Sometimes I’m asked how I became a Minted artist, what Minted actually is, and what my experience with it has been. The honest answer is that it wasn’t something I planned for but something that unfolded more naturally in a way that feels surprisingly full circle.
I first came across Minted over a decade ago (somewhere around 2013-14). I was studying Visual Communication while freelancing on the side to support myself. I can’t remember exactly how I discovered Minted but as a hungry graphic design student, I vividly remember stumbling onto their website and being taken by their stationery and paper goods created by independent artists. Their design challenges caught my attention too because winners could receive an award, which felt incredibly impactful then. Somewhere between balancing school, work, and mounting stress though, the excitement to participate just quietly slipped out of focus.
Fast forward to January 2024, I just started my business, was exploring new possibilities, and searched for ‘design challenge’ on a whim when Minted popped up. I completely forgot this community existed. They had an open challenge for a baby shower invitation which really excited me, so I downloaded the brief, was immediately inspired, and started sketching ideas. I ended up with a fully illustrated design featuring a stork, botanical, hand-lettering and a scalloped edge. I loved it so much. I titled it Sunshine, submitted it, and patiently waited.
About two months later, I received an email one afternoon and my design had been selected as an Editor’s Pick! I was so stunned and excited. From there, I submitted the requested final files and was invited to open a Minted storefront, where that design would officially be offered for sale. It marked the beginning of something entirely new for me and introduced me to the world of art licensing—an area I hadn’t previously imagined myself stepping into.
Since that first Editor’s Pick in 2024, Minted has become a meaningful part of how I share my work. Over time, several of my designs have been recognized through Editor’s Picks and top placements, which led to my first greeting cards and art prints being licensed, seasonal and holiday designs being selected, and my first feature with the Samsung Art Store.
Beyond the tangible milestones, it’s also served as a constant reminder of the value of creating work alongside others who are deeply invested in their craft. I’ve spent more time learning about the world of art licensing and thinking about how it fits into my broader business and creative goals. And the steady rhythm of challenges fits my pace as a designer while inviting play as an artist.
If there’s one takeaway I’ve carried with me through this so far…for the first time in a long time, I’m creating purely for myself. I’ve returned to a way of working that’s felt familiar and intuitive. Bridging my love for art with everyday living has become an anchor for my practice and I’ve learned how meaningful it can be to trust that instinct.
I’m still learning and exploring, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported my work along the way. Every purchase, share, and kind message helps me continue creating and finding new ways to share my work.
If you’re curious about following along when new pieces are released on Minted, I’ll be sharing links here as they become available. You can always checkout my Minted storefront here and if you ever come across my work out in the wild—whether in your home or as a gift—I’d love to see it. Tagging me @sierraleestudio on Instagram lets me experience those moments alongside you, which truly means more than I can put into words.
Thank you as always for being part of this journey.
Cheers to another year!
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