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Artsie-Fartsie is something that we have dreamed about for years. Together we have over 50 years of crafting fun. We talked about starting Artsie-Fartsie in the early 80's, never really imaging that we would finally do it 25 years later.
Once Upon a Time...
Pat and Dee worked together in a Bank. But we had a lot of fun anyway with the people we worked with. The friendships we formed have lasted for many many years. They have blossomed and grown. As a matter of fact we still get together monthly for cards. We talked about someday opening a shop called Artsie-Fartsie way back then. Of course in the early 80's we had no idea the impact that the world wide web would have on all of us. So 25 years later we finally did it! Who Knew!
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Meet Pat and Dee
Growing up in the mid 40's & 50's, leisure time was used up playing games and learning to embroider, sew, knit, crochet, make rag rugs and paint by number. None of that made me an expert but I survived , as a result, I love to try new things. Somewhere along the line, about 20 years ago, I got hooked on making porcelain dolls and I love the art so much that I eventually opened my own studio and have been teaching and making dolls ever since, just for the fun of it. I was very lucky to have had a wonderful teacher who loved the process also and who taught me the dos and don’ts. The people I have met and worked with keep the inspiration and challenge fresh and exciting.
About 4 years ago my students and I wanted to make tiny tea sets for our dolls. Another hobby was born to us. China painting is a new process for me and yet another wonderful teacher inspires me to keep learning new techniques. It still amazes me how much my teacher pulls out of me, what a thrill.
My friend Dee enjoys working her talent of cross stitching, and she, also, is a great baker and makes wonderful jelly. Between the two of us we decided to join forces to see what we can do with all of our wares, maybe other people would be interested also. Artsie Fartsie was born. That name has been rattling around in our heads for a long time and it fits some of the things we have tried in the past. Hopefully, you will agree with us as we show you our "Artsie" side.
Pat
I can remember as a child, my mother teaching me to embroider pillowcases with iron on transfers. I don't remember how well I did but I do remember the lessons. She also tried to teach me to knit and crochet, which she did very well, with no luck. I have never mastered those skills.
Later my sister and I branched out into sewing and candle-making. It was the 60's after all, candles were Cool! And they satisfied that do-it-yourself itch.
It was later, in college that I was exposed to Petit Point and bagello. And then my sister introduced me to Cross Stitching and the rest is history. Before long the walls of my house (and my familys' as well) were lined with pictures.
Of course I have now branched out into needlepoint, hook rugs, plastic canvas and bead work as well as the bagello and cross stitch. And pictures are only one of my interests. I have done greeting cards, clothing, paperweights, bookends, towels, almost anything that has cloth. Plus baskets, favors, Christmas ornaments and lots more in needlepoint
Dee
