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Illustrator users build skills through expensive and time-consuming class sessions, but also have the opportunity to learn new skills for free using a hands-on Adobe Illustrator guide to learn at your own pace as you go.
Created by a professional how-to illustrator, these guides offer detailed instructions and illustrations that guide users through the design process. Important skills that help both beginner and advanced Adobe Illustrator users can include converting text into editable outlines, creating bevel effects, designing seasonal layouts, and more.
The quality of Illustrator how-to guides varies widely on the web, depending on the purpose being served. Some companies are looking to funnel business into their premium educational products, while others have a sincere desire to support the Illustrator community. The following tips help illustrators find and use the best Adobe Illustrator tutorials on the web.
Check software version
Designers need to know what version of Adobe Illustrator they have installed on their computer. Find this information by clicking “Help” on the main menu and then clicking the “About Illustrator” option. This opens an information window showing the version number. Use the chart below to interpret this information for Creative Suite versions of Illustrator.
- Version 11 = Illustrator CS
- Version 12 = Illustrator CS2
- Version 13 = Illustrator CS3
- Version 14 = Illustrator CS4
- Version 15 = Illustrator CS5
Software evolves over time, making some tutorials outdated. The tools and capabilities have changed with the release of new versions of Illustrator. This means that older how-tos may refer to discontinued tools and not mention new tools that make the illustrator’s job easier.
For best results, designers should look for Illustrator how-to guides that match their software version. Tutorials using newer software versions may reference tools and features not available to designers using older software. Similarly, tutorials geared toward older versions of Illustrator may refer to outdated tools.
Avoid time wasters
Before committing to a how-to guide, users should review it quickly to avoid wasting their time on a scam. Some “free” guides leave out key information in an effort to entice users to purchase premium training or support products offered by the host. A free guide will show all the steps required to complete a design or procedure or else it really isn’t free.
Read between lines
Not all skills come in a separate Adobe Illustrator how-to guide. A fully documented procedure will often contain useful information for Illustrator users. For example, learning how to create a Jack O’ Lantern in Illustrator might not interest a user, but the procedures that show how to use the Pathfinder window contained in that tutorial could save the day.
Please take the time to read all of Illustrator’s how-to’s with an open mind, ready to learn important information that applies to each design.
Learn important skills without in-person Adobe Illustrator training. Readers who choose carefully from available how-to guides save money and add new talent to their design repertoire.