Every morning when I reach into my cupboard, I’m greeted by a set of handmade pottery dishes. They have character—slight variations in the glaze, the subtle marks of the maker’s hand, the kind of beauty that only comes from something made with intention. They’re sturdy, beautiful, and uniquely mine—but what makes them truly special is Read More
Author: Miranda
Passion and Vulnerability: The Enviable Craftsmanship of Keith Brymer Jones
In a world that often encourages stoicism and emotional restraint, seeing someone publicly embrace their vulnerability is a refreshing and inspiring reminder of the power of authenticity. Keith Brymer Jones, a celebrated potter and ceramicist from the UK, exemplifies this beautifully. With over four decades of experience in pottery, he’s not just known for his Read More
Art vs. Craft: What is the difference?
Ever wondered where the line between art and craft lies? Spoiler alert: it’s not as clear-cut as you might think! Let’s dive into a colourful discussion that spans centuries and continents, shedding light on this ever-evolving debate. A Tale of Two Definitions Traditionally, “craft” refers to creating functional objects with a high degree of skill. Read More
Choosing Collaboration Over Appropriation in the Creative Community
I have been a part of the creative community for over 40 years, contributing as a maker, graphic designer, photographer, writer, teacher, event producer, among other roles. During that time I have become accustomed to seeing a lot of my work used without permission, whether it be my writing, graphics, photos, designs, or amazingly even Read More
Choosing the Right Social Media Platform for Your Handmade Business: Facebook vs. Instagram
When it comes to promoting your handmade business, selecting the right social media platform can make all the difference. Certainly, there are a variety of platforms beyond what Meta provides, yet the ones I consistently receive inquiries about are those within the Meta umbrella. So with Facebook and Instagram leading the pack, understanding their unique Read More
Crafting Success: The Art of Completing a Craft Show Application
For artisans and crafters, participating in a curated art and craft show or maker show is more than an opportunity to showcase their work; it’s a chance to connect with peers, engage with the community, and elevate their brand. However, the path to securing a spot in these coveted events begins with one crucial step: Read More
The Grinch who was stolen for Christmas: Copyright Infringement in Holiday Crafts
As the festive season draws near, a familiar green face begins to crop up in holiday markets and online stores: The Grinch. This beloved character from Dr. Seuss’s classic has become a staple in Christmas art and craft items. However, beneath the surface of these cheerful creations lies a complex issue of copyright and trademark Read More
The Importance of Watermarking
Defending Your Artistic Creations and Empowering Your Customers In today’s digital age, where the sharing and distribution of creative works has become effortless, artists and creatives face numerous challenges in safeguarding their intellectual property. To protect their creations, one valuable tool they can employ is the use of watermarks on images shared online. Let’s explore Read More
Choice paralysis: More isn’t always better.
Marketers often believe that offering a wider range of options increases the likelihood of customers making a purchase. For example, having 50 different styles of hats rather than just two can improve the chances of shoppers finding a suitable one. However, research has proven that too much choice can have negative consequences. Customers may be Read More
The importance of good photos for craft show applications.
Craft shows present a valuable opportunity for artisans and makers to showcase their creations and connect with potential customers. However, to secure a spot at a professionally operated show, you need to apply, and these shows are usually curated. That means that not every applicant will be accepted, as the organizers will carefully select which Read More