Studio Spaces: Garbage of Eden Design

For Studio Spaces I spotlight an artist or designer from the Indie Fixx Shop through an interview and pictures of their studio, work in progress and other pics. Today, I’m sharing my interview with Stephanie Huffaker of Garbage of Eden Design.  Stephanie creates jewelry from upcycled plastic bags hoping to  help raise awareness about the  nasty effects of plastic bag use on the environment.  Stephanie uses plastic shopping and newspaper bags that have donated by family, friends and even strangers to make striking and colorful bangle bracelets and other jewelry pieces.

I am happy to say that I carry Stephanie’s bracelets in the Indie Fixx Shop and if you want to add a really funky & colorful bangle (or two) as well as a conversation piece, then head on over and take a look at Stephanie’s designs.

You can also read more about Stephanie, her work and her studio below in my interview and from some pics!

1. What’s the name of your shop and what do you create?

My shop is called Garbage of Eden Design and I make accessories and other objects out of recycled materials, especially plastic, that I collect from the community. I love the challenge of using recycled/found materials. It makes each piece very unique and eco-friendly!

2. What’s your favorite thing about your studio or work space?  Your least favorite?

My favorite thing about my work space is that it’s my home as well, I can roll out of bed and have a cup of tea while getting started on my projects. All my supplies and materials (and snacks!) are always close at hand. I guess the only downside is it’s very small, but that’s also good in some ways. It has helped me to become way more organized and efficient. I even have all my plastic bags stored by color!

3. What do you listen to or watch while you work?

Sometimes I pick up some old movies from the library, especially Alfred Hitchcock movies. I like a pretty wide range of music but world music and classic rock are my favorite to listen to while working on stuff. My two favorite musicians at the moment are Seu Jorge and Todd Rundgren.

4. What are some of your inspirations in your work?

All kinds of things! sculpture, traditional weaving techniques, textile design… the list goes on.. I have a blog about them: www.garbageofedendesign.blogspot.com.

5. Anything you want to share? Doing any craft shows this year, have some new products coming out, or get a really big write-up in a national publication?

I’m looking forward to the Greenfest in Philly this year, Sunday Sept. 7th. It’s full of fun and informative environmentally conscious vendors. www.greenfestphilly.com. I’m also excited about some new pieces I’m developing that are made by weaving on a loom.

6. What’s the most fun in the whole wide world?

Tooling around on my bike!