Travel Report, Part 3

New York, New York
Etsy

My visit to Etsy was both a flash back and a fast forward experience. Here I found the excitement of weaving in the 70’s (when everyone was doing it) coupled with high tech. Here’s their mission statement from their website: “Etsy is an online marketplace for buying and selling all things handmade. Our mission is to enable people to make a living making things, and to reconnect makers with buyers. Our vision is to build a new economy and present a better choice: Buy, Sell, and Live Handmade.” Matthew Stinchcomb vp of marketing, is all about promoting and selling craft on-line, as well as providing support and education to crafters and would-be crafters (including weavers and spinners!) Check it out at http://www.etsy.com/

Etsy's handmade pledge: For the holidays ask for handmade gifts--and give handmade gifts. I love this idea and challege YOU to join in.

5th Avenue
If you can, just spend the day walking up and down 5th Avenue window shopping. There’s so much emphasis right now on wovens—basic plaids, crazy plaids, felted fabric, texture, texture texture! A must stop is Takashimaya, a small, elegant department store filled with unique designs from around the world. Learn more at http://www.ny-takashimaya.com/

The Unicorn Tapestries at the Cloisters

Do plan to spend the day. I took the tour and it was well worth the time. The Cloisters and surrounding Tryon Park are an oasis in the middle of a teaming city. The day felt like a retreat. On a nice day, it’s a treat to eat lunch in the courtyard surrounded by medieval architecture. For more: www.ny.com/museums/cloisters