Adobe Illustrator is a great software program for vectors, but, do you really need it in order to make the kind of svg files that you use on a Cricut or Silhouette die cut machine?

The simple answer is no. But, now you’re probably thinking “What will I use to make my cut files?”. There are other vector programs perfect for crafting. 

Scroll down to the bottom if you’d rather watch the video than read the post.

I get commissions for purchases made through some of the links in this post. There is no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.

Do you like drawing on your iPad or a tablet?

Download the bonus cheat sheet filled with 7 online drawing apps that you’ll love to use. I bet you don’t know all 7 of them! 

What’s Adobe Illustrator and What’s It Used For Anyway?

Adobe Illustrator is a software program that uses vectors. Vectors graphics use mathematical calculations (wait…. Do I need to do math to draw!!!!).

You don’t need to be a math expert to use it, it all works behind the scenes. Sort of like the coding that happens on a website.  

Ok, I’m getting off-topic.  Back to Adobe. So the benefit of using a vector-based program is that your designs will be crisp and clear. 

You won’t get that pixelated result like you do with raster-based graphics when you enlarge them.

Alternatives to Adobe Illustrator

For a long time, Adobe has been the standard of the design community, but that is slowly (or rapidly, depends on who you ask) changing. 

There are ways to create svg files that don’t require you to pay a monthly subscription. Maybe you’ve always been told that you need to use Adobe but I’m here to tell you that’s simply not true anymore. 

Here are two drawing programs that I love using.

1. Affinity Designer
2. Inkscape

Get Inkscape, Ready, Set, Go! This e-book will teach you the shortcuts and tips to become a pro at drawing in Inkscape.

What is Affinity Designer

Affinity Designer is a new kid on the block (well, new to me, lol). This graphic software program comes in a desktop version and a version for iPad. I love options, don’t you? 

It also has a secret recipe of its own. It has the ability to produce raster and vector graphics!! Say what?! Yes, you can make both types of designs in one program. 

You’ll be happy to hear that the price is very affordable for any budget. Did I mention that there is only a one-time payment? You can’t beat that.

What is Inkscape?

Inkscape is an open-source graphic software.  Open source means it’s available to anyone without having to pay to use it. 

There is a community of volunteer coders and designers that maintain it. The forum and FAQ section of their website is pretty active and up to date.

I started out with Inkscape and I still like to use it to make my svg files. 

You might now be aware that there is also an online application for Inkscape. This can come in handy if you want to make designs on a tablet.

For example, if you use the Cricut Design Space application on your iPad or Android tablet, you can also use the online version of Inkscape.

This can be a huge time saver when you’re trying to make t-shirts in a short amount of time.

Now that you know what options are out there, which one are you going to try?

How to Use Inkscape

If you’re wondering if it’s worth learning how to use Inkscape, you should know that it’s is a powerful contender to Adobe Illustrator. It has just as many capabilities, if not more.

The tools and features are phenomenal, but can also be a little intimidating when you’re just getting started. You want to save time and start creating like a pro.

Another way to save time, is to use the shortcuts in Inkscape. Of course you can draw within the program without using the shortcuts but trust me when I tell you they are worth learning. 

Instead of going to the menu and opening up each drop down list and looking for the name of the tool, you can just type in the keyboard shortcut to get the job done.

There are lots of shortcuts and in the beginning, it can be confusing to know where to find them all. Even trying to remember how to use them can be a challenge.

That’s why I created a quick and easy to use e-book for the most used shortcuts in Inkscape.

This e-book will show you the default keyboard and mouse shortcuts of Inkscape.

It will help you use Inkscape simply and quickly. And I know that you’ll love saving all that time!

Yield: 2

How to find Alternatives to Adobe Illustrator

No Ratings

Print

There are ways to create svg files that don’t require you to use Adobe. 

Here are two drawing programs that I love using.

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Difficulty Medium

Tools

Instructions

Search for and download one of the two options below.

1. Affinity Designer (a paid vector and raster program)

2. Inkscape (an open-source vector program)

Notes

If you use Inkscape, my Inkscape, Ready, Set, Go! e-book will show you how to use all of the shortcuts so that you can design svg files like a pro.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Inkscape Ready Set Go! e-book