The Art of Sketching

By Christina Smith

Why do so many people put such a large emphasis on the value of sketching in the design process? Who has time to sketch multiple ideas in today's fast paced work environment? Many designers go directly to the computer, bypassing the sketching phase all together.

In college, all designers are forced to take drawing classes. Many students felt this was a waste of time. Especially since some designers were not able to sketch well. Designers worked on a computer and therefore, didn't need to learn basic drawing skills. Right? Wrong. What many designers didn't realize is that sketching is a great way to quickly flush out a multitude of ideas. Sketching also helps designers establish a basic layout for a brochure or poster.

Personally, I find sketching to be a way of visually expressing a thought. I'm right brained. Therefore, I learn better when I have a visual reference. Sketching is my way of flushing out ideas to get a better sense of what could be a potentially great design. Sketches are preliminary thoughts. I can then take these preliminary thoughts to the computer for a more polished, finished look. Michael DiTullo, a designer for Nike, stated, "Throwing lines down, doodling through a problem, we find new solutions. Through documenting that thinking in drawings we go through the act of evaluating and building on thoughts until they are complete. We push beyond the obvious into the realm of the uncomfortable, where all good things tend to come from."

Having a good idea on paper makes your overall idea much easier to produce on the computer. In addition it saves time and helps you work quickly to produce an amazing piece.  That being said, keep a sketchpad or journal next to you at all times. You never know when you may need it to quickly jot down a few impromptu ideas. Who knows, these sketches may become your greatest design!