Craft:

One of the exciting things about being involved with Craft and Make is getting to go to all the fun events. Meeting artists, crafters and makers in their own community is the very best part. Currently the team here is involved in some "Mini-Maker Faires." It was at the first Mini Maker Faire that I met Isla Corbett. She will be at the Renegade Craft Fair this weekend, selling her handmade products.

Isla (eye-la), is a very talented fiber arts designer, who works in my favorite media: 100% wool felt. Isla couldn't be a more lovely person. She is creative, seems grounded, and her personal style is very much a mirror of her art. Everything about her was very crisp and modern, but also warm. To be more clear: she was sweet, sincere and engaging.

Her art and crafts are just beautiful. The work she does falls into three categories: accessories, purses and cases, and pillows. Her hair accessories are all hand needle felted, and they are classic barrettes with felted flowers. The colors and forms are fuzzy, yet they don't look unfinished. Her technique allows for the clear shape of the flower to dominate, but the texture of the wool isn't overworked.

Her bags carry over the natural motif of plants and flowers. They are very streamlined, curvilinear, and the wool they are constructed from has a smooth texture. Isla incorporates needle felted details that make each design pop. Her pillows are also made with 100% wool felt, but she distinguishes them from the bags and barrettes with leaves and blossom details that are minimalist in style.

Isla's crafty business is just beginning to take off. I like that she has all the bases covered- her accessories are in local fiber shops, her work is featured on a very pretty website, she has a solid Etsy, and will be at the Renegade. And additionally, her prices are just right- the hair pieces go for less than $10 and you can get a great purse for about $40. It's a very well rounded business plan and I just know she will find success. All of it rests on a foundation of the quality of her work, and the authentic kindness you feel when you meet her. Please visit her, and all the other talented and motivated crafters if you are in San Francisco this weekend!