DIY DOCS: STEFFI LYNN

In DIY DOCS, we take a look at how illustrators, artists, and designers put their stamp on a Dr. Martens product. Painting, tattooing or de-constructing – we’re giving them the creative freedom to express themselves off of the canvas.

Meet Steffi Lynn, the Brooklyn-based illustrator and lettering artist behind Have A Nice Day. There’s no medium that Steffi shies away from; her cheery slogans and playful designs can be found on large-scale murals, tote bags, earrings, coffee cups, and a pair of black 1460s.

Introduce yourself. Tell us how you are, what you do, and where you’re from.

Hi! I am Steffi Lynn, I am an illustrator, hand letterer, and a small business owner originally from Austin, Texas.

How did you get started doing illustration and lettering?

I’ve been immersed in illustration and lettering since I was pretty young. In middle school, I remember buying those cute hand lettering books and practicing the different styles on my friends’ names. I didn’t start doing it as a career until the end of my college years. The first lettering project I remember working on is for Seventeen Magazine! I was interning there and I was blessed to be given a project to letter their cover story.

Tell us about the inspiration behind the design you created for DIY DOCS.

I feel like I have somewhat of a contrasting style… I really enjoy sweet, cute illustrations and lettering but I’m also very influenced by traditional American tattoo styles. I like to mix the two!

Why did you choose the moniker “Have A Nice Day?”

Well, honestly, it’s kind of a reminder to myself and others to just have nice days, haha. I was looking for an Instagram handle to share my art and I thought it was cute, funny and classic … so BOOM.

You make everything from paper goods to clothing, and accessories. Are there any products you’d like to expand into or sell in your shop?

Hmm … I really want to do more home goods and more clothing. I just love seeing my illustrations come to life so I would love to try anything and everything!

What do you love most about living in New York City?

I am never uninspired. Cheesy to say but, the hustle is insane out here. It really keeps me motivated and makes me want to keep creating and pushing to achieve more.

Tell us about your first pair of Dr. Martens.

My first Dr. Martens were brown 1460s. I was just starting college and I remember thinking “Damn, I really want some boots that I can wear with everything and anything and bring a little rough touch to my girly outfits,” haha. I still have them on my shoe rack!

What do you do when you’re not working? Do you have any other hobbies or talents?

I am kind of a workaholic and I love to be productive so when I am not “working” I am still “working;” like finding other things to craft or make. As far as talents, I was a competitive dancer up until I moved to New York, so that’s a fun fact!

Check out Steffi Lynn on Instagram and Etsy.