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Graphic Design Using Adobe Illustrator (4-Week Introduction Course)

In this 4-week course, students will learn the key functions and tools of Illustrator by creating and editing shapes, utilizing the pen tool, working with artboards, layers, and color -- and ultimately, creating a fun vector image!

Mrs. Aguilar

Average rating:

4.7

Number of reviews:

(56)

What's included

4 live meetings

2 hrs 20 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

In this beginner's course, students will learn how to navigate around Illustrator utilizing the key functions and tools to create and edit shapes, use the pen tool (VERY important in Illustrator), work with artboards, manipulate layers, choose fill and stroke colors, and ultimately, create a set of unique flat design vector style images. 

COURSE OUTLINE:

Week 1: Introduction to Illustrator 
✘ Lesson: Discuss vector vs. raster images, Create and edit shapes (using pathfinder window tools, merge & blend tools, and the fill and stroke color picker)
✘ Homework: Create a set of icons with basic shapes (with pre-recorded video support)

Week 2: Mastering the Drawing Tools 
✘ Lesson: Master the Brush, Pencil, Blob Brush, and Pen Tools
✘ Homework: Pen tool exercises (with pre-recorded video support)

Week 3: Working with Typography
✘ Lesson: Learn about the properties of typography, leading and kerning improvement techniques, and styling options
✘ Homework: Create a typography graphic for phone background (with pre-recorded video support)

Week 4: Flat design and work with clipping mask
✘ Lesson: Combine all skills to create a flat vector design and utilize the clipping mask to create and apply a pattern
✘ Homework: Finish vector design and post in the classroom when complete (with pre-recorded video support)

IN TOTAL, CLASS INCLUDES:

✘ 4 lives classes
✘ 4 pre-recorded videos to complement our live sessions
✘ 4 extension ideas and practice activities
✘ printable Illustrator tools PDF

WHY ILLUSTRATOR?

Illustrator is part of the "Big 3" design programs that all graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs should learn. The other two are Photoshop and InDesign!

From Brit + Co: "Adobe Illustrator is a must for the left-brainers of the world. With endless tools, Adobe Illustrator can revolutionize the way you get creative. Whether it’s working with beautiful typography or playing with different shapes, there are no boundaries to what you can make."

Learning Goals

Students will learn how to use the key tools in Illustrator
Students will create a polished, professional-looking flat lay design

Other Details

Supply List

Students will need Illustrator downloaded onto their computer before the course begins. You can start with a 7-day free trial, and transition to the $19.99/mo Adobe Creative Plan with Student Discount. (As a student, they can save over 60% on the entire collection of Creative Cloud apps!) Otherwise, you can get Illustrator as part of Creative Cloud for $20.99/mo.

External Resources

In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:

Illustrator

Mrs. Aguilar

Joined April, 2020

4.7

56reviews

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

For five years, I taught graphic design, digital media, and yearbook courses as a teacher at an all-girls, 6th-12th grade school of choice in Fort Worth, TX. Teaching mostly middle school and our underclassmen, we did everything from Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to photography, videography, stop-motion animation, and branding/graphic design. While there, I became the department head, the campus technology coordinator, and I helped start the student-led, in-house advertising agency. Prior to teaching, I worked in advertising in Austin, NYC, and Fort Worth. I'm now a work-from-home mom to two kiddos and a freelance graphic designer and educator.