Basic Guide: Teach Yourself Graphic Design

Ever heard these phrases? "Learn graphic design with CorelDRAW" or maybe this one: "Smart design within 24 hours with Photoshop"? These are some examples of the development of a mistaken understanding of graphic design in general. I write this article just to straighten out mistakes before so that beginners who want to pursue the field of graphic design have clear guidance in the act. There are few basic tips that I find helpful for the beginner who wants to seriously pursue the field of graphic design. This simple guide is also highly recommended by professional graphic designers. So, why don't you try!

1. Learn the theories and basic rules of graphic design

Graphic design is the applied art dedicated to communicating the message. There is a theory and the basic rules that must be learned to achieve deep understanding of graphic design. One fundamental lesson is familiar with the basic principles of graphic design. One of the famous designer from Australia: Jacob Cass, in his article are advised to study the basic theory of graphic design as a basic foundation in the work.

Here are some articles that can be used as a reference for learning the basic theory of design:

Want to know how to design? Learn The Basics
50 Totally Free Lessons in Graphic Design Theory
5 Important Points to Know About Color Theory
Balance in graphic design
Design is the Applied Art

2. Learn Graphics Software

After understanding the functions and methods of use of the basic elements of graphic design, you need to learn how to execute the work using graphics software. There are many graphics applications that are available these days, from the paid until a free one!

To create a vector-based work, you can use Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. Both are paid software. There is also a kind of a free application, namely Inkscape. The application is pretty good and could be an alternative if you have trouble to buy a paid software. For raster-based image editing application that is currently the most popular is Photoshop and for the alternative I would recommend Pixelmator (a type of specialized software for the Macintosh operating system). There are also some supporting software such as 3ds max and Cinema 4d to create three-dimensional pattern of graphic format.

I recommend to learn only as needed. Because the nucleus from the use of software in graphic design is to realize the ideas and concepts into real work. It's up to whatever application you use, make sure it is capable and suitable to realize our ideas into an artwork.

3. Become a Collector

If you really to be a graphic designer, it's time for you to become a collector of works of design. It will make us get the intake of inspiration for the work. You can start by collecting the simple designs eg flyers, brochures, business cards, posters, magazines, etc.. Then proceed to surf the internet and bookmark sites and graphic design inspiration. Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter are also very nice to stay up to date to observe the latest developments from the design community worldwide.

Here are some articles contain a collection of inspirational designs and sites worth a visit:

Top 100 Graphic Design Blogs
20 Must Subscribe Blogs Graphic Design

4. Practice!

Practice, practice, and practice! All the points above would not be useful if you don't practice and implement them directly. In the context of graphic design, it would requires a project to train. You can start from the closest thing like making a logo and personal branding for yourself. It can also be obtained from family and closest friends. Maybe a small value, so intend it to learn! You can also train and hone your graphic design skills by creating a fictitious project and redesign anothers artwork. There are many ways to practice, so practice!

5. Understanding the Function and Role of Graphic Designers

Graphic designers are problem solvers. Most of problems come from the client, and graphic designers will be appointed to solve the problem according to the applied knowledge and experience possessed. The Interaction between client and designer requires a graphic designer for a variety of other supporting aspects such as mental attitudes, communication and presentation skills, ability to identify problems, and so on.


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