Episode 417: Illustration for Meetings with Ashton Rodenhiser

Posted on by Carina Gardner Leave a comment

Welcome to the Make and Design Podcast Episode 417: Illustration for Meetings with Ashton Rodenhiser. 

On this podcast episode Carina chats with Ashton Rodenhiser, a professional sketch-noter who provides graphic notes in the form of drawings in meetings, strategic planning sessions or conferences. Basically any place where someone is conveying information to a group or having a conversation about something.

 

Carina learns about the fascinating process of taking notes using drawings in order to more clearly remember the ideas and information presented in meetings. Ashton can do this in all types of business environments and industries. She does research for each environment to make sure she has some background on the company before she meets with her client. 

 

Carina and Ashton discuss Ashton’s process and how she knows what type of graphic to use while doing it on the fly. Ashton explains that she has a bank of images in her mind that she already knows how to draw and is able to quickly pull from those images. She explains that building your muscle memory in this way allows you to draw similar things to illustrate similar ideas. Sometimes she uses icons in one presentation and a lot of people in others. Combining her sketching skills with humor is one of the things that attracts clients, she says.

 

Sketchnotes combine text and simple images to communicate information quickly and memorably. Notetaking done this way is scientifically proven to help notetakers retain

 information eight times better than just the traditional writing method. It allows the observer to view the conversation in illustrations while they are listening to the presentation of information. This enables the listener to engage in the moment as well as allowing them to have something tangible to refer back to after the meeting is over.

 

Ashton has built an entire career of attending meetings to help communicators clearly explain processes, ideas and information while helping listeners clearly understand the message. She also teaches others interested in using this method how to listen, synthesize ideas and translate them into drawing form. Listen in if you are interested in learning more about this fascinating subject.

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

 

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Top 10 Episodes: Insights and Strategies for Aspiring Designers and Entrepreneurs

Posted on by Carina Gardner Leave a comment

During these videos Carina talks about the exciting world of creative entrepreneurship. Knowing your stuff can make all the difference! Whether you’re just starting out as a surface pattern designer or dreaming of  turning your hobbies into a business, soaking up wisdom from those who’ve been there can be a game-changer!

  1. Episode 118: Three Ways You Can Become The Best Surface Pattern Designer (That You Haven’t Heard Of)

Carina shares three super cool strategies to help budding surface pattern designers step up their game. What makes this video special? It’s packed with fresh ideas you probably haven’t heard before. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, this episode will inspire you and give you that extra push to become a top-notch designer. If you’re eager to boost your design skills, you won’t want to miss this!

  1. Episode 150: How Your Silhouette or Cricut Machine Could Be Making You Money

Ever dreamt of turning your hobbies into a money-making gig? Well, in this episode Carina talks about how you can do just that with your Silhouette or Cricut machines! From making custom goodies to creating unique designs, it dives deep into the many ways you can cash in on your creative side. Get inspired and motivated to turn your passion into cold, hard cash!

  1. Episode 167: How To Be a Surface Pattern Designer Without Going Back To College

If you’re feeling a bit unsure about diving into formal design education, don’t worry! In this episode, Carina’s got your back with loads of encouragement and down-to-earth tips. We’ll talk about the power of learning on your terms, building up those skills, and making the most of all the awesome stuff you can find online. Get ready to feel empowered to carve out your path in the exciting world of surface pattern design!

  1. Episode 186: Three Ways to Earn Money as a Surface Pattern Designer

Ready to explore the world of financial success? In this episode, Carina is diving into three awesome ways for surface pattern designers to make your creative work profitable! 

Whether it’s through licensing deals or freelancing gigs, we’ve got all the insider tips to help you boost your income and make the most of your talents. Get excited to learn how to maximize your earning potential and turn your passion into profit.

  1. Episode 260: What Prevents You from Creating

Hey there, ever find yourself stuck in a creative rut? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this episode, Carina is  diving deep into those pesky creative blocks that all designers and entrepreneurs face. Get ready to unleash your full creative potential and tackle any hurdle that comes your way!

                                                                                                                                                                                                        6. Episode 163: How To Start Your Surface Pattern Design Business

Starting your own business can feel like a big leap, but don’t worry – this episode answers all your questions! Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of surface pattern design or ready to dive in headfirst, Carina has you covered with all the tips and tricks you need. 

From nailing down your brand to spreading the word with savvy marketing, we’ll walk you through every step of the journey. Get ready to turn your dreams into reality with this comprehensive guide to launching your very own venture!

  1. Episode 204: Two Reasons Crafters Should Design for their Cricut and Silhouette Machines

Crafters possess a unique advantage when it comes to designing for cutting machines like Cricut and Silhouette. In this episode Carina highlights the symbiotic relationship between crafting and machine design, underscoring the potential for synergy and innovation in this market.

  1. Episode 261: Do You Have a Hobby or a Business?

Ever wondered about the difference between turning your hobby into a business? Well, in this episode, Carina dives into that topic! We’ll challenge you to see your creative passions from a business perspective, setting you up for success in making money and keeping things going strong for the long haul!

  1. Episode 275: Two Things That Will Make You a Great Designer

This episode delves into the two essential qualities that define exceptional designers: a willingness to innovate and a deep understanding of end-user needs. By prioritizing these aspects, aspiring designers can elevate their work to new heights.

  1. Episode 281: Zero to $100,000.00

Join Carina as she shares her inspiring journey of starting her own design business and reaching the impressive milestone of $100,000 in revenue. In this engaging episode, Carina opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned along the way, and the strategies that helped her achieve her goals.

To wrap it up, the top 10 episodes from this series are like a goldmine of tips and tricks for all you budding designers and entrepreneurs out there! Whether you’re looking to unleash your creative genius or figure out the ins and outs of running your own business, these episodes have got you covered. They’re jam-packed with wisdom and inspiration to help you kickstart your journey to success in the exciting world of design and entrepreneurship. So, get ready to dive in, soak up all the knowledge, and start making your dreams a reality!

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at DESIGN BOOTCAMP

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

The Power of Calling Yourself a Designer

Posted on by Carina Gardner Leave a comment

Why do you need the confidence to call yourself a designer?

What is a Designer? What makes someone a designer vs. not a designer? To me a designer is one that takes a concept and brings it to life in various forms. So, if you are creating and putting things together then you are a designer, no matter your skill level.

As designers we all have varying styles, talents, and creative skill sets which make us different from each other, but we all have at least one thing in common and that is the title of “designer.” But why is there a hesitancy to fully embrace this title? Is it fear of judgment, or simply a lack of confidence, or something else? This is something that I hear all the time, “I have Imposter Syndrome”, “Am I good enough”, and “I’m not nearly as good as so and so!” These are all limiting beliefs that will inevitably hold you back if you let them or listen to them. However, it’s time to embrace this title and acknowledge the importance of confidently owning your identity as a designer. Here’s why:

Validation of Your Craft

By calling yourself a designer, you’re not just acknowledging your own abilities, but also validating the countless hours of learning, practice, and dedication you’ve invested in your craft. It’s a recognition of your skills and expertise in shaping ideas, solving problems, and creating impactful visuals that resonate with your audiences. Even if you are just starting out, we learn by doing and everyone has to start somewhere.

 

Empowerment and Self-belief

Confidence breeds success. When you confidently proclaim yourself as a designer, you are more willing to take on new challenges, push your boundaries, and pursue opportunities that align with your passion. This type of thinking will take you places that you may never thought possible. Believing in your abilities opens the door to growth, allowing you to unleash your full potential. When you lack that confidence, you are more likely to stay stagnant and not move forward because you are too scared to try. Many successful designers are where they are today because they had the confidence in themselves to create a career that they love.

 

Credibility in the Industry

Clients, collaborators, and employers are more likely to trust and respect you when you confidently present yourself as a designer. Your self-assurance communicates professionalism and competence, creating confidence in others that you have the skills and expertise to deliver exceptional results. This credibility can lead to more fulfilling projects, higher-quality clients, and increased opportunities for career advancement.


Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

 

Inspiration for Others

Your confidence as a designer not only benefits yourself but also inspires those around you. By proudly owning your identity and showcasing your work with confidence, you become a role model for aspiring designers who may be struggling with their own self-doubt. Your journey serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, showing others that it’s possible to overcome obstacles and thrive in the creative industry. Whether it’s sharing insights, collaborating on projects, or mentoring aspiring designers, your confidence enables you to make meaningful connections and foster a supportive environment where creativity can flourish.

 

So, to all the talented individuals out there who hesitate to call themselves designers, it’s time to shed the doubts and embrace the title with pride. Your creativity, passion, and dedication are what define you as a designer, and by confidently owning your identity, you unlock a world of possibilities for yourself and inspire others to do the same. We all have something to bring to the table with our unique talents. Remember, you are not just a designer—you are a visionary, a problem solver, and a creative. And in my opinion the world could use a little more creativity in it.

 

Is your dream to become a designer? Join our next Design Bootcamp to find out how.

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Turning Creativity into Cash: Simone Bowles’ Profitable Journey with Design Suite

Posted on by Carina Gardner

Simone Bowles, a two-year Design Suite member, discusses with Carina Gardner about the incredible success and money she has made after joining the program in this podcast. She begins by talking about how she chose a career that was not quite creative enough for her.

Simone states, “I read this book by Julia Donaldson called the Artist’s Way, and she said that a lot of people who were creative go into careers that are almost creative.” In a world brimming with opportunities, the journey of fulfilling one’s creative and entrepreneurial aspirations can often feel like a daunting task. Simone took a leap of faith that many are afraid to do, leaving her past career and pursuing her creative dreams by joining the Design Suite program, tailored for aspiring designers who want to make money with their creations.

“In terms of actual graphic design, I knew nothing,” Simone explains, “I came from a world that was so different. [I felt like] the imposter, like ‘how am I going to do this?’ …But then I [remembered] that they chose me for a reason… It grew me in so many ways… and if you were to ask me the year before ‘would I do freelance graphic design’, it would be a definite no… I thought it would be so hard.”

Simone went into the program with hardly any experience of creative design. However, as the process went on for her, passion was ignited, breathing life into her artistic visions. She quickly found a love for what she was doing. She explained that, “This is for me, I want all of the things,” as the program went on for her. After the first year of the program, there was so much that Simone learned. She felt the strong desire to continue for another year, allowing her to make lots of money from this. “Honestly I feel like I can call myself a designer now… once you do, the jobs come!” Opportunity was met with hard work, and Simone’s work took off.

When talking about her success, Simone stated, “Just be open to the path that [comes] to you. If you try to go down one road you get so much resistance… I made the money within my second year [of the program]… I made enough to pay for the kids’ school tuition which isn’t cheap… and that was in my second year!”

 

 

After the decision was made to pursue this dream of Simone’s, she was rewarded. Design Suite is the catalyst for inspiration to make money, and Simone did just that in her second year of the journey. She was extremely grateful and emotional over the success she has reaped in the podcast when explaining the money she made to pay for the tuition of her kids’ educations. You truly get what you pay for when you join the Design Suite courses, along with opportunity and fulfillment bursting at the seams.

Not only did Simone make a great amount of money, she also built incredible relationships with those in the Design Suite community, which is huge. Simone goes on to say, “It’s key… I just know people I can go to who are now friends of mine… in the sewing world… in the patent world… in the papercraft world… that is gold.” She continues by saying, “There’s so many things [that make Design Suite good value]… It really is the community and the information… Design Suite has those supports.”

From all across the globe, there are members of the Design Suite program, and these members build one another up, offer advice, help, and friendship, taking things to a more meaningful level through this program. This brings that human connection that is missing in a lot of programs.

 

The opportunities are endless when becoming a member of Design Suite and embarking on the journey, allowing for personal and professional growth. The program serves as a catalyst for self-discovery, empowering individuals to leverage their strengths and carry out their niches in the creative landscape. Simone Bowles is an excellent example of this coming to reality.

 

To access Simone’s business and creations, you can follow her on Instagram: @_simonebowles_  or find her on Etsy: SBPARTYPRINTABLES.

If you want to watch the entire interview with Simone here:  

 

Or listen to the podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2040698/14510635-episode-415-making-money-as-a-designer-with-simone-bowles.mp3?download=true

 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores