Meet the Sponsors: Dots And Loops

With only two more days left till the fair we wanted to let you get to know some of the people who have made the Crafters Winter Yule Tide Cheer a possibility with their amazing support.  One of the newest businesses in Nova Scotia's craft circuit is Dots and Loops located in the heart of beautiful Lununburg. Meet co-owner (and Halifax Crafters sponsor) Melanie Strong:

About Our Store:

We’re a handmade only / indie boutique located in Lunenburg. We’re pretty new on the scene – we just opened in August and we just had our grand opening. We carry designs from artists who call all parts of the world home, though we do carry many local crafters (many of whom will be represented at the Crafters Market!) and many other Canadian makers. We also have the US, the UK and even Australia, Greece and the Netherlands represented in shop. We try to connect and establish relationships with makers based on whether or not we love what they make, rather than where they live. We have a weakness for hand pulled screenprinting, so we are always adding to our print wall and our screen printed textile selection but you will also find pretty much every type of craft represented here (which is pretty easy, considering we have the work of over 120 different crafters in shop.)

Myself and my partner, Stephen Bishop, are the owners behind the shop. Stephen (also known by his studio alias of HelloDaylight) is a graphic designer by trade and a screenprinter by passion, so his contribution to our shop’s aesthetic has been huge. I have a varied background, with my most recent work being the Director of Operations for the Halifax based multidisciplinary design firm Breakhouse. So I handle most of the day-to-day parts of the business but I am also what I call a secret maker – I love using my hands but don’t make anything with commercial appeal. We decided to open the store because we both love anything made by hand and we really wanted to share this love with customers who may not realize that there is an alternative to mass-produced goods available to them. We decided to locate in Lunenburg because we both appreciate the slower pace of life that a more rural setting can provide (and we have 3 pet hens who aren’t allowed in Halifax city limits!). It’s been interesting so far, and we’ve had a great response from both locals and visitors to Lunenburg alike. We really see this small town as being in the midst of a revival of sorts and we’re really excited to be at the forefront.

Why We Wanted to be Involved in Crafters:

Stephen, through HelloDaylight, starting selling his screenprints through Crafters a few shows ago and I got to help out a couple of times. I’d been to Crafters many times before and always loved to see all of the beautiful work made by so many people. We also loved the feel of the Market itself and could see the work that goes into it. The Crafters Market is, in our opinion, the best thing of its kind in the Maritimes.

We realize that the number one way to support makers is to buy their work but, now that we own a store that helps do this as well, we also know that another way to help is to support the venues that give crafters an outlet to get their work out there. We know that the Halifax Crafters Society is run by volunteers, who are themselves crafters, so we know that there are likely many things the Society would love to do but don’t have the time or funds to see happen. We hope that by sponsoring Crafters, more and more businesses will jump onboard and help out and that Crafters will continue to grow and improve for many years to come.

Thanks so much Melanie! We're so excited for you and Stephen and want to congratulate you on opening your (and our newest) dream shop!


 If any readers out there haven't been in to Dots and Loops yet its more than worth the scenic drive.....though when did any one need an excuse to day trip to Lunenburg?  You can also follow Melanie and Stephen in their endeavor on the shop's Twitter and Facebook pages. 

Meet the Crafters: Alissa Kloet

Three more days! In case you were wondering, the Crafters are busy working overtime this week to get ready (many are even working other day jobs in addition to their crafting). Today we're going to meet Alissa Kloet. You've already seen her work - she's one of the artists behind this show's posters. But let's take a closer look at what she does. 

What do you make?
 I make textiles for the home and most recently started branching out into making wood trays.

What is your process? 
My process involves silk screening my own original designs onto fabric, and most recently wood. I also do work with stitch - like reverse applique and embroidery.

How long have you been a crafter? 
This will be my third year participating in the Christmas show here in Halifax. Before I moved to the east coast I was involved with the Maker's Market in Hamilton, Ontario.

What is your background/How did you get started?
I studied textiles for three years at Sheridan College. After receiving a diploma, I went on to complete a BFA in Interdisciplinery Studies at NSCAD. I've been selling my work since graduating from Sheridan in stores here in Halifax and some around the Toronto area.

Why do you do what you do?
I love seeing something that started out as an idea on paper become an actual thing. Being part of the process from start to finish is really important to me.

When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?
Currently in Halifax I sell through Seeds Gallery. Hopefully my products will pop up in some more stores around the city this coming spring.

What is your involvement in the show?
This is my first year being part of the team that gets the show up off it's feet. I also had the privilege of illustrating the poster this year.

Where do you do your work? 
I have a small space in my apartment where I do a lot of my sewing and designing. My boyfriend has also graciously given me studio space in his basement - that's where I do my printing.

What inspires you? 
I really like textiles from the mid-century and I can never get enough of Scandinavian design.

What kind of music do you listen to while you work? 
It changes depending on the pace I feel like I have to work at. My brother has been making me playlists on grooveshark.com and those have been keeping me going. I play his 90's hip hop playlist for when I really getting to work - it makes me feel tough...

Three things you need in order to create? 
I need my notebook - I like to start with small creative acts to give myself confidence, my Bernina sewing machine and some really great fabrics.

What's your favourite way to procrastinate? 

Right now, it's watching Arrest Development on Netflix...

Meet the Crafters: Hillary Webb

 Less than one week to go! Can you believe it? While the Crafters are busy working overtime to get ready for Saturday, here's another Crafter you'll find at the show this weekend. Today's Crafter is Hillary Webb, whose crafting story is full of love and adventure.

I’ve been making and selling hand embroidered art since completing my degree in textiles at the Ontario College of Art and Design in 2004. The process I developed includes making natural dyes from scratch, staining my dyed cotton fabric with beeswax, and drawing on the fabric with pencil and thread. 

Recently I’ve begun using vintage pillowcases and table linens as the base fabric. My work is inspired by imagery found in nature like trees, birds, animals and patterns. My latest body of work has started to steer away from that and includes imagery of fire and buildings. I’ve also started stitching words and patterns into vintage postcards. Last spring I joined forces with my creative partner, David, and we started creating items like tiny ceramic necklaces and screen-printed pendant flags.

I can’t stop making things. When my hands aren’t busy I get restless. As far as I can tell, making things is in my blood.

 

When I’m not selling at the Halifax Crafters market you can find my work on my website and on the Gold Fools Etsy shop. I’ve also had the pleasure of showing my work at Love, me, and have a show planned at the Heartwood on Quinpool in January. On December 10 and 11,  I will be selling my work at the City of Craft show in Toronto.

I’ve had a booth at the Halifax Crafters Market for the past two years (this upcoming show will be my fifth!). When I moved to Halifax to complete a master’s degree in 2009, I was fortunate enough to stop by the autumn market at the North Street Church within my first month of being in the city. I knew right away that I wanted to be involved.

Halifax Crafters is one of the best shows that I’ve ever participated in. Since the first time I attended, I was blown away by the caliber of work presented there. I do all my Christmas shopping there and proudly bring the locally made goodies back to Ontario to share with my loved ones. There is so much care taken in decorating the hall and the food is always amazing.

At the first Halifax Crafters market I participated in, I was placed next to a very talented painter and crafter named David Figueroa. Two years later I am proud to call him my partner, both personally and creatively. 

This past summer David and I combined our creative power and toured the States for two months, selling our art under the name Gold Fools. We did three Renegade Craft Shows in Brooklyn, San Francisco and Los Angeles, immersing ourselves, and our work, into the craft scenes in those amazing cities. 

We created for ourselves the rare opportunity to show alongside those whose work we have long admired and followed. We met amazing likeminded people that invited us into their homes, studios, and introduced us to their cities. The support we found as travellers and creators was enormous. It was an adventure of a lifetime!

David and I are proud to announce that our trip will be featured in an upcoming issue of UPPERCASE magazine about creative adventures.

For those who don’t know, Renegade is the largest independent craft show in the States. They have annual shows in Chicago, Austin, Vegas, San Francisco, LA, and Brooklyn (and recently started a show in London, England). The people that sell work at these shows are the ones whose work is drool worthy, and featured all over the best crafty blogs.  We were honoured that they included us and have been trying to convince them to start a show in Canada!

Meet the Crafters: Alissa & Chantal

Meet Alissa: one half of the masterful team behind this year's winter market poster. She shares a little bit about collaborating and gives us all a sneak behind the scenes with some beautiful photos of the printing process.

Chantal and I have collaborated on a few projects now. It's always nice to have another person around to bounce ideas off of and another set of eyes. We were thinking of things we associated with winter while trying to stay away from any religious subject matter. There are so many great winter activites to do (many of them that I haven't tried yet but am very eager too) like dogsledding, skating and of course snow shoeing. We both had really liked the idea of snow shoes and we also were taken with the wonder posters made for the Renegade Craft fairs - I find they always do a good job of making the text interesting. I illustrated the various elements for the posters and than we both sat down and played around with it in photoshop until we got something we liked. Many of the posters you'll see around town were hand silk screened by Chantal and I in my studio here in Halifax. 

Thanks to all their hard work you can see the posters pop up all around town reminding us that the Yule Tide Cheer Winter Market is just around the corner!

Meet the Crafters: Gillian Hyde

We're back with another round of Meet the Crafters! This a chance for us to introduce you to the Crafters behind the tables. To get us started, meet Gillian Hyde of Pip Robins Accessories

Hi! I’m Gillian, owner and operator of Pip Robins Accessories, a tiny company with a big heart.  I create sewn cowls made primarily from reclaimed textiles, which means I shop for discarded yardage year-round from thrift stores, take them home, give them a good wash and then slowly piece them together.  Sourcing these fabrics lowers the environmental impact of having to create new textiles and creates wonderful, limited-edition and one-of-a-kind pieces for both men and women.  Cowls are the anti-scarf: a scarf that you easily slip over your head with no looping, tying or wrapping, but offers the same amount of warmth and style as a traditional scarf.


How long have you been a crafter?

Crafting didn’t really come naturally to me.  My sister, Ambera Wellmann was always the artist in the family and so it was never something that I focused on.  I’m completely self-taught and didn’t know any crafty people until my late twenties. Through the power of internet tutorials and a lot of perseverance I learned some basics and after running Pip Robins for nearly three years I have mastered the art of the cowl.

What is your background/How did you get started?

I’m a bit of a vagabond, a wanderer, and spent about ten years travelling and living around the world.  I’ve called the Caribbean, West Africa, Mexico and Europe my home, and have lived in a few provinces across Canada.  I am a trained Web Developer and that’s what my “career” was focused on for most of my twenties, but I am happy to be out of the IT industry now and focused on my own fashion accessories business. 

I started Pip Robins after seeing a guy with a bandana over his nose and mouth one bitterly cold day in the North End of Halifax. I loved the look of something pulled up over his face but knew that there had to be a better way to keep warm if you didn’t want to wear a scarf. I worked on a few prototypes and eventually settled on a design and started selling them on Etsy. They took off immediately, much to my delight, and it hasn’t slowed down.  I consistently see men’s bare necks in the winter and want to run up to them with my business card and tell them that there is another option! They don’t need to be cold! Let me save you! Women love them too of course, but they’re a lot easier to convince because women often like to wear accessories and they see how diverse cowls are. 


Why do you do what you do?

Pip Robins is my full time job right now. I left my job this summer in part so that I could focus on Pip.  I’ve always operated Pip because I love it: I love the treasure hunt and the thrill of finding a really great piece of fabric, I love how it allows me to tap into creativity I didn’t know I had. I love sending my product all over the world (fashion capitals Paris, France and New York, NY are the top international destinations). I love knowing that I’m operating my business ethically and as environmentally as I can.  I love working for myself and I love having full control over every aspect of my business and what I send out into the world. I also love the crafting community, the kinship that comes with selling your wares.  It makes up for spending so much time alone with a sewing machine and computer.

When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?

This year I started wholesaling my cowls, so I’m carried in about 20 stores across Canada. In Nova Scotia you can find them at Biscuit General Store, Love, Me Boutique, the lovely little new store Dots and Loops in Lunenburg and Flow Boutique in Amherst.  I also have a booth at the Halifax Seaport Market every Saturday where you can find the best selection of cowls in the city. I do most of my business on Etsy and through my own website.


How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters?

This is only my second show; I was involved in last year’s winter show and had amazing feedback and fabulous customers.


What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows?

Halifax Crafters is the only show I’ve ever done or attended! But, as a stickler for money, I LOVE that there is no admission fee. You can attract so many more people of varying backgrounds by not charging a dime to get in. Second, I love that it is volunteer based. I can’t even imagine all of the work that needs to go into organizing this event, so I really appreciate every single person that works their tail off to make it happen.  It’s all done for the love of craft, which is totally inspiring and admirable.

What inspires you?

My easiest source of inspiration is from the fabric itself. As soon as I see something while thrifting I envision it as a cowl and can hardly wait to get it home and start sewing.  Once I am finished, I quickly take a few shots of it on myself, put it online and wait for feedback.  Who isn’t a sucker for compliments?

My favorite website for inspiration is pinterest. So many good ideas, so many images and tutorials I never would have come across any other way.

Because Pip is my only job I’ve been able to put a lot more time, effort and creativity into each piece this year, so I’ve started incorporating embellishments like reclaimed leather, studs, wool braids, appliqués and more. This month I was featured in The Coast’s ShopTalk in an article that highlighted my mustache cowls, a fan favorite! I vow to donate 10% of November mustache cowl sales to prostate cancer research.

Three things you need in order to create?

My industrial Janome sewing machine, Padraig slippers and my chiropractor.

What's your favourite way to procrastinate?

Soy chai latte in the morning, a nap in the afternoon, sweet white wine in the evening, loud laughter as often as possible.

Meet the Crafters: Lyndsay Hubley

Meet Lyndsay of LouLouBell:

What do you make?

LouLouBell sews handmade clutches, bags, pouches and cases. We also do hairpins and accessories and custom bridal work.

What is your process?

The flower blossoms which embellish many of my pieces are made out of a combination of organza, chiffon, satins and other fabrics and have become a bit of a signature for LouLouBell work. They are created by cutting the fabric into petals, singing them on a flame which makes them crinkle and give them each their unique shape. They are then layered and hand sewn
together and topped with glass and seed beads.

How long have you been a crafter?

I grew up watching generations of women in my family sewing, knitting, embroidering and crocheting. Besides a couple home-ec classes in school, I never did any serious sewing. In 2006 I bought a machine and began to teach myself. It had been a hobby for me until 2009 when I had my first child and decided to leave a full time job to stay home with him and try and grow my hobby into a business.

Why do you do what you do?

I do what I do because it got to the point that I would be daydreaming about creating while trying to pay attention to 'real life' and laying awake at night sewing seams in my head, dreaming up new pieces to try. And creating makes me happy.





When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?

Boutique Joliette in downtown Halifax carries many new pieces, from headbands and hairpins to formal clutches. I also have two online shops at louloubell.etsy.com and louloubellbaby.etsy.com. You can also find me at the following places:
www.louloubell.ca
www.louloubellblog.blogspot.com
Facebook
Twitter

How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters?

My first show with the Halifax Crafters was Christmas 2009 and it was so much fun! What a great group of folks and talent! Plus I got all my christmas shopping done in one place that weekend :) It continues to be my favorite place for finding gifts.


What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows?

I think Halifax Crafters markets are different from other shows because you can feel the energy, from the crafters and creators themselves, and from the visitors who come through the market there, it's energizing. I always leave with a renewed sense of community. It's so nice to see folks coming out to support small business and local artists.

What are you excited about seeing at the spring market?

I'm especially excited this year for cupcakes from Gateaux Rose - YUM!

Searching out some one of a kind coffee mugs, new vendors, and new work from returning members. It's always nice to see what everyone's been busy with...



Where do you do your work?

I work from my home studio, in Upper Tantallon, not far from the Peggy's Cove Road.

Three things you need in order to create?

1. Peppermint tea
2. A headband
3. Good lighting (sunlight preferred)

A favourite quote?

In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet.
~ Albert Schweitzer

What's your favourite way to procrastinate?

Fabric shopping! (Which I suppose I need to do anyways for my craft, but I could probably do this 99% of the time, but then I wouldn't get much sewing done) I love to see what new collections and colors my favorite fabric designers are coming out with next!

Meet the Crafters: Jerry Walsh

Meet Jerry Walsh of Distinctive Garden Accents:

What do you make?

I make decorative accents for gardens or outdoor spaces - birdhouses, feeders, bathouses, benches, suet feeders, coatracks (for outdoor walls or decks), signs, obelisks, squirrel feeders and weather vanes. The list is unlimited, based on new ideas and customers desires.


What is your process?

I use as much driftwood and old greying wood as possible, so the look and feel of the wood sometimes dictates what gets built that day. Gnarled driftwood, natural knot holes, wood with flaked paint or well worn driftwood boards determine the next piece.


How long have you been a crafter?

As "Distinctive Garden Accents", I have been active for three years. But I have been cutting and shaping wood for the past twenty five.


Why do you do what you do?

It is the perfect combination of my two favourite hobbies - wood working and gardening. I only make pieces that I would put into my own garden.

How did you get started?

In the eighties, my wife owned and operated a craft supply business, operating out of our home. Part of the mix was tole supplies and teaching classes. I cut all of the wood for general sale and for the classes as well. I had all of the tools and when I decided to leave a full time job, I wanted to do something that I would enjoy and would become a small business into the future. Voila!




When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?

It can be found at Jennifer's on Spring Garden Road, Walkers Seed in Cole Harbour, Acadian Maple Products on the Peggy's Cove Road, Crossroads Gifts in Tantallon, Mother Hubbards in Hubbards and One Sky Now in Mahone Bay.


How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters?

This is my first show.

What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows?

It seems to work like a cooperative. All hand made items and not the imported commercial products. I really like the idea of keeping the booth/advertising fee low and no admission fee for the public. It has a community feel to it.


What are you excited about seeing at the spring market?

Families out for the day, finding that special treasure. Warm weather after a cold winter brings people out with a great attitude.






Where do you do your work?

I work from home. I have converted our large garage into a workshop.


What kind of music do you listen to while you work?

Mostly jazz. Also rock, world, bluegrass and modern country.


A place you love?

My backyard with large gardens surrounding a large pond with many fish.


Favourite time of the year?

Right now, for the next three months!


Three things you need in order to create?

Wood, screws, power tools.


A favourite quote?

Live today like it is your last. It might be.


What's your favourite way to procrastinate?

Put on a great jazz cd. Pour a glass of red wine. Relax, preferably next to the pond.

Meet the Crafters: Trudi Smith

Meet Trudi Smith of Double Happiness Designs:

What do you make?

I make books and artwork using Japanese Chiyogami papers which are printed with traditional designs in vibrant colours. I take a lot of inspiration from Japan, which is reflected in the form of my books, the subject matter of my artwork, and the attention to detail in my work.

What is your process?

I get inspiration from the things I’ve seen, books I’ve read, places I’ve travelled to...when I go into my studio, I’m thinking of all these things when I make my work. Sometimes, it takes me a little while to get warmed up and start making things, but once the ideas and work start flowing, it’s really just the best thing.

How long have you been a crafter?

When I was five, I won a father’s day craft competition with a portrait of my dad made using a paper plate and dry macaroni. I’ve been hooked ever since.

Why do you do what you do?

I get a lot of satisfaction from working with my hands and making things. I really like designing new books and thinking of things I’d like to make in the future. The end result is great too – getting to display my work and hearing the reaction from my customers is very fulfilling.


What is your background/How did you get started?

My two big loves are reading and collecting books, and making things. When I discovered Japanese paper, I just knew that I wanted to start making books with it. I took some bookbinding classes, and started giving my books to family and friends as gifts. They encouraged me to start selling my work, and happily – other people like my books too!



When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?

I sell my work here in Halifax at Henhouse in the Hydrostone Market, Duly Noted on Brenton Street and Love, Me on Birmingham Street. I also have my own etsy shop.

How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters?

This will be my third Crafters show.

What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows?

I think that Halifax Crafters is different from other shows because it’s all about community. We have a community of great crafters who are very supportive of each other, and the Halifax community is very supportive of our work. I have a number of return customers who visit me at each show – it’s great to see those familiar faces and have a chat.

What are you excited about seeing at the spring market?

I love selling at Halifax Crafters, but I might love shopping there even more! Everything is great, but if I had to pick favourites, I would choose the artwork by Anna Stowe of Good Day Studio, the sweetest accessories by Lyndsay Hubley from LouLouBell and pretty feather jewellery and cute party favours by Amanda Fullerton. Oh, and I have to mention the food – the cupcakes are amazing, and I heard that there are going to be waffles this year too!


Where do you do your work?

I have a studio in my home in Dartmouth. I work surrounded by my favourite things – Japanese paper lanterns, white painted wood floors, treasured childhood toys, and my little dog Milo.

What kind of music do you listen to while you work?

I don’t really listen to music while I work very often. I’m a big fan of podcasts – the Slate Culture Gabfest is a favourite – and books on tape. And – guilty confession – sometimes if I have some really repetitive tasks to do, I watch very bad romantic comedies on my laptop. Lately, when I do listen to music, I love Vampire Weekend.

A place you love?

I have visited Vienna a number of times, and I really love it there. It’s a beautiful city with a lot of history, wonderful art museums, a thriving cafe culture – and just an all around great lifestyle. When I am there, I have the feeling that people really know how to relax and appreciate all the things their city has to offer.

Favourite time of the year?

I really like autumn in Nova Scotia. The weather can be really lovely, and we have beautiful fall colours. I also like to cook, and we have lots of great local produce to buy at the farmer’s markets at that time of year.

Three things you need in order to create?

1 – A dedicated space of my own,
2 – Lots and lots of paper,
3 – Tea and sweets always help the creative process.

A favourite quote?

"Irrational thoughts should be followed absolutely and logically" – Sol LeWitt

What's your favourite way to procrastinate?

Playing fetch with my dog in the park.

Meet the Crafters: Colleen MacIsaac

One of the things we love about the show is having a different poster by a different artist every time. There's so much talent in the Halifax Crafters Society that we have a lot of fun choosing themes and posters.

The poster for the Spring Flight show was designed and screenprinted by Colleen MacIsaac of Little Foible (with screenprinting help from Joanna and Kat). We decided to ask Colleen to tell us a bit about her design.



My poster design came about when I started brainstorming about things that remind me of spring in Halifax -- I live near Citadel Hill and often walk around and across it, and seeing people getting out to fly kites there more often is a sure sign of spring for me.

I also have a fondness for kites in general (though I'm pretty bad at flying them myself), and my 2009 OMF animation Kate and Bradbury featured a kite and a bicycle -- kites pop up in my work fairly often.

kate and bradbury from Colleen MacIsaac on Vimeo.

I'm an interdisciplinary artist -- I make comics, animated films, paintings, screenprints, and theatre.



I've been lucky enough to be at every Halifax Crafter's show since December 2007, and it's been so incredible to see the range of work that is presented....I've never been at a Halifax Crafter's fair where I haven't bought some sort of amazing cards, jewellery, food, zines, pins, clothing, or artwork.

Meet the Crafters: Kat Frick Miller of Fox Acre Row

Only one day to go until the show! What you may not realize is that the all 80+ crafters are hard at work getting last minute work done for the show (some more frantically than others). The Crafters show is an exciting time for us - we get to meet with shoppers and with all the other crafters. Today's interview is with Kat Frick Miller of Fox Acre Row.

What do you make?
Screen-printed textiles. Pillows, fabric doorstops, t-shirts, placemats, tea towels and other such things.

What is your process?
First and foremost I'm a drawer. I wander around my little part of the world, find something special and draw it. I then transfer my drawing to a screen, print it on fabric and sew it into something.

How long have you been a crafter?
I've been creating crafty things for as long as I can remember.

Why do you do what you do?
Partly because I love sending happy things out into the world, and partly because I'm afraid of what my life would be if I wasn't busy making!



What is your background/How did you get started?
I received my BFA at NSCAD. I concentrated on painting while I was in school, doing screen-printing on the side but since graduating screen-printing has consumed me.

When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?
Seeds Gallery & Love, me Boutique in Halifax, Jenny Jib in Lunenburg or by contacting me through my blog.


How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters?
My first show was in Spring of 2008 at the North Street Church. After having a show or two under my belt I started volunteering to help organize and jury the markets.

What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows?
Everything! Everyone that comes to Halifax Crafters creates something very unique that I know I won't see anywhere else.

What are you excited about seeing at the Holiday market?
I have my old favorites like Blythe Church and Kyla Francis but I'm always most excited about finding something new. I usually get all of my holiday shopping done at the Halifax Crafters.


Where do you do your work?
I have a studio in my little house in Upper Kingsburg.

What kind of music do you listen to while you work?
If I'm drawing it is usually quiet time, however when I'm printing I need something loud and energetic.

A place you love?
Lunenburg County!
What inspires you?
Once again Lunenburg County! My latest collection is pretty much a love letter to my new home. Over the past year I've had the chance to wander and explore this beautiful area of Nova Scotia and I've never been so inspired.

Something you can't live without?
COFFEE

Favourite time of the year?
Autumn. It's a lovely feeling to gather together everything you need for the winter, hunker down in front of the fire and wait for the snow.

Three things you need in order to create?
Coffee, pencils and paper

A film or book you love?
Everything is Illuminated

What's your favourite way to procrastinate?
Oddly enough I procrastinate by doing everything I usually put off doing, like scrubbing the bathtub or doing the dishes.

Meet the Crafters: Kim Munson of Oprhanage Clothing

Crafter Kim Munson is the designer behind Orphanage Clothing. Her clothing designs are putting Halifax on the map as a place to find amazing fashion designers.


What do you make? clothing made from deconstructed garments

What is your process? Buy a tshirt/suit/trenchcoat, tear it apart, trace new pattern, cut, sew, sell.

How long have you been a crafter? Since the Khyber days.- 4 years??

Why do you do what you do? If I didn’t do this I would die.

What is your background/How did you get started? I studied Fashion Design in Toronto at the International Academy of Design and Technology


When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work?
Across Canada in fine boutiques, locally at ProSkates on Quinpool, also, personally through the website

How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters? Since the Khyber days


What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows? Kitschy, awesome local art,craft. Great handmade stuff. Lots of absurd and weird finds.


What are you excited about seeing at the Holiday market? New vendors



Where do you do your work?
Home studio

What kind of music do you listen to while you work?
Hawksley Workman, Cure, BSS, Judge Judy.



A place you love?
Frenchys



What inspires you?
A Canadian made vintage wool suit.


Something you can't live without?
garlic fingers

An artwork or artist you love?
Geordan Moore


Favourite time of the year?
Fall - when you put away the summer clothes for the more structured items in your closet.


Three things you need in order to create?
a suit, a sewing machine, and Cherry Blasters.

A film or book you love?
Shantaram – Gregory David Roberts
Movie – Sleepaway Camp


A favourite quote?
“You gain strength and courage by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you cannot do.” --Eleanor Roosevelt



What's your favourite way to procrastinate?

cooking

Meet the Crafters: Anne Pryde

Today's Crafter is Anne Pryde, a volunteer organizer who has been with Crafters since its early days at the Khyber.

What do you make? Wheel thrown and hand built utilitarian pottery

What is your process? Most of my work begins on the pottery wheel where it is thrown and altered. Many pieces are thrown in two or three parts and assembled. All of my glazes are food safe, dishwasher durable, and microwave friendly. I design my glazes in the studio wearing a big lab coat, respirator and gloves. When pieces are decorated and glazed they are fired to cone 6 in an electric kiln.

Why do you do what you do? I do what I do, because I can't imagine doing anything else. I'm fully addicted to clay.


What is your background/How did you get started? I studied Ceramics at NSCAD University then went on to apprentice with two local potters before starting my own full time business in 2006.

When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work? Love, Me Boutique on Birmingham street in Halifax and Linens for Life in Chester NS

What is your involvement in organizing the show involvement? This time around I had the task of CKDU Liaison, coffee finder , and meeting catering

How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters? since February 2005

What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows? It is organized by a group of volunteers so costs are kept low for participants and no entry fee is charged. There is live music, a fantastic view from the balcony and it is small enough to be comfortable but big enough to see lots of super art.

What are you excited about seeing at the Holiday market? I'm excited to eat yummy things, and do all the Christmas shopping for my family in one place.


Where do you do your work? In an converted basement rec room in my house. There is a lovely tropical beach scene mural taking up all the walls painted by the previous owners kids

What kind of music do you listen to while you work? Mostly folk and indie rock.

A place you love? My Great Grandmother's homestead in Tatamagouche NS

What inspires you? Everything

Something you can't live without? music

An artwork or artist you love? There is so much great work coming out of Halifax Crafters members, but if I had to just pick one body of work it would be Rilla Marshall's crop and pesticide statistical weavings.

Favourite time of the year? August (I'm a Leo)

Three things you need in order to create? time, tea, and sunshine

What's your favourite way to procrastinate? cooking, baking and canning food.

Meet the Crafters: Joanna Close art in fibre

Less than a week until the show! Today's Crafter is Joanna Close of art in fibre.

What do you make? I make hand dyed and hand woven blankets and scarves. I also make hand drawn and painted cards.

What is your process? For the woven pieces I start with a landscape and begin preparing and dyeing yarns. Then I proceed with weaving the piece on the loom, working as I go to create a landscape.


How long have you been a crafter? ...for as long as I can remember! I was the kid who did craft projects at my birthday parties!

Why do you do what you do? I have always made things so I think it's just a habit. I need to do things with my hands to feel content.

What is your background/How did you get started? It started as a hobby when I was young. Then I did an undergraduate degree in Textiles and continued with a masters degree in textiles and fibre art.
When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work? you can find it at Seeds Gallery, love,me boutique, my own studio - North Pocket Studio (send me an e-mail if you are interested in visiting) and Handworks Gallery (Saint John, NB).




How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters? Since 2008
What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows? I think the variety of work and the fact that everything is made locally and by the individual selling it.

What are you excited about seeing at the Holiday market? I'm excited for Kat Miller's newest work! and Caitlin Purcell too.


Where do you do your work? At my house and studio

What kind of music do you listen to while you work? usually cbc radio 1 and 2

A place you love? the forest where i am from in new brunswick

What inspires you? landscapes and delicious food

Something you can't live without? my quilts that my grandmother made


An artwork or artist you love? anna von mertens, ink and spindle
Favourite time of the year? tricky, december or july

Three things you need in order to create? pen, yarn, dye

A film or book you love? the trouble with harry

What's your favourite way to procrastinate? snacking

Meet the Crafters: Kyla Francis

Today we're going to meet Kyla Francis, the Crafter behind some of Halifax's favourite glassware.


What do you make? Hand printed glasses

What is your process? I screen print ceramic ink as a flat decal which I apply to the glasses and fire in my kiln just to the melting point of the glass so the colour is incorporated.

How long have you been a crafter? I started my own studio up 2 years after I graduated from NSCAD

Why do you do what you do? (oh dear! I don't know! existential crisis!)

What is your background? I took screenprinting and ceramics at NSCAD which gave me the background in the technology to start experimenting with glass in my own studio practice. Glass wasn't taught at that university so most of my process has been self taught.

When you're not selling at Crafters markets, where can I find your work? I sell at Argyle Fine Art and Love, Me Boutique here in Halifax and I also sell online, through my website, www.kylafrancis.com, and through a Pittsburgh online retailer, ModCloth.



How long have you been involved with Halifax Crafters? The first show I did was December '06 at the Khyber (the first show ever was Dec 05)

What makes Halifax Crafters different from other shows? Large tradeshows require pretty hefty investments that can stop emerging artists in their tracks. We wanted to create a space which was juried for the highest quality but that still allowed artists working with smaller runs to step in to craft show marketing, and that would be affordable enough to allow our artists to risk their wilder ideas. We always look for artists who are inventing their own processes and styles over those working in familiar traditions and as the group has grown we really have become the premier venue to find fresh new craft because of that mandate.


What are you excited about seeing at the Holiday market?
I'll be doing my holiday shopping of course! There's so many different things offered at the show so I can usually find something even for hard to shop for types. I'll stock up on cards because I think receiving warm thoughts from someone dear is the best holiday decoration. Next on the shopping list will probably be soaps (osha mae), glasses (kyla francis - shameless self promo) and dishtowels (bespoke uprising) because everyone I know bathes, drinks a beverage and does dishes on a regular basis, and they all deserve a little extra luxury while they're at it.




Where do you do your work? I have a studio in Lower Prospect.

What kind of music do you listen to while you work? I listen to CBC radio a lot in my studio; I like hearing talk when I work and relaxing to music afterward.

A place you love?
Mason's cabin at Kejimkujik National Park. You can ski, snowshoe, hike, bike or canoe the 20km to get there. Winter is my favorite time to visit; even a lay-person like me can see how full of wildlife the quiet park is when their tracks are all over the snow.

Favourite way to procrastinate? watching Boardwalk Empire