There is a distinct longing in our economically wobbly world for the comfort of handmade, individual, locally sourced goods, especially from the younger crowd. It’s not even re-cycling to them, it’s up-cycling or re-purposing.

Of course it’s the words that are new, not the concept. I have crafty cousins who have been making jewelry, cabinet hardware, and crosses for years out of discarded silverware, doorknobs, wire, beads, etc. They are just intensely creative folks; it was never a cultural malaise like that which is building now, a backlash against outsourcing and carbon footprints, which is elegantly epitomized in etsy.com.

Woof! He’s just the kind of dog I need, or the inspiration for a summer project! Handmade, vintage, or supplies for the making thereof–that’s all you’ll find on etsy. Plus lots of nice folks! You will be amazed at the artistry and breadth of this site. I’ve found beef jerky, jewelry made from sea glass, and a graphic artist to re-do my logo. The Twilight and Manga jewelry delight my 15 year old daughter, and I’ve found a way to get rid of my husband’s pack rat collections without using the landfill!