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Description
The School of Design at Jarvis College of Computing and Media is looking for wearables giveaways for prospective students and visitors at specific events. In this project, you will be given a task to design a typographic composition and transfer it over a tote using the heat transfer vinyl (HTV) process. The text should include SoD or the School of Design. You may add other elements to make your design more engaging.
A typographic composition on a tote bag can be a powerful tool to engage the audience and grab viewers' attention outside the school community. Several factors should be considered to create an engaging composition, such as the choice of typeface (Serif/Sans/Display/ Monospace, etc.), color scheme (the tote and vinyl colors), layout (symmetrical/asymmetrical), and message. To attain this goal, you need to research the school's vision/mission, geographical location, and target audiences and design the typographic piece based on your findings.
Please note that this is a hypothetical client-based project and is not a request from the School of Design at DePaul University.
Guidelines
Reading resources
Typography Primer slides ➜ D2L
Typography, Gonzales Crisp, Chapter 2 ➜ excerpt on D2L
Structural Typography ➜ here
Herb Lubalin Study Center ➜ Instagram, Website
Letterform Archive, Online Archive ➜ here
Typo/graphic Posters ➜ here
Adobe Illustrator tutorial on LinkedIn Learning. ➜ here
Siser HTV application tutorial ➜ here
History and Evolution of Typography ➜ here
Rules
For this project, you should use Adobe Illustrator.
The typography should include ‘SoD’ or ‘School of Design.’
You shouldn’t use the DePaul University logo symbol or logotype in your design. Instead, please include ‘At DePaul’ or ‘DePaul University.’
There is no limitation on typeface use.
You are encouraged to include relevant element(s) in your composition as you see fit.
You need to source your blank tote with the model and color of your choice. Art supply stores such as Blick and Michaels usually carry print-ready totes. You can also order it online, but please be considerate regarding shipping time. Additionally, please consider the material compatibility with our HT vinyl here.
There are two colors in this project: A. The tote color, B. HT vinyl color. You are free to choose the colors for both items. However, please note that the Print Lab inventory offers a limited range of HT vinyl colors. If the desired vinyl color is not available in the print lab inventory, you will need to source it elsewhere.
Applying two or more layers of HT vinyl is also possible. See the link for the Siser HT application tutorial video in the resource section for more info.
Please be aware of the limitations of the medium. It is not possible to use color gradients, but you can use halftone techniques to create a similar effect. Additionally, please note that you will be cutting solid-color vinyl, not printing.
The overall dimensions of the design should not be smaller than 6" x 9". Please utilize the space as much as possible and ensure your design can communicate effectively from a distance.
Your concept should be original and unique. Please refrain from copying clip art, using AI image creator, or any other pre-existing images. While you may use reference images as inspiration, it is not acceptable to copy them. Do not use image trace under any circumstances.
Proposal
Please follow all steps on the Project 1 worksheet posted on D2L.
Make a SINGLE pdf file of all pages (crop edges and adjust the contrast of scanned materials) and submit it before the deadline with the proper file name (Last_first-P1.pdf).
Have your copy ready for the proposal session and one-on-one review.
DIGITAL SUBMISSION
Before submitting your project, please ensure that it meets all the requirements in the final project checklist. The checklist will be posted on D2l before each project's deadline.
You need to submit TWO files for this project:
An “.ai” format file that includes your your design.
A “PDF” file that includes your research brief, design strategy, sources of inspiration, and at least three images of your physical product. The images should include one close-up detail shot, one full product shot, and one image that showcases the product being used or in action. (do not use presentation templates)
Save your file in 'lastname_firstname-P1' format.
Submit your project under the project assignment module on the D2L website AND your self-assessment in the comment section.
DOUBLE AND TRIPLE CHECK to ensure your ai/PDF file and self-assessment are up on D2L.
You are required to create a tote bag featuring your own design using heat transfer vinyl (HTV). You are responsible for performing the HTV process yourself at SoD iRL and Print Labs. Projects that have been completed with the assistance of outside sources will not be accepted.
You need to use CDM Print Lab (Daley #511) and IRL space (Daley #310) to execute your project.
It is your responsibility to deliver your project on time. Please be aware that no excuses related to lab availability or equipment will be accepted.
The quality of the HT vinyl process is important, which includes weeding and alignment. Please ensure that both of these are executed with care and precision.
Self-Assessment
You will write this on D2L at the same time you submit your file. Your entry should include the following:
Identify what elements of your design gave you the most problems.
Identify what elements of your design you feel are most successful.
In your opinion, how do you evaluate your performance in this project?
Please focus on discussing your design work and the creative process rather than any struggles or successes related to technology or time management.
Worksheet
Conduct research on the SoD website and explore the campus to identify its visual characteristics. Please take notes.
Write down at least 12 positive words that describe SoD.
Using rough sketches, create a 2"x 2" visual representation of at least eight elements related to SoD/DPU, including its programs and geographical location.
In a paragraph, describe your target audience and how you want your design to communicate with them.
Create a mood board by researching other artists' works and selecting at least six design styles that are relevant to your concept.
Identify your design style with an example from your mood board, such as minimalism, flat design, retro and vintage, grunge, hand-drawn and illustrative, pop art, geometric, 3D, isometric, modern, or art deco.
Make a list of the typefaces you may use in this project.
Determine the possible design dimensions and colors for your tote.Sketch four different compositions and place the text and other visual elements from step 3 in each design if needed.
Select the design that best conveys your idea and execute it digitally using Adobe Illustrator.
Organize all materials into a neat, cohesive PDF with a clear layout.
Upload your PDF to D2L before the deadline. Bring a printed or digital copy to your one-on-one meeting for feedback.
Design tip: Design is a demanding process that requires time and dedication. While it's possible to complete all the stages of this project in a few hours, only expect great results if you invest enough time and effort into it. Remember, solid design takes time!
Checklist
PREPARATION
Please note that this project is all about typography—it's the star of the show! That means you should dedicate the majority of your time to perfecting it.
Please pay attention to typographic elements, such as typeface name, its pedigree, typesetting (including kerning, tracking, possible leading, overshoot aligning, and more), composition, harmony, and hierarchy. These are the essential elements that will be evaluated to determine the success of your project.
Make sure to demonstrate your research skills by crafting a design that perfectly captures the essence of the client, the target audience, and your personal style.
Remember, haphazard and rushed designs will not earn you a satisfactory grade. You must create a functional and engaging outcome that truly resonates with the audience and convinces them to get involved. So, let your passion for typography shine and create a masterpiece that will leave everyone in awe!
To complete this project, you will need to create two files: a .ai file containing your design, which should be prepared for cutting with a vinyl cutter, and a PDF file showcasing your project's evolution from the initial idea to actual photos of the finished product in action (not mockups). Please consider including the steps of the proposal/worksheet.
HTV PRINT
Once you have completed designing your typography in Adobe Illustrator, you must use the Print Lab (#511 Daley) vinyl cutter to cut the design onto HTV vinyl.
Please ensure that the dimensions of your files do not exceed 9” in one direction, as this is the width limitation of the HTV vinyl roll.
Check the Outline Mode in Adobe Illustrator (cmd/ctrl+Y) to ensure there are no stray paths and points in your file.
Before cutting your design, be sure to mirror it horizontally.
Remember that there are limitations to the amount of detail that can be cut on vinyl, such as very thin lines and tiny elements.
It is important to preheat your tote bag for less than 5 seconds before applying the vinyl to remove any moisture and residues. Remember this step before beginning the application process.
Before starting your project, please make sure that the material of your tote bag is compatible with both the heat press and the HTV vinyl. It is essential to consult with iRL (Daley #310) supervisors about your materials to ensure that they are suitable for your project. Please note that you will be responsible for any damage to the machines caused by using incompatible materials.
Remember to put a protective layer on top of your design before pressing it onto the tote bag. Ask IRL supervisors about protective layers.
Apply design at 305°F/150°C. Use pressure for 15 seconds max.
If you need help with applying multi-layer vinyl, please let me know. The instructions for applying multi-layer vinyl are different.
The overall dimensions of the design should not be smaller than 6" x 9".
The quality of the HTV press, including cleanliness, alignment, and craftsmanship, is an important factor in your grade for this project. Please pay close attention to these details for the best possible outcome.
It is crucial to pay attention to the guidelines provided by both the Print Lab and iRL supervisors and to follow all lab rules while working on this project. Please clean up after yourself and maintain a safe and organized workspace. Any violation of lab rules may result in a deduction of points.
Please note that no excuses regarding printing delays, mistakes, or other issues will be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure that your project is properly completed and delivered by the deadline. To avoid any potential delays, please be sure to give the Print Lab sufficient time for cutting.
DIGITAL SUBMISSION
Before submitting your project, please ensure that it meets all the requirements in the final project checklist.
To complete this project, you will need to submit two files:
An “.ai” format file that includes your design.
A “PDF” file includes your research brief, design strategy, sources of inspiration, and at least three images of your physical product. The images should consist of one close-up detail shot, one full product shot, and one image that showcases the product being used/in action (not mockups). Please consider including the steps of the proposal/worksheet. You will present this file with your physical product in the class.
Please avoid using pre-existing templates from the internet or apps. Design your own unique template.
Clean layout and well-organized content matter.
Save your file in 'lastname_firstname-P1' format. For example, my file would look like Amini_Sajad-P1.ai/pdf.
Submit your project files under the project assignment module on the D2L website AND your self-assessment in the comment section.
DOUBLE AND TRIPLE CHECK to ensure your files and Self-assessment are up on D2L.
Self-Assessment
You will write this on D2L at the same time you submit your file. Your entry should include the following:
Identify what elements of your design gave you the most problems.
Identify what elements of your design you feel are most successful.
In your opinion, how do you evaluate your performance in this project?
Please focus on discussing your design work and the creative process rather than any struggles or successes related to technology or time management.
Rubric
Item | Weight |
|---|---|
Ideation (Proposal) | 15% |
Realization (materialization of the idea) | 15% |
Typography | 15% |
Presentation | 15% |
HTV Process | 10% |
Digital Execution (.ai) | 10% |
Self-assessment | 10% |
Critic active participation | 10% |
Total | 100% Points |
Student Presentations
LOVEYA CHINGALE
NICK DARIVAS
Daniela Pereira
Holland Hilgendorf
Student Final Product
Brooklyn Brouillette
Katherine Dynak
Emory Wise
Gianna Dehmlow
Bruno Krente
Yanira Soto
Ally Hudson
Annie Gidionsen
Hannah Thompson
Izzy Gibson
Izzy Lima
Loveya Chingale
Padilla Diocelina
