Wichita Handmade

New Year, New Attitude.

2012-01-09T13:11:00.005-06:00

This time of year always seems so inspiring, so full of possibilities--New Year's Resolutions have yet to be broken (hopefully!), the hours of daylight are increasing, and visions of spring gardening dance in my head as I page through the R.H. Shumway seed catalog…(snuggled under a warm blanket, of course.)

I feel particularly inspired and motivated this year. Why? I have no idea! But I do.

To keep myself motivated, this year I've decided to embark on a 365 project. (My particular project is to make an apple a day, be it drawn, painted, sculpted, cut, arranged, etc.)

Day 4 of An Apple A Day

I'm also making a habit of collecting and saving inspirational photos, be it in a physical scrap book or the virtual scrapbook known as Pinterest.

A sample of my Pinterest board...

And finally, I am attempting to get organized. This is a tough one for me, and I can't make any promises, but I know that I have to clean up my act if I want to be more productive! This means organizing what I need, getting rid of things I don't need, and keeping better records...

What are you doing to get yourself inspired this year? I'd love to know!!

xoxo,

Leanne

Fall is in the air

2011-10-30T00:00:00.004-05:00

I love Halloween! It's finally here, the chill in the air is always a welcome sign for me that my favorite time of the year is at hand. Halloween is the beginning of "THE HOLIDAYS", that time when we all bundle up and hunker down for the whirlwind of what is the last three months of the year.

For people like us it's the perfect excuse to showcase our talents to put a smile on people's faces. Whether you crochet, knit, sew, paint, scrapbook, sculpt, or one of the many other countless mediums, it's your opportunity to share your creations with all the people you love, or just put them on display to share with the world. It doesn't matter if your a master craftsman or just like to dabble in the creative arts your offerings will usually be well received if not just simply because you took the time to make it with your bare hands. Of course nowadays our high-tech mass produced world has seemed to drown out some of the appreciation for the simpler things. I think there is a lot to be said for something you put your time, heart and soul into. So no matter what you like to create, take the inspiration of the holidays and use it to bring some joy, and some really great items to the world.

Art on the Farmland

2011-10-18T08:40:00.006-05:00

It was our last day in Wisconsin. Our last day to soak up whatever the dairy state had to offer that we weren't likely to find back in Wichita. Having had our fill of cheese curds and brats, we were delighted at the possibility of a Fermentation Festival in the next town over. Apparently there are a lot of things that are fermented we didn’t even realize… Kimchi, silage and chocolate (yes, chocolate). And apparently, we're the type of couple who's interested in such odd things as fermentation.

Along with the Fermentation Fest, for its first year ever, was a coinciding exhibition. The "Farm Art D’Tour" (quickly renamed by Stephanie as the F’Art D’Tour because she can’t resist assigning her own name to anything) became the most intriguing part of our trip. In our 2003 Alero with Stephanie’s parents in the back playing the not-always-asked-for roles of navigators, we traveled a 50-mile route along some of the most beautiful scenery we have ever seen. Rolling hills, red and yellow leaves, cow-filled pastures. As Nathan put it, “I feel like I’m inside Norman Rockwell’s imagination”. But this amazing beauty was just a backdrop to the surprising views we were to see along the route.

With a rudimentary map that contained often-cryptic titles, we drove mile after mile looking to the side of the road for something to appear somewhere. And what that something would be, we had no idea. We discovered “Field Weave” was an amazing, large installation of colorful acrylic fibers that danced in the wind. Unfortunately a photograph can’t capture the beauty of its movement.

Further along, an artist literally uses land into his art with “Farmed Frame”, and just a bit up the road from that was “Stonehenge” made entirely of hay bales.

We passed along such sights as silage bags painted as catepillars, messages mowed into fields as well as more than a few Amish farmers going along with their regular day-to-day life as looky-loos passed them along the curved, hilly highway. Then we took a stop into a town along the route, population 326, where we visit “Granny’s” diner for homemade chicken dumpling soup, cheese curds (we couldn’t resist) and our first ever taste of Walnut Pie and also a Blackberry pie made with wild blackberries.

Being most intrigued by fiber arts, Stephanie’s favorite installation was “Come What May” by artist Katie Schofield, who we were fortunate to meet right at the beginning of the Farm Art D’Tour. It was a scene you'd expect to see in some sort of fantasy movie, with about a dozen or so of these cocoon-like objects hanging on trees. The crafted objects felt like they belonged in the nature, like they were created by some sort of supernatural creature. The artist is one of many people who live at something called a WormFarm (which is sort of a commune of arts working on a farm).

We never made it to the Fermentation Fest. Our accidental discovery of the art in the FarmArt D’Tour, not only by mostly local artists but also by farmers living along the route, was more than we could have hoped for. It was art. It was craft. It was clever ingenuity. I’m sure their 2nd one will be even better. And despite the 12 hours it takes for us to drive to Wisconsin, I’m sure we’ll be there to see it.

Thanks for sponsoring us Etsy!

2010-08-17T11:46:00.001-05:00

Wow we had a GREAT turn out for the

Farmers Market and Craft extravaganza!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Etsy for sponsoring us!

ShopVintageGirl.etsy.com

BackYardStudio.etsy.com

PinkelEmbellishments.etsy.com

WhitneyWest.etsy.com

Ryleighsmomma.etsy.com

krexcreations.etsy.com

TaylaBDesigns.etsy.com

LilStinkersCraft.etsy.com

PickelsandPumpkins.etsy.com

www.themissinglink76.etsy.com

Thank you AGAIN, Etsy!

2010-08-02T20:11:00.003-05:00

So....we got an Etsy grant. We used it for a super-sweet button machine. And then, as if that wasn't wonderful enough, we get THIS sweet little package direct from Etsy headquarters!

Vegan lip balm, cool craft-themed buttons, awesome bumper stickers, OH MY! :D

Thank you ETSY!

2010-07-14T12:55:00.001-05:00

thank you!

THANK YOU!

Thank you Etsy for the lovely grant for the button machine!

We adore it!

Look out Wichita, we have buttons and we are here to stay.

I can't wait to make a ton of these to hand out at all of our events!

It's GIVEAWAY time!

2010-06-29T18:25:00.002-05:00

Got Kids?

Hop on over to our Facebook Fan Page to enter!

Stroller Strap!

Keeps kids close, but not too close.

Perfect for attaching to strollers, grocery carts, diaper bags, it even fits on your arm comfortably.

Make Your Everyday Things Handmade Things

2010-06-22T13:00:00.005-05:00

In hopes of helping those who still may be in possession of this mindset, I am going to admit to once having thought in this way:

Sure, it's great to support handmade and local sellers, but I don't always need and/or have the money for those little "extras." After I go to the store to pick up my everyday essentials for living, I don't always want to buy some cute little handmade trinket.

Solution: be sure your everyday things are handmade (or vinage!) things!!

Sometimes people (including myself) forget that buying handmade doesn't have to be a luxury, it can be a lifestyle. You may not need a mustache on a stick, but everyone needs an ink pen! And you may find fingerless gloves impractical on a winter day in Kansas, but real gloves and mittens are always great!

So please check out these fabulous, functional items from Kansas Etsians!

Kitchen & Bathroom Sink Soap by woodenfencesoaps, $4

2 CC's Pillow by whitneywest, $35

Gunpowder and Rosebuds Handmade Tea Pouches by teasandtapestries, $6

Strawberry Scoops Sparkle Book Cover by annebvinyl, $14

UNCONVENTIONAL OLIVE hand dyed kitchen towels by StirAtHome, $22

Vintage Round Samsonite Green Marbled Suitcase by SarahAnntiques, $55

Country Quilt Coasters (Set of 4) by Folk, $12

Mesquite Twist Pen by WoodAndGlass, $19

White German Shepherd Magnet Set by blennox , $8.99

Oak Leaves Business Card Holder by JustPuff, $10

Recycled Handmade Paper Pack in Toasted Peach by SimplyInvitingCards, $13.50

Book Shelf by BuckCreekFurnishings, $84

Wichita Welcomes The Onion Tree!

2010-06-14T22:19:00.001-05:00

Yesssss!!! I am pleased to present to you Wichita's very first ALL HANDMADE store--The Onion Tree. This is...awesome. In my midwest world of Wal-Marts and mass-produced imports, this is the stuff that dreams are made of....all handmade. All quality, all beautiful!! Located at 120 N. Hillside in Wichita, this lovely boutique features many artists from Kansas and some from other states, as well. Some of my Kansas favorites include the funky, eco-friendly jewelry of iamthemandy, Madame Scodioli's (the bearded lady's) goat soap, and some great glam threads byMountainscreamer.

But truly, there are so many fabulous handmade things to choose from. (And boy was I disappointed that I didn't have any cash to spend that day! Next time....)

ALSO, once I get some other projects taken care of, I plan to take my own items down to The Onion Tree! Stay tuned.

xoxo,

Leanne

We're Having a Giveaway!

2010-06-08T14:00:00.003-05:00

We are having a giveaway which starts today and ends on Saturday, June 19th, when ONE lucky winner will win the lovely wristlet shown below! (Designed and handmade by Folk.)

How to enter? It's easy!:

1. Check out our facebook fan page and become a fan.

2. Leave a comment on our giveaway status (here.)

3. You're done!

Good luck, and be sure to spread the word! The more participants we have, the more often we will have giveaways. :)

Art Pride Parade 2010

2010-06-03T15:16:00.006-05:00

What's better than a parade?? A parade about ART, of course!!

On Saturday, May 29th, members of Wichita Handmade marched in the Squirrelly Girl's Art Pride Parade in the Delano District. Dressed in fabulous (and somewhat freakish!) finery, we strutted our stuff down Douglas Avenue, handing out giveaways to the crowd and carrying our banners.

Not only was it great to be having fun and representing the group, but it was wonderful to see other artists and local independent businesses! Some of my favorites were Lucinda's, Tribal Reflections Bellydance, and the peeps who make Chicken Poop Lip Junk!! (Which, by the way, contains no poop.) ;)

Enjoy these pics--since I was actually IN the parade, I only got one or two of us in action, but here are some images of us having fun before and after. :)

Oh....and be sure to come see us next year! xoxo

CRAFT EXTRAVAGANZA is Tomorrow!!!

2010-04-16T13:31:00.002-05:00

Ahhh!! I am still hustling to get myself ready for our Craft Extravaganza Spring Parking Lot Sale, which is TOMORROW!!!!

Please join us on Saturday, April 17th for some great crafts-- ALL handmade here in Kansas, absolutely no sweatshop labor. There will be pottery, sculpture, paintings, jewelry and accessories, and more. And I can also tell you that these artists' works are unique AND high quality.

So come by and see us tomorrow from 9am till 1pm at the Secret Gallery in Wichita, Kansas, located on the northeast corner of 2nd and Meridian (street address is 300 N. Meridian.)

xo,

Leanne

folk.etsy.com

Be Sure to Wear Your Green!

2010-03-01T11:47:00.005-06:00

Ooooh, it's MARCH!!!!

Do you know what that means?

Daylight savings time begins. More light. The first day of Spring--which hopefully means warmer weather. Gardening. And of course, St. Patrick's Day...

ST. PATRICK'S DAY!? YES!

And along with St. Patrick's Day comes Historic Delano's 4th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade! I am completely crazy about parades. I don't know why. They never fascinated me when I was a kid, really, but in recent years, I have grown to love them.

So does this really have much to do with us? Of course! We at Wichita Handmade will be marching in the parade on Saturday, March 13 at noon, and showing off our crafty pride. Come see us! We will be handing out a variety of giveaways and goodies to the crowd! The parade travels down Douglas, between McLean and Walnut.

Joys of Spring, Part One

2010-02-16T10:17:00.005-06:00

I've got Spring Fever and I don't care who knows it!!

Okay, so technically, it' not spring yet. And it's still bitter cold out. But hey, we all know it's coming!

And with it comes the gardening season, my absolute most favorite time of the year. I not only love to garden myself, but when summer comes, I also love going to farmers' markets and buying what I don't have, but need, from other local growers.

Some may think this doesn't have a whole lot to do with "handmade," but it really does. Growing local, organic food means self-sufficiency, sustainability, independence...a lot like crafting! By producing your own food, you create more options--no more scavenging through the produce bins at Walmart hoping to find the least-damaged tomato. The tomato you grow in your backyard hasn't traveled 2000 miles to get to you. And YOU can control what chemicals are--or, more importantly, aren't--used in its cultivation!

As much as I love gardening, I still consider myself a novice and rely on my mom for a lot of information. So I may wait until a later post to tell you HOW to garden. (And since we do have a weeee bit of time left before market season, I do hope to have more posts on this.) But for now, here are some markets you should definitely visit when summer is here!! {Click each link for more information}

Kansas Grown Market: this is one of my favorite markets. Selling lots of produce and some nice crafted goods, as well. They hold market in both west and east Wichita, and in Derby.

Delano Community Farmers Market: opening for the first time this year! (I am really looking forward to seeing how this does!)

Old Town Farmers' Market: this cozy little market downtown has a fabulous atmosphere! Fresh produce and other food, along with more handmade goods than most markets in the area. I have found quite a few treasures here!

These are the major ones in Wichita. But there are MANY more in Kansas! Please check this website for a large listing:

KS Farmers Markets

And if you're on facebook, become a fan of Savor the Season: Eating by the Calendar in Kansas

Whitney West Bags!!

2010-02-10T12:32:00.003-06:00

I was recently introduced to these great burlap purses and I just ADORE them!

I love when items are re-purposed into something stylish and functional.

Whitney is a local artist who up-cycles authentic burlap coffee bags into unique purses, pillows, and home accessories. Most items are accented with the softest of leathers.

So go and check out her Website or her Etsy shop!

You can also find her treasures locally at
The Spice Merchant and Douglas Photo.

Pincushion Swap!

2010-02-04T16:54:00.004-06:00

Lovebird Pincushion by feltmates

Red Zinnia by TheDailyPincushion

Red, Yellow and Teal Bottle Cap Pincushion by upthecreek

I've been collecting pincushions since I bought my very first one back when I discovered Etsy over three years ago. So far, I've only collected handmade ones, and frankly, it'll probably stay that way! I love the way that these essentially utilitarian objects are adorned and decorated so beautifully. There are such a variety of styles and looks. I could keep collecting them for years and not get bored!

To help grow my collection and, hopefully, add some variety to it, I'm hosting my very first Pretty, Pretty Pincushion swap over on Swap-Bot! I'll make a pincushion and send it off to my partner, and I'll be the lucky recipient of a handmade pincushion from my partner! If you're a pincushion lover, you're welcome to join us!

A Lovely Day

2010-02-03T12:20:00.000-06:00

Breakfast with 6 of my favorite people

3 of which are super cuties

Rock out a new scarf/necklace thingy

Be featured on CRAFT GOSSIP

you CAN buy love

2010-02-01T10:23:00.000-06:00

Lovely Local Finds!
Add a little handmade love to your life, just in time for Valentine's Day

1. Artisan Hammered Silver Heart Necklace
2. Brass Heart & Pearl earrings
3. Red Hot Swarovski Crystal Earrings
4 XOXO Hair Clips
5. Sweet Pea Soy Candle
6. Red Flower Applique Pleated Purse

FreeNeedle

2010-01-15T09:02:00.000-06:00

Do you like to craft, sew, paint, construct, and create?
Check out this great site for over
1,500 FREE TUTORIALS!

HELLO 2010, HELLO WICHITA!

2010-01-13T11:46:00.005-06:00

It's been a while!!

After...uh...months of not blogging, we have a couple things to say! (I promise, I'll try to not drag it out.) ;)

The first WH meeting of the new year was held last night, and boy did we take care of business. Here are some upcoming events that we hope to see you at!

February's meeting will be a special workshop for Etsy sellers. Focus: shop identity. It would be a great time for new and seasoned Etsians alike to pick up a few pointers or simply share your knowledge with someone else.
March holds the exciting St. Patrick's Day Parade in Historic Delano; check out our awesomeness Saturday the 13th at noon! {our pictures from last year...}
In April we will have a parking lot craft sale at the Secret Gallery, and admission is FREE.

We will have more workshops and events where we bring craft to the public, so be sure to follow us and stay updated!

Become a fan on facebook!

Hope to see you soon. :)

Kansas Krafts

2009-09-17T22:26:00.006-05:00

Right now, the Kansas State Fair is in full force. While there are a variety of attractions to suit many different tastes, the things that steal my heart are--of course--craft-related! I loved looking at the sweet and fuzzy animals that give us glorious wool, was thrilled when I saw someone actually dying or spinning yarn, and longed for the days when flour came in cloth bags.

I would have loved to get more pictures, but was busy taking it all in. I hope you enjoy what I have!

Fresh-cut wool...

Spinning!

Vintage flour sack quilt

Can you believe this is an actual CAKE?! I wouldn't dare ruin it by eating!

More luscious yarn...

Lovely and intricate quilt

Painting yarn!

A sculpture...made from butter.

We have a WINNER!

2009-09-10T21:20:00.002-05:00

Yes. It's a few days late, but that's just for the announcement. The winner was determined a few days ago. I am just now getting through my long TO DO list and gotta get this announced so the winner can claim their prize first by telling me what size they want!

So without further ado.....

And the winner is.....

Kylie!

Congratulations! Please let me know what size you want and your favorite color in an e-mail to emilyhoutz@hotmail.com

But wait.....

What's this? We have a runner up?

The runner up gets a surprise prize, but will still need to tell me your size and favorite color.

And just who is this lucky sun of a gun?

.....Bridget!

Congratulations to you both. Please e-mail me ASAP with the information requested above and contact information such as a mailing address.

Thanks for playing!

CONTEST ANYONE?

2009-08-25T08:21:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I've been a Summer Blogger Slacker! Sorry! But I am coming back with some good news for YOU- a contest. A contest where you can WIN something! Running through September 8, anyone who makes a comment below gets an entry. Repeat entries will NOT be accepted. It's as easy as that! Good luck!

So what IS the prize? I thought you'd never ask: an official Wichita Handmade t-shirt! yay! All the cool kids are wearing one. You will be able to choose your adult size. So tell your friends to comment below and later steal their shirt if they win.

A Taste of Knit Tagging

2009-08-20T09:17:00.005-05:00

Yay!

This is what we want to do. What a fun way to "beautify" and get our message of awesomeness out. Soon, the streets of Wichita will be bedecked with all manner of colorful stitches...it's just a matter of when...mwah ha ha ha ha!!!

(And if that video didn't provide enough color for you...enter to win this week's giveaway on Folk Craft! Three, count 'em, THREE, lucky winners will be drawn sometime on Saturday, August 22nd. See the site for details!!)

Links & Links

2009-07-30T12:46:00.006-05:00

Could I get a cornier title?

I have two things for you in today's post.

Part Un: Links, as in jewelry links.

I made some cute jewelry holders that I wanted to share!! I think they're pretty cute, anyway, especially considering I possess little talent in the area of constructing things from wood and nails...although this particular project couldn't be more elementary.

To make these, I purchased some plain wood plaques, which can be found at Hobby Lobby or Michaels, but if you have a local independent craft store who carries them, be sure to support their business and get your plaque(s) there! Then, I hammered some short nails along the bottom and also few at the top. Once you've done this, you will need to decide how you want to hang these; I used some parts found in a framing kit (unfortunately I don't know what those "parts" are called). Then, paint! I kept it simple with two colors: something for the background, and then a color for the bird silhouette. I freehanded these, but you can also draw your design out first, lightly with a pencil, and the paint should cover it up.

Part Deux: Links! (To websites!)

Here are a few helpful/interesting/fun links I have found on my many adventures through the internets.

For Etsy Sellers:

Craftopolis: Easily find out if you are featured in any current treasuries! (thank you for finding that, Mandi!)

Craft Cult/Heart-o-matic: See who hearts your shop, your items, and find out if you have recently been featured in gift guides/the front page!

Etsy Resources: Ever wonder where people get those adorable Etsy graphics? Sale banners? Vacation Avatars? Here's the place!

For every Crafter:

COLOURLovers: If you love color, this is the place for you! Great resource for graphic designers.

Craftster: Don't TELL me you don't know this one!

CRAFT: : This is the site of the Magazine, Craft:. And it has a lot of stuff to explore. :)

Fabric.com: I buy most of my fabric in town, but if I'm ordering online, it will probably be from this place. And you must check out their eco-friendly fabrics! And their bamboo fabric? Oooh so soft!

Spoonflower: This is the place to have your very own design printed onto high-quality fabric. I have yet to purchase any, but I know this place is gaining a lot of popularity in the craft world.

Thanks for reading and hope you enjoyed my tidbits!

CRAFT ON!

Leanne

folkcraft.blogspot.com

Hand-Make with Handmade Supplies!

2009-07-23T16:16:00.002-05:00

Sometimes--not ALWAYS, but sometimes--I can be a little stubborn. I have been known to see a piece of clothing or jewelry or whatever else, and think, hey, why buy that when I could make that myself!? (Of course, it's a little different when we're talking about handmade goods, every one of which I consider a work of art, and I am more than happy to actually purchase something that a craftsperson has actually made, from his own creative genius and with his very own hands!!) But anywaaaayyy.....if you're stubborn like me, and want to d.i.y., (do it yourself), and yet STILL want to support other makers, gaze upon these handmade supplies and let the inspiration take over!

Let's start things off with some spinning!! Lovely wool by hedgehogfibres

Cute as a button...by aimoobaroo

Gorgeous glass beads, created for you by RoaLampworkBeads

Silk cord for that next jewelry project... ericawalker

I looooove mushrooms! And I love fabric! How great is this?! By cicadastudio

Luscious yarn, by artisanacre

Isn't this little guy precious? Baby gnome stamp, hand carved for you by Corrabelle

This could be used for so many things! Pencils, knitting needles, crochet hooks.....by BellflowerTextiles

This darling apron from momfetti should keep you neat!

Hope you've enjoyed my Etsy finds today!

Craft on!

Leanne

folkcraft.blogspot.com

Folk Craft Giveaway! or, Win a Sweeeet Clutch!

2009-07-22T23:27:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is my day to blog, but I wanted to let everyone in on the giveaway Leanne is having down at Folk Craft! Entering is easy, and the prize is super neat. :)

Click here for details!

Happy 1st Anniversary, FOLK!

2009-07-14T22:05:00.004-05:00

{ Or, as I often call it, Shameless Self-Promotion... }

I am so sorry that I have missed TWO weeks, now, of blogging for Wichita Handmade. I'm terrible, I know. Forgive me! And forgive me also for not having much more substance than an ad...but hey, any port in a storm, right? You need an entry, and this is what I got. (I've been on "vacation," you know!) ;)

Next Wednesday, July 22, 2009 is Folk's 1st Anniversary! Yay! And in honor of that anniversary, I am having a big sale! Some "Anniversary Sale" items are priced ridiculously low. There are also other items in the shop that have been on sale for a while, and still a bargain. Help me reach 200 sales by next Wednesday, and own some adorable, lovingly handmade folk gear as well! :)

Here are a few of the lovely, low-priced items:

Whipped Cream Ruffled and Reclaimed Top, $30

Ms. Green Jeans Clutch, $7

Lemonade Coasters, $6

Mexican Parrot Silk Cuff, $12

Orientale Clutch w/Vintage Buttons, $16

Ella Steampunk Cuffs w/Organic Cotton Lining, $17

Gretel Folklore Pouch w/Silk Strap, $9

Down the Rabbit Hole...and Out Again!

2009-06-25T09:54:00.005-05:00

For my post today, I am offering up some sweet Etsy finds. (I am too lazy to write, and plus I will use any excuse to virtually window shop!) ;) However, I thought I'd try to make things a little interesting; there will be no theme, per se, but each find will be in some way connected to the previous....let's see how things go!

My inspiration for this all begins with Alice in Wonderland...

...a red and black Mad Hatter painting by RW2Gallery

...leads to this red and black bracelet by lupin

...and a search for more bracelets lead me to this fabulous, reclaimed/recycled/repurposed crochet bracelet by fantasticplastics!

...so I searched for more "reclaimed" items, and found a mini zen garden by aimeesarmoire; (what a cool concept!)

...which leads up to lovely and unique yard art! by steelknightdesigns

...so in connection with the Asian theme, I found this gorgeous "Opium" bracelet by lilikoicottage.

searching for more "drug-related" items, I stumbled upon this adorable little necklace by starsprinklez!

...and this brings us full circle. :) a sweet print by thepoppytree.

Hope you enjoyed!!!

CRAFT ON!

Leanne

folkcraft.blogspot.com

Giveaway @ FolkCraft!

2009-06-23T10:27:00.003-05:00

I haven't checked in with my cohorts to see if there's a Wichita Handmade giveaway this week, buuuut...... there IS a giveaway at Folk Craft!

Check it out, y'all!

Thanks and take care!

Leanne

Say NO to Sweatshops

2009-06-18T11:38:00.003-05:00

Reasons #173 to buy handmade*:

Imports suck!

Yes, I may have mentioned this once...or twice....or 50 times. But it's so true. Imports from China (and other assorted countries) may be cheap, but they are going to cost in the long run; and they are costing some people right now.

It's no secret that most manufactures use child labor. And it's no secret that the working conditions are atrocious. People working in the factories, whether they are children or adults, are underpaid and overworked. My neighbor, who is from Cambodia, says that her cousin in Cambodia is paid $0.75 per hour at the factory where he works. And that's not the worst!

Of course, I have seen the phrase "Responsibly made in China" stamped onto products. This may or may not be true. But, even when working conditions are good, the money you spend on a Chinese import is money that is being drained from our economy.

I know that it is sometimes impossible to find and item manufactured in the USA. I myself have searched for particular items and have not found a one that wasn't made in China. It's a sad reality.

HOWEVER--if you can buy an item that is made here, and preferably handmade, do it! You won't be sorry. You can feel good about supporting people within your community. And you can feel good about having something unique, well-made, beautiful, or all of the above.

I hate to have this sound like a commercial for Wichita Handmade. It isn't. This is a call to take positive action. Please, be a responsible consumer! Buy handmade, whether it's from me, my friends, crafters in your community, or any of the other millions of good folks on Etsy.

Lovely pillow found on Etsy, handmade for you by FennelStudio!

Craft on!

Leanne

folkcraft.blogspot.com

*There may need to be some clarification about the term handmade; when I say handmade, I am referring to items created by artisans, who create items because they want to.

Island of Misfit Crafts

2009-06-15T16:02:00.005-05:00

As a crafter, I spend a lot of time making stuff, and, obviously, that stuff doesn't always turn out just the way I planned. Sometimes, that's because I'm working on something new and have to figure out all the quirks and work out the bugs. Other times, it's because I'm not paying attention and I muck it all up! Case in point, the potholder I made on Friday evening as a gift for a friend.

That's "Exhibit A" there on the left. Pretty quilted potholder with a big blank field of blue! For some reason, it didn't register with me that I needed to add the embroidery before I sewed the whole thing together. Never mind that this is the fourth time I have made this particular potholder. Yep! I got to start over and make another potholder! That's it on the right, just so you know what it should really look like!

Anyway, the question is always what to do with these poor misfit crafts! The misfit potholder went to my kitchen to serve as a constant reminder that the embroidery is the middle step and not the last one! I also have a patchwork puppy on my couch. He taught me the not-so-good way to stitch up a puppy after stuffing him. I've also got a host of bags that I ran out of fabric on or forgot to put in the pockets or fastener.

Some of these pieces are given away; some are bad enough to be pitched in the trash. Most of them stay in my house - The Island of Misfit Crafts.

Emily's Tool Box #2

2009-06-15T08:38:00.001-05:00

This week's tool is... is... well I don't know that it has a name. My figure painting teacher used one and told us how to make our own. I call it a "pouncer" and don't ask me why, except maybe it's because he said his daughter like to POP him on the head with it. Simply it is a long dowel with some pantyhose on one end, held on with rubber bands. The dowel acts as a resting place for your wrist to avoid laying your hand in wet paint. It helps steady my shaking hands as I paint fine details. The pad (pantyhose) on the end keeps the dowel from scratching the surface of the painting. Another simple, but handy tool I created myself and use all the time.

Trinket Tuesday WINNER!

2009-06-12T15:19:00.003-05:00

SHILOH
YOU WIN!

This set of Fire Cracker Pony O's are yours. Enjoy this piece of Wichita and think of us when you see them!
Congratulations and thanks for entering!
Be sure to check back next week to see what Wichita Handmade has to offer!

Stitch like you know how.

2009-06-11T10:17:00.011-05:00

Recently, I've been obsessed with crocheting baskets to use around the house. My first one was made with a giant hook and strips of cotton scraps; the result is a fabric that is thick enough to stand up well enough on its own and hold my current needlework projects. Now I'm working on a couple wool ones that will be felted (or "fulled") in the washer. And the crazy thing is that I don't know how to crochet!!

Okay...technically--or perhaps not-so-technically--I guess I do know how to crochet, or I wouldn't be doing it...but I don't know the right way to crochet. I don't think I'm making the stitches in the...ahem..."standard" way. I can't read a crochet pattern. All I know is that I'm pulling one loop through another loop. But you know what? It works! I'm accomplishing what I want, and that is to create a basket-shape piece of fabric.

When people are hesitant to try new things, I think that many times it's because they are afraid they'll do it the "wrong" way. Granted, there are some things that must be in a certain way, like, you know, performing surgery or repairing your car. However, this is not the case with crafting!

When it comes to crafts and the arts, I would definitely say that the end justifies the means. There may be an easier or more conventional way to do something, but it's all up to the artist. There is no cosmic rule that says "paint must be applied in this way," "your stitches must look like this," or "you must use this fabric." Though there are some people who might say these things, the craft gods aren't waiting to strike you down if one of these "rules" are broken.

Think about the very first artists. The people who invented knitting, weaving, the ones who did the first paintings on a cave wall. The first artists certainly didn't have anyone tell THEM what to do, nor did they have any training! They made it up, and it was alright. It was more than alright, in fact, it was the beginning of ART!

So to make a long rant short: when it comes to crafts, art, and creativity in general, do what you feel like doing. Some projects might not turn out as well as you expected. This is how we learn! And, on the other hand, you may stumble upon something original and completely fabulous.

Craft on!

Leanne

folkcraft.blogspot.com

PS--Folk Craft is having a giveaway! Check out the Folk Craft blog

and enter; a winner will be drawn on Friday, June 19th.

Trinket Tuesday GIVEAWAY

2009-06-09T08:19:00.016-05:00

This Gorgeous Set of
FIRE CRACKER PONY 'S
Could be yours!

How to ENTER?
Leave a comment letting me know you want it
want ANOTHER entry?
"Follow" this blog. Add yourself over on the right sidebar
(Already are? You're automatically entered in, Just remind me)
Want to be added in again?
Make a post about this giveaway on your own blog with a link
(be sure to let me know)

Okay, another 5 entries?!?!

Go on over to Ribbon Candy and browse around for a while and pick your very favorite item in her shop. Tell me your favorite with a link in a comment.
********************************
Winner is chosen through a random number generator
The giveaway closes on FRIDAY, June 5th!
********************************
Would you like to be a sponsor for Trinket Tuesday? Email me !

Trinket Tuesday WINNER!

2009-06-05T15:52:00.004-05:00

SARASOPHIA
YOU WIN!
tout-est-des-roses.blogspot.com
This adorable little Apron is yours. Enjoy this piece of Wichita and think of us when you are whipping up those cherry pies!
Congratulations and thanks for entering!
Be sure to check back next week to see what Wichita Handmade has to offer!

People Who Aren't in the Group (YET...) ;)

2009-06-04T15:44:00.006-05:00

Naturally, the first thing I think of when I want to buy something locally handmade is--say it with me--Wichita Handmade!!

But...there isn't anyone in the group yet that offers local wool. (Or any wool, for that matter.) Then I realize that there are other craftspeople in the area who may not have an etsy shop, and therefore, aren't in the group...yet.

Here are some Kansas goodies that you haven't seen at Wichita Handmade...YET!!!

Head down to Historic Delano and there you will find a lil' yarn shop called Twist; inside, the walls are lined with skein after skein of magically delicious yarns! And there, you will also find bags of lovely, unspun wool, waiting to be made into lovely, knittable filament, courtesy of Naked Pines Ranch. [I am currently working through a bag of luscious brown alpaca...]

If you're looking for something new, check out the Mosley Street Market. This hidden gem is located at 312 N. Mosley; the format is similar to a flea market, and the shops are varied. There are a few sellers who deal mainly in mass-produced wares, but there are also quite a few who sell their handmade items.

This is the first lovely I bought from the market, and I am so sad to say that I did not find out the name of the lady who makes these cute wallets, pouches, and purses. But she was sewing when I purchased it!

I also bought a soy lotion candle [scent: Cool Rain] from Good Stuff Inc., and my mom found some great hand cream there, too. (And this cream--it works soooo much better than anything from a department store!)

These are just a few examples of the sweet handmade things you can find here in Wichita. There are many more, and I will no doubt keep you updated on the crafty goodness in posts to come.

Peace out!

Leanne

{Folk.etsy.com and SugarPickle.etsy.com}

Trinket Tuesday GIVEAWAY

2009-06-02T16:18:00.010-05:00

It's Time for a GIVEAWAY!

This Gorgeous Apron Could be yours!
How to ENTER?
Leave a comment letting me know you want it
want ANOTHER entry?
"Follow" this blog. Add yourself over on the right sidebar
(Already are? You're automatically entered in, Just remind me)

Want to be added in again?
Make a post about this giveaway on your own blog with a link

Okay, another 5 entries?!?!

Go on over to Ribbon Candy and browse around for a while and pick your very favorite item in her shop. Tell me your favorite in a comment.
********************************
Winner is choosen through a random number generator
The giveaway closes on FRIDAY, June 5th at High Noon

Emily's Tool Box #1

2009-06-01T16:56:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the first in a series where I will highlight a tool I use in my various arts. Part of why I enjoy making things is being able to use all the coolest tools to make making things easier and more efficient. Sometimes I feel I have too many tools, but I wouldn't want to be caught without one that I need. I love shopping for, looking at, creating, and using new tools. Some tools are works of art in themselves. I really enjoy tools and I think as fellow creative individuals we may share this appreciation for THE RIGHT TOOL.

This week's tool is the BEVEL TOOL. I had seen one in a catalog and could've ordered it from China, but thought I could make one just as easy. So that's what I did. I have actually sold quite a few of these at Wichita Pottery where they have all sorts of clay classes.

Okay, so what does it do? Well I gave you a hint a second ago. It is used for clay, specifically slab building. When building things with slabs in clay, you often need to join two slabs either at a corner or butting them together. However, the joint is much stronger if is an angled cut rather than a straight one. So this is where the BEVEL TOOL comes in. It makes straight cuts and bevels them by simply sliding this tool along the side of the slab. The wire is mounted at an angle which cuts the clay. The shell on top of the tool is to add tension to the line and is merely slipped in.

If you want a BEVEL TOOL of your own without having to make it, visit Wichita Pottery.

I would love to hear about your favorite tool. Maybe I will highlight it in a future post!

The Blues...

2009-05-28T22:05:00.002-05:00

Some lovely Etsy finds, because it's my day to blog and I cannot think right now....

SASessories.etsy.com

pearberry.etsy.com

amaricemills.etsy.com

lilfishstudios.etsy.com

SimonandRuby.etsy.com

Mend & Make Do! (Just like the British circa World War II....)

2009-05-21T19:30:00.008-05:00

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

2009-05-20T20:12:00.002-05:00

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!

What a Blast!

2009-05-14T18:25:00.008-05:00

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!)

Folk/Sugarpickle and justpuff.etsy.com posing with their awesome friends!

leandrageorge.etsy.com is hiding behind her gorgeous housewares!

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!

emilyhoutz.etsy.com's gallery-worthy oil paintings sit out in the "Yard Gallery" :)

jillhoutz.etsy.com was inside away from the cold! But what lovely pottery.

shellystout.etsy.com: ribbon candy & eye candy, too!

"Crumbly is Good"

2009-04-29T08:04:00.005-05:00

I love this blog! As I was laying in bed last night and not sleeping, I realized how much I love this blog. I have a personal blog that friends, family, and a few random strangers from around the world read, but this blog is different. I realized I like this blog because for the most part the readers, have lived in, been to, or just plain love WICHITA! I feel such a connection to the readers. It's nice to be in the company of those who know "crumbly is good" and how to properly pronounce "arKANSAS" river.

All of this got me thinking, WHY DO YOU LOVE WICHITA?
I'm working on a little project and I need to know what your favorite places in Wichita are. Do you know where to get the best burger, or where a fabulous little shop is, whats your favorite late nite HOT spot...........ect.
Please list a much as you like!
I can't wait to discover why you love Wichita!

2009-04-27T11:11:00.002-05:00

Wichita Handmade DISCOUNT for YOU!

2009-04-19T15:49:00.007-05:00

Thanks for supporting Wichita Handmade!

HERE IS A DEAL JUST FOR YOU!

Lil' Miss Independence Ultimate Bandana Dress and Headband set!

I personally designed this dress to be OH SO CUTE, and fit just right. It is made from lightweight cotton bandanas and matching ribbon ties at the shoulder.

Dress Fits approx. 18M to 5T;
Can be worn as a Dress, Swimsuit cover up or tunic style top.

Perfect for those hot summer days!

Mention: "WICHITA HANDMADE" in the details when you order a Lil' Miss independence Dress and Headband set, and receive $5.00 OFF!

Happy Shopping to you!

St. Pats Parade!

2009-04-06T11:27:00.001-05:00

I love a parade, truly I do.

In fact, for me, parades rank right up there with designing, sewing, and dressing up in beautiful, ridiculous, and/or flamboyant costumes (depending on the occasion, of course.) And, when you think of it, don't all those things go hand in hand with parades?! Well, at least, when you're the one marching down the street.

The Delano District St. Patrick's Day parade, held on Saturday, March 14th, 2009, was an excellent way for Wichita Handmade to make its splash!

The day was glorious: sunny, not uncomfortably cool, and not too windy, even for my sail-like wings. Though I arrived later than the rest of the group, just hanging out in the parking lot before the parade began was fun. The atmosphere took on a circus-like air as we mingled with clowns, bellydancers, furry and feathered critters, bikers, and--my personal favorite--leprechauns!

But, the best part, of course, is walking the parade route and seeing all the wonderful citizens of Wichita who came to see us! Our "float" consisted of a truck that displayed our hand-painted signs, lovely members of our group who donned green and picket signs ("Buy Local, Buy Handmade!"), a darling dancing girl with bells, a very un-scary leprechaun, and....um...that weirdo in the gold spandex. ;)

As a special treat, we distributed clay shamrocks to spectators, which were printed with our website address. They hung on chords so that they could be worn around the neck, or displayed elsewhere.

Everyone was very responsive. Several members of our group noticed spectators commenting positively on our float or trying to jot down our name. It is so wonderful to be part of a movement that not only promotes art, but encourages people to care about where their goods come from and how they are made. It is a strengthening of economy and community that we need not only in "these times," but always.

-Leanne
Folk.etsy.com
SugarPickle.etsy.com

Introducing...

2009-04-06T11:26:00.000-05:00

Hello!

We are Wichita Handmade, a group of Wichita artisans who individually sell their creations on etsy.com. Together we work to promote ourselves, buying local, and buy handmade. Visitors to our site are invited to browse each shop individually or watch the blogs or featured seller section for unique, handmade items. Also, local artisans are invited to join etsy to sell their creations and join our group to help promote it.