JujuBee Jewelry - Making it count

One of the silver linings to these tough times is the reminder of what is really important. We get the chance to ponder where we want our money to go and what purchases are truly meaningful. For me, buying local and artisan goods is a priority. Today I found a jewelry artist who not only hand makes her items, she also donates her time and talent to Threads of Love.

Threads of Love is a Christian non-profit organization whose members sew, knit, crochet, and embroider items for preemie babies in Neonatal Intensive Care Units all over the country. JujuBee Jewelry has joined the Treads of Love ranks as a designer and maker of Memory Bracelets and Anklets.

Memory Bracelet

One of the unique collections available in JujuBee’s shop are her signature Day-to-Night Earrings. These are a fabulous idea for the girl wanting to be efficient with her time and money. Simply switch out the daytime dangles with the dramatic going-out-for-the-evening set and Voila! You are ready to go.

If the two-for-one deal of the Day-to-Night Earrings is still just a little more than you can handle right now, JujuBee has an even sweeter deal for the DIY types out there. She offers a Day-to-Night Earring Tutorial Kit that includes a 5 page tutorial and all the materials to make your own set for less than half the price!

And for the really budget-minded, Jujubee offers her tutorial for just $3.00. And since it is an e-book, there is no postage to pay.

Obviously, Jujubee Jewelry has put a lot of thought into the items she makes and the people who will cherish them for years to come. You can learn more about Jujubee and her art on her blog.

Miss Pretty Perfect

Bags with personality!

For years the only bag I ever carried was a backpack. Even when we were in the diaper bag stage, I packed all the girls stuff in, yup, a backpack. Goodness forbid I should own something as girly as a purse. However, I have to admit I now own (and use!) a matching collection of bags that includes a tote, overnighter, purse, make-up bag, wallet, and laptop case. Yes, they match! All in the same pattern.

Miss Sasha Sling by Miss Pretty Perfect

I even created the Vida Bonita line of lip balms to match a famous line of bag patterns.

I want to introduce you to an amazing artisan hand bag line: Miss Pretty Perfect. The styles is this line are all named after strong woman worth admiring. Each style comes in several fabric patterns and you can coordinate all your pieces or mix it up to match your different looks.

Miss Nina Petite Messenger Pouch by MPP

La Toya Stevens, the strong woman behind Miss Pretty Perfect is a talented fashion designer based out of North Carolina. Before striking out on her own she worked as a sewer for a private label handbag designer in Union Square.

Dr. Quinn Travel Bag

This is one of my favorite styles: the Miss Amelia Overnight Bag named after the queen of travelers herself, Amelia Earhart. This hobo has a 39” strap to wear across your body while toting your gear across town or across the Atlantic.


Check out the roomy inside complete with four pockets:



The Miss Rosa Gathered Wristlet was inspired by another memorable strong woman: Rosa Parks. Can’t you just picture Ms. Parks sitting on that infamous bus with one of these clutches by MPP on her lap?

Check out Miss Pretty Perfect’s Blog for glimpses of retired and upcoming styles, features of other artisans and special promotions.

Miss Wendy B. Messenger Bag

Connect with this Artist:
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/missprettyperfect
Blog: http://missprettyperfect.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/missprettyperfect
Twitter: http://twitter.com/toiyah

Polymer Clay Gifts for Teacher by Ardna's Sac

It’s that time again – the flowers are blooming, the pools will be opening soon, the ice cream truck is stocked. School is almost over for another year.

Today I have ideas for elegant and affordable gifts from Ardna’s Sac to thank your child’s teacher for all the hours of hard work they invested in your student.

Ardna’s Sac is the shop of polymer clay artist Cassandra. I love the way she came up with the name for her shop. Can you figure it out? The answer is explained in her profile.

How about an Apple for the Teacher? This super cute button is the classic symbol for teacher embossed with a star and stripes. Any teacher, male or female would be proud to sport this badge.
$3.00

If your educator is likes jewelry, then add this necklace and earring set! Gray circle beads and two types of red beads lend an air of sophistication with a touch of fun – the perfect combo for the perfect teacher.

$14.00 - for the set!

Teachers spend HOURS (believe me, I know!) correcting papers and writing notes. How about a one-of-a-kind refillable pen all ready for the next year? This Blossom Pen is sure to make those late nights of grammar and division sheets a little brighter.

$7.00

So what are you waiting for? The prices are right and the thought will definitely count. Head on over to Ardna’s Sac on Etsy.com and start earning your brownie points!

Also, check out Ardna’s Sacs Blog for clay tutorials and reviews of other artisans.