BioRender is a popular web-based platform for creating high-quality scientific illustrations. While they do offer a free version, some features are exclusive to paid plans. Here’s a guide on how to make the most out of the free version of BioRender:
How to Use BioRender for Free: A Beginner’s Guide
- Sign Up
- Go to the BioRender website.
- Click on the “Sign Up” button and follow the registration process.
- Choose the “Free” plan when prompted.
- Navigating the Dashboard
- Once you log in, you’ll be directed to your dashboard.
- Here, you can create new illustrations, view saved ones, and access shared illustrations from colleagues.
- Creating a New Illustration
- Click the ‘New Illustration’ button.
- You’ll be prompted to choose a canvas size. For presentations, posters, and more, there are preset dimensions available.
- Tool Palette
- On the left side, you’ll find the tools palette, where you can select shapes, lines, and text tools.
- Remember, in the free version, you might not have access to all symbols and icons.
- Using Icons and Symbols
- BioRender has a vast library of scientific icons and symbols.
- Use the search bar to find specific icons. Drag and drop them onto your canvas.
- Note: In the free version, some icons might be watermarked or unavailable.
- Customize Your Illustration
- Once you’ve placed an icon, you can resize, rotate, and move it.
- Use the properties panel on the right to change colors, add shadows, or adjust opacity.
- Adding Text
- Click on the ‘Text’ tool.
- Drag and create a text box on your canvas. Type your content and adjust the font, size, and color as needed.
- Grouping and Layering
- You can select multiple icons and group them using the ‘Group’ option.
- Use the layering options to bring elements forward or send them backward.
- Saving and Exporting
- Regularly save your work by clicking the ‘Save’ button.
- When finished, you can export your illustration. In the free version, the exported files might have a watermark.
- Tips for Free Users
- Make use of publicly available templates and icons, especially those without watermarks.
- Collaborate with peers. Shared illustrations might give you access to icons used by others (though this depends on BioRender’s policies at the time).
- Stay updated. Sometimes, BioRender offers promotions or expands the icons available for free users.
- Upgrading
- If you find the free version limiting, consider upgrading. The paid version removes watermarks, provides access to a larger icon library, and offers higher resolution exports.
Remember, while the free version of BioRender has limitations, it’s still a powerful tool for creating scientific illustrations. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can make stunning visuals even without a paid subscription.
