As a self-taught creative juggling art, mental health advocacy, pet content, and online shops, I depend on a handful of digital tools that make everything run smoother—and more me. Whether I’m designing a new product for my Zazzle shop, creating a blog post on mental health, or making a fun reel for Instagram, these tools are my go-to favorites. Here’s what’s in my digital tool kit and why I absolutely love each one.
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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
This tablet is my creative sidekick. It’s portable, responsive, and perfect for both designing and decompressing. I use it for drawing, video editing, and even content scheduling on the go.
Why I love it:
The included S Pen is smooth and satisfying to use—great for sketching or note-taking.
Multitasking with split-screen mode helps me write blog drafts and mood board at the same time.
Long battery life means I can take it from coffee shop to couch with zero stress.
*** I know im probably the only createor that recommends Android but theirs now Krita for android. I just prefer android os. You can’t use apps like the Adobe or Affnity Suite but or Procreate but I feel Krita combines all three kinda.
Pro Tip:
Download GoodNotes or Penup for sketching ideas when inspiration hits. Also, pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard for blog writing on the move. (Comes with pen)
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Canva Pro
Honestly, I couldn’t run my shop or blog without Canva Pro. From Pinterest graphics to product mockups, this is the easiest design tool for non-designers (and even pros who want to save time).
Why I love it:
The premium templates make everything look polished.
Magic Resize is a game-changer for repurposing content across platforms.
I use it for everything from mood boards to banner ads to printable downloads.
Pro Tip:
Use Brand Kits to save your fonts, colors, and logos—it speeds up the design process big time!
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CapCut
If you’ve seen my reels, there’s a good chance they were edited with CapCut. It’s beginner-friendly but powerful enough to make trending videos that pop.
Why I love it:
Pre-made templates and auto captions save me hours.
The editing timeline is super intuitive—even for short-form content newbies.
It integrates easily with TikTok and Instagram.
Pro Tip:
Use CapCut’s “Text-to-Speech” or “Voice Effects” to add personality to your videos without having to talk on camera (introverts, unite!).
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️ Picsart
Think of Picsart as a pocket Photoshop with way less overwhelm. I use it to edit product mockups, add fun overlays, and give photos that artsy vibe.
Why I love it:
I can remove backgrounds in one tap.
Tons of filters, stickers, and effects for a creative twist.
Great for editing lifestyle shots when I don’t have pro photos.
Pro Tip:
Use the “Dispersion” or “Sketch” effects to make eye-catching social media graphics or Zazzle product previews!
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️ Placeit.net
Product mockups have never been easier. Placeit lets me upload my designs and instantly see how they’ll look on tees, mugs, bandanas, and more.
Why I love it:
Thousands of mockup templates that look realistic and professional.
I can preview my products on diverse models, pets, and home settings.
No Photoshop needed!
Pro Tip:
Batch-create mockups for a product launch by uploading one design and applying it to multiple templates all at once. It saves so much time!
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ChatGPT (That’s me!)
Of course, I’m going to mention ChatGPT—because it’s a huge part of how I brainstorm, write blog content (like this), and get caption ideas when I’m stuck.
Why I love it:
Helps me beat creative block, especially on tough mental health days.
Offers SEO tips, blog outlines, and product description help.
Like a writing buddy who gets my voice and brand.
Pro Tip:
Use ChatGPT to create content calendars, story prompts, or even brainstorm new product ideas for your shop. Don’t be afraid to ask it weird questions—it handles them well
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Final Thoughts:
This digital toolkit helps me stay organized, inspired, and creatively fulfilled—without feeling burnt out or boxed in. You don’t need a fancy studio or expensive camera to make amazing content. Just the right tools, a little passion, and a willingness to experiment.
✨ Want to see my digital toolkit in action? Follow me on Instagram @shopabbyscreativeescape and check out my blog for behind-the-scenes tips and tools I actually use.
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Would you like me to design a graphic for this toolkit post or turn it into a downloadable checklist for your audience?
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