My second love these days is knitting. I know the technicalities, but I'm not really very good. I can't make cables or follow shaping patterns very well. I haven't made anything larger than a hat because I just don't have the patience for it. But when I'm not in the mood to get muddy, or the studio is too cold (or unbearably hot in the middle of August), I take to the couch with needles and yarn. In a lot of ways, I think fiber and clay are very similar tactile experiences. It's using your hands to shape and grow the material. It's giving it texture and form. It's functional.

One of my favorite fiber artists on Etsy is phydeaux. I'm really drawn to her combinations of lovely yarn and simple patterns. There's something about letting the material really shine.

Her Napa Harvest Scarf was the first to catch my eye. Just look at those gorgeous colors!


This Cranberry Merino Cowl / Neckwarmer is a great example of texture:


A simple, classic Butterscotch Mohair Scarflette / Neckwarmer, a classic, versatile accessory!


If you're looking for some warmth this holiday season take a look at her full shop for lots of great finds:

I've been telling everyone who will listen about this great find I picked up at the flea/antique yesterday. Sometimes it's the simplest things that make me happy - like organizational furniture for the studio! Everyone talks about "spring cleaning" but I think "fall cleaning" is really a must as the holiday season gets so hectic that staying organized is key to keeping my sanity. And for only $20 I feel a little more sane already.

I've been trying to decide how to add some color to my dull decor and while perusing the multitude of wonderful artists on Etsy I came across paintingprints.etsy.com which hosts prints of original works by Amy Giacomelli, under the brush name Natalia Skye. First, I saw fabulous flowers in a kind of nouveau-folk style (yes, I made up that word):

Then, I saw an adorable bird:

And a solitary tree with an empty swing:

So simple, yet it says so much.
I'm not sure which I'll choose, but it's sure to be fabulous regardless. If you're interested in the original works, visit AmyGiacomelli.etsy.com and SkyeArt.etsy.com.

This is not a political blog, and unless a candidate wants to ban shino glazes or raku firings, I don't plan on making it one. But I think voting is less about politics and more about making decisions that are right for you and your family. So, to all the US readers out there, be sure to vote today if you haven't already. Then pat yourself on the back and stop at Starbucks for a free cup of coffee:

One year ago today I discovered the wonder of Etsy and was immediately hooked! Not only have I been able to connect with wonderfully supportive buyers around the world, but also with amazing artists, creative spirits, and a fabulous handmade community! Thank you all for being who you are and here's to another year

TODAY ONLY - 11/03/08 - 10% off everything in the shop!
Just put "Etsyversary" in the message to seller box upon checkout and pay as usual. I will refund your discount through Paypal.