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When I first started exploring ways to elevate my brand, I quickly realised that personalised graphic design was a game changer. It’s not just about making things look pretty; it’s about creating a visual identity that truly speaks to who you are and what you stand for. If you’re looking to boost your brand and make a lasting impression, custom graphic design solutions are the way to go. Why Custom Graphic Design Solutions Matter You might wonder why custom design matters so much in today’s crowded market. Well, think about it this way: your brand is like a person. It has a personality, a story, and a unique voice. Off-the-shelf designs or generic templates just don’t capture that essence. Custom graphic design solutions allow you to express your brand’s individuality in a way that resonates deeply with your audience. For example, when I worked with a local textile business and crafted a bespoke logo, the design reflected the friendly and trustworthy approach they wanted to create. As a result the company saw an increase in sales due a the connection they had with the brand. That’s the power of design tailored just for you. Creating a unique logo design for a local business Custom designs also help you stand out from competitors. In a place like Sheffield or anywhere in the UK, where small businesses are thriving, having a unique visual identity can be the difference between blending in and being remembered. What are some graphic design services? When it comes to graphic design, there’s a whole world of services that can help you shape your brand’s look and feel. Here are some of the key ones I often recommend: Logo Design : Your logo is the face of your brand. A custom logo ensures you’re instantly recognisable and memorable. Brand Identity Development : This includes colour schemes, typography, and overall style guidelines that keep your brand consistent across all platforms. Marketing Materials : Flyers, brochures, posters, and business cards designed to grab attention and communicate your message clearly. Social Media Graphics : Custom images and templates that make your social media posts pop and engage your audience. Website Graphics : From banners to icons, well-designed graphics improve user experience and keep visitors interested. Packaging Design : If you sell products, packaging that reflects your brand’s personality can boost sales and customer loyalty. Each of these services can be tailored to your specific needs, ensuring your brand looks cohesive and professional everywhere it appears. Designing a flyer with custom graphics for brand consistency How Personalised Design Builds Trust and Connection One of the most rewarding things I’ve noticed about personalised graphic design is how it builds trust. When your visuals are consistent and thoughtfully crafted, people feel more confident in your brand. It shows you care about the details and are serious about your business. For instance, a small business I worked with wanted to attract a more clientele by interacting with them at events. We developed a thought provoking calm, reflective design style that portrayed their quality and attention to detail. The feedback was fantastic with the client being happy with the the outcome of the design. Personalised design also helps you connect emotionally. Colours, shapes, and fonts all evoke feelings. When these elements are chosen with care, they tell your story without words. It’s like having a conversation with your audience every time they see your brand. Practical Tips for Getting Started with Custom Graphic Design If you’re ready to dive into custom graphic design solutions, here are some practical steps to help you get started: Define Your Brand Personality Think about what makes your business unique. Are you friendly and approachable, or professional and authoritative? Your design should reflect this. Gather Inspiration Look at brands you admire and note what appeals to you. This will help your designer understand your taste and vision. Work with a Professional While DIY tools are tempting, a professional designer brings expertise and creativity that can elevate your brand beyond the ordinary. If you’re interested, check out graphic design services that specialise in tailored solutions for small businesses. Be Open to Feedback Design is a process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and request revisions until it feels just right. Think Long-Term Your brand will grow and evolve, so choose designs that can adapt and stay relevant over time. Bringing Your Brand to Life with Crafty Penguin I’ve found that partnering with a trusted designer makes all the difference. Crafty Penguin, understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses and individuals across Sheffield and the UK. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on delivering results that truly boost your brand presence. Whether you need a fresh logo, eye-catching marketing materials, or a complete brand overhaul, I offer expert, tailored marketing and graphic design solutions that help you grow. It’s about more than just visuals, it’s about creating a brand that feels authentic and inspires confidence. If you’re curious to see what’s possible, I highly recommend exploring my portfolio . It’s full of inspiring examples that show how custom graphic design solutions can transform a business. Workspace showing the creative process behind custom graphic design Your Brand Deserves to Shine At the end of the day, your brand deserves to shine in a way that’s uniquely yours. Custom graphic design solutions offer a powerful way to express your identity, connect with your audience, and stand out in a busy marketplace. It’s an investment that pays off in trust, recognition, and growth. So, why not take that step today? Embrace the possibilities of personalised design and watch your brand come alive like never before. Louise Cranstone-Spooner Marketing and Graphic Design Consultant | Founder of Crafty Penguin

Back in July, I completed the Branding and Marketing Strategy course  with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) . Now, four months later, I’ve been reflecting on how this experience has influenced my approach to marketing and how it continues to shape my work today, both as a Marketing Manager and through my freelance projects at Crafty Penguin . When I first enrolled on the course, I wanted to take a step back from the day-to-day of campaign management and strengthen my understanding of the strategic side of marketing . I’ve always had a growth mindset , believing there’s always something new to learn and that professional development should never stop. That belief has been central to my career journey, from starting out as a Marketing Assistant to leading marketing and brand activity across multiple projects today. The CIM Branding and Marketing Strategy course  offered the ideal opportunity to bridge creativity and strategy. It deepened my knowledge of how to align marketing plans with business goals, refine brand positioning, and build long-term strategies that drive measurable results. 1. Marketing Strategy and Planning This section focused on how to develop structured, insight-led marketing plans that align with wider business objectives. I learned how to use data, research, and customer insight  to create meaningful strategies that deliver measurable results. This learning has become a cornerstone of my everyday work. Whether I’m developing a long-term marketing plan or a short-term campaign, I now approach each project with clarity and purpose, ensuring that every activity supports the overall business goals and reaches the right audience at the right time. 2. Innovation Strategies The course also explored how to embed creativity and innovation  within marketing strategy, an area that feels increasingly vital in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. The rise of AI and digital transformation  has reshaped how marketers work. Since completing the course, I’ve become more confident using AI tools to streamline processes and uncover insights. But innovation isn’t just about adopting new technology, it’s about staying curious, testing ideas, and remaining adaptable in an ever-evolving industry. 3. Brand Strategy and Management The final section, brand strategy and management , had perhaps the greatest influence on my mindset. It explored how to build and maintain brands that evolve over time while staying true to their core values. A strong brand strategy  goes far beyond a logo or visual identity, it’s about creating a consistent brand experience, establishing trust, and forging emotional connections. This is something I carry into my work at Crafty Penguin , where I help businesses bring their brands to life through thoughtful design and strategic marketing. Reflecting on the Impact Looking back now, I can clearly see how much this course has shaped my professional development. It’s strengthened my ability to think strategically, plan effectively, and approach branding and marketing with a long-term, purpose-driven mindset. Completing the CIM Branding and Marketing Strategy certificate  has been a defining step in my journey. It’s encouraged me to combine creativity with strategy, and it’s reinforced the importance of being a lifelong learner, something that’s essential for any marketer who wants to stay relevant and innovative. I’m excited to continue applying what I’ve learned to future projects, helping brands grow with intention, creativity, and confidence. If you’re thinking about investing in your professional development , I’d highly recommend exploring the Chartered Institute of Marketing . Their courses offer practical, strategic insight that you can apply directly to your work. Question: Is lifelong learning important in marketing? Absolutely.  Marketing is one of the fastest-changing industries, shaped by evolving technologies, shifting consumer behaviour, and emerging platforms. Lifelong learning allows marketers to stay relevant, think strategically, and adapt to change with confidence. Continuous development, whether through formal training, workshops, or self-directed learning, helps ensure that creativity and innovation remain at the heart of every marketing strategy. Louise Cranstone-Spooner Marketing and Graphic Design Consultant | Founder of Crafty Penguin

How Crafty Penguin Helps Small Businesses Make a Real Impact with Graphic Design and Marketing Services At Crafty Penguin , I specialise in combining creative graphic design with strategic marketing. My goal is to help small businesses and entrepreneurs across the UK stand out, connect with their audience, and grow successfully. If you’re a small business owner or start-up looking to build a strong brand presence and increase your customer base, I have five top services designed to bring your vision to life and deliver measurable results: 1. Bespoke Marketing Strategy for Small Businesses A well-crafted marketing strategy is essential for reaching your target audience effectively. I develop tailored marketing plans that align with your business goals. This approach improves engagement and drives sustainable growth. 2. Unique Brand Identity Design That Reflects Your Values Your brand identity is more than just a logo; it’s your story, values, and personality all wrapped into one. I create memorable logos and consistent brand visuals that help you make a lasting impression and differentiate yourself from competitors. 3. Professional Graphic Design Services From printed flyers and brochures to striking social media graphics, my graphic design services ensure your marketing materials captivate your audience and encourage action. I believe that good design can make a significant difference in how your brand is perceived. 4. Compelling Content Creation and Copywriting Clear and persuasive messaging is key to connecting with your customers. I craft engaging content and copywriting tailored to your brand voice. This helps you communicate your value and boost conversions. Remember, words matter, and the right message can inspire action. 5. Digital Marketing Support to Expand Your Reach Navigating digital channels can be challenging for small businesses. I offer expert digital marketing support to maximise your online presence. Together, we can build meaningful customer relationships and increase your brand awareness. Why Choose Crafty Penguin? Choosing the right partner for your marketing and design needs is crucial. At Crafty Penguin, I understand the unique challenges faced by small businesses. I take the time to listen to your needs and tailor my services accordingly. My approach is personal, and I genuinely care about your success. The Importance of a Strong Brand Presence In today's competitive market, having a strong brand presence is vital. It helps you stand out and attract the right customers. With my expertise, I can help you create a brand that resonates with your audience. A well-defined brand identity not only builds trust but also fosters loyalty. How to Get Started Getting started with Crafty Penguin is simple. Just reach out for a free consultation. During our chat, we can discuss your goals and how I can help you achieve them. I’m here to support you every step of the way. Ready to Elevate Your Small Business Brand? If you’re ready to grow your business with expert graphic design and marketing tailored to your needs, visit www.craftypenguin.co.uk today. Get in touch now for a free consultation and discover how Crafty Penguin can help your brand make a real impact! Louise Cranstone-Spooner

The Future of Marketing Is Already Here Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer something reserved for big brands or tech companies. It ’s become an everyday tool that’s transforming how small businesses market themselves. From content creation and SEO to automation and customer insights, AI is changing the way we connect with audiences. Far from replacing creativity, it’s helping marketers and business owners focus on what really matters: strategy, storytelling, and building relationships. Turning Data into Decisions One of AI’s biggest strengths lies in its ability to process data at speed. It can analyse trends, measure engagement, and identify what’s working (and what’s not) across your marketing channels. For small businesses, this makes professional-level insights accessible without the hefty price tag. With AI-driven tools, you can understand your audience more clearly and make decisions based on facts not guesswork. Creating and Personalising Content AI has become an invaluable partner in content marketing. It can help brainstorm ideas, write outlines, optimise for SEO, and even tailor messaging for different audience segments. For example, you might use AI to refine craft a personalised email sequence or plan a social media schedule. The result? Content that reaches the right people, at the right time, with the right message. Large email companies like Mailchimp are building AI in to their platform to allow users for flexibility and personalisation. Saving Time Through Smart Automation AI powered automation is a huge time-saver for marketers and business owners. Scheduling posts, tracking performance, and even managing paid ads can now happen automatically. Many content scheduling tools like Later and also Canva are making this possible. This gives you back valuable time to focus on creativity and designing, writing authentic content, or engaging directly with your audience. Balancing Technology with the Human Touch While AI can do a lot, it can’t replace human understanding. The best marketing still relies on empathy, creativity, and connection. You have to know your audience and customers, personalisation is key. At Crafty Penguin, I believe in using AI as a tool to enhance  your marketing, not replace it. It helps us work smarter and deliver more value but every project still needs to be guided by real people who understand your business goals and brand personality. How Crafty Penguin Uses AI to Support Clients I use AI to make marketing more efficient and impactful. From generating SEO insights and content ideas to supporting design inspiration, these tools help me deliver stronger, data-driven results for my clients. My approach combines marketing strategy, creativity, and technology all while helping small businesses grow online with confidence. Ready to See What AI Could Do for Your Marketing? If you’re ready to explore how AI can make your marketing more efficient and effective, I’d love to help. Get in touch with Crafty Penguin to find out how we can work together to create a tailored strategy that combines creativity, data, and innovation, all built around your brand’s unique story. Louise Cranstone-Spooner

LinkedIn remains the go-to platform for professional networking and B2B marketing at the moment, but like every digital space, it’s constantly evolving. I recently attended a brilliant webinar led by Lily Deal on how to master LinkedIn’s algorithm in 2025, and it was packed with practical tips and insights. Here’s what I learned and how you can apply it to your personal brand or business page. Visibility is Down – But Not All is Lost LinkedIn now has over 1 billion users, and with 40% of the feed filled with sponsored posts, organic reach is declining. In fact, only 10% of your followers or connections will see your content unless it gets early engagement. That means your posts need to stop the scroll within 3 seconds, otherwise, they get deprioritised. You can help combat this by being active on the channel when your posts go live. Go on there reply to comments on your post and show the algorithm that you are an active user. Don't just post and ghost. Personal Profiles Perform Better One of the biggest takeaways was the power of personal profiles. These consistently get up to 5 times more engagement than company pages. Why? Because people want to engage with people. A personal tone, storytelling, and regular posting (3–5 times a week) help build trust and visibility. This is why growing a personal brand on the platform is important, it shows you as a voice in your industry and builds trust. That said, company pages still matter. Posting at least once a week, spotlighting team members, and sharing behind-the- scenes content can all help humanise your brand. What Kind of Content Works? The algorithm in 2025 is all about relevance, quality, and time spent on your post (known as dwell time). Here’s what’s working well: Carousel posts – 2 to 5 slides, packed with value (checklists, guides, cheat sheets) Polls with 2–3 options Images and infographics Content over 500 characters that offers insight or a strong perspective Hooks that grab attention – a stat, personal story or bold question Importantly, avoid using too many external links. LinkedIn prefers users to stay on the platform, so native content is prioritised. If you want to use a link, it's best to add this in the comment section of your post. Mastering LinkedIn Strategy is Key Consistency is vital, avoid ghost posting or uploading content without a clear purpose. Every post should aim to help, inform, or inspire. Follow these posting tips: Don’t use more than 3–5 hashtags Leave 12–18 hours between posts Post when your audience is active, ideally 8–10am or 12–1pm Encourage engagement during the first hour (the “Golden Hour”) to boost reach And don’t forget to engage with others too, leaving 10 quality comments per day can grow your visibility by up to 25%. Final Thoughts Whether you’re building your personal brand or managing a company page, the message is clear: people engage with people. Focus on sharing value, showing up consistently, and sparking genuine conversation. At Crafty Penguin, I’m passionate about combining marketing strategy with creative design and platforms like LinkedIn are a big part of that mix. If you’re rethinking your approach to LinkedIn this year, or just want to refresh your content, now’s a great time to experiment and learn what resonates. Want help creating content that connects? Let’s chat about how I can support your marketing strategy, whether it’s through branding, design or social media. Louise Cranstone-Spooner

It has taken me over 6 months to get my small business re-branded, Crafty Penguin, but it's finally done. I wanted to share with you more about my re-branding journey and why I chose to re-brand. Graphic Design - Learning and developing skills My workspace featuring the new Crafty Penguin branding Over the last year or so I have been thinking about how to develop Crafty Penguin. Moving forward I want to grow Crafty Penguin in to a Graphic Design business. I want to work with small businesses and individuals, whether you're based in Sheffield like Crafty Penguin or further a field. I have a background in design and have spent lots of time developing my skills and learning various software since I started Crafty Penguin back in 2018. The outlook for Crafty Penguin then was very different from what it is today. It started out as a way for me to regain my creativity and it began with drawing penguins. Now I feel is the right time to take the leap and think seriously about the future of Crafty Penguin. With a change in my outlook, which would impact my target audience I felt I needed to re-brand to a more professional aesthetic and appeal to the right audience. Branding - New colour and logo The new Crafty Penguin logo I wanted to have a more sophisticated and professional looking brand. I spent lots of time deciding whether or not to change my brand name, but I have kept this. I felt that a lot of people know me for Crafty Penguin, therefore I thought it would be hard to build up that trust from scratch again, when I already have a brand people are familiar with. The colours and logo have changed. I have completed the whole re-branding of my brand myself. I made the decisions on my colour scheme and created a brand board to help me visualise it all together. Reading and learning more about marketing Website - Learning more about SEO and marketing Along side the logo and colour scheme my website has had a makeover too. Branding is about far more than just a logo and I wanted everything related to my brand to work together. I spent lots of time reading and learning about SEO as well as marketing to help me with my website. I also worked on the design of the website to make it a much better experience for visitors. Creating mugs for a small business Small Business - Working together and providing design services With the re-brand and new focus for my business. I'm forward looking to working with more individuals and small businesses to enhance their branding, products and design services. If you need help with graphic design and printing for your business find out more more about the design services Crafty Penguin can offer you. Crafty Penguin has already worked with many small businesses and continues to do so. The type of work that Crafty Penguin has done with small business so far is: - Printed photographers photographs on to mugs. - Printed tote bags with an artists illustrations. - Created logos for small businesses. - Cut and printed vinyl for signage. - Designed a DVD cover for a theatre group. Other examples of my work can be found in my portfolio . If you want to find out more about my re-branding journey you can watch my You Tube video as I documented the processes I went through. I hope this blog has been useful, make sure you read my other blog posts. If you have enjoyed it make sure you follow me on social media to find out more about my business and my love of graphic design. Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Louise Cranstone-Spooner

Your Brand Is More Than Just a Logo: Why Your Brand Identity Matters When people think of branding, they often picture a logo, a neat symbol, a splash of colour, or a clever typeface. But the truth is, your brand is so much more than that. As a marketing and branding specialist based in Sheffield, I help businesses understand that true branding goes far beyond the surface. At Crafty Penguin , I work with small businesses and entrepreneurs to develop powerful brand identities that connect with their audiences and position them for growth. A logo is just one piece of the puzzle. What really matters is the meaning behind it. Discovering Your Why Your brand should tell a story — a story about who you are, what you do, and most importantly, why you do it . As Simon Sinek said: “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” This concept is at the heart of every effective marketing strategy. Understanding your why  is essential if you want your brand to resonate with your ideal customer. When you have clarity on your purpose, your values, and your vision, you’re not just building a business — you’re building a brand with depth. Branding Is About Perception Your brand identity  shapes how people perceive your business. It includes your tone of voice, your visual style, your messaging, and your presence across different platforms. Strong, consistent branding builds trust — and trust builds customer loyalty. If you think branding is just a logo, you’re missing the opportunity to truly connect with your audience. It’s a common misconception, but one that can hold your business back. How I Can Help You Build Your Brand At Crafty Penguin , I combine years of real-world marketing experience with up-to-date knowledge gained through continuous professional development. Whether you’re starting a new venture or refreshing an existing brand, I can help you: Define your brand’s purpose and message Create a consistent visual identity Develop a marketing strategy that aligns with your goals Improve your visibility in your industry If you’re a small business owner or start-up founder looking for branding support in Sheffield  or beyond, I’d love to help you bring your brand to life. Let’s build something meaningful — because your brand is more than just a logo. Would you like meta descriptions, SEO-friendly titles, or structured content for use on your homepage or blog section too? Louise Cranstone-Spooner

My Experience in the Girls in Marketing Digital Marketing Growth Programme 2025 I’m thrilled to share that was accepted onto the Girls in Marketing Growth Programme for the second year running! This year’s programme ran from 28 May to 6 June 2025, and it was an incredible journey of learning, connection, and professional development. Why I Joined the Girls in Marketing Growth Programme Last year marked my first experience with the Girls in Marketing Growth Programme. It was such a transformative opportunity, that I not only completed the programme but also became a member of Girls in Marketing community. The experience was eye-opening, giving me access to: Fresh marketing insights from leading industry professionals Networking with ambitious, like-minded women in marketing Personal development through structured, high-impact training sessions The Value of Continuous Learning in Digital Marketing As a passionate marketing and branding professional, I’m a firm believer in the power of lifelong learning. The Girls in Marketing Growth Programme is packed with practical knowledge and strategic guidance, helping marketers at all levels to boost their confidence, creativity, and capabilities. Each session, whether focused on digital content strategy, SEO, or the latest marketing trends is delivered with actionable takeaways I could immediately implement. How the Programme Supports My Work at Crafty Penguin Being part of the Growth Programme has been instrumental in sharpening my marketing skills and keeping me up to date with the latest tools and techniques. This directly benefits the brands and businesses I work with at Crafty Penguin, allowing me to offer even more value through content creation, brand strategy, and design. My 2025 Growth Programme Experience Being accepted onto this programme for a second year was both an honour and a challenge I was eager to embrace. This year’s experience was a little different, I was on holiday for some of the live sessions. However, the flexible, on-demand access to recordings and presentation slides meant I could continue my learning journey at my own pace, fitting it around my schedule. The 2025 line-up was packed with valuable sessions, including: TikTok strategy SEO content planning Brand storytelling Building effective paid media campaigns Expert-led sessions provided practical and inspiring insights, and I’ve already started applying what I’ve learned to my work at Crafty Penguin. Learning Never Stops Even on Holiday! One of the best things about the Girls in Marketing Digital Marketing Growth Programme is the flexibility it offers. Even while travelling, I could keep up with the latest marketing trends and techniques. The programme’s structure ensures that participants can learn at their own pace, making it accessible for busy professionals. Final Thoughts and Recommendations If you’re a marketer looking to grow in 2025, I highly recommend exploring what Girls in Marketing has to offer. The Growth Programme is an excellent opportunity to learn from industry leaders, connect with peers, and take your skills to the next level. Learning truly never stops, and with Girls in Marketing, you’ll always have the support and resources you need to keep moving forward. Are you ready to boost your marketing skills in 2025? Check out the Girls in Marketing website and join the conversation! Louise Cranstone-Spooner

My stall at a recent event Attending a craft fair can be very daunting, especially if it is your first event. Once you have took the plunge and booked your event, it's time to make sure you are as prepared as you can be. Since launching Crafty Penguin I have attended many craft fairs and have experienced the highs and lows of these events. I have also learnt many invaluable tips and tricks along the way. You can't predict how these events will go, but you can ensure you prepare well each time. Most importantly make sure you know the date and time of the event and where it is. You don't want to get that mixed up or turn up at the wrong place. I have spent time driving around trying to find places in the past and it doesn't help to calm the nerves. How to prepare for a craft fair as a Designer? So to help you get the most out of your craft fair here are my top tips. Tip #1 - How to make your stall eye catching as a Designer Stall layout using brand colours and height Your stall needs to be eye catching to those attending the craft fair. Strong use of your brand colours is a good way for people to get to know you and your brand. People who already know you will recognise you instantly. At a recent event a lady came up to me and said she remembered me from a previous event she had attended, she remembered my brand name. Personally I like to use a banner on my stall and branded bunting, I also colour code my table in my brand colours. For me this is primarily blue and white. Adding height to your stall is also important, so people can see some of your products before they get to your table. You can do this in various ways, I use a range of different shelves to draw peoples interest. Make sure your stall is easy for customers to explore. Don't add all your products to your stall, showcase a collection of your products and designs. Tip #2 - How to plan before the event Coaster stock in display stand Before the event it is a good idea to get everything prepared. I like to do a stock check so that I know exactly what products I have in stock. I use google sheets, where I can easily update my inventory on my laptop or on my phone. Always make sure you have the correct information for the event. Know the times, date and location. Also check whether you need to provide a table for your stall. I have done stalls where they have been provided and where I have had to take my own. Also if you are outside don't forget to check about gazebos and think about how you might protect your stall and stock if the weather is against you and it rains. I bought a large plastic sheet that I can lay over the top of my stall in the event of bad weather. Tip #3 - One the day Enjoying a bacon sandwich and a coffee On the day of the craft fair make sure you leave enough time to pack all your stock, table, promotional items and food and drink for the day. I always take a bottle of juice and a small snack with me just to make sure that I have something to keep me going for the day. You never know how busy it may get and if you're on your own you might not have time to join a long queue. Most events have stalls where you can buy food. I have had some lovely food courtesy of other stall holders. I do love a good bacon sandwich and a chocolate bun. Make sure you have a float of money and somewhere safe to keep it. I use a cash box but also have an apron that I tie around my waist to allow me to take everything with me should I need leave my stall. Chat to other stall holders. I always like to have a walk around an event before it starts if I get the chance. It's a good idea to get to know the stalls next to you as you never know when they might come in helpful. Usually when you need to nip to the toilet or fetch a cup of coffee. As a lot of people are often on their own, you may need to keep an eye on each others stalls for these moments. Make sure you arrive in plenty of time at the venue to get set up before the event starts, and check on the rules for packing away at the end of the day. Most importantly of all smile and enjoy yourself. Tip #4 - Do you need insurance? I have read many different opinions on this question. Personally I would advise you to get a Certificate of public and products liability insurance and Certificate of professional indemnity insurance. For the amount that it costs I think it is much better to be safe than sorry. Tip #5 - Buy a trolley! Sack trolley The best thing I ever did for attending craft fairs was to buy a trolley. It has made my life so much easier. I bought a small folding sack trolley that fits easily behind the seat in my car. It's great, I can stack all my boxes with stock onto it and any bags, meaning I generally only have to make one trip between my car and my stall. One slight downside, it's not that easy to lift up and down steps! Just go for it! If you are a designer, illustrator or a master of some other craft and are considering doing a craft fair or attending an event the best tip I could give you would be to go for it! If you want to keep up to date with all the latest events I'm attending check out my social media . I hope this blog has been useful, make sure you read my other blog posts. If you have enjoyed it make sure you follow me on social media to find out more about my business and my love of graphic design. Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Louise Cranstone-Spooner

Canva is a online graphic design tool that was created in Australia by Melanie Perkins, Cliff Obrecht and Cameron Adams. Over the last few years it has grown massively online. Whilst it has grown in its popularity it seems to have caused a stir with in the graphic design community. Graphic Design Studio social media post designed in Canva Should I use Canva? As a graphic designer and marketer I do use Canva myself. I believe that the platform has a place that I personally find beneficial within my work. So controversial as the platform might be it certainly has a lot to offer everyone from the novice designer to those working with in graphic design on a daily basis. Design Services collage created in Canva How I discovered Canva? I first discovered Canva a couple of years ago when I became involved in an online market during the time that we were all stuck at home and using the internet more than ever to communicate with each other. As part of the event the organisers sent out templates to help promote the event. They allowed those taking part to add photos of their products and their brand logo to custom templates and showcase the event. The beauty of Canva for collaboration is fantastic. As a graphic designer I use the full suite of Adobe programs on my computer and I'm more than capable of creating high quality graphics and artwork. However, not everyone taking part in these events has access to the software or has the skills to be able to create artwork. The event was a makers event so covered everything from design and illustration through to those working with other media like clay and fabric. Custom Design social media post created in Canva Adobe Creative Suite v Canva As someone who uses a range of programs from Adobe Creative Suite on a daily basis I have the skill set to be able to create high quality images, artwork and even videos. However, Adobes Creative Suite is an expense that others don't necessarily want or need to subscribe to. Canva fills this gap in the market. It allows small businesses whose expertise are not in in graphic design to be able to market their business successfully and with out added costs. Montage of images created using Canva Why do I use Canva? I primarily use Canva for 2 reasons. 1 - Inspiration If I need inspiration for a project I will often type some keywords in the search function of Canva and see what designs it shows me. These then inspire my work in Adobe software. 2 - Time When I'm planning and creating content for social media. It is easy to spend far too much time as a small business creating content for your social media accounts. So to help manage my time I often use Canva to create social media posts. It is quick and easy to do and templates can be modified to match my brand colours. Design Service social media post created in Canva So why are Graphic Designers against Canva? Well... like anything I think they are worried that it dumbs down their skills and allows anyone to be able to create good quality designs. But... it has its place. Then, so do Graphic Designers. Even with a online platform like Canva you can't know all the theory behind graphic design and also have the creative skill that those working in the industry do. I do believe that there is a place for graphic design and this can be complimented with the use of Canva. For small business Canva is a great way to keep costs down and allow collaboration with others. Collaboration on Canva is for me one of its key advantages. All of the images with in this blog post were created using with Canva. Below is a nice touch from Canva, it sends you milestone certificates when you use its software. A nice little added bonus. I hope this blog has been useful, make sure you read my other blog posts. If you have enjoyed it make sure you follow me on social media to find out more about my business and my love of graphic design. Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Louise Cranstone-Spooner

The use of colours in artwork is important, so colour correction for Graphic Design is critical. It is key to making sure your colours look correct in the media you chose. If you have had any experience with design you may well of heard of two acronyms RGB and CMYK. As a graphic designer there are two main colour ways that you should be aware of. RGB - Red, green, blue CMYK - Cyan, magenta, yellow and black How do the colour spaces work with colour correction? RGB is used for digital designs as this is used for screens, like computers and mobile phones. Screens use the three colours and mix them to to create the colour spectrum by varying the intensity of the light source. When red, green and blue are all mixed together in this format they create pure white. CMYK is used primarily used for print. Printing machines create colour by mixing CMYK with physical inks. When all 4 colours are mixed together they create black. RGB When should I use RGB? If you are creating digital designs for online then RGB is the colour space you will need to use. Use RGB for: Social media posts Online logos Online headers Website design Digital apps CMYK When should I use CMYK? If you are creating designs to be printed then you should use CMYK. Use CMYK for: Brochures Stationery Business cards Flyers Magazines How can I make sure my artwork is in the right colour space? When using design software light Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator the software allows you to choose the right colour way for your artwork in its properties. Setting colour space in Adobe Photoshop Ensuring you use the correct colour space as a graphic designer is important. It is also important if you are a small business owner preparing design work for third party printing. Using the right colour space allows your colours to appear the way you expected when having products printed. I hope this blog has been useful, make sure you read my other blog posts. If you have enjoyed it make sure you follow me on social media to find out more about my business and my love of graphic design. Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Louise Cranstone-Spooner

Creating a professional brand is more than just picking a name or a font. It’s about crafting an entire identity that captures what your business stands for and how it wants to be perceived by customers. At Crafty Penguin, my graphic design studio based in Sheffield, I focus on two key elements to help clients establish a memorable, professional brand: brand colours and logo design. I’ll walk you through how I use these elements effectively and offer tips that will help you develop a brand that truly stands out. Why Brand Colours Matter Colour psychology is an essential factor in creating an effective brand identity. Your brand colours are often the first thing customers notice, and they set the tone for how your brand is perceived. Each colour has its own psychological impact, affecting how people feel when they see your brand. Crafty Penguin’s Colour Choices At Crafty Penguin, I chose a colour palette that reflects the core values of creativity, approachability, and professionalism. I use a combination of cool blues and softer tones to create an atmosphere of trustworthiness and friendliness. Blue, known for promoting a sense of reliability and calm, is our anchor colour. It helps us convey a sense of dependability, while softer, welcoming tones add an approachable touch. Tips for Choosing Brand Colours: Understand the Psychology of Colours:  Blue evokes trust, green symbolises growth, and red signifies energy. Choose colours that align with your business’s message. Limit the Colour Palette:  Stick to two or three main colours to ensure brand cohesion across all platforms. Consistency is Key:  Make sure to apply these colours consistently across every part of your brand, from your website to your social media graphics and packaging. By carefully selecting colours that represent what Crafty Penguin stands for, I create a consistent and recognisable look that customers associate with my brand. Designing a Memorable Logo Your logo is the face of your business, so creating a memorable and professional design is critical. A great logo is simple, easy to recognise, and versatile, adapting seamlessly across different media. At Crafty Penguin, my logo features a charming penguin mascot that embodies our creative, playful, and professional ethos. The penguin is more than just a symbol; it’s part of our story, connecting with clients on an emotional level and adding a bit of fun. Best Practices for Logo Design: Keep it Simple:  Simple logos are easier to recognise and more versatile. Choose Timeless Over Trendy:  A logo that relies on current trends may look outdated in a few years. Opt for classic elements that will stand the test of time. Scalability is Essential:  Your logo should look just as good on a small business card as it does on a large banner or social media profile. In designing the Crafty Penguin logo, I made sure it’s instantly recognisable and suitable for use in various formats. A well-thought-out logo not only helps customers remember your brand but also builds credibility and professionalism. Bringing Colours and Logo Together for a Cohesive Brand Once you’ve chosen your brand colours and designed your logo, the final step is ensuring consistency across all brand touch-points. This includes your website, marketing materials, social media profiles, and packaging. A cohesive brand builds trust and makes your business look professional. At Crafty Penguin, I use my colours and logo consistently to create a cohesive look across all platforms. Final Thoughts on Building a Professional Brand Building a professional brand involves more than just visual choices; it requires thoughtful design and an understanding of what your business represents. By carefully selecting the right brand colours and creating a memorable logo, you can build a brand identity that resonates with customers. Here at Crafty Penguin, I help businesses bring their brand vision to life with a creative and professional approach. If you’re ready to elevate your brand with professional colours and logo design, contact me at Crafty Penguin in Sheffield. Let’s create a brand that captures your business’s essence and stands out from the competition. Louise Cranstone-Spooner