Made to Create: A Creative Vision with Purpose

Good morning, creatives! 🎨What a joy it is to be alive and writing about art💓😄

I’m absolutely THRILLED you’ve found your way to The Sketchbook Chapters, the heart of our humble art blog—and a creative space born from Made to Create!

This morning, I invite you to explore with me the vision behind it all: what Made to Create stands for, why it matters, and most importantly—who it's all for....

But let's go back for just a minute. This creative business idea began as a quiet nudging in my heart six years ago—a spark God placed in me to create meaningful art, give back in ways that bring hope and healing, and embrace the healing art that continues to bring to my own life too.

Also, I don't believe I properly introduced myself…

I'm Ashley—a creative and native Oregonian who "pioneered" to South Dakota with her hubby, God, and derpy dog. 🐶Creating art has a special place in my heart, and has always given me a space to sit meditatively with God when life feels overwhelming. It's helped remind me over and over how much freedom there is in Christ, how worshipful creativity can be, and how deeply God loves me for me. I feel so humbled and excited to now share what's come of all the creative work and nudgings...

Made to Create is now a collaborative initiative of artists and writers dedicated to supporting the healing of our communities through God’s love and the transformative power of art. Whether it's the handmade pieces at local events or the products available in our online shop, every purchase fuels a bigger mission: 25% of all revenue is donated directly to nonprofits committed to real hope and healing. Organizations like World Challenge, Evermore Blooms, Journey of Hope, and The Alpha Center embody compassion, meeting individuals where they are in crisis situations and walking with them toward healing and hope. Every 3 months, Made to Create donates a quarter of our earnings to one of these organizations, rotating between them throughout the year to ensure continued impact across all three.

I believe no one should have to walk through darkness alone. And through art, generosity, and a shared belief in purpose-driven creativity, Made to Create stands in support of those doing the quiet, powerful work of restoration.

The products we make are also designed to speak directly to you—to remind you that you are loved, wanted, and seen. 💗 May each piece be a brushstroke of encouragement, a small masterpiece whispering that each person's presence matters in this grand canvas of life.   

In The Sketchbook Chapters blog, our contributing writers are so excited to connect with you as well and share about the arts, faith topics, and the nonprofits we support. Each nonprofit offers vital services—everything from pregnancy counseling and miscarriage support, to establishing care for orphans and widows in desperate situations overseas. Each organization is driven by the love of God to provide healing and relief for mothers, children, and families in crisis. 

Along the way, The Sketchbook Chapters will also bring you behind the scenes of our creative mission sharing the:

• visionary process of our art work and designs
• the inside scoop for our next craft shows
• new product announcements
• AND delivering fresh content about the real stuff: faith, healing, and all the ways creating art has a restorative impact in the struggle.

We are SO EXCITED that you are here! 💗 Thank you for supporting our community and the vision of Made to Create. If you want to help champion these nonprofits or would like some positive and creative gear, check out our Design Shop.

Or, if you'd like to get in touch, please fill out the Contact Request Form and we'd be happy to connect and answer any questions you may have.

Until the next brushstroke,

Ashley @ Made to Create