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Culinary

Free download: A Practical Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Cortisol Rhythm

Taking care of your cortisol is also taking care of your creativity. Creativity does not depend only on inspiration or talent. Our physical and mental state plays a key role in how we think, feel and create. Among the many factors that influence our daily well-being, cortisol, known as the stress hormone, has a direct impact on energy, concentration and mental clarity. For creative people, maintaining a healthy cortisol rhythm can make the difference between productive days and others dominated by fatigue, anxiety or creative block. When cortisol becomes unbalanced, lack of focus, mental exhaustion or difficulty in getting a good night's rest can occur, affecting the creative process. That's why today we are sharing a free downloadable practical guide designed to help you understand how cortisol works and, above all, how to regulate it in a simple way to take care of your well-being and boost your creative energy. What is cortisol and why you should pay attention to it if you are a creative person? Cortisol is an essential hormone naturally produced by our body. Its main function is to help us respond to stress, regulate metabolism and keep us active throughout the day. At the right levels, it is necessary and beneficial. The problem arises when cortisol remains elevated for too long or when its natural rhythm is disturbed. In creative people, this can result in: -Difficulty concentrating or maintaining focus. -Feeling of constant mental exhaustion. -Sleep problems or poor rest. -Mood swings, irritability or anxiety. -Frequent creative blocks. There is a myth that cortisol is always negative, but the reality is that the important thing is not to eliminate it, but to respect its natural rhythm: higher in the morning to activate us and lower at night to be able to rest. [What will you find in this practical guide? The Practical Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Cortisol Rhythm is designed as a clear, visual and easy-to-apply resource, even in demanding creative schedules. In it you will find: -Concrete strategies for regulating cortisol throughout the day. -Nutritional recommendations to help stabilize energy. -Rest and sleep habits that promote a balanced hormonal rhythm. -Advice on exposure to natural light and physical movement. -Simple stress management techniques adapted to the creative life. -Practical routines to avoid exhaustion peaks and energy slumps.
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Illustration

Free download: Tone exercises to improve your botanical drawing

Free resource: tone exercises to improve your botanical drawing. Botanical drawing is a discipline where observation and precision coexist with artistic sensitivity. Beyond form and contour, there is a key element that makes the difference between a flat drawing and one full of life: tone. Knowing how to work correctly with lights, shadows and tonal gradations is essential to represent volume, texture and depth in organic forms such as leaves, flowers or fruits. This free resource comes from the course Mastering botanical drawing with graphite pencil techniques and is intended as a practical support for those who want to improve their technique step by step. Through simple and progressive exercises, you will be able to train your graphite control and refine your eye to understand how light builds form in botanical drawing. What is tone and why is it so important in botanical drawing?[/b In drawing, tone refers to the varying degrees of lightness and darkness used to represent light and shadow. It's not just about "shading," it's about understanding how light strikes an object and how that information translates into tonal values on paper. In botanical drawing, tone plays an especially important role. Natural forms are rarely flat or uniform: they exhibit smooth curves, folds, veins and subtle changes in texture. Controlling tone allows you to suggest these qualities without overloading the drawing with lines, adding realism and depth. In addition, working well with tone helps to: - Better understand the three-dimensional structure of plants. - Differentiate planes and volumes clearly. - Convey delicacy and precision, two key values of botanical drawing.
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Craft

Free download: Examples for moving from idea to thread

Embroidery: a thread between emotion and creation. Embroidery is not only a craft technique: it can also be a way of thinking, remembering and transforming ideas into something tangible. Often, the biggest challenge is not in the stitch or the material, but in that initial moment when an emotion, a thought or an intuition does not yet know how to become thread. To accompany this process, we offer you a free download designed as a creative support: a guide with examples and exercises to go from idea to embroidery, step by step, without pressure and with intention. This resource comes from the course Micro embroidery, macro insights, a training that proposes embroidery as a tool for reflection, personal narrative and self-knowledge, working in small format but with great symbolic load. From emotion to design: embroidery as a symbolic language. Embroidery has historically accompanied memory, identity and personal narrative. Beyond the decorative, each stitch can function as a sign, a gesture or a visual word. Embroidering an idea does not mean illustrating it literally, but translating it: choosing what to simplify, what to repeat and what to leave out. The concept of micro embroidery starts precisely from there: working in small formats forces to synthesize, to decide and to connect directly with the essential. In this reduced space, embroidery becomes an intimate language, where texture, rhythm and color tell stories without the need for words. What is included in this free download? The downloadable guide is intended as a practical and flexible resource, both for those new to conceptual embroidery and those looking for new ways to unlock their creative process. Inside you will find: -Inspiring examples of the entire process, from an initial abstract idea or emotion to its translation into a final embroidery. -Guided exercises that help you move from reflection to sketch and from sketch to thread, without demanding "perfect" results. -Templates and spaces for notes, ideal for writing keywords, drawing symbols or recording feelings before you start embroidering. More than a closed manual, the download works as a creative accompaniment: an invitation to explore your own embroidery language.
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Writing

Free download: Brochure for calligraphy beginners

Calligraphy for beginners: free downloadable booklet to start practicing. Calligraphy is much more than just writing beautifully. It is an artistic discipline that combines rhythm, gesture and personal expression. Through line, pressure and hand movement, calligraphy becomes a creative tool that connects mind and body, inviting you to create from calm and mindfulness. For those who are curious about this universe, but do not know where to start, we have prepared a free downloadable resource: a booklet designed especially for beginners who want to explore calligraphy without fear and without previous experience. This material stems from the course Calligraphic Imagination: free your imagination and your hand, and works as a gateway to a free, experimental and accessible practice. Why start with calligraphy?. Getting started with calligraphy has multiple creative and personal benefits. On the one hand, it helps to improve concentration and coordination, since it forces you to pay attention to the stroke and rhythm. On the other hand, it is an excellent way to explore aesthetics manually, without screens or rushing. Calligraphy is also a very inclusive practice. It does not require previous knowledge or complex tools: all you need is paper, a tracing instrument and the desire to experiment. That is why it is especially attractive for people who enjoy drawing, handwriting, lettering or graphic arts, but also for those who are looking for a creative activity to disconnect. In addition, working with the line in a conscious way allows you to let go of expectations and understand error as part of the process. Each stroke is unique, and therein lies much of its beauty. What will you find in this downloadable brochure? The booklet for calligraphy beginners is designed as a space for practice and exploration. Inside you will find pages dedicated to basic stroke exercises, ideal for familiarizing yourself with hand movement and pressure on paper. It also includes open spaces to let go of your hand, experiment with free lines and let your imagination guide the stroke. Beyond repeating shapes, the booklet proposes guided exercises that invite you to go a step beyond formal handwriting, understanding calligraphy as a visual language of its own. The design of the material allows it to be adapted to different rhythms and styles, so that each person can advance in his or her own way and turn it into a personal practice tool.
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Music & Audio

Free download: Exercise to warm up, cool down and develop the voice with a straw.

The vocal straw technique that every creative should know. The voice is one of the most important creative tools for singers, actors, broadcasters, teachers and content creators. Through it we express emotions, communicate ideas and build presence. However, we often forget to take care of it and prepare it properly before and after using it. Therefore, we offer you a free resource designed to help you work on your voice in a simple, safe and effective way: a straw exercise, also known as straw phonation. It is an accessible technique, easy to apply anywhere and widely used in professional vocal training to warm up, cool down and develop the voice without forcing it. In this article we explain what this exercise is, why it works and how to integrate it into your daily vocal routine. [What is the straw exercise and why does it work? The straw exercise is part of the vocal tract semi-occlusion techniques. It consists of emitting sound through a straw while controlling breathing and vocal cord vibration. By partially reducing the air output, a balanced pressure is generated that helps the vocal folds vibrate more efficiently and relaxed. This produces several key benefits: Allows the voice to warm up safely, without harsh impact. Helps release accumulated tension in the neck, jaw and larynx. Improves resonance and vocal control, favoring a more stable sound. Reduces the risk of vocal fatigue after intense sessions of voice use. It is recommended for both beginners and experienced vocalists, and can be used before singing, recording, teaching or also as a cooling down exercise at the end. What's included in the free download The free download includes a clear and visual guide with the exercise explained step by step, so you can practice it without complications. In the resource you will find: Detailed instructions to correctly perform the straw exercise. Specific indications to use it as a warm-up, cool-down or vocal training. Practical advice on recommended duration and frequency. Common mistakes to avoid so as not to strain your voice. It is designed so that you can easily incorporate it into your daily life, even if you only have a few minutes.
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Fashion

Free download: One piece = three looks (Visual guide to reinvent your closet)

Free Guide: Multiply your Wardrobe with Fashion Styling. At a time when fashion is advancing faster and faster, learning to look at our closet with different eyes becomes a creative and conscious act. We don't always need more clothes to dress better: many times, what we lack is perspective, imagination and styling knowledge. That's why from Domestika we offer you the free download "One piece = three looks", a visual guide designed to help you multiply the possibilities of your closet starting from a single garment. This resource stems from the "Fashion styling: design your looks" course, which aims to teach you how to create versatile, personal and coherent combinations without the need to buy more. Why is this guide useful?. The way we combine clothes has a direct impact on both our style and our relationship with consumption. Going for creative styling means: -Reducing impulse purchases and encouraging more responsible consumption. -Make the most of the clothes we already have. -Build a more authentic and durable style. This guide is especially useful if you feel like you always wear the same thing or that your closet "just doesn't cut it". It will help you understand that a single basic garment can be completely transformed depending on how you combine it, the context and the accessories you choose. What's in this download? The guide presents clear and easy-to-apply visual examples where the same piece, such as a white shirt, a black dress or neutral pants, becomes the starting point for three different looks. You will find proposals designed for different situations and moods, such as: -A casual look for everyday wear. -A more formal or professional look. -A creative or personal look, with an unexpected twist. The resource does not seek to impose rules, but to inspire you to start experimenting and see how small changes can completely transform an outfit.
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Writing

Free download: Exercises for practicing lettering with felt-tip pens

Free Exercises to Master Lettering with Brush Pens Lettering is a creative practice that combines drawing, rhythm and stroke control. Although it may seem simple at first glance, mastering it requires training, patience and understanding of the tool. In this process, markers, especially brush pens, become key allies to improve the technique. To accompany you in this practice, we put at your disposal a free download with exercises specifically designed to work lettering with markers. It is a practical, accessible resource designed to help you gain confidence, fluency and control in each letter. Why should you practice lettering with markers? Practicing lettering with markers is one of the most effective ways to train your technique from the ground up. The direct response of the tip to the movement of the hand allows you to understand very clearly how pressure, rhythm and direction influence the final result. Among the main benefits of this practice are the following: -Improved pressure control, essential for achieving harmonic contrasts. -More precision in the stroke and in changes of direction. -Natural understanding of the variation between thin and thick lines. -Development of a more fluid and expressive writing. In addition, it is an ideal practice both for people who are new to lettering and for those who wish to perfect their style and gain consistency in their compositions.
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Writing

Free download: Exercises to work on creativity with Gianni Rodari

Gianni Rodari: The Master of Fantasy and Creativity Applied to Writing To speak of creativity applied to writing and education is, almost inevitably, to speak of Gianni Rodari. Italian journalist, pedagogue and writer, Rodari is considered one of the great references of 20th century children's literature and a key figure in the reflection on imagination as the engine of creative thinking. His approach revolutionized the way of understanding storytelling, playing with words and learning, demonstrating that fantasy is not a luxury or mere entertainment, but a fundamental tool for developing intelligence, freedom of thought and personal expression. With this idea as a starting point, we offer you a free download with a selection of exercises inspired by the creative method of Gianni Rodari, designed to activate the imagination, unlock ideas and enjoy the creative process without fear of error. Who was Gianni Rodari and why is he still relevant today?. Gianni Rodari argued that creativity should be at the heart of education. His most influential work, Grammar of Fantasy, proposes a set of techniques and narrative games to stimulate the imagination through language. Among his best-known ideas are the "fantastic binomial", creative mistakes or the transformation of everyday words into triggers for unexpected stories. For Rodari, inventing stories was not a gift reserved for a few, but a skill that could be trained, shared and enjoyed collectively. Today, his thinking is still very much up to date. In a context where creativity is a key competence both in childhood and in adult life, his proposals are especially valuable for writers, teachers, families and anyone interested in creating through play and curiosity.
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Photography

Free download: How does aperture affect depth of field and light?

Free visual guide to understand the aperture in photography This free resource is part of the pedagogical approach of the course Photography for beginners: professional technical bases, taught by Gerardo Montiel Klint, photographer and teacher with a solid international career. Industrial designer by training and member of the National System of Creators of Mexico, his work is part of collections such as the J. Paul Getty Foundation, the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston or the Museu de Arte Moderna in Rio de Janeiro, among many others. Throughout his career, Gerardo Montiel Klint has combined artistic practice with teaching in different Latin American countries, developing a way of teaching photography based on technical rigor, critical observation and visual sensitivity. In his Domestika course, he guides those who are new to photography to understand the essential fundamentals of the camera and to use them consciously and creatively. One of those key fundamentals is aperture, a setting that directly influences two essential aspects of the image: the amount of light entering the camera and depth of field. To facilitate the understanding of this concept, this free downloadable visual guide is offered, designed to accompany beginners in their first practices and help them make better technical decisions from the start. What is aperture in photography? Aperture refers to the size of the lens diaphragm opening, through which light passes to the camera sensor. It is expressed by values known as f-numbers or f/stop. - A wide aperture (e.g., f/1.8 or f/2.8) allows more light to enter. - A closed aperture (such as f/11 or f/16) limits the amount of light reaching the sensor. Although it may be confusing at first, the smaller the f-number, the larger the aperture. This setting not only affects exposure, but also the way focus is distributed within the image. How does aperture affect depth of field? The depth of field is the area of the image that appears in focus, from the foreground to the background. - With a wide aperture, the depth of field is shallow. The main subject appears sharp while the background is blurred, an effect often used in portraits. - With a closed aperture, the depth of field is increased and more of the scene is in focus, which is common in landscape, architectural or documentary photography. Understanding this relationship allows you to decide which part of the image to emphasize and how to direct the viewer's attention. How does aperture affect light? Aperture also acts as a regulator of light intake: - In low-light situations, a wide aperture helps capture more light without raising the ISO too much. - In sunny exteriors, a closed aperture prevents overexposure. Aperture control must always be understood in relation to the other two elements of the exposure triangle: shutter speed and ISO. Learning to balance them is essential to achieve correct exposures in any situation.
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Craft

Free download: Guide to properly preserve and store your polymer clay

Free guide: Preservation and storage of polymer clay. Working with polymer clay is a versatile and rewarding creative experience, but it also requires some technical care to get good results. The texture, flexibility and color of the clay depend largely on how it is preserved and stored before use. To help you keep your material in perfect condition, at Domestika we provide you with a free downloadable guide with practical tips on how to properly store polymer clay. This resource is part of the course "Create synthetic agate marbled geode jewelry with polymer clay", where the teacher shares her experience working with this material in a professional and conscious way. Taking good care of your tools and materials not only improves the final result, but also makes the creative process more fluid, sustainable and enjoyable. Why is it important to preserve polymer clay well?. Polymer clay is sensitive to factors such as heat, air or contamination with other materials. Poor preservation can lead to: -It hardens prematurely. -Lose elasticity and become difficult to shape -Lose elasticity and become difficult to shape -Lose elasticity and become difficult to shape. -It becomes contaminated with dust or fibers -It becomes contaminated with dust or fibers. -Change its color or texture -Change its color or texture. Keeping it correctly allows you to extend its useful life, avoid unnecessary waste and always work with a material in optimal conditions. In addition, it is a economic saving and a more responsible way of consuming creative resources. What is included in the downloadable guide? This guide has been designed as a clear and easy to consult resource for both beginners and experienced polymer clay artists. Inside you will find: Temperature and humidity recommendations ideal for storing clay without deterioration. Most suitable types of containers according to the brand or the state of the clay (new blocks, mixtures, leftovers). Practical indicators to know when a clay is no longer suitable for working and when it can still be recovered. Work space organization tips, designed for small workshops or work areas at home. The guide functions as a practical reference that you can refer to whenever you need it. Extra tips for working with polymer clay. In addition to the contents of the PDF, here are some useful tips for everyday use: -If the clay is hard, work it slowly with body heat or conditioning tools. -Store ready-made color mixtures tightly wrapped to prevent them from drying out. -Keep clean tools on hand at all times so as not to contaminate the material. -Avoid direct contact with porous surfaces or unprotected paper. Small gestures like these make a big difference in the final result.
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Illustration

Free download: Practical tips for drawing a head in profile

Get a free guide with tips for drawing the head in profile. Drawing a head in profile can seem like one of the great challenges of portraiture. Unlike the frontal view, the profile requires a more precise understanding of the structure of the skull, the actual proportions of the face and the relationship between volumes. However, with a few technical tricks and a good observation base, this angle becomes much more accessible. To help you in this process, we put at your disposal a free download with practical tips for drawing a head in profile. This resource is part of the course Drawing striking portraits with colored pencils and is intended as a clear guide to improve your understanding of portraiture from one of the most expressive points of view. What you'll find in the free download. The downloadable material is designed to accompany you step by step in drawing the human profile. In it you will find: Essential construction tricks, such as the correct placement of the face line, ear, chin and neck. Recommendations for measuring proportions, maintaining visual balance and avoiding deformations. Clear indications to understand the relationship between forehead, nose, lips and chin. Practice suggestions, from quick studio sketches to more detailed and expressive portraits. It is a resource designed for both those who are new to portraiture and those who want to strengthen their technical base.
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Design

Free download: Natural color chromatic circle for textile projects

Chromatic Circle of Natural Pigments for Sustainable Textile Projects.. Working with color is one of the most important decisions in any creative process, and it is even more so when we talk about textile design and sustainable dyes. Color not only defines the aesthetics of a piece: it also communicates values, emotions and a way of relating to the environment. That's why we put at your disposal a free downloadable resource: a chromatic circle based on natural pigments, designed to accompany you in projects where color is born from plants, flowers, roots or minerals. This tool is aimed at textile designers, illustrators, artists, artisans and curious people who want to experiment with color from a more conscious and organic perspective. The author behind this resource. This natural color chromatic circle has been developed by Loana Flores, designer and textile artist specialized in research with organic and discarded materials. Her creative practice stems from a deep concern for sustainability and a constant commitment to the environment, which has led her to question the traditional practices of the fashion industry and explore new languages of artistic expression. Loana is a professor at ESDI and is part of the research group Aru, as well as collaborating with different groups focused on new materials and technologies applied to textiles. Her experience as a teacher and her training in sustainability have led her to reflect on production processes, both from the point of view of materials and techniques as well as the human factor involved in them. With an extensive background in experimentation with textile and non-conventional materials, Loana investigates the creative possibilities of that which has not yet been explored. Her training as a designer has provided her with a deep knowledge of industrial processes, while her approach to textile art and craft techniques has allowed her to overcome limits and develop unique results, where natural color becomes a tool for expression, research and awareness. What is a chromatic circle and why is it key in design?. The chromatic circle is a visual tool that organizes colors according to their relationship to each other. It is traditionally used to understand: Harmonic combinations, such as analogous colors. Contrasts, such as complementary colors. Monochromatic ranges, variations of the same hue. In design and art, the chromatic circle helps to make safer aesthetic decisions, avoiding arbitrary combinations and allowing to convey specific sensations: calm, energy, balance or intensity. It is, in essence, a map for navigating the language of color. What makes this natural chromatic circle special? Unlike conventional chromatic circles based on synthetic dyes or digital colors, this resource is built from natural pigments obtained from elements such as plants, flowers, roots or minerals. This translates into a palette: More organic and harmonious, with less saturated tones. Ideal for textile projects, botanical illustration or sustainable design. Consistent with a philosophy of creation that respects the environment. In addition, natural color has a unique characteristic: it changes. The light, the passage of time and the type of material influence its appearance, making each project alive and unique. This chromatic circle does not seek mathematical perfection, but rather to reflect that richness and variability inherent in nature.
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Marketing

Free download: Guide to types of promotions in TikTok Shop and how to use them to your advantage

Get the most out of TikTok Shop: free guide to strategic promotions. TikTok Shop has established itself as one of the most dynamic sales channels for content creators, microinfluencers and personal brands. Its ability to unite entertainment, community and direct purchasing has opened up new monetization opportunities, but also new challenges: knowing how and when to promote correctly. To help you understand this ecosystem and get the most out of it, we provide you with a free downloadable guide that clearly explains the different types of promotions available in TikTok Shop and how to use them strategically. In this article we tell you what you will find in the resource, why it is important to master these tools and how to apply them to your advantage. What you will find in the downloadable guide? The guide is designed as a practical and straightforward material, ideal both for those who are starting out in TikTok Shop and for those who are already selling and want to optimize their results. Inside you will find: Types of promotions available on TikTok Shop. Direct discounts, coupons, flash sales, cross promotions and other common formulas within the platform. Benefits and objectives of each promotion What each type of action provides: increase conversions, attract new buyers, incentivize repurchase or generate urgency. Real use cases When to use each promotion depending on the type of product, the time of launch or the size of your community. Target profile of the guide Content creators, micro-influencers, digital entrepreneurs and personal brands that want to sell without losing authenticity. The goal is that you can make informed decisions and not apply promotions "just because", but as part of a coherent and sustainable strategy. [Why is it important to know the promotions in TikTok Shop? Promotions are not just a discount tool, but a strategic lever within the TikTok Shop ecosystem. Knowing them allows you to: Increase conversions without relying solely on organic reach. Differentiate yourself from other sellers, offering clear and attractive proposals. Build loyalty among your audience, rewarding those who already trust you. Integrate sales and content, keeping a natural tone and aligned with your creative style. Used well, promotions reinforce your narrative as a creator and boost your monetization capacity.
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Craft

Free download: Guide to breeds and formats of wool fiber for ball felting

The importance of choosing the right wool for wet felting. b]Free download: Guide to breeds and wool fiber formats for ball felting. The importance of choosing the right wool for wet felting. The wet felting in ball is a craft technique that combines tradition, patience and experimentation. Through water, soap and movement, the wool is transformed into a compact and resistant surface, capable of becoming unique pieces such as bags, decorative objects or textile accessories. However, one of the most important and often underestimated aspects of felting is the choice of wool fiber. Not all wools react the same to the process: their origin, thickness and format directly influence the final result. To help you better understand this key point, we provide you with a free downloadable guide that is part of the course Creating custom wet felted bags with advanced techniques. What you will find in this free downloadable guide? This guide is intended as a practical and clear resource for those who want to deepen their knowledge of the raw material before they start felting. Inside you will find: Sheep breeds and characteristics of their fiber. Information on the thickness, softness and felting behavior of different breeds, ideal for understanding which wool is best suited to each project. Processed wool formats. Differences between tops, batts, rovings and other common formats, with indications on when and how to use them. Selection tips according to the project. Practical recommendations for choosing the right fiber according to the type of piece, the desired finish and the level of experience. The goal is for you to have a clear and accessible vision to make informed decisions from the first step.
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Craft

Free download: Stencil "Garden" for punch needle

Free Download: Stencil "Garden" for Punch Needle on Domestika The punch needle has become one of the favorite textile techniques within the creative community. Its accessible nature, leisurely pace and the ability to create pieces full of texture and color have made it especially popular with those looking to reconnect with the handmade and handcrafted. Part of its charm lies in the creative freedom it offers, but also in the possibility of relying on patterns and stencils that facilitate the process and allow you to focus on the most important thing: experimenting with stitches, volumes and chromatic combinations. Therefore, from Domestika we offer you the free download of the stencil "Garden", a resource designed to help you advance in your punch needle projects without starting from scratch and with a design inspired by nature. What will you find in this free stencil? The stencil "Garden" is an illustrated pattern that combines organic shapes and plant motifs, evoking leaves, flowers and balanced natural compositions. Its style is clean and versatile, making it ideal for both decorative projects and more experimental pieces. Details of the stencil: - Design inspired by nature, with clear and well-defined shapes. - Balanced level of detail, perfect for practicing advanced stitches without being complex. - Easy-to-use format, designed to be easily transferred to different types of fabrics. Thanks to its versatility, this pattern works very well in projects such as cushions, textile paintings, tote bags, decorative tapestries or other handmade objects where the punch needle is the protagonist.
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Craft

Free download: step-by-step guide to create natural pigments sustainably

Create Natural Pigments: Domestika's Free Guide to Sustainable Creativity. In recent years, sustainable creative processes have gone from being a trend to a necessity. More and more artists, designers and creators are looking for ways of working that respect the environment, reduce environmental impact and recover a more conscious relationship with materials. In this context, creating natural pigments from vegetable and mineral elements presents itself as a fascinating and accessible alternative. Not only does it make it possible to reduce the use of industrial dyes, but it also connects with ancestral techniques that have accompanied humanity for centuries. For those who want to get started on this path, Domestika offers a free downloadable guide that explains step by step how to obtain natural pigments from home or workshop, becoming a practical tool to explore color from an ecological and creative perspective. Why go for natural pigments? The use of natural pigments brings both environmental and creative benefits. From an ecological point of view, vegetable or mineral dyes stand out for their biodegradability, lower toxicity and renewable origin. Unlike many industrial dyes, they do not generate aggressive chemical residues or pollute the water during their production or application process. But the value of these pigments goes beyond sustainability. Working with materials extracted from roots, leaves, bark or flowers adds an emotional and aesthetic dimension to the creative process. Each color has a history, an origin and a unique variability, making each piece unrepeatable. Furthermore, this practice aligns with the principles of responsible and circular design, where materials are maximized and the process matters as much as the end result. What will you find in this step-by-step guide? The downloadable guide is intended as an intuitive, clear and practical resource, ideal for both beginners and curious creators who want to expand their knowledge. Inside you will find: - A list of accessible materials, such as vegetables, roots, bark and other easy-to-find natural elements. - Detailed instructions for color extraction, explained in a simple and progressive way. - Suggestions for the application of pigments on different supports: textiles, paper, yarns or natural fibers. - Tips for preserving pigments and experimenting with shade variations according to the process, the mordant or the support used. This is a guide designed to experiment without fear, encourage observation and discover how color changes according to the origin and treatment of the material. Creative applications of natural pigments. Natural pigments offer an enormous range of creative possibilities. Some of their most common applications include: - Botanical illustration, where the natural origin of the color reinforces the visual discourse. - Textile printing and dyeing, creating unique pieces with their own identity. - Sustainable product design, from accessories to decorative objects. - Artistic journaling and slow art, where the manual and conscious process is an essential part of the work. These practices are directly connected to the slow art movement, which proposes to create with time, attention and respect for materials, reinforcing the link between art, ecology and culture.
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Culinary

Free download: Quick guide to brain food

Brain nutrition: Domestika's guide to boost your creativity. Creativity, concentration and mental clarity do not depend on inspiration alone. Our physical well-being and especially the way we nourish our bodies directly influences our ability to think fluently, make decisions and stay focused. Brain nutrition thus becomes an essential tool for those who make a living from their creativity. Feeding the brain with the right nutrients allows it to function with energy, balance and emotional stability. That's why at Domestika we have created a Quick guide to brain food, a free and practical resource to accompany you in your daily creative life. Why nutrition influences creativity and concentration? The brain consumes about 20% of the body's total energy. To maintain key functions - memory, focus, emotional management, problem solving or idea generation - it needs specific nutrients. Certain foods can boost: - mood, - mental clarity, - memory, - creative fluency, - the ability to reduce stress. In the same way, a poor diet can lead to mental fatigue, difficulty concentrating or creative blocks. What you eat is also part of your creative process.
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Wellness

Reconnect with your inner child: free download to explore your creativity from the root.

Unlock your Creativity: Reconnect with your Inner Child with Our Free Download. As we grow up, we tend to leave behind the spontaneity, playfulness and curiosity that marked our childhood. Responsibilities and the fast pace of adult life take us away from that essential part of ourselves that we once created freely, without fear or judgment. Reconnecting with the inner child is not nostalgia: it is a powerful tool to unlock creativity, heal emotions and recover authenticity. That's why at Domestika we have created a free download that invites you to start this journey through reflective writing, emotional exploration and self-listening exercises. What does it mean to reconnect with your inner child? From a creative approach, the inner child represents that part of you that holds your purest creative impulses, your first intuitions and the free way you explored the world. In the early years are hidden clues about: - what you loved, - what you feared, - what you dreamed about, - and what made you feel alive. Revisiting these memories with kindness can be profoundly transformative. It's not about going back, it's about reclaiming inner freedom to create from a more authentic place.
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Illustration

Free download: 10 essential tips for creating memorable characters

Create Characters that Come Alive: 10 Essential Domestika Tips. Character creation is one of the fundamental pillars in illustration, animation, graphic narrative and children's literature. A well-constructed character is much more than an attractive drawing: it is a mix of personality, emotions, internal coherence and own story. It is the heart of any visual story. It's not enough to define physical traits: a memorable character is born from what he feels, what he desires, what he fears and how he relates to his world. To help you develop them, at Domestika we've prepared a free download with 10 practical tips, inspired by the course "Children's illustration techniques with sketchbook". Why it is so important to develop solid characters. Characters are the gateway to the narrative universe. They allow the audience to identify, get excited, learn or have fun. In children's illustration, the character is a bridge between the story and the imagination of the little ones. A well-developed character can support an entire series, an illustrated story or a personal project. They are the soul of the story and the reason why a story remains in the memory. What's included in this free download The resource brings together the 10 essential tips for designing cohesive, expressive, and unique characters: - Physical traits with intent - Defined personality - Movement and expressions - Relationship to their environment - Objectives and conflicts - Appropriate color palette - Distinctive silhouette - Emotions and vulnerabilities - Coherence in style - Life-giving details Also includes: - Exercises to apply each tip in your sketchbook. - Recommendations for exploring different styles - Ideas for developing characters from drawing or writing
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Writing

Free download: Inspiration questionnaire for personal storytelling

Personal Storytelling: Unlock your Memory and Find the Stories that Connect. Personal storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for understanding who we are, communicating authentically and transforming memories into stories that connect. Through storytelling we make sense of what we have experienced, discover patterns, recognize emotions and find a thread that links our past to our present. However, many people want to tell their story and do not know where to start. There is a lack of clarity, it is difficult to go deeper or it is difficult to identify memories with narrative potential. To accompany you in this process, at Domestika we have created a free download: a questionnaire designed to unlock your memory, awaken your creativity and help you find the stories that live inside you. This article guides you through its contents and shows you how to use it to start or strengthen your storytelling practice. Why it is important to work on your personal storytelling. Storytelling doesn't just belong to writing: it's used to present ideas, communicate projects, connect with others and build identity. Knowing how to tell who you are - and why - is valuable in a literary text, an interview, a portfolio or a personal conversation. Self-knowledge is the basis of storytelling. Our experiences, contradictions, emotions and memories are narrative raw material. Storytelling transforms common experiences into universal stories capable of resonating with other people. What's included in the free download The resource brings together questions designed to trigger your memory and emotions: - Deep, intimate and creative questions to explore your biography. - Indicators to detect key moments, learnings and conflicts. - Guides to connect with sensory memories, important links or decisions that marked your life. - Spaces to transform answers into stories or narrative fragments.
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Design

Free download: guide to create your own substrates and care for your plants like a professional

Master the art of the perfect substrate: free guide to take care of your plants like a pro The substrate is the heart of any plant. Beyond light and watering, it is the base where roots develop, nutrients are stored and the balance between water and oxygen is maintained. Choosing or preparing a good substrate can make the difference between a plant that simply "survives" and a small ecosystem that thrives in a healthy way. Whether you grow houseplants, succulents, aromatic plants or an urban garden, knowing how to create the right substrate allows you to adapt the mix to the real needs of each species. That's why we at Domestika have prepared a free download: a PDF inspired by the course "Designing green spaces for your home". A practical guide to understand the soil, customize it and take care of your plants like a pro. What is a substrate and why is it so important. The substrate is the mixture where the roots grow. Its main function is to retain water and nutrients, but also to allow air to circulate freely. This balance is essential for plants to breathe, absorb minerals and grow strong. A poorly chosen substrate can cause: - Excess moisture → fungus and rot. - Lack of aeration → suffocated roots. - Nutrient imbalances → yellow leaves, poor growth or lack of resistance. Knowing the materials and proportions is key to healthy and sustainable growth. What you will find in this free download. The guide includes: - Types of substrates for indoor, succulent, aromatic, urban garden and tropical plants. - Essential components: peat, coconut fiber, perlite, vermiculite, compost, coarse sand, bark.... - Recommended proportions to balance humidity and aeration. - Tips for reusing used substrates and enriching them. - Recommendations to keep the mix fresh, light and free of fungi. An indispensable guide to creating and maintaining a sustainable green environment.
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Culinary

Free download: step-by-step guide to make moldable chocolate like a professional

Moldable chocolate step by step: the free guide every creative pastry chef needs. Moldable chocolate has become one of the essential techniques in creative pastry making and artistic modeling. Its versatility allows you to transform a simple chocolate mixture into figures, toppers, edible decorations and even small sculptures with a professional finish. And the best part: with the right recipe, anyone can learn how to prepare it at home. That's why at Domestika we have created a free download: a complete guide to prepare moldable chocolate from scratch, inspired by the course "Chocolate modeling: create animal toppers". In it you will find the recipe, tricks and key steps to master this delicious and creative technique. What is moldable chocolate and why you should learn how to make it. Moldable chocolate-also called plastic chocolate or modelling chocolate-combines chocolate and glucose syrup (or honey) to create a flexible, soft, modelable, clay-like mass. Unlike fondant or marzipan, modelling chocolate: - Has a more natural flavor. - It offers a more pleasant texture. - It allows realistic details to be modeled more easily. - It retains shapes better and offers a cleaner finish. Its applications are wide: toppers for cakes, flowers, decorative figures, sweet sculptures or personalized decorations.
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Illustration

Free download: guide to unlocking your creative confidence and reconnecting with inspiration

Unlock Your Creative Confidence: Domestika's Free and Complete Guide to Overcome Creative Block and Bring Your Boldest Ideas to Life. Creative confidence is the silent engine that drives any artistic or personal process. It doesn't matter if you illustrate, write, design, cook or simply enjoy exploring new ideas: creating requires daring. However, even the most experienced artists face moments of doubt, fear of error or blocks that seem to dampen inspiration. To accompany you in those moments, at Domestika we have created a free resource: a practical guide to unlock your creative confidence, inspired by the course "Food journaling: to remember flavors and recipes". This approach uses senses, emotions and everyday memories as a gateway to creativity, helping you reconnect with your intuition without pressure or judgment. Why it is important to work on creative confidence. Creativity isn't just a spark of brilliant ideas: it's the ability to trust that you can shape, explore and transform them. And that confidence can falter for many reasons: - The fear of judgment, your own or others. - The comparison with what others do. - The pressure for perfection or to obtain an impeccable result from the first attempt. When these feelings appear, they can paralyze even the most talented profiles. Working on creative confidence implies going back to the origin: enjoying the process, allowing oneself to play, make mistakes, test and discover. It is a journey that is more emotional than technical, and a habit that can be cultivated day by day. What you'll find in this free guide. This guide is designed as an intimate, comfortable and accessible space to reconnect with yourself and your imagination. Inside you will find: - Exercises to reconnect with the senses, especially taste, smell and sensory memory. - Creative dynamics based on intuition, nostalgia and emotion, without strict rules. - Tips to identify your blockages and address them from curiosity instead of demand. - Pages to reflect on your relationship with inspiration, the creative process and the stories you keep inside you. It is not a guide to "make perfect", but to open space, take a deep breath and remember that creativity feeds on the everyday.
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Illustration

Free download: exercises to practice watercolor basics

Download a free guide with watercolor exercises to practice gradients, blending and basic techniques, ideal for beginners and illustration lovers.. Watercolor is one of the most expressive and versatile painting techniques that exist. Its transparency, fluidity and ability to create unique atmospheres make it an ideal tool for both beginner artists and experienced illustrators. However, mastering it requires an understanding of how water, pigment and paper interact. Before venturing into complex compositions, it is essential to work on the fundamentals of watercolor: water control, transparency, blending and layering. Domestika provides you with a free resource that brings together essential exercises to improve your technique, gain confidence and develop a more natural handling of the brush. Below, we tell you what this guide includes, how to take advantage of it and what steps you can follow to continue growing in your artistic practice. Why practicing the basics is key in watercolor. Watercolor is a living technique: every stroke and every drop of water influences the final result. Before focusing on complete illustrations, it is important to understand how pigment behaves on paper and what changes are produced by varying humidity. Practicing the basics allows: - Understand how colors expand and control edges. - Become familiar with transparency and layering. - Learn to balance water and pigment according to the desired effect. - Gain fluency, confidence and a more fluid style.
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Craft

Free download: tips guide for scanning and storing your collages

Learn how to digitize and preserve your collages with this free guide from Domestika. Scan, organize and store your works like a pro. Collage is a fascinating artistic technique that combines analog and digital materials to create unique compositions, full of texture, color and meaning. Each fragment pasted on paper tells a different visual story. But once you finish your works, digitizing them correctly is essential: it allows you to preserve their quality, share them online or even include them in editorial projects and digital portfolios. To help you in this process, Domestika offers a free resource: a practical guide with professional tips for scanning and storing your collages, ensuring that every detail remains faithful to the original. Why it is important to scan your collages correctly Scanning your artwork is not only a technical issue, but a way to preserve your artwork. Here are some reasons why doing it right makes a difference: - High-quality preservation: prevents deterioration of paper or physical materials. - Digital versatility: it will allow you to use your collages in portfolios, social networks, prints or mockups. - Visual fidelity: ensures that colors, textures and details remain faithful to the original piece. What this free resource includes. The downloadable guide brings together a selection of technical and practical tips for you to digitize your works with professional results. In it you will find: - Recommendations on ideal resolution, color and file format (TIFF or PNG). - Tips on how to light and position the work to avoid shadows and reflections. - Physical storage methods to protect your collages from dust, humidity or discoloration. - Keys to create an organized digital library, with your works classified and safe.
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Design

Free download: color proofing template for your stationery designs

Optimize your printed designs with this free color proofing template. Adjust tones and make sure you get professional results. Color is one of the pillars of graphic design. In stationery projects -such as invitations, cards or catalogs- color accuracy is key to maintain visual coherence and convey a brand's identity. However, the colors you see on screen are rarely reproduced exactly the same when printed. That's why color proofing before producing any printed piece is an essential step. It helps you avoid surprises, adjust tones and ensure that the final result accurately reflects your original design. At Domestika we want to make this process easier for you: we offer you a free color proof template, editable and ready to print, that will allow you to compare color values, calibrate your printer and optimize the quality of your stationery projects. Why color proofing is essential in graphic design Digital devices and printers interpret colors differently. A bright red on your monitor may look duller on paper, or a deep blue may take on greenish hues depending on the type of ink or media. Color proofing allows you to: - Adjust tones, contrast and saturation before printing en masse. - Prevent waste of materials and ensure consistent results. - Optimize color management, especially when working with different papers or finishes. Color proofing allows you to: - Adjust tones, contrast and saturation before mass printing. - Prevent waste of materials and ensure consistent results. - Optimize color management, especially when working with different papers or finishes. What's included in this free template Domestika's color proofing template has been designed to suit the needs of graphic designers, illustrators and creatives looking for accuracy and efficiency. Inside the file you will find: - An editable document for printing and comparing different color values. - Annotation spaces to record combinations, Pantone references or HEX/RGB codes. - A design adaptable to different types of paper and finishes, so that you can evaluate how colors behave on each material. - b]A visual guide for calibrating printers or adjusting inks manually. With this tool, you can perform your own professional proofs without relying on expensive external services. How to use the template step by step. Download the free file from Domestika. Open the document in your usual design software: Illustrator, Photoshop or InDesign. Insert your palettes or base colors in the designated areas. Print a proof on different types of paper and see how the tones change depending on texture or brightness. Adjust values until you find the most faithful version of your original design. This process will allow you to develop more accurate color criteria and improve the quality of your printed work. From resource to complete course. If you want to take your mastery of color and visual composition to another level, we recommend the Minimalist Graphic Design for Stationery course.
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Illustration

Free download: Photoshop brushes for creating risographic textured illustrations

Reproduce the charm of risography in your digital illustrations with this free collection of brushes for Photoshop.. Free Photoshop brushes with risograph texture. Risography is an artistic printing technique that has conquered illustrators and designers around the world for its unique aesthetics: grainy textures, vibrant colors and slight imperfections that evoke the analog within the digital environment. Recreating this effect in programs such as Photoshop requires specific tools capable of simulating the ink, grain and overlays characteristic of traditional risography. To help you achieve it, Domestika offers an exclusive free resource: a folder with a selection of Photoshop brushes inspired by this technique, created and used in the course "Risography for illustrators: from digital design to print art".". With these brushes you will be able to give your digital works a tactile and authentic texture, perfect for projects with handmade personality. Why use brushes with risographic texture? The magic of risography lies in its intentional imperfection.. Each misalignment, smudge or color variation generates a warm, human feel that contrasts with the precision of digital design. Using brushes that mimic this technique allows you to: - Recreate the analog look within a digital workflow. - Bring character and visual depth to your illustrations. - Play with layers, transparencies, and hatching to achieve rich and expressive results. This type of brushes is ideal for artists and illustrators who want to maintain a handmade essence in their creations, without giving up the flexibility of digital tools. What's included in this free resource The downloadable file includes a curated collection of Photoshop brushes (.abr) designed specifically to emulate the risographic finish. Inside you will find: - Ink and grain textures, perfect for simulating the porosity of printed paper. - Noise and gradient brushes, that provide tonal nuances and depth. - Shading, fill and expressive stroke tools, that reproduce the irregularities of manual printing. - Brushes for color overlays, ideal for imitating the layers of real risography. All files are ready to install and use directly in your digital projects, without the need of previous adjustments.
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Craft

Free download: wood finishing guide for your creative projects

Learn how to enhance and protect your pieces with the best wood finishes. Download this free practical guide and take your creations to the next level. Free guide: master wood finishes and enhance the natural beauty of your pieces. Working with wood is much more than a technique: it is an art form that combines precision, aesthetic sensibility and respect for a living material. Whether in pyrography, woodworking or craft projects, mastering wood finishes is essential to achieve long-lasting and visually stunning results. Each type of finish has its own character: some protect, some beautify, and some achieve both. However, applying them correctly requires knowledge of their properties, textures and reactions to time and light. That's why Domestika offers a free downloadable guide, ideal for artists and craftsmen who want to understand and master the different wood finishes. This resource will help you choose the right treatment for each piece and maximize its natural beauty. Why finishes are key in woodworking. Wood is a living material that breathes, changes and evolves with the environment. Therefore, a proper finish not only improves its appearance, but also protects it against factors such as humidity, sun or the wear and tear of time. A good finish can be the difference between an amateur piece and a professional work. In addition, it directly influences the texture, gloss and final tone of the work. Knowing its types and how to apply them will allow you to achieve uniform, elegant and durable surfaces..
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Design

Free accounting management template for creatives

Organize your finances easily with our free accounting management template. Ideal for creatives, freelancers and personal projects. Free download: accounting management template for your creative projects. Creativity has no timetables, but accounting does. If you work in the creative field, you know that keeping an orderly control of your finances can be as important as a good idea. Managing income, expenses and budgets with clarity can make the difference between a profitable project and a disorganized one. [That's why at Domestika we have created a free accounting management template, especially designed for designers, illustrators, photographers, advertisers and freelance professionals. With this tool you will be able to organize your accounts, analyze results and plan your next projects in a clear, professional and uncomplicated way. What does this template include? - Income and expense register: easily classify your operations by client or project type. - b]Automatic summary: visualize your balances and detect opportunities for improvement. - Monthly control: manage your cash flow and financial goals by month. - b]Available in three languages: Spanish, English and Portuguese. A simple, complete and adaptable tool for any type of creative project. Why it is useful for you This template is designed for creative industry professionals who are looking for a practical way to manage their finances without resorting to complex accounting software. With it you will be able to: - Save time in your administrative tasks. - Have a global vision of the profitability of your projects. - Make informed financial decisions based on real data. Because good management not only improves your numbers, it also gives you more freedom to focus on what really matters: creating. How to use the template. Download the ZIP file with the template: U3-03_Gestion contable_ES-EN-PT.zip Open the document in the language of your choice. Customize the fields according to your projects. Start recording your movements and see how your financial organization improves.
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Illustration

Explore your line: line exercises to unleash your creativity

Discover a free guide of line exercises to loosen up your hand, gain confidence and fill your sketchbook with rhythm and movement.. Every illustration begins with a line. A simple gesture capable of conveying rhythm, movement and emotion. Practicing with lines not only improves technique: it also frees the mind and connects with the creative process. In this article you will discover how line exercises help you gain confidence, develop a freer style and enjoy drawing as a form of visual meditation. In addition, you can download a free resource from Domestika with practical exercises to experiment with in your sketchbook. Why practicing with lines transforms your drawing. Line is the basis of all drawing: it defines shapes, suggests textures and conveys movement. Practicing with different types of line allows you to improve precision, reduce blockages and connect with your own visual language. More than a technique, drawing lines is a form of creative meditation: each stroke reflects your energy and your emotional state. What's included in the free resource The Domestika downloadable file includes: - Guided exercises to explore different types of line: continuous, dashed, expressive, gestural, among others. - Practical suggestions to vary rhythm, pressure and direction. - Creative proposals to fill your sketchbook with spontaneous compositions. - Interactive spaces in the PDF to practice directly or reinterpret the exercises in your sketchbook.
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