Filmora
Filmora - AI Video Editor
Edit Faster, Smarter and Easier!
OPEN
Enhance Text Effect & Animation in Video Editing
  • Add dynamic flair with enhanced text effects.
  • Transform your videos with advanced text animation.
  • Elevate your edits with impactful text enhancements.

How to Create Neon Text Effect in Adobe Illustrator?

James Hogan
James Hogan Originally published Sep 24, 24, updated Oct 28, 24

Are you frustrated with boring text and want to add a vibrant vibe to your project? Here’s where the neon text effect in Illustrator comes in! It is an effective method to make your text pop out.

You can instantly achieve that desired glowing effect. Neon text is a popular choice in graphic design to make projects attractive. This guide will help you learn how to create neon light effect in Illustrator.

Moreover, we will explore Filmora’s neon text effect features for perfect glowing looks. So, stop using boring and dull texts.

Spice up your projects with brighter neon effects!

In this article
    1. Key Features of Neon Text Effects in Illustrator
    2. Steps on Making Neon Text Effects in Illustrator
    3. Steps To Add Gradient Effects on Neon Text in Illustrator
    4. Steps To Create Neon Light Text Illustrator Effect Using Multiple Strokes and Fills
    1. Key Features of Neon Text Effects in Filmora
    2. Step-by-Step Guide on Making Neon Text Effects in Filmora
    3. Steps on Making Flickering Effect With Neon Text in Filmora

Part 1. How To Design Neon Text Effects in Illustrator?

Adobe Illustrator is a tool for creating graphics and designs. It provides multiple features for creating creative designs. Users can produce quality work using this tool.

In the digital era, where attention spans are very short, neon lights do the work. They convey a sense of creativity and charm to the audience. Adobe Illustrator allows users to add this magic to their projects.

Key Features of Neon Text Effects in Illustrator

Use these features of neon text effect in Illustrator to make your projects shine:

  • Multiple Color Choice: You can apply the neon text effect in Illustrator using a variety of vibrant colors.
  • Customizable Options: Adobe Illustrator offers multiple customizable options. Users can efficiently adjust the neon effects according to their requirements.
  • Add Multiple Strokes: You can add more than one stroke to your text.
  • Shadow Effects: Adding different shadow effects provides a soft text look.
  • Gradient and Transparency: You can manually adjust the gradient and transparency settings. It offers smooth color transitions.

Steps on Making Neon Text Effects in Illustrator

Explore the following step-by-step guide to make the neon text effects in Illustrator:

Step 1: The first step is to set up the grid in Illustrator—Watch this video. Then, create a new document using the "RGB color mode."

using the rgb color mode

Step 2: Then, use the rectangle tool to create a background. From the "Object," lock the background so it doesn’t move.

create a background
icon note
Note: Make sure the background is black or a dark color.

Step 3: Then, click "T" from the panel and tap anywhere on the background screen to type the text. Select the desired font style and center the text.

type the text and place it in center

Step 4: Change the color of the text. In the Effect option, go to Blur and select "Gaussian Blur." Enter a small value like 0.5.

select the gaussian blur option

Step 5: In the "Edit" option, click "Copy" and then click "Paste in place." Then, select the Gaussian blur option in the appearance panel and slightly increase the value.

Step 6: Repeat the Step 5 four to five times until you achieve something like this:

copy the text and paste in place

Step 7: In the Effect option, click the "Document Raster Effects Settings." In the popup window, increase the resolution to 300 ppi. Then, set the "Around Object" value to the maximum. Then click "Ok" to apply the settings.

click the document raster effects settings

Step 8: Decrease the size of the text slightly. It will look like this:

decrease the size of the text

That’s how to make text glow in Illustrator. Continue reading if you want to move further and add gradient effects to the text.

Steps To Add Gradient Effects on Neon Text in Illustrator

Detailed steps to add gradient effects on the neon text in Illustrator:

Step 1: Create a rectangle and increase its size so that it covers almost everything.

create a rectangle

Step 2: From the swatches palette, select the black and white gradient color.

select the gradient color

Step 3: Then, add the colors from the gradient panel to make it colorful.

add the colors

Step 4: Click the opacity option, and select the "Overlay" option from the dropdown.

select the overlay option

Step 5: You will have a gradient effect on the text. Change the color according to your requirements.

change the color according to the requirements

Steps To Create Neon Light Text Illustrator Effect Using Multiple Strokes and Fills

Adobe Illustrator also offers the multiple strokes and fills feature. You can use this feature to create the neon effect. So, follow these steps to make the neon text effect in Illustrator:

Step 1: Create a new document and then create a rectangle that completely covers the artboard. Change the color of the rectangle.

create a rectangle and change its color

Step 2: Grab the text tool and add the text. Change its font size and style.

add the text

Step 3: Then, in the appearance panel, click "Type" once. Then, from the bottom, click on "Add new fill." From the color panel, change the color.

open the color panel

Step 4: Change the background color to black to make the text visible.

change the color

Step 5: From the button of the Appearance panel, click on the "Add New Stroke" option and change to the required color. Change the stroke width to 2 pixels.

click on the add new stroke option

Step 6: Drag and drop the fill on top of the stroke option.

drag and drop the fill

Step 7: Then again, add another stroke by clicking the "Add New Stroke" option. This time, increase the stroke width and put the value of 10 pixels.

Step 8: At the bottom of the Appearance panel, in the Effect option, click blur and select the "Gaussian Blur" option. Choose the value according to the spread you want.

select the gaussian blur option

Step 9: Drag the 2-pixel stroke on the top so the fill is sandwiched between the strokes.

make the fill open sandwiched

Your neon text effect in Illustrator using strokes and fill is ready!

neon text effect in Illustrator using strokes and fills

Moreover, watch this video to learn how to create a neon light text Illustrator effect.

Part 2. Filmora: Make Your Neon Effects Creation Easier During Video Editing

Want to create a super hit neon effect design but don’t want to waste hours? Welcome to Wondershare Filmora, where creativity is simplified in ways never imagined. It is the perfect solution for all levels of video editors.

We all love the feeling of luxury, whether in real life or when watching videos. Filmora helps you add that luxury to your projects with glowing effects.

It has various modern neon effect templates, customization options, and animation effects to add the perfect vibe. Filmora effortlessly creates top-quality videos. Transform your neon effect ideas into reality with Filmora.

Key Features of Neon Text Effects in Filmora

You can take advantage of Filmora software due to its following endless benefits:

  • Pre-built Templates: Filmora has various modern and creative pre-made neon effect templates. These save a lot of time and provide instant quality looks.
  • Color Options Customization: Users have the full flexibility to choose their desired neon color to get the required results.
  • Dynamic Intensity Control: It allows you to adjust the intensity of the glow to achieve a soft or vibrant look.
  • Smooth Keyframing: Level up your videos by keyframe transitions of the neon text.
  • Neon Text Animation: Boost your creativity with hundreds of animations available.
Add Neon Text in Videos with Wondershare Filmora

Elevate your videos with Filmora's Neon Effect, adding a vibrant glow to your footage.

box filmora

Step-by-Step Guide on Making Neon Text Effects in Filmora

Follow the steps to create your dream neon text effects in Filmora instantly:

Step 1: The first step is to download and install Wondershare Filmora on your computer. Then launch it.

Step 2: Select a title and place it on the timeline.

select the title

Step 3: From the panel, change the text. Then, change the font style to something bolder and increase the font size.

change the text

Step 4: Select any effect from the effects dropdown and turn on the outline option. Set these values in the outline:

Blur: 10

Thickness: 5

select effect and apply the settings

Step 5: Then, enable the shadow option and select the same color as the outline. Set the following values:

Opacity: 90

Blur: 10

Distance: 0

enable the shadow option

The neon text effect is ready in Filmora.

Steps on Making Flickering Effect With Neon Text in Filmora

Adding a flickering effect to the neon text is very trendy. It gives your project a whole new vibe. Follow these steps to make your projects super exciting:

Step 1: Copy the neon text from the timeline and paste it into the second and third tracks. Then, lock all the tracks.

paste the neon text on other tracks

Step 2: Then unlock the first track, move two frames, split, move two more, and repeat the process until 8-9 times.

split the frames

Step 3: Then, move the alternative frames above the tracks. Hide and lock all the upper layers.

lock the upper track layers

Step 4: Then, open the advanced settings. Select a silver color under the fill and set the opacity to 55%. Inactivate the outline and shadow options. Then, apply these changes.

make changes to the text

Step 5: Repeat the step 9 for alternate frames of 1st track.

Step 6: Take the 2nd track a little back and go to advanced. Then, slightly increase the blur under the fill option.

make changes on the 2nd track text

Step 7: Then, unlock the 3rd track, move it a little back, and go to advanced settings. Write the text you want and place it below the main text.

add another text

Step 8: Then move two frames, split, again move two more, and repeat the process until 8-9 times. Then, move the alternative frames above the tracks.

split the frames on the 3rd track

Step 9: Then, delete these upper frames and add your desired sound.

add your desired sound

And boom! Your flickering effect with neon text using Filmora is ready!

Part 3. Adobe Illustrator vs. Filmora: A Comparative Analysis

Feature Adobe Illustrator Filmora
Usability Level Complex, detailed understanding Simple, easy to understand
Customization Multiple options but time-taking Easy, various ready-made templates
Target User Professional designers Beginners to advanced designers
Motion Integration Requires multiple animation steps Built-in motion graphics for neon text
Speed Slow due to complexity Fast due to pre-made various templates

Part 4. Benefits of Creating Neon Text

Neon signs are more than just lights; they're tools for making any message stand out. Bright and versatile neon text grabs attention quickly, making it a valuable asset for any business looking to highlight its presence. Below are some of the benefits of creating neon text.

For Business Owners

Neon text attracts more customers. It's bright and bold, ideal for catching the eye of passersby at night. Perfect for promotions and sales, it helps businesses stand out in busy areas.

use of neon text effect in business.

For Event Planners

Neon text enhances event themes. It adds a fun, energetic vibe to parties and gatherings, making events memorable. It is great for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events.

use of neon text in events

For Designers

Neon text boosts design appeal. It allows designers to experiment with vibrant colors and unique effects in their projects, from posters to digital media, offering a modern aesthetic that captivates.

use of neon text effect in creative designing

For Educators

Neon text makes learning exciting. It can transform ordinary classrooms into engaging spaces, helping to focus attention on key subjects like math or science. This visual stimulation can enhance student interest and participation.

use of neon text effect for educators.

Now that you know the benefits of using neon text effects for different purposes. You might be thinking about which font you should use in Illustrator. Let's answer this in the next part.

Part 5. What Are the Best Fonts To Use for Neon Text Effects in Illustrator?

Choosing the right font is crucial for any project, especially Neon text effects. The font should be easy to read and visually appealing for an eye-catching effect.

Retro Font

The retro neon font adds fun and a familiar feel to designs. It's easy to read and brings a fresh, cool vibe. This makes it ideal for any neon light design that needs a lively touch.

retro font.

Macchiato

The Macchiato font is ideal for clear, attractive display text. Its formal, cool style suits many neon signs. The distinct corners and elegant curves help it stand out.

Macchiato font

Stacko Neon Font

Want your brand to pop? Consider the Stacko neon font. It highlights eclectic beauty in every form. This font draws attention with its bright colors and shiny reflections.

Stacko neon font.

Enlighten

The Broadway-inspired font makes designs stand out. It features all capital letters, giving neon lights a flashy look. This font fits almost any advertising or marketing campaign.

enlighten font.

Neon Ballroom

The Neon Ballroom font is both futuristic and bright, making your projects stand out. It suits serious or fun-loving themes perfectly.

neon ballroom font.

Avaneonz Font

The Avaneonz font is ideal for your next marketing promo. Its straight and double lines make every message impactful. Use this tough-looking typeface for social media or futuristic designs, like space exploration, where technology is crucial.

avaneonz font.

Neon Planet Font

This outer space-inspired font adds life to your designs with its fun, futuristic vibe. It makes designs look like they're from a movie. You'll love using this font for neon signs.

neon planet font.

Conclusion

Neon text effects are an excellent way to make your videos super-hit and trendy. Mastering neon text effects in Illustrator opens your mind to next-level creativity. Adobe Illustrator gives flexible control over each aspect of the design. On the other hand, Filmora transforms work hours within seconds by providing various templates.

Both tools have their benefits. Illustrator is your go-to if you like to do every design aspect yourself, but Filmora is perfect for providing an efficient solution. Try both the softwares and see what works best for you!

Get Started for Free Get Started for Free

FAQs on Neon Text Effect in Illustrator

  • What tools are essential for creating neon text effects in Illustrator?
    The essential tools for creating neon text effects in Illustrator are:
    • The pen tool
    • Gaussian Blur
    • Blending Modes
  • Can I create a neon text effect on a complex background in Illustrator?
    Yes. You can use the “Screen” blending mode to create a neon text effect on a complex background in Illustrator.
  • Can I use neon text effects in other design software besides Illustrator?
    Yes, tools like Wondershare Filmora work great in efficiently creating neon text effects.
James Hogan
James Hogan Oct 28, 24
Share article: