Updated: September 2022

When I make my graphics, I use multiple different apps/websites to make them and I often switch between them. Especially when I first started I stuck to one app and recently I've branched out and tried some other apps.

#1: PicsArt

Ignore that I actually need to update it. I've had PicsArt downloaded for a while, tried it and then never really used it again (at least for covers) because I didn't understand it. It can be difficult to use if you've never used it before but you won't regret learning! I only really use it for icons and sometimes character aesthetics now.

Difficulty: 7/10 (for new users)

#4: IbisPaint X

Much like PicsArt, it's an app I've had for a while but never really used. I started to use it when I began learning to make vectors and I instantly loved it! Unlike PicsArt, you can have unlimited layers and there's more blending and brush options. You can unlock brushes by watching adverts but you only get them for a limited time but you get them for FREE. There's a lot more filter options and I've found IbisPaint is better for fantasy covers (that may just be how I make them though). It's great for vector covers and if you're an artist as well as a designer, this is the best app for you. You can also put custom fonts and brushes into the app! I prefer IbisPaint to PicsArt now, I find the editing a lot easier and you can rotate the screen while you work, whereas you can't do that on PicsArt.

Difficulty: 2-3/10

Miscellaneous

#1: Phonto

Phonto, as the title suggests, allows you to add text to your photos. There are many fonts that come with the app but you can download fonts as well (more to come about that)! It's incredibly simple to use and you can manipulate the text to pretty much anything! From creating your own colour patterns to blending the text into the background. Again, this was an app I downloaded and never really used. But now I've downloaded fonts, I can't stop using it!

Difficulty: 2/10

#2: Magic Eraser

Again, as the title suggests, it's a background removing app. I've always used this app and I like it. Sometimes you have to physically erase the background instead of just tapping it with the wand tool. Once you have finished, you can choose a transparent background and you can choose a plain coloured one too. I only use it to erase extras on icons now.

Difficulty: 1/10

#3: Remove.bg (website)

This website allows you to upload a photo and it will remove the background for you. It usually does a really good job and you need to do little editing afterwards (the only thing I really do is enhance the png). It does work best with people and images that have very clear foregrounds (ie, the thing you want to turn into a png).

Difficulty: 1/10

#4: Polarr

Polarr is an app that allows you to add filters to your pictures. It gives you a bunch of filters for you to choose from and you can use the slider tool to add more or less of that filter to the picture. You can also download filters for the app too. You can make your own filters and tailor them to individual graphics (one of my favourite routines)!

Difficulty: 1/10

#5: Remini

Remini is an app which allows you to enhance your photos (and do other things but I only use it for enhancing). You insert your photo and it will enhance it then you can download it. It works better with face-claims than anything else. The new update is annoying as you have to watch an ad while it enhances the photo (I believe it always did this) and you have to watch another to download the enhanced photo unless you have the pro version. Overall, it is a good app for me and often works well.

Difficulty: 1/10