From Sketchbook to Wall: A Real-Life Mural Breakdown 🖌️🧱
Let me walk you through one of my favourite mural journeys, from the very first sketch to the last brushstroke.
I chose this one because it shows just how human and complex the mural process is. It started, like most great things do, with a conversation over Zoom. Now that it's complete, I'm thrilled to share how it came to life, step by step. ☕🎨
The Story Behind the Wall ☕
This mural lives at Nicaroma Café, a beautiful gem in Toronto that brings all the colour and warmth of Nicaragua into the city.
When they reached out, they weren't just looking for "something pretty." They wanted a story, a wall that spoke to identity, values, and pride. A space that made people pause and smile. A visual reminder of what it means to be from the land of colour, nature, and passion.
🌺It Starts with Listening
The first step? Seeing the wall. I imagined how people would move through the café, how it would feel to sit with a coffee in hand, chatting with a friend.
Then came the questions: What are your roots? What message do you want this wall to send? How do you want your customers to feel when they walk in?
That's always where the real design begins.
Sketch First✏️ , Refine Later
I started sketching in my notebook. Nothing fancy. Just rhythm, flow, and instinct. I let the shapes move. I followed colour memories. I layered in all the must-haves they asked for.
Then came the digital mockup. Bolder. Clearer. Still full of feeling.
There were revisions, of course. That's part of the dance. But the direction was set:
Warmth, joy, and connection.
Paint Day = Magic (and Chaos)
Time to bring it to life! I prepped the wall, taped the edges, and loaded up my gear.
About halfway through? It looked wild. Too many colours. Not enough contrast.
That's the part of every mural where you have to trust the process. I've been here before. I know that just one more line, one more detail, one more highlight, and suddenly it all clicks into place.
What the Wall Says 🎨
Once it was done and I stepped back, I could feel it: This wall now speaks. To Nicaraguans in the city, it says: You're welcome here. To anyone walking in, it says, 'This space is alive with culture and joy.'
To me, it says, 'This is why you paint.'
…Why This Mural Mattered
This project reminded me why I do what I do. To bring joy, identity, and story to the walls around us. Whether it's a café, a classroom, or a community hub, murals possess a remarkable power to connect and transform.
👉🏽 Want Your Mural Magic?
If you're dreaming up a mural for your business, café, or creative space, I've got you. 🌿
I created a free guide that breaks down everything you need to know to feel confident bringing your idea to life. Download the guide here or send me a DM, and let's start sketching ideas.
And if you're a creative soul seeking grounded advice on growing your art practice, my newsletter is filled with stories, mural tips, and behind-the-scenes insights from this vibrant creative life. Let's stay connected 💌