Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an artist or designer?

Nope.  No design or artistic skills are required.  I break down the entire design process into simple steps and hold your hand every step of the way.  You only need an eagerness to learn, an openness to let yourself be creative, and courage to try something new.

What is the course format?

The course is primarily videos made up of slides that give visual examples and step-by-step instructions for your design project.  My voice is recorded and leads you through each video, just like I'm right there teaching you one-on-one.  There are also worksheets (in downloadable PDF format) that correspond with some of the videos.  The slideshows can be downloaded and printed so that you have notes to refer to as you complete the design steps.

What kind of support is available if I have questions?

If you have any questions, just send an email to admin@myownediblelandscape.com.  I will send a personal response within three business days.

Will I have to pay the course fee again if I don’t finish it right away?

Nope.  It's a one-time course fee that gives you lifetime access to the course.  You can complete the course at your own pace.

Can I share my username and password with my friend so that we can split the cost?

No.  Each person needs to purchase a license for their own course and will have a unique login and password.  Your username may not be shared, sold, or given away.  Please refer to the Terms of Use and Terms and Conditions for full details.

How long will it take me to complete the course?

The course is designed to be completed at your own pace.  Estimate about two to three months from start to finish if you spend some time working on it each week.  The course is jam-packed with a complete landscape design education that is meant to set you up for success, rather than get your design done ASAP. 

The course consists of eight modules and there's an average of 3 videos per module.  In general, the first video in each module is a short intro for that module.  The remaining videos are a combination of design education and step-by-step instructions for you to follow to create your own design.  Some modules will take longer to complete than others, and all of them are important for a successful design project.

Will my design be drawn to scale?

Yes!  The first step is to measure your site.  The second step is to draw it to scale.  I'll teach you everything you need to know to create a base map that's drawn to scale so that your design is an accurate representation of your space.  You will build onto your base map throughout the course.  

What’s the benefit of drawing my design to scale?

You'll be able to see exactly where each plant will be located in your design.  This is necessary for planning and proper plant spacing, among many other things that we will discuss in the course.

What other materials will I need to create my design?

Recommended

large sheet of paper (You’ll determine what size you need in Module 2); blank paper (for measurements in Module 1); graph paper is optional; circle template (set of 2), masking tape / artist’s tape; pencil, pencil sharpener, and eraser; tape measure; tracing paper (several sheets at least the size of your drawing paper) or a roll of tracing paper; triangles (set of 2)

Optional

architect’s scale; clipboard; colored pencils or markers; designer’s eraser; drawing compass; drawing pens (4 professional drawing pens in the following weights: 01, 03 or 05, 08, 1); flash drive (for saving digital files of your design); french curves (set of 4); sharpie marker (black); t-square; white-out pen

Where can I buy the drawing tools for the course?

Your local art supply store should have everything you need.  If not, items may be ordered online from your favorite retailer.

Should I buy my materials before I enroll in the course?

You can shop as needed throughout the course, or use the shopping guide provided within the course to purchase your supplies after you enroll. 

Are there any other fees I will need to pay throughout the course?

The only other fees will be for copies.  There are a few times during the course when I tell you to make copies of your design at your local copy shop.  The cost will depend on the size of your design, how many copies you make, and whether or not you also scan and save a digital copy of your design.  Expect to pay about $5-15 for copies a few times throughout the course.

What if I enroll but decide that it’s not a good fit for me?

If the course isn't a good fit, email me directly (rachel@myownediblelandscape.com) within 14 days of your purchase date.  I will issue you a full refund. Read the Terms of Use for full details (link in footer).

How long will I have access to the course?

You will have lifetime access to the course.  Your course membership will not expire.

Are future course updates included or do I need to pay extra for those?

All future updates to the course will be available free of charge.  I'll notify you by email (unless you opt-out of course emails) to let you know that new course material is available. I’ll also tell you where to find it within the course website. 

How will the final design be customized for my yard?

You will start designing for your unique outdoor space from the very beginning.  In Modules 1 and 2, you will learn how to measure your space and create a base map.  Then we will spend some time making observations about your site.  These observations are key to creating a design that works for your unique space and also meets your needs.  The rest of the course builds on these initial design steps and at the end of the course, you will have a completed professional-quality design that’s specific to your space.

What if I already have some landscaping?

That's totally fine (and really common).  I'll teach you how to locate existing trees and shrubs and add them directly to your base map so that they can become part of your design.  There are also times when you might like to remove some plants and start fresh.  This is fine too.  I'll go over how to work around these different issues so that your design is exactly how you want it.

Can I purchase the course as a gift for someone else?

Of course!  I would recommend collaborating directly with the person you're purchasing the course for so that you can enroll them using their name and email address.  This will ensure a correct username and password, and allow the recipient to opt-in to course emails.