The Crafter's Box Podcast

Create embroidery art on a larger scale as we craft modern customizable felt pennants. Lauren Holton, the fiber artist behind Lark Rising Studios, shows us how to layer geometric botanical shapes with high-quality wool felt and attach them to cotton twill using two simple embroidery stitches.   Lauren’s thoughtfully curated kit contains everything needed to create three custom felt pennants. The luscious felt is a Merino wool blend with a soft feel and incredible color retention. Durable and pliable, the felt is Made in the USA and ideal for this project. To correspond with the rich hues of the felt, there are thirteen matching embroidery threads along with size 5 embroidery needles. To play with felt shapes, color, and layers, Lauren has included traceable templates that can be modified and customized.

Create handmade resin floral coasters and trays that are both elegant and functional. Join Christie Lothrop, the artist and green thumb behind MadPotters, as she shares her honed techniques for mixing and pouring epoxy resin into silicone molds while creating depth with layers of botanicals. To further customize your projects, Christie shows us how to add metallic flakes, alcohol inks, and mica powder into the mold. The kit includes everything needed to make personalized circular coasters, square coasters, and an oval tray—plus safety supplies to protect both you and your workspace. Christie has also included several additional decorative elements to make the dried botanicals pop. Adding metallic flakes brings sparkle to the project, mica powder creates a translucent or milky shimmer, and alcohol inks combine to make a marbled appearance. The heat gun will help to create a clear result in our cured resin. The possibilities for these resin projects are endless. Besides botanicals, try adding photos or trinkets

Unwind with circular weaving as we create stunning wall hangings and explore the techniques and materials to find our individual creative passion. In this workshop, Jacqueline Do, creator of Along the Loom woven wall art and Social Media Manager for The Crafter’s Box, shares her love of the craft as she demonstrates the fundamentals of warping a circular frame along with several techniques for creating texture using merino wool roving. Learn more: https://thecraftersbox.com/jacqueline-do-circular-weaving-with-wool-roving/

Discover how gratifying hand sewing can be as we slow things down and explore two very special quilting workshops. Amanda Carye, the designer and writer behind Broadcloth Studio, shares her passion for this meditative craft as she walks us through each step of the quilt making process. With 25 years of quilting experience, Amanda surprisingly didn’t own a sewing machine until about four years ago. “The lack of a sewing machine was quite an education!” she says. “Working at a slower speed and spending time with each piece drove home the mechanics of patchwork and would be my personal recommendation to anyone just taking up sewing.”   In these workshops, Amanda walks us through every aspect of quilting. Amanda’s curated kits include everything needed to quilt in your favorite Robert Kaufman Kona Cotton colorway. Years of experience and testing have informed her materials selection so that students can continue to make well into the future. She’s chosen the best tools to elevate our sewing, making the process en

For all knitters, from beginner to advanced, it’s time to embrace slow living through our craft as we create a cozy beanie and mitt set with luxurious custom eco-friendly yarn. In this workshop, Jewell Washington, the entrepreneurial designer of Northknits, walks us through a set of weekend projects as she shares her tips for joyful knitting.  With three balls of our Lusso cashmere blend yarn, bamboo circular needles, locking stitch markers, tape measure, and tapestry needle, each kit contains everything needed to knit a matching beanie and mitt set in the color of your choice.  Learn more: https://thecraftersbox.com/jewell-washington-cashmere-knit-beanie-and-mittens/

Use the warmth of your own hands to roll elegant beeswax candles. This cozy craft doesn’t involve any melting or hot wax, making it a quick and family-friendly activity. Liz Wagner is the Creative Director of The Crafter’s Box, and her love and expertise of the craft shines through as she shares a wide range of candle shapes, sizes, and embellishments to make with our kit.  In this workshop, Liz teaches us how to handle the beeswax sheets, make our cuts, and pick the best wick size for each candle. The possibilities are seemingly endless as we learn to make tapered, fluted, pillar, beehive, and decorative floating candles. By combining different colors and playing with cut shapes, we can further customize our designs. “Beeswax is one of my favorite materials to interact with, on a sensory level and on a creative level,” says Liz. Since the Middle Ages when it was introduced, beeswax has been a preferred choice for candles. This natural byproduct of honey production has a bright and warm burn with a pleasant s

Stitching is a meditative, slow craft tradition that embraces the thoughtful work of our hands as we turn textiles into art. Pour a cup of tea, settle into a cozy chair, and join us for a deeper look at the rhythmic stitching of appliqué with expert sewist Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin and The School of Making. Founded as a preservation of the living art of textile making, The School of Making considers quality, sustainability, and location for each and every material they source—their focus is on the intersection of fashion, craft, and DIY. Natalie shares, “I’ve come to believe that craft, making, and creative endeavors toward producing sustainable products will create an enduring future for our community.”  The heart of this workshop is found in the art of stitching. In this workshop, we’ll explore specialized reverse appliqué and negative reverse appliqué techniques by starting first with essential sewing concepts in preparing our thread, keeping our stitches neat and structured, and building a strong s

In this special episode of The Crafter's Box Podcast, we sit down with the talented Lindsey Campbell of Hello Hydrangea to discuss three incredible workshops Lindsey has prepared with us for release. Frame Weaving, released in October 2021, Strohsterne, released in November 2021 and Premium Tablet Weaving, to be released in mid-November 2021 are each unique and intricate techniques that will expand a maker's library of skills.  Frame Weaving is one of the oldest artisan techniques in the world, dating back to ancient times. In her workshop, Lindsey guides us through a specialized technique that weaves yarn in floating patterns on a fixed frame. The wooden frame provides structure to weaving elements that would otherwise not be able to stand on their own, creating an intricate and colorful décor piece that’s ready to hang in your home.  Strohsterne is the art of creating straw stars using natural wheat stalks and cotton thread. In her workshop, Lindsey teaches us how to make six different star patterns in vary

Explore the art of custom soy candle making. This workshop immerses students in the cozy craft of personalized scent blending and candle pouring as you learn the technique essentials with husband-and-wife team, Melissa and Chad Burgess. They share their expertise and passion in their workshop, teaching us how to choose the best pairings of materials and scents to make exquisite and aromatic poured soy candles.  We begin with an overview of fragrance, learning how to identify top, middle, and bottom notes. Chad and Melissa walk us through each step of candle making, from choosing your vessel and wick size, to preparing and pouring your wax, all the way through to completing and curing your candle. For those interested in fragrance blending, they share tips on getting started and exploring your preferred scent combinations. Not only will we learn the step-by-step process of creating candles by making them together, Melissa and Chad also set you up for future success by examining the intricacies of fragrances, w

In this premium workshop we are exploring the art of wood carving, handcrafting artisan serveware that will become staples in our kitchen and home. Motoko Smith, of Leo in the Woods, inspires, educates and shares with us her thoughtful practice in design and woodworking. Following her techniques, we’ll create a knife, coffee scoop, large spatula, and kuksa out of a rich cherry wood. This rewarding and immersive workshop allows us to take a wooden blank and, with time and diligence in our craft, create custom home goods that we will enjoy for a lifetime.  Along with learning the fundamentals of woodworking and wood carving techniques, Motoko shares her expert tips derived from years of experience and countless hours of work. By the end of this workshop, Motoko will leave us feeling confident in our new skills, ready to experiment with future wood carving projects on our own.  Learn more: https://thecraftersbox.com/2021-08-pw-featured-maker

Using handmade objects in the home can bring joy to mundane activities and a handcrafted broom is no exception. Sweeping suddenly becomes enjoyable and lifts the spirit. In her workshop, Alyssa guides us through the art of broom making to craft a Naked Turkey Wing Hand Whisk. Despite it’s quirky name, this broom is an elegant addition to the home that’s beautiful enough to put on display and practical for everyday use.  The workshop begins by exploring the materials for this craft including broomcorn and cording, a dowel to use as a foot brake, and a few household tools you’ll want to gather ahead of time to set up your workspace. Alyssa guides us through a few preliminary design decisions that affect the style and shape of our brooms and how they’ll look once they’re hanging on the wall.  Working with natural shapes, textures, and colors is a soothing and restorative process. Join us as we learn to embrace this century’s old art form while adding our own modern twist to the design. Learn more: https://thecra

Fabric weaving is a textile technique using strips of fabric to create unique woven patterns. In this workshop, under Mister Domestic’s expert guidance, we’re exploring three different custom fabric weaving patterns to build a beautiful raw linen lumbar pillow for the home. In this workshop, Mathew shares an overview of building a raw edge linen two-axis weave. Once your skills are mastered, explore two additional intermediate weaving patterns for wall hangings, placemats, table runners, quilts and pillows. You can use different axes to create interest and dimension in every unique textile piece and explore your very own patterns as you get the hang of weaving with pins on a table top. We invite you to add additional fabric bundles for more making, each bundle includes enough fabric for multiple pillows or even a lap quilt. This workshop presents a totally unique take on weaving as we're working 'off the loom' and embracing textiles over fiber. Join us for an immersive workshop in a brand new offering that w

Welcome to our premium workshop exploring the art of modern cake design, construction and decorating, including learning how to handcraft delicate wafer paper florals. Confectionary artisan Stevi Auble shares with us inspiring, encouraging and thoughtful instruction on everything you need to know to create awe-inspiring edible wafer paper florals in her signature techniques, plus modern cake designs, from the foundational skills of creating a sturdy (and delicious) base, to the how-to of successful stacking and finishing techniques. Your edible wafer paper floral bouquet includes instructions, materials and specialized tools to handcraft—in stunning detail—ranunculus, peonies, cosmos, garden roses, anemones and accompanying leaf embellishments. You have enough of everything to make five of each flower, giving you flexibility to practice and perfect your craft. In addition, Stevi leads us through the process of building a tiered Romantic buttercream cake design from scratch—learn tips for baking, stacking and

In this workshop, we tap into the most creative and colorful versions of ourselves as we explore how to paint the sky in Stefanie Bales’ signature style. We’ve thoughtfully collaborated with Stefanie of Stefanie Bales Fine Art to bring you expert-led instruction paired with inspiring and empowering creative freedom so you can uncover what’s in your own sky. Stefanie walks us through all the steps to create a light-filled acrylic seascape and sky painting. You’ll be introduced to Stefanie’s favorite tools and materials for making, and you’ll explore all of the artistic benefits of working with her curated color palette. Stefanie also allows us to discuss and dive into various brush techniques and tips for organic mark making, as well as thoughtful instruction on working through the process of building out color layers. In the end, you’ll have a rich understanding of new painting techniques and a stunning canvas featuring a one-of-kind rendition of a light and cloud filled sky in beautiful pastels. Learn more:

In this workshop, we explore the art of painting with style and vibrancy on a custom leather clutch. We’ve collaborated with artist Kel Cadet-Lyons of R-KI-TEKT in a craft honoring culture, art and design. Together, we’ve hand-selected a variety of paint brushes and bright, playful hues to create a harmonious dance of colors and patterns. Kel walks you through her step-by-step tutorial while sharing her personal color theory, simultaneously exploring surface treatments and patterns in using an oil-based marker to add contrast and details. Kel encourages you to unearth your power in creativity, drawing inspiration from things in your life that bring you happiness as you test and hone skills using your new collection of tools and materials. Continue your exploration by utilizing found objects in your home as your next painting tool, or by using leftover paints to breathe new life into a favorite leather piece. Ultimately, Kel hopes to help you release any intimidation surrounding customization of this style and

In her Leather Sandal Making workshop, Rachel Corry of Rachel Sees Snail Shoes will teach us every aspect of the sandal making process. Though the thought of handcrafting your own sandals may feel a bit intimidating at first, Rachel breaks the process into clear, simple and straightforward steps, empowering us to create footwear worth flaunting. In your workshop, Rachel teaches a simple slide style of sandal with an optional slingback.  It’s simple to make any other style of sandal, even one of your own invention, with Rachel’s guidance.  We’ll first go over tools and materials and then get right into checking patterns against our own feet. No matter the sandal design, the making process is the same: patterns, cutting, draping, slots, taping, scratching, gluing, and sanding. Your hard work will pay off, and you will be ecstatic to go out and share your new shoes with the world. Learn more: https://thecraftersbox.com/2021-q2-premium-featured-maker-sandals/

Welcome to our Cross Stitch Workshop with Zoe Frost of Junebug & Darlin. This Cross Stitch Workshop is an excellent creative practice for novice and expert makers alike. Cross-stitching is achieved through using a grid. By working in a pre-gridded fabric, there’s no guessing as to where to put your stitches or what type of stitch will work best. Cross-stitching is a great methodical craft. Zoe Frost of Junebug & Darlin will walk you through each of the curated supplies in your kit. You’ll learn how to read a counted cross stitch pattern, and from there, stitch your way through her speciality design, created just for our community of makers. You’ll also explore technique and skills in how to back your embroidery hoop for a professional finish.  Learn more: https://thecraftersbox.com/2021-05-featured-maker/

In this workshop we explore the art of handcrafted paper. Join us as we work side-by-side with Rae Samuels to pour, mold, press and dry - follow along with Rae's recipes or customize as you craft. Paper becomes stationery for a letter to a friend, a journaling entry or a backdrop to photo memories. Paper transforms when it becomes a thoughtful gift tag, wrapping paper, a seating card, a menu or an invitation to commemorate an experience.  We use paper to forge connections with others, celebrate and communicate news and milestones such as births and weddings, and to document and share our own stories throughout time. What a wonderful history! Paper has been used for everything from currency to communication. Paper has historically been crafted using a diverse array of materials from around the globe. This workshop takes us step-by-step through the process of making, starting with creating the pulp all the way through adding custom embellishments, and finally, pre

In this Premium Workshop led by Natalie Gill of Native Poppy, we explore the elegant + wild art of floral design, assembly and styling. This workshop uses seasonally available dried botanicals to create a wreath that won't wilt, but will stand the test of time and can be enjoyed for many months (if not years, with proper storage) to come. This workshop will continue throughout 2021 with new materials releases each season so you can continue creating beautiful wreaths all year long. In our podcast episode with Natalie, she shares about her journey to becoming a professional maker and floral artisan, as well as tips to styling florals and a preview of what you'll learn when you join our workshop experience. Learn more at https://thecraftersbox.com/2021-q1-premium-featured-maker/