UC Digital Art: Illustrating Merch with Procreate

Imagine your artwork on a t-shirt or phone case! In this class, students will design bold digital illustrations and learn how artists turn their ideas into printable merchandise.

Have you ever imagined your artwork on a t-shirt, bag, poster, phone case, or other giftable item?

Let’s illustrate your own collection of custom merchandise! We’ll explore how artists turn their ideas into designs that look great on products, learning how to plan artwork that is bold, clear, and ready to print.

Each new project will guide students through the creative process step by step. We’ll begin with brainstorming ideas, move into concept sketching, and then refine those ideas into polished digital illustrations.

Along the way, students will explore techniques such as creating strong linework, developing effective color palettes, designing appealing characters and graphics, and arranging elements so their artwork can stand out on real products. 

Students will learn how their designs could be turned into real products they can purchase and have printed on demand. The instructor will demonstrate how artists prepare their digital files for uploading and printing through third-party production companies like Printful. By the end of the class, everyone will have a digital collection of their own printable illustrations, to use in any way they choose. 

This class is for artists ages 12+, and is appropriate for beginner and intermediate level digital artists. Those who register should have a strong interest in drawing and digital art, but they do not need to be highly experienced. Lessons will prompt fun design projects and experimental techniques, and the instructor will support students at their level of understanding digital tools. Class time will pass by quickly! Students should be engaged in their projects, and able to maintain a focused environment during work time. 

MONTHLY TOPIC BREAKDOWN:

Week 1-3: Illustrating Graphic T-shirts and Tote Bags

Week 4-6: Illustrating Mugs and Phone Cases 

Week 7-9: Illustrating Posters

Week 10-12: Illustrating for Stickers and Embroidered Patches 

SKILLS TAUGHT IN THIS CLASS:

-How to use Procreate to design eye-catching illustrations created specifically for merchandise

-How to brainstorm, sketch, and refine illustration work using different tools in the app

-How to prepare artwork files for potential printing through third-party merchandise companies 

SUPPLY LIST:

- iPad (we have a few if you need to borrow one during class time)

- Apple Pencil (we have a few if you need to borrow one during class time)

- Procreate app (procreate.com). ***you just need Procreate, NOT ProcreateDreams. Procreate is only available for Apple products. 

THERE WILL BE NO CLASSES THE WEEK OF THANKSGIVING!!!!

LOCATION IN UTAH COUNTY:

Highland Community Center

5378 W 10400 N St., Highland, UT 84003

Search for "Highland Community Center" for easiest directions.

INSTRUCTOR:
This class is taught by Addie Vawdrey. Learn more about our instructors at https://www.visualartinstitute.org/art-faculty

DROP-INS:

This class IS open for drop-in students. Students can register online for a specific date or purchase a Flex Pass. Everyone is responsible for bringing their supplies for the class.

REFUND POLICY:

We are only able to offer refunds up to 2 weeks before the start of class. We do not offer refunds or credits or make-up classes to students who miss class.

TRANSFER POLICY:

We may be able to transfer you to a different class depending on space availability.

CLASS CANCELLATION:

We find that students learn better in larger groups. If we feel the number of registrations is too low to promote a good learning environment, we may cancel the class. In the event we cancel a class, we will reach out to you as soon as possible.

TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:

We try to make our classes as accessible to everyone as possible. We are able to offer a limited number of tuition assistance scholarships each term. You can complete an application on our website or call our office for assistance applying. Applications are available in Spanish and English.

MULTI-CLASS DISCOUNT:

When you register for more than one class, you can receive a discount up to 10% per class! You must call and register through the front office for this discount.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY & ACCOMMODATIONS:

Some courses may involve tasks or activities that may be difficult for individuals with limited strength, difficulty bending over, and sitting or standing for long periods of time. We are happy to work with students to find solutions to make their experience positive and doable. For example, wheel throwing takes arm strength and bending over the wheel. Students may work on hand-building projects instead of throwing. Please reach out to our office to discuss your needs.

DIFFICULTY REGISTERING?

Please call our main office for assistance! 801.474.3796 or email us at [email protected]