About Ingrid Johansen Online

Boy, do I make a lot of stuff! Slowly and carefully, but constantly and compulsively. Why do I do this?

The primary reason, of course, is that I love the process of making--anything--with my own two hands. And I'm an old-school crafter: no matter how lovely a piece of handwork is, if it isn't soundly and beautifully put together, it's just not worth the time or the cost of the materials. Technique is important! I'm drawn to old techniques from a time when there was no alternative but to make needed items by hand, out of available materials, and with as much thrift as is possible. I believe that well-executed craftsmanship is beautiful and valuable, regardless of the surface appearance of the finished item. Beyond the physical qualities of this kind of work, however, there is also something soul-feeding about hand work. It's a spirit of resistance to many facets of our life these days.

Don't get me wrong: there's something to be said for surface beauty, too! I like to use my skills to create things that are sound, useful, durable, and beautiful. Click a link on the COLLECTIONS page and look at my stuff. I hope you'll find that I've met my goal!

Send questions or purchase inquiries to Ingrid Johansen.