As designers it will help us to think of drawing as serving two functions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 – To carefully construct and complete a piece of artwork<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIf you want to draw: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Hand lettering<\/strong><\/li>
- Graphic novels<\/strong><\/li>
- Cartoons<\/strong><\/li>
- Character designs<\/strong><\/li>
- Portraiture<\/strong><\/li>
- Illustration and art-related work <\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
you would require a good level of drawing and rendering skill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So for function 1, let’s call this drawing to render art<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2 – To think about a design idea and communicate it visually <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIf you’re conceptualising design ideas, perhaps for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Logo designs<\/strong><\/li>
- Magazine layouts<\/strong><\/li>
- Storyboards<\/strong><\/li>
- Web layouts <\/strong><\/li>
- Advertisement posters <\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
you will require a certain degree of skill in sketching and if you are presenting design direction for other creatives to follow, you’ll require skills in scamping – also referred to as drafting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So for function 2, let’s call this drawing to design <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So we have two functions there:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 – Drawing to render art<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n2 – Drawing to design <\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nAs a designer it will help to think about drawing in this regard because, as a designer, you should only really be concerned with drawing to design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my experience a designer should have good skills at drawing to design, but don’t necessarily need to have good skills at drawing to render art.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIn the design industry today, most designers won’t be required to create finished pieces of artwork through drawing, but will always be required to come up with creative ideas and concepts for \u2018design\u2019 and will often express them through sketches and scamps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now in a professional environment, like a design agency, any design work with heavy illustrative execution would normally be tasked to an illustrator who specialises in drawing to render art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re learning to become a designer I would say \u2018focus on drawing to design\u2019. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIf you can bring your thoughts and ideas from your mind and project them onto paper, you can practice design. To sketch and think visually is the essence of design. This is one of the most important and creative parts of the design process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sparks happen on the page! During the sketching process ideas are invented, tested, crafted, discovered and start to shape a direction, concept or possible design solution.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nYou should only get on the computer when you have an idea on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what is the difference between sketching and scamping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sketching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Rough](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Sketches](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_2-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Logomark](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_3-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Various](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_4-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnd again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Logomark](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_5-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/DRAWING_6-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWell, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n![\"2D](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/p_2-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Wireframe](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/p_3-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Wireframe](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/p_4-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Layout](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/p_5-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLayouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Typography](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/p_1-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Graphic](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/1-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGraphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Black](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-2-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Correction](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-3-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Coloured](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-4-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Coloured](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-5-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNow depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Layout](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-6-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Graphic](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/e-7-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThese tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nDrawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nEvery time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThey are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_2-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLooking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_3-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_4-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Leaflet](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_5-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Poster](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_6-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Advert](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_7-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Multi-page](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_8-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Multi-page](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_9-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Business](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_10-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\na letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Letterhead](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_11-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nand brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Brochure](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_12-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Brochure](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/SCAMP_13-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFirst, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Hand-drawn](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThen draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Refined](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-2-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"More](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-3-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"More](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-4-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Coloured](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-5-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Computer-coloured](\"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/demo-6-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\nAt university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSo what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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you would require a good level of drawing and rendering skill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So for function 1, let’s call this drawing to render art<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2 – To think about a design idea and communicate it visually <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIf you’re conceptualising design ideas, perhaps for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Logo designs<\/strong><\/li>
- Magazine layouts<\/strong><\/li>
- Storyboards<\/strong><\/li>
- Web layouts <\/strong><\/li>
- Advertisement posters <\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
you will require a certain degree of skill in sketching and if you are presenting design direction for other creatives to follow, you’ll require skills in scamping – also referred to as drafting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So for function 2, let’s call this drawing to design <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So we have two functions there:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 – Drawing to render art<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n2 – Drawing to design <\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nAs a designer it will help to think about drawing in this regard because, as a designer, you should only really be concerned with drawing to design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my experience a designer should have good skills at drawing to design, but don’t necessarily need to have good skills at drawing to render art.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIn the design industry today, most designers won’t be required to create finished pieces of artwork through drawing, but will always be required to come up with creative ideas and concepts for \u2018design\u2019 and will often express them through sketches and scamps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now in a professional environment, like a design agency, any design work with heavy illustrative execution would normally be tasked to an illustrator who specialises in drawing to render art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re learning to become a designer I would say \u2018focus on drawing to design\u2019. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIf you can bring your thoughts and ideas from your mind and project them onto paper, you can practice design. To sketch and think visually is the essence of design. This is one of the most important and creative parts of the design process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sparks happen on the page! During the sketching process ideas are invented, tested, crafted, discovered and start to shape a direction, concept or possible design solution.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nYou should only get on the computer when you have an idea on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what is the difference between sketching and scamping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sketching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnd again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWell, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLayouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGraphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNow depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThese tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nDrawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nEvery time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThey are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLooking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\na letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nand brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFirst, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThen draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\nAt university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSo what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Are drawing skills really necessary to be a graphic designer? If so, how good do you need to be?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,87],"tags":[94],"class_list":["post-3295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-video","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-design","category-design-q-a","tag-design-qa","post_format-post-format-video"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3295"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3387,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions\/3387"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
you will require a certain degree of skill in sketching and if you are presenting design direction for other creatives to follow, you’ll require skills in scamping – also referred to as drafting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So for function 2, let’s call this drawing to design <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So we have two functions there:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 – Drawing to render art<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n2 – Drawing to design <\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nAs a designer it will help to think about drawing in this regard because, as a designer, you should only really be concerned with drawing to design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my experience a designer should have good skills at drawing to design, but don’t necessarily need to have good skills at drawing to render art.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIn the design industry today, most designers won’t be required to create finished pieces of artwork through drawing, but will always be required to come up with creative ideas and concepts for \u2018design\u2019 and will often express them through sketches and scamps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now in a professional environment, like a design agency, any design work with heavy illustrative execution would normally be tasked to an illustrator who specialises in drawing to render art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re learning to become a designer I would say \u2018focus on drawing to design\u2019. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIf you can bring your thoughts and ideas from your mind and project them onto paper, you can practice design. To sketch and think visually is the essence of design. This is one of the most important and creative parts of the design process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sparks happen on the page! During the sketching process ideas are invented, tested, crafted, discovered and start to shape a direction, concept or possible design solution.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nYou should only get on the computer when you have an idea on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what is the difference between sketching and scamping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sketching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnd again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWell, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLayouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGraphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNow depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThese tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nDrawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nEvery time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThey are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLooking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\na letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nand brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFirst, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThen draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\nAt university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSo what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Are drawing skills really necessary to be a graphic designer? If so, how good do you need to be?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,87],"tags":[94],"class_list":["post-3295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-video","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-design","category-design-q-a","tag-design-qa","post_format-post-format-video"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3295"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3387,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions\/3387"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
As a designer it will help to think about drawing in this regard because, as a designer, you should only really be concerned with drawing to design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my experience a designer should have good skills at drawing to design, but don’t necessarily need to have good skills at drawing to render art.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIn the design industry today, most designers won’t be required to create finished pieces of artwork through drawing, but will always be required to come up with creative ideas and concepts for \u2018design\u2019 and will often express them through sketches and scamps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now in a professional environment, like a design agency, any design work with heavy illustrative execution would normally be tasked to an illustrator who specialises in drawing to render art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re learning to become a designer I would say \u2018focus on drawing to design\u2019. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nIf you can bring your thoughts and ideas from your mind and project them onto paper, you can practice design. To sketch and think visually is the essence of design. This is one of the most important and creative parts of the design process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sparks happen on the page! During the sketching process ideas are invented, tested, crafted, discovered and start to shape a direction, concept or possible design solution.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nYou should only get on the computer when you have an idea on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what is the difference between sketching and scamping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sketching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnd again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWell, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLayouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGraphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNow depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThese tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nDrawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nEvery time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThey are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLooking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\na letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nand brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFirst, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThen draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\nAt university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSo what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Are drawing skills really necessary to be a graphic designer? If so, how good do you need to be?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,87],"tags":[94],"class_list":["post-3295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-video","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-design","category-design-q-a","tag-design-qa","post_format-post-format-video"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3295"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3387,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions\/3387"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
If you can bring your thoughts and ideas from your mind and project them onto paper, you can practice design. To sketch and think visually is the essence of design. This is one of the most important and creative parts of the design process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sparks happen on the page! During the sketching process ideas are invented, tested, crafted, discovered and start to shape a direction, concept or possible design solution.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nYou should only get on the computer when you have an idea on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what is the difference between sketching and scamping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sketching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnd again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWell, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLayouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGraphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRange of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNow depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThese tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nDrawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nEvery time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSo the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThey are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLooking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNext we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\na letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nand brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFirst, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThen draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\nAt university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nSo what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Are drawing skills really necessary to be a graphic designer? If so, how good do you need to be?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,87],"tags":[94],"class_list":["post-3295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-video","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-design","category-design-q-a","tag-design-qa","post_format-post-format-video"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3295"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3387,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions\/3387"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
So the first type of drawing a designer should be well practised at is sketching. To be able to sketch, you will be able to communicate your ideas visually. Sketching is a great method to render your imagination fast and bring your initial ideas out of your mind to rule out anything you feel may or may not work, and to progress and evolve ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So let’s take a looks at some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First we have some rough sketches for some page layout ideas for a brochure, looking at possible image and typesetting compositions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, we have some sketches for a logotype design exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, we have another example for a logomark design based on the DNA structure looking at how it may move, grow and change to develop multiple logo permutations to create a logo system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This next logotype design example is exploring various routes and ideas<\/p>\n\n\n\n And again, design sketches for a logomark, exploring a variation of map tag shapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lastly, we have sketches for a leaflet plan. Here, we are looking at how the design will unfold with possible layout options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, what we see in each example are rough ideas. Here, a designer will be thinking fast and trying to discover and experiment with possible design solutions before working up and developing ideas on the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Each example may be rough, but you can clearly see what the designer is thinking. This is really the level at which you will be required to sketch. To see some more examples of design sketches, simply type \u2018graphic design sketches<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018logo design sketches<\/a>\u2019 into Google images. Here you can see lots more examples to get a better understanding on sketching for design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Well, if you don’t feel confident sketching I would encourage you to practise and harness your technique. If you can nurture your skill in sketching it’s really going to help with your design process. Get a sketch pad or layout pad, take it everywhere you go and sketch your thoughts and design ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shapes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Grids<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Layouts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Typography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sketching is something you can be practising all the time. I have been practising graphic design for over 13 years now and I sketch as much as I can. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To sketch and develop my ideas I typically use a <\/p>\n\n\n\n Graphic pencil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Range of markers, thin, medium and thick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Tipex \/ Correction Pen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Range of coloured markers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Now depending on what type of ideas I am sketching, be it for layout, logos, or patterns, I will use either a clear white graphic layout pad or a grid pad. This simple equipment works really well for me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These tools are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Once I feel an idea is working on paper as a possible design solution, only then will I take it onto the computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Drawing to render a finished idea or creating it on a computer may take hours, whereas a quick sketch can take you minutes. When working in teams sketches can become a discussion point. When you have something visual and tangible in front of you, it makes it easier to talk about the idea with others, such as clients, senior designers or creative directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n ‘Rough layouts sell the idea better than polished ones’ <\/em><\/strong><\/p>Paul Arden<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Every time I am at a meeting, I always sketch initial rough thoughts out and show clients, or other designers. This helps engage them and allows me to see their reactions and get feedback. Many times through this collaborative process, creative solutions have been discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a designer myself that predominantly works on a computer, I find sketching the most organic and fluid part of my thinking. When designing, before I jump onto the computer I usually start on paper, thinking visually, sketching out my ideas and exploring how they may or may not work. Ideas seem to flow much better sketched on paper than trying to build them from scratch on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So the next type of drawing a designer should be well practised in is scamping. In the design industry \u2018scamping\u2019 has quite a practical role. If I want to present initial design ideas at a meeting in a clearer fashion, I will create what is called a \u2018scamp drawing\u2019, also referred to as a draft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Scamps are used in the industry to communicate specific design directions. A scamp can be a simple doodle or a more developed and crafted drawing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They are often clear line drawings and can include colour with markers. You can draw your scamps according to how much you want to communicate and to what detail. These are also used to brief and give visual reference to other creative professionals, such as web developers, 3D modellers, illustrators, photographers, animators or artworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, let’s take a look at some examples. First we have a scamp suggesting the orientation and structure of a leaflet. Here we can see the direction for photography and composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next is another leaflet example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking closer, we can see more clear direction for layout of type and imagery<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next is another scamp example suggesting the layout of a leaflet cover and page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n This scamp gives direction for a photo composition for an advert and to the right is the resulting photo taken from the scamp design<\/p>\n\n\n\n This poster design scamp suggests product and design composition and type layout<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next we have a storyboard scamp for a short advert<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here is another scamp example for a leaflet layout design, which continues onto the next page<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, we have a series of scamps suggesting design direction for a business card<\/p>\n\n\n\n a letterhead<\/p>\n\n\n\n and brochure page layouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, here we have a range of scamps showcasing different styles, techniques and approaches. What they all do is express clear and specific design directions. Compared to the rough sketches, we can see more detail to communicate clearer direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To see some more examples of scamps, simply search for \u2018design scamps<\/a>\u2019 and \u2018advertising scamps<\/a>\u2019 on Google images. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Now unlike sketching, you will require more skill and technique when drawing scamps. When it comes to drawing scamps you want to take a little more time and focus on clarity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n First, draw a design on layout paper using a pencil. This can be really rough, like a simple sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then draw over your pencil sketch with a fine marker with clear lines to simplify your initial sketch: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once complete, rub the pencil away and highlight any focal points of your design with a bold marker to suggest hierarchy, removing any mistakes or errors with tipex \/ correction pen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If the result is still a little rough, trace over the drawing until the end result is clear and precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With my line drawing I can then fill in with colour using markers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Or scan my line drawing onto the computer, clean up and add colour using brushes in Photoshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This technique works well for me, but it does take a little practise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At university or college you will always be encouraged to think about your design as sketches before jumping onto the computer to make the final result. Clients love to see an idea come to life and employers really like to see how you can come up with ideas, so it’s great to have examples of this in your portfolio. This shows that you really think about your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2018Does the graphic designer need drawing skills? <\/p>\n\n\n\n To that, I say;<\/p>\n\n\n\n So what are your thoughts? Do you agree with my conclusion?\u00a0Do you think designers need drawing skills or do you think we can get by without them? Please share your experiences with drawing and sketching and how your lack of drawing or skill in drawing has helped you in your career. I’d also be interested to know what equipment you use to do your drawing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have any other questions regarding design, be sure to pop them in the comment section or email me at creative@garethdavidstudio.com<\/a> and I\u2019ll look to get back to you with a thorough answer. And don’t forget to check out our answers to the other questions our readers have asked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gareth David<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Are drawing skills really necessary to be a graphic designer? If so, how good do you need to be?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,87],"tags":[94],"class_list":["post-3295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-video","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-design","category-design-q-a","tag-design-qa","post_format-post-format-video"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3295"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3387,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3295\/revisions\/3387"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/garethdavidstudio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at sketching?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Practise drawing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSoon, you will be proficient in general shape and form sketching, which will help you sketch rough designs.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNow there are many benefits why you should sketch your ideas before taking them onto the computer.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Scamping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Because these drawings are used to give clear design direction, they are typically more refined than the rough sketches. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSo how do you become good at drawing scamps?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Draw and trace<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSkill in drawing for design will really benefit you in the industry<\/strong>!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
To conclude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Every designer should have skills in sketching and scamping, drawing for design, but not necessarily skills in drawing to render art. <\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n