Cricut Contributing Artist series: Manal Khalaf

In the vibrant world of Cricut crafting, few artists stand out, like Manal Khalaf, a dynamic contributing artist from Ontario, Canada. With a unique blend of creativity and technical skill, Manal has carved out a niche for herself, creating designs that inspire and delight Cricut users worldwide. Join us as we explore Manal’s artistic journey and where she finds the creative inspiration seen in her designs.

How did you find Cricut, and why did you join the Contributing Artist Program? 

It all started when I received numerous customer requests to create custom SVG designs tailored for Cricut machines. This piqued my interest in understanding the technical requirements to craft easy-to-cut, high-quality, and unique designs for Cricut enthusiasts. I’m fortunate to be part of an incredible community of talented and friendly Cricut users. Through this network, I was referred to the Contributing Artist Program by Amal Al Said, who is a fellow Cricut Contributing Artist. 

Where did your artistic journey begin? 

I’ve had a special connection to art since I was around 10. Sketching with pencil was my passion, and I vividly remember how much I enjoyed experimenting with painting and photo editing software on our home PC at a young age. Designing was initially just a hobby, a gateway to another dimension. I spent years working in a completely different field before I finally got to start MKDesigns and elevate my digital illustration skills to a professional level. 

What does creativity mean to you? 

For me, creativity means interpreting things and ideas in your own unique way and being confident about it—of course, without harming others. It’s about seeing the world through your lens and translating that vision into your art. 

Who or what inspires you to create, and why? 

Inspiration is the driving force behind an artist’s motivation to create with love. My inspiration can come from various places, events, or people, but it’s always fueled by positivity, beauty, and good vibes. These elements ignite my creativity and push me to create something meaningful. 

What is your favorite type of craft, or what project have you created that you are most proud of? 

While I’ve always been more inclined towards the designing aspect, I’ve discovered the joy of creating projects that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also useful to others. The Cricut Maker 3 has made this process incredibly fun! I am particularly proud of two projects: the Ballerina Wall Decor – Dotting Art and the 3rd Day of Making – Winter Ornament. Both have significantly impacted and hold a special place in my heart. 

Describe your artistic style in one word. 

It’s a bit challenging to pin down in one word, as my style tends to evolve based on what inspires me at the moment. However, if I had to describe it, I’d say it’s a blend of line art, geometric art, and abstract art. Each piece reflects a different facet of my artistic journey. 

Aside from the necessities, what is one thing you could not go a day without? 

Coffee! It’s my daily dose of energy and creativity booster. 

Other than design, what else would you consider as your happy place? 

The movies! There’s something magical about immersing oneself in a different world and story. They provide a wonderful escape and a source of inspiration. 

Manal’s journey from a young sketch artist to a celebrated Cricut contributing artist is truly inspiring. Her dedication to her craft and ability to draw inspiration from the world around her makes her a beloved figure in the Cricut community. Keep an eye out for Manal’s latest designs and projects—they will bring creativity and beauty to your crafting endeavors! 

Interested in seeing more Contributing Artist images and designs? Check out all of our artists in Design Space!