For people looking to enter the world of graphic design but don’t have the resources to pay for expensive college tuition, there are a number of free options that can help you get started. With the help of online learning tools and open source software, anyone can become a self-taught graphic designer. Here are some of the best ways to study graphic design for free.
Take Online Courses
Thanks to the internet and its many resources, it’s now easier than ever to take free online courses in graphic design. Platforms like Coursera and edX offer a variety of courses on topics such as typography, logo design, and digital illustration.
Many of these courses are taught by experienced professionals and leading experts in the field. So if you’re looking for an introduction to graphic design or want to brush up on your skills, these courses are a great place to start.
Use Open Source Software
Graphic design software can be expensive and out of reach for many people. Thankfully, there are plenty of open source software programs that offer similar features for free.
For example, Inkscape is an excellent vector graphics editor that is compatible with most operating systems. Similarly, GIMP is a great raster graphics editor that offers all the features you need for basic image editing.
Follow Tutorials Online
There’s no shortage of tutorials available online that can teach you how to use various software programs or specific techniques in graphic design. Sites like YouTube and Vimeo have hundreds of tutorials created by experienced designers who share their knowledge freely.
Even better, they often break down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps so even beginners can understand them.
Network With Other Designers
Networking with other designers is one of the best ways to learn about new techniques or stay up-to-date with trends in the industry. There are numerous websites dedicated to helping designers connect with each other such as Dribble and Behance where you can share your work and get feedback from others.
Conclusion
Studying graphic design doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult – there are plenty of free resources available online that can help you get started or improve your skills. From taking online courses and using open source software to following tutorials and networking with other designers, there’s something out there for everyone who wants to learn more about graphic design.