The trick to designing a great layout
Why are magazines and books always laid out the same? Even with alternative design, there is a harmony in layout…
Were you an art student with “it”?
There’s always that one big problem in art school, where you spot a few fellow students that you know “have…
How I learned to be REALLY creative
As I grew up, being a “creative child,” which was the description my school psychologist used to explain why I…
Should creatives be unionized or earn certification?
Every now and then, on some blog or design group, someone brings up the question of designers unionizing or having…
Certifications for U.S. designers to become law in 2015
The much talked about step of creating professional certification for graphic/web designers looks like it will become a reality in…
QR codes turn dynamic
When I write about the black and white, crossword puzzle-like QR code, I feel like I’m talking about the stone…
How to get TOUGH with clients
I recently received a call from a young designer who I met when she was in art school. I reviewed…
“You ruined the project!”
Who said that? Both parties often do. Both the client and the designer often accuse each other of ruining a…
Schoolhouse Rock!: 40th anniversary of the best animated innovation ever!
Forty years ago this coming Sunday (January 13th 1973), the American Broadcast Company added to its lineup of Saturday morning…
Copyright hell: toy and packaging design ripoffs
When I walk into a design studio, there are several things I know I’ll see; tattoos, piercings and toys… lots…
Barry Blotter and the iCurse
“Barry, wake up!” screamed Winny but he just groaned and pulled up the old comforter over his head. It was…
How to use QR codes for the holidays (and other celebrations)
The wonders of the QR code have been proved over and over for marketing and customer engagement. You see them…
What designers want
“Whew!” exclaimed a recent client when he finally agreed to pay his entire fee, “I didn’t know artistic-types were such…
Are corporate logo changes always necessary?
It seems that everyone is on the logo change bandwagon. Why are so many companies choosing now to change logos…
Web Revenge! Dirty tricks for Halloween
My therapist says I’m obsessed with revenge. He’ll be sorry he said that! It’s not that I’m paranoid about all…