local artisans Archives - grace grits and gardening

THANK YOU.

On Gracie Lee’s anniversary, the book is selling well and may even be picking up steam. That’s a cool thing, especially for a first-time author one year later. And I have you to thank for it. Because when you tell a friend about it or write a review or post something on Facebook, the buzz builds little by little.

Of course, we must celebrate. Right?

Celebrate = cool GIVEAWAY! (Woodworx Workshop is sponsoring this giveaway, but all opinions are my own.)

But first, a few thoughts on the year.

One year later, I have lots to say about the experience. Continue Reading

This! Check out the whimsical, tiny clay version of our house. Our mini-me house.

I’m a big believer in supporting local artisans whether the artist is a painter, writer, potter, jeweler, cheese-maker, basket weaver, etc. Handmade artisans work hard, and they do it for the love of their craft. One of a kind, handmade items add a special something-something to a home. Cookie cutter decor? No way. Think outside the mall. It’s so much more fun.

Beth Macre of Beth S. Macre Studio (Springdale, Ar) made our clay ceramic mini-me home based on the picture below.

She completely exceeded my expectations, so much so that I felt compelled to blog about it. Look at the porch detail. In the picture below, our tiny clay house is sitting on the front porch rail. A porch on a porch:)

Beth makes all sorts of whimsical clay art and can custom make a version of your house, too. (Ours is featured on her blog, along with a peek of her other fanciful creations.) She’s a true, meticulous artist who even worked to get the paint colors just right.

I’m thinking this would be a great gift idea for a new homeowner. Also, what a perfect hostess gift for folks on home tour (Munger Place, Swiss Ave, Washington-Willow, etc.). In fact, I can probably think of a ton of reasons everyone needs a one-of-a-kind miniature house. Because the sun is shining. Because I didn’t eat ice cream last night when I really wanted it. Lots.Of.Reasons.

Beth’s clay homes are small. Tiny, really. As with most handmade items, sizes vary. Mine is smaller than the width of a clothespin.

tiny whimsical clay houses by Beth S. Macre Studios

Back of our house. Such detail!

Check out Beth’s HeartHomes Etsy shop for lots of cute, ready-to-buy little houses, clay bowls, and other items. Or go the custom route like I did. And, p.s., I just discovered she also makes clay trees which I may need around my house.

I’m not kidding when I say this little house makes me happy. Sometimes it’s the tiniest of things that put a smile on my face.

Fyi, this is not a sponsored post. I’m spreading the word because I love Beth’s work. And guess what? Through the end of June, Beth S. Macre Studio is offering a 15% discount off any purchase, including custom listings. Use the code BLOG15 at checkout to get your discount at HeartHomes, Beth’s Etsy shop.

I can’t wait to see your happy mini-me house. Yay!

Grace Grits and Gardening

Farm. Food. Garden. Life.

[tweetthis]Because everyone needs a miniature version of their home! @bmacre #ceramic #ArkansasArtisan #clay #SupportLocalArt[/tweetthis]

Musical Pairing:

Happy, Pharrell Williams