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VDCI

Adobe Illustrator

via VDCI

Overview

Discover how to create and work with vector graphics using Adobe Illustrator at your own pace. This self-paced course explores both foundational and advanced features, including the Pen tool, effects, layers, and masks, and is ideal for learning how to design logos, icons, and other vector artwork.

Syllabus

Section 1

Drawing with Basic Shape Tools

  • Drawing Ovals & Perfect Circles
  • Creating Precise Shapes
  • Setting Fill & Stroke Color
  • Using the Eyedropper to Copy Formatting
  • Navigating a File: Zooming & Scrolling
  • Outline & Preview Views

Shape Controls

  • Rounded Rectangles
  • Polygon Tool & Triangles
  • Star Tool
  • Scaling Corners & Strokes

Line Tools, Variable Width Strokes, & Rotate Tool

  • Line, Arc, & Spiral tools
  • Width tool & Variable Width Strokes
  • Rotate tool
  • Flipping Horizontally

Building Complex Shapes with Basic Shapes

  • Using the Direct Selection Tool to Move Individual Points
  • Using the Pen tool to Remove Anchor Points
  • Deleting Anchor Points
  • Joining
  • Aligning
  • Working with Groups

Section 2

Pathfinder

  • Comparing Pathfinders
  • Pathfinders vs Shape Modes
  • Live Compound Shapes

Image Trace

  • Image Trace
  • Converting Hand-Drawn Sketches into Vectors
  • Adding Color with Live Paint

Social Media Graphics with Type, Photos, & Vectors

  • Importing Photos
  • Sample Colors with the Eyedropper Tool
  • Adding Type
  • Adding Vector Shapes
  • Using the Curvature Tool to Curve Lines
  • Working with Multiple Artboards
  • Saving Illustrator Files That Contain Linked Photos

Exporting as JPEG, PNG, & SVG

  • Exporting SVG Files
  • Exporting Multiple Artboards with “Export for Screens”
  • Exporting Parts of a File Using “Assets Export”

Section 3

Drawing with the Pen Tool: Straight Lines

  • Drawing Straight Lines with the Pen tool
  • Offset Path

Drawing with the Pen Tool: Curves

  • Drawing Curves with the Pen tool
  • Anchor points & direction points

Drawing with the Pen Tool: Corners & Curves

  • Drawing Corners & Curves with the Pen tool
  • Changing a Curve to a Corner with the Anchor Point Tool

Color Swatches & Gradients

  • Using Color Swatches
  • Creating Gradients

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