Doodling his way into an artistic enterprise

Design student Dylan Chia's entrepreneurship journey started with his love for doodling.

- Rosalind Ang

Mr Dylan Chia says his most memorable encounter with money was when he paid for his storage unit's annual lease upfront, "which saw my bank account plunge from five digits to just $2,000. It was a nerve-racking but pivotal moment that showed me the real risks and responsibilities of running a business."

(ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH)

"Growing up, I filled any blank space I could find on my homework with little sketches, often of the things I saw around me, or short comics," he said.

The 21-year-old first started a comic account online where he shared four-panel comics about a hamster named Boba.

"I was a student with limited cash flow, and stickers were the most affordable type of merchandise I could create. Over time, I expanded my range of sticker designs, which eventually grew into a full-fledged sticker business," he said.

Mr Chia is now the owner of crafts business DCHTOONS, through which he sells merchandise based on his artwork. His product line has expanded to include keychains.

Beyond merchandise, he also collaborates with brands to bring illustrations into campaigns and products, bridging the gap between corporate communication and creative storytelling.

Mr Chia, who is pursuing a diploma in design for communication and experiences at the Lasalle College of the Arts, lives with his parents and does not own a car.

Q Do you invest in anything?

A I do not.

Q What's your biggest or most valuable asset right now?

A My business.

Q What's your approach to growing your money?

A My money grows from the profits I make through DCHTOONS. The process starts with me creating artwork, which is based on my day-to-day experiences.