#if anyone that sees this wants to buy stuff like this from me or commission them or smth send an ask or smth

[hiccuppop]

OMG!!!!!!

Little Dipper

[psi-hate]

alright, this really, really sucks but i have an unfortunate update that occurred regarding my recent living situation.

not to get into too much detail for the sake of my friend's privacy, but she and her fiance offered to take me in after i was suddenly on the verge of homelessness this february. i accepted their offer and moved in thanks to everyone's support, and for the last few months, i felt comfortable and capable in getting myself together for the first time in years.

however, despite what i assumed were all positive developments, things started getting a lot more complicated. i become exposed to the treatment and stress my friend has been suffering from her fiance over many years, from being spied on via tracking apps, in-house cameras, a ridiculous jealousy complex and all sorts of other personal issues.

her friends and i have been supporting her over the years, but i didn't realize how bad it was until i started to be subjected to it as well.

my friend decided to break up with her fiance last week, finally standing up for herself but still wanting to remain friends and live as normally as they could, they still had the house and their cats and such. her now ex-fiance hasn't taken kindly to this and has been pretty passively hostile towards us, and has started to take it out on me.

she started stalking my tumblr to find things to get mad at, and checking the cameras when i leave my room. i've not felt comfortable to leave my room in well over a week other than to get some food or use the bathroom in the middle of the night, the tension has been a nightmare.

my friend and i decided we needed to move out, especially me since i'm technically not a tenant and we suspect she's going to call the police on me to get me out of here. my friend will be going to her parents at a later point, but i unfortunately need to leave within a couple weeks as i've already been "indirectly" threatened.

this is sort of a nightmare, and i feel so horrible things turned out this way for my friend. i tried my best, but this feels out of my control. trying to keep the peace has only made things worse, and we think it's best for me to book it before i get blind-sighted.

i suspect if her ex-fiance sees this, she'll retaliate, but at this point i've already made my peace with that.

unfortunately, i won't be able to bring much of my stuff with me, i only have enough money for a ticket to move in with another close friend as an emergency.

i don't have enough to buy any checked bags for most my belongings, especially my desktop pc, so once i move i'm very likely going to not be able to do my art or anything until i can afford a laptop eventually. i'm really sorry to those waiting on any commissions, i'll try my best to get them done before i move. i feel so horrible about this.

if anyone is able to help, i'd really appreciate it. even just a reblog is more than i can really ask. i hesitate to make this request because i feel like i just asked for it only for it to all be wasted once this exploded in my face. but i've been encouraged to reach out, and i apologize if this is too much. my ko-fi:

thank you so much for supporting me so far. i don't want to disappoint anyone anymore. i am so scared but i still want to keep trying.

[dailypokemoncrochet]

I feel like I'm in a different world from other artists and can't connect because so much of what I see is professional artists in the sense that it is their Job and there's their portfolio and shop link and commission prices and patreon and buy their art so they can pay rent and eat this month and on here if you don't reblog then you're killing them and if you only like the post you might as well just give them a big middle finger and on other places it's retweet repost for visibility or else you're condemning them to death (no engagement) and there's so much trend chasing and algorithm posting and here's their name (real) and face (conventionally attractive) alongside their art (product) and here are dozens of carefully edited videos of their process and behind the scenes and a link to their paypal (legal name) (business name) and reassuring posts about Make the art you want and be proud and don't let anyone tell you you can't do x technique (which actually seems quite antithetical to the rest of the stuff they do) and idk??

I'm so very far removed from all of that. And as someone who mainly lurks online but has a very extensive art project and yeah is an artist because of that, it's weirdly alienating that most of what I see labeled as being an artist is tailored to a highly commercialized and specific kind of personality and lifestyle. Doesn't usually bother me, but sometimes it kinda sucks when all of those super relatable artist posts and memes go around and I just absolutely do not relate at all.

[so-i-did-this-thing]

Where do you find all your neat little trinkets and such? Is it just accumulated over the years, or do you use marketplace, or antique malls, commissioning stuff? I want to add more to my home, but I don't really know where to look outside of hyper specific ebay searches.

I guess, more succinctly, how do you Find Things?

Heya! Finding cool stuff is a lot about doing just enough research. I'll show you how my mind works.

Let's say I saw this cute cat in the wild. I want to buy it, maybe see if it's something fun to collect.

If I use Google lens on the photo, I get some promising results - this is something that was mass-produced!

Let's click on a result.

I've learned something! This ceramic is called "redware" and the figure is from the 1950s. So, off to another web search.

Oh! A maker name! "Shafford." This will make future searches easier. And look - there are other related cats - it looks like as various household items! (If you further researched the original cat, you'd also learn it is a tape measure and was made in Japan.)

Now, let's say you don't have a photo to start with, or just a vague idea of something you might want. Let's hop to Facebook marketplace and see if anyone is selling cute ceramic black cats.

All of these results could go down their own research paths, but again, I'm using the example of the Shafford cats.

Armed with some knowledge, it takes just a few searches to find an impressive haul. Honestly, if that wasn't 5 hrs away from me, I'd buy that lot in a heartbeat, selling/gifting what I don't want.

For future searches, you now have two paths:

Search for things using basic terminology to find sellers who aren't super knowledgeable. So, something like "vintage kitchen cabinet". You might luck out and find a seller who just wants the thing gone, they don't know its value, and it might be a steal for you!

Search again using the specific terms you have picked up from your research. So, "jelly cabinet." This will get you in front of listing from experts, where you are likely to find a better quality item at the current market price.

That is how I found this for my kitchen, btw.

Learn the common synonyms and mispellings. Bookcase, bookshelf. Captain's desk, secretary desk.

Click on seller stores and profiles to see related items. As you research, you will start to stumble across other items and figure out your sense of taste. You will find cool shit you never knew existed. You will learn new search terms as you pick up bits of history. You will also start stumbling across online speciality sites, or local resources, like antique shops and vintage fairs. You might learn what estate sales are, or about auctions open to the public. You start developing a habit of scouting out shops and sales when you're in a new town. You put big fairs and small swap meets on your calendar. You build relationships with contemporary artists who make things you like.

My sense of style is something I've actively been refining for decades now, and it isn't just vintage tchotchkes. I do this for clothing, for the crafting I'm into, etc. Curiosity and style go hand in hand and the best part is that your eye and research chops will only improve, even if you're just window shopping.

I hope this helps!

[your-local-hoemie]

HEAR ME OUT SINCE ITS CHILDES BDAY TODAY RIGHT

What if we spend the entire day with him and then when we come home, we give him another surprise *wink wink* (pls tell me yk what i mean 😭😭 i dont know how to say these things withoit feeling awkward)

NS!FW. 18+ ONLY

AAAAA I’M SO SORRY THIS IS LATE!!! I’VE BEEN HIBERNATING!!!

JUST LIKE PRETEND IT’S STILL HIS BIRTHDAY DHXJHCIXJD

My fingers went nYoooooom! Also don’t feel awkward! I hear you and I shall feed you the crumbs of my brain basement

At least I hope this is what you mean otherwise I’m so sorry for your eyeballs-

warnings: ns!fw, Oral spice, lots of spicy words (I went all in for this one aaAAA), swearing, gn!reader, not proof-read.

Characters: Tartaglia (Childe is the worst name for spice istfggggg)

It had been a busy week preparing for the big day.

You could of been doing commissions, relaxing with friends, enjoying the beach and the warm summer sea, but no-

You had been practically ripping your hair out planning for you boyfriends birthday.

Tartaglia was a very… interesting character-

You knew he’d love whatever you got him but the thing is, nothing felt special.

He had the ability to buy anything he wanted, whenever he wanted. So trying to find something that would impress the ginger was becoming more challenging than his impromptu sparring “dates”.

That was until you caught sight of a small, very discreet looking stall hidden behind some crates near Liyue’s harbour that sold silk clothing that definitely wasn’t intended to stay on for long.

And so began your special birthday surprise~

“There’s my birthday boy!”

Running over to Tartaglia, you flung your arms tight around his waist.

The day In question had finally arrived and so had your mildly insane but lovable boyfriend.

“And there’s my favourite comrade! Didn’t miss me too much now did you?”

Smiling wildly, you rolled your eyes at him before the two of you started catching up on what he had been doing the past few days that he was away.

As a few minutes turned into hours, you both talked and walked around Liyue, visiting your favourite spots and giving him a giant whale plushie that you had spent the last few days seeing together, along with a extremely romantic dinner at the Liuli Pavilion.

When I say romantic I mean romantic-

The table was set with candles and silk flower petals, and not a chopstick to be seen, much to the gingers relief.

“You know, you’ve really impressed me this time. I don’t think I could of asked for a better birthday even if I tried”

“Good thing it’s not over then~”

“Not over? Have my irresistible charms finally decided to accept that sparring challenge you’ve been avoiding~”

Rolling your eyes, you promptly paid the bill before you decide to change your mind about the entire plan.

“No, you know I wouldn’t walk out of that alive. Now just shush and follow me”

Taking his hand, you eagerly pull him along in the direction to your home, not paying attention to the endless pestering of your boyfriend who’s curiosity was doing more than struggling to stay contained.

“Is it a surprise party?? Oh wait, did you kidnap someone for me!? Babe you’re so swe-”

“SHH! No I didn’t kidnap anyone and you should know not to say stuff like that while outside!”

Shaking your head in frustration, you finally reached your door.

Quickly unlocking it, you pulled Tartaglia in with a small grunt before closing it behind you.

“Alright, stay right there. I’ll be back now- and don’t get into trouble!”

“Huh? Wait- where are you going?”

With a giggle, you gave him a kiss on his cheek before running to your bedroom and closing the door.

Laying out on your bed was the outfit you got earlier that week.

Without hesitation, you pulled your clothes off and threw them to the floor, quickly putting on the outfit, albeit with some mild confusion to how it went on.

It was made from a delicate silk, framed with lace and ribbons that hung down your body, perfectly framing your figure.

Giving yourself a quick look over in the mirror, you took a deep breath and opened the door, peeking outside just incase your boyfriend was waiting outside.

Once you found the coast clear, you took a step out as started walking to the living room where you could hear him humming while obviously nosing around your belongings.

“Finally. you were taking foreve…r-”

Dropping a book he had been flipping through while waiting for you, Tartaglia’s expression shifted from shocked to embarrassed, then to a dangerously sly grin as the ginger took in your appearance.

“We’ll, well, well~ is it just the weather or did the room suddenly get extremely hotter”

Instinctively shrugging off his attempts at flirting, you took a step closer; placing your hand on his chest you pushed him down to the couch with a smug grin before sliding down between his legs.

“W-wow, really… really not wasting any time today, are we comrade~”

“I don’t want to keep the birthday boy waiting now, do I~”

With a purr in your voice, you began rubbing against his crotch that was already straining from his… impatience~

Working your hands against the growing tent in his pants, your fingers found their way the button before releasing his erection causing a quiet groan from the ginger who was now watching your every move like it was the most important thing he’d ever seen.

“So hard already? Just for me~?”

Grinning even more as you can’t help a sense of pride rush through your body, you placed soft kisses along his tip, moving down his shaft all the way to his balls before repeating the process, refusing to break eye contact with him.

Spending a few more minutes enjoying watching your boyfriend start to squirm and get impatient under your touch as your hand slowly pumped up and down his shaft, pulling out soft grunts of pleasure from him as you do.

Finally deciding that you’ve teased him enough you start to let your mouth do the work for you.

Still locking eyes with him, you rub his tip against your lips, savouring the taste of his pre already forming a pearl.

With one swift motion you slide his length inside your mouth, making Tartaglia let out a sharp moan as he threw his head back in pleasure.

“O-oh fuck… babe that’s… Ngh~”

You be lying if you did admit that it even shocked you a little, how well you took him all in first try.

Hearing him whimper and moan every time you bob your head up and down his length, enjoying his slightly salty taste.

“Archons, babe… keep going just like that~”

Feeling his hips start to buck into your mouth, pushing his length even further down, making you gag a little bit still not discouraging you from reaching your goal.

“Oh fUuck- babe I’m going to cum…~”

Without any time to brace yourself, you felt his fingers grip tightly onto your hair as he thrust his hips harder, causing you to gag even more and grip onto his thighs for support before he finally releasing his load.

“Holy fuck yes~!”

Pulling back to admire his breathless, shaking state, a trail of white dripping down your chin-

You can’t help but feel a little more excitement for the rest of the night as you pull out a pair of handcuffs from the draw next to the couch.

“I hope you’re not too tired just yet, I’ve got a lot more in store for you yet~”

This was so bad, I’m so sorry hdicufif.

I’m back into doing requests as normal now that’s I’m pretty much completely recovered eeeeee I’ve missed it so much T-T

[genderqueerdykes]

hi!! different person, but similar question to the person who asked about selling things online as a disabled artist. I would also appreciate an answer from anyone who has experience on this kind of thing, I will be keeping an eye on notes!! :3

I'm not really able to find work where I live, I don't have a diploma or a car and I'm physically unable to do food work. i am artistically skilled though and want to be like, a fandom artist? I want to make prints, stickers, shirts, charms, zines/doujinshis, and eventually more physical stuff like fursuit parts when I'm able to afford exploring that. also digital goods like adopts or YCH/commissions.

do you (or anyone in notes!) have resources or info or experience on selling like, trinkets and art merch? keeping motivation on developing into a freelance career artist?? I know it'll take a while but I'm willing to do the work & I'm willing to sacrifice myself and my art for the algorithm.

that's tough, i'm sorry finding work is so challenging for you in your situation. conventional jobs have been off limit to me for years due to lack of transportation, disability, and so on, so i totally understand that. the economy is harsh right now

the thing to keep in mind when starting is how many different kinds of supplies you will need. the different projects you can do are going to directly be limited by how many supplies you can afford. many hobbies use the same types of materials, wire can be used for wire wrapping, keychains, necklaces, and many other things. elastic string can make both necklaces and bracelets. acrylic paint can be used for a lot of things like altering clothing and objects as well as traditional paintings. thrift stores often times have large boxes of stone, wood, and plastic beads which can be used to make a variety of different types of jewelry. i've also found bulk perler beads, and other craft supplies!

i've always wanted to make fursuits as well, but i would need a sewing machine and a lot of fabric LOL. i'd be curious to hear from fursuit makers since that's been an interest of mine since i first learned about them

mailing things isn't too bad all things considered, you may be able to get free pickup for your outgoing products. also keep in mind that you will need to buy and print shipping labels for every order you ship. motivation is tough but i mitigate that one by allowing myself to try something new when i get bored. maybe i challenge myself to make a new type of jewelry or see if another craft is affordable and look into starting that. when you're your own boss you do get to decide what you do with your time and that's one of the best parts

any other disabled artists who make their own products and trinkets feel free to chime in with advice. sometimes this is what we have to do in order to survive and that's what it is. i'm definitely not a pro at what i'm doing so i'd love to hear from other more experienced folks as well!

[fitrahgolden]

To React: Chapter One

This was actually my first attempt at a multi chapter story. I posted it in December of ‘22 and deleted that chapter last summer. I'm giving it another go. Huge shout out to @lookingfts for helping me flesh out this story and for continuing to give me feedback on my ideas.

To React

—

Kathani Kaveri Sharma, 26

Member of Smythe-Smith Dramatic Society - props and set design

Manager of Palette Arts and Crafts Supply

Watercolour artist by commission

Anthony Bridgerton, 29

Solicitor at Bridgerton, Danbury, and Frederick Solicitors law firm

Benedict Bridgerton, 27

Member of Smythe-Smith Dramatic Society - writing, directing, acting

Published writer - poems, plays

Oil and watercolour artist by commission

Siena Rosso, 25

Member of Smythe-Smith Dramatic Society - acting and singing

Social media influencer

—

CHAPTER ONE

“I can’t keep doing this. I deserve more. So do you, though I know you won’t let yourself believe that. You need to figure out what you want. We both know it isn’t whatever the fuck this is. Anthony, you need to let me go.”

They were standing in the tiny foyer of Siena’s flat. She hadn’t even let him get all the way inside before she told him they needed to talk. They had gone back and forth for about fifteen minutes before Anthony realised he didn’t know what he was fighting for. Everything she’d been saying was true.

Maybe it was just because he was the one that was usually doing the breaking up. And that’s what this was. A real breakup. Not some lover’s quarrel that would inevitably end with them making up, fucking in some ridiculous place like his mum's garden during a dinner party or her dressing room at Smythe-Smith Dramatic Society.

“Right.” He looked down, around, anywhere but at her, feeling like a twat, holding the roses he’d brought to her place, the bouquet she ignored as she wasted no time getting into what had obviously been weighing on her for some time. “Um, so, I’ll go.”

Her eyes were wet with unshed tears. His eyes weren’t, which probably said something. Siena put a hand up to his cheek, which was thick with stubble that one could almost call a proper beard.

“I really wish you all the best, Anthony.” She sounded… tired. So damn tired.

“Thanks, um…” He took half a step back away from her touch, telling himself he didn’t need any comfort. “You, as well.” He turned to leave, but stopped. “Would it–You’ll probably still see me at shows. You know, for Ben.”

Siena nodded. “Of course.”

“I’ll keep my distance, though. At wrap parties and things like that.”

“I’m not worried about it, Anthony.”

“Right.” He stepped out over the threshold. “OK. Bye. Um–Yeah, bye.”

“Bye.”

Anthony had made it halfway down the hallway before realising he was still holding the damned roses. He tossed them in the bin at the top of the stairs without a backwards glance on his way out to the street.

—

The next morning, Siena sat up in bed and turned to her bedside table, where she kept her "I Woke Up Like This" kit: A brush, floss, bottle of water, mascara, and lip stain. Once she was armed for the internet, she posted a quick video to her feed.

"Good morning, guys! I'm gonna level with you. I'm going through some personal stuff right now but I just wanted to hop on here to let anyone who needs to hear this know: You are worth it. No matter how hard it may seem, stand up for yourself. You are your biggest advocate. Love you guys! I'm off to SSDS for rehearsals. Make sure to buy tickets for our upcoming show! It's a revue of Shakespearean comedies! It's gonna be so much fun. Link in my bio! Check in with you later today. Mwuah!"

—

"OK, guys, I think we can call it a day! Thanks for everyone's hard work! Now, let's go drink!"

Benedict's dismissal was met with cheers and applause by the cast and crew, scattered onstage, in the audience, and backstage at the Smythe-Smith Dramatic Society. As everyone gathered their things, most preparing to walk down the street to the pub, Benedict caught up with Siena, who was moving slowly, putting her bag strap over her shoulder.

"Hey."

"Oh, hey, Ben."

"You were great today, as usual, but I just wanted to check in because you seem a bit down. I don't know, low energy? Anything I can help with? Are you unhappy with the show or–"

Siena scoffed and shook her head. "You haven't spoken with your brother?"

Anthony. Of course. Benedict rubbed the back of his neck. "Ah, no. What did he do this time?"

Siena paused thoughtfully. "Nothing, really. It was just time to finally… I don't know, free ourselves, you know?"

Benedict didn't know. He narrowed his eyes. "So… You guys broke up."

It wasn't a question. It was a statement, an indication that this didn't seem like news. They fell out all the time. But Benedict knew better than to point that out.

Siena sighed. "Yes, we broke up. But this time is different.”

Benedict smiled a little at the cliche.

“No, Ben, really. I sort of had an epiphany a few weeks ago. How can I claim to be all about self love and respect while being in a relationship with a guy who has made self-loathing his entire personality? If he doesn't think he deserves anything good, what does our relationship say about how he feels about me?"

Benedict's face sobered. He opened his mouth to respond but nothing seemed right.

"Sorry, I know he's your brother–" Siena waved a hand and made to turn away but Benedict stopped her.

"No, no, it's fine. I do understand what you're saying. I just… I’m sorry he made you feel that way."

Siena shrugged, “I appreciate it.” A small smile formed on her face. “It’s weird. When I woke up this morning, in some ways, I already felt better than I have in a year and a half. I hope it's the same for him. I think it will be. I'll always care about him, you know?”

Benedict nodded slowly. “Come here, babe.” He pulled Siena into a bear hug that made her chuckle. She backed up and put her hand on his shoulder, shaking him gently.

“But, really, we don’t have to talk about your brother. We're meant to be drinking, right?”

Benedict relaxed and took Siena’s bag off her shoulders to carry for her.

“Right. And yours are on me tonight.”

—

Three weeks later, on a Sunday evening, the members of SSDS were celebrating a successful run of “The Comedy of Errors, and Then Some” backstage at the theatre. As always, Benedict made sure the wrap party was catered well and had an open bar. Such was one of the benefits of having a trust fund baby as the most active member of your drama club.

Once Siena had changed, she cautiously entered the gathering, scanning the room for who else may be here in addition to the players and crew.

“He’s not here,” came a voice from behind her.

“Jesus, Ben! Do you need to start wearing a bell?”

“Sorry, honestly didn’t mean to startle you. You just looked… worried?” Benedict raised his eyebrows

Siena nodded reluctantly. “Thanks.. I… Yeah, I was wondering if he was here,” she admitted. How has he been? I haven’t really seen much from him online or anything.”

“To quote the man himself,” Benedict dramatically pulled out his phone, took a deep breath, and uttered, “‘I’m fine.’” 

“Ugh, fuck off.” Siena gently pushed his shoulder as they shared a laugh. “He’s always fucking fine,” she lamented, rolling her eyes.

Benedict shrugged. “Yep. Haven’t seen him much. He came to a show, of course. Left a donation. Same as ever. Mum was complaining that he hasn’t been at the house, citing work every time any of us even hints at a family get-together.”

“Same old shit.” Siena ruefully shook her head.

“Same old shit, indeed. Anyway, we don’t have to talk about him, remember? Can I get you a drink? Some food? You have to eat something. This place I ordered from is fucking excellent.”

Benedict offered Siena his arm, and after she took it, he led her to the buffet table.

“Every place you pick is always excellent, Ben.”

—

Kathani sat on one of the folding chairs at the edge of the party, thinking it was probably time to say her goodbyes and head out. She was opening the art supply shop she managed in the morning, and had already had too much to drink, if she was being honest. She needed to pack for Bridgwater so she could catch the train right after work. Mary and Edwina always insisted she didn’t have to visit every week, yet every time she made the trip, there was a laundry list of things with which they needed help. And lately there was the ongoing conversation of where Edwina wanted to go to university. Ultimately, Kathani wanted her sister to pick anywhere she wanted. But if Edwina stayed in Somerset, she could live at home with Mum, which would be great not only for Mary but also for their family finances. Edwina had spoken excitedly about the aspect of coming to London. Kathani had been careful not to discourage her–not yet, at least. However she always found herself in a spiral about everything that would need to change to make that happen–without contacting Mary’s parents. Mary can’t stay three hours away from her daughters by herself. How would they pay for Edwina’s tuition? If Edwina lived with her, that would help, but her flat is tiny. Could she afford a bigger place? She could leave SSDS and have time for a proper second job. Maybe put more effort into marketing her paintings?

“Hey, mind if I sit here?”

Kathani’s thoughts were interrupted by Siena Rosso, gesturing towards the empty chair next to her.

“Not at all. Brilliant job tonight. The whole run, actually, as always.”

Siena settled into the chair and smiled as she took a sip of her drink. “Thanks. It’s Kate, right? Beautiful work on the sets. Likewise, no surprise there.”

“It’s Kathani, actually, and thank you.”

“Oh. Sorry, I could have sworn–”

Kathani waved her off. “It’s fine, I went by Kate for a while. Decided to go back to my given name. I realised I actually couldn't be arsed to care too much about making white people more comfortable with me.”

“Ah. Sorry.”

“On behalf of all white people?” Kathani teased.

Siena held up her hands. “Just me, I’m afraid.”

“Well, apology accepted.” The two women shook hands in mock seriousness, laughing. “I’ll just have to collect my reparations one at a time, then.”

They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments before Kathani spoke again.

“Isn’t Benedict’s brother usually following you around at these things?” Kathani’s voice was a little tight as she asked the question, falling short of her goal to sound only mildly interested.

“Ah.” Siena shook her head, resigned. “Nope. Not anymore.”

Kathani's eyebrows shot up, something like longing awakening within her and making her heart stutter. She schooled her features before tentatively offering, “Sorry?”

“No, it’s good. I mean, thanks, but… I ended it. It was the right thing to do. Um–” Siena suddenly looked away, sheepish.

Kathani narrowed her mirthful eyes. “But…?”

“What?” she responded innocently.

Kathani held her hands up. “Hey, you don’t have to tell me, I can just tell there was more you were going to say. And I’m a neutral-ish party.”

“Ish?”

“Well, Anthony isn’t here to defend himself, is he? So, I’ll gladly ‘yes and’ any shit you want to say about him.” Hearing how terrible a partner Anthony is sounded like exactly what Kathani needed.

Siena laughed, “Ha, no. Actually, it’s nothing to do with him. Not directly, anyway.”

Oh, well. “No?”

“Yeah, I’m just… I don’t know…” Siena struggled to articulate her thoughts, gesturing vaguely at her own body.

Kathani smiled as realisation hit her. “Lonely? Missing a warm body in your bed? Getting tired of your vibrator?”

“Jeez, yeah. Yes, OK?” Siena looked around as if anyone might be paying attention to them. No one was, of course.

“Hey, no judgement coming from this direction,” Kathani said. “Actually… I think I may be able to help with that.”

Siena raised an eyebrow, amused, but perhaps also intrigued. “You think so, eh?”

Kathani shrugged, biting her lip. “I, um… I was actually about to head out.” She looked over at the exit before meeting Siena’s gaze, holding it.

“OK,” Siena said softly before swallowing.

Slowly, giving Siena time to stop her, Kathani raised her hand and pushed a lock of Siena’s hair behind her ear and smiled at her, her eyes dropping to Siena’s mouth.

“Smooth,” Siena whispered, her eyes similarly trained on Kathani's lips.

“Thank you,” Kathani replied under her breath before leaning in and kissing her.

Siena was still for a few moments, but right before Kathani took the hint and pulled away, she felt Siena’s lips move against hers. Kathani cupped the back of Siena’s head and deepened the kiss once Siena opened her mouth to allow Kathani’s tongue to mingle with hers. Once they pulled back for breath, Kathani stood and held out her hand. After Siena took it and stood as well, she said, “Let me get this out of the way now. I actually do have work in the morning, and I’m going to visit my family afterwards.”

“Two tried and true excuses? Impressive.” Siena's eyes twinkled.

“I know. But if tonight goes well, maybe we can catch up next week?” She ran a thumb over Siena's knuckles

They shared a grin before Siena nodded. “Yeah, take me home and let’s see how we fare.”

—

The following week, SSDS met up to discuss their next show. Benedict noted that Kathani and Siena were sitting together and tried to remember if he’d ever seen them looking so friendly. Of course, all the members knew each other to some degree. But it was a pretty big group, and Kathani tended to stick with her fellow props and set design crew. But the twosome were certainly friendly tonight, smiling and whispering throughout the meeting and then finally, once everyone was dismissed, leaving together, hand-in-hand.

—

Anthony was leaving a date’s townhouse when he received a video call from Benedict.

“What?” he huffed as he jogged down the front steps.

Benedict looked to be trying to make out Anthony's surroundings. “Well, well, well. It’s only 9 o’clock. Couldn’t even stay for tea?”

“Right. Hanging up.”

“Wait, wait! I have news,” Benedict announced in a singsong voice.

"Sure, you do. Go on, then."

"Seriously, though. I'm only telling you this because I work with them and if something comes up on Siena's Instagram or something, I know you're gonna feel betrayed or some shit."

"Siena can do whatever she wants," Anthony said, defensive.

"I know that. But does that mean you don't want to know if she's hooking up with someone I know?"

Anthony slowed his steps. After rolling his eyes and running a hand over his face, he relented.

"Fine. Who is it?"

"You remember Kathani Sharma, right? She does the sets."

Kathani Sharma. Kate. Of course Anthony remembered Kate. Last year, Benedict dragged him to SSDS bowling. Well, more like his brother casually mentioned he was going bowling, and Anthony grabbed his bowling bag and declared, "Fuck, yeah, I'll come show you theatre kids how it's done!"

A couple of hours later and he was as frustrated as he was mesmerised by the woman he ended up on the same lane with. Anthony would never say she was better than him. Never. But facts are facts, and she blew him out of the water on that particular night. And with such unabashed glee, as well. "That's not even my highest score!" she had crowed, a grin gracing her striking face. As far as Anthony was concerned, he was playing against Kate and Kate alone. And she seemed to be on the same wavelength. That night had been shaping up to be the most fun he'd had in a long time before it was suddenly cut short when Siena, who had been playing several lanes away, sauntered up to him and started whispering in his ear about how much she missed him. Before he knew it, he was in the back of a car with Siena, a thought circling in the back of his mind about not giving Kate a proper goodbye–and a quieter yet more persistent thought that he shouldn't have left at all.

"Ant?"

Benedict's smug smile greeted Anthony as he was pulled back to the present, a stranger jostling passed him where he'd stopped on the sidewalk.

"Yes, I remember her. Like I said, Siena can do whatever she wants. No need to keep me updated. I've gotta go."

"I'm sure you do. The night is young and all that."

—

Back at his penthouse, Anthony felt like the worst cliche, and a bit of a creep, if he was being honest. What bothered him most was that he didn’t know why he was behaving this way. In the history of his on and off relationship with Siena, he’d never been particularly interested in who Siena spent her time with when they were “off.” Sure, he got a little jealous when he happened to see a social media post featuring her and someone else looking cosy, but it passed quickly. He had his own company to keep him plenty occupied. And, anyway, he always took comfort in the assumption that they would eventually resume the exclusive fuckery that they called a relationship. But that door was finally firmly closed, and here he was, googling “Kathani Sharma London” and sorting through the results.

[sinnershavesoulstoo]

I'm looking for fairly priced commissioned illustrators

I know I'm not super active on here much anymore, but I'm a busy little woman. (AKA a massive ADHD headcase who has 40 different projects going on that take up most of my time now)

Last year I wrote a children's book. I was going to publish it and it was 4 pages too short. Which is probably good for me, because it was a spur of the moment thing that I did in 2 months. I have the ideas for the 4 pages on sticky notes and I just have to finish up the wording.

I thought I was going to be great at doing illustrations on my laptop because it was touch screen and I'm fine at other art mediums. Turns out I'm only good at pen and paper drawings. Like - seriously - huge props to everyone that does digital art.

But I'm looking for someone to illustrate this 32 page children's book for me and let me buy the rights to your artwork. I don't expect this book to be a best seller, I don't expect this book to cost much once it's in print. Truth be told - I wrote this book for a friend as a halfway joke/to be encouraging for them, but I think it's actually good enough to be published. It would give me something to add to my small list of big accomplishments and I'd love to have an actual published book because it's been on my bucket list since 2016.

I'm going to be extremely transparent here. I'm new to all of this. I am not necessarily mad at my art work seeing as it was the first time I've tried digital art, but it could be better. I love the cover, the inside cover pages (they're the same drawing), and the dedication page. If I could find someone who could just take my artwork and redefine it, that would be ideal. I assume fine tuning someone's pre-existing work would be cheaper. This book means a lot to me, but I don't even make a living wage. I can pay someone between $200 and $250 to help me make this dream a reality. I know it's not really a lot of money for something this big, and it's likely a pipe dream - but I have to at least try to find someone who might want to help me out.

I would absolutely and very obviously add your name to the book as the illustrator. Again, since I'm not expecting this to be huge, I don't expect to have any/much profit from it - which is why I'm hoping to buy the rights to your artwork.

If anyone would be willing and is serious about this:

I will send you the book in it's current form and the extra pages I'm looking to add.

I'd love to look at your 'portfolio' to see if your art work is what I have in mind. If you decide going the route of changing my artwork a little is better, I'd love to see a sample of how you would change it.

I'll send you some form of communication other than Tumblr once we establish it's a good fit, because I don't get on here a ton! Likely an email address or my google information so we can share stuff more easily.

If you're into it and my monetary budget isn't enough - I can cross stitch, I have a few Squishmallows, I have a lot of mini brands, and I have a lot of starter Pokémon cards that I'd absolutely be willing to send to you as well.

TLDR: I'm looking for someone to illustrate/help illustrate a 32 page children's book that is a passion project of mine. I can offer between $200 and $250, plus some other collectable items I have at my house or a handmade cross stitch project (or all of the above). I'd love to buy the rights to your artwork and I'm happy to send what I have for the book so far if you're truly interested in helping me with this. I'd love to have reference art from you to make sure it's what I'm looking for!

[juicesnatcher]

Hmm, I wonder..

After buying that Sybil plush, I am now kinda tight on spending money. It hurt my pockets pretty bad, and I don't want to take funds from my savings to use on other things. So what if..

I open commissions for a bit(?)

Would anyone buy something from me? It definitely won't be much, just lineart and flat color on a basic background.

And I'm thinkiiiiing...maybe $15 for a drawing? Probably 2 slots only, I can't handle a work load any bigger than that or I'll definitely crash myself immediately, like the last time I tried comms. It's gonna be a "first come, first served" kind of system too, so if you want something, tell me sooner rather than later.

I'm not gonna make a comm sheet for this or anything, you can just look at my art to see what you're getting yourself into. Just reblog this around maybe, or dm me here or on discord if you want something (my user is in my bio). Thanks.

(Only accepting payment through kofi btw!! it's the safest and easiest option for me!!)

I will not do complex design stuff, that's a no-go for me. I will also not draw anything to do with gore, suggestive, or straight-up nsfw topics, you freaks.

[20dollarlolita]

I don't remember if you already answered this, sorry in advance if you have, but what are your thoughts on the Bernette 79 Yaya Han edition sewing machine + embroidery machine? I consider myself a cosplayer and a lolita (Yaya is, as far I can recall, a cosplayer but not a lolita), and I've only ever sewn on a vintage Singer in a table and a Hello Kitty Janome. I don't see myself using the embroider option a lot since I embroider by hand, so that part would be taking up space unless I put in the effort to learn. On the other hand, it's a pretty shade of purple and is meant to sew over a variety of costuming fabrics which cannot be said of my current machine. It seems like a lot of extra stuff I probably don't need or have time to learn about if I do need them, but preliminary research seems to show it's a great value for the price (unless you break it). Or do you have any other recommendations in the same line? Thanks again for all your diligence and hard-earned expertise!

Okay, so I just sold one of those to someone whose other machines are a Hello Kitty Janome and a vintage Singer in a table, and I had to immediately check if you and them were the same person. So if you're Singer in a table is a 201, you should really meet my other customers.

Also quick note to everyone who is interested in this machine: you can buy it from the company that I work for. It's an internet model, so I can sell it to anyone in the USA. I can price match anyone else selling it. If you buy it from me, I get credit for the sale and I make commission (but it doesn't cost you anything). So if you want a Bernette b79 Yaya Han edition, or probably any other sewing machine, please shoot me an ask and I'll give y'all my work email or my sale code.

So I personally don't like Yaya as a person, but the B79 is a pretty good deal if it's what you're looking for. The fact that it's got embroidery and it has the digitizing software is really the thing that pushes it into the really good price point. On the sewing side, the foot kit is a really good perk, especially because not a lot of places keep feet in stock that work with the dual feed.

But if you're really not interested in the embroidery, I'd suggest just getting the Bernette b77, which is the sewing-only version of the b79 (if you want the embroidery-only version of the b79, you're looking for the b70Deco). It's going to be about a thousand dollars cheaper. It, sadly, is not purple, but that's nothing a few stickers can't fix. My store's current price on the Yaya 79 is $2499 and our price on the b77 is $1499, so it's literally a thousand dollars.

(Or, if you're absolutely insane, you can get some Cricut infusible ink paper and an EasyPress mini and sublimate onto the front of your machine. It's the kind of plastic that takes sublimation. Isn't that absolutely bonkers wild?)

That said, if you're willing to spend the extra money, you would be getting embroidery with a very large hoop size (for a beginning sewing machine, anyway), the foot kit, the built-in stitches and designs, and Creator9. I tell creative people who are interested in embroidery machines that you should not consider embroidery software to be optional. There's a lifetime worth of fun premade designs and projects in the hoop, and most people are happy to jut use those, but most of the people who are in my age range would not feel like they're getting everything out of their embroidery machine if they can't digitize goofy ideas from scratch. Creator 9 is like a thousand dollars normally, so it's what I find really pushes the price of the Yaya machine into the "really good deal" range, if you ask me. But, if you're not interested in embroidery, it's not really worth paying the extra money.

Anyway, if you're interested, please buy from me because it won't cost you more and it helps me pay my utility bills.

[france-the-third]

Guys is this a scam?? Or do they genuinely think this is a good business model??

Or do they suck that badly at conversation I guess

The messages:

[random name as url, account is empty and the pfp is some girl seen from behind.]

The name starts with a C so that shall be their name here:

Followed you 2 days ago

(usually when someone follows my main acc they get in my notifs by liking/rbing something recent or my pinned so I remember their existence, C, other than following me, did not interact in the slightest)

C: Hiya!

C: How's everything going with you?

Me: Hi? I'm good but who are you?

C: Actually I like your pfp thats why I message you

Me: Oh, well ty!

(i made the pfp on my main :] )

C: ofc

C: Well do you play video games?

(why are you trying to start a conversation as if we were trying to find things in common, if you really just messaged me about a pfp either that's it end of convo or ask a question like, idk, where'd you find it or something)

Me: Not really, sorry

C: Ahh Alright

C: Well do you have any favorite charecter? (ouch the spelling)

Me: Depends what media but yeah! Do you know the Enchanted Forest Chronicles?

(amazing books, love 'em)

C: Let me check

C: I saw this charecter?

C: Charecter*

(there is no difference between those words and that is haunting me now)

Me: If there's a pic I'm afraid I can't see it?

C: Alright

C: Well do you like digital artwork?

(what is this way of making conversation)

Me: Depends on the style but yeah it's both fun to look at and do!

C: Actually I am an artist and I can do paid commission

(commisionS please 😭 - that's not that bothering usually it's just since I'm typing it out that it's bothering me lol)

(this is the point where I was like ... Is this supposed to be a good way to find customers???)

C: Can I show you my portfolio?

Me: If you want me to be able to actually commission anything you'd have to wait a few years but sure go for it!

(dude /gn I can't pay but yeah show me your art!!! <- applicable to anyone btw, i love seeing people's art)

C: Wdym?

Me: I'm a minor and have no way of paying online?

(My parents are already sort of skeptical of etsy, and they're paying for me to go to art school next year; if I asked to buy an artist's merch they'd already be skeptical but asking to buy someone's art would just get me a "can't you just make it yourself?")

C: Can you use your parents account?

(Just realized it's not even 'can you ask your parents' but 'can you use their account'. I'm probably reading too much into this, but no i'm not going to use my parents' credit cards online without telling them??)

Me: Nope

Me: That's kinda part of the "I can't pay online" thing

And then i came here lol

I'd like to point out that I love meeting new people on here, and talking about stuff we both like, especially art! But already getting messages from empty tumblrs is weird, but then they bring up after only a few messages "hey you can pay me for this thing btw" and idk what this is 😭

[bittlestofbats]

This is me, reposting my commission sheet because I had a brain fart and completely mispriced the halfbody section, oh wow. If you have my old one reblogged and can find it un-reblogging it would be great.

Written versions of the prices and stuff can be found here: https://bittlebatus.carrd.co/#commissions

Want to see my gallery, here you go: https://bittlebatus.carrd.co/#gallery

Selfshipping commissions have a discount for two characters now listed on the price part of my carrd above.

❤️ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜

COMMISSION INFO

I will draw almost any species, ocs or canon character, selfships, scenery, etc as long as it isn't the following:

Anything that goes against my " I do not support or endorse " list. I refuse to draw offensive or illegal/borderline illegal stuff. This means I WON'T draw pedophilia content, zoophilia content, incest, etc. Remember to check my " I do not support or endorse list " for what I won't draw before you ask.

Intense gore.

The following characters: Anyone from BoJack Horseman (trauma-related) and Dr. Habit (trauma-related)

Anime characters, live-action characters, non toony CGI characters. None of these translate well into my style, so I prefer working with characters who are more cartoonish. However, if you are entirely fine with testing the waters I can toonify whatever realistic character you want.

Fetish content and NSFW commissions are not taken on this account so respect my boundaries.

Buying from me you accept ahead of time my style is extremely toony and your character's shapes will be over-exaggerated, especially for anthros and animal-like characters.

I have the right to refuse any commission that makes me uncomfortable.

I'M SUPER WELCOMING TO SELFSHIPPING COMMISSIONS AS LONG AS IT'S NOT PROSHIPPING TOPICS.

I only take Paypal and work through invoices. Commissioners get very basic thumbnails to choose from before the entire rest of the commission process begins ( Thumbnails - Clean Sketch - Color - Shading - Backgrounds )

I will look characters up first to be sure you're not lying to me about ages, etc. So please don't try to get around it.

Please reblog this post if you can it helps me massively.

❤️ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜

⛔I do NOT support or endorse: Pedophiles and " MAPS ", cub porn artist, racists, zoophiles, LGBTQ+phobic people, sexist, people who ship disgusting content constantly seen in proshitter communities, people who draw disgusting content like hate art/incest/typical proshitter stuff/etc., or people who are just horrible types of people like morally wrong sympathizers/nazis/etc. ⛔

[petra-creat0r]

Annual Update 2025

Hooooo boy. Howdy Creative Creators. Okay, as of writing this, I just got back from a 10 day trip from Washington, and it's December 30th, of 2024. Just a couples days until 2025, so I guess let's try to review.

Most of the time, I try to make these annual updates as a sort of promise of what I'm gonna try to get done in the upcoming year (or at least what I WANT to try and get done) but... Well, looking at the state of my comic, I think it best to just, stop trying to promise anything. Between college and the huge shake up that's about to happen in my life in the upcoming months... Yeah, I don't quite see it getting done soon. I had like, one bought of wanting to work on it sometime in the beginning of December and then had to work on Christmas stuff or preparing for the trip.

So, instead, I'm gonna try and outline some personal goals for myself here. I can already tell that 2025 is gonna be a turbulent year so, I might as well have some sort of list to keep me on track. I'm gonna leave them under the cut, but if anyone wants to read them be my guest.

Hope you have a Happy New Years, Creative Creators, and I'll see you in 2025.

Graduate college with my associates degree.

Personally, I would like to go for a bachelor's but... I think that might have to wait for a while. With the change that's happening, my main source of tuition payment (my dad) will be in another state and even if I'll still qualify for in-state tuition... Stuff's gonna be hectic enough. I'm already close to being done with the associates for my current major, and could already apply for one for my previous major so, best I try and wrap that up as soon as possible. I'd already have to at some point anyways to make it easier to transfer colleges later on.

2. Get a job

Something I've been struggling with for... a while. I think I should be able to get one I can hold for longer once I'm out of college, but even before then, I really need to find something. I need a job history, I need an income, the sooner I can get to be more independent and able to pay for my own life, the better. And sadly my fanbase is a bunch of broke teens/young adults, so commissions will get me no where.

3. Make progress/finish on my Deltarune Chapter takes before Chapters 3 and 4 come out sometime this year.

We (or at least those of us active in the fandom) all know that the next chapters are coming out 2025, it's unclear WHEN in 2025 they're coming out, but Toby has confirmed they're 100000000000% coming out this year. And while I am beyond excited to FINALLY get to play through more of this story... I also want to get my personal chapter takes done before then. At the least figure out more of the characters and locations for both my chapter 3 and 4 takes before all my ideas get influenced by the canon. Bitsy, Elymas, and Veratus will always exist in my AU, mostly as it's an AU that I know is diverging from the canon, but I'm worried about aspects of my take inevitably getting influenced by the canon when it comes out. Call me silly if you want, but I want to get my takes down before the actual chapters release.

4. Enjoy and play Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 once they release

That being said with my own takes, like I said I am excited to get to play the next chapters once they do release. I'm going to make sure I save a bit of money specifically to be able to purchase the game once it comes out. I will likely stream in on my Discord Server once I'm able to buy and play it.

5. Continue Fool's Fate

I still need to finish the Chapter 2 roleplay of Fool's Fate, and come up with more characters. I think I sorta got caught up in stuff, but at least Fool's Fate I don't have to continue or finish before the next chapters of Deltarune proper come out since it's story won't be influenced directly by Chapters 3 and 4's release.

6. Hopefully finally be able to continue AtDFF

It should be easier once I've graduated college, but I DO want to get back to work on the comic. At this point I've redesigned and reworked things AGAIN for AtDFF, and I don't think that AYC is going to be continuing. At least not in the same form it was prior. Like I mentioned, I did have a bought of comic inspiration and motivation early December, before getting caught up in other stuff, so it's not that I don't want to work on it, it's just always been a matter of time and motivation. Ideally, I'd be able to get to point where I can consistently work on it there's just... so many factors from backgrounds to scripts, thumbnails, boards, actually drawing the thing, other stuff in my life. I technically have a small team to work on this with me (mainly my girlfriend and another friend), but I would like to, I don't know, pay them? For their work and help with it? That get's difficult when again, my fanbase is as broke as I am.

7. Get to work on my other projects

Dragon Riders, POW-R, my Fakemon region, Kinder Eyes, etc. I have no doubt I'll develop them more a bit over the upcoming year, (mostly as my hyper fixations shift), but I'd also like to be able to post about them. Preferably get asks about them (whenever I decide to turn back on asks)? Undertale/Deltarune might be my main thing, but's it's never been my ONLY thing, and I want to be able to share my other projects more as well.

[tryslora]

Support your favorite creative(s) this season!

So, it’s the holiday season (for values of holiday which can be anything you care to celebrate during the winter months) and you would like to support your favorite creative(s). What are some good ways to do that?

Tell the world about them

If someone is a favorite of yours, there’s a good chance that you know someone else who will enjoy their work. Signal boost the creative’s posts. Create your own post with links to their work. Showcase some of your favorite pieces of theirs with a snippet and a link to the original. Talk about why you love the work (trust me, your favorite creative will love to hear this just as much as your friends will appreciate finding out about something new).

Important side note which I know you know but it bears repeating: please reblog and link to your favorite creative’s posts; do not repost their material. Reposting might sound like a great way to show off what the creative does, but it doesn’t help anyone find them. Please be considerate.

Post reviews of their work

Instructions for this depends on what type of creative you are following. If they are a writer, leave a review on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, B&N, whatever platform you choose. Positive reviews are how writers get discovered.

If your creative is an artist and has a platform where they offer commissions, leave a review there if appropriate. Give them five stars. Help your creative climb the ranks from unknown to well-reviewed!

Follow them on social media

If your creative has a list of social media accounts, follow them! This gives you a better chance to help signal boost their cool stuff (as well as hearing about it when they post!). It also gives you a chance to interact, and to see what they’re like when they aren’t creating. If you like their creations, you might have other things in common. 

Does your creative have a newsletter? Subscribe! You can even forward copies to your friends if there’s something really cool you want to share. A Patreon? Check to see if they have free material posted. Many Patreons allow people to follow at a free level, and while there might be paywall-locked material, there might be unlocked material as well.

Social media is wide and varied these days, with everything from Bluesky and Mastodon, to old-school Facebook pages, to even older-school platforms like Dreamwidth. Don’t forget the little known Pillowfort, or the highly fannish Tumblr. Even better, be aware that your creative may present different faces in different spaces. They are just as human as the rest of us!

Talk to them

I’m serious! Being a creative is like shouting into the abyss… if the abyss happens to shout back, that’s emotional food that can sustain a creative for days. Most creatives have several places where they can be found, either for private communication (check to see if they accept messages/DMs/emails first, please) or for public conversation (social media can be wonderful!). 

Create a transformative work

This won’t work for all creatives. BUT. If your creative is a writer, I would place a bet that they would LOVE fanart of their work. Or maybe that’s just me.

Buy their stuff

Yes, this one requires money, and I am well aware that most of us don’t have the budget for monetary support. And that’s fine! As shown above, there are so many other ways to support your creative and help them grow. But if you do have the budget, picking up copies of their work means you can get great gifts for your friends (and help spread the word!). And if you’re up for it, monthly support via Patreon, or random tips are always nice and appreciated things.

Ask them what will help

In the end, every creative has their own list of things that will help them most, and almost every single one would be happy to tell anyone what would help Right Now.

I’m putting this next bit behind a cut/read-more/clicky-link — whatever is appropriate to the platform you’re reading this on. Because this is the personal bit where I add links to the places you can find me. 

And if you are a creative and you are reblogging this on a platform which allows reblogs, please add your own list of helpful information. If it’s a place with comments, please comment! I want to help by giving other creatives a way to get information out.

Where can you find me…?

TrisLawrence.com is my professional website, with blog posts, upcoming appearances, and links to where to find my Stuff.

I post blog entries on Tumblr, Pillowfort, and Dreamwidth (which mirrors on Livejournal and Insanejournal).

I babble randomly on Bluesky and Mastodon. While I exist on Twi-X, I no longer post there.

I have a professional Facebook page. I have an Instagram. I have a TikTok that I am trying to learn how to use.

I am also active in several Discord communities, if you happen to find me there.

Want to support me? -- Patreon | Ko-Fi | Reblog & Comment

Want to hear more from me? — Join my mailing list

[writingquestionsanswered]

Hi, do you think a story needs to be timeless for it to be successful? I’m writing an action adventure novel and I want my main character to be interested in old action movies but I’m worried if I reference things like that then my novel won’t be ‘timeless’ and will then become kind of irrelevant I guess. I’m setting it in the present day but was considering adding in some new technology and stuff so it’s not too dated but I’m just very conflicted about having an action novel set in the present day with contemporary countries and retro references. Any thoughts or advice? Thank you so much in advance!

Worried About Timelessness of Adventure Novel

Stories don't have to be timeless in order to stay relevant and popular. Plenty of outdated novels maintain their relevance and popularity.

If your story takes place in the modern day, don't invent new tech just to make the story feel less dated, because even your invented tech will feel outdated someday. Also, unless it makes sense for your character to have access to new and unusual tech, you risk confusing the reader.

Something else to consider is "old action movies" are already dated today. In other words, if your "modern day" character is obsessed with 70s action movies, that doesn't date your story to today. Anyone from the 1970s onward can be obsessed with 1970s action movies. It's not like old action movies are any more trendy right now than they have been at any other point.

The only thing you really have to watch is things like pop culture references (jokes about current events, TV, movies, stars, and trends) as well as slang. It's not that you can't include those, but the more you include, the more you date your story. So, limit them as much as you possibly can, opting instead for references that are likely to be understood just as well in 20 years. Like, Mickey Mouse has been around since 1928, and it's pretty likely he'll still be around in another 20 years, so that's a reference that's not going to date your story.

Happy writing!

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

Learn more about WQA

See my ask policies

Visit my Master List of Top Posts

Go to ko-fi.com/wqa to buy me coffee or see my commissions

[genopaint]

⭐️BAHAMUTGREEN COMMISSIONS ARE BACK OPEN!!⭐️

As always there's 4 slots, first come first served. Anyone after these 4 I'll add to a waitlist and get back to you when I'm ready!

You can find my more in depth info right over here

Here's some recent-ish commissions I did if you want some examples of the stuff I can make :)

I did update the commission info a tiny bit. Just some small price increases and even some decreases where I thought necessary. Overall my goal with this new wave of commissions is to be a little more strict on pricing, communication, ect ect, to make things easier for me

Basically I'm gonna try to seriously, actually charge more when a commission is going to be way harder. So stuff like full backdrops and ref sheets will probably cost more. And similarly I may be a little more selective with what comms I do when so I can make good use of time

BUT as always, I'll never send you an invoice before we agree on pricing. And you're always welcome to come message me and see what I can do! The worst I can say is no, right?

Thank you all so much for your time and patience! My brain isn't 100% back together from all the stress but I think I'm good to get back to the grind. And also, I mean... come on... I need money to buy video games dont I?