One area of Adobe InDesign that sets it apart from any other layout program is Transparent Effects. In this tutorial, I'll be discussing how it's possible to cut a window right through your page to a beautiful picture below using Layers, Custom Grids, soft Drop Shadows and the Pathfinder palette.

On average, I get one call per month from artists with questions about Art Brushes. The conversation usually goes something like this – "I know that there are a lot of Art Brushes that come with Illustrator," the artist says, "but I can’t seem to find exactly what I need."

In my last tutorial, I discussed "Creating a Window Through Your Brochure Cover." The Steps involved in creating the die cut look of the layout, resulted in some interesting feedback from readers. One particular reader's comments stood out.

Seeing text standing up straight all the time can get boring. Learn how to rotate individual characters and make them have a little fun!

Editor's Pick in Vector Graphics, June 2006
This is a nice tutorial for anyone who is wanting to try to recreate the Adobe bridge icon. Just follow the easy step by step instructions and you will be amazed at how easy it is.

Create the text:
Create the stroke:
Select the text with the selection tool (black arrow):
Go to Object > Expand:

If you use Illustrator regularly, no doubt one of your first steps when working on a new document is to set up your guides. The process, though, can take some time, especially if you like to create a grid made up of guides or want your guides perfectly centered.

In our last installment dealing with brushes in Adobe Illustrator, we looked at methods for generating Pattern Brushes from vector elements. But this week we'll leave the patterned strokes behind and delve into the messier realm of Art Brushes.

Use the Type tool, type in "3D Logo". Go to Effect >Warp > Arc and apply the following setting:
Then go to Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel and apply the setting as shown in the image below. You can drag around the cube to set the X,Y,Z rotation values. Set the Extrude Depth to 20pt.

Create a rectangular path and fill it with blue gradient.
Create another path with Blue-Black gradient and select Screen Blending Mode. This will create a lighter blue gradient shade. If your color setting is CMYK, make sure the black is full black (C,M,Y,K=100).