@Iain_McKenzie @blackdiamondeu Cool, cheers mate, might go for that then!
About 12 hours ago
@Iain_McKenzie @blackdiamondeu Yes I'm torn between those two really, both look very suitable. Speed seems more for technical would you say?
About 12 hours ago
Anyone recommend me a multi-day scrambling / cragging (summer and winter) rucksack? Considering @BlackDiamondEU Mission 50…
About 12 hours ago

- Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much do you charge?Think of graphic design as an investment for your business. Good quality design takes time to produce – it is not about sitting at an Apple Mac and making something look pretty. It involves years of experience, hours of research and brainstorming, sketching and perfecting. It is a process which is proven to be successful and will, when done correctly, have a return on investment which far surpasses your initial outlay.
Bloggs' Design charges less than you, can you match their price?Absolutely not. Design is not a commodity. A commodity is a product which is supplied without qualitative differentiation across a market and the price is often based on the supply and demand of that product. Eggs and petrol are examples of commodities.
I have over 14-years of professional design industry experience and have been voted by my clients as RAR Recommended for Design Excellence. Just as a client chooses a designer, I also choose my clients. I only work with clients who appreciate the design process as it is those who benefit most from my work.
My friend has the software and a Mac and said he'll design a logo and brochure for me. Why shouldn't I just get them to do it?If your business is important to you then you'll hire a professional designer. To put it simply, you wouldn't get an unskilled friend to build you a house because chances are they don't understand the fundamentals of the building process and you'll end up with a house that will fall down in a years time. Design is not just about a pretty visual. It's about connecting with your target audience on the right level and communicating the intended marketing message in the right way. Get it wrong and it will kill off your business.
I like a particular current design trend, will you use that?I don't use design trends in my client work. My designs are created with the intent to last for many years to come and are tailored specifically to your target audience. Designs which follow the latest trends are often out-of-date before they even get implemented. They are bland and lack emotional connection. If you have an identity designed by me then it will not require a re-design again in the next 12-months to have it bought up-to-date, that's a false economy.
I have a design which I've put together, will you use that?If you have completed thorough research and have a solid rationale for an idea then, of course, we may be able to use it as a starting point. However I like to do my research and draw upon many years of design experience. My designs are all based on proven grid systems, ratios of hierarchy, colour theories, typographic principles etc. All of this ensures that my designs produce the best possible results for you and your business.
What should I expect from working with a graphic designer?From me you can expect a very high level of professionalism and a passion for the craft of graphic design. I'll be honest and up-front with any advice and I will not allow anything to be produced for your business that will cause damage to your identity and profit. If we choose to work together, you can be assured of a successful outcome.
What does the process involve?Read about my successful design process here.
How quickly can you start a project?This depends on my current work-load. I only work with a small number of clients at any one time. This allows me to produce my absolute best work without compromise. The best thing to do is get in touch and we'll discuss your requirements.
What are your turnaround times?This depends on the scope of the project. As I mentioned elsewhere on this website, good creative work doesn’t often come in a flash of inspiration; it evolves from a process of excellence-based trial and error. I normally ask for up to two weeks, depending on the job’s complexity, before I submit my initial concepts for your review. Of course, if you have a rush project or deadline pressure I will endeavour to adjust my workflow and timing accordingly.
At the end of the project, who owns the rights to the design and what happens next?When everyone is happy with the project and all invoices are settled the design belongs to you. I'll supply you with the appropriate files and continue to offer any design advice or support long after the project has been completed.
Do you create identity or brand guidelines?Yes, if they are required.
Do you only work with clients from the UK?No, I work with clients from all around the world.
Can you help with print production and website development?Yes I can. I have many trusted suppliers in many areas of production. Get in touch and we'll discuss your requirements.
What are your payment terms?Strictly 50% up-front and 50% upon completion of the project, before implementation.
What payment methods do you accept?Invoices can be settled via PayPal, bank transfer and cash payment.
