How It Works: From Brief to Bottled Product

Clear process. Zero surprises.

Working remotely doesn't mean working blindly.

Every project follows a structured custom brewery packaging workflow designed to give you control at every stage—from initial concept to print-ready files. One week timeline for a complete craft beer label design process.

Strategic Briefing + AI-Enhanced Research

Email-first communication keeps everything documented and clear. I analyze your brief, research your market positioning, and build a curated moodboard that translates your vision into visual language.

Unlike traditional designers, I leverage AI-enhanced design research tools for rapid visual exploration and reference gathering—but the creative decisions and artistic execution are 100% human. This hybrid approach means faster ideation without compromising on originality.

Deliverable: Detailed moodboard + creative direction proposal.
Timeline: 1-2 days.

Hand-Drawn Concept Sketch (The Decision Gate)

This is where you see the design before I invest hours in final execution. Using my Wacom Cintiq Pro, I create a detailed hand-drawn beer label illustration that defines composition, style, and all key visual elements. This isn't a rough thumbnail—it's a blueprint.

At this stage, you approve the direction or request adjustments. Major revisions happen here, not after the final art is done. This saves time, avoids miscommunication, and ensures you're confident in the result.

Deliverable: High-fidelity sketch with annotations.
Timeline: 2-3 days after moodboard approval.
Revisions: Included at this stage.

Final Artwork: Hand-Drawn Vector Production

Once the sketch is approved, I move into the core creative phase. This is where the final artwork is drawn by hand directly in vector, using a tablet and a precise, intentional approach to line, balance, and composition.

I work in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, depending on the project, combining manual drawing and technical control to shape the finished label. The concept is already defined, but the artwork gains structure, consistency, and production clarity—without losing its handmade character.

Deliverable: Print-ready label files (AI/PDF) or layered PSD.
Timeline: 3–4 days after sketch approval (may vary based on project complexity).
File formats: Customized to your printer’s specifications.

3D Mockup Presentation + Payment on Approval

Before you pay, you see the result. I present the final design through high-fidelity 3D mockups that show exactly how your label will look on the shelf.

Payment is requested only after you've reviewed the preview and are confident in the outcome. This builds trust—especially for first-time clients. For ongoing partnerships, we can adjust this workflow.

Deliverable: 3D mockups + final source files.
Payment terms: After preview approval.