THE DRAFT MODE
THE DRAFT MODE
by Emma Rodriguez
Why I’ll Be Quiet Quitting Graphic Design, Potentially.
Not burning it all down, just loosening my grip. Letting it be what it is, while I build something alongside it that feels steadier. Something that might carry me forward in a different way
Why You Shouldn’t Put All Your Social Media Eggs in Instagram’s Basket (Especially in 2025)
The point is not letting one single app control your creative visibility, income or peace of mind. Let Instagram be one tool, not your whole toolbox.
Why Asking a Client for Their Budget Is Perfectly Reasonable
Asking for a budget is not awkward. It’s just part of doing business properly. It sets the tone for a respectful, honest working relationship.
Mockups Aren’t Just Pretty: Why Presentation Matters More Than You Think
Mockups are not just there to make things look nice. They shape how people perceive your work, how confident you feel about it, and even whether a client or customer decides to hit buy.
Giving Your Etsy Shop a Boost in 2025: What is Working For Me So Far
If your shop has been struggling, give some of these strategies a try and see if they make a difference. You never know what small change might be the one that turns things around.
My Favourite Design Tools and Why I Use Them Over some of the Alternatives
There is no single best design tool, just the right ones for how you like to work.
The Hidden Costs of Running a Digital Product Business
Selling digital products can be profitable, but it is not a get-rich-quick scheme.
How to Romanticise Your Life (Without Falling Into a Social Media Trap)
Romanticising your life isn’t about making it look perfect, it’s about feeling good in the little moments, even when your hair is a mess and you’re eating cereal for dinner.
The Secret Sauce to E-Commerce Success – a breakdown to make Google & Socials Work for You
Setting up the tech side of your shop might seem overwhelming but once you get the basics in place everything runs smoother.
10 Truths About Selling Digital Products on Etsy, and Why its Not as Passive as You Think
If you go in with realistic expectations. It can be a fantastic way to make money, but it is not effortless
Collage in Design: 5 Ways to Make Your Graphics Pop
Collage gives you endless room to experiment and push boundaries. So grab those scissors, or your favourite design software, start playing around
Why Instagram Is Failing Artists, and what we can do about it.
Let’s be real. Instagram is not worth the headache anymore. Chasing the algorithm, begging for engagement, and watching your posts disappear into the void? No thanks.
Day-to-Day Essentials Every Graphic Designer Needs to Survive (and Thrive!)
…what about the little things? The small, everyday essentials that keep us sane, inspired, and caffeinated while we push pixels and battle client feedback?
Client Red Flags Every Designer Should Watch Out For AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM
The best way to avoid nightmare clients is to trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Red flags exist for a reason, and it’s okay to walk away from a bad deal.
5 Common Mistakes New Designers Make with client work (and How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)
Look, nobody starts out as a design genius who has it all figured out. We’ve all made at least one (or, let’s be real, all) of these mistakes.
The Harsh Truth About Getting a Graphic Design Job in 2025
The company has decided to trim down its artist community, keeping only a handpicked selection of creators moving forward. Did you make the cut?
Society6’s Big Shake Up: What It Means for Artists
The company has decided to trim down its artist community, keeping only a handpicked selection of creators moving forward. Did you make the cut?
Why Bold, Fun, and realistic Mockups Are a Game Changer for Artists and Graphic Designers
Vibrant, fun, and realistic mockups bring energy to your work, make your designs look professional, and help them stand out in a crowded field