We feel it is important to support small business with strong ethics. Meet a few of the folks responsible for creating our quality, one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods. These artists represent the true spirit of our store. Celebrate Individuality and Creativity!
If you offer handmade products at wholesale pricing, please read our artist sales information page and feel free to contact us. We'd love to hear from you!

Shari Ashwell - Pomfret, CT
Hi, my name is Shari and I am a stay-at-home mom of three children in the Last Green Valley of Connecticut. As a child, I was always interested in learning and trying new arts and crafts projects at home. Now that I am older, my creative passion has been renewed. During my only free time (naptime!), I am able to sit down and use my newfound inspiration to design original pieces of jewelry. It is important to me that all of my materials are never used in animal testing nor are they ever composed of any animal bi-products. Every creation is just as unique as the people who purchase them. I would love to create a beautiful accessory just for you!
P.S. - Like what you see, but it's already sold? Contact us and Shari will custom create one especially for you (while supplies last).

Josie Lamb - Lexington, KY
Kentucky jewelry artist, Josie Lamb has always been driven to build a stronger connection between the natural and human world, and her organic yet intricate jewelry is a manifestation of this desire. Many of her works feature materials gathered from forest floors, the ocean, and urban shade trees.
She carefully crafts each piece from recycled sterling silver wire, accented by natural stones and an eclectic variety of scavenged materials. The metal work is done with traditional hand tools (plus a very beloved dremel drill) and is finished with hammer, rubber mallet, and files to add texture and durability. She is proud to say that all of her work is free the from toxic fluxes and finishing chemicals that are so common in the jewelry industry.

Megan Savage - Edmonds, WA
Universol Aromas Candle Company was started in the fall of 2006. Owner, Megan Savage, a born vegetarian, started the company with the intention of creating a quality, non-toxic candle that smelled wonderful, yet was cruelty-free and supported the U.S. economy. Universol Aromas' candles are vegan and are created using 100% U.S. pesticide-free soybean wax. There are also incense sticks available in appealing aromas. Try our special selection of Nag Champa, Relaxation, Pure, and Starlight Grove Soy Candles & Incense today and...Happy Burning!!!

Lauren D. Markley - Princeton, NJ
One of my first ambitions as a kid was to become a fashion designer. After years of pursuing other careers, I finally returned to my artistic roots while living in Japan and began studying dressmaking and pattern drafting. Fair Industry is my way of indulging my creative instincts while doing something positive to benefit humankind and the planet. Currently, I work with two fair trade organizations - handweavers in Bangladesh and makers of beautiful, handcrafted jewelry in Kenya.
Fair Industry is committed to helping eliminate poverty by upholding the principles of fair trade. The people who make our clothing and jewelry are paid a fair wage, receive advance payments for raw materials and work in safe, healthy environments. All products are sweatshop-free, and nothing is mass-produced.

Patches Julie - Utica, NY
Julie started sewing at 7 years old, when she couldn't even reach the pedal, so her grandmother worked it for her. Showing a great interest in sewing at such a young age, Julie's Gram taught her all of the skills and techniques necessary for handcrafting quality goods. Julie has continued sewing for over 20 years still using her old metal Singer along with a Tailor machine and a Brother serger. She puts alot of time and love into each piece - from her signature side-panel patchwork recycled jeans and cords to one-of-a-kind apron tops and jewelry.
"I'm a pretty easygoing hippie mama who stitches patchwork clothes for a living :) I love being outdoors, barefoot, and flying my kite! I love music, dancing (to my own silly beat), reading, animals, trees, daisies, and the simple things in life. I strive to make all my goods durable, comfortable and long lasting and look forward to creating something that you will love as much as I will love making it! ". |