Skip to content
English
Signature Locker
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

v1.3 — Creating Shadows

Technical Sketch | 2Ds | Phase 2

Last Updated: May 6, 2026

 

LINE ART, SHADOWS & THREADS

Overview

In this video, I demonstrate the shadow-creation process, starting with the line art and base setup. I double-click the existing shadow symbol, group the line art elements with the preset groups, and place the 2D panel back lining shadow beneath the line art group. I then apply the built-in shadow graphic style, which adjusts transparency and darkens the base color. When necessary, I hide the base layer, then save the file as version v1.3 and update it to v1.4.

STEP-by-STep guide

1. Save the current version and prepare to version up 0:00

generated-image-at-00:00:00

  • The line art is complete, so save the file first.

  • Version the project up to the next file version: v3.

  • This video focuses on the shadow workflow, since this example only has one shadow to build.

2. Open the shadow symbol and identify the existing structure 0:24

generated-image-at-00:00:24

  • The shadow already has a graphic style built in.

  • Double-click into the symbol to edit it directly.

  • Rename and organize the contents so the structure is clear:

    • Lineart shadow

    • Group the line art elements together

  • Keep the line art group at the top in case additional elements are added later.

3. Keep the artwork organized with grouped layers 1:09

generated-image-at-00:01:09

  • Grouping is used to keep the symbol easy to manage.

  • Even if there is only one item now, create a group so the structure is ready for future additions.

  • The shadow section contains multiple elements, so grouping helps keep it flexible.

  • The back section contains:

    • Lineart back

    • Base front

  • No shadow changes are needed for the back since it has no shadow layer.

4. Build the shadow from scratch if it does not already exist 3:00

generated-image-at-00:03:00

  • If the shadow were not already built, start from the relevant panel/layer.

  • Bring the shadow element up from the front/back structure as needed.

  • Drag the panel into the line art area.

  • Group the elements and label the group clearly, such as:

    • 2D panel back lining shadow

  • Copy the shadow element into the group so it can be styled properly.

5. Apply the shadow graphic style 4:18

generated-image-at-00:04:18

  • Select the shadow element inside the symbol.

  • Hover over the graphic style options and choose shadow.

  • This applies the shadow effect, which appears as a transparent darkening over the base color.

  • The result is the intended shadow treatment for the artwork.

6. Hide the base and save the next version 4:40

generated-image-at-00:04:40

  • Hide the base layer to check the shadowed result more clearly.

  • Confirm the artwork is building correctly with the shadow in place.

  • Save the file as v1.3.

  • Version up again to v1.4 and finish the workflow.