Every designer has a certain way they like to work. Illustrators will work in a completely different manner to a typographer. For each individual, different ways of working means totally different ways of creating. This begs the question, what does a designer need to carry out their trade? Are there staple items for everyone or specifics for each specialty?
To start things off, I looked through my backpack and this is what I found...
Laptop backpack
I received a Incase Backpack for MacBook Pro as a Christmas present, and have been using it ever since. The criteria was a bag that could hold a laptop, my iPad, and a few books. This selection ticked all the boxes, and always provide excellent protection for my laptop.
1. A5 Visual art diary (V.A.D)
I can't live without my diary or V.A.D. It's where I start off any design work. It started in University, and I have continued using it.
Filled with Uni notes from various subjects, random sketches, and blog post ideas, flicking through the pages is like looking at a slice of my life. It doesn't have to be an expensive diary, I did have a plain moleskine book once, but I felt due to the expensiveness of the book I only used it on special occasions, which isn't really the point.
2. Various drawing implements
What's the use of a V.A.D without anything to draw with? My trusty Stabilo point 88 set, which rolls up into a compact cylinder when not needed, is always stashed in my backpack. Of course, you don't have to spend the money on 25 colors you won't use, but who knows when a full selection may come in helpful?
If I have the money for something special, my favoured choice of illustration medium is conte crayon. The site is French, but this is my favorite brand. I cram a can of fixative in my backpack too, so my work doesn't smudge. To finish it off, I also have a few 0.7mm pacers/mechanical pencils - Everyone needs some kind of pencil in their backpack.
3. MacBook Pro
The extra workroom on screen on a 15" is so beneficial for a graphic designer, and I got a great deal - a slightly older model for the price of the newer version of the 13" model. Ask your local Apple store or reseller to see if they will do you a deal.
Although it's a bit more awkward to carry around, and I am yet to find a colorful hard case for it, I couldn't do half the stuff required for my job without it.
Equipped with the creative suite, I'm able to jump from HTML to animation work quickly and efficiently. I also have Facebook open and a Word document for blog posts running side by side as part of my workflow.
All you really need is a laptop with enough space on the desktop that you find comfortable, it could be a Mac or another brand.
4. A grid book
I'm interested in modular typography; typography made up of basic shapes. With my strong mathematical design sensibilities (you won't see my designs deviating from the grid unless it calls for it), having the grid is a great benefit. I need two squares for this, while three for that - it helps get the job done every time!
5. Sugar High
Which ever your poison - caffeine or sugar - cafes provide a great third space to work and refuel. Many have free wifi so can be an office away from the office if you want a change of scene.
Sometimes I need a little sugar to stoke the creative fires. If I'm working in the office at Surry Hills, I find some time in the day to go to Sparkle Cupcakery a few blocks away and get one of their delicious salted caramel cupcakes to give me my sugar boost. If not, some Skittles or other candy/sweet/sugary will do the job just fine.
I'm sure you will find similarities, and points of difference, between my work process and yours, just by looking at what I have in my backpack. So what are your essential design tools? Let me know in the comments below.
Thanks for sharing your top tips for designer essentials, Josh!
Want more?
If you're looking to develop a career in the design industry, these articles may help:
10 Top Creative Websites To Find Design Inspiration
Six Reasons Why Pen And Paper Still Matter In The Design Process
How Joining The DesignCrowd Community Can Help Fast-Track Your Design Career
The 7 Steps of a Professional Design Process
Written by Josh Borja on Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Josh has worked as a graphic designer at DesignCrowd, and is currently an in-house graphic designer for two community groups - Harbour City Bears and Penrith Musical Comedy Company. He credits both groups as being important in helping shape who he is. He says graphic design is a tool getting him to where he wants to be.