Over the past few months, I've had a bit of an epiphany. I love making all kinds of products but what has always made me the happiest is making things by hand.
After years of (frustration) working with overseas factories and making mass produced goods like pins, patches and so on, I've decided to go back to my roots and switch my main focus to vintage inspired handmade goods. It feels so good to take back control and create every piece myself. No more waiting weeks to see a sample only to be disappointed. Now I can whip up a pair of earrings on my kitchen counter in Los Angeles (my new favorite place to make things) and ship them out the next day.
I've always loved DIY culture, in fact I've been making jewelry since I was a kid. My Mom, also an artist, taught me how to make earrings when I was five, in 1985. We sold them on weekends at the local flea market in Sacramento, CA. Earrings continue to be my favorite accessory to make (and buy!)
As a fashion/accessories brand, Laser Kitten is all about DIY. We give you everything you need to customize your outfits with flair. We even have our own line of 'glitter punk' fashion art/craft supplies; Puffy Paint, Fabric Markers and Textile Stencils.
Making things by hand and adding a personal touch is important to me, it's the best form of meditation and therapy I know. In the past, I've enjoyed hosting 'Laser Kitten Remix' workshops in our studio, where you bring a blank denim jacket and we provide everything you need to completely transform it with pins, patches, fabric markers, safety pins, glitter, paint, lace trim, studs and more!
Lastly, I started writing a book about Arts and Crafts for kids. Arts and crafts can help kids in so many ways from nurturing creativity and helping them develop motor skills to expressing themselves and deal with emotional issues. I hope to have it finished soon!
Nothing means more to an artist than their audience and customers. I love and appreciate all of you and thanks for sticking with me on the journey!
xx,
Marisa