name: Rebecca Shepler
business name: Dusty Tree Soap
website(s): Dusty Tree Soap

What kind of items do you make?
Handcrafted in small batches – all natural – cold processed – vegan – unscented SOAP!

How long have you been in indie artist?
I’ve knit for as long as I can remember, but honestly this is my first craft show and I am so excited to be a part of it. Even though I’m the odd one out with a non-fiber related business – soap. The fiber community is such a warm (pun intended) and welcome host…thanks for letting me be a part of it.

What got you interested in your art of choice?
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of soap making and once I got over my fear of working with lye my soaping took off quickly.

What do you most enjoy about what you do?
It really is just soap, but each one is so different and unique. I love being able to chose the oils, herbs and styling techniques and create such different bars.

What most inspires you?
My kids and their imagination, friends and family.

What makes your creations unique?
No two bars can ever be exactly the same so it is always so much fun to experiment. The first cut on every soap loaf is my favorite moment…the ‘Oh, what is it going to look like..”

Do you have a favorite item or colorway?
I love my Chocolate Mint Soap. All of my soaps are unscented but I love the smell and look of this one the most…such a contrast between dark and light with the beautiful swirls.

What is something you strive to offer the fiber arts community?
I want to get them squeaky clean with gentle vegan soap.

Does being an indie fiber artist affect other aspects of your life?
I’m a knitter, so all of my family and friends know to expect yarny goodness gifts from me for most celebrations. So yes, everyone is warm in my wooly gifts…oh, and their skin is clean and healthy with my soap.

How is the fiber arts world different for you today than it was five years ago?
Fiber is everywhere; people’s perceptions have been changed. What an inspiration…..I love it!