Adobe Illustrator Course

Adobe Illustrator
Course Outline
1. Introduction to Adobe Illustrator (1.5 hours)
– Overview of the Illustrator workspace
– Introduction to tools and panels
– Basic navigation and setup
– Understanding document settings and preferences

2. Basic Drawing and Shape Tools (2 hours)
– Using selection tools (Selection, Direct Selection)
– Creating and modifying basic shapes (rectangles, ellipses, polygons)
– Understanding and applying transformations (move, scale, rotate)
– Basic path operations (combine, intersect, exclude)

3. Working with Colors (1.5 hours)
– Introduction to color modes (RGB, CMYK)
– Using the Color Picker and Swatches
– Applying and adjusting fills and strokes
– Creating and modifying gradients and gradient meshes

4. Typography Basics (1.5 hours)
– Adding and formatting text
– Exploring font types and styles
– Adjusting text alignment, spacing, and size
– Basic text effects and manipulation

5. Layers and Organization (1.5 hours)
– Understanding layers and layer management
– Using groups and layer effects
– Locking, hiding, and organizing layers
– Utilizing the Layers panel efficiently

6. Intermediate Drawing Techniques (2 hours)
– Mastering the Pen Tool for creating complex paths
– Using the Shape Builder and Pathfinder tools for shape manipulation
– Editing paths with the Anchor Point tool and handles
– Creating and managing compound paths

7. Advanced Typography (1.5 hours)
– Working with text on paths and shapes
– Creating text outlines and advanced text effects
– Exploring font resources and Typekit integration
– Advanced text formatting techniques

8. Image Tracing and Vectorization (1.5 hours)
– Using the Image Trace tool to convert raster images to vectors
– Adjusting tracing options and settings for optimal results
– Cleaning up and refining traced paths
– Converting and editing raster images

9. Applying Effects and Styles (2 hours)
– Applying Illustrator effects (shadows, glows, distortions)
– Using the Appearance panel to manage effects
– Creating and applying Graphic Styles
– Customizing effects and creating unique styles

10. Advanced Techniques (2 hours)
– Using symbols, brushes, and patterns
– Working with multiple Artboards
– Advanced masking techniques (clipping masks, opacity masks)
– Introduction to 3D effects and transformations

11. Project Work and Application (2 hours)
– Applying skills in a comprehensive project
– Developing a project from concept to completion
– Individual or group project work
– Feedback and troubleshooting

12. Exporting and Finalizing Artwork (1.5 hours)
– Preparing documents for different outputs (print, web, etc.)
– Exporting files in various formats (SVG, PNG, PDF, etc.)
– File management and organization tips
– Final project review and presentation