How to Become a Self-Taught Graphic Designer in Malaysia

You don’t need a degree to become a successful graphic designer in Malaysia. Many top designers are self-taught, using online resources, practice, and freelance projects to build their careers. Whether you want to work in-house, freelance, or start your own design business, this guide will show you how to learn graphic design, create a strong portfolio, and land high-paying jobs—without formal education.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-12 at 8:36 AM

Updated on 2025-03-12 at 8:44 AM

Graphic design is a career that doesn’t require a degree—many successful designers in Malaysia are entirely self-taught, building their skills through online resources, hands-on practice, and freelance work.

Whether you want to work as a freelancer, join a creative agency, or land an in-house role, the key to success lies in mastering essential design tools, developing a strong portfolio, and continuously learning industry trends. 

This guide will walk you through the exact steps to become a self-taught graphic designer in Malaysia, from learning the fundamentals to finding your first job or client.

1. Can You Become a Graphic Designer Without a Degree?

Yes! Many successful graphic designers in Malaysia started without formal training. Employers and clients care more about your skills, portfolio, and creativity than a degree.

💡 What Matters Most in Graphic Design Careers:

• Strong Design Skills – Mastering software and visual principles.
• A Well-Curated Portfolio – Showcasing your best work.
• Practical Experience – Freelance work, internships, or personal projects.
• Up-to-Date Knowledge – Staying current with design trends and tools.

Want to know if graphic design suits you? Take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to discover your strengths.

2. What Skills Do You Need to Become a Graphic Designer?

To succeed as a self-taught graphic designer, focus on technical, creative, and business skills.

Essential Graphic Design Skills:

✔ Design Fundamentals – Learn about typography, color theory, and composition.
✔ Adobe Creative Suite & Figma – Master Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma.
✔ Branding & Visual Identity – Understand how to create logos and brand elements.
✔ UI/UX Basics – Learn how design impacts digital experiences.
✔ Freelance & Business Skills – Pricing, contracts, and client communication.

Want to develop job-ready skills? Read 5 Skills A Creative Designer Needs To Get Hired In Malaysia.

3. The Best Free & Paid Resources to Learn Graphic Design

You don’t need to spend a fortune to learn graphic design. There are plenty of free and affordable resources available.

Free Learning Platforms:

• Canva Design School – Great for beginners.
• YouTube Tutorials – Channels like Dansky, Yes I’m a Designer, and Satori Graphics.
• Coursera & Udemy (Free Courses) – Basic design and Adobe tutorials.

Paid Learning Platforms (For Advanced Skills):

• Skillshare & Domestika – In-depth design courses from professionals.
• LinkedIn Learning – Business-focused design training.
• Adobe Certified Training – Official courses on Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

💡 Pro Tip: Start with free resources, then invest in paid courses or certifications when you’re ready to level up.

Looking for graphic design jobs? Check out Hiredly’s latest job listings.

4. How to Build a Strong Graphic Design Portfolio

A strong portfolio is your most important tool as a self-taught designer. It proves your skills and helps you land jobs or freelance clients.

Steps to Build an Impressive Portfolio:

✔ Work on Personal Projects – Create branding for imaginary brands, posters, or UI/UX designs.
✔ Redesign Existing Brands – Pick a brand and create a fresh new look.
✔ Take on Small Freelance Gigs – Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or local Facebook groups.
✔ Contribute to Open Source Projects – Help design social media graphics or website UI for nonprofits.
✔ Create a Personal Website – Showcase your best work on Behance, Dribbble, or a personal site.

Want to stand out to employers? Read How to Make Your Resume Stand.

5. Freelance vs. In-House: Where Should You Start?

Once you have solid design skills and a portfolio, you can choose between freelancing or getting an in-house design job.

💡 Best Approach: Start with freelancing to gain experience, then transition into full-time employment or continue growing your freelance career.

Still unsure? Read Freelance vs. In-House Graphic Design in Malaysia.

6. How to Land Your First Graphic Design Job in Malaysia

Whether you want to freelance or work full-time, here’s how to get hired as a self-taught graphic designer.

Steps to Land Your First Design Job:

✔ Apply for Entry-Level & Internship Roles – Get experience in agencies or startups.
✔ Leverage Social Media – Share your work on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
✔ Join Design Communities – Engage with designers on Behance, Dribbble, and Facebook groups.
✔ Offer Free or Discounted Work (Initially) – Help small businesses or charities to build your portfolio.
✔ Network with Industry Professionals – Attend events, workshops, and online forums.

Want more job opportunities? Check out Hiredly’s job listings.

7. Essential Tools for Self-Taught Graphic Designers

A designer is only as good as their tools and workflow.

Must-Have Graphic Design Tools:

✔ Adobe Creative Suite – Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign.
✔ Figma & Sketch – For UI/UX and web design.
✔ Canva – For quick, template-based design work.
✔ Procreate – For digital illustration and hand-drawn graphics.
✔ Unsplash & Pexels – Free stock images for design projects.

💡 Pro Tip: Start with free or affordable tools, then upgrade as you build your career.

Want to master AI-powered design? Read How to Use AI to Create Better Content Faster.

Many self-taught designers in Malaysia have built successful careers without formal education. With dedication, the right resources, and a strong portfolio, you can land freelance clients, agency roles, or in-house design jobs. Ready to kickstart your graphic design career? Explore Hiredly’s job listings, join the Young Talent Community, and take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to find your creative strengths.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-12 at 8:36 AM