As the year wraps up and I start closing projects, I always notice the same thing:
my days are powered by a handful of tools I reach for over and over again.
Not flashy. Not trendy.
Just reliable, creative essentials that support my work as a graphic designer every single day.
So instead of a big year-in-review post, I wanted to share something simple — a list of my favorite design tools, tech, and cozy workspace essentials that made this year smoother, more creative, and honestly more enjoyable.
If you’re a designer, creative business owner, or building your own workspace, I hope this gives you a little inspiration (or a few ideas for your own wishlist).
Adobe Creative Suite
This is the foundation of my design work. Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign — everything I need to take ideas from concept to final files lives here.
👉 https://adobe.prf.hn/click/camref:1101lKN6K
Standard Issue Planner
I love a clean, minimal planner that doesn’t overwhelm me. This one helps me keep projects, deadlines, and real life organized without feeling cluttered.
👉 https://amzn.to/48K7FLi
MacBook Pro
Fast, reliable, and powerful enough to handle long design days. If design is your daily work, this is a tool that truly earns its place.
👉 https://amzn.to/3Kvu0nT
Office Space Heater
An underrated work-from-home essential. Cozy feet = better focus (especially in the winter months).
👉 https://amzn.to/4oTXJVJ
Focusmate
One of my favorite productivity tools. Virtual co-working sessions that keep me accountable and help me actually finish what I start.
👉 https://www.focusmate.com?_from=kellie29
Photography Coffee Mug
Every creative workspace needs at least one mug that makes you smile. Bonus points if it involves cameras or design.
👉 https://www.etsy.com/listing/1880549783/vintage-camera-ceramic-mug-35mm-film
Cotopaxi Laptop Bag
Durable, colorful, and practical — perfect for carrying tech on workdays, travel days, or coffee shop days.
👉 https://amzn.to/4rJW4EC
iPad + Apple Pencil + Procreate
My favorite setup for sketching ideas, lettering, and creative play away from my computer.
• iPad: https://amzn.to/4iPjMv0
• Apple Pencil: https://amzn.to/48O1plP
• Procreate: https://procreate.com/