Some lovely Etsy finds, because it's my day to blog and I cannot think right now....
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Mend & Make Do! (Just like the British circa World War II....)
One of the things I love most about being able to craft and create is that it is a character-builder; it's a way to take responsibility, be a good steward, and gain appreciation for things so many take for granted. How so, you ask?
As a crafter, I have the capability to give new life to things that are old, worn out, or just out-dated. And, I can take trash and turn it into treasure. One of my favorite ways of doing this is by fusing plastic grocery sacks into a strong, tarp-like material and creating wallets or grocery totes that can be used over and over again.
Alternately, if I do want something new, I can choose materials that, while not reused, are still sustainable. Like this dress, made from a bamboo fabric. Bamboo is incredible; it grows fast, needs much less room than cotton, requires no pesticides or fertilizers, and--get this--is naturally anti-microbial!! PLUS--it feels soooo soft and fabulous... (What isn't to love about it?!)
Because I am making things daily, I know what goes into an object. I have a greater respect for materials, and hate to see anything thrown into the trash, only to take up space in a landfill. My newest project reflects this. Be warned, it is an experiment!! I really am not a crocheter, but I'm doing a very simple stitch to create a basket made from long, stringy scraps of cotton fabric that I've been saving. I just started this afternoon and will let you know how it turns out!
These are just a few examples of how one can use their crafty skillz to save money and be less wasteful. :)
Signing off,
Leanne of folk.etsy.com and sugarpickle.etsy.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about crafts from the past. There are some great ideas out there that just need to be dusted off and given a fresh coat of paint, so to speak! The details are fuzzy, but someone - me, my sister, my grandma - had one of these patchwork dogs when I was a kid. I've taken the design and incorporated new fabrics to make a vintage-inspired, yet totally up-to-date creation. Next thing you know, I'll be trying to figure out macrame!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
What a Blast!
As if you didn't already know, last Saturday was Wichita Handmade's 1st Craft Sale! And let me say, it was a wonderful time. Lots of friends, lots of handmade things, and thankfully the rain stayed away...although it was chilly for May.
Since we are a relatively new group, it was so exciting to meet people who had heard about us or who recognized our items from our online shops. It was even more exciting that so many were really and truly excited about the "handmade movement"!
And in case you're wondering, I certainly didn't walk away empty-handed, either! (Check out my individual blog to see my goodies.)
Here are a few shots from the day; most of these were taken before the sale started. Photos by Leanne and JaNelle
krexcreations.etsy.com chillin' with his lovely, handmade handbags....(I want them all, by the way!)
itsallaboutvintage.etsy.com sits behind her booth of gorgeous jewelry, handmade from vintage pieces--fabulous!!
angelady619.etsy.com with her lovely little angels and inspirational items.
backyardstudio.etsy.com setting up some ceramic goods; she has photography, too!
shellystout.etsy.com: ribbon candy & eye candy, too!
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