Jason Dahl and Paul Lopez, Jr. are the graphic designers at All In Stitches in Geneseo. The two work with various mediums to achieve the desired results.
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Drawing, designing and sometimes even doodling leads to the creative artwork accomplished by Jason Dahl and Paul Lopez at All In Stitches and Underground Graphics, Geneseo.
The two young men are graphic designers at the store, a one-stop design shop serving Geneseo and the surrounding area.
Sixteen years ago, Jan Dahl, Jason’s mother, bought an existing embroidery business and reopened it as All In Stitches. Mrs. Dahl said she bought the business to provide a service locally because “no one else in town was doing this.”
Her son, Jason, created Underground Graphics as an addition to the business.
The two businesses, All In Stitches and Underground Graphics, operate under the same roof for the same purpose — to work with small-business owners looking to brand and market themselves.
Mr. Dahl and fellow graphic designer Paul Lopez together have approximately 24 years of design experience.
From creating a logo to incorporating it in business apparel, vehicle wraps, vinyl signs and business cards — they can do it all.
Many of their clients begin by seeking a logo design, and then also use the many other services offered at the business.
Members of clubs and sports teams often ask the advice of Mrs. Dahl, her son and Mr. Lopez in creating an image for themselves.
“Our motto is, “Have an idea; let us help you create it,” Mr. Dahl said.
The shop offers a wide selection of Geneseo apparel for Geneseo sports fans and recently, Mrs. Dahl created the “Letterman Pennant,” an alternative to the traditional letterman’s jacket.
School designs for area athletes and musicians are available at the store.
“We also create custom apparel designs for local schools, organizations and individuals as well,” Mr. Lopez said.
“Through our work, we help businesses and individuals look professional when promoting themselves,” Mr. Dahl said.
Mr. Lopez said art has always been important to him. Drawing was a hobby in his youth, and he majored in fine arts at Black Hawk College.
“Creativity and hands-on work play a big role in the jobs Jason and I do, but education also is very important,” he said. “Enrolling in as many art classes in high school and college as possible was the best thing I could to do to help me get where I am today.”
Mr. Dahl said he, too, has always liked art and drawing, “so it was just natural to do something similar. Some classes I took at Black Hawk College helped me to decide that it was something I liked doing.”
He said computer design skills are a must in becoming a graphic designer. “Any classes in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop would be helpful. Many colleges call their graphic design programs something a little different.”
Mr. Dahl earned a degree in graphic communications in 2002 from the former Marycrest International University in Davenport.
“There also is a lot of on-the-job training that takes place,” he said.
Recognition isn’t important to either of the graphic designers. “Satisfaction comes from seeing the successes of the business we’ve had the pleasure to work with,” Mr. Lopez said. “Whether it’s seeing their vehicle wrap on the road or driving by their sign we designed and installed, showing they are open for business, it’s all satisfying.”
Mr. Dahl said, “I am not one who likes recognition, but I do find my job satisfying. The best part is seeing your work on a vehicle going around town, or even in a city farther away. I know that what we did makes a difference to the business owner.”
The designers also are happy to see customers return again and again to order custom T-shirts for annual events or school sports teams. “It’s always satisfying to know we are doing a good job for people to want to come back to us,” Mr. Lopez said.
When asked if he would change anything about his job, Mr. Lopez said, “Only if there was some way to let people know all of the services we offer.”
Mr. Dahl said, “I’m someone who likes being outside. Much of our time is spent inside on the computer, putting designs together or preparing vinyl. In the warmer months, we are able to do vinyl installs outdoors, so that does help break it up some.”
Original Content: By Claudia Loucks, cjloucks@qconline.com
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