For every occasion: Lisa Lenoir's design success is in the cards.

Lisa Lenoir always knew that there was an artist inside of her, waiting to emerge. And following a romantic breakup five years ago, she decided to set her free. All she needed was an X-ACTO knife, some colored pencils, and good paper stock.

The result? A custom greeting card business that she calls Elle Squared. "It was therapeutic," offers Lenoir.

By day, 37-year-old Lenoir is travel editor for the Chicago Sun-Times. Having previously covered fashion for seven years, she easily incorporates stylish touches into her greeting designs. One note card displays a pomegranate-colored corset with gold closures. The outside reads, "In a pinch?" The inside reads, "Don't worry--I've got your back."

Other creations include unique gift note cards as well as Rosh Hashanah and Hanukkah cards (about $50 for 10) with Yiddish sayings inside. Word of mouth nets most of her orders.

"In the news business, you're always scrutinized, both inside [the newsroom] and out," says Lenoir. "What I love about this is nobody can touch this because it's mine. It's quite liberating."

GETTING STARTED

* Take a class. They are affordable and short term. You will learn the mechanics as well as surround yourself with like-minded creative types. Check out places like Chicago's Discovery Center (www.discoverycenter.cc) and Washington, D.C.'s First Class Inc. (www.takeaclass.org).

* Work for fun. You will make valuable contacts and discover if you've really found your niche. For three years, Lenoir spent weekends moonlighting at a Chicago art and frame shop.