If you’re a graphic designer, you probably use Adobe Illustrator to create your work. But do you know the best way to use it?

Adobe Illustrator can be used with both a mouse or a stylus. Mouse users will be able to use Illustrator without any issues, but stylus users will likely have a better experience using Illustrator.

There are many reasons why people choose to use a mouse instead of a pen or pencil. Sometimes it’s because they’re just not comfortable using a pen, or because they want to be able to draw on the go without having to carry around their entire art kit.

Will Adobe Illustrator Work with a Mouse?

Adobe Illustrator has been around for over 30 years and it has grown to be one of the most popular design tools today. The reason for this is because it has the tools to help you create any type of graphic and it’s easy to learn how to use, no matter which device you’re using.

When you’re working in Illustrator, there are two main types of tools:

• Vector
• Pixel

The vector tools allow you to draw shapes and lines in a vector format that is scalable without any loss of quality— meaning that these shapes will always look good no matter what they’re drawn with. So it is still possible to create designs without a stylus in Adobe Illustrator.

Not everyone has access to or wants to use a smart pen or stylus. Either they prefer a mouse, or their screen isn’t touch capable. The first thing you’ll want to do when using Illustrator with a mouse is find out which tool set works best for you.

Why You Should Use a Mouse with Adobe Illustrator

Digital art is a popular creative field in today’s digital age. But what are the advantages of using a mouse over a pen? There are many reasons why a mouse will be helpful in Adobe Illustrator.

Some include:

• Control: A mouse is a great tool for digital art because it provides the artist with more control over the art. It is more precise, unlike a pen which can be difficult to control because it’s easy to make accidental motions. Most people are also more used to using a mouse than a touchscreen device.
• Access: A mouse also gives the user greater flexibility in terms of what they can do with it. Not every PC has a touchscreen which can limit your options, but every PC has an input for a mouse, meaning you can design on virtually any PC.
• Cost: a mouse is much more affordable than an expensive pen and paper set up for digital art. Odds are, your PC came with a mouse or trackpad, and buying one is often much cheaper than a smart pen.

The mouse has been the primary input device for designers for decades and it’s still a preferred input device for digital art today, with some good reasons, too! Amazing designs have been made with a mouse before touchscreen devices were even thought of, and will continue long in the future.

More Precise Linework

A mouse can be used to draw shapes and lines that are smooth and have precise edges. The shape will not change when you erase it or move it. And you can use the eraser to clean up mistakes with ease.

This is not the case with pens, which require more time and effort to do these things. Pens also tend to smudge and blur your work, making it harder for you to see what you’re doing, whereas this isn’t an issue with a mouse.

Less Practice Required

Another advantage of using a mouse over a pen is that it’s easier for people who don’t have much drawing experience to use one because they don’t need much precision or control in order to create something beautiful or functional on the screen. With pens, however, you need more practice before your drawings look good on paper.

Why You Should Use a Pen with Adobe Illustrator

You can use Adobe Illustrator with a mouse. But you’ll probably get better results if you use a stylus instead. Here’s why.

Less Mistakes

It’s just too easy to make mistakes when drawing with a mouse. The precision of your movements is limited by the size of the cursor and its proximity to the edge of the screen. This makes it hard to draw complex shapes or lines that are only slightly curved.

It also makes it harder to avoid over-drawing or accidentally overlapping things while you’re working on a drawing.

More Natural Feel

Using a pen instead is more natural and intuitive because it allows you to draw in the same way that you would if you were using pencils or markers on paper—thus eliminating many of these problems.

Comfortable

Using Adobe Illustrator with a pen is also more comfortable because pens are smaller than mice, so your hand doesn’t have to move as far in order for it to reach all parts of the screen at once.

If you want to avoid the hassle of choosing between mouse and pen entirely, you could also go with an online service to create graphics and designs for you easily.

Concluding Thoughts

Digital art is all about the creativity of the artist, and with a mouse you have more options when it comes to the size and shape of the brush or cursor. A mouse can also be used for different purposes such as selecting text or objects on your computer screen. It’s not just about drawing pictures with a pen – it’s about being able to do all kinds of things at once.

So to summarize, It is possible to use Adobe Illustrator with a mouse. You can use a mouse to create amazing designs and graphics, but you can find just as many benefits if you have a smart pen or stylus.

The choice is up to you, and whether you use a mouse or not, the sky’s the limit for the kinds of designs you can make in Adobe Illustrator.

When posting anything online, it’s natural to look for the best ways to protect your work from being stolen or used without your consent. You may think that adding a watermark to your images automatically copyrights the document, but is this really the case?

As a general rule, a watermark is not a form of copyright but rather a symbol that the art or work belongs to someone and is, in fact, copyrighted. This means that art or created documents with or without a watermark may be copyrighted.

If you are on the fence about using a watermark but want to make sure your work is protected, don’t fret. Below, you’ll find a quick breakdown of what a watermark does in terms of copyright and how to best protect your work once it’s published online.

Are Watermarked Images Copyrighted?

Chances are you’ve seen more than a few watermarks in your lifetime. Maybe more than you realize. A watermark is a popular way for designers and photographers to ensure that their work isn’t being copied and used without their knowledge or consent. But does a watermark really hold that much power?

For the most part, a watermark simply acts as an indicator that the image or document belongs to a specific individual. However, adding a watermark doesn’t actually copyright an image.

In the United States, copyright law prohibits any unauthorized use or copying of an original, created work. This includes but is not limited to:

• Graphic art
• Photographs
• Maps
• Architectural plans
• Prints
• Diagrams
• Sculptures
• Logos
• Models

This means that copyright exists from the moment a photo is taken or a design is created and has nothing to do with the addition of a watermark.

Do Watermarks Actually Provide Copyright Protection?

The prevention of image theft is among the main reasons for using a watermark—especially for those under the impression that watermarks provide copyright protection.

While this is somewhat helpful, watermarks are now easier to get around thanks to technological advancements. Plus, the image is protected without it. Instead, what a watermark does is act as a reminder that the image is copyrighted and not to be used without permission.

Remember, an image without a watermark is just as protected by copyright as one with a watermark. And anyone taking the image either isn’t aware of copyright law or is and may go through the pains of removing the watermark and using the photo anyway.

Really, the only way to ensure that your photos won’t be copied or stolen is to never post them online in the first place.

Should You Use a Copyright Notice?

Just like a watermark, posting a copyright notice isn’t a requirement for your image or design to be copyrighted. However, it may add another layer of protection.

Though common knowledge to some, not everyone is aware of copyright laws. Placing a copyright notice on your website or work lets people know that it is copyrighted and you intend to enforce it. This may help deter people from infringing on your copyright and educate those who don’t know.

A copyright notice can increase the power of your watermark. If a notice is posted and someone steals the image and removes the watermark, they may be liable for greater damages.

What to Include In a Copyright Notice

When posting a copyright notice, there is no need to register your work with the Copyright Office. This is something that everyone can do, but there are some elements you’ll want to make sure to include.

First, you’ll want to include the copyright symbol (the encircled letter C) or the word “Copyright” in the notice. You’ll also need to include the year of publication and the name of the owner of the work.

For example, your copyright notice could look like this: Copyright 2022 John Doe or © 2022 John Doe.

Other Ways to Protect Images Online

On top of using a watermark and copyright notice, you can even add a notice to the metadata of the photos in programs like Lightroom.

You may also want to consider using low-resolution photos on your website or using a plugin to disable the right-click feature. If you feel your images or designs are being used without your knowledge, try using a service like Pixsy or Copytrack to search for unauthorized use of your images.

Although none of these options are foolproof, they give your images additional layers of protection on top of their inherent copyright protection.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this article gave you a better understanding of copyright protection and watermarks. Protecting work online isn’t always easy. Knowing the various layers of safeguarding your work can keep your images from being used without your consent and save you money in the long run.

Adobe Illustrator is pricey, so some have elected to replace their subscription to the program with a subscription to the lower-priced, web-based Adobe XD. If you do professional graphic design, you know how important it is to work with the correct program. If you’re considering switching, you may be wondering if Adobe XD can really replace Illustrator.

You can replace Adobe Illustrator with Adobe XD, but it’s only recommended if you do web development work or are a beginner in the graphic design world. Adobe XD is great for prototyping, but does not offer nearly as many drawing and design tools as Illustrator.

Below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how Adobe XD compares to Adobe Illustrator. Keep reading before you make the switch!

Can Adobe XD Replace Illustrator?

While Adobe Illustrator is specifically meant for graphic design, Adobe XD is more geared toward web design and prototyping. While it doesn’t offer all the advanced drawing tools that Illustrator does, you can still use Adobe XD for simple icon or graphic creation.

Whether or not XD can completely replace Illustrator will depend on your level of experience and preferences when it comes to graphic design. It’s much simpler than Illustrator, so it’s easier for beginners. However, with this simplicity comes fewer features. 

Generally, Adobe XD is sufficient for creating simple icons and other designs. Illustrator, on the other hand, lets you create all of the following types of designs and more:

• Logos
• Icons
• Sketches
• Typography

If you’re looking for a program that will allow you to create the best web design elements, or if you’re a beginner in the graphic design world, Adobe XD is an excellent, and more affordable, alternative to Illustrator. However, if you’re an experienced or professional graphic designer, you’ll probably enjoy working in Adobe Illustrator more than Adobe XD.

What Is Adobe XD?

Adobe XD is most efficient for web and application design purposes. While Adobe Illustrator is mainly geared toward graphic designers who want to create digital drawings, icons, and other designs, Adobe XD is geared toward businesses who want to design complex layouts and layout components.

XD’s controls are very similar to those of other Adobe software, such as Illustrator and Photoshop. So, if you’re familiar with one Adobe program, you shouldn’t have much trouble getting comfortable with this one.

This vector-based UX/UI tool gives you access to advanced editing tools that allow you to create things like:

• Prototypes
• Mockups
• Animations
• Digital designs

Now, let’s see the features of this program.

Features of Adobe XD

Because Adobe XD is specifically made for web designers, you won’t find as many drawing tools as you will on Illustrator.

Some of the drawing features you will find include:

• Auto-trace
• Masking
• Resizing
• Paint support

What are the advantages of using this program as opposed to Adobe Illustrator? Keep reading to find out.

Advantages of Using Adobe XD

One of the biggest advantages of using Adobe XD over Adobe Illustrator is the price difference. While Adobe Illustrator charges a high monthly fee right off the bat, Adobe XD offers both free and paid software versions. Even if you do choose the full paid version, it’s available for a third of the cost of Illustrator and offers a seven-day free trial.

It’s very easy to use, making it popular among budding digital designers. But, while it is very simple to use, it’s not as efficient as programs like Illustrator.

Overall, it’s best to go with Adobe XD over Adobe Illustrator if you’ll be building or updating web designs often.

Best Uses for Adobe XD

As mentioned above, the best uses for Adobe XD typically include web design and simple graphic design.

As far as web design goes, you can use the program to create the following components:

• Wireframes
• Prototypes
• Screen designs

Most of the designs you create with Adobe XD will be geared towards improving user experience. You can configure whole web layouts or any components on them much more easily than with Illustrator.

Adobe XD is a web-based application, which makes sharing designs among team members easy. Just send the link, then the viewer can leave their feedback through an in-browser comment window.

Designs are easy to preview, then export when you’re ready. You can even import designs created in Illustrator to Adobe XD, then adjust them as necessary for your web design purposes. Overall, XD is a better program for teams and businesses.

Pro Tip: Depending on the type of projects you are working on, consider using a mockup generator for even easier screen designs and mockups.

What Is Adobe Illustrator?

Adobe Illustrator is a popular vector graphics editing and designing tool. Between its user-friendly interface and advanced editing features, it’s no surprise that Illustrator is one of the most popular applications for graphic designers.

Unlike Adobe XD, Illustrator is generally not the best program for web and application designers. It doesn’t have any prototyping tools, but it does help designers create the following types of graphics for both web and mobile use:

• Icons
• Graphics
• Packaging
• Illustrations

If you’re looking for a program that will help you create vector or raster graphics of any size, and for any application, Illustrator is probably the better choice. It focuses heavily on precision and complicated vector paths, so if you really care about the fine details, go with Adobe Illustrator.

Best Uses for Adobe Illustrator

People of all backgrounds love using Adobe Illustrator. While it’s great for personal use, it’s also a very popular program in the professional world.

People in the following industries may use Illustrator for their graphic design work:

• Advertising
• Photography
• Print media
• Web development
• Video game design

Illustrator is one of the world’s most popular graphic design programs, with lots of freehand drawing tools and editing capabilities. Whether for personal or professional use, graphic designers from all walks of life enjoy working in Adobe Illustrator to create logos, social media content, and even magazine covers.

Final Thoughts

Whether or not you should replace your monthly Illustrator subscription with a subscription to the web-based Adobe XD will depend almost entirely on the purposes you’re using the program for and your experience level.

If you currently use Illustrator to create web design elements or simple logo designs, you’ll probably enjoy replacing it with Adobe XD. Not only is it available for a lower cost, but it also makes collaborating with team members much easier.

However, sticking with your current program is probably the best choice if you mainly use Illustrator for more complex or professional graphic design not related to web development.

Many people use watermarks to defend their photos, especially when posting them on the internet. If you have a precious image or photo, it can be scary to show it to the world. You might wonder – are photos with watermarks easy to be copied? Is it simple for someone to steal your work?

Although it doesn’t take much effort to copy a photo with a watermark, it takes a substantial amount of work to remove the watermark. It’s simple to grab the image, but it won’t be of any use to the thief unless they can find a way to remove the watermark from the photo.

If you’re interested in learning more about photos with watermarks, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about why it’s tricky to copy watermarked images, the security of the process, and additional protective measures for photos. The more you know, the better the safety measures you can take with your images.

Why Is It Tricky to Copy Watermarked Photos?

It might seem easy for your image to be stolen, even with a watermark over the top. However, watermarks make it much trickier for a thief to nab your photo and make it their own. Why is that? Can’t they photoshop your watermark out of the image without much trouble?

Watermarks make it tricky to copy photos because they:

• Declare to the world that the image belongs to you
• Make photoshop impossible without altering the original image
• Provide a form of legal protection if trademarked

Your images are certainly more safe with a watermark.

If you’re interested in posting your photo online but want to be safe, place a watermark over the top. Still, it can be scary to take this step. Is it secure to watermark? How safe is this process for your work?

How Secure is Watermarking?

Watermarking is one of the most popular ways to provide a defense for your image on the internet. It’s easy to put on top of a photo and provides a way for an individual or company to promote themselves when others see their work. However, in the modern world, is it still the most secure method for your photos?

Here are a few factors that can make a watermark secure:

• Visibility: The darker the watermark over an image, the safer it is. A barely-visible watermark won’t do much good in the defense department for your work.
• Position: It’s critical to place the watermark across a large section of the image, from one corner to the next. Anything less will make it simple for someone to edit the watermark off the image and steal it from you.

Keep these in mind when adding a watermark to a photo.

Watermarking is effective, but some items can make it less safe for your image. If you want to try something else, there are other ways to add protective layers to your photo online.

Additional Protective Measures for Photos

A watermark can be an excellent way to protect an image. However, there are additional protective measures that work as defenses for the photo online. These can be practical alternatives instead of a watermark.

Here are a few additional protective measures for photos:

• Advanced barcoding: A barcode acts as a digital footprint for your work.
• Avoid sharing high resolution files: Don’t give thieves easy access to high-resolution files. They can do anything with these.
• Add copyright to metadata: Place your copyright in the metadata to provide legal proof of ownership.

These are ideal if you don’t want to use a watermark.

If you can’t find a method that will keep your image safe, don’t post it anywhere. It’s not worth the risk if you’re fearful of theft.

Final Thoughts

Although it’s possible for someone to steal a photo or image with a watermark, it would take a lot of hard work. If you place a watermark over your image, it’s safe from those who want to steal it. If you don’t trust watermarking, you can always take advantage of another form of security to keep your photos out of harm’s way when posted on the internet.

We hope this information was helpful! The more you know about protecting your images, the longer they can last on the internet without getting stolen. There are plenty of effective ways to ensure thieves can’t steal your photo. However, if you’re paranoid, it may be best not to place the image online. Keep it as safe as possible if you love it.

DWG files are associated with AutoCad and could have problems opening in Adobe Illustrator. Illustrator is a complex application that takes time and effort to master. Following a few processes, you can learn the ins and outs of Illustrator and open DWG files without issue. So what do you do when you can’t open DWG files in Illustrator? 

Illustrator can become complicated when the files you need aren’t loading correctly. Often it takes a higher level of proficiency to solve these problems, which means time away from your project and less progress. Don’t sweat it! Read and learn why DWG files won’t open in Illustrator and how to fix it!

How to Fix DWG Files Not Opening

DWG files are used in Computer Aided Drawing software like AutoCAD and several others. They use designs in 3D and 2D to aid architects and designers in building sprawling complexes or sophisticated plumbing systems. When using Adobe Illustrator, your might find that your version might not open these types of files, or there could be extra info to decode.

The Version Could be the Reason Behind the Failure

One of the good things about the files not opening is that it comes down to only a few error types. When the fail box populates, the number 2067 is shown, and you are only allowed to hit the OK button at the bottom of the box. There are just a couple of reasons this happens, and they are closely related.

A few reasons that Illustrator won’t open DWG files are:

• Incorrect Version – You should check to see if your version of Illustrator is updated to the most recent version. A patch was made opening DWG files with external info unloadable if it has been updated. Despite the updates, there are issues with opening the files with no end.
• File Selection – When selecting the file to download, you leave the DWG box unclicked. A drop-down menu with this information during the Open portion of the operation will have DWG files as an option. Always choose it when working with CAD-based files.

You can pick the file type you want to open with the File>Open process. These files can be one of several different types, and if you are working with DWG, make sure that is the type you choose. While it is an easy fix, learning the correct process will save time and keep you from having problems in the future.

External Info is Another Reason DWG Files Won’t Load

If there’s external info like links to other files or drawings, there’s a chance the files won’t open. Of course, when getting the files, you won’t know this; it could be a surprise. The problem can be resolved by going back to the Open menu, but there are still a few things to check to ensure you are on equal footing.

Some things to check when DWG files won’t open are:

• Third-Party Software – If you are getting the files from someone who works on something besides AutoCAD, they might not load. These other programs might do the same things Illustrator does, but they do differently. There could be bits of code or processes that don’t match, forcing the file not to load appropriately.
• External Info – One of the biggest reasons DWG files won’t download is that they could have External Info inside them. External Info links to other bits of information or webpages that Illustrator could not support. If the DWG file has them, it will be rejected and not load. 

When the DWG files aren’t opening, there could be loads of stress, not just from you. These issues were fixed in an earlier update but have returned in the more recent ones. As of now, there are no fixes for these problems. Coders and programmers work around the clock to fix problems, and the geeks at Adobe are some of the best and brightest.

The Solution is in the Works

DWG files continue to have problems loading, but Adobe folks are working daily to fix the problem. The best way to ensure that the files get transmitted is to ask the sender to remove the external links or choose a different software to create the files. Unfortunately, these are complex asks, and not everyone you work with will be willing to make the switch.

A few things to do to keep up with the problem of DWG files not loading in Illustrator are:

• Check the Forums – One of the best places to find new information about the problem is to look on the Adobe forums. Some knowledgeable people can answer your questions and possibly give you something that will let you use the files.
• Do Some Homework – You can also try reading as much about Illustrator and DWG files as possible. By getting advanced knowledge of the project software, you can solve problems that general users might find overwhelming.
• Wait Around – The most extended option is to wait for the company to fix the problem. Few software companies can allow issues like this to permeate as it loses money from significant contracting and engineering firms. Adobe will work as fast as possible to solve the problem.

That’s an understandable issue. Unfortunately, you aren’t the only person suffering from it. The best thing to do is work until the problem is solved and you can move forward. If that isn’t an option, you can continue trial and error until you find a resolution.

Conclusion

You can find yourself in a pickle when DWG files aren’t loading while using Adobe Illustrator. The application is complex and can be intimidating for those who are unfamiliar with it. This unfamiliarity can become full-blown panic when you have issues like files that aren’t downloading or opening.

Remember to check your version of the Illustrator software, as this could be an issue. Then look at your Open menu to see which type of file you are trying to open. Ensure you select the DWG option when opening the file, as other types will show a failure notice. Last, check the Internet for updates on the issue from Adobe.

When working in Photoshop to create marketing material, you may run into a situation where you need to print double-sided. This is often required for media such as brochures, pamphlets, and lookbooks. But you may be wondering how to align the documents to achieve a double-sided print.

As a general rule, Photoshop cannot print more than one page at a time. Instead, each page should be saved as a separate Photoshop document, and then compiled as a PDF Presentation. From here, the file can be formatted to print double-sided, depending on the printer being used.

Though helpful in many ways, Photoshop can often be difficult to navigate. Keep reading to learn more about aligning a double-sided print in Photoshop, so that all of your marketing material comes out just right.

How Do You Print Double-Sided In Photoshop?

Photoshop offers an abundance of tools that can be helpful when creating designs for print. However, if you are trying to print multiple pages or a double-sided document, this is where things can get tricky.

For the most part, Photoshop is not set up to work with multiple pages in one document. This is actually better suited for programs like InDesign. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t possible.

Generally, you will need to create each side of the page as its own separate document, and then combine them to get the end result. Before this is done, however, you’ll want to make sure each document is properly aligned and ready for print.

Align Your Documents In Photoshop

When creating multiple documents in Photoshop that will later be printed on the same media, it’s crucial that every piece is aligned. That means that your canvas for each document should be set to the same size.

For example, if you are making a double-sided business card, you will create two documents that are both the same size.

To do this, select File from the options menu and click New. Create a custom document size by changing the width and height to your preferred size. So, in the case of a business card, you will change the measurement type to Centimeters, setting the width to 9 and the height to 5.5. Then hit Create.

Once your first document is created, you’ll repeat the process to make the second one. Remember to choose the same measurement as the first. You may also want to name each one something like Business Card Front and Business Card Back so that you don’t get confused during the design process. This also makes things easier when locating the files to print or make changes later on.

Combine As A PDF Presentation

After you have completed your designs for each document they will need to be combined. While there are a number of ways to do this, the easiest method is to create a PDF Presentation. This is a built-in tool in Photoshop that allows you to convert several PSD documents into one PDF file.

To do this, click File in the options menu and select Automate. You will then need to select the option, PDF Presentation. A new window should pop up.

From here, click Browse under Source Files and select the documents you would like to add. So, from our example earlier, you would select Business Card Front and Business Card Back.

In the Output Options, select Multi-Page Document next to Save as. Then click save. You will now have a multi-page PDF document that you can format for double-sided printing.

Set Up Print Properties

Now that you’ve created your multi-page PDF, all that’s left is to set up print properties. Since each printer is vastly different, you’ll have to open up your print properties and set the preferences for your current project.

Keep in mind that double-sided printing is an attribute that isn’t included in every printer. If your printer lacks the required functionality, it may be best to send your document to a print shop.

How To Create Double-Sided Prints Without Photoshop

If you don’t have Photoshop, another great option for creating printed material is to use sites like Placeit or Canva. Some of the items that can be created on these sites include:

• Brochures
• Pamphlets
• Business cards
• Catalogs
• Menus
• Book covers

The method on these sites is somewhat the same, in that your design will be two separate files combined into one PDF document.

Final Thoughts

Printing can be one of the trickiest aspects when working with designs. Hopefully, this quick guide gave you the information you need to turn your Photoshop design into a multipage document for easy, double-sided printing.

Vector software like Inkscape operates by creating layers that are compounded into a final document. When working with these layers, merging them to create backgrounds can become helpful. So how do you flatten layers in Inkscape?

Inkscape is a great software that will allow you to create excellent logos and illustrations that other platforms don’t offer. The downside is sometimes using it is a learning process. It’s perfectly normal to be intimidated by new programs! Read on and learn all you need to know about Flattening layers in Inkscape.

Flattening Layers In Inkscape

Inkscape works like its competitors because the same routine actions are used to create images. These actions can be performed by entering the keys or selecting them in drop-down menus. However, the menus take longer, and there are ways to hot-key a move so you can use it faster than average.

Creating Layers Is the First Step In Flattening

To merge or flatten, the layers must be created. You can create as many or as few layers as needed to finish the project, but it is wise to work under control. As you create layers, they will merge, so having a few open layers is encouraged. Always remember the layering nature and place items in the correct layer.

The steps to create layers in Inkscape are as follows:

1. Layers Palette – The first place to create layers is in the Layers palette. A side menu will give you access to each layer as it is made. There will be nameplates in each, labeling them for flattening. At the bottom of this panel, you should see a + or Add Layer button. Be sure that you keep your layers in order and labeled, so there is no confusion regarding the flattening stage.
2. Add Layers – Once you have clicked the + or Add Layer button, a naming box will populate your work screen. This box is essential because it should work as your base level for flattening. It should also be colored so that when you create the flattening layer, you don’t have two white workspaces merging.
3. Add More Layers – Once the window has been named and has some color, you should add one or two more. These layers will need to have their names and alternate colors or graphics. Graphics work best if you want to create a single piece of art and colors if you just want to make shapes on the page and color them.
4. Organize Layers – You should understand that what is happening is you are making a picture one layer at a time. You set yourself up for success, not failure, by building or placing them in order. Disaster means that your background takes over the workspace, and none of the elements you created are visible in the pane.

Creating layers is easy once you know which buttons create and which ones delete. The critical thing to remember is the file names of the layers and to check for Locks. Each layer should have an Unlock symbol beside it, or you will not be able to flatten them when it comes time. Tiny symbols like Unlock can be hard to understand. Don’t be afraid to learn from your mistakes.

Flattening the Layers Is a Simple and Speedy Process

Once you realize how easy it is to flatten and merge layers with Inkscape, your design ideas will take off. Of course, the software’s functionality allows you to do many things but learning the simple things, like flattening, are often the first stepping stones to something greater. You are taking your first steps into a larger world by accomplishing this small task.

The steps to flatten layers in Inkscape are:

1. Merge Layer – Before flattening the layers into one image, you must make another for the finished product. Again, remember to click only the layers with an open Unlock symbol. If you have problems sorting or altering layers, you should always check for the Unlock symbol in Inkscape.
2. Click the Layers – You should go into the layers you want to merge and use the Selector tool to click them. Then, by holding the Control key, you can select more options. It is best to have a background and layers for each graphic.
3. Copy – It might seem like a hack, but copying and pasting the layers is how they get merged. A drop-down menu will appear by Right-Clicking once all the layers and graphics are selected. From the menu, choose Copy or press the keys Ctrl + C. Copy/Paste is a valuable tool and should be used often.
4. Flatten the Layers – Once you have copied everything, you should move over to the Merge layer you created earlier. As soon as the workspace is ready, you can hit Ctrl + V or choose Paste in Place from the Edit drop-down menu. Again, once the buttons are pushed, the layer should populate with all the elements on a single workspace.

Once you realize how simple the process of flattening layers in Inkscape can be completed, you will look for reasons to add it to your projects. It creates impressive art that some people use as logos or illustrations. The most important thing to remember is that your layers are set up correctly, or you could have a field populated with your background color and nothing else.

Conclusion

Flattening layers in Inkscape is a simple process that requires you to create a few layers with background elements before merging them into a single layer. These created layers can be used as designs or logos for your company or event. Remember that you don’t have to be a graphic designer to use Inkscape but applying their concepts will definitely help.

A few important things to remember when working with layers is keeping them named, and in the order you want them layered. By doing these small things, you create a design that is not only simple but effective and is sure to improve the life of your brand and company.

Overlapping paths can be good or bad for your design in Inkscape. Removing them is a simple process in Illustrator, but using Inkscape could leave you searching for answers. So how do you remove overlapping paths in Inkscape?

Inkscape is a vector design program like Illustrator that does things differently. Some keystrokes and shortcuts take time to learn, and you could be running behind on the project as it sits. Be calm and identify your first task. Read on and learn how to remove overlapping paths in Inkscape.

Removing Overlapping Paths In Inkscape

Inkscape is a fantastic, easy-to-use program that is a suitable replacement for the industry-standard Adobe Creative Cloud. The critical difference between them is like comparing apples and oranges but boils down to the differences in how their code was written. When a company makes a successful program, it will often trademark the algorithm.

Removing Overlapping Paths Is an Easy Process

When it comes to removing overlapping paths, there’s a simple process you can follow that will help you. The disconnect comes from users of the Adobe suite with a Remove Overhang option that will combine all the strokes that interact. Unfortunately, this isn’t an option in Inkscape, but updates are coming that could streamline the process.

The first steps in removing overlapping paths in Inkscape are as follows:

1. Click the Boundary – You first need to find the stroke acting as the object’s boundary. This will be a thick segment that can be separated and dragged to another layer. Layers are necessary because they allow you to drag the vital line and strokes to a place where you can unite them. Once you have it, it is selected; change it to a stroke.
2. Duplicate – Once you have the correct stroke selected, you should duplicate it. By pressing the shortcut Ctrl + D, you create a duplicate copy that can be edited and not just a copy of the image.
3. Drop it Down – Choose the stroke you will delete and move it down to the lowest layer. This stroke could have some attachments that need to be trimmed, but otherwise, the standard move will get the shape where you need it to go. Once they are on the bottom, convert them to paths.

These are the first steps in the process of removing overlapping paths. When doing these steps, you must know the difference between a stroke and a path. It is easiest to remember that a stroke is a line that follows a path.

You Will Need to Use the Path Menu to Complete the Job

Now that the strokes are selected and changed to paths, you can move on to the next steps. Of course, a few things need to be done before the paths are removed, but now is the time to ensure you have the right areas clicked and moved to the corresponding layers before getting into the following steps section.

The next set of steps in removing overlapping paths in Inkscape are:

1. Select the Strokes – Now that the strokes and path are separated, it is time to select the strokes on the project. By picking the trim and boundary strokes, you open the floor for deleting the paths. Click on the Difference tool, and the paths will disappear.
2. Path>Break Apart – When you clicked on the Difference tool, the paths around the excess of the selection and removed the boundary. Now the paths have been made into one solid piece, and we need to break it apart. So go to Path and choose Break Apart from the drop-down menu.
3. Delete Excess – A few pieces left after you choose to break apart that need to be rounded up and deleted. These should only take a few minutes but be thorough, as a stray section could ruin a design.

Once the excess is deleted, your project will have no overlapping paths. This works like magic, and as you move from step to step, you will see the final shape of your project come into focus. Once you have the keystrokes in your memory, you should try it several times until you know the process without having to look back or take notes.

There Are Other Ways to Remove Overlapping Paths

The above example is for items with intricate designs that need to be hollowed or deleted in sections. Another way to do it is by picking the area and using another tool. Then you can go back and make edits. It is much quicker but made for smaller jobs and not intricate works.

A few other ways to remove overlapping paths are:

• Union – Go through and click all the sections you want. Now go to the Path menu and click on the Union button. This will unify all selected portions into one cohesive piece, deleting overlapping paths.
• Nodes – Another popular way to remove overlapping paths is by controlling the nodes of a shape. By controlling the sections using the Paths tool, you can open and close the areas you want to overlap and those you don’t.

Finding other ways to get the job done is part of using vector software like Inkscape. There could be tiny situations that pop up in projects that are befuddling, and knowing what the software is capable of gives you a leg-up on the competition.

Conclusion

Removing overlapping paths in Inkscape can be done in a few different ways. The long way ensures that all paths leftover will be deleted, and you get an intricate design that can be used for essential or high-paying projects. Using it takes time but will allow you to remove all paths and a few errors thoroughly.

Using the Path tools and the menu will give you other options for removing overlapping paths, but it isn’t as precise as the other option. When using it, you often select entire areas and fill them in. This makes for rougher designs but can be used in a fix to get a quick and effective logo or design.

RAW and DNG are two of the most popular formats to handle in photography. However, many photographers are wary about converting a RAW file to a DNG option. Does converting from RAW to DNG decrease file quality?

Converting a RAW file into DNG will not harm the quality of the image. It’s a lossless conversion, which allows a transfer to a smaller file without losing quality.

If you’re interested in learning more about converting from RAW to DNG, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about DNG vs. RAW, why there are different formats, and more vital information. As a photographer, the more you know about these items, the better your photos will fare.

DNG Vs. RAW

DNG and RAW files are different formats, so it’s critical to understand what you’re dealing with before exporting a file. DNG files are usually 15%-20% smaller than the classic RAW file, which brings to light the concern of lost file quality. However, the switch from RAW to DNG does not cause issues with the file’s appearance.

Many assume it’s necessary to convert RAW files to the DNG format. However, this step isn’t necessary. Many photographers have stopped utilizing DNG because the difference is not much and there is always a possibility of losing something in the export.

DNG and RAW are very similar, but they are not the same. DNG is an Adobe format that has worked well over the years, fitting in any working software that reads DNG. RAW is the most basic form of the photo and remains a favorite among many.

These are two quality formats – but why are there different formats? What warrants the need for so many different opportunities with a photo?

Why Are There Different Formats?

It can be tricky to navigate the various file formats for photography, especially if you’re new to the industry. Some formats are simpler to handle, while others require the skills of a professional to edit and turn into a final incredible product.

Here are a few explanations for the different file formats:

• Ease: Some people prefer file formats for the ease they offer. Formats like DNG work with many different applications.
• Practicality: Smaller file formats are more practical than massive ones.
• Storage: Some individuals don’t have room for extensive storage. They like smaller formats for easier keeping.
• Expertise: Experts work with different formats than beginners. A professional may use a RAW file, while a beginner may enjoy a JPEG.

Various file formats cater to the different needs of professionals and beyond.

As you become more comfortable with photo editing and other items, it will become easier to work with various file formats and determine the best selection for your photos. There are many formats to address different needs in the editing process.

Are DNG Files Lossless?

A DNG file is a lossless, RAW form of an image. It was created by Adobe for use in photography and has stuck around as a standard in plenty of systems. It is an open format system that works well in most instances of digital photography use.

DNG is a patented image format. It hasn’t been around as long as other versions of digital photography, but it has made an impact nonetheless. This lossless file has made waves in the world of digital photography.

To the untrained eye, RAW and DNG might seem the same. Are they similar? What factors separate RAW and DNG from each other?

Are RAW and DNG the Same?

RAW and DNG files might seem the same, but they aren’t the same product. The photographs that come from digital cameras are in a RAW file format, while DNG is ideal for photo editing purposes. They are both excellent tools for a photographer to have in their tool chest.

Beginners may function better with DNG files, but experts love to operate with RAW files. DNG photos are easier to edit, but RAW files better capture the original image. You can compress DNG files into smaller sizes than RAW files, making them much more practical for storage purposes.

Another critical difference lies in compatibility. RAW files aren’t nearly as compatible with as many systems as DNG photos. With DNG, you have access to tons of software and applications that RAW files may prevent you from accessing.

We’ve gone over RAW and DNG files. You might wonder – why are there so many file formats? Let’s talk about a few of the most prominent.

Main Camera File Formats

When using a camera, you will see more formats than RAW and DNG. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the possibilities. Let’s list out a few of the main camera file formats to help you determine the best options for your creative needs.

Here are the main camera file formats:

• JPEG 
• HEFF
• TIFF
• RAW
• DNG
• PNG
• GIF
• BMP

These will appear at export stages and everywhere in between.

The best files to work with are still RAW and DNG. Once you make your edits in these formats, you can export to JPEG, PNG, or GIF. It’s up to you to determine the final resting state of your photograph.

Why Avoid Converting RAW to DNG?

We’ve talked about the lack of change when shifting RAW to DNG. Despite this fact, many people refuse to convert from one to the other. What are some reasons you might want to avoid converting from RAW to DNG with your image?

Here are a few of the strongest reasons:

• It can be a point of no return
• It’s an additional hassle
• They don’t load faster

Ultimately, the decision is yours. It’s up to you to determine which file format works best for your experience as a photographer. Beginners will choose differently than experts, and that’s okay. RAW and DNG are excellent formats.

There are so many outlets you can sell your art for an income. One way you can make money as an artist is by becoming a book cover artist. But does this income come at a flat fee, or do you get royalties?

Most of the time, book cover artists get a flat fee for their work. This industry is competitive, and many authors don’t make enough from their novels to allow royalties.

Now there are ways to get royalties for your book covers, but most of the time, there is just a flat fee for the work. Here is everything you need to know.

Do Book Cover Artists Get Royalties?

You can earn a decent work income by selling book covers to authors and publishers. If you are just entering this industry, you will receive a flat fee for any project. Don’t worry. You get to set the price.

Most cover artists charge several hundred dollars for their covers and any fees for alterations the author requests. You can even premake your book covers and sell them on websites where authors go to find something for their books. They may request some changes but usually nothing drastic.

Once an author purchases your book cover, you won’t see any other income because it is a flat fee. That author now owns that work, and you have no rights over it.

Why Is It a Flat Fee?

You may be wondering why book covers are a flat fee and not something based on how much work goes into the creation of the book cover.

The reason book covers are a flat fee is due to how competitive the book industry is. There is no promise of success, so often, an author may not sell enough to earn an income that would give royalties.

This doesn’t mean you can’t earn royalties, but books often may not sell or just not have the revenue to offer this as an income. Usually, you sign a contract rendering your work as theirs now for one lump sum. This also protects you if the book does not do well.

How Can I Earn Royalties?

You can earn royalties from your work. You don’t have to settle for selling the book cover and never getting anything from it ever again. You can draw up a contract that gives you a certain percentage of the sales.

Each client will be different. Some clients will not be able to give royalties and will want to be charged one payment. But if you are working with a well-known author or publisher, it may be better to ask for royalties.

How to Ask for Royalties

It can be nerve-racking to bring up royalties rather than a one-time payment, but open communication is key. Your clients will not know what you want unless you tell them exactly what it is.

Create a base contract that you both can go over. Some authors may want to go the royalty route. Having a base contract drawn up can only help you move the process along, and you can edit it after discussing it with your client.

What Should I Ask For?

Determining what you should charge can be intimidating. You don’t want to ask for too much, but you don’t want to ask for too little.

Here are some general ideas of what to charge for when you are making a contract for royalties:

• Ask for 10% or more on ebooks because there are no printing costs.
• You can request an advance or deposit for the project (this can be for reassurance just in case the sales aren’t good).
• Hardcover books should be the least in percentage due to printing costs.
• A contract can cover the entire series of a book or just the first book in a series.
• Ensure the contract covers the book’s entire printing run with your cover.

Advancement within the contract can help you begin the project and will cover you if the book does flop. Sometimes this happens even with large publishers and books with prospects. These are great, especially when it is a new and upcoming author.

If you are working with a bigger publisher or well-known author, you can ask for more royalties, but it doesn’t always mean they will stay with you. But don’t be afraid to ask for what you believe you deserve.

Outro

Being a book cover artist is not easy. You have to have the courage to ask for what you want, whether you want that flat fee or royalties from book sales. You may not always get what you want, but you will never know until you ask.