Kevin Tang

She looks simply amazing! I knew you'd do a great job, my friend!

@Splashee I think I already got that covered, just gotta figure out how to make the gradients

@Tacodidra Thanks! 

Gradients are difficult, since they are linear. Study Rarity's mane and see if the shading is linear as well (I would predict it is). otherwise, you might have to resort to the gradient mesh tool (I do not like using it, it is not a friendly tool).

For filling, even if you already know it. Duplicate your outlines into a new layer (because the width tool will not survive the convert to live paint layer). You have then two layers, one is the outlines, and one is the live paint. The best part about this is that you can fix errors later.

The more vector approved way is to go to the menu object->expand or object->expand appearance, which makes the outslines into filled shapes themselves, and then use the pathfinder (a tool window in the window menu) to merge different shapes together. This is the best options when the final drawing is done.

You should always have the tool window "pathfinder" up anyways, as it is the main way to merge shapes, or split shapes, or align shapes.

But live paint is best for filling ponies, just need to remember to keep a separate layer with the visible outlines on top (so you can keep the width tool's strokes and edit them later if needed)