The Basics

I know you're anxious to jump right to the part where we actually make something using the mesh, but first it's important to recognize the various parts of the gradient mesh. As shown in the image below, the parts of the gradient mesh are:

Mesh Lines: These are straight (or curved) lines which can be used to change the shape of the object or the direction of the color. Mesh lines are added in a few different ways which we will learn about later. They are moved using their control points just like moving other lines in Illustrator.

Mesh Points: Mesh points are the basis of the mesh. They control where color is placed, what direction it goes in, and the overall shape of the mesh. Mesh points are also the place where the mesh lines intersect . At these points you can add color that will radiate out from the point to the surrounding parts of the mesh. You can select, move and delete these mesh points which will move the color around throughout the mesh or alter the shape of the mesh.

Mesh Patch: This is the section within the four mesh points. You can add color to the mesh patch that will radiate out from within to the surrounding areas.

Control Lines: These are the lines which control the curve of the mesh lines, and the amount of color applied to both a patch and a mesh point. These lines are selected and moved like all other curves and lines in Illustrator.

We will go into how color is added to the mesh, and moving the control points and lines later in the tutorial.

At this point, let's get started! We are going to be making the following image using only the gradient mesh:
(Click on the image below to open it in a new window if needed for reference throughout the tutorial)

Get comfortable at your computer and click the link below to begin when ready.

Page 2: Creating the shape for the mesh