Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

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Adobe Illustrator is my favourite tool for creating fun and cute character designs. With just a few simple shapes, a mix of gradient colours and a few shadows here and there you can build some great looking illustrations. Heres a step by step walkthrough of the process used to create a cool Panda character, from the basic outlines through to the detailed fnal design.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

The character well be building today started out as a mockup of a series of random shapes quickly put together in Illustrator. This provides the foundation upon which multiple gradients and colours can be overlaid to build up a recognisable character. Then, when everything is coming together and looking how it should, a few extra touches in the form of shadows can really help add that extra level of depth and realism. Heres how its all done from the very start

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Open up Adobe Illustrator and create a new document. Draw a circle onto the artboard, then drag the topmost point downwards with the Direct Selection Tool to squash the circle slightly.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

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Draw another circle, this time a little smaller to represent the nose. Drag the topmost point of this circle to also squash the circle into an irregular shape.

Add a couple of perfectly round circles to fesh out the muzzle area, ensuring they meet in the centre.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

A range of circles can build up the eye area. Draw a large overall circle, then copy (CMD+C) and paste in place (CMD+F), then scale downwards while holding Shift and Alt. Use a circle for the outline of the eye, the pupil, then a couple of smaller highlights.

Use more circles to build an ear, using the shortcut CMD+Shift+[ to send the circles to the back of the stack. Copy the ear and eye, refect (Object > Transform > Refect) and position on the opposite side.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

The main body of the Panda originates from a large rounded rectangle. Press the upwards cursor key repeatedly to maximise the corner radius.

We dont want the rounded corner on the lower portion, so draw a temporary shape to use along with the Minus Front option from the pathfnder tool.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Use the Pen Tool to then add an extra point in the centre of the lower edge. Then drag this point downwards while holding CMD with the Pen tool (this temporarily switches to the Direct Selection Tool).

Hold the Alt key, then drag outwards from the point. This will create bezier handles that will allow you to tweak the curvature of the bottom edge.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Draw a small circle elsewhere on the artboard, then position a temporary rectangle covering half the shape. Use the Minus Front option from the Pathfnder palette to cut away the shape.

Position the two semi-circles as feet, then draw the outline of the legs with rough clicks of the Pen tool. Match up the top corners with the edges of the body, then press CMD+Shift+[ to send to back.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Paste in another copy of the semi-circle, but this time rotate it by 180 degrees and scale it up slightly for use as a paw.

Use the Pen tool to roughly draw the rest of the arm. Drag the bezier curves to add a fowing curved edge.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Duplicate the arm, refect then position it on the opposite side. Send this arm to the back so it creeps out from behind the body.

With the outlines complete, its time to add some colour. Clear the stroke from the head, then replace the fll with a white to grey gradient. Adjust the settings to Radial and bring the white slider close to the grey to maximise the amount of white. Use the Gradient tool to drag, squash and position the gradient accurately over the head to give the desired colouring.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Continue replacing the fll of all the individual elements with gradients. Any black areas should use a dark grey to black gradient and the angles adjusted as necessary with the Gradient tool.

The two circles that make up the muzzle can be adjusted so that a gradient fows to grey to transparency to give a subtle effect. Adjust the angles so that the gradient starts from the centre then fows outwards.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Draw in a few extra details such as a few circles to represent whiskers. Position them on each side of the muzzle with a mid-grey fll.

Duplicate a circle from the muzzle and nudge inwards slightly. Paste in another copy of the circle and use this as a tool along with the pathfnder to cut away the excess. This leaves a thin crescent that can be flled with a dark grey to emphasise the mouth.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Position a copy of the crescent on the opposite side, and fnish off the facial area with a couple of black circles to represent the nostrils.

Add a similar white to grey gradient to the body, adjusting the angles as necessary. Also add an Inner Glow (Effect > Stylize > Inner Glow) of grey to extend the shading around the edges of the body, so that the outlines stays prominent.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

A simple circle with a soft and subtle grey to transparent gradient can quickly create a chest area for the Panda.

Fill all the limbs with the black to dark grey gradient, adjusting the angles so that the gradients fow vertically.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

All the colour is now in place and the character is recognisable, but theres some fnishing touches that can really help the design stand out. Add a soft Drop Shadow (Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow) to the outline of the eyes and the nose. Use subtle settings of 30% opacity, 0 offset and 1mm blur.

Duplicate the outline of the head and squash slightly. Fill it with black then add a Gaussian Blur (Effect > Blur > Gaussian Blur) with settings of around 30 pixels.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Press CMD+[ repeatedly until the black object appears under the head, but above the body. Reduce the Transparency right down to 10% to create a subtle shadow.

Repeat the process with the arm and hand graphics. Merge the two shapes with the Pathfnder tool, fll with pure black, add a Gaussian blur, adjust the stacking order then reduce the opacity.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

These little shading techniques really help add depth to the character, allowing certain elements to jump from the screen.

Use the Pen Tool to draw a rough branch shape from the Pandas paw.

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Fill the branch with a green gradient, then add ribs along its length with rough shapes with the Pen Tool.

Continuing with the Pen Tool, draw some curved shapes to represent a few leaves. Click and drag the frst point, followed by a single click at the tip. Click the point once again to reset the curves, then complete the path back at the start.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Copy the whole branch of bamboo, merge together, fll with black, add the Gaussian Blur then position it as a shadow across the Pandas body.

A simple radial gradient in the background soon renders our cool little Panda character complete! What started off as a few basic shapes is now a full-on character complete with variations of shade and tone.

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

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Written by Chris Spooner

Chris Spooner is a designer who has a love for creativity and enjoys experimenting with various techniques in both print and web. Follow Chris' daily design links on Twitter, and be sure to check out his second blog over at Line25.com.

More posts like this:

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57 Comments
Julien L
Nice tut! Really cute character.

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March 22, 2010 at 8:07 am

Callum Chapman
me a bit of Kung Fu Panda great movie! :D

March 22, 2010 at 8:17 am

Excellent outcome Chris, bookmarked for future round-ups! :) Reminds

Callum Chapman

March 22, 2010 at 8:18 am

P.S. Not sure if you know this, but when you submit a comment it takes you to a page that doesnt display and you gotta hit the back button to come back?

Chris Spooner

March 24, 2010 at 9:19 am

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Thanks Callum. It looks like its a side effect to the caching plugin. As soon as the cache is cleared it works again. The interval is currently set to 60mins, will try reducing it.

Ben

March 31, 2010 at 12:53 pm

sorry to be the bearer of bad news but its still doing it (31st march 2010 ) excellent vector tut though much thnks

Mitch
Really nice, thank you Chris :)

March 22, 2010 at 8:49 am

Mariel
Its really cool Panda! Bravo! Amazing

March 22, 2010 at 9:23 am

as sahar
i love it!! thanks!!

March 22, 2010 at 9:38 am

Develop
character! Thanks

March 22, 2010 at 12:22 pm

Nice one going to have a go at adapting this to make a zombie

darryl brocklesby
results for this.

March 22, 2010 at 4:10 pm

Thanks for this tutorial I must admit I did enjoy the drawing and the end

adelmo83

March 22, 2010 at 4:32 pm

genial, muy bueno este tutorial, tiene interesantes tips, gracias

Marouen
jaime bien ce style merci pour ce job

March 22, 2010 at 4:32 pm

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Joefrey Mahusay
Great tutorial, I will try this one!

March 22, 2010 at 5:47 pm

online mzik dinle

good tutorial very nice mascot !

March 22, 2010 at 7:32 pm

youresorandom
Jealous of your skills!, very neat design!

March 22, 2010 at 8:14 pm

cssrex
mine. Thanks

March 22, 2010 at 8:51 pm

Hey I made it! Very Nice however your Pandas face a bit different from

Manuela

March 23, 2010 at 9:36 am

Wow! I love this tutorial! Thank you so much! :)

vilao
nice tutu!!! good work. thanks

March 23, 2010 at 3:31 pm

billy
Your panda would make a brilliant mascot Excellent tut !

March 23, 2010 at 9:31 pm

Josh
Thanks for thisVery useful!

March 23, 2010 at 11:16 pm

Artem

March 24, 2010 at 2:48 am

tanx Chris.. if i had a steady income yer site would be my fst choice as a member site.. im currently a study in pharmacy wit a hobby in web and graphic desing

Doink @ Designioustimes.com

March 24, 2010 at 9:22 am

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

This looks great! Gratz! Can i add a few things ? Give him a facial expression. Keep in mind the real panda behavior: slow, calm, passive. Give him a chillaxed expression :D

Chris Spooner
giving it a go!

March 24, 2010 at 1:46 pm

Thanks for the comments everyone. Glad to hear people are enjoying

Michelle

March 25, 2010 at 4:43 am

Great post! I love the step-by-step explanation!

Patricia

March 25, 2010 at 5:55 pm

That pandahas some sass and I like sass. Good Job!

Nick

March 25, 2010 at 11:31 pm

Great post. I especially like your use of subtle gradients to add a bit more depth. I always seem to learn something new from your posts good stuff

Chamelon Code Ltd

MUy Buen Tutorial

March 26, 2010 at 3:58 am

Chameleon Code
MUy buena explicacion

March 26, 2010 at 4:00 am

Andrew P
Hey Chris,

March 26, 2010 at 4:30 am

Thanks heaps for this. Enjoyed making it. I turned it into a card for my 4 year old niece. Best design blog around!!! Thanks again

DidE
Thanks a lot, nice work Chris.

March 26, 2010 at 11:43 am

This is my panda http://www.fickr.com/photos/dide/4463914281/ Looks great! hehehehe (its my frst illustrator project)

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Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

ashwin
perfect

March 27, 2010 at 9:41 am

George Barlow

March 27, 2010 at 4:08 pm

Awesome tutorial! Looks so simple to do but creates an awesome result!

Yanno

March 27, 2010 at 7:52 pm

Excellent tutorial Chris! This was my frst animated character ever made in illustrator and it made me hungry to do some more. My result for comparison http://www.fickr.com/photos/_yanno/4467833188/

Vincent Klaiber
more of these!

March 28, 2010 at 1:39 pm

Exellent Tutorial! Looking forward to your next one! Cant wait to see

John Yorke

March 28, 2010 at 5:58 pm

Awesome tutorial Chris! This was my frst time using Illustrator properly and just doing this tutorial has me hooked. A great lesson for beginners. I made a Mr and Mrs version, planning to give it to my girlfriend for her birthday printed on card. Ill credit you on the card Chris!! My attempt: http://www.fickr.com/photos/48872074@N08/4469749961/sizes/o/in/set72157623720668222/

Birgit

March 28, 2010 at 9:02 pm

great tutorial, youre so good! I wonder how you can accomplish so much with so little, it seems like you can do in 5 minutes what would take me hours :D thanks a lot :)

Nelspruit Web Design

think I will start with a Tiger!

March 29, 2010 at 8:47 am

Thanks for this, cant wait to start designing my very own characters,

Nelspruit Web Design

March 29, 2010 at 8:48 am

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Thanks for this, cant wait to start my own characters!

Steve

March 29, 2010 at 2:35 pm

Hey Chris, thanks for the great tutorial. It was really helpfull getting into illustrator. You make some great and helpfull stuff. You can check out mine version if you like. thanks a lot!

best articles

March 29, 2010 at 2:41 pm

woowthats good tuts.. i am new to illustrator..hope i will learn it

Michal Kozak
Chris, this panda is amazing :) !

March 30, 2010 at 2:50 am

Read the tut and started to making my own panda immediately! Absolutely love it.

tahir
thats really nice :)

March 30, 2010 at 10:21 am

PSDDude
Simple Cute Funny !

March 31, 2010 at 12:32 pm

danielle
i hate it its so hard so complikated!!!!!!!!!!

March 31, 2010 at 5:36 pm

Vinod
I like it. but pandas eyes look not to good.

April 1, 2010 at 9:36 am

Zabava
Nice tutorial thank you for sharing!

April 2, 2010 at 5:15 pm

http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/tutorials/create-a-cool-vector-panda-character-in-illustrator[]2102/91/40 52:51:40 .

Create a Cool Vector Panda Character in Illustrator

Uldens
Hey!

April 3, 2010 at 11:51 pm

Thank you for the great tutorial, I really enjoyed it! Here is my result: http://www.fickr.com/photos/uldis/4487475553/

rodolfo

April 5, 2010 at 2:02 am

Muy buen tutorial se aprende bastante! felicitaciones!!!!

natasha
very informative.liked it

April 5, 2010 at 4:58 pm

matt

April 5, 2010 at 10:30 pm

Thanks Chris, excellent tutorial. Im just starting with Illustrator and fnding your tips SO helpful. Keep them coming :)

catherina
Really nice. Excellent character!

April 7, 2010 at 10:44 am

Color Experts
Very funny tutorial actually. Thanks

April 7, 2010 at 11:59 am

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Hi, I'm Chris Spooner, the guy behind Blog.SpoonGraphics. This site acts as both my personal design

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