8 Easy DIY Graphic Design Projects

You don’t have to be a pro designer to create stunning visuals! Nowadays,...

What is UX Design? Understanding User Experience, Meaning, and the UX Design Process

<h2>Plan Your YouTube Channel Art and Grow Your Brand</h2>
<p>You have put time and effort into creating a YouTube channel that features catchy and professional-looking videos of your products and services as a way to attract customers and grow your brand. But did you take the time to create an effective, eye-catching YouTube banner design? When users seek out your YouTube channel page, you want your image to quickly convey your brand and make a great first impression. A well-designed YouTube banner will make sure users know who you are, and it will also aid in their wanting to come back your way for more YouTube videos.</p>
<h2>What Makes a Great YouTube Banner?</h2>
<p>A great banner needs <a href="/graphic-design/articles/">great graphic design</a>. (Here are some hints on <a href="/content/the-7-most-common-graphic-design-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/">graphic design mistakes to avoid</a> and <a href="/content/essential-types-of-graphic-design-that-every-business-needs/">types of graphic designs</a>.) But when it comes to a YouTube banner, what does great graphic design mean?</p>
<p>Online content is all about holding the user’s attention. YouTube competes with other social media sites, and, in a way, everyone uploading content to YouTube is also competing with one another for users' attention. When someone lands on your YouTube channel, then, you want to make sure you've done everything you can to keep them there.</p>
<p>YouTube can be accessed from desktop computers, iPads, smartphones, televisions, and more. If you're not careful in how you create it and format it, your banner may appear different on different types and sizes of screens. With the right design, however, your banner will still look good on any screen.</p>
<p>Include these key characteristics in your YouTube banner design for screen compatibility across sizes and brands.</p>
<hr />
<p><strong>Best Graphic Design Software &amp; Tools</strong></p>
<p>[prod_list id=30193,5842,5838]</p>
<hr />
<h3>Clean and Clear</h3>
<p>Too many images or text will clutter your banner. Give users a clear focus with a minimalist design. Use large, legible fonts and a maximum of four colors. In other words, keep it simple.<img class="aligncenter wp-image-11518 size-full" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/An-example-of-an-effective-YouTube-banner-design-with-four-colors-and-legible-fonts-that-says-“The-Old-School-Game-Guys22.png" alt="An example of an effective YouTube banner design with four colors and legible fonts that says, “The Old School Game Guys&quot;." width="936" height="526" /></p>
<h3>Use High-Quality Profile Pictures</h3>
<p>Your YouTube banner will show up as the background image at the top of your YouTube homepage, so you need to make sure any cover photo you use really pops. Although Google gives minimum image requirements (see below), you can maximize your impact by using header art that is clear and bright.</p>
<h3>Highlight Your Brand</h3>
<p>Users need to know what you are offering at a glance. Whether you include your logo, a photo, or a tagline, it should be obvious to visitors who you are. Keep the banner consistent with the tone of your brand.</p>
<h3>Link to Your Website</h3>
<p>Embed a link in your banner to your website and other social media platforms. Use the bottom right corner for your links, or use a “subscribe” button.</p>
<p>There is no image source for this image bc I made it. If you download the doc as HTML, though, you can get the image from the image files.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter wp-image-11520 size-full" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Same-YouTube-banner-design-that-looks-great-with-appropriate-dimensions-colors-fonts-and-profile-pic.png" alt="Same YouTube banner design that looks great with appropriate dimensions, colors, fonts, and profile pic" width="936" height="234" /></p>
<h2>YouTube Banner Size Guidelines and More</h2>
<p>Remember, your banner will look different on different media, so you must follow the standard requirements for your banner art to protect the integrity of your design. Using industry-standard YouTube banner dimensions, fonts, and image sizes will help you create a YouTube banner that works across screen sizes and types. Here are some specifics to help ensure your YouTube banner is in line with YouTube guidelines.</p>
<h3>YouTube Channel Art Size</h3>
<p>There are specific design criteria and image dimensions to which your YouTube banner must adhere. <a href="https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2972003#zippy=%2Cchange-your-banner-image">Google describes the YouTube banner requirements</a> as follows: Minimum dimension for upload: 2048 x 1152 px [pixels] with an aspect ratio of 16:9. At the minimum dimension, the safe area for text and logos is 1235 x 338 px. Larger images may get cropped on certain views or devices such as mobile devices. Make sure your file size is 6 MB or smaller. Google's suggestion around the recommended YouTube banner size is 2560 pixels wide x 1440 pixels tall.</p>
<p>Adhering to these dimensions will help make the image viewable across devices. Pay special attention to the “safe area”. Elements outside the safe area are at risk of being cropped. That means at the very least, make sure your logo is inside the safe area.</p>
<hr />
<p><strong>Related Articles</strong></p>
<p>[articles]</p>
<hr />
<h3>Templates are Your Friend</h3>
<p>There are a plethora of templates available across the internet. If you want to <a href="/logo-design/">highlight your logo</a> with a basic design, using a free or low-cost YouTube banner template can be a good choice. Template apps adhere to YouTube requirements and allow you to view your design across all devices, ensuring an accurate design. Do your research first, and find a channel art template on a site like <a href="/b/canva/canva+graphic-design/">Canva</a> that is fast and easy to use.</p>
<h3>Consider Hiring a Graphic Designer</h3>
<p>Unless you are a Photoshop expert, consider hiring a respected <a href="/content/8-easy-diy-graphic-design-projects/">graphic designer</a> who will save you time and money. The right designer will have the skills to incorporate all the YouTube design requirements and highlight the best of your brand. A designer will be able to resize images for proper viewing across devices, understand when to use GIFs, BMPs, or PNGs, and should also have the skills to create your video thumbnails and other graphics used on YouTube Studio (YouTube’s content manager.)</p>
<h2>Get Noticed with the Right YouTube Banner</h2>
<p>Don’t underestimate the power of your YouTube channel banner. Ensuring users come back time and again, subscribe to your channel, and share content can be tied back to your banner image. Turn first-time visitors into loyal viewers and customers with a banner that represents your brand and stands out from the rest.</p>
<p>Compare top <a href="/graphic-design/">graphic design software companies</a>, including Adobe and Insight, to help you select the right <a href="/graphic-design/free/">graphic design software</a> solution.</p>
<p>Explore more on <a href="https://sonary.com/">Sonary</a> for reviews, data, and comparison tools to find your next software solutions.</p>

Design a YouTube Banner That Looks Great On Every Screen

<p>These days, many people fancy themselves, graphic designers. This is part of the tech rave that seems to have grabbed a majority of the youth population. As expected, many of these self-proclaimed graphic designers do not know the basics of design and often make tons of <a href="https://sonary.com/content/the-7-most-common-graphic-design-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/">cringe-worthy mistakes</a>.</p>
<p> In 2020, there were more than 400,256 businesses using graphic designers.  </p>
<p>The youngsters are doing something right by pivoting towards graphic design despite their ignorance. As of 2020, there were more than 400,256<a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/global/market-research-reports/global-graphic-designers-industry/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> businesses</a> working directly or indirectly with graphic designers. Visuals have become a major way to retain and extend attention, helping businesses thrive.</p>
<p>At the very least, it makes sense to know the basics of graphic design. Here's a guide to seven graphic fundamentals. This guide to graphic design may not make you a pro, but it will help you get started.</p>
<div data-google-ads="article-ads"></div>
<h2>What is Graphic Design?</h2>
<p>Graphic design is the process of creating visuals using various design elements. It is the use of art and technology to communicate. This feature makes it a subset of visual communication in that graphic elements are used to pass a message</p>
<p>Elements of design include texts, images, lines, pictures, and symbols. There is no one way that the elements are supposed to be combined. That is left to the wit and intuition of the designer, although there may be basic rules to follow, such as what color combinations are appropriate. However, in the end, the graphic design output should have a visual appeal.</p>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/content/what-does-a-graphic-designer-do/">Graphic designers</a> create everything from logos to flyers for online campaigns and even social media content</p>
<h2>Why Graphic Design is Essential for Businesses</h2>
<p>As a business owner, in most cases, you need to know the basics of graphic design or employ someone to manage that for you for the following reasons:</p>
<h3>Communication</h3>
<p>The primary job of graphic design is communicating while retaining visual appeal and attention. On the other hand, businesses always look for ways to connect with customers. Thus, graphic designs fulfill this crucial business need.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>More than 65% of the world’s population identify as visual learners.  </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Graphic designs are excellent tools for communication and grabbing attention because of their visual components. The average person is drawn more to a picture than written words, and <a href="http://visualteaching.ning.com/m/blogpost?id=2629116%3ABlogPost%3A5431" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">more than 65% of the world’s population</a> identify as visual learners. So, with graphic design, you can then communicate more for less. You can grab attention, hold it, and effectively communicate.</p>
<h3>Graphic Design Helps Businesses Build a Brand</h3>
<p>We recognize most of the brands we have come to love today through their graphics. Take Apple, Nike, Google, Amazon, Starbucks, and the many other brands we use today. All these were made possible through well-orchestrated designs and marketing. Creating a logo or design that stands out is pivotal to creating a brand that stays in the heart of your customers.</p>
<h3>Excellent Design Improves Conversion</h3>
<p>The first impression a would-be customer will have of your business is created by your graphic design. Research by<a href="https://landing.adobe.com/en/na/products/creative-cloud/264699-state-of-content/index.html#Achieving-Deliciousness" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Adobe Blog</a> reveals that 59% of global users prefer appealing design. Applying this to your business means that more than half of your total clientele will prefer graphic designs that pique their interest. Moving from this point of interest to engaging fully with your business is easy. You are almost too late to the game if you are not currently using graphic design tools.</p>
<h3>Graphic Design Helps Businesses Compete Favorably</h3>
<p>There is an ongoing fierce competition for customers’ attention. This has existed since the time trade began. Businesses that have the advantage of being more financially buoyant throw more resources into their marketing campaigns. This significantly tilts the scale in their favor.</p>
<p>However, businesses can level the playing field using graphic design. With the various graphic design tools available, any business can easily put out marketing content. There are many<a href="https://sonary.com/content/8-easy-diy-graphic-design-projects/"> basic graphic design projects you</a> can take on, even if you know just the basics of design. In addition to discipline and commitment, this can close whatever gap your lack of resources may create for you in the competitive market. </p>
<h2>Graphic Design Essentials</h2>
<p>If you are just starting out in your graphic design journey, here are the graphic design basics you should pay attention to:</p>
<h3>Lines</h3>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Different-types-of-lines.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-17206" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Different-types-of-lines.jpg" alt="Different types of lines" width="668" height="334" /></a></p>
<p>A line is any shape connecting two points. Lines are used for several purposes. They can be used for emphasis, decoration, or to suggest a state of mind. For instance, a wavy line could communicate playfulness, while a heavy line can be used to emphasize a point or draw attention to any item.</p>
<p>While using lines, also consider factors like texture, style, and color. </p>
<h3>Size</h3>
<p>Size is another fundamental element in graphic design. Like color, size applies to every other design element. It can be used to highlight, diminish or balance the relevance assigned to any element.</p>
<p>Size is also important for creating variety and diversity. A great design has an appropriate combination of large and small elements. Understanding how to use size to enhance your design is hence important.</p>
<div data-google-ads="article-ads"></div>
<h3>Shapes</h3>
<p>A shape is a two-dimensional figure with boundaries. Shapes are either geometric or organic. Geometric shapes can be drawn with a ruler, while organic shapes can be drawn freehand. The latter is said to occur in nature, organically.</p>
<p>Shapes play a primary role in human interactions. This is because most humans think in terms of shapes. For instance, our understanding of street signs, visual displays and even visual art is aided because we recognize shapes.</p>
<p>To use shapes properly, you must learn how to integrate them into your design seamlessly. The best designs hide shapes in plain sight. However, these shapes still influence our interactions with the designs.</p>
<p> Take the time to study designs from some notable designs. You will notice the genius in how the shapes are placed. Mimic that in your own work, bearing in mind the purpose of your design. There’s no hard and fast rule to it.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>“Graphic designers who fail to understand the role color plays in design end up creating jarring designs.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Balance</h3>
<p>Balance is the appropriate distribution of design elements in a design. It is achieved when one element is not disproportionate. There is then the appropriate use of text, space, color, negative space, etc.</p>
<p>Imagine that there is a weight attached to every text, shape, box, or line you use. Balance means that no element’s weight is disproportionate to the others.</p>
<p>Achieving balance can be tricky, especially for beginner designers. This is because it requires intuition to know what works where. Your intuition in design is sharpened with the more experience you garner.</p>
<p>However, note that you can achieve balance in design by using either symmetrical or asymmetrical designs or employing the rule of the thirds. For the first, you divide your design into two. Each half will be similar or the same as the other. That is the easiest way to achieve balance.</p>
<p>In the asymmetrical pattern, you create two halves also. But they will not be the same. Rather, the weight is evenly distributed. This could be by putting design elements of equal weight on both sides of the half. For example, you could put similar information or use corresponding colors or lines on both sides.</p>
<p>The rule of the thirds is the most technical. It requires dividing your design into three segments, divided by three lines. You then place the image you are working with on the first line or close to it. That way, the other half gets balanced out.</p>
<h3>Visual Hierarchy</h3>
<p>Understanding balance aids in understanding visual hierarchy. While balance aims to even the weight of design elements, in visual hierarchy, you assign priority to them. Visual hierarchy is assigned to elements based on their level of importance.</p>
<p>For instance, topics are often placed at the top of the design and boldened. Stronger colors and bigger shapes can also be used to assign hierarchy. Again, this is intuitive and depends on what the design seeks to convey.</p>
<h3>Color</h3>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/A-cross-section-of-color-palette.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="alignnone wp-image-17207 size-full" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/A-cross-section-of-color-palette.jpg" alt="A cross-section of color palette" width="668" height="375" /></a></p>
<p>Color is the most prominent design element. And the most recognizable of the visual design basics. It is inescapable in any design. Additionally, it can be applied to other elements such as lines, shapes, and even space.</p>
<p>Graphic designers who fail to understand the role color plays in design end up creating jarring designs. This is because color dictates the mood of the design. You can convey a wide range of emotions through your color choice. More so, colors work in patterns. The wrong color combinations result in jarring designs.</p>
<p>For businesses, the design color can affect customers’ interaction with a design. Thus, it is important for designers to know the accepted color combinations, depictions, and theories.</p>
<h3>Space</h3>
<p>Space is much a tool in graphic design as other features like line and shape. It is the space around elements. The appropriate use of space conveys a sense of wholeness in the design.</p>
<p>Negative space is a sub-type of space and is often categorized as a sub-element under color. It refers to areas in the design without any element. Thus, there’ll be no text, shape, or design in a negative space. Think the background space around and between the subject of an image.</p>
<p>Excellent graphic designers deliberately work with negative space to highlight the most important bits in the design. In fact, negative space can even form its own shape.</p>
<h2>Graphic Design Starter Pack</h2>
<p>Excited to get fully into graphic design 101? Ensure you have the following:</p>
<h3>A Computer</h3>
<p>In this heavily digitalized world, having a computer is handy when getting into graphic design. It is up to you to decide what computer model to purchase. It might be helpful to note the following:</p>
<ul>
	<li>A computer with Random Access Memory (RAM) of 4 Gigabyte or above is recommended.</li>
	<li>The Hard disk capacity should be at least 128 Gigabytes.</li>
	<li>The Computer’s Operating System should support 32-bit processors.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Software/Applications</h3>
<p>Three Graphic design software you should be looking to get include:</p>
<h4>Adobe</h4>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/adobe/adobe+graphic-design/">Adobe</a> is the most popular design software out there. The reason for this is not far-fetched: the software is the perfect design companion for beginners. Eventually, when you transition to an experienced designer, you can also use Adobe’s advanced features.</p>
<h4>Upwork</h4>
<p>This is your go-to app for finding graphic designers. It is straightforward to use. You can advertise your graphic design needs and freelancers can reply and bid for your jobs.<a href="https://sonary.com/b/upwork-inc/upwork+graphic-design/"> Upwork</a> is likewise easy to use and affordable.</p>
<h4>Canva</h4>
<p>This is another easy-to-use offering to get started with your logo design 101 endeavors.<a href="https://sonary.com/b/canva/canva+graphic-design/"> Canva</a> has video and photo functionalities. You can create any graphic design project, edit existing ones and even merge old ones using Canva. One other thing: Canva has a free version.</p>
<h4>A Sketch Pad</h4>
<p>A sketch pad might be your primary design tool. You can start your design on the sketch pad and then finish off on your computer later on. This is an essential and handy tool for when the spur of creativity hits you.</p>
<h4>Other Designers</h4>
<p>They are not tools per se; however, collaboration with other designers is sometimes inescapable. First, you need other designers to critique your work. Self-assessment can only do so much. You might miss errors when you self-edit.</p>
<p>Furthermore, there may be certain design projects that demand collaboration. It is important to have people who you can readily reach out to make that happen.</p>
<h2>Takeaway</h2>
<p>As long as visuals appeal to people, graphic design will remain relevant. Whatever field you're in, knowing how to design a graphic project automatically boosts your value. If you don't know how to design, you'll be severely hampered as a business owner or marketing executive.</p>
<p>The great news is that whatever knowledge gap you have now can be easily filled if you commit to learning. Here's a great place to start, learning the fundamentals of graphic design. If you want to become even more prolific with design, you can take a stroll through our recommended <a href="https://sonary.com/graphic-design/">graphic design solutions</a>. There will surely be something for your graphic design tool kit!</p>

7 Fundamentals of Graphic Design You Should Know

<p>The whole digital world runs on graphic design. Fortunately, anyone interested in designing their work is in luck. It’s never been easier to get started, largely thanks to:</p>
<ol>
	<li> The affordability of many graphic design tools</li>
	<li> The features for beginners that tools have</li>
	<li> AI prompts to speed up the design process</li>
</ol>
<p> Most <a href="https://sonary.com/graphic-design/">professional graphic design tools</a> come at a cost. In some cases, they cost teams hundreds of dollars per user. However, there are also free options and extremely affordable options. In this article, we are looking at the $25 or less per month range. </p>
<hr />
<h3>Top Graphic Design Tools</h3>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/canva/canva+graphic-design/">Canva</a>: <span style="color: #339966;"><strong>1000+ professional templates</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/fiverr/fiverr+graphic-design/">Fiverr</a>: <span style="color: #339966;"><strong>Wide range of design services</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/vecteezy/vecteezy+graphic-design/">Vecteezy</a>: <span style="color: #339966;"><strong>Web-based SVG editing software</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="https://pixlr.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pixlr</a>: <span style="color: #339966;"><strong>Free or low-cost graphic design tool</strong></span></p>
<hr />
<h2>What are the Top Affordable Graphic Design Tools?</h2>
<p>Just because certain tools don’t have a high price tag, it doesn’t mean they don’t offer a professional result. A <a href="https://sonary.com/graphic-design/">great graphic design tool</a> can be cheap without sacrificing important features. Normally, the most expensive graphic design tools are the most versatile. They offer tons of features and consistently high quality for professional use. This can make them difficult for beginners.</p>
<p> Good, affordable graphic design tools still offer:</p>
<ul>
	<li>Ease of use</li>
	<li>A well-rounded set of features</li>
	<li> Templates and other resources</li>
	<li> Customization</li>
	<li> Standard compatibility options (JPG, PNG, SVG, PDF)</li>
	<li>Collaboration on the cloud</li>
	<li>Stable performance</li>
</ul>
<p>Apart from this, affordable graphic design tools are either just offered at a good price, or come with a fair, sliding pricing structure.</p>
<h2>1. Canva</h2>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/canva/canva+graphic-design/">Canva</a> is an extremely easy-to-use and multi-purpose graphic design platform. Based on simple drag-and-drop functionality, it offers an extensive list of features free of charge. It’s scalable, making it easy to upgrade your subscription if your graphic design needs to grow. More importantly, it comes with intuitive features for scheduling and publishing.</p>
<h3>Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Over 400,000 free templates</li>
	<li>      Easy on-the-go collaboration</li>
	<li>      Mobile optimized </li>
	<li>      75 million accessible files</li>
	<li>      Powerful AI image generator</li>
</ul>
<h3> Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Canva is best for amateur graphic designers. It’s also a great tool for anyone without graphic design skills who needs to make professional:</p>
<ul>
	<li>      <a href="https://sonary.com/content/how-to-make-a-professional-presentation-on-canva/">Presentations</a></li>
	<li>      Images</li>
	<li>      Ads</li>
	<li>      Documents</li>
	<li>      Invitations</li>
	<li>      Resumes</li>
	<li>      Posters</li>
	<li>      Other</li>
</ul>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options </h3>
<ul>
	<li>      <strong>Free:</strong> Includes all design features with limitations on use. Adequate for individuals and recreational use.</li>
	<li>  <strong>    Pro ($119.99/year):</strong> Unlocks premium content. You get more powerful design tools and AI features. Meant for professionals.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Teams ($149.99/year):</strong> Comes with advanced features with a focus on collaboration. Meant for professional teams.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Enterprise (Call for quote):</strong> A customizable plan for large organizations with at least 100 users.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/canva-1.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27208" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/canva-1.webp" alt="Canva graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>2. Vecteezy</h2>
<p><a href="https://sonary.com/b/vecteezy/vecteezy+graphic-design/">Vecteezy</a> is a vector editing software. Its standout feature is the collection of high-quality vector graphics. It’s also an online marketplace where designers sell their art with licensing agreements.</p>
<h3>Key Features </h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Customize existing vector designs</li>
	<li>      Many image category choices</li>
	<li>      Unlimited instant downloads</li>
	<li>      Versatile SVG customization </li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Vecteezy is good for informal designs. It is not a very advanced tool and is thus not great for professional users. But it’s particularly easy to use and create original designs with.</p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<ul>
	<li><strong>      Free:</strong> Includes thousands of free resources to get started with.</li>
	<li> <strong>     Pro ($14 per/month):</strong> Includes millions more resources, unlimited downloads, full access, and full commercial rights.</li>
</ul>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27215" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/vecteezy-logo-white-on-orange-5e9222db.webp" alt="" /></p>
<h2>3. Lucidpress</h2>
<p>Lucidpress is a brand design management software. It offers a versatile range of design features. But it stands out for its web-to-print designs and features. With its focus on business branding design, Lucidpress is collaborative, easy to use, and business-centric. Despite that, it remains one of the least expensive options for this purpose.</p>
<h3>Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Easy to access cloud storage</li>
	<li>      Online (cloud) project management features</li>
	<li>      Built-in social sharing features</li>
	<li>      Print &amp; ship options</li>
	<li>      Extensive design library (paid versions)</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Lucidpress was designed specifically for in-house teams. It can be used by any small business or even by freelancers. However, its focus on collaboration and distribution makes it more useful in a team setting. </p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      <strong>Free:</strong> Includes all design features but only the basic template library. Restrictions on active projects.</li>
	<li>     <strong> Pro ($15/month):</strong> Free design imports, smart fields, email, and web publishing.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Team ($15/month):</strong> Admin and user roles, advanced features, automation.</li>
	<li> <strong>     Enterprise (get a quote):</strong> An advanced and fully customizable plan for large organizations.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/lucidpress.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27203" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/lucidpress.webp" alt="Lucidpress graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>4. Pixlr</h2>
<p>Pixlr is a free or low-cost graphic design tool that is generally easy to use and reliable. Over time, customers report big changes in the value proposition that the tool offers. It used to be free to export unlimited files, among other features. Now, Pixlr offers up-to-date features including a generative AI assistant.</p>
<h3>Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Automatic grid creator</li>
	<li>      AI generation and editing</li>
	<li>      Simple sliding scale editing interfaces</li>
	<li>      Supports layering</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Pixlr is best for marketing creative design managers and professionals. They can benefit best from Pixlr’s artificial intelligence and collaborative features.</p>
<p>Beyond them, Pixlr can be useful to graphic designers of widely varying skill levels. It offers a moderate range of features. The features are easy to navigate through and become more proficient with. </p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options </h3>
<ul>
	<li><strong>      Plus ($1.99/month):</strong> All the basics without ads, but with limited monthly usage credits.</li>
	<li>    <strong>  Premium ($7.99/month):</strong> A much higher monthly credit limit, AI tools, and their library of fonts, animations, and templates.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Team ($12.99/month):</strong> 5 seats, unlimited saves, and many more credits.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/pixlr.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27210" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/pixlr.webp" alt="Pixlr graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>5. Creatopy</h2>
<p>Creatopy is a visual production platform designed for creating custom ads. Professionals, even with less experience, can use it to effectively create new banners and ads from scratch. You can use their extensive library of templates and other features to choose from.  </p>
<h3>Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Completely web-based tool</li>
	<li>      Comes with the relevant formats and sizes</li>
	<li>      Extensive template library</li>
	<li>      Customize motion</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p> Creatopy is meant for in-house marketing teams. Anyone who has experience making social media ads will appreciate it. Professionals of varying experience levels can efficiently use it.</p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      <strong>Basic ($32/month):</strong> Basic ad design and downloads in various formats. Animation and AI tools are included.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Pro ($45/month):</strong> Better customer support and team templates. Far more AI credits and unlocks integration with Shopify.</li>
	<li>      <strong>Plus ($165/month):</strong> Advanced features, roles and permissions, and user groups. </li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/creatopy.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27211" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/creatopy.webp" alt="Creatopy graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>6. Insight</h2>
<p>Insight is a full graphic design solution. It offers photo editing, vector illustration, layout design, and more. All of this comes as a part of one package. While more expensive than the alternatives on this list, you pay for a one-time lifetime license.</p>
<h3> Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Full suite of professional-level features</li>
	<li>      Live chat, phone, and email support for any inquiries</li>
	<li>      Highly customizable interfaces</li>
	<li>      Serves every business-level graphic design purpose</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Insight is good for graphic design teams and individual professionals. It is not as beginner-friendly as the other options on this list and comes with limited tutorials. But it can serve those making professional graphics of all kinds.</p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<p>All options come with the same design features. This is a one-time purchase that you can consider after a free 15-day trial.</p>
<ul>
	<li>    <strong>One user ($119.99)</strong></li>
	<li><strong>    Business ($458.99)</strong></li>
	<li><strong>    Enterprise ($656.99)</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/insight.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27212" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/insight.webp" alt="Insight graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>7. Adobe Illustrator</h2>
<p>Not as low-cost as the other options, but affordable enough on its own, Adobe Illustrator is a professional-grade software.</p>
<h3>Key Features</h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Regular thorough software updates</li>
	<li>      Vector brush</li>
	<li>      Integrates with other Adobe tools</li>
	<li>      Unparalleled suite of design features</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Adobe Illustrator is for professional graphic designers in many fields. It can be used to make anything from ads to novel/game/movie graphics. It is not beginner-friendly, but in experienced hands has unlimited potential.</p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<p>Adobe Illustrator is a part of the Adobe Creative Cloud.</p>
<p>As a standalone tool, it costs <strong>$22.99/month.</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/adobe.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27213" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/adobe.webp" alt="Adobe graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>8. Gravit Designer</h2>
<p>Gravit Designer is an HTML-based graphic design application. Users can create a wide range of work with the app. But it stands out when it comes to animations and presentations. While not an intuitive graphic design tool, Gravit Designer is thorough. It comes with a full suite of features to make any idea possible. </p>
<h3>Key Features </h3>
<ul>
	<li>      Auto-layouts</li>
	<li>      Export in multiple file formats</li>
	<li>      A full suite of regular design tools</li>
	<li>      SVG editing</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is it Best For?</h3>
<p>Gravit Designer is best for product designers, animators, or others who need thorough tools. It can also be used for a wider range of less complex designs. However, it is not a beginner-friendly tool. It <a href="https://sonary.com/content/how-to-make-a-professional-presentation-on-canva/">takes time and independent study</a> to learn it, as it lacks tutorials or a guide.</p>
<h3>Pricing &amp; Trial Options</h3>
<p>Gravit Designer has one base plan that starts at<strong> $48.79.</strong> You can take a free trial before deciding whether to purchase it.</p>
<p><a href="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/gravit.webp"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-27205" src="https://admin-wp-production.sonary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/gravit.webp" alt="Gravit graphic design tool" /></a></p>
<h2>Finding the Right Tool for You</h2>
<p>Each of the tools we’ve gone over has one key benefit: affordability. There are many graphic design tools to choose from, including affordable options with unique value. You can empower yourself or your team to provide excellent design at a low cost. For some of the slightly pricier options, you can still try a free trial to see if it’s good for you. Read some of our comparisons between <a href="https://sonary.com/graphic-design/">popular graphic design tools</a> to find out more. You can then also see some demos to weigh your graphic design needs with your budget constraints.</p>
<h2>FAQ</h2>
<p><strong>Q: What software do graphic designers use?</strong></p>
<p><strong>A</strong>: Professional graphic designers use programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Adobe offers a few standalone products, including one we’ve covered here.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What free software is best for graphic design?</strong></p>
<p><strong>A:</strong> Many tools like Canva offer excellent functionality for free. Lucidpress and Vecteezy also offer a lot of value, even in their free versions.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What is the best graphic design Software for Mac?</strong></p>
<p><strong>A:</strong> Adobe software works just as well on Mac as it does on other OS. In addition, all of the options we’ve covered are available to Mac users.</p>

Brandi Marcene