Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Monday, March 24, 2014
2014 Goals - 2 down, 12 to go!!
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Shoutout to Laura of Sun Flower Freckles
 |
| It's a family affair! |
Name
Laura Decato
Business Name(s)
SunFlowerFreckles
Date Business Was Opened/Created
September 2012
Types of Items/Services Offered
Sewing - Clothes, Bows, Bags, Belts, Toys, etc
Sewing - Clothes, Bows, Bags, Belts, Toys, etc
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Shoutout to Beth & Jen of Parris House Wool Works!
Beth and Jen are bringing back the traditional North American rug hooking techniques and designs...and let me tell you, the rugs are absolutely stunning! Works of fiber art that I'm not so sure I would be able to wipe my feet on!
Name: Beth Miller
Business Name(s): Parris House Wool Works
Date Business Was Opened/Created: 2011
Types of Items/Services Offered: Jen and I offer everything you
need for the art of traditional North American rug hooking, including
original patterns on linen ( primitive, traditional, and contemporary),
the best quality wools (hand dyed by us and also off the bolt), hooks,
our own Maine made and personally designed rug hooking frames, hooks,
binding tape, you name it. Additionally we consign items from other
Maine artisans including frame covers, snip pockets, hand spun and dyed
yarns, and knitting bags. We also will be introducing hand made, all
natural soaps and vintage hand picked items to our shop in 2014, as
well as our own line of custom turned hooks, again, made in Maine.
Additionally, we teach our craft in both our Maine and Tennessee studios
and offer hooking nights for hookers to share their craft, chat, and
have tasty refreshments.
 |
| Beth |
Business Name(s): Parris House Wool Works
Date Business Was Opened/Created: 2011
 |
| Jen |
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Shoutout to Kerin of Pipsqueaks!
I know I've said it before...but I'll say it again... I really LOVE the Etsy Maine Team. Why, you may ask? Because I have the opportunity to "meet" (even if just virtually for the near future) so many wonderfully talented individuals! We are all crafty in our own way, and seeing others' artistic/creative expressions has always been an inspiration for me. We all have our back story.. and if you "listen" closely, you can decipher some of it in by the quality of craftsmanship in our wares.
Without further adieu....meet Kerin!
Without further adieu....meet Kerin!
 |
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Shoutout to Katrina of Amphitrite Studio!
Etsy Maine Team members come through yet again! Meet Katrina, a fiber fashionista, if you will. LOL
Name: Katrina Napolitan
Business Name(s): Amphitrite Studio
Date Business Was Opened: 2000
Types of Items Offered:
I offer natural fiber, one of a kind women's fashions &
accessories all handmade by myself in midcoast Maine.
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Shoutout to Cheri of Art By Cheri
Cheri is a fellow Etsy Maine Team member and a very talented artist! I can attest to her skill as a painter.. her watercolors are gorgeous! She is also a piano teacher. So if you're looking to learn how to stroke the ivories... definitely get in touch with her!
 |
| Piano by Cheri |
Name: Cheri Christenson
Business
Name(s):
Piano by Cheri
Art by Cheri
Date
Business Was Opened: October 2013 on
Etsy.
Types of
Items Offered: Piano lessons (in person)
and on Etsy: watercolor cards,
watercolor artwork, watercolor beads, soon to come, hand painted scarves
Why did you
decide to open/start your own business?: I got into watercolor a few years ago and fell
in love with it. last year I sold a few of my paintings as cards, so this year I thought I would broaden my horizons.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Always Learning - Ceramic Mug Critique
There has been a lot of talk about how bad Social Media can be for us and our youth...But when used appropriately, it can also be a GREAT help to those that are home bound for a variety of reasons. I've been lucky enough to have been invited and/or accepted into various pottery/ceramic centered groups on Facebook. I've mentioned "clay buddies" in the past. A new group I've been welcomed into is "pottery critiques". I took a big gulp and submitted one of my mugs for critiquing. There are some AMAZING potters/ceramic artists that are members of this group. Some of whom I follow through their blogs and other means and truly value/appreciate their opinions. Anyway..getting off topic. :) I thought I would share the mug I posted for critique and some of the insights offered by some well respected artists in the ceramic community. :)
I call this my "camo" mug as inspired by the hubby. He asked me to make a camo (woodland, not digital) mug and this is what I came up with. Inside is glazed blaze orange, green/red leaves, and iron ore for the mug itself. The handle has been carved to try and mimic the natural wood/branch texture. It's available in my Etsy shop if you're interested.. :)
Without further adieu...here is the advice/critiques I was given:
.jpg) |
| Oak Leaf Camo Mug |
Without further adieu...here is the advice/critiques I was given:
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Shoutout to JustinCredible Pottery!
I don't know Justin in person... but we potters are crazy.. and make close connections via a variety of online groups and communities. I met Justin through one such group, "Clay Buddies" on Facebook. (Side note...I REALLY LOVE THAT GROUP! :) )
Name: Justin DeWitt
Business Name(s): JustinCredible Pottery
Date Business Was Opened: June 2013
Types of Items Offered: Oddball one of a kind functional
pottery
Why did you decide to open/start your own business?: I
needed someplace to put my excess pottery, so why not sell it and get paid
What is your inspiration?: Still working on that…….. :P My family, to constantly better myself
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Shoutout to Oberleigh Images
 |
| Dahlia |
 |
| Pelican Halo |
Business Name: Oberleigh Images
Date Business Was Opened: October 1, 2013 on Etsy
Types of Items Offered: Nature & Floral Photo Wall Art – mounted, ready to hang in sets of three /triptychs
Friday, December 13, 2013
Twas The Night Before Christmas...
I know it's been a while... please forgive me! It's been a busy few months!! I plan on streamlining my ceramic lines. I hope that by doing this I can actually create inventory to keep on hand and have readily accessible/quick to ship items. I'm thinking a dragonfly line... hummingbirds... and I already offer a somewhat exclusive ocean inspired line to two shops; one in Kennebunkport, Maine, and one in Florida... I'll be writing more about that later! :)
For now, I really wanted to share a poem with you that my husband wrote shortly after we met. Grab your hanky or a box of tissues... I bawled my eyes out the first time I read it. I still can't read it without shedding a tear. :) Here is the link to the original on Facebook : Military - Twas The Night Before Christmas; by J.A. Barnes
================================================================
MILITARY - TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Twas’ the Night before Christmas, And out in the sand,
A soldier was on guard duty, weapon safely in hand.
The dune was completely still, not even the wind stirred.
His eyes scanned the horizon, a plan of action inferred.
His team was in slumber, dreaming of their loved ones miles away.
Seeing the faces of their children ,and the smiles they’d wear later that day.
The soldier remained on alert, as he continued to scan into the black.
Occasionaley sipping coffee, and pulling out his MRE for a snack.
When from out of the darkness there arose a loud sound,
The soldier snapped the safety off his weapon and prepared to throw down.
He sighted down the barrel, and steadied his hands.
Prepared to lay down his own life, prepared to make his last stand.
At first it was just sounds, those that sounded of bells.
But from which direction they were coming, the soldier could not yet tell.
When out from the clouds, the moon did appear.
Lighting up the sand as though daytime and revealing eight tinny reindeer.
With a white bearded driver, dressed head to toe in red.
The soldier still unsure, put the sights to his head.
As he hollered and laughed and called out each name,
The soldier wanted to believe his eyes, but held his target just the same.
“Now Dasher, now Dancer, Now Prancer, and Vixen. On Comit, On Cupid, On Doner and Blitzen!
There are men and women about, who sacrifice themselves for the free!
We’re going to thank them all tonight, before any presents go under the trees!”
He reached behind him, and slowly pulled from his sack,
A large wooden pole, with a white flag on the back.
Standing from his sleigh, he began to wave his hands,
Signaling his good intentions, to alert the soldier man.
The soldier waved him forward while remaining at the ready,
He radioed to his command, his hands never unsteady.
As St. Nick approached, he did exactly as he was told.
Holding his hands within sight, he wasn’t there to be bold.
The soldier could hear the deer breathing, and see the smile on Santa’s face.
As the sleight came to a stop, and he stepped out with grace.
“Good evening my dear boy, and Merry Christmas to you all.
We have a special gift for you, soldiers one and all.
Backup arrived and Santa accepted his search without a sound,
He completely understood their caution, for many brothers and sisters had gone down.
As they completed their job, even checking the bag in the sleigh.
They gave the thumbs up, Santa was ok.
As he stepped back a bit, his hands began to shake and his knees became weak.
A tear dropped from his eye, as he slowly began to speak.
“My list of nice and naughty is very hard to compile.
But the men and women of the military are at the top by a mile.”
“You ask for nothing in return, but your life your ready to give.
You sacrifice your body, your hearts, so that others may live.
You may only require a thank you once in awhile but you see that just won’t do.
I’m here to bring the magic of Christmas to each and every one of you.”
He stepped to the sleigh and removed his toy sack.
It was a velvety red, with a gold stripe down the back.
And as he moved in close, his suit began to change color,
It became a combination off all the services BDU’s, a suit unlike any other.
“You may not have known this, but I’ve been in battle myself.
I wasn’t always Santa, and my workers not always Elf’s.”
As he spoke with a grin, and a twinkle in his eye,
He reached into his bag and let out a large sigh.
“I’m sorry to say I can’t end this war, and I can’t send you home.
It wouldn’t matter anyways, as you wouldn’t leave your unit alone.
So what I have here, is just a little treat of Christmas spirit,
Take a moment to relax, as you get to see and to hear it.”
With his final word, the bag began to glow.
It levitated above the ground, and began a picture show.
There were children with smiles, and families left back home,
Playful pets and Christmas trees, and even a saluting Gnome.
There was laughing and a few tears as moments were remembered.
And a few silent prayers for those lives who had been surrendered.
As Santa stood back and took in the sight,
He knew the country would always be ok as long as there were these brave men and women to fight.
As the show shed its final light, and everyone returned to order.
Santa began to shake hands, and to thank each soldier.
He made his way back to the sled, before resetting his sack and stepping in.
His shoulders slumped forward for a moment, as he ran his finger through the hair on his chin.
“As much as I’d like to stay, it is my duty to go.
So many stops to make tonight, at each station throughout the world.
But as you're celebrating here, with your family number two.
Don’t ever forget those people at home that love and appreciate you.”
“Back in the states, there are people you’ll never know.
Who love and appreciate, the continuous courage that you show.
The men and women of the services are the bravest in the world.
And make it safe for me to bring joy to every little boy and girl.”
As the sleigh began to move and started to lift to the air.
He dropped down a package to each soldier standing there.
It wasn’t a gift that could be heard or for that matter even seen.
It was instead the thanks and feeling, the knowledge of what they really mean.
With the sleigh going up and pulling out of sight,
Santa hollered back to them, “Merry Christmas and Thank you, because of you we sleep safe tonight.”
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to the men and women abroad who serve our country every day. Your sacrifice and courage do not go unnoticed. God bless the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Maine Corps, and Coast Guard!!
================================================================
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanuka, Happy Kwanza, Happy New Year, and any/every holiday I may be missing!
Please feel free to share the blog post, share the poem.. it deserves to go viral! Not just because he's my husband...but because it's an amazing, heartfelt poem that rings true to so many...
For now, I really wanted to share a poem with you that my husband wrote shortly after we met. Grab your hanky or a box of tissues... I bawled my eyes out the first time I read it. I still can't read it without shedding a tear. :) Here is the link to the original on Facebook : Military - Twas The Night Before Christmas; by J.A. Barnes
================================================================
MILITARY - TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Twas’ the Night before Christmas, And out in the sand,
A soldier was on guard duty, weapon safely in hand.
The dune was completely still, not even the wind stirred.
His eyes scanned the horizon, a plan of action inferred.
His team was in slumber, dreaming of their loved ones miles away.
Seeing the faces of their children ,and the smiles they’d wear later that day.
The soldier remained on alert, as he continued to scan into the black.
Occasionaley sipping coffee, and pulling out his MRE for a snack.
When from out of the darkness there arose a loud sound,
The soldier snapped the safety off his weapon and prepared to throw down.
He sighted down the barrel, and steadied his hands.
Prepared to lay down his own life, prepared to make his last stand.
At first it was just sounds, those that sounded of bells.
But from which direction they were coming, the soldier could not yet tell.
When out from the clouds, the moon did appear.
Lighting up the sand as though daytime and revealing eight tinny reindeer.
With a white bearded driver, dressed head to toe in red.
The soldier still unsure, put the sights to his head.
As he hollered and laughed and called out each name,
The soldier wanted to believe his eyes, but held his target just the same.
“Now Dasher, now Dancer, Now Prancer, and Vixen. On Comit, On Cupid, On Doner and Blitzen!
There are men and women about, who sacrifice themselves for the free!
We’re going to thank them all tonight, before any presents go under the trees!”
He reached behind him, and slowly pulled from his sack,
A large wooden pole, with a white flag on the back.
Standing from his sleigh, he began to wave his hands,
Signaling his good intentions, to alert the soldier man.
The soldier waved him forward while remaining at the ready,
He radioed to his command, his hands never unsteady.
As St. Nick approached, he did exactly as he was told.
Holding his hands within sight, he wasn’t there to be bold.
The soldier could hear the deer breathing, and see the smile on Santa’s face.
As the sleight came to a stop, and he stepped out with grace.
“Good evening my dear boy, and Merry Christmas to you all.
We have a special gift for you, soldiers one and all.
Backup arrived and Santa accepted his search without a sound,
He completely understood their caution, for many brothers and sisters had gone down.
As they completed their job, even checking the bag in the sleigh.
They gave the thumbs up, Santa was ok.
As he stepped back a bit, his hands began to shake and his knees became weak.
A tear dropped from his eye, as he slowly began to speak.
“My list of nice and naughty is very hard to compile.
But the men and women of the military are at the top by a mile.”
“You ask for nothing in return, but your life your ready to give.
You sacrifice your body, your hearts, so that others may live.
You may only require a thank you once in awhile but you see that just won’t do.
I’m here to bring the magic of Christmas to each and every one of you.”
He stepped to the sleigh and removed his toy sack.
It was a velvety red, with a gold stripe down the back.
And as he moved in close, his suit began to change color,
It became a combination off all the services BDU’s, a suit unlike any other.
“You may not have known this, but I’ve been in battle myself.
I wasn’t always Santa, and my workers not always Elf’s.”
As he spoke with a grin, and a twinkle in his eye,
He reached into his bag and let out a large sigh.
“I’m sorry to say I can’t end this war, and I can’t send you home.
It wouldn’t matter anyways, as you wouldn’t leave your unit alone.
So what I have here, is just a little treat of Christmas spirit,
Take a moment to relax, as you get to see and to hear it.”
With his final word, the bag began to glow.
It levitated above the ground, and began a picture show.
There were children with smiles, and families left back home,
Playful pets and Christmas trees, and even a saluting Gnome.
There was laughing and a few tears as moments were remembered.
And a few silent prayers for those lives who had been surrendered.
As Santa stood back and took in the sight,
He knew the country would always be ok as long as there were these brave men and women to fight.
As the show shed its final light, and everyone returned to order.
Santa began to shake hands, and to thank each soldier.
He made his way back to the sled, before resetting his sack and stepping in.
His shoulders slumped forward for a moment, as he ran his finger through the hair on his chin.
“As much as I’d like to stay, it is my duty to go.
So many stops to make tonight, at each station throughout the world.
But as you're celebrating here, with your family number two.
Don’t ever forget those people at home that love and appreciate you.”
“Back in the states, there are people you’ll never know.
Who love and appreciate, the continuous courage that you show.
The men and women of the services are the bravest in the world.
And make it safe for me to bring joy to every little boy and girl.”
As the sleigh began to move and started to lift to the air.
He dropped down a package to each soldier standing there.
It wasn’t a gift that could be heard or for that matter even seen.
It was instead the thanks and feeling, the knowledge of what they really mean.
With the sleigh going up and pulling out of sight,
Santa hollered back to them, “Merry Christmas and Thank you, because of you we sleep safe tonight.”
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to the men and women abroad who serve our country every day. Your sacrifice and courage do not go unnoticed. God bless the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Maine Corps, and Coast Guard!!
================================================================
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanuka, Happy Kwanza, Happy New Year, and any/every holiday I may be missing!
Please feel free to share the blog post, share the poem.. it deserves to go viral! Not just because he's my husband...but because it's an amazing, heartfelt poem that rings true to so many...
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Etsy Maine Team 2nd Annual Cash Mob
I am a proud member of the Etsy Maine Team. For those of you who aren't familiar with Etsy, it is an online forum for craftsmen and artisans to sell their wares. There are also teams where you are able to join, and network with like minded people. Teams are created by interests, location, and many other variables. Now...for the good news...
Mark your calendars! November 8, we're hosting our 2nd Annual Cash Mob! Like it says on the poster, just visit www.etsy.com, type the word maineteam into the search bar and find thousands upon thousands of great items - all from Maine. Perfect opportunity to start your holiday shopping...and all from the comfort of your home...in your PJ's even!! See you then!
Please share this with your friends, on your blog, Facebook, Pinterest, and any other social media avenues you have available. You will be supporting small businesses that hand create each and every single piece listed. You can rest easy knowing that all items are made in the USA.
https://www.facebook.com/MaineTeam
You can find my shop at www.etsy.com/shop/jsbarts
Mark your calendars! November 8, we're hosting our 2nd Annual Cash Mob! Like it says on the poster, just visit www.etsy.com, type the word maineteam into the search bar and find thousands upon thousands of great items - all from Maine. Perfect opportunity to start your holiday shopping...and all from the comfort of your home...in your PJ's even!! See you then!
Please share this with your friends, on your blog, Facebook, Pinterest, and any other social media avenues you have available. You will be supporting small businesses that hand create each and every single piece listed. You can rest easy knowing that all items are made in the USA.
https://www.facebook.com/MaineTeam
You can find my shop at www.etsy.com/shop/jsbarts
Monday, June 24, 2013
Mudita Monday - Asha Fenn
As a fairly new ceramic artist/potter, I have been VERY lucky and blessed to have made acquaintance with some amazing fellow artisans who have been more than happy to share their tips of the trade with me. So periodically, I will be sharing their successes as part of Mudita Mondays. Many other occupations/people would consider this odd and would see them as direct competition. For the most part, ceramicists and potters are a VERY jovial and sharing group of people. We do what we do because we want to and because we LOVE it. Having our hand in clay is as much of who we are as the clothes we are and the air we breathe.
I would not have found this hidden part of who I am without the amazing Asha Fenn. She started off as my instructor, transitioned into my mentor, and has since become a very good friend. She has the Pottery, Art & Writing Studio & Showroom off of US Route 1 in Stockton Springs, Maine. Here, she primarily teaches pottery, but is able to teach a wide variety of painting skills and writing prowess. She now has her pottery pieces in 11 galleries across the state of Maine. She was the master-mind behind Maine Artists Group and continues to run the group as well as the online store/website. She has shared glaze recipes with me, tips and tricks when I am having issues with my throwing. In the last year, her outreach has grown exponentially and I could not be more proud of her as my mentor, and more happy for her as my friend. Congratulations Asha!!! I am sooo happy for your growth in the last 12 months!!! OH!! I almost forgot to mention...she is also a member of the prestigious Maine Made organization!
Namaste my friend!! Mudita!!
To find Asha please click on the links above. She can be found on Facebook, Twitter, her business website and blog. The links listed below are those for her Pottery, Art & Writing Studio & Showroom business:
FACEBOOK -- https://www.facebook.com/PotteryArtWritingStudio
TWITTER -- https://twitter.com/pawstudio/
WEBPAGE -- http://www.potteryartwritingstudio.com/
BLOG -- http://www.ashafenn.com/ashafenn/
I would not have found this hidden part of who I am without the amazing Asha Fenn. She started off as my instructor, transitioned into my mentor, and has since become a very good friend. She has the Pottery, Art & Writing Studio & Showroom off of US Route 1 in Stockton Springs, Maine. Here, she primarily teaches pottery, but is able to teach a wide variety of painting skills and writing prowess. She now has her pottery pieces in 11 galleries across the state of Maine. She was the master-mind behind Maine Artists Group and continues to run the group as well as the online store/website. She has shared glaze recipes with me, tips and tricks when I am having issues with my throwing. In the last year, her outreach has grown exponentially and I could not be more proud of her as my mentor, and more happy for her as my friend. Congratulations Asha!!! I am sooo happy for your growth in the last 12 months!!! OH!! I almost forgot to mention...she is also a member of the prestigious Maine Made organization!
Namaste my friend!! Mudita!!
To find Asha please click on the links above. She can be found on Facebook, Twitter, her business website and blog. The links listed below are those for her Pottery, Art & Writing Studio & Showroom business:
FACEBOOK -- https://www.facebook.com/PotteryArtWritingStudio
TWITTER -- https://twitter.com/pawstudio/
WEBPAGE -- http://www.potteryartwritingstudio.com/
BLOG -- http://www.ashafenn.com/ashafenn/
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Apple Valley Bookstore
.jpg)
Thanks to my Kickstarter project, I was contacted by Eric of Apple Valley Books in Winthrop, Maine. He expressed an interest in having some of my items there on consignment, and of course, I jumped on that opportunity!! :) Took me a little while but I got some items sent down to Winthrop (which is roughly 5 hours from where I live in Wallagrass) and they have it put up on display.Taken from their Facebook page:
.jpg)
We're an independent bookshop on Main Street in
Winthrop selling new (upstairs) and used (downstairs) books. We want to
be your personal booksellers!
We are happy to special order books for you! Give us a call or stop on by!We offer 20% discount on most books and can often find out-of-print books, as well. Please support your local bookseller...:)
"We vote with our wallets. And if you care about the unique character of your community, if you believe in rewarding the rugged independence of small businesses, then your local independent bookstore deserves your support, now more than ever. This is an admittedly counter-cultural effort—but that is part of its appeal and sense of purpose.
Bookstores are different than other stores—they reflect the soul of a community. They are a place for meeting, browsing and reflecting. You bump into friends and neighbors, and see a book on the shelf you might have never crossed paths with before. They offer time for contemplation and conversation."
- John Avlon of Book Beast
You can find them on Facebook HERE.
They're website is: www.applevalleybooks.com/
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Mudita Monday - 10 June 2013
My Mudita Monday...a day late. My apologies!
Today, I want to recognize an Etsy seller, who has become a very good friend. We've never met face to face, though we have conversations as if we've been friends forever and are meeting for a cup of coffee. We are both planning our weddings, and I am soo happy for her success in her Etsy shop, as well as in her life. She is kind hearted, friendly, caring, and always goes the extra mile; not only in business relations, but in personal as well. She is always sending me ideas for my ceramics and offering me inspiration; letting me know that I am on her mind, even if we haven't chatted in the last few days.
Today, I want to celebrate Mei Ho, of Myoga Craft Cave & Etchy Things. You can find her Etsy shop HERE.
She is also on Facebook. You can find her business page HERE.
You can find her website HERE.
THANK YOU Mei, for your friendship, our business partnership, and helping to spread the idea/concept of mudita. I am blessed to have you as a friend, and wish you nothing but prosperity, happiness, and much success!!
Today, I want to recognize an Etsy seller, who has become a very good friend. We've never met face to face, though we have conversations as if we've been friends forever and are meeting for a cup of coffee. We are both planning our weddings, and I am soo happy for her success in her Etsy shop, as well as in her life. She is kind hearted, friendly, caring, and always goes the extra mile; not only in business relations, but in personal as well. She is always sending me ideas for my ceramics and offering me inspiration; letting me know that I am on her mind, even if we haven't chatted in the last few days.
Today, I want to celebrate Mei Ho, of Myoga Craft Cave & Etchy Things. You can find her Etsy shop HERE.She is also on Facebook. You can find her business page HERE.
You can find her website HERE.
THANK YOU Mei, for your friendship, our business partnership, and helping to spread the idea/concept of mudita. I am blessed to have you as a friend, and wish you nothing but prosperity, happiness, and much success!!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Shoutout For Spruce Cottage Knits
Day 4 of 10
(In a society dominated by big name box stores, it is quite refreshing to network, interact, and shop from small businesses. Especially when they are local! For 10 days, I will be talking about 10 small businesses that I have the pleasure of having made their acquaintance. Networking is everything, as is reaching out a helping hand to your peers and neighbors.)
So after a long hiatus...I continue on the 10 features in 10 days. I apologize to those who have been waiting for me to make good on my word. It's been a whirlwind of health ups and downs..
Spruce Cottage Knits is run by a very passionate "Maine-ah", Norma Lee Gunn out of Hampden, Maine. She is a a valuable asset and team member to the Etsy Maine Team, bringing 35 years of experience to the table.
Norma knits with nothing but quality yarn. She uses superwash wool, cotton, soy, bamboo. She is a big fan of using homegrown, local Maine wool as well as Opal's new Harry Potter sock yarns! Her expertise includes knit socks, mittens, scarves, hats, sweaters, and even Ipod holders. Each and every piece she works on is infused with the love and passion she has for her craft. It takes time to knit socks with sock yarn and tiny needles. Her favorite thing to knit are socks, despite the tedious nature of it! There is nothing like the warmth of hand knit items when it's cold.
Her items are TOO CUTE!!! I wish I had a little baby girl to spoil rotten with some of these items! I'm not a big fan of Hello Kitty attire myself, but I know it's popular with the little ones. Look at these pants!! You can find them in her Etsy store (click HERE).
I'm a sucker for anything and everything ocean/coastal. These blue/green/brown socks remind me of sitting on the beach, watching the ocean waves crash onto the shore. LOVE!!
She is very diversified as a business woman as well! She has Facebook established, an Etsy storefront, and Ravelry to boot!
(In a society dominated by big name box stores, it is quite refreshing to network, interact, and shop from small businesses. Especially when they are local! For 10 days, I will be talking about 10 small businesses that I have the pleasure of having made their acquaintance. Networking is everything, as is reaching out a helping hand to your peers and neighbors.)
So after a long hiatus...I continue on the 10 features in 10 days. I apologize to those who have been waiting for me to make good on my word. It's been a whirlwind of health ups and downs..
Spruce Cottage Knits is run by a very passionate "Maine-ah", Norma Lee Gunn out of Hampden, Maine. She is a a valuable asset and team member to the Etsy Maine Team, bringing 35 years of experience to the table. Norma knits with nothing but quality yarn. She uses superwash wool, cotton, soy, bamboo. She is a big fan of using homegrown, local Maine wool as well as Opal's new Harry Potter sock yarns! Her expertise includes knit socks, mittens, scarves, hats, sweaters, and even Ipod holders. Each and every piece she works on is infused with the love and passion she has for her craft. It takes time to knit socks with sock yarn and tiny needles. Her favorite thing to knit are socks, despite the tedious nature of it! There is nothing like the warmth of hand knit items when it's cold.
Her items are TOO CUTE!!! I wish I had a little baby girl to spoil rotten with some of these items! I'm not a big fan of Hello Kitty attire myself, but I know it's popular with the little ones. Look at these pants!! You can find them in her Etsy store (click HERE).
I'm a sucker for anything and everything ocean/coastal. These blue/green/brown socks remind me of sitting on the beach, watching the ocean waves crash onto the shore. LOVE!!
She is very diversified as a business woman as well! She has Facebook established, an Etsy storefront, and Ravelry to boot!
Thanks for stopping by to support small, local businesses!! Please continue to follow me the next 6 days for more shoutouts to small businesses!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Time for a little Kickstart..
I've been busy working on a little project the last several days. Though I do my best in my little home pottery studio, there are still tasks that need to be done that are very difficult for me to accomplish with the equipment I have available. I LOVE what I do. I infuse my emotions into each and every piece I make. My heart and soul goes into my work. Clay absorbs the sorrow, the pain and hurt, the joy of accomplishing a new level in a task... It heals all wounds...for me. With all this in mind, there are various pieces of equipment that will greatly help me as I continue this endeavor. SO, I created a Kickstarter project. For those of you that have linked up with through Facebook, you may have already seen the link. For those of you that haven't, here is the little blurb I have been sharing. :)
"The last week, I have been quietly working on a project, reaching out to a few people for guidance and advice. Well, today, it goes public! I have started a Kickstarter project to help achieve some goals with expansion for my business. This will help make creating pottery so much easier. Please check out the page, spread the word, and help me achieve this new milestone!
Freedom Through Clay - Kickstarter Project "
Many of the pledge rewards are NEW items, not yet released to the public. My Kickstarter backers will be the first ones to receive these new creations in my new line of ware...inspired by dragonflies!
If you have a moment, please look through the project and considering lending a helping hand. If you can't pledge anything, no worries! The key is to get the word spread out through the digital web. Sharing is caring, right? :) So share away and help me accomplish this goal!!
Coming soon:
Feature on Spruce Cottage Knits!!
"The last week, I have been quietly working on a project, reaching out to a few people for guidance and advice. Well, today, it goes public! I have started a Kickstarter project to help achieve some goals with expansion for my business. This will help make creating pottery so much easier. Please check out the page, spread the word, and help me achieve this new milestone!
Freedom Through Clay - Kickstarter Project "
Many of the pledge rewards are NEW items, not yet released to the public. My Kickstarter backers will be the first ones to receive these new creations in my new line of ware...inspired by dragonflies!
If you have a moment, please look through the project and considering lending a helping hand. If you can't pledge anything, no worries! The key is to get the word spread out through the digital web. Sharing is caring, right? :) So share away and help me accomplish this goal!!
Coming soon:
Feature on Spruce Cottage Knits!!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Been a while...
So I have been thinking that I've only been MIA for a month...but my last post was nearly two months ago!! My apologies! It's definitely been a roller coaster few months. My health has decided to throw some wrenches in the generally day to day life. Haven't been able to work as much in the studio as I have wanted...nor have I had the where-with-all to do all the computer and bookkeeping work needed...like I still have to file my taxes for the biz... I have 2 more weeks to get with it! Let's hope it doesn't take me that long!
In other news... a New England magazine featured my garden stakes! AND I'm listed as #1 of the 4!!! I was SOOOOO excited!! Here is the link if you have a few moments to check it out:
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And believe it or not...my kiln was FULL...4 half shelves and 2 full shelves! I have a smaller, home-studio sized kiln. it works for me and the size space we have. As you can see...LOTS of handbuilding going on in the Mayo house. I have a hard time throwing for any long period of time unfortunately, because of pain and weakness in my legs. *SIGH* But that's ok.
On a final note...For those of you who commented on my Facebook post about the first 10 businesses to comment I would leave feedback/feature for ya...I promise you I haven't forgotten! As I said earlier... life and health kind of got in the way! I will working on those features in the coming days, so stay tuned!!
In other news... a New England magazine featured my garden stakes! AND I'm listed as #1 of the 4!!! I was SOOOOO excited!! Here is the link if you have a few moments to check it out:
On March 29, I unloaded a glaze kiln full of goodies. MOST everything turned out the way I wanted and was hoping for.
On a final note...For those of you who commented on my Facebook post about the first 10 businesses to comment I would leave feedback/feature for ya...I promise you I haven't forgotten! As I said earlier... life and health kind of got in the way! I will working on those features in the coming days, so stay tuned!!
Monday, February 4, 2013
Shoutout for Four Winds Farm
Day 3 of 10
Four Winds Farm in Maine is run by Jan Winsor. After purchasing their farmhouse in 1997, she met members of the Saco Valley Fiber Artists and discovered that she could combine her love of animals, art, and teaching into one endeavor. They now have a small flock of sheep, along with a variety of other animals at Four Winds Farm. Jan is a very talented fiber artist offering felted, knit, and woven fiber arts and sculptures. She also hand spins her own wool! Wool sculptures?!? you may ask. Look again at the adorable little lab picture...That is a felted wool sculpture...NOT their pet!
(In a society dominated by big name box stores, it is quite refreshing to
network, interact, and shop from small businesses. Especially when
they are local! For 10 days, I will be talking about 10 small
businesses that I have the pleasure of having made their acquaintance.
Networking is everything, as is reaching out a helping hand to your
peers and neighbors.)
Four Winds Farm in Maine is run by Jan Winsor. After purchasing their farmhouse in 1997, she met members of the Saco Valley Fiber Artists and discovered that she could combine her love of animals, art, and teaching into one endeavor. They now have a small flock of sheep, along with a variety of other animals at Four Winds Farm. Jan is a very talented fiber artist offering felted, knit, and woven fiber arts and sculptures. She also hand spins her own wool! Wool sculptures?!? you may ask. Look again at the adorable little lab picture...That is a felted wool sculpture...NOT their pet!
Her Facebook page is full of many more examples of exquisite felted sculptures and felted soap. Need a souvenir of Maine? Why not lobster felted soap??? 
In a world where everything is mass produced and you never know where your purchases are REALLY coming from...Four Winds Farm Maine makes us all feel a little bit better. All of her wool products are produced right at her own farm. Meet Josie and Morgan, twins, displaying their gorgeous winter coats. :)
She has her own website, www.fourwindsfarmmaine.com which you can find by copying and pasting the web address, or by clicking HERE.
Thanks for stopping by to support small, local businesses!! Please continue to follow me the next 7 days for more shoutouts to small businesses!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Shoutout for Friesen Art
Day 2 of 10
Daisy Friesen of McPherson, Kansas is the mastermind behind Friesen Art. She is a VERY talented ceramic artist and I feel honored to call her my friend. She finds great joy in being able to take a lump of clay and transform it into something useful and beautiful with her hands. She also finds the process calming and relaxing. "I love being able to make something that someone else will cherish and be able to use to serve lovingly prepared food to friends and family." You can see the love of the process in each and every piece of her pottery.
One thing I truly love about being a ceramic artist myself, is that the community of ceramic artists is soo amazingly helpful and inspiring. Daisy is not different. I WISH I was capable of some of the pieces she creates. This GORGEOUS lamp from her Etsy store is just an example of one of her pieces that inspires me. For the every day person who values a good mug for that cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, here is a wonderful mug for just that!! Also from her Etsy store. I LOVE the bright blue glaze she uses!! She also stays true to her "branding". Most all of her pieces feature the wheat design.
(In a society dominated by big name box stores, it is quite refreshing to
network, interact, and shop from small businesses. Especially when
they are local! For 10 days, I will be talking about 10 small
businesses that I have the pleasure of having made their acquaintance.
Networking is everything, as is reaching out a helping hand to your
peers and neighbors.)
Daisy Friesen of McPherson, Kansas is the mastermind behind Friesen Art. She is a VERY talented ceramic artist and I feel honored to call her my friend. She finds great joy in being able to take a lump of clay and transform it into something useful and beautiful with her hands. She also finds the process calming and relaxing. "I love being able to make something that someone else will cherish and be able to use to serve lovingly prepared food to friends and family." You can see the love of the process in each and every piece of her pottery.
Her Facebook page is full of photos so you can see the process and what it takes for her pieces to come to fruition. I LOVE these dragon fly dessert plates!!
One thing I truly love about being a ceramic artist myself, is that the community of ceramic artists is soo amazingly helpful and inspiring. Daisy is not different. I WISH I was capable of some of the pieces she creates. This GORGEOUS lamp from her Etsy store is just an example of one of her pieces that inspires me. For the every day person who values a good mug for that cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, here is a wonderful mug for just that!! Also from her Etsy store. I LOVE the bright blue glaze she uses!! She also stays true to her "branding". Most all of her pieces feature the wheat design. Thursday, January 31, 2013
Shoutout to Lakeside Quilts of Maine
In a society dominated by big name box stores, it is quite refreshing to network, interact, and shop from small businesses. Especially when they are local! For the next 10 days, I will be talking about 10 small businesses that I have the pleasure of having made their acquaintance. Networking is everything, as is reaching out a helping hand to your peers and neighbors.
I LOVE this bag of hers that can be found in her Facebook album. It is a BEAUTIFUL black and green floral motif bag with lots of pockets! Quite handy for us working mothers!!
This flour sack cover is a PERFECT Valentine's gift as well! I LOVE it! Click HERE
Lakeside Quilts of Maine is run by Brenda from her home in Naples, Maine. You can find their items on Facebook , MaineMade and Etsy.
Lakeside Quilts of Maine
This flour sack cover is a PERFECT Valentine's gift as well! I LOVE it! Click HERE
Lakeside Quilts of Maine is run by Brenda from her home in Naples, Maine. You can find their items on Facebook , MaineMade and Etsy.
This is from Brenda's Etsy profile:
"♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
I make many one of a kind gifts that are perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, hostess gifts or weddings, any occasion. If you like it, better buy it, I only make one at a time!
I also offer custom Embroidery, contact me with your ideas and we will work to make it happen.
My prices are very affordable but please know I don't skimp on quality.
I love to create and sew, I never know what I am going to make next so visit often! Write me if you don't see what your looking for, I just might have it.
I love anything fiber, buttons, and Threads!!
I also enjoy making my own pizzas, breads and jams. I have re-kindled my love of home canning. My way to control the quality of what my family eats, plus every jar I fill keeps a can out of the landfill.
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
I don't mass produce, I am one person doing what I enjoy. Everything is made in my SMOKE FREE home. I put a lot of creative heart into each item I create.
Member of the Etsy Maineteam and registered with Made in Maine products "Maine Made" is recognized worldwide as a term for quality and integrity.
Thank you for supporting handmade"
I make many one of a kind gifts that are perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, hostess gifts or weddings, any occasion. If you like it, better buy it, I only make one at a time!
I also offer custom Embroidery, contact me with your ideas and we will work to make it happen.
My prices are very affordable but please know I don't skimp on quality.
I love to create and sew, I never know what I am going to make next so visit often! Write me if you don't see what your looking for, I just might have it.
I love anything fiber, buttons, and Threads!!
I also enjoy making my own pizzas, breads and jams. I have re-kindled my love of home canning. My way to control the quality of what my family eats, plus every jar I fill keeps a can out of the landfill.
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
I don't mass produce, I am one person doing what I enjoy. Everything is made in my SMOKE FREE home. I put a lot of creative heart into each item I create.
Member of the Etsy Maineteam and registered with Made in Maine products "Maine Made" is recognized worldwide as a term for quality and integrity.
Thank you for supporting handmade"
Find the Etsy Maine Team Blog by clicking HERE.
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