Animated video · Beginner tutorial 2026
How to Use Cartoon Animator
Cartoon Animator is a animated video tool built for 2D animators and Explainers. This step-by-step tutorial walks you through setup and your first project — no prior editing experience required. You can follow along free (Free trial).
Cartoon Animator tutorial: step by step
Choose character
Head to the Cartoon Animator site and start with the free option (Free trial). Once you are in, choose character — this is where most of your creative decisions begin, so take a moment to explore the interface before diving in.
Rig and animate
Next, rig and animate. Lean on Motion capture for 2D to speed this up. Small adjustments here have the biggest impact on how professional your final video looks.
Export
Finally, export. Cartoon Animator handles the heavy lifting here, but always preview the result before you publish so the pacing, captions, and audio line up. This is the stage where Cartoon Animator shines for 2d animators.
Tips to get more out of Cartoon Animator
- • Use 2D rigging system to work faster — it's one of the reasons Cartoon Animator is rated 4.2/5.
- • Use Motion capture for 2D to work faster — it's one of the reasons Cartoon Animator is rated 4.2/5.
- • Use Template characters to work faster — it's one of the reasons Cartoon Animator is rated 4.2/5.
Common mistakes to avoid
- • Windows only
- • Learning curve for rigging
Works with your stack
Cartoon Animator integrates with Photoshop, After Effects, MP4 export — handy when you are stitching it into an existing faceless YouTube or short-form pipeline.
Ready to try Cartoon Animator?
Best for creators who want 2D character animation without a full studio.
Start Cartoon Animator Free →Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cartoon Animator tutorial FAQ
Is Cartoon Animator hard to learn?
No. Most people create their first animated video project within an hour. Cartoon Animator is best for 2D animators and Explainers, and the 3-step workflow above covers everything you need to get started.
Do I need editing experience to use Cartoon Animator?
Not really. A solid 2D animation tool with good mocap and rigging features. The interface is built so beginners can produce a finished video without prior editing skills, though features like 2D rigging system reward a little practice.
Is there a free way to try Cartoon Animator?
Yes — Free trial. That's more than enough to follow this tutorial end-to-end before deciding whether to upgrade. See the full Cartoon Animator pricing for paid tier details.
What can I make with Cartoon Animator?
Cartoon Animator is designed for 2D animators, Explainers, Indie creators. It integrates with Photoshop, After Effects, MP4 export, so it slots neatly into most faceless YouTube and short-form workflows.