Say Hello To Rachael!

Happy December, everyone! This is my first sponsor spotlight, and I am a little nervous! Rachael is absolutely lovely, so she is definitely going to start this off on the right foot.

Tell me about yourself!

My name is Rachael "TreeTalker" Caringella. I currently live in Utah with my two doggies and my boyfriend. I always say "One is stinky, one is hairy, and one has a biiiggg nose." It's my little joke. Ever since I was little I have always loved nature. I really did talk to trees, and I still do! I am currently settled into a little itty bitty apartment in Utah, though I make no plans to stay in Utah, I'm growing quite fond of this area. I am inspired by nature, trees, Fairy Tales, mushrooms, cemeteries, dreams, antique bottles, tarot cards and palm reading, acorns, tea sets, tiny mammals, fairy rings, old photographs, ghost stories, small collectibles and paper flowers, gift boxes, and other various containers

How did you start hand making?

I've been making art since before I can remember, I just always knew that was what I wanted to do, and I would be lost without it. I studied art in college for two years before dropping out and trying to make it on my own. I'm still very happy with my decision to leave school. Aside from painting I also own a little hat shop where I make and sell animal hats and pixie hats, as well as other beanies of course.
Rachael's hats are super cute! 

Where do you sell, both online and elsewhere?

I sell online mostly, though I have sold some stuff to friends out of my house. This spring I will be sending 20 paintings to a show in Georgia, where they will be up for sale. I would love to do a craft show one day.. I just need to gain the courage first!
I can relate! Craft shows can be nerve-wracking. Nearly every show I do, I freak out and assume I won't sell anything, and that all my knits are terrible. I've slowly been getting better. 

What do you do other than create?

I love to explore and go on little adventures. I take my doggies on a walk with a camera in hand. I love taking photos. I hardly ever have time to just sit and do nothing. I'm hardly ever board because I stay so busy.

What does your workspace look like?

It's currently a small corner of the house, gated from the animals. It is often very messy. But it works for now. Every day that I paint, I wheel out my portable studio and take up half the living room.

What is your most indispensable tool, that you would be completely lost without?

I would normally say a paintbrush, but since discovering my love for mixed media, I can paint with just about anything and like the results!

Anything else?

Hmm I love to be happy, and inspire others to be happy!

Blog ~ Art Shop ~ Knitwear Shop ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Tumblr 

Thanks Rachael! I will be posting the responses to my questions from all my sponsors in the first few days every month. Stay tuned for Minimalist Knitter!