Somerset Place

When we work on each issue of In Her Studio — the magazine that paved the way for this new, exciting title — we lament the many photos of artwork and creations we can’t fit into articles that primarily focus on studios. We are so thrilled to devote the pages of MADE to the unique, handmade creations of female artists and makers. Fantasy-inspired wood carvings, cyanotype-printed clothing, wood-fired ceramics, and so many more creations wait within our premier issue, celebrating the beauty and brilliance of what women are capable of. Here, we share a peek into a few of the stunning articles in our inaugural issue, along with some inspiring insights generously shared by the artists.  

LALY MILLE⎟ MADE IN HER STUDIO VOLUME 1

The Joy of Mixed-Media

Laly Mille is a French mixed-media artist, creative guide, and online teacher living in the beautiful Loire Valley of France. She believes that art connects us to the deepest, most beautiful parts of ourselves, and that beauty and creativity have the power to change the world in magical ways. Through her online classes, she’s on a mission to inspire like-minded creatives from all over the world to bravely shine their light. Laly has a heart-centered, non-academic teaching style, and over the years she has supported thousands of aspiring artists to embrace their creative calling and find their wings. Find plenty of inspiration and free art resources on Laly’s brand-new website, lalymille.com, and follow Laly on Instagram (@lalymille).

Ideas for Low-Cost (or Free!) Collage Materials by Laly Mille

• Ask friends and family for pretty paper napkins and paper doilies, save colorful tissue paper from the florist, and take home fun disposable placemats from restaurants. 
• Magazines are a fantastic resource for images, patterns, colors, and inspiring text to use in backgrounds. Ask your local library (or your doctor’s office) for outdated issues they no longer need — tell them it’s for an art project!
• Make it a habit to take pictures of colors and textures with your phone, and then print your favorites. Laser prints are best because they’re water-resistant. If using an inkjet printer, do a test first to check if the ink bleeds. 
• There are tons of vintage images and ephemera online that you can download for free. Libraries and museums around the world have digitized entire books with vintage illustrations at a high resolution, and they’re copyright-free. 
• It’s easy to make your own customized collage papers with paint, ink, stencils, stamps, and more.
• To re-create the look of vintage book pages and sheet music, print in black and white, and then stain with a warm tea-bag or strong coffee.
• Paper is not the only material you can use for collage. Start collecting bits of fabric and lace from old clothes, small objects like buttons and broken jewelry, and elements from nature like dried seeds and feathers. 

ANNIE ISA⎟ MADE IN HER STUDIO VOLUME 1

Annie’s Mystery Corner

If you’re drawn to whimsical tales and adventures bursting with imagination, welcome — you’ve found the right corner! From one-of-a-kind dolls to illustrations, paintings, and more, Annie Isa invites you to stop by and say hi on Instagram (@annie.isa), TikTok (@annie.isa), and Etsy, anniesmysterycorner.etsy.com, or email her at annie.isaaa@gmail.com.

Advice for Artists by Annie Isa

• Sketchbooks: I always keep a sketchbook, as it is the best way to capture little ideas and doodles as they come. When I flip back through it later, I find my own drawings full of unexpected inspiration.
• Online inspiration: I browse Pinterest for inspiration, as it’s a treasure trove of colors and clever projects that can spark fresh ideas.
• Reuse and recycle: I reuse cardboard boxes in my art; they can be perfect for my pop‑up projects, miniature scenes, or sturdy bases — plus, they’re eco‑friendly and budget‑friendly.
• The power of photography: I photograph my work thoughtfully. Good lighting and a simple background can really make my creations shine. Then, I use apps like Lightroom, PicsArt, or Photoshop to give the photos a final whimsical touch.
• In the details: Add tiny details to your orders. A beautiful ribbon on the packaging or a handwritten thank‑you note shows extra care. It also lets customers and collectors know how much you appreciate their support and love for your work.
• Community: Share your creative corner online. A quick photo or story about your workspace on social media lets people feel connected to your process.

SUCHARITA SENGUPTA⎟ MADE IN HER STUDIO VOLUME 1

Whimsy, Wonder & Watercolor

Sucharita Sengupta Suri is a watercolor artist based in Mumbai, India. A design graduate from the National Institute of Design, India, she has been running her communication design studio since 2010. Sucharita has created a large body of personal work as well as worked with various international brands, publishing houses, and showcased her work in exhibitions both nationally and internationally. The art she creates is an extension of the world that resides in her mind, drawing inspiration from the beauty, oddities, and anomalies of nature. Fascinated by the Cabinet of Curiosities, fables, and folklore, she aims to evoke a similar sense of wonder and curiosity through her work. See more on her website, sucharitas.world, and Instagram (@sucharitas).

Tips From the Artist

• If you’re on a budget, start with good-quality paper. It makes or breaks a watercolor painting, especially when learning. Poor paper can frustrate even skilled hands.
• Never throw away old paintbrushes! They can create magical, unexpected textures. And ceramic palettes are a great addition.
• Use salt, tea, paper napkins, and all sorts of things to create texture.
• Follow recommendations from fellow artists and always check reviews before investing in expensive tools. There’s a wealth of free tutorials online.
• Consistency is key. When you paint regularly, certain colors, shapes, or subjects will naturally reappear. These evolve into your unique visual language. Style isn’t something you invent; it’s something you uncover by doing the work.
• In a visual field like ours, presentation matters. Develop a cohesive aesthetic.
• Don’t be afraid to talk about your work — it’s not bragging, it’s storytelling. You are your own best spokesperson.

Ready to explore more? Check out our special release today!

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