foundling is the creative effort of Betsy Carr, whose work is inspired by an ethic of reuse and a love for all things old. Limited edition pieces are handmade in her Asheville, NC studio using pages from old books, vintage patterned bedsheets, timeworn beads, illustrations, resin and recycled silver. The graphic text, softly colored maps and sweet vintage florals combine vintage goodness with modern sensibility in necklaces, earrings and bracelets that are wearable conversation pieces. You will also find recycled poppy corsages and bobbypins from thrifted polyester blouses in Betsy's Etsy store. The colors change seasonally and reflect current trends as well as her favorite "vintage" shades.Tell me about how you originally got into your craft.
My first pieces were made with the intention of turning some important to me bits of paper into something permanent. I had a limited amount of space to work in at the time so I was doing these teeny-tiny collages that became pendants. The whole jewelry making thing evolved from there.
What is your favorite thing to do in the whole wide world?
Probably dog hugging.
What is your biggest challenge when it comes to running your shop?
Keeping up with the business side of things. I'm making strides in that area, but I was in no way prepared for the accounting and planning that's necessary.
What item in your shop would you most like to receive as a gift if someone were shopping for you?
I'd love a maize ring stack. The patterns and colors are lots of fun and they can be worn in different ways.
When you were a kid, what did you think you were going to be when you grew up?
A scientist, and a writer, and an artist.
What other shops out there do you love?
I love to see people use materials that I love in ways that I don't, so I like to visit royalbuffet.etsy.com and sarahearn.etsy.com. I'm also a fan of artists using recycled materials, like ArmoursansAnguish.etsy.com and figsandginger.com.
What does your future hold?
I'm hoping for some frosted sugar cookies, lots of customers and quiet evenings with good books.
Visit Betsy on Etsy or at www.thefoundling.com where she is offering a free poppy with a $50 purchase for a limited time!
