You have to start somewhere when learning a new program, so let’s start with the basics. In this tutorial we will be exploring the tools used to create our Flash masterpieces. I’m going to assume you’ll have the latest version of Flash (Flash 8.0) when going through these tutorials. However, I’m sure you can relate these tutorials to any recent version of Flash (Flash 5, Flash MX, Flash MX 2004). If you don’t have Flash, you can always download a trial copy from http://www.macromedia.com. I’m also going to assume you have basic knowledge with the program (such as creating new documents, opening documents, etc.). Okay, on that note, let’s begin.

Open up a new document so we can see the toolbar. You will notice there are two arrows. A black and white one. Let’s focus on the black one first. The black arrow allows you to do what you would expect it to do, and that’s click, grab, and drag objects. But it’s also a nifty way for you to manipulate drawings. Many Flash animators only use circles and squares to make their drawings. So how do they make things look so darn good? Simple, they use the black arrow tool (among other things). Try it out for yourself! Select the Oval Tool and draw a circle. Then select the Black Arrow Tool , grab a line somewhere on the circle, click and drag. Observe what happens.

Click the image for a better view.

It’s amazing what you can do with just a circle and the Black Arrow Tool. Many Flash animators prefer to do this to lower the file size of their final product. Play around with it some more and see what you can come up with.

Tomorrow I will cover more of the tools.

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