Holidays are here with Holideals for you!  I keep in mind 3 things as the festive season barrels in:

#1)  PURPOSE!  I work as an Elf at this time of year, getting all kinds of holiday gifts ready for my family and friends, and yours, here in the studio.  I've been making and doing for months, creating new art and jewelry, but this is the season where my customers check in often, looking for very personal, particular treasures for loved ones and friends.  I like being part of that thoughtfulness, it is quite a priviledge.   Presents share our gratitude for others in our lives, and how much we appreciate the sense of purpose these relationships bring us.  Giving is all about purpose.

#2)  Prudence!  Holideals abound!  Let's be smart about this: we can give well, without going bankrupt or credit crazy.  Sales are on at my shop, so if you have had your eye on a piece of artwork or jewelry, check now for reduced prices and free shipping!  If you happen to live in or around Portland, Oregon, you can go to Dolly's Fashions on Broadway (near Lloyd Center) to try on jewelry, check out the quality and work out a deal.  If you tell Sofia that you saw the piece online at Artfire, whoooosh! another 10% off the tag price!!  Don't panic, overpurchase, or charge things.  Artfire is full of wonderful earth-friendly crafters and artists to help you find the gift you need at a price that works.  All that and you never have to go out in the cold.

#3)  Principles!  Rethink how gifts are wrapped.  I put extra attention into making original, recycled jewelry packaging as well as the ecosmart jewelry you see listed at Artimentary.  I'll be posting the steps I use for any of you who want to make these unique and sturdy little packages which have a rather architectural shape my customers enjoy.  The materials are easily found at home, cost nothing, and add a tasteful touch to holidays which otherwise can drift into the deadly: homogenous commercialism.  Never!  It's time to package with principles, use and reUse what is at hand and spare both our budgets and the earth further trouble with egregious waste.  

So join me in giving simple, well-designed handmade items crafted in a generous spirit.  Save up a couple of empty toilet paper tubes, magazines and scotch tape.  I'll post the steps for my eco-packing in December!