This module has been a massive learning curve for me more than any other. I now have a far greater knowledge and appreciation of the various print processes, but more than this I understand how good I need to be in order to work in this industry.
I was initially scared of how much I needed to know but on reflection I have learned a great deal to do with printer profiles, use of spot colour, printer marks, stock and paper styles etc. On top of all this how these rules can be applied to various programmes, I found the In Design sessions with Mike very useful. As well as those sessions, going off the print processes, type with Graham gave me a much deeper understanding of how letter forms can be used to greater effect by use of kerning and layout etc.
Overall throughout the brief there have been various highs and lows, things I have enjoyed others that went wrong i'm going to start with the good. What I have enjoyed the most about this project is creating a range this has effectively given me a huge canvas to throw my ideas out and get creative, but more than this to let my imagination run riot. I have enjoyed the drawing and designing of this project, watching it all come together has been exciting and satisfying. I have also enjoyed some of the print processes this has brought about especial foil blocking not only for the nice finish it offers but the huge creative possibility that can be realised such as making my own sweet wrappers, for me a big highlight of the brief.
Now lets talk about the lows the things I didn’t enjoy and most of all could and should have done better. My biggest mistake this brief was not giving myself enough time especial towards the end. I really wish I had made many of my design decisions earlier than I did this would have given me more time to refine them and iron out any mistakes. My reaccuring thought as the deadline drew nearer was if only I had another week how much better could it have been. This is a cruel truth one that haunts you in the end but in knowing this I can now do something about it and that is to, make sure it never happens again. So its fair to say my time management was certainly a bit out although I pulled it together at the end I felt there was a lot more I could have achieved.
I was also a little disappointed with some of my crafting skills again I put this down to me not leaving myself enough time to have a re run. Some of my finishing was a little untidy especially on the gift box. Although I was happy with the overall artwork and design certain parts could have been put together with more care such as the seal at the top of the box and the cutting around the canopy. Looking back I would have done things differently such as the inside I would not have left as much excess space around the top and sides padding my box out for a greater aesthetic and feel. This attention to detail and greater finishing is something I need to improve on.
Moving away from all that doom and gloom there were elements I was happy with, one being the actual design work and use of colour I felt these design decisions made my overall packaging aesthetically pleasing across the range. One element of the design process I certainly feel I have come on leaps and bounds is my research skills. Compared to last year I have developed more forms of research and am better at displaying and applying relevant information to my practice and general design decisions.
Overall I think this module has got me back on track, there have been low moments but altogether I have gained a great deal of knowledge and confidence to move on and improve.
