Draplin Design Co.: Pretty Much Everything Hardcover – Illustrated, May 17, 2016

In a word, fantastic. I can't remember the last time I picked up a book and was immediately inspired to create and go do something great. I've had this book in my hands for less than 24 hours and I can't wait to get working on all sorts of projects.Authentic is a buzzword and marketing term nowadays that doesn't mean anything for the most part but everything about Aaron's book, his writing, and his work screams authenticity. From his tell-it-like-it-is attitude to the gorgeous photos of relics gone by. The book is part memoir, part portfolio, part advice and all cool. In the book he recounts his journey from childhood to now through family memories, crappy jobs, road trips, art school, paid gigs, unpaid gigs and everything in between.You could get lost for hours just looking at the pages and pages of logos, collectables and print layouts. I haven't seen a collection like this anywhere, and to think it all came from one guy is mind blowing. The color is beautiful, the debossed hardback cover is fun to hold, and I can't wait to read through this over and over again to see what I've missed.I'm a designer and recently published author as well, so I know the amount of sweat, blood, and tears Aaron and others put into this. I'm blown away and challenged to be so much better. If you appreciate design or a true American story at all, you'll be richer for picking up this book.I can't wait to see volume 2.

An inspirational kick in the pants, Aaron's book shows his rise to the top and that there's hope for the rest of us — if we put in the work! His life-long attention to detail is showcased throughout the book, resulting in an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at our favorite underdog graphic designer. Aaron's transparency is refreshing and his personality comes through on every page; my favorite is the 2-page spread on his dog, Gary! If this book doesn't inspire you to create something new and to start your own thing, I'm not sure if anything else will. For many of us designers, this is what we aspire to become, so it's nice to see one of the good guys win.If you've been on the fence to purchase the book or if you've (been living under a rock?) never heard of Aaron, don't hesitate! You will love this book! I think everyone will be able to see a little piece of themselves inside.What this book is not:This is not a text book or instructional book that is going to give step-by-step instructions on how to become a graphic design legend.What this book is:The book is full of inspiration from thumbnail sketches to logo variations and DDC merch.Best of all, the book is a steal on Amazon, but in general when it comes to premium design books. This could easily be priced at double or triple the price and still be highly sought-after and one of the most demanded graphic design books in recent years.Now, go make some vectors!

Wow. I've been a fan of Draplin for awhile now (if you haven't seen one of his talks, just do a Youtube search. This guy is a master), so I knew this book would be good. I pre-ordered it the day I heard about it, and have anxiously awaited its arrival ever since. When the package came, I tore it open the second I walked in the door.All I can say is that Draplin has done it again. I feel like I got away with robbery by only paying $24 for this book. It's jam-packed full of good design, beautiful photography, and classic Draplin philosophy. I want to say that this will be proudly displayed on my shelf for decades to come, but I know that's a lie, because it'll never make it to the shelf - it's going to be on my desk, used day in and day out as a reference and a source of kick-in-the-pants inspiration.Thanks, Draplin. Keep this stuff coming.

I loved this book! It was one of the most relatable books I've read. Draplin is a great story-teller. I love LOVE that there are so many samples of work in this book. There are doodles, icons, logos, page layouts, etc. The book itself is a work of art. I sometimes (in a non-creepy way .. maybe.. ) just rub the book and flip through the pages. If you're a tactile person, this book is heaven. It's not pretentious and is actually inspiring. Love it!

Really enjoying this book. I leave it next to me work desk and will often take little breaks to leaf through it when I need some creative inspiration or a just a little work break. It's packed with design examples that stretch as far back as Draplins career which is pretty cool. I didn't really get into design until the last 5-6 years, so seeing what the design work was cooking up back in the 90's and early 2000's is interesting to see. His writing style is very raw and personal which makes the book that much more compelling. Almost has the feeling like he's sitting across the room from you telling his stories.I highly recommend this book for any creative type looking to be inspired, or simply hear how another creative made it in the design world. His commitment to his craft, getting better each day and creative amazing stuff for clients is inspiring in it's own right. It never hearts to read about someone so in love with what they do, it's infectious.