Gradient mask in AI CS2?

I would like to create a gradient mask; in FL or FW it takes about 2 seconds, though in AI I can't find anything in the help menu. Also, these forums absolutely suck; what is the point of not being able to search individual forums?

Any help would be appreciated; I'm at the point of copying and pasting the FW file in AI and being done with it; damned print media...

Gradient mask in AI CS2?

What you want is an Opacity Mask. Draw the gradient over the object or group to mask, select everything, then select Make Opacity Mask in the Transparency panel.

You can use just about anything for an opacity mask, including gradient mesh, a group of drawn objects, a placed image, r even the result of another opacity mask. It's incredibly versatile, but quite cumbersome.

Gradient mask in AI CS2?

Thanks, Scott; I guess they just never bothered to call it a gradient mask; I have used this technique to create the glassy web 2.0 look; it involves pasting the original layer in front of the gradient layer, then grouping with the gradient and creating the opacity mask; a major pain in the rear...

You might want to upgrade to version 14.

Transparency can be added to specific stops along a gradient. You can't use this as an alternative to Opacity Masks for images or groups, just for single fills.

That's a nice, albeit somewhat minor, improvement for a broke web designer...

Paevo Kelley wrote:

That's a nice, albeit somewhat minor, improvement for a broke web designer...