...effect > warp options can do what the free distort does in most cases (if not more), you can also try the warp tool (shift+R) and changing the brush size for real organic distortions...
...but with many of these tools, trial and error is nearly always required...
...other ways to skew are using the free transform tool with the command/control + shift + alt/option key combinations and combos between these keys...
...doesn't work with imported graphics though so you have to use the warp functions in the effect menu (or warp tool) or the envelope distort functions under the object menu to skew embedded graphics...
Andrew
