My Journey to Twilight Sun Studios
- Carly Hodges
- Mar 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 21
When I think back to the very beginning of my passion for hand-lettering and custom signs, I remember the simple joy of holding a pen. It wasn’t just about writing words; it was about creating something beautiful and unique with every stroke. That love for pens and lettering has shaped my life and led me to start Twilight Sun Studios, a place where creativity meets craftsmanship for every special occasion.
Discovering My Passion Early On
As a child, I was captivated by the variety of styles in which letters could be created. I loved sketching wedding dresses (Princess Diana's was a favorite) and doodling bubble letters, finding joy in every moment. I dedicated hours to practicing with pens, pencils, and markers, often writing backwards purely for amusement. Mirror lettering became, and still is, a quirky habit that allows me to view letters from a different angle and hone my skills. This playful experimentation was the groundwork for my future endeavors.
One of my earliest jobs was at Hy-Vee, where I learned the value of hard work, taking care of customers, and attention to detail. There, one of the roles I had was creating product signs and painting the front foyer window. This was among my favorites of the many roles I eventually held there. These experiences taught me that quality and care make a difference, no matter the job.
the "leap" to Twilight Sun Studios
Starting Twilight Sun Studios was a natural step in turning my childhood passion into a business. I wanted to create custom signs that weren’t just decorations but meaningful pieces that tell a story. Each project is a chance to bring someone’s vision to life with hand-lettered designs that stand out.
Twilight Sun Studios was started officially on Leap Year Day 2024.
I focus on high-quality results because I know how important these signs are for my clients. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a business event, every sign carries a personal touch that makes the occasion memorable. I use the best materials and take the time to perfect every detail, ensuring the final product feels special and unique.

Stories Behind the Signs
I've designed signs for a variety of special occasions, including birthdays, celebrations, Easter, New Year's Eve, teacher gifts, welcoming a new pastor at a church in North Liberty, a family's first cruise, back-to-school events, and many others. I love crafting signs and banners for such diverse events and connecting with local customers!
What Makes Twilight Sun Studios Different
The personal connection I build with each client sets Twilight Sun Studios apart. I take the time to understand their story and what they want to express through their signs. This collaboration ensures that the final product is not just beautiful but meaningful.
Explore What I Offer
If you’re looking for custom signs with a personal touch, I invite you to explore the services at Twilight Sun Studios. From hand-lettered wedding signs to birthday banners, there’s something for every occasion. I’m happy to work with you to create a design that fits your style and needs perfectly.
Feel free to reach out with your ideas or questions (twilightsunstudios@gmail.com). Following Twilight Sun Studios on social media is a great way to see recent projects and get inspiration for your own custom signs.
Bringing Your Vision to Life
Every sign I create starts with a story, your story. My goal is to bring that story to life with hand-lettering that captures the emotion and spirit of your special moment. Whether you want something elegant, playful, or bold, I’m here to help make it happen.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey and the heart behind Twilight Sun Studios. I look forward to creating something beautiful together!


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