Hi Reader, Just a quick heads up that tomorrow, September 7th, is the last day of our End of Summer Sale. If you've had a class on your list, now is the time. 🍂 Whether you've been thinking about a sketchbook class, ready to start your watercolour journey, curious about bookbinding, or finally ready to say yes to life YOU design, tomorrow is your last chance to save. Enjoy 25% off ALL classes until midnight September 7th. Use code SUMMER-LID at checkout for the discount. For the first time,...
16 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, I finally visited the AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario) to enjoy the Impressionist Revolution Exhibition. I did what I said I wasn't going to do, and that was to go on a Saturday during summer break! But it was worth weaving through the crowds! I did manage to get a few minutes with each piece to observe them from a short distance and then got really up close and personal with each piece. It made me think about what I teach in my lessons about holding your painting up and at a distance...
17 days ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, There's something about September that I've always loved more than January 1st. Maybe it's the crispness in the air, or the way the light changes in the studio. Maybe it's that back-to-school feeling that never quite leaves you, no matter how old you get. But every single year, when August winds down and September steps in, I feel this quiet little shift. It's a readiness to settle into routine again, to get intentional, and to create with purpose. It's the reset I actually look...
23 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, It's here! Bookbinding Made Simple is officially open — and for the next few days, you can get in at the special launch price of $47 (regular price $67) before it goes up on July 27th. Get Instant Access Launch Price of $47 I was first introduced to book binding by my daughter after she made me a beautiful watercolor sketchbook for Christmas years ago! I've since studied techniques, taken an in-person workshop in Scotland, and continue to share my favorite techniques and love for...
2 months ago • 2 min read
Hello from the studio Reader, July is here, which means it's World Watercolor Month! I look forward to this every year, where the watercolor community slows down, picks up their brushes, and paints just for the joy of it. There's something really special about that. ❤️ And this year, I get to celebrate with a giveaway! My publisher, Quarto, has agreed to sponsor a giveaway for the Watercolor Made Simple Workbook and I'd love your help making it happen. A note from Nicki "Reviews are one of...
3 months ago • 1 min read
Hello from the studio Reader, Sorry for the repeat email. We sent out this email last week in error, but the great news is you have more time to grab a class or two! 😁A little weekend treat from the studio: all of my online classes are 40% off this weekend only. 🎨 If you’ve been wanting to start watercolor, get back into a rhythm, or choose something new to paint this summer, this is a lovely time to pick a class and give yourself a little creative reset. Use code SUMMER at checkout → Browse...
3 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Reminder from the studio: today is the last day of the Summer Sale Use code SUMMER to save 40% off all classes on learn.lifeidesign.com Until tonight, save 40% off all online classes with code SUMMER. We host sales like this one only a few times a year, so if there’s a class you’ve been eyeing, or you’ve been meaning to make more space for painting this season, this is your final chance to grab it before the sale ends. Use code SUMMER at checkout → Browse all classes Maybe this...
3 months ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, Since the cover reveal of Watercolor Made Simple Workbook, I’ve been SO excited to share some more behind-the-scenes of my newest book and the 20 new projects inside!! Watercolor Made Simple WORKBOOK will be released on April 14th, 2026, but you are able to pre-order a copy today worldwide, wherever books are sold! As a thank you for your early support, when you pre-order your copy now, you will gain access to a brand NEW live painting session with me! PRE-ORDER NOW With this new...
11 months ago • 2 min read
AUG. 2025 Exploring Wildflowers: August Inside The Artist Lounge ↓ Hey Reader, You’ve been asking for more botanical-focused projects, so I’m excited for all of the florals we’ll be painting together inside The Artist Lounge this month! Summer blooms are this month’s inspiration, featuring bright and bold colors and exciting petal shapes to explore. There’s something special about creating florals, especially wildflowers, and it’s something I do regularly. Between the organic nature of the...
about 1 year ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, Here's your invite to join me for a live painting session! A few months ago I teamed up with Etchr to design and create a limited edition watercolor sketchbook. I got to handpick the size & format of the sketchbook, the color of the cover and even added my personal touch to the inside covers as well. If you missed purchasing the collaborative watercolor sketchbook but still want to join me for a live unboxing and painting session, here's your chance! Grab your ticket and join me...
over 1 year ago • 1 min read