How to Use the New Canva Interface Update: Glow Up Tutorial

Jacqui Naunton // White Deer
15 Aug 2024

With Canva's 2024 update, navigating its new and improved interface can initially be a daunting task—especially for seasoned users accustomed to the older version. This update promises a brighter, more intuitive design that enhances user experience. If you're ready to dive in and harness the power of this exciting *glow-up*, follow along with my straightforward tutorial!

Introduction

Embarking on the Canva 2024 update might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but it's important to remember that taking the time to familiarise yourself with the new interface will not only improve your design workflow but ultimately allow you to make the most of Canva's robust features. Whether you're a business owner trying to create your branding or a casual user looking for new design tools, this guide will serve as a comprehensive walk-through of the Canva *glow-up*.

Step 1: Navigating the New Dashboard

  • Explore the Enhanced Sidebar: The updated dashboard includes a sleek side panel where you can find your starred designs. Use the star feature to bookmark frequently-used designs for quick access.
  • Opening Designs: To open a design, simply hover over it and choose to open in a new tab to avoid disrupting your current work.

Step 2: Understanding the New Elements and Text Options

  • Lighter and Cleaner Aesthetic: This update has brought a lighter feel to Canva's UI, making it open and inviting.
  • Element Search: Use the search function to easily locate shapes, graphics, photos, or other elements. This remains largely unchanged, aiding seamless transition.
  • Text Features: Add text boxes and utilise the magic writing tool for prompt assistance with specific text requirements.

Step 3: Customising Your Brand Kit

  • Locate the brand kit on the new sidebar. Here, you can manage your logos, fonts, and colour schemes effortlessly. This allows for consistent, branded graphics every time you design.

Step 4: Efficient Use of the New Menus

  • Popup Menus: Notice the new popup menus that appear based on selected elements, such as text. This contextual menu system enhances workflow by keeping relevant options handy.
  • Accessing Comprehensive Options: If some options aren't readily visible in the popup, click the 'See All' button to explore a full range of adjustments.
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Step 5: Advanced Design Tools

  • Corner Rounding and Border Styles: Experiment with the new corner rounding and border options for shapes and images to add a neat finish to your designs.
  • Background Removal and Adjustments: For images, easily access background removal and other effects from the contextual menu, simplifying complex edits.

Step 6: Introducing the Magic Grab Tool

  • Precision Selection: This powerful tool allows for selecting specific parts of an image, removing them and replacing backgrounds with AI-generated content.

Step 7: Experimenting with the Blend Tool

  • Creative Merging: Use the blend tool to combine images in innovative ways, removing backgrounds and adjusting colours for creative effects.

Step 8: Crafting and Finalising Your Design

  • Use the provided tools to create unique designs. Once satisfied, download your completed project in your preferred format.

Conclusion

The new Canva update, while presenting an initial learning curve, offers impressive enhancements designed to streamline your creative process. Embrace the new features and take your designs to the next level with this comprehensive guide in hand. Remember, every innovation takes a moment to get used to, but with patience, you'll soon find these updates invaluable.

Ready to embark on your Canva journey? Let this guide illuminate your path to stunning DIY graphics. Enjoy exploring the possibilities, and stay tuned for more design tips and tutorials!

Jacqui Naunton // White Deer