There are some products that immediately make me think about techniques. Others make me think about color.

This collection made me think about restraint.

As paper crafters, we spend a lot of time learning how to add. More layers. More texture. More dimension. More embellishments. Those things absolutely have their place, but every now and then a collection comes along that reminds me there’s just as much power in choosing not to add something.

The illustrations in Josh Griffiths’ Storybook Illustrations Collection already feel complete. They have the warmth and personality of a favorite children’s book, so instead of building elaborate scenes around them, I found myself editing. Every decision became less about what I could include and more about what actually deserved to stay.

It’s an interesting exercise because empty space suddenly has a purpose. A sentiment has to become part of the composition instead of simply filling a blank area. Even embellishments need a reason to exist.

I think that’s one of my favorite things about creating cards. Every product teaches you something different if you let it. Sometimes it’s a new coloring technique. Sometimes it’s a clever fold. And sometimes it’s simply learning that the strongest design decision is trusting beautiful artwork enough to let it speak for itself.