Janelle Hugel
Hey there, I'm Janelle! I'm a freelance graphic designer from Washington, DC. I've made every single stupid mistake over the last 15 years making a living as a full-time creative, and I want to help other people get there with a little less heartburn. Around here there will be design nerdery, lots of freelance tips I've learned the hard way, and creative experiments just for the hell of it. If that sounds like fun, let's be friends!
I tried MORNING PAGES for 3 months… Here’s what happened
Freelance designers: here’s what to offer AFTER BRANDING
Dear multi-passionate creatives: You’re not broken
Design a Smithsonian museum with me from start to finish!
Portfolio tips that actually help
Graphic Design essentials: everything you actually NEED
Let me help you pick your Graphic Design career path
The real reason you're undercharging (+ how to fix it)
11 project ideas to fill your DESIGN PORTFOLIO
How to customize ANY font style in Adobe Illustrator
10 graphic design books to master TYPOGRAPHY
Will writing Morning Pages make me more creative?
15 arts + crafts kits that help ANYBODY be creative (even you!)
Don't just slap together a vision board for 2025 | MOODBOARD your year!
6 things I wish I knew before starting my creative business | 2025
Here's why the 1 concept design method is wrong (...kinda)
GET PAID! I made every freelance billing mistake so you don't have to
50+ Gifts any creative would actually like to get!
You're not using MOCKUPS right—these 3 tips will help
I tried 5 FREE STOCK PHOTO sites so you don't have to—here's the best one
5 GRAPHIC DESIGN BOOKS to help you DIY Design School
4 Ways to find your own style | Steal Like a DESIGNER
Design a BRAND IDENTITY with me from start to finish
CANVA vs ADOBE: Here's what changed my mind
Want to be a GRAPHIC DESIGNER in 2025? Start here.
How to be a Digital Nomad (You can ACTUALLY do it!)
The best advice no one gives beginner creatives
10 freelance tips I wish I knew sooner
FREE WORK isn't always bad - here's when it's a smart move
Starting on YouTube in my 30s after 15 years of freelancing