Low poly art would usually be made with 3D applications such as Cinema 4D to build three dimensional models, but we can create similar styles in two dimensions directly in Illustrator. Follow this tutorial to create a cool low poly mountain illustration using vector paths. We’ll add gradients to simulate a 3D effect then take the design into Photoshop to polish it up with cool textures.
Here’s the final artwork we’ll be creating. The polygonal mountain will be created using Illustrator’s accurate vector tools then brought into Photoshop for some texturing to really bring it to life.
Create a new Illustrator document and draw a rough mountain outline using the Pen tool. Make single clicks to generate straight lines between each point and follow a curved path for the bottom edge to help with its 3D appearance later.
When using the “Divide” option with the pathfinder, is there any way to avoid adding extra lines to the shape?
you are amazing chris !!!
A really good tutorial and the finished design looks brilliant. Nice one Chris!
Great tutorial! thanks Chris
I’m kind of succer to this style – thanks
It’s amazing, thank you for the tut :)
This is a great effect Chris, thanks!
Great stuff, thanks for the tutorial!
Chris, as always – another awesome tutorial. I love this type of artwork, but previously only did it with construction paper :P
I’m getting better with Illustrator thanks to stuff like this!
This is a great tutorial! Thanks for sharing!
you did excellent work with few steps and i must try now because you describe in detail. cool work Chris
Nice tutorial! Love the Color burn texture effect.
For some reason when I group the mountain some of the lines disappears… \:
Hey Chris,
Thank you so much for sharing an awesome tutorial, I’ve used this technique and made some really amazing graphics.
You’ve lost touch with modern design Chris, your recent tutorials are laughable..
Thats not a low poly design, it’s a poor imitation.
Mike’s tutorials and design portfolio blow everyone out of the water. Follow him to victory.
P.S. Awesome tut, Chris. Thanks!
While I do not agree with the tone, the man has a solid point. This is shite. Shading is inconsistent, the spray paint doesn’t add anything and the end result is not low-poly, it’s just something that wants to fit in with the cool kids but fails to do so.