Hapa's Artist Spotlight: Linda from Solstice Ltd.

                               Hapa’s Artist Spotlight
                                       Solstice LTD

1.      What made you start Solstice LTD?

“When I was a teenager, I use to bead with my friend and we would sell and give them to our other friends as gifts.  It wasn’t until about 10 years ago, I saw Sandra Bullock wearing this simple elegant lariat and thought...wow, I could do that.  I pulled out all my jewelry supplies and started beading; I sold a ton of them for $18.  It grew from there; I started purchasing premade charms to add to my designs.  It was fun, but was just not satisfying my creative side.  I wanted to make my own charms and pendants, so I took an Art Clay (fine silver) class … and well the rest is history."

2.       What makes your jewelry unique from other jewelry lines?

“I make every single one of my pieces, so each is a one of a kind design.  It’s like getting a little piece of art.  I have been creating my own original designs for the last 3 years.  Lately, when I've been doing trunk shows, people will come up to me and tell me they saw or purchased my jewelry from one of the stores I am in.  They recognized my design and were able to tell it was “mine” just by looking at it!  That is so rewarding.  It meant I have a signature style.”

            3.   What is the jewelry made of?

“My charms and pendants are made of Pure Silver (.999 FS) meaning there are no other alloys mixed with the silver.  I also offer my line in 24K Gold Vermeil.  The chains are either sterling silver or gold filled. “

 4.  What inspires you to make the pieces you do?            

“I love to create and I believe there are no such things as mistakes, only happy accidents.  My ultimate goal is to bring out a little of the wearer’s personality, to bring a smile to their face or even make them giggle a little.  I like to call my jewelry “Whimsically BoHo Chic.” It is light hearted, fun, yet chic.”

Thank you Linda from Solstice LTD for taking the time to do this wonderful interview!

Come get your own piece of Solstice LTD at Hapa Collective!

Donation Boxes for : Precious Life Shelter & Seal Beach Animal Care Center

       The holidays are a time of giving… Here at Hapa Collective we couldn’t agree more. During this holiday season we’ve set up two donation boxes in front of our store for  two organizations that  we think deserve some holiday cheer and love!

      The first non-profit we have a box for is the Precious Life Shelter. The Precious Life Shelter is a place that provides shelter and support for pregnant women who are homeless. At Precious Life Shelter they provide these women with the tools and support they will need to raise a family and get back on their feet. Some items that are needed are receiving blankets,diapers, maternity clothes, and etc. For more information on what items are needed and tax information please go to: www. Preciouslifeshelter.org/donations/

The second non-profit is the Seal Beach Animal Care Center. What is wonderful about the Seal Beach Animal Care Center is it is a no kill shelter.The amazing volunteers/staff make sure the animals are loved and comfortable till they find a family to adopt them.  What would be great presents for these cats and dogs are volunteers to play with them, canned & dry cat food, science diet dog food, cat litter, dog toys, and stainless steel food dishes in all sizes, and most of all a loving home. For more information on what these four legged friends need please  go to:

http://www.sbacc.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11&Itemid=9

The gift of giving comes full circle when you bring in an item for one of these two non-profits you will get 10% off your purchase here at Hapa Collective and a big thank you from us! The last drop off day in time for the holidays is Saturday, December 22, 2012.  We hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season!

                                                              Happy Holidays!

Artist Spotlight: Creature Cashmere

Artist Spotlight

Creature Cashmere

1. What made you want to start your line" Creature Cashmere" ?

     “I started taking a sewing class about 3 1/2 years ago. Each student was

responsible for coming up with their own projects with the emphasis being on

reduce/reuse/recycle. When I discussed my idea with the teacher of using

cashmere she was very supportive and gave me guidance how to sew with knit

fabric. I started with scarves but soon moved to doggie sweaters. A few of my

friends owned retail stores and loved the idea of cashmere doggie sweaters from

repurposed cashmere. So they agreed to try some of my items in their stores.

Their encouragement  and having people actually buy my products gave me the

confidence to start producing more and it took off from there.”

2. What is the story behind your lines name?

   “Since I mostly did doggie sweaters in the very beginning I wanted something

to represent a pet line but also wanted the flexibility in the name that would allow me to develop the 'human' line as well. And, since cashmere is my primary material Creature Cashmere just worked.”

3. Where would you like to see your line in 5 years? 10yrs?

     “ At this point it's hard to anticipate where I'll be in 5 or 10 years. I left

corporate America to escape big business so I'm really enjoying the smallness

and the creativity of being a one person shop allows. It's hard to anticipate

market demand. I'll continue creating as long as I have a niche and am still

having fun doing what I do.”

4. What makes your line unique than others?

      “There aren't a lot of people repurposing cashmere at the one-of-a-kind level

at this point. And I haven't seen anyone incorporating crocheted finishing (like what I do with gloves and headbands). I get quite a few special requests for certain colors, styles, etc. I think my ability to fulfill many of these requests makes my business unique.”

5.  What fabrics do you use?

     “All of my people products are 100% repurposed cashmere. My pet products,

while all natural fibers may have some cotton, silk or other wools.”

6. Where do you find the fabrics you use?

     “ 90% of the fabric I use comes from charity thrift stores. I love that I can contribute to a charity while finding material for my products. The remainder comes from friends and occasional garage sale.”

Hapa Collective has a variety of Creature Cashmere's beautiful fashions now in stock for the holidays!

Stocking Stuffers for $25 and Under!

Christmas is on it's way! It's time to start (if you haven't already, but we're sure you have) thinking about what to get your parents, your friends, and co-workers. Don't forget about those Christmas stockings! Fill them with these really cool gifts from our Hapa artists.

Here's a list of some of the best of the best from Hapa Collective. And the best part? They are all under $25!

FOR THE GUYS

1.  " Luke I am your father eat your vegetables"(Saturday Morning Pancakes) $24.00 2. Bob Marley Coasters( Gomez Carving) $24.00 3. Card Wallets(MandaLanda) $20.00 4. Motorcycle flask( Lady Rene) $22.00

5. Whiskey stones( Teroforma) $19.50

FOR THE LADIES

1. Chapstick/Body butter gift set (Jess' Bee Natural ) $15.00 2. Purple lace earrings (Sachi Love) $23.00 3. Fresh Plumeria Bliss candle( PurBliss) $18.00 4. Cinnamon Bun scented goats milk soap ( Savannah Blue) $9.00

 5. Flower rings (UnlocktheCure) $10.00

FOR THE KIDS

1. Shrink-a-Dink coffee mug and donut earrings(Unicorn Crafts) $ 18.00 2. Abraham Lincoln Crayon mold(Crayon Fawn) $15.00 3. Tillie and the rabbit ( by J.A. Dalman and illustrations by Jamie Meckel) $8.00 4. Patsy the pig Whee One ( CMH Designs LLC) $ 18.00 5. Race car bike bell (Spoke N Wheel Designs) $22.00

FOR THE PETS/ PET LOVERS

1. Dog tote bag ( different breeds avaliable/ as well as cats) $12.00 2. Peanut Butter Cinniffers dog treats ( The Lazy Dog) $ 6.50 3. Dog Magnet ( different breeds available/ as well as cats) (Elemental  Choice)
 $ 4.00 4. LED collar light for nightitme walks  (Nite Ize) $ 8.00 5. Sock Monkey toy (Sock-ratees & Friends) $10.00

And this is just the start. Come see these and tons more at Hapa Collective!

Happy Holidays!

Artist Spotlight: Cherry on Top Designs

 

 

Meet Cherry on Top

Eclectic Designs for Your Lifestyle

 



Where are you located?

I hail from North Orange County.

Is crafting something you do full time or as a hobby?

Crafting is my favorite hobby. I have many different craft interests.

 

What inspired you to start crafting?

I think my crafting interests started in being a Girl Scout & learning different crafts while earning badges.

 

What is your favorite thing to make? Why?

I dabble in jewelry, sewing, stamp carving, metal embossing and making amusing items that make you smile. I enjoy taking something & giving it new life in another form...like a vinyl record into a bowl, or Scrabble letter tiles and displaying them to celebrate something or inspire or just share some love.

Stop by Hapa Collective and check out Cherry on Top Designs...Oh, the possibilities! A record bowl, inspiring scrabble signs, and fun scrabble tile rings. Great holiday gifts and stocking stuffers!



Holiday Raffle!

Hapa Collective appreciates you all so much! This holiday season we are teaming up with many of our artists to offer you 7 amazing raffle boxes. With each increment of $20 spent at Hapa Collective, we give you 1 raffle ticket to put in the box of your choice.

#1 Seal Beach Fanatic

This box features a T-Shirt bag by Repeat Tee's, a scrabble ring from Cherry on Top, a Hawaiian Hebrew shell keychain by Bling Blossom Hawaii, a great dog tag necklace by Kate Mesta, and a bike bell by SpokeNwheel.

#2 Jewelry Obsession

This box features origami earrings by Kitten, earrings by BirdQueen, a fun wish necklace by Punky Bunny, a necklace from Hau'oli by Hali, a bracelet by Unlock the Cure, a bracelet by Miss Vicky, a beautiful Amethyst necklace and a vintage inspired locket necklace.

#3 All About The Man

This box features T-Shirts by Urban Octopus and Ditch Ink, a flask by Lady Rene, Whisky Stones, and a great set of coasters from Steve Gomez. 

#4 Puppy Love

This box features a mesh harness, bandana, dog water bottle by Dog Is Good, a collar by Sophies Threads, and a great magnet by Elemental Choice.

#5 Children At Play

This box features a Whee One and bib by CMH Designs, a crayon set from CrayonFawn, a bike bell by SpokeNwheel, and a beanie by Modern Knits.

#6 The Fashionista

This box features an upcycled infinity scarf by Two Little Jays, a beanie by Tara Jaggars, a Cafe Corset and felt IPhone case by Barb's Custom Creations

#7 Home Sweet Home

This box features a vintage apron Jovita, a beautiful Mosaic box by Sylvia Marie, a Carpe Diem poster by SkelDesign, a scrabble sign from Cherry on Top, a PurBliss soy candle, a vintage platter from Kitten Borgers, and a lovely shell terrarium by Jane.

Come by and look at all the raffle prizes in our front window. Then walk inside Hapa Collective, do your holiday shopping and get your raffle tickets. Drawing will be held on December 10th and winner need not be present.

So please shop local, support mom and pop stores, feed an artist

Happy, happy holidays!!!

Artist Spotlight: Crayon Fawn

Great vintage finds and crayon sculptures

So, Tamara, where are you located?

I live in Long Beach

 

What did you do first, vintage or crayon sculptures and What inspired you?

Growing up, my grandmother used to take me to thrift shops and antique malls all the time. That's how I developed an appreciation for things from past eras. Most of my favorite clothing and toys were from those places. Of course I didn't know what vintage was at the time, I just liked having cool and unique toys and clothing. Fortunately as I got older the music and culture I was into also had a vintage aesthetic. Naturally it seemed like the next step would be to sell some of my awesome vintage finds.
In my teens I would make more of a free form type of wax sculptures with colored candles. When I was going to CSULA for my Bachelor Degree of Art, I took a three dimensional art class and learned mold making. From there, I just combined the two ideas using crayons and that's how Crayon Fawn was created.

 

Where do you get your crayons from, are they donated to you?

Most of my crayons are given to me by friends and family. I am really lucky in that aspect. I have put ads out on Craigslist, but I have encountered some strange people that way so I don't do that anymore. But that's Craigslist Ha ha!

 

Are you big on garage sales or do you look more at vintage stores and flea markets?

I mostly shop and thrift stores or at estate sales.

 

New for pets and their people.

For pet's sake, treat them (and yourself) this fall! We've gotten in some great goodies recently, don't they deserve a little pampering?!

It's cooling down, time to snag these great sweaters from My Fabulous Puppy for night time and early morning walks.

For you, a little token of your dog or cat appreciation!

Also, we're restocked with our favorite treats which are soy, wheat and corn free!



We've gotten in some great new vintage pet items, too! Hurry in, even if it's on your daily walk and it's just for a treat! We love our 4-legged visitors!

Artist Spotlight: Ashley Stoddard.

Have you meet Ashley Stoddard and her jewelry carried at Hapa Collective?

 

1. A little about you: where you're from, where you are now?

 I grew up in Placerville, CA. I now live and work out of my home in Eden, Utah.

 

2. How did you get started making jewelry?

 I am the daughter of the late, world renowned sculptor Bob Bennett. I was exposed to art throughout my childhood. I attended the Academy of Art in San Francisco. I am self taught in jewelry.

 

3. What inspires your pieces?

I am inspired by God, nature, charity, people, colors, textures, and materials. The first pendant I did was for Image Reborn retreats for women with breast cancer in Park City. I was inspired by my friend Eileen, who sits on the board. I thought by making a pendant they could raise some money for the organization and also be something symbolic for all associated. That was four years ago, since then I have worked with 29 charities.

 

4. What are your favorite materials to use?

I like to use all kinds of materials. Silver, pewter, leather, and stones for my Jewelry. Oil, Acrylic, Steel, and Bronze for my fine art.

 

5. I understand you have a studio in Carmel, is that just for jewelry or are there any other crafts/arts you do?

Yes, I am involved in the family gallery there. I show my paintings and they are all originals. I have recently completed a documentary "Art and Soul", as well.

It's Halloween time!

Well, Ghouls and Gals, it's that time of year again! Trick or Treating, costume parties, and decorating. Halloween is the holiday kick off and what better way than to come snag some goodies at Hapa!

 

Great pet costumes and accessories! From bow ties to hats to crochet Superman costumes!

 

Cute little pin back buttons, fun scrabble signs, scary flasks, and origami bat garlands!

 

Funky jewelry! Nightmare Before Christmas scrabble rings, bottle cap earrings with great Halloween characters, out of the ordinary rings, and fun stud earrings!

 

Going to a party and don't have a costume? This Ugly Halloween sweater should do the trick, or some cat ears!

 

We've even got stuff for the little ones! Trick or Treat bags, great beanies, and awesome Halloween bibs.

 

Hurry in, before it's too late...Mwuahahahaha!

Artist Spotlight: Kitten Borgers

First, let's start with the basics...Where you're from and where you are now.

Born in Montana and moved to Long Beach when I was 4. I went to Wilson High School. Then I went to UCSC right at the height of hippie-dom, which could account for my aesthetics, somewhat.

Is Kitten your real name?

No, when I was born my initials spelled MEW (like a small kitten), so I was called Kitten forever after that. Also, I have a sister who was born on Friday the 13th, so her name is Jinx. My dad had a great sense of humor.

What got you into making the crane earrings?

Well when I was in 3rd grade my Sunday school teacher taught us to make the Cranes, I'm sure it was because he wanted us to be quiet during the lesson. I couldn't tell you what the lesson was, but I still remember the Cranes. A few years later, I saw one as a Christmas ornament and it looked like an earring. I thought "why couldn't I make them into earrings?" and so I did. It took a long time to figure out how to seal them, what varnish/seal to use so they stay functional and can handle weather. Want to know what the secret is? Clear nail polish.

How long does it take you to make one pair?

It only takes about 5 minutes to fold the paper, what takes the time is the number of coats of nail polish. I try to use paper with the thickness of the cover of a magazine. But if I find a paper I can't live without, I'll go thinner. That usually takes 5 or 6 coats of nail polish. The drying and reapplying is what takes the most time.

The Cranes are so small, what size is the paper before you start folding?

The average size is 1" x 1". The best thing to use is pages from catalogs that sell sheets, towels, and duvet covers. I can usually find a big enough space with the same color, so I'm able to make a matching pair of earrings.

Are there any other crafts you do?

I paint furniture and pet portraits, as well. My husband says he's afraid to stand still, because I'll paint anything that's still. If I'm not painting, I'm walking dogs.

How did you get into art?

I got into art because I couldn't dance anymore. I was a dance teacher and after a while, my body couldn't do it anymore. I needed to put my creative juices to work somehow.

Beanies are taking over!

Finally, the nights are cooling down enough to layer a little! Chilly weather is well on it's way, better start getting prepared now!

(Top left) Mom and Daughter team: Modern Knits. Their crochet beanies can be worn alone or paired with an upcycled vintage necktie flower pin.

(Top right)  Some more great pieces by Vicki Olson! Perfect for keeping the kiddos nice and toasty.

(Bottom left) A huge selection of simple, slouchy beanies by Tara Jade Design.

(Bottom right) Audrey Miller created some awesome fleece hats...with ears!! Great for teens and funky adults!

We have some great scarves and gloves, too! Stop in and stock up for winter gifts or for yourself!

Artist Spotlight: Mila Delfin Jewelry

Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Mila Delfin had a knack for jewelry from early childhood. It started by admiring her mother's jewelry, which inspired her jewelry designs today. She learned Peruvian jewelry techniques and continued her education upon moving here.
She works primarily with Metals such as Sterling Silver, Metal Clay, and beadwork. On top of being a designer, she is also a Precious Metal Clay (PMC) instructor.

Simple leaf earrings.

Beautiful floral detailed bracelet with Emerald beads.

Gold Vermeil and Clay shell pendant neclace.

We have an entire case full of her awesome jewels! Stop in and check them out! Holidays are right around the corner! 

Local Love.

Home is where your heart is...But home may not be a house, it could be your best friend, your favorite place, or the city you've always lived in! To us, Seal Beach has our heart. We've got some great things for those of you whose heart belongs here too!

"Support In Love Seal Beach" T-Shirt cross over bag, bike bell, and scrabble tile rings decorate Hapa Collective

Seal Beach map "stash" necklace (top left), Patina Seal with beach ball necklace (bottom left), Simple Seal Beach stamped disc necklace (top right), Seal Beach coordinates necklace (middle right), Kate Mesta Seal Beach dogtag.

Colorful crochet baby seals!

And for the guys...Old Fart Surfboards T-Shirt with Seal Beach on front!

We love Seal Beach! Come visit, hang for a while, and make yourself at home.

Artist Spotlight: MelenArt Bags.

Few are those fortunate enough to work with their significant other, their better half, their best friend, the love of their life. MelenArt Bags have been so successful, due to the fact that Ruben and Cecy are a husband/wife team both sharing the same passion. They are local Long Beach residents with 2 children. Ruben has a background in Fashion Design and has been designing since 2001.
All the bags are cut and sewn individually, most of them being one of a kind or limited edition. They come in 3 styles:

Small crossbody bags, perfect for those on the go, needing just a few essentials.

Large crossbody bags, perfect for the trend setter who carries everything for any situation.

Shoulder bags, perfect for EVERY one!!

We've got some great fall colors and prints so stop by Hapa Collective and pick yours up. You can never have too many purses.

Artist Spotlight: Saturday Morning Pancakes.

Lately, witty one liners and funny quotes are the cat's meow. Jamie of Saturday Morning Pancakes has definitely mastered the art! All items are handmade by her in San Clemente, CA. Her mission is to: "make handcrafted whimsical items that brighten my day and hopefully will brighten yours."

Great Tote Bags!

Super Cute Towels!

Hillarious Aprons.

Great One Of A Kind Onesies!

Come in and check out the variety of great items by Saturday Morning Pancakes. Guaranteed a smile or a chuckle!

Artist Spotlight: Audrey Miller Art

When you're a kid, you always dream of what you want to do when you grow up. Audrey of Audrey Miller Art, dreamt of being an artist...and became just that! She has always painted and drawn, what she calls, "the cute and the weird." She is also a self-taught photographer. Having a mix of her art at Hapa Collective is an honor.

A great selection of original illustrations and photographs, on pin-back buttons!

We have this cute little guy on greeting cards! (Another original illustration)

Greeting card sets of awesome beach scenes she's photographed!

Be sure to stop by to enjoy her art and pick the special ones just for you and for gifts.

Bonus! Audrey will also be helping us at our booth during the annual Wag n' Walk Festival (http://www.oc-breeze.com/2012/08/24/17045_seal-beach-animal-care-center-announces-the-17th-annual-wag-n-walk/) September 29th at the Seal Beach Pier . She will bring her collection of art as well provide face painting for both 2 and 4-legged creatures! Don't miss this fun event!

Flowers, Flowers, Everywhere!

Big ones, small ones, some as big as your head! Flowers will always be around; whether they're in your garden, on your clothes, in your hair, or on your table. We have a huge selection of floral items!

Leather Flowers! Braceles and keychains by Leather E and Hair clip by Lint&Button.

Great floral Bags!

Earrings with real flowers! Vintage flowers! Flowers for your hair!

Paper Mache boxes with flowers, flowers on stained glass, flowers on picture frames, and flowers on bookmarks!

Flowers on headbands for babies and beautiful ribbon flowers on hats.

Flowers on soaps!

Flowers for men, flowers for your bikes, and flowers for your pets!

Think we have enough?! Come in and check out our selection, there's so much more!