Illustrator Classes & Bootcamps Near Me

Adobe Illustrator is the most widely used vector graphics design application on the consumer market. It is used to create digital drawings of images using lines, points, shapes and arcs to create vibrant, recognizable, infinitely resizable illustrations for personal and commercial use. First released in 1985, the application has become the industry-standard in various creative design fields. It is one of the pillars of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of design applications alongside Photoshop and InDesign.

Why Learn Illustrator?

As graphic design has broadened to include content on websites, social media, and other digital platforms, more and more professionals find themselves needing to create basic web graphics. Whether you are a Social Media Manager creating stunning Instagram posts or a website Designer looking to refine a site’s visual identity, graphic design is crucial in connecting audiences with your message.

Mastering this field requires knowledge of basic graphic design and compositional principles, along with the tools of the trade needed to put them into practice. When considering these technical skills, there is perhaps no better place to start than learning Adobe Illustrator.

As part of Adobe’s incredibly popular Creative Cloud software suite, Illustrator is often considered the premier vector graphics editor today. Illustrator holds an upper hand over the competition as a vector-based editor by allowing users to create infinitely resizable graphic designs. If you are a Designer needing to create graphics that can appear on social media, print ads, and billboards alike, Illustrator is one of the most powerful tools for the job. The fact that the program is integrated into Creative Cloud, allowing users to move files from one creative program to another, makes learning this software all the more important for aspiring graphic designers.

What Can I Do with Adobe Illustrator?

Illustrator is an extremely flexible program that produces high-quality, professional vector graphics such as logos, icons, illustrations, and more. For creative artists and designers, Adobe Illustrator is a can’t-miss piece of software. With this application, you can create high-quality infographics, cartoons, graphic designs, and more.

While some illustration software is bitmap or pixel-based (such as Photoshop), Illustrator revolves around using vectors to create its shapes. This means that anything made in Illustrator can be resized infinitely with no loss of quality. That’s why logos are always created in Illustrator. This has huge implications. Resizing a logo made in a pixel-based program would create an unprofessional, pixelated and blurry look, whereas resizing an Illustrator-made vector logo will always look clear, clean, and crisp. Whether you want your graphic to fit onto a pen, a bag, or a billboard, Illustrator will keep your design as crisp as possible.

A cornerstone of Illustrator is its Pen tool. The Pen tool is used to draw vector paths/points, the basis for editing vectors (also called Bézier curves). It's not the only way to draw, though. Features such as Pathfinder let you quickly combine basic shapes into more complex shapes.

You also don't have to draw things within Illustrator. You can create physical hand sketches on paper and then scan them in (or take pictures of them). Illustrator's Live Trace feature converts the sketches into vector drawings. You can then edit and enhance them with Illustrator's various features.

Illustrator or Photoshop

Students looking to learn a new skill may want to consider how that skill compares to other comparable programs. For Illustrator, that means considering how it relates to Adobe Photoshop, the other significant graphic design tool in the Adobe Creative Cloud. The two programs are often learned alongside each other, but they serve very different purposes. Illustrator is a vector-graphics design program, meaning that it uses lines, points, shapes, and arcs to build its images. By contrast, Photoshop is a raster-graphics image program, meaning it uses pixels to display images. Vector-graphics images are easily-resized, meaning that they can be used in various contexts, which would be difficult with Photoshop since resizing the images will make them blockier. Raster-graphics images allow for greater detail, particularly in subtle gradients around the edges of objects, making the program better for building highly-detailed images that are ideally viewed in a single context (like in a magazine advertisement).

Ease of Use and Accessibility

One of the main advantages of learning Illustrator is that a student can receive basic training in the program and still be comfortable experimenting with it and using it for personal projects. Illustrator is an incredibly user-friendly tool, and with only a few hours of dedicated training, students can become comfortable using the program's basic features. This is important because experimentation and practice are vital parts of learning a creative skill, so students wanting to master Illustrator will need to be able to start drawing and iterating on their own illustrations early.

Since 2012, the Adobe Creative Cloud has been operating on a software-as-service model, meaning that anyone hoping to work with the program will need to pay a monthly licensing fee. While the price of a subscription is liable to change, students can anticipate paying about twenty dollars a month to access Illustrator or sixty dollars a month to access all of the programs in the Adobe Creative Cloud. 

Uses of Illustrator

Industry uses include but are not limited to logos, icons, patterns, fashion design, diagrams, signage, posters, ads, illustrations, product mock-ups, album covers, stickers, wallpaper, postcards, and just about anything that marries text and graphics together.

Adobe Illustrator also offers seamless integrations with some of Adobe’s other Creative Cloud apps. An image from Photoshop can be imported to Illustrator and worked on there, and if a user needs to change the original Photoshop file, it will automatically update within Illustrator. You can take something created in Illustrator, import it into After Effects, and animate it. If you later alter the original Illustrator file, you can update it within After Effects.

Jobs or a Career Using Illustrator

Adobe apps are among the most widely used tools for professional creatives, so having proficiency will make you an asset to any organization. Because Adobe programs share similar methodologies and interfaces, learning one makes leaping to the next easy. On top of that, projects can be used and linked through multiple Creative Cloud programs. It is hard to find any sort of media work that does not include some work from Illustrator, and knowing how to use it will make you an invaluable creative artist. Illustrator offers creative flexibility and workflow that makes it not just a great vector program but one of the best in the industry.

Learning to use Adobe Illustrator will not only teach you new skills and make you far more desirable within the job market but impart a whole new world of options and techniques for any media project you wish to take on.

Given the versatility of graphic design skills in today’s digital marketplace, Illustrator is an incredibly important technical foundation for various careers. While learning Illustrator itself is not typically enough to jump-start an entirely new career, professionals can access design careers across various industries by combining Illustrator expertise with theoretical training in graphic design. Most Graphic Designers use multiple Adobe Creative Cloud applications, commonly Photoshop and InDesign. In addition, since Illustrator is a creative tool students will need to study artistic techniques as well as learning how to use the tools of the trade. Students will need to learn design principles like color theory and composition theory to succeed in Illustrator-related careers.

According to recent job listings nationwide, there are a number of Illustrator-related jobs for which experts in the software are qualified. For example, in addition to qualifying for traditional design positions, Illustrator users can also find work as user interface (UI) and web visual designers, which can pay anywhere from $50,000 to $85,000 per year. In some cases, director-level design positions at major companies can pay even more than that—as much as $100,000 per year.

What Will You Learn in an Illustrator Class? 

In an Illustrator class, students dive into the world of vector graphics and graphic design, gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to create stunning illustrations, logos, icons, and various visual elements for both print and digital media. Adobe Illustrator, a widely used vector graphics software, is the primary tool used in these cases, offering a robust platform for creative expression. Here’s some of what you can learn in an Adobe Illustrator course. 

• Introduction to Adobe Illustrator. Students will familiarize themselves with the Illustrator interface, tools, and panels. They’ll navigate and customize their workspace for their workflow. 

• Vector graphics vs. raster graphics. Students will come to understand the fundamental difference between vector and raster images. They’ll learn the advantages of vector graphics for scalability and quality. 

• Creating and editing shapes. They’ll learn how to draw basic shapes and lines. Students will explore the Pathfinder tools for combining and manipulating shapes. 

• Working with colors and gradients. Students will learn color theory and the use of the Color Picker and Swatches panel. They’ll learn how to create and edit gradients for dynamic visual effects. 

• Typography and text effects. Students will learn how to add and format text using the Type tool. They’ll learn how to create stylized text effects such as warping and outlining. 

• Precision and alignment. Students will learn how to use grids, guides, and smart guide for precise alignment. They’ll master the Align and Distribute tools for layout control. 

• Working with layers. Students will learn how to organize artwork with layers for efficient editing. They’ll use layer blending modes and opacity settings. 

• Drawing and editing paths. Students will explore the Pen tool for creating custom shapes and paths. They’ll learn techniques for editing and refining paths. 

• Illustrator effects and filters. Students will learn how to apply various effects like drop shadows, blurs, and glows. They’ll work with raster effects and the Appearance panel. 

• Creating complex artwork. Students will combine multiple elements into intricate designs. They’ll use the Shape Builder and Pathfinder tools for more complex shapes. 

• Working with symbols and patterns. Students will create and manage symbol libraries for reusable assets. They’ll design seamless patterns for backgrounds and textures. 

• Artboards and exporting. Students will set up multiple artboards in a single document. They’ll export artwork for print and web in various formats. 

• Vector tracing and image trace. Students will convert raster images into vector graphics. They’ll adjust and optimize traced artwork. 

• Responsive design and SVG export. Students will design scalable vector graphics (SVG) for web and mobile applications. They’ll ensure graphics look sharp on various screen sizes. 

• Integration with other Adobe Applications. Students will import and export content between Illustrator and other Adobe Creative Cloud applications like Photoshop and InDesign. 

• Real-world projects and practical applications. Students will apply acquired skills to create logos, illustrations, infographics, and more. They’ll develop a portfolio of work to showcase their Illustrator proficiency. 

• Tips, tricks, and best practices. Students will learn time-saving shortcuts and techniques. They’ll explore design principles, composition, and creativity in graphic design. 

• Troubleshooting and workflow optimization. Students will overcome common issues and errors. They’ll streamline their workflow for efficiency and productivity. 

In addition to the core curriculum, Illustrator classes often encourage creativity and exploration, allowing students to apply their newly acquired skills to real-world design challenges. Aspiring graphic designers, illustrators, web designers, and anyone interested in creating visually engaging content can benefit from the comprehensive training offered in Illustrator classes. 

How Hard is It to Learn Illustrator? 

Learning Adobe Illustrator can vary in difficulty depending on your prior experience with design software and your specific goals. Illustrator is a powerful vector graphics editor used by professionals in various fields, including graphic design, illustration, web design, and more. Here are some of the factors that influence the ease or difficulty of learning Illustrator. 

• Prior experience. Your background in design and familiarity with other design software can significantly impact your learning curve. If you’ve used similar programs like Photoshop or InDesign, you may find some commonalities in Adobe’s interface and tools, making the transition smoother. 

• Interface and tools. Illustrator has a complex interface with numerous tools and panels. Beginners may initially feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. However, the organized layout and consistent naming conventions make it easier to find and learn specific tools over time. 

• Vector vs. raster graphics. Illustrator focuses on vector graphics, which use mathematical equations to define shapes. This is different from raster graphics (used in programs like Photoshop) which are pixel-based. Understanding the concept of vectors and their advantages can be a learning curve for some. 

• Tutorials and learning resources. The availability of high-quality tutorials and learning resources can significantly affect how hard it is to learn Illustrator. Adobe offers extensive official documentation and tutorials, and there’s a wealth of user-generated content online. Following structured courses or guides can make learning more manageable. 

• Practice and patience. Like any creative skill, proficiency in Illustrator requires practice and patience. You’ll need to experiment with various tools, explore design principles, and develop your style. Consistent practice can help you gain confidence and expertise. 

• Complexity of projects. The difficulty of learning Illustrator can also depend on the complexity of your intended projects. Basic tasks like creating simple shapes and text are relatively easy to graph, but advanced tasks such as intricate vector illustrations, logo design, or detailed typography may require more time and effort to master. 

• Keyboard shortcuts. Learning keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow in Illustrator. While mastering all of them takes time, gradually incorporating shortcuts for commonly used tools and commands can make your experience smoother. 

• Updates and features. Adobe Illustrator regularly receives updates with new features and improvements. Staying up-to-date with these changes can be an ongoing part of your learning journey. 

• Creativity and artistry. Illustrator isn’t just about technical skills; it’s also about unleashing your creativity. Learning to visualize and execute your artistic ideas can be both challenging and rewarding. 

• Community and support. Joining design communities, forums, or local design groups can provide support and inspiration. Interacting with fellow Illustrator users can help you overcome challenges and exchange valuable tips and techniques. 

In summary, learning Adobe Illustrator can be as easy or as challenging as you make it. Your prior experience, commitment to practice, access to learning resources, and the complexity of your projects all play a role. While you can start using Illustrator for basic tasks relatively quickly, becoming a proficient and skilled user may take more time and effort. Ultimately, the journey of learning Illustrator is an exciting and creative one, and with dedication and patience, you can achieve your design goals. 

Is It Worth It to Take an Illustrator Class?

Taking an Illustrator class can be a highly worthwhile investment, depending on your goals and circumstances. Adobe Illustrator is a versatile and powerful vector graphics software widely used in various industries, including graphic design, illustration, web design, and more. Here are some of the reasons why enrolling in an Illustrator class can be beneficial. 

• Structured learning. Illustrator classes provide a structured and organized approach to learning the software. This structure can help you build a solid foundation, progressing from basic to advanced skills in a logical sequence. This is especially beneficial for beginners who may find the software initially overwhelming. 

• In-depth knowledge. Professional Illustrator instructors often have a deep understanding of software and can guide you through its features, tools, and techniques more effectively than self-learning through online tutorials. They can provide insights, tips, and tricks that may not be readily available in free resources. 

• Hands-on practice. Classes typically include hands-on exercises and projects, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned to a practical context. This active learning approach can help reinforce your skills and boost your confidence. 

• Feedback and guidance. Instructors can provide valuable feedback on your work, helping you identify areas for improvement and offering guidance on how to achieve your design goals. This personalized feedback is often missing in self-paced learning. 

• Networking opportunities. Illustrator classes often attract individuals with similar interests and career goals. This provides an excellent opportunity to network with fellow students, share experiences, and potentially collaborate on projects in the future. 

• Access to resources. Many Illustrator classes offer access to software licenses during the course, which can be cost-effective if you don’t already own the software. Additionally, some classes provide course materials and resources that you can reference even after the class has ended. 

• Time efficiency. While self-learning through online tutorials and resources is possible, it can be time-consuming and less efficient. Illustrator classes are designed to teach you efficiently, saving you time and helping you reach your goals more quickly. 

• Increased job opportunities. If you’re considering a career in design or a related field, having formal training in Illustrator can be a valuable asset on your resume. Many employers prefer candidates with formal design education or training. 

• Creative inspiration. Being in a learning environment with like-minded individuals and a skilled instructor can spark creativity and inspire you to explore new design possibilities and techniques. 

• Overcoming challenges. Adobe Illustrator can be complex, and beginners may encounter frustrating challenges. In a class setting, you can ask questions and seek help when you’re stuck, helping you overcome obstacles more effectively. 

• Professional certification. Some Illustrator classes offer certification upon completion. Earning a recognized certification can be a valuable credential in your design career and may open doors to job opportunities. 

While Illustrator classes offer numerous advantages, it’s essential to consider your personal circumstances and goals. Factors such as your budget, time availability, and preferred learning style should be taken into account when deciding whether to take a class. Additionally, it’s worth researching and choosing a reputable class or educational institution with experienced instructors. 

Learning Illustrator

In-Person Illustrator Classes

Since Illustrator is increasingly a skill being picked up by professionals outside of graphic design, there are plenty of ways to learn the software today. However, which option is best for your learning goals, from in-person classes to virtual courses? 

Many students find in-person instruction preferable to online instruction since they find the classroom design preferable to alternatives. These in-person courses let students work directly with instructors and classmates, which is an invaluable resource when learning a skill like Illustrator. Learning the program is the easy part. The challenge comes in learning how to apply graphic design techniques using the program. This requires students to frequently iterate on their designs and receive feedback on their work, which they can receive directly from their colleagues and instructors in an in-person training program. The drawback to these courses is that students can only enroll in classes that they can physically attend, which can limit students’ options if they don’t live in major metropolitan areas.

While options vary depending on the city, learners in most major American cities have options to master Illustrator in an in-person classroom environment. Nationally, two of the largest providers of in-person Illustrator classes are New Horizons and Ledet Training, which serves most of the major metropolitan areas across the country. While New Horizons offers a two-level Illustrator course, Ledet Training offers both beginner and advanced training in the program, including a five-day Illustrator bootcamp.

Virtual Illustrator Classes

While in-person classes are great for some learners, they may not offer the full flexibility that a student juggling other priorities in a busy schedule may need. Students in this situation should consider the benefits a virtual course can offer them. In addition to offering the same high-quality instruction one would traditionally associate with an in-person course, virtual courses allow students to complete lessons and assignments remotely. Students will still be able to receive feedback and assistance on their work, but they will be able to do so while learning on their personal devices, which can be a boon when learning a creative program. The drawback to these classes is that students will need to take steps to avoid distractions, and they will need to supply their own software, which can become cumbersome for some students.

As a leading provider of in-person and virtual tech education for over three decades, Noble Desktop is proud to offer virtual Illustrator classes for learners looking to jump-start their graphic design portfolio. Foremost among these classes is the Illustrator Bootcamp, which covers everything learners need to know about the software’s basic and advanced functions. Students enrolled in this course will learn the basics of using the pen tools to illustrate images in the application. They will also receive training in creating different types of graphics, including logos, typography, packaging and brand iconography. Finally, they will learn how to export these files to other programs or to prepare them for publication.

Students aiming for a more comprehensive, career-focused education can enroll in Noble’s ||CPN548|| program. This course will prepare students for a career in graphic design by teaching them important design principles (theories of color, composition, typography, etc.) and how to use and integrate tools like Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. This course aims to prepare students to enter the job market and, as such, provides students with professionalization support in the form of one-on-one career mentorship sessions and portfolio-building training seminars. By the end of this course, students with no prior design experience will be ready to start applying for Graphic Designer positions.

A large collection of other training providers offer beginner-friendly and advanced live online InDesign classes. These providers include ONLC, New Horizons, Ledet Training, Lumenbrite, Training Connection and many others. To help learners make this decision, Noble Desktop has created a tool that allows users to compare online and in-person Illustrator courses available in their area.

Noble Desktop’s affiliate companies also provide virtual training in Illustrator. For example, NYIM Training’s virtual Illustrator classes include a popular ||CPN574|| course that covers the program’s basics, while NYC Career Centers’ Illustrator courses include single-class and intensive bootcamp options for aspiring graphic design professionals.

Noble Desktop is also proud to offer Illustrator courses tailored to high school students. If you want to master the software, consider enrolling in NextGen Bootcamp Summer online Illustrator classes for high schoolers.

What You’ll Learn in an Illustrator Class

Logo Design

Adobe Illustrator is a great vector-based graphics program, and is the industry standard. Being vector-based, this means that any content created within the program is infinitely resizable, with no loss in quality or pixelization. Due to that, Illustrator is widely used for logo creation.

In a beginner class, things like understanding how to make shapes and work with text will be covered. Knowing what vectors are and how to use the Pen tool to make them is important. The basics of typography and design concepts will be introduced as well as layers, stroke, and fill. An example of a design developed in a beginner class could be a cat silhouette with the text “Cat Cafe” under it. For a toy store, a teddy bear shape could be made that holds the store’s name in its arms.

An intermediate course will further explore typography and design, bringing in blending modes, using the Pathfinder to combine basic shapes into more complex shapes, and using masks to hide unwanted areas. Photoshop files will be used as well. With this expanded toolkit and knowledge, more complex designs can be developed. For instance, a flower shop logo could have flower petals overlapping in a rainbow, or a cafe could have text shaped to look like a cinnamon bun. The cafe logo could even have a Photoshop texture of a real bun overlaid onto it using a mask.

Advanced courses will explore the tremendous power of the Appearance panel, which allows designers to add multiple strokes and fills, as well as a wide variety of effects. Combining these design options, logo designers can create striking visuals while everything remains editable so they can experiment more quickly with different ideas. One of the effects turns text and shapes into 3D objects. These 3D shapes can be used in designs, or art can be mapped onto the surface of the 3D object. For example a logo for a drink company could make a 3D can with their logo on it to help visualize the final product.

Illustration

Adobe Illustrator is the industry standard for vector graphics. Because vectors are resizable with no pixelation or loss in quality, they’re an excellent option for illustration.

In a beginner course, participants will learn how to use the Pen tool, how to create basic shapes and start to learn design concepts. Layers will be covered, and strokes/fills will be explored. An example of a beginner level illustration with these features can be a picture of a donut with sprinkles or a cartoon rabbit head. These kinds of pieces, though simple in concept, can be perfect for logo design.

For an intermediate class, layer styles will be a topic, as well as using the Pathfinder to combine basic shapes into more complex shapes. Students will start working with other Adobe programs, like Photoshop, to create more complex pieces. With the Image Trace feature, they can convert photos or hand-made drawings into striking looking vectors. With these tools, more intricate illustrations can be achieved. For example, a cityscape background could be drawn and imported into After Effects for animation. More detailed figures, like a dinosaur or a car, can be created, suitable for being brought into Photoshop for effects and modification. They can also be exported to InDesign to be used in a book layout.

Advanced courses will introduce the Perspective tool, good for creating environment pieces. Freeform gradients will allow for more subtle coloration, and cross-program functionality with other Adobe programs will be explored further. Full-on environment scenes like a concert hall or landscape are examples, suitable for a poster design. Projects like intricate nature scenes edited in Photoshop are an option, perfect for use in a website.

Graphic Design

Adobe Illustrator is a go-to program for any Graphic Designer. Being vector-based, graphics created within the program are resizable to any scale without any loss in quality. Graphic designers use multiple design apps, but this article will focus on Illustrator and how it relates to the field.

A beginner course will start with understanding the basics of typography and vector drawing, learning how to use the Pen tool, shape tools, and layers. Instructors will cover the differences between vector and bitmap (pixel-based) graphics. At this level, for example, a simple logo such as a cupcake with text underneath it can be created. Another idea could be a crown for a princess-themed toy line.

Intermediate classes will cover how to create text on a curve, using the Pathfinder to combine basic shapes into more complex shapes, and cross-program functionality with apps such as Photoshop or After Effects. These programs will allow designers to create bold textured graphics or animate designs. Image Trace will be a discussed feature, giving users the ability to convert photos or hand-made drawings into striking vector images. At this level, more detailed work can be created. For instance, a Designer could create a nature poster with Photoshop textures for a local park initiative. Another project could be an intricate figure of a tiger, set up to be animated in After Effects.

Advanced courses will explore the tremendous power of the Appearance panel, which allows designers to add multiple strokes and fills, as well as a wide variety of effects. Combining these design options on shapes or type, designers can create striking visuals while everything remains editable so they can experiment more quickly with different ideas. Freeform gradients will allow for more subtle coloration, and cross-program functionality with other Adobe programs will be explored further.

Packaging Design

Adobe Illustrator is widely used within the packaging industry to create professional, appealing designs. Understanding packaging design concepts such as die cuts and package layout are important topics discussed throughout courses.

Beginner classes will start with learning typography, drawing, and design concepts, along with the Text and Pen tools. Being able to understand how the shape and visuals of a package affect its marketability is important. Students will be able to create labels and packages such as rectangular postcard boxes and oval ice cream containers at this level.

Intermediate courses will expound upon the Appearance panel to work with multiple strokes, fills, and effects, as well as working with Photoshop files, and masks. Understanding how packages are made is important, as each shape affects the design of its graphics. Projects like a fast food container or a monthly subscription box are some examples of intermediate level packaging design. These can have Photoshop texture overlays, Illustrator made die-cut designs, and striking vector visuals to increase their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

In an advanced course, students are encouraged to innovate on typical designs, like a wine package with flowers carved into the side, or a jewelry box that unfolds in an origami-like fashion. Understanding laser cutting and die cut machines is part of packaging design. Both of these methods produce clean, precision cuts and require a vector file to operate. Along with learning the freeform gradients and the Perspective tool, advanced packaging design students will integrate their skills with Photoshop and InDesign. Creating vector graphics within Illustrator, developing the layout in InDesign, and editing the piece in Photoshop is one example.

Product Mockups

Adobe Illustrator is an excellent vector graphics program used widely for product mockups. Before committing to a physical item, designers often use Photoshop and Illustrator to create a “what-if” design, allowing them to work out any potential problems as well as get an idea of what their product will look like. As Illustrator excels in creating clean, graphic designs, many turn to it as their go-to option when developing a product.

In a beginner course, topics such as the Pen tool, text, shapes, and layers will be covered. An example of a project made at this level is a child’s placemat or a geographical map of the world for a classroom. Stickers can be designed as well within Illustrator using its basic tools.

An intermediate course will cover compound shapes, and how to design a product from multiple angles. Students will start to work in conjunction with Photoshop as well. For instance, a product mockup at the intermediate level would be a phone case. The structure would be delineated within Illustrator, and the graphics would be an integrated design between Illustrator vector graphics and Photoshop’s more painterly aesthetic. Another intermediate product mockup design would be a shoe design. With Illustrator’s clean graphics, shoes can be designed at multiple, easy to read angles. Photoshop would be used to introduce textures and effects to the design.

Advanced classes teach students about Illustrator’s 3D tools and freeform gradients, as well as further instruction on Adobe cross-program workflow. Understanding more of how to integrate Photoshop and InDesign into their product mockup work will streamline designers’ processes and give them greater flexibility. For instance, a Designer can create a custom guitar case within Illustrator to start with. The print can be designed in Photoshop, then combined with the Illustrator file. A book jacket design can have artwork created in Illustrator and Photoshop, then have its layout completed in InDesign.

What Should You Consider Learning Alongside Illustrator? 

Students of Illustrator may benefit from learning graphic design principles. Understanding design principles like balance, contrast, alignment, and hierarchy is crucial. These principles apply to all design work and will help you create visually appealing and effective designs. 

Noble Desktop offers a course called ||CPN548||. In this class, students will learn to edit and retouch photos in Photoshop, craft stunning vector graphics in Illustrator, and design captivating page layouts using InDesign. They’ll dive deep into design fundamentals, exploring typography, color theory, composition, and design principles. As they progress, they’ll embark on hands-on projects, including social media graphics, logos, and cover art. 

Students may also be interested in learning color theory. Students will learn how to use color effectively, including concepts like color harmony, contrast, and the psychological impact of colors. Adobe Illustrator has robust color tools, and knowing how to use them is essential. 

The 92nd Street Y offers a class called Color Theory: Seeing Color Through Paint. This course is designed for artists looking to enhance their skills in color theory. Students will explore both the basics and advanced concepts of color theory using both opaque and transparent media, with a focus on watercolor and acrylic paint techniques. Through hands-on exercises and practical applications, they’ll learn how to mix and apply colors effectively in their artwork. 

Students may also be interested in learning Photoshop. While Illustrator is ideal for vector graphics, Adobe Photoshop is a raster-based program used for image editing and manipulation. Learning Photoshop alongside Illustrator expands your capabilities in working with different types of graphics. 

Noble Desktop offers a class called ||CPN714||. This six hour crash course is designed for beginners and casual users who want to quickly grasp the fundamentals of Photoshop. In this class, students will learn essential skills such as photo retouching, graphic creation, and adjusting contrast and color. The class will also cover techniques like removing unwanted elements from photos and making selections.

Another topic that may be of interest is Adobe InDesign. Adobe InDesign is used for layout design, especially for print materials like brochures, magazines, and books. Understanding InDesign can complement your design skills and allow you to create complex publications. 

Plexus Creative offers a course called Introduction to Adobe InDesign. This course covers essential document creation and customization skills. Students will learn about page setup, typography, color application, and handling graphics. They’ll also delve into vector shapes, styles for texts and objects, and transforming elements. Students will discover how to prepare files for print and screen, and create interactive PDFs and web documents. 

Finally, students may be interested in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. If you’re interested in web and app design, learning about UI and UX design principles is essential. Software like Adobe XD can be helpful for this.

Noble Desktop offers a UX and UI Design Certificate for interested students. Students will learn the essentials of user-centered design from experienced instructors. They’ll explore user research and testing techniques, design web pages and apps, and create clickable prototypes for user testing and client feedback. They’ll also develop a portfolio to showcase their best work online and receive guidance on building a portfolio website and resume to prepare for potential job opportunities.