About

Our Story

Studio Art 101 was founded by Kelli Riley, a diligent mom, wife, and creative soul. As an artist and crafter, Kelli is passionate about using her craft to connect with others, inspire creativity, and contribute to her community. Studio Art 101 is not just a business; it's a slow-crafted studio where creativity thrives, and where the beauty of handmade art brings comfort, joy, and inspiration to those who experience it.

My passion for crafting began when I returned to school at my local community college after many years away. It felt like being back in art school, exploring new mediums like stained glass, mosaics, pen and ink, crochet, and clay. It was crocheting and clay that truly captivated me, allowing me to lose myself in the process and experience that peaceful, euphoric feeling of creating something beautiful. Art became my therapy—an escape where the world fades away and I can simply create.

What started as a way to unwind after long days has blossomed into a business where I can share my handmade creations with others, bringing joy and comfort to homes. In every piece I make, I honor my paternal grandmother, Carolyn Willis. She is my inspiration, she was always creating beauty around her—from her elegant tapestries to her vibrant breakfast nook to her lush garden. She worked with her hands, and I am proud to carry on that tradition, feeling incredibly blessed to do so.

Welcome to the community!

The Work

  • Pottery

    Each ceramic piece is hand-built using carefully chosen pottery clays — from earthy stoneware to smooth terra cotta. I hand-carve, texture, and glaze every piece in small batches, so each one carries a story of its own. You’ll find everything from functional everyday vessels to sculptural objects that bring a little art into your daily ritual.

    Browse Artisanal Earth Pottery →

  • Crochet & Fiber

    My crochet work draws from traditional techniques — textured stitches, and natural fiber pairings — reimagined for modern homes and everyday style. Whether it’s a pillow that adds warmth to a corner, a basket that brings order to a shelf, or an accessory that completes a look, each piece is crocheted by hand with care and close attention to texture and form.

    Handmade Crochet Comforts  ·  Crocheted Baskets  ·  Crocheted Pillows  ·  Hair Accessories

  • Why Handmade?

    In a world of fast everything, handmade is a small act of resistance — a choice to slow down, to value the hours a maker poured into an object, to live with things that mean something. When you bring a Studio Art 101 piece home, you’re not just buying an object. You’re choosing craft over convenience, story over sameness, and connection over consumption. Every piece leaves this studio having been touched, shaped, and finished by hand.

Let's Connect

Have a question, a custom piece in mind, or just want to say hello? I’d love to hear from you.

Get in TouchShop The Studio

Mission

Our mission is to bring comfort and joy into the lives of others by creating handcrafted, thoughtfully designed pieces that celebrate the beauty of craftsmanship. Through our crochet items and pottery, we aim to create more than just products—we create moments of warmth, connection, and happiness, one handmade piece at a time.

What Motivates Us

  • Community

    Crafting is more than just making—it’s about building bonds, sharing experiences, and creating something meaningful. We want to foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to explore their creativity, find joy in the process, and feel a sense of belonging in a vibrant, supportive community.

    Learn About Crafted Joy Collective 

  • Service

    We are stronger when we support each other. We understand that our success is not just about creating beautiful crafts, but about making a meaningful impact in the lives of those around us. By giving back to local nonprofits and initiatives, we aim to contribute to the well-being and growth of our community, offering support where it’s needed most.

    Learn About Community Giving 

  • Beauty & Inspo

    This motivation is the profound impact our travels, exposure to different cultures, and art museum visits have had on our creative journey. Experiencing the world’s diverse art forms, traditions, and landscapes has broadened our perspective and fueled our passion for bringing those influences into our own work. By sharing our creations, we hope to inspire others to explore, embrace, and celebrate the richness of the world around them.

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