Print portfolio advice...

[Lau]

I'm due to hand in my graphic design degree portfolio in a couple of weeks, and the way everything has worked out means I've got a lot of books and pamphlets that are A4 sized at the most. I've got an A1 and an A2 poster, but they both fold down into A4 size the way they're packaged too.

Because of this, I'm not going to mount them (what's the point of mounting a book?!) and my briefs are in a A4 pamphlet, so I basically have a stack of books, magazines and papers to present. I currently have a bog-standard A3 black portfolio, but it isn't really the best way to present a stack of books, as the stack is much deeper and smaller, so I'm looking for other options. I was thinking maybe buying a box, or making a box, or maybe buying or making a kind of mini suitcase type thing. I'm thinking well made and still professional but a little bit different.

Have any of you knowledgeable lot seen any nice portfolios or boxes used to present this kind of work? Any good sources for ideas or buying them?

What are your thoughts on these kind of 'alternative' portfolios - pointless, or a nice touch? If someone brought one to interview would you think "pretentious nob" or "makes the extra effort"?!

Thanks for any input, it's much appreciated.


Edit: The best option so far I think is to make something like this, perhaps in a grey or brown rather than black, but I'd appreciate any nifty alternative suggestions. :)

47365 47366

[tobefirst]

I love Pina Zangaro's (http://www.pinazangaro.com/) binders and boxes.

I use the Machina Screwpost (http://www.pinazangaro.com/html/packaged_portfolios.html#machina_screwpost) Binder along with a Bora Attaché Case (http://www.pinazangaro.com/html/cases.html#boro_attache) for my larger work. These cases aren't exactly cheap, though, but they are definitely worth it, in my opinion.

Machina Screwpost Binder
http://www.pinazangaro.com/images/products/machina_screwpost.jpg

Bora Attaché Case
http://www.pinazangaro.com/images/products/boro_cases.jpg

[iGav]

Speaking from the viewpoint of an ex-design lecturer, the way in which my students submitted their work was intrinsically less important than the quality of the work itself. ;)

But... I would also say from the viewpoint of an ex-design lecturer nothing quite made me question peoples creativity more, than those that just submitted everything in a black Daler portfolio. ;)

I ordered a load of books the other week, and they came in a cardboard package called 'Pandaroll-Box' by Pussikeskus (http://www.pussikeskus.fi/systems_eng.html) (I found that name very amusing by the way) which is similar to what Amazon uses, but is more simple... and doesn't have plastic sleeves either. heh.

I'd try not and get too precious on this Lau... it won't (or at least shouldn't) have any affect on your final grade, though I understand the desire to present and submit your work in the best way possible... I just can't help think that you could make better use of the time that you do have left, by not spending a great deal of it designing and building something that won't really make any beneficial contribution to your grade.

[Lau]

Thanks for the suggestions, both of you. I'm not sure a metal case is really my style, tobefirst, but I really like the shape of that smaller one sitting on the top. I'll definitely look for something similar in a different finish.

Funnily enough, iGav, I was thinking along the lines of a brown cardboard box, Amazon style, as for as long as it stayed crisp it would look good. I've got a book of flatplans so I'll maybe look into that.

Speaking from the viewpoint of an ex-design lecturer, the way in which my students submitted their work was intrinsically less important than the quality of the work itself. ;)

But... I would also say from the viewpoint of an ex-design lecturer nothing quite made me question peoples creativity more, than those that just submitted everything in a black Daler portfolio. ;)

That's really useful to know. I defintely don't intend this to be more important than the work, but especially as I don't even like the bloody black portfolios (especially with plastic sleeves!), I really want to do something different at least for interview, if not for the hand in.

I'd try not and get too precious on this Lau... it won't (or at least shouldn't) have any affect on your final grade, though I understand the desire to present and submit your work in the best way possible... I just can't help think that you could make better use of the time that you do have left, by not spending a great deal of it designing and building something that won't really make any beneficial contribution to your grade.

Absolutely, I'm going to see how the time goes - I may end up doing it more for interviews, rather than the hand in date, if time gets short, as they're about 23347237492837 times more important. :D College is getting right on my tits at the moment - I just want to get it done and get out there!

[iGav]

I really want to do something different at least for interview

Yeah, stay away from black portfolios that's for sure ;) even now... I/we still get the odd poor unfortunate that lugs along their black A1 portfolio/s (yes plural, I kid you not) brimming with plastic sleeves... so that it barely zips up. :rolleyes: :p

I will say... keep it practical ;) when in an interview you want something that will allow you to present your work effectively, the work is the most important thing, not what it comes in. ;) It serves a different purpose and should be approached differently as to... say a self promotional mailer for example.

[decksnap]

The metal ones are pretty 'done'. ie, everybody had them like 6 or seven years ago. Also, I have heard horror stories of people actually scratching up big fancy boardroom desks with their super cool metal cases.

I know what you mean about the Pina Zangaros- way too expensive! We just ordered 50 of the Machinas at my office for a leave-behind we're designing. It adds up quick. Not only that, they're so expensive that when you tell them you want to bulk order and would like some samples to play with, they expect you to send the samples back!

I say keep it simple, but don't look cheap.

[munckee]

I have my print work displayed in an 11x17 Pina Zangaro Machina portfolio. At least in the advertising industry, they're new enough not to be considered "overdone".

Another thing to keep in mind though is that PZ makes similar screwpost and binder portfolios in a few other materials and finishes. They have one that's simply board wrapped in black book-binder's cloth. I think the version is called Bex and it's considerably cheaper than the machina portfolios.

[Lau]

Thanks for the further comments. The idea of scratching up some posh boardroom table brings me out in a cold sweat! :eek:

Munkee - I really like the hardboard ones like this:

http://www.pinazangaro.com/images/products/34605_34606.jpg

Some sort of deeper hardboard box thing would be good - would be sturdy but not mega heavy. <strokes chin>

[munckee]

The idea of scratching up some posh boardroom table brings me out in a cold sweat! :eek:



I've never had that problem personally. I would think, based on the way the PZ portfolios are built, that it would be the hinge area that would scratch. This would be an issue on any of their portfolios because they all use a metal hinge for the spine. Just be careful with it or hand it directly to the person reviewing and let them set it down.

When you buy the portfolios as a set, they come with a black nylon zipper pouch. If you're really worried, you could lay that flat on the table and then set your portfolio on top of it to protect the tabletop.

[JasonElise1983]

I'm actually using a white acrylic Pina Zangaroo. I love it, especially the screwpost look of it. What i'm really wanting to save up for is...

www.lost-luggage.com

i love the looking glass series and arsenal series together. So expensive though.

[usclaneyj]

i have a large box rather similar to what you've added in your edit. it seems to do the trick for me. plus, it allows for some really nifty recess mounting of your work.

but like others have said, the most important part is the work itself. the main thing with the portfolio is to prove that you really DO care about craft. no sloppy cuts, off-center mounts, junky clumsy pages, or whatever.

[munckee]

So expensive though.

:eek: That's obscene!

Take a look at the PZ frost series. They look a lot like the looking glass ones with a slightly lower price tag.

[iGav]

no sloppy cuts, off-center mounts, junky clumsy pages, or whatever.

It's a difficult balance, personally I dislike work that is mounted... especially when interviewing people, it's an unnatural environment for most printed design pieces, I like to get my grubby mitts on the work, actually look, touch and feel to gain an idea of how the design works in its natural enviroment. Frequently, work that looks great all mounted up, doesn't stand up when it's trying to serve its purpose.

[iGav]

so then... 1 week to go, any decisions yet? :)

[Lau]

Well...if I have time, I'm going to make a box like the ones in the first post but covered in nice fake wood vinyl and lined with something groovy. :cool: The trick's finding something exciting, but not too distracting from the work. I rather fancy a bright red lining - would look good with the wood. I made a prototype this afternoon and I think it'll work.

Reckon that sounds a bit insane? Or kind of fun?

Oh, and I totally agree about the mounting - good to hear someone in the industry saying it too.

Thanks for all you help so far, everyone. :)

[iGav]

I rather fancy a bright red lining - would look good with the wood.
and
Reckon that sounds a bit insane? Or kind of fun?)

Or kind of like a coffin? ;) heheh

[Lau]

That honestly made me laugh out loud.

<Comes into interview and sweeps cape around, scattering footmen with her cane> "Behold! My portfolio!" <creeeeaaaak> :p

I'm thinking slightly kitsch rather than spooky - but I'll see what it looks like. I will keep my eye out for any coffin like traits...

Here's my tiny prototype. That gum tape that you have to lick is incredibly strong, so I think it should hold it neatly under the vinyl.

[iGav]

I'm thinking slightly kitsch rather than spooky

Stay away from the velvet though 'eh. ;)

Here's my tiny prototype. That gum tape that you have to lick is incredibly strong, so I think it should hold it neatly under the vinyl.

What kind of thickness vinyl is that?

Wilkinson's used to do wood-veneer-on-a-roll (sticky back plastic to me & you) I'm just wondering... as it'd be dandy if you could get the folds to be really crisp, clean and sharp.

[Lau]

What kind of thickness vinyl is that?

Wilkinson's used to do wood-veneer-on-a-roll (sticky back plastic to me & you) I'm just wondering... as it'd be dandy if you could get the folds to be really crisp, clean and sharp.

It's from a little hardware shop, but it just seems to be bog-standard vinyl on a roll stuff. The folds do need to be crisper - I think for this to look good it's going to have to be really crisp and well made, or it's going to look god-awful.

[iGav]

It's from a little hardware shop, but it just seems to be bog-standard vinyl on a roll stuff. The folds do need to be crisper - I think for this to look good it's going to have to be really crisp and well made, or it's going to look god-awful.

Have you tried scoring the underside of the vinyl? I can't remember what the technique is called, but you make 2 cuts into the material, both at about 45 degrees essentially making a V shape, that'll crisp the edges up nicely on thicker material.

Also if you have access to a B&D heat gun, that would make the vinyl more pliable, though be careful not to melt it. ;)

[Lau]

Hmm, cheers iGav. I just had another go, and really pulled it tight and it looks much better. It is sticky back plastic, sorry if I didn't make that clear.

I found a good link (http://www.indiana.edu/%7Elibpres/manual/treatments/clam/index.html) on how to make a box, although it's using the canvas stuff you glue with PVA.

I think it'll be ok, as it'll be on such a bigger box. I like your idea of loosening it up with heat. I'll test it out on the prototypes first, in case it bursts into flames. :p

[Mike Teezie]

I like your work, Lau.

You should be fine no matter what you present the material in.

Gav - that's an interesting point about not mounting print work for presentation, I've never thought about it like that. Which is ridiculous, because the first thing I do when I see a nicely designed anything is touch it.

I like print as opposed to web because it's tangible, so I guess it only makes sense that people be able to feel it and hold it.

I'm up for senior review in a few weeks - unfortunately all my profs are mount nazis.

[Lau]

Thanks, Mike. :)

It's a tough one about the mounting. Some of my tutors do recommend mounting our work, but enough of the others don't to make it a personal choice. Also, not only is it the tutors I have more respect for that say no to mounting, but it seems to be the ones that are more in touch with the industry. You could always mount it for the review, but not for the portfolio you'll take out. There's no point in losing marks over something like that, but at least you can take an unmounted one out into the real world.

[iGav]

I think it'll be ok, as it'll be on such a bigger box. I like your idea of loosening it up with heat. I'll test it out on the prototypes first, in case it bursts into flames. :p

A good hair dryer would probably do the trick as well. ;) probably safer too. heh.

Crisp lines is what's going to make it though girl. ;)

Have you considered something more intricate? maybe like the current iPod packaging?

Which is ridiculous, because the first thing I do when I see a nicely designed anything is touch it.

Exactly... ;) It's human nature to want to touch and feel things. ;)

I like print as opposed to web because it's tangible, so I guess it only makes sense that people be able to feel it and hold it.

I love the tactility that comes with printed work... which is something that I miss deeply working mainly on interaction design. Though... that's not to say that you cannot add physical qualities to digital work. ;)

I'm up for senior review in a few weeks - unfortunately all my profs are mount nazis.

and

Some of my tutors do recommend mounting our work, but enough of the others don't to make it a personal choice. Also, not only is it the tutors I have more respect for that say no to mounting, but it seems to be the ones that are more in touch with the industry.

You shouldn't be downgraded if you decide not to mount your work, and it's not something that you should accept if that occurs. Present the work in a way that is most sympathetic to the format, and if needs be, justify your reasons for doing so. I know of no lecturer that would downgrade you if you opted not to mount your work, but presented it in a way that you felt best suited it's qualities, regardless of whether mounting is their preferred way for presenting work.

[Lau]

Have you considered something more intricate? maybe like the current iPod packaging?

Well, that was my first thought, 'cause I loves the paper craft, man. :D But then I kept thinking that the best and quickest way to get to the work is a normal box, and I wondered if it a fancy one would just over-complicate the whole thing, and make the whole thing a bit pretentious.

I do like the idea of a square though. Squares are highly pleasing. :)

[Lau]

Gav mate - you're a star! I was thinking of carrying the box in a kind of grey felt bag with handles, and after looking at a Nano box again- I've had a rethink - the inside can be a wood effect box a bit like the nano box with a kind of thick lid, and thick sides and then the slip case can be the grey felt bag. :cool: See scrappy drawings attached. I've got some sort of triple thickness bookbinding board for the thick bits.

Thanks for your help, I totally owe you a pint. :)

[iGav]

with a kind of thick lid, and thick sides

Exactly along the lines that I was thinking. it would give the box more substance, make it feel more substantial, whilst still being simple.

I like the idea of the fabric, though I'm not sure about felt...hmmm. I've got a particular type of fabric in my head, but I can't for the life of me think of it's name... very tactile though.

I also think that a simple fabric outer sleeve like the iPod box (or G-Shock watch boxes) is a more suitable solution than a bag. ;)

[Lau]

I like the idea of the fabric, though I'm not sure about felt...hmmm. I've got a particular type of fabric in my head, but I can't for the life of me think of it's name... very tactile though.

Velvet? :p

I also think that a simple fabric outer sleeve like the iPod box (or G-Shock watch boxes) is a more suitable solution than a bag. ;)

The only reason I thought a simple bag would be good would be that it would then have handles. I was thinking of a really tight-fitting sleeve that then rose up in a kind of bubble and had two circles cut out of it to make handles, all very simple. It probably would be small enough to carry under even my stumpy arms though, and I definitely see your point about the sleeve.

The only good thing about felt (the stuff I got a while ago was kind of mottled grey tweedy stuff) is that it doesn't fray so there wouldn't be any messy seams around the raw edge, it would just fit perfectly.

[iGav]

Velvet? :p

Absolutely... get yourself some shank buttons too, perfect for that boudoir button back look. heh. :D

The only reason I thought a simple bag would be good would be that it would then have handles. I was thinking of a really tight-fitting sleeve that then rose up in a kind of bubble and had two circles cut out of it to make handles, all very simple. It probably would be small enough to carry under even my stumpy arms though, and I definitely see your point about the sleeve.

The only... not issue, concern ;) I would have about the bag is that of the connotations it may have, think of a gift bag for example. A bag is something that is rarely associated, or considered relevant or part of what's inside it, a disposable item... of little relevance or worth.

The only good thing about felt (the stuff I got a while ago was kind of mottled grey tweedy stuff) is that it doesn't fray so there wouldn't be any messy seams around the raw edge, it would just fit perfectly.

It does depend on the felt I suppose, for some reason when I think of felt, I always think of the cheap stuff that you cut up with those coloured plastic handled scissors, and glue sequins onto in primary school. :p

Though... that said... do you have, or have access to an overlocker? seams wouldn't be a problem then.

Anyway... hark at us... can't you just tell we both actually wanted to be product designers really. heheh.

[Lau]

The only... not issue, concern ;) I would have about the bag is that of the connotations it may have, think of a gift bag for example. A bag is something that is rarely associated, or considered relevant or part of what's inside it, a disposable item... of little relevance or worth.

Good point. I'll have a go and see what looks better, but I'll definitely bear it in mind. Maybe when I've finished the work and see how big this needs to be will help me decide - if it's A4 sized, the handles may well be overkill anyway.

It does depend on the felt I suppose, for some reason when I think of felt, I always think of the cheap stuff that you cut up with those coloured plastic handled scissors, and glue sequins onto in primary school. :p

Though... that said... do you have, or have access to an overlocker? seams wouldn't be a problem then.

I can assure you it's not that kind of felt! I think I could use an overlocker at college, but I may well be beaten up by the fashion and textile students for usuing it in the last week of college! I'll make enquiries tomorrow.

Anyway... hark at us... can't you just tell we both actually wanted to be product designers really. heheh.

I did very nearly do product design as well. :D But then we've got it good - graphic design, with the added fun of doing product designy things on occasion. ;)

[iGav]

Good point. I'll have a go and see what looks better, but I'll definitely bear it in mind. Maybe when I've finished the work and see how big this needs to be will help me decide - if it's A4 sized, the handles may well be overkill anyway.

I'd go with doing a comparison... the bag might just come across as a trifle twee, I'm just trying to put myself in the position of marking your work ;) and I'm not sure if I'd automatically associate a bag, with the work inside it, more likely just thinking it's something that the work was put in to keep it together for submission.

Do mock up's of both, and post pictures. :) That's your task today Lau... chop, chop. ;)

I did very nearly do product design as well. :D But then we've got it good - graphic design, with the added fun of doing product designy things on occasion. ;)

I'm working on some product design stuff at the moment. :D

It's not that I regret what I do now, because I don't... I love it. But were I given the opportunity to start over, I've have chosen Product Design.

That said, there's nothing stopping me moving in that direction... of which I currently am. :)

Also I just can't imagine being in interaction and motion design in my 50's. heh.

[Moshiiii]

Lau, I was browsing through you're portfolio. Neat stuff! Is the Bruce Mau poster you're work (or just an example)? I saw this poster published in a Design book I just finished reading.

[beatle888]

Speaking from the viewpoint of an ex-design lecturer, the way in which my students submitted their work was intrinsically less important than the quality of the work itself. ;)


not the case when going to an interview at an agency. its all about image. and it should be. thats what advertisings about.

[Lau]

Do mock up's of both, and post pictures. :) That's your task today Lau... chop, chop. ;)

Yessir! Well, I'll do it later in the week when I've printed and bound the stuff that's going in it. :D

Also I just can't imagine being in interaction and motion design in my 50's. heh.

Don't worry, you'll be seen as really old skool by then, cause you don't do holographic interactive virtual reality. :p

Lau, I was browsing through you're portfolio. Neat stuff! Is the Bruce Mau poster you're work (or just an example)? I saw this poster published in a Design book I just finished reading.

The quote isn't mine, as it's from Bruce Mau's Incomplete Manifesto, but I bloody well hope the poster isn't in a design book, cause it's my design, taken from my photos! Do you have a copy you could scan in? I'm intrigued now, and a little worried!

[iGav]

not the case when going to an interview at an agency.

But you have to remember that the requirements for submitting work to be graded, and presenting your book at an agency are vastly different.

its all about image. and it should be. thats what advertisings about.

No, no and no.

[iGav]

The quote isn't mine, as it's from Bruce Mau's Incomplete Manifesto, but I bloody well hope the poster isn't in a design book, cause it's my design, taken from my photos! Do you have a copy you could scan in? I'm intrigued now, and a little worried!

I bet it's not the same... though having just looked at your poster it really reminds me of something, though I think it's more down to the perspective copy as opposed to anything else.

I just can't remember what. :confused:

Though it'd be something if it was your poster though... heheh. :p

[Lau]

I bet it's not the same... though having just looked at your poster it really reminds me of something, though I think it's more down to the perspective copy as opposed to anything else.

I just can't remember what. :confused:

Though it'd be something if it was your poster though... heheh. :p

Heh - I know. I very much doubt someone's even seen my poster, certainly not got it into a design book! But it would be good to see the similarity, just in case when I hand it in it looks as if I've copied something.

[usclaneyj]

It's a difficult balance, personally I dislike work that is mounted... especially when interviewing people, it's an unnatural environment for most printed design pieces, I like to get my grubby mitts on the work, actually look, touch and feel to gain an idea of how the design works in its natural enviroment. Frequently, work that looks great all mounted up, doesn't stand up when it's trying to serve its purpose.


that's a great point, and i completely understand your p.o.v.

i just feel that it's very important to convey that you are detail-oriented to the umpteenth degree when it comes time to show your work. so, if you're the type that mounts, then make sure it looks good. ;)

[iGav]

Heh - I know. I very much doubt someone's even seen my poster, certainly not got it into a design book! But it would be good to see the similarity, just in case when I hand it in it looks as if I've copied something.

I'm pretty certain I know the poster he's referring too... I just can't remember for who or what it's about. Or indeed where I've seen it, at first I was thinking that dixonbaxi might have done it (they've changed the work on their site so I can't be sure) but now I'm thinking I either saw it in Creative Review or Graphics International/Grafik magazine... I'll have a tommy gander and I'll report back. ;)

[Moshiiii]

Tomarow when I get home I'll check the book I'm speaking of. Also give you a scan of the picture.

[Lau]

Thanks Gav and Moshiiii. This has turned into the great Lau detective thread! :D

[iGav]

I've just spent the whole morning go through about 50 Creative Reviews, and about 30 Graphics Internationals and Grafik magazines. Nothing.

Now that's flummoxed me.

[Lau]

I've just spent the whole morning go through about 50 Creative Reviews, and about 30 Graphics Internationals and Grafik magazines. Nothing.

Now that's flummoxed me.

Thanks anyway, though, Gav. :o I really appreciate the effort.

[Moshiiii]

Strange.. I looked through the book with no luck of locating you're poster. I guess I was mistaken. Just that the poster seemed so familiar to me (everything else in you're portfolio was new to me) and I've had my head stuck inside this book for the past two week. Oh well, great portfolio and I also love the book "Ten things you don't want to know about me". Do you have any additional photos of pages inside the book?

[Lau]

Well, that was lucky that I used the power of my mind to blank that page on your magazines, Gav, and your book, Moshiiii... ;)

Isn't that strange? I wonder if you were both thinking of the same poster, as well.

Moshiiii, I've sent you a PM. (Although any red book requests will have to be honoured after the degree! - I've been meaning to send one to another member for a while as well).

[iGav]

Right then Lau... after spending the day searching through all of my stuff, I moochy'd on to the Wayback Machine as I was more inclined to believe it was either Dixonbaxi or A Practice For Everday Life, the latter turned up nothing similar, the former seems to ring a bell in 2 pieces of work for the London College of Communication, but I think from seeing yours... I was juxtaposing the 3D plane copy of one, and the scratchy qualities of the other in my head into something reminiscent of your poster. I can't find a bigger image though.

How's the box/bag/thingy coming along anyhow?

And..

Are you exhibiting at New Designers?

[Lau]

Right then Lau... after spending the day searching through all of my stuff, I moochy'd on to the Wayback Machine as I was more inclined to believe it was either Dixonbaxi or A Practice For Everday Life, the latter turned up nothing similar, the former seems to ring a bell in 2 pieces of work for the London College of Communication, but I think from seeing yours... I was juxtaposing the 3D plane copy of one, and the scratchy qualities of the other in my head into something reminiscent of your poster. I can't find a bigger image though.

Ooh, ooh, I've seen them, they're great posters. Thanks for digging them out.

How's the box/bag/thingy coming along anyhow?

It's on hold for now - final crit ever tomorrow, so am working on a magazine to get some feedback on that, and I'm going to try and get everything printed before the weekend, then I'll give it a bash.

And..

Are you exhibiting at New Designers?

No...our new head didn't think it was worth it, along with a London show, and so refused to give us any cash for it. I'm not sure how worth it it is or not, but seemed a bit of a bummer at the time. Me and some friends were going to have a flash mob exhibition around London instead. It may still happen. :D

[iGav]

It's on hold for now

Slacker... ;)

No...our new head didn't think it was worth it, along with a London show, and so refused to give us any cash for it. I'm not sure how worth it it is or not, but seemed a bit of a bummer at the time.

That's a shame, I would've arranged to bump into you at somepoint (and claim my free pint) ;)

Anyway... I just go to to steal ideas... that and charm the ladies with offers of work... in return for sexual favours of course. heheheheh

[Lau]

That's a shame, I would've arranged to bump into you at somepoint (and claim my free pint) ;)

Anyway... I just go to to steal ideas... that and charm the ladies with offers of work... in return for sexual favours of course. heheheheh

I'm sure we can arrange bumpage and pintage without the help of an exhibition. :D

Anyway, sounds like you'll have your hands full at the show, yer rogue. :P

[iGav]

I'm sure we can arrange bumpage and pintage without the help of an exhibition. :D P[/COLOR]

Indeedy. :D

[Lau]

Well, one slightly butchered and spraymounty finger later, and I have a box! I think I'll make the lid and cover it tomorrow, when the tape's dry and my finger hurts slightly less...

48916
48917

[Moshiiii]

Looks unique! Good job.

[Lau]

Looks unique! Good job.

Thanks Moshii! It's 33cm square (on the outside) and is nice and chunky. :) Hopefully it'll look good covered.

Hope all your graphic work is going well. :)

[Moshiiii]

Hope all your graphic work is going well. :)

Thanks :D I got a new camera this weekend (Cannon PowerShot A540) and now I'm picture crazy!

[iGav]

Hopefully it'll look good covered.

Lau, are your lecturers striking???

How's the box coming along???

Bag or sleeve???

[Lau]

Lau, are your lecturers striking???

Yep, no marks for us. :(

How's the box coming along??? Bag or sleeve???

It's done! I handed it all in yesterday, and remembered at quarter to six that I had to take photos to show you...

That was a mad, mad 24 hours... :p

49272 49273

49274 49275

I went for a bag in the end - you can sort of see it in the first picture. The luggage tag label is part of the show, not the box.

It turned out ok - I'd like to do a better one for interview, this one was a bit wonky in places.

Now, back to lying on the sofa with a blinding headache. I may have had a couple of drinks last night...:o :p

[iGav]

Yep, no marks for us. :(

It's really bad what's happening... even more so considering students have to pay for tuition now. Though that said... it shouldn't really affect your prospects of getting a job, on your CV just list the grade you're expecting as provisional (I presume you haven't done so badly as too fail the f**king course ;) :p) even then... a degree means pretty much bugger all, something you'll be glad to hear after several years and several thousand pounds. ;) :p

Though that said I'd have had a field day had this happened to me... I'd have torn strips off the lecturer that I'd locked horns with for 3 years, that would've given me great pleasure, instead... I had to do it the old fashioned way... with beer and a deaf ear, on the night of the private view of our degree show, we got into a REALLY intense discussion, I tried to be polite when I was disagreeing with his point of view, which only added to his frustration, in the end he became so wound up that he had to be restrained by other lecturers from trying to hit me. heheh.

It's done! I handed it all in yesterday, and remembered at quarter to six that I had to take photos to show you...

I do like that wood veneer look ;)

I went for a bag in the end - you can sort of see it in the first picture.

It'll cost you marks, you just wait and see... when you gets your marks and feedback back, it'll say... "nicely presented, but maybe a... a sleeve would've been better". :p

Well done though... it all goes downhill after graduating. ;)

[Lau]

It's really bad what's happening... even more so considering students have to pay for tuition now. Though that said... it shouldn't really affect your prospects of getting a job, on your CV just list the grade you're expecting as provisional (I presume you haven't done so badly as too fail the f**king course ;) :p)

I hope not! Heh. Apparently they may give us an ordinary degree for graduation based on our earlier marks, and then give us an honours one later. As everyone's in the same boat I'm sure employers understand, and the porfolio's the important bit. I feel more sorry for the people doing academic degrees who don't have the portfolio bit, or who need a 2:1 to get their job. Weird to think they're marking us as we speak but it could be a year til we find out what that mark is!

That's classic about your lecturer! There's nothing that gets people's backs up more than being polite, calm and reasonable when argiung with someone, it pisses 'em right off. I love it. :D

It'll cost you marks, you just wait and see... when you gets your marks and feedback back, it'll say... "nicely presented, but maybe a... a sleeve would've been better". :p

Well done though... it all goes downhill after graduating. ;)

I just reread my post – I dunno why I wrote bag. I meant sleeve. It is a sleeve! The tweedy stuff doesn't fray so I just cut it flush to the edge. It looked good, you were right about the sleeve! ;)

[iGav]

I'm sure employers understand, and the porfolio's the important bit.

You should be okay, the only time I've been asked if and what type of degree I have was when I went for the lecturer position, for obvious reasons. I've never been asked by a design company, though that's not to say everyone or every company will be the same.

Personally I think some students put far too much emphasis on the importance of getting a good degree mark, at the expense of actually pushing themselves and their work, doing what their lecturers suggest to appease them and to guarantee a good grade, a lot of people in my year suffered from that particular syndrome.

That's classic about your lecturer! There's nothing that gets people's backs up more than being polite, calm and reasonable when argiung with someone, it pisses 'em right off. I love it. :D

The thing is, he was a massively intelligent person, amazingly knowledgable especially regarding typography, but we really just clashed from the beginning, in a way it's such a shame I'd probably appreciate him, his approach and his experience much more now, as myself as a person and my work have grown over the yearsJust out of interest... (and to cover my arse on this) have you ever at all had a french lecturer?

It looked good, you were right about the sleeve! ;)

Surely this means 2 pints then. :D god I hope they don't write back on your report... "nicely presented, but maybe a... a bag would've been better".heheh

[Moshiiii]

Great job! You look like you have alot of interesting stuff to put in there. The whole thing looks very profesional.

I'd suggest you get the book "How to be a graphic designer without losing your soul" by Adrian Shaughnessy, Its targeted for the designer who is fresh out of design school. It has tons of great information.

[Lau]

Personally I think some students put far too much emphasis on the importance of getting a good degree mark, at the expense of actually pushing themselves and their work, doing what their lecturers suggest to appease them and to guarantee a good grade, a lot of people in my year suffered from that particular syndrome.


Yeah, there was a lot of it here too. I've tried to steer clear of that way of thinking, but that's partly because I think my dissertation's going to scupper any chances of an amazing mark anyway, so I may as well just do work I think's interesting. :p

The thing is, he was a massively intelligent person, amazingly knowledgable especially regarding typography, but we really just clashed from the beginning, in a way it's such a shame I'd probably appreciate him, his approach and his experience much more now, as myself as a person and my work have grown over the yearsJust out of interest... (and to cover my arse on this) have you ever at all had a french lecturer?

Always the way. There were definitely similar clashes I had in the past. I think being a bit older means you realise you can still learn from these guys, even if they are idiots. I'm kind of glad I did this course a bit later on, because I did clash massively with some tutors on the fine art course I abandoned.

I don't think so - there was a french lecturer, a right arrogant little twunt, on my foundation, but he wasn't really into typography. And if it was him, you have my full approval. :P

Surely this means 2 pints then. :D god I hope they don't write back on your report... "nicely presented, but maybe a... a bag would've been better".heheh

It's a deal. :D Thanks so much for all your advice. Very much appreciated. If they do, you owe me two. ;p

Great job! You look like you have alot of interesting stuff to put in there. The whole thing looks very profesional.

I'd suggest you get the book "How to be a graphic designer without losing your soul" by Adrian Shaughnessy, Its targeted for the designer who is fresh out of design school. It has tons of great information.

Thanks Moshiiii - much appreciated. I actually already have that book - it's excellent, isn't it? I think it might be time for a re-read though. Maybe next week though, I'm avoiding graphics at the moment. The new issue of Grafik magazine arrived yesterday and I haven't even opened it yet. :eek: :p

[Moshiiii]

Thanks Moshiiii - much appreciated. I actually already have that book - it's excellent, isn't it? I think it might be time for a re-read though. Maybe next week though, I'm avoiding graphics at the moment. The new issue of Grafik magazine arrived yesterday and I haven't even opened it yet. :eek: :p

I figured you had it already :D That book was a great read, I'm a "noob" at the whole design thing so most of the tips I wont be able to use until later on. No doupt I'm going to re-visit the book.

[Lau]

I figured you had it already :D That book was a great read, I'm a "noob" at the whole design thing so most of the tips I wont be able to use until later on. No doupt I'm going to re-visit the book.

It's still good that you're reading it now though - it just means you'll be well read up on it as time goes on. :) You might not have time to re-read it by then! :D

[iGav]

With all this talk of A Level and G.C.S.E. results in the media at the moment... it reminded me to ask you Lau about when you're due to hear about your results???

[Lau]

With all this talk of A Level and G.C.S.E. results in the media at the moment... it reminded me to ask you Lau about when you're due to hear about your results???

Heard ages ago... done the silly hat graduation and everything. :D Got a 2:1, so I'm pleased. :) Could I be bitter that I got 69.1% and 69.5% is a first...? Maybe a little. :p

[iGav]

Heard ages ago...

Well thanks for sharing it... *sniff sniff* :(

Though blimey... they don't f**k around with the posh bit down in Bath do they :eek: we didn't have our graduation until the November if I remember rightly.

Could I be bitter that I got 69.1% and 69.5% is a first...? Maybe a little. :p

Should've slept with your lecturer... ;) As a former lecturer, it makes all the difference I can assure you. heh, heh, heh.

[Lau]

Well thanks for sharing it... *sniff sniff* :(

Though blimey... they don't f**k around with the posh bit down in Bath do they :eek: we didn't have our graduation until the November if I remember rightly.

Sorry, been meaning to email you back for ages. I'll mail you a dodgy graduation pic later on to make up for it. :p

Yeah, it was a genius move to have a superheated marquee in the middle of July full of students in nylon gowns and nylon hats...:( Me and the guy next to me spent the ceremony comparing how far the sweat stain had got round out hats...:o

Should've slept with your lecturer... ;) As a former lecturer, it makes all the difference I can assure you. heh, heh, heh.

Sadly, the fit ones at my college seemed the ethical type, and vice versa :( :D Still, how much is an extra 0.4% worth? Surely not a actual shag... I should have bargained it down lower, as it were. :p

[iGav]

Sadly, the fit ones at my college seemed the ethical type,

The ethical type 'eh, luckily the iGav's not the kind to disappoint, I'm always willing to step up and fill any void so to speak. :D