These will help streamline your workflow and create high-quality designs. These checklists cover setup, design processes, exporting, and advanced tasks.
Before starting a project in Illustrator, ensure your workspace and document are set up correctly.
Define the Purpose:
- Is it for print (CMYK, 300 DPI) or web (RGB, 72 DPI)?
Set Document Size:
- For print: Standard sizes (A4, Letter).
- For web: Pixel dimensions (e.g., 1920x1080 px).
Add Bleed for Print (if applicable):
- Go to File > New, set a bleed (e.g., 3mm or 0.125 in).
Color Mode:
- Choose RGB for digital designs or CMYK for print.
Enable Grids and Guides:
- Go to View > Show Grid and View > Rulers > Show Rulers.
Save File Properly:
- Use .AI format for editable files and Save As for backups.
When working on a project, follow these steps to maintain quality and consistency.
Name Layers: Name layers logically (e.g., Background, Text, Icons).
Lock Layers: Lock completed elements to avoid accidental edits.
Group Objects: Use Ctrl+G (Cmd+G) to group related items.
Use Shapes and Paths:
- Use tools like the Rectangle Tool (M), Ellipse Tool (L), and Pen Tool (P).
Apply Gradients or Fills:
- Use the Gradient Tool (G) or Appearance Panel for advanced effects.
Typography:
- Limit font types to 2–3.
- Use Type Tool (T) and adjust tracking, leading, and kerning in the Character Panel.
Alignment:
- Use the Align Panel to center or distribute objects evenly.
Use Global Swatches: Create and apply swatches for consistency.
Check Contrast: Use the Color Guide panel for harmonious or accessible color schemes.
Use Effects (non-destructive):
- Go to Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow for shadows or glows.
Save Graphic Styles:
- Save frequently used effects as Graphic Styles for reuse.
Expand Appearances (if needed):
- Go to Object > Expand Appearance before exporting.
Use this checklist to prepare your designs for print or digital platforms.
Save the Editable File:
- Always save your source file as an .AI file.
Export File Type:
- For web: Export as PNG, JPG, or SVG via File > Export > Export As.
- For print: Export as PDF with crop marks and bleed.
Image Resolution: Set export resolution to 72 PPI.
Optimize SVGs: Use Object > Expand to flatten unnecessary elements before exporting.
Check Dimensions: Ensure dimensions match your intended display size.
Embed Fonts: Go to File > Save As > Adobe PDF and check Embed Fonts.
Set Bleed Area: Verify the bleed is included in the export.
High-Quality Resolution: Export at 300 PPI for crisp print results.
| Element | Details |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|
| Artboard Size | 1000 x 1000 px |
| Layers | Separate text, shapes, and icons. |
| Color Mode | RGB (digital) or CMYK (print). |
| Export Format | SVG for web, PDF for print. |
| Element | Details |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|
| Artboard Size | Instagram: 1080 x 1080 px |
| | Facebook: 1200 x 628 px |
| Resolution | 72 PPI |
| File Format | PNG or JPG for web |
| Layers | Background, Text, and Graphics. |
| Element | Details |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|
| Artboard Size | 3.5 x 2 in (with 0.125 in bleed) |
| Color Mode | CMYK |
| Typography | Use 6 pt minimum for small text. |
| File Format | PDF Print with crop marks and bleed |
| Element | Details |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|
| Artboard Size | 800 x 2000 px |
| Color Scheme | Use a triadic or analogous color palette. |
| Typography | Headlines: 24 pt / Body Text: 12 pt |
| Icons and Graphics | Use vector icons for scalability. |
| Export Format | PNG, JPG, or PDF (depending on use). |
| Element | Details |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|
| Artboard Size | 500 x 500 px |
| Color Mode | RGB or CMYK |
| Pattern Type | Create using Object > Pattern > Make. |
| Export Format | SVG or PNG |
Share Files: Save files in cloud storage (e.g., Adobe Cloud or Google Drive).
Use Layer Naming Standards: Ensure layers and groups are clearly labeled.
Embed or Link Files: Link large assets (e.g., images) to reduce file size.
Leave Notes: Use Comments in Adobe CC Libraries or external tools like PDF annotations.
File Too Large:
- Remove unused layers and elements.
- Compress images before importing.
Fonts Missing:
- Activate missing fonts via Adobe Fonts in the Creative Cloud App.
Design Looks Blurry When Exported:
- Ensure resolution is set to 300 PPI (print) or 72 PPI (web) during export.
- Export SVGs for scalable vector graphics.
Can’t Select Objects:
- Unlock layers or objects via the Layers Panel.