What made you choose coloring books over other creative outlets?
I really like the idea of the collaboration between the coloring book artist and the colorist.
There is something so special about creating the line work and then handing it off for someone else to execute their vision. Sometimes I see a page from one of my books that someone has colored and I think, “That’s so amazing, I never would have thought to do that!” And suddenly we are collaborators in creating something new and beautiful.
How would you describe your artistic style?
My style is kinda quirky, maybe a bit offbeat. I don’t always use references when I draw so a lot of scenes are just fully from my brain and are a bit odd.
What does your typical process look like when creating a new coloring page or book?
Once I have an idea for a book, I make a list of all the ideas for the pages & pick which ones I want to move forward with. Then I go into Procreate and make a canvas for each page and start sketching. Once the sketches are done, it’s line work, formatting & publishing!
What part of creating brings you the most joy?
Sketching is one of my favorite parts of the whole process. There is so much room to play & a lot of the time I am the only one who sees the sketch so it’s a really personal part of the process for me. Though actually getting to color a page is a lot of fun too!
Is there a coloring page or book you’ve created that holds special meaning for you?
Just a Tad will probably always be a bit special to me, that was my first character book. I had just been recently laid off & I really liked the idea of a sad frog who was just trying to do his best even though he was just a tad sad. I really related to him and seeing other people also relate made me feel much less alone in that moment.
How has your confidence as an artist evolved over time?
I think I used to care a lot about what other people thought of my art & now I just do what makes me happy.
What do you hope people feel when they color your pages?
I hope that people don’t feel scared hah! I hope that people have fun & experiment and enjoy the process knowing that I will be absolutely so excited to see the final result if they care to share it!
What exciting projects are you currently working on?
Okay, so I’ve been ridiculously busy right now — but I’ve been slowly working on my next book.
It’s called Just a Tad Dreamy and it’s going to be a book following Tad inside his dream worlds.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start creating their own coloring books?
My advice is if it’s something you are truly passionate about doing, then go for it!
It takes a lot of time and dedication not only to finish the book but to promote it as well, so just don’t be discouraged if things are slow at the beginning. I’ve been making coloring books for 2 years & there have definitely been some ups and downs for me, but it’s worth it because I enjoy the process.
Coffee, tea, music, or complete silence while creating?
Coffee & a good audiobook or TV show.