Whimsical, Handcrafted Children’s Book Illustration & Publishing
Beautiful Books Begin Here
Whether you need a magical illustrator or full publishing guidance, I help children’s book authors bring their stories to life—from first sketch to final print—with warmth, intention, and a deep love of storytelling.
Looking for a children’s book illustrator who understands the self-publishing process? The Painted Acorn offers custom character design, full-page spreads, and book covers to bring your picture book to life. Based in Canada, I create warm, handcrafted illustrations that connect with young readers—and collaborate with indie authors in Canada, the US, and around the world to turn their stories into beautiful, professional books.
Handcrafted offerings to
support your publishing journey
Choose from three thoughtfully crafted tiers to guide you through the self-publishing journey — from your very first idea to beautifully formatted, print-ready files.
The Sprouting Acorn
Essential publishing support
For authors who already have
illustrations and need layout
and guidance to bring it all together.
The Growing
Oak
Illustration & storytelling support
Perfect for authors with a manuscript who need custom, heartfelt illustrations.
The Mighty
Oak
Full-service publishing
From first sketch to print-ready book — with guidance at every step.
Stories told with heart, crafted in collaboration.
Every children’s book I illustrate is shaped through
a creative process grounded in trust, curiosity, and care.
“Kezzia is an incredibly talented and
professional illustrator to work with. As soon
as I saw her sketches, I knew I had found my illustrator. Kezzia had an uncanny ability to
read my mind and translate my thoughts to life. Her talent aside, she is also a wonderful and genuine person to work with. I look forward to many more collaborations in the future.”
Tamara Anand -
Author “Goose and Moose Go Camping”
“Kezzia is passionate about her work, and it is heart-warming to see her connect deeply with the characters, bringing them to life in such phenomenal illustrations. My vision soon became our vision. She is fun to work with, honest, and thoughtful. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her — her attention to detail
is second-to-none.”
Charlie Taylor -
Author - the “Broken Twigs” Series
“She was completely present and supportive throughout all the stages of development of my two picture books and one set of activity cards. Kezzia listens mindfully to my requests and takes any suggestions into consideration thoughtfully and respectfully. She has become a dear friend who I trust completely to create illustrations that remain dear to readers for years to come.”
Sherry-Lynne Kirschner -
Author “Marvin the Marmot” series
Award-winning stories that stay with readers.
The children’s books I’ve illustrated have gone on to earn national awards and indie honors — not for prestige, but because they were crafted with care. It’s a reminder that heartfelt storytelling, paired with thoughtful illustration, leaves a lasting impression.
