Envelope Distort in Adobe Illustrator is a powerful feature that allows you to warp and distort objects in a variety of ways, giving you a high level of creative control. It's like bending, stretching, and molding your artwork to fit into a new shape or form.
Here's a breakdown of what Envelope Distort does and how it works:
What Envelope Distort Does :
- Warps and Distorts: Envelope Distort lets you manipulate objects by fitting them into a shape or grid, called an "envelope." This allows you to create a wide range of distortions, from subtle curves to extreme warping.
- Three Methods: There are three main ways to use Envelope Distort:
- Make with Warp: This uses preset warp styles like arc, bulge, or flag to distort your object.
- Make with Mesh: This creates a grid (mesh) over your object, and you can manipulate the individual points of the mesh to distort the artwork.
- Make with Top Object: This uses the shape of a top object to define the envelope, allowing you to fit your artwork into that shape.
How to Use Envelope Distort :
- Select Object(s): Select the object(s) you want to distort.
- Choose Envelope Distort: Go to Object > Envelope Distort and choose one of the three methods:
- Make with Warp: Choose a warp style and adjust the settings.
- Make with Mesh: Set the number of rows and columns for the mesh.
- Make with Top Object: Make sure the shape you want to use as the envelope is above the object you want to distort.
- Adjust and Refine: Use the Direct Selection Tool (white arrow) to adjust the points and handles of the envelope to fine-tune the distortion.
Common Uses for Envelope Distort :
- Creating Perspective: You can use Envelope Distort to create the illusion of perspective on flat objects, making them appear three-dimensional.
- Wrapping Text: Envelope Distort is great for wrapping text around curved surfaces or fitting it into unique shapes.
- Distorting Logos and Graphics: You can use it to distort logos or graphics for creative effects or to fit them into specific layouts.
- Creating Mockups: It's often used in mockups to make designs appear as if they are printed on curved or irregular surfaces.
