Assignment objective: create a greeting card meeting specific requirements - 5" x 4" size when folded, full-bleed design on the front, small design on the bottom of the back outside panel with name and current year, and a design on one of the inside panels. Techniques required included gradient fill, custom pattern, basic shapes, drawing modes, Adobe fonts, or packaging the Illustrator file. Saving print-ready PDF files and applying full bleed to a print document was also necessary.
I decided to create a Valentine's card featuring donuts as the main theme. To start, I carefully selected a color scheme for Valentine's Day, which is displayed on the left side of the card. I created rectangles of these colors for easy access, although I might consider using color swatches next time. Using the ellipse tool, I crafted the donuts and then added another ellipse for the frosting. To give the frosting a dripping effect, I added points strategically. I duplicated, rotated, and resized the donuts to create a visually appealing arrangement. Next, I created various patterns using circles, rounded rectangles, and hearts and saved them as swatches. These patterns were then used to add sprinkles to the frosting. For the lettering, I used a stylus on the screen, and although it was a bit challenging to master, I eventually figured it out. I applied a gradient of red and hot pink to the lettering and enjoyed the flexibility of moving the different elements of the text once it was complete. I also included a personalized message on the inside of the card, and added a logo with my signature on the back using the stylus again.
I am pleased with how the card turned out, although in hindsight, I would consider using a font instead of the stylus for the front text. I was just so excited to try the Wacom. Additionally, I realized that I forgot to include "Happy Valentine's Day" on the card, so I would make sure to add that, as it is intended to be a special card for my daughter.
I was looking forward to this project from the moment I read the class syllabus because I struggle to find greeting cards that express my sarcasm and affection. It made me realize that there is a real need for greeting cards that are both witty and genuine, and I even began daydreaming about starting my own line of cards one day. This lesson was very valuable.