How to Create SVG Icons for Mobile Apps
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Icons are among the most essential elements in mobile app design since they are a simple and effective way to improve user experience and usability. Due to the increasing need for responsive and scalable graphics, SVG or Scalable Vector Graphics have been adopted to create icons for mobile applications. SVGs have many benefits that combine scalability with simplicity; the files are small, and it is possible to modify them quickly – a perfect fit for mobile applications. This blog post is a step-by-step tutorial explaining how to create stunning SVG icons for mobile applications, starting with the basics of SVG and ending with the choice of tools and tips for icon design and implementation.
Why is it Better to Use SVG for Mobile App Icons?
SVGs are known to be scalable without any quality degradation, which is especially applicable in mobile apps. Since mobile devices are available in different sizes and resolutions, it becomes necessary to have icons that are as flexible as possible. SVG files are different from raster images, which are usually blurred when enlarged; at the same time, SVG files are evident both on low-definition and high-definition devices.
The other advantage of using SVGs is their small file size. SVGs are usually smaller than the raster images because they are vector-based, which reduces the photos' load time and enhances the application's performance. Moreover, SVGs are fully customisable, which means that icons’ colours, shapes, and even animation are easily changeable, so SVG icons are ideal for dynamic mobile app interfaces.
Tools for Creating SVG Icons
To create high-quality SVG icons, you'll need the right tools. Here are some of the most popular options:
Illustrator is a professional vector graphics editor that provides the user with a rich set of tools for creating complex icons. This gives it a great advantage of flexibility and versatility since even the smallest detail in the design can be changed to suit a designer's preference, making it the most popular software among professional designers.
Thus, Inkscape is a free, open-source vector editor with powerful tools and features available to its users. It may not be as feature-rich as Adobe Illustrator, but it is one of the best SVG icon creation tools, especially for those with a limited budget.
Used frequently by UI/UX designers, Sketch is a macOS application tool for creating vector graphics. It is user-friendly and has tools and functionalities designed especially for icons and UI design, which is why many designers prefer it.
Figma is an online graphic design tool that is collaborative and thus suitable for use in mobile application development. Figma has simple tools for vector editing, and the possibility of sharing and editing the designs is an advantage compared to other tools.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating SVG Icons
- Plan Your Icon Design
- Design the Icon in a Vector Tool
- Optimise and Export the SVG
Conclusion
SVG icons are very important in mobile app design because they are scalable, flexible, and efficient. The steps and guidelines presented here will help you produce efficient icons that improve the user experience when using this guide to design SVG icons. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, it is recommended to try different SVG icons, as they will help improve your projects and give you an excellent and smooth appearance.