My crafting spirit has been given new life. A few weeks ago I attended the annual Art
Hop in the south side of Burlington. This is the first time I haven't
been involved. Last year I had my jewelry in the fashion show and the
year before I displayed in at one of the businesses. This year though
since I basically haven't created anything new this year I decided to
go as a spectator. It was a lot of fun and it inspired me beyond
belief. My favorite part of going to this event is walking through all
the artist studios who open their doors to the public. This section of
town is where there is a maze of shared group studios. It is so
inspiring to walk through admiring their art and their work spaces. I
think I enjoy checking out their work spaces just as much as their art.
It is one of my many dreams to be able to have a studio in this area
where I can work in the morning and early afternoon hours while my kids
are at school and have it open for passersby to stop in.

Each year I go I find something new. This year I stumbled upon Pallet Art.
Mark Pabelstein uses shipping pallets and other salvaged materials to
make artwork and furniture. He also uses organic paints to finish the
pieces off. I am obsessed with these frames. I love the rustic look and
the colors are warm and rich. The prices are wonderful too. I can
actually afford to buy one and feel good about having art work in my
house that didn't cost me a fortune. The frames are made from recycled
lumber, painted with organic paints and finished with a natural wax.
Order some up.


I also love these clocks that Mark makes. You have your chose of bottle
caps -Micro-brews, Imports, domestic, Soda pop, Grab-bag or regional:
Vermont, Colorado, California. He also takes custom orders. Can you say
perfect holiday gift? I can. I just might have to get one for myself
before I get one for someone else. Shh don't tell.

I came home from the Art Hop and did something that was long over due. I
cleanup my basement studio, displayed all of my existing inventory and
began to work. It has felt amazing to get back into my work. In the
past two weeks since attending the Art Hop and cleaning up my studio I
have made two new necklaces, 5 pairs of earrings, crocheted 5 scarves
and I am in the works of some new projects I plan on tackling.

My crafting spirit is back and it feels really good. I am hoping to get
into a two day craft show I did last November at City Hall. I will keep
you posted on whether or not I get in. Keep your fingers crossed. Until
then, do something that inspires you. It is so good for the soul.