More...

Last week on Craft Thursday we profiled the Portland, OR based non-profit Trillium Artisans. This week we're looking at an international group that unifies crafters by family (ok, city), the Craft Mafia. Originating in Austin, TX, the reign of craft has spread to cities small and large, including Portland. EcoMetro cities Berkeley/Oakland and Seattle are suspiciously absent, though St Paul has a familia. More...

The non-profit organization Trillium Artisans has long been a favorite of EcoMetro Portland. Members must use a minimum of 50% recycled materials in their gifts and wares. The flower represents the three principles of people, planet and profit that guide this group in creating business opportunities for low-income artists. Group members are coached in small business counseling and gain access to credit card processing and other benefits that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Applicants must be below the median income in Portland ($33,950 for a house of four, $27,150 for two and $23,750 for one). This week we'll take a look at some of our favorite picks from the online shop. Artists interested in forming a similar group in your area can contact Trillium via their site for more information. More...