One of the things I love about being a member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen is getting to know so many talented artists in every media: not just fiber, but wood, metal, leather, photography, paper, glass, and clay.

Detail of Jane Kaufmann Raku Button on CCM felt hat #153 of 2008.

I met Jane Kaufmann while volunteering during NHPTV’s Spring Auction some years ago. Jane is a cheerful, easy-going potter, with a great sense of humor.

We got along like a house afire! Jane admired my ability to knit without looking while we answered the pledge phones. I told her all about my felt hats.

I love the texture of Jane's work and how her sense of humor shines through the clay.

“I make raku pottery,” Jane told me. “Sometimes, when I’m firing, if I have a bit of extra clay, I’ll make some buttons. Just for fun, you know. I’ll send you some! Maybe you could use them on your hats…”

And so she did:

Jane Kaufmann Raku Buttons.

And so I did!

CCM Felt Hat #153 of 2008, with Jane Kaufmann raku landscape button.

I’m delighted to have Jane’s button adorning this felt hat. It’s a miniature work of art on my fiber art-to-wear, a one-of-a-kind collaboration between craftsmen in the League that I’m so proud to belong to.

(Contact me if you’re interested in owning this hat. I’ve got gift certificates available, too!)