If you don't see your annotator when using the Gradient tool (G) then choose View > Show Gradient Annotator (Command-Option-G/Ctrl-Alt-G). I tend to sometimes turn it off and on by accident when I'm using the keyboard shortcuts for grouping and ungrouping objects.
How do I get the gradient tool back in Illustrator?
How to use the gradient tool in Illustrator
- Create a shape in Illustrator.
- Select the Gradient Tool from your toolbox.
- Go to the “Fill” box under “Appearance” on the right of the screen.
- This opens the settings box for the Gradient Tool.
- In “Type:” choose from linear, radial or freeform gradients.
Where is the gradient Feather tool in Illustrator?
You can use the Gradient Feather effect to fade an object from opaque to transparent. Use the Selection tool ( ) to click the Light Purple–filled vertical rectangle on the right side of the page. At the bottom of the Effects panel, click the FX button ( ) and choose Gradient Feather from the pop-up menu.
