becky's buttons & things

Valentines Day Giveaway

2012-01-27T12:28:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is right around the corner and I'm in the mood for a giveaway! Leave a comment on this post about your favorite love song of all time and get a chance to win a Valentines Day Diorama for the special person in your life. The winner will be announced Monday February 6th and will able to choose their diorama from the Valentines Gifts Section in my Etsy shop.

As for my favorite love song of all times, it would have to be The Book of Love by The Magnetic Fields

Remember to check back on Monday February 6th to see if you're the winner!

xoxo

becky

FACTORY | made

2012-01-21T07:34:00.000-08:00

I spent the other day in Boulder researching boutiques and this one was on the top of my list, FACTORY | made. This store front offers two concepts under one curated roof. The FACTORY is a collaborative creative lab offering sewing and fabrication workspace, machines and tools, a digital media lab and music/production resources — along with classes and workshops, art and design-related events, performances, speakers, and community meetups.

made is an indie-modern market and showroom located within the FACTORY that carries innovative goods, furnishings, fashion and accessories by local artists and designers, and select American manufacturers.

Here's a peek at made...

Belt buckles and earrings by Mukee

Jewelry by l.darling

Jewelry by Swear Jar Design

Jewelry by Nathan Hall

Affinitas Apothecary

I am excited to see what FACTORY | made has in store for the local creative community. If you haven't already, make sure to stop by and check them out.

happy exploring!

xoxo

becky

Valentines Day Promo!

2012-01-14T08:19:00.001-08:00

Valentines Day is right around the corner and becky's buttons & things has some great gift ideas that will blow your sweetheart away!

Mini Valentines Dioramas

My Deer Buttons

Security Envelope Silouette Heart Buttons

Also as a special bonus for you this Valentines Day, use the coupon code VALENTINE2012 on my Etsy site for 25% off your entire purchase.

Happy Valentines Day!

xoxo

becky

Happy Crafty New Year!

2012-01-06T07:45:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe it's 2012 already. 2011 was a great year for me personally. I was able to focus more time on my creative endeavors and really saw growth in my business. I was fortunate enough to participate in the 2011 Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market series, a variety of trunk shows and pop up shops and the 4th Annual Fancy Tiger Holiday Handmade.

I have already started applying for Spring markets and am working on a promotion for Valentines Day which is right around the corner, so keep an eye out. Also in 2012 I plan on expanding my business on a national level. If you know of any great boutiques in your area that you think becky's buttons & things would be a good fit for, let me know.

Happy Crafty New Year!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-12-28T07:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks to FaithsBizzar for including my Winter Mini Diorama in her treasury of miniature things.

Happy Shopping!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-12-22T07:34:00.000-08:00

Thanks to AngelaDesign for including my Security Envelope Heart Buttons in her treasury of Upcycled Security Envelopes.

xoxo

becky

Holiday Handmade 2011

2011-12-17T07:56:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to this year's Fancy Tiger's Holiday Handmade. I had a great time and it gave me the opportunity to show off my new booth display. Here's a few pictures...

Boba Fett Marching band showed up Friday night to livin' thing up. Check out a video of their performance here.

Big thanks to my mom for helping me run by booth both days!

Holidays are just around the corner and although there is not enough time for shipping you can find my product at these local boutiques:

Fancy Tiger Clothing

18 South Broadway, Denver

(buttons, dioramas, jewelry, knit & crocheted goods)

I Heart Denver Store

Denver Pavillions

(buttons, dioramas, jewelry, knit & crocheted goods)

Rejuvanest

1550-D Platte Street, Denver

(embroidered slips)

Kansas City Kitty

136 N. College Ave, Fort Collins

(buttons, dioramas, jewelry & crocheted goods)

You can also use the coupon code HANDMADEHOLIDAY in my Etsy store through the end of the year for 25% off your entire order.

Happy Holidays!

xoxo

becky

Handmade Holiday

2011-12-05T14:04:00.001-08:00

Just in time for online holiday shopping new diorama necklaces, mini dioramas and crystal vial necklaces for that special someone in your life.

Use the coupon code HANDMADEHOLIDAY for 25% off your orders through the end of 2011.

Happy Online Holiday Shopping!

xoxo

becky

This Saturday!

2011-12-05T12:24:00.001-08:00

Need to pick up some handmade holiday gifts for your loved ones? Stop by the Holiday Gift Givers Sale this Saturday from 5pm-10pm (newly extended hours) at GroundSwell Galllery. Check out the work of a handful of local artists and designers including holsum, sandra fettingis, The Pin Pals, tinkerbirds and more.

This will be your last chance to buy my larger one-of-a-kind dioramas directly from me for the holidays.

see you there!

xoxo

becky

Holiday Happenings!

2011-11-29T08:18:00.001-08:00

Fancy Tiger's Holiday Handmade this Friday & Saturday!

I am thrilled to be vending again at the 4th Annual Fancy Tiger's Holiday Handmade. Fancy Tiger's Holiday Handmade is Denver's alternative craft fair featuring the work of 70 local emerging and established crafters. Holiday Handmade features knitting, crochet, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, body care products, handspun yarn, quilting, sewing, felting, bookbinding, candles, soap and more. You can do all your holiday shopping while supporting locally based crafters and artisans!

friday December 2nd 5 - 10

saturday December 3rd 10 - 4

Sherman Events Center 1770 Sherman Street, Denver

a free event

line up early! The first 50 people through the doors each day will recieve a swag bag full of handmade goodies from local vendors brought to you by the Denver Handmade Alliance.

I will be debuting some new diorama necklaces, crystal necklaces and crystal dioramas so come get your holiday shopping on this weekend!

Holiday Trunk Show at GroundSwell Gallery

Also make sure to stop by the GroundSwell Gallery Holiday Trunk Show featuring the work of a handful of Denver artisians set to the back drop of Rozie Vajda's amazing exhibition on view now.

saturday december 10th 5-10 (newly extended hours)

3121 East Colfax, Denver

happy holidays!

xoxo

becky

Crafts & Craft Beers

2011-11-11T07:41:00.001-08:00

Jason and I ventured north this week and visited one of our favorite local breweries New Belgium. They are extremely supportive of local creatives and I was thrilled to see their crafty holiday decorations. Check out these adorable ceramic animals adorned with knit accessories...

I also loved this idea of vintage wooden rulers to mark the winter season.

They carried the knit theme through with yarn bombing on the light fixtures, pom pom garlands and they even bombed one of their signature cruiser bikes.

This altar scene made from New Belgium barrels caught my eye as well.

After checking out the decorations it was off to tour the facility. We are fortunate that our good friend Anne works there so we were able to get a VIP tour and see areas that are typically off limits to the public. Anne even taught us how to pull the perfect beer...

Jason even got a try.

Then it was on to the production line, here's Anne and I in front of their labeling machine. I do have to say I was sad to part with my safety glasses, I think they really made the outfit.

Fortunately they were bottling Jason's favorite that day, Ranger.

Here's Jason pulling a one minute old Ranger off the line...

here they are verifying the time.

We had an excellent time on our tour and enjoyed a variety of beers, I even got to try their sour brew La Folie for the first time and I have to say I'm a fan.

After a lovely day at the brewery it was off the see this little man, my nephew Mason.

If you are looking for something to do with your family this holiday season consider a tour a New Belgium, you won't regret it.

Happy Holidays!

xoxo

becky

Indie Wearable Craft Urban Style Market in Review

2011-10-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out for the Fall Indie Wearable Craft: Urban Style Mart this weekend. It was a huge success and here are some pictures in case you missed it...

xoxo

becky

Crocheted Headband and Neck Cowl Debut!

2011-10-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

This evening is the start of the 3-day wearable craft event, the Indie Wearable Craft: Urban Style Mart. This event will feature 11 local designers including yours truly.

I am excited to debut a new crocheted design at this event. I noticed a lot of you trying my last neck cowl design on your heads so I heard your message loud and clear and have designed a multipurpose crocheted accessory. This new design can be worn on your neck as a warming neck cowl...

or on your head as a head warmer!

Choose from a variety of colors in Merino Wool or Organic Cotton.

I hope to see you all tonight!

xoxo

becky

Indie Wearable Craft Urban Style Market this Weekend!

2011-10-18T10:34:00.000-07:00

darling ruth • vital industries • jil cappuccio • becky's buttons & things •

phryne metal • lucky me beads • dandy social club • beans & rice

• mona lucero • swear jar • pearl clothing

A fall designs to wear event

showcasing 11 local designers original handmade style

in a downtown studio store like setting

friday October 21st 5 - 9

saturday October 22nd 10 - 6

sunday October 23rd 10 - 3

1754 Humboldt Street between 17th & 18th Avenue

a free event

read more about indie wearable craft

http://www.voiceplaces.com/indie-wearable-craft-urban-style-market-denver-boulder-2018665-e/

xoxo

becky

Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market & Art by Craft Exhibit Wrap Up!

2011-10-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out this weekend and supported your local craft community. There was a lot going on this past Saturday with the Fall installment of the Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market and the Art by Craft Exhibit Opening Reception brought to you by the Denver Handmade Alliance. Luckily my mom was on hand to help me run my booth at the Horseshoe Market and help with set up and break down of my new display...

Then it was off to the 3rd Annual Art by Craft Exhibit at RedLine Denver. We had a great turn out and I was excited to debut my new installation piece comprised of crocheted rocks...

Here are a few other shots from the show...

an installation by Sandra Fettingis

a kinetic sculpture by Adriane Horovitz and Marc Horovitz

Patrice Washington

Lara Nickel

Sara Scott

Jason and I experiencing the installation Storm by Andrea Thurber

The Art by Craft Exhibit is on view at RedLine Denver through October 15th so make sure to stop by and see it. A great day to do so would be Sunday October 9th during the Art by Craft Market. I am unable to vend a this market this time around but there will be so many talented crafters on hand you won't want to miss it.

Happy Exploring!

xoxo

becky

October Events

2011-09-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

October is almost here and I've managed to sign up for 3 separate events so your bound to find me somewhere this coming month. First up is the Fall installment of the Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market. If you have not yet been to this event don't miss this last installment of the 2011 season Saturday October 1st from 9am-4pm at 16th and Tennyson, Denver.

Next up is the Denver Handmade Alliance presents the 3rd Annual Art by Craft Exhibit & Market. This year I am pleased to be participating both as an exhibiting artist in the craft based art exhibit as well as a vendor in the Art by Craft Market at RedLine Denver.

Finally you can also track me down at the second installment of the Indie Wearable Craft: Urban Style Market. This 3 day market, October 21st - 23rd will feature the wearable work of 11 local designers.

Holidays are right around the corner, so get to shopping!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-09-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Amplitudemodulation for including my thread spool necklace in this lovely Etsy treasury of Bright Threads.

xoxo

becky

Horseshoe Craft & Flea Summer Market

2011-08-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came out and supported the Summer edition of the Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market. Although it was super hot out a record number of customers came through. Here are a few shots of my new display solution that was custom built for me.

The display was a hit and I think the dioramas got a little more attention elevated to eye line.

xoxo

becky

This Saturday: Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market

2011-08-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

This Saturday August 6th the Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market is back for it's Summer installment. Join myself and 100s of other local crafters for a day of shopping from 9am-4pm at 46th & Tennyson. I will be unveiling my new diorama display custom built for me by my father-in-law. We finished painting it yesterday and I can't wait to show it off.

See you there!

xoxo

becky

Denver Handmade Alliance Monday Member Spotlight

2011-08-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

Check out my interview with the Denver Handmade Alliance here for this week's Monday Member Spotlight!

Monday Member Spotlight: Becky Wareing Steele of Becky’s Buttons & Things

Today’s member spotlight is on Becky Wareing Steele of Becky’s Buttons and Things!

Please describe your craft business. What was your impulse for starting it?

It all started with a button maker 9 years ago. I’ve always collected buttons and wanted to make my own and soon after making custom buttons for friends, it grew into a business venture. Since then I’ve diversified into a variety of mediums such as dioramas, crocheted goods, embroidery, jewelry making and the list continues to grow, hence the name becky’s buttons & things.

What do you consider to be the most important personality trait of an entrepreneur?

Being considerate of your customers and potential customers. Wether that means greeting everyone who approaches your booth at a craft fair with a friendly hello or responding in a timely manner to emails or other correspondence. It’s all about networking and meeting new people within your creative community.

What piece of advice do you wish you had, when starting your business?

Branding is key. Developing a cohesive look for your line and marketing materials goes a long way with building your brand awareness. Something as simple as a logo can stick with people and help your brand to grow.

Who in Denver do you admire? Who is your crafty hero?

That is a really difficult one, I have met so many amazing people in the craft community, especially since getting involved with the DHA. I have great respect for anyone out there doing something creative. With that said I’d have to say Brett & Crystal of Vital Industries and Tomte Modern Craft. They have done an excellent job of building a brand and making a life out of something they love doing.

What’s the best show you did last year?

Hands down, it has to be Fancy Tiger Crafts Holiday Handmade. They do an incredible job of organizing and promoting the event every year.

Where can we find you online?
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/beckys-buttons/113782049888
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/beckysbuttons
Blog: http://www.beckysbuttons.blogspot.com/
Website: www.beckysbuttons.com
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/26139659@N03/

Busy Summer Season!

2011-07-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

Although I've been lacking in blog posts recently I think I've been making up for it with the amount of events I've been doing. Here's a little recap of what I've been up to so far this summer...

It all started with Project Hello in June at RedLine, Denver. This event gets local creatives from all creative realms together for a one day expo of sorts asking participants to come up with an interactive display based upon the theme of introduction. It was my first year participating and I had a great time. Here's a peek at our yarn creation that greeted all attendees as they arrived.

Here I am with my new display. I was super proud of this, earlier in the week we went to TC Woods in Boulder County to get these beautiful Russian Olive shelves. My concept was "Introduction to new landscapes." Attendees were encouraged to explore the dioramas on the shelves with magnifying glasses, if needed and record their observations at the typewriter. I got some excellent feedback and reactions to my pieces that I will need to do something creative with. I also debuted my new crystal dioramas which went over extremely well.

Here's a few more shots from the event of some of my favorite displays.

Next up was Pandora on the Hill's 18th Birthday Party which was actually the day after Project Hello. It was a great party and I had a lovely time meeting some new people, especially the young lady pictured below with one of my squirrel dioramas she won during one of the many raffles that evening.

In all of this madness I turned 28. Jason and I spent the day at the Mile High Flea Market and walked away with some goodies including an accordion from the 1940's and three adorable rubber animals from the 1960's.

My next event focused solely on my hand embroidered vintage slips. Slip into Something Sweet, took place in early July at Rejuvanest. It was a great opportunity for attendees to check out my entire selection of slips, here's a peek at a few of them...

As if that wasn't enough I am gearing up for two more event over the next two weeks. First up is the Denver County Fair Thursday July 28th - Sunday July 31st where my work will be on view in the Denver Handmade Alliance Member's Pop Up Shop Booth in the Craft Pavilion. Then it's time for the second Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market of the season Saturday August 6th.

Well back to work!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-07-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you to AngelaDesign for including me in her treasury of Spools of Thread. I've really enjoyed making these necklaces and it's great to see what others are doing with thread spools.

xoxo

becky

Slip into Something Sweet this Friday!

2011-07-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

This Friday July 8th from 6pm-8pm stop by Rejuvanest, 1550 Platte Street, Denver, for my first ever slip trunk show, Slip into Something Sweet. This will be the largest showing yet of my hand-embroidered vintage slips so make sure to stop by and say hello. Also enjoy sweets, beverages and live music.

Hope to see you there!

xoxo

becky

Project Hello and Crystal Diorama Debut

2011-06-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

Project Hello is coming up, Saturday June 25th from 12pm-7pm at RedLine Denver, 2350 Arapahoe St, Denver. For those of you who aren't familiar with Project Hello this is it's second year and it is an event that has set out to unite the creative community in Denver. Where else can you go peruse the talents of musicians, crafters, jewelry designers, writers, artists and various other creative disciplines all under one roof. All participating creatives will be building a display working with the idea of introduction. I am very excited to be the craft ambassador for the second annual Project Hello and will be debuting a new line of dioramas as part of my "Introduction to new Landscapes" concept.

A few weeks ago Jason and I picked up some break your own geodes from Iron Wood, which on a side not if you have not been to this new amazing store yet, do yourself a favor and check it out! Back to the geodes! We gathered all the necessary equipment; hammer, screw driver, gloves, rags and of course beer.

First up wrap the geode in the rag...

and hammer away. If you want a clean break, I'd suggest using a flat head screw driver to perforate the geode before breaking it open.

TA DA! Crystals!!!

After basking in the glory of our new found discovery Jason had the brilliant idea to embellish these crystals with miniature scenes and thus the Crystal Diorama was born! Here is a sneak peak of what you can expect to see at Project Hello.

Also if you are in the neighborhood Sunday June 26th I will be participating in Pandora on the Hill's 18th Birthday Celebration from 6pm-8pm! I am very excited to be participating in this celebration and a percentage of all proceeds will go to Red Cross Disaster Relief.

Mark your calendars folks!

xoxo

becky

New Product!

2011-06-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

I just listed tons of new product in my Etsy shop, including mini dioramas, thread spool necklaces, tulip accessories and much more...

happy shopping!

xoxo

becky

Road Trip to Canada Part III

2011-06-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

On our final day in Canada we woke up early only to find that we were in the midst of a marathon that had boxed us in our neighborhood, so we took the logical step of waking to the sushi place down the street. Needless to say the sushi was incredible and a great start to the day.

After that we went on a hunt for a silversmith to get some basic silver bands to serve as our wedding bands for our elopement (Yep, that's right no one knew about it). We then made our way to Pacific Spirit Park where we performed a private marriage ceremony and emerged from the woods husband and wife.

And now for the obligatory ring shots...

The scenery was beautiful and I couldn't have imagined a more romantic ceremony. We awoke early the next morning and made our way back to the USA. 24 hours later and we were in Colorado...now for the party!

xoxo

becky

Colorado Made Exhibit

2011-06-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

This past week I attended the opening of the Colorado Made Exhibit at the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys. This is an exhibition of handmade miniatures, dolls and toys all made locally here in Colorado. Check out some images of the show below.

The Colorado Made Exhibit runs through September 2011 so make sure to stop by and check out work from the following local artists including myself.

Puppets & Cross-Stitch by Sam Purdy & Sara Guidon of Pin Pals
Cloth Dolls by Hope Morgan of Haunted Sparrow
Felted dolls by Heide Murray of All Good Wishes
Friendly Monsters by Christie Wolf of Kansas City Kitty
Crocheted Creatures by Cori Buchholz of MischiefMaker
Stuffed Animals by Mary Katz of Flora Fauna
Wooden Toys by Levi & Alissa Smith of Three Leaves Toys
Felted Mobiles & Animals by Cindy Leibman of Fishy Fishy

Also if you haven't been to the Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys you are missing out, they have a great array of miniatures, dolls and toys on view from their permanent collection. It's like a walk down memory lane...

Happy Exploring!

xoxo

becky

Road Trip to Canada Part II

2011-06-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

After a lovely few days in Seattle we awoke early in the morning and made our way to Canada!

We made it to our Vancouver rental in the early afternoon and we were greeted with a lovely view from across the way at Kits Beach. I love that rather than benches they drug out an array of logs for people to relax on.

After seeing their street signs and their storybook like quality I think the US street signs need a little re-vamping.

Our second day in Vancouver we made our way to Lighthouse Park, a lovely scenic park with a variety of paths to take. Coming from a dry climate in Colorado, the amount of moss growing on everything was incredible to see.

The Point Atkinson Lighthouse has been around since the 1800s. There was even a commemorative plaque near by listing all of the lighthouse keepers over the years. What an interesting existence...

Lighthouse Park is also known for it's Douglas firs, this is actually Vancouver's last standing first-growth Douglas fir tree forest. Jason and I posed near some trees to give some perspective on just how big they are.

After a day of the outdoors we turned in for the night and started off our next day with an exploration of the city starting off with a stop at Michi Sushi for some lunch. This tiny little sushi spot serves some delicious hand rolls to go. They even served their sushi with these adorable little plastic fish full of soy sauce, yum!

Since Jason works for a Vespa dealership in Denver we just had to check out Vespa Vancouver, Urban Wasp. The staff there was extremely friendly, they even gave us patches for our jackets. There were even local scooterists hanging out there discussing the upcoming rides that weekend.

After our Vespa experience it was off to Gastown, a great area for shopping and food and drink. The streets are paved with bricks and the whole neighborhood just has a really eclectic feel. After purusing a few local shops we went down an alley to find one of the best places to grab a drink and some nibbles, Salt Tasting Room. This is an amazing, tucked away treasure where rather than having a full blown kitchen they invested in a meat slicer and serve delicious meat and cheeses paired with various treats. I love their chalkboard wall menu.

After a quick break we were back to exploring boutiques and I found my two favorite shops in Vancouver, One of a Few and Two of a Few are a men's and women's boutique right next door to one another. They carry a lot of smaller independent lines so I felt right at home.

Then it was off to Buttons Buttons, an incredible shop full of...you guessed it, buttons!

Tune in next week for the third and final installment, until then...

xoxo

becky

Mural Madness!

2011-06-03T12:09:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I followed through on a year long promise to paint a mural in my brother and his wife's bedroom. They moved into their new home about one year ago so this was an extremely late housewarming present, but hey better late than never. It had been quite a few years since I've painted but it was nice getting back into it. Here are some progress shots...

Thankfully Jason stepped in to help me with the finishing touch of the flowers...

Drum roll please...here is the final product of a day of painting!

We were really happy with the end result and best off all my brother and his wife were happy!

Until next time...

xoxo

becky

Road Trip to Canada Part I

2011-05-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

Jason and I packed up the car and made our way to Vancouver, B.C. this past April. We were in need of a little break from the everyday for a while so a road trip seemed like the perfect opportunity. After

making our way through Wyoming...

(I was able to get a bit of embroidery in while on the road)

Montana...

and Idaho...

we arrived in Seattle, Washington.

Seattle was lovely, but my favorite part of all was seeing the Nick Cave, Meet Me at the Center of the Earth exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum. This exhibition is an invitation from the artist to view his intricate and beautiful sound suits. The sound suits serve as a form of expression for the artist who also trained as a dancer with Alvin Ailey. Seeing them stationary allows you to pick up on the detail of these incredible creations but the exhibit also pairs the sounds suits on view with videos of them in dance. Here are a few images from the exhibit, please note they did not allow photography in this exhibit so all of these images were found online.

The final image here of the button suit was obviously my favorite. This sound suit is constructed entirely of buttons with an abacus face. If you happen to be in the Seattle area do not miss this exhibit.

We also had the pleasure of taking a ferry to Bainbridge Island to experience a bit of a break from the city.

Stay tuned for Part II...

xoxo

becky

Inspiration & Motivation!

2011-05-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up with a sense of inspiration and got to work on a new logo. This was inspired by a sweet shrinky-dink brooch a good friend made for me. Now I am off to order stickers and get to re-branding!

I also wanted to update you all that you can now follow me on Twitter, @beckysbuttons! I set up this account a while ago and have done nothing with it, mainly because I am a little slow to all this social networking business, so please bare with me.

Well back to work!

xoxo

becky

p.s. I also realized I have mentioned nothing of my recent trip to Canada on this blog, keep an eye out next week for some stories of our road trip!

Rainy Day Crafting...

2011-05-24T14:46:00.000-07:00

We've been experiencing some rainy weather in Colorado right now so I took advantage of the rain today to stay inside and create some dioramas. Check out what I've been up to...

happy crafting!

xoxo

becky

Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market This Saturday!

2011-05-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce that this year you can find me at all three Horseshoe Craft & Flea Markets. For those of you who did not make it out last year this is a seasonal open-air market where emerging, undiscovered and experienced artists, designers, crafters, and antique/vintage collectors in Denver can set up their own little shop and meet their customers. This market takes place in the Berkley Neighborhood at 46th and Tennyson. The Spring market is scheduled for Saturday May 7th from 9am-4pm so make sure to stop by and say hello. Also make sure to get there early to get your hands on one of the 50 swag bags that will be handed out to the first 50 people through the entry full of handmade goodies.

xoxo

becky

April Events!

2011-04-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that you have another opportunity to come craft with me at MCA Denver as part of their Black Sheep Friday s. This week's Black Sheep Friday will focus on Earth Day so join me for Fishes Get Stitches, Save the Earth, make a fish sized scarf, Friday April 22nd from 7pm-9pm in the roof top cafe. Attendees will learn a little bit about embroidery and a lot about crafting under the influence. Also stick around for the Denver B-Cycle Anniversary Party from 7pm-10pm.

Next up is the Indie Wearable Craft - Urban Style Market. Indie Wearable Craft is the name of a new style show and sale featuring six hand selected designers who make clothing and wearable accessories. This event was organized by Kirsten Coplans, designer of pearl clothing, Jil Cappuccio, owner of Jil Cappuccio One of a Kinds & Limited Lines, located at 1433 Ogden Street, and Christina Patzman, designer of Darling Ruth. The Indie Wearable Craft - Urban Style Market will be held in a downtown Denver studio, located at 1754 Humboldt Street between 17th and 18th avenue and will feature the work of Swear Jar, beckyʼs buttons & things, Darling Ruth, Jil Cappuccio, Vital Industries, pearl clothing and Beans & Rice. I am honored to be a part of this event so if you are in the Denver area make sure to check out this three day shopping extravaganza Friday April 29th from 5-9 pm, Saturday April 30th from 10-5 pm, and Sunday May 1st from 10-3pm.

xoxo

becky

I Heart Denver Store!

2011-04-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

I just dropped off some product at the I Heart Denver Store located on the second level of the Denver Pavillions at 500 16th Street. This new space is amazing and is really coming along for the opening Saturday April 9th from 6pm-9pm. The I Heart Denver Store is a new POP-Up Retail space by 15 min. that supports local artists and designers. 70% of sales go directly to the artist and you can find the best art and design goods Denver has to offer.

xoxo

becky

Pandora on the Hill

2011-04-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce that you can now find becky's buttons & things at Pandora on the Hill! This locally owned boutique has been serving the Denver area since 1994. You can find my mini-dioramas, diorama necklaces, thread spool necklaces and more at this Capitol Hill spot.

Happy Shopping!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-03-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to MrMoss on Etsy for including my anchor badges in this lovely treasury of seaside inspired goodies. Doesn't this make you want to go to the seaside?

xoxo

becky

Help Fund Microclimates!

2011-03-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

Local creative team Rob Mack & Samuel Schimek have big plans for their upcoming exhibit at the Super Ordinary Gallery in the RiNo art district of Denver, CO. The Super Ordinary Gallery will be transformed for two months into a large scale graphic art environment. Three distinctive microclimates will lead the viewer on an exciting visual journey using life scale graphic installations. Rob and Samuel have come together to manifest this exhibition and will be using their skills in graphic design, found object, and the collaborative art experience.

I have come to know Samuel from his work with the Yes Please More Pop Up Store, a store selling 100% Denver designed goods, that has helped countless designers in the area gain more exposure. To learn more about their project or to make a donation click here, even one dollar will help!

xoxo

becky

March Thrift Store Finds

2011-03-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I've posted about my thrifting and recently I've gotten pretty lucky. Here's some of the goodies I've found this past month...

I have a knack for finding bird themed aprons, I have a similar one in blue.

I am not exactly sure the story behind these wall hung scences, but I have a rule that if I find multiples of something while thrifting I have to get them all. I figure this is a great stage to build a diorama on.

This must have been a bird themed month. I found the above bird scene encased in resin while thrifting with my mom and the ceramic bird is actually an old salt shaker. Below is an owl pestle and mortar I found the other day that I suspect is from Anthropologie, I remember a few years ago they were selling a similar set of owl tea cups.

Embroidery hoops galore! Keep and eye out this Spring for wall hung embroidered pieces...

Keeping with the theme of embroidery I found a stack of great vintage, pencil skirts to embellish as well as some colorful vintage slips.

Diorama's have been going fast so I've been searching high and low for glass ware capable of supporting scenery. My favorite find would have to be the mushroom shaped container thrifted by my mom, I'm thinking tall spruce trees will fill this one.

Well, until next time, Happy Thrifting!

xoxo

becky

Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market!

2011-03-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce that this year you can find me at all three Horseshoe Craft & Flea Market's. For those of you who did not make it out last year this is a seasonal open-air market where emerging, undiscovered and experienced artists, designers, crafters, and antique/vintage collectors in Denver can set up their own little shop and meet their customers. This market takes place in the Berkley Neighborhood at 46th and Tennyson. Here's the market schedule, mark your calendars now:

Spring Market: Saturday May 7th 9am-4pm
Summer Market: Saturday August 6th 9am-4pm
Fall Market: Saturday October 1st 9am-4pm

Happy Exploring!

xoxo

becky

Tomte Modern Craft's New Home

2011-03-01T12:16:00.000-08:00

I stopped by Tomte Modern Craft's new digs this past week to drop off some new merchandise and was amazed with the space. They moved from their Platte Street location to the Berkeley neighborhood at 4335 W 41st Ave, Denver. Here's a peek...

They even combined the new store front with Vital Industries studio space so you can get a sneak peak of production while in the space.

If you haven't checked out the new location yet I highly recommend it. They will even be open late this first Friday March 4th until 10pm to celebrate the work of local crafter Elena Stonaker.

Happy Exploration!

xoxo

becky

YesPleaseMore Pop Up Store Closing Sale!

2011-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Make sure to stop by the YesPleaseMore Pop Up Store this Saturday February 26th from 10am-7pm and enjoy up to 75% off select items. This store is filled with 100% Denver designed goods so make sure to check it out before it's all gone. You can also enjoy 10% off all products from becky's buttons & things.

Happy Bargain Shopping!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-02-24T08:50:00.000-08:00

Deer Diorama Necklaces are back in stock and people are already taking notice. Thank you to Magille on Etsy for featuring me in their lovely treasury of deer related goodies.

Happy Shopping!

xoxo

becky

Tricks up my sleeve...

2011-02-12T07:37:00.000-08:00

So my Etsy shop has been a little quiet recently, gearing down from holiday madness and transitioning into the Spring. I wanted to update you all that I am working on a lot of new products for my Spring 2011 line which I will be announcing in the next month. Here's a sneak peak at something I've got up my sleeve for you...

And here's the source of my inspiration doing what they do best...

In other exciting new, my good friends over at Lexlilou Photo are going to be shooting all of this new product for me. Now these super talented ladies are located in San Francisco, but we are going to do this pen-pal style and send them the products. If you are looking for a great new photographer I'm sure they'd do the same for you. Check out their work here.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks: PetalX x Wyoming x Week 50

2011-02-11T09:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 50th and final installment of the 50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks interview series. It's been such a wonderful experience to meet all of the incredible crafters that I have had the opportunity to interview. This week I decided to feature someone in the health and beauty realm of crafting. It is my pleasure to introduce you to PetalX of Wyoming. Same questions, same format, different answers.

bb: Can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about your business and where the idea came from?

px: I'm Liz Lemon, owner of PetalX. The name PetalX was decided upon because it is short, memorable and describes an interchange of color and creativity in makeup and accessories.

The "X" in PetalX also indicates the "eXchange" of multiple snap-on flowers in my hair accessory lineup(aka Snapware). This area of my shop is still in baby stages, but I've got hundreds of flowers, leaves and various other snap-ons at home waiting for their e-debut.

I got my start in PetalX when my neighbor and friend (etsy store: Improvised) generously taught me her trade of mineral lipstick. Thanks to her continued constructive criticism I have hung on and expanded my collection. Being a mom is my #1 priority, and I slowly chip away at making things a little nicer, tweaking it here and there, improving formulas, etc. when I have time.

bb: What is your first memory of crafting?

px: I've been crafting as long as I can remember, helping my mom with projects she was working on, and doing little things in school, Girl Scouts and Church. I am an artist and my business is a good way to do short bursts of art that fit into my schedule as a wife and mommy too.

bb: What is your favorite medium to work in?

px: I am a lady of many interests, so it is hard to decide what is really my favorite. I am a painter, and I love to watercolor. I am a massage therapist, and I enjoy helping the body heal. I also take on the hat of cake artist from time to time. As far as my business goes I really enjoy making cosmetics my way, without ingredients that irritate me and that are exactly what I am looking for.

bb: Where do you find your best inspiration?

px: Each color seems to have a life of its own and tells me its story. I get giddy every time I mix those minerals and pigments up to create something new.

bb: What is the tool you cannot live without?

px: For lipsticks, my invaluable tool is a beaker with a good pour spout! For my hair accessories I love my heavy duty snap press.

bb: Any words of wisdom you’d like to pass along to other crafters?

px: For Esty store owners: Crafting is fun! If you're letting it bog you down, you probably are too busy and you won't be very creative. Let yourself enjoy what you do, and let the sales come if they will. If not, oh well. At least you haven't given yourself high blood pressure trying.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks: Bead Flora and Jewels x Wisconsin x Week 49

2011-02-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

We are approaching the end of the 50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks interview series. I am amazed at the talented crafters I stumbled upon during this journey and the final two crafters in the series are no different. This week our featured crafter specializes in beautifully handmade, beaded accessories for weddings or other special occasions. If you have a special event you are planning I highly recommend checking out these lovely creations. Without further ado allow me to introduce you to this week's featured crafter from Wisconsin, Bead Flora and Jewels. Same questions, same format, different answers.

bb: Can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about your business and where the idea came from?

bfj: Hello! My name is Fen Li and I run Bead Flora and Jewels. At the moment, I wear all the hats. Designer, Marketer, Sales person…etc etc. I began the art of French Beaded flowers back when I was in college. Instead of doing my computer science homework (blerg!), I made beaded flowers instead. At the time, I was also a freelance web designer so the entreprenural spirit was strong. I can’t remember the moment or how the name Bead Flora came about… but I can remember vividly sitting in my parents living room beading an aqua blue rose when I was supposed to be doing CSC 101 homework.

bb: What is your first memory of crafting?
bfj: As a child, I wanted to know how to make everything! My parents owned a Chinese restaurant… and next door was this craft store. I would go next door and buy beads and other crafty supplies. In 6th grade, I started making friendship bracelets using embroidery floss after I got a book from a book order. Later on, I incorporated beads into the bracelets. Then I said…why don’t I just make the whole bracelet out of beads. So I took the techniques of the friendship bracelets and made beaded bracelets. In high school, we had a gift-exchange in English class. I remember making a beaded bracelet with the girl’s name spelled out in beads, her name was Michelle. Of course, I can't make any of those things now, it’s been too long.

bb: What is your favorite medium to work in?
bfj: Beads!

bb: Where do you find your best inspiration?
bfj: My mind runs a mile a minute coming up with ideas all the time. I even dream about projects… it can be at the Asian market when they had a small cherry blossom tree which triggered me to want to make a life-sized cherry blossom tree (yes, it has been in the works for years). It can be a walk with my husband where I saw some fabulous apple blossoms and I make him take pictures, or it can be a talk with a fellow beader about something she saw and it triggers another idea for me to make a life-size Christmas tree.

bb: What is the tool you cannot live without?
bfj: Pliers.

bb: Any words of wisdom you’d like to pass along to other crafters?
bfj: Don’t undervalue your work. If you see the value in what you do, others will follow. Be your own biggest cheerleader and toot your own horn. Please follow me on facebook.com/beadflora for exclusive facebook fan promotions.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks: Nancy Nelson Jewelry x West Virginia x Week 48

2011-01-28T07:34:00.000-08:00

This week our nationwide search for crafters takes us to Mountain State of West Virginia. Fitting with the mountainous area she resides, this week's crafter's work is inspired by nature. I love the simple and organic quality of this jewelry designers work. So without further ado I bring you Nancy Nelson Jewelry.

bb: Can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about your business and where the idea came from?

nnj: Hello, my name is Nancy and my shop is Nancy Nelson Jewelry. At the time, I was so afraid to pick a name that in a few months I would be tired of so I decided to use my name + jewelry. It really is as simple as that.

Ever since childhood I have been fascinated with art and design. But, it wasn’t until the fall of 2006 that I decided to pursue my true dream and passion of settling down and becoming a mother while running my own successful jewelry business. On a daily basis, I am a wife, mama, artist, dreamer and lover of beautiful things.

bb: What is your first memory of crafting?

nnj: Probably my first memory of crafting was in elementary school where I made my first stain glass out of melted crayon shavings on wax paper.

bb: What is your favorite medium to work in?

nnj: I really love all metal but probably my favorite is Sterling Silver. I love how you can manipulate it into so many different forms and textures.

bb: Where do you find your best inspiration?

nnj: About two years ago my family and I built a house in the beautiful rural area of West Virginia. Every day, I am inspired by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains either from my window or from our daily nature walks.

bb: What is the tool you cannot live without?

nnj: It probably would be my pliers. It would be very challenging to work without them

bb: Any words of wisdom you’d like to pass along to other crafters?

nnj: I am still trying to figure it all out but I guess the one advice I would give is follow you heart and passion and never stop dreaming.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

Black Sheep Friday - This Friday!

2011-01-26T07:39:00.000-08:00

If you are in the Denver area this Friday January 28th stop by the MCA Denver for Kraft Singles' Night. I will be taking over the roof top cafe from 7pm-9pm with "krafty" singles ice breakers. So stop by and join me for a drink and some crafting this Friday, who knows you may meet someone new. Admission is just $5 after 5pm!

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

Feeling the love...

2011-01-25T09:17:00.000-08:00

A big thanks to GinaMicheleEco for including me in her treasury of all things nautical. I am so honored to be included with so many other talented crafters.

Happy Tuesday!

xoxo

becky

50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks: JennMaruskaDesign x Washington x Week 47

2011-01-21T13:43:00.000-08:00

This week our travels take us to the Evergreen state of Washington. I was first drawn to this crafters work by her use of color and the simplicity of the designs. Her work has a very clean look and all of the pieces have purpose. So without further ado I introduce you to Jenn Maruska Design. Same questions, same format, different answers.

bb: Can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about your business and where the idea came from?

jmd: My name is Jenn and I sell items that I make through Jenn Maruska Design. I've always been creative; drawing and painting when I was younger, and now sewing and embroidering.

bb: What is your first memory of crafting?

jmd: My first memory of drawing is when my Mom saw a contest in the local funny pages - kids could send in their drawings of the Jolly Green Giant or Little Green Sprout. I drew something, she sent it in and it won! I won two plastic cups with a picture of the Jolly Green Giant and Little Sprout on them. If you tilted the cups, the picture would change... pretty groovy, huh? I didn't start sewing until I was out of college (I have a degree in Medical Illustration). Then, through the internet I discovered Japanese crafting and embroidery and I was hooked. I've been creating my own embroidery designs and incorporating them with sewn items for about the last 5 years.

bb: What is your favorite medium to work in?

jmd: Cotton, wool and felt. Especially felt. I love the feel, colors and ease of using good wool felt.

bb: Where do you find your best inspiration?

jmd: Japanese crafts inspire me because they are meticulous, cute and well designed.

bb: What is the tool you cannot live without?

jmd: I'd be lost without a needlebook to hold my embroidery needles. When I first opened shop I was selling purses and fabric art and one day I looked over at my work table and thought about what a must-have my needlebook is, and I wondered if other crafts people could use needlebooks, too. I've kept them in my shop ever since, now I decorate the covers with my hand embroidery.

bb: Any words of wisdom you'd like to pass along to other crafters?

jmd: Do what you really enjoy. I love embroidering and making useful items (needlebooks, passport covers, baskets, etc.) fun by giving them a little something special - my own hand embroidered designs.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky

50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks: EttaRose x Virginia x Week 46

2011-01-14T09:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 46th installment of the 50 Crafters x 50 States x 50 Weeks interview series. This week we have reached the state of Virginia. This week's featured crafter has a very playful take on accessories that's sure to put a smile on your face. Without further ado I bring you EttaRose. Same questions, same format, different answers.

bb: Can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about your business and where the idea came from?

er: My name is Etta(middle name Rose) and my company is EttaRose. I know that may be boring but I was originally an Etsy buyer then became a seller and the name just stuck! I first started selling my felted items on Etsy in April of 2009. I learned of Etsy through the woman I worked for when I gave her a pair of earrings I made.

bb: What is your first memory of crafting?

er: I have always been crafty. Of course I remember making macaroni necklaces in preschool, taking pottery classes(if you have never done it, try! I LOVE pottery, especially the wheel), but my favorite young childhood crafting memory was taking a bookshelf in my bedroom when I was little and making chairs and tables to make it another dollhouse so I could have a neighborhood with my real dollhouses.

bb: What is your favorite medium to work in?

er: Felt! I love 100% wool felt. In late 2008 I started out practicing with the synthetic stuff but quickly found that it wasn't what I wanted to work with. it fell apart, stretched funky and just didn't do what I wanted. My sister took me to a yarn store in Portland(at the time I lived in Seattle) and I bought a ton of 100% merino wool felt from Holland. I never turned back.

bb: Where do you find your best inspiration?

er: I find inspiration for different projects in different places. For my flowers, it's a park or garden. My play food, I think about what I would put in my grocery basket and make sure they're not too big for play! I use my own wallets, so when something on it doesn't have what I want it to I get inspired to change it!

I'm also a nanny, and was a preschool teacher. Since I do not yet have children of my own, this lets me see how they will play or wear with the things I have made and I can make improvements.

bb: What is the tool you cannot live without?

er: Definitely my needles. I have a ton of needles but there are two or three that I have sewn so many projects with and while I can use other needles, they just don't have the same feeling!

bb: Any words of wisdom you’d like to pass along to other crafters?

er: If you actually would like to make money to support your craft, buy wholesale. Shop around. Sometimes you'll have to get things retail but look around to see if you can get it less expensive somewhere else. Don't undersell your stuff.

Remember, you bought those materials and you spent time with them. If you spend $10 on materials and it takes you 2 hours to make, don't charge $15 for it. Especially if it's well made and people want it. That was your time, don't pay yourself $2.50 an hour!

Also, remember it may take a little to make a profit, but if you keep working on your crafts, taking good photos, descriptions, policies and overall shop appearance people will take notice! Make things you love, don't just make it to pay the bills. Stay happy.

Happy Crafting!

xoxo

becky