As a small business owner, it only makes sense to support other small businesses. These are some makers whose work has lent joy and warmth to my studio over the years. Click their names to visit their online shops!

Erin Heaton

St. Louis-based artist Erin Heaton’s music note art is a staple in my studio. My studio space is decorated with her prints—students love seeing how many musical symbols they can recognize in the art. They also love receiving her pins, magnets, stickers, and cards for special occasions.

Bob’s Musical Art

Florida-based artist Bob Richardson upcycles old pianos (and other instruments), turning them into sculptures. The piano hammer keychains from his shop have been a huge hit with my students and make perfect recital gifts. The model piano action in my studio was also assembled by Bob, and it’s one of my favorite teaching tools.

Lichia Liu/GOTAMAGO

Toronto-based artist Lichia Liu makes whimsical hand-illustrated stationary, and her work is always in my rotation of student birthday goodies.

Susie Ghahremani/boygirlparty

San Deigo-based artist Susie Ghahremani makes wearable art, including enamel pins, keychains, tote bags, and quite possibly the cutest pocket mirrors ever. Her style is vibrant and distinct, I can always find a huge variety of inexpensive yet high-quality student gifts. Having a studio full of kids who love to read, I often keep her book plate sets on hand.