*Made in NC is a series that showcases North Carolina artisans who make exceptional products. This is not a sponsored post, and all of the opinions here are my own.
Have I got a treat for you today!
Not only is it the week of blessed Thanksgiving. Not only are images of stuffing dancing around in your head. Today, you get the chance to win a work of art that’s fun, colorful, made in NC and can even be a great Christmas present.
Support local and getting a free Christmas gift- yes, this is real!
I’m also very excited about this post because it features crafts from my favorite former work desk buddy and sweet friend, Ryann McCall.
When I first met Ryann, I had no idea that she was a fantastic copywriter, proofreader AND artist? I mean, come on! (Oh, and she also blogs at Meet the McCalls!)
With her little business, Shut the Front Door {burlaps by Ryann}, she makes and sells a variety of burlaps that make the perfect door ornaments. From college teams to holiday themes to state pride, this girl can make anything into the cutest little add-on for your door!
Here are 5 questions that I asked Ryann about Shut the Door Burlaps:
1. Can you tell us more about Shut the Front Door Burlaps and how and when it got started?
Growing up, I was always itching to create, whether I was painting, drawing, or playing with Play-Doh. Upon moving to NC for my husband to start grad school, I was looking for a creative outlet to pursue as I navigated the downtime I experienced in the job-searching process. I started off by simply making a pineapple door hanger for my mom’s door, then one for my own. She had friends complimenting her on the design, and thus, my customer base grew. Since getting “serious” about burlap making just over a year ago, I’ve made more than 100 burlap decorations, which absolutely blows my mind in the best possible way!
2. Where do you get ideas for new burlaps?
Quite simply, I get my inspiration from things I observe around me. It might be a bumper sticker, a pin on Pinterest, or suggestions from my friends and family. All my ideas are for designs that I would love to have on my own front door!
3. What does the process of making a burlap door hanger entail?
Each burlap is definitely a labor of love. All burlaps are handmade to order, meaning that no two door hangers or ornaments are exactly alike. I coat each burlap piece with mod podge for maximum durability, apply multiple coats of paint, stuff and seal them, and finish them off with a wire hanger and a matching ribbon. My work area ends up a mess, but I make sure that all of my burlap creations are perfect!
4. Do you have a favorite one?
Being that I’m a South Carolina native, I would have to say that my favorite burlap door hanger is the palmetto tree. I’ve made lots of palmettos in the classic Carolina navy and white, but I also love the opportunity to incorporate school colors or add a bit of personalization with a monogram or last name on the burlap! But then again, I’ve also had fun making burlaps in the shape of NC with different team names on them. Truly, I can’t pick just one!
5. What other Christmas/holiday burlaps do you offer?
When it comes to holiday burlaps, I have four: A snowman, which is my most popular, a gingerbread man, a snowflake, and a personalized polka dot door hanger in Christmas colors. I’ve also made a wreath. My most popular items at Christmas, however, are my burlap ornaments. I’ve got a ton of designs — everything from angels to school spirit ornaments!
Shut the Front Door Burlap Giveaway
Are you pining for one of Ryann’s creations yet…I know I am!
To enter to win a free burlap of your choice (any design or idea goes here), just comment with a memorable Christmas gift.
What’s one of the neatest, most unique or most memorable Christmas gifts that you’ve been given or have given to someone else?
You have until midnight on Wednesday night to leave a comment, then I’ll randomly select the winner (no matter where you live in the US) and a fabulous burlap will be coming your way in a few weeks!
To buy a Shut the Front Door burlap, go to Ryann’s Etsy Shop.
You can also keep up with Ryann and her burlaps by following her on: