As intimidating as it may seem, the ever-growing competition in the web design field does not automatically imply the lack of chances for beginners. In a job marketplace as vast and diverse as the design one, there is always need for innovators and creative thinkers. The industry pays well and now it is just setting off, so learning to become a web designer is one of the safest career paths. On the one hand, it is safe because there is huge demand for it and this demand will not fade away any time soon. On the other hand, it can offer you a certain amount of independence, in the sense that you don’t have to depend on a company in order to work. Freelance web designers can earn a lot of money and collaborate with local or foreign clients, while at the same time making their own schedule, choosing their own projects and developing their skills at their own rhythm. Freelancers have to be diligent and up to date with the latest news, but, fortunately, this is easier to do that in was in the past, because you no longer have to learn from books or even go to university. As long as you have an eye for aesthetics, the patience to learn to use some software and the right resources, you can become a designer, even if you don’t have a degree. Besides, with the enormous amount of online freebies, anyone can get the right tools for learning.

Online tutorials – whether you’re a newbie or an expert, you need your source of accurate tutorials. Unlike many other jobs, the job of a web designer is one where you never stop learning. New techniques and trends come out every couple of years and you need to master them in order to provide quality services. As a newcomer, you will need tutorials to learn how to use software and tools such as Photoshop, Firebug or Illustrator.

Templates – templates are a great way of saving time, money and resources as a web designer. The best templates out there are the premium ones and these can cost a lot of money, but you can start with free PSD templates and then invest in premium ones as you start getting clients and making money.

Icon sets – icons have always played an important role in web design, but now, when most websites are minimal, they can completely change the user experience. Depending on the type of website or app design, you will need to use different icons, which is why you should find a larger website with free and paid icons.

Fonts – from clean and simple fonts, to intricate calligraphy or gothic letters, fonts are essential for designers, which is why new ones come out every week. Apart from large online font archives, you should also follow design blogs to stay to up to date with the latest trends and fins out about new fonts as soon as they hit the market.

These are some of the most important resources in a designer’s arsenal, but definitely not the only ones. The more you advance in your profession, there more you will need, so make sure you learn to spot bargains and take advantage of online freebies as much as you can.

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