From Sketch to Print: How an Illustration Comes to Life

Every print tells a story — not just of the place it captures, but also of the creative journey it takes to get from a simple idea to a piece of art hanging on your wall. Here’s a peek behind the scenes at how Louise’s illustrations go from sketchbook to finished print.

Inspiration Strikes

For Louise, many designs begin outdoors — often while walking with her two chaotic Border Terriers in tow, or riding her horse through the countryside. A view from the top of Leith Hill, Surrey, a peaceful corner at the Devil’s Punch Bowl, or the sunlight catching the cliffs looking down at Old Harry’s Rock can spark an idea. These moments are captured in quick pencil sketches or reference photos that later evolve into a finished illustration.

The Illustration Process

Back in the studio, those rough notes are refined. Louise carefully selects colour palettes to balance vibrancy with timelessness — so a St Martha’s Hill, Surrey print, for instance, feels just as fresh today as it will in ten years’ time.

She works with a mix of traditional sketching and painting, alongside modern digital tools. Pencil and watercolour studies often form the base, bringing a natural flow and spontaneity to each design. From there, Louise uses a Wacom drawing tablet, her computer, and iPad to fine-tune details, layer colour, and adjust composition while keeping that hand-drawn character alive. Each illustration always begins with the spark of being in the place itself, then evolves into a polished artwork ready for print.

Preparing for Print

Once an illustration feels complete, Louise prepares it for print. Each artwork is produced on 250gsm Silk paper, chosen for its smooth finish and ability to hold rich, detailed colour. Large unframed prints are rolled for safe delivery — Louise recommends letting them unfurl naturally before framing to avoid creasing.

The Final Touches

Framing is the final gesture — the moment an illustration transforms from paper into a presence in your home. Whether you choose a classic black frame for contrast, or a crisp white frame for a softer, more contemporary feel, the finish is designed to complement the artwork without overwhelming it.

Whether it’s the Shere village print framed in wood or an unframed London park ready for your own choice of mount, each print is a memory of landscapes walked, horizons admired, and journeys remembered.