| THE EPISTOLARIAN |

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on paracosms—intricate, imaginary worlds we create and inhabit in our minds. For me, they’ve taken many forms: the meditatory universes I’ve visited daily since high school, the richly detailed worlds of my novel characters (both written and waiting to be written), and even the lens through which I view reality itself. In many ways, our lives are paracosmic—we construct meaning, layering our personal realities onto the world around us.

In recent weeks, the world has felt heavy but each day, I find solace in my creative practice. Through it, I push against the confines of a world that demands more when what we truly need is less - less noise, less pressure, less expectation.

Creativity is resistance. It pushes back against a world that can feel harsh and unyielding. Leisure, too, is resistance. So are rest and care. In times when the world feels sharp and unforgiving, carving out space for joy, beauty, and connection becomes an act of defiance.

(Pictured above: Tea at Bantry House During the retreat in Ireland)

I dream of the paracosm of Kathryn Hastings, and I invite you to join me there. It’s a world where we arrive at each moment as artists:

• Every detail tells a story
• The romance of the 18th and 19th centuries without the suffering and bad hygiene
• Oil paintings that watch over each room
• Fresh flowers that make you feel beautiful
• Fresh air - opening the windows to breath in the outdoors
• Long voice notes and letters to and from friends
• Writing with a dip pen
• Time scheduled in your creative space just for yourself that can't be given to anyone else
• Mood boards, particularly for travel
• A well curated social media of ONLY people that bring you joy (getting a new account if needed)
• Candles, incense and oil lamps that match the mood in the evening
• Comfy clothing that makes you feel beautiful
• Finally using the stationery you've kept for 15-20 years, mixing and matching to create something special
• Watching wax melt slowly
• Creating small worlds in your art be it envelopes, letters, seals or paintings

Paracosms aren't about escape; they are about creative construction. They invite us to see the universe as a place brimming with possibility and wonder. Even in chaos, there is always room for beauty, connection, and hope. Let’s create that world together.

“ Had I not created my whole world, I would certainly have died in other people's. — Anaïs Nin

New on the 1 Sealed Letter Podcast

I’m thrilled to share that Lindsey Bugbee, the founder of The Postman’s Knock (TPK), joined me on the latest episode of 1 Sealed Letter Podcast! Lindsey has been a guiding light for thousands of creatives, teaching the art of calligraphy and watercolor with her signature warmth and expertise. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, her work inspires people to slow down and find beauty in the details—a philosophy that resonates deeply with letter writing.

In our conversation, Lindsey shares her journey from starting TPK in 2012 as a custom calligraphy business to building a thriving online creative community with over a million worksheet downloads and 200,000 students. We also dive into her process, her inspirations, and her new book, The Calligraphy Book, which is available for pre-order.

You can listen to the full episode here and explore Lindsey’s beautiful tutorials, courses, and blog at The Postman’s Knock.

A few of my favorites from TPK:

Seal of the Week: Mistletoe

I'm thrilled to share the newest Kathryn Hastings holiday seal with you, and I hope you’ll fall in love with it as much as I have. This year’s design features a delicate sprig of mistletoe tied with a charming bow. The seal is a smaller oval than many of my other designs, which highlights its intricate details beautifully.

Bright, clean, and perfectly festive, it’s an ideal addition to your holiday letters and gifts. I have a limited quantity available, so I recommend ordering soon if you’d like one. Each seal is personally signed by me, making it a true collector’s piece—crafted to be cherished for decades, even centuries to come.

Color of the Week: Leda

Inspired by the myth of Leda and the Swan—a story that has captivated me through art and my travels—I created Leda, a dark cream-colored sealing wax that reflects the grace and elegance of the swan. Its soft, muted tone feels timeless and versatile, perfect for adding a touch of understated sophistication to your holiday cards and letters.

Courses Highlight

I've been receiving lots of questions lately about painting wax seals and other artistic techniques. In case you don't know, I have an AMAZING master class on the art of wax seals. It covers all of my artistic techniques, including painting, wax weaving, marbling, sculptural seals and even chocolate wax seals. I continue to update this course as I develop more artistic techniques. You can sign up here. You will have full access to the course, which you can take at your own schedule.

With love,