Month / January 2023

by Prof. Miller

Artboards + Layers101

Think of Artboards as pieces of paper. You can rearrange, you can have one for “sketches” and one for finished design, you can have multiple pages (with different sized papers) and rearrange them.

General help:

https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/how-to/visual-dictionary-artboard.html#:~:text=Select%20the%20Artboard%20tool%20in,artboard%20with%20the%20Artboard%20tool.

https://illustratorhow.com/what-is-artboard/

https://maschituts.com/how-to-rearrange-artboards-in-illustrator/

Layers

They are entirely different than Photoshop layers. Organize from the beginning to prevent things getting crazy?

https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/using/layers.html

by Prof. Miller

Project 1: Cartoon Me!

For our introduction project, I’m trying something new this semester “From Sketch to Vector”

I noticed a trend on Behance.net of these photos with vector additions. I think it’s a great way for you to get started in Illustrator learning the tools and what is possible.

Great process video that shows how to get from sketch to vector

Assignment details: In our introductory design project, you will sketch and design a self-portrait to represent you and introduce your style/personality to the class. Your design can be serious, funny or abstract, but should evoke some emotion. You will produce TWO designs: they can display two different sides of your personality or be more of a diptych.

This project will introduce you to Illustrator and get you more comfortable with the tool bar.

I really liked this online tutorial for its simplicity.

Design goals: Produce a unique design that shows technical skills in the pen tool, addition of an aesthetically pleasing color scheme and a basic general beginning knowledge of Illustrator.

1. Watch previously assigned intro videos + Check out Chapter 5: Drawing Basics in the PDF textbook (if needed)

2. Take a photo specifically for this assignment. Think about composition, angle, color scheme, etc. Be your own Film Director!

3. How can you use the pen tool, brushes and shape builder, etc to illustrate your personality? Keep half photographic, half vector illustrations. (if its 60/40% thats fine, it doesn’t have to be exactly 50/50%)

Files should be 8.5″ x 11″ and uploaded as a final versions: toonme.pdf to the Canvas Assignment.


I do not need your .ai files (working files) – but you do!

Here’s a link to my previous Project 1 of many years.. switching it up is good. But happy to show you as many student examples as possible.

PROJECT DUE: FEB 8