Ever wanted to create a wavy, checkerboard pattern in Adobe Illustrator? This unique design can add a dynamic touch to your artwork, making it stand out from the crowd. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to create this captivating pattern with ease. Let's dive in!
Before we start, ensure you have Adobe Illustrator CC installed on your computer. While older versions might not have all the tools we'll use, you can still follow along and adapt the techniques to your available features. Now, let's begin creating your wavy checkerboard pattern!
Setting Up Your Document
First, open Adobe Illustrator and create a new document. For a standard checkerboard pattern, an artboard size of 800x800 pt is suitable. You can always adjust this later to fit your specific project.
Next, create a new layer by clicking on the "New Layer" icon in the Layers panel. Name this layer "Checkerboard" for easy reference later. We'll be working on this layer for the duration of this tutorial.
Creating the Checkerboard Pattern
The checkerboard pattern is composed of alternating dark and light squares. To create this, we'll use the Rectangle tool (M) and the Fill and Stroke panels.
Designing a Checkerboard Square
Using the Rectangle tool (M), draw a small square on your artboard. For this example, set the dimensions to 20pt x 20pt. The exact size doesn't matter; we'll adjust it later.
With the square selected, go to the Fill panel and choose a light color. For this tutorial, let's use the color code #FFFFFF. Then, set the strokes to 0pt in the Stroke panel to remove unwanted outlines. This square will be the light part of our checkerboard.
Creating the Dark Square
While still on your checked layer, duplicate the light square (Ctrl + C then Ctrl + F). In the Fill panel, change the color to a dark shade. For this tutorial, use the color code #333333. Your artboard should now have one light square and one dark square.
Select both squares and hit Ctrl + G to group them together. This will create the basic building block for your checkerboard pattern.
Repetition and Wavy Transformation
Now that we have our checkerboard square, it's time to make this pattern repeat and create the wavy effect. For this, we'll use the Pattern Options panel and the Envelope Distort tool.
Creating the Repeating Pattern
Select your grouped checkerboard square and go to Object > Pattern > Make Pattern. In the Pattern Options panel, set the pattern name to "Checkerboard" and adjust the width and height to the size of your artboard, i.e., 800pt. Click on the patterned artboard to close the panel.
Your pattern should now fill the entire artboard, but it's still flat. Next, we'll add those engaging waves!
Applying the Wavy Effect
Select your entire patterned artboard and go to Effect > Warp > Arc (Up). To maintain a subtle, dynamic wave, set the Arc Amount to 6%. You can adjust this later, so don't worry if it's not perfect yet. Your pattern should now have a slight wave to it.
Finally, to lock in this effect, go to Object > Expand Appearance. Your wavy checkerboard pattern is now a permanent part of your artwork!
Congratulations! You've just created a captivating wavy checkerboard pattern in Adobe Illustrator. This unique pattern can be used in various ways, fromacées and patterns to intricate backgrounds. As you explore Adobe Illustrator further, you'll find endless possibilities to customize this pattern and create stunning artworks. Happy designing!