Painting Little Women

Louisa May Alcott’s Classic Reimagined

Welcome to Orchard House… I’m excited to share a behind-the-scenes peek at how my Little Women story map came to life. This beloved tale of sisterhood, creativity, and coming of age has long been close to my heart—and it was a joy to reimagine it on paper.

📗 Click HERE to browse over 40 Story Maps.

This Story map was inspired by Louisa May Alcott's incredibly popular novel.

It's so popular that there are four movies based of the book. I wonder which is your favorite?! Mine is the 1994 version with Winona Ryder.

👂🏼 First things first. I begin by listening to the full length book on Audible. I also keep a copy of the book and read some chapters. I mainly do this because I'm in the car so much shuttling kids.

This book is about 17 hours long! Oh my goodness. Since I'm in the car a ton I am amazed at how fast I can listen to a book like this. I also listen while walking the dog...

"Little Women Story Map" Large Sizes A framed Little Women Map

Here’s a glimpse into the process:

📝 Chapter notes of characters and locations scribbled in my sketchbook

✏️ Next I begin to sketch from imagination and photos of cottages and countryside strolls.

🎭 Subtle tributes to each sister’s unique spark (yes, there’s a nod to Amy's painting!)

🖋️ After my sketch is just how I like it, I trace over it with an architectural pen.

🎨 Now its time to test color for the March’s iconic moments. I spend a lot of time getting colors right. When I say "right" I really just mean the way that I imagine the story.

🖌️ Let's paint! This part takes about two days. I let part of it dry and I always like to study my painting on day two to see it with fresh eyes.

➡️ Click HERE to view the finished map! It's a big job but someone has to do it!

Whether you're drawn to Beth’s quiet kindness or Jo’s fiery independence, I hope this piece brings a touch of Little Women magic to your space.

Every piece tells a story, and I’m so grateful to share them with you!

⭐ Click HERE to see all Little Women gifts. ⭐

Happy reading,

Text in a land far, far away! and signature with paintbrush.

P.S. Would you like to paint Little Women? I've heard from a lot of you!

If so I have made Coloring Pages of Story Maps ready for watercolors, markers or colored pencils. Great for adults to relax and color or share with a child, friend or family member.