Inside Scoop: Exhibition inspires craft project

Have you ever wanted to make your own bird feeder? Well, our new exhibition, Sallie Middleton: A Life in the Forest recently inspired me to create a simple bird feeder that anyone can make! Sallie’s works are intricately detailed watercolors inspired by nature. We have several of her paintings in our collection, many of which are of different species of birds. I immediately thought of this craft to show in conjunction with our new exhibition. I have seen this project throughout the Internet but originally learned about it from a friend who loves the outdoors. You can follow these simple directions or see a demonstration in a video of me on WLOS’s Craft Corner!

Here’s what you will need:

Three 4 foot lengths of rope or jute

15 inch grapevine wreath

10 inch terra cotta saucer

Instructions:

1. Easily fit your saucer into the center of the grapevine wreath.

2. Take your rope or twine and knot all three pieces together at each end.

3. Fit the wreath feeder inside the three ropes so it sits on the bottom knot that you tied.

4. Then simply hang it on a tree or somewhere outside as a bird feeder or bird bath!

You can easily decorate it with ribbon or glue seashells on the saucer.

Feel free to find creative ways to attract the birds!

Inside Scoop: The Big Crafty 2010

The Big Crafty proved its popularity this year as hundreds of people crowded Pack Place and Pack Square to get their hands on some awesome hand made crafts from local crafters and artists. Voted the best arts and crafts fair in Western North Carolina, the Big Crafty NEVER disappoints. There was definitely an eclectic assortment of crafts, from pottery all the way to "organic armor." There were so many interesting and exciting booths, I’m afraid I spent a little too much money! I especially enjoy my unique print from Katie Daisy and my eco-friendly jewelry from Smart Glass Jewelry. The event is always a great way to experience the best of Asheville and the amazing artists who work here!

The Big Crafty also lured many people into the museum, who strolled through some of our galleries and learned more about some of our events! Take a look at some of our photos we snagged at the event.