Script for Adobe Illustrator

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Description

Distribute Gradient Stops is a time-saving script for Adobe Illustrator that helps you create perfectly balanced gradients. Whether you're working with complex multi-stop gradients or simple two-color transitions, this script ensures even spacing between color stops and consistent midpoint positioning.

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Features

• Distribute gradient stops equally spaced with perfect mathematical precision
• Reset gradient endpoints to 0% and 100% for the normalized range
• Reset gradient midpoints to 50% for even color transitions
• Works on multiple selected objects at once
• Processes both gradient fills and gradient strokes
• Handles nested objects within groups
• Automatically zoom to gradient items for better visibility

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Installation

1. Download the Distribute Gradient Stops.jsx script file.

2. Place the script in your Adobe Illustrator Scripts folder:

⮑ Mac: /Applications/Adobe Illustrator <Version>/Presets/<Language>/Scripts

⮑ Windows: C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator <Version>\Presets\<Language>\Scripts

3. Restart Adobe Illustrator if it's already running.

4. Access the script via File > Scripts > Distribute Gradient Stops.

5. The dialog window will appear with the three distribution options.

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The script offers three distribution options:

• Reset first and last stops to 0% and 100%: Moves the first gradient stop to 0% and the last stop to 100%, normalizing the gradient range before distribution.
• Evenly distribute gradient stops: Redistributes all gradient color stops with equal spacing along the gradient path, maintaining the first and last stop positions while evenly spacing everything in between.
• Evenly distribute gradient sliders: Sets all gradient midpoints to 50%, creating smooth, even color transitions between adjacent stops.

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All options can be used independently or together, giving you complete control over your gradient distribution. The script works on multiple selected objects simultaneously and processes gradients in both fills and strokes, including objects nested within groups.

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Using the Script

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➊ Prepare Your Document

• Open Adobe Illustrator and create or open a document containing objects with gradient fills or strokes
• Ensure you have at least one object with a gradient that you want to adjust

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➋ Select Your Objects

• Use the Selection Tool (V) to select one or more objects with gradients
• You can select multiple objects at once - the script will process all gradients found
• Objects can be individual shapes or grouped items

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➌ Run the Script

• Go to File > Scripts > Distribute Gradient Stops
• Alternatively, if you've placed the script elsewhere, use File > Scripts > Other Script... and browse to the script location

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➍ Choose Distribution Options

A dialog window will appear with distribution options and preview controls:

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Distribution Options:

• Reset first and last stops to 0% and 100%:
  • Check this to normalize the gradient range
  • Moves the first stop to 0% and the last stop to 100%
  • Useful for gradients that don't span the full range
  • Applied before distribution for consistent results

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• Evenly distribute gradient stops:
  • Check this to redistribute color stops with equal spacing
  • The first and last stops remain at their current positions (or 0% and 100% if reset is enabled)
  • All intermediate stops are evenly spaced between them

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• Evenly distribute gradient sliders:
  • Check this to reset all midpoints to 50%
  • Creates smooth, linear color transitions between stops
  • Removes any custom midpoint adjustments

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➎ Apply Changes

• Click OK to apply the selected distribution options
• Click Cancel to exit without making changes (original gradients are restored)
• Zoom Button (+): Click to automatically zoom and center gradient items in the view
  • Helps you see gradient details more clearly
  • Focuses only on items with gradients, ignoring other selected objects

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Tips for Best Results

• Zoom for precision: Click the zoom button to get a closer look at gradient details
• Before running the script: Arrange your gradient stops in the approximate order you want
• For gradients with unusual ranges: Enable "Reset first and last stops" to normalize them to 0-100% before distribution
• For complex gradients: The script maintains your color choices but redistributes spacing, so your gradient's overall appearance will change
• For subtle adjustments: If you only want to fix midpoints, uncheck "Evenly distribute gradient stops"
• For major restructuring: Use all three options to completely normalize your gradient
• Working with groups: The script automatically finds and processes gradients in nested objects

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☻ Conclusion

Distribute Gradient Stops streamlines gradient creation in Adobe Illustrator by automatically spacing color stops and midpoints with mathematical precision.

Perfect for designers who need consistent, professional gradients across multiple objects without manual adjustment.

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