"Keep it simple"

Pascal Strasche

Indie Maker at Toools.design + uicons.com

Last updated on 11 Oct, 2025

Portfolio cover image of Pascal Strasche

What apps do you use to help you design?

ChatGPT

Figma

Trello

Webflow

What books do you recommend?

Atomic Habits

Evolutionary Psychology

Getting Things Done

Man and His Symbols

What tools do you use to help you design?

LG UltraFine Macbook Pro Magic Trackpad MX Master 3S

How did you get started in your role as a designer?

In the final term of my master’s in interaction design, I decided to skip an internship and apply directly for a full-time role at an innovative agency in the big city. It wasn’t easy. I applied several times before finally getting the chance, and that persistence paid off. I joined as a UI designer, worked on some of Germany’s most popular mobile apps, and learned a lot about UX along the way. Five years later, I had a strong portfolio and decided to go freelance. I worked closely with startups to shape their MVPs and found myself wearing more and more hats, which sparked my interest in building my own products. I’ve always loved exploring new tools. Back at the agency, I was the one leading the implementation of Sketch and Zeplin when most of the industry were still using Photoshop. That led me to create productdesignresources.com, which later became Toools.design, as a place to collect and share the best tools for designers, always on the hunt for the next Sketch or Figma.

What are the responsibilities of your role as a designer?

My responsibility as a product design freelancer and Webflow expert is to translate a companies vision and requirements into something people can actually use and love. From early prototypes to polished marketing sites, I help startups iterate fast and grow with purpose. As an indie maker, my role expands far beyond design. I’m responsible for building something people actually want and keeping it sustainable. That means wearing every hat: founder, designer, developer, product manager, marketer, and support. Each hat gives me a new perspective on how design connects to the bigger picture of running a business.

What difficulties do you encounter in your role as a designer?

In my agency years, the main challenge was leadership expectations. I was pushed toward management roles that didn’t align with me. I’ve always preferred creating over directing. Becoming a freelancer allowed me to focus on my strengths: hands-on UI design, creating intuitive user experiences, and development. Later, as an indie maker, the challenges shifted. I had to learn entirely new skills like marketing, sales, and product management while staying motivated without a team. Every stage came with its own difficulties, but each one expanded my understanding of how design connects to other areas.

How do you incorporate the apps in your design process?

AI and automation are a big part of my daily toolkit. I use ChatGPT as a constant companion that helps me research, code, and market. I organize my projects, processes, and my personal life with Trello boards and heavy automation. And of course, I use Figma for prototyping and design and Webflow for development.

What advice would you give to your younger self trying to get into the field of design?

I’d tell myself to listen inward and follow my strengths. You don’t have to follow the traditional path to build a meaningful career. Every project, skill, and experiment adds up, so trust your curiosity and keep creating.

Do you have any regrets in your journey in becoming a designer?

Less perfection, more doing. Every mistake taught me more than overthinking ever could.

As a designer how do you stay inspired?

Inspiration comes from constant curiosity. I read design publications and newsletters to stay close to what’s happening in the field, but I also find creativity and new ideas in everyday life through travel, exhibitions, and learning from other cultures.