Tools I Use
Ever wondered what tools I use? Well wonder no more!
Laptop:
- Mouse: Rii Wireless Mouse RM200
- Keyboard: LANGTU L1
- Microphone: Razer Seiren Mini
My thoughts: After using Macs for 10 years, it was hard going back to PC, but ultimately, this computer works just as well as a Macbook Pro for what I need. Macs are just too expensive for me now, and really aren't necessary to run programs like Photoshop and Illustrator. It was, however, a pain learning how to use Windows again after 10 years and I swore a lot because I don't like change. So take that as you will.
Tablet:
- 12.9”- 256GB
- Wi-Fi
- Silver
iPad Accessories:
My thoughts: Before I had an iPad, I had a Cintiq Pro 13" HD, and before that I had an Wacom Intuos. You DO NOT need an iPad to get started! There are also many on screen tablet alternatives to Wacom now that look pretty good, like Huion. If you want the ease of seeing what you're directly drawing on, definitely give those a look. I am fortunate to have had a full time design job for 4 years that helped me pay for my Cintiq and my iPad, but they are not necessary to get started.
Software:
-
Adobe Creative Cloud
- Photoshop
- Illustrator
- InDesign
- Acrobat Pro
- Premiere Pro - Procreate
My thoughts: I unfortunately have only ever experienced the Adobe life, but I have seen many people talk about programs like Clip Studio Paint and I think Paint Tool Sai. If Adobe/iPad does not fit into your budget, there are many lower cost or free programs out there!
Machines:
- Colour Printer: Canon Pixma Pro 100
- Laser Printer: Brother HL-L2320D Monochrome Reliable Laser Printer
- Die Cut Machine: Cricut Explore Air 2
My thoughts: Get these on sale. They come on sale fairly often. As for the printer, I LOVE this printer, plus there are cheaper inks on Amazon because dang Canon, why is the ink so dang expensiveeeee.
As for Cricut vs Silhouette, I've only ever had Cricut and, they are ok. Not amazing, but gets the job done. I've had some issues with alignment here and there, but adding a bigger border to my stickers helps sometimes. Otherwise, I cry.
Paper I use for:
- Prints: Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte
- Stickers: Weatherproof Matte Inkjet Paper
My thoughts: The Epson paper is a little thin, but the print quality is 100%. The sticker paper is also the same, and has worked perfectly fine for me!