Design Matters

On this episode of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are joined by paper crafter, designer, and educator Cathy Zielske for a thoughtful and honest conversation about creativity, design, and building a life around making. Cathy shares her journey from competitive roller skating to graphic design, and how those experiences shaped her approach to scrapbooking, storytelling, and teaching design principles. Together, they talk about why design matters across all crafts, from quilting to paper crafting, and how the shift from traditional scrapbooking to digital tools has changed the creative landscape. The conversation also dives into the realities of content creation, balancing personal challenges with professional deadlines, and what it really takes to turn a creative passion into a sustainable career. Cathy, Becca, and Ian discuss branding, authenticity, community support, and the importance of having multiple income streams in today’s crafting world. This episode is a mix of practical insight and creative encouragement, with plenty of reflection on why we create, how we grow, and where crafting might take us next.