Autumn to May by Jennifer

Jennifer, Maryland, USA Brand: Autumn to May Shop: autumntomay.etsy.com

I was first introduced to the world of "Shabby Chic" by Rachel Ashwell and quickly fell in love with its understated romance. I stumbled upon Jennifer's Autumn to May shop and was instantly drawn to her vintage inspired style.

“We had a tradition in our family from the time I was very young that each year for Christmas we had to hand-make one gift for each person in the family. I think that's probably where it started for me.”

Shabby Accordion Album in Decorative Tin: "This album is truly special! It is by
far one of my most favorite things that I have created in a long time. It has
so many special details – just add photos and you’ve got a gorgeous keepsake."

I also love her gift card envelopes - now you can give a giftcard without feeling impersonal and unoriginal!

Vintage-Inspired Gift Card Envelope: "Each envelope is hand crafted from reproductions of vintage French postcards and then distressed to give
them a time-worn look. Postcards are sewn together and adorned with ribbon,
twine or seam binding and other lovely embellishments."

1. What do you call yourself? (e.g., Independent designer, crafter, maker, artist) I never really thought about it, but I guess I would say I'm a crafter or independent designer.

2. What inspires you? How do you get past crafter's block? Magazines, billboards, words, art, music, nature...I think inspiration is everywhere! You just have to be willing to "see" and absorb it. The best place to find it is in the everyday things that most people don't even notice. I think the best way to get past a block is to get out of your own way - take a break, do something else and come back to whatever you were working on when it feels right. I have learned through experience that nothing will turn out right if you try to force it.

3. What tool(s) can't you live without? The list is long...but if I had to just name a few, it would be my sewing machine, cardstock, craft knife and adhesive.

4. Who is your idol, current craft-crush? Hmmm, well I've always been a huge fan of Ali Edwards (life artist) - her stuff really inspires me. I'm also so inspired by Lotta Jansdotter, Amy Butler, and of course, Martha Stewart.

5. How long have you been doing this? I have been making "things" for as long as I can remember. My parents were both crafty, do-it-yourselfers and instilled that in me. We had a tradition in our family from the time I was very young that each year for Christmas we had to hand-make one gift for each person in the family. I think that's probably where it started for me. Now my siblings and I have the same tradition in our own families.

6. Where did you learn your craft? My very talented mom was my first teacher. I certainly picked up other lessons and pursued other interests along the way, but I think the things I make now are really a reinvention or interpretation of the nostalgia I feel for those early lessons in crafting from my youth.

7. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills? No, I also have a full-time job with a University.

8. How would you describe your style? Vintage shabby