Some of my favorite YouTube live sessions are the ones that do not have a big agenda. Just good company, something to keep the hands busy, and a real conversation.
This one with my friend and colleague Melissa Esplin is exactly that. We sat down together, wrapped Christmas gifts on camera, and talked about family, the holidays, and the Christmas gift wrapping traditions that make this time of year feel special.
There is something about wrapping gifts that puts me in the holiday spirit every single time. The paper, the ribbons, the little moment of making something look beautiful before it gets torn open. I love it. And doing it with Melissa made it even better because she is one of those people who is just genuinely fun to be around.
What We Talked About
We covered a lot of ground in a pretty relaxed way, which is honestly my favorite kind of conversation. We talked about what Christmas looks like in our homes, the traditions that have stuck around year after year, and the little rituals that make the season feel like the season.
If you have been thinking about your own Christmas gift wrapping traditions, or you are looking for a little holiday inspiration while you tackle your own pile of presents, this video is a cozy watch. Pour yourself something warm and press play.
About Melissa Esplin
Melissa is a talented creative and someone I genuinely enjoy collaborating with. She brings warmth and creativity to everything she does, and that comes through in every minute of this conversation. I always love when we get to share space together, even when that space is virtual.
Watch the Full Video
Whether you are mid-wrapping-session yourself or just looking for some cozy holiday company, come watch. It is a warm, real conversation and a nice reminder that the holidays are really about the people and the moments, not the perfectly tied bows.
Holiday shopping does not have to be stressful or expensive. I genuinely believe that the best gifts are the ones that show someone you know them, and a lot of the time those gifts do not cost much at all.
I went live on YouTube and walked through my personal list of favorite inexpensive holiday gifts on Amazon this year, and the response was so great that I wanted to put it all together in one place for you. Every single item on this list is something I actually love or would personally give. No filler, no random picks, just good stuff.
These are perfect for the creatives, crafters, readers, planners, and curious people in your life. And yes, there is a bonus section at the end featuring a couple of my own books, because if you know someone who loves design or wants to be more intentional in their creative life, I think they will love them.
The List: 10 Inexpensive Holiday Gifts on Amazon I Love
All links are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through my link I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share things I genuinely recommend!
This one is just plain fun. It is a glowing LED board where you can write messages, draw little doodles, or leave notes in different colors. I love it as a gift for kids, for teens, for anyone who has a desk or a creative space. It is the kind of thing that makes people smile every single day. Great for leaving little love notes or motivational reminders too.
A beautiful, simple gold ring that looks way more expensive than it is. This is the kind of everyday jewelry that goes with everything and that the recipient will actually wear. If you have a friend, sister, or daughter who loves dainty jewelry, this is a great pick and it ships fast from Amazon.
I am a sucker for a beautiful puzzle, and this one is gorgeous. A spring street scene with all the color and detail that makes puzzling feel like a real creative activity rather than just killing time. This is the kind of gift that ends up on the coffee table and brings the whole family together. Puzzles are having a moment and for good reason.
If you have not seen the Dash Mini Waffle Maker yet, you are in for a treat. It is tiny, it is adorable, it makes perfect little waffles in minutes, and it comes in so many cute colors. This is one of those gifts that feels way more special than the price tag suggests. Great for college students, kids, anyone who loves breakfast, basically everyone.
A great lip balm is one of those things everyone always needs and never thinks to buy for themselves. This one is a favorite for a reason. It makes a perfect stocking stuffer, add-on gift, or little extra something to tuck into a gift bag. Simple, practical, and genuinely appreciated.
I love a journal that feels like it was made for dreamers. This one is beautiful and the kind of thing that sits on your nightstand and actually gets used. Perfect for the creative or thoughtful person in your life who loves to write, plan, or dream on paper. Journals are one of my all-time favorite gifts to give and receive.
This is one of my absolute favorites on the list. A mini watercolor set that is compact enough to take anywhere, whether you are traveling, sitting in a coffee shop, or just want to paint at the kitchen table. Perfect for artists, aspiring artists, kids, and anyone who needs a little more creative play in their life. The colors are beautiful and it is so easy to use.
If you have never played with a Shashibo, you need to fix that immediately. It is a magnetic puzzle cube that transforms into over 70 different shapes. It is mesmerizing, it is satisfying, and it is the kind of gift that gets picked up over and over again. Great for kids, teens, and honestly adults who like to keep their hands busy. One of the more unique picks on my list this year.
A good daily planner is one of the most useful gifts you can give someone who wants to feel more organized and intentional with their time. This one is clean, practical, and designed for actually getting things done rather than just looking pretty on a shelf. A great gift for the person in your life who is always trying to get it together in the best possible way.
The Art of Spending Money is a thoughtful read for anyone who wants to be more intentional with how they use their money. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel is one of those books that genuinely changes how you think about wealth and decisions, and it is one of the most recommended books in my circle right now. And the Teenagers Guide to Investing in the Stock Market is a fantastic gift for any young person in your life who is ready to start thinking about their financial future. I love giving books that actually teach something, and these three deliver.
Bonus: My Own Books Make a Great Gift Too!
I would not be me if I did not mention that I have some books of my own that I think make wonderful gifts for the creative people in your life. These are especially great for designers, artists, and anyone who wants to live and work with more intention in the new year.
Intentional Design Year
This is my book for designers and creatives who want to plan their year with purpose. It is a beautiful, thoughtful resource that helps you set creative goals, organize your design life, and show up for your work with clarity and intention. Available in both paperback and hardback.
The companion prompt journal to go alongside the Intentional Design Year book. Full of guided prompts to help creatives reflect, dream, and plan. Perfect for someone who loves journaling with a purpose. Also available in paperback and hardback.
I walked through every single one of these picks on a YouTube live session and shared why I love each one. It is a fun watch and a great way to see the gifts in action before you buy.
I hope this list makes your holiday shopping a little easier and a lot more fun. Happy gifting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all of these gifts really inexpensive?
Yes! Every item on this list was chosen with budget-friendly gifting in mind. Prices on Amazon can fluctuate, but these are all picks that give you a lot of value without a big price tag. Check each link for the current price.
Are these good gifts for creative people?
So many of them are! The mini watercolor set, the Shashibo, the Possibilities Journal, the Intentional Design Year book, the LED note board, and the spring street puzzle are all especially great for the creative people in your life.
Do you earn a commission on these links?
Yes, some of these are Amazon affiliate links, which means if you purchase through my link I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share things I genuinely love and would recommend regardless.
Which gift on this list is your top pick?
It is hard to choose, but the mini watercolor set and the Shashibo are two that I think genuinely surprise and delight people. And obviously I am partial to the Intentional Design Year book because it is something I poured a lot of heart into. Any of those three would make me very happy to receive!
Where can I find more of your recommendations?
You can check out my Amazon storefront for more of my personal favorites, and subscribe to my YouTube channel where I go live regularly and share creative resources, tutorials, and more.
Okay, I have to tell you about this because it was so fun and the results were delicious.
I went live on YouTube and made Butterbeer. Not once, but twice, because the first version was good and I was pretty sure I could make it even better. Spoiler: I was right. And now I want to share both versions with you so you can try them at home and decide which one is your favorite.
Whether you are a lifelong Harry Potter fan, you are looking for something magical to make with your kids, or you just love a good creative kitchen experiment, this Butterbeer recipe Harry Potter fans have been making for years is surprisingly simple. Three ingredients. No wand required.
If you have ever been to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, you already know. Butterbeer is one of those things that sounds made up but tastes completely real and completely wonderful. Warm and sweet and a little bit butterscotch-y, with a frothy cream on top.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and I wanted to go live and do it with you. So I pulled together some simple ingredients, set up the camera, and started experimenting. What happened next was one of my favorite live sessions in a while because honestly, tasting Butterbeer while chatting with you is a pretty great afternoon.
Version 1: The Ice Cream Butterbeer
The first version I tried is the one you will see floating around the internet most often. It is creamy, sweet, and honestly pretty dreamy.
What You Need
Cream soda
Butterscotch topping
Vanilla bean ice cream
How to Make It
Pour your cream soda into a glass, filling it about two thirds of the way.
Drizzle in a generous pour of butterscotch topping and give it a gentle stir. You want it mixed in but you do not need to go crazy, a little swirl is perfect.
Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream right on top.
Drizzle a little extra butterscotch over the ice cream because more is more.
Serve immediately and enjoy the magic.
This version is a total crowd pleaser. The ice cream melts slowly into the cream soda and creates this dreamy, float-style drink that is sweet and rich and so satisfying. Kids go absolutely wild for it.
But then I thought, what if the topping was lighter? What if instead of ice cream we did something that felt more like the frothy cream you get at Universal? So I went back in for round two.
Version 2: The Whipped Cream Butterbeer (My Favorite!)
This is the one. I am telling you, this is the one.
Version 2 swaps the vanilla bean ice cream for canned whipped cream on top, and it changes everything. You still get that sweet butterscotch cream layer, but it is lighter and fluffier and it feels more like the Butterbeer you get at the Wizarding World. This is now my go-to Butterbeer recipe Harry Potter style, and I think once you try it you will understand why.
What You Need
Cream soda
Butterscotch topping
Canned whipped cream
How to Make It
Pour cream soda into your glass, filling it about two thirds of the way.
Stir in a good drizzle of butterscotch topping. Taste as you go and adjust to how sweet you like it.
Shake your can of whipped cream and pile a generous swirl right on top of the drink.
Finish with a drizzle of butterscotch topping over the whipped cream.
Serve right away before the whipped cream settles, and enjoy every sip.
The whipped cream floats on top the way the foam does at the real Butterbeer stand, and when you drink through it you get that perfect combination of creamy and fizzy in every sip. It is so good. My team agreed. This one wins.
Which Version Should You Make?
Honestly, make both and do your own taste test. That is half the fun.
But if I am giving you my honest recommendation, go with the whipped cream version. It is lighter, it feels more authentic to the Wizarding World experience, and it comes together in about two minutes. The ice cream version is amazing if you want something richer and more dessert-like, and it is a great option for kids who love an ice cream float situation.
Either way, you cannot go wrong. Butterbeer is just happy in a glass.
Tips for Making It at Home
Use cold cream soda. The fizz stays better and the whole drink is more refreshing when everything is chilled.
Do not skip the butterscotch drizzle on top. It looks beautiful and it adds that extra hit of flavor in every sip.
Serve it immediately. Whipped cream settles fast, so make it right before you are ready to drink it.
Make it a whole moment. Put on a Harry Potter movie, pull out your house colors, and make an afternoon of it. That is what this drink is for.
Make It Your Own
One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to play with. Here are a few fun variations to try:
Warm Butterbeer: Skip the cream soda and warm up some apple cider or ginger beer on the stove with butterscotch stirred in. Top with whipped cream. Perfect for fall.
Butterbeer for a crowd: Make a big batch by mixing cream soda and butterscotch in a punch bowl and letting everyone add their own whipped cream on top. So fun for a Harry Potter party.
Extra butterscotch: If you love butterscotch as much as I do, add it to the whipped cream layer too by drizzling it both in the drink and over the top. Yes please.
Watch the Full Video
I make both versions on camera, taste test them in real time, and share all my thoughts as I go. It is a fun watch even if you are not planning to make it today.
And if you make either version at home, I want to see it! Share it with me on Instagram and tag me so I can cheer you on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Butterbeer made of?
The easy homemade version uses just three ingredients: cream soda, butterscotch topping, and either vanilla bean ice cream or canned whipped cream on top. My favorite version uses canned whipped cream because it gives you that light, frothy top layer that feels closest to the real thing.
What does Butterbeer taste like?
Sweet, creamy, and butterscotch-forward with a fizzy base from the cream soda. It is rich without being heavy, especially the whipped cream version. Think of it like a fancy butterscotch cream soda float.
Can kids make this Butterbeer recipe?
Absolutely. This is one of the easiest recipes you can make with kids. There is no cooking involved, everything is just assembly, and kids love being part of the Butterbeer moment. Great activity for a Harry Potter movie night or birthday party.
Is this the same as Butterbeer at Universal Studios?
It is a really close homemade version! The cold Butterbeer at Universal has a cream soda base with a butterscotch cream topping, which is exactly what we are making here. The whipped cream version gets you the closest to that experience at home.
Can I make a warm version of Butterbeer?
Yes! Swap the cream soda for warm apple cider or ginger beer, stir in butterscotch topping, and top with whipped cream. It is cozy and perfect for fall and winter. I talk about this variation in the video too.
The Sweet Life Designer Summit 2026 came together on March 11 and 12, and I am still riding the high from it. We had an incredible lineup of presenters, workshops that covered everything from paper crafting and die cutting to AI and business marketing, and a community of creatives who showed up ready to learn and connect.
If you were there live, thank you. You made the Sweet Life Designer Summit what it was. And if you missed it, or you want to go back and watch everything at your own pace, keep reading. I have a full breakdown of every presenter and topic below, plus the YouTube live sessions you can watch right now, and information on how you can still get the All Access Pass.
Watch the Live Sessions on YouTube
We went live on YouTube during the summit and I want to make sure you have easy access to both sessions. These are a great way to get a feel for the energy of the event and hear directly from some of our incredible presenters.
Go watch, enjoy, and then come back here for the full recap.
Every Presenter and What They Taught
This is what I love most about the Sweet Life Designer Summit. Every presenter brought something different to the table. Crafters, business owners, designers, educators — all showing up to share what they know with a room full of creative people who were ready to grow. Here is a look at every session from the 2026 summit.
Randal Smith | Laser-Cut Love: A Mother’s Day Project That Blooms with Meaning
Randal walked us through a laser-cut Mother’s Day project that combines simple materials with thoughtful design to create a gift that lasts. This was a beautiful session for any maker who loves creating with intention and gifting from the heart.
Terri Johnson | Paper Blooms for Spring
Terri showed us how to make layered paper flowers from start to finish, covering shaping, layering, and assembly. If you have ever wanted to create paper blooms you would actually want to display, this was the session for you.
Aja Fillmore | Floral Layout Magic: Create Designs That Feel Effortless and Joyful
Aja designed a floral layout in real time, starting from a blank canvas and walking through every decision. How she decides where things go, how she keeps florals feeling balanced without overthinking it, and how she fixes things when something feels off. She walked away leaving everyone with a repeatable approach that works for cards, printables, and surface designs.
Carla Locke | Spring Rabbit Card
Carla taught us how to make a layered shadowbox card perfect for Easter or any spring occasion. The design was customizable, which I loved, so you could make it your own or follow her lead exactly.
Cheryl Kuchek | What I Wish I Knew About AI
This one got a lot of attention, and rightfully so. Cheryl talked about how AI can change the way you create without taking away what makes your work yours. A really thoughtful, practical session for any creative who has been curious about AI but unsure where to start.
Claudette Agustin | From Stencil to Story: Creating an Intuitive Art Journal Page
Claudette walked through her full process for cutting a digital stencil from an SVG file on a Silhouette, then using it as the foundation for a mixed-media art journal page inside a repurposed book. Layered paint, expressive marks, and a process that felt deeply personal. This session was gorgeous.
Coleen S. Rood | Stacked Paper Chicken Lantern Cards
Coleen walked us through her layered 5×7 stacked paper chicken card, a quirky and charming project that uses cardstock, vellum, and a little glue to create something that genuinely glows. This one was playful and so fun.
Cori George | Simple Systems That Save Time (Even If You’re a Solo Creative)
Cori’s session was one of the business highlights of the whole summit. She shared low-pressure systems for creative entrepreneurs to save time, reduce decision fatigue, and get more done without burning out. Practical, actionable, and so needed.
Denise Levy | Wrapped in Blooms SVG Birthday Card
Denise taught us how to create a layered die-cut greeting card featuring a whimsical floral bouquet wrapped in paper and tied with a bow. Multiple layers, beautiful dimension, and a coordinating Happy Birthday tag. She also showed how to use the floral elements separately for gift tags and scrapbook projects.
Heidi Ulery | Reverse Gilding and Bold Finishes with SVG Letter Art
Heidi’s session was all about technique. She walked through a full reverse gilding project using SVG letter art, from preparing the file to applying the finish to create a polished, framed statement piece. Clean linework, controlled layering, and a finish that adds real depth.
Kelly Wayment | Creative Calm: Making a Triskele Paper Orb
Kelly guided us through creating a triskele paper orb, a relaxing and satisfying paper craft that works whether you use a Silhouette machine or cut entirely by hand. Beautiful displayed hanging or sitting, and a genuinely calming project to make.
Michelle Ward | A Spring Appreciation Gift Bag Craft for Classrooms and Celebrations
Michelle’s session was flexible and inclusive by design. She walked through a customizable treat bag project that works with cutting machines or simple print-and-cut templates, making it accessible for classrooms, parties, and spring events with or without a lot of tools or time.
Maile Alicia Ogden | Threadling Doll
Maile taught us how to create a small fabric doll with a hand-sewn face, yarn or fabric hair, and completely custom personality. Every detail guided, from stitching expressive faces to choosing hair textures and fabrics. These tiny handmade dolls are perfect for little ones and keepsakes alike.
Michelle Price of 12×12 Cardstock Shop | Easter Bunny Gift Box
Michelle covered how to get the right cut settings for different types of cardstock, then finished the class by making a fun Easter Bunny Gift Box. Practical, seasonal, and a great reminder that the right settings make all the difference in your final result.
Toni Imlay | Make a Cute Spring Felt Banner
Toni taught us to make a spring banner using felt, freezer paper, and either a Silhouette Cameo or scissors and floss. Simple, charming, and the kind of project that makes your home feel like the season. Embellishments welcome.
Veronica Lopez | The Art of Intentional Planning: Build Your Own Discbound System with a Silhouette Cameo 5 and Electrostatic Mat
Veronica showed us how to cut custom planner components from SVG files using an electrostatic mat, choose the right papers, and assemble a polished discbound planner that blends beauty, function, and intentionality. A really detailed and inspiring session.
Carina Gardner, Ph.D. | Business and Marketing Sales, Parts 1 and 2
I presented two sessions across both days covering simple marketing and business techniques for artists and designers. We talked about how to think about sales, how to communicate value, and practical strategies for leveling up your creative business. These were some of my favorite conversations to have with this community.
The All Access Pass Is Still Available
Here is the thing about the Sweet Life Designer Summit. The live event is over, but the content does not have to disappear on you.
The All Access Pass gives you lifetime access to all 17 presentations from the summit so you can watch at your own pace, rewatch the ones you loved, and actually follow along with the projects you want to try. You also get bonus gifts from the presenters and premium bonuses worth over $1,000 in value.
And I have a bonus Dessert Trio included with the All Access Pass that you get directly from me. Three of my own presentations:
Getting Started with Typography in Illustrator
Marketing Simplified for Creatives
Photoshop Basics
The All Access Pass is $97. If you missed the early bird pricing, that is still an incredible deal for everything that is included.
Every year when we wrap this event, I feel the same thing. Grateful. Energized. And more convinced than ever that this creative community is something special.
The Sweet Life Designer Summit is not just a collection of tutorials. It is a room full of creatives who all showed up because they care about getting better, building something real with their skills, and connecting with other people who get it. That energy is real, and it comes through in every session.
I am so proud of every presenter who brought their best to this event. And I am proud of every attendee who showed up, watched, asked questions, and kept learning.
If you have been sitting on the fence about the All Access Pass, this is your nudge. The content is waiting for you. Come join us.
Can I still access the Sweet Life Designer Summit presentations?
Yes! The live event has ended, but you can get lifetime access to all 17 presentations by purchasing the All Access Pass at designsuitecourses.com/sweet2026allaccess. You can watch everything on your own timeline and rewatch as many times as you like.
What does the All Access Pass include?
The All Access Pass gives you lifetime access to all 17 summit presentations, bonus gifts from the presenters, over $1,000 worth of premium bonuses, and my personal Bonus Dessert Trio featuring three additional presentations from me on Typography in Illustrator, Marketing for Creatives, and Photoshop Basics.
How much does the All Access Pass cost?
The All Access Pass is $97. You can grab it at designsuitecourses.com/sweet2026allaccess.
Where can I watch the live YouTube sessions from the summit?
Both live sessions are available on YouTube. Session 1: youtube.com/live/iX6Fv-BVKLc and Session 2: youtube.com/live/JW9JZz5XRns. Links are also included at the top of this post.
Will there be another Sweet Life Designer Summit?
We love hosting this event and hope to bring it back. The best way to be the first to know is to get on our email list. You can sign up at designsuitecourses.com.
I want to tell you about something I have been planning for a while now, and I am so excited to finally share it with you.
In April 2027, I am taking a small group of designers to Amsterdam. And when I say small, I mean it. This trip is limited to 20 people. We will spend six days exploring one of the most visually rich cities in the world together, visiting world-class museums, making things with our hands, and soaking up a city that has been inspiring artists and designers for centuries.
This is the Amsterdam designer trip 2027 I have always wanted to lead. If you have been waiting for a sign to finally do something like this, here it is.
Screenshot
Why Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is one of those cities that designers fall in love with immediately. The architecture alone is worth the trip. Narrow canal houses, centuries-old bridges, streets that feel like they were designed by someone who understood proportion and light. And then there is the art. The Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the textile heritage, the craft traditions. Amsterdam has layers of creative history that you cannot find anywhere else.
I have traveled a lot, and Amsterdam holds a special place for me. There is something about the way the city balances history with creativity, tradition with innovation, that feels deeply relevant to the work we do as designers. It is the kind of place that fills your creative well back up.
That is exactly what I want this trip to do for the designers who come with me.
What This Trip Includes
I want to be clear about what you are getting when you join this Amsterdam designer trip 2027, because I think when you see the list, you will understand why spots are already filling up.
Everything below is included in the $3,400 price:
Carina as your personal tour guide the entire trip
Hotel for 6 nights inside the city
Van Gogh Museum
Rijksmuseum
Canal cruise through the city’s iconic waterways
Guided bike tour through historic city squares and hidden streets
Efteling Theme Park day trip via private coach (think Grimm’s Fairytales come to life)
Delft style tile painting workshop
Leather bag workshop with local Amsterdam artisans
Tulip Festival at Keukenhof Gardens
Windmills at Zaanse Schans
Anne Frank House
A transit card for getting around the city on your own
Opening welcome dinner
A group of creative women to make art and memories with
What is not included:
Airfare (so you can use points, choose your routing, and have flexibility)
Meals beyond the opening dinner
Personal shopping and gifts
The optional bonus day at the Textile Museum ($315 add-on)
The Day-by-Day Itinerary
Here is what the week looks like. This is tentative and subject to small adjustments based on ticket availability, but I will stick to this as closely as possible.
Thursday, April 8: Arrival day. Check into the hotel at 4pm and join us for the welcome dinner together.
Friday, April 9: Van Gogh Museum, a canal cruise through the city, and a guided bike tour.
Saturday, April 10: Full day trip to Efteling Theme Park via private coach. This place is magical, and I cannot wait to share it with you.
Sunday, April 11: Rijksmuseum in the morning, Delft tile painting workshop, and an open evening for shopping in the city.
Monday, April 12: Tulip Festival at Keukenhof Gardens and the windmills at Zaanse Schans.
Tuesday, April 13: Anne Frank House and the leather bag workshop with local artisans.
Wednesday, April 14: Goodbyes, OR join us for the bonus day trip to the Textile Museum in Tilburg, Netherlands ($315 add-on, includes private coach and hotel).
The Bonus Day: TextielMuseum in Tilburg
If you want to extend the trip by one day, I have added an optional bonus experience that I am genuinely thrilled about. The TextielMuseum in Tilburg is about two hours outside Amsterdam and is one of the most incredible textile and design museums in Europe.
The bonus day is $315 and includes the private coach, entry to the museum, and an extra night in a hotel. You will add this on when you reserve your spot.
For anyone who loves textiles, pattern, and the intersection of art and craft, this is an easy yes.
Who This Trip Is For
This Amsterdam designer trip 2027 is for creative women who want more than a vacation. It is for the designer who has been pouring into her craft and her clients and is ready to pour back into herself. It is for the creative entrepreneur who knows that the best ideas come when you get out of your usual environment and into something that challenges and inspires you.
You do not have to be a seasoned traveler. A lot of people joining us may be traveling internationally for the first time. We will have an online community before the trip, a group call so everyone can meet, and full support throughout the week. You will not be navigating any of this alone.
You do need to enjoy walking and biking. Amsterdam is a walking city, and we will be on our feet a lot. If you are physically healthy and excited to explore, you are going to love every minute of it.
Pricing and How to Reserve Your Spot
The full cost of the Amsterdam designer trip 2027 is $3,400. Your spot is reserved with a $400 deposit, and then starting August 1, 2026, you can either pay the remaining $3,000 in full or spread it across 6 payments of $500.
Spots are limited to 20 people, and they are already filling. If you are interested, I would not wait.
Refund policy: Full refunds are available through July 31, 2026. After that, you can transfer your spot to another person through January 1, 2027. Many people treat this as a professional development expense, but check with your accountant for your specific situation.
I have traveled solo and I have traveled with groups, and I can tell you that there is something completely different about being in a new city with people who see the world the way you do.
When you walk through the Rijksmuseum with other designers, the conversation is different. When you sit in a Delft tile painting workshop next to someone who also thinks about color and composition for a living, you learn things you would never learn on your own. When you share a canal cruise with a group of creative women who are all investing in themselves and their work, something shifts.
That creative energy is real. It is one of the things I love most about bringing designers together in spaces like this, and Amsterdam is one of the best backdrops in the world for it.
A Note from Me
I have a Ph.D. in Design and more than twenty years of experience as a designer, Creative Director, and educator. I founded the University of Arts and Design because I believe deeply that designers deserve real education and real community.
This trip is an extension of that belief. I want to take designers somewhere that fills them back up creatively, gives them experiences that inform their work for years to come, and connects them with other women who get it.
Twenty spots. One week. Amsterdam in the spring, when the tulips are in bloom and the city is at its most beautiful.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is where you will want to fly into. Airfare is not included in the trip price so you have full flexibility to use points or choose your own routing.
Will I have a roommate?
Yes. Rooms are shared with twin beds, two people per room. You will be able to choose your roommate through our online community before the trip. If the numbers happen to work out so that someone ends up solo, there is no extra charge for that.
What if I have never traveled internationally before?
This trip was designed with first-time international travelers in mind. We provide a structured itinerary, a group online community before departure, and full support throughout the week. You will not be doing this alone, and that makes all the difference.
Is this trip physically demanding?
Amsterdam is a walking city and we will be on our feet a lot, including a full day of biking. We recommend that you are in good physical health and comfortable with walking and light activity. If you need a rest at any point, your transit card gives you easy access back to the hotel.
Can I extend my stay before or after the trip?
Absolutely. You are welcome to arrive early or stay on after the group departs. You will be responsible for any extra hotel nights and activities outside the scheduled itinerary, but I am happy to give recommendations.
What if I need to cancel?
Full refunds are available through July 31, 2026. After that date, you can transfer your spot to another person through January 1, 2027. Just have them pay you directly and take your place on the trip.
Is there a waitlist?
Yes! If spots sell out, you can join the waitlist at designsuitecourses.com/travelamsterdam. If there is enough interest, we may open a second trip.
What questions do you have that are not covered here?
Email us at assistantcarinagardner@gmail.com and we will get back to you.
I want to talk to you about something that comes up constantly in the design community. Clients ask for Meta and Facebook ads. Business owners need them. Marketing and design teams are responsible for them. And yet so many talented creatives have never been taught how to actually design one well.
If you’ve ever been handed an ad brief and thought, I don’t really know what I’m doing here, I understand that feeling. And here’s the truth: it’s not because you’re not a good designer. It’s because ad design is its own skill set, and most design education just doesn’t cover it.
That’s exactly why I created Design Meta Ads That Convert — a Meta Ads Design Course built specifically for creatives who want to stop guessing and start designing ads with real intention.
Why Ad Design Is Different
Here’s what I’ve learned after more than two decades in design: designing an ad is not like designing anything else. The environment is noisier. The viewer is moving faster. You have less than a second to earn someone’s attention before they keep scrolling.
Every single design decision you make in an ad, from how you handle typography to how you crop an image to how much breathing room you give your layout, is either working for you or against you. There’s very little in between.
Most designers learn this the hard way, through trial and error on real client projects. But you don’t have to do that. You can learn the principles behind what makes ads work visually and then apply them from day one.
Design Meta Ads That Convert is a design-only course. It focuses entirely on the visual side of creating Meta ads. How they look. How they’re structured. Why some layouts stop the scroll and others don’t.
To be clear about what this course does not cover:
Ad setup or campaign creation
Pixels or tracking
Targeting or audience strategy
Copywriting
If you’re looking for ad management or strategy, this is not that course. But if you’re looking to design better ads, you’re in exactly the right place.
The course teaches ad design across four tools:
Canva
Adobe Express
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
And here’s what I love about how this is structured: the design principles stay the same regardless of which tool you use. You learn to think like a designer first, and then you apply that thinking in whatever software fits your workflow.
Who This Course Is For
I built this course for three kinds of people, and I want to speak to each of you directly.
Freelance Designers
Your clients are asking for Meta ads. You want to say yes with confidence and deliver work that actually performs. This course gives you the visual framework to do that, and to explain your design choices in a way clients understand and trust.
Small Business Owners
You’re wearing every hat in your business, including the marketing hat. You’ve tried templates, but they look like everyone else’s and they’re not converting the way you need them to. This course teaches you to move beyond templates and create ads that reflect the quality and personality of your brand.
Marketing Teams and In-House Creatives
You know strategy. You know copy. But the design side has always felt more like instinct than a system. This course gives you a repeatable visual process so your creative output is more consistent and more effective across every campaign.
You don’t need a design degree or a marketing background to take this course. You just need some experience with at least one of the tools and a genuine desire to get better.
A Look at What’s Inside
The Meta Ads Design Course includes three core modules and three bonus modules. Here’s what each one covers.
Module 1: Ad Design Foundations
This is where we start, and honestly, this module alone is worth the investment. Before you open any software, you need to understand what makes ad design different from other creative work. In Module 1 you’ll learn:
What makes ad design different from other types of design
Ad sizes and formats and how they affect layout
Core design principles for creating ads that earn attention
Typography and visual hierarchy for fast-scrolling feeds
Why some ads work and others don’t
Understanding the “why” is what takes you from following templates to designing with intention. This module builds the foundation everything else rests on.
Module 2: Create Ads That Convert
This is where you put it all into practice. You’ll design actual ads in Canva, Adobe Express, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop, and you’ll see how the same thinking translates across each tool. By the end of this module, you’ll know how to create professional ad visuals in whatever environment you already work in.
Module 3: Marketing Smart Ideas
This module gives you context. We talk about how AI is being used in ad design workflows, how designers fit into modern marketing teams, and how Meta is thinking about creative going forward. It’s not about chasing trends. It’s about understanding the bigger picture so you can design smarter.
The Bonus Modules
Three bonus modules are included that go beyond the design itself and address the full picture of working as a creative professional.
Bonus Module 4: How Designers and Copywriters Work Together
Great ads happen when design and copy work in the same direction. This module shows you exactly how that collaboration works so you can produce better results whether you’re working solo or alongside a writer.
Bonus Module 5: How to Pitch Clients
Designing great ads is one thing. Being able to explain your decisions to a client in a way that builds trust is another. This module teaches you how to talk about your creative choices professionally so clients keep coming back.
Bonus Module 6: Make Connections
You’ll get access to a directory of designers and copywriters so you can find collaborators, referral partners, and other creatives who understand the kind of work you do. Community matters, and this bonus gives you a way into one.
What You’ll Walk Away With
By the time you finish the Meta Ads Design Course, here’s what changes:
You’ll design Meta ads with confidence, knowing exactly why your choices work.
You’ll be able to apply strong design thinking across Canva, Adobe Express, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
You’ll know how to talk about your work in a way that builds client trust and keeps them coming back.
You’ll have access to a community of designers and copywriters to grow alongside.
You’ll have lifetime access to the course so you can revisit it as your skills grow and the platforms evolve.
A Little About Me
I’m Dr. Carina Gardner. I have a Ph.D. in Design, and I’ve spent more than twenty years in this industry as a designer, Creative Director, and educator. I’m the founder of the University of Arts and Design, where I teach designers how to build sustainable creative careers.
What I care most about is helping creatives think better, not just execute faster. That’s the philosophy behind everything I teach, and it runs through every module of this course. You’re not just learning techniques. You’re learning a way of approaching design problems that will serve you on every project going forward.
Pricing and How to Enroll
The Meta Ads Design Course is currently available at a pre-sale price, and the savings are significant.
Regular Price: $497
Check for Pre-Sale or Discount price
LIMITED TIME: Use code EARLYAD at checkout to save an additional $200
Early access includes Module 1 right away, with the full course including all bonus modules available starting March 16, 2026. This is a limited-time offer, so if you’re ready to invest in your ad design skills, now is a great time to jump in.
Here’s a simple gut check. This course is a great fit if:
You’ve been asked to design Meta ads and felt underprepared
You’re tired of templates that look like everyone else’s
You want your work to feel professional and intentional
You work in Canva, Adobe Express, Illustrator, or Photoshop
You want to create better ads for yourself or your clients
If that sounds like you, I’d love to see you in the course.
Final Thoughts
The difference between an ad that gets scrolled past and one that makes someone stop is almost always design. Not the budget. Not the team size. The design.
I’ve spent twenty-plus years studying what makes design work, and this course is built to pass that knowledge on to you in a way that’s practical, approachable, and immediately useful. Whether you’re designing for your own business or for clients, you deserve to do it with confidence.
The pre-sale pricing won’t last long. Come join us!
You don’t need a formal background, but some familiarity with at least one of the design tools covered (Canva, Adobe Express, Illustrator, or Photoshop) will help you get the most out of it.
Does this course teach targeting or campaign setup?
No. This is a design-only course. For the technical and strategic side of running Meta ads, you’ll want to find a separate resource. This course is focused entirely on visual design.
Which software should I use?
Whichever one you already know or want to learn! The course covers all four tools and shows how the same design thinking applies across them. The principles transfer no matter what platform you prefer.
What if I’m a small business owner with no design training?
This course was absolutely built with you in mind. You don’t need formal training. You just need the desire to create ads that look as professional as your business deserves, and this course gives you the tools to do that.
Where can I find the refund and fulfillment policy?
The full Terms, Privacy, and Fulfillment Policy is linked on the course page at designsuitecourses.com/ads. I recommend reviewing it before purchasing if you have any questions about refunds or access.
This post is a behind the scenes look at how I use a clear design process to get an incredible amount of creative work done in a single day. This is not about working faster. It is about working with intention so nothing gets wasted or half finished.
I am using the Design Process Model from my book Design Profit & Prosper, which gives structure to my creative days and allows me to move from idea to finished output without feeling scattered.
When you have a strong process, you do not have to spread work across endless days. In this design day, everything was completed in one focused block of time. Because I am running the University of Arts & Design, Design Suite, and my other programs during the day, I use Saturday as my main design day.
I believe in batching everything. I designed the projects. I cut everything out. I assembled everything. I filmed creative videos while I was already in making mode. I uploaded the content and wrote the descriptions. By the end of the day, the work for the week was finished.
That kind of completion only happens when the process is clear before you start.
Batching Design, Making, and Content
Batching is the reason this one day design process works. Instead of switching between tasks all day, I grouped similar work together.
All cutting happened at once. All making happened at once. All filming happened at once. All uploading and writing happened at once.
Because I stayed in the same type of work for longer stretches, everything moved faster and felt lighter.
Designing Ahead for Future Weeks
One of the biggest wins of the day was designing beyond just this week. I created additional dimensional items that will be used over several upcoming weeks.
That means future content is already planned and partially complete. I am not starting from zero every time I sit down to work. This is how consistency becomes sustainable instead of exhausting.
Fitting in Extra Creative Work
I even managed to fit in some font design during the day.
Font design takes a long time and requires deep focus, so most days I can only fit in one or two major creative tasks. Because everything else was structured and batched, I had enough mental space to make progress on type work as well.
That is the power of a solid one day design process.
Why This Matters for Creatives
Most creatives are not short on ideas. They are short on process. When you know what comes first and what comes next, your creative work stops feeling overwhelming.
This is what I teach through my work and why process matters just as much as talent.
If you enjoy seeing how designers actually work through a full creative day and how systems support creativity instead of killing it, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more behind the scenes design content.
If you love design and want to learn how to think and work like a designer, explore degrees and certificates through the University of Arts & Design at www.uad.education.
One good process can change not just a day, but the way you create entirely.
This 3D pillow box tutorial teaches you how to assemble a die cut shape into a functional box. Unlike flat paper projects, dimensional designs require an understanding of how paper folds, curves, and supports itself.
Designers use 3D pillow box designs because they offer a clean and modern way to package small items. The shape is versatile and works well for animal designs, Valentine themed projects, holiday packaging, and everyday gift boxes. You will see several of these designs in my 3D shop.
A homemade pillow box adds love and makes this project feel more special.
How This 3D Pillow Box Tutorial Works
In this 3D pillow box tutorial, I guide you through the full assembly process from start to finish. The tutorial focuses on aligning pieces correctly, shaping the box evenly, and forming clean folds that hold their structure.
The full video lets you see some of the different designs I have added as well as how to assemble the entire box.
Using Die Cutting Machines for 3D Pillow Boxes
This 3D pillow box tutorial works with Cricut, Siser, Silhouette, and other popular die cutting machines. While each machine operates differently, the assembly principles remain the same.
Once you understand how dimensional projects are built, you can apply the technique across different machines and designs.
Best Projects for a 3D Pillow Box
These 3D pillow boxes are useful for a wide range of projects. Pillow boxes work especially well for party favors, small gifts and treats, classroom projects, holiday packaging, and craft fair products. I show you how I add tea bags to this one and would add a message in it for a friend.
Designing Die Cut Files for Dimensional Projects
Dimensional die cut files are created with structure in mind. Score lines, tabs, and curves are placed intentionally so the project folds and holds correctly.
This tutorial helps you recognize those design features so you can work more confidently with three dimensional files and avoid common mistakes. If you love this kind of thing, check out more about why building 3 dimensional things are a useful skill for designers (see next section!).
Why 3D Pillow Box Skills Matter for Designers
Learning how to create 3D projects supports both creative growth and business development. Designers who understand assembly can create better digital files, clearer instructions, and higher quality finished products.
These skills are especially helpful for designers selling SVG files, kits, or handmade packaging.
Pillow boxes and other 3D projects bridge the gap between crafting and packaging design. When assembled well, they elevate a project from homemade to gift ready.
This tutorial shows how thoughtful design and careful construction lead to polished results.
If you would like to explore these designs, you can find them in the Silhouette shop and at www.carinagardner.com.
If you are interested in learning more about design, creative entrepreneurship, and formal education options for designers and artists, visit www.uad.education.
This design studio barn tour is a behind the scenes look at where real design work happens. Inside this creative space, my artwork is developed, my products are designed, courses are built for the University of Arts & Design, and my creative business runs daily.
For anyone interested in becoming a graphic designer, surface pattern designer, or craft and quilting designer, I hope seeing my working studio helps inspire you. This is not a styled set or a temporary filming space. This is a functional design studio built to support creative work and business growth.
Why a Design Studio Matters for Designers
A design studio is more than a place to make things. It is where ideas become products and skills turn into income. In this design studio barn tour, you see how a dedicated creative space supports focus, consistency, and long term success.
Designers who want to own their own business often underestimate how important environment is. A studio helps separate creative work from daily distractions. It creates structure, routine, and space to think bigger about what is possible.
Inside a Working Design Studio Barn
This studio barn is used for my graphic design, surface pattern design, craft development, and quilting related projects. It includes areas for digital work, physical making, teaching, filming, and planning.
Everything in the space has a purpose. Tools are organized to support efficiency. The lights are set up on dimmers and in rows so I don’t have to use studio lights. The closet has electrical outlets for my printers and machines. There are ceiling and floor outlets too.
My hope is that this design studio barn tour shows how one space can support multiple types of design work and content creation. Every wall is it’s own studio space.
For Designers Who Want More Than a Hobby
I hope you like this studio tour! It is for designers who want more than casual creativity. It is for people who want to build a design career, grow a creative business, and make their work sustainable.
Whether you are interested in graphic design, surface pattern design, craft design, or quilting design, the principles are the same. Consistent work, thoughtful systems, and a supportive environment matter. It helps me get things done even when kids are home from school and chaos is ensuing.
A studio does not have to be large or perfect. It needs to support your goals and the type of designer you want to become. I have worked in the past in my kitchen, in my bed, and at a small desk in my kid’s bedroom. I have also had my own office in a house as well as an outside office. But this is the first time I’ve had my own space.
Learning Design and Building a Creative Business & I’m Doing It In the Design Studio Barn Tour
Many designers ask how to move from making things to building something that lasts. That transition requires both creative skill and business education.
If you want to learn more about design, creative entrepreneurship, and building a sustainable design career, you can explore resources and courses at www.carinagardner.com
For those interested in formal design education, degrees, and advanced programs for designers and artists, visit www.uad.education
Final Thoughts on This Design Studio Barn Tour
This design studio barn tour is meant to show what is possible when creativity and intention meet. A studio can become the foundation for a meaningful design career and a creative life that supports both passion and income.
If you are building your own path as a designer, let this tour remind you that your space matters and so does your vision.
Looking for fresh ideas for Thanksgiving entertaining? Join designer Carina Gardner as she shows you how to create beautiful Thanksgiving charcuterie boards that are both fun and easy to assemble. This hands-on YouTube Live tutorial is perfect for anyone who wants to make their holiday table extra special, whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, a Friendsgiving, or a casual fall gathering.
Create Stunning Thanksgiving Snack Boards
During the live session, Carina demonstrates how to build a visually stunning Thanksgiving charcuterie board step by step. She shares tips on arranging meats, cheeses, fruits, and other seasonal treats to make a delicious and eye-catching display. You’ll also learn how to add festive fall touches to bring your board to life.
Creative Tips for Your Thanksgiving Table
Carina shares her favorite tips for arranging a Thanksgiving charcuterie board that looks as good as it tastes. She shows how to combine different colors, textures, and seasonal ingredients to create a festive fall display. With simple ideas for layering meats, cheeses, fruits, and treats, you can easily make your holiday table both inviting and visually stunning. These creative touches make it simple to impress your guests and elevate your Thanksgiving entertaining without adding extra stress.
Easy Holiday Entertaining Inspiration
Carina’s approach focuses on simplicity, creativity, and style. By following her tips, you’ll learn how to turn everyday snacks into festive Thanksgiving centerpieces that impress your guests. Whether you’re short on time or want to try something new, this live class gives you easy, creative inspiration for your holiday entertaining.
Get ready for a frightfully fun time in the Halloween Craft Party Live with Carina Gardner and Lori Whitlock. This YouTube Live is packed with easy DIY Halloween and holiday ideas for anyone who loves baking, crafting, or decorating. Whether you’re planning a party or crafting with family, there’s something here for everyone.
Bake Along with Carina Gardner
During the live stream, Carina shows how to bake homemade chocolate chip cookies. She mixes the dough and bakes them to golden perfection. Her easy, creative style makes baking fun and helps beginners feel confident in the kitchen.
Carina’s cookies are fun, festive, and perfect for gifting or adding to your party dessert table. She shows how to package them in cute holiday boxes, making them ideal gifts for neighbors and friends.
Craft a Paper Treat Box with Lori Whitlock
Meanwhile, Lori Whitlock brings her paper crafting magic to the table with an adorable Halloween, Fall and Christmas treat box project. She demonstrates how to cut, fold, and assemble a box that’s perfect for holding cookies, candies, or any small goodies. Her clear instructions and charming design help you easily customize this DIY craft with your favorite papers, patterns, and embellishments.
Lori’s project is a great way to use up scrap paper and add a handmade touch to your holiday festivities. Her design makes it easy to create multiple boxes for party favors, classroom gifts, or trick-or-treat surprises.
Get Inspired and Celebrate Halloween Creativity
Throughout the live event, Carina and Lori share helpful tips, creative inspiration, and plenty of Holiday spirit. The atmosphere is festive and lighthearted, making it a great way to spend time crafting along from home. The combination of baking and paper crafting offers a fun balanced mix of creative ideas that you can use for your next celebration.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting your creative journey, this Halloween Craft Party is full of inspiration. Grab your supplies, invite a friend, and join in on the fun.
Watch the Halloween Craft Party Replay
Don’t miss this creative and festive Halloween event. Watch the full Halloween Craft Party Live replay here:
Looking for fun and easy Halloween treat ideas? In DIY Halloween Treats, Carina shares how to make spooky-cute Halloween desserts that are sure to impress at any party. In this YouTube Live tutorial, you’ll learn step-by-step how to decorate chocolate-frosted cupcakes with spiderweb designs and dip fresh strawberries into ghostly white chocolate for the perfect festive touch.
Make Easy and Adorable Halloween Desserts
Halloween baking doesn’t have to be complicated! In this live class, Carina walks you through each step to create two simple and fun desserts—Spiderweb Cupcakes and Ghost Strawberries.
You’ll start by baking and frosting chocolate cupcakes before learning how to add delicate and simple spiderweb designs. Then, Carina shows you how to transform strawberries into sweet little ghosts using melted white chocolate and candy eyes.
These treats are not only adorable but also quick to make—perfect for kids, parties, or a last-minute Halloween celebration.
What You’ll Learn in This Halloween Baking Tutorial
Here’s what you’ll discover in this live session:
Easy techniques for spiderweb cupcake designs
Step-by-step instructions for dipping strawberries in white chocolate
Creative ways to decorate ghost strawberries with personality
Simple presentation ideas for your Halloween dessert table
Each step is beginner-friendly, and you can follow along in real time as Carina shares her favorite tips and tricks for making these cute Halloween treats.
Perfect for Halloween Parties and Family Fun
These DIY Halloween treats are a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a classroom event, or just want to add some spooky fun to your weekend, these desserts are guaranteed to bring smiles.
They’re fun to make, delicious to eat, and simple enough for the whole family to enjoy together.
Watch the Full DIY Halloween Treats Tutorial
Don’t miss out on this festive live class! Watch the full tutorial with Carina here:
Learn how to make Cute Spiderweb Cupcakes and Ghost Strawberries that will make your Halloween extra sweet!
When Carina’s friends Nicki and Natali, two accomplished CEOs, came to town for the weekend, she wanted to make their visit memorable. To celebrate, Carina hosted a Spirited Away Dinner Party inspired by the beloved Studio Ghibli classic. Since neither of her guests had seen the film, the evening became an extra-special way to introduce them to its magic while sharing an immersive food experience.
Why a Spirited Away Dinner Party Works
Many people have organized themed dinner-and-movie nights for favorites like Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings. Carina wanted to bring that same kind of creative energy to Spirited Away. With its whimsical food scenes and detailed storytelling, the film is the perfect choice for this kind of gathering. The format is simple: while the movie plays, courses are served to match what’s happening on screen. This unique approach turns a movie night into an interactive and memorable event.
Planning the Spirited Away Dinner Courses
Carina began the evening with a salad inspired by the “green fields while Dad was driving.” While it required a little creative interpretation, it set a fresh and light tone for the meal.
Each following course aligned with key moments in the film:
The lavish feast when Chihiro’s parents indulge
Kamaji’s comforting shrimp and rice dinner
Chihiro’s bean bun scene, adapted into pork buns
Baby Boh’s dessert plate, featuring Japanese candy Carina had recently purchased, along with Korean and Chinese sweets
Mixing Tradition with Creativity
The fun of this Spirited Away Dinner Party came from blending authentic Japanese touches with Carina’s own improvisations. While she leaned into Japanese-inspired flavors, she also added Korean and Chinese dishes for variety. The result was a colorful spread that mirrored the whimsy of the film itself.
Because Nicki and Natali had never seen Spirited Away before, each course sparked laughter and surprise. Serving food in sync with the movie deepened the atmosphere and helped everyone connect more fully with the story.
How to Host Your Own Spirited Away Dinner Party
For anyone interested in hosting a themed dinner, the process is more approachable than it seems. Choose a movie with vivid food imagery, then create courses inspired by key moments. Improvisation is encouraged, as it brings personality to the meal. The goal is to build a magical, immersive experience where storytelling and food work together.
Are you looking for the perfect Halloween art project? Then join Carina for a Haunted Mansion Watercolor Art tutorial that beautifully combines spooky charm with easy, beginner-friendly techniques. During this step-by-step YouTube Live, you’ll first learn how to sketch your design and then discover how to create eerie shadows, glowing windows, and haunting details that ultimately bring your haunted mansion painting to life.
Create a Spooky Haunted Mansion with Watercolor
In this Halloween watercolor painting tutorial, Carina walks you through each stage of building your haunted mansion scene—from the first pencil sketch to the final watercolor details.
She starts by sketching the outline of the haunted mansion with a light pencil, focusing on the structure and shapes that give it a mysterious, aged look. After finishing the sketch, she begins painting and layers washes of color to build depth and atmosphere. As she adds shadows, highlights, and blending, the haunted mansion transforms into a glowing, ghostly scene.
This project is perfect for anyone who wants to add a little spooky flair to their watercolor collection.
What You’ll Learn in This Tutorial
Here’s what you’ll discover in this haunted mansion painting lesson:
How to lightly sketch your haunted mansion with a pencil before painting
How to create eerie shadows using watercolor layers
Techniques for painting glowing windows and lighting effects
Tips for adding atmospheric elements like fog, trees, and moonlight
Ways to make your haunted mansion feel alive with haunting details
Whether you’re new to watercolor or looking for spooky painting ideas to inspire your next project, this class is filled with helpful techniques and seasonal inspiration.
Perfect for Beginners and Halloween Art Lovers
This Haunted Mansion Watercolor Art project is designed for all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced painter, you’ll find it easy to follow along. In fact, if you’ve ever wanted to capture the spirit of Halloween through art, this tutorial provides a simple yet exciting way to experiment with color, light, and mood. As a result, you’ll gain both confidence and inspiration while creating your own spooky masterpiece.
Grab your paints, pencils, brushes, and a sense of spooky adventure—you’ll be amazed at what you can create
Watch the Full Haunted Mansion Watercolor Tutorial
Don’t miss out on this creative Halloween painting session. Watch the full video here:
If you love design, travel, and creative inspiration, you’re going to love this new episode of Dishing the Tea with Carina Gardner! In this special chat, Carina sits down with the incredibly talented designer Lori Whitlock to talk all about their trip to Japan for the Silhouette Summit—and they’re spilling all the tea.
Silhouette Summit in Japan
Carina and Lori share stories from their incredible adventure overseas as they discover beautiful stationery, explore Tokyo’s design shops, and visit creative markets. They also give a behind-the-scenes look at the Silhouette Summit in Japan, where top designers and makers from around the world come together to learn, collaborate, and find inspiration.
Creative Journeys and Design Inspiration
This conversation isn’t just about travel—it’s about the creative journey. Carina and Lori also dive deep into how they both got started in the design industry, what keeps them inspired, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re an experienced designer or just starting out, you’ll pick up tips and tricks to grow your creative business and stay motivated.
Tips for Creatives and Entrepreneurs
They also talk about balancing creativity with entrepreneurship, building a brand that reflects your true style, and finding joy in the creative process. Their insights remind us that design isn’t just about making—it’s about storytelling, perseverance, and passio
Watch the Full Conversation
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and join the conversation! You won’t want to miss this fun and inspiring chat between two powerhouse designers.
There’s something magical about gathering together to talk about books, and that is exactly what happens in Books We Love with Carina & Friends. As part of the Design Suite Maker Conference, Carina is joined by Ashli Montgomery, Julianna Hukill, Randal Smith, and Christine Baldino for a cozy book club–style chat. During the conversation, each guest not only shares their favorite reads but also explains why these books inspire them. In addition, they highlight how stories can spark creativity and bring new ideas into our everyday lives.
A Cozy Book Chat You’ll Love
Grab your favorite drink, settle into a comfy chair, and enjoy a relaxed and inspiring conversation about books. Carina and her friends dive into genres they love, memorable characters, and meaningful takeaways from the stories that have stayed with them. Whether you’re already an avid reader or looking for new recommendations, this session is packed with ideas to add to your own reading list.
Why Books Inspire Creativity
Reading is more than just turning pages—it’s a source of imagination and inspiration. During this chat, Carina and her guests talk about how books influence their creative work, offering fresh perspectives and fueling new ideas. It’s a reminder that storytelling connects us, builds community, and helps us see the world through a different lens.
Watch the Full Live Session
You can watch the entire Books We Love with Carina & Friends live session here
Explore Carina’s Favorite Books
Want to discover some of Carina’s favorite reads? You can find a curated selection in her Amazon storefront: Carina Gardner’s Amazon Store. It’s a great place to pick up your next inspiring book.
Join the Conversation
Books bring people together, and this fun discussion shows just how meaningful reading can be. Whether you’re looking for creative fuel, a relaxing escape, or simply new book suggestions, Books We Love with Carina & Friends is the perfect place to start.
Fall is in the air, and Halloween is just around the corner. This makes it the perfect time to dive into festive crafting projects. In the Fall & Halloween Craft Chat with Carina + Friends, you’ll explore spooky-cute project ideas and gain creative inspiration. Additionally, you’ll pick up tips to bring your seasonal designs to life. This fun session is part of the Design Suite Maker Conference and features Carina along with three talented guests: Suzy Logan, Stephanie Furr, and Barb Zimmerman.
Meet the Creative Guests
Each guest shares their unique creative journey along with special fall and Halloween projects. Suzy Logan brings her signature whimsical style to autumn designs that are perfect for both beginners and advanced makers. Stephanie Furr highlights projects that blend fun seasonal themes with a touch of elegance, showing how Halloween décor can be both cute and stylish. Barb Zimmerman shares her love of crafting through imaginative projects that make great family activities and thoughtful seasonal gifts. Together, their ideas are sure to spark your own creativity this fall.
Behind the Scenes with Carina
Carina guides the conversation, exploring how each designer approaches the season and what inspires them most during this cozy and creative time of year. From spooky details to charming fall accents, this chat celebrates how different creative voices come together to make the crafting community thrive.
Why You Should Watch
Whether you’re looking for fresh project ideas, wanting to learn more about the creative process, or simply love connecting with fellow makers, this chat is full of inspiration.
You can watch the full live session here:
Get ready to be inspired, discover new project ideas, and add some spooky-cute fun to your fall crafting lineup!
Make your creative world even more inspiring with a deep dive into design! In this YouTube Live, Amazing Design Moments in Netflix’s Wednesday and K-Pop Demon Hunters, Carina and Aja not only explore the fascinating design elements from these two shows, but also explain why they stand out. Throughout the session—part of the Design Suite Maker Conference—you’ll discover practical insights, creative inspiration, and fresh ideas on how entertainment design can influence and elevate your own projects.
Design Lessons from Netflix’s Wednesday
Netflix’s Wednesday quickly became a fan favorite because of its unique gothic aesthetic. First, from the moody set designs to Wednesday’s signature black-and-white wardrobe, every detail was carefully crafted to reflect her iconic personality. In addition, Carina and Aja highlight how the creative direction leaned into gothic sensibilities while also adding modern twists. As a result, the show feels both timeless and relatable to today’s audience.
The Stylish World of K-Pop Demon Hunters
In contrast, K-Pop Demon Hunters bursts with vibrant color, energy, and style. The costumes and stage-inspired aesthetics pull from the fast-paced world of K-pop, blending fantasy elements with cutting-edge fashion. It’s a fresh reminder that design isn’t limited to traditional forms—it thrives in music, performance, and pop culture.
Creative Takeaways for Designers
Whether you’re a crafter, surface designer, or digital artist, there are lessons to be learned from both shows:
Bold contrasts can define a visual identity.
Fashion and music are powerful sources of design inspiration.
Storytelling through design makes a lasting impact
Why This Matters for Creatives
Carina and Aja remind us that inspiration is everywhere. By analyzing shows like Wednesday and K-Pop Demon Hunters, we can see how design choices in popular culture influence broader trends in fashion, art, and crafting.
Watch the Replay
Catch the full YouTube Live replay to see the conversation and dive deeper into these amazing design details:
The world of design is vast—and by looking at entertainment through a creative lens, you’ll discover endless inspiration for your own projects.
It’s the most wonderful (and creative) time of the year—because Black Friday week is finally here! Starting on November 1–7, 2025, we’re kicking off the celebration with seven exciting days of exclusive Black Friday deals. Plus, each day brings bonus freebies and incredible savings on your favorite Carina Gardner classes and programs.
Each day, we’ll release a brand-new deal on our special Black Friday landing page, featuring a workshop, course, or creative pass at a limited-time price. We’ve designed every offer to help you grow your creative skills and spark fresh inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting your creative journey, now’s the perfect time to grab the tools, training, and motivation you need to design your best year ever.
Where to Find the Daily Deals
Visit our official Black Friday Deals Page here: https://www.designsuitecourses.com/blackfriday. There, you’ll find all the latest offers and surprise bonuses released throughout the week.
How to Join the Fun
Every morning starting at 8am MT from November 1–7, be sure to visit our Black Friday landing page to discover that day’s exciting new deal and special pricing. As the week unfolds, each offer will bring something fresh and inspiring to explore. However, each deal will only be available for 24 hours, so act quickly and grab your favorites before they’re gone.
So, whether you’re looking to grow your creative skills or simply try something new, it’s truly the perfect time to invest in your creativity, explore fresh ideas, and take advantage of these incredible Black Friday savings.
Mark your calendar, and then get ready for a full week of creativity, freebies, and fun. After all, this Black Friday celebration was made for designers like you!
Yes, you read that right—bread art is officially a thing, and we had the best time turning it into a masterpiece during the Design Suite Maker Conference.
In our live YouTube session, Bready or Not: Painting Bread with Carina & Sarah, Carina and guest Sarah dove into the deliciously quirky world of painting on artisan bread. The result? A fun mix of creativity, laughter, and some seriously gorgeous loaves that looked almost too good to eat.
Why Bread Art?
Sometimes the best creativity happens when you try something unexpected. Bread becomes the canvas, and with a few brushes, food-safe colors, and a lot of imagination, you can transform a simple loaf into a true work of art.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just looking for something fun and whimsical, bread art is a reminder that inspiration can come from anywhere—even your kitchen counter.
Watch the Replay
If you missed the live session, don’t worry. You can catch the full replay here:
Trust us—it’s part tutorial, part comedy, and 100% inspiring.
Try Bread Art Yourself
Want to give it a go? We’ve made it super easy to grab everything you need. Carina has curated all the supplies for bread art in her Amazon shop. From brushes to edible paints, you’ll be ready to create your own bread masterpiece.
This session was just one of the many highlights from the Design Suite Maker Conference—a 3-day virtual event filled with 35+ presentations, YouTube lives, and so many creative freebies. It’s proof that creativity has no rules, and sometimes the most unexpected projects spark the biggest smiles.
If you’d like to enjoy every class, tutorial, and creative resource, you can still grab the All Access Pass. With it, you’ll have lifetime access to every single presentation from the conference.
So the next time you’re looking for a new project, grab a loaf of artisan bread, some paintbrushes, and let your imagination run wild. Who knows—you might just create the most beautiful (and tasty) art yet.
The Design Suite Maker Conference 2025 has officially wrapped up, and what an incredible three days it was! Makers, crafters, and designers from all over the world joined together for a virtual experience packed with creativity, inspiration, and hands-on learning.
With over 35+ presentations, 6 live YouTube sessions, and tons of freebies, this year’s conference was bigger and better than ever. Whether you’re passionate about crafting, sewing, card making, or creating holiday décor, there was truly something for everyone.
What We Covered at the Conference
Attendees had access to a wide variety of step-by-step tutorials and expert-led presentations, including:
Crafting projects to spark your creativity and bring new techniques into your work.
Sewing and fabric classes that were perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike.
Card making workshops filled with clever designs for every occasion.
DIY home décor tutorials to transform spaces with handmade charm.
Holiday projects that helped attendees prepare for the most magical season of the year.
Every presentation was designed to be beginner-friendly, fun, and packed with value, giving participants the confidence to create something amazing.
Community and Creativity
One of the best parts of the Design Suite Maker Conference is the community that comes together. From chatting in the Event Community to cheering each other on during the live sessions, the energy and encouragement were contagious. Many attendees mentioned how much they loved not just the classes, but also the opportunity to connect with other creatives who share the same passion.
Did You Miss the Conference?
If you weren’t able to join us live, don’t worry—you can still be part of the magic! All the presentations, replays, and freebies are available through the Design Suite Maker Conference 2025 All Access Pass.
The pass gives you lifetime access to every presentation, all six YouTube lives, and every single bonus freebie. That means you can watch, learn, and create at your own pace, anytime you want.
Why You’ll Love the All Access Pass
Learn from 35+ expert presenters.
Enjoy projects in crafting, sewing, card making, and home décor.
Gain access to exclusive freebies you won’t find anywhere else.
Rewatch tutorials as often as you like.
Get inspired for every season and holiday.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this creative experience. Whether you’re looking to level up your skills, find fresh inspiration, or just carve out some creative time for yourself, the All Access Pass is the perfect way to make it happen.
Make Santa’s Workshop for Your Christmas Village in this festive tutorial with Carina. Using her Silhouette cutting machine, Carina will show you step by step how to build Santa’s Workshop, one of the most magical pieces in her Christmas Village collection. This 3D paper craft is a fun and creative project that will instantly bring holiday cheer to your home.
Whether you’re crafting a full Christmas village or just want one special piece for your décor, Santa’s Workshop is a project that captures the magic of the season.
Why Make a Christmas Village?
Christmas villages have long been a favorite holiday tradition, and now you can design your own using paper and your cutting machine. These projects are:
Easy to cut and assemble with your Silhouette machine
Beginner-friendly, with step-by-step guidance in the tutorial
A wonderful way to create lasting holiday décor you’ll use year after year
Perfect for families, crafters, and anyone who loves holiday magic
Santa’s Workshop is one of the highlights of the Christmas Village collection—it’s festive, fun, and makes your display come alive.
Bring the Magic of the Season to Life
Whether you build one piece or the entire collection, Carina’s Christmas Village is a creative way to make the holidays feel even more special. Imagine setting up a glowing village on your mantle, table, or under the Christmas tree.
With your Silhouette machine, paper, and a little time, you can create décor that feels handmade, magical, and totally unique.
Watch the Tutorial
Carina shared the entire process during a live session. You can watch it anytime here:
This video will give you all the tips and tricks you need to make your workshop look magical.
Build a Magical Christmas Village Clock Tower with Carina Gardner! There’s nothing quite like crafting your own holiday décor to make Christmas feel extra magical. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a festive Christmas Village that truly sparkles, you’ll love this Christmas Village Clock Tower project! In this Make With Me YouTube Live, designer Carina Gardner walks you step by step through cutting, assembling, and decorating this stunning 3D piece using her Silhouette cutting machine.
Whether you’re brand new to 3D paper crafts or a seasoned maker, this beginner-friendly tutorial is a perfect way to bring the holiday spirit into your home
What You’ll Learn in This Tutorial
In this YouTube Live, Carina shows you exactly how to:
Cut the Clock Tower design using your Silhouette machine
Assemble the 3D structure with simple, clear steps
Add decorative touches to make it uniquely yours
Create a piece that’s sturdy, beautiful, and ready to display
By the end, you’ll have a 3D Christmas Village Clock Tower that looks like it came straight out of a holiday storybook.
How to Use Your 3D Clock Tower
This magical project can be used in so many festive ways, including:
Christmas Village Display – Add it to your holiday village collection for a whimsical new centerpiece.
Festive Table Décor – Place it on your dining table or mantel for instant holiday cheer.
Handmade Gift – Surprise a loved one with a custom-made Clock Tower that’s both heartfelt and unique.
This is more than just a craft—it’s a keepsake that will become part of your holiday traditions for years to come.
Bring Holiday Magic to Your Home
Crafting a Christmas Village Clock Tower is more than just a project—it’s an experience that brings joy, creativity, and holiday spirit to your season. With Carina’s guidance, you’ll create something that not only looks beautiful but also carries the warmth of being handmade.
So grab your Silhouette cutting machine, gather your supplies, and let’s build holiday magic together.
Watch the Full Tutorial
Ready to make your own Christmas Village Clock Tower? Watch Carina’s full YouTube Live tutorial for step-by-step instructions and tips here:
Don’t forget to subscribe to Carina’s channel for more holiday crafting ideas, 3D paper projects, and festive inspiration!
Looking to stop leaving money on the table and negotiate like a pro? In Negotiation Secrets Every Designer Needs, Carina Gardner is joined by negotiation expert Susie Tomenchuk to reveal how designers can negotiate with confidence, protect their value, and land better deals. Whether you’re discussing contracts, licensing, or client rates, the strategies shared in this session will empower you to approach every negotiation with clarity and skill. Additionally, these tips are designed to help you build stronger client relationships while maximizing your income.
Key Takeaways from Carina Gardner and Susie Tomenchuk
During this insightful video, Carina and Susie cover essential negotiation techniques that every creative professional should know. Specifically, you’ll learn the #1 mindset shift for confident negotiation, as well as how to handle pricing pushback without losing a client, and practical, real-world scripts to use during high-stakes conversations. Moreover, these tips are not just about money—they’re also about respecting your work, asserting your value, and ultimately building sustainable creative careers.
Negotiation Is a Creative Skill You Can Master
One key takeaway from this session is that negotiation is a creative skill you can master. Just like your design work, negotiation requires consistent practice, thoughtful strategy, and confidence. Furthermore, by applying the tips shared by Carina and Susie, surface pattern designers, illustrators, and other creatives can transform challenging discussions into valuable opportunities to grow their business and, ultimately, increase their income.
How Designers Can Apply These Strategies
This video is perfect for designers at any stage who want to:
Communicate their worth effectively to clients
Approach contracts and licensing deals with confidence
Implement proven strategies to handle pushback without stress
Build long-term relationships while maintaining strong pricing
Resources to Help You Grow Your Creative Business
For more resources to grow your creative business, check out:
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn negotiation secrets from the experts. Watch Carina Gardner and Susie Tomenchuk reveal the strategies that can transform the way you work with clients, protect your creative value, and achieve better deals every time.You can watch the video here:
Looking for the perfect Halloween craft to light up your spooky season? Haunted Glow: Easy DIY Halloween Candle Wraps is just the project you need! Join designer Carina Gardner and guest Aja, for a frightfully fun DIY candle wrap project. In this live session, Carina and Aja share how to create Haunted House, Cemetery, and Pumpkin Patch candle wraps that will give your home decor a ghostly glow!
These Halloween candle wraps are simple, beginner-friendly, and can be cut with your Silhouette, Cricut or Siser cutting machines—making them a versatile project for every crafter. Whether you’re decorating for a haunted house party or just want to add a touch of spooky charm to your living room, these glowing wraps are the perfect seasonal project.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Halloween Craft
Beginner-friendly – no advanced crafting skills required.
Use your cutting machine – works with Silhouette, Cricut or Siser.
Three fun designs – Haunted House, Cemetery, and Pumpkin Patch.
Budget-friendly decor – transform simple candles into glowing Halloween magic.
Imagine lining your walkway with glowing pumpkin candles or setting a haunted house candle on your mantle. These wraps create a cozy yet spooky atmosphere that’s sure to impress your trick-or-treaters and Halloween party guests.
How to Make Your Halloween Candle Wraps
Carina and Aja will walk you step-by-step through the process during her YouTube Live. You’ll see how easy it is to assemble each wrap, get tips for cutting on different machines, and learn how to layer your wraps for the best glowing effect.
This project is the perfect way to bring handmade magic into your seasonal decor while keeping things simple, creative, and fun.
Watch the replay of Haunted Glow: Easy DIY Halloween Candle Wraps on Carina’s YouTube channel here:
What really makes a design good—or bad? That’s the big question behind our latest YouTube Live: Trash or Treasure: Rating AI Designs Live. In this session, Carina dives into the world of AI-generated artwork and puts designs to the test. Are they creative masterpieces… or total design flops? Joined by two of her amazing Design Suite coaches, Aja and Julie, this live discussion turned into a hilarious and insightful deep dive into design, creativity, and the growing influence of AI in the design world.
With AI tools making it easier than ever to generate art, many creatives and makers are left wondering: how do you know if the design is truly good? During the live video, Carina shares her expertise as a professional designer to break down what works, what doesn’t, and why design fundamentals still matter in a world of artificial intelligence.
Why This Live Was So Fun
One of the highlights of the live session was seeing AI’s unexpected “mistakes.” From oddly-shaped objects to funny design flops, the livestream was packed with laughs as Carina pointed out where AI designs miss the mark. But beyond the humor, she explained how even flawed designs can help us learn more about what makes a project visually strong.
Viewers got to see real examples of design principles in action—like balance, composition, and color. Carina compared what AI creates with what an experienced designer knows instinctively, showing the difference between designs that are simply “eye-catching” and those that are truly effective.
What You’ll Learn from Watching
Whether you’re a crafter, digital designer, or just curious about the future of design, this live is a must-watch. You’ll learn:
How to spot the difference between a solid design and a weak one.
Why AI often misses the details that matter most.
Tips on what to look for when evaluating your own projects.
How to use design “fails” as inspiration for better work.
AI might be smart, but it still doesn’t replace the human touch that makes art meaningful. If you’ve ever questioned whether a design is a keeper or a dud, this session is full of insight and inspiration.
Watch the full video here:
If you’ve ever wondered whether an AI design is a trash flop or a treasure find, this is the live you don’t want to miss!
Have you ever looked at your craft table and thought, “You know what’s missing? A fish”? No? Me neither.
But that’s exactly where today’s crafting adventure, Something’s Fishy in the Craft Room, begins. Carina stumbled across a jaw-dropping video online where someone used a live fish tomake a paint imprint. Naturally, her first thought was: Is this real? And does it actually work?
And so, for the sake of art (and curiosity), she decided to try it herself.
The Strange Inspiration
In the original video, the crafter gently pressed a painted live fish onto paper to create a colorful imprint. It looked… bizarrely beautiful. But could this be done without scaring the fish or creating a giant mess?
Carina’s rules for the experiment:
The fish had to be safe at all times.
No harmful paints or chemicals.
Everything had to be reversible and washable.
Step-by-Step: The “Live Fish” Craft Project
Carina’s version of this quirky craft idea involved a little creativity:
Choose the fish – She picked a calm, wiggly companion.
Non-toxic paint – Only safe, washable craft paints made the cut.
The imprint moment – With gentle handling, the fish “posed” for its art debut.
The result was… surprisingly beautiful. Nature makes the best patterns
The Verdict
While this was one of the funniest crafting experiments Carina has ever done, she admits it’s not a project she’ll be repeating often. Still, it’s proof that sometimes the most unexpected ideas lead to the most interesting results.
Watch the Full Fishy Craft Experiment
If you think I’m exaggerating, you have to see it for yourself.
Over to You
What’s the weirdest, most unexpected craft you’ve ever tried? Share it in the comments—we might just feature your idea in a future video. And if you enjoyed this wild crafting adventure, don’t miss watching Something’s Fishy in the Craft Room—because sometimes, the best projects are the ones you never saw coming.
Looking for a playful and creative paper project that works with your Cricut, Siser or Silhouette machine? We’ve got the perfect one for you: an adorable DIY Rainbow Roller Skate Card!
In this Make With Me YouTube Live, Carina Gardner is joined by guest designer Analeah Williams, who walks us through how to make this nostalgic and colorful card—perfect for happy mail, birthday greetings, or just-for-fun crafting.
What We Made: A Retro-Inspired Roller Skate Card
This sweet rainbow-themed card has all the charm of the ’80s and ’90s—with modern crafting flair. With layered cardstock, a rolling wheel cutout, and a pop of color, it’s the kind of project that brings a smile (and a little disco vibe) to your craft table.
Whether you’re a Cricut or Siser user or a Silhouette fan, this project works with all cutting machines and is easy to follow along.
What You’ll Need
A Cricut, Siser or Silhouette cutting machine
Rainbow-colored cardstock
Glue or tape runner
Optional: foam tape for layering
The Rainbow Roller Skate Card SVG file (see below)
Where to Get the SVG File
You can purchase the Rainbow Roller Skate Card SVG directly from Analeah’s shops:
Ready to get crafting? Analeah shares tips for assembling the card, adjusting cut settings, and making it extra special with your own twist You can watch the full live tutorial and follow along here:
Don’t Miss More Craft-Alongs
This tutorial is part of our Make With Me series, where Carina invites fellow designers to create live and share their process. Be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel for more card projects, SVG tutorials, and creative die-cutting fun.
Join Carina and guest Sarah for a festive Christmas in July craft along. Learn how to Create a Magical Christmas Village using Cricut, Silhouette, or Siser machines.
Looking for a fun and festive way to get a jump on your holiday crafting?
In our special Christmas in July YouTube Live Craft Along, Carina and guest event coordinator Sarah teamed up to help you get a head start on the holidays with one of our favorite seasonal projects: Carina’s Christmas Village.
Using your favorite die-cutting machine—Cricut, Silhouette, Siser, or another—you’ll follow along step-by-step to build a magical paper village perfect for your holiday décor or gifting.
What We Made: Carina’s Christmas Village
This DIY Christmas Village is simple to cut and assemble, making it perfect for crafters of all levels. You’ll learn tips for cutting clean pieces, layering cardstock, and even lighting up your village if you’d like.
The holidays come fast—and there’s no better time to start than the middle of summer. If you Create a Magical Christmas Village in July will allow you to enjoy the creativity and calm of holiday making before the rush begins. This project is a great way to kick off your seasonal crafting.
Watch the Replay
If you missed the live event, don’t worry—you can still watch the full replay on our YouTube channel. Follow along with Sarah and Carina and create your own village at your own pace.
It’s never too early to bring a little autumn magic to your table—especially when you’re crafting with your Silhouette or Cricut. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to our Thanksgiving in JulyCelebration, hosted by Carina Gardner.
Whether you’re planning ahead for cozy fall gatherings or just want an excuse to break out the pumpkins and paper, this festive live will help you create the most beautiful Thanksgiving place settings ever.
Why We’re Celebrating Thanksgiving in July
Why wait until November to start planning your dream Thanksgiving table? July is the perfect time to gather your favorite materials, get inspired, and try out those DIY fall ideas while there’s still time to perfect them.
Carina and guest Julie are bringing you a creative live full of gorgeous pumpkin crafts and elegant table decor. These are perfect for early holiday prep or even a harvest-themed party any time of year.
What You’ll Learn at This Fall Crafting Event
During this fun and festive live, you’ll learn how to:
Craft adorable pumpkins using dried flowers
Design stunning place settings that will make your guests feel extra special with your Cricut, Silhouette Siser or favorite die-cutting machine
Add seasonal flair to your home with easy-to-make decorations
Use cut files and materials in new ways to elevate your DIY designs
These projects can turn simple supplies into impressive results.
Perfect for Crafting, Hosting, and Holiday Prep
This Thanksgiving in July Celebration YouTube Live is a great way to get ahead of the holiday rush, impress your guests, and maybe even create a few handmade gifts along the way.
With Carina and Julie guiding you step-by-step, you’ll come away with skills and inspiration to use again and again—for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Ready to craft your perfect fall table? Watch the full YouTube Live here:
Looking for the ultimate virtual creative conference to take your design or crafting business to the next level? The Design Suite Maker Conference is back for 2025 and it’s the can’t-miss online event of the year. This three-day free virtual event runs from September 9–11, 2025, featuring 35+ online classes designed for creatives, crafters, surface pattern designers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs. Whether you’re growing a handmade business or learning how to use your Cricut, Siser or Silhouette machine better, this event was made for you.
This free online conference is packed with creative energy, practical business tips, and hands-on tutorials. The event is hosted by Dr. Carina Gardner and her team, bringing together presenters who love the world of design, crafting, surface pattern art, digital illustration, die cutting, and more.
As a result, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped with real tools to grow your creative journey. Additionally, you’ll get access to helpful files and training that you can start using right away.
When is it happening?
September 9–11, 2025 Each day at the Design Suite Maker Conference, brand-new classes go live at 8 AM MT (10 AM ET), and you’ll have 24 hours to watch each one. That means you can learn on your schedule—coffee in hand, PJs on, creativity unlocked.
What You’ll Learn From the 35 Presenters:
Surface pattern design tutorials
How to use Illustrator, Procreate, and Canva for design
Cricut, Silhouette, and Siser die cutting projects
Crafting business strategies and Etsy shop tips
Creative time management for makers
Marketing for artists and designers
How to turn your hobby into a profitable business
And so much more
Whether you’re brand new to crafting or a pro looking for fresh ideas, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and project files to keep creating all year long.
Ready to join the fun?
Did we mention it’s free? Yep—three days, 35+ classes, zero cost.
Sign up now at https://www.designsuitecourses.com/maker2025 and get ready to design, craft, and connect your heart out. We are so thrilled that the Design Suite Maker Conference is back for 2025! You don’t want to miss it!
Want even more behind-the-scenes info and creative inspiration? Subscribe to Carina’s YouTube channel and watch for upcoming videos, tips, and updates about the Design Suite Maker Conference 2025:
Looking for a fun and spooky craft project to get ahead of Halloween? In our latest YouTube Live, Carina Gardner and guest Design Suite coach Aja are sharing how to make DIY Halloween treat boxes for Summerween and beyond!
Whether you’re prepping early for Halloween parties or just love seasonal crafting, this project is easy, creative, and totally adorable. Plus, Carina and Aja show up in costume to make it even more fun.
What Is Summerween?
Summerween is the perfect excuse to celebrate Halloween a little early—because why should spooky season only last one month? Think Halloween treats, costume fun, and haunted crafting vibes, all while it’s still warm outside.
This project brings the magic of Halloween into July (or any time you need a little frightful fun).
The Project: Halloween Stacking Box Set
In the live tutorial, Carina and Aja walk you through how to use Carina’s Halloween Stacking Box Set to create cute, spooky-themed treat boxes. These are perfect for:
Halloween party favors
Trick-or-treat handouts
Classroom gifts
Seasonal decor
Small treat packaging
And the best part? They’re compatible with Cricut, Silhouette, Siser, or any digital die-cutting machine.
Adding a Sweet Touch: Homemade Ginger Snap Cookies
As part of the fun, Carina and Aja also whipped up a batch of homemade ginger snap cookies—perfect for tucking inside their Halloween treat boxes. The spicy-sweet flavor of the cookies pairs beautifully with the packaging, making these goodies a delicious surprise for neighbors, teachers, or party guests.
This SVG set is easy to use and includes a haunted house design, pumpkin patch theme, and a spooky cemetery wrap—everything you need to give your treats a ghostly glow.
Watch the Full YouTube Live
Want to follow along and craft with us? You can watch the full video right here:
Don’t Miss More Crafty Fun
Make sure to subscribe to Carina’s YouTube channel for more tutorials like this one. We post weekly videos full of creative ideas, design inspiration, and digital crafting tips.
Want more seasonal projects? Check out our full archive of holiday-themed DIYs and design classes!
If you love cozy crafts and fall-inspired paper projects, this one’s for you! In this Make With Me live episode, I teamed up with guest designer and Design Suite alumna Kim Thomas to create a charming and beginner-friendly DIY fall greeting card using your favorite die cut machine.
Whether you’re using a Cricut, Siser, Silhouette, or another machine, this autumn card project will inspire you to cozy up with your cardstock and get creative!
Meet Kim Thomas
Kim is a talented designer and a graduate of our Design Suite program. Her work blends charm, color, and storytelling—making her the perfect guest for this fall crafting session. In this episode, she walks us through how to make her exclusive Fall Cozy Vibes Card, step by step.
What You’ll Need to Make This DIY Fall Greeting Card
3 sheets of 12×12 brown cardstock
1 sheet of 12×12 orange cardstock
1 sheet of 12×12 gold cardstock
Foam tape, foam squares, or dots
Glue
(Optional) Sketch pens for the sentiment
Want to use what I use? I get my favorite easy-to-cut cardstock at 12x12cardstock.shop/carina — and you can use code CARINA10 for 10% off!
Get the SVG File to Craft Along
Download the Fall Cozy Vibes Card SVG to follow along with us!
This DIY fall greeting card features beautiful layers, autumn tones, and that extra cozy charm that’s perfect for the season.
Want to Become a Designer Like Kim?
Join my nextDesign Bootcamp and start creating your own beautiful designs. It’s the best place to learn design skills, get feedback, and turn your creativity into a real business.
Whether you’re prepping for Fall, Thanksgiving, or just love seasonal papercrafts, this DIY fall greeting card is the perfect way to celebrate cozy vibes. Make a DIY Fall Greeting Card with Your Die Cut Machine and bring a little handmade charm to the season.
Who says you have to wait until October to enjoy a little spooky fun? Have you noticed that Halloween decorations and craft supplies are already showing up in stores? That’s your sign—it’s time to celebrate Summerween (celebrating Halloween in July). The perfect excuse to gather your ghoul-friends, break out the paper and fabric, and start crafting all things eerie and adorable under the summer sun.
Whether you’re dreaming up haunted houses or stitching up spooky quilts, there’s something extra delightful about celebrating Halloween early. Light some pumpkin-scented candles, cue up a Halloween playlist, and let’s get into the spirit.
Hosting Your Own Summerween Craft Night
Grab your favorite snacks (monster munch, anyone?), invite your craftiest friends, and spend the evening making fang-tastic Halloween projects. Paper lovers can dive into haunted houses, banners, treat boxes, and more with my Haunted Halloween Paper CraftseBook—featuring 10 downloadable SVG projects, full instructions, and cutting tips to help you create spooky paper magic.
If you’re more of a fabric fiend, don’t miss EEK BOO SHRIEK, the Halloween quilt eBook packed with 8 quilt blocks, quilt layout, a table runner, and a mini quilt—a must-have for any quilter looking to get ahead of the season!
Have you been working on any ghoulish creations this summer? Drop a comment below and share what spooky delights you’re crafting! Whether it’s a treat box, haunted banner, or Halloween quilt-in-progress—we’d love to see it.
So go ahead… pull out your pumpkins, cue the spooky vibes, and celebrate Halloween the summer way. Summerween has officially begun—and it’s the perfect time to craft something delightfully spooky before fall even arrives!
If you missed our recent Make With Me featuring Viveca Renee—you’re in for a treat! Carina was joined by the incredibly talented Viveca Renée for a fun and inspiring craft session where she walked us through the creation of her adorable 3D Bee & Strawberry Shadowbox Card.
Throughout the video, Carina chats with Viveca about her creative process, her design inspiration, and the joy of crafting live.
Meet Viveca
Art has always been at the heart of Viveca Renée’s life. Surrounded by creative women from a young age, she learned to paint, sew, quilt, cook, and craft—all of which helped shape her whimsical and highly detailed artistic style. A self-taught artist, Viveca believes creativity is a divine gift—meant to be nurtured and shared—and she brings that mission into every piece she makes.
If you’re looking for an uplifting dose of creativity, theMake With Me featuring Viveca Reneereplay is for you. Watch the magic unfold and let it inspire your next project! Check out the Youtube video below:
The Design Your Life Podcast – Featuring Coaches Unfiltered
If you’re a creative, designer, or someone building a business from your artistic passion, the Design Your Life Podcast was made for you. Once only available to Design Suite members and University of Art & Design students, this podcast is now open to the public through a monthly subscription. It’s packed with real, relevant conversations about design, growth, and building a business that fits your life. It’s easy to see Why Creatives Love this Podcast—each episode offers a mix of inspiration, strategy, and honest insights that speak directly to the heart of a creative business.
What You’ll Hear on the Podcast
Each week, Dr. Carina Gardner shares her personal design journey, breaks down industry trends, and offers actionable tips on everything from pricing your work to understanding how the economy affects your sales. Topics cover:
What’s working right now to generate revenue
How to adjust your marketing to stay competitive
Tools and strategies to help your designs stand out
Real talk about balancing life, business, and creativity
Whether it’s a mindset shift or a money move, each episode is designed to help you stay confident and focused as you build a profitable creative business.
Meet Our Favorite Segment: Coaches Unfiltered
One of the most-loved parts of the podcast is something we call Coaches Unfiltered. At the end of each episode, two of our Design Suite coaches jump in to share their honest take on the topic. They talk about how the episode helped them, what they’ve applied to their own journey, and how they’re supporting others through the same struggles
It’s honest. It’s helpful. And it adds a powerful second layer of perspective from creatives who are in the trenches every day.
Listeners have told us this is one of their favorite parts of the podcast—and we agree!
A Few Recent Must-Listen Episodes
Want a peek into the kind of conversations we’re having? Check out some of these recent episodes:
Episode 93: Reinvent Yourself
Episode 92: Asking the Right Questions
Episode 91: Bet on Me
Episode 90: 24 Hours of Yin and Yang
Episode 88: The Client Who Changed Everything
Start Listening Now
If you’re ready to get inspired, stay informed, and grow your creative business, it’s time to tune in. You’ll quickly understand Why Creatives Love this Podcast! It’s full of meaningful insights, practical tips, and real conversations that move your business forward. Start your Design Your Life Podcast subscription today and get instant access to past episodes, including instructions for listening on the Kajabi app or syncing with iTunes.
Have you ever dreamed of making money from your creativity—but didn’t know where to start? Design Bootcamp is your perfect first step, so come join me!
This 5-day live workshop is built for creatives who are ready to turn their passion into a real business. So whether you’re a crafter, quilter, hobbyist, or creative soul, Design Bootcamp will show you what’s truly possible.
Imagine having…
✔️ Flexibility – Schedule your own hours so you can work anywhere in the world ✔️ Freedom – Build a business and do what you love ✔️ Creativity – Design products that bring you joy and income ✔️ Confidence – Learn the skills to sell your designs successfully ✔️ Opportunity – Step into a world where your creativity becomes your career
Design Bootcamp is designed to help you take that first step with clarity and confidence. Because knowing exactly how to start and grow a design business makes all the difference.
What You’ll Learn in Just 5 Days
Day 1: The Ultimate Strategy for the Smart Designer Understand what actually works when building a creative business—and how to set a solid foundation.
Day 2: Five Strategies You Need to Build a Meaningful and Financially Lucrative Design Career Discover the tried-and-true methods that help designers thrive creatively and financially.
Day 3: Know the Holes in Your Creative Business & How to Fill Them Identify the gaps in your current approach so you can learn how to fix them with practical, focused strategies.
Day 4: Residual Income – Create Work That Keeps Paying You Learn how to generate ongoing revenue from your designs—even while you sleep.
Day 5: Build Distribution and Repurpose Your Art Multiply your reach by learning where and how to distribute your work.
Bonus Training: Choosing Your Own Marketable Products Get help identifying the right products so you can design and sell for your personal style and business goals.
Design Bootcamp is perfect for:
Creatives ready to explore a career in design
Crafters, quilters, and hobbyists who want to transition into professional design
Designers struggling to build a profitable creative business
Creatives looking for an encore career (with no desire to return to a traditional office)
Design Bootcamp is held live every month! You can join us for real-time inspiration, community, and momentum. Because we’re here to help you turn ideas into action.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start something new—this is it. Because this could change your life!
Sometimes a little spontaneity is just what you need… and that’s exactly how this Design Around the World- Disneyland trip happened! Josh and I booked a last-minute getaway to Disneyland in California—just the two of us—and it ended up being one of the BEST days ever!
We hit the parks running (literally!) and somehow managed to do 25 rides in one day, ate more Mickey-shaped snacks than I care to count, and stayed almost until closing at 11:15 pm.
Let’s just say—it was pure magic… and a little chaotic in the best way possible. Here’s the recap of that epic day:
Highlights + Hilarious Moments
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (aka Splash Mountain 2.0) We got soaked. Like, head-to-toe soaked. I was very offended by it. 😂 But also? TOTALLY worth it. It’s beautifully done and gave us one of the best laughs of the day.
Chewbacca Twin Moment Josh is 6’6″… and apparently the exact same height as Chewbacca. Who knew? It made for a hilarious photo op and a few confused kids thinking he was Chewbacca.
R.I.P. Mickey Ears #1 My beloved Mickey ears flew off on Guardians of the Galaxy (aka Tower of Terror). Don’t worry, I grabbed a new pair immediately. Josh even wore Mickey ears for the day too.
Snacks, Snacks, Snacks From Mickey beignets in the Rise of the Resistance line to a pink Mickey macaron, and of course, two churros (because it’s not a Disneyland trip without multiple churros). Our favorite? The guava cream cheese dip with a churro. Do not skip it.
Autopia Josh barely fit in the car (his knees were to his ears!), but it was a must-do for the laughs.
First-Time Experience
Even though we’ve been to Disneyland before, we did a couple of things we’d never done:
Tom Sawyer’s Island We took the raft over and explored the caves, rope bridges, and trails. It was honestly so fun and peaceful!
The Train Ride Why haven’t we done this before? It was such a cool way to see the park from a whole new angle.
Favorite Rides
Even though Josh really dislikes It’s a Small World, I couldn’t help but drag him on. I’m convinced the song is genius—it lives in your head forever.
We ended the night with a total classic: Peter Pan’s Flight. Pure nostalgia, and still magical even after a full day.
Full YouTube Episode Coming Soon!
We’re sharing our full day—from soaked shoes to magical night skies—in an upcoming episode on my YouTube channel. You can subscribe here so you don’t miss it: 👉 youtube.com/carinagardner
Disneyland without kids? 10/10 recommend. It felt like we were dating again, only with a lot more churros and Mickey ears involved.
Hope you enjoyed Design Around the World-Disneyland! Until the next stop in our Design Around the World adventures…
I’m so excited to invite you to my brand-new Make With Me Series, happening LIVE on my YouTube channel all summer long! I’ll be crafting with some of my favorite creative friends, and we want YOU to join in on the fun.
Each live session is a chance to hang out, get inspired, and make something together. Whether you’re painting, gluing, or glittering alongside us—or just watching with your favorite drink in hand—I promise you’ll walk away with fresh ideas and a big creative spark.
First Up: Brenna Powell
We kicked things off with the amazing Brenna Powell, who joined me for a live laser-cut painting challenge. Yep, we crafted in real time, and Brenna shared all kinds of helpful tips for painting laser-cut designs. It was so much fun watching her creative process unfold—I’m still thinking about all the clever little details she added!
Next up is the fabulous Tiffani Hawkins, and we’ll be making something sweet together—a Happy Birthday Cupcake Shaker Topper! This cute project is perfect for cupcakes, but you can totally size it up for a cake topper too. We’ll be crafting it LIVE, chatting, and sharing tips as we go!
I’ll be going live all summer long with more amazing guests and projects, and I’d love for you to join us. Make sure you’re subscribed to my YouTube channel so you don’t miss any of the fun. Each live has a different guest and project, so there’s always something new to try
Grab your craft supplies and come make with me—let’s create something magical together this summer!
Hosting a virtual creative conference might sound like a series of Zoom links and cute graphics, but behind the scenes? It’s a whirlwind of planning, creativity, chaos, and connection—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If you are wondering What It’s Like Behind the Scenes of a Virtual Creative Conference, this post is for you!
From the very beginning, these Design Suite events are built with one goal in mind: to pour inspiration, education, and encouragement into the creative community. But what does it really look like before the curtain rises and the cameras roll?
Let me take you behind the scenes…
The Prep: A Calendar Full of Color (and Deadlines!)
Weeks before a single class goes live, our team is deep in Google Docs, email threads, presentation recordings, design tweaks, and event timelines. Coordinating 30+ speakers and their freebies is no small feat! There are deadlines… and then there are designer deadlines (which sometimes involve bursts of brilliance at midnight).And yes, I may or may not have hit record three times on one presentation because the lighting was just not it.
The Magic: Real People, Real Community
One of my absolute favorite parts? Seeing creatives from around the world show up for each other. In our Event Community and live chats, you can feel the joy. Attendees share their work, ask questions, and cheer each other on. It’s like one giant creative hug.
And the speakers? Each one brings their A-game. We’ve had everything from how-tos on acrylic and UV resin to heartfelt sessions on pursuing art after 40. There’s something so powerful about women (and a few brave men!) showing up to teach what they’ve learned.
The Chaos: Wi-Fi Woes & Tech Gremlins
Of course, not everything goes perfectly. We’ve had presenters lose power mid-recording, links that didn’t work, and audio go mysteriously silent. (Don’t worry—we always figure it out.)
But here’s the thing: the imperfections are part of the charm. It’s real. It’s human. And it reminds us that progress beats perfection every single time
The Win: Watching YOU Light Up
At the end of every event, when the comments roll in and we see attendees launching their Etsy shops, selling their first products, or finally calling themselves “designers,” it’s all worth it. These events are more than conferences—they’re catalysts for dreams in motion.
Whether you’ve joined us for a past Design Suite event or you’re thinking about diving in next time, I hope you know this: you belong here. You don’t have to be “ready.” You just have to show up with your spark.
We’ll be waiting for you—with open arms and probably a mug of hot cocoa in hand. Want to catch up on past virtual conferences or grab an All Access Pass? Check out our Design Events page here!
If you’ve ever wondered What It’s Like Behind the Scenes of a Virtual Creative Conference, we hope this gave you a fun peek into the magic, mayhem, and meaningful moments that make it all worth it. Thanks for being part of the creative journey with us! Want even more behind-the-scenes and creative inspiration? Find Carina on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@carinagardner. Thanks for being part of the creative journey with us!
In one of our most heartfelt and fun YouTube Lives, we gathered some of our favorite makers and designers for a cozy chat all about books. In Crafters Who Love to Read, your book club meets craft night as we dive into the reads that have sparked our creativity, shifted our mindset, grown our businesses, and provided the perfect escape after a long day at the cutting mat.
Must-read books for creatives Life-changing reads that shaped our personal or professional journey Cozy books perfect for winding down Totally random picks we just couldn’t stop talking about
Whether you’re in a reading rut or already have a TBR stack taller than your Silhouette machine, this post is sure to spark your next favorite read. And yes, we’ve included all the links below so you can add them to your cart immediately (you’re welcome).
Our Bookish Favorites:
(Amazon affiliate links included. That means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you!)
A Night to Remember: Sleeping Under the Sea at the Georgia Aquarium
If you ever get the chance to sleep next to a beluga whale, do it. My daughter Felicity and I had the most unforgettable overnight experience at the Georgia Aquarium, and we’re still smiling about it! In this Design Around the World – Georgia Aquarium edition, I took my daughter Felicity on a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.
Felicity is absolutely obsessed with whale sharks (can you blame her?), so taking her to the only aquarium in the U.S. that houses these gentle giants was a dream come true. The Georgia Aquarium’s Ocean Voyager gallery is not only one of the largest single aquatic exhibits in the world. It was built specifically to house whale sharks. Talk about impressive!
Sleep Under the Sea: The Ultimate Aquarium Sleepover
We signed up for the Sleep Under the Sea overnight experience, which let us explore the aquarium after hours and even sleep right next to the exhibits. Our sleeping spot? The second level right in front of the beluga whales. Yes, we actually fell asleep to the sound of them clicking and talking to each other—it was magical.
Before we rolled out our sleeping bags, we got a few private behind-the-scenes tours, starting in the Ocean Voyager section. We not only saw the whale sharks up close (amazing!), but also learned all kinds of fun facts during interactive activities and Q&A sessions with the staff.
One of the most jaw-dropping things we learned: the whale sharks were flown from Taiwanto Alaska to Georgia on a UPS 747 jet, in a 30-hour journey. And get this—UPS did it for free. How cool and generous is that?
Design Lovers, Take Note
As a designer, I couldn’t help but geek out over the aquarium’s beautiful logos, fonts, and exhibit designs. Every space had its own visual identity, from the bold graphics of the shark exhibit to the playful elements in the children’s areas. It was like a visual feast, and the attention to detail in how the design tied into the experience was top-notch.
The central atrium made it easy to see all the exciting areas waiting to be explored—each one crafted with a different audience and vibe in mind. It was inspiring to see how smart design can enhance storytelling and learning.
Peaceful Giants and Quiet Moments
The next morning, before the crowds came in, we were lucky enough to get quiet time in front of the whale sharks. Just us and the fish, peacefully gliding by. It was such a calming and awe-inspiring moment—a rare chance to just watch and wonder.
Watch the Video
We captured some of our favorite moments and will be sharing them soon. You’ll want to see Felicity’s face the first time she saw the whale sharks—it’s priceless.Watch the full YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TrF3JrEv6I
If you’ve ever considered visiting the Georgia Aquarium, especially for one of their sleepovers, take this as your sign. It’s educational, inspiring, and a truly one-of-a-kind memory-maker. We’ll be talking about this night for years to come.
