Audio: How I Stumbled Upon the DIY Designer

Since I've recently begun using the term "DIY Designer" in an official capacity, I thought it would helpful to provide some background information. For example, how I came upon the DIY Designer, why I am so passionate about equipping them, etc.

Rather than do a blog post, I decided audio would be a better medium. Plus, you get to hear my lovely voice.  :)

I hope you enjoy this casual recording - and please don't hesitate to post any questions!

FYI (3/10/17): My friend's website, lklandscapedesign.com, which I mention in the audio file, is currently going through a redesign.

How I Stumbled Upon the DIY Designer | .mp3 | .m4a  |

P.S. You can learn more about the characteristics and struggles of the DIY Designer via this blog post.

The Future of the Web - And Why We Need to Equip The DIY Designer Now

Recently, I've started delving into CSS Grid, Flexbox, and the future of design on the web. Mostly in part to the amazing material of Jen Simmons, who I saw present at the recent Web Design Day conference.

As a web designer, the emergence of these tools (for lack of a better word) excites me. Why? Well, I don't know about you, but I'm tired of making the same 'ole responsive layout! Hero graphics, three buttons in a row, content centered down the page, etc.

In fact, when I created the Savvy Side Projects website not too long ago, my original desire was to mirror a publication. I wanted a multi-column layout, stunning typography, etc. For inspiration, I got on Pinterest and pinned all these really cool, awesome magazine layouts. But then, when I went to create the site using our good 'ole friend Bootstrap ('cause #habits), I ended up boxing myself in and creating something far from what my imagination originally wanted.

Of course, having immersed myself in Jen Simmons' material since, I realize I could have achieved a fair portion of that concept using some of the techniques she touches on. (And someday I will probably go back and redo the site accordingly.) But what excites me is this -

DIY Designer Defined

If you're reading this post, chances are you landed here through a link I shared somewhere out in the digital universe.

Since I've started using "DIY Designer" as an official term - and since I'm all about simplicity - I decided to house the definition in a permanent location. This way, I can link to it from multiple places and you can read it anytime, anywhere. I've also included why the emergence of the DIY Designer is an amazing opportunity for the professional industry, and things you can do to help equip them. (If you so choose.)

Note: At some point, I probably need to come up a snazzier term that rolls off the tongue a bit easier. But for now, DIY Designer will do. 

Characteristics of a DIY Designer

So who am I talking about when I use the term DIY Designer?

In a nutshell, a DIY Designer has the following traits: