Made by James: The Honest Guide to Creativity and Logo Design

by James Martin, Made by James

Design better logos and become a more successful, confident graphic designer with Made by James as your guide.

*Winner of the 2021 American Graphic Design Award for Book Design from Graphic Design USA*

UK-based graphic designer James Martin shares his wealth of experience, information, and advice with one goal in to help designers of all levels create better work and enjoy the process. James has designed hundreds of logos for a variety of top brands, and shares his unique creative process, from concept to sketches to final design. Learn how to create outstanding logos, craft and refine your creative process, build great relationships with clients, and become prolific and consistent.

Discover how James creates innovative, clever, and memorable logos with his own hands-on, step-by-step process that includes word mapping, rapid prototyping, and sketching ideas on paper. Learn how to become a visual storyteller by understanding the key factors of working with clients and making them a valued part of the process.

In addition to the important “hows” of logo design—techniques, ideas, and examples of creating logos and building brands—you will benefit from learning aspects of the business rarely how to become more disciplined, how to see failures as valuable experiences, and ways to avoid burnout.

James shows that design isn’t just about creating images; it’s about building trusting relationships with clients, finding inspiration and using it effectively, and sharing ideas and becoming part of a community.

Made by James also
  Annotated case studies that follow designs from concept to completion The advantages of a hands-on, human approach to design The value of personal and career growth, and how to enjoy the journey of improvement Effective work habits that can make you more efficient, productive, and satisfied
Learn how to harness your passion and become the designer you’ve always wanted to be.

Genres: Design, Nonfiction, Art, Business

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 2, 2021

About the author

Over the last decade, award-winning graphic designer James Martin has built a successful creative agency, Baby Giant Design Co., with his business partner, creating logos and building brand design for a varied list of clients. Those clients include music heavy hitters The Chainsmokers, Michael Ray, and Carter McLean; and brands such as Bishop Slayer Oyster Stout and Plastic Freedom. His willingness to share his creative process, offer honest advice, and engage with fans and followers on social media has earned him a reputation as a generous and wise mentor and inspiration, especially to junior designers and those just getting started in the field. James lives in Southampton, England.

Reviews

[James Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book I wish I had growing up as a designer. I have tried to fill it with as much usable knowledge as possible to help the new generation of designers find their feet in the creative world.

[Anya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm currently studying web and graphic design and this book Made by James is right down my alley. I love the casual tone and approach. James gives great tips and is allover very encouraging and positive, which I enjoyed and which motivated me to work on some more of my personal projects for my portfolio.
I can highly recommend this to any beginner or intermediate graphic designer. You'll get some great examples and a range of different approaches to try out.

Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review! I devoured this in a couple of days :) and I really want to get my hands on a hardcopy once it's been released.

[Flora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learn the art and business of logo designing from James Martin who has been designing logos for the past 15 years. I liked how he broke down step by step the process he takes in coming up with a logo, using as examples several of the actual designs he has done .

He doesn't tell you just how to deal with clients but also how to handle the mental ups and downs as an artist.

A nice little book for the aspiring logo designer.

[Alaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Honest Guide to Creativity and Logo Design" has taken me on an extraordinary journey beyond the realms of design. As a UI/UX designer, I found myself immersed in an exploration of entrepreneurship, creativity, and the importance of a solid work routine. James Martin, the genius behind the book, brilliantly uses his kitchen as a metaphor for the creative process, revealing how chaos and culinary adventures can fuel our design masterpieces. The book is packed with captivating case studies that unveil valuable insights and lessons learned. One of the key takeaways that resonated with me is the significance of cultivating meaningful relationships with clients. Every designer, regardless of their expertise, should keep this book close at hand and revisit it regularly to fuel their creative fire.

[Kalen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a creative person and professional, I found this book to be the missing link to my creative process. James provides so many valuable nuggets of wisdom, self care, and professional advice that this book could be the difference between a good creative and living a successful, fulfilled creative life. I’ve even found James’ book to be useful for all areas of my life, outside of my creative sphere. I highly >HIGHLY< recommend everyone get this book to improve their creative process, overall life, and wellbeing!

[Nette · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Martin wrote Made by James and filled it with all the information you wished you mentor or someone you look up to disclose to you. A gatekeeper he is not, James Martin believes everyone is unique in their own way, so there's no need to give mystic replies to very common questions, Martin tells it as he has experienced it and that is useful and refreshing. Even if you are not a logo designer, I recommend this book to anyone who is in any creative field and it will be helpful to any other field as well. The processes that, the doubts, the questions on how to price, how to nurture relationships with your clients, that's essential for any job type. I didn't know about Made by James, but James Martin seems like a friend that will keep it 100 with you and that's appreciated, I'm a fan!

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book - easy to follow and full of lots of useful tips and tricks for those looking to get into the industry.

It’s also nice to be able to peek inside the mind of James Martin and get to know him better.

[James Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an unbelievable book, filled with a huge amount of inspirational advice. I challenge any designer, especially young creatives, to read this and not come away with something they’ll incorporate in their own process.

James’ story is incredible, and he shares his knowledge in an engaging and fun way. An absolute must read.

[Daniel Jain · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic insight into the creative process of logo design and also how to deal with difficult clients.

A must read for any aspiring artists or creative personnel in the digital space!

[Flavia Garnica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally Love It! Not only the quality print but also all the content! It´s an awesome book but also motivational in the professional way. James it's so clear with his message that it's imposible don't understand the real point. More than amazing, everypage is a professional (and personal) life-lesson.

[Ufuk Koç · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable, understandable, and insightful!
This book fills many blanks that might have been left during a formal art education. It's very well written, with a ton of useful insights and case studies. I also found it quite inspiring. It gives you the complete 'know-how' in terms of designing a good, versatile yet simple logo and also talks about how to approach your client.
This is well worth adding to your collection. Definitely will expand your 'horizon':)

[Poptart19 (the name’s ren) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

An engaging guide on more than just logo design: design process, branding, project management, & working with clients as a freelancer. There is a lot of great info as well as encouragement in here.

[What I liked:]

•The first couple sections are part memoir, where James tells how his career developed, & then shares tips & advice on developing your own career in graphic design & building your own brand.

•Along with tips on logo design, James includes helpful advice on working with clients, project management, pricing, working on deadlines, etc.

•Several case studies are included where James shows how he designed a logo for a client, how he communicated with them, & other details of the full process. These are really helpful real-world examples.

•The layout of this book is engaging & visually appealing, as one might expect from a graphic designer.


[What I didn’t like as much:]

•I wish there was a bit more content on logotype/typeface, but that isn’t the main subject of the book.

[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]

[Sarah Roots · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose to buy this after stumbling upon MBJ's cult following on instagram, blown away by James' willingness to support other creatives. The book has more than exceeded expectation - I'm not a logo designer, not even close but this read is still super relevant having just gone full-time freelance. JAM PACKED with solid advice, vulnerability and being so dammn relatable - James Martin has written somewhat of a delightfully palatable bible for me. And I suggest you buy one for yourself!

[Lauren Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made by James is the perfect book for anyone interested in design, studying design, or looking to take the next step in becoming a full-time freelance designer. His wholesome and genuine approach is not only encouraging for aspiring designers but incredibly insightful. It's the book I wish I had when I was still a student and now something I will keep coming back to time and time again. Bravo, James - you smashed it!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

UK-based graphic designer James Martin shares his unique creative process: concept to sketches to the final design. He also gives advice on delivery times and pricing and how to deal with clients. Also explained are terms used by the design industry and also a section on logo case studies that he has designed.

Overall it's an interesting book to see this designer's work and his processes. Much of the work looks like it is completed by hand rather than using computer programs.

I received this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Tom Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading James' book and honestly, it's exceeded my already high expectations! Firstly, it's one of the most beautifully designed books I've ever seen. The content is superb - it captures James' honesty, vulnerability and willingness to help his fellow creative. Packed full with strategies, actionable tips and visuals, all presented in a digestable, engaging and easy-to-consume manner. Highly recommended and definitely a book I'll be re-reading multiple times.

[Dan Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been following MadeByJames on Instagram for a few years now and have always been drawn to his obvious talent and huge charisma.

As soon as I knew he had a book in the works I pre-ordered it.

The book arrived this week and I was absolutely blown away by it. I was expecting good things, but this has way surpassed that.

The book itself is beautifully finished with a lot of gorgeous touches. It is full to the brim of James’ vast knowledge and beautiful logo work, with a clear and thorough description of every project showcased within it. You can really get into his head and understand his process and journey, which is a lovely insight for any level creative. Personally I have been in the industry for 15+ years, but still love to see and understand how people work. I love how the book talks you through every process of running a logo design business, but in a way that is so engaging and digestible.

I would highly recommend this book to any person who either loves great design or who is looking to grow and expand their knowledge and business. The book is just oozing personality and is full of really great tips. It’s the type of thing you could consistently pick up and have a quick glance at, knowing you’ll always find another little gem in there or just sit and read it cover to cover. Love it!

[CEEG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I freaking LOVED this book. I'm a graphic designer a few years into my journey and currently navigating all the ins and outs of running my own business. James has already been a huge contributor on my creative path so needless to say this book was a must read. Not only is this book quintessentially 'James' in it's honesty, kindness and humour I found it comforting when I was having creative anxiety, inspiring when I was feeling flat and hopeful that I could develop the tools to give me a sustainable career doing what I love. It's filled with nuggets of wisdom, tactile practices you can immediately put in place to better your daily habits and insight that makes you feel like you're exactly where you are meant to be on your journey. (Oh and beautiful design of course!)

Absolutely NO ego, pretension or stuffy crap that makes you feel inadequate - just advice and guidance from a friend. I came away with a whole page of notes regarding refinements I can make to my process, business structure, daily practices, tools and most importantly - mindset. Just like an old friend I keep going back to the book to get the advice or pick me up when I need it. If you're in design - read this book.

[Shannon Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for designers and creatives!

I love how this book not only focuses on breaking down the logo design process and really gives you an insight on how the James creative process and thinking but also makes you think about other aspects in your life like creating a routine, building healthy habits and surrounding yourself with the right people. It’s definitely given me food for thought and I’m going to make changes in my life as well as continuing to grow my knowledge and skills as a designer. Coming from a marketing background and being completely new to design, him breaking down this complete process to come up with ideas and his thinking towards it will help me so much going forward into 4th year at uni, I switched from a marketing degree to digital design and have felt like a fish out of water so I’m genuinely so thankful for this book. Keep being awesome James!

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be using this for years to come. This book is an essential for designers. Its clearly written by a guy that empathises, cares and wants to help better the lives of designers in an industry that he loves. It’s nurturing and wholesome. In particular, the lessons on managing your day, and your mental health, as well as navigating life as a designer are absolutely essential and best read sooner rather then later.

James’ work is awe inspiring, and the reason I brought this book, however the rest of the content is the real star. It’s the hero I didn’t know I needed.

All in all one of the best design reads I’ve got, and I’ve got a lot.
Regardless of your level make sure you pick this up.

[Deztiny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I’ve really been digging into everything “Made by James,” including this book, his new logo legends course, any interviews I can find, as well as his social media. He is such a down to earth person who genuinely just wants to share information and insight.

This book gives plenty of tips on logo designing, as well as many secrets behind the business side of things. I especially appreciate his take on keeping things simple, the importance of sleep and play. So many successful people drill into our head how important it is to work hard, but it’s refreshing to learn from someone who acknowledges patience and understands that your passions will fall into place over time.

I highly recommend this book!

[Izzy Wootonn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an encouraging read. I feel like this guy is my buddy now. It was full of huge spreads of logos and behind-the-scenes sketches, so cool to look at! It definitely felt more pep-talk than technical, but was helpful nonetheless. I also appreciate that this book was written recently enough that James could speak into the whole "designing for the algorithm" and "make six figures in freelance by taking some rando's really expensive design course" issues, bc they definitely affect the design industry and the way young designers think about doing business. Overall, recommend!

[Konrad Parasiński · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been following James on social media for a long time and greatly admire his work. When he published his book, I knew I had to have it. This book is undoubtedly a valuable resource for beginner designers, offering numerous tips and helping to establish a proper design process in one's mind. But it's not just for novices; even more advanced designers will find it enlightening. It presents the daily challenges we face in the field and provides insight into another designer's workshop. True to its title, the book is very honest :)

[Katarina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I book! James has opened the doors to his world and creative talent with such refreshing transparency. Moving away from the traditional approach that a lot of creatives have, of keeping their cards help closely to their chest, James lays his cards and process all out on the table for other creatives to learn and grow from his journey. A must have manual for designers as well as those seeking to explore new avenues of creativity to expand their creative skill set.

[Joke Wijn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing; from front to back, I loved every page. As a Lettering Designer, I was looking for a proper book on logo design and this is it! James writes openly about his journey and his process, which makes you feel like you're part of it. He drops so many great tips and insights and the visuals are stunning! I wanted this book to go on forever and ever. So I will definitely keep it handy and go back to these pages - forever and ever. Seriously, it's so good!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a graphic designer of 20 years, I found this book to be not only beautiful on the outside but to also still have helpful takeaways even at this stage in my career. James gives valuable pointers alongside his own personal story to help designers see how it's possible to achieve great things in their life. I love the print process on the book cover and it's definitely a knock-out work of art in itself that any designer would be proud to display. Congrats on a great accomplishment James!

[Timmy Harbour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a film maker and music producer and have to say after reading this book I got so much more out of it than I initially anticipated. Thoroughly uplifting and motivational. Not just about logos, but also a hugely powerful focus on life, work ethics and ability to overcome difficult hurdles long the way. Can't recommend it enough.

[John-Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what an amazing book! This guy has poured his heart and soul into to the content of this book which really brings the authentic honest character of him to life. He has a genuine desire to help others with creative design and his thought process. A must read for anyone starting out in logo design or for seasoned veterans who need an inspirational mid-career kick up the butt!

[Annabel Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally a book that all creatives need to read. This is exactly what I’ve been looking for in terms of both informative, but human in its writing - James lays out everything in a way that makes it so easy to understand! I would recommend this book to any creative on a quest to learn more!

[Joshua J Tuinder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple yet Powerful

I love the process. As an amateur and learning g designer, it was extremely helpful to learn a new process. Being able to build on ideas and concepts and narrow down to one solid design is changing the way I think about and see graphic design. Great read.