Hi, I’m Dawn Nicole!
I create custom, playful lettering and illustrations for clients and brands. I also make workbooks, Procreate Brushes, and online courses for busy creatives who want to learn hand-lettering and calligraphy.
Want to learn how to create colorful, dynamic lettering? I can help you master the art of playful lettering and brush calligraphy while sprinkling in a little creative fun and a lot of inspiration without the overwhelm of learning it alone.
Some of my recent projects include designing the book cover for “Be Kind to Yourself” by Megan Logan for Better Day Books and doing live calligraphy in-store for Kendra Scott in downtown Charleston, SC.
One of my most memorable projects was designing a coloring book-style Valentine’s Day doughnut box for Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.
In the late Summer of 2022, I signed the contract for one of my biggest lettering projects. The Art of Playful Lettering hits bookshelves on January 28, 2024.
Ten RANDOM Facts About Me
No. 1
I’m friendly, so people are always surprised to find out I’m an extreme introvert and completely content to hang out by myself for days on end.
No. 2
I’m bookish. I’ve read 113 books so far this year (2023). I love to alternate between rom-coms and psychological thrillers.
No. 3
I love kindness, coffee, ampersands, reading, staying active (weights + Peloton), cooking, and Thai food.
No. 4
My husband of 16 years is on active duty in the Air Force. Sometimes, he flies a C-17 cargo plane; other times, he “flies a desk.” We have three kiddos (ages 11, 13, and 15) and two dogs (a handsome but weird German Shepherd and a lovably needy Great Dane).
No. 5
Places we’ve lived include Charleston AFB (South Carolina), Altus AFB (Oklahoma), Scott AFB (Illinois), Maxwell AFB (Alabama), Ramstein AB (Germany), and Charleston AFB (again). In 2022, we moved back to Scott AFB (near my hometown of St. Louis). We’re most likely moving again in the Summer of 2024 and anxiously awaiting news of what’s next for us.
No. 6
A major perk of being stationed overseas was the traveling. While living in Germany, we visited Australia, France, Spain, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, the Netherlands, and Ireland.
No. 7
I’m known for being easy to work with and always, always, always on time.
No. 8
I’m fairly tall at 5’9″ (people are always surprised by this when they meet me in person).
No. 9
My go-to outfit is ripped jeans, a black off-the-shoulder tee, and oversized hoop earrings.
No. 10
My favorite bible verse is Proverbs 16:24.
Kind words are like honey-sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.
MISSION STATEMENT: Educate. Uplift. Inspire.
As a lettering artist, I aim to educate and inspire makers to get creative daily while embracing a spirit of community over competition.
I believe that growing your lettering skills is a life-long journey and that you only compete with yourself. We’re here to have fun!
Hi Eva! Thanks so much for the note! I was surprise by how good it is too! 🙂 So glad you enjoyed it! All the best, Dawn
I just found your blog through pinterest and it makes me excited to wander through all your posts:)
When I read your ‘about” page just now, you say you were born on Halloween! That makes it your birthday TODAY! So here’s a happy birthday wish for you!!
Hi Jan! Thank you so much. It was a wonderful birthday! I hope you have a wonderful week! xoxo, Dawn
I Dawn, I am a 4 year breast cancer survivor. I’m 68 years old and just became a grandmother for the first time in April, 2015. I only had one son and he didn’t marry until he was 37 and his wife was 35. I had completely gave up on ever having a grandchild. It took them 4 years to get pregnant, but was definitely worth the wait. I am such a proud grandmother he’s my whole
Life. I’ve always loved doing crafts, just got started with the adult coloring books back in November, so when I found your group I just knew this was the perfect companion to my coloring.
I worked in the health field most of my life until I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 64, so after having a year of recovery my my breast surgery I retired.
Am looking forward to moving forward with your group and your great member.
Thank you so much for sharing your inspirational story!! Also an AF wife (Reserves, now) and mom of three, I’ve enjoyed reading and following your story, and learning about the talent behind some of my favorite Hobby Lobby designs!!
My wonderful husband got me a Silhouette Cameo for Christmas, in the hopes of keeping me busy during his upcoming deployment. That’s how I discovered you.
Thank you for all you’ve done to accomplish your dreams. It’s that reach for your dreams that has inspired so many of our own.
Hi Marissa! Thank you so much for the kinds words! 🙂 You will love the CAMEO! Wishing you all the best! -Dawn
Hello Dawn,
My 22 year old media major daughter just sent me this link and I am so thrilled with your kindness to share your art! Wow you inspire me! She is in the midst of setting up a new website for her momma and I love what you have done with yours. Thanks for inspiring me to play, work and go after my passions! I might have a question for you down the road on your legal sidebar. Very smart! Have a great week of afternoons!
Hi Dawn, Just discovered your website recently and love it! It is inspiring to see you pursuing a creative career! I am in the middle of looking at a career switch which can be scary but exciting! I don’t think it is ever too late to pursue what you love (I’m 47!).
Blessings to you!
Hey there,
I have your website in my favourite tabs when I open my browser! You are so talented!! I am wondering where you got your domain and started your website? I have been considering starting my own for a while now..
Hi Brittany! Thank you so much! Oh I have a really long post with blogging tips and how to get started! 🙂 You can check it out here: http://bydawnnicole.com/blogging-resources. Wishing you all the best, Dawn
I just ordered, Words To Live By: Creative Hand-lettering, Coloring, And Inspirations …. I am BEYOND excited !!!
Hey there! Thrilled to have found you via Pinterest as I pin looking for inspiration for my son’s wedding in May of 2017! I am from Columbia so I was thrilled to see Charleston was home for you for a bit. I’m not creative but copy well…looking to learn brush lettering for scripture gift inspiration and maybe some little coloring sheets for the LITTLES at the rehersal dinner! Any suggestions of where I might could gather/buy I expensively coloring sheets themed for a wedding?! Blessings to you and your sweet family!
Hi Tonya!
Thank you so much! We just got back from visiting Charleston last week. 🙂 I’d look on Etsy for some wedding or love themed coloring pages. Many shops have single page downloads available for just a few dollars now! Wishing you all the best with the wedding!
xo,
Dawn
Wow. Just read your About page, and you are so Awesome! 🙂 so many things done – educations, kids, wife, personal website, creative hobby which later became a profession. You’re so energetic and positive. I just wanted to say it’s stunning to see such people in the world.
Hi Dawn.
I am currently a teacher but I am going back to school for Graphic Design. I am currently enrolled at Sessions College and I saw that you received your certification from there also. How was your experience there and how hard was it to find work doing graphic design? I eventually would like to quit teaching and do graphic design work full-time, but I am super nervous about taking that step!
Hi Sahara! I loved it there! Check out this interview I just did with them for more details: http://www.sessions.edu/campus-news/alumni-news/dawn-nicole-warnaar. Also here are my tips on blogging as a business/freelance work http://bydawnnicole.com/blogging-resources. Wishing you all the best! xo, Dawn
Hi! I found your blog on pinterest and I’m so happy I did because I finally found a blogger I can relate to simply because you are also left-handed! Haha! I just started to pursue my passion for typography since I focused on painting before this and your blog has helped me a lot. Wishing you all the best! 🙂
Hi Dawn I came across your site on Pinterest of course and I just wanted to say thank you for your cool freebies! I really appreciate it and I know that my best girlfriends will be happy to receive some new mugs! 🙂 Thank you and you are an inspiration.
Enjoy Germany!!! We adored our 4 years at Ramstein. My son was born at Landstuhl. Your time there will fly by so quickly!
Sooo glad I ran across your page..I’ve been struggling with major depression after being troubled with 4th stage cancer , rheumatoid arthitis advaed and fibro myalgia advanced and a lung disease. age 45..I’ve got.5 kids used to be very very active always been into art of many forms drawing painting crafts..baking so many activities I can no longer do but after reading every post n these pages tonight i’ve never felt so uplifted and inspired..I now know what I am able to do ..get back into my drawing and so many new products these pens i’ve never seen or heard about as soon as I am able to afford them I want to play! Thank you so much for the smile you put on my face tonight and I look forward o following you and getting involved in classes.
Hi Mary! I’m so very sorry you are going through such a hard time. You are in my thoughts and prayers today. I’m so happy you’ve found art to be a source of joy and inspiration and I wish you all the very, very best!!! Big hugs, Dawn
Dawn, I am sitting here filled with excitement. I can’t believe what has just happened. For more than a year my computer has been telling me it can’t recognize the Studio files I’ve downloaded from various sites. I figured that I had just lost all those files and would never get any benefit from them.
Tonight I had been looking for Halloween printables and your site came up in my search. I saw that you also had information on the Silhouette machine.
Someone asked you the question I’ve been wanting the answer to and there it was!! THE answer. I opened my Silhouette program, did what you suggested, found my folder with all the saved studio files which had been showing up as blank folders and now had the big Silhouette symbol on them. I almost fell off my chair. I clicked on one to try and and hallelujah! It worked.
Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you.
I will definitely save your site to come back and check out more information. I also noticed you had a site with free cut files. I’ll go check that out now.
Hi Donna!
Woohoo! I’m so happy to hear you’ve figured it out. It’s definitely a commonly asked question with a simple fix but it can be so hard to figure it out unless someone tells you. 🙂 I hope you have a great weekend (full of creating!).
All the best,
Dawn
Hi Dawn,
I’m crying as I read all the lovely positive comments and replies here on your blog. I’m not an artist at all. I’m a full time ER nurse with 30 years working in our crazy busy health care system. I do it simply because I want to let my patients know “I’m here with you, you’re going to be okay now…” Recently I started a bullet journal to organize my busy life and to doodle. As I continue to look for creative inspiration, I’ve found my right brain has stimulated my left and I am an even happier and positive nurse leader now!!! I found your site and felt so compelled to reach out to you and say thank you and may God bless you and your lovely family. Xoxo. With love from Southern California ??
Hi Kathy!
First, let me just say nurses ROCK! My father in law and best friends are both nurses and as much as they love it, I hear how demanding it can be both emotionally and physically, so thank you for all you do! Thank you as well for the kind words. I’m so happy you shared how the joy of creativity is spilling over to your nursing life. I couldn’t love that any more! Have a wonderful week!
All the best,
Dawn
I’ve always loved hand lettering and have recently wanted to use those skills more. As I was searching I was drawn to your blog, first because my name is Dawn Nicole and second because it’s totally what I was looking for. I’m excited to get started now!
We’re name twins! Love it! 🙂
Hi Dawn, Just found you through a guest post you did! Love your work! I feel like we have more in common than I thought! I was born and raised in Charleston, SC and I am currently living in Germany as well for the next 3 years 🙂 I am in the process of creating a blog right now so it is a work in progress but I’m so glad I found you so I can keep up with your work.
Reva
Hi Reva, It’s so nice to meet you! Oh how I miss Charleston. It’s where I hope to retire and open a brick and mortar art shop one day! 😉 Wishing you all the best starting your blog. I hope you enjoy Germany as much as we are. Have a great week!
Dawn
HI Dawn, I have one of your books and just started reading it it is sooo good. Thanks for inspiring me to draw and write more. Hope you reply!
Thank you so much Phoebe! ?
Hi Dawn,
My Name is also Dawn Nicole and I was just wondering how many more of me there was in the world and stumbled upon you! I was amazed reading about you. About 6 years ago i stated a crafts business hand making souvenirs for Weddings, baby showers, etc. about 2 years later I started making Tu-Tu’s for little girls. I have since left both to the side(no time to make anything). I just wanted to share with you and my kindred spirit.
That’s so funny! So nice to meet you Dawn Nicole!
I love your emails, your blog, your books, of which I own 2. But every time I go to your website to look back for something I get that annoying sign up box, on my Kindle I cannot see an X to close it. Scrolling down I can get to the search and menu, but then every page change it is back. I signed up months ago. I have no need to sign up again. Please consider letting those of us who are already fans close that box so we can get to the “good stuff” without frustration.
Hi, Anne! I actually don’t have a sign-up box popup on my site. If you can send a screenshot, I can look into it!
Just found you through Bloglovin email and so happy I did as I’ve started to practice hand lettering to add to my own work. Thanks so much for the free practice pages. Now to my 15 minutes of crafting time I’ll add another 15 minutes to practice hand lettering. 🙂 Lol! If it is like the crafting time it will probably be longer. Thanks for sharing with all the wonderful freebies. 🙂
Hi Dawn,
I just found your site through youtube and I had to come here when I heard you live in Germany and bc I liked your style. I’m from Germany but moved to the US 5 years ago. Now my husband and I are thinking about moving our family back to Germany. I have a small etsy business and was debating on continuing my shop from Germany or not. Maybe cater more to Germans? I was wondering if you could tell me about how you do your business from Germany? Are Germans into hand lettered paper goods?
– Sue
Hi Sue! Germany is so much fun. I’m not much help with your question though because my business is run exclusively online, is still U.S. based legally, and has a mostly U.S. readership. From what I’ve seen and heard from local German friends though, crafting is just as big here and the hand lettering trend is definitely catching on! 🙂
Hi Dawn,
You are amazing. Your work, your lettering etc, all beautiful. Thank you for your beautiful freebies. I am doing a basic graphic design course next year and am so so excited especially after reading how its changed your life.
The 50ways to draw worksheets, will you be continueing to do the whole alphabet? I am so excited for them as just what been looking for. xxx
Hi Camille,
Thank you so much! Yes, I plan to do the whole alphabet. They’ll continue to be sent out via the Happy eMail newsletters. 🙂
Your FB post today about Hand Lettering is no just for paper…I fell in love with the Dr Seuss quote on the wood piece! I hope it was Ok to pin it on my gift ideas board! I did say it was by Dawn @ Dawn Nicole Designs! If you would like me to delete this pin, please let me know!
Hi Debbie! You’re welcome to pin anything from my site. Thanks for doing so! 🙂 That post was by Amy of my Creative Team. 🙂
Can you take me off of the comment reply section. I cant seem to get it done.I really don’t need to know all of those comments and responses.
Thank you
Hi Rebekah, Is there not a place that says “manage your subscriptions” or “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the emails you get? I’ve never had someone ask this and (even with a lot of Googling) can’t seem to figure out how to do it for you. If I was my email list, that would be easy but not many people subscribe to comments. I can try deleting your original comment if you want! Sorry. I’ll keep trying to figure it out but I think there should be a way for you to do it in the email notifications you get. 🙂
You may be able to click this link to moderate your subscriptions from what I found on WordPress: http://dashboard.wordpress.com/wp-admin/index.php?page=subscriptions&option=comments. Click on “x comment subscriptions” to manage your subscriptions.
Thant would be nice. Why did I subscribe to opinions? LOL I am in the midst of writing a book so I am narrowing my emails for this season. Blessings to all you do!
Can you tell me what beginner supplies I need to get my daughter started on hand lettering and watercolor calligraphy?
If you can give me list of recommended beginner supplies that would be great.
Thanks so much for you help.
Love your blog!
Hi Stacy!
Here are some links to my favorite supplies:
-Hand Lettered Markers: http://bydawnnicole.com/2015/09/the-best-markers-for-hand-lettering.html
-Brush Lettering Supplies: http://bydawnnicole.com/2016/03/brush-lettering-supplies.html
-Modern Calligraphy Supplies: http://bydawnnicole.com/2015/12/modern-calligraphy-101.html
You can find lettering tutorials and practice worksheets (free!) here: http://bydawnnicole.com/category/blogging-business/art-graphic-design/hand-lettering
Dawn, I just wanted to say thank you so much for all of this…ever bit of your website inspires me! I am looking to make a change and take some risks in my creative life and looking through your posts and all the information you are offering has totally given me a starting place and spurred my dreaming into action. I also want to say how much I appreciate your spirit behind it all. I absolutely want to walk forward in all I do with the same attitudes of giving more than I sell and community over competition. I don’t know you but I like you so much! ha! I just want you to be encouraged that what you are doing matters and God uses it!! Happy Saturday and Merry Christmas! PS my website is my old defunked blog that is about to get a new life, so don’t judge; )! ha!
Hi Michelle! Thank you so much for all the kind words and taking the time to leave such a sweet note. It truly made my morning to read it and I sure do appreciate it. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!
Dawn, I just read a tutorial you did on glass etching. Sorry if this is a silly question but when stenciling, do I have to cut the reverse? I don’t think I’m explaining it correctly but don’t I want to etch the inside of the design?
Hi Kim! I put mine on the outside of the dish and did not need to cut the reverse. 🙂
Hello. You once had a salmon cake recipe that has been my go to recipe for quite some time. I went to make this christmas day and saw that it was deleted. Is it at all possible to send me the recipe. My family loves this recipe and I have sent a pinned version to quite a few people. Thanks so much.
Hi LeShelle!
Here you go… 🙂
Salmon Cakes:
1 lb. wild-caught salmon (I use frozen)
1 large sweet onion, diced
1 pint sweet mini-peppers, diced
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
1 cup Olive Oil Mayo
3 eggs, lightly beaten
4 tbsp unsalted butter
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (+ extra for coating formed cakes)
1 tbsp chili sauce or sriracha
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
2 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp celery seed
Salt and Pepper
Sauce:
1/2 cup olive oil mayo
1/2 cup chili sauce (or sriracha for a kick)
2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a baking sheet sprayed lightly with non-stick cooking spray, place salmon fillets and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 15 minutes. When done, wrap in foil and place in the fridge to cool for at least 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet heat a bit of olive oil and 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté onions, peppers, garlic, cayenne, old bay seasoning, and parsley until veggies are tender, about 15 minutes. Allow to fully cool.
In a large bowl, flake salmon and mix with breadcrumbs, eggs, mayo, celery seed, chili sauce, dry mustard, and Parmesan. Mix well (it’s easiest to use your clean hands!). Add in veggie mixture and mix well again. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
When ready, form mixture into cakes (this should easily make 10-12 cakes. You can freeze some or cook them all). Put some of the extra Parmesan on a plate and press each cake into the Parmesan to coat both sides. This will help your cakes stick together better as you cook them (plus a yummy, crispy cheese coating can’t hurt, right?).
Heat olive oil and butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry cakes in batches 2-4 minutes per side or until well-browned and heated through. Drain on a paper towel-lined pan, and keep warm in the oven if desired.
For serving sauce, mix mayo, chili sauce, and pickle relish well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Thanks a million. I will be making these tonight.
hi dawn ,i am kamal here i live in india
would like o learn from you calligraphy
do you conduct workshops
I am obsessed with your blog. I found you through Pinterest and I fell in love with your work ever since ?
Thank you so much!
I LOVE your blog, when I was doing my 1st Whole30 I lived by your sweet potato hash recipe and now would like to pass it on to a friend starting her first Whole30. Can you post or send it to me?
Hi Wendy, I accidentally deleted that and just kind of cook it from memory. This recipe is super similar: https://www.relayfoods.com/meals/dishes/Paleo-Sausage-and-Sweet-Potato-Hash/f345f068-7e7a-43f6-ae76-a512620d39fc. The main thing I do different is add some chicken stock when cooking the sweet potatoes. 🙂
Hi Dawn! Love your site. I just discovered you are in Germany-so am I! The snow today was so pretty!! I am hoping your tutorials will help me get through the dark and cold rest of winter. I haven’t had much luck finding supplies here-pens and quality paper specifically. Am heading to the states this month for a visit and hoping to bring supplies back with me.
Thanks for all the ideas. Maybe we will meet one day!!
Tschüss
Hi Stacey!
It is definitely cold here. But I agree, it’s a good reason to stay inside and letter! 🙂 I still order most of my supplies on US Amazon, although I do get some from Amazon.de from time to time as well (when they have it). Enjoy your visit to the States. Have a great weekend. Tschüss!
I love your home studio!!!! It’s just goals… I want one similar to that when I’m older <3 I fell in love with your blog ages ago and I just love your stuff, your blog, your Pinterest and your Youtube channel!!! Tysm for being my blog idol 🙂 xxx
Hi Ash! Thank you so much for the kind words! Have an awesome weekend!!
Hi Dawn! I just found your blog and I’m fascinated. You are so incredibly talented, I love your work. Keep going, you are amazing!
I’ll make my blog public soon, I’m working on it, anyways I’ll let it below.
XOXO
Hi,
I saw one of your iPad Pro videos. I noticed you are left handed (as am I). I used to do calligraphy and want to get back into it on an iPad Pro w/Pencil. In the video, you were using a 9.7 in. iPad. I am deciding between a 9.7 and 12.9 in. and can’t decide. Do you have a preference?
Thanks for any advice you can give!
Hi Bill!
Initially, I was using the 9.7. Once I realized how much time I spent doing lettering and calligraphy on it, I decided to upgrade to the 12.9. Those extra inches are so nice. My husband got the 9.7 since he was still using a first gen iPad. If I were doing it all over again, I’d go with the 12.9 from the get go. 🙂
All the best,
Dawn
Hi,
I can’t find your 30 nights of whole30 dinners guide. Did it move somewhere?
Thanks!
Hi Allison! I no longer have any food related content on my site, sorry! I stopped blogging about food a little over a year ago.
Thank you for the free bookmark template – I run a small reading group at a primary school in the UK.
Some of the children are not great readers but they love to colour in bookmarks, so I figure every little helps
in getting them interested!
First, your children are beautiful. I am not always compelled to write comments.. but I just read your updated ABOUT.. thank you for sharing. I have been following you on IG, FB and your blogs for a several weeks now. I am new to lettering (not a leftie, but that’s ok) You are so inspiring and caring about your art and passion. I love reading and trying your examples and practice sheets!! Thank you so much for your interest in helping other be their best. I am retired/60 yrs/have 4 adult kids/3 grandies and thanks to my Dad, I believe you should always learn something new.. all the time!!! You are helping/inspiring me to do this. I have loved ‘pretty word/quotes’ forever. Now I am writing them!!!
THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!!
Oh how cool, I just read your bio for the first time. My oldest daughter was born on Halloween 1981 ! I began following your fb page for my youngest daughter, she’s almost 12 now.! She loves your art and lettering. We are using your daily prompts now.
Blessings!
Johnna
Hi Dawn,
I hope that you get a chance to read this. I want to THANK YOU and let you know that you are a huge inspiration! I cannot thank you enough for posting all of your tips – and I mean about everything! I have already started applying some of your time management techniques in my crazy busy household and embracing the true introvert that I am – all while working on growing my hand lettering business (honestly, the list of our commonalities is a little bizarre – just sayin’). 😉 Please keep doing what you do! You are absolutely making a difference. Thank you for being you and embracing a community of support and giving. I look forward to your future posts!
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this sweet note, Lisa! It truly made my day today. 🙂 Have a great week!
Hi Dawn, I am excited to learn how to do some lettering for making posters etc. at my school and I LOVE your website. I think you’re going to be a great teacher! I work part-time as an artist (mainly digital clip art)and I was also curious about how you broke into the field of licensing. That is one of my goals with the digital clip art I’ve been creating, but I’ve been a little too intimidated to begin figuring out the process. Do you have any advice for someone just starting out? Thanks so much if you can pass on any tips. Corinne
Hi Corinne! I fell into the field of licensing by accident really. I just put my work out there and eventually, I started to get emails and inquiries. A good place to start might be Creative Market and/or Erst! I am planning to start adding more artwork there that other artists can license and use in their creations. Art, Inc by Lisa Congdon is a great book to pick up and read for more info too! 🙂 All the best!
Thanks a bunch for the info, Dawn! I’ll check out those sites!
Hi Dawn, I was a 20 year Air Force Wife and loved every minute of it. We really miss the military life since my husband retired. I have also retired from banking and now starting to fill that bucket list. One has always been to learn calligraphy. I have gone and bought some brush pens and trying to jump right in on it. My normal handwriting has always been horrible, so I know learning this will take some patience and hard work. So glad I found you here on line. Look forward to learning the lettering.
Hi! I saw you on Pinterest and love your page!!
I am wondering about the laundry bin that comes out diagonally, where you got that? I saw it on Pinterest and love it so much, but I’m not sure where to get one.
Thanks for everything!
Hi Zoie! Thanks so much! We actually made it. 🙂 It’s now our dog food bin!
Oh, okay! Thanks! I was thinking of making one and using it for laundry! I’ll try! Thanks!!
I would like to do your free class but when I try to access it says to sign up thru Facebook. I do not have a Facebook account. Is that the only way I can access this class?
Hi Charlene, it’s run via Facebook only, sorry!
I love your printables. I have Choose Joy over my desk. Thanks for making the world a more beautiful place.
Hey – i just stumbled across your blog via Pinterest. I also just requested a Facebook approval. I can’t wait to dive in and learn more! I’m not that “creative” but I love to practice what is being taught. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Hi Dawn,
I’m also living in Germany (both my father and my fiancé are stationed at Baumholder) and I feel like lettering is the only thing keeping me sane out here! So glad to have stumbled across your blog. It just warms my heart to think that there’s another letter-happy military spouse not too far away!
Hi Maia!
It’s so nice to meet you. I’m so sorry for the delay in getting back to you. We were flying back from the US on New Year’s Eve and the jet lag turned me into a zombie this week, ha!
We actually just found out we are moving back to the US this Summer. A full year earlier than we expected but it’s back to my favorite city: Charleston, SC! So we’re pretty excited but we will miss Germany and Europe so much too!
I hope you’re enjoying a lovely weekend!
Dawn
Hey-So my family and I are going to have a bookbox (little free library) and I thought it would be a neat idea to put a book mark in each one. I found your coloring bookmarks in my coloring box and was wondering if it be alright if I copied a few pages, cut the bookmarks out and put on of them in each book? Would that be considered personal or commercial use?
Hi Hevyn! I’d ask that you include my copyright info on each bookmark with a simple “Bookmark Design by DawnNicoleDesigns.com” on the back. 🙂
Ok cool! I promise I’ll add the copyright “Bookmark Design by DawnNicoleDesigns.com” info on the back of each one! Thanks for letting me do that! This will be so much fun! Your amazing! 🙂
Hi Dawn, I miss your gorgeous monthly desktop wallpapers. I looked forward to them every month on my desktop computer screen. I hope you will consider bringing them back!
Hi Nancy! I’m still doing them. 🙂 Calendars for 2018 have moved exclusively to my Happy Email Club (it’s free). I send them out via email each month. I also add links to the subscriber-only page on the blog.
Are you already signed up for my emails? If so, you can always find them at the top of the Happy Email Club page (a reminder of the sign in info is at the bottom of every weekly happy email).
If you’re not already signed up, you can join via the link in my profile or go here: https://dawnnicole.us/HappyEmailList
March Calendars hit inboxes on Monday! ?
Thank you Dawn, I appreciate it!!! I just signed up. 🙂
Hi, Dawn,
I’m trying to work on your brush calligraphy worksheets (which are a GREAT resource, by the way) and I’m using a Tombow ABT Dual Tip pen. I’m getting a bit frustrated (OK, very frustrated) because I cannot get a distinct thin and thick line, even if I drastically move the pen angle. Please let me know either what I am doing improperly or should I use a different pen. And, if a different pen, please give me a suggestion.
Thank you!!!
Hi Shelley!
I can definitely help with this issue. It’s not you, it’s the pen!
The Tombow ABT is simply just not the best pen to start out with. Due to its large tip size, it’s harder to control. This is a video I made very recently about this very topic: https://www.facebook.com/bydawnnicole/videos/1690202984388563/.
Get full details and links to everything mentioned in the video here: https://bydawnnicole.com/best-brush-calligraphy-pens/.
You’ll find the Tombow Fude MUCH easier to learn with! 🙂
Dawn
Thank you! I saw your message yesterday and will go get this this weekend.
Hey Dawn!
Thank you for all of this 🙂
I bought your book (words to live by) and it’s AMAZING!!! Everyone in my class is borrowing it from me and i’m a big fan!!!
Your work has improved my writing and drawing skills! Thank you so much ?❤?❤
Thank you so much for this sweet note, May! It made my day. 🙂 I’m so happy to hear it!
❤?❤?❤?❤?❤
Hellooo. Im so happy to be a part of this group. Your work is soooo beautiful. I am very new to lettering and recently took a class. Im hoping to learn so much more from you. Your frebies are also great as they are what I have been using for practice.
Ohhh I also live in Panama (Central America) with my hubby and our 3 precious girls. Maybe someday your adventures will bring you down here. 🙂
Hi Shanina! Thank you so much for the kind words. It’s so nice to meet you. I would loooove to visit Panama someday! Happy lettering! ?
Hi Dawn! Thanks for all your advice – I especially appreciate your reviews of pens and papers. I think paper can definitely make or break a project. I have been practicing with the Tombow pens – both the Fudensoke (sp?) and the Dual Tips (which I love for both watercolor and lettering)! I was wondering if you have blank lined paper for use in practicing your workbooks and practice sheets? I have made my own but thought it would be convenient to be able to download… Anyway thanks for your work and your inspiration!
Hi Joby! All of the “30 Days” workbooks offered in my shop include blank practice pages at the end of the PDF. 🙂 https://shop.bydawnnicole.com/collections/lettering-resources
Thank you so much! I looked back at the workbook I bought and see that there are blank guides in the back! I had not looked all the way through the book – I was just working my way through the alphabets. You think of everything!!! I appreciate your help!!
Good Morning Dawn, I was so excited to open your blog about lettering writing. When I read about you and all of your fantastic hobbies I couldn’t believe I was reading about a woman that I met years ago and follow you through your grandparents MK and M who live in Ohio. I have been friends with your grandparents for several years and they are beautiful people. I am 78 years old and have always loved to do different crafts. I have always wanted to try this form of art and now (guess what?) through your blog on Pinterest I am so excited. You are so talented and it is wonderful how you share your talents with everyone. I can’t wait to tell MK how I found you on Pinterest. I am so ready to get started.
Well hi, Judy! Long-time, no talk! I hope you’re doing well. Keep me posted on how you are doing with the calligraphy. It’s SO much fun!! Let me know if you have any questions and I’ll be happy to help. Big hugs and so good to hear from you!
Hi Robyn! They’ve been gone for years but I have some of my favorites in word docs still. Which one were you hoping to print? If I still have it I’ll be more than happy to send it to you. 🙂
Hi Dawn,
I really like your printable bookmarks that let kids fill in with their own colours. I notice the terms of use is personal. Is it possible to print copies off for the school libraries I work with? All the best!
Laura
Hi Laura! I’m happy to grant school library use so long as my copyright info is left on the print outs. 🙂
Hi! I stumbled across your page through a pinterest post, while looking for bullet journal inspiration, and am so happy I did!
I’ve always been the creative type, and loved the look of lettering and calligraphy, but was always afraid of not getting it to look perfect (thus, the reason I haven’t even opened the awesome calligraphy pen and ink kit I received for my bday (9 MONTHS ago!!) Haha!
Reading through your blog though, has given me the motivation to finally attempt it; progress, not perfection, right? 😊 I’ve even saved some of the lettering practice sheets, and they are printing as I write this.
Thank you again, and I will most definitely share your site!
Wendy (Omaha)
Hi Wendy!
That’s so awesome and I’m so excited for you. It’s such a wonderful hobby and fun way to spend time. I hope you’re enjoying the practice sheets and the journey.
Happy practicing!
Dawn
Hello! I am new to the hand lettering game and I was wondering if you could share what your life looks like as a full time lettering artist? What does this entail and how does it work? As a Law Enforcement Wife and mom of 1, I am always looking for creative ways to make a little extra money and I just LOVE lettering! Any advice you could pass my way would be great!
P.S.: your tutorials and practice sheets are my fave!! Thank you!
Hi Sam!
I actually wrote a blog post on this very topic but I’ll link a few more you may find helpful as well.
My typical day: https://bydawnnicole.com/my-typical-daily-blogging-routine/
Side Hustle Ideas for Lettering Artists: https://bydawnnicole.com/10-side-hustle-ideas-for-hand-lettering-artists/
And this is the full archives for this category (I call it my “Creativeprenuer” posts)
https://bydawnnicole.com/category/creativepreneur/
Thanks so much for the kind words. 🙂 Wishing you all the best!
Dawn
Thank you! I don’t know how I haven’t seen these yet!!
Amazing, thank you! This is my go-to recipe recommendation when anyone asks. It’s so easy and impresses easily.
For anyone out there, I just wanted to add that I’ve also tried this recipe different times with a whole chicken, a pork butt roast, and ribs, and it is really forgiving with portions – they all work! I also add some smoked paprika for a little extra BBQ taste. And the dates need to be medjool for the proper flavor.
Hi! I am trying to teach myself calligraphy and inspired by your website and all of your amazing resources! This might be a silly question but is the Procreate app you reference just called “procreate”? Is it a free app? I want to make sure I get the right one!
Hi Erin! It’s $9.99 and worth every penny! I’ve been using it for years now and it’s the ONLY app I use for lettering and calligraphy on my iPad. 🙂 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/procreate/id425073498
Hi Dawn, I also live in South Carolina. I live in Summerville. I’m excited about joining email club to get some practice sheets. Thank you Brenda
Hi Brenda! So nice to “meet” you and have you here! 🙂 I hope you enjoy the practice sheets!
Hi Dawn
I work at a Public Library in New Zealand and I have seen your wonderful Free colouring bookmarks. I wondered If I would be able to download some to use for Take and Make kits for children to take home and colour in. I have seen your previous comments from Libraries about making sure your copywrite info is left on the printouts. Can I please use print out about 80 bookmarks maximum. We are in lockdown at this time and I thought it would be a wonderful idea for the children to be able to do these if we come down in our levels.
Thanks
Carla Te Moananui
Hi Carla! I am happy to grant teacher and library use so long as my copyright info is left on the printouts as you mentioned. 🙂 Stay safe and enjoy!
Thank you,
I’m making Take and Make kits for our customers. We make a kit for them to take home. We put a bookmark, plus a piece of ribbon and some Duracell to cover it so they last longer. Our customers love our Take and Make kits.
Carla