About Cru Paper Studio
Why I create
Meet Cru
The story, heart, and purpose behind Cru Paper Studio
Sharing my creativity is deeply important to me because I know what it feels like to walk through hard seasons. From a young age, I struggled with depression and anxiety, and those challenges followed me into adulthood. At times, the weight of it all felt overwhelming. Through God's grace, the support of my loved ones, and the courage to seek help, I began learning the tools I needed to cope, heal, and keep moving forward.
My faith has been an anchor throughout that journey. It reminds me that even in the heaviest moments, I am never alone. God has carried, comforted, and strengthened me in ways I cannot fully put into words. Healing has not always been quick or easy, but my faith continues to remind me that hope, purpose, and peace can be found even in the process.
How Cru Paper Studio Began
During the pandemic, I found myself coloring again. When I grew tired of watching television and reorganizing my home, coloring became a relaxing, enjoyable way to reconnect with my creativity.
As I explored different coloring books, I realized many did not suit my style or reflect my culture. I wanted books I could truly relate to—books that felt creative and meaningful, made for adults. So I began designing my own, drawing inspiration from my fondest memories and favorite hobbies. That creative journey led to my first coloring book, Let's Bake. The rest, as they say, is history.
Hi, my name is Cruzsilla Gutiérrez, but my family and friends call me Cru. I am the founder and creative heart of Cru Paper Studio.
Growing up, I loved drawing, writing, and all things collectible. A trip to Sanrio meant begging my mom for pens, stationery, stickers, or anything else that caught my eye. I collected unique erasers, pens, pencils, stickers, and Barbies - and honestly, that excitement never left me. I still light up over a bouquet of colorful pens or a brand-new journal. Silly as it may sound, paper goods have always brought me joy.
Creativity, Care, and Mental Health Awareness
Every person's journey is deeply personal. I feel called to encourage others to explore creativity as one gentle way to care for themselves. Coloring is not just for children. It can be a quiet and meaningful way to slow down, breathe, reflect, and make space for calm.
Mental health awareness matters deeply to me, especially in communities where struggles are often hidden behind silence or stigma. I want my work to be part of a more compassionate conversation - one that reminds people that needing support does not make them weak and that seeking help is not a lack of faith. I believe God can work through many forms of healing, including prayer, community, counseling, creativity, and rest.
The Heart Behind the Studio
Through my coloring books, journals, stickers, and paper goods, I hope to create more than beautiful products. I want each one to offer a gentle reminder of peace, hope, faith, culture, creativity, or care. If even one person feels encouraged, comforted, represented, or seen through this work, then it is worth it.
Be Kind to Your Mind and Create!
A Gentle Note:
Cru Paper Studio supports mental health awareness through creativity and reflection, but its products are not a substitute for professional mental health care.
If you are in the United States and need immediate mental health support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
You matter!