Around 1982, as my son became a teenager, I found myself restless and in need of a hobby. One day I wandered into a ceramic shop and purchased a little bear which I taught myself to paint with acrylic paints. My family, friends and colleagues were so enamored with my work, that I sold 25 little bears that year and used the money for Christmas gifts. As a single mother, I realized I could be creative and earn extra money! I was hooked!

Over the years, I have taken many classes to improve my techniques and am a certified instructor in ceramics, porcelain and stoneware, as well as many paint applications. I have had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful people in this industry who encouraged and helped me achieve my goals, including daring me to enter my pieces in competition. I was shocked when, entering my first stoneware piece in competition, I won Best of Category, Best of Group and Best of Show.

While working trade shows for a company demonstrating their paint products, I discovered these wonderful resin dolls created by Julia Rueger. In 2006, I purchased Julia Rueger Ltd.’s “Littles” and am thrilled to be able to bring these amazing doll and bear kits to you so you can create your own “works of art.”

The “Littles” are representative of many families and you will find one that reminds you of a special friend or family member. They were created to make you smile or even laugh! That is the wonder of these dolls, they reach out and touch a soft spot in your heart.