In our Open Studio Tour series, we step inside the creative spaces of fellow Etsians to see where their process begins. This is a chance to get to know your fellow makers and perhaps find inspiration for your own studio!
What’s your name and what do you make?
My name is Patricia and I’m an Italian girl living in Paris where I am a student in an art school. Besides my studies, I discovered that I’m a compulsive crafter! I have an obsession with rubber stamps, especially since I’ve learned to make them by myself.
Where is your studio situated?
My studio, which also serves as my living space, is situated in a little attic under the roofs of Paris.
When did you decide that you needed a studio?
As an art student, my work almost immediately overtook my living space. Whenever I discover a new technique, I bring home the material I need and find a place to install it. When I rented my flat, it was completely stark. Little by little, I filled it up — beyond its capacities — and it has taken the shape of an authentic atelier!
Did you make any sacrifices to create your studio?
Here in Paris, flats for students are very expensive for very little space. To live and work simultaneously in such a small area is certainly a sacrifice. At the same time it is also a challenge; the paucity of space pushes me to keep each square centimeter organized, since it’s also my home!
What is you favorite tool in your workspace?
Among my tools, what I use the most are my rubber stamps. I have a huge collection, both hand carved and bought over the course of my life. I have so many stamps that I created a special place for them in little transparent drawers that allow me to find them with ease. I’m also proud of a special carving cutter that I bought here in Paris in an engraving shop in front of Notre Dame. It was rather expensive, but it cuts rubber like butter! Furthermore, I have tender feelings for my “moka,” an Italian coffee maker. I need my daily dose of coffee before and during working.
How many hours do you normally spend in your studio?
As many hours as I can. I dedicate a lot of time to things I love to do. However, I do not have defined working hours.
Is there anything you would add to your work space?
In my little studio there’s just enough space for a little dog that could keep me company while I’m crafting!What object in your studio inspires you the most?
Definitely my rabbit lamp! When I lack inspiration, I turn it on and wait for ideas to flow into my head. Sometimes it works! Joking aside, I also have a collection of revues and books that offer wonderful inspiration.
How does Paris inspire the work you do in your studio?
I love the great multi-ethnicity of Paris. My creations are not simply inspired by French things, but by the wonderful melting pot I can find outside of my door. All countries are represented in this town: Russia, Japan, India, Turkey, China and more. It’s like traveling around the world without moving! Also, living on the sixth and highest floor of a building is a source of inspiration in itself — to see roofs and smoking chimneys allows me to breathe in the dreaming atmosphere of the city from a privileged position.
If you have an interesting studio or workspace, share it with us on the Etsy Open Studio Tour Flickr pool, and you may be next in our Open Studio Tour post!
Shop Local: Paris | I Heart France Team | Etsy French Blog | Articles tagged “France”
167 comments
Sign in to add your ownyaelfran says:
Great studio, amazing space!!! Congrats, love your shop so much!!!!! Yael
2 years ago
dkalvarez says:
Wow, I just love the fact that you create some of your own supplies and that you draw so much inspiration from the environment around you. What a pleasure it was to hear your story. Katie
2 years ago
CositasSeriasVintage says:
Wonderful article. I love your studio! My studio is in need of much organization since I run my shop, and also am an art student! (And my name is also Patricia :)) Best of luck to you in your ventures. Congratulations on the great article!
2 years ago
funktionslust says:
Aw man, I SO wish I had a beautiful studio space like that!!! Congratulations!
2 years ago
MissHildebrandt says:
Pretty neat. I just love your small crafty space! Enjoy!
2 years ago
monkeyandsquirrel says:
wow, i envy your organization! those little jars are super cute... as is that kitty at the window! great use of space while still keeping it nice and cozy :)
2 years ago
EyeCandyByAmy says:
Love your studio and your shop ..... very cool. Great article too!
2 years ago
chocolatecreative says:
What a sweet space, small but very well organised and with plenty of light that is very important!! Marga http://chocolatecreative.blogspot.com/
2 years ago
iroirocrafts says:
(speechless) Your work space is just beautiful, and to have a view over Paris...wow. And your items are lovely too! So kawaii ^.^
2 years ago
vohandmade says:
I love to see artist workspaces :) They are always inspirational in themselves.
2 years ago
CocoaBeans says:
i love your space and the way you have organized everything:)
2 years ago
GloryBDesign says:
I wish my space was as organized as yours! I need to work on that! Love the raindrop felt pin! Congrats!
2 years ago
countrypatches says:
What a great place to have a studio! Your stamps are wonderful creations!
2 years ago
ChasingtheCrayon says:
Oh I do love a nose around the working spaces of artists..your little studio looks beautifully organised and so interesting....great article
2 years ago
VeloNoir says:
Hello from Seattle, Patricia:) I am very much inspired by your wonderful atelier/home and your lovely work! I also live in a small apartment that has now become my studio. Being organized is a must though it is still sometimes difficult. I love how you use the Bonne Maman jars for storage--very charming! XO--Christine
2 years ago
oodalollies says:
this sounds (and looks) like a dream come true! a little attic art studio in paris? you are one lucky girl. i'm deeply green with envy... i think i love the tiny house stamp with the pipe-smoking chimney the most! your work is adorable and inspiring. best of luck in all things etsy (:
2 years ago
simplyyoujewelry says:
Love your workspace! Bon courage!
2 years ago
teclur says:
Cute studio with lot of light and a Parisian view, oh la la! Love your stuff as well!! ;-)
2 years ago
rosebudshome says:
Small space but very neat and clean. I want one! Red riding hood felt necklace is neat.
2 years ago
Colettesboutique says:
Love your studio space and your shop as well! and I love Paris.
2 years ago
Asianexpressions says:
Love your studio!
2 years ago
BlueRoomBijoux says:
Wow, the view from her room is the same as the view from my house in Greece when I visit! What warm feelings this brings to my heart! Good luck to you, I love your creations! XOX
2 years ago
creativityismessy says:
I love your space! Such great organization - I'm so jealous!!
2 years ago
rooftopstudio says:
i love the little hedgehog, if i made my own stamps if never leave my studio! so cute!
2 years ago
HelloShoes says:
Wow Great workspace :)
2 years ago
bibliographica says:
Your studio is just gorgeous, and to have Paris at one's feet....May I speak for myself, as well as many other Etsians who would envy you!! It's very well organised and you make gorgeous stamps! Good luck with your creations and studies!! :)
2 years ago
marsia says:
Would you look at that work surface under the skylights! Wonderful. And how neat and orderly everything is in that tiny space! The use of the red-check-lidded jelly jars as storage and organizers is inspired--and visually so appealing. I must confess to envy. Ah, well, maybe in the next life. . . .
2 years ago
BasahanAlit says:
It's very organized, yet so crafty. Fabulous!
2 years ago
Garden22DesignStudio says:
I love your workspace! And such a cute shop, too. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
Kankou says:
What a space, what a lovely art! I am french and I dream of a space like this in my hometown!
2 years ago
lilabelledesign says:
beautiful worskpace, very calming ;o)
2 years ago
oatkacreekstudio says:
Your designs are so fun; thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
VivaGailBeads says:
such a sweet little space! I do envy your organization!
2 years ago
StudioCybele says:
very cool. Great article too!
2 years ago
Thelimeshop says:
I can't think of a more romantic setting - a student in paris. how wonderful! great use of space in your studio and Patricia and what great illustrations!
2 years ago
choisette says:
patricia, your atelier is super-chouette!
2 years ago
OhDearWatson says:
i love rubber stamps too
2 years ago
Verdurebydesign says:
What a wonderful city to be inspired in. Congratulations on your article and thank you for so generously sharing.
2 years ago
Lindensage says:
A lovely place!
2 years ago
maggiemaevintage says:
wonderful space...so neat and organized (that's where I need to be).
2 years ago
chelebert12 says:
Love this article! Loooved your space. It is adorable. I really have to get more organized.
2 years ago
alicejdesign says:
Thank you for sharing with us!
2 years ago
snotbubble says:
Oah how cool! I love this new Open Studio Ap!
2 years ago
snotbubble says:
Posting art studios should be a regular thing, I love this
2 years ago
jamieribisi says:
What a stunning studio space!!! I'm drooling over here!
2 years ago
OdalisPetitMenagerie says:
Love your shop!
2 years ago
ohbuoy says:
That's what i call organization. Nothing in my workspace looks that kept together. Wow!
2 years ago
linguaNigra says:
I am so happy this is happening again! I love to peek into someone's home and workspace!
2 years ago
scribblingclub says:
Very Cute!
2 years ago
nowonder says:
Stunning place! I like how the design of the studeo matches the spirit of the items you make. So Beautiful!
2 years ago
myvintagecrush says:
Love your style! Cute, creative and living in Paris - dream :)
2 years ago
CinnamonInk says:
Love, love, love this series idea! So fun to see how other people live and work in a small space!
2 years ago
vintagechickdesigns says:
Very cool and inspiring.
2 years ago
Sumikoshop says:
I love your studio I like the rooms in the attic so cute even your vessels ...
2 years ago
NoFrump says:
I wish my studio was that cozy, organized, and cute! Someday...!
2 years ago
BannerCat says:
Such a sweet little space to live. I hope you can find a darling little doggie to keep you company. :)
2 years ago
CitrusMoonArt says:
Ah, Paris! Very inspiring studio! I'm off to your shop right now to pick out a little something. :)
2 years ago
IslaNewYork says:
This is awesome! What a beautiful studio/work space, and your view is amazing! I like that you used little jam jars to hold all your beautiful stamps!
2 years ago
Mclovebuddy says:
super cute studio. i love the reused preserve jars of bon maman fillled with notions.
2 years ago
MemiTheRainbow says:
I'm very flattered by all these cute comments! Thanks to everybody! And, of course, a special thank to Chappell for featuring mon atelier!
2 years ago
RubyMarilyn says:
This is so crazy, I just discovered MemiTheRainbow last night on flickr and I quickly flitted over to her lovely blog and etsy shops. Small world. I love it.
2 years ago
FiligreeCreations says:
Very cute studio and great story! Good luck!!!
2 years ago
gretchenmist says:
such a beautiful studio and space! love paris!! your shop is gorgeous too :)
2 years ago
sandrassatchels says:
Great Spats!
2 years ago
artofjane says:
The roof top view looks so wonderful!
2 years ago
AZCreativeStudio says:
Charming studio! Your work is beautiful! Congrats on the feature!
2 years ago
EForestCreations says:
Looks similar to my dream studio that I hope to over look 10 acres some day. Your shop is adorable, has so many eclectic goodies to choose from. :-)
2 years ago
tomatored says:
wonderful studio space!
2 years ago
tomatored says:
congrats to you for your success!
2 years ago
cheapherveleger says:
Cool idea! Thanks for sharing! http://www.cheap-herve-leger.com
2 years ago
Parachute425 says:
Great, light space! Continued success to you.
2 years ago
cheapherveleger says:
Cool idea! Thanks for sharing! http://www.cheap-herve-leger.com
2 years ago
snookumsandme says:
What an inspiring studio!!! I just love your shop, too. Very unique & ultra-creative. So glad I stumbled upon this article. :)
2 years ago
mywifesstudio says:
What a great space to live and work. Thanks for sharing it with all of us!
2 years ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Thank you for sharing your wonderful space where you create and live. I love the open studio articles.
2 years ago
hankietankie says:
so sweet and inspirational! lovely work! xox
2 years ago
BellaPuzzlesToo says:
Patricia, your apartment/studio seems like a lovely place to work. Your stamps are excellent. Best of luck!
2 years ago
strawberryluna says:
Awww, yay! You live in my all time favorite city, Paris :) Your shop is adorable, and your studio / living space even more so. I am blown away by your skill of organization and yet? It looks so cozy and nice there. Thanks for sharing with us and congratulations!
2 years ago
ParisPhotographer says:
Excellent. I head back to Paris in three weeks and can not to set up shop there. Your shop is great and what an inspiration.
2 years ago
ParisPhotographer says:
that should read can not wait to set up shop there oops sorry xxx
2 years ago
Czenyu says:
Really like your lens, wishing you all best :-) http://www.czenyu.com
2 years ago
felicitycrew says:
Very inspiring to create my own little space. Thanks for sharing your place!
2 years ago
DesiCloe says:
it was a nice surprise when I read that you are italian :) It is always a pleasure finding talented compatriots!
2 years ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
The view outside your window is beautiful! I love Paris, had a great week there once, looks like a lovely compact studio.
2 years ago
katherinelkerrison says:
very very inspiring i love your shop to! your space is so ordered and m also i love with your rabit lamp! where did you find that treasure!!! great read :D im inspired! right new dress! x
2 years ago
pouch says:
we went to Paris in 2008, I loved it, such an amazing city...I want to go back!
2 years ago
littlemoandfriends says:
what a lovely little craft space!! Sooooo cute!!! Thanks for sharing, I really had fun reading this piece and looking at your lovely pics! xoxox
2 years ago
Gynx says:
Beautiful space!
2 years ago
TinfenaStudio says:
what a lovely studio!
2 years ago
wantsky says:
can I trade lives with you! I wouldnt mind being italian, living in paris, making stamps, and owning a bunny lamp! Cute article.
2 years ago
birchgrovehandmade says:
Love this post! A talented designer with wonderful products and a picturesque studio.
2 years ago
rakshniyavintage says:
Oh my goodness! How beautiful, it might be small but I would love to trade places with you :) I love your studio/flat.
2 years ago
HeartstringsByJanice says:
Beautiful
2 years ago
inkmeup says:
gorgeous space... I love my attic flat studio, it's so cosy!
2 years ago
paizleypolkadot says:
I love your stamps! I am addicted as well to rubber stamps and I think it is so neat that you make them.
2 years ago
SherriWeeseDesigns says:
Adorable space. Being in Paris, you must find a lot of inspiration just walking outside your studio as well!
2 years ago
paigeweasel says:
What an enjoyable read! I adore this cozy space and the artist's creations. Thanks a bunch for sharing!
2 years ago
WhirlGirlGlass says:
What a wonderful veiw and light you have to work by!
2 years ago
tuckooandmoocow says:
I love this studio and can completely relate! My studio space right now is also my husband's and my bedroom. Since we're living with my parents for a little while, we share the room with an upright grand piano and whichever child decides to pop in to chat, play video games, or do homework (I have 4 younger siblings still living at home). I completely get the need to stay organized in confined quarters! We find ourselves cleaning a lot everyday.
2 years ago
pearlygrae says:
what a beautifully inspiring place to work! It shows in all your beautiful wares. Thanks for letting us in your studio.
2 years ago
FerntreeStudio says:
Truly lovely!
2 years ago
MarbleandMilkweed says:
what a lovely space! it can be very inspiring to work within the confines of a small space - you have to be that much more creative!
2 years ago
sappho123 says:
Wow! Your studio gives me ideas on how to setup my own. I love the jam jars with the red and white plaid lids. With the amount of jam that we eat, I could definitely reuse those babies. I was thinking about wrapping twine around some of them to give them a more rustic feel. Thank you for sharing!!
2 years ago
AuracaunaDesigns says:
Lovely! Such an inspiration to me to organize my wee space better!
2 years ago
frenchtoastfriday says:
A room in the attic with a big window. How lovely!
2 years ago
SavoyFaire says:
Oh La La! Lucky you in Paris! I ADORE hand made rubber stamps - we need more of them in the world for the stick drawing people like me. Thank you and best to you!
2 years ago
Level9 says:
reminds me of the houses in Holland! great studio!
2 years ago
nouveaute says:
*jealous* i have some awesome areas in the studio but also a lot of areas of intense messiness. i go project to project and leave things out. plus one of my cats loves bringing bags of beads downstairs. I bet the view beautiful year round!
2 years ago
ChellaBellaDesigns says:
I think being in Paris would be inspiration enough! I have the gorgeous views of Mountains on 2 sides of my home in the beautiful Saguaro National Forrest of Tucson, AZ. (See pics of my lil' studio here http://www.flickr.com/photos/greytescape/sets/72157623972801229/) and I am surrounded by rescued greyhounds whom are so gentle & beautiful you can't help being inspired by their glory. And laugh at the silly things they do..... Great story! I love hearing of others work spaces and where they are located.
2 years ago
janeb74 says:
what a creative space!! And in such a BEAUTIFUL and INSPIRING city!!
2 years ago
EnergyDrawings says:
How amazing! Can I rent when you move? ;)
2 years ago
ikabags says:
Love your studio space and your shop too :) And Paris :)))
2 years ago
simplyhue says:
I'm so inspired by this wonderful article and by Memi's creative space! It's motivating me to create an area for myself. Thanks, Memi! P.S. I'm an Italian girl in Seattle. ;)
2 years ago
QuiltFinger says:
I'm in love! Thanks so much for letting us see your charming workspace.
2 years ago
CamilleMarie says:
Love your article and your cute crafts! Inspiring!
2 years ago
InformalElegance says:
Beautiful workspace! I love your windows! Thanks for sharing your space with us:) Tres jolie!
2 years ago
DigitalCS says:
Hi Patricia! Hi white Rabbit! I love your cute designs!:)
2 years ago
ClosetGothic says:
A delightful little story and such a lovely studio space.
2 years ago
sheilamontheard says:
Your studio looks so inviting...bright, charming and super organized. I love the photos of the Paris rooftops, especially the one with the cat.
2 years ago
BubbleGumAndButtons says:
Beautiful and might I add, super organized!
2 years ago
dollbabedesigns says:
Oh how wonderful! What cute stamps! I'm inspired to try that sometime! Thank you for the inspiration!
2 years ago
happydayart says:
What a sweet place!
2 years ago
TheAngryWeather says:
Very cool! i love her shop!!
2 years ago
nyjolejewellery says:
What cute adorable place, you have made a gorgeous retreat for yourself in such a small environment. A place called home, thank you for sharing. It's extremely interesting to see how people live and create their art in different parts of the globe.
2 years ago
nyjolejewellery says:
I forgot to mentioned, that I really enjoyed reading this feature.
2 years ago
LAccentNou says:
Wonderful interview! Nice to meet you, Patricia!
2 years ago
DanielaBrazilCrafts says:
What a wonderful and lovely space you have, I can see so much of myself in your way of life...!As you , I just don't feel the weigh of working while I'm doing my crafts... I can clearly see how much of love you put in your creations. Thanks for sharing your home with me!
2 years ago
BeCharmedDesigns says:
What a pretty studio. Thank you for the article - a lovely read.
2 years ago
Lapenca says:
I love your multicultural approach! The diversity is what makes this world so beatiful!
2 years ago
Decadence2artbar says:
how cute is that apartment? I love the peek into other peoples spaces, I just had a friend over for a Play Date in my studio and seeing it through someone elses eyes is interesting....
2 years ago
gertie109 says:
Thanks for such a lovely article. I'm sure I too would be inspired if I was looking out over the rooftops of Paris - sigh!!! And your stamps are just too cute!
2 years ago
Junienone says:
What a darling space! I love how you've used every inch and made it cute at the same time... I especially love the photos mounted on string like garlands - awesome!
2 years ago
mustardseedartstudio says:
I learned recently that the beautiful space I had rented made me feel anxious and somehow I felt I had to "live up to it"---I've moved back home and curling up on my little red couch is finally coaxing the true artist out into the open. Your little space is an inspiration! Enjoy!
2 years ago
comeonoverclover says:
Beautiful! I'm a bit jealous!
2 years ago
coonbelle says:
Great article. I love what you've done with your space.
2 years ago
VanRox says:
So Nice! What a sweet place you have! Makes me want to start creating again just before bedtime! ;)
2 years ago
SaguaroAlley says:
Wow! What a beautiful place to be!!!! Thank you for your inspiration!!!!
2 years ago
divinalocura says:
wonderful shop!!!!
2 years ago
tresorbox says:
Wow, this is a really nice studio!! I believe the crafter in us always dreams of such a lovely and well organized studio and what a view!!! :)
2 years ago
Simag says:
♥B E A U T I F U L♥ LOVE your space and the way you have organized everything. GREAT article very Inspiring! Thanks for sharing :)
2 years ago
BlueDayDesigns says:
Oh boy - you are soooo organised and tidy. I love your cute little stamps :)
2 years ago
Kasploy says:
wonderful studio space! Thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
LavenderField says:
What an incredible studio! Congratulations on your success!
2 years ago
HummingBoxStudios says:
You are living my dream ! :)
2 years ago
matinlapin says:
Such a beautiful studio! Super jealous! Thanks for the inspiration :)
2 years ago
poutine says:
You have a beautiful studio.
2 years ago
GoodLookinTreasures says:
What a lovely space to live, ..to dream, ..to create!
2 years ago
JoannasTreasures says:
What a beautiful attic space. You're obviously very well organised and your passion for what you do has created a fantastic place to live in a fabulous city. Good luck with your business.
2 years ago
DearEdna says:
Oh my goodness, those stamps are adorable! And I admire you for living and working in such a small space and making it work. You must be super organized and tidy!
2 years ago
sandisparkles says:
love the view and work!
2 years ago
MysticalRaindrops says:
Fun stuff.
2 years ago
benconservato says:
Gorgeous work. I love your space too. I miss France.
2 years ago
MemiTheRainbow says:
Dear all, thank you very much for your warm comments, I'm glad that you like both my studio and my work!! Merci, je vous adore :) !
2 years ago
ManoBello says:
Wow...just think what you'll do when you have a bigger work-space, after school! I had no idea Paris looked like that! You have amazing skills and motivation. You will go far! Congrats!
2 years ago
angelicwatrs17 says:
a dream come true... all of my goodies organized....
2 years ago
redcollieart says:
Thanks for the wonderful tour of your studio! I know how easily a studio can get overcrowded and I am constantly reorganizing.
2 years ago
moonstr says:
cutecutecute!
2 years ago
LovesParis says:
I enjoyed seeing how well you use the small space. You are so lucky to be Italian and studying in Paris. I have only visited Paris and Italy, but I carry them and all the beauty I saw in my soul! Best wishes for continued success in all that you do or strive to achieve! Patti
2 years ago
sweetlittlefelt says:
What I want to know is.. how does she get her stamps so clean? It's insane!
2 years ago
Baisimu says:
Such a lovely workspace!! I look forward to getting an apartment myself so I could have a study room for my books and crafting supplies!!
2 years ago
stylesupplier says:
Cool, wonderful space!
2 years ago
denises72 says:
Such a nice, organized studio. Best of Luck to you!
2 years ago
jalin1985 says:
Very strong
2 years ago
jaipuronline says:
Very interesting.......
2 years ago
anadiazarte says:
I love it!
2 years ago
crowellexpressions says:
After I read this, I went and reorganized my area and I'm starting to fix everything up! Beautiful space!
2 years ago
GufoLab says:
ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Paris, my dream...congrats!
1 year ago