Miniature Monuments
Typography, Book Design, Conceptual Development
Awarded Merit by the International Society of Typographic Designers, Miniature Monuments is a series of three miniature books and an accompanying publication.
Design Process
1.What’s a milestone?
2.All about stamps
3.Big & tiny prototypes
4.Specifications
What’s a milestone?
I began by mind mapping and exploring the brief’s theme of Milestones, focusing on inventions and historical subjects. I found myself drawn to the idea of merging my interest in analogue versus digital design with a nostalgic hobby of mine—postage stamp collecting. This subject matter became the foundation of my concept. I researched the cultural, historical, political, and economic significance of postage stamps and visited the Postal Museum to deepen my understanding of their evolution as communication tools. This research helped me define the direction of the project and solidify the concept for the miniature books.
All about stamps
This stage focused on gathering primary research about stamps, their history, and their role in communication. I sketched ideas and explored different design possibilities. I also reached out to the Handwritten Letter Appreciation Society to ask for quotes and insights, which helped to enrich the project’s emotional and historical context. This phase allowed me to explore the narrative behind stamps and their impact on modern design.
Big & tiny prototypes
With the concept and research in place, I began prototyping. This involved creating both large-scale and miniature mockups of the books. I experimented with new printing and binding techniques, uncovering new ways to discuss the evolution of our communication methods.
Specifications
In this final phase, I focused on perfecting the physical outcomes. I learned how to write specification sheets to ensure the design was executed with precision. I completed the final binding, printing, and crafting of the miniature books and accompanying publication, paying attention to every detail to ensure a high level of craftsmanship.
