OUGD504 / My Design Process / Experimenting with folding

I've tried with this style of folding, I like how simple it is however I feel like I'm putting these diagonal cuts in it just to make it a bit different, there is no actual purpose behind it which makes me think maybe I shouldn't go with this. 

This made me think- what kind of fold would be actually practical for what I'm designing? I like the idea of a simple leaflet that holds itself together, so that it's more compact. I then experimented with creating a fold which had a tad to secure itself shut.

I started with creating these leaflets that folded up into each other, but found that they weren't actually containing themselves and still sprung up how regular leaflets do.

After following the diagram I created a better self-locking leaflet. I like the resemblance to the standard leaflet it has, as well as having something only slightly more advanced added to it. The self-locking feature makes the product seem more valuable and I feel as if when people picked it up to read they would take better care of it as you have to unlock it yourself rather than it just being sprung open like normal leaflets.

OUGD504 / My Design Process / Research

Today we brought in paper to experiment with different folding techniques, using the book 'How to fold' by Pepin Press, I tried out various different leaflet folds and found that the stock I had brought in was too thick- the stock which was thinner enabled me to create much more intricate folds. 

My little folder/ leaflet was nominated to be entered in the competition against the class however it was very small and simple so it didn't get very far. 

I really liked the designs that were submitted, I thought the red one (bottom left) was really impressive- however wouldn't be that practical for an actual leaflet as it is more decorative. This task has made me decide I want a fairly simple and practical folded leaflet but still being interesting. I have been looking at different folding formats on Pinterest to gather inspiration for my own.

I like the simplicity of this one, also how the paper is coloured differently on either side as it creates contrast. It is quite practical and easy which appeals to me also. 

This leaflet also has a theme of diagonal lines, I think this works well in a fold as it's only slightly different to a regular leaflet, still keeping it practical.

I quite like the idea of having a sleeve like this design, this puts the leaflet into a higher class as it shows it needs to be protected, making it seem more valuable. 

These leaflets are actually really basic, however they look slightly different as they have cut diagonally into the pages. I think this works well as they are still as straight forward as a standard leaflet but just looks more interesting and inviting, I think people would be more inclined to pick up these leaflets rather than the standard leaflet.

I think this design (below) is clever as it uses the folds to cover up part of the image, creating a purpose for them visually as well as practically, it also makes the reader interact with the leaflet as they have to uncover what's underneath, I'd like to try out this idea as I think it's fun- using type, uncovering words or letters to show a different meaning.

OUGD504 / Studio Brief 01 / My Design Process / Study Task 01

Today we were set the task to research the creative design process, considering the aspects of the design process that encompass all design practices.
In groups we discussed and wrote down all the aspects and stages of the design process on big sheets. After this we organised the aspects and stages into a visualisation of the design process to present at the end.

I researched the design process online, reading websites such as; 
http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/news-opinion/design-methods-step-1-discover

We organised the stages in to 7 different categories, as we found that a lot of the stages of the design process overlapped and repeated themselves e.g, feedback. We visualised it in a linear format as we wanted the aesthetic to be clear and organised. 

I have found this task helpful as it has reminded me and guided me on how to organise my time and thought process for when we get the next brief.  

OUGD504 / Studio Brief 01 / My Design Process / Briefing

This week we have been set the task to design and produce a folded leaflet entitled "The Design Process" that describes your understanding of the design process and specifically how this is applied to design problems. We are expected to explore and experiment with paper and card stock: folding techniques and styles; and graphic concepts and communication. Our progress, developments and creative decisions should be documented in our studio blog.

Background / Considerations 

∙ Everything that we produce must be designed - the appearance must be thought about.
∙ Leaflets are ubiquitous - it is important to consider not only the potential of leaflet design but also the financial and practical limitations.
∙ Consider the financial, practical and time-based concerns in regards to leaflet design.

Mandatory Requirements

∙ All research, development and decision making should be documented in your studio practice blog.∙ Work including research, experiments, developments, etc. will be presented and neatly labelled on design boards.∙ Demonstrate that you have explored and considered a range of material, folding and printing formats in developing your leaflet.∙ Your leaflet design will describe and explain the design process and as such your design should reflect your understanding of 'process'.∙ Evaluation of at least 500 words.