Though I have almost zero experience doing so, the idea of creating beautiful "type" without any actual typing is quite intriguing. So...I decided to test the waters with a simple journal cover makeover.
To start, I found the journal I wanted and measured the available design space. Using a pad of graph paper, I blocked off the square where my design needed to fit and roughly sketched the proverb out. I came across this verse a few months back and for a perfectionist like me, it is a great perspective to remind myself of. (Also, pretty appropriate for my first attempt at something new!) On the right, you can see the grid lines I drew on the journal cover to transfer the design over and (hopefully) keep the proportions correct.
Next, I re-drew the verse onto the journal, cleaned it up a bit, and traced over it with Sharpie.
The final step was to embellish the letters a little and add a simple free-hand design on the folding cover flap. It certainly isn't perfect but given the subject matter, I'm very pleased!
Definitely more time-consuming than some Photoshop projects, but hand-lettered design is going in the "fun crafts to practice" column! Any experience with hand-lettering your own projects? Tips for a noob?
So incredibly beautiful! Wow!!!
ReplyDeleteWe are seriously kindred spirits. I love typography and lettering. A while back when we were helping my parents move, I found a lettering/typography textbook that my mom had in college in the early 1970s. SO much fun to look through! When we eventually build that apartment-above-the-garage and you move in (you know, after you and Strider have lived in your new state for a while and decide to move again), you can borrow it. ;)
ReplyDeleteI should also tell you that although I'm not a big commenter, I have been thoroughly enjoying your blog. After reading your post mentioning "The Nesting Place" I promptly purchased the book. It was just what I needed to read to inspire me to "just do it" and make some changes at home! (The fact that in T-5 weeks or so I'll be returning from the hospital with an EXTERNAL child instead of an internal one is also good motivation to make some changes... yeah.)
And I just added Julia Child's book to my wishlist. Now, off to cook something...