How I Created a Short Cartoon Video Using AI Tools: From Script to Animation
In today’s fast-moving creative landscape, artificial intelligence is not just a tool — it’s a creative partner. As someone passionate about storytelling, design, and technology, I wanted to experiment with how different AI platforms could help bring a simple idea to life.
In this post, I’ll share how I created a short animated video using ChatGPT, OpenArt, ElevenLabs, and iMovie — a complete AI-driven workflow that transformed a story into a moving, narrated cartoon.
Step 1: Writing the Script with ChatGPT
Every story starts with words.
I began by using ChatGPT to write the script for my short animation, about a girl named Evelyn who discovers a magical world within her imagination. I iterated several times, refining tone, pacing, and emotion until I was fully satisfied with the final version.
Tip: When working with AI for writing, always think of it as a collaborator, not a replacement. The magic happens in the editing phase — that’s where your creative voice truly appears.
Step 2: Creating the Character with OpenArt
Once I had the story, I moved on to visuals.
Using OpenArt, I designed the main character — inspired by the imaginative, childlike spirit of discovery. I generated four key images of the character in different poses, following the script’s sequence.
Then, within OpenArt itself, I used AI animation prompts to turn those static images into short video clips that matched the story’s flow and mood.
Step 3: Giving Life to the Narrator with ElevenLabs
To make the story feel complete, I needed a voice.
I turned to ElevenLabs, a platform for creating realistic AI voices. I selected a warm, expressive tone for the narrator that fit perfectly with the emotional style of the story.
The result was a professional-quality narration that brought the script to life, adding rhythm and personality to each scene.
Step 4: Editing Everything Together in iMovie
My first idea was to combine all the clips in CapCut, but since I wanted to avoid a subscription, I chose iMovie on Mac.
It turned out to be the perfect free solution — simple, intuitive, and ideal for assembling short creative projects.
I imported the animated clips, synced them with the ElevenLabs voice track, and added a touch of background music to complete the atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: AI as a Creative Partner
This small experiment showed me how powerful and accessible AI tools have become for independent creators. From writing and design to voice and editing, I was able to produce a full animated story — without a studio or complex software.
For anyone interested in UX, design, storytelling, or creative technology, this kind of project is not just an artistic exercise — it’s a portfolio piece that demonstrates adaptability, curiosity, and innovation.
Tools I Used
ChatGPT – Scriptwriting and creative direction
OpenArt – Character design and AI animation
ElevenLabs – Voice generation for narration
iMovie (Mac) – Final editing and assembl
Explore My World
I possess an insatiable curiosity, which has driven me to explore diverse sectors throughout my career journey.
