Hi, I’m Susie — the retro-loving gal behind Retro Susie.
I’ve had a love affair with paper for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I’d sketch out dresses for my paper dolls, cut them out, and lose myself in a world of patterns, glue, and imagination. I looked forward to back-to-school season not just for the fresh start — but for the pure joy of new pens, crayons, and crisp paper. That time of year always felt full of promise, creativity, and potential. I’ve just always loved paper — the textures, the colors, the endless possibilities.
Fast-forward to today, and I’m still playing with paper — just with a lot more glue sticks, a few digital design tools, and a sweet little shop to share what I make.
Retro Susie is where I create and sell handmade joy journals (aka junk journals) and vintage-inspired digital downloads — a collection of what brings me joy and what I hope brings joy to you too. Whether it’s a printable paper pack, a new freebie, a handmade journal, or a cozy how-to on YouTube, everything here is made with love and a little retro flair.
📝 On The Blog
In 2025, I started writing more regularly on my blog — a space where I explore creativity, curiosity, and the messy magic of working with both glue sticks and AI. I share honest reflections, behind-the-scenes peeks into my process, and thoughts on how tech and crafting intersect in unexpected ways.
You’ll find stories, ideas, tips, and the occasional rant — all written from the heart.
👉 Visit the Blog »
🎥 On YouTube
I started my channel, Retro Susie on YouTube, to record my creative process — for my kids, for myself, and for anyone who might want to learn or be inspired. I experiment a lot (as many of us do), and I’ve learned that documenting is half the magic. I’ve also benefited from so many generous tutorials over the years, and this is my way of giving back.
I post:
- Junk journal tutorials
- DIYs & crafty experiments
- A few hauls (because, let’s be real, they’re fun!)
- Digital design tips for fellow creatives
🛍️ In the Shop
You’ll find all of that in my Retro Susie shop — printable digital kits, handmade journals I call “Joy Journals” (because that’s what they give me while making them), and the occasional one-of-a-kind piece of ephemera. I’m currently focused on digital downloads, but you’ll also see physical products pop up from time to time.
When I’m not crafting or designing, I’m soaking up love from my four amazing adult kids, spending time with my elderly pug Kiwi (15 and still sassy), and caring for our rescued cat family: Luna, Odin, and Osiris.
I’m a retired Mac Genius who still loves troubleshooting tech, mixing retro charm with modern tools, and finding magic in everyday creativity. I believe joy lives in the little things — a pressed flower, a perfectly worn vintage paper, a quiet moment with a glue stick in hand.
Thanks for stopping by — I’m so glad you’re here.
Let’s make something beautiful together. 🌸
Reach out through my contact page if you’d like to say hi or have any questions.