This thesis centers on the study of the design principles used in creating hand-drawn effects and how they can be applied to computer-generated 3D effects. By studying the rich history of hand-drawn effects animation, artists working on computer-generated films can enhance the emotional impact and visual appeal of their effects without devoting years to creating hand-drawn effects. From reference clips of animated effects and writings by artists, a list of aesthetic guidelines for the production of stylized effects is generated. A series of case study animations is created to demonstrate how these guidelines can be used to create effects in various styles and of various elements.