making everything
Frau Rau Co. began in the early '90s when this little frau could get her hands on any beads, yarn, rhinestones and crafts. The house was filled with beaded lizards, lanyards, friendship bracelets, latch hooked rugs, pearl knit scarves - each in every color of the rainbow. My passion for crafting and making original items blossomed at home as I explored new mediums and challenges.
beads
Circa 2011 in Eugene, OR, this college student frau took a wire wrapping class at Harlequin Beads & Jewelry and couldn't stop making gemstone and gold-filled jewelry. I took this passion to Baltimore, MD where I made my first jewelry collection and launched sales on Etsy. Sourcing beads from coast to coast, pieces include emeralds, pearls, labradorite, onyx, carnelian, amethyst, ruby and citrine.
sewing
My mom taught me how to hand sew at a young age but I wanted to take my skill set further an add some power (aka speed). In 2015, twenty-something frau took a 3 hour sewing class at Mood Fabrics in NYC and learned the basics of machine sewing. I got a my first sewing machine for Christmas and was finally able to quickly do hems at home and start experimenting with garment fabrication.
patchwork
Along came the pandemic in 2020 when we all found ourselves cooped up at home. I dove back into my making obsessions and decided I would make my first quilt. One turned into many, which lead to lots of patchwork, baby blankets, scrunchies, bags, dresses, tops, table runners, napkins, our Christmas tree skirt and stockings, outfits for our pup, and so much more.
in bloom
Today, Frau Rau continues to imagine, design and make original handmade items in different mediums. Currently exploring bead knotting with semi-precious gemstones, 100% silk cord and gold-filled findings, the jewelry shop is full with one of a kind pieces. Designs are filled with bright colors, contrast and fun - a mix of inner child spirit and elevated style. The sewing studio is still bustling with totes, baby items, pup stuff and home goods. FRC is open for business and at a market near you in 2025!