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Attention all creatives who dream of licensing your work:
What if you finally knew exactly how to build a creative business you’re proud of and the income to match it?
creative mentorship
Even if you don’t know how to get licensed, build a business, or where to start
I've created a Mentorship
for you.
right now…
You’re scrolling through Instagram again, quietly admiring the work of your favorite artists and designers, while a dozen half-finished designs have sat on your desk untouched for weeks.
Why does it seem like everyone else is announcing another licensing deal or introducing another gorgeous collection to their portfolio?
You’re struggling to produce one piece you’re happy with, let alone a whole collection. And your signature style? No idea what it is.
The one time you almost worked up the courage to share one of your art pieces on your Instagram account, you uploaded it and hovered with your thumb over the share button, your mind racing.
What if no one likes it? What if it’s not actually any good?
So, you deleted it.
You justified yourself by saying…
Maybe when I have more experience and better skills, that’s when I’ll start sharing my work online. I just don’t have enough talent yet.
Who am I to think I can make money from my art? There’s already too many people doing this. There’s no room for me.
I don’t actually have the time to see this through anyway, so why even bother?
I’m too far behind. I already have another career. There’s no point in pursuing this further.
Making real income from my art is just a pipe dream.
Sure, you’ve learned a lot, but in the end, when you sit down to create, you’re always left asking… “but what do I do next?”
You’re collecting courses, information, and knowledge — without getting any closer to your goal.
But deep in your heart, you can’t shake that longing to create beautiful art…
PLEASE HEAR ME:
Listen to that longing.
Don’t give up on this dream just yet.
There’s a reason you feel stuck, and guess what? It has nothing to do with you. There’s a lot of programs out there that teach artists like you how to use surface pattern design to monetize your artwork, but here’s where many of them fall short:
Fragmented road map
Yes, you have to grow and refine your skills if you want to make an income from your art. But that’s only one piece of the puzzle. You also need to master market research, build a brand presence, and market yourself. Each of these elements is key to growing a profitable creative business, but many courses only focus on one of these areas, leaving you to piece together the rest.
Lack of mentorship + feedback
Even if you do have a good road map, it’s hard to make progress in isolation. To experience real growth, you need personal + actionable feedback from a mentor who is further down the path than you.
Gatekeeping culture
Some creators share bits and pieces of their process or roadmap… but not enough to actually be helpful. They withhold key details or steps that are critical to successfully navigating the surface design industry.
Ignoring the heart work
Putting your art out into the world is scary. If you want to succeed in creating the business (and life) you want, you have to face these fears, practice vulnerability, and build a resilient mindset. This might be the most overlooked aspect of building a creative business.
HI THERE
I'm Melissa
A self-taught artist, creative business owner + mentor, and mom of three who’s most at home in my peaceful Midwest country home, with a paintbrush in hand.
Back when I started consistently landing licensing opportunities for my surface pattern designs, my DMs began overflowing with questions from early-stage artists. They were desperate to know what I was doing to get licensed and make money from my art.
As I answered many of the same questions over and over, I realized I had stumbled upon a road map to implement my creative skills and generate an income from my artwork.
Once the realization hit me, I knew I didn’t want to keep this road map to myself.
But I also knew the road map itself wouldn’t be enough for people to replicate my results — because each creative journey has its own unique twists, turns, and nuances.
What’s really needed to accelerate along the path to monetizing your artwork?
A guide, a mentor, who holds your hand along the way.
And that, my friends, is how the Creative Mentorship was born.
the
Creative
Mentorship
The high-touch, hands-on community for early stage artists who want to monetize their work, build an art-based brand, and grow a profitable creative business through surface pattern design.
Inside the Mentorship, you’ll…
Once your inside…
The core modules form the foundation for everything else that happens inside the Mentorship:
Define and build your brand
Learn how to build a strong and recognizable brand identity that sets you apart and embodies your unique creative story. You don’t need a huge following to attract the right opportunities, but you do need a clear creative identity that helps you show up online with purpose, clarity, and visual cohesion.
Walk away with… a plan to start building a cohesive Instagram portfolio, strategically position yourself for aligned collaborations, and identify your dream clients.
Unleash your creative process
Start using a repeatable process that helps you bring concepts to life, instead of waiting for inspiration to strike. We’ll demystify what goes into licensing artwork (and contracts) so you feel empowered to say yes to collaborations with confidence. This is where art and business begin to blend — without sacrificing your creative voice.
Walk away with… a customized creative process that keeps you inspired and productive, plus a foundational understanding of how licensing works — so you can recognize opportunities, protect your work, and create art that’s ready for real-world partnerships.
Creating + digitizing your work
Learn how to create artwork that’s not only beautiful, but licensing-ready. Art that’s both aligned with your signature style and what companies are looking for.
I’ll guide you through each stage of the design process, from painting and digitizing to choosing between Photoshop and Illustrator — with clarity on when, why, and how to use each. You’ll also explore how to prep your art for seamless repeat patterns, product applications, and portfolio use.
Walk away with… clarifying questions to ask at the start of every project or collaboration, a clear understanding of your digital tools, and when to use Photoshop vs. Illustrator.
Marketing + collaborations
Discover how to show up with confidence and build a portfolio that speaks for itself. It’s not enough to simply create beautiful artwork. You also need to market and display your work in a way that attracts licensing partners and collaborations. We’ll cover how to showcase your designs using mockups and how to use print-on-demand platforms like Spoonflower.
Walk away with… a marketing strategy that feels aligned and accessible, a suite of polished mockups that showcase your art in real-world settings, and the steps to set up your Spoonflower shop.
And that's just the beginning…
you'll also get
Monthly Calls with Guest Experts
Hear from some of the biggest names in surface pattern design on topics like…
Marketing on Instagram + Pinterest | Artistic style + creative inspiration | Spoonflower shops | Design techniques | Selling on Etsy and more...
Quarterly Art Licensing Calls
Get a real art brief from a licensing company (think Loomwell Home Goods or Carriage House Printery), and submit your collection for a chance to have your designs selected for licensing. You can even pre-submit your collection beforehand to get feedback from me and from the community to further improve your designs.
Feedback + Mentoring
Gain access to the constructive feedback and mentoring you need to move forward confidently. Not only do you have access to a rich and supportive creative community where you can crowdsource your questions – you also get access to me in the Creative Mentorship. I actively respond to questions in the group and provide feedback on artwork each week.
Supportive Creative Community
Join a heart-centered community of other artists and designers who are also on a journey to build a profitable creative business. This is a safe space for emerging artists to ask questions, celebrate wins, be encouraged, and give + receive feedback.
“What changed everything for me was having a real mentor to walk beside me.”
I was almost ready to give up my dream of licensing my artwork. I just felt stuck, discouraged, and like nothing I tried was working. What changed everything for me was having a real mentor to walk beside me. Melissa helped me identify clear next steps to take, and most importantly, she helped me believe in myself again. Now I'm creating consistently, building a portfolio I'm proud of, and submitting to real art briefs. I still have lots to learn, but I'm finally doing the kind of work I dreamed of.
- Emily Tucci
Recap of everything included:
4 Course Modules
($350 value)
Monthly Studio Calls with Guest Experts
($350 value)
Quarterly Art Licensing Calls
($400 value)
Supportive Creative Community
($350 value)
Your Plan for Feedback + Mentoring
($1,100 value)
TOTAL VALUE: $2,550
Available for just $27/month
THEIR JOURNEY SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
More than 30% of members landed their first licensing contract within the first six months of joining the Mentorship.
If you haven’t realized it yet,
the Mentorship is a special community.
Curious if it’s right for you?
The Creative Mentorship has a spot with your name on it if…
✔ You don’t have a business yet, but want to start generating income from your artwork.
✔ You've launched a creative business and created some collections, but are struggling to figure out how to scale into more than just a side hustle.
✔ You've taken surface pattern design courses and/or have basic skills with Illustrator, but you’re looking for more support in your next step.
✔ You're tired of feeling overwhelmed and second guessing yourself, and wish someone would take you by the hand and show you the path.
✔ You dream of getting your collections licensed and seeing your designs on real products, but don’t know where to begin.
The Mentorship may not be for you if…
✖ You already have a thriving creative business that’s generating consistent income.
✖ You view other designers as rivals to compete with, rather than fellow artists to encourage + learn from.
✖ You’re looking for a fast track, magic solution, or hack to start landing collaborations and generating income fast.
✖ You’re not open to giving or receiving feedback.
✖ You’re not interested in surface pattern design as a way to scale revenue from your artwork.
the Mentor’s Pledge
Our No-Questions-Asked Cancellation Policy
Listen, friend. I already know you’re a brilliant artist — full of vision and brimming with potential.
I see that in you. And I hope you can see it, too.
You’re here because you want to create meaningful artwork and make an income doing what you love.
I created this mentorship for artists just like you — the ones who dream of seeing their work out in the wild. On wallpaper, tea towels, baby clothes, stationery, bedding.
Because let’s be honest: the path from creating to licensing can feel confusing, overwhelming, and out of reach.
I wish we were sitting together over a cup of coffee, so I could look you in the eye and say: “You can do this. I’ll be right beside you.”
That’s why this membership exists —
There is no secret hack to building your creative business overnight. You still have to show up, do the work, and walk the path.
But I can promise – you don’t have to figure it out alone.
I’ll be there walking beside you every step of the way, along with the other artists in our community.
You’ll never be left floundering and second-guessing your next step.
And if at any point you need to step away, pause, or take a breath — you can cancel or pause your membership at any time, no questions asked.
We’ll be right here waiting when you’re ready to pick back up what you started.
“Melissa is one of the most delightful individuals I've ever known.
As one of my Immersion alumni, I've gotten a first-hand glimpse of her story. It is beautiful, filled with helpful truths and sweet reminders. I hope it encourages you too."
- Bonnie Christine
surface pattern designer +
founder of the Immersion course
Who is this gal with the paint smudges?
Hi, I’m Melissa. I believe your creativity can be your career, if you want it to be.
But I didn’t always think that.
I used to think creativity was nothing more than a hobby. For years, I kept my creative side small and hidden, fearful of creating ‘bad’ art.
But in the quiet moments when my kids weren’t calling out for me, I started to create. Sketch. Hand letter. Paint. And finally, I worked up the courage to start sharing my work.
I started getting commission requests, so I opened an Etsy shop. Even though I’d tasted how good it felt to make money from my artwork, something still didn’t feel quite right. The time and energy I was putting into my art felt disproportionate to the income I was making from it. I knew this wouldn’t be sustainable.
That’s when I discovered the world of surface pattern design. Here, your artwork can be leveraged again and again on products and for licensing, creating higher and more consistent income.
I jumped in wholeheartedly and never looked back.
Since then, I’ve learned how to create license-ready collections and landed many of my dreamiest collaborations. I’ve experienced the satisfaction of seeing my designs sold on all kinds of products, all while making an income from my artwork.
But it hasn’t been without its challenges. My journey has had its ups and downs, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.
The Creative Mentorship is for all the artists out there like me, who long to make their art more than a hobby. It’s everything I wish I’d had when I was in the early stages of launching my creative career and learning how
I hope you’ll join us.
“Not only did she examine my portfolio in detail, but she also provided constructive feedback that was insightful, clear, and to the point.”
Melissa’s enthusiasm and support are truly motivating. As is her ability to simplify things and connect them to something natural and flowing. Not only did she examine my portfolio in detail, but she also provided constructive feedback that was insightful, clear, and to the point. Melissa also offered practical advice on licensing opportunities and shared valuable references. Her support feels genuine and her suggestions are both far-sighted and crystal clear
- Adeline B.
Other artists have asked these questions before joining:
I don’t have a portfolio yet. Do I need to have one before I can join?
Nope! In fact, many people join without a portfolio or just a partial portfolio. Inside the Mentorship, you’ll find resources to help you develop a portfolio with well rounded, inspired collections that reflect your creative voice.
We’ll also talk about how to use social media as your portfolio so you can increase your visibility and attract more opportunities than when your best work stays hidden on your computer.
What if I’m not sure what my artistic style is yet?
This is so normal. Finding your signature style comes from creating artwork, not before. If you wait to start creating until you know your style, you’ll be waiting forever. Discovering your style is a process to embrace and enjoy. The Mentorship will help you do that!
I’ve taken so many courses already… how is this going to be different?
I get it! You’re tired of consuming content without making real progress. That’s why the Mentorship is designed to be so much more than a course. You’ll still have access to modules with step-by-step tutorials, but more than that, you’ll have the guided support you need to take your next step. You’ll get feedback on your artwork and join an intimate community of other artists who are on the journey with you.
What if I’m scared to share my work?!
This is a common sentiment shared by most early-stage artists. But these fears must be worked through if you want to grow a successful creative business. Inside the Mentorship, we take the time to do the real heart work of addressing these inner hesitations that block our creativity and hold us back from reaching our full potential.
How do I know this will work for me?
If you’re asking this, it probably means you’ve tried other courses, bought the books, maybe even dipped into other memberships — and still feel like something’s missing.
That’s exactly why this mentorship exists. Not to throw more information at you, but to give you the structure, encouragement, and personal feedback you need to finally take action.
You don’t have to do this alone anymore. This time, you’ll have someone walking the path alongside you, helping you follow through with each next step.
I don’t have a business yet, but I’d like to. Can I still join?
Yes, you can! You don’t have to have an official business to start growing your personal brand and sharing your work.
What happens if I need to take a break?
While I am an advocate of creating the time and space to work on your dreams, I also know that sometimes life happens. If you need to step away, hit pause, or take a breath — you can cancel or pause your membership at any time, no questions asked. We’ll be here waiting to support you when you’re ready to come back!
“Melissa’s coaching style built my confidence and cemented in my mind that I can do this!”
I was so excited after taking Immersion, but I just wasn't sure what to do next. I had no portfolio and definitely didn't feel ready to pitch to companies. Melissa offered the practical, bite-sized next steps and the personal connection I needed. She genuinely wants us to succeed and holds nothing back — there's no gatekeeping with her. The Mentorship is what's helping me put what I've learned into action and carve a path forward as a surface pattern designer."
- Dale Bialas.
What's included:
4 Course Modules
($350 value)
Monthly Studio Calls with Guest Experts
($350 value)
Quarterly Art Licensing Calls
($400 value)
Supportive Creative Community
($350 value)
Your Plan for Feedback + Mentoring
($1,100 value)
TOTAL VALUE: $2,550
Available for just $27/month
What makes The Creative Mentorship different from the other courses and groups you’ve tried?
I’m so glad you asked.
The Creative Mentorship gives you...
✔ Get personalized support and feedback
With hands-on mentorship and thoughtful feedback on your designs, business, or marketing strategy, you’ll never feel like a number in this intimate community.
✔ Learn how to make the leap from making art to selling + licensing it
The Mentorship supports both portfolio development and marketing strategy, helping you chart a clear path from creation to income.
✔ Get heart-centered support + coaching
Mindset and heart work are baked into this membership to help you overcome imposter syndrome and set yourself up for success.
✔ Join a warm, intimate community
Over here, we don’t compete with each other. We cheer for each other. It’s a safe place to grow, build relationships, ask questions, and get feedback.
What the Other Courses + Memberships gives you...
✖ Get lost in the crowd
Little to no individual feedback. You’re often one of hundreds, with no clear path forward.
✖ Consume more content without real progress
You learn a lot, but are left wondering how to actually put it into action — or monetize your work.
✖ Feel pressure to “perform” or keep up
No one talks about the emotional side of creative growth. You’re left to manage self-doubt on your own.
✖ Navigate large, noisy groups alone It’s hard to connect. You either lurk or disappear — and rarely feel truly seen.
“I've done other courses and memberships, but I always felt overwhelmed and unsure where to start.”
Nothing quite clicked. This mentorship is different. It gave me the structure, feedback, and support I needed to take intentional next steps in creating art and building my brand. And it connected me to real people and opportunities to improve my skills and grow my business. I landed my first licensing deal through her program!
- Nicole Bernat
Hearten Design
Chasing your dreams can feel scary
IT’S SO MUCH SAFER TO STAY IN “SOMEDAY” MODE
Someday, after…
→ My kids are a little older
→ I’ve nailed my signature style
→ I have more time and confidence
→ I finish that next course
→ I finally feel ready
But here’s the truth: you’ll never magically feel ready.
And if you keep waiting for “someday,” chances are you’ll just stay stuck.
➔ You’ll keep scrolling for inspiration instead of creating art to find your style
➔ You’ll keep second guessing your next move instead of taking action with clarity
➔ You’ll continue consuming content to find confidence instead of creating art to build it
➔ You’ll keep playing small instead of taking your seat at the table
Real growth happens in the margins, in the messy middle, in imperfect action.
If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to invest in your creative dream… well then, you’ll probably be waiting forever.
Can I let you in on a secret?
Mentorship isn’t the reward you get after you’ve figured it all out — it’s the path that helps you get there.
If you don’t make a move now, there’s a good chance nothing will change.
You’ll keep scrolling.
Keep doubting.
Keep waiting for clarity or confidence to arrive on their own.
And another season will pass with your dream sitting quietly on the shelf.
But if you say yes to this one next step… I can promise you the ones after will become more clear.
➔ You’ll start building real momentum
➔ You’ll finally find your creative voice
➔ You’ll begin attracting opportunities instead of just watching others succeed
➔ And you’ll finally feel like the artist and entrepreneur you’ve always known you could be
Doors to The Creative Mentorship close soon.
But more importantly, is this going to be the moment you stop waiting for “someday” to pursue your dream?
Listen Friend,
I know what it’s like to carry a dream bottled up inside… and be afraid to speak it out loud.
To have the itch to create beautiful and meaningful art… and the fear to try.
To have a longing for more… while also wrestling with self-doubt.
But I also know what’s waiting for you on the other side of that hesitation.
It’s a creative business that supports your life, lights you up, and brings your art out into the world, where it belongs.
But maybe even more importantly, building a creative business is about coming home to yourself. It’s about finding your voice and stepping into your identity, as a real artist.
I won’t pretend the journey is always easy.
But I can promise you this: It’s so much easier when you’re not doing it alone.
I’ve built this Mentorship with so much care and intention. It has everything you need to thrive as you launch + grow your creative business:
If you’re feeling the nudge, the gentle, persistent pull toward something more, I invite you to follow it.
Not because you magically feel ready.
But because you’re the kind of person who’s done sitting on the sidelines.
This is your moment to confidently say yes to the dream that keeps bubbling up inside you.
And know that I’ll be right here to walk alongside you, every step of the way.
With love + gratitude,
Melissa