Why Consistency is Key in Brand Design
Building a Cohesive Identity Across Platforms for Long-Term Success
Embracing the Power of Hand-Drawn Ideas in a Digital World
As a graphic designer, I’ve always found comfort in keeping a sketchbook, even in today’s digital world. For me, it’s not just a tool; it’s an essential part of my creative process. I started sketching before diving into digital design, and to this day, it’s still my first step when bringing new ideas to life. Sketching just feels like the right way to explore creativity, as it allows me to ease into a project rather than jumping straight into the computer.
One of the key benefits of sketching is that it offers a “liquid” feel to the process. I can make mistakes freely and truly “brain-dump” my ideas. There’s something about physically drawing that lets me experiment and see what works best without any pressure. It’s also much more organic, which I find helps spark creativity in ways digital tools don’t. Drawing, coloring, and sketching feel so instinctive to a creative mind, almost like therapy in its own right, especially when it comes to designing.
I use my sketchbook for about 20% of a project, and I find that it’s especially helpful when working on designs like wedding crests or custom elements. Sketching these by hand brings a personal touch that digital tools can’t replicate. It’s about feeling the design, which adds a layer of depth to my work before transitioning it to digital. For me, sketching helps make things feel more intimate, and that’s important when it comes to projects that hold sentimental value.
The ability to start over with just an eraser also gives me a sense of freedom. While Adobe software offers similar restart options, there’s something mental about the flexibility of paper. It feels like I can truly begin fresh without any constraints. That freedom is something I’ve always cherished and has kept me coming back to my sketchbook.
In my experience, sketching is an indispensable part of the creative process, even in the digital age. It helps me connect with my ideas on a deeper level and makes the entire design journey feel more human. And that’s why I still keep a sketchbook; it’s an essential tool for fostering creativity and staying grounded in my craft. As much as digital tools make our work faster and more efficient, the sketchbook remains a vital source of inspiration, creativity, and freedom.
Kensley is a professional graphic designer and founder of Honey B Print + Pixel, where she specializes in branding, logo design, and visual storytelling. With over 5 years of experience, she’s passionate about creating thoughtful design solutions and delivering organized, high-quality work that makes an impact.
Building a Cohesive Identity Across Platforms for Long-Term Success
Setting The Tone For a Stress-free Design Partnership From The Very Beginning
Tips for Streamlining Your File Delivery Process as a Graphic Designer