Actions speak louder.

Wow. 

Some powerful words, often heard - but how often taken to heart? I'm a parent, and having children has been the biggest motivator in changing my actions. I can tell them my expectations, I can try multiple reward systems and even teach them to pray for a changed heart; and that's the easy part of parenting! But how do I carry on conversations when I'm on the phone? Am I complaining? What is my attitude reflecting when I'm cleaning - my petty irritations, or joy? How do my husband and I deal with disagreements - selfishly or with grace? That's the hard part, I guess.

This also carries over into how I expect Benzie's customers to be treated. In both shops (felt and handmade) I strive for photos that communicate and descriptions that clearly and honestly state what it is that you're purchasing. I don't want there to be any unpleasant surprises! Benzie values integrity and it saddens me to come across shops that fib about the wool-content in their product or mislead a potential buyer on the way items are constructed. It's hard to show actions in an online world - but I want you to know that every garland is lovingly made, every description honest and each sheet of felt carefully packaged; wrinkles ironed out and promptly mailed to you my customer. I know how hard it is to wait for those packages! You might not see them - but these are my actions of appreciation for you - because actions always speak louder than words.

Image found via Oh, Hello Friend who found it via Atypical Type A (which may be my long lost crafting twin as her tag line reads "Creative Adventures of a Perfectionist") and final credit to the artist John Tibbot, whom I just supported by purchasing a print.

Thoughts of Summer

January is always a favorite for me -endless holiday list thrown away (finally!), empty calender, and a year full of possibilities ahead. And with that -so much energy and hopefulness in my heart. I anticipate adventures, new ideas and growth -in my family and in myself. But inevitably -hard times will come. I hope I will always find the Summer: bright, energetic and totally invincible.

Society 6 found via The Ardent Sparrow

Thoughts on Plagiarism in the Creative Marketplace

Subliminal hand work created by Nea.

It's dirty.

Deep down, in the very core of my being, I believe that we were created to be unique, and to create unique things. Sometimes designers, artists and crafters fall below their creative potential and steal someone else's work.

The truly amazing world wide web has flashed images of art and design, craft and photo into our minds -one after another with increasing speed. The delivery is exhilarating and overwhelming -but is any of it really new? A wise man once wrote "Nothing is new under the sun". Our ideas have grown and matured and changed -but at its very core -is anything really original? But we are created to create and what artists share is meant to be enjoyed. We are naturally inspired by good design -sometimes we may even desire to recreate that product as an exercise in learning -that is okay. Don't put your name on it and don't sell it. Give credit where credit is due.

What do I do if I like someone else's craft?

• Think long and hard before you choose to copy; a designer's income and reputation is at stake. Ask yourself what do you like about the artist’s work? How can you use the inspiration as a stepping stone to something even greater?  It may be best to simply appreciate your neighbor's talents and focus on developing your own unique brand of photos, presentation, copy and design. 

What do I do if I think someone else is copying my work?

• Think long and hard before you accuse someone of copying. The accused could actually have the same thoughts about your work -could it be a mere matter of coincidence and therefore even be used against you? We are influenced by the same culture and visit the same circles. Give your competitor the benefit of the doubt. If the copy and paste is blatant -please stick up for yourself, politely and professionally. And never slander in a public forum. We're trying to avoid being dirty -right?

I also encourage you to read DIY is not Duplicate it yourself from Decor8.  Also, if you don't read this thought provoking article from Paper n Stitch, at least view the poster!

A new beginning.

I have so many visions for this creative outlet, this online journal. Visions of beauty via the handmade; specifically using felt but I imagine that it will house much more than just felt creations. A place to celebrate our concepts, inspirations, and ideas while we give and grow from what we see and learn.

Thanks for taking this journey with me.