Here is a peek at what I have been working on for this year's Martha Stewart Holiday Craft Fair. There are three pieces in the collection, each with a different meaning, and with proceeds from each going to benefit a different organization I feel passionate about.

.

.

The Chimp

I was lucky to have met the renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, when she visited the Martha Show a few years back—I have never been so "star struck" in my life. The first piece I worked on is dedicated to what Jane has worked so hard to protect, the chimpanzees. The Jane Goodall Institute contributes to the preservation of the great apes and their habitats, among many other humanitarian work. For each buyer of a Chimp Necklace, I will make a donation to enroll them as a member of the Jane Goodall Institute.

.

The Elephant

Elephants were my favorite animals as a child. Consequently, after seeing a youtube video about Shirley the elephant and her incredible life, I knew I had to make a piece to benefit the place that came to her rescue. The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee is a natural habitat refuge for elephants—a place where elephants can be with elephants and where there is room to roam. For each buyer of an Elephant Necklace, I will make a donation for them to become a "friend" of The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.

.

The Skull & Crossbones Vessel

This piece comes in a different form. I call it a mourning vial. It is a vessel to keep near to your heart a lock of hair of a lost pet or a loved companion. Although this piece may seem a bit morbid, it pays tribute to all the dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, etc. that are homeless today or have been euthanized. For each buyer of a mourning vial, I will make a donation for them to become a member of the ASPCA®. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® works to end animal cruelty and aids in finding homes for so many needy animals.

.

I hope you get to stop by this year's fair to check out all the wonderful things that are being made!

Tags: accessories, animals, craft fairs, gifts, Holidays, jewelry, Pets
Posted by Kristin St. Clair on November 16th, 2010 in Behind the Scenes