Tutorial 6: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator

This week, we learnt how to use Adobe Illustrator and use shapes to draw images. It was tricky at first, and it took me some time before I got used to handling the tools. We were introduced to the basic illustration tools such as the pen tools, type tool, selection and direct selection tools. We learnt to use the gradient tool and scale our drawings on illustrator, as well as using guides to arrange drawings and put them in place. The penguin below is a result of a whole day of sitting in front of the laptop and scaling the drawings.

Original penguin 

Penguin drawn by me

The penguin on the left is the original image while the one on the right is the result of my work. Although the lines and curves are not smooth, this is my first try and I aim to do better with more practices ahead.

During this process, I learnt that it is important for me to plan before I draw. It is always best to break the different part into layers so that I do not delete the parts that I have done by accident. I have also learnt that it is best to be thorough in my tight sketches so that I can scan them in and use them as a guide on Adobe Illustrator (AI) when I execute my designs on the software. However, I also need to use the rulers and guides on AI to ensure that my drawings are scaled and proportionate. I cannot depend on my tight sketches alone as they are only rough guides.

Adobe Illustrator is once I get the hang of it. However, judging from how my penguin drawing turned out, I believe I need to polish my skills more.