Hello, my name is Kristin K. Larriva. I established Design thru Print in 1998, after working in the Graphic Arts/Printing field for about ten years. I began as a Freelance Graphic Artist. I did very well so I decided to become incorporated. It was at that time I discovered beading. So I created Handmade by Kristin.

Becoming a mother and raising my child was the biggest reason I wanted to work for myself at home.

My jewelry designs and sales were growing. Design thru print was not, this was my own doing. I turned down many graphic arts jobs to stay at home. From time to time I do receive some business that I can do at home. I have never lost touch with my graphic skills. I always utilized my background. I alone have designed, created and printed (on my home printer) catalogs, business card, packaging, display pieces all of which I use to promote Handmade by Kristin.

While exploring my options, I came to discover that retail establishments put a 100% mark-up on the items I sold to them for resale. I did not appreciate that, I wanted to offer the consumer the best price, so that option was out of the question. I decided to try some art shows and fairs. I did well, but the weather here in Arizona is hot, so I was not sold on this method either.

The Internet seemed to be the only answer. Putting together handmadebykristin.com was quite the undertaking. With the help of my husband, Greg, we created and designed this complete website. We are a good team, he was also from the Printing Industry, having worked in the area for about 16 years. We also designed, created and are maintaining the website barbaralarriva.com.

If you have any questions or comments concerning either website please contact design@handmadbykristin.com.