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Create a 2D Animation with OpenToonz

Alina M

4.7

Based on 8 ratings

, see reviews

Alina M

Do you want to learn how to animate in OpenToonz? If so, you are in the right place.

OpenToonz is a free and powerful program. It has been used by Studio Ghibli for creating its works for many years. This software can be used not only by professionals, but also, it’s good for those who take their first steps in animation.

This course is designed to teach you how to animate in OpenToonz from scratch. No prior knowledge is required.

This course has two main parts. The first part contains 19 lessons and it covers all the tools and features of the program that you need to know to create a simple 2D animation.

Do you want to learn how to animate in OpenToonz? If so, you are in the right place.

This course is designed to teach you how to animate in OpenToonz from scratch. No prior knowledge is required.

This course has two main parts. The first part contains 19 lessons and it covers all the tools and features of the program that you need to know to create a simple 2D animation.

In the second part of the course, I will show you step-by-step how to create a cartoon.

If you have already some knowledge of the program then you can skip the first part of the course and jump directly into cartooning.

Note: The shortcut keys mentioned in the course are for a PC. If you use a Mac, the shortcut keys may be different.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

Use the drawings tools in opentoonz
Edit vector drawings
Paint vector drawings

Apply shadows & highlights
Create 2d animation

Use the drawings tools in opentoonz
Edit vector drawings
Paint vector drawings
Apply shadows & highlights
Create 2d animation

Syllabus

OpenToonz Basics

Introduction

Interface Overview

Drawing Tools

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Introduces foundational concepts and tools, making it well-suited for absolute beginners

Covers core concepts of animation in OpenToonz, including drawing, editing, painting, and effects

Provides step-by-step guidance through a real-world cartooning project, offering practical experience

Taught by Alina M, an experienced instructor

Uses OpenToonz, a free and powerful animation software

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Reviews summary

Mastering 2d animation with opentoonz

According to learners, this course is a highly effective and comprehensive guide to 2D animation using OpenToonz, particularly praised by beginners. Students appreciate the clear and patient instruction, noting how the instructor demystifies the software and breaks down complex concepts into manageable steps. A significant highlight is the project-based learning, with the hands-on cartoon creation described as invaluable for practical application. While largely positive, some recent feedback indicates the course's user interface may be slightly outdated compared to current OpenToonz versions, leading to minor confusion for a few. There's also a mixed view on pacing, with some finding it just right and others experiencing sections that felt too fast or lacked depth. Overall, it's a strong foundation for aspiring animators.

Instructor's teaching style is clear, patient, and accessible.

"The instructor explains everything clearly and the pacing is just right."

"The instructor's teaching style is excellent, making complex topics easy to grasp."

"The instructor patiently guides you through every tool and concept."

"The explanations are concise and easy to follow, allowing me to confidently navigate OpenToonz."

A thorough introduction to OpenToonz, ideal for new users.

"This course is amazing! It's so thorough and covers everything you need to know to get started with OpenToonz."

"I had never used OpenToonz before, but now I feel confident enough to create my own animations."

"I loved how they started from the absolute basics and gradually built up to complex animations."

"It's comprehensive for beginners, perfect for diving into OpenToonz."

Practical cartoon project is highly beneficial for skill application.

"The second part, where you build a cartoon, is very helpful for practical application."

"The step-by-step guide to creating the Christmas animation was incredibly insightful and allowed me to apply what I learned immediately."

"The practical examples are invaluable. I particularly enjoyed the section on shadows and highlights."

"The project at the end is a great way to put all the knowledge into practice and truly empowers you to start animating."

Shortcut keys are for PC; Mac users must find equivalents.

"My only minor gripe is that some of the shortcuts mentioned are for PC, and as a Mac user, I had to figure out the equivalents."

"It's worth noting that PC shortcuts are emphasized, which required minor adjustments for my Mac setup."

Pacing varies, too fast for some in animation sections.

"I felt it moved a bit too fast in some sections, especially in the animation part. I had to rewatch some lessons multiple times."

"The pace was either too slow or too fast, depending on the section. I struggled to follow along."

"Some explanations lacked depth, leading me to look up external resources for certain things."

"The pacing is just right, and complex concepts are broken down into manageable steps."

User interface elements may not match current OpenToonz versions.

"The course is outdated. Some of the UI elements shown in the videos are different from the current version of OpenToonz, which caused confusion."

"I would suggest is perhaps an update to cover any new features in recent OpenToonz versions, as software evolves."

"The audio quality in some older lessons seemed a bit inconsistent, but it wasn't a deal-breaker."

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 Create a 2D Animation with OpenToonz with these activities:

Practice Animating Basic Movements in OpenToonz

Show steps

Enhance your animation skills by practicing basic movements in OpenToonz, solidifying your understanding of animation principles.

Browse courses on Animation

Show steps

Create a new project in OpenToonz.
Use the drawing tools to create simple shapes.
Apply animation keyframes to create movement for your shapes.
Experiment with different easing curves and timing to refine your animations.

Practice drawing and animating with OpenToonz

Show steps

Strengthen your OpenToonz proficiency through regular practice sessions.

Show steps

Set aside dedicated time each day for drawing and animation exercises.
Focus on practicing specific techniques, such as character movement or facial expressions.

Follow a Tutorial on Creating a Vector Drawing in OpenToonz

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of OpenToonz's vector drawing tools by following a guided tutorial.

Show steps

Find a comprehensive tutorial on creating vector drawings in OpenToonz.
Follow the steps outlined in the tutorial, experimenting with different tools and techniques.

Two other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all five activities

Design and Animate a Simple Character in OpenToonz

Show steps

Apply your skills by designing and animating a simple character in OpenToonz, bringing your creativity to life.

Browse courses on Character Design

Show steps

Sketch out your character design on paper or digitally.
Create a new project in OpenToonz and import your character design.
Use the drawing tools to outline and color your character.
Apply basic animation principles to create movement for your character.
Preview and export your animation.

Create a simple 2D animation using OpenToonz

Show steps

Apply your OpenToonz skills by embarking on a hands-on project to create a simple animation.

Show steps

Sketch out your animation sequence on paper or digitally.
Import your sketches into OpenToonz and create vector drawings.
Animate your drawings using the tools covered in the course.
Export your animation as a video file.

Career center

Learners who complete Create a 2D Animation with OpenToonz will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 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 Create a 2D Animation with OpenToonz.

The Animator's Survival Kit

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Is widely considered the bible of animation. It covers fundamental principles like timing, spacing, walks, runs, and more, applicable across all animation techniques. It is essential for gaining a broad understanding and must-read for anyone serious about animation. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions and by industry professionals.

Create a 2D Animation with OpenToonz

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Mastering 2d animation with opentoonz

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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