Hi, I’m Shannon.
Shannon Marie Makes is a Northeast Ohio–based artist, author, and illustrator who creates story-driven work filled with imagination and heart. Her latest picture book, Sylvie Spins: Where the Web Begins, gently explores perfectionism and the courage to begin.
Through her books and workshops, she invites others to embrace creativity and tell their own stories.
NOTE - I’m so excited to begin offering author visits + creative workshops connected to my new children’s book!
As a teaching artist, I love creating experiences where storytelling and hands-on art come together.
If you’re an educator, librarian, or program coordinator, I’d love to connect.
Let’s bring something meaningful and creative to your students, or community!
Sylvie Spins - Where the Web Begins
Sylvie Spins - Where the Web Begins
A story about creativity, courage, and starting before you’re ready.
Sylvie Spins: Where the Web Begins, was inspired by the quiet struggle of wanting to start something—but not knowing how.
Through all my books, workshops, and public art, Shannon encourages both children and adults to embrace creativity, let go of perfection, and begin where they are.
Thank you for supporting independent, handcrafted books and creative storytelling!
The companion book, Sylvie’s Book of Brave Beginnings - A creative activity book for kids who have ideas… but don’t always know where to start, will also be available soon! 92 pages of prompts and activities.
Sylvie’s Book of Brave Beginnings is a creative activity book for kids who love to draw, imagine, and make something new.
Inspired by Sylvie’s story, this book encourages children to start creating — even when they don’t feel ready. Through drawing prompts, collage activities, and playful challenges, kids learn that ideas don’t have to be perfect to begin.
Inside, you’ll find:
• Open-ended drawing prompts
• “Finish the drawing” activities
• Cut-and-create collage pages
• A hands-on “Scrap Box” section
• A guided story section where kids create their own story
• Gentle reflection pages that build creative confidence
Children can draw, cut, tear, and explore at their own pace. There is no right or wrong way to use this book — just a place to begin.
Perfect for ages 5–10, this 8.5 x 11 activity book offers plenty of space for creativity and works beautifully for:
• At-home art time
• Classrooms and homeschool
• Library programs and workshops
At the heart of this book is a simple idea:
Every big idea starts small.
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Visiting Artist 2025-2026 school year, Jasper Elementarty
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Pottery camp
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Artist Talk and Collaborative workshop
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Wet Felting Workshop at Akron Art Museum
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Corporate Workshop
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Felted Book Worm Workshop at Buckeye Library in Medina, Ohio
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Felted Landscape Workshop - several libraries and community events
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Felted Landscape workshop
Shannon Marie Makes
Through books, fiber art, and public installations, I create spaces where story becomes something you can see, touch, and carry with you. This website is still quite new! I closed my old site and am learning all the ins and outs of this system…
What you’ll find more of here soon:
My illustrated books
Coloring books and downloads
School & library workshops
Free creative downloads
Studio journal updates.
Meet Penny and Cash, my studio assistants. They love long walks on the farm, snacks and carrying their blankies from room to room.
Neither one of them likes being near water or having to go up or down stairs. ?