Stylized Animation in After Effects

Oleksandra Dudka

Motion Designer & Illustrator

In this new YouTube tutorial, I will show you a few ways to stylize your work in After Effects. Just a couple of effects and your work will have a more handcrafted “brushstyle” look.

Tutorial: Stylizing Your Work in After Effects for a Handcrafted “Brushstyle” Look

Introduction

In this tutorial, we’ll explore a few effective ways to stylize your work in After Effects, giving it a unique and handcrafted “brushstyle” appearance. Follow these step-by-step instructions to enhance your artworks with creative effects.

I. Scatter and Bilateral Blur Technique

1. Objective: Add texture and distortion to artworks using scatter and bilateral blur effects.
2. Steps:
   • Apply the painting scatter effect.
   • Utilize retro blur to soften edges while retaining texture.
   • Create a gradient with cross blur for a fluffy texture.
3. Result: Achieve a textured and stylized look for your work.

II. Sculpture and Radial Blur Method

1. Objective: Enhance the brushstroke appearance with sculpture and radial blur effects.
2. Steps:
   • Apply sculpture effect for a three-dimensional look.
   • Use radial blur to emphasize brush strokes.
   • Apply the sharpen effect to enhance details.
3. Pro Tip: Use the TO Com value expression for radial blur’s point to maintain position during object movement.
4. Result: Achieve a handcrafted and brushstroke-heavy visual style.

III. Turbulent Displace for Uneven Edges

1. Objective: Explore an alternative to scatter by using turbulent displace for more uneven edges.
2. Steps:
   • Replace scatter with turbulent displace.
   • Customize stylization parameters for a unique look.
3. Result: Create a distinct and customizable stylization for your artwork.

Conclusion

By following these techniques, you can elevate your After Effects projects with a handcrafted “brushstyle” look. Experiment with these effects, mix and match them, and don’t forget to share your creations!