I Slap Nutters For Jesus!
This t-shirt design was commissioned by a client via The Something Awful Forums. The phrase 'I Slap Nutters For Jesus' is an inside joke between a group of friends and relates to their hunting trips. The client asked for an illustration of a squirrel reaching for an acorn and getting slapped. The idea was to make the illustration look old timey, inspired by vintage ads.
I added a bit of a cartoon look to it, as well.
The first step was to decide on the character design. How old timey would this squirrel have to look? I went from Tex Avery to Disney back to vintage ad style.
Squirrel in motion! My final character design has a bit of a Seth MacFarlane look to it, which seemed fitting, as the illustration should look animated.
Here's our squirrel buddy in full color.
The hand which shall slap the squirrel. This is the ideal level of detail needed for such an illustration - not too much, simple enough.
Hand in color. Its design takes us back to vintage ads which commonly featured a floating hand pointing at a sign, slogan, or a product.
Acorn. Because our squirrel buddy needs to be reaching for one.
The 'I Slap Nutters For Jesus' sign must look authentic, like it belongs on a metal plate vintage ad from the early 20th century. Several typography combinations were made. The final one is what the one selected by the client.
Finally! Designed for shirts.
For more commissioned craziness, check out my work or contact me via: RadRecorder.com
