iPad for Artists: App of the Week

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​One of my favorite apps for combining text and images, TypeDrawing, is this Friday's  iPad for Artists App. TypeDrawing is neither new nor trendy -- there has been a web-based version of the software for several years. ​(I'm still using my iPhone version, but plan to update after seeing the iPad interface improvements.) The iPad and iPhone version is handy for on-the-go work and the retina screen of the iPad makes it all so beautiful.

TypeDrawing is useful in so many ways for we who work in mixed media or fabric or surface design -- and for graphic designers, too:

  1. Making images for thermofax, screen-prints or direct prints of specific words, text or letters.
  2. Adding words on top of images for invitations, posters and postcards
  3. Randomizing text for direct printing
  4. Sizing text and choosing fonts for other design applications.
  5. Drawing with typography (See this website for examples!)​

​The interface takes a bit of learning - and the website has good, if short, tutorials and explanations.

In general -- Hit the + sign for a new page, T to type in your text, F to select font and how the font is manipulated, the litttle square and eyedropper are color choice and color picker, respectively, the rectangle lets you select color and opacity  -- you can also choose and import a photo to use as a drawing aid or as a background - great for using to make invitations.​

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​Two images of posters I designed with TypeDrawing and some iPad art images.

​Two images of posters I designed with TypeDrawing and some iPad art images.

Fun with Instant Sketch

I'm always looking for fun and differenct (and free or almost free) apps to load on my iphone, and this one is a winner: Instant Sketch. It's just another variation on a photo sketch tool, but it does precisely what I want with a miminum of settings to tinker with. This will be a great app to share in my COMPUTER TO CLOTH workshop at El Cielo this April, since it's an easy way to go from photo or collage or artwork to a completely black-and-white line drawing. You can alter the line hardness and softness, and add or subtract deep blacks. 

The image above is from this letter collage set and shows the possibility for using this app with art/collage and text, as well as its intended use with photos. I've posted a couple of those examples below, as well.

You can choose an HD or SD (definitions high or standard) for your output and email the images or share via FB.

The sketch above is from a cropped version of this photo (you can crop and scale in the app, too, or take a photo on the spot).

 

 

 

Well, other than the wrinkles, it all works. And I did earn everyone of them!