How can you use squash and stretch to improve your 2D animations?

1 Why squash and stretch?

Squash and stretch is based on the observation that most objects are not rigid, but flexible and malleable. When an object is in motion, it tends to squash when it compresses and stretch when it extends. For example, a bouncing ball squashes when it hits the ground and stretches when it flies in the air. This deformation gives the object a sense of volume, mass, and energy. Without squash and stretch, an object would look stiff and lifeless, as if it had no internal structure or force.

2 How to apply squash and stretch?

To apply squash and stretch to your 2D animations, you need to consider two factors: the amount and the direction. The amount of squash and stretch depends on the speed and the impact of the object. The faster and the harder the object moves, the more it squashes and stretches. For example, a rubber ball will squash and stretch more than a metal ball. The direction of squash and stretch depends on the direction of the motion. The object should squash and stretch along the axis of the motion, not perpendicular to it. For example, a ball should squash vertically when it bounces, not horizontally.

3 What are the benefits of squash and stretch?

Squash and stretch can benefit your 2D animations in several ways. First, it can create a sense of realism and physics, by showing how objects react to forces and gravity. Second, it can create a sense of exaggeration and humor, by showing how objects deform beyond their natural limits. Third, it can create a sense of personality and emotion, by showing how objects express their feelings through their shapes. For example, a character can squash when they are scared or sad, and stretch when they are happy or surprised.

4 How to avoid common mistakes?

Squash and stretch can also create some problems if used incorrectly or excessively. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using squash and stretch in your 2D animations. First, do not break the volume or the proportions of the object. The object should maintain its original size and shape, even when it squashes and stretches. For example, a ball should not become smaller or larger when it bounces, but only change its form. Second, do not lose the consistency or the continuity of the object. The object should follow a smooth and logical trajectory, even when it squashes and stretches. For example, a ball should not change its direction or speed abruptly when it bounces, but only change its angle and height.

5 How to practice squash and stretch?

One of the best ways to practice squash and stretch is to observe and imitate real-life objects and movements. You can use reference videos or photos of bouncing balls, swinging pendulums, jumping animals, or any other objects that squash and stretch. You can also use simple shapes, such as circles, squares, or triangles, to experiment with different amounts and directions of squash and stretch. You can use a software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Blender to create your 2D animations, or you can use a traditional method like flipbooks or paper cutouts. The key is to have fun and be creative with your squash and stretch animations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?