Create a repeating hexagon pattern in Illustrator

In this quick tip we are going to create a repeating hexagon pattern to which we will then add a width gradient for this sports car mockup.

To make the hexagon repeating pattern we are going to use Dynamic Shapes, part of VectorScribe, and the Snap to Collisions Tool which is part of ColliderScribe.

To make the hexagon pattern:

🏎 Open the Dynamic Shapes Panel (Window > Astute Graphics > Dynamic Shapes) and click the Polygon icon.

🏎 As you drag out, the basic shape is a hexagon. If you don’t see this, use the B keypress to default back to the basic shape.

🏎 Navigate up to the Snap to Collisions Tool which is stacked under the Selection Tool in the toolbar.

🏎 Double-click the tool to open the preferences window, then make sure you have the Snap to Pre-Dragged Paths Positions checked.

🏎 Drag the hexagon across and you’ll see the pink dots snapping to your original.

🏎 Hold down Alt (mac) / Option (Windows) to duplicate the shape.

🏎 Repeat this process a few times, and then you can select multiples and duplicate them.

To add a width gradient we will be using the Width Gradient Panel, part of the WidthScribe plugin:

🏎 To open the Width Gradient Panel go to Window > Astute Graphics > Width Gradient.

🏎 Click inside the panel to activate it, and adjust the minimum and maximum stroke weights.

🏎 With your pattern selected, you can click-and-drag down to adjust the width gradient. Hold the Shift key to constrain the angle.

🏎 Repeat this process if you’d like to change the weights.

🏎 Use the flyout menu option in the Width Selector Panel to Convert Selected Paths to a Uniform Width.