Draw & Color The MS Excel 2019 Logo: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Jhon Lennon 58 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to recreate the iconic MS Excel 2019 logo? Whether you're a student, a graphic design enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good DIY project, this guide is perfect for you. We'll break down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps, so you can draw and color your own Excel logo in no time. Let's dive in!

Understanding the MS Excel 2019 Logo

Before we start drawing, let's take a moment to understand what we're trying to replicate. The MS Excel 2019 logo is clean, simple, and instantly recognizable. It features a stylized 'X' in white, set against a green background. The green color represents growth, prosperity, and financial well-being – all things associated with Excel. The 'X,' of course, stands for Excel itself. The logo's design is a testament to minimalism, conveying a powerful message with just a few basic shapes and colors. To get started, understanding the design aspects is very important, guys. You need to understand the design's core elements such as shape, color and the message it conveys. Knowing these elements, it would be easier for you to make a design of your own, or recreate it.

When examining the MS Excel 2019 logo, pay close attention to the specific shade of green used. It's not just any green; it's a particular hue that Microsoft has carefully chosen to represent the Excel brand. Similarly, the white 'X' isn't just a plain white; it's a bright, crisp white that stands out against the green background. Notice how the 'X' is shaped. It's not perfectly symmetrical, and its lines have a slight curve to them, giving it a modern and dynamic look. Also, consider the negative space around the 'X.' The green background isn't just a solid block of color; it interacts with the 'X' to create a sense of balance and harmony. This balance is essential for a visually appealing logo. The proportions are carefully balanced, creating a visually appealing and recognizable symbol. Before you start sketching, try to visualize the logo in your mind. Break it down into its basic components: the green background, the white 'X,' and the overall shape of the logo.

Understanding these design nuances will help you recreate the logo more accurately and appreciate the thought process behind it. By paying attention to detail, you can capture the essence of the Excel brand and create a logo that is both visually appealing and true to the original. Think about how the logo might look in different contexts. How does it appear on a computer screen? How does it look on a printed document? How does it scale up or down in size? Consider these factors as you draw and color your logo, and you'll be well on your way to creating a professional-looking replica. So, grab your drawing tools and let's get started!

Materials You'll Need

To draw and color the MS Excel 2019 logo, you'll need a few basic materials. Don't worry, you probably already have most of these lying around. Here's a quick rundown:

  • Pencil: For sketching the initial outline. A regular HB pencil will work just fine.
  • Eraser: To correct any mistakes. A soft eraser is ideal to avoid smudging.
  • Ruler: To help you draw straight lines, especially for the 'X' shape.
  • Paper: Any type of paper will do, but a smooth surface is best for coloring.
  • Colored Pencils or Markers: Green and white are the primary colors you'll need. Make sure you have a shade of green that closely matches the Excel logo.
  • Optional: Compass: If you want to create a perfectly round background, a compass can be helpful.

Having the right tools at your disposal will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. Before you begin, make sure your pencils are sharpened, your eraser is clean, and your workspace is well-lit. A comfortable and organized environment will help you focus on the task at hand and produce the best possible results.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Alright, let's get to the fun part – drawing! Follow these steps to draw the MS Excel 2019 logo:

  1. Sketch the Basic Shape: Start by sketching a square or a rounded square. This will be the foundation of your logo. Use your pencil lightly, as you'll be erasing these lines later. If you're using a compass, draw a circle instead. The shape doesn't need to be perfect at this stage; it's just a guide.
  2. Draw the 'X': Inside the square (or circle), draw a large 'X.' Use your ruler to ensure the lines are straight. The 'X' should take up most of the space within the square, leaving a border around the edges. Pay attention to the angle of the lines; they should be diagonal and symmetrical. The 'X' is the focal point of the logo, so take your time and get it right.
  3. Refine the 'X' Shape: The 'X' in the Excel logo isn't perfectly straight; it has a slight curve to it. Gently round out the corners of the 'X' to soften the edges. This will give your logo a more modern and polished look. Use your eraser to remove any sharp corners or unnecessary lines.
  4. Erase the Guidelines: Once you're happy with the shape of the 'X,' carefully erase the initial square (or circle) that you sketched. This will leave you with just the 'X' on your paper. Make sure to erase cleanly, without smudging the lines of the 'X.'
  5. Outline the Logo: Now, use a darker pencil or a fine-tipped marker to outline the 'X.' This will make the lines stand out and give your logo a more defined look. Trace over the lines you've already drawn, making sure to follow the curves and angles accurately. Be careful not to make the lines too thick, as this can make the logo look clunky.

Coloring the Logo

Now that you've drawn the outline, it's time to color the MS Excel 2019 logo. Here's how:

  1. Color the Background: Using your green colored pencil or marker, carefully fill in the background around the 'X.' Try to stay within the lines and avoid coloring over the 'X.' Apply the color evenly to create a smooth and consistent background. If you're using colored pencils, you may need to layer the color to achieve a rich, vibrant green.
  2. Leave the 'X' White: The 'X' in the Excel logo is white, so you don't need to color it. Simply leave it blank, allowing the white of the paper to show through. This will create a striking contrast between the 'X' and the green background.
  3. Add Shading (Optional): If you want to add some depth and dimension to your logo, you can add subtle shading to the 'X.' Use a light gray or a slightly darker shade of white to add shadows along the edges of the 'X.' This will make it look more three-dimensional and give it a more professional look. However, be careful not to overdo it; the shading should be subtle and understated.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Logo

To ensure your MS Excel 2019 logo looks its best, here are a few tips and tricks:

  • Use High-Quality Materials: Investing in good-quality colored pencils or markers can make a big difference in the final result. High-quality materials will produce richer, more vibrant colors and will be easier to work with.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Keep practicing, and you'll gradually improve your skills. Try drawing the logo several times, experimenting with different techniques and materials.
  • Pay Attention to Detail: The small details can make a big difference in the overall look of your logo. Pay attention to the shape of the 'X,' the color of the background, and the smoothness of the lines.
  • Use a Reference Image: Keep a reference image of the Excel logo handy while you're drawing. This will help you ensure that your logo is accurate and true to the original.
  • Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Take your time and enjoy the creative process. The more time and effort you put into your logo, the better it will turn out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While drawing and coloring the MS Excel 2019 logo, be mindful of these common mistakes:

  • Incorrect Proportions: Make sure the 'X' is properly proportioned within the square or circle. An 'X' that is too large or too small will look out of place.
  • Uneven Coloring: Apply the color evenly to avoid streaks or patches. Uneven coloring can make the logo look unprofessional.
  • Sloppy Lines: Draw clean, crisp lines to create a polished look. Sloppy lines can make the logo look amateurish.
  • Wrong Shade of Green: Use a shade of green that closely matches the Excel logo. A green that is too light or too dark will detract from the overall look.

Showcasing Your Artwork

Once you've finished drawing and coloring your MS Excel 2019 logo, it's time to show off your artwork! Here are a few ideas:

  • Display it on Your Desk: Frame your logo and display it on your desk at home or at work. This is a great way to show off your creativity and add a personal touch to your workspace.
  • Use it as a Profile Picture: Use your logo as a profile picture on social media or online forums. This is a fun way to express your personality and interests.
  • Create a Digital Version: Scan your logo and create a digital version that you can use in presentations, documents, or websites. This is a great way to add a professional touch to your work.
  • Share it with Friends and Family: Share your logo with your friends and family and ask for their feedback. This is a great way to get encouragement and improve your skills.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Drawing and coloring the MS Excel 2019 logo is a fun and rewarding project that anyone can do. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create your own version of this iconic logo and showcase your creativity. Remember to take your time, pay attention to detail, and most importantly, have fun! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this guide will help you create a logo that you can be proud of. Now go ahead and unleash your inner artist!