“Words have power! When you say them out loud, your dreams come true!”

These words are from NY Handmade Collective member Satoko Mackler of Satokomatsu. Satoko, who was born and raised in Japan and working for a leading jewelry designer, had a dream to “challenge the world in New York”. After moving to New York in 2013, Satoko began making her own jewelry in 2015. Read more about how her dream is manifesting into reality!

Some start small businesses because they dream of being their own boss or they want to make a living from their passion. Team member Jennifer Velasquez was driven to create The Salvaged Sawhorse after her chronic migraines made it nearly impossible to conform to the 9-6 lifestyle. Inspired by her struggle with basic self-care and self-love, she decided to create tools that helped others like her.

It was on a trip to Montana in 1991 that team member Andrea Turini was first inspired to make jewelry. She spent time exploring different techniques but after purchasing a few hanks of seed beads, she fell in love with beadweaving. Today she shares her passion with others through Andrea Turini Jewelry. Read more about her work below.

Amie Colosa is the founder of Chin Up! Prints where she creates empowering designs for apparel and art with an eco twist! Her beautiful tees and totes give you a boost of confidence to face the day. Find out how she keeps her apparel line sustainable and the importance of intention when running a business.

We are excited to introduce you to self-proclaimed “maker of weird things” Stephanie De John owner of Pop Arts & Crafts! Stephanie incorporates her love of history, science and the macabre to create unique accessories that her customers love. She shared with us her newest design, fascinating facts about young people in the Victorian era and the importance of community in an entrepreneur’s journey.

As so many of us start to ready our homes for the holidays we are excited to introduce new team member Ashley Aranda of Papyrusaurus. Ashley creates one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts for the geek in all of us. The first product she made was her classic book page ornaments nine years ago and it is still a customer favorite! Learn more about her business and her musings on the upcoming holiday season as a business owner.