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Greensboro, NC--A Connecticut couple has turned sustainability and family collaboration into a growing jewelry business. Stonington Designs was founded in January 2023 by Michelle and Rich Drake, combining Michelle's interest in basketweaving with Rich's background in wood and metalworking.

[Image via @drift.bystoningtondesigns/Instagram]

According to a report by Gifts & Decorative Accessories, the idea for the business began after Michelle, an artist, enrolled in a basketweaving class in late 2022. The couple began experimenting with traditional weaving methods applied to reclaimed wood—much of it saved from Rich's years of crafting—and used those materials to produce jewelry in their home workshop.

The report added that Rich's experience in process engineering enabled the couple to manage the entire production process themselves, ensuring consistency and precision. Their approach prioritizes sustainable practices, using reclaimed wood to "highlight its natural grains, tones and texture. Current offerings include four types of wood: cherry, holly, redwood, and walnut, with some pieces featuring etched imagery.

The business soon expanded to involve more of the Drake family. During a family discussion, their son, Michael, an Air Force pilot, and his wife, Donna, proposed what became known as the Military Spouse Weaving Program. The program allows spouses of active-duty military personnel to earn supplemental income from home. The report noted that Stonington Designs provides free training to participants, enabling them to contribute flexibly to their household earnings.

This initiative is designed to offer a "new skill" and economic opportunity while meeting the business's growing demand for handcrafted woven components.

Learn more in this article by Gifts & Decorative Accessories.