Iconography is a specialized talent. Working in such small confines making images that convey specific meanings. Previously, I have heavily endorsed using IconExperience. Over 2,500 icons in lots of sizes, with and without shadows. It’s a cornucopia of excellent images. They are very easy to mashup to create a nearly infinite set.
Recently, I have had to look at a new style for icons. I remember the last time I did this and how many months it took me to get everything right. I use alot of icons in general. Now, I am constraining myself further by trying to use monochromatic images. Look at this one example, the wrench:
The second image is just a zoomed in version of the original. I tried 6 different wrench icons. Notice how they are different in small subtle ways. The angle, size of the head, dithering are all slightly different. For much longer than I am proud to admit, I stared at these options and looked for more alternatives. I agonized over the decision and ultimately chose the second wrench.
I only need to do that a few hundred more times and I will be finished. Iconography…it is a skill unto itself.
Whatya think?