Brush + Banter Podcast
Ep. 3 with Olga Muzician
and Lauren Hull

If there’s one universal truth about creative work, it’s this: things get messy before they get beautiful. Whether it’s a half-painted dresser or a mural that looks nothing like the sketch, every artist has had that “what have I done?!” moment.

In the latest episode of Zibra’s podcast, Brush + Banter, hosts Annie and Lauren dive straight into that messy middle with two artists who know it well: muralist and lettering artist Olga Muzician and furniture flipper–turned–content creator Lauren Hull. Together, they unpack what really happens between inspiration and completion. That includes everything from the chaos, to the self-doubt, and finally the growth that comes from 

The Beauty in the “Ugly Phase”

Olga and Lauren both agree: the ugly phase is not only unavoidable, but also an essential part of the creative process. It tests your patience, your confidence, and sometimes might even reduce you to a mini meltdown.

Olga shared that, for her, even massive murals can make her question the process. But with time, layers, and persistence, clarity always comes by the end. Lauren echoed a similar sentiment from her own experience flipping furniture: “I’ve definitely learned that every project takes way longer than maybe you’ve allotted for because [something] popped up.” 

Their advice? Don’t fight the mess. Expect it and embrace it. While the middle might feel uncertain, it’s also where transformation happens.

Finding Flow (and Joy) with the Right Tools

Every creator has a few tools they can’t live without, and both Olga and Lauren had plenty to say about their favorite Zibra brushes that make those messy moments just a little smoother.

For Lauren Hull of Furniture Flipping Teacher:

Small Artist Brushes — her must-haves for detail painting and tiny touch-ups.

Oval Brush — her go-to for large surface areas because “it holds so much paint.”

Palm Pro Brush — perfect for flat spots, and comfortable enough for long painting sessions because it fits so well in her hand.

For Olga Muzician of Olga Muzician Studio:

¼” Triangle Brush — “my go-to for almost everything,” Olga says. “It's great for smaller lettering, illustrations, and especially things with corners or points, like leaves, edges of script lettering, etc.”

1” Square Brush — her first Zibra brush and still a favorite. “Amazing for outlining larger objects and lettering. It holds so much paint and makes such clean and opaque lines, eliminating the need for many coats.”

½” Round Brush — a new love of hers. “It's just so satisfying to paint with. I love painting flowers and clouds with this one.”  

The Messy Middle Meets the Right Bundle

Because every artist hits a point where the right brush can make all the difference, Zibra just launched three “Bundle & Save” Brush Sets designed for real-world creators:

Detail Bundle — for precision edges and fine work

Walls & Trim Bundle — for coverage and control on large surfaces

Furniture Flipping Bundle — the refinisher’s dream toolkit

Dream Projects and Creative Momentum

Both Olga and Lauren are already dreaming big for what’s next.

For Lauren, that means bringing her artistry home: “I’d love to fill my entire house with furniture all done by me.”

For Olga, the dream scales up: “I’d love to collaborate with a big brand or paint a custom mural for a hotel—something public and bold. A giant faux stained-glass floral mural would be amazing.”

Their visions couldn’t be more different, but their message is the same: creativity thrives when you keep showing up, even when the work feels uncertain.

Keep Listening

To hear the full conversation, including how Olga and Lauren navigate frustration, find small wins, and encourage others through the creative process, listen to “The Messy Middle of a Project… and Your Career as an Artist”. And listen to all previous episodes here!

Follow their journeys at:

Olga Muzician:

• Website
• TikTok
• Instagram

Lauren Hull (Furniture Flipping Teacher):

• Website
• Facebook
• YouTube
• TikTok
• Instagram