Columbus Crafty Cotillion

Three Cheers!

2012-01-26T06:42:00.000-08:00

When this year's nominations for the Columbus Alive's Best of Columbus poll were released last week you may have noticed a few familiar names on the ballot. The Cotillion was well represented with nominations for Sweet Stella Designs, Stinkybomb Soap, and Poshta Design in the Best Brand without a Storefront category, Wholly Craft in the Best Gift Shop and Best Place for Accessories categories, and Rivet in the Best Art Gallery category. We're proud of our ladies for their hard work and recognition!

The Best of Columbus voting continues until March 1st at Noon, so you have plenty of time to cast your votes. And remember, you can also use the write-in option to show your support for the folks you believe deserve a little recognition. Happy voting!

Craftin' Outlaws Holiday Pop-Up Market

2011-11-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

Join us this weekend as we team up with Craftin' Outlaws to kick off the holiday shopping season! Sunday, November 27th from Noon-4:00 you can shop from some of your favorite local handmade heroes at the Craftin' Outlaws Holiday Pop-Up Market at Ace of Cups Bar (2619 N High Street - in the north campus area). Crafters peddling their wares include:

Stinkybomb Soap
Wholly Craft
Poshta Design
AmyD
Sweet Stella Designs
Mary Moon Designs
What the Rock?!
Miss Megan Mac
Mary Martineau
Torn Angel
Creux Poche
Out of the Pink Sky
Igloo Letterpress
Flamestitch

We hope to see you there!

Spotlight on Coyan Decor!

2011-07-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Cotillion is proud to showcase the newest venture for one of the hot members!
Check out Megan Coyan and her new line Coyan Decor on Columbus Underground!.

Local designer and Parsons School of Design graduate Megan Coyan is launching a line of high-end woven fabric for home interiors that’s made in the good ol’ USA.

Coyan Décor’s debut collection, called Ironwork, is lightweight cotton upholstery fabric featuring bold colors that pop against a rich ebony warp yarn.

“The patterns were influenced by ironwork in fencing, gates, churches, etc.,” said Coyan. “I’ve been photographing ironwork on my travels since I was a teenager. I have always loved the strong lines and curves created by such a dark, hard metal, and I’ve translated that strength into a far warmer, softer medium...”
Read the rest here about Megan's amazing effort to create these great fabrics.

Definitely something to keep your eye out for! You can also check out more of Megan's beautiful scarves & other wares on her Etsy Site!

Goodale Park Music Series!

2011-07-06T08:41:00.000-07:00

This summer the Crafty Cotillion will be setting up to sell handmade goods at the Goodale Park Music Series! The Goodale Park Music Series starts at 12:30pm on Sundays July 10th through August 21st. Concerts are free and always a fun afternoon in the sun!

We'll be alongside our friends at ThoughtCo and great local food carts including Leslie's Creperie, Earth's Crust Pizza, Rad Dog, and Jeni's Ice Cream. Bring the whole family down--kids activities at the concerts are sponsored by openheartART and Columbus Artmobile.

The Goodale Park music series was founded by Alexandra Kelley Fox in 2009 and is funded by the Short North Foundation, Short North Civic Association, Friends of Goodale Park, Harrison West Society, Italian Village Society, and Comfest.

The concerts are held at the gazebo in Goodale Park. Here's the 2011 line-up:
July 10: Happy Chichester
July 17th: Daddy Romance
July 31st: The Andy Shaw Band
August 7th: The Spikedrivers
August 14th: Kique Infante
August 21st: The Randys

Hope to see you there!

The Crafty Showcase Showdown

2011-05-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

Craftin' Outlaws presents: The Crafty Showcase Showdown from 7-10pm on Saturday, June 4th at Wild Goose Creative–this event is open to the public as well as Caucus participants.

The full vendor list is now available.

The highlight of the evening will be the return of Craft Corner Deathmatch, caucus style.

Teams of two will be challenged to think and craft on the fly, with a random selection of craft supplies. Each team will then be judged on their craft by a team of esteemed local judges: Johnny Diloretto – craft lover and TV personality on Fox28 Good Day Columbus. Jennie Scheinbach vegan queen behindPattycake Bakery. Jackie Mantey – bad ass reporter for the Columbus Alive. Last but not least winner of 2010 Deathmatch, Renee Parrill – mastermind behind Flamestitch.

Competitors play to win and only the toughest crafters will survive. Be prepared for glue gun burns, trash talking and battle scars. Winners walk away with bragging rights and title weight belts designed by none other than Flamestitch herself.

Our hostest for the mostest will be none other than the energetic, charismatic AmyD.

We can't wait to see you there!

Midwest Craft Caucus

2011-04-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the Midwest Craft Caucus yet?!

The Midwest Craft Caucus is a grassroots conference designed to foster the growth and sustainability of the handmade business community. One hundred handmade business owners will gather in Columbus, Ohio on June 4 & 5, 2011 to learn strategies for forming a sold business foundation, identifying target markets, and reaching those markets both online and in person.

The Craft Caucus will be presented at the Economic Community Development Institute (ECDI) and will feature over 25 panels, presentations and workshops on topics such as: Building a Brand, Utilizing Social Media, The Craft Fair Experience, Careers in Craft, Getting Published, Financial Planning, Working with Retailers, and much more.

Curious about the presenters? Check 'em out on the "News" page HERE!

614 Magazine!

2011-04-01T04:24:00.001-07:00

In April, some of the lovely ladies of the Crafty Cotillion are featured in an article in 614 Magazine! Pick up a free copy around town or read the article HERE!

Viewfinder!

2010-09-08T07:32:00.001-07:00

What happens when you combine the Junctionview Open House with our Annual Holiday Craft extravaganza? Viewfinder!
Junctionview Studios has invited the Crafty Cotillion to come and play, creating a one of a kind event that features handmade goods, fine art on the walls, and open studios throughout the building.
More details coming soon.

Indie Inc. Wrap-Up

2010-07-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

Check out crafty ladies Amy N., Olivera, AmyD, Kara, and Megan G. lookin' lovely at Indie Inc. - a great event last week for small business owners. We learned about taxes and legal traps, marketing, and LLCs - and we also got to sample mead, vodka, beer and pizza from local businesses. Thanks to The SBB (Small Busniness Beanstalk) and Sandbox Columbus for hosting this awesome event. Big thanks also to Schade Photography for taking head-shots (or in our case, goofy cute photos) for social media.

Handmade Nation Screening and Spring Trunk Show!

2010-04-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

We're so excited to co-sponsor the Columbus premiere of Handmade Nation, a documentary by Faythe Levine chronicling the rise of the indie craft movement. And, the screening is held in conjunction with our Spring Trunk featuring new works from our members.

The screening will be held Saturday, May 8th at 3pm at Studio 35 (3055 Indianola Ave.). The trunk show will precede the screening from 1-3pm. Arrive early to enjoy a beer and shop for the perfect handmade Mother's Day gift.

Tickets to the screening are $5 and will be available the day of the show. The trunk show is absolutely free and open to the public. The event is sponsored by Studio 35 , Wholly Craft!, and the Columbus Crafty Cotillion.

Participating Cotillion members include:
AmyD
Crafty Beavers
Flamestitch
Igloo Letterpress
Laura Stith
Maram
Mary Martineau
Mary Moon Designs
Miss Megan Mac
Out of the Pink Sky
Poshta Stationery & Design
Stinkybomb
Sweet Stella Designs
Take Wrning
Tornangel012
Tsurubride
Umbrella Girl Productions
What the Rock?!
Wholly Craft!

Hope to see you on the 8th!!

"BIG" at Lindsay Gallery!

2010-03-01T12:40:00.001-08:00

Hey, crafties! Come see some art knitting!

Cotillion member Alissa (that's me) is having a show with the amazing Morris Jackson! Please come! It will be a par-tay!

You can RSVP on Facebook!

Temproary Venue Change

2010-02-22T13:31:00.000-08:00

The Surly Girl Saloon, where we usually have our Cotillion meetings, is closed today. They are so awesome that they are taking the staff tubing! So we decided to move the meeting to Mad Mex. I've never been there, but I hear is $5 margaritas, and well, I like my drinks.

here is a link to the location, i think

http://www.madmex.com/regions/columbus/entrance/

Craftin' Outlaws CU Podcast!

2009-10-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

Check out this podcast from ColumbusUnderground.com about the upcoming Craftin' Outlaws show. These ladies did a great job of organizing and promoting the event and I hope everyone is getting excited!

Craftin' Outlaws

2009-09-30T19:55:00.000-07:00

Leave your holsters at home and bring your pocket books for the 5th Annual Craftin' Outlaws! We have a new host, new vendors, new games and plenty of free fun!

Over 60 talented vendors will fill The Lodge Bar with their handmade plush, handbags, clothing, jewelry, bath and beauty products, paper goods, knitted wares and artwork.

Shop early and be one of the first 100 Paying Customers of the day to recieve a swag bag stuffed with vendor samples and coupons!

We are returning with the Craft Corner Deathmath! Expect bigger egos and even BIGGER prizes.
Craft bingo will allow you to rest your legs, sip your drink and win some amazing prizes donated by our sponsors and craft vendors.
Portions of all proceeds from games will once again sponsor Rwanda Knits!
Tasty treats will be provided by The Lodge Bar, Rad Dog and Pattycake Bakery. Not to mention some free ice cream courtesy of the CD101 Ice Cream Truck at 1:30pm.
Grab a tall glass of our house drink "Bitch with a Twist" an apple cider rum, available all day.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Handmade Expo!

2009-07-29T06:42:00.001-07:00

Craft and Crash at the Ohio State Fair!

2009-07-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

Handmade Expo Vendor List!

2009-07-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

You can find all of these fabulous vendors at the Columbus Crafty Cotillion Handmade Expo on Saturday August 8th from 12-7pm at the Ohio State Fair!

Anne Holman Jewelry Design

Beth's Pottery

Cheeky Stitches

Cynthia Vardhan Ceramics

Ellen Seeburger

Four Munkees

Poshta Stationery and Design

636.7

Smarty Pants

Spacedog Studios

Stinkybomb Soap

Umbrella Girl Productions

What the Rock

Wholly Craft

Yumi Yumi

Zette Made

Hope to see you there!!

Crafty Cotillion Members Featured in Crafts Report!

2009-06-11T03:28:00.000-07:00

We are so excited that Crafty Cotillion members Olivera (Wholly Craft), AmyD, Alissa (Creatrix Jane/Liberty Handknits), Emily (Umbrella Girl Productions) and Amy N. (Sweet Stella Designs) are featured in July's Crafts Report magazine! Writer Nancy LaFever did an excellent job of capturing a

slice of the alt-craft scene in Columbus.

Can you believe that the Crafty Cotillion has been hanging out and talking about making things for over 2 years?! It seems like just yesterday we had out first meet-up in the back room of the Surly Girl Saloon, having drinks and sharing ideas about our craft and how to build a sense of community.

Now, the Crafty Cotillion has some amazing national exposure! We hope that folks will take note of what we're doing here in Columbus and apply it to their city or hometown.

You can check out the article here, although you may need to purchase an online subscription to see the magazine in its entirety.

One Week Left To Apply!

2009-05-24T12:02:00.001-07:00

Hey Ohio Crafters!

There's one week left to apply for the Columbus Crafty Cotillion Handmade Expo! The Handmade Expo is Saturday, August 8th at the Family Fun Pavillion of the Ohio State Fair and will feature 30+ Ohio-based indie craft vendors selling all sorts of great handmade items. Vendor information and applications are available here. Applications must be received by June 1st, so get em in soon!

Crafty Cotillioners @ the CTA Craftstravaganza!

2009-04-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was the CTA Craftstravaganza, a crafty fundraiser for the Columbus Torah Academy. It was great to see so many creative and talented vendors all in one spot! Everyone's table set-ups were just perfect and the space felt really bright and inviting. It was a great time for shoppers and vendors alike.

Here are a few photos of some of the Crafty Cotillion members who participated in the Craftstravaganza:

Liberty Handknits/Creatrix Jane by Alissa Sorenson

Olivera from Wholly Craft (plus the lovely AmyD)

Emily Westenhouser from Umbrella Girl Productions with her sewn stationery & headbands

Call For Vendors!

2009-04-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

Applications are now available for the Columbus Crafty Cotillion Handmade Expo at the Ohio State Fair! This craft fair will be held at the Family Fun Pavillion of the Ohio State Fair on Saturday, August 8th from 12 - 7pm. The event is sponsored by the Cotillion but spaces are open to any Ohio vendors selling handmade goods. Applications, photos, and fees must be received by Monday, June 1st. The application and vendor information can be downloaded HERE.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Handmade Expo, please contact Mary Martineau at mmartineau@northmarket.com for more information.

A Craft Revolution!

2009-03-05T12:22:00.000-08:00

Check out the article about some of Columbus' hip crafters in the Life & Arts section of today's Dispatch! Also noteworthy is the additional info about upcoming indie craft events in Columbus. This has been a great week in the press for the Crafty Cotillion!

It's refreshing to see that publications such as the Dispatch take note of the independent stuff happening around our city and really see the value in it. Hopefully, articles like these will turn more people on to the idea of buying local, handmade products.

CTA Craftstravaganza

2009-03-03T09:07:00.001-08:00

Our own Amy N of Sweet Stella is heading up the CTA Craftstravaganza. This looks like perfect timing since it's right before Mother's Day. Go check out the website and if you are feeling crafty, you should apply!

Our Crafty Pals Did It Again!

2009-03-02T12:25:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to say congrats to Wholly Craft and What the Rock, who, for the second year in a row, won votes in Columbus ALIVE's annual Best of Columbus poll. What the Rock won for "Best Gift Shop" and Wholly Craft snagged the "Best Craft Store" category.

In addition, Rivet was a runner-up in the "Best Gift Shop" category and our favorite local hang-out the Surly Girl Saloon won the "Best Bar Food" category.

Keep supporting those awesome local businesses!

Free Lunch at AmyD on Thursday

2009-02-10T06:54:00.000-08:00

Hey! Who doesn't love a free lunch? This Thursday 2/12 from 12 - 1:30 we are having a free lunch at the shop, provided by The Lucky Ladle! On hand will be Chicken Noodle, Broccoli Cheddar and Vegan Chili. btw, the Vegan Chili is the best I have ever tasted!
The Lucky Ladle is a new business offering free delivery of her wonderful soups with your choice of bread, cornbread, or crackers.
So stop by AmyD and Rain Brothers at 219 E. Arcadia on Thursday!
questions? email AmyD at amyd@madebyamyd.com or call Shannon of The Lucky Ladle at 614-596-3570

Upcoming Classes at Wholly Craft!

2009-01-27T09:17:00.000-08:00

These are the upcoming classes at Wholly Craft!
I'm very curious about needle felting. Also, I love a handmade valentine.
If you can make it to my beginning embroidery class, it's pretty fun! We have a good time and you get to take home your own embroidery kit and pattern.

Needle Felted Valentines
Monday February 9th, 6-8pm
Class Fee: $15
Materials Fee: $15 (includes set of felting needles, foam block, red, pink, and white roving, red and pink flat felt. If you'd like other specific colors please bring them yourself)
Tis the season to create a valentine straight from the heart! And, in this case, you can pick up a great crafty skill while you’re at it! In this workshop, you’ll learn a dry needle felting technique and use this to create a 3D needlefelt appliqué on flat felt background. Your sweetest peas will be ever so pleased! No experience required.

Introduction to Embroidery
Sunday, February 22nd, 1-3pm
Class Fee: $15
Materials Fee: $5 (includes hoop, floss, needle, and sublime stitching pattern of your choice!)
Do you dream of having a stitched pinup or darling dachshund on your pillow or skirt? Well here’s your chance to make it happen! In this workshop, you will learn several basic embroidery stitches and how to put them to use in your own designs. Also, you’ll learn multiple fun and easy image transfer methods to ensure that almost any image will be ready to be rocked (with an embroidery needle) onto your fabric. Local designer and super fun instructor AmyD has been incorporating embroidery into her designs for years and will share all the best tricks of the trade!

My White Elephant Gift

2009-01-27T06:57:00.000-08:00

If you weren't at the Crafty Cotillion meeting last night, you missed the White Elephant Exchange. I know you must be curious about what went down, so here's what I received in my big, purple, sparkly bag!

A 99 cent, arty phonebook,

a blue magnetboard,

mission style chimes (you know you covet,)

incense to match,

a cube, cherub candle (admit you're jealous,)

snowpeople salt and pepper shakers,

a snowman/ice block man tea light holder (okay, the snowman stuff is going to my sister who loves snowmen,)

wine charms (she might get those, too,)

a clown bicycle bell! (no touchy!)

the cutest glass piggy bank (!!! -- I threatened anyone who would dare take this treasure from me,)

a digital photo keychain (which will be loaded with photos of my white elephant gift, of course,)

a peach scrunchie (useful!)

lavender, olive oil soap (which might be old, I'm not sure. Does soap get old?)

and a note to explain it all.

There. Aren't you envious?

My Newest Incarnation!

2009-01-02T17:25:00.000-08:00

craftin' showdown

2008-07-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Since 2005 artist and crafter, not to mention Cotillion member, Liz Rosino, aka Lucky Kat, founded Craftin' Outlaws.
Columbus's first alternative craft fair as a platform for selling her unique product line of rockabilly style clothing and hand painted decor.
4 years later, her brainchild for bringing independent handmade wares to the Columbus masses has grown by leaps and bounds.
Craftin' Outlaws has grown so large that Liz chose to make the move from Skully's to BOMA, (bar of modern art) to better accommodate her 60 vendors and the hundreds if not thousands who come annually to shop and support our craft community.
In doing so, Skully's has moved in on what Liz has worked so hard to create
By starting what they are calling their "4th annual alternative craft fair". The flier distributed to
promote this event is even reusing the same font used these past 4 years by Craftin' Outlaws, and mimicking the application from last years show.
So please don't be confused.
There is still only one true independent 4th annual craft show in town.
Show your support and help spread the word.

Crafty Vendors at COMFEST 2008!

2008-06-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

Ah, it's almost Comfest time again! And you know what that means...beer, tasty food, live music, good vibes, and the one-of-a-kind vendors that criss-cross their way through Goodale Park in Columbus from June 27th-29th.

While you are navigating through the seemingly endless sea of tents with people selling their wares (with a beer in one hand and a turkey leg or a veggie dog in the other!), make sure to stop by these booths for some quality unique & handmade items created with love!

Wholly Craft!
Etsy Team Columbus (MooganCreations, Sweet Stella Designs, Mara M., Jewels of Luxury, Miss Megan Mac, Out of the Pink Sky Designs, Arteest, Gems by Jules, Adornables by Lyn)
Mary Martineau
Lucky Kat
Mary Moon
Starfish Designs
Umbrella Girl Productions & TakeWrning
What The Rock!?
Rivet Gallery
Chop Chop Gallery

Panel Discussion!

2008-06-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

Thinking about starting an indie craft business? Or are you looking for some new ideas for growing your existing business? Then join members of the Columbus Crafty Cotillion for a free panel discussion on "Marketing Your Indie Craft Business" on Wednesday, June 11th from 6-8pm at Wholly Craft (3169 N. High St.).

It'll be enlightening and entertaining. And if all else fails, there'll be snacks.

Hope to see you there!

Crafting For A Cause!

2008-05-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

On the evening of May 15, Rachel Widomski was seriously injured by a hit-and-run driver outside of Haiku restaurant. Rachel’s severe spinal cord injuries will leave her paralyzed for life. Please join us in a city-wide fundraising effort to help support Rachel and her family during her long road to recovery.

We have set up an Etsy shop called HaikuHelp where we will be selling handmade goods from crafters in Columbus. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Rachel Widomski Medical Trust fund.

For more info or to hear Rachel's story, please visit haikuhelp.com.

If you would like to contribute your handmade item to the HaikuHelp Etsy shop, please contact AmyD or Amy N.

cbus sampler on sale now!

2008-04-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

these are going fast so act now.
a great big thanks to sweet stella for organizing such a great local project
we have also had lots of press about the local event. Today members amyd and bootleg were featured on the dispatch.
there was also a sighting on craftzine's blog.
listen for amy of sweet stella on cd101 this wednesday morning, promoting the sampler too!

Best of Columbus!

2008-03-30T06:13:00.001-07:00

Congrats to the following Crafty Cotillion folks for their Best of Columbus 2008 wins in the Columbus ALIVE:

Best Bar Food: Surly Girl Saloon
(our favorite spot!)

Best Gift Shop: What the Rock!?

Best Craft Store: Wholly Craft!

And, for scoring multiple honorable mentions:
Runner up for Best Art Gallery/Best New Store: Rivet

City Sampler: Columbus

2008-03-18T03:19:00.001-07:00

The Columbus City Sampler drops on April 7, 2008!! Get Ready!!

Shop Local!

2008-01-26T21:17:00.001-08:00

Check out what Columbus crafters are selling on Etsy.com!

Use Etsy's "Shop Local" feature to find sellers in a neighborhood near you!

City Sampler: Columbus

2008-01-19T16:28:00.001-08:00

City Sampler: Columbus (a special version of The Sampler) will feature items exclusively from crafters, DIYers and awesome businesses from Columbus and the surrounding area!

The Sampler is going local! We're creating samplers that focus on business from specific cities, towns, and regions! Along with the samples, we'll be providing all kinds of fun and interesting information and materials about the cities we're featuring!

The Sampler has spent the last three years distributing the very best handmade and indie communities have to offer. It has been really great collecting items from artists, crafters, musicians, and alternative publications all over the US, and the world! Now we'd like to try to go local - and we'd like you to be a part of it!

City Sampler: Columbus will be a new and fun way to experience both the city and The Sampler. We'd like to invite you to send us samples of your work or your product along with some promotional items, so that we can distribute them to people who are interested in supporting local businesses!

There are many benefits to contributing to the Sampler, and we know that the City sampler will provide you with an equally great opportunity!

If you send us Samples - the minimum being 10, the maximum being 100 - you may also send us 100 promo items for the City Sampler, which will reach 100 fans of Columbus (and the surrounding area) culture! You may also include an unlimited number of promos for regular issues of The Sampler, which reaches 500 subscribers and members of the media each month! For more info on contributing and promos, please see http://www.homeofthesampler.com/contributors/tips.html

Your Samples will be photographed for The Sampler website, and mentioned in the City Sampler Guide we will include in every City Sampler! So even if you only send 10 items, your business info will appear in all 100 City Samplers.

All items must be received by March 30th, 2008. Please email contribute@homeofthesampler.com with your submission ideas, or with any questions you might have about the Sampler!

You can also contact Amy N. directly in Columbus if you have any questions or would like to contribute. Artists, crafters, musicians, business/restaurant owners, etc. are all welcome to submit materials.

January Challenge

2008-01-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

To try and stir up some different creative juices in the new year, the Crafty Cotillion will have a monthly color palette selection. The challenge for the month will be to use any, some, all the colors in the palette and show it off at the end of the month! Any mediums are welcome! Good Luck
January's Selection is "Get your luv on winter"

Photos from the Holiday Party!

2007-12-16T05:33:00.000-08:00

The Crafty Cotillion celebrated the season of gift-giving with a fun little get-together at Wholly Craft, delicious food (chocolate fountain!!) and a fabulous secret gift-swap.
Big thanks to Olivia for being such a lovely hostess, and thanks to everyone for participating in the gift swap. I don't think anyone will be complaining that they received something lame!
Here are some great photos from the evening, thanks to Patrice! See more at the Crafty Cotillion Flickr photoset.

Holiday Party!

2007-12-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

A great week for Anne Holman!

2007-12-02T18:55:00.000-08:00

First, Anne appeared on Good Morning Columbus, to talk about Etsy, handmade gifts for the holidays, and the Handmade Pledge.

Then, I just noticed that she scored a spot on the front page of Etsy! (There is her Glass Bouquet Necklace, top center).

Way to go, Anne! You rock our socks off.

Tiny Canary This Weekend!!

2007-11-12T08:35:00.001-08:00

Inspired by the DIY craft movement, Tiny Canary Indie Design Market, was organized to support independent designers and artists locally and regionally while celebrating the spirit of the handmade community worldwide.

An alternative for the gift giving season, Tiny Canary, a modern arts and crafts market, will have over 40 independent designers and makers of everything from jewelry and handmade clothing, to original plush and home décor. November 17 and 18, from 10 am – 6 pm each day, Junctionview Studios (889 Williams Ave. Grandview Heights, Ohio) will serve as a temporary marketplace for early holiday shoppers who prefer a unique alternative to the overcrowded and over-commercialized shopping malls. Parking and entrance to the event are free.

Not only will shoppers have the opportunity to purchase some truly unique items, but they can also speak to the creator of the items themselves. In a time when sustainability and buying local is becoming more prevalent and valued, purchasing handmade goods directly from artists and designers is an assured way to see that the dollars spent are going directly to fuel an individual’s creative drive and the local economy.

Tiny Canary is organized by Aline Yamada and Anne Holman, both self-employed mothers and independent artists themselves, who felt the desire to provide an opportunity to regional artists as well as create an awareness of the rapidly growing community of crafters worldwide. As enthusiastic buyers and sellers on Etsy.com, an online marketplace for handmade goods, the two have witnessed the growth and camaraderie amongst people like themselves who have found the support to make a living doing what they love. “There is nothing quite like knowing that the item you buy has been created individually by someone’s hands. It really adds a lot to know that someone put their time, creativity and soul into the object.” states Yamada. Adding to that, Holman says “Buying handmade is such a purposeful and hopeful act. You are investing in someone’s life and future, rather than supporting a big box store with no compassion for the individual. ” Yamada and Holman have each signed the pledge at BuyHandmade.org, stating they intend to give handmade gifts for the holidays, and prefer that others do the same for them. Tiny Canary will be a perfect opportunity to get started on your handmade holiday.

For more information: www.tinycanary.com

Contact: thebird@tinycanary.com
Phone: 614.361.4090

Tiny Canary Vendor Spotlights

2007-10-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

I have created thread on ColumbusUnderground.com about the upcoming Tiny Canary. I will be doing a few vendor spotlights each week, so be on the lookout!

North Market Contest!

2007-10-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

North Market Holiday Food Festival

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Along with showcasing all the delicious and unique offerings the North Market has year around and especially during the holiday season, we will host our first ever Gingerbread House Contest. The contest judging will begin at Noon where a panel of architects and designers will select the winner. The grand prize is a $250 North Market shopping and dining spree. All houses become the property of the North Market and will be kept on display in the windows of the Dispatch Kitchen through the month of December.

Parking is available at the North Market for $1.00/hour (up to two hours), with validation from a North Market merchant. There is also a limited amount of meters around the Market and a parking garage located on Vine Street.

Bring your family and friends to support you! We have so much planned for this day like live music, oodles of cooking demonstrations and the opportunity for your kids to make and decorate their own mini gingerbread houses!

Please call Mary Martineau, Director of Marketing, to have a contest registration form mailed to you or if you have any questions, 614-463-9664.

See you at the Market!

Upcoming Goodness @ Wholly Craft

2007-10-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

In case you're not on the Wholly Craft email list, here is the text of the most recent newsletter. Enjoy!

UPCOMING EVENTS

2 Year Anniversary Party!!
Friday October 26, 7-10pm













Join us in celebrating our 2 year anniversary with a
special Halloween happy hour bash that will get you
rearing to go for the rest of the party weekend and
for the future of your favorite DIY craft store! Enjoy
free food and drink while reveling to the sounds of a
Live DJ! And it’s not a party without a costume
contest, so get cracking on your homemade costume this
year! If you need another reason to wear your
Halloween best: Costume clad partygoers get 20% off
anything in the store! Cheers to Two Years!

Alison Rose Fall Line Up Launch!
Friday November 2, 7-11pm

Local designers Alison Rose launch their new line with
an extra special trunk show at Wholly Craft! Come to
check out all new handscreened t-shirts, totes,
wallets, and much more! And while you’re here, stick
around for free food and drink and some excellent live
music featuring: Eric Metronome, Bird and Flower, and
Joe Anderl. This is a show not to be missed! Get a
preview of the goods at www.alisonrose.com

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES

Twisted Stitches: Weekly Knitting Labs!
Every Sunday Night, 6-8pm
Lab Fee: $5
Bring your needles and yarn and take your knitting
skills to the next level! Come for one session or come
for them all! A new skill is covered every week: 10/14
– Increasing and Decreasing, 10/21 – Read your
Knitting, 10/28 – Cabling, 11/4 – Fair Isle /
Two-color Knitting, 11/11 – Magic Loop, 11/18 --
Finishing Tricks.

Decoupage It!
Wednesdays October 17 and 24, 6:30-8pm
Class Fee: $25
Ever wanted to learn the art of decoupage from an
expert ‘pager? Here you’ll learn several handy
techniques to turn ordinary objects into practical art
collages. We’ll use a simple frame, your own
paper/imagery, and our collective imagination. We’ll
add a few embellishments to the project and finish it
off in two simple sessions. The skills you’ll gain can
later be applied to just about anything you can get to
stand still long enough.  Materials Fee: $5 (all
materials provided)

Amigurumi Crochet
Thursdays, October 18 and 25, 6:30-8pm
Class Fee: $25
During this class you will discover the art of
amigurumi crochet and create your very own little
creature! Very basic crochet skills required During
the first session, we will learn how to crochet both
the body and legs so it can be finished at home.
During the second session, we will attach the legs,
embroider the mouth, add the plastic eye, stuff and
seal up.
Materials Fee: $10 (all materials and tools included)

Spin Your Own Darn Yarn!
Thursday, November 8, 6-8pm
Class Fee: $15















If you’ve ever been dazzled at the amazing
possibilities different yarns offer to your knitting
projects, now is the time to try your hand at
spinning! Creating your own yarn is the next step for
any dedicated follower of fiber. In this workshop,
you’ll make a drop spindle, learn the basics, and
start spinning away!
Class Fee: $15
Materials Fee: $10

Felted Book Covers
Saturday November 10 and Sunday November 11, 2-4pm
Class Fee: $25
In this weekend intensive, you’ll master the art of
wet felting (it’s messy but fun!) and create a  unique
felted journal cover that makes the perfect gift.
Felting will covered during the first session, and the
next day we will sew the journal together and add
embellishments.
Materials Fee: $10 (for wool, binding, and journal
paper)
Materials Needed: First session: latex gloves, Second
Session: scissors, sewing and embroidery needles,
yarn, embroidery thread, beads, needle felting
supplies, or any other embellishments for your journal
cover

Holiday Cards Part 1: Stamping
Monday November 12, 6-8pm
Class Fee: $15
Create your own unique holiday cards this year using a
variety of stamping techniques taught by author and
stamping master Heidi Kinnamon! She’s demonstrate
several methods that come together to form elaborate
cards unique to your own sense of style.

Holiday Cards Part 2: Print Gocco
Wednesday November 14, 6-8pm
Fee: $15
What is the magical screenprinting machine that
revolutionized home stationery in Japan in the 1970’s?
Well, it’s the Print Gocco , a little wonder that can
burn a screen in seconds and easily print any small
image onto greeting cards, paper, and more! Jessie is
a veteran Gocco enthusiast and will help you create
your own set of holiday cards.
Materials Fee: $10
Note:  your materials fee includes what you need to
make one master screen, a small selection of paper to
print on, and a variety of premade clip art and text
you can use to create an original.  If you have an
idea already of what you'd like to make in class, you
are welcome to bring along your own artwork and/or
text- I recommend making a clean, crisp photocopy (not
a computer print-out) of your image, no larger than 4
by 6 inches.   Questions?  Contact Jessie at
jessiegb@gmail.com.

Beginning Knitting
Thursdays, November 15 and 29, 6:30-8pm
Class Fee: $25















Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Learn to knit
and share the bounty of your new skills with your
loved ones this season! This class is for absolute
beginners---we’ll start with the basics and move on up
to some serious scarf making. Seasoned knitter
Adrienne of the Crafty Beavers will teach us
casting-on, basic knit and purl stitches, changing
colors, and casting-off. In this class we’ll make an
ipod/cell phone cozie and  a scarf. All materials for
the cozie will be provided and the materials list for
the scarf will be discussed on the first night.
Materials Fee: $2

CRAFT MY RIDE CONTEST—TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

Hey Crafters—Scion’s Craft My Ride Contest is almost
over! If you haven’t come up with a design yet, get
cracking!

You have from now until October 22 to submit accessory
designs for items such as key chains, seat covers,
floor mats, steering wheel covers, tissue holders,
etc., to www.CraftMyRide.com. Crafters will need to go
to the website to obtain rules and instructions. A
pool of crafty retail stores  (including Wholly
Craft!) chosen from across the United States will
judge submissions, and finalists (who will then have
to actually create the design) will be chosen in
November. Judges will select the winners based on
creativity, usefulness, and marketability. The first
place winner will receive a 2008 Scion xD, with the
second place and third place winners receiving $1,000
and $500 respectively. So get crafting in a hurry and
hopefully find your self in a sweet, sweet Scion this
winter!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS…..

For Tiny Canary Indie Design Market,  November 17 and
18th from 10am-6pm at Junctionview Studios. Tiny
Canary is an arts and crafts market bringing together
40 amazing designers for your holiday shopping
pleasure. Check out www.tinycanary.com for all the
scoop!

Hope to see you soon!

Love,
Wholly Craft

Wholly Craft
3169 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 447-3445
Open 1-8pm. Closed Tuesdays.

Crafty Cotillion Members Exhibiting at Agora Columbus!

2007-09-26T06:53:00.000-07:00

The Crafty Cotillion is well-represented at the upcoming Agora Columbus show.

So what is Agora?
Agora is "an immersive event that brings artists and art patrons together to celebrate Central Ohio's diverse and talented creative community. Agora guests have the opportunity to view and purchase hundreds of works of art, wander through fifty working artists' studios, experience performance acts, enjoy a variety of musical guests, and participate in seasonal activities. The event is designed to be enjoyable for guests of all ages. Everyone is invited to be a part of the experience."

And who is signed up to exhibit?
Tons of talented folks, including:
Jen Adrion
Anne Holman
Amy Neiwirth
Liz Rosino
Sharon Bell
Megan Green
Jessica McCoskey

There are only a few days left to register as an artist! Do it now!

Meeting Tonight! 8pm! Surly Girl!

2007-09-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

It's the last Monday of the month, so you know what that means- Meeting!

Columbus Crafty Cotillion Meeting. Monday night, Sept. 24th, back room of Surly Girl
8 pm
The discussion topic will be "Craft Projects Gone Awry". So bring an example of something you made that turned out to be a disaster. And regale us with the tale of how it all went wrong!! :)
Don't wimp out, people. Everyone better be there!!

(and if you were at Craftin Outlaws, leave your pics in the Flickr Pool!)

Shop Crafty Columbus!

2007-09-16T06:55:00.000-07:00

If you look to the right (on the sidebar), you will see the brand-new list entitled "Shop Crafty Columbus". It includes the online stores & blogs of many Columbus folks, along with descriptions of what they make/sell.

If your shop was left off of the list, feel free to add it, of post a reply here with your info!

Craftin' Outlaws in the Alive!

2007-09-14T12:18:00.000-07:00

Check out the article in the Alive about Craftin Outlaws and don't forget to stop in at Skully's tomorrow. Details: Craftin' Outlaws

Member Spotlight!

2007-09-10T13:36:00.001-07:00

Rivet Gallery
Laura Kuenzli, Gallery Owner
by Roger Grosswiler From the Columbus Alive!

Laura Kuenzli opened Rivet, a designer toy store and art gallery, just in time for June's Gallery Hop. "What's the big deal?" art enthusiasts might ask. Spaces like this, which offer in limited-edition runs the kind of lowbrow flavor found in Juxtapoz magazine, just aren't that common, period.
The majority of them are in larger cities already known for endless amounts of sweet stuff. Rivet joins Kidrobot, Schmancy and similar establishments in places like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle and Toronto.
While some stores in Columbus carry a handful of designer toys mixed in with other items, Rivet's retail focus is the toys. Some related art books and prints by artists who've shown at the space, or who fit with Kuenzli's aesthetic, are also regular fixtures.
Since opening shop, the business owner and curator has had plenty of artists e-mailing and stopping by to express interest in showing there. What she's put together so far is varied and impressive, including the nationally touring benefit show GimmeShelter.
The rest of this year features two-person shows, except for November, which will feature the plush toy group show Stuff This. England's Doktor A is on the schedule to showcase his paintings, sculptures and customized toys, and according to Kuenzli, her exhibition schedule is filling up through the spring.
Rivet Designer Toy and Art Gallery. 1200 N. High St., Short North 614-294-8697
Web: myspace.com/rivetgallery
Kuenzli also reported that on the retail side, her first few months of business have been a success. There's been a steady increase of both Gallery Hop attendees and general shoppers, including out-of-town visitors. Items have been moving steadily, and because when designer toys are gone, they're gone, there were only a couple of familiar items from my last visit.
"Turning inventory over faster has taken some getting used to," Kuenzli said. "It's a matter of finding what will appeal to people." If a new and exciting retail and gallery space and a most accommodating proprietor fit the bill, she's already found it.

Craftin' Outlaws!

2007-09-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

Craftin' Outlaws is this Saturday from noon to 7pm at Skully's Music Dinner in the Short North. There will be 60 great 'indie crafters' under one roof! Coupons for the 1st 100 in the door and RAFFLE PRIZES! Whoo-hoo!
Free to get in and where else can you see so much of the hotness of the Columbus Crafty Cotillion under one roof?
For now, just watch the YouTube Promo video.

Boost Your Business: Contribute to The Sampler!

2007-09-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

September was my first month as a contributor for The Sampler. Now what is The Sampler, you might ask?

Well, it's a very clever system where indie business owners & crafters send in samples of their work each month. People can purchase subscription to The Sampler, and when they receive it, they'll get a potpourri of adorably-packaged items from fabulous DIY folk! Not only is it great for the subscribers, it's good for you because it's a tool to promote you and your indie business.
Some of the subscribers are important media people who, if they are wowed by your samples, can feature you in their magazine or blog!

You can contribute anywhere from 25 to 200+ items, plus up to 350 promos (like business cards or logo buttons).
It's fairly labor-intensive and requires some extra planning, but it's worth it. Oh, and did I mention that if you contribute, you get a FREE Sampler for that month?

Etsy.com's new e-zine, the Storque, has an excellent article about The Sampler.

For September's Sampler, I contributed 25 little apple hairpins with a "back to school" theme.
Designing the packaging was the most fun.

If you are thinking about contributing, here are some very helpful links:

If you have contributed to The Sampler before, post a comment and share your experiences!

Welcome one and all!

2007-08-28T23:28:00.000-07:00

Welcome everyone to the blog of the Columbus Crafty Cotillion! We are a collective group, striving to support each other and increase awareness of the scene in Columbus. We have meetings at Surly Girl the last Monday of the month and will try and keep info posted here. We hope to hav biweekly featured artists on this site along with updates on events in the area. Browse around, look at our Flickr Pool on the right, and buy things from our sites and Etsy!