The artwork Nikki Cutro conjures up has the innocence of times gone by when stuffed animals came to life and everything was a wonder. She combines this old time charm with bright vivid colors that are not overbearing or domineering and it is not easy finding children's designs that are not mass produced, too commercial or age appropriate.

Each scene seems to tell a story that most people can trace back to their childhood, fishing with Dad or Grandpa, jumping in puddles, tea parties with your imaginary friends or spending the day at the beach and getting sand between your toes. The artwork here also has a certain charm and tenderness. I Wub You reminds us of being cuddled and reassured by mommy. It provokes a feeling of safety and warmth. A Day at the Beach captures the moment perfectly, you can almost hear the seagulls in the background and smell the salty air. There are many scenes like this one, all telling a tale and all relatable.

Of course not everything is aimed at children. Uh Oh! gives the viewer a chuckle as they see a tiny mouse that happens upon a basket full of playful kittens above them reads "It is going to be one of those days" perfect to give someone that can't seem to catch a break. Feed Me Now is a cat sitting by an empty bowl, staring at you with those eyes. This design shows up on a funny greeting card. The cat wishes his person a happy birthday and promptly reminds him he needs to be fed.

13 Black Cats Designs offers many different types of products so you can create a theme gift for that new little bundle on the way, or remember someone that is close to you. Along with the apparel, baby items and adult gifts there are also invitations, congratulations, thank you cards and matching postage too.

This store offers custom work and personalization and has a sister shop on Zazzle and on Greeting Card Universe where you can do that all yourself.

Nikki also is a talented photographer as well as a painter. Her photography catches things we might not see or perhaps we glance by with out a thought. As with her illustrations, each photo tells a story. Her home page can be found on www.13BlackCatsDesigns.com

The designs you see below are all available on children's apparel and bibs, keepsake boxes, baby journals and more. I chose to feature larger items so the artwork could be seen easier.

Give 13 Black Cats Designs a try. I am sure you will like it as much as I do.

Greeting Card Universe