social enterprise
In India, women continue to face barriers to independence, even as access to education, work, and legal rights has improved. Many still contend with restricted mobility, entrenched gender roles, domestic violence and social stigma. But social enterprises can create real opportunities for dignity, skills and long-term change for women. Zamrudpur
handcrafted
Every stitch, loop and knot holds the time, energy and dedication of the person who created it. When you wear a hand-knit sweater or wrap yourself in a crocheted blanket, you feel the tangible expression of someone’s love. But what happens when the maker passes away before the project
artisan
Editor's Note: This story was first published in Artisan Joy magazine (Issue 4) in 2023. Meet Adella Colvin, the founder of LolaBean Yarn Co., a brand of custom hand-dyed luxury yarns for knitting and crocheting. Born in the Bronx, Adella never imagined becoming a yarn dyer. That part
Melissa Galbraith is the innovative force behind MCreativeJ. With a focus on nature-inspired hand embroidery, Melissa's creative journey was nurtured from a young age, crafting with her mother. As an adult, she rediscovered this passion, shifting from personal projects to educating others through workshops and DIY kits. Read
artist
Monika Gentry is a self-taught fashion illustrator and content creator passionate about health and disability-inclusive art. In her interview, Monika shared details about her career trajectory, social media growth and commitment to showcasing diversity in her work. Despite challenges, Monika's creativity and resilience propelled her passion into a
On a frigid winter week in Naperville, Illinois, passersby discovered downtown statues wrapped in colorful, handmade scarves, each tagged with a handwritten note inviting neighbors to “take if you need and leave if you don’t.” The knits were anonymously placed on sculptures along the city’s Century Walk public
craft for good
In Newport, Rhode Island, a sweet form of protest is taking shape – one that smells of freshly baked cookies and pastries. On Saturday, March 7, the gift shop Matriarch will host an "ICE Cakes Not People" bake sale, with proceeds benefiting immigrant rights organizations. The event is a
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At Artisan Joy, we’re passionate about highlighting makers who channel their creativity to inspire, uplift and keep traditions alive. These stories from across the web showcase how handmade crafts can create meaningful connections and leave a lasting impact. 1. Art Meets Gardening Why we love it: For nearly 50
We’re excited to share a curated selection of features from our friends at Handmade Seller. These stories bring fresh perspectives and practical insights to makers, creatives and purpose-driven entrepreneurs. 1. Turning Your Handmade Business into a Work of Art In this feature, the author explores how business can itself
Miche Scott was craving a creative outlet when she discovered the magic of handmade soap. In her interview, the artisan revealed how she turned a creative spark into her side hustle. How did you become interested in making soap? It all started in Dubai. I remember driving home from work
Tiombe Huggins believes creativity and well-being go hand in hand. Her self-care stationery brand, Living on the Butter Side, invites women to slow down, reflect and find joy beyond the daily grind. Tiombe’s guided journal, the Living on the Butter Side Playbook, was her first product. Its success inspired
Lisa Fontanarosa is an interior stylist and floral creator whose gardens and lavender fields inspired her to build a creative business blending floristry, fashion, and design. Read on to learn more about how she marries her love of flowers and fashion to create the sculptural works of art. How did
Our friends at Handmade Seller Magazine are hosting a virtual Eco-Conscious Artisan Business Week to help you run a greener handmade business. 🌿 When: September 29th - October 3rd, 2025 This online event is packed with sessions on sustainable materials, eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, and sharing your eco-conscious business story. You
As a fan of all things handmade, I always look out for artisan businesses when I travel. In April, I visited Belize, a small country in Central America, with my family. While searching for an ATM in the popular town of San Ignacio, we stumbled upon Kaj Expressions. Stepping inside,
At Artisan Joy, we love celebrating makers who use their creativity to uplift others and preserve traditions. Here are three heartwarming stories from around the web that show the powerful impact handmade work can have on communities — and beyond. 🧶 Crochet Artists Unite for Flood-Affected Families Why we love it: After
Introducing Artisan Joy's "From Elsewhere: Artisan Stories Worth Sharing" column. We’re always on the lookout for inspiring stories that celebrate creativity, craftsmanship and the people behind the work. In this new column, we share handpicked articles from around the web that spotlight makers, craft traditions
Jeffrey Men, the creator behind Fancy Teddy, has turned a childhood doodle into a collectible art toy that’s as meaningful as it is magical. Each one-of-a-kind, hand-sewn teddy is stuffed with healing crystals and designed to bring joy, comfort and a playful spark to our inner child. Through Fancy
Dear Readers, Thank you for sticking with us during these months of quiet. Like many independent publications, Artisan Joy has faced challenges due to funding. As a non-profit, figuring out the fate of our print magazine is ongoing. But our commitment to championing artists and makers remains as strong as
Jamie Lane, known online as “scout,” is the creative force behind FinchMod, a hand-dyed yarn brand with a rebellious streak. With roots in Vermont’s crafting scene and a spirit shaped by resilience, Jamie infuses every skein with personality, purpose and a touch of punk. From bold colorways to curated