Earlier this year (what seems like 527 months ago), I took a pottery class at our local studio, Third Branch Pottery. The 6-week course focused on hand-building and slab construction. Of course, my efforts look like what they are: the work of a dedicated beginner, and that’s OK with me. My only disappointment was in
Other crafts
Updates and new directions: May 2020
Welcome back! After an intentional and much-needed hiatus we are finally ready to share what we’ve been up to for the past few months, most of which has overlapped with the pandemic outbreak of coronavirus in 2020. Highlights include Rick’s latest beer recipe, Melon Collie Berry, a thank-you to Trisha and Arthella, the hostesses with
2019 into 2020: celebrating successes, building community, and embracing inspiration
We hope you’ve had a satisfying and rewarding year of making. We certainly have, primarily on the brewing and knitting fronts, with a lot of natural dyeing as well. In each of these spheres, we’ve tried new types of projects, mastered skills, and published our own recipes and patterns. So come along and explore what
Refinishing a Sewing Machine Cabinet: Observations and tips from a first-time furniture restorer
What do you do when your partner picks up a beautiful, top-condition sewing machine in a cabinet for you at the local transfer station? Of course you get the machine a tune-up from the local expert. But what about the cabinet and all that flaking varnish? After giving serious consideration to outsourcing, I decided to
Maple Sugaring: A time-honored tradition celebrated with friends
Maple syrup is a big deal in Vermont, and for a small state we have a big share of production too: 42% of US-made maple syrup annually, accounting for more than $300 million in direct income. But how is maple syrup made, and what is it like to have your own small-scale operation at home?
27 – ReBecca Béguin: Shepherding as lifestyle and inspiration
We’ve known ReBecca for more than 10 years, and have come to appreciate her thoughtfulness and creativity as our friendship has grown. Join Sarah in conversation with ReBecca as we discuss her growth from accidental shepherd to committed advocate; her books that explore the human connection with the land; and her interest in our local
26 Pauline Van Gulden: Collaboration is an essential part of sewing creativity
I’ve been working quietly behind the scenes on a new design for a project bag for portable crafts, and couldn’t do it without the expert guidance of a professional seamstress like Pauline Van Gulden. Pauline was kind enough to sit down with me for a chat about her career and approach to designing. Some of
Sewing a Skirt & Sash – A Project for a Special Night
If you’ve been reading the blog or following on our YouTube channel for a while, you’ll know that I don’t talk about sewing much. That’s because I don’t sew much, or at least haven’t in a long time. This year I’m hoping that will change. I believe everyone should know how to sew their own
Holiday Films: Seasonal classics, and unusual favorites
We don’t always have time to watch as many of these as we’d like, but we love our holiday films. From classic and modern adaptations of A Christmas Carol, to more off-beat selections like About a Boy, there’s something here for every audience. Please share your holiday favorites by leaving a comment below! Filmography A
Beeswax Candles You Can Pour Yourself & Great Gifts
Sarah’s mother Nancy joins for a discussion of making your own beeswax candles at home. With a few tools and some helpful tips, you can make your own delicious-smelling candles, or give them as gifts. Beeswax is a byproduct of honey production, and readily available. We suggest finding a local source for beeswax via your