How did you first get involved with crafting? I’m from Texas. You’ve never been to a real craft show until you go to one in Texas. They are huge! I come from a long line of craft makers and collectors.

What are your favorite materials to work with? Do you have a favorite color palette? I swoon over vintage fabric and buttons, regardless of the era and colors. They are all inspiring.

What are your inspirations in your art and in life? Currently – this being Spring and Northern California – I am inspired by the vivid colors in the bounty of blossoms right out my back door. You just get happy looking at a flower. From the brilliant orange of the California poppy, to the radical red in the rhododendrum, to the soft delicate white apple blossom. The colors are magnificent and the petal shapes amazing. How does all that beauty come from a little seed? My homage to Mother Nature are my new colorful corsage pins for hats or bags using multi-layers of petals and colors and dotted with vintage fabric button in the center.

What is your favorite song or album to listen to while working? Duffy, Adele, Alicia Keys, The Cranberries, Amy Winehouse.

Who are some of your favorite indie artist/crafters and why do you love them? Julie Lewis’ mod canvas paintings; Jen Breitback’s wool dolls; Helen Dardik graphics; Tamara’s handmade wood blocks. Their work shows their passion (and talent!!)

Any exciting future plans or developments in the works for your business? Watch for felted cuff and button embellishment kits. And more buttons, buttons, buttons!

Learn and read more about Julie St. Martin’s creations at www.vintageinspiration.etsy.com