Karen Elaine studied fine arts and technical theater in college. She is the Creative Director for Yasutomo and Company where she teaches art and craft workshops at National trade and art shows, develops new products, creates and maintains the company websites and is involved in product development and education. She is a regular guest on HGTV's Carol Duvall Show and DIY Network where she combines her experience as a fine artist with her passion for paper to create unique and distinctive techniques with a more traditional craft. She is the author of several booklets created for Yasutomo entitled Mingei Crafts and Mizuhiki Magic Jewelry, Knots and Greeting Cards.
She has contributed to several Design Originals books such as Washi Paper Crafts, Paper Artistry and More Money Folding. Her artwork has been featured in numerous trade and consumer magazines such as American Artist, Rubber Stamper and Paper Crafts. Her first full length instructional DVD, "Fold It with Karen Thomas " was released in fall 2004 and has received great reviews. She is now appearing on Crafttvweekly.com, a web based scrapbooking channel.

Karen is currently writing a paper crafts book with Random House/Potter Craft which will be released in early 2009.