Mia Waisman of Fuzzy Lovies
Mia’s work often incorporates details from Russian folk art, as well as memories from her childhood growing up in Soviet Russia. The rowan berries, red currants, whimsical birds in bright colors, valenki (wet felted boots), and decorated Easter eggs are all memories of her upbringing. Mia makes all of her designs by hand from 100% sheep wool from an organic farm in Maine and small-fiber companies in New England. Mia’s current focus is on “usable art”: from home décor items, holiday ornaments, and children’s educational toys and jewelry to occasional art displays and wool paintings.
Featured Product
Maine Chickadee
The chickadee was made through a needle-felted process in which loose wool is shaped by stabbing a barbed needle repeatedly until the wool/fleece mattes together into solid felt. The feet are made of metal wire, wrapped with embroidery cloth, and then sealed with non-toxic clear sealant. It takes a degree of patience and love for wool to needle-felt, as the process can be tedious. For example, it may take anywhere from 5,000 to 500,000 needle stabs to create a felted piece.
SPECIAL
A mini fruit or veggie ornament (think of a sweet pea, eggplant, or pumpkin) with a purchase. Please mention the segment to receive the free gift.
Episode 10
You can find this Artisan’s live stream recording at: