2019 was one of the most rewarding years in business for Lettering Works as it was filled with growth and change. A lot happened…

Not everyone who knows me knows that I’ve had spinal surgery. It’s a pretty hidden disability despite the large scars that run down my spine and around my right rib cage. While it has had a tremendous impact on my life, I try to keep the focus on my successes and positives. I don’t want my scoliosis to define me, but I think it is important to honor the challenges I’ve overcome that have gotten me to where I am today.

Pilsen is known for its Latino culture and vast spread of vibrant murals. It was even named one of the “12 Coolest Neighborhoods Around the World” by Forbes. It’s the perfect neighborhood in Chicago to spend an afternoon with plenty of art to see on both 16th and 18th street, and seemingly everywhere in between.

While in Las Vegas for the Brand New Conference, I spent time walking through the incredible sign collection at the Neon Museum. The most impressive aspects were the sheer size, scale, and detail work in each of the forgotten neon signs.

It’s no secret that networking is hard work. It is hard to put yourself out there, find the right events that lead to meaningful connections, and figure out how to convert connections into paying clients. A recent Sunnyside Chats Workshop led by Thyannda Mack provided some key takeaways to improve your networking strategy.

Lettering Works officially launches 100 Days of Chicago - a new passion project in the style of popular personal project 100 Days of Peoria. 100 unique hand-lettered illustrations by Chelsie Tamms will be shared on Instagram and Facebook from August 22nd-November 29th.

The Prairie Center of the Arts in Peoria’s Warehouse District opened the gallery’s doors the evening of Saturday, August 10th for the annual Alumni Show Opening Reception. The show features the work of 72 artists who have gone through the artist residency program at the Prairie Center, including Chelsie Tamms’ Chicago Style Postcards.

Photos from a week-long trip to Ireland including stops in Dublin, the Malahide Castle, Howth, Kilkenny, and the Wicklow Mountains.

Lettering Works spent the last official Saturday in Peoria surrounded by friends and supporters at local bar and pizza joint Broken Tree, celebrating local accomplishments and people who make Peoria a wonderful place to be. We even designed custom koozies for friends to remember us by!

Learn more about what goes into building a freelance design business as Chelsie answers the frequently asked question: “What does a typical day look like for you as a freelance designer?”