The Blues...

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....)

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

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!

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"

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!

Wichita Handmade DISCOUNT for YOU!

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!