E11: Vector Graphics

With this project, we are entering the world of graphics. There are two types of graphics: vector and pixel. Pixel graphics are graphics that are made up of tiny dots of color. For example, digital photos are pixel graphics. Software like Photoshop or Gimp deal with pixel graphics. For this unit, we will deal with vector graphics which are made up of objects: lines, shapes, curves, etc. Illustrator, Vectr, and Inkscape are vector graphic programs.

The most significant difference in working with these two programs is demonstrated in selection: vector graphics are made up of objects that you can easily choose and manipulate separately; pixel graphics are one big mass of pixels making selection a tricky process. Vector graphics require that you think in objects; whereas, pixel graphics require that you think in areas, colors, and selections.

The main challenge in vector graphic programs is often understanding how the Bezier tool functions. This tool allows you to make very complicated curves and objects, but it can be very tricky to learn. This function is not one that you will figure out on your own most likely. You may want to read or watch a video about Bezier curves on the web and how your chosen program handles them. I know how to use this tool, and I still find it hard to work with at times.

If you are working with Adobe products, you will probably find Illustrator easier than InDesign because you are now a little familiar with Adobe. Many of the tools act the same way; the dialog boxes look much the same. However, some things act quite differently as well. For instance, you have master pages and page flow in InDesign, whereas you have artboards in Illustrator.

Exercise: Vector Graphics

Create a comic strip in Illustrator or Vectr. Feel free to be creative and funny or not. Choose any topic you would like. You can even blow off a little steam—I have had more than one cartoon about how technological adaptability is freaking HARD—though do remember that this should be appropriate for a future employer to see. I suggest no political themes.

Layers work differently in Illustrator and Vectr. Illustrator can have more than one object on layer where each object is a layer in Vectr.

Illustrator is MUCH more powerful than Vectr. We are keeping this pretty simple. For those who might use Illustrator in the future, I encourage you to really play around with the features.

Illustrator big hints: you will see the Illustrator tools’ options if you choose the tool then click on an artboard instead of dragging. Also, many tools are hidden under others. Hold down the mouse on a tool to see more options.

Use your resources; you will need help on this one!

Read through the instructions first. Plan your comic strip accordingly. You might want to do a very rough sketch of your comic before starting.

1. Plan your comic out, telling a simple story and considering the requirements.
2. Open a new document.
3. Create as many artboards or pages as you will need. (Artboards are just another “page”). Plan on 2-4 frames per board. You should have at least 8 frames.
4. Create a second layer for each artboard/page.
5. In Illustrator, place your frames (just a box to frame the comic) on the background layers (called “layer 1”). In Vectr, make sure your frames are the first layer.
6. Lock your frames by locking the object or the layer.
7. Using the Pencil or Pencil tool, create a main character. It does not need to be a work of art, just original.
8. Use a star with one long arm. (Hint: edit a path.)
9. Use dialog bubbles. (Illustrator hint: Symbols: Web icons library.)
10. Use a house shape filled with a gradient.
11. Use half a hexagon. (Illustrator hint: knife tool. Vectr hint: hexagon, rectangle and workspace tools.)
12. Use an icon or shape with an obvious drop shadow in a color other than black or white. (Illustrator hint: effect à stylize.)
13. Use a Bezier curve with two smooth angles and two sharp angles (hint: pen tool, then convert anchor point).
14. Create a circular frame, with a star cut out of the exact middle (Illustrator hint: align tool then pathfinder window, Vectr hint: workspace tools).
15. Illustrator, use the pathfinder window to create a strange shape. Vectr, use the workspace tools to do the same.
16. Use a partially opaque shape on top of another shape.
17. Save the file.
18. Export the file to PDF.
19. Turn the files in, if applicable.