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How to care for your Bang-Up Betty brass, gold and silver stamped jewelry, how to style your jewelry and apparel, what trends are fresh in stamped jewelry, and more.

2023 Holiday Handmade Local Gift Guide: 33 Gifts by Arkansas Artists and Makers

Stacey Bowers

There’s nothing more special than a handmade gift. At Bang-Up Betty, we’re focused on finding and supporting Arkansas artisans and artists who make art and gifts we truly love. Our jewelry and gift store in downtown North Little Rock showcases unique, unusual and excellent Arkansas-made items that you can bet will bring a surprised smile to your loved ones’ faces this holiday season. Not only is every piece of jewelry (and there are hundreds) made here in Arkansas by us, our storefront is stocked with art, pottery, candles, and more by artists all across the state of Arkansas. Here are 33 of our favorite local Arkansas gifts that you can find at Bang-Up Betty:

These little ceramic vase faces by Hot Springs ceramicist Carla Churchwell are perfect for holding your favorite flowers and come in all colors, sizes and expressions.

Bentonville watercolorist Joseph Buchanan painted these Christmas cards especially for our shop.

Maumelle-based artist Sherry J. Williamson’s handmade ornaments incorporate her paintings with gorgeous glass beads.

Sometimes gorgeously simple isn’t as simple as it seems. These monogram initial necklaces are each made in our studio at Bang-Up Betty from hand-cast bronze and fired in a kiln. Each piece is uniquely handmade. The chain is an elegant paper-clip style chain that’s 14k gold-filled, so it’s hypoallergenic. Chains are 18 inches long, but if you’d prefer a longer necklace you can add an extender here.

Russellville multimedia artist BabyCreep turned her art into wearable, giftable keychains and we’ve got some right here at the shop.

Hot Springs ceramicist Carla Churchwell’s bold use of color and illustration make for perfect pottery gifts, and everyone needs a spoon rest in their kitchen.

Springdale artist Sigrid Lorfing’s gorgeous, colorful paintings are available as prints at Bang-Up Betty.

With the total solar eclipse coming up quick (April 2024!), our Solar Eclipse necklace makes a timely gift. The sterling silver moon swings back and forth over the bronze sun. Find the Solar Eclipse Necklace by Bang-Up Betty in store or online here.

Maumelle-based artist Clever + Tidy makes these perfect little floral Arkansas keychains that we carry at Bang-Up Betty.

Little Rock print maker Bri Peterson created an entire zodiac collection of insect-themed prints for each astrological sign, and we’ve got them all at Bang-Up Betty.

North Little Rock candle maker Dogtown Scents is known for her incredible-smelling candles, and she’s brought us a small batch of wintery candles complete with Arkansas crystals in them.

Bang-Up Betty is known for our snarky sticker collection, and you can find tons of water-bottle-safe options in store or online here. They make great stocking stuffers!

Little Rock artist Kasten Searles created this amazing coloring book featuring the many drag queens of the south, and we’ve got it in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Hot Springs ceramicist Carla Churchwell does it again! We absolutely love her handmade mugs that come in gorgeous colors and prints. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

If you love Russellville artist BabyCreep’s ceramics, you’ll love her printed tea towels that’ll add a pop of color and creep to your kitchen. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty has been stamping custom mantra cuffs longer than anybody in town and offering hilarious and inspirational phrases as well as custom options. Find them online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

We love Sherwood-based artist Ashlee Nobel’s (Lee Lee Arts + Design) mystical illustrations and they fly off the shelves here!

Keep Arkansas proud with these handmade ornaments by Fayetteville artist Pyrogenic Arts. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Maumelle-based Sherry J. Williamson made these clever “Merry Dissentmas” cards as a nod to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and we’ve got them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

If you love Bentonville artist Joseph Buchanan’s watercolor holiday cards, you’ll love his Arkansas matted prints, including scenes of War Eagle Mill, the Old Mill, Argenta and more. They’re available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell’s ornaments are just as creative as the rest of her pottery! Find her one-of-a-kind ornaments in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty’s newest handmade artisan jewelry collection, the Anatomy Collection, is all about the human body and medicine. Check out the entire collection online here or in store. This jewelry would make a great gift for the doctors, nurses and med students in your life.

Speaking of anatomy, North Little Rock artist Chelsea Allen created these clever felted ornaments featuring body parts, mushrooms and more, available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

We love a pretty soap gift! These pride soaps by Maumelle-based Summit Valley Soap smell as good as they look. Find them online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty is known for snarky pins, which make great stocking stuffers. You can shop lapel pins online here or in store.

North Little Rock wood artist Paul Milholland of Milwerk Modern makes the grooviest wooden sculptures of birds, cats, whales and more. We think this one would be a great gift for a hogs fan. Find it in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty loves to make custom stamped keychains if you have a special word of phrase you’d like to gift to someone, but we also have a ton of already stamped hilarious keychains in store. Find keychains online here.

Arkansas artist Chaotic Creative Co makes these cheerful packs of positivity postcards for folks who love to send hand-written notes. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty or online here.

Local literature is the best literature! Bang-Up Betty carries a selection of locally written and printed books published by Et Alia Press.

Locally made artisan jewelry makes the perfect gift, and Bang-Up Betty delivers with hundreds of unique designs made by hand in Arkansas. Find these online here or in store.

Little Rock macrame artist Amy Darragh of Creative Cords makes the most beautiful, colorful macrame creations, including these rainbow wall hangings she made especially for us here at Bang-Up Betty.

We love a forest of tiny ceramic Christmas trees! Hot Springs ceramicist Carla Churchwell made a massive forest of these little guys for us so you can build your own tiny forest at home. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

We bet you’ve got someone in your life who loves birds, and our Aviary Collection of bird-inspired artisan jewelry would be the sweetest gift for them! Find the Aviary Collection of bird jewelry online here or in store.

The Anatomy Collection: Artisan Handmade Jewelry Inspired by the Human Body and Medical Science

Stacey Bowers

Find the anatomical heart necklace with garnet blood drop, DNA strand double helix earrings, brain friendship necklace set, and uterus necklace in our newest collection of artisan, handmade jewelry inspired by human anatomy and medical science.

It’s easy to live life forgetting about the teeming world within our own skin. While we quietly read a book or watch television, our bodies are ceaselessly pulsating—a cyclical rhythm pounding loudly and fiercely if we press a stethoscope to our chests. Even our silent bones are alive with marrow. My Anatomy Collection is inspired by what’s beneath the surface—the thriving web of organs, bones and tissues that gently comprise us. This hand-sculpted collection of artisan anatomy jewelry brings the inside outside. See the entire collection of artisan, handmade anatomy jewelry here.

Wear your heart on the outside with this 3-dimensional anatomical heart necklace complete with faceted teardrop garnet. This anatomical heart pendant was carved completely by hand and measures approximately 1 inch from top to bottom. The stylish paperclip chain measures 18 inches. This heart necklace is available as a bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. You can add an extender to your heart necklace here if you like.

Your DNA is the carrier of genetic information, which makes this necklace especially meaningful as a symbol of family connections. The DNA charm was completely hand carved and measures approximately 1 inch long. The DNA strand double helix necklace measures approximately 16 inches and is available as a bronze DNA pendant on a 14k gold-filled paperclip chain or as a sterling silver DNA pendant on a sterling silver paperclip chain. You can add an extender to your DNA necklace here if you like and we’ll divide to either side of your necklace to make it even. Find our matching DNA Strand Earrings here.

Your DNA is the carrier of genetic information, which makes this necklace especially meaningful as a symbol of family connections. The DNA charm was completely hand carved and measures approximately 1 inch long. The DNA Strand Double Helix Earrings are available as bronze charms on 14k gold-filled ear wires or as sterling silver DNA charms on sterling silver ear wires. Find our matching DNA Strand Necklace here.

Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, or just a needle enthusiast, these syringe earrings are the perfect, clever design to go with any hairdo. The syringe earrings are styled to look like the syringe is sticking directly into your ear. Syringe earrings come in solid bronze or solid sterling silver and measure approximately 1.75 inches from the bottom to the curve at the top. I completely hand carved this design, including the little measurement details on the body of the syringe.

Boobs! This playful Breast Necklace was completely carved by hand. It’s nearly impossible to frown while wearing this unconventional necklace. The breast pendant measures approximately 1.25 inches across, and the entire necklace is about 17 inches total. This necklace is available as a bronze breast pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. You can add an extender to your necklace here if you like and we’ll divide it to either side of your necklace so it’s centered.

Bone jewelry is the only kind of bone I have to pick. The 3-dimensional bones of this bone bracelet were carved by hand and join with a matching toggle style clasp with a tiny bone of its own. Each bracelet measures approximately 8 inches in standard size but is available shorter or longer by one bone’s length (1.5 inches) if you message me for custom sizing. These bracelets are available in solid bronze with 14k gold-filled jump ring connectors or in solid sterling silver. Find our matching bone necklace here.

Bone jewelry is the only kind of bone I have to pick. The 3-dimensional bones of this bone necklace were carved by hand and join with a matching toggle style clasp with a tiny bone of its own. These bone necklaces are made with 3 solid bronze or sterling silver bones finished with 14k gold-filled or sterling silver paperclip chain and a matching toggle clasp. These bone necklace measure approximately 19 inches and can be made longer by extenders available here (we’ll divide them and affix them behind the toggle clasp) or shortened by request if you email us. Find our matching bone bracelet with bone toggle here.

Bone jewelry is the only kind of bone I have to pick. These bone hoop earrings were carved by hand then cast in solid bronze and sterling silver. The end of each hoop is a post shape and completed with a hard rubber ear nut. 3-dimensional bone hoop earrings measure approximately 1.75 inches from top to bottom. If you love the bone earrings, be sure to check out our matching bone necklace and bone bracelet.

Kiss the ring. This hand-carved ring features a mouth affixed with a lip ring on a hammered band. This Lip Pericing Mouth Ring is available in solid bronze or sterling silver, and we can size it slightly in house from a size 5.5 to a size 7.

This uterus pendant was an absolute delight to carve by hand and took me several days of work to finish the details in it. The Uterus Necklace is available as a bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled paperclip style chain or a sterling silver uterus pendant on a sterling silver paperclip style chain. The uterus attaches to the chain perfectly by the Fallopian tubes. The Uterus Necklace measures approximately 17 inches. If you’d like a longer chain, you can add an extender here and we’ll divide it on either side of the necklace to keep the pendant centered. Find our matching Uterus Earrings here.

Let these uterus earrings wander with you wherever you go. This uterus pendant was an absolute delight to carve by hand and took me several days of work to finish the details in it. The uterus measures approximately 1 1/3 inches across. Uterus earrings are available in solid sterling silver or solid bronze on 14k gold-filled ear wires. Find our matching Uterus Necklace here.

I’ve rereleased our original IUD pendant on a thicker chain in this collection as I felt it fit so well with the rest of my Anatomy Collection. I made this IUD pendant by molding an actual IUD and casting it in bronze. The bronze IUD pendant measures approximately 1 inch across and hangs from a 14k gold-filled chain. You may add an extender to lengthen your necklace here.

When the skull speaks… If you’re a fidgeter, you’ll love playing with this skull pendant that has a mobile jaw attached. The skull pendant including the lower jaw measures approximately 1.25 inches from top to bottom. This skull necklace is available as a solid bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. The entire skull necklace measures approximately 17 inches long and can be made longer by adding an extender here (we’ll divide it to either side of the necklace to keep the skull centered). If you like this skull necklace, be sure to check out our Catacomb Cuff Bracelet.

Our Catacomb Cuff Bracelet was inspired by the Parisian catacombs, underground tunnels meticulously and artfully stacked with human bones. I’ve stacked bronze bones and skulls to mimic the hauntingly beautiful structures of the ancient underground tombs. This catacomb cuff is a substantial piece of solid bronze that is slightly sizable; you can go ahead and give it a very strong tug at each end to widen it or a very firm push at each end to make it smaller. As with all cuffs, we recommend getting it to the size you prefer then wriggling it on and off. The inside measurements of the cuff from end to end are approximately 6 inches not including the opening. If you like the catacomb bracelet, be sure to check out our skull necklace with mobile jaw.

Who is the left brain and who is the right brain? It’s fun to decide who is who with these matching brain friendship necklaces. Or if you’d rather just have a half brain for yourself, you can buy one necklace for you. The brain pendants were completely carved by hand, including interior details on the dissection. It’s not anatomically correct, but it is still pretty dang detailed. The charms are solid bronze, and the chains are 14k gold-filled and 18 inches long. You may add an extender here if you like a longer necklace. The set includes two opposite halves of a brain that match up when placed together.

Spooky Season Jewelry: 30 Designs to Send Shivers Up Your Spine

Stacey Bowers

At Bang-Up Betty, spooky season is a year-round affair. With dozens and dozens of designs that’ll send a shiver up your spine and tons of ghoulish gifts to match at our storefront, you’ll find a scary amount of good stuff for the fall months and beyond. Here are 30 spooky jewelry designs to get you pumped up for the season, even it’s 12 months out of the year for you too and not just Halloween. Honestly, I could have kept writing this blog forever, but I capped it at 30 pieces. Check out our website and our gift store (located upstairs at 429 Main Street in North Little Rock, Arkansas) for tons more spooky creations.

There are perhaps no more universal and ancient night creatures than the spirits of the dead. They can mean harm or serve to protect the living, but they’re rarely seen by the human eye either way — even rarer in the daylight. These little ghost earrings in our Creatures of Night Collection come in two styles: oval-shaped hoops if you like a longer look, and round hooks if you like a shorter look. Ghost charms come in sterling silver and solid bronze. Ear wires are 14k gold-filled and sterling silver, so they’re hypoallergenic. Find them here.

Show your love of dinosaurs with this modern fossil. This Tyrannosaurs Rex skull necklace is available in gold with a solid bronze cast T Rex skull pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain and in sterling silver with a cast sterling silver T Rex skull pendant on a sterling silver chain. Necklaces are approximately 18 inches long. Find them here.

If the mystifying oracle doesn't put a spell on you, the black glitter in these planchette lapel pins will. Hard enamel lapel pins measure 1.25 inches tall, are gold-trimmed and have a little hole that lets a peek of whatever you're wearing show through. Pins come with a hard rubber back on a cute, giftable card.  Get one for everyone in your coven. Find them here.

These coffin stud earrings are simply to die for. These coffin earrings make the perfect subtle and cute statement and go with everything. Casket post earrings are available in solid bronze or solid sterling silver and come on a cute card back that makes them easy to gift. If you love these coffin stud earrings, you’ll love our matching “dead inside” coffin necklace! Find the Coffin Stud Earrings here.

In Norse mythology, when Loki threw Jörmungandr, also known as the Midgard Serpent, into the sea, it grew so large it encircled the world and grasped its own tail. When it releases its tail one day, the great reckoning Ragnarök will begin, bringing devastation and floods, but the world will rise again from the waters, cleansed and reborn. The Midgard Serpent snake cuff from our Creatures of Night Collection is a powerful yet versatile statement piece. The cuff bracelets are available in solid bronze or sterling silver and are adjustable. As with any cuff, we recommend getting it to the size you desire then wriggling it on and off instead of bending it back and forth each time you take it on and off. Each cuff comes with a decorative card back telling the story of the Midgard Serpent. Find the serpent cuff here.

I’ll smile when I’m dead… This cute but fierce enamel lapel pin measures 1 inch across and is set with black enamel on gold-tone metal, complete with a hard rubber clutch. The pin is soft enamel, which just means that you can feel every gory detail, so it’s pretty satisfying to touch. Tell the boneheads to back off. Find it here.

Ammit: Of Egyptian mythology, this creature is said to have the head of a crocodile, the forelegs and mane of a lion and the hind of a hippopotamus. When Osiris, King of the Underworld, judges a soul unworthy, Ammit devours its heart, casting the poor soul into limbo. The Ammit Necklace from our Creatures of Night Collection features a handmade Ammit pendant on an 18-inch chain. Bronze necklaces are made with solid bronze pendants on 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chains, and silver necklaces are made with sterling silver pendants on twisted sterling silver chains. Each necklace comes on a decorative card back telling the story of Ammit. Find it here.

Because you've got personality to die for, this Suck It Vampire Necklace with Fangs charm is for you. Brass oval measures about one inch long and is hand stamped with the words SUCK IT and complemented by a silver-plated set of vampire fangs. Chain is gold-filled and measures 18 inches long. Stay thirsty. Find it here.

Are you a little batty? Then you’ll adore these little bat stud earrings. These precious little bats make the perfect subtle and cute statement and go with everything. Bat post earrings are available in solid bronze or solid sterling silver and come on a cute card back that makes them easy to gift. If you love these bat stud earrings, you’ll love our matching tiny bat necklace! Find the bat stud earrings here.

This perfect little bat pin is great for those who are a little batty about bats or halloween. The pin measures 1.5 inches across from wingtip to wingtip, is made of soft enamel so you can feel every detail, and has two posts to keep it from spinning around. It’s affixed with two hard rubber backs and comes on a cute card back, so it’s easy to gift. Find it here.

There are perhaps no more universal and ancient night creatures than the spirits of the dead. They can mean harm or serve to protect the living, but they’re rarely seen by the human eye either way — even rarer in the daylight. This little ghost necklace from our Creatures of Night Collection can be worn two ways: as a Y-style necklace by attaching the clasp part-way up the chain or as a standard necklace with the clasp in the front by attaching the clasp to the end link where the ghost charm is. Ghost necklaces are available in bronze on a 20-inch 14k gold-filled chain or in silver with a sterling silver charm and 20-inch sterling silver chain. Each necklace comes on a decorative card back. Find it here.

This handmade bronze spider charm is hand-cast and kiln-fired to perfection in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. It’s the perfect combination of elegant and spooky and can be dressed up or down with ease. Each earring is accented with a round, hand-wrapped bead of rainbow moonstone, mimicking the spiders that weave their webs under the light of the moon. The spiders bodies are set with sparkly cubic zirconia stones that are cast into the bronze charm, which have a golden glow. Each earring measures approximately 1.5 inches long and is made with a gold-filled ear wire. Each pair comes on a cute card back that makes them easy to gift. If you love these earrings, you’ll also love our matching handmade Dainty Spider Necklace. Find the spider earrings here.

We’re obsessed with bats, and this little bat necklace is one of my favorites to make! It’s available in bronze and silver here. This necklace is great for layering. I wear it all the time with other necklaces.

Handmade bronze coffin charms measure approximately 1 inch to 1 1/4 inches across and hang from an approximately 17-inch gold-filled chain that ends in a spring clasp. Charms come either solid bronze with no text or bronze with the phrase “DEAD INSIDE” hand-stamped into the surface. This necklace is also available in silver. Handmade silver coffin necklace is made with a sterling silver chain and a sterling silver coffin charm. Find it here.

Elvira would kill for these brass bat earrings... Or maybe Khaleesi would. It’s all in how you see them. Brass bat / dragon wing measures approximately 2.5 inches long and 1.5 inches wide. Hooks are 14k gold-filled. The wings are hollow, which means they are pretty lightweight, despite their appearance. Find them here.

Kelpie: From the lochs of Scotland, this aquatic horse appears friendly at first, luring humans to ride upon its back, then diving with its victims into the lakes and rivers to drown and devour them. Our handmade Kelpie Necklace is available in bronze with a solid bronze kelpie pendant on a 20-inch 14k gold-filled chain or in sterling silver on a 20-inch sterling silver chain. Chains can be worn shorter if desired, as clasp attached to any link on the chain, making these necklaces great for layering. Each necklace comes on a decorative card back featuring the story of the Kelpie. Find it here.

Vampire: Born in Romania, the original vampires were shape-shifting, night-walking, blood-sucking ghouls who could only be killed with a stake through the heart to pin them into their grave, followed by beheading and burning to ensure they’d never rise again to drink from the living. The Vampire Necklace from our Creatures of Night Collection features a pair of fangs accented with a faceted teardrop garnet as a drop of blood. Bronze necklaces are made with solid bronze fangs charm and 14k gold-filled chain; silver necklaces are made with sterling silver fangs and sterling silver chain. Chain measures approximately 17.5 inches. Find it here.

This spooky planchette charm is solid bronze, measures approximately 1 inch tall, and comes in three ways: 1.) blank 2.) blank on one side with “GOODBYE” and cube zirconia on one side or 3.) cubic zirconia with “GOODBYE” on one side and cubic zirconia with “HELLO” on the other side. Find the planchette necklace here.

Because you feel the spirit(s)…

This spooky hand-stamped Spiritual Ghost Necklace is stamped by hand and includes a little vintage brass ghost charm. Solid brass circle measures a little more than 1/2 inch and is stamped with the word SPIRITUAL. Chain is gold-filled, measures 18 inches long, is made in the USA and ends in a spring clasp. It’s frighteningly cute! This is the perfect handmade necklace for the “spiritual, but not religious.” Find it here.

Sometimes it takes a whole army of eyes to keep the evil eye off you. This Evil Eye Strand Necklace features a row of glass eye beads on a stylish paperclip chain. The necklace is approximately 16 inches long, worn higher on the chest, but you can always add an extender to your order here. Chains are 14k gold filled and sterling silver, so they’re hypoallergenic. Find it here.

Ravens are members of the most intelligent group of birds: the corvids. They speak their own language of calls and cries and can be taught human words. Perhaps this is why they’re historically considered to be oracles, symbols of wisdom, omniscient, predictors of coming danger, and able to traverse the realms of both the living and dead. Our Raven Necklace features a raven carved into a circular pendant with an all-seeing eye. Above the pendant is a faceted bead of black onyx. The Raven Necklace is available as a bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain or as a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain. Chains and pendants are free of nickel. If you’d like your necklace longer, you may add an extender here. Each necklace comes on a decorative card back telling the story of the Raven. Find it here.

Caravaggio’s (Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio) often dark and violent subject matter, paired with his signature chiaroscuro (or use of heavy contrast using light and dark) echoed the dramatic, tumultuous life he lived, peppered with murder, assassination attempts, arrests and exile. His famous Medusa, painted in 1596-97, depicts the moment when the legendary snake-haired gorgon of ancient Greek myth was beheaded by Perseus, and the artist experiments with casting his own face as Medusa’s. My Caravaggio-inspired Medusa head necklace features a cast bronze or sterling silver pendant of Medusa’s head with wild, curling snakes for hair. The pendant hangs from an 18-inch 14k gold-filled or sterling silver chain. The necklace pairs perfectly with my Medusa Serpent Earrings from my Siren Collection inspired by Greek Mythology, and you can learn more about Medusa and those earrings here. Find the Medusa Necklace here.

One of the most beautiful stories of Greek Mythology is that of Orpheus and Eurydice, a tale of true love and devotion willing to face fear and death. The greatest mortal musician, Orpheus, fell  deeply in love with the maiden Eurydice and married her. Soon after the wedding, Eurydice and her bridesmaids were walking in a field and she was bitten by a viper. So much for “happily ever after.”

Beyond distraught in his mourning, Orpheus took his lyre to the underworld, braving the terrible three-headed dog Cerberus and lulling it and the many terrifying characters in Hades with his beautiful music. He pleaded for the life of his bride with his song, and so moved the goddess Persephone and even Hades himself to give him back his new wife, but with one condition: Orpheus couldn’t look at Eurydice until they both emerged from the underworld. 

Grabbing Eurydice’s hand, Orpheus led her joyously back to the realm of the living, but in his excitement as he exited the underworld, he glanced back at her, only to have looked just too soon, seeing her disappear into the mouth of the cave, stolen back to Hades for Orpheus’s eagerness. He rushed to follow her, but was not allowed to enter the underworld a second time. Doomed to life without his true love, he wandered the earth mournfully and alone until a band of Maenads discovered him and tore him limb from limb. We can only hope he was delivered from the living world into the arms of his lover at last. 

Depicted in solid bronze on the medallion of the Orpheus and Eurydice necklace is a pair of lovers, one holding a lyre, the other leaning over a column to swoon at the musician. In this piece of handmade jewelry, I imagine the couple in the happy hours of their union, before the viper struck, and how I hope their eternity looked in the underworld together.  Find the Orpheus and Eurydice necklace here.

Hades, god of the underworld (also called Hades), is the king of the dead and god of wealth and precious metals (remember the custom of needing a coin under your tongue or over your eyes to pay the ferryman Charon to cross the River Styx?). Besides his abduction of Persephone (which was downright terrible, he is not viewed as an evil god despite his deathly position. He is seen as a just god. 

The place Hades isn’t like the Christian Hell of fire and brimstone. According to legend, Hades is divided into realms: Tartarus, where souls are punished; The Fields of Mourning, where lovers wander and never forget their lost loves; The Asphodel Meadows, which sounds like a pretty ok place to be if you have to be dead; and The Elysian Fields, where exceptional people are treated to a really pleasant eternity. 

The Hades Necklace is a beautiful memento mori. It is elegant and edgy. It evokes a classical feeling reminiscent of the funeral mask of Agamemnon, but it’s also modern. The hand-cast bronze skull measures about 3/4 inch across and is accented with 4 cultured seed pearls as the skull’s teeth. The skull charm is completely handmade and finished with a 14K gold-filled chain that measures approximately 16 inches but can be ordered at 18 inches.  This necklace is also available in sterling silver. Find the Hades Necklace here.

Get caught in this dainty spider’s web…

This handmade bronze spider charm comes in two ways: with or without a shiny cubic zirconia on its back. Spiders are suspended from 18-inch, gold-filled chains that end in spring clasps.

Spider charms may vary in size or finish from spider to spider, as is the nature of handmade items. They’re unique! Each handmade spider charm is hand-cast in bronze and kiln-fired in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. This handmade spider necklace is also available in silver. Each silver spider pendant is hand-cast from fine silver and kiln fired; chains are sterling silver. Find it here.

Jorōgumo: This Japanese creature has the upper half of a beautiful woman and the lower body of a spider. She seduces men, luring them into isolated spaces then spinning her victims into bundles in her web and drinking their blood. Our Jorōgumo necklace features a handmade pendant in bronze or silver that pays homage to the spider lady of Japan. Bronze pendants hang from 20-inch 14k gold-filled chains. Sterling silver pendants hang from 20-inch sterling silver chains. Chains can be worn at shorter lengths if desired, as clasps can fasten to any link of the chain; it makes this necklace great for layering. Find it here.

The U.F.O. earrings feature flying saucers beaming green light in the form of eerily beautiful peridot beads. The gold version of these alien earrings is made with a bronze U.F.O. and 14k gold-filled ear wire. The silver version is sterling silver with sterling silver ear wires. These earrings are made to pair with our U.F.O. Necklace.

In the universe, it’s estimated that there are 100 billion galaxies. The Milky Way galaxy alone has more than 3,200 stars like our sun that have planets orbiting them. Planets like Jupiter and Saturn have dozens of moons, some with atmospheres and water ice. When you consider that, it’s hard to imagine there NOT being life outside of Earth. My U.F.O. necklace and earrings are an homage to the retro imagery of alien flying saucer spacecrafts and the idea that it’s not crazy at all to believe in life out there. Find them here.

Medusa, with her hair of snakes, is one of the most ubiquitous images of Greek mythology, but the legends surrounding her are mysterious and often untold. She was a Gorgon, and according to the poet Ovid, Medusa was extremely lovely. Here’s where it gets dark… Poseidon raped Medusa in a temple of Athena’s, and Athena was so outraged by it that she cursed Medusa, turning her into a snake-haired beast who could turn mortals to stone if they looked at her. The hero Perseus went all Tom Cruise in Legend on her and used a reflective shield to deflect her deadly stare so that he could cut off her head, which he gave to Athena to wear on her shield. Poor Medusa. 

The stories about Medusa often overlook how she was respected as a symbol of protection. If the story of Medusa inspires you to smash the patriarchy as much as it does me, you’ll enjoy this Vice article by Christobel Hastings.

The Medusa Earrings feature a pair of handmade bronze snakes that mirror each other. They’re fierce symbols of warning or protection, whichever you choose. The hand-cast bronze snakes measure approximately 1 1/2 inches from tail to head. The earring wires are 14K gold-filled, so they’re hypoallergenic.  These earrings are also available in sterling silver. Find them here.

Apollo, or Phoebus Apollo, is most commonly known as the sun god or god of light. He was also a talented musician, playing a golden lyre; the archer god, shooting a silver bow; the first to teach humans the art of healing; and the god of truth—his light illuminating falsehoods. 

Apollo slew the formidable Python, a serpent that lived in the caves of Parnassus, after a grueling battle during which the snake finally fell victim to the Light God’s precise arrows. I’ve chosen this story to represent Apollo, using a glimmering, coiled serpent with a glowing red eye.

Snakes are incredibly meaningful, often seen biting their tails to symbolize eternity. This serpent is coiled in a shield-like medallion, affixed with a marquise-cut red cubic zirconia that is set by hand and cast directly into the bronze. This handmade bronze charm is finished with a 18-inch 14K gold-filled chain that ends in a spring clasp. Find it here.

Head of a Skeleton with a Burning Cigarette, according to the Van Gogh Museum, was an early work: “This skeleton with a lit cigarette in its mouth is a juvenile joke. Van Gogh painted it in early 1886, while studying at the art academy in Antwerp. The painting shows that he had a good command of anatomy. Drawing skeletons was a standard exercise at the academy, but painting them was not part of the curriculum. He must have made this painting at some other time, between or after his lessons.” 

My Van Gogh-inspired Smoking Skull Necklace is a substantial piece of sculpted cast bronze that hangs from a 14k gold-filled chain that measures 18 inches in total length but can be fastened up the chain wherever you like so that the length is customizable if you’d prefer it to sit higher on your chest. Find it here.

2023 Arkansas Made Mother's Day Gift Guide: 21 Gifts by Arkansas Artists

Stacey Bowers

On the hunt for an original Mother’s Day gift? Make it extra special this year with something colorful, delightful and handmade locally by an Arkansas artisan. These handmade creations by some of our favorite Arkansas artists and makers are sure to bring a smile to the moms in your life. Each of these Arkansas-made gifts can be found in-store at Bang-Up Betty’s handmade jewelry and gift store, located at 429 Main Street in Argenta.

Spring never ends when you're wearing this cast bronze or sterling silver handmade daffodil necklace or earrings. These necklaces and earrings were designed using the texture of actual petals during the casting process. Atop each flower is a bead of yellow jade to echo the sunshine color of living daffodils. Find the Daffodil Necklace and matching earrings by Bang-Up Betty online here or at our jewelry and gift shop at 429 Main Street in Argenta.

The queen bee deserves a beautiful handmade, framed bee by Little Rock artist Studio Dust Co. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

If mom loves to knit or crochet, she’ll adore this handmade yarn bowl or ceramic thimble vase by Fayetteville, Arkansas artist Pyrogenic Arts.

This gorgeous watercolor print of the Old Mill in North Little Rock is a little piece of spring you can keep on your wall year round. Find these prints and many more Arkansas scenes by Bentonville artist Joseph Buchanan in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Sometimes gorgeously simple isn’t as simple as it seems. These monogram initial necklaces are each made from hand-cast bronze and fired in a kiln. Each piece is uniquely handmade. The chain is an elegant paper-clip style chain that’s 14k gold-filled, so it’s hypoallergenic. Find these Monogram Initial Hexagon Paperclip Chain necklaces online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Meow! These incredible wooden cats by North Little Rock artist Paul Milholland have moveable heads so you can position the cat looking at different angles. Find these sculptures in store at Bang-Up Betty.

We love flowers that never die! these gorgeous ceramic floral ring dishes by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Moms and birds go together like birds of a feather. If you’re mom is into birdwatching, be sure to check out our new collection of bird jewelry called the Aviary Collection by Bang-Up Betty. Find it online here or at our store in North Little Rock.

Let mom know how loved she is by so many with this handmade print by North Little Rock artist Chelsea Allen. Prints available in many styles and colors in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Mom’s morning coffee routine needs an upgrade. These gorgeous handmade mugs by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell come in loads of different styles and are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Birthstones are beautiful and meaningful, and if you order one of Bang-Up Betty’s birthstone cluster or strand necklaces in advance we can customize the stones you’d like, so you can mix and match your family’s birthstones. Birthstone necklaces by month are available in store or online here.

Tell mom how much she means to you with a handmade card. These colorful and meaningful greeting cards by Maumelle artist Sherry J. Williamson are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Have I mentioned how much we love birds? These wire-wrapped bird nest necklaces are available in silver and gold and also with your choice of white or blue pearl eggs. Bird nest necklaces are available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online here.

Elevate the art situation in mom’s house with a stylish triptych of prints by Little Rock artist Banimilk. Find these prints and much more of her work in store at Bang-Up Betty.

What do you get the mom who has everything, including anxiety and too much on her to-do list? A ceramic worry wart by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell. You tell it your worries so you can set them free. Find a huge selection of Carla’s worry warts in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Let mom know she is a rainbow with one of these gorgeous handmade macrame wall hangings by Little Rock artist Amy Darragh of Creative Cords. These rainbow macrame hangings are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Does mom have a generous spirit? Then she’d probably love one of these “shine” necklaces by Bang-Up Betty that benefits Methodist Family Health in Little Rock. Find them in store or online here.

Show mom you love her with a little handmade wooden ring dish created by North Little Rock artist Paul Milholland. Find these gorgeous hearts in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Make mom’s kitchen so much cuter with a one-of-a-kind handmade ceramic spoon rest by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell. Find a huge selection of Carla’s spoon rests at Bang-Up Betty.

If mom is into horoscopes, she’ll love one of these gorgeous, colorful hand-printed works of art by Little Rock artist Bri Peterson. We’ve got the entire collection of zodiac prints in store at Bang-Up Betty.

These beautiful handmade flower vases by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell are the perfect way for mom to bring what she’s growing in her garden indoors to enjoy. Find a wide selection of Carla’s vases in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty is snarky, meaningful, well-made jewelry made in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Shop our handmade artisan jewelry alongside clever gifts and local art and crafts at our Argenta storefront located at 429 Main Street in North Little Rock above Ristorante Capeo.

The Aviary Collection: Handmade Artisan Jewelry Inspired by Birds

Stacey Bowers

Birds have a secret language. Many of them, like parrots and cockatoos, famously can be taught human words, and highly intelligent birds, like crows and ravens, have their own language of calls and cries within their species. But birds have a special language to humans— a tongue of significance, symbolism and omen. In my Aviary Collection of jewelry inspired by our feathered friends, I’ve pulled from the legends and histories of some of my favorite birds to create cast bronze and sterling silver tributes to them and the role they’ve played in human lives and storytelling. Find our bird-inspired necklaces and earrings at our North Little Rock, Arkansas, jewelry and gift store or online through the links below.

The tiny Hummingbird feeds almost exclusively on nectar, flitting from bloom to bloom on its wings that beat around 50 times per second (for North American species), making it a fantastic pollinator. In Mexican folklore, the hummingbird is revered for its connection to love and romance. Our Hummingbird Earrings feature tiny, dainty hummingbirds feeding from blossoms. Above each flower is a faceted, iridescent hematite bead. Find our hummingbird earrings here.

The tiny Hummingbird feeds almost exclusively on nectar, flitting from bloom to bloom on its wings that beat around 50 times per second (for North American species), making it a fantastic pollinator. In Mexican folklore, the hummingbird is revered for its connection to love and romance. Our Hummingbird Necklace features a hummingbird feeding from a sunflower. Above the pendant is a line of eight faceted, iridescent hematite beads. Find our hummingbird necklace here.

Unlike many flighted birds with angular feathers, Ostrich feathers are balanced on each side, symbolizing equality, truth and justice. In ancient Egypt, the goddess Ma’at weighed the hearts of the dead against an ostrich feather, and if a heart was as light as the feather, that meant the owner led a virtuous life and could enter paradise. Our Ostrich Feather Earrings are simple yet elegant, featuring an ostrich feather with a quill that extends into the ear wire of the earrings. These feather earrings are available in solid cast bronze or sterling silver. Find our ostrich feather earrings here.

Unlike many flighted birds with angular feathers, Ostrich feathers are balanced on each side, symbolizing equality, truth and justice. In ancient Egypt, the goddess Ma’at weighed the hearts of the dead against an ostrich feather, and if a heart was as light as the feather, that meant the owner led a virtuous life and could enter paradise. Our Ostrich Feather Necklace features a simple yet gorgeous feather on an 18-inch paperclip style chain elegant enough for one of the world’s most elegant feathers. This necklace is available as a cast bronze ostrich feather charm on a 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver charm on a sterling silver chain. Both styles are free of nickel and come on a decorative card back displaying the significance of the ostrich feather. Find our ostrich feather necklace here.

The mythical Phoenix is reborn again and again, combusting and rising from its own ashes. Across cultures, it’s a symbol of strength and perseverance. It’s also a symbol of gentleness, as according to some legends it lives on smoke and dew, never harming another living thing. Our Phoenix necklace features a fierce Phoenix rising from flames, wings fearlessly spread. This necklace is available in bronze with a cast bronze phoenix pendant on a 20-inch 14k gold-filled chain or in silver with a sterling silver phoenix pendant and 20-inch sterling silver chain. The clasp can be fastened to any link in the chain, so you can wear the necklace shorter if you prefer. Find our phoenix necklace here.

Ravens are members of the most intelligent group of birds: the corvids. They speak their own language of calls and cries and can be taught human words. Perhaps this is why they’re historically considered to be oracles, symbols of wisdom, omniscient, predictors of coming danger, and able to traverse the realms of both the living and dead. Our Raven Necklace features a raven carved into a circular pendant with an all-seeing eye. Above the pendant is a faceted bead of black onyx. The Raven Necklace is available as a bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain or as a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain. Find our raven necklace here.

Doves are symbols of love and peace, often depicted carrying olive branches or tenderly nuzzling each other. They’re expert messengers, domesticated more than 5,000 years ago for correspondence and companionship. Across cultures, doves have symbolized femininity, motherhood and the moon. They’re sacred in Islam and Christianity; legend says that Muhammad trained doves, and the devil in Christianity can shapeshift into many forms except the dove. Our Dove Hoop Earrings feature a pair of doves, one with wings spread and the other at rest. Each earring measures approximately 1.5 inches across. Dove Earrings are available in solid cast bronze or solid sterling silver. Both styles are free of nickel. Each pair of dove earrings comes on a decorate card back with the story of doves. Find our dove hoop earrings here.

Geese may be the oldest birds domesticated by humans nearly 7,000 years ago. Their close relationship with people has made them sacred in many cultures. The “goose laying the golden egg” dates to ancient Egypt, with the golden egg representing the sun. Ancient Celts considered geese so sacred they weren’t to be eaten. In India, Brahma is shown riding a goose. Geese are migratory, forming a strong V shape together in flight, and geese mate for life. Geese are protectors, fiercely guarding their young and the humans they’re close to. Our Goose Necklace features a goose in flight with fellow geese in V-formation in the background of the round pendant. The Goose Necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver chain. Find our goose necklace here.

The Peacock is the national bird of India, where it is exalted for its habit of eating snakes—even venomous ones. Its taste for poisonous serpents led to the belief that peacocks can neutralize toxins, making the bird a symbol of purity as well. The Peacock means good luck in many cultures, and the “eye” of its iridescent tail feathers is symbolic of the evil eye in some. Our Peacock Necklace features a peacock set against the imprint of the eye of a peacock feather and encircled by a subtle snake biting its tail. The Peacock Necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. Chains measure approximately 19.5 inches and may be fastened at any link on the chain in case you’d prefer to wear the necklace shorter. Find our peacock necklace here.

The Flamingo, perched precariously on one leg in the shallow water, reminds us to find balance in our own lives. Its whimsical pink coloring makes it stand out among other birds, reminding us to be ourselves, however different we may appear. And its curved neck shapes one half of a heart, forming a whole when it pairs with a mate, which it attracts with its flamboyant dance moves. Our Flamingo Necklace features a pair of flamingos touching beaks to form a heart shape and is topped with two beads of pink rhodochrosite to add a pop of flamingo pink. This necklace is available as a solid bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. Necklaces measure approximately 18 inches and can be fastened on any link of the chain, so they may be worn slightly shorter if you prefer. Find our flamingo necklace here.

The Wren is believed to be the bird of witches, and a wren feather can protect you against magical spells. On the Isle of Man in the United Kingdom, wren feathers are thought to protect sailors from shipwrecks because sorcerous wrens can transform into Sirens. On the other side of the Atlantic, Pawnee Native Americans considered the wren a joyous, happy bird because it sings so loudly at sunrise. Our Wren Necklace features a little wren perched on the crescent moon, rich with witchy vibes. This necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain or a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain. Find our wren necklace here.

Arkansas Made Love: 27 Locally Made Valentine Gifts by Arkansas Makers and Artists

Stacey Bowers

Fall in love with locally made! Here are 27 gifts made by Arkansas makers and artists that are sure to make your heart flutter.

Fall in love with locally made! Here are 27 gifts made by Arkansas makers and artists that are sure to make your heart flutter. Heat things up with Arkansas made hot sauce and glittery candles, watch love grow with locally made macrame planters and ceramic vases, adorn your sweetheart in symbolic Arkansas made jewelry, and share your heart in cards by Arkansas artists. Plus, shopping small and local always adds a touch of extra special to any gift. All of these Arkansas gifts can be found at Bang-Up Betty in downtown North Little Rock, located at 429 Main Street in Argenta, where you’ll find tons of clever gifts, local arts and crafts, hundreds of pieces of artisan jewelry, and so much more for every occasion.

What’s better than hearts? Butts shaped like hearts. North Little Rock artist Chelsea Allen makes these clever felted butts, smiles, eyes and more. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Heat things up with Arkansas made hot sauce! This salsa macha by local food truck Lili’s is absolutely delicious. Find it in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Give the floral gift that keeps on giving with a locally made vase that’ll stay fresh all through flower season. Find these ceramic vases by Carla Churchwell and many more in store at Bang-Up Betty.

This dragonfly necklace will make your love’s heart flutter. Find this dragonfly necklace made by Bang-Up Betty in store at Bang-Up Betty in Argenta or online here.

Don’t forget the Valentine card! Maumelle-based artist Sherry J. Williamson creates these heartfelt greeting cards you can pour your sentiments into. Find these and many more in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Hearts, hearts, hearts! These adorable little handmade ceramic hearts by Hot Springs artist Carla Churchwell come in lots of sizes and are perfect for holding rings and other little trinkets. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Sweeten things up with locally made toffee by North Little Rock artisans Deal Family Creations. We’re anxiously awaiting their return to the Argenta Farmers Market, but until then you can find their toffee at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty’s Speak Up Collection is jewelry featuring quotes by inspirational women like Michelle Obama, Maya Angelou, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and others, including this “change takes courage” Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez quote anatomical heart necklace. Find the collection online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

What’s better than a really good locally made candle? A really good locally made candle with glitter in it! Find these candles by North Little Rock maker Dogtown Scents in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Cheer up your home with a beautiful print by an Arkansas artist. Bang-Up Betty carries prints by several local artists, including these sweet retro mushrooms and “hello sunshine” prints by Sherwood-based Lee Lee Arts + Design.

These lapel pins bring a bit of flair to any outfit. Bang-Up Betty has dozens of designs, including these “cats are my love language,” “dogs are my love language” and “bibliophile” pins available online here or in our Argenta storefront.

Spring and planting season is almost here! Get the green thumb in your life a locally made macrame plant hanger by our favorite macrame genius Creative Cords Macrame. Find bright, beautiful macrame plant hangers in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Did you know that snakes are love symbols? Even Queen Victoria had a snake ring Prince Albert gave her to symbolize their forever love. This modern cuff in Bang-Up Betty’s Creatures of Night Collection is available in bronze and sterling silver in store or online.

Speaking of critters, these handmade mystical cat mugs and vases by Hot Springs pottery artist Carla Churchwell are absolutely perfect and they’re available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Clean up with locally made soap in Arkansas, angry uterus, pride and trans flag styles. These delightfully scented soaps are made in Maumelle by Summit Valley Soaps and are available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online here.

Speaking of bath products, these Arkansas made bath soaks by Northwest Arkansas maker Bathing Native are clever and delightful. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

While your love is enjoying that locally made bath soak, they might love a good book to read. Bang-Up Betty caries several books by local authors, including “Queers on What We Wear” by Megan Volpert. Find it in store at Bang-Up Betty.

How about a creative experience? Get your sweetheart a ticket to a makers night at Bang-Up Betty, like a mushroom jewelry workshop or a mocktails and drink markers class. Browse workshops here.

Among the many prints by local artists at Bang-Up Betty, you’ll find watercolor works by Northwest Arkansas painter Joseph Buchanan, like this one of Victorian Argenta landmark The Baker House, the absolutely incredible boutique bed and breakfast next door to our gift shop. What would be really cute? Getting your love a romantic stay at The Baker House and telling them with this print that they can keep forever to remind them of the experience. Print available at Bang-Up Betty.

Show your love is forever with a handmade infinity symbol necklace by Bang-Up Betty. Each pendant is completely handmade and kiln-fired in our North Little Rock jewelry studio and available online here or in our storefront.

Get your sweetheart a portrait session (how about a boudoir session??) with photographer Katie Childs. Katie’s creativity is endless, and she makes everyone feel and look their brightest. She’ll also be doing mini portrait sessions at our Argenta Art Walk event February 17. Contact Katie Childs here.

These adorably creepy ceramic incense burners by Russellville artist Baby Creep are painted with Valentine candy hearts to make them extra cute. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Get your sweetheart a little something sweet from Daisy Pastry Shoppe, a 70s-themed mother-daughter baking duo based in North Little Rock. They’ll be our February Third Friday Argenta Art Walk artist at Bang-Up Betty. Order online from them here or catch them at our shop from 5-8pm February 17. Photo by Matthew Lamar. Find more info on this month’s Argenta Art Walk here.

A little something for you, a little something for your person…. This hand-cast bronze necklace set features two heart halves that fit together and each say “my person.” Get them online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

A little birdie told me you’re pretty good at picking out Valentine’s Day gifts… like these handmade wooden bird magnets and sculptures by North Little Rock artist Milwerk Modern. Find them in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Looking for just a little something to tell your hot slice what a hot slice they are? These Hot Slice Pizza Stickers by Bang-Up Betty are the perfect little bite to hide inside a Valentine card. Get them online here or in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Say what you wanna say with a custom keychain for your loved one. Choose from dozens of funny already made keychains in store at Bang-Up Betty, or order a custom keychain online here.

25 Awesome Stocking Stuffer Ideas That Are (Mostly) Under $10

Stacey Bowers

Want stockings that wow without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered! Here are 25 awesome stocking stuffer ideas for kids and grown-ups that are mostly less than $10 and are all under $20. You can find them all at Bang-Up Betty, located at 429 Main Street in the historic Argenta Arts District of downtown North Little Rock, or online at bangupbetty.com.

These nostalgic ceramic bird water whistles are fun for all ages. Just add a little water, blow, and enjoy the fun bird song that ensues.

For the bookworm in your life, these wooden author bookmarks are the perfect placeholders. Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from dozens of authors and artists.

These seed-bearing lollipops are as creative as they are tasty. Plant the seed-paper sticks after you enjoy the lollipop, and wait for your new plant friend to spring up. Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from dozens of flavor and seed combos.

As far as we’re concerned, it’s not a stocking without lip balm in it. These luxurious lip balms are our favorite. Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from several different scents.

These dinosaur hand puppets are a huge hit with the kids that visit our gift shop. Be sure to get one for each kid on your shopping list so they can have dinosaur play battles.

Meow! These cute cat notepads are perfect to keep around the house for shopping lists and quick reminders. Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from several different styles.

Need a cute cat pencil to match your cat notepad? These cat-in-the-box pencil and eraser combos have adorable cat erasers on top and come in a variety of styles.

More of a dog person? Then you’ll love these glass dog coasters that you can mix and match. Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from several different breeds of dog.

We know these donuts look good enough to eat, but they’re actually bath bombs! Visit Bang-Up Betty to choose from several different tasty scents, including peach, pineapple whip, unicorn, margarita, mai tai and more.

More gift ideas for the book lovers in your life! This women authors pencil set is just one of many book-related pencil sets we carry at Bang-Up Betty.

These fun string doll keychains are great for kids and grown-ups. We have adorable sloths, spooky plague doctors, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Bernie Sanders, Rosa Parks, Medusa and many more at Bang-Up Betty.

These fun build-a-snowman kits let you build a little snowman, decorate it, watch it “melt",” then start all over again.

Lapel pins make perfect statement stocking stuffers, and Bang-Up Betty has dozens of styles, like these “I Believe in Science” and “Smash the Patriarchy” lapel pins.

Love the lapel pins but don’t wear lapel pins? We’ve got almost all of our lapel pin styles as weather-resistant vinyl stickers too. They’re perfect for cars, laptops, water bottles and more.

Got a hot sauce fanatic on your shopping list? We’re obsessed with these fat cat hot sauces and carry several different delicious varieties. Head to Bang-Up Betty to check them all out.

These 30-day challenges are a great gift looking forward to the new year. You can choose from challenges that help you be creative, slow down, find gratitude or eat vegan.

Who doesn’t need a jumbo rainbow eraser on their desk to brighten their office space? No one. That’s who. These big erasers are a delight for kids and grown-ups.

Keep your hair out of your eyes in style with these absolutely perfect hair clips. We’ve got aliens, cowboy boots, dinosaurs, mushrooms and more in store at Bang-Up Betty, but they move fast, so hurry in!

The feminist in your life needs this “Don’t Tell Me To Smile” keychain by Bang-Up Betty. This enamel skull keychain is great for teens and adults.

Speaking of feminists… the feminist adult in your life needs this “no gaslighting” bottle-opener lighter. I mean, everyone lights candles wink wink. Get it in store at Bang-Up Betty.

How about flowers that bloom all year? These tulip pens change color from clear to bright pinks, purples and blues in the sunlight. Don’t ask us why there’s a photo of Burt Reynolds behind them. We’re just weird.

Got someone on your list that loves tarot? These tarot card incense holders are perfect stocking stuffers for them. Visit Bang-Up Betty to shop from dozens of cards.

We absolutely love these locally made Summit Valley soaps, and we think you will too. Pick from four different styles that all smell amazing.

Stuff your stockings with…. STOCKINGS!!! These awesome unisex socks are fun for grown-ups with a sense of humor.

Everyone loves magnets, especially with their funny. Shop from dozens of funny, naughty, and NSFW magnets at Bang-Up Betty.

Made in Arkansas Gift Guide 2022: 21 Gift Ideas by Local Artisans and Makers

Stacey Bowers

There’s nothing more special than a handmade gift. At Bang-Up Betty, we’re focused on finding and supporting Arkansas artisans and artists who make art and gifts we truly love. Our jewelry and gift store in downtown North Little Rock showcases unique, unusual and excellent Arkansas-made items that you can bet will bring a surprised smile to your loved ones’ faces this holiday season. Not only is every piece of jewelry (and there are hundreds) made here in Arkansas by us, our storefront is stocked with art, pottery, candles, and more by artists all across the state of Arkansas. Here are 20 of our favorite local gifts that you can find at Bang-Up Betty:

Hot Springs ceramicist Carla Churchwell stocks our store with tons of her cute and creative pottery, and we especially love her rainbow and cardinal ornaments for the holidays.

You better believe our fridge at home is stocked with this incredible locally made hot sauce called Opera Sauce. We’re total hot sauce snobs and we give this one two thumbs way up.

If you’ve ever wondered why our store smells so good, it’s because of these candles. Dogtown Scents candles are made in North Little Rock, come in several delightful winter scents, and we’ve even got our own glittery signature Bang-Up Betty scent.

North Little Rock artist Paul Milholland is known for his groovy wooden bird sculptures (which we carry!), and these handmade wooden Arkansas magnets are like collectable pieces of art for your fridge.

Hot Springs pottery maker Carla Churchwell’s little ceramic trees are perfect for building a tiny Christmas village for your holiday decor.

Our handmade Shine Star Necklace comes in bronze and sterling silver and benefits Methodist Family Health in Arkansas. It’s the perfect gift that gives back. Find it in store or online.

Bentonville water-colorist Joseph Buchanan’s beautiful Arkansas landscapes make gorgeous gifts, and this year he’s made holiday cards of scenes like the snowy Old Mill and War Eagle Mill so you can easily mail them to your loved ones who are far away.

Made in North Little Rock, Deal Family toffee is the best toffee we’ve ever tasted. You better come buy it before our staff eats all of it!

These beautiful floral Arkansas keychains by Clever + Tidy let you carry a little Arkansas with you wherever you go.

Made in Maumelle, these colorful Summit Valley Soaps smell as good as they look.

Santa Claus is definitely coming to Dogtown because we’ve been really good this year. These adorable Dogtown ornaments by Heather Reed of Thriftpologie will look perfect on your tree, and the matching reusable cups are great hostess gifts. These will be sold exclusively at Bang-Up Betty starting November 18!

Hot Springs ceramics artist Carla Churchwell’s completely adorable wildlife trinket dishes are always a huge hit when she brings them to the shop. They always go quickly, so hurry in for one!

Sherwood-based illustrator and graphic designer Ashlee Nobel of Lee Lee Arts + Design is one of our crowd favorites, and her new collection of spooky creature prints is beautiful any time of year.

Our custom, hand-stamped mantra cuffs are some of the most popular gifts in our shop. Whether you love a good motivational phrase, have an inside joke, or simply would like a loved one’s name, we can stamp pretty much anything onto one of these bracelets. If you’re looking for more custom jewelry options, we also make custom name necklaces as well as tons of other personalized creations.

The bookworm on your gifting list will love a thoughtful book by a local author. May we recommend From Cotton to Silk: The Magic of Black Hair by artist and writer Crystal C. Mercer or But First, Save 10: The One Simple Money Move That Will Change Your Life by Sarah Catherine Gutierrez? These titles and more are available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Arkansas artist Studio Dust Co. keeps it creepy crawly yet gorgeous with these handmade, framed works of wooden art.

We gotta love a mug that matches our shop! You can feel like you’re at Bang-Up Betty while you drink your morning coffee in one of these groovy rainbow mugs by CSF Design.

Lapel pins make perfect stocking stuffers. We’ve got dozens of designs at Bang-Up Betty, including these crowd favorites that say “dogs are my love language,” “cats are my love language” and “ask me what I’m reading.”

Maumelle-based painter Sherry J. Williamson is one of our absolute favorites, and you’ll find a huge selection of her colorful, inspirational prints and greeting cards at Bang-Up Betty.

Our handmade jewelry is far out (and our jokes are corny). Our Space Age Collection of space-themed jewelry is perfect for any hopeful cosmonaut. We’ll be wearing the Eclipse Earrings to pump ourselves up for the total solar eclipse coming to Arkansas in 2024. Check out the Space Age Collection in store or online.

We can’t get enough of these handmade ceramic stemless wine glasses by Hot Springs artisan Carla Churchwell. Grab a whole set of them or just one for yourself while supplies last at Bang-Up Betty.

Bang-Up Betty is snarky, meaningful, well-made jewelry made in North Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as funny and feminist pins, stickers and gifts. Shop our handmade jewelry alongside clever gifts and local art at our Argenta storefront located at 429 Main Street in North Little Rock above Ristorante Capeo.