Boston Handmade

Fashionable Wanderings, Newbury Street, Boston

2012-02-02T10:25:00.001-05:00

The other day, I was headed into Boston for a haircut and lunch date. I decided to go in early and take some time to photograph the Back Bay. I am always looking for funky windows on Newbury street. For a photographer, Newbury streets offer a wide variety of windows, buildings, and displays to shoot. I always find something interesting.

For more photos check out my blog!

New T-Shirts: Dove and Bear

2012-02-01T16:52:00.002-05:00

by An Li Liu of An Li Liu

Okee, so here are a couple of new shirt designs I’ve been printing up this week. I’ve been exploring designs that don’t involve hand-cut stencils for a few reasons – one of which is the repetitive stress in my hands and elbows that I’ve been experiencing with cutting detailed images in thick acetate. Thanks to Evan of Evan Webster Ink for helping me out with my screens!

Look for Raindrop Dove and A Bear and Two Mountains in my online shop, and they’ll be at Sarida in Roslindale, MA, and Craftland in Providence, RI in the next couple weeks.

Learn Basic Embroidery

2012-01-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Sharon Fischer of Stray Notions

On February 27 I will be teaching an intro to basic embroidery class at the Boston Center for Adult Education. We'll take inspiration from traditional stitch samplers to create a tea towel or wall hanging. There is still room for a few more in the class. Hope to see you.

Monday Mosaic: Winter Warmth

2012-01-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

1. "First Snowfall" Needle Felted Winter Scene , by Cozy Cottage Creations
2. Scarf - reclaimed fabrics in shades of blue , by Stray Notions
3. Chunky Cowl with Flower Brooch , by Elizabeth Brennick Designs
4. Harvest Scarf , by Reclaimed to You
5. Brownie-128 yards of Black Welsh Mtn. Top , by Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Designs
6. Snow Birds North Square 8x10 Photo Print by Lucie Wicker Photography

New Orleans Night

2012-01-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

Whew! I just returned from almost a week in New Orleans feeling refreshed, recharged, and inspired. When we got in around nine and headed straight to Bourbon Street. It was overwhelming after a long day of travel and I could see how it would get old fast but I loved all of the energy and craziness block after block.

No age discrimination on Bourbon St

Yes please.

Beads!

Stay Warm with Etsy!

2012-01-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Leah of cricicis design

I have been coming across some really adorable cold-weather accessories on Etsy recently and had to share. Some great ones are from our own Boston Handmade members- but there are a ton of handmade mittens, scarves, blankets, and more available. So check 'em out before spring comes along!

reversible fingerless gloves by White Noise Maker

peppermint stripe scarf by Boston Handmade member Jessica Burko
(aka Reclaimed To You)

rainbow cotton crochet blanket by rocket and bear

ivory gloves by Stylish Knitting

And if you want to do some knitting yourself, check out this beautiful merino wool from Boston Handmade member Diane Ivey (aka Lady Dye)! What are your favorite cold-weather accessories to brighten up your winter wardrobe?

Doing it Big!

2012-01-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Diane of Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design

Yes...doing it BIG is what Lady Dye is doing. I am thrilled to be able to create some amazing hair pins and headbands with my hand-dyed and hand-spun yarns. For a while I have been contemplating how to expand my fiber arts business and as a woman with this amazing Afro :) I found it suiting to expand into hair accessories for women and men from all different backgrounds who are not only proud of their hair but believe in my new hair motto: the BIGGER. the BOLDER. the BETTER!

About six years ago, I made the decision to go natural with my hair and I have not looked back. It was one of the best decision I have made in my life and I feel true and honest with myself and confident in my own identity. I want other women and men to feel the same way. Besides, I sometimes feel our society has been so conservative when it comes to what's acceptable for hair accessories. Lady Dye is here to say yes! It's acceptable to have knitted decorations in your hair! From one big hair to the other!

Nature Inspires and Challenges

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Jen Parrish of Parrish Relics

I had a very abrupt and major change recently that made me re-evaluate what was important in my life, what I wanted more of. I get so much joy just being in nature, walking hiking paths through the many green places in our area, even in the winter there is beauty to be found.

Hiking with a group recently in the Middlesex Fells, I found new paths, faced and conquered a great fear of heights.

What it Inspired: Leaves of Stained Glass

I would highly recommend utilizing Meet Up Groups as a great resource of finding new adventures. A recent outing to my favorite Audubon Sanctuary for a Wolf Moon hike in the dim light of the moon was an experience I will never forget. Seeing deer at rest, beavers swimming, silently soaring owls and hearing coyotes howl with a great group of people and exploring the park normally closed at night with a very knowledgeable leader was such a privilege. The exercise is an added bonus! I am not brave enough to venture out in the deep snow or extreme cold, but I will be watching the weather for the next mild day to get out once again.

Standard Magazine

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Karen Mahoney of City by the Sea Ceramics

Standard Magazine is a super nice magazine and as they put it "every page of every issue reflects our high standards of sustainability". I was approached by the magazine to feature one of my sawdust fired cups and the issue is out now! Issues of Standard are available in print, and you can also view the issue online. Check out my cup on page 29 of the Winter Adventure 2012 issue.

Coming this Spring…

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

by An Li Liu of An Li Liu

I know it’s been an unusually mild winter, but with the recent cold temperatures and brisk wind, I’m already longing for warmer weather. I checked my mail yesterday and happened upon a wee package with some samples of my spring-like note card that is being published by Calypso Art Editions Cards right here in Massachusetts.

Keep an eye out for it this spring at retailers nation-wide!

Oh, and I have been a busy bee working away on new shirt designs, so I’ll post pictures as soon as I can!

Monday Mosaic: The Year of the Dragon

2012-01-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

1. No Monster Sign , by Hibou Designs
2. Hummingbird T shirt on Red , by An Li Studio
3. Carousel Dreams Boston 8x10 Matted Photograph , by Kerry Hawkins Photography
4. Red chairs notecard , by cricicis design
5. Embroidered necklace "You are my sunshine" , by Stray Notions
6. Inman SQRZ T , by Evan Webster Ink
7. Clover Bracelet with Garnet and CZ , by Cristina Hurley Jewelry
8. Collage mixedmedia on wood with encaustic , by Reclaimed to You
9. Flower Pendant by nancyrosetta

Work in Progress: Kanzashi and Shisha Embroidered Hat

2012-01-22T07:00:00.004-05:00

by Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri of ElephunksTrunk

Creating miniature pillbox hats that sit off center on your head has become my new favorite millinery process. These tiny hats are held in place with a hat elastic that sits under your hair, and thus can be worn by anyone. They can be an elegant accessory or a platform for spunky decoration, depending on my mood. Here you can see my newest design in progress. I have built the pillbox frame out of buckram and wire, and am now working on the fabric that will cover the frame. In the past I have covered the frame with my chosen fabric, and then set about decorating it once the fabric is in place. By sewing the fabric and elastic on first, I can place the decorations on the hat while modeling it in front of the mirror. However, sewing flowers or feathers to a hat once the fabric is on the frame can be difficult. This time I am trying to decorate my fabric before placing it on the hat. This means that I have to trust my imagination and design skills to place things well without being able to try it on, but the construction process will be easier.

This particular mini-pillbox hat will be covered in shimmering silver dupoini silk. I have made a black silk kanzashi flower, which will feature a small mirror in the center. Kanzashi is a traditional Japanese art form in which fabric is folded and sewn into intricate flowers. Geisha often wore kazazhi in their hair. I like to combine different kinds of craft forms in my hat. My kanzashi flower will be anchored to my hat using a form of embroidery from India, called shisha, in which bits of mirror are sewn into the garment.

2012-01-21T07:00:00.003-05:00

By Arthur of Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics

Have you heard of the newest online community called Pinterest? If not then I am here to tell you about it! It a really great members-only (you have to be invited, wait for an invitation by a friend of your, or do what I did and wait like 3 days for the Pinterest people to invite you... I asked for an invite!) site where you make boards (could be anything, some of mine are ceramics, inspiration and men's fashion.) of images that you find online! I am constantly collecting images I find online for when that day FINALLY happens that I am a visiting artist somewhere and I have to give a power point presentation about my work which will include a sources section.

I love being able to post images that I find interesting and seeing what other people find interesting too! You also have the option to like, comment or repin. A few of us from Boston Handmade are on pintrest and you should follow us! Well there's me, Arthur Halvorsen, Jen Parrish, Leah Ammerman, Kerry Hawkins, Sharon Fischer, Allison Fraske, Karen Mahoney and of course Boston Handmade has our own pintrest boards you can follow! I think its a really get way to share what your looking at online for inspiration, you don't have to just pin photos that are existing online you can upload your own images as well! I just wanted to share a few of the photos that I have pinned! HAPPY PINNING!

Unique Home Organization Tips

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Jennifer T. by MaJenta Designs

Living in Boston, space is definitely a commodity... that's why I'm always looking out for better ways of organizing and storing things around the house.

Now that the holidays have ended, this is a clever idea by Martha Stewart on storing all your ornaments again, using tupperware and cups.

I like this Real Simple suggestion of repurposing jewelry boxes into helpful storage compartments in your catch-all drawer.

I love this idea by Better Homes & Gardens of using a wine rack to store some craft supplies.

This is my favorite storage idea from Country Living about upcycling an old dollhouse into a clever storage for laundry and bathroom supplies.

2012 Spring Color Trends

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Kerrie of Cody's Creations

The New Year is upon us what a better way to welcome the New Year than by shopping for supplies to make new items?

I was curious to see what the 2012 Spring Colors were so I consulted the Pantone Color Report, after all you want your pet to be in fashion as well don't you?

Tango Tangerine is the Color of the Year:

and for Spring, be on the lookout to see:

Bellflower

Cabaret

Cockatoo

Driftwood

Margarita

Sodalite Blue

Solar Power

Starfish

Sweet Lilac

I will be incorporating several of these colors into some new products, what color will you be most excited to see this spring?

5-minute Tasks for Social Media Greatness

2012-01-18T07:00:00.004-05:00

by Jessica Burko of Reclaimed to You

Those who know me know that I love Twitter and that I feel Facebook is a necessary evil. There, I said it.

Deciding what your relationship will be with social media is one thing, but maintaining and strengthening that relationship is a big commitment. I definitely encourage all of my marketing clients to start a blog, launch a Facebook page, or open a Twitter account, but I clarify that my advice is IF AND ONLY IF they pledge to actually keep the blog/tweets/Facebook updates current, vibrant, and interactive. This is my advice for any social media that a client of mine decides to undertake, and the primary reason for the advice is that if one starts down a social media path and then doesn't follow through it can become a stressful task on the to-do list, and can become more trouble than it's worth.

So how can you easily maintain a social media presence and actually have the effort work for you? Some great advice from arts marketing maven Alyson B. Stanfield is to spend only 5 minutes per day on social media tasks, and the regularity of the efforts will keep you updated, relevant, invested, and will also keep you out of the black hole that sometimes becomes social networking. Stanfield recently sent a list of "5-Minute Social Media Tasks" to her email subscriber list. Her advice: "The reasons for keeping such a list nearby are to remind you of little tasks that can have a big impact and to help you stay on task and not get sidetracked on these sites. Remember, just spend 5 minutes on these social media tasks, and then get back to work. You have bigger, more important things to accomplish."

• Upload a new image to your Facebook fan page and respond to comments on your page.

• Comment on Facebook pages where you want to be noticed (e.g. galleries, niche markets, and museums). Remember to comment as your page on other pages.

• If you haven’t switched over to the new timeline format on Facebook, read how: http://mashable.com/2011/12/15/facebook-timeline-how-to . It’s quick and painless, and it won’t be an option in the future, so you might as well join the party.

• Add an event or two to your timeline on Facebook – especially if it’s about your art.

• Share someone else’s blog post or article on Google+.

• Leave an insightful comment on someone else’s blog.

• Respond to comments on your blog.

• Recommend someone on LinkedIn and leave a recommendation on a business page on Facebook.

• Send a current Twitter update and retweet two others from your Twitter stream.

• Post-date three tweets using your favorite scheduling service, like HootSuite or TweetDeck.

• Review your profile on one of your social media sites. Can you freshen it up by adding a colorful word or deleting a ho-hum one?

• Streamline the photo albums on your Facebook fan page. Do the album categories make sense? Is it time to delete some of the images?

And don't forget Pintrest and all the other social networking outlets out there. Make the commitment to these short tasks in 2012 and watch your online presence blossom.

Artists Crossing Gallery Party

2012-01-17T07:00:00.004-05:00

Boston Handmade had the great pleasure of exhibiting work by several of our group members at Artists Crossing Gallery this winter. The gallery opened in 2008 and has maintained a presence in the Downtown Crossing neighborhood of Boston since then with regular gallery exhibits of local artists.
There will be an art reception this Thursday, January 19th from 5 pm to 7 pm at Artists Crossing for their latest featured artist, painter Diana Sironi, who creates a variety of artwork from antique wallpaper, egg tempera and oil paint. Using methods learned from local artists and abroad, her pieces represent New England and the world. You can find her from spring through fall at art fairs around the Boston area. Her artwork is in private collections in Europe, Asia and the United States. She lives in Peabody, MA with her husband Eric and her dog Doonie Doodles. For more info on this work and the gallery visit www.ArtistsCrossingBoston.com.

Artists Crossing Gallery is located at 505 Washington Street (across from Eddie Bower), Boston, MA 02111.

Monday Mosaic: Golden

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Dream 5x7 Photo Print France, by Kerry Hawkins Photography
2. Sunshine Onesie, by Elizabeth Brennick Designs
3. Foldable Purse Hook - Secret Garden in Bloom, by MaJenta Designs
4. Te Amo 5x7 Photographic Art Print, by Fraske Designs
5. Plush Owl "Mr. Hercule Poirot Detective, by Hibou Designs
6. Florimond's Window Trefoil Stained Glass, by Parrish Relics

Stuffed magazine - on the crafting of Softies!

2012-01-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

by Anne-Claire of HibouDesigns

Check out the new issue of Stuffed magazine! You can get your copy online right now!

For those of you who don't know this magazine yet it is "THE" magazine to read if you are looking for information on the crafting of "softies" also called "plush". It is packed with fun and amazing creations from some of the best plush artists around.

Well they did it again... Look at this cool cover! this is another great issue packed with lots of dolls and plushy goodness.

So it comes as no surprise that I am really proud to be part of it and even more so because I got a 3 page feature this time on my "Let Them Eat Cake" owl king and queen of France plush. Check it out :)

So hurry up to get your copy and pass the word around :)

Thanks!

My 2011 Knitting Resolution Update

2012-01-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Karen Mahoney of City by the Sea Ceramics

Last January I wrote about my resolution to learn how to knit in 2011. Further more, my resolutions included finishing my project I was learning on, and knit something with alpaca yarn.

In 2011 I did learn to knit. In fact, this beginner is kicking butt! Not only did I finish my learning project quickly, I rocked out another nine projects last year! I did not however knit a single thing with alpaca yarn, my whole reason for wanting to learn in the first place. While I didn't meet that goal, I'm not too worried about it because I was so productive otherwise. Also, Diane has some alpaca yarn stashed away for me and I have a pattern in mind for it, so the time will come.

How did your crafty 2011 resolutions go? Did you make any for 2012?

Vintage Fun

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Kerry of Khawkinsphoto

Sunday, I did a photo walk with a friend in the South End. it was a perfect day for it. Sunny and crisp. We took a walk down Harrison Ave and found the SOWA Vintage Market. I haven't been to the market since they moved from down the street. It was a nice discovery. I love to photograph old, quirky things. It is upon every Sunday and First Fridays and I will be making return visits. There were lots of vendors with everything like jewelry, clothing, prints, glassware, books, prints and much more...

In the last photo is my reflection. My head looks really big!

DailyLovely - A Year Long Photo Project

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Allison of Fraske Designs

There is so much beauty in every day, even in the dreariest, coldest months. So I am challenging myself to take a photo a day of lovely things in 2012. Big or small. Grand or mundane.

This might not sound like such a difficult resolution to keep for a photographer, but sometimes I get wrapped up in planning what I want to photograph that I am not paying enough attention to what is photo-worthy right in front of me. And there is plenty of that to be had every day.

You can follow on facebook, twitter, instagram (@allisonfraske, #dailylovely) or at www.dailylovely.com!

One week down, 51 to go. Wish me luck!

Puzzling Cats and Dogs

2012-01-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Nancy of nancyrosetta

My sister and former Boston Handmader Kathy Weller, has recently reached the big time. Well, she is on her way anyhow! She has been working to have her illustrations licensed in various ways including this one that I am super excited for! Puzzles!

She has two designs in partnership with Andrews & Blaine available at Barnes and Noble and as soon as I found out, I was on a hunt for them. Sadly, my hunt was premature since no B&N in my area are stocking the puzzles yet. They are so new that they are probably still on the truck!

I was able to order them both online, though.

Jive Cats are hip well dressed cats and I heard from the artist that this puzzle is super challenging, I can't wait to get it and find out for myself!

Community Bridge features dogs that will teach you how to speak french, so I'm told!

Even though these puzzles are not handmade, the blood, sweat, and tears behind the artwork is, and I love that I can share this with you. I am so proud of my sister, she is living her dream right before my eyes.

Both puzzles are available at Barnes and Noble online. I can't wait to see them displayed in a store. I will be keeping my eye out for these colorful cats and dogs each time I visit the bookstore, I am sure!

Our Feast of the Seven Fishes

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

One of my friends decided that this year we should try making a Feast of the Seven Fishes, an Italian Christmas tradition. Since cooking, eating, and drinking are some of our favorite activities, it was not hard to convince the rest of us that this was a good idea. We each picked a few dishes to try and attempt, and I brought my camera to document the evening-

Making fresh fettuccine (with a Kitchenaid mixer)

Waiting patiently to be cooked.

Appetizers

Eating mussels with mussels.

Smelts!

Fritto Misto

Wrapping the stuffed branzino

Seasoning the Whole Roasted Branzino with Fennel and Onions

Baccala (salted cod) with Polenta

We were all working somewhat outside of our comfort zones, working with techniques and ingredients that were new for us. Overall, we deemed the evening a success and already decided we would try it again next year!

I linked the dishes in the photos to some of the recipes we found online, here are a few more-

Jump Shrimp Marsala House-wife Style (Gamberoni Casalinga Siciliana)
Sauteed Broccoli Rabe
Chocolate Espresso Balsamic Fudge

Monday Mosaic: Works in Grey

2012-01-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Sawdust Fired Pot ,by City by the Sea Ceramics
2. Mens Black Waxwing Bird Tshirt , by An Li Studio
3. Happy House Pendant ,by Nancyrosetta
4. Penguin throw pillow , by Hibou Designs
5. Market tote - Vintage barkcloth with a tropical vibe , by Stray Notions
6. Grey chairs postcard by cricicis design

Favorite Local Yarn Shops

2012-01-08T11:29:00.005-05:00

by Jessica Burko of Reclaimed to You

JP Knit & Stitch located at 461 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

For several years now I have been a voracious knitter. I love all things yarn. I go nutty over knitting accessories and books of knitting patterns. I could spend all day talking about knitting, and learning knitting techniques. If you knit, you probably know exactly how I feel. If you don't knit, my goodness, what are you waiting for?!

Check out these great local yarn shops (LYS) for supplies, inspiration, instruction, and everything you need to get going on all types of textile projects. What are your favorite local yarn shops? Please share your faves in the comments - thanks!

A Good Yarn located at 4 Station Street, Brookline Village, MA 02445

Arts Marketing and Business Classes

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

This year Boston Handmade will be one of three sponsors for a new series of workshops geared towards creative entrepreneurs called, The Focusing Series, which is a collection of arts marketing and business workshops for professionals in the local creative economy. Sponsors for this series are The Jamaica Plain Arts Council, Boston Handmade and Alternate Currents, and the series is recommended by The Eliot School of Fine and Applied Arts.

For artists, designers, and craftspeople, operating a small business in today’s vibrant atmosphere of DIY entrepreneurs, this series of 15 workshops targets crucial topics for success such as How to Set-up and Sell Online, Time Management for Creative People, The Art of Branding, Photo-Documenting Your Art, and more.

Three local arts professionals, Anna Koon, Jessica Burko, and Scott Cipolla teach workshops in this series. Workshops will be held at locations along Centre Street in Jamaica Plain, and will cost $30 per session, with discounts offered by registering for three or more classes. For registration information and a full list of workshops visit: http://www.eliotschool.org/category/category/marketing-artists or download a PDF with a full listing of all workshops at: http://www.a2n2.net/2012WorkshopSchedule.pdf.

About the instructors:

Anna Koon: In addition to exhibiting and selling her artwork on a continual basis, Anna Koon is a board member and educator for the Jamaica Plain Arts Council. She also works as a Creative Coach, offering principled guidance and practical assistance to artists and creative entrepreneurs. Additionally she is a small business consultant and avid volunteer. Anna has a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design, with additional studies at The Atlanta College of Art, and the Photography School of France. http://www.a2n2.net/services.html

Jessica Burko: Jessica Burko is a professional artist, independent curator and the Executive Director of Boston Handmade. She is the Principle of Burko Design, offering services to artists and arts organizations to help them achieve their professional goals. Beyond exhibiting, selling, and promoting her own artwork she has worked as a professional Arts Marketer since 1997. She has a BFA in Photography from the Rhode Island School of Design, and her MFA in Imaging Arts & Sciences from the Rochester Institute of Technology. http://www.jessicaburko.com/BDIntro.html

Scott Cipolla: Since 2004 Scott Cipolla has served as Director of Alternate Currents, a platform developed to bring together contemporary artists from Boston’s diverse neighborhoods and represent them as a whole; encouraging networking and communication between these talented groups through promotional events and curated exhibitions. Since receiving her BFA in painting from Boston University, she has employed her talent for design and marketing through websites, printed materials and event planning. A former gallery owner, Scott currently assists the Education Department at the Peabody Museum of Harvard University. http://www.alternatecurrents.com/

Make this year THE year that you get serious about your creative business. Learn how to increase your exposure, sales, and reach your goals.

North Carolina Pottery

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Karen Mahoney of City by the Sea Ceramics

Over the the holiday break my husband and I visited his family in North Carolina. The nearby Mint Museum was having an exhibit on pottery from the state, so we made sure to stop by while in the area. Here's a few of my favorites from the show.

Holiday Crafting: Webster Style

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Evan of Evan Webster Ink

A quirky tradition started years ago has become the Webster family's marquee holiday event. Every Christmas eve we get together and order Thai food. No, wait. Well, that is a yearly tradition also. But the one I'm talking about is crafting our annual Christmas stockings.

Grandma Joan spends the year stocking up on those ever-rarer blank-sided paper grocery bags. Aunt Marcia always brings more than enough rubber cement, pastels and collage materials. Everyone else throws their old calendars in the middle of the table. And then we get to work.

Every person's style is different as is every year's. This year orange and red took center stage. Although no year would be complete with some sort of extreme animal collage.

Can you guess which one is mine?

A couple from 2010.

The Joy of Custom

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Cristina Hurley of Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

Every year around the holidays, I start to get a lot of inquiries into doing custom pieces for people wanting something special and unique to give to their loved ones. This is what really gets me excited and looking forward to the holiday season. There is something so special about being an active participant in a person's desire to give something special and personal as a gift. I get custom orders all year round, but I really get a lot of them around the holidays. After the year is done, and I have recovered from the rush, I like to look back at my pictures and see how many custom orders I actually did. I also like to get inspiration and ideas for my future designs. Some of my best designs start with a custom order. I enjoy the process very much and wanted to share some of the great pieces that were a created.

Would you like to do a custom order? Wonderful! Feel free to contact me on my website, by phone, or stop into my studio anytime! It is a wonderful, personal and dynamic process and you will really enjoy it, so many of my clients have said so...

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and like me after, got some good and well deserved rest!

Enjoy.

Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

3 Rockland Street

Canton, MA 02021

781-562-0421

Studio Hours: Wed-Friday 11-6, Sat 11-5

City Adventure

2012-01-03T17:53:00.001-05:00

By Kerry of Khawkinsphotography

Last week, the day after Christmas, we decided to make a trip into Boston. We had not visited the Museum of Fine Arts in quite some time and we had missed it. There were tons of new exhibits and I had some favorites. We had not seen the new contemporary art wing and that was a real treat. The museum has been expanded and renovated. It is like a old friend that has had a serious makeover.

After the museum, we headed to the T and then to downtown to grab something to eat. We decided on a new restaurant called Trade. We have been wanting to try the restaurant and we were not disappointed.

A great ending to our Boston adventure. Of course, this is a chance to take photos along the way.

Monday Mosaic: Garnet

2012-01-02T07:00:00.001-05:00

1. Raku Bottle , by City by the Sea Ceramics
2. 1 inch Wide Dog Collar in Rule the Roost Red, by Cody's Creations
3. Peony postcard, set of eight , by cricicis design
4. Clover Bracelet with Garnet and CZ , by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design
5. Collage mixed-media on wood with encaustic, by Reclaimed to You
6. Winter Owl Plush collectible toy "Super Hibou", by Hibou Designs

Happy 2012!!!

2012-01-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot

(holiday note cards by cricicis design)

First the Good News

2011-12-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Sharon of Stray Notions

The good news -- winding down from the holiday season and planning for a better year to come -- because there's always room for improvement, right? Tomorrow my big plans are to take me and some personal stitching (embroidery AND knitting) projects down to the stitcher's brunch at Gather Here in Cambridge and enjoy working on something just for me (well, actually the embroidery is a gift, but without any pressure).

The picture shows both the good news and the alluded to bad news, as they are inextricably linked. All of the items -- the gorgeous variegated yarns that I usually don't splurge on and the nifty wooden display spinner were purchased this summer at at deep discount from a needlework store that was going out of business. I was happy to get them, but so sad that the store is no longer. So, while enjoying the great company and treats I also plan to support the retail end of Gather Here cause I'd be really sad if one day they weren't here. Please think about doing the same for your favorite local businesses.

Mary Michael Bronze Artist

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Nancy of nancyrosetta

I recently met bronze artist Mary Michael in Las Vegas at the Art of the American Cowboy show. My father was showing his work there as a featured artist, and I had some time to take in all the art that was on offer. Her piece "Tall Cool One" broke the ice for me and I had to meet her and get to know how she makes her art.

Mary is a fascinating woman with a wonderful family who were all there supporting her as she she manned her booth. I had a little chance to talk with her and learn about how she has her sculptures cast into bronze. First she uses clay to sculpt the artwork, then she sends it to be made into a mold that will either be a one of a kind or a limited edition. She likes to experiment with patinas, it was interesting learning some of the techniques she uses to achieve different colors and textures on the bronze.

Here is Mary doing what she loves. I loved seeing this horse in progress, it already looks like a winner to me! She is super talented!

Art of the American Cowboy

2011-12-29T09:42:00.002-05:00

by Nancy of nancyrosetta

Early this December, my father was honored to be the featured artist in a show in Las Vegas called Art of the American Cowboy. I was lucky enough to be able to go to the show and see all the amazing artwork. His artwork is featured in their banner and signs!

Here is Dad with his wife ChaCha and my husband Scott, along with a variety of his framed paintings. His booth looked amazing.

Along with all the artwork on display, there was a rodeo...right in the resort! It was the first rodeo I have ever been to that was inside a building. Pretty spectacular.

And this waiting/practicing area was also INSIDE the resort! My vantage point is from above looking down from a window. These people all looked very nervous getting ready for their chance at a portion of 4.2 million dollars in a roping contest. Of course the horses looked completely at ease. :)

Even though I went to this event to support my fathers artwork (and him), my favorite piece was from one of his horses that he had on display in his booth. A testament to his sense of humor and his horse's mighty tongue.

Click the image to see the title plate bigger. I love the humor.

I'm so glad that I could attend this event in support of my Dad. He and my step-mother were so glad that we could be there and that meant the world to me.

Christmas Food (and Beagles)

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

Delicious food and happy dogs seem to make up a lot of my photos from the holiday this year-

Croissants!

Homemade cookies

Raspberry cake

Buche de Noel

And now the dog, finding and opening his present-

Another successful holiday! How do you spend yours?

Rounding It Up

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

by An Li Liu of An Li Liu

This is the first quiet week in awhile – my hands are resting after printing up a storm for Bazaar Bizarre and Craftland. I’m looking forward to a little reflection and digestion of the year’s events, and enjoy this peaceful time before barreling full force into new designs and projects.

I took time out for an old friend’s wedding in my hometown Toronto earlier this month, and got married myself a week later! So needless to say, life has been hectic, and full of all sorts of energy. All things considered, this has been a fantastic year of experimenting and learning, and big leaps of faith. I’m excited about the year to come, and all the surprises it may bring.

Speaking of surprises, I have to share my new kitchen appliance Santa brought me for Christmas – the cutest and most high-tech rice cooker ever!

Monday Mosaic: Boxing Day

2011-12-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Boston Skyline Coaster Set of 4 , by Lucie Wicker Photography
2. Lidded Box , by City by the Sea Ceramics
3. Wedding Party Favor Gift Tin , by MaJenta Designs
4. Twisting Pyramid drop in Sterling and gold with Spinning Action by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

So now is come our joyful feast,

Let every man be jolly;

Each room with ivy leaves is dressed,

And every post with holly.

Though some churls at our mirth repine,

Round your foreheads garlands twine,

Drown sorrow in a cup of wine,

And let us all be merry.

~George Wither

Wishing you a warm, safe, and happy holiday from Boston Handmade!

Santa Owl by Hibou Designs

A Very Beagle Christmas

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

Every year our holiday card features our beagle, Apollo. This year we did a little shoot right in our neighborhood in a spot that had vibrant yellow leaves, the color was amazing! I let him do his thing (with some "instruction") and wound up with these three photos for the card.

Happy Christmas Eve!

A Little Holiday Decorating

2011-12-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Jen Parrish of Parrish Relics

Decorating a new home for the holiday can be so much fun, just hanging a few ornaments here and there and a garland over the door can make such a difference. A ribbon across the kitchen wall holds cards received, fun to add more as they come in.

No tree this year but I'm surrounding myself with friends' artwork and photography, the surest way to make a house a home.

In the center of this photo, an image from my friend Chris Kowalski, who sadly left us this year but will forever be remembered.

From the hands of wise children

2011-12-22T07:00:00.005-05:00

by Jessica Burko of Reclaimed To You

On November 28th the best holiday gift arrived to our family - our new baby Naomi. About a week later the best new baby gift arrived from two classrooms of 2nd graders at St. Peter's School in Philadelphia courtesy of my dear childhood friend, and amazing teacher, Jessica Kulick.
Every 2nd grader handmade a beautiful card and wrote a heartfelt letter of "advice for a good life" to our new baby daughter. I am so grateful for all the letters we received and for the great advice (in fantastic handwriting!) such as:

"You should not watch too much TV or play too many video games because it makes your brain go mushy. Do not be mean to your brother. Do not cry too much in the night" from Christian and, "Listen to your mommy and daddy! You should also try not to bite people in your family or anyone else!" from Charlotte and, "Get washable markers and paint." from Trevor and, "You should be a good friend so your friends will be good to you." from Drew.

Wise words, and sweet gifts. Receiving this amazing package also got me thinking about handwritten letters and how I rarely send or receive them anymore. The letters from these children inspired me to write a few letters of my own, by hand, on nice paper, and mail them to friends and family. Sometimes the sweetest gift is the simplest one.

If you're looking for nice stationary for sending some handwritten notes, check out these local artists on Etsy.com:
Cricicis Design at http://www.etsy.com/shop/cricicis
Albertine Press at http://www.etsy.com/shop/albertinepress
Sophy Tuttle Illustration at http://www.etsy.com/shop/SophyTuttle
Zoetropa at http://www.etsy.com/shop/zoetropa

Color Palette at Work

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Diane of Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design

I am sorting through my inventory for the last couple of days and I was really inspired by the array of colors that I had created the past 6 months. Although most of that inventory has been sold, which makes me very happy, I am always producing more yarn each week. After looking at my inventory I have realized how much I enjoy mixing my color palette up with color combinations that make you think outside the box. I really have found my niche for my color and it's because I have taken the time to find inspiration from modern and contemporary artists but also I am trying to spend more time going on excursions locally to find interesting materials and people wearing amazing colors.

I don't like to boast about these accomplishments but I have seen a progression in my work that I am extremely humbled by. As crafters and artist, we need to continue to evolve in our own crafts. Sometimes you have to go against what you have always been comfortable producing in order to create new and innovative artwork and crafts.

Check this one out!

Why not another one to show you!

Last Minute Gift Idea: Homemade Pickles

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Allison of Fraske Designs

If you are looking for a neat homemade treat that's a little different than cookies or pie, give this easy homemade pickle recipe a try! They are really very simple to make (it is a refrigerator, non-canning method), the ingredient list is short, and prep time is quick! I am making them as hostess gifts for Christmas this year (shhh don't spoil the surprise) because... who doesn't like pickles?

There are several non-canning methods you can find online. I adapted my recipe from the website Never Trust a Skinny Baker.

Ingredients:

3 cups distilled white vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp of pickling spice
2 cups hot water
2 pounds pickling cucumbers, sliced in spears or discs
1 bunch of chopped fresh dill
3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped

Directions:

Mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and pickling spice in a large, heat-safe bowl. Pour the hot water (I just boiled it in a kettle) over the vinegar mixture, and mix until the sugar is dissolved. Cool to room temperature.

Chop cucumbers into spears, and divide them into jars (I used pint sized Ball jars which you can find in your local supermarket or hardware store for cheap).

Chop the dill and the garlic, and divide it evenly among your jars, and pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to two weeks, and enjoy!

Monday Mosaic: O Tannenbaum

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

1. Sterling and CZ North Star Pendant , by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design
2. Plush toy scissors , by Hibou Designs
3. Leash - 6ft Pupcake Cupcake Mini , by Cody's Creations
4. Trefoil of the Grove - Stained Glass Gothic Arch Window Necklace , by Parrish Relics
4. Butterfly Flower Cap Sleep T-shirt , by An Li Studio
6. Boat , by Arthur Halvorsen
7. Green Rope Inlay Stoneware Mug , by City by the Sea Ceramics
8. So Sari Beret in Green , by Elephunk's Trunk
9. Springtime Festive Floral Explosion , by MaJenta Designs
10. Dandelion 8x10 Photo Print , by Lucie Wicker Photography
11. Needle Felted Fruit Ornaments, by Cozy Cottage Creations
12. Dragonfly brooch green and majenta , by Stray Notions
13. Northern Ireland 5x7 photoprint Featuring Cows, by Kerry Hawkins Photography
14. Recycle N Reuse Leg Warmers, by Elizabeth Brennick Designs
15. Adult Village SQRZ T in Green, by Evan Webster Ink
16. Holiday moose postcards, set of five, by cricicis design
17. Fenway Park Red Seat 8x10 Photographic Print , by Fraske Designs
18. Green polka dotted gift tags , by Reclaimed to You
19. Green Meadows 170 yards tencel and merino wool , by Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Designs
20. Aloha Pendant, by Nancyrosetta

Artist Making Art

2011-12-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Kerry of Kerry Hawkins Photography

On of the wonderful thing about running and working in a gallery/shop is having artists do their work in the Gallery. At the Dedham Square Artist Guild many of our artist members volunteer to work in the gallery. Often these artists bring their projects to work on. The work ranges from sewing, painting, drawing, to making jewelry. I love to see the process and how artists goes about making a finished project.

1. Iris Sonnenschein 2. Rali Weaver 3.Marietta Appollonio 4.Barbara Trainer

All of our artists are local and many are from Dedham. One of the goals of the Guild is to bring local art to the community. It is wonderful that local artist hang out, work and make things in the gallery.

Knit Christmas Ornaments

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Karen Mahoney of City by the Sea Ceramics

This year I decided to make some small knit ornaments for all the family at Christmas. I still need to find time to embroider some features on the snowman, but I sure do like my cute little ornaments! Besides cookies, what handmade items do you gift during the holidays?

Crafting for the Holidays

2011-12-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Diane of Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design

I have spent the month of November preparing for my holiday craft fairs this month and I have to say, it was so exciting to be able to do more craft fairs this month and to see the amazing and talented crafters in Boston. I have been spending the last week or so dyeing and spinning yarn and I wanted to share with all of you some of the completed hand-dyed and hand-spun yarns I have done.

I am getting ready for the vibrant colors of spring and summer.

I call this Batman as I used black and yellow food coloring which blend into amazing colors.

Happy Thursday!

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

Smile! It's almost Friday! Spreading the end-of-the-week love with Allison of Fraske Design's awesome 5x7 "Smile" print, available now in her Etsy shop.

JP Holiday Fair Report

2011-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Kerry of Kerry Hawkins Photography

Saturday, December 3rd, Boston Handmade participated in the JP Holiday Fair. It was a fun day of crafts, art, music and treats to eat. I really like doing this show. There is a good crowd and I also, enjoying talking with people that attend.

There were eight Boston Handmaders participating this year. Lady Dye Fiber Arts, Cody's Creations, and Cricicis Designs are all new to the fair. I was happy they were able to join us this year.

The Boston Handmade line-up includes: Lucie Wicker Photography, Kerry Hawkins Photography, Cody's Creations, City by the Sea Ceramics, Cricicis Design, Elizabeth Brennick Designs, Straynotions and Lady Dye Fiber.

Boston Handmaders are also exhibiting as a group their work in two venues until January 15. In Boston, Artist Crossing and in Canton, Cristina Hurley Jewelry.

Boston Handmade Etsy Finds

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

We've been super busy getting ready for the holidays here at Boston Handmade. While we're participating in shows, family gatherings, and holiday parties, we're still listing our goods on Etsy too! Here are a few Boston Handmade finds-

Monday Mosaic: Candy Cane

2011-12-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Leash 6ft - Red Hots, by Cody's Creations
2. Santa Owl Plush Collectible Toy Owl , by Hibou Designs
3. Fingerless gloves - Red with multicolored trim , by Stray Notions
4. Red Hummingbirds Notecard , by An Li Studios
5. Wrist Pin Cushion Apple , by Elizabeth Brennick Designs
6. Inman SQRZ T, by Evan Webster Ink
7. Rose 220 yards of Peruvian Highland Wool , by Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design
8. Love Note made from recycled paper, by Reclaimed to You

Recap of West Elm & Etsy Handmade Holiday Workshop

2011-12-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Kerrie Beck of Cody's Creations

On December 1st several members of Boston Handmade, myself, Kerry of Kerry Hawkins Photography, Arthur of Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics, and Sharon of Stray Notions were part of the West Elm and Etsy Handmade Holiday Workshop. The Boston Handmade Team demonstrated how to make origami paper ornaments. We helped the shoppers make and decorate the ornaments which they could bring home or place on the Christmas Tree in the store. The decorated tree will be delivered to Rosie's Place on December 24th along with any unwrapped new toys that have been donated in the store collection bin.

The evening was a blast! We have fun making ornaments, shopping at several featured Etsy sellers that were set up in the store, and meeting the crowd that came into West Elm for the event. By the end of the night, the tree was decorated beautifully and we were throughly in the Christmas spirit.

If you have a chance, stop by the West Elm in Fenway to view the tree, and if you can, donate an ornament or a toy.

The following photos are courtesy of Kerry of Kerry Hawkins Photography. Thank you Kerry for capturing the event!

Hibou Designs at West Elm and Bazaar Bizarre

2011-12-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Anne-Claire of Hibou Designs

That has been a busy week but it was also a fun week! The Etsy/West Elm pop-up Holiday shop at the Burlington location (MA) on Thursday December 1st was very nice and also a great occasion for me to explore new territories as I made some specific pieces for this event.

I made some animal decorative pillows that looked really cool on their sofas! Check it out in the pics below.

Owls, elephants, penguins, fish, crocodile... there was a whole menagerie there :)

A big Thank You to Etsy and West Elm for organizing this event especially to Kate Downey the West Elm/Burlington MA store manager and all the staff as well as to Vanessa Bertozzi, Director of Community and Education at Etsy.

I am looking forward to do this again soon!

*************

Then on Sunday the 4th there was the amazing Boston Bazaar Bizarre craft fair! As usual it was really good and very busy. I had a fantastic time and I'm already looking forward to do it again next year :)

I had the opportunity to test some new designs which is always good as there is nothing better than getting comments directly from your customers! I had a lot of positive feedbacks and want to thank everyone for their support and kind words about my work, it means the world to me and it is what keeps me going so a big THANK YOU to you!

Here are a few pics... one of them with my son who came to see "Mama's plush show" :)

A little display rehearsal at home before the show...

The Muscle Marcel plushies are quietly observing the crowd! The one with the red stripes and the heart and dagger tattoo found a new home soon after :)

Here I am with my son Jack, without the inspiration of whom a lot of these plush wouldn't exist...

Happy "Bad Mood Eating Monsters", elephants and penguins enjoying the spotlights.

Here is my newest design, the fish pillow. In from is my little happy crocodile with his own habitat :)

A big Thank You again to the organizers of BBB who were extremely helpful and attentive. I really felt like they rolled out the red carpet for us crafters this year and it is rare enough to be mentioned and applauded :)

Another big Thank You too to my customers and all the people I had the pleasure to chat with, I really enjoyed meeting you and am looking forward to see you again soon in my little Etsy shop!

Happy Holidays!

West Elm Inspiration

2011-12-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Arthur of Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics

Over the weekend my friends were having a party at their apartment in the South End and they wanted to do a crafting project, naturally as the only artist in the group they asked me to put something together. I was a little scrambled as to what to do with them because I couldn't do clay, it's too messy and not portable at all. A few nights before Boston Handmade did the awesome project at West Elm where we folded paper into ornaments courtesy of Etsy and it donned on me that I should do that!

So off to Michael's I went. I got heavy card stock and foam stickers to decorate with and my friends LOVED doing it! I just wish I grabbed a few of the extra blanks that we had left over from our event at West Elm. Well, I still think that they came out really good and my friends really enjoyed the project, luckily I was one of the people doing a fold-a-thon at West Elm because some of my friends needed help but they all came out great. We didn't have a place to hang them right then and there so I decided to hang them for my friends off their chandelier in their living room, and I think they look pretty cool hanging there! Enjoy the photos!

Boston Handmade at Artists Crossing Gallery

2011-12-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Jennifer T. of MaJenta Designs

Consider shopping local and supporting handmade this holiday season! There are a few galleries that are featuring the work of some of the talented artists of Boston Handmade. One of the galleries is right in downtown Boston!

Artists Crossing: 505 Washington St, Boston, MA (Map it)

Downtown Crossing

(across from Eddie Bauer)

Open EVERY day!

Five Boston Handmade members are currently featured!

Jewelry and housewares inspired by Japanese papers by MaJenta Designs

Up on the walls are mixed media canvases by Reclaimed to You

Handsawed sterling silver jewelry by Nancyrosetta

Original millinery designs and an assortment of hats by Elephunk's Trunk

Metalsmith fine jewelry by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Designs

There are a total of 20 artists featured this month, come check out all the lovely artwork and handmade creations!

Life in Stitches

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Evan of Evan Webster Ink

I can't say I expected to be focusing on a book about writing for this blog post about crafting. But after finishing bird by bird by Anne Lamott, I can't think of anything more appropriate. It turns out there are many similarities between the writing process and the crafting process. Much of the book's content relates to any creative process. Let me explain.

The title, bird by bird, refers to the idea of taking things one step at a time. The enormity of our vision and goals, even for a single, seemingly small, project can stifle our ability to simply get started. But start we must. A fine scarf is comprised of many small stitches.

This is equally true on a bigger scale: a medium or long-term project. Your best photograph of the year comes from days or, more likely, months of doing shoots that aren't quite right - until one is. For me, a batch of t-shirts begins with just one, but ends in hundreds of finished pieces. The first one is always the hardest. The examples are endless: creating a collection of mugs for a holiday show, crafting a scrapbook to welcome a newborn child (congrats Jessica!), or setting out to paint the world, all of it, as you see it.

The book is bulging with beautiful ideas and funny passages. But just one more I'll mention. The author talks a lot about creating crappy first drafts. Even the greatest writers do this. And I'd bet my Michael Jordan autographed golf card that great visual artists do too. Embracing the mistakes could be the key to future successes. If we stopped trying to walk after taking our very first steps the entire world would still be on all fours. Can you imagine? We would be going to school, to work, to the opera, dancing, hiking - on all fours. No one would be dunking, that's for sure. But, and it is amazing, people do dunk in our world! Along with lots of other truly awesome things. So get crafting, make mistakes, have fun, and take life stich by stitch.

Yao Ming takes it step-by-step. Even Yao used to be a small child, think about that!

My next knitting project- a baby blanket and a small purse

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Karen Mahoney of City by the Sea Ceramics

I had a new little niece that was on the way and I decided I was going to make her a baby blanket. I thought her older sister may get jealous of the gift arriving and not being for her so I wanted to knit a small purse for her as well, since she loves bags and purses.

Here is the 27"x27" blanket I knit for the new baby, and a small purse I knit for her big sister.

I did a seed stitch on both, which was a new stitch for me. I decided to do the purse first, figuring the pattern in the yarn would hide any mistakes better while I was still getting a feel for the stitch.

A broken arm kept me from finishing it before my new niece was born, but I'm excited for her to finally receive it!

Monday Mosaic: Gifts for Guys

2011-12-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

1. Dudley SQRZ T , by Evan Webster Ink
2. Harness - Adjustable in Licorice, by Cody's Creations
3. Sterling Silver Kenpo inspired Dragon Pendant , by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design
4. Home of the Red Sox 5x7, by Fraske Designs
5. Foxy Fox Mens T Shirt, by An Li Studios
6. Sawdust Fired Cup, by City by the Sea Ceramics

Buy Handmade for the Holidays!

2011-12-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Anne-Claire from Hibou Designs

The Holiday season has started and Christmas is just around the corner. I have been sewing up a storm to prepare for Boston's big event TODAY: Boston Bazaar Bizarre!

This is a great way to kick off your Christmas shopping and support local crafters/artists as all the vendors in this fair are local and offer hand made items.

Please come and say hi and take this opportunity to "Buy Handmade for the Holidays!"

Boston Bazaar Bizarre TODAY, December 4th (from noon to 6pm)!

Here is a sneak peek at the plush goodies you will see there :)

Yep these are voodoo dolls!....

So if you are in or around Boston today come see me and lots of other amazing vendors including a group of Boston Handmade members!

Oh and pass the word around!

Thanks folks,

Anne-Claire aka Hibou

JP Holiday Fair Today

2011-12-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Boston Handmade will be spreading the holiday cheer all day today at the annual JP Holiday Fair. See you there!

Wall Decals

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Beth of Elizabeth Brennick Designs

I bought an early Christmas gift for the Brennick household off of Etsy. I have a wall in a short hallway when you enter in our house surrounded by four doors. A piece of furniture given by my neighbor for free got a fresh coat of orange paint with clear knobs. An old lamp I bought for a dollar at a yard sale also got painted along with a new lampshade that I recovered with fabric. A runner from Pier One that was just meant to be but there was still something missing. I thought of everything to place above the lamp; a picture, banner, wreath, etc.. I wanted something that would pop. I've already done all of those examples throughout the house and wanted something different and came up with a decal.

I found this one on Etsy from a seller called Twistmo for $25.00. It was perfect!! The right size, color, simplicity but represent us Brennicks. It's the first decal in the house and was pretty simple to apply. You have to peel them off just perfectly for it to adhere to the wall. Maybe have an exacto around or a pair of scissors, that's what we used. It's an eye catcher whenever someone new comes over and I hope you think so too! p.s. I got some cool picture frames that need to be painted to go on either side of the lamp to complete the look.

JP Holiday Fair THIS Saturday!

2011-12-01T07:00:00.006-05:00

We are so excited to be back at the First Church Jamaica Plain's annual Holiday Fair this Saturday from 11am to 5pm. We will be up on the stage again with plenty of new things for sale just in time for the holidays. Representing Boston Handmade will be-

City by the Sea Ceramics

Cody's Creations

cricicis design

Elizabeth Brennick Designs

Kerry Hawkins Photography

Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design

Lucie Wicker Photography

Stray Notions

This event will be in conjunction with the JP Holiday Stroll and tree lighting festivities so there is a lot going on all day in the Jamaica Plain area. For more information at to RSVP to this event, click here. Looking forward to see you on Saturday!

Artists Crossing Holiday Party!

2011-11-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

by Cristina Hurley of Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

If you love holiday shopping, and you love fine, handmade crafts and gift, look no further than Artists Crossing in the downtown crossing area of Boston. Members of Boston Handmade are displaying their work there through the holidays!

Some of the artists include Jessica Burko of Reclaimed to You,

and Nancy MacCallum of Nancy Rosetta.

If you are feeling festive, make sure you stop by the gallery on Thursday, December 1st. They are having a 3rd Anniversary Party, from 4-8pm. you might even get to meet some of the artists!

Here's the location:

Artists Crossing

505 Washington Street

Boston, MA 02111

Happy Holidays!

Like their page on Facebook

Handmade Holiday Workshop

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Kerrie of Cody's Creations

On December 1st between 6-9pm stop by your local West Elm store for a Handmade Holiday Workshop sponsored by West Elm and Etsy! Members of Boston Handmade will be at the West Elm store on Brookline Ave helping you to make holiday ornaments. There will also be a mini market of Etsy sellers, and a collection for unwrapped new toys and holiday ornaments that will be donated to Rosie's Place.

For more information please visit the official event listing on Facebook

Monday Mosaic: Animalia

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Little Birdie Brooch lapel pin , by Stray Notions
2. Japanese Koi Fish Notecard, by An Li Studios
3. 1 inch Wide Dog Collar with Adjustable Buckle , by Cody's Creations
4. Wool Felt Money/Card Holder - Squirrel , by Elizabeth Brennick Designs
5. Sterling Silver Butterfly Silhouette Pendant, by Cristina Hurley Design
6. Japanese Chiyogami Lucky Ladybugs on Purple, by MaJenta Designs
7. Elephant pillow -two tone grey -OOAK , by Hibou Designs
8. Bull postcard , by cricicis design
9. The Favorite Cat Shrine Pictorial Necklace by Parrish Relics

New 2012 Calendars

2011-11-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Leah of cricicis design

Next weekend I'll be at the Jamaica Plain Holiday Fair, and the Bazaar Bizarre with two 2012 calendars for sale. One is an 8" x 14" single-sheet, frame-able wall calendar, featuring prints of my fish drawings, and the other is a smaller hanging calendar featuring 12 different bird illustrations. Here's a sneak-peek!

Handmade Gifts for Kids

2011-11-26T08:58:00.008-05:00

by Jessica Burko of Reclaimed To You

With a 2-year-old at home, a baby on the way, and several nieces and nephews, I definitely have gifts for kids on my mind this holiday season. Yes, I will be knitting tiny hats and scarves, and making a few other gifts myself, but I'll also be purchasing holiday gifts from as many local artists and artisans as I can find. Browsing through Etsy this morning I found a few gems that have made it onto my shopping wish list...

Elephant throw pillow, two tone blue big accent pillow for sofa or bed, all hand sewn, OOAK by Hibou Designs

Special ball, handmade eco design, by Timo Handmade

Owl In The Moon Mobile For Baby Nursery, by Kirsty Elson Designs

What's on your handmade holiday shopping wish list? I'd love to know!

Handmade Holiday Round-up

2011-11-25T07:19:00.011-05:00

by Sharon Fischer of Stray Notions

The winter holidays and the months leading up to them are busy (crazy?) times for makers.

We forsake our friends and families and in some cases our gyms (who? not me?) to create and produce new work which we all hope will find new and loving homes.

This year you'll be able to find Boston Handmade members' work for sale not just in Boston proper, but also in galleries and fairs from Rhode Island to Western Massachusetts.

Here's a round up of where to find us. You can also check the Boston Handmade Events Page and calendar:

Weekend Fairs and special events:

November 25-27

Hollydays, Princeton, MA
Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics

December 1
West Elm in Burlington is featuring several local Etsy sellers including Boston Handmade's newest member Hibou Designs (pictured above) from 6 to 9pm. Also several members of Boston Handmade will be at the West Elm Boston Store for a special event helping folks to get their holiday craft on. Craft night guests can look forward to creating their own origami hanging ornament, an activity led by Boston Handmade Etsy Team craft leader, Kerrie Beck, of Cody's Creations. Each ornament will be a small contribution to West Elm’s Ornament and Gift Drive.

December 3

Jamaica Plain Holiday Fair, First Church Jamaica Plain, 6 Eliot St, Jamaica Plain from 11am - 5pm. Members of Boston Handmade exhibiting at this show (pictured above):
Kerry Hawkins Photography
Kerrie Beck, Cody's Creations
Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics
Leah Ammerman, cricicis design
Beth Brennick, Elizabeth Brennick Designs
Sharon Fischer, Stray Notions
Diane Ivey, Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design
Lucie Wicker Photography

December 3
RISD Holiday Alumni Show

Rhode Island Convention Center

1 Sabin Street, Providence, RI

10am to 5pm
Cristina Hurley Designs

December 4
Bazaar Bizarre Boston
Center for the Arts/Cyclorama, 539 Tremont Street, Boston from 12 - 6pm. Boston Handmade members exhibiting together at this event (pictured above):
Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics
Leah Ammerman, cricicis design
Nancy McCallum, nancy rosetta
Evan Webster Ink
Sharon Fischer, Stray Notions
Diane Ivey, Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design
Cristina Hurley Designs
and exhibiting in a separate booth:
Anne-Claire Regan, Hibou Designs

December 3 & 4
Gorse Mills Open Studios

31 Thorpe Road

Needham MA

Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics

December 11
Snow Mall
Arts at the Armory
191 Somerville Avenue, Somerville, 12 - 6pm
Sharon Fischer, Stray Notions

December 17

UForge Gallery Holiday Fair

767 Centre Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

11am to 5pm

Lucie Wicker Photography

Boston Handmade members
will be exhibiting at TWO Galleries
this holiday season from
November 15, 2011 - January 15, 2012:

Boston Handmade at the Cristina Hurley Gallery
3 Rockland Street
Canton, MA 02021
Gallery hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 11am-6pm

Boston Handmade members exhibiting at the Cristina Hurley Gallery:
Jessica Burko, Reclaimed to You

Kerry Hawkins Photography
Kerrie Beck, Cody's Creations
Jennifer Tang, Majenta Designs
Nancy McCallum, nancy rosetta
Lucie Wicker Photography
Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics
Lynne Parrella, Cozy Cottage Creations

Boston Handmade at Artists Crossing
505 Washington Street in Downtown Crossing, Boston, 02111
Open every day through Christmas Eve!
Gallery hours: Sunday - Wednesday, 11am - 5 pm, Thursday - Saturday, 11am- 7pm

Boston Handmade members exhibiting at Artists Crossing (pictured above):
Jessica Burko, Reclaimed to You
Cristina Hurley Designs
Jennifer Tang, Majenta Designs
Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri, Elephunk's Trunk
Nancy McCallum, of nancyrosetta

Boston Handmade members will be exhibiting at THREE additional retail galleries and studio spaces this holiday season:

November 25th to December 31

Craftland Holiday Show
235 Westminster St., Providence, RI , 10am-6pm, Thursday and Saturday 10am-8pm

Beth Brennick, Elizabeth Brennick Designs

An Li Liu

December 2 -19
Mudflat Studio Sale
81 Broadway, Somerville
Arthur Halvorsen

December 8-22
Handmade Holidays at the Potters Shop Gallery, Gorse Mill Studios (Studio L-101), 31 Thorpe Road, Needham, MA, 02494. Mondays 3-5, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11-5, Thursdays 11-9, Saturdays 10-5.
Karen Mahoney, City By The Sea Ceramics
Sharon Fischer, Stray Notions
Kerry Hawkins Photography
Lynne Parrella, Cozy Cottage Creations

Diane Ivey, Lady Dye

Jennifer Tang, MaJenta Designs

Handmade items are one-of-a-kind high quality gifts to give, so this holiday season SHOP HANDMADE... SHOP LOCAL... SUPPORT ARTISTS AND CRAFTERS!

Giving Thanks

2011-11-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

The year has turned its circle,
The seasons come and go.
The harvest all is gathered in
And chilly north winds blow.

Orchards have shared their treasures,
The fields, their yellow grain,
So open wide the doorway ---
Thanksgiving comes again!
-Old Rhyme

Cozy Cottage Creations

Happy Thanksgiving from Boston Handmade!

New Items in My Etsy Shop

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

I have been pretty busy in the past week restocking my Etsy shop in time for the holiday shopping season. I have some new designs that I'm pretty psyched about that I wanted to share here-

New card designs

New coasters!

(I'm still offering my Fenway Park set too)

New pocket notebooks

I will be participating with Boston Handmade at the JP Holiday Fair on December 3; all of these new items will be for sale (along with a few others). Come by and see them in person!

Fish Head

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Nancy of nancyrosetta

Every now and then I see something in my scrap sheet that just cannot be ignored. Sometimes it happens because I have sawing block (like writers block) and I just stare at the metal until I see something, other times it slaps you in the face just like this fish head did.

Look to the left side, do you see something?

So, when you come down with an artistic mental block, try looking at the shadows of what you have done before, and you may see something new.

Monday Mosaic: Gratitude

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Plate in Turquoise Gray , by City by the Sea Ceramics
2. Sterling Star Charm Bracelet with Blues OOAK , by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design
3. Modern Pastry Boston MA 8x10 photo sepia print , by Kerry Hawkins Photography
4. Piano 2 8x10 Photo Print , by Lucie Wicker Photography
5. Cup , by Arthur Halvorsen
6. Sterling and Cooper layered ring by Nancyrosetta

Working with Photographs Workshop

2011-11-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Kerry Hawkins of KHawkinsphotography

These photos are from a photo workshop given by Lucie Wicker.

Diane Ivey, Karen Mahoney, Jen Tang of Boston Handmade also attended the workshop. Lucie provided all kinds of great supplies and advice. Then we went to town making photo creations.

We used canvases, magnets, glass tiles and other surfaces to attach photos too. It was kind of smelly and a whole lot of fun. I haven't used Modpodge in awhile and forgot all it's great uses for glue and sealing photos. We used our own photos and Lucie's photos (second photo), funky scissors, and colorful scrapbooking paper.

I have tried some of these techniques on my own with only limited success. Saturday, I think I have mastered some techniques thanks to this workshop and Lucie's guidance.

1 Year Later

2011-11-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Kerrie of Cody's Creations

My vision for Cody’s Creations is to have a collection of exclusive and unique offerings for your pets. After creating several products, like the Pocket Treat and Training Pouch, and the Partner Link, I was determined to be able to offer collars and leashes that you couldn’t find everywhere. I began researching how I could have ribbons and trims made with my designs.

Just about a year ago, I began working my first custom ribbon design. After spending hours and days on the graphic, I could not wait to see my design come to life. Today, I have seven ribbon designs under my belt. And each time I send off my graphic, I get so excited to open the package and see the ribbon. I feel energized and recharged and cannot wait to begin to make collars and leashes with the new ribbon.

Lobsters

Gemstones

Bow Ties

Devils

Pugs

Squirrels

My goal going into this year is to at least double the amount of ribbon designs that I created this year. I already have a few designs in the works and hope that I can get at least 1 more new design before the end of the year. What would your ultimate collar design be?

Save the Date! Boston Handmade is at Bazaar Bizarre December 4!

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Boston Handmade members are certainly out and about this holiday shopping season, and one of our stops is at the Boston Bazaar Bizarre on Sunday, December 4 at the Cyclorama. The event runs from 12pm-6pm and is always a blast. The eight Boston Handmade members representing the group this year will be:

City by the Sea Ceramics

Stray Notions

Cristina Hurley Jewelry

An Li Studio

You'll also be able to purchase a Boston Handmade tshirt from us that day. Come see us and other talented artists that afternoon, you don't want to miss this super fun event!

How-To: Thanksgiving Decor Ideas

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Jennifer T. of MaJenta Designs

With Thanksgiving coming up around the corner, I have been on the lookout for festive autumnal handmade centerpiece & decor ideas. Here are a few fun ideas I found, click the links to read their How-to instructions.

"Cornhusk flowers" by Martha Stewart

"Dried Citrus Candles" by Good House Keeping

"Glittered Pumpkin with Candle" by Woman's Day

"Conversational Placemats" by Family Fun

Uppercase Magazine

2011-11-16T07:00:00.006-05:00

by An Li Liu of An Li Liu

Hello issue #11! It finally arrived in my mailbox the other day. Uppercase is a bimonthly arts and crafts publication that features a gamut of inspiring images and stories. In my opinion, this is the most beautiful magazine around these days. It’s graphically pleasing and nice to hold.

Uppercase features some of the most talented artists working today from North America and around the world. I really like how it draws from reader participation, accepting submissions for story ideas, giving the magazine a fresh, dynamic community feel. The current issue features art that’s a “Labour of Love”, people whose work is highly detailed and labor intensive, as well as a new column by artist/entrepreneur Rena Tom who answers readers questions about their small businesses.

At present, it’s not available at any local Boston shop, so I got a subscription online. At about $20 an issue, and with so many print publications going under, it’s hard to imagine this being a success. But it seems like they’ve found an international audience who appreciates things well designed, written and produced; it’s become a coveted, collectable magazine in art circles all over. And it’s Canadian to boot!

Check out Uppercase here.

Life in a Day: Now on YouTube

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Allison of Fraske Designs

On July 24, 2010, people all over the world put their day, or portion of their day, on film to submit to the Life in a Day Project on YouTube. The long awaited feature film premiered in movie theaters on July 29, 2011. Now it is available on YouTube here:

On July 24, 2010, I was at a wedding watching the bride (and former Boston Handmade member) hula hoop. Do you know what you were doing that day?

Mosaic Monday: Coffee, Cappuccino and Espresso

2011-11-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Cappuccino Card Set of Four , by Lucie Wicker Photography
2. Vortex Pendant, by Cristina Hurley Jewelry Designs
3. Custom Hat , by Elephunk's Trunk
4. Cherry Blossom Pendant, by Nancyrosetta
5. Original paper quilt assemblage , by Reclaimed to You
6. Pink Daisies on Chocolate Brown Pocket Mirror, by MaJenta Designs
7. Owl doll collectible OOAK "JeanJean Le Tatoue" , by Hibou Designs
8. Teabowl , by City by the Sea Ceramics
9. Iridescent Arch of Savitri - stained glass necklace by Parrish Relics

JP Holiday Fair

2011-11-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

It may not feel like it yet but the holidays are quickly approaching! And that means... Boston Handmade will once again be exhibiting as a group at the annual First Church Jamaica Plain Holiday Fair! We will be up on the stage selling everything from stationary to hand-dyed yarn, photography, home goods, and much more! We will even be selling our very own Boston Handmade t-shirts as well.

So go ahead and mark your calendars for Saturday, December 3rd. We look forward to seeing you there!

First Church Jamaica Plain is located at

6 Eliot Street

Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130

New Inventory Has Arrived!

2011-11-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Cristina of Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

I'm really looking forward to a great holiday season in my shop, especially with all of the new inventory that is starting to come in from my fellow Boston Handmade members! They make such beautiful things, and my shoppers are already commenting on how nice the items are, and how cute the shop looks.

Jessica Burko of Reclaimed to You dropped off lots of beautiful hand knit scarves and hats! Go to her site for other fine pieces, artwork, and paper goods.

Jennifer Tang of Majenta Designs, makes beautiful asian inspired pendants and purse hooks.

These pieces are by Karen Mahoney, of City by the Sea Ceramics. Raku and other techniques are used to create these unique pieces.

Beautiful jewelry inspired by nature by Nancy weller, of Nancy Rosetta. She uses different metalsmithing techniques and materials to give the pieces great color and dimension.

And of course, there's always me! I am making new designs every day and getting very excited for people to see them. you can even see me making jewelry in my shop! It's also my studio.

Come visit us Wednesday through saturday, 11am-6pm...

3 Rockland Street

Canton, MA 02021

781-562-0421

Hope to see you!

Photo Show, Perks, Norwood

2011-11-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

By Kerry of Kerry Hawkins Photography

My new photo show up at the fun coffee shop Perks Coffee House in Norwood Center, 685 Washington St. Norwood, MA My show runs through December 4th. I decided to have a little fun with photoshop and go with a vintage theme. My photos are from Dedham, the Boston area and a few from my travels. Stop by and grab a cup of coffee. Perks is a great meeting place, too.

London & Paris Inspiration

2011-11-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Arthur of Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics

I just got back from an AWESOME trip to London and Paris, and let me be the first to tell you that it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! While is was in London I had to go back to the Victoria & Albert Museum. Right now they are having a show all based on craft called The Power of Making. It was amazing! Everything in the show was a "craft" there was a Japanese artist that made a real bicycle out of mahogany, one of Lady Gaga's wigs and even a gown made out of straight pins! So cool!! Unfortunately I was not able to take photos in the show because it wasn't allowed... BUT there was a piece that was outside of the exhibition.

Can you tell what the gorilla is made out of?? Bent and welded together coat hangers! It was amazing and very tall, my guess standing about 7 feet tall!

So I wanted to share a few more photos that have really inspired me from the trip to Europe and it's totally working its way into my studio life. I'm in the process of figuring out how to make a tulip pyramid or a tulipiere. I can't wait to get laid off from my full time to, only to get rehired in March so I can concentrate on my life in the studio. ENJOY!

Crafting through adversity

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

by Jessica Burko of Reclaimed To You

Members of Boston Handmade get together once a month to talk about whatever is on our minds that relates to our art, craft, business, upcoming shows, marketing, finding inspiration, you name it, we talk about it. At our recent November get-together the conversation turned to crafting through adversity; how we continue living creatively and making our work when faced with big life challenges.

As it turned out, almost everyone in the room was currently, or had been recently, dealing with hardship that forced focus elsewhere rather than on craft. The difficulties ranged from illness, to injury, to floods, to sudden changes in financial security. Through it all however, no matter how difficult the situation, it seemed that everyone was finding a way to continue creating, and that by doing so, they found strength in themselves to push on and stay calm. I found everyone's stories uplifting, and inspiring.
Sometimes working creatively can help us through tough times, sometimes we can rely on our artist friends to help us along, and sometimes we need even more assistance. The stories of our current members' situations reminded me of friends of mine who survived other tragedies and have continued on with their art despite it all. A couple of craft artists I know have also utilized assistance from an amazing organization called the Craft Emergency Relief Fund. According to their mission statement, "CERF was founded on a single simple premise: people caring for one another during tough times. Building upon the grassroots gesture of passing the hat at craft shows for artists dealing with emergency situations, CERF created an ongoing pool of funds that are available to professional craft artists when they suffer career-threatening emergencies. In addition to the financial assistance, we help acquire donated goods and services for beneficiaries from individuals, organizations and businesses."

If you are dealing with a sudden emergency and are curious about CERF's services and how they might help you, definitely check out their website. If you want to make a donation to this very worthy cause, and assist crafters in need, you can do that on their website too, "Your contribution helps CERF+ provide the immediate assistance craft artists need to get back on their feet and back to work after a career-threatening crisis." Another great way that you can assist a craft artist any time of course, is to buy handmade.

Boston Night Photos

2011-11-08T07:00:00.009-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

My photographer friend, Amy, has been wanting to do some night photos in Boston for a while. Tonight the weather was perfect so we ventured out in the downtown area to set-up some shots. We brought our tripods so we could experiment with long exposures (love turning those lights into twinkling stars!). Here are a few of mine:

I jumped into this shot for a few seconds. Can you see me? :)

Monday Mosaic: Boston Handmade Blue

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Curated by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations

1. Mug , by Arthur Halvorsen
2. Black cat square bookplates , by cricicis design
3. 1 inch Wide Dog Collar in Breakfast at Tiffanys , by Cody's Creations
4. Hair Comb Blue Origami Peace Crane , by Elephunk's Trunk
5. Lemon and Lime 166 yards of hand dyed and handspun wool , by Lady Dye Fiber Arts & Design
6. 1 Large Rectangle Japanese Chiyogami Decorated Tin by MaJenta Designs

Words of Wisdom for Creative Professionals

2011-11-06T09:25:00.002-05:00

by Lucie of Lucie Wicker Photography

I love Ira Glass, the mastermind behind This American Life. When I asked a teacher at the school I was going to at the time for advice on how to succeed in a photography career, he played this video (which is not specifically about photography). It stuck with me and I've watched it several times since then.

The main point he makes is that when you start out, what you're doing will not be as good as how it is your mind but that doesn't matter- keep at it and it will get there at some point. "The most important possible thing you could do is do a lot of work. Do a huge volume of work... the work you're making will be as good as your ambitions." ~Ira Glass

Crafting Halloween

2011-11-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

By Evan of Evan Webster Ink

Halloween is one of the greatest times of the year to learn a crafty new skill or practice an old one! There are so many costumes that it almost forces one to try something out they wouldn't normally. That's what happened to me!

I don't have a broad range of crafting skills. I generally try new things within my area of expertise, screen printing. But that all changed this year because I decided to be a rooster for Halloween.

The bright orange hoody was already hanging in my closet. It's one of about 15 hoodies so I decided it could be sacrificed in the name of being the brightest rooster in town. Someone else (thanks Marty!) made the crown and gobbles by sewing pieces of fabric together, with some stuffing in between. Then it came time to attach the gobbles and crown to the hood and that's when I realized it was time to learn how to sew by hand. With some help of my girlfriend and a root beer to get over my nervous jitters I kind of just did it.

The sewing was nothing fancy but the result was most definitely a rooster! So mission accomplished.

You didn't know roosters like to read and brush their teeth every morning?

As a side note, it was awesome to have an easy-to-wear-and-recognize costume. I had it on most of the weekend and the effect wearing a fun costume has on people is spectacular. Kids smiled and pointed and made sounds at me. And more adults smiled and said hello over the weekend than in the previous six months.

So find some inspiration and get crafting. Now I just need to figure out what to be next year. Any suggestions?

1 Year Anniversary Open House this Saturday, Nov. 5th!

2011-11-04T07:00:00.002-04:00

by Cristina of Cristina Hurley Jewelry Design

Come join me this Saturday, November 5th to celebrate my 1 Year Anniversary in my studio/shop!

I've been working hard to spruce up the place, and have really made it into what I imagined my little shop would be.

There will be refreshments, music, a free raffle, tarot card readings, and much more!

Come visit anytime during the hours of 10 am and 6pm. You will get to see some of my new designs too!

Cristina Hurley Jewelry
3 Rockland Street
Canton, MA
781-562-0421

Hope to see you! It will be lots of fun!

Gig 365

2011-11-03T07:00:00.001-04:00

by Allison of Fraske Designs

Musician Michael Ward-Bergeman has vowed to play a music gig each day of 2011 in a different place. All kinds of venues, all kinds of music. His project has taken him and his accordion all over the world this year, either performing with another musical act or solo. Some of the gigs were scheduled in advance, but many are finalized day-of. Venues have included traditional music halls and also less expected locations such retail businesses, car washes, wineries, or town squares.

The year is coming to a close... will Michael be performing near you before 2012? Check out the GIG 365 blog to find out!

Part 2: Interview with Hibou Designs

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

by Anne-Claire of Hibou Designs

Q: What do you love most about what you make?

A: The freedom to make what I want.

Q: What is your biggest obstacle with it?

A: The freedom to make what I want ;)

Q: Are there other mediums you’re not working in that interest you?

A: Yes, I would like to explore with fabric you can paint on but I don't know if I'll ever get around to it and some people are already doing it very well! I think the best example for this can be found at the amazing shop called CartBeforetheHorse. I own one of Dylan and Jo's work and I'm looking forward to collect some more.

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of in your work?

A: To have my work published in the pages of Stuffed Magazine alongside amazingly talented people! My creations are currently in the Summer issue 2011 and they’ll be again (jumping up and down in excitement!) in the Winter 2012 issue.

Q: What’s your most interesting fair/show experience?

A: I am very happy to be part of the excellent plush art show called Plush You! for the second time around at Kristen Rask's gallery/shop Schmancy in Seattle. I'm also excited to have been selected for Boston Bazaar Bizarre again this year. This is a really good craft show and there is nothing I like more than meeting my clients in person.

Q: Why should people buy handmade?

A: Because handmade objects have a soul.

Q: Name a few of your favorite books, movies, songs/musical groups, and food.

A: All Radiohead, Dave Brubeck’s Koto Song, any book by Stefan Zweig, can’t choose a favorite painting because I like too many, There will be Blood or any movie with Daniel Day Lewis, chocolate and anything from a pig (I'm French and I cannot live without pate, ham, saucisson, bacon... now I'm hungry ;).

Q: Read any good books lately?

A :Philip Kerr – the Berlin trilogy (and now reading the following ones)

Q: If you were an animal, which one would you be?

A: A cat... my maiden name being Minet this really fits me!

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a Sunday morning?

A: Reading the paper or a magazine with a latte and an awesome breakfast (with bacon!).

I think that's about it for now. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions (or tweet me hello!) and check out my shop which is now called HibouDesigns (Etsy recently allowed us to change our shop name if we wished and I changed mine from Hiboucards to HibouDesigns). You can also see my whole portfolio on my Flickr account.

Happy crafting!

Cheers, Anne-Claire aka Hibou