Ahhh, Spring is here! That means the "crafty" season has begun! I have always loved strolling through a craft fair marveling at the wonderful things created by true artisans. Now that I am one of those "crafty" folks, most weekends I am somewhere out selling my wares. But, I have a hard time staying behind my booth. I am still interested in checking out other vendors' creations.

One thing that draws me to a table are the displays. I particularly love when artists choose unconventional objects. Interesting displays are always an eye-catcher, and I took a few pictures while I was at a craft fair last weekend.

Kam, who owns Kamspots had an interesting display for her ceramic hanging planters. First of all, her planters could have been displayed on a paper plate, and still gotten a second look (they are absolutely beautiful!) I was intrigued by the display, and she told me that it was a towel rack...yes like the rack in your bathroom...That's what I call creative!

Angela Colombo, designer and creator of EnchantraGirl injected a bit of nature into her display. Turning a bit of driftwood into something to showcase her delicate bracelets, was a smart move. It is a nice change from the black velvet busts that so often adorn a jewelers craft table.

Lisa LeClaire of Lisa LeClaire Designs highlighted her jewelry with some colorful shot glasses. They were the perfect fit for her eye-catching, sparkly jewelry. Her entire table was shining, and it was hard not to take a second look!

And finally, a little creativeness from Nordea Soaperie (yes, that would be me!) I had a hard time figuring out how to display my lavender sachets. I embroider each design by hand, and didn't want to throw them in a box. I found this display meant for cupcakes! It was perfect because each design can be seen, so customers can check out all of the designs without sifting through a box!

Remember that the annual Spring Handmade Cavalcade is coming up in a couple of weeks (May 4th.) I would bet that there will be a lot of creative displays to be seen. Of course it goes without saying that those displays will be showcasing some wonderul crafts too! Hope to see you there!

Until next time....happy crafting!

Nordea / nordeasoaperie

Valentine’s Day has come and gone. This doesn’t mean that it is too late to show a little love. Treat yourself to a relaxing day at the spa by creating one in your own bathroom!

Nothing is better than a warm bath at the end of the day. Lavender is used in aromatherapy to relax the mind and spirit... especially helpful for a good night's sleep. Salts are known to detoxify and soften the skin. Adding salts to the bath water can make this “me time” extra special. Here is a nice and easy recipe for lavender-scented bath salts:

½ cup Epsom or sea salt
¼ cup baking soda
2 Tbsp lavender buds
20 drops of lavender essential oil

Mix all of the ingredients together in a glass bowl and transfer to a mason jar.

Use ¼ - 1/2 cup of the mixture and add to warm bath water.

Breathe deeply, release the day and relax!

-Nordea
Nordea's Soaperie

Thinking outside the box...

Pamper Yourself!