In honor of the 4th of July which is just a few days aways I wanted to share some of my personal favorite American makers. I enjoy traveling to exotic places and getting to learn about the traditional crafts there, but I first got interested in artisan craft because of the amazingly talented people I have met throughout the U.S. over the past decade.
Black Crane
Black Crane is a brand by Alexander Yamaguchi and Momoko Suzuki focusing on a silhouette that complements supple lines and comfort, their collection is characterized as minimal and edgy. All of the design and production of their clothes takes place locally in Los Angeles.
Le Coeur Watch Co.
Le Coeur Watch Co. is a line of unisex, minimalist timepieces designed in Chicago. Each Le Coeur timepiece is named after the city that inspired it and every purchase helps to serve the greatest need of a different partner charity each month. It's a movement that aims to give back and impact the communities around us just by being aware of where we spend our money.
Urban Wood Goods
Urban Wood Goods celebrates the beauty and history of old growth wood in each piece of furniture they create. They craft custom furniture from reclaimed wood that highlights the elements of urban design. From dining tables to bar stools, Urban Wood Goods designs and creates one-of-a-kind, modern environmental furniture hand-crafted in the Midwestern USA.
Oatmeal Shop
Oatmeal Shop is one of my favorite new finds. Elise Birnbaum is the founder of Oatmeal and each ceramic necklace or wall hanging is designed and made with care in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Oatmeal is inspired by simple things, made within a narrow, often neutral, color palette. Casa Verde is planning on carrying some of their necklaces this fall!
Earth Cadets
Earth Cadets is an inspired line of screen printed organic, recycled home goods and accessories made by hand in Chicago. Casa Verde has been a huge fan of their bright colors, fun designs and commitment to ethical production since seeing them at a Renegade Craft Fair many years ago. We are now the proud owner of a large number of screen printed tees for our boys, totes and tea towels. We love how they are always growing and expanding their line with new patterns and fun colors.
Nicolet Candle Co.
Nicolet Candle Co. is an eco-friendly candle company based in Chicago and inspired by the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Casa Verde was lucky enough to be booth neighbors with the Nicolet Candle Co. at our first Dose Market. We were impressed with not only the quality of their products, but with their dedication to finding the most eco-friendly materials including soy wax, glass and recycled packaging along with including tips for reusing the candle containers on their website. Their natural scents are so alluring and we are currently burning pineapple cilantro which smells like a pina colada. Amazing!
Happy 4th of July!