Quick tip for using the Gradient Mesh tool in Illustrator 8

We know the Gradient Mesh tool can be a bit tricky at times, but we have a little tip that may help you get the most out of this tool. We recommend using gradual color variations with most artwork. To do this, find one color you'd like to use and add it to your Swatches palette. Then, drag this color onto your Fill color and use the CMYK sliders in your Color palette to make the color lighter and darker. Add several different color variations to your Swatches palette. When you add a mesh line, click each point along that mesh line and choose the same color for each point from your Swatches palette. Now, continue to add mesh lines, spacing each line apart so there is a gradual color shift. When you add a new mesh line, choose a different color shade from the ones you added to the Swatches palette. Change the color of each point on this mesh line just as you did with your first mesh line.

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