Illustrator
How to Create an Abstract Pattern in Adobe Illustrator
Want to create an eye-catching abstract pattern in Adobe Illustrator — one that looks like a spinning flower or sun shape?
In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to use simple shapes, color, and the Radial Repeat effect to make a dynamic design that works perfectly as a background, poster, or graphic element.
Final Result
Van idee tot eindresultaat
Step 1: Create a Colored Background
Start with a new document in Adobe Illustrator and fill the background with your desired color.
This will be the base of your design, so choose a hue that contrasts nicely with your pattern.
Step 2: Draw a Triangle
Select the Polygon Tool and click once on your artboard.
Set the number of sides to 3 to create a perfect triangle.
Step 3: Add Color to the Triangle
Fill your triangle with a color of your choice and place it in the center of the artboard.
You can use the Align Tools to make sure it’s perfectly centered.
Step 4: Create a Radial Repeat
Make sure the small dot (the rotation point) is placed exactly in the center of your artboard.
You can do this by dragging the inner circle of the Repeat panel toward the middle.
Step 5: Position the Rotation Point
Make sure the small dot (the rotation point) is placed exactly in the center of your artboard.
You can do this by dragging the inner circle of the Repeat panel toward the middle.
Step 6: Adjust the Number of Copies
Use the small triangular arrow ( ^ ) next to the pattern to add or remove copies.
Play around with the settings until you achieve the perfect level of symmetry.
Step 7: Add a Twist Effect
Go to Effect → Distort & Transform → Twist.
Adjust the degree of rotation to add movement and create a smooth, hypnotic effect in your design.
Step 8: Preview the Result Without Guides
Go to View → Trim View.
This hides all guides and overlapping shapes so you can clearly see the final visual result.
Step 9: Refine Your Composition
Adjust the size of your pattern if needed to better fill the corners of your artboard or to achieve a more balanced layout.
You’re Done!
You’ve created a unique, abstract radial pattern in Adobe Illustrator.
Experiment with colors, shapes, and twist settings to discover endless creative variations.