How to Use the Gradient Mesh Tool in Adobe Illustrator

Gradient Meshes allow for very flexible and detailed application of color to objects. A Gradient Mesh creates a grid inside the object that follows the contour. Color can then be applied to grid points, and different colors between grid points feather into each other.

This function is found in Illustrator CS5, CS6, and CC.

1. Select the object, then go to Object > Create Gradient Mesh.
2. Set the number of Rows and Columns. Check Preview, if necessary, so you can see the grid, then click OK.
3. The grid has anchor points at the ends and intersections of the grid lines. Choose the Direct Selection Tool and click one of the anchor points and you'll that they are Connector Points with Bezier handles. This means you can adjust the contour of the grid lines, if necessary.
4. Select the Gradient Mesh Tool and make sure that Fill is active. Click on one of the grid points in the object, then click a color in the Swatches Panel.
5. Continue selecting different grid points and applying color. Be careful around the edges. If you click the path where there is no grid point, you'll add another grid line.
6. Note that the Gradient Mesh Tool only allows one grid point at a time to be selected. If you want to apply the same color to more than one grid point, use the Direct Selection Tool instead. After clicking the first grid point, hold down the Shift key to select additional ones.