Handmade for the Holidays

   As much as I don't want to admit it, the holiday season is upon us! I would like to say I am taking some time off after Glitterfest, but it simply isn't true. I have several shows coming up between now and the end of the year, so it's been back to work for me! I recently went down to Beadology in Huntington Beach  for a special one day show honoring my dear friend Melanie Doerman. Her husband, Asbjorn, came down in the afternoon to help us do a book signing for her amazing book "The Art of Forgotten Things." 

Asbjorn & Erin

At Erin, Beadology's Owner's request, I brought down all of my vintage and mixed media pieces and parts so that her customers can create their own versions of Melanie's incredible designs. We had a blast :)

Me & Erin with lots of treasure!

   I will be back to Beadology the weekend after Thanksgiving for a 3 day trunk show Friday-Sunday. I love showing everyone what to do with all of my vintage pieces. Erin is having a fabulous Black Friday Sale and it's Small Business Saturday, so it's going to be a fun & busy weekend! I have a bunch of new design and ideas to share, so come on down to Beadology and play! 
   I really think that one good thing that has come out of these hard economic times is realizing we still have choices and power. Shop your neighbor! There are amazing artists and craftsmen in your community! Get out there are support small local businesses! How about making your gifts this year? It's so much more meaningful when you put your positive energy into what you are giving this holiday season.
  I am involved in a few shows this season supporting the handmade community. First up in this Friday and Saturday The 2012 Christmas Art, Craft, Vintage Festival. Local Artist Donna Gunn is opening up her home for this small gathering of local artists. Friday is a preview for friends and family, then Saturday is open 10-5 to the public! Donna makes incredible purses and is an amazing metal smith. Dana Primavera is another local artist with gorgeous handmade journals & art. Julie Hart will be there with handmade aprons for the chefs & bakers on your list.  Starla Howard will have her hand crocheted snowflakes and Pamela Wright will be there with her handmade ornaments as well! Glorious Treasure will be there with some fabulous vintage decorations and pieces and I will be there of course with some new re-purposed creations...

New pendants I have been working on :)

 Come on down and get started on your holiday shopping! 

Then this Dec 7th & 8th I will be participating in a show in Long Beach supporting this same idea of shopping handmade for the holidays, the Uptown Village Market. 

Bixby Knolls is this darling little area nestled in a quaint residential area in Long Beach. Friday coincides with their art walk and we will continue the fun on Saturday. Over 65 Artists at this event including my good friends Robin Dudley-Howes and Lisa Loria. More details to come! Hope to see you soon!

Best Wishes!
Crystal