Cheap or Free Programs for Designers

Topaz Torres Avatar

 

Alrighty, so I know Adobe is EXPENSIVE. It’s useful, but damn expensive. No one wants to shell out a monthly fee and NO ONE wants to pay a full 1k for any program. NO no no nope!! Can’t do it.

Here are some free options, you might not be able to get away with using these at some schools or jobs, but on your own or working freelance you can use whatever programs you want!

  1. Canva – I have mentioned this guy in a previous post. It’s free, easy, and has a lot of templates to choose from. You can make posters, social assets, and digital advertisements in minutes without a lot of extending trial and error of typographical heirarchy, color palettes, imagery, etc. It is all there. You can also choose the paid version and purchase stock in the program of course, but there are completely free choices that you can manipulate to create awesome things.
  2. Vectr – Make vector graphics and more in Vectr! This program works pretty nicely, and if you aren’t already destroyed by Adobe’s controls, this is very intuitive. You can also share your work in REAL TIME so when a client is breathing down your back, you can show them where you’re at. They also have tutorials on their site available to learn how to use the program quick and easy!
  3. Pixlr – Pixlr lets you choose – do you want to be more in control? or do you want an easier templated design to make very quickly? You can do both right in your browser!
  4. InvisionAPP – Are you wanting to explore with making apps? This is a free option that is amazing! You can create your pages, set up transitions and animations, and experience your design!
  5. GravitDesigner – Download or use this vector creating program for free! I do especially like the “infinite canvas” option. The program is smooth, and seems to have a lot more readily available options in comparison to Vectr.

 

Okay so I labeled this as Free and Cheap programs but I tried to basically stick to mostly free cause I mean……….free. Please check out all of these programs and tell me what you think!

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