Kat Manor
Graphic Designer / Illustrator / Nature Lover / Pretzel Eater / Human
St. Paul / Minneapolis, MN
www.katdogdesign.com
instagram @katdogmanor
Q What do you do?
“I help brands figure out what they look like, how they show up, and how they make people feel. That usually means designing logos, packaging, websites, and illustrations that tell a story and make a connection.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
Lots of trial and error and curiosity. I have always been art-inclined, but it has had its ups and downs.
I got my design degree > worked in agencies > burnt out at said agencies > became a barista > fell in love with design again > and finally built my own studio, Katdog Design :)
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I blend strategy with personality, ensuring my work isn’t just visually appealing, but that it is truly connecting. My illustration-driven approach brings a handcrafted, human touch that makes brands feel alive and full of character.
Q What are you working on right now?
Right now I am working on a local cannabis company’s rebrand and subsequent web redesign. I am loving it.
Q What’s your style?
My sweet spot is unique typography meets hand-drawn illustration and lots of color. A personal project that is dear to me is here.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Illustration-driven packaging projects. More of that, please.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Promoting my own work. It’s actually a lot harder than promoting clients' work—it’s funny how that works. I mostly rely on word of mouth, which tends to bring in the best clients, but being an introvert, it can still be a bit of a challenge.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Someone to handle the boring-but-necessary stuff—emails, bookkeeping, file organization. Basically, I need a second brain to handle the things I don’t want to think about so that I can be fully focused on the outcome of the project. And maybe a social media person to make me look like I have my life together online.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I'd probably tell my younger self to take more risks and trust the process. And everyone gets ‘impostor syndrome’, so stop beating yourself up. I would remind myself that failure is just part of the journey, not the end. The earlier I embraced that, the better.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Oh boy, good question. I would ask about pricing my work, general freelancing best practices, life/work balance as a self-employed designer.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I love working with women and minority-owned businesses, businesses that are making a positive impact (whether socially, environmentally, culturally) and of course are looking for a personality packed brand/package/visual/etc.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
The project I am currently working on is ideal. I’m rebranding a company whose product I am truly passionate about. The owner is working closely with me and values me not only as a designer but also as a business owner. They bounce business ideas off of me, which creates a collaborative and trusting relationship that makes the work even more rewarding.
Q: What is your rate?
My services generally start around $2,000 for a basic brand redesign, with the final cost depending on the scope and complexity of the project. For ongoing freelance design work, my hourly rate typically ranges from $50 to $110, depending on the project requirements. I'm also open to working with solopreneurs or non-profits at a discounted rate, as I love supporting businesses that have a positive impact.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email (katdogdesign@gmail.com) or a direct message via my website (www.katdogdesign.com). I’d love it if the intro includes a bit about your project—like the scope, budget, and any specific goals you have in mind. I appreciate clear communication upfront so I can give you my best thoughts and estimate.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Maddy @madeofline is an amazing illustrator and animator.
Libby @typedunord is a talented type designer.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Exploring new places, animals, fresh air.
This member profile was originally published in April 2025.