: Make a 3D curved column graph in Illustrator like this I have only this image here of what I'm trying to achieve. Illustrator seems like the reasonable choice. Not really sure where to start

@Kimberly620

Ok, while its true that things like this would be easier to do with a 3d app. The demo certainly is. Do this:


Draw 2 concentric circles and cut them up into concentric sectors. Maybe offset a bit.


Enable the perspective grid (maybe choose the 3 point defaults from view menu), select bottom plane and enable the perspective selection tool. Drag around.


Shift atly drag the plane upwards in the steppings you need.


Delete and join lines.


Hide lines


Shade. But that was my 4 minutes of tutorial time for today, use different perspective settings for different effects.

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@Chiappetta793

3D shapes can be created in Illustrator. The glossy finish would be possible but much harder.

To create the 3D shapes:


Draw each part of the graph in 2D from a 'top down' perspective.
Select each object individually and use Effect > 3D > Extrude and Bevel. From here, tweak the depth of the extrusion to set each bar to correct height.


It's might also worth experimenting with Illustrators Graph tool if you need precise graphs. Once a graph has been created, it can also be Extruded.

As Rafael suggested though, this would probably be easier in a 3D Modelling application such as a Blender or SketchUp

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