I really like to be connected–to be aware of other people in the world, how they’re doing, what they’re doing. But what I like even more than being connected to people is being able to have a positive impact, however small. The handmade global-community gives us a way to help each other. And so, with that in mind, today’s feature is about three creative people living in Santiago, Chile. Not long after the tragedy in Haiti, an even bigger one struck in Chile. In Santiago, the nation’s capital, the people have suffered enormous loss. They need the global community to get involved, to lend a hand, to pay attention.
These little kitties might look sweet, but in dreams cat’s represent feminine strength. In Moira’s shop cronopia6 you’ll find Matruskyas, pirates, brooches, and baby things, but these colorful cats are my favorites. Meow—I mean—Miau! She also runs specials where you can get one of these little kitties for free with a purchase of another item from her shop.
Natalia Saldias makes these pretty earrings with horse hair and silver, which is a traditional South American technique. Her designs are all so intricate, and each one is a unique and creative expression.
Christina of ethnicdesign fashions these scarves using a free form technique. I can appreciate that since I’ve basically been using the garter stitch for my entire knitting career. I like the idea that you don’t have to follow the rules to get something beautiful. It’s a bit like fiber joyeria.
There are certainly other ways to help Chile recover from this tragedy, but we can support these local sellers, and perhaps by doing so our love will trickle out to the rest of the country, to all of the people who are struggling with destruction and loss. I believe that the human spirit is strong, and that Chile will heal itself–but I also know for certain that they can not do it without us. So spread the love, and support Chile.





