This week’s featured crafter adores tinkering with flowers and seashells to create beautiful wall decor. Let’s meet Joanie McGuiness …
Name: Joanie M. McGuiness, 44
Hometown: Baldwin, NY
Craft: Wall décor
How did you discover your craft?
I've been crafting since I was a child. But I started making wreaths last year. I was working at a Michaels craft store and noticed they posted a sign for a part-time floral arranger. Since I had previous experience in this field, I mentioned it to one of my managers and was given the job. I don't work in floral full-time, only during the holidays or when they need more help in that department.
I wish every day was a holiday because I love making wreaths so much that it has become a major hobby for me and soon it will be a new business. I recently showed my wreaths along with my seashell adorned plaques at the Hofstra University Dutch Festival.
Where do you find inspiration?
I don't think I will ever get bored doing my craft because there are always new varieties of flowers (depending on the season) and new seashells to try. It keeps things fresh and exciting. The change of seasons is always welcome with open arms, but for me, Christmastime is the most fun. I get to decorate the Christmas trees we sell at Michaels. Once, I actually had a line of customers waiting for me to finish the next Christmas tree so they could purchase it. Now that is cool! 
What’s your best crafting tip?
The best part of doing my crafts is designing them, the worst part is all the bad burns from the hot glue gun. Watch out! Those darn things (and the hot glue) can give a pretty bad burn. I recommend having an Aloe Vera plant standing by at all times. Tear off a little piece and rub it on, it really sooths the burns. It's also important to remember not to rub the hot glue off with your other fingers because then you'll end up with two bad burns. Just rub the glue that's burning you on the table or something else handy.
Where do you get your supplies?
I work at the Michaels craft store in Oceanside, NY, so I buy a lot of my supplies there. I do use other sources as well, so I have a greater variety to choose from. For my seashells, I've contacted US Shells for their wonderful assortment of seashells. My picture frames come from The Oriental Trading Company that's a great site for all sorts of fun stuff. And don't rule out your local Dollar Store! I've found a treasure trove of inexpensive flowers there. 
What's your biggest challenge?
I've always loved all sorts of crafts, but I think my next challenge will be painting landscapes with acrylics. I've dabbled in it a bit in the past and really enjoyed it. I'll see where that leads me. A few lessons with a pro would be welcomed though.
Any advice for beginners?
The most important piece of advice I can give to a beginner is to find the craft that gives you the most joy and then dive on in to it. Life is short ... let your creativity shine!
For more details on Joanie's wall decor, please contact her via e-mail: seasidegardensdecor@msn.com.
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