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Filtering by Tag: Arkansas artisan

2023 Arkansas Made Mother's Day Gift Guide: 21 Gifts by Arkansas Artists

Stacey Bowers

On the hunt for an original Mother’s Day gift? Make it extra special this year with something colorful, delightful and handmade locally by an Arkansas artisan. These handmade creations by some of our favorite Arkansas artists and makers are sure to bring a smile to the moms in your life. Each of these Arkansas-made gifts can be found in-store at Bang-Up Betty’s handmade jewelry and gift store, located at 429 Main Street in Argenta.

Spring never ends when you're wearing this cast bronze or sterling silver handmade daffodil necklace or earrings. These necklaces and earrings were designed using the texture of actual petals during the casting process. Atop each flower is a bead of yellow jade to echo the sunshine color of living daffodils. Find the Daffodil Necklace and matching earrings by Bang-Up Betty online here or at our jewelry and gift shop at 429 Main Street in Argenta.

The queen bee deserves a beautiful handmade, framed bee by Little Rock artist Studio Dust Co. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

If mom loves to knit or crochet, she’ll adore this handmade yarn bowl or ceramic thimble vase by Fayetteville, Arkansas artist Pyrogenic Arts.

This gorgeous watercolor print of the Old Mill in North Little Rock is a little piece of spring you can keep on your wall year round. Find these prints and many more Arkansas scenes by Bentonville artist Joseph Buchanan in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Sometimes gorgeously simple isn’t as simple as it seems. These monogram initial necklaces are each made from hand-cast bronze and fired in a kiln. Each piece is uniquely handmade. The chain is an elegant paper-clip style chain that’s 14k gold-filled, so it’s hypoallergenic. Find these Monogram Initial Hexagon Paperclip Chain necklaces online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Meow! These incredible wooden cats by North Little Rock artist Paul Milholland have moveable heads so you can position the cat looking at different angles. Find these sculptures in store at Bang-Up Betty.

We love flowers that never die! these gorgeous ceramic floral ring dishes by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Moms and birds go together like birds of a feather. If you’re mom is into birdwatching, be sure to check out our new collection of bird jewelry called the Aviary Collection by Bang-Up Betty. Find it online here or at our store in North Little Rock.

Let mom know how loved she is by so many with this handmade print by North Little Rock artist Chelsea Allen. Prints available in many styles and colors in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Mom’s morning coffee routine needs an upgrade. These gorgeous handmade mugs by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell come in loads of different styles and are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Birthstones are beautiful and meaningful, and if you order one of Bang-Up Betty’s birthstone cluster or strand necklaces in advance we can customize the stones you’d like, so you can mix and match your family’s birthstones. Birthstone necklaces by month are available in store or online here.

Tell mom how much she means to you with a handmade card. These colorful and meaningful greeting cards by Maumelle artist Sherry J. Williamson are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Have I mentioned how much we love birds? These wire-wrapped bird nest necklaces are available in silver and gold and also with your choice of white or blue pearl eggs. Bird nest necklaces are available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online here.

Elevate the art situation in mom’s house with a stylish triptych of prints by Little Rock artist Banimilk. Find these prints and much more of her work in store at Bang-Up Betty.

What do you get the mom who has everything, including anxiety and too much on her to-do list? A ceramic worry wart by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell. You tell it your worries so you can set them free. Find a huge selection of Carla’s worry warts in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Let mom know she is a rainbow with one of these gorgeous handmade macrame wall hangings by Little Rock artist Amy Darragh of Creative Cords. These rainbow macrame hangings are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Does mom have a generous spirit? Then she’d probably love one of these “shine” necklaces by Bang-Up Betty that benefits Methodist Family Health in Little Rock. Find them in store or online here.

Show mom you love her with a little handmade wooden ring dish created by North Little Rock artist Paul Milholland. Find these gorgeous hearts in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Make mom’s kitchen so much cuter with a one-of-a-kind handmade ceramic spoon rest by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell. Find a huge selection of Carla’s spoon rests at Bang-Up Betty.

If mom is into horoscopes, she’ll love one of these gorgeous, colorful hand-printed works of art by Little Rock artist Bri Peterson. We’ve got the entire collection of zodiac prints in store at Bang-Up Betty.

These beautiful handmade flower vases by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell are the perfect way for mom to bring what she’s growing in her garden indoors to enjoy. Find a wide selection of Carla’s vases in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty is snarky, meaningful, well-made jewelry made in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Shop our handmade artisan jewelry alongside clever gifts and local art and crafts at our Argenta storefront located at 429 Main Street in North Little Rock above Ristorante Capeo.

Locally Made Mother's Day Gift Guide: 18 Arkansas Made Gifts Mom Will Love

Stacey Bowers

Handmade gifts are always a great idea, and these Arkansas-made products are perfect for Mother’s Day.

Handmade gifts are always a great idea, and these Arkansas-made products are perfect for Mother’s Day.

So you’ve outgrown making Mom macaroni necklaces, but you still want to give her something handmade (with a lot better craftsmanship) from the heart? Giving something handmade in Arkansas is like giving TWO gifts because you’re giving a super cool, creative item someone poured their heart into as well as the warm fuzzy feels that come with shopping small and local. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite locally made gifts in this Mother’s Day gift guide. Check out the decorative, useful, wearable and edible gifts here, all made in Arkansas.

Ceramicist Carla Churchwell makes these adorable ceramic houses that double as incense burners. Carla’s gorgeous pottery includes stacking heart-shaped trinket dishes, cute “worry warts,” Guinea hens and more. Find Churchwell Pottery here.

Ceramicist Carla Churchwell makes these adorable ceramic houses that double as incense burners. Carla’s gorgeous pottery includes stacking heart-shaped trinket dishes, cute “worry warts,” Guinea hens and more. Find Churchwell Pottery here.

The Red Bird Designs is tie-dye reimagined with gorgeous color palettes. Laura Grimes dyes every piece by hand, so they’re all wonderfully unique. Check out her gorgeous apparel as well as tableware here.

The Red Bird Designs is tie-dye reimagined with gorgeous color palettes. Laura Grimes dyes every piece by hand, so they’re all wonderfully unique. Check out her gorgeous apparel as well as tableware here.

Bang-Up Betty’s custom birthstone necklaces are the perfect gift for mothers, grandmothers or anyone with several special people close to their heart. Wear the birthstones of each little one in your brood! Check out the whole Birthstone Cluster Coll…

Bang-Up Betty’s custom birthstone necklaces are the perfect gift for mothers, grandmothers or anyone with several special people close to their heart. Wear the birthstones of each little one in your brood! Check out the whole Birthstone Cluster Collection of handmade jewelry here.

These custom “Real Housewives” wine glasses are hilarious, and you can have Lux + Soul print them with your hometown. Lux + Soul offers a wide range of candles and lounge wear as well, so you can create a whole self-care package for Mother’s Day. Sh…

These custom “Real Housewives” wine glasses are hilarious, and you can have Lux + Soul print them with your hometown. Lux + Soul offers a wide range of candles and lounge wear as well, so you can create a whole self-care package for Mother’s Day. Shop Lux + Soul here.

Artist Sherry J. Williamson’s colorful and delightful paintings light up any room, and her wide array of greeting cards, prints, stickers, magnets and more make cheerful gifts. And Sherry is always donating to worthy causes through her work! Check o…

Artist Sherry J. Williamson’s colorful and delightful paintings light up any room, and her wide array of greeting cards, prints, stickers, magnets and more make cheerful gifts. And Sherry is always donating to worthy causes through her work! Check out Sherry’s shop here.

Dessert chef Matcha Norwood’s inventive and delicious cheesecakes are unforgettable. Follow her at Cheesecake On Point to keep up with what she’s cooking up and where she’ll be!

Dessert chef Matcha Norwood’s inventive and delicious cheesecakes are unforgettable. Follow her at Cheesecake On Point to keep up with what she’s cooking up and where she’ll be!

Bang-Up Betty’s Arkansas Rice Flower Necklace is a nod to the Natural State that gives back. This necklace pays homage to Arkansas’s staple crop while giving back to the Arkansas Foodbank, the largest hunger relief organization in the state. The Ark…

Bang-Up Betty’s Arkansas Rice Flower Necklace is a nod to the Natural State that gives back. This necklace pays homage to Arkansas’s staple crop while giving back to the Arkansas Foodbank, the largest hunger relief organization in the state. The Arkansas pendant was made with real Arkansas rice flowers (from Cornerstone Farm, near Altheimer, AR). Get the Arkansas Rice Flower Necklace here.

North Little Rock-based woodworker Paul Milholland’s mid-century modern handcrafted wooden birds are the perfect addition to any birdwatcher’s shelves. Paul’s Danish-inspired work includes incredibly beautiful furniture as well as gorgeous figurines…

North Little Rock-based woodworker Paul Milholland’s mid-century modern handcrafted wooden birds are the perfect addition to any birdwatcher’s shelves. Paul’s Danish-inspired work includes incredibly beautiful furniture as well as gorgeous figurines like whales, herons and geese as well as the birds above. Check out Milwerk Modern here.

Moms who would love an uplifting book to add to their collection of bedtime stories will treasure Crystal C. Mercer’s From Cotton to Silk: the Magic of Black Hair. Publisher Et Alia Press describes this book perfectly: “Sprinkled with #BlackGirlMagi…

Moms who would love an uplifting book to add to their collection of bedtime stories will treasure Crystal C. Mercer’s From Cotton to Silk: the Magic of Black Hair. Publisher Et Alia Press describes this book perfectly: “Sprinkled with #BlackGirlMagic and an ode to cultural beauty, From Cotton to Silk encourages girls everywhere to appreciate their hair in its natural state and love themselves just the way they are. Its enchanting pages reveal 467 hours of hand-stitching poured into textile renderings that blend cloth, culture, and the superpowers of the kinky, curly coif.” I could spend hours staring at all the intricacies of Crystal’s illustrations! Get your copy here.

Encourage mom to do some journaling or make it easy for her to keep track of her busy schedule with a handmade fillion from Little Mountain Bindery. You can even build a custom one to make it extra personal. Shop Little Mountain Bindery here.

Encourage mom to do some journaling or make it easy for her to keep track of her busy schedule with a handmade fillion from Little Mountain Bindery. You can even build a custom one to make it extra personal. Shop Little Mountain Bindery here.

In my family, you can’t go wrong with the gift of tea from Abbi’s Teas & Things. Abbi Siler hand blends all of her teas and sources consciously, so you’re sure to get the very best tea that’s ethical and free of added sugars. Her Watermelon Rose…

In my family, you can’t go wrong with the gift of tea from Abbi’s Teas & Things. Abbi Siler hand blends all of her teas and sources consciously, so you’re sure to get the very best tea that’s ethical and free of added sugars. Her Watermelon Rose blend is legendary! Some of my other favorites include Cherry Chamomile, Lavender Lemon and Lavender Pear. Shop Abbi’s teas here.

If your childhood was filled with empty threats, immortalize them on a Bang-Up Betty custom keychain to create the funniest Mother’s Day gift ever. Get the Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around keychain here, or click here to customize your own keychai…

If your childhood was filled with empty threats, immortalize them on a Bang-Up Betty custom keychain to create the funniest Mother’s Day gift ever. Get the Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around keychain here, or click here to customize your own keychain.

Up mom’s relaxation game with CBD gummies (plus salves, cookies and drops!) made from locally grown hemp. These new watermelon CBD gummies from Hawgs Hemp Refinery in Birdtown, Arkansas, are so tasty it’s hard to not eat the whole bag in one sitting…

Up mom’s relaxation game with CBD gummies (plus salves, cookies and drops!) made from locally grown hemp. These new watermelon CBD gummies from Hawgs Hemp Refinery in Birdtown, Arkansas, are so tasty it’s hard to not eat the whole bag in one sitting. Get them here.

Bastet Glassworks got her stained glass start renovating antique church windows, and sometimes she even incorporates antique windows into her own quirky window hangings. These stained glass feather sun catchers would look beautiful in a birdwatcher’…

Bastet Glassworks got her stained glass start renovating antique church windows, and sometimes she even incorporates antique windows into her own quirky window hangings. These stained glass feather sun catchers would look beautiful in a birdwatcher’s window. Message Felicia directly on Instagram here to purchase a stained glass feather or have her create something custom for you.

Speaking of stained glass… This necklace from Bang-Up Betty’s Gallery Collection inspired by art history was fashioned after the rose windows of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It would make a perfect Mother’s Day gift for moms who love to travel and…

Speaking of stained glass… This necklace from Bang-Up Betty’s Gallery Collection inspired by art history was fashioned after the rose windows of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It would make a perfect Mother’s Day gift for moms who love to travel and need to stop and admire all the beautiful churches when they do. Find the Rose Window Necklace here. It’s part of my Gallery Collection of jewelry inspired by Art History.

Creative moms will love the handmade watercolor paint sets created by Wild Ozark. Madison Woods makes the paints by grinding up actual rocks, clay and earth from Arkansas, creating the most beautiful natural pigments. Check out her shop here.

Creative moms will love the handmade watercolor paint sets created by Wild Ozark. Madison Woods makes the paints by grinding up actual rocks, clay and earth from Arkansas, creating the most beautiful natural pigments. Check out her shop here.

Jewelry maker Elizabeth Rogers electroforms copper around gorgeous gemstones to create her signature stud earrings. These deep blue lapis lazuli studs are just one example of the dreamy stones available through her shop Web and Rock.

Jewelry maker Elizabeth Rogers electroforms copper around gorgeous gemstones to create her signature stud earrings. These deep blue lapis lazuli studs are just one example of the dreamy stones available through her shop Web and Rock.

Give Mom the gift of a new hobby! Beading is such a fun, creative activity, and the folks at Argenta Bead Company make it fun to learn, shop and socialize with their workshops and extensive shop filled with all the supplies you need to get started m…

Give Mom the gift of a new hobby! Beading is such a fun, creative activity, and the folks at Argenta Bead Company make it fun to learn, shop and socialize with their workshops and extensive shop filled with all the supplies you need to get started making jewelry. Visit them in SoMa or call them to get a gift card. Visit the Argenta Bead Company website for more information.

The Handmade Shop Local and Online Arkansas Gift Guide 2020

Stacey Bowers

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Every holiday season, I like to round up some of my current favorites in a little gift guide that highlights Arkansas artisans, artists and makers to help you shop small and shop local. Normally I’d show off new finds from craft shows or new things at our shop, but since I’m shopping online as much as possible this year to keep myself at home, I thought I’d focus on Arkansas made gifts you can have delivered straight to your door. From pottery to lapel pins, tea to trinkets, this guide has stocking stuffers and heartfelt gifts that will make this holiday season magical despite how strange this year is. Handmade gifts make the best gifts!

Every time I see potter Mariah Hatta share one of her adorable ceramic pigs, it makes me squeal with delight. Mariah creates unique pottery under the name House of Terriers, and right now she’s part of the Arkansas Art Center’s virtual Museum School…

Every time I see potter Mariah Hatta share one of her adorable ceramic pigs, it makes me squeal with delight. Mariah creates unique pottery under the name House of Terriers, and right now she’s part of the Arkansas Art Center’s virtual Museum School Sale, so these little piggies can cry “wee wee wee” all the way home to your tree without you having to leave the house. Check out Mariah’s work here. This gift is also great for hog callers. Woo pig!


This year, my good friend Ashlee Nobel of Lee Lee Arts + Design collaborated with East Sixth Brewing Company and me to create a beer inspired by Bang-Up Betty, and we used Ashlee’s incredible cat skull art in the design for the beer we named Betty’s…

This year, my good friend Ashlee Nobel of Lee Lee Arts + Design collaborated with East Sixth Brewing Company and me to create a beer inspired by Bang-Up Betty, and we used Ashlee’s incredible cat skull art in the design for the beer we named Betty’s Ninth Life. This clever cat skull art print lives in my studio now, and you can get Ashlee’s beautiful art on everything from pillows to blankets to hoodies. Check out her new yoga collection for the yogis on your list! See Ashlee’s work here.

A couple of months ago, I released my Siren Collection of handmade bronze jewelry inspired by Greek Mythology. This jewelry is handmade in Arkansas by me, and I chose to feature the Artemis Moon Necklace with crossed arrows in this gift guide. The A…

A couple of months ago, I released my Siren Collection of handmade bronze jewelry inspired by Greek Mythology. This jewelry is handmade in Arkansas by me, and I chose to feature the Artemis Moon Necklace with crossed arrows in this gift guide. The Artemis necklace is elegant, meaningful an mystical, much like the rest of the Siren Collection. See the whole collection of handmade Greek mythology jewelry here.

I’m absolutely OBSESSED with Abbi’s Teas and Things in Hillcrest, and I’m so proud of how she’s gone the extra mile to keep her business safe during the pandemic. You can find Abbi Siler at her outdoor tea stand Wednesdays and Saturdays, or you can …

I’m absolutely OBSESSED with Abbi’s Teas and Things in Hillcrest, and I’m so proud of how she’s gone the extra mile to keep her business safe during the pandemic. You can find Abbi Siler at her outdoor tea stand Wednesdays and Saturdays, or you can shop her blends online. Right now I’m all about the Cherry Fig, but I also highly recommend the Banana Nut Roo, Turmeric Sunrise and Cherry Chamomile. Shop Abbi’s Teas online here.

I’d say it’s a happy coincidence that my favorite little gift shop in Little Rock also stocks lots of Arkansas made products, but Cindi Booth is too wonderful a curator of handmade goods to chalk it up to serendipity. Candles are like booze; they al…

I’d say it’s a happy coincidence that my favorite little gift shop in Little Rock also stocks lots of Arkansas made products, but Cindi Booth is too wonderful a curator of handmade goods to chalk it up to serendipity. Candles are like booze; they almost always make a great gift. And these locally made candles come in adorable vintage-style jars, so they look great in your home. You can shop TONS of incredible things on the Stifft Station Gifts website. Here is a link to the candles in many scents.

Funny and feminist enamel lapel pins and stickers make perfect stocking stuffers, coworker gifts, teacher gifts and angsty teenager (or angsty grown-up) gifts. My line of enamel pins is huge, so you’ll likely find something perfect for a funny, sass…

Funny and feminist enamel lapel pins and stickers make perfect stocking stuffers, coworker gifts, teacher gifts and angsty teenager (or angsty grown-up) gifts. My line of enamel pins is huge, so you’ll likely find something perfect for a funny, sassy person in your life. Shop Bang-Up Betty enamel pins and stickers here.

Speaking of great enamel lapel pins, Little Rock textile artist, poet and author Crystal Mercer released a collection of enamel pins this year that are phenomenal. Choose from “Black Glow Matters,” “An Arrest Is Not Enough,” her Duafe Pin or Normali…

Speaking of great enamel lapel pins, Little Rock textile artist, poet and author Crystal Mercer released a collection of enamel pins this year that are phenomenal. Choose from “Black Glow Matters,” “An Arrest Is Not Enough,” her Duafe Pin or Normalizing Nipples pin, and be sure to check out the Kickstarter she just announced for her forthcoming book “From Cotton to Silk: The Magic of Black Hair,” to be released by Et Alia Press. Check out Crystal’s work here.

And speaking of Et Alia Press, the bookworms on your list are bound to love something from this local “small press for big voices.” Be sure to check out “The Hospice Doctor’s Widow” by Jennifer O’Brien or “But First, Save 10” by Sarah-Catherine Guti…

And speaking of Et Alia Press, the bookworms on your list are bound to love something from this local “small press for big voices.” Be sure to check out “The Hospice Doctor’s Widow” by Jennifer O’Brien or “But First, Save 10” by Sarah-Catherine Gutierrez. I read Sarah-Catherine’s book a couple of months ago and I couldn’t recommend it enough for pointers on how to get your savings on track. Check out Et Alia press here.

I’ve been a fan of Tub Tonics for a long time. Andrea knows how to make a damn fine bath bomb. Like the skull bath bomb in the intro photo to this gift guide? Amazing! Andrea makes perfect little gift sets on her site too, so you can cross someone c…

I’ve been a fan of Tub Tonics for a long time. Andrea knows how to make a damn fine bath bomb. Like the skull bath bomb in the intro photo to this gift guide? Amazing! Andrea makes perfect little gift sets on her site too, so you can cross someone completely off your list in one place. Check out her soaps, bath bombs, gift sets and more here.

I’m in love with macrame by Creative Cords. Amy Darragh’s wall hangings, like the pink one in my intro photo to this gift guide, make my heart sing, but I’m extra in love with her adorable macrame Christmas ornaments she’s been sharing lately. Check…

I’m in love with macrame by Creative Cords. Amy Darragh’s wall hangings, like the pink one in my intro photo to this gift guide, make my heart sing, but I’m extra in love with her adorable macrame Christmas ornaments she’s been sharing lately. Check out Creative Cords macrame here.

I’m always in awe of the way Erin Pierce of Organized Chaos Collection harvests beauty all around us in the form of Arkansas plants, insects, spider webs and other natural things and turns them into breathtaking art and jewelry. Erin takes pride in …

I’m always in awe of the way Erin Pierce of Organized Chaos Collection harvests beauty all around us in the form of Arkansas plants, insects, spider webs and other natural things and turns them into breathtaking art and jewelry. Erin takes pride in finding and pressing her own flowers to make these gorgeous sun catchers. See more of Erin’s work here.

Whether you want perfectly cute cookies for the holidays, need a great cookie mix to make your own, or are looking for recipes to make holiday desserts from scratch, Sarah DeClerk of Ann Potter Baking has you covered! She even has DIY cookie kits yo…

Whether you want perfectly cute cookies for the holidays, need a great cookie mix to make your own, or are looking for recipes to make holiday desserts from scratch, Sarah DeClerk of Ann Potter Baking has you covered! She even has DIY cookie kits you can order online to decorate yourself, and she JUST released a cookbook! Check out Ann Potter Baking here.

This year, it’s more important than ever to shop small, and I hope this Arkansas gift guide helps you cross a few names off your list while getting those warm and fuzzies you get when you support an awesome small business you believe in. Happy (and safe!) holiday shopping!

The Handmade Signature Bang-Up Betty Mug Made Locally In Arkansas

Stacey Bowers

As if I needed another reason to sip coffee and tea literally all day long while I make jewelry, this handmade mug is my new obsession! It was made in Arkansas by local ceramicist Valerie Goetz, and it has the perfect handle. Arkansas pottery meets …

As if I needed another reason to sip coffee and tea literally all day long while I make jewelry, this handmade mug is my new obsession! It was made in Arkansas by local ceramicist Valerie Goetz, and it has the perfect handle. Arkansas pottery meets Arkansas jewelry.

I’m obsessed with a great handmade mug, so I had one of my favorite local Arkansas potters create a beautiful mug with my logo on it that I can sip tea from every day, and I had her make a handful more of them in case you appreciate a gorgeous handmade coffee mug as much as I do. I’ve long been a huge fan of Arkansas ceramicist Valerie Goetz (AKA “Native Works”), and when I saw her making logo mugs recently, I knew I had to have one of my own.

This handbuilt mug has the perfect handle, too! I’m an amateur ceramicist myself, and I appreciate a perfect handle on a mug more than anything; it’s big enough to fit my whole hand inside. Each mug is made completely by hand, meaning they’re all a little bit different and unique. They are hand-glazed as well. I love that each one is slightly different. It’s like you’re holding a moment of that ceramic artist’s life because you can see and feel the work put into making each one by hand.

Hello, new favorite mug! Time to clear out the cabinet because you’re the only one for me. Arkansas jewelry meets Arkansas pottery with this beautiful handmade coffee mug made especially for me by Arkansas potter Valerie Goetz.

Hello, new favorite mug! Time to clear out the cabinet because you’re the only one for me. Arkansas jewelry meets Arkansas pottery with this beautiful handmade coffee mug made especially for me by Arkansas potter Valerie Goetz.

I have just a handful of these gorgeous Bang-Up Betty handmade mugs, made in Arkansas, that would make awesome holiday gifts if you have a friend who loves pottery and likes to support local. They would pair nicely with some phenomenal local tea from Abbi’s Teas and Things (might I suggest the Banana Nut Too, Cherry Fig, or Turmeric Sunrise?)!

This unique handmade mug is dishwasher safe, but Valerie doesn’t recommend microwaving it.

Bang-Up Betty Jewelry Voted Best Artisan, Stifft Station Gifts Runner-Up Best Gift Shop in Best of Arkansas

Stacey Bowers

A peek at my work bench, where I make and sell custom handmade jewelry inside Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock, Arkansas. Thank you for voting us “Best Artisan” and runner-up “Best Gift Shop” in the Best of Arkansas!

A peek at my work bench, where I make and sell custom handmade jewelry inside Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock, Arkansas. Thank you for voting us “Best Artisan” and runner-up “Best Gift Shop” in the Best of Arkansas!

I can’t say thank you enough for voting Bang-Up Betty “Best Artisan” and Stifft Station Gifts and Sundries runner-up “Best Gift Shop” in the Arkansas Times Best of Arkansas 2020. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for encouraging me to follow my dreams. Thank you for supporting my little business. Thank you for your kindness. Thank you.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for voting Bang-Up Betty “Best Artisan” for handmade jewelry and Stifft Station Gifts runner-up “Best Gift Shop” in the Arkansas Times Best of Arkansas 2020!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for voting Bang-Up Betty “Best Artisan” for handmade jewelry and Stifft Station Gifts runner-up “Best Gift Shop” in the Arkansas Times Best of Arkansas 2020!

When I started making jewelry for the second time (my first job was at Argenta Bead Company in high school!) on my living room coffee table in 2012, I couldn’t see all the amazing places it would take me. I was just making funny jewelry as gifts for my gal pals because I couldn’t find funny jewelry that I liked anywhere and I like to try to figure things out myself. Other people also had a laugh at my snarky jewelry, which began as bracelets that said things like “STFU", “GTFO,” and other curse-wordy and insinuating phrases, so I started selling them on other people’s websites until I made my own, another thing I just had to figure out how to do myself.

My handmade jewelry has evolved in many different ways over the years, and it will continue to evolve as I keep yearning to improve and expand my craft. What started as hand-stamping evolved to jewelry that included vintage parts and pieces, jewelry with semi-precious birthstones and other stones, and hand-cast bronze and fine silver pendants.

Some of my newest jewelry designs involve hand-cast bronze or fine silver pendants that I create and fire in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. You can find this owl necklace here, and take a look at my other handmade jewelry here.

Some of my newest jewelry designs involve hand-cast bronze or fine silver pendants that I create and fire in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. You can find this owl necklace here, and take a look at my other handmade jewelry here.

A few years ago, I started designing enamel lapel pins, t-shirts, tote bags, koozies, vinyl bumper stickers, keychains and other gift items as well as jewelry. Along the way, my work was featured in some pretty amazing publications and websites that I’m still completely shocked by. Early on, one of my necklaces was featured in Bust Magazine; I've had jewelry and pin designs mentioned on Buzzfeed, HuffPost, Cosmo UK, Hello Giggles and more; and I was interviewed for Chris Guillebeau’s Side Hustle School podcast twice and featured in his book 100 Side Hustles. One of my enamel pin designs for The Outrage became official merchandise for the Women’s March on Washington in January 2017.

One of my first enamel lapel pin designs, my Smash the Patriarchy Hammer Pin, was among the flair I wore at my local Women's March in 2017.

One of my first enamel lapel pin designs, my Smash the Patriarchy Hammer Pin, was among the flair I wore at my local Women's March in 2017.

In 2019, after being interviewed for Chris Guillebeau’s Side Hustle School podcast a few years back, he featured me in his book 100 Side Hustles along with a collection of my enamel pins and a peek inside my jewelry studio.

In 2019, after being interviewed for Chris Guillebeau’s Side Hustle School podcast a few years back, he featured me in his book 100 Side Hustles along with a collection of my enamel pins and a peek inside my jewelry studio.

Some of my most proud and shocked moments of doing my craft were when celebrities showed up wearing it. I saw Julianne Moore wear one of my necklaces and Janelle Monae wear one of my lapel pins, and there were a few more sightings over the years.

I’m grateful every day for the folks who believed in me and believe in me still. My favorite part of this is connecting with people over my work, whether they’re laughing at a middle finger necklace at a craft or trade show, sharing a heartfelt story about someone they love for whom I’m making a custom piece of jewelry, or getting hands on with me at one of my crafty workshops we hold at Stifft Station Gifts. Even though COVID-19 brought me physically apart from my amazing clients, I found so many ways to stay connected through social media bingo games, virtual birthday parties for my business, and virtual jewelry making classes here in Little Rock. Every day I’m thankful to get to wake up and do what I do and keep connecting to incredible people.

Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for believing in me and finding something special in my work.



Custom and Handmade Gift Ideas to Make Mother's Day Extra Special

Stacey Bowers

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I’ve been missing my mom so much while self-quarantining. We usually hang out every Sunday (and like 3 other days of the week, honestly), and the closest we’ve gotten to hanging out in four weeks is when I sat on the other end of the porch from her and my dad and scolded them for getting too close to the mailman. Not seeing my parents has been the hardest part of isolation for me. That and finding dried beans. Ok and maybe a lot of other stuff. And, yes, I know I have it easy compared to a lot of people, but I’m gonna make a bean joke where I can. (I;m thinking about thos Beans.)

Anyway, I keep thinking about how Mother’s Day is going to be…. er… weird this year. This was actually going to be the first year in several years that I was going to skip participating in a craft show and spend Mother’s Day with my mom. Now I’m scheming up ways to make Mother’s Day special from afar, and I know a lot of you are doing the same thing.

I’m already working on custom jewelry for husbands to give to their wives, wives to give to their wives, kids to give to their moms, and moms to give to their kids who have just become parents. I thought I’d round up some of my most-loved and most-creative jewelry ideas for all kinds of moms this year.

Whether mom is just really into working puzzles or she’s your missing puzzle piece right now or all of the above, this handmade bronze puzzle piece necklace will soothe her soul. These hand-cast bronze puzzle piece charms are modeled after pieces fr…

Whether mom is just really into working puzzles or she’s your missing puzzle piece right now or all of the above, this handmade bronze puzzle piece necklace will soothe her soul. These hand-cast bronze puzzle piece charms are modeled after pieces from my favorite puzzle I have at home and which I’ve been working a lot these last few weeks. You can order just one necklace with one bronze puzzle piece or get a matching one to send to your missing puzzle piece person to brighten their day.

Immortalize mom’s empty threats from childhood with a keychain that says “Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around.” These hand-stamped brass keychains can be customized to say whatever you like. They also make great gifts for dad if your dad was more of …

Immortalize mom’s empty threats from childhood with a keychain that says “Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around.” These hand-stamped brass keychains can be customized to say whatever you like. They also make great gifts for dad if your dad was more of the mother figure in your life.

These custom birthstone necklaces can feature the birthstones of all the special people in mom’s life. You can also get mom a gorgeous strand of just her birthstone. See all my birthstone jewelry here.

These custom birthstone necklaces can feature the birthstones of all the special people in mom’s life. You can also get mom a gorgeous strand of just her birthstone. See all my birthstone jewelry here.

Custom name necklaces are always a hit with moms. Add custom stamped tags for the little ones in mom’s life, and the necklaces come in silver and gold. You can also mix and match the color of the tags like the necklace shown.

Custom name necklaces are always a hit with moms. Add custom stamped tags for the little ones in mom’s life, and the necklaces come in silver and gold. You can also mix and match the color of the tags like the necklace shown.

Whether mom is edgy or sweet, these custom stamped mantra cuff bracelets can say her favorite catchphrase, snarky mantra or inspirational quote. Bonus: they are on sale while we’re working from home. Some of the favorite phrases right now are “Get S…

Whether mom is edgy or sweet, these custom stamped mantra cuff bracelets can say her favorite catchphrase, snarky mantra or inspirational quote. Bonus: they are on sale while we’re working from home. Some of the favorite phrases right now are “Get Shit Done,” “Indomitable,” and “Take No Shit.”

Maybe mom needs a little motivation right now. Maybe she misses traveling and hiking in the great outdoors. This “Keep Going” stamped mountain range necklace will make her heart sing.

Maybe mom needs a little motivation right now. Maybe she misses traveling and hiking in the great outdoors. This “Keep Going” stamped mountain range necklace will make her heart sing.

Maybe mom’s got a case of Arkansas pride. Maybe she misses Arkansas. Either way, this handmade bronze Arkansas necklace is the perfect thing to add to her jewelry collection. The hand-cast bronze Arkansas charm has a warm, golden glow and a substant…

Maybe mom’s got a case of Arkansas pride. Maybe she misses Arkansas. Either way, this handmade bronze Arkansas necklace is the perfect thing to add to her jewelry collection. The hand-cast bronze Arkansas charm has a warm, golden glow and a substantial, luxurious feel. These Arkansas necklaces are handmade and kiln-fired in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio.

Is mom the bee’s knees? Tell her with this elegant honey bee honey drop necklace that features a faceted citrine as a little drop of honey with a brass bee charm on a gold-filled chain.

Is mom the bee’s knees? Tell her with this elegant honey bee honey drop necklace that features a faceted citrine as a little drop of honey with a brass bee charm on a gold-filled chain.

Happy Mother’s Day to dog moms and cat moms, too! Anyone who knows my work knows there is an extensive selection of cat lady and cat mom jewelry in my collection, so I’m shining a light on these dog mom necklaces.

Happy Mother’s Day to dog moms and cat moms, too! Anyone who knows my work knows there is an extensive selection of cat lady and cat mom jewelry in my collection, so I’m shining a light on these dog mom necklaces.

Treat mom like the queen she is with this Queen Mother hand-stamped necklace. When you get to see her again, have tea with her, too. Missing mom’s bear hugs? Then maybe the Mama Bear stamped necklace is more her style.

Treat mom like the queen she is with this Queen Mother hand-stamped necklace. When you get to see her again, have tea with her, too. Missing mom’s bear hugs? Then maybe the Mama Bear stamped necklace is more her style.

Mom could always use a reminder of how strong she really is. This Strong As Hell stamped necklace is the perfect gift for one of the strongest people in your life.

Mom could always use a reminder of how strong she really is. This Strong As Hell stamped necklace is the perfect gift for one of the strongest people in your life.

Like the look of the custom name necklace but want to add a little more flair to it? These custom name necklaces with lockets will let mom put a tiny picture of someone she loves in a locket and wear it near her heart.

Like the look of the custom name necklace but want to add a little more flair to it? These custom name necklaces with lockets will let mom put a tiny picture of someone she loves in a locket and wear it near her heart.

How many times have you heard mom deny you a Happy Meal with the phrase “there’s food at home’? Immortalize her favorite shut-down with a custom brass stamped keychain.

How many times have you heard mom deny you a Happy Meal with the phrase “there’s food at home’? Immortalize her favorite shut-down with a custom brass stamped keychain.

Want a cute or snarky card to go with your Mother’s Day gift? You can add one of these greeting cards to your package. If you want to mail mom’s gift directly to her, we can fill out the card by hand with whatever you want it to say.

Want a cute or snarky card to go with your Mother’s Day gift? You can add one of these greeting cards to your package. If you want to mail mom’s gift directly to her, we can fill out the card by hand with whatever you want it to say.

If you are looking for more ideas of great mother’s day jewelry, please email me at stacey@bangupbetty.com and we can work together to create something perfect.

Bang-Up Betty is handmade, hand-stamped jewelry created in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. When we’re not self-isolating, you can find my jewelry at Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock, Arkansas.