Avoid These Beginner Mistakes in Paint Tool SAI

Everyone has to start somewhere when it comes to graphic design tools, but there are some mistakes you can easily avoid when you follow these tips:

Don’t Get in a Rush

It’s likely that you’re excited to get started creating and showing off your art in Paint Tool SAI, but it would be a good idea to take your time and get to know the program and its tools first. Rushing ahead is one of the biggest mistakes beginners make because they are so eager. Instead, learn how to maximize Paint Toll SAI before showing off your work. This will likely lead to better art and a more consistent workflow.

Study Others

Although you’re always encouraged to develop and nurture your own unique style when creating art in Paint Tool SAI, take some time to study the work that others have done using the program first. This can not only serve to help you find your own style, but it may also inspire you in creating new works of art.

Avoid Blending Too Much

One of the things about Paint Tool SAI and other graphic design tools is that the artist has the ability to use digital blending tools. At first, these tools can seem like a miracle in that they help to hide mistakes and make a piece of art seem more cohesive and even surreal. Too much blending, however, can ruin a great work of art. As a result, use blending only when necessary and avoid blending to hide mistakes. If you messed something up, go back and correct it.

Create Off of Good References

When using a reference to create from, you want to make sure it’s a good one. If you’re attempting to replicate a piece of work that simply doesn’t measure up, you’re going to be the one who suffers in the end. Take some time to really think about what adds up to good art for you before settling on a reference piece. Has the subject been conveyed properly? Are you wanting to also replicate the style and tone? The answers to these questions will help you to become a better artist in Paint Tool SAI.

Concentrate on Shade As Well As Light

Shading is one of the most basic, yet powerful, tools you can use when creating art, but light is equally important. After all, shade is the byproduct of subjects being caught within light. Therefore, you need to ensure that your creations take into account both of these elements. Shade without light will appear strange, and light without shade will simply come across as awkward. As with other pieces of art, make sure that you maintain directional permanence when working with shade and light in Paint Tool SAI.

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