Rig & Texture Characters in After Effects

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Do you want to learn how to create a vector-based character rig while still achieving a textured, hand-drawn feel?

In this tutorial, I'll show you how I combine a few simple techniques to make clean vector animation feel a little more organic. By layering effects in After Effects, looping hand-drawn brushstrokes, and animating on a lower frame rate, you can add texture, personality, and a touch of imperfection to your work.

You'll follow my entire process from start to finish, including:

  • Setting up the character in Illustrator

  • Building the rig with AE Script’s Joysticks ’n Sliders

  • Creating hand-drawn textures and looping brushstrokes in Procreate

  • Bringing everything together in After Effects for the final animation

Whether you're looking to give your character animations a more handcrafted look or you're simply curious about my workflow, this quick tutorial breaks down the techniques I use into an easy-to-follow process.

"I learned so much from Lindsey. She's a rigging machine" // Salty

✳︎

"Great tutorial, simple and easy to follow" // Philippa Brawn

✳︎

"This was a fascinating tutorial packed full of valuable tricks!" // Lacey

✳︎

"I learned so much from Lindsey. She's a rigging machine" // Salty ✳︎ "Great tutorial, simple and easy to follow" // Philippa Brawn ✳︎ "This was a fascinating tutorial packed full of valuable tricks!" // Lacey ✳︎