Must Have Software & Tools

Are you looking for the best software and tools that will bring you closer to your dream of a creative business? In my seven years of marketing, I have put one or the other tool and software to the test and here it is: my all time favorite list. Some of the items are affiliate links, which means that I get a small share if you buy something. But you don't have any extra costs.

Skillshare

Skillshare is the first online learning platform I've come across. Their creative audience is just what you need if you want to teach others more about your art. Click here to check out my Skillshare classes.

Udemy

Udemy is an online learning platform where there are many different courses. From creative courses like learning to illustrate to business courses for example around marketing. There is something for everyone here. Here you can find the link to the platform.

iPad Pro

The iPad Pro is part of my basic equipment. It opens up so many great possibilities in the field of digital art that I no longer want to do without it. My iPad Pro is already older, but at some point I'll have to get a new one. Looking forward to it.

Apple Pencil

The Apple Pencil is essential for working smoothly with the iPad in ProCreate. It's a great tool that you can update with all sorts of exciting brushes. I love how the pencil glides across the tablet, it feels similar to real drawing.

Crayon Sleeve for Apple Pencil

I gave my Apple Pencil a special outfit and put these stickers on it. So it looks like I'm drawing with a Crayon pen. How cool is that, please? You can buy it here on Etsy.

Procreate App for the iPad Pro

Procreate is the app for you if you want to get artistic. You can experiment with different brushes and design some great works of art. A must-have for every creative person. Check it out here.

Brushes by Lisa Bardot

I discovered my favorite midcentury brushes for illustrating here at Bardot Brushes. I'm also a huge fan of the warm-hearted Lisa Bardot, she has a great YouTube channel where you can learn to draw. Have a look at her YouTube channel here.

Pack & Smooch iPad Cases

The Pack & Smooch iPad cases are a bit more expensive, but definitely worth the money. Mine has lasted for decades and I can't imagine storing my expensive iPad anywhere else. You can buy the Pack & Smooch Case here.

Canvas Lamp

This Canvas Lamp with a weighted base is perfect for flatlay photography and filming because it provides stable, adjustable lighting without tipping over. I’ve tried others, but this one is the best—now that I have it, I absolutely love it!

Tablet & Smartphone Tripod

This tripod is great for shooting YouTube videos and online classes. You can use your iPad as a teleprompter (I use this Teleprompter app for that) and film the scene with the iPad at the same time. It looks very natural because the teleprompter app is running and you are looking directly into the camera. Alternatively, I use it with my smartphone to film social media content. Buy it here on Amazon.

Canva App

Canva is my favorite design app. Of course, I also work in Adobe, but I have to say Canva is catching up fast. Canva's user interface is more intuitive than Adobe's and I've been able to implement most of my design ideas in Canva without any problems. I am also a Canva Creator, which means I design templates for them. Check out Canva and my portfolio here.

Adobe Illustrator

Illustrator is a vector-based drawing program, which means that individual points together make a whole work of art. The advantage of vectors is that you can print out as large as you want, which is perfect for posters, etc. I prefer Illustrator for my vector work. Check out the software here. 

Yours, Marie