Valeries Gallery

Valerie's Gallery features handmade felted wool vessels and handknit accessories. This shop carries handbags, wallets, bowls, vases, and more. Valerie is from Boonville, NY - A small town with population around 2,100. This town has 2 traffic lights and a lovely 'old time' feel. Valerie also has a wonderful BLOG. I would love to watch Valerie make her felted products. Still don't quite understand how it all works. Aren't these slippers just the cutest you've every seen?

#1. How did you decide on your shop name?

I don't have a knack for naming things and initially I was toying with the idea of Kessler's Kozy Knitting Kottage, but my sister suggested Valerie's Gallery and it was a hit. I am very glad I went with her idea! And even though we live on opposite ends of the US, I will sometimes send her a picture of one of my pieces and ask her for suggestions for names. She always comes through for me and we have fun throwing ideas back and forth.

#2. When did you start crafting?

I learned to knit and crochet as a child from my Mom and then during my 30's I was quilting up a storm. I love everything made with yarns and fabrics. It wasn't until one of my daughters went to college and joined a fiber arts club that I was exposed to felting. She showed me the principles of felting and I applied what I knew about knitting and crochet and it has been a happy marriage since then! I try to mix classic with hip, representing both my mother and daughter.

#3. Are there other crafts you would like to try?

One day, when I have some extra time, I really want to try weaving. My sister-in-law recently sent me her lap-loom with the instructions and I can't wait to give it a try. I've also tried basketmaking but mine come out a bit wobbly, so I'll leave that to the professionals!

#4. What or who inspires you?

I feel most inspired by nature. I am lucky enough to live in a beautiful area in Central NY State that provides a beautiful visual mix of wonderful colors. I like to believe that my work reflects that beauty by combining colors, shapes and texture.

#5. Do you have a day job?

I just celebrated my 20th anniversary working for MetLife. My current position is that of Vendor Management Consultant. It is interesting work and I have had a rewarding career there. But when business is over at the end of the day, I love coming home to put my creative side of me to work!

#6. What is the item in your shop you enjoyed making the most and why?

I really enjoyed making this White Lily bowl as I am playing with making my vessles more dementional. I like to experiement and try new techniques and I really like the way this one turned out. I already have ideas swirling around in my head for more, and I can't wait to give them a try.http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24671206