ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR
RESOURCE GUIDES
RESOURCES: As I create my artwork, pay attention to the resources used throughout the workflow. LEARNING TARGET (1): Download Brushes and Resource Folders for Adobe Illustrator. LEARNING TARGET (2): Start with our Resource Guides to understand how to apply Brush Libraries, Comic Halftones, and T-shirt Textures in Adobe Illustrator.
TUTORIALS: I have organized tutorials by core areas of your Workflow: Building, Editing, and Coloring. LEARNING TARGET (1): Understand the Building Tools and Options. LEARNING TARGET (2): Apply Line Variation along with Live and Expanded Editing Tools. LEARNING TARGET (3): Apply Color, Values, and Gradients using Advanced Coloring Techniques.
GETTING STARTED: Our Getting Started Guides will walk you through the process of downloading, saving, and gathering resources for your own artwork. LEARNING TARGET (1): Download Stock Photos to use as a Resource Images. LEARNING TARGET (2): Download and Save Brush Libraries. LEARNING TARGET (3): Download or Save Color Swatches.
STOCK PHOTOS: I recommend using Unsplash for your Sketch, Drawing, and Color References. If you are new, I recommend creating a "Traceable Path" by using a Clean Line Drawing or Traced Stock Photo. LEARNING TARGET: Download Stock Photos to use for your artwork and designs.
COLOR SWATCHES: I highly recommend using Adobe Color for your Themes to add to your Library or download ASE Files. In most tutorials, we will be applying Flat Colors using Live Paint. LEARNING TARGET: Download or Save Color Themes to use with your own artwork and designs.
FONT FAMILIES: I recommend using Adobe Fonts for Commercial Use. If you are New, look for Font Families to use for your Primary Business or Marketing (Headers + Sub Headers). LEARNING TARGET: Download or Save Fonts to use with your own artwork and designs.
ILLUSTRATOR TUTORIALS: Tutorials and Playlists will follow an easy process for creating artwork in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, start with Beginner Guides or Illustrator Tutorials. LEARNING TARGET: Understand how to apply the Primary Building Tools and Options in Adobe Illustrator.
DIGITAL DOWNLOADS: Many of you are jumping over from YouTube looking to download our Adobe Illustrator Brushes and Resource Folders. Digital Downloads will come through our friends at Teachable. LEARNING TARGET: Download Brush Libraries, Comic Halftones, T-Shirt Textures, or Resource Bundles.
RESOURCE GUIDES: As I create my artwork, pay attention to the resources being used throughout the Workflows, Tutorials, and YouTube Playlists. LEARNING TARGET: Understand how to apply Brush Libraries, Color Swatches, Comic Halftones, and BMP Textures in Adobe Illustrator.
BEGINNER: In our Beginner Guides and Tutorials, you will see me give Prompts and Learning Targets. These directions will simplify the process of learning Adobe Illustrator. LEARNING TARGET: Understand the Primary Building Tools and Options in Adobe Illustrator.
ADVANCED: As I am creating my artwork, pay attention to the Sequence of Events, Resources, and Tool Options as it relates to building a "Workflow." LEARNING TARGET: Apply Building, Variation, Editing, and Advanced Color Techniques to your own Artwork.
FOCUS: I have organized tutorials by core areas of your Workflow: Building, Editing, and Coloring. LEARNING TARGET (1): Understand the Building Tools and Options. LEARNING TARGET (2): Apply Line Variation along with Live and Expanded Editing Tools. LEARNING TARGET (3): Apply Color, Values, and Gradients using Advanced Coloring Techniques.
"BUILDING" ARTBOARD: I recommend establishing a "Standardized Approach" that you can use for your own artwork. The initial Artboard Size can be changed at any point without ruining your own artwork. LEARNING TARGET: Create a "Building Template" that includes Artboards, Resources, and Template Layers.
DOWNLOAD RESOURCES: If you are a Beginner, I am going to recommend starting from a Resource Image. Give yourself a "Traceable Path" by using a Clean Line Drawing or Traced Photo. LEARNING TARGET: Start with the Resource you intend on using for your artwork (Sketch, Drawing, or Traced Stock Photo).
TEMPLATE LAYER: Have your Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Photo Selected. In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create 50% Opacity and Lock the Layer. LEARNING TARGET: Create a Template Layer so you can see the Resource Image and new Paths.
RESOURCE IMAGES: If you are a Beginner, I am going to recommend starting from a Resource Image. Give yourself a "Traceable Path" by using a Clean Line Drawing or Traced Stock Photo. LEARNING TARGET: Download Resource Images to use for your artwork and designs.
COLOR SWATCHES: I highly recommend using Adobe Color for your Themes to add to your Library or download .ASE Files to Open. In most Tutorials, we will be applying Flat Colors using Live Paint. LEARNING TARGET: Download or Save Color Themes to use with your own artwork and designs.
BRUSH LIBRARIES: Many of our Tutorials will go through a process of applying and editing our Brush Libraries. Brush Libraries will come as Zipped Folders, Extract All before using in Adobe Illustrator. LEARNING TARGET: Download Brush Libraries to use with your own artwork or designs.
RESOURCE BUNDLE
600 ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR RESOURCES: (SALE 35% OFF) Our Comic Halftones, Brush Libraries, and BMP Textures will come to you as a Zipped Folder on Teachable. Once you have downloaded and Extracted the Folder, the Resources are ready to be used in Adobe Illustrator. Resource Bundle includes our 70 Comic Halftones, 200 Illustrator Brushes, and 400 BMP Textures.
ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR BRUSHES. Our (Updated) Adobe Illustrator Brush Libraries are specifically designed for Illustrators and Cartoonists to speed up their workflow. Brush Libraries are compatible with Adobe Illustrator CC through CS. Mac or PC. Brush Libraries: 70 Cartoon, 100 Comic Strip, and 50 Vintage Mascot Brushes. DOWNLOAD BRUSHES / BRUSHES GUIDE
ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR HALFTONES. Our Halftones and Patterns Fills are designed for easy application even if you are new to Adobe Illustrator. Halftone Fills behave the same as a Color Swatch so you can apply them quickly using the Blob Brush, Live Paint, or Basic Fills. Halftones: 70 Comic Strip Halftone Fills and Pattern Fills. DOWNLOAD HALFTONES / HALFTONES GUIDE
ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR BMP TEXTURES. Our BMP Textures are extremely easy to use even if you are a beginner to Adobe Illustrator. Use BMP Textures along with Opacity Masks in the Transparency Panel for T-Shirt Distressing. BMP Textures: 145 Cracks, 120 Grunge Distressing, 75 Paper, and 77 Paint Splatter Textures. DOWNLOAD TEXTURES / TEXTURES GUIDE
ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR
RESOURCE BUNDLE
DOWNLOAD BUNDLE
20% OFF
RESOURCE BUNDLE
DOWNLOAD BUNDLE
20% OFF
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2
SAVING SWATCHES: Color Swatches are free on the internet. Go to Adobe Color. Select the Color Theme you would like to save. If you have CC, you can Add to your Library. If you have an older version, download as an ASE File. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. BEGINNER GUIDE 4 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 10
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
FINDING FONTS: For those of you using Adobe Fonts, I recommend starting from the Browse All, Trending, and Recommendations. I do recommend testing out the new Variable Fonts. FREE RESOURCES GUIDE / GETTING STARTED GUIDE
SAVING FONTS: When you find a Font or Family you like, you can simply click the Add Family to your Account. The Fonts will be available across your Adobe Programs. FREE RESOURCES GUIDE / GETTING STARTED GUIDE
SORTING FONTS: Have an idea of what you are looking for before looking for Fonts. Use the Categories and Tabs to sort through the Font Families. FREE RESOURCES GUIDE / GETTING STARTED GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. BEGINNER GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE 1 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. BEGINNER GUIDE 8 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." BEGINNER GUIDE 8 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. BEGINNER GUIDE 8 / BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. BEGINNER GUIDE 10 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 4
SAVING SWATCHES: Color Swatches are free on the internet. Go to Adobe Color. Select the Color Theme you would like to save. If you have CC, you can Add to your Library. If you have an older version, download as an ASE File. BEGINNER GUIDE 10 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 4
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 10 / BEGINNER GUIDE 7 / BEGINNER GUIDE 4
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. BEGINNER GUIDE 2 / BEGINNER GUIDE 6 / BEGINNER GUIDE 8
FINDING FONTS: For those of you using Adobe Fonts, I recommend starting from the Browse All, Trending, and Recommendations. I do recommend testing out the new Variable Fonts. BEGINNER GUIDE
SAVING FONTS: When you find a Font or Family you like, you can simply click the Add Family to your Account. The Fonts will be available across your Adobe Programs. BEGINNER GUIDE
SORTING FONTS: Have an idea of what you are looking for before looking for Fonts. Use the Categories and Tabs to sort through the Font Families. BEGINNER GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. BEGINNER GUIDE 5 / BEGINNER GUIDE 9
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. VIEW BEGINNER GUIDE
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. VIEW BEGINNER GUIDE
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. VIEW BEGINNER GUIDE
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. VIEW GETTING STARTED GUIDE
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. VIEW GETTING STARTED GUIDE
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". VIEW GETTING STARTED GUIDE
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. VIEW BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." VIEW BRUSHES GUIDE
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. VIEW BRUSHES GUIDE
SAVING SWATCHES: Color Swatches are free on the internet. Go to Adobe Color. Select the Color Theme you would like to save. If you have CC, you can Add to your Library. If you have an older version, download as an ASE File. VIEW COLORING GUIDE
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. VIEW COLORING GUIDE
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. VIEW COLORING GUIDE
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. VIEW HALFTONES GUIDE
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." VIEW HALFTONES GUIDE
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. VIEW HALFTONES GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. VIEW TEXTURES GUIDE
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. VIEW TEXTURES GUIDE
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. VIEW TEXTURES GUIDE
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. DOWNLOAD BRUSHES / BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." DOWNLOAD BRUSHES / BRUSHES GUIDE
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. DOWNLOAD BRUSHES / BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. DOWNLOAD FOLDERS / HALFTONES GUIDE
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." DOWNLOAD FOLDERS / HALFTONES GUIDE
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. DOWNLOAD FOLDERS / HALFTONES GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. DOWNLOAD BUNDLES / TEXTURES GUIDE
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. DOWNLOAD BUNDLES / TEXTURES GUIDE
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. DOWNLOAD BUNDLES / TEXTURES GUIDE
SAVING SWATCHES: Color Swatches are free on the internet. Go to Adobe Color. Select the Color Theme you would like to save. If you have CC, you can Add to your Library. If you have an older version, download as an ASE File. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
FINDING FONTS: For those of you using Adobe Fonts, I recommend starting from the Browse All, Trending, and Recommendations. I do recommend testing out the new Variable Fonts. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
SAVING FONTS: When you find a Font or Family you like, you can simply click the Add Family to your Account. The Fonts will be available across your Adobe Programs. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
SORTING FONTS: Have an idea of what you are looking for before looking for Fonts. Use the Categories and Tabs to sort through the Font Families. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. BEGINNER GUIDE
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. BEGINNER GUIDE
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". BEGINNER GUIDE
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. DRAWING GUIDE
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. DRAWING GUIDE
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. DRAWING GUIDE
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." BRUSHES GUIDE
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. HALFTONES GUIDE
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." HALFTONES GUIDE
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. HALFTONES GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. TEXTURES GUIDE
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. TEXTURES GUIDE
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. TEXTURES GUIDE
SAVING SWATCHES: For those of you using Adobe Color, I recommend starting from the Explore Tab. Select the Color Theme you would like to save. Add to your Library or download as an ASE File. COLORING GUIDE
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. COLORING GUIDE
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. COLORING GUIDE
FINDING FONTS: For those of you using Adobe Fonts, I recommend starting from the Browse All, Trending, and Recommendations. I do recommend testing out the new Variable Fonts. FONT GUIDE
SAVING FONTS: When you find a Font or Family you like, you can simply click the Add Family to your Account. The Fonts will be available across your Adobe Programs. FONT GUIDE
SORTING FONTS: Have an idea of what you are looking for before looking for Fonts. Use the Categories and Tabs to sort through the Font Families. FONT GUIDE
ARTBOARDS: File-New. Use a size or ratio that you can use for all of your own artwork. I recommend a 1080px by 1080px artboard for websites and social postings. Many of you will be looking to export your own artwork to Instagram. You can modify the size of the artwork or artboard with the Artboard Tool or Properties Panel. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
SKETCH OR TRACED PHOTO: I recommend starting from a Clean Line Drawing or a simple Traced Stock Photo for your artwork and designs. Create a "Traceable Path" to align with the Building Tools in Adobe Illustrator. You can speed up your workflow by using a Quick Sketch when you become more advanced. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
TEMPLATES: File -Place in your own Drawing, Sketch, or Traced Stock Photo. Select your Resource Layer. (It will usually be your only layer) In your Layers Panel, select the Menu in the Upper-Right Hand Corner. Drop down to Template. This will create a 50% Opacity and Lockout the Layer. Create a New Layer above to start "Building". GETTING STARTED GUIDE / BEGINNER GUIDE
ADJUSTMENT LAYERS: Once you have placed in your Photo Reference, you can add Adjustment Layers. This will assist you in looking at the Photo Reference. This is not required. I recommend adding Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, and Black & White. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
EXPORTING FROM LAYERS: When you are all done with your Sketches, Drawings, or Traced Stock Photos, I recommend Exporting from the Layers Panel. Select All of your Drawing Layers. Click on Export As from the Layers Panel Menu. This will Export All of your Drawing Layers. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
DRAWING TEMPLATE: File - New. Create a Adobe Photoshop Document 2160px by 1080px. You can adjust the size to match your Export Size (1080px by 1080px). Select the Frame Tool. Create a Frame half of the size of the Document. File - Place Embedded to insert Photo. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / DRAWING GUIDE
SAVING LIBRARIES: After downloading and extracting the Brushes Folder, I will recommend saving Brush Libraries to your 'User Defined." This will be for Quick Access to the Brush Libraries in New Documents. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING BRUSHES: Opening your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator will be through the Brushes Panel. Click on "Open Brush Library." Select "Other Library" or "User Defined." DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / BRUSHES GUIDE
EDITING BRUSHES: There are some different options for editing your Brushes in Adobe Illustrator. I will recommend using the Shape Builder Tool for Quick Editing of Expanded Brushes and Objects. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / BRUSHES GUIDE
OPENING HALFTONES: Opening Halftones in Adobe Illustrator is as easy as Copying + Pasting them into your Working Artboard. Halftones will automatically populate into the Swatches Panel. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / HALFTONES GUIDE
RESIZING PATTERNS: Depending on your artboard size, you might need to Resize Pattern Fills the Halftones in Adobe Illustrator. Simply use the Scale Tool to "Transform Patterns." DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / HALFTONES GUIDE
APPLYING HALFTONES: Halftones will behave just like any Color Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. If you are new to Adobe Illustrator, use the Blob Brush to paint in Comic Halftone Patterns. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / HALFTONES GUIDE
PLACING TEXTURES: To use BMP in Adobe Illustrator, go to File- Place. Select any of the BMP Textures to bring in to your working artboard. Most adjustments will be in the Transparency Panel. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / TEXTURES GUIDE
OPACITY MASKS: Using Opacity Masks in Adobe Illustrator is extremely fun. Click on "Make Mask" in the Transparency Panel. This will be for your own original artwork for T-shirt Distressing. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / TEXTURES GUIDE
CLIPPING MASKS: Using the "Draw Inside" feature is an easy way to use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator. Simply File - Place in the BMP Texture into the selected "Draw Inside" Shape. DIGITAL DOWNLOADS / TEXTURES GUIDE
SAVING SWATCHES: For those of you using Adobe Color, I recommend starting from the Explore Tab. If you have CC, you can Add to your Library. If you have an older version, download as an ASE File. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
OPENING LIBRARIES: Open your Library Panel. Select the Color Theme you would like to use. Right Click on the Color Theme to Add Theme to your Swatches Panel. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
OPENING SWATCHES: Open your Swatches Panel. In the Swatches Menu, drop down to Open Swatch Library. Select "Other Library" to open an ASE File saved on your computer. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / COLORING GUIDE
FINDING FONTS: For those of you using Adobe Fonts, I recommend starting from the Browse All, Trending, and Recommendations. I do recommend testing out the new Variable Fonts. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
SAVING FONTS: When you find a Font or Family you like, you can simply click the Add Family to your Account. The Fonts will be available across your Adobe Programs. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
SORTING FONTS: Have an idea of what you are looking for before looking for Fonts. Use the Categories and Tabs to sort through the Font Families. GETTING STARTED GUIDE / FONT GUIDE
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I appreciate your videos. I have been an illustrator user for years and have my own ways of doing things. It's great to see other ways of using tools and learning tricks I didn't know were available! It's also good to see you doing the same thing as me in other instances, confirming I'm on the right track!Andy Zenz
Awesome tutorial! I don't think I've picked up something so easily from someone who knows what they are doing. I managed to draw my first vector art and it was a joy! Great work keep it up!blitz145
Thank you loads! Compared to other tutorials, yours are just really well-explained and easy-to-follow. Can totally see that you've got a passion for what you're doing and that's just wonderful! 🙂 Keep it up, you're doing an amazing job. Yulia Kachurova
Love your video thanks so much. you blow Lynda.com out of the water!!!!Steve Yensel
Brilliant video. So much great info packed in here. I'm just getting started drawing cartoons with my Wacom tablet, and this was a huge help. Thumbs up and thanks!Dorian Staten
Wow Thanks Jason...was really struggling with making images with basic shapes. Your tutorial is helping me out!!Kishor Rajani
thanks a lot you are really one of my favorites, I like the steps you give us, and I'm so thankful for that effort you do for helping us :)Wessam Lotfi
Keep up the good work Jason. I’ve been doing Lynda.com tutorials for a few months now and I got more out of your videos than what I’ve received at Lynda. Keep it up and Thank You!!bobby jacobs • 1 year ago
These tutorials are amazing. Just started using illustrator and really glad I found your channel. The only videos that explain everything step by stepAida Stan
You are definitely one of the best teachers I've found dealing with start to finish creative process. Great work!!!Jasen Fisher
Thank you so much man, I loved the way you explain this, I spent days looking for a good tutorial vid, thanks a lot, gonna keep watching your videos!!!Karel Marccenaro
Awesome tutorial! I don't think I've picked up something so easily from someone who knows what they are doing. I managed to draw my first vector art and it was a joy! Great work keep it up!blitz145
Thank you loads! Compared to other tutorials, yours are just really well-explained and easy-to-follow. Can totally see that you've got a passion for what you're doing and that's just wonderful! 🙂 Keep it up, you're doing an amazing job. Yulia Kachurova
Love your video thanks so much. you blow Lynda.com out of the water!!!!Steve Yensel
Brilliant video. So much great info packed in here. I'm just getting started drawing cartoons with my Wacom tablet, and this was a huge help. Thumbs up and thanks!Dorian Staten
Keep up the good work Jason. I’ve been doing Lynda.com tutorials for a few months now and I got more out of your videos than what I’ve received at Lynda. Keep it up and Thank You!!bobby jacobs • 1 year ago
These tutorials are amazing. Just started using illustrator and really glad I found your channel. The only videos that explain everything step by stepAida Stan
You are definitely one of the best teachers I've found dealing with start to finish creative process. Great work!!!Jasen Fisher