Ask Nubby Column: Tell Me What You Want!
by Nubby, 04.01.08 at 6:33 am :: permalink :: rss
I’d like to let you know about my weekly column called Ask Nubby. This is your chance to get questions answered on a variety of topics including art, design, fashion, business, style and anything else you can dream up!
The question can be as simple as asking where I got a piece of clothing or what typeface I used for a project to something more in-depth about freelancing or running a business that you’re curious about.
My goal is to create more reader interaction and connect with you on a regular basis.
April 1st, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Dude! This is so awesome. I 100% value any advice you give to anyone, so I’m excited to see everyone’s questions! xoxo.
April 1st, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Hey Nubby! I actually have quite a few questions I have been meaning to ask you. No better time than the present!
I am an interviewer for the livejournal community: http://community.livejournal.com/addmyartjournal/
I was wondering if I could interview you for the community?
The whole basis of it is artists promoting other artists. Right now we just interview people and post different artists work with links to where you can find them on the web. I want to start incorporating tutorials on the business, branding, marketing, selling, merchandise aspects of the art business. I also want to touch on different techniques or tricks of the trade for different mediums. I hope to be able to do tutorials on graffiti, sculpture, silk screening, etc since there seems to be a lot of interest in learning these things in the art community.
So, I was wondering if we could have you as a guest poster (or even mirror some of your articles) in the community with some of your articles that are related to the business, branding and marketing sides of the art business. I don’t know anyone that writes about these things better than you.
I’m also hoping on taking the community and moving it to an actual domain in the next few months and expanding it into an online magazine, blog and general artist resource on the web. Any tips on transforming a site into something like this? The business side of it is the part that I am the most worried about, I don’t want to forget to do something and having it hurt me a few years down the line.
Sorry this is so long!
April 1st, 2008 at 5:20 pm
Yay!!
I’m so excited you’ve decided to go ahead with this…
I have a question for you: I’m just starting to pick up odd design jobs here and there. I’m still in the midst of getting my degree, but I’m super excited to already be working in my field of choice! However, I feel ultra-lost a lot; especially when it comes to time management and pricing. :p Do you have any advice on this aspect of freelancing?
Also: what are your favorite sources for fonts?
I’m a total font junkie who’s always on the hunt for new ones to add to my collection. lol.
Hope this wasn’t too much, all at once! :)
April 1st, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Okay, this one is a bit of a lark, but could you give me any advice for an afternoon date in Portland with a graphic design major, no less? What would you wear on a (probably) rainy afternoon date and what are some of the best galleries, parks or restaurants to visit in PDX? Thanks. _Kate
P.S. Sorry if this one’s a bit too local; feel free to generalize.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Chantelle: Haha, how embarrassing! I’m so glad you caught my mistake! *blush blush*
April 3rd, 2008 at 10:53 am
I’m curious to know how, as someone with an interest in both business/marketing & graphic design/the arts, how you approach networking (both in real life & online). Networking can often be very shallow, where people use one another to advance & solely promote themselves; on the other hand, it can also be a means of building relationships with those you respect & supporting each others endeavors.
So how do *you* do it?
April 3rd, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Gah! I just realized (so many hours later) I may have come across antagonistic; I didn’t mean to ask if you were the type to use & abuse, but rather, you DO seem to have a good sense of networking with people. So I was curious what tips, tools, and secrets of that trade you may have (esp. for someone like myself who is very bad at networking and feels guilty doing it!).
April 3rd, 2008 at 8:35 pm
Ashe: I didn’t take your question that way at all! No worries. :)
April 28th, 2008 at 10:55 am
Ooh! A very fun column, indeed.
I’ve been wondering, with contract work - what is the best way to go about kind of legalising things so that one does not get screwed out of compensation for their work? :)
May 13th, 2008 at 8:57 am
Ok here is one for you!
Im a photographer (who also like to dabble in other forms of fine art and fashion design). Im starting to consider how to market my work as a brand, and putting together a press pack (which your tutorial is very useful for!).
However I am trying to decide whether to use my real name to work under, or whether to work under a artistic/business alias. My birth name isnt that memorable or remarkable so Im not sure whether it would be a good move to work under a different name, and choose something more interesing and memorable. As my work continually changes and I branch out into new areas Im not sure whether to work under one name, or whether to work under various alias (depending on the field eg fashion, fine art). As someone who works in multiple fields I thought you would have some great opinions on this (sorry its long, hope it makes sense!)
May 20th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Auntie is in need of a camera! Need it took take pictures of my fabulous designs… any suggestions?
June 17th, 2008 at 11:10 am
this may be a strange question, but quite simply how do you go about making a website? once the domain name is bought, how do you go about adding content and hosting data? in your experience, how much has having a website cost and what are the returns (monetary and otherwise)? and what do you do about copy writing or protecting your work? have you ever had any experience with people taking credit for your work?
hope you can help :]
June 17th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
hey nubby, I have to say I love love love your blog! I read it every day and I find it really useful as a graphic design student myself and very inspiring, keep up the good work! on to my question:
I’m going to be spending 4ish months in Oregon on student exchange from september till december and I’m wondering what the must see’s are. As a graphic designer what can’t I miss out on seeing in Portland? What are some awesome places to go and things to do? Keeping in mind I am a 20 year old aussie girl :)
June 23rd, 2008 at 6:36 pm
I have a question! I’m a fellow graphic designer and artist, and like you, love to make collages using fashion magazines. I’ve never tried to sell any of it before because I’ve been warned that the images from the magazines are copyrighted and I could get in major trouble for selling art with them on it. Have you ever received any cease-and-desist letters about the images you use?
June 24th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Hey Nubby,
I was wondering, how did your wardrobe end up evolving into red, black and white (with the occasional green mixed in)?
July 1st, 2008 at 1:12 am
[…] some of you Wednesday night before I leave for vacation! All of the regular features including the Ask Nubby column will resume here starting next week. Thanks for […]
July 6th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
hi nubby,
i was looking through your blog & i noticed how you were always dressed in something absolutely cute and you wore it with a certain flare & confidence, i’m just wondering how i can acquire some (any) confidence to wear some bold/cute/notice-me-i’m-not-just-a-piece-of-wallpaper
ensemble.
ummm…
thanx :3
justine. : I love the way you worded your question, this is a really inspiring one!
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:42 pm
Nubby! After reorganising my house for the third time this week, i just want to know… how do you keep your living/working space(s) so organised and attractive??
August 4th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
I realize this isn’t a question, but I’d love more pictures of your house and maybe a wardrobe photo! You have such fantastic clothes, do you display them like art?
August 17th, 2008 at 8:18 am
hi!! my college is hosting our annual film festival …i wanted to know how i could make our press kits more attractive and innovative …so that we grab the media attention affectively
August 24th, 2008 at 11:00 am
I know that you have a great interest in typography. As a designer who is relatively new to the industry, I find that typography is, although interesting, a great challenge to me. There are many sites out there with tips on how to pick a typeface or combination of typefaces that fit the feel of a project, but I was wondering if you could share with me some of your own favorite typefaces and what they mean to you.
August 25th, 2008 at 2:31 am
I would like to start my own website that, like yours and so many other aspiring designers, will serve as my online portfolio and a blog. Although I had a personal website in the past, I’ve never had my own domain and I have no idea how to register a domain name, how much space or bandwidth I should buy, etc. Do you have any advice for me? What content is appropriate for such a site? What web hosting company has the best deal?
August 25th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
How do I create and distribute a monthly newsletter for my blog?
August 26th, 2008 at 7:45 am
How do you separate work from your personal design?
Also - I suck at kerning, any advice on working better with type?
August 28th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Hey Nubby,
I just have one quick question about your Dries Van Noten Wedge Shoes… I have been looking for those shoes with my size, and I can not find it anywhere… I was wondering if you could share some places or where you got yours at?
Thank You!
Julie: They’re pretty hard to find! I was lucky that my size in the gray patent version came up on Ebay. The burgundy pair is from yoox.com.
September 9th, 2008 at 4:41 am
Hi Nubby,
In a couple of months I will be going for my interview at a Graphic Design school and was wondering what kind of things I should put in my portfolio. I have been out of school for a while and have just been working in a bookstore and doing my own art (collage and mixed media stuff mostly) and comic strips. Should I try and do some design type stuff or should I just provide examples of my art?
Thanks :)
September 11th, 2008 at 12:03 am
What typeface did you use in “Ask Nubby”?
I’ve been looking for something similar…looks kinda based off of Bodoni or something, I even tried identifont but to no avail. Thanks!
Mnu: It’s Cabernet!
September 17th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Hi!
Quick random question:
I notice you wear your ZINDA shoes all the time. I am debating purchasing a pair of different ZINDA heels, but with sensitive feet and online shopping, I’m worried about comfort.
How comfortable have you found ZINDA shoes?
Thanks! xo
Hi Lauren, I can say without any sense of irony that my ZINDAs are the most comfortable heels I own and that’s part of the reason why I wear them constantly!
September 18th, 2008 at 7:14 am
Hey Nubby,
first of all i am SO very glad that I found your site and Galas,you two are HUGE inspirations to me, I was just looking at your “credentials” lol and notice that you too have an associates degree in Graphic Design, you seem so sucessful, how do you get past the “well you dont have a bachelors degree and didnt go to a houity toity art school” stigma? ( I DID go to art schooll just not he big one here in Cleveland) Because it keeps getting brought up in interviews, I have worked in design for 6 years now doing my own stuff, but never secured a job with a stable company.When employers try to downplay my education, how do I fight back on that? I mean I like to think I do great work, and have been told that by my clients, but why can’t larger companies see that? I just want to work permanatly in my field, and this Bachelors Snobbery is getting in my way. Any Advice??
Thanks for anything!
September 20th, 2008 at 9:15 am
Hey Nubbs (feels like I know you so well I’ve actually given you a nickname!),
Let’s start with how thankful I am that I found you and Gala. I’ve always wanted to write, and having a website of my own where I can churn out content based on my passions; fashion, lifestyle, personal development, the works has ALWAYS been my dream. The thing is, I don’t know where to start. I failed my Web Graphics module while doing a diploma in Mass Communication and I’m really bad at HTML, much worse in design. I’d be grateful if you could help me out. Where do I start? I’ve been trying to learn the trade for years, but 2008 is coming to a close and I still haven’t gotten anywhere. I’ve published some stores for Seventeen magazine Singapore and marketed fashion and beauty magazines freelance but I know I’m capable of more. Please, I’d be so grateful. And would it be possible to commission you to do my website design or can you recommend someone to me? I know I live on the other side of the world but I’m willing to do all it takes to realise my dreams. Oh, and I’m only just beginning to familiarise myself with LJ can you beleve it? It’ll take awhile for my network to acknowledge my online presence but I raved about your Virgo extravaganza. Everyone’s loving you girls!
September 22nd, 2008 at 4:48 pm
Hey Nubby
Firstly, I love your blog. You have amazing style!
I was wondering if you had any tips on making your own cd cover in photoshop? I need help but can’t afford my own graphic designer…
Thanks Nubby xx
September 29th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Okay THIS is where I ask the question! So cool you have this ‘ask Nubby’ feature…OK what is the lip colour you ar wearing in the pic of you with the man dressed as a bear in Vegas? Thanks
Caroline: I think I was wearing MAC ‘Honeylove’ in that picture with some lipgloss over the top!
October 5th, 2008 at 4:18 am
Hello Nubby,
Love your blogs! Just wondering, what blogging software do you use? I’m just trying to toss up between different ones and I’m not sure which one I should use. Perhaps an expert like yourself could give me some pointers. That would be much appreciated!
Kind regards, Noah.
October 5th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I love your blogs and found you through Gala Darling.
I was just curious to how you stay thin because I love fashion but I feel to unworthy of wearing nice clothes when I feel overweight.
All I have to do is think chocolate and I already know it’s too late, I’m gonna blow it.
I just don’t know how lose weight! How do models and stars stay so thin?
Thanks! Dahn
October 6th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
I just love your blog! I’m just curious as to where I can acquire a tuxedo jacket similar to the one you wore to your birthday shindig.
I was also wondering how you and Gala met?
Keep on blogging and I’ll be reading
! -Lor
October 7th, 2008 at 11:51 am
October 8th, 2008 at 4:51 am
Hi Nubby,
I am on my second year studying graphic design and have been reading your blog for a while now, thank you for all your advise and sharing your life with us. You are such an inspiration.
I was hoping to get some advise from you for my college project.
This year I’m working with a mentor and my brief from him is to
-create a typeface using materials/combinations of materials to reflect the name ‘sharp’
-produce the word ‘sharp’ and photograph the outcome.
-then extend the ‘sharp’ typeface into a number of items for the poetry club that is called ‘sharp’.
I don’t have a clue how to create a typeface and would appreciate if you had some tips to share, or even to suggest where to start…
Thank you so much!
Mai x
October 8th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Hi Nubby,
Love your site. I am in advertising and dabble in freelance design. I sometimes get a logo request, which is always fun. I’m wondering, what’s the background story on your lips & pill logo? It’s great. Thanks for sharing.
October 10th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
Hi Nubby,
I’m very interested in your thoughts on graphic design education. I really want to get into the field, but know I need to get some kind of education. My question is; I already have a Bachelor’s degree in communications; do you think I should get another Bachelor’s in graphic design, or could I should just go through a certificate program. I don’t have much experience working in the field, so I know developing a portfolio will be critical. Thanks so much for your insight! I love your blog =) Anna
October 20th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
Hi Nubby, I love your site and believe you are a great inspiration to people ^^.
I was just wondering, does the giant “A” decor in your home and on your business cards have any meaning or is it just decoration?
October 22nd, 2008 at 11:45 am
Hi Nubby!
I have a question for you. I’m relocating to a new state and different job market. Sadly, my cover letter is a little out of date, considering it was written pre-graduation (ex: I’ll soon be achieving my Graphic Design degree…). Now, I’m looking for a new Graphic Design job, not only in a failing economy, but also approaching firms cold without job leads. I’m happy with my identity and resume, just a little stumped with writing a new cover letter.
So I guess to clarify:
Do you have any tips/ examples for a writing a cover letter that doesn’t seem too stuffy and can showcase myself as an experienced designer?
Also, do you have any tips for entering into a cold job market?
Thanks so much! Laurel
October 23rd, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Hello! I love your blog.
I am trying to create a logo for my new editing business, but I have no idea about graphic design/printing etc. Is it not advisable to create a logo with many colours? If so, is it only because it is too expensive to print? Is it okay to have a logo that is colourful, but also looks okay in black and white?
Thank you!
October 24th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
Nubbs! the blog! your “what i wore” section is *so* cute - it’s had me on a black/red/white trip for days now!
the way you put outfits together has helped me rethink the combination of my existing pieces in new and different ways! (i’ve actually been tempted to send you pictures - but resisted the urge! haha! i thought “Nubbs would be proud!”)
i’ve told several of my friends about this blog - since i haven’t come across anything similar before. great concept and execution.
question: bumped into this cool shirt: http://nubbytwiglet.com/blog/2008/03/29/eff-you-mother-effer-shirt/
but it seems its been sold out since july! any idea when more will become available? thanks a mil! :x
crimson: That was a design my boyfriend came up with based on one of my favorite sayings. I don’t think he’s ever reprinted it since it sold out the first time around. Sorry!
October 25th, 2008 at 8:48 am
hello!
you probably get these kinds of comments a lot but i guess mine will just be another in the bunch.
first off i would like to say that it is such a relief, inspiration, and joy to see a girl/woman with such flair, a strong sense of design and the work to back it up. not only do you look like a living black and white movie siren, but you are contributing beauty to the world with your fine art and graphic design work. i love that you actually work for what you have and i cannot get enough of your blog. i have my own inspiration board and some of your work is on it.
now, on to my question. any portland or oregon hotspots that you think are worth checking out? any other artists or designers that people should know about?
thanks for any help and as always i’ll look forward to your future blogging.
xoxo - giovanna
October 27th, 2008 at 7:49 am
[…] Do you have a burning question? This is your chance to get answers on a variety of topics including art, design, fashion, business, style and anything else you can dream up! The question can be as simple as asking where I got a piece of clothing or what typeface I used for a project to something more in-depth about freelancing or running a business. This column is featured most Wednesdays and questions can be directed here. […]
October 28th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Hey Nubby!
I will get straight to the point. Who are the best promotional goods company/website out there? I’m building my press kit for graduation this fall and I want to have a little goody to hand out. Unfortunately, a lot of the promo companies that I find do not take an order of less than $200. I’m a student, so money is tough when they tell me they can’t just make 50 or 100 of one item. I don’t need a 1000 pens! I really liked the erasers of your art work that you used in your press kit but I’m open to other ideas. Thanks Nubby! -Denise
October 29th, 2008 at 7:33 am
[…] Thanks for tuning in! As always, if you have a question that you’d like answered, please direct it here. […]
October 29th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Hi Nubby,
How could you tell a piece is vintage and what period of time that piece belong to? I’d like to build a vintage collection myself, do you have any suggestion where I can get those knowledge? Thanks so much!
November 1st, 2008 at 6:19 am
Hej Hej Nubby,
I have been reading your amazing blog and advice for ever and ever now so that I can’t remember how I first came across it…I live in Stockholm, Sweden…pretty far from you in the states but close in internet land. You have inspired my design and illustration work tons.
anywho, I have about a smillion questions and can’t think of one haha…you answer my questions before I even know to ask.
Where do you get the fabulous wallpaperish backgrounds you use in your work such as in the calendars? Are there any free sources we should know about?
Also…How do you organize all the links you love and share?
puss o kram (XOXO)
November 3rd, 2008 at 11:24 am
Hey Nubby, first of all, great site!I was wondering if you know any websites which set briefs which you can complete in your own time so you can practise your design skills, similar to illustration friday for example? Bec
November 7th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Which are some of you favourite books?
Great site!
It’s a feed of mine and practically check it every two hours hehe
November 19th, 2008 at 9:11 am
Hey Nubby!
Now that winter is here, I’m having a hard time keeping my wardrobe versatile. My bottoms have become limited to jeans & warm leggings. What fashion advice do you have to stay warm (& stylish) during these bitter months?
November 24th, 2008 at 11:14 am
When and how did you start blogging?
December 8th, 2008 at 8:27 am
Hello! I’ve been blogging for about a year, and would like to get my blog looking a little spiffier. Could you please tell me what program you use to create your collages, such as the one you made for your wish list? Thank you so much.
Sincerely,
Jade C.