When the sketch looks finished, I check out the overall feeling of the image. If a solid line looks faded in spots, I reuse the straight-edge ruler and freshen up the line. While I sketch and fill in the shadows of the sketch, the graphite smudges somewhat making white spots grayer than they should be. I use a good eraser to highlight those areas that need whitening. The contrasts between dark and light enhance the overall look of the piece.
After all is done, I sign my work and date it. Not all artists will date their work, but that has been my choice. If the picture is unbalanced-looking, the signature goes in a place to balance it out.
As you see in this picture, the weight of the design is to the left. I have done this purposely so that I can use the lighter part of the sky to superimpose lettering on the card in the future.
The picture is now ready for my graphic designer. The designer will scan the picture to her computer. The program on her computer will allow her to place the image of this picture on a card. She sends it to me for approval. If there are improvements to make, we consult and decide on them. When the project is finished, the digital image is sent to me and in most cases it is added to our website store as one of our products. I take the card image to the printer to make the product.
I hope you have enjoyed this side-by-side time as we witness the birth of a card.
photo credit:Deena Hall
photo credit:Deena Hall
Deena Hall says
it’s such a gorgeous sketch, Mom. I love it!
grabauheritage says
The card has been printed and I really like the results.
Deena Hall says
oh good! I can’t wait to see it!