Graphic design has become more accessible, thanks to platforms such as Canva. It allows non-designers the ability to craft designs that are free and with a high level of quality. From social media graphics to website building, you can DIY it quickly and easily. To get you started, here’s how to use Canva for beginners.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Sign Up and Log In

Canva interface

Go to the Canva website by clicking on this link. Create your account using the Sign Up tab in the upper right corner. You can use your email address or any of your social media accounts. Follow the prompts, and log in to your account once you have signed up.

Step 2: Select Your Design Type

Canva interface

Once you log in, you’ll find the Canva homepage. To start your project, follow these steps:

  1. Find the Create a design button in the upper right-hand corner. Click on it to begin the design process.
  2. You’ll find a dropdown menu wherein you’ll select the design type. 
  3. Pick your design subcategory by choosing from the list within that category. 

Step 3: Choose Your Template

Canva interface

Canva has an extensive library of pre-designed templates for various projects. Here’s what you should do:

  • View Categories: Canva’s templates are categorized depending on the design purpose. Click on the category that your project is under.
  • Explore the subcategories: within each category are subcategories you can choose from. 
  • Preview thumbnails: you’ll find many thumbnails or templates within a subcategory. Scan through them to find one that you want to work with.
  • Use the search bar: you can also specify a design or style by using the search bar. Type in what you’re looking for and find the matching templates. Once you find a template, click on it to open it in the Canva editor.
  • Customize the template: you can now start customizing the template to suit your preferences. You can edit every part of the template, such as the colors, texts, images, and more.

Step 4: Customize Your Design

Canva interface

Now that you’re inside the Canva editor and have found a template, you can begin customizing your design. Here’s what to do:

Explore the Canva Editor

  • Left Sidebar: you’ll find a vertical sidebar with options that include Elements, Text, Brand, Uploads, etc. Use these to modify your design.
  • Canvas area: the center part where you’ll create your design.
  • Toolbar: the toolbar at the top offers options for editing your design.

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The Editing Elements

  • Selecting elements: click on an element within the template to select it. This can be an image, a text box, or an icon to select it for editing.
  • Modifying elements: when you select an element, you can modify them using these tools. After clicking on the text box, you can edit it simply by typing. 
  • Moving elements: click on an element to drag or reposition it within the canvas.

How to Add New Elements

  • Access “Elements”: click the Elements tab in the left sidebar.
  • Browse categories: choose from Shapes, Icons, Illustrations, and others.
  • Add elements: click on an element to add it to your design. You can then modify it, reposition it, or customize it.

How to Edit Text

  • Text customization: click on the text box, then delete or modify the text.
  • Text formatting: use the top toolbar to format your text. You can also edit, resize, or change the font colors here.

Step 5: Upload Your Images

Canva interface

You can also use your own images for your design. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Click on “Uploads”: on the left sidebar, access Uploads.
  • Upload your photos: click on Upload files or Record yourself, then choose your images from your device or take a video of yourself.
  • Add the image to your design: drag and drop your uploaded image onto your design. Resize and reposition as needed.

Step 6: Edit and Arrange the Design Elements

Canva interface

Move elements around to find the best layout and edits. The following can help you:

  • Position: drag the elements around until you find the best location.
  • Resize: drag an element by its corner to resize it.
  • Edit: click on an element to access the editing options at the top toolbar.
  • Image edit: adjust filters, brightness, or transparency.
  • Text style: edit the font, size, color, or add effects to the text boxes.
  • Customize shapes: change shape properties, gradients, colors, and more.

Step 7: Preview and Save

Canva interface

Once you are satisfied with your design, you can now preview it. Follow these steps:

  • Preview: click Preview to see your design before finalizing it.
  • Download: click Download if you’re happy with the design.
  • File Type: choose your file type (PNG or PDF).
  • Quality: choose from standard or high-quality.
  • Save: click Download to save your design.

Step 8: Share Your Design

Canva interface

After you finalize your design, it’s time to show it to the world. Click on the Share button and pick your sharing method. You can share it via email, social media, or by generating a link.

Exploring Canva’s Features

Templates

Canva has user-ready templates that are ideal for quickly starting your creative projects. These templates can give your designs a professional look, even if you’re just starting out.

Customizing Your Designs

You can easily personalize your designs by changing fonts, colors, and images to suit your projects. This allows your creations to be distinct and tailored to your specific needs.

Using Canva’s Text Tools

Canva’s diverse font styles, sizes, and effects can enhance your graphics and make your message clear and eye-catching.

Incorporating Canva Elements

You can add depth to your designs with Canva’s massive shapes, icons, and illustrations library. These can help transform a simple design into something truly unique.

Collaboration

Canvas collaborative tools allow you to share and gather feedback in real time, making collaboration with your team members more efficient.

Saving and Exporting

Canva lets you save and export your work in various formats. These ensure your designs are ready for print, web, or social media.

Canva Pro Features

Canva Pro has features that let you do more, such as premium images and editing tools. These upgrades can take your design to the next level.

Final Thoughts

This how to use Canva for beginners guide will help you start designing your graphics quickly and easily. It can be an enjoyable experience as you explore and experiment with colors, fonts, shapes, and many other design elements. However, there’s always Penji to create all your graphic design assets for you.

All you need to do is write your project brief; our talented designers will handle it. Click on this link to watch our demo video, and click here to get the design started.