Graphic Design Masterclass - Learn GREAT Design from Udemy

As you can see, this course is updated frequently with new lessons, projects and resources.

January 2024 - NEW Section. Photoshop 2024 Updates - Artificial Intelligence Generative fill tool overview and mastery. January 2023 - NEW Resources. Design Book Recommendations and Resource on Graphic Design PayNovember 2022 - NEW Section. The History of Graphic Design Styles. August 2022 - NEW Section. Learn to Create a Custom Brand Presentation Mockup in Adobe PhotoshopJanuary 2022 - NEW Section. Design Trends 2022. We will figure out how to predict future design trends and create three projects. November 2021 - NEW Sections. Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator 2022 update lessons and Adobe Illustrator 3D class Project. June 2021 - NEW Lesson. How to properly give and receive critiques and feedback April 2021 - NEW. Section on how to create YouTube Thumbnails. March 2021 - NEW. Video on How to Encourage and Spark CreativityMarch 2021 - NEW. Section on The Double Exposure Effect in Adobe Photoshop 2021. March 2021 - NEW. Section creating vector art in Adobe Illustrator 2021 using the new repeat tool and the blend tool. February 2021 - NEW. Detailed section on Adobe Photoshop Photo editing basics - New projects added. January 2021 - NEW. 2021 Design Trends Section with three new student projects. November 2020 - NEW. 16 page History of Typography Guide, 16 Page Color Theory Guide and 8 Page Font Pairing Guide. October 2020 - Updated Lessons. Photoshop 2021 Neural Filter and Liquify Tools August 2020 - Updated Lessons. Logo Design and Branding Project July 2020 - NEW. How to work with Photoshop Mockups. June 2020 - NEW. How to Become a Graphic Designer 14 page Resource Guide and Lessons. May 2020 - NEW. InDesign Portfolio Builder Template. April 2020 - NEW. Entirely new Adobe InDesign Section including a cookbook projectApril 2020 - NEW. Color Theory - Exploring Color Palettes SectionMarch 2020 - NEW. A Guide to My Favorite Fonts and Where to Download Them Jan 2020 - NEW. Lessons: 2020 Design Trends: and how to create themNov 2019 - NEW. - Adobe Illustrator introduction and tools section (vector tracing worksheet)Nov 2019 - NEW. - Photoshop section and Projects (including a new youtube thumbnail and book cover project)Oct 2019 - NEW. 11 page downloadable resource - The Guide to Grids Oct 2019 - NEW. Color Theory and Color Harmony Lessons + new Downloadable ResourcesJuly 2019 - NEW. Affinity Designer Section. Learn The Basic Tools and Differences Between Adobe Illustrator And Affinity DesignerMay 2019 - NEW. Downloadable Resources - the Anatomy of Typography poster and the Psychology of Color graphic. April 2019 - NEW Lessons: Finding Your Graphic Design Niche and Focus.

Graphic Design Master Class - Learn GREAT Design

Do you want to learn all the skills and techniques you need to create incredible designs?

Do you want to know the process of creating logos and branding packages?

Are you intimidated by learning photoshop, illustrator or InDesign and want to learn through practical real world projects? Than This class will be for you.

We will extensively review Typography, color theory, layout and composition, how to use photos in design, photo manipulations and editing and magazine layout design, branding and logo design just to name a few.

We also learn the basics of Adobe Photoshop, illustrator and InDesign and do projects with real world applications. Every designer needs to know and master these programs and this course makes sure you know the essential tools to power through amazing projects.

In Adobe Photoshop, we will review photo editing and manipulation techniques like how to cut objects out, duotones, changing color on objects, the liquify tool and we will create a compelling YouTube thumbnail with our newly learned photoshop skills as well as an entire book cover design project.

In Adobe Illustrator, we will master the pen tool by hand tracing simple and complex shapes. We will explore the power of the shape builder tool and In the end of this section, we will design a complete logo design. There is an entirely new introduction and tools section that has been added where we work through a 7 page vector tracing worksheet and in the end create a complex vector illustration using our newly learned illustrator vector tools. Lastly, we will put together an event flyer to practice our layout skills, and even work through the branding process and create a logo, business card and letterhead for a business.

We will will create a magazine layout in InDesign and learn the master pages tool to drastically speed up your design workflow when working with multiple paged layouts.

We will talk about branding basics, what makes a good logo? How do you extend your logo or brand to other marketing materials?

I designed this extensive course to be gentle enough for new comers to design but detailed enough for everyone to get a TON out of this course.

New Mini-Course Added. Discover Your Design Niche. Do you want to find out what design niche you should concentrate on? This is an exploratory mini-class added to the Graphic Design Masterclass course on Udemy (Section 15) that helps you find your next focus and explore many wonderful options for budding and established designers.

We are going to review some main core design categories and talk about what types of projects you will do and also what you will need to learn to leap into those design niches. There are always more niches to discover but we will focus on the following in this mini-class:Logo DesignPrint & Editorial DesignPattern Design and IllustrationPackage DesignBranding DesignUX/UI DesignSocial Media/Digital Graphic Designer

By the end of this class you will have a solid grasp of what each design niche entails. You will have confidence in choosing your top three focal niches to kickstart or enhance your design offerings and know what to learn next.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Have a deep understanding of typography, color theory, photos, layout, blocking and other design theory and skills
Understand and learn the essential tools and capabilities of adobe photoshop, illustrator and indesign
Create logos and branding packages for potential clients
Learn photo editing and manipulation in adobe photoshop
Master the pen tool, shape builder tool and other essential vector design tools in adobe illustrator.
How to create editorial spreads and magazine layouts using adobe indesign
Understand solid logo design and ad design principles to create compelling campaigns and logos
Work through the entire package design process
Learn non-destructive editing techniques in adobe photoshop
Work through an event flyer design to understand strong type hierarchy, balance and overall design layout
Learn a few of the upcoming design trends for 2022 and how to create them!
Learn the history of fonts and typefaces and how to pair fonts
Learn the basics of affinity designer and learn the difference between adobe illustrator and affinity designer
Work through a 7 page vector tracing worksheet and feel confident creating a complex vector illustration by the end of this worksheet
New! learn how to work with multiple page layouts in adobe indesign and create a cookbook cover and book

New! learn the step-by-step process to becoming a graphic designer
New! learn how to work with photoshop mockups to create great presentations
New! learn word mapping and brainstorming techniques to increase your creativity in logo design and branding projects
New! learn the double exposure effect in adobe photoshop
New! create vector art in adobe illustrator
New! learn how to encourage and spark creativity
New! how to create youtube thumbnails and social media graphics
New! how to properly give and receive critiques and feedback
New! understand how to create 3d objects and typography in adobe illustrator
New! discover the latest 2022 updates to the adobe software and understand the new artificial intelligence filters and tools
New! learn how to predict future design trends and complete projects that use the most up to date trends
New! learn about the history of graphic design styles in the last 130 years
New! learn about adobe photoshop's generative fill tool and artificial intelligence, ai!
Show more
Show less

Have a deep understanding of typography, color theory, photos, layout, blocking and other design theory and skills
Understand and learn the essential tools and capabilities of adobe photoshop, illustrator and indesign
Create logos and branding packages for potential clients
Learn photo editing and manipulation in adobe photoshop
Master the pen tool, shape builder tool and other essential vector design tools in adobe illustrator.
How to create editorial spreads and magazine layouts using adobe indesign
Understand solid logo design and ad design principles to create compelling campaigns and logos
Work through the entire package design process
Learn non-destructive editing techniques in adobe photoshop
Work through an event flyer design to understand strong type hierarchy, balance and overall design layout
Learn a few of the upcoming design trends for 2022 and how to create them!
Learn the history of fonts and typefaces and how to pair fonts
Learn the basics of affinity designer and learn the difference between adobe illustrator and affinity designer
Work through a 7 page vector tracing worksheet and feel confident creating a complex vector illustration by the end of this worksheet
New! learn how to work with multiple page layouts in adobe indesign and create a cookbook cover and book
New! learn the step-by-step process to becoming a graphic designer
New! learn how to work with photoshop mockups to create great presentations
New! learn word mapping and brainstorming techniques to increase your creativity in logo design and branding projects
New! learn the double exposure effect in adobe photoshop
New! create vector art in adobe illustrator
New! learn how to encourage and spark creativity
New! how to create youtube thumbnails and social media graphics
New! how to properly give and receive critiques and feedback
New! understand how to create 3d objects and typography in adobe illustrator
New! discover the latest 2022 updates to the adobe software and understand the new artificial intelligence filters and tools
New! learn how to predict future design trends and complete projects that use the most up to date trends
New! learn about the history of graphic design styles in the last 130 years
New! learn about adobe photoshop's generative fill tool and artificial intelligence, ai!
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Important! The Course Guide & Downloadable .Zip File!

Class Trailer

Having trouble with the larger .zip file? No problem you can download the file unzipped from my personal google drive right here... https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xJI0H2rDF7DUAViDVR4UZCyIFPYr8hxi?usp=share_link

Make sure to download the resources along the way! The Anatomy of Typography poster and jpg are attached. Great tool for referencing a lot of the type specific terms I use throughout the theory section of this class.

Make sure to download the Color Harmony Chart!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Taught by Lindsay Marsh, who are recognized for their work in graphic design

Develops skills and tools that are highly relevant to industry

Taught by instructors who are recognized for their work in graphic design

Provides a comprehensive study of graphic design

Develops professional skills or deep expertise in graphic design

Offers a multi-modal mix of media, including videos, readings, discussions, etc

Reviews summary

Mastering design principles and adobe tools

According to learners, this course is a highly comprehensive and continuously updated resource for mastering graphic design. Students consistently praise the instructor's engaging teaching style and the practical, real-world projects that solidify understanding. It's particularly well-received for providing a solid foundation in design theory (typography, color, layout) and extensive coverage of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, including recent AI tool updates. While a few learners found the pace occasionally slow, particularly in introductory sections, the majority highlight its immense value for both beginners and aspiring professionals looking to build a strong portfolio and career.

Course is highly beneficial for newcomers to graphic design.

"As a beginner, I found the design theory sections (typography, color) invaluable before diving into the software."

"This course is great for beginners! It covers so much ground, from core principles to software specifics."

"I found the course very accessible and detailed, even as a newcomer to design, and it helped me build confidence."

Instructor provides clear, digestible, and engaging explanations.

"The instructor's teaching style is engaging and easy to follow."

"The instructor's explanations are superb, and the downloadable resources are fantastic."

"The way the instructor breaks down complex topics into digestible lessons is remarkable."

"The instructor is phenomenal. I learned not just how to use the tools, but also *why* certain design choices are made."

Hands-on projects enhance learning and portfolio building.

"The practical exercises are crucial for building skills. It's a fantastic investment."

"I love the hands-on projects that reinforce the learning. Truly a masterclass for anyone serious about design."

"I appreciated the emphasis on real-world projects like the logo design and magazine layout."

"The projects are fun and challenging, and I've already started applying these skills to my small business."

Provides a thorough grounding in design theory and software.

"This course is incredibly comprehensive. As a beginner, I found the design theory sections (typography, color) invaluable before diving into the software."

"It covers so much ground, from core principles to software specifics. The InDesign section for magazine layouts was particularly useful."

"This course covers everything! From understanding typography to learning the latest Photoshop tools, it’s all here. The instructor makes it accessible and enjoyable."

Course content is regularly updated, ensuring relevance.

"Absolutely amazing course! The Generative Fill tool section was a game-changer and so relevant for current design trends."

"The continuous updates make this course evergreen. The new sections on AI tools in Photoshop are incredibly valuable. It really feels like an evolving resource."

"The regular updates are a huge plus... The commitment to frequent updates means the content is always relevant."

Comprehensive, but can be overwhelming or slow-paced for some.

"It's a long course, and sometimes I felt a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content. While it's comprehensive, I found myself skipping some of the very basic parts."

"Sometimes the pace felt a bit slow for me, but overall, it's packed with useful information."

"While comprehensive, the pacing was a bit slow for me at times, especially in the very early theory sections. I appreciate the effort put into it, but it requires a lot of dedication."

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 Graphic Design Masterclass - Learn GREAT Design with these activities:

Read 'The Design of Everyday Things'

Show steps

Review the classic text on design to reinforce foundational design principles and concepts.

View Things That Make Us Smart: Defending Human... on Amazon

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Purchase the book and set aside time for reading.
Read the book in its entirety, taking notes on key concepts and principles.
Summarize the main takeaways from the book in a brief written report.

Read 'Stealing Fire'

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Explore the latest research on creativity and innovation to spark fresh ideas and approaches.

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Purchase the book or borrow it from a library.
Read through the book, highlighting key insights and techniques.
Apply the concepts from the book to your own creative projects.

Complete Photoshop Practice Exercises

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Reinforce your Photoshop skills through guided exercises to improve your proficiency.

Browse courses on Photoshop

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Find a set of Photoshop practice exercises online or in a book.
Follow the instructions carefully and complete the exercises.
Review your work and identify areas for improvement.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Follow Tutorials on Adobe Illustrator Features

Show steps

Expand your knowledge of Adobe Illustrator by following tutorials that introduce new features and techniques.

Browse courses on Illustrator

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Identify specific Adobe Illustrator features you want to learn.
Find video tutorials or online guides that teach these features.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step and practice using the new features.

Create a Brand Identity for a Fictional Company

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Put your design skills into practice by developing a comprehensive brand identity for a hypothetical company.

Browse courses on Brand Identity

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Define the company's mission, values, and target audience.
Research and gather inspiration for the brand identity.
Develop a logo, color palette, and typography for the brand.
Create a style guide that outlines the brand's visual identity.

Write a Blog Post on a Design Trend

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Share your knowledge and insights on a current design trend to reinforce your understanding and contribute to the community.

Browse courses on Design Trends

Show steps

Research and identify a specific design trend.
Write a blog post that explores the trend, its implications, and examples.
Publish your blog post on a platform like Medium or your own website.

Design a Website Landing Page

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Apply your knowledge of design principles to create a functional and visually appealing website landing page.

Browse courses on Web Design

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Determine the purpose and target audience for the landing page.
Plan the layout and structure of the landing page.
Design the visual elements of the landing page, including images, typography, and colors.
Develop the landing page using HTML and CSS or a web design platform.

Attend a Local Design Meetup

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Connect with fellow designers, learn about new trends, and expand your network.

Browse courses on Networking

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Find a local design meetup or networking event.
Attend the event and introduce yourself to others.
Participate in discussions and share your knowledge and insights.

Career center

Learners who complete Graphic Design Masterclass - Learn GREAT Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Graphic Designer

A Graphic Designer creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. This course covers essential graphic design tools, techniques, and theory. You will learn the basics of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, as well as color theory, typography, and layout. With this foundation, you will be able to create logos, branding packages, and other visual materials for a variety of clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Designer

Web Designer

A Web Designer creates and maintains websites. They work with clients to determine the website's purpose and audience, and then design a website that is both visually appealing and easy to use. This course covers the basics of web design, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create graphics for your website.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer

Art Director

An Art Director oversees the visual aspects of a project, such as a magazine, website, or advertising campaign. They work with designers, photographers, and other creatives to ensure that the project's visual identity is consistent and effective. This course covers the basics of art direction, including typography, layout, and color theory. You will also learn how to develop a creative brief and manage a creative team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Art Director

Creative Director

A Creative Director is responsible for the overall creative vision of a project. They work with clients to develop a creative strategy and then lead a team of creatives to execute that strategy. This course covers the basics of creative direction, including brainstorming, concept development, and project management. You will also learn how to develop a creative portfolio and present your work to clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Director

UX Designer

A UX Designer focuses on the user experience of a product or service. They work with designers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the product is easy to use and enjoyable to interact with. This course covers the basics of UX design, including user research, prototyping, and user testing. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create user interfaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

UI Designer

A UI Designer creates the user interface for a product or service. They work with UX designers and engineers to ensure that the user interface is visually appealing, easy to use, and consistent with the product's overall brand identity. This course covers the basics of UI design, including typography, color theory, and layout. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create UI elements.

See salaries and explore the career path for UI Designer

Front-End Developer

A Front-End Developer is responsible for the front-end of a website or application. They work with designers and back-end developers to ensure that the website or application is visually appealing, easy to use, and responsive. This course covers the basics of front-end development, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create graphics for the web.

See salaries and explore the career path for Front-End Developer

Back-End Developer

A Back-End Developer is responsible for the back-end of a website or application. They work with front-end developers and designers to ensure that the website or application is functional and secure. This course does not cover back-end development, but it does provide a foundation in web design and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Back-End Developer

Photographer

A Photographer captures images for a variety of purposes, such as art, journalism, and advertising. This course covers the basics of photography, including camera settings, composition, and lighting. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to edit and enhance your photos.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer

Illustrator

An Illustrator creates visual images for a variety of purposes, such as art, books, and magazines. This course covers the basics of illustration, including drawing, painting, and digital art. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create your own illustrations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Illustrator

Animator

An Animator creates moving images for a variety of purposes, such as cartoons, movies, and video games. This course does not cover animation, but it does provide a foundation in graphic design and art.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animator

Art teacher

An Art Teacher teaches art to students of all ages. They work with students to develop their artistic skills and knowledge. This course covers the basics of art education, including lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create art projects with your students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Art teacher

Graphic Design Manager

A Graphic Design Manager oversees a team of graphic designers. They work with clients to develop creative briefs and then manage the design process from start to finish. This course covers the basics of graphic design management, including project management, budgeting, and client relations. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create your own designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Design Manager

Marketing Manager

A Marketing Manager develops and executes marketing campaigns for a variety of products or services. They work with a team of marketers to create marketing materials, such as brochures, websites, and social media campaigns. This course may be useful for aspiring Marketing Managers, as it covers the basics of marketing, including market research, branding, and advertising. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create marketing materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Product Manager

A Product Manager is responsible for the development and launch of a product. They work with a team of engineers, designers, and marketers to ensure that the product meets the needs of the target market. This course may be useful for aspiring Product Managers, as it covers the basics of product management, including product development, marketing, and sales. You will also learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create product mockups and marketing materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager