Trends and Tools Graphic Design

In the ever-evolving world of graphic design, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. The digital age has expanded the boundaries of what designers can achieve, and with the advent of new tools and trends, the canvas is broader than ever.

If you’re interested in taking graphic design courses, you’ll be able to use some of the industry’s best graphic design tools and explore these trends, so get ready for an exciting career journey ahead.

What are the top trends in graphic design?

Let’s start by exploring some of the latest trends in graphic design work:

Immersive designs

Graphics that appear to pop out of the screen are forcing the two-dimensional world into the past. 3D design, combined with fluid animations, offers a richer user experience. It's not just about aesthetics but also about creating a more engaging and interactive space for viewers.

Dark mode design

With many apps and websites offering a dark mode option, designers are exploring how to optimise their graphics for darker backgrounds. Not only is this easier on the eyes, but it provides a stark contrast that can make colours and design elements stand out.

Muted colour palettes

Neon and loud colours had their moment, but now muted colour palettes are on the rise. These subdued shades exude a calm, natural feel, resonating with viewers who prefer minimalistic and organic aesthetics.

Hand-drawn illustrations

In an age dominated by digital, there's a growing appreciation for the human touch. Hand-drawn illustrations, combined with digital tools, blend authenticity and modernity, making designs feel more personal and relatable.

Augmented reality (AR) graphics

Augmented Reality, commonly referred to as AR, seamlessly merges the digital and physical worlds. Plus, it’s not just for gaming. It’s a technology that expands the boundaries of graphic design, allowing designers to create interactive and immersive experiences that blend the real and the virtual. AR offers endless possibilities for innovative design, from interactive posters to immersive advertisements.

Essential tools for modern graphic designers

● Adobe Creative Cloud - Still the gold standard in graphic design software, this suite offers tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects, providing designers with a comprehensive toolkit for almost every need

● Blender - For those delving into 3D graphics, Blender is a powerful open-source tool that offers everything from modelling to animation

● Canva - Canva offers user-friendly design tools and templates, making it ideal for beginners especially. As it's a cloud-based platform, it means users can access and edit designs from anywhere

● Procreate - Tailored for iPad users, this digital painting app has become a favourite for designers. With intuitive gestures and a vast assortment of brushes, it's ideal for sketching and final designs

● Sketch -Many UI/UX designers prefer Sketch, which is specifically for web and mobile design. You can make the most of vector-based tools and an easy-to-use interface

Starting your graphic design journey

Graphic design is an industry that’s always evolving, and the tools mentioned above can help you make the most of the latest trends.

Choosing the University of Bolton to support your graphic design journey is not just about gaining expertise in the field; it's about being part of an inclusive and supportive community that fosters creativity at every step.

Our dedicated, state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum tailored to the digital age ensures that every student leaves with the skills and confidence to shine in the design world.

Do you want to make your mark in graphic design? Send a message to enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or give us a call at 01204 903903, we are here to make your ambitions a reality.