Crafty workshops + goods
1/04 Raised Aluminum I
"This event was truly special. Previous attendees invited their friends, creating a wonderful mix of familiar faces and new participants. Raffle tickets for a free workshop were distributed to all attendees, with additional tickets given to those who traveled the farthest and to anyone who assisted the lead during key moments.
I shared a bit about my background, which sparked a meaningful conversation between a PhD student and one of the guests, allowing them to bond and open up more. Once again, I emphasized that these workshops are not just about learning a new skill but also about pausing, connecting with others, releasing stress, and stepping away from work or other pressures. They're a chance to form new connections and simply enjoy the moment.
I'm truly grateful for these few hours spent with such a wonderful group."
1/12 Raised Aluminum II
"The workshop was truly wonderful, especially with the addition of the meditation aspect. Everyone was open and vulnerable, which added a deeper and more meaningful dimension to the experience.
A couple of friends were particularly excited to learn the ins and outs of aluminum embossing. They had tried it at home before but weren’t satisfied with their results. They attended for the personalized, one-on-one guidance to better understand the proper tools and materials and to refine their technique.
The flower bouquet portion of the event was also a highlight. We learned how to clean eucalyptus stems, arrange them aesthetically, and wrap them in paper to create a fluffy, beautiful bouquet.
This workshop was a nice distraction for all of us, especially considering that many of us carry lingering traumas from previous pandemics or similar events. The time spent together offered a moment to breathe, connect, and find comfort amidst the ongoing challenges posed by the fires in Los Angeles."
1/18 Chingonahood Event
"We have decided to offer our event space to the Southeast LA Collaborative to support their temporary pop-up distribution center, providing essential aid to those in need. Given our focus on assisting the community during this time, we feel it is not the right moment for the event. Discussions are underway to postpone the event to a different date."
1/25 Craft for a Cause
"The charity event was truly heartwarming and unforgettable. The attendees included a group of four children with their parents, an aunt and her niece, a pair of girlfriends, a trio of girlfriends, and two solo participants. The room was filled with laughter and conversation as everyone mingled, some staying within their groups while others connected with new faces. The energy was joyful and uplifting.
For the first time in a while, I, as the host and lecturer, had the rare chance to sit back and soak in the beauty of it all. To ensure everyone had the space they needed to create comfortably, we split the group of 13 into two sessions—one at 2 PM and the other at 6 PM.
The pan dulce Minnie ear headbands turned out absolutely magical. Each pair was lovingly crafted, lined with decorative trim around the ears and the inside of the headband. Guests picked their favorite felt colors for the “crispy topping,” while I provided semi-prepped ears to make things easier. What made it even more special were the personal touches—one guest added a hidden Mickey to their design, a playful nod to the Disney magic, while several others included hearts as part of their sugar shapes.
Watching everyone’s unique ideas come to life filled me with so much gratitude. It wasn’t just about making headbands—it was about bringing people together, sharing creativity, and making memories. Events like this remind me why I love what I do."
1/31 Raised Aluminum III
"It was such a pleasure meeting everyone at Iona Work Spaces!
A huge shoutout to East Blue Coffee for their delicious brews, as highlighted by Iona Work Spaces. If you're joining the next Plé Day, I highly recommend trying "The Neslly."
A special thank you to Jessie and Joe for treating us to a wonderful Lunar New Year lunch celebration—it truly made the day even more memorable.
Partial funding went toward LA fire relief, making this event not only productive but also impactful. ✊🏽"
2/08 Raised Aluminum IV
"This workshop combined two crafts into one creative evening! In part one, we embossed aluminum to create an accent piece for a Valentine’s card. In part two, we embellished a scapular—a project inspired by a returning workshop attendee. We sipped on champagne with orange juice (because it’s 9 o’clock somewhere!) and spent the evening chatting and enjoying quality time together.
Thank you all for giving crafting a try!"
3/01 Crown Workshop I
Empty Shelf, San Gabriel, CA at 2 PM
Per Empty Shelf's suggestion, we are crafting our own flower crowns—this time using real flowers!
3/16 Pottery Workshop I
Empty Shelf, CA at 4:30 PM
3/23 Pottery Workshop II
Mexican-Style Terra Cotta Plate, Mug, or Bowl Workshop
2736 E Walnut St, Pasadena, CA at 3 PM
4/12 Paper Mache Craft
Empty Shelf, San Gabriel, CA at 2 PM
A craft class where participants learn how to create decorative mirrors by building a frame out of paper mache—fun!
6/17 Piñata Workshop IV
Fallbrook Library, Fallbrook, CA at 1 PM
Free—please call the branch to sign up.
6/17 Raised Aluminum V
Fallbrook Library, Fallbrook, CA at 4:30 PM
Free—please call the branch to sign up.
09/07 Piñata Workshop I
"This group of sixteen was truly a blessing. Their talent and support were evident in every way—they came together to create, design, and have fun. I was honored to guide them through their creative process and was genuinely surprised by their ingenuity. While I provided the framework for making a Frida face piñata, they took the reins and truly made it their own. A big thank you to @emptyemptyshelf for providing a space where we could create within their bookstore and collective space. Their mission and creative energy have already made a significant impact since their opening. Special thanks to Elysia and Maritza from Mujeres Makers Market for their unexpected support; their dedication extends far beyond their work at the marketplace they co-manage. Lastly, I’m grateful to the two small business piñata makers who donated samples and shared their valuable expertise and tips. After the workshop, we all gained a newfound appreciation for the art of piñata-making."
10/05 Crown Workshop
"Fifteen remarkable women came together this evening—educators, professionals, a child, and business owners. Their unique and beautiful crowns reflected their individuality and spirit, while the distant sound of Coco resonated in the background.
Thank you to Empty Shelf for providing a space for us to express ourselves and connect with one another."
10/12 Panteón Fest
"This was a wonderful opportunity to escape town and immerse myself in the remarkable work of talented artists. From Aztec drummers and traditional music to processions, theatrical performances, face painting, handmade crafts, Catrines and Catrinas, special guests, and more, the event had so many incredible aspects. It was an amazing afternoon and night filled with respectful and talented people. What an extraordinary team! I’m so glad to have been part of their second annual event."
10/19 Trunk or Treat
"Last year’s event was the first of its kind in the area, and it exceeded all my expectations. This year featured even more vendors and a wider variety of things to see, do, and taste. Selling alongside a close friend made a world of difference, and it was a joy to connect with all the Glendora locals. We hope to see you again next year!"
11/01+02 Flower Workshop
"What a wonderful opportunity to create an altar at the heart of Empty Shelf, honoring special people and pets. A heartfelt thank you to the owner for allowing us to share and celebrate our culture and beliefs."
11/03 Piñata Workshop II
"What a beautiful experience it was to craft under the San Barbara sky. It was truly special to guide a teacher, a third-grade business owner, an art contest winner, and so many others. A heartfelt thank you to Mujeres Makers Market for the invitation."
11/24 Holiday Workshop
"It was a pleasure hosting an intimate gathering of six at a beautifully decorated venue. From what I observed, it felt like a getaway for a group of three, a retreat for a couple, and a unique experience for a walk-in — all coming together to connect with one another in their own special way. The highlight of the evening? The sweaters, which turned out incredible, adorned with garlands, bells, felt cut-outs, and twinkling Christmas lights. It was an evening of connecting and a whole lot of holiday spirit!"
12/07 Piñata Workshop III
"I told the class, 'It’s not about the craft. It’s about connecting with one another and taking a break to de-stress for an hour or two.' During the piñata-making session, we played a few games, including trivia questions. For example, I asked: What’s the name of the store we’re at (Empty Shelf)? What’s the name of the business hosting the workshop (Anosty)? And what’s the meaning behind the seven peaks on the piñata (the seven deadly sins)? I also challenged everyone to learn each other’s names by the end of the class, helping ensure everyone interacted and bonded.
Though piñata-making is a lengthy process that usually can’t be completed in just 1-2 hours, it was helpful for the class to have a pre-made base to work with. This base was created in the first workshop of the series, where we taught participants how to construct it without the peaks. That allowed everyone to focus on the more creative aspects of the project during this session.
Overall, I’m so grateful to have been part of all four piñata-making sessions (hosted in San Gabriel, Garden Grove, Santa Barbara, and once again in San Gabriel, CA). This one, in particular, marked the last session of 2024. We started by teaching how to make a small piñata and ended with the construction of a big one — we went big, and then we went home."