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Monday, June 22, 2009

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


14 comments:

  1. Such sweet bunnies! Loved the interview!

    xo
    Sophie

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  2. Aw you're right, those bunny slippers ARE adorable! I would like to know more about the felting process too.

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  3. I love her store and her name!
    Great interview, I enjoyed the late morning read :)

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  4. Great interview and those bunnies are so cute. Makes me wish I had kids or at least young nieces. The bangles are so cool and I really love those felted bowls...shoot I just love her shop period.

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  5. One more vote for the bunnies as absolutely adorable!

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  6. what a great artist, those bunnies had me squeaking with delight :)

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  7. I agree with everyone, the bunnies are adorable. Felting is very cool and such a skill! Great shop.

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  8. Thanks so much for the terrific feature! I would love to have you visit and I can give you a demonstration. Just stop on in~
    Thanks again, Val
    woolietreasures.com

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  9. Love the bunny slippers and the 'blueberry' bowl. I have an item of hers in my favorites - the items are adorable and so different.

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  10. Just wanted to let you know that we've given you an award. Please stop by our blog to check it out and, if you are inclined, pass it along to some other great blogs. Kind regards, Lisa.

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  11. awesome interview ! i just love the bunny slippers :D

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  12. I'm so jealous! Needle felting just seems to be beyond me.

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  13. Her stuff is too cute!!
    Love the bunny slippers :D

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