Why Animators Love Pencil2D Software
There has never been a better time to become an animator. Don't believe it? Well, you should—there are plenty of programs that can help you immensely. One such program is Pencil2D.
Here, we'll introduce you to some facts, features, and tutorials for Pencil2D to set your 2D animation career on the right path. But first, let's start with what Pencil2D is.
What is Pencil2D?
Pencil2D is an open-source 2D animation program. For those unaware, open-source means free. Pencil2D is an ideal resource for anyone wanting to learn 2D animation without financial cost. Open-source art programs like GIMP and Pencil2D have made creating with simple tools a ton of fun.
Pencil2D software uses the GNU General Public License. This means Pencil2D is completely open, free, and ready for modification. Developer Matthew Chang and his team took the source code from an earlier project called Pencil and created what is now known as Pencil2D.
For over 15 years, Pencil2D has kept pace with the times, updating the software, user interface, and capabilities to give amateur animators the power to create impressive 2D animations. It is cross-platform software available for virtually any operating system.
Features
Below are some features of Pencil2D:
- Animation
- Video support
- Open source (FREE)
- Detailed color wheel
- Customizable templates
- Dynamic zoom in/out
- Pop-up color palette
- And other features found in similar programs, such as smearing, blurring, various image effects.
Installing Pencil
So now that you know Pencil2D is a fairly detailed and reliable tool for animators of all skill levels, let's install it.
The first thing to do is go to the official Pencil2D website. At the top of the screen, there will be a "Download" button. Simply select your operating system.
As we mentioned, this program works on multiple operating systems such as Linux, Ubuntu, Flatpak, and Homebrew Cask.
Next, you need to unzip the files in the downloaded folder. Follow the additional instructions, and you'll be all set.
The download page even has a handy troubleshooting section if you run into issues.
Right on the first page, there is a detailed guide to installing the software. This is great because installing programs (especially ones you're not familiar with) can be quite tricky. The Pencil2D team saved you that headache.
Reviews
So, Pencil2D has been around for a while and has some useful artistic features. But that doesn't mean it's perfect. So what are people saying about Pencil2D? Is it worth downloading, practicing, and using? So far, the verdict is: definitely.
Artists consistently praise its fantastic user interface, ease of use, and versatility.
Even those who weren't thrilled with the program noted its ease of use.
Now it's time for tutorials. Of course, you could jump right in and explore the user interface and various tools on your own. But that can be quite tedious. Let's see what others are doing to help you master Pencil2D.
Official Pencil2D Website
It's always helpful to check the official website of any software you download. You get first-hand information about the program or product directly from the developers.
On this site, you'll find a wealth of resources, particularly tutorials for Pencil2D. There are both specific Pencil2D tutorials for particular actions and more general videos to help you learn the entire workflow.
WikiHow on Animating with Pencil2D
Like Wikipedia, WikiHow is packed with useful step-by-step instructions for almost anything.
Want to know how to top up your car's coolant? How to milk a cow? Or how to give CPR? It's all on this unique site.
Including Pencil2D. WikiHow's step-by-step guide with pictures is perfect for visual learners.
Conclusion
So, is Pencil2D worth it? Absolutely.
If you're just starting out in animation, downloading Pencil2D is exactly what you need. While everyone has their favorite animation program, Pencil2D is a solid starting point.