Carolina Crafting

I’ve spent a lot of time lately thinking about all the things I have to be thankful for. There are so many: my kids and grandkids, my wonderful friends, my brother and his family, having a webcast, opening my little shop, the list could go on and on. None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for a sweet soul from Denmark.  He believes in me and helps me do whatever wild dream I come up with. (and there have been many) This year he has to sit at a craft show on his birthday.  You have no idea how hard it is for him to sit still all day and not be bored to tears. But his birthday ????  All I can say is “thank you” and tell you I am so thankful for you.”

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Just Jackie

Christmas shopping begins in earnest on Friday. I’m sure all of you have lists and sale ads in hand…..but stop for a second. Do you really want to go to the mall and buy something everyone else is buying or would you rather give something unique and personal???? I know the answer for me. I want to give something special. There are MANY craft shows this weekend and in the next couple of weeks. There are craft consignment stores and church bazaars. This is where you need to shop. This year, more than ever, it’s time to shop local. I live in an area where there are very few shopping choices. (I live 2 hours from any major city) I learned early that the best places to shop were in the stores that are locally owned.

This weekend I will be in Franklin, NC for Mistletoe Magic. It’s right on 441 across from the Whistlestop Mall. If you come by, please stop and chat. I love when I meet people who watch my web casts. My little shop in Brasstown will be closed this weekend but next weekend (Dec. 6-7) Please come by. All the shops in Brasstown Village are having an open house. There will cookies, hot cocoa and other surprises.

I promise to post more often. Ron (the camera guy) was in town last week and we taped more shows for you all to enjoy. I’ve got great stories to tell.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Just Jackie

Since I’ve moved to North Carolina I have met some wonderful folks. I know I go on about how wonderful all the crafters are….but it’s true.

I’d like to mention two of them today. First, check out www.blindpigandtheacorn.com for a great salute to Veteran’s Day. Some of the men she saluted are names we hear everyday around here but never knew they had served in the military. (well, at least people new to the area didn’t)  Thanks, guys !!!!

Second, Dana for www.oldredbarnco.com is having a quilt give away. They are so cool. Check put her web site for a chance to win one of them. Good luck!!!

Today has been really gray and all of the bright colorful leaves are gone. I guess I will have to admit that Winter is coming.  Bring on the snow !!!!

One really cool thing about our new house is that there is a family of deer that cross over the yard every morning and then again in the evening. I wonder where they go????? Do the go to visit other deer families??? My husband wants to name them.

Just Jackie

Our latest video is about the Italian art of Intarsia. Intarsia is a form of wood inlay.  It provides a three dimensional, mosaic-like piece of art. It is thought that the word ‘Intarsia’ is derived from the Latin word ‘interserere’ which means ‘to insert’ and that it was originally developed in Siena, Italy in the 13th century. Intarsia is created by selecting different types of wood, using its natural grain patterns and colors (rather than dyes and stains) to create the different colors in the pattern.  Each piece of wood is then individually cut, shaped, and sanded before fitting them together like a jig-saw puzzle and gluing them to a piece of backing cut to the shape of the final product. Watch Rebecca Duffy demonstrate this ancient art form.

We will be taking a little break from posting shows while we tape some more crafters over the next couple of weeks and celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday. Out next show will be online December 8th.