Hello Friends!
Have you started your holiday shopping list yet? Ok, me neither…but I plan to start that list tonight & here is one vendor I am looking forward to buying several gifts for my family from!
Hi there! First things first: What’s your name, what’s your business name, where are you from, and where are you currently located/crafting?My name is Grace Fitzpatrick, and my business is Lampified. I grew up in Carlisle, MA, and I currently live in Sudbury, MA, where I make lamps out of my home workshop.
How did you get your start? Please tell us a little bit about how your business went from an idea to what is is today.
I’m obsessed with antiques, funky old stuff, and anything that seems quintessential for its era. A few years ago I started turning my large collection of vintage Thermoses and Tupperware into lamps, and couldn’t stop! I started an Etsy shop about a year ago, and I’ve just been working on growing the business since then!
What inspires you the most to create?
I love hunting for objects to make into lamps. It’s inspiring to just browse at second hand stores, flea markets, and ebay. I also enjoy researching lighting and interior design, and keeping up with what other designers and artists are doing. Looking at architecture, sculpture, and other visual art helps me think differently about my work and gives me a lot of ideas.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
The Thermos is an incredible object to work with. I also love vintage Tupperware, wood, glass globes, all different kinds of lightbulbs, and vintage tins.
Do you have a favorite color palette?
Definitely mid-century earthy tones like burnt orange and avocado, as well as bright colors like turquoise. I’m drawn to unexpected and contrasting color combinations, and I try to reflect that in my work.
Who are some of your favorite indie artist/crafters and why do you love them?
I’m so inspired by other indie lamp makers and lighting designers. A recent fave is Rustoration Lighting. It’s fascinating to me how imaginative people are with the art and craft of lighting, how the industry has changed over the last century, and where it’s going!
Any exciting future plans or developments in the works for your business? (Nothing TOP-SECRET, of course!)
I have been experimenting with different objects, incorporating things like distressed metal cans and antique lanterns into my designs. I also have some miniature lights in the works!
What are some other things you like to do when you are not busy making awesome stuff?
I have a day job as a video producer. I also love photography, interior and graphic design, drawing, sculpture, music, animals, nature, taking long walks and hikes, cooking, and gardening (to name a few!).
What are the top 3 reasons someone shopping at the BBB 2012 should be sure to stop by your table?
1. A lamp makes a really classy and functional gift!
2. I will have some small upcycled goodies that make great stocking stuffers!
3. The objects that I turn into lamps will make you smile!
What is your favorite background noise to listen to while working?
NPR. That, and classic disco, R&B, and house music.
What is your favorite mythical beast and what do you think their favorite crafty past time is?
The image of a little forest gnome in a snowy hut, tinkering away in his clock workshop, makes me feel happy.
