Gradient Meshes to Make a Burning Vector Match (Part 2)

 

2. Making a Vector Match Head

Step 1

Use the Ellipse Tool (L) to draw a red circle (#e20612) that is perpendicular to the matchstick's horizontal axis.

 

 

Step 2

Click the point on the left twice using the Direct Selection Tool (A). Drag it to the left while holding Shift. Then, using the Pen Tool (P), create a new anchor point at each position where the matchstick and the head meet.

Step 3

To trim the handles of the two new anchor points, hold Alt while clicking. Next, choose the point between them using the Direct Selection Tool (A) and drag it towards the head.

 

Step 4

A radial gradient of light to dark brown hues should cover the entire match head. These are the hues I employed:

    #210900
    #994521
    #f1ce94

Step 5

Use Control-B to copy and paste the head's shape to the back. Dark brown (#340900) should cover the entire copy and be moved a little to the left.

Step 6

Use the Pen Tool (P) to make a burnt-out spot for the wood. These spaces should be filled with a linear gradient made of deep brown tones. These are my sunglasses:

    #492117
    #240700

Place these two items below the layers that make up the match head. 

Step 7

It's time to pore the match head. Draw an ellipse with the Ellipse Tool (L). Use the Eyedropper Tool (I) while pressing Shift to select the color from the right-hand region.

Step 8

The ellipse in front is copied, and pasted, and then its size is reduced. It is then filled with a solid dark brown (the same shade as the shadow beneath the match head).

Step 9

Use this method to make the match head's pores bigger.