Convert Vector Graphics to Pixel Art in Adobe Illustrator

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore a quick method for transforming your vector graphics into pixel art using Adobe Illustrator. The process involves a few straightforward steps, which we will outline below.

First, let's set up our file:

1. File Setup:

   • Create three layers:
     • A locked dark background color. This is essential for the cleanup step.
     • A locked copy of your flame graphic on the left for reference.
     • An unlocked copy of the flame graphic on its own layer. This graphic should consist of three simple paths with three colors.

   You can find the file for this tutorial via the link in the description below.

2. Rasterize the Graphic:

   • Select your flame graphic and navigate to the Object menu.
   • Choose Rasterize.
     • Set Color Mode to RGB for bright colors.
     • Set Resolution to 300 (this is usually sufficient).
     • In the Anti-aliasing drop-down, select "None". This is critical to avoid unwanted transition colors.
   • Click OK. While it may seem that the graphic has changed, checking the layers palette confirms it has been transformed into a raster image.

3. Create Object Mosaic:

   • With the raster image selected, go to the Object menu and choose Create Object Mosaic.
   • Pay special attention to the Number of Tiles. For this example, set the width to 36 pixels and the height will auto-adjust.
   • Click the Use Ratio button to maintain proportions, then click OK.
   • The outcome will consist of a group of solid color squares. Open your layers panel, select the image, and hit Delete to isolate this group.

4. Ungroup the Tiles:

   • Select the squares group, return to the Object menu, and choose Ungroup. Now you can move the squares individually.

5. Cleanup with the Magic Wand Tool:

   • Select the Magic Wand Tool (shortcut Y).
   • Double-click the Magic Wand icon to adjust the tolerance (set it to 0 initially). Click on any white pixels to select and hit Delete on your keyboard.
   • The locked dark background will help you see any remaining white edges.
   • Change the layer color for better contrast if necessary.

6. Refine the Graphic:

   • Continue using the Magic Wand tool to remove unwanted colors. If needed, increase the tolerance slightly to select more pixels.
   • Use the Eyedropper Tool (shortcut I) to sample colors from your graphic and apply them to any incorrect pixels.
   • Repeat this process of cleaning up the colors iteratively until you achieve a consistent pixel art style.

7. Fixing Pixel Gaps:

   • Zoom in (shortcut Z) to handle small gaps.
   • Use the selection tool (shortcut V) to pick nearby pixels and hold Alt to drag them over to fill gaps.

8. Final Touches:

   • Once the cleanup is complete and you have adjusted any awkward gaps, your flame graphic will resemble a neat piece of pixel art that can be scaled or exported as a PNG.

This procedure outlines how to effectively convert vectors into pixel art in Adobe Illustrator, preserving a clean background that complements your artwork.

Keyword

• Vector graphics
• Pixel art
• Adobe Illustrator
• Rasterize
• Object Mosaic
• Magic Wand Tool
• Cleanup
• Eyedropper Tool

FAQ

Q: Why do I need to rasterize my graphic before creating an object mosaic?
A: Rasterizing converts your vector graphic into a raster image, which is necessary for the object mosaic function in Illustrator.

Q: What is the purpose of adjusting the anti-aliasing settings during rasterization?
A: Selecting "None" in the anti-aliasing settings prevents the creation of unnecessary transitional colors around the edges of your graphic.

Q: How can I maintain proportions when creating an object mosaic?
A: By clicking the "Use Ratio" button after adjusting the width or height of the tiles, you can ensure that your dimensions remain proportionate to the original artwork.

Q: What should I do if the Magic Wand Tool selects too many pixels?
A: You can adjust the tolerance of the Magic Wand Tool. A lower tolerance generally results in selecting fewer adjacent pixels, while increasing it allows for broader selections.

Q: Can I customize the color of my layer for better visibility while cleaning up?
A: Yes, you can double-click on the layer in the layers panel and adjust the color to ensure better contrast against your artwork.