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Hi! I'm B!

Hi, I’m Barbara — the maker behind bmakesthings & Wild Marigold.

My creative path has never fit neatly into one box.

Even with a formal degree in art, I was always told that creativity had to fit into a traditional 9-to-5 job or stay tucked away as a weekend hobby. Over the years, I did a little bit of everything—painting, graphic design, jewelry making, writing, and spending nearly 20 years managing retail operations.

Eventually, I realized that true creativity rarely fits into a rigid box—and it isn't something you just churn out on an assembly line. It’s a skill, a practice, and a meaningful way of connecting with people.

Today, all those paths finally cross in the work I share.

About bmakesthings

Here. at bmakesthings, I bring everything else together. It’s a home for my original mixed-media art, handpicked vintage finds, and practical creative education.

Rather than overwhelming you with complicated tools, I focus on sharing easy online learning, basic mixed-media techniques, and approachable craft tips. My goal is to help you build confidence, make the best work you can with the materials you already have, and trust your own unique creative voice.

Around here, you’ll find:

  • Accessible art & craft techniques that fit into real life
  • Permission to make things imperfectly (think camp crafts for grown-ups)
  • A warm space for lifelong artists, curious beginners, or anyone who misses making things just for the fun of it

    Pull up a chair—there’s always room at the table.

About Wild Marigold

These days I've been working from transitioning my jewelry line (Soul Collective Studio) into a full lifestyle project, showcasing my own handmade aesthetic mixed with a curated mix of diverse handmade folks I've met making excellent work. While many know me for my symbolic jewelry and talismans inspired by history, devotion, and the divine feminine, my line is expanding. Wild Marigold is excited to launch to include new accessory designs, apparel, and intentional goods made for everyday life both designed by myself & other small maker brand.

Behind The Scenes

I'm also passionate about publishing projects that give back and tell meaningful stories. Right now, I’m working on a children’s book project centered on robots and neurodiversity, as well as a tribute album project created to benefit food insecurity.

To read more about these projects, please visit my blog.

 Read the Blog →

Recent Journal Entries

How to Make a DIY Acrylic Wet Palette from Stuff You Already Have

How to Make a DIY Acrylic Wet Palette from Stuff You Already Have

|Barbara Bechtel
Tired of your acrylic paints drying out mid-session? Learn how to craft a high-performance DIY wet palette using simple kitchen supplies you already own—plus a secret trick to keep mold...

Shop Wild Marigold

Necklaces

Necklaces