Before starting a design project, we usually look for various reference ideas. So, to translate these ideas into a mature design concept, a moodboard is needed. Moodboard is a medium that serves as a design reference consisting of visual elements, text, color choices, and so on. The moodboard will be our guide in creating a work.
Currently there are two types of moodboards that can be made, namely digital and physical. For digital moodboards , you can create them directly on various platforms, such as Milanote, Pinterest, SampleBoard, Canva, and Moodboard Lite. Meanwhile, for a physical moodboard , you need to prepare various materials, for example boards, paper, pictures, and so on. This might be a little more complicated but on the one hand it might also make it easier for you.
Next, are you ready to make a moodboard ? If so, there are several tips that you need to pay attention to and apply. The goal is to help you create a moodboard that can truly support the continuity of the design you create.
Determine the theme of the design you will create
The first step, you need to determine the theme of the design you will create. These themes are, for example, casual, futuristic, natural, modern, minimalist, vintage, and so on. By determining the theme correctly, it will make you more focused in looking for references. Your design process becomes more effective and efficient because you already know what needs to be done.
Look for Design References
If you have a specific theme, it's time to look for the right design reference. You can find design references via the sites Pinterest, Freepik, Canva, DeviantArt, Behance, Dribbble, and many more. With these references, you will know the latest developments in various types of designs. Apart from that, you can also find new perspectives that you might be able to develop.
Add Visual Elements
Next, you can start looking for references for visual elements, starting from images, fonts, color palettes, and others. For these elements, look for references that match the theme you have determined. Especially for images, they must also be related to each other so that it will be easy for you to conceptualize them.
Collect the Concept of Wording ( Wording )
In a design, it will generally be supported by text that contains certain information. The text can be in the form of a motto or jargon, vision and mission, brand values, campaigns , or also notes that can be a source of inspiration. Create a short but clear wording concept so that it can keep your design focused.
Enter Color and Font Type
Incorporating a color palette and font type is something you shouldn't miss when creating a moodboard for design. To create a palette, you can explore it via Adobe Color. There are various color choices and codes available. In fact, you can enter reference images that you already have into Adobe Color and a color palette will appear that you can use straight away.
Meanwhile, for the type of font that will be used, you can download it on several sites for free, such as dafont, 1001 Fonts, Font Bundles, fontspace, fontfabric, Urban Fonts, BEfonts, and so on. You can choose more than one type of font to apply to your design. This way, you can choose the right formulation from your various choices.
Set Moodboard Composition
Lastly, don't forget to arrange the composition of the elements in the moodboard. Try to place related elements close together, for example font types with wording and palettes with images. Don't forget to vary the size of each element to indicate the priority scale in your design.
These are some tips that you can apply when creating a moodboard for design. After you have finished compiling it, you can also ask for opinions from your colleagues or clients, whether the moodboard you created is appropriate or if there are any suggestions for improvement. If you have suggestions, immediately make changes to produce a good moodboard for your design process.