The Story Behind My Crafty Corner

 Hello, I’m Abbey and welcome to My Crafty Corner!

I believe creativity has the power to bring joy, beauty, and connection into our lives—and I've been discovering that truth for as long as I can remember. Creativity has never been just a hobby for me—it's been a way of life. Over the years, I've discovered that every craft teaches something new, and there's always another technique, material, or project waiting to be explored.

My creative journey has changed through the seasons of my life. Years ago, embroidery was one of my favorite ways to express myself, especially embroidering bib overalls. It was so much fun. For a few wonderful years I co-owned a leather shop called Me and My Gang, where we designed and handcrafted purses, belts, fanny packs, and vests. Later, I spent countless happy hours knitting scarves and hats for friends and family, and sweaters and vests for my grand-children. Seeing something made with love become a treasured gift is one of the greatest joys of being a maker.

These days, my heart belongs to painting and collage. I started painting in my 30s, first with oils, then watercolor and now acrylics. I love experimenting with color and texture, and I'm continually inspired by the beauty of the natural world. I’ve painted a lot of landscapes over the
years and in the last few years have tried my hand at multi-media collage, which has become another favorite form of expression. I love how it allows me to let go of ideas and just create, or I can explore ideas around spirituality, friendship, the environment, and the many experiences that shape our lives.

I live in Vermont and I love to garden. It’s exciting when the snow finally melts and spring seems just around the corner. The best is the myriad colors of green that explode everywhere, while new leaves sprout and early crocus pop their smiling faces to the sun. I grow vegetables, but flowers have a special place in my heart. My garden is filled with blooms. Every spring I wait with anticipation to see which perennials have returned, which didn't survive the winter, and where I can tuck in something new. It takes time to develop gardens, and the results are so rewarding. Flowers have a wonderful way of bringing beauty, joy, and inspiration into everyday life.

One of the most meaningful chapters of my life was spending eighteen years living in South India. During that time, I developed a deep appreciation for handmade artistry. I was amazed by the Kolams (Rangoli) woman drew so skillfully outside their doorways each morning using powdered chalk. India is full of bright colors from textiles to lorries painted with colorful designs. The music and art traditions are rich with history, and the incredible skill of ancient and modern stone carvers is mind boggling. That experience continues to influence how I see creativity and reminds me that handmade objects connect us across cultures and generations.

In my fifties, I trekked in the Himalayas, painted wildflowers, and throughout my life I've sought out wild places. Those experiences continue to shape how I see the world and inspire my creativity. Nature has always been one of my greatest teachers. I often discover creative inspiration simply by paying attention to the beauty around me.

I created My Crafty Corner because I wanted more than an online store—I wanted to build a welcoming place where creative people could discover new supplies, learn new skills, and feel inspired to make something with their own hands. Whether you're just beginning your creative journey or you've been making things for years, I hope you'll find ideas, products, and encouragement here.

I carefully select the products I offer with fellow makers in mind, and what you might need to make your creative ideas come to life. What You’ll Find at My Crafty Corner are a variety of art supplies, supplies for resin art, jewelry making, needle felting, embroidery, scrapbooking, kids crafts, candle making, DIY projects and kits. I have included the elements needed to help you with your creative endeavor. If you're looking for something you don't see, I'd love to hear from you. My Crafty Corner is always growing, just like every creative journey.

Through my blog I hope to share tutorials, tips, creative inspiration, and new discoveries. I believe creativity doesn't require perfection, and that’s really important to remember, especially for new makers—creativity simply begins with curiosity and the willingness to try something new and let yourself find your own style and your own way of expression.

Thank you for visiting My Crafty Corner and supporting my small business. After a lifetime of making things, I wanted to create a place where others could discover the same joy that creativity has brought into my own life. I hope it becomes a place you enjoy returning to whenever you're looking for inspiration, creative supplies, or your next project.

Happy creating!
Abbey
Founder, My Crafty Corner