How to Make a 3D Globe in Illustrator (Step-by-Step)

Creating an abstract 3D globe or ribbon sphere is one of the most classic techniques in vector logo design (famously used in the AT&T logo). In this tutorial, you will learn how to make a 3D globe in Adobe Illustrator using simple 2D patterns, the 3D Revolve tool, and Map Art.

Whether you want to follow the video tutorial or read the step-by-step written guide below, you will also find free editable vector source files (AI, EPS, SVG) available for download at the end of this post.

Video Tutorial: How to Create a 3D Striped Globe

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Globe in Adobe Illustrator

If you prefer written steps over video, follow this quick workflow to create your 3D sphere logo:

Step-1:

Draw a series of horizontal rectangular stripes or colored bars using the Rectangle Tool (M).
Select all stripes and open the Symbols Panel (Window > Symbols).
Drag your design into the Symbols panel, name it “Globe Stripes”, and set the export type to Graphic Symbol.

Step-2:

Select the Ellipse Tool (L), hold Shift, and draw a perfect circle.
Use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to click and delete the leftmost anchor point, leaving a half-circle (semicircle path).
Set the fill color to None and give it a thin stroke color.

Step-3:

Select your semicircle path and go to Effect > 3D and Materials > 3D (Classic) > Revolve (Classic) (or standard 3D Revolve in newer Illustrator versions).
Set the rotation axis angle to create a sphere shape.
Check Preview to ensure the path revolves into a 3D sphere.

Step-4:

Inside the 3D Revolve options window, click on Map Art.
Select the outer surface of your 3D sphere using the surface navigation arrows.
From the Symbol drop-down menu, choose your saved “Globe Stripes” symbol.
Scale the symbol to fit the surface grid properly.
Check the Invisible Geometry box if you want a hollow/transparent ribbon globe effect! Click OK.

Step-5:

Go to Object > Expand Appearance to convert the 3D effect into standard vector shapes.
Right-click and Ungroup (repeat 2–3 times) to release individual stripes.
Apply custom color gradients, shadows, or branding elements as needed!

Where to Use 3D Abstract Globe Vectors

Corporate & Tech Logos: Perfect for global networking, telecom, IT, and AI brands.
UI/UX & Web Graphics: Modern vector accents for hero sections, landing pages, and app icons.
Infographics & Presentation Slides: Clean visual metaphors for global operations or data distribution.

Download Free 3D Globe Vector Files (AI, EPS, SVG)

Don’t have time to design it from scratch? Download the complete vector source package below for free!

Included File Formats:

.AI – Native Adobe Illustrator CC file (Fully editable layers & symbols)
.EPS – Legacy vector format compatible with CorelDraw, Affinity Designer, and Inkscape
.SVG – Web-ready scalable vector format

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is Map Art not showing on my 3D sphere in Illustrator?

A: Ensure that you saved your 2D pattern as a Symbol in the Symbols panel before opening the 3D Revolve window. Non-symbol artwork cannot be selected in the Map Art menu.

Q: How do I change the color of the 3D globe after creating it?

A: Select the globe, go to Object > Expand Appearance, ungroup the object, and use the Direct Selection Tool to recolor individual vector paths or apply gradients.

Credits:

Design by CreativeAlys – Don’t forget to share your creations with #CreativeAlys!

CreativeAlys Studio

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