How Can I Create Beveled Edges On A Logo?

[sconwell]

Hello,

I have a client's logo that is a flat PMS color, that I created in Illustrator (CS2), and I need to add a beveled edge to it.

I had "tweeked" it in PhotoShop to give it some dimension, by using the "Bevel and Emboss" effect, which my client LOVES. Now, he needs a vector file version of this logo to send to a sign company. Is there any way to create beveled edges in Illustrator-CS2?

Any help would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[apepp]

...as you are aware illustrator doesn't have straight layer effects to hand, so you could, depending on how the design is, import a greyscale bevel from photoshop and colorize it in illustator...

...or build it using an expanded stroke with a gradient fill (linear), then you could feather it or a shape above it for a smooth edge if required. If you do feather ensure the raster effects setting is set to high resolution (300 to 350dpi) and to preserve spot colors (effect > document raster effects setting)...

...the other option might be to introduce an opacity mask to create some smoothness, like this, although do note black ink is introduced on here as well:

http://www.zen63258.zen.co.uk/tek/bevel.jpg

Andrew

 

[apepp]

...also look into the graphic style library, there are a few in there but you will need to modify them to suit your purpose, that means running:

object > expand appearance

Andrew

 

[apepp]

...to get a graphic style library go to window > graphic style libraries...

Andrew

 

[apepp]

...feel free to download my CS2 file here to inspect:

http://www.zen63258.zen.co.uk/tek/bevel.ai

...also a layered PDF too:

http://www.zen63258.zen.co.uk/tek/bevel.pdf

Andrew

 

[apepp]

...if you go for the import from photoshop route, you can convert layer styles to layers:

layer > layer style > create layer

...the style elements are then separated off, it is therefore plausible to bring that into illustrator as PSD and overlay a black with multiply transparency for a shadow...

Andrew

 

[apepp]

...forgot to mention the above PSD import route will end up raster dot for vector that falls beneath the PSD, but worth mentioning for possible future use on other projects...

Andrew

 

[sconwell]

Thank you.. I will have to ingest all of your great options. Thank you, and hope I don't have too many questions. Cool!

 

[ERIXWORX]

I have used a clumsy process to do this in the past (I'm self-taught, and thus do things the difficult way)

Add outlines, convert them to objects, break the various 'sides' apart so you can then use gradients on them or color them independently.
I work for a sign shop, so if you have sign-specific output issues/questions I could help.
good luck!
-E

'There is no LEASH LAW for the IMAGINATION!'

 

[ERIXWORX]

...here's an example of my method; the bottom bevel is one piece with a gradient adjusted to each dip and curve.
-E

'There is no LEASH LAW for the IMAGINATION!'
myspace.com/erixworx