Creating The MS Word 2019 Logo: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered how the iconic MS Word logo, the one you see every time you open the app, is actually designed? Today, we're diving deep into the process of idrawing and coloring that very logo, specifically the 2019 version. We'll break down each step, making it easy for anyone, from design newbies to seasoned pros, to follow along. So, grab your digital pencils or design software, and let's get started on this fun project. This guide is crafted to be super user-friendly, so you don't need to be a design guru to participate. I’ll make sure to cover all the basics and provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions. We will focus on a clean and modern design that reflects the current trends.

Understanding the MS Word 2019 Logo

Before we start, let's understand the MS Word 2019 logo. The logo is a stylized 'W'. It's instantly recognizable and represents the powerful word processing software. The 2019 version of the logo features a sleek, minimalist design, with a prominent 'W' that is easily identifiable and visually appealing. The colors are typically a shade of blue, that gives off a sense of trustworthiness and professionalism. Understanding the logo's core components – its shape, color, and overall aesthetic – is crucial before we start. This knowledge will guide our design choices and help us replicate the logo accurately.

The 'W' itself is not just a simple letter; it's composed of several intersecting shapes and curves. These create a sense of depth and dimension, making the logo visually engaging. The choice of the blue color is deliberate. Blue is often associated with reliability, security, and professionalism – qualities that align perfectly with the function and reputation of MS Word. The design is deliberately modern, a nod to the evolution of the software, and to keep it relevant to the times. The clean lines and uncluttered design make the logo versatile enough to be used across various platforms, from the app icon to marketing materials. This also highlights the attention to user experience, something that is incredibly important in modern design practices. The subtle gradients and highlights give the logo a polished look, contributing to the professional image of the software.

Tools You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our tools. You'll need access to design software. Here are some options:

  • Adobe Illustrator: This is the industry-standard vector graphics software. It's powerful and versatile but requires a subscription.
  • Inkscape: A free and open-source vector graphics editor. It's a great alternative to Illustrator, especially for beginners.
  • Affinity Designer: A more affordable option, with powerful features and a one-time purchase.
  • Canva: A user-friendly, web-based design tool that is great for beginners and includes some free options. Perfect if you need a quick result.

Choose the software that suits your budget and your skill level. Make sure that you are familiar with the basic functions of your chosen tool, such as creating shapes, using the pen tool, and applying color gradients. For this tutorial, I'll provide instructions that are adaptable to most vector-based software. Also, you will need a color picker tool, to replicate the color code, you can use the built-in color picker in your software or use an online tool or browser extension.

Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing the 'W'

Now, let's get into the main course – drawing the 'W'. The 'W' is composed of several basic shapes, primarily lines and curves. Let's break it down into manageable parts. I’ll make sure to guide you on how to create the basic shape of the 'W', then we’ll refine it to look like the one you see on the application.

  1. Start with the Basic Shape: Begin by sketching the overall shape of the 'W' using the pen tool or the line tool in your software. The 'W' in the MS Word logo is not a simple 'W'; it has a unique, slightly tilted design. It is crucial to have the right angle. When creating the basic shape, imagine it as three connected strokes. These strokes define the core of the 'W', setting the foundation for the final logo. Make the initial lines with the correct proportions. The proportions are very important, as they give the 'W' its recognizable form.

  2. Refine the Angles and Curves: The 'W' isn't made up of straight lines only. It has curves, or softened angles. Use the curve tool or adjust the anchor points with the pen tool to refine the angles and create the curves. Adjust the position of the anchor points, pulling them or pushing them until the shapes become softer. Pay attention to the way the lines connect, ensuring smooth transitions. In some software, the curvature of the lines can be adjusted easily. The balance between straight and curved lines is key to achieving the modern aesthetic of the MS Word logo.

  3. Create Depth and Dimension: The MS Word logo often has a subtle three-dimensional effect. To add this, you can slightly overlap the strokes. This creates the illusion of depth. Experiment with the thickness of the lines and use a slight gradient to simulate light and shadow. The gradient should be subtle to ensure that the design remains sleek and modern.

  4. Vectorize Your Design: Ensure that your design is vectorized, meaning it is composed of vectors rather than pixels. This ensures the logo maintains its quality, no matter the size.

Coloring the Logo

Now for the fun part – coloring! The MS Word logo is known for its blue color, but you need the correct shade. Here's how to apply it and fine-tune it to match the original.

  1. Choose the Right Blue: The blue color of the MS Word logo is a particular shade. Use a color picker tool to identify the exact hex code or RGB values. These values ensure that you get the correct color, which is essential to replicate the logo accurately.

  2. Apply the Color: Fill the 'W' with the chosen color. Make sure all the components are filled with the same color. If you have created overlapping shapes, you might need to adjust their layering to ensure the color is applied correctly.

  3. Add a Gradient (Optional): Many versions of the logo include a subtle gradient to add dimension. If you choose to add a gradient, select a slightly lighter shade of the same blue. Apply the gradient from top to bottom, or in a way that creates a slight shadow effect. This adds a sophisticated touch, making your design stand out. Be careful with this step; the gradient should be subtle to maintain the modern appearance.

  4. Experiment with Effects: Some versions may include slight effects, like highlights or subtle shadows. Experiment with these to give the logo a more polished look. However, keep the effects minimal. The goal is to keep the design clean and modern. Overdoing the effects will make the logo look outdated.

Finalizing Your Design and Troubleshooting

Once you've drawn and colored your 'W,' it's time to finalize your design. The finishing touches can make a significant difference. Here are the final steps and some troubleshooting tips.

  1. Check Proportions and Spacing: Make sure the proportions of your 'W' are correct. Compare your design with the official logo. Check the spacing between the strokes to ensure visual balance. Ensure all the elements are well-aligned. Adjust the kerning of the 'W' if necessary to improve overall aesthetics. These subtle adjustments will make a big difference in the final result.

  2. Refine the Details: Examine the curves, angles, and color gradients. Adjust these details to match the original logo. Spend time on these refinements to achieve a polished look. Making small tweaks can significantly improve the design’s appearance. Consider any final adjustments that bring the logo closer to the original. Ensure all edges are smooth and clean.

  3. Save Your Work: Save your design in a vector format (e.g., SVG, AI, or EPS). Vector formats ensure your logo remains scalable without losing quality. These formats maintain image quality and allow for easy resizing without any pixelation. Make sure to regularly save your work to avoid losing progress.

  4. Troubleshooting: If something doesn't look right, don't worry! Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

  • Incorrect Color: Double-check the color values and apply the correct shade of blue. Make sure the color settings in your software are accurate.
  • Uneven Lines: Use the pen tool to refine the curves and angles of your 'W'. Ensure all the strokes are smooth and consistent. Adjust the anchor points to create seamless connections.
  • Distorted Shape: Review the initial sketches and ensure all proportions are correct. Make any necessary adjustments. The key is to start with the correct measurements and adjust gradually.

Conclusion: You've Created the MS Word Logo!

There you have it, guys! You've successfully idrawn and colored your very own MS Word 2019 logo. This isn't just a design exercise; it's a way to understand the thought process that goes into creating iconic logos. This exercise helps you develop skills and improve your design abilities. This experience provides you with a deeper appreciation for design, even if you are not a designer. You’ve now got a cool logo, and more importantly, some new design skills under your belt. So, keep practicing, experimenting, and exploring the world of design. Maybe try other logos, and let your creativity take flight! Keep learning, keep designing, and have fun! Good luck with your future design adventures!