Hello Lisa.

Welcome back to yet another edition of THE PENCIL CASE! Each issue focuses on a theme to encourage a fresh look at garden design and graphics. This week let's explore how we can make a CREATIVE WORKSPACE. ♥︎

YOUR CREATIVE WORKSPACE 

Having a cozy workspace to explore ideas for your garden is the best way to ignite your creativity amid a sense of calm. Imagine being in cozy chair, at a sweet desk with natural light pouring over it as you sketch dreamy outdoor spaces, explore plant possibilities or simply write in your daily garden journal.

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Establishing a workspace that inspires your imagination and lets your artistic talents bloom is an exciting step in the creative process. We know that setting aside a dedicated creative space can sometimes be a challenge, but whether you have the corner of a dining room, a spare room, or a transformed shed...any carved-out nook can be extra-special.

PIECING TOGETHER YOUR WORKSPACE

When organizing your workspace, consider the following elements to create a functional and inspiring environment: 

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DESK: Start with a spacious and sturdy desk or tabletop as your blank canvas. Choose one with ample surface area, preferably near a window with natural light. Remember, a happy desk means happy designs! FYI...I used my dining room table for years and still do at times.

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SEATING: Choose a comfortable chair that supports your back and encourages hours of creativity without strain. You can even throw in some plush cushions or a soft throw blanket to make your workspace cozy and inviting.

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LIGHTING: Ensure you have proper lighting to illuminate your workspace. Add a mix of ambient and task lighting, such as a stylish desk lamp or drafting table swing arm or clip-on lights. If you really want to set a happy mood and brighten your space, drape some string lights from the ceiling.

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DRAWING SUPPLIES: Gather any existing drafting tools and supplies—pencils, pens, erasers, rulers, t-square, templates, and markers. If you are like most of us, you already have a ‘collection’ of supplies. You can gather more in our DRAFTING SUPPLY CLUB class next month!  

ORGANIZATION: Stay organized with a bulletin or magnetic board to collect your sketches, ideas, and project timelines. A whiteboard can also serve as your creative roadmap to brainstorm and visualize designs. For your supplies, keep them neatly arranged in colorful holders or quirky containers to add a touch of fun to your workspace.

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INSPIRATION: Incorporate some greenery into your workspace with indoor plants or small potted succulents. Display some landscape prints, mood boards and past sketches to ignite your imagination and get your creative juices flowing.

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LIBRARY: If your space allows for it, create a small reading nook stacked with books on landscape design, color theory, design history, and fun styles. When you need a break from drawing, immerse yourself in these resources and let your imagination wander. If I get stuck, the pages of a book or illustrations in a favorite magazine will always break the spell. If you want to check out some of our favorite garden books, visit PAPER GARDEN WORKSHOP'S BOOK SHOP. 

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PERSONALIZE: Add a personal touch to your space with family photos, art prints, or quirky decorations that make you smile. Remember, a space that feels like you is a space where your inspiration thrives and creativity flows. 

LET'S DO THIS!

Do you have your own creative workspace? Please show it off on Instagram and tag me @paper.garden.workshop or hit reply to this email. I can't wait to see them!

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Our DRAFTING SUPPLY CLUB Class

We are excited to offer our second round of the DRAFTING SUPPLY CLUB this November. This course is a beautiful place to learn about the supplies we use to hand-draw our landscape plans, plus we include lists with links to make your shopping experience even easier. Three live classes will take place at noon US central time on November 19, 21 and 22. These will also be recorded. This class is also a great pre-curser (though not required) to Garden Graphics Tool Kit if you're someone that likes to plan ahead.

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Perhaps you'd like to dive into design now? Join us for 100 days of design tips with our 10x10 Series.

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All of our classes are located HERE if you'd like to keep up year round.

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If you know someone that would benefit from this newsletter, please feel free to share. They can subscribe right here. I also keep a VAULT of past issues in this secret location.

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Happy fall!

Lisa

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PAPER GARDEN WORKSHOP

Thanks to Mandy Orgler for preparing the images in this newsletter and MaryAnn Grapp for the awesome content on creative workspaces.