The Illuminated Alphabet: 12 days of creativity
24th December 2025 - 4th January 2026
Reaching out during the festive period
Across the world, this time of year can be unsettling and bring into sharp focus the elements of life that we all struggle with. For the last five years, Ali has shared a demonstration during December to bring together those people who might feel alone, overwhelmed or a little bit lost and she will be repeating it again this year… but bigger and better than before.
If you are on your own or feel isolated, there is no shame in feeling that way - you might be surrounded by people and still be experiencing that same sense. Therefore, Ali would like to invite you to be part of her creative community in a project suitable for all abilities, particularly if you are a beginner or are struggling with confidence. For more information on how you can take part, or encourage others, please read the details below:
The 12 Days of Creativity is a free, gentle art project designed to bring people together over the Christmas period. Each day from December 24th to January 4th, you’ll receive a short video with printable resources guiding you to create your own illustrated initial — a personal piece inspired by the beauty of illuminated letters.
This project is for anyone who enjoys making things, whether you’re an experienced artist or just want a calm, creative focus during the holidays. You can follow along at your own pace, use whatever materials you have, and share your progress with others taking part.
It’s a space to slow down, enjoy small moments of creativity, and find light through art and community at a time of year that can feel busy or difficult.
To be the first to hear about this project and how to take part, fill out your email details to have all of the information delivered straight to your inbox…it’s going to be fantastic!
What materials do you need to take part?
Ali will try and make it as basic as she possibly can, with the opportunity to use art materials you may already have or would like to buy. Please come back to this page nearer the time to see more…
24th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day One: Together
Ali presents the project LIVE on YouTube, join her to find out how to take part and where to find the resources you need to take part.
Go straight to the broadcast or set a reminder HERE.
25th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Two: Spark
Designing your Illuminated Letter and transferring it to your surface Part 1.
26th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Three: Pattern
Designing your Illuminated Letter and transferring it to your surface Part 2.
27th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Four: Line
Inking in your drawing and testing your pens to find the right one for your project.
28th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Five: Colour
Choosing a colour scheme, testing combinations and making colour swatches.
29th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Six: Unity
Which materials to choose for your project and how to apply them.
30th December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Seven: Focus
Adding colour to your letter Part 1.
31st December 2025, 10:00 GMT
Day Eight: Harmony
Adding colour to your letter Part 2.
1st January 2026, 10:00 GMT
Day Nine: Glow
Embellishing your letter with a metallic element.
2nd January 2026, 10:00 GMT
Day Ten: Detail
Re-inking your letter and generally tidying up your project.
3rd January 2026, 10:00 GMT
Day Eleven: Wonder
Ideas for how you might like to present your project.
4th January 2026, 10:00 GMT
Day Twelve: Reflect
Where to go from here and how to share your work with our creative community.
Buy me a coffee…
This project is free for everyone to enjoy.
If it brings you joy or calm this winter, you can support my work by making a small, completely optional donation.
Your contribution helps me keep creating free creative resources for our community.
