Become A Professional Logo Designer

Discussion and Research in Logo Design Preview 01:36

In this lesson, you will be introduced to the topics within this section on client discussion and research in logo design.

Know the Client and Audience Preview 05:18

In this lesson, you will learn about researching and becoming familiar with the logo design client and its real and potential audience.

Conduct Field Research and Gain Insight Preview 03:33

In this lesson, you will learn about the importance of field research and how it can lead to more ideas for logo design and other branding ideas.

Learn from Customers: Interviewing and Focus Groups Preview 03:08

In this lesson, you will learn about the importance of interviewing real and potential customers of a client. You will also learn how focus groups can be conducted for research purposes.

Example Questions to Ask During Interview or Focus Group Preview 1 page

This handout includes example questions to ask during focus group sessions.

Discussion with Client for Logo Design Preview 08:02

You will learn from how I interact with a client as well as discuss and brainstorm some ideas for a logo design.

Example Questions to Ask Client Preview 2 pages

This handout includes example questions to ask a client during a logo design brainstorming session.

Competitive Research Preview 03:07

In this lesson, you will learn about how competitive research can help inform a logo designer's creative direction.

Why Logo Designers and Clients Need a Design Brief Preview 05:51

You will learn why logo designers and logo design clients need a design brief. Creative design briefs help make sure both the logo designer and the client are on the same page.

The Client Brief for Logo Preview 1 page

This is an example client brief for a logo design.

How Much Should You Charge for Logo Design? Preview 06:57

In this lecture, you will

• Learn how to calculate how much to charge for your logo designs.
• Understand what value a client pays for, including time, idea, and the final product.

Logo Design Contracts: Getting Paid and Example Contract Preview 11:06

In this lecture, you will

• See and download a sample logo design contract.
• Know what to consider when writing the contract, such as percentage paid up-front.
• Know what types of files to include and describe in the contract.

Another Helpful Way to Create Logo Design Contract! Preview 02:19

In this lesson, you will learn another helpful way to create a logo design or other graphic design contract. You will use the template or web form from AIGA to create a logo design contract for your client.

Discussing, Researching, and Contracting Logo Designs

In this quiz, you will be assessed on how much you have learned about discussing, researching, and contracting logo designs.

Brainstorming and Formulating Logo Ideas Preview 00:52

In this lesson, you will be provided an overview of the brainstorming and sketching techniques we will go over in this section.

How to Screenshot Inspiration Preview 02:40

In this lesson, you will learn how to screenshot on a PC or Mac to compile inspiration or competitive logos.

Mind Mapping, Freewriting, and Word Association Preview 02:12

You will learn mind mapping, freewriting, and word association techniques to produce more logo ideas.

Sketching Logo Ideas in Thumbnails Preview 02:16

You will learn the simple yet effective process of sketching logo designs in thumbnails.

Sketching a Monogram Logo Preview 02:12

In this lesson, you will learn how to sketch a monogram logo. Sketching the client's company initials can lead to a simple and distinct logo.

Using Letters as Shapes Preview 02:12

In this lesson, you will learn some tips relating to using letters as shapes in logo design sketching techniques.

Simplifying Objects as Shapes Preview 02:01

In this lesson, you will learn about simplifying objects as shapes in logo design sketching techniques.

[ACTIVITY] Sketch and Scan Critique Preview 00:00

In this activity, you will sketch and then scan or take a photo of your sketch and post to the discussion board for critique.

Versions of Creative Cloud, Toolbar Customization, and Mac vs. PC Preview 08:09

In this short demonstration, I explain how Adobe does update Creative Cloud but that most of the tools and functions have not changed much in the past few versions. I also explain the two primary differences between the Mac and PC in Adobe Illustrator and how to customize or reset the toolbar.

Overview of Illustrator Preview 01:12

Download Support Files for Illustrator Lessons Preview 00:04

Download the support files in the additional resources link of this lesson in the upper right corner.

Common Illustrator Keyboard Shortcuts Preview 2 pages

This printable PDF handout includes common Illustrator keyboard shortcuts.

Panels and Workspaces Preview 04:19

In this lesson, you will learn how to use and customize panels and workspaces in Illustrator.

Navigating and Zooming Preview 01:55

In this lesson you will learn how to zoom and navigate around Illustrator documents. Different tools and keyboard shortcuts are covered.

Creating New Documents Preview 03:51

In this lesson, you will learn how to create custom documents in Illustrator. Options and settings to consider when creating new documents in Illustrator are included.

Working with Multiple Documents Preview 02:59

In this lesson, you will learn how to work with multiple documents in Illustrator, including various ways to move and arrange documents in Illustrator.

Guides and Grids Preview 03:28

In this lesson, you'll learn how to add, remove, adjust, and lock guides. You'll also learn about using grids and snapping shapes to the grid. You'll learn the purpose of smart guides for better alignment in illustrations.

Understanding Paths and Points Preview 02:15

In this lesson, you will learn about paths and points in Illustrator. Anchors, anchor handles, and other parts of vector illustrations are covered.

Fills and Strokes Preview 07:30

In this lesson, you will learn how to apply fills and strokes to objects in Illustrator. Various options and styles are included.

Selection, Direct Selection, and Isolation Mode Preview 08:31

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the selection tool, the direct selection tool, the group selection tool, and how to use isolation mode in Illustrator.

Using the Pen Tool Preview 06:19

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the Pen Tool in Illustrator, including how to draw straight and curved lines and how to reset angles of paths. You will also learn how to add and delete anchor points and use the Anchor Point Tool.

Using the Curvature Tool Preview 02:43

You will learn how to use the Curvature Tool in Adobe Illustrator in this lesson. Keyboard shortcuts and tool options are included. The Curvature Tool is similar to the Pen Tool in Illustrator, but a little different. I explain how they differ and how they are similar in this lesson and when to use the Curvature Tool.

Using the Line Tools Preview 05:03

You will learn how to use the Line Tools effectively in Adobe Illustrator in this lesson. Lines can be customized and adjusted. You will also learn how to use the Arc Tool and the Spiral Tool, as well as the Rectangular Grid Tool and the Polar Grid Tool.

Using the Shape Tools Preview 06:01

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the various shape tools in Adobe Illustrator, including the Rectangle Tool, the Rounded Rectangle Tool, the Ellipse Tool, the Polygon Tool and the Star Tool. You will also be able to customize rounded corners in rectangles and use the Polygon Tool and Star Tool to create more shapes than just the default shapes. For example, you can create a triangle and a diamond shape or a star burst shape used often in advertisements. Shapes can also be stylized and the fill and stroke can be changed.

Using the Brush Tools Preview 06:40

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the Paintbrush Tool and the Blob Brush Tool in Adobe Illustrator, including keyboard shortcuts and best practices. You will learn how to customize and adjust paths after they are drawn with these tools and when each one would be used. Using these tools we can add to currently selected objects or create new ones. It is also easy to adjust the options for the Paintbrush Tool and Blob Brush Tool.

Using the Pencil Tools Preview 05:15

In this lesson, you will learn how to effectively use the Pencil Tool, the Smooth Tool, the Path Eraser Tool, and the Join Tool in Adobe Illustrator. Differences between the Pencil Tool and the Paintbrush Tool are explained. You will also learn how to update options in some of the tools.

[ACTIVITY] Trace and Stylize a City Landscape Preview 07:40

In this activity, you'll practice tracing and stylizing a city landscape with Illustrator.

Using the Type Tool Preview 08:40

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Type Tools, including the Type Tool, the Area Type Tool, the Vertical Type Tool, the Vertical Area Type Tool, and the Touch Type Tool. Various ways to resize and adjust text are included, including changing the size and style of text.

Type on a Path Preview 03:16

In this lesson, you'll learn how to create type on a path in Illustrator and how to adjust the type, including placement and orientation, once it's typed in. Use this method to create type in a circular pattern or on a custom path created with the Pen Tool.

Applying Character and Paragraph Settings Preview 05:40

In this lesson, you'll learn how to modify character and paragraph settings of text in Illustrator, including font size, style, alignment, and more.

Outlining Text Preview 04:47

In this lesson, you'll learn how to outline text and then add effects to text in Illustrator.

[ACTIVITY] Create a Stylized Logo Practice Preview 10:49

In this activity, you'll create a stylized logo.

Using the Magic Wand and Lasso Tools Preview 03:10

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Magic Wand Tool and Lasso Tool in Illustrator in order to select objects.

Using the Eraser Tools Preview 05:33

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the Eraser Tool, Scissors Tool, and the Knife Tool in Adobe Illustrator, to create new shapes or adjust and modify shapes and paths.

Using the Rotate and Reflect Tools Preview 05:41

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Rotate Tool and Reflect Tool in Illustrator.

Using the Scale Tool Preview 04:08

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Scale Tool in Illustrator. You'll also learn how to use the Shear Tool and the Reshape Tool in Illustrator.

Using the Width Tools Preview 04:07

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Width Tool, Warp Tool, Twirl Tool, Pucker Tool, Bloat Tool, Scallop Tool, Crystallize Tool, and Wrinkle Tool in Illustrator. You'll also learn how to customize the options in the tools such as size, angle, and more.

Using the Free Transform Tool Preview 03:03

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Free Transform Tool in Illustrator.

Applying Gradients Preview 04:06

In this lesson, you'll learn how to apply and adjust a gradient in Illustrator.

Using the Eyedropper Tool Preview 03:29

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Eyedropper Tool to copy attributes such as fill and stroke from one object to another. Using a keyboard shortcut to apply multiple changes is also included.

Using the Blend Tool Preview 05:17

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Blend Tool and how it can be used to create custom color schemes as well.

[ACTIVITY] Vector Art Practice Preview 05:28

In this activity, you'll practice creating vector art in Illustrator by using the Width Tools, the Rotate Tool, the Eraser Tool, and applying gradients.

Using the Appearance Panel Preview 03:17

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Appearance Panel to toggle and adjust effects and styles of various objects in Illustrator.

Stylizing Shapes Preview 02:37

In this lesson, you'll learn how to stylize shapes, including adding drop shadows, round corners, the scribble effect, and more. You'll also continue to use the Appearance Panel to adjust these effects.

Envelope Distort and Warp Effects Preview 06:43

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Envelope Distort effect by creating a new look using a top object and some text. Warp effects are also included.

Using the Transform Each Technique for Patterns Preview 04:35

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Transform Each command in Illustrator in order to create unique patterns.

Using the Pathfinder Panel Preview 06:01

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the Pathfinder Tool in Illustrator, in order to combine and customize shapes. For example, Unite, Intersect, Merge, Outline, and other custom effects can be used to modify shapes in Illustrator.

[ACTIVITY] Warped Text on Radial Pattern Preview 04:52

In this activity, you'll practice creating warped text and a radial pattern in Illustrator.

Saving, Exporting, and Packaging Files in Illustrator Preview 02:12

In this lesson, you'll learn how to save, export, and package files in Illustrator, including reasons for using the various functions. File types described include the default AI format as well as EPS, GIF, JPG, PNG, PDF, and more. When you package files it's to include placed images that are linked in an Illustrator file as well as to include fonts. Otherwise, the type should be outlined in case the printer or other person doesn't have the same fonts that you have.

Printing in Illustrator Preview 02:12

In this lesson, you'll learn how to print in Illustrator, either to PDF or a regular printer. Settings such as fitting to page and orientation are included.

Design of Client Logo, Part 1: Drawing from Scanned Sketch Preview 10:19

In this lesson, you will learn from the first step in my logo design process in Adobe Illustrator. I use some scans of logo sketches and then create some designs in Illustrator and brainstorm along the way.

Design of Client Logo, Part 2: Sketching a Monogram Logo in Illustrator Preview 13:04

In this lesson, you will learn how to sketch a monogram logo in Illustrator. I continue my design of a client logo.

Design of Client Logo, Part 3: Applying Color to Logos Preview 14:27

In this lesson, I add color to the logo designs for my client. You will learn about what types of color modes are available in Illustrator and why we want to use specific color modes for specific uses. You will learn about RGB, CMYK or process colors, as well as Pantone or spot colors.

Edits of Logos and Finalization Preview 05:50

In this lesson, I show various logo designs I created in Illustrator for my client and how I finalized some designs to send to the client.

What Files to Send to Your Logo Design Client Preview 10:32

In this lesson, you will learn what raster version (PNG, JPG, PSD), vector version (AI, EPS), and other files (such as a PDF copy) to send to the client.

Sample Logo Design Invoice Preview 1 page

This is a sample invoice for a logo design, so you can learn from this example to write and use a logo design invoice for a client.

How to Find New Logo Design Clients Preview 05:10

You will learn how to find logo design clients, including reaching out and networking and getting discovered with a logo design portfolio.

Logo Design Business: Traditional Clients vs. Third-Party Sites Preview 03:29

You will learn the differences between and pros and cons of traditional clients and third-party clients in logo design.

Another Fun Way to Build Your Logo Design Portfolio! Preview 02:34

You will learn how to use logo contests to build your logo design portfolio.

Designing Logos in Illustrator: More Logo Design Techniques Preview 01:12

You will learn an overview of these bonus logo design techniques in Illustrator.

[ACTIVITY] Negative Space in Logo Design with Illustrator Preview 08:23

You will learn about using negative space in logo design effectively in Illustrator. By looking at case studies of negative space in logo designs, we then use some techniques for negative space in logo design in Adobe Illustrator.

[ACTIVITY] Using Photoshop Custom Shapes in Illustrator Preview 06:13

You will learn how to use custom shapes in Adobe Photoshop to use as vector shapes in Adobe Illustrator. You can then customize the shapes for specific logo designs.

[ACTIVITY] Freeform Shapes in Logos Preview 07:30

You will learn how to create freeform shapes in Adobe Illustrator to create symbols in logo designs.

[ACTIVITY] Drawing over a Photo for a Logo Design Preview 08:00

You will learn how to draw over a photo to design a logo in Adobe Illustrator. By using layers and the Pen tool, we can create an effective and stylized logo from a photo.

[ACTIVITY] Creating and Using a Custom Brush in a Logo Preview 04:52

You will learn how to create a custom brush to use in a logo design in Adobe Illustrator.

[ACTIVITY] Using Shape Builder and Live Paint Bucket Tools for Logos Preview 08:38

You will learn how to use the Shape Builder and Live Paint Bucket tools for logo designs in Adobe Illustrator.

Section Introduction - Using Adobe Dimension to Present Logo Concepts to Clients Preview 02:17

In this section, you will learn how to use Adobe Dimension to add a logo to a 3D model in a scene, in order to present it to a client.

Installing Adobe Dimension Preview 02:07

Learn how to install Adobe Dimension with Adobe Creative Cloud Application.

Adobe Dimension System Requirements and Project Support Files Preview 00:04

This text lesson links to Adobe Dimension system requirements and includes the support files to practice with.

Adobe Dimension Workspace and Tools Introduction Preview 06:55

Review the Dimension workspace and tools.

Adding and Customizing a 3D Model Preview 06:35

Add and customize a 3D model in Dimension.

Applying and Customizing a Material on a 3D Model Preview 05:46

Apply and customize a material to the surface of a 3D model.

Applying Graphics to a 3D Model Product Preview 06:35

Learn how to apply graphics to 3D models in Dimension.

Applying a Logo Graphic to a 3D Model Preview 07:59

Apply a logo design graphic to a 3D model in Dimension.

Adjusting Cameras and Adding Camera Bookmarks Preview 07:10

Learn how to adjust the camera angles and zooms in Dimension and add camera bookmarks to include later when rendering.

Adding Lighting Schemes and Adjusting Lighting Preview 06:11

Rendering to PNG or PSD Images for Logo Presentation Preview 04:39

Learn how to render scenes to PNG or PSD format from Dimension, including various considerations.

Edits of Logo Presentation in Photoshop Preview 06:37

Learn how to use Adobe Photoshop to adjust and edit the image of the logo design presentation and concept before presenting it to a client.

Conclusion: Logo Design and Illustrator Preview 00:55

You will learn from an overview of the course on logo design and Adobe Illustrator in this brief conclusion to the course.

Bonus: Learn Even More in My Other Courses! Preview 01:28

Enroll in my other Udemy courses using these coupon links! I have courses on Photoshop, Freelance Writing for Income, and InDesign.