Net Picks - Skillshare a Great Online Learning Resource
I've been a subscriber to Skillshare for a while now and I've found it a great learning resource. There is a wealth of classes in a variety of topics that are all digital based. You can learn anything from digital design and illustration to cooking and crafting!
As a digital illustrator, I'm always looking to expand my skillset and keep up to date with the available tools that are available. Although I've been illustrating for over a decade, I feel it's still important for me to keep learning and discovering new things and I've found Skillshare to be a wonderful source of constant inspiration.
Skillshare is offering 3 months premium membership for only 99 cents! Yes! $0.99 for 3 months (while premium is usually about $10/month). A great deal to try it out! To get this offer you must sign up via this link.
Here is a short (but not too short) list of a few Skillshare classes that I feel are worth looking into: (please note although you cannot see the entire class you can still preview an intro video to each course through the links below)
Illustrator Resources:
Brad Woodard's series on Illustrator - Brad Woodard has a great series of 4 videos on the fundamentals of Illustrator and is a great resource for those starting out. I highly recommend those that are not familiar with working in Illustrator or vectors to check out this series first.
Character Illustration: From Concept to Final Artwork - This is a fun class by Matt Kaufenberg where he takes you from illustrating in Illustrator to finishing up in Photoshop. I personally work this way (start in vector and then add more textures and details in Photoshop) and I think this class is a great way to learn to utilize both programs to create great work.
Bonnie Christine’s Intro to Surface Pattern Design: Learn Adobe Illustrator | Create Patterns - Although this is primarily an intro into pattern design, I've found this to have a great section dedicated to Illustrator. I myself have learned a few helpful things that have improved my workflow in Illustrator.
Adobe Illustrator: Give the Pen Tool a Day Off - I think this is a great class because I know a lot of people struggle with the pen tool in Illustrator and Michael share different methods that don't rely on this tool to illustrate in Illustrator. I personally think it's important to learn how to use the pen tool effectively in Illustrator to make the most use out of the program but I don't think it's the end all be all if you want to work in vector.
Vector Illustration: Playing with Texture - This class focuses on adding textures in Illustrator without having to import into Photoshop.
Photoshop Resources:
Illustration in Photoshop: Professional Work From Your Sketches - Anne Bollman is a successful illustrator and designer. Her class will show you shortcuts, tips and tricks along the way that will streamline your design workflow.
Misprint: Smart Texturing In Photoshop - Block printing and letterpress is hot right now and in this class you'll learn how to get the look and effects in Photoshop!
Matt Kaufenberg teaches you the fundamentals of working with Photoshop in his Skillshare series Photoshop for Illustrators
Photoshop for Illustrators I: Workspace, Layers, and Drawing - This class starts you out with the basics of setting up your workspace and understanding how to use layers in Photoshop (which is crucial in this software).
Photoshop for Illustrators II: Using and Creating Brushes - Creating your own custom brushes helps to give your work more personality and a more hand drawn look.
Photoshop for Illustrators III: Color and Texture - I love using and working with textures in Photoshop when I illustrate. This is a great tutorial to learn different methods to add texture to your work.
Pattern Designing Resources:
Bonnie Christine's series of classes: Bonnie's classes are really well done and very comprehensive. I wrote a review on my blog about her Intro to Surface Pattern Design class which you can read here.
Elizabeth Olwen's series of classes: Elizabeth's classes are also really well done. I love in her third class, she shows you how to mock up your designs on products. I wrote a review on my blog about her Pattern Design I class which you can read here.
I hope you do try out Skillshare! There is literally something for everyone! Please feel free to share your thoughts on the classes I've shared or ones you've taken that are worth checking out!
RELATED POST:
Tools of the Trade – Adding Texture to Your Digital Work - Although I mainly use Adobe Illustrator to create my digital illustrations, I still want a more “natural” look instead of the sleek ,perfectly smooth edges you can achieve with vectors. I use a variety of methods to incorporate more texture into my vector work, both in Illustrator and in Photoshop. Read more...
*Disclaimer: Although I'm a Skillshare affiliate, I only get compensated when someone signs up with a paid subscription! These recommendations are not paid for but my own personal opinion.