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Pattern diversions

7

Warning: This is a time-sucker. I can’t be responsible for the loss of productivity that will ensue after you read this post!

I stumbled across an interesting “effect” today while trying to accomplish something else entirely.

1. Select the Polygon Frame Tool, and then click on your page.

2. Fill in the dialog box as shown below:

3. Give the polygon a fill color of none and a stroke color (I used red).

4. Assign a 1 pt stroke weight to the polygon.

5. Change the Stroke Type to Wavy.

6. Now experiment with the weight of the stroke. Also, experiment with changing the stroke alignment from Center to Outside in the Stroke panel. Have fun!

4 pt stroke, center stroke alignment

7 pt stroke, center stroke alignment

12 pt stroke, outside stroke alignment

18 pt stroke, center stroke alignment

18 pt stroke, outside stroke alignment

23 pt stroke, center stroke alignment

Keith Gilbert is a design consultant, developer, educator, speaker, and author. His work has taken him throughout North America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. During his 35+ year career his clients have included Adobe, Apple, Target, Oracle, and the United Nations. He is the author of several popular titles for LinkedIn Learning, Adobe Press, and CreativePro. Find him at gilbertconsulting.com and on Twitter @gilbertconsult
  • COOL! You’re having too much fun again, Keith.

    If y’all like that, here are some other fun articles:
    Using NINA Scripts for Spirograph Patterns in InDesign
    Making Snowflakes with InDesign
    Making Patterns in InDesign

  • Masoud says:

    Excellent and Fantastic, thx a alot

  • what a cool effect! very addicting

  • Kelly Vaughn says:

    Another fun trick: duplicate a few sunbursts, the change the color to various shades or orange and yellow, and play with the blending modes. You can get make it look like flames!

  • Tim Wenger says:

    Don’t know if I’d have a use for it, but fun to play with.

  • masiha2012 says:

    Just draw a star with polygon tools and apply corner effects script several times with different options and finally you will have a beautiful Spirograph :)

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