Paper Talk

Sara Kim of Handmade by Sara Kim, Quynh Nguyen of Pink and Posey and Jessie Chui of Crafted to Bloom
  • 4.9 (32)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Evolution of Paper Talk… Our journey began in 2017 when the Paper Talk community took root as a Facebook group, providing a safe haven for paper flower enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and find like-minded artists from all corners of the world. As the community flourished, so did our opportunities to expand and collaborate. The establishment of The Paper Florists Collective led to inspiring multi-day workshops in Seattle and Toronto, attracting makers from across the globe. Soon after, our commitment to sharing knowledge grew even stronger, giving rise to a weekly podcast featuring leaders and artists from both within and beyond our community. Alongside this, we introduced online education programs like the Paper to Profits Program and Paper X Talk lecture series, dedicated to nurturing paper flower entrepreneurs. Our continuous growth prompted the natural evolution of our name, moving from The Paper Florists Collective to the unified identity of Paper Talk across all platforms. In 2023, Sara joined us as a new co-host alongside Quynh and Jessie. Throughout these changes, our unwavering mission remains steadfast: to foster creativity, connections, and growth as artists, makers, and entrepreneurs, united by the love for paper flowers. Join us as we continue to share ideas, stories, and inspire a vibrant community of creatives.

  1. Ep 189: Behind the Lens: How We Photograph and Film Our Paper Flowers

    1D AGO

    Ep 189: Behind the Lens: How We Photograph and Film Our Paper Flowers

    Have you ever wondered how we capture those beautiful shots of our paper flowers? In this episode, Quynh, Jessie, and Sara pull back the curtain on their photography and videography equipment, settings, and creative processes. Sara shares her daily filming routine and why she shoots the same action from multiple angles. Jessie breaks down her camera choices and explains why the person behind the lens matters more than the equipment. And Quynh reveals her favorite affordable tripod and why she upgraded her Canon for her book deal.   "Do a B-roll shot list of things that you want to capture because when you're filming, you forget you're thinking you're getting all this." - Quynh   Whether you're shooting with an iPhone or investing in professional equipment, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help you showcase your work beautifully.   Here’s What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Sara's complete camera setup and why she switched from Canon to Sony The importance of lenses over camera bodies (and which ones to invest in first) How to shoot multiple angles of the same action for dynamic content iPhone camera settings for the highest quality photos and videos Why natural light beats artificial lighting every single time The pre-production process: shot lists, prep work, and planning your day Editing software recommendations: Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Lightroom, and more How to find affordable secondhand camera equipment The best tripods for overhead shots and easy movement Microphone recommendations for clear audio in videos   Equipment & Tools Mentioned: Sony cameras (various models) with GM 16-35mm wide angle zoom lens Canon DSLR cameras Fujifilm GFX 50S II (for professional photography) Viltrox 20mm lens (affordable option, around $100) iPhone 16 Pro Max with specific camera settings Rode shotgun and wireless microphones DJI Osmo and DJI wireless remote Greek Geekcraft tripod (extends to 7 feet with magnetic phone mount) Tethering cables for shooting directly to computer   Editing Software Mentioned: Adobe Premiere Pro (video editing) Final Cut Pro (video editing for Mac users) Adobe Lightroom (photo editing) Adobe Photoshop (advanced photo editing) Edits app (mobile video editing) Snapseed (mobile photo editing) Capture One (professional photo editing with tethering)   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: KraftGeek Magnetic Phone Tripod  Jessie: TetherPro USB-C to USB-C Sara: Viltrox 20mm F2.8  Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.

    41 min
  2. Ep 188: Finding Your Why Again When Your Art Feels Heavy

    FEB 26

    Ep 188: Finding Your Why Again When Your Art Feels Heavy

    What happens when the hustle slows down and you're left wondering if you should get a teaching credential instead? In this raw and honest conversation, Quynh, Sara, and Jessie open up about the parts of running a creative business we don't usually talk about: the financial worries, the seasonal doubts, and the struggle to keep going when your energy isn't the same.   "I feel like every year it repeats and it always starts in January and sometime in the summer for me when I go through these random moments where I'm like, do I need to go get a part-time job? Do I need to maybe change careers?" - Sara   This isn't your typical "boss babe" pep talk. We are three paper artists who've been in business for over a decade, sitting down to have the real conversation about what it takes to sustain a creative life. We talk about the pressure to look perfect on social media while hiding the messy truth, how motherhood changes ambition, and why finding your "why" is the anchor that keeps you from drifting when things get hard.   What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Why January brings existential career questions (and why that's normal) The uncomfortable truth about money conversations in the artist community How to balance motherhood and creative ambition without feeling torn Why your medium isn't your message and what is The power of having people who understand your struggles Writing as a tool for clearing creative space in your mind How to tell if you're moving in the right direction (even when it's not clear)   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: You are the Brand by Mike Kim  Jessie: Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic by Lisa Congdon   Sara: Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek  Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.   ________________________________________________ JOIN OUR PAPER TALK MASTERMIND! If you've been running your paper business solo and you're tired of figuring out pricing, marketing, and selling alone, then this is for you. The Mastermind is back and we saved you a seat! Starting March 3, we are leading a 6-month Mastermind for paper artists ready to build something sustainable. You'll meet twice a month with us and a small group of paper artists tackling the real stuff: pricing, social media, selling your work, newsletters, and building confidence in your business. We’ll have honest conversations, dive into practical strategies, and be with people who actually understand what you're building. It’s $125/month for 6 months. Pay in full and save $50. Registration closes March 1. 👉 Join the Mastermind now!

    33 min
  3. Ep 187: When Beautiful Isn’t Enough: Branding, Identity, and Standing Out as an Artist

    FEB 12

    Ep 187: When Beautiful Isn’t Enough: Branding, Identity, and Standing Out as an Artist

    In Episode 187 of Paper Talk, your hosts Quynh Nguyen, Jessie Chui, and Sara Kim unpack one of the hardest but most necessary conversations for artists: branding, identity, and growth beyond technical skill. We reflect on what happens when everyone’s work starts to look the same, why burnout often stems from misalignment, and how honest outside feedback can shift everything. We talk about naming our businesses to photographing our work, from showing up consistently to embracing life experience as an asset.    “Hard conversations hurt, but they’re usually where the real change starts.” - Sara   Whether you’re early in your journey or years in, we hope our conversation offers perspective, encouragement, and a gentle push to evolve your art practice.   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: Dungeon Crawler Carl Jessie: Benjamin Moore Paint Colour Samples Sara: Screenprinting workshop Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.   ________________________________________________ JOIN OUR PAPER TALK MASTERMIND! If you've been running your paper business solo and you're tired of figuring out pricing, marketing, and selling alone, then this is for you. The Mastermind is back and we saved you a seat! Starting March 3, we are leading a 6-month Mastermind for paper artists ready to build something sustainable. You'll meet twice a month with us and a small group of paper artists tackling the real stuff: pricing, social media, selling your work, newsletters, and building confidence in your business. We’ll have honest conversations, dive into practical strategies, and be with people who actually understand what you're building. It’s $125/month for 6 months. Pay in full and save $50. Registration closes March 1. 👉 Join the Mastermind now!

    35 min
  4. Ep 186: The Hand of Nature: Where Floral Mechanics Meet Paper Art with Hitomi Gilliam

    JAN 29

    Ep 186: The Hand of Nature: Where Floral Mechanics Meet Paper Art with Hitomi Gilliam

    In Episode 186 of Paper Talk, we welcome the incomparable floral designer and educator, Hitomi Gilliam for a deeply thoughtful conversation on floral mechanics, Ikebana, color theory, and what it truly means to make flowers feel alive. Hitomi brings decades of experience in floristry, Ikebana, and teaching to our discussion. In it, she shares how “economy of means” shapes her work, why neutrals like browns and grays quietly hold color stories together, and how mechanics become the bridge between imagination and execution. Together, we explore the powerful overlap between paper flowers and fresh floristry, sustainability, interdisciplinary learning, and the idea she calls the “hand of nature.”   “Mechanics are the enabler. Without them, the vision stays a sketch.” - Hitomi Gilliam   This episode is especially valuable for artists interested in sustainability, Ikebana principles, and designing with intention rather than excess. Learn more about Hitomi on her website and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!   👉 Join Hitomi and Quynh at their Paper Flower Crown Workshop in April 2026! Sign up before February 15th to get FREE complimentary paper flower supplies. Register here.    👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: Petite Knit Sophie Hood Pattern Jessie: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask Sara: Brown woven scalloped baskets Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs.. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.    ------ Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear from you! Share your insights with us on Instagram @papertalkpodcast or join our Facebook community discussions. Your experiences inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire you.  Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Paper Talk wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.

    1h 3m
  5. Ep 185: To Niche or Not to Niche: Finding Clarity as a Creative

    JAN 15

    Ep 185: To Niche or Not to Niche: Finding Clarity as a Creative

    How niche should you be as a creative? In this episode of Paper Talk Podcast, Quynh Nguyen, Jessie Chui, and Sara Kim sit down for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about niching down. They reflect on how their businesses have evolved, the challenges of serving multiple audiences, and the clarity that comes from defining who you are truly creating for.   “Teaching art and selling art are two very different conversations.” - Jessie   Jessie shares her decision to separate her fine art practice from her educational offerings, while Sara reflects on choosing cohesion over complexity within one brand. Together, they discuss branding, price points, audience expectations, and why confusion often leads to disengagement. This episode also offers a glimpse into the kind of real, thoughtful conversations that happen inside the Paper Talk Mastermind.   Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: What it really means to niche down One brand vs. multiple brands Teaching vs. selling art Audience confusion and clarity Branding consistency The role of feedback and community   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: White Plastic Panel Jessie: USB-A to Lightning Charger Cable Sara: Salvo Plant Stand Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs.. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.    ------ Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear from you! Share your insights with us on Instagram @papertalkpodcast or join our Facebook community discussions. Your experiences inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire you.  Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Paper Talk wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.

    31 min
  6. Ep 184: Welcome to 2026: Finding Balance Between Art, Business, and Burnout

    JAN 1

    Ep 184: Welcome to 2026: Finding Balance Between Art, Business, and Burnout

    Welcome to 2026! Hosts Quynh Nguyen, Sara Kim, and Jessie Chui reflect on the highlights of 2025 and share how they’re approaching the new year with renewed purpose. From their favorite podcast moments to candid conversations about burnout, community, and social media, this episode offers a genuine look at what it means to balance artistry with entrepreneurship. Quynh opens up about personal challenges with her dog Butter’s health and how she’s navigating creative burnout. Sara and Jessie share thoughtful perspectives on how to reconnect with creativity through simple joys, honest reflection, and community support. Together, they explore the evolving world of social media, the importance of defining purpose across platforms, and the grounding power of real connection.   “You don’t always have to produce something to feel worthy. Sometimes doing nothing is what you need most.” - Jessie   If you’ve ever struggled to find your creative spark again, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone.   Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Reflections on our favorite 2025 episodes and lessons we learned How we handle burnout and reconnect with creativity Defining the balance between artist and entrepreneur The evolution of social media and how we use it intentionally Upcoming details on the Paper Talk Mastermind (March 2026 cohort)   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bag Jessie: Gold Kili Natural Ginger Bag with Lemon Sara: Trader Joe’s Mini Insulated Tote Bag Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs.. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.    ------ Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear from you! Share your insights with us on Instagram @papertalkpodcast or join our Facebook community discussions. Your experiences inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire you.  Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Paper Talk wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.

    39 min
  7. Ep 183: From Cricut to Content: Building a Crafting Career with Karina Golindo

    12/18/2025

    Ep 183: From Cricut to Content: Building a Crafting Career with Karina Golindo

    In this episode of Paper Talk, Quynh, Jessie, and Sara sit down with Karina Golindo, the creative mind behind Crafty Kari, to talk about the intersection of crafting, content creation, and entrepreneurship. From sublimation to YouTube tutorials, Karina shares how her creative journey began with a Cricut during lockdown and evolved into a thriving business and online community.    “Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Just start. Mistakes are how we learn.” - Karina   Hear how she balances motherhood, content creation, and managing her small business, all while staying true to her love for making. Karina also opens up about networking as an introvert, shifting between short-form and long-form content, and the lessons she’s learned from building her creative career one project at a time.   Here’s what you’ll hear in this Episode: How to balance being a maker, content creator, and business owner Why community and collaboration are vital for growth Tips for creating consistent content without burnout How to embrace imperfection and just start  👉  Follow Karina to learn more about her amazing journey and craft business Instagram @craftykari_ YouTube at Crafty Kari Website Crafty Kari.    👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: Trader Joe’s Dried Figs Dipped in Chocolate Jessie: Reusable Water Balloons  Sara: Costco’s Pumpkin Pie Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs.. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.    ------ Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear from you! Share your insights with us on Instagram @papertalkpodcast or join our Facebook community discussions. Your experiences inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire you.  Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Paper Talk wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.

    44 min
  8. Ep 182: Beyond the Template: Finding Your Own Creative Voice

    12/04/2025

    Ep 182: Beyond the Template: Finding Your Own Creative Voice

    In this episode of Paper Talk, Quynh Nguyen, Jessie Chui, and Sara Kim dive into the art and philosophy of creating your own paper flower templates. What begins as a practical discussion quickly blooms into a conversation about creativity, confidence, and the evolution of each artist’s personal style. They explore how templates serve as both a foundation and a springboard, and how learning from others can give you structure, but learning from nature gives you freedom. The hosts reflect on their early years when few templates existed, the role of technology like iPads and AI in documenting and improving designs, and why embracing imperfection makes your flowers truly yours.   “Templates give confidence, but real mastery comes from experience, skill, and time.” - Jessie   Whether you’re new to paper floristry or refining your craft, this episode is an invitation to experiment, observe, and grow.   What You’ll Hear in this Episode: How to transition from using templates to designing your own Finding confidence in imperfection Using technology (Procreate, Canva, ChatGPT) to organize and elevate your creative process How selling your templates can lead to new income streams The joy and discipline of revisiting flowers over time   👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20 Quynh: Triangle Ruler set Jessie: Manual Balloon Pump  Sara: Free People Sonix Beaded Phone Charm  Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs.. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.    ------ Join the Conversation! We'd love to hear from you! Share your insights with us on Instagram @papertalkpodcast or join our Facebook community discussions. Your experiences inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire you.  Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Paper Talk wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.

    41 min
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4.9
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

The Evolution of Paper Talk… Our journey began in 2017 when the Paper Talk community took root as a Facebook group, providing a safe haven for paper flower enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and find like-minded artists from all corners of the world. As the community flourished, so did our opportunities to expand and collaborate. The establishment of The Paper Florists Collective led to inspiring multi-day workshops in Seattle and Toronto, attracting makers from across the globe. Soon after, our commitment to sharing knowledge grew even stronger, giving rise to a weekly podcast featuring leaders and artists from both within and beyond our community. Alongside this, we introduced online education programs like the Paper to Profits Program and Paper X Talk lecture series, dedicated to nurturing paper flower entrepreneurs. Our continuous growth prompted the natural evolution of our name, moving from The Paper Florists Collective to the unified identity of Paper Talk across all platforms. In 2023, Sara joined us as a new co-host alongside Quynh and Jessie. Throughout these changes, our unwavering mission remains steadfast: to foster creativity, connections, and growth as artists, makers, and entrepreneurs, united by the love for paper flowers. Join us as we continue to share ideas, stories, and inspire a vibrant community of creatives.

Information

  • Creator
    Sara Kim of Handmade by Sara Kim, Quynh Nguyen of Pink and Posey and Jessie Chui of Crafted to Bloom
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    189
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Paper Talk
  • Show Website
    Paper Talk

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