Thoughts from the Lilypad

Updates, new charms, and notes from the workbench pond.

Studio updates, event recaps, and the small stories behind the pieces. Pull up a lilypad and read along.

July 28, 2026

New Charms on the Workbench

The workbench has been busy this month. I sorted through a big batch of new charms and picked out the ones that made me smile the most: pressed flower shapes, tiny animals, and a handful of bookish pieces for the readers who always stop by the table first.

Every new charm gets tested on a keychain and a bookmark before it makes the cut. If it snags, spins the wrong way, or feels flimsy, it does not go in the tray. That little bit of extra fussing is why the pieces hold up so well.

Come find these on the trays at the next craft fair, or send a custom request if you already know exactly which combination you want.

July 12, 2026

What Happens at the Charm Bar

People often ask what the Charm Bar actually looks like in person. It is a table full of trays, a base of your choosing, and as much time as you need to decide. No rush, no pressure, and no wrong combinations.

You pick a base, mix and match charms until it feels like you, and I assemble the piece on the spot. Kids love watching the pliers work, and grown-ups usually end up designing one for themselves too.

It travels well to birthdays, showers, girls nights, book clubs, bar and bat mitzvahs, team parties, school events, and craft fairs. If you are curious about hosting one, the inquiry form is the fastest way to start.

June 30, 2026

Caring for Your Handmade Pieces

Handmade pieces last a long time with very little effort. Keep charms dry, and remove earrings before swimming or showering. Water and soap are the two things that dull beads and metal the fastest.

Wipe metal pieces with a soft dry cloth after wearing them, and store everything flat or hanging so strands do not tangle. A small dish or a hook by the door works perfectly.

If a strand ever needs a repair, reach out. I would much rather fix a favorite piece than see it sit in a drawer.