Illustrator CC or CS Training

Illustrator CS or Creative Cloud

Illustrator is an important software to have in your tool kit if you are interested in vector graphics. Don't be fooled by its name, it's actually a very versatile program that can be used for many purposes.

If you are designing a logo, you'll almost certainly want to do it in illustrator. If you want to create line art, pop art, textiles, patterns, architectural drawings, art for Flash, or any style with sharp, crisp lines, you'll most certainly be interested in Illustrator. But Illustrator is also great (and and usually smarter than Photoshop) for creating page layouts for posters, flyers, postcards, cds, business cards, letterhead, etc. Lastly, Illustrator is a tool for creating web graphics or even complete web page mockups.

Bitmap vs. Vector vs. Page Layout

Understanding the file formats is key to knowing what software to use for a project. For a good explanation on this, please see my blog posting: So just what do I need to know?

Lessons and Training

As a professional designer for both print and web, I have an in depth knowledge of Illustrator to share. Many types of people including graphic designers, artists, web designers, students and business professionals have greatly improved their understanding of Illustrator through of our lessons. We will focus on your needs and the way you need to use Illustrator for your particular work. If you are just getting started or feel you have some gaps in your knowledge, I will help you with the fundamentals and help you round off your skills. If you already know what you need, I will help answer your questions and get you past your hurdles.

Topics can include but aren't limited to:

• Illustrator for graphic designers, artists or web designers
• Beginner to Strong Intermediate
• Learning and customizing the workspace
• Understanding vector graphics and other file formats
• Learning the tools and pallets
• Creating shapes, and their hidden tricks
• Pen tool
• Paint brush
• Pathfinder
• Making custom brushes, patterns and symbols
• Coloring
• Gradients
• Gradient mesh
• Live trace and live paint
• Effects, filters and the Appearance pallet
• Compound paths
• Blends
• Masking
• Layers
• Typography
• Type on a path
• Many types of real world graphics techniques, tips and tricks
• Creating a brochure or other layout
• Good drawing technique
• Using a drawing tablet
• Slicing and preparing graphics for the web
• Soft proofing and color management
• Preparing for professional offset printing, or high quality inkjet printing
• Transfering files and working with Photoshop, Indesign, Flash or Dreamweaver.
• Keyboard shortcuts
• Adobe Bridge
• Lots more!

For pricing and more information, see Lessons and Training.