I love making things. The thrill of the "Ooh! That's a cool idea!", the debates of "Hmm... Should I make it this way or that?", even the "Oh, that's not going to work... Arrgg!" - and of course, the best part is "Wow! That came out perfect!"
Sometimes that process takes a couple of days from start to finish. Sometimes, a few months, or a lot. Sometimes I know exactly how I want it to turn out, and sometimes I have a vague Idea. Usually, I start with some scribbles. Lots of scribbles. The best scribbles are done during meetings. Mark my words.
Yeah, that's my work-in-progress and inspiration board (both, fairly tidy, not their usual state). And yes, that's a drawing of me galloping away on a Fenwick, drawn by my friend
Carrie.
The designs are finalized (these are the stamp designs I've just completed). I cleaned them up digitally to get a crisp, clean line and on my
Cintiq.
I'm very particular - I need everything to be of precise size, shape and color. Many measurements need to be taken - in this case: line thickness for the stamps, stamp size and box sizes (for a future product!)
Then, it's testing time. I make or order most materials in bulk, so trying out what the end result will look like before ordering is important. I can get samples of some materials, then try different ways of putting them together. If I can't - I improvise!
And when all the planning, doodling, debating and testing is done - all that's left to do is put things together - and get them to you!
Hooray! A complete new product is born... and I go back to my sketchbook, to decide on what to make next.
What is your work process? Ever made a post like this? Share it in the comments, we'd love to see!
Have a great new school year!
Yours truly,
Michal
