Out of Our Hands Gallery - fine handcrafted creations

Jon Parker is not just your typical carpenter. His passion for conserving and breathing new life into lumber makes him an ecologist. His use of historical artifacts to re-purpose into new items makes him a preservationist. His original designs and creative prove that he’s a true artist. And somehow with his many talents, he remains one of the most humble and down-to-earth people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.

We are extremely happy to include him as a member of our talented team, and we take great pride in having him as our featured artisan. Take a moment and get to know Jon Parker…he’s really one in a million.

OOOH:  How would you describe the craft you work in? What sets your items apart from other artisans?

JP: I design and build unique woodcraft from recycled lumber and salvaged logs. Many times the found wood has an aged patina that cannot be duplicated using new lumber.

OOOH:  How long have you been crafting? Have your interests and materials changed over the years?

JP: I started as a young boy making my own toys with wood from salvaged vegetable and fruit crates. The warmth and organic character of wood have never lost their charm.

OOOH: Typically, what steps do you take when working with reclaimed wood to enhance its beauty?

JP: I choose the most beautiful or interesting “face” of each board for the outside surface, carefully join the parts, progressively sand to enhance the grain and figure, and carefully finish to achieve a soft “hand”. (more…)

One of our beloved artisans, Kathy Dries (who lives right in our town of Emmaus!) has created a stand-out collection of children’s accessories that truly belongs in fashion magazines. These gorgeous floral items (hats, pins, hair clips, headbands) compliment her adorable vintage pillowcase dresses, and their brilliant colors and textures are certainly appropriate for the upcoming spring weather! We’re happy to present this artist interview to show just what inspires Kathy’s line of beautifully crafted accessories. Stop by to see them in person…they are a delight!

OOOH:  How would you describe the craft you work in? What sets your items apart from other artisans?

KD: I do several types of crafts mostly needle arts and floral to decorate my home. Right now I am continuing to do knitting – something my grandmother taught me when I was a girl. I resumed my interest in knitting about 10 years ago when all the beautiful Italian yarns became available and I made many scarves. Since then I have followed the trends and have quite a stash of yarn. I love to add beads to my work. I also had an aunt who taught me to sew as a girl and I have made clothes, learning to smock when my own girls were little. I think I also made every Disney Princess costume for Halloween. Although my girls are grown and I am not yet a grandmother, I still love to make fancy things for little girls – hence the vintage pillowcase dresses and fabric roses. (more…)

We are proud to present Barbara Schultz of Walnutport, PA as our newest featured artisan!  (more…)