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Let’s admit it… mobile devices can sometimes seem like they rule our lives as we can be overly attached to them. To some, having to live a weekend without a smartphone seems like a weekend of complete torture! I personally know how tough it can be to make a cut like this with a device for a few days… it’s not very pleasant! My smartphone allows me to be directly connected to family, friends, work, breaking news, and more. While mobile devices are a staple in our society, there are a lot of really cool apps that can make your design life on-the-go a little easier! They might also offer you a sense of relief as you aren’t just browsing your latest pins on Pinterest, but are actually being productive!

 

Here is our list of our favorite (and free) mobile apps for designers:

All applications are available to download through Google Play and/or iTunes.

1. Sketchbook Mobile Express
This great sketching app allows you to sketch with the use of your finger right on your phone (or tablet). Think of your finger as being the pencil! Sketchbook Mobile Express is super handy when a piece of paper or pencil are not available. It allows your to capture those quick design inspirations or compile a sketch for a client during a meeting with ease. Here are some of our favorite features:

  • The application comes with six preloaded brushes.
  • Make your sketch stand out by adding up to three layers. Your photos from your gallery can also be incorporated.
  • Adding text is a breeze.
  • A color wheel is available to make sure you can fine tune to the exact hue.
  • Save your artwork to your gallery.

2. Ruler Plus
How many times do you need to take a quick measurement but cannot find a ruler? This is one of my greatest frustrations as rulers always seem to disappear around our office. With the Ruler Plus application, a two inch ruler will always be at your fingertips

  • Never be caught without a ruler again!
  • iPhone Only (there are also several comparable free ruler apps for Android devices as well)

3. Adobe Kuler
Need a little color inspiration for your next project? Simply snap a picture and Adobe’s Kuler app will select a color scheme based on the photo that can be implemented into your next project.

  • Grab quick color schemes for your next project!
  • iPhone Only (there are also several comparable free color scheme apps for Android devices as well)

4. Fontly
Think of this as a meeting place for Instagram and typography. Fontly allows users to snap pictures of fonts (think cool signs) and share them with other users via their app.

  • Browse their gallery for quick inspiration!

 

While there are numerous apps that benefit designers, these four mobile applications are just a few among our favorites.

 

R2F Creative LLC provides graphic design + branding and web design solutions for clients nationwide and locally in Ankeny and Des Moines, Iowa.