I’m excited to share that I’ve completed my first puzzle book after working on it for quite some time. During my research, I discovered a lack of puzzle books or activity books that represent alternative cultures, so I decided to create my own. I’m thrilled with the outcome!
The activity book includes word searches, mazes, Kakuro, Sudoku, Nurikabe, crosswords, word scrambles, and numerous coloring pages. The book’s aesthetic is a fusion of Gothic and Cottagecore, creating a creepy yet cozy feel. I’m extremely happy with how it turned out, as it not only looks great but also offers engaging puzzles with varying degrees of difficulty, and relaxation with the coloring pages. I believe I’ve created a unique fusion that many people will enjoy. I truly hope others appreciate the book as much as I enjoyed creating it.
This has been a significant learning experience for me. As a lover of puzzle books, I’ve kept people like myself in mind while creating this. Although the main focus of these books is the content itself – the puzzles – I wanted it to be aesthetically pleasing too. I’m proud of the images I’ve included throughout the book and believe it is both attractive and functional.
The process hasn’t been easy. Despite not being a graphic designer, I have a knack for graphic design and enjoy using images, which is why I’ve loved creating coloring books and products on Etsy. This project presented a steep learning curve for me, especially with my learning difficulties. I initially thought creating a puzzle book or activity book would be out of the question. Yes, it took a long time, but I’ve learned valuable skills that I can apply to future projects. The research process was straightforward as I follow a strict plan for each book or product I create. However, creating the activity book itself was the challenging part. Visualizing what should go on each page and how the pages fit together turned out to be more complicated than I expected.
Fortunately, my husband has been a great support, always there to help me out of any pits I seem to fall into. While I’m the one creating these products, and I work from early AM to late PM every day, I have to give the majority of the credit to my husband. Without him, I might have never started on this journey. I’ve had these ideas in my head for a long time, but he gave me the courage to pursue them. After losing my career, he understood how much this meant to me and has been nothing but supportive since I began. He listens to me rant, shout, and cry, serves as my proof-reader, my champion, my whole world. He motivates me to open my laptop every day, but also encourages me to take breaks when I need to (I’m my own worst enemy when it comes to taking care of myself!). Without him, I would be nothing. So, to my husband Mark, thank you. Thank you for everything. You are my rock and the reason I get up every day. This one is for you 🥰
Check out my offerings on Amazon and Etsy!
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/BewitchedCuriosStore
