The first step to create a custom chart or graph is to choose the right format for your data. Depending on the type and purpose of your data, you may want to use different types of charts and graphs, such as bar, pie, line, scatter, or map. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider factors such as the number of variables, the scale, the distribution, the trends, and the comparisons you want to show. You can use vector tools to create any format you want, but make sure it fits your data and your message.
While choosing which format suits your data best, avoid getting stuck with only the obvious traditional ones since turning charts into vectors allows you to get extra creative with them, think beyond, and be bold! Just ensure that what you create will make sense for a broader range of people.
The next step is to draw the basic shapes that make up your chart or graph. You can use vector tools to draw shapes such as rectangles, circles, lines, curves, or polygons, and adjust their size, position, and alignment. You can also use tools such as grids, guides, and snap to help you create accurate and consistent shapes. You can use layers to organize your shapes and group them together. You can also use masks or clipping paths to hide or reveal parts of your shapes.
Creativity is the keyword here if you want your chart to stand out! While the known traditional shapes are great for getting your message across, non-traditional ones will make a difference in your design. Charts are known for being an effective way to convey complex data, but when displayed in a suitable, unexpected format, they will add much more value to your message. Pathfinder, Pen, and an Expanded text are great tools for exploring new possibilities.
Plan Your Chart Design Before jumping into the design process, define the following: Data Type: What kind of data are you visualizing (e.g., percentages, comparisons, trends)? Chart Type: Decide on the type of chart (e.g., bar chart, pie chart, line graph, scatter plot). Colors and Style: Choose colors that enhance readability and ensure accessibility (especially for colorblind users). Key Elements: Consider whether you need titles, legends, labels, or gridlines in your chart.
The third step is to add colors and styles to your shapes to make them more appealing and informative. You can use vector tools to fill your shapes with solid colors, gradients, patterns, or textures, and apply strokes, shadows, or effects to them. You can also use tools such as color picker, color wheel, or color palette to choose colors that match your theme and mood. You can also use tools such as opacity, blend modes, or filters to create contrast and harmony among your colors.
Create the Chart Manually or Use Built-in Tools Manual Creation (Full Customization): Draw your axes using line or pen tools. Use the rectangle tool for bar charts, ellipse tool for pie charts, and line tool for line graphs. Add each data point manually, adjusting size and positioning based on your data. Using Built-in Chart Tools (Fast and Basic): In Adobe Illustrator, go to Object > Graph > Type to choose a basic chart template (bar, line, pie). Input your data directly into the dialogue box. Once the chart is generated, ungroup it to start customizing individual elements like colors, sizes, and labels.
The fourth step is to add labels and annotations to your chart or graph to make it more readable and understandable. You can use vector tools to add text, icons, symbols, or images to your shapes, and adjust their font, size, color, and alignment. You can also use tools such as text wrap, text on path, or text box to fit your text to your shapes. You can also use tools such as arrows, lines, or markers to point out important or interesting data points or trends.
Adjust the shapes, bars, or lines of your chart by scaling and repositioning them. In vector tools, you can easily manipulate points and paths to fine-tune shapes. Text Labels and Titles: Use the Type Tool to add titles, axis labels, and data points. Customize fonts, size, and placement to enhance readability. Colors: Use contrasting colors to distinguish different data sets. Ensure accessibility by using high-contrast color combinations (check with tools like Stark to simulate color blindness). Apply gradients or patterns to different sections of the graph for added visual interest. Gridlines and Guides: Add custom gridlines using the line tool or guides to help visualize data points accurately.
The fifth step is to add details and embellishments to your chart or graph to make it more attractive and memorable. You can use vector tools to add shapes or effects that enhance your data or your story, such as highlights, sparklines, icons, or illustrations. You can also use tools such as brushes, pens, or pencils to draw freehand or add artistic touches to your shapes. You can also use tools such as symbols, patterns, or brushes to create repeating or random elements that add variety and interest to your chart or graph.
Shadows and Highlights: Add depth by applying subtle shadows or highlights to bars, lines, or data points using layer styles. Icons or Illustrations: For more dynamic presentations, add small icons or illustrations that represent your data (e.g., use a small dollar sign for financial charts). Annotations: Use arrows, markers, or circles to highlight specific data points or trends within the chart. Legends: Create custom legends using text and colored boxes or lines to explain what each color or symbol represents.
The final step is to export and share your chart or graph with your audience. You can use vector tools to export your chart or graph in different formats, such as PNG, JPEG, SVG, or PDF, depending on your needs and preferences. You can also use tools such as artboards, slices, or export options to customize the size, resolution, and quality of your output. You can also use tools such as preview, print, or web options to check how your chart or graph will look on different devices or platforms.
Since vector graphics are infinitely scalable, make sure your chart maintains its proportions and readability when resized. Group elements together to ensure everything scales proportionally. For charts used in responsive designs (e.g., on a website), test how the chart looks at different sizes and make adjustments to text and element positioning if necessary.
While working on WeTavel's Travels Trend Report 2023, I faced a massive amount of numeric data that needed to be displayed in the most diverse, eye-catch way possible, and it was through the usage of vectors that I was able to represent them through different styles while keeping WeTravels brand's consistency throughout the whole project. Vectors are a great ally to your projects, and a wide variety of tools will help you transform charts into them, but remember that creativity is the game-changer!
xport your custom chart in the format you need, typically SVG for web use or PDF for print. If you're sharing on social media or presentations, consider exporting to PNG or JPEG to maintain quality while ensuring compatibility with different platforms.