TRANQUIL • LUMINOUS • ROOTED Stories from the studio, reflections on process, and the art of the handmade. Why Watercolor Paper Matters: Choosing the Best Watercolor Paper Recently, I began studying watercolor painting with a more dedicated and intentional focus. Rather than simply experimenting here and there, I wanted to truly understand the medium—its techniques, its challenges, and its quiet nuances. Almost immediately, one truth became very clear to me: the paper I choo

TRANQUIL • LUMINOUS • ROOTED Stories from the studio, reflections on process, and the art of the handmade. There’s a moment many artists know well—the gentle ritual of gathering your favorite tools, the ones that feel like extensions of your hands, and settling into a space to create. Whether that space is a kitchen table, a sunlit studio, a park bench, or the front seat of your car between errands, having your tools organized and ready makes all the difference. That’s exac

The Power of a Limited Color Palette for Artists

A look inside my studio at 8 essential tools I use for bookbinding and handmade art. These thoughtfully chosen favorites bring ease, precision, and joy to the creative process.

Dye sprays are one of my favorite tools for creating layered, reactive surfaces in my art. In this post, I share how I use Distress Oxide, Dylusions, and Izink sprays in my journals, on fabric, and for hand-painted book covers—including tips on manipulating color and sealing your final layers.

If I had to name the one tool I couldn’t live without in my studio, it’s my HFS guillotine paper cutter. Here's why it's essential for any bookbinder.

When I travel—whether by plane, bike, or trail—I always bring a curated set of art supplies that fit neatly in my Tinker Tote. In this post, I’m sharing the 11 art supplies I pack every time: trusted watercolor paints, favorite sketching tools, compact paper, and more. These essentials let me create wherever I go, from quiet lake scenes to bustling city squares. If you're wondering what to bring on your next creative trip, this list is for you.