Illustrator background gradient

Question

Hi everyone I'm trying to add a gradient to a design. I'm wanting to basically keep the inside gradient and get rid of the outside (image 1).

I've tried lots of different ways using a clipping mask. My process:

• Grouped image
• Made mask
• Selected right window in Transparency
• In Transparency unchecked 'Clip', checked 'Invert Mask'
• Pasted in colour background over grouped design
• Clicked grey space next to image

In my second image you can see something has applied but all I get is low opacity gradient of some sort (image 2).

Answer 1

The mask is not made correctly.

Apply the mask to the gradient square. Must contain the drawing in black and a bottom white frame bigger than the gradient area. With this you get the gradient "perforated" with the design. If you want it reverse, click Invert mask.

This is the mask: a white square on the bottom and the black drawing on top:

But for this you don't need a mask, select the drawing > Menu Object > Compound Path > Make > and apply the gradient fill to the new compound path