Initiate Illustrator and establish a fresh document (Ctrl/Cmd + N) with an artboard size of 500x500px.
Commence by crafting a vector path for the 3D Revolve effect. Utilize the Pen Tool (P) to draw the specified path.
Navigate to Effect > 3D > Revolve to adjust the hat’s shape settings in the Revolve options window.
Tweak the settings until the desired outcome is achieved, then confirm with OK to apply the effect.
Proceed to edit the shape by expanding the appearance (Object > Expand Appearance) for further refinement.
Utilize the Pen Tool to trace the reference shape, eliminating unnecessary anchor points for a cleaner design.
Refine the shape by creating a new one based on the reference, providing greater control over the illustration process.In the Layers Panel, secure the reference 3D hat layer to prevent accidental movement, and create a new layer above it for the actual hat design.
Use the Pen Tool to draw the lower part of the hat, typically referred to as the crown.
Accept imperfections in the tracing, as they can add character to the design.Next, craft the upper part of the hat, known as the brim, ensuring proper perspective with the Pen Tool.
Utilize the Direct Selection Tool (A) to manually adjust the brim’s anchor points for a smooth edge.
Create a hole for the magician to wear the hat by drawing a yellow shape over the brim.
Eliminate the reference object created in Step 1 to focus on the unique shape we’ve developed.Apply color gradients to bring the magician’s hat to life. Open the Gradient Panel (Window > Gradient) to begin.
Simulate felt fabric on the lower part of the hat with a dark linear gradient.
Apply the same gradient to the brim, adjusting the highlight for realism.
Use a radial gradient for the hole to simulate light reflecting off the fabric.The hat is beginning to take shape, but it lacks depth. We will address this in the following steps.First, create an edge on the hat’s brim by duplicating and nudging the brim shape, then applying a linear gradient.
Repeat the process for the inner part of the hat to enhance complexity.Select the hole and duplicate it twice, adjusting and applying a gradient to create a highlight.
This simple element adds depth and interest to the illustration.Create a ribbon shape with the Pen Tool and apply a gradient to it, experimenting with different colors and highlights.
Intersect the duplicate crown with the ribbon shape, applying a gradient for a realistic look.
Consider adding light reflections to the hat to increase visual interest.
Intersect the duplicate crown with the reflection shape and bring it to the front.
Set the reflection’s fill to white with a low opacity for a subtle effect.
Create shadows for the ribbon and brim to add depth.
Repeat the process for the brim and add a shadow to the floor for completion.
The magician’s hat is now complete, but a complete magician’s ensemble requires a magic wand.
Use the Rounded Rectangle Tool to create the wand shape and apply gradients for a realistic appearance.
Group the wand parts and position it against the hat.
Create a shadow for the wand by duplicating and adjusting it, then applying the appropriate color and arrangement.
Finally, add a ground shadow to complete the composition.
