How to Add Texture in Adobe Illustrator

by Kelcy May 10, 2018May 9, 2022

Add Texture in Adobe Illustrator with a few simple tips. The possibilities are endless. When many think of adding texture, they think of Photoshop. How do you add texture in Illustrator though?

This illustration of a Rolls-Royce interior is an example. When it came to adding the woodgrain, I was unsure of what to do. So I played around and came up with a great solution that I want to share. Bookmark this post for future reference.

Effects Add Texture in Adobe Illustrator

First go to the “Effects” in Illustrator. The different effects are categorized by Illustrator Effects and Photoshop Effects. Use both of them interchangeably. Experiment with each type to get what you are looking for. The above examples are Photoshop Effects built right into Illustrator, which is unexpected.

Effects Sliders

You are able to move the sliders. Use them to change the parameters of each individual effect as well. The sliders will change the sizes of each effect. Don’t forget to experiment using different colors as well. The “wood grain” on the car can be adapted to resemble the wood in different cars.

Patchwork Effect

See the above example which mimics “Ancient Ruins”. I used the Photoshop Effect Texture: Patchwork. Change the size of the squares and decide the amount of relief you want visible. That will determine how ancient the “ruins” look.

These are just a few examples on how to add texture in Adobe Illustrator. When you use these effects, the options are endless.

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