You’re not a graphic designer.
I know this because, if you were, you wouldn’t be looking up Canva reviews in your search for an affordable, easy-to-use online graphic design tool.
If you do any type of work online, like web design or blogging, then graphic design is going to be a central component of your work. (especially if you’re a blogger)
It’s just a natural fit.
When I first started blogging to market my web design business, I was conducting the exact same search. I needed a graphic design tool that was free, simple, and so easy to use. I didn’t have time to learn graphic design skills from scratch.
And that’s when I came across Canva.
Why do you need a graphic design tool?
Because, in short, the internet runs on imagery. More than ever before.
People don’t have time to read your 3,000 word blog post. They will, however, skim through your post and pause at all of the unique and custom imagery you’ve created. That is, if it’s any good.
In this day and age, it’s crucial to get your brand’s message across through images and video.
For that reason, you’re going to need a good graphic design tool to design your own custom images. And, if you’re a complete newb like I was, you want that graphic design tool to be super easy to use.
So let’s dive in to this full review of Canva and see if it makes sense for you, shall we?
Features
Canva is loaded with awesome features. The basics are all covered, as well as some more advanced stuff.
- Adding custom text and fonts to images
- Image editing (tints, transparency, flipping, cropping, straightening, framing and more)
- Free and premium stock photos
- Free and premium illustrations and icons
- Ability to upload your own images and icons
- Automatic image resizing
- and much more…
But by far the coolest thing about Canva is the sheer number of custom templates they have on display.
Blogging, ebooks, social media, YouTube, marketing documents, graphs, desktop wallpapers… it’s all here.
Start from scratch, or choose a beautiful template to help give you some inspiration. Here are some of the templates you have to choose from:
- Social Media
- Tumblr
- Social media profile headers
- Social media ads
- Blogging and eBooks
- Book cover
- Desktop wallpaper
- Web banner
- Photo collage
- Blog banner
- Infographic
- Marketing Materials
- Poster
- Menu
- Flyer
- Logo
- Brochure
- Gift certificate
- Business card
- Events
- Postcard
- Invitation
- Card
- Program
- Announcement
- And more…
And, of course, Canva is always growing their template database as the internet evolves. (do I see some Virtual Reality templates in the near future?)
Ease of Use
But Canva’s real strength is how easy it is to use.
It utilizes a drag-and-drop interface, much in the same way that Weebly does.
No coding. No pencils, paint, or brushes.
Canva also uses a unique wireframe system that automatically “snaps” your images, icons and text into the proper place. This makes it absurdly easy to align your graphics any way you like.
Your clients will think you’re a professional graphic designer.
It’s honestly hard to convey just how simple it is. That’s why I encourage you to sign up for the free account and try it yourself!
Pricing
When I first signed up with Canva, I went with the free version.
After using Canva for a few months, it became clear to me that this was a product worth paying for. In fact, at $13/month, I think it’s a straight up bargain.
It is a small investment to make in what is such a crucial part of building an effective brand. You can see above the extensive list of features that are only available with the premium version.
Another option is to go with the free account, and just pay for premium images as you need them. They go for about $1 each.
So, if you’re someone who only needs to create a handful of images a month, this could be a better option for you.
They do also offer an Enterprise version of their product, but it seems to be limited to companies larger than 30 employees. (maybe one day Patrick, maybe one day…)
Customer Support
I’ve been using Canva for about 2-3 years and I’ve never once had to contact customer support for help. That’s how easy it is to use. (I know, I sound like a broken record)
But, in case you find yourself in need of some help, they have built a massive library of content to hold your hand along the way.
Blog posts, videos, tutorials and even full online courses are all at your disposal. Completely free.
That said, if you find all of that overwhelming, and need to talk to a human being, it is very difficult to find some contact info. Unfortunately, this is a very common practice with online businesses these days. Who’s got time to talk?
But, honestly, you’re not going to need to talk to anyone often. (if at all)
Conclusion
If you’re in need of a free graphic design tool that is easy to use and won’t take you months to master, then I can’t recommend Canva enough.
I know what you might be thinking. The answer is no, I’m not getting paid for this review. Though I probably should be, right Canva? ?
I just love their product so much that I believe more online business owners and bloggers should know about it.
And you know what? It’s completely free. So why not try it out for yourself and let me know what you think?
FAQ’s
Is Canva free?
Yes, Canva has a free version of their platform that will cover the basic needs of nearly everyone. They also offer a “premium” version called Canva for Work as a monthly subscription.
How much does Canva for Work cost?
Canva for Work, Canva’s premium online-based graphic design software, is $9.95/month USD when paid annually. If paid monthly, it’s $12.95/month.
What is Canva used for?
Canva is an easy-to-use graphic design tool that can be used to create images, documents, graphics and files of all kinds. From business cards, logos, flyers and pamphlets to YouTube thumbnails, Instagram Stories and Facebook Ads, Canva can help you design them all.
