I recently had the pleasure of revisiting an unforgettable off-grid sanctuary experience at Outpost X, and I'm excited to share our adventure in my latest "Design Around the World" video. A couple of years ago, I supported their Kickstarter campaign. We finally were able to book the experience and I made you a video to boot!

You can watch the entire youtube video I did on this experience here: (link).

Get ready for LOTS of wind because my video is full of windy moments :). 

https://youtu.be/XEkv0bt02Cs

Location and Journey

Outpost X is nestled in the desert near Cedar City, Utah, roughly five hours from Salt Lake City. We embarked on this adventure in January, and while deserts are often associated with heat, the winter months were surprising chilly. Like 7 to 1 degrees chilly! In my YouTube video (link), I share the specific temperatures we encountered during our off-grid sanctuary experience.

About Outpost X

Outpost X, located in Beryl, Utah, is known as a "cinematic off-grid sanctuary." Just 1.5 hours west of Zion National Park, this retreat offers guests a chance to disconnect from the demands of daily life. Spanning 100 acres of desert landscape, Outpost X provides both solitude in private accommodations and opportunities for social interaction in its immersive village. It’s the ultimate off-grid sanctuary experience.

Activities and Experiences

Outpost X offers a variety of activities to enhance the secluded sanctuary experience:

• Sand Cruisers: Custom-built vehicles for touring the expansive property.
• BYOB Cantina with Themed Mocktails: Enjoy a self-serve bar with immersive mocktail options.
• X Spa: Hot tubs with waterfalls, saunas, clay spas, and cold plunges.
• Gaming Room: Featuring a custom game table, board games, and a PS5.
• Kaan Lounge: Ideal for sound bowl experiences, yoga, and more.

Each of these activities is designed to help guests reconnect with themselves and the land, offering an immersive and relaxing off-grid sanctuary experience. 

The Zen Dome Experience

My favorite feature of our stay was the Zen Dome. The hexagon clear dome allowed us to slept under heated blankets while enjoying a breathtaking view of the starry sky. The dome’s design combines comfort and immersion in nature, offering a truly unique off-grid sanctuary experience. Would I stay in the Zen Dome again. Yes! In a heartbeat!

A Touch of Star Wars

For Star Wars fans, Outpost X is an immersive haven. The property features elements like Sand Cruisers and space-inspired gear, creating an ambiance that feels straight out of a galaxy far, far away. This thematic touch adds to the off-grid retreat vibe, combining nostalgia with nature.

We had the best time on the cruisers despite the wind. You can check out lots of on property structures. If you are an artist, there is a call for installations! You can check that out on their website. 

Amenities and Social Spaces

The spa was closed during the off-season, although there was one hot tub open. I was just too cold to dare get in it.  We explored the other social areas, including the Cantina, Game Room, and Kaan Lounge. These communal spaces gave us the chance to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of the secluded sanctuary.

Check out all of these spaces in my youtube video (link).

Final Thoughts

Our visit to Outpost X was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or someone seeking a secluded sanctuary to unwind, this retreat has something unique to offer. For a more detailed account of our trip and helpful tips, be sure to check out my full video on YouTube.

Also check out options they have like the culinary experience or renting cosplay clothing!

Oh, and if you don’t like the extreme cold or heat, I would check out the spring and fall months. I think those would be the best times to go experience this off-grid sanctuary experience.For more information on Outpost X, visit their official website at outpost-x.com

A Year of Possibilities

This year, I started something exciting: my very own Book of Possibilities. Inspired by my friend Natali and the movie The Last Holiday, this creative project has quickly become one of my favorite ways to dream big and stay inspired.

In the movie, Queen Latifah’s character creates a “Book of Possibilities” to imagine a life filled with adventure and fulfillment. By the end of the movie, her book evolves into a “Book of Realities.” That idea stuck with me, and I knew I wanted to create my own version.

The concept of a Book of Possibilities isn’t just about dreaming; it’s about visualizing a life filled with purpose and creativity. This book is my personal space to reflect, plan, and capture ideas that might one day turn into reality.

Watch the full youtube video here: https://youtu.be/IzwZ2RPvjfU

How I Got Started

To begin, I decided my Book of Possibilities would hold not only my dreams but also my New Year’s goals. Combining these two elements felt natural since they both represent things I hope to accomplish.

For the materials, I kept it simple. I grabbed stickers, folders, clear pages, markers, colored paper, and my trusty selfie printer. The simplicity allowed me to focus on the creative process rather than overcomplicating the setup.

My selfie printer became a key tool in making my book feel personal. I printed vibrant 4x6 photos of dream destinations, inspiring quotes, and even some snapshots from my daily life. The photos added personality and made each page come alive. If you’d like to use similar materials, check out the links on my planner page at www.designsuitecourses.com/dailyplanner.

Finding Joy in the Creative Process

What I loved most about starting my Book of Possibilities was the freedom it gave me to play. Unlike many of my other creative projects, this one didn’t require structure or perfection. I let my imagination run wild.

One of my favorite moments was creating the cover. I went all in with a maximalist style, combining stickers, markers, and letters. It was refreshing to take a step back from the computer and work with my hands. The tactile experience of crafting reminded me of why I fell in love with creativity in the first place.

My kids even got involved. They watched me cutting and gluing in the kitchen and decided to join in. They made their own books, complete with stickers, drawings, and photos. It turned into a family project, with laughter and a wonderfully messy workspace.

Why the Book of Possibilities Works

The beauty of a Book of Possibilities lies in its flexibility. It’s a space for dreams, plans, and reflections. Think of it as a vision board you can continuously build on. Unlike traditional vision boards, it’s portable, expandable, and can grow with you throughout the year.

I chose an 8.5x11 size for my book because I wanted enough space to print pages directly from my computer. My friend Natali opted for a smaller A5 planner size, which is great for those who want something more compact. No matter the size, the purpose is the same: to create a space where possibilities come to life.

Pages to Inspire Your Creativity

If you’re thinking about starting your own Book of Possibilities, here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

1. Organize by Themes
   • Creative Exploration: sketches, mood boards, and brainstorming.
   • Planning and Goals: to-do lists, timelines, and step-by-step plans.
   • Personal Growth: reflections, affirmations, and vision statements.
   • Future Focus: travel dreams, career aspirations, and big “what-ifs.”
2. Incorporate Visuals
   Use photos, magazine clippings, or drawings to bring your pages to life. Visual elements make the book more engaging and exciting to revisit.
3. Add Affirmations and Quotes
   Dedicate pages to uplifting messages that keep you motivated.
4. Get Crafty
   Experiment with stickers, washi tape, markers, and anything else that inspires you.
5. Make It Fun
   This book is yours. Let go of perfection and focus on capturing your dreams and ideas in a way that feels authentic to you.

Turning Dreams into Reality

The most exciting part of a Book of Possibilities is seeing how dreams can slowly evolve into reality. This year, I’ve already started planning trips I added to my book, including some dream destinations I’ve been wanting to visit.

As I continue to add to my book, I’m noticing patterns in what inspires me. Whether it’s a new creative project or a personal goal, this book helps me stay focused on what truly matters.

A Project You Can Start Anytime

Although I began my Book of Possibilities at the start of the year, it’s a project you can start anytime. The beauty of this concept is its timelessness. Whenever inspiration strikes, you can dive in and start creating.

I plan to share updates on how my book evolves throughout the year, so stay tuned! If you decide to create your own, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s make this year a celebration of creativity, possibility, and joy.

Watch the full video for inspiration on creating your own Book of Possibilities here: (youtube link)

Mark Your Calendars for 2025 Summits!

The Sweet Life Designer Summit is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited.This year, we’re thrilled to announce not one but two incredible summits. These events are designed to spark creativity, foster connections, and provide invaluable insights into the world of design and making.

April 16-18, 2025
The Sweet Life of A Designer Summit
Join us for free at www.designsuitecourses.com/sweetlifesummit.

September 9-11, 2025
The Design Suite Maker Conference
(Link coming soon!)

Both summits promise a blend of inspiration, education, and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting, there’s something for everyone.

Watch the entire behind the scenes of our photoshoot here: (youtube link coming soon)

Behind the Scenes: Our Photoshoot

To get ready for the upcoming summits, we scheduled a photoshoot to capture the excitement and energy of what’s to come. Let me tell you, things didn’t go exactly as planned.

I specifically booked a studio with a pink wall. But when I arrived, there was no pink wall in sight! Was it frustrating? Yes. Did we let it stop us? Absolutely not.

We improvised with the other colors available and made it work. Adaptability is key, right? I brought several outfit options to keep the vibe fresh and fun. We also added a sweet touch—literally—with an assortment of treats to use as props. From colorful candies to pastel pastries, they brought an extra layer of playfulness to the shoot.

Despite the hiccups, the photoshoot turned out beautifully. It’s a reminder that sometimes, when things don’t go as planned, they can still turn out better than expected.

Why These Summits Matter

The Sweet Life of A Designer Summit in April is all about celebrating creativity. It’s a free event aimed at bringing designers together to share ideas, learn, and grow. Whether you’re curious about starting your design journey or you’re a pro looking for fresh inspiration, this summit is for you.

Then, in September, we’re hosting The Design Suite Maker Conference. This event will dive deeper into the business side of design and making. Expect hands-on workshops, expert panels, and plenty of opportunities to network with like-minded creatives.

A Year Full of Creativity and Fun

2025 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year. Between these summits and everything else we have planned, I can’t wait to share this journey with you.

We’re committed to making this year one to remember, and we hope you’ll join us. Stay tuned for updates on the September event and additional surprises along the way.

Let’s make 2025 a year full of growth, creativity, and connection. See you at the summits!

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Why Make Art That Sells is a Must-Read for Artists

If you're looking to grow your art career, Make Art That Sells is the book that can transform your journey. The moment I picked it up, I knew this compact book held the key to unlocking the potential of my creative work. Written by Carina Gardner, Make Art That Sells not only provides practical advice but also challenges the outdated "starving artist" myth. As someone who once believed in that myth, I can say this book was truly a game-changer.

Right from the start, Make Art That Sells offers clear, actionable steps to build a thriving art business. It’s designed for artists at every stage, whether you’re just starting or looking to expand. I personally began reading this book when I was still figuring out how to turn my artistic passion into something more than a hobby. The book walked me through each stage of the journey, from identifying my unique style to targeting the right audience.

One of the standout features of Make Art That Sells is the formula that Carina introduces. This formula enabled me to see my art through the lens of a business, rather than just as creative expression. In doing so, it helped me evaluate my work critically and identify new market opportunities. More importantly, the book taught me how to ask myself essential questions: What medium best suits my work? What themes resonate with my audience? These questions became the foundation for defining my own artistic voice.

Additionally, Carina's step-by-step guidance makes the process of selling art feel attainable. She breaks down the complexities of the art market into bite-sized, actionable strategies. Whether you’re focused on painting, digital art, or another medium, you’ll learn how to position your work for success. One of my favorite aspects of the book is how Carina simplifies what can often feel like an overwhelming process, helping you see the bigger picture of your art business.

For me, the Make Art That Sells formula was a major turning point. It completely shifted how I approach my art career. Before, I saw my creative work as something separate from business—now I view it as an integral part of a sustainable career. I no longer feel like I have to sacrifice financial stability to do what I love. Instead, the book has helped me build a bridge between passion and profit.

Looking back, I realize how much Make Art That Sells has influenced my path as a designer. It’s not just a book—it’s a roadmap that helped me gain clarity about my goals, my audience, and how to grow a successful business. It also reignited my joy for creating, knowing that my art can both inspire and sustain me.

If you're ready to take your art to the next level, Make Art That Sells is the perfect companion. It equips you with the tools and mindset needed to turn your creative dreams into a thriving, meaningful business. And that, in my experience, has been priceless.

You can get this book here: https://www.amazon.com/Make-That-Sells-Carina-Gardner/dp/B0CTHPSRK3

The holiday season is upon us, and I’ve gathered some of my favorite Christmas craft ideas just for you! These projects are perfect for adding a festive touch to your home, and they’re easy to create with your Silhouette or Cricut machine. Plus, I share freebies each week in my VIP group, so don’t miss out—sign up for FREE at www.designsuitecourses.com/free. Ready to dive into some Christmas craft ideas? Let’s get started!

Explore our overview of 8 festive Christmas craft ideas to try this holiday season, and watch the individual tutorials below!

Christmas Village Tutorial

First up, make your holiday decor magical with my Christmas Village Tutorial! Using cardstock and your Silhouette machine, you’ll build a charming village that includes a gingerbread house, elf house, chapel, and more. Place tea lights inside to make each piece glow. This project will bring a nostalgic, festive vibe to any mantel or tabletop!

Episode 17 Christmas Village
Watch the full video: Episode 17 Christmas Village
Files available in my shops | https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/catalog/product/view/id/79401

Feathered Christmas Tree

For a unique addition to your decor, try my Feathered Christmas Tree tutorial! With paper cut from your Silhouette machine, this craft allows you to play with textures and colors that match your holiday style. Its soft look adds a delicate touch to any Christmas display.

Feathered Christmas Tree Tutorial Made with Your Silhouette Machine
Watch the full video: Feathered Christmas Tree Tutorial
Files available in my shops | https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/catalog/product/view/id/233190

Big Christmas House Tutorial

Looking to make a showstopper? The Big Christmas House Tutorial offers just that! This large, eye-catching house makes an ideal centerpiece for your mantel or holiday table. Use sturdy cardstock and your Silhouette machine to craft a beautiful holiday scene that truly stands out.

Big Christmas House Tutorial Made with Your Silhouette Machine
Watch the full video: Big Christmas House Tutorial
Files available in my shops |  https://www.etsy.com/listing/1508077358/3d-christmas-house-christmas-house-svg

25 Days of Christmas Album

Memory keeping during the holidays becomes extra special with the 6 x 9, 25 Days of Christmas Album. This project provides space to capture each day’s memories with custom pages and embellishments. Gather your Silhouette and get ready to celebrate the season day by day.

6 x 9 25 Days of Christmas Album
Watch the full video: 6 x 9 25 Days of Christmas Album
Files available in my shops | https://www.etsy.com/listing/1382533264/25-days-of-christmas-album-tree

Ultimate Paper Gingerbread House

For those who love the look of gingerbread houses, I have the Ultimate Paper Gingerbread House tutorial. Made with sturdy cardstock and a die-cutting machine, this reusable piece can last for years. Add some personal touches, and you’ll have a festive centerpiece for your holiday home!

How to Put Together an Ultimate Paper Gingerbread House with Your Die Cutting Machine
Watch the full video: Ultimate Paper Gingerbread House
Files available in my shops | https://carinagardnershop.myshopify.com/products/the-ultimate-paper-gingerbread-house?_pos=1&_sid=6b1ec7f98&_ss=r

Swirly Snowy Ornament

For quick and elegant decor, check out my Swirly Snowy Ornament tutorial! You’ll use your Silhouette to cut delicate snowflakes that swirl together, creating a beautiful frosty ornament. Customize with glitter, vinyl, or faux snow for that perfect holiday sparkle.

How to Make a Swirly Snowy Ornament with Your Silhouette Machine
Watch the full video: Swirly Snowy Ornament Tutorial
Files available in my shops | https://www.etsy.com/listing/1519912868/3d-christmas-ornament-ornament-svg-cut

Christmas Advent Calendar House

Make the holiday countdown exciting with the Christmas Advent Calendar House! This project features 25 doors, each representing a day leading up to Christmas. Create this fun piece with your Silhouette, and let the countdown to Christmas begin!

How to Make a Christmas Advent Calendar House with Your Silhouette Machine
Watch the full video: Christmas Advent Calendar House Tutorial
Files available in my shops | https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/double-house-advent-calendar.html

12 Days of Christmas Ornaments

Finally, bring the beloved holiday carol to life with the 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments! Each ornament represents one of the classic carol’s verses, and you can craft them from cardstock, vinyl, or wood. These beautiful designs make great gifts or festive decor for your tree.

How to Make the 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments on Your Silhouette Machine
Watch the full video: 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments
Files available in my shops | https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/marketplace/seller/profile/shop/carina-gardner

Get even more craft patterns, free designs, and holiday inspiration at www.designsuitecourses.com/free.

Interested in becoming a designer? Join a Design Bootcamp at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp.

Stay up to date on Carina's latest events at www.designsuitecourses.com/designevents.

Carina Gardner Design Courses recently filled a month with creativity, community, and hands-on growth. From engaging workshops to inspiring bootcamps, every event offers ways to build your design skills. This season, Carina Gardner Inc. curated these events to bring you closer to crafting holiday projects within a supportive, interactive community.

Jump into the Christmas Maker Extravaganza
The Christmas Maker Extravaganza aired live on October 24, but fortunately, it’s not too late to enjoy the festivities! This course not only brings you holiday projects through 10 video lessons but also includes six creative projects and 12 downloadable files. Additionally, with lifetime access, you can explore these unique holiday crafts whenever you’re ready. Have you ever wanted to create coordinating Christmas decor and gift wrap? If so, this festive course offers that and much more, making it the perfect resource for all your holiday crafting needs.

Explore Your Creativity in the Design Bootcamp
Carina Gardner’s Design Bootcamp takes you further into essential design techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned designer, the course is perfect for offering both a strong foundation in the principles and business of design. Additionally, with Carina’s expert guidance, you’ll not only learn practical skills but also build the confidence to develop a style all your own. Furthermore, the connections made throughout the course last well beyond its duration, ultimately creating a network that will continue to inspire and support you in the future. Visit Carina Gardner’s Design Bootcamp to join today!

Highlights from the Design Suite Maker Conference
This past August, the Design Suite Maker Conference brought designers together to discuss the highs and lows of running a creative business. Now, you can access these conference highlights through YouTube and the Make and Design podcast. The panel “Best & Worst Part of Owning a Design Business” provides honest insights from Carina and Design Suite members. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb813od4qOs&t=109s

Thrive in the Design Suite Community
The Design Suite connects you with the support and resources you need to succeed. With expert coaching and active peer groups like Marco Polo, members can exchange ideas and offer real-time support. Through monthly in-person meetings, quarterly virtual conferences, and more, this community creates ongoing learning opportunities. Here’s what members are saying:

• “Design Suite has been heaven-sent with more knowledge and encouragement than I could have ever asked for.” – Jalin Bingham
• “The quality of guidance I was given on my first coaching submission was excellent.” – Callé Friesen

For a place to grow, connect, and design, Carina Gardner Design Courses and the Design Suite community offer unmatched support. Learn more here!

Direct-to-film (DTF) printing trend has emerged as a game-changer in the world of garment customization. 2025 promises even more advancements. Heat Press Nation highlights DTF’s rising popularity and its growing impact on custom garment printing. 

You can listen to the full episode on the Make and Design Podcast with Carina Gardner. Her interview with Jared Barbosa from Heat Press Nation revealed what to expect in 2025.

Listen to Episode 488 What is Hot in 2024 and 2025 and Black Friday Deals with Heat Press Nation here: (link coming soon) www.makeandesign.com

You can also watch the episode by going to youtube at (link coming soon) www.youtube.com/carinagardner

DTF Printing’s Unique Appeal

DTF printing has set itself apart from other methods with impressive durability and quality. Unlike traditional techniques, DTF creates vibrant prints that resist fading and cracking. Heat Press Nation describes DTF as “the biggest shift in garment customization,” especially because it produces sharp colors on dark fabrics, where sublimation falls short.

By applying a white base layer under each design, DTF ensures colors pop on darker materials, offering a crisp look that print shops love. This feature opens up creative possibilities and produces results that make custom garments stand out.

Broader Customization Capabilities

DTF printing goes beyond shirts, expanding customization to items like hats, bags, and even non-fabric surfaces. Heat Press Nation explains that this versatility unlocks new revenue streams for print shops and hobbyists alike. For smaller shops, DTF presents a simple way to diversify products without investing in a dedicated printer. They can order custom DTF transfers and apply them with a heat press—an ideal solution for businesses or startups on a budget.

Affordability and Accessibility

DTF’s affordability also drives its appeal. Today, entry-level DTF printers start at around $2,400, creating an accessible pathway for small businesses eager to enter the custom print market. Heat Press Nation points out that with high reliability and low costs, DTF has attracted new users who value high-quality, full-color prints without the hefty price tag of other methods.

A Promising Future for DTF Printing

As 2025 unfolds, DTF printing will likely grow even more efficient, vibrant, and versatile. Heat Press Nation predicts a continued rise in demand, as more creators discover the benefits of flexible, fast, and high-quality garment customization.

For those interested in DTF, now offers the perfect time to explore this cost-effective, flexible printing solution. With a winning mix of quality, convenience, and adaptability, DTF printing stands poised to lead custom garment printing in 2025.

Looking for the ultimate 2024 Black Friday deals to boost your creativity? Look no further! Carina Gardner, Inc. has an incredible lineup this year. We offer exclusive discounts and special promotions on our most popular products and courses. With deals running from November 12 through Cyber Monday on December 2, this year's event is perfect for creative minds.

All deals are being sent weekly to our VIP group. Join to get these deals: www.designsuitecourses.com/free.

Here’s a quick overview of the exciting 2024 Black Friday deals you won’t want to miss:

Watch the whole video on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/lL-hlgp4dAM

November 12 - Ultimate Creativity Pass

Start the season strong! On November 12, the Ultimate Creativity Pass goes on sale. This pass grants access to a variety of creative resources. It's a fantastic way to kick off our Black Friday promotions, so grab yours early!

November 19 - Christmas Extravaganza

Next, get ready for the Christmas Extravaganza on November 19. This bundle brings festive-themed content, perfect for adding cheer to your holiday projects. It makes an ideal gift for creatives eager to enhance their seasonal designs.

November 26 - Carina’s Creative Speaker Series Bundle

On November 26, don’t miss the 2024 Carina’s Creative Speaker Series Bundle. This exclusive bundle features insights from top industry creatives. It offers a deep dive into succeeding in design and business. Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, this resource is invaluable.

November 29 - Black Friday 2-Day Promo

The big event arrives on November 29 with a two-day promotion:

1. In-Person Event - Our popular In-Person Event is back! Join Carina Gardner and connect with fellow creatives in a dynamic, hands-on experience.
2. Design Your Life Podcast - Dive into this podcast sale. It’s designed to inspire and guide your creative journey.
3. Illustrator Unlocked - Take advantage of our special on the Illustrator Unlocked course. This course offers deep insights into mastering Adobe Illustrator.

Additionally, Design Bootcampers ONLY will receive a special email containing their exclusive Black Friday deal.

December 2 - Cyber Monday Workshop Bundle 2024

Finally, wrap up our 2024 Black Friday deals on Cyber Monday, December 2. This day brings the Cyber Monday Workshop Bundle 2024. This bundle includes workshops tailored to enhance your design skills and creativity.

Reminder if all deals are being sent weekly to our VIP group. Join to get these deals: www.designsuitecourses.com/free.