Research Point: Swipe File

Prior to starting this course I decided to start a folder with any examples of design that I thought were inspiring or interesting, although I did not know it was called a swipe file. These include adverts from newspapers/magazine; leaflets/posters I have received in the post; page layouts from magazines; business cards I have collected; and I often keep the front of greeting cards. I have recently started using a pinboard for anything that is relevant to what I am currently working on and I will endeavour to implement this with any future projects.

I also save online examples in various Bookmark folders in my browser for easy access. Since starting the course I have also opened a Pinterest account, although I need to use this more regularly, but I can see how it is an excellent resource for visual inspiration.

Keeping both a physical and digital swipe file  is something I want to expand on and will contribute to my development as a designer. I feel it is important to do this to ensure I keep a broad mind in terms of what is current in creative design and for inspiration for new ideas. Without looking at other people’s work you can end up in a creative bubble.