Julie Learns Online Too...
Remember when I mentioned I was taking fashion illustration courses online? That didn't go over to well for me.. Remember when I said I was taking Illustrator CS6 online classes? Those were much better!
As I sat for hours learning the new software, I couldn't help by think to myself how this type of learning really is excellent. Here I have the ability to watch a lesson.. and to RE-WATCH it over and over, clicking along with my instructor until my own "clicking" moment took place.. And I have to tell you.... some of those moments took a long time.
But what is this for? I initially thought I would use these new fundamentals to spruce up my website, my class handouts, etc.. But there really is no limit! Combined with my Photoshop skills, the possibilities are endless... whatever I see...whatever graphic or pattern I see, I can break it down..and make it my own. Stencils, papers, business cards, stationary, logos... I am thrilled.
I never thought I needed all this.. I would usually sit at Photoshop and crank something out after a few hours.. but now? Minutes. And this is the tip of the iceberg.. I am no way an expert in design.. but the seeds are planted. I learned a valuable lesson during the three classes that I took. I ordered the classes and added up the run times.. Say it was something like 13 hours.. I plotted 13 hours out on my calendar and figured that would be all. Nope. I ended up spending about 3 weeks in the classroom.. and I still go back for reference. Which makes me realize.. and maybe you already knew this... you can't do a new thing one time and be a pro at it. It takes time to learn skills. SKILLS.
So the next time you are planning your day..and if it involves a class or two... plot double..maybe triple the time you think you will need... and absorb everything. Really absorb it. You will be happy you did.
Graphics in this post: Julie Prichard
Illustrator Classes: Laura Coyle via Renee Pearson
Font #1 created by Missy Austin for Lost Type Co-op; edited by Julie Prichard