PROJECT PORTFOLIO

NFT Collection - 2021

In May of 2021, I started my first official project. Following the growth of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), I chose to create my own collection called Crypto Freds. Using the Aseprite software, I designed various versions of these cute creatures.

Here is how I described the collection in 2021: “A brand new collection of NFTs—each NFT features a unique avatar (a Crypto Fred). The floor price is constantly rising, and each new release contains NFTs of varying rarities.”

Although it didn’t become the next CryptoPunk, the project introduced me to the idea of making money on my own.

Graphic Design - 2022/23

In 2022, I chose to start a Graphic Design business. Before starting, I had some prior experience using Photoshop and other such software, but this was a completely new challenge. I learned about colour theory and typography, and as I progressed, I saw clear improvements in what I was creating. Eventually, I felt confident enough to start posting videos online—and it worked. Although not massive, I gained some attention and was able to work with a few clients, including a startup record label and a tech startup in Germany.

I truly learned a lot about marketing, customer service, and graphic design during this project—skills which have, and continue to, pay dividends.

TheMaksGuide Blog - 2023/24

At the end of 2023, I wanted to use the graphic design and writing skills I had learned to create my very own website. The website I chose was a blog about my favourite trading card game, Pokémon TCG. This website was not easy—I quickly learned about the costs of running and maintaining a website. I also learned about SEO and realised I wasn’t just going to rank #1 on Google without any work.

So, I gained an official HubSpot SEO Qualification, using what I learned to improve my website’s domain authority. I contacted hundreds of blog owners, attempting to gain backlinks for my website. Eventually, I reached DeltiasGaming. Deltia, a popular Baldur’s Gate content creator and website owner with half a million followers on platforms like Twitch, agreed to work with me. I worked with the website as a guest blogger, helping them branch out into a new niche over several months, whilst being taught a tremendous amount by Deltia and his team—an experience I’m truly grateful for.

Eventually, I ranked #1 for a brand new Pokémon TCG release, bringing in 10,000 views on that page alone in a week. Despite the website being taken down a year later, TheMaksGuide truly made me realise that anything is possible with enough work.

Monster Kind - 2024

Monster Kind was my largest personal coding project. In the past, I had programmed websites using HTML, CSS, and some JavaScript. However, using Python in the Godot game engine, I created my first ever game.

The simple, 2D, top-down game allows the player to be immersed in a world where saving, not fighting, monsters is rewarded. This project was incredibly fun—and one I’m very proud of.

Quick Clean - 2021/25

In the summer of 2021, I chose to set up my own local service business called “Quick Clean.” Whilst working on other projects over the last five years, I’ve continued running this business, providing services every weekend.

Quick Clean is a local car washing business I set up. To advertise my services, I used social media posts, posters, and door-to-door knocking. The small business grew and earned me the most money out of all my projects. Although not glamorous, the business improved my ability to deal with a variety of customers, as well as how to handle and track money.