Some of the most useful new Illustrator features are easy to miss if you aren't actively exploring the latest updates and beta tools. In this episode, Theresa Jackson talks with illustrator and toy designer Thaddeus Coates and digital artist Luke Choice about the new Illustrator features they're genuinely excited to use.

Thaddeus shares how Illustrator fits into his character design and toy-making process, including using Turntable to communicate ideas to manufacturers. Luke dives into the practical side of Illustrator updates, from snapping improvements and smoother performance to AI-assisted vector workflows inside Illustrator Beta.

Whether you spend your days designing logos, illustrating characters, building client work, or experimenting with new ideas, there's probably a feature in this episode you haven't tried yet.

Episode Highlights

• Prototyping with Turntable: Hear how Thaddeus Coates uses Turntable to prototype toy ideas and communicate designs to manufacturers faster.
• Live Preview Tools: Learn why Illustrator's Live Preview drawing tools feel more natural and responsive for illustrators working on iPad and desktop.
• Workflow Efficiency: Hear Luke Choice explain how small workflow improvements, including font browsing and snapping updates can save serious production time.
• Sketch to Vector: Explore how Sketch to Vector in Illustrator Beta is changing the way artists turn rough sketches and low-resolution artwork into editable vectors.
• Real-World Application: Hear both guests share examples of using Illustrator's newest features for experimentation, iteration, and client work.

Resources

• CreativePro Week 2026: Nashville, June 29–July 3, 2026. https://creativeproweek.com/
• CreativePro Events: https://creativepro.com/events/
• Event Savings: Save $100 on any CreativePro event in 2026 with the discount code PODCAST: https://creativepro.com/events/
• Membership Discount: Get $15 off one year of CreativePro membership with the discount code PODCAST: https://creativepro.com/become-a-member/
• Adobe Help: What's New in Illustrator on the Desktop: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/desktop/new-features/whats-new.html
• Thaddeus Coates: https://www.hippypotter.com/
• Luke Choice: https://www.velvetspectrum.com/