Oh hey hello!
Thanks for stopping by to read my first post here on Substack!
As part of my 2025 goals for myself I would like to try and write one blog post a week for you all to read and learn and collaborate on!
WHO AM I?
My name is Kelsey Marshalsey and I am an illustrator and designer based in Ontario, Canada.
I started my career in design, graduating with a degree in Graphic Design in 2012 from Conestoga College.
From there I branched into Illustration and Hand-Lettering and Brown Paper Fox was born - starting as a little Etsy shop which has since grown into a full-blow Publishing company.
After my son was born I moved more into Picture Book illustration and I absolutely LOVE it. I really found where my passion lies and I love helping authors bring their stories to life.
A few fun facts about me:
I am a mum to two littles, Ewan and Isla
I have two cats - Simba and Yoshi (I just lost my other kitty Ollie and he was my first child and it really shook me)
I primarily work in Digital mediums but love taking paint and pencils to paper to change things up and add texture
I love reading - currently reading through the Outlander series
I love playing video games - currently playing the OG Paper Mario on N64 via Switch
I love to dance and do yoga - I used to be a ballerina in my youth
I love to start and try new hobbies - my favourites being textile arts like knitting and crochet
I was recently diagnosed with ADHD - and honestly… it makes a lot of sense
WHY A SUBSTACK?
When I first started my design career I started a blog and YouTube channel called “The DIY Diary” where I made a bunch of things from clothing and accessories to home decor to food - simple and easy DIYs that were often done on a budget and honestly I loved writing.
I then grew and shifted and I stopped posting and got more into professional illustration - but I have always enjoyed writing and I feel that I have a lot to share and this is the place to do it.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
This blog isn’t going to necessarily be one particular thing but everything that I love, like and know. I just want to share everything and anything it could be:
Tips for self-publishing
A look at a book I’ve been working on
Random sketches and art
Procreate tips and tricks
Random projects and hobbies
…and more!
I want the freedom to share everything and anything that makes me… me!
MY ILLUSTRATION STYLE:
Here is a little look at a few pieces I have worked on recently so you can get a feel for my style!








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