Creating Isometric Graphics in Illustrator

A recent trend, particularly with Flash-based websites has been to create an experience based around the isometric representation. Isometric illustrations provide a 3D view where no matter where an element is within the image it remains in scale, unlike the true 3D perspective where objects reduce in size towards the background.

In this article you will learn the two common methods used for creating isometric illustrations and how to create them in Illustrator.

There are two common methods to choose from when you want to create the feel of an isometric drawing; either truly accurate isometric, or the 2:1 pixel ratio.

Method 1: Truly Accurate Isometric

If you are creating a technical drawing or icon set this is probably the method for you, the final image will match the true isometric representation.

Step 1: Create 2D outlines

Step 2: Scale the design vertically by 86.602%.

Object > Transform > Scale

Step 3: Shear (or ‘skew’ in other programs) by 30 degrees.

Object > Transform > Shear

Step 4: Rotate the design by either 30 or -30 degrees.

Object > Transform > Rotate

Step 5: Add the details & finish the image.

Method 2: The 2:1 Pixel Ratio

If you are creating a piece of artwork or a media presentation then the 2:1 pixel ratio method provides the illusion of isometric even through it isn’t truly accurate, the major advantage if you decide to choose this route is that it is a far quicker technique to produce from.

I recently launched the World of TeleWare micro-site; an interactive cityscape where users can explore the companies solutions through a series of animations and illustrations. I used the 2:1 method to create this project due to the sheer scale of the project and the scheduled timescale.

Step 1: Create 2D outlines

Object > Transform > Rotate

Using the ‘Direct Selection Tool’

Step 2: Rotate the design by 45 degrees.

Step 3: Drag the top & bottom points on a 2:1 pixel ratio.

Step 4: Add the details & finish the image.

Comparing the Methods

Here is a side-by-side image showing the difference between the two methods.

I hope you have found this article useful. My next few entries will document how you can export illustrations to Flash and create eye-catching animations & interactive micro-sites.

  

Written by Peter Hinton

Founder of the creative services provider Peter Hinton Design and Creative Manager of the TeleWare Group.