TOLDesign Prints & Cards
Lincolnshire
Overview
When the national lockdown began in early 2020, I found myself with an unexpected opportunity to focus on something I had always wanted to pursue: launching my own creative business. That moment of stillness became the foundation for TOLDesign, a print and stationery brand built from a place of passion, curiosity, and optimism.
Over the next three years, I designed, illustrated, printed, and sold over 6,000 unique cards, prints, and stationery items. What began as a creative outlet soon evolved into a fully functioning business, connecting me with customers across the UK and giving me the chance to collaborate with large clients such as Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Trust.
The Challenge
Starting a business during a time of uncertainty meant learning to adapt quickly. Every decision from production to fulfilment had to be handled independently, which required creative problem-solving and strong attention to detail.
The biggest challenge was to maintain the heart and authenticity of the brand while scaling it to meet growing demand and managing every stage of the process myself.
The new designs needed to:
Develop a full creative brand from concept to delivery
Balance artistic expression with commercial viability
Maintain consistency across products and packaging
Manage design, production, sales, and logistics independently
Build a brand that felt personal, joyful, and connected
Strategy and Creative Direction
I developed a distinct visual style defined by playful illustration, bold typography, and heartfelt messaging. Every design aimed to make people smile, celebrate connection, and bring joy into everyday moments.
Through experimentation with colour, print finishes, and layout, I created collections that balanced creativity with commercial appeal. My focus was on making art accessible and meaningful, whether it was a greeting card, an art print, or a commissioned piece.
Running TOLDesign also gave me the chance to explore every side of creative entrepreneurship. From product design and photography to e-commerce and customer experience.
