What are the most essential digital illustration tools for beginners?

1 A drawing tablet

A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to draw on a surface with a stylus and see your strokes on a computer screen. It is one of the most important tools for digital illustration, as it gives you more control, accuracy, and sensitivity than a mouse or a trackpad. A drawing tablet can also simulate different types of brushes, pens, and erasers, and let you adjust the pressure, tilt, and size of your strokes. There are different types of drawing tablets, such as pen tablets, display tablets, and tablet computers, and they vary in size, price, and features. You can choose the one that suits your budget, preference, and skill level.

3 A reference library

A reference library is a collection of images, videos, books, or websites that you can use as inspiration, guidance, or information for your digital illustrations. It is a useful tool for digital illustration, as it helps you to improve your skills, learn new techniques, and avoid plagiarism. A reference library can include various sources, such as photos of real objects, animals, or people, artworks by other artists, tutorials, courses, or blogs. You can create your own reference library by saving, bookmarking, or organizing the resources that interest you.

4 A sketchbook

A sketchbook is a book or a pad of paper that you can use to draw your ideas, concepts, or drafts for your digital illustrations. It is a handy tool for digital illustration, as it helps you to practice your skills, experiment with different styles, and develop your creativity. A sketchbook can also be a place where you can express yourself, have fun, and relax. You can use any type of sketchbook that you like, such as plain, lined, or dotted paper, and any type of drawing tools, such as pencils, pens, or markers.

5 A community

A community is a group of people who share your interest, passion, or goal for digital illustration. It is a valuable tool for digital illustration, as it helps you to get feedback, support, advice, and motivation from others who understand your challenges and achievements. A community can also be a source of inspiration, learning, and collaboration, as you can discover new artists, techniques, and projects. You can join a community online or offline, such as forums, social media, groups, clubs, or events.

6 A portfolio

A portfolio is a collection of your best digital illustrations that showcase your skills, style, and personality. It is a crucial tool for digital illustration, as it helps you to present your work to potential clients, employers, or audiences. A portfolio can also be a way to track your progress, evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and set your goals. You can create your own portfolio online or offline, such as on a website, a blog, a social media, or a printed book.

7 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?