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
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
creative
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
art
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
Let's Amplify the Voices of Creative Entrepreneurs
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
Erica Soto, the creative mind behind Enjoy Erica Art Studio, is a visual mixed media artist and therapeutic art life coach. Through painting, workshops and interactive experiences, Erica helps others tap into their creativity for self-expression, healing and empowerment. Her journey is a testament to the power of art to
Vicky Nguyen, founder of Yummmm!Bar, is on a mission to make healthy, handcrafted snacks accessible and delicious for modern families. Inspired by her own search for nutritious options and fueled by a passion for sustainability and creative flavor, Vicky has built a brand that’s about more than just
Amberleigh Adoff, a surface pattern designer and illustrator, crafts vibrant designs that uplift and inspire. After more than a decade as an art educator, she followed her creative calling to build Bee Sweet Studio, where she combines her love of illustration with a mission to spread positivity, one affirmation card
Watercolor Journeys: How Lanette Yates Turned Her Creative Passion into a Business After a 26-year career in medical laboratory sciences, Lanette Yates is embracing her second act as a watercolor illustrator. Her vibrant, joy-filled paintings—often inspired by everyday moments—now grace greeting cards, tea towels, calendars and more, thanks
Beck Ng, a surface designer and maker based in Melbourne, Australia, has transformed her lifelong love of making things into a thriving business. Through her brand, Fabric Drawer, she brings vibrant, nature-inspired patterns to life, creating products that delight customers and celebrate the beauty of everyday moments. In this interview