© 2024 Honaman

Weaving Dreams: The Story Behind Mirrix Looms

The Mirrix Looms Story — A Journey Through Creativity, Family, and Business In a heartfelt episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, I sit down with Claudia Chase and Elena Kawachi, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Mirrix Looms. This conversation is more than just a business interview; it’s a deep dive into the evolution of a creative idea, the resilience of women in entrepreneurship, and the harmonious balance of family and business. It’s a tale that spans nearly three decades, filled with…

Continue Reading

Weaving Dreams: The Story Behind Mirrix Looms

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Tamara sits down with the powerhouse team behind Mirrix Looms, Claudia Chase (founder and president) and her daughter Elena Kawachi (co-owner and head of marketing). Together, they share the inspiring story of a family-run business that began in a Wisconsin barn and grew into a beloved brand in the weaving community. 

 

A Passion Born from Necessity

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice on building a creative business, or simply a heartwarming story of a family’s shared passion. Tune in to learn more about the magic behind Mirrix Looms and discover why so many people are drawn to the art of weaving.

Connect with our guests:

  • Claudia Chase – Inventor, founder, and president of Mirrix Looms. A master weaver with a passion for teaching and inspiring others.
  • Elena Kawachi – Co-owner and head of marketing at Mirrix Looms. A digital marketing expert with a keen eye for community building and customer engagement.
Tapestry Purse Collection, by Claudia Chase

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Authenticity Matters: Mirrix Looms was born out of a genuine need, not a market opportunity. This authenticity has resonated with their customers and contributed to their long-term success.
  • Adaptability is Key: From embracing digital marketing to navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Claudia and Elena’s willingness to adapt has been crucial to their growth.
  • Community First: The strong sense of community around Mirrix Looms is a major part of its appeal. By prioritizing education and customer engagement, they’ve built a loyal following that keeps coming back.
  • Family Dynamics in Business: Claudia and Elena’s partnership is built on trust and mutual respect. They play to each other’s strengths and have found a way to thrive together, both as co-owners and as family.
  •  

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00 The Genesis of Mirix Looms

10:06 Navigating Growth and Change

20:15 The Evolution of Weaving and Community

30:39 The Importance of Content and Education

40:39 Creating a Supportive Community

50:25 The Value of the Creative Process

Big Sister Loom with tapestry in process, by Claudia Chase

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

From Loss to Legacy: Brandi Tracey’s Journey as a Maker

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

We are shining a light on Brandi Tracey, the inspiring founder of NET Creative Designs, named in memory of her father, Norman Edward Tracey. Brandi’s journey into jewelry-making is a story of resilience, transformation, and passion. Initially a paralegal, Brandi transitioned into full-time making following the birth of her daughter and the challenges the pandemic presented in 2020. What began as a simple hobby evolved into a creative calling.

It’s about sharing the journey and inspiring others.

Brandi finds fulfillment in the entire process of making. She particularly enjoys piercing, sawing, and hammering, all of which allow her to express herself. This practice is not only an art form but also a source of stability, aiding her sobriety journey and offering a sense of purpose.

To find Brandi and NET Creative:

Others mentioned in the episode:

The Heart & Hands of a Maker episode with Chris Anderson can be found here .

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Finding Passion in Unexpected Places: Brandi’s initial exploration of making was more for decorating her home. That led to a full-fledged passion for jewelry-making and metalsmithing.
  • Coping and Creating: The art of jewelry-making became an emotional anchor for Brandi, serving as a coping mechanism during a difficult time of grief and personal change.
  • Growth Through Community: Brandi’s journey highlights the importance of connecting with mentors, joining creative communities, and not being afraid to ask for help.
  • Challenges in Pricing and Market Understanding: Brandi shares her initial struggles with underpricing and finding her target market, and how she overcame these through support from metalsmith communities and workshops.
  • Empowering New Creatives: Brandi’s vision extends beyond her business to nurturing a supportive environment for aspiring jewelers through her YouTube channel and upcoming Patreon group.
Pendant; By Brandi Tracey

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

The Creative Journey Begins

00:59

Brandi’s Evolution as a Maker

10:05

Finding Community and Support

20:03

Navigating the Business of Creativity

30:05

Embracing Growth and Learning

Necklace and bracelet; Sterling silver by Brandi Tracey

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

Creative Journey with Artist, Author, Mentor Loretta Lam

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Visit with renowned jewelry artist, author, and teacher Loretta Lam. Loretta shares her inspiring journey— from her early love of jewelry making to discovering polymer clay, which transformed her career. With over 25 years in the art industry, Loretta opens up about her experience building a successful jewelry business, the challenges and joys of writing her book Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design (Schiffer Publishing), and her passion for teaching design principles to help other makers find their artistic voice.

Design is universal and applies to all creative endeavors

Whether you’re an aspiring maker or an established artist, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the wisdom of someone who has spent decades perfecting their craft.

Links to help you find Loretta:

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Loretta’s Early Years: Learn about Loretta’s childhood fascination with jewelry making, starting with stringing buttons from her mother’s button box, and how she eventually pursued a formal education in jewelry at SUNY New Paltz.

  • Discovering Polymer Clay: Loretta shares the transformative moment when she discovered polymer clay in the 90s and how it became the foundation of her artistic career.

  • Building a Business: From local art shows to major craft fairs, Loretta discusses the practical challenges of turning her craft into a sustainable business, highlighting the importance of multiple income streams.

  • Teaching and Mentorship: Loretta found a passion for teaching, guiding students through their creative journeys, and helping them develop their own voice.

  • Writing Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design: The long road to publishing her design-focused book, including the eight years it took to convince a publisher of the need for a book on jewelry design.

  • The Pandemic Shift: How COVID-19 forced Loretta to transition her in-person teaching to online platforms, reaching a global audience and allowing her to focus on design rather than technique.

  • Art as a Lifelong Journey: Loretta reflects on the personal and emotional aspects of art-making, encouraging makers to embrace their unique creative paths.

A Dark and Stormy Night necklace; polymer; by Loretta Lam
Cairn Series Spears Necklace; polymer and steel cable; by Loretta Lam
cover of Loretta Lam's book "Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design"
Medium Berry Violet; polymer beads, steel cable; by Loretta Lam

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

The Creative Journey Begins

02:50

Loretta Lamb: A Journey Through Art

06:12

Teaching and Mentorship in Jewelry Design

08:59

The Book Journey: From Idea to Publication

12:10

Adapting to Change: Online Teaching During COVID

15:03

The Importance of Design in Art

17:50

Understanding the Elements of Design

21:14

Finding Your Voice as an Artist

24:06

The Value of Community in Art

26:57

Reflections on the Artistic Journey

29:39

Embracing Authenticity in Art

32:30

The Journey of Creativity and Growth

36:56

Overcoming Creative Blocks and Fears

39:51

The Psychological Benefits of Creating

42:17

Learning Through Failure and Exploration

45:35

Finding Your Unique Artistic Voice

48:55

Purposeful Learning in Art

51:45

Balancing Production and Creativity

please note: some links are affiliate links where your purchase would provide a small commission at no cost to you.

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

How Jewelry Designer Jill MacKay Built a Successful Career

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Tamara Honaman sits down with the multi-talented Jill MacKay, an acclaimed jewelry component designer, digital content creator, and artist. Jill shares her incredible journey, from overcoming early challenges to becoming a leading designer in the jewelry-making industry. She discusses the evolution of her business, her passion for mentorship, and her deep commitment to creating meaningful, story-driven art.

The Power of Relationships and Networking

Jill offers practical advice for aspiring artists, reflecting on the lessons she’s learned over her career and the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to one’s creative vision. This episode is filled with heartfelt moments and invaluable insights for anyone seeking to build a sustainable creative business or simply navigate the ups and downs of an artistic career.

Places you can find Jill:

Recommended Resources:

  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Jill uses these habits in her daily practice, focusing on prioritizing tasks that create the greatest impact.

  • Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards

Jill recommends this book to anyone wanting to improve their drawing skills, as it teaches how to “see” rather than just “look.”

Key Episode Takeaways:

  • Success in the creative industry requires being good at what you do, delivering on time, and consistently meeting your commitments.
  • Finding creative inspiration and turning your passion into a business requires perseverance and continuous learning.
  • Technology can both enhance and challenge the creative process, and it’s important to adapt and embrace new tools and techniques.
  • Mentorship and community support are invaluable in the creative industry, providing guidance, inspiration, and opportunities for growth.
  • Setting prices as an artist can be challenging, but it’s important to value your work and not settle for less than it’s worth.
  • Simplifying and prioritizing your life and work can lead to greater focus, productivity, and fulfillment in your creative journey.
  • Find your creative flow state and make it a priority.
  • Relationships and networking are crucial in the creative industry.
  • Be a good friend and surround yourself with supportive people.
  • Bring depth and storytelling into your creative work.
  • Make things fun and enjoy the process.
Jill MacKay feature in Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist

Chapters:

(times are estimates)

00:00

Introduction and Keys to Success

04:11

The Power of Drawing and Writing

05:08

Adapting to Technology and Embracing Change

07:04

The Value of Mentorship and Preparation

13:55

Setting Prices and Knowing Your Worth

19:31

Understanding the Brain and Creating New Habits

21:56

Finding Your Niche and What Works for You

23:50

The Challenges of Pricing and Settling

29:08

Dreaming Big and Creating a Future

30:05

Ignoring the Doubters and Pursuing Your Passion

32:00

Finding Your Creative Flow State

36:19

The Power of Relationships and Networking

39:24

Bringing Depth and Storytelling into Jewelry Making

Fort Collins, Colorado; Art in the Park installation, by Jill MacKay
Necklace design made using leather-cutting dies by Jill MacKay

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

Kierston Aiello: Artist, Metalsmith, and Bootstrap Beads

Finding Your People: A Conversation with Jewelry Expert Kierston Aiello

Jewelry expert and business owner Kierston Aiello shares her creative journey and how community, authenticity, and collaboration shaped her success. Kierston opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of finding your niche, and her exciting plans for her new foundry. Tune in for inspiring insights on following your heart and surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded people.

The Importance of Community in the Creative Process

Born and raised in sunny California, Kierston Aiello is a metalsmith and designer with a passion for American craft. While getting her B.A. in Art History at Humboldt State University, she unexpectedly fell in love with metalsmithing. 

Her experience in production jewelry, including her time at TierraCast, solidified her love for the craft and the intricacies of large-scale production. 

Find Kierston here:

 

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Find your community and surround yourself with like-minded people who support and inspire you.
  • Follow your heart and be authentic in your creative journey and business endeavors.
  • Embrace your niche and offer something unique to your audience.
  • Collaborate with other artists to create diverse and exciting collections.
  • Seek support and guidance from small business development centers and other business groups.
  • Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from starting your own business.
  • Enjoy the process and have fun with your creative endeavors.
Series of rings: Kierston Aiello

Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00

Introduction and Welcome

03:04

Kierston’s Creative Journey and Business Evolution

11:10

Transitioning to Self-Employment and Starting a Foundry

21:06

The Importance of Community and Connection

25:29

Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

32:30

Navigating the Business Side of Starting a Business

38:20

Creating Something Special and Being Yourself

41:59

Upcoming Plans and Closing Thoughts

Bootstrap Beads & Foundry's new home!
Tree brooch: Kierston Aiello

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

Carrie Story: Hobbyist to Inventor, Manufacturer, Instructor

CarrieStory-header-enl (1920 x 800 px) - 1

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Carrie Story, a renowned metal clay artist, inventor, manufacturer, and instructor, shares her inspiring journey from a hobbyist to a successful entrepreneur. Carrie began her creative path beading and making jewelry as a relaxing hobby. Her discovery of metal clay sparked a deep passion, leading her to start teaching and eventually recognize a significant demand for metal clay products and education.

This realization prompted Carrie to launch her own business, Clay Revolution. Here, they manufacture clays and products to serve the artist community’s needs (more tools!). Clay Revolution continues to grow and will be celebrating the first anniversary of Project X, their newest product line, a family of silver metal clays.

Throughout the episode, Carrie emphasizes the importance of identifying one’s strengths and being honest about skills and passions. She advises entrepreneurs not to fear competition but to learn from it instead.

Artists work shown above with permission: Clockwise starting (center) upper left:

Michael Marx
Cathy Flesher
Brandy Boyd
Melissa Kay-Steves



JUMP. Just do it. Weigh your risks so you know what you can afford to lose. Then take any necessary precautions and risk the rest. There is no harm in sticking your neck out there. What is the worst that can happen?

Carrie Story

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Find your niche and understand your strengths to build a successful business.
  • Competition can be beneficial and push you to be better.
  • Analyze opportunities and make informed decisions based on their potential impact.
  • Seek advice and support to overcome self-doubt and fear of failure.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or hire expertise in areas where you lack knowledge. Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for success
  • Surround yourself with supportive people
  • Don’t be paralyzed by fear, take action
  • Put yourself out there and take pride in your work
  • Innovation and differentiation are key in marketing
By: Stephanie Chavez

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Introduction and Background

01:19

Carrie’s Creative Journey and Business Evolution

05:06

Meeting the Demand for Metal Clay Products and Education

07:03

Expanding into Silver Clay and Business Growth

08:19

Embracing What You’re Good at and Enjoy

10:12

Learning from Competition and Finding Opportunities

23:45

Competition as a Source of Growth and Innovation

29:41

Seeking Help and Overcoming Self-Doubt

30:08

Overcoming Self-Doubt

32:30

The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Good People

34:54

Navigating the Challenges of Having Your Name on a Product

36:19

Striving for Excellence in Your Craft

40:26

The Process of Developing a New Clay Formula

50:30

Innovative Marketing and Branding Strategies

57:02

Bringing Metal Clay to a Wider Audience

By: Michael Marx
By: Cathy Flesher
By: Melissa Kay-Steves

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

Jessica Coté: Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist, Mentor

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Join me for a captivating conversation with Jessica Coté, a metalsmith from Fuquay Varina, North Carolina. You may know her from her brand name, Rosy Revolver.

Jessica shares her remarkable journey in the world of metal fabrication and her found passion for teaching and empowering others to find their creative voice. The conversation winds through topics such as the importance of authenticity in art, the value of failure, impact of social media on the creative community, the importance of self-awareness in art, and the need for kindness and grace.

Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist, Artist Mentor

Since 2008, Jessica has been dedicated to her craft full-time. She creates bold, feminine statement jewelry. 

Jessica opens up about the evolution of her business, the hurdles she has overcome, and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way. 

Jessica Coté aka Rosy Revolver

Jessica is a maker and sells her finished work, she conducts metal and design workshops online and nationwide. She is also the cofounder of Heart of the Maker, a program she conducts alongside Francesca Watson. (Join the waitlist to learn when the next cohort opens for enrollment!)

In addition to all of this, Jessica develops tools and materials to improve efficiency in her work—after all, there is only so much time in a day! Jessica doesn’t keep these innovations to herself, so you can also benefit from her genius:  

  • Hone & Highlight, is a tumbling media for jewelry making, in both original and mini.
  • Tumbler frames and wheels help prevent tangling when you tumble chains. 

Beyond her professional life, Jessica enjoys her time as a mom of three, she is a plant fanatic, an animal enthusiast, and a lover of all things vintage.

Through our conversation, Jessica also shares exciting future plans, including the possible purchase of a church she hopes to transform into an inspiring space for artists and creatives.

Be sure to tune in to gain insights into Jessica’s creative process, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her vision for the future.

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Authenticity is key in the creative process.
  • Creating something that is true to oneself and conveys a message or feeling is more important than following traditional techniques or trends.
  • Failure is an essential part of the creative journey. Embracing failure and learning from it can lead to growth and the development of a unique artistic voice.
  • Teaching and empowering others can be a rewarding experience for both the teacher and the student.
  • Sharing knowledge and helping others find their creative spark can have a significant impact.
  • Social media can be a double-edged sword for the creative community. While it provides a platform for exposure and connection, it can also be a source of negativity and comparison.
  • Finding a balance and focusing on the positive aspects is crucial.
  • Finding one’s creative voice and staying true to it is a continuous process. It requires self-reflection, experimentation, and a willingness to evolve and adapt.
  • Self-awareness is crucial in art. Understanding your inspirations, motivations, and personal style can lead to more authentic and meaningful work.
  • Kindness and grace are essential in the creative industry. Supporting and uplifting others, rather than tearing them down, can create a more positive and inclusive community.
  • The Heart of the Maker program focuses on inspiration, design, and the order of operations in creating art. It helps artists tap into their creativity and develop their own unique style.

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Embracing Authenticity

09:23

The Value of Failure

25:56

Navigating Social Media

37:16

Finding and Evolving Your Creative Voice

38:42

Navigating Online Communities

41:37

The Shift in Interactions

44:24

The Importance of Design and Play

53:52

Teaching the Order of Operations

01:09:12

Innovative Solutions for Tumbling Jewelry

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

Cat Kerr: Mixed Media Artist Extraordinaire

cat kerr mixed media artist collage

Intrepid, Insightful, Inspiring

Cat Kerr is a mixed media artist driven by curiosity, constantly inspired by the materials she handles. For Cat, the creative journey is paramount, often outweighing the final result. From a young age she was always drawing.  Initially, her dream was to be a fashion designer. Inspired by her grandmother, Belen de Carvajal, this was also the name she chose for her business.

In her 20s, Cat’s artistic focus shifted to manipulating paper and incorporating found objects. The thirties brought an obsession with resin, metal, and rust, experimenting with their combinations. In time, she moved on to working with wood and plastic, particularly enjoying the creative potential of plastic films from Graphix.

Currently, Cat’s art revolves around color, whether through acrylic paints or wax sticks. And she’s having a great time combining all the materials and techniques she’s explored over the years, including the use of canvas, metal, assemblage, and art journaling, reflecting a bit of everything in her artist’s toolbox.

Cat Shares Her Journey and So Much More

In this episode, Tammy and Cat discuss Cat’s creative journey, her love for experimenting with different mediums, and her passion for inspiring others to create without fear. They also touch on topics such as organizing art supplies (the ongoing battle many of us face!), working directly with manufacturers, and the value of your artwork. And, so much more.

 

Visit Cat’s Linktree for access to all the places you can find her. 

 

Social media plays a dual role for me—it’s both a business tool and a platform to share my excitement for art. My goal is to inspire others to create fearlessly and explore new techniques. I hope my followers feel this excitement and are motivated to try new things themselves.

~Cat Kerr

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Say yes to opportunities, even if they are unpaid, as they can lead to new learning experiences and connections.

  • Embrace curiosity and let the materials guide your creative process.

  • Don’t be afraid to try new techniques and push the boundaries of what a medium can do.

  • Organize art supplies in a way that allows you to see and easily access what you have.

  • Make connections and reach out to  manufacturers if you have ideas for new products.

  • Consider the time invested when determining the value of finished artwork.

  • Encourage others to create without fear and inspire them to try new things.

  • Finding the right balance between creating for joy and getting paid for one’s time is a challenge in the creative industry.

  • Art has a healing power and brings grounding and meaningfulness into our lives.

  • Having a focus, defining goals, and staying disciplined are key to achieving success in the creative industry.

Keep Learning, by Cat Kerr

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Embracing Creativity and Curiosity

05:44

Exploring Different Mediums and Techniques

09:28

Organizing Art Supplies for Inspiration

13:26

Making Connections and Collaborating with Manufacturers

24:15

Inspiring Others to Create Without Fear

27:22

Valuing and Monetizing Creative Work

29:38

The Healing Power of Art

31:02

Finding Grounding in Art

32:30

Challenges of Getting Paid for Fun

34:33

The Importance of Focus and Goals

The Nibbler, mini journals; by Cat Kerr
Assemblage by Cat Kerr

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading

The Artist Rolodex Solution and More

Barnidge-header (1920 x 800 px) - 1

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Sandra Barnidge  is a writer who wears many hats. She’s most often a freelancer for universities, nonprofits, and foundations, where she writes in-depth features about scientists, entrepreneurs, and creative thinkers. She also has a novel about religion and sports in the Deep South forthcoming from Belle Point Press.

Recently, Sandra and her brother launched a new project, called Handcraft Nation. This is an online directory of artists, crafters, and makers of all kinds who live in the United States. Think of it as a rolodex for crafters, especially those who sell their work predominantly at arts and crafts shows and festivals.

Tune in to Heart & Hands of a Maker to hear more about their mission and future plans to become a hub for all things handmade, including jewelry, personal care items, and clothing.

For a limited time  you can sign up for an annual membership for free! In the future, as a listener of Heart & Hands of a Maker, you can apply a special code and save 10% on your annual membership. Use code: HeartHands10

Artists work shown above (center) can be found on Handcraft Nation.

Clockwise starting in the upper right:
Copper Baskets
Shepherd Industries
Sand’s Stones
Dara’s Soapery

Handcraft Nation Artisan Directory

Handcraft Nation is a platform created to support artists and makers in the United States. 

This online tool was created to address the challenges artists face on social media platforms, where algorithms limit their reach and direct traffic away from their own websites. Handcraft Nation aims to connect consumers with local artists and makers, promoting sustainability and supporting local economies. The platform currently has around 60 makers listed, with plans to expand and become a hub for personal care items and clothing made by independent artisans.

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Handcraft Nation is a platform that supports artists and makers in the United States by providing a directory of their work and linking to their websites and online shops.

  • The platform addresses the challenges that artists face on social media platforms, where algorithms limit their reach and direct traffic away from their own websites.

  • Handcraft Nation aims to connect consumers with local artists and makers, promoting sustainability and supporting local economies.

  • The platform plans to expand and become a hub for personal care items and clothing made by independent artisans.

Design by Sandra Lupo

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Introduction to Handcraft Nation

15:13

Buying Less and Buying Better

33:37

Putting Small Towns on the Map as Creative Hubs

43:03

The Path Forward: Embracing Creativity

Copper Baskets by Virginia Fisher

FOLLOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM:

Spotify_Logo_CMYK_Black
US_UK_Apple_Podcasts_Listen_Badge
yt_logo_rgb_light copy
US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_Button_Charcoal
i-heart-logo
Continue Reading
© 2024 Honaman