Project Overview
Project Name: UTM Scribes Slate - Volume 3
Duration: Spring 2018 (1 month)
Tools Used: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign
Introduction
I was tasked with creating a new cover for the third edition of the UTM Scribes Slate, an annual collection of short stories, poems, sketches, and pictures contributed by students at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
This was a spring release, and the redesign was my final project with the UTM Scribes Club. The previous two volumes had a dark theme featuring falling feathers or quills, and while they wanted to keep within the same theme, the goal for this edition was to take it in a new direction.
Objectives
• Refresh the Design: Create a new cover that stays true to the theme but introduces a fresh and lighter aesthetic.
• Incorporate Seasonal Elements: Reflect the spring release through appropriate imagery and colour choices.
• Maintain Consistency: Ensure the design aligns with the previous editions while standing out as its own unique cover.
• Attention to Detail: Manage print-specific requirements like margins and formatting, and ensure the content is well-organized for a polished final product.
Design Process
1. Concept Development
To begin, I analyzed the previous two covers, noting the elements that worked well and those that could be improved. The dark background and falling quills were signature elements, but for this spring edition, I wanted to introduce a lighter feel. I decided on a white background to signify a fresh start and the blooming of new ideas.
2. Design Execution
I kept the quills but gave them a slight style update to differentiate this edition from the others. To emphasize the spring theme, I added a tree with branches spreading out from the side of the cover.
The tree itself was mostly out of frame, leaving just enough visible to add interest without overwhelming the composition. Pink flowers in bloom were added to the branches to further enhance the seasonal feel. The entire design was vector-based, keeping it clean and consistent with the previous volumes.
3. Finalization & Print Preparation
Once the cover design was finalized, I moved on to formatting the interior content. This involved laying out the short stories, poems, and artwork in Adobe InDesign, ensuring everything was correctly aligned and formatted for print.
It was essential to pay close attention to details like margins and text placement to avoid any issues during printing. The result was a well-organized and visually cohesive booklet that was ready for mass printing.
Outcome
The final design was very well received by the group, who appreciated the fresh approach while still recognizing the familiar elements of the previous editions.
Although I would have liked to explore an even more distinct direction, the project was a great learning experience, particularly in print design. Hundreds of copies were printed and distributed to students, marking a successful conclusion to the project.
Reflection
Working on this project provided invaluable experience in both creative design and practical print preparation. It was a rewarding challenge to balance maintaining a consistent theme with introducing new elements that reflect the edition’s seasonal release. This project not only strengthened my skills in design but also deepened my understanding of the nuances involved in print work.