Course Description

A study and use of vector graphics for production. Skill development in the use of the tools and transformation options of Adobe Illustrator to create complex vector illustrations for print and web-based media. Mastery in manipulation of both text and graphics with emphasis on the use of the pen tool as well as the correct use and management of different color modes. 

Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites.

Course Rationale/Objectives

Vector Graphics for Production is an entry-level Adobe Illustrator based course where students will learn the software skills to create vector graphics for print and web projects. Students learn to communicate through their visual solutions to the projects. Students will learn to solve visual problems using vector art, giving them an important additional skill when they become entry-level designers. Additionally they learn to exchange ideas, approximating a real-world working atmosphere.

Required Text: Adobe Illustrator CC Classroom in a Book: 2020 Release (ISBN-13: 978-0-13-641267-0)

Recommended for Reference: Visual QuickStart Guide for Adobe Illustrator CC (ISBN:978-0-133-98703-4)

Materials: media storage, such as jump drive, to transport and save assignments.

Competency MODULE 1

WEEKs 1 – 4 Instructor Demos:

• Illustrator Workspace
• File Management
• Keyboard Shortcuts
• Drawing with the Pen tool
• GPU Performance
• Creating Compound Paths
• Creating Shapes and Using Fills & Strokes
• Selecting/Moving
• Using Templates
• Linking vs Embedding Placed Images
• Use of Properties Panel
• Basics of Guides and Layers
• Use of Pathfinder Panel, Shape Builder Tool and Shaper Tool

Assignments

CiB Lesson 1: Getting to Know the Work Area

CiB Lesson 2: Techniques for Selecting Artwork

CiB Lesson 3: Using Shapes to Create Artwork for a Postcard

CiB Lesson 4: Editing and Combining Shapes and Paths

CiB Lesson 6: Using the Basic Drawing Tools

CIB Lesson 7: Drawing with the Pen Tool

Quiz 1: CiB Lessons 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7

Exercise: Scissors

Exercise: Pathfinder and Shape modes

Project 1: Family of Icons / part 1 First Icon and Sketches of 3 Others

Project 1: Family of Icons completed

Competency MODULE 2

WEEK 5 – 8 Instructor Demos:

• Image Trace and Puppet Warp
• Point Type Basics, Area Type & Type on a Path
• Live Paint
• Creating Paragraph and Character Styles for Type
• Creating Colors
• Using Text Wrap around Graphics
• Using Libraries (Pantone Colors)
• Layer Management
• Using the Width Tool and Width Profiles
• Converting Type to Outlines to Modify Letterforms

Assignments

CiB Lesson 5: Transforming Artwork

CiB Lesson 8: Using Color to Enhance Signage

CiB Lesson 9: Adding Type to a Poster

CiB Lesson 10: Organizing Your Artwork with Layers

Quiz 2: CiB Lessons 5, 8, 9 and 10

Exercise: Eveready Logo

Exercise: Image Trace

Exercise: Working with Type

Project 2: ASO flier / part 1 Maestro and sketches of layout

Project 2: ASO flier completed

Competency MODULE 3

WEEKs 9 – 12 Instructor Demos:

• Gradients, gradient mesh and blends
• Sampling Colors
• Using the Brush tools
• Creating a Group of Global Colors
• File planning and organization

Assignments

CiB Lesson 11: Gradients, Blends and Patterns

CiB Lesson 12: Using Brushes to Create a Poster

CiB Lesson 14: Creating Artwork for a T-Shirt

Exercise: Bird and Butterfly Gradient and Gradient Mesh

Exercise: Create a Map using Symbols, Brushes and more

Project 3: WPA poster / part 1 Planning file

Project 3: WPA poster completed

Competency MODULE 4

WEEKS 13 – 16 Instructor Demos:

• Recolor Tools
• Using Symbols
• Appearance Panel
• Various Effects, including 3D
• Creating PDFs
• Brush review
• Using Clipping Masks

Assignments

CiB Lesson 13: Exploring Creative Uses of Effects and Graphic Styles

CiB Lesson 15: Using Illustrator with other Adobe Applications

CiB Lesson 16: Sharing Projects

Quiz 3: CiB Chapters 11 – 16

Exercise: Recolor Artwork

Exercise: Bulldog 3D Illustration

Exercise: Creating a PDF with a working URL

Project 4: Greeting Card 

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify the capabilities and functions of drawing, transformation and shape tools in Adobe Illustrator
• Demonstrate skills in the use of vector specific capabilities for typesetting
• Show efficient planning and file organization techniques
• Apply conceptual planning techniques in the development of graphic design pieces
• Analyze production problems encountered and recommend solutions
• Apply skills in the combination of raster and vector elements to create design work
• Distinguish between, and correctly apply, the various color models for print and web-based projects
• Demonstrate knowledge of advanced tools in Adobe Illustrator such as custom patterns, clipping paths, symbols, graphic styles and various effects including 3D
• Decide when vector graphics will be the appropriate solution for a specific graphic design project

What you’ll learn to do by the end of the Graphic Design Program:

• Use industry standard vector, raster, and layout software tools to produce graphic design for print and digital media.
• Apply the design process (define problem, define audience, research and gather ideas, create form, evaluate and assess, produce and explain final solution) in the production of graphic design for print and digital media.
• Select appropriate color, typefaces, layouts and concepts to produce graphic design for print and digital media.
• Produce designs, concepts and layouts based on current industry standards for print and digital media.

What you’ll learn to do by the end of the Graphic Arts Technology Program:

• Use industry standard vector, raster and layout software tools to produce graphic design for print and digital media.
• Apply the production process (define project parameters, prepare assets, produce design, prepare output) for print and digital media.
• Independently produce graphic design work to project specifications.