We're all thumbs (some black) so we're that much more impressed by those who have the patience and skill to create beautiful things. Felt Club, the subject of this week's feature story in the Los Angeles Times Home & Garden section, could be described as "Etsy on steroids," an annual showcase for what's best in the growing world of crafts. If you're thinking of doing it yourself, you might want to consider something with a butterfly or rose motif, two of the big upcoming trends in home decor. Of course, being in Los Angeles, you might be at a disadvantage; the chilly winters that plague the cities served by our other sites invite time at home, spending hours honing your craft. Unless you're an architect. Then, like Grant Kirkpatrick, you design your home and decorate it yourself too. Link, pics and more, after the jump...
Felt Club's Big Show: The Felt Club show, an annual event which has grown from 12 vendors in 2006 to 144 booths last Sunday, drew about 4,500 people. It's a chance for the growng community of Los Angeles area crafters to get together and sell their wares to the public. Here, the highlights, a look at some of crafting's stars and at this growing movement. We're putting it on our calendar now for next year.
Butterfly art wings its way into home decor: Perhaps it's the idea of change that they represent, but butterflies are growing in popularity as a motif in home decor. Here, a look at some examples. (Funny, we've been thinking about butterflies a lot too, and have been eyeing these simple mountable butterflies made by Koko Studios, one of our curees, on the Cure's Flickr page.)
Rose themes pop up in home furniture: Roses are another increasingly popular trend in home decor. We think rose patterned fabrics are especially appealing and like their soft romantic contrast with modern or rustic pieces.
Architect Grant Kirkpatrick's Manhattan Beach home blurs the line between indoors and out: With our sunny climes, we've the option to live half outdoors all year round. The best homes take full advantage of this, like this example of his own work by Kirkpatrick, principal of KAA Design group. (Don't miss slide 9, our dream feature in a bathroom.)
[images: Stefano Paltera for LA Times; Stefano Paltera for LA Times; Al Seib for LA Times; Al Seib for LA Times; Ken Hively for LA Times]
I forgot to check it out this year, and it took place blocks from my apartment! Oh well, I look forward to next year. I went a few years ago and it was really fun!
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