Handmade Floral Accessories by Christine of Bean and the Sprout

Christine, who happens to live very nearby, makes one of a kind floral hair accessories and jewelry. Read on to hear about how she started her line and the creative ways she sources her raw materials.


Name: Christine
Location: I work out of my home studio in Urbandale, Iowa (a suburb of Des Moines)
Site: beanandthesprout.etsy.com

Tell me a little bit about your work.
Bean and the Sprout is a line of handmade accessories inspired by Southern ladies. Each piece is created by hand from vintage fabrics and jewelry found at estate sales, thrift stores, etc. I love taking an old outdated dress or blouse and turning it into something beautiful. Each of my pieces is one of a kind and meant to add a little elegance to any ensemble, whether it be a t-shirt and jeans or a party dress.

How long have you been making your creations?
I started making my creations about a year and a half ago. I just finished up art school but didn't have a job, so I began making headbands for myself. Slowly, my friends began to express interest, I did a craft fair and got great feedback. The momentum just built from there.

What sets your work apart? 
Since everything comes from vintage materials, there is a story behind each piece, whether it came from an old prom or wedding gown, or a men's tie. Each of my pieces has a really beautiful delicacy. I create each piece by hand, and I love bright, vibrant colors. I think there is an unexpected quality to many of my details (a vintage medal, a small pin in an interesting shape). 

What inspires you? 
I am inspired by springtime in Savannah, great vintage jewelry, oak trees covered in Spanish moss, old books on etiquette, anything I find at a thrift store, estate sale, or flea market. I'm inspired by Alphonse Mucha, Art Nouveau, and anything with sequins.

Where did you learn to make your pieces? 
My mom is an amazing seamstress and taught me how to sew when I was little. Most of what I currently do has originated from goofing around and playing with fabrics that I had on hand. I love color and texture in any form whether it be in visual arts or fashion.