This project was an assignment with the goal being to create a vector image using a gradient mesh. I  chose this picture I took of an Elmer's rubber cement bottle.

I began this project by dropping this photo into Adobe Illustrator.

I then turned it into the base for my gradient mesh by clicking on the layer and changing the settings to "Template" and the "Dim Images" to 100%. This allowed me to see the image through the outline of the gradient mesh.

And now for the mesh! I started with the lid, which I divided into six different sections.

There are so many cross sections! As tedious as this was, it allowed me to get a more realistic look instead of a cartoon one. I colorized each section by switching between the Direct Select tool and the Eyedropper tool before moving on to the next section. 

Once the entire bottle was done, I began drawing the label with the Pen tool. 

Here is one final look at the outline.

And here is the final product! This project was very tedious, but it was worth it. I also love how it turned out, especially for it being my first time using gradient mesh.