🎨A Day in My Studio – What It's Really Like Being a Designer

Step inside my studio on any given day, and you’ll find a swirl of color, creativity, and—let’s be honest—a bit of beautiful chaos.

 

As a designer, illustrator, and lifelong lover of joyful living, my days don’t always follow a perfect schedule. Some moments are wildly productive and focused; others are more fluid, intuitive, even spontaneous. That’s the dance of the creative life—and it’s taken me years to not just accept it, but embrace it.

 

Lately though, I’ve been leaning into a new rhythm. One with a little more structure, a little more breathing room, and a lot more intention. Because when I block out focused time for just one thing at a time—whether it’s sketching new florals, refining a pattern for licensing, or writing a blog post like this—I create space for deeper joy and better flow.

 

So, what does a day in the studio really look like?

Here’s a peek into my office as I enter for the day...

 

 

 

☀️ Morning Light + Mindset

My day usually begins with a quiet cup of lemon water and a quick glance at my to-do list. I keep a running journal with priorities (OneNote ❤️, thank you!), and I’ve recently gone back to using time blocks (hello, color-coded calendar!) to help me carve out focused windows for design, business, and life.

 

Sometimes, the morning is for painting—a new bridal bouquet commission, selecting finishes for an interiors project, or adding details to a pattern in progress. Other days, it’s emails, mockups, or checking in on collaborations. I might switch gears a few times, but I try to anchor each morning in one major focus. (Trying is the keyword!)

 

 

🎨 Creative Core Time

Midday is when the real magic tends to happen. This is when I dive deep into the heart of a project—whether it’s fine-tuning colors in a vibrant repeat, writing a newsletter, or snapping photos of my newest prints for the shop.

 

I usually have music playing, my dogs snoozing nearby, and—if I’m lucky—the studio bathed in that dreamy natural light. My space is designed for joy: watercolor table, sewing station, stand-up desk, and prints that make me smile. I’m a big believer that your environment shapes your energy, and I’ve worked hard to make mine feel inspiring and flexible.

 

New headshot

📸 Autumn Calvert Studios 

 

📬 Connection + Business Bits

Afternoons are often reserved for what I call connection work—writing to my newsletter subscribers, following up with licensing partners, planning upcoming launches, or dreaming up the next joyful collection. It’s the behind-the-scenes hustle that keeps Julie M Studios growing and glowing.

 

This is also when I pause to breathe, reflect, and ask: what’s working? What’s bringing joy? What needs adjusting?

 

 

 

✨ The Honest Truth

Not every day is perfectly productive. I jump around. I second-guess. I forget to eat lunch (oops). But each day, I return to my why—to infuse life with color, tell stories through art, and create designs that spark everyday joy.

 

Being a designer is equal parts magic and mess. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

 

 

Whether you’re an artist, a fellow creative, or just curious what it looks like to live this colorful, purpose-driven life—I’m so glad you’re here. Thanks for stepping into my world for a bit.

 

Want to see more of my studio life? 🖼️ I’ll be sharing a few behind-the-scenes shots (and maybe a puppy pic or two!) in my next newsletter.

 

📬 Not on the list yet? Click here to subscribe and join the creative joy.

 

Until next time,

Jules ✨

 

✨ Now Accepting New Projects!

Whether you're a brand looking for a mural design, vibrant surface design, or dreaming of a floral keepsake, I’d love to hear from you.
📝 Submit a project inquiry and let’s create something beautiful together.