Here’s a list of ten resources to get you started with graphic design. All the resources below are free to use, but some do have premium options if you would like to subscribe to the advanced versions.
Design Software
The first thing you’ll need is access to a graphic design platform. These platforms allow you to create animated social media posts, posters, presentations etc. All you need to do is create an account and you’re ready to go! You will also have access to templates, an image library, and fonts to get you started with your designs. (There are tutorials if you get stuck.)
1. Canva – https://www.canva.com/login
2. Crello – https://crello.com/
3. Figma – https://www.figma.com/
Vector Resources
A vector is a graphic that is resizable without losing quality, meaning that it is not made up of pixels. There are lots of vector libraries online where you can download various vector graphics. For example, you might want to use a heart vector for a Valentine’s Day card. A vector library can provide you with this sort of material if you’re not sure how to create it yourself. When searching, make sure to use the filters and select ‘free’ for all the free resources.
4. Vecteezy – https://www.vecteezy.com/ They have also have a free vector editing tool!
5. FreePik – https://www.freepik.com/
Icons
This is an online library where you can download various icons. E.g if you needed to add an Instagram icon to your poster, this is the place you’d go to find one. It also allows you to custom download the icons so you can specify what colour you need the icon in.
6. Icons DB – https://www.iconsdb.com/
Fonts
Even though the graphic design platforms above have their own font libraries, you may have other fonts that you would like to use. A good source for fonts are:
7. Google Fonts – https://fonts.google.com/
8. DaFont – https://www.dafont.com/
Image Libraries
Images are a big part of design and using the right imagery is key. Here are some free stock websites:
9. Pexels – https://www.pexels.com/
10. Unsplash – https://unsplash.com/
