Advice for Creative Professionals: Lessons from Pros Who Made It

Every designer, art director, and illustrator starts somewhere. But what separates those who merely dabble from those whose work shapes culture?

At RoyerComm, we work with creative professionals at every stage—from recent grads launching their first zine to seasoned art directors leading national campaigns. Along the way, we’ve heard plenty of “If I could tell my younger self one thing…” stories. So we gathered some of the most powerful lessons from legendary creatives—paired with insights that can elevate your own journey, whether you’re deep in client work or dreaming up your next personal project.

1. “Make something you believe in first.” – Paula Scher

Paula Scher, legendary designer and Pentagram partner, often talks about the importance of personal conviction. Early in her career, she chased trends. But it was only when she started designing for herself—like her iconic typographic maps—that she gained the creative confidence that clients now crave.

What it means today:
Design with intent. Even in client work, look for opportunities to inject personal point-of-view. Print is an ideal place to explore this—through tactile choices like paper texture, specialty finishes, or unorthodox formats that say, this isn’t ordinary.

2. “Learn the rules. Break them intentionally.” – David Carson

The man behind Ray Gun magazine became famous for deconstructing traditional layouts and typography—but Carson’s rebellion was rooted in knowledge. He studied the grid before he shattered it.

What it means today:
Understanding production is just as vital as design. Many creatives wish they’d mastered the how of printing earlier—bleeds, color separations, die lines, folds. Working with a print partner who supports your learning curve can give you the freedom to break rules with purpose.

At RoyerComm, we welcome your experiments. Got a crazy idea? We’ll help you make it happen without it falling apart at the bindery.

3. “Stay curious. Always be making.” – Debbie Millman

As a designer, author, and host of the podcast Design Matters, Debbie Millman’s career spans disciplines. Her advice to young creatives? Don’t wait for permission. Make things. Share them. Repeat.

What it means today:
 Your next printed piece doesn’t have to be for a client. It can be a proof-of-concept, a portfolio booster, or something just for you. Need a prototype zine, artist trading cards, or a mockup of a new packaging line? That’s where we come in. Low-run test prints aren’t just doable—they’re often where the best ideas are born.

4. “Understand the business side—or partner with people who do.” – Chip Kidd

Chip Kidd, best known for designing iconic book covers (Jurassic Park, anyone?), is a master at balancing creative expression with commercial objectives. His covers don’t just look good—they sell books.

What it means today:
Creative success isn’t just about visuals. It’s about outcomes. If you’re working with brands or clients, your designs need to convert, communicate, or inspire. Learning how your design performs in the real world—especially in print—is part of the journey.

We can help you think through those decisions: How will this finish feel in someone’s hands? Will it hold up in the mail? Can we reduce cost without sacrificing impact? We’ve got answers, and more importantly, we’ve got your back.

5. “Print isn’t dead—it just needs to be thoughtful.” – Every smart creative in 2025

In a world drowning in screens, thoughtful print stands out. Texture, weight, dimension, smell—print activates the senses in a way digital never can. The creatives who’ve “made it” understand that print is not a relic; it’s a strategic choice.

What it means today:
Print should be part of your toolkit, not an afterthought. Think of it as a medium where your work can be seen without an algorithm standing in the way. And when done well, it makes people stop scrolling and start feeling.

Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?

Whether you’re refining your brand kit, launching a new series, or pitching your boldest idea yet, we’d love to be part of your creative process. RoyerComm isn’t just a printer—we’re a strategic partner who speaks your language and respects your craft.

Have a project in mind? Want to bounce around an idea?
Contact us today, we love creative collaboration.

Let’s make something worth holding onto.