Posted by mandarific on Oct 27, 2009 in
Featured Artists I’ve been considering getting into jewelry making as of late, so my “research” has led me through all variety of Etsy shops as well as a stroll through Michael’s. One of my favorite artists I’ve stumbled upon uses a unique “metal clay” to create interesting beads with powerful images inspired by cultural influences such as the American West and Japanese art. “Hint” even makes a visual reference of inspiration in her blog, showing the creative process behind why she chooses the imagery that she does.
Beth’s “Home Harvest” necklace is one of her latest pieces and you can almost feel the autumn breeze in the air- the citrine colors give off the warm glow of fallen leaves to accent the hand-crafted silver beadwork.
Though her assembled jewelry can be a bit pricey, the handcrafted beads range in affordable prices to accent your own handicrafts and bring together any project. From clever fall designs to adorable “anytime” styles, she has over a hundred beads to choose from – all created with the same metal clay firing technique.
As noted in her Etsy Shop, Hint also gives back with each purchase by giving to non-profit organizations that help make a difference in today’s world. For more information on the causes that benefit from Hint’s work, check out her Love Dogs blog. We’re glad to see someone who does such beautiful craft giving to help those who need it!
Tags: beads, causes, crafts, jewelry, metals, sculpture, wearables
Posted by mandarific on Oct 25, 2009 in
Featured Artists I had the opportunity a few weekends ago to check out the Fall Grassroots Festival at Shakori Hills, a largely eco-friendly music festival that attracts all manner of earth-loving, crafty, inventive folks. I blew entirely too much money at nearly all of the arts stalls, but the Holston Mountain Hat Project was easily one of my favorite vendors.
Hailing from Holston Mountain, Tennessee, these folks knit up handmade wool hats for projects such as UNICEF, orphanages, and battered womens shelters. Their teeny newborn hats have gone all the way to Hungary and Albania, and back home they’ve been sent to cancer victims and those suffering from hair loss. Way cool!
The hats aren’t just for a good cause – they fund the project by selling hats to us average folks who just can’t get enough of the cuddly knit wear this season. They predominantly sell their work through festivals, but the hats are very affordable – my fiancé picked out a red and black “aviator” style hat for under $20. The hats are guaranteed too – if it’s ever damaged, just send it back and they fix it for you.
The knitters are regulars to Shakori Hills, so if you’re looking to check out their stall in person and will be in the North Carolina area in April of 2010, you may want to check them out. You can also send them an email at holstonhats@yahoo.com – they can do even the most detailed custom requests.
As for my big purchase, I gave in to a set of scrap-yarn hair ties: totally adorable and a great DIY or gift idea, I was proud to add them to my wardrobe! They’re a little long for practical use, but I think they’re going to serve well for special occasions, hooping, and the usual festival festivities.
Know where we can find some more neat knits for the cool weather? Share some info in the comments!
Tags: causes, crafts, hats, knit, wearables
