Petshopbox Studio Blog

This time we will uncover how actually we made those vector characters. This is a short post about the process of creating vector characters.

1. Concept Sketches

After client sent the character descriptions. We did some short brainstorming about the character directions. At this point, clients usually send some image references. Those images are the main influence of the art directions.

This project was handled by Poppy Betharia, after we have little chit-chat with Art Director (Poppy Yunita). Poppy B. start sketching rough sketches. When she made some good progress we tend to comment about what’s need to be improved and which part looks wrong. With this method we make quick progress.

We give client sketches options for each pose. They will choose which pose they like.

2. Coloring it up

The choosen sketch goes into Adobe Illustrator for coloring. Our mascot design is fully vector, in organized layer. We want to make sure the vector file is easy to edit.

The coloring process took longer than sketching. Usually for a complex character it will took around 4-6 hours, almost a day of work. In this process Art Director also gives constructed feedback to the color and shapes.

Vector files can be zoomed in to several hundreds times. Attention to details is a mandatory. But, we tried to avoid over detailed illustration, since the style is cartoony. It will be different situation if client wants something hyper realistic.

We think the detail level is sufficient for Bunny DJ turntable.

3. Finalizing

After approved by Art Director, we send the preview image. On this stage clients usually ask for minor changes. Client cannot request major changes, like changing the entire pose. Because the pose approved on the sketch. If client want major changes, we will ask for additional cost.

After the changes applied, we send the preview back to client. Usually the color version back an forth around 2–5 times.

And, here’s the final version.

Those are all the 3 main steps in creating vector character or mascot.