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Introduction to Illustrator

Alex Pelchat-White and Jessica Peng

This online course from LaSalle College Vancouver will introduce you to the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is used industry-wide in the creation of digital and print material.

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This online course from LaSalle College Vancouver will introduce you to the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is used industry-wide in the creation of digital and print material.

You will learn how to create, modify and prepare vector content, including logos, diagrams, icons and illustrations in order to satisfy client needs according to industry standards and for various use cases.

Upon completion, you will be able to produce computerized drawings corresponding to different aesthetic criteria and usage.

This course is for anyone looking to build their skills or switch towards a rewarding Graphic Design career.

LaSalle College's graduates have been recognized by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD), a testament to the excellence we bring to the field of graphic arts.

What you'll learn

  • Create logos, diagrams, icons, and other vectorial content in Adobe Illustrator.
  • Transfer and modify digital illustrations from pixel to vector and vice versa.
  • Prepare professional graphic files for print and screen projects.
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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Vectors
Explore the world of vector drawing and the Adobe Illustrator software, which is used industry-wide in the creation of digital and print material.
Read more
Module 2: Adobe Illustrator: Basic Drawing Tools
Look over the basic tools, and use simple shapes to create complex objects in Adobe Illustrator.
Module 3: Advanced Drawing
Explore one of the oldest drawing tools in vector-based illustration: the Bezier tool. An extremely powerful addition to your arsenal, helping you to create complex figures and precision tracings of your drawings.
Module 4: Working with Layers
Look over layers and their role in vector-based illustration. Layers can add up quickly; therefore, we will go over best practices to keep your work organized and readable.
Module 5: Working with Type
What is a design without type? Look over text management and the different tools used to create and manage text in your documents.
Module 6: Color Management
Explore colour management and use. Illustrator provides numerous menus and tools allowing you to achieve optimal harmony in your work. Features an overview of the colour process in Illustrator.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces learners to Adobe Illustrator, an industry standard tool for creating digital and print materials
Provides a solid foundation in vector drawing and editing, essential skills for graphic designers
Taught by experienced instructors with a proven track record in graphic design
Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of graphic design
Offers hands-on labs and interactive materials, enhancing the learning experience
Covers a comprehensive range of topics in Adobe Illustrator, including drawing tools, layers, and color management

Save this course

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Illustrator with these activities:
Practice Basic Shape Creation
Improves basic drawing skills and dexterity with basic shape creation tools in Adobe Illustrator.
Browse courses on Basic Shapes
Show steps
  • Create a New Document
  • Select Basic Shape Tools
  • Practice Creating Simple Shapes (e.g., Rectangles, Circles)
Organize and Review Course Notes
Strengthens understanding and retention by systematically organizing and reviewing course materials.
Show steps
  • Gather and Sort Lecture Notes, Worksheets, and Quizzes
  • Summarize Key Concepts and Definitions
  • Create Flashcards or Mind Maps for Important Topics
Review Typography Basics
Strengthen knowledge of typography principles for effective text design.
Browse courses on Typography
Show steps
  • Review the different types of fonts and their characteristics.
  • Analyze the impact of font size, style, and color.
  • Practice applying typography in a design context.
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Review Adobe Illustrator 1
Reinforce previously learned skills from Graphics Design
Browse courses on Adobe Illustrator
Show steps
  • Review the basic drawing tools and their functionality.
  • Experiment with creating simple shapes and objects.
  • Practice manipulating and transforming objects.
Tracing Exercises
Enhance precision and accuracy in tracing and using the Bezier tool.
Browse courses on Tracing
Show steps
  • Trace an object or image using the Bezier tool.
  • Practice connecting and adjusting points to achieve smooth curves.
  • Manipulate the curvature and tension of the traced lines.
Contribute to Open-Source Design Projects
Gain practical experience and contribute to the community.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source design projects related to Adobe Illustrator.
  • Contribute code, artwork, or documentation to the projects.
  • collaborate with other designers and developers.
Design a Simple Vector Logo
Applies the principles of vector drawing to create a simple logo that demonstrates understanding of shapes, colors, and composition.
Browse courses on Logo Creation
Show steps
  • Brainstorm a Concept for the Logo
  • Sketch a Rough Draft
  • Create the Logo in Illustrator Using Shapes and Color
  • Refine and Finalize the Design
Explore Advanced Illustrator Techniques
Expand knowledge and skills in more advanced aspects of Adobe Illustrator.
Browse courses on Color Management
Show steps
  • Follow tutorials on complex drawing techniques.
  • Practice organizing layers and optimizing workflow.
  • Understand the principles of color theory and apply them in design.
Graphic Design Workshop
Engage in hands-on practice and receive feedback from industry experts.
Show steps
  • Attend a graphic design workshop.
  • Work on projects and collaborate with other participants.
  • Seek guidance and critique from experienced designers.
Design a Logo
Apply vector drawing skills to create a professional logo.
Browse courses on Logo Design
Show steps
  • Define the concept and visual identity of the logo.
  • Sketch out the design and digitize it.
  • Use shape tools and paths to create the vector logo.
  • Adjust colors, fonts, and effects to enhance the design.
Create a Digital Brochure using Illustrator
Integrates various concepts covered in the course to create a professional-looking digital brochure that showcases design skills and typography.
Show steps
  • Plan and Sketch the Brochure Layout
  • Import Images and Text into Illustrator
  • Apply Design Principles and Typography
  • Refine and Finalize the Brochure

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Illustrator will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Graphic designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Graphic Designers to create digital and print materials. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including logos, diagrams, icons, and illustrations. This course may help build a foundation for success in Graphic Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality visual content.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer
Web Designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Web Designers to create digital content for websites and other online platforms. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including logos, icons, and illustrations. This course may help build a foundation for success in Web Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality visual content for the web.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer
Art Director
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Art Directors to create and manage visual content for various projects and campaigns. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including logos, diagrams, icons, and illustrations. This course may help build a foundation for success in Art Direction by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to manage visual content creation and ensure its alignment with project and campaign goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Art Director
UX Designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by UX Designers to create prototypes and mockups for user interfaces. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including icons, buttons, and other UI elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in UX Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality visual prototypes and mockups.
See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer
Animator
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Animators to create vector-based animations for various projects and platforms. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including characters, backgrounds, and other animation elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Animation by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based animations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animator
Illustrator
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Illustrators to create digital and print artwork. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including logos, diagrams, icons, and illustrations. This course may help build a foundation for success in Illustration by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality vector-based artwork.
See salaries and explore the career path for Illustrator
Technical Illustrator
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Technical Illustrators to create diagrams, schematics, and other technical drawings. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including technical shapes, symbols, and other drawing elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Technical Illustration by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality technical drawings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Illustrator
Fashion Designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Fashion Designers to create sketches, patterns, and other design elements for clothing and accessories. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including fashion sketches, garment patterns, and other design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Fashion Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for the fashion industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fashion Designer
Game Designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Game Designers to create concept art, character designs, and other visual assets for video games. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including game characters, backgrounds, and other game art elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Game Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based assets for video games.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer
Product Designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Product Designers to create sketches, prototypes, and other design elements for physical products. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including product sketches, prototypes, and other design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Product Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for physical products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Interior designer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Interior Designers to create floor plans, elevations, and other design elements for interior spaces. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including floor plans, furniture layouts, and other interior design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Interior Design by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for interior spaces.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer
Architect
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Architects to create floor plans, elevations, and other design elements for buildings and structures. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including floor plans, building elevations, and other architectural design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Architecture by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for buildings and structures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architect
Landscape Architect
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Landscape Architects to create site plans, elevations, and other design elements for outdoor spaces. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including site plans, planting plans, and other landscape design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Landscape Architecture by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for outdoor spaces.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect
Civil Engineer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Civil Engineers to create drawings, plans, and other design elements for civil engineering projects. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including site plans, road designs, and other civil engineering design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Civil Engineering by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for civil engineering projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
This course teaches the basics of Adobe Illustrator software, which is widely used by Mechanical Engineers to create drawings, plans, and other design elements for mechanical engineering projects. Students will learn how to create, modify, and prepare vector content, including machine drawings, schematics, and other mechanical engineering design elements. This course may help build a foundation for success in Mechanical Engineering by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality vector-based designs for mechanical engineering projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Illustrator.
Cover image
Photoshop 7 Bible
Save
An extensive guide that delves into advanced features and techniques. Ideal for experienced users and professionals who want to master the software's capabilities.
Photoshop 7 Bible
Paperback
Check
Photoshop 7 Bible
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Save
An essential companion to Adobe Illustrator. Packed with tutorials, tips, and inspiring artwork, this book is an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced users who want to enhance their skills.
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Paperback
Check
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Diabetes
Save
Comprehensive guide to Adobe Illustrator. It covers all the essential features of the software, from basic drawing tools to advanced techniques. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced users.
Diabetes
Paperback
Check
Diabetes
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Logo Design Love
Save
Explores advanced vector illustration techniques and provides insights into the industry. Valuable for students and professionals seeking to enhance their skills.
Logo Design Love
Paperback
Check
Logo Design Love
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Mrs Humphry Ward and Greenian Philosophy
Save
Comprehensive guide to Adobe Illustrator. It covers all the essential features of the software, from basic drawing tools to advanced techniques. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced users.
Mrs Humphry Ward and Greenian Philosophy: Religion,...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Photoshop CS3 for Windows and Macintosh
Save
Aimed at helping designers push the boundaries of their creativity. A useful resource for experienced users looking for fresh perspectives and advanced techniques.
Photoshop CS3 for Windows and Macintosh
Paperback
Check
Photoshop CS3 for Windows and Macintosh
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Adobe Illustrator CC For Dummies
Save
A beginner-friendly guide that demystifies Illustrator. A quick and accessible read for those new to the software.
Adobe Illustrator CC For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Adobe Illustrator CC For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Presentation Book
Save
While not focused on Illustrator, this classic book provides a foundation in design principles that can be applied to digital design and is essential reading for aspiring graphic designers.
Presentation Book
Paperback
Check
Presentation Book
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Art and Science of Drawing
Save
Practical guide to using Adobe Illustrator for graphic design. It covers a wide range of topics, from creating logos and brochures to designing websites and mobile apps.
The Art and Science of Drawing: Learn to Observe,...
Paperback
$$
The Art and Science of Figure Drawing: Learn to...
Paperback
$$
The Art and Science of Drawing: Learn to Observe,...
Kindle Edition
$$
The Art and Science of Figure Drawing: Learn to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Identity Designed: The Process
Save
Practical guide to using Adobe Illustrator for graphic design. It covers a wide range of topics, from creating logos and brochures to designing websites and mobile apps.
Identity Designed: The Process: Research, Strategy,...
Hardcover
$$
Identity Designed: The Process: Research, Strategy,...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Editorial Design
Save
Provides a grounding in graphic design principles. A useful resource for beginners looking to expand their understanding of design concepts.
Editorial Design: Digital and Print
Paperback
$$
Editorial Design
Kindle Edition
$

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Course image
Effort
1 to 2 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Elementary
Via
edX
Institution
LCI Education
Instructors
Alex Pelchat-White
Jessica Peng
Session
February 26, 2024 - February 26, 2025
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Introduces learners to Adobe Illustrator, an industry standard tool for creating digital and print materials
Provides a solid foundation in vector drawing and editing, essential skills for graphic designers
Taught by experienced instructors with a proven track record in graphic design
Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of graphic design
Offers hands-on labs and interactive materials, enhancing the learning experience
Covers a comprehensive range of topics in Adobe Illustrator, including drawing tools, layers, and color management
Share and help others discover this course.
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