Published on 31 July 2023 7 min read

Use the Brush Tool to create dynamic shapes
How to add texture with the Brush Tool
Why layering matters in logo design
Add depth with color and opacity
How to save and export your logo

Creating a logo that stands out is no small feat, but with the right tools, you can make your vision a reality. Canva, a popular online design tool, can help you do just that — and it's easier than you might think. Specifically, Canva's Brush Tool is a game-changer in logo creation. This blog will show you how to use the brush in Canva for logo creation, with practical tips and tricks that you can apply right away. So, let's get started!

Use the Brush Tool to create dynamic shapes

One of the first steps in creating an eye-catching logo is to master the use of shapes. The Brush Tool in Canva can help you do just that. It's not just for adding strokes or texture — you can use it to create dynamic shapes that can make your logo pop.

Choosing the Right Brush

Canva offers a variety of brushes for you to choose from, so it's important to pick one that aligns with the style of your logo. Each brush has a unique look and feel, so take some time to experiment with different options. Remember, you're not limited to one brush — you can mix and match to create a diverse range of shapes.

Creating Shapes with the Brush Tool

Now that you have your brush selected, it's time to start creating shapes. Here's how:

Select the Brush Tool from the toolbar.
Click and drag your cursor to draw your shape. Don't worry about getting it perfect on the first try — you can always undo and redo your strokes.
Experiment with different brush sizes and pressures. A heavier pressure will result in a thicker stroke, while lighter pressure will result in a thinner one.

Remember, the key is to let your creativity flow and not be afraid to experiment. The more you play around with the Brush Tool, the more comfortable you'll become — and the more unique and dynamic your shapes will be!

Manipulating Shapes

Once you've drawn your shapes, you can further tweak them to fit your design. You can easily resize, rotate, and move shapes around to get the perfect look. Plus, if you want to make changes to the shape's outline, you can do so by adjusting the brush's width and transparency.

By learning how to use the brush in Canva for logo creation — specifically for creating dynamic shapes — you can take your logo design to the next level. So, go ahead and start playing around with those brushes!

How to add texture with the Brush Tool

Texture can add depth and interest to your logo design. Think of it as the secret sauce that gives your logo its unique flavor. In this section, we'll explore how to use the Brush Tool in Canva to add texture to your logo. Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the details!

Understanding Texture

Texture refers to the perceived surface quality of your design. In the digital world, it's a visual trick that gives a sense of a tactile sensation. It can make your logo seem like it's made of wood, metal, fabric or any other material you can think of. So, how do you create this illusion? That's where the Brush Tool comes in.

Choosing the Right Brush for Texture

Canva has an array of brushes that you can use to add texture to your logo. Some brushes are rough, some are smooth, and others are somewhere in between. It all comes down to what kind of texture you want to achieve. For a grungy look, you might choose a brush with a rough edge. For a more sophisticated look, a smooth brush may be the way to go.

Adding Texture with the Brush Tool

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: adding texture to your logo. Here's how:

Select the Brush Tool and choose a brush that suits your desired texture.
Start by lightly brushing over your design. This will give you a base layer of texture.
Add more layers of brush strokes, varying the pressure, size and direction of your strokes. This will give your texture more depth and complexity.

Remember, when it comes to texture, less is often more. You don't want to overwhelm your design with too much texture — it should enhance your logo, not distract from it.

Experimenting with Color and Opacity

Color and opacity play a huge role in creating texture. By adjusting these settings, you can create different effects and moods. Darker colors and lower opacity can give a subtle, sophisticated texture, while brighter colors and higher opacity can create a bold, eye-catching effect.

Adding texture to your logo using the Brush Tool in Canva might seem daunting at first, but with a bit of practice, you'll soon get the hang of it. So, don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and start experimenting!

Why Layering Matters in Logo Design

Ever wondered why some logos just seem to pop and command your attention? The secret is layering. Not the onion kind, but the digital design kind. In this section, we're going to explore why layering is important in logo design, especially when you're using tools like Canva's Brush Tool.

The Magic of Layers

Layers in a logo design are like the layers of a cake - each one adds a different element, but they all come together to create a cohesive whole. Layers can add depth to your logo, making it more dynamic and visually appealing. They can help separate different parts of your logo, making it easier for the viewer to process.

How Layers Work with the Brush Tool

When you're using the Brush Tool in Canva, you're essentially adding a new layer every time you make a stroke. This allows you to build up texture, color, and details gradually, giving you more control over the final look of your logo. It's like being an artist, but instead of paint, you're using pixels.

Creating Depth with Layers

One of the key benefits of using layers in your logo design is the ability to create a sense of depth. By placing some elements of your logo on different layers, you can create a 3D effect that makes your logo more engaging. Here's a simple way to do it:

Start with your base layer. This will usually be your main logo shape or text.
Add a new layer and use the Brush Tool to add some shading or texture. This will give the illusion of depth.
Add another layer for any additional details or embellishments.

Remember, balance is key when layering. Overdoing it can make your logo look cluttered and confusing, so it's important to know when to stop.

Organizing Your Layers

Keeping your layers organized can make your logo design process smoother and more efficient. You can easily move, edit, or delete individual layers without affecting the rest of your design. Plus, it's easier to experiment with different looks when you can quickly toggle layers on and off.

Layering might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in your logo design. So, don't underestimate the power of layers — they might just be the secret ingredient that takes your logo from good to great!

Add Depth with Color and Opacity

Let's talk about color and opacity, shall we? Both are like secret weapons when it comes to giving your logo that extra 'oomph'. So, how to use brush in Canva for logo creation with color and opacity? Let's dive right in.

Color it Up

Color breathes life into designs. It's a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, convey messages, and set the mood. By using the Brush Tool in Canva, you can apply different color strokes to your logo. But remember, the key isn't to transform your design into a rainbow explosion, but to use colors strategically.

Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel. They create high contrast and a vibrant look.
Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel. They create harmony and a cohesive look.
Monochromatic Colors: Different shades of the same color. They create a subtle and sophisticated look.

Pick a color scheme that aligns with your brand's personality and message. And remember, consistency is key!

Playing with Opacity

Opacity controls how transparent or opaque a layer is. It's like the ghost mode of the design world. Playing with opacity can add a sense of depth and complexity to your logo. Here's how you can do it:

Select the layer you want to adjust.
Go to the transparency slider in Canva.
Slide to adjust the opacity. Lower values make the layer more transparent while higher values make it more opaque.

Remember, layers with lower opacity will blend with layers underneath, creating a unique mix of colors and textures. So, feel free to experiment and see what works best for your design.

Bringing it All Together

Color and opacity are more than just aesthetic choices. They're tools that can help you create a logo that stands out and communicates your brand's personality. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations and see what works best for your design. And remember, the Brush Tool in Canva is your friend in this creative journey.

How to Save and Export Your Logo

Now that you've created a stunning logo using the brush tool in Canva, the next step is to save and export it. This might seem like the easy part, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure your logo looks as good on screen as it does in Canva. Ready to find out how?

Choosing the Right File Format

When saving your logo, you'll notice Canva offers several file formats like JPEG, PNG, and PDF. Each has its strengths, but for logo designs, PNG is your best bet. Why? Here's why:

High Quality: PNG maintains high quality even when compressed.
Transparency: Unlike JPEG, PNG supports transparent backgrounds. This is a big deal for logos as it allows them to blend seamlessly with different backgrounds.

So, when it comes to how to use brush in Canva for logo creation and saving, PNG should be your go-to format.

Exporting Your Logo

Exporting your logo is as easy as a few clicks:

Click on the 'Download' button at the top right corner of your Canva page.
Select PNG as your file format.
Click on the 'Download' button again. Your logo will be saved on your device.

And there you have it! Your logo, ready to make its debut in the world.

Final Thoughts

Saving and exporting might seem like minor steps in the grand scheme of logo creation. But they're crucial in making sure your hard work pays off and your logo looks its best wherever it goes. So, don't skip over these steps in your rush to share your logo with the world. Remember, good things take time. And great logos? They take a little extra.

If you found these Canva brush tool tips helpful for logo creation and want to expand your knowledge on logos and branding, be sure to check out the workshop 'Beginners Guide to Logos and Branding' by George Dyson. This workshop will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of logo design and branding, making you better equipped to create a memorable and impactful brand for your business.