preorder
Move Slow & Make Things
You Were Made to Create
Efficiency. Technology. Convenience. Productivity. In today’s culture, there’s constant pressure to do more, grow bigger, and go faster. But what if a slower pace could lead to something richer and more satisfying?
Marian Parsons, the creative mind behind the beloved Miss Mustard Seed website and brand, wants to help you reawaken your creative spirit. Move Slow and Make Things offers thoughtful guidance, hands-on exercises, and real-life examples to equip you in your pursuit of meaning and contentment. As you begin to see the world through the eyes of a maker, you’ll find beauty everywhere and rediscover your God-given potential to create wonderful things.
You were made to create—at your own pace. Let Marian show you how.
Buy Move Slow & Make Things Here
Grab your preorder bonuses!
- Access to a 6-part bonus audio series from Marian on creativity
- Journal prompts to help you value your own creativity
- A collection of smartphone wallpapers featuring photography from the book
- More bonuses to come, including an exclusive digital print of Marian’s art and giveaways you won’t want to miss!
Preorder before the release date of September 1, 2026, to qualify for bonuses.
Move Slow
Make Things
If you…
don’t consider yourself to be creative
need a gentle reminder to start creating again
want to explore more creative pursuits
want to reignite your creative passion
are curious about how to get started
need a pep talk from a creative kindred spirit
…this book is for you!
MARIAN PARSONS is a paint enthusiast, encourager, and lover of all things home and creativity. She is the author of Feels Like Home and Inspired You. Her prints and products are available through major retailers including Target, Hobby Lobby and HomeGoods. Marian lives in Washington County, Maryland, with her husband, Jeff, their two sons, a dog, and two cats.
Published Work
Feels like home
Every home should feel like a custom home and not have to break the bank. No matter how many neighborhood twins your suburban home may have, this home would be uniquely yours. That typical four-square colonial or mid-century rancher can be transformed into a character-rich home that is beautifully customized to meet your specific tastes and needs.
Inspired you
Marian will remind you that homes don’t have to be magazine material to be special, comfortable, and inviting. The goal you’re working toward is home. Not a perfect home. Not an “impress the neighbors” home. Just home—one whose walls and rooms tell the story of the family who lives there. Beautiful homes start with inspiration and a willingness to try. So uncover your God-given creativity. Be encouraged, be willing, and be inspired.”
From the Studio
latest artistic endeavors
creative inspiration from behind the brush
Whether it’s a new painting in progress, a favorite art supply, or a moment of creative reflection, this is where I share what’s happening in the studio. These posts are meant to encourage, inspire, and invite you into the beauty of the artistic process—no perfection required, just a love for learning and making.
Art Supplies & Studio Favorites
tools, books, and materials
Over the years, I’ve found a handful of art supplies and resources that I return to again and again. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your collection, these are the brushes, paints, surfaces, and books I personally use in the studio. I hope this helps you feel equipped, inspired, and encouraged to keep creating.
Creative moments, captured in brushstrokes.
Watch & Paint Along
Sometimes the best way to learn is simply by watching someone else enjoy the process. In these videos, I share painting sessions, tips, and glimpses into my studio practice—meant to inspire you to pick up your brush and paint at your own pace. Whether you’re learning something new or just want a bit of creative company, you’re welcome here.
Explore painting at your own pace—no experience needed
Free Art Classes for the Creative at Heart
While the world slowed down in the spring of 2020, I found connection and creativity by offering live art classes each Friday—just a simple way to share something joyful during uncertain times. What began as a small spark turned into something truly special. After receiving such kind and encouraging feedback, I decided to turn those lessons into a free online course. Inside, you’ll find nine beginner-friendly oil painting classes covering everything from mixing colors to painting a sweet grazing cow. It’s a gentle, joy-filled place to start (or continue) your painting journey.