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Woodlands retro artisan recognized as ''Best Jewelry Designer'' by Texas Makers

By: J. Werner
| Published 06/16/2015

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THE WOODLANDS, Texas - Call her a retro artist, an upcycler, an eco-artist, and now call her the “Best Jewelry Designer” upon winning the 2015 Texas Makers “Indie” Award for the original, one-of-a-kind jewelry Lorraine Richardson makes from little bits of items and baubles, which gives her unique jewelry line its name, “Bits and Bobs.”

Lorraine Richardson's ''Bits and Bobs'' acknowledged for originality, beauty, and its eco-friendly concept.

The contest is sponsored by Pop Shop America, owned by Brittany Bly, and every year artists and writers throughout the state of Texas are acknowledged for their excellence. Other artisans, customers, and those who peruse the social media, vote online for the winners.

“I have always had a passion for art, creating things and repurposing old forgotten objects; finding beauty in otherwise forgotten items,” said Lorraine Richardson, a Woodlands resident, who hopes to open a brick and mortar shop some day that will feature other artisans, like her Feast of Artisans outdoor market which pops up at different locations throughout the county. The ‘pop-up’ markets feature locally-sourced, handmade items, food products, produce, and Richardson’s “Bits and Bobs.”

“Supporting local is very important to me,” said Richardson, who has a long history of supporting local businesses. One of the original newspapers in The Woodlands, the Clocktower Times, was published by Richardson, and featured local news and events in the Panther Creek Shopping Center area. For over a quarter of a century she organized and promoted the Panther Creek spring and fall craft fairs, and started the first farmers market in The Woodlands.

Richardson’s jewelry business has now become her primary focus in order to provide enough inventory for the many shows and craft fairs she has booked on her calendar, but a good percentage of her business is custom orders. Personalizing jewelry with initials and photos, makes wonderful bridesmaid gifts, presents for Mother’s Day, and something special for your BFF (Best Friend Forever.)

Every handcrafted piece of jewelry is a work of art sourced from objects of antiquity like antique pearl buttons, old keys, vintage lace, and even crystals from chandeliers. The finished effect is vintage and feminine, reminiscent of the Victorian era.

“Most of the items are stuff you’d probably throw away,” said Richardson. “I can’t! I can re-purpose anything.”

But don’t ask Richardson to make items in volume.

"I don’t ever replicate anything," added Richardson. “Each piece has its own story.”

If you haven’t crossed paths with Richardson at the numerous craft shows and markets she’s been at, you can see her creative and whimsical creations on her website, Etsy and Facebook pages (see links provided). They’re original, they’re unique, and they’re a winner!

The winners are now eligible for a grant to further their craft. The same fan base that voted the winners in their respective fields, are eligible to vote for the grant recipient. To vote for “Bits and Bobs,” a local entrepreneur, go to Mission Street Grants. Support local!

People often wonder what the collectibles of tomorrow will be; the same they were 100 years ago. The unique, one-of-a-kind items crafted by talented artisans today.

#BitsAndBobs #ShopLocal #oneofakind

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