One thing I’ve learned since starting Crafted Runes Studio is that a design can look great on a computer and then just not work when you actually make it.
It’s happened to me more than a few times.
I’ll have something looking exactly the way I want on the screen, make the piece, and immediately see things I should have done differently. Maybe there’s too much detail. Maybe something that looked important on the screen practically disappears. Sometimes the whole thing just feels too busy.
The material makes a difference too. Wood, slate, acrylic and other materials all behave differently, and a design that works well on one may not work nearly as well on another.
I’ve also learned that adding more isn’t always the answer. Sometimes taking something out makes the finished piece much better.
A lot of this comes down to trial and error. You make something, look at the actual finished piece, figure out what worked and what didn’t, and try again.
Our Guide to Engraved Slate Art talks specifically about slate, but I don’t want this blog to be only about engraving slate. I want to use it to share some of the things I’m learning about designing, making, materials, shows and running a small maker business.
I’m still learning too, so I’m sure there will be plenty to talk about.
Where Stone Becomes Story.