1. How did you start in the handmade community?

My previous work as a mapmaker in a city government had been creative and challenging but cubicle life and male bosses eventually wore me down. By chance I'd seen a camera bag made of waxed canvas and lined with plaid flannel. Entranced with the image and believing that being taught to sew in childhood would translate to the industrial sewing machines needed for canvas, I set off to become a maker. As it turns out, there is a great deal more "to it" than that but I'm really glad for the means to claim a position in the tribe of hand-makers. Living rural, as I do, having that community is crucial.

2. What or who Inspires you?

My husband John, a blacksmith operating as Black Bear Forge, did all the hard work of learning how to start a maker business and operate it in the age of the Internet. I copy him! For design inspiration I look to the fabric outdoor gear of the past - things that were made by sailors, carried by the people who first made hiking a recognized activity, taken to the Gold rush, or churned out for the armed services by factories full of women during World War II. In my family such items were familiar, even everyday and I guess I am imprinted on them.

3. What makes your work unique and truly your own?

Any uniqueness I might claim would be based on my design aesthetic, my willingness to search out top-quality materials that fit that aesthetic, and the ways that I combine those factors.

4. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

I plan to bring to Jackalope a number of variations on my ditty bag design, plus tool rolls and aprons for the hand woodworkers who are so much a part of my tribe, and some items with a DeHavilland Beaver floatplane print theme for pilots both real and wannabe (like me). There will be nothing frilly or whimsical, just practical and handsome gear.

Find our more on Camp Robber at: https://camp-robber.com/

1. What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 

Since I hand make all my bags myself, no two bags are exactly alike...they each take on a personality of their own.  That's whats so cool about handmade and not factory made...nothing is sterile.  Also, I really like to add fun little details into my work, like color-blocking, really fun patterned lining fabrics to the inside, and even some bags have hand braided straps.  I think the graphic and geometric details of most of my bags make my brand distinguishable.

2. When do you feel the most creative?

When I'm out exploring LA. I've been here a little over 3 years now and I feel there is always somewhere new to go and to see.  DTLA's arts district has the coolest murals, just walking around there inspires me.  Also, being around other creatives, which is basically anywhere and everywhere throughout LA.  

3. What is your creative process like?

Usually I'll do a quick rough sketch of what I want to make, then I start making the pattern from there.  After I make the paper pattern I cut all my leather and lining fabric and start sewing.  Each bag takes a fair amount of time to cut and sew....on average a good solid 8 hours total (sans breaks), so I break up the process over the course of a few days.

4. What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?

Being prolific is key.  Just keep creating and it will take you where you need to be.

5. Any special item you'll be releasing or sale you'll be doing at the fair that we should tell people about?

15% off everything for Jackalope Craft Fair! 

6. Where can we learn more about you?  

Check out my about page @ www.BrittanyMatyas.com

1.  What made you come up with the concept for Waffling Around?

We were traveling in Europe and our kids loved the waffle on a stick, we toyed around with it for a year or so and realized it wasn't really known on the westcoast and decided to give it a try, while also adding some other uncommon waffle creations, luckily for us it has been a success. 

2. Do you have a favorite flavor/combination?

One of my favorites is coconut baked into the waffle dipped in chocolate!! The sweetness of the coconut in the waffle makes it such a treat and the chocolate on top of that... Like a Mounds bar in pastry form. 

3.  What do you like most about doing art & craft fairs?

Arts and crafts fair usually go hand in hand with foodies who really appreciate the concept of our waffle, we also enjoy all the different people that the fairs attract and the unique vendors we get to meet and sometimes team up with in the future. 

4. What are you looking forward to in doing Jackalope?

 Looking forward to making new relationships and experiencing the culture of Jackalope and its following. 

With holiday season prep underway, and shows upon shows all just around the corner, we thought it would be a great time to share some tips on how to make the best at any event.

And who better to hear tips from than artisans who have been in your shoes?  Our Jackalope community has a wide array of knowledge and show experience to be shared.  Here are some of the top tips for show day:

1) "Great advice given to me: "Sitters don't sell" I keep a high stool in my booth so I can get off my feet if there's a slow moment, but makes it easy to get up and talk to people." - Wendy Osmundson: Granola Mama's Handmade

The Vintage Grooming Company @ The Jackalope Denver Summer 2016 Fair

2) "Really think about your display! Customers will be drawn into your booth when they can visualize how your product will look in their home. People will notice all of the hard work you put into your product!" - Laura Rodriguez, Beyond and Back Vintage

The Happy Pantry @ Jackalope Pasadena Fall 2015 Fair

3) "Make sure to bring proper weights - there are great DIY videos on YouTube to make your own. Just the right gust or monsoon can be devastating but with weights... Sooo much less so. 😃 " - Heather DeSimone, Leetie Lovendale

Tumeric and Old Lace Healing Essentials @ Jackalope Denver Summer 2016

4) "Smile big and welcome everyone the same way. Don't prequalify your customers. You never know which ones will buy and how much they will spend." - Jennifer Enck, Drinks and Crafts

5) "Bring your craft or something to work on during the show. Customers love to see the work that goes into the products they're shopping for. And you'd be surprised at how many people ask if you make the product!" - Ashley Rutstein, Apparently Ashley

6) "Do a practice set up of your booth ahead of the show. Makes the best use of your space, and saves so much time at setup." 
- Amy Godinez, SnickyB Handmade

7) "1. Do not eat at your booth, it looks unprofessional and people don't want to interrupt your meal so they keep walking. 2. No cell phones, again it's unprofessional and people feel you are too busy to engage with them. You aren't present when on your phone. 3. Don't sit, if you can, stay standing and available during the event. Be ready to engage with a vibe of positivity. 4. If applicable, have dog treats in your booth. We met so many cute furry friends and dog treats were very appreciated by owners and a great way to start a conversation. 5. Price your goods. People really liked our little price tags and table signs. Easy to read information is key" - Jamie Lynn, PrinEle Designs

8) "If you have the option, create a walk-up display vs a walk-in display. For example, vendors who use a table to showcase their products, like a single 6 or 8 foot table, move that table to the front of the booth and stand behind it. People are more likely to stop and browse the items on the table at the front of a booth than they are to walk in to a tent. There's a level of commitment in entering a canopy that not everyone is prepared to make, but taking a look at a table as one walks past or approaches, that's low pressure on the customer."  - Mark Brunner, HumanTreeRobot

Lutume @ Jackalope Pasadena Fall 2015 Fair

9) "It can really be worth it to leave your stuff out, and not start packing up until the show is officially over. Some of my biggest sales have happened at the last minute." - Jennifer Wedgle, WillowSwitch Designs

Laura Ann's Jams @ Jackalope Pasadena Fall 2015

10) "Keep energy high! Remember good healthy snacks & water. It will keep your mind clear and a smile on your face. A beautiful booth wont help if you are crabby or sluggish.

Also, CARDS. I can't tell you how many booths I go to that dont have biz cards. You might not close a sale that day but with your card and a good memory of you, they may order online or pass it onto a friend later!" - Laura Ann Masura, Laura Ann's Jams

11) "I have a checklist of essentials that I keep and print it off before each show. It has saved my butt many times. I also keep an "emergency" backpack full of supplies - from paper clips to pens to a hammer and screwdriver." - Cari Ann: Wuve

12) "Utilize vertical space.  Using varying heights is more interesting to the eye and makes it easier to scan your products.  Also try raising your tables up by placing them on bed risers.  This makes it so customers don't have to lean over uncomfortably to shop." - Carmen McNiel Voelpel: Jewelry by McV

13)  "I found it really helpful to have pieces at a lot of different price points.  Sometimes there will be a customer who really likes your work but doesn't have a huge budget.  Likewise, if you have all lower priced items, you're going to have to sell so much more to profit." - Laura Jones Martinez: Line & Dot by Laura Jones Martinez

14) "Be thoughtful of your shoppers and offer small or medium paper bags with handles for their purchases from your booth. Put your name and logo on the bag and it's free advertising as well!" - Rondo Mieczkowski: Coldwater Canyon Provisions

15) "Be kind and courteous to your fellow artists attending the show with you and the organizers, everyone is there at the same place for the same reason, to share our passion with the world!  When you remember that, everything runs smoothly and you will have a good show!" - Jenilyn Bailard: The Painted Ladies

Bunky Boutique is a neighborhood shop that has been a central Phoenix staple since 2007. Rachel Malloy is the owner and buyer, she specializes in blending well known lines along with local and indie designers and artisans.  Bunky has it's own in-house line, Arizona Love, which are hip and stylish Arizona pride products that are perfect for locals and visitors alike. 

Rachel loves traveling to the ocean and to brooklyn with her husband, exploring new coffee shops, exercising, spending time with her two kitties, and reading (Bunky even has it's very own book club!).

Being on the Jackalope Art Fair jury is a honor and so much for for Rachel because it allows her to have a first hand seat to the innovation and creativity of artisans and designers that are putting their art into the world. That vulnerability is beautiful and inspiring. 

Learn more about Bunky Boutique at www.bunkyboutique.com

The deadline for applications to the Jackalope Art Phoenix Holiday show on November 26th & 27th, juried by our start studded panel featuring Lindsay Viker & Rachel Malloy, is just next Friday, September 2nd.  www.jackalopeartfair.com/phoenix/

This exciting event taking place at WestWorld of Scottsdale will be an alternative to the chaos of Black Friday and provide an oportunity to #ShopSmall with over 150 artisans, live music, workshops and more!  

Ever since she was a little girl, Lindsay Viker has had a passion for all things beautiful. She has translated that passion into sharing about her favorite emerging fashion, beauty, and culture on CoutureintheSuburbs.com. With her team of dedicated writers, Lindsay highlights the best people and businesses in Phoenix, Arizona and other cities around the United States. 

What Lindsay loves most about being part of the Jackalope Arts & Craft Fair Jury is getting to meet new inspirational creators. Now, Couture in the Suburbs has launched a shopping platform where they are sharing their favorite, hand-selected products with their audience. Lindsay is excited to find awesome new vendors to participate in Jackalope's upcoming show and feature on Couture in the Suburbs. 

Q: Tell us a little about yourself & your background in the arts & crafts world:  

Flower Pepper Gallery has been in business for four and a half years. We exhibit contemporary art from local and international artists. We host monthly exhibitions. We also have a boutique area inside the gallery that features books on art & design, and art products for everyday use. Flower Pepper Gallery is located in the Old Pasadena district in the city of Pasadena. Pasadena is an exciting place to be for the arts. There is always something new to see, savor, and experience which naturally results in a wildly creative atmosphere. We hope to continue to be a platform for contemporary art in Pasadena for many more years to come.

Q: What / who is your biggest inspiration?

I’m always inspired by the artists we show here at Flower Pepper Gallery.

Q; How did you get into your position in the arts & crafts world?

I had the opportunity to start an art gallery four and a half years ago, and I jumped at it immediately.

Q: Tell us about a few favorites of yours: 

The LACMA
People who work for a good cause such as people who rescue and help animals etc.

Q: What do you love most about the handmade movement?

With the constant rise of digitalization and mass production of consumer products, it is refreshing to see pieces being made by hand with care and uniqueness.

Q: What is the most important feature in an artist's application for you?

Individuality is an important feature when reviewing an artists’ application.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the Jackalope Arts jury?

The opportunity to discover more talented artisans.

 Q: Where can we find out more about you?

www.flower-pepper.com

How did you start in the handmade community?

While living in Tulsa, I had been doing a lot ofart shows, displaying my paintings and photographs at galleries, and other venues. There was an art festival that happened every year that focused on local artists and handmade. People kept encouraging me to do it, so I gave it a go, and loved it! 

What or who inspires you?

Oh man, with the internet at our fingertips, inspiration is ENDLESS...but I've always been heavily influenced and inspired by the works of Warhol, Lichtenstein, Banksy, and Shepard Fairey, as well as Ralph Steadman. Music and nature also provide great sources of inspiration for me. 

What makes your work unique and truly your own?

I love taking familiar, as well as unfamiliar images and breathing new life into it, giving it a fresh look, and a spontaneous dynamic... I think I'm able to capture a subject's soul through color, composition and texture in a way that sets my work apart from others.

What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair?

You can expect prints and originals, smaller items like postcards, and buttons. And I'll be launching a new product, my "art you wear" necklaces! 

Shop Point Blank Art & Design at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on August 12th & 13th at Anderson Park, Wheat Ridge CO

Fore more, visit: 

http://www.pointblankdesign.net

http://www.facebook.com/pointblankdesign

http://www.etsy.com/shop/pointblankdesign

1. What is Teller Street Gallery? Teller Street is an art studio in Wheat Ridge featuring classes for kids and adults. The studio is locally owned and operated by Mandy Fulton and Nicole Anderson. The walls are crammed with awesome artwork by local artists. We also have 10 private studios for artists to rent on a monthly basis, which have been occupied for years by most of the same artists.

2. What activities will you be offering fair patrons during the festival? Teller Street will offer free art activities for kids during the Carnation Festival. Including take home pinwheels! We will be onsite from 4pm-7pm on Friday and 12pm-6pm on Saturday,

3. Where can we learn more about you? You can find out more about Teller Street, the classes offered, and featured artists and instructors on our website:  www.TellerStreetGallery.com

4. What do you love most about the handmade movement? We love to see creativity in people, and do our best to help teach, inspire, and promote art locally.

How did you start in the handmade community?

We started in the handmade community at farmers market's. We were making our habanero pepper jelly for friends and family at Christmas.  Everyone loved it and always asked for more so got a certified kitchen and started selling the jelly at events.

What or who inspires you?

I'm inspired by people that are the best in their practice or profession, I love watching, trusting and working with people that are good at what they do.

What makes your work unique and truly your own?

We use the best quality produce, de-seed and de-stem the fresh peppers by hand. We know the farmers we work with. Our products have a modern feel that appeals to our customers that enjoy entertaining and cooking.

What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair? 

Habanero, Strawberry Habanero and Marionberry Habanero Pepper Jellies

Learn more here: 

www.kellysjelly.com

www.facebook.com/kellysjelly

Twitter @kellysjelly