Intro to
2D Animation Course

Learn the basics of 2D animation online using the free animation software, Krita. Guided by The Animation School’s expert facilitators, you’ll gain hands-on experience and learn to create simple 2D animations in just six weeks. In this 2D animation course for beginners, you’ll learn how to:

Create 2D animations using Krita
Draw digitally using a tablet
Design characters for 2D animations
Do background colouring

About the course

Registration Form

Programme

What’s Covered in the
Intro to 2D Animation Course

Learn the key principles of 2D animation. Explore the process involved in making an animation in Krita using the same techniques as animation industry professionals.

Krita Animation Software

Get started with Krita, a free, open-source animation program used by professional 2D animators worldwide. Learn how to draw, layer, and create simple animated scenes using its built-in tools.

2D Animation Fundamentals

Become familiar with core 2D animation principles through practical exercises in drawing, character design, and simple scene-building.

Digital Drawing

Practise drawing directly on screen using a tablet. Develop control, line quality, and digital sketching techniques used in 2D animation workflows.

2D Character Design

Create simple characters with personality. You’ll learn how to design expressive figures that can be used in short animations.

Background Colouring Basics

Explore how to add colour and depth to 2D scenes. You’ll experiment with simple backgrounds that support your characters and animations.

Why study at The Animation School?

Gain In-Demand Skills From the #1 Animation School in Africa

Ranked among the top 11 animation schools worldwide in 2025, we offer a practical, industry-driven curriculum that makes our graduates highly sought-after. Our students consistently win top awards both locally and internationally, and 80–90% of graduates go on to work for leading animation studios worldwide.

Q&A

Do You Have Questions About the Intro to 2D Animation Course?

Find answers to common questions about the Introduction to Stop Motion short course.

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Will I Get a Certificate?

Yes. Students who attend all sessions and complete the required exercises will receive a certificate of completion from The Animation School.

Who Is This 2D Animation Course for?

This course is open to anyone with basic computer skills. Whether you're a high school student (Grade 8–12), a working professional exploring a creative path, or a traditional artist wanting to go digital. It’s a hands-on way to explore 2D animation and see if it’s something you want to pursue further.

Do I Need Any Drawing Experience?

No drawing experience is required. You’ll learn digital drawing skills step by step in class using a drawing tablet and free animation software.

What Does This Course Cost?

The Introduction to 2D Animation short course costs R3,900.

If you’ve previously completed a short course through The Animation School, you qualify for a 10% discount.

Do You Offer Financial Assistance?

There are currently no bursaries available for short courses.

What Animation Software Will I Use in This Course?

This course uses Krita, a free 2D animation software. It’s open-source, widely used, and a great tool for anyone starting out in digital animation. Download Krita here.

What Drawing Tablet Will I Need?

We recommend you get one of the following digital drawing tablets:

• XP-Pen Deco Fun L Graphics Drawing Tablet

• Wacom One Drawing Tablet Small

What Is the Format of This Course?

The Introduction to 2D Animation course is delivered entirely online over the course of six weeks. Live classes take place on Saturdays from 10:00 to 13:00, taught by experienced animation facilitators.

In addition to these weekly online classes, you’ll need to spend around three hours per week watching lectures and completing practical exercises on your own.

The next cohort starts 4 October 2025.

How Do I Join the Intro to 2D Animation Course?

Simply complete the registration form at the top of this page, submit it, and make the necessary payment.

What if I Want to Study Animation Full-Time?

If you’re serious about pursuing a career in animation, consider applying for our Diploma in Digital Animation. It’s a full-time, three-year qualification that prepares you for work in the animation industry through hands-on training, studio production experience, and professional development. Many students use the Introduction to 2D Animation course as a first step before committing to full-time study.

Testimonial

A word from our students

"The 2D Animation short course was truly life-changing. Learning the fundamentals of frame-by-frame animation and character drawing was incredibly rewarding. The lecturers are world-class animators - knowledgeable, inspiring, and down-to-earth.

We were lucky to learn from industry leaders. The Animation School staff were also fantastic - quick to respond and made the online platform seamless and easy to use.

I’ll definitely be back for more courses!"

Nini Van Der Walt

Student at the Animation School

Ready to Discover the Magic of 2D Animation? Register Today

Complete the registration form and pay the registration fee

Join the next class starting on 4 October 2025

Intro to 2D Animation Course