You will learn how to create the illusion of speeds which are too fast for 15fps to capture.

In traditional animation, making a character walk is one of the most difficult tasks. We simplify the whole process by using a zig-zag pattern.

The swing pattern combines the ideas of speeding up and slowing down with a fulcrum. One end of a swing pattern is locked down, while the other swings to and fro. This creates the illusion of momentum and weight on the swinging end of a rope, a swing set, or a pendulum. 

Overlapping Action is an animation basic concept and unique vocabulary. The idea is that momentum and movement create not just one basic action, but many sub-actions too. In this lesson we add overlapping action to the swing formula. Our little clay guy lags behind the swing motion just as Tarzan's body might overlap and lag behind the main motion of the vine. 

Advancing the idea of overlapping action, this secret recipe adds two poses for further explanation of this very important animation concept.

In animation we look for ways to create the illusion of life. When you master the art of blinking, along with facial expressions and talking formulas, your characters will look like they are thinking.

What your characters say may be the most important part of animated storytelling. This secret recipe is the most powerful tool we teach.

A basic project which employs animation's basic ideas.