Well hey there, Craftonians! ✨
If you’ve been hanging out with me here on the Happy Time Craftcast, you know we’re all about following that spark of curiosity wherever it leads—whether it’s toward a new paint color, a scrap of vintage fabric, or a bold piece of handmade jewelry. This week’s episode is a total celebration of that "yes" mentality, and I can’t wait for you to dive in.
Before we got into the heart of the conversation, I kicked things off with my signature "five happy things," including some fun updates on reverse appliqué apparel and my latest adventures in repurposed fabric designs. My heart was already full, but sitting down with this week’s guest was the absolute cherry on top.
The vibe? Energetic. Inspiring. Multi-passionate. The perfect energy for a conversation about what happens when you stop choosing just one medium and start embracing them all.
Getting to Know Lindsey Ries
Lindsey is a Minnesota-based interdisciplinary artist who doesn't just stick to one lane—she builds her own! She thoughtfully blends painting, textiles, and one-of-a-kind wearable jewelry into a creative practice that feels like a love letter to landscapes and architecture. Her work captures a sense of nostalgia and those quiet, everyday moments that we often overlook. Currently, she’s channeling all that creative magic into preparing pieces for an upcoming fashion show. Lindsey’s art is a beautiful reminder that our work can be a bridge between different worlds—taking the stillness of a painting and turning it into something you can actually wear out into the world.
What I Learned from Lindsey
Talking with Lindsey felt like a permission slip to be a "creative explorer." She reminded me that we don't have to box ourselves in. Why choose between a paintbrush and a needle when you can use both to tell a better story? Lindsey spoke about the joy of creating pieces that are completely one-of-a-kind and how she balances the juggle of multiple mediums. One of my favorite things she shared was how much she loves blending different materials to tell a story through what she makes. Isn’t that exactly what we’re all trying to do? We’re weaving our experiences, our favorite colors, and our curiosity into everything we touch.
By the end of our chat, I felt a renewed sense of excitement to pick up whatever is lighting me up right now. As Lindsey says, she is inspired by color, nostalgia, and those quiet, everyday moments. It’s such a powerful reminder to look around and find the art in the ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you’re a multi-passionate maker who struggles to pick just one thing, this episode is going to feel like home. It is perfect for anyone who loves the intersection of fashion and fine art or simply needs a boost of happy vibes and a reminder that your work doesn't have to be perfect to be powerful. Lindsey’s journey is proof that when you follow your creative curiosity, you end up making something truly meaningful.
So, grab your current project—whether you’re stitching, painting, or bead-stringing—and join us for a conversation that will make you want to mix your mediums and dream a little bigger.
Until next time, Craftonians—keep creating, keep exploring, and remember: it doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to be meaningful to you. 💛
With love and laughter,
Joleen
PS: 🎥 Watch the full episode below:
Guest Bio
Lindsey Ries is an interdisciplinary artist who thoughtfully blends painting, textiles, and one-of-a-kind wearable jewelry into her creative practice. Her work is inspired by landscapes and architecture, capturing a sense of nostalgia, quiet moments, and a strong feeling of place through mixed-media design. Based in Minnesota, she continues to evolve her artistic voice and is currently preparing new pieces for an upcoming fashion show.
Follow Lindsey
Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[00:00 – 6:55] – Welcome + Joleen’s Five Happy Things 🎉
[06:56 – 08:00] – Introducing Guest Lindsey Ries
[8:01 – 14:30] – Lindsey’s Creative Journey & Artistic Background
[14:31 – 19:29] – Favorite Mediums: Painting, Textiles & Jewelry
[19:30 – 29:29] – Designing for the Runway + Local Maker Community
[30:00 – 33:59] – Creative Process & Inspiration Behind Current Work
[34:00 – 37:59] – Balancing Multiple Mediums as an Artist
[38:00 – 41:59] – What’s Next: New Series & Future Plans
[42:00 – 43:59] – Final Thoughts + Creative Encouragement
[44:00 – End] – Wrap-Up + Outro 💖
Quotes from the Episode
“We have to pick up and do what inspires us in that moment.” — Joleen Emery
“I’m inspired by color, nostalgia, and those quiet, everyday moments.” — Lindsey Ries
“There’s something really special about creating pieces that are completely one of a kind.” — Lindsey Ries
“It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be meaningful to you.” — Joleen Emery
“I love blending different materials to tell a story through what I make.” — Lindsey Ries
Resources and Links
🛍️ Evolve Fashion Show (Edina, MN)
Hosted by The Fitting Room boutique
Features local designers + makers
Includes pop-up shop + runway + post-show shopping
💡 Craft Tools Mentioned
LED neck light (perfect for crafting on-the-go!)
Fusible web + reverse appliqué techniques
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