Visuals

This is a quick sketch I made in order to mimic what my actual sketchbook would look like.

This is the front cover of my sketchbook.

This is the back cover of my sketchbook.

This is an example page within my sketchbook.

Project Statement

This project explored the use of different materials, machines, and construction methods in order to produce a handmade sketchbook. I have a bad track record with sketchbooks because I tend to overthink what I draw and stop using them. Keeping this in mind, I focused on having a balance between functionality and creativity when I was designing this one. I used simple, plastic binding and sturdy materials like cardboard and vinyl for the covers. The idea of using a vinyl record as my cover came to mind not long after we were introduced to this project. Trying to keep costs at a minimum, I went to a thrift store and bought a couple for only a few dollars. Wanting to keep the theme consistent, I also used the cardboard covers the records I bought came in to create a collage on the back of my sketchbook. I wanted a strong color scheme to create harmony across the whole end product so carefully picked squares that matched each other and designed the cover circle to match the retro look of the collage.

Process

View detailed project process at Sketchbook: Process

Reflection

Since the beginning of my design career in high school, no project has brought me more joy, use, or made me as proud of myself as this one did. The process from start to finish was challenging. Cutting the vinyl record presents its challenges quite obviously because it’s a toxic material and its fumes can be extremely dangerous to breathe in while it’s being cut. Thus, I couldn’t use any fancy machines to help with this process and had to instead use scissors very, very slowly to ensure it wouldn’t chip or split anywhere. Getting the pages cut was testing as well due to the large and unique shape they were. When it was all said and done, however, it was worth it. This theme behind my sketchbook is really personal to me because I’ve been collecting vinyl records and creating collages like the one on my back cover for as long as I can remember. So, showing it off to my friends as something that’s a part of me but also extremely practical is such a cool feeling. Beyond this, I also learned and refined a lot of good skills. I had never used a Cricut prior to this project so using one was really interesting and something I look forward to doing again in the future. Through this, I also remembered the importance of patience and practice if things don’t go exactly the way they’re supposed to.