Just listed: 11.24.2010

I'm branching out with some new types of items this week. I added a hand-cut paper illustration, which is based on a photo of the Hudson River. I also am working on some new purse designs, so there's a cute new ruffle clutch in the shop!


And there's a new covered button necklace listed, this time it's in shades of green.


Thanks for stopping by!

The story behind the purses...

In 2008, my friend gave me a small pile of upholstery swatches. I loved the beautiful colors and textures, and I started thinking. Wouldn't they be perfect for a purse? A couple broken sewing machine needles later (I learned that I needed a heavy-duty leather needle for fabric this sturdy!), I had my first purse, a black-and-white striped tote of the same style as the ones currently listed in my shop. I used it all summer long, and I still get it out every once in a while!

I got more upholstery swatches and began making purses for my family and friends. As I made more and more, people started remarking that I could sell them. Around that time, my cousins opened Etsy shops, and I was intrigued. Maybe I could, too! But I was in my last year of finishing my PhD (that's a whole 'nother story...) and it just wasn't the right time to start a business.

Two years later, I have a PhD, completed a year as a postdoc, and have moved to a new time zone. My husband (and my family and friends, of course!) encouraged me to follow my dreams-- and Lettered Olive Handmade was born!

Just listed: 11.17.2010

Two new upholstery purses are in my shop!




I've decided that Wednesdays are the days new listings will be added to Lettered Olive Handmade... Check back next week, because I've got some new things planned! :)

Just listed: 11.10.2010

Check out these newly listed items!

Grand Opening!

I am thrilled to announce the grand opening of my Etsy shop:

I named my shop after the lettered olive, which is a kind of shell that I have been collecting for years along the beach on vacation in South Carolina. I love its smooth surface and subtle brown markings. It is beautiful and elegant, and makes me think of wonderful, relaxing times with my family.

This shop is a new adventure for me, and I will be adding handcrafted items to it all the time, including upholstery purses, covered button necklaces, and paper creations. I hope you'll help me to spread the word!