Sam Dawson – Designer

At becker&mayer! I create original books, unique craft kits, and other book-related products. Some key aspects to my role include, but aren’t limited to:
• Conceptualizing new ideas based on trending entertainment licenses, pop culture phenomena, and DIY culture. In my time at B&M I’ve personally developed and designed several titles that started as my idea then finished as a book or craft kit.
• Work with other team members in editorial, product development, and logistics to maximize every penny spent, whether it’s on a unique cover treatment, or developing a doodad to pair with the book or kit.
• Design in a fast-pace environment for an array of age groups ranging from 6+ to adult.
• Work with licenses such as Disney, Lucas Film, WB, Marvel, and WWE developing new and innovative books and kits. On occasion this means taking a rough idea that originates from the client, and molding that into an fully realized title that exceeds their expectations and delights the fanbase.
• Art directing freelance designers and illustrators daily to realize the vision for any given title. Critique their work and provide constructive feedback where necessary.
• Schedule internal design reviews with all necessary personnel. Interpret designs so that every stakeholder is on the same page and understands design direction.
• Manage art budget for all my titles and maintain art log outlining each specific piece, their dollar amount, and the artists’ timeline.
• Create printer-ready files that can be easily processed and ripped. Especially important given the majority of our printers are located in non-english speaking countries.
• I Work with logistics and production personnel to review every stage of a product: blue lines, wet proofs, and printer samples. Acute attention to detail is needed to monitor and course correct before the final product ships FOB.

• Designed posters, logos, banners, and other miscellany for Seattle Weekly sponsored events.
• Also acted as illustrator for any Weekly event or marketing needs. Primarily working in Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Created ads for Seattle Weekly advertising partners that ranged from restaurants to rock venues. Sometimes this meant translating and filtering direction from the client, then honing their idea into something that’s both attractive and satisfies the client’s needs.