Drift Banded Text Effect in Illustrator: A Step-by-Step Guide

💎 Transform Effect
Using the Effect - Distort & Transform - Transform tool, we'll create an eye-catching banded effect on a rectangle.

📦 Shape Builder
Next, we'll refine our design by removing unnecessary bands from the text using the Shape Builder tool.

📍Precision with Coordinates
Adjusting the Y coordinates allows us to make precise modifications to each band, creating a dynamic offset for a visually striking effect.

🎨 Compound Gradients
We'll convert each band row into a compound path and apply gradients to add depth and dimension.

🥷🏼 Blend Shadow Depth
Elevate your design with a silky, smooth background shadow, lending an exceptional depth to the banded text.

🌘 Gradient Mesh
Infuse a touch of magic with a gradient mesh, artfully blending colors for an alluring effect.

🧑🏼‍🍳 Final Touches
Finish by tweaking layer transparencies and incorporating grain to add the perfect finishing touch to this text effect.

Resources

Adobe Illustrator:
Our primary tool for this creative journey. Explore more

Herokid Typeface:
A versatile typeface by W Type Foundry. Discover Herokid

Music:
Groove to "Bumping Deep and Soulful House | Loc'd Grooves Ep 2 | Radisson Blu Port Elizabeth" by LocHIVE The DJ. Listen Now

©2025 Tim Preut Design

©2025 Tim Preut Design

©2025 Tim Preut Design