Research
The research behind this project consisted of learning about the value of sketching, creating multiple mind maps, and researching binding methods and techniques.
Mind Map activity
For this activity we worked as table groups in choosing a question from a list on the board and creating a min map in an attempt to reach some type of answer to the question. This activity showed me how useful mind mapping can when brainstorming about a topic and sorting out your thoughts.
Binding Methods
The first method I researched was kettle stitch binding. I decided against using this method because of its permanence. I know that different projects throughout the semester will require uses of different types of paper, even for brainstorming, and I hate skipping pages in a sketchbook, so I wanted a binding that would be flexible and allow for me to add and re-order pages as I use the sketchbook
To allow for more flexibility, I looked into a binder ring binding method. I found a version of binder rings that have three rings instead of one which would add more stability, however, I didn’t like how flimsy the book would be when using this method.
‘
Lastly, I continued researching to find a method that allows for growth, flexibility, and functionality and came across this plastic binding. This binding holds the pages together firmly like a spiral-bound notebook, yet opens like binder rings do allowing for both security and flexibility.
Exercises
Mini Sketchbook
This exercise started with a tutorial on Carmen of how to put together a mini sketchbook. Once we folded it together, we filled the pages with answers to different prompts we were given in class. This mini sketchbook got me thinking about ways I could format my final sketchbook and about ways I could incorporate both words and drawings on the pages.
Iterations
When first thinking about the final sketchbook design, I quickly sketched what I wanted mine to look like and started thinking about what size I wanted the pages to be.
Next, I took notes about the binding method I chose and wrote down some ideas for the contents that would go inside the sketchbook.
When thinking about my surprise element, which I would say was one of my larger challenges, I wanted to add it as I use my sketchbook. I like my sketchbooks to be plain so that I can add whatever I want to the pages when I am sketching and creating. I plan to use this sketchbook almost as a scrapbook and include hidden elements and additions throughout each project inside.
Color Palettes
When deciding on the design for the cover of my sketchbook, I narrowed down my color choices to wither pale blues because blue is my favorite color or a neutral color palette because I wanted to keep the aesthetic clean and simple. Ultimately, in the final design, I chose to use a neutral color palette in my design.
Final Adobe Designs
For the front and back covers I planned to etch designs into them that was both simple and meaningful. When sketching, the thing I like to draw the most are flowers so I sketched some flowers for the front cover and then added text in the middle with a font chosen from Adobe Fonts.
Production
Final Sketchbook
For the final sketchbook, I decided to use a plastic binding that’s function is a mix of spiral-bound and binder rings. I chose this binding method because the clear white color fit the neutral aesthetic of my book and the rings open allowing for flexibility with re-arranging and adding pages. For the pages on the inside I chose to use both plain white paper for any notes and sketching and toned gray paper for sketches dealing with color theory. For the front and back covers I decided on using a recycled piece of cardboard, which was thicker than the inside pages, but not to heavy that it would weigh down the sketchbook. Also, the color was perfect for my neutral theme, but I wasn’t able to get to the laser cutter to etch a design into the front as I had planned. In the final product, I also glued a strip of ribbon to the inside of the back cover which functions as a bookmark because I wanted to be able to easily find whatever page I left off on. Overall, my sketchbook fulfills my priorities of having a simple, functional, and flexible sketchbook and I’m looking forward to continually adding to it throughout the semester.
