I started working on Bombs Away in early September, and this was the first version. I like to use a Street Chrome lighter as my starting point while I work through the artwork. Once the design takes shape, I choose the lighter finish that brings it all together.

The placement of “Bombs Away” along the bottom of the artwork wasn’t quite working for me. I also wanted to carry part of the design onto the lid, so the next version explored both ideas.

I liked the row of bombs across the lid, a nod to the mission markings used on WWII bombers to record completed bombing runs. But the “Bombs Away” lettering still didn’t feel right, so I kept working on its placement.

Moving the title onto the lid felt right, but the lettering needed more character. I’d seen photos of WWII bombers with their names painted in script, and that became the inspiration for the next version.

After adding a textured green background, I sent the design to my friend Joe D. He suggested pairing the artwork with a Classic Green Matte lighter, and his instinct was spot on. That finish brought everything together and became the foundation for the finished Bombs Away design.