It’s no secret that all great brands, small or large, just starting or running the game, need an internet presence. This can be websites, social media, paid ads, and more. What all of these platforms have in common is they need to feature some type of eye-catching content or graphic.
Graphic designers- this is where you come in. It might seem impossible to bring your ideas to life without expensive software, the correct tools for graphic designers, or training for someone just starting out in this profession. Likewise, as a small business, you might be in charge of all designing yourself, which can feel overwhelming.
Luckily (you found this blog) and there is a wide variety of free software, tutorials, templates, and other tools for graphic designers for free online. Read through this list for some inspiration on how to create the designs you’ve been dreaming about without having to break the bank.
1. Canva
One of the most popular and easily accessible design tools is Canva. Canva is a free, browser-based graphic design software for making virtually anything. Templates range from social media, posters, resumes, presentations – the list goes on. Within Canva there are hundreds of fonts, stock photos, graphics, videos, and music to build your creations with.
2. Gimp
Gimp is a photo editing and manipulation software somewhat similar to Photoshop. It is mainly used for retouching photos, simple painting, image format converters, and more. If you need to transform images quickly and simply, this is the way to go.
3. Adobe Express
Adobe Express is a free, limited version of Adobe Illustrator. It features many free templates and is compatible with other Adobe products. Express is a good place to start to get acclimated with adobe software and begin your design process.
4. DesignWizard
DesignWizard, much like Canva is a free graphic design software to create unique content in minutes. It features a plethora of free backgrounds, images, graphics, fonts, and more.
5. Unsplash
Unsplash is your free stock photo wonderland. The website has over 3 million photos for use powered by a community of photographers. This is a great resource for using professional images to elevate your designs.
6. Pexels
Pexels, like Unsplash, is a free stock photography site for high-quality and licensed images. The photos are tagged and easily searchable so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
7. IMovie / Windows Video Editor
IMovie and Windows Video Editor are free for every Mac and Windows user. This is a great place to learn basic video editing skills and make professional short clips. They offer transitions, effects, audio, and video import, splitting clips, and more.
8. YouTube
Last but definitely not least – is YouTube. YouTube is the go-to resource for learning how to work new programs, new design methods, and virtually anything you want to know more about. Once you get more familiar with design programs and want to elevate your skills, go spend some time there!