Lettering & Licensing with Shannon McNab
DATES: June 3-7, 2025
FEE: $1,990
Hand lettering is an incredible skill to hone as an artist – especially if you license your art or do freelance client work – it also doesn't have to be complicated!
We'll start simple focusing on single letters to get your creative juices flowing and by the end of the retreat you'll have learned how to create dynamic, multi-word lettering designs.
Shannon also loves mixing art and business, so there'll also be a discussion (and Q&A) about licensing and a group feedback session. You'll leave not only having made a few lettering-loving friends, but will be full of inspiration and know how to make spectacular portfolio designs in the future!
P.S. While this retreat focuses on artists wanting to license their lettering, everyone – including hobbyists – are welcome to attend!
Licensing & Lettering Retreat Schedule
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4:30 pm | Wine + cheese mixer
6:00 pm | Welcome dinner
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9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast
10:00 am | Morning art session
Letter style exploration & creating a style idea bank– break for lunch –
2:00 pm | Afternoon art session
Word style exploration: serif, sans serif, and script6:00 pm | Simple in-studio dinner
– post-dinner studio time is available –
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8:30 am | Early studio access
9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast
10:00 am | Morning art session
Short phrases 3-ways using commonly licensed phrases– break for lunch –
2:00 pm | Afternoon art session
Open studio time or time to explore surrounding VT on your own/in small groups.6:00 pm | Dinner at local restaurant*
– post-dinner studio time is available –
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8:30 am | Early studio access
9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast
10:00 am | Morning art session
Discussion of licensing considerations for lettering (w/ time for Q&A)– break for lunch –
2:00 pm | Afternoon art session
Multi-word advanced layouts using arcs & slants6:00 pm | Dinner at The Smiley
– post-dinner studio time is available –
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8:30 am | Early studio access
9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast
10:00 am | Morning art session
Group art critique + continue working on advanced piece1:00 pm | Light lunch & goodbyes
– optional studio time until 5pm –
*Not included in retreat fee. Date of dinner out also subject to restaurant availability.
About Shannon McNab
Shannon is an American surface designer, educator, and agent living in Dublin, Ireland who has been designing exuberant patterns and hand lettering for almost a decade. She’s collaborated with brands like Papyrus, Design House Greetings, Workman Publishing, Entryways and Pyrex.
She also loves to teach others how to build a thriving art business through her website, Sketch Design Repeat. Shannon’s particularly passionate about tacking confusing topics, like pricing or how to license artwork. Her aim is to make them easier to understand and empower artists to advocate for themselves when working with companies.
“I loved so much about this retreat… Being surrounded by professional artists and piles of art supplies, laughing over the idea of a sweaty bra business & learning from professional illustrators, seeing the potential life that art could bring, the peace of Vermont, and making new friends!”
— Gabriella
2024 Smiley retreat participant
Where You’ll Be Creating
Springfield, Vermont
The Smiley Manse Barn
Nestled up behind the main property is the barn. This turn of the last century post-and-beam construction with a slate roof that rises to a massive walled cupola, the barn is noted as one of the finest carriage barns in the region. Learn more about the history of The Smiley here.
Inside, you’ll find large flat work tables, each a place to explore and express your individual creativity, yet the atmosphere encourages connection and dialogue. Whether it’s the sound of a paintbrush sweeping across the page or folks discussing technique over coffee, the barn serves as a meeting ground for artists of all levels to create and build lasting relationships, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
We strive to create a space where the act of making art is as much about building community as it is about self-expression.
Join us for a chance to unwind and create in an idyllic setting.
Your Retreat Includes:
Custom designed art curriculum by Shannon
3.5 days of creative instruction
Extra studio access before/after each full day
All meals (except 1 dinner out)
Welcome wine mixer serenaded by a local musician
Tea, coffee, and snacks always available in the barn
Usage of our art supply stash during the retreat
Private FB group before/after the retreat
What’s Not Included:
Accommodations – there are several great options nearby!
Transportation to/from The Smiley
1 dinner out at a local restaurant