10 minute art practices

Life is full. Between work, family, and all the everyday tasks, making time for your art can feel impossible. But here’s the truth: you don’t need hours to feel creative. In fact, just 10 minutes a day can reconnect you to your practice and bring joy to your routine.

These quick, low-pressure ideas are perfect for everyone who wants to stay creatively engaged — even on busy days.

1. Start a Doodle Journal

Grab a small sketchbook and a pen. Use your 10 minutes to make repetitive marks, contour drawings, or even scribbles that reflect your mood. Doodling isn’t just relaxing — it builds your creative muscle and gives you material for future work.

2. Create a Traveling Art Kit

A zippered pouch filled with just a few basics — scissors, a glue stick, water brush, small watercolors, and some scrap collage bits — means you can create anywhere. Whether you're on your lunch break or waiting at an appointment, you’ll have everything you need to play.

3. Spend 10 Minutes on an Art Journal Page

Think of art journaling as a layering game. Day 1: add a background wash. Day 2: collage one piece. Day 3: add marks or stencils. You’ll be amazed at what you create with tiny, consistent bursts of time.

4. Prep Backgrounds for Later

Set a timer and loosely brush color onto pages, scrape leftover paint across a canvas board, or glue torn paper in random areas. Prepping backgrounds is satisfying and sets you up for longer sessions later.

5. Create a Color Mixing Swatch

Choose two paints and see how many shades you can make by blending them. Tape your swatches into your sketchbook and label them. It’s a relaxing activity that improves your color knowledge and creates future references.

6. Make a Collage Cluster

Use up scraps by making small compositions or embellishments (think: a few torn pieces, some stamping, maybe a focal word). Store them in an envelope or box and use them later to build full pages.

7. Pull a Prompt Card

Prepare a few creative prompt cards or slips in a jar. When you’re stuck, pull one and respond to it for 10 minutes. Ideas: “draw with your non-dominant hand,” “use only circles,” or “glue down 3 random papers.”

8. Stencil or Stamp on Tissue Paper

This is a great way to use up leftover paint. Stencil or stamp patterns onto tissue or deli paper — later, these become beautifully translucent collage layers.

Take 10 minutes to create right now.

You don’t need to wait for the perfect block of time to make art. All you need is 10 minutes and a willingness to show up.

quick art practice, art for busy women, daily mixed media habits, 10 minute art prompts

Step into your main character energy

It’s been quite a few years since I last participated in an art show—2018, to be exact! So, jumping back in feels both exciting and nerve-wracking. There are so many logistics to figure out—setting up a tent, displaying artwork, accepting payments. Needless to say, the past few weeks have been all about preparing, plus painting a lot to make sure I have pieces ready to sell.

Oh, and did I mention I signed up for two shows over back-to-back weekends? I may have lost my mind a little, but if I’m going to do this, I might as well go big!

A few years ago, I came across a creator who talked about “main character energy.” She pointed out how most people—especially women—often take on supporting roles. We’re daughters, moms, wives, caretakers. We pour so much into others that we rarely allow ourselves to be the main character in our own lives.

That hit home for me. For years, I made my art fit around everything else—mastering the art of the 15-minute creative session while my son was younger, squeezing in moments whenever I could.

But over the past year, I’ve started embracing my main character energy. That doesn’t mean abandoning my family or responsibilities, but it does mean being intentional with my time. I ask myself: Is this something I truly need to do, or can I delegate it? (And yes, sometimes it’s still easier to just do it myself!) But by putting systems in place to keep things running smoothly, I’ve made space for what matters—like applying to these art shows.

So, I want to ask you: Do you have main character energy when it comes to your life? Your art?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Hit reply and let me know if this resonates with you!

Check out my article in Strawberry Moon magazine

I am excited to be featured in the upcoming issue of Strawberry Moon magazine.

Copies are available for pre-order now!
https://www.strawberrymoon.art/shop

#strawberrymoon #strawberrymoonmagazine #strawberrymoonmag #publishedartist #artjournalingpractice #artistinspired #artpreneur

Wishing you a Happy and Arty 2025

One Word to Guide My Year

As the new year begins, I love to choose one word that serves as my anchor and compass. It’s a practice I’ve followed for several years, and it helps me stay focused and intentional as I move through the months ahead. I’d love to share the process I use to find my word and why it’s such a meaningful tradition for me.

Why One Word?

Those of you who have been around for awhile know that I love selecting a word for the year. I started this about 8 years ago, and it made me switch my focus from “resolutions” to “intentions.” Traditional resolutions never resounded with me. Once I started thinking about what my intentions were for the year ahead, everything seemed to line up for me. My intentions help me define my goals, which lead me to my word. This is the process that works for me, but you need to find the path that works for you.

My Process for Finding My Word

Reflect on the Past Year

I start by looking back at the previous year. What were the highlights? What challenges did I face? Are there recurring themes or lessons that stand out? For me, this step is about recognizing growth and identifying areas where I want to continue evolving.

Dream About the Year Ahead

Next, I envision the kind of year I want to create. What feelings, experiences, or achievements do I hope to cultivate? I write down words or phrases that capture my aspirations and desires.

Look for Patterns

I review my reflections and brainstormed words to see if any patterns emerge. I start making a list of any words that resonate with me. Each time I look at the list, I mark the ones that speak to me and cross of any that don’t seem like a fit. As the list narrows, I look up the definition of each word and look for synonyms.

If you are struggling with words, there are long lists available with a quick Google search.

Choose My Word

Finally, I make my choice. My word needs to feel inspiring and expansive—something that can grow with me throughout the year. Once I’ve chosen it, I like to journal about why it’s meaningful and how I hope it will guide me.

Living My Word

Once I’ve chosen my word, I look for ways to incorporate it into my daily life. I might:

• Write it on a sticky note and place it where I’ll see it often.

• Create a piece of art inspired by the word.

• Use it as a mantra during meditation or journaling sessions.

• I also check out etsy. In past years I have ordered bracelets, rings and wood cut-outs for my desk.

For me, the magic of this practice lies in its simplicity. My word becomes a touchstone that helps me stay aligned with my intentions, no matter what life throws my way.

My Word for 2024

I spent a few weeks this year making my list of possible words and slowly narrowed it down. ACHIEVE just kept standing out to me. I have been working to put several things in place the past few years and 2025 is all about achieving success with them.

If you’re considering choosing a word for the year, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s a beautiful way to focus your energy and set the tone for what’s to come. Whether your word is about growth, balance, courage, or something entirely different, let it be a light that guides you.

Happy Arting,

Mary

Finding comfort and connection through creativity

 In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, creativity has a way of bringing us back to ourselves. This is the heart behind my newest video series, *Handmade Magic: Crafted for the Season*. I created this series as a way to offer a positive distraction—a small, meaningful escape from the heaviness around us. Through hands-on projects you can make at home, I hope to bring a little bit of light, joy, and a sense of connection, both to the craft and to those with whom you’ll share your creations.   

Growing up, I remember the magic of handmade gifts—the ones that still stand out in my memory. They were gifts of time, effort, and thoughtfulness. I want to bring that feeling back, to invite you to make something that matters and to offer a gift that truly lasts.  When I think about the holidays of my childhood, the gifts I treasure most were handmade. I can vividly recall the hand-knitted scarves, painted ornaments, and carefully crafted cards that family members and friends gifted me. These items weren’t flashy or expensive, but they meant everything to me because they felt so personal. 

 There’s something magical about receiving a gift that someone made just for you. Every stitch, brushstroke, or folded paper represents time and care. That’s what makes handmade gifts stand out—they’re about connection, intention, and love. 

 As I’ve gotten older, the value of those handmade moments has only grown. In creating this series, I wanted to bring back that sense of warmth and meaning, helping others discover the joy of crafting gifts with their own hands. 

 This series is all about simplicity and accessibility. Over the course of five videos, I’ll guide you through easy-to-make projects that are perfect for gift-giving. Whether you’re crafting for friends, family, or yourself, these projects are designed to be approachable for all skill levels.  One of my favorite things about these creations is how reproducible they are. You can make several in a short period, which is perfect if you want to spread some handmade magic to multiple people. Plus, most of the supplies are likely already in your home, making these projects both budget-friendly and sustainable. 

 Each video includes clear, step-by-step instructions, so you can follow along at your own pace. I want this process to feel joyful, not stressful. Crafting should be a way to unwind, connect, and add a personal touch to the season.

Want to join me for a Handmade Holiday? Click here

Are you an art superhero?

Creative bravery isn’t about being fearless. Let’s be honest—fear never really goes away. It’s about feeling the fear, maybe having a good old-fashioned freakout, and doing the thing anyway. Being creatively brave means embracing your inner mad scientist and experimenting with your art in ways that are thrilling, uncertain, and, yes, sometimes a little messy. Here’s what creative bravery means for mixed media artists like us, and why it’s the most important tool in your art kit:

Willing to Try New Things (Even if it’s Weird or Terrible)
If you’ve ever found yourself holding a hairdryer over a puddle of paint, you already know this: trying new things in your art can be, well, bizarre. But the beauty of mixed media is that anything goes—until it doesn’t. Being brave means giving yourself permission to make something truly awful, because without that risk, there’s no room for greatness. Sometimes, bravery looks like gluing feathers to a canvas. Other times, it’s learning how to unglue them after realizing that was a terrible idea.

Be OK with Being Bad at Something (It’s a Skill, I Promise)
Here’s the thing: you will be bad at new things. And that’s a gift. When you can laugh at your wobbly first attempt at something, you’re already ahead of the game. Creative bravery is being okay with stumbling through your first few—dozen—tries. Your first art journal spread might look like an over-enthusiastic toddler’s finger-painting. So what? You’re learning. Give yourself a pat on the back for showing up, even if the end result looks like it belongs on the refrigerator door rather than in a gallery.

Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome (AKA Enjoy the Chaos)
Let’s admit it: we all want that perfect end product, that showstopper piece that’s going to get all the Instagram likes. But creative bravery means taking a deep breath, tossing out the expectation of perfection, and diving into the process. Paint with your hands. Rip things up. If it ends up looking like a flaming dumpster? Congratulations! You’ve embraced the process. In the end, the journey of creating is what fuels growth. The final result is just a bonus.

Let Go of Limiting Beliefs (They're Boring Anyway)
We’ve all got that voice in our heads that says, "You’re not good enough" or "You can’t pull this off." Newsflash: that voice is a liar. Creative bravery means grabbing those limiting beliefs by the scruff of the neck, shaking them loose, and sending them packing. Tell yourself a different story—one where you are capable, are talented, and totally have what it takes to make something incredible (even if it’s just for you).

Accept Where You Are in Your Creative Cycle (Yes, Even the Weird, Unproductive Parts)
Sometimes, your creative cycle looks like a fireworks display of inspiration. Other times, it’s more of a slow-cooker situation—you’re just simmering in ideas with nothing quite coming to a boil. Creative bravery is about respecting where you are, even if that place is the artistic equivalent of Netflix and pajamas. You’re not a creative machine; you’re an artist. Trust the down times—they’re where your next big idea is brewing.

Letting Go of Something (Because Even Superheroes Need a Break)
Sometimes bravery isn’t about picking up a new technique—it’s about dropping the brush entirely. Letting go of an idea, a project, or even a whole medium that’s just not serving you can be a huge act of creative courage. Maybe you need a break, or maybe you need to break up with something in your practice. Either way, stepping back is often the bravest move you can make. After all, real strength lies in knowing when to rest.

So the next time you hesitate before trying something out of your comfort zone, remember: creative bravery is about embracing the unknown, the imperfect, and the process. Go ahead—be bold, be bad, and most of all, be brave.

Next time we’ll talk about how to cultivate your creative bravery.

How much are you packing?

My mom had knee replacement surgery a few weeks ago, so I traveled to Maryland to help her out while she recovers. I knew I would have time for art-ing. I started out by deciding to fly Southwest so I could have two free checked bags. The quest was to travel with the minimal amount of clothing, allowing for as many art supplies as my 50 pound limit could hold. 😂

I’m happy to say that both bags were under 50 pounds and no one questioned why a suitcase had 5 glue sticks, 4 pairs of scissors and a bag of paint.

I’ll share exactly what I brought and am making while I am here, but what would you bring? What are your must-haves, what could you do without and what would you find substitutes for when you arrive at your destination?

Color theory for the gel plate

With all the fun of gelli printing, who wants to follow rules?

Not me, but a basic understanding of color theory can help you create papers that you love.

When first starting to use your gelli plate, don’t bother with most color theory. Just have fun! The only rule I recommend starting with is picking one side of the color wheel. Do you lean towards blue and greens (cool colors) or red and oranges (warm colors)? Start with whichever side calls to you. Mixing any shade of blue or green will give you appealing color mixes. That same with red and orange. The problem happens when you cross colors from opposite sides. In equal quantities, a warm and a cool color will typically make a brown-ish color (otherwise known as “making mud”). When you are first starting, I don’t want you to have to worry about colors. I want you to get to know your gel plate, how the brayer works, which paper you like and how to create different effects on your plate. Once you dive a little deeper, then you can explore some color mixes.

I’ll continue exploring color theory with you over the next few weeks.