1. featuring different working methods and uses of materials
2. showcasing makers
3. promoting prototype projects
4. exploring shops and workspaces
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Name: Jérémie Laguette
Title: Craftsperson
Company: Woodwork & Design
Company Website: jeremielaguette.com
Instagram: @jl.woodwork
Tell us a bit about your background and how you came to design.
When I arrived to Canada from France four years ago, it wasn’t easy finding work in my field. To save money I made my own furniture from wood I found on the street. What started as an attempt at being resourceful quickly grew into a hobby of mine. Last year I decided to host a wine and cheese party for friends, and wanted to create a piece to brighten up the living room (we had awful lighting at the time). I ended up making my first typographic sign that said “Cheese” to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It quickly became apparent how powerful a singular word can be when presented properly - people were so happy to see it. I began making signs that honoured the simplicity and elegance found in singular words. Everyone has their own - it’s so satisfying to see it illuminated.
What's your personal design philosophy?
To strive for perfection without ever reaching it, and exploiting this imperfection to yield a unique design.
Could you describe your process?
My process always begins with a word. Then, by process of elimination, I choose a typeface that best suits the word, which is the most difficult part. After choosing the colour and stain, I sketch the word onto a baseboard and paint it. I then build the frame, using finger joints and wood glue (no nails), and stain it with my own stains made from stuff I find in my home - coffee, tea, vinegar, steel wool, etc. Next I plot out where each bulb will go, and install the electrical components. My favourite part is installing the bulbs and turning the lights on to ensure everything works.
What materials do you use?
I use spruce or pine wood for the frame, and plywood for the background. I paint with spray paint and stain with home-made stains.
What is your most cherished tool?
My favourite tool is my stencil knife, which is like my paint brush. It allows me to be very precise and draw out any kind of typeface with it, be it script, serif, or slab.
Which of your designs or projects are you most excited about right now and why?
Right now I’m working on a design for circular signs (all of the signs I’ve created so far have been rectangular or square). I’m learning how to bend wood, which is a new technique for me. It will open my work up to a lot of new design possibilities.
Where can we find your work?
Brick&Mortar in New Westminister carries some of my work. My “Cheese” sign (the first and original sign!) is currently displayed at Les Amis du Fromage on East Hastings, and my “Yeah” sign is on display at the Make Gallery in Mount Pleasant. My workspace is open by appointment.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your design process?
I’m really inspired by vintage signs. I saw a lot of amazing ones during a recent road trip through the desert of the US. And Vancouver has an abundance of beautiful old neon signs - it’s so rewarding finding inspiration everywhere I go, even in commercial signage dispersed throughout the city.
Sketch; Tool
Workspace; Tool
Product; Product
Inspiration; Portrait
