Using artboards in Illustrator

Using artboards in Illustrator is very much like pages in programs like InDesign.  When you create a new document in Ai, you can choose to create multiple artboards as well. You can also add artboards once in the document.  To do this, begin by sele ...

Creating simple toggle switches in XD

Creating simple toggle switches is really the next step in understanding both components and states.  One example of a toggle switch is an on / off button. This same method could be used for any object that changes its appearance.  First, design one ...

XD for presentation

Presentation tools have always frustrated me, they seem clunky and not at all free for creativity. I also dislike the feeling of hunting around for icons, images and just the inefficiency of it. Enter XD for presentation, which has a sense for design and ...

Illustrator variable width profiles

The Illustrator width tool and variable width profiles are excellent ways to quickly add interest to line art.  To use the Width tool, click the Width tool or press Shift + W to select it. Drag an anchor point to expand or contract the stroke. To make ...

Using grids and guides in Illustrator

Using grids and guides in Illustrator can frustrate new users - especially those coming from InDesign. In InDesign, you may be used to quickly creating margins, columns and rows to help you accurately place and measure objects. Using a few simple tricks, ...

Illustrator blend tool

The Illustrator blend tool allows you to object color or to create repeated shapes. There is flexibility with this tool to blend two open paths to create a smooth transition between objects, or you can combine blends of colors and objects to create color ...

Shape Builder in Illustrator

Using shape builder in Illustrator allows you to start creating iconography and begin your illustration adventures. First, create the shapes on which you want to apply the Shape Builder tool. Next, using the Selection tool, select the paths that you ...

Creating artwork with the Illustrator pen tool

The basics of creating new artwork with the Pen tool. The Pen tool, found in the Toolbar, is one of the most powerful drawing tools in Illustrator. With it, you can create and edit anchor points and paths. Tip: Set stroke and fill before drawing. To st ...

Using Illustrator across the Creative Cloud

Using Illustrator across the Creative Cloud is easier than new users think. This training will show you how to use Illustrator files in different applications and with different exports.  Let’s start with Illustrator to After Effects. (We have a whole ...

Basic logo animation in After Effects

Creating a basic logo animation in After Effects is a great way to learn some easy key frame animation techniques. Getting Started Before going to After Effects,  create a layered composition in either PS or Illustrator. Anything you want to animate ne ...