Dellustrations

Pencil Tutorial: How do design a pencil icon!
Below is the result that we are looking for in this tutorial:

1. To start, we need to create a basic shape so we can apply all the necessary effects later. For that, we are going to use a tool in Illustrator that some are familiar with -
3D Extrude & Bevel. We also need to keep in mind that there is a certain "positioning" to this icon, so we have keep in mind the "percentage" for each "x", "y" and "z" elements. Let's create 4 objects using only a stroke. (Remember, we only need "half" of the full object, as Illustrator is going to fill in the blanks). See screen below:

2. Now that we have the basic shapes, we need to apply the positioning, and the
angle of which the icon will be designed. All three shapes MUST have the same angle, height, turn, and perspective (if any). Going to your top Menu you should see a tab that says "Effect/3D/Extrude & Bevel". Click on it and immediately you will see a "Extrude & Bevel" link.

3. Play with it, get it just the way you want and hit "Done". Now you should have something like this:

4. For now on, everything falls into place. This is when we bring it into photoshop to help us with the smoothing, coloring, shades, shadows and such. This part you have to be patient and perseverant. Icons are detail work so don't rush! We need to start mapping our image so we can work in sections until we have something solid. Starting with the mid section, here are some effects to start with. Using the brush tool we begin to add some natural colors to it, we'll use yellow as base color:

5. We add more color later and start to get into shadows and lighting which is a bit tricky at times. (This will be explained later). Notice how vivid and strong the color is and how nice the icon starts to get, also notice some subtle lines (grain) on the yellow paint surface. In the end it all adds up to a nice touch!

6. Because we have the other shapes of our puzzle, we need to "paint" the other objects as well. Remember, natural colors, natural shadow, natural shades, it's all in the details. Take your time, the longer you take the better your icon will be as well. See Below:

7. We assemble the icon and apply final touches:

8. Finally we need to add basic reflection and shadow under the pencil icon to make it a little bit more realistic. In the end, you should be able to get something like you see below. Hope this information is helpful! - Enjoy!