I recently had the chance to have a chat with Inksy (@inksightstudio) and talk about something a lot of artists quietly struggle with:
finding your style without burning out or comparing yourself into numbness.
We talked about revisiting old artwork, reconnecting with what once felt joyful, and how developing a process can feel grounding rather than restrictive. It was one of those conversations that makes you feel less alone in your creative mess.
If youâve ever looked at your own work and thought âwhy doesnât this feel like me yet?â - this one might resonate.
Iâve shared the full artist feature on the WigglyLines Studio blog. No selling, no advice-giving, just one artist honestly reflecting on her journey and what helped things click again.
âš Go show her some love if youâre into whimsical, surreal digital art.
âš And if youâre in a weird in-between phase creatively: youâre not behind.
The difference between matte and glossy (and why I always choose matte)
People often ask what the difference really is between matte and glossy prints. Not in a technical way - more in a how does it feel to live with? kind of way.
Glossy paper is bright and reflective. Colours can pop more at first glance, but it also catches light easily. Fingerprints show. Glare shows. The surface always feels a little present.
Matte paper is quieter.
It absorbs light instead of bouncing it back. Colours feel softer, more grounded. You can look at it from any angle without distraction. It feels intentional rather than shiny-for-the-sake-of-it.
I choose matte because I want my illustrations to feel calm in a space. Something you can sit with, not something that asks for attention every time the light changes.
It also feels better to touch. Thereâs a softness to it that makes the artwork feel more physical, more real. Less like a screen. More like something made.
Glossy has its place. But for the way I draw, and the way I hope people live with my work, matte feels right.
Some ideas are just meant to be explored for a moment.
Some sketches exist only to teach your hands something new.
Some projects can stay unfinished and thatâs not a failure.
Letting things remain open is part of a slow, kind creative practice.
Youâre allowed to stop.
Youâre allowed to rest.
Youâre allowed to move on.
Most people talk about art in terms of how it photographs.
How it looks on a screen. How it fits a grid.
But for me, paper is something you touch before you ever really see it.
The weight matters.
The way it bends, or doesnât.
How it absorbs colour instead of reflecting light back at you.
Thin paper feels temporary.
Good paper feels like someone meant it to last.
Thatâs why I care about texture, thickness, and finish, not as âpremium choicesâ but because they change how art is experienced. A matte surface feels quieter. A heavier sheet feels considered. You donât rush past it.
In a world where most art lives on screens, I like making things that remind you youâre holding something real.
Most people talk about art in terms of how it photographs.
How it looks on a screen. How it fits a grid.
But for me, paper is something you touch before you ever really see it.
The weight matters.
The way it bends, or doesnât.
How it absorbs colour instead of reflecting light back at you.
Thin paper feels temporary.
Good paper feels like someone meant it to last.
Thatâs why I care about texture, thickness, and finish, not as âpremium choicesâ, but because they change how art is experienced. A matte surface feels quieter. A heavier sheet feels considered. You donât rush past it.
In a world where most art lives on screens, I like making things that remind you youâre holding something real.
I love stickers, but the fear of bubbles, peeling edges, or ruining a perfectly good laptop is very real.
I love stickers, but the fear of bubbles, peeling edges, or ruining a perfectly good laptop is very real.
So, after a lot of trial, error, and overthinking, hereâs how to use vinyl stickers without wrecking your laptop or water bottle. Letâs get to the point!đ«Ą
Start with a clean surface! Stickers hate dust, oils, and mystery smudges. A quick wipe makes a huge difference.
Test the placement first! Donât peel the backing right away. Hover it, move it around, commit only when it feels right.
Go slow when sticking! Donât peel the backing off all at once. Start with a small section, stick that part down, then slowly work your way across while smoothing as you go. Use your fingers (or a card if youâre feeling fancy) to press from the center outward. Taking your time here helps avoid bubbles, wrinkles, and that âoh noâ moment halfway through.
Stick to smooth surfaces! Flat, hard finishes work best. Textured or rubbery surfaces are a gamble.
For water bottles: hand-wash is your best bet! Vinyl can handle water, but dishwashers are aggressive in a way stickers will never forgive.
Think about removal before you stick! Cases, covers, and notebooks are perfect if youâre scared of commitment.
Stickers are meant to be fun, not stressful. Take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy making your things feel a little more you.
If you ever have questions about using or caring for vinyl stickers, I am always happy to help. Just ask!