Some of the best-known illustration apps are Procreate, Adobe Photoshop Sketch, and Paper. Whether you’re working in the digital realm or with pen and paper, mastering a few essential book illustration tools will see you well on your way to developing your own unique style of illustration.
Table of Contents
What program should I use to illustrate a book?
Some of the best-known illustration apps are Procreate, Adobe Photoshop Sketch, and Paper. Whether you’re working in the digital realm or with pen and paper, mastering a few essential book illustration tools will see you well on your way to developing your own unique style of illustration.

Can I illustrate a book using Canva?
Find a theme for your book. Currently, Canva allows users to find even free photos and illustrations. For this tutorial, we are going to choose the “circus” theme.
How do I become a children’s book Illustrator?
6 Places to Find Children’s Book Illustrator Jobs
- Reedsy. Reedsy is a resource hub and professional marketplace catering specifically to authors.
- SimplyHired. SimplyHired is another great place to look for children’s book illustrator jobs because it aggregates listings from all over the web.
- Indeed.
- Upwork.
- Fiverr.
- Twitter.
How do I become an illustrator?

How to Become an Illustrator
- Pursue an education. A degree program in fine arts will provide technical training, such as in drawing, painting, and computer graphics.
- Identify your style. Most illustrators have a recognizable illustration style and point of view.
- Create a portfolio.
- Build a client base.
How can I publish my own book?
How to Self-Publish a Book in 7 Steps
- Write a book that somebody wants to read.
- Edit the manuscript (with a professional)
- Design the cover and format the interior.
- Decide on print, ebook, or both.
- Master the Kindle store (and other retailers)
- Market your book effectively.
- Create a laser-focused launch plan.
How do book illustrators get paid?
We agree to pay an author/illustrator an advance against royalties. A proportion of this is paid when we sign the contract with the author/illustrator; a proportion is paid on the delivery of the work that they’ve agreed to do; and a proportion is paid on the publication of the book.