The Silent Auction for Katie is now complete! The auction took place on Friday, March 19 - Sunday, March 21. A huge thanks goes out to our generous sponsors who donated such amazing items, and to each and every bidder who participated! Now let's all walk away REAL WINNERS by donating our bid amounts directly to Katie to help pay for her medical care. After all, that's why we're all here in the first place!

Learn about our incredible Sponsors by reading our "Sponsor Spotlight" series, with interviews and insights into these unique artisan's work! We encourage you to support their shops.

Be sure to read more about Katie's inspiring story in her fight against cancer on the right hand column below. And follow our blog for updates... there's more to come!

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Sponsor Spotlight - Crooked Hook Designs


Spring hasn't quite sprung just yet, and for all of you who are still in colder climates, Crooked Hook Designs is exactly what you need. This brand new shop run by NJ native and creative mom, Gabrielle, features beautiful, stylish shawls and neck warmers that will take you from winter to spring in toasty style.


Meticulously hand-crocheted with quality materials, these gorgeous pieces are worth twice the price Crooked Hook is charging. And during the month of March, she's offering free domestic shipping as a grand opening celebration. Better grab your favorite design now, before she gets so busy that there's a waiting list!


We sat down with Gabrielle to learn a little about her brand new business. Read more about her in our interview below!


Donations for Katie: Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! First, tell us a little about yourself.

Crooked Hook Designs: I'm Gabrielle, stay at home mom to two girls, ages 5 and 2. I enjoy yoga, wine, dance-parties with my girls, and trips to the dog park with our crazy mutt.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

CHD: My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was 7. I had lost interest in it but then picked it up again when I was expecting my first child and have been sticthing ever since!

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

CHD: I love being able to produce clothing items and accessories in a balance of comfort, beauty, and fashion. A chunky cowl in the perfect color or a lacy, hand-painted shawl can breathe new life into your wardrobe and keep you warm.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

CHD: From everywhere - fashion magazines, people-watching. I come up with designs that I'd like to wear myself, or sometimes a customer's custom request will inspire me to go in a different direction.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

CHD: I think it's amazing how people in the arts come together to help another, and I am very pleased to be a part of that. Just a simple donation can help raise awareness and funds for this wonderful cause.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

CHD: Your will and spirit are so inspiring! The wonderful support of friends, family, and colleagues will help you through this battle.

You can check out more of Gabrielle's designs by visiting her shop! While you're there, go ahead and "heart" her shop so you can come back later to check out the new stuff she's constantly adding. Let's give Gabrielle a warm welcome to the online artisan community!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Wondering which creation Crooked Hook Designs will be offering for auction on March 19th? One lucky winner will receive this lovely one-button cowl. Curious about the color? We can't tell you yet! Come back next week on the 19th to find out, and place your bids!