I am a huge fan of indie crafts — whether it's jewelry or not. If I ever need inspiration, I look at the works of the incredibly clever people who showcase their work on etsy.com. Inspiration usually comes at a price though. I rarely leave etsy.com without a visit to Paypal because there wwas something I just had to have. The picture above is of one of my latest purchases. It's a Loyd Dobler finger puppet (from the movie, "Say Anything"). The artist is abbeycristine. Check out her site, her Juno finger puppets are fabulous. Also great — elloh.


If you're like me and can't get enough of original, hand-made creations, (and you're in the Miineapolis/St. Paul area) check out the third annual Craftstravaganza “rogue art and craft fair”  on April 26th, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Fine Arts building at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Admission is free and the first 100 shoppers willr eceive free swag bags at the doors.

There'll be music, too. The roster of bands has nearly doubled to seven local groups.

Workshops are also being expanded, and the Textile Center and Minnesota Center for Book Arts will offer activities all day long. The show is conveniently scheduled two weeks before Mother's Day, so you can find that perfect handmade gift for the mom in your life... or bring her along!
To find more information about this event, including an illustrated directory of vendors, schedule of workshops, and band performances, visit the Craftstravaganza Web site.