DIY Wednesday - Awesome Bash this Friday!

It's Wednesday, the day I get inspired by people's amazing DIY skills, and sometimes share my own. Well there is a group of 4 talented girls here in Austin that you need to meet!



They are The Wondercraft and they're going to teach you to craft! (What rhymes with craft? Sass + T?) Classes cover a wide array of fields: polymer clay, resin casting, upcycled jewelry & t-shirt projects, classic drawing techniques, and more! They have lessons targeted to Kids, Tweens & Teens, and Adults. Artists can learn new skills, take classes to help launch their DIY business, and join in a community that is encouraging and friendly.




What makes the Wondercraft neat to me is that they are teaching classes in locations all over Austin, at times in their very own Airstream Trailer, AND they will bring the craftiness to you with a Custom Craft Party! Say goodbye to lame-o bridal showers - invite the Wondercraft girls and your guests will walk away with a hip, handmade craft, feeling great about their abilities, and with better memories than a lame "clipboard game."




Over the past year I have had an opportunity to get to know and work with the ladies who founded the Wondercraft. They are Beth Albrecht of Paired Hearts, Jennifer Bryan of Lucy Blue Studio, Beth Hempton of The Snuggleherd and Kimberly Sae-Eau of Broken Ear Productions.






Try to keep up with me - Beth A. and Jen were both vendors at our amazing Lone Star Ladies Present: Shop Austin Event, all four gals are members and keystone leaders of Etsy Austin, and Kim just won the Golden Boot for Rising Star at the Austin Fashion Awards.





I got a little preview of their DIY Demonstrations at the Austin Handmade Party during Austin Fashion Week, and I can't wait to see them teaching classes in full swing.

If you didn't already know what a cool town Austin is to live in - this just adds to the ever-growing lists. For anyone who likes to craft, create, sew, draw, paint... we've got you covered! Check out my list of places to learn in Austin at left!






Come meet the girls of The Wondercraft at the All Austin All Handmade Bash this Friday, July 31st. Produced by my dear friend Candace Carlisle of Electric Promotions - the Bash features Austin Artists - including *annemarie* - a Fashion Show by Team Fabrication, Live music, Up-Dos, a Photo Booth... and lots of amazing food and drink!

See you there!

xo, Anne Marie

2nd Annual Holiday Gift Show

So, a few weeks ago I wrote a blog about my friend and fabulous jewelry designer - Courtney Husak.

Last year we had a fabulous Holiday Gift Show together at her studio - and we are doing it again this year! Nestled in the heart of 78704 (that's South Austin, folks)is a cute little home that serves as Courtney's studio (and home to her hubby & pets too!)

Check out the flyer for details on time and location, and email me at annemarie_beard@yahoo.com for more details. Oh yes, and I will be PREMIERING my brand new "Fine Art Handbags" - you have never seen ANYTHING like them, I promise you will be pleased...

Let the STITCH countdown begin...

Today is 30 days until Stitch - the annual fashion show and indie craft bazaar in Austin, Texas.

Back in 2002, a few friends of mine decided to put on this show. It was at a Coffee Shop - Ruta Maya on South Congress. The show was a huge success - we sold out at about 300 people.

*That's the 4 producers to yer right! Tina, Jesse, Jen & Karly*

Fast forward 5 years - and the show is gaining national acclaim. I am proud to be one of the few vendors who has had a booth every year! Many fabulous artists will be there selling their designs. From HOT jewelry to CUTTING EDGE clothing and everything in between - we are going to rock Austin.



Look for features of some of the designers in my blog in the coming weeks - and MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!! I am working hard on some new bags that are sure to be kick ass; look for pics soon.... that one there is my "Karly" bag in a vintage print with shimmer details...