In this video, we explore how to design and prepare custom graphics for knobs, buttons, and menus using two essential tools: Knobman and Photoshop (or PNG templates if you don’t have Photoshop).

You’ll learn:

• How animated knob graphics are created in Knobman using layers, masks, embossing, and animation

• How to export knob graphics correctly for use in Kontakt (PNG with alpha, stacked frames, vertical layout)

• The six required image states for buttons and switches in Kontakt (off, on, down, over, etc.)

• How menu templates are structured and what to consider when designing your dropdown menus

• The difference between static and interactive graphics, and why even non-designers should understand this process

The .knob file, PNG exports, and PSD templates shown in this video are included in the Exercise Files section so you can follow along or adapt them for your own instruments.

Even if you’re not a graphic designer, this video will help you communicate effectively with one — and understand how to prepare and structure GUI assets for use in your Kontakt instruments.