Speckyboy Author

Addison Duvall (72 Articles)

Addison Duvall is the author of Food Identities, a blog that explores the crossroads of food, design, art, and culture. She’s written some things, designed other things, and eaten a whole lot of food.
What Should New & Inexperienced Designers Be Learning?

What Should New & Inexperienced Designers Be Learning?

Today I’m speaking to those just getting started in design. Maybe you just graduated from design school, or you’ve read through all the fundamental lessons offered here and on other…

The Idea Generation Process of Scribbling on a Napkin

The Idea Generation Process of Scribbling on a Napkin

We explore the idea generation process familiar to many designers: the scribbled idea on a restaurant napkin process. It’s high-level stuff!

Avoiding Design by Committee

Avoiding Design by Committee

Most people have an idea of the perfect solution to their design problem. The downside is that so does everyone else with the same problem.

The Role Design Plays in Your Client’s Sales Funnel

The Role Design Plays in Your Client’s Sales Funnel

We talk about what you’re really supposed to be doing as a designer, and about the role your designs play in your client’s sales funnel.

Separating Your Personal & Commercial Design Work

Separating Your Personal & Commercial Design Work

Is there a difference between so-called “commercial” work and work that’s done purely for the joy of creating? Should they be separated?

Finding & Using Your Own Design Voice

Finding & Using Your Own Design Voice

Your design voice – or design style, if you will – is how you choose to relay information to your audience. That sounds simple, but for the uninitiated, it can…

Do We Really Need to Follow Design Trends?

Do We Really Need to Follow Design Trends?

Designers love to complain about superficial design trends that they don’t feel have any staying power or contribute anything meaningful. Are they right?

The Importance of Storytelling in Design

The Importance of Storytelling in Design

Several years ago, I worked as an in-house copywriter and designer for a prominent marketing firm. When I first applied for the job I didn’t have any of the credentials…

Networking For Designers 101

Networking For Designers 101

We share some much easier and more effective methods for making networking connections as freelance creative designers.

How a Culinary Technique Could Make You a Better Freelancer

How a Culinary Technique Could Make You a Better Freelancer

Incorporating the mise en place idea into your creative process allows you to prepare yourself to power through your work with less stress and fewer headaches.

How to Calm Down a Panicky Design Client

How to Calm Down a Panicky Design Client

We discuss panicky clients and cover methods that will not only de-escalate their panic but also bring them around to your point of view.

Design Ideas is All About Presentation

Design Ideas is All About Presentation