Illustrator: Tracing Artwork

1h 24mIntermediate2017-11-30

Authors

Justin Seeley

Graphic Designer, Software Trainer

Course details

Discover how to trace artwork in Adobe Illustrator and convert raster graphics—drawings, photos, and more—into vector form. This course shows how to perform auto tracing with the presets in the Image Trace panel and then expand tracing objects into vector paths. Instructor Justin Seeley also shows how to refine the artwork for best results using the Path Eraser and the Pen tools, and reset any typography. The course closes with a challenge video so you can practice your skills and compare your tracing results with Justin's.

Learning objectives
Working with Image Trace presets
Setting up artwork
Performing a basic trace with a preset
Erasing and adding paths
Refining paths with strokes and widths
Resetting typography

Skills covered

IllustrationIllustratorAdobeAnimation and IllustrationDeep Dive (X:Y)

Concepts

0. Introduction

01 - Welcome
02 - How to use the exercise files
03 - Connect with the instructor

1. Break Down the Image Trace Panel

04 - Work with presets
05 - Change what you see with views
06 - What are palettes
07 - Challenge - Choose the right preset
08 - Solution - Choose the right preset

2. Perform a Basic Trace

09 - Clean up artwork in Photoshop
10 - Place artwork into Illustrator
11 - Start off with a preset
12 - Adjust settings to refine art
13 - Expand your artwork into vector paths
14 - Challenge - Trace a logo
15 - Solution - Trace a logo

3. Clean Up the Artwork

16 - Erase and add new paths
17 - Refine paths with strokes and widths
18 - Reset typography
19 - Add extra artwork to a design

4. Project - Trace Artwork

20 - Challenge - Perform a trace yourself
21 - Solution - Perform a trace yourself

Conclusion

22 - Next steps