Create Your Own Emoji A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Learn About Artist Yue Minjun
Yue Minjun is a Chinese contemporary artist. His work is characterized as Cynical Realism where he incorporates many emoticon-like faces.
Click the button below to learn more about the artist
2. Select an Editing Platform
Possible Programs to Use:
- Photoshop
- Gimp (Web Based)
- Pixlr (Web Based)
- Sumo Paint (Web Based)
3. Teach Your Students to Use the Following Tools
A basic understanding of the following tools is needed to create an emoji:
- Lasso Tool
- Paintbrush
- Magic Wand/Quick Selection
- Mixer Tool
4. Select a Subject
Possible Subject Options:
- Self Portrait
- Celebrity
- Athlete
- Family member
- Teacher
5. Create a Canvas in Your Editing Platform
Work small: Use a no larger than 6in x 6in canvas to create on.
6. Select an Emoji Base
- Choose an emoji base that "looks" most like the chosen subject
- Many students like to create directly over the emoji base to help them guide their design
7. Create in Layers
Remind your students to work in layers so if any mistakes are made they can easily delete or edit. Place each detail in a separate layer
8. Transform & Edit the Emoji
The use of the mixer and brush tool will be very important in this step.
9. Add Details
- Change eye color
- Edit hair shape/color
Don't forget to save the final image as a PNG to enable a transparent background.
9. Use the Emoji on Your Phone
Unfortunately you won't be able to use the emoji like the regular emojis on your phone. However, you can incorporate a small image into your text messaging by using the Imoji App.
To add your custom made emoji to everyday messaging, simply add the Imoji App to your phone's keyboard.
Click the button below to learn more about the Imoji App!