Quick Facts
- Duration: 92 minutes
- Level: Intermediate
- Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Understanding of typography fundamentals
- Instructor: Aaron Draplin, Designer and Founder, Draplin Design Company
Get this course FREE on Skillshare
Is This Course Right For You?
Ideal For
- Graphic Designers - Professionals looking to enhance their typography customization skills
- Brand Designers - Those working on logo and wordmark projects
Not Recommended If
- Complete beginners with no Adobe Illustrator experience
- Those seeking advanced typography theory
Key Learning Outcomes
- Create custom wordmarks from existing typefaces
- Master kerning and tracking techniques
- Develop skills in letterform modification
- Prepare designs for print production
Get this course FREE on Skillshare
How You'll Learn
Teaching Style Distribution
- Video Lectures: 30%
- Hands-on Practice: 40%
- Interactive Elements: 10%
- Projects/Assignments: 20%
Primary Learning Methods
- Method1: Demonstration - Step-by-step walkthrough of type customization, example: Modifying letterforms in Portland wordmark
- Method2: Real-world Application - Creating designs for actual merchandise, example: Designing for patches and coin purses
Best Suited Learning Styles
- Visual learners
- Hands-on practitioners
- Project-based learners
Get this course FREE on Skillshare
Content Depth Analysis
Major Topics
1. Type Customization Fundamentals (30% of course)
- Depth Level: Intermediate
- Key Components:
- Kerning and tracking
- Letterform modification
- Shape manipulation
- Main Takeaways: Key learnings
2. Production Preparation (20% of course)
- Depth Level: Advanced
- Key Components:
- File preparation
- Vendor specifications
- Print requirements
- Main Takeaways: Key learnings
Coverage Overview
Comprehensive Coverage
- Type customization techniques
- Production file preparation
Foundational Coverage
- Typography basics
- Design software usage
Limited Coverage
- Typography theory
- Advanced type design principles
Get this course FREE on Skillshare
Skill Development Path
Required Starting Point
Must Have:
- Adobe Illustrator proficiency
- Basic typography knowledge
Helpful to Have:
- Design experience
- Understanding of print production
Development Stages
1. Foundation Phase
Skills Developed:
- Kerning and tracking mastery
- Basic letterform modification
Practical Outcomes:
- Create basic custom wordmarks
- Modify existing typefaces
Get this course FREE on Skillshare
Success Factors
Keys to Success
- Regular practice with type customization
- Willingness to experiment
- Attention to detail
- Understanding of production requirements
Preparation Steps
Before Starting:
- Review Adobe Illustrator basics
- Gather reference materials
Recommended Resources:
- Adobe Illustrator
- Sketching materials
Next Courses:
- Advanced typography courses
- Print production courses
Get this course FREE on Skillshare