Inspiring Reads: Kate Spade, Things We Love

Front cover

I received my copy of Kate Spade New York: Things We Love a couple of days ago. Not being a major fan of Kate Spade it was a bit out of the ordinary for me to purchase the book. However I was lucky enough to have a look inside the book before buying and also read a few reviews which made my decision for me.

The book is hardback and quite large- more of a coffee table book rather than a read on the train kind of book. First impressions are that the book screams of quality. The front cover is colourful and glossy and the pages are edged in gold.
For those looking for a history of the brand or how to become a designer etc this isn't the book for you. There is minimal text and the majority of text is favourite quotes etc that relate to each chapter. The book is more of a visual journey through the brand's inspiration.

Chapter from the book

Each chapter is introduced with a bold image and colourful page insert. The images that make up each chapter are completely varied, some are old black and white photographs, some are from fashion shoots while others are objects or drawings. Its a bit like an upmarket, super organised sketchbook.

If you are a designer or artist I highly recommend this book. The rrp of £25 is a little steep but you definitely get your moneys worth in the quality of the images and overall design of the book. Its a book that I know I will definitely have a flick through when i'm in a bit of a creative rut or before designing a new collection of works.

Images from the book

The book is available from Amazon for around £17.

Paperfolk Likes... Quirky

The last couple of  Paperfolk Likes posts have been focused on patterns that I find to be inspiring. With this one I decided to focus on quirky images and artworks that I have been storing away. One of the aims of Paperfolk is to try to create unusual designs that always start their life as illustrations. I'm always looking for new characters, compositions and fantastical places that will eventually become a new product.
I have always been inspired by Japan because of the use of colour and attention to detail (especially with packaging). The Paperfolk pinterest boards are always full of Japanese products and artworks.

The images above have inspired me greatly. Although I always create my own works I find that looking at other works helps to get me to the right place mentally so I can produce my own designs.

More Paperfolk Likes posts coming soon...

Paperfolk Likes...Stripes

The second post in my Paperfolk Likes series is on my next favourite design... Stripes! I love stripes because they are so simple yet create a huge impact. Unlike other patterns stripes always seem to come back into fashion and can be worn by anyone of any age. I love combining stripes with shapes and bold colour to keep designs fresh and youthful.

The collage above is a selection of images that I have found to be inspiring when i'm trying to create a collection and i'm faced with the dreaded white page in my sketchbook.

More Paperfolk Likes posts to follow soon...