A Personal Note on Gratitude and Creativity

This Thanksgiving weekend, I’m pausing to reflect on creative growth, community, and gratitude. One thing I’m especially thankful for is being part of Bonnie Christine’s creative community. Because of her encouragement, resources, and the space she cultivates for artists, I felt empowered to submit my work to a design brief. That leap led me to a beautiful collaboration with Little Cocalico, and I want to share the experience with you.

Earlier this year, I submitted my artwork to an art call hosted by Little Cocalico, a family-owned company that creates wallpaper, fabric, and home décor. Though I doubted whether my designs were quite ready for the world, I pushed forward and I’m so glad I did.

My artwork was chosen for a new wallpaper, fabric and home decor collection, which I’m calling Petals in Print. This collaboration has felt like a dream coming to life, and I’m excited to walk you through the journey.

Taking the Leap: From Idea to Submission

For this collection, the brief called for cottage-inspired designs. I found myself inspired by quiet walks, tucked-away gardens, and the little joys of nature. I wanted my work to feel like a soft, inviting pause in a busy day, capturing delicate florals, leafy vines, and buzzing bees in a hand-pressed, linocut style.

Stepping into something that felt intimidating taught me that sometimes, all it takes is a small act of courage to create something truly meaningful.

Designing Petals in Print: From Sketch to Surface Pattern

Once I knew my designs were selected, I was so excited! I wanted each piece to feel handcrafted and personal, with the warmth and heritage charm of traditional linocut prints, while still fitting into modern homes.

The motifs for Petals in Print are full of life: florals that seem to bloom with movement, leafy vines that weave naturally across the page, and playful bees adding little touches of whimsy. The collection carries a handcrafted feel that invites quiet moments of beauty into daily life.

Bringing the Collection to Life

Seeing these designs in real-world applications has been magical. Petals in Print is now available on wallpaper, fabric, and home décor items like pillow covers and tea towels. It’s thrilling to see illustrations that started on paper become part of everyday spaces, a visual reminder that creativity can transform homes and hearts.

Each piece in this collection feels personal, warm, and inviting, designed to bring the gentle beauty of gardens and nature indoors.

Lessons Learned: Courage and Creativity

Through this journey, I’ve learned that taking small steps, even when something feels intimidating, can open doors you didn’t expect. Creativity isn’t about waiting for perfect confidence; it’s about showing up and letting the work speak.

For me, collaborating with Little Cocalico has been a reminder that vulnerability can lead to something beautiful. It’s a lesson I hope can inspire others, no matter your creative path.

Where to Explore Petals in Print

If you’d like to see the full Petals in Print collection, you can browse wallpaper, fabric, and home décor pieces through Little Cocalico. From cozy pillow covers to charming wallpaper panels, it’s a world where illustrations meet everyday life.

Thank you for letting me share this journey with you. Whether you’re an artist, a creative soul, or someone who just appreciates beauty in everyday life, I hope Petals in Print brings a little warmth and inspiration into your home.