My Journey as a Graphic Designer
By: Katie McIntosh, EHL’s Design Lead
In 2020, the year that changed most of our lives, I decided to pursue something that I had always been interested in but never had the time to focus on - graphic design and illustrations. In my day job, I work in the fashion industry and I am a garment technologist. Within my job, I have always had a level of creativity. However, I was looking for a platform where I could be as creative as I liked with whatever ideas sprung to mind. I had been creating digital illustrations using a vector program and I decided to take the leap and create my very own design Instagram page. I have been sharing my work on this page for the last year and I truly enjoy interacting with other designers and artists.
I have recently moved from using vector software on the laptop to procreate on the iPad. This adjustment took a bit of getting used to as anyone who has ever used a vector program knows how different it is from drawing with a pen! I will always be drawn back to vectors as it is something I have used on and off for years in my day job. However, I am currently really enjoying the freedom and speed of using procreate and how easy it is to design on the go. I often find myself doodling or finishing designs on my commute to work because my iPad is so easy to carry around.
For anyone aspiring to pursue graphic design or illustration I would recommend the following;
Create a Pinterest account: Pinterest will become your best friend! Pinterest is great for photo inspiration, color ideas, fun quotes, etc. I spend most of my time on Pinterest looking for ideas and trends for what is popular.
Find a style that suits you: The best thing about being creative with graphics and illustrations is that there is no right or wrong. Take the time to discover your own style and what software/program you find the easiest to use. There is room for everyone so don't think that you need to follow what someone else is doing to do well, just be yourself because that is your power!
Enjoy it! It is really easy to get caught up with thinking about what you should and shouldn't design, the pressure of having to share consistently on social media, and creating ideas of what you think people will like instead of what you enjoy. Focus on what you like to do and what works for you, you will enjoy the process so much more!
If you enjoyed these tips & tricks and would like to connect, feel free to follow my Instagram page @graphicsbykatiem and say hi
