Ribbon Banner

**salaam** · 31 July 2007, 04:36 PM

A ribbon banner made with a double blend of 3 identical curved lines.
The lines were altered separately after being blended.

**DAL** · 31 July 2007, 07:02 PM

Pretty but not very smooth and satiny like ribbon.

**raynerj1** · 31 July 2007, 10:41 PM

NEat effect... Now can you figure out how to convert the blend into one shape without loosing the details? Those 500 step blends can be murder on many machines.

**salaam** · 01 August 2007, 10:40 AM

Thanks DAL, thanks raynerj1,

I have reduced the blend steps to 70 (amongst other changes).
I just gave up yesterday after having to keep waiting too long for the blend processing.
The problem is that there are so many variables for just the colour and texture olone when using this technique.
This 3D blending is a whole new world and I know I still have so much to learn.

**handrawn** · 01 August 2007, 10:48 AM

looks great! - original file definitely a bit sluggish on my machine too ...

**salaam** · 01 August 2007, 11:44 AM

Thanks Steve, the file is easier to manage now.

Here is another tip:
My banner uses a 'curve' to create a slight wave in the vertical axis.
For the banner print, I copied the line, which makes that curve, to create a 'mould':

● Reduce the image to a 'wire frame' (reducing the 'set quality settings') hold down the [control] key while you left click on the 'curve' line (positioned towards the lower centre).
● Copy this line and paste it elsewhere (set quality settings set to full).
● 'Clone' this line and move it in a straight line along its x-axis (to the length of the banner print area, approx).
● Using the 'freehand tool', join these curved lines with 2 new straight lines.
● Use the 'shape editor tool' to make these 2 horizontal lines curved, to suit the contour of the ribbon.
● Copy this shape (your new 'mould' or 'envelope').
● Select the text, shape or group ect. and go to the 'mould' tool.
● Use one of the clipboard icons to 'paste envelope' onto your selection.
● Position this onto the banner, size it and use the shape editor tool to make any final adjustments.

Anas

**DGehman** · 01 August 2007, 01:15 PM

Salaam, great info - but I lose you on the first step: "reduce the image..."

What image?

**salaam** · 01 August 2007, 01:48 PM

Originally Posted by DGehman

Salaam, great info - but I lose you on the first step: "reduce the image..."

What image?

In my case the boxed 'Khaleel's page' and the boxed 'welcome'.

**amoore** · 01 August 2007, 02:43 PM

Originally Posted by DAL

Pretty but not very smooth and satiny like ribbon.

Depends on the fabric of the ribbon. I thought Salaam's purple ribbon was grosgrain at first. When I looked at it again, it also reminded me of some partially transparent ribbons I've used.

OTOH, his ochre and blue ribbons look like they're made from a felted material. A big red ribbon like that has been going around my family's Christmas presents for years. (We recycle, especially when it comes to wrapping materials.

Some of that paper is nearly as old as I am. It's been ironed maaany times.