Equipment needed to complete this Module
To complete this tutorial requires no specialist equipment. Included are some simple interactive demonstrations throughout. The basic requirements to viewing these are:
- Flash 7 plugin
- Broadband Internet connection (Not essential but it will help!)
Want to try more for yourself?
After working through this tutorial we hope you're inspired to make your own animation. Basic traditional animation requires very little equipment but unfortunately it is sometimes hard to come by on the High Street. Your local art supply store may stock the basics or be able to order them in. Alternatively a Google search on Animation Supplies will reveal a number of on-line suppliers of animation materials and equipment. Starter equipment typically includes:
- Sketchpad & Pencils
- Peg bar
- Pre-punched Animation paper
- Dopesheet pad
- An animation lightbox.
- Paint & Brushes
In addition the following standard computer equipment and software is desirable for making animations at home:
- A reasonably capable computer.
- A standard A4 desktop scanner.
- Toon Boom Studio (30 Day Free Trial available for Mac/PC). Toon Boom is a good example of a paid-for animation software package but there are also many freeware products worthy of consideration and as technology is constantly evolving it always worth checking to see what is available. Try a Google search on Animation Freeware.
Before rushing off to purchase equipment we advise you to simply enjoy the tutorial. You may also find it helpful to read one or two books on animation to get a clear understanding of what equipment is required.