How to Get the Software

  • Download the free trial
    Students and teachers are eligible for a discount. Start by downloading the 7-day free trial, making sure to use your school email address when you sign up.
  • You can use Illustrator in the Makerspace Lab or Design Lab by signing into Adobe using your Los Rios W# and password.
  • Use Illustrator at the DDSN Design Lab
  • Take DDSN 341 Digital Illustration for Graphic Design I
  • Tips & Tricks
  • Get Started Tutorials from Adobe.
  • Image Trace lets you convert raster images (JPEG, PNG, PSD etc.) to vector artwork. Using this feature, you can easily base a new drawing on an existing piece of artwork by tracing it.
  • Use the Adobe Capture App to automatically convert to vector shapes.

Tips & Tricks


Slides: Illustrator for Makerspace

  • Get Started Tutorials from Adobe
    • ARTBOARDS represent the printable area / can be different sizes and orientations, be arranged and overlap
    • LAYERS contain objects and are stacked. Can be arranged to bring content in front of or behind other content.
    • COLORS: Vector artwork can have a stroke (border) and a fill, either can be a color, gradient, or pattern. Swatches panel stores the documents colors.
    • ADD TEXT: Use the Type tool, type text, change size, color, and other appearances in type panel. To set text: Create Outlines main menu> Type > Create Outlines
  • Image Trace lets you convert raster images (JPEG, PNG, PSD etc.) to vector artwork. Using this feature, you can easily base a new drawing on an existing piece of artwork by tracing it.
  • Use the Adobe Capture App to automatically convert to vector shapes.

Cut lines for Stickers: Offset Path