The intent of this tutorial is meant to show how to set up a basic layering system in Adobe Illustrator, by creating compound paths and mask options by using a variation of elements. By adding a few steps and elements to a design and using certain tools and techniques, the dynamic range of a composition can increase dramatically from a visual standpoint. I pursued this with the hopes to incorporate quite a bit of information on a basic design level, while showing some techniques that can be utilized in a wide range of ways. These two examples that I presented, hold an infinite amount of options depending upon the elements that the user would like to incorporate into their design. This was not an easy task when it came to writing my transcript for the captions. I was finally able to get them to work quite well, however, I did see some minor problems with timing. I wanted to be as natural as possible when speaking, even though I was quite nervous. The intent was to open up some creativity or ideas for anyone who will watch this, in a way that is relevant and current in today’s market for design. Layers, masks, compound paths are nothing new, however you can see them everywhere right now and they are getting more rich and complex by the day. I love being creative and sharing some ideas and for this project, I challenged myself by using tools and techniques I have already worked with, but I picked the elements at random and decided to design this pretty much on the fly. The title “SOLO”, didn’t even occur until I started recording my first sessions and takes on ScreencastO’matic. I was really challenged with re-writing my script as I deviated heavily from the original because it felt way to robotic and unnatural to me, so I ended up using about the first two sentences in the original and from there it was all improve. With the exception that I have a pretty good understanding of what I was doing, it was a whole new ball game to try and explain with words, each step and process, in a clear and understandable way for viewers. I was so nervous and worried I was not going to complete this project or that my transcript was going to be so off that it would have been a waste of time, but once I really made myself get to it and put some time into the production, editing and detail work on the back end, I ended up really glad that I was out of my comfort zone for this project, otherwise I don’t think I would have felt as good about the final production. By far the hardest portion was having to take so many times to get started and get comfortable behind the microphone and I also hope that I didn’t sound cynical or like a jerk, I was trying to break the ice and lighten the mood a little, just for the sake that I could loosen up to complete the recording and tutorial that held a bit of who I am and hopefully add some humor. I apologize if I offended anyone or if I was perceived in a way that felt like I was being a jerk. I guess I was a bit sarcastic, but it was not ill intended by any means, so forgive me if I upset you in any way. I hope you enjoyed the tutorial!