The process, what’s involved…
Here’s a little insight
It was only when I discovered lino cutting and printing that the aesthetic for Flowers for Susie as you see it today began to form in my head. But this is only part of the story, here you can see some the important processes involved in developing every design…
The sketch…
All of my designs start as a little sketch in my sketchbook. This is the most important part of the process as this is where the ideas are born and then refined ready for Lino cut…
The lino cut…
The Lino Cut is a part of the process that gives the designs their style. I cut lino in a simplistic modern soft graphic style which is quite different to most lino printers. This modern interpretation of Mid-Century pattern gives my work a warm sense of nostalgia combined with a contemporary aesthetic.
The lino print…
The lino print is the design in it’s raw state. It’s when I check the cuts are right and that the patterns work. By using a single block colour I can digitize the design and refine it before moving on to exploring the best colours for the design.
Colour development
Colour is a key part of the design. Colour brings the patterns and motifs to life, it’s a big part of my Mid-Century aesthetic (it’s also how I ensure my designs maintain a contemporary feel). I love this part of the process as it’s quite playful and fun.
Colour reviews
A more challenging part of what I do is colour review. Within my studio (on cards and art prints) the control is easy, but when outsourcing my homeware products I’m working with small UK factories, each of which have their own processes which interpret my palette in different ways. The challenge is to find a balance which allows for the variations of different materials to sit alongside each other in harmony, whilst maintaining my brand values. It takes time (and compromise), but it is absolutely crucial to maintaining continuity as future products are developed.
Meeting customers
Whilst I worked as a designer of retail products for many years, this business is very much smaller and so different in all aspects. So meeting my growing loyal tribe is an invaluable part of the process and I love it; hearing their comments, seeing who buys what, enjoying their reactions gives me a real buzz and is invaluable in helping me grow. It helps me decide how I give my time to my business and what I focus on. I never met the end customer within my previous roles and this is a really lovely part of being an independent business owner.