How-To Instructions:
Canva
Introduction
This page dives into Canva as an infographic creation tool with step-by-step instructions.
You will find it easier to get started if you have developed your visual plan, have some design tips in mind, and have collected your images and icons ahead of time.
If you are looking for a few alternatives to Canva, check out our PowerPoint instructions or visit Choosing the Best Tool.
What Is On This Page?
Before You Begin
Canva is a freemium tool, which means it includes both free-to-use and pay-to-use content. Using Canva for free means that you will be limited to using the platform’s free graphics, templates, and features.
You do not need to pay for content on Canva as there are plenty of free templates and graphics available on the platform and elsewhere on the internet, but you will need to know how to identify free versus paid content within Canva.
Free Content
Look out for the free icon on the bottom corner of graphics, images, or templates. You may have to hover over these elements to see it.
Pay-to-Use Content
Look for the crown on the corner of the resource to determine if there is a cost to use it. This can sometimes be a little tricky as some pay-to-use content does not have a crown.
Determining If Your Infographic Has Pay-To-Use Content
If you are not sure whether a picture, graphic, or template is free to use, bring it into your infographic and then tap on the download button.
If you have used any paid content you will see a cost to download your project.
Step 1: Setting Up an Account
Logging Into Canva
Go to www.canva.com.
If you already have an account with Canva, you can log into it by tapping the Log in button. If not, you will need to create an account.
To create an account, tap the Sign up button
You can sign up to Canva with your Google or Facebook account. Alternatively, you can also create an account with Canva using your email. We suggest using your Seneca email to differentiate your schoolwork and personal projects.
Once you have completed the sign-up form and confirmed your email you are ready to sign in and start building.
Step 2: Getting Started
Time to decide whether you want to start your project from scratch or if you would like to use a pre-populated template. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks.
Starting From Scratch
Although a blank canvas can seem daunting, it can also open up more possibilities.
Starting from scratch allows you:
to choose the size and orientation of your infographic.
the most control over your infographic’s design.
to build an infographic that will be unique and completely of your own design.
Starting With a Template
Working off a template does not mean half your work is done. Instead, it should set you on a trajectory that you explore through modifying and customizing the base template.
Working with a template:
can provide you with some visualization examples and inspiration.
will not allow you to resize your infographic.
will run you the risk of submitting an infographic that looks similar to your classmates'.
Dedicate some time to carefully choosing your template as it is hard to switch between templates once you have started building.
If You Are Starting From Scratch
Tap the Custom size button on the home page.
Choose the unit of measurement that you wish to work with and then define the size of your infographic. It may take a couple of tries before you find that perfect size.
If You Are Working With a Template
On the homepage, tap More beneath the search box. Locate the Infographics templates and select 'See all'.
Browse through the various templates and their respective categories. If you find a category that applies to your project, tap the see all button to see similar designs.
Choose Your Template Carefully
Make sure the template you choose is labeled as free. Some templates may not have a paid-resource crown but may still have paid-for images embedded within the design.
Step 3: Stylizing and Building Your Infographic
Thinking about your infographic style early in the project can help ensure your design remains consistent. If you have not already, visit Design Principles to learn about common design tips.
Remember, your infographic is meant to communicate a message and the design of your infographic should not hinder it from doing so.
Selecting/ Modifying a Background
Selecting a background is generally one of the first steps one takes when crafting their infographic.
Look for the Background button on the left-hand-side of the screen. If you do not see it there, check the More button that is usually found at the bottom of the menu.
Here you can decide if you want a solid colour, a pattern, or image as a background.
Inserting Text
Tap on the Text button on the left-hand side. From here, you will be able to add heading, subheading, and body text by tapping on the corresponding button.
You can also choose from several pre-created WordArt templates to add a bit of emphasis and excitement to your infographic.
Selecting a Font Style
Navigate over to the Styles tab in the left-side menu, then tap on the Fonts tab.
Here you will be able to select from a wide range of fonts. This method will change all the text on your infographic, and will help your design stay consistent.
Alternatively, if you want to edit a specific text entry you can click on the text entry block and use the edit menu that appears above your infographic to edit the specific text’s size, colour, alignment, font, and more.
Adding Elements
Tap on the Elements button to add lines, shapes, graphics, and photos and more.
Use the search feature to help narrow your options. Once you find a resource you would like to use, click on the resource to import it into your infographic.
Do not forget to look out for the free icon when you hover over the resource to make sure that the graphic or photo is free to use.
Selecting a Colour Theme
Navigate over to the Styles tab in the left-side menu, then tap on the Colors tab. Here you will be able to select a colour palette for your infographic. You can change your colour palette at any point of your build, so do not be afraid to experiment.
Looking to find a colour palette and font that compliment one another? Try the All tab for some inspiration.
Uploading Your Own Image
It can, at times, be difficult to find that perfect (free) picture or resource for your infographic. If you are not able to find something within Canva, an alternative is to find a creative commons resource online.
Canva accepts both PNG and JPEG image files. To upload an image/graphic into Canva, tap Uploads > Upload media > Device. Now locate the media you wish to upload on your computer.
Do not forget to cite any content that is not yours.
Step 4: Download Your Infographic
Once you have completed your infographic and have carefully reviewed it, it is time to download it from Canva.
Download as a PDF
Tap the Download button.
Here you will be given the choice of what format to export your infographic. For most academic assignments, we recommend exporting as a PDF Print. Alternatively, you can also choose to export as a JPEG or PNG file.
Once you have selected your file format, tap Download.
You are done!
Double check that your infographic looks right in its final form, and that your citations and image credits are all there. Lastly check your assignment's submission requirements and share your work with your instructor.
