Celebrate a Handmade Revolution

There is nothing more beautiful than a handmade toy, piece of clothing, homemade cupcake, or piece of furniture. The creator puts their own special twist into what they are doing, and makes it uniquely their own.

I just finished designing a pattern for a skirt that my daughter Trinity will wear. I can't wait to show you a picture, because I am so proud of the way it turned out.

Making something yourself to give to another is the ideal expression of love. You are putting yourself 100% into a project, and then just simply giving it away. That is selflesness, isn't it. I have been very inspired by the last issue of Mothering magazine. Contained in its pages are 5 daring women, that choose a lifestyle of making everything (or close to everything) for their home/family, by hand. I highly recommend reading that issue, and also checking out some of these women on their blogs or websites.

For my sons birthday, I have already purchased his gifts from http://www.etsy.com/. He will be getting some hand-dyed waldorf silks http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=26486669, a naturally dyed silk ribbons streamer stick (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vt_related_1&listing_id=29669028) ...both from http://www.syrendell.etsy.com/. The family that offers these gems is the sweetest family, and recieve my top notch rating for customer service. I would gladly purchase from them any day of the week, over going to Target or some other box store.

Turner will also recieve 2 nirdles from http://www.animalquackers.etsy.com/. This is the description of the nirdle: "The Nirdle is an adorable little creature. He is a strict vegetarian, and is very social! This medium sized red Nirdle is made with much care from wool blend felt and embroidery floss, then he is stuffed DENSELY with polyfiberfill. He would love to come see your house, he loves children of all ages, and is a wonderful decoration or toy! " See a picture of him @ http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=18712991. This shop is selling out all inventory at a great price with free shipping. Get gifts while the getting is good!!

Another wonderful handmade inspiration is http://www.smallmagazine.net/issue.asp. Small magazine features original artwork, clothing & toy designs for children. Many of the featured artists also have etsy shops.

If you would like to check out my shop, where everything is handmade by my husband or I, go to: http://www.themermaidsbraid.etsy.com/.

Now go make something!!