Getting Christmas Ready with Island Wrapping Co.

As you know I love to share about local, New England-based makers and companies on my blog and today is no different! Bryn from Island Wrapping Co. reached out to me and asked if I’d like to check out her printed North Pole Newspaper wrapping paper and I just couldn’t resist! | This post contains affiliate links and an honest review of product provided by Island Wrapping Co. |

I hate to admit it, but I’m always a procrastinator when it comes to wrapping gifts… I’m always a wait-until-Christmas-Eve wrapper. But this year I’m getting a little jump start with this cute “The North Pole Sun” wrapping paper from Island Wrapping Co, a Massachusetts-based small business on Etsy. These Christmas-themed newspapers are double-sided and contain fun pretend stories, advertisements, a sports section, headlines, birth announcements, etc all Christmas/North Pole themed! These will make wrapping our gifts more fun this year for sure.

If you're looking for some unique and festive wrapping paper this year - or a newspaper for Santa to leave behind ;) - I reccomend checking out Island Wrapping Co. on Etsy.

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- I received this item for review from Island Wrapping Co. but all opinions expressed are my own.  Please see our full Disclosure Policy for more information -   

New England Maker: Early American Painter, Suzanne Carroll Korn

As you know by now, I love sharing about companies and products we love on the blog and our Instagram - and most especially those made right here in New England. It’s been a little while since I’ve done an interview on the blog in our New England Maker Series, but I’m excited to get back into it with Early American Painter, Suzanne Carroll Korn! I first came across Suzanne’s work in my friend Marie’s shop (Here Today Emporium). I loved Suzanne’s colorful and whimsical house portraits, so I bought one of them for our daughter’s room and have been a fan ever since.

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.

My name is Suzanne Carroll Korn and I am an early American painter and folk artist. My inspiration springs from the folk art landscapes, designs, and motifs found on New England’s historic paint-decorated walls. Over 20 years ago, I began researching, studying, and writing about these large and amazing remnants of American folk art… painted in New England between the years 1800-1860. This research allowed me to view and document both landscape muraled and stenciled walls, many of which were the original works of itinerant folk artists like Rufus Porter, Jonathan D. Poor, and Moses Eaton. Through this research, I became a “student” of these iconic American folk artists, and eventually, I began to paint landscapes in the style of Rufus Porter.

Creating scenic and colorful folk art landscapes has given me great joy over the years. When I borrow and blend the early American designs and motifs found on the walls I studied, I like to think that each painting pays tribute to life in the small colonial villages and coastal towns of 19th century New England.

Although I do a lot of painting on canvas, one of my favorite things is to paint on vintage salvage pieces from New England’s past. Old sap buckets, vintage bead board, old cupboard doors, rustic tables, and breadboards from days gone by, all make exquisite “canvases!” There is nothing quite like painting on something wonderfully worn!

In addition to my early American painting, I also enjoy painting in a slightly more modern style that features a bright color palette, minimal landscapes, expressive skies, small cottages, stone churches, farms, and fields of flowers. I love the peaceful spirit of these simple vignettes of rural American life. I am actually looking forward to focusing more on this style in the near future! Who doesn’t need more peace? :)

I just started adding favorite scripture verses to these paintings with the intent of offering scripture cards, note cards, and prints. Hoping such prints and cards will be a source of peace and encouragement for others.

How did you start Early American Painter? Had you been making folk art for a while or was this a new leap for you?

My folk art definitely had it’s genesis in my research and study of early American paint-decorated walls… but the really interesting thing is that up until 11 years ago, I had never painted anything freehand in my life! I had no painting talent at all! - Or so I thought. In 2010, on a whim, I decided to take a class at the Rufus Porter Museum in Bridgton, Maine... “Painting in the style of Rufus Porter.” Never in my wildest dreams did I suspect that my life would change forever from that one experience! With lots of follow up study of Porter’s methodologies, formulas, and designs, and by studying his original murals in homes all over New England, I somehow got to this place of creativity!

It wasn’t until 2015, when I took an early retirement package, did I have the opportunity to really focus on my folk art. A couple of years after retiring, I was able to rent some space at While Home Collections in Wilton, NH. That gave me so much great experience and I learned so much about running my business. I had my “shop” at White Home for 1.5 years, right up until they sadly closed their doors in December of 2018. It was such a privilege displaying and selling my folk art creations at this beautiful landmark shop. I loved meeting many of my clients and becoming friends with them.

These days, I sell a few select pieces at Marie Fortier’s delightful shop Here Today Emporium in Wilton, NH. I also obtain commission work from Instagram and Facebook. Mostly custom landscapes, folk art house portraits, and some painted salvage. Alas, I’m a little behind the times as far as setting up an efficient payment process - so if anyone sees a piece of folk art on my Facebook and/or on Instagram feed, and they are interested in purchasing, I still require a snail-mailed check! I know… I need to get with the times!

What is your favorite part about owning your own company? And least favorite part?

Creativity is my favorite aspect of the business. When painting a folk art landscape, there is a step-by-step methodology that I use... the same methodology that Rufus Porter documented 200 year ago when he was painting huge landscapes on walls! It’s like putting a puzzle together. After backgrounds are done, the super fun part for me is the “decorating!” This is where I get to build out the painting with all the detail… the colonial houses, the trees, the boats, the flowers, the animals, etc. No two paintings are ever alike!

Something else that I love doing is hand-painting colorful tags for all of my folk art. I’ve always said that if the only thing I had to do each day was sit at my drafting table or porch, and paint little tags, I would be content! I can’t tell you how fun and relaxing it is creating these little works of art!

And if inquiring minds need to know - my least favorite aspect of running the business is determining pricing!

What have been some of the most rewarding moments for Early American Painter since you started?

I have been led to many wonderful opportunities, where I could bless others through my folk art. In 2018 and 2019 I was honored to donate landscape paintings in the style of Rufus Porter to the annual Fall Gala events at the American Folk Art Museum in New York City. My pieces were entered in to a silent auction, with all proceeds going towards the continuation of AFAM’s mission to educate and generate enthusiasm about American folk art.

Right here in my town of North Reading, MA, I’ve had several really nice opportunities to give back. At the historic c.1817 David Damon Tavern, I am the “resident” tour guide and Rufus Porter “expert.” When we have Open House at the Damon Tavern, I conduct tours of the amazing second floor ballroom where Rufus Porter, around 1830, painted stunning landscape murals. Also in the Rufus Porter ballroom, I host “Paint Like Porter” fundraising workshops sponsored by the North Reading Historical and Antiquarian Society. Surrounded by the historic landscape murals painted by Porter almost 200 years ago, adult students of all painting abilities learn about the life and times of Rufus Porter and the basic methodologies and techniques he employed to create folk art landscape murals. Each workshop is so much fun… students love this “getaway” day to do something relaxing and creative, and the paintings they each go home with are truly amazing! Students come from all over New England to attend the workshops. With the proceeds from just two of the workshops, the Historical Society had enough money to refinish the incredible 200-year-old wide pine floors in the ballroom!

Over the years, it has also been a great pleasure working with The Center for Painted Wall Preservation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to the research and preservation of 18th and early 19th century American paint-decorated plaster walls. I currently serve on CPWP’s Board of Advisors, and under their auspices, I will occasionally continue my journeys around New England, visiting homes/inns/taverns in order to document historic paint-decorated walls therein. Often we are called in by homeowners to document painted walls that have recently been discovered under layers and layers of wallpaper! I’m so happy that my field research done over the years has been entered into the SPWP’s Digital Archive of Painted Walls. This is a growing database of hundreds of walls, that at some point in the near future will be accessible to anyone interested in these amazing 19th century walls of folk art. The database will ensure that no matter what happens to these precious walls in the field, there will always be a permanent record of the historic folk art found on them.

Last but not least, I’ve always felt blessed to have the best customers ever. It has been so rewarding creating for lots of clients all across the country. Hearing the excitement and gratitude in their voices after they have received their new piece is priceless!

What advice do you have for people just starting out?

Never stop looking for ways to use your gifts and talents to brighten and enhance the lives of others. God will use your abilities and talents in astonishing ways! Find something that you are passionate about… something that you love… something that makes your heart sing… and the rest will come. You will know when you have found your “calling,” because your “work” will never feel like work, and you will see and experience the satisfaction and happiness it brings to others! If what you do brings a smile to your face, plus enriches the life of someone else, what could be better?

What does the future hold for “Early American Painter?”

I see myself continuing to create custom folk art pieces for my clients. However, I also want to focus on painting more of my “minimal” landscapes, and working on ways to incorporate inspiring scripture verses and messages into them. I’m not quite sure what that will end up looking like, but I do feel a leading in this direction. I see an Etsy shop in my future, and have even started designing it. Time will tell! In the meantime, I will be enjoying the creative life in North Reading with my husband Rich, and canine sidekick, Alice.

Who’s one of your favorite New England Makers?

One of my favorite New England Makers is Raffaella Gutermann, from Dolce Amar Bakery and Cafe in Groton, MA. Raffaella is an artist in the truest sense of the word - only her stunning “paintings” are on canvases of cake and other sweet confections! European designer cakes for weddings and other special events are her specialty. Raffaella’s creations are always the embodiment of elegance, beauty, and exquisite taste!

Keep Up with Early American Painter, Suzanne Carroll Korn

| Website | Facebook | Instagram | Shop a selection of items in person at Here Today Emporium in Wilton, NH |

All photos courtsey of Early American Painter, Suzanne Carroll Korn

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DO YOU OWN A NEW ENGLAND-BASED BUSINESS AND WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING INTERVIEW?  OR WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN HAVING ME STYLE, REVIEW, AND FEATURE ONE OF YOUR PRODUCTS?  
Please drop me a note.  

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More Interviews from New England Makers:

New England Maker: Mermaids + Madeleines

As you know by now, I love sharing about companies and products we love on the blog and our Instagram - and most especially those made right here in New England. It’s been a little while since I’ve done an interview on the blog in our New England Maker Series, but I’m excited to get back into it with Heather of Mermaids + Madeleines!

Heather Auclair of Mermaids + Madeleines is best known for her coastal-inspired handmade jewelry and fun watercolors. 5% of each purchase is donated to aid in sea life rescue and rehabilitation efforts - I just love a company that gives back!

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your business.

I’m Heather, a native of Maine, currently living life in Massachusetts with my husband and two rescue kitties. I’ve always enjoyed creating art. Whether it’s drawing, painting, crafting, or designing jewelry. I’m happiest when I’m making something,. I was lucky to grow up in a creative family and community by the ocean. I don’t think I realized how special it was until moving away. Mermaids + Madeleines is inspired by the ever-changing color and light of the coast. We’re so lucky in New England to have such a fascinating coastline. From place-to-place, no location is exactly alike in looks or atmosphere. Each spot has its own little charm and I find that totally uplifting. I try to capture this mix of joy and sense of ease in my works.

How did you start Mermaids + Madeleines? Had you been making jewelry for awhile or was this a new leap for you?

Mermaids + Madeleines started at a friend’s kitchen table (Hi Dana). We were both working at our own full-time jobs and not necessarily feeling completely fulfilled by them. What started as a creative/craft night once a week slowly bloomed into our own side businesses. I had always made some kind of jewelry, I think it started with embroidery floss bracelets at recess in grade school, and slowly morphed into beaded things. I kind of ebbed and flowed back into it after I started a program for advertising design at RISD. I took an elective in jewelry design and light metals and fell in love with it all over again. I quickly changed my concentration and began learning some benchwork skills, design, and technical drawing. I was lucky enough to land a job in commercial jewelry before graduating. First, starting out in costume jewelry and working my way over to find jewelry. While it’s great being able to pursue an interest and find a job that will pay you for it, to me, it just doesn’t come with the same creative freedom, or feel as rewarding as doing your own thing.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I try my best to start each day with some kind of movement, even if it’s only for 15-20 minutes, a barre class, a quick yoga, tabata, - something to get my mind and body moving first thing helps me to be more present and engaged the rest of the day. After having way too many nearly all-nighters for someone that is no longer in their 20’s I’ve started to try to be better about balancing work days and using the time I have. Mondays I do the (for me) dreaded stuff - like filling out inventory sheets, entering receipts, and ordering materials if needed. Tuesday and Wednesday, I like to use as creative days to design and fulfill orders, Thursday is usually a catch-up day for anything that can’t wait until the next week and straightening out the usual creative explosion I’ve created Tuesday and Wednesday. I run my little micro-business out of our (still functional) spare bedroom in our apartment so Friday-Sunday I try to keep my artsplosions to a minimum so it’s presentable for guests.

What is your favorite part about owning your own company? And least favorite part?

My very favorite part is when a customer reaches out, tags me in a post, or leaves a sweet review or message that the piece they received was exactly what they had been looking for, either as a gift or a treat for themselves. Being able to bring joy and happiness to someone through something you’ve made is one of the best feelings. In general, so far, I’ve loved owning my own business a little more than I expected to. It challenges me in ways I didn’t expect, and has forced me to learn and begin developing skills in areas I would have naturally been able to avoid, continuing to only work for someone else. Having said that, there are definitely aspects that aren’t my favorite. Logging inventory, dealing with accounting, and staring at spreadsheets isn’t really my cup of tea. If that were someone else’s job it would be way more fun, but I do think there’s a lot of value in gaining understanding about these less enjoyable parts of owning a business.

What has been the most exciting moment for Mermaids + Madeleines since you started?

I don’t know if I can pick just one exciting moment. I feel like there have been several. The first sale on Etsy, first show, first wholesale order. Finally receiving official paperwork in the mail - making things seem a little more real. There really is a moment or something to be excited about every day, even when it’s something small.

What advice do you have for people just starting out?

My advice is something that everyone says, and it’s the hardest advice to take: “Just start.” It’s so intimidating to put yourself out there. You’ll want everything to be perfect before it’s in front of people, and you can live forever in the phase of “it’s almost ready,” if you’re not careful. It’s easy to hide behind “not yet” but it won’t help you or your business grow. Plus, if you launch while you’re still building it gives you space and room to iterate, and alter without being too deeply invested in something that the market may not have interest in.

What is your long-term goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would love to continue building the brand and create an independent website, not just relying on Etsy for sales (though I’m very grateful to that platform). I’d also like to branch into more art and accessories and eventually expand into more wholesale as well - working with small boutiques up and down the coast.

Who’s one of your favorite New England Makers?

I have so many favorite makers... all for different reasons, it's hard to pick just one, so I'll have to share the two that helped my business get started. Dana of Dana Kristen Creates was instrumental in the start of my maker journey with our Thursday night hangouts and continues to be an awesome friend and creative! Alana, of A&E Stoneworks was also pivotal in getting me to make that Etsy shop go live! I met her at an event and she encouraged me to just go for it. There have been, and continue to be so many I'm grateful for, including: Mary of On The Road Again, Lynn from Love Lissy Lou, Rachel from Little Lavender Lobster, Christine from Sea Crow Company, and Marie from Pieces of Maine Jewelry, and so many more... I could probably fill your entire blog post with names!

Keep Up with Mermaids + Madeleines

| Website | Etsy Shop | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest |

All photos courtesy of Mermaids + Madeleines

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DO YOU OWN A NEW ENGLAND-BASED BUSINESS AND WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING INTERVIEW?  OR WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN HAVING ME STYLE, REVIEW, AND FEATURE ONE OF YOUR PRODUCTS?  
Please drop me a note.  

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More Interviews from New England Makers:

Coming to ACK 4170 on Nantucket!

So excited to have some of my custom ornaments heading down to ACK 4170, a beautiful gift shop located on the island of Nantucket! They are currently closed for the winter, but in the meantime you can shop their store online and then in-person again when they reopen for the season in April.

I wish I could mail myself down there with the ornaments - I haven’t been to Nantucket (yet) but have always wanted to visit!

Masks by New England Makers

We’re definitely living in different times right now… and it’s becoming clearer that it looks as though we will have to co-exist with this virus for the foreseeable future. Because of that anything we can do that might mitigate the risk of virus transmission, like always wearing face masks or face coverings when outside our homes, are becoming a part of our “new normal.” Today a lot of small businesses are hurting, including small local makers, many of whom have pivoted to also offer masks for sale. As we move forward into our new normal, consider supporting a local maker and purchase masks from them.
| This post is not sponsored or an endorsement. Makers are listed in no particular order and I plan to continue to add to this list as I come across more makers who request to be added. |

Masks by New England Makers

Disclaimer: I am not giving medical advice. Make sure to always consult the CDC and local health officials for up-to-date recommendations. These masks are not considered medical grade and should be washed in between each use… please see each individual mask maker regarding details, care instructions, pricing, and current availability.

Scrub Caps for Scholars

| Shop Masks and Scrub Caps by Scrub Caps for Scholars |

Scrub Caps for Scholars is an Etsy shop recently started by Marissa of One CrafDIY Girl (who’s also an ICU nurse in Massachusetts) looking to give back to frontline nurses who are struggling to pay their student loans. Proceeds from sales of masks and scrub caps will go towards that fund. Masks are available in different styles in child through adult sizes with different fabrics to choose from; there are also some matching scrub caps available too.

Masked in Style

| Shop Masks by Masked in Style (Order requests via Facebook Page) |

Nicole has created 615+ masks so far - including donations to local businesses and healthcare workers across the country. She has many fabrics to choose from, with masks in tie and elastic styles. (*If there's an essential worker you want to surprise with a free cloth mask, send her a message and she will send it out with a thank you note!)

Think Greene

| Shop Masks by Think Greene |

Think Greene is a Maine-based company best known for their eco-friendly items and apparel. They are offering boldly designed masks in adult and kid sizes made with organic cotton. Masks are tie-style.

Singer Vintage

| Shop Masks by Singer Vintage |

Singer Vintage is a Maine-based Etsy stop, which normally sells vintage sewing machine parts, but now offers a wide variety of summer-inspired masks (gingham, chambray, lobsters, etc) in different styles and sizes.

Little Green Pear

| Shop Masks by Little Green Pear (Etsy shop temporarily closed, please order through direct message on Facebook or Instagram) |

Little Green Pear is run by a Vermont-based mom and best known for hair bows and baby accessories, but is now offering a variety of masks in different styles, fabric patterns, and sizes from toddler through adult.

Maine Mom Boutique

| Shop Masks by Maine Mom Boutique |

Maine Mom Boutique is a highly-rated shop on Etsy, best known for baby-related items, now offering elastic loop style masks for adults in a variety of fabric patterns.

Sea Crow Company

| Shop Masks by Sea Crow Company |

Maine-based Sea Crow Co. is best known for their popular colorful bags and accessories and is now offering masks too. Masks are pleated-style and available in a variety of fabric patterns and in both ear loop and tie options (child sizes are available upon request).

Miss Harlow VT

| Shop Masks by Miss Harlow VT (Order via Google Form) |

Miss Harlow VT is a Vermont-based crafter best known for her sewn baby items and gifts and is now offering masks as well in many different fabrics, in both child and adult sizes. To date she has made over 500!

Jackie’s Boutique

| Shop Masks from Jackie's Boutique (Website currently under construction but can order on Facebook) |

Jackie’s Boutique are two “brick and mortar” shops located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire known for resort wear and accessories. Right now they are also offering masks with vintage Lake Winnipesaukee map patterns on them. The fabric is made and printed in New England.

The Artsy Fox

| Shop Masks by The Artsy Fox (Request order via Facebook Group) |

The Artsy Fox is New Hampshire-based and known for crocheted and knit items as well as quilted items, and is now also offering masks in different patterns too.

Two Little Beans & Co.

| Shop Masks by Two Little Beans & Co. |

Two Little Beans & Co. is a Maine-based company best known for their baby booties, bibs, and other baby items but is now also offering ear loop style pleated masks in many fabric options, in both kid and adult sizes. She has also been making mask donations for healthcare and frontline workers. (*There is a tutorial on her website if you’re looking for instructions to make your own mask.)

We Fill Good.

| Shop Masks from We Fill Good |

We Fill Good is an eco-friendly shop in Kittery, Maine known for selling reusable products that can help you achieve a low-waste household. Right now they are also offering masks in a variety of fabric pattern options in both adult and kid sizes.

Red House VT

| Waitlist for Red House VT Masks |

Red House VT is best known for their waxed canvas and leather bags and are now offering simple modern style masks, currently as a wait-list item.

- All photos used with permission -

If you are a New England Maker who is also making masks and would like to be added to this list, please send me a message and I would love to add you. Thank you all for your hard work to help keep our communities a little safer.

Disclaimer: I am not giving medical advice or endorsing any particular seller - purchase at your own risk. Make sure to always consult the CDC and local health officials for up-to-date recommendations. These masks are not considered medical grade and should be washed in between each use… please see each individual mask maker regarding details, care instructions, pricing, and current availability.

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Related Posts:

• Cloth Face Mask Organization and Storage

• General Emergency Preparedness Tips and Ideas

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Interviews from New England Makers:

$10 Credit at Sailormade

| This is post is part of a Partnership and contains affiliate links |

Summer is just around the corner and you can’t go wrong with nautically-inspired jewelry to compliment any outfit. If you’re on the hunt for some, definitely check out Massachusetts-based company Sailormade. Sailormade is best known for their Brummel Bracelets but have a wide variety of jewelry, accessories, and gifts to make you feel like you’re right on the Cape. Before you shop, click my link below to get a $10 Credit applied to your order:

{ CLICK HERE FOR $10 OFF AT SAILORMADE }

- All photos used with permission from Sailormade -

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Calling all Massachusetts-Based Makers!

I'm looking for up-and-coming Massachusetts based makers and crafters.  Please feel free to tag your favorites in the comments or shoot me an email with links!  Thank you.