What are some tools and resources for creating and exporting vector icons for mobile apps?

1 Design tools

The first step to create vector icons for mobile apps is to choose a design tool that suits your needs and preferences. There are many options available, ranging from professional software such as Adobe Illustrator or Sketch, to online platforms such as Figma or Iconscout, to specialized apps such as IconJar or Iconfinder. Each tool has its own features, advantages, and limitations, so you should compare them and try them out before deciding. Some factors to consider are the cost, the ease of use, the customization options, the collaboration features, and the integration with other tools.

2 Style guides

The next step to create vector icons for mobile apps is to follow some style guides that can help you achieve consistency, clarity, and coherence in your icon design. Style guides are sets of rules and recommendations that define the appearance, behavior, and meaning of icons in a specific context. For example, Google's Material Design Icons or Apple's Human Interface Guidelines provide detailed guidelines for designing icons for Android and iOS platforms, respectively. You can also find style guides for other platforms, such as Windows or Flutter, or create your own based on your app's brand identity and target audience.

3 Optimization tools

The third step to create vector icons for mobile apps is to optimize your icons for performance, quality, and compatibility. Optimization tools are software or online services that can help you reduce the file size, improve the resolution, and adjust the format of your icons. For example, SVGOMG or TinyPNG can compress your icons without losing quality, while Icon Resizer or MakeAppIcon can generate different sizes and formats for different devices and platforms. Optimization tools can also help you avoid common issues such as pixelation, blurring, or distortion of your icons.

4 Export tools

The final step to create vector icons for mobile apps is to export your icons to the appropriate format and location. Export tools are features or plugins that can help you save, export, or import your icons in a convenient and efficient way. For example, Adobe Illustrator or Sketch have built-in export options that allow you to export your icons as SVG, PNG, PDF, or other formats, while Figma or Iconscout have cloud-based export options that allow you to access your icons from anywhere. Export tools can also help you organize, rename, or batch export your icons.

5 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?