Picture an artist who weaves love and connection into every creation—meet Sandra Magsamen! Born in 1959 in Baltimore, Maryland, this award-winning author, artist, and art therapist has touched millions with her heartfelt children’s books, lifestyle products, and mission to spread joy. With over 60 books and a multimillion-dollar gift empire, Sandra’s work celebrates the beauty of everyday moments.
From her charming board books to eco-friendly dinnerware, Sandra’s creations invite readers and families to live artfully. Her philosophy? Connect one heart at a time through creativity and kindness. Let’s dive into the world of this modern-day Renaissance woman!
The Making of Sandra Magsamen
Sandra Lee Magsamen grew up in Baltimore with four sisters, including her twin, Susan Huganir Magsamen, a noted scholar. Her family’s creative roots run deep—her great-grandfather and great-uncle, William and Isaac Fuld, invented the Ouija board in the early 1900s. Sandra’s passion for art bloomed early, leading her to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Swain School of Design in 1981 and a Master’s in Art Therapy from Goucher College in 1984. Her work as an art therapist, helping Alzheimer’s patients and troubled youth express themselves, shaped her belief in art’s power to heal and connect.
In 1987, Sandra began crafting pottery in her kitchen for her newborn daughter, sparking a lifelong mission to share life lessons through art. By 1991, she founded Table Tiles, Inc., a handmade gift company that grew into a multimillion-dollar business, setting the stage for her global impact.
Sandra Magsamen’s Unforgettable Creations
Sandra’s bibliography boasts over 60 children’s books, with more than 8 million copies sold worldwide. Her USA Today bestselling title, Welcome Little One, is a tender board book that celebrates new beginnings with rhyming text and adorable illustrations. Another gem, I Love You, Honey Bunny, wraps young readers in messages of unconditional love, perfect for bedtime snuggles. You! encourages individuality and self-expression, resonating with kids and caregivers alike.
Her style blends whimsical artwork with heartfelt poetry, rooted in her art therapy background. Sandra’s books emphasize belonging, love, and joy, creating meaningful connections between readers and their loved ones. Beyond books, her lifestyle brands—Messages from the Heart, Wishes & Kisses, and From the Studio of Sandra Magsamen—have partnered with retailers like Walmart, Hallmark, and 1-800-Flowers to offer everything from greeting cards to sustainable bamboo dinnerware. Her 2015 collaboration with Studio E Fabrics introduced “sew your own” book kits, bringing her stories to life in huggable, handmade form.
In 2006, Sandra’s book Living Artfully inspired a PBS special, sharing her philosophy of infusing daily life with creativity. Her work’s warmth and accessibility have made her a household name, with books like Peek-a-Boo, I Love You! earning accolades like the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Book Award.
Why Sandra Magsamen Matters
Sandra Magsamen’s impact lies in her ability to foster connection and kindness through art. Her books and products don’t just entertain—they build emotional bonds, helping families share love and values. Her partnerships, from Chick-fil-A’s children’s meal books to her eco-conscious Tiny Footprint Collection with Bamboozle Homewares, reflect her commitment to sustainability and community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched the YouTube series “Hello You!” with Sourcebooks Kids, inspiring children to explore creativity.
With features in O Magazine, The Baltimore Sun, and over 200 columns on Oprah.com, Sandra’s influence spans generations. Her work reminds us that small, heartfelt gestures—like reading a book or sending a card—can change lives. As a founding board member of the American Visionary Art Museum, she continues to champion creativity and connection.
About Sandra Magsamen
- Born: August 22, 1959, Baltimore, Maryland
- Key Works: Welcome Little One, I Love You, Honey Bunny, You!, Living Artfully
- Awards: Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Book Award, National Parenting Publications Gold Award
- Fun Fact: Her great-grandfather co-invented the Ouija board!
Ready to feel the love? Snag Welcome Little One or I Love You, Honey Bunny and dive into Sandra Magsamen’s heartwarming world of connection and joy!