How a Lump of Clay Changed Everything: The Butterfly Effect Behind Heart n Soul Studios

They say the butterfly effect 🦋 is wild—how one tiny moment can shape your entire future. For me, it started with a therapy session, a little boy, and a lump of polymer clay.

Eleven years ago, I never imagined I’d become a full-time polymer clay artist, traveling from fair to faire with glowing fairy bottles, whimsical gnomes, dragons, unicorns, and jars brimming with enchantment. Back then, I was simply a mom trying to support her son.

Anthony had recently been diagnosed on the spectrum, and during one of his therapy sessions, his therapist introduced polymer clay as a sensory tool. I was there—watching, helping, learning—and something sparked. I’d always been an artist, but I had never worked with polymer clay before. The moment I touched it, I was hooked.

Anthony asked me to make him an elephant.🐘 I did. Then we picked up a DIY dragon kit, and that simple project became the beginning of something so much bigger.

Little dragons were the first things I made that made me think, “I want to share this with others.” They were tiny, full of character, and full of love. That’s where the seeds of Heart n Soul Studios were planted.

Polymer clay wasn’t just fun—it was healing. For Anthony, it was a calming, creative outlet. 🎨 For me, it opened the door to a new artistic chapter I never saw coming. That little moment created a ripple effect that changed our lives.

Today, Anthony loves watching me grow and is proud to help—whether it’s setting up our booth, filming silly reels, or giving me feedback on new creations. Heart n Soul Studios has truly become a family adventure.

And what I make now? It’s evolved from those early animals into heartfelt, intention-filled art. Everything I create is meant to help others on their journey—to bring love, 💚 happiness, and a little bit of magic into their day.

When someone holds one of my creations, I hope they don’t just see a gnome or a dragon—I hope they feel the magic.💫

That’s the butterfly effect.
And I wouldn’t change a single flutter. 🦋

Xoxox 

Maria

Evolution in Motion – Creative Growth, Fencing Fundraisers, and Tiny Gnome Magic

 As I embrace my word for 2025—Evolution—I’ve been feeling the shift in both my personal and creative journey. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of tiny creations, big plans, and meaningful projects, and I can’t wait to share what’s been happening behind the scenes at Heart n Soul Studios!

Tiny Gnomes, Big Energy

I officially introduced my newest obsession—Tiny Gnomes! These little guys might be small, (but bigger than the Lucky Pocket Gnomes), but they’re packed with personality.  I knew they’d be popular, people are already asking to purchase them. I'm still creating this spring collection of 9 different styles, only 25 of each design. That means 225 Tiny Gnomes in my workshop, waiting to bring a little magic into your life! From Ladybug Gnomes to Shamrock Gnomes, this collection is pure springtime joy.

Fencing Fundraiser – A Cause Close to My Heart

While my hands have been covered in clay, my mind has been on another important project—helping raise funds for my son’s high school fencing team. The Passaic Valley Fencing Team is in dire need of new fencing strips. The ones they currently have are worn out and taped down for every practice and meet, which isn’t ideal for safety or performance. With 22 students (9 girls and 13 boys) dedicated to the sport, I want to do everything I can to help them get what they need. Stay tuned for fundraising efforts—I’d love for the Heart n Soul community to be part of this!

What’s Next?

With the Goblin Market on March 2nd as my first event of the year, I’m gearing up for an exciting season. I’m also working on red mushroom jars that make the cutest tooth fairy jars (perfect for little ones to place on a windowsill!) or small keepsake holders for adults. And of course, I’ll be adding even more magical creations to the shop in the coming weeks.

✨ Thank you for visiting—may these treasures bring love and light to your journey. ✨

You are loved!
xoxoxox
Maria

Well that didn't last long

 

TikTok is back! That did not last long at all. I'm already to learn about posting instead of just watching. I know the secret sauce is talking about your life and telling stories. I'm not sure what I will but I will start to do something.