Macromedia FreeHand - Logo Creation

Overview

Macromedia FreeHand MX, a vector graphics software, was widely recognized for its design and illustration capabilities. Although discontinued in 2003, it remains notable for its versatile creative tools. This README provides insights into FreeHand's menu, toolbar, and a step-by-step guide to creating a logo.

FreeHand Menu

1. File Menu:

   • Manages files, including create, open, save, export, and printing options.

2. Edit Menu:

   • Basic editing functions such as undo, redo, cut, copy, paste, delete, and search.

3. View Menu:

   • Customizes the workspace with zoom, grid, rulers, and panel visibility options.

4. Modify Menu:

   • Advanced object manipulation, combining paths, and converting objects.

5. Text Menu:

   • Access text-related tools for creating, formatting, and converting text.

6. Xtras Menu:

   • Additional plugins or extensions for extra functionality.

7. Window Menu:

   • Manages layout, visibility, and access features for an efficient workspace.

8. Help Menu:

   • Accesses documentation and software version information.

FreeHand Toolbar

1. Pointer Tool:

   • Select, move, and resize objects.

2. Subselect Tool:

   • Fine-tune object shapes by selecting individual anchor points and control handles.

3. Page Tool:

   • Select and manipulate individual pages within multi-page documents.

4. Lasso Tool:

   • Make a freeform selection around objects for grouping or manipulation.

5. Output Area:

   • Represents the area outside the printable region, managing print settings, margins, and layout.

6. Eyedropper Tool:

   • Sample colors from existing objects and apply them to other objects for color consistency.

7. Pen Tool:

   • Create custom vector paths by adding anchor points and adjusting control handles.

8. Text Tool:

   • Create and edit text, activating a text area for typing and formatting.

9. Line Tool:

   • Draw straight lines and arrows with adjustable thickness, style, and endpoints.

10. Pencil Tool:

    • Draw freehand lines and shapes based on mouse or stylus movements.

11. Ellipse Tool:

    • Draw circles and ellipses with adjustable dimensions.

12. Rectangle Tool:

    • Draw squares and rectangles, adjusting dimensions and rounding corners.

13. Scale Tool:

    • Resize objects proportionally or non-proportionally.

14. Freeform Tool:

    • Distort and reshape objects creatively.

15. Eraser Tool:

    • Remove parts of a path or object.

16. Knife Tool:

    • Cut objects into segments for individual editing.

Steps to Create a Logo in FreeHand

1. Use the circle tool to draw a circle.

2. Copy the circle, placing two circles on top of each other.

3. Draw a larger circle that encircles the smaller ones.

4. Use the pen tool to create two triangles as required.

5. Find an icon or a picture of a book and place the book.

6. Center the book at the logo's center, ensuring a cohesive look.

7. Click on the file menu to save or export the logo in your preferred format.