Dexterity ; A Graphic Tutor

{#60} [T] - vectoring tips.

7th November 2018.

My birthday was two days ago :)... before I start, I want to thank geminigraphics for the pretty icon she has made for me :D.

...

I will tell you some tips about vectoring.

Tip #1

➼ if you just a beginner who knows nothing about vectoring, don't skip to shading. The first step is to train your neatness, so try vectoring without shading. It may not look satisfying, but if you keep doing that, you'll get neat edges when do vectors.

Tip #2

➼ if you made a mistake that can not be erased, undo it. If you realized the mistake after halfway, erase the whole layer. That is why layer plays an important role in making graphics, don't keep merging layers unless it's necessary.

Tip #3

➼ some of the famous graphic designers use the 'posterize' technique before doing vectors. First, go to the layer of the base picture, pick filters, then choose posterize. The best scale is 10. This is for creating complex shading, but I find it difficult.

After that, follow the texture-like guidelines.

Tip #4

➼ do not outline outside the pic, but inside it.

E.g. instead of :

Try :

Tip #5

➼ use thinner pens for detailed outlines.

Tip #6

➼ try copying other designers' style of doing vectors temporarily. If you think you are capable enough, you can make your own style. I used to follow someone's vectoring skills then use my own.

Tip #7

➼ if you think your picture is too dark/bright, set it with filters~brightness/contrast. It definitely works.

Tip #8

➼ don't force yourself to be the best vector artist, try to train your skills every few weeks based on mood so your skill can increase gradually.

Tip #9

➼ for beginners, don't try to pick difficult pictures to vector; for example, someone who has an ombre hair. It might be difficult for you to blend the color together.

Tip #10

➼ lastly, and most importantly, be patient. If you mess it up, don't freak out or delete the whole thing. Try to cover up your mistakes, nobody is perfect after all. I make mistakes sometimes in full face vectors, especially in the nose area. Try listening to music while vectoring, it helps too.

...

That's all the tips I can think of. I thought about browsing it, but I'd rather make it myself. Who knows someone will credit it in their graphic tutorials too *hehe...*

Thank you so much for reading my tutorials! I will be off sometimes to prepare for my finals. So, temporary goodbye guys.

Any questions? Ask away!

- Ellagance