Store Uzu no Oka: Coto POP adorns the storefront of the Aji Market.
The staff in charge of illustrations and explanatory text make their own handmade products through a trial-and-error process. The staff members in charge of creating illustrations and explanatory text do so by hand through a trial-and-error process. For this interview, we asked Ms. Mizogami, a staff member in charge, about the tips and charms of creating Koto POP.
Tips for Creating Coto POPs
Q: Your "koto POP" has a warm and cute feel, but what are your tips for making them?
In order to make the POP easy to understand, we use only four to five colors. I try to make the lines of the illustrations as rounded as possible to create a soft atmosphere. I also try to make the text large and easy to read.
Q. Are you particular about your pens and tools?
I often use water-based pens that show colors more clearly than colored pencils. Recently, I have also started using Posca.
We want to create something that conveys the message.
Q: In the process of creating koto-POP, were there any illustrations or text that you found difficult?
With illustrations, it is difficult to add shadows. Sometimes I have to ask other staff members for advice. It is also difficult to draw the fibers of an onion in an illustration!
I see that you are not making it easy. By the way, have you always been good at drawing illustrations?
I draw slower than others and I used to not like it very much. Since I started working here, I began to draw illustrations and learned to enjoy it. So I would like to continue making koto-POP, and if I am going to do it, I would like to be good at it so that I can communicate well with customers.
Thank you very much!
When you come to Awaji Island, please stop by "Shop Uzu no Oka Aji Ichiba" decorated with fun-filled Koto POP.
