ACBDD Special Edition: Deb’s diamond art dazzles

Below is an excerpt from the ACBDD’s 2026 Special Edition, which is produced in partnership with Ohio University’s E.W. Scripps School of Journalism and The Post. The full edition can be found here.

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By Jack Kiamie

Deb Morrison’s passion for resin-diamond art began in 2020 when her sister, Heather, purchased a kit for her. Deb quickly learned that her new hobby required more than just creativity.

“Patience. It takes a lot of patience to be able to do it,” she said.

Initially, she needed help lining up the tiny beads (or “diamonds”), using the diamond-painting pen tool, and following the patterns. “When I first started,” said Morrison. “All my beads were kind of crooked until I started getting faster around them and straightened them out a little bit.”

Five years later, Morrison now creates her beautiful designs almost entirely on her own — vibrant scenes of glowing flowers and shimmering waterfalls. She only asks for help when needed, such as to purchase kits and diamond pieces online or get help with unfamiliar instructions.

Over time, Morrison’s confidence in her work has grown. She now loves to showcase her art around her home. She beams when others compliment her on the wide variety of colorful paintings she created– from starry skies to cozy cabins. Deb also now gives her art as gifts to friends and family on Christmas, birthdays and Mother’s Day. She dreams of one day selling her paintings as well.

Morrison’s initial interest in diamond art ignited into a passion for creating beautiful artwork. It provides her independence, pride, and lots of joy.

Diamond art also helps Morrison manage anxiety. It gives her focus and provides comfort when she is nervous.

Bianca Sankar, service and support administrator for the ACBDD, said she and other staff members have noticed that Morrison gravitates toward her diamond art and works more intently when she’s troubled.

“You can see that she’s definitely found a purpose that makes her happy and gives her an outlet to (manage) some of her big feelings,” Sankar said. “It just really has brought positivity to her life.”

Edited by doctoral student Matt Fitzgerald