How Are Illustrations Made?

Hi there!
Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my creative process – I’ll show you exactly how my illustrations are made, from the very first sketch to the final printed design. It’s a process that’s both deeply personal and intuitive, yet also technical and structured. I love blending these two worlds, but it all started with one thing: drawing.

It All Starts with a Blank Sheet of Paper

Every illustration begins in a space where I can connect with myself – most often, surrounded by nature. Sometimes it’s a quiet morning with coffee in my camper van, after a good surf session, or a completely random moment that just stops me in my tracks. That’s when I grab my sketchbook and a pencil, and I start drawing – with no plan, no expectations.
Other times, the creative process begins with a fully formed concept in my mind. It could be something I’ve been dreaming about for a while, or one of my surreal dreams that lingers long after I wake up – and I just have to get it down on paper.
For me, it’s almost like meditation – line by line, I build a world that was once just a feeling. Some days I draw for hours without stopping, other times I just jot down an idea and come back to it later. It’s always a very organic process.

From Sketch to Digital Illustration

Once a drawing feels complete, I scan it and transfer it into a graphic design program – usually Adobe Illustrator (if I’m vectorizing) or Adobe Photoshop. This is when the illustration takes on a whole new life.
I refine the lines, pick the color palette, and sometimes create repeating patterns. This is always the most satisfying stage because I can finally see the piece coming together. I choose the background, adjust the composition, and decide what this artwork will become – a bandana design, a notebook cover, a limited illustration, or maybe just a private sketch that stays hidden in a drawer.

Illustrations That Become Part of Someone’s World

I also create custom illustrations – and that process looks a bit different. I meet with clients (virtually or in person), and we discuss the vision, mood, and emotions they want the project to express.
It’s a balance of freedom and responsibility – I’m creating something unique for someone else.
These custom designs often end up on clothing, in branding, or as decorative prints. It’s amazing to see how they take on a new life in someone else’s world.

How Much Is Technique, and How Much Is Magic?

On the one hand – there’s a lot of technical work involved. In about 90% of cases, I still sketch and paint traditionally on paper. Only in the remaining 10% do I use a drawing tablet. Programs like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop only start to feel intuitive once you truly master them – from knowing the right editing tools to setting up print files with accurate specs.
Don’t forget: every screen displays colors differently, so color testing is a must! I’ve learned all of this through art school and years of trial and error.
On the other hand – there’s plenty of creative magic. Intuition, inner guidance, and that moment when something just clicks, excites, or inspires. Some days, I can’t seem to draw anything that feels right – other days, an idea comes to life in an hour. It’s spontaneous and unpredictable. But I always aim for my illustrations to go beyond just “looking nice” – they should tell a story, set a mood, and carry emotion.

.Thank you for being here and accompanying me on this journey! ✿