When I have an idea in my mind of what I want to create, it's hard to resist jumping right onto my computer. However, it really is best to sit down, pull out the pencil and paper, and start sketching it first. Sometimes things just flow and develop naturally that would otherwise be overlooked. My favorite method is to grab a piece of computer paper and draw the basic outline of what I want to create. Next, I lay a page of tracing paper on top and draw what ever comes to my mind. The tracing paper is a lot easier to erase on and I can draw outside of the lines while still visualizing my boundaries.
When I have a pretty good idea of my drawing, I grab a fine point pen and start outlining. Once all of the pencil marks have been erased and the picture is outlined, I scan my image. There are many different techniques that you can use from here. Some graphic designers like to use Photoshop and its many paintbrushes. I prefer to use Illustrator. (I'm such a vector girl.) This weekend I plan on showing everyone how to make a vector appear grungy and textured without ever touching Photoshop.