We’re over here just trying to make it through this rainy weather, feeling like someone moved our shop to Seattle without telling us! But the race flags all along Mass Ave. remind us: this is Indianapolis, racing capital of the world and we’re gearing up for race fans’ most exciting month. If you have friends or family coming to town, take a moment to visit us.

New

Our staff put together these cute shelf toppers to celebrate the 100th running of the Indy500.

Decorative Design Works brought us four new magnets celebrating Indiana. Also, new from Newfangled Confections, makers of Frittle, these caramels are selling fast, and we’ve loving these brand new cozies from United State of Indiana.

These aren’t exactly new, but how cute would your babe be in one of these buffalo onesies from Alison Rose tees? And this little tank top onesie from Little Hip Squeaks is perfect for summer.

Gallery 

We have a brand new show up in our gallery space from Soulaf Abas. Soulaf was born and raised in Syria, where she first began studying art before completing her BFA (and later, her MFA) at Indiana State University. Having traveled to many countries and participated in a number of symposiums, workshops, and exhibitions overseas, she’s now a professor in her alma mater’s art department. Her work involves oil painting, printmaking, watercolor, and more.

Her show includes hanging wall pieces, mini art pieces as well as extras like bookmarks and notecards; a little piece of this creative talent can be had by all!

What We’re Loving

Stephanie will totally sell you on this Repair & Renew spray from D’Earth’s All Natural. First of all, she has the glowing skin to show for it. Secondly, as she’ll tell you, “having troubled skin has always been difficult and this spray is one of the few I’ve found to calm it while also smelling great!” It has a bright, citrus smell that she says wakes her and her skin up in the morning. And… ahem… its $6! Thanks Stephanie!

Workshop: Pinot & Paws: Paint Your Pet: Thursday, May 12th, 6-8pm: Pets. They’re the family we choose. If you’re a dog or cat (or any animal, really) person, you understand the important role pets play in our lives. For many of us, our beloved pets are like our children, loving us unconditionally and loyally. Here’s your chance to immortalize your beloved Fido or Whiskers: instructor Deanna Leonard of Arcadian Design will be hosting a “Paint Your Pet” workshop at our store. Students will create a portrait from a favorite photograph with acrylic paint to cherish for years to come. Plus, we’ll have snacks and wine on hand for a full artist experience.

Workshop: How to Run an Etsy Shop: Saturday, May 28th, 1-4pm: re you a new maker, wondering how to get started in the world of online sales? Or, do you already have an Etsy store that you’re ready to take to the next level? Tamara Hoffbauer of Decorative Design Works will be hosting this Etsy Success workshop on Saturday, February 27th for both beginner and intermediate Etsy sellers, as well as those who do not yet have an Etsy shop. Her goal is to provide Etsy sellers with tools and tips to set them on the path to business success. Topics covered include best practices, pricing, presentation, crafting the ideal listing, SEO explained, research tools, time-saving techniques, and more. A complete workbook is provided with the class along with worksheets and templates. No special materials are required – just bring pen and paper and the desire to take your Etsy business to the next level!

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange: Saturday, June 11th, 12-8pm: Bringing contemporary craft to Indy since 2007! Located at the Harrison Center for the Arts.

Etsy Craft Party 2016: Friday, June 17th, 6-8pm: Stay tuned for more information about this event!

Workshop: Mixed Media Junk Journal: Friday, July 8th, 6-8pm: Do you ever feel like you have artists’ block? Maybe you’re an out-of-practice creative wanting to get back in the habit? Perhaps you have the creative spark, but you’re not sure where to start? We’re here to help! Join our Mixed Media Junk Journal Workshop to get your creative juices flowing. Play and explore design ideas through a variety of materials and mediums. Participants will first create a handmade book from recycled materials, found papers, or ephemera. Next, instructor Tori Weyers will guide participants through creating a mixed media spread using various paints, inks, pencils, crayons, washi tape, stencils, marks, graphite, and more.

Workshop: Wire Wrapping Basics: Saturday, July 23rd, 1-4pm: Have you ever wanted to go on a gem hunt? Well, here is your chance! Rana Salame Striedinger of Salame Jewelry Designs is opening her treasure chest of gemstones for you to peruse and select from to create your own one-of-a-kind jewelry. Students will learn several wire wrapping and jewelry assembly techniques to create two unique items – students can choose to make a pair of earrings and a necklace, two pairs of earrings, or two necklaces.

Workshop: Succulent Terrarium: Saturday, August 13th, 1-2:30pm: Low-maintenance, lovely, and easy to assemble: succulent terrariums are the perfect spring project to bring some green back into your world. Join Rana Salame in our shop as she shares her expertise in basic succulent cutting, rooting, and plant care. This class is great for beginners and open to children, too – one child and one caregiver together may purchase a ticket. Please note: one ticket is worth one terrarium – if you would like to made additional terrariums, please be sure to purchase additional tickets.

See ya next week, friends!