What region do you live in?
I live in Central NY State, just before entering the Adirondack Park. When I tell people I live in NY, everyone thinks I live in the city, but I live just outside a town of only 2,300 people. Hometown goodness!
What kind of items do you create?
My shop features items that are knit, crocheted and/or felted. I mainly use wool and wool blends, but have been experimenting with some soy and bamboo yarns as well.
How long have you been creating?
I've been crafting since I was in junior high. I really put craftiness in action when my children were little and made many of their toys, clothes and decorated their rooms. When one of my daughters only wish for Christmas was a store bought sweater, it broke my heart...
What or Who are your creative influences?
My parents have always been my biggest influence regarding creativity. Mom would make everything for our home, including curtains, rugs, tablecloths and clothes. My dad was a wonderful woodworker and made absolutely gorgeous items that I will treasure forever, including a hand carved cradle for my children.
Do you work outside of the home/studio?
I do work full time as a Business Consultant at MetLife Insurance Co and will be celebrating my 20th year there in April. It has been a rewarding and fun career.
If you could be in someone else's studio or kitchen, whose would that be?
There are sooo many talented people that it would be very difficult to choose.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What are your goals with your business?
In 5 years I would love to have my business be supportive enough to retire from MetLife and keep my days filled with knitting! There are just too many ideas in my head and not enough time to do them all.
Where else can your products be found?
In addition to Etsy, I have a shop on Shophandmade - http://valeriesgallery.shophandmade.com and Art Fire - http://valeriesgallery.artfire.com
Are you a member of any organizations or have any affiliations?
I am a member of Fabulous Artistic Moms - FAM - http://fam-fabulousartisticmoms.blogspot.com/ Etsy For Charity - http://etsyforcharity.etsy.com , EtsyHookers (a crochet group), Artfire Fiber Arts Guild, WeLoveArtfire Guild, and Artfire Yarnies
What is your education as it pertains to your craft?
I was taught the basics by my mother and self taught from there.
What is your favorite part of creating handmade items?
I love working out the details and perfecting the finished product. I am always trying new techniques and although they may not always work out as planned, I always learn something..whether is is what works or what doesn't.
Please Connect with Valerie at all her links.
Blog: http://feltedtreasures.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/valeriesgallery
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