Designer Toys 101: How do I write a press release?

If you are new to this column, it is truly meant to be read from the beginning to the most recent.
Please start with the first installment, "What are Designer Toys?"
Since this column started last year, we've covered just about every basic topic that your average newcomer might have. And I strangely get asked quite a few questions that new artists in this industry have, so I figured now was the time to switch gears and delve into the for a wee bit. By far the most asked question is: "How do I get my work blogged about on Spanky Stokes?" Well, if you look to the right and wee bit up from these words then you'll see an image that reads "Contact us, e-mail." Well, that was easy; done.

Oh, I guess there probably should be more to it than that, right? Unless the people asking are all unobservant, I'll assume what they really mean to ask is: "What information do I need to send you so that you'll write me up?" Or, more precisely, "How do I write a press release?"

There is really no right or wrong way to write a press release in this industry, no set format that you have to obey. But, in writing it, you should have a mental list of check boxes that need to be satisfied…

Regarding you as an artist:

• The name which you want to be credited as; and
• any and all websites/online links you want associated to your artistic identity.

Simple but important. Name recognition is key in this industry as is being able to find your work. Don't assume a blogger knows these things, spell them out quickly and simply.

And, of course, regarding the piece being submitted:

• The title of the piece;
• the base platform (if a custom);
• the dimension(s)/height of the piece;
• the edition size of the piece (even if it is 1);
• the release date and time of the piece (if it is for sale);
• the cost of the piece (if it is for sale); and
• where to buy the piece (once again, if it is for sale).
• Lastly, tell us about the piece you are submitting... this is important as we like to tie this into any write-up.

If you've answered all of the above bullet points in some way or form, then you are good to go. Obviously, remember to attach at least one image to your press release; we're in a visual medium after all.

Seems simple, but many people don't provide that much information. And if the piece is not for sale, then determine what you want from the blogger… in other words, if it is a custom that was made as a commission then how can someone commission a custom of their own from you? Put that in the press release! Help us bloggers to help you!

Next Week: How to make a custom (part one).