Nikki Luscombe | Creative Workshops

Category: Blog

  • Tiny Art Project: A Mixed‑Media Mermaid Diorama in an Altoids Tin

    When I started my career, I considered myself super lucky to get hired at a world-class museum and later, our city’s amazing science centre – so perhaps it’s no surprise that I have a fascination with dioramas.

    I also have a deep love and appreciation for Joseph Cornell’s assemblage work. I love how his shadow boxes make me feel like I’m in the best possible fever dream.

    And naturally, all roads lead to creating a mermaid diorama in an Altoids tin. (I’m sure you can follow the plot here.)

    Mermaid diorama inside an Altoids tin with seashells and moss

    Mermaid diorama inside an Altoids tin with seashells and moss

    I had been staring at the tin for some time, wanting to tell a story inside it. My mother’s seashell collection inspired the palette. Then, I found this lady in her bathing suit in my Extraordinary Things to Cut Out and Collage book, crying out for a shimmering tail. A fellow workshop student had once gifted me real fishing net, and suddenly everything clicked together in the heat of this summer.

    I’ve shared the pics of the process below. My materials range from moss and seashells to acrylic paints and gel plate fodder, cut-outs and vintage text – held together with adhesive foam tabs and a trusty glue gun. It was trickier than I expected, but patience (and a willingness to embrace happy accidents) goes a long way in tiny spaces.

    If you’re making your own mini‑diorama, I recommend choosing a focal figure and building layers around it. I also found it helpful to create a paper template to guide the size and shape of items before cutting and committing to the final.

    Next, I’m going to fill a sardine can. What theme would you choose for your own mini-world?

  • Collage & Connect at Georgian College

    This week, I facilitated a Collage & Connect Artist Trading Card team building workshop for Georgian College, bringing creativity, appreciation, and hands‑on connection into their all‑hands meeting.

    More than 80 team members took part, creating ATC‑style kudos cards to celebrate the ways their colleagues live the college’s values. The room was full of colour, conversation, and genuine moments of recognition — the kind of energy that reminds me why I love facilitating creative team building sessions.

    There’s something powerful about giving people space to slow down, make something by hand together, and express appreciation in a meaningful, tangible way. Georgian’s team embraced the creative process wholeheartedly, making this Artist Trading Card workshop a truly memorable experience.

    If you’re curious about bringing an ATC workshop to your own organization, you can learn more here:
    https://nikkiluscombeworkshops.com/artist-trading-cards/

  • Making new friends around the world, one ATC at a time

    Making new friends around the world, one ATC at a time

    At a recent gathering of creative souls, we found ourselves talking about the importance of inviting whimsy into our lives, especially when the world feels a little heavy.

    And what’s more whimsical than Artist Trading Cards?! Like collectible baseball cards for creatives, these tiny 2.5 x 3.5 inch artworks are made to be swapped and enjoyed. Born from a 1997 mail‑art movement started by Swiss artist M. Vanci Stirnemann, Artist Trading Cards (or ATCs, as those in the know like to call them) are always traded, never sold.

    So you can imagine my delight when I came across a post on Instagram from Laura Weiler’s @cutandplaced, encouraging artists and makers to drop comments, meet new people, and swap ATCs. Even better, artist Sigrun Kreuser @sk.ollage invited me to send them two of mine!

    I carefully chose two of my favourite ATCs, tucked them into an envelope, and sent them on their way to Europe. Then I waited. And then…

    What’s the point, you might be thinking. For me, it was the joy of waiting for something delightful to arrive. The charm of connecting with a stranger through art and paper. The sweet anticipation of snail mail — a tiny, whimsical antidote to a heavy world. I was thrilled to be part of this little international pen‑pal micro‑movement.

    If this sparks something in you, you might love creating your own ATCs. I host workshops where we explore playful, low‑pressure creativity that helps to connect people in the most unexpected ways. Reach out (or send me some mail) and I’ll tell you all about it.

  • A Tour Through My Journal Ecosystem

    My eight‑year‑old self would be quite delighted to know that I now have something called a journal ecosystem — because surely that means I’m living a wildly exciting life. (Eight‑year‑old me also loved writing detailed accounts of most meals she ate. She had some very deep feelings about lasagna.)

    My 50‑plus self loves my journal ecosystem for different reasons. I recently learned the term refers to the habit of keeping many notebooks at once, and honestly, it feels like a good description of how I manage my world. My journals give me space to express my thoughts and feelings without judgment, while playing, planning, and processing.

    In the photo below, you’ll see my current stack. Let me take you on a little tour — from the bottom up:

    Stack of creative journals including an art journal, bullet journal, sketchbook, and notebooks used for mixed‑media play and workshop planning.

    Art Journal

    Started during my time at the wonderful Haliburton School of Art, this journal is filled with mixed‑media experiments and playful explorations. It’s my reminder that creativity doesn’t need an outcome, just curiosity.

    Inner‑Most Thoughts Journal

    Not its official name, but definitely its purpose. This is where I pour out the hard stuff — the dark‑night‑of‑the‑soul reflections, the stream‑of‑consciousness rambles, the emotional check‑ins. It’s grounding to look back and see how thoughts shift and soften over time.

    Bullet Journal

    My planning sanctuary. It’s where I map out tasks, hopes, and goals month by month, and hold myself gently accountable. And yes, it’s a great excuse to use my fun stationery.

    Sketchbook

    A square-format favourite for impulsive doodles, quick experiments, and trying out ideas I stumble across online. It’s low‑pressure, high‑play.

    Side Quest Notebook

    This one lives in my purse and comes with me to meetings with collaborators for my creative workshop business. It’s perfect for capturing ideas, scribbling notes, and brainstorming new workshop concepts in my fast and scribbly handwriting.

    Not Pictured: My Junk Journals

    I also keep a little hand‑stitched junk journal on the go, where I create playful spreads using bits and pieces collected from restaurants, events and the occasional irresistible piece of junk mail.

    Maybe you have a journal ecosystem too. I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

    And if you’d like to chat about collaborating or joining one of my creative workshops, please reach out. I’ve got just the right journal ready for jotting down our ideas.

  • Six Crafty Tools I Always Reach For

    As a maker and workshop facilitator, I’ve spent years experimenting with all kinds of tools and supplies. But there are a few materials I return to again and again because they’re reliable, versatile, and fun to use.

    1. Tombow Dual Brush Pens

    These pens are a staple in my studio. Each one has two tips: a flexible brush tip that mimics a paintbrush, and a fine bullet tip for detail work. The water-based ink blends beautifully, allowing for watercolor effects without the mess.

    Why I love them:

    • The brush tip is perfect for larger format hand lettering and calligraphy.
    • You can blend colours to build depth.
    • They’re great for layering over collage or mixed media backgrounds.

    2. Micron Pens

    Micron pens are known for their precision and archival quality. The .08 size is my go-to because it strikes the perfect balance between boldness and control. These pens don’t bleed or smudge, making them ideal for mixed media work.

    Why I love them:

    • They create clean, consistent lines for outlines, doodles and text.
    • The ink is waterproof, so you can layer watercolour or highlighters over it.
    • I can get lots of depth and texture by using different nibs.

    3. UHU Glue Sticks

    Not all glue sticks are created equal! UHU glue sticks are smooth, strong, and dry clear. They’re essential for collage work, especially when working with delicate vintage papers.

    Why I love them:

    • They don’t wrinkle or warp paper.
    • They’re mess-free and easy to control.
    • They’re archival quality.

    4. Gelli Plates for Printmaking

    Gel plates are a game-changer for printmaking. These soft, reusable plates let you create monoprints without a press. Every print is one-of-a-kind, and the process is incredibly intuitive and playful.

    Why I love them:

    • You can use them with acrylic paint, stencils, stamps, and found objects.
    • They’re perfect for creating backgrounds, textures, and collage fodder.
    • The process is full of happy accidents.

    5. Vintage Books

    Old books are treasure troves of inspiration. The aged paper, unique fonts, and illustrations add instant charm to any piece.

    Why I love them:

    • They add a sense of nostalgia and narrative to your work.
    • They’re perfect for altered books, collage, and mixed media.

    6. Tea-Dyed Papers

    There’s something delightful about tea-dyed paper. Each stained, speckled, and uniquely aged sheet is a little work of art. I love using stained art and lined papers as backgrounds, collage elements, or even as journal pages. The process of dyeing them is a bit time-consuming (set aside at least an hour to create a batch), but the results are always a delightful surprise.

    Why I love them:

    • They add instant vintage charm and warmth to any piece.
    • The natural staining creates organic patterns and textures.
    • They’re perfect for layering, writing, or stitching into handmade books.

    Ready to play?

    Whether you’re looking to try something new or deepen your practice, I’d love to welcome you to one of my workshops!

    👉 Click here to view upcoming workshops and sign up!

    Let’s get crafty!

    PS- Share your favourite crafting tools in the comments.

  • Get Organized for Fall: Intro to Bullet Journaling Workshop

    Get Organized for Fall: Intro to Bullet Journaling Workshop

    Summer’s still here—but fall is just around the corner. As the seasons begin to shift and routines start to pick up again, it’s the perfect time to reset, refocus, and get organized. And what better way to do that than with a little creativity and self-care?

    Join us for a cozy, hands-on Intro to Bullet Journaling workshop where you’ll learn how to turn a blank notebook into your new favourite tool for staying on track, expressing yourself, and making space for what matters most.

    Why Bullet Journaling?

    Bullet journaling is more than just a planner—it’s a powerful tool for:

    • Boosting productivity without the overwhelm
    • Reducing stress through mindfulness and reflection
    • Tracking habits and building routines that stick
    • Setting goals and actually following through
    • Tapping into creativity, even if you don’t consider yourself artistic

    It’s flexible, fun, and totally customizable—perfect for anyone looking to feel more grounded and intentional heading into a new season.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • The core principles of bullet journaling and how it works
    • How to set up your first journal with an index and key
    • Creative layout ideas for monthly spreads, habit trackers, and more

    Whether you’re brand new to journaling or just looking for a fresh start, this workshop is designed to be fun, relaxing, and totally beginner-friendly.

    What’s Included:

    • A beautiful dot journal and Micron pen to take home
    • Shared materials – markers, highlighters, washi tape & stencils
    • Guided exercises and layout inspiration
    • A cozy, welcoming space to get creative

    Who It’s For:

    • Anyone curious about bullet journaling
    • People looking to feel more organized and intentional
    • Creative minds looking for a new outlet

    You’ll leave with a journal you’ve started yourself—and loads of inspiration to keep going.

    Register!

  • A Dream Week of Art Journaling at Haliburton School of Art + Design

    A Dream Week of Art Journaling at Haliburton School of Art + Design

    Last week, I gave myself the gift of time: five full days immersed in creative exploration at the Haliburton School of Art + Design, learning the art of intuitive journaling with the incredible artist and educator Melanie Matthews. It truly felt like a dream holiday—eight hours a day of making, experimenting, and reconnecting with my creative self.

    Melanie’s approach to art journaling was both liberating and grounding. She encouraged us to let go of perfection, trust our instincts, and embrace the unexpected. Each day was rich with in-depth instruction, helping us better understand materials, techniques, and the fundamentals of composition.

    Throughout the week, I kept returning to the Art-Making Manifesto by @helenwellsart, which Melanie introduced to us early on. Its principles became a guiding light in my process and eventually found their way into my final journal pages.

    Learning New Perspectives

    One of the most powerful parts of the experience was witnessing how differently each student approached the same materials. Some pages were bold and expressive, others soft and meditative. It was a beautiful reminder that creativity is deeply personal—and that stepping outside our comfort zones is where growth happens.

    Being a student again, especially in such a supportive and experimental environment, was incredibly recharging. It reminded me how essential it is to keep learning—not just to teach or produce, but to wander, to play, and to stay curious.

    A Creative Recharge

    Spending a week making art felt like an act of radical self-care. In a world that often prioritizes productivity over presence, giving myself permission to slow down and create without an agenda was transformative. It reaffirmed why I believe so deeply in the power of workshops and creative retreats.

    If you’ve ever dreamed of spending your days surrounded by paint, paper, and possibility, I can’t recommend a week at HSAD enough. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning, there’s something truly magical about dedicating time to your creative voice.

    Ready for Your Own Creative Recharge?

    Are you looking to reignite your creativity? Join me at an upcoming workshop!

  • Creative Workshops in Toronto: Let’s Create Together

    Creative Workshops in Toronto: Let’s Create Together

    Hello and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.

    Let me introduce myself… I’m Nikki Luscombe, a Toronto-based adult educator and creative workshop facilitator. I specialize in helping adults reconnect with their creativity through hands-on, inspiring craft experiences like collage workshops, mixed media sessions, and journaling classes.

    How It All Started

    My journey began with a simple invitation from my Nan when I was a kid. She handed me a stack of old magazines, some paper and glue, and said, “Don’t be bored—create something.” That moment sparked a lifelong love for collage art and ignited a curiosity that’s taken me through pottery, calligraphy, monoprinting, mixed media, and journaling.

    I’ve come to believe that everyone has a creative spark. You don’t need to be an artist or have formal training. You just need a little space, a little encouragement, and the freedom to explore.

    Why Creativity Matters

    In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch with our creative side. That’s why I’m passionate about offering creative workshops for adults in Toronto—spaces where you can slow down, experiment, and rediscover the joy of making something with your hands.

    Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to reignite your spark, my workshops are designed to be welcoming, fun, and pressure-free. I bring my background in learning and development and adult education to every session, blending structure with spontaneity to help you feel supported and inspired.

    What You Can Expect from My Workshops

    My workshops are designed to be fun, accessible, and energizing. I like to keep things hands-on, relaxed, and open-ended—because that’s where the magic happens. My workshops are all about exploration, not perfection. I truly believe that everyone brings something valuable to the table, and I love creating space for people to share their ideas, experiences, and creativity in their own way.

    Some recent offerings include:

    • Junk Journaling
    • Bullet Journaling
    • Custom Stamp and Stencil Making

    I also offer mobile workshops and can bring the creative experience to your studio, workplace, or event space.

    Let’s Create Together!

    Whether you join me in a studio or invite me to your own space, I’m here to guide you, cheer you on, and help you rediscover the joy of making something with your hands.

    Thanks for stopping by. I can’t wait to create with you.

    → Explore Upcoming Workshops
    → Book a Private Workshop


    Nikki