Why We Sketch

We start with pen and paper. Always.


Why? Because this is the prototyping phase, you can immediately see if something is going to work or not, and it stops you getting bogged down in the small inconsequential details.


Here’s why this traditional approach remains as the starting block of our creative process.


Immediate Feedback and Prototyping


Using pen and paper allows you to quickly prototype ideas. It’s all about the broad strokes and blocking out of elements. This phase helps you see immediately if something will work or not, without getting bogged down in the small, inconsequential details.
 

The simplicity of sketching enables you to focus on the overall concept and layout, ensuring that the foundation is solid before you add the finer details digitally.

Stops You Running In The Wrong Direction

Sketching makes it easier to share ideas and collaborate with clients, colleagues, and peers. A quick sketch can communicate a concept more effectively than a detailed digital draft at this early stage.

It invites feedback and discussion, a great communicative tool to make sure everyone involved is aligned at this early stage and alleviating nasty surprises.

Close up of sketch for Fisher German out of home campaign

No Drawing Skills? No Problem!


You don’t need to be an artist to sketch out ideas. If you can put pen to paper, you can participate in this creative phase. The goal is not to create a masterpiece but to convey possibilities. Use stick figures, boxes, and simple annotations to illustrate your thoughts. The core purpose is to share and refine ideas, not to produce finished artwork.


Creativity Unleashed


Starting with pen and paper frees you from the constraints of digital tools. It encourages spontaneity and allows creativity to flow more naturally. This analogue approach helps you break free from the structured nature of digital design software, enabling more organic and innovative thinking.

Embracing the Mess


The sketching stage can be messy, and that’s a good thing. Imagine a desk littered with crumpled pieces of paper, each covered in scribbles and rough sketches. 

Some ideas might be sh... awful, but this messy process helps you quickly sift through concepts to find that golden idea. It’s an essential part of the creative journey, allowing you to explore a wide range of possibilities before committing to a direction.

PLA video storyboard sketched with pencil

Conclusion


By sketching with pen and paper, you can prototype quickly, collaborate more effectively, and unleash your creativity.


This traditional method remains a fundamental of our creative process, ensuring that every project starts with a solid, well thought out foundation.


Discover how we can help you navigate your creative journey from concept to completion.

Enquire today to see how we can help your brand!

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