12 Jun, 2025
Graphic Design Tools For Beginners To Use In 2025
Design Tools • Jayshree Ochwani • 15 Mins reading time
In today’s digital-first world, visuals speak louder than words, and having the right tools can make all the difference. For beginners stepping into the creative space, navigating the vast landscape of design software can be overwhelming.
2025 offers an exciting range of graphic design tools for beginners that are powerful, intuitive, and in many cases, completely free.
Whether you’re looking to create social media posts, marketing materials, presentations, or brand assets, the right software can help you turn ideas into stunning visuals.
From browser-based editors to full-featured vector tools, this Design Journal article brings an impressive lineup of solutions tailored for entry-level designers.
The role of graphic designing
Graphic design is no longer limited to static posters or website banners. In 2025, it’s a dynamic and multi-dimensional field that plays a central role in digital communication, branding, user experience, and even storytelling.
Whether it’s a startup launching its brand, a creator building a YouTube thumbnail, or a nonprofit designing an infographic, visual design is the common language connecting ideas to audiences.
As visual content becomes more integrated across platforms—from mobile apps to augmented reality—designers are expected to create not just “good-looking” work but also functional, user-focused experiences.
For beginners, this means the demand for easy-to-learn, feature-rich, and affordable tools is higher than ever.
Luckily, many of the graphic design tools available to beginners today are also among the best in the industry, offering professional-grade results without the steep learning curve or high cost.
Whether you prefer to work with drag-and-drop interfaces or want to explore the world of vectors and layers, there’s a growing list of graphic design tools free of charge that can help you learn and grow in the field, without compromising on quality or creativity.
18 graphic design tools for beginners
Whether you’re working on branding, social media posts, or digital illustrations, the following list includes some of the best graphic design tools for beginners available in 2025.
1. PhotoDirector Essential
PhotoDirector Essential is an ideal mix of photo editing and graphic design functionality.
Perfect for beginners, it offers AI-powered tools that make editing quick, intuitive, and enjoyable. From background removal to animation features, it’s a robust option that doesn’t overwhelm.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Easy one-click enhancements
- Animated overlays and stickers
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Free version available
Download PhotoDirector Essential for free
2. MyEdit
MyEdit is an all-in-one online design and audio editing platform. It provides basic visual editing tools with AI support, making it great for creating social media visuals or light branding work.
Highlights:
- Online, no installation needed
- AI background remover
- Text overlays and cropping tools
- Integrated voice editing
3. VistaCreate
VistaCreate, formerly Crello, is a template-based design tool built for speed and simplicity.
Its drag-and-drop features make it one of the best graphic design tools for beginners working on social content, ads, or digital banners.
Features:
- 100,000+ design templates
- Animation capabilities
- Pre-set sizes for platforms
- Free and pro plans available
Start designing with VistaCreate
4. Stencil
If you’re a marketer or blogger needing quick, professional-looking visuals, Stencil is the tool for you. Its simplicity and stock library make it a time-saving gem.
Notable features:
- 5M+ royalty-free photos
- Ready-made quote templates
- Easy resizing for different platforms
5. Snappa
Snappa makes it easy to create stunning graphics for digital platforms. It’s perfect for those who want to skip complicated workflows and get straight to publishing.
Perks:
- Social media presets
- Drag-and-drop interface
- Access to stock photos
6. Figma
More than a UI/UX design tool, Figma has become a go-to for graphic designers seeking real-time collaboration and browser-based editing.
Key benefits:
- Vector-based design
- Team collaboration
- Plugin marketplace
- Free for individual use
Create your first project with Figma
7. Inkscape
Inkscape is an open-source vector editor with professional-grade features. It’s powerful, versatile, and completely free, making it a top pick for anyone looking to explore vector design.
Why beginners love it:
- SVG format support
- Custom brushes and extensions
- Precise path and node editing
8. GIMP
Often referred to as the free version of Photoshop, GIMP is an advanced raster graphic design tool for beginners who want to experiment without cost.
Features:
- Layer support
- Custom filters and plugins
- Color correction and retouching
9. ClipStudio Paint
Designed for illustrators, comic artists, and animators, ClipStudio Paint blends raster and vector tools with advanced brush settings.
Why it stands out:
- Frame-by-frame animation
- Pressure-sensitive brushes
- Tools for manga and comics
10. Krita
Krita is an open-source and free graphic design software, ideal for digital illustrators and concept artists. It combines artistic freedom with an interface built for beginners.
Standout features:
- 100+ brush presets
- Wrap-around mode
- Advanced brush stabilizers
11. Canva
A global favorite, Canva is arguably the most accessible graphic design tool for beginners. Its intuitive interface and thousands of templates make designing incredibly fast and simple.
Best features:
- Drag-and-drop editor
- Team collaboration
- Pre-set sizes for any platform
- Animated elements and graphics
12. Vectr
Vectr is a free vector graphics software that works online and offline. It’s basic enough for beginners and great for logos, icons, and diagrams.
Why try it:
- Real-time collaboration
- Clean, simple UI
- No steep learning curve
13. DesignWizard
DesignWizard offers a variety of ready-made templates, making it ideal for business owners and marketers with limited design experience.
Key highlights:
- Custom color palettes
- Integrated stock images
- Export for social and print
Start designing with DesignWizard
14. CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW is a professional vector design suite that’s become more beginner-accessible over time. With AI-powered tools, it’s now easier than ever to learn the ropes.
What you get:
- Smart drawing tools
- Layout and typography features
- Web and print design support
15. Adobe Express
Simplified for speed, Adobe Express lets you create beautiful designs using the power of Adobe’s ecosystem—without needing deep technical knowledge.
Why it’s perfect for starters:
- Adobe Stock integration
- Social media templates
- Quick resize and animation tools
16. Affinity Designer
If you’re ready to transition from beginner to intermediate, Affinity Designer is a great one-time purchase graphic design tool for beginners that covers both raster and vector workflows.
Top features:
- Dual workspace (pixel/vector)
- Advanced grids and snapping
- Real-time performance preview
17. Visme
Visme focuses on visual communication, making it an excellent choice for infographics, reports, and branded content. It blends design with storytelling.
Why use Visme:
- Presentation-ready templates
- Interactive charts and maps
- Brand kit options
18. PicMonkey
Great for photo-based designs, PicMonkey’s graphic design tool enables you to edit, touch up, and enhance visuals with ease. It’s perfect for social posts, invites, and quick flyers.
What it offers:
- Photo editing and retouching
- Cloud storage
- Collage and template creation
How to choose the best graphic design tool for beginners?
With so many options available, here are some key factors to help you identify the best graphic design tools for beginners that match your needs.
Understand your design goals
Start by identifying what you’ll be designing. Is it social media content, digital illustrations, logos, or presentations? For instance:
- If you’re focused on social media posts, tools like Canva, VistaCreate, and Snappa are ideal.
- For vector-based design, go for Inkscape, Vectr, or Figma.
- Interested in digital art or illustration? Krita and ClipStudio offer robust brush and layering features.
Matching the tool to your end goal ensures you don’t overcomplicate your design process as a beginner.
Look for user-friendly interfaces
When exploring graphic design tools for beginners, ease of use should be a top priority. Tools like Canva, Adobe Express, and PicMonkey are built with intuitive drag-and-drop functionality.
These platforms reduce the learning curve, allowing you to focus on creativity rather than technicalities.
If you’re just getting started, avoid tools with a steep learning curve—like advanced 3D or CAD design software—and stick to the best graphic design software free of unnecessary complexity.
Evaluate feature sets
Beginner-friendly doesn’t mean basic. Even if you’re new to design, look for features like:
- Pre-built templates
- Font and color libraries
- Image/background removers
- Animation support
- Layer and export options
Free tools such as GIMP, PhotoDirector Essential, and Figma provide surprisingly advanced capabilities, making them powerful yet accessible choices for newcomers.
Check collaboration and cloud support
In 2025, many creators will work in teams or need cloud-based flexibility. Platforms like Figma, VistaCreate, and Adobe Express allow real-time collaboration, which is gr
eat for student projects, design teams, or remote freelancers.
If collaboration is important to you, prioritize tools that support cloud syncing, commenting, and shared workspaces.
Consider cost and scalability
Many excellent graphic design tools are available for free, which is great for learning and experimentation. But if you plan to scale or go professional later, look for tools that grow with you.
For example:
- Canva and Figma offer solid free plans, with paid upgrades as your needs expand.
- Affinity Designer and CorelDRAW are one-time purchases, ideal for those who prefer to avoid subscriptions.
- GIMP, Inkscape, and Krita are fully free and open-source, making them perfect for long-term use with no hidden costs.
Choosing the best graphic design software under budget pressure gives you room to learn without commitment.
Platform compatibility
Ensure your design tool is compatible with your device. Many tools offer:
- Web-based access (Figma, VistaCreate, MyEdit)
- Cross-platform support for Windows, Mac, and Linux (Inkscape, GIMP, Krita)
- Mobile-friendly apps (Canva, Adobe Express, PicMonkey)
If you’re often on the go or switch devices frequently, cloud-based platforms might be your best bet.
Check learning resources
Learning curves become easier when help is just a click away. Look for tools that come with:
- Free design courses and tutorials
- Video guides and blog posts
- Active user forums or communities
For example, GIMP and Figma have large, active communities sharing tips, free templates, and plugins—which makes them highly recommended graphic design tools for beginners.
Test before you commit
Most tools offer a free trial or freemium version, so take advantage of that. Test how comfortable you feel navigating the interface, importing assets, using design elements, and exporting files.
If a tool feels intuitive and helps you express your ideas without confusion, you’ve likely found one of the best graphic design tools for your journey.
Graphic design trends that we will see in 2025
As a beginner, keeping an eye on trends helps you stay relevant. In 2025, here are a few directions graphic design is heading:
AI-integrated design workflows
AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s becoming a powerful creative assistant.
Expect to see graphic design tools, free and paid, offering more AI-powered suggestions, automatic layout enhancements, and instant content generation.
Platforms like PhotoDirector Essential, Adobe Express, and MyEdit are already leveraging AI to help beginners work more efficiently and quickly.
Minimalism with depth
Flat design isn’t going away, but in 2025, it’s getting a makeover. Expect minimalist aesthetics enhanced with shadows, gradients, and glass-like textures to add visual richness.
Tools like Figma, Affinity Designer, and Canva are perfect for experimenting with these layered, sleek styles.
Kinetic typography and animated graphics
Text that moves, bends, or pulses is everywhere now—from web banners to Instagram Reels.
Motion design is no longer reserved for professionals; even beginner-friendly graphic design tools like VistaCreate, Snappa, and Adobe Express offer animated templates and transitions to bring your typography to life.
3D and mixed media design
The boundaries between digital and physical textures are becoming increasingly blurred. Expect to see more 3D illustrations, hand-drawn overlays, and mixed visual styles in modern branding and advertising.
Beginners can explore this using ClipStudio Paint or Krita, both of which support stylus input and high-detail brushes.
Inclusive and accessible design
Designs in 2025 are becoming more inclusive, embracing different languages, cultures, and accessibility standards.
Best graphic design tools, such as Figma and Adobe Express, are integrating accessibility features to help ensure that your visuals reach everyone.
Mobile-first design
With the rise of mobile browsing and social content, mobile-first design is a necessity, not a luxury.
Apps like Canva, PicMonkey, and Adobe Express are adapting quickly, offering powerful graphic design tools for free or at a freemium price for mobile creators.
Keeping up with trends doesn’t mean following every new idea blindly—it means understanding how the design world is shifting and using the best graphic design software, free or paid, to adapt your style in ways that connect with your audience.
Conclusion
In 2025, graphic design is more accessible, intuitive, and empowering than ever before. Whether you’re creating your first Instagram post or your hundredth website banner, there’s a tool tailored to your creative needs and skill level.
Choosing from the best graphic design tools for beginners isn’t about finding the flashiest software—it’s about discovering the platform that makes you feel confident in your creativity.
You don’t need a design degree or a big budget to get started. With the right tools and a little exploration, you’ll be crafting professional-looking visuals in no time.
Frequently asked questions
What tools do graphic designers use?
Graphic designers use a wide range of tools depending on their work style and project type. Common tools include:
- Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for advanced design tasks
- Figma and Affinity Designer for vector work and UI design
- Canva, VistaCreate, and Snappa for quick, template-based visuals
- GIMP, Inkscape, and Krita as powerful graphic design tools free of cost
Which software is best for graphic design for beginners?
For beginners, the best graphic design software, free or with freemium models includes:
- Canva – Intuitive drag-and-drop platform with thousands of templates
- Figma – Browser-based, great for vector work and collaboration
- Adobe Express – Simplified version of Adobe tools with strong branding features
- GIMP – Free and open-source alternative to Photoshop
- PhotoDirector Essential – Beginner-friendly with AI features
What are 7 types of graphic design?
Graphic design is a diverse field, and here are seven key types:
- Branding & Visual Identity Design – Logos, brand colors, typography
- Marketing & Advertising Design – Social media graphics, posters, flyers
- Web & UI Design – Layouts for websites and mobile apps
- Packaging Design – Labels, product packaging, boxes
- Motion Graphics Design – Animated text, explainer videos
- Publication Design – Magazines, eBooks, brochures
- Environmental Design – Signage, murals, exhibitions
How to start graphic designing for beginners?
Starting as a beginner is easier than ever in 2025. Here’s how:
- Pick beginner-friendly tools – Start with free tools like Canva, Figma, or GIMP
- Take online tutorials – YouTube, Coursera, or platforms like Skillshare offer guided lessons
- Practice with templates – Use ready-made designs and modify them to learn structure and layout
- Study design principles – Understand color theory, typography, spacing, and visual hierarchy
- Build a portfolio – Use tools like Adobe Express or VistaCreate to showcase your work
Jayshree Ochwani
Content Strategist
Jayshree Ochwani, a content strategist has an keen eye for detail. She excels at developing content that resonates with audience & drive meaningful engagement.
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