Ever wonder who gives our floor mats their distinctive look? While we have a whole team that makes PromoMatting tick, there’s one person in charge of imagining, unifying, and perfecting our memorable designs. That’s Mark Lee, art department lead. We sat down with Mark to learn more about him as a creative person and how he makes PromoMatting mats look so good. Here’s our Q&A:
How long have you been working with PromoMatting?
I have worked for PromoMatting since October of 2014, so more than 3 years now.
How long have you been working in design?
I have been working as a graphic designer since 2007, so over 10 years.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy working on vintage motorcycles. I currently own two Harley-Davidsons, a 1980 Sportster and a 1984 FXR. I enjoy making cigar box guitars and selling them. I also am an amateur musician. I play drums and a little guitar. I spend as much time as I can with my seven-year-old daughter, too.
In what ways do you see custom mats benefiting customers?
Floor space is the last frontier of unused advertising space. Floor mats can give a product maximum exposure right where it really matters, like at a point of purchase display. A floor mat can also make a great first impression when used at an entrance situation.
Tell us about the injection dye process used in our Nylon Dye Mats.
Digital Injection Dying is the process in which ink jets are used to inject dye deep within nylon carpet fibers. Once the dye is set with heat, the image will not fade or wear.
What is the most challenging aspect of designing for floor mats?
Taste and attitudes toward styles is constantly changing. In my opinion, a great challenge is knowing when there is enough information being conveyed without overdoing it. A floor mat is not a business card. Usually an average person only looks down at a floor mat for a matter of seconds. You want to make sure you get to the point. Too much info can definitely be overkill.
What steps are taken to ensure you have created the best possible product for our customers?
First, our Service Department nails down what the mats are going to be used for. (e.g., where they are going to be displayed, financial limitations, etc.) Then it is up to the Art Department to look at the logo and/or art that is intended for the mat. We have to decide if this type of art is compatible with the type of mat. Once this is all figured out, we modify the art (if necessary) and get it ready for its application. Then we can aid the customer in deciding which color combinations work best for their application. We send the customer a digital proof that shows a mock-up of what the finished mat will look like and then work with the customer to make sure they are satisfied with every detail. We also can have preproduction versions made so the customer can see and inspect their mat before they commit to a large run.
What suggestions do you give customers for their designs?
As I said earlier, simple and to-the-point is the best rule of thumb for advertising. Also, it is best to avoid large bright white areas. White, in general can be a bad idea in floor mats. I feel that light grays or eggshell or off-whites are better choices. Unfortunately, foot traffic means dirt. While a crisp white may look great in print ads, it’s not always the best choice for floor mats.
