The Affinity Suite of design software offers a feature-rich, affordable alternative to creating and printing your digital designs for many projects. Our first recommendation is Affinity Designer, the vector based software and alternative to Adobe Illustrator; our second recommendation is Affinity Photo. A frequently asked question – especially during times where there are big sales like holiday weekends – is what are our favorite resources. We have compiled a list for you and will update it with any new additions we find in our own design journey.
DRAWING TABLETS:
Wacom One Drawing Tablet: https://amzn.to/3AHQNET
Wacom Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet (this is the model I use): https://amzn.to/3AHn12Z
Huion Drawing Tablet: https://amzn.to/3i0ryqE
Make sure to check the computer specs to ensure that these tablets will work with your device. I recommend a drawing table over the iPad all day, everyday. The iPad is convenient but you’ll have more room to grow and better illustration control with a drawing tablet for a lower price.
Hot Tip: Be sure to check out the refurbished options on Wacom’s website especially on big holiday weekends like Black Friday. This is when I got my Wacom and I saved nearly 40% on it.
BRUSHES, ASSETS & MORE
There is not a vast array of creators of brushes, assets and other resources for Affinity Designer which makes shopping a breeze. I purchase from the same creators and love to take advantage of any sales they have going on – especially for Black Friday.
Frankentoon Studio: https://frankentoonstudio.com/marketplace/
Items that I love from Frankentoon include the Concept Master’s Nature Brushes, Comic Book Inks, and Texture Pack Vol. 2. You can’t go wrong with anything that they offer. If photo editing is your jam, there are also several macro sets available for Affinity Photo. Don’t forget to sign up for their weekly freebies sent via email by joining their mailing list.
The Artifex Forge: https://artifexforge.com/
I am a Jeremy junkie. Nearly everything he creates for The Artifex Forge, I purchase. You can get a nice set of freebies by signing up for his mailing list. I have bought brushes that I haven’t even used yet just because I have ideas to use them in my mind and they were on sale. The Tattoo Art Brushes and Vintage Vector Edges are what I use the most. There are so many great options, pick up what works best for your ideas. Check out this video on our YouTube channel using the Stained Glass Creator Kit from The Artifex Forge.
GSeaward Art: https://www.etsy.com/shop/GSeawardArt
Gary is fairly new to the scene in 2022 but is already churning out some great vector brush packs for Affinity Designer. I have purchased the Rope, Chains and Christmas light brush sets.
Nathan Brown Art/ Trailhead Design Co: https://www.designcuts.com/vendor/nathan-brown/
Many of these offerings are not available on Nathan’s personal website for Affinity Designer. You’ll find several brush packs available. My personal favorite is the Master Watercolor Brushes which are part of the Ultimate Watercolor Brush Toolbox now.
Affinity: https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/store/
When you purchase via the Affinity-Serif website, your brushes and assets can be automatically installed when you are logged into your account through the software interface. My favorite offering is the Xenon Brush Pack and the Smoke & Cloud Brush Pack; both work in the pixel persona of Affinity Designer and in Affinity Photo.
If you don’t have the software yet, but sure to snag a license for operation for your Windows, MacOS or iPad device. Not sure where to start? We have a free 10 Minute Affinity Designer: Basics for Beginners Minicourse that features 10, 10-minute or less videos on the bare bones basics to get you started with Affinity Designer. For a more in-depth, all-inclusive look at software that includes one-on-one email support, interactive design challenge and chances to win prizes; check out our Affinity Designer Digital Graphic Design Masterclass (perfect for beginners and those with a little knowledge) and the Advanced Illustration in Affinity Designer Masterclass (not for beginners). All our courses are website hosted and available by going to MY ACCOUNT — COURSES after you sign up.
DIGITAL ASSETS
The only membership I have is with Creative Fabrica. This is where I find all my fonts and digital papers for design purposes. They also have sublimation, SVG and embroidering files available. The membership allows you to have everything included for one easy monthly fee. Sign up with our link to get your first month for $1: http://www.tinyurl.com/createwithcf. Be on the lookout for their annual deal as well to save big!
Happy Shopping!