Testimonials

February 12, 2022 Christine USA
CJS is for anyone. Experienced or first time creators will be able to find new tips and techniques to get their creative juices flowing and learn many approaches to creating without needing to commit to one type of art. Good opportunity to expand your idea of what being an artist is all about…it’s all about playing 😊
February 7, 2022 Pamela Chile
Creative Jumpstart is like a carrousel, everyday you have a new excited adventure with a kind partner who takes you to a new unexpected and colorful ride.
February 6, 2022 Beverly USA
CJS is fun and an adventure! I have participated for maybe 5 years and I am always learning new things. A bonus is I am introduced to new artists that I continue to learn from after CJS is over. Some of my favorite artists I meet through CJS.
February 6, 2022 Emily United Kingdom
CJS is a great way to either restart your creative engine, be inspired with new ideas or learn some new techniques. There are a wide variety of teachers and art styles, so there is something for everyone, and invariably there will be a few people whose names or work is new to you. It’s also a safe space to share your results within a supportive community. It doesn’t matter what ‘level’ of artist you consider yourself to be, there will be something you can take away from it. It is fantastic value for money given the number of teachers and the calibre, let alone the fact that you can download the videos to keep indefinitely as well as have access to the forum for some months even after the event itself.
February 6, 2022 Kathrin Germany
Creative Jumpstart is like an infusion of art energy at the start of the new year. It opens new paths to follow and connects ideas and previous experiences. A bit like taking art vitamins.
February 6, 2022 Kelli USA
Want to learn new techniques? Check.
Discovery projects you never would have considered? Check.
Learn to use the supplies you have? Check.
Watch artists at work? Check.
Experience tutorials as art snacks, i.e. quick bites? Check.
Be part of a community of artists who are learning and making? Check.
All at an incredibly affordable price? Double check.
As a 3rd year jumper, I LOVE CJS for all these reasons and more.
February 5, 2022 Deborah USA


Creative Jumpstart is not only a great inspiration to kick off the year, but the diversity of artists, techniques and styles expand my thinking and provide easy steps to Jump right in. I also appreciate the knowledge and encouragement from the instructors who are supportive, generous and kind…thank you for sharing your talents, experiences and wisdom!

December 21, 2021 Kristina USA
I am enjoying the Vol. 2 [CJS] videos and watching them has awakened some creativity.
February 16, 2021 Julie USA
I have been inspired by CJS to be more spontaneous with creating. I typically plan for elaborate projects and art days or retreats. It’s been fun to play around on this or that in short doses with limited supplies so I don’t get overwhelmed or try to achieve “perfection”. It’s allowed my to creatively play for the sake of it! It’s great therapy!
January 31, 2021 Jennifer USA
Creative Jumpstart actually inspires me every year by helping me to try things I never would have considered, learning new techniques, and keeping me focused on being creative even if it is just short spurts in my very busy days. Everyone is very encouraging and I think it is a marvelous way to begin each new year !
January 24, 2021 Sandra United Kingdom
CJS is inspiring me to have some me time each day and to try new things. Some days it’s just time to sit and watch the video, other days I have attempted the projects afterwards, Either way is fine because I’m taking time out, which is great. Thank you so very much to all involved.
January 24, 2021 Nachell USA
CJS 21 has inspired me to create art everyday using new techniques and mediums that I have not used very often. Getting me into the daily practice of art has had incredible benefits of motivation, excitement and falling in love again with what I create.
January 3, 2021 Robyn USA
I have participated in Creative Jumpstart for the last 5 years. It has proven to be the perfect way to start my creative year. I am introduced to new artists and new techniques. Along the way, I get a creative lift form having a lesson to watch each day. It really helps me establish my daily art practice. Creative Jumpstart is now a consistent part of my new year.
January 3, 2021 Dawn USA
I’ve done CJS for several years now. Hooked from the start. Great way to see/learn different techniques, and a fresh way of “seeing” things thru someone else’s eyes. Also introduces me to new materials, & ways of using things I already have. A lot of my artist friends always comment on the way I’ve incorporated these techniques in my artwork, and has made me a better artist.
January 3, 2021 Jill USA
This is my fourth year doing CJS. I’ve come to look forward to the mix of artists that you engage, some of who I would not have found without you. I always learn something, even from techniques that I may already be familiar with, because they help me to look at them again through another perspective. And the short 10 minute format is great, definitely doable each morning. It’s a great way to start the year and my day! Congrats on 10 years – I’m looking forward to the next 10.
January 3, 2021 Kim Japan
I’ve done Creative Jumpstart for 3 years now. It is so fun! The videos are short and are easy to watch and take notes on daily, the techniques are really helpful to see and try when I have some time during the week, and the inspiration keeps me thinking, even if I don’t have a particular material or if I don’t do the project anywhere near how it is presented. I believe that attempting most, if not all, projects in some form does, indeed, give me a much needed creative jumpstart! Thanks Nat and all teachers for all the thought you put into these classes! <3 <3 <3
June 5, 2020 Linda USA
I’d been looking forward to your Miro workshop and now, on this rainy day, it’s done!  I loved this class! I’m happy with my results too. You’re a wonderful teacher with clever ideas that also include a knowledge base. We leave feeling very “full."
March 2, 2020 Christine USA
Oh, Nat! What a wonderful lesson and such a gorgeous journal spread! A fitting conclusion to such an exciting class! Thank you so much. I have learned so many things, but, most important of all, I feel so much freer to just do whatever comes into my mind. I no longer worry (as much) that I can't draw. I have so many other resources now to create beautiful art and that makes me so happy!
February 5, 2020 Susan Canada
I’ve broken out my gelli plates, which were sitting lonely in their box. I’ve also tried the mica tape with pearl ex powders, and cannot wait to incorporate that into one of the mini books! I’ve enjoyed each tutorial, and look forward to trying more of the ideas into my artwork. Thank you for Creative Jumpstart!
February 5, 2020 Jo USA
My first year. I look forward every day to the lesson, the surprise of it. I like that all is provided on video, short enough for me to know if i want to try a technique and long enough to understand the techniques that appeal to me.
February 5, 2020 Vicky Belgium
This was my first time, but o boy did I enjoy it, I would highly recommend this course and will definitely join again next year.
I love the short 10 minutes video that are packed with inspiration.
February 4, 2020 Carol USA
This is my second year with CJS. I love everything about it because I always learn new techniques that I’d never have thought of on my own. The artists are all so inspiring and help to get my creative juices flowing. Thanks so much for CJS!
February 3, 2020 Joan South Africa
Every time I’ve watched CJS or followed your inspirational teachers I’ve grown a little, I’ve become more creative and certainly learnt so very many techniques. Techniques that have taught me to be a better creator in my own space. Thanks heaps for the opportunity to once again join CJS and flourish when it comes to creating.
February 3, 2020 Sue USA
Looking forward to next year’s cjs2021. I’ve met a few really great people while taking this years CJS’s, that I think will end up being online pen pals, so to speak. Anyway, thank you for everything and I wish you a very happy and prosperous 2020
February 2, 2020 Pat USA
I have discovered motivation and something to pique my interest in every Creative JumpStart artist’s Super Power. I am a mixed media fiber artist, and am particularly drawn to the processes and techniques that I can adapt in my work.
February 1, 2020 Lynn USA
What you have created is better than being in a LIVE classroom! Can’t believe I’m saying that, but for the price you are providing such a vast amount of inspiration, resources, networking and a wide variety of inspiring artists and artwork. This is such a gift!
February 1, 2020 Christine USA
This is my second year participating in Creative Jumpstart and my favorite part is that techniques are short, varied and available to binge watch!
January 31, 2020 Sharyn Australia
Yet another wonderful CJS thank you Nathalie and all of the artists involved... I particularly loved that the videos where only 10 minutes long which I enjoyed with my morning coffee each day!
January 16, 2020 Jennifer USA
I discovered Creative Jumpstart in 2018 and immediately fell in love with the whole program !
It really fits my busy schedule and one of the best parts is that you can do the lessons at your own pace. The teachers are fun and knowledgeable, the ideas interesting and diverse and of course your can save your fav lessons! Where in the world can you get such a smorgasbord of art lessons for such a reasonable price ????? I think CJS is inspiring !!!!!!
January 1, 2020 Nancy USA
YAY! I just had so much fun watching the first day of Creative JumpStart videos... I got so excited that the first day filled what I hoped to get from the series! I stopped midway, and wrote a friend that was considering joining... I haven’t even finished watching Nathalie’s first video, but am excited. I just learned a neat quick technique, filled with layers of applications, plus introduction to new products and approaches.
January 30, 2018 Brenda USA
This jumpstart has made me see common things in new ways. I feel inspired and filled with creative energy. As I look through magazines or store windows or in nature, ideas come to me. Thank you to all the artists!
January 28, 2018 Janice USA
Creative Jumpstart has been a boost for the past year and I expect it will work the same way this year! I signed up last year and downloaded the videos and used them all year when I got into a rut or felt uninspired to try something; this year I've already managed to finish four journal spreads, all my birthday cards for the year and a couple other greeting cards. I haven't even managed to keep up with the videos, but I'm downloading them as I get here so I can, again, watch them throughout the year as I get into a rut or hit a blank wall. Love this jumpstart for helping me build the habit of creating something every day!
January 27, 2018 Sandi USA
Thank you for Creative Jumpstart! I LOVE how the videos are short in length and manageable projects. Thank you to all of the artists for providing inspiring words and projects where I can feel success. I enjoy that they are all day after day in January and then I can notate specific videos throughout the year to enhance my own art creations. What a wonderful way to start 2018!!
January 26, 2018 Joi USA
Creative JumpStart is a yearly tradition for me. I love seeing art from other perspectives and personalities. It's also always interesting to see how the "theme" comes together in the minds of the contributors and then the students. This workshop always helps me feel less secluded from the art community as I watch how other artists work. This workshop is a gift to me and I am always grateful for it's inspiration. Thank you Nat. Xj.
January 25, 2018 Carolyn USA
This is my third year of CJS! I am inspired on so many levels–the themes, the new (to me) techniques I see demonstrated, and the jumping-off point for my own art journaling and creations. I love to see how each artist will demonstrate the theme, and also appreciate their generosity in responding to comments. And this year–recipes! Everyone’s enthusiasm and energy reminds me to just sit down and get started. I wouldn’t miss CJS! Thanks, Nathalie! You’re awesome.
January 25, 2018 Arlene USA
I think we all get stuck. Stuck in a style. Stuck in what media we use. Stuck in what I refer to as a funk. CJS has help me get over my funk. I'm trying to spend a least every evening doing something creative. All the videos have given me some new ideas, techniques and options to consider each time I sit down with a plain piece of paper, a plain canvas, or a new art journal. Thank you.
January 22, 2018 Joan USA
I love the idea of new beginnings in January of a new year. This is a great adventure with many new artists who's work I haven't seen before, sharing their ideas for creating work I can "mine" for ideas. Thanks, Nat for organizing all of this!
January 4, 2018 Jacqvz The Netherlands
This is my 4th Creative Jumpstart, and it always inspires me on some unexpected artful adventures. Especially trying things I am not drawn to immediately, inviting me to play in new/different ways. So much fun!
January 1, 2018 Carol USA
CJS is always an adventure … just what I need to motivate me to create – this group of artists are some of my favorite and they always inspire … thanks, Natalie, for continuing this tradition!
July 27, 2017 Mary USA
Nathalie is the real deal, the online personality you have seen is the same endearing instructor in person. Her classes are fun, informative and inspiring. Nathalie's diverse product lines are so useful when creating mixed media works from the background to the focal point. I used the city scape stamp to create a "Night on the Town" birthday card that wowed the recipient. I can hardly wait until January for Creative Jump Start this will be my third consecutive year to participate. Yes it's true I am a fan.
July 18, 2017 Sherry USA
Earlier this year I had the opportunity to take one of Nathalie's in-person classes and WOW is the best word to describe it.  She really pours so much of herself into her classes and is such a sweetheart to learn from.  I recently received her new Book Artful Adventures and I have been devouring the pages.  This is not like another art book on the market, it combines her story and her real life experiences with techniques and knowledge, this book is definitely a must have!  Thank you Nathalie for all your daily inspiration on your blog I love it!!
July 8, 2017 Maura USA

Nathalie Kalbach is such an inspiration for me in the mixed media world. I’ve had the privilege of taking classes with her, both online and in person, and I always come away filled with new ideas and techniques to build into my personal work. Nat’s a great teacher: she’s fun, supportive, innovative and keeps things rolling. I admire how she has turned her artwork into products like great stamps and stencils, and her new book has me looking at my neighborhood with a new point of view. Thanks so much Nat for expanding my creative world!
February 11, 2017 Elissa Canada
Nathalie, I can’t thank you enough for all the work that goes into creating CJS. I’ve learned so much, and had so much fun, and the timing couldn’t be better – January in Canada is a time when everything hibernates, including creativity, and this is a perfect way to wake up and shake up and get creating again.
February 4, 2017 Janine USA
I loved this whole experience. I went from thinking I should give it all up to feeling excited again – I’ve already finished one project and can’t wait to start some more. This was definitely a good start to the year. Many thanks to everyone!
February 3, 2017 Joan New Zealand
Dearest Nathalie, Thanks heaps for all your hard work and dedication to us Jumpers each year.... I couldn't live without my CJS in January!! As you introduce New artists each year and we get to grow with what themes you come up with, it's awe inspiring! There are heaps of tips and tricks and techniques that we learn and grow in ourselves and become more confident in our own art work. Thank you just isn't enough to explain the true love I feel towards your dedication to us! Creativity is flowing freely thanks to you and your amazing artist!
January 31, 2017 Judy Australia
My first CJS but hopefully not the last. Fabulously inspiring start to 2017. I will keep going back to the videos through the year to be inspired all over again.
January 31, 2017 Carolyn USA
Thank you so much for CJS 2017. You are really a joy, Nathalie, and the classes and all of the teachers were wonderful. I already can't wait for next year. Thank you so much for all of the time, effort, and creativity that goes into creating such a great series.
January 31, 2017 Jill USA
This is my first year doing CJS and I'm so glad that I found it. Thank you Nathalie for brightening my days during this normally dreary month. I had so much fun and learned so much. I hope you do it again next year. If you do, I'll be there.
January 31, 2017 Michele Ontario, Canada
Nathalie, you're wonderful. Thank you so much for another year of CJS. January is usually such a dull month after the holiday season but CJS gives me something to look forward to every day and gets me motivated to try new ideas. Thanks to all the wonderful teachers and to you for coordinating everything. Have a wonderful, creative and artistic year. All the best.
January 31, 2017 Gloria J USA
Thanks so much for hosting CJS again this year! It really gets me trying new things and I also really enjoy seeing what other jumpers do on the show and tell page. There are so many amazing artists out there! And so many creative ideas on how to do each of the "assignments"!
January 7, 2017 Wendy Ontario, Canada
Nathalie … Thank you so much for CJS 2017! It’s been a great ride. I’ve been inspired by all of the artists. And I’ve learned lots to work with throughout the year. This is such a great way to start off the year. You’ve done an awesome job in pulling this together and exposing us to artists who obviously love to share their ideas and talent. Many thanks to each and every one of them. I’m looking forward to what’s next …??
February 18, 2015 Gunvor Sweden
Thank you for having us! I realize that it must be an enormous job behind this and I’m soo thankful that you find it in your heart to do this again and again. This is my 3rd jumpstart and I think it’s the best of the three I’ve attended. I loved every single video/demo and have tried many of them. And I will try the rest as soon as I have completed my stash with the things I need, a little by a little. And I’m already looking forward to CJS 2016 ?
January 31, 2015 Janet USA
My gratitude for your work and creativity for organizing CJS! I have been participating for so many years now and have enjoyed every year! Each year gives me so much excitement and joy beyond words! I love to play and experiment with different mediums and the videos have fueled so much creativity. Thank you, Janet
January 28, 2015 Maura USA
Nathalie, thank you for all of your hard work in pulling this great class together!! Jumpstarters, thanks for all the inspiring ideas you shared with us. It has been a wonderful creative journey this January, and I hope I will see many more. I have to say, I had not worked much with acrylic paints before, and my eyes are opened to new possibilities, as well as trying out some new mediums. Again, a big THANKS!!
January 20, 2015 Joi USA
I could never thank you enough. Your CJS has really touched my life. I watch all of you wonderful teachers out there and imagine myself being as creative and “able”. This helped me take one day at a time, one assignment at a time and try them.( …) I LOVE what I am doing… (…) I am so sad it’s over but will continue to watch for more wonderful things to come from you. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU Nathalie for everything. I am so very very grateful… truly. Have a SUPER CREATIVE rest of the year. Blessings to you and yours. joi
November 8, 2014 Karen USA
I strongly recommend that you explore Nathalie Kalbach’s Creative Jump Start series – it’s a very wonderful way to begin the new year! Nathalie’s leadership to produce a month of fantastic artist technique videos each year is evidence of excellent programming. There is thorough background information and technique for every level of expertise, great advice for newcomers getting started, and motivation to continue long after the series is over. Every artist in the CJS series finds a way to cleverly add their creative expertise directly to my workspace with fun and ideas to improve our shared world. If you’re thinking of joining the next series you won’t be disappointed!
October 29, 2014 Genya Toronto, Canada
I have taken several of Nathalie’s classes in Toronto. Her knowledge of mixed media techniques is second to none. She passes on great information to students on the ins and outs of different mediums, paints, powders, inks, pastels as well as other art products.  She explains the technical elements of why certain products can be mixed together and what you need to know to get paints, inks and pastels etc to work together. Regardless if you believe you have zero creative talent or are an experienced artist Nathalie offers plenty of advice and tips to make a perfect creation in her class. No two projects end up the same in any of her classes or workshops!

Nathalie is a big believer in getting the best value for money out of any art material. She can find countless ways to use just about anything, including eggshells! There is no product required for her class that you don’t take home and wonder what else it can do. She is a seminal teacher in that she fosters your personal creative spirit. There are many techniques that I have learned from her and then applied to projects and have fellow scrapbookers and mixed media users ask ‘How did I do that?!’ because they can see how they would apply it to their own works.

It is easy to take a class where everyone goes home with the identical project but not with Nathalie’s; your project is guaranteed to be original. But I have come to experience that the true gift of Nathalie’s classes is that the learning continues after the workshop. You feel your creativity revived and ready to experiment some more and test the limits of your own ability. I would whole heartily recommend taking a class from her whenever possible. Her teaching style makes it easy to pick up new techniques like a master and before you know it you have created more then you thought was ever possible. Simply put, you can’t go wrong with learning from Nathalie – sie ist fantastisch!
October 16, 2014 Laura Lothian-Bryant North York, Canada
If you are thinking of taking a class with Nathalie then you might want to consider acting on that thought as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss your chance as her classes – whether in person or online are in demand! When you add lots of talent, variety of products, tons of techniques, creativity, quirky sense of humor and some rather unique language translations, you have a combination of a “one-of-a-kind”, fun and fabulous class! If you are new to the world of Mixed Media or are very familiar with it, she will ensure you feel welcomed, are comfortable with the project at hand, will have new techniques to expand your learning, and often she will have the latest product on hand for you to experiment and try new things with. Simply put, Nathalie’s classes are a MUST! Love them, Love her!
September 29, 2014 Andrene Coury North Carolina, USA
Because of Nathalie and her N*Studio online workshops, my dream of art journaling and mixed media art became a reality. Her workshops taught me about tools, mediums and techniques that enabled me to start creating my own art journal pages. And because each workshop topic is unique, I was always learning something new and creative. Whether you are a beginner or experienced in art journaling, I highly recommend taking Nathalie’s workshops!
September 29, 2014 Maura Hibbitts New York, USA
I had the pleasure to take a mixed media class with Nathalie, and I had so much fun! She breaks the class up into demo, we play and try what she taught us, then we critique what we did, and back again. I never felt like too much was given to me to try that I couldn’t do. Nathalie is very friendly and willing to answer any questions or help in any way. Very relaxed, but I learned how to use new materials and try out a number of new techniques. It was pretty amazing how many different things we tried in just a few hours, and it inspired me to do more at home.
September 29, 2014 Lily van der Velde The Netherlands
I did both online classes and two workshops in person with Nathalie. And all were absolutely fabulous. Nathalie really knows her products! She loves to experiment and will share loads of information and creative techniques with you. Everything is  demonstrated  in a structured way so you don’t get lost. Besides that, she leaves you enough space to experiment and encourages you to do so! She loves to see you go your own way. Unleash your creativity! There is a great mix of structured information on one hand and loads of creativity on the other. And on top of that, there is her great sense of humor and her contagious laughter. I personally was a little sad when she left for the States only a few months after I discovered her. Luckily for us in Europe, she still has her online workshops. A workshop with Nathalie is worth every penny and more! Did I mention she is a great artist and her wonderful personality? She is definitely one of my favorites!
September 23, 2014 Carmen Sanchez Madrid, Spain
First time I watched a video tutorial by Nathalie Kalbach, I thought -hey, this girl knows how to have fun with paints- I was looking for new techniques to try and her website was filled with them.  It happened that she was going to teach some workshops in Barcelona in a couple of months. I didn’t think too much. I signed up, grabbed my brushes and took the train. She didn’t disappointed me at all. I love the way she teaches. Her knowledge of materials, mediums and techniques. She is organized, clear, willing to help and answer all kind of questions with a big smile. And she is funny. Very.  I -after those workshops- did not take my eye out of her artwork. I’ve taken several online/personal workshops with her and I have always learnt something new and had a great time there.  If you’re undecided and not sure on buying one of her workshops, do not think anymore. She is your girl!
September 22, 2014 Gigi Desine Calgary, Canada
I wanted to thank you Nathalie for the wonderful course you taught at Prima ArtVenture in January 2014. I had been following your website, for awhile prior, and had been inspired ‘continually’ with your projects. Whenever I watch your videos I feel like I’m watching a magician practicing. Your projects are inventive and, often, go in an unanticipated direction which makes your classes a big hit with me. I think of you as a pioneer in backgrounds. Any chance I get I’m drawn to your online workshops, I believe they are addictive! Creative Jumpstart 2014 is an awesome project, very informative and professionally executed…In my book you are one of the top 10 mixed media educators out there! Keep up the amazing work and see you in class!
September 20, 2014 Joan von Metzinger New Zealand
I discovered CJS in 2013 and have been following Nathalie’s blog ever since. I have learnt and grown so much in my art… I have been introduced to new and wonderful artist in her field which has I in turn have been able to link up with but only through Nathalie’s guidance. Nathalie’s inspiration has shown me that being an amateur artist is just the first step in the right direction to were I want to be… Thank you!
September 20, 2014 Nancy Keslin California, USA
I have taken classes from Nathalie Kalbach both in person and online.  Her classes are always well organized, full of great techniques, and lots of fun.  Nathalie is a great instructor having both the patience and the knowledge to make even the most difficult to learn techniques easy for her students.
September 19, 2014 Cathy Beaty Texas, USA
I had the privilege of taking a class with Nathalie at CHA this past year.  She was teaching a great technique class for retailers to take home and re teach in their stores.  I fell in love with the Creative Palette from Stampendous because of Nathalie! Nathalie is an Excellent instructor.  She keeps the class moving while teaching you WonDerFul techniques as you are having fun and getting messy. Never hesitate to take her class or have her teach in your store!
September 18, 2014 Martha Richardson North Carolina, USA
Nathalie Kalbach is the artist that introduced me to the world of MIXED MEDIA. I was so intrigued that I immediately signed up for her workshops that eventually become her Uber Media online classes. With her class projects and the personal level of her involvement I soon realized that this was where I wanted my art to go. I loved being able to learn about techniques and also different art mediums. I took Nathalie’s Uber Media classes covering Acrylic Paint, Gesso and Pan Pastel and felt comfortable and competent because of her instruction. I enjoyed her classes so much I actually traveled from NC to NYC  to be able to take a class with Nathalie in person. I highly recommend her online courses, you will not be disappointed!
September 15, 2014 Peg Hewitt New South Wales, Australia
I attended Nathalie’s classes in Taree, NSW, Australia and enjoyed them very much. Nathalie has a wealth of knowledge in mixed media art and is an entertaining and thorough teacher. She imparts a huge amount of information during classes and yet is extremely comfortable learning from students as well. She is warm and supportive and above all her classes were enormous fun.
September 15, 2014 Nurse Ratchet Toronto, Canada
I met Nathalie Kalbach several years ago when Bizzy B Stamp and Scrap in Toronto facilitated several workshops taught by Nat. Since that first fabulous weekend spent with Nat I have attended all available classes whenever Nat comes to Bizzy B.
Nathalie is not only a fabulous artist and inspirational instructor but is also so much fun to spend time with while covered in paint and ink and gesso! Nat is down to earth and easily motivates her students with clearly taught amazing techniques based on hours of exploration of her art. Nat’s workshops are packed full of new skills to learn and products to discover with time to complete each project, well, except for that one time jet lag made Nat think we were to finished an hour earlier than scheduled. We, Canadians though, are proud to this day that we really boogied and finished that project. If you ever get the opportunity to take a class with Nat, run, do not walk and sign up for every class you can….you will have a blast and go home with fabulous new ideas and techniques to take home to your own art.
September 10, 2014 Gunvor Andersson Storck Sweden
Nat’s courses are filled with creativity, techniques, inspiration, laughter and colourful mess. She´s really good at explaining (even to people who don’t have English as native tongue) and pacing the pupils so everyone get their pieces finished within the time limit.
September 10, 2014 Sharri Carlin New Jersey, USA
I took a Texture Canvas class with Nat this summer at the CREATE Mixed Media Retreat in Somerset, NJ. My goal of the workshop was to learn new techniques that I could modify for my elementary art students. I came away with fantastic ideas and will soon be able to turn-key everything I learned into a workshop for my fellow colleagues. Nat has a great sense of humor and is a joy to have as an instructor. I feel like I have learned so much from her in the 3 hours I spent in her class. Her artwork and teaching are simply amazing!
September 2, 2014 Kelly Ann Belton Toronto, Canada
So … taking a class from Nathalie is like going to school with your best friend.   The classes are packed with information – and laughter. Nathalie puts you immediately at ease, no matter if you are an absolute novice or you have tons of experience in the media that she is teaching.   She knows her stuff and she knows how to teach it.   I highly recommend the experience! And for the record –the only time in my life I have ever finished a project in a class was in Nathalie’s class – and I’ve done it more than once!
February 11, 2014 Valduluc France
Thank you so much Nathalie and other artists too for this Creative Jumpstart. I enjoyed it and loved discovering new videos and inspiring techniques every day. I managed to enter six giveaways with six different projects. It was an exciting January. So, hope to see you next year and I’m sure these videos will continue to inspire me to create other projects during 2014. Hugs from France, Valdulac
January 29, 2014 Joe-Ellen USA
I absolutely LOVED CJS! A friend discovered and participated in CJS 2013. She loved it so much (and I loved being a recipient of her cards inspired by CJS!), she bought CJS 2014 as a Christmas gift for herself and the rest of us (3) who gather a few times a year for girl’s “create” weekends. The 4 of us have been watching and discussing all month. So sad it’s over. It’s like finishing a really, really good book and having the “blues” after reading the last page. Thank you, thank you, thank you to ALL who made this happen!
December 10, 2013 Marie-Anne Belgium
I enjoy this every year and i’m happy to be included this year.
September 29, 2013 Tineke The Netherlands
Just finished the Acrylic Paint classes (long version) and I LOVED it! For me it was an exciting exploring adventure cause I’m new to all this art fun stuff. I just LOVE the way Nathalie teaches. So relaxed, funny and talented. I will miss her ‘pretty cool’ talk and my weekly adventure but hey there’s more!!!! My new next adventure will be the Pan Pastels workshop and after that I want to know all about Gesso. Yep, I’m hooked:-) Thank you so much Nathalie, you’re in my heart. Thank you for everything. You’re such a BEAUTIFUL person. Loads of love from Tineke/TeedeJee
September 29, 2013 Charlene Ocasek
Well I just finished Nat’s class Uber Media Gesso and it was the best thing I could have done. I was introduced to gesso in Julie Balzers class 30 Days in you Journal and I was crazy for gesso. Nat is such a good instructor, she explains everything so well. She never hesitates to tell you what products work with gesso so you get the best results. The one thing about Nat, besides her great sense of humor is that she is very hands on with her students. I will definitely take other classes with Nat and I highly recommend this course. Thanks Nat!!!!
October 22, 2012 Birgit Kunte Germany
Jede Scrapperin, die sich auch für Mixed Media interessiert, hat wahrscheinlich PanPastels oder Art Bars zu Hause liegen. Wir streicheln sie und haben sie vielleicht schon auf die eine oder andere Art benutzt. Bei Nats Workshops “Portrait of a Lady” und “Tag you are it” lernt man die vielseitigen Verwendungsmöglichkeiten beider Medien kennen. Sie vermittelt einem auf ihre ganz eigene, super lustige und immer geduldige Art, nicht nur die unterschiedlichen Techniken sondern gibt auch noch das nötige Hintergrundwissen weiter. Dabei unterstützt sie die Teilnehmer in jeder nur erdenklichen Weise. Es macht Spaß in ihren Kursen an mit den unterschiedlichsten Untergründen und Materialien zu arbeiten. In dem “Chalk on the wild side”-Kurs habe ich zusätzlich auch noch ein für mich neues Medium “Liquid Chalks” kennen- und lieben gelernt. Nathalie ist eine fantastische Künstlerin, die immer down-to-earth und mit Witz ihr Wissen und ihre Begeisterung an die Teilnehmer ihrer Workshops weitergibt. Wer einmal an einem ihrer Workshops teilgenommen hat, wird es immer wieder tun. Ich freue mich schon aufs nächste Mal, vielen Dank, du bist die Beste.
October 15, 2012 Charlotte Anderson UK
Nat’s workshop was the first ever workshop that I’ve attended, on top of which it was in German, which isn’t my first language and I’d only been in Munich for three weeks at the time! But none of that mattered! Nat was so helpful and her explanations and demonstrations were so clear and thorough, I understood everything. More than that, Nat’s brilliant, smiley, friendly personality shone through and made it even more of a fun experience. I didn’t know what to expect from a workshop, but I really enjoyed having the chance to just try out and play around with new materials, under Nat’s guidance so we got the most out of them – and it worked; I’m now hooked and I’m already using the things I learned in some of the other stuff I do. You always feel like the emphasis is on the individual in Nat’s workshops; yes, we are taught a specific technique, or told to try something a certain way, but we were encouraged to take it and run with it in a personal way. That was cool. It meant I used materials and techniques I wasn’t familiar with, but in the end I produced something that was still very much ‘mine’. If Nat is ever running a workshop near you, you HAVE TO go!! It was easily one of the best things I’ve done for a long time.
September 29, 2012 Penny Bennington USA
Thank you SO MUCH for all your hard work in putting together this workshop(Acrylic Paint Full Version) ! I filled an entire Strathmore visual journal with all the various background techniques that is going to be a great reference.  I love your spirit of experimentation :) Keep it up!!
September 29, 2012 Aiga Volkhausen Germany
Einen ganz lieben Dank an Nathalie!

Seit ich deinen Online-Kurs Über Gesso besucht habe, traue ich mich so richtig zu mixen und matschen. Dank der Materialkunde weiß ich nun auch was geht und was nicht. Gesso ist mittlerweile mein bester Freund, auch wenn es immer eine riesen Schweinerei ist. Aber es macht halt so viel Spaß. Man kann, so wie ich, ohne vorherigen Plan an ein Projekt rangehen und einfach aus dem Bauch raus die Materialien benutzen, die einem das Mojo so vorgibt. Oder ganz gezielt auch mal was nacharbeiten, man weiß ja jetzt wie es geht.

Danke Nathalie! Ohne deine Kurse hätte ich mich z.B. nie an einen Keilrahmen gewagt. In Kombination mit dem Kurs Über Pan Pastel bin ich nun so richtig gut vorbereitet für die Mixed-Media-Welt. Die Kurse sind, obwohl überwiegend auf Englisch, sehr gut verständlich, auch für solche wie mich, die nach der Schule nie wieder ein Wort auf Englisch gesprochen haben. Durch die Videos kann man problemlos folgen. Sehr gut finde ich auch, dass man die Materialliste in Printform bereitgestellt bekommt.

Ich wünsche mir auch weiterhin noch viele interessante Kurse mit dir und hoffe, dass ich auch mal in den Genuss kommen werde, einen “realen” Kurs besuchen zu können.
September 29, 2012 Carmen Sanchez Spain
Über*Media PanPastels workshop has been so much fun. Nathalie knows how to make things amusing. The workshop covers lots of different uses for PanPastels in the mixed media field. The videos and pdf files are very useful and descriptive. The sample projects are so creative. Also the timing is great. You have plenty of time to play and practice in between classes and Nathalie is always willing to help and answer your doubts. I’d totally recommend it.
July 29, 2012 D.B. Toronto, Canada
Each and everyone of the workshops at Bizzy B were outstanding. Nat is one of the best teachers I have ever taken a workshop with…and there have been many. Run, do not walk if you ever have the opportunity to participate in one of Nat’s workshops. Paints, gesso, sprays and sparkly goodness all weekend long!! I sincerely felt like I was at summer camp and met wonderful new friends! And came home with fabulous new techniques to enjoy! Thanks Nat,eh
December 29, 2011 Francoise Papillon Belgium
Nathalie gives a lot of technical content: in the end I knew which Tattered Angels paints is to be used for what and why and how! She gives the information in a structured way, which makes it easy to listen to. She uses the products and the project to underline your explanation. Nathalie demonstrates what needs to be demonstrated and leaves enough space for discovery. She gives liberty to interpretation: everyone can make his own thing or when feeling insecure, there’s still possibility to ‘copy’. She moves around during class: everyone gets his share of attention, encouragement,  comment or help if needed. Nathalie supplies more than enough material so that everyone can work at his pace without worrying about stash. She organizes the workspace: everyone knows where to find the necessary material. She entertains people during your class: there’s room for casual talk with her students. In short: I absolutely like the way she teaches!
December 29, 2011 Hedwig Schlötjes Belle The Netherlands
Nat is a very inspiring and experimental girl who shows you good, new tricks and all new kind of techniques. Because of her experimental nature, you can be YOU in her workshops. No need to make what she does, but it’s about being creative yourself. Much better, if you ask me, and i have experience as I was in her PanPastel class which I liked VERY much. Besides that, Nat is a kind person, quick in answering questions and encouraging you as a student.
December 28, 2011 Linda Brun Norway
I took my first online class with Nathalie summer 2010 through CraftEduCommunity. I had then already booked 3 classes with Nat for the PACS 2010 in November and I wanted to be prepared and check out what this paint and ink thing was. Well I fell in love at once, with the paint and the mist and the way Nathalie teaches. So when I arrived in Paris I was so happy to play and learn from a great artist. She is friendly, funny and very lovable. I have taken online classes with Nat after Paris and I was so happy when she came to Norway and my hometown spring 2011. I know she inspired many girls that attended her classes, including me.

I went back to school this year, studying graphic design. I would say that Nat is one of the people that inspires me to do this, with her work and personality.  I consider Nat as a friend and hope that one day soon we can play together with paint and other mediums.