Tutorials

The Flash Logo Design Tutorial with Vector Ink

Introduction

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create the Flash logo from scratch using Vector Ink, the powerful vector design tool available on both web and mobile. By following along, you’ll master two essential tools: the Ribbon Tool for shaping the lightning bolt and the Path Builder Tool for adding depth and 3D effects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced designer, this guide will help you bring superhero energy to your next project.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Project

Start by opening Vector Ink. You can launch it online at vectorink.io or download the mobile app from Google Play. Once inside, create a new project. On your blank canvas, select the Pen Tool. This will be your main tool for drawing the lightning bolt.

If you’re on a laptop, use Option + Mouse Wheel (Mac) or Alt + Mouse Wheel (Windows) to zoom in or out. Position your view so you can comfortably draw in the center of the canvas.

Step 2: Drawing the Lightning Bolt

Using the Pen Tool, click to create your first point at the top of the canvas. Continue placing points in a zig-zag pattern to form the shape of a lightning bolt:

  • Draw a 45-degree diagonal line downward.
  • Click again to create a corner point.
  • Draw a short horizontal line to the right, then another diagonal downward at 45 degrees.
  • Repeat the process until you have a full bolt shape.
Don’t worry about perfection—Vector Ink’s snapping system helps align points automatically.

Step 3: Transforming the Bolt with the Ribbon Tool

Next, select your lightning bolt path and activate the Ribbon Tool. This tool allows you to expand and shape your stroke into a full vector object. Pull on each corner handle outward to give the bolt a bold, dynamic form.

After adjusting the corners, switch back to the Selection Tool to confirm your shape. You should now have a solid lightning bolt ready for color.

Step 4: Coloring the Lightning Bolt

Open the Color Panel and scroll to the warm tones section. Choose a bright yellow for the bolt’s fill color. Click off the panel to apply the color. Then, move this shape behind its original stroke to prepare for the next 3D effect step.

Step 5: Adding 3D Depth with the Path Builder Tool

To create the 3D illusion, activate the Line Tool and draw lines across the lightning bolt—connecting corners diagonally and horizontally. Once you’ve added your guide lines, select everything and open the Path Builder Tool.

With Path Builder active:

  • Select a darker yellow and use it to “cut out” the shadowed portions of your bolt.
  • Then select a lighter orange and apply it to the highlighted sections.
  • Open the Path Builder properties, set it to Replace None, and bring the new colored areas to the front.
This process gives your bolt a realistic layered look, as if light is hitting it from one side.

Step 6: Cleaning Up Your Layers

Now, delete the construction lines used to form the bolt’s edges. If you can’t select them directly, open the Layers Panel, locate the line elements, and remove them manually. You’ll be left with a clean, professional lightning bolt shape.

Step 7: Creating the Flash Emblem

With your bolt complete, it’s time to add the circular background:

  • Double-tap the Line Tool and choose the Circle Tool.
  • Enable Constrain to maintain a perfect circle as you drag.
  • Fill the circle with white and apply an orange stroke (the second orange from the palette).
  • Open Stroke Properties and set the stroke width to about 16px.
  • Send the circle behind the lightning bolt.

Finally, open the Document Panel and change the background to a darker orange for contrast. Adjust stroke and fill colors as needed for perfect visual balance.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just created The Flash’s iconic logo using Vector Ink’s Ribbon Tool and Path Builder Tool. This project demonstrates how powerful and intuitive Vector Ink is for crafting dynamic logos and shapes — whether you’re on desktop or mobile. Keep experimenting with colors, gradients, and effects to bring even more energy to your designs.

Ready to design your own superhero logo? Launch Vector Ink today and start creating anywhere, anytime. ⚡

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