The Cleverest Way to Save Big on My Sketchbook Course! 🎨📖
In this episode, I share a brilliant way for you to get the biggest discount ever on my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course! By combining the waitlist discount and my creative community membership, you can save £62—which means you get two months of my community for free while taking the course. It’s a win-win!
Join the email waitlist for £25 off: www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
Become a community member for an extra 20% (£37) savings: www.makingsandmusings.com/community
Follow me for more creative inspiration:
🌿 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
🎨 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings
Sketchbook Series – How to Develop Your Own Sketchbook Style
Finding your own artistic style can feel overwhelming, but here’s the secret—it happens naturally over time! In this episode, I’ll talk about what "style" really means, why you don’t need to force it, and how your sketchbook is the perfect place to explore and experiment. I’ll also share examples of famous artists whose styles evolved and why it’s completely okay for your own style to change too.
✨ Takeaway: Your style isn’t something you choose overnight—it’s something that grows with you. The best way to find it? Keep creating!
🎨 Challenge: Flip through your old sketchbooks and notice what you’re naturally drawn to. Then, try something new today and see how it feels!
📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:
🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com
📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings
You can now join the waitlist to my new course, Fill your first sketchbook in 30 days here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
Sketchbook Series – The Difference Between a Sketchbook and a Finished Artwork
Do you ever feel like every page in your sketchbook needs to be "good"? In this episode, I’m exploring the important difference between a sketchbook and a finished artwork. Your sketchbook isn’t meant to be perfect—it's a space for play, practice, and exploration. I’ll share how great artists have used their sketchbooks, why process matters more than product, and how to let go of perfectionism so you can truly enjoy your creative journey.
✨ Takeaway: Your sketchbook is for YOU. Give yourself permission to experiment, make mistakes, and embrace the joy of creating without pressure.
🎨 Challenge: Today, take 5-10 minutes to fill a sketchbook page without worrying about the outcome. Just play!
📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:
🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com
📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings
You can sign up to my new course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
In this episode of our Sketchbook Series, I delve into the profound mental health benefits of maintaining a sketchbook. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, I share how the simple act of sketching has been a therapeutic outlet for me, aiding in processing emotions and reducing stress.
You can find my Sketchbook Course here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
While I'm not a healthcare professional, numerous studies support the positive impact of creative activities on mental well-being. Here are five insightful studies highlighting these benefits:
Art Therapy's Role in Mental Health: This study discusses how art therapy can improve concentration, boost self-esteem, and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels.
Link: https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/art-mental-health-well-being-benefits-practicing-art-frank
Creative Arts Therapies and Mental Health: Research indicates that engaging in creative arts therapies can enhance focus, assist with processing emotions, and improve overall mental health.
Link: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/the-intersection-of-art-and-health-how-art-can-help-promote-well-being
The Arts' Contribution to Mental Well-being: This article explores how participating in the arts enables individuals to manage various mental health conditions and psychological distress.
Link: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-health
Art Therapy's Effectiveness in Treating Trauma: A systematic review found that art therapy can be effective in treating traumatized adults, aiding in processing traumatic experiences and reducing related symptoms.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553778
Creative Arts Enhancing Mental Health: An analysis of multiple studies found that art-based interventions significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in pregnant and postpartum women.
Link: https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/creative-arts-enhancing-mental-health
Follow me for more creative inspiration:
Instagram: @makingsandmusings
Facebook: Makings and Musings
Website: makingsandmusings.com
In this episode of the Sketchbook Series, Irene Ruby explores the different types of sketchbooks available and helps you choose the right one for your creative journey. From watercolour sketchbooks to mixed-media options, she shares her personal recommendations and tips on what to look for when picking the perfect sketchbook. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this episode will guide you in finding the ideal sketchbook for your needs.
Check out my Course: fill your first sketchbook in 30 days:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
Follow Irene and Makings and Musings on social media for more inspiration and updates:
In this episode, I share practical ways to find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, everyday objects, or simple moments, creativity starts with observation. Tune in for tips on cultivating curiosity, turning small details into art, and mindful challenges to spark your imagination.
Follow me for more creative inspiration:
Instagram: @makingsandmusings
Facebook: Makings and Musings
Website: makingsandmusings.com
Find the sketchbook course waitlist here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
In this episode, I explore how legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci, J.M.W. Turner, and Frida Kahlo used their sketchbooks as tools for creativity, experimentation, and self-expression. We dive into their methods, inspirations, and what their sketchbooks reveal about their artistic journeys.
Want to see these sketchbooks yourself? Here are links to some incredible resources:
Feeling inspired? My new course, Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days, is now open for sign-ups! The course is designed to help you start sketching with confidence and turn it into a daily habit. It opens on the 1st March and is packed with daily prompts, video lessons, and live sessions. Learn more and join here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/fill-your-first-sketchbook-in-30-days
Let me know your thoughts! Connect with me on:
Happy sketching, and enjoy the episode!
Struggling to find time for your creativity? In this episode of the Makings and Musings podcast, I share practical tips on how to make art part of your daily life—even if you only have 10 minutes a day. Learn why those small moments of creativity can make a big difference and how to build an art habit that sticks.
Plus, hear all about my upcoming course, Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days, designed to help you kickstart your creative journey with daily prompts, videos, and live sessions. The course opens for sign-ups on 1st March—don’t miss it!
🎨 Learn more about the course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
🌐 Explore my website: makingsandmusings.com
📸 Follow me on Instagram: @makingsandmusings
👍 Join me on Facebook: Makings and Musings
Let’s make time for creativity, one sketch at a time!
🎨 Podcast Episode: Adding Colour to Your Sketches 🎨
In this episode of the Sketchbook Series, I share tips and techniques for adding colour to your sketches. From choosing the right tools to experimenting with vibrant hues, this episode is perfect for anyone wanting to bring their sketches to life.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to rediscover your creative spark, this episode will help you embrace colour with confidence.
✨ Want to dive deeper into your sketchbook journey? My course Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days starts on 17th March! Learn more and sign up here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
📲 Connect with me:
This episode focuses on the power of black and white drawing – the foundation of Week 1 of my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course, launching in March. Learn how to embrace simplicity and the beauty of ink and pencil drawings while building a daily art practice that can bring calm and clarity to your life.
Join me each week as I guide you through fun and easy steps to help you create art every day. Whether you’re drawing for mental health, relaxation, or personal expression, this series will help you build confidence and fill your sketchbook with meaningful art.
Sign up for the course waitlist now:
👉 Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days - Waitlist: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
Watch my black and white sketchbook tours for inspiration:
👉 Inktober Sketchbook Tour: https://youtu.be/ifOwO1yvtFQ?si=Kf8oXPBPCtrt6FoA
👉 100 Heads in Pen Sketchbook Tour:
https://youtu.be/TVSxDe2VHB4?si=RMV6R2CDhElH-MHf
Follow me on social media for more updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes content:
👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings
How to Start and Enjoy Your Sketchbook Journey
Have you ever been stuck staring at a blank page, too afraid to start because you're worried about ruining your sketchbook? I’ve been there too. In this episode, I share my journey from fearing the white page to embracing the joy and freedom of sketchbooking. You’ll learn practical tips to overcome perfectionism, use simple materials, and start creating today—whether you're completely new to art or looking for a fresh perspective.
Sketchbooking is for everyone. It’s not about being “good” at art—it’s about self-expression, creativity, and keeping a visual journal of your life. We’ll explore how to make sketching a habit, even in just 10 minutes a day, and how a sketchbook can be a safe, private space or a way to share your art with the world.
Ready to start your sketchbook journey? Join the waitlist for my upcoming course, Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days, and discover how to fill your pages with confidence and joy.
👉 Waitlist for the course: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
👉 Visit my website: https://www.makingsandmusings.com
👉 Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
👉 Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings
Let’s make art together! 🎨
Why Keeping a Sketchbook Will Change Your Art Practice.
In this episode, I share why keeping a sketchbook is a game-changer for any artist. Whether you’re just starting out or have been creating for years, a sketchbook is more than just a place to draw—it’s where you can experiment, grow, and build confidence. I’ll talk about how sketching daily can help you break through creative blocks, track your progress, and find your artistic voice. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Check out my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/fill-your-first-sketchbook
Stay connected and share your journey:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings
In this episode of the Makings and Musings Podcast, I sit down with Hannah Ashe, an interior designer with a fascinating journey from being a music teacher to launching her own design business. We chat about the twists and turns of career change, the importance of balancing work with personal creativity, and the ways we both embrace creative expression in our lives.
Hannah shares how she transitioned from teaching music for 16 years to following her passion for interior design, how she integrates her love of natural materials into her work, and why working with period properties brings her joy. We also touch on creative confidence, mindful spending, and making work work for us rather than the other way around!
We also explore:
The power of creativity as therapy and self-expression
Trying different creative pursuits and learning from them
The importance of natural light in workspaces and wellbeing
Interior design as a tool for personal expression, not just decoration
Navigating finances and business growth as creative entrepreneurs
If you’re considering a career shift, finding your own creative voice, or simply love hearing how others embrace their creativity, this episode is for you!
Connect with Hannah Ashe:
Website:www.hannahashe.co.uk
Newsletter:Sign up here
Email:info@hannahashe.co.uk
Connect with Irene Ruby & Makings and Musings:
Website:www.makingsandmusings.com
Facebook:Makings and Musings
Instagram:@makingsandmusings
YouTube:Makings and Musings
Join the community:£15/month membership
Enjoy the episode, and let us know your thoughts!
In this episode of theMakings and Musings podcast, I share a personal story from my Solo travels in China over 15 years ago that shaped not only my perspective on life but also my creative journey.
Join me as Ireflect on a challenging night spent alone in a foreign city, with no internet, no phone, and only her resilience to rely on. From finding unexpected kindness in strangers to learning the value of persistence, this story highlights how we can turn setbacks into creative fuel.
Tune in for a heartfelt and inspiring reminder that even in the darkest moments, creativity and growth can flourish.
Links:
Enjoy the episode, and let me know your thoughts!
🎨 10 Tips to Start a Creative Practice in 2025 🌟Are you ready to start or refresh your creative journey this year? In this episode, I’m sharing 10 practical tips to help you build a sustainable and fulfilling creative practice. Whether you’re a beginner or returning to art after a break, these tips will inspire you to pick up your tools and get started today!From finding time in a busy schedule to overcoming self-doubt, I’ll guide you through simple, mindful steps to make creativity a regular part of your life.💬 Let me know your favourite tip in the comments! Have a question? I’d love to hear from you.✨ Join My Online Community: Connect with creatives worldwide for just £15/month!🔗 Sign up here🎥 Watch more tutorials and tips on my YouTube channel:🔗 Subscribe here📸 Follow me on Instagram for daily art inspiration:🔗 Instagram💻 Visit my website for courses and resources:🔗 Website👍 If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your fellow creatives!Let’s make 2025 your most creative year yet. 🌈🖌 About Me:Hi, I’m Irene Ruby, a full-time artist and art educator passionate about helping people embrace creativity. From mindful art practices to detailed techniques, I love supporting you in your artistic journey.#CreativePractice2025 #ArtTips #MakingsAndMusings
It was a delight to be invited to talk with Ste Greenall about Makings and Musings on Your Voice on Black Cat Radio. https://blackcatradio.org/members/ste-greenall/We spoke about my Move to the UK, How I started making art and why I started Makings and Musings and how making art is great for our mental health and wellbeing. It was a lovely surprise to do the show live in the studio too!
If you are curious about my art classes or artwork you can find out more here website: www.makingsandmusings.com
•https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings •https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings •https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings_Studio
Welcome to another episode of the Makings and Musings Podcast!
Today, I am thrilled to have a chat with the talented Karen Abend.
Karen is not only an amazing artist but also the founder of Sketchbook Revival. She has a passion for creativity and loves helping others discover their artistic side.
In this episode, Karen shares her journey, insights, and the joy of keeping a sketchbook. Whether you are a seasoned artist or just starting, you will find Karen's wisdom inspiring.
You can find Karen Abend online at:
Karen's Website where you can find our more about sketchbook revival: https://www.karenabend.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenabend/
For those who are new here, the Makings and Musings community is all about celebrating art and creativity. We offer tips, tutorials, and a warm, supportive environment for artists of all levels. Join us and become part of our creative family!Visit our website and follow us on social media:
Makings and Musings Website: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
Tune in, get inspired, and keep creating!
Happy listening!
Irene
The Music used in this video is from Bensound
Hello everyone, my name is Irene, welcome to the Makings and Musings podcast. I’m a full-time artist and illustrator, and I’m here to help you start and grow your creative practice. In this episode, I want to give you some tips on how to begin drawing and make art a part of your daily life.
Many people think you need special talents or expensive supplies to start drawing, but that’s not true. Let’s debunk that myth together.
First, keep it simple. Look around your house for supplies you already have. When choosing paper, start with a small sketchbook. It’s less overwhelming and easier to fill. The paper should feel nice to draw on. For pencils and pens, start with a basic graphite pencil or a ballpoint pen. You can always add more materials as you become more comfortable.
Integrate drawing into your daily routine. Carry a small sketchbook with you and draw during your commute or while watching TV. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just make a little sketch every day. This helps build a habit and keeps you engaged.
Pick a topic you love. Maybe it’s flowers, your pet, or something from your childhood. Use reference photos from sites like Unsplash or Pixabay, or even from your own phone. Remember, it’s okay to start with photos.
When drawing, focus on large shapes first. Don’t get bogged down by details too soon. This helps with proportions and makes your drawing process smoother. Squinting at your reference can help you see these big shapes more clearly.
Remember, drawing is a skill that takes practice. Most artists aren’t born with the ability to draw perfectly; they learn and improve over time. Practice regularly, and don’t be discouraged by early efforts.
Finally, keep a sketchbook. It’s a great way to track your progress. Don’t worry about making it perfect. Use it as a place to experiment and learn. I’ll share some images from my own sketchbook to show you that it’s okay to have messy pages.
So, start simple, find joy in the process, and draw a little every day. Happy drawing!
You can find me on all social media platforms as @makingsandmusings my website is www.makingsandmusings.com and my community is here: www.makingsandmusings.com/community
Hello, art lovers! Welcome to another episode of our podcast. If you want to learn how to draw, this episode is just for you!
Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Emily. Emily is an artist with a passion for creativity and a wealth of experience in the world of art.
In our chat, we dive into the magic of making art every day, the joys of keeping a sketchbook, and some fantastic tips for all of you who love to paint and draw. Emily shares her journey, her inspirations, and some wonderful stories that will surely inspire you to pick up your brushes and start creating.
Emily is also creating some amazing art courses and building an online sketch community, just like I am. Together, we're committed to bringing you the best resources and support to help you thrive in your artistic journey.
So, grab your favorite cup of tea, get cozy, and join us for a delightful conversation filled with creativity and inspiration. Let’s get started!
You can find Emily here:
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilymoncuit
Website: https://emilysnotebook.learnworlds.com/home
Scratch to Sketch Hub: https://emilysnotebook.learnworlds.com/subscription/scratch-to-sketch-hub-membership-may-2024
In the Makings and Musings Podcast I talk about all things creative! I talk about my own journey as an artist and course creator and I interview other creatives to learn about their creative businesses!
If you want to start painting and drawing, Have a look at my collection of painting and drawing courses or consider joining my online creative community:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/
You can try one of my classes for free here: http://events.makingsandmusings.com/free-class
You can also connect with me on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings
Thank you for listening,
Irene
Embark on a creative journey with me as I share the wisdom gained from five years of daily drawing. In this podcast, discover the joy of consistent artistic expression, valuable insights into the world of art, and practical tips for maintaining a daily drawing habit. Join me on this artistic adventure and unlock the secrets to enhancing your creativity. What I learned from drawing every day for five years? I will tell you all about it in this episode.
In the Makings and Musings Podcast I talk about all things creative! I talk about my own journey as an artist and course creator and I interview other creatives to learn about their creative businesses! If you want to start painting and drawing, Have a look at my collection of painting and drawing courses or consider joining my online creative community:https://www.makingsandmusings.com/You can try one of my classes for free here: http://events.makingsandmusings.com/free-classYou can also connect with me on social media:Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusingsThank you for listening, Irene
