For years I have wanted to try designing classroom clip art—without spending money on specialty software. Last weekend, I found Education with an Apron’s easy-to-follow video tutorial explaining how to use PowerPoint to create clip art. Now, I am slightly addicted. I am sharing the link and my experience in case some of my teaching colleagues, kidmin friends, followers, or students would enjoy designing clip art. (It’s free and, if you’re making original designs, you don’t have to worry about copyright restrictions!)
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I am also considering incorporating a couple of clip art trips to the computer lab as part of my art curriculum. The word “SEE” is posted in large block letters at the front of my art classroom and creating clip art would help students “see” rudimentary shapes in a subject. In addition to the shape element, the applications of proportion, symmetry, patterns, layers, and technology make this a great STEAM project.
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I have MUCH more to learn about creating clip art. I want to discover my own style, use shading for depth, add intricate details, and design an array of animate and inanimate objects. I have already started creating patterns, textures and backgrounds, combining Paint and PowerPoint. Like I said…it’s slightly addicting.
One hint: work and save large-sized. It is easier to work with a larger image, and you can always shrink to the size you need.
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If any of these images are helpful to you, feel free to use them for personal, educational, or commercial purposes (within a created document). They may not be sold as clip art. Attribution is appreciated, but not necessary.
I hope this post inspires someone to design clip art. If you have a question, please leave a comment below. If you are an experienced clip artist, this novice will take any tips or tricks you have to offer!
I wonder how hard it is to design fonts…
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