About Me

Hi! I’m Rachel Shingleton and I’m a graphic designer in Oklahoma City, where I’ve been freelancing almost 8 years. The blog began as a place where I could collect all my favorite things and has grown in the past five years to include fashion, beauty, interiors, family fun, and of course, some design projects too.  Pencil Shavings is a natural extension of my design philosophy –  beauty in the everyday. I’ve been named one of TLC’s 5 Can’t miss Mom Style blogs and have also been featured at Apartment Therapy, Ohdeedoh, Sara’s Party Perfect, CafeMom and more.

I grew up in Oklahoma City, and headed off to California to attend Pepperdine University, only to return to finish up at the University of Oklahoma with a BFA in visual communications in 2004. In the middle of all that, I studied in France with the Sorbonne, Paris American Academy, and Parsons School of Design.   In 2005, I married my best friend Simon and we welcomed our redheaded firecracker son Jude in 2007.

My design philosophy is about color, pattern, and whimsy — but above all, making sure it’s beautiful. I’m always interested in learning more about designing my life and helping others figure out how to be the best version of themselves, too.

 

PENCIL SHAVINGS STUDIO AT ETSY

In January of 2011, I launched my Etsy shop, Pencil Shavings Studio, where I offer invitations of all kinds as well as other paper-related gifts and party downloadables. We’ve since added custom iPhone cases, platters, lucite trays, and more.  Check it out as I am always adding fun new items!

ULCERATIVE COLITIS & ME

Maybe you’re here because you have ulcerative colitis and you’d like to learn more about my experience with UC and subsequent J-pouch surgery at the Mayo Clinic. Click here to see my page on UC.

Random & Completely Inconsequential Things to Know About Me

  • I’ve never met a color I didn’t like.
  • I’ve also never met a sequin that I didn’t like.
  • I wrote a novel at the age of 15.
  • My college job was working as a stagehand for a traveling dance competition.
  • I really REALLY love the internet. My husband frequently says that surely I’ve found the end of it by now.