Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast

Welcome to Episode 96 of Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast! This week, Joleen catches everyone up on exciting studio projects, including preparations for her upcoming Whatnot shop, before sitting down with ceramic artist and educator Rachelle Miller. Together they chat about developing your artistic voice, finding inspiration through color and pattern, embracing mistakes as part of the creative process, and why making with your hands helps us grow as artists—and as people. Whether you work in clay, paper, fabric, or paint, this conversation is full of encouragement to keep creating, experimenting, and sharing your work with the world.

Guest Bio

Rachelle Miller is a Madison, Wisconsin-based ceramic artist and educator creating functional and sculptural pottery inspired by mid-century modern design. Known for her bold geometric patterns, layered monoprint techniques, and vibrant color palettes, Rachelle combines wheel throwing, hand-building, and printmaking to create one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. She also teaches ceramics at Madison College and co-hosts the Altered Potters Podcast.

Follow Rachelle

• Website
• Instagram

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 03:59] – Welcome Back & Choosing Optimism
[04:00 – 11:14] – Preparing for Whatnot: Art Supplies, Handmade Goods & Vintage Finds
[11:15 – 14:29] – Meet Ceramic Artist Rachelle Miller
[14:30 – 19:29] – Finding Your Artistic Voice Through Clay
[19:30 – 28:59] – Monoprinting, Surface Design & Layering Techniques
[29:00 – 38:59] – Color Theory, Creativity & Trusting Your Eye
[39:00 – 47:59] – Favorite Tools & Getting Started with Ceramics
[48:00 – 52:59] – Workshops, Art Tours & Where to Find Michelle
[53:00 – 1:02:59] – Creative Inspiration & Favorite Art Books
[1:03:00 – End] – Happy Time Questions: Creativity, Growth & Sandwiches

Quotes from the Episode

"Creativity is a muscle. The more you practice it and the more you stretch it, the stronger and more comfortable you become." — Joleen Emery
"The people who my work is for get really excited because they'll say they've never seen work like this before. As an artist, that's the best thing you can hear." — Rachelle Miller
"You are not growing unless you're making mistakes and failing. In order to grow, you have to do hard stuff." — Rachelle Miller
"I always tell my students: You don't learn to play the violin in one lesson. You won't learn to throw pottery on the wheel in one lesson either." — Rachelle Miller
"The one hat I never take off is being an artist. It's how I see the world and how I solve problems." — Joleen Emery
"My gift is taking something complicated, breaking it into manageable parts, and making it accessible so other people can create it too." — Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

Mentioned by Rachel

• Instagram: @handsinclaymadison
• Lake Loop Art Tour (Madison, WI)
• Shaller Gallery (Michigan) – Geometric Ceramics Exhibition
• Madison College Ceramics Program
• Altered Potters Podcast

Mentioned by Joleen

• Whatnot marketplace for art supplies, handmade goods, vintage finds, and creative kits
• Collage Ideas Book by Alena Hennessy
• Northern Clay Center (Minnesota)
• Mason Stains (ceramic colorants)
• Silhouette cutting machine
• Cricut cutting machine

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Welcome to Episode 95 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast! In this special demonstration episode, Joleen walks viewers through the basics of indoor cyanotype printing, making this beautiful photographic process approachable for beginners. She explains the essential supplies, demonstrates how to mix cyanotype chemicals, apply emulsion to paper, and prepare prints without relying on perfect weather or outdoor sunlight. Along the way, she shares inspiring examples of cyanotype projects on paper and fabric, from botanical prints to tote bags and mixed-media artwork. The main takeaway? Cyanotype printing is easier than it looks, and the best way to learn is to jump in, experiment, and have fun with the process.

Guest Bio

No guest this week! This is a special solo teaching episode featuring Joleen sharing her cyanotype process, favorite materials, and practical tips for getting started with this magical art form.

Follow Joleen

• Website
• Instagram

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 02:59] – Welcome + What Is Cyanotype Printing?
[03:00 – 07:59] – Examples of Finished Cyanotype Projects
[08:00 – 10:59] – Paper vs. Fabric: Different Results Explained
[11:00 – 14:59] – Advanced Cyanotype Possibilities (Masks, Turmeric & More)
[15:00 – 17:59] – Supplies You'll Need to Get Started
[18:00 – 20:59] – Bostick & Sullivan Cyanotype Chemistry Overview
[21:00 – 23:59] – Mixing Solution A & Solution
[24:00 – 27:59] – Choosing Brushes & Non-Reactive Tools
[28:00 – 31:59] – Applying Emulsion to Watercolor Paper
[32:00 – 35:59] – Working with Premium Papers
[36:00 – 39:59] – Creative Emulsion Techniques & Brush Effects
[40:00 – 42:59] – Drying, Storage & Beginner Tips
[43:00 – End] – Final Encouragement + Start Experimenting!

Quotes from the Episode

“Not every cyanotype that you print is a slam dunk, and that’s okay.” — Joleen Emery
“I like using people and greenery together—it creates such interesting stories in the prints.” — Joleen Emery
“The best way to learn is to start experimenting and see what happens.” — Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

💙 Bostick & Sullivan Cyanotype Kit – Joleen's preferred source for classic cyanotype chemistry, including Solution A and Solution B.

🎨 Materials Mentioned
✨ 140 lb Watercolor Paper
✨ Strathmore Fine Art Paper
✨ Muslin Fabric
✨ Tote Bags
✨ Botanical Elements (wheat, asparagus, leaves, flowers)

🖌️ Tools Mentioned
✨ Non-reactive mixing bowl
✨ Plastic makeup brush
✨ Foam brush with wooden handle
✨ Distilled water

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Welcome to Episode 94 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast! In this colorful and inspiration-filled episode, Joleen shares creative updates from the farm, including cyanotype printing on unconventional materials, portable embroidery projects, reverse appliqué apparel, and new ideas for the Big Raven Farm gift shop. She’s then joined by Minnesota artist and designer Marlo Graham, whose vibrant work blends cityscapes, storytelling, nostalgia, and bold color palettes inspired by everyday life. Together, they explore creativity, finding inspiration in ordinary moments, and the role color plays in shaping emotion and connection. The takeaway? Creativity is everywhere—you just have to stay curious enough to notice it.

Guest Bio

Marlo Graham is a Minnesota-based artist and designer known for her colorful, whimsical artwork inspired by cityscapes, architecture, everyday moments, and nostalgic memories. A graduate of Pratt Institute with a background in interior design, Marlo combines bold color palettes, playful compositions, and thoughtful storytelling to create uplifting artwork that celebrates community, creativity, and joy.

Follow Marlo

• Website
• Instagram
• Etsy

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 01:59] – Welcome + Summer Creative Updates
[02:00 – 05:59] – Cyanotype Printing on Tea Bags
[06:00 – 09:5] – Portable Embroidery Projects & Creative Happiness
[10:00 – 13:59] – Vintage Girl Scout Treasure Discovery
[14:00 – 17:59] – Reverse Appliqué Sweatshirts & Gift Shop Updates
[18:00 – 20:59] – New Cyanotype Apparel Experiments
[21:00 – 23:59] – Introducing Marlo Graham
[24:00 – 28:59] – Marlo’s Creative Journey & Interior Design Background
[29:00 – 34:59] – Color Theory, Cityscapes & Storytelling
[35:00 – 40:59] – Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life
[41:00 – 47:59] – Nostalgia, Community & Artistic Voice
[48:00 – 54:59] – Building a Creative Career
[55:00 – End] – Final Thoughts + Encouragement for Makers

Quotes from the Episode

“It doesn’t have to have a purpose other than making you happy.” — Joleen Emery
“I don’t believe in garbage—I believe in possibilities.” — Joleen Emery
“Sometimes the best projects start with simply trying something you’ve never done before.” — Joleen Emery
“Creativity is often about being willing to experiment until something works.” — Joleen Emery
“I love using color to create emotion and tell stories.” — Marlo Graham
“Inspiration is everywhere when you pay attention to the details around you.” — Marlo Graham
“I’m drawn to nostalgic subjects because they connect people through shared memories.” — Marlo Graham
“There isn’t a bad color—I just try to use them all.” — Marlo Graham

Resources and Links

🏡 Big Raven Farm Retreats – Cyanotype, eco-printing, art journaling, and mixed-media creative experiences.
🎨 Marlo Graham Art – Explore Marlo’s colorful cityscapes, nostalgic illustrations, and design work inspired by architecture and everyday life.

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Welcome to Episode 93 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast! In this creativity-packed episode, Joleen shares recent studio adventures, including upcycled apparel made from her grandmother’s quilts, creative solutions to unexpected fabric mishaps, cyanotype collage experiments, tea bag printing, and innovative ways to repurpose everyday materials. She also introduces guest Madelyne Adams of Good Letters Design, a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans graphic design, hand lettering, and murals. The episode celebrates creative problem-solving, embracing experimentation, and finding new possibilities in materials that others might overlook. The big takeaway? Creativity thrives when we stay curious, adapt when things go wrong, and give ourselves permission to play.

Guest Bio

Madelyne Adams is the artist and designer behind Good Letters Design, where she combines hand lettering, graphic design, illustration, and mural work to create vibrant, meaningful artwork. Her creative practice blends traditional and digital techniques, helping brands, businesses, and communities tell stories through thoughtful design and custom lettering.

Follow Madelyne

• Website
• Instagram
• Substack

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 07:59] – Welcome + Summer Updates
[08:00 – 11:59] – Saving a Project After Fabric Bleeding Mishaps
[12:00 – 16:59] – Cyanotype Collage Experiments
[17:00 – 22:59] – Using Masks & Reverse Negatives in Cyanotypes
[23:00 – 26:59] – Repurposing Packaging & Found Materials
[27:00 – 30:59] – Tiny Cyanotype Prints on Tea Bags
[31:00 – 36:59] – Art Journaling, Layers & Creative Recipes
[37:00 – 38:59] – Introducing Madelyne Adams
[39:00 – 44:59] – Madelyne’s Journey into Lettering & Design
[45:00 – 51:59] – Building a Creative Career Through Art
[52:00 – 57:59] – Creativity, Community & Artistic Growth
[58:00 – End] – Final Thoughts + Encouragement for Makers

Quotes from the Episode

“Sometimes the project doesn’t go the way you planned, but it can still become something beautiful.” — Joleen Emery
“I don’t believe in garbage—I believe in possibilities.” — Joleen Emery
“The best creative discoveries often happen when you stop being precious with your materials.” — Joleen Emery
“Every mistake is just an opportunity to find a new solution.” — Joleen Emery
“Creativity grows when you give yourself permission to experiment.” — Madelyne Adams
“Lettering is more than words—it’s a way of communicating personality and feeling.” — Madelyne Adams
“The projects that challenge us often teach us the most.” — Madelyne Adams

Resources and Links

🎨 Good Letters Design – Explore Madelyne Adams' work in hand lettering, graphic design, illustration, and mural painting.
✍️ Madelyne's Favorite Lettering Tools & Supplies:
Kuretake Zig ClickArt Pens (purchased from Wet Paint)
Fountain Pens for both writing and sketching
Sakura Pigma Micron Pens (Madelyne mentions preferring a mid-range tip size and specifically carries an 01 Micron)
Sharpie Markers for everyday sketching and lettering practice

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In Episode 92 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast, Joleen sits down with artist, designer, and maker Beth Erickson for a colorful and encouraging conversation about acrylic pouring, functional art, and the courage it takes to share your creativity with the world. Inspired by the beauty and movement of the Pacific Northwest, Beth creates joyful artwork ranging from fluid abstract paintings and resin art to charcuterie boards, stationery, and handmade pieces designed for everyday life. Together, they talk about creative vulnerability, building a handmade business one market at a time, and why experimenting without fear can lead to meaningful connection. The big takeaway? Your art doesn’t have to be perfect to matter — it simply has to be shared.

Guest Bio

Beth Erickson is an artist, designer, and maker whose work spans acrylic pour painting, abstract mixed media, stationery design, resin art, and functional handmade pieces. Inspired by the movement, color, and beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Beth creates art designed to bring joy into everyday life — from painted cribbage boards and charcuterie trays to greeting cards, stickers, and fluid abstract artwork. Through her creative business, Beth encourages others to embrace experimentation, creativity, and the courage to share their work with the world.

Follow Beth

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Etsy

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 05:29] – Welcome & creative life updates
[05:30 – 8:59] – Introducing Beth Erickson
[09:00 – 15:44] – Acrylic pouring & resin art beginnings
[15:45 – 21:59] – Finding inspiration in the Pacific Northwest
[22:00 – 28:29] – Creating functional art people can use every day
[28:30 – 34:59] – Selling handmade work at markets & events
[35:00 – 41:14] – The vulnerability of sharing your art publicly
[41:15 – 47:59] – Encouragement for creatives building a business
[48:00 – End] – Final reflections on courage, creativity & connection

Quotes from the Episode

“Some of the most meaningful art is the kind people get to use every day.” — Beth Erickson
“Putting your work out there can feel vulnerable, but it’s also how connection happens.” — Beth Erickson
“Acrylic pouring taught me to embrace unpredictability instead of fighting it.” — Beth Erickson
“I want my art to feel joyful, approachable, and lived with.” — Beth Erickson
“Every market taught me something new about confidence and creativity.” — Beth Erickson
“Creativity grows when we stop waiting for perfect and just start sharing.” — Joleen Emery
“Art becomes even more meaningful when it’s woven into everyday life.” — Joleen Emery
“Sometimes courage looks like simply showing up with your work.” — Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

🎨 Explore Beth’s work:
🌐 www.bethericksondesigns.com

🏕️ Learn more about retreats & creative workshops:
🌐 https://bigravenfarm.com/

🛍️ Shop Joleen’s creative products & art kits:
🌐 https://bigravenyoga.com/

Love "Happy Time Craftcast"? 

👉Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help others discover our crafty community
👉Stay tuned for more Happy Time Craftcast with Joleen Emery. Subscribe now!

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Welcome to Episode 91 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast! In this creativity-filled episode, Joleen shares studio updates, handmade apparel projects, and exciting plans for interactive live-stream crafting experiences. She’s joined by ceramic artist Elsa Stutzman, who opens up about her journey back to pottery and the joy of creating functional ceramics meant to be used and loved every day. Together, they explore creativity, craftsmanship, and the meaningful connection behind handmade art.

Guest Bio

Elsa Stutzman is a functional potter and ceramic artist whose handmade pieces are designed to bring beauty and meaning to everyday routines. Inspired by the idea that art should be held, used, and loved, Elsa creates thoughtful ceramics that blend craftsmanship with storytelling. After first discovering pottery in college, she rediscovered her passion for ceramics in 2020 and has since built a growing creative practice centered around connection, functionality, and joy.

Follow Elsa

• Website
• Instagram

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 05:59] – Welcome Back + Mother’s Day Recap
[06:00 – 09:59] – Quilted Cats, Stars & Butterflies
[10:00 – 12:59] – Handmade Thread Conditioner + Gift Shop Updates
[13:00 – 15:59] – Ornament Kits + Creative Packaging Decisions
[16:00 – 19:59] – Fusible Web & Appliqué Process Explained
[20:00 – 21:59] – Introducing Guest Elsa Stutzman
[22:00 – 25:59] – Elsa’s Functional Pottery Philosophy
[26:00 – 28:59] – Discovering Ceramics in College
[29:00 – 32:59] – Returning to Clay in 2020
[33:00 – 36:59] – Building a Creative Practice from Scratch
[37:00 – 40:59] – Why Functional Art Matters
[41:00 – End ] – Final Thoughts + Encouragement for Makers

Quotes from the Episode

“Creativity is figuring it out one project at a time.” — Joleen Emery
“I love taking discarded materials and turning them into something meaningful.”  — Joleen Emery
“Sometimes you just have to try the idea that won’t leave you alone.” — Joleen Emery
“I love the idea of art that can be held, used, and loved every day.” — Elsa Stutzman
“Functional ceramics turn everyday moments into something magical.” — Elsa Stutzman
“I missed ceramics so much that eventually I realized I just needed to find a way back to it.” — Elsa Stutzman
“I want people to feel the love and care that went into every piece.” — Elsa Stutzman

Resources and Links

🧵 Techniques Mentioned – Quilting, appliqué, fusible web layering, embroidery, and handmade thread conditioner.
🏺 Functional Ceramics – Explore the beauty of handmade pottery designed for everyday use and meaningful connection.

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Welcome to Episode 90 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast, where Joleen switches things up with a fun, hands-on live demo! In this episode, she walks through a step-by-step reverse appliqué process, using stick-and-stitch, thoughtful placement, and fabric layering to transform thrifted garments into custom pieces. Along the way, she shares practical tips, lessons learned, and encourages viewers to experiment and make the process their own. The takeaway? Creativity is all about trying, learning, and having fun with it.

Guest Bio

No guest this week—just Joleen in her element, sharing her creative process, tips, and behind-the-scenes magic from Big Raven Farm.

Follow Joleen

• Website
• Instagram
• Youtube

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 01:29] – Welcome + Episode Overview
[01:30 – 03:29] – Joleen’s Five Happy Things
[03:30 – 04:59] – Repurposed Teacup Candles
[05:00 – 07:29] – DIY Thread Conditioner
[07:30 – 09:29] – Sweatshirt Embroidery Wins
[09:30 – 11:59] – Cyanotype on Denim Experiment
[12:00 – 13:29] – Community Chat + What’s Making You Happy
[13:30 – 14:59] –Reverse Appliqué Demo Begins
[15:00 – 17:59] – Materials: Stick-and-Stitch + Canva Designs
[18:00 – 20:59] – Placement Tips for Apparel
[21:00 – 24:59] – Pinning + Fabric Prep
[25:00 – 34:59] – Step-by-Step Process + Pro Tips
[35:00 – End] –Final Thoughts + Creative Encouragement

Quotes from the Episode

“Let’s not be wastey-wastey with our resources.”  — Joleen Emery
“Progress is progress—even if it’s a little messy along the way.”  — Joleen Emery
“Sometimes it’s better to let the professionals do their thing.” — Joleen Emery
“You don’t need one more machine… you just need to start creating.”  — Joleen Emery
“Just try it—you’ll figure it out as you go.”  — Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

🎨 Big Raven Farm Gift Shop – Featuring handmade items like upcycled apparel, candles, and creative kits.
🏡 Workshops & Retreats – Join hands-on experiences including cyanotype, embroidery, and mixed media projects.
🧵 Techniques Featured – Reverse appliqué, stick-and-stitch embroidery, upcycling clothing, and cyanotype experimentation.
🛠️ Tools & Materials – Stick-and-stitch sheets, Canva for design creation, thrifted garments, pins, and fabric scraps.

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Welcome back to Episode 89 of Happy Time Craftcast! Joleen kicks things off with her latest "five happy things," including cyanotypes and upcycled projects, before diving into a chat with artist Kaitlyn Luhm. Kaitlyn shares the magic behind her realistic polymer clay miniature food jewelry and the joy of working on such a tiny scale. It’s a fun conversation about embracing the "ugly phase," staying curious, and trusting your creative process.

Guest Bio

Kaitlyn Luhm is a Minneapolis-based artist specializing in miniature food jewelry crafted with incredible detail and realism. Self-taught through experimentation and tutorials, her work is inspired by childhood creativity, dollhouse miniatures, and a love for tiny, intricate design. Using polymer clay and resin, Kaitlyn creates one-of-a-kind wearable pieces and is currently expanding her collections while preparing for major art events like Art-A-Whirl.

Follow Kaitlyn

• Website
• Instagram

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 6:55] – Welcome + Episode Intro
[07:06 – 08:26] – Introducing Guest Lindsey Ries
[8:27 – 17:00] – Miniature Food Art
[17:01 – 18:59] – Creative Process: Sketching vs. “Squishing Clay”
[19:00 – 21:59] – The “Ugly Phase” of Creating
[22:00 – 25:00] – Materials: Polymer Clay & Resin
[24:59 – 31:59] – Adding Realistic Texture & Detail
[32:00 – 36:00] – Growing as a Self-Taught Artist
[36:01 – 40:00] –  Preparing for Art-A-Whirl 🎨
[40:01 – End] – Final Thoughts + Creative Encouragement

Quotes from the Episode

“Progress is progress, friends—even if it’s just a little bit at a time.” — Joleen Emery
“Just try it—you might surprise yourself with what you can create.”  — Joleen Emery
“I love seeing how people take something simple and turn it into something magical.”  — Joleen Emery
“Most of the time, I just start squishing clay and see where it goes.”  — Kaitlyn Luhm
“There’s always that really ugly phase where you think you made a mistake.” — Kaitlyn Luhm
“You just have to see it through—you might end up loving the result or learning something new.” — Kaitlyn Luhm
“I love being able to take my time and really focus on the tiny details.” — Kaitlyn Luhm

Resources and Links

🎨 Art-A-Whirl (Minneapolis)
🏡 Big Raven Farm Retreats – Upcoming Pick Your Project Retreat along with hands-on workshops focused on cyanotype and eco printing, offering a fun and immersive creative experience.
📚 Book Nook for Makers: Honey in Your Heart: Ways to See and Savor the Simple Good Things by Mary Anne Radmache

Love "Happy Time Craftcast"? 

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Welcome to Episode 88 of Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast! In this cheerful episode, Joleen kicks things off with her signature “five happy things,” sharing fun updates like reverse appliqué apparel, repurposed fabric designs, and a few new favorite tools. She is joined by Lindsey Ries, an interdisciplinary artist who blends painting, textiles, and jewelry into one-of-a-kind wearable art, and together they explore creative processes, juggling multiple mediums, and Lindsey’s upcoming fashion show featuring locally made designs. With all the happy vibes and inspiring conversation, the episode celebrates creativity, community, and doing what lights you up. The key takeaway is to follow creative curiosity, embrace mixing mediums, and create what feels joyful and meaningful.

Guest Bio

Lindsey Ries is an interdisciplinary artist who thoughtfully blends painting, textiles, and one-of-a-kind wearable jewelry into her creative practice. Her work is inspired by landscapes and architecture, capturing a sense of nostalgia, quiet moments, and a strong feeling of place through mixed-media design. Based in Minnesota, she continues to evolve her artistic voice and is currently preparing new pieces for an upcoming fashion show.

Follow Lindsey

• Website
• Instagram

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 6:55] – Welcome + Joleen’s Five Happy Things 🎉
[06:56 – 08:00] – Introducing Guest Lindsey Ries
[8:01 – 14:30] – Lindsey’s Creative Journey & Artistic Background
[14:31 – 19:29] – Favorite Mediums: Painting, Textiles & Jewelry
[19:30 – 29:29] – Designing for the Runway + Local Maker Community
[30:00 – 33:59] – Creative Process & Inspiration Behind Current Work
[34:00 – 37:59] – Balancing Multiple Mediums as an Artist
[38:00 – 41:59] – What’s Next: New Series & Future Plans
[42:00 – 43:59] – Final Thoughts + Creative Encouragement
[44:00 – End] – Wrap-Up + Outro 💖

Quotes from the Episode

“We have to pick up and do what inspires us in that moment.” — Joleen Emery
“I’m inspired by color, nostalgia, and those quiet, everyday moments.” — Lindsey Ries
“There’s something really special about creating pieces that are completely one of a kind.” — Lindsey Ries
“It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be meaningful to you.” — Joleen Emery
“I love blending different materials to tell a story through what I make.” — Lindsey Ries

Resources and Links

🛍️ Evolve Fashion Show (Edina, MN)

Hosted by The Fitting Room boutique 
Features local designers + makers 
Includes pop-up shop + runway + post-show shopping

💡 Craft Tools Mentioned
 LED neck light (perfect for crafting on-the-go!) 
 Fusible web + reverse appliqué techniques 

Love "Happy Time Craftcast"? 

👉Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help others discover our crafty community
👉Stay tuned for more Happy Time Craftcast with Joleen Emery. Subscribe now!

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Craftonians! ✨ Episode 87 is bursting with creativity, clever ideas, and a little joyful chaos as Joleen shares her “Five Happy Things” — from quirky upcycled projects to genius crafting hacks. She then dives into the magical world of eco printing, walking you through how to create a beautiful EcoBook using natural materials like eucalyptus leaves. It’s a fun, hands-on reminder that creativity can be simple, experimental, and full of happy surprises. So grab some leaves, embrace the imperfections, and turn everyday materials into something truly meaningful.

Guest Bio

Joleen is a mixed media artist, retreat host, and creative educator based at Big Raven Farm. Known for her joyful, resourceful approach to art, she specializes in upcycling materials into meaningful, beautiful creations — all while encouraging others to embrace creativity without fear.

Follow Joleen

• Website
• Instagram
• Youtube

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 01:59] – Welcome + Retreat Buzz & Energy
[02:00 – 07:59] – Five Happy Things (creative wins & fun finds)
[08:00 – 14:59] – Bowling Ball Art Project (yes, really)
[15:00 – 17:59] – Introduction to Eco Printing
[18:00 – 21:59] – What is an EcoBook? (final result walkthrough)
[22:00 – 25:59] – Materials Needed (paper, eucalyptus, tools)
[26:00 – 29:59] – The Eco Printing Process Explained
[30:00 – 33:59] – Results, Experiments & What to Expect
[34:00 – 37:59] – Embellishing Your Eco Prints
[38:00 – End] – Creative Encouragement + Try It Yourself

Quotes from the Episode

“This is not a three-hour project — this is a settle in and get yourself happy kind of project.” — Joleen Emery
“Not every print will be a keeper, but every single one has potential.” — Joleen Emery
“I love taking something simple and turning it into something meaningful.” — Joleen Emery
“Let the process surprise you — that’s where the magic is.” — Joleen Emery
“It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.” — Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

🌿 Eco Printing Materials – eucalyptus leaves, watercolor paper, vintage papers
🍲 Non-Reactive Pot – aluminum or camping pot for boiling prints
🪵 Wood Boards – used to press and bundle papers during printing
📚 Repurposed Bookboard – for creating EcoBook covers
🖊️ Embellishing Tools – white pen, black pen, gold paint markers
🧴 Weldbond Glue – used in earlier featured projects (multi-surface adhesive)
🎨 Fabric Medium + Acrylic Paint – for stencil work on textiles
🧵 Stick & Stitch Embroidery Paper – for turning drawings into embroidery
🛍️ Dollar Store Craft Supplies – marbles, rhinestones, and more
🛠️ Bowling Ball Stand (Amazon) – display for finished art piece

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