Midjourney has rolled out the upload and editing feature for your own images. Now you can play endlessly. Enjoy.
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KnowHowToDesign
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KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
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I’d like to remind you that you can set a custom default style for new objects in #ai. When you reset the style (D), the newly created sample from Graphic Styles will be applied as well.
Create an object with a new appearance, save it in the Graphic Styles palette, and then, while holding Alt, drag it onto the first sample with a white fill and black outline. This will redefine the default style for the current document. To have this style in all documents, save the file as the starting template.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Create an object with a new appearance, save it in the Graphic Styles palette, and then, while holding Alt, drag it onto the first sample with a white fill and black outline. This will redefine the default style for the current document. To have this style in all documents, save the file as the starting template.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
In wayfinding, there’s a common misconception that signs need to be placed every N meters, or that the more signs there are, the easier it is to navigate.
In reality, a high density of signs often signals a complex environment with many scenarios, which can make people feel more anxious and uncertain. In airports, the abundance of counters, gate numbers, and signs suggests a high level of activity (check-in, baggage, documents, security checks, registrations, information assistance). So, a passenger with other goals may seek a quieter space.
The number of signs should increase where there’s a lot happening. This is the main principle to follow when placing signs.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
In reality, a high density of signs often signals a complex environment with many scenarios, which can make people feel more anxious and uncertain. In airports, the abundance of counters, gate numbers, and signs suggests a high level of activity (check-in, baggage, documents, security checks, registrations, information assistance). So, a passenger with other goals may seek a quieter space.
The number of signs should increase where there’s a lot happening. This is the main principle to follow when placing signs.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Decision Points and Choice Points in wayfinding, and why they shouldn’t be confused
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Decision-Points-and-Choice-Points-137a2d4e7d028053bbe0e93ee25fb227?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Decision-Points-and-Choice-Points-137a2d4e7d028053bbe0e93ee25fb227?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
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Swatches Info #AI
Illustrator now has a long-awaited feature that lays out color swatches selected in the palette.
1. Hold Shift and click multiple swatches. Go to the palette options—Swatches Info.
2. Adjust the layout and choose the desired color models.
3. The created layout can be edited by clicking Card Info in the top left corner.
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KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Illustrator now has a long-awaited feature that lays out color swatches selected in the palette.
1. Hold Shift and click multiple swatches. Go to the palette options—Swatches Info.
2. Adjust the layout and choose the desired color models.
3. The created layout can be edited by clicking Card Info in the top left corner.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
A lesson with these cars (ENG subtitles). #oblique
https://youtu.be/ba3IYR1fuhI
Tutorial file
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/dwg7i3m7sfz9hcarm4a12/oblique-car.ai.zip?rlkey=272e3kw8ki9i1d9lj8fsxlyr4&st=2uiv8gea&dl=0
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
https://youtu.be/ba3IYR1fuhI
Tutorial file
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/dwg7i3m7sfz9hcarm4a12/oblique-car.ai.zip?rlkey=272e3kw8ki9i1d9lj8fsxlyr4&st=2uiv8gea&dl=0
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
In the Netherlands, you can often spot tiles featuring a ladybug or coccinellid design. This symbol belongs to the National Association Against Violence and is placed in areas with heightened social tension. Its purpose is to serve as a final reminder to deter someone from committing a crime when they come across this symbol. It’s a tool that taps into the mechanisms of superstition.
I once saw three tiles placed side by side. It seems they were shouting with triple the force for someone to stop and think.
https://zinloosgeweld.nl
By the way, you can buy a tile with the ladybug design for 200 euros.
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KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
I once saw three tiles placed side by side. It seems they were shouting with triple the force for someone to stop and think.
https://zinloosgeweld.nl
By the way, you can buy a tile with the ladybug design for 200 euros.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
During a Presentation: How to Keep Everyone in Check and Stay Calm
Recently, I came across a video where a designer was presenting a project, and the participants bombarded them with minor questions and interruptions. It reminded me that I’ve long wanted to write a post with some rules for handling such situations.
Before Starting
1. Set the Ground Rules.
Clearly state upfront: all questions should either be written down or kept in mind. They can only be asked after the presentation. If someone tries to interrupt, calmly remind them: “We’ll discuss this later.”
2. Two Strikes, Then Reset.
After the third blatant interruption, stop the presentation and reiterate the rules. Disrespecting the group’s time is, to put it mildly, inappropriate. Don’t hesitate to rein in overly active participants.
3. No Spoilers.
The presentation document should only be shown when you’re ready to walk through each slide. Otherwise, people will form opinions while you’re stuck on the first point.
Rules for Participants
1. Interruptions are Allowed Only in Two Cases:
• The presenter made a glaring error and didn’t notice.
• A meteor is about to hit you.
2.Patience.
If something isn’t clear, give the presenter a chance to explain it later. If they skip an important point, politely ask them to go back — without initiating a discussion.
3. Don’t Disrupt the Narrative.
The presenter has a plan and a flow. Comments like, “I don’t like this shade of green,” aren’t helpful; they’re just destructive.
4. If It Was Skipped, It Was Intentional.
If the presenter doesn’t emphasize something, it’s because they decided it’s not a priority at the moment.
5. Save the Buttons and Corners for Tomorrow.
Technical details can be sent as a separate document or email the next day.
6. What You Dislike Today, You Might Love Tomorrow.
If something doesn’t sit well with you, take a deep breath and revisit it the next day.
7. No Snide Remarks.
Eye-rolling, sarcastic comments, dismissive tones — these behaviors belong in a schoolyard, not a professional discussion.
8. Don’t Overwhelm the Presenter.
Maybe they’re not a master of presentations yet, but that’s fixable. After a few events like this, they’ll be juggling facts and captivating the audience from the first words.
9. No Nitpicking.
Under no circumstances should you correct the presenter on using “you’re” means “you are” or other trivialities.
Interrupting a presentation at every slide is like dissecting a book page by page. I remember a time when I misnamed a mechanical part throughout an entire presentation. The company director didn’t interrupt even once, and only corrected me at the end. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to double-check all terms before presenting.
In my next post, I’ll talk about how to present effectively.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Recently, I came across a video where a designer was presenting a project, and the participants bombarded them with minor questions and interruptions. It reminded me that I’ve long wanted to write a post with some rules for handling such situations.
Before Starting
1. Set the Ground Rules.
Clearly state upfront: all questions should either be written down or kept in mind. They can only be asked after the presentation. If someone tries to interrupt, calmly remind them: “We’ll discuss this later.”
2. Two Strikes, Then Reset.
After the third blatant interruption, stop the presentation and reiterate the rules. Disrespecting the group’s time is, to put it mildly, inappropriate. Don’t hesitate to rein in overly active participants.
3. No Spoilers.
The presentation document should only be shown when you’re ready to walk through each slide. Otherwise, people will form opinions while you’re stuck on the first point.
Rules for Participants
1. Interruptions are Allowed Only in Two Cases:
• The presenter made a glaring error and didn’t notice.
• A meteor is about to hit you.
2.Patience.
If something isn’t clear, give the presenter a chance to explain it later. If they skip an important point, politely ask them to go back — without initiating a discussion.
3. Don’t Disrupt the Narrative.
The presenter has a plan and a flow. Comments like, “I don’t like this shade of green,” aren’t helpful; they’re just destructive.
4. If It Was Skipped, It Was Intentional.
If the presenter doesn’t emphasize something, it’s because they decided it’s not a priority at the moment.
5. Save the Buttons and Corners for Tomorrow.
Technical details can be sent as a separate document or email the next day.
6. What You Dislike Today, You Might Love Tomorrow.
If something doesn’t sit well with you, take a deep breath and revisit it the next day.
7. No Snide Remarks.
Eye-rolling, sarcastic comments, dismissive tones — these behaviors belong in a schoolyard, not a professional discussion.
8. Don’t Overwhelm the Presenter.
Maybe they’re not a master of presentations yet, but that’s fixable. After a few events like this, they’ll be juggling facts and captivating the audience from the first words.
9. No Nitpicking.
Under no circumstances should you correct the presenter on using “you’re” means “you are” or other trivialities.
Interrupting a presentation at every slide is like dissecting a book page by page. I remember a time when I misnamed a mechanical part throughout an entire presentation. The company director didn’t interrupt even once, and only corrected me at the end. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to double-check all terms before presenting.
In my next post, I’ll talk about how to present effectively.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
I’m putting together a collection of intuitive navigation and infographics.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Principles and Context
In the early stages, it makes sense to study the rules, follow them, and try to understand how they work. As a designer matures, they need to learn how to bend the rules, break them, or come up with improved versions. Beyond that lies a world of principles and context, where rules become less important.
For example, I know the rules of the Russian language and try to write correctly. But if I want to design a punk flyer with a rebellious spirit, then I need those rules precisely so I can break them. This applies to layout, color, grammar, spelling, and whatever else is in play.
It’s not enough to just break the rules. You have to break them beautifully, in a way that maintains consistency and sparks the viewer’s curiosity. A set of random mistakes isn’t interesting to look at.
Context defines the tools: what if I want to write with irony or sarcasm, huh? For example, I always write properly and keep an eye on sentence length so the reader doesn’t feel like they’re deciphering graffiti on a wall. But on a wall, bad spelling might be exactly what’s needed.
Whenever I see messiness or distortion, I pause for a few seconds—just in case it was done on purpose.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
In the early stages, it makes sense to study the rules, follow them, and try to understand how they work. As a designer matures, they need to learn how to bend the rules, break them, or come up with improved versions. Beyond that lies a world of principles and context, where rules become less important.
For example, I know the rules of the Russian language and try to write correctly. But if I want to design a punk flyer with a rebellious spirit, then I need those rules precisely so I can break them. This applies to layout, color, grammar, spelling, and whatever else is in play.
It’s not enough to just break the rules. You have to break them beautifully, in a way that maintains consistency and sparks the viewer’s curiosity. A set of random mistakes isn’t interesting to look at.
Context defines the tools: what if I want to write with irony or sarcasm, huh? For example, I always write properly and keep an eye on sentence length so the reader doesn’t feel like they’re deciphering graffiti on a wall. But on a wall, bad spelling might be exactly what’s needed.
Whenever I see messiness or distortion, I pause for a few seconds—just in case it was done on purpose.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Repeating elements
When a repeating element appears, it should be placed above the category. For example, in this case, the pictograms and striped backgrounds are so excessive that removing them physically creates more breathing space.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
When a repeating element appears, it should be placed above the category. For example, in this case, the pictograms and striped backgrounds are so excessive that removing them physically creates more breathing space.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Conceptual thinking
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Conceptual-thinking-1b9a2d4e7d0280acb144c71943a90407?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Conceptual-thinking-1b9a2d4e7d0280acb144c71943a90407?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
steblina on Notion
Conceptual thinking | Notion
This list will help designers working in identity design create a strong and solid project. However, it will also be useful for other designers—just replace the examples with your own.
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The Guideline is Dead. Long Live the Guideline!
This is a topic I’ve been thinking about and working on for a long time. I decided to condense my thoughts into a short note, though there’s plenty to discuss—guidelines are a thing of the past.
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/The-Guideline-is-Dead-Long-Live-the-Guideline-1baa2d4e7d028075b662f43116ed0809?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
This is a topic I’ve been thinking about and working on for a long time. I decided to condense my thoughts into a short note, though there’s plenty to discuss—guidelines are a thing of the past.
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/The-Guideline-is-Dead-Long-Live-the-Guideline-1baa2d4e7d028075b662f43116ed0809?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Simple Design Exercises
My primary source of decisions and ideas is the surrounding environment and my reactions to it. When I go for a walk, I usually engage in cognitive exercises. For example, I look for complex textures with an Eastern motif, everything that is blue, or objects that resemble the sound “ef.”
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Simple-Design-Exercises-1c0a2d4e7d0280d5b2d8cc6958ad03c3?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
My primary source of decisions and ideas is the surrounding environment and my reactions to it. When I go for a walk, I usually engage in cognitive exercises. For example, I look for complex textures with an Eastern motif, everything that is blue, or objects that resemble the sound “ef.”
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Simple-Design-Exercises-1c0a2d4e7d0280d5b2d8cc6958ad03c3?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
steblina on Notion
Simple Design Exercises | Notion
My primary source of decisions and ideas is the surrounding environment and my reactions to it. When I go for a walk, I usually engage in cognitive exercises. For example, I look for complex textures with an Eastern motif, everything that is blue, or objects…
I love examining other designers’ wayfinding systems. Mistakes of varying degrees of obviousness often come up. Here are a few examples:
01. Right now, this sign could be mistaken for almost anything from a distance—information, a schedule, or an event list. The stencil effect looks great in photos but barely works in reality. Instead, it would be better to clearly indicate the floor number, move “You are here” closer to it, and subtly highlight the current floor for added clarity. This way, the sign is no longer confused with other types of information, is visible from a greater distance and angle, and the third-floor lighting makes it unmistakable. I’d also space out the floor list a bit more.
02. This isn’t exactly a mistake, but repeating the information on this empty section would be useful for people viewing the sign from the other side. If it’s just a mounting bracket, it could safely be made shorter.
03. The sign is barely visible due to the viewing angle and the column. This often happens when the designer hasn’t visited the site to test placements. The sign sits almost its own width away from the corner, which further blocks it. It should either be placed directly on the corner or extended for better visibility.
04. This is more of a case of carelessness. It’s better to mount signs flush with architectural or cladding elements to reduce visual clutter.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/studio-semaphore_continuing-our-work-with-utas-andwardle-ugcPost-7312240049658437632-CUJK/
——
KnowHowToDesign
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https://linktr.ee/steblina
01. Right now, this sign could be mistaken for almost anything from a distance—information, a schedule, or an event list. The stencil effect looks great in photos but barely works in reality. Instead, it would be better to clearly indicate the floor number, move “You are here” closer to it, and subtly highlight the current floor for added clarity. This way, the sign is no longer confused with other types of information, is visible from a greater distance and angle, and the third-floor lighting makes it unmistakable. I’d also space out the floor list a bit more.
02. This isn’t exactly a mistake, but repeating the information on this empty section would be useful for people viewing the sign from the other side. If it’s just a mounting bracket, it could safely be made shorter.
03. The sign is barely visible due to the viewing angle and the column. This often happens when the designer hasn’t visited the site to test placements. The sign sits almost its own width away from the corner, which further blocks it. It should either be placed directly on the corner or extended for better visibility.
04. This is more of a case of carelessness. It’s better to mount signs flush with architectural or cladding elements to reduce visual clutter.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/studio-semaphore_continuing-our-work-with-utas-andwardle-ugcPost-7312240049658437632-CUJK/
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Tidying up the list in the wayfinding system at Amsterdam Central Station
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Tidying-up-the-list-in-the-wayfinding-system-at-Amsterdam-Central-Station-1cea2d4e7d028040a797eb6ca48d720a?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
https://knowhowtodesign.notion.site/Tidying-up-the-list-in-the-wayfinding-system-at-Amsterdam-Central-Station-1cea2d4e7d028040a797eb6ca48d720a?pvs=4
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Hit Pause
Taking extended breaks from work is important. Not a holiday, but proper professional pauses — switching from branding to video, from industrial design to type, or whatever it is you usually do.
Back when I was deeply into music, daily practice started to wear me out. I was getting tired, and my technique was slipping — I played worse than I had just a week earlier. Eventually, I just paused. Didn’t touch the instrument for two whole months. And when I came back, I played way better than before.
Design works the same way. Sometimes you just need to stop. Step away from the routine and stop doing the usual stuff for a while. When you return, your head feels clearer, and your brain works faster and more flexibly.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Taking extended breaks from work is important. Not a holiday, but proper professional pauses — switching from branding to video, from industrial design to type, or whatever it is you usually do.
Back when I was deeply into music, daily practice started to wear me out. I was getting tired, and my technique was slipping — I played worse than I had just a week earlier. Eventually, I just paused. Didn’t touch the instrument for two whole months. And when I came back, I played way better than before.
Design works the same way. Sometimes you just need to stop. Step away from the routine and stop doing the usual stuff for a while. When you return, your head feels clearer, and your brain works faster and more flexibly.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
Eye Level
A wayfinding totem has both readable and “blind” zones. In a standard scenario, average-height individuals and wheelchair users are taken into account. This gives us a general idea of the effective zones. The image doesn’t show the field of view yet, but that’s a topic for another time.
Of course, not all user groups will be fully satisfied, but ideally, 70–80% of people should be able to use your totem effectively.
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/metric-data-01-average-dimensions-of-person-standing/
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/metric-data-03-average-dimensions-of-wheelchair-user/
Adjustments may be needed depending on several factors:
– whether the totem is indoors or outdoors;
– the general eyesight of the audience (for example, a totem in an eye clinic might need a different approach);
– accessibility (how close users can get);
– traffic and congestion around the totem;
– how the material responds to lighting;
– typography and font size.
Also keep in mind that average human height varies from country to country.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina
A wayfinding totem has both readable and “blind” zones. In a standard scenario, average-height individuals and wheelchair users are taken into account. This gives us a general idea of the effective zones. The image doesn’t show the field of view yet, but that’s a topic for another time.
Of course, not all user groups will be fully satisfied, but ideally, 70–80% of people should be able to use your totem effectively.
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/metric-data-01-average-dimensions-of-person-standing/
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/metric-data-03-average-dimensions-of-wheelchair-user/
Adjustments may be needed depending on several factors:
– whether the totem is indoors or outdoors;
– the general eyesight of the audience (for example, a totem in an eye clinic might need a different approach);
– accessibility (how close users can get);
– traffic and congestion around the totem;
– how the material responds to lighting;
– typography and font size.
Also keep in mind that average human height varies from country to country.
——
KnowHowToDesign
https://www.youtube.com/@steblina
https://linktr.ee/steblina