Storque articles: This Handmade Life

Trading for Art and Odd Objects With bARTer Sauce

2009-11-12T16:00:00-05:00

Rosalie Gale, a.k.a. UglyBaby, is a waterproof shower art maker, stand-up comedian and blogger, who is currently obsessed with German board games (Settlers of Catan, anyone?) and embroidery. She likes to ride bikes that fold up into small pieces and develop websites (like the Seattle Street Team site) in Drupal, an open source, database-driven, content management system that is currently her true love (along with her human husband, Doug).

bARTer Sauce is an experiment in trading for art and odd objects. The idea behind the project is that whatever I get, I trade for something else — and everyone I trade with has to tell me a story. I document it all on http://www.bartersauce.com. When I started this project, I planned to only run it for one year but I have been so captivated by people’s stories that three years have flown by already and I’m nowhere near stopping.

In the beginning, I was going to examine the transitory nature of objects that we "own." That’s just a highfalutin way of saying that I like weird stuff in my life — but I don’t like it to stay around too long. I live in a tiny apartment so starting bARTer Sauce allowed me to trade for weird things, live with them for a bit, and then send them along on their way to a new home.

A few things I’ve learned along the way:

It’s pretty easy to let things go. The question I am most often asked is whether I’ve ever gotten something I’ve been tempted to keep. I really haven’t*. I think I get more excited knowing that a really great item will lead to lots of trade offers with interesting stories from people I would have never met otherwise. *There is one exception to this rule (isn’t there always?). A nice lady named Ariane traded in a cardboard cutout shaped like me. I traded for that. Who wants a cardboard cutout of themselves hanging out in someone else’s house? No one.
Good stories can increase the value of an item. Sometimes I’ll trade for a terrible item that has a great story just because I want the story to be part of the project. It’s great to have an item with an interesting story behind it. It makes you feel closer to the person who gave it to you. And it lets you have a tiny glimpse into what their life might be like.
Bartering works. Period. Are you in need of something? Chances are you can trade for it and not spend a dime.
Event planning sucks. One of my original ideas was to end the project with a big event where I invite everyone I’ve traded with to bring the item they received and we all get to exchange stories. I think this is part of the reason I’m hesitant to end the project. You see, over the years I’ve learned more and more about myself and I found that I really hate event planning. More than pretty much anything. Except spiders.

If bARTer Sauce does nothing else, at the very least it starts a conversation. I’ve traded with old friends. I’ve traded with new friends. I’ve traded with a friend of my boss. I’ve traded with countless people that I met once and with whom I would — under other circumstances — have never kept in touch. I’ve traded with total strangers. I once traded with myself. And whether the trade takes place in person or oceans away, I still get a little interaction with someone I would have never known otherwise.

I’ve traded with many Etsy folks during my project — and here are some of my favorites.

Betsy, a.k.a. baddinsdesign and happybetsy

We’ve traded twice. The first time she traded me Jar Grandma for a Tiny Landscape Painted on a Pill. Read my interview with Betsy after trade number one here.

In our second trade, she gave me Lord Bratnose in exchange for two Glitter Cats. Read my interview with Betsy after trade number two here.

Betsy’s thoughts about The Sauce:
“I think one of the most fun parts of the bARTer Sauce experience for me was writing the stories for the objects I traded. As an adult, I'm just not given enough short creative writing assignments. The challenge of coming up with a back-story for my barter items is a really fun, creative exercise that reminded me of everything I loved from my high school creative writing class. I still remember my teacher's awesome mustache and brilliant poetry. Free entertainment + rekindling old interests + kitsch is a pretty awesome combo.”

Sara, a.k.a. rekoj

Sara traded me Two Red Screamers in exchange for the “Mona Didn’t Need Bling” shadowbox. Read my interview with Sara after the trade here.

Sara’s thoughts about The Sauce:
“My bARTer Sauce trade has graced my kitchen with a wonderful art shadow box. Many of my housemates have commented on just how lovely "Mona Didn't Need Bling" is. It enhances our dining experience with a curious stare and lots of shiny stuff to look at. Basically, ever since I heard about bARTer Sauce (through our EtsyRain connection) I had my eye out for something rad to bring in to trade. When Marlo and I found the Two Red Screamers discarded and hiding in the bushes near her studio, I knew I had found my trade. The red screaming guys had to be brought to The Sauce right away!”

Tara, a.k.a. RevivalInk

Tara traded me a Twisted Tree Tee in exchange for Two-Headed Boy painting. Read my interview with Tara after the trade here.

Tara’s thoughts about The Sauce:
“I think bARTer Sauce is important because it brings people together both online, and in the real world. I think trading is always better than using cash, and I like to do it whenever possible. In fact, most of my favorite items were obtained by trading. Usually I only get to trade at craft shows and markets, but bARTer Sauce brings that experience to my computer! I was very happy with my trade because it was a gift for my nephew. When I get gifts for people, it’s very important that they are original. It's also important that they are made locally. It's my way of supporting other local artists, and letting my friends and family know what great things you can get that are made in Seattle. Most of my family is unaware of this, so it has become my mission to inform them. The painting I traded for was a perfect gift for my 3-year-old nephew. Initially, it frightened him very badly but he has warmed up to it. In fact, for Halloween this year he wants to be a monster, like the one in the painting.”

Sauce It Up Yourself:
If you would like to participate in the bARTer Sauce project, check out the Available Items. Then, make a Trade Offer that includes a picture and a story — about anything at all.

You can also keep in touch with The Sauce on Facebook and my blog, I Like Pretty.

Stay warm and eat more potatoes.

Items on Etsy Tagged "Object" | More This Handmade Life Posts | Keep it Weird Series

Our Thoughts and Gratitude Go Out to Veterans

2009-11-11T10:03:00-05:00

With the backdrop of two active wars and the recent tragedy at Fort Hood, our hearts, thanks, prayers, and sadly our condolences, go out to those in the military and their families this Veterans Day.

Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, was originally set as a U.S. holiday to honor the end of World War I, which officially took place on November 11, 1918. In 1938, November 11 was "dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day.'" As such, this new holiday honored World War I veterans. After both World War II and the Korean War, Congress — at the urging of the veterans service organizations — amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting the word "Veterans" and November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

This is also a time to honor those who have fought for freedom in other parts of the world. One of the most significant symbols of this is the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, which occurred two days ago, on November 9.

While peace is still a distant goal for the world as a whole, we are very fortunate to have the freedom we enjoy and the protection of those who make sacrifices every day.

Homefront Team | Items From Their Shops | Homefront Team's Facebook Fan Giveaway

Military Brats Team | Items From Their Shops

Shop Local Philly With Sarah Lockard of Around Main Line

2009-10-29T10:29:00-05:00

Around Main Line CEO and ePublisher Sarah Lockard was born and raised in Philadelphia’s western suburbs, known as the Main Line. Around Main Line is Philadelphia’s very first emagazine, celebrating the people, places and events of the region — exclusively online. Today Sarah shares her favorite Etsy finds from Philly and the surrounding suburbs. You can find more of Sarah's picks in her Around Main Line series, Etsy Phavorites.

As a big city with a small town feel, we are fiercely loyal and supportive of each other. That’s why I decided to launch Philadelphia’s first emagazine, Around Main Line. This is a rich city in so many ways, not only because of the people, but also due to the diverse cultures that mix in neighborhoods across the region.

The streets of Philadelphia are alive with great stories that have yet to be told! It just made sense for me to seek out these fantastic local entrepreneurs and businesswomen who are talented artisans and handcrafters as well. The women I have met are so enthusiastic about their success on Etsy and I love the sisterhood we have established together.

One of my favorite parts of the Philly region is the endless choices of charming coffee shops and the unique experiences they offer. You can usually find me chilling in the dozens of java joints on the Main Line or in West Philly — people-watching, brainstorming with my web designer or working on my laptop!

That’s my beloved Philadelphia — home sweet home. Go Phils!

Nicole Pankratz, a.k.a. lilbooandco: “I love the Philadelphia area for its rich historic value and bustling atmosphere, but also for the hidden treasures and places to go just beyond the city. Here I am at Milky Way Farm, a local farm and creamery located in scenic Chester Springs, PA, about 25 minutes outside the city limits. I love going there to get my farm fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and of course, their homemade ice cream!” [Photo by Jubilee Photography]

Laura Kicey, a.k.a. helveticaneue: “For a designer and photographer entranced by color and historical architecture, Philly's neighborhoods and suburbs are goldmines of inspiration around every corner.” [Photo by Laura Kicey]

Krista Peel, a.k.a. kristapeel: “Although we are very new to the area, we love East Kensington's diversity, its rugged artsiness and its potential to be great. This area holds a lot of folks who are dedicated to being good neighbors. That's really exciting and wonderful to me.”  Krista is pictured at the Memphis Taproom in Philadelphia. [Photo by Vida Carson]

Kelly Galvin Robson, a.k.a. highstreetmarket: “I love that you can be experiencing the city for part of the day, and drive just 20 minutes and shop at a farm stand out in the country. Coming from Los Angeles, this feels like a breath of fresh air.“ Kelly is pictured at a flea market in Kutztown, PA.

Sara Selepouchin, a.k.a. girlscantell: "Philadelphia's pretty much surrounded by farms. Autumn is my favorite time of year to get out of the city to go pumpkin and apple picking. It's a really refreshing change of pace, exploring the rural areas outside of Philly.” Sara is pictured at Terrain at Styers, Anthropologie’s Gardening Center, Glen Mills, PA. [Photo by Laura Kicey]

Stephanie, a.k.a. PearlStationery: “The great thing about the Philadelphia area is that there's an amazing center city, but there are also so many gardens, farms and just open spaces around us. It's the best combination!” Stephanie is pictured at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA.

El Lohse, a.k.a. elloh: “Here I am browsing in a used and antique bookshop where Andrew Wyeth would frequent. It's located in a barn, surrounded by a landscape I imagine Beatrix Potter painting. Minutes away, the busy downtown of West Chester has the opposite effect.” El is pictured in a Chester County bookstore.

Emily Dorn, a.k.a. PreciousMeshes: "West Philly is old Victorian grandeur, lovely gardens, tall trees and wide streets, and it's just a quick trolley ride to downtown. I love being part of the community of creative people who live here, people who might not fit in just anywhere. West Philly is the best Philly!" Emily is pictured in her West Philly neighborhood. [Photo by Vida Carson]

Katie Reim, a.k.a. katiejeannereim: “When I need an escape, I take a jog along the cherry blossom lined Schuylkill River, or mountain bike in the Wissahickon Valley and forget that I even live in the city. Also lining part of the Schuylkill is the famous Boathouse Row. Each Victorian-style house is unique and full of over a hundred years of history.” Katie is pictured along the Schuylkill River on famed Boathouse Row. [Photo by Vida Carson]

Shop Local Posts | Shop Local Philadelphia | Shop Local in Your Area

Please let us about your favorite local Etsy artists. Post in the comments below!

Artistic Endeavors: Matt Revelli of Upper Playground & Juxtapoz Magazine

2009-10-22T16:45:00-05:00

Upper Playground is a design force for a new generation, where underground artists emerge and art shows up on T-shirts, baseball caps, online videos as well as gallery walls. Bridging art and fashion, Matt Revelli, creative director of Upper Playground (which he founded in 1999), recently took on the additional role of editor in chief for Juxtapoz Magazine. It's hard to describe just how influential its pages have been for artists who insist on breaking down the barriers between fine art and pop culture.

Matt is a mixture of brain and athlete, "the last of the bohemian jocks."

"Dear Mr. Vernon, we accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong, but we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us as you want to see us... In the simplest terms and the most convenient definitions. But what we found out is that each one of us is a brain...and an athlete....and a basket case...a princess...and a criminal...Does that answer your question?... Sincerely yours, the Breakfast Club."

What got you interested in independent artists?
I'm a contrarian by nature so I think I'm drawn to handmade things and art because at the root of it there is a desire amongst the creators to go against the grain and make things that don't fit into a particular category.

The rainy season is coming and I'm looking forward to spending Saturday afternoons putting together all my paper dollies. Woody Allen Paper Doll by littlegreygoose.

Do you have any collections?

I don't collect anything except original art, and I only collect things from people that I like personally.

Caroline Hwang showed her art in the FIFTY24SF Gallery a while back and I've always liked how she can translate fine art into a craft format. Let's Rethink This Pillow by carolinehwang.

I started to realize that the things that you collect become a part of your life, and no matter how great a painting is, if I don't have a positive personal connection to it I don't want it in my life.

Do you make anything?
I don't really make things myself. I consider myself more of a producer, more comfortable behind the scenes.

I like how this photo manages to make pigeons look regal. Fantastic Blue and Gray Pigeon 8 x 10 Photograph by allisonostertag.

What do you love about your job?
The best thing about my job is getting to interact with some of the most creative people in the world. They allow me to see the world from a completely different perspective and challenge me to raise the standards of what it means to be innovative. Street art really only intrigues me when I see people trying to push conceptual boundaries — people who interact with the outside world and treat the outside as a larger extension of what was once only encouraged in the galleries and museums.

What emerging artists do you have your eye on?
People who inspire me in that world include Herbert Baglione, David Ellis, Blu, and Mark Jenkins to name a few. For pure graffiti and murals Augor, Saber, Mac, Retna, Revok, QS, and MQ off the top of my head, but there are literally hundreds of people whose work I enjoy...

Are you a producer, working behind the scenes? Which artists and creators inspire you?
Tell us in the comments below.

The Collectors: Boopsie Daisy's Pez Dispensers with Rikrak

2009-10-22T10:00:00-05:00

I just love seeing what folks are collecting. I guess I feel it tells us just a little bit about what inspires them, what they love, and what they choose to surround themselves with in their homes. Today I'm delighted to present the next installment in an ongoing series here on The Storque: The Collectors. First presented on my own little blog, the rikrak studio, it's 11 and a half quick questions with a wonderful artist on what they're collecting (apart from their art supplies!).

Oh October! How I love you! And I just adore this month’s featured collection, too! Like Halloween, BoopsieDaisy’s Pez dispensers showcase an appreciation of nostalgia, a love of whimsy, a panache for color, and a celebration of…candy! Delightful! So join me as we skip hand-in-hand down Gumdrop Lane and revel in the sugar-covered sweet sweet joy of collecting!

Who (are you?): Missy Munday of Boopsiedaisy

What (are you collecting?): Pez Dispensers

When (did you start?): Seven years ago

How (many do you have?): 209 at last count

Where (do you find them) and (do you keep them?): Yard sales, thrift stores, flea markets & souvenir shops. I keep them in our dining room.

What (piece would you like to add?): The two that top my wish list are Snow White and Frankenstein, the original 60's versions.

Why (do you love them?): Besides that they double as delicious, colorful wall candy, they're instantly recognizable as collectible, totally timeless, and seem to beckon back to a time that was simpler.
Plus they spoonfeed you candy.

Which (one is your favorite?): It's sort of a three-way toss-up between Gargamel (for looks), the vintage clown (my rarest) and the vintage witch (which has sentimental value).

What (else do you collect): Too much to list, really, but primarily different editions of Snow White and Alice in Wonderland books, dolls, Wizard of Oz merch, Muppets stuff, vintage valentines and squeak toys, and anything relating to Drew Barrymore.

Like her delicious and fun-filled collection, Missy’s brilliant shop is genuine eye candy for the soul. Just a moment savoring her sweet and sugar-coated, tantalizing and gasp-worthy, rainbow-sprinkled handmade world, promises to banish the grayest day and delight your senses!

Her enchanting and whimsical creations have captured the wide-eyed imagination of many, and it’s with holding-my-breath delight that I tune in on a daily basis to see what fantastical new fairy tales she’s crafted in her vivid life and work. What a joy!

Thanks so much, lovely BoopsieDaisy! Wishing you all the sweetest of days!

What do you collect? I’d love to hear! Please post in the comments below!

The Collectors Series | Vintage Pez | More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

Open Studio Tour: SnitchesGetStitches

2009-10-06T16:30:00-05:00

In this Open Studio Tour series, we snoop around Etsians' creative spaces to find out the story behind the drawing table. We want to know all about our artists, and in the process, perhaps get a bit of inspiration for our own workrooms!

For this month's open studio, we visited SnitchesGetStitches. Melissa is obsessed with color, horror, and the bizarre and she says that she must have been the Bride of Frankenstein in a past life...so let's explore her spooky studio!

What's your name and what kind of craft do you do?
My name is Melissa Allen and I’m a craft addict. 90% of the time, I’m a seamstress specializing in bags, pouches, and hair accessories. In addition, I’m 2% knitter, 2% painter, 2% resin artist, and 4% every other craft you can think of. In my Etsy shop, you will find items hot off my sewing machine. My husband is an artist and he often has prints of his original paintings available as well.

What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on some new patterns for the upcoming holiday season. I want to vamp up my current designs and try new techniques. I always draw up my own patterns, so that is #1 on my list right now. I am also working on some pouches with my scrap fabric. I’m trying out new sizes and even working on new inventory of keychain pouches.

When did you decide you needed to get a studio?
I learned to sew about four years ago with the help of my mother-in-law and husband. (How awesome is that?) I started with an $80 Kenmore sewing machine and a card table in the living room. Within two months, the fabric stacks had become unbearable and I knew that something had to be done. Up to this point, I was sewing for fun. I enjoyed what I was doing so much and I knew I could only carry so many bags (and trust me, I have A LOT). A friend introduced me to Etsy, and I decided at that point I needed a studio… a place for me, my sewing machine, and my supplies. Shortly after, I had my own space and SnitchesGetStitches was born!

Tell us a bit about the process of setting it up.
Since I live in a house with my husband and two cats (MeowMeow and Pumpkin), finding a place to start a studio was easy. We live in a small two bedroom house, but it is the perfect size for the four of us. We have this TINY room at the back of our house that was used for storage. I wiped that area out, painted it with the most awesome green I could find, and moved in.

Did the studio set up impact your crafter budget?
Not at all. With the help of local thrift stores and Ikea, I was able to create the studio of my dreams with a tiny budget. I have two tables that cost $50 together. An old metal cabinet from my husband’s grandmother works perfectly for my supplies (and doubles as the ideal place to display business cards from all of my favorite Etsy sellers). Shelves were $5 each from Ikea and the color selection is amazing. Large totes that are stored beneath my tables serve as extra storage for finished items and extra fabric. The curtains were handmade. I purchased a used Kenmore Serger for $90. The total cost to start my studio was around $200. Spray paint is my friend! Old frames to display art can be changed to any color your heart desires. I always have a stash of spray paint in my studio. I use thin plastic table liners ($1) to cover my damaged table tops for aesthetic purposes (oops — that rotary cutter should have had a mat under it!). Saving money in the start of my studio gave me more money to spend on supplies. I have a nasty fabric obsession!

As for all of the random décor, I have been adding to my collection over the past few years. A majority of these goods come from Etsy. The money for this does not come out of my crafter budget, so all is well. Being surrounded by handmade goods in my studio keeps me inspired to continue doing what I do!

How big is your studio?
I just measured it. 9 feet x 7.5 feet.

Which is your favorite tool in your studio?
Last Christmas, my husband and mother-in-law gifted me with a Bernina. While I still have (and use) my little Kenmore, there are qualities about the Bernina that definitely make my life easier. I have taken a mastery class for my new machine and I loved every minute of it. One little note: no one EVER touches my serrated shears. FOR FABRIC ONLY! The Bernina beats out the shears as favorite tool, but I could not live without them.

Do you want to share with us one secret of your studio?
I cannot read patterns (or maybe I just lack the patience). While I have dozens of patterns stashed away in my studio, I never use them. I have always created my own patterns with construction paper and tape. I use construction paper because I’m rough on patterns and use them many times… I can tear through the thin tracing paper within one use.

How many hours do you normally spend in your studio?
Whether I’m sewing or just playing around, I spend about 20 hours in my studio per week. I work a full-time job (plus some), so I have to limit the time in my studio in order to maintain my social life and sleep schedule. I wish I could spend every waking moment inside my room sewing and crafting… maybe one day!

Do you share your studio with someone or would you like to do so?
While I don’t mind if people come in and use my studio, I do appreciate the fact that it is solely mine. Everything I have is within arm’s reach and I can find anything in an instant. I think sharing my studio with someone could disrupt my flow. We don’t want a cranky Melissa. I’m very methodical.

Is there anything you would add to your working space?
I do not NEED anything, but I’m always looking to add to the art and décor. I would love to have more pieces from pinkytoast, boopsiedaisy, and stoopidgerl.

If you had to choose one synonym for your studio which one would you pick: atelier, family room, lair, lodge, nest, playroom, retreat, sanctuary, shelter, darkroom, or showroom and why?
Definitely playroom. Without the playroom aspect, I would have no studio. Being in a happy space is a must. If I enjoy being in my room, I’m going to enjoy my work!

And last but not least, how often do you clean it?
Wow. I’m a crazy house cleaner. I clean every time I enter the room. Everything has a place. I even have most of my containers with drawers labeled. My fabric is always folded and coordinated by style… not color. To someone that isn’t familiar with my room, it can appear to be a madhouse. To me, it is a colorful and wacky haven in which I enjoy every moment that I spend.

Anything else you'd like to add?
The color of my studio was inspired by a pair of electric green Doc Martens that I have had for quite some time. I was married on Halloween in 2004 with a complete DIY wedding. I frequently change my hair color and my personality is very addictive (or so I’m told). I love toys and refuse to think that I am getting older. At 28, I still feel like I’m 7-years-old when I enter my studio.

Thank you, Melissa. Until the next studio snoop, ciao!

If you have an interesting studio or workspace and some tips to share, comment below or add photos to the Open Studio Flickr group, and you may be next in our Open Studio Tour series!

The Collectors: themefragrance's Birds

2009-09-29T12:39:00-05:00

What a wonderful time of year! Sunshiney warm afternoons, beloved sweater-weather evenings, and the vivid colors of summer transforming into those sumptuous autumn hues. For me, it’s nature at its loveliest!

This is also the time in the calendar when I look for ways to bring the outdoors indoors, something I know so many of us universally love about interior design. As we cozy up our homes and indoor spaces, this month’s gorgeous bird collection brings the joy of the vibrant woodlands and the spirit of natural history alive inside. Here’s a wonderful collection interview to inspire us.

Who (are you?): Elizabeth of themefragrance
What (are you collecting?): Bird objects  
When (did you start?): Five years ago
How (many do you have?): Lost count!
Where (do you find them?): Antique stores, gifts, Etsy.
Where (do you keep them?): I live in an old brick house in Brooklyn that has six mantelpieces, and I rotate all my collections on them. 
What (piece would you like to add?): Bird prints from Etsy shops (so far I’ve collected prints by geninne and mincingmockingbird) .
Why (do you love them?): You can't have too many! The variety keeps you going!  
Which (one is your favorite?): My lovebird, Buddha (the real one).
What (else do you collect): Antique doll parts, typography blocks, hands, old magazines, perfume bottles, postcards, children’s books.

Like the modern perfumer she is, I love the way Elizabeth’s collection so aptly mixes design and modern handicraft with the natural world. Aren’t the rich and variegated hues of these lovely birds just gorgeous atop the classic white mantles of her brick home? Elizabeth’s brilliant use of color and hand-picked historical elements brings nature indoors not only with her beloved bird collection, but also in her delightfully vibrant shop. Like the splashes of antique history in her collection, Elizabeth’s work builds on the traditional to craft fresh, modern perfumes with enticing organic scents. I just adore her integration of nature in her collections, both in her home and in her shop. Thanks so much for sharing with us, Elizabeth!

What do you collect? I’d love to hear! Please post in the comments below!
And have a most colorful, vivid day, nicies!

The Collectors Series | Vintage Birds | More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

There's No Place Like Here: Communal Living with Nikki Silva

2009-09-23T15:50:00-05:00

Friend Etsy on Youtube & Blip.tv | Subscribe to Etsy's iTunes Podcast | MP4 Verson

Like all our videos, feel free to re-post and embed the video on your blog!

(music by Forrest Lewinger, animation by JuliaPott)

While traveling to help promote Etsy as a sponsor of the Bay Area Maker Faire, I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to visit the wondrous place that is La Selva. After a beautiful sunlight-through-the-mist drive down the winding seaside road of Highway 1, I reached Watsonville, CA, and eventually La Selva, where Nikki Silva, a public radio producer best known for her work as one half of the Kitchen Sisters, greeted me. Nikki led me through the communal home that she and eight others have built for themselves in over thirty years of hard toiling work. Naturally we waited all day for a break in the fog so I could get a shot of the majestic view overlooking Monterey Bay.

Davia Nelson, the other half of the Kitchen sisters, above left and Nikki on the right.

Any high-end designer home may be engineered by master architects and built by contractors for millions, but part of the beauty of this place is that it was designed and built by nine people, who wanted nothing more than a place to call home. I suppose it was to their great fortune that one of the original nine happened to be a master architect and builder, but even so, La Selva is built largely from reclaimed materials from other buildings in the Santa Cruz area that had either burned down or were being remodeled. The stories that Nikki shared of how and where they sourced building materials were both industrious and inspiring. La Selva was built on the weekends, one house at a time, step by salvaged marble step.

La Selva is filled with the families' interesting collections, including Nikki's sock monkey hoard.

While Nikki attests that there was no intention of building a commune per se, it is very much a communal living situation. They are all partners in the shares of a single plot of land, and each partner or couple has a housing space within the whole compound based on their share. On the property, there are four separate houses, a large barn, a storage shed and an art studio. There is also a main house that has the kitchen, living room, and bathhouse (I didn't pry). In total, eight unique yet cohesive structures share the property of gardens, fields, and forest, overlooking farmland and the pacific ocean. For those living at La Selva, they eat dinner together every night, take weekly turns with the meal preparation and cleaning of the kitchen, and share in a remarkable sense of togetherness that is much like that of a family.

As the sun seemed to slip into the sea, closing my window of opportunity to keep shooting this wonderland, the kind folks at La Selva were gracious enough to have me for dinner. I expect this is their tradition for many a welcome guest. After dinner, we tuned in to a local Santa Cruz radio station to hear Nikki's daughter, Molly, recite a recent piece of her writing for which she had earned an award. It was a touching moment to sit with the group of people who had collectively raised Molly and hear her voice over the radio waves, the medium of her mother's legacy. It's hard not to imagine that every evening there is just as spectacular.

Much of the original art seen on the walls of La Selva can be found in the shop of Nikki's husband, Charles Prentiss. The vintage radio shown above is from johnnyvintage.

Watch more There's No Place Like Here Videos| Shop Local Santa Cruz

Looking for more styles and interiors? Check out our video series, There's No Place Like Here, where creative types show us their unique spaces — infused with their aesthetic and filled with the treasures they collect. Get involved and show us your amazing space in this Flickr pool.

Oktoberfest Memories With BurdaStyle

2009-09-23T14:18:00-05:00

Open source sewing company BurdaStyle is a longtime friend of Etsy's (and a German one at that!), and when we saw their über-cute dirndl pattern on BurdaStyle, we had to let you know about it. "Based on the historical dress of Alpine peasants, the dirndl is the traditional dress of southern Germany and Austria. In Munich, wearing a dirndl is still a normal way to dress." If you use the dirndl pattern, make sure to show BurdaStyle your interpretation of it!

To get you in the mood, we asked Munich-native Benedikta von Karaisl to share some of her memories of Oktoberfest, both in German and English.

Die online Nähplattform BurdaStyle ist ein langjähriger Freund von Etsy (und zudem noch deutsch!). Nachdem wir diese übersüßen Drindlmuster bei BurdaStyle gesehen haben, müssen wir euch davon erzählen. "Basierend auf der historischen Tracht der Alpenbauern, ist das Drindl die traditionelle Bekleidung in Süddeutschland und Österreich. In München ist es beispielsweise immer noch normal sich so zu kleiden." Falls ihr das Drindlmuster benutzt, müsst ihr eure Interpretationen davon unbedingt BurdaStyle zeigen!

Um euch in Stimmung zu bringen haben wir die aus München stammende Benedikta von Karaisl gefragt mit euch in Englisch und Deutsch einige ihrer Erinnerungen ans Oktoberfest zu teilen.

My name is Benedikta, and I run BurdaStyle.com with my partner in crime, Nora Abousteit. On BurdaStyle, you can find open source sewing patterns, lots of inspiration and sewing tips, and over 250,000 sewing obsessed ladies to mingle with. A true Bavarian, I am excited to share a bit about the two weeks in September that make my hometown of Munich, Germany world famous.

Hi, ich bin Benedikta und leite zusammen mit Nora Abousteit BurdaStyle.com in Brooklyn. Auf unserer Seite findet man alles ums Naehen herum, und mehr: Open-Source Schnittmuster, Inspiration und Naehtipps wie auch ueber 250.000 naehbegeisterter Mitglieder. Als waschechte Bayerin bin ich natuerlich sofort dabei ein bisschen was ueber das Oktoberfest zu erzaehlen, insbesondere da es das erste ist was den meisten ueber die Stadt bekannt ist.

[Oktoberfest Hearts — Photo by Mark Briola on Flickr]

Growing up in the city of Munich is as peaceful as growing up in the countryside, with its picturesque neighborhoods and friendly residents. However, all of that changes during the last two weeks of September, when Bavaria’s breweries gather for its yearly Oktoberfest, the “Wiesn." Originally celebrated in honor of Ludwig I's wedding in 1810, it is now the world's largest fair with some 6 million people in attendance.

Wer in Muenchen aufgewachsen ist, kann bestaetigen: die malerische Innenstadt mit seinen freundlich grummeligen Bayern wirkt eher wie eine laendliche Idylle als eine Grossstadt. Damit ist’s allerdings dahin in den letzten zwei Septemberwochen, in denen in der Weltstadt mit Herz die Oktoberfestmusi den Ton angeben. Erstmalig veranstaltet als Pferderennen zu Ehren des Koenig Ludwig I in 1810, ist es mit seinen ueber sechs Millionen Besuchern heute das groesste Volksfest weltweit.

[Wiesn Rides by schmollmolch on Flickr]

Besides rides and attractions, the main focus is traditional food and Bavaria’s beer. The fact that about 7 million liters of beer and 520,000 chickens are consumed illustrate Munich's festive spirit during those two weeks.

Nebst Wilder Maus und Schichtl ist natuerlich das Bier mit passenden Schmankerln die Hauptattraktion. Fakt ist, dass waehrend der Wiesn an die 520.000 Brathendl und knapp sieben Millionen Liter Bier und konsumiert werden. Das letztere liegt offensichtlich der allgemeinen Festeslaune zu Grunde.

[Inside the tent by pokpok13 on Flickr]

My high school was so close to Oktoberfest that we would hear the Bavarian Umtata band sing from morning 'til evening. Hungry tourists and traditionally clothed Bavarians streamed by on their way to the Wiesn, only to return hours later with large Bretzn and a swing in their step. Since hotels are booked to the max, campers liked to park their vans on our school parking lot. As we would be late for first period, we would spot them getting ready in front of their campers to join the Wiesn. Those school days seemed to never end until the bell finally set us free to join the madness.

[Oktobercouple by Cladia H, come back?? on Flickr]

Ich hatte das Glueck dass meine Schule so nah an der Festwiese lag, dass wir die Blasmusik den gesamten Tag bis in unsere Klassenzimmer schallen hoerten. Touristen wie Bayern geschmueckt in Dirndl und Lederhosn stroemten unter unseren Fenstern vorbei Richtung Oktoberfest nur um Stunden spaeter mit Brezn, singend oder tanzend wieder aufzutauchen. Da Hotels waehrend der Wiesn grundsaetzlich ueberbucht sind, hatten wir die Ehre hartnaeckigen Touristen mit ihren Campingwaegen auf unserem Schulparkplatz ein vorlaeufiges Zuhause bieten zu koennen. Das fuehrte hin und wieder zu dem Vergnuegen als Zuspaetkommer die Camper bei der Morgentoilette zu erwischen.
Schultage waehrend der Wiesn wirkten endlos, bis wir uns endlich unter die Festgaeste mischen und uns geniessen konnten dass es unsere Heimatstadt war, die waehrend zwei Wochen im Herbst Schauplatz des wohl ausgelassensten Festes der Erde ist.

[Enjoying the festivities by ragingwire on Flickr]

Have you experienced Oktoberfest? Are you doing anything to celebrate this September? Leave it in the comments!

More Oktoberfest Posts | More Bilingual Posts | Shop Local Germany

Open Studio Tour: May Luk

2009-09-22T14:06:00-05:00

In this Open Studio Tour series, we'll be snooping around Etsians' creative spaces to find out the story behind the drawing table. We want to know all about our artists, and in the process, perhaps get a bit of inspiration for our own workrooms!

A couple of weeks ago, I participated in the ACC show in San Francisco in the emerging artist section (I applied after seeing this call entry). There I met May Luk and her beautiful work. Of course we started talking about our work as part-time artists, Etsy and our working spaces. As soon as I saw May's fantastic studio in the Etsy Open Studios Flickr group, I wanted to share it with you!

What's your name and what kind of craft do you do?
My name is May Luk and I make functional ceramics in Brooklyn.

What are you working on right now?
I am very excited about my new limited edition ceramic range, a collaboration with local illustrator Samantha Hahn; it’s going to be girly and naughty. I am also developing a set of custom kitchen tiles for a new home in Boston.

When did you decide that you needed a studio?
With the dust, the need for a kiln and a place to think, there’s no other way but to work in a studio.

When and how have you set up your studio?
I was living in London and acquired all of my equipment from a local potter who retired. I brought what I could with me when I moved to Brooklyn. I found the studio share through a pottery email list, Clayart. All that was left to find was a kiln and the time to put everything in place.

Did the studio setup have an impact on your crafter budget?
No, because I factored it in already. I just have to work harder and smarter because of the overhead.

How big is your studio?
My share of the space is about 200 square feet. It’s a 45 minute walk from my apartment and I find the walk a nice way to clear my head in preparation for my ceramic work.

Which is your favorite tool in your studio?
My fettling knife. I use it on everything. When I work, it feels like it's an extension of my hand. It’s sharp and shiny.

Do you want to share with us one secret of your studio?
I dance to samba music when nobody is around.

How many hours do you normally spend in your studio?
30 hours a week.

Do you share your studio with someone or would you like to do so?
I share the studio with two other potters. I enjoy their company and we share costs for utilities, etc. I like to work alone as well and go for long hours in an almost meditative state... until my husband reminds me it's time to come home.

Is there anything you would add to your working space?
A window on my side of the studio but that would be just a fantasy.

If you had to choose one synonym for your studio which one would you pick: atelier, family room, lair, lodge, nest, playroom, retreat, sanctuary, shelter, darkroom, or showroom and why?
An atelier. It is a private creative space where I work and think. It’s also a jungle: hot, unruly, dense and at times chaotic, but there is guaranteed action and adventure!

And last but not least how often do you clean it?
For health and safety, I need to wet wipe my workspace every time I work. I try to mop the floor every other week. But if I do something messy, like mixing slip (liquid clay), or plaster mold-making, I always have the mop and bucket nearby...are you reading, studio-mates?!

Anything else you'd like to add?
Cook homemade meals. Use local ingredients. Serve on handmade ceramics. Enjoy them with your loved ones. Be happy.

Thank you, until the next studio snoop, ciao!

If you have an interesting studio or workspace and some tips to share, comment below or add photos to the Open Studio Flickr group, and you may be next in our Open Studio Tour series!