Design Software

[Velvetee]

I'm in the process of starting a T Shirt company. I want to design my own prints and customise. I have the ideas in my mind, but can't put them on "paper".

Does anyone know of any design packages that will assist those of us who aren't natural graphic artists?

[ACtheTROLL]

No
the graphics progs are just that - the talent comes from the user

a DTP type prog will help with layout - but the clipart graphics are pretty universally cheesy (I certainly wouldn't pay for a tee shirt that used MS Word's clip-art!)

I'm a bit curious - cause I'd like to open a portrait studio - to sell oil paintings of customers - trouble is I can't draw
Do you think I'd be better looking for something else?
(I got the idea from little britain)

http://www.streetshirts.co.uk/shop/extras.aspx ?id=designer_new

seriously - how do you expect to survive in a business that relies totally on artistic talent?

if you mean the blackpool (shudder) type of sh@g me quick shirts - all you need is a supplier - and an iron.

sorry to be so positive
I have no talent whatsoever It's why I do what I do

[Velvetee]

I used to be a Fashion Designer and studied Art and Design. That is why I want to start a company, moreso as a hobby and because I like Fashion, not for the money.

However, I have never used any artistic software packages to do this. Ideally I would like to have everything on computer and not just paper. Whilst I am capable of drawing a figure with clothing on, incorporating the graphic design side, is harder.

I've done some designs using "Paint", but it takes ages to do one design. Maybe I'll by a graphics tablet.

[snagged]

If I've understood your question correctly, you are asking what design software programmes are available that will enable you to get your 'initial sketches and ideas' into a more 'finished state' via a computer, ready for printing/production?

I am a graphic designer and recommend Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. These programmes will allow you to edit, manipulate and bring images, graphics and type/text together.

[Velvetee]

Is Photoshop user friendly and easy to master these days Snagged? How much does the package cost? Also, with photoshop, are you able to perhaps trace over another image for shape and get that on screen too? Sorry, not making myself too clear, as I don't really know the jargon.

Have you ever used a Graphics Tablet, as that has been suggested to me too? Am I correct in assuming the tablet is drawn onto freehand and image translates to computer?

Thanks

[snagged]

If you want to get a drawing/sketch that you have initially done 'on paper' on to your computer (rather than creating an image 'from scratch' on the computer itself, with a graphics tablet for example), imo the easiest way would be to get yourself a scanner, or even take a photo of your original with a digital camera. Once your original is on your computer, you can then use it as a template and trace/manipulate/tidy/redraw it with a drawing programme.

From what you have said, I think a 'drawing' programme - something like Illustrator - might be more useful, rather than Photoshop. However, Illustrator is a 'professional' programme and not cheap! There are 'simpler' drawing programmes available that may still be good enough for what you want to do: a Google search for 'graphic/drawing programmes' or similar will give you an idea of what is available.

[Velvetee]

Thanks Snagged. I've been reading about Illustrator and it maybe what I need, I can trace from photos and create my own stylisation. Will get more info before buying.