It has taken me 38 years to start defining my creative process and accepting that I have any creativity. Growing up in a family of artists can be intimidating. I have found that oil and watercolor aren’t my mediums, but digital design. I try to craft a story with each asset that I create.

My process:

1. Message – I first hone my message. What do I want to say? Who am I talking to? What do I wish them to know or to do? Once I have that firmly established, I move onto Step 2.

1. Color – Is there a brand color palate? If not, which colors fit the message and are contemporary. 70s’ Burnt Orange and Crimson have not YET come back into style.

1. Images – What images do we have to work with? Do we need stock photos? Do the images tightly conform to our message? (No happy children when talking about a workshop on grief, for example.) I also try to make sure that our images are diverse and show a range of body types and people. I want everyone to see themselves and relate in our message.

1. Typography – Is there a standard web font and print font? I try to mix decorative and either serif or sans serif fonts, but never combine more than two fonts on a project.

1. Accessibility and Inclusion – Is the asset accessible for those who have disabilities? Is there alt-text and captions? Are the colors and shadows safe for those with vision or migraine problems? (see Ravelry) Is the typography readable for those with vision or dyslexia?

Once I run through my list, start building the asset. Usually, I give it an hour and tear it apart again to make sure I hit these components. Did I succeed in my goal of telling a concise story and evoking the desired response in my audience?

What is your creative process? What should I be considering when building assets?