We recently connected with Sean Weal and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Sean thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

How did you learn to do what you do?

I’ve always been a creative person. Growing up, I was constantly drawing and doodling in my notebooks. In high school, I took my first graphic design course as a junior and instantly fell in love with it. By senior year, I had already shown noticeable growth and knew it was something I wanted to pursue further.

Originally, I went to college on a football scholarship and chose Digital Communications with a design concentration—mainly because it sounded like an easy major. But everything changed after I tore my ACL during my first football practice. After surgery and months of recovery, I came back too soon and tore the other ACL. That back-to-back injury not only ended my football dreams, but it also forced me to reevaluate my direction. I doubled down on design.

In college, I started with websites and mobile apps. My professors didn’t necessarily teach me how to design, but they gave me a strong foundation in design theory. After graduating, jobs were hard to come by, but I knew local artists and entrepreneurs who needed CD covers, flyers, business cards, and logos—so I started freelancing. Over time, I gravitated toward logos. They were challenging, clean, and carried more meaning than any other medium I worked with.

My learning process was hands-on and unconventional. I already knew Photoshop and Illustrator, but I wasn’t great at them yet. So I started by drawing. I figured if I couldn’t design it digitally, I could at least sketch it by hand, photograph it, and trace it. I committed to drawing every day and took weekly art classes for three years. I also dove into online logo design courses, studying the principles, purpose, and function of logos.

Now, I study the work of iconic designers like Paul Rand and Milton Glaser. I’m fascinated not just by their logos, but by their process, mindset, and stories—which I often relate to. My journey as a designer is ongoing, but it’s grounded in persistence, curiosity, and a genuine love for the craft.

Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?

If I could go back, I would focus more on mastering simple shapes and foundational design principles rather than jumping into complex figures too early. Understanding how to communicate effectively with minimal elements is the core of great logo design. I also would’ve spent more time studying the pioneers of the craft. There’s a lot of wisdom in the work of those who came before us, and learning from their processes, successes, and philosophies can accelerate growth in a way that technical skills alone can’t. I make it a point now to regularly study legendary designers and honor the legacy they’ve built.

What skills do you think were most essential?

One of the most essential skills is to never give up. Designing for others can be challenging—especially when you’ve invested weeks or even months into a project that ultimately doesn’t align with the client’s vision. It can be discouraging, but the ability to stay committed, adapt, and keep pushing forward is critical. Creativity is as much about resilience as it is about talent.

What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

One obstacle I faced early on was the lack of visibility and recognition for logo designers. It often felt like the designers behind the work were overlooked, undervalued, or taken for granted. That realization fueled my motivation—not just to improve my craft, but to honor the profession. My goal has always been to carry the torch forward and become the best logo designer I can be, while also giving credit to those who paved the way.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Sean Weal, a passionate designer with over 10 years of experience. Based in New Jersey, I specialize in crafting logos that empower businesses to feel confident, professional, and consistent in their messaging. With a background in Digital Communications and a strong focus on design, I blend creativity and discipline to deliver exceptional results.

My mission is to help brands stand out and connect with their audiences through unique, high-quality design. Whether you’re launching a new venture or reimagining your identity, I’m here to bring your vision to life. Let’s work together and create.

Follow me on instagram @seanweal. Or visit www.seanweal.com

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Learn your craft. Learn who excelled in the particular craft. Be discipline, consistent, and confident.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect is when I randomly see my work in the real world, or if a client gifts me merchandise I made digitally.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.seanweal.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanweal
• Linkedin: https://www.seanweal.com/about-seanweal