Many iconic logos are distinguished by their simplicity, often combining just text with a distinctive symbol. Examples include well-known brands like Myspace, YouTube, Yahoo, and Google.
In this Gimp logo creation guide, we will learn how to design a logo with text and a simple symbol. We’ll use the Path tool and apply gradient fills from the “30 Ultimate Web 2.0 Layer Styles for Gimp” pack available in the download section.
Step 1
Begin by creating a new image of size 300×400 pixels.
Step 2
For this tutorial, I am using the Segoe UI Bold font. Feel free to select a font that fits your design needs, as choosing the right font is a crucial step in logo design. Take your time to find a font that complements your site’s style.
Step 3
Type in any word of your choice. In this instance, I’ve used Amixroed.com, which is the name of one of my graphic design services.
Step 4
Assuming you have downloaded the “Web 2.0 Layer Styles for Gimp” pack, we’ll use the “Web 2.0 Grey 3D” gradient. If you prefer to do it manually, create a gradient in the Gradient tab/Dialog, using 3f4c6b and 606b88 for the left and right endpoints, respectively.
Step 5
Ensure that the ‘Lock alpha channel’ option is checked in the layer dialog.
Step 6
Apply the “Web 2.0 Grey 3D” gradient vertically from top to bottom.
Make sure the gradient is applied evenly, without any angles. It should look like this:
Step 7
Duplicate the layer and fill it with the same gradient, this time from bottom to top. Place this layer behind the others.
Step 8
Create a new layer and name it “Symbol”. Use the Path tool in Design mode to draw a triangle, then switch to Edit mode to close the shape.
Step 9
While in Edit mode, adjust the right line of the triangle to create a curve.
Step 10
Select the ‘Create selection from path’ button. Use the Gradient fill tool with the “Web 2.0 Red 3D” gradient, applying it from left to upper right. If you don’t have the preset gradients, create a gradient with d11414 and fe1b01 for the left and right endpoints, respectively.
Step 11
Duplicate the “Symbol” layer, positioning it behind the original and reducing its opacity to 27%.
And there you have it!
Now, feel free to experiment and create more complex symbols using the Path tool.
I hope you find this tutorial helpful. I welcome any feedback and am available to help. Just post your queries here or use the forum at http://gimper.net, and I will respond promptly.
You can download the source files for this tutorial below.
