Learn Design Theory

Discover the principles and practices that make great design with our design theory tutorials. Master everything from color theory to design trends.

Getting started with Theory

  • Teach Yourself Graphic Design: A Self-Study Course Outline

    Teach Yourself Graphic Design: A Self-Study Course Outline

    Sean Hodge
  • Rebellious Design: Brutalism Meets 90s Graphic Design

    Rebellious Design: Brutalism Meets 90s Graphic Design

    Laura Keung
    1. The Principles of Design

      The Principles of Design

      Tutorial Beginner

      Wondering what goes into the creation of a successful design piece? Learn what are the principles of design, see examples of principles of design, and more!

    2. What Is the Maximalism Graphic Design Trend?

      What Is the Maximalism Graphic Design Trend?

      Tutorial Beginner

      In this article, we take a look at the the maximalism graphic design trend through the decades and different design trends. This is one of the most chaotic,...

    3. What Fonts Are Trending Now and Font Trends for 2024

      What Fonts Are Trending Now and Font Trends for 2024

      Tutorial Beginner

      Consider this your ultimate guide to trending fonts in 2024. From 90s magazine fonts to the influence that K-culture will be wielding on typography in the...

    4. Inspiration: Star Wars Day Resources

      Inspiration: Star Wars Day Resources

      Tutorial Beginner

      Join us as we celebrate Star Wars Day with a carefully curated selection of the best resources from Envato Elements to help you create your own sci-fi...

    5. How to Create a Pride Rainbow Gradient Overlay in Adobe Illustrator

      How to Create a Pride Rainbow Gradient Overlay in Adobe Illustrator

      Tutorial Beginner

      June is seen as LGBTQI Pride month (although this varies around the globe), but you can show your Pride all year round by creating your own pride rainbow...

    6. T-Shirt Design Trends for 2024

      T-Shirt Design Trends for 2024

      Tutorial Beginner

      If you're looking to sell T-shirts, it's best to keep them trendy. In 2024, that means fun and quirky designs! Let's look at the trends that will be taking...

    7. Identifying Geometric Patterns in Graphic Design

      Identifying Geometric Patterns in Graphic Design

      Tutorial Beginner

      The seamless repetition of shapes in geometric patterns can deliver eye-catching and memorable designs. You'll find geometric design patterns on greeting...

    8. Identifying Trend-Influenced Patterns in Graphic Design

      Identifying Trend-Influenced Patterns in Graphic Design

      Tutorial Beginner

      Let's discover and identify some trendy, influential, and distinctive graphic design patterns that have left a lasting legacy over time in the design world.

    9. Is This Image AI-Generated? Here's How You Can Tell

      Is This Image AI-Generated? Here's How You Can Tell

      Tutorial Beginner

      Wondering how to tell if an image is AI-generated or not? In this article, we will equip you with tools and tricks to help you unmask the truth behind any...

    10. The Principle of Economy: The Unexpected Power of a Font and a Rectangle

      The Principle of Economy: The Unexpected Power of a Font and a Rectangle

      Tutorial Intermediate

      What do a feminist, anti-consumerist artist, a streetwear brand, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and NASA's Apollo program have in common?

    11. 20 Free and Useful Adobe Illustrator Scripts

      20 Free and Useful Adobe Illustrator Scripts

      Tutorial Beginner

      There's nothing easier than using Illustrator scripts: just select the object and run the script you need! These scripts will save you time and effort.

    12. 20+ Must-Have Retro Condensed Fonts (Trend for 2024!)

      20+ Must-Have Retro Condensed Fonts (Trend for 2024!)

      Tutorial Beginner

      Looking for a font that'll bring a cool vintage vibe to your next project? Why not try one of these retro condensed fonts from Envato Elements.