1 Here we will create a simple outer space scene and populate it with “stars”. Start by making a background graphic the size of the stage using a simple linear gradient with dark colors.

2 Use the Spray Brush tool to create the stars. Customize its properties by selecting white as the color and selecting Random scaling.

3 Click to create short bursts of “spray” using the default object (which is just a simple vector circle). You can click and drag across the stage to produce a continuous spray pattern.

4 With random scaling selected, the pattern (or lack thereof) produces a convincing galaxy-like effect. Throw in a planet or two and a dog in a space suit and your scene is complete.

1 The Spray Brush tool is assigned a circle shape by default, but you can swap this for any Movie Clip or Graphic symbol you have in the document’s Library. Here I’ve created a 5-pointed star using the PolyStar tool and converted it to a movie clip.

2 Select the Spray Brush tool and then click Edit in the Properties panel. The Swap Symbol panel opens to display all Movie Clip symbols in your Library. Here I’ve selected my “star” movie clip.

3 Click or drag to create a random pattern using the Star symbol. For this example I sprayed stars around the character’s head to suggest it may have suffered a head injury or has become dizzy. The point is, the Spray Brush tool can make short work of repetitive tasks such as this.