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Fish body

I want to create scales running horizontally across this shape such that they gradually reduced/increase in size towards the extremities laterally.

How would I best achieve this? Create a pattern swatch & then use the mesh tool to work it in to the shape or create a pattern brush? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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2 Answers 2

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A pattern fill with a mesh distortion is about your only option other than manually creating the variations.

enter image description here

Shape -> Apply Pattern fill -> Object > Envelope Distort > Make with Mesh -> move the mesh points around.

(Note best to do this on a copy of the original shape. That way you will still have the original without the mesh if needed.)

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  • Hey Scott, could you please explain how to make this? I've used AI for a long time but I have no clue how to use a mesh to distort a pattern. Thanks!
    – Vincent
    Commented Mar 24, 2017 at 9:27
  • Cheers buddy thanks for the nod. I thought as much. Have a great day.
    – Gerard29
    Commented Mar 24, 2017 at 12:32
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    I don't believe you @Vincent .. but I added an explanation.
    – Scott
    Commented Mar 24, 2017 at 12:58
  • You better believe me on this one, Scott 😃. Before I read your answer, I never even knew it was possible!
    – Vincent
    Commented Mar 25, 2017 at 10:25
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What about using a scaled-down version of your original shape and specify a few steps using the Blend Tool? enter image description here

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  • Nice off the page idea Franz worth investigating thanks for taking time to give me the idea. Enjoy the WE. G
    – Gerard29
    Commented Mar 25, 2017 at 15:07

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