Today I want to share two creative blogs I love. One I’ve followed for years, and the other I recently discovered and instantly admired.
Emily at Jones Design Company is a remarkably talented graphic designer whose work and writing are both inspiring and approachable. Her blog blends clear, useful design tutorials with a warm, personal voice that makes her projects feel achievable. Emily’s aesthetic—fresh, thoughtful, and often handcrafted—shines through in the projects she shares, from home décor to clever paper and fabric crafts.
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Her tutorials are practical and beautifully photographed. One series I keep returning to is “Flower Week,” where Emily posted daily tutorials for making flowers from paper and fabric. The instructions are clear, well-photographed, and perfect for anyone who enjoys hands-on decorating or wants to add a handcrafted touch to gifts and home accents.
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Recently Emily ran a thoughtful series focused on pleats—“Pleated Project Week”—that highlights how simple folds and techniques can transform basic materials into decorative accents. The first project in that series demonstrates how to make elegant paper medallions, perfect for party décor, gallery walls, or seasonal displays. The step-by-step photos make it easy to follow along and replicate the look at home.
The medallions and pleated accents are so pretty they make me want to add paper pleats throughout my home. If you enjoy learning design techniques that are both decorative and doable, Emily’s site is a wonderful resource.
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The second blog I discovered is The Pleated Poppy, where Lindsey shares sewing projects that combine clever construction with pretty pleated details. Her work surfaced while I was searching for inspiration for a recent messenger bag project, and I was impressed by her combination of technical skill and eye-catching patterns.
Lindsey’s sewing tutorials are thorough and accessible, with patterns and tips that help you achieve professional-looking results at home. One standout project is a chevron messenger bag she made, which showcases precise pleating and a modern, wearable design.
The bag is a great example of how pleats and pattern placement can elevate everyday accessories. Lindsey also runs a shop where she offers pleated goods and patterns, making it easy to try a finished product or pick up supplies and inspiration for your own projects.
Both blogs offer a mix of practical tutorials, clear photography, and creative ideas that are accessible to makers at different skill levels. Whether you’re exploring paper crafts, sewing detailed accessories, or learning design techniques, Emily’s Jones Design Company and Lindsey’s The Pleated Poppy are excellent sources of inspiration and instruction. I recommend visiting their project archives to discover step-by-step guides, seasonal ideas, and plenty of creative motivation.
You can explore Emily’s design tutorials and pleated projects at Jones Design Company, and find Lindsey’s sewing tutorials and shop at The Pleated Poppy and her shop.