Tracey Rinaldo’s Creative Odyssey with Design Suite

Tracey Rinaldo, an entrepreneur and creative designer, met with Carina Gardner and discussed her path to profit with her small business being brought to life through the tips and tricks of Design Suite. Tracey has a unique story tailored to those who are already small business owners, creators of physical and digital art, and people who are looking for the resources necessary to take their creative dreams to the next level.

“My journey has kind of been long and twisted,” Tracey explains, “I’ve been a creative all my life, I just never followed it… This whole thing started with a hair bow, [my daughter and I] went to a little craft show, but I couldn’t let her just sell a hair bow, so I took a bunch of things that I was sewing and then after that I was like ‘I would really love to transition from what I’m doing now to being creative full-time, because this is where my heart is. So I didn’t know where to go, what to do, I just had my little small business side, but I knew I couldn’t replace my income with handmade stuff, I just didn’t have enough time in the day… So I took a few courses… somehow you just appeared, and then I started looking into it, and I was a little bit hesitant because I had been in other online courses and it was just like so many people, so busy… So I ended up in your bootcamp… you acknowledged me and I was like ‘what?!’… I had all the pieces except it was like my puzzle was missing something, and the missing something was selling things and getting off the ground that way. So it was just a bonus that your courses are amazing. I’m in Design Suite and the Mastermind and there are a zillion courses for everything, I seriously can do everything you’ve got.”

As Tracey continued to explain her starting story in the Design Suite program over the podcast, it was nothing short of remarkable. The passion and desire were there to do more with the small business she had started. That’s how she found success in Design Suite and how she started making money. 

“I started my business in 2022, so I spent that first year/year and a half just kind of floundering… and then it wasn’t until July that I took the bootcamp, so at the end of July is when I found you. And since July, it’s been a night and day difference,” Tracey states to Carina. Design Suite truly is the tool needed to give people that jumpstart and action on implementing their dreams to real life. Tracey found more effective ways of putting her business out there through the tips and tricks taught in the bootcamps and Design Suite programs.

Tracey also talks about the growth and experience gained from attending craft fairs.  “The only one that’s going to get me out there is me… Every show that I do I take something away from it,” she explains. At these fairs, she began to show and display her favorite designs to sell, the custom pet portraits. Tracey has always loved drawing animals, and choosing to further her business by making portraits for people has not only been extremely fun for her, but her target market benefits greatly from the personalized items they receive when they buy from her. Design Suite was able to give her that confidence to keep going to the shows, and even when no sales are made, to leave with more knowledge and insights gained from the people she has met. Her resilience and willingness to keep trying has brought her great fulfillment and success through her journey, and that really is the key. As Carina explains in the podcast, “You’re getting information faster than if you were on just a platform.” Those in person events prove determination to learn more and get your business out there.

Overall, Tracey Rinaldo’s interview on Carina Gardner’s podcast is a must-listen for anyone who is seeking the opportunity to make money off of their creative designs, and find ways to get their work seen by the world. Her story serves as a reminder that with dedication, resilience, and courage, anything is possible. Anyone can be a designer if they put their mind to it, and anyone can make money off of their creations if they are willing to put in the effort to make it happen. Design bootcamps and Design Suite are perfect resources to look into to make those dreams into realities!

If you want to see Tracey’s work, visit her website/etsy, or follow her, you can find her through the following links:

Interested in the bootcamp that helped Tracey take flight? Click here to learn more

If you want to watch the full podcast between Tracey and Carina here

Or listen the podcast here

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Top 10 Episodes: Insights and Strategies for Aspiring Designers and Entrepreneurs

During these videos Carina talks about the exciting world of creative entrepreneurship. Knowing your stuff can make all the difference! Whether you’re just starting out as a surface pattern designer or dreaming of  turning your hobbies into a business, soaking up wisdom from those who’ve been there can be a game-changer!

  1. Episode 118: Three Ways You Can Become The Best Surface Pattern Designer (That You Haven’t Heard Of)

Carina shares three super cool strategies to help budding surface pattern designers step up their game. What makes this video special? It’s packed with fresh ideas you probably haven’t heard before. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, this episode will inspire you and give you that extra push to become a top-notch designer. If you’re eager to boost your design skills, you won’t want to miss this!

  1. Episode 150: How Your Silhouette or Cricut Machine Could Be Making You Money

Ever dreamt of turning your hobbies into a money-making gig? Well, in this episode Carina talks about how you can do just that with your Silhouette or Cricut machines! From making custom goodies to creating unique designs, it dives deep into the many ways you can cash in on your creative side. Get inspired and motivated to turn your passion into cold, hard cash!

  1. Episode 167: How To Be a Surface Pattern Designer Without Going Back To College

If you’re feeling a bit unsure about diving into formal design education, don’t worry! In this episode, Carina’s got your back with loads of encouragement and down-to-earth tips. We’ll talk about the power of learning on your terms, building up those skills, and making the most of all the awesome stuff you can find online. Get ready to feel empowered to carve out your path in the exciting world of surface pattern design!

  1. Episode 186: Three Ways to Earn Money as a Surface Pattern Designer

Ready to explore the world of financial success? In this episode, Carina is diving into three awesome ways for surface pattern designers to make your creative work profitable! 

Whether it’s through licensing deals or freelancing gigs, we’ve got all the insider tips to help you boost your income and make the most of your talents. Get excited to learn how to maximize your earning potential and turn your passion into profit.

  1. Episode 260: What Prevents You from Creating

Hey there, ever find yourself stuck in a creative rut? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this episode, Carina is  diving deep into those pesky creative blocks that all designers and entrepreneurs face. Get ready to unleash your full creative potential and tackle any hurdle that comes your way!

                                                                                                                                                                                                        6. Episode 163: How To Start Your Surface Pattern Design Business

Starting your own business can feel like a big leap, but don’t worry – this episode answers all your questions! Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of surface pattern design or ready to dive in headfirst, Carina has you covered with all the tips and tricks you need. 

From nailing down your brand to spreading the word with savvy marketing, we’ll walk you through every step of the journey. Get ready to turn your dreams into reality with this comprehensive guide to launching your very own venture!

  1. Episode 204: Two Reasons Crafters Should Design for their Cricut and Silhouette Machines

Crafters possess a unique advantage when it comes to designing for cutting machines like Cricut and Silhouette. In this episode Carina highlights the symbiotic relationship between crafting and machine design, underscoring the potential for synergy and innovation in this market.

  1. Episode 261: Do You Have a Hobby or a Business?

Ever wondered about the difference between turning your hobby into a business? Well, in this episode, Carina dives into that topic! We’ll challenge you to see your creative passions from a business perspective, setting you up for success in making money and keeping things going strong for the long haul!

  1. Episode 275: Two Things That Will Make You a Great Designer

This episode delves into the two essential qualities that define exceptional designers: a willingness to innovate and a deep understanding of end-user needs. By prioritizing these aspects, aspiring designers can elevate their work to new heights.

  1. Episode 281: Zero to $100,000.00

Join Carina as she shares her inspiring journey of starting her own design business and reaching the impressive milestone of $100,000 in revenue. In this engaging episode, Carina opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned along the way, and the strategies that helped her achieve her goals.

To wrap it up, the top 10 episodes from this series are like a goldmine of tips and tricks for all you budding designers and entrepreneurs out there! Whether you’re looking to unleash your creative genius or figure out the ins and outs of running your own business, these episodes have got you covered. They’re jam-packed with wisdom and inspiration to help you kickstart your journey to success in the exciting world of design and entrepreneurship. So, get ready to dive in, soak up all the knowledge, and start making your dreams a reality!

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at DESIGN BOOTCAMP

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Turning Creativity into Cash: Simone Bowles’ Profitable Journey with Design Suite

Simone Bowles, a two-year Design Suite member, discusses with Carina Gardner about the incredible success and money she has made after joining the program in this podcast. She begins by talking about how she chose a career that was not quite creative enough for her.

Simone states, “I read this book by Julia Donaldson called the Artist’s Way, and she said that a lot of people who were creative go into careers that are almost creative.” In a world brimming with opportunities, the journey of fulfilling one’s creative and entrepreneurial aspirations can often feel like a daunting task. Simone took a leap of faith that many are afraid to do, leaving her past career and pursuing her creative dreams by joining the Design Suite program, tailored for aspiring designers who want to make money with their creations.

“In terms of actual graphic design, I knew nothing,” Simone explains, “I came from a world that was so different. [I felt like] the imposter, like ‘how am I going to do this?’ …But then I [remembered] that they chose me for a reason… It grew me in so many ways… and if you were to ask me the year before ‘would I do freelance graphic design’, it would be a definite no… I thought it would be so hard.”

Simone went into the program with hardly any experience of creative design. However, as the process went on for her, passion was ignited, breathing life into her artistic visions. She quickly found a love for what she was doing. She explained that, “This is for me, I want all of the things,” as the program went on for her. After the first year of the program, there was so much that Simone learned. She felt the strong desire to continue for another year, allowing her to make lots of money from this. “Honestly I feel like I can call myself a designer now… once you do, the jobs come!” Opportunity was met with hard work, and Simone’s work took off.

When talking about her success, Simone stated, “Just be open to the path that [comes] to you. If you try to go down one road you get so much resistance… I made the money within my second year [of the program]… I made enough to pay for the kids’ school tuition which isn’t cheap… and that was in my second year!”

 

 

After the decision was made to pursue this dream of Simone’s, she was rewarded. Design Suite is the catalyst for inspiration to make money, and Simone did just that in her second year of the journey. She was extremely grateful and emotional over the success she has reaped in the podcast when explaining the money she made to pay for the tuition of her kids’ educations. You truly get what you pay for when you join the Design Suite courses, along with opportunity and fulfillment bursting at the seams.

Not only did Simone make a great amount of money, she also built incredible relationships with those in the Design Suite community, which is huge. Simone goes on to say, “It’s key… I just know people I can go to who are now friends of mine… in the sewing world… in the patent world… in the papercraft world… that is gold.” She continues by saying, “There’s so many things [that make Design Suite good value]… It really is the community and the information… Design Suite has those supports.”

From all across the globe, there are members of the Design Suite program, and these members build one another up, offer advice, help, and friendship, taking things to a more meaningful level through this program. This brings that human connection that is missing in a lot of programs.

 

The opportunities are endless when becoming a member of Design Suite and embarking on the journey, allowing for personal and professional growth. The program serves as a catalyst for self-discovery, empowering individuals to leverage their strengths and carry out their niches in the creative landscape. Simone Bowles is an excellent example of this coming to reality.

 

To access Simone’s business and creations, you can follow her on Instagram: @_simonebowles_  or find her on Etsy: SBPARTYPRINTABLES.

If you want to watch the entire interview with Simone here:  

 

Or listen to the podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2040698/14510635-episode-415-making-money-as-a-designer-with-simone-bowles.mp3?download=true

 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Happy Birthday Cactus Crayon Card

How cute is this card!  It’s super easy and fun to make.  With just a few pieces to cut, this project is quick and easy for the kiddos to make too!  

What you need

  • Silhouette or Cricut Machine
  • May 2023 files (provided)
  • Cardstock
  • Glue stick
  • Crayons

Many of the items I used I have archived in my influencer store on Amazon here if you want the exact product: https://www.amazon.com/shop/carinagardner


 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

3D Succulent Wreath Tutorial

It’s so easy to make this wreath with just a few simple supplies.  This month’s bundle has 115 Cacti and Succulent theme designs that are perfect for crafting all year long!!  Download it today and have fun!  

What you need

  • Silhouette or Cricut Machine
  • Cardstock (Check my Amazon link for the links)
  • Wreath (Styrofoam or Wire)
  • May 2023 files (provided)
  • Hot Glue Gun and Glue

Many of the items I used I have archived in my influencer store on Amazon here if you want the exact product: https://www.amazon.com/shop/carinagardner


 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

3D Trio of Succulents Tutorial

How fun and trendy are these!  With some cardstock and hot glue you can add a little southwestern flare to your decor.  Download the Inkclub bundle today and get creative! 

What you need

  • Silhouette or Cricut Machine
  • Cardstock (Check my Amazon link for the links)
  • May 2023 files (provided)
  • Hot glue gun and glue

Many of the items I used I have archived in my influencer store on Amazon here if you want the exact product: https://www.amazon.com/shop/carinagardner


 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

April 2023 Ink Club Tutorials

Last month we came out with our new bundle and it is now available in our store. Past bundles can always be purchased from our shop

Please know that our best pricing is always to our Ink Club Membership!

To join the membership, you can download the ink club app onto your phone from the Google Play or iTunes Apps. Just search “Ink Club.” You can also sign up on your computer here: https://ink-club.passion.io/.

Use the same sign in to go back and forth between your computer and phone to watch the new tutorials and download the new bundle each month!

 

We provide the tutorials and past bundles to those of you who still want to get these products at an insanely great price! Normally this bundle would be purchased from my other shops for $50- $150. So even past bundles are a steal of a deal!

 

Here are this bundles tutorials!

Introduction to April 2023 Ink Club

 

Room Makeover

 

Botanical Art Vinyl Tutorial

 

Botanical Heat Transfer Tutorial

 

April Bundle Promo

 

Join the membership for the current bundle at just $4.99 a month for your Cricut and Silhouette machine.

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Introduction to May 2023 Ink Club

May 2023 Ink Club Bundle is inspired by cacti and Succulents. There’s a little inspiration for Cinco de Mayo this month.

You will love all the 3D projects we have for you including a succulent wreath and coloring card.

This bundle is only $4.99 through our monthly membership on our Ink Club App for May 2023. After that you can find this bundle for the regular price on carinagardner.com.

Hope you enjoy this month’s amazing bundle of goodies that would normally cost you over $100 to get! I can’t wait to see what you make with this!

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

May 2023 Ink Club Bundle is full of Cacti and Succulents!

Many of the projects in the May 2023 Ink Club Bundle were made for a bridal shower I did years go for my sister-in-law. This huge cacti and succulent bundle of Cricut and Silhouette files for our $4.99 membership is a great way to add a little fun to any party or art decor idea.

Download the App to join our membership. Each Ink Club Cricut and Silhouette bundle is worth over $100 and comes with tutorials for great ways to use the files. 

Stay inspired by downloading the app on iTunes or Google play. This bundle is only available for this month at this low price. Buy past bundles for $9.99 at carinagardner.com or my etsy shop.

 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

May Ink Club is Succulents and Cacti Overload!

I’m so excited to introduce the Ink Club bundle this month! Here’s what we are up to:

  1. 3D Trio of Succulents.   Create this super easy 3D trendy project from this month’s bundle.
  2. 3D Succulent Wreath.   Check out this project!  This Succulent Wreath is a versatile project that can be put on just about any size wreath or a frame too! Have fun with it!
  3. Happy Birthday Cactus Crayon Card.  Look at this Birthday Card!  Not only is it super adorable, it’s effortless and fun to give!
  4. Your Zip Downloads   This month’s bundle includes 115 designs!  

 

As always, you can download the ink club app onto your phone from the Google Play or iTunes Apps. Just search “Ink Club.” You can also get it on your computer here: https://ink-club.passion.io/.

Use the same sign in to go back and forth between your computer and phone to watch the new tutorials and download the new bundle each month!

Joining the membership is just $4.99 a month for $50-$100 worth of designs for your Cricut and Silhouette machine. Past bundles can be purchased from our shop. Please note that our BEST price is always to our membership!

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Heat Transfer Vinyl Pillow Cover Tutorial

This is a super easy and super fun way to spruce up any room.  This month’s Botanical Bundle has so many options I’m sure you’ll find the perfect set for your room. 

What you need

  • Silhouette or Cricut Machine
  • Heat Transfer Vinyl  (Used Pink, White, Green, Yellow and Black)
  • Pillow Covers (Check out my influencer store on Amazon for covers)
  • April 2023 files (provided)
  • Weeding Tool
  • Iron or heat press

Many of the items I used I have archived in my influencer store on Amazon here if you want the exact product: https://www.amazon.com/shop/carinagardner

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Botanical Art Vinyl Tutorial

This Botanical Art Vinyl project is so easy!  Just cut, transfer and frame! Whether you’re looking to add a botanical theme to your room or even a few inspirational quotes, this month’s bundle has it all.  Download it today and get creative! 

What you need

  • Silhouette or Cricut Machine
  • Vinyl (Check my Amazon influencer store for vinyl)
  • Mat Boards with Frames
  • April 2023 files (provided)
  • Weeding Tool
  • Transfer Tape

Many of the items I used I have archived in my influencer store on Amazon here if you want the exact product: https://www.amazon.com/shop/carinagardner

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

April 2023 Ink Club Bundle Promo

I did this super fun room makeover for my daughter while she was out of town. All the art work comes from my Apri 2023 Ink Club, and you are going to love it!! This huge botanical bundle of Cricut and Silhouette files for our $4.99 membership is perfect for this spring month!

Download the App to join our membership. Each Ink Club Cricut and Silhouette bundle is worth over $100 and comes with tutorials for great ways to use the files. You can also find past bundles at my website at carinagardner.com.

Stay inspired by downloading the app on iTunes or Google play. This bundle is only available for this month so check out the description for a link to the app.

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

March Ink Club Tutorials

Last month we came out with our new bundle and it is now available in our store. Past bundles can always be purchased from our shop

Please know that our best pricing is always to our Ink Club Membership!

 

To join the membership, you can download the ink club app onto your phone from the Google Play or iTunes Apps. Just search “Ink Club.” You can also sign up on your computer here: https://ink-club.passion.io/.

 

Use the same sign in to go back and forth between your computer and phone to watch the new tutorials and download the new bundle each month!

 

We provide the tutorials and past bundles to those of you who still want to get these products at an insanely great price! Normally this bundle would be purchased from my other shops for $50- $150. So even past bundles are a steal of a deal!

 

Here are this bundles tutorials!

 

Introduction to March 2023 Ink Club

 

High Weave Easter Basket Tutorial

 

Dream Big Pencil Bag Tutorial

 

Engraving Necklace Tutorial

 

March 2023 Bundle Promo

 

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

April 2023 Ink Club is All About Botanicals

I’m so excited to introduce the Ink Club bundle this month! Here’s what we are up to:

  1. Botanical Vinyl Artwork Tutorial.  Make cute framed art work with vinyl to spruce up any wall in your home or office! One of Carina’s $24.99 ultimate projects that you are getting exclusively because you are an Ink Club Member!
  2. Botanical Pillow Heat Transfer Tutorial.  Create amazing pillows from this month’s bundle following Carina’s super easy heat transfer vinyl project and add a little bit of spring to your home decor!
  3. Room Makeover.  Get inspired with Carina’s before and after room makeover of her daughter’s bedroom using this month’s bundle!
  4. Your Zip Downloads This month’s bundle includes 93 Botanical designs for your spring inspired projects! 

 

As always, you can download the ink club app onto your phone from the Google Play or iTunes Apps.  Just search “Ink Club.”

You can also get it on your computer here: https://ink-club.passion.io/

Use the same sign in to go back and forth between your computer and phone to watch the new tutorials and download the new bundle each month!

Joining the membership is just $4.99 a month for $50-$100 worth of designs for your Cricut and Silhouette machine.  Past bundles can be purchased from our shop. Please note that our BEST price is always to our membership!

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores