Lauren, Spicy Bean Creates

If there was ever a queen of cute chaos, it’s Lauren — the maker behind Spicy Bean Creates. Between polymer clay critters, digital art stationery, and teaching workshops for kids, teens, and grown-ups alike, she somehow manages to keep resin, clay, and Pepsi Max Cherry flowing at all times.

But it hasn’t all been smooth sculpting. Early on in her polymer clay journey, Lauren lovingly crafted a Pochita phone stand — only to discover that epoxy resin is, in fact, a very powerful glue. Instead of a shiny new stand, she ended up with a masterpiece permanently attached to a plastic chopping board. (Yes, she did eventually saw it off. No, the resin bubble never let her forget it.)

Her workspace? To outsiders, it looks quirky and adorable. In reality: a battlefield of spilled resin, squished clay, and the occasional dark-chocolate wrapper. Snacks and drinks are non-negotiable — dirty chai tea with honey, endless Pepsi Max Cherry (“pretty sure it’s 90% of my blood”), apples, and enough dark chocolate to fuel a small army.

Lauren admits she’s not one to stop once inspiration strikes. Midnight clay sessions often spiral until 2 a.m., leaving her studio looking like a tiny tornado has passed through. And while she hates glazing with a passion, she’s developed a ritual: if the sun shines, she sits, manifests good vibes (“just this once let it work the first time”), and prays the resin behaves. Sometimes, it actually does.

We’ve been lucky enough to work with Lauren on Holistic at Home already — I received a gorgeous print and a custom clay piece that I’m still obsessed with (seriously, it’s fabulous). And the cutest DIY project from Spicy Bean Creates will be tucked inside our Founder Box — so subscribers get to experience a little slice of her quirky, colorful chaos first-hand.

If you can’t wait until then, go take a peek at her store and fall in love with her creations yourself — just don’t blame us if you end up with a cart full of critters and clay magic.