In our online poll about portfolio websites, over 30% of those that responded said they know they need one but don't know where to start. As with many projects, getting started can be the hardest part. If you have experience creating a portfolio for your own design work, or for others, please share your tips and advice on the first steps to take.

I had a chance to go over to the market at the Old American Can Factory on Sunday to see some great local Brooklyn products, from t-shirt designs to jewelry. Of course the design geek in me was most drawn to the Swayspace letterpress "booth" with custom cards, and I couldn't resist getting a set just to watch the machine in action. After selecting some nice serif letters, the platen press, which was manufactured by Chandler & Price in Cleveland in 1905, went to work. Here's a few shots of the process.

Designers find inspiration in all kinds of places... books, museums, nature, and countless other sources. Where do you find yours? If you don't see your answer here please share in the comments.

I often speak about the importance of taking on both sides of graphic design... creativity and business. While many of us would like to spend ALL our time designing, we inevitably have to deal with writing proposals, signing contracts, paying quarterly taxes, and other business activities that make design profitable.