Behind-the-Scenes
Periodically, Handcrafted Alexandria will feature interviews and behind-the-scenes stories and photos from our partners.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
At Carafe Wine Makers, we are a micro winery where we handcraft all of our wine on-site.
Name one artist / artisan / brand that you think everyone should check out.
Our most popular red wine, the Rosso Miscela Reserve, is an Italian blend of Cabernet and Merlot. It is robust and full bodied, yet smooth and complex.
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
The sense of community, of knowing your neighbor. We love getting to meet Old Town’s residents, who shop locally.
Does your store have any upcoming special events or programs?
We do! On Monday, February 14th we will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with Chocolate Meets Carafe. We’ll be pairing some of our finest wines with artisan chocolates and other sumptuous treats.
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
We have recently introduced a new, limited edition wine to our collection called Rappour. It is a Chilean blend of Cabernet, Malbec and carmenere.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
Every item in our store was handmade by an artisan in the developing world, or as we like to say: every item in our store has a person’s face behind it!
Name one artist / artisan / brand that you think everyone should check out.
There are so many! We are especially fond of the cut metal from Haiti, especially in light of the devastating earthquake and now cholera epidemic there. The wall art is all made from recycled oil drums, and the artists clean and flatten the metal by hand, draw the design in chalk, and then hand cut it. We have painted and unpainted wall items, ranging in size from 8-inch geckos to climb your walls to 36-inch intricate filigreed pieces suitable for a window.
Over the holidays the staff all had a lot of fun telling customers about a new line of paper products from Sri Lanka. The paper is made from - are you ready? – elephant dung! The company was founded as a way to show farmers, who were killing the elephants into extinction due to land competition, that elephants could be useful. The notecards, photo frames, journals etc. are durable and clever, and a percentage of the profits go to support additional elephant conservation projects in Sri Lanka. So it’s “win, win, win, and win”!
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
The people who established our store here in 1994 were attracted by the walkability of the neighborhood, as well as the fact that it had a good mix of residents who supported local businesses as well as visitors from all over the world. And being so close to Washington, DC, the local population is very global-oriented and cosmopolitan, and would appreciate the international flavor of our store.
Does your store have any upcoming special events or programs?
Every other month or so we hold shopping fundraisers to benefit local organizations. In March we’ll celebrate International Women’s Day with a fundraiser for a local women’s group, and in April we’ll hold a fundraiser for Earth Day. Keep checking our website for more details, as they develop.
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
We get new items every month. In January we’ll have some beautiful new sculptures and jewelry for Valentine’s Day. And we’re especially intrigued with a new slat crystal candleholder from Pakistan. Salt crystals, when warmed, release negative ions and help purify the air.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
Gossypia features one-of-a-kind pieces whether unique jewelry, wearable art or interesting nativities or Latin American decorative accessories.
Name one artist / artisan / brand that you think everyone should check out.
Shoppers should check out the jewelry designed by Federico. Made in the West, this Mexican jeweler creates beautiful earrings, necklaces and other pieces from silver and turquoise.
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
When I moved to Old Town over 40 years ago, the town had the close-knit feel of the town from which I came. At that time, almost all of the shops were owned by local, small business owners. Even though this has changed, there are still many individual, interesting businesses in Old Town.
Does your store have any upcoming special events or programs?
Through the month of December, Gossypia will feature nativities from around the world. The shop also carries folk art from Latin America and other developing countries.
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
Gossypia has a history of featuring new artisans and designers. Check out our new nativity by Cajun artist, Lorraine Gendron. Stocking stuffers include bangle bracelets by Post Chic whose scarves the store will begin to carry in the spring. Another ideal gift is a scarf from a new line made in India.
Monday, November 15, 2010
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
We are a hand knitting and crochet supply shop, with all of the tools, fibre and notions that you need to create your own garments and accessories.
Name one artist / artisan / brand that you think everyone should check out.
We love to feature local artists. Our favorite is Neighborhood Fiber Co. She is a DC native and has named each of her colorways after DC neighborhoods. We even have an Old Town colorway!
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
I am a resident of Old Town and live just five blocks from my store. This town has a wonderful knit and crochet community already in place and the residents here embrace small independently owned business. It seemed like the perfect place for the shop.
Does your store have any upcoming special events or programs?
Every Thursday night we invite the local community to join us for “Stitch in Space.” This is a time to come out and work on a project and get free knit & crochet help from our staff. We start around 5 pm and are open late, until 9 pm. On Thursday, November 18th we will feature a special workshop on “getting gauge.”
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
We have a lot of wonderful accessories for the fibre artist – including new jewelry that functions as both a handy tool and a cute accessory.
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Get a behind-the-scenes look at The Art League School & Gallery with Gallery Director Rose O'Donnell
What classes and workshops can people sign-up for at the Art League School? 
Every one of our classes offers instruction by professional artists. We offer classes in Weaving, Fiber Arts, Jewelry Making, Ceramics, Sculpture, and Drawing, Oil Painting, Watercolor, Acrylic Painting, Printmaking and Photography. We also offer professional development classes such as Matting and Framing, Photographing Your Artwork and the business of art. We offer a wide variety of classes specifically geared for children and teenagers including cartooning and claymation.
What do you recommend for beginners?
Beginners will find a variety of “Jump Start” classes in every medium including drawing, jewelry making, ceramics, printmaking and painting.
Do you have any new classes coming up?
Registration for Fall Classes is underway. Classes begin September 20, 2010. Click here to check out the catalogue!
What makes the Art League Gallery Handcrafted?
The Art League Gallery sells only original art by local artists. We feature paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, photography, printmaking and mixed media in monthly exhibits juried by top visual arts professionals from the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Art League has over 1,000 member artists from Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. Each month we have a juried exhibit featuring 120-130 original works of art.
Does the Art League have any upcoming special events or programs?
Art Activated on September 11, will feature demonstrations by Art League instructors here in the Torpedo Factory and at Market Square in Old Town Alexandria from 12 Noon to 4:00pm. We will also be selling artisan ice cream from Noon – 6pm in handmade bowls from our ceramics department for $15 per bowl.
Can people follow you on Facebook, Twitter, or any other media?
Check out our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and our blog.
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Imagine Artwear with owner Carol Supplee.
How did you get the idea for opening a store like Imagine Artwear?
Visiting crafts shows again after a 15 year career in bank marketing ended with the savings and loan crisis in 1990. I was struck by how a generation of weavers, silk painters and other fiber artists had created new lines of clothing tailored for working women. Working women who would appreciate having a little style they could call their own was a market I felt I understood. I did some market research -- drove to every wearable art gallery I could find between here and Philadelphia. I haunted craft shows from Boston to Baltimore, interviewing artists and asking questions. Even experimented with home marketing. In 1992, I took the plunge. Imagine Artwear began operations as Fiber Designs; the name changed four year later.
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
My first job after graduate school was working for a poster gallery/frame shop on King Street. The Torpedo Factory Art Center had just opened. I loved the small community feel of the town with the big city accoutrements -- DC -- just down the road. Also, Alexandrians are a sophisticated group of people who appreciate quality goods.
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
Imagine Artwear is a collection of 100% handcrafted, made in North America clothing, jewelry, accessories, gifts and home furnishings. The eclectic nature of the gallery is the result of twenty years of searching the best craft markets in the country. The artists represented at Imagine love what they do and it shows.
Name one artist that you think everyone should check out.
Just about everyone who shops at Imagine regularly owns one or more Kathleen Haggerty jackets. Kathleen visited the shop just recently and we're planning to put together another visit this fall when she'll bring new styles and fabrics. Collectors will recognize pieces by Judith Bird, Maralyce Ferree, Sally Ryan, Lee Andersen, Kathleen Weir-West, Hopestone Studio and many more.
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
A new line of fleece garments by Janska, sweaters from Margaret Winters and Amy Brill, and a great line of wool coats from Colortura. -- it's going to be another cold winter!
Can people follow you on Facebook, Twitter, or any other media?
Yes, Imagine Artwear can be found on Facebook.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Get a behind-the-scenes look at La Muse with owner Debra Monahan.
How did you get the idea for opening a store like La Muse?
When I was younger I wanted to open a Hallmark store. I very much enjoy watching people thoughtfully pick out cards and gifts for loved ones and the simple act of kindness involved in that process. Over the years the thought for the store evolved in my head and there were two key concepts that came forward: 1. The store should help support American artisans and 2. It should be filled with things that would inspire, intrigue and amuse people. My goal is that people walk out of La Muse just a little bit happier than when they come in. If La Muse can put a smile on someone’s face or affect them in a positive way then we’ve done our job.
When my husband and I moved to Old Town Alexandria in February of 2005 I knew I had found the final ingredient to turn the thoughts that were in my head into a reality.
What attracted you to Old Town Alexandria?
The many people that visit from all over the world, it’s conduciveness to walking, the feeling of community, it’s dog friendliness and, of course, it’s charm.
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
The store is filled with the work and designs of over 60 different artists.
Name one artist that you think everyone should check out.
Leigh Standley of Curly Girl Design. She is, by far, my best selling artist. Within her body of work there are numerous quotes and designs that every lady can relate to. She’s a kind, fun and wonderful person and that shows through in her work. You can check her out on my website in the Curly Girl Design section. She will be visiting La Muse on October 9th from 11-3 to meet with and sign work for her fans in the DC area. Mark the calendar now and get all your ‘girlfriend’ Christmas shopping done in one day!!
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
We’ve recently added Kelly Rae Roberts and Mary Anne Radmacher to our collection of artists. The dvb New York collection of jewelry by Laurel Elliott continues to grow and is our best selling jewelry line. She produces meaningful engraved sterling silver jewelry at wonderful price points.
Can you tell us about your charitable programs?
The store sends monthly packages to our troops overseas through the AnySoldier.com program and we encourage the community to drop items off that we will happily pack and mail. More about the program can be found on our website. Over the last year we’ve donated time, talent and/or money to 4Paws Rescue, The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, Susan G Komen, The City of Alexandria Holiday Sharing Program, Senior Services of Alexandria, Inova Hospital, The Fund for Alexandria’s Child, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and over 30 other worthy organizations. Personally I volunteer for Meals on Wheels and the Arlington Food Assistance Center. Giving back to the community plays a central role in my life and La Muse.
Can people follow you on Facebook, Twitter, or any other media?
I encourage people to follow us on Facebook for the latest specials, deals and news. I also have a blog and send a newsletter throughout the year.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Arts Afire Glass Gallery with owner Joe Edgerton.
What makes your shop Handcrafted?
We feature the handcrafted works of over 400 American artisans from all over the United States. Everything in the gallery is handcrafted, and we are fortunate enough to have many artists who show their work exclusively. Our customers nearly always exclaim: “I’ve never seen work like this”…where do you find it?”
Name one artisan that you think everyone should check out.
Of all the artisans we feature, I would say: Tom Stoenner’s blown vases, lamps and drinking glasses. They are not only remarkable, but most affordable. Tom was a weaver before becoming a glass blower, and all his work incorporates a wonderful thread-like motif which is very unique.
What attracted you to Old town Alexandria?
The history, the charm, its gentile attitude and its proximity to so many wonderful venues all within 100 miles of center city. I think Old Town has remained a quality historic city without being spoiled by encroaching influences from Washington as has Georgetown.
Does your store have any upcoming special events or programs?
Yes! July 2010 marks our 15th Anniversary Celebration. Plans are in the works for exciting events. We have at least 6 major artist shows every year (checkout our Calendar of Events on our website) as well as a Kaleidoscope Show every September, where internationally famous artists come with spectacular new works recently created. There’s always something exciting going on at Arts Afire.
Are there any new items to be on the lookout for?
As you can imagine with all the wonderful artists we represent, something new arrives daily. Our fantastic selection of glass flame-worked beads keeps customers entertained for hours at a time. The artistry incorporated in our bead selection is not only varied, but offers so many choices and price points that there’s literally something affordable for everybody. Jewelry lovers pop in regularly, in hopes of seeing new arrivals that are being catalogued by our staff. Often, customers want to purchase pieces before we’ve even displayed them…right off the counter.
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