BLOG : HANDMADE

David Lynch’s Box

By Tom Ran

Published: June 3, 2010 under Handmade

Keepsake box made for a friend by David Lynch

Photo: David Lynch

The little things you find out about a person through twitter can be incredibly mundane or surprisingly enlightening. Take @DAVID_LYNCH for instance. The man who is best known as a director is also a visual artist dabbling in painting, photography, illustrations and builds lamps and boxes for friends on the weekends. He recently shared a couple photos of his handy work, including the beautiful keepsake box shown above. Mr. Lynch, the next time you’re in NY may we interview you?

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Berea College Crafts

By Tom Ran

Published: January 13, 2010 under Handmade

Right: Various handmade brooms Left: Skittles Game

Photo: Berea College

In the small town of Berea, Kentucky resides a liberal arts college known for it’s unorthodox methods of operation. Though the college was founded in 1855, it’s socially and environmentally conscious approach are quite progressive. Housing includes an Ecovillage comprising of 50 apartments with an emphasis on sustainability. Tuition is completely free, students are however required to work 10 hours a week. Work that include producing crafts using traditional techniques dating back to the history of the region. Woodcraft, weaving and ceramics are all part of the duties, producing products that are then sold to the public. We have a great appreciation for their handcrafted items, even something as simple as a broom can be so profound to us. Learn more about Berea College and visit their shop.

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Herriott Grace

By Tom Ran

Published: December 8, 2009 under Handmade

Herriott Grace baby spoons made from black walnut

Photo: Herriott Grace

A spoon is just a spoon and nothing more. A Herriott Grace spoon on the other hand is a functional piece of art where its beauty supersedes its purpose. Nikole Herriott started her business with her father after receiving care packages that included hand-carved spoons. Her understanding and appreciation of the craft prompted her to launch this venture. Herriott Grace is exclusively sold online, offered in its catalog are spoons, bowls, plates, boards and rolling pins, all hand-carved and hand-turned by her father, Lance Herriott. Many of the items are sold out, however the site will be updated again today at 10am EST. Thank you Kelly for the lead.

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FEATURES

The Mast Brothers

By Tom Ran
Michael Mast and Rick Mast of Mast Brothers Chocolate

Photo: Mindy Best

The Mast Brothers Chocolate factory occupies only three rooms in a nondescript building in Williamsburg. The first doubles as a storefront that opens on the weekend to customers with much…

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Roman & Williams Studio Visit

By Tom Ran
Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch in their studio

Photo: Rose Callahan

The partners behind Roman & Williams, Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch are anti minimalists. It’s apparent in the spaces they create.

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Billykirk Studio Visit

By Tom Ran
Chris and Kirk Bray of Billykirk

Photo: Rose Callahan

Billykirk’s studio is surrounded by things, equipments, flat files, paintings, photos, and memories.

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