Yesterday, I asked you, “What new craft or technique do you want to learn this summer?”

Earlier this week, I learned about TeachStreet from Sara over at girlscantell.

Sara explained the idea behind TeachStreet:

Basically, TeachStreet is all about learning something new, or sharing your skills and talents in your areas of expertise. So far, the site’s been launched in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Denver, recently in NYC, and very, very shortly in Philadelphia and Chicago. In a nutshell, TeachStreet is a really great opportunity for people to expand their businesses a little, offering either one-on-one or small group classes in the areas of craft they work in, or even in related things like small business development or online marketing/social networking for micro-business.

To me, this is just another way the world wide web is helping us better stay in touch with our local communities. I would certainly encourage you to check out the site and consider adding teaching to your craft business. TeachStreet also provides a great way to search for teachers for the things you want to learn.

Speaking of learning new things, you may remember that my new HiP friend, Alex McCarty, is opening an indie boutique in West Reading late this summer. Well, we have worked out an arrangement whereby I’ll be managing her classes and events.

So, I’m looking for artists and crafters who would be interested in teaching classes. I think we’re open to pretty much anything – so think about what you’d be able to teach and drop me an email. We can discuss the details and work out a plan that works for all of us!

I received word from Miss Koco that she would be hosting an upcycled jewelry workshop at Mew Gallery later this month.

I have been eying this pendant since she posted it on the HiP community site. While now it seems so obvious to me, at first I had to ask what it was constructed with: old jeans! I love how chunky and casual the pendant is and how it’s paired with a light silver chain.

If you’re interested in learning to create jewelry like this, you’re in luck! That workshop Miss Koco is hosting is on jean jewelry!

Here’s the scoop!

From Jeans to Jewelry

May 26th from 6pm to 8pm

It seems like everyone has a few pairs of jeans that just don’t fit right… or they have the whole sandblasted butt, low-rise thing you can’t rock anymore…or they’re just so worn they’re un-wearable… What can you do with them? Make them into jewelry! Miss Koco will show you how to give your old denim new life.

$30 per workshop
*includes all materials and light refreshments

Space is limited. Pre-registration is required no later than the Friday before each class: 215-625-2424 or email Mew Gallery.

a message from one of our sponsors

HiP and the PA Guild of Craftsmen have a great relationship! I’m so excited to bring you this announcement of their spring workshops and seminars. You can learn from master craftsmen (and women), improve your business, and meet other artisans.

Have you ever looked into Guild membership? Why not now? The Guild is looking for the next generation of fine craftspeople and have a wide variety of resources to help you achieve the career in arts & crafts that you’ve dreamed of.

I’m also thrilled to note that one of the spring workshops is being taught by…me! Learn the basics of social media marketing from yours truly at the Goggleworks in Reading.

Spring Workshops with the Pennsylvania Guild – by Nick Mohler
Lancaster, Reading, Pottstown

The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen’s slate of workshops in May and June are geared towards craft enthusiasts, emerging artists and established craftsmen. Registration is open to everyone through the Guild’s website at or via phone at 717-431-8706. [Read more →]

Emily from disCARDS wrote me last week to let me know of a fundraiser being held for the organization she works for as a “day job.” POWER – Pennsylvania Organization for Women in Early Recovery – is looking for donations for the raffle at its Night of Promises event. “POWER’s mission is to provide gender-specialized quality treatment & support services to women who are changing their lives through recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs.”

Emily wants to combine her two of her loves: supporting POWER and supporting PA crafters. Please consider donating an item, large or small, for the raffle. Donations will be put into themed baskets & raffled. You can send business cards in addition to your donation – one will be put in the basket, the others will be set out for attendees to pick up! Gift certificates are also welcome!

Donations are due by May 1, 2009 and you can download the donation form here. If you’d like more information, please email Emily.

small pleasures

Look to relax without spending a fortune at the spa? Try one of these Organic Flaxseed Warming Bags from Mary Beth at E-A-Poo’s!

Simply microwave them for 45-60 seconds and apply where it hurts! Use warm, all-natural materials to relax away the day for only $12.75!

special announcement!

I’m so happy to announce that I’ve been asked to present at this PA Guilde of Craftsmen workshop. I’ll be talking about using social media to market your handmade business. Other topics include email marketing, blogging, and web tactics. There are still spots available in the class!

As I’m writing this, it’s beginning to look like a PA Super Bowl could be a distinct possibility! But whether you’re an Eagles fan or a Steelers fan, there are lots of opportunities to learn a new craft or perfect an old one around the state.

My new friends at the Pittsburgh Craft Collective have just announced their newest round of classes. Check out classes for learning to knit, goal-setting for your business, spinning yarn, and bookbinding.

In my hometown of Reading, the Goggleworks has put out their Winter class schedule, as well. The Goggleworks is part of the revitalization of downtown Reading. Housed in an old goggle factory, it is home to studios for fine artists, glass blowers, fiber artists, and many more. The first floor holds a gallery, art theater, gift shop, and cafe. If you’re ever in the area, it is a must see!

In the Lancaster area, check out the PA Guild of Craftsmen’s 2009 workshops. Would you like to learn more about photographing your work? There’s an intriguing class called Photography for Artists.

Are you hosting a class you’d like to promote? Please leave a comment – I’m sure everyone would appreciate the help!

Email UPDATE: It appears that my email (tara AT handmadeinpa DOT net) is now working again. If you’ve tried to email me in the past three days, please resend!

I’m still looking for your suggestions for a Valentine’s Day Gift Guide! Please email me your selections (your own or your favorite PA artisan’s) by Thursday, January 15th.