In Her Studio Premier Issue

Stam p i n g t o n & Co mpa ny aug/sep/oct 2018 • DISPLAY UNTIL 10/29/18

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i n h e r s t u d i o ma ga zi ne . co m

founder & creative director Kellene Giloff publisher@stampington.com editor-in-chief & director of publishing Christen Hammons bellagrace@stampington.com senior managing editor Amber Demien inherstudio@stampington.com assistant senior managing editor Danielle Williams associate editors Kelly Kirchner Evelyn Mateos art manager Erin Solis assistant art manager & Lead graphic designer Eirene Nguyen junior graphic designers Danielle Bucur Nichole Martin Lindsay Wiley director of photography Johanna Love newsstand consultant PSCS Consulting general manager Jonathan Giloff

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VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1

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Photo by Natalie Toms

“ ... there is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of my mind.”

— Virginia Woolf Dear friends, The simple fact is that creativity has no boundaries — any limitations we encounter are either of our own making or we have the power to overcome them.

But, there is also no arguing that there are ways we can bolster our creativity, and many artists and makers would agree that a space of one’s own is the perfect place to start.

As children we fill our bedrooms with favorite toys and found objects discovered while playing outside.

As adults we decorate our homes with items that appeal to our sense of aesthetics and those that hold sentimental meaning. We also customize our office spaces, infusing our personalities into public or corporate environments. Even our cars bear the marks of our individuality through bumper stickers or trinkets hanging from the rearview mirror. Some artists do not create a space of their own because they feel it is a luxury they cannot afford or justify, but carving out a special space for ourselves is an instinctual act we have been doing our entire lives, so why should creativity deserve anything less?

Whether you sew or paint or sculpt or weave, you too can have a space of your own — if not an entire room, then perhaps in a corner or against a wall in your home. Deciding upon the place is the first step, and then those instincts will kick in and you’ll fill your space with the things you love, the things that are uniquely you. Just like that, you’ll have a studio, too.

Inside each issue of In Her Studio, we seek to inspire you with the spaces and stories of creative women. No matter what you make with your own hands or where you make it, we hope you will find inspiration, advice, and encouragement within these pages that you can apply to your own creative practice.

To limitless creativity,

Amber Demien Senior Managing Editor inherstudio@stampington.com

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in her studio contents | autumn 2018

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54 lost in thickets

by Nat alie

Toms

62 here’s to growing & to being me

by Verena

Fay

74 Stitch by stitch

by Mis s

Leela

82 it starts with intention

by Kim

Klas sen

92 Annie’s Mystery Corner

by Annie

Isa

100 bless The Theory

by Charmaine

featured articles 6 amongst the british landscape

by Bethany

Holmes

14 a tinkering oasis

by Melis sa Giglio 22 arrow art studio

by Sarah

Dungan

32 a studio on a budget for bramble & Goose

by Anna

Deakin

40 follow your own way

by Elizavet a

Rukavishnikova

48 serenity in a weaving shed

by Luc y 4

Rowan

6

Vegas

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creative confessions 28 How long did it take to get your studio “just right�? Or are you still working on it?

132 What is Your Number-One Obstacle to Studio Time?

How Do You Manage it?

just between artists 70 45 Ways to Jump-start Your Creativity

114 20 Tips for Creating in a Small Space

a studio diy 140 fresh cargo: studio aprons

by Kathleen L auth

an imperfect view 160 Muriel Boer

in every issue 106 in one word ... eclectic

by Kr ys t al

Lee

156 submission guidelines 159 about the publisher

116 a Feminine Room of My Own

by Jo -Anne

Colet ti

126 little Nomad: Knotted with Love

by Olivia

Steward

134 newfound freedom through a studio redesign

by Roben- Marie

Smith

142 life in color

by Robin

Mead

in my studio ...

21 Deborah Roberts 39 Becky Fos 91 Judith Alsop Miles 113 Cindy Riccardelli 139 Janet & Samina of Juko Designs

113 On the Cover: The s tudio of Sarah Dungan graces the cover of this issue.

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Amongst the

e p a c s d n a L h s i t Bri

by Bethany Holmes

As I sit on the floor in my studio, I consider how it was only just over a year ago that I made the decision to reduce my full-time work commitments.

I needed more time to paint and to push my own creative business, as it was becoming more and more successful. From starting out painting in the corner of my spare room, I now have my very own studio — and it was the best decision I have ever made.

I have always been a creative person. My grandfather was a photographer and my grandmother enjoyed painting, often with me when I was a young child. From early on I knew I wanted to do something creative. I studied textile design at university, so I knew from that moment I would go into the creative industry.

A change in my circumstances led me back home — a lovely little town in the southeast of England. My boyfriend’s family had two old stables that had been renovated 20 or so years ago but were now completely full of rubbish … you know how it is. My boyfriend, Ben, suggested we clear out one of the stables, give it a good clean and a fresh lick of paint, and make it into my studio. 

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Today, I can’t imagine it being as clean and tidy as when I first moved in! It’s full to the brim with scraps of paper, old paint tubes, half-painted canvases, primed wood panels, and vintage lockers bursting with odds and ends. I would like to think that my studio is a calm place. When I’m in the studio I feel I’ve escaped from everyday life — I don’t think about the time, the fact that I’ve got a load of washing to do, or that I haven’t even thought about what we’re going to have for our evening meal.

When I moved into the studio, I discovered three vintage lockers that were full of rubbish. I love these lockers and promised myself I would keep them organized so I would know exactly where everything was located. For a short time I had a locker dedicated for warm neutral paints, colder neutrals, green, blues, pinks, etc. It is 14 months later and although I still want this to be the case, it’ll never happen! I tried this system for about a week, but sure enough I failed. I tend to grab the paints that I’m drawn to and just leave them on the floor, lids off, along with paintbrushes still thick with paint. Then a week later, I’ll pull out more paints and the same thing will happen again!

In my home I have a place for everything; however, my studio is my release. I go in there and it doesn’t matter if I get paint everywhere or if nothing has an exact home. Yes, it would probably make my business a lot more efficient, but I know where everything is. When you’re in the middle of painting, using your hands, a squeegee, and a cloth, the last thing you want to do is go and put the lid back on the paint and put it back where it came from! 

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autumn 2018

In the depths of winter I’ll put the fan heater on and work in artificial light, occasionally opening the top of the stable door to check that all the colors are going in the right direction. When I shut the door again, I’m a million miles from home — I’m in my own world. I’ll put on my playlists, or a podcast, and get completely lost in the paint, textures, and, most importantly, color.

At the first warmth of spring I usually open the top of the door again and let the light flood in. It’s lovely to creep into the studio first thing with a cup of tea and listen to the birdsong that surrounds me. Then in summer, the whole door is flung open. The studio is such an inviting place at this time of year. The floor is pale gray concrete and is always nice and cool. When it’s really hot (which is rare in the UK!), I open the windows as well and let the breeze flow in. The evening sun usually comes around and warms the place up by about 6 p.m., which I usually think is an acceptable time to have a glass of cold white wine whilst I paint into the evening. 

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Although a calm space, my studio is an extremely productive environment. I work surrounded by commissions and pieces I am experimenting with for my next series of works, which hang on the wall or are propped up. Pieces I am currently working on lay on the floor alongside Ozzy, the farm border collie. Current larger paper pieces are bulldog-clipped together and hooked onto a nail in the wall.

I look to nature for my inspiration, as well as the relationship between the landscape and my canvas. I use texture, color, and marks to explore and investigate how I see the British landscape.

My paintings evolve and change; they are a process of covering up and sanding back, revealing the layers beneath. My paintings grow organically, much as the undulating British landscape changes, develops, and progresses. The land is flat, so you can see for miles and miles. This environment is the inspiration that keeps my paintings flowing. Behind the studio, I love gazing at the big sky, as the colors change throughout the day, culminating in the reds and oranges of the evening sunset.

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For more information about Bethany Holmes’ work or her studio, please visit bethanyholmes.co.uk or check out her Instagram (@bethanyholmesart).

She welcomes email at art@bethanyholmes.co.uk.

Photography by Bethany Holmes and Natasha Boyes.

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14

Oasis A Tinkering

by Melissa Giglio

When I think about the moment I fell in love with making, pictures of mud pies in the backyard and felted creations held together with safety pins come to mind. My mother is an artist, so it’s in my genes to create. This path was encouraged at a young age, as well as the importance to love what you do. I attended East Carolina University, where I majored in art education with a concentration in metals. After graduating I taught K–8 for about five years, and then my husband and I found ourselves moving in the middle of the school year to South Carolina. I was ready for a creative change and decided to pursue designing jewelry using the skills I learned in college. ď ˇ

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I knew I wanted a home studio. As a mother to a toddler, having a dedicated space to create fits our lives well. I’m either wrangling kisses or finding moments to make upstairs.

My studio is a sanctuary of sorts, with many workstations, my favorite being the best antique find of all time: an old watchmaker’s bench that I scored for only $75. It’s so wellloved, covered with maker’s marks, and most of the time 7 out of 12 drawers are open with tools poking out. My workbench is covered with various pieces of metal in all shapes and sizes. I like to tinker as I design, so this clutter of metal does not inhibit my creativity — it enhances the possibilities! Above my bench is a long cord that stretches across the wall and holds inspirational quotes and beautiful art from makers I know. My studio is filled with artwork from fellow artists, which makes my studio have such a sense of community even if I’m working by myself. These are the pieces I treasure most in my space.

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Next to my workbench is my soldering table that has attached ventilation leading out a window.

I have another table by the window that is used solely for photographing my work with the underside of an old printing-press drawer sitting on top. Usually a plethora of turquoise stones and sticks are laying about as well as the occasional coffee cup left from the day before. My studio has four other workstation tables for packaging and production; two of the tables were made by my husband, who has quite the knack for woodworking, but they have my flair with white hairpin mid-century modern legs. My studio is not minimalist to say the least, but it’s intentional — it’s functional, well-loved, and creatively chaotic in just the right way. 

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Metalsmithing on a Budget

It doesn’t take much money or space to set up a metalsmithing studio. Apart from a table or desk, there is just a short list of tools you will need: Butane torch File Flex shaft Jeweler’s saw Riveting hammer Steel block

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I’ve created a business with part-time hours that allow me freedom of my time. I love selling my work to people from all over the world through my online shop and social media. I head to the studio in the mornings when my daughter is at preschool or in the afternoon when she naps. I love listening to music or podcasts with headphones while I work to help drown out metalsmithing noises.

When creative blocks happen, tidying always helps clear my headspace. You must appreciate the ebb and flow of creativity, and allow for rest too. A walk in the woods can also jump-start my creativity. Nature and I are best friends; it’s rich and complex, but I enjoy simplifying it in my work and celebrating its beauty in a wearable and feminine way. 

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Top 5

Studio Songs 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

“Testify” by NEEDTOBREATHE “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes “Barcelona” by Ed Sheeran “Move With It” by Oh the Larceny “Everything has Changed”

by Taylor Swift

My advice for anyone with a creative spirit longing for a space to make is that you can make any corner special.

Hang beautiful art or inspirational pictures on the wall with decorative tape, put a plant on your table, and you’re set.

Everyone organizes and works in their own way. If you want to sell your work online or at shows, you must embrace learning and growing in due time. It took four months to make my first online sale! The more people I met at various shows, the more I learned about selling at shows. This type of information is best given organically as it fits your style and capacity. Most importantly, have patience and practice perseverance.

Melissa Giglio, owner and creator of January Jewelry, lives in Columbia, South Carolina, with her husband, John, and daughter, Macy.

You can view her website and online shop at januaryjewelryshop.com, or contact her at melissa@januaryjewelryshop.com. Follow Melissa on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest (@januaryjewelry).

Photography by Ashley Nicole Photography.

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In my studio …

… I make jewelry from precious metal clay. The furniture consists of two key pieces: my grandfather’s mahogany chair and a secondhand traditional jeweler’s bench. My studio is the smallest room in the house and at the top of the stairs, so when I am working I feel like I am in the very heart of my home. There is a window in the angled ceiling that lets in gorgeous natural light. On a warm day when I open the window, I hear the birds chirping and it feels as if I am sitting outside. It is a relaxing, peaceful space with white walls, a wooden floor, and a solid oak door. Because it is a small space, everything is close at hand. My studio is compact and bijoux … it is perfect.

— Deborah Roberts (@belovedandprecious)

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Arrow Art Studio

by Sarah dungan

Although I’ve always avoided having a desk job, I currently spend the majority of my days sitting in a chair at a desk in my little home studio — turns out there’s no other way I’d rather pass my time. I have loved art since I was a little kid, but didn’t believe it was a viable career option for me until recently. To be honest, I didn’t think I had enough natural talent to be an artist, and it wasn’t until I was in my mid-30s that I decided to really give art a go.

After college I worked in the restaurant industry, and lettering the specials board became my favorite part of the job. I quickly earned the title of Regional Chalk Artist, lettering the chalkboards for five locations on the first of each month. When an artist from Whole Foods Market noticed my work, I was offered a job as a sign maker. Although I didn’t feel like the corporate environment was a good fit for me, it did make me realize I wanted to spend my days creating. After establishing Arrow Art Studio in 2013, I took whatever lettering jobs landed in my inbox. Some of the work suited me — it came a little easier and looked a little better — and some of it tortured me to the point of tears. Since moving to Wine Country, Arrow Art Studio has organically evolved to focus on custom wedding and special event signage and stationery. I’ve been working full time as a hand-lettering artist for two years now, running my business out of my little cottage in Napa. 

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autumn 2018

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I love the repetitive nature of creating letterforms — the muscle memory and concept of putting in 10,000 hours of practice totally appeal to my compulsive side. The fact that each and every piece of hand lettering is oneof-a-kind keeps my creativity satisfied. I’m also just a happier person when I’m working with my hands, so making letters without the help of machines correlates with my analog approach.

As a kid, I would have my friends teach me their handwriting styles, so I had a repertoire of 10 or so handmade fonts I used to cycle through. I guess it’s been a lifelong obsession.

I do enjoy working from home, but since my studio is in the corner of the living room, it forces me to keep my workspace organized.

Due to its tiny surface area, I’ve taken full advantage of the wall space to store my supplies and materials. If you can’t build out, build up!

Each box, basket, and bin houses something different. My most frequently used pens and markers are stored in mugs and buckets on the lowest shelf for easy access. Oftentimes I work at the dining room table, and I’ll head outside onto the driveway if it’s a large-scale project. The great thing about what I do is there’s very little overhead and my essentials are pretty basic: my light table, paper, pens, inks, paintbrushes, and my laptop for email.

My workspace has a vintage, industrial feeling, as it’s filled with some great scores from my travels and my slight obsession with junk shops.

One of the most special things I have is my dad’s collection of Zig Zag music magazines from the early ’70s; they are a constant source of inspiration and I love all of the crazy, psychedelic hand lettering. What would I save in a fire?

The mint-condition 1966 Royal Safari cursive typewriter my fiancé gave me for my birthday last year. 

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One of my biggest challenges in the studio has been establishing an effective routine. It’s definitely a work in progress, but one thing that has been helpful is avoiding email and social media until the afternoon so I have time to create before getting sucked down the rabbit hole that is the internet. As a hand-lettering artist, my real muse is typography — vintage signs, old handwritten letters, restaurant menus, record covers, etc. I’m always referring to vintage type for inspiration as well. I have several books that I’m constantly flipping through: Speedball’s vintage textbook series, those giant gig poster books, and Bickham’s “The Universal Penman” (bnpublishing, 2014) are my go-to’s. And if I’m in a rut, flipping through my vinyl collection usually gets my creative juices flowing.

The past four years have been a wild ride because I have no formal training in art or business, so I’m really figuring things out as I go along. For every moment of extreme pride and contentment, there have been twice as many filled with the ugly cry. I think the biggest challenge for an artist to overcome is self-doubt. I have a big case of imposter syndrome and I’m also a perfectionist, so I can be pretty hard on myself. It’s mind over matter, but when I do get into the flow there’s really nothing like it.

To anyone wanting to work as a creative entrepreneur, I would say the most important thing is perseverance. You have to get the 10,000 hours in to truly master the muscle memory needed for hand lettering. It’s essential to learn to push through the mistakes and the fear. Also, I’d emphasize how important it is to be unique.

The whole point of making art is expressing your voice and your story — no matter what that looks like.

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autumn 2018

My Top 10 Albums for

Studio Time Fleetwood Mac, “Rumours” The Band, “Northern Lights/Southern Cross” Townes Van Zandt, “Live at the Old Quarter” Frank Zappa, “Joe’s Garage” Paul and Linda McCartney, “Ram” Al Green, “Greatest Hits” Jimmy Cliff, “The Harder They Come” Linda Rondstadt, “Greatest Hits” Ravi Shankar, “The Sounds of India” Fela Kuti, “Afrodisiac”

Sarah Dungan is a Boston-bred, Napa-based nomad, animal lover, nature seeker, and artist with a firm belief in doing things the old-fashioned way. Established in 2013, Arrow Art Studio specializes in hand-lettered signage and calligraphy for special events and weddings. Sarah’s designs are cleanly styled with an elegant edge and often feature lesstraditional materials like plexiglass, mirrors, butcher paper, and leather hides, in addition to chalkboards and paper. Her work has been featured in Magnolia Rouge, Snippet and Ink, People Magazine, and Martha Stewart Weddings. Visit arrowartstudio.com and Instagram (@arrowartstudio) to learn more.

Photography by Jess Rankin.

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Creative Confessions

How long did it take to get your studio “just right”? Or are you still working on it?

Jo-Anne Coletti My studio will always be a work in progress. It is always changing and in motion with several projects going at any given time. If I find a piece that functions better, I buy it and sell the older piece.

Krystal Lee I’m always changing my studio around, but mostly on the surface level because I use my surroundings for inspiration. I’m always swapping in one collection for another, hunting down books from various places around the house, or bringing in a new chair or clock. I’ve actually just been given a huge set of industrial metal drawers that will hold my prints and papers perfectly.

There is no way it can fit in my studio at the moment, but it’s so old and rustic and what dreams are made of, so I will have to do a little shuffling soon!

Robin Mead I feel like my studio is just right, but it is still a work in progress, as I am always finding new cool and interesting ways to make it even more fun and functional.

Photo by Bethany Holmes

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Sarah dungan I have a home studio, so I work out of the corner of my living room. Even though my desk area is very organized, I’m busting at the seams with supplies and materials. I can’t wait for the day when I have a dedicated room to work in, so, yes, definitely still working on it!

Lucy Rowan I don’t think my studio will ever be complete. I am constantly updating it and coming up with new ideas to improve it and keep it fresh.

Roben-Marie Smith Well, after many years of tolerating the mess and disorganization, I finally took on the task of a complete overhaul. Once I did, it took about five months to get it just right.

Miss Leela I set up my studio over a few months after moving into our home. It is an ever-evolving space though, as I like to rearrange things for practical and decorative reasons.

There is a continuous need to find space and storage for my growing stash, equipment, and finished products.

Melissa Giglio I think, as a maker, there is always something else we could add to our studios. I finally feel like I have the right flow in my space, but that took about four years of honing production and organization.

Olivia Steward I don’t think I will ever be done in my studio because I love to change things around!

Natalie Toms I think a studio space is an ever-evolving thing that grows with you as an artist. Having had mine for a little over a year now, I can definitely say it’s becoming more and more like a creative sanctuary.

Bethany Holmes My studio has changed dramatically in the last year or so.

It has transformed from a family dumping ground, to a beautiful white, airy space with clean walls and floors, and now an area full to the brim with paintings, flaked paint on the floor, and canvases everywhere. It feels like it has its own identity now, so it’s just right for me.

Annie Isa To me, my studio space has always been just right, even at the very beginning with just a table and some tools. But as I have the habit of collecting tools and odd objects, I can say I am always working on it!

Charmaine Vegas Coming from a visual merchandising background, it doesn’t take me long to figure out a space. Having said that, I am still in the process of getting my studio just right, working with the space I have at the moment. I do plan to move my studio away from home in the near future.

Verena Fay I am still working on the studio to get it right. Some corners are quite done and some areas have not really been touched yet. It is the same process as I evolve into the best version of my artist self — my studio and my habits change, and my work evolves. And as an architect, I do love to transform and experiment with a room.

Anna Deakin It has taken me nearly four years to get my studio just right, but as my work progresses and my needs change, I add or take things away from the studio. It is a constantly evolving space.

Kim Klassen It took months of dreaming followed by months of renovations to create this space. In small ways we’re constantly reinventing, moving this here, that there, and always shaking things up.

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A Studio on a Budget for

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Bramble & Goose

by Anna Deakin

Nestled behind a Georgian farmhouse in the idyllic village of Lymm in Cheshire, you will find an unassuming little green shed with a cream stable door — this is the home and studio of my business, Bramble and Goose.

About four years ago, after I’d had my third child, I felt I needed to claw back some “me space.” My eldest at the time was 6 years old, the next one was 4, and, of course, the new baby. I had been totally immersed in motherhood for six whole years, juggling working part time along with growing my family, and somehow I had lost all sense of me.

I got a bee in my bonnet to convert a shed into my own little space, but I needed to be very frugal about it … children are expensive! My parents gave me a little section of land on the family farm, and after weeks of trawling eBay I finally found the perfect shed; it had to have enough windows to provide light and be big enough to house all my vintage treasures and workbench, but the element that sealed the deal on this particular shed was the stable door.

The shed was a complete bargain at only £120.

It was mine and I couldn’t wait for it to arrive and begin transforming it. 

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I never cease to be thrilled when I get visitors and swing open the door to see their reactions to my studio; I love how they drink in all the different elements that have come together to create my perfect little sanctuary. Most everything in the studio has been sourced for free or for very little money. One of my favorite items of furniture is the old, battered kitchen unit; once it would have been in the farmhouse, but ever since I can remember it has been tucked away in the barn gathering dust. When we managed to extricate it from its resting place, I just knew it didn’t need renovating; the layers of age-old chipped paint and the broken door hold stories, and the color and pattern created in

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the chipped paint over decades isn’t something that can be re-created. Such a sturdy and spacious piece of furniture is wonderful for storing my stash of vintage and new fabrics. I have complemented the unit by sourcing a couple of 1950s kitchen units, which I painted in a primrose yellow to match the yellow chipped paint. Old kitchen units are a perfect storage solution.

Being from a farming background, the make-do and mend mantra is strong. The peg hooks on the wall are actually from an old fence that was ready to be turned into kindling when I spied it and saved it from the ax. I sawed off the rotting pieces and now have something truly unique and useful too.

Another great storage solution is an old printing tray I use for all my threads that is mounted on the wall; not only does it look fabulous and draw the eye in as soon as the door is opened, but it is also so handy to have all my threads accessible when I am working.

My studio is fully wired so I can use all the paraphernalia needed to make my sculptures. The workbench, again a freebie, is the perfect size to house all the different elements of my making, from molding to waxing to fabric cutting. It is also great for one-on-one workshops. It may be a small space, but I have certainly thought hard about which pieces of furniture will maximize my making capacity. ď ˇ

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I worked in many disciplines over the years, eventually finding a little niche in crafting three-dimensional paper-and-wax sculptures.

I use my knowledge of material manipulation to create delicate pieces out of Japanese rice paper and encaustic wax along with new and found materials, creating ethereal items inspired by collections of tea sets and cutlery. I never had a set goal to achieve, I just wanted to create, but with the benefits of social media I have managed to establish myself as an independent artist. My work has been very well received and exhibited and purchased by admirers of my pieces.

I would consider myself a part-time artist. I now have four young children and my routine completely revolves around them; sometimes they come in and “help” me, but mostly they play in the garden outside my studio. I have a rope swing hanging from the old apple tree for them and a slide, although the little ones prefer to dig holes right outside my door while making a building site, which I am forever filling in. My days are relaxed. I used to

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get stressed out if I had work to finish and couldn’t get going due to the needs of the children or the dreaded creative block, but I have learned to embrace these moments and just get on with other things in my life — tomorrow is another day, and the more you stress and worry about creativity, or lack of it, the worse it gets.

Take a step back and enjoy something else completely different so you can come back refreshed.

I don’t tend to listen to much music while I am working, instead preferring the sounds of Mother Nature; the birdsong on the farm is so beautiful. On rainy days it is nice to snuggle in and listen to the rain pattering on the roof, and when it is snowing a beautiful, peaceful silence descends. I can hear the farm sounds too: tractors going in and out, dogs barking when customers come to our farm shop, my beautiful cats purring on my knee while I work or running across my studio roof, geese honking in the field, and the cockerels crowing. It is totally idyllic and I don’t always want to interrupt those sounds with music. 

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One mistake I will confess I made when creating my studio was rubbishing the idea of insulating the sides of the shed because it would have hidden all the lovely wood I was planning to paint white. It looks fabulous now, even with the inadvertent effect of paint chipping, which fits in well with the vibe of the studio; however, here’s the mistake: In the winter things literally freeze in my studio, so I have to have a heater blasting all day. In the hot weather, it is an absolute sauna and there is no escaping the heat; even a fan doesn’t help. Luckily, being in Britain, very hot days are something of a rarity.

People often say, “Oh, I wish I had a space like that!”

My answer is always to just make a space. You don’t need to have a large area; even a cupboard in a corner can be converted to work for you. There are so many space-saving and storage solutions that needn’t cost the earth. I made this studio on the tightest budget, and it has taken me four

years to get it perfect. Make a plan of what you want your studio vibe to be, and then look online for free items, and trawl auction sites and reclamation yards until you find the perfect studio accessories. Think outside the box for storage solutions and don’t be afraid to upcycle and renovate battered furniture. Above all, do not rush the process; working on a budget is time-consuming, but the rewards in the end are worth it.

You can find Anna Deakin and Bramble and Goose on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, the links for which are on her website, brambleandgoose.com.

Photography by Anna Deakin and Luke Richardson Photography.

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In my studio …

… I am able to completely express who I am and create whatever is in my heart. My studio is a non-judgment zone. It is a safe and quiet place for me to listen to my mind and body so creation in its purest form can unfold. I don’t question myself in this space. I finally have found my purpose — being an artist who brings excitement to the world through color! My studio is a saturation of all things happy, vibrant, and colorful. As the natural light enters the windows and bounces off the century-old brick, I feel at peace, pick up my palette knife, and begin to paint, hoping that when people see my art, they see joy!

— Becky Fos (@becky_fos)

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autumn 2018

r u o Y w o ll Fo y a W n w O

by Elizaveta Rukavishnikova

My life itself is art, and my path has always been an adventure. Being creative is my nature and has been a regular part of my life since childhood. I’m a full-time artist and exhibit my works in galleries and art fairs. For the past two years I have lived and worked in my studio in Nugget Square in downtown Johannesburg, South Africa.

In my studio I create worlds through my art. Currently, I am working on a body of work that is an installation titled “100 Meters of Eternity.” I create upon scrolls that visually describe unknown realities and the possibility of other worlds. I believe it is very important to listen to yourself and follow your own way — this is the ethos behind my work. 

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My studio is a spaceship I use to travel to distant worlds. It is very peaceful and meditative yet at the same time it is a space of production. When I moved into this building, my only goal was to create.

I have separate areas for my work: Upstairs is dedicated to smaller bodies of work, and there I have my favorite drawing table. My bedroom is also located upstairs. Downstairs I create bigger works and sculptural pieces. The kitchen and dining area are also downstairs. My art is what makes my studio special and keeps the energy moving, but I also have items in my space that are special to me. My piano is a tool that helps me express myself. I also have a couple of momentos I brought from Russia, which are very sentimental to me and help me survive moments of homesickness: my grandmother’s photograph and a woolen shawl from my very good friend Julia. ď ˇ

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My current setup is perfect for me because it is a special place. Within my studio there is a very good atmosphere that encourages my creative process. Due to its size, I have the ability to look at my works from a distance. My new installation pieces also require a lot of space, so I’m lucky I can hang them from the high ceiling and on the large walls. Since I live in my studio, I am able to work at any time of the day or night. There is a very comfortable courtyard outside where I can enjoy a short walk or visit my neighboring artists for a cup of coffee. Even if I didn’t have this particular studio, I would still be making my art — art comes first.

The biggest challenge for me here is it gets very cold in the winter, and it is absolutely impossible to keep the studio warm, as it has a massive metal roof. But, luckily, the African winter is not very long and I find myself more productive on cold days. Also, my studio is situated in a pretty dangerous part of town, so quite often I hear gun shots coming from the streets, which can be a little disturbing. However, that said, it’s something that comes with the reality of this world and causes me to think about the value of life more.

Usually when I’m working, my studio becomes a total mess — as my grandmother used to say, “Demons will get lost in there!” I don’t worry about storage because my main focus is to make art. I put my things all over the place wherever it feels comfortable for me. When I realize that I’m getting buried by the mess, I start cleaning and organizing. When you are a full-time artist, you don’t always have time to keep everything permanently tidy because the creative process takes over. 

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My routine every day is to wake up, get to work, and eventually go to sleep. I work every day and hardly take weekends. My biggest problem is exhaustion, but my ideas and creativity keep flowing. I get very upset when I can’t keep working, and it’s difficult to switch off and stop thinking about what I’m going to do next. When this does happen, I either stay in bed, watch a movie, or go out.

I don�t think there is a particular formula when it comes to setting up a studio — it usually comes down to good luck and miracles. It’s important to find a place that fits your needs and will be suitable for your budget. Finding a studio is a creative process itself; you never know what you will find and it’s always an adventure. I started with very tiny places that were my everything: kitchen, bedroom, and studio, all in one little room. I never asked myself, “Do I want a studio?” I just created art in the space I had.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a space of your own — you do not need a studio to make art! There are a lot of situations in life, and sometimes the most fantastic art is made in the most unexpected places. The most important thing is to believe in yourself and your ideas, to be honest with yourself, and let the natural flow take over.

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Elizaveta Rukavishnikova is a Johannesburg, South Africa, based artist from Moscow, Russia. She was educated at the State Teachers College in Moscow and also studied Arabic at the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Moscow. Her drawing and painting skills were recognized when she was accepted at the Moscow State Academic Arts College. Since settling in Johannesburg, she has participated in numerous group shows, including showing at the FNB Joburg Art Fair in the Kalashnikovv Gallery booth. In 2017 she had her first solo show titled “Heart Attack,” curated by MJ Turpin at Kalashnikovv Gallery, Braamfontein.

Elizaveta’s work is in public and private art collections in South Africa, Russia, Latvia, Austria, USA, Germany, and Holland. She welcomes email at liza.rukavishnikova@gmail.com, and you can follow her on Instagram (@elizavetarukavishnikova).

Photography by Sarah Grace.

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Serenity

in a Weaving Shed

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autumn 2018

by Lucy Rowan

I grew up in a creative family and was always encouraged by various family members to make — it just stuck and now I don’t know what I would do without it. Creativity features in so many parts of my life, and I even married a creative guy who is also from a creative family. I am at my happiest when I am making and it has the power to instantly change my mood.

I work as a freelance graphic designer, so my day-to-day work changes. In my spare time I love weaving and teach it across the UK. My studio space is where I work on my weaving but it’s also where I can relax and shut myself off for a few hours — it’s a nice little hideaway from busy everyday life.

My studio is located at the end of my garden and is made out of a standard wooden shed. Originally this shed was a collaboration with the company Cuprinol as part of the TV program “Shed of the Year.” They asked me to create my own dream space, which was just the best … really, the best job I have ever had! I dragged my whole family into helping me put it up and it was ready in a weekend.

I’ve only been working in it for about six months and it’s wonderful, if a little cold at times. 

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The shed is mainly a weaving shed, so I have filled it with wool and my wall hangings. It’s full of items made by my family, too, which all provide inspiration. The tapestry cushion was made by my grandma, all my looms are made by my dad, the knitted cushion was made by my mum, and I also have a few bits made by some friends in there. We made the daybed and desk ourselves, and one of my favorite parts of the shed is the wool shelf because it makes everything so easy to access. It was also a lot of fun to make! When I am in the shed I feel serene being surrounded by all my favorite things, and the view from the window is also so calming. The only downfall is that the shed is not insulated, so it gets pretty cold and damp in there. My goal for the winter is to insulate it so I can use it year-round, and maybe even run an electrical cord down to it so I can have a little heater.

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My days are never really the same, so I don’t always get to work in my studio when I want to. I try to keep a routine, but it’s very tricky. If I’m in the studio but experiencing a creative block, I find it helps to look through inspiring books, go for a walk, or chat with my husband about the problem. He’s also a creative, so it is great to bounce ideas off each other. I try to keep my space clean and tidy, as I feel it helps with my process.

If I am still stuck for inspiration it can be helpful to visit Pinterest, but sometimes you can lose quite a bit of time to the internet, which always makes me feel guilty.

I think it’s so beneficial to have a dedicated studio space, but I don’t think it’s vital. Working from home can be a bit difficult sometimes because it’s hard to switch off, so it is great to have somewhere you can just shut the door and walk away from the distractions. If you want to create your own studio, don’t be intimidated. I set up my studio with very little money and quite a bit of DIY. I had a pretty good idea how I wanted it to look in the end, and it came out exactly as I had envisioned — I absolutely love it. 

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My Studio Playlist “Little Yellow Spider” by Devendra Banhart “My Old Man” by Mac DeMarco “Kewali” by Flamingods “Cut Me Down” by Kevin Morby “El Condor Pasa” by Simon & Garfunkel “Pink Moon” by Nick Drake “Actually” by Rozi Plain “Blind Willie” by Sonny Sharrock “The Ledge” by Fleetwood Mac “Shark Smile” by Big Thief

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Lucy Rowan spends her days playing with color and texture, creating beautiful weaves and decorative wonders.

Born without a sense of smell, she believes her sense of complementary colors has been heightened to compensate.

When Lucy isn’t crafting, she’s teaching others how to and can be found passing on her skills in workshops across the UK. To learn more, visit peasandneedles.co.uk and Instagram (@peasandneedles).

Photography by Lucy Rowan.

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Lost in

Thickets

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by Natalie Toms

At the bottom of my garden in the Cornish countryside, gently nestled in the wild hedgerow of alder, blackthorn, brambles, and birdsong, lies my small wooden artist studio named Thickets. Inside my studio I’m lost in my work and singing away as the sunlight floods in through the windows making pools of gold. I look up from my drawing board and over to the neighboring meadow where wild rabbits run through the long, windteased grass, a silent buzzard circles overhead, and the occasional glimpse of a fleeting deer or fox at dusk never fails to fill my heart with wonder. I have an affinity for the relationships between flora and fauna, and our beautiful changing seasons.

I’m a Cornish wildlife artist living and working in the village of Lanlivery in rural Cornwall. Inspired by the woods, fields, hedgerows, and rivers, I have been influenced by the natural world for as long as I can remember. I spent the summers of my childhood marveling at the world within the meadow behind my grandparents’ house.

I would set off down the garden with my sketchpad and pencils to find new hiding places where I could sit and wait for wildlife to emerge. From my garden studio, I now look out onto the very same meadow that filled my heart with so much joy as a child. 

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The journey that led me to create my studio was far from idyllic. In 2016, I was taken to the hospital due to pain in my abdomen. Expected to be appendicitis, I was operated on later that night. It turned out my appendix was not the cause of my pain but instead an undiagnosed form of IBD. This led the surgeons to remove a large area of my perforated colon and another section of my small intestine in order to save my life. It was later confirmed to be Crohn’s Disease. Over the next year, having Crohn’s meant I was struggling to hold down my busy job in retail, so I chose to leave for the flexibility and satisfaction of working for myself.

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By that time my studio was already underway as a self-converted summerhouse. Large windows face the sun as it makes its journey across the sky, offering me plenty of natural light while I work and views of the beautiful countryside. It’s insulated for the winter months and has doors that open wide during the summer. I recently reached the oneyear mark for my studio’s completion, and although I can’t claim self-employment has been without difficulty and some financial worry, I’ve never looked back.

My studio is the perfect habitat for my creative inspiration. There are pockets of dried foliage, fir cones, seedpods, and acorns; piles of old books, distressed wooden furniture, and found objects I’ve acquired over the years. It all settled in together as if it never belonged anywhere else. 

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My Studio Playlist “Thickets” by Patrick Wolf “The Underwood Typewriter” by Fionn Regan “Gethsemane” by Dry the River “White Winter Hymnal” by Fleet Foxes “Abacus” by Fionn Regan “The Gypsy King” by Patrick Wolf “One Day Like This” by Elbow “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + the Machine “Green Youth Great Plans” by Abi Wade “Simple X” by Andrew Bird

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Despite my best efforts, I’m more of a night owl than an early bird! I start in my studio midmorning, attend to emails, and then I continue to work on any current projects until late. As for the work itself, I’ve developed my own creative process over time. Once I know what I’m going to draw, I surround myself with the references I need in the form of nature books, online images, and my own photographs where possible. On cold-press watercolor paper, I sketch a detailed composition in pencil before I slowly begin to add the pen work. My drawing technique lies somewhere between stippling and Pointillism. I make small dots using colored brushtipped pens containing India ink. It’s a delicate and meticulous process that takes a very long time, sometimes over 100 hours per drawing! I sell my work as fine art prints and cards both online and in local shops and galleries. Most of my work takes

place at my desk. I also have another area for packing cards and wrapping any orders I receive.

I use only recyclable and biodegradable materials, even down to the tape! All of my clear card sleeves are made of compostable and biodegradable cornstarch, and I donate five percent from every sale to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust for their conservation work.

My studio space is often in flux as my business grows. I have plans to change the space at the back to create a small gallery wall for my mounted prints over the next few months. My advice to anyone looking to set up a creative space, whether it’s big or small, would be to give yourself a desk with enough space. Utilize all of the space you can for storage of your materials (I’m a bit of a hoarder when it comes to wooden drawers!), and allow for as much natural light as possible. Remember to surround yourself with what inspires you!

Inspired by the woods, fields, hedgerows, and rivers, Natalie Toms is a wildlife artist creating detailed drawings from her garden studio in rural Cornwall. To learn more about her and view her work, visit natalietoms.com, natalietomsartist.etsy.com, Facebook (natalietomsartist), and Instagram and Twitter (@thickets_studio).

Photography by Sarah Clement and Natalie Toms.

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Now Available

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INSIDE ISSUE 17: • Tammy Strobel of Rowdy Kittens shares why she broke up with social media and how it’s benefitting her life.

• A look at apps that add a little calm to your life.

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• Our readers share when they feel at their strongest.

• We talk about the milestones — both big and small — worth celebrating.

• One photographer shares why she doesn’t need to justify her work to anyone but herself.

• How to bring some self-care to the office.

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Bella Grace is available on newsstands September 1st. Look inside Issue 17, and reserve your copy at bellagracemagazine.com or by calling 1-877-782-6737.

Here’s to Growing &

to Being Me

by Verena Fay

I believe in dreams coming true. I believe in healing. I believe in an artist’s career. These beliefs became a reality for me in only four years. It all started when I was invited to a local exhibition in 2014, when I asked myself what I could contribute. I saw my chance and began to paint again after years away from art. The response to my paintings was just great.

Being an artist has been my ultimate life goal, but I made some circuits around it and pursued a lot of other creative missions, which step-by-step finally led me to my true self. Last year after my marriage broke up, I became even more true to myself by realizing another dream: my spacious studio. It is located on the ground floor of my house and I have been working in it for one year now.

I developed my studio during a time of personal growth when I was really starting to embark upon an artist’s career. It was another lifelong dream coming true, and I am so thrilled to have this light-flooded room only for myself.

Every morning when I enter my space, I feel like the luckiest woman on earth.

I breathe in all the good and breathe out gratitude. Every woman should have one room only for herself, regardless of the size. Freedom and happiness are packed into this room. In every single object in my studio, I see myself reflected not only through my creative output but also in the decor. I chose little treasures I adore and value that give me strength and support. 

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My studio has ceiling-high windows and doors with a view into my garden, which is my most precious source of inspiration. Daylight fills the room and gives me a feeling of being on vacation. When it is warm enough, I carry my materials outside onto the terrace and paint there ... it is pure bliss. The terrace is where I usually start the day with some stretching and a cup of tea and muesli.

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My studio is my creative zone where I can experiment with my painting style and also with my business. I hold workshops and retreats, so I have three tables that I can put together depending on what is needed. For workshops, we arrange a long table to give the attendees as much space as possible.

When I am working alone on something, I arrange the tables in a square form so I can use all parts of the desks from each side. When necessary, I separate one desk for a computer station. When I hold a retreat or give a healing session, I have enough space to fit in a thick square rug and create a silent room in my studio where we do meditation. Twice a year I do an open studio sale when the room gets flooded with a unique party atmosphere. ď ˇ

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Tips for

Hosting an Event

in Your Studio

• Decide on a name for the event. Clearly focus on what you want to teach and which souls you want to attract.

• Do not plan out the entire event to allow the energy to flow naturally, but do plan a general structure.

• Research accommodations near you and add it to your event price as an option.

• Provide clear directions to your studio and stay connected so guests can reach you.

Consider using a shuttle service, which you can organize with local friends.

• Prepare your studio with great love and provide all materials.

• Be your most open and authentic self to ensure your attendees get the most out of the experience.

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For storage I use shelves from the hardware store and a big dresser from Ikea, which creates a nice contrast of loft style and coziness. I love to create contrasts in my paintings and in my decor as well. I would never feel satisfied with only one style because I would feel I was missing an opportunity, and I love to see how different styles work together. Most of my latest paintings are stored openly in the room so I can see them, and sometimes one calls for another detail to be added or inspires a painting I am currently working on. To have an overview of my artwork soothes my soul in a natural way. I feel alive when seeing my creations; they reflect my emotions and my access to the world. ď ˇ

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Since setting up my studio, I have developed a work routine. I start in the early morning and work until noon. The afternoon is spent with my kids, and I’ll come back in the evening. One day I focus on painting, one day it is all about Instagram, filming, or editing, and one day is planning and organizing or experimenting on something new.

To nurture your own creative habit, create daily, even if it is only five minutes a day. Prepare a table where you can leave out the materials. Be sure to set aside a wall where you can display your creations.

As I have discovered, being able to see what you have been creating is healing and provides a point upon which you can build and go further. Do not judge anything you have made. Your hands have immense power, you just have to train them; once you start, you will see progress if you stay with it.

This is not a race ... this is your life. Materials may change, your style may change, your mind may change, but what stays is the consistency of making — do it with love and do it with passion.

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Verena Fay lives and works near the beautiful city of Salzburg in Austria. Educated as an architect, she gave up this profession after having three kids and moving back from Vienna to the countryside. After creating handmade jewelry and room accessories, she returned to painting, which healed her in a whole way. Verena integrates healing into her workshops, e-courses, retreats, and mentoring, as well as her custom and intuitive paintings. To learn more, visit verenafay.com, Instagram (@verenafay), Facebook (VerenaFay), and Pinterest (VerenaFayStudio), and get in touch at verenafaystudio@gmail.com.

Photography by Verena Fay.

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Just Between Artists

4 5 Way s to J ump - S tart

Your Creativity 1. I go into my studio every day at 10:30 in the morning, turn on some music, light a candle, sit on the floor, and drink my coffee. Then I stand up and begin.

— @reneedesigns

2.

I begin with a walk in the woods.

Refreshed by pure air, birdsong, and nature’s wonders, I return to my art studio. As my dog snores, I record “nature finds” through pen and watercolors.

— @pamholladayartist

3. I have my great-grandfather’s comfy old rocker in my studio, and I love to sit there and look at back issues of Belle Armoire Jewelry and Jewelry Affaire. I also go for a drive and let the beauty of the Ozarks inspire me!

— @lilrubyjewelry 4. I look through an album of pictures of art and nature that make my heart happy.

— @chrisdiz78

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5. When I have the time to really dive into work, I like to start with two blank surfaces: the “wife” and the “girlfriend,” and it’s always fun to see which one gets the most attention!

— @kristen.eghty 6. I clean up so everything is spick-and-span. I love a wellorganized studio that I can play in with abandon.

— @sandra_allan 7. I set an intention, breathe in for a few minutes, turn on some music and dance, and then paint some water onto the canvas or paper to connect. Things usually start to flow.

— @hobbyparentartist 8. I love the smell of fresh coffee-stained paper in the morning! With a huge stack of glorious paper, as well as a needle and thread, I can get utterly lost in the art of binding a new book.

— @nik.thebooksmith 9. I like to have a sketch of my plan the night before. When I wake up I have coffee, do yoga, and go for a run with the dog, and then I’m up to my cabin loft to greet the day. My mind is clear and excited to work.

— @pamelacarson

10. I limit my supplies and use materials or sizes I might not normally use. This gets me thinking outside of my rut.

— @azbellavida

11.

I just start! Just open a few sketchbooks, a few paints, and start painting. It almost always turns into something I can use somewhere else. A pattern or color combo emerges and I use it on a canvas.

— @tracy_eauclaire

12. I open the window, offer up my love and gratitude with sun salutations, and open my heart to receiving. I release the smell of mint from my potted mint plant, and then I put on a tune and lay into my charcoals on big paper with that song on repeat times three.

— @sherri_jean_mcculloch 13. I make a cup of tea, light a candle, turn on my vintage radio, and look closely at the work in progress on my studio wall. I’m currently finishing the #100daysnastywomen project, which has been a series of portraits focused on empowering women.

— @veronicafunk

14. Flipping

through vintage family photos and remembering warm memories. In creating my third Cool Classic Rides series, what inspires and keeps my creative juices in check is listening to wonderful memories that people share with me. Their car stories and photos keep my mojo in check! For me, art represents memories.

15. I take a few moments to do some yoga and just breathe.

— @lizgreigsypko 16. While coffee is brewing inside, I’m outside feeding the birds. It reminds me that like they need their food, I need my creative “food” too. No matter what ebb and flow life brings, my art is there to nourish me so I can live another day. Creation is that necessary to me.

— @kellypriceartist

17. I’m

most inspired after thumbing through a favorite magazine because it makes me want to put some color on a piece of paper or glue strips of scrap paper to a canvas. When I see what others are lovingly putting together to share with the world, pouring their hearts out and showing their love of art in their own way, I am inspired to get up, put on my big girl pants, and do something that makes me happy. It may not always be a masterpiece, but it always takes me to another place, away from the daily turmoil, and, on most occasions, just makes me smile.

— @lindamcain

18. I light my candles, prep my paintbrushes, canvases, and paints, play some country music, make a fresh pot of coffee, take a deep breath in, let it go, and begin.

— @sarahshineart

— @teresashippyccr

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19. Words

always inspire me, so I like to begin by finding a quote or poem that resonates with me in the moment. Then comes my favorite part of any art project: the gathering! I love to sift through my stash of vintage papers and old books, and choose the bits and pieces that make my heart sing. It’s such a joyful process turning pieces of the past into collages or handmade journals.

— @artfullyvintage 20. My best tool to date has been to jump in with no game plan: to work big with a lot of color and marks, and then break it down into smaller compositions that pique my interest. This exercise helps me to spew it all out on paper and then get down to business.

— @juliehamiltoncreative 21. I take a long walk on the beach, listening to the birds sing and the waves crash on shore. This always clears my head so when I get home I seem to have found my mojo.

— @kimmersjw 22. I go over my Art Journaling collection for inspiration (not lying!).

— @artfulshelley 23. I like to keep the brown kraft paper on my worktable as long as possible between projects because I usually have notes written all over it that serve as inspiration.

— @1imgirl

24. My

daughter, Sunshine, inspires me to create. Usually she’ll want to do something creative as well with me.

— @jackie.joice

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25. I often paint simple backdrops and then turn on some fantastic music, open my sketchbook, and look at the backdrops to see which speaks to me. Some days it’s quiet while others are loud.

— @claudiawrightson 26. I begin by asking myself what it is I want to let go of, and then I meditate on that. When I feel ready, I release it onto a canvas.

— @thecraftycutie 27. I leaf through boxes of family ephemera that I keep in my studio. Sometimes a random snapshot will find its way into my work or a random note scrawled to an unknown recipient becomes the basis for an invented back-story. This is how each piece of my narrative jewelry begins.

— @tkiplinger

28. I

give myself time to tidy up, daydream, and move things around. I find touching some of my favorite things helps open the door to creativity.

— @gerryburklow

29. Tidying up my craft room. I often find something I had forgotten about. I think about what inspired me to purchase it, and suddenly I am working on a project.

— @lesley11871 30. Sometimes reorganizing books, paints, paintbrushes, fabric, or thread is the start of getting motivated. Then I flip through books or search the web for a color combination or beautiful photos of faraway places that make my imagination go wild. Sometimes just having the window open and hearing the birds chirping in the morning or the crickets late at night makes for a nice start for creating.

— @annita808 31. I am energized by my hikes into the Adirondack woods.

I gather moss, lichen, stones, and driftwood. A really fun piece of wood could end up in anything from collage to jewelry. I am surrounded by God’s gifts for us to create with!

— @long_lake_native

32. I pamper myself: I shower, dress cute, make sure I have a manicure and pedicure, and put on my lipstick.

My mother, who sewed, always said if you don’t feel beautiful, it will show in your work.

— @branumcarol

33. I

love to work mostly at night.

When the rest of the world is busy dreaming, I paint my dreams in the silence, listening to the sounds of my brushstrokes.

— @roshinicrafts

34. Stillness comes before creativity. I begin with the practice of gratitude, allowing myself time for meditation through an elaborate doodle process: a combination of writing words and intentions, and making abstract nature sketches. Some days it’s easy, but often I push through the reality that life has big challenges. It’s my creative spirit that finds the balance, and from there I set up a couple canvases, choose my color palette, and allow the movement of my painting process to unfold.

— @carynlynn 35. I start each day by writing at least three pages in my journal, which is stream-of-consciousness. Then I end the entry with three things I hope to achieve that day and three affirmations. This process helps give clarity to my day and any project I am working on.

— @dmeiclark 36. I always go with a blind continuous line drawing when I need some creative oomph.

— @laurenoneillart 37. I have a three-step approach: honoring physical space, which can be as simple as cleaning my palette or tidying up my worktable; honoring mental space, which means I turn off social media just to quiet the outside world in order to listen to my own creative path; and honoring emotional space, because art heals me when I show up.

— @ginaleekim 38. I live and work out of a semi-truck in North Dakota, so all it takes is for the wheels to stop turning.

— @bernadine_nel

39. I usually jump-start my creativity by saying an affirmation. Then I start with a simple 10-minute art journal page to get my creativity flowing.

— @shemidixon 40. I clean my studio, trim my plants, and put on an audiobook.

— @mannmcreations 41. In my experience, the only way to get inspired is to get to work. I do a little exercise to get the juices flowing by allowing myself a maximum of 20 minutes to design and make a piece of jewelry. The quick pace keeps me intuitive and unattached to the final result.

— @versostudio 42. With three busy teenagers and a demanding job, I don’t have time to prepare to get creative. I just jump right into whatever is sitting on my desk, which is usually enough motivation and inspiration to let my mind wander on a page or a canvas and see what happens.

— @thetarnishedspoon 43. Taking part in challenges pushes me out of my comfort zone and forces me to produce something on a daily basis.

— @taniaahmed

44. I

love to start with journaling, sometimes just writing an affirmation or a mantra over and over again, covering the whole surface. Just like that, no more blank canvas! Plus, it creates interesting texture and infuses a beautiful energy into the work.

—@lalymille 45. As a full-time caregiver to my adult son, I am confined to my house for long lengths of time. I go to the flea market during warm weather and just bask in the sun. I walk around in quiet, listening to my music and visually appraise my surroundings. Sometimes I am looking for something specific, while other times I let my creative side take over as I evaluate the potential in items for art or just get inspired by what I see and feel.

— Kecia Frazee Deveney

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Stitch by Stitch

BY Miss Leela

Tucked away inside my home studio located in the beautiful Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, Australia, I while away my time pursuing my creative dreams. From this space I manage my handmade business, design and make patchwork quilts, and work on my miniature English paper-piecing designs. There is so much to explore in the mountains, and I find being amongst the bush very inspiring and soothing.

For as long as I can remember, creativity and making have always been a part of my life. I grew up an only child to two creative parents: my father, a hobby photographer, and an extremely crafty mother whose creative pursuits include embroidery, quilting, crochet, and knitting. As a child I enjoyed drawing, and throughout my teens I dabbled in paper crafts and cross-stitch, but it wasn’t until my 20s that I discovered my passion for patchwork quilting. Since finding my niche in miniature English paper piecing, a technique of patchwork that dates back to the 1800s, I haven’t looked back.

In 2013, I launched my business, Miss Leela Handmade.

I opened an Etsy shop to sell my miniature patchwork creations, patchwork quilts, crochet amigurumi, and my own range of paper pieces for use in English paper-piecing. Being creative and making with my hands is where my true passion lies. I enjoy making items that will be treasured for generation after generation. Each patchwork quilt, whether it’s at miniature or regular scale, is a labor of love. A lot of time goes into the creation of each piece. It is an absolute thrill to see the joy my items bring to their new owners. 

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My Favorite

Podcasts “Sew Sweet Violet” “Little Bobbins Knits” “Cherry Heart (Sandra Paul)” “Betsy Makes” “The Little Tailoress” “A Homespun House” Starting my own handmade business meant I needed a space where I could store my fabric stash, sewing equipment, and other crafty paraphernalia. Upon buying our first home with my now husband, I quickly turned the smallest bedroom into my own studio. Fastforward four years, after our wedding and the purchase of a larger family home, and I now have a studio that is three times larger than my first.

My studio is my haven. My time in here is spent running my handmade business, designing and making patchwork quilts, working on my miniature quilts, and other craft pursuits. I also record my podcast in my studio and occasionally have friends over to enjoy some making time and chatting.

We have a split-level home and my studio is on the lower level, in what would be the formal lounge area. The living areas are upstairs, so there is a nice segregation between where I work and where I spend time with my family. Being the first room you see when coming into our house, I feel that I need to keep it tidy at all times; that’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, as I prefer order to chaos when I’m creating.

As you enter my studio there is a large white timber dining table that I use to lay out my quilt projects. It is great for throwing out fabric selections to see what will work in a quilt design. At the end of the table I have a timber island bench I use as my cutting table, which is the perfect height for cutting out patchwork blocks, as there’s no need to bend over. Along one wall I have a row of bookcases to store craft books, magazines, yarn, and other crafty bits and pieces. Next to the bookcases I have three sets of drawers that store my fabric and wool stash. Above the drawers are shelves where my fabric scraps are stored in plastic boxes, sorted by color. My sewing and embroidery threads, as well as my paper-piecing shapes and projects, are also stored in compartment boxes and containers on these shelves. 

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“Loop and Bar” “Hey Sister Podcast” “Mandarine’s” “By the Lakeside”

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On the other side of my studio there are desks set up for my computer, cutting machine, and sewing machine. At the end of the room there is another storage unit where all of my styling props are kept.

Above this my miniature quilt wall hangings are displayed on the wall. There are also some picture ledges where my framed miniature quilts, personal items, and photos are displayed.

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When I was setting up my studio I wanted to create a light space that was welcoming and friendly. My studio has been decorated with collections of vintage knitting needles, yarn, flowers, and my miniature quilts. These items add color and joy to the space. A large window and sliding door lead out to a balcony where there is a table and chairs; this is a lovely place to sit and sew while looking out over the garden and bush beyond. There are family photos on display in my studio that remind me of where I come from. Something else that is very special to me is the yo-yo garland that hangs across my project box shelves. I made this garland as decoration for my wedding, so whenever I look at it I’m reminded of what a special and amazing day that was.

A day in my studio can vary depending on what projects I’m working on, what administrative work needs to be done, and what I need to restock in my shop. I don’t really follow a routine, as having a toddler at home generally means any kind of routine flies out the window! Generally, I try and do administrative work in the couple of hours when my daughter has her nap. Time in the morning and afternoon is then spent preparing paper packets for the shop, designing quilts, and sewing. I fit in a lot of making time at night after putting my daughter to bed. 

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Every day I’m inspired by my surroundings and the making community that I love being a part of. When I’m sewing or crocheting, I like to listen to knitting, crocheting, and sewing podcasts. I get so much inspiration from the amazing community of makers I follow on Instagram, as well as online resources such as Pinterest. Another big source of inspiration is going to local quilt and fiber festivals.

I also love flowers and get a lot of color inspiration from them.

One key factor to think about when designing your studio is storage. You need to have good storage to hold all your bits and pieces. Crafters are messy people and it goes without saying that we collect an enormous amount of craft supplies! Also keep in mind that you don’t need to spend a lot of money setting up your space. All my furniture was bought at a fair price from Ikea. Depending on the style of space you’re trying to create, you could decorate with upcycled furniture pieces from your local thrift shop, your garage, or your grandparents’ attic!

I believe it doesn’t really matter if you have a large studio or a small table inside a cupboard as your making space. If you want to set up a dedicated space for making, be creative — after all, it’s a space for you to create and realize your passion for your craft. Make your space inspiring and comfortable. You’re most likely going to spend every spare minute you can there, so decorate it with your favorite colors and items.

Your space should inspire you.

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Miss Leela lives with her husband, Tim, and their 2-year-old daughter, Matilda, along with their rescue cat, Tink, and miniature daschund, Indie. She’s been creating patchwork quilts and miniature patchwork artworks for over 10 years.

Her signature style is working in miniature English paper piecing, a method of patchwork that is completely hand sewn.

You can shop Miss Leela Handmade items in her Esty shop, missleelahandmade.etsy.com. Also check out her blog at missleela.com.au, and follow her on Instagram (@missleela_handmade) and Facebook (Miss-Leela-Handmade).

Photography by Miss Leela.

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Intention

It

S ta r t s W i t h

by Kim Klassen

It can be difficult to see the road ahead, but it’s always fascinating to look back and see, “Oh, yes … it was all meant to be.” Even the toughest stuff.

In 2013, my husband, John, was diagnosed with leukemia … this shook our world. John’s diagnosis swept us up and away from our tiny town to the city three hours from home.

Extreme chemotherapy, radiation, a stem-cell transplant, setbacks, recovery, and then, finally, eight months later, we were home. 

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The homecoming was bittersweet - a new normal. Gone were the days of just me, home alone, taking photos, recording photography classes, doing all the (uninterrupted) things I love. As an introvert I need quiet and more quiet. I thrive on silence. John was now at home, and I found myself desperate for a quiet space to create and longing for what once was.

Simply Rosie Photography

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My beautiful friend Xanthe Berkeley and I hosted a photography retreat in Huntington Beach, California, several months after John and I returned home. One day, we happened upon the most amazing shop, Petals and Pop Shop. (You must go if you are in the Seal Beach area — tell them I sent you!) It was in that beautiful shop that my studio dream found me. I envisioned a studio of my own, with ceiling-high bookshelves and beautiful things all around. Back at the beach house, reflecting on my day with Xanthe, I declared that I needed my own space — a studio to make and create in each day, maybe even a space for people to come and create with me. The idea was born.

My space didn’t always look like this. Before all the white and so much light, it was dark, cluttered, and even a bit sad. Before us this was an antique shop, and before that the local newspaper building. It had been for sale for some time, but I never considered it might be “the space.” The panelled walls, few windows, chopped-up rooms, and dingy floors didn’t exactly say “inspired.” In my head I thought it was way smaller than it actually was. 

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Xanthe Berkeley

Then it hit us. One regular day, John was out for a walk, and I was on the phone with my friend Aeleen talking about finding a studio space. Somehow the antique shop came up, and the next thing we were both Googling the real estate listing. I remember saying, “It’s so small and the ceilings are so low.” But Aeleen asked, “Are you sure?” as she read me the dimensions she found on Google. Almost in unison we exclaimed, “Is this the space? This might be it! I think this is it!”

We talked for a bit longer, and then I hung up because John wasn’t home yet. I wanted to check in and make sure he was OK. Minutes later, he walked through the door. “Where were you?” I asked him. “I was at the antique store — I think you should look at it. I think it could be your studio,” he said. While I was on the phone with Aeleen, John had been at the antique store talking about the space and square footage, measuring the ceiling height, and so on — full body chills. That was the beginning of all this.

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I started with a vision and then developed a plan.

I wanted a space I could shoot in, teach in, be inspired in. The big vision was an open space with white and light everywhere. The dreaming was the fun part, and then came the hard work — gutting the whole building down to the bones, and adding windows (a lot of windows), new doors, plank walls and floors, ceiling-high bookshelves, and more windows. Last, but most importantly, we applied white paint everywhere. Oh my word that was exciting. The white brought it all together … magic.

This old space was completely transformed. It wasn’t all fairy dust and unicorns — at times it was stressful and so much work. And, there were times I was met with a bit of resistance. “Kimmy, are you sure about all these windows and all this white? It might be too bright,” John asked one day. “I am 100 percent sure,” I assured him. And can I just say, I was right. Even the burliest of fellas who’ve come through the doors can’t help but pause and love this space. One contractor said it made him feel like he wanted to breathe a little slower. And so it happened … my studio was born. 

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With the studio five minutes from my home, I can now walk, bike, or drive to work, although it depends on the day and what I might be bringing to work with me. It’s been four years since we moved into the studio and it’s constantly evolving — moving this here or there and swapping out treasures. The space is filled with only the things I love, and that includes all my techy photography gear because I love it too. From antique cupboards I bought from the antique store years before to family heirlooms and salvaged pieces from an old family farm, oh the stories these pieces could tell. Recently we added a huge black canvas backdrop in the back area of the studio and we call it the darkroom, which has been a game-changer — oh my dark-and-moody-photography-loving heart. If I could do one thing over, it would be add more outlets — honestly, that’s about my only regret. How crazy lucky am I? 

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Honor your dreams — it’s amazing what happens when you are open to receive. If you are dreaming of a space, start first with the intention, and then be open to what might come. You may not find (or want) a big old building to transform, but perhaps a lovely spare room with beautiful light is just waiting to be cleared and painted all white.

Today, as I type this story, and every day, I give thanks for this space to create … to breathe, to be, to see the magic of photography everywhere I turn. Our cancer journey continues, but this is my refuge, this is my gift, and I am forever and always grateful.

Kim Klassen is a photographer/online teacher. She lives with her husband, John, and beautiful golden doodle, Ben, in a tiny prairie town in Manitoba, Canada. Visit Kim at kimklassen.com and on Instagram (@kimklassen).

Photography by Kim Klassen.

Aeleen Sclater

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In my studio …

… the first thing that strikes me is the light flooding in through the two large windows, the second thing is the sense of space. Here — in contrast to my cottage home — I have room to spread out, paint big if I want to, even walk around while the paint dries. My studio is in a Victorian cotton mill and still has the original wood floor and curved red brick window recesses. I’ve always had an interest in industrial architecture and there is something reassuring about creating in a space with such a rich heritage. It’s quiet too. Some days I have the radio on while I’m painting, otherwise the only sound is the rush of the river below the window.

— Judith Alsop Miles (@judithalsopmiles)

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An n i e’ s

Mystery C or n e r

by Annie Isa

I am a quiet soul who watches the mysterious world around me with curiosity, which I believe is what led me to creativity. I am a puppeteer, doll maker, and illustrator, but I have always been a maker and creator of strange things. I surround myself with the creatures that jump out of my imagination.

I moved to California about one year ago and had many obstacles to deal with: I needed a job and a place to stay, but I also knew I needed to do the thing I am really good at, so I found my tiny, lovely studio space and started fresh. At the beginning I only had my books and a handful of tools, but I have managed to build the studio space little by little. Now I own the most magical studio I could have ever dreamed of! ď ˇ

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For me, my studio is the safest place on earth, where I am free to bring my creatures to life.

I work in my studio every day, and the very first thing I do is make tea; the sound of the kettle is one of the loveliest sounds! I start with some reading, which I think is the bomb of inspiration, and I prefer classic novels and fairy tales. While working, I listen to audiobooks and the soundtracks of my favorite movies, as well as Mozart and Yann Tiersen, whose music acts like a bandage to a wounded soul.

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I have a vintage drafting table where I do most of my work; a cabinet full of my handmade art dolls, pieces of dolls, and books; and a secretary desk. For storage, I use some old wooden organizers I found at flea markets and local yard sales, which are great places to find beautiful pieces for a very fair price. One of my hobbies is to bike around my neighborhood on Sunday mornings to find yard sales. I also love old posters and have some of them on my walls for inspiration.

I make puppets, art dolls, illustrations, and even some unique jewelry. Since these art forms involve sculpting, sewing, sketching, woodworking, embroidery, and more, sometimes I need a bigger area to work in or I need more professional tools to make my wooden puppets. When that is the case, I pack my stuff and ride my bike to the nearest woodworking workshop.

I also have a corner in my studio just for packing Etsy orders. The process of creating and listing my pieces in my Etsy shop is an enchanting journey. When I finish making a piece, which sometimes takes days, I take artistic photographs that occasionally require going outdoors for natural lighting and a more professional result. Then I think about a unique name; I open my books randomly and read stories to find beautiful names, or sometimes I make up a name.

Writing the stories behind each piece makes them really special, so I do my best to come up with beautiful tales.

Finally, they sit in my Etsy shop waiting for adoption.

Each order is packed uniquely, and I always include beautiful notes and small handcrafted gifts for my buyers to thank them for their support and love. It makes my heart happy when people adopt my creations; indeed, it is the best feeling. There is a lot of love and effort put into each piece and I might even say a part of the creator’s soul; that is why handmade items have so much personality and spirit. ď ˇ

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My Favorite Stori e s for

Inspiration "Great Expectations"

by Charles Dickens "The Hunchback of Notre Dame"

by Victor Hugo "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë "Father Goriot" by Balzac "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes"

by Arthur Conan Doyle “The Little Match Girl”

by Hans Christian Anderson

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Studios are like rabbit holes — once you jump in them, you find yourself in a world where imagination rules everything! As far as I can remember, I have always had my very own corner to hide in and dream and create, even if it was only a small desk. To make your own corner, be creative and look at simple objects as if they can work magic, and make the best out of them.

I believe artists are witches with the power to breathe spirit into every piece they create and bring that magic into people’s homes. I am working hard to become a full-time artist so I can stay in my mystery studio corner every day, being creative and bringing more magic into the world.

Annie Isa lives in Glendale, California, and welcomes you to pop into her Etsy shop for some tea and giggles: anniesmysterycorner.etsy.com. To see her work-in-progress and new creations, visit Instagram (@annie.isa).

Annie welcomes email at annie.issa@yahoo.com.

Photography by Annie Isa.

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Bless the Theory

by charmaine vegas

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been creative. When I was a little girl, I had a moderate to severe stutter, so I was not comfortable expressing myself vocally; instead, I learned how to express myself with my hands.

Throughout my childhood I used my creativity for dreaming up new business ideas, regularly rearranging my bedroom, and taking my camera every day to high school to take pictures. I had no idea I was being creative … I was just doing what I liked.

I have always been a visual person. While studying fashion merchandising in college, I made beaded jewelry as a hobby. When I wanted to take it further and stretch my abilities, I enrolled in a metalsmithing class at Long Beach City College. I remember feeling intimidated yet curious and inspired, and I’ve learned those are telltale signs that you are on the right course of finding your passion. 

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inherstudiomagazine.com

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How I Overcome

Creative Ruts 1. Rearranging my studio and home.

2. Helping my artist friends in their studios.

3. Walking around my neighborhood and taking photomaps of textures and shadows.

4. Cleaning out social media.

5. Going out with friends and having fun, which is so important for the solo artist.

6. Putting on my favorite instrumental music and drawing lines to the melody. It warms up the hands, settles the mind, and allows ideas to surface (borrowed from my friend and artist Diana Wilson).

I currently create sculptural jewelry and tableware in my studio under the business name Bless the Theory. I am a full-time artist and sell my artwork through my website, in galleries, and in person at local art shows. Most of my work is influenced by flaws and disruptions, meaning I find inspiration all around me, but I find most of my inspiration in the human experience.

Lately, I’ve been looking to the streets and the urban landscape for direction, and I’ve become quite drawn to cracks and irregular shapes. It’s the most beautiful gift to be able to find beauty in the flawed!

My fiancé and I purchased a cute Spanish bungalow in 2015, and I created my studio in one-half of our humble garage. It is so nice to be able to walk a couple of feet in my pajamas with coffee in hand to go to work. It has always been my goal when arranging my studios (past and present) to create a space where I can think and experiment and work. My space must provide a landscape onto which I can empty my ideas. I tend to compartmentalize, so I enjoy having separate areas for certain tasks.

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Currently, my bench area allows me to research, design, and do detailing work, such as sawing, stone setting, and what not. My soldering station is a few feet away from my bench and is where all of my “hot workâ€? is done. Next to the soldering area is my sink and pickle pot where I patina, tumble, and clean my work. The only window in the studio is between the soldering and sink areas. It made the most sense to have these two stations there for ventilation reasons. To the left of my bench is my forming station, which is a 3' x 6' stand-up workbench with a solid wood top, which is great for tasks that require force. My forming area is one of the largest flat surfaces of the studio, so most of my studies/works-in-progress also live here. ď ˇ

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My current setup allows me to work in stages.

Having different areas for different tasks enables me to leave my thoughts and works-in-progress where they are (until they are ready for next steps) without the pressure, or need, to clean them up in order to move forward with something else.

Working out of a structure built in 1920 that was intended to house a car has provided some challenges, such as a lack of light and ventilation.

The garage doesn’t receive a lot of natural light, so I painted the space white to help brighten it up a bit. I would love to add a few more windows for light and ventilation, and adding drywall to the garage would allow me to spread out a bit more.

When working in the studio, routines and schedules are aspects I am forever playing with.

Fitness and posture are very important to me, so I only allow myself four to six hours of bench time per day. I only have one body and I must take care of it as best I can. While some artists can sit and work for 10–14 hours straight, it simply does not benefit my work, my body, or my mind. I’ve learned to break up my day according to different tasks. I usually begin my day on the computer, going through my website and blog, answering emails, and planning my day. Then I’ll spend a few hours standing and forming, and finish with a few hours of sitting doing bench work.

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I recently got back into doing shows after taking a year off. Doing shows can be a lot of work and a bit exhausting, but they are a great way to get out there and meet new collectors, catch up with current collectors, and show new work you may not have on your website. I have my show preparations down to a science now. Ideally, I give myself two to three months to build inventory. The last two days before a show, I try not to make any more jewelry so I can focus on displays and my overall setup, which is my favorite part! I have a checklist I made for my very first show and I add to it each year. I go through this list leading up to the show, even if I think I already know what to bring. I pack everything in clear containers that are labeled so I can see everything. When I’m in the middle of a show, I find myself rummaging through my supplies and inventory a lot, so clear and labeled containers helps me out.

There are a few pieces of advice I think are important for anyone setting up a studio. White walls make any space feel fresh, clean, and larger than it actually is. If your space doesn’t get much natural light like mine, you’ll for sure want to do this! Also, white walls won’t get in the way of your artwork. I work with metal, and the wall color would reflect off its surface. Drawers and cabinets are a great way to stay organized without cluttering up your studio. For jewelry artists, keep your works-in-progress in 6" x 8" stackable trays. You can spread them out to see what you’re working on, and stack them together when you need more space (advice borrowed from my college professor, friend, and artist Kristen Beeler). Lastly, you don’t have to have a traditional bench, desk, or table; think of other objects that may suit your unique needs.

Most importantly, by stretching your imagination you can create wherever you are!

Charmaine Vegas is the jewelry artist and metalsmith behind Bless the Theory. She is based out of North Long Beach, California. You can learn more about Charmaine and her work at blesstheheory.com. She shares glimpses of her day-to-day studio life and inspiration on Instagram (@blessthetheory). If you have any inquiries or just want to talk about being an artist in this world, she can be reached at blessthetheory@gmail.com.

Photography by Charmaine Vegas.

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Eclectic

In One Word …

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autumn 2018

by Krystal Lee

I’m a multi-disciplinary artist and illustrator. I studied painting/drawing at university, and majored in illustration for my honors degree. My artworks range from watercolor prints and illustrations to blind contour drawings and cut paper works, amongst other things. I made the decision to return to full-time study when I was 28, but when I started my degree everything changed — my art completely took over.

While I had never thought of myself as academic, I just couldn’t get enough of university. I feel like I really came into my own there, and it absolutely cemented art in my life.

I’ve always had a space for creating, but once my husband and I bought our home together I was able to really set up a full working studio. Our home is a 1950s weatherboard cottage that we are currently renovating, and I have converted one of the bedrooms and the adjoining sunroom into my studio. I’ve been in this setup for around two years now and it has worked wonders for my creativity and my business. 

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I would describe my space as eclectic with a strong vintage vibe. I am a collector, so there is a slight hoarder vibe going on too: feathers, scissors, keys, and old card files, bulldog clips, and ledgers, as I’m quite obsessed with vintage office items. I have a gorgeous vintage hole-puncher that weighs a ton and has a place of pride in my studio. There’s a lot of dark timber, piles of books and papers, and jars of paintbrushes and pencils. I’m also partial to wildflowers, seedpods, crystals, and little natural objects, so they can always be found amongst my things. There is usually a layer of pencil shavings and paint palettes too! It’s quite a mess, really, but it’s the good kind of mess that feels worked-in and relaxed. For me, my studio space needs to be a perfect balance of practicality and aesthetic.

I draw so much inspiration from the objects I surround myself with that as practical as a space might be, I’m just not going to use it if I’m not surrounded by the things I love.

Having two spaces is perfect, as I am able to work quite differently in each area. One room is for the messy creative stuff with two antique Blackwood tables I use as workspaces, a drying rack, shelves holding all my materials, and folios of papers. The other space I use for the less messy business side of things: signing prints, sorting artworks, packing, and posting. It’s where I store my prints, keep lists of my to-do’s, and I will quite often work on my paper cutting in this space too, as it’s less likely to have smudges of charcoal around! Having these two spaces has really defined the areas needed for the different aspects in running a creative business and has helped streamline my daily practice.

My studio was set up with little to no budget. The tables were inherited, and I have a shelf of racks on wheels that I bought from a local baker for $30; they were once used for loaves of bread after they came out of the oven, and now they’re perfect to hold my paintings while they dry. I also wanted a drafting table, so I converted one of the Blackwood tables into one by adding some props and hinges. I think the only thing I have bought new is my industrial-style desk lamp, but in terms of everything else, it’s either secondhand, gifted, or repurposed. All of my budget goes into buying paper and materials! 

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On days when my ideas are running slowly or I’m in between projects, or when other day-to-day tasks start to take over, I like to schedule studio time so I’m not just sitting around waiting for inspiration to hit or being pulled in too many directions. Once I’m immersed in my work though, the schedule falls away into a more natural routine where the act of creating takes over. Those are my favorite kind of studio days — when everything else falls away and I can be at my most creative and productive.

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Although I don’t manage my time as such, I do try to manage where my headspace is. I can get quite single-minded and restrictive about my work, so as a way to stay open and explorative, I try to have a few projects going on at any given time that I divide into three areas: business, passion, and a side project. I find this helps me tick all the boxes that keep me fulfilled as an artist. I also use a daily planner.

On Sunday evenings I like to set out a rough guide of what I want to achieve during the week, and I also revisit this at the end of every day.

I use it throughout the day to write down any orders that need to go out, emails I need to send, materials that are getting low, etc. I also use my sketchbooks for when any ideas pop into my head; I have ideas flying around most of the time, and if I don’t get them down I lose them. It’s really just about getting it out of my head and onto paper.

It’s a solid practice that keeps me feeling grounded and also grants me the freedom needed for when my work takes over.

On any given day you can find me waking up early, flitting between both spaces with my pup, Rudy, following me, and a cup of coffee in my hand. If I need to organize orders or do any administrative tasks, I like to get them done in the morning so it frees up my time later. If I’m straight into the studio, I will usually start with a few blind contour drawings and then move on to whatever it is I have planned. I like to put on some music or a podcast, or when I’m in the middle of a large project I like to put on a TV series in the background and just let the episodes run. In between painting and drawing, I’ll make sure to meditate, Rudy and I will take a walk along the river, and I usually have a few visits a week from family and friends who drop by for coffee. Regular activities also include taking photos of any works-in-progress, posting to Instagram, placing orders with my printers, and working on ideas in my sketchbook. 

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My Top 10 Favorite

Studio Songs “Chandelier” by Sia “Handle With Care” by Traveling Wilburys “Runaway Train” by Soul Asylum “What if God was One of Us?” by Joan Osborne “You get What You Give” by New Radicals “It’s all About Soul” by Billy Joel “Free Falling” by Tom Petty “Wuthering Heights” by Kate Bush “Dancing in the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton

Having a dedicated studio space is amazing, but some of my most creative moments have been when I’ve had my work spread out on the floor in my living room or while propped up in bed with a coffee and a sketchbook in my hand.

I feel very privileged to have the space that I do, but I know that without it I would still create.

Don’t let not having a dedicated space be what stops you from creating.

Krystal Lee is a multi-disciplinary artist who works from her home studio in Australia. Her works range from whimsical watercolors to crisp white paper cuts and smudgy drawings. She loves nothing more than being surrounded by jars of paintbrushes, vintage books, and pencil shavings, with her pup, Rudy, at her feet.

Her works can be found at krystalleeartist.com and on Instagram (@krystal_lee_artist) and Facebook (Krystal Lee Artist). She welcomes email at hello@krystalleeartist.com.

Photography by Krystal Lee.

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In my studio …

… there are windows that let in an abundance of light — I think that is the most important part of the space for me. My studio is in my 1922 cottage bungalow fixer-upper. When I first entered it two years ago, it had old, yellowed floral wallpaper, worn-out orange carpeting, and room-darkening drapes. The house hadn’t been lived in for over a year, and it had that closed and forgotten smell. I pulled back the drapes and morning sunlight filled the room.

I was way past eager to set up another sanctuary or, as some call it, studio. I got busy, stripped the old wallpaper, painted the walls a warm white, pulled up the old carpeting, and sanded the beautiful wood floors. Ah, sanctuary, I was on my way to being centered again.

— Cindy Riccardelli (@cindyriccardelli)

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Just Between Artists

20 Tips for

Creating in a Small Space 1. Create a kit containing your favorite tools and materials in a vintage suitcase, tote, basket, or box. Something you can quickly grab when you’re ready to work and easily stow away when you’re finished!

— @artfullyvintage

2. Don’t just equip your space; fill it with your style and things of your heart.

— @keerslindy

3. Open shelving! Putting things away in cabinets and closets may look neater, but I could never find anything.

— @spidermommy

4. It’s the same advice for living, and it’s so hard, but it’s the real key to happiness: Bloom where you’re planted!

— @ochervelvet

5. All you need is a table of your own, even if it’s a tray table.

— @thecircleofgratitude 6. Vertical storage!

— @hobbyparentartist

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7. Use both open and closed storage containers, as those that are all open can be visually busy and a bit too stimulating.

Remember, small can be calming.

— @inspiromixedmedia 8. I live in a tiny 22-foot camper and use my dining table for art. My supplies are in pretty tins and containers from thrift stores and dollar stores. I leave most things out, but I have a small metal locker for storing art supplies that fits under my table.

— @pamaries52

9. Have a place for everything, keep all your bits ’n bobs on display so you can use them easily, and use a tray to hold your current project so you can take it to the lounge room or the veranda whenever the mood hits.

— @bitsabliss3 10. Organization is the key — everything at your fingertips!

And good music!

— @susanne2255

11. Keep your table neat, have two or three bins or bags nearby to throw away garbage or recyclables, and save leftover papers for future projects. Good lighting and air circulation are also important, and a comfortable seat is vital for a small area.

16. Pick a space where the light inspires you, gather 5–10 of your favorite art supplies so you are not overwhelmed, and then play.

12. My studio was a sailboat for years, but now I’m a landlubber with what I think is a very big space. No matter where you are, it’s what’s inside that counts.

— @dlarsonpaints

18. I have moved to using more open and transparent storage. I need to see it, or I forget I have it. It is also more inspiring to see all the colors.

— @dollysfollie

13. Surround yourself with beauty … always.

— @kathifogleman

19. Begin with what you have, no matter how little that may seem to be or how imperfect it may appear. Make it yours and only yours … your safe place!

Also make a portable studio for those creative journeys on the fly. Be satisfied to begin with whatever you have, because gratitude makes all creative things bloom.

— @helencdjamieson

14. All you need is a small wooden table with a drawer containing a box of watercolors, your favorite paintbrush, a small porcelain glass for water resting on the desk, a fern, old sheets of paper yellowed by time, a small fountain that relaxes the mind, and a window where beautiful light shines through.

— @lucyoak_art 15. Fill it only with things you love to keep the energy of the space flowing, and you will be more likely to create.

— @jennpipe

— @pattyfahlstrom

17. The key is to create a haven, an escape, in whatever style speaks to you. Although small, fill it with the things you love, and then allow your creativity to flow.

— Elizabeth Sharp

— @somefromnone 20. No matter the size, make it a space you love and are happy to be in.

— @li.la.o

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A Feminine Room of My Own

by Jo-Anne Coletti

I’m a rose artist, photographer, and writer for decor magazines, and I own a business and online shop called Vintage Rose Collection. I found my passion more than 25 years ago in the form of a simple rose painting, and it has led me on a path of joy and self-expression, all while giving me a sense of purpose. ď ˇ

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That first simple rose painting was my attempt at finding a creative outlet after my son was born. In the beginning, I allowed myself the freedom to just paint.

It was a time of trial, error, and experimentation.

I started painting roses in journals, then on canvases, and, as my confidence grew, I even painted on the walls and stairways of my home. Roses are the core of everything that inspires me and have paved the path to writing my how-to book, “Painting Roses,” as well as the development of my own collection of fabrics, pillows, tea towels, gift wrap, floral boxes, rose tassels, calendars, note cards, and flower crowns created from my original rose artwork.

The charming New England town of Marshfield, Massachusetts, is where I call home. Within my historic 1820s Federal Colonial home you will find my art studio, which was once a horse and carriage barn built in 1850. My design philosophy for my studio is simple beauty and serenity above extravagance and expense — and then crown it all with roses! My studio began with a dream: a romantic room where I would paint and create, that was relaxed yet beautiful. My vision was simple and relied on only three layers. 

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First, I began with a foundation of white. The walls, floors, trim work, and doors were all given a coat of pristine white paint, Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore. It’s a bright, clean white with very little yellow or gray undertones. My second layer was furnishings and accessories, comprised of salvaged treasures in hues of blushing pinks, grays, and soft pastels. My desktop was fashioned from an old door and mounted upon a pair of trestles from Ikea. A French-style chair was a HomeGoods purchase, accompanied by a white-and-gold floral area rug that ties in beautifully with the gold accessories. A built-in wall cupboard displays glass jars, pitchers, white storage boxes, and wooden crates, while a vintage French writing desk provides a charming and functional worktop. Lastly, little bouquets top it all off and they don’t have to be fancy — a single bud here and there will do. 

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To Create Your own Space ‌ VV Set aside an area in your home for your studio; it could be an entire room or something as simple as a light-filled corner.

Make the space your own — a special sanctuary that beckons you to come and create.

VV Set up your supplies so they are ready to go; if your studio is convenient and welcoming, you will invariably be tempted to sit down and begin creating.

VV To keep the ideas flowing, create an inspiration board and fill it with favorite images. I collect antique drawings, old postcards, and photos from my garden, as well as fabric swatches, papers, and ribbons for color ideas.

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Jo-Anne Coletti has been the wife of an amazing man for 26 years and they have two grown sons as well as an adopted Yorkshire terrier, Jessy. She is an author, artist, photographer, and writer for decor magazines, and absolutely loves what she does! Jo-Anne’s vintage-style rose paintings appear on her product line. She is the author of five books: “The Feminine Home,” “Where the Heart Is,” “The Quiet Hour,” “How to Paint Roses,” and “My Journey to Romance.” Her products and books are available on her website, vintagerosecollection.com. Follow Jo-Anne on her blog, vintagerosecollection.com/wp, and Instagram (@joannecoletti), or contact her at vintagerosecollection@comcast.net.

Photography by Jo-Anne Coletti.

When I sit down to paint, I like to create an inviting and soothing environment. I light a candle, place fresh flowers nearby, and play soothing music of waterfalls and birds. It is these little touches that bring me to a place of stillness and I am better able to let go of the stresses of daily life and focus on my painting.

There are many ways of articulating creativity and I don’t limit myself to only one form of expression. Photography, writing, and interior decorating have become as fulfilling as painting. Living an artful life is so rewarding for the soul — it is as essential to the human spirit as air itself. I relish the time I spend in my studio. It is my enchantment and a place of separateness where I can create — where I can be an artist!

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Brandee Barr Brown

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Little Nomad: : Knotted With Love

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autumn 2018

by Olivia Steward

The creative process and working with my hands have always been part of my life. For me, it is my looking glass, my rabbit hole, an escape of sorts. I believe we were all born with gifts and abilities, a desire to create in a variety of ways, and each with different appreciations of beauty that come from our Creator.

If we all liked and admired the same things, produced and constructed things the same way, the world would be a very dull and boring place. From the immeasurable beauty of Indian colors and fabrics to monumental European architecture, our unique personalities and cultures shape how we create art and view the beauty around us.

I have always loved drawing, painting, and music, and at age 13 art class quickly became my favorite subject.

At 14, our teacher had great faith in our small class and gave us a university-level assignment of creating a painted canvas with a large pencil portrait on top. This assignment sparked a new love, and I quickly began honing my skills in portrait drawings. I did commission work for friends and art shows, and learned every shading and drawing technique I could find in my spare time.

During this time, I was also taking classical piano lessons, and to this day my piano teacher is still one of my biggest role models. At 15, I had mountains of homework that occupied me until 10 p.m. with only a supper break, so I had no time to pursue the things I was actually interested in like art and music. My mood was greatly affected by this and I knew things needed to change. My boyfriend at the time (now my husband) had been homeschooled most of his school years and had a very good experience with it, so I decided to homeschool my last two years — I felt like I could finally breathe. I was able to do my academic subjects in the morning, my art and music excelled quickly, and I even had a part-time job. ď ˇ

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Fast-forward a few years and I am now married to the love of my life, Seth. I’m a stay-at-home mom with an energetic little toddler named Zebulun and a new baby due in November. Life is busy to say the least, but it is the best kind of busy with full hearts, happy tears, and intentional living.

I discovered macramé as a way to release some creative energy apart from my other work and mothering duties. I’ve always had a love for home decor, and my own mother has been the biggest inspiration for my creative pursuits. She would constantly be rearranging furniture, switching out decor, and striving to make our house a home. She has a great sense of style in general, and we had the best fun shopping together.

She would always encourage me to wear things a little out of my comfort zone when it came to color and patterns. As my biggest fan and encourager, she has covered her house with my artwork, giving me confidence in my work that I still carry to this day.

My first macramé pieces were made with acrylic yarn, a few wooden beads, and basic knots that were not even true macramé knots. I posted a couple pictures, and some friends quickly said they wanted my work.

I had about four custom orders in the first month or two of trying it out, so I began learning new knots and techniques. I quickly fell in love with the variety and creativity of macramé, and was so inspired by the intricate patterns and designs people were creating. I began experimenting with different materials, and did my first custom weaving about six months in; it was so big my husband and I had to construct a giant folding loom. I enjoyed the process immensely but eventually found myself gravitating toward macramé more than weaving. I found I could get a sense of accomplishment faster with macramé, as weaving is a more drawn-out process, but I still highly appreciate the work that goes into weaving patterns just as much.

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My Studio

Playlist For a relaxed, no-stress environment, my favorite artists to listen to are: Jon Bryant Lauv George Ezra Young the Giant The Lumineers

I had my weaving and macramĂŠ supplies spread out in different rooms in our house until I decided to make my studio in our back room. It is spacious with a lot of natural light, making it perfect for daytime knotting. The things in my studio have come mostly out of necessity. I used a bookshelf I already had for storage, the loom placed beside the bookshelf is perfect for other projects as well as displaying items, and I keep my branches in a wicker basket tucked in the corner of the room. I made a display for an upcoming market out of PVC pipe spray-painted copper that stands in my studio secured to two wooden blocks. A chair below the window with a cozy sheepskin and pillow make it feel very relaxed and not too office-like. I want the room to feel welcoming and tranquil with a little bohemian flair. ď ˇ

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My favorite items in my studio are my collection of tins I have received as gifts, in which I keep my scrap cotton and handmade pom-poms for later use. My other special item would be my framed portrait drawing of a girl that I spent hours and hours on, pouring over every detail. I keep it there to remind myself to keep pushing my personal boundaries and of the different aspects of art I enjoy.

Having structure and routine is important as a mom, so as an artist I like to give myself the freedom of not having a lot of structure in my work. I get inspired by many different things and allow my excitement to lead me in my projects. I love to follow other macramĂŠ artists on social media as well as home designers to get inspiration for new ideas. When I see something I absolutely love, particularly a macramĂŠ piece, I will usually take an aspect of the design that inspires me and make it into my own design. As an artist, I understand the dilemma and concern of having your work copied, and I understand the time and effort that goes into creating a design that is completely your own. Even though the knots that make up macramĂŠ work are the same, I love the variation it allows with each design.

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When experiencing a creative block, I will usually give myself a bit of time to refresh my brain and look for inspiration from other artists. I find learning a new technique and putting it to use on a larger piece is a great way to find inspiration. Working on smaller projects in between large pieces is another great way to just keep the creative juices flowing. I am a huge advocate for allowing yourself to have time for rest and rejuvenation, as any work can become uninteresting after too long.

Having a perfectionist attitude toward my art has been difficult at times, but it has also allowed me to push my boundaries and not settle with what I thought was mediocre. I have come to realize that no matter your art form, there will always be someone a step ahead and with much more skill; but, if you put 100 percent into your work and you are completely satisfied, nobody can take that away from you.

Olivia Steward is a wife, momma, and creative soul who enjoys art and creativity in many aspects of her life. The name “Little Nomad� comes from the idea that this world is not her home and she is a hopeless wanderer without the grounding grace and love of God in her life. You can find Olivia on Etsy, littlenomadco.etsy.com, Facebook (o.s.littlenomad), and Instagram (@o.s.littlenomad).

Photography by Olivia Steward.

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Creative Confessions

What is your number-one obstacle to studio time?

How do you manage it?

Sarah dungan Sticking to a productive, balanced routine. Since I work alone, motivating myself to stay on track is a big obstacle. I’m still figuring out how to manage my workflow, but deadlines are always a very big help.

Miss Leela Working full time as an interior designer four days a week as well as running and maintaining our house are my biggest obstacles. I dedicate one-and-a-half days a week to studio time and working on my business. Sunday is family day and when I work on personal projects.

Lucy Rowan Spending my time on Pinterest and Instagram. I try to justify it by calling it research, but really I am just procrastinating. I try to limit myself and walk away, otherwise the day will just fly by.

Photo by Jo-Anne Coletti

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Roben-Marie Smith Fear! Sometimes I fear that I won’t be able to create or I will be stuck and get frustrated. It is easier to not try, and I have to overcome this by lowering my expectations, reflecting on the things I have created, and remembering I have overcome this fear in the past.

Melissa Giglio If I don’t have a list of what to work on, I can get easily distracted by social media. I have to make a conscious effort to have a plan in place so I stay the course.

Natalie Toms My health problems. Some days are better than others, but it certainly requires a change of pace, which I then make up for when I’m feeling well.

Olivia Steward Being a stay-at-home mom. My studio is in our house and my son needs me for most of the day, which means I probably only get in a couple really productive days with my macramé. Even though it’s an obstacle when it comes to my business, I don’t see it as a bad thing. I want my family to know they come first.

Verena Fay As every artist mum knows, managing the daily routines with the kids and also getting focused studio time is a struggle.

Bethany Holmes The administrative side of my business can restrict the time I spend painting. I have to discipline myself and block-out sessions of time to do this.

Annie Isa Because my studio is tiny, I have to move my furniture when working on bigger projects, which takes a lot of my time.

I have put small wheels under some pieces of furniture to make it easier to move.

Anna Deakin Juggling the needs of my four children and responsibilities at the farm with my making time. Some processes I use are time-constrained, so if I don’t complete the process in one sitting, the piece becomes ruined. I keep multiple pieces at different stages of the making process so if I only have half an hour, I can work on something smaller. If I have three hours, I can make more complex items.

Charmaine Vegas Actually sitting down at my bench. My studio is at home, so it is easy to get distracted by “home stuff.” I’ve made it a habit to block-out studio time in my planner. I check my planner every morning, and seeing that obligation in ink helps me. Giving myself set hours to be at my bench also makes it easy to decline midday “hang-out” invites.

Krystal Lee My own mind, because I can over-think anything. There is definitely a time and a place for it within my studio practice, but sometimes you’ve just got to get in and do it. More often than not, you will find out pretty quickly whether you are on the right track.

Kim Klassen Family obligation. My husband’s been on a long journey with his health, and we have spent weeks and months away from home since the initial diagnosis. When I am home and my husband is well, I am in the studio. A full-time job is not an option for me, but the work I do in my studio is our family business. I’m so grateful to do what I love.

Elizaveta Rukavishnikova Unexpected visitors. I put a note on my door with my phone number so they can make an appointment.

Robin Mead When others are in the house it’s very hard to break away and let loose in the studio.

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Newfound Freedom Through a Studio Redesign

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autumn 2018

by Roben-Marie Smith

Two years ago I found myself sitting at my art table distraught because my studio had become a crowded and oppressive space that stifled my creativity. It was time to drastically change my surroundings. Redesigning my studio resulted in welcoming colors, functional organization, and an invitation to show up and stay awhile.

There’s an old saying that a messy work space is a sure sign of genius, and thinking that way got me through many projects. I would jump into new endeavors with passion before really recovering from my finished ones, but it was OK because, after all, I was creating!

I thought, who has time to clean?

After thinking about how I feel when things are out of place, I realized my enthusiasm to create and the spontaneity of my ideas were lagging behind my desire to start new projects. I dreaded going into my studio space because there wasn’t room to work, and the time it would take to clear a surface was too stressful to deal with. I was weighed down by the disorder while thinking it didn’t matter, but at the same time, at the back of my mind, I wished my space inspired me and wasn’t such a mess. 

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Flea Market Shopping List

These are some of the pieces I hunt for at flea markets, yard sales, thrift shops, and antique malls for organizing my supplies: Wooden boxes Vintage colanders Large ceramic bowls Picnic baskets Hat boxes Old sewing machine cabinet drawers Pitchers Utensil organizers Baskets Glass jars

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My studio overhaul took five months to discover the right blend of form and function as well as a complete purging of supplies that were no longer relevant to the artist I am today.

Paring down was daunting, but it resulted in a defined space where inspiring ideas could form. Large dressers provide closed, organized storage, with the drawers allowing me to sort my favorite supplies in a way that fits my workflow. My most used supplies are stored in woven baskets, pottery mugs, beautiful bowls, and antique boxes that often change to keep revolving colors and textures within sight.

Natural light floods in through windows that frame a water view, accented by boldly hued curtains I created from a Kantha quilt that offer texture and a splash of vivid color.

Having a studio table where I can leave out ongoing projects to work on as time allows keeps the flow going. Oftentimes walking away from a piece gives you the chance to view it with new eyes. I find that cleaning up your area after each project offers a blank slate to begin anew.

Nothing is more tempting than a clean art space ready for your next idea. ď ˇ

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I prefer spontaneity in my daily schedule rather than routine. After years of trial and error, it became evident that my workflow responds best to inspiration — an idea sparks and work begins. Creative blocks are overcome best by doing. A favorite warm-up is to create messy papers with no expectations: Paint, a brayer, and a gel plate create prints that can be used for collage fodder, mail art, and journal covers. Showing up and experimenting with no preconceived requirements are all it takes for me to overcome stumbling blocks.

To me, inspiration exists everywhere I look. My favorites are home decor, clothing catalogues, packaging, and nature. Traveling to and photographing new locations can provide new color combinations, textured patterns, and lovely compositions; snap away and build your own library of ideas you can draw from for new work.

Having a room just for art is not necessary to provide an inspiring setup. I did not always have a dedicated art studio. My dining room table was my workspace for several years. The key to creating is to have a kit with the basics on hand to grab and go. An art kit should be well-stocked with your must-haves, but don’t overwhelm yourself with a ton of choices; keep it simple, keep it stocked, and keep it accessible.

My current art clearly reflects the change in my creative space. New colors have emerged and white space abounds as my environmental changes have created a newly discovered sense of freedom, leading me in untraveled directions.

Being in this space is peaceful and joyful — two words never associated with my former room.

I am reminded of a quote by Cynthia Rowley: “I’ve got a theory: If you love your work space, you’ll love your work a little more.”

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Roben-Marie Smith provides ideas, inspiration, and quality instruction for hobbyists and art entrepreneurs. She teaches artists, from beginners to those making a living from their art, through her blog and popular online workshops. As an artist, educator, and woman of faith, her mission is to serve others and help them get the most out of their art as a hobby or as a business. Roben-Marie has been a working artist for the last 15 years and is self-taught, so she believes anyone can cultivate their creative spark. To learn more, visit robenmarie.com, Instagram and Twitter (@robenmarie), Facebook (robenmarieart), and Pinterest (robenmarie/boards).

Photography by Rachel Estrada Photography.

In our studio …

… we are part of a Creative Arts Hub, and the door is open to the rest of the community.

Being part of such an environment means we can bounce ideas off other creatives with different viewpoints, giving us the opportunity to see our own work from an alternate perspective and helping us better develop new project ideas. Color plays a very big part in all of our work, and our love of weaving means we surround ourselves with color — mostly yarn in skeins, on cones, or in balls. A simple swatch of color or a combination seen on the shelves can spark fresh creativity in both of us. We both bring different influences to the table, but have found over the years that our individual tastes work together in a very complementary fashion.

— Janet & Samina of Juko Designs (@jukodesigns)

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A Studio DIY

Fresh Cargo: Stu d io Aprons by kathleen lauth

As a lifelong seamstress, I’ve spent a good deal of time in the studio designing clothing and refashioning discarded pieces. Working in my sewing studio, I discovered that when I donned a work apron, it allowed me to really get professional and focused. As I went through a few apron trials, I struck on an idea for making the most practical (all those pockets!), comfortable, and attractive work apron. These aprons are made from cargo shorts and capris, which are available from your discarded clothing pile at home or from thrift stores. While the cotton fabric they’re constructed of is super sturdy, it’s also light enough to easily handle on your sewing machine. The garment itself also supplies buttons, trim, and ties you can use. These aprons are as figure-flattering as they are utilitarian.

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Sup p li e s

• Basic sewing supplies • Dress form (optional) • Repurposed cargo shorts/ pants/capris • Seam binding tape (optional)

T e chn iq u e

Choose cargos with as many “bells and whistles” (pockets, drawstrings, etc.) as possible.

Cut open the inside leg seam along the seam line, separating the front from the back.

Fold each out flat and draw an angled line on each side from the waistline to the hemline, including the side pocket, and cut. Sometimes a little fudging on the angles is required so you don’t lose any part of that side pocket. On the remainder of the back of the shorts, mark the line where you will cut across for the bib. Cut, removing the back legs, and sew the curving seam down by tucking the excess under so it will lay flat. Pin this bib section to the front waistline and gather if required for a nice fit. Using the leftover back leg portions, tuck one into the V-shape created when you opened the leg seams on the front of the apron. Line the piece up so the hems match and the original stitching creates the hemline, or create a new hemline at a different length than the original. Sew the V-shape section in, and topstitch a second stitch line ½ inch in from the first.

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2

Get creative by using the drawstrings as neckties or to trim the sides of the bib front and create a neckband in one continuous loop. You could cut the second leg into strips, fold, and stitch it to create waist ties. If desired, create a seam tape to bind the side seams of the apron if you don’t want to simply do a rolled edge. Remove the belt loops to reposition elsewhere on the apron. I find that by using all the features of the cargo pants, I rarely have to use additional cording or seam tape to complete the project.

Kathleen Lauth owned a vintage clothing and costume shop on 4th Ave in Tucson, Arizona, for 38 years, and is now a freelance costumer for local theater productions. See more of Kathleen’s creations at her Etsy shop, msksvintage.etsy.com. She welcomes email at kathleen_dv@mindspring.com.

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Color

LIFE in

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by Robin Mead

I once wrote: “I love what I can do with a line on a page … with a scribble, a dot, or a doodle … the flow of the ink, the gestural movement, the statement of ‘here I am.’ Enter, wild, exuberant, and joyful color, and you have a mix made in heaven.” This is how I feel about the art I create and the room in which I create it. There is no better way to describe my studio than “life in color.”

I began creating very early at age 4 or 5. My mother used to draw and color imaginary rooms, and I would watch and then go re-create them as best I could. During my early teens I would pencil-sketch portraits of my favorite actors and musicians, my best work being of Peter Cetera from the band Chicago and Barry Gibb from the Bee Gees. In high school I loved art and put a lot of time into it, but that was the end of my art obsession until I went to art school after marrying, having children, and getting my master’s in social work. It was after taking a few classes that I once again realized my love for creating and started making art in my spare time as well as selling pieces on eBay. 

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tips for

Using Colors • Don't be afraid to use every color that calls to you. You can always paint over it if you don't like the results​.

• Don't forget about layers! They create colors you may not think of, add to the saturation of any color choice, and offer surprises when experimenting.

• Go for contrast. Put lights next to darks, warms next to cools, bright next to subtle, etc. You will achieve dramatic effects.

• Get messy! Scribble, splatter, splash, drip, doodle, and drop paint. Use your fingers, a brayer, a palette knife, or a credit card to spread, roll, or scrape it.

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After leaving New York to movie to Georgia, I became a full-time artist and started designing my studio by putting all my art gifts, purchases, and inspirations on the wall. I’ve been in this studio, a spare room in our home, for five years. I describe it as boho bold and beautiful, a collection of everything colorful, textured, and personalized. I have separate areas for painting on a flat surface and creating art videos, for painting on an easel, and an area for sewing.

I also have a camp table chair and a spot for my little grandson to create by my side. My setup is perfect and exactly how I like it. I have a few places to sit and I made the main table extra high at 37 inches so I can stand when creating, which is how I work most of the time.

I store my supplies and pieces in thrift shop finds and odd containers that my husband brings home, so my storage is very eclectic.

Each piece I bring into the room has a purpose, both functionally and aesthetically. Some of my favorite items in my studio are my childrens’ art, inspiring pieces from friends and artists I admire, and my carved rubber stamp erasers and driftwood collection. I find my inspiration in everyday life, nature, and color combinations I see in the world around me.

When I head into the studio, I start with warmups, which I call playin’ with color. It’s rare that I have a creative block, but if I do I just switch mediums. I’ll paint on paper or canvas with acrylic or watercolor, make a handmade journal, crochet, or make stitched postcards with my sewing machine. I just started making clay bowls and use them in my glass and clay flower sculptures. I also love to carve handmade stamps from erasers I buy at the dollar store, and I’ve even started weaving on a loom I made myself.

There is no end to finding inspiration — as I always say, creativity feeds itself, and if I can put color on it, its something that interests me. 

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You don’t need a full-fledged studio to create. Even if you have a small corner with a folding tray, my advice is to leave out your supplies, don’t put them away where you can’t see them. When you pass by the supplies, you can take a minute to stop and create even one thing, or make a mark or shape that can lead to another and eventually turn into a finished piece. You can start being creative with only a pencil and paper, which is how I started out. Just do what you love and try to do it every day, even for a small amount of time — habit fuels your passion.

It’s never too late to start doing something you love or something you’ve always wanted to try; it’s just as thrilling if you do it later in life, possibly even more so. I’m right where I’m supposed to be, it took all of my past to get here, and it’s a dream come true.

To learn more about Robin Mead and to see more of her artwork, visit robinmeaddesigns.com, Instagram (@robin.mead), and Facebook (bellylaughs), (RobinMeadDesigns). She welcomes email at robinannmead@gmail.com.

Photography by Victoria Mead.

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Home

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Niki Meiners

Features Include: • Discover Kristin Gambaccini’s “Blessings Board” perfect for doodling messages and illustrations in the home.

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ad index A Somerset Holiday............................................................... 124

Jewelry Affaire........................................................................ 148

Art Quilting Studio................................................................ 154

Mingle................................................................................... 150

Back Issues Sale...................................................................... 150

Prayer Bowls............................................................................... 1

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Book of Templates.................................................................... 98

Subscribe........................................................................ 152, 153

Creative Living Ideas................................................................ 99

The Coloring Studio............................................................... 158

Digital Editions...................................................................... 155

The Shoppe at Somerset................................................... 31, 157

Field Guide to Everyday Magic ����������������������������������������������� 61

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149

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Guidelines

In Her Studio takes readers on a tour through the creative spaces and lives of female artists, designers, and makers, from elaborate art studios to cozy creative corners. Not only can you explore these inspiring spaces, but you also learn about the journey each woman traveled while developing her studio, as well as the tips and tricks that are successful for her as a working artist. If you have a creative space you would like us to consider for publication, please read the following guidelines.

In Her Studio is released on a quarterly basis: winter, spring, summer, and fall. Submissions are accepted on an ongoing basis, but submissions for specific issues must be received on or before these deadlines: November issue: June 15th February issue: September 15th May issue: December 15th August issue: March 15th

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR ARTICLES feature creative spaces of any size or shape belonging to

makers of all types, from full-time professionals to those who create purely for pleasure. We are also interested in articles about public art spaces and artistic communities. To submit, we request that you send us a selection of photos of the space and a brief description. See “How to Submit” to learn more.

IN MY STUDIO are one-page spotlights that feature a stunning

photograph of a creative space, either a wide shot or a close-up. To submit, we request that you send us the photo and a brief description. See “How to Submit” to learn more.

A STUDIO DIY features a handmade project meant specifically for use in

a creative space, ranging from storage to decor. To submit, we request that you send us photos of the project or send in the project itself, along with a short description of the project. See “How to Submit” to learn more.

We encourage writers and artisans who have not been published before to submit, as editorial assistance will be provided. Editorial compensation is provided for all published articles. The editor also welcomes email queries at inherstudio@stampington.com. No phone calls, please.

HOW TO SUBMIT Photography submissions should be sent to inherstudio@stampington.com.

If the photo files are too large to email, use a file-sharing site, such as Dropbox.com, or Google Drive. As an alternative, you can send us a CD or thumb drive (these will not be returned) containing your high-resolution images to the address provided. Note: If accepted for publication, we will need high-resolution versions of the photos (300 dpi and at least 8" x 10" for vertical images and 10" x 13" for horizontal images). If you cannot provide large enough photos, we may not be able to print your photos, no matter how much we like them. Please include your

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name and mailing address in all emailed submissions. Failure to follow all submission requirements may result in your work not being considered.

Photography submissions on CD/thumb drive as well as physical artwork/project submissions should be sent to: Stampington & Company: In Her Studio 22992 Mill Creek, Suite B Laguna Hills, CA 92653 ARTWORK MANAGEMENT POLICY Sometimes artwork submissions are held for an upcoming issue or forwarded to one of our sister publications, so we may hold your sample for an extended period of time (9–12 months is possible). You can request to have your artwork returned earlier. In the meantime, if you move, please send a postcard or email with your new address to artmanagement@stampington.com.

Due to the large volume of artwork we receive, Stampington & Company will return only those submissions accompanied by sufficient return postage in the form of cash, check, or money order made out to Stampington & Company. If you wish to have your artwork insured for the return journey, please include sufficient funds and indicate your preference in a postcard or letter enclosed with your submission. Please do not attach postage to packaging, and do not send loose postage stamps. Contributors from outside the U.S., please send check or money order in U.S. funds to Stampington & Company.

COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT Stampington & Company only accepts original submissions for publication consideration. All images used in submissions must be copyright-free. Any techniques featured in submissions that are not the artist’s own must be attributed to the proper instructor, book, artist, workshop, etc. It is the responsibility of the submitting artist to ensure that no copyright infringement has occurred and that all submitted work is their own.

SIMULTANEOUS SUBMISSIONS Stampington & Company will not accept simultaneous submissions.

While your work is under consideration we ask that you do not submit the same idea to competing web or print publishers. Likewise, artwork that has already been featured in other competing publications or sites will not be accepted. Publishing on your personal blog is permitted, but we ask that you adhere to our reproduction guidelines. Any questions can be directed to our editorial staff.

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about the

Publisher Since 1994, Stampington & Company has been a leading source of information and inspiration for arts and crafts lovers, storytellers, and photographers around the world. Launched with a small line of rubber art stamps by President and Publisher Kellene Giloff, the company has since expanded to include a variety of bestselling publications.

“When it comes to the art of crafting, no one does it better than Stampington & Company.” – Mr. Magazine™ Samir Husni PUBLICATIONS Known for its stunning full-color photography and step-by-step instructions, the company’s magazines provide a forum for both professional artists and hobbyists looking to share their beautiful handmade creations, tips, and techniques with one another.

Since its 1997 debut, Somerset Studio has become the flagship publication within the industry and attracts a large, devoted following of readers seeking the latest innovations in paper arts and mixed-media.

Art Journaling — the first publication of its kind — features exquisite mixed-media work and inspiration for achieving stand-out pages in journals.

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Field Guide to Everyday Magic is a one-of-a-kind workbook that shines a spotlight on the here and now – through its inspirational quotes, photography, and prompts with interactive, journaling space.

Mingle is an incredibly unique publication that explores the art of entertaining — from various types of intimate, creative gatherings to larger-scale art retreats.

Willow and Sage shares more than 70 unique recipes, uses, and beautiful packaging and gift ideas for homemade bath and body products.

For more information, and to look inside these publications, please visit: stampington.com/publications To learn how you could be published in an upcoming issue, go to: stampington.com/calls-and-challenges

Social Media Presence Stampington & Company provides daily doses of inspiration and a place for likeminded artists to connect on their Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube, Google+, and Twitter pages, which currently have more than 210,000 followers.

In addition to exploring the latest crafting trends on their creative blog, Somerset Place, the company continues to send out weekly and monthly e-newsletters with artist tips, special sales, and free how-to project ideas to their loyal subscriber base of more than 80,000 creative minds.

NEW IN 2018 Stampington & Company is thrilled to announce a number of unique magazine launches this year.

Now Available! Book of Templates is a must-have resource that combines all of your favorite template patterns into one place. If you’re looking to infuse a touch of artfulness into your daily life, you won’t want to miss our special edition containing the BEST of the BEST Creative Living Ideas.

Coming November 1st: Bella Grace is putting its special touch on "hygge" — the Danish concept of embracing a feeling of comfort, warmth, charm, and simplicity with The Cozy Issue. Within The Cozy Issue, women of all ages will be charmed by stories that capture simple, slow living and tiny moments of happiness.

For more information, please visit: stampington.com/coming-soon

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An Imperfect View

“

A typical day in my studio is artistic chaos — putting paint on my palette, sketching, rearranging paintings on my studio wall, collecting photos that inspire me, looking in magazines for inspiration — but the chaos is perfect to me because it means I am so focused that time flies by. The resulting messy studio is an important part of the process: It signifies a productive day. When it comes to art, and the space where we make art, imperfection is often more interesting than a perfect picture.

”

To learn more about Muriel Boer and to see her artwork, visit Instagram (@murielkunstenaar).

Photograph by Muriel Boer.

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theshoppeatsomerset.com With over 4,000 unique crafting essentials and instructional books, The Shoppe at Somerset is an artist’s one-stop destination for inspiration. Feed your creative spirit by indulging in the hottest tools around and explore the possibilities!

The Studio

stampington.com/free-projects Discover more than 900 inspiring project ideas designed by our creative staff ! Each sample comes complete with step-by-step instructions and close-up, detailed photographs to keep you crafting all year long.

Five Ways: Table and Wall Boxes Project

Vintage Plant Box – 3 Ways