Many Web 2.0 sites have tried to recreate popular desktop applications such as Word or Photoshop, so it was only a matter of time before a site like Mikons came along.
Mikons' addition to online applications is one that tries to recreate Abode Illustrator.
To put it mildly, Illustrator isn't a program for everyone, but Mikons has implemented many of the Illustrator's basic elements into an easy to use application. Even those of us who are less than artistically inclined can create images or icons (my+icon = mikons, get it?). There is a library of ready-made images that can be used, as well as freehand tools for drawing. Images can be resized, coloured and distorted. You can even upload your own images to be edited, provided you know how to get them into an EPS format.
Because this is web 2.0, you can also include searchable tags into the images so your friends can find your creations.
The images can be used in a variety of way. They can be linked too, downloaded or even printed on to a T-shirt, provided that you can convince Mikons to ship your order to the UAE.
While most Web 2.0 make their money off of online advertising, Mikons skips the advertisements in place of customised products, such as stickers, T-shirts and even a wake board.
Besides the images you create, you can also edit, share and download almost 12,000 images created by other would-be artists. As you might guess, the quality of the images ranges from simply to very well done.
Given the nature of the site, there are very specific terms of use regarding what can be displayed. Even as I write this, I see at least three Mikons that would probably not make Apple of Microsoft very happy. Copyright warnings are posted very prominently.
Tips
- Name: Mikons
- Type: Graphic design
- URL: www.mikons.com
- Cost: Free to use, although products can be bought
- Proficiency required: Medium to high. Some artistic ability is also useful
