![Final product image](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/final_image/Candy Cuddles600final.jpg)
If your summers are anything like mine, you’ll happily look for a sweet treat to beat the heat. In this tutorial, I’ll break down the basics of this project, showing you how to create everything in Adobe Illustrator, from the character’s waffle cone skirt to the cherry on top.
1. Create the Main Character’s Body
Step 1
We’ll begin by scanning our sketch into our computer at 300 dpi to catch as much of the detail as possible. This drawing was done with a mechanical pencil, so the initial tools aren’t really that important. Use what you’re comfortable with.
We’ll be working with a clean line quality from Adobe Photoshop, and now we can begin to work. I’m working in Adobe Illustrator at a size of 8.5 x 11 inches for this specific project.
I’ve labeled the first layer “Sketch” and locked it to make sure that I won’t accidentally move or delete it. We’ll be loosely following this drawing as our guideline.
![Sketch](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles1.jpg)
Step 2
Now that our cool picture is ready for rendering, we can start to make our first initial shapes. I’m using our handy little Pen Tool (P) to create our upper body shape. There isn’t a need to create the entire body, only the areas we’ll see.
![Color for Main Body](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles2a.jpg)
![Result of Color for Main Body](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles2b.jpg)
Step 3
We’re going to Copy (Control-C) and Paste in Front (Control-F) a lighter mahogany of both the head and the upper torso. Using our Feather effect, we’ll soften the edges to give the body dimension.
![Overlaying Color of Main Body](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles3a.jpg)
![Result of Overlaying Color onf Main Body](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles3b.jpg)
2. Add Facial Features
Step 1
My next step is to make the eyes. I start with a color darker than white to enhance the rest of the eye in the long run. You’ll see a distinct difference if you try both solutions.
![Color of Eye Shape](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles4a.jpg)
![Resulting Color of Eye Shape](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles4b.jpg)
Step 2
The nose and creases around the eye are handled with a darker mahogany. I work a bit flatter than most with these features, which gives my characters a cute, cartoon-like look.
![Color of Nose](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles5a.jpg)
![Result of Nose Color Chosen](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles5b.jpg)
Step 3
While still using my solid colors, I’ve taken my Pen Tool (P) and used it to form her eyelashes in a purple plum color. Normally I would have used a darker color such as black, but this is an extremely color-driven character. She deserves a bit more pizzazz.
![Eyelash Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles6a.jpg)
![Results of Lash Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles6b.jpg)
Step 4
The color of her iris is made with a three-colored Radial Gradient. It gives off a warm glow without the use of blur effects.
![Iris Colors](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7a.jpg)
![Result of Iris Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7b.jpg)
![Creating Pupil](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7c.jpg)
Step 5
I like to go with a two-color Radial Gradient of pure white on either side to create a shine effect to areas that require it.
Adding line work to the iris gives them a doll-like quality that adds whimsy and dimension.
![Adding Shine to the Eyes](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7d.jpg)
![Adding Line Work to the Iris](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7e.jpg)
![Finishing Up Eyes](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles7f.jpg)
Step 6
As you can tell, I’m a fan of Transparency effects. Just the slightest bit of color can make the best shadows.
![Adding Shadow to Bridge of Nose](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles8a.jpg)
![Finished Shadow on Nose](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles8b.jpg)
3. Add Makeup
Step 1
The lips are made with a bright, two-toned color combination. The colors work well with her skin tone and personify the idea of a hard-candy-coated smile.
![Color of Lips](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles9a.jpg)
![Adding Lips](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles9b.jpg)
![Adding Shading to Lips](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles9c.jpg)
![Adding Shine to Lips](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles9d.jpg)
![Finished Lips](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles9e.jpg)
Step 2
Taking a step back, you’ll see that she has a pretty prominent look. Don’t fall in love with the eyebrows yet. This is simply a placeholder until you find a color that works well with her hair.
I’m also not completely happy with the shape of the lips, so this too may change as we progress. It’s alright to start off with a certain look in mind and make changes to the composition as you go. The beauty of Adobe Illustrator is that it’s so forgiving and flexible. Use it to your advantage.
![Finished Makeup](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles10.jpg)
Step 3
I love a bright cheek on happy girl illustrations. It gives the suggestion of life and vibrancy. The more subtle the Transparency, the more believable they’ll look.
![Adding Blush](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles11a.jpg)
![Altering the Transparency of the Blush](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles11b.jpg)
Step 4
From here, we’ll apply the eye shadow. I liken this bright color to a throwback from the 80s. Notice how it gives a shimmer to her eyelid.
Make sure to be mindful of the order of your layers. Notice that the eye shadow has been placed behind the creases of the eyes made earlier.
![Eyeshadow Colors](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles12a.jpg)
![Adding Eyeshadow](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles12b.jpg)
![End Result of Eyeshadow](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles12c.jpg)
Step 5
When I want to add a bit more depth to a large space such as the forehead, I’ll use a Radial Gradient with a Feather effect to soften the edges.
Try to stay away from Gaussian Blurs if at all possible. They’re great for glows, but can look very messy as blush or as skin reflections.
![Adding Shine to Forehead](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles13a.jpg)
![Adding Shine to Cheeks](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles13b.jpg)
Step 6
We’re finally able to add candy elements. I’ve started with circular candy sprinkles around the eyes. I’ve added the same Radial Gradient used on top of the iris and pupil of the eye to add a bit of shine to each.
![Adding Sprinkles to Cheeks](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles14.jpg)
4. Add Hair and Clothes
Step 1
The next step is to make her long bangs. I’m starting off with a pink to see how I like it against her skin and makeup. I want it to have a pastel feel, similar to recently churned ice cream.
In the project file, you’ll notice that the bangs and long hair in the back have been separated onto two individual layers. This lessens confusion, and makes selection easier. I recommend locking any layer you’re not working in at the time to avoid accidental movement or recoloring.
![Adding Bangs](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles15a.jpg)
![Adding Long Hair](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles15b.jpg)
Step 2
After finishing up the initial shape of the hair, we’ll work on her festive candy top. I chose to make a candy belt pattern due to its unique pattern and flexibility. It’s almost believable as a fashionable top.
To smooth out any rough bits, I used a 1.5 pt Stroke line around the entire piece of clothing.
![Adding Candy Top](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles16a.jpg)
![Finishing Up Shading to Top](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles16b.jpg)
![Adding Stroke Line to Top](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles16c.jpg)
Step 3
The waffle cone skirt is made simply from two colors combined in another Radial Gradient, with a Stroke line of 1.5 pt. We’re merely carving out the main shapes first.
![Skirt Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles17a.jpg)
![Adding Skirt Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles17b.jpg)
Step 4
At this point, we can add one of my favorite elements. Candy Belts are literally covered completely with sugar, so it’s only fitting that our character has a similar Candy Belt top. For a better understanding of how to make your own glitter/sugar you can refer to Create a Lisa Frank Inspired Colourful Pegasus in Adobe Illustrator to create a great Symbol pattern to use repeatedly. This will cut down on your file size considerably.
Also, add a bit to her cheeks to tie in with her sugary sweet look.
![Adding SugarGlitter to Top](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles18a.jpg)
![Finishing Up GlitterSugar](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles18b.jpg)
![Adding GlitterSugar to Face](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles19.jpg)
5. Add Hair Details
Step 1
Sometimes, it takes seeing the rest of the elements to come up with the appropriate hair color for your character. I chose a Neapolitan ice cream color, which would give us three different colors to her hair for a sweet, frosty look.
I liked the idea of strawberry ice cream, but I didn’t want to overwhelm the piece with too much pink. I like the use of different flavors to represent her hair.
![Finalizing Hair Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles20a.jpg)
![Adding Hair Details](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles20b.jpg)
![Continuing Details of Hair](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles20c.jpg)
![Adding Curls to Bangs](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles20d.jpg)
Step 2
Once the larger elements have been created, we’ll start to make our drippy hair pieces. I’ve started with the middle strawberry color since it’ll be easier to bring the other two colors into its coloring, creating a suggestion of the flavors mixing.
![Adding Strawberry Drips to Hair 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles21a.jpg)
![Adding Strawberry Drips to Hair 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles21b.jpg)
![Adding Strawberry Drips to Hair 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles21c.jpg)
Step 3
As you can see, we’ve moved over to the vanilla side of her bangs, creating the same drippy effect as used with the strawberry side.
We are gradually adding elements of strawberry to our vanilla and chocolate to our strawberry layers in a very convincing display of color.
![Adding Vanilla Drips to Hair 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles22a.jpg)
![Adding Vanilla Drips to Hair 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles22b.jpg)
![Adding Strawberry to Vanilla Bangs](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles22c.jpg)
![Adding Long Hair Ice cream Splashes 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles22d.jpg)
![Adding Long Hair Ice cream Splashes 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles22e.jpg)
Step 4
Now a large portion of our hair is complete. I’ve gone in to the hair behind her head to add splashes and liquid-like curls as an extra special effect. I think it reads well as both hair and liquid.
![Adding Long Hair Ice cream Splashes 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles23.jpg)
6. Add Jewelry
Step 1
Where would a candy girl be without her candy necklace? In my childhood, this was a must for any little girl with a sweet tooth like mine. Using simple shapes and gradients will give a clean finish to your candy.
![Making Candy Necklace 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles24a.jpg)
![Making Candy Necklace 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles24b.jpg)
![Making Candy Necklace 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles24c.jpg)
![Making Candy Necklace 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles24d.jpg)
Step 2
To complement her candy necklace, we’ve made a square of gum which will not be very visible under her hair, so there isn’t a real need for detail here.
![Making Candy Earring 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles25a.jpg)
![Making Candy Earring 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles25b.jpg)
Step 3
To top off her jewelry, we’ll make a cherry-shaped fastener to affix to her hair. Any good old-fashioned sundae would come with one, so the idea of the cherry is very iconic, especially in the United States.
If you’re not a “cherry” kind of person, experiment with different toppings, or come up with an alternative that suits your tastes.
![Adding Cherry Fastener 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles26a.jpg)
![Adding Cherry Fastener 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles26b.jpg)
![Adding Cherry Fastener 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles26c.jpg)
![Adding Cherry Fastener 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles26d.jpg)
![Adding Cherry Fastener 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles26e.jpg)
Step 4
We’re now ready to add the long sprinkles to adorn her syrupy tresses. I started with a simple 5 pt Stroke line with Rounded Caps and Rounded Corners.
![Making Sprinkles 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles27a.jpg)
![Making Sprinkles 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles27b.jpg)
Step 5
Create various colored sprinkles all over her hair and Group (Control-G) them all together. Copy (Control-C) and Paste in Front (Control-F) twice.
The top group of sprinkles will be used to make the flat sprinkles more believable. The lower group of sprinkles will be used to make a shadow component.
![Making Sprinkles 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles27c.jpg)
![Making Sprinkles 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles27d.jpg)
![Making Sprinkles 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles27e.jpg)
7. Create a Marshmallow Bird
Marshmallow Peeps are a popular candy that many can identify. The body is billowy with very soft features. Top off the look with a little iconic chocolate eye.
Peeps are covered in their own sugary coating as well, so you can be generous with your sugar/glitter Symbols here as well.
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28a.jpg)
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28b.jpg)
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28c.jpg)
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28d.jpg)
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28e.jpg)
![Making a Marshmallow Peep 6](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles28f.jpg)
8. Add Decorative Nails
Step 1
I love adding nail polish to my own nails, so I couldn’t wait to add this simple feature. Going with our candy theme, I chose bright colors similar to her clothing.
![Color of Nails](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles29a.jpg)
![Adding Nails 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles29b.jpg)
![Adding Nails 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles29c.jpg)
![Adding Nails 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles29d.jpg)
Step 2
The nails can be finished off with a bit of shine added to them. We’ll also add a soft skin highlight to the fingers and back of her hand.
![Adding Nails 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles30a.jpg)
![Adding Nails 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles30b.jpg)
9. Create a Waffle Cone Effect
Step 1
There are various ways we can approach this skirt, but one of the simplest and quickest is to use Stroke lines to make a pattern across the length of the skirt. Make a Copy (Control-C) and Paste (Control-V) to overlay a new identical layer of lines to finish up your waffle pattern.
Even out the tones of the shadows of the skirt folds, taking care not to leave them as dark as they were, and add a nice layer of Feathered light amber to the top, excluding the areas where there would be no real source of light.
![Adding Waffle Pattern to Skirt 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles31a.jpg)
![Adding Waffle Pattern to Skirt 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles31b.jpg)
![Adding Waffle Pattern to Skirt 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles31c.jpg)
![Adding Waffle Pattern to Skirt 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles31d.jpg)
Step 2
I’m obviously a fan of dipping things in chocolate, but if you’re not too keen on the idea, it’s great to experiment with other flavors. Maybe you’re a lover of all things white chocolate, or caramel—the sky’s the limit with this sweet little project. Always keep an open mind.
![Adding Chocolate to Skirt 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles32a.jpg)
![Adding Chocolate to Skirt 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles32b.jpg)
Step 3
I’m topping off my skirt with a smattering of crushed peanuts. Maybe the idea of seeing peanuts on your project makes you break into hives or want to reach for an epi-pen. Why not cover the bottom in sprinkles instead!
![Adding Nuts to Skirt 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles33a.jpg)
![Adding Nuts to Skirt 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles33b.jpg)
10. Create Gummi Bears
Step 1
As far as gummi bears go, I’m not a fan of their taste, but I love how they look. It’s a whimsical, decorative friend with a nearly transparent body, so what’s not to love about these particular little guys.
![Making Gummi Bears 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles34a.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles34b.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles34c.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles34d.jpg)
Step 2
After making the larger areas of our red gummi bear, we’ll add the highlights and shading to him. He’s got a very glassy skin quality, much like his candy ancestors.
![Making Gummi Bears 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles35a.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 6](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles35b.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 7](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles35c.jpg)
Step 3
In this step I’ve added a little gummie treat between his paws. It’s a bit of dark tongue-in-cheek humor on my part, but it’s not cannibalism, if you don’t know where it came from.
![Making Gummi Bears 8](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles36a.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 9](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles36b.jpg)
Step 4
In this shot, we see the finalized look for our red gummi friend.
![Making Gummi Bears 10](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles37.jpg)
Step 5
Another of my favorite shortcuts is the Recolor Artwork option located in your Edit tab. This allows me to take all of the colors selected and experiment with them without actually going through the hassle of changing individual gradients. It can all be done in this window, which is why I love this feature so much.
I have used a green for the little friend perched on her shoulder, and I’ll use the same techniques to add depth and shine to his body and face.
![Making Gummi Bears 11](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles38a.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 12](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles38b.jpg)
![Making Gummi Bears 13](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles38c.jpg)
11. Create the Chocolate Rabbit
Step 1
My final character to create is the chocolate rabbit. I’ve started with a rich, dark brown as my base color, and I’ll add sources of light to bring out his shape. The sources of light are then softened with a Feather effect, and his bow has been added in a marigold yellow color as a nod to the traditional chocolate bunny.
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles40a.jpg)
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles40b.jpg)
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles40c.jpg)
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles40d.jpg)
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles40e.jpg)
Step 2
Once our rabbit is completed, we can add a few simple jelly beans around him. As a time saver, I would Copy (Control-C) and Paste (Control-V) a bunch and change their color as you go.
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 6](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles41.jpg)
Step 3
The rabbit has also been placed in a Clipping Mask (Control-7) for easier editing. I’ve set him in the ice cream hair, and I’ve added a few splash marks to tie the look together into one cohesive idea.
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 7](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles42a.jpg)
![Making a Chocolate Bunny 8](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles42b.jpg)
12. Edit the Lips
Step 1
As I mentioned before, I wasn’t completely happy with the lips, but instead of starting from scratch, I’ve made a duplicate of the bottom lip to work from.
Using the newly formed top lip, I’ll use the same techniques as with the previous lip, even adding a crease to the corner of the mouth.
No matter how far along you are into a project, you still have the freedom and ease to make changes in Illustrator.
![Editing Lips 1](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles43a.jpg)
![Editing Lips 2](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles43b.jpg)
![Editing Lips 3](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles43c.jpg)
![Editing Lips 4](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles43d.jpg)
Step 2
Here’s a shot of the newly edited mouth, with a sweeter smile.
![Editing Lips 5](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles44.jpg)
13. Add a Simple Background
Using a two-toned Radial Gradient of purple hues, we’ve created the final element to our sweet treat project.
![Background Color](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles45.jpg)
Finished! Our Sweet Little Picture Is Now Ready to Display!
I really do hope you’ve enjoyed this rendering. If you’re hoping to start off with something a bit easier to follow, try Quick Tip: Create a Candy Flavored Text Effect in Photoshop. If you’d like to try something a bit more challenging, such as creating your own game with your colorful characters, try Getting Started with Phaser: Building Monster Wants Candy. Happy Vectoring!
![Final Project](https://cms-assets.tutsplus.com/uploads/users/126/posts/24588/image/Candy Cuddles600final.jpg)
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