April Is Earth Month! Let's Celebrate!

Happy Earth Month, Crafty Readers! 

I have to be honest with you though, there is many a day where I sit in front of this space and scratch my head not knowing what to write.  I know, I should an editorial calendar, but I've been slacking (and I admit it) and therefore don't.  For me, the basics are simple- feature helpful environmental, crafty, artisanal, and accessible tips, projects, artists, products for those looking to make an impact whether large or small in their own art, craft and/or business world. At least that is my mission; I hope you find it agreeable and that you've been inspired thus far.

Around the Corner: Craft Night at Etsy Labs

Looking for a good, crafty time?  Craft Night at Etsy Labs is where it's at!  Located within Etsy Headquarters in Brooklyn, NY, you will find a wonderful, creative space dedicated to weekly craft workshops and open craft nights where you can even work on your own project.

Photos courtesy of Etsy Labs

Yummy materials, books, and tools are available for your use -- I dunno about you, but I seriously salivate at the sight of buttons, glue guns, scissors, and just about anything art & craft related.

Previous Craft Nights have included projects such as Glass Ornament Painting, Stenciling Postcards, Stitching Pet Portraits, Etching Jewelry, and even making homemade jam.

Photo Courtesy of KimmChi

So come join the fun!  And since the Etsy Labs is a favorite hangout spot for the {NewNew}, maybe  we'll see you there!

Who: You!

*Not in the NYC tri-state area?  Join the party online at the Etsy Virtual Labs

What: Craft Night at the Etsy Labs

When: Mondays from 4 -8 pm

*Always double check the Craft Night Schedule first (some holidays it is closed)

Where: 55 Washington Street, Suite 712, Brooklyn, NY

Cost: Free!

Craft on,

Virginia

Virginia Kraljevic

Knitta Project: A work in progress

On a summer-like day in April, I headed to open craft night at the Etsy Labs. I came with a project in mind: a parking meter cozy. That's right. Even parking meters need love as they collect your quarters. The meter sleeve is one of 69 for the the Knitta Please project commissioned by the Montague Street Business Improvement District. For more info read Knitting for the Streets.

I'm an occasional knitter with more projects started than completed. With an impending deadline for the project installation and a strong desire to participate, I decided to see this through. Craft night would be the perfect opportunity to get things started.

On my list of things to bring were needles and yarn. Although initially missing in action, I managed to find the biggest needles I own, size 17. The yarn would come from a scarf, the first knitting project I ever completed. I spent my time on the train unraveling 2 skeins worth of yarn. Shortly after arriving at the Labs, my project was underway.

Scarf yet to be unraveled

Unraveled yarn from scarf yields 2 skeins

Several {NewNew} members are participating in the project, including KnitKnit and Kimmchi. They were both in attendance on Monday, making for a lively craft night. KnitKnit graciously provided some scrumptious chocolate pear bread. YUM! Most of the knitters participating are from the New York area. However, word has arrived that member May Luk has secured 4 sleeves all the way from from San Franciso.

Since craft night, I've been knitting on the train. Bigs needles require ample elbow room. So I have to be careful not to elbow someone or take an eye out with my needles. I'm more than halfway done and look forward to submitting it. Stay tuned for an update on the installation on Montague Street.

Knitting Stash on the train

- Red Bridge Studio