About Hopestone

A hope stone is a physical prayer. There is no need to find the words, simply hold it in the palm of your hand and know that there is hope.

Our founder, Joyce Fogle, received a hope stone shortly after being diagnosed with brain cancer in March 2008. It struck such a strong chord with her that she had more made to pass on to friends and family. Seeing the hope stones have that same powerful impact on her loved ones gave Joyce additional comfort and a sense of purpose. It is our intent at Hopestone Studio to continue Joyce's legacy of high quality art wear and to continue to pass on hope.

Joyce began her career as a silk artist in 1985 after being an educator in Alaska for 12 years. Specializing in Shibori, Joyce found a niche to be filled in the art wear market. Joyce has marketed her work through the American Craft Council shows and a sales representative, Molly. Joyce has grown her business to the seven person operation it is today.

Lauren Florence was Joyce's first employee, hired in 1994 when Lauren graduated from the University of Kansas with a Fine Arts degree in Textile Design, she helped with all aspects of production for close to a year. In the 15 years since leaving the studio, Lauren built a career in Information Technology in the energy trading industry in Tulsa, OK and in Houston, TX. However, her art and design interests continued to play a large part in her everyday life, and during a visit shortly after Joyce's diagnosis with brain cancer, the idea came to both Joyce and Lauren, that Lauren could come back to the studio full time.

Lauren left Houston in April 2009 and the studio was renamed Hopestone Studio in June.  

Joyce and Lauren collaborated, worked and laughed together in between Joyce's treatments and frequent trips with family.  For both, the time was invaluable.  Joyce lost her battle with cancer in October 2009.  Hopestone Studio dearly misses its founder, but is extremely proud to be carrying on what she started in a manner in which she would be proud.

Hopestone Studio is a team of remarkable women. With Lauren setting the design direction and the staff ensuring the perfection of every detail, every day is a continuation of quality craftsmanship. It is their great determination and love for their work that has enabled such beautiful garments to continue to be produced at the studio.

And with Lauren came Caroline, who has become an exceptional studio dog and an integral part of the team. She ensures that hugs, kisses and smiles are part of every day. We like to think this is her own way of passing on hope.