We are sisters and artists living in Seattle and we are fascinated with using the medium of paper to create unique and wonderful designs on functional objects. It started several years ago when we experimented with placing Thai Banana Paper on kitchen cabinets...the effect was fabulous. We began to get excited about the application of hand-painted and imported paper on tables, mirrors, and other functional objects.
We knew we had to find a varnish to protect our creations before we could proceed. Our intent was to find a matte varnish that would create a water, stain, and UV (ultraviolet) protected surface. After testing scores of varnishes, we finally found a European varnish that resists even the most worrisome spills such as balsalmic vinegar and red wine.
At a certain point we felt inspired to design and build our own furniture and home accessories (tables, mirrors, etc). We found a mentor, developed our woodworking skills, and set up our own shop.
As we expanded our product line, we experimented with the application of hand-painted paper on switchplates. We felt there could be demand for our artistic one-of-a-kind plates for people who have beautiful homes but don't want to settle for plastic switchplates on their walls. The response to our switchplates has been incredible.
We sell our creations online, in galleries, at art shows (see our schedule on this website), and in our Seattle studio (by appointment). We hope you enjoy our creations and that they bring beauty to your home.
Sincerely,
Ellen and Susan Busteed
"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming WOO HOO... what a ride!"