Business for Designers Course Reinvented (Available in the Design Suite Break Thru)

Posted on by Carina Gardner

The Design Suite courses have been going through an amazing transformation starting with Illustrator for Beginners in January 2024 and now with the release of Business for Designers in February 2024.

So what’s the big change? Every course in Design Suite is being rebuilt and expanded into 15-week, semester-long coursework. These fully expanded courses are being updated as they become available to all lifetime course members for no extra cost. 

Business for Designers might be the most interesting semester-long class Carina has ever taught because it goes into detail about many of the models from Design Bootcamp and her books to show you how to create a profitable design business. 

Don’t know how to research platforms? There’s a video on that.

Don’t know how to write a business plan? There’s a video on that.

Want to know how to problem-solve your struggles? There are several videos on that.

This course bridges the education gap necessary to create a design business. Get the structural pieces needed to truly get your business underway. 

 

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

Models that we go into depth in the class include The Signature Framework, The Design Process Model, The Good Better Best Formula, and the Make Art That Sells Formula. Classwork includes quizzes, essays, and a final exam. You write a business plan and build a newsletter list.

Many of these models are touched on in Carina’s books Design Profit & Prosper and Make Art That Sells 

The best part? Business for Designers is in our foundation Design Suite Break Thru Tier. Learn more by joining a Design Bootcamp today  DESIGN BOOTCAMP

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Dawn K’s Journey of Creativity, Passion, and Profit with Design Suite

Posted on by Carina Gardner

In a world where the pursuit of creativity often takes a backseat to the demands of daily life, Dawn K gives inspiration on a podcast with Carina Gardner by sharing her heartfelt journey of pursuing her dreams. This led to the unexpected events of making money, along with the success and fulfillment that has changed her life. 

Dawn’s story resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt the tug of creative longing amidst the chaos of everyday responsibilities. She had always been one who loved to sew and create, and wanted more from it. She explains the process she went through of deciding to go for it and make the time:

“I was looking at Instagram and saw an ad from [Carina Gardner Inc.] and I said ‘okay, I’ve been saying I want a way to make money from this room… and this could be an option’. I was skeptical, but I said, ‘given the cost, I don’t have much to lose, and let’s go for it.’ And I went through Design Bootcamp, and each day I was tuning in after work, sometimes I’d watch if I had a lunch break, if I had a little bit of time I’d try to watch. And each day I went, ‘oh my goodness, oh this is amazing!’ and there were so many breakthroughs… also just what the possibilities were and what that potential was. And the fact that I felt like I didn’t know how to get there a year ago… to know that there was a way to do it is really what got me hooked and it got me to sign up, and it changed my life.”

 

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

 

The journey that Dawn went on from a hesitant skeptic to a thriving entrepreneur is a testament to the transformative power of the Design Suite program. By doing Design Bootcamp, and then moving on to Design Suite, was huge for Dawn. It allowed her to have time to create all of the projects she had been dreaming of for a long time. She brought a business to life out of it while still having a 40 hour week job as well. Passion was ignited, and she was committed. Design Suite truly is an excellent way to spark the fire of creativity, and bring it into action.

“I’m now making money, and when I started Design Suite, I was looking at all the people who are or who were where I am now… I would start looking up everybody going, ‘oh my goodness oh my goodness oh their work is so good, and look what they’ve accomplished!’ I didn’t think I would be in that same position, but if you put in the work and you put in the time, and you’re consistent about it, you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible,” Dawn eloquently says. 

Not only were her dreams made a reality, but there were benefits of making money, and personal progress that came from it. Dawn states that, “In terms of what attracted me to Design Suite  it was… the mentorship… being able to turn stuff in and get better every single time is huge for me in terms of progress… It was a personal choice that what I really wanted to do was fabric design, and I found that, through Design Suite.”

Overall, the decision that Dawn made to join the Design Suite program, and follow her dreams led to incredible outcomes and happiness she wouldn’t have otherwise found. Not only personal fulfillment and growth, but an open door to making money from her own designs, shortly after joining Design Suite. To end the podcast, Dawn closed with some words to anyone who is considering the design bootcamp or Design Suite by saying, “If you want a creative career, and you’re on the fence, and you’re listening to this podcast, check out Design Bootcamp. If you’re unsure, but you know you really want it and have the grit, just go for it, it is worth it, and it’s life changing.”

Interested in design bootcamp just like Dawn was? Here is the link she followed to sign up! https://www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fcarina-gardner-32e8.mykajabi.com%2Fa%2F2147517829%2FzAfwGmrU 

 

You can find Dawn’s work from her Etsy profile here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/dawnkdesigns/?etsrc=sdt 

If you want to watch the entire video with Dawn K and Carina Gardner, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TACMev4AiIo 

Or listen to the podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2040698/13865727-episode-372-life-changing-creativity-with-dawn-k.mp3?download=true

If you have been following along and have never joined a Design Bootcamp, I’m going to encourage you to sign up! It’s 5 hours of workshops and we have live versions going on often so that you can come and ask questions. Go to www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Learn the Secret to Turning your Passion into Money with Carina’s New Book “Make Art that Sells”

Posted on by Carina Gardner

With her latest book, “Make Art that Sells”, author and designer Carina Gardner delivers a roadmap for artists and 

designers to unleash their money making potential in the vast online marketplace.

“Make Art that Sells” reveals the “secret sauce” for any artist trying to transition from starving to thriving in their art business. Most artists lean heavily on the idea that art should simply be a form of self-expression and many don’t think of their art as a business at all. “Make Art that Sells” challenges that mindset. 

“The Make Art that Sells Formula is meant to allow you to add your personal style and self expression to the creative process…not take away those things.” Chapter 1

“Make Art that Sells” powerfully shows how a single formula can work to boost any art career whether it be digital art such as cutting machine files for Cricut or Silhouette, stickers, clipart, art prints and printables to more traditional art forms.

Ever wanted to be a surface pattern designer? Learn more at www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

Carina unveils a blueprint for artistic entrepreneurship that empowers creators and artists to build a sustainable career. The “Make Art that Sells” formula is a simple, plug and play way for artists and creators to create a clear framework for their businesses. Whether you identify as an artist or a designer this book is for you. 

“There are two key things that you have to do as a creative to make art that sells. First, make art that your custome can use and, second, distribute your art where it can easily be bought.” Chapter 1

Carina analyzes well known artist’s successes and failures throughout history and why the term “starving” is often synonymous with art. She examines the lives and art of well known artists, writers and musicians such as Vincent Van Gogh, Emily Dickinson, and Johann Sebastian Bach as well as Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt and Michelangelo to illustrate why mindset makes a difference.

“Even if you have no intention of becoming Van Gogh or any other famous artist, being a creative today means finding your customer.” Ch. 2

“Usefulness is the simplest piece of the puzzle in explaining why more artists are not making art that sells. It’s not the fault of the art. It usually boils down to a lack of usefulness.” Chapter 6

Some of the things readers are saying about this book:

“I have never seen something more fit to my life and goal than Carina Gardner’s design approach. Leveraging her knowledge of her doctorate in design, her success as a teacher and her experience as a businesswoman is more than design, it is about changing the lives of designers. Teaching how to make my designs make money and to accomplish my dreams. I highly recommend starting that journey with Carina Gardner’s book, Make Art that Sells.” Coleen Rood, draft designer.

“Make Art That Sells” is an insightful book that outlines a practical formula. It has provided me with a clear concise understanding of where my design business is and how to take it to the next level.

Overall, it’s a must-read for anyone looking to turn their passion for art into a profitable venture.” Coffeemomma Creations

This book is for artists looking to elevate their craft and monetize their creations. Carina provides valuable insights and practical strategies to help artists frame their business and start generating income.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting on your artistic journey, this book offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the art market and building a sustainable career.

Inside, you’ll learn:

  • How to identify your niche and find your customer.
  • How to make your product stand out in the online marketplace by developing your own personal style.
  • How to create products for your customer that are both beautiful and useful.
  • How to create your personal brand.
  • Methods for expanding your reach and growing your customer base.
  • Possible selling vehicles available to artists and designers.

With Carina Gardner’s expert guidance, you’ll gain the confidence and skills needed to transform your passion into a profitable venture. 

Available now at Amazon. 

Make Art that Sells

Grab your copy and start making art that sells!

Carina also includes a bonus Masterclass for FREE! Click below to get it. Use the code makeart to receive this for free.

www.makeartbook.com

If you have been following along and have never joined a Design Bootcamp, I’m going to encourage you to sign up! It’s 5 hours of workshops and we have live versions going on often so that you can come and ask questions. Go to www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

#MakeArtThatSells #ArtisticEntrepreneurship #CarinaGardner #ArtBusiness #CreativeSuccess #surfacepatterndesign

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Are you a Creator, Surface Pattern Designer, or Crafter, if so join us for our next Design Bootcamp!

Posted on by Carina Gardner

Do you consider yourself a designer but looking to level up? Or are you a creator and want to make your own designs? In the virtual world we live in, the demand for skilled graphic designers is higher than ever before. Instead of spending money on designs, there are plenty of ways to make/save money on your own designs.

There’s no better way to work, than to love what you do and to make money at it. If any of this sounds like you, and you’re passionate about art, design, creativity and making money, then Design Bootcamp could be an excellent way to move to that next level and a pathway to meet your goals as a designer.

What is a Design Bootcamp?

A Design Bootcamp program is an intensive five-day training designed to equip you with practical skills and mindset needed to set you up for success.  Design Bootcamp specifically, covers a multitude of topics including design principles, industry standard software tools like Adobe Illustrator, how to make money as a designer, mindset and the steps needed to succeed.

 

 


Why choose Design Bootcamp?

Our time together offers a creative learning environment that is intense but fun and offers you the knowledge to ramp up your graphic design career with inspired direction for next steps.

Our Design Bootcamp offers hands-on learning through practical applications that allow you to see how to create designs that are industry standard level so that you can then apply those skills to your design business.

As the instructor for Design Bootcamp, Carina’s experience in the industry comes from many years and areas of design and experience. For example, she has a Master’s Degree in Design; she’s been a College Professor, Creative Director; and is currently a Surface Designer, Paper, Clipart, SVG Designer, and more.  In Design Bootcamp, Carina combines all that knowledge and skill and pours that into this bootcamp. 

 

Is Design Bootcamp right for you?

If you are passionate about design, creativity, making money at it, and looking to thrive in a creative environment, spending some time in Design Bootcamp could be the best launchpad for your design career.

Are you ready to jump in? We would love to have you join us for our next Design Bootcamp. We look forward to getting to         know you and your goals.

 

Click here to join today.

https://www.designsuitecourses.com/designbootcamp

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Have You Registered For Your Free Ticket to the Craft and Design Event?

Posted on by Carina Gardner

Are you ready to dive into a world of creativity? Mark your calendars for the Craft and Design Event happening on Thursday, April 18th, and Friday, April 19th, 2024! This two-day event promises to be an unforgettable experience for creatives, crafters, designers, artists, surface pattern/textile designers, and small business owners alike.

What to Expect:

  1. Inspiring Speakers: Get ready to be inspired by 20 speakers who will share their knowledge, techniques, and insights.

  2. Latest Trends and Techniques: Stay ahead of the curve by learning about the latest trends and techniques in the world of crafting and design. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our event will provide valuable insights to help you stay at the forefront of your craft.

  3. Skill Enhancement: Elevate your skills to the next level with hands-on workshops and demonstrations. Whether you want to master a new software or refine your existing techniques, our event offers something for everyone looking to level up their skills.

  4. New Revenue Streams: Discover new ways to turn your passion into profit. Our event will provide invaluable tips and strategies for earning as a creative.

  5. Holiday Inspiration: Get a head start on your holiday crafting with a plethora of ideas and inspiration.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this exciting virtual event! Mark your calendars, gather your crafting supplies, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as we countdown to the Craft and Design Event 2024! Get your FREE ticket here: https://www.designsuitecourses.com/event

See you there!

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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!

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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!

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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

Posted on by Carina Gardner

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