Gradients are one of the most versatile ways to transform the look and feel of any T-Shirt print design. Color is one of the most powerful tools in design and gradient color is a dynamic way to attract attention and create depth and dimension to T-Shirt prints and printed products.
Gradients consist of two or more colors flowing into one another, creating a gradual blend of color across shapes, typography, photographic images, illustrations and backgrounds. Gradients enable the designer to almost create a new colors and transform prints to another level.
While gradients come and go as a trend, they tend to always come back rather quickly because of their universal appeal and advances in design technology that allows for new and exciting applications. Digital print technology also allows for these designs to come to life on printed garments and products.
With the Gradient Effect trend expect to see explosive color choices and unconventional combinations of colors in gradients. Extreme color and subtle shading combinations add unreal depth to T-Shirt print design that would otherwise remain flat.
Discover exciting ways the gradient trend can enhance your T-Shirt design and printed products in this weeks blog post. (WARNING: you might need your sunglasses for this one!!!)
1- 3D GRADIENT
Combining 3D elements with trendy complex gradients for a powerful dimensional look. 3D shapes are either fluid to create motion or more structured creating a more retro 80’s-90’s vibe.
2- GRADIENT PORTRAIT
Gradient overlays and gradient elements intertwine with photographic or illustrated portraits to create new and exciting design compositions.
3- GRADIENT PHOTO BOMB
Bold gradient shapes interact with monochromatic photographic images to create a new perspective. Some examples include putting gradients in the background, using them as overlays, or melding subtle, slight gradients with various photographic content.
4- ABSTRACT GRADIENT
Instead of sticking with linear transitions going horizontally or vertically or radial gradients the new abstract gradients are more complex. Irregular blending and distortion effects create liquid motion and surreal designs.
5- FUTURISTIC CITY SCAPE
Clean vector illustrations or color manipulated photographic images use highly saturated gradients to create futuristic visions of twilight city landscapes. This creates a new level of detail and visual interest.
6- GRADIENT TYPOGRAPHY
Typography is the perfect design vehicle for experimenting with gradients. The applications and styling ideas are endless from gradients fills too full blown 3D masterpieces. Any typography design and be transformed with create gradients.
7- OTHERWORLDLY LANDSCAPE
Gradients bring a futuristic, cosmic feeling to the overall design of otherworldly landscapes. The color schemes and abstract elements will make you feel like you are in an alternative universe.
(**All mood board images are sourced from DownloadT-ShirtDesigns and Pinterest.
Their purpose is to communicate design trends and ideas and to inspire.
The mood board images above are NOT for resale or reuse.**)
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