Karen Jorritsma RGD

Karen Jorritsma RGD

I am the owner and Graphic Designer behind Bolster Design. I am a multidisciplinary designer with an eye for detail and innovation. I have 20+ years of experience working for reputable agencies large and small, specializing in promotional marketing, brand identity, and corporate communications. My expertise includes creating designs that engage an audience and deliver a message, working collaboratively with clients to translate their vision into reality, and elevating brands through strategic design solutions. I love learning new things and taking on new projects.

Burlington, ON

Member since June 14, 2018

Freelance graphic designer

Skills

• Corporate Communications
• Marketing
• Production
• Branding
• Creative Direction
• Digital Marketing
• Print
• Print Production

City of Burlington Culture Engagement Identity

City of Burlington Culture Engagement Identity

A vibrant, community-focused visual identity developed for the City of Burlington’s Culture Plan engagement campaign. The design system included an identifier, event materials, social media graphics, website updates, and branded apparel to support meaningful, inclusive public participation in shaping the city’s cultural future.

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Microsite Layout

Microsite Layout

I designed and laid out a contest microsite for a deli product savings campaign, optimized for desktop and iPhone. The microsite reflected the print campaign's look, ensuring cohesive branding. I focused on creating an engaging, user-friendly experience that aligned seamlessly with the campaign's visuals across all platforms.

Logo Design

Logo Design

I designed a custom logo for an Etsy boutique selling hand-sewn pocket squares and bow ties. The one-color logo features a woven icon of the company’s initials, reflecting its fabric focus. I ensured the design was versatile for online use, embroidery, silk screening, and wood etching, avoiding fine details for better reproduction.

Book Design

Book Design

I designed a book cover mockup for a fiction novel about a child prodigy dancer. To enhance shelf appeal, I layered images, used moody colors, and featured a photo of a girl with her back turned to evoke drama and intrigue. The design aimed to spark curiosity and draw readers in with its dynamic and mysterious feel.

Print & Digital Brand Awareness Campaign

Print & Digital Brand Awareness Campaign

I designed a series of posters and social media ads for a package shipping company, focusing on clear messaging and bold visuals to highlight key services. The design incorporated vibrant colors and easy-to-read typography. I managed the production process, ensuring the designs were print-ready, optimized for different sizes, and delivered on time.

Annual Report Design

Annual Report Design

I art directed, designed and managed production for Halton Healthcare's annual report. The "Transformation" theme highlighted the merger of three hospitals, focusing on growth, patient care, and technology. The design featured bold colors, infographics, and patient stories. Deliverables included a 20-page printed report and a digital PDF.

Point-of-sale Production

Point-of-sale Production

As a freelance graphic designer specializing in promotional marketing and in-store POS, I create designs that engage shoppers and enhance brand visibility. From retail displays to digital graphics, I manage production and collaborate with teams to deliver creative, optimized solutions that drive results at the point of purchase.

Promotional Brochure Series

Promotional Brochure Series

The goal was to create brochures highlighting Hamilton's key business sectors for investors, officials, and local businesses. I designed a cohesive series layout, collaborated on content and approvals, and managed production. Over two years, we produced four brochures with unique color palettes, custom icons, and infographics to simplify data.