About the Artist

Hi, my name is Jan. I took one tole painting class 16 years ago at a local craft shop and I was hooked! Everything I've learned since that class I have taught myself. I bought countless tole painting patterns and painted for years. I eventually found myself altering other designers patterns to my own liking. I discovered I actually had a style of my own. I stopped buying other artists' patterns and decided to try my hand at designing my own. It felt great to release my creativity into my own painting designs! My husband created my first website for which I am very thankful. He helped me get my start, along with some ads in Country Marketplace magazine. Well, that was probably eight or so years ago, I've recently taken off a couple years from designing (life gets complicated sometimes). But I have kept my original website up and running all along. I currently have around 60 patterns, but I'm back at it again! I am so pleased and excited to announce the opening of my new website. My hope is to keep fresh whimsical patterns coming on somewhat of a regular basis.

Besides being a wife, I'm a mom of two awesome sons. Drew is 19 and Zach is 22, not to mention my two cats, Mr. Gray and Mr. Gold. Drew has just graduated and is passionate about music. He hopes to pursue a career in music or teaching. He is a talented guitarist and by far the funniest person I know! Zach is also a talented guitarist and carpenter. He is currently in college pursuing a bachelors in computer science. He is fully responsible for this new website, with the exception of the character graphics which he asked me to design. Those being me and my cats on the top of this page. I pray God will bless him for all the months of hard work that went into it. His gift has truly become my blessing!

Other than Just By Jan, I am a cafeteria worker at our local elementary school. I lead a college age group at our church. I enjoy playing guitar and I love the Bible! I suppose the inspirations for my designs come from everyday trials and experiences, and definitely God's word. Any talent that I may have comes from God. It's because of Him that I can turn my inspirations into designs. I can only hope that my love for the Lord is revealed through my work. To Him be the glory! Please write me with your ideas and suggestions. I would love to hear from you!