Abstract Background

1. Gradient background

Create a rectangular path and fill it with blue gradient.

gradient path

2. Screen gradient paths

Create another path with Blue-Black gradient and select Screen Blending Mode. This will create a lighter blue gradient shade. If your color setting is CMYK, make sure the black is full black (C,M,Y,K=100). The red arrow on the image is the direction of the gradient fill.

Another Screen gradient path.

3. Abstract wave

Take 2 white stroke paths.

wave strokes

4. Blend Tool

Go to Object > Blend > Blend Options, enter Specified Steps = 20. Then with the 2 strokes selected, go to Object > Blend > Make or press Ctrl+Alt+B. This will blend 2 white strokes and create an abstract wave effect. If you want to change the Blend step, you can go to Object > Blend > Blend Options or double click the Blend Tool(B) on the tool bar.

blend options

5. Change stroke color

Use Direct Selection Tool (A), select one of strokes and change it to blue stroke color. Notice how 2 strokes blend from blue to white. Isn't this cool?

stroke color

6. Wild blend

Now go wild with your Pen tool, create 2 wavy strokes and blend them. Play around with the Blend step, stroke weight and color.

Repeat the steps and create the last abstract blend, from blue to purple.

purple blend

Final

Your image should look like something below:

Abstract Background Tutorial: Final Result

Abstract Desktop Wallpaper

Now you can use this abstract image for your desktop wallpaper.

wallpaper