Lou Sims: Papercraft Artist, Designer, and Creative Guide

Hi, I’m Lou Sims (sometimes misspelled as Lou Simms), a UK-based papercraft artist, designer, and creative guide.I’m on a mission to help you find your creative calm, one project at a time. Crafting has been my passion for over 10 years. What started as a way to create a handmade Christmas has grown into a journey of self-discovery, and I’m passionate about sharing that with you.

My Blog

I started this blog as a way to share my projects (and store photos back in the pre-cloud days!). Over time, it’s become my creative home — a space to share inspiration, explore new ideas, and connect with you. I even wrote a post about why blogging still matters to me, which you can find here … here ...

My Creative Path

The craft world has changed a lot — especially from late 2024, when several big companies left the industry. My role shifted too, and I was lucky to step into a full-time position as Content & Product Development Advisor for Personal Impressions.

This change has meant less demoing and putting Shady Designs on pause, but it’s also opened doors to work with new companies, broaden my skills, and see craftland as a whole — not just the little corner I was once in.

Want to know more about where my creativity is headed now? Watch my short video below.

Highlights Along the Way

I’ve had the joy of working with and designing for brands such as Ciao Bella Paper, GelliArts, Dolly Dimples Crafts, Polkadoodles, Tonic Studios, and Spellbinders.

I now work closely with Personal Impressions and Sakura/Royal Talens, and I’ve shared my passion on TV channels including Hochanda, The Craft Store, Create & Craft, and HobbyMaker TV. often introduced as Lou Sims (and occasionally written as Lou Simms!)

In 2022, I took a leap and launched my own line of stamps, stencils, and dies: Shady Designs. It’s been a dream to see those products come to life — and even more exciting to see what you make with them. You can see all my releases HERE. A huge thank you to both Charmain & Robbie for giving me that opportunity.

What You Can Expect From Me

✨ More inspiration — not just my projects, but ideas to help you find your own creative voice.
✨ More tutorials — regular tips, tricks, and how-tos on my YouTube channel.
✨ More authenticity — I’m crafting for myself again, which means what I share comes from a place of joy, not just deadlines.

Let’s Stay Connected

I’d love for you to join me on this creative journey:

YouTube

Pinterest

Instagram

Facebook

Thank you for stopping by. I’m so grateful for every visit, and I hope you leave feeling inspired to create something today.

With love & creativity,

Lou x x x