Learn how to draw and edit vector graphics using Adobe Illustrator. This course covers the basics and advanced features, including the Pen tool, effects, layers, masks, and more. Perfect for creating logos, icons, and packaging.
Begin your journey as a professional graphic designer by learning the essential skills and tools used by industry experts. Gain hands-on experience in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, and create a stunning portfolio to showcase your talent to potential employers or clients.
Build professional-level Illustrator skills and earn your Adobe Certified Professional credential through hands-on classes, private tutoring, and real-world projects. This certification program covers everything from vector drawing to logo design, giving you the tools to succeed on the exam.
Adobe Illustrator is one of the most popular Adobe programs for creatives. Illustrator allows users to design, create, and edit vector graphics, charts, posters, illustrations, and different forms of artwork that can be used in different forms of entertainment, advertising, and education. The designs, graphics, and logos created on Illustrator are created freehand and are entirely scalable, which is partly why many professionals and creative hobbyists alike use it frequently. Not to mention, businesses across all industries look for Adobe Illustrator experts to assist in a variety of creative, design-based tasks. Illustrator is relatively user-friendly and extremely versatile as well, making it an incredibly popular program for professionals and hobbyists alike. Users can endlessly create and export files, use tools to develop these hand-drawn images, and receive assistance through the Adobe Illustrator Help & Support channels.
In addition, Adobe Illustrator has made great strides since its introduction in 1987, to the point where it has ultimately found itself at the center of the design world. Adobe Illustrator is a primary application for Graphic Designers, Marketers, Engineers, Architects, and other career paths that require prototypes and sketches in the beginning stages of design and creation. Illustrator lets the user draw with different brushes, pencils, and pens as well as add layers, color gradients, shapes, and text styles. The Illustrator library is extensive and the tools are incredibly versatile, so users can create the exact image, logo, or infographic that they are trying to produce. With this in mind, it is easy to see why Adobe remains one of the leading, most trusted software companies.
There are many ways to use Adobe Illustrator and, with the right training, use it to its fullest capabilities. Many creative design professionals use Adobe Illustrator and related products in their weekly tasks. Having professional-level experience may take additional training, but it is worthwhile if finding a career is your ultimate goal. In addition, learning new skills can potentially lead to higher-paying positions and more career opportunities. Illustrator experts can be found in many industries and across different fields, so there are plenty of options regardless of your desired career path. Illustrator training can also lead to career advancement, depending on your level of training and the position.
Learning Adobe Illustrator for personal, creative expression is worthwhile as well. If you have a side hustle, you could learn Illustrator to help build a personal brand on social media platforms and other digital spaces. This is a great way to market products and services, or simply share personalized content. Gaining skills in Illustrator may also be a fun way to keep up with a digital blog or online journal. Illustrator allows users to add a personal touch through the ability to add graphics, logos, and drawings. Illustrator training can help with a personal project or simply serve as a creative outlet, whichever your preference.
Plus, many students learn transferable skills while learning how to use Illustrator. For example, students may often learn design principles, which can be useful when using other applications like Adobe Premiere Pro or Photoshop. They may also learn geometric principles, precision, and collaboration. In addition, Illustrator can also lead users to learn more about marketing and advertising strategies from having to understand how specific audiences may interpret a design or sketch. Adobe Illustrator can open the door for freelance work as well or even opening your own side business as a Digital Illustrator or Graphic Designer. With the right Illustrator training, users can expect a world of opportunities to open before them.
Each Adobe Illustrator class is different, but many teach or review the same basic skills. For example, many Illustrator classes will go through various keyboard shortcuts and tools. In addition, design principles and successful branding tactics may be a focal point, especially if the Illustrator class is an advanced-level course or a certificate program. Of course, many instructors will stress the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor while working, planning for projects appropriately, and continually working to achieve a better sketch. These skills are just a few of the many useful bits of knowledge that are discussed in Adobe Illustrator classes.
Among some of the more useful skills one can expect to learn in an Adobe Illustrator class are the basic principles of design. Many Illustrator classes will discuss the difference between an effective graphic and one that needs more work. Alignment, proximity, hierarchy, repetition, and balance are a few basic design principles that help users create infographics and logos that are eye-catching yet successful in conveying their intended message. Many Illustrator instructors will guide students through the design process as well as discuss important tools and techniques in Illustrator. This combination of creative and technical skill-building can be found in many Adobe Illustrator classes. This includes color theory, shapes, and various themes.
Illustrator is relatively user-friendly, but users can have an even easier time using the interface once they know the keyboard shortcuts. Adobe Illustrator, much like many other Adobe products, has keyboard shortcuts that make creating, editing, and sharing graphics easier. These increase productivity and user-friendliness as they streamline many of the more tedious processes. In particular, there are simplistic commands such as copy, which can be performed by simultaneously pressing ‘CTRL + C’ or ‘Command + C’, depending on whether the user has Windows or macOS. There are more advanced shortcuts as well such as ‘Shift + V’ to use the Perspective Selection tool. Learning these shortcuts can make the illustration process easier, more enjoyable, and seamless.
Adobe Illustrator comes with a bounty of useful tools that allow users to create beyond their imaginations. Many Illustrator classes will cover the basic tools and then some such as the Pen and Paintbrush tools. These are essential to learn to start the drawing process. They can create shapes, sketches, and editable drawings. There are also tools specifically for text-based animations and graphics. The Type tool allows users to add a personal flair to any logo or drawing. Students will also learn Layers, which is a panel that enables users to create nearly any kind of graphic and is arguably one of the more beneficial and necessary tools for Illustrator users to learn. Beginner-level courses will teach these tools and more, whereas higher-level courses will go into even more depth and offer more insight into the functions and features behind Illustrator.
Although Adobe Illustrator can be used for projects outside of the world of marketing, many Graphic Designers and marketing professionals use Adobe Illustrator regularly. Because Illustrator allows users to create logos, infographics, illustrations, and images both quickly and easily, many companies and businesses use the program and hire experts who know their way around the Illustrator interface. Some Adobe Illustrator classes may combine marketing tactics with Illustrator skills and will show marketing professionals the best way to communicate their product or service to the intended audience. By making the company recognizable through creative and unique designs, customers are more likely to interact with the product and may even feel compelled to revisit the brand, repurchase products, or share their experience through word of mouth.
Plus, many professionals who use Adobe Illustrator work in spaces that may require collaboration, teamwork, patients, and time management. If you choose to work as a Graphic Designer, Web Designer, Digital Marketer, or other form of digital creator, you may need some soft skills such as time management, project planning, communication, patients, and persistence. In an Adobe Illustrator class, some instructors will show students ways to maintain and use their time wisely through the use of tricks and tips. In addition, being able to manage a project, or multiple projects at once, may prove useful depending on the line of work you eventually enter. Plus, learning any new skill comes with a learning curve, so students will often be reminded to stay calm and continually work on their skills to achieve the level of expertise desired.
Learning Adobe Illustrator is completely possible with the right training and mindset. However, there is a distinction between learning surface-level material and becoming proficient. Becoming familiar with Illustrator is easier than becoming an expert and can be accomplished within a few hours to a week. To learn more advanced tools and functions, students will likely need more hands-on training opportunities and thorough instruction. This could potentially take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the level of experience and your intended outcome after studying Illustrator. Although learning any new skill can pose challenges, anyone can learn Adobe Illustrator as long as they can dedicate time and effort to their studies.
Students may approach different challenges while learning Illustrator. Specifically, certain tools may require extra time and effort to perfect. For instance, the Pen tool is one of the most widely used tools in Illustrator due to its versatility but can also be relatively challenging. It requires precision and a steady hand to make straight lines, perfect shapes, and items with smooth curvatures. In addition, the Appearance Palette is incredibly powerful but can be tricky. It allows the user to create graphic styles in a single vector, thus negating the need to redraw certain items. This is practical but may take time to perfect. Overall, these tools and techniques are important to learning Adobe Illustrator and will be discussed at length in almost any Illustrator course to make the learning process less challenging.
The length of time it takes to learn Adobe Illustrator depends on several factors: the student’s end goal, the time they can dedicate to the learning process, and the level of expertise they wish to attain. It takes less time to simply become comfortable with Illustrator, but mastering the program and using it professionally will certainly take more time. For example, understanding the interface and learning the basics can take a few hours to a few days. However, gaining more advanced-level skills takes time. There are courses, bootcamps, and workshops that last a few weeks or a few months, which generally provide more thorough instruction that can be applied to the workplace. Before choosing an Illustrator class, consider your learning needs, intended goals, and schedule so you can have the most beneficial learning experience.
There are many ways to learn Adobe Illustrator. Cities all across the country offer classes, both in-person and online, as well as private or group training options. However, there are differences with each training method, just as there are differences with each course. These are important to consider before choosing a class. In-person classes offer an interactive, hands-on environment where the instructor can answer questions and troubleshoot any issues alongside the students. In addition, there are often small class sizes that promote more interaction between peers. On the other hand, online classes are more accessible to those who live in smaller towns and less populated areas. Plus, this classroom format is ideal for those who still want interactivity and feedback in real time but prefer to learn from the comfort of their own home. Both options provide thorough instruction, but with differences that may impact your ability to absorb information depending on your typical learning style.
Asynchronous learning is also an option but one that requires a lot more from the student. This is a far fewer hands-on approach that allows students to complete assignments and class material at their own pace. While ideal for those who have limited time to dedicate to learning a new skill, this requires the student to be fully dedicated, as no one will be there to assist them with the course material. In addition, the main incentive to complete the coursework is the cost of the class, which may not be enough for some students. Therefore, it is best to enroll in a more interactive class if you truly want to master the skills. With this in mind, consider your preferences and lifestyle. In-person classes require reliable transportation to make the commute, but online courses may prove fewer hands-on than their in-person counterpart. They also require a strong WiFi connection and a laptop with certain capabilities, which may prove challenging to promise.
Ultimately, there are pros and cons that all depend on personal preference, schedule, and intended outcome. If your goal is to turn your Adobe Illustrator skills into a career or a professional side hustle, it is best to learn from someone with direct experience with the program who can assist you and answer questions in real time. If you wish to learn at a slower pace, asynchronous classes could be beneficial, so long as you have the motivation. Consider your learning needs and lifestyle before choosing the ideal Adobe Illustrator class.
Adobe Illustrator is such a useful skill that many want to share the wealth of knowledge online. Thus, you can find Adobe Illustrator resources for free all across the web. For example, Noble Desktop’s YouTube channel aims to teach viewers more about a particular subject or program and provides several resources for current students and hopefully enrollees. Overall, these resources are useful, but professional skill development can’t be learned for free. It is best to enroll in a course taught by an experienced instructor, either in-person or online, to get the most out of your Illustrator education.
There are many useful technologies and skills to learn alongside Adobe Illustrator. Most professionals who use Illustrator also use other related Adobe products that also exist within Adobe Creative Cloud (CC). For example, many Illustrator users learn Adobe Photoshop to edit images that could then be transformed and used as animations or graphics. Some may even find it useful to learn Adobe Premiere Pro, which is a video editing application where users can splice together previously shot footage and add audio, transitions, and layers.
In addition, Adobe After Effects is an application many learn in connection with their Illustrator training. Also under the Adobe CC umbrella, After Effects allows users to create motion graphics and other visual effects. All of these applications become useful alongside Illustrator training. Plus, graphic design careers may require some knowledge in adjacent fields, so it may be useful to learn marketing, UX/UI design, motion graphics, web design, and other online tools such as Figma or Sketch.
Adobe Illustrator is a useful program to learn because it is used across a plethora of industries and fields. In particular, many industries in Los Angeles hire Adobe Illustrator experts who provide logos for marketing purposes or help craft marketing campaigns. Plus, the technology industry uses Illustrator for informational videos and infographics. Even Architects use Illustrator to sketch future projects. With such versatility, it is easy to see why Illustrator is one of the most widely used programs for design-based projects and creative exploits alike.
Marketing experts use Adobe Illustrator in many ways. Because marketing requires strong visual design and clear communication, Illustrator allows these two skills to shine and come to the forefront of any marketing campaign. Marketers of all kinds use Illustrator to create logos, graphics, and posters, including customized color schemes, fonts, icons, and other visual elements that make the brand more recognizable. With the use of Adobe Illustrator, marketing to an intended audience becomes much more effective.
There are many companies and businesses in Los Angeles that require astute marketing experts to help them create successful campaigns. Between retail shops and resorts, as well as sporting event centers and amusement parks, there are ample opportunities to find marketing careers. For instance, The Walt Disney Company runs marketing campaigns to entice tourists to visit the magical world of Disneyland just as Warner Bros. May send out marketing information to increase traffic for their studio tours. Retailers along Rodeo Drive use marketing tactics that pop out to the average passerby, with vibrant colors, unique logos, and straight-to-the-point messaging.
Adobe Illustrator is also a wonderful tool for certain professionals in the entertainment industry. Specifically, Illustrator can be used in films and television shows that are animated and provide illustrative designs to be used in amusement parks, video games, and other forms of entertainment. The early stages of animated film development require sketches and illustrations that can be done with maximum ease and creativity in Illustrator, so it is highly beneficial for those who work in this field. In addition, many entertainment professionals use related Adobe products and CAD tools in these stages.
Los Angeles is known for its entertainment industry—when most people think of the entertainment industry, it is likely they immediately think of Hollywood, a neighborhood within Los Angeles. Aspiring film stars, famous musicians, and recurring television cast members all flock to Los Angeles as it is home to many major production studios. Because of the industry’s solidified presence in the area, many film, television, and video game jobs are available and require their employees to have some level of video, Photoshop, and illustration skills.
In the tech industry, Adobe Illustrator experts often find themselves performing various tasks for software, AI, and tech manufacturing companies. Learning Adobe products is a technical skill regardless of the reason for learning. This vector design tool combines creative inspiration with technological understanding and allows many companies in the tech industry to hire Illustrator experts to draw up prototypes, create marketing videos, or sketch characters for a soon-to-be television series. Many Illustrator experts work in the tech industry and help create logos or add graphics to videos that are informational or promotional. Illustrator’s usefulness across different fields makes it an ideal skill to learn for those in the tech industry.
Los Angeles has a strong technology industry. The city is home to some of the largest tech companies in the world such as Google, Snapchat, SpaceX, Headspace, Hulu, and Warner Bros. Discovery. As a result, the Los Angeles tech industry finds itself interwoven with many other thriving industries in the area such as entertainment, retail, architecture, tourism, and marketing, just to name a few. This connection to other industries allows the tech industry to thrive, which yet again accounts for its presence in the Los Angeles area.
Those who work in architecture use Adobe Illustrator to create prototypes of buildings, external designs, and floorplans in addition to diagrams, proposals, and marketing campaigns. Overall, Illustrator allows architects and engineers to create the most realistic, digital representations of the project before it becomes a reality. It also allows those in architecture to label and annotate their sketches. In addition to Adobe Illustrator, Architects usually use related design technology such as Adobe Photoshop and AutoCAD.
The architectural industry in Los Angeles is an ever-changing landscape that continues to thrive as the city continues to grow. Due to the large population, architectural firms are always looking for new ways to accommodate all the citizens. For instance, multi-story residential buildings like condos and apartments must be efficient and adaptable as the city goes through different iterations. There have been many advancements in Los Angeles architecture, from visual appeal and sustainable design to accessibility and earthquake readiness.
With the right Adobe Illustrator training, many job opportunities will become available. For instance, a career in graphic design, web design, marketing, and user experience design requires extensive knowledge of Adobe Illustrator functions and tools, which make daily tasks easy and enjoyable. Plus, these career roles are generally needed across different industries, so there are opportunities abound.
A Graphic Designer is someone who creates art meant to promote a brand, communicate an intended message, or market to a specific audience. This is typically done through digital means by using graphics, animations, and illustrations through programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, and various coding languages. Generally, Graphic Designers can earn a substantial living in Los Angeles. In particular, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Los Angeles is the second-highest-paying city for a Graphic Designer to live in. On average, a Los Angeles-based salary can earn roughly $78,000. This is comparable to the mean annual wage nationwide, which is closer to $65,000. They often work with others such as Project Managers, User Experience Designers, and Design Directors. They work in collaborative spaces that require problem-solving, effective communication, and a strong sense of marketing tactics when creating logos, infographics, brochures, design elements for video and web use, and other types of marketing material.
Web Designers also use Illustrator quite frequently. They specifically work on the side of the webpage that users see and interact with. They maintain the appearance and user-friendliness of the web by adding functional layouts, following design theory, and including graphic design elements. They work across any industry and are needed regardless of the field of study, as many businesses and organizations have websites that are used for business, informational, or entertainment purposes. Web Designers may use Illustrator to add graphics, logos, and sketches. They work with other departments regularly, including UX Designers, Digital Marketers, and Software Engineers. Indeed suggests the average Web Designer in Los Angeles can earn somewhere around $56,000 each year. This number can vary depending on experience, level of skill, and specific job roles.
Similarly, Digital Marketers create marketing campaigns for companies and brands across various digital spaces and platforms. This may include performing search engine optimization (SEO) techniques, adding backlinks, or creating, designing, managing, and publishing marketing content such as videos, photos, logos, infographics, and social media posts. Many Digital Marketers learn additional skills on top of the marketing expertise they acquire. For example, Adobe products such as Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and Photoshop may prove necessary. Likewise, knowing a coding language can be useful for more technical tasks. Digital Marketers often use Adobe Illustrator. Data pulled from Glassdoor reports that most Digital Marketers in Los Angeles can earn an average salary of $93,000. Marketing experts of all kinds are highly sought-after, but due to the emergence and continual growth of ecommerce and other online spaces, Digital Marketers are especially needed.
A User Experience (UX) Designer will ensure a user-friendly design for websites, applications, and other digital spaces through forms of research, prototyping, and user testing. Their end goal is to create the most accessible product that users can seamlessly navigate. For instance, this includes creating an information architecture and conducting usability tests. UX Designers use a variety of tools and technologies such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and XD. They often use Sketch or InVision as well. Moreover, UX Designers work alongside others in the development field such as User Interface (UI) Designers and Web Developers. Along with technical skills in different programs and applications, UX Designers should also understand various coding languages, have quick problem-solving skills, and manage time and priorities while working on projects. The average salary for a UX Designer in Los Angeles is around $80,000, according to information derived from Salary.com. This career path is profitable, widely needed, and fairly rewarding once the finished product is complete.
If you are looking for the most comprehensive education to help you thrive in a field that frequently uses Adobe Illustrator, consider enrolling in the Graphic Design Certificate from Noble Desktop. Students in this course learn what it takes to master graphic design concepts and technologies, including Adobe Illustrator. Specifically, students will learn to create vector graphics, edit images, use various Adobe programs, and complete other projects that can be added to their resumes. In addition to a thorough education, students will have access to different resources and benefits. For instance, students have the opportunity to partake in one-on-one mentoring. They can also choose from different payment plans and have free setup assistance if required. Plus, students can retake the course for free up to a year after their initial enrollment. Once the student has completed the class, they will receive their digital certificate of completion.
Noble Desktop also offers an Adobe Illustrator Bootcamp that focuses solely on the program and its many uses. Students will go through different features, from beginner to advanced, and learn how to draw, edit, and share vector graphics. Students will practice using the Pen tool, compound paths, layers, colors, and shapes. This class teaches students to use Illustrator regardless of the final project, whether it’s print or web-based. Much like all other Noble Desktop courses, students have access to additional benefits. Students can take part in bonus training and request setup assistance. They are also able to retake the course at no additional cost within a year of their enrollment. In addition to the small class sizes and proprietary workbooks that help students through the learning process, students will gain their digital certificate at the end of the course.
Training Connection offers Adobe Illustrator 2024 Training that helps participants master the art of digital design. This course emphasizes the most up-to-date Illustrator features such as AI tools that streamline efficiency and make precise sketches. Once enrolled, students will receive a training manual, and those who enroll in onsite training can use one of the Training Connection computers or bring their own. Students can choose between different classes that vary in specificity and length. These classes range from one to five days. Students can also repeat the class for free within six months of their first class. There are also group Illustrator training options in addition to the onsite, private, and online training.
The Adobe Illustrator Training courses from NetCom Learning provide students insight into design creation. Students will create logos and transform objects with ease. In addition, students will learn different techniques, tips, and tricks to make using Illustrator as seamless as possible. The students will complete hands-on projects and explore different instructor-led lectures that help with alignment, shapes, and layers. Specifically, the Adobe Illustrator Fundamentals: An Introduction to Illustrator CC course teaches students to create logos with different pen tools and brushes as well as branch out to explore different graphic styles. This course is suitable for Graphic Designers and social media experts. By the end of the course, students will know how to create artwork for a one-of-a-kind postcard and will feel confident using Illustrator for their next personal or professional project.
Adobe Illustrator Core Skills: Level One from ONLC Training offers comprehensive training in fundamental Illustrator tools that professionals use on a day-to-day basis. The instructor will begin with a review of the interface so students gain a clearer understanding of where to find certain tools and features. After, students will learn how to use these tools to create shapes, paths, and drawings that look professional yet artistic. Students will also learn how to use the layers panel, work with rulers, and export their artwork. This course is for both Mac and PC users, as the Adobe software is relatively similar regardless of the platform. It is suggested that students have basic computer skills specific to their laptops before enrollment.
In addition, Adobe Illustrator Training from Intelliquest Computer Training allows participants to explore their creativity through the use of 3D features, typographical controls, and various tools. In this hands-on course, students will specifically learn to draw, paint, and edit shapes on Illustrator, as well as use layering techniques and filters. There are various levels and combination courses, which can take place over one to six days. Some combination courses include levels one and two and levels two and three. In addition, students can learn on a Mac or PC but will be taught on a PC unless specified otherwise during the time of enrollment.
SuperProf provides private Adobe Illustrator Lessons for a more personalized learning experience. In particular, SuperProf boasts 14 Illustrator instructors in Los Angeles who are all highly skilled in Adobe Illustrator and trained in a variety of related fields such as graphic design and digital illustration. Students will learn everything from graphic design principles to digital illustration and more. This course is unique as the price varies depending on the instructor, specific desires, and hourly rate. Many of the first lessons are free, which is an additional incentive for students who are interested in personalized, effective Illustrator lessons. These courses can be taught face-to-face or online, depending on the student's preferences and the instructor's availability.
Mastering Adobe Illustrator from DKNG Studios promises to show you 10 “new tips and tricks to maximize your efficiency and creativity.” Students in this course will learn the newest and most useful features that Illustrator provides. Particularly, students will practice through various hands-on projects and styles. Between building realistic 3D objects, using the intertwine tool, and filling text, students will be able to add an extra creative flair to their designs. In addition, students can also access Skillshare, an online educational community, free for one month using the DKNG Studio referral link. DKNG Studios also recommends students check out their YouTube channel for free, useful tips.
If those in your organization frequently use Adobe Illustrator and would like to brush up on their skills, Noble Desktop offers a variety of course options. These training sessions range from in-person and online classes to private sessions and corporate training. Noble Desktop’s corporate training offerings are vast and provide in-depth instruction so your group can feel confident using the skills acquired when they return to the workplace.
In addition, your organization has the option to purchase discounted bulk vouchers for attendance in regular classes. This is an ideal way to spend money wisely while providing your group with an outlet to learn new skills. Noble Desktop has many options regardless of the skill or level of expertise. If you and your team wish to experience this interactive and worthwhile training session with your group, consider emailing Noble Desktop at corporate@nobledesktop.com to learn more about your options.