How I illustrated my first book project

Six weeks, 25 illustrations, and everything I learned along the way

Today is a big milestone: the first book I’ve illustrated is officially out in the world! Soju Party: How to Drink (and Eat!) Like a Korean is written by my sister, Irene Yoo, photographed by Heami Lee, and illustrated by yours truly.

I shared some of my illustrations with you last week, but today I want to spill ALL the details on my full process so you can learn what it’s like to illustrate a nonfiction book. Buckle up, this deep dive post is long and may get cut off in your email! Click the title to read it in full in your browser.

In today’s post I’ll be covering:

• The initial inquiry

• Nailing the illustration style

• Brainstorming & sketching

• Managing workflow (while working a day job)

• The importance of reference photos

• The hardest illustration

• Final deliverables

• Reflections & lessons learned