The Woodworking Way of Life

Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt
Woodworking Aleksandra Zee / Crafted in Carhartt

As all women in woodworking know, you have to be tough as nails on the job. In a male dominated field, often perceived as being pumped full of testosterone and heavy lifting, thick skin is a prerequisite. Just ask San Francisco artist, Aleksandra Zee.

A layer of saw dust coating every article of her life is a permanent reminder of her hard work, and is proudly worn as a badge of artistic authority. To get lost in a world of passion and ambition is something most strive for in this world. Zee has found just that.

“Time vanishes when I am in the studio; it’s the greatest.” —Aleksandra Zee

Earthy tones and pattern play dance from one corner to another on each of her stunning pieces. Comprised of reclaimed materials, Zee uses laths of wood to paint a picture of geometric goodness. Her distinct style is brilliant and bold: a focal point in a room and a dream of a Native American textile.

Zee’s must-have items in her creative day-to-day routine are a nail gun and a great pair of overalls. In the photos above we get a closer look into her creative process. Follow along and see what you can concoct.

Keep up with Zee’s creative musings on instagram. You’ll be glad you did.

A Valentine’s Day Craft With The Middlest Sister

Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Meet Nicole Smeltzer, the author and illustrator of The Middlest Sister. After the loss of her grandfather, Nicole sought out ways to cheer up her family with nostalgic recounts of days gone by. With a spark of craftiness and necessity, she began cutting up old greeting cards and junk mail to put together a comic that has now taken off with popularity. Her family centered plot-lines, painstaking attention to detail, and hard work has captured the hearts of thousands of followers.

Nicole is going to lead us through a Valentine’s DIY today that is easy on the wallet and designed with love:

Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
Paperdoll Studios Guest Post / Crafted in Carhartt
(on the right: the valentine designed by Nicole and on the left: the valentine designed by her 5 year old daughter)

If you’d like to be featured in a DIY Guest Post, email craftedincarhartt@carhartt.com.
Take a look at Nicole’s favorite Carhartt item: The Rapid City Utility Work Apron.