While I've always supported the local vs. national when I could, cloth diapering was a lead in to a whole new realm of shopping with *real people*. As I started purchasing handmade items when my babies were born I was inspired to begin making them myself. "Handmaking" is contagious it seems. Now it has become a lifestyle for us, and the lessons myself and my children are learning are timeless and valuable. They know the time that goes into making an item, they understand the process. They learn that they can be self sufficient, they don't need to go to a big department store for their clothes, toys and jewelry, we can make them. If we don't know how to make something what do we do? Buy a book or pattern or buy from someone we know who knows how to make the item. My children are learning that trading is still alive and well, you don't necessarily have to have a dollar to get what you want. They are watching me learn to balance family vs. activity and all of the intricacies of running a small business. As all of us artisans raise our children along side building our handmade businesses, we are creating a culture of children who will value the handmade and have an independent "can do" spirit - priceless lessons that I'm proud to contribute to by producing and purchasing handmade. Nita, 37, Sewist, Hot Salad, hotsaladbynita.com |
My venture into soapmaking began when my son was diagnosed with severe eczema before he was 6 months old. We were able to determine that he had severe allergies that were causing his outbreaks. My husband and I had made a commitment for me to be a full time caregiver to our children, and while I was home with my preschool aged children I began researching ingredients to produce our own soaps and skin care products. Our business was born of this research, and it has enabled me to be home with my children full time, as well as my husband to join our business once he finished his enlistment with the military. Melissa Gephart, mom, wife, soapmaker, www.BlueHouseSoaps.com |
I love to quilt but after many yrs family members want something besides wallhangings or quilts.So that ones that I am buying for I am buying handmade that is out of my realm of creativity. hookedonquilting |
Julie at Creative Genius's handmade inspiration
5 years ago I opened a gallery that exclusively sells handmade items. I think as Americans we do not always support our own culture and I think handmade items are a big part of what makes up a culture. One thing I admire about Europe is the focus that is placed on the arts and here in the United States, people have this Walmart mentality. Instead of focusing on the quality of handmade items, people go cheap. It was refreshing to come across this site...hope it inspires a ton of people to appreciate the little bit of personal energy that goes into every handmade creation and that gets transfered from creator to buyer. Julie at Creative Genius, 40, Gallery owner, www.creativegeniusonline.com |
Rebecca's handmade inspiration
What inspires me to purchase handmade items is the beauty and individuality that comes from handmade items. You can see the time, detail, thought and art that has gone into it. Rebecca, WAHM, www.crazyhatlady.com |
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