How to Fill Shapes Created with the Blob Brush Tool in Adobe Illustrator

Yes, it is possible to fill a shape made with the Blob Brush tool in Adobe Illustrator. This versatile tool creates filled shapes that can be colored and edited like any other shape. Here’s how you can fill or change the color of a shape made with the Blob Brush:

Select the Shape

The first step is to select the shape you created with the Blob Brush. To do this, use the Select Tool (V) to click on the shape.

Change Fill Color

Using the Color Panel

To change the fill color, follow these steps:

Go to the Color panel (Window Color) or the Swatches panel (Window Swatches). Choose a new fill color by clicking on the fill box and selecting your desired color.

Using the Live Paint Bucket Tool

If your shape consists of multiple overlapping areas, you can use the Live Paint Bucket tool:

Select the shape with the Select Tool (V). Go to Object Live Paint Make to convert the shape into a Live Paint group. Select the Live Paint Bucket tool (K) and click on the areas you want to fill with color.

Expand Appearance

If you want to convert the Blob Brush shape into a more editable vector shape, you can select the shape and go to Object Expand Appearance. This will allow you to manipulate the shape further if needed.

By following these steps, you can effectively fill and modify shapes created with the Blob Brush tool in Illustrator.

Additional Tips for Filling Blob Brush Shapes

Each stroke within the blob is already a shape on its own with its own fill and line. Here are additional ways to fill and manipulate these shapes:

Using Appearance and Compound Paths

If the blob shapes are overlapping and form one larger shape with one or more inner areas, these will be a so-called Compound object. To check this, look at the Appearance window or the bottom of the Object menu. You can easily release all parts/paths in the Object – Compound menu and fill the formerly inner area with a different color, gradient, or pattern. Alternatively, you can use it as a mask for any clipped content.

Using PathFinder

If the blob parts are still separate to begin with and don’t yet overlap, you can use the PathFinder:

1. Select the blob parts.

2. Go to Window Pathfinder.

3. Use the PathFinder tools to merge the parts together.

Mastering the Blob Brush and its various manipulation techniques can unlock a wide range of creative possibilities in Adobe Illustrator. Experimenting with different fill colors, live paint techniques, and vector editing tools can help you achieve your design goals effectively.