{"id":16,"date":"2012-10-15T00:25:12","date_gmt":"2012-10-15T07:25:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/noelophile.com\/?page_id=16"},"modified":"2012-11-03T09:58:16","modified_gmt":"2012-11-03T16:58:16","slug":"crafts-events-we-like","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?page_id=16","title":{"rendered":"Crafts Events We Like"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><ul class=\"lcp_catlist\" id=\"lcp_instance_0\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20879\">SFMOMA Sparks Creativity<\/a>  December 2, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20882\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20882\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20882\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20882\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20882\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/unnamed-1.jpg\" alt=\"Smiling woman and man examine gold handcrafted jewelry at a table at SFMOMA Makers Market\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/unnamed-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/unnamed-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20882\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(SFMOMA Holiday Makers Market, December 8, 2024. Photo by Myleen Hollero.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>OK, change of plans.<\/p>\n<p>I was just about to write that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfmoma.org\/\">San Francisco Museum of Modern Art<\/a> is having a fantastic, free Holiday Makers&#8217; Market this Sunday, December 7th.<\/p>\n<p>BUT&#8211;they&#8217;re actually having TWO free special events this week&#8211;and you&#8217;re invited!<\/p>\n<p>First, mark your calendar for <strong>this Thursday, December 4th.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>From <strong>4:00 to 8:00 that evening,<\/strong> they&#8217;ll be hosting their First Thursday Gift Lab.<\/p>\n<p>This promises to be something special.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20891\" style=\"width: 648px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20891\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20891\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20891\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20891\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/necklace-2139594_12802-e1764721040385.jpg\" alt=\"Wreath necklace made of brown felt with red flowers and beads and a red bow at the top.\" width=\"638\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20891\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Barbara Stefani from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>A series of drop-in workshops hosted by Bay Area artists and educators will guide you through creating unique treasures&#8211;for Christmastime or any time.<\/p>\n<p>Each station will supply all the materials needed, according to an email from SFMOMA.\u00a0 Areas covered will include felting, hand-pulled papers, weaving and painting on miniature canvases.<\/p>\n<p>And you&#8217;re invited to come solo or bring friends, for an evening of creating, having fun and leaving with something handcrafted, in your style.<\/p>\n<p>These workshops are free to all local residents; here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.sfmoma.org\/tickets\/performance?date=2025-12-04&amp;type=ga\">link for information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>And, this Sunday&#8230;<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_20892\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20892\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20892\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20892\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20892\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/handmade-soap-5079180_1280-e1764721214405.jpg\" alt=\"Two handcrafted soaps, one red one in the shape of a heart and one round green one, on a white lace cloth with a red bow on top of them.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20892\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/van3ssa_-13670757\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5079180\">Van3ssa<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Now&#8211;what about that Holiday Makers Market?<\/p>\n<p>Well,\u00a0 it&#8217;s going to feature more than 20 Bay Area artists and makers, and happens this <strong>Sunday, December 7th, from 10 am to 5 pm<\/strong> on Floor 2, in Helen and Charles Schwab Hall.\u00a0 Admission is free, with no tickets or reservations needed.<\/p>\n<p>A look at the exhibitors&#8217; listing page is enough to tempt anyone.<\/p>\n<p>There are far too many for me to do justice here, but if I were going, I&#8217;d probably come home with one or more of those incredible-sounding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beoissue.com\/\">sculptural soaps from Beo<\/a>, courtesy of artist Gama Hsu.\u00a0 \u00a0Or a sunflower clock, complete with a bee on its second hand, from Douglas Chalk of<a href=\"https:\/\/cleverclocksusa.com\/clocks\/flower\"> Cleverclocks<\/a>.\u00a0 \u00a0And almost certainly a tote bag with a &#8220;San Francisco cat&#8221; from <a href=\"https:\/\/yanchako.com\/\">Yanchako<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>And that&#8217;s before I even start shopping for anyone <em>else!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>And, just in case you can&#8217;t get to San Francisco, as I can&#8217;t this week, you still have the opportunity to support SFMOMA and their gifted artists and educators.\u00a0 Check out their <a href=\"https:\/\/view.publitas.com\/sfmoma\/2025-sfmoma-museum-store-holiday-gift-guide\/page\/1\">Holiday Gift Guide<\/a> to buy online.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art hosts their First Thursday Gift Lab this Thursday, December 4th, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, on\u00a0<\/em><em>Floor 4, Gina and Stuart Peterson White Box.\u00a0 San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is located at 151 Third Street, near Howard.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfmoma.org\/visit\/#getting-here\">link for transit and parking information<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><em><strong>Also, their Holiday Makers Market, in Helen and Charles Schwab Hall, runs from 10 am to 5 pm, this Sunday, December 7th.\u00a0 Admission is free, and the event is open to the public.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20879\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20543\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221;&#8216;s Undampened Magic<\/a>  November 13, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20577\" style=\"width: 570px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20577\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20577\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20577\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20577\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/unnamed-1-e1763082689986.png\" alt=\"Poster shows &quot;Jackalope Pasadena rescheduled to Nov. 22nd &amp; 23rd&quot; over a background of white tents with the &quot;Hackalope&quot; in the middle, wearing Christmas lights on its antlers.\" width=\"560\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20577\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Jackalope Arts, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Great news!<\/p>\n<p>Shoppers get to enjoy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/old-pasadena\">Jackalope Art Fair&#8217;<\/a>s winter show in Pasadena without having to slosh through heavy rain, mud or otherwise-unfestive weather conditions.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s because, due to the storm forecast for this weekend, <strong>Jackalope Art Fair&#8217;s winter show in Old Town has now been rescheduled from this Saturday and Sunday to NEXT weekend: November 22nd and 23rd.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>And once the predicted rain is over, the sun&#8217;s going shine on two days of great shopping, from more than 200 booths of curated vendors showcasing their handcrafted work.<\/p>\n<p>Just three of the listed exhibitors:<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20565\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20565\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20565\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20565\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20565\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/art-2554227_1280-e1762990461646.jpg\" alt=\"Variety of paintbrushes resting on a collection of artists' supplies.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20565\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/bru-no-1161770\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2554227\">Bruno<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.danyparagouteva.com\/\">Dany Paragouteva<\/a>, whose airy and dreamlike paintings evoke a sense of enchantment.\u00a0 Two of her paintings are also available as floor puzzles&#8211;although, not surprisingly, her\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.danyparagouteva.com\/puzzle\">&#8220;Circus Above the City&#8221;<\/a> is listed as &#8220;sold out&#8221;.\u00a0 \u00a0It&#8217;s colorful, imaginative and a personal favorite.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_20566\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20566\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20566\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20566\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20566\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sewing-kit-5063401_1280.jpg\" alt=\"Bobbins on multicolored thread, mainly blues, greens and aqua with one red, one black and two purple, on top of which a small pair of embroidery scissors are sitting.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"854\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sewing-kit-5063401_1280.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sewing-kit-5063401_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sewing-kit-5063401_1280-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sewing-kit-5063401_1280-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20566\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by<a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/webentwicklerin-5523\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5063401\"> Gabriele Lasser<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lalovie.com\/\">La Lovie<\/a>.\u00a0 While she creates adorable all-handcrafted dolls and stuffed animals, another of her creations is likely to tempt gift-shoppers most: her DIY kits!\u00a0 These include stamped fabric or fully-equipped kits for dolls young crafters can cut out and sew.\u00a0 \u00a0Her mermaid doll, frog doll and bee and butterfly dolls are especially whimsical and fun.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_20569\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20569\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20569\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20569\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20569\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/cosmea-3791929_1280-e1762990990268.jpg\" alt=\"Deep pink, yellow and purple cosmos flowers against a blue sky.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20569\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/couleur-1195798\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3791929\">Couleur<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monabotanicaljewelry.net\/\">Mona Botanical Jewelry<\/a>.\u00a0 Technically &#8220;custom pressed-flower jewelry&#8221;, this description doesn&#8217;t come close to doing justice to the colors and varieties on her <a href=\"https:\/\/www.monabotanicaljewelry.net\/gallery\">website gallery<\/a>.\u00a0 She crafts custom jewelry out of real flowers, preserved in resin, that can last for decades to come.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.monabotanicaljewelry.net\/forget-me-not\">Forget-me-not earrings<\/a> and her beautiful topaz-colored <a href=\"https:\/\/www.monabotanicaljewelry.net\/queen-anne-lace\">Queen Anne Lace pendant<\/a> are my favorites, but she also crafts pieces to order.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, visitors will get to &#8220;get crafty&#8221; with some hands-on activities!\u00a0 \u00a0Nonprofit Jackalope Gives will be hosting a free pinwheel decorating and wooden mushroom painting, just outside the information booth.\u00a0 (Can we say &#8220;cute Christmas ornaments&#8221; here?)<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_12527\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12527\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12527\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12527\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Crowd-e1541888967305.jpg\" alt=\"Smiling shoppers walk among white tents in Pasadena's Central Park during Jackalope Pasadena\" width=\"600\" height=\"401\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shoppers peruse the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Additional activities will include &#8220;make-your-own-slime&#8221; workshops, courtesy of Sparklez Slimez; custom poetry about you by Los Angeles Street poet Bryan Mahoney (he whips these up on vintage typewriters!), free live custom screen printing by Print Renegades (you can bring an item from home to be printed, or have them screen print something from the artisans on-site!) and Face Painting by Linda (who does glitter tattoos, face painting and nail art for all occasions, and has garnered rave reviews!).<\/p>\n<p>Live music will be featured, both days, courtesy of instrumentalists\/vocalists Rusty Perez, Ricky England and Paul Falcon.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20573\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20573\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20573\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20573\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20573\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/fried-lobster-with-vegetable-salads-5211494_1280-e1763082053754.jpg\" alt=\"Fried lobster with vegetable salad and tongs on a plate.\" width=\"700\" height=\"415\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20573\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/sidhick-16516301\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5211494\">Sidhik Keerantakat<\/a>h from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And as far as the artisan food and drink?\u00a0 In a word&#8211;YUMMMM!<\/p>\n<p>Maine lobster, Indonesian fusion dishes, Sinaloan tacos, and\/or real fruit ice cream appeal to your imagination?<\/p>\n<p>Thought so!\u00a0 Me, too.<\/p>\n<p>Admission is free for Jackalope Pasadena (as is true for their shows in all seven of their locations) and you might like to see their Old Town Pasadena <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/old-pas-event-map\">map of vendors, which you&#8217;ll find on their website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20574\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20574\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20574\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20574\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20574\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/rainy-day-4932203_1280-e1763082228332.jpg\" alt=\"Potted palm in silhouette against a rain-covered window with gold-lit urban office buildings in the distance.\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20574\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/imaginedv-15043821\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4932203\">Simon Hu<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Meanwhile, as we hunker down and listen to the rain this weekend, you and I have another\u00a0 opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>Through their nonprofit, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopegives.org\/projects\">Jackalope Gives<\/a>, Jackalope Arts hosts free art-making opportunities.\u00a0 They&#8217;d welcome donations&#8211;either financial or donations of art supplies.\u00a0 For the latter, here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/hz\/wishlist\/ls\/1AJRDB2NLAO3N?ref_=wl_share\">link to their wish list<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>Jackalope Arts&#8217; winter show in Old Pasadena has been rescheduled to Saturday and Sunday, November 22nd and 23rd, due to weather conditions.\u00a0 Show hours are 10 am to 4 pm, both days, in Central Park, 245 South Raymond (at Del Mar) in Old Pasadena.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20543\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20442\">Talent Times 99&#8211;Plus<\/a>  November 6, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20359\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20359\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20359\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20359\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20359\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Torrance-Faire-crop-e1760914097957.jpg\" alt=\"Red background with snow and a snowman for a graphic advertising &quot;Torrance Craftsmen's Guild 56th Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire&quot;.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20359\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Ninety-nine gifted artists and artisans.\u00a0 Music, food, and support of the next generation of crafters.<\/p>\n<p>And all of this by a talented nonprofit group who are having fun growing their creative gifts as they give back to their community.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;<\/a>s fifty-sixth annual &#8220;Arts and Crafts Fall Faire&#8221; is happening next weekend, and you&#8217;re invited!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Arts and Crafts Faire Today&quot; sign under a white arch\" width=\"600\" height=\"342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-500x285.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>According to Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild President Heidi Bartlett, great artists will be everywhere at the Ken Miller Rec Center that weekend.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Toyota Meeting Hall, Torino Plaza, Ken Miller Auditorium, East Room, and several will be on the Front Lawn,&#8221; Heidi emails.<\/p>\n<p>DJ Ozzie will be on hand, once again, adding a festive sound to the proceedings with some great music.<\/p>\n<p>Now, what might you expect to see from the 99 members of nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild who will be participating?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20319\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20319\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-20319\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111.jpg\" alt=\"Custom Crazy Candy Cakes proprietor Jalene Ressegue smiles against an off-white background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"541\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111-300x232.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Be sure to look for Jalene Ressegue, proprietor of &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/customcrazycandycakes.com\/\">Custom Crazy Candy Cakes<\/a>&#8220;.<\/p>\n<p>Where others see candy, she sees an artistic medium.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s no actual &#8220;cake&#8221; involved in her &#8220;candy cakes&#8221;, which are spectacular works of art.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s my <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20344\">earlier interview<\/a> with her, about the story of her small business&#8211;and be sure to check out her <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/customcrazycandycakes\/?hl=en\">Instagram<\/a> if you want to be absolutely wowed at her work!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20453\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20453\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20453\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20453\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20453\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/quilt-716838_1280-e1762451656307.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup of patchwork quilt with multicolored triangles in a &quot;tree&quot; pattern\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20453\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/candacehunter-844056\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=716838\">Candace Hunter<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><strong>A roster of talent<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t have specifics of other artists who will be exhibiting, I can make a pretty fair guess.<\/p>\n<p>Before this COVID mess forced me to isolate and admire the work of nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild remotely, I never managed to leave one of their shows without:<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20451\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20451\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20451\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20451\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20451\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/soap-8295355_1280-e1762451497372.jpg\" alt=\"Stacks of handcut pink and white soaps on a table with purple and white flower petals\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20451\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Raimondas Zavackis from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Scented soaps (my total weakness);<\/li>\n<li>Earrings (dichroic glass is a personal favorite, but you&#8217;re likely to find some gorgeous work in silver and crystals);<\/li>\n<li>Needlework of some type (the patchwork quilts are a favorite!);<\/li>\n<li>And, of course, at least one Christmas ornament.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>And if that isn&#8217;t enough to tempt you, you might like to get a look at their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TorranceCraftsmensGuild\/\">Facebook page<\/a>, as well.\u00a0 Jewel-toned ceramics, cute crocheted cats, scented candles and numerous other treasures are all in their wheelhouse.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20454\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20454\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20454\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20454\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20454\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/knitting-4639828_1280-e1762452232348.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup of young woman's hands as she pulls a crochet hook through a stitch on her rose-pink crocheting project.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20454\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/ua_bob_dmyt_ua-8820017\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4639828\">Bob Dmyt<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>In the community<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, TCG continues their support of the community, with their Meghan Newman Memorial Scholarship program, open to high school seniors annually.<\/p>\n<p>Their <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/scholarships\/\">website<\/a> explains that these scholarships are open to Torrance High School seniors interested in the area of arts and crafts, and that scholarship awards vary from $1000 to $2000.<\/p>\n<p>If you have a high-school age crafter in your household, and you&#8217;re in the Torrance area, be on the lookout.\u00a0 Applications for the scholarships go out to the TUSD high schools in January.\u00a0 \u00a0Winners receive their awards in May at the guild\u2019s annual officer installation and scholarship award program.<\/p>\n<p>And by the way, since Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, there&#8217;s an additional, and delicious, way that you might like to support them.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re currently doing their See&#8217;s Candy fundraiser, to support their programs throughout the year.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yumraising.com\/store\/winter-2025-torrance-craftsmens-guild-holiday-2025-a8ce\/JenCho9384\">link for information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>And if you go to the 56th Annual Fall Arts and Crafts Faire, bring your gift list for Christmas 2025.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;re almost certain to find something special for all the special people in your life.<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>Torrance Craftsmens Guild&#8217;s 56th annual &#8220;Fall Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; runs from 10 am to 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday, November 15th and 16th at\u00a0Torrance Cultural Arts Center, at Madrona and Torrance Blvd.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20442\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20344\">Delicious Creativity<\/a>  October 19, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20319\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20319\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-20319\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111.jpg\" alt=\"Custom Crazy Candy Cakes proprietor Jalene Ressegue smiles against an off-white background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"541\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Jalene-Ressegue111-300x232.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-20344-1\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_1_Jalene_Ressegue.mp3?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_1_Jalene_Ressegue.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_1_Jalene_Ressegue.mp3<\/a><\/audio>\n<p>Smiles, joy and candy are <a href=\"https:\/\/customcrazycandycakes.com\/\">Custom Crazy Candy Cakes<\/a> proprietor Jalene Ressegue&#8217;s specialties.<\/p>\n<p>Her unique creations are work-intensive, colorful and a lot of fun.<\/p>\n<p>But there&#8217;s one misconception: &#8220;cake&#8221; is not part of the equation.<\/p>\n<p>Jalene starts with a theme, chooses different types of candy and arranges the confections, accordingly, on a layered base.\u00a0 \u00a0Her &#8220;cakes&#8221; are actually candy towers, and they&#8217;re customized for Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, birthdays, graduations, Valentine&#8217;s Day&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&#8230;as well as any other themes that appeal to her clients, with whom she works closely to bring their ideas to life.<\/p>\n<p>And the results&#8211;as you&#8217;ll see on her <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/customcrazycandycakes\/\">Instagram<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@customcrazycandycakes\">TikTok<\/a> channels&#8211;are spectacular.\u00a0 \u00a0(I personally loved her <em>Wicked-<\/em>themed candy cake and her Girl Scout cookie one, but you&#8217;re likely to find some of your own favorites!)<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20359\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20359\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20359\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20359\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20359\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Torrance-Faire-crop-e1760914097957.jpg\" alt=\"Red background with snow and a snowman for a graphic advertising &quot;Torrance Craftsmen's Guild 56th Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire&quot;.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20359\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Jalene, who is a member of nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/craft-fairs\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a>, will be exhibiting her work at their 56th Annual &#8220;Arts and Crafts Fall Faire&#8221;, on Saturday, November 15th and Sunday, November 16th.\u00a0 Admission is free, and you will be wowed by her creations&#8211;as well as the work of the numerous additional talented members of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild!<\/p>\n<p>Jalene shared the story of Custom Crazy Candy Cakes, offered a closer look at her creative process, and even offered a Christmastime decorating tip, based on her talents for coordinating colors to create something magical!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20344\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20279\">Crafts Alert!<\/a>  September 4, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20290\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20290\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20290\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20290\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20290\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ocean-7042436_1280-e1757011054729.jpg\" alt=\"Blue ocean with a vacant, sandy beach and a distant horizon\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20290\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/shanecc-25943329\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=7042436\">Shane Cromer<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>September is here.\u00a0 The heat may be abating (thank goodness!).\u00a0 \u00a0And, it&#8217;s time to think about autumn crafts events.<\/p>\n<p>Here are several you might like to check out.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20291\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20291\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20291\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20291\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20291\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/lion-3142676_1280-e1757011207586.jpg\" alt=\"Smiling toy stuffed lion with furry brown mane\" width=\"700\" height=\"468\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20291\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Alexa from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Seal Beach Lions Arts &amp; Crafts Faire<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The 47th annual &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sealbeachlions.org\/arts--crafts-faire-welcome.html\">Seal Beach Lions Arts and Crafts Faire<\/a>&#8221; happens <strong>this Saturday and Sunday, September 6th and 7th<\/strong>, in Eisenhower Park.\u00a0 (That&#8217;s at the foot of the entrance to the Seal Beach Pier&#8211;you can&#8217;t miss it!)<\/p>\n<p>More than 100 artists and artisans will be on hand, showcasing their handcrafted work.\u00a0 \u00a0Local youth will perform live music on Center Stage, throughout the weekend.\u00a0 And kids get a chance to create something special, in the &#8220;Kids Art Zone&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>All this, and lunch will be served, too!<\/p>\n<p>On their website, the Seal Beach Lions Club mentions that their young Lions, a\/k\/a the LEOS, will cook and serve lunch, as their largest fundraiser of the year.<\/p>\n<p>This sounds like a roaring good time&#8211;and a great way to enjoy a weekend at the beach.<\/p>\n<p><em>The 47th Seal Beach Lions Arts &amp; Crafts Fair runs from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday, September 6th, and from 9 am to 4 pm, Sunday, September 7th in Eisenhower Park.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, if you&#8217;re further North&#8230;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20293\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20293\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20293\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20293\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20293\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/golden-gate-bridge-4271364_1280-e1757011313255.jpg\" alt=\"Golden Gate bridge with gold grasses at its base, perspective shot as it stretches across the bay to San Rafael.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20293\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/crispy-fotografie-12597490\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4271364\">Christoph Partsch<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Fort Mason Night Market, San Francisco<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tomorrow, Friday, September 5th,<\/strong> is the September version of this monthly event, combining shopping, food and live music.<\/p>\n<p>More than 50 artists and designers will be onsite.<\/p>\n<p>This sounds like a uniquely San Franciscan experience.<\/p>\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/fortmason.org\/event\/fort-mason-night-market-2025\/\">Fort Mason&#8217;s website<\/a>, the vendors are curated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westcoastcraft.com\/\">West Coast Craft<\/a>.\u00a0 \u00a0Meanwhile, more than 25 food and beverage vendors will be there&#8211;and <em>they&#8217;re<\/em> curated by <a href=\"https:\/\/offthegrid.com\/\">Off the Grid<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>And, the live music is curated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sterngrove.org\/\">Stern Grove Festival<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Sounds like an exceptional, family-friendly evening, even before we mention that there will be a Family Artmaking Workshop, from 5 to 8 pm, in Gallery 308 of San Francisco Children&#8217;s Art Center.\u00a0 As well as waterfront DJs for dancing, and public art installations throughout the campus.<\/p>\n<p><em>Fort Mason Night Market happens Friday evening, September 5th, from 5 pm to 10 pm at Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture, 2 Marina Center, in San Francisco.\u00a0 Admission is free, and if you are a Bay Area crafter who&#8217;d like to be considered as a vendor at a future Night Marker, here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westcoastcraft.com\/apply\">link to apply<\/a> to West Coast Craft.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>And, in a few more weeks&#8230;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20295\" style=\"width: 476px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20295\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20295\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20295\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20295\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/redwood-315722_1280-e1757017656996.jpg\" alt=\"Group of redwood trees with thick trunks and blue sky beyond their branches\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20295\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/publicdomainpictures-14\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=315722\">PublicDomainPictures<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Like to see the work of 135 juried artists among the California redwoods?\u00a0 As well as enjoy family-friendly activities in the Children&#8217;s Grove, listen to live music on the main stage and support artists of all ages and backgrounds in the Special Presentation Grove, Emerging Artists area and Student Artists displays?<\/p>\n<p>Then mark your calendar for <strong>Saturday and Sunday, September 20th and 21st,<\/strong> and plan on visiting Old Mill Park for the 68th annual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mvfaf.org\/\">Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Started in 1957, the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival proudly reflects both the spirit of the community of Mill Valley and of volunteerism.\u00a0 The Festival has been hosted in Old Mill Park since 1962.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike the two previous events, Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival does have an admission charge.\u00a0 Eventbrite lists general-admission tickets at\u00a0 $28.52, with a senior discount, for those of us ages 62 and up, at $23.18.<\/p>\n<p><strong>HOWEVER!:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you sign up for a volunteer shift, according to MVFAF&#8217;s website, you&#8217;ll receive free admission, a T-shirt and snacks.\u00a0 \u00a0At this posting, <a href=\"https:\/\/millvalleyfallartsfestival.volunteerlocal.com\/volunteer\/?id=100448\">volunteer tasks from which you can choose<\/a> include festival setup and breakdown, working the admission gate, entertainment support, and there&#8217;s currently (as of today, September 4th) one volunteer position listed as open, for a merchandise-vendor volunteer.<\/p>\n<p><em>The 68th annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival happens Saturday and Sunday, September 20th and 21st, from 10 am to 5 pm.\u00a0 \u00a0While tickets are available for purchase <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/mill-valley-fall-arts-festival-september-20-21-2025-hours-10-5-tickets-1405716859969?aff=oddtdtcreator\">at this link<\/a>, volunteers receive free admission in return for a 3- to 4-hour volunteer shift.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/millvalleyfallartsfestival.volunteerlocal.com\/volunteer\/?id=100448\">link for volunteer information<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20279\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20262\">Opening Doors to Creativity<\/a>  August 4, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8415\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8415\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8415\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Patchwork-show-festival_edited-1-e1445669147415.jpg\" alt=\"tablecloth advertises &quot;Patchwork Show&quot; by Dear Handmade Life\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/h6>\n<p>&#8220;Let&#8217;s keep opening doors,&#8221; emails artist and Patchwork Show Co-Founder Nicole Stevenson.<\/p>\n<p>And she&#8217;s doing exactly that.<\/p>\n<p>As Patchwork Show Makers Market and Community Festival <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/pw-vendor-app\/\">opens applications for their round of autumn shows,<\/a> something brand-new has been added: a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/patchwork-show-vendor-scholarship-application\/\">scholarship, for LGBTQ, BIPOC and first-time in-person market vendors!<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4287\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4287\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4287\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors stroll through Patchwork Show, Santa Ana, 2013.\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h4><strong>The details<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Scholarship applications are open from now through Saturday, August 30th.\u00a0 These scholarships cover the cost of a standard Patchwork Show booth fee, according to the Patchwork Show website.\u00a0 \u00a0Up to seven scholarships will be given out, every season.<\/p>\n<p>Scholarship recipients are responsible for the costs of their own travel and lodging, as well as meals and materials.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to welcoming LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC makers, Patchwork Show encourages makers who have never participated in ANY craft show or in-person pop-up event, to apply.\u00a0 \u00a0And yes, according to their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/patchwork-show-vendor-scholarship-application\/\">FAQs<\/a>, if you&#8217;ve sold online but never in-person, you are eligible!<\/p>\n<p>Scholarship recipients will be notified on September 8th.\u00a0 \u00a0And if your scholarship application isn&#8217;t approved but you&#8217;d still like to apply to be a vendor, you&#8217;re encouraged to do so.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11147\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11147\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11147\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show DIY area\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><strong>The shows<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Patchwork Show&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/#upcomingshows\">five autumn events<\/a> take place in both Northern and Southern California.\u00a0 \u00a0The first of these happens on Sunday, November 9th, in Redwood City.\u00a0 Subsequent shows take place in Ventura, Oakland, Long Beach and Tustin.<\/p>\n<p>The shows I&#8217;ve had the good luck to attend, pre-COVID, were nothing short of celebrations: live music, great food, DIY areas and, of course, the chance to shop for unique, and beautiful, creations by talented independent makers.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=834\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-834\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-834\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Nicole-Stevenson.jpg\" alt=\"Nicole Stevenson with her creations\" width=\"465\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Nicole-Stevenson.jpg 465w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Nicole-Stevenson-232x300.jpg 232w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h4><strong>A mission of encouragement<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>&#8220;We need to keep creating,&#8221; Nicole says, of the current challenging times.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;(We started the scholarship) to support people who are showing up and making things, even when the world feels heavy.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>How about you?\u00a0 Would you like to show up with what you&#8217;ve created, and add color and beauty as you support a community of creative, fantastic artists?<\/p>\n<p>Patchwork Show&#8217;s website mentions that vendor applicants will know if they&#8217;ve been accepted within about a week after applying.<\/p>\n<p>And here&#8217;s a little more good news.<\/p>\n<p>I don&#8217;t yet see a specific deadline (will add it here as soon as I know!), BUT&#8211;the website lists &#8220;Early Bird Discounts and Perks&#8221; if you apply early!<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy, keep creating, and keep inspiring!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20262\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20196\">A Summery Festival<\/a>  June 6, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<\/strong><\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20200\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20200\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20200\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20200\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20200\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ducks-7126904_1280-e1749251528539.jpg\" alt=\"Ducks on the lake in Irvine\" width=\"700\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20200\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/zacharycrespin-25816995\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=7126904\">Zachary<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>When is the best time for Christmas shopping?<\/p>\n<p>June, July and August.\u00a0 Without a doubt.<\/p>\n<p>Sunny, summery days mean you can take your time and have fun choosing gifts for everyone.\u00a0 And if you love outdoor crafts shows, you&#8217;re in for a great time this season&#8211;starting with tomorrow!<\/p>\n<p>I don&#8217;t know how this managed to sneak up on me, but TOMORROW, June 7th, is the <a href=\"https:\/\/cityofirvine.org\/arts-irvine\/studio-arts-festival\">31st Annual Studio Arts Festival, in Irvine.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>More than 100 local and regional artists will be exhibiting their work in a beautiful outdoor setting: Heritage Community Park.\u00a0 Ceramics, fine art, photography, jewelry and glasswork will be included among the media on exhibit.<\/p>\n<p>And one of my favorite artists will be there.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_11420\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11420\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11420\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11420\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11420\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda.jpg\" alt=\"Artist J. Michael Evans in his art booth at a craft fair, surrounded by his hand-turned wooden pens, platters and bowls\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11420\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>J. Michael Evans, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ozarkswood-n-stuff.com\/\">Ozarks Wood-N-Stuff<\/a>, crafts hand-turned bowls and plates, made from exotic and local woods.\u00a0 \u00a0 He also creates pens, seam rippers and mechanical pencils, with similar pride in his craftsmanship.<\/p>\n<p>And every one-of-a-kind creation gleams in a way that makes you want to reach out and touch the rich, polished surface.<\/p>\n<p>But my all-time favorites, among Michael&#8217;s work, are his Christmas ornaments.\u00a0 I hang up a gleaming finial he designed in our doorway, every year.<\/p>\n<p>Thanks to Michael&#8217;s wife, Freda Nelson Evans, who is an artist in her own right (she&#8217;s a talented actress and singer, who portrays Mrs. Santa Claus annually!), for the alert on the show.\u00a0 \u00a0Look for Ozarks Wood-N-Stuff near the gazebo, Freda emails, and they&#8217;ll be right near the lake.<\/p>\n<p>Freda mentioned that Michael has made lots of new bowls,\u00a0 as well as his writing pens, mechanical pencils and seam rippers.<\/p>\n<p>No word on whether he&#8217;s made any more Christmas ornaments, this time&#8211;but it&#8217;s certainly worth asking him!<\/p>\n<p>And plan to spend the day.\u00a0 \u00a0It&#8217;ll be a great day for browsing the other 99+ artists&#8217; exhibits.<\/p>\n<p>The Festival&#8217;s website also mentions they&#8217;ll have a &#8220;Create a Button&#8221; DIY activity inside the Irvine Fine Arts Center, adjacent to the park.\u00a0 \u00a0There&#8217;s also a 2 pm storytime, courtesy of the Irvine Public Library, scheduled inside Heritage Park Community Center.<\/p>\n<p>But\u00a0 if you can avoid buying any of the beautiful items you see at the Festival, you&#8217;re a better shopper than I am.<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>The 31st Annual Studio Arts Festival happens Saturday, June 7th, from 9 am to 5 pm in Heritage Community Park, adjacent to the Irvine Fine Arts Center, 14321 Yale Avenue, near Walnut, in Irvine.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20196\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20051\">TCG Showcases Springtime Creativity<\/a>  March 12, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<\/strong><\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20053\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20053\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20053\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20053\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20053\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/TCG-Spring-Postcard-2025-e1741802826396.webp\" alt=\"Torrance Craftsmen's Guild graphic advertises &quot;25th Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Spring Faire&quot;, March 15, 2025, 10 am - 3 pm, against a background of green grass and blue sky\" width=\"700\" height=\"473\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20053\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Signs of Spring are everywhere!\u00a0\u00a0 Daffodils, blue skies, hummingbirds, handcrafted jewelry, needlework, scented soaps and lots of creativity.<\/p>\n<p>The latter, courtesy of <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>For nonprofit TCG, Spring, 2025, marks the silver anniversary of their &#8220;Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Spring Faire&#8221;!<\/p>\n<p>And they&#8217;d like to invite you to come and celebrate with them, this Saturday, March 15th.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17455\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17455\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17455\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17455\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17455\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/daffodils-7873792_1280-e1680993412978.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow daffodils stand at attention against a blue spring sky.\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/daffodils-7873792_1280-e1680993412978.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/daffodils-7873792_1280-e1680993412978-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17455\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Annette Meyer from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>TCG President Heidi Bartlett emails that 65 of their members will be hosting 55 booths at Torrance&#8217;s Ken Miller Rec Center.\u00a0 Music will be provided by DJ Ozzy, who will be serving as event emcee.\u00a0\u00a0 Refreshments will be available, and all attendees get a chance to win a beautiful gift basket, in their door prize drawing.<\/p>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t have specifics on who will be exhibiting, their past shows have had me &#8220;oohing&#8221; and &#8220;aahing&#8221; over pottery (sometimes with the artist operating their wheel onsite!), felted ornaments, patchwork quilts and luminous dichroic glasswork.\u00a0 And if you can resist those handcrafted scented soaps==the lavender and rose especially&#8211;you&#8217;re a better shopper than I am!<\/p>\n<p>All this&#8211;and chocolate too!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20059\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20059\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20059\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20059\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20059\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/easter-eggs-7062378_1280-e1741805277200.jpg\" alt=\"Easter eggs in multicolored pastel foil wrappers in a glass bowl\" width=\"700\" height=\"509\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20059\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/makabera-6773476\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=7062386\">Markus Kammermann<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Heidi (who, by the way, creates whimsical and beautiful retro-inspired accessories through her small business, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thismermaidlovestea.com\/\">This Mermaid Loves Tea<\/a>) emails that, as a fundraiser for their <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/scholarships\/\">Meghan Newman Memorial Scholarship Fund<\/a>. TCG is also having an Opportunity Drawing.\u00a0 Participants get to support a great cause as they enter to win one of 10 beautiful handmade items and See&#8217;s candy.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking of which?\u00a0\u00a0 If you need See&#8217;s candy for Easter baskets, a special gift for anyone or just because (no one REALLY needs a reason to buy chocolate!), Torrance Cratsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s spring fundraiser also has an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yumraising.com\/secure\/thetcg_torrance_craftsmens_guild__spring__fun31\/JenCho9384\/candy\">online link<\/a>, with all profits going towards scholarships for Torrance high school seniors interested in arts and crafts.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Parking and admission are free for Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 25th Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Spring Faire, happening this Saturday, March 15th from 10 am to 3 pm at Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Boulevard, at Madrona.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>And&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Once Saturday&#8217;s over, you still have a chance to meet some of TCG&#8217;s talented artists and makers.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20063\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20063\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20063\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20063\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20063\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/638718480104700000-e1741806534581.webp\" alt=\"Poster bordered with cherry blossoms advertises &quot;City of Torrance Cherry blossom Cultural Festival&quot;, Columbia Park11:00 am to 4:00 pm, March 30, \" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20063\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>At the City of Torrance&#8217;s free &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.torranceca.gov\/services\/cultural-services-division-arts-and-classes\/cherry-blossom-cultural-festival\">Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival<\/a>&#8220;, happening in two more weeks, Heidi has verified that 12 members of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild will be among the group of almost 60 all-handmade artists exhibiting!<\/p>\n<p>Happy Spring, and Happy Silver Anniversary to TCG for their &#8220;Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Spring Faire&#8221;!\u00a0\u00a0 This is going to be a great time.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Free parking and shuttle service is available for the City of Torrance &#8220;Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival&#8221;, happening Sunday, March 30th, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Columbia Park, at West 190th Street and Prairie Avenue.<\/strong><br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20051\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20029\">Love, Rain and Valentines &#8211; Part Three<\/a>  February 14, 2025<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_20038\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20038\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20038\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20038\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20038\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/red-hearts-3979033_1280-e1739488182879.jpg\" alt=\"Foil-wrapped chocolate hearts spill out of a white paper cone printed with red hearts.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20038\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/monika1607-2963260\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3979033\">Monika<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Happy Valentine&#8217;s Day!<\/p>\n<p>May it be full of everything you love most.<\/p>\n<p>Just in time for Valentine&#8217;s Day, the sun is breaking through!\u00a0 It&#8217;s a beautiful Valentine&#8217;s Day.<\/p>\n<p>But due to all the stormy weather in California (and lots of snow elsewhere!), I&#8217;ve been doing a Valentine series on future fun, as opposed to suggesting anyone drive anywhere.\u00a0 I&#8217;ll wrap this series up with one more of my &#8220;loves&#8221;: crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Both making them, and seeing what others have created.<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few crafts fairs for which you might like to mark your calendar.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20041\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20041\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20041\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20041\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20041\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/valentines-day-3984154_1280-e1739488442162.jpg\" alt=\"Heart-shaped sugar cookies decorated with pink, white and gren icing and messages like &quot;Love&quot; and &quot;XOXOX&quot;\" width=\"700\" height=\"495\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20041\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a> will be welcoming Spring with TWO special events.<\/p>\n<p>On Saturday, March 15th, they&#8217;ll host their twenty-fifth annual &#8220;Arts and Crafts Spring Faire&#8221; at Ken Miller Recreation Center, in Torrance.\u00a0 Hours are 10 am to 3 pm, and admission and parking are free.\u00a0 (And their needlework, handcrafted jewelry, handmade soaps and various other treasures can be close to irresistible!)<\/p>\n<p><em>Then.<\/em>..<\/p>\n<p>You might also like to join them for a special event on Sunday, March 30th.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20042\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20042\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20042\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20042\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20042\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/nature-3238564_1280-e1739488583178.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup of pink cherry blossoms on a branch against a blurred gold background\" width=\"700\" height=\"394\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20042\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/gayulo-3585927\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3238564\">gayulo<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>That&#8217;s the date of the &#8220;Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival&#8221;, happening in Columbia Park from 11L00 am to 4:00 pm.<\/p>\n<p>Again, all kinds of beautiful, all-handmade creations, as well as an opportunity if you are an artist or artisan: they&#8217;re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.torranceca.gov\/home\/showpublisheddocument\/93318\/638718662558100000\">accepting vendor applications<\/a> from now through Monday, March 10th.\u00a0 (Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/craft-fairs\/\">link for more information<\/a> on both events.)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\"><strong>Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20045\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20045\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20045\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20045\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20045\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/valentines-day-4825595_1280-e1739489067298.jpg\" alt=\"Chocolate-covered brown and pink heartshaped confections and white cookies with pink and red heart-shaped cutouts on a plate, surrounding a chocolate heart with &quot;LOVE&quot; printed on it, and red roses in the background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20045\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by<a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/jillwellington-334088\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3934787\"> Jill Wellington<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>One of the best artists&#8217; festivals I&#8217;ve visited!\u00a0\u00a0 Lots of highly unusual, and again, all-handcrafted, juried creations.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to their California shows, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Arts<\/a> hosts their festivals in Denver and Minneapolis.\u00a0 While I don&#8217;t yet see the Colorado show dates, if you&#8217;re traveling to Minnesota this summer, they&#8217;re working in collaboration with the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival, which happens Saturday and Sunday, August 9th ant 10th.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, their California shows, this spring, are happening in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, April 26th and 27th, and they&#8217;re participating in the Downtwon Burbank Arts Festival on May 31st and June 1st.\u00a0 Again, admission is free.<\/p>\n<p>Applications are currently open for vendors for both shows, as well as the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, if you&#8217;d like to host an activity (they have some great art workshops!) or volunteer, check out the &#8220;Get Involved&#8221; tab for these events.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">link<\/a> with a listing of upcoming fairs.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/\"><strong>Patchwork Show<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20044\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20044\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20044\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20044\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20044\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/valentines-day-3934787_1280-e1739488904859.jpg\" alt=\"Woman's cupeed hands, in pink woolen gloves, offer five wooden cutout hears in red and pink. Pointed high-heeled shoes are visible in the background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20044\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/jillwellington-334088\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3934787\">Jill Wellington<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>A longtime favorite, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/#upcomingshows\">Patchwork Show<\/a> is now just ONE of the many crafts-related events hosted by multitalented creative entrepreneur Nicole Stevenson.<\/p>\n<p>Rebranded this year as &#8220;Your Creative Mentor&#8221;, Nicole hosts the yearly &#8220;Craftcation&#8221; business and makers conference in Ventura, as well as offering CAMP, a six-week online goal-getting bootcamp for creatives, and The Club, an exclusive online creative community.\u00a0 Both currently have waitlists, according to her <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hellonicolestevenson.com\/\">website<\/a>, but Craftcation, happening April 23rd through 27th,\u00a0 still has some availability.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, six spring and summer Patchwork Shows are scheduled, with dates in Northern and Southern California.\u00a0\u00a0 The first of the spring shows happens Sunday, May 18th, from 11 am to 5 pm in the Marine Stadium area of Long Beach.\u00a0 Then, shows follow in Tustin, Chino Hills, Oakland, Ventura and Redwood City.<\/p>\n<p>Admission is free for each of the shows, and you&#8217;ll find a parking map for each on that particular location&#8217;s listing.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20047\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=20047\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-20047\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20047\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20047\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/heart-1577791_1280-e1739489452410.jpg\" alt=\"Painting of a tree with red hearts blooming from every branch.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-20047\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/geralt-9301\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1577791\">Gerd Altmann<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>In addition, if you&#8217;d like to be considered as a Patchwork Show vendor, they now have &#8220;rolling applications&#8221;, where prospective vendors will know, within about a week, if their application has been accepted.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/application-vendor-info\/\">link for more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>And&#8211;that&#8217;s it, for now.\u00a0 Again, a very Happy Valentine&#8217;s Day to you and those you love, and stay safe.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=20029\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19503\">Where Festivity Meets Creativity<\/a>  November 21, 2024<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_19538\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19538\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19538\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19538\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19538\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/image0011-e1732134707739.png\" alt=\"Banner shows, &quot;Eat, drink, shop and be merry--Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, December 7th and 8th, 2024&quot;, with two stars on the left and a twining red ribbon at the top\" width=\"700\" height=\"302\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19538\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>OK, I admit it.\u00a0 I&#8217;m sitting here oohing and aahing.<\/p>\n<p>And that&#8217;s just from looking at some of the <em>pictures<\/em> of work by exhibiting artists in the upcoming Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair!<\/p>\n<p>Details first: on Saturday, December 7th, and Sunday, December 8th, Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair will showcase the work of more than 40 local artists from Marin and the Bay Area.\u00a0\u00a0 Admission&#8217;s free, and their hours are 10 am to 5 pm on the 7th, and 10 am to 4 pm on the 8th, at Muir Beach Community Center.<\/p>\n<p>But the previous paragraph doesn&#8217;t really do justice to the fact that this is something special.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19550\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19550\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19550\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19550\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19550\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Muir-Beach-Quilters-2024-e1732137450629.jpg\" alt=\"Pictures of four types of quilted Christmas ornaments, including fish, owls, trees and hearts.\" width=\"600\" height=\"544\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19550\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, started in the 1970s by the group that today is the Muir Beach Quilters, began as a community Christmas party, with local artists exhibiting their work.\u00a0\u00a0 (In fact, you can meet the current members of Muir Beach Quilters this year, as they exhibit their scarves, gloves, and quilts for sale.)<\/p>\n<p>Decades later, that sense of community remains at the heart of their special event.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Involved and creative<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_19551\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19551\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19551\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19551\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19551\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/painting-5496987_640.jpg\" alt=\"Artist's palette with a myriad of colors on it: turquoise, yellow, purple and green--against a studio background.\" width=\"640\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/painting-5496987_640.jpg 640w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/painting-5496987_640-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/painting-5496987_640-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19551\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/sreeguru-15641113\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5496987\">Sher Singh<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This year, Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair is partnering with the California College of the Arts, showcasing some student work, in addition to the creations of their established professionals.<\/p>\n<p>A portion of the proceeds from sales will go to help fund various community events.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19554\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19554\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19554\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19554\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19554\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Muir-Beach-Volunteer-Firemens-Assoc.-20243-1.jpg\" alt=\"Cap, bag and baby romper with Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Department logo\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Muir-Beach-Volunteer-Firemens-Assoc.-20243-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Muir-Beach-Volunteer-Firemens-Assoc.-20243-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19554\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And, once again, the Muir Beach Volunteer Firefighters will be on hand, selling various items with their popular dog logo, to fund their department.<\/p>\n<p>Would you also like to know about a few of the exhibiting artists?<\/p>\n<p>Well-ll-ll&#8230;<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Talent on display<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_19542\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19542\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19542\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19542\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19542\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Rachel-Levy-2024-e1732135645522.jpg\" alt=\"Hand-hammered metal cuff bracelets in copper, silver and gold colors.\" width=\"600\" height=\"596\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19542\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Metalsmith <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rachellevybenchetonstudio.com\/\">Rachel Levy-Bencheton<\/a> was born in Morocco, and <span class=\"dig-1hicw9p1_3-8-0 dig-1hicw9p0_3-8-0 dig-ekabin0_3-8-0 dig-Theme-vis2023 dig-Theme-vis2023--bright dig-Mode--bright In-Theme-Provider\">her art was first inspired by the rich tradition of metalworking in North Africa.<\/span>.\u00a0 She handcrafts her beautiful and unique pieces without the use of wax or a mold&#8211;so no two are ever alike!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19543\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19543\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19543\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19543\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19543\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Austin-Moore-2024-scaled-e1732135867489.jpeg\" alt=\"Watercolor of a small boat on water, near a rock.\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19543\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"dig-1hicw9p1_3-8-0 dig-1hicw9p0_3-8-0 dig-ekabin0_3-8-0 dig-Theme-vis2023 dig-Theme-vis2023--bright dig-Mode--bright In-Theme-Provider\">Watercolor artist Austin Moore is currently in his junior at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he&#8217;s studying landscape architecture. Austin&#8217;s bio says his water colors of his home town of Muir Beach and Marin are inspired by his growing-up experiences, including being a Junior Muir Beach Voluntary Fireman.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19545\" style=\"width: 459px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19545\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19545\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19545\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19545\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Jie-Lee-Grady-2024-e1732136456106.jpeg\" alt=\"Black vest with lacy black-and-white pattern and coattail sides.\" width=\"449\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19545\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"dig-1hicw9p1_3-8-0 dig-1hicw9p0_3-8-0 dig-ekabin0_3-8-0 dig-Theme-vis2023 dig-Theme-vis2023--bright dig-Mode--bright In-Theme-Provider\">&#8220;Designing clothes has been a passion all my life,&#8221; writes artist Jie Lee Grady in her bio.\u00a0\u00a0 Jie Lee draws on her eclectic background for her creations.\u00a0 Born in north China, she first studied design in her home country&#8211;then attended the Fashion Institute of Japan, in Tokyo, and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. \u00a0 Jie Lee enjoys combining bits of all the cultures she&#8217;s studied to design outfits that are uniquely her own.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19547\" style=\"width: 270px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19547\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19547\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19547\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19547\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Jr.-Artisans-Vincent.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas tree with dog ornaments made of wood or paper\" width=\"260\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Jr.-Artisans-Vincent.jpg 260w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Jr.-Artisans-Vincent-122x300.jpg 122w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 260px) 100vw, 260px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19547\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And, I also really like these ornaments, created by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.muirbeachartsfair.com\/detail-ja.html\">Muir Beach Community Junior Artisans!<\/a><\/p>\n<p>But, those are just a few of the 40-plus artists who are carrying on a beloved tradition of more than 50 years in Muir Beach.\u00a0 You&#8217;re sure to find some new favorites.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>T<em><strong>he Muir Beach Holiday Arts\u00a0 Fair happens Saturday, December 7th, from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, December 8th, from 10 am to 4 pm, at Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, southwest of Pacific Way, in Muir Beach.\u00a0 Admission is free; masks are encouraged.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19503\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19390\">A &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; for Pasadena<\/a>  November 7, 2024<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11033\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11033\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11033\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sign outside Pasadena's Central Park\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/h6>\n<p>&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; spotted, on the horizon!<\/p>\n<p>And once it gets to Pasadena, it&#8217;s going to be fantastic.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/visitpasadena\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/a> comes to Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, this Saturday and Sunday, November 9th and 10th.<\/p>\n<p>More than 200 handmade artisan booths, highly tempting food, music and DIY activities are all on the program.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_12527\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12527\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12527\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12527\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Crowd-e1541888967305.jpg\" alt=\"Smiling shoppers walk among white tents in Pasadena's Central Park during Jackalope Pasadena\" width=\"600\" height=\"401\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shoppers peruse the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Guests will get to explore their creativity through watercolor-painting workshops, screen printing and designing with dried flowers.\u00a0\u00a0 The youngest artists on hand will get to engage in a kids&#8217; clay activity.<\/p>\n<p>And in an email, Jackalope Arts advises families to arrive early on Sunday, November 10th.\u00a0\u00a0 That&#8217;s when &#8220;Miss Harriet&#8221; will be onsite, with play activities and childhood music for the smallest attendees.<\/p>\n<p>Now, what might you get to see as you shop Jackalope Pasadena?<\/p>\n<p>Just a few of the exhibiting artists include:<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19400\" style=\"width: 474px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19400\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19400\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19400\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/leather-wallet-7006897_1280-e1731015786560.jpg\" alt=\"Leather wallet on wooden workbench with leather-carving tool.\" width=\"464\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19400\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by<a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/lehafedor86-24086713\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=7006897\"> lehafedor86<\/a> from Pixabay.,)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisele.net\/\">Cisele Handcrafted Leather<\/a>, with their beautiful handtooled bags and wallets (and their website mentions that they have many more items available than they&#8217;re displaying!);<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19401\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19401\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19401\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19401\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19401\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/yarn-6541851_1280-e1731016032936.jpg\" alt=\"Square basket of a dozen skeins of yarn in different colors--blue, pink, rust, gray, brown, orange--with two crochet hooks.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19401\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/(Royalty-free image by amilovedesign from Pixabay.)\">ian<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Capycrafts,\u00a0 I&#8217;ve never seen hand-crocheted flowers before!\u00a0 Check these out, they are beautiful!\u00a0\u00a0 And you&#8217;ll see some of these on hairclips and crocheted bags.\u00a0 I would suggest a closer look at the crocheted toy cats, but unfortunately (and not surprisingly!) the website shows them as &#8220;sold out&#8221;.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19402\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19402\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19402\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19402\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19402\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ink-1602896_1280-e1731016202671.jpg\" alt=\"Four vats of silkscreening ink: red, yellow, blue, and a fourth rim with indeterminate color.\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19402\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/zivica-1088666\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1602896\">Andre Zivic<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/storyspark.com\/?srsltid=AfmBOoqKvdpPLZ4iRRRqwnCafTytaQLd_GvXJFixeaQiPpLgEOwy8m0P\">Story Spark<\/a>.\u00a0 These are T-shirts with original graphics, blending technology, pop culture and art.\u00a0 The &#8220;Volt Dragon&#8221; is my favorite, but there&#8217;s a wide selection that will allow you to find the perfect quirky design that reflects you or a special gift recipient in your life.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8590\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8590\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/ali1-e1447485659482.jpg\" alt=\"Accessory Alchemy proprietor Ali Krajewski displays her miniature Christmas-tree pendant in front of a banner that says &quot;Accessory Alchemy&quot;, at her Jackalope Pasadena booth\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And I&#8217;m delighted to see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessoryalchemy.com\/\">Accessory Alchemy<\/a> exhibiting!\u00a0\u00a0 Admittedly, proprietor Ali Krajewski&#8217;s work is a longtime favorite.\u00a0 Her steampunk jewelry pays tribute to the Victorian era, and manages to be both eye-catching and fun.<\/p>\n<p>Here, Ali displays one of her miniature Christmas tree necklaces, under a tiny glass display dome.\u00a0 I lost count of how many of these wound up being just right for someone on my gift list, and a tiny green tree with red ornaments is now a favorite Christmastime addition to whatever I decide to wear in December.<\/p>\n<p>Then, there&#8217;s the food.<\/p>\n<p>Maine lobster, kogi and ice cream will be among the food-truck offerings, while artisan foods to take along and surprise a favorite &#8220;foodie&#8221; include Middle Eastern fare, small-batch cookies from around the world, preserves and nut butters.<\/p>\n<p>All in all, Jackalope Pasadena sounds like a &#8220;feast&#8221; for the senses and an excellent, soul-renewing way to spend a weekend.<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>Jackalope Pasadena runs Saturday and Sunday, November 9th and 10th, from 10 am to 4 pm at Central Park, Pasadena, 275 S Raymond Avenue near Delmar.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19390\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19258\">TCG&#8217;s Landmark Celebration<\/a>  November 3, 2024<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_19260\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19260\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19260\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19260\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19260\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/TCGpostcardFall2024-e1728003461636.webp\" alt=\"Red postcard with a snowman standing in snow advertises &quot;Torrance Craftsmen's Guild 55th Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire&quot;\" width=\"700\" height=\"478\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19260\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Happy Anniversary to Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild!\u00a0 2024 marks their 55th annual &#8220;Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire&#8221;&#8211;and counting!<\/p>\n<p>This one&#8217;s going to be special.<\/p>\n<p>Which is saying something, given that TCG always comes up with three rooms, plus a patio, of talented creatives, showcasing their work.<\/p>\n<p>Dichroic glass jewelry, handcrafted Christmas ornaments, handmade quilts, handcrafted greeting cards and tempting scented soaps are just some of the creations I&#8217;ve enjoyed seeing there in the past.<\/p>\n<p>However, this year, according to an email from TCG President Heidi Bartlett, 75 percent of the Guild&#8217;s members will be there, exhibiting their work.<\/p>\n<p>Or, 85 out of 113.\u00a0 And it&#8217;s sure to be a great time.<\/p>\n<p>While TCG hosts two shows annually, in autumn and in the spring, their community involvement extends far beyond these events.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Arts and Crafts Faire Today&quot; sign under a white arch\" width=\"600\" height=\"342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-500x285.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><strong>Supporting the community<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Every year, nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild gives back, by crafting Christmas ornaments, year-round.\u00a0 Then, they put up the &#8220;Ornament Tree&#8221;, in Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, during the Christmas season.<\/p>\n<p>Each child in the children&#8217;s ward&#8211;and their siblings&#8211;will get to take an ornament home with them.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild members make stuffed toy bears, for donation to local women&#8217;s shelters.\u00a0\u00a0 Their guidelines, for members making the bears, warn that the toys will be &#8220;well-loved&#8221; and machine-washed, so they need to be crafted to be durable.<\/p>\n<p>In other words, high-quality and made with love.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_19270\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=19270\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-19270\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19270\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19270\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/sew-7756429_1280-e1728005661690.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup of a woman's hands, with pink nail polish, at a white sewing machine.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-19270\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/fotoblend-87167\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=7756429\">Willfried Wende<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And then, there are the <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/scholarships\/\">scholarships<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Through their Meghan Newman Memorial Scholarship Program,\u00a0 TCG awards scholarships to Torrance Unified high school seniors who are interested in arts and crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Applications are available in January, with amounts varying between $250 and $1000 being awarded to the winners in May.<\/p>\n<p>Graphic artists, woodworkers, ceramicists, needlecrafters, painters and more, in their senior year in the Torrance high schools, are eligible to apply.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild invites you to mark your calendar, come celebrate with and support them&#8211;and who knows, maybe get much of your Christmas shopping done.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><em><strong>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 55th annual &#8220;Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire&#8221; happens Saturday and Sunday, November 16th and 17th, from 10 am to 3 pm at Ken Miller Recreation Center, at Torrance Boulevard and Madrona.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong> <\/em><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19258\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19340\">&#8220;Crafty&#8221; and Compelling<\/a>  October 25, 2024<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<\/strong><\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11148\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11148\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11148\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork Santa Ana 2015\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Crafts alert!<\/p>\n<p>With just TWO MONTHS till Christmas Day (I know!\u00a0 Where&#8217;d the time go?!?), now is a great time to think of shopping &#8220;crafty&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>And, of course, of supporting the talented indie artists whose passion is creating colorful quilts, breathtakingly gorgeous ceramics, &#8220;this-smells-good-enough-to-eat&#8221; scented soaps, eye-catching jewelry, and all kinds of other unique treasures.<\/p>\n<p>With that thought in mind, here are just a few of the upcoming California crafts fairs at which you might like to shop.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11160\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11160\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11160\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/chino-hills\/\">Patchwork Show, Chino Hills<\/a>, Sunday, October 27th, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, 13920 City Center Drive,\u00a0 FREE.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Dear Handmade Life starts off their round of autumn shows at The Shoppes at Chino Hills, this Sunday, October 27th!\u00a0 Sorry to say that I don&#8217;t have much information on this one yet; while they say the program&#8217;s available on their Instagram, for some reason I couldn&#8217;t access it.<\/p>\n<p>What I <em>can<\/em> tell you, is that I&#8217;ve yet to be disappointed in a Patchwork Show.<\/p>\n<p>All-handmade items, a DIY crafts workshop area, food trucks and local musicians have all be a part of their shows I&#8217;ve attended in the past.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11147\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11147\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11147\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show DIY area\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Of note is that this Chino Hills show is, according to Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s website, the first of six Patchwork Shows.<\/p>\n<p>Look for <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/ventura\/\"><strong>Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival<\/strong> in downtown <\/a><strong>Ventura, Sunday, November 3rd, 11 am &#8211; 3 pm, at California and East Main Street, <\/strong>and once again, admission is <strong>FREE<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>And mark your calendar&#8211;the talented artists of Patchwork Show will be headed to Redwood City, Oakland, Long Beach and Tustin, before a final return trip to Chino Hills to wrap up the fall season on December 1<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_14865\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=14865\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-14865\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14865\" class=\"size-full wp-image-14865\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1.jpg\" alt=\"Long line of vendors' booths at Renegade Craft Fair in Los Angeles State Historic Park, on either side of a dirt pathway\" width=\"600\" height=\"355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1-300x178.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-14865\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Renegade Craft Fair, Los Angeles State Historic Park, summer, 2012.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Renegade Craft Fair, San Francisco, November 2nd and 3rd, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Boulevard, $5 suggested entry fee.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In this first of their six shows for the Christmas-shopping season, Renegade Craft Fair brings more than 250 artists to Fort Mason.<\/p>\n<p>Their subsequent weekend shows will be happening in Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Brooklyn and New York City, with a show every weekend except for the weekend of November 30th and December 1st.\u00a0 And note: while there&#8217;s a suggested fee for four of these shows (which, Renegade&#8217;s website says, supports their vision of a creative economy and of which they donate 10% to The Nature Conservancy), Renegade Brooklyn and Renegade L.A. have FREE admission!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11033\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11033\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11033\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sign outside Pasadena's Central Park\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/a>, Pasadena, November 9th and 10th, 10 am &#8211; 4 pm, 275 South Raymond Avenue at Del Mar.\u00a0 FREE.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>More than 200 hand-selected local artisans will showcase their work in Old Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.\u00a0\u00a0 Home decor, original fashion, artisanal foods, jewelry, art&#8211;one of my favorite experiences shopping here was running into one of the organizers.<\/p>\n<p>She had more shopping bags of just-purchased special things than I did&#8211;and <em>that&#8217;s<\/em> saying something!<\/p>\n<p>Jackalope Arts will also be on hand at the Winter Arts Festival, in downtown Burbank, December 7th and 8th.<\/p>\n<p>Have fun shopping, and find lots of treasures as you support these talent-laden small handmade businesses!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=19340\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=18280\">Festive by the Sea<\/a>  November 29, 2023<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_18303\" style=\"width: 477px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18303\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18303\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18303\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18303\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/jairo-gonzalez-d51bw0alKlc-unsplash-scaled-e1701211890388.jpg\" alt=\"Coastline at Muir Beach against blue sky\" width=\"467\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18303\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free photo by Jairo Gonzalez on Unsplash.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>What could be better than Christmas shopping by the beach?<\/p>\n<p>How about: supporting talented artists, celebrating a great community and encouraging some gifted students&#8211;while Christmas shopping by the beach?<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s exactly what you&#8217;ll get an opportunity to do, if you&#8217;re in Northern California this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday and Sunday, December 2nd and 3rd, the <a href=\"http:\/\/muirbeachartsfair.com\/\">Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair<\/a> returns to the Muir Beach Community Center!<\/p>\n<p>For more than 40 years, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has been a Christmastime tradition.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18307\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18307\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18307\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18307\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18307\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ceramics-1276609_1280-e1701212700853.jpg\" alt=\"Colorful long-stemmed ceramic flowers stand on the floor in brown earthen pots.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18307\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/zartamo-2274831\/\">Juan Torres<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>More than 40 gifted artists from all over the Bay Area showcase their work.\u00a0 Exhibits sparkle with Christmas ornaments, wreaths, home and fashion accessories, hand-made jewelry, gifts from the garden and much more.<\/p>\n<p>As you browse, be sure to look for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.muirbeachartsfair.com\/detail-mbvfa.html\">Muir Beach Volunteer Firefighters<\/a>.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be selling their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.muirbeachfire.com\/shop.html\">dog logo accessories, clothing, hats, and stainless ware<\/a>, and your purchases\u00a0 help fund their goal: building a new firehouse!<\/p>\n<p>And a don&#8217;t-miss, is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.muirbeachartsfair.com\/detail-mbq.html\">Muir Beach Quilters&#8217;<\/a> display.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18305\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18305\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18305\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18305\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18305\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/quilt-716838_1280-e1701212394789.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork quilt with triangle pattern, close up.\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18305\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/candacehunter-844056\/\">Candace Hunter<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Not only do they have their beautiful quilts, scarves and gloves for sale, but this year, they have some brand-new handstitched Christmas ornaments!<\/p>\n<p>In addition, they&#8217;re the original innovators who started the fair&#8211;as a big, informal community party, in 1972!\u00a0\u00a0 According to the <a href=\"http:\/\/muirbeachartsfair.com\/history.html\">Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair&#8217;s website<\/a>, the Muir Beach Quilters ran the Fair up until 2013.\u00a0\u00a0 When the Quilters decided not to continue the Fair following that year&#8217;s event, community members kept the tradition going.<\/p>\n<p>Today, the Muir Beach Arts Fair operates with two purposes.<\/p>\n<p>First, to donate a portion of their proceeds to fund local community events, including concerts, summer and winter solstice celebrations and the kids&#8217; Halloween Party.<\/p>\n<p>And second, to give their local creative artists a chance to sell their work.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18309\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18309\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18309\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18309\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18309\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/muir-beach-3916284_12801-e1701212841788.jpg\" alt=\"Railed walkway in Muir Beach leads along a cliff overlooking the ocean.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18309\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/pixexid-4729217\/\">Ralph Nas<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Once again, this year, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has partnered with the California College of the Arts, showcasing the work of some of their students.\u00a0\u00a0 Meanwhile, some future California College students may very well be exhibiting&#8211;the Fair offers a Junior Artisans\/Kids table, where younger exhibitors can showcase and sell their creations.<\/p>\n<p>With food and beverages available throughout both days, and its community and creative atmosphere, Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair will welcome the first weekend in December as it first did in 1972: with a party.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair runs from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday, December 2nd, and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday, December 3rd, at The Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, in Muir Beach.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong> <\/em><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=18280\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=18016\">&#8220;Patchwork&#8221;: A Season of Talent &#8211; Part 2<\/a>  November 15, 2023<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9927\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9927\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9927\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show sign sits near Marine Stadium in Long Beach.\" width=\"476\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014.jpg 476w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014-238x300.jpg 238w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>Scented soaps release wafts of lavender and rose.\u00a0 Handcrafted glass ornaments sparkle in the sunlight.\u00a0 Local musicians showcase their talents on the live stage.\u00a0\u00a0 Unique earrings dangle temptingly from velvet backgrounds.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4287\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4287\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4287\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors stroll through Patchwork Show, Santa Ana, 2013.\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Smiling artists guide DIY enthusiasts through stitchery, ornament making and the alchemy of creating bath salts.\u00a0\u00a0 Handcrafted food vendors offer samples (good luck avoiding those homemade marshmallows&#8211;ummmm, yummmmmm!).\u00a0 Lines form for food trucks offering tacos, Indian food and warm cookies&#8211;not to mention the line at the artisan popsicle stand.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9924\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9924\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9924\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"attendees enter Patchwork Show through a white tent\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Did I tempt you?\u00a0\u00a0 That&#8217;s just a preview.<\/p>\n<p>And all this, to tell you that Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show and Maker&#8217;s Market Community Festival<\/a> is in the middle of their winter-show season!\u00a0\u00a0 Oakland, Redwood City, Sebastopol and San Pedro are coming up on their itinerary.<\/p>\n<p>All Patchwork Shows offer free admission, and this is still one of my favorite places to shop for Christmas.\u00a0\u00a0 Here are the remaining winter show dates and times.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18051\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18051\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18051\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18051\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18051\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/bridge-1660417_1280-e1700097382831.jpg\" alt=\"Oakland Bay Bridge against a lavender evening sky\" width=\"700\" height=\"532\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18051\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/falkenpost-1987955\/\">Falkenpost<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><strong>&#8220;Patchwork&#8221;, Bay Area-style<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This <strong>Saturday, November 18th, <\/strong>Patchwork Show <strong>Oakland<\/strong> happens in Jack London Square.<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>More than 75 vendors are expected to be on-hand.\u00a0 DIY opportunties include Christmas ornament crafting, T-shirt painting and creating rose-infused body oil.\u00a0\u00a0 There&#8217;s also &#8220;Book Beast Building&#8221; with <a href=\"https:\/\/salamanderfeltworks.com\/Workshop.php\">Salamander Feltworks,<\/a> which is needle felting and sounds like a lot of fun.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Patchwork Show Oakland takes place Saturday, November 18th, from 11 am to 5 pm. in Jack London Square, Broadway and Water Street.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/oakland\/\">link to the event and parking map.<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8415\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8415\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8415\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Patchwork-show-festival_edited-1-e1445669147415.jpg\" alt=\"tablecloth advertises &quot;Patchwork Show&quot; by Dear Handmade Life\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3><strong>Next stop: Redwood City<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Next, on<strong> Sunday, November 26th, Redwood City<\/strong> will welcome the show.<\/p>\n<p>This particular edition of the Patchwork Show will feature more than 100 talented artists exhibiting, along with live music and DIY activities in a central downtown location.\u00a0\u00a0 As if that isn&#8217;t enough to tempt anyone to visit, ther are numerous restaurants, museums and shops within walking distance of the show.\u00a0 DIY activities listed so far, for this show, include creating a &#8220;chunky knit coaster&#8221; and making bath salts, with sensory bottles and &#8220;messy play kits&#8221; for the youngest makers.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Patchwork Show Redwood City happens Sunday, November 26th, from 11 am to 5 pm in Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway between Winslow Street and Middlefield Road.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/redwoodcity\/\">link for more information<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18054\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=18054\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-18054\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18054\" class=\"size-full wp-image-18054\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/painting-853940_1280-e1700097647270.jpg\" alt=\"Miniature painting of a swan sits on a small easel on a desk.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-18054\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/catbassano18-1211461\/\">Caterina Bassano<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay.<\/a>)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sebastopol in December<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>On <strong>Saturday, December 2,<\/strong> Patchwork Show partners with Sebastopol Center For the Arts, a gallery and workshop space, for Patchwork Show <strong>Sebastopol!<\/strong> \u00a0 Fine art, food trucks and DIY activities will all be\u00a0 a part of a festive first-weekend-in-December experience.\u00a0\u00a0 While their website doesn&#8217;t yet give specifics, this promises to be a great way to spend a pre-Christmas Saturday.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Patchwork Show Sebastopol happens Saturday, December 2nd, from 11 am to 5 pm at Sebastopol Center for the Arts, 282 South High Street, between Willow and Burnett.\u00a0\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/sebastopol\/\">link for information<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=1646\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1646\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1646\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/CRAFTED-2.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign on outdoor patio and front door of CRAFTED year-round crafts marketplace\" width=\"942\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/CRAFTED-2.jpg 942w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/CRAFTED-2-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/CRAFTED-2-471x300.jpg 471w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 942px) 100vw, 942px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Grand finale: San Pedro<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Last, but never least, Patchwork Show <strong>San Pedro<\/strong> winds up the winter-show season, on <strong>Sunday, December 10th.\u00a0 <\/strong>More than 100 vendors, plus food trucks, will be outdoors on the grounds of CRAFTED, a year-round crafts marketplace.\u00a0\u00a0 Expect a listing of craft activities and special experiences on <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/sanpedro\/\">Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s website<\/a> in the coming weeks, and don&#8217;t forget to also venture into CRAFTED to say &#8220;hi&#8221; to their year-round exhibiting artists, as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Patchwork Show San Pedro happens Sunday, December 10th, from 11 am to 5 pm on the grounds of CRAFTED, 112 East 22nd Street, at Miner.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/sanpedro\/\">link for more information<\/a>.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=18016\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17946\">Love, Ink and Creativity<\/a>  November 6, 2023<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_17962\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17962\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17962\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17962\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17962\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/paper-1100254_1280-e1699319327140.jpg\" alt=\"Two pages of an open book curl towards each other to form a heart.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17962\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Royalty-free image by Darisuz Sankowski from Pixabay.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Who and what do you love?\u00a0 What would you like to give them&#8211;at Christmas or any other time?<\/p>\n<p>What if you could make them something special&#8211;as a gift from your heart?<\/p>\n<p>The International Printing Museum, in Carson, has some opportunities you might like to explore.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;ve just scheduled a series of new hands-on &#8220;Book Arts&#8221; workshops, with the first one happening this <strong>Saturday, November 11th<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17191\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17191\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17191\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17191\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17191\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552.jpg\" alt=\"Rows of typeface letters on an antique printing press's plate.\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17191\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Mari77 from Pixabay)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The International Printing Museum is a unique space in its celebration of the history of printing and books.\u00a0 With one of the world&#8217;s largest\u00a0 collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment, they&#8217;ve always taught small classes on working equipment.\u00a0\u00a0 In early 2022, the Museum opened their 4600-square-foot Book Arts Institute teaching lab, in which printing-related workshops are offered on a regular basis.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Book arts and making<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_17966\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17966\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17966\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17966\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17966\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/woodtype-846088_1280-e1699320129939.jpg\" alt=\"Wood type blocks with LOVE on a tray\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17966\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/foundry-923783\/\">FoundryCo<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay.<\/a>)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>On the subject of printing, as it relates to the loves of your life&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>If you have a small crafts business, for example, you might enjoy printing a custom poster about your creations.\u00a0 Or if you&#8217;re involved in a crafts group, performance troupe or other community organization, a one-of-a-kind notice about an upcoming special event might be fun.<\/p>\n<p>For those, check out the <strong>&#8220;Wood Type Slam&#8221; workshop, this Saturday, November 11th from noon to 4 pm.<\/strong>\u00a0 Instructors Janet Kupchick and Lorna Turner will cover areas including some of the history of letterpress printing, how to select type for your chosen project, and how to lock up your design, ink and print it.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17967\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17967\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17967\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17967\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17967\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/notebook-581128_1280-e1699320413966.jpg\" alt=\"Blank book sits open with cream-colored pages against a wood background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17967\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/markusspiske-670330\/\">Markuss Piske<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Now, what if you have a special artist in your life?\u00a0 Maybe you&#8217;d like to surprise them with a hand-sewn sketchbook\u00a0\u00a0 Or, you have no idea what to buy someone you love but could name twenty reasons <em>why<\/em> you love them?<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps writing down those reasons they&#8217;re special to you, and presenting them in a handmade book, would amount to a gift they&#8217;ll treasure forever.<\/p>\n<p>Those are just two possible projects you might like to consider if you take <strong>&#8220;Book Making&#8221; with Jennifer Graves, Saturday, November 18th from 9:30 am to 1 pm.\u00a0<\/strong> Each student gets to make a series of simply sewn books, using various patterns and sewing techniques.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17968\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17968\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17968\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17968\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17968\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/letters-3665281_1280-e1699320688593.jpg\" alt=\"Print type letters ready for printing.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17968\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Bruno from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>There will also be an &#8220;<strong>Intro to Screen Printing&#8221; workshop from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday, December 9th.\u00a0<\/strong> Beginners are welcome as instructor Glenn Laird takes students through the basics of screen printing on paper, including creating stencils!\u00a0 <em>I&#8217;d<\/em> probably be designing Christmas trees and holly leaves, but this is entirely up to you.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17971\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17971\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17971\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17971\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17971\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ink-6674441_1280-e1699321474432.jpg\" alt=\"Blue ink abstract swirls across a page with red highlights\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17971\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/engin_akyurt-3656355\/\">Enjin Akyurt<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And, would you like to create your own wrapping paper for Christmas&#8211;or for any other holiday?<\/p>\n<p>Then you&#8217;ll have a great time at the <strong>&#8220;Letterpress Pressure Printing&#8221; workshop, Saturday, December 16th from noon to 4 pm!\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0 Participants of all levels of experience, including beginners, are invited to join Lorna Taylor and Janet Kupchick for an afternoon with a &#8220;Holiday Wrapping Paper&#8221; theme!\u00a0 Students will be experimenting with pressure printing giftwrap using lace, tape, fabric and other materials, and if the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/letterpress-pressure-printing-holiday-wrapping-paper-sat-dec-16-2023-tickets-747579389077?aff=oddtdtcreator\">photograph on International Printing Museum&#8217;s website is any indication<\/a>, the results will be striking.\u00a0 The class concludes with a print exchange, so everyone gets to share what they&#8217;ve made and take home a variety of colors and textures.<\/p>\n<p>These are just four of the seven listings among International Printing Museum&#8217;s new &#8220;Book Arts Institute&#8221; classes.\u00a0 There are a couple also listed in January and February of next year&#8211;which might even be an opportunity to give an experience, rather than an item, to a special creative in your life for Christmas, 2023.<\/p>\n<h4><em><strong>The Book Arts Institute is located in the International Printing Museum, <\/strong><\/em><strong><em>315 West Torrance Boulevard, near Main Street, in Carson.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17946\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17595\">An Almost-Summer Roundup<\/a>  June 15, 2023<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4287\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4287\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4287\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors stroll through Patchwork Show, Santa Ana, 2013.\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>The best time for Christmas shopping, is <em>now.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>I know, it&#8217;s the middle of June!\u00a0 And that&#8217;s exactly why.<\/p>\n<p>With summertime crafts events happening, now is a great time to discover handcrafted treasures for the important people in your life.\u00a0 Including <em>you!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>With that in mind, here are just a few of the venues where you&#8217;re likely to find special things, courtesy of some highly gifted artists and makers.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9760\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9760\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9760\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Blue Patchwork Show tent welcomes guests\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Patchwork Show Makers&#8217; Market and Community Festival<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/ventura\/\">Downtown Ventura, California and Main<\/a>, this Sunday, June 18th, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm.\u00a0 Free admission.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>More than 50 vendors in a beach town setting, DIY activities and live music make this a community celebration!\u00a0\u00a0 Patchwork Show hosts seasonal shows up and down the state of California in late spring\/early summer, with their autumn round of craft fairs starting in November.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7590\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7590\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg\" alt=\"Sign welcomes visitors to Patchwork SHow\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>THEN, they move on to&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/santa-rosa\/\">Santa Rosa, Old Courthouse Square<\/a>, Sunday, June 25th, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm.\u00a0\u00a0 Free admission.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This show features more than 75 vendors, according to host company Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s website.\u00a0\u00a0 Look for their DIY activities to include hand stamp jewelry making, dried-flower creations with locally-grown blooms, AND a &#8220;Patchwork Junior&#8221; section for the next generation of makers!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11149\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11149\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11149\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And, for their final show of Summer 2023:<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/elsegundo\/\">El Segundo, The Works<\/a>, Sunday, July 2nd, 11 am &#8211; 5<\/strong> <strong>pm.\u00a0\u00a0 Free admission.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>According to host company Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s website, special DIY activities and a parking map will be posted soon.\u00a0 What I can tell you, so far, is that (a) they have more than 60 vendors scheduled; and (b) from past great experience, pretty much anything host company\/dedicated small artists&#8217; business Dear Handmade Life produces, is going to be amazing!<\/p>\n<p>And, then there&#8217;s&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7685\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7685\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7685\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-lavender2-by-Diana_Hatcher-e1434818269764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/santabarbaralavenderfestival.com\/\"><strong>Santa Barbara Lavender Festival<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Old Mission Santa Barbara, Saturday, June 24th, 10 am &#8211; 4 pm.\u00a0 Free admission.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A celebration of creativity and all things lavender, I&#8217;m thrilled to see this show continue!\u00a0 We know this as the &#8220;Ojai Lavender Festival&#8221;, and kudos to the new organizers for keeping it going.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9785\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9785\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg\" alt=\"Shoppers browse tented exhibits in Libbey Park during Ojai Valley Lavender Festival\" width=\"600\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-500x280.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t have a specific listing of this year&#8217;s vendors, exhibiting artists are encouraged to incorporate lavender and lavender themes into their work as much as possible.\u00a0\u00a0 When we visited before, that translated into some gorgeous paintings, fantastic soaps and even lavender ice cream!<\/p>\n<p>Also, local entertainment is featured, and the bands we heard were both top-notch and having a great time sharing their talents.\u00a0 This year&#8217;s entertainment lineup has been published on the Festival website, and is an intriguing-sounding, eclectic program which includes jazz music, Irish dancing and hula.<\/p>\n<p>And, last but NEVER least&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=5059\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-5059\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-5059\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/09\/SPAA-sign..jpg\" alt=\"San Pedro Artists' Association sign\" width=\"700\" height=\"290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/09\/SPAA-sign..jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/09\/SPAA-sign.-300x124.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/09\/SPAA-sign.-500x207.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/\"><strong>San Pedro Art Association<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Supporting artists since 1936, this nonprofit group of talented artists exhibit in multiple venues, in Southern California.<\/p>\n<p><strong>CRAFTED, 112 East 22nd Street, Friday &#8211; Sunday, noon &#8211; 6pm<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15030\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=15030\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-15030\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15030\" class=\"size-full wp-image-15030\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/crafts-4371679_1920-e1624575883249.jpg\" alt=\"Orange-and-yellow sunflower necklace handcrafted from beads against blurred abstract background\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15030\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Pedro M\u00e1rquez from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>According to their newsletter, more than 35 of their members exhibit their work weekly in their booth at <a href=\"https:\/\/craftedportla.com\/crafted-marketplace\/\">CRAFTED Marketplace<\/a>, in San Pedro.\u00a0\u00a0 Photography, watercolor, jewelry, woodcarving and metalworking are just a few of the media in which they share their gifts.<\/p>\n<p>Closer to Buena Park?\u00a0 Look for SPAA at <strong>Buena Park Farmers Market, in the Buena Park Mall every Saturday, 9 am &#8211; 2 pm.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Or, if you&#8217;re in the L.A. area, find them at <a href=\"https:\/\/melrosetradingpost.org\/\"><strong>Melrose Trading Post<\/strong><\/a><strong>, Fairfax High School, on North Fairfax at Clinton, every Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>And&#8211;that&#8217;s it for now!\u00a0 Have fun exploring and Christmas shopping!<\/p>\n<p>And please, don&#8217;t leave gift wrapping till the last minute, like someone you (ahem) may know, but who shall remain nameless.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17595\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17485\">A Mother&#8217;s Day DIY Experience<\/a>  May 4, 2023<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16237\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16237\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-16237\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640.jpg\" alt=\"Woodtype blocks arranged on a tray to spell &quot;LOVE&quot; as they sit in a compartment of wood type blocks of all shapes and sizes\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>What have been some of your most special times with your Mom?<\/p>\n<p>For Mother&#8217;s Day, 2023, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\">International Printing Museum<\/a>, in Carson, would like to help you plan another one.<\/p>\n<p>On Mother&#8217;s Day, Sunday, May 14th, they&#8217;ll be hosting their &#8220;Mother&#8217;s and Makers Letterpress Type Slam&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">This is a four-hour workshop where you can learn to create and print custom posters.\u00a0\u00a0 On the curriculum: some of the history of letterpress printing, how to select wood type from the Museum\u2019s collection of vintage printers, and how to lock up a form in a chase, ink, and print.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16370\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16370\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16370\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16370\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16370\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/orchid-4837017_1920-e1651698866192.jpg\" alt=\"Cluster of white orchids with magenta centers and yellow stamens\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16370\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Royalty-free image by Manfred Richter from Pixabay<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"\">And you&#8217;re invited to come join them, to create custom posters as a gift for your Mom or a mother figure in your life.\u00a0\u00a0 Or simply for fun.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">But also, if you mother is local, you&#8217;re invited to bring her and learn together, for a special Mother&#8217;s Day afternoon.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">This is a very hands-on, active workshop, which culminates in a print exchange where you can take away a portfolio of prints made during the course.<\/p>\n<p>Never done printing before?\u00a0 All levels are welcome, and it&#8217;s going to be fun!\u00a0\u00a0 However, class size is limited to 10 students, so now would be the time to find out more.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/mothersday\">link for registration<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><strong>The International Printing Museum is located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard, east of the Harbor Freeway in Carson.\u00a0 Their &#8220;Mother&#8217;s and Makers Type Slam&#8221; happens this Sunday, May 14th, from noon to 4 pm, and the course fee is $75 per attendee.<\/strong><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17485\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17183\">Printing Museum Gets &#8220;Krafty&#8221;<\/a>  December 13, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_17191\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17191\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17191\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17191\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17191\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552.jpg\" alt=\"Rows of typeface letters on an antique printing press's plate.\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/old-print-press-geea3bb873_1280-e1670904343552-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17191\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/mari77-2926657\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1520124\">Mari77<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Remember the yarn-wrapped photo frames we made in second grade?\u00a0 The folded-paper ornaments?\u00a0 The woven potholders and bookmarks?<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, December 17th, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\">International Printing Museum<\/a> will give kids of all ages a chance to create Christmas memories like these&#8211;by using antique printers!<\/p>\n<p>From 10:00 Saturday morning until 4:00 that afternoon, the Carson-based museum is hosting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/kraftsday\">&#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221;<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10547\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10547\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10547\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/museum-facade-e1480621598165.jpg\" alt=\"International Printing Museum sign over the Museum entrance\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Participants get to create one-of-a-kind gifts and keepsakes, including ornaments, bookmarks and screen-printed t-shirts.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll also have the opportunity to create wrapping paper by trying paper marbling, print cards on a letterpress, and even try bookbinding!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_17193\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=17193\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-17193\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-17193\" class=\"size-full wp-image-17193\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/typewriter-gb07a3352f_1280-e1670904602402.jpg\" alt=\"Vintage typewriter with yellowed sheet of paper in its roller\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/typewriter-gb07a3352f_1280-e1670904602402.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/typewriter-gb07a3352f_1280-e1670904602402-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-17193\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/tama66-1032521\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3711590\">Peter H<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay.<\/a>)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Plus, the vintage typewriters are standing ready for guests to type a note to Santa&#8211;or to grandma.\u00a0 There will also be special tours throughout the day of the International Printing Museum, which contains one of the world\u2019s largest and most comprehensive collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment.<\/p>\n<p>And those working machines are beyond amazing.\u00a0\u00a0 (So are the volunteers who operate them.)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=1276\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-1276\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1276\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Luis-at-his-printer.jpg\" alt=\"Luis L. Garcia at his linotype\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Luis-at-his-printer.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Luis-at-his-printer-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>During my first visit to the International Printing Museum (was that really <em>ten years ago<\/em>?), I had the honor of getting to talk with volunteer Luis L. Garcia.\u00a0 Luis generously shared his time and his story, while demonstrating the use of the linotype machine.\u00a0\u00a0 That was an unforgettable afternoon, and a unique experience.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;re invited to come and discover your own reasons why the International Printing Museum, with its mission of bringing the history of printing and books to life for diverse audiences, is something special.<\/p>\n<p>And incidentally, while this Saturday&#8217;s special event is billed as &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221;, very tall kids (<em>our<\/em> age) are also welcome.\u00a0 Not to mention, going to have a great time.<\/p>\n<h4><em>&#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221; happens Saturday, December 17th, from 10 am to 4 pm, at the International Printing Museum, 315 West Torrance Boulevard, west of Main Street, in Carson.\u00a0 Tickets are available both online and at the door.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/printmuseum-106904.square.site\/product\/krazykraftsday\/79?cs=true&amp;cst=custom\">link for information.<\/a><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=17183\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16637\">Talent and Tradition By the Sea<\/a>  November 27, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_16662\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16662\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16662\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16662\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16662\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hilary-Gross-e1665186441591.jpg\" alt=\"Red, pink and blue dried flowers in circular black frames make an enchanting set of minisature decorations.\" width=\"700\" height=\"582\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16662\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Artwork courtesy of Hilary Gross, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>More than 40 talented artists greet you.\u00a0 The scent of freshly-brewed coffee fills the air.\u00a0 You walk along, admiring handcrafted ceramics, jewelry, wooden Christmas ornaments and innumerable other unique gift items.\u00a0 Gingerbread, popcorn and chocolate brownies tantalize you as you walk by a refreshment area. Music from a topnotch local band fills the air.<\/p>\n<p>Further along,\u00a0 a beloved local crafting group, the Muir Beach Quilters, invites you to inspect their handiwork.\u00a0 As you browse their intricately-created quilts (wouldn&#8217;t that one look fantastic in your bedroom?), you notice that they&#8217;ve also made gloves and scarves.\u00a0\u00a0 Meanwhile, at a nearby table, a member of the Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Department patiently answers questions from a wide-eyed five-year-old who wants to be a firefighter when she grows up.\u00a0 The five-year-old beams as she tries on a &#8220;MBVFD&#8221; logo cap.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16660\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16660\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16660\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16660\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16660\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Debra-Allen-scaled-e1665186572605.jpg\" alt=\"Three silver &quot;stars&quot; made of wood stand on a table\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16660\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Artwork courtesy of Debra Allen, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Sound like a highly tempting Christmas shopping experience?\u00a0 That&#8217;s only because&#8211;it is.\u00a0 The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair. a Christmastime tradition for more than forty years, returns to the Muir Beach Community Center, the first weekend in December.<\/p>\n<p>Admission is free, and the show is happening both Saturday, December 3rd, and Sunday, December 4th.<\/p>\n<p>Started in 1972, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair was initially an informal event, according to their website.\u00a0 Held at a local resident&#8217;s home, this first fair was envisioned as a big community party.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16658\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16658\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16658\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16658\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16658\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/MB-Quilters-scaled-e1665186705181.jpeg\" alt=\"Patchwork quilt sits on a frame in the center of a room with quilted picture on the walls\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16658\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Artwork courtesy of MB Quilters, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Along the way, though, the fair would evolve into the Muir Beach Quilters Fair. \u00a0 And it would serve as a vehicle for accomplishing their threefold mission.<\/p>\n<p>The first aim, as written in their mission statement, was simply to host the aforementioned party for the community.<\/p>\n<p>But in addition, the Arts Fair would become an annual showcase for local artisans&#8217; work.\u00a0\u00a0 And the third goal: to raise money for a community center.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16661\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16661\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16661\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16661\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16661\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Craig-Eichenbaum-1-e1665186562582.jpeg\" alt=\"A painting of an older couple: a man with a white beard tie and cap stands near a smiling woman with gray hair and glasses.\" width=\"700\" height=\"728\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16661\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Artwork courtesy of Craig Eichenbaum, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Today, that community center, built in 1978, hosts the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair.\u00a0 After the Muir Beach Quilters discontinued their event following the 2013 show, local residents stepped in to continue the tradition.<\/p>\n<p>And today, the Fair has two goals.<\/p>\n<p>First, to raise money to for Muir Beach&#8217;s local community district.\u00a0 All year long, community events, including concerts, a children&#8217;s Halloween party and summer and winter solstice celebrations, are funded by proceeds from the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair.<\/p>\n<p>And secondly, the original objective: to showcase the work of the gifted local artists and artisans, giving them a chance to sell their work and make some extra money during the Christmas season.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16659\" style=\"width: 476px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16659\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16659\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16659\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16659\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/MB-Garden-Club-e1665186586856.jpeg\" alt=\"A Christmas wreath made of succulents hangs on a tree trunk\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16659\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Artwork courtesy of MB Garden Club, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Of course, the festive atmosphere continues.\u00a0 And so does a sense of &#8220;giving back&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>If you stop by &#8220;Cafe Q&#8221;, you&#8217;ll be treated to a free coffee or tea.\u00a0\u00a0 Community groups, such as the MBVFA, Quilters &amp; Garden Club get offered a free table at the Fair.\u00a0 And you&#8217;ll see a Junior Artisans&#8217;\/Kids&#8217; table, where the youngest creatives get a chance to sell their handiwork.<\/p>\n<p>All this, plus the breathtaking views of the area, three miles from Muir Woods, might just add up to a great start for your California Christmas season.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair happens Saturday, December 3rd, <\/em><\/strong><strong><em>from 10 am to6 pm, and Sunday, December <\/em><\/strong><strong><em>4th, from 10 am to 4 pm, at the Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, southwest of Shoreline Highway.\u00a0 Admission is free.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16637\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16967\">SFSNAD: Tradition Meets Innovation<\/a>  November 23, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<span style=\"font-size: xx-small;\">\u00ae <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-16970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Lucy-Barter2-e1668734011292.jpg\" alt=\"San Francisco School of Needlework and Design Co-Founder Lucy Barter smiles as she displays her diploma from England's Royal School of Needlework\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Lucy-Barter2-e1668734011292.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Lucy-Barter2-e1668734011292-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>Stand by&#8211;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfsnad.org\/\">San Francisco School of Needlework and Design<\/a> may be starting a new Christmastime tradition!<\/p>\n<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-16967-2\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_3_Lucy_Barter.mp3?_=2\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_3_Lucy_Barter.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/audio\/Noelophile_3_Lucy_Barter.mp3<\/a><\/audio>\n<p>&#8220;Hopefully, this becomes something that&#8217;s a regular event,&#8221; says SFSNAD Co-Founder Lucy Barter.<\/p>\n<h4>&#8220;This&#8221; is the school&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfsnad.org\/search-our-courses\/fiber-fair\">new Fantastic Fiber Fair<\/a>, happening on Saturday, December 3rd!\u00a0 More than 20 artisans&#8211;local, emerging, and established&#8211;will be on hand.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be exhibiting all kinds of enchanting creations, showcasing the art of hand stitching, fiber, craft, and embroidery.<\/h4>\n<h4><strong>And, the other 364 days<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_16625\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16625\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16625\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16625\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16625\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/embroidery-gaec2fc13c_1280-e1664311222305.jpg\" alt=\"Counted cross stitch picture of a small shop with an &quot;Open&quot; sign in an embroidery hoop\" width=\"700\" height=\"469\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16625\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Kateryna from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>But year-round, San Francisco School of Needlework and Design is something special.\u00a0 A nonprofit, their goal is to share and celebrate the tradition of needlework in the twenty-first century.<\/p>\n<p>And while you may think you know needlework, a conversation with Lucy reveals a LOT of different aspects to the art.\u00a0 Maybe <em>you<\/em> were familiar with goldwork, whitework, blackwork and all the different types of needlework from around the world&#8211;but <em>I<\/em> certainly wasn&#8217;t!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=15251\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-15251\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-15251\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/embroidery-405652_1920.jpg\" alt=\"Embroidered holly with a red bow on a white napkin\" width=\"600\" height=\"402\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/embroidery-405652_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/embroidery-405652_1920-300x201.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>What&#8217;s exciting about SFSNAD&#8211;as staffers affectionately call it&#8211;is that their approach is multifaceted.\u00a0\u00a0 They offer onsite classes, with both staffers and guest lecturers.\u00a0\u00a0 Not to mention online courses and introductory &#8220;Technique Taster&#8221; sessions, in case you&#8217;d like to try your hand at a new aspect of needlecraft.\u00a0\u00a0 Needlepainting looks pretty tempting to me, but this is your choice!<\/p>\n<p>Then, there are their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfsnad.org\/stitch-in\">free, worldwide &#8220;Stitch In&#8221; sessions<\/a>.\u00a0 There&#8217;s one online session and one onsite, weekly, and everyone&#8217;s welcome.<\/p>\n<p>Plus?\u00a0 The free biannual &#8220;Stitch at Home Challenge&#8221;.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/forms\/d\/e\/1FAIpQLSduqErSYZ7fVodI3Xr9BviNqPs2roXXzQdhOfd7KxOVNCwxJQ\/viewform\">link for information<\/a>: SFSNAD&#8217;s next Challenge deadline is January 15, 2023 for online entries, and January 30th for work to be received for display in their &#8220;Hanging Thread Gallery&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>And Lucy has some exciting credentials, as she continues sharing her expertise.\u00a0 She trained, and later taught, at the Royal School of Needlework!<\/p>\n<h4>\u00a0<em><strong>San Francisco School of Needlework and Design hosts their inaugural &#8220;Fantastic Fiber Fair&#8221; on Saturday, December 3rd, from 11 am to 4 pm at 850 Battery Street, at Vallejo.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll find them on the second floor.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16967\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16945\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; Sighted<\/a>  November 17, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_11569\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11569\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11569\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11569\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11569\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview.jpeg\" alt=\"Jackalope image\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview-300x300.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11569\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Jackalope Arts, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>A &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; is headed our way!<\/p>\n<p>And it&#8217;s about to make Christmas shopping fun, festive and filled with excellent food.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, the &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; in question is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<\/a>\u00a0 This Saturday and Sunday, this juried festival will bring more than 200 talented creatives to Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.<\/p>\n<h4>That&#8217;s not all.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8577\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8577\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8577\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope.jpg\" alt=\"Blackboard sign welcomes visitors to Jackalope Art Fair in colored chalk\" width=\"428\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope.jpg 428w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope-214x300.jpg 214w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px\" \/><\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><strong>A second opportunity<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div id=\"attachment_16962\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16962\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16962\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16962\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16962\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/porcelain-2363443_12801-e1668720634517.jpg\" alt=\"Multiple square porcelain containers, painted with cats' faces and with triangular cats' ears, sit on a shelf at a crafts fair.\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/porcelain-2363443_12801-e1668720634517.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/porcelain-2363443_12801-e1668720634517-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16962\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/manseok_kim-1005494\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2363443\">manseok Kim<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you can&#8217;t make it to Pasadena this weekend, you get a second chance&#8211;as Jackalope Burbank happens in the Downtown Burbank area, December 10th and 11th!<\/p>\n<p>The Burbank show, according to an email from Jackalope\u00a0 Arts, will feature more than 180 artisans, offering their handmade specialties.\u00a0 A peek at Jackalope Arts&#8217; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/visitburbank\">&#8220;Exhibiting Artists&#8221;<\/a> webpage is both tempting, and a fantastic way, if you can&#8217;t attend in-person, to shop virtually and support these talented indie artists.<\/p>\n<p>Just a few of the unique items they&#8217;re offering:<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16963\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16963\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16963\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16963\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16963\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/bed-3105994_1280-e1668721281946.jpg\" alt=\"Four woven striped African blankets hang on a rack\" width=\"700\" height=\"458\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/bed-3105994_1280-e1668721281946.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/bed-3105994_1280-e1668721281946-300x196.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16963\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/richardmc-1834381\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3105994\">Richard Mcall<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Kitenge fabric notebooks, blankets, wrist purses and more from nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shopsavetherain.org\/\">Save the Rain<\/a>.\u00a0 100% of the purchase price on these items goes to fund clean-water projects in East Africa;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_16964\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16964\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16964\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16964\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16964\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/winter-1887181_1280-e1668721506942.jpg\" alt=\"Two smiling small knitted dolls in red-and-white stocking caps with braids on a Christmas tree\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/winter-1887181_1280-e1668721506942.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/winter-1887181_1280-e1668721506942-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/winter-1887181_1280-e1668721506942-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16964\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/monika1607-2963260\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1887181\">Monika Schr\u00f6der<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Cuddly knitted dolls and Christmas ornaments (and patterns!) from <a href=\"https:\/\/meemoodolls.com\/\">Meemoo<\/a>;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_16965\" style=\"width: 588px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16965\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16965\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16965\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16965\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/flower-5026331_12801-e1668722415219.jpg\" alt=\"Delicate purple periwinkle flower growing in the wild\" width=\"578\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/flower-5026331_12801-e1668722415219.jpg 578w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/flower-5026331_12801-e1668722415219-248x300.jpg 248w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 578px) 100vw, 578px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16965\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/gab-rysia-15136966\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5026331\">Gabriela Piwowarska<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>.)<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Delicate resin flower jewelry from <a href=\"https:\/\/lkelegance.com\/\">L&amp;K Elegance.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Tempted yet?\u00a0 I know I am!\u00a0 Guess I&#8217;ll just have to spend some time browsing these online as I do <em>my<\/em> Christmas shopping.<\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9603\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9603\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9603\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Fair sign on chain link fence with crafters' tents beyond it.\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><strong>And now&#8211;Pasadena<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>But, more immediately&#8211;with what sorts of treasures might the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/pasadenavendors\">Pasadena exhibiting artists<\/a> be waiting to tempt you?<\/p>\n<p>Think sunny-looking modern prints (totes, scarves, wall art and more) from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.antennastudioart.com\/\">Antenna Art.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Plus, body-care products including my personal weakness&#8211;handmade scented soap!&#8211;from <a href=\"https:\/\/francescopalmieri.us\/\">Francesco Palmieri<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Goats-milk soap, lavender soap and the green-tea variety would be three very likely candidates for my shopping bag.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8590\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8590\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/ali1-e1447485659482.jpg\" alt=\"Accessory Alchemy proprietor Ali Krajewski displays her miniature Christmas-tree pendant in front of a banner that says &quot;Accessory Alchemy&quot;, at her Jackalope Pasadena booth\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And yayyyy&#8211;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessoryalchemy.com\/\">Accessory Alchemy<\/a> is exhibiting!\u00a0 I met proprietor Ali Krajewski in 2014, and fell completely in love with her\u00a0 Steampunk- and Victorian-inspired jewelry.\u00a0 Her miniature Christmas tree pendant, under a glass dome, is still one of my all-time favorite necklaces.<\/p>\n<p>Those are just three of more than 200 indie artists involved in Jackalope Arts&#8217; mission: bringing the local community together to meet the makers behind the creativity.\u00a0\u00a0 Here, meanwhile, is their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/pasadenamap?mc_cid=8a75f4da77&amp;mc_eid=d2309fe4bf\">link to the map of Pasadena vendors<\/a>, for a preview of all the other amazing artisans I <em>haven&#8217;t<\/em> mentioned.<\/p>\n<p>And then there&#8217;s the food.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16961\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16961\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16961\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16961\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16961\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1280-e1668720463905.jpg\" alt=\"Freshly-cooked hamburger in a bun, on a red-and-white to-go cardboard container on the ledge of a food truck\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1280-e1668720463905.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1280-e1668720463905-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16961\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/kendallpools-6247669\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2690194\">kendallpools<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>I&#8217;ve never had a better cup of coffee than the chicory blend from one of the food trucks at Jackalope Pasadena (wish I remembered the name to give them a major virtual high-five here!).\u00a0\u00a0 Plus the meals, from food trucks and artisan food booths, tend to be amazing.\u00a0\u00a0 Maine lobster, Baja fish tacos, pork potstickers, kettle korn and ice cream are just a few of the offerings for this weekend&#8217;s show.<\/p>\n<p>Have fun, stay safe, eat well and say &#8220;hi&#8221; to all the incredible artists for me!\u00a0\u00a0 I look forward to a time when I can attend this again, in person.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>Jackalope Pasadena happens this Saturday and Sunday, November 19th and 20th, from 10 am to 4 pm in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, 275 South Raymond Avenue at Del Mar.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<h4><strong><em>Meanwhile, Jackalope Burbank happens Saturday and Sunday, December 10th and 11th, from 10 am to 4 pm on San Fernando Blvd in Downtown Burbank, from Magnolia to Angeleno.\u00a0\u00a0 Again, admission is free.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16945\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16892\">Crafts By the Beach<\/a>  November 11, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7584\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7584\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7584\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show blue tablecloth atop entrance table\" width=\"700\" height=\"453\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Admit it, you&#8217;re &#8220;crafty&#8221;.\u00a0 And so am I.<\/p>\n<p>And for the next three weekends, not only do you get to see some amazing crafters&#8211;you get to expand your DIY skills, courtesy of Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival!<\/p>\n<p>Patchwork Show has embarked on a month of appearances in both Southern and Northern California.\u00a0 This Sunday, November 13th, they&#8217;ll be hosting their largest event, in Long Beach!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9898\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9898\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9898\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg\" alt=\"Attendees at Long Beach Patchwork Show tents\" width=\"600\" height=\"404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-300x202.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-446x300.jpg 446w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Expect to see more than 200 gifted makers at this free-admission event in Marine Stadium.\u00a0\u00a0 Musical performances, food trucks and artisan foods will be part of the fun.\u00a0 And Patchwork Show is highly pet-friendly, so you can bring your favorite canine along to explore with you.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s also bike-friendly, and they do have a bike valet!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9763\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9763\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9763\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Women approach Patchwork Show DIY area\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Now&#8211;about those DIY activities.<\/p>\n<p>Just a few of the ones listed, for <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/long-beach\/\">Patchwork Show Long Beach<\/a>, include making your own jewelry, courtesy of <a href=\"https:\/\/goghjewelrydesign.com\/\">Gogh Jewelry Design<\/a>.\u00a0 As well as doing some simple weaving, with <a href=\"https:\/\/macafhats.com\/\">Macaf Hats<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 And getting an early start on 2023 by making your own crystal wish bottle for the New Year, with <a href=\"https:\/\/kuboandlucy.com\/\">Kuboandlucy Stationery Co.<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Kids, meanwhile, can do yarn painting with <a href=\"https:\/\/bychantel.shop\/\">Hooked Up By Chantel<\/a>.\u00a0 Or make their own custom hair bow with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thirdonesacharm.com\/\">Third One&#8217;s a Charm<\/a>.\u00a0 Or showcase their artistic flair with coloring pages provided by <a href=\"https:\/\/visualsplat.blog\">Visual Splat Illustrations<\/a>.\u00a0 (And &#8220;tall kids&#8221; are welcome to color, as well!)<\/p>\n<p>And if you aren&#8217;t in the area but would like to know more about <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">upcoming shows<\/a>, their Oakland Patchwork show happens Saturday, November 19th, in Jack London Square.\u00a0\u00a0 And on Sunday, November 27th, they&#8217;ll be wrapping up a busy month with 80+ vendors at their Patchwork Show in Santa Rosa.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>Patchwork Show Long Beach opens at 11 am, Sunday, November 13th, and runs through 5 pm in Marine Stadium, 490 Bay Shore Avenue at Paoli Way.\u00a0 Admission is free, and bikes and pets are welcome.\u00a0<\/em> <\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div><\/div>\n<div>\n<div id=\"m_-4231612564511036431gmail-:17q\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"Show trimmed content\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"CToWUd\" src=\"https:\/\/ci6.googleusercontent.com\/proxy\/x7Az90uC0FlqG1NQNJvbQl7YtYRlnWzoqu2O_ZLb9xIKhYpJarh3aZrZ_qlU6_VKMQpRwI5_nDi9FsJOqf0XSQHw_6yv1VK7rhIBScGS2g=s0-d-e1-ft#https:\/\/ssl.gstatic.com\/ui\/v1\/icons\/mail\/images\/cleardot.gif\" data-bit=\"iit\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16892\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16704\">Mark Your Calendar!<\/a>  October 20, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Arts and Crafts Faire Today&quot; sign under a white arch\" width=\"600\" height=\"342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-500x285.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>Crafts alert!\u00a0 A bunch of fantastic shows are coming up.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10634\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10634\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10634\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Jennifer-Jensen2.jpg\" alt=\"Artisan Jennifer Jensen smiles from within a purple hula hoop covered with fake fun\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Jennifer-Jensen2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Jennifer-Jensen2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Jennifer-Jensen2-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>You get to browse unique items made with love.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11148\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11148\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11148\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork Santa Ana 2015\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Often, the artists you&#8217;ll see are jury-selected.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_14511\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=14511\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-14511\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14511\" class=\"size-full wp-image-14511\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Angela-Jackson-e1601677258419.jpg\" alt=\"Angela Jackson smiles from her booth with a &quot;Kards By Angie&quot; sign in the background\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-14511\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Many times, participants can do custom orders if you have something special in mind.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8575\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8575\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8575\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Arts co-founder Sara Diedrich smiles as she exhibits a full shopping bag at Jackalope Fair 2015.\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>But be warned&#8211;much of what you&#8217;ll see is irresistible.<\/p>\n<p>Here are just a few dates to put on your calendar NOW, before you get super busy for Christmas season 2022.<\/p>\n<p><strong>October 22-23, 11 am &#8211; 6 pm, San Francisco.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Public Glass, 1750 Armstrong Avenue.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16670\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16670\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16670\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16670\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16670\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/glass-g9fd81dcd2_1280-e1665780657582.jpg\" alt=\"Red-hot molten glass glows orange at the end of a rod.\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16670\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Del Green from Pixabay)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.publicglass.org\/\">Public Glass<\/a> will host their Open Studio hours both days, with seven artists exhibiting.\u00a0\u00a0 You&#8217;ll also get to see some demonstrations of their craft!<\/p>\n<p>And there will be plenty to see, as glass artist <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mariaenomoto.com\/\">Maria Enomoto<\/a> emails: adjacent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/820346922641512\/?ref=newsfeed\">Yosemite Place Studios<\/a>, one building over, will offer open studio hours both days, as well.\u00a0\u00a0 While I literally just found out about them, their Facebook page shows them offering all kinds of cool stuff: jewelry, pottery, paintings, furniture, photography&#8230;and they list their event as &#8220;dog-friendly&#8221;, so your furry friend can accompany you as you browse.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16695\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16695\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16695\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16695\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16695\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/glass-vases-by-Maria-Enomoto.jpg\" alt=\"Four translucent glass vases: light green with a red flower; light orange, lemon yellow and rose pink.\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/glass-vases-by-Maria-Enomoto.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/glass-vases-by-Maria-Enomoto-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/glass-vases-by-Maria-Enomoto-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16695\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomoto, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>(While Maria has had a change of plans and will not be onsite those days, be sure to look for her beautiful bowls, glass containers and additional gift items, as well.\u00a0 Some of her work will be available in the gallery&#8211;and don&#8217;t miss my earlier <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16668\">interview with her<\/a>, for a closer look at the craft of glassblowing!)<\/p>\n<p><strong>October 22, 10 am &#8211; 5 pm, Newport Beach.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Newport Beach Civic Center Green, 100 Civic Center Drive.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16712\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16712\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16712\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16712\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16712\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/ceramics-gbd8df75ef_1280-e1666305239582.jpg\" alt=\"Colorful ceramic daisies, rose and lilies stand in tall brown glazed pottery jugs at outdoor crafts fair.\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16712\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Juan Torres from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>More than 125 artists will be on hand for Newport Beach Arts Foundation&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/newportbeachartsfoundation.org\/events\/\">17th annual &#8220;Art in the Park&#8221; Fine Arts and Artisans Fair!<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Ceramics,\u00a0 sculpture, wood art, mixed media and textiles are just a few of the media in which these gifted creatives work.\u00a0\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, and if you have junior gifted future or present artists with you, they&#8217;ll get a chance to participate in art activities,\u00a0 courtesy of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chuckjonescenter.org\/\">Chuck Jones Center for Creativity<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>November 6, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, Old Town Tustin.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival, 245 El Camino Real.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7585\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7585\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7585\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This is the first of a series of FIVE <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/#upcomingshows\">Patchwork Show Festivals<\/a> happening up and down the state of California, this Christmas season!<\/p>\n<p>Patchwork Show is a longtime favorite of mine, with DIY workshops, music stages, food trucks and all kinds of incredible handcrafted gifts.\u00a0 \u00a0 Tustin, according to their website, is their newest venue, and this is an outdoor show, happening in the Farmer&#8217;s Market Lot.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7579\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7579\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7579\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg\" alt=\"Debbie talks with clients as she exhibits her handcrafted soaps\" width=\"700\" height=\"506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-415x300.jpg 415w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In the past, I couldn&#8217;t resist the scented soaps, hand-dipped chocolates (ummmmm-mmm-mmm!) and handpainted cards at the Long Beach and Santa Ana shows.\u00a0\u00a0 You&#8217;re likely to find all kinds of special things and may even get your Christmas shopping done early.<\/p>\n<p>Oh, and watch out for those artisan popsicles.\u00a0 They have an alarming tendency to jump into your mouth.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7584\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7584\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7584\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show blue tablecloth atop entrance table\" width=\"700\" height=\"453\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Not in the Tustin area or can&#8217;t make it this weekend?\u00a0 Upcoming Patchwork Show Modern Maker Festivals are happening in Long Beach, Oakland, Santa Rosa and Ventura over the next few weekends!\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/#upcomingshows\">link to their schedule<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>November 12-13, 10 am &#8211; 3 pm, Torrance.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, Torrance Cultural Arts Center.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Madrona and Torrance Boulevard.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7356\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7356\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7356\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner-e1458336309193.jpg\" alt=\"White banner says &quot;Craft Faire&quot; in green lettering\" width=\"600\" height=\"394\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Happy Anniversary to 501 (c) (3) nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a>, as they host their 53rd Annual Crafts and Fall Faire!<\/p>\n<p>This is always a festive, community-oriented show.\u00a0 A DJ on the patio provides music, as visitors browse three rooms of beautiful handcrafted items.\u00a0\u00a0 Refreshments are available, and you&#8217;ll get an early peek at renderings of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancerosefloat.org\/\">Torrance Rose Float<\/a> (with a great chance to support Torrance Rose Float Association as they prepare for the upcoming Rose Parade\u00ae!).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16720\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16720\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16720\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16720\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16720\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/handcraft-1814296_1280.jpg\" alt=\"White birch log with candles and red poinsettias sits in a greenery arrangement with a painted goldfinch on a table\" width=\"1280\" height=\"908\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/handcraft-1814296_1280.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/handcraft-1814296_1280-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/handcraft-1814296_1280-1024x726.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/handcraft-1814296_1280-768x545.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16720\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by Silke Wurm from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>My favorite purchases from TCG, in the past, have included Christmas earrings, absolutely gorgeous photography greeting cards (fields of California flowers!), gingerbread-doll Christmas decorations and candles.\u00a0 But you&#8217;re certain to find your own treasures.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/p>\n<p>AND&#8211;can you believe I&#8217;ve barely scratched the surface here?\u00a0 Still haven&#8217;t told you about Jackalope Arts, Muir Beach or any of the other venues that have something special coming up in the crafts-show department.<\/p>\n<p>Next time.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16704\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16622\">A Creative Tradition<\/a>  September 27, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<div id=\"attachment_16624\" style=\"width: 675px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16624\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16624\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16624\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16624\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/SNAD-Fantastic-Fiber-Faire-e1663894849139.png\" alt=\"Poster with various colored squares of texitles advertises SNAD's &quot;Fantastic Fiber Fair&quot;, December 3rd, 2022\" width=\"665\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16624\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of San Francisco School of Needlework and Design, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Needlework.\u00a0 What comes to mind when you hear that word?<\/p>\n<p>Did you think of goldwork?\u00a0 Or of art from around the world?\u00a0 Or of new applications that could inspire the next generation of artists?<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps not.\u00a0 But nonprofit <a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/\">San Francisco School of Needlework and Design<\/a> may very well change all that.<\/p>\n<p>Co-founded in 2015 by needlework artists Lucy Barter and Ellice Sperber, this is a world-class artists&#8217; studio&#8211;dedicated to preserving and sharing the various aspects of textile artistry.<\/p>\n<p>As you see above, they&#8217;re having a special event&#8211;to which you&#8217;re invited&#8211;on Saturday, December 3rd.\u00a0\u00a0 And you&#8217;re cordially invited to come by, meet their talented artists and see what treasures you find, for Christmas season 2022.<\/p>\n<p>However, a lot of other exciting things are happening between now and then.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16625\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16625\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16625\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16625\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16625\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/embroidery-gaec2fc13c_1280-e1664311222305.jpg\" alt=\"Counted cross stitch picture of a small shop with an &quot;Open&quot; sign in an embroidery hoop\" width=\"700\" height=\"469\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16625\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/katetsib-1090772\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2937593\">Kateryna<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>SFSNAD, as staffers affectionately call it, hosts regular workshops&#8211;both virtual and on-site.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/classes\/\">This weekend&#8217;s offerings<\/a> include the online &#8220;Introduction to Embroidery Animal&#8221; class (take a look, that very cute reindeer certainly caught <em>my<\/em> attention!).\u00a0 In-person classes include &#8220;Introduction to Embroidery&#8221; and a &#8220;Technique Tasters&#8221; session, on needlepoint.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s just this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>As you plan for Christmas, and wonder what to give some of the special people in your life, you may very well like to check out SFSNAD&#8217;s upcoming in-person <a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/csp\/needlepainting\/\">needlepainting courses<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Or their online <a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/events\/online-technique-taster-goldwork-with-tiffany-chin\/\">goldwork &#8220;Technique Taster&#8221;<\/a>, in mid-October.\u00a0 Or their onsite &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/bite-size-embroidery-for-beginners\/\">Bite-Size Embroidery for Beginners<\/a>&#8220;, happening twice monthly.<\/p>\n<p>Not to mention gift-giving an experience!\u00a0\u00a0 It strikes me that any one of these classes would make a fantastic gift for someone special.<\/p>\n<p>And&#8230;I still haven&#8217;t done them justice.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16626\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=16626\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-16626\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16626\" class=\"size-full wp-image-16626\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/yarn-gd4c5a142c_1280-e1664311441125.jpg\" alt=\"Embroidery thread spools in rainbow colors in a line\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-16626\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/bru-no-1161770\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1615479\">Bruno \/Germany<\/a> from Pixabay.)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Definitely check out their <a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/about-the-challenge\/\">Stitch-At-Home Challenge<\/a>!\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be posting results of their recent one, &#8220;Purple Reign&#8221;, shortly.\u00a0 Then, there will be another one coming up in which you can participate if you&#8217;d like&#8211;wherever you&#8217;re located geographically!<\/p>\n<p>One final thing (though I&#8217;ve barely scratched the surface of all they do, here).\u00a0\u00a0 SFSNAD offers an online get-together for stitchery!\u00a0 While the website doesn&#8217;t yet offer new dates for their &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/sfneedleworkanddesign.org\/classes\/skill-building\/free-weekly-stitch-ins\/\">Free Weekly Virtual Stitch-Ins<\/a>&#8220;, I had the pleasure of interviewing SFSNAD co-founder Lucy Barter recently.\u00a0 Lucy said they&#8217;ll soon be posting some additional dates for needlecrafters of all types and skill levels to meet on Zoom and socialize as they stitch.<\/p>\n<p>Hmmm.\u00a0 I may just have to break out that crewel painting of the Italian harbor which I&#8217;ve been planning to do for ten years, and join them.<\/p>\n<p>Purely for journalistic research, of course.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>San Francisco School of Needlework and Design is located on the second floor of 850 Battery Street, at Vallejo, in San Francisco.<\/em> <\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16622\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16220\">New Creative Avenues<\/a>  March 4, 2022<div class=\"lcp_content\">\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/museum-facade-e1480621598165.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"771\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/museum-facade-1024x771.jpg\" alt=\"International Printing Museum sign over the Museum entrance\" class=\"wp-image-10547\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Books are a lifelong love for me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crafts run a very close second.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If that&#8217;s true for you, as well, you might like to check out The International Printing Museum, in Torrance.  They&#8217;ve just opened their brand-new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/bookarts\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/bookarts\">Book Arts Institute teaching lab<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And they&#8217;re currently accepting registrations for all kinds of weekend book- and printing-related workshops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/book-gfa0e3c13b_640.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/book-gfa0e3c13b_640.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup of book pages fanning out in a starlike pattern\" class=\"wp-image-16233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/book-gfa0e3c13b_640.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/book-gfa0e3c13b_640-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/pexels-2286921\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1283865\">Pexels<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1283865\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll recall that The International Printing Museum houses one of the world&#8217;s largest collections of working antique printing presses.  During holidays, they host special events, such as last December&#8217;s &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221;.  Often, visitors get the opportunity to print something special (greeting cards, posters, gift tags) on a vintage printer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, you&#8217;ll get a chance to present your best literary works in a handcrafted edition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/old-print-press-1520124_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/old-print-press-1520124_1920.jpg\" alt=\"plates on an antique pringitn press\" class=\"wp-image-15346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/old-print-press-1520124_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/old-print-press-1520124_1920-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Or, if you&#8217;d rather, create custom posters for your living space or upcoming event.  Or craft unique cards for the special people in your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently, the Book Arts Institute lists five new classes for which they&#8217;re accepting registrations.   Most are one-day workshops, running between six and seven hours with a one-hour lunch break.  (The exception: &#8220;Composing and Impressions with Metal Type&#8221;, which is a two-day course in April.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Course offerings<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640.jpg\" alt=\"Woodtype blocks arranged on a tray to spell &quot;LOVE&quot; as they sit in a compartment of wood type blocks of all shapes and sizes\" class=\"wp-image-16237\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/woodtype-ga12a58f29_640-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/foundry-923783\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=846088\">Foundry Co<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=846088\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The first listed workshop, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/wood-type-posters-for-womens-history-month-tickets-275168084147\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/wood-type-posters-for-womens-history-month-tickets-275168084147\">&#8220;Women&#8217;s History Month Wood Type Posters&#8221;<\/a>, happens Saturday, March 19th.   Artist and award-winning typography educator Christina Aumann is the instructor for this inaugural workshop.  Among the areas the class will cover: how to handset wood type, and the basics of printing with a Vandercook proofing press. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/ink-gfdefc431a_640.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/ink-gfdefc431a_640.jpg\" alt=\"Abstract swirls of blue, purple and orange ink on a white background\" class=\"wp-image-16234\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/ink-gfdefc431a_640.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/ink-gfdefc431a_640-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/engin_akyurt-3656355\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=6674441\">Engin Akyurt<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=6674441\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;m particularly intrigued by the workshop which studio artist and author Madeline Holland will offer, on Saturday, March 26th: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/suminagashi-marbling-and-japanese-bookbinding-tickets-275243610047\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/suminagashi-marbling-and-japanese-bookbinding-tickets-275243610047\">&#8220;Sumingashi Marbling and Japanese Binding&#8221;<\/a>.  &#8220;Suminagashi&#8221;, in Japanese, means &#8220;floating ink&#8221;, and is an art which dates back to twelfth-century Japan.   A look at the Book Arts Institute&#8217;s page reveals beautiful and delicate swirls created with this technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In April, Christina and Marilyn will be offering workshops in &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/metal-type-composition\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/metal-type-composition\">Composing &amp; Impressions with Metal Type<\/a>&#8221; and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/intro-to-bookbinding-tickets-291020619507\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/intro-to-bookbinding-tickets-291020619507\">&#8220;Intro to Bookbinding&#8221;<\/a>, respectively.  And in May, International Printing Museum Founding Director \/Curator Mark Barbour will host <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/intro-to-platen-press\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/intro-to-platen-press\">&#8220;Intro to Printing on a Platen Press&#8221;.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fees for the workshops range from $125 to $250 for the two day workshop.   Class sizes are generally small: most often, eight students, though the &#8220;Suminagashi Marbling&#8221; and &#8220;Intro to Bookbinding&#8221; will accept ten.   You&#8217;ll find all the information <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/bookarts\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/bookarts\">here.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>The International Printing Museum, in Carson, is located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard, west of Main Street, in Carson.   The Museum is open Saturdays, 10 am to 4 pm, and Tuesday through Friday, by appointment only<\/em><\/strong>.   <em><strong>Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\">link to check out the Museum&#8217;s blog, their newsletter and their community services to local schools and organizations!<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=16220\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15834\">Time to Get &#8220;Krafty&#8221;<\/a>  December 8, 2021<div class=\"lcp_content\">\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/origami-11054_640.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"375\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/origami-11054_640.jpg\" alt=\"a gold and a red origami paper crane sit next to each other on a table\" class=\"wp-image-15854\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/origami-11054_640.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/origami-11054_640-300x188.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/wikiimages-1897\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=11054\">WikiImages<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=11054\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, back in school, how much fun it was to make Christmas gifts?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Those painted clothespin letter-holders, yarn-covered cardboard picture frames and juice-can pencil holders we proudly decorated and presented on Christmas morning?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I<a href=\"http:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.printmuseum.org\/\">nternational Printing Museum<\/a>, in Carson, remembers.  This Saturday, December 11th, they&#8217;re hosting &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221;!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Except&#8211;you don&#8217;t have to literally <em>be <\/em>a kid, to participate.  We &#8220;tall kids&#8221; are welcome, too.  You get to settle in for a December day of crafting and learning new skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And the Museum has an extra, after-December-25th Christmas present for us &#8220;bigger kids&#8221;!  But we&#8217;ll get to that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Intl-Printing-Museum.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Intl-Printing-Museum.jpg\" alt=\"International Printing Museum sign above the Museum's doorway\" class=\"wp-image-2515\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Intl-Printing-Museum.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Intl-Printing-Museum-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Intl-Printing-Museum-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>For &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day&#8221;, they&#8217;re hosting a family-friendly day of crafting.  Attendees get to make ornaments, wrapping paper, tags and other exciting Christmas- or holiday-themed fun items.  The event runs from 10 am to 4 pm, but you may well want to show up around 10:00 that morning and plan on spending the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what are some of the new skills you&#8217;ll be able to learn, and put to use, to make something fun?  Paper marbling, papermaking, screenprinting, origami, bookbinding and calligraphy, are listed among the various media the Museum&#8217;s onsite artisans will be demonstrating.  You may also get to silkscreen some T-shirts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/old-time-950445_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/old-time-950445_1920.jpg\" alt=\"Antique printing press against a wall with page being printed\" class=\"wp-image-15857\" width=\"605\" height=\"455\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/old-time-950445_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/old-time-950445_1920-300x226.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 605px) 100vw, 605px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/rayholloway-1314401\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=950445\">Ray Holloway<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=950445\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Tours of the facility will be offered.  Nonprofit International Printing Museum houses one of the world\u2019s largest and most comprehensive collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment.  And that means you&#8217;ll get to observe these antique presses in action!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/printmuseum-106904.square.site\/product\/krazykraftsday\/79?cs=true&amp;cst=custom\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/printmuseum-106904.square.site\/product\/krazykraftsday\/79?cs=true&amp;cst=custom\">link for more information about &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221;<\/a>, happening from 10 am to 4 pm, this Saturday, December 11th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now&#8211;the additional present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;ve ever envied Charles Dickens his ability to self-publish <em>A Christmas Carol <\/em>as a beautiful, cloth-bound first edition&#8211;you may soon be able to do the same with <em>your<\/em> literary masterpiece.  Minus the headaches that Dickens had!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In early 2022,  the International Printing Museum plans to open their new Book Arts Institute teaching lab!     Book binding, paper arts, and printing will be among the classes they offer, according to a recent email from the Museum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;ll keep you posted on their schedule as soon as it becomes available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>The International Printing Museum, in Carson, hosts their &#8220;Holiday Krafts Day for Kids&#8221; from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, December 11th.  Tickets are $10 each and are available at the door, as well as <a href=\"http:\/\/printmuseum-106904.square.site\/product\/krazykraftsday\/79?cs=true&amp;cst=custom\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/printmuseum-106904.square.site\/product\/krazykraftsday\/79?cs=true&amp;cst=custom\">at this link.<\/a> The International Printing Museum is located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard, west of Main Street, in Carson.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15834\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15486\">Return of the &#8220;Jackalope&#8221;<\/a>  November 18, 2021<div class=\"lcp_content\">\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Fair sign on chain link fence with crafters' tents beyond it.\" class=\"wp-image-9603\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>What&#8217;s better than a picnic in a beautiful Southern California park, the weekend before Thanksgiving?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How about&#8211;a picnic in that park, surrounded by more than 200 handmade artisans, with music by local musicians AND a chance to have fun learning to hula hoop&#8211;or to get a workout polishing the &#8220;hooping&#8221; skills you already have?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And you don&#8217;t even have to pack a picnic basket.  Just bring a blanket: food vendors will be waiting to tempt your appetite!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That&#8217;s a celebration, Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair-style.  And it&#8217;s happening in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, this weekend!  If you&#8217;re out and about (fully vaccinated and observing all the safety protocols, please!), this is going to be a blast!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sign outside Pasadena's Central Park\" class=\"wp-image-11033\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>(Quick note&#8211;if you&#8217;re still isolated during these scary COVID days, you still get to &#8220;shop handmade from home&#8221;!    Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/shop.localundercover.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/shop.localundercover.com\/\">link to Jackalope Arts&#8217; &#8220;Local Undercover&#8221; online marketplace<\/a>.  I bought some gorgeous earrings for some of the folks on my gift list through them, last year.  And currently browsing for&#8211;well, better not say.  No need to spoil the surprise if they read this!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And, if you <em>are<\/em> going out. here are the details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From 10 am to 4 pm, this Saturday and Sunday, November 20th and 21st, Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair will welcome 200+ local artisans to Central Park, in the heart of Old Pasadena.    Admission is free, and the focus is on the creative community.  This is your chance to meet the artists and hear the stories behind the creations!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browsing the multiple booths, you&#8217;re likely to find treasures including: bracelet kits that can help kids with their math; amazing ornaments (we still hang up the gold &#8220;string art&#8221; snowflake plaque which I found at a previous Jackalope Fair, every Christmas!); unique planters;  slippers and other handcrafted wearables; and more other imaginative, fun items than you have the time for me to list. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/sewing-5117021_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/sewing-5117021_1920.jpg\" alt=\"Woman's hand guides woolly fabric under the presser foot of a sewing machine with spools of red and blue thread in the background\" class=\"wp-image-15514\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/sewing-5117021_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/sewing-5117021_1920-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/cjmm-12470662\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5117021\">C\u00e9line Martin<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=5117021\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>While you&#8217;re there, don&#8217;t forget to drop by the <a href=\"http:\/\/fuzziedot.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/fuzziedot.com\/\">Fuzzie Dot <\/a>booth and say &#8220;hi&#8221; to gifted creator Kristin Oxnard.  Wait&#8217;ll you see her adorable animal blankets!  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting with a circle, Kristin designs a line of animal blankets for babies and small children, out of an incredibly-soft plush called &#8220;minky&#8221;.   Kristin has patented her unique design, and can take custom orders if you have an animal in mind which you don&#8217;t see in her booth.  Here&#8217;s the link to <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15100\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15100\">our earlier interview,<\/a> in which she shares the story of her small handmade business.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And she didn&#8217;t forget us bigger folks&#8211;her &#8220;Luxie Dot&#8221; throws are designed to curl up with on a chilly night, perhaps with a Christmas movie and a cup of hot chocolate!   Or, if you&#8217;re going out on the town&#8211;New Year&#8217;s Eve, perhaps?&#8211;and want a touch of something luxurious, ask to see her purses, too.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/guitar-1583461_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/guitar-1583461_1920.jpg\" alt=\"An acoustic guitar on grass with a leather bag, with sheet music sticking out of its top, leaning against it\" class=\"wp-image-15516\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/guitar-1583461_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/guitar-1583461_1920-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/congerdesign-509903\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1583461\">congerdesign<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1583461\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, you&#8217;ll get to enjoy acoustic music as local musicians Ricky England, Jackson Crow, and The Simian Racket take the performance stage.   But you and your family don&#8217;t have to be passive attendees if you prefer to be interactive!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On Saturday and Sunday, from 11 am to noon, kids get to participate in a &#8220;kids&#8217; music session&#8221;, courtesy of Ricky England.  And both days, little kids and us &#8220;big kids&#8221; get to participate in a hula-hooping workshop, with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eclectichoops.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.eclectichoops.com\/\">Eclectic Hoops<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"545\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\" alt=\"Jen Jensen poses in a fur-covered purple hula hoop at Jackalope Art and Craft Fair, in Pasadena's Central Park.\" class=\"wp-image-14592\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-300x273.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Jen Jensen of Eclectic Hoops, Jackalope Art and Craft Fair, Pasadena, 2015.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I had the pleasure of <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10630\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10630\">interviewing Eclectic Hoops proprietor Jennifer Jensen in 2016<\/a>, and she&#8217;s a performing artist who loves what she does!  Jennifer creates handmade dance hoops, and can also do custom designs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While I personally love her purple fake-fur hoops, if you&#8217;re performing live (in a Christmas show or parade, perhaps?) you might like to see her sparklier varieties.  These are knock-your-eyes-out gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Oh&#8211;almost forgot&#8211;the food!    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1920.jpg\" alt=\"A hamburger piled high with tomatoes and lettuce sits in a red-and-white cardboard serving container on the ledge of a food truck\" class=\"wp-image-15519\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/food-truck-2690194_1920-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/kendallpools-6247669\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2690194\">kendallpools<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2690194\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The cuisine at Jackalope Arts Pasadena could make the apples, cheese and crackers we used to take on family picnics, look pretty bland, by comparison.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the food-truck department: on Saturday, you&#8217;ll get to sample fusion cuisine from the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thaimexcocina\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thaimexcocina\">Thai Mex Truck<\/a>,  while the <a href=\"http:\/\/kogibbq.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/kogibbq.com\/\">Kogi BBQ<\/a> truck will be there Sunday only.  And both days, expect to find some amazing burgers, Caribbean cuisine and chai drinks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, the artisanal food booths will include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.kensporkstickers.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.kensporkstickers.com\/\">Ken&#8217;s Porkstickers<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/avocadamama.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/avocadamama.com\/\">Avocadamama,<\/a> <a href=\"http:\/\/unforgettablelemonade.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/unforgettablelemonade.com\/\">Unforgettable Lemonade<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.drinkerva.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.drinkerva.com\/\">Erva Brew<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nikiscreamery.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.nikiscreamery.com\/\">Niki&#8217;s Creamery<\/a>, and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bettertogethersweets.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.bettertogethersweets.com\/\">Better Together Sweets<\/a>.   So, pork potstickers, plant-based mac and cheese, all-fresh-ingredient lemonade, craft sorbets, and artisanal pudding cups in flavors like strawberry shortcake&#8211;wow.   You&#8217;re sure to find a new favorite&#8211;and maybe something special for the &#8220;foodies&#8221; on your gift list, as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And a huge &#8220;congratulations&#8221; to Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair, for all they&#8217;ve done since debuting in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park in April, 2015!  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today. they continue their mission of giving communities a chance to meet creators of the highest-quality handcrafted goods, with shows in FOUR cities: Pasadena, Denver, Burbank and Minneapolis!  And when COVID struck, they continued to support artists with the above-mentioned &#8220;Local Undercover&#8221; virtual market.  Currently, they&#8217;re also recruiting artists for their spring shows in Pasadena and Burbank.   If you have something amazing to share, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/apply\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/apply\">here&#8217;s the link to apply.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yay, Jackalope!    I&#8217;m looking forward to seeing everyone onsite again in the very near future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>The Jackalope Pasadena Indie Artisan Fair happens this Saturday and Sunday, November 20th and 21st, from 10 am to 4 pm, in Central Park, on Raymond at Del Mar, in Old Town Pasadena.  Admission is free, and free 90-minute parking is available at all &#8220;Park and Walk&#8221; structures in Old Town.  Parking fees are $2 per hour thereafter, up to $8 max, per day.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>And, save the date!  Jackalope Burbank happens Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th in downtown Bu<\/em><\/strong><em><strong>rbank.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15486\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15434\">A Creative Community Gathers<\/a>  November 13, 2021<div class=\"lcp_content\">\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner-e1458336309193.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"394\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner-e1458336309193.jpg\" alt=\"White banner says &quot;Craft Faire&quot; in green lettering\" class=\"wp-image-7356\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Yay!  The <a href=\"http:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s<\/a> 52nd Annual  Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire happens today and tomorrow!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Boo!  I can&#8217;t go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned in previous posts, we&#8217;re still self-isolating out of an abundance of caution.  You be careful too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you&#8217;re out and about (and wearing your face mask, please!) you&#8217;ll get to meet some amazing artists if you go.  You&#8217;ll also be supporting a great cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>501c3 nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild gives annual scholarships to high school seniors, in the Torrance area, with an interest in arts and crafts.  In addition, they give talented local artists a chance to sell their handcrafted work with two annual shows&#8211;in Spring and Fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Fall one starts at 10 am today, Saturday, November 13th, and runs till three pm.  Hours will be the same tomorrow, Sunday, November 14th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And some of the incredible handcrafted items you might find?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/christmas-1184685_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/christmas-1184685_1920.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas Advent calendar wall hanging with green tree in the middle, made of patchwork, on a wall\" class=\"wp-image-15443\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/christmas-1184685_1920.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/christmas-1184685_1920-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/kazpeirce-2017697\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1184685\">Kaz Peirce<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1184685\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, this is absolutely up to you.  But in the past, we&#8217;ve bought a gorgeous Christmas-wreath arrangement with velvet ribbons and jingle bells, which we put up every year.  And some sparkly dichroic-glass earrings.   And a very cute pair of &#8220;gingerbread&#8221; dolls from an award-winning dollmaker.  And some handcrafted cards from an artist who says she never had graphic-arts training (you could&#8217;ve fooled me!).  And some fun Christmas-tree earrings.  And my favorite scented soap.  And&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>OK, OK.  You can tell we&#8217;ve been there more than once.  Pre-pandemic, this was a favorite for both Spring and Fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This year, what might you see, if you go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/craft-3864666_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/craft-3864666_1920.jpg\" alt=\"Three snowmen made of craft fur with orange-felt carrot noses, sitting on a shelf\" class=\"wp-image-15445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/craft-3864666_1920.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/craft-3864666_1920-300x175.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Royalty-free image by <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/users\/blende12-201217\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3864666\">Gerhard G.<\/a> from <a href=\"http:\/\/pixabay.com\/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3864666\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, the Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s Facebook page currently has a video, offering &#8220;a taste&#8221; of what they&#8217;ll exhibit.  Sparkly beaded bags, colorful silk scarves, nicely-packaged scented soaps  and whimsical Christmas stockings are among the items they&#8217;re showing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tempted?  I certainly would be, if not for this pandemic.  If you go (and again, be safe: mask, social-distancing, hand sanitizer and stay home if you feel sick, please), give them lots of love for me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>The Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 52nd Annual Arts &amp; Crafts Fall Faire happens Saturday and Sunday, November 13th and 14th, 10 am to 3 pm both days, at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Madrona and Torrance Boulevard.  Admission is free. <\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15434\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15359\">Patchwork Show&#8217;s Upcoming &#8220;Cornucopia&#8221;<\/a>  November 5, 2021<div class=\"lcp_content\">\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"453\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\" alt=\"Information table covered with a blue cloth with &quot;Dear Handmade Life Presents Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival&quot; on it in white lettering, with flyers and sign-in sheets.\" class=\"wp-image-7584\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mark your calendar!  And it you&#8217;re out and about, get out your walking shoes.  (And remember the mask, hand sanitizer and social distancing&#8211;we want to keep everyone safe and healthy!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival<\/a>, one of my all-time favorite indie artisans&#8217; shows, has a show happening every weekend this month. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>AND&#8211;they have a December show planned, in one of their brand-new locations!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Patchwork Show Festivals are free-admission events, featuring a veritable cornucopia of jury-selected, handmade vendors.   They feel like, and are, a celebration of local creativity, with DIY activities, food trucks and live music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show,music stage with guitarist playing a solo next to a board advertising upcoming performers.\" class=\"wp-image-11154\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>And they&#8217;re starting off their November schedule in their newest location: the Farmers Market Lot in Old Town Tustin!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before I go into what to expect this weekend, here&#8217;s their at-a-glance schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li> <strong>Tustin, Saturday and Sunday, November 6th and 7th.<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>        Hours: 10 am &#8211; 4 pm PST, at 245 El Camino Real, between 2nd and 3rd Streets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong> Long Beach, Saturday and Sunday, November 13th and 14th. <\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>       Hours: 10 am &#8211; 4 pm PST, at Marine Stadium, Bayshore Avenue and Appian Way.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong> Santa Rosa, Saturday and Sunday, November 20th and 21st. <\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>       Hours: 10 am &#8211; 4 pm PST, at Old Courthouse Square between 3rd and 4th Streets.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>San Francisco, Saturday, November 27th (Small Business Saturday!)<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>      Hours: 10 am &#8211; 4 pm PST, at Westfield San Francisco Center, 865 Market Street, top floor, under the historic dome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>AND<\/strong>&#8211;if you can&#8217;t make it on Thanksgiving weekend, Patchwork Show returns to the Westfield San Francisco Center on <strong>Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th, 10 am &#8211; 4 pm PST<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" alt=\"Guests browse outdoor tents under a blue sky with puffy white clouds at Patchwork Show Santa Ana.\" class=\"wp-image-2237\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A look at the Tustin show<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Now&#8211;how about this weekend?  What will you see in Tustin, if you go to the first show of the Christmas 2021 shopping season?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to all the talented makers offering their wares, you&#8217;ll get to expand your DIY talents, in three workshops: pin press, fall succulents and rag dolls.   And small creatives will have their imaginations captivated with Kids&#8217; Storytime (Saturday only, according to Dear Handmade Life&#8217;s &#8220;events&#8221; page for the Tustin show) and Patchwork Junior!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile: the shopping.   Clothing, jewelry, art, ceramics, home goods, apothecary items and more, are among the treasures you&#8217;ll find.   I personally love the scented soaps, unique earrings and woodworking I&#8217;ve seen in the past, but you&#8217;re certain to find your own favorites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"Shoppers brows tables and tents at Patchwork Show Santa Ana.\" class=\"wp-image-9755\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Should you get hungry from all the shopping, their map lists both a pizza truck and Italian ice&#8211;admittedly, if I could go, you&#8217;d probably see me in line for both!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show&#8217;s website<\/a> advises that they are following both government and local regulations for masking, social distancing and all other protocols in place at the time of the shows.   Think safety, and if you don&#8217;t feel well, please plan to stay home.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you&#8217;re in excellent health, taking precautions and out and about, Patchwork Show&#8217;s website also encourages you to stop by during both days of the festival.  They&#8217;ll have different  onsite, each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg\" alt=\"Guests enter a white tent canopy with &quot;Patchwork Enter&quot; on their ways to the exhibiting tents at Patchwork Show Long Beach.\" class=\"wp-image-11160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>An overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If I wrote about all the fun facts behind Patchwork Show, you&#8217;d BE here till Christmas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;ll just tell you that it all started with a small, 25-vendor Christmastime craft show in Santa Ana in 2007.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/random-nicole-resized-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"465\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/random-nicole-resized-too.jpg\" alt=\"Artist Nicole Stevenson, Patchwork Arts and Crafts Festival co-founder\" class=\"wp-image-321\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/random-nicole-resized-too.jpg 465w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/random-nicole-resized-too-232x300.jpg 232w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Dear Handmade Life CEO\/Creative Director Nicole Stevenson<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Since then, talented artist Nicole Stevenson, CEO and Creative Director of parent company <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/\">Dear Handmade Life<\/a>, has expanded her brand into curating events, education and community for creatives.   Annually, Dear Handmade Life hosts &#8220;Craftcation&#8221;, a week-long crafts and business workshop.  I know of no other event like this, and keep promising myself I&#8217;m going, once we can say &#8220;goodbye&#8221; to COVID, once and for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And this summer, Dear Handmade Life also premiered their Camp DHL Virtual Summit!  I don&#8217;t have specific facts yet, but let&#8217;s hope it becomes an annual event.  If you, like me, can&#8217;t quite stop isolating from the virus just yet, this would be a fantastic Christmas gift to give someone special&#8211;including yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Guests enter the DIY crafts area at Patchwork Show Santa Ana.\" class=\"wp-image-9763\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>And&#8211;a quick look forward<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Of note, for the upcoming Patchwork Shows: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Long Beach edition is the largest of the Patchwork Show festivals.    It features more than 250 makers, junior artisans, musicians and other talented creatives.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Santa Rosa show will have more than 100+ vemdors, the DIY crafts stations will include a DIY ornament workshop on Saturday only. AND <a href=\"http:\/\/www.downtownsantarosa.org\/winterlights\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/www.downtownsantarosa.org\/winterlights\">you can book ice skating!<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>AND, the big news&#8211;if you plan on attending either of the shows in San Francisco, you can stay overnight at the Aciom Hotel, right across the street from where the show&#8217;s happening, if you&#8217;d like (this is optional) and they have pet-friendly rooms!  Here&#8217;s the<a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/san-francisco\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/san-francisco\/\"> link for information <\/a>about their special Patchwork Show rates.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Enjoy,  and stay safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=15359\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13847\">SPAA Celebrates the Season<\/a>  November 13, 2019<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_13851\" style=\"width: 398px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=13851\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-13851\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13851\" class=\"size-full wp-image-13851\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/SPAA-Farmers-Market11-1-e1573683522922.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"388\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-13851\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>San Pedro Art Association wants to add fun to your Christmas shopping season.<\/p>\n<p>Along with creativity, the sound of seagulls as you shop, and a wonderful sense of discovery.<\/p>\n<p>The talented artists of SPAA will be displaying their wares, as you see here, every Friday from now till Christmas, at their brand-new Holiday Farmer&#8217;s Market booth!<\/p>\n<p>This could mean: a unique, handcrafted silver necklace for your favorite niece.\u00a0 Or handcrafted Christmas ornaments for your &#8220;Secret Santa&#8221; pal.\u00a0 Or a breathtaking seascape for <em>you<\/em>&#8211;just because you couldn&#8217;t resist it!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=13850\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-13850\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-13850\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/SPAA-new1-e1573683332145.jpg\" alt=\"San Pedro Art Association banner, with graphic of a bridge ovver the ocean and the words, &quot;Art on the Edge&quot;\" width=\"600\" height=\"242\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>SPAA has been serving artists since 1936.\u00a0 Every summer, they offer their &#8220;Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition and Exhibition&#8221; at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>.\u00a0 They offer art classes (jewelry design and photography instruction are currently on their website).\u00a0 And they host special events, such as their &#8220;First Thursday Free Guided Artwalk Tour&#8221;, on a regular basis.<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ll have more information on their wares next week, after their inaugural &#8220;Holiday Farmer&#8217;s Market Booth&#8221; this Friday afternoon.\u00a0 But you may like to come down, investigate and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving, a little early.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>San Pedro Artists&#8217; Association hosts their &#8220;Farmers Market Holiday Booth&#8221; every Friday in November and December, from 9 am to 2 pm in front of the Grand Annex, 434 West 6th Street, west of South Mesa Street, in San Pedro.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13847\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13694\">A &#8220;Crafty&#8221; Shopping Roundup<\/a>  October 29, 2019<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11154\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11154\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11154\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show,music stage\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>&#8220;You give the <em>best<\/em> gifts!&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Imagine hearing that when someone you love opens a package this Christmas season.<\/p>\n<p>Buying &#8220;indie&#8221; is often the fastest route to that kind of a fun response.\u00a0 With that in mind, here are a roundup of upcoming crafts shows you might like to visit!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11160\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11160\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11160\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/best-patchwork-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show<\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Originally started in Santa Ana in 2008, Patchwork Show has seen some exciting growth!\u00a0\u00a0 I love their selection of unique jewelry, cards and woodworking especially, but there are lots of other treasures there for the finding.\u00a0 Larger shows normally include free entertainment, workshops, and food trucks.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11149\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11149\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11149\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>For Christmas shopping this year, they have five different upcoming shows, as follows:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Oakland<\/strong> &#8211; November 2 &#8211; Jack London Square, Broadway and Water Street, 11-5 pm<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ventura<\/strong> &#8211; November 3 &#8211;\u00a0 Ventura Fairgrounds, Santa Cruz Hall, 10 West Harbor Boulevard, 11 am-5 pm<\/p>\n<p><strong>Santa Rosa<\/strong> &#8211; November 10 &#8211; Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Hall of Flowers,,\u00a0 1350 Bennett Valley Road, 11 am-5 pm<\/p>\n<p><strong>Long Beach<\/strong> &#8211; November 17 &#8211; Marine Stadium, Appian Way at Bayshore, 11 am -5 pm.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Santa Ana<\/strong> &#8211;\u00a0 December 1 &#8211; Artists Village, 2nd and Sycamore, 11 am -5 pm.<\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8570\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Fair sign on a fence with tens beyond it\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope: An Indie Artisan Fair<\/a><\/h2>\n<p>They&#8217;re all about the ways design reflects local culture, with their juried show.\u00a0 Visitors get to take part in workshops, both free and low-cost.\u00a0 And they&#8217;re multi-city, reflecting the design and maker communities of both Pasadena and Denver.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8574\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8574\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8574\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-1-e1447482780792.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><strong>Pasadena &#8211; <\/strong>November 16th and 17th<strong> &#8211; <\/strong>Central Park, Old Pasadena, 275 South Raymond Avenue, 10 am &#8211; 4 pm.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Denver<\/strong> &#8211; December 14th and 15th, Stanley Marketplace, throughout the entire shopping complex, 11 am &#8211; 7 pm.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_13777\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=13777\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-13777\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13777\" class=\"size-full wp-image-13777\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/TCG-e1572319162434.jpg\" alt=\"Snowman surrounded by snow-covered trees against a red background with white lettering advertising Torrance Craftsmens Guild's 50th Annnual Arts and Crafts Fall Faire\" width=\"600\" height=\"393\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-13777\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Happy Golden Anniversary to these talented artists and artisans!\u00a0 2019 marks their fiftieth show.\u00a0 I&#8217;ve loved their exhibitors&#8217; gorgeous patchwork quilts, Christmas ornaments and dichroic glass jewelry, especially, in past visits.\u00a0 But you&#8217;ll probably find a lot of other new special fun things,\u00a0 when you visit.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, they have door prizes and opportunity drawings (opportunity drawings partially fund their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/scholarships\/\">scholarship fund<\/a> for high-school seniors), as well as refreshments and music by talented &#8220;DJ Ozzie&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Torrance<\/strong> &#8211; November 16th and 17th, Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Madrona and Torrance Boulevard, 10 am &#8211; 4 pm.<\/p>\n<p>Admission is free to all of the above shows.\u00a0 In addition, Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s show offers free parking.<\/p>\n<p>These are just three of the possibilities for &#8220;shopping indie&#8221; and supporting small-business entrepreneurs as we get into Christmas season, 2019!\u00a0 I&#8217;ll keep you posted on more.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13694\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13684\">&#8220;Lollipop Lane&#8221; Ready for Shopping<\/a>  October 18, 2019<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_13690\" style=\"width: 408px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=13690\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-13690\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13690\" class=\"size-full wp-image-13690\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Lollipop-Lane-e1571495162449.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"398\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-13690\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TorranceCraftsmensGuild\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild,<\/a> and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Uh-oh&#8211;craft show alert!<\/p>\n<p>And if you&#8217;re anything like me, you&#8217;re asking, &#8220;<em>Where?&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, October 19th, the answer is, &#8220;Lakewood&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s the date of the City of Lakewood&#8217;s 27th annual &#8220;Lollipop Lane Craft Boutique&#8221;, in Mayfair Park!<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Lollipop Lane&#8221; will be giving everyone a chance to get some early Christmas shopping in, at a time when we can actually enjoy the experience.\u00a0 For six hours, they&#8217;ll have more than 100 quality artists and crafters on hand, showcasing their work.<\/p>\n<p>Just a few of the exhibitors you might see, according to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TorranceCraftsmensGuild\/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&amp;eid=ARC7XjTVuYZ82_XRI4J_SDXlSVwdXahzW5e3bX1AnLSJiersRX1RqvTO8SjBkLyOdPgO6hrnHWB0ogvK\">Torrance Craftsmens Guild&#8217;s Facebook page<\/a>, include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.milliezaynsoap.com\/\">Millie Zayn<\/a>, with her handcrafted soaps and bath products.\u00a0 (Ohhh, that lavender!)\u00a0 Or Three Pine Hill, for jewelry with a delicate, chain-mail look (I love the Turkish silver flowers, but this will be your choice!).\u00a0 And if you&#8217;d like to talk to an L.A. County Fair First Prize-winning needle artist, say &#8220;hi&#8221; to Linda Jensen, of My Blue Heaven Knits!\u00a0 Linda <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LindasCrafts?&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=Search_US_DSA_GGL_Categories_Crafts&amp;utm_ag=Knitting&amp;utm_custom1=20b02d7b-abd5-422c-b25c-2a3104257ec5&amp;utm_content=go_1875485221_71100487118_357965663233_aud-487156275557:dsa-395000944989_c_&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwxaXtBRBbEiwAPqPxcMu-FWyd9wsfouBH4wUwWMQ5CYLfNW63M-G2LXh00Q15SDAo4FFthxoCresQAvD_BwE\">designs her own patterns for clothing and accessories<\/a>, and tomorrow&#8217;s your chance to see what she&#8217;s been working on lately!<\/p>\n<p>Time to browse and choose just the right gift, unique gifts made with love and a chance to support topnotch artists and artisans?\u00a0 It just doesn&#8217;t get any better than that.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>The 27th Annual &#8220;Lollipop Lane Craft Boutique&#8221; happens this Saturday, October 19th, from 9 am to 3 pm in Mayfair Park, at Clark Avenue and South Street, in the city of Lakewood.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, and there will be a free shuttle running every 15 minutes from the east parking lot at Lakewood City Hall.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em> <\/strong><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13684\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13439\">Bittersweet Lavender<\/a>  June 13, 2019<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile<strong>\u00ae<\/strong><\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_13446\" style=\"width: 404px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=13446\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-13446\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13446\" class=\"size-full wp-image-13446\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/ovlf-2019-main-poster-e1560388021355.jpg\" alt=\"Poster of a lavender convertible in a green field wiht a mountain range in the background and lavender before it, advertising &quot;Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, Saturday June 29, 2019, 10 -5 pm&quot;\" width=\"394\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-13446\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Poster by Tom Hardcastle, copyright 2019, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a> is coming to an end.\u00a0\u00a0 <em>Unless<\/em>&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>After sixteen years, OVLF hosts its final Lavender Festival in Ojai&#8217;s Libbey Park on Saturday, June 29th.\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have more than 100 vendors, live music, speakers, games and prizes.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, and there&#8217;s a free shuttle service.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9784\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9784\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9784\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg\" alt=\"Lavender sign with sprigs of lavender adverisies &quot;Ojai Valley Lavender Festival&quot;\" width=\"600\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-300x263.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-342x300.jpg 342w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And lavender will be in evidence in every type of use&#8211;from lemonade to ice cream to hand soaps.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s because the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival is always held on the final Saturday in June, to coincide with Ojai&#8217;s peak lavender bloom.\u00a0 Think &#8220;gorgeous&#8221; and go several steps beyond that, and you&#8217;ll have a pretty clear mental picture.<\/p>\n<p>Now think &#8220;talented&#8221;&#8211;and go several steps beyond <em>that.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9785\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9785\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg\" alt=\"Shoppers browse tented exhibits in Libbey Park during Ojai Valley Lavender Festival\" width=\"600\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-500x280.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p>So, why does 2019 mark the final Lavender Festival?<\/p>\n<p>Certainly, nonprofit Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, Inc., a\/k\/a OVLF, has never lost its passion for the production and uses of lavender.\u00a0 Their 2019 festival will feature a wide array of lavender honey, aromatherapy and beauty products (their soap is a favorite!), decadent desserts and libations with lavender.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9786\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9786\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9786\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg\" alt=\"Woman looks at bunches of lavender for sale in a booth at Libbey Park during Ojai Valley Lavender Festival\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Nor have they lost their interest in showcasing the gifts of artisans and musicians, and the passion of local community groups for their causes.<\/p>\n<p>Lavender-inspired products this year will include jewelry, clothing, pottery, candles, and the list goes on!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7772\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7772\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7772\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/onstage3-e1560389855341.jpg\" alt=\"Musicians play guitar and bass in the music pavilion at Ojai Valley Lavender Festival 2016\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the festival will host an all-day lineup of fantastic musicians, starting right off at 10 am with Richard Kaller on Libbey Park&#8217;s front patio.\u00a0\u00a0 At the music gazebo, you&#8217;ll get to hear the Old-Time Fiddlers, Lynn Mullins and Coyote Creek and Cindy Kalmenson and the Lucky Ducks.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7696\" style=\"width: 411px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7696\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7696\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7696\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7696\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by_Diana-Hatcher-e1560438689230.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"401\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7696\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>But&#8211;the amazing job OVLF has been doing for sixteen years has been the result of an all-volunteer team.\u00a0 Led by Executive Director Neil Friedrichsen, President Cindy Mullins and Vice President Joy Brown, that team is now ready to retire.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;OVLF&#8217;s small, hard-working team has come to the difficult decision to dissolve the non-<br \/>\nprofit, end the festivals, and focus individual energies elsewhere,&#8221; the group explained in a press release.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7705\" style=\"width: 535px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7705\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7705\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7705\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7705\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-growing-lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819302348.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7705\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Ideally, OVLF had hoped new members would come forward to join the organization and lead it into the future. But, alas, that has not been the case. So this year OVLF will host its final Ojai Valley Lavender Festival on June 29th.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>BUT&#8230;but.<\/p>\n<p>Do you know anyone who&#8217;d be interested in assuming the &#8220;lavender mantel&#8221;?\u00a0 As in, a group or organization who would like to put their hearts and souls into keeping this fantastic event going?<\/p>\n<p>If so, please have them contact Cindy Mullins at ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org to learn more.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7693\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7693\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7693\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7693\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Art-Pavilion-by-Diana_Hatcher-e1434818141143.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Now, upfront&#8211;this will be a LOT of work.\u00a0 All the setup, coordination, planning and cleanup, that go along with hosting an annual event of this magnitude (OVLF tells us the festival draws more than 5,000 visitors to Ojai annually!) would be a labor of love.\u00a0 And no matter how much team members love the Festival, a hard truth is that even the most talented people have only two hands.<\/p>\n<p>But if you have a committed small group who love crafts, community and artists, this could be an opportunity for you&#8211;and for them.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, if you have time on Saturday, June 29th, how about running by Ojai and showing them some &#8220;lavender love&#8221; as they host their final festival?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9786\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9786\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9786\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg\" alt=\"Woman looks at bunches of lavender for sale in a booth at Libbey Park during Ojai Valley Lavender Festival\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>OVLF, we&#8217;re keeping a good thought for you!\u00a0 Thank you for a fantastic fifteen years of crafts, celebration and lavender.\u00a0 Hope your 16th Lavender Festival is a great one&#8211;and that someone steps up to keep it going.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><em>The sixteenth annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival happens Saturday, June 29th, from 10 am to 5 pm in Libbey Park, 210 South Signal Street, south of East Ojai Avenue.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, and a free shuttle is available.<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=13439\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12889\">Looking Forward to Christmas&#8211;and a Special Event<\/a>  December 12, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12896\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12896\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12896\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0016-Copy-e1540653947305.jpg\" alt=\"Tamiza Teja displays two Christmas ornaments for sale in her artisan bakery\/bourique\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0016-Copy-e1540653947305.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0016-Copy-e1540653947305-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>Gifted chef\/artisan Tamiza Teja has a special Christmas memory to share.<\/p>\n<p>But besides looking back, she&#8217;s also looking towards the future&#8211;and a fun Christmas custom which her family observes, every year.<\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-12889-3\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/Audio\/tamiza_favorite_memory.mp3?_=3\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/Audio\/tamiza_favorite_memory.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/Audio\/tamiza_favorite_memory.mp3<\/a><\/audio><\/p>\n<p>I won&#8217;t spoil it by saying what!\u00a0 But I will tell you that she has something else special to which everyone can look forward, this Thursday, December 13th.<\/p>\n<p>At her artisan bakery\/&#8221;foodie&#8221; gift boutique <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tamizastreats.com\/\">Tamiza&#8217;s Treats<\/a>, nonprofit Delta Delta Delta Socal Sleighbell is hosting a Vendor Night Fundraiser this Thursday evening, December 13th, from 6:30 to 9:30.<\/p>\n<p>And not only will it be a great opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts&#8211;it&#8217;s for a fantastic cause.<\/p>\n<p>Vendor Night supports Children\u2019s Hospital Los Angeles Hematology &amp; Oncology Research.\u00a0 On hand will be some incredible women entrepreneurs, with their one-of-a-kind handcrafted creations.<\/p>\n<p>Like whom, for example?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11645\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11645\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11645\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ellie Lieberman in her purple dress with fairy wings\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Well, like Ellie Lieberman, for starters.\u00a0 This gifted author\/craftswoman writes starkly beautiful literature and crafts enchanting fairy doors and worlds through her small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Or, perhaps like Rachez Miller.\u00a0 I haven&#8217;t had the pleasure of meeting her yet, but her website says she started her homebased artisan candle company, Shay Candles, in 2012.\u00a0\u00a0 She offers hand-poured candles and handmade incense.<\/p>\n<p>And like Jessica Silagy, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/knuckleheadranch?fbclid=IwAR1KE34jSHZsXrKBWDn6zmRDOyDKoXKz_5KnyryN33FnVWERi-65C_-Kys4\">Knucklehead Ranch<\/a>.\u00a0 What <em>can&#8217;t<\/em> this talented artist do?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=6358\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-6358\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6358\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/jessica2-e1446960473309.jpg\" alt=\"Jessica Silagy near her table of graphic prints and cards\" width=\"434\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Her graphics include pinup art and handmade cards, and one of my personal favorites of hers is the pair of fabric custom Christmas trees she crafted, about two years ago.\u00a0 Currently, she&#8217;s specializing in handcrafted pet gifts, which include handmade catnip toys and dog bandanas that&#8217;ll give your favorite pooch a seasonal sparkle!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11385\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11385\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11385\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11.jpg\" alt=\"Barb Lieberman with purple flower painting\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And&#8211;beware if you love great books.\u00a0 Artist\/author Barbara Lieberman, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pipeandthimble.com\/\">Pipe &amp; Thimble Mobile Bookstore<\/a>, will be on hand.\u00a0\u00a0 More than once, I&#8217;ve <em>tried <\/em>to read just <em>one <\/em>chapter of one of her latest books!\u00a0\u00a0 (And if you&#8217;re lucky, she might also have brought her &#8220;thumbles&#8221;, which are adorable needle-felted elves, with different seasonal themes!\u00a0\u00a0 I love my Christmas one, which I bought last year!)<\/p>\n<p>And these are just some of the vendors who&#8217;ll be there this Thursday evening.\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;d love to see you.\u00a0 And, oh, yes.\u00a0 Hope you&#8217;re immune to temptation&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12903\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12903\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12903\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0083-e1544674854977.jpg\" alt=\"Artisan cookies, breads and candies on a table lining the wall at Tamiza's Treats\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8230;no, on second thought, I wouldn&#8217;t want you and your Christmas gift recipients to miss Tamiza&#8217;s artisan fudge, gourmet popcorn and those incredible cookies to which she adds her own magic as a professional chef!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12906\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12906\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12906\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0086-e1544675179392.jpg\" alt=\"Tamiza holds up cooky-cutter-inspired Christmas earrings\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, don&#8217;t forget to ask Tamiza what she&#8217;s been crafting lately!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12908\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12908\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12908\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0056-e1544675539327.jpg\" alt=\"Purple crocheted cover with green ribbon on a wine bottle with two others nearby on shelf and &quot;Artisan-Inspired Wine Bottle Gift Bag&quot; sign\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12909\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12909\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12909\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/DSC_0047-e1544675894727.jpg\" alt=\"Tamiza points to beads on food-themed jewelry she created in her store\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>As you&#8217;ll recall from our <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12432\">October interview<\/a>, in addition to her gourmet creations, she designs foodie-themed jewelry, creates greeting cards, and has probably been inspired to make at least half a dozen other types of food-inspired gift items since we last spoke!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>Nonprofit Delta Delta Delta SoCal Sleighbell hosts their Vendor Night Fundraiser this Thursday evening, December 13th, from 6:30 to 9:30 at Tamiza&#8217;s Treats, <\/em><em>3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q, in Torrance.\u00a0 Tamiza\u2019s Treats is located on PCH and Madison, right near Kinecta.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12889\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12852\">SPAA Celebrates the Season<\/a>  December 2, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12853\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12853\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12853\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12853\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12853\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/46183042_354016558698374_5574771201206648832_n-e1543722057727.jpg\" alt=\"Poster about SPAA Holiday Craft Fair and Interfaith Toy Drive, with decorated tree branches and wrapped packages\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12853\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;re walking down the street, when something festive catches your eye.<\/p>\n<p>In a parking lot are tables, covered with white cloths and decorated with garlands, greenery and Christmas ornaments.<\/p>\n<p>As you get closer, you see a table on which sterling-silver handcrafted necklaces dangle from gilded branches.\u00a0 Handmade rag dolls of varying sizes smile from a second table.\u00a0\u00a0 The third is covered with pencil drawings that evoke street scenes, animals and people in just a few deft lines.<\/p>\n<p>Further along, a woman has set up an easel.\u00a0 Deftly, she mixes colors.\u00a0 As her brush moves, a seascape comes to life.<\/p>\n<p>This moment of reverie has been brought to you by San Pedro Art Association.\u00a0 But you don&#8217;t have to limit it to your imagination.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8127\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8127\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8127\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/SPAA-new1.jpg\" alt=\"Banner &quot;San Pedro Art Association: Art on the Edge&quot;\" width=\"700\" height=\"282\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Today, Sunday, December 2, SPAA hosts a &#8220;Holiday Craft Fair and Harbor Interfaith Toy Drive&#8221;, in the B of A parking lot on Pacific Avenue, near 10th Street in San Pedro.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s your chance to find unique handcrafted gifts for all the special people on your Christmas list.\u00a0\u00a0 As well as to help make a child&#8217;s Christmas magical, by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to donate to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.harborinterfaith.org\/\">Harbor Interfaith Services<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>As mentioned in earlier posts, San Pedro Art Association has been serving artists, and the arts, since 1936.\u00a0 Every summer, they host a &#8220;Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition&#8221; for the local schools.\u00a0 (Every entrant receives art supplies, there are prizes for the top winners, and the students&#8217; work is professionally framed and displayed at CRAFTED!)\u00a0\u00a0 They also offer classes and monthly &#8220;First Thursday&#8221; free guided art walks.<\/p>\n<p>And here&#8217;s an early Christmas gift: SPAA is now planning to offer craft fairs on a regular basis!\u00a0 Starting in 2019, they&#8217;ll host three a year, according to SPAA Secretary Bill Boisselle-Schalaba!\u00a0 (They held their first one this past spring, and it was great!)<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>San Pedro Art Association&#8217;s &#8220;Holiday Craft Fair and Harbor Interfaith Toy Drive&#8221; happens Sunday, December 2, from 10 am to 5 pm in the B of A parking lot at 951 South Pacific Avenue (near 10th Street) in San Pedro.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12852\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12834\">Muir Beach&#8217;s Tradition By the Sea<\/a>  December 1, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12837\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12837\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12837\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12837\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12837\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/fd0E9zlA-e1543633336110.jpeg\" alt=\"Original landscape of street in Muir Beach with ocean and mountain in the distance, by Tom Soltesz\" width=\"600\" height=\"453\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12837\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Painting \u00a92018 by Tom Soltesz, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Getting to Christmas shop by the beach is something special.<\/p>\n<p>And the <a href=\"http:\/\/muirbeachartsfair.com\/\">Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair<\/a> has been proving that for nearly 50 years.<\/p>\n<p>This weekend, they&#8217;re just about to prove it again.<\/p>\n<p>This year&#8217;s Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair happens this Saturday and Sunday, December 1 and 2.\u00a0 And it&#8217;s a Christmastime tradition in the quaint town of Muir Beach, which is just over six miles from Mill Valley, in Northern California.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12841\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12841\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12841\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12841\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12841\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Kasey-Corbit-e1543634331528.jpg\" alt=\"White seashell jewelry ensemble dangles from a seaside plant stalk\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12841\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo \u00a92018, Kasey Corbit, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Started in the 1970s in by a community group that became the Muir Beach Quilters, the fair started in the best way: as a big community Christmas party!\u00a0\u00a0 And according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/muirbeachartsfair.com\/history.html\">event website<\/a>, this was an event created with three goals in mind: to raise money to build a community center, to give local artisans a place to showcase their creations, once annually&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&#8230;and to throw a big community Christmas party, of course!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12844\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12844\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12844\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12844\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12844\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Debra-Allen-e1543636047783.jpg\" alt=\"Star ornaments with multiple &quot;petals&quot;, painted a silvery white\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12844\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph \u00a92018, Debra Allen, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Local residents kept the tradition alive once the Muir Beach Quilters discontinued it, in 2013.\u00a0 And the Holiday Arts Fair&#8217;s 2018 edition will feature\u00a0 nearly 40 artisans from throughout the Bay Area.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll get to see hand-made pottery, wreaths, miniature wooden robots, ornaments crafted from both glass and wood, and gifts from the garden&#8211;and that&#8217;s just a partial selection.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12845\" style=\"width: 370px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12845\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12845\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12845\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12845\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Janet-Tumpich-Moore-e1543636177239.jpg\" alt=\"Glass suncatchers with multicolored shapes\" width=\"360\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12845\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo \u00a92018 by Janet Tumpich Moore, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>At the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, organizations that support the local community are given a free table.\u00a0 Look for the MBVFA,\u00a0 selling their logo clothing and hats, for kids and us &#8220;big kids&#8221;, to benefit the Fire Department.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, the Muir Beach Quilters are going to display their best!\u00a0 The Holiday Arts Fair&#8217;s press release says they&#8217;ll have &#8220;quilts, dolls and scarves&#8221;.\u00a0 But I&#8217;m going to guess that sentence doesn&#8217;t come close to doing them justice!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12846\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12846\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12846\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12846\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12846\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Julie-Smith-e1543636278133.jpg\" alt=\"Jars of amber handcrafted honey sit next to a walnut cake\" width=\"600\" height=\"589\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12846\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo \u00a92018, Julie Smith, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>In addition, the Fair gives next generation of crafters and artisans the opportunity to sell their work, at the Junior Artisans\/Kids table.<\/p>\n<p>Also, new this year, visitors to the Fair will get to experience glassblowing.<\/p>\n<p>Want more?\u00a0 OK.\u00a0 During the Holiday Arts Fair,\u00a0 Muir Beach&#8217;s Cafe Q offers free coffee and tea for all attendees.\u00a0 They also have a balcony overlooking the ocean, for you to relax and get a good look at all the cool treasures you found!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12848\" style=\"width: 409px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12848\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12848\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12848\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12848\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/p-11-e1543636887545.jpg\" alt=\"Wreath made of succulent plants\" width=\"399\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12848\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo \u00a9MB Garden Club, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And here&#8217;s a link to the <a href=\"http:\/\/muirbeachartsfair.com\/slideshow.html\">Artist Gallery<\/a>,\u00a0if you&#8217;d like to look a little further beforehand.\u00a0 Many of the previous exhibiting artists will be back this year.\u00a0 (And I&#8217;m wishing I could run my hands over that gorgeous inlaid woodwork!)<\/p>\n<h5><em><strong>The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair runs from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday, December 1, and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday, December 2, at The Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, southwest of Shoreline Highway.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong> <\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12834\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12523\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; Adds Fun to Christmas Shopping<\/a>  November 10, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12527\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12527\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12527\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12527\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Crowd-e1541888967305.jpg\" alt=\"Smiling shoppers walk among white tents in Pasadena's Central Park during Jackalope Pasadena\" width=\"600\" height=\"401\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12527\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shoppers peruse the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>If\u00a0 you follow folklore, a &#8220;jackalope&#8221; is a mythic creature.<\/p>\n<p>But, if you love juried indie crafts shows, with lots of opportunities to visit with talented artisans, you&#8217;ll have a wholly different definition.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s because the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/pasadena\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/a> is just about to make its autumn appearance in Pasadena.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8570\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Fair sign on a fence with tens beyond it\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Next Saturday and Sunday, November 17th and 18th, Old Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park will host more than 200 booths.\u00a0 At each will be a unique, and highly creative, line of handcrafted specialties.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12535\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12535\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12535\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12535\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12535\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/yum-e1541893291446.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12535\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lauraannsjams.com\/\">Laura Ann&#8217;s Jams<\/a> sets up at the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>If you have an entrepreneur on your Christmas list, she may very well love the personal organizers and desktop calendars <a href=\"http:\/\/www.hadronepoch.com\/\">Hadron Epoch<\/a> is offering.\u00a0 Need a gift for a fashionista?\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lalamel-la.com\/\">Lalamel<\/a> has some breathtakingly-beautiful silk sheath dresses that just make me wish I had the body to wear them!\u00a0 Got a &#8220;foodie&#8221;&#8211;or two or three&#8211;in mind for something special?\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wallflowerchocolate.com\/\">Wallflower Chocolate Company<\/a> offers American craft chocolate made from scratch.\u00a0 (However, good luck, keeping anyone from getting into this before you can give it to your intended recipients!)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12533\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12533\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12533\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12533\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12533\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/jewelry-e1541893126545.jpg\" alt=\"Couple look at jewelry made of antique keys during Pasadena Jackalope Fair\" width=\"600\" height=\"401\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12533\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/TheKeyHistoric\">The Key Historic<\/a> at the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And these are just three of the artisans scheduled to be on hand at Jackalope Pasadena, which runs from 10 am to 4 pm, both days.\u00a0 (I won&#8217;t even talk about the jewelry vendors, whose work is enough to tempt anyone!\u00a0 Suffice it to say that during my previous visit to Jackalope Pasadena, I wasn&#8217;t going to buy earrings&#8230;wasn&#8217;t going to buy earrings&#8230;well, I&#8217;d just take a look&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Okay, okay!\u00a0 So I <em>did<\/em> come home with three new pairs.\u00a0 C&#8217;est la vie.)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12536\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12536\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12536\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12536\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/yoga-e1541893396931.jpeg\" alt=\"Man leads a group in yoga stretches in Central Park, Pasadena.\" width=\"600\" height=\"358\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12536\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>In addition, each day of the Jackalope Pasadena Indie Arts Fair starts with a free yoga class, at 10 am, courtesy of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yogaworks.com\/\">YogaWorks<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Also, DIY crafting opportunities will be available, for all ages, all weekend long.\u00a0\u00a0 Among the creative spaces offering a chance to design something special are <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bullseyeglass.com\/\">Bullseye Glass Resource Center<\/a>, which will be doing glassmaking demos, and Kidsart Pasadena, who will host a kids&#8217; coloring table.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12531\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12531\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12531\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12531\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12531\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/guitarist-e1541892797322.jpg\" alt=\"Blonde woman plays guitar under a tree with Jackalope tents in the background\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12531\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And prepare to kick back and enjoy the music!\u00a0\u00a0 Acoustic musicians will perform throughout the weekend, and you may want to grab something tempting from one of the food trucks, take a break and just be a part of a great time.<\/p>\n<p>Before I wrap this up, here&#8217;s some more good news.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12530\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12530\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12530\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12530\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12530\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/friends-dont-let-friends-e1541893493801.png\" alt=\"Sara Diederich and Melissa Shipley in long dresses with sign that says, &quot;Friends don't let friends shop at chain stores&quot;, near Jackalope Pasadena tents at sunset\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12530\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Jackalope Arts, which started with a Pasadena show in April, 2015, now has a new California location!\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be coming to Burbank in May of 2019, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/burbank\/\">website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, if you happen to be in the Denver area, mark your calendar!\u00a0 Their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/denver\/\">December show&#8217;s coming up<\/a>, on December 8th and 9th.<\/p>\n<h5><em>The Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair returns to Pasadena on Saturday, November 17th and Sunday, November 18th.\u00a0 Hours are 10 am to 4 pm, both days, in Old Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, located at Del Mar and Raymond.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12523\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12476\">A Favorite Way to Christmas Shop<\/a>  November 1, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12480\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12480\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12480\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Irvine-studio-arts-fair-e1541098956278.jpg\" alt=\"Ducks on a lake with white sand, green trees and blue sky\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a>Tomorrow evening, and all day Saturday, Irvine is hosting a unique Christmas shopping experience.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t expect a crowded mall, lines in the food court or clerks asking, &#8220;Are you a member of our (insert the name here) Special Group?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>But what you <em>can<\/em> expect: hand-blown glass, folk crafts, jewelry and music.\u00a0\u00a0 More than 100 gifted artists will be on hand.\u00a0 And, based on previous experience, the food will be excellent.<\/p>\n<p>All this and a duck pond, too.<\/p>\n<p>Where?\u00a0 The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cityofirvine.org\/irvine-fine-arts-center\">Irvine Fine Arts Center<\/a>, as they host their 36th Annual Holiday Faire.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_12484\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12484\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12484\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12484\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12484\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Holiday-Faire_Flyer1_sm-e1541100402770.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"397\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-12484\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Festivities start at 5 pm on Friday, and run till 9 pm.\u00a0 Then, on Saturday, they&#8217;re open from 9 am to 4 pm.<\/p>\n<p>We attended Irvine Fine Arts Center&#8217;s summer &#8220;Studio Arts Festival&#8221; last year, and fell in love with the setting <em>and<\/em> the variety and high quality of work on exhibit.\u00a0 There were both indoor and outdoor exhibits of just about every creative medium imaginable: pottery, dichroic glass, silver, gold, mahogany and cherry wood&#8230; (Yes, I came home with a bunch of new favorites!)<\/p>\n<p>And on the subject of wood, here are two artists we&#8217;re looking forward to seeing again.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11420\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11420\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11420\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11420\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11420\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda.jpg\" alt=\"Artist J. Michael Evans in his art booth at a craft fair, surrounded by his hand-turned wooden pens, platters and bowls\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Booth2588-by-Freda-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11420\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Self-taught wood artist J. Michael Evans crafts some luminous bowls, warm-looking pens and unique plates which he offers through his small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/fne414.wordpress.com\/ozarks-wood-n-stuff-gallery\/\">Ozarks Wood-N-Stuff<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 I especially like his satiny &#8220;Supele&#8221; square lidded bowl, which you can see in his &#8220;Gallery Slideshow&#8221;.\u00a0 And his wife, fellow artist Freda Nelson Evans, emails that he&#8217;ll have a number of new items available for the Holiday Faire.<\/p>\n<p>Freda, meanwhile, is an accomplished actress.\u00a0 Both she and Michael perform in the &#8220;Shepherd of the Hills&#8221; annual outdoor drama in Branson, Missouri.\u00a0 In addition, Freda portrays Mrs. Santa Claus at one of the local Missouri shopping areas, as well as a hotel.<\/p>\n<p>(Here is a <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11415\">link to my 2017 interview<\/a> with Michael, about his work!)<\/p>\n<p>Now, unlike many of the other artists&#8217; events and festivals mentioned on this site, the Irvine Holiday Faire does have an admission charge of $2.00 per attendee.\u00a0 That&#8217;s if you&#8217;re a &#8220;big kid&#8221;, as we are.\u00a0 Ages twelve and under get free admission, and parking is free.<\/p>\n<p>And I can&#8217;t think of a better way to support our local artists while picking up some gifts that are going to wow everybody at Christmastime!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h5>Irvine Fine Arts Center&#8217;s 36th Annual Holiday Faire happens Friday evening, November 2, from 5 pm to 9 pm, and Saturday, November 3, from 9 am to 4 pm, at the Irvine Fine Arts Center, 14321 Yale Avenue, near Walnut.<\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12476\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12408\">A &#8220;Harvest&#8221; of Craft Fairs<\/a>  September 23, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h6>\n<h6><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12411\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12411\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12411\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/pumpkins2-e1537581980733.jpg\" alt=\"Two orange pumpkins with green leaves on the vine lying in a brown harvest field\" width=\"600\" height=\"447\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<p>Autumn is here!\u00a0 And one of my favorite signs of autumn?\u00a0 The craft fairs!<\/p>\n<p>Some great ones are coming up.\u00a0 With Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas headed our way, now seems like an opportune time to give you the dates to mark your calendar.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s start off with&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12421\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12421\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12421\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/SPAA-new1.jpg\" alt=\"San Pedro Art Association banner on a wooden wall background\" width=\"600\" height=\"241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/SPAA-new1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/SPAA-new1-300x121.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Sunday, October 14<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/\">San Pedro Art Association<\/a> Craft Fair. 10 am to 5 pm at 10th and Pacific, between the Watercolor Society and the B of A, <strong>San Pedro<\/strong>.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/p>\n<p>So far,\u00a0 says SPAA Board Secretary Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, about a dozen artists and artisans have signed up.<\/p>\n<p>While that sounds like a small number, we had the opportunity to attend their first Spring Craft Fair, and were impressed with the high level of professionalism.\u00a0\u00a0 Bill says this pop-up will be &#8220;better&#8221; than last time, but the artists we met before were fantastic!<\/p>\n<p>So, for their Autumn Craft Fair, what might you see ?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12422\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12422\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12422\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Carlos-with-his-work-e1537656678502.jpg\" alt=\"Artist Carlos Boisselle displays his handcrafted jewelry at SPAA Spring Crafts Fair, San Pedro\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a>We know for a fact that you&#8217;ll get to admire some extremely cool jewelry, courtesy of talented artist\/artisan Carlos Boisselle (not sure if he&#8217;ll bring his his dreamlike watercolors, but we can certainly hope!).<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12423\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12423\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12423\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Carlos-2-e1537656843864.jpg\" alt=\"Artist Carlos Boisselle displays a sterling silver dolphin necklace on a chaing at SPAA Spring Craft Faire\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sterling silver and copper are among the metals in which Carlos crafts his jewelry.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12426\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12426\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12426\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Liz-with-her-work-in-El-Dorado-Park_edited-1-e1537658463788.jpg\" alt=\"Liz Stark displays two of her woodcrafted boxes in El Dorado Park\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a>Meanwhile, woodworker Liz Stark is similarly going to wow you with her handcrafted boxes.<\/p>\n<p>What <em>can&#8217;t<\/em> this gifted woman create, in wood?\u00a0 She makes furniture, jewelry boxes and takes custom orders.\u00a0 Her art involves lots of warm colors and contrasts, so that her media of paint and colored pencils just seem to glow, enhanced by her carving.<\/p>\n<p>(But be sure to check in with her early, if you have someone in mind for whom you&#8217;d like to order a special Christmas gift.\u00a0 Liz says\u00a0 she needs about a month&#8217;s lead time, depending on how complicated a design you have in mind.)<\/p>\n<p>Now, about <a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/\">San Pedro Art Association<\/a>&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12427\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12427\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12427\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cool-student-art2.jpg\" alt=\"Student art exhibit on the wall of CRAFTED under blackboard with &quot;San Pedro High School, Normont Elementary&quot; in chalk\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cool-student-art2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cool-student-art2-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Since 1936, SPAA has been supporting artists and art education.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Every summer, they host their &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/student-art-competition\/\">Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition<\/a>&#8221; at CRAFTED.\u00a0 Every entering student wins a prize, and gets to exhibit his or her work, all summer!<\/p>\n<p>In addition, SPAA offers classes.\u00a0 Jewelry design and photography classes are currently listed as available on their website!\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/events\/classes\/\">link for more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, let&#8217;s continue with&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11154\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11154\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11154\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show,music stage\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Saturday, November 3 &#8211;<\/strong> <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show Oakland Makers Festival<\/a>, Jack London Square, Broadway and Water Street, Oakland, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11148\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11148\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11148\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork Santa Ana 2015\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>DIY crafts areas, vendors, food trucks, music&#8211;a creative celebration doesn&#8217;t get much better!\u00a0 If this is anything like the Santa Ana and Long Beach Patchwork Shows I&#8217;ve attended in the past, good luck leaving without a bag.\u00a0 Or two.\u00a0 Or ten, filled with your new treasures.\u00a0 Unique earrings. handcrafted cards. terraria and ceramics have all tempted me there in the past.\u00a0 And be warned: the line for <a href=\"http:\/\/www.frontporchpops.com\/\">Front Porch Pops<\/a> (artisan popsicles!) tends to get long&#8211;deservedly so.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, Patchwork Show, the brainchild of Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell, is just kicking off its autumn appearances.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9898\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9898\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9898\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg\" alt=\"Attendees at Long Beach Patchwork Show tents\" width=\"600\" height=\"404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-300x202.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-446x300.jpg 446w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;ll be in Southern California, as well, for their<strong> Long Beach<\/strong> show on <strong>Sunday, November 18th, from 11 am to 5 pm.\u00a0 <\/strong>That location&#8217;s Long Beach Marine Stadium, 5255 East Paoli Way.<\/p>\n<p>Then, look for them to return to their first city,\u00a0<strong> Santa Ana, Sunday, November 25th from 11 am to 5 pm<\/strong>, at 125 North Broadway!\u00a0 And, of course, admission is free to all Patchwork Shows.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile: <em>how come a lot of our favorite shows keep happening at the same times?<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Arts and Crafts Faire Today&quot; sign under a white arch\" width=\"600\" height=\"342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-500x285.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">You guessed it&#8211;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a> hosts their &#8220;49th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; on <strong>Saturday and Sunday, November 17th and 18th<\/strong>.\u00a0 Look for them to fill the rooms and plaza of the <strong>Torrance Cultural Arts Center, at Madrona and Torrance Boulevard,<\/strong> with dichroic-glass jewelry, Christmas ornaments, wind chimes, one-of-a-kind photography, handcrafted dolls, ceramics, candles and a lot more.<\/p>\n<p>Like SPAA, Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild is all about serving and encouraging artists.\u00a0 Every year, TCG awards scholarships to high school seniors with an interest in the areas of arts and crafts.\u00a0 The Holiday Faire and their Spring Faire raise scholarship funds.<\/p>\n<p>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s &#8220;49th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; runs from <strong>9 am to 4 pm,<\/strong> both Saturday and Sunday, and admission is free.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12408\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12001\">Stand By for Creativity<\/a>  April 20, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10027\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10027\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10027\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"473\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1-300x237.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1-381x300.jpg 381w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Springtime has a firm foothold on us now. \u00a0 You know what <em>that<\/em> means.<\/p>\n<p>Yup.\u00a0 Lots of very cool spring crafts-oriented events to put on the calendar.\u00a0\u00a0 And a bunch of them are coming up.<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m excited to tell you, a brand-new one happens <em>this<\/em> weekend.<a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12096\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12096\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/SPAA-new1.jpg\" alt=\"San Pedro Art Association, &quot;Art on the Edge&quot; banner, hangs from brown wooden rafters\" width=\"600\" height=\"241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/SPAA-new1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/SPAA-new1-300x121.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/SPAA-new1-500x201.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/\">San Pedro Art Association<\/a> hosts their first-ever crafts fair, on Saturday, April 21st!\u00a0\u00a0 You are cordially invited to come check out their handmade show, at St. Peter&#8217;s Episcopal Church, in San Pedro.<\/p>\n<p>Exhibiting artists will be offering wearable art, jewelry, woodcarving and candles.\u00a0\u00a0 And if you&#8217;re wondering, &#8220;What can I do with the kids?&#8221;, bring them&#8211;they&#8217;ll have an opportunity to get creative!\u00a0 A kids&#8217; craft area will allow them the opportunity to paint rocks in Springtime designs, all throughout the show, and maybe make a Mother&#8217;s Day gift for mom, an aunt or grandma.<\/p>\n<p><em>San Pedro Art Association&#8217;s inaugural Spring Crafts Fair runs from 9 am to 4 pm, at St. Peter&#8217;s Episcopal Church, 1648 West 9th Street, between Bynner Drive and South Dodson Avenue, in San Pedro.\u00a0 Admission is free, and some parking will be available behind the church, in addition to street parking.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10950\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10950\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10950\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3-439x300.jpg 439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/em>Meanwhile, if you happen to be in Pasadena this Saturday, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.creativeartsgroup.org\/\">Foothill Creative Arts Group<\/a> would love to welcome you to their spring show, &#8220;Art on Palm&#8221;.\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be celebrating Spring in Arlington Garden, a public garden space, as they exhibit windchimes, garden art, ceramics, metal sculpture and more.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artonpalm.com\/AOP-ArtistsPage.html\">link for a closer look<\/a> at some of the work of their exhibitors.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, according to their website, 2017 L.A. Times Restaurant of the Year &#8220;Locol&#8221; will be on hand, serving up burgers, fries, vegetarian options and &#8220;messy greens&#8221; from their food truck.\u00a0 Popular local band &#8220;Bullfish&#8221; will supply the uptempo energy with their bluesy, twist-of-soul rock selections.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Foothill Creative Arts Group&#8217;s &#8220;Art on Palm&#8221; Spring show happens this Saturday, April 21st, from 10 am to 5 pm in Arlington Garden, 275 Arlington Drive, between Orange Grove Boulevard and South Pasadena Avenue, in Pasadena.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11033\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11033\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11033\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sign outside Pasadena's Central Park\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>And on the subject of Pasadena shows: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\"><strong>Jackalope Arts<\/strong><\/a> is on its way, in another eight days.<\/p>\n<p>This multi-city, juried artisans&#8217; show hops into Pasadena for its Spring appearance on Saturday and Sunday, April 28th and 29th.<\/p>\n<p>Jackalope&#8217;s focus is on providing shoppers an opportunity to meet and visit with local crafters, as well as explore their own creativity.\u00a0 More than 200 hand-selected artisans will be displaying their work in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.\u00a0 Some of the unique creations you&#8217;ll see: fairy garden-inspired hair accessories, kids&#8217; &#8220;fuzzie&#8221; blankets in the shape of animals, ceramics that look like lace and sea swirls, and dried-flower ornaments that &#8220;bloom&#8221; in moisture but require no care!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8574\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8574\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8574\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-1-e1447482780792.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>In addition, Jackalope gives attendees a chance to see, and engage in, the creative process. Piinch-pot ceramics classes, natural DIY workshops (participants can create a terrarium, essential oil or a body scrub),\u00a0 &#8220;sheep-to-shawl&#8221; fiber demonstrations and fused-glass demonstrations will all be happening throughout the show.\u00a0 In addition, there will be free hula-hooping workshops (a fun way to burn off the Easter candy we ate a few weeks ago!).<\/p>\n<p>And this year, there&#8217;s a painting event, &#8220;Jackalope Rumble&#8221;, for artists ages 8 to 18, with all supplies provided free and a prize to be won!\u00a0 All artists get the opportunity to exhibit their paintings in the Jackalope show.\u00a0 Paintings will be sold by silent auction and their creators get to keep all silent-auction earnings.\u00a0\u00a0 &#8220;Jackalope Rumble&#8221; happens Sunday morning, April 29th, and artists are asked to arrive at the Jackalope information booth by 10:15 that morning.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/rumbleregistration\">link for more information and registration.<\/a><\/p>\n<h5><em>Jackalope Arts Spring Fair happens Saturday and Sunday, April 28th and 29th, in Central Park, at Del Mar between Raymond and Fair Oaks Avenues, in Old Pasadena.\u00a0 Hours are 10 am to 5 pm; admission&#8217;s free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12001\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12014\">TCG Set to Welcome Spring<\/a>  March 11, 2018<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12015\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12015\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12015\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-2017-1.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Craft Faire Today&quot; sign outside Torrance Cultural Arts Center building\" width=\"600\" height=\"496\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-2017-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-2017-1-300x248.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-2017-1-363x300.jpg 363w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>We all deserve a reward for &#8220;springing forward&#8221; this morning.\u00a0\u00a0 And here it is.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a> is counting down to their 19th Annual &#8220;Spring Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221;, next Saturday!<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re going to have three shopping areas full of all-handmade creations from talented indie artisans, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center!\u00a0 Starting at 10:00 next Saturday, March 17th, we crafts maniacs will have the chance to celebrate St. Patrick&#8217;s Day by offering a little &#8220;green&#8221; to our favorite creatives, in return for their made-with-love-and-individuality creations.\u00a0\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=12022\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-12022\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12022\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/At-TCG-show.jpg\" alt=\"Shoppers exxplore tables of handcrafted gifts at Torrance Craftsmen's Guild show\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/At-TCG-show.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/At-TCG-show-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/At-TCG-show-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>If you&#8217;re looking for cute additions to Easter baskets (wow, Easter is three weeks away at this writing!), you&#8217;re almost certain to find them here.\u00a0\u00a0 Or, you might find something special for Mom, for Mother&#8217;s Day.\u00a0\u00a0 Or perhaps a wedding or graduation gift, since June seems to sneak up on us faster every year.<\/p>\n<p>Ceramics, wind chimes, photography, candles and needle arts are some of our favorites from past Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild faires.\u00a0 I have yet to leave one of these empty-handed&#8211;and you probably won&#8217;t either.<\/p>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t yet have the listing of participating artisans, I can tell you about a few previous favorites.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=6349\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-6349\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6349\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/jacqui-with-her-quilt-e1449267168910.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"435\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a>Needle artist Jackie Demyers, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/craftsbyjacqui\">Crafts By Jacqui<\/a>, can do just about anything fabric- or textile-related.\u00a0 She&#8217;s currently working on Black Panther pillowcases, according to her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CraftsByJacqui\/\">Facebook page<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Knitting, crochet, embroidery and sewing are areas in which Jackie excels.\u00a0 Her fabric purses are Easter-morning bright and springy, and she creates beautiful quilts, clothing and baby blankets. \u00a0 (She also teaches classes!)\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10471\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10471\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10471\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>Multitalented Evangeline Duran Fuentes is both a published author and an artisan!\u00a0 While she&#8217;s currently at work on a brand-new book, Finding Erin, according to her author&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/EDFuentesAuthor\">Facebook page<\/a>, she also creates some gorgeous woven-bead bracelets and earrings.\u00a0 Check out her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AlluringbyDesign\/\">Alluring By Design<\/a> small-business Facebook page.\u00a0 But, be warned, you will be severely tempted to buy yourself a springtime present!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10272\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10272\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10272\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg\" alt=\"Krystina Kyle with one of her handmade rag dolls\" width=\"600\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-392x300.jpg 392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And hooray, according to her Facebook page, Krystina Kyle of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.funwithembroidery.com\/\">Fun with Pretend<\/a> is going to be exhibiting!\u00a0\u00a0 Gifted Krystina has won multiple awards for her fabric dolls, and her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FunwithPretend\/\">Facebook page<\/a> promises some vintage country chic Easter bunnies she&#8217;s handcrafted!<\/p>\n<p>(The &#8220;hooray&#8221; is because, previously, Krystina&#8217;s work serving her fellow artists as President of nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild precluded her exhibiting in the fall show.\u00a0 There are, after all, only so many hours in the day.\u00a0 But it&#8217;ll be great to see her back.)<br \/>\nHere&#8217;s a link to our <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10243\">previous interview,<\/a> in which she gives some background on her small business. .<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11440\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11440\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11440\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2.jpg\" alt=\"Orange monarch butterfly perched in purple flowers\" width=\"585\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2.jpg 585w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2-293x300.jpg 293w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 585px) 100vw, 585px\" \/><\/a>One of my favorite things about nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild?\u00a0 Other than the fact that they&#8217;ve been serving independent artists since 1970?<\/p>\n<p>Their Faires give back to the community.<\/p>\n<p>Proceeds go towards their Meghan Newman Memorial Scholarship Program, which scholarships for graduating Torrance high school seniors in the areas of arts and crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild is currently accepting scholarship applications, with a deadline of March 30, 2018.\u00a0 Current students in the areas of painting, ceramics, woodworking, sewing and much more are encouraged to apply.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/scholarships\/\">link for more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>See you at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, next Saturday, March 17th&#8211;as we celebrate St. Patrick&#8217;s Day, Spring <em>and<\/em> some of our favorite creative artisans&#8211;present and future!<\/p>\n<h5><em>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 19th annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire happens Saturday, March 17th, from 10 am to 4 pm at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, at Madrona and Torrance Boulevard.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=12014\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11567\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; Sparks the Imagination<\/a>  November 18, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11569\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11569\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11569\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11569\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11569\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview.jpeg\" alt=\"Jackalope image\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/jackalopenew2017logo_preview-300x300.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11569\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Jackalope Arts, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Community, meet artisans.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8570\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>That, in a nutshell, is the whole idea behind the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/a>, making its pre-Thanksgiving appearance this weekend in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.<\/p>\n<p>And you still have one more day to see the work of more than 150 curated local artists, <em>and<\/em> have fun being creative in your own right.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11580\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11580\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11580\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11580\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11580\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/HumanTreeRobot_preview-e1511063632936.jpeg\" alt=\"A wooden rack of thirty-six wooden art print miniatures at the Jackalope Fair\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11580\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.humantreerobot.com\/\">Human Tree Robot&#8217;s<\/a> colorful wooden art prints<br \/>(Photograph courtesy of<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gilphotography.com\/\"> Gil Riego Jr. Photography<\/a>, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Jackalope&#8217;s Indie Artisan Fair is a blend of colors, scents, tastes, and fantastic, innovative ideas.<\/p>\n<p>But it&#8217;s about so much more than buying cool things (although I never fail to leave with at least six bags!).<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11578\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11578\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11578\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11578\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11578\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/BeeGreen_preview-e1511062930827.jpeg\" alt=\"Honey jars with honey rippers on display.\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11578\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bee Green Honey.<br \/>(Photograph courtesy of of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.gilphotography.com\/\">Gil Riego Jr. Photography,<\/a> and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11583\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11583\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11583\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11583\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11583\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/KeyHistoric_preview-e1511063822197.jpeg\" alt=\"Visitors inspect jewelry made from vintage keys at The Key Historic booth during the Pasdena Jackalope Fair.\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11583\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/market\/the_key_historic\">The Key Historic<\/a> at the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<br \/>(Photograph courtesy of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.gilphotography.com\/\">Gil Riego Jr. Photography<\/a>, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>When you wander through Jackalope Arts, you&#8217;re encouraged to take your time, chat with the artists and learn the stories behind what they&#8217;re displaying.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8585\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8585\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8585\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Crystal1-e1447484068206.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8580\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8580\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8580\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-300x282.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-320x300.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Personal favorites from past Pasadena exhibitors have included a sparkly Christmas <a href=\"http:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thread_therapy\/?hl=en\">&#8220;string art&#8221; snowflake decoration<\/a>, cool <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/TheKeyHistoric\">antique-key earrings<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/people\/ColdwaterCanyon\">to-die-for preserves from a family recipe.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Plus, visitors get to do hands-on work and explore their own artistic talents .<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11579\" style=\"width: 2058px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11579\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11579\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11579\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11579\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview.jpeg\" alt=\"A canvas painting workshop at Jackalope Indie Arts Fair.\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1367\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview-768x513.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview-1024x684.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/workshop2_preview-449x300.jpeg 449w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11579\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">DIY workshops at Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.<br \/>(Photograph courtesy of Gil Riego Jr. Photography, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>DIY workshop opportunities at this weekend&#8217;s Jackalope Fair include free pinch-pot workshops with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cobaltandclay.com\/\">Cobalt and Clay<\/a>,\u00a0 canvas-painting workshops for $10 with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pinotspalette.com\/pasadena\">Pinot&#8217;s Palette Pasadena<\/a>, and live fused-glass demonstrations with <a href=\"http:\/\/classes.bullseyeglass.com\/\">Bullseye Glass Resource Center<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Workshops are for all ages, and tend to be a lot of fun.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8593\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8593\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8593\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-11-e1447486254104.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\">Jackalope Arts<\/a> is a multi-city show, which founders Sara Diederich and Melissa Shipley started in 2015.\u00a0 Their vision: an opportunity for locals to get to know the artists behind the creations, in multiple cities.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8575\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8575\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8575\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Jackalope Arts has hosted regular arts-centered events in the San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix and Los Angeles areas.\u00a0\u00a0 After Pasadena, they&#8217;re headed for Denver, with a two-day show on Saturday and Sunday, December 9th and 10 in the downtown McNichols Building.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, if you can&#8217;t get to Pasadena tomorrow, you may want to get out your calendar anyway.\u00a0 Spring shows are in the planning stages, with Pasadena scheduled for April 28th and 29th, 2018, and Denver on May 19th and 20th.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8572\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8572\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8572\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"5888\" height=\"3312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg 5888w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 5888px) 100vw, 5888px\" \/><\/a>And if you&#8217;re an artist who&#8217;d like to be considered for a future show, or for the opportunity to teach a workshop?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/apply\">&#8220;Early-bird&#8221; applications<\/a> are open now for the April show in Pasadena!\u00a0 The deadline is January 2, 2018, and you can sign up for Jackalope&#8217;s &#8220;Interested Vendor Newsletter&#8221; to find out when applications open for their Denver spring show.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Day 2 of Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair&#8217;s winter show in Pasadena happens Sunday, November 18th from 10 am to 4 pm in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, located at Delmar and Raymond.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11567\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11537\">A Creative Community&#8217;s Star Turn<\/a>  November 16, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11546\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11546\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11546\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11546\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11546\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Postcard21.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Postcard21.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Postcard21-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Postcard21-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11546\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Christmas shopping where you get to have fun, meet talented artists <em>and<\/em> give back to the community?<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s exactly what <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild <\/a>would like to offer you, this weekend.<\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-11537-4\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/krystina_kyle_noelophile_2017.mp3?_=4\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/krystina_kyle_noelophile_2017.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/krystina_kyle_noelophile_2017.mp3<\/a><\/audio><br \/>\nThey&#8217;ll be having their 48th Annual &#8220;Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; this Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th, as the Thanksgiving\/Christmas season gets off to a start!<\/p>\n<p>Expect to see more than eighty talented artisan vendors, with their unique work in four different areas.\u00a0 Uptempo music will be filling the courtyard&#8211;and this year, you&#8217;ll have a gourmet option for lunch.<\/p>\n<p>Best of all, besides hosting an all-handmade show, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TorranceCraftsmensGuild\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a>, which has been serving crafters since 1970, is also serving the community.\u00a0 In addition to their scholarship program, this year their &#8220;Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; includes a toy donation drop for 1736 Family Crisis Center&#8217;s Christmas store!\u00a0\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/1736familycrisiscenter.org\/holiday-stores.html\">link <\/a>if you&#8217;d like to know what they need most.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10272\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10272\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10272\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg\" alt=\"Krystina Kyle with one of her handmade rag dolls\" width=\"600\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-392x300.jpg 392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Krystina Kyle is the\u00a0 President of Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8211;as well as the proprietor of a great handmade small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FunwithPretend\/\">Fun With Pretend<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Her duties as President have precluded her exhibiting her award-winning handcrafted dolls this year (I&#8217;m sorry!), but she&#8217;s excited about all the other fantastic artists she gets to serve, as Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild marks its 48th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire.<\/p>\n<p>We talked about what&#8217;s involved in this special event, what you can expect to see this weekend and how TCG&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/TCG\/scholarships\/\">scholarship program<\/a> is supporting the next generation of artists.<\/p>\n<h5><em>The Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 48th Annual Arts and Crafts Faire happens Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, near Madrona Avenue and Torrance Boulevard.\u00a0 Hours are 9 am to 4 pm, both days, and admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11537\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11430\">A New Small Business Celebrates<\/a>  November 13, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11437\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11437\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11437\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-Oct-28-2017-version-1.jpg\" alt=\"Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing and Bookstore in the sunshine o an October early monrning.\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-Oct-28-2017-version-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-Oct-28-2017-version-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-Oct-28-2017-version-1-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p>Hot chocolate, artists, a magical space&#8211;and a week to go, until Thanksgiving.<\/p>\n<p>Can the Southern California almost-Christmas season possibly get better than that?<\/p>\n<p>Well&#8211;maybe it can.\u00a0\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1953251581555737\/\">Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing &amp; Bookstore<\/a> haven&#8217;t announced all the artists for their first &#8220;Winter Wonderland Art Gallery&#8221;&#8211;yet!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11450\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11450\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11450\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11450\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11450\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-art-gallery.jpg\" alt=\"Flyer with holly berries against snow\" width=\"600\" height=\"357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-art-gallery.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-art-gallery-300x179.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Pipe-Thimble-art-gallery-500x298.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11450\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing and Bookstore.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>So far, what I <em>can<\/em> tell you is that this mixed-media show promises not to disappoint.\u00a0 Pipe &amp; Thimble, celebrating their first Christmas season in business <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?m=201705&amp;paged=2\">since their opening in May of this year<\/a>, will be showcasing works by a variety of local artists.<\/p>\n<p>Here are just a few of those.\u00a0 (And if you haven&#8217;t been already, here&#8217;s one look at the inside of Pipe &amp; Thimble, Southern California&#8217;s first bookstore to carry all independent authors!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11073\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11073\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11073\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/inside-the-store11.jpg\" alt=\"shoppers inside Pipe and Thimble Bookstore\" width=\"600\" height=\"581\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/inside-the-store11.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/inside-the-store11-300x291.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/inside-the-store11-310x300.jpg 310w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Carol Newell, of<a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/ButtonArtByCarol\"> &#8220;Button Art by Carol&#8221;<\/a>, may be making an understatement.\u00a0 Her creations go far beyond the projects I remember as &#8220;button art&#8221;.\u00a0 If you think &#8220;talented mosaic artist&#8221; and ask to see her seahorse piece, you&#8217;re more likely to be on the right track.<\/p>\n<p>Now, do you happen to be the kind of cat person who will stop and look around at the sound of an unexpected &#8220;meow&#8221;?\u00a0\u00a0 And who will admit to anticipating petting soft fur and hearing purrs?\u00a0 (You have plenty of company&#8230;)<\/p>\n<p>Then, you&#8217;ll want to look for brand-new small business exhibitor Sage Kitties.\u00a0 This is such a new one that they don&#8217;t yet have a website.\u00a0 However, Pipe &amp; Thimble co-owner Barbara Lieberman gave me a heads-up that they&#8217;ll be there.\u00a0 The artist in question, she says, draws some incredible cats.\u00a0\u00a0 I can&#8217;t wait to see these, and our resident felines say they completely approve!<\/p>\n<p>And really&#8211;what <em>can&#8217;t <\/em>talented &#8220;artrepreneurs&#8221; Ellie Lieberman, Jessica Silagy, Robin Nieto and Barbara Lieberman do?\u00a0\u00a0<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11439\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1.jpg\" alt=\"Author Ellie Lieberman smiles in Pipe &amp; Thimble bookstore\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ellie1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/>Pipe &amp; Thimble co-owner\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/ellielieberman.weebly.com\/\">Ellie Lieberman<\/a> excels at crafting miniatures and illustrating books.\u00a0 (Her young-adult fiction and short stories are pretty amazing, too.)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/KnuckleheadRanch\/\">Jessica Silagy<\/a> is an inspired graphic artist who can take any concept, from vintage pin-up art to steampunk, and create something whimsical, beautiful and fun.\u00a0 Be sure to look for her &#8220;goddess&#8221; prints and pinup calendars in support of pit-bull rescues!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11440\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11440\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11440\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2.jpg\" alt=\"Orange monarch butterfly perched in purple flowers\" width=\"585\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2.jpg 585w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/butterfly-in-flowers2-293x300.jpg 293w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 585px) 100vw, 585px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Robin Nieto is a mixed-media artist and the co-author (with Elaine MacInnes) of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Tales-Memas-Garden-Monarch-Butterflies\/dp\/1503250571\"><em>Tales From Mema&#8217;s Garden <\/em><\/a>children&#8217;s series, which teaches today&#8217;s tech-absorbed kids to take a wondering look at the world around them.<\/p>\n<p>(And if you&#8217;d like a sense of that wonder, ask Robin, when you meet her, if she&#8217;s seen any butterflies lately!\u00a0 She just might show you&#8230;well, there&#8217;s no need for me to ruin the surprise.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10945\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10945\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10945\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1.jpg\" alt=\"Barbar Lieberman holds up her book Love in the Middle\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And<a href=\"http:\/\/www.keyboardmusings.com\/\"> Barbara Lieberman<\/a>, in addition to painting, needlefelting, teaching, and creating incredible miniatures and soft sculpture, writes novels that need a warning label on them!<\/p>\n<p>I would suggest something like, &#8220;CAUTION: Do <em>not<\/em> assume you can read ONE chapter before bedtime,&#8221; as this has been my mistake with her books, many times.\u00a0 Her historic novel &#8220;To Reap a Whirlwind&#8221; and her fantasy, &#8220;To Miss the Stars&#8221; were just two that had me saying, &#8220;Really, I&#8217;m turning off the light after just ONE more chapter&#8230;&#8221;\u00a0 (I think you know how <em>that<\/em> turned out!)<\/p>\n<p>In addition, Barb has written a unique, honest and humorous nonfiction account of her struggle with chronic illness, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Unchained-Spirit-glass-half-full-forgotten\/dp\/0692783105\"><em>The Unchained Spirit<\/em>.<\/a>\u00a0 This book should be required reading, not just for anyone dealing with an illness, but for anyone who&#8217;s ever had a bad day, not quite dared to reach for a dream, or loved someone who was in need of an extra hug.<\/p>\n<p>All this and hot chocolate too?\u00a0 Absolutely&#8211;and you are cordially invited to come down to Pipe &amp; Thimble on Friday evening, November 17th, to support these local artistsand authors&#8211;plus the new ones that haven&#8217;t yet been announced!<\/p>\n<h5><em>Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing and Bookstore hosts its first &#8220;Winter Wonderland Art Gallery&#8221; from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday, November 17th, at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in the city of Lomita.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11430\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11442\">A &#8220;Handcrafted&#8221; Invitation<\/a>  November 4, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10504\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10504\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10504\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/gayle-with-jewelry-2-e1480178927163.jpg\" alt=\"Gayle Fleury with one of her Aussie Girl necklaces\" width=\"399\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>&#8220;Oh, you&#8217;re so talented!&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;re highly likely to hear that, this Christmas season, if you attend Seaside Studios San Pedro&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1513393378730069\/\">&#8220;Ladies&#8217; Ornament Party&#8221;, <\/a>in just under two more weeks.<\/p>\n<p>But first, you&#8217;re almost certain to have a lot of fun.<\/p>\n<p>Gayle Fleury, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pg\/Aussie-Girl-Designs-105513316150336\/about\/?ref=page_internal\">Aussie Girl Designs<\/a>, will be hosting this three-hour workshop, which begins at 10 am.\u00a0 You&#8217;re invited to come join the group, sip wine, enjoy snacks and make something incredible for your tree or home.<\/p>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t yet have an update on the type of media Gayle is using, she is a talented designer whose specialty is crafting amazing jewelry.\u00a0 I&#8217;ll make an educated guess that she&#8217;ll show you how to create some sparkly treasures.<\/p>\n<p>While the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1513393378730069\/\">Facebook page<\/a> says&#8221;snacks will be provided, it also mentions that food contributions are always welcome.\u00a0 So if you&#8217;d like to bring a favorite finger food or specialty, you certainly can.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike many of the other activities I like to promote on Noelophile\u00ae, this workshop does have a cost: $40 per person.<\/p>\n<p>Expect the morning to be well worth it.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Aussie Girl Designs&#8217; &#8220;Ladies Ornament Party&#8221; begins at 10 am, Saturday, November 18th at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.seasidestudiossanpedro.com\/\">Seaside Studios San Pedro<\/a>, and runs till 1 pm.\u00a0 Seaside Studios San Pedro is located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard (near O&#8217;Farrell), across from the Fanfare Fountains and cruise ship terminal.\u00a0 Cost for the workshop is $40 per person.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11442\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11402\">Fullerton Set to &#8220;Glitter&#8221;<\/a>  October 14, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11407\" style=\"width: 427px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11407\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11407\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11407\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11407\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/glitterfest-poster.jpg\" alt=\"poster advertising Glitterfest with two sisters in witch'shat and crown and ship in background\" width=\"417\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/glitterfest-poster.jpg 417w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/glitterfest-poster-209x300.jpg 209w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 417px) 100vw, 417px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11407\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Glitterfest, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Today is <em>it.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Today, Sunday, October 15th, is Glitterfest 2017&#8217;s Fall edition of their\u00a0 juried, handmade mixed-media art show, in a new location: Fullerton!<\/p>\n<p>We&#8217;ve only had the opportunity to attend one Glitterfest show, so far.\u00a0 But this weekend, we&#8217;re hoping to change that.<\/p>\n<p>Glitterfest is unique, among the shows we&#8217;ve seen, due to combining vintage home decor with some very cool handcrafted creations.\u00a0\u00a0 And every vintage item, rather than being a fragile, don&#8217;t-breathe-around-me-or-I&#8217;ll-shatter antique, is a &#8220;fun&#8221; thing we can easily see bringing home as a new treasure.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11408\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11408\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11408\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/sheryl-and-dianne-31.jpg\" alt=\"Sisters and Glitterfest founders Sheryl Simpson and Dianne white at check-in table with black-and-white diamond banner\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/sheryl-and-dianne-31.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/sheryl-and-dianne-31-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/sheryl-and-dianne-31-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And Glitterfest founders (and sisters) Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White have a talent for combining old and new, and making them work together.\u00a0\u00a0 Spread among the vintage items with a lot of imagination and creativity, you&#8217;ll discover a lot of fantastic handcrafted jewelry, clothing and decor for Halloween, Christmas and even Valentine&#8217;s Day, courtesy of the talented exhibiting artists..<\/p>\n<p>When we attended before, we fell in love with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pg\/beadsofdarkness\/about\/\">Gabrielle Acevedo&#8217;s<\/a> Gothic bead art, a\/k\/a Beads of Darkness.\u00a0 (Who knew woven-bead necklaces and purses could have such a delightfully spine-tingling Halloween twist?)\u00a0 We also loved the wax-faced pixies and flocked vintage mini-Christmas trees on display (we remember those!).<\/p>\n<p>And this year, we suspect we&#8217;re going to love <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bearseverywhere.com\/\">Susan Arnott&#8217;s<\/a> work even more.\u00a0 She&#8217;s a teddy-bear artist, who creates adorable &#8220;bear-necessity&#8221; items.\u00a0 Her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bearseverywhere.com\/\">webpage<\/a> also displays a handcrafted bunny that looks suspiciously like the Velveteen Rabbit of our childhood days.\u00a0 (She has limited editions of some childhood favorites, but better order early&#8211;she may easily sell out by Christmas!)<\/p>\n<p>Unlike most art shows we&#8217;ve attended, Glitterfest does have an admission fee.\u00a0 They also seem to have a devoted following: the morning we went, a line of enthusiastic women were waiting outside for the doors to open.<\/p>\n<p>This year, we&#8217;re especially looking forward to seeing the very cute decoupage snowman we spotted on Glitterfest&#8217;s Facebook page, &#8220;in person&#8221;.\u00a0 We also will have an eye out for the snowmen and other Christmas items made of salt-and-pepper shakers (some people are so talented!).\u00a0\u00a0 And we always like to see Angela Resendiz&#8217;s original fabric art from her small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/shabbyfrenchome.com\/\">The Shabby French Home<\/a>.\u00a0 (You guessed it&#8211;there&#8217;s nothing &#8220;shabby&#8221; about her work!)<\/p>\n<p>We also probably won&#8217;t be able to resist <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/beekissedcaramels\/\">Bee-Kissed Caramels<\/a>&#8216; artisan candy&#8211;and neither will you.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Glitterfest&#8217;s 2017 autumn mixed-media art show happens Sunday, October 15th, at its new\u00a0 Fullerton location,\u00a0 Spring Field Banquet and Conference Center,\u00a0 501 North Harbor Drive at West Chapman Avenue.\u00a0 Hours are 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, and admission is $7.00 at the door.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11402\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11370\">An Autumn Roundup &#8211; Part 1<\/a>  October 3, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11378\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11378\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11378\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/more-pumpkins11.jpg\" alt=\"Ripe pumpkins in a field\" width=\"600\" height=\"340\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/more-pumpkins11.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/more-pumpkins11-300x170.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/more-pumpkins11-500x283.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>How in the world did October get here so fast?<\/p>\n<p>With shorter days, turning leaves, displays of pumpkins in the stores and even one store putting out evergreeens (yikes!), it&#8217;s time to think of Christmas shopping.\u00a0 But not the crowded-mall type; the kind that&#8217;s actually <em>fun<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, I&#8217;m talking about indie artisans and getting to meet the people who crafted something special.\u00a0 Here are several events for which you may want to mark your calendar (they&#8217;re not <em>that<\/em> far away!).<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s start with what&#8217;s new this year.<\/p>\n<p><strong>NEW: Tamiza&#8217;s Treats storefront: Grand Opening, October 27th.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11373\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11373\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11373\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Tamiza-with-her-goodies1.jpg\" alt=\"Tamiza with treats at her table\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Tamiza-with-her-goodies1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Tamiza-with-her-goodies1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Tamiza-with-her-goodies1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Remember the peanut-butter fudge, chocolate-chip cookies and various other &#8220;irresistibles&#8221; Mom or Grandma used to make?<\/p>\n<p>So does professional pastry chef Tamiza Teja.<\/p>\n<p>But the difference is, Mom or Grandma probably didn&#8217;t create vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free specialties upon request.\u00a0\u00a0 Through her artisan bakery, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tamizastreats.com\/\">Tamiza&#8217;s Treats<\/a>, Tamiza can provide all of the above.\u00a0 She also creates gift baskets for any occasion.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Yummmm&#8221; tends to be a conservative commentary on her handiwork.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11374\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11374\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11374\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/send-to-Tamiza1.jpg\" alt=\"Tamiza Teja with &quot;Eat Dessert First&quot; sign\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/send-to-Tamiza1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/send-to-Tamiza1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>I&#8217;ve been buying her chocolate-chip cookies, fudge and popcorn for the past three years or so.\u00a0 (Purely in the interest of investigative research, of course!)\u00a0 Everything she makes has a tendency to disappear, very quickly<\/p>\n<p>Now, Tamiza&#8217;s planning &#8220;Tamiza&#8217;s Treats and Artisan Boutique Grand Opening&#8221; at noon on Friday, October 27th&#8211;just in time to treat some of your favorite ghosts and goblins!\u00a0 And if you&#8217;re a total &#8220;foodie&#8221; who likes to cook, her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tamizastreats.com\/buy\/storefront.html\">new shop <\/a>will offer food-related and kitchen items, created by high-quality artisans.<\/p>\n<p>Grand opening festivities, Tamiza messaged, will be going on all weekend.\u00a0\u00a0 And if you&#8217;re looking for a gift for a favorite &#8220;foodie&#8221;, or something special for a party or other celebration, you might like to talk to her sooner, rather than later.\u00a0 (She does take <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tamizastreats.com\/buy\/index.html\">online orders<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p><em>Tamiza&#8217;s Treats Artisan Treats &amp; Gift Boutique&#8217;s Grand Opening happens Friday, October 27th, from noon to 7 pm,, at 3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q in the city of Torrance.\u00a0 Admission is free.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10950\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10950\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10950\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/nasturtiums3-439x300.jpg 439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/em>And since the weeks before Thanksgiving always seem to book up early, here&#8217;s another new event you may want to put on your calendar:<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11119\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11119\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11119\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/sign2.jpg\" alt=\"Pipe and Thimble Bookstore sign\" width=\"540\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/sign2.jpg 540w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/sign2-270x300.jpg 270w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><\/a><strong>Pipe &amp;Thimble Publishing and Bookstore Winter Wonderland Art Gallery, November 17th.<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Southern California&#8217;s first all-independent-authors bookstore opened this past May, as we mentioned in <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11115\">an earlier post<\/a>.\u00a0 Now, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PipeandThimblePublishing\/\">Pipe &amp; Thimble<\/a> proprietors Barb and Ellie Lieberman are about to celebrate their first Christmas season as bookstore\/magical creative space owners.<\/p>\n<p>Their &#8220;Winter Wonderland Art Gallery&#8221; will feature works by local artists and photographers.\u00a0 Just a few they&#8217;ve already named:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=6358\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-6358\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6358\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/jessica2-e1446960473309.jpg\" alt=\"Jessica Silagy near her table of graphic prints and cards\" width=\"434\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/profile.php?id=100010307468940&amp;hc_ref=ARQ6mcgLP3HOwBp3gnaCoXKju4dH6VjYl_Gzz1_PS7wDhFhevcXM5iPXh4tn58JWjPs&amp;fref=nf\">Jessica Silagy<\/a>, gifted graphic artist (one of her Christmas cards is still part of our decor; it&#8217;s too pretty to send!);<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.pipeandthimble.com\/robin-nieto.html\">Robin Nieto, co-author of Tales From Mema&#8217;s Garden;<\/a> (Ask her if she&#8217;s seen any butterflies lately, and she may just show you something breathtaking!);<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SuzanneGibsonArtist\/\">Suzanne Gibson, of Suzanne&#8217;s Studio<\/a>; (I love her Halloween pumpkin and Santa paintings!);<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11388\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11388\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11388\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/closeuphug1.jpg\" alt=\"Barb and Ellie Lieberman hug\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/closeuphug1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/closeuphug1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/closeuphug1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And, of course, Barb and Ellie, besides being talented authors, excel at creating&#8211;well, just about everything.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11384\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11384\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11384\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/bears2.jpg\" alt=\"miniature bears\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/bears2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/bears2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/bears2-500x282.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Here are a few of their &#8220;Pipe &amp; Thimble Bears&#8221;, which they made prior to their store opening.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11385\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11385\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11385\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11.jpg\" alt=\"Barb Lieberman with purple flower painting\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Barb-with-her-painting-21_edited-11-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Couldn&#8217;t resist falling in love with this cheery miniature painting Barb did, either.\u00a0 Meanwhile, one of my personal favorites of theirs, for Christmas , is a set of two soft-sculpture fabric trees they crafted, through Barb&#8217;s previous handcrafted business &#8220;Seeds 2 Inspire&#8221;.\u00a0 Originally, Barb and Ellie designed them as sachets, but given a resident feline whose breathing is more important than scented <em>anything<\/em>, we went with, simply, decorations.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=6344\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-6344\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6344\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie.jpg\" alt=\"Ellie Lieberman with her miniatures\" width=\"508\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie.jpg 508w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px\" \/><\/a>Want to see something enchanting?\u00a0 Ellie creates fairy-world miniatures: doors, houses and just about anything else magical, through her handmade online\u00a0 business, <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops!<\/a><\/p>\n<p>(Also, if you love needlecrafting, don&#8217;t forget to ask Barb about her needle-felting classes!\u00a0 A recent favorite creation is her monarch butterfly.)<\/p>\n<p>AND&#8211;we&#8217;re not done yet.\u00a0 More exhibiting artists are in the process of confirming!<\/p>\n<h5><em>Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing &amp; Bookstore hosts their &#8220;Winter Wonderland Art Gallery&#8221; on Friday evening, November 17th, from 7:30 to 10 pm at their store location, 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in the City of Lomita.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>Now, how come everything fun seems to happen all at the same time?<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8575\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8575\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8575\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a> November 18th is going to be a &#8220;crafty&#8221; weekend, with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Arts<\/a> making its Pasadena appearance that Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th.\u00a0 (Pictured is show co-founder Sara Diederich.\u00a0 Notice the shopping bag&#8211;<em>she<\/em> couldn&#8217;t resist all the cool gift stuff, either!)<\/p>\n<p>This is an all-handmade, juried arts and crafts fair which I had the pleasure of exploring, after its Pasadena debut in 2015.\u00a0 They had more than 200 artisans, along with a DIY booth and workshops.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11390\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11390\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11390\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/hooping.jpg\" alt=\"Jennifer Jensen teaches hooping class in Pasadena's Central Park\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/hooping.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/hooping-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/hooping-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Complete favorites included the hula-hoop workshops with Jennifer Jensen of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eclectichoops.com\/\">Eclectic Hoops<\/a>, the kids&#8217; mask-making workshops by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/spaceartscenter\/\">SPACE (South Pasadena Arts Center<\/a>, and of course, all the cool creative &#8220;finds&#8221; that had me lugging home a shopping bag full of treasures.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11395\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11395\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11395\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kids-workshops.jpg\" alt=\"mask-masking workshops at Jackalope Arts Fair, ,Central Park, Pasadena\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kids-workshops.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kids-workshops-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kids-workshops-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Sara mentioned, in an earlier interview, that she and her co-founders created Jackalope Arts as a way for the community to connect and actually have a conversation with the creative exhibitors, rather than simply buy product.\u00a0 That&#8217;s exactly what happened when I attended before: met some fantastic artists whose work is probably going to tempt me again this year!<\/p>\n<p>Another plus?\u00a0 Pasadena Jackalope Arts Fair now features glass-fusing demonstrations by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bullseyeglass.com\/\">Bullseye Glass Resource Center<\/a>&#8211;and if you&#8217;d like to sharpen your own artistic skills, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pinotspalette.com\/\">Pinot&#8217;s Palette Pasadena<\/a> offers $10 canvas-painting workshops, both days of the Jackalope Fair!<\/p>\n<h5><em>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair<\/a> happens Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th, in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, 219 South Fair Oaks Avenue at Raymond.\u00a0 Hours are 10 am to 4 pm, both days, and admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11370\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11317\">Late Summer, Near the Sea<\/a>  August 18, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11322\" style=\"width: 473px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11322\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11322\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11322\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11322\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/SC-Arts-and-Craft-Flyer.jpg\" alt=\"SCAA Arts and Craft Fair flyer\" width=\"463\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/SC-Arts-and-Craft-Flyer.jpg 463w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/SC-Arts-and-Craft-Flyer-232x300.jpg 232w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 463px) 100vw, 463px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11322\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Flyer courtesy of Sheila Shepherd, copyright 2017, SCAA and used with permission.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Swirls of honeylike fused glass.\u00a0 A morning-light moment, captured on an artist&#8217;s canvas.\u00a0 Patchwork that evokes summertime memories&#8211;even as it updates to the present day.<\/p>\n<p>Did I tempt you yet?<\/p>\n<p>If not, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.paintsanclemente.com\/\">San Clemente Art Association<\/a> will do a much better job, this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday and Sunday, August 19th and 20th, they&#8217;re hosting their fifty-seventh annual &#8220;Arts and Craft Fair&#8221;, at the San Clemente Community Center!<\/p>\n<p>While I don&#8217;t have a final tally of the number of artists and fine crafters exhibiting, suffice it to say that the San Clemente Art Association, founded in 1953, hosted its first Art and Crafts Fair in the 1960s.\u00a0 Their mission, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.paintsanclemente.com\/history-purpose\/\">website,<\/a> is to &#8220;foster the appreciation of all arts and fine crafts&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>And this weekend is your chance to find new treasures&#8211;and maybe start some early Christmas shopping.\u00a0 (Wow, did I really say that, <em>already?<\/em> )<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10732\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10732\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10732\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"431\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1-418x300.jpg 418w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Two artists you&#8217;ll definitely enjoy meeting: Michael and Freda Evans, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ozarkswood-n-stuff.com\/\">Ozarks-Wood-N-Stuff<\/a>!\u00a0 Both Mike and Freda are performers: Mike is a musician, who has divided his time between\u00a0 playing upright bass with the South Coast Symphony and performing in Branson, Missouri&#8217;s &#8220;The Shepherd of the Hills&#8221; outdoor drama.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Freda, who is an actress and singer, portrays &#8220;Mrs. Santa Claus&#8221; in Branson every Christmas season.<\/p>\n<p>And Mike has two studios, in which he turns some beautiful, warm-looking bowls, plates, goblets and a number of other unique items that will have you wanting to reach out and touch the smooth exotic and local woods he uses to work his magic.<\/p>\n<p>I personally couldn&#8217;t resist his smooth cherry wood pens, but he also crafts refrigerator magnets (secret Santa gifts here!), personalized rattles and platters.\u00a0\u00a0 Mike emails that the San Clemente Art Association&#8217;s Art and Crafts Fair is Ozarks-Wood-N-Stuff&#8217;s final California show.<\/p>\n<p>Summertime, a chance to support gifted artists, and the ocean not far away.\u00a0 California craft shows don&#8217;t get a lot better than that.<\/p>\n<h5><em>San Clemente Art Association&#8217;s 57th annual &#8220;Arts and Craft Fair&#8221; happens this Saturday and Sunday, August 19th and 20th from 10 am to 5 pm at San Clemente Community Center, 100 North Calle Seville (near Avenida Cabrillo).\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11317\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11142\">A &#8220;Crafty&#8221; Almost-Summer Update<\/a>  May 27, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7589\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7589\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7589\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Festival in downtown Santa Ana\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Rain or shine, they&#8217;ll be there&#8211;heralding the start of Summer 2017.<\/p>\n<p>And literally hundreds of talented all-handmade artists and artisans hope you&#8217;ll come see their creations, as our California summer gets off to an unofficial start.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7590\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7590\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>This weekend kicks off the first of three upcoming &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers&#8217; Festivals<\/a>&#8221; in Santa Ana.<\/p>\n<p>Not only is this always a celebration, in the heart of Santa Ana&#8217;s arts district&#8211;this particular show of the trio carries a special shine.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11150\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11150\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11150\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-300x233.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-387x300.jpg 387w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Maybe it&#8217;s the fact that Santa Ana is Patchwork Show&#8217;s &#8220;hometown&#8221;.\u00a0 Festival co-creators Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell first started the Patchwork Show in a Santa Ana parking lot in 2008.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11154\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11154\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11154\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show,music stage\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>But there&#8217;s always an extra sparkle of festivity with the performances on multiple stages, DIY workshops and artisan food vendors. \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11147\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11147\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11147\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show DIY area\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>This year&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/upcoming-shows\/\">map and schedule<\/a> list a &#8220;craft truck&#8221; and two DIY areas.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11148\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11148\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11148\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork Santa Ana 2015\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And of course, unique jewelry, needlework, woodworking, graphics and all sorts of other cool &#8220;finds&#8221; are a given.<\/p>\n<p>Can&#8217;t make it to Santa Ana this weekend? \u00a0Patchwork Show comes to <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/upcoming-shows\/\">Long Beach<\/a> on June 11th&#8211;and to <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/upcoming-shows\/\">Oakland<\/a> on June 24th.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival&#8217;s Spring show runs from 11 am to 5 pm, Sunday, May 28th, at 2nd and Sycamore Street in downtown Santa Ana.\u00a0 <\/em><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><em>The Long Beach Spring 2017 Patchwork Show happens from 11 am to 5 pm at Marine Stadium, Sunday, June 11th, at Appian Way at Bayshore.\u00a0 <\/em><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><em>Then, the Oakland Spring 2017 show runs from11 am to 5 pm, Sunday, June 24th, at Jack London Square, located at Broadway and Water Street. Admission to all Patchwork Show events is free.\u00a0<\/em><\/h5>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9772\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9772\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9772\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9772\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9772\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9772\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>While we&#8217;re on the subject of crafts festivals the Bay Area, now is a good time to mark your calendar for a Union Street tradition. \u00a0The forty-first annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sresproductions.com\/events\/union-street-festival\/\">Union Street Music Festival <\/a>happens <em>next<\/em> weekend, June 3 and 4.<\/p>\n<p>Huh? <i>Music<\/i> Festival?<\/p>\n<p>Absolutely.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9748\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9748\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9748\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9748\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9748\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9748\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>You and I may be most familiar with it as the &#8221; Union Street Festival&#8221;, but according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sresproductions.com\/events\/union-street-festival\/\">website<\/a>, this is a new update&#8211;with a larger emphasis on music,\u00a0 to keep the Festival fresh and evolving.<\/p>\n<p>This largest of the Bay Area&#8217;s outdoor festivals will feature bands in five different genres&#8211;including jazz, bluegrass and local&#8211;playing on \u00a0stages all throughout the festival area (Union Street from Gough to Fillmore).<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9771\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9771\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9771\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9771\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9771\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9771\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the event will still feature the art and craft vendors, community groups and food vendors, along with their beverage gardens, that have brought people back for more in San Francisco on an annual basis.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9769\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9769\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9769\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9769\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9769\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9769\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>There will be a juried art section, with cash prizes, and I&#8217;m glad I don&#8217;t have the judges&#8217; job! \u00a0I&#8217;ve loved the Union Street Festival since celebrating my twenty-fourth birthday there, about five minutes ago (ahem), and always come back with a new total favorite.\u00a0 One recent one: a breathtaking photo of the Golden Gate bridge, captured at a pink dawn by a gifted local photographer.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_11166\" style=\"width: 398px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11166\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11166\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11166\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11166\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/ovlf-2017-main-poster-online.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"388\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/ovlf-2017-main-poster-online.jpg 388w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/ovlf-2017-main-poster-online-194x300.jpg 194w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 388px) 100vw, 388px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11166\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Art by Kristina Grey, of Ojai Studio Artists, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And speaking of &#8220;breathtaking&#8221;&#8211;if you already love this poster, you&#8217;ll get to see the actual painting at this year&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a>!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9785\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9785\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-500x280.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8220;Our very gifted artist is Kristina Grey, a local resident and member of the Ojai Studio Artists,&#8221; emailed Ojai Valley Lavender Festival President Cindy Mullins. \u00a0 Cindy says this painting will be featured in the Art Pavilion, the day of the Festival.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7693\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7693\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7693\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7693\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Art-Pavilion-by-Diana_Hatcher-e1434818141143.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>(And not to tempt you or anything&#8211;but most of the art in the pavilion is available for sale.)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7690\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7690\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7690\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7690\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7690\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/windchimes-by-Diana-Hatcherl-e1434818205877.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7690\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Very gifted&#8221; would also be an accurate description for the musicians, vendors and speakers who will be a part of this fourteenth annual Lavender Festival.\u00a0\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7781\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7781\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7781\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/browsing_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"694\" \/><\/a>More than a hundred artists and artisans will be exhibiting their work&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11168\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11168\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11168\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/OVLF-events1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/OVLF-events1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/OVLF-events1-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/OVLF-events1-437x300.jpg 437w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;and speakers on beekeeping, farming and cooking will be sharing their expertise.<\/p>\n<p>I personally hope the Ojai Valley Raptor Center will be back this year.\u00a0 Their kestrels, hawks and falcons were a definite fun highlight of the show.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7695\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7695\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7695\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7695\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7695\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Frozen-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Frozen-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Frozen-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Frozen-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7695\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And if you get hungry, there are lavender cupcakes, ice cream, cookies and all kinds of other delicacies made with lavender, at the Festival <em>and<\/em> in the local restaurants.\u00a0 However, the popular &#8220;Lavender Cooking Class&#8221; at the <a href=\"http:\/\/lavenderinn.com\/ojai-culinary-school\/\">Lavender Inn<\/a> is currently sold out&#8211;with a wait list.\u00a0 (If you love cooking, though, you might just like to ask about their other classes&#8211;they have a full culinary school!)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11169\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11169\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11169\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Steel-Cut-Band.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Steel-Cut-Band.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Steel-Cut-Band-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Steel-Cut-Band-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Looking at the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/speakers-and-entertainment\/#lyra\">entertainment schedule<\/a>, we can personally recommend the Steel Cut Band, whom we heard performing a couple of years ago.<\/p>\n<p>However, the Lyra Quartet may just become another new favorite.\u00a0 They&#8217;re an a cappella group who have been performing together since 2013&#8211;and they&#8217;re the opening set for the Festival.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7775\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7775\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7775\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/st-barbara-monastery2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"521\" \/><\/a>Two cautionary notes here&#8211;watch out for the bees!\u00a0 With lavender everywhere, bees love it (who can blame them?).\u00a0 Also, traffic does get heavy&#8211;you&#8217;ll want to find parking early and be careful crossing the streets.\u00a0 Cars can back up unexpectedly, midstream (as one did during our previous visit), so please be safe.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11172\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11172\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11172\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/trolley1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/trolley1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/trolley1-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/trolley1-354x300.jpg 354w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>In addition to checking out the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, I certainly recommend taking the trolley (across the street from Libbey Park) to see the town, if you can.\u00a0 This travels in a circle around Ojai; it&#8217;s a great ride.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9784\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9784\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9784\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-300x263.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-342x300.jpg 342w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h5><em>The fourteenth annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival runs from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday, June 24th, in Libbey Park, at South Signal Street near West Ojai Avenue.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11142\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11031\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; Springing into Pasadena<\/a>  April 28, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11033\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11033\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11033\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg\" alt=\"Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sign outside Pasadena's Central Park\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Jackalope-sign11-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Pasadena&#8217;s expecting a &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; in Central Park this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>And it&#8217;s going to be full of color, motion, talent&#8211;and fun.<\/p>\n<p>As an independent-artisan fair, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a> is so much more than shopping.<\/p>\n<p>Sure, it&#8217;s a juried, all-handmade show with free admission.\u00a0 And the Spring 2017 edition, in Pasadena, will have more than 200 local artists onsite, this Saturday and Sunday.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8575\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8575\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8575\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>But when co-founders Sara Diederich and Melissa Shipley started Jackalope in 2015, they envisioned it as a chance for attendees to meet and interact with the artisans behind all the &#8220;cool stuff&#8221;.\u00a0\u00a0 With Spring and Fall shows in Sara and Melissa&#8217;s respective home cities of Pasadena and Denver, Jackalope tends to be a weekend-long celebration of creativity.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8594\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8594\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8594\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshop-tent11-e1447486352201.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"486\" \/><\/a>This weekend&#8217;s Jackalope Art and Craft Fair will include glass demonstrations by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bullseyeglass.com\/\">Bullseye Glass Resource Center<\/a>.\u00a0 Gifted acoustic musician Meesha Black will be performing onsite, throughout the weekend.\u00a0 And anyone who wants to get moving&#8211;and\/or get creative&#8211;will have plenty of opportunities!<\/p>\n<p>During the first hour of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\">Jackalope Fair<\/a>, 10 to 11 am Saturday and Sunday mornings, visitors will get to take part in the &#8220;Coloring Pop-Up Party&#8221; for little kids and us big kids.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8591\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8591\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8591\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"545\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-300x273.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-330x300.jpg 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Hula hooping workshops with Jennifer Jensen, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eclectichoops.com\/\">Eclectic Hoops<\/a>, will be happening throughout the weekend.\u00a0 And if jewelry making, painting, crafting dreams catchers or creating terrariums is a project you&#8217;ve always wanted to try, you&#8217;ll get that opportunity, for a small fee. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=11054\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-11054\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11054\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/lotsof-tents.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/lotsof-tents.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/lotsof-tents-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/lotsof-tents-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Adding to the air of general festivity will be the food trucks.\u00a0 While the chance to visit with the artisans is the best part, for me, I still had the best cinnamon coffee I&#8217;ve ever tasted at Jackalope, during their Fall 2015 fair, courtesy of one of the visiting food trucks.<\/p>\n<p>This spring, the listed food trucks include Greenz on Wheelz&#8217; healthy delectables, Slammin&#8217; Sliders&#8217; tempting offerings (kobe mushrooms? Lobster? <em>YUM<\/em>.) and Contra Coffee and Tea&#8217;s artisanal brews.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8593\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8593\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8593\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-11-e1447486254104.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>And what kind of treasures are you likely to find?\u00a0 Too many to list, but a sense of freshness and fun prevails at Jackalope.\u00a0 Just a couple of the vendors who caught my eye with their intriguing creations are <a href=\"http:\/\/dotsdaughterdesigns.com\/\">Dot&#8217;s Daughter Designs<\/a> (big, bold flowers and striking figures in warm colors on &#8220;future collectible&#8221; greeting cards); <a href=\"http:\/\/www.indierepublicdesign.com\/collections\/clothing\">Indie Republic Design<\/a> (ohhh, that ruffled black bodysuit!) and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/bootsraven22\">Boots Raven&#8217;s<\/a> vibrant-colored<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/bootsraven22\"> g<\/a>eometric earrings.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s also an exciting new addition to this year&#8217;s Pasadena Jackalope Art and Craft Fair.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8570\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>As of 2017, they emailed, they&#8217;re partnering with the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.downtownwomenscenter.org\/\">Downtown Women&#8217;s Center<\/a> (DWC) to promote their mission of ending the cycle of poverty and homelessness for Skid Row women.\u00a0 Jackalope attendees will get to see the MADE by DWC booth, with items created by program participants in collaboration with community artists.\u00a0 Both the Information Booth and the DWC Booth will be accepting donations if you would like to help support DWC, which provides a 12-week job training program and work experience to program participants.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8573\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8573\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8573\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/in-the-park1-e1447482581531.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>Jackalope 2017, Spring edition, is looking fantastic already!\u00a0 (And please note&#8211;if you&#8217;re not in the Pasadena area this weekend, the next show <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/denver\/\">happens in Denver in July<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<h4><em>Jackalope Art and Craft Fair happens this Saturday and Sunday, April 29th and 30th, from 10 am to 5 pm at Central Park, located between Fair Oaks Avenue, East Dayton Street, Del Mar Boulevard and Raymond Avenue in Old Pasadena.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h4>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=11031\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10966\">TCG Celebrates Springtime Creativity<\/a>  March 17, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10027\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10027\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10027\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"473\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1-300x237.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/yellow-flowers1-381x300.jpg 381w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Looking for something fun to slip into an Easter basket?\u00a0 Or a Mother&#8217;s Day gift, birthday gift or, very possibly, your favorite &#8220;indie&#8221; author&#8217;s latest book?<\/p>\n<p>Look no further than Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild, Saturday morning at 10.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10970\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10970\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Arts-ad-Crafts-Faire12-500x285.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>This Saturday marks their eighteenth annual &#8220;Spring Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>More than sixty talented artisans will be on hand, offering three exhibit areas full of\u00a0 all-handcrafted special things, including ceramics, art glass, fabric art and candles.\u00a0 Music by DJ Ozzie always adds to the festive atmosphere, and there will be both door prize and opportunity drawings.\u00a0\u00a0 Best of all, Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s annual shows support a great cause: scholarships for local high school students with an interest in arts and crafts!<\/p>\n<p>Looking at TCG&#8217;s Facebook page for additional new favorite artists, I&#8217;m loving <a href=\"http:\/\/www.kardsbyangie.com\/default.html\">Kards By Angie&#8217;s<\/a> handcrafted greeting cards (wow, the <em>shoes<\/em>!),.and Susie Yarian&#8217;s wind chimes, especially. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10272\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10272\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10272\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Krystina12-392x300.jpg 392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And did you know that Krystina Kyle, of <a href=\"http:\/\/funwithpretend.com\/\">Fun With Pretend<\/a>, is a multiple award-winner for her fabric dolls&#8211;and takes custom orders? Ask her to show you her mermaid doll!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10974\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10974\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10974\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Angie1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Angie1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Angie1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Not to be missed, as well, are the independent authors.\u00a0 Talented storyteller <a href=\"http:\/\/dreamsthruwords.weebly.com\/\">Evangeline Duran Fuentes<\/a> can make Mexican folktales, sign language <em>and <\/em>Christmas in a strange town all accessible and welcoming to her readers, in three of her most recent books!\u00a0 (Those would be <em>Cry on Hallows&#8217; Eve<\/em>, <em>Feel the Sound<\/em> and <em>A Tumbleweed Christmas<\/em>, respectively.)\u00a0 Her children&#8217;s books are enough to open any young person&#8217;s eyes to the magical journey that is reading.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10945\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10945\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10945\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-with-her-new-book1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And thank goodness the show happens on a Saturday!\u00a0 Author <a href=\"http:\/\/www.keyboardmusings.com\/store\/c1\/Featured_Products.html\">Barbara Lieberman<\/a> is introducing her latest book, <em>Love in the Middle, <\/em>at this particular crafts fair.\u00a0 There goes sleep! \u00a0 (I tried reading &#8220;just one chapter&#8221; of her second book <em>To Reap a Whirlwind<\/em> in bed.\u00a0 Two hours later..I was still &#8220;hooked&#8221;&#8211;and no closer to turning out the light!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10910\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10910\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10910\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-and-Ellie1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-and-Ellie1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-and-Ellie1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Barb-and-Ellie1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>When you go, be sure to ask Barb and equally-gifted author <a href=\"http:\/\/ellielieberman.weebly.com\/\">Ellie Lieberman<\/a> about their latest artistic collaboration: their brand-new all-indie bookstore, set to open on May 6th!\u00a0 (Here&#8217;s a link to a <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10908\">sneak preview<\/a>, but they&#8217;ll certainly do a better job of describing what&#8217;s going to be happening at their small-press, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pipeandthimble.com\/\">Pipe and Thimble Publishing<\/a>!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10969\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10969\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10969\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/chef-bear1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/chef-bear1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/chef-bear1-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/chef-bear1-404x300.jpg 404w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And check out Barb and Ellie&#8217;s new miniatures: their &#8220;Pipe and Thimble Bears&#8221;, in honor of their brand-new venture!\u00a0 Here&#8217;s just one, their &#8220;chef bear&#8221;, but these cute miniature teddy bears come in all kinds of themes&#8211;including fairy tales and other professions, such as firefighters!<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s a spotlight on half a dozen of the exhibitors who&#8217;ll be on site on Saturday, but you&#8217;re sure to find many more favorites.\u00a0 See you there!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Torrance Craftsmen\u2019s Guild\u2019s 18th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire runs from 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday, March 18th, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Madrona Drive, at Torrance Boulevard and Madrona.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10966\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10718\">Promises of Spring<\/a>  January 20, 2017<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9599\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9599\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9599\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/yellow-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/yellow-flowers1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/yellow-flowers1-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/yellow-flowers1-390x300.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>OK.\u00a0 So today&#8217;s been a windy, cold and rainy Friday in Southern California.<\/p>\n<p>But, we&#8217;ve just seen some harbingers of spring.<\/p>\n<p>Robins, daffodils, wild violets and hyacinths?\u00a0 No&#8211;even better.<\/p>\n<p>Three major juried fairs are currently accepting applications for all-handmade vendors.\u00a0 Here are their dates and information!<\/p>\n<h1><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10731\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10731\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10731\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sheryl-and-dianne-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sheryl-and-dianne-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sheryl-and-dianne-1-300x228.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sheryl-and-dianne-1-395x300.jpg 395w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/\">Glitterfest!<\/a><\/h1>\n<p><strong>Show date: March 19, 2017 in Fullerton.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Described as a &#8220;mixed-media art festival&#8221;, this is a fantastic gathering of both vintage collectables and unique handcrafted items.\u00a0\u00a0 Vendors seem to have as much fun being creative with their glittery tables, as with their handcrafted offerings.\u00a0 And fans obviously feel the same way.\u00a0 We had to wait in line outside, before the doors opened, at the most recent <a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/\">Glitterfest!<\/a> we attended!<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m not sure &#8220;vintage collectables&#8221; does justice to some of the glass Christmas ornaments, violet-patterned English teacups and the 1950s-era typewriter we saw on display when we attended.\u00a0 Maybe the magic of this show is in the mix!\u00a0 These items can show up right alongside a vendor&#8217;s brand-new, hand-tooled leather purses, woven beadwork or folk-art ceramics.\u00a0 But talented founding sisters Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White certainly get it right&#8211;and seem to have a great time with all the talent and glitter.<\/p>\n<h6><strong>Deadline: Glitterfest!\u00a0 is accepting applications through March 1, 2017.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/application\">link to apply<\/a>.<\/strong><\/h6>\n<h1><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9603\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9603\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9603\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/pasadena\/\">Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair Pasadena<\/a><\/h1>\n<p><strong>Show dates: April 29th and 30th, in Pasadena.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A relatively-new show, started in 2015 by a team of three talented maker\/entrepreneurs, Jackalope has been drawing more than 200 vendors, twice a year, to Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.\u00a0 (And since co-founders Sara Diederich and Melissa Shipley are from Pasadena and Denver, respectively, they also host fairs twice yearly, in Denver.\u00a0 The next Rocky Mountain-setting Jackalope Fair happens in July.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8572\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8572\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8572\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"5888\" height=\"3312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg 5888w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 5888px) 100vw, 5888px\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8571\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8571\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8571\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshop-tent1-e1447482513247.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"486\" \/><\/a>A definite strong point for Jackalope Fair are their hands-on art workshops, both for kids and &#8220;big kids&#8221;.\u00a0 And that&#8217;s in addition to all the unique, high-quality handmade creations (we found one artisan who took 1960s string art and made it her own, a metalworker with Christmas ornaments and personal Yetis among our previous show favorites!)<\/p>\n<h6>Deadline: February 17th.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/applypasadena\">link to apply.<\/a>\u00a0 They actually had &#8220;early-bird&#8221; applications on January 2nd&#8211;I&#8217;ll have to tell you about this one a little sooner, next time!<\/h6>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h6><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10732\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10732\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10732\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"431\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/butterfly-in-flowers1-418x300.jpg 418w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h6>\n<h1><a href=\"http:\/\/makerfaire.com\/bay-area\/call-for-makers\/\"><strong>Maker Faire Bay Area <\/strong><\/a><\/h1>\n<h4>Show dates: May 19-21, 2017, in San Mateo.<\/h4>\n<p>This is not a standard &#8220;crafts fair&#8221; as much as a maker showcase, with all kinds of cool DIY stuff from makers of all ages.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/sanfranciscobazaar.org\/\">San Francisco Bazaar<\/a> happens in conjunction with this one, with more than 80 artisans exhibiting.\u00a0 However, San Francisco Bazaar&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/sanfranciscobazaar.org\/shows\/makerfaire\/\">web page says<\/a> they will open for applications soon, while Maker Faire Bay Area has issued their <a href=\"http:\/\/makerfaire.com\/bay-area\/call-for-makers\/\">&#8220;Call for Makers&#8221;<\/a> <em>now.\u00a0 <\/em>As I check with San Francisco Bazaar, I&#8217;ll err on the side of caution by giving you deadlines for Maker Faire applications.\u00a0 They list &#8220;crafters&#8221; among the DIY exhibitors for whom they&#8217;re looking, and their deadlines are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h6><em>First round of applications: Open through 11:59 pm, February 12, 2017.<\/em><\/h6>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h6><em>Second round of applications: Open through 11:59 pm, February 19, 2017.<\/em><\/h6>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h6>\u00a0<em>After that second deadline, they&#8217;ll review applications based on available space.<\/em><\/h6>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Get busy, have fun, and good luck!\u00a0 Hope to see you at the fairs this spring.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10718\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10445\">Talent and Warmth<\/a>  November 20, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10452\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10452\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10452\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-outside1.jpg\" alt=\"faire-outside1\" width=\"600\" height=\"418\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-outside1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-outside1-300x209.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-outside1-431x300.jpg 431w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Approximately ninety gifted all-handmade vendors, plus music and food.<\/p>\n<p>Did you just exclaim, <em>&#8220;Where?!?&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If you did, I can&#8217;t blame you&#8211;and they&#8217;ll be back on Sunday.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10453\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10453\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10453\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/overall121.jpg\" alt=\"overall121\" width=\"600\" height=\"346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/overall121.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/overall121-300x173.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/overall121-500x288.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>This was the scene, Saturday at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/images\/TCG_FALL_flier_2016_082316.jpg\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 47th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire<\/a>, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10454\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10454\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10454\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/more-crafts-closeup1.jpg\" alt=\"more-crafts-closeup1\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/more-crafts-closeup1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/more-crafts-closeup1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>Three rooms filled with beautiful jewelry, pottery, lots of Christmas ornaments, clothing and graphics were enough to weaken the resolve of the most stalwart, &#8220;I-have-plenty-of-Christmas-gifts-bought-already-and-don&#8217;t-need-anything-else&#8221; browser.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10455\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10455\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10455\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/fair-at-a-distance1.jpg\" alt=\"fair-at-a-distance1\" width=\"600\" height=\"410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/fair-at-a-distance1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/fair-at-a-distance1-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/fair-at-a-distance1-439x300.jpg 439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Because, of course, there are exhibitors on the plaza and outside the entrance, too.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10268\" style=\"width: 347px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10268\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10268\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10268\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10268\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mermaid-Doll.jpg\" alt=\"Mermaid doll\u00a9 2016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.\" width=\"337\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mermaid-Doll.jpg 337w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mermaid-Doll-169x300.jpg 169w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 337px) 100vw, 337px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10268\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mermaid doll\u00a9 2016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>As mentioned before, I love Krystina Kyle&#8217;s award-winning handcrafted dolls, which she sells through her small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.funwithpretend.com\/\">Fun With Pretend<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>When we visited on Saturday, she had gingerbread people she had sewn&#8211;because her son really loves the classic story, &#8220;The Gingerbread Man&#8221;.\u00a0 I won&#8217;t ruin a surprise, but if you happen to buy one of her gingerbread dolls to go with your Christmas decor, even the box in which she&#8217;ll pack the doll is clever and creative!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10469\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10469\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10469\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-book1.jpg\" alt=\"angie-with-her-book1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-book1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-book1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-book1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>In December, we&#8217;ll be featuring a conversation with <a href=\"http:\/\/dreamsthruwords.weebly.com\/\">Evangeline Duran Fuentes, who\u00a0 is an incredible storyteller<\/a>.\u00a0 She was exhibiting her children&#8217;s book, <em>Waggles<\/em>, with another children&#8217;s book forthcoming within the next week&#8211;and a new novel coming out early next year.\u00a0 (And you&#8217;ll love her Christmas book, <em>A Tumbleweed Christmas<\/em>, based on her experiences in Texas as her kids were growing up.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10471\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10471\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10471\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1.jpg\" alt=\"angie-with-her-bracelet12\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Angie-with-her-bracelet12-1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>But we haven&#8217;t said a word yet about her sparkly bracelets, which she sells through her small business <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/alluringbydesign\">Alluring By Design.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Evangeline uses Swarovski crystals to create cuff bracelets that would be fun to wear for an evening out or any special occasion, and are&#8211;well, completely alluring.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10460\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10460\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10460\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/selfies1.jpg\" alt=\"selfies1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/selfies1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/selfies1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/selfies1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Who else did we especially like?\u00a0 Who <em>didn&#8217;t<\/em> we!\u00a0 But due to limited space, here are just a few favorites:<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10457\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10457\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10457\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dani23.jpg\" alt=\"dani23\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dani23.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dani23-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>I love the name, <em>and<\/em> the Christmas stockings!\u00a0 Danielle Fowler, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sumtingprty\/\">Sumtinprty Crochet,\u00a0 <\/a>had an exhibit of festive-looking stockings and other granny-square-inspired creations.\u00a0 AND she takes custom orders!<\/p>\n<p>In the first room we saw was Robyn Wellman, of <a href=\"http:\/\/youniqueornaments.indiemade.com\/\">Younique Ornaments.\u00a0 <\/a>She comes up with ornament designs that would look like patchwork&#8211;if patchwork could sparkle.\u00a0 Robyn says crafting each of her ornaments takes her several hours.<\/p>\n<p>On the subject of sparkling and shining&#8211;Donna Gary, of Donna&#8217;s Designs, excels in that department!\u00a0 I completely fell in love with her stylish scarves and wraps.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10476\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10476\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10476\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/talent-times-three1.jpg\" alt=\"talent-times-three1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/talent-times-three1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/talent-times-three1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/talent-times-three1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And who <em>wouldn&#8217;t<\/em> be inspired&#8211;even as she&#8217;s losing sleep while staying up to read &#8220;just one more chapter&#8221;?\u00a0 That&#8217;s been a hallmark of author <a href=\"http:\/\/www.keyboardmusings.com\/\">Barb Lieberman&#8217;s fiction books<\/a> in the past.\u00a0 Multitalented Barb (r), crafts all kinds of<a href=\"http:\/\/www.keyboardmusings.com\/store\/c1\/Featured_Products.html\"> cool book swag<\/a> and has just published <em>a <\/em>moving and deeply personal new nonfiction book, <em>The Unchained Spirit<\/em>.\u00a0 Just a few pages in so far&#8211;and already it&#8217;s reached out its pages to grab me&#8211;sleep will just have to wait.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, when you stop by Barb&#8217;s booth, you&#8217;ll also get to meet <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops<\/a> proprietor Ellie Lieberman (center), author of the new book <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Ellie-Lieberman\/e\/B00ZQ5ROYE\">Solving For X, <\/a>and one of the featured contributors to the dragon anthology <em>A Horde of Dragons. \u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Ellie&#8217;s previous book, <em>Society&#8217;s Foundlings<\/em>, tells a story of very dark circumstances in such a way that the beauty shines through (and I don&#8217;t know how she does that, but it&#8217;s a great read).<\/p>\n<p>Also, Ellie crafts enchanting fairy doors, fairy bottles and fairy houses&#8211;and she&#8217;s starting to make a new batch of them!<\/p>\n<p>A third gifted artist at the booth?\u00a0 Jessica Johnson, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jessiejinspirations.com\/\">Jessie J Inspirations (l).<\/a>\u00a0 In addition to her imaginative and beautiful graphics, now Jessica is sewing some of the Seeds of Inspiration&#8217;s sachets and other cool fiber-art creations!\u00a0 (Those standup green Christmas trees are a personal favorite.)<\/p>\n<p>(<em>And<\/em>&#8211;Barb has some wonderful news!\u00a0 Can&#8217;t tell you much more about it yet, but I&#8217;ll certainly be filling you in on the details in the future.\u00a0 Think &#8220;creative&#8221;, &#8220;exciting&#8221; and &#8220;encouraging in 2017&#8221;, and you&#8217;ll be on the right track.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10486\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10486\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10486\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-today.jpg\" alt=\"faire-today\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-today.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-today-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Faire-today-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Congratulations to Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild on another fun, almost-Thanksgiving craft faire with a festive atmosphere!\u00a0 Their Christmas music, courtesy of DJ Ozzie, had us humming along, they were hosting a charity raffle and the whole event had a warm sense of community!\u00a0 And if you&#8217;re in Southern California and would like to see some of this firsthand, today&#8217;s your chance.\u00a0 Their 2016 &#8220;Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire&#8221; is open for its second and final day, Sunday, November 20th at 9 am.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Torrance Craftsmen\u2019s Guild\u2019s 47th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair&#8217;s second day happens Sunday, November 20th, from 9 am to 4 pm, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 Torrance Cultural Arts Center is located at 3330 Civic Center Drive, at Torrance and Madrona.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10445\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10425\">Time to Get &#8220;Crafty&#8221; &#8211; Part 2<\/a>  November 19, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10429\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10429\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10429\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmen-Guild_edited-2.jpg\" alt=\"torrance-craftsmen-guild_edited-2\" width=\"600\" height=\"471\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmen-Guild_edited-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmen-Guild_edited-2-300x236.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmen-Guild_edited-2-382x300.jpg 382w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>&#8216;Tis the season!\u00a0\u00a0 OK, technically we have to have the turkey first.\u00a0 But now is a great time to think of Christmas shopping, with a lot of help from talented indie &#8220;artrepreneurs&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>With that in mind, here&#8217;s another round of upcoming craft fairs, happening in the next few weeks. .<\/p>\n<p>This weekend&#8217;s a &#8220;biggie&#8221;: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/craftfairs.html\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s<\/a> 47th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire happens this Saturday and Sunday, November 19th and 20th!\u00a0 Besides showcasing more than ninety talented exhibitors, they&#8217;ll have music by DJ Ozzie, a drawing for door prizes, and, of course, food.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10267\" style=\"width: 347px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10267\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10267\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10267\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10267\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mushroom-Pixie.jpg\" alt=\"Mushroom Pixie doll \u00a92016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.\" width=\"337\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mushroom-Pixie.jpg 337w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mushroom-Pixie-169x300.jpg 169w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 337px) 100vw, 337px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10267\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mushroom Pixie doll \u00a92016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve already given you the heads-up that gifted Krystina Kyle, of<a href=\"http:\/\/funwithpretend.com\/\"> Fun With Pretend,<\/a> will be there with her award-winning handcrafted dolls.\u00a0 But, did I mention&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10430\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10430\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10430\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Barb-and-Ellie-at-CRAFTED1.jpg\" alt=\"barb-and-ellie-at-crafted1\" width=\"561\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Barb-and-Ellie-at-CRAFTED1.jpg 561w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Barb-and-Ellie-at-CRAFTED1-281x300.jpg 281w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 561px) 100vw, 561px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;that artist\/author Barb Lieberman, of <a href=\"http:\/\/seeds2inspire.tumblr.com\/\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a>, and author\/artist Ellie Lieberman of <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops<\/a>, have a brand-new publishing company?\u00a0\u00a0 Their new joint venture, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PipeandThimblePublishing\/?pnref=lhc\">Pipe &amp; Thimble Publishing<\/a>, is founded on the idea that all authors and artists should be treated with respect and fairness.\u00a0 Can&#8217;t wait to see some of their new selections!<\/p>\n<p>In addition, this year&#8217;s flyer is dangling temptation in front of our noses.\u00a0 Cute handmade greeting cards, beaded Christmas ornaments, mosaic fused glass and modern-art silver pendant are just four of the offerings that may leave you quietly smiling to yourself as you watch the &#8220;Black Friday&#8221; insanity from a safe distance.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 47th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair runs Saturday and Sunday, November 19th and 20th.\u00a0 Hours are 9 am to 4 pm, both days, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, at Torrance and Madrona.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>Meanwhile, up north&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7563\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7563\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7563\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2.jpg\" alt=\"renegade sign2\" width=\"489\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2.jpg 489w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2-209x300.jpg 209w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 489px) 100vw, 489px\" \/><\/a>The 2016\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">Renegade Craft Fai Holiday Tour<\/a> is in San Francisco this weekend!\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have 300 vendors onsite at Fort Mason Center&#8217;s Festival Pavilion, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/fairs\/sanfrancisco-2016-holiday\">website<\/a>.\u00a0 I&#8217;m especially loving the cards, albums and Christmas ornaments by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cardtorial.com\/\">Cardtorial<\/a>; <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/EmilyGutmanQuiltShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu\">Emily Gutman Quilt Shop&#8217;s <\/a>rainbow-striped baby quilts, and that cute jewelry by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.seoullittle.com\/collections\/earrings\">Seoul Little.<\/a> (Hashtag stud earrings?\u00a0 Clever!)<\/p>\n<p>In addition, they&#8217;ll be featuring\u00a0 DIY workshops,\u00a0 music by DJRedLite, and food and drink to tempt just about everybody.<\/p>\n<h5><em>The Renegade Craft Fair, San Francisco, happens at Fort Mason Festival Pavilion, at 2 Marina Boulevard (just east of Laguna and north of Bay Street),\u00a0 from 11 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday, November 19th and 20th.\u00a0 Admission is free.\u00a0 Their website warns that parking lots onsite are open to the public but have limited capacity; you may want to think about walking, biking or taking public transit.\u00a0 (After all, everything&#8217;s close to everything, in San Francisco!)<\/em><\/h5>\n<h6><\/h6>\n<h6><em>Meanwhile, if you&#8217;re in Southern California&#8211;your turn&#8217;s coming!\u00a0 Renegade Craft Fair Los Angeles is coming up Saturday and Sunday, December 10th and 11th, in Grand Park, near West First and South Grand Avenue.\u00a0 Hours will be 10 am to 5 pm, both days, and admission&#8217;s free.<\/em><\/h6>\n<h6><\/h6>\n<p>And finally, <em>next<\/em> weekend?<\/p>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7584\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7584\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7584\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork show booth\" width=\"700\" height=\"453\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/em>The Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival makes one more winter appearance, in Southern California, on Sunday, November 27th. \u00a0 (That&#8217;s Sunday after Thanksgiving, of course, so this is a great opportunity to walk off all that turkey!) <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7589\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7589\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7589\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork4\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>It&#8217;s also a great time.\u00a0 Their vendors are selected by jury, and they always have a fantastic variety of scented soaps, jewelry, ceramics and much more.\u00a0 My particular weakness is the artisan sweets, and those handcrafted marshmallows and fudge would make great gifts for anyone with a sweet tooth.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, they&#8217;re sure to have music, crafts and an overall festive atmosphere, as Patchwork Show &#8220;comes home&#8221;.\u00a0 The show&#8217;s happening in Santa Ana&#8211;the site of the first-ever Patchwork Show.<\/p>\n<h6><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival happens Sunday, November 27th, from 11 am to 5 pm at 2nd and Sycamore Streets, in Santa Ana.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h6>\n<p>That&#8217;s our roundup of crafts festivals for now.\u00a0 Enjoy, and a very Happy pre-Thanksgiving week to you and yours.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10425\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10329\">Sharing Talent, Reaching Out<\/a>  November 15, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10346\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10346\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10346\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-entrance1.jpg\" alt=\"yes4arts-entrance1\" width=\"600\" height=\"383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-entrance1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-entrance1-300x192.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-entrance1-470x300.jpg 470w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>&#8220;Grab a hook and a ball of yarn,&#8221; directed <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/\">yes4arts <\/a>volunteer Susana Ethial.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10347\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10347\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10347\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-free-classes1.jpg\" alt=\"yes4arts-free-classes1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-free-classes1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-free-classes1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/yes4arts-free-classes1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>It was Sunday morning, at yes4arts&#8217; first Winter Holiday Fair.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10355\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10355\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10355\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/class-area-23.jpg\" alt=\"class-area-23\" width=\"600\" height=\"462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/class-area-23.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/class-area-23-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/class-area-23-390x300.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>The workshop area at Torrance Cultural Arts Center awaited students in knitting, sewing and crochet.\u00a0 Numerous fiber artists were on hand to share their expertise.\u00a0 And lessons were free.<\/p>\n<p>(That&#8217;s in keeping with the mission of yes4arts, a nonprofit organization which designer Paula Bennett started in 2015.\u00a0 They say it best on their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/\">website<\/a>: they&#8217;re &#8220;dedicated to inspiring and empowering people through free fiber art classes&#8221;.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10353\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10353\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10353\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Susana-demonstrating2.jpg\" alt=\"susana-demonstrating2\" width=\"600\" height=\"562\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Susana-demonstrating2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Susana-demonstrating2-300x281.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Susana-demonstrating2-320x300.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Susana, who is the proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ethialcrochet\/?fref=ts\">Ethial&#8217;s Crochet<\/a>, says on her Facebook page that she can teach anyone the art of crochet.\u00a0 She proved that statement in about twenty minutes.<\/p>\n<p>Now, understand&#8211;this reporter grew up with needle arts.\u00a0 But my mom was left-handed.\u00a0 So although she could teach right-handed knitting, crochet remained a backwards mystery.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10351\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10351\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10351\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/first-crochet-upclose1.jpg\" alt=\"first-crochet-upclose1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/first-crochet-upclose1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/first-crochet-upclose1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/first-crochet-upclose1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Thanks to Susana and yes4arts, that statement is no longer true.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, over in the sewing area, Debra Knox and Elaine Geanakopoulos were teaching quilting skills.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10356\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10356\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10356\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-sewing1.jpg\" alt=\"debra-sewing1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-sewing1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-sewing1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-sewing1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8220;I used to hate sewing,&#8221; Debra commented.\u00a0 During her school years, she said, shop classes were more of interest to her&#8211;but they were only for boys.\u00a0 Girls had to learn home economics.\u00a0 (Ugh, those <em>weren&#8217;t<\/em> the &#8220;good old days&#8221;!\u00a0 In my hometown in the 1960s, girls had to sew kerchiefs and aprons.\u00a0 Boys got to make cool things like door knockers and key holders.\u00a0 No wonder she was bored!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10357\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10357\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10357\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-quilt2.jpg\" alt=\"debra-with-her-quilt2\" width=\"600\" height=\"443\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-quilt2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-quilt2-300x222.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-quilt2-406x300.jpg 406w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Quilting, though, would change her mind&#8211;and engage her creativity.<\/p>\n<p>Debra said she began quilting about five years ago.\u00a0 Today, she&#8217;s program chair of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.easysite.com\/aaqla\">African American Quilters of Los Angeles<\/a>.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10358\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10358\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10358\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-pattern2.jpg\" alt=\"debra-with-her-pattern2\" width=\"428\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-pattern2.jpg 428w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Debra-with-her-pattern2-214x300.jpg 214w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px\" \/><\/a>Here&#8217;s the pattern on which she&#8217;s currently working.\u00a0 Debra says this one was inspired by an African painting.\u00a0 (Would you like to see the completed quilt?\u00a0 You may just get that opportunity! Debra was giving out &#8220;Save the Date&#8221;\u00a0 flyers for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.easysite.com\/aaqla\">African American Quilters of Los Angeles&#8217; <\/a>2017 show, which happens November 4, 2017!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10359\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10359\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10359\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine21.jpg\" alt=\"elaine21\" width=\"600\" height=\"430\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine21.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine21-300x215.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine21-419x300.jpg 419w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8220;Come and enjoy,&#8221; invited Elaine, as she displayed this kimono she had created.\u00a0 (It&#8217;s an award-winner in the 2015 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.hoffmanchallengetravelexhibit.com\/\">Hoffman Challenge Trunk Show<\/a>!\u00a0 Debra emailed that this win means the kimono traveled for a full year as part of the Hoffman Challenge&#8217;s exhibit of winners.)<\/p>\n<p>Elaine&#8217;s invitation referred to her free community quilt workshop, which she teaches every Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon, in Inglewood.\u00a0 And beginners are both welcome and encouraged.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Students make a quilt to start with,&#8221; she explained.\u00a0 &#8220;I like to work with good quality fabrics: cotton, for the beginners.\u00a0 Cotton is very forgiving.&#8221;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10360\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10360\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10360\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine31.jpg\" alt=\"elaine31\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine31.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine31-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Elaine31-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Quality, she explained, had been a cornerstone of her training as an art major in college, where her areas of expertise included ceramics, textiles <em>and<\/em> metalworking.\u00a0 &#8220;My professor said the quality of your piece is determined by the quality of your supplies.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Elaine said she started her workshop about five years ago, and she teaches a small group.\u00a0 Between one and nine students come in weekly.\u00a0 (Her workshop happens from noon to 3 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3320 West Manchester, in Inglewood.)<\/p>\n<p>Like yes4arts, Elaine asks nothing in return for her time and expertise.\u00a0 However,\u00a0 donations of materials and equipment are welcome.\u00a0 &#8220;I love sewing machines (and) fabrics (if people want to donate),&#8221; she said.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10361\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10361\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10361\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Jamie23.jpg\" alt=\"jamie23\" width=\"600\" height=\"456\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Jamie23.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Jamie23-300x228.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Jamie23-395x300.jpg 395w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>At another table in the class area, artist Jamie Armenta was teaching kids to make dolls.\u00a0 These dolls, she explained, are the same type as those made in the Renaissance!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10362\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10362\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10362\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Renaissance-dolls2_edited-2.jpg\" alt=\"renaissance-dolls2_edited-2\" width=\"555\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Renaissance-dolls2_edited-2.jpg 555w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Renaissance-dolls2_edited-2-278x300.jpg 278w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 555px) 100vw, 555px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10366\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10366\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10366\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Roberta-and.Polly1_.jpg\" alt=\"roberta-and-polly1\" width=\"600\" height=\"468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Roberta-and.Polly1_.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Roberta-and.Polly1_-300x234.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Roberta-and.Polly1_-385x300.jpg 385w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Nearby, designers Roberta Barry (l) and Polly Martens (r) were ready to teach sewing classes.\u00a0 Polly is the proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/radishlady-designs.myshopify.com\/\">Radishlady Designs,<\/a> through which she sells fun fashion accessories (her Pokemon bags are adorable!).\u00a0 Roberta crafts striking quilted lap rugs, coasters, zipper bags and more through her small business <a href=\"http:\/\/rsewcute.com\/craft-items.html\">R Sew Cute.\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p>And both Roberta and Polly have booths located at<a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\"> CRAFTED<\/a>, in San Pedro.\u00a0 Normally, you can find Roberta at CRAFTED&#8217;s Booth 143 and Poly at Booth 148, Fridays through Sundays in this year-round handmade marketplace..<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10368\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10368\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10368\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/plaza1.jpg\" alt=\"plaza1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/plaza1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/plaza1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/plaza1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>While yes4arts taught fiber arts classes as a feature of their fundraiser Winter Holiday Fair, they also had music, food and a number of vendors, showcasing their creations.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10371\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10371\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10371\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace32-1.jpg\" alt=\"mystery-mace32\" width=\"600\" height=\"462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace32-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace32-1-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace32-1-390x300.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>One of the first exhibits we saw was<a href=\"http:\/\/www.mysterymace.com\/\"> Mystery Mace.\u00a0<\/a> Company CEO Tracy de los Santos, COO Yiting Lin\u00a0 and Sales Manager Kevin Leach explained that they were selling this product through a ten-week entrepreneurship program at their school.\u00a0 (They all attend the University of La Verne, and Tracy emailed, after the event, that they have four weeks left in the program.<\/p>\n<p>Mystery Mace is pepper spray, disguised in glittery silver, gold or pink tubes that look like lipsticks.\u00a0\u00a0 Their marketing line is, &#8220;Your safety, beautified.&#8221;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10372\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10372\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10372\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace-crew1.jpg\" alt=\"mystery-mace-crew1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace-crew1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace-crew1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Mystery-Mace-crew1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Tracy, Yiting and Kevin said all proceeds from Mystery Mace get donated to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.laurashouse.org\/\">Laura&#8217;s House<\/a>, an Orange County women&#8217;s emergency shelter.\u00a0 But the program ends after ten weeks and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Mystery-Mace-1184360998266519\/#_=_\">Mystery Mace&#8217;s Facebook page<\/a> says their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mysterymace.com\/\">website<\/a> went up on November 4th.\u00a0 So if you&#8217;d like to know more or support them, you may want to check it out fairly soon.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10350\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10350\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10350\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Kellie-at-her-booth_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"kellie-at-her-booth_edited-1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Kellie-at-her-booth_edited-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Kellie-at-her-booth_edited-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Kellie-at-her-booth_edited-1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>An especially fun vendor at yes4arts&#8217; first Winter Fair was Kellie Schmidt, who has a brand-new small business!\u00a0 Talented Kellie handcrafts lotions, body scrubs and hair serum through her skincare company, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/withlovekellie\">With Love, Kellie<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Rumor has it that she may also be offering a line of handcrafted soaps in the near future.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10376\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10376\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10376\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Vicki-and-Deborah-2.jpg\" alt=\"vicki-and-deborah-2\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Vicki-and-Deborah-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Vicki-and-Deborah-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Vicki-and-Deborah-2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Look at the colors and creativity!\u00a0\u00a0 Deborah Shaphran and Vicky Tonoblo have been ceramic artists since the 1980s.\u00a0 If you think their work here is aptly named (their business is called Truely Terrific), wait till you see their tiles and fused-glass vases!\u00a0 And, in fact, you&#8217;ll get a chance to do that this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>Deborah and Vicki will be hosting their annual Holiday Boutique this weekend, Friday, November 18th through Sunday, November 20th, at 4283 Grand View Boulevard in Los Angeles.\u00a0 Their boutique hours are 9 am &#8211; 6 pm Friday, 9 am &#8211; 4 pm Saturday, and 10 am &#8211; 3 pm Sunday.\u00a0 Admission&#8217;s free; expect to see all kinds of cool creations, including quilts, raku pottery, chimes and pet stuff.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10377\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10377\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10377\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/inside-room2.jpg\" alt=\"inside-room2\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/inside-room2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/inside-room2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/inside-room2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>So far, all the artists we&#8217;ve covered were exhibiting outside on Sunday.\u00a0 That&#8217;s because, inside, all the displays were the result of one person&#8217;s creativity&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10381\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10381\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10381\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-best1.jpg\" alt=\"mannequin-best1\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-best1.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-best1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10388\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10388\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10388\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-details.jpg\" alt=\"mannequin-details\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-details.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-details-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/mannequin-details-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10382\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10382\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10382\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/childs-dress1.jpg\" alt=\"childs-dress1\" width=\"430\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/childs-dress1.jpg 430w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/childs-dress1-215x300.jpg 215w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 430px) 100vw, 430px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10383\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10383\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10383\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dichro5_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"dichro5_edited-1\" width=\"600\" height=\"428\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dichro5_edited-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dichro5_edited-1-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Dichro5_edited-1-421x300.jpg 421w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10385\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10385\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10385\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/jewelry-up-close.jpg\" alt=\"jewelry-up-close\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/jewelry-up-close.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/jewelry-up-close-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/jewelry-up-close-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10389\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10389\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10389\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/lacy1.jpg\" alt=\"lacy1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/lacy1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/lacy1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/lacy1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9544\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9544\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9544\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"Paula from 2015 show_edited-1\" width=\"442\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1.jpg 442w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1-221x300.jpg 221w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 442px) 100vw, 442px\" \/><\/a>..<a href=\"http:\/\/www.crochetfashion.com\/\">.<\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.crochetfashion.com\/\">Paula Crochet Fashion<\/a> designer Paula Bennett,\u00a0 founder of yes4arts, designed and made EVERYTHING in the room: jewelry, dolls, clothing, and more.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10391\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10391\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10391\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/sparkly.jpg\" alt=\"sparkly\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/sparkly.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/sparkly-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/sparkly-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Now, although yes4arts&#8217; first &#8220;Winter Holiday Fair&#8221; was a welcoming gathering of creative artists, you&#8217;ll notice one thing from the pictures.\u00a0 Sadly, attendance was much lower than expected. The unseasonable 80-degree temperatures may have chased people away from Christmasy outdoor events.\u00a0 So might some of the upheaval from last week&#8217;s unexpected turn of events, on Election Day.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10392\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10392\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10392\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/halter2.jpg\" alt=\"halter2\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/halter2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/halter2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/halter2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>But Paula says she will definitely be continuing yes4arts, and her mission of empowering the next generation of fiber artists by sharing her expertise.\u00a0 (And she&#8217;s doing that by putting a new and slinky twist on crochet!\u00a0 She designs halter tops, wedding dresses, evening gowns and much more, and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/paulacrochet\">sells her patterns.<\/a>)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9649\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9649\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9649\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Paula-Bennett-designs-2.jpg\" alt=\"Paula Bennett designs (2)\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Paula-Bennett-designs-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Paula-Bennett-designs-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Paula-Bennett-designs-2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Would you like to support Paula as she preserves the needle arts and inspires others through free fiber-arts classes?\u00a0 Check out <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/\">yes4arts&#8217; link<\/a>.\u00a0 She never charges for classes, but <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Volunteer.html\">volunteers are welcome. <\/a><\/p>\n<p>Better yet, consider coming by to say &#8220;hi&#8221; and see what she&#8217;s created, as she displays her work at the upcoming <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torranceca.gov\/Parks\/Documents\/FLYER_-_CHRISTMAS_BOUTIQUE(1).pdf\">34th Annual Wilson Park Christmas Boutique,<\/a> Sunday, December 11th, 9 am to 4 pm in Torrance.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10329\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10305\">Time to Get &#8220;Crafty&#8221; &#8211; Part 1<\/a>  November 5, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7356\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7356\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7356\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner-e1458336309193.jpg\" alt=\"craft faire banner\" width=\"600\" height=\"394\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>How time does fly&#8211;and it&#8217;s time to have fun.<\/p>\n<p>As in, lots of &#8220;indie&#8221; craft shows are coming up, in the next few weeks!\u00a0 Here are a few you might like to put on your calendar.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, I&#8217;m going to go out of sequence for just a moment.\u00a0 One of our all-time favorite artists is making her &#8220;Holiday Fair&#8221; debut on Sunday, November 13th!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9544\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9544\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9544\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"Paula from 2015 show_edited-1\" width=\"442\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1.jpg 442w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Paula-from-2015-show_edited-1-221x300.jpg 221w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 442px) 100vw, 442px\" \/><\/a>Designer Paula Bennett, founder of nonprofit<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/\"> yes4arts<\/a>, hosts her first <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\"><strong>&#8220;Winter Holiday Fair and Family Fun Day&#8221;<\/strong><\/a> in <strong>Torrance<\/strong> on <strong>Sunday, November 13th<\/strong>.\u00a0 Free knitting, sewing and crocheting workshops (with materials included!),\u00a0 craft vendors, a silent auction, food and entertainment will all be part of the festivities.<\/p>\n<p>Now, if Paula&#8217;s name sounds very familiar&#8211;she&#8217;s the talented artist who&#8217;s taken the &#8220;traditional&#8221; fiber arts and turned them into&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9643\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9643\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9643\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/by-Armani-Nejor2.jpg\" alt=\"by Armani Nejor2\" width=\"600\" height=\"382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/by-Armani-Nejor2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/by-Armani-Nejor2-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/by-Armani-Nejor2-471x300.jpg 471w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;a way to empower the next generation to create their own sleek, sexy designs.<\/p>\n<p>Her goal, with yes4arts, is to preserve the needle arts through free classes&#8211;while sharing skills that can help students become creative entrepreneurs.\u00a0 In return for her time as an instructor, she asks her students to teach others what they&#8217;ve learned.<\/p>\n<p>While this is her premiere &#8220;Holiday Fair&#8221;, Paula is no stranger to planning amazing events.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9655\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9655\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9655\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/cocktail-dress-3.jpg\" alt=\"cocktail dress 3\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/cocktail-dress-3.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/cocktail-dress-3-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>Every spring, she hosts a &#8220;Needle Arts Fashion Show&#8221;, with music, entertainment and crafts as well as a showcase of knitted, crocheted and sewn original designs.<\/p>\n<p>Like the spring fashion show, this first &#8220;Winter Holiday Fair&#8221; will be a yes4arts fundraiser.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">link that will tell you more about the free workshops<\/a>.\u00a0 And if you have time and would like to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Volunteer.html\">volunteer<\/a> to help as Paula hosts her first &#8220;Holiday Fair&#8221;, she&#8217;d like to hear from you.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>Yes4arts&#8217; first &#8220;Winter Holiday Fair and Family Fun Day&#8221; runs from 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday, November 13th at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive North at Madrona.\u00a0 Admission is free; free fiber arts classes start at 11 am.<\/em><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>Okay&#8211;back on schedule.\u00a0 If you&#8217;re in the Bay Area, here&#8217;s some excellent news for this weekend.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8415\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8415\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8415\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Patchwork-show-festival_edited-1-e1445669147415.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork show festival_edited-1\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" \/><\/a>The <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival <\/a>starts its round of winter fairs today, in Oakland!\u00a0\u00a0 Personal favorites from this particular show have been jewelry, great scented soaps and some gorgeous graphics, in the past, but that barely does it justice.<\/p>\n<p>On hand will be more than 100 vendors.\u00a0 Live musical performances happen all day, food trucks are featured (but leave room for a handcrafted popsicle and\/or sweet&#8211;vendors have small-batch artisan foods to die for!) and there&#8217;s also a &#8220;Patchwork Junior&#8221; area, according to co-founder Nicole Stevenson&#8217;s &#8220;Dear Handmade Life&#8221; website.\u00a0 This is where makers under 18 get a taste of selling their work at a craft fair&#8211;how cool is<em> that<\/em>.<\/p>\n<h5><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival runs from 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday, November 5th in Oakland&#8217;s Jack London Square.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>AND, this is the first of three shows!\u00a0 <strong>Southern California<\/strong> is next on <strong>Patchwork Show&#8217;s<\/strong> itinerary, with shows scheduled for:<\/p>\n<h5><em>Long Beach, Sunday, November 13th, 11 am to 5 pm at Marine Stadium, Appian Way and Bayshore.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p><em><strong>Santa Ana, Sunday, November 22nd, 11 am to 5 pm,\u00a0 2nd and Sycamore Streets.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>And we don&#8217;t want to forget a relatively new favorite, either.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8570\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"jackalope sign and booths\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a> started in Pasadena in April, 2015&#8211;and it&#8217;s received a well-deserved rousing response.\u00a0 Co-created by talented planners Sara Vausbinder, Melissa Shipley and Laura Fischer, this is a three-city show that features more than 200 vendors.\u00a0 Its emphasis is on getting to meet and talk with the exhibiting artisans.<\/p>\n<p>A major strength of <strong>Jackalope<\/strong>, besides the unique offerings from so many talented vendors, is its art workshops.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8594\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8594\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8594\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshop-tent11-e1447486352201.jpg\" alt=\"workshop tent1\" width=\"600\" height=\"486\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8595\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8595\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8595\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg\" alt=\"SPACE mask1\" width=\"434\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg 434w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" \/><\/a>The winter edition of &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; comes to Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park on Saturday and Sunday, November 12th and 13th.\u00a0 Getting a look at some of the listing vendors, I love those rich-looking handcrafted wooden bowls, the papercutter&#8217;s special gift boxes (wow, how talented some people are!) and those European handbags especially.\u00a0 But nothing beats finding new favorites firsthand.<\/p>\n<h5><em><strong>Jackalope Art and Craft Fair, Pasadena edition, runs 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday, November 12th and 13th in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong><\/em><\/h5>\n<p>Not in California?\u00a0 If you&#8217;re reading this from <strong>Arizona<\/strong>, Jackalope comes your way <strong>Saturday and Sunday, November 26th and 27th, 10 am to 5 pm<\/strong> at WestWorld of <strong>Scottsdale, 16601 North Pima Road near Pima Freeway.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the <strong>Colorado<\/strong> edition happens <strong>Saturday and Sunday, December 10th and 11th, 10 am to 5 pm<\/strong> at the McNichols Building, 1<strong>44 West Colfax Avenue, east of Bannock Street, in Denver<\/strong>.\u00a0 Again, admission to both these shows is free.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s it?\u00a0 No, not really.\u00a0 There&#8217;s more to come&#8211;but this will get you started!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10305\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10148\">SPAA Wraps Up Summer<\/a>  September 10, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10157\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10157\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10157\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Student-Art-Show-sign.jpg\" alt=\"student-art-show-sign\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Student-Art-Show-sign.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Student-Art-Show-sign-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>Summer, 2016, has been a great one&#8211;and a highly creative time for <a href=\"http:\/\/sanpedroart.org\/wp\/\">San Pedro Art Association.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This weekend, they&#8217;re concluding summer with a celebration of new talent.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday, September 11th, SPAA hosts a closing reception for their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1247349595309390\/\">&#8220;Harbor Wide Student Art Competition&#8221;<\/a>, which has been on display at CRAFTED since June.\u00a0 .<\/p>\n<p>These are some seriously talented young artists.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10162\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10162\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10162\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10162\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10162\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/San-Pedro.jpg\" alt=\"(SPAA Student Art Show, 2015.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"375\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/San-Pedro.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/San-Pedro-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/San-Pedro-480x300.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10162\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(SPAA Student Art Show, 2015.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>San Pedro Art Association has been conducting their Student Art Competition since 2011.\u00a0 Just prior to the close of the school year, elementary, middle school and high school students throughout the San Pedro area are invited to submit their art.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10160\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10160\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10160\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10160\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10160\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Wilmington-Middle-School.jpg\" alt=\"(SPAA Srudent Art Show, 2015.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Wilmington-Middle-School.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Wilmington-Middle-School-300x224.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Wilmington-Middle-School-402x300.jpg 402w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10160\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(SPAA Srudent Art Show, 2015.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Winners receive prizes including SPAA memberships and cash prizes.\u00a0 And every participant receives a ribbon, art supplies&#8211;and his or her work gets framed professionally and exhibited in CRAFTED, San Pedro&#8217;s year-round marketplace!<\/p>\n<p>On Sunday, SPAA will provide lunch and welcome students, parents and anyone who&#8217;d like to come celebrate their youngest creatives one last time.\u00a0 But that&#8217;s just one of the many events San Pedro Art Association sponsors.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8127\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8127\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8127\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/SPAA-new1.jpg\" alt=\"SPAA new1\" width=\"700\" height=\"282\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This autumn, San Pedro Art Association celebrates their eightieth anniversary!\u00a0 They&#8217;ve been supporting, promoting and teaching artists since 1936, according to their website.\u00a0 They host &#8220;First Thursday Artwalk&#8221; events\u00a0 monthly (their next one happens on October 6th).\u00a0 Their fall class offerings include jewelry design, painting and photography instruction.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, you&#8217;re cordially invited to come to CRAFTED this Sunday afternoon, have a light lunch and get to applaud the artists who may very well be creating your new favorite things, in the not-too-distant future.<\/p>\n<h5>San Pedro Art Association&#8217;s Closing Reception for their &#8220;Harbor Wide Student Art Competition&#8221; happens Sunday afternoon, September 11th, from 2:00 to 5:00 at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, <span class=\"_4n-j fsl\"><span class=\"text_exposed_show\">112 E 22nd Street at Miner, in San Pedro.<\/span><\/span><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10148\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10095\">&#8220;Artful&#8221; Anaheim in the Swing<\/a>  August 13, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10110\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10110\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10110\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10110\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10110\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl5.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl5.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl5-300x182.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl5-495x300.jpg 495w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10110\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>How would you like to do some &#8220;time traveling&#8221; this weekend?<\/p>\n<p>This evening, in downtown Anaheim, you&#8217;ll get that opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>At 6:00 tonight, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/swinginonthepromenade\">18th Annual Swingin&#8217; on the Promenade<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtCrawlExperience\/?fref=ts\">Anaheim Art Crawl Experience<\/a> join forces to transform the downtown area into a 1940s swing club&#8211;with more than 70 exhibiting artists.\u00a0 There will also be a tribute to filmmaker John Hughes (of &#8220;Home Alone&#8221; and &#8220;Pretty in Pink&#8221; fame), courtesy of POPzilla Gallery.\u00a0 And admission&#8217;s free!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10116\" style=\"width: 408px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10116\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10116\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10116\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10116\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-9.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"398\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-9.jpg 398w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-9-199x300.jpg 199w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 398px) 100vw, 398px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10116\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Anaheim&#8217;s Art Crawl Experience, also known as ACE, is now in its sixth year.\u00a0\u00a0 This is an art walk\/arts festival happening four times annually: on the second Saturday of February, May, August and November.\u00a0 ACE locations are from Anaheim Boulevard to Harbor, and along Center Street Promenade&#8211;and you can walk OR get a complimentary ride aboard &#8220;Polly the Trolley&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10107\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10107\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10107\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10107\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10107\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4-452x300.jpg 452w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10107\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>So, what might you see during this edition of ACE?\u00a0 Just a few of the indie crafts vendors exhibiting, according to a news release, include <a href=\"http:\/\/twotribespottery.blogspot.com\/\">Two Tribes Pottery<\/a> (Native American artist\u00a0 Rowan Harrison&#8217;s striking hand-built creations), <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sylvialovespink\/?fref=ts\">Sylvia Loves Pink<\/a>\u00a0 (her adorable original stuffed cats and owls are my favorites!) and our total favorite &#8220;original art from a generous heart artist, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jessiejinspirations.com\/\">Jessie J Inspirations<\/a>!\u00a0\u00a0 (Ask her about her pinup calendar and the great cause it&#8217;s supporting!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10029\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10029\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10029\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Barb-and-Angie-Copy1.jpg\" alt=\"Barb and Angie - Copy1\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Barb-and-Angie-Copy1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Barb-and-Angie-Copy1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Barb-and-Angie-Copy1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Taking my best guess, I&#8217;d also say you might find some new favorite authors there.\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Barbara-Lieberman\/e\/B00NHI7PT6\">Barbara Lieberman<\/a>,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Ellie-Lieberman\/e\/B00ZQ5ROYE\"> Ellie Lieberman<\/a>\u00a0 and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Ellie-Lieberman\/e\/B00ZQ5ROYE\">Evangeline Duran Fuentes<\/a> will all be exhibiting.\u00a0 In addition to being three talented craftswomen, these are storytellers, with a capital &#8220;S&#8221;&#8211;and three distinctive styles.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10034\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10034\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-10034\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Ellie-with-her-book1.jpg\" alt=\"Ellie with her book1\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Ellie-with-her-book1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Ellie-with-her-book1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Ellie-with-her-book1-452x300.jpg 452w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Barb creates highly-addictive historical fiction&#8211;and reworks fairy tales to appeal to &#8220;tall kids&#8221;, our age.\u00a0 Ellie writes starkly beautiful prose, with an underlying compassion that shines through the bleakest scenarios.\u00a0 Evangeline&#8217;s warm, imaginative stories evoke her cultural heritage and her memories of growing up in East Los Angeles.<\/p>\n<p>Now&#8211;the dancing.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10117\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10117\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10117\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10117\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10117\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-10.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-10.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-10-300x192.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-10-470x300.jpg 470w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10117\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>If you arrive early tonight, you can take a free dance lesson, courtesy of Atomic Ballroom Irvine.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be teaching from 6:00 till 6:30.\u00a0 Then, it&#8217;s &#8220;show us what you learned&#8221; as an evening of music follows&#8211;courtesy of Jonathan Stout and his Campus Five, featuring Hilary Alexander, and DJ Vintage Pete.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10111\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10111\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10111\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10111\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10111\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-dancers.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"426\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-dancers.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-dancers-300x183.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-dancers-493x300.jpg 493w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10111\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>In addition, the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center will offer free admission to their most recent exhibits.\u00a0 Attendees of tonight&#8217;s Art Crawl Experience will get to see works by Nicolay Paskevich, created exclusive for this event!<\/p>\n<p>Indie crafts, a night of music and dancing under the stars, and, oh yes, great food, from the gourmet foods booths throughout Anaheim Art Crawl Experience.\u00a0 And, admission&#8217;s free.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_10107\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=10107\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10107\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10107\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10107\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Art-Crawl-Experience-4-452x300.jpg 452w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10107\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph by Mike Margol, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>A summertime evening in Anaheim doesn&#8217;t get a lot better than this.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h5><em>Anaheim Art Crawl Experience and the18th Annual Swingin&#8217; on the Promenade happen in conjunction this evening, August 13th, from 6:00 to 10:00 pm in downtown Anaheim.\u00a0 Crawl locations are from Anaheim Boulevard to Harbor Boulevard and along Center Street Promenade.\u00a0 Admission is free.\u00a0 For GPS, use 201 Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, CA 92805, according to their news release.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=10095\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9935\">Summer, San Anselmo<\/a>  June 25, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9977\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9977\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9977\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9977\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9977\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-5.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-5.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-5-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9977\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Crafts, music, dance and great food are all excellent components of a weekend.<\/p>\n<p>So are family activities&#8211;including one Fido might like.<\/p>\n<p>And you can get a generous helping of all of the above, today and tomorrow, at the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sresproductions.com\/events\/san-anselmo-art-wine-festival\/\">33rd Annual San Anselmo Art and Wine Festival.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9974\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9974\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9974\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9974\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9974\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-3.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-3-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9974\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>The very best part of any summer festival, for me, is getting to meet and support the gifted members of the local creative community.\u00a0\u00a0 You&#8217;ll get plenty of opportunities to do that here&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9968\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9968\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9968\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9968\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9968\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-1.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-1-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9968\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>More than 150 artists are set to exhibit their work, both days. (Talk about the best kind of opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping!\u00a0 And, yowwww&#8211;guess what&#8217;s exactly six months from today!?!\u00a0<em> I&#8217;d<\/em> better get busy shopping.)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9972\" style=\"width: 409px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9972\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9972\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9972\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9972\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-2.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"399\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-2.jpg 399w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-2-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 399px) 100vw, 399px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9972\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;ll be ten gourmet food booths, and food trucks.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9979\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9979\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9979\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9979\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9979\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-6.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-6.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-6-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9979\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t be too surprised if you feel like dancing.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have live entertainment, and a large family area.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9975\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9975\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9975\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9975\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9975\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-4.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-4.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/San-Anselmo-SRES-4-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9975\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Wine and Craft Beer Tasting returns for this year&#8217;s Festival.<\/p>\n<p>So does a major hit from last year: the Pet Fashion Show.\u00a0\u00a0 (Wonder what the well-dressed poodle is wearing, for Summer 2016?\u00a0 Something cool, I hope.\u00a0 Preferably with a parasol&#8211;San Anselmo&#8217;s temperature is forecast to be in the upper 80s this weekend.)<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re in the Bay Area this weekend, check this out&#8211;and enjoy a gourmet chocolate for me.<\/p>\n<h5><em>The 33rd annual San Anselmo Art and Wine Festival happens Saturday and Sunday, June 25th and 26th, from 10 am to 6 pm, on San Anselmo Avenue, between Tamalpais and Bolinas Avenues.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9935\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9941\">Time for Camp<\/a>  June 18, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4937\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4937\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4937\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2053c\" width=\"509\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg 509w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c-218x300.jpg 218w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Remember summer camp?\u00a0\u00a0 Where you made knotted bracelets that you and your best friend swore to wear forever?\u00a0 And roasted s&#8217;mores around the campfire?<\/p>\n<p>Now you can experience it again&#8211;minus the campfire and mosquitoes.<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, June 18th,\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> invites you to &#8220;summer camp&#8221; as they host their &#8220;Summer Camp Etsy Craft Party&#8221;!\u00a0 From 11:00 Saturday morning, they&#8217;ll have all kinds of workshops on the grown-up version of popular camp crafts.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=3047\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-3047\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3047\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED 3\" width=\"700\" height=\"446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-470x300.jpg 470w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Once again, you&#8217;ll get to tie-dye.\u00a0 (CRAFTED says you can either bring something you&#8217;d like to dye, or buy a shirt onsite). There&#8217;ll be a charm bracelet workshop, as well as one in which you can make a metal fortune-cookie charm.\u00a0 Printmaking will be happening&#8211;and there&#8217;s even the opportunity to make your own nail polish.\u00a0\u00a0 And here&#8217;s a craft you probably never created at summer camp&#8211;&#8220;tie-dye cookies&#8221; you can paint and eat!<\/p>\n<p>2016 marks CRAFTED&#8217;s fourth year of hosting the largest ETSY Craft Party on the West Coast, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/132209560516843\/\">Facebook page<\/a>.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be doing the &#8220;summer camp&#8221; theme right, with hot dogs, photo booths, live music and indoor and outdoor games.\u00a0 And of course, you will be able to get s&#8217;mores&#8211;the grown-up version, with sea salt, will be on sale at their Red Car Market!<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9959\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/handmade-sign.jpg\" alt=\"handmade sign\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/handmade-sign.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/handmade-sign-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/handmade-sign-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/>CRAFTED<\/a>, which is San Pedro&#8217;s year-round all-handmade marketplace, has free admission and free parking.\u00a0 The &#8220;summer camp&#8221; crafts workshops range in price from $4 to $10, and there&#8217;s a special candle-pouring workshop for $25.\u00a0 (This is a limited-space one, happening at 2 pm, and you&#8217;re requested to RSVP at hello@banterandbliss if you&#8217;d like to go.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9960\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9960\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9960\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cool-student-art2.jpg\" alt=\"cool student art2\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cool-student-art2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cool-student-art2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cool-student-art2-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And of course, you&#8217;ll get to see talented local artisans exhibit their work, perhaps find some new summer treasures, <em>and<\/em> admire the work of tomorrow&#8217;s artists, in the <span class=\"_4n-j fsl\"> &#8220;San Pedro Art Association Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition&#8221;, on display at CRAFTED from now till September.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9955\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9955\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9955\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/creation-station1.jpg\" alt=\"creation station1\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/creation-station1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/creation-station1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/creation-station1-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/span>There&#8217;s also a free workshop, on creating the woven-yarn &#8220;Ojo de Dios&#8221; ornaments (remember those?), grown-up version, in CRAFTED&#8217;s demonstration area.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/132209560516843\/\">link<\/a> for session information.\u00a0 But hurry&#8211;the bus is leaving soon!<\/p>\n<h5><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is located at 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro.\u00a0 Their &#8220;Summer Camp Etsy Craft Party&#8221; happens Saturday, June 18th, from 11 am to 7 pm, with workshops in CRAFTED&#8217;s courtyard, at their Creation Station and at a number of the shops throughout the marketplace; here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/132209560516843\/\">list<\/a>.\u00a0 Admission and parking at CRAFTED are free, while there&#8217;s a nominal charge for most of the &#8220;summer camp&#8221; craft workshops.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9941\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9870\">A Weekend of Creativity<\/a>  June 10, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9874\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9874\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9874\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9874\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9874\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach3.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach3-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach3-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9874\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Hooray!\u00a0 It&#8217;s the weekend!<\/p>\n<p>Even better&#8211;it&#8217;s a weekend when a <em>lot<\/em> of cool stuff happens.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9876\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9876\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9876\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9876\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9876\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach2.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach2-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9876\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>This Saturday and Sunday, June 11th and 12th, the<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1594922310837547\/\"> 62nd Annual North Beach Festival <\/a>happens, in San Francisco&#8217;s historic North Beach area.\u00a0 This free event is\u00a0 is a Bay Area tradition&#8211;and promises to be a great time.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9910\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9910\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9910\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9910\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9910\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-7.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-7.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-7-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9910\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Festival weekend plans include more than 125 arts and crafts booths, amazing food (in a City known for great restaurants anyway!), beverage gardens, and live entertainment.\u00a0 We count six separate stage areas, featuring music and poetry readings, on their event <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sresproductions.com\/events\/north-beach-festival\/\">website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the kids get to be creative in a kids&#8217; chalk area&#8211;and <em>everyone<\/em> gets to ooh and aah as the local artists showcase their Italian street painting talents!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9881\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9881\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9881\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9881\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9881\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach5.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach5.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach5-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach5-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9881\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>(I admit: this one, especially, wowed me.\u00a0\u00a0 The fabric of this gentleman&#8217;s clothing looks so realistic that I&#8217;d almost expect to hear it rustle!)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9889\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9889\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9889\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9889\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9889\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-6.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-6.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/SRES-North-Beach-6-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9889\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>In addition, from 2 to 3, both Saturday and Sunday afternoon, the Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi hosts the long-running traditional &#8220;Blessing of the Animals&#8221; ceremony.\u00a0 (The Shrine is located at 610 Vallejo Street, between Grant and Columbus.)<\/p>\n<p>Besides being a don&#8217;t-miss way to start the summer in San Francisco, the North Beach Festival supports a great cause.\u00a0 Proceeds from the Festival fund neighborhood projects, including installing and maintaining hanging flower baskets, sidewalk steam cleaning of businesses, and supporting neighborhood organizations that help to keep The City&#8211;well, San Francisco.<\/p>\n<p><em>Admission is free to the\u00a0 62nd Annual North Beach Festival, happening Saturday and Sunday, June 11th and 12th, from 10 am to 6pm in multiple locations in San Francisco&#8217;s<\/em> <em>historic North Beach district:<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>Grant Avenue, between Columbus and Filbert;<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>Columbus Avenue between Broadway and Green; and<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>Vallejo and Green Streets between Grant Avenue and Columbus<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9915\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9915\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9915\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/best-patchwork.jpg\" alt=\"best patchwork\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/best-patchwork.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/best-patchwork-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/best-patchwork-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>.<\/em>Meanwhile, if you&#8217;re In Southern California this weekend, you&#8217;ll get the opportunity to see crafts by the beach&#8211;as <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/upcoming-shows\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival<\/a> makes its summertime appearance in Long Beach!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9898\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9898\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9898\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show Long Beach\" width=\"600\" height=\"404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-300x202.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Patchwork-Show-Long-Beach-446x300.jpg 446w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a> While Patchwork Festival has multiple locations, this is their largest event, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">website<\/a>.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have more than 200 all-handmade vendors on site, as well as multiple music stages.<\/p>\n<p>Entertainment can be unique (who knew Long Beach even <em>had<\/em> a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.makemusicdowney.org\/long-beach-ukulele-club-2\/\">Ukelele Club<\/a>?\u00a0 Their motto: &#8220;If it&#8217;s not fun, we don&#8217;t do it&#8221;!)<\/p>\n<p>And at any Patchwork Festival, no one goes hungry.<\/p>\n<p>Think artisan food vendors with handcrafted candies, homemade bread, sauces&#8230;and just in case none of that grabs your fancy&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9906\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9906\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9906\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/food-trucks-2_edited-1.jpg\" alt=\"food trucks 2_edited-1\" width=\"600\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/food-trucks-2_edited-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/food-trucks-2_edited-1-300x268.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/food-trucks-2_edited-1-336x300.jpg 336w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;These are another delectable feature of Patchwork Shows.\u00a0\u00a0 I personally love <a href=\"http:\/\/indiajoneschowtruck.com\/\">India Jones<\/a>&#8211;and yes, they do leave me &#8220;jonesing&#8221; for more of their samosas!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9920\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9920\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9920\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears.jpg\" alt=\"cat ears\" width=\"2848\" height=\"2144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears.jpg 2848w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears-1024x771.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cat-ears-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2848px) 100vw, 2848px\" \/><\/a>Predominant among all the creative vendors, showcasing their work, is a sense of fun.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9908\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9908\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9908\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/scentedsoap1.jpg\" alt=\"scentedsoap1\" width=\"600\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/scentedsoap1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/scentedsoap1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/scentedsoap1-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>I personally always seem to find new favorite scented soaps and cool jewelry at Patchwork, but you&#8217;ll have a lot of opportunities to find your own treasures. Here, Toushonta Hogan offers her natural soaps and oils from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.scentsationalsoaps.biz\/About-Us_ep_7.html\">Scentsational Soaps<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9925\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9925\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9925\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/east-village-arts1.jpg\" alt=\"east village arts1\" width=\"451\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/east-village-arts1.jpg 451w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/east-village-arts1-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px\" \/><\/a>In all probability, you&#8217;ll get a number of chances to be creative with DIY projects, as well as pick up some amazing gifts for grads, brides, early Christmas shopping&#8211;or treat yourself to something special.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9927\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9927\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9927\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork sign 2014\" width=\"476\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014.jpg 476w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/patchwork-sign-2014-238x300.jpg 238w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And not only is Patchwork Show family-friendly, but canine-friendly as well, with your favorite four-legged companion welcome&#8211;and a free shuttle!<\/p>\n<h5><em>The Patchwork Show Handmade Modern Art Festival comes to Long Beach&#8217;s Marine Stadium, Appian Way at Bayshore, on Sunday, June 12th, from 11 am to 5 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>Want one more, for this weekend?\u00a0 O-kay.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4413\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4413\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4413\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED 6\" width=\"600\" height=\"382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6-471x300.jpg 471w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED, in San Pedro<\/a>, is having all-weekend-long paper crafting classes at their &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;, where you can make Dad a Father&#8217;s Day card for next weekend!\u00a0 This is a low-cost class ($3 for instruction and materials).\u00a0 Classes start at 10:00 this morning, Friday, June 10th, and continue until CRAFTED closes at 6:00 on Sunday evening.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;ll also be hosting jewelry making classes this Saturday and Sunday, and printmaking workshops starting Saturday afternoon at 1:00 and continuing throughout the weekend.\u00a0 And of course, since CRAFTED is a year-round crafts marketplace, you&#8217;re likely to find some unique handcrafted treasures here, as well.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=4937\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4937\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4937\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2053c\" width=\"509\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg 509w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c-218x300.jpg 218w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px\" \/><\/a>One more note&#8211;now is the time to mark your calendar for NEXT weekend!\u00a0 On Saturday, June 18th, CRAFTED hosts an all-day &#8220;Summer Camp Etsy Craft Party&#8221;, with games, giveaways, and summer-camp crafts all through the market!<\/p>\n<h5><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is located at 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro. Their new hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, \u00a0 11 am to 7 pm. Admission is free<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9870\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9745\">An Almost-Summer Roundup<\/a>  May 22, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9748\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9748\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9748\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9748\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9748\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-2-from-SRES-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9748\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Did you hear something that sounded like,<em> &#8220;zoom&#8221;?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s exactly how this month seems to be going!\u00a0 With Memorial Day weekend coming up, here&#8217;s a quick look at some upcoming California almost-summertime crafts fairs.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9751\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9751\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9751\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-entrance-1-e1463799015634.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork entrance 1\" width=\"600\" height=\"414\" \/><\/a><strong>SANTA ANA &#8211; <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">PATCHWORK SHOW Modern Makers Festival.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h5>Sunday, May 29th, 2nd and Sycamore, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/h5>\n<p>More than 160 local vendors celebrate the &#8220;unofficial start of summer&#8221; in this all-handmade festival.\u00a0\u00a0 Fine jewelry and costume, scented soaps and handcrafted cards have been among my favorite &#8220;finds&#8221; here.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9759\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9759\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9759\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-1.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show overview\" width=\"600\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-1-300x233.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-overview-1-387x300.jpg 387w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Live performances are part of the fun&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9760\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9760\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9760\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show,music stage\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Showmusic-stage-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9763\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9763\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9763\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show DIY area\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-DIY-area-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>,&#8230;and so is the opportunity to &#8220;get crafty&#8221; at one of the DIY areas.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9761\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9761\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9761\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-Santa-Ana-May-24-2015-079.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show, Santa Ana, May 24, 2015 079\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-Santa-Ana-May-24-2015-079.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-Santa-Ana-May-24-2015-079-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Patchwork-Show-Santa-Ana-May-24-2015-079-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a> And, the food is completely fantastic!\u00a0\u00a0 Between the artisan-food area and the food trucks, this is a &#8220;foodie&#8217;s&#8221; day out.\u00a0 I personally always hurry to get in the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.frontporchpops.com\/\">Front Porch Pops<\/a> line&#8211;can we say &#8220;summer on a stick&#8221; here?\u00a0 But you&#8217;ll probably find quite a few other personal favorites, as well.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9755\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9755\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9755\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork Santa Ana 2015\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/patchwork-Santa-Ana-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Santa Ana is right where it all started for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1693842530898810\/\">Patchwork Show<\/a>.\u00a0 Co-founders Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell opened their first show in the parking lot of Delilah&#8217;s store, The Road Less Traveled, in 2008.\u00a0 Since then, the show has grown to a twice-yearly event in three different cities&#8211;both in Northern and Southern California!<\/p>\n<p>The best part?\u00a0 This is just the start of the 2016 Springtime Patchwork Shows!\u00a0 Patchwork comes to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1034781416561126\/\">Oakland&#8217;s Jack London Square on June 4th<\/a>&#8211;and to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1746635618897912\/\">Long Beach&#8217;s Marine Stadium<\/a> on June 12th!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9770\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9770\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9770\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9770\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9770\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-5-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-5-from-SRES.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-5-from-SRES-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-5-from-SRES-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9770\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sresproductions.com\/events\/union-street-festival\/\">SAN FRANCISCO &#8211; UNION\u00a0 STREET FESTIVAL.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h5><strong> Saturday and Sunday, June 4th and 4th, Union Street, Fillmore to Gough<\/strong><\/h5>\n<h5><strong>10 am &#8211; 6 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9774\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9774\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9774\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9774\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9774\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-from-SRES-2.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-from-SRES-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-from-SRES-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-from-SRES-2-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9774\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Again, where does the time go?\u00a0 This will be the <em>40th<\/em> annual Union Street Festival&#8211;and it&#8217;s never looked better!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9771\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9771\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9771\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9771\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9771\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-6-from-SRES-1-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9771\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>To say the exhibiting artists have some incredible handmade work, would be an understatement.<\/p>\n<p>Among the exhibitors this year, according to the website, will be <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sforsparkle.com\/\">S for Sparkle<\/a> (I love Kate&#8217;s delicate rings and the &#8220;tiny pop of color&#8221; earrings she creates!), along with fiber artist <a href=\"http:\/\/www.textileart-originals.com\/\">Judy Sauer<\/a> (if you want to see a gorgeous &#8220;table topper&#8221;, here&#8217;s one!) and glass artist<a href=\"http:\/\/www.frankthompson.com\/\"> Frank Thompson<\/a>, who manages to get sea, rainbows and iridescence all into his glorious work.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9772\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9772\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9772\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9772\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9772\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-7-from-SRES-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9772\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Live music, dancing, health and fitness, and great food are all a part of the Union Street Festival.\u00a0 So are health and fitness, and kids&#8217; amusements!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9769\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9769\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9769\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9769\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9769\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Union-Street-Festival-4-from-SRES-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9769\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of Steven Restivo Event Services, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And&#8211;this is the second year they&#8217;re having a juried fine-art section!\u00a0 You&#8217;re invited to take a look as the judges vote on the best for cash prizes.<\/p>\n<p>One other feature that&#8217;s always popular at the Union Street Festival?\u00a0 The craft beer and wine sampling pavilions; and<a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/union-street-festival-sampling-pavilions-2016-tickets-24971127314\"> tickets are available now<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 But, one warning&#8211;if this will be your first time at the Union Street Festival, and you want to have dinner afterwards, in one of the area restaurants, you may want to look into making reservations NOW.\u00a0 Union Street lives up to San Francisco&#8217;s reputation for great restaurants, and a lot of Festival attendees will have the same idea.<a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9784\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg\" alt=\"Ojai Lavender Festival, June 27, 2015 045\" width=\"600\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-300x263.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-045-342x300.jpg 342w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><strong>OJAI &#8211; OJAI VALLEY LAVENDER FESTIVAL<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h5>Saturday, June 25th, Libbey Park, 10 am &#8211; 5 pm.<\/h5>\n<h5><strong>Admission is free.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9785\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9785\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg\" alt=\"Ojai Lavender Festival overall\" width=\"600\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-overall-500x280.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/strong>This one offers more than a hundred vendors, lavender for sale everywhere and all kinds of lavender essential oils, soaps and lavender-related food items.\u00a0 Lavender ice cream, iced tea and even lavender-flavored entrees were on the menu when we went for the first time last year.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9786\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9786\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9786\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg\" alt=\"lavender for sale (2)\" width=\"400\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/lavender-for-sale-2-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a>In addition to all the artisans, the Festival had a crafts booth where visitors could make lavender wreaths, as well as live music by some very talented local bands.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7772\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7772\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7772\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/onstage3.jpg\" alt=\"onstage3\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And while I don&#8217;t see it listed yet, I hope the Ojai Valley Raptor Center will be exhibiting again this year.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7771\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7771\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7771\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2.jpg\" alt=\"Ojai Raptor Center2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Bob, the kestrel, hammed it up for the camera when we were there&#8211;and may be ready for an encore<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7784\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7784\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7784\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses.jpg\" alt=\"Bob poses\" width=\"700\" height=\"587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses-300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses-357x300.jpg 357w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>And if you happen to love cooking, Chef Robin Goldstein teaches a very popular special class on &#8220;Cooking with Lavender&#8221; at the Lavender Inn, especially for the Festival. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">link with a phone number for reservations.<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7770\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7770\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7770\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-flowers-closeup2.jpg\" alt=\"lavender flowers closeup2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a>Now, two warnings.\u00a0 If you&#8217;re going to this one, get there early, as it does get crowded.\u00a0 Free parking was available, last year, when we pulled in at 9 am.\u00a0 Two hours later, every spot was taken.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=7785\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-7785\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-trolley.jpg\" alt=\"OVLF trolley\" width=\"700\" height=\"551\" \/><\/a>And&#8211;the traffic can be heavy!\u00a0 The Ojai Valley Lavender Festival&#8217;s deservedly popular, but as mentioned in a previous post, we narrowly missed being hit, by two different cars, as we tried to navigate one pedestrian crossing.\u00a0 So please be careful.\u00a0 And again, we highly recommend the Ojai Trolley, for a gorgeous ride around town.<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy, and I&#8217;ll see you at the festivals!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9745\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9602\">Talent, Community, Festivity<\/a>  May 1, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9603\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9603\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9603\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg\" alt=\"jackalope sign and booths1\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/jackalope-sign-and-booths1-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Melissa Shipley is celebrating an anniversary this weekend.\u00a0 And you\u2019re invited!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9607\" style=\"width: 250px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9607\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9607\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9607\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9607\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Melissa2.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Melissa Shipley, and used with permission.)\" width=\"240\" height=\"268\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9607\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Melissa Shipley, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Melissa is one of the three cofounders of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a>.\u00a0 Unbelievable as it seems, Jackalope is now a year old!\u00a0\u00a0 Melissa talked about her experience with Jackalope Arts, offered a preview of this weekend\u2019s fair, and provided information for anyone who\u2019d like to get involved in the future.<\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-9602-5\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/melissa_shipley_jackalope_arts.mp3?_=5\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/melissa_shipley_jackalope_arts.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/melissa_shipley_jackalope_arts.mp3<\/a><\/audio><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair&#8217;s <\/a>second Spring Fair happens in Pasadena\u2019s Central Park, this Saturday and Sunday, April 30<sup>th<\/sup> and May 1<sup>st<\/sup>.\u00a0 Then, it&#8217;s destination: Denver, as they partner with one of Colorado&#8217;s longest-running festivals, for their Summer 2016 Jackalope Art and Craft Fair, in August<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9608\" style=\"width: 250px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9608\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9608\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9608\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9608\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Melissa3.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Melissa Shipley, and used with permission.)\" width=\"240\" height=\"272\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9608\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Melissa Shipley, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Here is their consultant, Winston, who is a bow-tie specialist and will be accompanying Melissa to this weekend\u2019s Jackalope Fair.<\/p>\n<p>Jackalope Art and Craft Fair is an all-handmade, juried show with more than 200 vendors onsite.\u00a0 But, the words barely do justice to the experience.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8593\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8593\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8593\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-11-e1447486254104.jpg\" alt=\"workshops and hula hoops_edited-1\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>When I had the opportunity to explore their Fall 2015 show, I fell in love with the handmade clocks, scented soaps and jewelry.\u00a0 Jackalope, like the mythical animal for which the show is named, showcases imagination at its best\u2014with \u201chow-did-they-come-up-with-<em>that<\/em>\u201d creations that suddenly become essentials for your life and living space.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8591\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8591\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8591\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\" alt=\"jen and her hoop 2\" width=\"600\" height=\"545\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-300x273.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-330x300.jpg 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Jackalope\u2019s emphasis is on the creative community: giving guests a chance to meet and talk with the artists, as opposed to simply offering work for sale.\u00a0 Their DIY crafts workshops (which are free!) are a definite plus, and were a popular draw last time. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8595\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8595\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8595\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg\" alt=\"SPACE mask1\" width=\"434\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg 434w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" \/><\/a>And. unfortunately, I have to give you an abject apology.\u00a0 Due to server issues, my site&#8217;s been down most of the weekend. This post was scheduled\u00a0 to give you a preview of the show, which starts Day 2 at 10 this morning.\u00a0 Can we say &#8220;short notice&#8221; here?\u00a0 <em> I&#8217;m sorry!\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p>However, now that the server&#8217;s back, here&#8217;s the info on Jackalope for today&#8211;and let me be the first to advise you, they&#8217;re coming back to Pasadena for their Fall Fair, Saturday and Sunday, November 12th and 13th!<\/p>\n<h6><strong><em>Day 2 of the Jackalope Spring 2016 Art and Craft Fair happens today, Sunday, May 1, and runs from 10 am to 5 pm in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park, 275 South Raymond Avenue, north of Del Mar, in Pasadena.\u00a0 Admission is free.\u00a0\u00a0 And look for a return appearance for their Fall Fair, Saturday and Sunday, November 12th and 13th, from 10 am to 5 pm, both days.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<h6><\/h6>\n<h6><strong><em>Traveling to Denver this summer?\u00a0 Say &#8220;hi&#8221; to Jackalope Arts as they partner with the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thecarnationfestival.com\/\">Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival!<\/a>\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be set up inside the fair, Saturday and Sunday, August 12th and 13th.<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9602\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9508\">&#8220;Artisanally&#8221; Tempting<\/a>  April 5, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9511\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9511\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9511\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9511\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9511\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/ALA-Spring-Social-Graphic-III-.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/ALA-Spring-Social-Graphic-III-.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/ALA-Spring-Social-Graphic-III--300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/ALA-Spring-Social-Graphic-III--359x300.jpg 359w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9511\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Okay&#8211;so we <em>did<\/em> just start the workweek.<\/p>\n<p>But that&#8217;s no reason not to look forward to this weekend&#8211;when <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\">Artisanal L.A.<\/a> is all set to tempt you!.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA%E2%80%8E\">Artisanal L.A<\/a>&#8216;s Spring show starts at 11 this upcoming Saturday morning, April 9th, and runs through 6:00 Sunday evening, April 10th, at The Reef in downtown Los Angeles. There will be more than 150 makers onsite.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=3261\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-3261\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3261\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/samples1-e1459824296951.jpg\" alt=\"samples1\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a>If you haven&#8217;t attended an Artisanal L.A. show before, the term, &#8220;foodie&#8217;s dream&#8221; barely covers it.<\/p>\n<p>Vendors are local artisans who whip up small batches of some of the most delectable specialties we&#8217;ve ever tasted.\u00a0 But&#8211;as you&#8217;ll see in this picture from the Fall 2013 show&#8211;they don&#8217;t just let you <em>look<\/em> at their creations.\u00a0 They&#8217;re giving out samples!\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=8580\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8580\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8580\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg\" alt=\"rondo1\" width=\"600\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-300x282.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-320x300.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>(If <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/people\/ColdwaterCanyon\">Coldwater Canyon Provisions<\/a> offers you a taste of their preserves&#8211;or anything else&#8211;you might want to say &#8220;yes&#8221;.\u00a0 Rondo Mieczkowski handcrafts these from family recipes, and our Thanksgiving guests couldn&#8217;t stop raving about his dill pickles, last year!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9527\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9527\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9527\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/erik-knutsen1-e1459824906519.jpg\" alt=\"erik knutsen1\" width=\"600\" height=\"797\" \/><\/a>However, the food is only the beginning.<\/p>\n<p>Artisanal L.A. is a celebration, pure and simple, of makers of all kinds&#8211;bakers, gardeners, craftspeople.\u00a0\u00a0 They have ongoing workshops on organic farming, cooking and crafts&#8211;which sometimes present a real challenge, as a number of interesting events are all going on at the same time! <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9531\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9531\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9531\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/hive1-e1459825251203.jpg\" alt=\"hive1\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" \/><\/a>Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s 2016 Spring show schedule includes DIY workshops on leatherworking, making caramels and chocolate, mini loom weaving and gardening (there&#8217;s a Saturday class on &#8220;drought or no drought&#8221; tree care!).<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the kids will have a great time, courtesy of Barnsdall Art Center.\u00a0 They&#8217;re offering a series of kids&#8217; crafts, both days.\u00a0 (Tissue-paper flowers, pretty pendants and make-your-own greeting cards are just three of them&#8211;just in time for Mother&#8217;s Day! Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/programming\/\">link<\/a> for registration information.)<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9533\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9533\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9533\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9533\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9533\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/ALA-Spring-Social-Graphic-VI-e1459825368326.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"503\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9533\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Among the makers you&#8217;ll get to see at Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s Spring show?\u00a0 I seriously love the sparkly creations and gorgeous silver-and-gold silhouettes from Mei Elizabeth&#8217;s philanthropic jewelry design company.\u00a0 (Even better, sales support a great cause, as you&#8217;ll read on her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.meielizabeth.com\/pages\/about\">website<\/a>.)\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.goatrodeosoap.com\/#!all-soaps\/c1pr3\">Goat Rodeo&#8217;s<\/a> goat-milk soap looks intriguing, with scents like &#8220;cilantro lime&#8221; and &#8220;lavender mint&#8221;.\u00a0 Also, those unique-textile chairs and accessories, created by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.folk-project.com\/\">Folk Project<\/a>, manage to be striking, whimsical and welcoming, all at once.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9534\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9534\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-9534\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/twin-goats1.jpg\" alt=\"twin goats1\" width=\"600\" height=\"587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/twin-goats1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/twin-goats1-300x294.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/twin-goats1-307x300.jpg 307w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And you&#8217;ll be <em>maaaaad<\/em> about the cute baby goats!\u00a0 (Sorry&#8211;couldn&#8217;t resist.)\u00a0 You&#8217;ll get to see them, both days, courtesy of<a href=\"http:\/\/sanctuaryatsoledad.org\/\"> The Sanctuary at Soledad<\/a>.\u00a0 Again, another great cause: they&#8217;re both a farm and an animal rescue, with a strict no-kill policy.<\/p>\n<p>Great food, talented makers, DIY workshops&#8211;and a chance to hear singer\/songwriter Katie Ferrara perform on Sunday afternoon at 2, in the Copa Vida Coffee Lounge.\u00a0 Can a weekend event possibly get any better?<\/p>\n<p>Well, in Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s case&#8211;yes.\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/artisanal-la-spring-show-april-9th-10th-11a-6p-tickets-20975957654?aff=es2\">Pre-sale admission tickets<\/a> are available online, at a discount!<\/p>\n<h6><strong><em>Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s Spring show runs Saturday and Sunday April 9, 2016, from 11 am to 6 pm, both days at The Reef, 1933 South Broadway near Washington Boulevard, in Los Angeles.\u00a0 Tickets are $10 in advance, online, or $15 at the door, with a weekend pre-sale admission price of $15 for both days.\u00a0 Spring show programming is subject to change.<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9508\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9262\">&#8220;Glittering&#8221; Saturday Coming Up<\/a>  February 6, 2016<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_9264\" style=\"width: 428px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?attachment_id=9264\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9264\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9264\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9264\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/GF_Spring-2016_comp-e1454776810846.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White, and used with permission.)\" width=\"418\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9264\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Last October, we fell in love.<\/p>\n<p>And so will you, if you come to Anaheim on February 27th.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\">Glitterfest!<\/a> was a new show for us, and we found lots of gifted artists, who were having fun being magical.\u00a0 We especially loved the woven-bead black cat necklaces we saw, along with a new take on spoon jewelry and some tiny Parisian-scene refrigerator magnets that practically jumped into our shopping bag of their own accord.<\/p>\n<p>Interspersed with all the cool handmade creations were vintage items like English bone china, some classic silver candelabra and wax-faced Christmas elves we remember from growing up in the 1960s.\u00a0\u00a0 And of course, displays sparkled and shone&#8211;with glitter!<\/p>\n<p>OK, now it&#8217;s <em>your<\/em> turn.<\/p>\n<p>Glitterfest!&#8217;s Spring Show happens on Saturday, February 27th, and sisters Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White are preparing a great time.\u00a0 According to their Glitterfest! <a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/\">website<\/a>, among the exhibiting juried artists will be Lisa Loria.\u00a0 (She paints, sculpts and makes dolls and jewelry, but that doesn&#8217;t really do justice to her work.\u00a0 Take a look at her<a href=\"http:\/\/lisaloria.blogspot.com\/p\/store.html\"> blog<\/a>&#8211;I especially love her &#8220;shoedelier&#8221;!)<\/p>\n<p>Gourd artist <a href=\"http:\/\/howlingmoonsblog.blogspot.com\/\">Candace Navarrete <\/a>will also be onsite.\u00a0 She created some amazing Halloween gourd art for the Fall Glitterfest show. Check out her black cat and witch designs for Halloween on her <a href=\"http:\/\/howlingmoonsblog.blogspot.com\/\">Howling Moons Blog<\/a>. Can&#8217;t wait to see what she comes up with for Spring!<\/p>\n<p>And the metalwork of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.despinab.com\/\">Despina Buoncristiani<\/a> is enough to give anyone a serious case of &#8220;bracelet lust&#8221;!\u00a0 The copper one with the dragonfly has me &#8220;oohing&#8221; and &#8220;aahing&#8221;, but you will certainly find your own favorites among all her fine silver, mixed metal, brass and copper jewelry.<\/p>\n<p>Prepare to &#8220;glitter&#8221;, and we&#8217;ll see you there.<\/p>\n<h5><em>Glitterfest!&#8217;s Spring Show happens Saturday, February 27th, 10 am to 3 pm at The Business Expo of Anaheim, 1960 South Anaheim Way, near the 5 and south of East Gene Autry Way.\u00a0 Admission is $7.00.\u00a0 Plan to arrive early; this is a popular one!<\/em><\/h5>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=9262\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8626\">Lots of a Good Thing<\/a>  November 20, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/more-flowers-in-san-pedro1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8673\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/more-flowers-in-san-pedro1.jpg\" alt=\"more flowers in san pedro1\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/more-flowers-in-san-pedro1.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/more-flowers-in-san-pedro1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>O-kay.\u00a0 Here we go again.<\/p>\n<p><em>Another<\/em> weekend when I wish I could be in three different places, at once!<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, November 21, artists, dancers, and overall &#8220;creatives&#8221;&#8211;and their families&#8211; get to celebrate almost-Thanksgiving, at San Pedro&#8217;s second annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/San-Pedros-Art-in-the-Park-heart-in-the-community-event-321563418031912\/\">&#8220;HeART in the Park&#8221; <\/a>event!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8630\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/heARTinthepark-e1447867897808.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8630\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8630\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/heARTinthepark-e1447867897808.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic produced by Seaside Studios\/L.A. City Parks and Recreation,  and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8630\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic produced by Seaside Studios\/L.A. City Parks and Recreation, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>This is a free event, with live exhibits\/demos by artists including Los Angeles Spinners Guild, painter Wendy Wallstrom and digital photographer Larry Hodgson.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have music, line dancing, face painting for the kids, and much more.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6779\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg\" alt=\"bowls3a\" width=\"700\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a-300x248.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a-362x300.jpg 362w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>In addition, there&#8217;ll be a creative &#8220;giving back&#8221; opportunity you&#8217;ll enjoy: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/EmptyBowlssanpedro\">Empty Bowls San Pedro<\/a> will be there to host &#8220;Paint Out in the Park&#8221;!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/regina-gayle-and-dingo-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6488\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/regina-gayle-and-dingo-3.jpg\" alt=\"regina gayle and dingo 3\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a>They&#8217;ll have bisque bowls which you can paint, for free, to support a charity, courtesy of Regina Fernandez and Gayle Fleury, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.seasidestudiossanpedro.com\/\">Seaside Studios San Pedro<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 The bowls will be used for an ice cream social, in February 2016 (February 13, if you and your Valentines would like to mark your calendar!), as a fundraiser for <a href=\"http:\/\/www.harborinterfaith.org\/\">Harbor Interfaith Services<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>San Pedro&#8217;s second annual &#8220;HeART in the Park&#8221; event happens Saturday, November 21st,\u00a0 at Anderson Memorial Senior Citizen Center, 828 South Mesa Street, between 8th and 9th, in San Pedro.\u00a0 Hours are noon to 4 pm, and admission is free.\u00a0 However, please consider bringing donations of food or toiletries; they&#8217;re hosting a charity drive for Harbor Interfaith Services.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8641\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-e1447870577162.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8641\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8641\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Torrance-Craftsmens-Guild-e1447870577162.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Barbara Lieberman, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"397\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8641\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Barbara Lieberman, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, if you hate to miss a great &#8220;crafty&#8221; adventure, the <a href=\"http:\/\/torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild<\/a> have scheduled their upcoming show so you don&#8217;t have to.\u00a0 Their 46th Annual Holiday Arts and Craft Faire, also happening this weekend, is a two-day event at Torrance Cultural Arts Center.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;ll have more than 90 exhibiting artists onsite, according to their event <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/868941223221156\/\">Facebook page.<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/torrance-fair1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8676\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/torrance-fair1.jpg\" alt=\"torrance fair1\" width=\"600\" height=\"329\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/torrance-fair1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/torrance-fair1-300x165.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/torrance-fair1-500x274.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>They&#8217;ll also feature music, courtesy of DJ Ozzie, food, and a raffle prize drawing.\u00a0 But, of course, the main &#8220;draw&#8221; (&#8220;draws&#8217;, probably, as there are ninety of them!) would be all the talented all-handmade exhibitors!<\/p>\n<p>Just a sampling of what you&#8217;ll see?<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7356\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner.jpg\" alt=\"craft faire banner\" width=\"700\" height=\"460\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Well,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/868941223221156\/\">\u00a0<\/a> I&#8217;m loving those cute cards from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/playapaper\">Playa Paper,<\/a> for both Christmas and Hanukkah, on their Facebook page!\u00a0 The whimsical stuffed cats, by Mary Chamberlain, are another favorite, and look like perfect stocking stuffers.\u00a0 Chairperson Mary Anne St. John&#8217;s handcrafted Christmas earrings may tempt you to the point that you wind up with some new favorite accessories.\u00a0 And while I haven&#8217;t met her yet, that recycled-tin jewelry by Terry Madison, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/TinSnippets\">Tin Snippets,<\/a> looks both intriguing and beautiful.)<\/p>\n<p>And of course, total favorite authors\/artists Barbara and Ellie Lieberman are a can&#8217;t-miss!\u00a0 While they&#8217;re mother and daughter, their individual styles are quite different.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6343\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\" alt=\"barb lieberman\" width=\"580\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg 580w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman-248x300.jpg 248w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/barbs-new-book.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8678\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/barbs-new-book.jpg\" alt=\"barbs new book\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/barbs-new-book.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/barbs-new-book-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/barbs-new-book-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Barb, proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ourseedsofinspiration.com\/\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a>, will be on hand with her handcrafted aromatherapy pillows and sachets.\u00a0 If you&#8217;re lucky, she may also be taking orders for her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/bliebermanauthor\/\">new book, <em>To Reap the Whirlwind, <\/em><\/a>which is the prequel to her recently-published historic love story, <em><a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1508854815\/ref=x_gr_w_bb_sout?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=x_gr_w_bb_sout-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1508854815&amp;SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2\">Message on the Wind<\/a><\/em>.\u00a0 (<em>To Reap the Whirlwind<\/em> is set for release on January 16, 2016.)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Ellie-with-her-work.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8104\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Ellie-with-her-work.jpg\" alt=\"Ellie with her work\" width=\"700\" height=\"567\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Ellie-with-her-work.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Ellie-with-her-work-300x243.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Ellie-with-her-work-370x300.jpg 370w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Meanwhile, as proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops<\/a>, Ellie creates an enchanting miniature world: fairy doors, gardens, dolls and houses.\u00a0 The magic spills over into <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/EllieLiebermanAuthor\/\">her writing<\/a>: her first book, <em><a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/books.html\">Society&#8217;s Foundlings<\/a><\/em>, is a short story for young adults, with a subtle beauty among the stark setting that is the world of her four protagonists.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Ellie-reads-Societys-Foundlings1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8679\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Ellie-reads-Societys-Foundlings1.jpg\" alt=\"Ellie reads Societys Foundlings1\" width=\"700\" height=\"546\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Ellie-reads-Societys-Foundlings1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Ellie-reads-Societys-Foundlings1-300x234.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Ellie-reads-Societys-Foundlings1-385x300.jpg 385w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Ellie is currently writing a short story for the upcoming anthology <em>A Horde of Dragons<\/em>, to be published in July, 2016.\u00a0 Look for a number of other new and exciting works from her, as well, within the next few years.\u00a0 As she inspires with her writing, Ellie is also reaching out to the community in other ways.\u00a0 She&#8217;s involved in supporting a fantastic nonprofit: <a href=\"http:\/\/uprisebooks.org\/\">The Uprise Books Project<\/a>, which uses banned and challenged books to inspire underprivileged teens.<\/p>\n<p>Those are just a few of my &#8220;picks&#8221; for the weekend&#8211;but you&#8217;ll probably discover a lot of favorites of your own!\u00a0 Have fun!<\/p>\n<h5><strong><em>The Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 46th annual Holiday Arts and Craft Faire happens Saturday and Sunday, November 21st and 22nd, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, located at Madrona and Torrance Boulevard.\u00a0 Hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and admission is free.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8626\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8559\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221;: Looking Back, Looking Forward<\/a>  November 14, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8570\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-sign-and-booths-e1447482455249.jpg\" alt=\"jackalope sign and booths\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>More than 200 all-handmade vendors were onsite, at Central Park.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8573\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/in-the-park1-e1447482581531.jpg\" alt=\"in the park1\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8572\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg\" alt=\"cat mask\" width=\"5888\" height=\"3312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask.jpg 5888w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/cat-mask-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 5888px) 100vw, 5888px\" \/><\/a>Anyone who wanted to make something fun, had that opportunity.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8577\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope.jpg\" alt=\"welcome to jackalope\" width=\"428\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope.jpg 428w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/welcome-to-jackalope-214x300.jpg 214w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px\" \/><\/a>And attendees had a great time, getting to meet and talk with the makers at last weekend&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a>, in Pasadena.<\/p>\n<p>This weekend, &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; hops into Denver, for a two-day stay.<\/p>\n<p>During our visit to this second Jackalope Pasadena, we enjoyed early Christmas shopping&#8211;and exploring the many unique talents the exhibitors displayed.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8575\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg\" alt=\"sara at Jackalope Pasadena\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-Jackalope-Pasadena-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Jackalope Arts co-founder Sara Vausbinder looked like she was having fun&#8211;and like <em>she<\/em> couldn&#8217;t resist buying something amazing, either!\u00a0 (Sara and partners Melissa Shipley and Laura Fischer have good reason to be proud of their creation.\u00a0 Jackalope Art and Craft Fair just made its debut in Pasadena in April!)<\/p>\n<p>One of the best parts of<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\"> Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a>?\u00a0 Its mission is to give attendees a chance to meet the makers, and hear the stories behind their high-quality creations.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8580\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg\" alt=\"rondo1\" width=\"600\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-300x282.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/rondo1-320x300.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>At the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/ColdwaterCanyon\">Coldwater Canyon Provisions<\/a> booth was Rondo Mieczkowski, offering his small-batch handcrafted artisan jam, preserves and pickles. You&#8217;ll recall, from an earlier <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?m=201311&amp;paged=15\">interview<\/a>, that everything he makes is from a family or heirloom recipe..\u00a0 His tarragon cherries and dill pickles are to die for, and his strawberry-rhubarb jam is an award-winner!\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/david1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8581\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/david1.jpg\" alt=\"david1\" width=\"600\" height=\"553\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/david1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/david1-300x277.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/david1-325x300.jpg 325w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And aren&#8217;t these gorgeous?\u00a0 David Ortega is passionate about woodworking.\u00a0 But, he says, he hadn&#8217;t originally intended to start a small business when he made his first clock. After friends commented on the beauty of his work, he made a couple of other ones to sell on Etsy, and his small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.heirloomsetc.net\/\">Heirlooms Etc<\/a>., was born!\u00a0 (Jackalope Pasadena was actually David&#8217;s first craft show.\u00a0 If\u00a0 you&#8217;d like to see his work firsthand, he&#8217;s exhibiting at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.heirloomsetc.net\/\">Paseo Arts and Holly Fest<\/a>, in December!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/seahorse.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8584\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/seahorse.jpg\" alt=\"seahorse\" width=\"511\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/seahorse.jpg 511w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/seahorse-256x300.jpg 256w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 511px) 100vw, 511px\" \/><\/a>Another favorite?\u00a0 Tandy Wilson&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tzmetalworks.com\/\">TZ Metalworks and Design<\/a> creations! \u00a0 Her owl ornaments are a lot of fun, and her dragonfly lantern is absolutely beautiful.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Crystal1-e1447484068206.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8585\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Crystal1-e1447484068206.jpg\" alt=\"Crystal1\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>And for our Christmas decor, we found a little <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/threadtherapy1\">Thread Therapy<\/a> was just what the doctor ordered!\u00a0 Crystal Van Brimmer takes a vintage craft and makes it her own in a fresh and festive way.\u00a0 She has all kinds of Christmas and all-occasion string-art designs!<\/p>\n<p>Asked how she came to choose string art, Crystal explained that she&#8217;d been asked to teach a class.\u00a0 She wasn&#8217;t certain what to teach, until she surfed the web, saw some of the vintage pictures and decided this was a medium she wanted to try.<\/p>\n<p>(We remember string-art from &#8216;way back when, but we don&#8217;t remember it looking <em>this<\/em> professional!\u00a0\u00a0 We couldn&#8217;t resist her gold snowflake, for Christmas.\u00a0 But if you&#8217;d rather have a custom design, Crystal can do those, as well.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/yeti1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8586\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/yeti1.jpg\" alt=\"yeti1\" width=\"600\" height=\"522\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/yeti1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/yeti1-300x261.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/yeti1-345x300.jpg 345w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And, seriously, who <em>doesn&#8217;t<\/em> need a yeti?\u00a0 These scary-cute handcrafted fantasy monsters are available through <a href=\"http:\/\/yetisandfriends.tumblr.com\/\">Yetis and Friends<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/amedeo.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8589\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/amedeo.jpg\" alt=\"amedeo\" width=\"600\" height=\"557\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/amedeo.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/amedeo-300x279.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/amedeo-323x300.jpg 323w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Meanwhile, graphic designer Amedeo Tessuti was offering his intricately-patterned T-shirts.\u00a0 He had some &#8220;awesome holiday shirts&#8221; available through his small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.krakencreativecompany.com\/\">Kraken Creative Company<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/ali1-e1447485659482.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/ali1-e1447485659482.jpg\" alt=\"ali1\" width=\"600\" height=\"337\" \/><\/a>And the theme was steampunk, with all these cool creations by Ali, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/AccessoryAlchemy\">Accessory Alchemy<\/a>!\u00a0 If you&#8217;re in the Southern California area, she&#8217;s also exhibiting at the <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/upcoming-shows\/\">Patchwork Show<\/a>, in Long Beach, this Sunday.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8591\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg\" alt=\"jen and her hoop 2\" width=\"600\" height=\"545\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-300x273.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jen-and-her-hoop-2-330x300.jpg 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>We also had the opportunity to meet Jen, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eclectichoops.com\/\">Eclectic Hoops.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/a>She was inspired to start making hoops, she said, after attending the Burning Man Festival.\u00a0 In addition to these &#8220;fun&#8221; fur hoops, she makes some standard candystriped ones&#8211;and some flaming ones.\u00a0 But, she tells us, she lets the experts take care of the technology on the latter!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-11-e1447486254104.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8593\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshops-and-hula-hoops_edited-11-e1447486254104.jpg\" alt=\"workshops and hula hoops_edited-1\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>Throughout the afternoon, Jen would offer prospective clients a chance to try her standard hoops.\u00a0 She also offered a hooping workshop, on Sunday afternoon!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshop-tent11-e1447486352201.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8594\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/workshop-tent11-e1447486352201.jpg\" alt=\"workshop tent1\" width=\"600\" height=\"486\" \/><\/a>Meanwhile, <a href=\"http:\/\/spaceartscenter.com\/\">SPACE Arts Center<\/a>, from South Pasadena, offered hands-on DIY workshops&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8595\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg\" alt=\"SPACE mask1\" width=\"434\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1.jpg 434w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/SPACE-mask1-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;and, here is one of the masks participants could make.\u00a0 (SPACE Arts Center has a &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/spaceartscenter.com\/exhibitions\/view\/handmade-holiday-show\/\">Handmade Holiday Boutique<\/a>&#8220;, opening today!)<\/p>\n<p>The second Jackalope Pasadena Fair also had food trucks, and some of the best coffee we&#8217;ve ever had.\u00a0 It was a great way to enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/adopt-me-pup.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8596\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/adopt-me-pup.jpg\" alt=\"adopt me pup\" width=\"600\" height=\"553\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/adopt-me-pup.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/adopt-me-pup-300x277.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/adopt-me-pup-325x300.jpg 325w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;and they even offered the opportunity to go home with a new &#8220;forever&#8221; family member, courtesy of the Pasadena Humane Society.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-the-booth1-e1447486765126.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8598\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/sara-at-the-booth1-e1447486765126.jpg\" alt=\"sara at the booth1\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a>People were already asking when the next Jackalope Pasadena was coming to town, as we left.\u00a0 And you might like to mark your calendar: Sara says the Spring show returns to Pasadena the weekend of April 30 &#8211; May 1, 2016!<\/p>\n<h6><em>Meanwhile, Jackalope Art and Craft Fair is traveling!\u00a0 This Saturday and Sunday, November 14th and 15th, they&#8217;ll have more than 100 juried artisans at their &#8220;Winter Fair&#8221; at EXDO Event Center, 1399 35th Street, near Walnut, in Denver, CO.\u00a0 Hours are 10 am to 5 pm, both days, and admission&#8217;s free.\u00a0 <\/em><\/h6>\n<h6><\/h6>\n<h6><em>Then, on December 12th and 13th, the Jackalope Fair makes its first Arizona appearance, in Steele Indian School Park, 300 East Indian School Road near West 3rd Street, in Phoenix, AZ.\u00a0 Again, hours are 10 am to 5 pm, both days, with admission free.<\/em><\/h6>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8559\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8494\">&#8220;Jackalope&#8221; Coming to Pasadena<\/a>  November 4, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8503\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8503\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8503\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope.jpg\" alt=\"(Courtesy of Sara Vausbinder\/Jackalope Arts, and used with permission.)\" width=\"400\" height=\"409\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/jackalope-293x300.jpg 293w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8503\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Courtesy of Sara Vausbinder\/Jackalope Arts, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Uh-oh&#8211;a &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; is on the loose!<\/p>\n<p>And three different cities are going to have a great time.<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th, the second <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair<\/a> is happening in Pasadena.\u00a0 This is a brand-new, all-handmade multicity arts market, just started in April of this year.\u00a0\u00a0 And their mission is to give communities the opportunity to meet the makers.\u00a0 (They also have hands-on DIY workshops, since all of us are &#8220;makers&#8221; in some way!)<\/p>\n<p>Jackalope Arts co-founder Sara Vausbinder has a background in music, PR and special events (she has her own record label!).\u00a0 She and partners Melissa Shipley and Laura Fischer created Jackalope Art Fair to run in each of their three home cities.\u00a0 (Jackalope shows are coming up in Denver and Phoenix, within the next few weeks.).<\/p>\n<p>Sara talked about the experience of creating Jackalope Arts, shared a favorite experience from the first Pasadena &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; (which is a great lesson in branding and preparation!), and offered a preview of this weekend&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\">Jackalope Art and Craft Fair.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-8494-6\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_5_sara_vausbinder.mp3?_=6\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_5_sara_vausbinder.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_5_sara_vausbinder.mp3<\/a><\/audio><\/p>\n<h5><em>The second Pasadena Jackalope Art and Craft Fair happens this Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Central Park, 275 South Raymond Avenue, north of Del Mar, in Pasadena.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8494\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8477\">&#8220;Epic&#8221; Weekend Coming Up in SF<\/a>  November 2, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8488\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/urban_epic_facebook_ad-608x318-2-e1446426824788.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8488\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8488\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/urban_epic_facebook_ad-608x318-2-e1446426824788.jpg\" alt=\"(Courtesy of Jamie Chan\/Urban Epic Fest, and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"314\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8488\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Courtesy of Jamie Chan\/Urban Epic Fest, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>O-kay.\u00a0 So we did just <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">have<\/span> a weekend.<\/p>\n<p>But, lots of us are now thinking about Christmas shopping.\u00a0 And besides, what&#8217;s coming up in San Francisco <em>next<\/em> weekend should be enough to cure anyone&#8217;s case of &#8220;the Mondays&#8221;!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_4479\" style=\"width: 407px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SF-Bazaar-Square1-e1445706912994.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4479\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4479\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SF-Bazaar-Square1-e1445706912994.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of San Francisco Bazaar.)\" width=\"397\" height=\"500\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4479\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of San Francisco Bazaar.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/sanfranciscobazaar.org\/\">San Francisco Bazaar<\/a> has evolved into something brand-new.\u00a0 Next Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th, they&#8217;re premiering &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/urbanepicfest.com\/\">Urban Epicurean Festival, a Festival of Food, Drink and Design<\/a>&#8220;, at Fort Mason.\u00a0 (But it&#8217;s much easier to call it Urban Epic Fest!)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/urbanepicfest\">Urban Epic Fest<\/a> will feature some of the best Bay Area artisan food crafters and vintners. They&#8217;ll also still include a wide range of great &#8220;makers&#8221; and artists.\u00a0 In addition, though, they&#8217;re going to have a series of hands-on workshops, including succulent terrarium creation, gardening and beekeeping.<\/p>\n<p>San Francisco Bazaar co-founder Jamie Chan is the director of Urban Epic Fest, as well as an arts entrepreneur in her own right. \u00a0 (She&#8217;s the\u00a0 proprietor of fiber arts boutique <a href=\"http:\/\/urbanfaunastudio.com\/\">Urban Fauna Studio.<\/a>)\u00a0 She talked about her background as an artist, her experiences makng San Francisco Bazaar a reality and how she decided to develop the popular crafts show into Urban Epic Fest.\u00a0 And, she offered a preview of what visitors will see at Fort Mason when they visit the first-ever Urban Epic Fest, next weekend!<\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-8477-7\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_2_jamie_chan.mp3?_=7\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_2_jamie_chan.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/noelophile_2_jamie_chan.mp3<\/a><\/audio><\/p>\n<p><em>Urban Epic Festival happens Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th, 11:30 am to 6:30 pm at Fort Mason Center&#8217;s Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Boulevard.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8477\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8410\">A &#8220;Crafty&#8221; Roundup<\/a>  October 24, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/fairs-e1445669105421.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8414\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/fairs-e1445669105421.jpg\" alt=\"fairs\" width=\"500\" height=\"277\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>How would you like to spend Christmas Eve in an overcrowded mall?\u00a0 Where you frantically grab six kinds of the same &#8220;whatever&#8221; for friends and family members?<\/p>\n<p>Me neither.<\/p>\n<p>So, here&#8217;s a &#8220;roundup&#8221; of some favorite upcoming crafts and artisan fairs&#8211;and some new ones!&#8211;that you might like to put on your calendar.\u00a0 I can recommend at least three of these from experience, for unique, locally-made gifts with a story&#8211;and a gifted artist&#8211;behind them.<\/p>\n<p>And the best part is, the first one happens in the Bay Area this weekend.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Patchwork-show-festival_edited-1-e1445669147415.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8415\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Patchwork-show-festival_edited-1-e1445669147415.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork show festival_edited-1\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" \/><\/a>The <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show<\/a> comes to Oakland tomorrow, this <strong>Sunday, October 25th<\/strong>.\u00a0 It&#8217;s happening <strong>11 am to 5 pm<\/strong> in Jack London Square, and admission&#8217;s free.<\/p>\n<p>Then, in November, they&#8217;ll have two Southern California shows: in Long Beach, at Marine Stadium, <strong>Sunday, November 15th, 11 am to 5 pm.<\/strong>\u00a0 Or, if you&#8217;re free Thanksgiving weekend, you can also check out the Santa Ana edition: <strong>Sunday, November 29th, 11 am to 5 pm <\/strong>at 2nd and Sycamore.<\/p>\n<p>This one&#8217;s a total favorite, created by Dear Handmade Life artists Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell in 2008.\u00a0 Cool jewelry, soaps, clothes, a hands-on crafting booth and those hard-to-resist artisan popsicles are just a few of the fun things you&#8217;ll find!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8450\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/jackalope.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8450\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8450\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/jackalope.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Sara Vausbinder\/Jackalope Art Fair, and used with permission.)\" width=\"400\" height=\"409\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/jackalope.jpg 400w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/jackalope-293x300.jpg 293w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8450\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Sara Vausbinder\/Jackalope Art Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>New this year is the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/\">Jackalope Art Fair<\/a>, now gearing up for their second appearance in Southern California.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll be hosting their Fall Show on <strong>Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th<\/strong>, in Pasadena&#8217;s Central Park.\u00a0 Hours are <strong>10 am to 5 pm<\/strong>, both days, and admission&#8217;s free.<\/p>\n<p>This is a juried fair with more than 200 vendors, and their website reveals a wide selection of very imaginative creations. \u00a0 They&#8217;ll also be offering some onsite workshops!\u00a0 I&#8217;m hoping to see this particular show firsthand in November.<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve just had the pleasure of interviewing <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jackalopearts\">Jackalope Arts<\/a> co-founder Sara Vausbinder.\u00a0 She and fellow creatives Melissa Shipley and Laura Fischer have implemented their special event in\u00a0 all three of their home cities, to give their communities a chance to meet the artisans.\u00a0 So, another Winter Jackalope Fair is happening in Denver, the following weekend: Saturday and Sunday, November 14th and 15th, at EXDO Event Center.\u00a0 Then, there will be a December &#8220;Jackalope&#8221; in Phoenix, Saturday and Sunday, December 12th and 13th at Steele Indian School Park.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8447\" style=\"width: 618px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/urban_epic_facebook_ad-608x318-e1445793857318.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8447\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8447\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/urban_epic_facebook_ad-608x318-e1445793857318.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Jamie Chan\/Urban Epic Fest, and used with permission.)\" width=\"608\" height=\"318\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8447\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Jamie Chan\/Urban Epic Fest, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>In San Francisco, meanwhile, something new has been added!\u00a0 San Francisco Bazaar creator Jamie Chan is evolving her event into &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/urbanepicfest.com\/\">Urban Epic Fest&#8221;<\/a>, as a first-of-its-kind Bay Area convergence of\u00a0 artisan foods and drink with the work of talented makers.\u00a0 Billed as &#8220;A Festival of Food, Drink and Design&#8221;, the Urban Epicurean Festival happens <strong>Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th<\/strong>, at Fort Mason Center&#8217;s Festival Paviilion.\u00a0 Hours are <strong>11:30 am to 6:30 pm,<\/strong> both days, and admission&#8217;s free.<\/p>\n<p>So, what might you experience at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/urbanepicfest\">Urban Epic Fest<\/a>?\u00a0 They&#8217;re having workshops including craft brewing, air terrarium creation and easy cheese making&#8211;in under ten minutes!\u00a0 (There is an admission charge for workshops, and <a href=\"http:\/\/urbanepicfest.com\/workshops\/\">advance registration<\/a> is recommended).\u00a0 Meanwhile, I count more than 170 exhibitors in the &#8220;craft and design&#8221; category alone&#8211;without even telling you about the artisan coffee, chocolates, tea and other items that will delight &#8220;foodies&#8221; in their vendors&#8217; gallery!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8437\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/mosaic-craft-fair-e1445706234434.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8437\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8437\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/mosaic-craft-fair-e1445706234434.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Mosaic Craft Fair, and used with permission.)\" width=\"500\" height=\"338\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8437\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Mosaic Craft Fair, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Just heard of another relatively new craft show, as well, happening in Southern California.\u00a0 The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mosaiccraftfair.org\/\">Mosaic Craft Fair.\u00a0 <\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;There are so many talented and creative vendors!&#8221; emailed founders Claudia and Leslie.\u00a0 &#8220;We are up to 75+ vendors now.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Also, according to their flyer, they&#8217;ll have kids&#8217; activities, artisan foods and music at their second annual holiday show in Alhambra, on <strong>Sunday, November 15th.<\/strong>\u00a0 Hours are <strong>10 am to 4 pm<\/strong> at &#8220;The Alhambra&#8221;, at 1000 South Fremont Avenue.<\/p>\n<p>I haven&#8217;t yet experienced this one.\u00a0 However, considering the beautiful photographic art prints, jewelry and handcrafted leather items on their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/mosaiccraftfair?_rdr=p\">Facebook page<\/a>, I may just have to do some investigative reporting!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/renegade-sign2-e1445706528618.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4755\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/renegade-sign2-e1445706528618.jpg\" alt=\"renegade sign2\" width=\"379\" height=\"500\" \/><\/a>And of course, no roundup of crafts events would be complete without the<a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\"> Renegade Craft Fair<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;re the &#8220;indie&#8221; craft fair groundbreaker, started in 2003 to showcase independent artisans.\u00a0 They&#8217;re currently in eight cities, including London, Austin and Chicago.<\/p>\n<p>They, too, will be coming to San Francisco&#8217;s Fort Mason Festival Pavilion, the weekend of <strong>November 21st and 22nd,<\/strong> for their &#8220;Holiday Renegade Craft Fair&#8221;.\u00a0 Hours are <strong>11 am to 6 pm,<\/strong> both days, and admission is free.<\/p>\n<p>They promise more details forthcoming, but their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/sanfrancisco\/sanfrancisco-holiday-fair-details\">webpage<\/a> mentions that they&#8217;ll have DIY workshops, in addition to their artisans&#8217; exhibits.\u00a0 I can certainly tell you, from experience, that these do not disappoint!\u00a0 I&#8217;ve loved the inlaid wood cutting boards, antique-key jewelry and scented soaps from among the treasures their independent &#8220;artrepreneurs&#8221; create.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Los Angeles can also look forward to a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/losangeles\/losangeles-holiday-fair-details\">Holiday Renegade Craft Fair<\/a>.\u00a0 The Southern California edition is set for the weekend of <strong>December 12-13,<\/strong> in Grand Park, downtown L.A.\u00a0 Hours for the L.A. show are <strong>10 am to 5 pm<\/strong>, and this is a rain-or-shine event, with admission free.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/proud-member-sign-e1445707129817.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6357\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/proud-member-sign-e1445707129817.jpg\" alt=\"proud member sign\" width=\"369\" height=\"500\" \/><\/a>And&#8211;last but never least?\u00a0 A don&#8217;t-miss Christmastime event for me is <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s <\/a>Third Annual Holiday Boutique!\u00a0 Doesn&#8217;t seem possible that this all-handmade group of passionate entrepreneurs will have been doing this for three years already.\u00a0 But this third special Christmastime event happens <strong>Saturday, December 5th<\/strong>, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street in San Pedro.\u00a0 Their hours are <strong>11 am to 6 pm, and admission&#8217;s free.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>HMSB&#8217;s Holiday Boutique has really grown since the first one, with an Authors&#8217; Alley that may just tempt you to curl up, one afternoon, and give yourself a pre-Christmas treat of a great read accompanied by some hot chocolate and cookies.\u00a0 Their all-handmade vendors, last year, offered everything from handsewn quilts to steampunk jewelry (which resulted in a note with the words, &#8220;You know what we like!&#8221;, from some favorite Christmas gift recipients!).<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/artist-alley-e1445707329462.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6371\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/artist-alley-e1445707329462.jpg\" alt=\"artist alley\" width=\"474\" height=\"500\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Best of all, though, they&#8217;re a &#8220;give-back&#8221; kind of group.\u00a0 So in addition to supporting the local artists and entrepreneurs in their journey, they&#8217;ll be hosting a Young Entrepreneurs&#8217; section, as well as supporting <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DSTLArts\">DTSL Arts<\/a> students.\u00a0 And while there&#8217;s no official word yet this year, last year, the local Cub Scouts were on hand to gift-wrap purchases, in return for donations to their organization.<\/p>\n<p>So&#8211;these are just a few of the excellent independent-crafts events at which you may find some amazing gifts to give those you love, for Christmas 2015.\u00a0 Enjoy, and I may very well see you there.\u00a0 Writing this has made me feel &#8220;Christmasy&#8221; already!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8410\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8148\">Anaheim to Be &#8220;AGlitter&#8221;<\/a>  October 4, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_8303\" style=\"width: 417px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Glitterfest-fall-show-graphic.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8303\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8303\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Glitterfest-fall-show-graphic.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Glitterfest, and used with permission.)\" width=\"407\" height=\"599\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Glitterfest-fall-show-graphic.jpg 407w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/Glitterfest-fall-show-graphic-204x300.jpg 204w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 407px) 100vw, 407px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-8303\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Glitterfest, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Vintage Christmas ornaments, a juried selection of handcrafted creations by more than 50 locat artists, and&#8211;<em>chairs<\/em> for event fans, outside, as they wait for the doors to open?<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s absolutely right.\u00a0 And that&#8217;s a quick preview of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/\">Glitterfest<\/a>, a handmade mixed-media art sale.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Glitterfest\/342176706805\">Glitterfest <\/a>happens next Saturday, October 10th,\u00a0 at Anaheim Business Expo Center&#8211;but a little advance warning seems fair.\u00a0 While doors open at 10:00 am, people tend to get there early&#8211;and Glitterfest founders (and sisters) Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White welcome their fans with chairs, so they can wait comfortably.\u00a0 Which is a thoughtful start to what sounds like it&#8217;s going to be a very enjoyable day!<\/p>\n<p>While I haven&#8217;t had the opportunity to experience this one onsite yet, I hope to rectify that in another week.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Sheryl (a mixed-media artist in her own right) shared the story of Glitterfest, explained what first-time Glitterfest visitors can expect, and discussed some exciting changes at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.vintagewhimzy.com\/\">Whimzy!<\/a>, a treasure-filled vintage-item-and-crafts store of which Dianne is the proprietor.\u00a0 (Hint: in 2016, if you&#8217;re &#8220;crafty&#8221;, you may find even more you&#8217;ll enjoy on the premises!)<\/p>\n<p>Besides previewing Glitterfest&#8217;s Fall show, Sheryl also gave us a great tip on Christmas decorating&#8211;as well as a heads-up on some upcoming Christmas-season special events, for which you may want to mark your calendar now!<\/p>\n<p><audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-8148-8\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/sheryl_simpson_glitterfest.mp3?_=8\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/sheryl_simpson_glitterfest.mp3\">https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/audio\/sheryl_simpson_glitterfest.mp3<\/a><\/audio><\/p>\n<h5><em>Glitterfest&#8217;s Fall Show runs Saturday, October 10th, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Business Expo of Anaheim, 1960 South Anaheim Way, south of East Gene Autry Way in Anaheim.\u00a0 Admission is $7.00; here&#8217;s the<a href=\"http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/A-Guide-to-Glitterfest.html\"> link <\/a>for more information.<\/em><\/h5>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=8148\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7961\">Love and Stitches<\/a>  July 22, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-and-crocheted-flowers1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7968\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-and-crocheted-flowers1.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with sign and crocheted flowers1\" width=\"700\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-and-crocheted-flowers1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-and-crocheted-flowers1-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-and-crocheted-flowers1-448x300.jpg 448w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Crochet and knitting never looked so slinky&#8211;or so &#8220;tomorrow&#8221;.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7927\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-2.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with sign (2)\" width=\"700\" height=\"699\" \/><\/a>New nonprofit 501(c) <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/\">yes4arts<\/a> hosts their &#8220;Fiber Arts Fashion Show&#8221; this Saturday evening.\u00a0 This will be the first major fundraiser for the organization, which inspires and empowers students through free crochet, knitting and sewing classes.\u00a0 Five designers and seven outfits will be featured, and it&#8217;s going to be an entertaining, inspiring evening!<\/p>\n<p>Designer and yes4arts founder <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/listing\/9606418\/crochet-fashion-photo-catalogue-by-paula?ref=shop_home_active_1\">Paula Bennett<\/a> says the group just became a nonprofit about two months ago.\u00a0 Paula, who is the proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/paulacrochet\">Paula Crochet Fashion<\/a>, has some exciting goals in mind to expand yes4arts&#8217; capabilities to share fiber arts techniques with the next generation!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-at-CRAFTED2_edited-4.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7973\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-at-CRAFTED2_edited-4.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with dolls at CRAFTED2_edited-4\" width=\"700\" height=\"528\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-at-CRAFTED2_edited-4.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-at-CRAFTED2_edited-4-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-at-CRAFTED2_edited-4-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>At her booth at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, Paula previewed both the fashion show and a special yes4arts event, set for November, which will teach her students some of the basics of creative entrepreneurship.\u00a0 She also talked about her experiences as an artist\/entrepreneur, and offered an advance look at the designs she&#8217;s contributed to Saturday&#8217;s fashion show.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/dolls-with-crochet-hooks_edited-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/dolls-with-crochet-hooks_edited-2.jpg\" alt=\"dolls with crochet hooks_edited-2\" width=\"700\" height=\"508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/dolls-with-crochet-hooks_edited-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/dolls-with-crochet-hooks_edited-2-300x218.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/dolls-with-crochet-hooks_edited-2-413x300.jpg 413w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>She also explained how these dolls are changing the way people look at crochet!<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes4arts&#8217; first &#8220;Fiber Arts Fashion Show&#8221; happens Saturday evening, July 25th, from 6 to 10 pm in Toyota Meeting Hall which is part of Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 They\u2019re located at 3330 Civic Center Drive, near Madrona, in Torrance.\u00a0 NOTE: while the flyer lists ticket prices at $35, advance sale price is $25 each.\u00a0 Here\u2019s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">link<\/a> for more information.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Are you an artist who can donate one or more of your pieces to yes4arts&#8217; auction for that evening?\u00a0 Paula would love to hear from you; here&#8217;s her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Contact-Us.html\">contact form<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7961\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7925\">Preparing for a Premiere<\/a>  July 18, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7927\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-sign-2.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with sign (2)\" width=\"700\" height=\"699\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>One week from tonight, at 6:00 pm, is going to be exciting<em>.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s when the first-ever <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">Fiber Arts Fashion Show<\/a> benefit event, in support of new nonprofit yes4arts, takes to the stage at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 Visitors will see the work of five different designers!<\/p>\n<p>And this is going to be a celebration of local creativity, and making the arts accessible to the next generation.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-yes4arts-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7929\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-yes4arts-sign.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with yes4arts sign\" width=\"700\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-yes4arts-sign.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-yes4arts-sign-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-yes4arts-sign-447x300.jpg 447w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Nonprofit yes4arts inspires and empowers anyone who would like to learn needle arts.\u00a0 Founder Paula Bennett has been crocheting since she was a girl&#8211;and her designs tend to be slinky, sexy, romantic and anything <em>but<\/em> the stereotypical &#8220;crochet&#8221; image.<\/p>\n<p>Yes4arts teaches free ongoing classes in crochet, knitting, and basic sewing.\u00a0 Anyone, from beginner level on up, is welcome to come and learn.\u00a0\u00a0 Paula teaches classes on weekends at her booth in CRAFTED, in San Pedro, and her volunteers also teach at schools and senior centers.One of Paula&#8217;s specialties is teaching young girls how to crochet so they can make their own prom dresses.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Katherine-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7981\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Katherine-3.jpg\" alt=\"Katherine 3\" width=\"696\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Katherine-3.jpg 696w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Katherine-3-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Katherine-3-298x300.jpg 298w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>But younger students are also welcome.\u00a0 On Fridays, fellow artist Katherine Monasterio teaches classes in making these stuffed animals!<\/p>\n<p>Paula says that next Saturday evening&#8217;s show will include seven different designs.\u00a0 Among the designers supporting the show with their talents are Vintage Soul, which creates flirty feminine corsets and elaborate costumes, and LF Cubed Designs.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I can&#8217;t even describe the jewelry he makes,&#8221; Paula says.\u00a0 &#8220;You&#8217;ll just have to see it.&#8221;\u00a0 (LF Cubed proprietor Luis Fournier creates unique accessories and home items out of recycled circuit boards and e-waste!)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-and-top.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7940\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-and-top.jpg\" alt=\"Paula with dolls and top\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-and-top.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-and-top-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Paula-with-dolls-and-top-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Best of all, one hundred percent of the evening&#8217;s profits will go to support yes4arts, according to their website, and their goal is to keep these arts free and alive to everyone.\u00a0 (While Paula doesn&#8217;t ask for money, she does request that each of her students volunteer to teach the art she&#8217;s taught them to someone else.\u00a0\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Volunteer.html\">Volunteers<\/a> are welcome to help, and she can also use <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/donate.html\">donations<\/a> of yarn and crochet hooks.)<\/p>\n<p>There are still some <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">tickets available<\/a> for next Saturday&#8217;s Fiber Arts Fashion Show.\u00a0 You&#8217;re cordially, and creatively, invited to come out and support a great nonprofit that&#8217;s empowering the next generation of fiber artists!<\/p>\n<p><em>Nonprofit 501(c) charity yes4arts&#8217; first Fiber Arts Fashion Show happens Saturday evening, July 25th, from 6 to 10 pm at Toyota Meeting Hall, which is part of Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 They&#8217;re located at 3330 Civic Center Drive, near Madrona, in Torrance.\u00a0 NOTE: while the flyer lists ticket prices at $35, advance sale price is $25 each.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">link<\/a> for more information.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Like to know more about Paula&#8217;s free classes in knitting, sewing and crochet, or to help her preserve these arts by volunteering?\u00a0 Stop by her booth at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a>, in San Pedro, on Saturdays and Sundays!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7925\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7898\">Talent on Display<\/a>  July 11, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_7899\" style=\"width: 524px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/yes4arts-display-e1436478949260.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7899\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7899\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/yes4arts-display-e1436478949260.jpg\" alt=\"(Flyer courtesy of Paula Bennett and yes4arts, and used with permission.)\" width=\"514\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7899\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Flyer courtesy of Paula Bennett and yes4arts, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Two weeks from tonight is<em> it.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Your chance to support some gifted artists, and to pass on a maker&#8217;s art that <em>isn&#8217;t<\/em> dying out, thanks to a determined artist\/entrepreneur.<\/p>\n<p>That, of course, would be Paula Bennett&#8211;who&#8217;s using crochet to empower women, and to preserve the art of crochet and hand-knitting by teaching free classes.\u00a0 Along the way, Paula is also showing young girls that crochet goes far beyond &#8220;granny squares&#8221; and afghans.\u00a0 In fact, one of the projects in which Paula involves her young students, is the creation of their own prom dresses!.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7140\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign.jpg\" alt=\"Paula Crochet sign\" width=\"2021\" height=\"1077\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign.jpg 2021w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign-300x159.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign-1024x545.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Paula-Crochet-sign-500x266.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2021px) 100vw, 2021px\" \/><\/a>Paula, who grew up with crochet, is a professional designer who&#8217;s staging a unique fashion show through her new 501c nonprofit, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/index.html\">yes4arts.\u00a0<\/a> All the outfits on display will be handmade (think: crocheted, knitted and sewn).\u00a0 They&#8217;ll also be accessorized with handmade jewelry designed by local artists.<\/p>\n<p>Best of all, all proceeds from the show go to support Paula&#8217;s new organization, San Pedro-based yes4arts.\u00a0 They provide not only free classes, but free materials for knitting, sewing and crochet projects.\u00a0 Yes4arts project volunteers teach at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a>, in San Pedro, as well as schools, group homes and senior centers, according to the organization&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Programs.html\">website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Like to help inspire the next generation of fiber-arts &#8220;creatives&#8221;, while preserving the arts of crochet and needlework?\u00a0 Paula and company would love to have you attend the show, a week from next Saturday!<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes4arts&#8217; first Fiber Arts Fashion Show happens Saturday evening, July 25th, 6 to 10 pm at Toyota Meeting Hall, which is part of Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0 They&#8217;re located at 3330 Civic Center Drive, near Madrona, in Torrance.\u00a0 NOTE: while the flyer lists ticket prices at $35, advance sale price is $25 each.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.yes4arts.org\/Event.html\">link<\/a> for more information.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Like to know more about Paula&#8217;s free classes in knitting, sewing and crochet, or to help her preserve these arts by volunteering?\u00a0 Stop by her booth at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a>, in San Pedro, on Saturdays and Sundays!<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7898\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7763\">Where &#8220;Lavender&#8221; Blooms<\/a>  June 30, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7774\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/sign2.jpg\" alt=\"sign2\" width=\"700\" height=\"415\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/sign2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/sign2-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/sign2-500x296.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m going to step out of the crowd here&#8230;&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Good luck with that.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>That conversation, in the middle of Saturday&#8217;s Twelfth Annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a>, pointed up the event&#8217;s well-deserved number of attendees.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/shopping-OVLF._edited-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7782\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/shopping-OVLF._edited-2.jpg\" alt=\"shopping OVLF._edited-2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/shopping-OVLF._edited-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/shopping-OVLF._edited-2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/shopping-OVLF._edited-2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Art, crafts, speakers, music and, of course, all kinds of lavender-inspired treats, drew thousands to this early-summer celebration of lavender and community.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/wings21.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7783\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/wings21.jpg\" alt=\"wings2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/wings21.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/wings21-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/wings21-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>This was the first time we&#8217;ve had the opportunity to see the Festival, which was an all-day event in Libbey Park.\u00a0 Particular favorites from the day, besides the artists we saw, included community organizations such as this one.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7771\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2.jpg\" alt=\"Ojai Raptor Center2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Raptor-Center2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7784\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses.jpg\" alt=\"Bob poses\" width=\"700\" height=\"587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses-300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Bob-poses-357x300.jpg 357w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>This American Kestrel, named &#8220;Bob&#8221;, proved to be a real ham when he saw our camera!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-100.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7799\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-100.jpg\" alt=\"Ojai Lavender Festival, June 27, 2015 100\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-100.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-100-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Ojai-Lavender-Festival-June-27-2015-100-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>We also had the opportunity to meet <a href=\"http:\/\/scgrrescue.org\/#sthash.aqSopxfq.dpbs\">Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue <\/a>President Karyn King.\u00a0 The beautiful boy she&#8217;s hugging is Foxen, whom she&#8217;s had since he was nine months old.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;His previous owners didn&#8217;t realize he needed to be indoors, and he was constantly crying,&#8221; Karyn explained.\u00a0 So, she fostered Foxen, and another family adopted him, but&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The kids were allergic to him,&#8221; Karyn says.\u00a0 &#8220;I couldn&#8217;t let him be rejected a second time.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Karen says Foxen surfs for charity, every September at Surf Dogs, in Huntington Beach.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-chicks-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7769\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-chicks-too.jpg\" alt=\"lavender chicks too\" width=\"700\" height=\"474\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-chicks-too.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-chicks-too-300x203.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-chicks-too-443x300.jpg 443w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>In the petting zoo, we loved these lavender chickens!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/onstage3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7772\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/onstage3.jpg\" alt=\"onstage3\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a>And this band, Steel Cut, was excellent, and having a great time. (Live entertainment continued all day.\u00a0 In a separate area, speakers discussed topics including sustainable farming, beekeeping and cooking with lavender.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/jeannette-of-puzzled-one.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7808\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/jeannette-of-puzzled-one.jpg\" alt=\"jeannette of puzzled one\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/jeannette-of-puzzled-one.jpg 466w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/jeannette-of-puzzled-one-199x300.jpg 199w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px\" \/><\/a>Favorites, among the artists with whom we spoke (though it&#8217;s hard to choose favorites!) included &#8220;puzzling&#8221; artisan Jeannette Aragon, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.puzzled1.com\/\">The Puzzled One<\/a>.\u00a0 She handcrafts wooden puzzles and toys, and can custom-design just about anything as a puzzle!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/rodi-with-fabric-art2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7804\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/rodi-with-fabric-art2.jpg\" alt=\"rodi with fabric art2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/rodi-with-fabric-art2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/rodi-with-fabric-art2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/rodi-with-fabric-art2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Another artist whose work we really liked is Rodi Shemeta Ludlum.\u00a0 We&#8217;ve never seen fabric pottery before&#8211;but that&#8217;s exactly what she creates, for her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/rollingblackout?page=6\">Rolling Blackout<\/a> line!\u00a0 Rodi&#8217;s colorful and beautiful fabric bowls and vase designs include sun colors, sea greens and blues, and striking black and white.\u00a0 A personal favorite?\u00a0 Her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/listing\/209615504\/genie-in-a-ginger-jar-big-fabric-vase?ref=shop_home_active_21\">blue ginger jar<\/a>!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/icy-beauty.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7768\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/icy-beauty.jpg\" alt=\"icy beauty\" width=\"646\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/icy-beauty.jpg 646w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/icy-beauty-276x300.jpg 276w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 646px) 100vw, 646px\" \/><\/a>A number of attendees came with their four-legged friends.\u00a0 Couldn&#8217;t resist snapping a photo of this beautiful girl.\u00a0 Her name?\u00a0 &#8220;Ice&#8221;!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-flowers-closeup2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7770\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/lavender-flowers-closeup2.jpg\" alt=\"lavender flowers closeup2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a>We loved the Lavender Festival itself; the only caveat, if you go next year: watch out for that traffic.\u00a0 Arriving about 9 am, we were able to get free all-day parking (!).\u00a0\u00a0 However, in two more hours, not only were there no spaces to be had, but crossing the street became treacherous.\u00a0 We jumped out of the path of a car that was going to turn the corner, despite the pedestrians in the crosswalk, only to have another vehicle that had just passed inexplicably start backing in our direction (!).\u00a0 So please be careful when you leave Libbey Park and explore the rest of this otherwise-great community event.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-trolley.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7785\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-trolley.jpg\" alt=\"OVLF trolley\" width=\"700\" height=\"551\" \/><\/a>An alternative?\u00a0 The Ojai Trolley, which we rode, runs every hour and takes visitors to various locations throughout the area.\u00a0 It&#8217;s a good time and a beautiful ride through Ojai.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7763\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7648\">Looking Forward to &#8220;Lavender&#8221;<\/a>  June 20, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7482\" style=\"width: 462px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7482\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"452\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher-193x300.jpg 193w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Approximately thirteen years ago, a California artist received a rejection.<\/p>\n<p>Her response was something Ojai still celebrates&#8211;and so can you.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7698\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Ojai-by_Diana-Hatcher-e1434818058265.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7698\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7698\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Ojai-by_Diana-Hatcher-e1434818058265.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"468\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7698\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>One week from today, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival <\/a>happens in downtown Ojai&#8217;s Libbey Park.\u00a0 This is a free all-day, community-wied celebration of &#8220;Everything Lavender! Everything Ojai!&#8221;, complete with talented exhibiting artists and all-day live entertainment.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;My absolute best experience in working with this lovely festival has been the ability to further the education of many of our local residents,&#8221; emailed Festival President Cindy Mullins.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7696\" style=\"width: 478px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by_Diana-Hatcher-e1434818101671.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7696\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7696\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by_Diana-Hatcher-e1434818101671.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"468\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7696\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>The &#8220;education&#8221; part is due to the scholarships.\u00a0 Ojai Valley Lavender Festival awards scholarships to Ojai Valley youth to help them pursue green careers, according to the Festival webpage.\u00a0 Recipients&#8217; educational programs either focus on the beneficial uses of lavender, or on agricultural practices involved in growing the fragrant plant.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7688\" style=\"width: 490px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7688\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7688\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 480w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-overview-by-Diana-Hatcher-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7688\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>For this year&#8217;s Festival, more than 5,000 attendees are expected&#8211;and they&#8217;ll all get to experience the benefits of this generosity.\u00a0 Lavender oils, lavender sweets, lavender lemonade, lavender ice cream, soaps&#8211;and of course, some vendors with non-lavender but unique handmade items&#8211;will all be a part of the Festival.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7704\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-musicians2-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819327516.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7704\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7704\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-musicians2-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819327516.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7704\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Art, music and education are at the core of the celebration.\u00a0 The Festival&#8217;s lively all-day musical lineup, in the gazebo, will include the talents of Richard Kaller, Ventucky, and Smitty and Julia.\u00a0 The park&#8217;s south end will feature a speaker stage, with presentations on cooking, self-sustaining farming and beekeeping.<\/p>\n<p>And the Art Pavilion will display local artists&#8217; talents.\u00a0 OVA Arts recently put out a call for &#8220;lavender-themed art&#8221;; come see the first-, second- and third-place ribbon winners!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7693\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Art-Pavilion-by-Diana_Hatcher-e1434818141143.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7693\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Art-Pavilion-by-Diana_Hatcher-e1434818141143.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7693\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the lavender celebration is on, throughout the town!\u00a0 According to an Ojai Valley Lavender Festival press release, any food or beverage establishment in town, that day, will feature a lavender-related item on the menu.\u00a0 Lavender creme brulee, lavender margaritas, lavender meringues and lavender berry smoothies are all mentioned.\u00a0 And while I can&#8217;t say I&#8217;ve ever had lavender coffee, there&#8217;s a first time for everything!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7690\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/windchimes-by-Diana-Hatcherl-e1434818205877.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7690\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7690\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/windchimes-by-Diana-Hatcherl-e1434818205877.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7690\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>This will be a first for us, and looking at the list of vendors, I&#8217;m especially looking forward to seeing <a href=\"http:\/\/www.imaginationdepotonline.com\/store\/c1\/Featured_Products.html\">Imagination Depot<\/a> (this is a small business run by a couple who make old-fashioned wooden trains and cars, as well as hand-embroidered stuffed toys).\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.resinartnation.com\/\">ResinArtNation<\/a> looks interesting; the homepage explains that the artist uses her photographs and stamp collection to make jewelry.<\/p>\n<p>And of course, total favorite artists from before will be on hand:\u00a0 Mother-and-daughter artists Barb and Ellie Lieberman&#8211;proprietors of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ourseedsofinspiration.com\/store\/c10\/Wedding_Products.html\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/acorntops.weebly.com\/\">Acorn Tops <\/a>respectively&#8211;have both recently published new books, Barb&#8217;s third and Ellie&#8217;s first.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6343\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\" alt=\"barb lieberman\" width=\"580\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg 580w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman-248x300.jpg 248w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" \/><\/a>Barb&#8217;s second book, <em>To Miss the Stars<\/em>, literally cost me sleep&#8211;I couldn&#8217;t put it down!\u00a0 (And if there&#8217;s a wedding in your future, you might also like to ask her about her bride-and-groom sachets&#8211;very cute and creative!)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6344\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie.jpg\" alt=\"ellie\" width=\"508\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie.jpg 508w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/ellie-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px\" \/><\/a>Ellie, meanwhile, uses her talents for an enchanting take on &#8220;fairyland&#8221;.\u00a0 She creates fairy houses, fairy doors and gardens.\u00a0 Can&#8217;t wait to read <em>Society&#8217;s Foundlings<\/em>, her first book!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/jessica2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6358\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/jessica2.jpg\" alt=\"jessica2\" width=\"506\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a>And Jessica Johnson, proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jessiejinspirations.com\/\">Jessie J Inspirations<\/a>, creates graphics that are ooh-and-aah gorgeous!\u00a0 Jessie recently illustrated her first children&#8217;s book, and according to her blog, she also just exhibited her work in another art gallery, this month!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7687\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-entertainment-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7687\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7687\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-entertainment-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-entertainment-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 640w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-entertainment-by-Diana-Hatcher-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-entertainment-by-Diana-Hatcher-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7687\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival promises to be a celebration of &#8220;community&#8221; in the best sense.\u00a0 A look at their vendor list reveals not only the local lavender farms but nonprofit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.welcomehomesoldierfoundation.org\/\">Welcome Home Soldier Foundation <\/a>and <a href=\"http:\/\/scgrrescue.org\/#sthash.1pVClHIh.dpbs\">Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Can&#8217;t wait to see all this!\u00a0 And&#8211;here&#8217;s the story behind the festivities.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7703\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-wreaths-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819343372.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7703\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7703\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-wreaths-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819343372.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7703\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Cindy emails that all this came about when an Ojai-area artist attended a lavender festival in Squim, Washington a number of years ago.\u00a0 The lady was so impressed, Cindy says, that she applied to become a vendor&#8211;only to be rejected, due to not being a local artist.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;She came back to California determined to have her own festival and thus, in 2004, the Ojai Lavender Festival was born,&#8221; Cindy emails.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7702\" style=\"width: 535px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819206395.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7702\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7702\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-Lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819206395.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7702\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>The original founder moved on five years later, but, Cindy says, several locals decided to continue the festival, now called the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival and celebrating its twelfth anniversary.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7705\" style=\"width: 535px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-growing-lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819302348.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7705\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7705\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/OVLF-growing-lavender-by-Diana-Hatcher-e1434819302348.jpg\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7705\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Happy Anniversary, Ojai Valley Lavender Festival!\u00a0 What a good thing the Squim, Washington festival said &#8220;no&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p><em>The 12th Annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival runs from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday, June 27th, in\u00a0 Libbey Park, between South Montgomery and South Signal Streets in downtown Ojai.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7648\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7576\">Here Comes Summer<\/a>  May 25, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7585\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Show, longshot view\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Show-longshot-view-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>If you&#8217;d been in Santa Ana on Sunday, you would have seen one sure sign that summer&#8217;s on the way.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7584\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork show booth\" width=\"700\" height=\"453\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/patchwork-show-booth-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Santa Ana&#8217;s edition of the Spring 2015 <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\">Patchwork Show <\/a>was a lot of fun.\u00a0 This is the second one of three (with the third coming up in Long Beach in two weeks).\u00a0 They had a great turnout, and we found lots of new favorites among their 150-plus vendors! <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Charlene-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7578\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Charlene-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg\" alt=\"Charlene of Ceecee and Bee\" width=\"700\" height=\"488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Charlene-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Charlene-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-300x209.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Charlene-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-430x300.jpg 430w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>We couldn&#8217;t resist the handcrafted Crimson Rose soap created by sisters Charlene Corn and Debbie Churchill, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ceeceeandbee.com\/\">Ceecee and Bee<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7579\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg\" alt=\"Debbie of Ceecee and Bee\" width=\"700\" height=\"506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Debbie-of-Ceecee-and-Bee-415x300.jpg 415w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>These are natural and organic products especially designed for sensitive skin.\u00a0 Charlene and Debbie grow some of the ingredients for their soaps themselves, in their own herb garden, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/CeeCeeandBee#\">Etsy<\/a> store information.\u00a0 Charlene said she also crocheted the washcloths she was offering for sale, at their booth!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Melinda-of-Cactus-Club.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7582\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Melinda-of-Cactus-Club.jpg\" alt=\"Melinda of Cactus Club\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Melinda-of-Cactus-Club.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Melinda-of-Cactus-Club-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Melinda-of-Cactus-Club-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Melinda Boyce creates vibrant, colorful graphics through her art print and paper goods company, <a href=\"http:\/\/cactusclubpaper.com\/\">Cactus Club Paper<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 I&#8217;m honestly disappointed in my camera exposure here, as it doesn&#8217;t come close to doing justice to the blues and greens on her whale print.\u00a0 Her cards, art prints and phone cases are available on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/CactusClub\">Etsy<\/a>&#8211;and don&#8217;t miss seeing &#8220;Llamarama&#8221;, which is one of the most fun among her designs.\u00a0 (Her rainbow-tinged &#8220;Space Bear&#8221;, complete with stars, is another favorite!)<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/food-trucks2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7597\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/food-trucks2.jpg\" alt=\"food trucks2\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/food-trucks2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/food-trucks2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/food-trucks2-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a> As usual, the Patchwork Show was a foodie&#8217;s paradise.\u00a0 Besides the food trucks, there were vendors offering macarons, s&#8217;mores, artisan popsicles and various other forms of culinary creativity&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/lemonade.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7581\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/lemonade.jpg\" alt=\"lemonade\" width=\"700\" height=\"543\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/lemonade.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/lemonade-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/lemonade-386x300.jpg 386w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>&#8230;Can we say &#8220;coolness&#8221; here?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Randy-and-Kat.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7624\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Randy-and-Kat.jpg\" alt=\"Randy and Kat\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Randy-and-Kat.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Randy-and-Kat-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Randy-and-Kat-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>In the area of food, we&#8217;re very proud of ourselves for <em>somehow<\/em> managing to resist <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thekandyjar.com\/\">The Kandy Jar&#8217;s <\/a>homemade fudge and peanut brittle (THIS time!).\u00a0 Artists and candymakers Kat Hinckley and Randy Mason told us there were NO substitutes, of any kind, in their products.\u00a0 &#8220;These were my grandmother&#8217;s recipes,&#8221; added Randy.\u00a0\u00a0 (If I hadn&#8217;t given up chocolate for the summer, Randy and Kat, I know I&#8217;d have indulged, hours ago!) <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7586\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork3.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork3\" width=\"700\" height=\"554\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork3-300x237.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork3-379x300.jpg 379w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>There was an eclectic mix of handmade (our favorites) and vintage items for sale.\u00a0 And the <a href=\"http:\/\/maxloveproject.org\/\">Max Love<\/a> Project booth provided some really good news!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/justin-wilford1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2296\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/justin-wilford1.jpg\" alt=\"justin wilford\" width=\"958\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/justin-wilford1.jpg 958w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/justin-wilford1-300x187.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/justin-wilford1-479x300.jpg 479w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 958px) 100vw, 958px\" \/><\/a>In a 2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2277\">interview<\/a>, Justin Wilford shared his story.<\/p>\n<p>Justin and his wife Audra created the nonprofit Max Love Project as their their four-year-old son, Max, fought brain cancer.\u00a0 Max Love provides resources and teaches families whole-body wellness strategies to fight childhood cancers.<\/p>\n<p>Well&#8211;one of the staffers at the booth told us Max is now eight years old, and doing well!<\/p>\n<p>Right next to the Max Love Project booth was another new favorite.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Nick-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7583\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Nick-1.jpg\" alt=\"Nick 1\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Nick-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Nick-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Nick-1-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"http:\/\/inforacause.com\/\">InFORaCAUSE<\/a> founder Nick Ventura created his socially-conscious retail store in 2013.\u00a0 All the products he offers are brands benefiting different causes.\u00a0 These include: education, peace in the Congo, and ending hunger.\u00a0 In addition, InFORaCAUSE donates 5 percent of their net profit to community nonprofit organizations, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/inforacause.com\/\">website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Anthe-of-Little-Muse.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7577\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Anthe-of-Little-Muse.jpg\" alt=\"Anthe of Little Muse\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Anthe-of-Little-Muse.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Anthe-of-Little-Muse-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Anthe-of-Little-Muse-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Next, we met Anthe Wosczyna, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/littlemusedesigns\">Little Muse Designs<\/a>.\u00a0 She completely wowed us.<\/p>\n<p>At first glance, her intricately-patterned mandala earrings and necklaces look embroidered.\u00a0 Closeup, though, you&#8217;ll see that they&#8217;re actually woven&#8211;with solid materials!\u00a0 Anthe said she creates her unique pieces with Japanese glass beads and Swarovski crystals.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gal-Musette.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7580\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gal-Musette.jpg\" alt=\"Gal Musette\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gal-Musette.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gal-Musette-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gal-Musette-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a> In addition to all the talented exhibitors and DIY crafts stations, there were bands to add to the festive atmosphere.\u00a0 Here, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.galmusetteduet.com\/home\">Gal Musette<\/a> rocks the OCCCA stage.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7589\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork4\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork4-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Is it any wonder that Santa Ana loves Patchwork? \u00a0 In a sense, this is a &#8220;welcome home&#8221; anniversary celebration for the festival, which creators Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell first started in a Santa Ana parking lot in 2008.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7590\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork show sign 2015\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-show-sign-2015-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And if you couldn&#8217;t make it to Santa Ana this weekend, for whatever reason?\u00a0 Not to worry.\u00a0 The next <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/patchworkshow?_rdr\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival <\/a>is set for Sunday, June 7th, in Long Beach!<\/p>\n<p><em>The third\u00a0 Spring 2015 Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival happens Sunday, June 7th, 11 am to 5 pm, at Long Beach&#8217;s Marine Stadium, Appian Way at Bayshore, and admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7576\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7522\">An Almost-Summer Roundup<\/a>  May 23, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7554\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade2.jpg\" alt=\"renegade2\" width=\"700\" height=\"540\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade2-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade2-388x300.jpg 388w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Memorial Day Weekend is here!\u00a0 So first of all, we&#8217;re acknowledging it with love, gratitude and thanks to our veterans, active members of our Armed Forces and their families.<\/p>\n<p>And secondly, we&#8217;re headed into summer!\u00a0 Here are a few of the special arts and crafts\u00a0 events you might like to keep in mind and\/or put on your calendar&#8211;starting with today.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/fountains.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7557\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/fountains.jpg\" alt=\"fountains\" width=\"700\" height=\"511\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/fountains.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/fountains-300x219.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/fountains-410x300.jpg 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Today, <strong>Saturday, May 23rd<\/strong>, at noon, at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.seasidestudiossanpedro.com\/\">Seaside Studios San Pedro<\/a>, you&#8217;ll get a chance to learn\u00a0 French-style silk painting with artist Susan Patricia!\u00a0 Her work incorporates vibrant colors and airy scenes that feel like she&#8217;s captured summer itself.\u00a0 (But words can&#8217;t do her justice&#8211;see what you think of her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.susanpatricia.com\/portfolio\/index.html\">portfolio<\/a>!)<\/p>\n<p>There are still a couple of seats available in the workshop, which runs from 12 to 4 pm.\u00a0\u00a0 Participants get to create a 22&#8217;x22&#8243; Chinese silk for either framing or a pillow, and a 15&#8243;x60&#8243; handrolled Chinese silk scarf.\u00a0 The class fee of $85 includes materials, and you can pick up your projects next weekend.\u00a0 Space is limited, though, so call Regina, at (<span class=\"fsl\"><span class=\"text_exposed_show\">562) 673-7660, to reserve.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em>Seaside Studios San Pedro is located at 525 No. Harbor Blvd. #3, between Beacon and O&#8217;Farrell Streets.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/summer-red-car1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7558\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/summer-red-car1.jpg\" alt=\"summer red car\" width=\"638\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/summer-red-car1.jpg 638w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/summer-red-car1-273x300.jpg 273w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><\/a>While you&#8217;re in the San Pedro area&#8211;this weekend or any other summer weekend&#8211;you might like to catch the local trolley and pay a visit to <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a>.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2157\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign too\" width=\"700\" height=\"460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-456x300.jpg 456w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>They&#8217;re a year-round crafts marketplace, open <strong>Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm.<\/strong>\u00a0 Their vendors offer handmade jewelry, artisan candies, clothing, purses, home decor and a lot more.\u00a0 They also have live music in the afternoons, along with a different DIY workshop every weekend.\u00a0 Today and tomorrow, they&#8217;re having hat-and-visor-painting classes at their &#8220;Creation Station&#8221; from 11 am to 6 pm.<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is located at 112 E. 22nd St, at Miner, in Warehouse Number 10.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, but you may want to catch the waterfront Red Car down from the cruise terminal.\u00a0 It&#8217;s a lot of fun, with some great views of the harbor.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Santa-Ana11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7565\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Santa-Ana11.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Santa Ana1\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Santa-Ana11.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Santa-Ana11-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Patchwork-Santa-Ana11-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/em>Tomorrow, <strong>Sunday, May 24th<\/strong>, a total almost-summer favorite returns to Santa Ana: the <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival<\/a>!\u00a0 This is a free event we absolutely love: eclectic crafts, artisan foods, great music and DIY workshops.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4280\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg\" alt=\"sign 3\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival runs from 11 am to 5 pm at Second and Sycamore, in Santa Ana.\u00a0 And if you can&#8217;t make this one&#8211;you get another chance next month!\u00a0 They&#8217;re coming to Long Beach on <strong>Sunday, June 7th,<\/strong> from 11 am to 5 pm, and they&#8217;ll be located at Marine Stadium (Appian Way and Bayshore) in Long Beach.<\/em> <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/SFO-butterfly.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7561\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/SFO-butterfly.jpg\" alt=\"SFO butterfly\" width=\"700\" height=\"725\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/SFO-butterfly.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/SFO-butterfly-289x300.jpg 289w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>OK, I keep talking about Southern California here&#8211;but Northern Cal is getting ready for an iconic summertime celebration!\u00a0 San Francisco&#8217;s 39th annual free <a href=\"http:\/\/www.unionstreetfestival.com\/\">Union Street Festival <\/a>happens <strong>June 6th and 7th<\/strong>, from 10 am to 6 pm, on Union Street between Steiner and Gough.\u00a0 In addition to crafts, local technology and fitness, they host a fashion show, along with live performances.\u00a0 One element here that makes this one more of an over-21 venue than some of the others: beer and wine sampling.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gayle-and-Regina-laughing.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7552\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gayle-and-Regina-laughing.jpg\" alt=\"Gayle and Regina laughing\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gayle-and-Regina-laughing.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gayle-and-Regina-laughing-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/Gayle-and-Regina-laughing-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>What else is going on this summer?\u00a0 Well, back to Seaside Studios San Pedro&#8211;as\u00a0\u00a0 proprietors Regina Fernandez and Gayle Fleury make sure there are plenty of creative &#8220;How I Spent My Summer Vacation&#8221; options for everyone!<\/p>\n<p>For the littler kids, their first session of &#8220;Summer Kids&#8217; Art Camp&#8221; starts <strong>Monday, June 15th, and runs through the 19th, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Young artists between 7 and 13 get to spend a week pa<strong>i<\/strong>nting, doing wire wrapping\/sculpture, working in ceramics, weaving baskets, and more.\u00a0 There will also be a second session in July, from <strong>Monday, July 13th through Friday, July 17th.\u00a0 T<\/strong>he fee is $150 per child, per session, but some discounts are available for siblings or pre-enrollment, according to Seaside Studios San Pedro&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro\/653664764671506?fref=ts\">Facebook page<\/a>.\u00a0 Call Regina (562-673-7660) or Gayle (310-221-2914) for more information.<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Thankfully, Regina and Gayle haven&#8217;t forgotten us &#8220;big kids&#8221;, either!\u00a0 Seaside Studios San Pedro is hosting a one-day Glass Art and Glass Clay Class with world-renowned glass artist <a href=\"http:\/\/paularadke.com\/\">Paula Radke<\/a>, on <strong>Saturday, June 27th from 1 pm to 5 pm<\/strong>.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/966012593438598\/\">link<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<p>But&#8211;as usual&#8211;there&#8217;s more going on in the creative community than there is time to enjoy\u00a0 it all.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7482\" style=\"width: 462px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7482\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"452\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher-193x300.jpg 193w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Of course, <strong>Saturday, June 27th, 10 am to 5 pm<\/strong> <em>would<\/em> also be the date and time of the twelfth annual\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a>.\u00a0 This is a celebration of all types of ways to use lavender (cooking, soaps, oils, lemonade, ice cream, etc.) as well as another gathering of talented artist entrepreneurs with their one-of-a-kind handmade creations.\u00a0 Their program includes live music, all day, as well as speakers on the topics of all things lavender. (Where is J.K. Rowling with her &#8220;Time-Turner&#8221; mechanism when we really, <em>really<\/em> need her?)<\/p>\n<p><em>The twelfth annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival happens in Libbey Park, at East Ojai Avenue between South Signal Street and South Montgomery Street.<\/em>\u00a0 <em>Parking and admission are free, and free shuttles are available.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7562\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair.jpg\" alt=\"renegade fair\" width=\"1775\" height=\"1605\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair.jpg 1775w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair-300x271.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair-1024x925.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-fair-331x300.jpg 331w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1775px) 100vw, 1775px\" \/><\/a>And as we get into July (bring your parasol for this one, it&#8217;s always hot and sunny, but fun!), we certainly can&#8217;t forget <a href=\"www.renegadecraft.com\">Renegade Craft Fair,<\/a> which returns to Los Angeles on <strong>Saturday and Sunday, July 11th and 12th, from 11 am to 6 pm.\u00a0 <\/strong>Renegade has been showcasing indie craftspeople since 2003 (before they were called &#8220;makers&#8221;!), and always has an impressive lineup of unique jewelry, fiber art, woodworking, glass, ceramics and much more.\u00a0 Their Los Angeles location will be Grand Park LA, at North Grand Avenue between Broadway and Spring, and admission is free.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7563\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2.jpg\" alt=\"renegade sign2\" width=\"489\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2.jpg 489w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/renegade-sign2-209x300.jpg 209w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 489px) 100vw, 489px\" \/><\/a>Then, the following weekend, it&#8217;s off to Northern California for the talented Renegade community!\u00a0 Their San Francisco Fair happens <strong>Saturday and Sunday, July 18th and 19th<\/strong>,<strong>11 am to 6 pm,<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><em> Renegade San Francisco Fair will be located in the Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd, on the corner of Marina Blvd. and Buchanan St.\u00a0\u00a0 Again, admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Also, if you happen to be a wholesale buyer of crafts for your own business, Renegade hosts their &#8220;San Francisco Wholesale Market&#8221; on Friday, July 17th, from 12 noon to 5 pm.\u00a0 RSVP is required to attend on Friday; here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/sanfrancisco-wholesale-market\">link.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Now, how&#8217;s that for a &#8220;crafty&#8221; start to Summer, 2015?\u00a0\u00a0 Have a safe and creative holiday weekend.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7522\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7467\">Summertime in Purple<\/a>  May 9, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7482\" style=\"width: 462px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7482\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)\" width=\"452\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/OVLF-2015-poster-by-Diana-Hatcher-193x300.jpg 193w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7482\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>First of all&#8211; a very happy Mother&#8217;s Day weekend, to you and your Mom!\u00a0 And all the other special women who&#8217;ve passed down their favorite crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Now&#8211;in case Mom loves lavender (and who doesn&#8217;t?), here&#8217;s a date you and she might want to keep in mind.<\/p>\n<p>On Saturday, June 27th, the Twelfth Annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival <\/a>is happening! \u00a0 This is a day-long celebration of all things lavender, with lavender-themed art on display, a variety of handmade-only crafts offerings (lavender and otherwise) and live entertainment, all day, at the Gazebo in Ojai&#8217;s Libbey Park.<\/p>\n<p>While past Lavender Festivals have included lavender ice cream, lavender lemonade and artisan soaps, not everything has to be lavender-related.\u00a0 Crafters have been on hand, in the past, with jewelry, quilts, accessories, stained-glass mobiles, and all kinds of other cool (handmade-only) offerings.<\/p>\n<p>You may very well like to plan a &#8220;girls&#8217; weekend away&#8221; in Ojai for you and Mom, to check this one out.\u00a0 Or, if you&#8217;d both like to help out, the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Ojai-Valley-Lavender-Festival\/124609254218420?fref=ts\">Facebook page<\/a> says they always welcome volunteers, too!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Twelfth Annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival happens on Saturday, June 27th, from 10 am to 5 pm in Libbey Park, located between South Montgomery and South Signal Streets in downtown Ojai.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7467\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7438\">A Red-White-and-Blue Tribute<\/a>  May 2, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7459\" style=\"width: 554px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/HMSB-flyer.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7459\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7459\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/HMSB-flyer.jpg\" alt=\"(Flyer courtesy of Jessica Johnson, of Jessie J Inspirations, and used with permission.)\" width=\"544\" height=\"668\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/HMSB-flyer.jpg 544w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/HMSB-flyer-244x300.jpg 244w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 544px) 100vw, 544px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7459\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Flyer courtesy of Jessica Johnson, of Jessie J Inspirations, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Summer is almost here.\u00a0 And <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a> would like to invite you to something special.\u00a0 So, now&#8217;s the time for some advance notice!<\/p>\n<p>On Saturday, September 12th, HMSB will host its Second Annual &#8220;Salute Our Troops All-American Barbeque&#8221; at Ma Griffe Galerie!<\/p>\n<p>This is a fantastic time, with gifted artists in a beautiful creative space, for an excellent cause.\u00a0 (Oh&#8211;and the food&#8217;s really good, too!)<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll recall that <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">HMSB<\/a>, as a group of-handmade-only Southern California artist entrepreneurs, give back to the community at each of their events.\u00a0 This particular one is a fundraiser for San Pedro&#8217;s Packages for Patriots, a nonprofit which sends letters and care packages to deployed service members.\u00a0 So far, Packages for Patriots have sent more than nine thousand packages to our troops, according to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sanpedropackagesforpatriots.com\/\">website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>All proceeds from the &#8220;Salute Our Troops&#8221; barbecue will be donated to Packages for Patriots, according to HMSB&#8217;s<a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/uploads\/2\/6\/2\/5\/2625923\/salute_to_the_troops_all_american_bbq_fundraiser_registration_form.pdf\"> information page<\/a>.\u00a0 And if you&#8217;d like an idea of what last year&#8217;s BBQ was like, here&#8217;s a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=hEJvt6uAw4o\">video<\/a> that will give you a glimpse of the fun.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_6643\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6643\" class=\"size-full wp-image-6643\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)\" width=\"500\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2-298x300.jpg 298w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6643\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>What I remember best from last year&#8217;s &#8220;Salute Our Troops&#8221; barbecue was sitting at a festive table in Ma Griffe Galerie&#8217;s sunny garden.\u00a0 There was lots of laughter, a buffet in addition to the barbecue, a funny photo booth, complete with costures,\u00a0 and a silent auction and raffle.\u00a0 Our table kept winning things!\u00a0 And after lunch, guests were welcome to browse inside Ma Griffe, which is a jewel box of an artists&#8217; space, to see the work on exhibit.<\/p>\n<p>Well, we can&#8217;t guarantee the &#8220;winning things&#8221; part.\u00a0 But all of the above other features will be a part of this year&#8217;s barbecue&#8211;plus a special musical performance by The Satin Dollz!<\/p>\n<p>Last year, HMSB&#8217;s inaugural &#8220;Salute Our Troops All-American BBQ&#8221; raised $3,263 for Packages for Patriots, according to Seeds of Inspiration proprietor and HMSB founding member Barb Lieberman.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;We&#8217;re hoping to top that this year,&#8221; emailed Barb.<\/p>\n<p>Would you like to help Handmade in South Bay reach that goal&#8211;<em>and<\/em> have fun on a September Saturday afternoon?\u00a0 Reservations are required, and they warned us that space is limited.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/upcoming-events.html\">link<\/a> for more information; hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<p><em>.Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s Second Annual &#8220;Salute Our Troops All-American Barbecue&#8221; happens on Saturday, September 12th, 12 to 3 pm\u00a0 at Ma Griffe Galerie, 3624 South Gaffey Street at Leavenworth Drive in San Pedro.\u00a0 Seating is limited and all proceeds go to nonprofit San Pedro Packages for Patriots.\u00a0 More information is available<a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/upcoming-events.html\"> here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7438\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7404\">A &#8220;Delectable&#8221; Weekend<\/a>  April 25, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_7344\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7344\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7344\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png 1000w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600-300x180.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600-500x300.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7344\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Sweet.\u00a0 Savory.\u00a0 Salty.\u00a0 Sour.\u00a0 And all different variations thereof.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s what you&#8217;ll get to experience, if you have a chance to attend <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\">Artisanal LA&#8217;s<\/a> Spring Show this weekend.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM71391.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7426\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM71391.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7139\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM71391.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM71391-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM71391-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Now, if you&#8217;re unfamiliar with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Artisanal LA<\/a>, this is a two-day festival, at The Reef, that&#8217;s a &#8220;foodie&#8217;s&#8221; delight.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/hive.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7431\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/hive.jpg\" alt=\"hive\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/hive.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/hive-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/hive-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In addition to more than 150 local vendors offering free samples of handcrafted specialties, they have two days&#8217; worth of DIY workshops on creating artisanal foods, gardening and handcrafted objects for the home.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/chalk-paint1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7427\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/chalk-paint1.jpg\" alt=\"chalk paint\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/chalk-paint1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/chalk-paint1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/chalk-paint1-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/programming\/\">website<\/a>, this spring&#8217;s class offerings include Saturday&#8217;s &#8220;Growing a Community&#8221; with Artisanal LA founder Shawna Dawson; &#8220;Beekeeping 101&#8221; with Long Beach Beekeepers; and &#8220;Personalized Coaster Making&#8221;, courtesy of Deakin Leather.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/implements.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7425\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/implements.jpg\" alt=\"implements\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/implements.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/implements-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/implements-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Heart Beet Gardens will show attendees how to &#8220;Grow Food Not Lawns&#8221;, on Saturday afternoon in the garden classroom.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM7082.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7421\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM7082.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7082\" width=\"526\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM7082.jpg 526w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HPIM7082-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 526px) 100vw, 526px\" \/><\/a>Sunday&#8217;s program includes sessions on\u00a0 &#8220;Sourdough Everyday&#8221;, with Red Bread, and &#8220;Making Non-Toxic Baby Care Products&#8221; with Melissa Ramaekers.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/knotwork.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7424\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/knotwork.jpg\" alt=\"knotwork\" width=\"700\" height=\"526\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/knotwork.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/knotwork-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/knotwork-399x300.jpg 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Another favorite aspect of Artisanal LA: the indie artisans and &#8220;makers&#8221; who&#8217;ll be on hand.\u00a0 This spring&#8217;s exhibitors include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.aquestionofeagles.com\/\">A Question of Eagles<\/a>, with their nature-inspired jewelry, ceramics and quilts; <a href=\"http:\/\/bisonstarnaturals.com\/\">Bison Star Naturals<\/a>, with their vegan soaps, and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/inediblejewelry\">Inedible Jewelry<\/a>, with their miniature food accessories.\u00a0 (Their cotton-candy necklace and birthday cupcake earrings are laugh-out-loud fun!)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/angela.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7419\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/angela.jpg\" alt=\"angela\" width=\"526\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/angela.jpg 526w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/angela-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 526px) 100vw, 526px\" \/><\/a>And while you&#8217;re there, be sure to say &#8220;hi&#8221; to Angela Price, proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/EdenCondensed\">Eden Condensed<\/a>; she creates some gorgeous terrariums and small-space gardens.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7348\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Spr15-Card-w-Bleed-Front1-1000x431-e1428733269235.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7348\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7348\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Spr15-Card-w-Bleed-Front1-1000x431-e1428733269235.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"302\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7348\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Have a great time at Artisanal LA, and\u00a0 be sure to come hungry.\u00a0 You certainly won&#8217;t leave that way.<\/p>\n<p><em>Artisanal LA&#8217;s Spring Show happens this Saturday and Sunday, April 25th and 26th,\u00a0 11 am to 6 pm at The Reef, 1933 South Broadway, at Washington, in downtown Los Angeles.\u00a0 Tickets are available <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/artisanal-la-spring-show-tickets-3934632592\">online<\/a>, at a discount, or at the door.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7404\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7335\">More of a Great Thing<\/a>  April 19, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7356\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/craft-faire-banner.jpg\" alt=\"craft faire banner\" width=\"700\" height=\"460\" \/><\/a>Remember how, on December 6 of last year, there were craft fairs popping up everywhere?<\/p>\n<p>OK, we seem to have the spring edition of that, next weekend.<\/p>\n<p>A favorite, that I&#8217;m sorry to have to miss, gets the first mention here, as they prepare for their show next Saturday, April 25th.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7339\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HMSB-by-Oscar-Rosales-of-Bleenkies-e1428732258672.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7339\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7339\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/HMSB-by-Oscar-Rosales-of-Bleenkies-e1428732258672.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic created by Oscar Rosales of Bleenkies, and used with permission)\" width=\"700\" height=\"259\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7339\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic created by Oscar Rosales of Bleenkies, and used with permission)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s <\/a>shows are seriously addictive.\u00a0 According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">Facebook page,<\/a> their all-handmade exhibiting artists will include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/people\/queseradesigns\">Que Sera Designs<\/a>, with beaded jewelry that looks almost good enough to eat; <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thedelightfulbee\">The Delightful Bee<\/a>, offering whimsical felt flowers and magnets; and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/iDesignForYou\">iDesignforyou<\/a>, with some beautifully-stitched spring and summer purses.\u00a0 The suede seventies-look handbeaded fringe is a total favorite!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6643\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\" alt=\"HMSB_logo2\" width=\"500\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2.jpg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/HMSB_logo2-298x300.jpg 298w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>HMSB gives back to the community with every show; this time, they&#8217;ll be donating a portion of their proceeds to <a href=\"http:\/\/honeylove.org\/\">HoneyLove Urban Beekeepers<\/a>.\u00a0 So, part of their special event will be\u00a0 a <span class=\"fsl\">&#8220;Create a Pollinator-Friendly Garden&#8221; workshop by Lara Hughey<\/span>.\u00a0 (Barb Lieberman of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ourseedsofinspiration.com\/\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a> e-mailed that the workshop&#8217;s happening from 1:00 to 2:00 that afternoon, and there&#8217;s a charge of $20 per attendee for the session.<\/p>\n<p>A DJ, young entrepreneurs&#8217; section and Artists&#8217; Alley promise to keep things &#8220;buzzing&#8221; with activity.<\/p>\n<p>Now, I&#8217;m going to stop with the silly bee jokes for a minute, to ask you to consider helping HMSB&#8217;s special guests.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.artsandservices.org\/\">Arts and Services for the Disabled<\/a>, of Long Beach, will be at the show this Saturday, displaying their work and collecting donations.\u00a0\u00a0 Not only do they create some gorgeous art&#8211;they also offer life-long learning in the arts, and career opportunities, for people with disabilities.<\/p>\n<p>And in March, their main office was burglarized twice, resulting in the loss of their computers, cameras and a flat-screen television.\u00a0 According to their website, their loss totals around $12,000, counting the revenue from classes they had to cancel as a result, along with the stolen equipment.<\/p>\n<p>So, they&#8217;re determined to push forward (and a big hug to them, they&#8217;ve been supporting artists since 1982!).\u00a0 They&#8217;d like to ask the community for support.\u00a0 Please consider helping if you can?\u00a0 (You can also get a look at their work on their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/39123789875\/\">Facebook page<\/a>.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/paints.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7402\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/paints.jpg\" alt=\"paints\" width=\"700\" height=\"535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/paints.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/paints-300x229.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/paints-392x300.jpg 392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Barb e-mails that, while they can always use cash donations, they do have a &#8220;wish list&#8221;, which is as follows:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Art supplies<\/p>\n<p>1.\u00a0 Paint brushes<br \/>\n2.\u00a0 Watercolor paper<br \/>\n3.\u00a0 Acrylic paint<br \/>\n4.\u00a0 Watercolor paint<br \/>\n5.\u00a0 Low-fire clay<br \/>\n6.\u00a0 Disposable latex gloves<br \/>\n7.\u00a0 Aprons<br \/>\n8.\u00a0 Colored pencils<br \/>\n9.\u00a0 Markers<br \/>\n10.\u00a0 Paint pens\u200b<\/p>\n<p>They would also love to have iTunes gift cards, since their programs have iPads.\u00a0 If you can deliver any of the above to them at HMSB&#8217;s Spring Boutique, it would be much appreciated.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6343\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg\" alt=\"barb lieberman\" width=\"580\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman.jpg 580w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/barb-lieberman-248x300.jpg 248w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" \/><\/a>As if HMSB&#8217;s Spring Boutique weren&#8217;t a &#8220;honey&#8221; of a show already, they&#8217;re also hosting an Author Alley.\u00a0 Rumor has it that <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ourseedsofinspiration.com\/\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a> proprietor and author Barb Austin Lieberman just MAY &#8220;sweeten&#8221; things by offering a peek at her third book, <em>Message on the Wind<\/em>, scheduled for a launch party at CRAFTED the following day!<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m &#8220;stung&#8221; that I can&#8217;t &#8220;bee&#8221; there&#8211;OK, OK, I&#8217;ll stick to my day job.<\/p>\n<p><em>HMSB&#8217;s Second Annual Spring Boutique is a free-admission event, happening Saturday, April 25th, 11 am to 6 pm at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>, 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, in San Pedro.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7344\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7344\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7344\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png\" alt=\"(Photograph courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600.png 1000w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600-300x180.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Web1-1000x600-500x300.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7344\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photograph courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Ever eaten your way through an event&#8211;while shopping for handcrafted items?\u00a0 That opportunity&#8217;s going to be available next weekend, too.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7348\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Spr15-Card-w-Bleed-Front1-1000x431-e1428733269235.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7348\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7348\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Spr15-Card-w-Bleed-Front1-1000x431-e1428733269235.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"302\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7348\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal LA, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\">Artisanal LA<\/a>, created by Shawna Dawson in autumn of 2010, is a mecca for &#8220;foodies&#8221;.\u00a0 Homemade bread, family-recipe preserves and sauces, macarons and hand-dipped chocolates have been just a few of the yummy samples available to attendees in the past.\u00a0 The last time we went, there were almost 100 vendors there, with much more than soup to nuts, and DIY workshops and presentations throughout both days.\u00a0 If Mom loves any or all of the above, you may want to take her along, as your guest&#8211;or surprise her with some special handcrafted edibles for Mother&#8217;s Day, in a couple of weeks.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/angela5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3760\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/angela5.jpg\" alt=\"angela5\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/angela5.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/angela5-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/angela5-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>In addition to food and workshops by chefs and urban farmers, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Artisanal LA<\/a> offers handcrafted gifts.\u00a0 Total favorites from before included Angela Price&#8217;s mini-terraria, through her small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/EdenCondensed\">Eden Condensed<\/a>&#8230;<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/marie1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3711\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/marie1.jpg\" alt=\"marie1\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/marie1.jpg 527w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/marie1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/a>.. and these great mugs by Marie and Robert of<a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LusteredWalnut\"> Lustered Walnut<\/a>.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/robert1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3712\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/robert1.jpg\" alt=\"robert1\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/robert1.jpg 527w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/robert1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/a><em>Artisanal LA&#8217;s Spring Show happens Saturday and Sunday, April 25th and 26th, from 11 am to 6 pm at The Reef, 1933 South Broadway Street near Washington Boulevard, in Los Angeles.\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/artisanal-la-spring-show-april-25-26-11a-6p-tickets-15805054343\">Tickets<\/a> are available at the door or online.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>And&#8230;something new has been added, for Spring 2015.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7342\" style=\"width: 486px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Jackalope-Art-Fair-Poster-by-Jonny-Blackburn-e1428732800357.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7342\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7342\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Jackalope-Art-Fair-Poster-by-Jonny-Blackburn-e1428732800357.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic by Jonny Blackburn, and used with permission.)\" width=\"476\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7342\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic by Jonny Blackburn, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>This brand-new Art and Craft Fair, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/about\/\">Jackalope<\/a>, makes its debut that same weekend (of course!\u00a0 I wish I had a time machine, so I could attend all of these!).<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/alexandrias-accessory-alchemy.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6341\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/alexandrias-accessory-alchemy.jpg\" alt=\"alexandrias accessory alchemy\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/alexandrias-accessory-alchemy.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/alexandrias-accessory-alchemy-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/alexandrias-accessory-alchemy-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1488165881455014\/\">Facebook page<\/a>, Jackalope&#8217;s vendors will include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/AccessoryAlchemy\">Accessory Alchemy <\/a>(which we love; had the opportunity to meet Alexandria at HMSB last year, and just managed to snag the last of her Christmas-tree steampunk necklaces!). <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7392\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg\" alt=\"rondo mieczkowski1\" width=\"569\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg 569w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/rondo-mieczkowski1-243x300.jpg 243w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 569px) 100vw, 569px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Visitors to this new event will also get to experience the delectable <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Coldwater-Canyon-Provisions\/175471382534348\">Coldwater Canyon Provisions<\/a> (think yummy preserves and pickles from Rondo Mieczkowski&#8217;s family recipes!).\u00a0 There&#8217;s also a vendor with whom I&#8217;m unfamiliar, at this point, but which sounds intriguing: <a href=\"http:\/\/angrymushroomemporium.com\/\">The Angry Mushroom Emporium <\/a>offers handcrafted guitars!<\/p>\n<p>And in addition to offering juried selections from more than 200 vendors, they&#8217;ll also have workshops.\u00a0 SoCal Etsy Guild hosts a &#8220;Kids&#8217; Crafting Corner&#8221;, both days of Jackalope, and the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.jackalopeartfair.com\/pasadenaworkshops\">workshops<\/a> for us &#8220;big kids&#8221; include how-to&#8217;s on terrarium building, making beaded bracelets, making lip gloss, and blending essential oils.<\/p>\n<p><em>Jackalope Art and Craft Fair is happening next Saturday and Sunday, April 25th and 26th from 11 am to 6 pm, in Central Park, at 275 South Raymond Avenue near Del Mar, in Old Pasadena.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7335\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7072\">Adding &#8220;Glitter&#8221; to Saturday<\/a>  February 28, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_7074\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/02\/glitterfest-e1425102939591.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7074\" class=\"size-full wp-image-7074\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/02\/glitterfest-e1425102939591.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"487\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7074\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>According to forecasts, we&#8217;re in for a gray, rainy Southern California weekend.<\/p>\n<p>But at least one area of Anaheim today will be &#8220;aglitter&#8221;&#8211;thanks to artistic sisters Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re the founders of &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/http:\/\/www.glitterfest.com\/\">Glitterfest<\/a>&#8220;: a handmade-only mixed-media arts and crafts festival, with their Spring show starting at ten this morning at Anaheim&#8217;s Business Expo Center.<\/p>\n<p>Sheryl and Dianne emailed that they&#8217;ll have more than fifty artists on hand, showcasing their creations,.\u00a0 And they say there&#8217;s going to be an incredible range of treasures on hand: everything from vintage jewelry to home decor, knitted items and paper creations&#8211;plus supplies for makers!<\/p>\n<p>Want a preview of the show? \u00a0 Glitterfest&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Glitterfest\/342176706805\">Facebook page<\/a> includes pictures of some stunning copper bracelets (I love the dragonfly!) by Despina Buoncristiani; an enchanting silvery Easter-egg creation from Robin Dudley-Howes; and the whimsical, angel-inspired paintings of Lisa Loria.\u00a0 Can we say &#8220;gorgeous&#8221; here?<\/p>\n<p>Now, to be sure you&#8217;re not disappointed&#8211;this is a one-day event.\u00a0 So you will need to brave the rain if you&#8217;d like to see Glitterfest&#8217;s Spring show&#8211;they wrap up this afternoon.<\/p>\n<p>But it sounds like a great reason to get out the umbrella&#8211;travel safely, and have a good time.<\/p>\n<p>(Can&#8217;t make it for whatever reason, but need a special\u00a0 project to keep young artists happy on a rainy weekend?\u00a0 You might like to check out Sheryl and Dianne&#8217;s &#8220;Glitterfest Gazette&#8221; blog&#8211;their <a href=\"http:\/\/glitterfestgazette.blogspot.com\/2015\/02\/10-st-patricks-day-crafts-for-kids.html\">St. Patrick&#8217;s Day crafts for kids<\/a> are really cute!)<\/p>\n<p><em>Glitterfest Spring Show runs from 10:00 this morning, Saturday, February 28th, to 4:00 this afternoon, at Anaheim&#8217;s Business Expo Center, 1960 South Anaheim Way at Stanford Court.\u00a0 Admission is $7.00 per person.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=7072\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=6835\">Looking Forward to &#8220;Artisanal&#8221;<\/a>  January 31, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_6836\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Artisanal_LA_spring_show.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6836\" class=\"size-full wp-image-6836\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Artisanal_LA_spring_show.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphics courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Artisanal_LA_spring_show.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Artisanal_LA_spring_show-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Artisanal_LA_spring_show-400x300.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6836\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphics courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s one sure sign that spring&#8217;s coming.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\">Artisanal L.A. <\/a>is looking for some talented makers for their upcoming Spring Show.\u00a0 They just began accepting applications on January 20th, with an early-application deadline of February 18th.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_6844\" style=\"width: 919px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/unnamed.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6844\" class=\"size-full wp-image-6844\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/unnamed.png\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)\" width=\"909\" height=\"247\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/unnamed.png 909w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/unnamed-300x81.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/unnamed-500x135.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 909px) 100vw, 909px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6844\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Now, if you haven&#8217;t attended <a href=\"http:\/\/en-gb.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Artisanal L.A.<\/a> before, this show is, quite literally, yummy.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/HPIM7064-Copy-e1422686669675.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6858\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/HPIM7064-Copy-e1422686669675.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7064 - Copy\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a>It&#8217;s all about the local food scene in Los Angeles&#8211;with workshops, DIY classes, author appearances and approximately a hundred hand-selected vendors offering fresh-baked bread, sauces, meats, hand-dipped chocolates, handcrafted coffees, pastries and lots more tempting things.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/HPIM7080-Copy-e1422687073663.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6861\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/HPIM7080-Copy-e1422687073663.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7080 - Copy\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" \/><\/a>Artisanal L.A. is a curated event; they&#8217;re looking for both irresistible handcrafted delectables and crafts that appeal to urban farmers, kitchen enthusiasts, chefs and anyone else who loves raising and preparing something delicious.\u00a0 All products must be made in the U.S.A.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6865\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements.jpg\" alt=\"implements\" width=\"2848\" height=\"2144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements.jpg 2848w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements-1024x770.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/implements-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2848px) 100vw, 2848px\" \/><\/a><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6866\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/hive.jpg\" alt=\"hive\" width=\"2848\" height=\"2144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/hive.jpg 2848w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/hive-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/hive-1024x770.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/hive-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2848px) 100vw, 2848px\" \/>In addition, Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\">website<\/a> says that, while they are not a jewelry or fashion showcase, they occasionally accept vendors in these areas if the items offered would be relevant to their audience.\u00a0 (Tote bags suitable for a farmers&#8217; market are one example they give.)<\/p>\n<p>Like to know more about showcasing your luscious independently handcrafted treats&#8211;or your imaginative housewares, kitchenware or gardening goods?\u00a0 Here&#8217;s a <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/vendors\/\">link<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/sow-swell-farm-e1422688442578.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6873\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/sow-swell-farm-e1422688442578.jpg\" alt=\"sow swell farm\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" \/><\/a>Not a &#8220;maker&#8221; in this area, but hoping to attend?\u00a0 Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s tickets go on sale in February&#8211;and in addition to their shopping, learning and tasting possibilities (we can recommend the hand-dipped chocolates, but that&#8217;s up to you!), they&#8217;re planning some surprises, with an expanded urban farming and gardening section!<\/p>\n<p><em>Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s Spring Show happens Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, at <a href=\"http:\/\/magicboxla.com\/\">Magic Box <\/a>at THE REEF, in downtown Los Angeles.\u00a0 Tickets go on sale in February.\u00a0\u00a0 For consideration as a vendor, here is the <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/a.LA-Spring-Show-2015-Application-and-Agreement.pdf\">application<\/a> link.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=6835\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=6773\">A &#8220;Seaside&#8221; Special Event<\/a>  January 17, 2015<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6779\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg\" alt=\"bowls3a\" width=\"700\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a-300x248.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bowls3a-362x300.jpg 362w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>What are you doing this afternoon&#8211;or next Saturday?<\/p>\n<p>How would you like to paint and be creative, in an art studio&#8211;for a good cause, and for free?<\/p>\n<p>Artists Gayle Fleury and Regina Fernandez, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.seasidestudiossanpedro.com\/\">Seaside Studios San Pedro<\/a>, would like to have you come down and paint a bowl, at no charge.\u00a0 Their studio&#8217;s open from 10 this morning till 3 this afternoon, and next Saturday.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll fire your finished masterpiece in their kiln, and use it in another two weeks for an exciting new community project&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_6780\" style=\"width: 535px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/flyer-e1421467444743.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6780\" class=\"size-full wp-image-6780\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/flyer-e1421467444743.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Regina Fernandez, and used with permission.)\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6780\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Regina Fernandez, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>&#8230;to which you&#8217;re invited.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, as you visit with Gayle and Regina, you might just like to see what they&#8217;ve been making.\u00a0 Gayle is the proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Aussie-Girl-Designs\/105513316150336\">Aussie Girl Designs<\/a>, and she designs some fantastic accessories.\u00a0 She was wearing a very fun handcrafted kangaroo necklace the last time we stopped by.\u00a0 (Her dragonfly one is pretty breathtaking, too.)\u00a0 Regina, who&#8217;s the owner of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PortTownPottery\">Port Town Pottery<\/a>, comes up with ceramic creations that range from whimsical and warm to out-and-out beautiful.\u00a0 (Her Christmas angels and trees are a favorite, but be sure to ask to see her &#8220;lace&#8221; designs, they are gorgeous!)<\/p>\n<p>And if you&#8217;d like to learn &#8220;how to&#8221; with these talented ladies, Gayle teaches a jewelry-making class every Saturday morning at 10.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Regina teaches ceramics on Monday afternoons at 4, and you can call her at (562) 673-7660 if you&#8217;d like more information on either class.<\/p>\n<p>Have a great and creative weekend!\u00a0 Oh, one more thing.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro-December-8-2014-093-Copy.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-6806\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro-December-8-2014-093-Copy.jpg\" alt=\"Seaside Studios San Pedro December 8 2014 093 - Copy\" width=\"466\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro-December-8-2014-093-Copy.jpg 466w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro-December-8-2014-093-Copy-199x300.jpg 199w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px\" \/><\/a>When you go to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Seaside-Studios-San-Pedro\/653664764671506\">Seaside Studios San Pedro<\/a>, beware of the wild &#8220;dingo&#8221;.\u00a0 She&#8217;s a total sweetheart and may love you half to death.<\/p>\n<p><em>Seaside Studios San Pedro, located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, are located between Beacon and O\u2019Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains.\u00a0\u00a0 Regina and Gayle would welcome you to come and glaze (paint) a bowl, for free, in support of Empty Bowls San Pedro, both this Saturday, January 17th, from 10 am to 3 pm, and next, January 24th, which will be the final Saturday for painting before the Empty Bowls Soup Supper on Saturday, February 7th.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=6773\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5553\">Decisions!  Decisions!<\/a>  November 21, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5950\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Pomona-Harvest-Festival1-e1416428927369.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5950\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5950\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Pomona-Harvest-Festival1-e1416428927369.jpg\" alt=\"(Pomona Harvest Festival.  Photo courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"468\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5950\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Pomona Harvest Festival. Photo courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Remember how, when you were a kid, Grandma\u00a0 brought out a huge plate of Christmas cookies and candy?\u00a0 And Mom allowed you to take one or two, at most?<\/p>\n<p>Funny how that comes to mind here.<\/p>\n<p>Here is a listing of some of the upcoming indie crafts markets you might like to consider, for your Christmas shopping.\u00a0 I&#8217;m posting them early, so you have time to make up your mind&#8211;because it seems like Saturday, December 6th, is a popular day!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5958\" style=\"width: 670px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/HMSB.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5958\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5958\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/HMSB.png\" alt=\"(Image courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)\" width=\"660\" height=\"341\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/HMSB.png 660w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/HMSB-300x155.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/HMSB-500x258.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 660px) 100vw, 660px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5958\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>On Saturday, December 6, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a> will be having their annual &#8220;Holiday Boutique&#8221; at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles.\u00a0 (And Happy Anniversary to them!\u00a0 Can you believe their fantastic, indie-crafter-supporting organization is now a year old?)<\/p>\n<p>Their handmade-only show will include more cool stuff than we have room to describe here, but we&#8217;re curious to see Gale Rugnetta&#8217;s &#8220;Viking Knit&#8221; jewelry through her small business, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/create-hmsb-blog\/category\/angel-art-dreams\">Angel Art Dreams<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 Not to mention Susan Springer Anderson&#8217;s hand-stitched leather notebooks, which she sells as <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/TheDelicateUtility\">The Delicate Utility<\/a>.\u00a0 And of course, we&#8217;ll be saying &#8220;hi&#8221; to a lot of previous favorites&#8211;and &#8220;congratulations&#8221; to Barb Lieberman, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ourseedsofinspiration.com\/\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a>, who, in addition to her other talents, is a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/805300499531679\/\">just-published author<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>One other note before we leave this particular show&#8211;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a> gives back by supporting a different charity, every time they do a show.\u00a0 This time, they&#8217;ll be raffling off gift baskets and donating the proceeds to Fort MacArthur Cub Scout Troop.<\/p>\n<p><em>Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s Second Annual Holiday Boutique takes place Saturday, December 6, from 11 am to 6 pm at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street at Miner, in San Pedro.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5962\" style=\"width: 470px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-3.32.12-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5962\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5962\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-3.32.12-PM.png\" alt=\"(Image courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)\" width=\"460\" height=\"308\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-3.32.12-PM.png 460w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-3.32.12-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-3.32.12-PM-448x300.png 448w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5962\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Image courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>That same day,<a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\"> Artisanal L.A. <\/a>hosts their &#8220;Holiday City Market&#8221;, throughout Old Pasadena.<\/p>\n<p>This one&#8217;s BIG&#8211;they list their venues as &#8220;Holly Street and beyond&#8221;, and their promotional material advertises that they&#8217;ll have 150 makers there!\u00a0 While a specific address isn&#8217;t given, they say visitors can browse independent businesses throughout Holly Street, Mercantile Avenue and Mills Place. \u00a0 I&#8217;ll update this as more information becomes available, but this first Old Pasadena &#8220;Artisanal&#8221; promises to have something for every &#8220;foodie&#8221; on your list, as well as unique wearables, home items and jewelry.\u00a0 Artisan coffees, preserves, fresh-baked bread and some to-die-for chocolates all made our &#8220;favorite&#8221; list, at the most recent <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Artisanal L.A. <\/a>we attended.<\/p>\n<p><em>Artisanal L.A. hosts their &#8220;Holiday City Market&#8221; in a first-time partnership with the City of Pasadena and Old Pasadena Management District on Saturday, December 6 from 11 am to 10 pm, throughout Holly Street, Legge Alley and the surrounding areas.\u00a0 Look for the white tents; they say they&#8217;ll be located in six separate areas of Old Town Pasadena.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5968\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Pomona-Harvest-Festival2-e1416552912599.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5968\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5968\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Pomona-Harvest-Festival2-e1416552912599.jpg\" alt=\"(Photo courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5968\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Photo courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>And, just to give you even MORE choices, the <a href=\"http:\/\/harvestfestival.com\/\">Harvest Festival\u00ae Original Art and Craft Fair <\/a>is happening the same weekend, at Pomona Fairplex!\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;re actually a three-day event, with more than three hundred artisans showcasing their work.\u00a0 Blown glass, wood carvings, hand-woven wearables and children&#8217;s clothing will be just a few of the treasures on hand.\u00a0 And this is going to be a party: crafting demonstrations, entertainment, strolling performers and contests will all be a part of their festivities.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll also have an interactive &#8220;Kidzone&#8221;, where the youngest festival goers can create their own Christmas ornaments and more, in a free &#8220;make and take&#8221; area.<\/p>\n<p>There is an admission fee for this one, and they&#8217;ll give you a discount if you bring canned goods to donate to the Foothill Family Shelter.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll find more information <a href=\"http:\/\/harvestfestival.com\/pomona\/\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>One other footnote: does your family need a new member?\u00a0 This may be your chance to give a loving cat or dog a forever home; no-kill animal shelter <a href=\"http:\/\/pricelesspetrescue.org\/\">Priceless Pets<\/a> will be on-hand for pet adoptions.<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5970\" style=\"width: 307px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Harvest-Festival-Logo.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5970\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5970\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Harvest-Festival-Logo.png\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)\" width=\"297\" height=\"127\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5970\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of the Harvest Festival, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><em>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/HarvestFestivals\">Harvest Festival\u00ae<\/a> Original Art and Craft Show, currently in its 42nd year, makes a Christmastime stop at Pomona Fairplex, Building #4, 1101 West McKinley Avenue, Friday, December 5th through Sunday, December 7th.\u00a0 Hours are 9 am to 6 pm Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm Sunday.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>But, the special events in San Francisco promise to keep you traveling, as well.\u00a0 December 6 also brings a touch of Sweden to the Bay Area, with the <a href=\"http:\/\/sanfrancisco.swea.org\/\">Swedish Women&#8217;s Educational Association&#8217;s annual Christmas Fair!<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This one really sounds like a don&#8217;t-miss event, with all-Swedish shopping (handmade textiles, ceramics and glassware!).\u00a0 They&#8217;ll tempt you with traditional Swedish food (those sandwiches on their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SweaSanFranciscoChristmasFair\">Facebook page<\/a> look <em>beyond<\/em> delicious!) and entertain everyone with their special &#8220;Lucia processions&#8221;, four times daily, featuring local school-age &#8220;Lucia maidens&#8221; and tomten (gnomes).\u00a0 Their flyer warns you, get a seat early-this is a popular Christmastime treat!<\/p>\n<p><em>SWEA&#8217;s Christmas Fair happens Saturday, December 6th, from 9 am to 4 pm at St. Mary&#8217;s Cathedral, 1111 Gough Street, north of Ellis, in San Francisco.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>AND&#8230;if you happen to be in Northern California, don&#8217;t forget what opens this Saturday&#8230;<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5729\" style=\"width: 378px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/dickensfairtoo.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5729\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5729\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/dickensfairtoo.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Great Dickens Christmas Fair.)\" width=\"368\" height=\"250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/dickensfairtoo.jpg 368w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/dickensfairtoo-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 368px) 100vw, 368px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5729\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Great Dickens Christmas Fair.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>(Can&#8217;t wait to tell you more firsthand, but every <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DickensFair\">Great Dickens Christmas Fair<\/a> we&#8217;ve ever attended has had some unique and imaginative crafts.\u00a0 Not to mention all the Dickensian food, entertainment and dancing.)<\/p>\n<p><em>The 36th annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dickensfair.com\/\">Great Dickens Christmas Fair<\/a> opens tomorrow morning, Saturday, November 22nd, at 10 am, at the Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue near Calgary Street, in Daly City.\u00a0 The Dickens Fair runs for five weekends, through Sunday, December 21, from 10 am to 7 pm.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Enjoy&#8211;and keep the weekend of December 13th open if you can.\u00a0 That&#8217;s when San Francisco welcomes the Christmas version of <a href=\"http:\/\/sanfranciscobazaar.org\/\">Bazaar Bizarre<\/a>,\u00a0 <em>and<\/em> the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">Renegade Craft Fair <\/a>comes to Los Angeles!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5553\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5514\">Patchwork Starts This Weekend!<\/a>  October 29, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4288\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg\" alt=\"patchwork sign\" width=\"600\" height=\"569\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign-300x284.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign-316x300.jpg 316w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>You&#8217;ve seen the Christmas lights in the stores (already!).\u00a0 You probably haven&#8217;t heard your first Christmas carol yet, but that&#8217;s coming, any day.<\/p>\n<p>But, here&#8217;s an early sign of Christmas that you&#8217;ll love: fall 2014&#8217;s first <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/patchwork-show\/about\/\">Patchwork Show<\/a>\u00a0 is happening in Long Beach this Sunday! <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM0869-Copy-e1414350413134.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5535\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM0869-Copy-e1414350413134.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM0869 - Copy\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/patchworkshow\">Patchwork Show Modern Makers&#8217; Festival<\/a> dates back to 2008, when artists and entrepreneurs <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/author\/nicole\/\">Nicole Stevenson<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/roadlesstraveledstore.com\/\">Delilah Snell <\/a>opened their first Patchwork Show in Santa Ana.\u00a0 Since then, it&#8217;s grown to a biannual round of shows in both Northern and Southern California, with musical performances, artisan foods and all kinds of eclectic crafts.\u00a0 Admission to the shows is free, but be warned: leaving without buying something usually proves to be impossible.\u00a0 Artisanal s&#8217;mores, handcrafted cards, some gorgeous redwood earrings and jasmine-scented soaps have been just a few of the creations that have somehow wound up jumping into our arms, in the past. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM0550-e1414466502695.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5541\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM0550-e1414466502695.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM0550\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This first fall Patchwork Show happens at Long Beach&#8217;s Marine Stadium, Sunday, November 2, while Santa Ana can look forward to theirs for Thanksgiving Sunday, November 30, at 2nd and Sycamore.<\/p>\n<p>In Northern California?\u00a0 Nicole and Delilah haven&#8217;t forgotten you: the show comes to Jack London Square on Sunday, November 16th!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival comes to Long Beach&#8217;s Marine Stadium, at Appian Way and East Sorrento Drive, this Sunday, November 2.\u00a0 Hours are 11 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5514\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5302\">&#8220;Artisanal&#8221; For Autumn<\/a>  October 11, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h3>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/h3>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_5321\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/front-1000x460-e1413007816723.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5321\" class=\"size-full wp-image-5321\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/front-1000x460-e1413007816723.png\" alt=\"(Courtesy of Artisanal L.A.)\" width=\"700\" height=\"322\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-5321\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Courtesy of Artisanal L.A.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Fresh-baked bread, mouthwatering preserves, spicy goat cheese and velvety chocolates come as no surprise, at <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\/\">Artisanal L.A.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Book signings, cool workshops on creating specialties like fermented sodas, and talented artists, with an array of eclectic works, are all to be expected.<\/p>\n<p>But&#8211;baby pigs?\u00a0 That&#8217;s a new one.\u00a0 The same goes for the goats.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7064-Copy-e1413008898134.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5332\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7064-Copy-e1413008898134.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7064 - Copy\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>All of the above will be part of the fun when Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s Fall Show opens at The Reef, later today.\u00a0 And not only is this event a total foodie&#8217;s dream (with free samples everywhere you go), but a great place to learn how to plan or transform your garden, set a festive fall table or whip up a batch of kimchi.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7089-Copy-e1413009078600.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5334\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7089-Copy-e1413009078600.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7089 - Copy\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Those baby pigs and goats, according to Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Facebook page<\/a>, will be on hand for your &#8220;hanging out&#8221; pleasure, as you enjoy talking with your favorite farmers.\u00a0 There&#8217;s no specific word on the source of the oinking, maa-ing new additions, but they should be fun to discover.<\/p>\n<p>As should everything else at Artisanal L.A. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7080-Copy1-e1413009058703.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5333\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HPIM7080-Copy1-e1413009058703.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM7080 - Copy\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Among the artisans listed as exhibiting this year are creators of: luxury candles; butcher-block cutting boards and furniture; and unique vintage textiles and furniture.\u00a0 Book signings today and tomorrow include Aida Mollencamp&#8217;s <em><a href=\"http:\/\/www.aidamollenkamp.com\/keys-to-the-kitchen-cookbook\/\">Keys to the Kitchen<\/a>,<\/em> this afternoon at 1.\u00a0 Visiting chefs will be demonstrating how to wow your guests with special concoctions, and vendors will be offering all sorts of delectable things.\u00a0 (Last year&#8217;s favorites from this particular show included crusty bread from Los Angeles Bread Bakers and the delectable Masala Chocolates.)<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/angela2-Copy-e1413008793967.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5329\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/angela2-Copy-e1413008793967.jpg\" alt=\"angela2 - Copy\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Also, Angela Price, of <a href=\"http:\/\/edencondensed.com\/\">Eden Condensed<\/a>, will be teaching classes, at 1:00 today and tomorrow, on &#8220;Crafting a Cocktail Garden&#8221;.\u00a0 From her earlier <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3168\">interview <\/a>on this site, you&#8217;ll know that she excels in creating something fun or beautiful in very little space, so this is going to be an interesting presentation! <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5340\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg\" alt=\"rondo mieczkowski1\" width=\"569\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/rondo-mieczkowski1.jpg 569w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/rondo-mieczkowski1-243x300.jpg 243w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 569px) 100vw, 569px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>While you&#8217;re there, say &#8220;hi&#8221; to <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3380\">Rondo Mieczkowski<\/a>, proprietor of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/ColdwaterCanyon\">Coldwater Canyon Provisions<\/a>.\u00a0 But watch out&#8211;his artisan pickles and preserves are from family recipes, and they have a tendency to be seriously addictive!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/billimarie3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3267\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/billimarie3.jpg\" alt=\"billimarie3\" width=\"552\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/billimarie3.jpg 552w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/billimarie3-236x300.jpg 236w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 552px) 100vw, 552px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And someone else not to miss is gifted poet <a href=\"http:\/\/www.typewriterpoetry.com\/author\/billimarie\/\">Billimarie<\/a>. \u00a0 She will be on hand, once again, with her (pink!) typewriter, creating poems for free, on the spot.<\/p>\n<p>Come prepared to learn some cool kitchen and garden techniques, to wind up buying more tempting things than you originally planned, and, most of all, to enjoy.<\/p>\n<p><em>Artisanal L.A.&#8217;s 2014 Fall Show runs today and tomorrow, from 11 am to 6 pm, at The Reef, 1933 South Broadway near West Washington Boulevard, in Los Angeles.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5302\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5196\">An Autumn Day in the &#8220;Lane&#8221;<\/a>  September 27, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4442\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg\" alt=\"yellow daisies2\" width=\"600\" height=\"468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21-300x234.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21-384x300.jpg 384w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Kids are back in school.\u00a0 Leaves are falling.\u00a0 And, there&#8217;s one other sure sign it&#8217;s autumn: fall craft fairs!<\/p>\n<p>Today, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PenelopeLaneBoutique\">Penelope Lane Boutique<\/a> will be hosting theirs.<\/p>\n<p>Their 2014 Fall Boutique is set to feature eighty handcrafted booths.\u00a0 According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PenelopeLaneBoutique\">Facebook page<\/a>, some of the &#8220;goodies&#8221; they&#8217;ll be offering include: retro spoon rings (remember those, from the 1970s?), unique handmade wrap watches, some very cute felt dolls, handcrafted journals, clever baby T-shirts, and the list goes on!\u00a0 According to Penelope Lane&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/penelopelaneboutique.blogspot.com\/\">website<\/a>, they&#8217;re welcoming &#8220;a ton&#8221; of new vendors to this particular show.<\/p>\n<p>Now, one difference from most of the crafts events you&#8217;ll find listed on Noelophile\u00ae.\u00a0 While parking is free for the Penelope Lane Fall Boutique, they do have an admission charge: one dollar per person.\u00a0\u00a0 That&#8217;s certainly not exorbitant, but I didn&#8217;t want it to come as a surprise if you go check them out.<\/p>\n<p>Want to know about a couple of free (and favorite) crafts venues for this weekend, as well?\u00a0 There&#8217;s always something interesting going on at year-round weekend crafts marketplace <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>.\u00a0 This weekend, their listed DIY workshops are quilting, glass fusing and Japanese doll origami.<\/p>\n<p>Also, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.alittleknownshop.com\/\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, in Anaheim, features work from approximately thirty different artists and artisans&#8211;including some gorgeous new hand-dyed silk scarves that would really make a nice Christmas gift for about six people on my list&#8211;how about yours?\u00a0 They post flexible weekend hours on their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop\">Facebook page<\/a>, so you might like to check before you head over there.<\/p>\n<p>Happy Saturday, happy Autumn, and happy browsing!<\/p>\n<p><em>Penelope Lane&#8217;s Fall Boutique runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm today,, Saturday, September 27th at The Grand, 4101 Willow Street, east of Grand Avenue, in Long Beach.\u00a0 Parking is free; admission is $1.00.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5196\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5064\">Fun and Games &#8220;Pop-Up&#8221; at CRAFTED<\/a>  September 13, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><h6><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4937\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2053c\" width=\"509\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg 509w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c-218x300.jpg 218w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px\" \/><\/a>\\<\/em><\/h6>\n<h6><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/h6>\n<p>When<em> isn&#8217;t<\/em> <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a> planning something interesting and craft-related?<\/p>\n<p>Well&#8211;they&#8217;re doing it again.\u00a0 And we&#8217;re giving you some advance notice on this one, so you have time to plan for it.<\/p>\n<p>Next Saturday, September 20, year-round crafts marketplace CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles hosts an Etsy &#8220;Mom and Pop-Up Shop&#8221;, featuring the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SoCalEtsyGuild\">SoCal Etsy Guild.<\/a>\u00a0 And not only are they adding a one-day crafts festival to all the cool stuff their permanent makers create&#8211;they&#8217;re also having a Game Day!\u00a0 Giant Jenga, milk bottle ring toss and a hula hoop station will all be part of the fun, all day.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4414\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\" alt=\"creation station1\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Now&#8211;how about <em>this<\/em> weekend?\u00a0\u00a0 Well, this afternoon from 1 to 2, CRAFTED hosts a\u00a0 preview showcase from the upcoming &#8220;San Pedro Tri Arts Festival&#8221;, with some of the performing dance companies.\u00a0 Their &#8220;Creation Station&#8221; is having a &#8220;Paint Chip Earrings&#8221; workshop, today and tomorrow, and the Pat Morvan Jazz Group is playing today, from 2:30 to 6:30.\u00a0 And of course, CRAFTED always has unique handcrafted jewelry, clothing, soaps, teas and a lot more from their talented onsite artists and artisans.<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy!<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is located at 112 East 22nd Street, at Miner, in Warehouse 10.\u00a0 Their hours are Friday through Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm, and admission and parking are free.\u00a0 If you&#8217;re visiting San Pedro&#8217;s new Downtown Harbor Plaza, you might like to take the 1.5 mile free trolley from the waterfront; the end of the line is at Miner, right across the street from CRAFTED&#8217;s entrance.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=5064\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4892\">Things Are &#8220;Ducky&#8221; in San Pedro<\/a>  August 23, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4934\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1.jpg\" alt=\"shirlee with duck1\" width=\"2848\" height=\"2144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1.jpg 2848w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1-1024x770.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2848px) 100vw, 2848px\" \/><\/a><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m going crazy making ducks!&#8221; exclaimed glass artist<a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/EnchantedChic\"> Shirlee Yantz.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Shirlee, speaking from her booth at year-round crafts marketplace <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, <\/a>is far from the only one with ducks in mind this weekend.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/RubberDuck-008d.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4933\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/RubberDuck-008d.jpg\" alt=\"RubberDuck 008d\" width=\"575\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/RubberDuck-008d.jpg 575w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/RubberDuck-008d-246x300.jpg 246w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 575px) 100vw, 575px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.tallshipsfestivalla.com\/\">Tall Ships\u00ae Festival L.A. 2014<\/a> is in progress, from now through this Sunday, August 24th, in Los Angeles Harbor.\u00a0 On Thursday afternoon, a six-story, world-traveling <a href=\"http:\/\/www.florentijnhofman.nl\/dev\/project.php?id=104\">rubber duck<\/a>, courtesy of artist <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/611649772214397\/\">Florentijn Hofman<\/a>, led the Festival&#8217;s opening parade.\u00a0\u00a0 The duck is currently on display in L.A. Harbor, as the festivities continue. <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2059b.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4938\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2059b.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2059b\" width=\"700\" height=\"495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2059b.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2059b-300x212.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2059b-424x300.jpg 424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>So, local artists are rising to the occasion.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2015a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4962\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2015a.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2015a\" width=\"700\" height=\"662\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2015a.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2015a-300x283.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2015a-317x300.jpg 317w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In addition to an onsite booth at the Festival, CRAFTED has a portside hands-on craft station, featuring free or low-cost maritime-themed\u00a0 &#8220;make-and-take&#8221; workshops.\u00a0 Among the souvenir <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/craft-schedule-for-tall-ships\/\">crafts<\/a> visitors can create, today and tomorrow: yellow duck headbands, duck and dolphin lanyard keychains and &#8220;seashell air plants&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>But&#8211;the fun doesn&#8217;t stop at the harbor.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4937\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg\" alt=\"HPIM2053c\" width=\"509\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c.jpg 509w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/HPIM2053c-218x300.jpg 218w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED<\/a>&#8216;s free-admission marketplace is open, today and tomorrow, featuring nautical-themed wares from dozens of eclectic artisans, along with DIY workshops.<\/p>\n<p>When we wandered by on Friday, a fleet of folded-paper boats were ready for launch as sailboat mobiles at CRAFTED&#8217;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;.\u00a0 A cooky-cutter booth featured ships and yellow ducks (cookies<em> and<\/em> cutters) and another booth, further down, offered cute, knitted fuzzy yellow duck slippers.<!--nextpage--><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4935\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck2.jpg\" alt=\"shirlee with duck2\" width=\"700\" height=\"591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck2-300x253.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/shirlee-with-duck2-355x300.jpg 355w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Shirlee, as you can see, is sporting duck earrings she created.\u00a0\u00a0 Her wares today include pins featuring her take on the &#8220;rubber duckie&#8221;, and when we stopped by her booth, she said her duck-related merchandise was selling out.\u00a0 She also said she had supplied some wooden duck shapes\u00a0 for decoupage, at CRAFTED&#8217;s portside DIY station.\u00a0 No word on whether those may still be available today, but it&#8217;s definitely worth asking!<\/p>\n<p>And once the Tall Ships\u00ae\u00a0 Festival is a memory, CRAFTED will be looking ahead.<\/p>\n<p>You may want to mark your calendar for a week from Sunday, which is August 31.\u00a0 Shirlee teaches a fun beginning fused-glass class, the final Sunday of every month.<\/p>\n<p>She might even tell you how to make a yellow duck, if you ask nicely.<\/p>\n<p><em>Tall Ships\u00ae Festival Los Angeles 2014 gates are open from 10 am to 6 pm, today and tomorrow at Los Angeles Harbor, and day sails begin at 9 each morning.\u00a0 The entrance and ticket booth are located near San Pedro&#8217;s Maritime Museum, at 6th Street and Nagoya Way.\u00a0 Meanwhile, CRAFTED, at 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10 in San Pedro, offers free admission and is open today and tomorrow from 11 am to 6 pm.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4892\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4843\">Cool Stuff This Weekend<\/a>  August 16, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/danielle-and-eva-in-shop1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2553\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/danielle-and-eva-in-shop1.jpg\" alt=\"danielle and eva in shop1\" width=\"700\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/danielle-and-eva-in-shop1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/danielle-and-eva-in-shop1-300x259.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/danielle-and-eva-in-shop1-346x300.jpg 346w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Really?\u00a0 We&#8217;re halfway through August&#8211;<em>already?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Summer may be winding down, but there are still plenty of interesting, arts-oriented summertime events going on.<\/p>\n<p>Tonight, for example, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.alittleknownshop.com\/\">A Little Known Shop<\/a> hosts their monthly &#8220;Artist Walk and Food Truck Night&#8221; from 6:00 to 9:00 at Community.\u00a0 Artist <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artbyemi.com\/\">Emily Klinger <\/a>will be on hand, inside the shop, with her vibrant, intricately-patterned prints.\u00a0 Much of her work is inspired by the ocean, and the cultures of Southern Calfornia, though cat lovers will especially love one painting in her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artbyemi.com\/painting.html\">portfolio<\/a> (no, I&#8217;m not telling&#8211;you&#8217;ll just have to take a look to find me-out).<\/p>\n<p>While there&#8217;s no word (as yet) on the other exhibiting artists, we can tell you that A Little Known Shop always has something new in their selection of handmade-only items.\u00a0 Their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop\">Facebook page<\/a> mentions that they just received a bunch of new creations from independent artisans.<\/p>\n<p>Not familiar with &#8220;Community&#8221;?\u00a0 It&#8217;s a hidden treasure: a plaza of small, independently-operated art-oriented shops hidden behind double doors at 423 South Brookhurst Street, south of West Broadway, in Anaheim.<!--nextpage--><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CALB-sign1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3208\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CALB-sign1.jpg\" alt=\"CALB sign1\" width=\"700\" height=\"301\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CALB-sign1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CALB-sign1-300x129.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CALB-sign1-500x215.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Going to the downtown Long Beach area this weekend?\u00a0 You might like to drop into the <a href=\"http:\/\/calbarts.org\/\">Cultural Alliance of Long Beach<\/a>.\u00a0 Their featured artist for August is <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artbybiddle.com\/gallery\/\">Robert Biddle<\/a>, whose patterned abstracts are currently on display in an exhibit entitled, &#8221; African American Stories by Robert Biddle&#8221;.\u00a0 On exhibit, along with his work, are wood carvings by Prince Augustine Osawemwenzee Ogiemwanye.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Cultural-Alliance-of-Long-Beach\/313232145400616\">Cultural Alliance of Long Beac<\/a>h, in case you haven&#8217;t yet had a chance to visit, is a nonprofit whose mission is to support working artists of all ages, in all disciplines, and connect them with the public.\u00a0 Their Bungalow Art Center, located at 729 Pine Avenue near 7th in downtown Long Beach, is open today and tomorrow from noon to 5 pm, and Wednesdays through Fridays from 4 to 9 pm.<!--nextpage--><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3047\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED 3\" width=\"700\" height=\"446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-470x300.jpg 470w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And, last but never, ever least?\u00a0 San Pedro year-round crafts marketplace <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> gets a visit from a rubber duckie this weekend!<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;ll have a ten-foot tall &#8220;baby duck&#8221; on display, as a preview of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tallshipsfestivalla.com\/\">L.A. Waterfront&#8217;s Tall Ships Festival<\/a>, happening next week, August 20th through the 24th.\u00a0 (The ten-foot tall duckie is a replica of the world&#8217;s largest rubber duck that will lead the Tall Ships Grand Parade of Sail at the start of the Festival on the 20th.)<\/p>\n<p>And once you&#8217;ve had a chance to take a picture with &#8220;baby duck&#8221;, CRAFTED invites you to explore!\u00a0 They&#8217;re having a two-hour writers&#8217; workshop at 1 this afternoon in their Booth #184, Read On Till Morning.\u00a0 There will also be an ongoing DIY class, all day in <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED<\/a>&#8216;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;, in which you can choose a fabric and craft your personal-style tote bag, or make one for back to school.\u00a0 And as you browse the marketplace and find treasures from more than 100 independent artists and artisans onsite, you can hear live acoustic music from &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.brooklyn232.com\/\">Brooklyn 232<\/a>&#8220;, who start their first set at 2 this afternoon.\u00a0 (CRAFTED, of course, is in Warehouse 10, 112 East 22nd Street near Miner, in San Pedro.)<\/p>\n<p>Crafts under the stars, African woodcarvings and a giant rubber duck&#8211;just three ways to continue the summer fun this weekend!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4843\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4765\">CRAFTED In Stitches<\/a>  August 2, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3047\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED 3\" width=\"700\" height=\"446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-3-470x300.jpg 470w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>What&#8217;re you doing this weekend?\u00a0 You may want to add <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a> to your plans.<\/p>\n<p>From now through this Sunday, the first-ever <a href=\"http:\/\/www.laquiltshow.com\/\">Los Angeles Quilt Show and Fiber Art Fest<\/a> is happening, at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0 From 11:00 this morning, they&#8217;ll be exhibiting quilts from artists at all different skill levels&#8211;and you&#8217;re encouraged to come down and vote for your favorite.\u00a0 People&#8217;s Choice Awards are presented at their closing reception, Sunday afternoon at 4!<\/p>\n<p>But between then and now, there will be some other fantastic special events.\u00a0 And this isn&#8217;t for quilters only.\u00a0\u00a0 Teachers and fiber artists of all kinds will be there, and there will be workshops and hands-on activities.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/patsy-quilting-cropped-resized1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-653\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/patsy-quilting-cropped-resized1.jpg\" alt=\"patsy quilting cropped resized\" width=\"600\" height=\"378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/patsy-quilting-cropped-resized1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/patsy-quilting-cropped-resized1-300x189.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/patsy-quilting-cropped-resized1-476x300.jpg 476w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Today at noon, modern quilter and designer <a href=\"http:\/\/www.alissahaightcarlton.com\/\">Alissa Haight Carlton<\/a> is giving a presentation at CRAFTED.\u00a0 And while you listen&#8211;you might like to be crocheting.\u00a0 That&#8217;s because, according to the L.A. Quilt Show&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.laquiltshow.com\/\">website<\/a>, they&#8217;ve chosen a high-profile site to &#8220;yarn bomb&#8221;, and they really need your creative input.\u00a0 If you can create a granny square to be a part of this, they&#8217;d love to have your help!<!--nextpage--> <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/patsys-sign-resized.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4773\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/patsys-sign-resized.jpg\" alt=\"patsys sign resized\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/patsys-sign-resized.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/patsys-sign-resized-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/patsys-sign-resized-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>And then, on Sunday, August 3, you get to work with a very gifted quilter&#8211;and help a great cause!\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=300\">CRAFTED artist Patsy Johnson<\/a> will be leading an &#8220;improv quilt workshop&#8221; that day from noon to five.\u00a0 She&#8217;d like to have you join her to make a quilt block&#8211;and later in the day, the blocks will be sewn together in a quilt which CRAFTED will sell to benefit a participating charity, at next year&#8217;s show.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4414\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\" alt=\"creation station1\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>One of my personal favorite things about CRAFTED is their weekly hands-on workshops.\u00a0\u00a0 And with all the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1475056932734472\/?ref=22\">quilting<\/a> going on, this weekend&#8217;s DIY sessions are a natural choice: embroidery.\u00a0 Both today and tomorrow, CRAFTED&#8217;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221; hosts an &#8220;embroidery basics&#8217; class with step-by-step instructions.\u00a0 The class price is listed on their website as five dollars.<\/p>\n<p>Still just can&#8217;t get enough of quilting?\u00a0 OK, there&#8217;s more.\u00a0 On Sunday, you&#8217;ll also get to meet <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thequiltengineer.com\/\">Latifah Saafir, the &#8220;Quilt Engineer&#8221;<\/a>!\u00a0 According to the Los Angeles Quilt Show&#8217;s website, the exact time she&#8217;ll be on hand is still to be arranged.\u00a0 However, there&#8217;s also a listing of &#8220;12-1pm&#8221; for her presentation.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, with all the special events, I almost took for granted what makes CRAFTED special in the first place.\u00a0 As a year-round crafts marketplace, they&#8217;ll also have: more than a hundred gifted and eclectic artists, exhibiting their work for sale; food trucks; and live music.\u00a0 (Blues singer\/songwriter Chuck Alvarez stops by this Sunday afternoon, to do the honors.)<\/p>\n<p>And at 4:00 Sunday afternoon, CRAFTED hosts the &#8220;grand finale&#8221; of this inaugural Los Angeles Quilt Show and Fiber Art Fest: the closing reception and awards.\u00a0 Can&#8217;t say that I envy the judges their job&#8211;choosing just one winner, in each category, has to be a tough decision!<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles hosts the first annual Los Angeles Quilt Show and Fiber Art Fest, currently in progress, this weekend.\u00a0 Tickets are available through <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/los-angeles-quilt-show-at-crafted-at-the-port-of-los-angeles-tickets-12133893803\">Eventbrite<\/a>, and hours are 11 am to 6 pm, Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3.\u00a0 CRAFTED is located in Warehouse Number 10, 112 E. 22nd Street, near Miner Street, in San Pedro.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4765\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4736\">A Great Weekend for Crafts<\/a>  July 26, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/renegade-sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4755\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/renegade-sign2.jpg\" alt=\"renegade sign2\" width=\"530\" height=\"700\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/p>\n<p>This weekend&#8217;s forecast: clear and sunny, with unique jewelry and intermittent scented soaps and candles.\u00a0 There&#8217;s also a 99-percent chance of leather- and woodworking, with musicians and some food trucks moving in from the coast.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s because there are TWO free indie crafts fairs coming to Southern California, this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>This summer, the <a href=\"http:\/\/renegadefair.com\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a> makes its Los Angeles stop in a new location.\u00a0 Their July Market is happening in L.A.&#8217;s new Grand Park, from 11 am to 6 pm, on both Saturday and Sunday.\u00a0\u00a0 This is always a blast, despite the heat (parasol, sun hats and sunscreen highly recommended, and don&#8217;t forget to hydrate!).<\/p>\n<p>Past favorites from this innovative show have included Jennifer Stewart-Thorn&#8217;s lacy <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/TopiaryDesigns\">Topiary Designs<\/a> jewelry.\u00a0 We also like <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3380\">Rondo Mieczkowski&#8217;<\/a>s dill pickles and award-winning Tarragon Cherries, from his <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/ColdwaterCanyon\">Coldwater Canyon Provisions<\/a> artisan foods small business.\u00a0 (He handcrafts these in small batches from family heirloom recipes.\u00a0 Who wouldn&#8217;t be tempted?) \u00a0 And <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bossgirls.org\/\">B.O.S.S. Girls Inc.<\/a> was a great find-we love their scented soap AND their mission of teaching young women to be entrepreneurs!<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_4568\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4568\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4568\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)\" width=\"500\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2-298x300.jpg 298w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4568\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Then, on Sunday, you&#8217;ll have a choice to make.\u00a0 It&#8217;s the second day of Renegade Fair, AND the date of something special from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Hard to believe, but <a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a>, while a talented group of independent artist entrepreneurs, aren&#8217;t even a year old yet!\u00a0 They started their organization in September of last year, and have already hosted: their first December Handmade Boutique, a later Holiday Boutique, and April&#8217;s First Annual Spring Show.\u00a0 Boardmember Barb Lieberman <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4552\">shared their story<\/a> in an earlier post, here on the site.<\/p>\n<p>Keeping up with their tradition of creative ambition (and yes, I <em>do<\/em> believe they can change the world!), they&#8217;re hosting their &#8220;Sizzling Summer Bazaar&#8221;, this Sunday afternoon, July 27th, from 12 to 4 pm at Ken Miller Recreation Center, in Torrance.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll recall some of the favorites from before, mentioned in <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4700\">last week&#8217;s post.<\/a>\u00a0 And, uh-oh, they&#8217;ve just added temptation to temptation.\u00a0 Their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">Facebook page<\/a> says\u00a0 M&amp;M Ice Cream&#8217;s food truck will be there, too!<\/p>\n<p><em>Renegade Craft Fair hosts its Los Angeles July Market Saturday and Sunday, July 26 and 27, 11 am to 6 pm in Los Angeles&#8217; Grand Park, 200 North Grand Avenue near West First Street.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Handmade in South Bay hosts their &#8220;Sizzling Summer Bazaar&#8221; on Sunday, July 27, noon to 4 pm at Torrance&#8217;s Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Boulevard near Madrona.\u00a0 Admission is free to both events.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4736\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4700\">&#8220;Sizzling&#8221; With Creativity<\/a>  July 19, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_4723\" style=\"width: 448px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/HMSB-Sizzling-Summer-Bazaar.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4723\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4723\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/HMSB-Sizzling-Summer-Bazaar.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)\" width=\"438\" height=\"614\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/HMSB-Sizzling-Summer-Bazaar.jpg 438w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/HMSB-Sizzling-Summer-Bazaar-214x300.jpg 214w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 438px) 100vw, 438px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4723\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Ready to do some early Christmas shopping?\u00a0 Mark your calendar for a week from Sunday.<\/p>\n<p>That afternoon,\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/handmadeinsouthbay.com\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a> want to give you an opportunity to find some unique handcrafted treasures!<\/p>\n<p>From noon to four pm on Sunday,July 27th,\u00a0 they&#8217;ll be filling Torrance&#8217;s Ken Miller Recreation Center with all kinds of cool stuff, as they host their &#8220;Sizzling Summer Bazaar&#8221;!\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have more than forty exhibiting artists onsite&#8211;and their rule is, everything on display MUST be handmade.<\/p>\n<p>So, what kinds of creations do they have in mind, to tempt you?\u00a0 Too many to list here, but some favorites from their Spring Bazaar included some extremely clever baby mobiles by Melissa of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/thedelightfulbee\">The Delightful Bee<\/a> (ask to see her cat magnets, too!), and Lainie&#8217;s glittery, honey-scented &#8220;honeycomb&#8221; soaps (from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LainiesLathers\">Lainie&#8217;s Lathers<\/a>).\u00a0 And don&#8217;t even get me started on the all the beautiful and unusual jewelry they&#8217;ll have,\u00a0 from vendors including Maybeline of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/quesera.designs\">Que Sera Designs<\/a> and Donna with her <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BeadafulDesignsByDonna\">&#8220;Beadaful Designs&#8221;<\/a>!<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_4568\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4568\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4568\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)\" width=\"500\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2.jpg 500w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/HMSB_logo2-298x300.jpg 298w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4568\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m also looking forward to seeing what Robyn and Annie, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Younique-Ornaments\/169624579909246\">Younique Ornaments<\/a>, have come up with, this time.\u00a0 Their quilted Christmas ornaments, on their Facebook page, are gorgeous!<\/p>\n<p>And if you&#8217;re stuck for a gift for someone, Barb Lieberman, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Seeds2Inspire\">Seeds of Inspiration<\/a>, can probably help.\u00a0 Ask her about the possibility of sending her apple-pie-scented star sachets to service members, in the name of a gift recipient you&#8217;d like to honor.<\/p>\n<p>All this and food trucks, too&#8211;and a raffle to benefit Team Guardian Angels, from the American Cancer Society.\u00a0\u00a0 And, fair warning&#8211;Handmade in the South Bay&#8217;s flyer\u00a0 lists <a href=\"http:\/\/www.angelsgateroasting.com\/\">Angel&#8217;s Gate Roasting Company<\/a> as one of the vendors who&#8217;ll be there.\u00a0 So, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/handmadesouthbay\">Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s<\/a> Sizzling Summer Bazaar will be: eclectic, fun, creative, &#8220;giving back&#8221; AND coffee-scented.<\/p>\n<p>See you there!\u00a0 I&#8217;ll be the one with all the packages.<\/p>\n<p><em>Handmade in South Bay&#8217;s &#8220;Sizzling Summer Bazaar&#8221; happens on Sunday afternoon, July 27th, from noon to 4 pm at Ken Miller Recreational Center, in Torrance, 3341 Torrance Boulevard, just east of Madrona.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4700\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4610\">Lavender Festival Abloom<\/a>  June 28, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Quick!\u00a0 How many ways can you use <em>lavender<\/em>?<\/p>\n<p>If you go to Ojai today, you&#8217;ll come back with some new answers to that question.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0eleventh annual <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a> starts at 10:00 this morning.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have more than 100 vendors, offering all kinds of lavender plants and products.\u00a0 According to their website, there will be artisans and crafters, aromatherapy oils, and food (prepared with lavender, of course!).<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p>According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\">website<\/a>, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Ojai-Valley-Lavender-Festival\/124609254218420\">Ojai Valley Lavender Festival<\/a> was created in 2004 with a mission: to educate the public and promote the many uses of lavender.\u00a0 So their entertainment includes both musical performances by gifted local artists throughout the day, and presentations on lavender and how to use it.\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org\/speakers-and-entertainment\/\">Scheduled speakers<\/a> will be talking about aromatherapy, sustainable farming and cooking with lavender for all of us &#8220;foodies&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>So, you&#8217;re cordially invited to come and enjoy a day of lavender, Ojai-style&#8211;and maybe even sample some lavender ice cream, lemon bars or even lavender creme brulee in one of the local restaurants!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Ojai Valley Lavender Festival runs from 10 am to 5 pm today in downtown Ojai&#8217;s Libbey Park, at East Ojai Avenue near South Signal Street.\u00a0 Admission is free.\u00a0 Please, no smoking or alcohol, or pets.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4610\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4496\">Many &#8220;Crafty&#8221; Returns<\/a>  May 31, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/birthday-cooky-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4504\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/birthday-cooky-3.jpg\" alt=\"birthday cooky 3\" width=\"600\" height=\"535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/birthday-cooky-3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/birthday-cooky-3-300x267.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/birthday-cooky-3-336x300.jpg 336w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Really?\u00a0<em> Already?\u00a0<\/em> Yes&#8211;it&#8217;s that time.<\/p>\n<p>As in, time to wish a very Happy Birthday to Danielle Ochoa.\u00a0 <em>And<\/em> to her joint venture, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, opened one year ago today with business partner Eva Lacey!<\/p>\n<p>You can bet there&#8217;s going to be a celebration.\u00a0 Not only of the shop&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?s=A+Little+Known+Shop&amp;submit=Search\">one-year anniversary <\/a>and Danielle&#8217;s birthday&#8211;BUT of their brand-new location!\u00a0 They&#8217;ve moved one door down, into Community&#8217;s Suite &#8220;N&#8221;&#8211;with a new layout to display the creations from gifted local artists!<\/p>\n<p>So, Danielle and Eva invite you to the party.\u00a0 No word on whether there will be cake, but they&#8217;re having a Grand Reopening tonight, with tamales, a raffle, and, of course, additional new creations from artists including <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/feltflanerie\">Felt Flanerie<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/QuietDoing\">Quiet Doing<\/a>!\u00a0 Stop by if you can and wish them Happy Birthday\/Anniversary.\u00a0 (Singing is optional.)<\/p>\n<p><em>A Little Known Shop, located at 423 South Brookhurst Street (south of West Broadway), in their new location of Suite &#8220;N&#8221;<strong>, <\/strong>will host their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.alittleknownshop.com\/events\/\">Grand Re-Opening Anniversary Party<\/a> this evening, May 31 from 6 pm to 10 pm.<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4496\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4482\">A Holiday Weekend of Crafts<\/a>  May 24, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2237\" alt=\"patchwork show1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>by Noella Noelophile<b>\u00ae<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n<p>(Let&#8217;s start this by saying &#8220;thank you&#8221;.\u00a0 To all our service members, and to the families of all those who have served.\u00a0 Because without them, we wouldn&#8217;t <em>have<\/em> the freedom for me to write about these special events&#8211;or for any of us to attend them.)<\/p>\n<p>Now, what&#8217;s going on, in terms of special crafts events, this Memorial Day weekend?\u00a0 A lot&#8211;including:<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0Redlands Festival of Arts, Saturday and Sunday, May 24th and 25th.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.redlandsfestivalarts.com\/\">website<\/a>, 2014 marks the second year Redlands has hosted this free event.\u00a0\u00a0 Their two-day festival will include more than 120 artists, from throughout\u00a0 California and neighboring states, as well as an eclectic <a href=\"http:\/\/www.redlandsfestivalarts.com\/performing-arts.html\">live-entertainment schedule<\/a>.\u00a0 Barbershop vocals, funk, rock and jazz and a performance of today&#8217;s dance moves, with the audience invited to participate, are just three of the scheduled performances.<\/p>\n<p><em>Redlands Festival of Arts takes place Saturday and Sunday, May 24 and 25, from 10 am to 5 pm in Smiley Park, 125 West Vine Street near South 4th Street, in Redlands.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/art-machine2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4492\" alt=\"art machine2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/art-machine2.jpg\" width=\"547\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/art-machine2.jpg 547w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/art-machine2-273x300.jpg 273w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 547px) 100vw, 547px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Fiesta Hermosa, Hermosa Beach, Saturday, Sunday <em>and<\/em> Monday, May 24th-26th.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With more than 300 exhibiting artists, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/HermosaBeachChamberofCommerce\">Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce <\/a>bills them as &#8220;the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California&#8221;!\u00a0 According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/fiestahermosa.net\/\">website<\/a>, they&#8217;re now celebrating forty-two years of shows on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.\u00a0 This weekend&#8217;s Fiesta Hermosa will include a carnival and petting zoo for the kids, as well as live music from 11 am to 6 pm each day.\u00a0 And expect to see some highly-creative work in leather, glass, ceramic, mixed media&#8230;and a lot more!<\/p>\n<p><em>Fiesta Hermosa takes place Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26, 10 am to 6 pm on the downtown Hermosa Pier at Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-sign7.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4493\" alt=\"patchwork sign7\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-sign7.jpg\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-sign7.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-sign7-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And, I admit, this is one of my favorites.\u00a0 The <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/craft-fair-locations\/long-beach-events\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival <\/a>makes a stop in Long Beach this Sunday, May 25th!\u00a0\u00a0 Now in their seventh year, they&#8217;ll host more than 100 local vendors, with some unique and beautiful creations.\u00a0 They also have live music, and this will be both pet-friendly and bike-friendly, with a bike valet and their location right at the water&#8217;s edge.\u00a0 And while you&#8217;re there, you might like to congratulate\u00a0 Patchwork founder and <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/\">&#8220;Dear Handmade Life&#8221;\u00a0<\/a>creator Nicole Stevenson on her just-published <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/shop-online\/products\/patchwork-show-magazine\/\">first DIY, craft, food and creative-business magazine<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival runs from 11 am to 5 pm, Sunday, May 25, at 5255 Paoli Way, near Bayshore and Appian Way in Long Beach.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4482\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4468\">&#8220;Bizarre&#8221;, Cool and Creative<\/a>  May 17, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_4479\" style=\"width: 486px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SF-Bazaar-Square1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4479\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4479\" alt=\"(Graphic courtesy of San Francisco Bazaar.)\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SF-Bazaar-Square1.jpg\" width=\"476\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4479\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Graphic courtesy of San Francisco Bazaar.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>Things may be a little &#8220;bizarre&#8221; in the Bay Area today.<\/p>\n<p>At least, that&#8217;s the vision of some talented &#8220;creatives&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>As the <a href=\"http:\/\/makerfaire.com\/\">Maker Faire<\/a> opens at the San Mateo Event Center, the <a href=\"http:\/\/sanfranciscobazaar.org\/\">San Francisco Bazaar&#8217;<\/a>s going to be a part of it!\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have ninety vendors, offering amazing stuff that includes Tony Fredericks&#8217; gorgeous inlaid <a href=\"http:\/\/www.aswoodasitgets.com\/\">As Wood As It Gets<\/a> creations.\u00a0 And <a href=\"http:\/\/alwaysexpectmoore.com\/\">Dawn Kathryn Moore&#8217;s<\/a> jewel-toned patchwork quilts and handmade animal masks. \u00a0 And Noah Farb and Chris Clen&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/hrvst3d.com\/\">3-D printed jewelry<\/a>!<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p>The San Francisco Bazaar is an outgrowth of Bazaar Bizarre, started in Boston in 2001.\u00a0\u00a0 According to their website, they&#8217;re one of the longest-running fairs in the Bay Area, with an emphasis on local artists.<\/p>\n<p>And can you believe, this is just a part of what&#8217;s going on at today&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/makerfaire\">Maker Faire<\/a>?\u00a0 Billed as Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth, they&#8217;re a two-day celebration of the DIY movement&#8211;showcasing new technologies and new ways to be creative!<\/p>\n<p>Come check out the lasers, robots and kinetics&#8211;and be ready to learn and share what you&#8217;ve discovered, about creating something amazing!<\/p>\n<p><em>San Francisco Bazaar is part of this weekend&#8217;s Maker Faire Bay Area, happening today and tomorrow, May 17th and 18th, at the San Mateo Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Drive, south of the 92 freeway\u00a0 Hours are Saturday, May 17th, 10 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, May 18th, 10 am to 6 pm.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/maker-faire-bay-area-2014-tickets-9098302267?aff=MFwbBuytix\">link<\/a> for ticket information.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4468\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4446\">A &#8220;Patchwork&#8221; Mother&#8217;s Day<\/a>  May 10, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2235\" alt=\"patchwork sign2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Yay, this Sunday is <em>it.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>In addition to Mother&#8217;s Day, it&#8217;s also&#8211;the start of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/patchworkshow\">Patchwork Show <\/a>season!<\/p>\n<p>Which means, if you&#8217;re up in the Bay Area, you might like to take Mom to Oakland&#8217;s Jack London Square.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll both enjoy celebrating with more than 100 very talented local artisans, at the <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/\">Patchwork Modern Handmade Festival<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Plus, you&#8217;ll get to show Mom how creative YOU are, when you craft your own Mother&#8217;s Day card for her, at a DIY workshop, courtesy of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sfetsy\">San Francisco Bay Etsy Team. \u00a0 <\/a>Or, make her a pompom flower pin, at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Handcraft-Studio-School\/206761289491334\">Handcraft Studio School&#8217;s\u00a0<\/a>workshop.\u00a0\u00a0 And there&#8217;ll be live music!<\/p>\n<p>Also, be warned&#8211;even if you&#8217;re just coming from Mother&#8217;s Day brunch, you may be severely tempted.\u00a0 Among the gorgeous handcrafted jewelry, unique clothing, soy candles and other seriously cool original items are incredible artisan foods.\u00a0\u00a0 Some of the hand-dipped s&#8217;mores, pastries and gourmet popcorn on display do have an alarming tendency to jump directly into your mouth!<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4461\" alt=\"patchwork show1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Patchwork Modern Handmade Festival is the inspiration of artists and entrepreneurs <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=78\">Nicole Stevenson<\/a>, of <a href=\"http:\/\/dearhandmadelife.com\/\">Dear Handmade Life<\/a>, and her aunt, Delilah Snell, of T<a href=\"http:\/\/roadlesstraveledstore.com\/\">he Road Less Traveled<\/a>.\u00a0 Since 2007, Nicole and Delilah have been bringing Patchwork Shows to Santa Ana, Oakland, and Long Beach, twice yearly.<\/p>\n<p>Can&#8217;t get to Oakland this weekend?\u00a0\u00a0 Well, mark your calendar; in two more weeks, the Patchwork Modern Handmade Festival <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/craft-fair-locations\/long-beach-events\/\">comes to Long Beach<\/a>&#8211;and it&#8217;s scheduled for <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/craft-fair-locations\/santa-ana-events\/\">Santa Ana on June 15th<\/a>!\u00a0\u00a0 (And if you&#8217;re in Phoenix, Arizona, it&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/craft-fair-locations\/phoenix-events\/\">headed your way in the future!<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><em>The first Patchwork Modern Handmade Festival of 2014 runs from 11 am to 5 pm, this Sunday, May 11th at Oakland&#8217;s Jack London Square,\u00a0 55 Harrison Street, near 20th Street.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4446\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4432\">An Art-Filled Sierra Madre Weekend<\/a>  May 3, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4442\" alt=\"yellow daisies2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21-300x234.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/yellow-daisies21-384x300.jpg 384w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>\n<w:WordDocument>\n<w:View>Normal<\/w:View>\n<w:Zoom>0<\/w:Zoom>\n<w:PunctuationKerning\/>\n<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas\/>\n<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false<\/w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>\n<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false<\/w:IgnoreMixedContent>\n<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false<\/w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>\n<w:Compatibility>\n<w:BreakWrappedTables\/>\n<w:SnapToGridInCell\/>\n<w:WrapTextWithPunct\/>\n<w:UseAsianBreakRules\/>\n<w:DontGrowAutofit\/>\n<\/w:Compatibility>\n<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4<\/w:BrowserLevel>\n<\/w:WordDocument>\n<\/xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>\n<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState=\"false\" LatentStyleCount=\"156\">\n<\/w:LatentStyles>\n<\/xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>\n\n\n\n<style>\n \/* Style Definitions *\/\n table.MsoNormalTable\n\t{mso-style-name:\"Table Normal\";\n\tmso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;\n\tmso-tstyle-colband-size:0;\n\tmso-style-noshow:yes;\n\tmso-style-parent:\"\";\n\tmso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;\n\tmso-para-margin:0in;\n\tmso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;\n\tmso-pagination:widow-orphan;\n\tfont-size:10.0pt;\n\tfont-family:\"Times New Roman\";\n\tmso-ansi-language:#0400;\n\tmso-fareast-language:#0400;\n\tmso-bidi-language:#0400;}\n<\/style>\n\n<![endif]--><em>by Noella Noelophile\u00ae <\/em><\/p>\n<p>What could be better than a spring art show that&#8217;s been going on for more than fifty years, with free admission, an all-original juried selection and ethnic food trucks?<\/p>\n<p>All of the above activities, in support of all of us who love to read!<\/p>\n<p>This weekend, that&#8217;s exactly what&#8217;s happening, as Friends of the Sierra Madre Library host their <a href=\"http:\/\/sierramadrelibraryfriends.org\/the-52-annual-sierra-madre-art-fair-may-3-4-2014\/\">Fifty-Second Annual Sierra Madre Art Fair<\/a>.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have approximately a hundred artists on hand in Sierra Madre&#8217;s Memorial Park, with entertainment throughout the day.<\/p>\n<p>So, what kinds of art will be on exhibit?\u00a0 Their 2014 Featured Artist is innovative jewelry designer <a href=\"http:\/\/www.beverlyjones.com\/\">Beverly Jones<\/a>, whose pieces include work crafted in fabric, leather and enamel&#8211;and who is the first jeweler to receive this distinction.<\/p>\n<p>Congratulations, Beverly&#8211;we&#8217;ll enjoy seeing what you and your ninety-plus fellow talented creatives have to offer!<\/p>\n<p><em>The 52nd Annual Sierra Madre Art Fair happens in Sierra Madre&#8217;s Memorial Park, Sierra Madre Boulevard and Hermosa Avenue, this Saturday, May 3, from 9:30 am to 6 pm, and Sunday, May 4, from 9:30 am to 5 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4432\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4405\">Follow That Bunny!<\/a>  April 20, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4414\" alt=\"creation station1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/creation-station1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Feel like seeing (or being) an Easter Bunny today?\u00a0 Hop on over to <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles\u00a0<\/a> is having an all-day Easter celebration.\u00a0 When they open at 11:00 this morning, they&#8217;re having an Easter-egg candy hunt.<\/p>\n<p>Then, at noon, you and your\u00a0 family get to be &#8220;crafty bunnies&#8221;, as CRAFTED&#8217;s Creation Station offers workshops in egg decorating and shows you how to make your own wearable bunny ears.<\/p>\n<p>Feel more like seeing&#8211;and touching&#8211;the real thing?\u00a0 You can&#8211;from 2:00 to 4:00 this afternoon, at\u00a0 CRAFTED&#8217;s petting zoo.\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have bunnies, ducklings, a baby goat and an artist&#8211;who will be doing face painting and\u00a0 creating even more cute spring animals.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4413\" alt=\"CRAFTED 6\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/CRAFTED-6-471x300.jpg 471w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Not familiar with CRAFTED?\u00a0 They&#8217;re San Pedro&#8217;s year-round crafts marketplace, open every weekend with crafts workshops, music, special events and more than ninety eclectic artists, exhibiting their work.\u00a0 Fair warning: some of them create artisan foods&#8211;and if you didn&#8217;t get enough Easter chocolate today, their hand-dipped creations will remedy the situation very quickly!<\/p>\n<p>Have a very Happy, hoppy and &#8220;crafty&#8221; Easter!<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is open today, Sunday, April 20th, from 11:00 am to 6 pm, and is located in Warehouse Number 10, 112 E. 22nd Street in San Pedro.\u00a0 Parking and admission are free.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4405\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4337\">Torrance Gets &#8220;Crafty&#8221; for Spring<\/a>  April 5, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/spring-boutique-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4347\" alt=\"spring boutique sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/spring-boutique-sign.jpg\" width=\"402\" height=\"414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/spring-boutique-sign.jpg 402w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/spring-boutique-sign-291x300.jpg 291w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 402px) 100vw, 402px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Handcrafted items only, please.&#8221;\u00a0\u00a0 <em>Where?!?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Well, this weekend, the answer is. &#8220;In Torrance.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The City of Torrance&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Torrance-Youth-Council\/290380804323380\">Youth Council <\/a>is having its 27th Annual Spring Boutique, starting at 9:00 tomorrow morning, Sunday, April 6.\u00a0 According to their entrance rules, NO mass-produced items are permitted, and anything on display must be hand-knitted, hand-sewn or otherwise improvised.<\/p>\n<p>Which means they&#8217;ll have some very cool stuff. \u00a0 According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1432201110355285\/?ref=22\">Facebook page<\/a>, items on display will include toys, ceramics, needlework and clothing&#8211;and everything you see is created by someone who put her heart and soul into her work.<\/p>\n<p>Sounds like a great place to shop for Easter, Mother&#8217;s Day, and even find some Christmas gifts at a &#8220;fun&#8221; pace, instead of a frenetic one!<\/p>\n<p><em>The City of Torrance&#8217;s 27th Annual Spring Boutique is happening Sunday, April 6, from 9 am to 4 pm, in Charles Wilson Park, 2200 Jefferson Street, southwest of Plaza Del Amo.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4337\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4304\">Signs of Spring in Torrance<\/a>  March 22, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_4321\" style=\"width: 467px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/torrance-craftsmens-guild1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4321\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4321\" alt=\"(Poster courtesy of Lisa Miwa, and used with permission.)\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/torrance-craftsmens-guild1.jpg\" width=\"457\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/torrance-craftsmens-guild1.jpg 457w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/torrance-craftsmens-guild1-228x300.jpg 228w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 457px) 100vw, 457px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-4321\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Poster courtesy of Lisa Miwa, and used with permission.)<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p><em class=\"size-full wp-image-4319\">by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Spring is here.<\/p>\n<p>Flowers are blooming red, white and blue&#8211;with logo centers.\u00a0 Orange-blossom scents waft from his-and-hers wedding sachets.\u00a0 Whimsical stenciled bird houses are making an appearance.<\/p>\n<p>In other words&#8211;it&#8217;s time for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TorranceCraftsmensGuild\">Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 15th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Talented artists will be exhibiting &#8220;everything handcrafted&#8221;, today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. , at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center.\u00a0\u00a0 Admission and parking are free, with music, food trucks, and prize drawings all a part of the festivities.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p>According to their <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/\">website<\/a>, the Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild started more than forty years ago.\u00a0\u00a0 A nonprofit, they sponsor two major crafts fairs each year, as well as providing dolls and Christmas ornaments to hospitals.\u00a0 Proceeds from their Spring and Holiday Craft Faires go towards <a href=\"http:\/\/www.torrancecraftsmensguild.org\/scholarships.html\">scholarships<\/a> for Torrance high-school seniors with an interest in arts and crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Happy Spring!\u00a0\u00a0 See you at the Faire.<\/p>\n<p><em>The Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 15th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire runs from 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday, March 22nd, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Madrona Drive, at Torrance Boulevard and Madrona.\u00a0 Admission and parking are free.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4304\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4293\">CRAFTED In Clover This Weekend<\/a>  March 15, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p style=\"text-align: left;\" align=\"center\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2157\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign too\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-456x300.jpg 456w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;&#8216;Tis celebrating they are, at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED<\/a>!&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>OK, enough with the phony Irish accent.\u00a0 My (Irish) ancestors would be cringing!<\/p>\n<p>What&#8217;s authentic, though, is the good time to be had, for St. Patrick&#8217;s Day, this weekend at San Pedro&#8217;s year-round permanent crafts marketplace.<\/p>\n<p>Tomorrow, Sunday, March 16th, authentic Irish band Dublin Public takes <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED<\/a>&#8216;s stage at 2 pm, to perform three sets of &#8220;traditional Irish drinking songs and ballads&#8221;.\u00a0 And throughout the day, at CRAFTED&#8217;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;, visitors get a chance to create a four-leaf clover pin and clover wall decorations, for St. Patrick&#8217;s Day!<\/p>\n<p>Want to learn a craft that&#8217;s not necessarily Celtic&#8211;but unique?\u00a0\u00a0 From 3:00 to 5:00 tomorrow afternoon, there will also be a <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/calendar-event\/class-chainmail-earrings-2\/\">chain mail earrings workshop<\/a>, courtesy of Eileen Karrigan, of<a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/eileens-beaded-jewelry\/http:\/\/\"> Eileen&#8217;s Beaded Jewelry<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>And you don&#8217;t even have to &#8220;look to the rainbow&#8221;&#8211;just take the 110 Freeway and exit at Harbor.<\/p>\n<p>Happy Saint Patrick&#8217;s Day!<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is open tomorrow, Sunday, March 16th, from 11:00 am to 6 pm, and is located in Warehouse Number 10, 112 E. 22nd Street in San Pedro.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4293\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4252\">Springing Into Crafts<\/a>  March 8, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4280\" alt=\"sign 3\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/sign-3-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Already?<\/em>\u00a0 <em>This<\/em> Sunday, we &#8220;spring forward&#8221;?<\/p>\n<p>Uh-huh.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday, March 9th, 2:00 a.m., Daylight Saving Time begins.\u00a0 &#8220;Spring forward, fall back,&#8221;, or, &#8220;Monday comes an hour earlier&#8221;, whichever you prefer.<\/p>\n<p>But&#8211;there&#8217;s also a plus side.\u00a0 Spring, or almost-spring, means some fantastic crafts events are coming up!<\/p>\n<p>Here are just a few you might like to keep in mind.<\/p>\n<p>This weekend?\u00a0 Year-round eclectic crafts marketplace <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>\u00a0 is one of the sponsors of LA Weekly&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.laweekly.com\/squidink\/2014\/01\/16\/the-essentials-la-weeklys-6th-annual-food-and-wine-event\">The Essentials Sixth Annual Food and Wine Event,<\/a> this Sunday, March 9th.\u00a0 So, in addition to fantastic artisan food and libations, you&#8217;ll get a chance to check out the work of a very gifted group of &#8220;artrepreneurs&#8221; in a full marketplace at the L.A. Mart!<\/p>\n<p><em>LA Weekly&#8217;s Essentials Sixth Annual Food and Wine Event runs from noon to 5 pm this Sunday, March 9th at the LA Mart, 1933 South Broadway near West Washington Boulevard, in Los Angeles.\u00a0 <\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/a-little-known-shop-pic2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4285\" alt=\"a little known shop pic2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/a-little-known-shop-pic2.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"407\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/a-little-known-shop-pic2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/a-little-known-shop-pic2-300x203.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/a-little-known-shop-pic2-442x300.jpg 442w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Then, next weekend, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.alittleknownshop.com\/\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, in Anaheim, hosts their <a href=\"http:\/\/m.facebook.com\/events\/1410499712532867\">Second Annual Cre-8-Bit Crafts Show.\u00a0 <\/a>That&#8217;s next Saturday evening, March 15th, from 6 to 9 pm.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to the handcrafted gifts on display from their talented local artists, they&#8217;ll have an &#8220;8-bit-themed art gallery&#8221; based on classic video games&#8211;and food, drinks, live art by artist Abe Lopez, a raffle and lots of fun.<\/p>\n<p><em>A Little Known Shop is located at 423 South Brookhurst Street, #M, south of Broadway, in Anaheim.\u00a0<\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/at-a-craft-fair1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4290\" alt=\"at a craft fair1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/at-a-craft-fair1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/at-a-craft-fair1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/at-a-craft-fair1-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/at-a-craft-fair1-354x300.jpg 354w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>Then, the following weekend?\u00a0 Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild has its <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/679669808763114\/\">15th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday, March 22nd.\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p>According to their Facebook page, they&#8217;re planning for this event to be their biggest one yet, with more than sixty exhibiting artists offering jewelry, ceramics, woodworking, purses&#8230;and much more.\u00a0 They&#8217;re also supporting a great cause: their onsite opportunity drawing benefits a scholarship fund for graduating seniors in the Torrance School District.<\/p>\n<p><em>Torrance Craftsmen&#8217;s Guild&#8217;s 15th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Fair runs from 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday, March 22nd, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3333 Civic Center Drive, near Madrona Avenue.\u00a0 Admission is free.<\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4287\" alt=\"patchwork show1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-show1-297x300.jpg 297w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And looking ahead to April&#8211;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.handmadeinsouthbay.com\/\">Handmade in South Bay<\/a> is currently planning its First Annual Handmade in South Bay Spring Boutique, on April 26th.\u00a0 Their plans include forty-plus talented artisans, classes onsite and gift wrapping (after all, Mother&#8217;s Day won&#8217;t be that far away!).<\/p>\n<p><em>New artists&#8217; group Handmade in South Bay hosts its first Spring Boutique on Saturday, April 26th, from 10 am to 3 pm, at the Joslyn Center in El Segundo, located at 339 Sheldon Street, at the south end of Recreation Park off Eucalyptus Street.<\/em><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4288\" alt=\"patchwork sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"569\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign-300x284.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/patchwork-sign-316x300.jpg 316w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Getting ready to settle down to some serious crafts-shopping yet?\u00a0 Well, just to tempt you further&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>The month of May brings the first <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/\">Patchwork Shows <\/a>of 2014&#8211;to both the Bay Area and Southern California.\u00a0\u00a0 I&#8217;ve attended two of these so far, and always wind up finding something special.\u00a0 My personal favorites (so far!) include <a href=\"http:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LookCoy\">Look Coy<\/a> proprietor <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=63\">Alexandria Huggett&#8217;s <\/a>vintage-inspired fascinators and the incredible work <a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2277\">Justin and Audra Wilford<\/a> are doing to help children with cancer, through their nonprofit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.givemaxlove.org\/\">Max Love Project.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Now&#8211;it&#8217;s your turn to find your favorites, for Spring 2014!<\/p>\n<p><em>The Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival takes place in Oakland on Saturday, May 11, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm at the Jack London Square Market Building, 55 Harrison Street, near 20th.\u00a0 Two weeks later, the first Southern California Patchwork Show is happening in Long Beach, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm at 5255 East Paoli Way, at the boat slip off Appian Way.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4252\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4043\">A Beehive of Creativity<\/a>  January 12, 2014<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/CHA-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4103\" alt=\"CHA sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/CHA-sign.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/CHA-sign.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/CHA-sign-300x233.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/CHA-sign-385x300.jpg 385w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I am <em>blingin<\/em>&#8216;!&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop-2a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4086\" alt=\"workshop (2a)\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop-2a.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop-2a.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop-2a-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop-2a-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This was a comment from a workshop participant, during the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CraftandHobby\">Craft and Hobby Association&#8217;s <\/a>2014 Mega Show, this Saturday, in Anaheim.\u00a0 She wasn&#8217;t the only one!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/scissors2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4087\" alt=\"scissors2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/scissors2.jpg\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/scissors2.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/scissors2-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>As designer and author <a href=\"http:\/\/psimadethis.com\/\">Erica Domesek<\/a> conducted two workshops on jewelry making with Swarovski crystals, additional areas throughout the Anaheim Convention Center this weekend also sparkled&#8211;literally and figuratively&#8211;with innovation.<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/bling-mixer1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4089\" alt=\"bling mixer1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/bling-mixer1.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/bling-mixer1.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/bling-mixer1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>(All this &#8220;bling&#8221; inspiring you?\u00a0 Check out <a href=\"http:\/\/www.create-your-style.com\">Swarovski Elements&#8217; website<\/a>&#8211;which includes free design project instructions and DIY videos with the &#8220;Professor of Crystal&#8221;!)<\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop2a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4091\" alt=\"workshop2a\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop2a.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop2a.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop2a-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/workshop2a-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>DIY and crafters&#8217; marketing workshops were scheduled throughout the day.\u00a0 Award-winning new crafts innovations inspired visitors.\u00a0 Designers showcased their best work.<\/p>\n<p>Total stand-out favorites, for me, included this:<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/pisa.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4101\" alt=\"pisa\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/pisa.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/pisa.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/pisa-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/seven-wonders-pt-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4098\" alt=\"seven wonders pt 1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/seven-wonders-pt-1.jpg\" width=\"478\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/seven-wonders-pt-1.jpg 478w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/seven-wonders-pt-1-239x300.jpg 239w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 478px) 100vw, 478px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/easter-island.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4100\" alt=\"easter island\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/easter-island.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/easter-island.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/easter-island-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>(Who would have thought of creating the &#8220;Seven Wonders of the World&#8221; in <em>yarn<\/em>?\u00a0 Some people are so gifted!)<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/felting1a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4093\" alt=\"felting1a\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/felting1a.jpg\" width=\"540\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/felting1a.jpg 540w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/felting1a-270x300.jpg 270w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>And I also loved these felting and tatting displays.\u00a0 One display, further along, actually included white sheets of felt printed with &#8220;cow&#8221; black spots&#8211;laugh-out-loud fun you may expect to see in your local fabric store, very soon!<\/p>\n<p>And there were also reminders that we are a creative <em>community.\u00a0<\/em>\u00a0 On hand were two special arts-related programs:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/operationwritehomept1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4094\" alt=\"operationwritehomept1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/operationwritehomept1.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/operationwritehomept1.jpg 450w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/operationwritehomept1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/operationwritehome.org\">Operation Write Home<\/a> has volunteers craft cards which they then donate, to be sent to service members who can use them to write a letter home.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/charity-wings-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4096\" alt=\"charity wings 1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/charity-wings-1.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/charity-wings-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/charity-wings-1-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/charity-wings-1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.charitywings.org\">Charity Wings<\/a> is a volunteer- and donation-powered nonprofit art workshop, based in San Marcos, that provides free art classes for other nonprofit organizations.<\/p>\n<p>With all this innovation, education and community, it looks like it&#8217;s going to be a very &#8220;crafty&#8221; 2014!<\/p>\n<p><em>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CraftandHobby\">Craft and Hobby Association<\/a> offers resources for retailers, crafts entrepreneurs and anyone who&#8217;s interested in spending more time increasing their creativity.\u00a0 Their 2014 Megashow in Anaheim is a trade-only event&#8211;here is the<a href=\"http:\/\/www.craftandhobby.org\/eweb\/DynamicPage.aspx?Site=cha&amp;WebKey=6c1f4956-99ca-455e-ba12-b0b8d713f236\"> link<\/a> for membership information.\u00a0 Their website includes their new online creative community, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cre8time.org\/\">cre8time.org.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=4043\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2674\">A &#8220;Renegade&#8217;s&#8221; Christmas Story<\/a>  December 11, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/sarah-5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2677\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/sarah-5.jpg\" alt=\"sarah 5\" width=\"700\" height=\"620\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/sarah-5.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/sarah-5-300x265.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/sarah-5-338x300.jpg 338w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sarah Christensen&#8217;s Christmases are filled with artists, music, travel plans, laughter&#8211;and food trucks.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s because Sarah is Director of Vendor Relations for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RenCraftFair\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a>, currently in its eleventh year of providing Christmas shoppers a way of finding unique (and fun!) handcrafted gifts.<\/p>\n<p>Sarah talked about her experiences with this <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">vibrant indie-craft event<\/a>, and shared one of her favorite Renegade Fair Christmas memories.<\/p>\n<p><em>The Renegade Craft Fair makes its Christmas visit to California as follows: this Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th, 2013, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., in Los Angeles State Historic Park; then, Saturday and Sunday, December 21 and 22, 2013, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Fort Mason in San Francisco.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2674\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3675\">&#8220;Twelve Days&#8221; Start Today<\/a>  November 29, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-long-shot1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3044\" alt=\"CRAFTED long shot1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-long-shot1.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-long-shot1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-long-shot1-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/CRAFTED-long-shot1-438x300.jpg 438w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>On the first day of Craftsmas, my CRAFTED said to me,<br \/>\n&#8220;Make some cool art to go with the tree&#8221;!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>OK,\u00a0 I&#8217;ll stick to my day job.<\/p>\n<p>But the fact remains&#8211;<a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> is starting something special this afternoon.<\/p>\n<p>Today, at 1:00 pm, is the first of their Christmastime DIY<a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/12days\/\"> &#8220;Twelve Days of Craftsmas&#8221; <\/a>workshops!\u00a0 Every weekend, from now till December 22nd, the talented resident artists will be hosting two-hour &#8220;make-and-take&#8221; workshops at CRAFTED&#8217;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;.<br \/>\n<!--nextpage--><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3205\" alt=\"CRAFTED stars1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg\" width=\"637\" height=\"456\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg 637w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1-419x300.jpg 419w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 637px) 100vw, 637px\" \/><\/a>Craft Coordinator (and lifelong artist) LIndsey Sochar starts off the series with a Puzzle Piece Reindeer workshop, this afternoon.\u00a0 This Saturday, Shirlee Yantz, of Enchanted Chic, shows everyone how to make glass snowflakes and menorahs!\u00a0 And on Sunday, December 1 (wow, <em>already<\/em>?), Deborah Selva, of The Jungle Bee, teaches a DIY on paper roses.\u00a0\u00a0 Additional workshops, the following weekends, include cotton-ball wreaths, Christmastime magnets and festive hair barrettes.<\/p>\n<p>Definitely a great&#8211;and creative&#8211;alternative to battling bargain hunters at a crowded mall!<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles is located in San Pedro at 112 East 22nd Street, in Warehouse 10.\u00a0 They&#8217;re open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with extended hours, 11 am to 8 pm, now through December 22nd.\u00a0 &#8220;Twelve Days of Craftsmas&#8221; workshops run from 1 to 3 pm at the Creation Station, located towards the back of CRAFTED.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3675\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2797\">No Big-Box Stuff Here<\/a>  November 15, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/patchwork-sign3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2842\" alt=\"patchwork sign3\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/patchwork-sign3.jpg\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/patchwork-sign3.jpg 527w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/patchwork-sign3-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>by Noella Noelophile\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Wow.\u00a0 How did <em>this<\/em> happen?<\/p>\n<p>Five minutes ago, we were in the middle of summer.\u00a0\u00a0 Now, Thanksgiving&#8217;s coming up, in less than two weeks.\u00a0 So, by the time everyone&#8217;s munching on leftover turkey sandwiches, there will be&#8211;<em>gasp!<\/em>&#8211;twenty-six days till Christmas.<\/p>\n<p>Christmas is so NOT about shopping.\u00a0 But no one denies that giving a gift to someone you love, and watching his or her face light up, has to rank in life&#8217;s top-ten experiences.<\/p>\n<p>And if you&#8217;d like to give unique, handcrafted gifts made in the USA and support independent artists, here are a list of upcoming crafts festivals and special places you might like to check out, for your Christmas 2013 shopping.\u00a0 You could have a lot of fun in the process!<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2235\" alt=\"patchwork sign2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/\"><strong>Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>California Dates\/Times:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>November 17, Long Beach, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, 5255 Paoli Way.<\/p>\n<p>November 24, Oakland, 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, Jack London Square Pavilion, 98 Broadway.<\/p>\n<p>December 1, Santa Ana. 11 am &#8211; 5 pm, 125 North Broadway.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/patchworkshow\">Patchwork Show<\/a> was created by artist\/entrepreneur\/writer\/general renaissance woman <a href=\"http:\/\/www.randomnicole.com\/home.html\">Nicole Stevenson<\/a>, with the idea of creating a vendor-friendly venue and &#8220;making cool stuff happen where you are&#8221;.\u00a0 And has she ever!\u00a0 She and her aunt\/fellow creative entrepreneur and co-founder, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Road-Less-Traveled-Store\/138336725391\">Delilah Snel<\/a>l, now run six of these shows a year&#8211;and they just added an &#8220;edible edition&#8221;, in Costa Mesa, this past October.\u00a0\u00a0 And, heads-up if you&#8217;d like to give an &#8220;experience&#8221; gift to someone this year&#8211;they also host an incredible craft entrepreneurs&#8217; conference, called &#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/craftcationconference.com\/\">Craftcation&#8221;<\/a>, every spring.\u00a0\u00a0 Craftcation 2014 is accepting registrations now!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2797\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3398\">Christmas Preparations in Clay<\/a>  November 9, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/community-pic1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3434\" alt=\"community pic1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/community-pic1.jpg\" width=\"550\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/community-pic1.jpg 550w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/community-pic1-235x300.jpg 235w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>You know how, when it&#8217;s time to put up the Christmas tree, some people break out these incredible handcrafted ornaments?\u00a0 And you think, &#8220;Wow, I could do that!\u00a0 Wish I&#8217;d gotten started early!&#8221;?<\/p>\n<p>Well&#8211;yes, you could.\u00a0 And now you can&#8211;thanks to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, in Anaheim.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/Little-Known-shop-pic-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3435\" alt=\"Little Known shop pic 1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/Little-Known-shop-pic-1.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/Little-Known-shop-pic-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/Little-Known-shop-pic-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/Little-Known-shop-pic-1-449x300.jpg 449w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a>Next Friday evening, November 15th, artist\/<a href=\"http:\/\/alittleknownshop.wordpress.com\/\">Little Known Shop<\/a> co-owner Eva Lacey will be teaching a hands-on ornament workshop, using Polymer clay, at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/themakerysocal\">The Makery<\/a>, right next door to A Little Known Shop. \u00a0 The class runs from 7 pm\u00a0 to 9 pm, and attendees can expect to take home ornaments that not only can be used on your tree&#8211;but pretty enough to be used as a decoration year-round!<\/p>\n<p><em>\u00a0A Little Known Shop is located at 423 South Brookhurst Street, south of West Broadway, in Anaheim.\u00a0 They&#8217;re open Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 am to 7 pm, and Saturdays, 11 am to 6 pm&#8211;with, of course, extended hours for special workshops like this one!\u00a0 Call them at (714) 982-8584 for more information.\u00a0 And yes, if you thought this said &#8220;Thursday, November 14th&#8221; before&#8211;you are NOT imagining things.\u00a0 Eva says the workshop has now been rescheduled to Friday evening, November 15th from 7 to 9.<br \/>\n<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3398\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3196\">&#8220;Mom and Pop-Up&#8221; at CRAFTED<\/a>  October 21, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3205\" alt=\"CRAFTED stars1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg\" width=\"637\" height=\"456\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1.jpg 637w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/CRAFTED-stars1-419x300.jpg 419w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 637px) 100vw, 637px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Halloween isn&#8217;t happening until next week&#8211;but <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> has a &#8220;treat&#8221; in store, this weekend!<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, October 26th, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SoCalEtsyGuild\">SoCal Etsy Guild<\/a> are presenting their &#8220;Mom and Pop-Up Shop&#8221;, from 11 am till 8 pm!<\/p>\n<p>So, what&#8217;s a &#8220;Mom and Pop-Up Shop&#8221;?\u00a0 According to <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED&#8217;s webpage, <\/a>this is a one-day special indoor festival.\u00a0 Dozens of additional artists are scheduled to be there that day, selling their work, in addition to the seventy-five-plus permanent ones who offer their creations for sale on a regular basis.\u00a0\u00a0 There will also be live music, make-and-take workshops for the whole family, games, giveaways and food trucks.<\/p>\n<p>Know a &#8220;crafty&#8221; friend who might like to exhibit her creations?\u00a0 They&#8217;re <a href=\"http:\/\/momandpopupshop.eventbrite.com\/\">accepting vendor applications<\/a> until this Thursday!<\/p>\n<p><em>SoCal Etsy Guild&#8217;s &#8220;Mom and Pop-Up Shop&#8221; takes place at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 110 and 112 East 22nd Street in San Pedro, Saturday, October 26th, from 11 am to 8 pm.\u00a0 Admission is free to the general public.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3196\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3223\">An &#8220;Artisanal&#8221; Weekend<\/a>  October 10, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_3227\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/BeeHive1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3227\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3227\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/BeeHive1.jpg\" alt=\"Image courtesy of Artisanal LA and used with permission.\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/BeeHive1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/BeeHive1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/BeeHive1-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-3227\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image courtesy of Artisanal LA and used with permission.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<p>When was the last time you handcrafted a wooden spoon?<\/p>\n<p>Or, for that matter, made a fizzy tea as a healthier substitute for soda&#8230;whipped up your own goat cheese&#8230;or learned the ins and outs of beekeeping?<\/p>\n<p>This weekend, you&#8217;ll get all those opportunities&#8211;and more&#8211;as <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArtisanalLA\">Artisanal LA <\/a>returns to downtown Los Angeles for their Fall 2013 show!<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;We have&#8230;nearly 40 workshops, demos, panels and book signings,&#8221; says Artisanal L.A. founder Shawna Dawson.\u00a0 &#8220;We now have an entire floor (of the L.A. Mart) dedicated to education and workshops.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>These workshops, though, are just one aspect of the event.\u00a0 \u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/artisanalla.com\">Artisanal LA <\/a>is a seasonal, weekend-long showcase of the best artisanal food vendors from all over the country.\u00a0 Rainbow-colored macarons from Hollywood, nut butters from Brooklyn, and meats from San Francisco are just three of the specialties available.\u00a0 And as you stroll, taste and learn, you can also find some very cool handcrafted gifts.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3223\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3129\">Costa MMMMMesa &#8220;Patchwork&#8221;<\/a>  September 27, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/patchwork-edible1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3141\" alt=\"patchwork edible1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/patchwork-edible1.jpg\" width=\"557\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/patchwork-edible1.jpg 557w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/patchwork-edible1-238x300.jpg 238w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 557px) 100vw, 557px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>How can anyone NOT love a festival that includes a &#8220;Chocolate Chip Cookie School&#8221;?<\/p>\n<p>To say nothing of hands-on workshops where you can learn to make fall pickles, and demonstrations that include &#8220;Historic California Recipes&#8221;, &#8220;Simple and Delicious Goat Cheese&#8221;, a &#8220;Tamale Tour of South America&#8221;, and even a session on how to make honey wine&#8211;better known as &#8220;mead&#8221; to connoisseurs!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s all set to happen in Costa Mesa, the first weekend in October, as the <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/\">Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival<\/a> serves up its &#8220;Edible Edition&#8221;!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=3129\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2634\">A Sparkling &#8220;Renegade&#8221; Weekend<\/a>  July 20, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/sarah-christensen.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2641\" alt=\"sarah christensen\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/sarah-christensen.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"496\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/sarah-christensen.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/sarah-christensen-300x212.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/sarah-christensen-423x300.jpg 423w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles State Historic Park became a creative kaleidoscope today.<\/p>\n<p>Artists offered unique handcrafted jewelry, handpainted yarn, carved nightlights, and a host of other innovative ideas they&#8217;ve brought to life.\u00a0 Workshops went on all day, allowing visitors to be creative in their own right. \u00a0 A bevy of food trucks offered everything from Indian food to gelato.<\/p>\n<p>And the best part is, tomorrow&#8217;s Day Two of L.A.&#8217;s summer <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RenCraftFair\">Renegade Craft Fair.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sarah Christensen, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/losangeles\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a> Director of Artist Relations, talked about today&#8217;s Day One events and what\u00a0 visitors will get to see tomorrow!<\/p>\n<p><em>The summertime Renegade Craft Fair runs from from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow, Sunday, July 21, for its second and final day at Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 North Spring Street \u00a0 Admission is free.\u00a0 The following weekend, their San Francisco summer show will be at Fort Mason on Saturday and Sunday, July 27th and 28th, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2634\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2519\">Two &#8220;Renegade&#8221; Weekends Forthcoming<\/a>  July 12, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/renegade-craft-fair-sign-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2521\" alt=\"renegade craft fair sign 1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/renegade-craft-fair-sign-1.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"522\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/renegade-craft-fair-sign-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/renegade-craft-fair-sign-1-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/renegade-craft-fair-sign-1-402x300.jpg 402w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Uh-oh.\u00a0 It&#8217;s<em> that<\/em> time again.<\/p>\n<p>Time to plan on grabbing an umbrella and sunscreen, and heading for the summertime <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>This eclectic collection of imaginative artists is set to make an appearance in Los Angeles next Saturday and Sunday, July 20th and 21st.\u00a0\u00a0 Then, just in case you&#8217;re Bay Area-bound, you can also catch them in San Francisco on the following weekend, July 27th and 28th.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2519\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2452\">&#8220;Crafternoons&#8221; Add Summer Fun<\/a>  July 7, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/danielle-and-eva-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2460\" alt=\"danielle and eva 1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/danielle-and-eva-1.jpg\" width=\"492\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/danielle-and-eva-1.jpg 492w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/danielle-and-eva-1-246x300.jpg 246w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 492px) 100vw, 492px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;<em>I&#8217;m bored!\u00a0 What can I do nowwww?&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<p>(Remember how we said that, in summers past?\u00a0 And now, you may be hearing a reprise, courtesy of the next generation?)<\/p>\n<p>Lisa Cherry, of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.themakerysocal.com\">The Makery modern crafts studio,<\/a> has a solution.\u00a0 And neighbors Eva Lacy and Danielle Ochoa, proprietors of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop?fref=ts\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, are helping to implement Lisa&#8217;s great idea: a <a href=\"http:\/\/alittleknownshop.wordpress.com\/2013\/06\/29\/crafternoons-every-tuesday-starting-july-2nd\/\">ten-week series called &#8220;Crafternoons&#8221;,<\/a> for kids ages five to ten!\u00a0 Eva teaches and uses her artistic talents for face painting, while Danielle &#8220;minds the store&#8221; at their new Little Known Shop.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Crafternoons&#8221;, which run for two hours on Tuesdays, just launched last week in Anaheim.\u00a0 These special programs start at 1 p.m., and include drawing, painting, assemblage, and storytelling.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2452\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2387\">Red, White and Blue Creativity<\/a>  June 28, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shop-American-Saturday1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2396\" alt=\"shop American Saturday1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shop-American-Saturday1.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shop-American-Saturday1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shop-American-Saturday1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shop-American-Saturday1-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Couldn&#8217;t make it to Friday&#8217;s birthday open house at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>, or didn&#8217;t know about it in time?\u00a0 Don&#8217;t feel bad&#8211;look what they&#8217;re doing Saturday, in honor of the Fourth of July!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/sas\/\">CRAFTED&#8217;s Shop American Saturday<\/a> will include appearances by the <a href=\"http:\/\/longbeachderbygals.com\/\">Long Beach Derby Gals<\/a>, a nail bar, face painting for the kids and some tempting burgers and funnel cake available for purchase!<\/p>\n<p>And don&#8217;t be too surprised if you wind up dancing.\u00a0 Their live bands kick off at 2:00, with eight different groups playing sets till 8:00 that evening!<\/p>\n<p>Also, you could win something amazing!\u00a0\u00a0 Bring wearable items of clothing to donate for their Veterans Clothing Drive and Raffle, and you&#8217;ll receive raffle tickets, for a chance to win American-made goods.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s going to be a star-spangled weekend as<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla?fref=ts\"> CRAFTED<\/a> launches into its second year!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em>CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles has extended hours tomorrow, June 29th: 11:00 a.m. till 8 p.m.\u00a0 Their regular hours are every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 pm.\u00a0 Parking and admission are free.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2387\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2376\">Celebrating a Milestone<\/a>  June 28, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/celebration1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2389\" alt=\"celebration1\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/celebration1.jpg\" width=\"527\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/celebration1.jpg 527w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/celebration1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Two warehouses&#8211;one renovated, one in the works.\u00a0\u00a0 More than a hundred artists displaying their work, with more to come.\u00a0 Fifty-two weekends of workshops, live music, food trucks, special celebrations and creativity.<\/p>\n<p>All of the above have added up to an exciting first year for <a href=\"craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a>.\u00a0 And at Friday&#8217;s open-house birthday celebration, even blazing temperatures couldn&#8217;t subtract from the fun.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors were treated to cupcakes, divinity, coffee and wine.\u00a0 Lots of laughter and socializing went on, and guests gave some rousing cheers during a presentation by Rachel Waugh,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla?fref=ts\"> CRAFTED<\/a> Executive Director, as she mentioned some of the artisans who have been onsite since CRAFTED&#8217;s opening day.<\/p>\n<p>The loudest cheer, however, was directed at Rachel herself&#8211;for all her hard work since her arrival at CRAFTED in August, 2012.<\/p>\n<p>Just prior to the celebration, Rachel talked about her experiences, some of the factors that make CRAFTED special, and their plans for the future.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2376\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2336\">A CRAFTED First<\/a>  June 25, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-648\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign too\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too1.jpg\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too1.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too1-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Can <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> <em>really<\/em> be turning one year old, already?<\/p>\n<p>How time does fly when you&#8217;re learning crafts, listening to live music and buying unique handcrafted gifts.<\/p>\n<p>Year-round crafts marketplace <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla?fref=ts\">CRAFTED<\/a> did, in fact, open its doors on Friday evening, June 29, 2012.\u00a0 And this Friday, June 28th, you&#8217;re invited to come celebrate with them as they host an open house, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.!\u00a0\u00a0 They&#8217;ll have special treats from their exhibiting artists, libations from Off the Vine and coffee and tea from Sacred Grounds, in San Pedro.<\/p>\n<p>Want to get some shopping in, with lunch, before the party starts?\u00a0 They open at 11:00 that day, with the Don Chow Tacos truck scheduled to make an appearance at noon.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2336\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2303\">Time For a Party<\/a>  June 17, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/susan-and-lauren-at-patchwork.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2328\" alt=\"susan and lauren at patchwork\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/susan-and-lauren-at-patchwork.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"527\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/susan-and-lauren-at-patchwork.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/susan-and-lauren-at-patchwork-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/susan-and-lauren-at-patchwork-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Feeling &#8220;crafty&#8221;?\u00a0 Susan Varteresian and Lauren Macaluso invite you to come party with them!<\/p>\n<p>As their<a href=\"http:\/\/www.creativeoutletstudios.com\/\"> Creative Outlet Studios<\/a> venture, in Costa Mesa, celebrates its first summer in existence, they&#8217;re having an <a href=\"http:\/\/creative-outlet-studios.myshopify.com\/collections\/frontpage\/products\/etsy-craft-party\">Etsy Craft Party this Thursday evening, June 20th<\/a>!\u00a0 Think music, raffles, food, drink, fun, and of course&#8211;lots of chances to be creative!<\/p>\n<p>Scheduled crafting sessions include natural fabric dyeing, cardmaking (and a chance to give back&#8211;you get to make one for yourself, and one for a charity!) and a nail bar, with suggestions from Pinterest.\u00a0 Zombie country-soul pop band <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/HankandherPonies\">Hank and her Ponies <\/a>will be there to entertain,\u00a0 and you just might win something amazing, and handcrafted, from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ALittleKnownShop\">A Little Known Shop<\/a>, which is supplying raffle prizes from local Etsy sellers!<\/p>\n<p>Think a little chocolate or some incredible macarons or sugar cookies might fuel the creative process even more?\u00a0 They&#8217;ve thought of that, too&#8211;their dessert bar will be ready for inspection!\u00a0 There will also be wine and beer available for sale.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2303\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2216\">Almost Summer, Complete Creativity<\/a>  May 27, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2235\" alt=\"patchwork sign2\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/patchwork-sign2-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sunday&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/patchworkshow\">Patchwork Show Modern Handmade Festival <\/a>was a celebration!<\/p>\n<p>Tents lined Broadway as more than 150 crafters converged on the downtown area of Santa Ana.\u00a0 Festivalgoers admired everything from luster-fired ceramics to artisan soaps,\u00a0 sculpted gold jewelry and handmade vintage clothing.<\/p>\n<p>Music filled the air as performers played on three music stages.\u00a0 Families lined up to create something special of their own at the &#8220;Amazing Human-powered Art Machine&#8221;.\u00a0\u00a0 A few steps away, organizers talked with attendees about their proposed upcoming <a href=\"http:\/\/www.indiegogo.com\/projects\/rock-n-roll-camp-for-girls-orange-county\">Orange County Rock N&#8217; Roll Camp For Girls, currently funding on Indiegogo.<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0 (They have four days left and are nearly three-quarters of the way to being completely funded!) <\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2216\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2149\">Celebrating Wednesday&#8211;and the Solstice<\/a>  May 4, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2157\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign too\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg 700w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/CRAFTED-sign-too-456x300.jpg 456w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This upcoming Wednesday, May 8th, is a special occasion at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\">CRAFTED.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Normally, this year-round crafts market is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.\u00a0 But this week, the <em>Celebrity Solstice<\/em> comes into port&#8211;and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> has special hours, to celebrate!<\/p>\n<p>From 10:00 that morning to 4:00 p.m., CRAFTED will be open, with live music by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/lorettamcnairartist?group_id=0\">songwriter and artist Loretta McNair<\/a>, special handcrafted gifts available (in case you couldn&#8217;t find something special for Mom!), <em>and<\/em> wine tasting, with a chance to meet Central Coast winemaker Greg Allen, from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Cuatro-Dias-Winery\/258965580838338\">Cuatro Dias winery<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Can&#8217;t make it this Wednesday?\u00a0 You might like to look ahead to the weekend&#8217;s crafts classes&#8211;you can make a picture frame for Mom, this Friday, Saturday or Sunday!\u00a0 Classes start at 11:00 a.m. this Friday, May 10th, in CRAFTED&#8217;s &#8220;Creation Station&#8221;!<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=2149\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=1836\">Inspiration By the Sea<\/a>  February 19, 2013<div class=\"lcp_content\"><div>\n<dl id=\"attachment_1855\">\n<dt><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/craftcation-cofounder-nicole-stevenson1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Craftcation co-founder Nicole Stevenson.\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/craftcation-cofounder-nicole-stevenson1.jpg\" width=\"424\" height=\"600\" \/><\/a><\/dt>\n<dd>Craftcation co-founder Nicole Stevenson.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"size-full wp-image-1851\">Artisan ice cream making.\u00a0 Beachside yoga.\u00a0 Networking.\u00a0\u00a0 Beer and croquet.\u00a0 A chance to learn all about starting and\/or growing a small business&#8230;or an opportunity to just &#8220;hang out by the beach and make stuff&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s all going to be a part of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.craftcationconference.com\/\">Craftcation 2013.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is a combination small-business and crafts conference, and the brainchild of <a href=\"http:\/\/patchworkshow.com\/\">Patchwork Indie Arts and Crafts Festival<\/a> co-founders Nicole Stevenson and Delilah Snell.<\/p>\n<p>2013 is their second year of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/craftcation\">Craftcation<\/a>, which is the first conference of its type in Southern California.\u00a0 This year&#8217;s four-day Craftcation Business and DIY Conference happens in Ventura, from Thursday, March 21 through Sunday, March 24th.<\/p>\n<p>So far, according to Craftcation&#8217;s website, the &#8220;crafting&#8221; workshops will include such topics as knitting, jewelrymaking and felting.\u00a0\u00a0 The small-business sessions will cover such areas as pricing, legalities and booth design for craft fairs. \u00a0 And the social aspects of the conference will feature a barbecue, a &#8220;Ventura food tour&#8221; and an &#8217;80s dance party!<\/p>\n<p class=\"size-full wp-image-1855\">But&#8211;if you&#8217;d like to go, don&#8217;t procrastinate.\u00a0 The deadline for <a href=\"http:\/\/www.craftcationconference.com\/register\/\">registration<\/a> is March 1.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=1836\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=1334\">Twelve Days of Creativity<\/a>  December 14, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/CRAFTED-sign.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1350\" title=\"CRAFTED sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/CRAFTED-sign.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED sign\" width=\"493\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/CRAFTED-sign.jpg 493w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/CRAFTED-sign-246x300.jpg 246w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 493px) 100vw, 493px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Create something special, get in the Christmas spirit, and have fun.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s what it&#8217;s all about at <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED,<\/a> in San Pedro, these last two weekends before Christmas.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> is San Pedro&#8217;s year-round crafts marketplace.\u00a0\u00a0 And they&#8217;re currently celebrating the &#8220;Twelve Days of CRAFTSmas,&#8221; with a series of hands-on weekend workshops with their talented artists.<\/p>\n<p>Their next workshop happens this afternoon, December 14th, from 2 to 4, with Lindsay Z. of Wood Brain, who will be showing attendees how to make a unique Christmas postcard, for sending or decorating!<\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_1365\" style=\"width: 910px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/woodbrainmakeandtake4.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1365\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1365\" title=\"Wood Brain &quot;Make and Take&quot; poster\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/woodbrainmakeandtake4.png\" alt=\"Wood Brain &quot;Make and Take&quot; poster\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/woodbrainmakeandtake4.png 900w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/woodbrainmakeandtake4-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/woodbrainmakeandtake4-450x300.png 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-1365\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image courtesy of Rachel Waugh and CRAFTED, and used with permission.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=1334\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=151\">Resolute at Renegade&#8230;Until&#8230;<\/a>  December 5, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-274\" title=\"Renegade Craft Fair, July 2012, Los Angeles\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1.jpg\" alt=\"Renegade Craft Fair, July 2012, Los Angeles\" width=\"600\" height=\"355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/remegade-long-shot-use-this-resized1-500x295.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a>&#8220;I am <em>not<\/em> here to buy anything,&#8221; I told myself sternly.\u00a0\u00a0 &#8220;This is all about talking to artists, OK?&#8221;\u00a0\u00a0 With that resolution in mind, and microphone in hand,\u00a0 I entered the Summer 2012 <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a> in Los Angeles State Historic Park, last July.<\/p>\n<p>Well&#8230;um&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Three hours and two pairs of earrings, two cakes of scented soap, a wooden card that&#8217;s perfect for my husband and a Renegade Craft Fair T-Shirt later, I accepted that my steely resolve needs work!\u00a0 (At least, where unique handmade crafts are concerned.\u00a0 How come I didn&#8217;t buy a partridge in a pear tree?\u00a0\u00a0 No one seemed to have made one, in July!)<\/p>\n<p>That may not be an issue as the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RenCraftFair\">Renegade Craft Fair <\/a>opens its Holiday Show this weekend in Los Angeles, and next weekend in San Francisco.\u00a0\u00a0 And if you find yourself going overboard on all those independent creative entrepreneurs&#8217; wood\/pewter\/silver necklaces, handpainted pottery, fabric arts and all kinds of other &#8220;goodies&#8221;&#8211;take heart.\u00a0 Your dilemma&#8217;s best summed up by a comment from Sarah Spies, Director of Media and Vendor Relations, as I voiced my determination not to purchase anything <em>else:<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Good luck!&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><em>The Renegade Craft Fair runs from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday, December 8th and 9th, in Los Angeles State Historic Park, and from 11 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday, December 15th and 16th, at the Concourse Exhibition Center in San Francisco.<\/em><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=151\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=298\">San Pedro&#8217;s Hidden Jewel<\/a>  October 24, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-327\" title=\"CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles sign\" alt=\"CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg\" width=\"452\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too.jpg 452w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CRAFTED-sign-too-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 452px) 100vw, 452px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s full of color, sound, and creativity.\u00a0 Everything you see has an artist&#8217;s story behind it.\u00a0 And forget what you think of, when you hear &#8220;crafts&#8221;&#8211;this is definitely NOT your grandmother&#8217;s macrame!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> is a vibrant new crafts market, where almost a hundred fifty talented artisans have permanent stores.\u00a0\u00a0 Browsing their aisles, you&#8217;ll find <em>everything<\/em>&#8211;from jewelry based on folk magic, to margarita cupcakes and handcrafted shoes!<\/p>\n<p>These are juried artists, selected for their quality and uniqueness.\u00a0 A walk through <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla?ref=ts\">CRAFTED<\/a> leaves you with a sense of warmth, celebration and some very special people who are creating and sharing what they love.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=298\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=336\">Sharon Fain and Rachel Robinson Interview, Pt. 2<\/a>  October 24, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><div id=\"attachment_337\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/CRAFTED-staff-too-resized-for-posting.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-337\" class=\"size-full wp-image-337\" title=\"CRAFTED at the port of los angeles staffers\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/CRAFTED-staff-too-resized-for-posting.jpg\" alt=\"CRAFTED at the port of los angeles staffers\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/CRAFTED-staff-too-resized-for-posting.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/CRAFTED-staff-too-resized-for-posting-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/CRAFTED-staff-too-resized-for-posting-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-337\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The staff of CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles (L-R): Outreach and Media Manager Sharon Fain; Events Manager Rachel Waugh; Acting Director Rachel Robinson; Food and Beverage Manager Michale Musel: Operations Manager Lana Girven.<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=336\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=340\">Sharon Fain and Rachel Robinson Interview, Pt. 3<\/a>  October 24, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/looking-for-vendors-resized.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-341\" title=\"Crafted vendor recruitment sign\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/looking-for-vendors-resized.jpg\" alt=\"Crafted vendor recruitment sign\" width=\"600\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/looking-for-vendors-resized.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/looking-for-vendors-resized-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/looking-for-vendors-resized-398x300.jpg 398w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sharon and Rachel say<a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Craftedportla\"> CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles<\/a> accepts crafters with unique, all-handmade, high-quality items.\u00a0 There&#8217;s a juried selection process; if you are a crafter who&#8217;d like to be considered, check out their <a href=\"http:\/\/craftedportla.com\/\">website!<\/a><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=340\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=580\">A Creative &#8220;Renegade&#8221;<\/a>  October 20, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/susie-daly-renegade1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-590\" title=\"Renegade Craft Fair Co-Founder and Director Susie Daly\" src=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/susie-daly-renegade1.jpg\" alt=\"Renegade Craft Fair Co-Founder and Director Susie Daly\" width=\"600\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/susie-daly-renegade1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/susie-daly-renegade1-300x262.jpg 300w, https:\/\/noelophile.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/susie-daly-renegade1-343x300.jpg 343w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.renegadecraft.com\/\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a> happens in Los Angeles and San Francisco in December!\u00a0\u00a0 And it all started off with an artist who couldn&#8217;t find what she was looking for.<\/p>\n<p>In 2002, Renegade Craft Fair Co-Creator and Director Susie Daly was making jewelry.\u00a0 She&#8217;d made enough inventory to start selling her work in new contemporary-crafts venues.<\/p>\n<p>The only problem was, no such venues existed at the time.<\/p>\n<p>So, Susie accepted the challenge. \u00a0 With 70 crafters chosen in a juried selection process, she coordinated Chicago&#8217;s first <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RenCraftFair\">Renegade Craft Fair<\/a>, in River Park!<\/p>\n<p>Susie recalls that inaugural event as being simple, low-key&#8211;and refreshing.\u00a0\u00a0 Crafters enjoyed offering work they loved to create, in a setting designed especially for them.\u00a0 Within two years, the Renegade Craft Fair was branching out to Brooklyn, New York.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I was there on a trip and walked past McKinley Park, which reminded me of River Park,&#8221; Susie explained.\u00a0 Inspiration struck, and Brooklyn became a &#8220;Renegade&#8221; city&#8211;soon followed by San Francisco, Austin and Los Angeles.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=580\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=68\">A &#8220;Patchwork&#8221; of Creativity<\/a>  October 15, 2012<div class=\"lcp_content\"><p><a href=\"http:\/\/noelophile.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/Patchwork-Fair-Spring-2012.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Patchwork Festival Spring 2012\" src=\"http:\/\/noelophile.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/Patchwork-Fair-Spring-2012.jpg\" alt=\"Patchwork Arts and Crafts Festival, Spring 2012, Culver City\" width=\"600\" height=\"444\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The<a href=\"http:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/\"> Patchwork Indie Arts and Crafts Festival<\/a> has <a href=\"http:\/\/campaign.r20.constantcontact.com\/render?llr=5setvsdab&amp;v=001JDLmfWZhcAx_quewvUu3v6gMeP8VLRvi0YyKqfJ6dMNiSkTtvKj5sarrBknRc1ic6OW7U2aT86-n67gKdhdMczfxpX9aP_ObRo7rSRZ47Bpt5JeNO8bp0Q%3D%3D\">four upcoming shows<\/a>, for Fall, 2012!\u00a0\u00a0 And that includes one in a brand-new location: Oakland, on November 18th!\u00a0\u00a0 &#8220;Patchwork&#8221; features more than 100 artists, plus music, crafts classes and food trucks&#8211;and admission&#8217;s free!<\/p>\n<p>The NEXT &#8220;Patchwork&#8221; show?\u00a0 Mark your calendar&#8211;it&#8217;s coming up quickly.\u00a0 It&#8217;s happening in <a href=\"http:\/\/www.patchworkshow.com\/locations-santa-ana.php\">Santa Ana on Saturday, November 25th!<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Patchwork&#8221; is the invention of artist\/writer\/designer and teacher Nicole Stevenson, creator of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.randomnicole.com\/\">&#8220;Random Nicole&#8221; <\/a>wearable-art line.\u00a0\u00a0 With her aunt, fellow <a href=\"http:\/\/www.roadlesstraveledstore.com\/\">artist\/entrepreneur Delilah Snell<\/a>, Nicole started the first Patchwork Indie Arts and Crafts Festival in Santa Ana in 2007.\u00a0 Recently, Noelophile<strong>\u2122<\/strong>talked with her about her experiences.<\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/noelophile.com\/?p=68\" title=\"Continue reading &rarr;\">Continue reading &rarr;<\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><strong><br 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