November 24, 2015
Kristi b Studios
Maker Spotlight
This week got a lot prettier after checking out Kristi b Studios. These wall hangings and antler pieces are headed to our Austin Holiday Fair this weekend. Talk about the perfect natural piece to make your home extra special for the holidays.
Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting history behind?
I actually already had the name Kristi b Studios for my career as a hair and makeup artist. When I joined a salon and became a part of a team the name sort of fizzled as I stopped working freelance. I didn’t think twice about using it again. I owned the domain and designed the logo. Why leave it wasting?
Have you always been passionate about design?
Very. I’ve tried any and every thing I can get my hands on. I’ve done work as a photographer, graphic designer, video editor, and am currently a videographer and a hairstylist.
When/Why did you start working in this particular craft/field?
I have had this vision for a few years now. But, the hard truth is that I didn’t actually start working on it until about 2 weeks before I applied for Renegade. I kept it to myself for so long because it was my dream of success and if I put it out in the world that dream could die. Call it a burst of courage or whatever you want, but I’m doing it. I’m making my dream a reality.
What do you think sets your designs apart from others?
I’ve seen a lot of things done with antlers, but not much with real flowers and real antlers. More than that, I wanted to create something unique and affordable. Let’s be real, antlers are expensive. I want art to be attainable to everyone.
Have you had any major failures? If so, what were some important insights gained?
I haven’t yet, but I know they’re coming! Until then all I can do is know I will face them and be ready to make the best of it.
Have you sacrificed anything to create your business? If so, what was it, and do you have any regrets?
I went part time as a hairstylist to make this happen. I was extremely nervous about it, but now that I’m on the other side, I realize it was the best decision. Starting a business take a lot of time and commitment.
What has been your proudest/favorite moment since creating your business?
Definitely getting into renegade. That was kind of my “make or break.” I’ve been going to renegade for years. Every time I’d walked through, I’d dream of being a vendor and sharing a space with so many other creatives. My friends and family were supportive of the jump, but to have the impartial support of an established fair… that was such an encouragement. I felt like I’m not crazy for wanting to do this. Or maybe I am, but you have to have a little crazy in your bones to follow your dreams.
How does the city you live in influence your work?
The banners are all things Austin. We are constantly looking for what Austinites are loving.
The funny thing about what I do is that I am working with bones. Sometimes not fully decomposed bones. I hand select all the antlers. What that looks like is me digging through (sometimes smelly) piles of antlers and skulls to find the perfect one. Interesting fact about me, I can’t even eat meat off the bone. It completely grosses me out. So it can be very comical to watch me go through this process. It’s the definition of love/hate. Once they’re clean I love every second of it. Everything has it’s ups and downs.
We can’t wait to see all of Kristi b Studio’s pieces at our Austin Fair this weekend. In the meantime, check out what’s online here: