Methow Made 2023

Methow Made NEW FOR 2023

METHOW MADE

Don Nelson: publisher/editor

Tera Evans: advertising

MyKenzie Bennett: design

CONTRIBUTORS

Ashley Lodato

Ann McCreary

Shelley Smith Jones

Sandra Strieby

Steve Mitchell

Made for each other

Creativity comes in many forms. Converting it into a viable business takes more than vision and passion. It requires planning, persistence and patience — along with a lot of support from people with the knowledge and resources to help a business launch and grow.

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ECONOMIC ENGINE

TwispWorks' mission extends beyond its campus

TwispWorks, which sponsors this annual publication through its Methow Made program, is one of the valley’s most reliable advocates for a healthy local economy — in a wide variety of sectors. The TwispWorks mission to “facilitate and steward the economy,” as explained by Associate Director Sierra Golden in an article that begins on page 4, gives the nonprofit organization wide latitude to be of assistance to the Methow’s small businesses.

6 Middle Pages

FOLLOWING AN ARTISTIC DIRECTION

For Robin Doggett, True North Letterpress is a culmination of creative forces

CREATIVITY, VARIETY COME TOGETHER AT METHOW VALLEY GOODS

Work of local artists, artisans, producers showcased

METHOW MADE GUIDE

WOVEN, SEWN, DYED

Methow creators bring fibers and textiles to life

A SPECIAL BLEND OF INNOVATION, TRADITION

Lost River Winery develops new offerings while sticking to community roots

METHOW MADE BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Photo by Steve Mitchell

Given the variety of products and services that can be found here, latitude is a good thing — but business fundamentals are consistent, and TwispWorks is here to help.

Methow Made, a marketing and branding program, was designed to help producers develop and reach their markets, here and outside the valley (visit http://methowmade.com for more details). You’ll also find their products at farmers markets, galleries, studios and retail outlets throughout the valley. Look for the Methow Made displays in many local stores.

In “Methow Made 2023,” you will learn how some diverse local businesses developed and thrived. Each had a different path, while sharing some common denominators including a commitment to originality and quality. You’ll enjoy hearing the unique story behind True North Letterpress, following the transition of Lost River Winery to new ownership, and exploring the world of textile artistry. For a full listing of Methow Made members, see the Methow Made Guide in the middle pages of this magazine, or go to http://methowmade.com for more information.

And, be sure to stop by Methow Valley Goods, a boutique on the TwispWorks campus that features locally made products of all kinds.

We hope you’ll take note of the advertisers that support this publication and familiarize yourself with their offerings. They are easily accessible for visitors and locals alike. “Methow Made” implies quality, care and pride in whatever our local producers do.

Don Nelson

Economic engine

TWISPWORKS’ MISSION EXTENDS BEYOND ITS CAMPUS

BY SIERRA GOLDEN

ASSOCIATE

DIRECTOR, TWISPWORKS

Friends, family and visitors — hello! It’s so nice to see you here in the Methow Valley, a place known for its spectacular natural beauty, limitless

outdoor recreation, and a remarkable local economy. Despite our remote, rural location, we have a network of small businesses — from craftspeople to farmers to river guides — that give this place a strong and unique economy.

TwispWorks strives to facilitate and steward that economy, so whether you’ve been a part of TwispWorks since its inception, or just rolled into town for a weekend getaway, we hope you’ll enjoy this latest edition of Methow Made.

We’re excited to share several

updates with you, our community. Please think of these updates as a warm invitation to visit campus and take advantage of the many programs offered at TwispWorks. Our 6.4-acre campus is truly a place where our community can start, build, and grow, together!

WHAT’S NEW?

The auto tech shop under construction in the northeast corner of campus is nearing completion. The shop is being built in partnership with the Methow Valley School District, and we expect it will be open on Aug. 29 for students on the first day of school. Scan the QR code (or visit www.twispworks.org/

educational-facilities-expansion) to see a video about the shop.

The new facilities are a direct outcome of the school district’s 2020 Dream Big event, in which local students and families brainstormed ways to improve school offerings. The facility will have lasting impacts for our community because it will spark student interest and passions with hands-on, real-world learning; build career pathways; and improve availability of local services by addressing the skilled labor shortage in the Methow Valley and Okanogan County.

The project includes construction of a 2,100-square foot, two-bay auto tech facility, a classroom for use

Photo courtesy of TwispWorks

Creative energies come together at the Methow Valley Goods store on the TwispWorks campus.

of auto tech and welding students, improved welding facilities, two private restrooms for student use, and paving, pathways, and landscaping. With the goals of building career pathways and improving local services, it’s exciting to note that most project components have been completed by local contractors with deep roots in the Methow Valley. For example, Jake Pennock of Pennock Excavation is a local graduate who once participated in the advanced construction classes at TwispWorks; his business completed the site preparation for the new shop.

ON CAMPUS

The TwispWorks campus was originally a U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station. In 1994 the Forest Service consolidated its operations to Winthrop, and the Twisp Ranger Station was left empty for more than a decade. In 2008, our community rallied together to begin revitalizing campus. Since then, we’ve modernized and redeveloped 17 buildings, and we’ve added gardens, greenspaces and art. Even if you’ve visited the TwispWorks campus many times, you likely haven’t seen everything that campus has to offer. We host more than 30 organizations and businesses on our 6.4-acre site in the heart of Twisp, and we have a host of fun outdoor spaces and public art installations for all to enjoy.

What can you visit on campus?

The Methow Valley Interpretive Center fosters cultural awareness and understanding of Indigenous peoples and the natural history

of the Methow Valley and Upper Columbia region through education, interpretation, creative expression, and cross-cultural connections. Their exhibits are open Friday through Sunday.

Methow Valley Goods is a one-stop destination for local goods, featuring the work of over 90 artists, makers, and producers from the Methow Valley and Okanogan County. From home goods and clothing to beer and wine, you’ll find the best local goods here Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Many other businesses on the TwispWorks campus are open for shopping, food and drink. At Culler Studio, you can visit with the artist Sara Ashford — and shop in her storefront. Sara uses earth pigments and locally-gathered botanicals to create wearable art such as scarves and sarongs. At Peter Nawrot’s workshop, you can watch Peter draw out salvaged wood’s inner beauty. His custom cabinets and fine arts pieces are truly one of a kind. Other artist studios include pottery, letterpress and printmaking, metal working and jewelry.

If you’re hungry or thirsty, Old School House Brewery and Taproom offers the best of brews and pizza by the slice. Food to go is also available from Lal’s Fork, which serves up fresh, authentic Sri Lankan food — think rich curries and piping hot samosas — and TwispEats, which offers an all brisket burger, next level fries, fresh salads, and a mighty delicious Korean fried chicken sandwich. We welcome visitors to campus

seven days a week, and every Fourth Friday this year, we invite you to enjoy live music, live arts and crafts demos, open studios, and food vendors from 4-8 p.m.

PROGRAMS

Are you an entrepreneur looking to start a new business or grow an existing business? TwispWorks provides economic development programs for individuals and businesses in the Methow Valley School District.

Methow Made provides sales, marketing, and retail support to local producers, makers, and artists. Look for the Methow Made logo at retail locations throughout the Valley or visit Methow Valley Goods!

From sleek to chunky, classic to funky, find your artifact at "The Collective" featuring handmade jewelry and art from 7 jewelers and local artists.

Thursday - Saturday 11am-5pm

mvjewelerscollective@gmail.com

mvjewelerscollective

509-449-3965

502 S. Glover Street (TwispWorks Campus), Building N., Suite 1, Twisp, WA

TwispWorks’ Methow Investment Network matches local investors with local entrepreneurs needing capital to start or improve businesses. Interested in becoming an investor or making a pitch? Contact Patrick Law at plaw@ twispworks.org.

With funding from Washington State Microenterprise Association, TwispWorks facilitated a series of classes and social engagement events for local business owners this spring. Topics covered included finances, marketing, social media, female entrepreneurship, farming, and more. While the series has concluded for this year, we hope to have similar classes again in the future.

Photo courtesy of Twisp Chamber of Commerce

A new auto tech shop is a partnership project with the school district.

Photo courtesy of TwispWorks TwispWorks programs support many local producers.

It opens a conversation about how using our hands is not just something from another time — it’s something that has a place in modern society."

" People witnessing how the work is done is important to the craft.

Following an artistic direction FOR ROBIN DOGGETT, TRUE NORTH LETTERPRESS IS A CULMINATION OF CREATIVE FORCES

BY ASHLEY LODATO

Three seminal experiences shaped True North Letterpress

owner Robin Doggett’s life and career: early years spent in the Midwest, a commute that involved walking through

a commercial printing warehouse, and the acquisition of a 1911 printing press.

Doggett was raised mostly in western Washington, but during her toddler years her family lived in rural Iowa, with its expansive vistas. “I didn’t realize it until much later in life,” she says, “but I finally figured out why I was always drawn to the

eastern Washington landscape. The entire time I was in western Washington, I missed that big view.”

A rock climber, Doggett found her way to the Methow Valley seeking time on the local crags. “How do I get back here?” she wondered. She eventually figured it out, through jobs with Confluence Gallery (now The Confluence: Art in Twisp) and the Methow Valley News.

Doggett says she was always interested in art and was good at it as a student, but didn’t really ever see art as a potential career. “I wanted to do something professional,” she says. “I had that 1980s pressure to be a commercial success.”

Graphic design provided a pathway to art with commercial viability, so Doggett enrolled in Western Washington University, where she

Photos by Steve Mitchell

earned a B.A. in Design and Visual Communications in 1994.

“It was right on the cusp of the digital era,” Doggett says. “I was interested in the program because it was very hands-on, but I didn’t realize that by the time I finished the program the entire industry was shifting from things being done by hand to being done digitally.”

Doggett worked a lot of pre-press jobs when she finished college, most of them involving copious amounts of time spent prepping digital files. “This was before PDFs were really available in the mainstream,” she says. “You would get any kind of digital file and you had to figure out how to make with work with the specific technology it would be printed on.”

One of Doggett’s pre-press jobs was in a Seattle firm, where accessing the digital design area required walking through the commercial printing facility. “I disliked the job immensely,” she says, “but twice each day — when I arrived and when I left — I got to walk through this warehouse with all these presses running, and all these super knowledgeable guys — they were always guys — talking about the

machines in such a sophisticated way. It was very trade-oriented, really nuts-and-bolts.”

It was an interesting dichotomy, Doggett says. “There I was in the back working on minutiae on a computer, and there were these guys making designs into something you could hold in your hands. They were turning ideas into objects. It was quite a while before I realized how much I connected with the actuality of making a physical thing.”

MAKING CONNECTIONS

When Doggett landed in the Methow Valley, working first for Confluence Gallery and then for the Methow Valley News, she made connections within the artistic community. In 2008, she and artist Laura Gunnip founded Door No. 3 Print Studio, which offered custom letterpress printing and hand printed goods. During that time Doggett learned of an antique printing press that was going to be made available — coincidentally through her alma mater, Western Washington University.

“I wasn’t thinking, ‘Oh, I want to get my hands on a letterpress,’” Doggett says, “but when the opportunity presented itself, it was like a

True North Letterpress now operates out of a space on Glover Street in Twisp.

Doggett snapped up the opportunity to buy an antique letterpress.

beacon. I acquired it before I even knew what to do with it.”

It’s ironic, then, that now Doggett’s business is “built around this machine.” The press itself, she says, “over the years has gone from being an enigma to something that I use every day and that I know really well.”

When Doggett and Gunnip acquired the press, “it was a really big commitment,” Doggett says. “Not just the physical heft of it, but also in terms of learning how to use it. There was so much to be gained from understanding and maintaining this piece of machinery.”

Suddenly Door No. 3 had opportunities previously unseen. “The ability to do larger volumes of printed work enabled us to move from being primarily a nonprofit teaching print studio to being more commercial,” Doggett says. “We could think about

printing things in terms of batches, not single items.”

Learning the press took time and plenty of failure, Doggett says, but eventually “muscle memory took over,” and she suddenly found herself in command of this beautiful, hefty, vintage press that could provide color and texture on paper in a way she hadn’t previously experienced.

TAKING THE LEAP

Doggett hadn’t been strategically angling for a career as a full-time artist, but after 24 years of holding down a day job and making art on the side, she found herself poised on the brink. “I had never really felt like it was realistic to make a full-time living as an artist,” she says, “but I credit other artists in the Methow Valley, especially Laura [Gunnip] for telling me ‘you should

Doggett also sells her original artwork at the Glover Street location.

Doggett divides her time between creative work and running the business.

do this thing’ and encouraging me. ‘Don’t minimize it,’ they told me. ‘You just keep working towards that goal.’”

“I took the leap in late 2018,” Doggett says. “I have a business mind and a professional drive, and I knew this new thing was going to take all my energy and attention. I was ready. I had phased down my additional jobs to be minimal. It was the right time.”

Supported by investments from the Methow Investment Network (MIN), Doggett was able to open True North Letterpress first in a small studio near the Methow Valley Community Center and later on Glover Street in downtown Twisp. “It was more than just investments of capital,” she says. “Those MIN investments gave me confidence.”

The timing, however, was ill-fated. “In 2019 I was just figuring things out,” she says, “and then suddenly it was 2020.”

“I had to come to terms with reality,” Doggett says of the pandemic

time period that shuttered retail businesses. “I realized I might not be able to keep my studio — I might not be able to keep my business. Maybe it would all go away as fast as it had started.”

But the whole next year, Doggett says, she was able to keep things afloat. “The rest of the world slowed down, and that bought me time to put things in place.”

Time, pace, and COVID relief grants for artists allowed Doggett the opportunity to get her website up and running. “The pandemic bought me a longer launch period,” she says.

FINDING BALANCE

On a day-to-day basis, Doggett spends each day balancing creative time with production and business management. “My creative design time happens in the morning or the evening,” she says. “I’ve always worked in a high-paced deadline-driven environment. I do best when I’m having to create when it’s

really busy and I’m under fire.”

With her business being split about 50/50 between custom print orders and retail sales of original art, Doggett finds herself constantly multi-tasking.

A typical day for Doggett includes addressing any orders and correspondence that have come in overnight, attending to her ongoing press schedule, managing paper and ink inventory, folding and sleeving cards, and invoicing. She tries to do the housekeeping before visitors begin opening the door to her studio, but that’s not always possible. “Some of this stuff just happens when it needs to happen,” Doggett says of being both artist and manager of True North Letterpress.

For Doggett, establishing True North Letterpress in the downtown Glover Street corridor, within the Twisp Creative District, is exciting. Located in a commercial building that has housed other artists, as well as creative movement classes,

True North Letterpress is not just an art-making space but also a creative amenity for Twisp. “I’ve always like to envision how the arts can define Twisp,” Doggett says.

With the public’s renewed interest in letterpress, Doggett says that her studio, with its open floor plan that gives visitors to the retail area a clear view of her printing press and workspace, fills a need that people seem to have to see how things are made.

“Letterpress is a bit nostalgic for many people, but it goes beyond that,” she says, “People witnessing how the work is done is important to the craft. It opens a conversation about how using our hands is not just something from another time — it’s something that has a place in modern society.”

True North Letterpress is located at 109A Glover St. N. Hours are Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m.4 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information visit www. truenorthletterpress.com.

Creativity, variety come together at Methow Valley Goods

WORK OF LOCAL ARTISTS, ARTISANS, PRODUCERS SHOWCASED

BY SHELLEY SMITH JONES

Out of the dark days of the pandemic, a colorful outlet for creativity came to life on the TwispWorks campus — Methow Valley Goods.

Local artists, artisans, and producers found valuable time to make their creations during lockdown, but with the loss of farmers’ markets, bazaars, and other Methow Valley events that offered opportunities for pop-up vendors, the sale of their goods was limited.

TwispWorks and its partner Methow Valley Goods filled a need by providing a space where creators and producers could display and sell their goods collectively. During the heart of the pandemic, the store enjoyed healthy sales. While folks were not going out to eat, not going to the movies, not filling their vehicles with gas as often, it was a fun diversion to buy one or more of the local made items that had long been coveted. There are so many pieces to choose from and knowing that local working hands made the item is value added to make the purchase. Even though inflation has cut into dispensable cash for many, still buying a special item for oneself, as a gift, or a memento to take home after visiting the Methow Valley helps boost the local economy and ensure that the maker can continue creating.

TwispWorks Retail Operations and Events Manager Lindsey Bryson does a remarkable job of displaying the products in groupings that please the eye. She is assisted in the store by a group of volunteers, who also have their creations displayed in the store.

Locals shop the store for birthday, anniversary and, of course,

Photo by Shelley Smith Jones

Methow Valley Goods is a partner business on the TwispWorks campus.

Christmas gifts. In fact, Lindsey noted that Christmas Eve 2022 was the largest one-day sales total ever — thanks to those last-minute shoppers finding the best gifts.

Bryson said, “I try to keep items in the store that are reasonably priced and top out the highest-priced items at an affordable price.”

LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM

The diversity of goods is extensive, and each item is created with quality, love, and attention to detail. One can purchase a bar of soap, a candle, a knife, or a pair of soy luscious underwear. Wander around to find artwork by multiple artists, photography, cutting boards, woven rugs, leather items, and jewelry. Ceramics, clothing, botanicals, and shaving brushes catch your eye at each display table. If it’s edibles that appeal to you, there are grains, wine, cider, herbs, and honey. If all you take away is a CD, a card, or a book, you are supporting the community and the talented folks who work here.

TwispWorks may be off the beaten path, but the special history of the rebirth of a U.S. Forest Service campus to a thriving economic and community hub of the Methow Valley makes it worth exploring the interior of the campus with a stop at Methow Valley Goods.

Pearrygin Lake Camp Hosts Steve and Jennifer Keep recently visited Valley Goods. They said, “We like to explore the valley after our camp chores are done and we had never been to Valley Goods.” They were delighted to see the fine works of local folks on display and will most likely make a trip back to Twisp for a gift or memento to take back to Everett when the summer season is over.

As products change frequently, make it a point to stop and browse when you are in Twisp. Methow Valley Goods is in Building O, South Warehouse, Unit 1. The store is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information is also available at https://methowvalleygoods.com.

Valley Goods artist profile: Dan Robbins

BY SHELLEY SMITH JONES

Dan Robbins spent 20 years as a wildland firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service. After a particularly difficult fire season in 2015, Robbins spent the following winter working with leather. At first it was a creative outlet, but soon he realized that concentrating on something other than his day job was beneficial to his mental wellbeing.

He offered his leatherworks to other wildland firefighters who tested the durability of the product. The conclusion was: “hand-built to last.”

Robbins’ family has deep roots in the Methow Valley, so he returned to the valley from Leavenworth in 2011. Having been around horses with his grandfather, Robbins was accustomed to the intoxicating

smell and tactile experience of leather — saddles, reins, bridles, and all the other leather horse accoutrements. He felt that “every piece told a story of the life it had lived, having served a lifetime on the trails of the high country.”

As he builds each of his leather pieces now, his goal is to create the same experience he had with horse leather with his everyday leather goods. His billfolds and wallets come in various sizes to accommodate either a small amount of cash and cards or a slightly heftier amount.

A recent recommendation from AARP is to carry the least amount of identity and cash in your wallet. Robbins makes the perfect size to fit that bill. He also makes tote bags, purses, belts, and an unusual leather item — cribbage boards.

Robbins believes there are endless possibilities he can create with leather. He works with businesses that would like to use leather to express their stories and brand with items such as coasters, card holders, menu covers, and hat patches

(which he will sew on the hats), to name only a few. He can add a logo — either embossed or laser engraved — to almost any item. His personalized leather items make a treasured wedding gift.

It is fitting that Robbins’ Pastime Leather Co. goods are available at the former U.S. Forest Service campus, now repurposed as TwispWorks. Methow Valley Goods features many of Robbins’ products hand made one at a time from U.S. sourced and tanned leather.

Robbins says of Methow Valley Goods, “It has been a great place to showcase my products. It allows me to have items on display without the additional cost of operating a store front.” He is especially pleased with the ease of communication with Methow Valley Goods and the opportunities to participate in events such as the Art Walk and Mistletoe Madness.

Learn more about Robbins’ leatherworks at his website, pastimeleatherco.com. He is also available by email for specific questions at pastimehandbuilt@gmail.com.

Photo by Shelley Smith Jones

Methow Made makes it easy for people who love the Methow Valley to experience local products and flavors and to support our local economy. This 2023 Methow Made Guide connects you to the manufacturers, farmers, artisan food and beverage producers, artists and craftspeople who make their products with ingredients and/or labor from right here in the Methow Valley. For more information, visit MethowMade.com or call us at (509) 997-3300.

A program of TwispWorks Learn more at TwispWorks.org

ARTISAN GOODS

ANNE ACHESON PHOTOGRAPHY

Anne has been an “accidental” photographer since her teens. She specializes in wildlife, landscape and abstract photography from the Methow Valley and surrounding areas. You can find her work at Methow Valley Goods and local farmers markets. Contact Anne by visiting her websitewww. anneachesonphoto.com, Facebook: anneachesonphoto & Instagram: @ anneachesonphotography.

ANNE PECK WATERCOLORS

Anne Peck specializes in whimsical and colorful watercolors that often feature chickens, range cattle, pigs, and other farm animals. She frequently shows at local galleries, and you can find her work at Methow Valley Goods. Contact Anne at peckanne44@gmail.com.

ARROWLEAF STUDIO

Bethany creates watercolors based on the landscapes of the PNW and beyond. She lives in Twisp, WA where she teaches art at Methow Valley Elementary through Methow Art’s Youth Arts Initiative program. She received her BFA from Biola University and her MFA from Otis College of Art and Design. Website: arrowleafstudio.com or Instagram @arrowleafstudio.

ART BY MASHA FALKOV

Masha Falkov is an artist working in digital media, lampworked glass, and ink. Inside her TwispWorks studio you’ll find otherworldly curiosities including lampworked glass organisms, a molecule zoo, and vivid ink and digital color canvases. Contact Masha: (509) 978-9037 - email mashafalkov@gmail.comor visit her website www.mashafalkov.com.

BACKWOODS CULTURE, LLC

Backwoods Culture has been creating artisan bath and body products, using only top quality, responsibly sourced, and clean ingredients since 2013. As a one-woman show, all Backwoods Culture products are formulated, designed, and produced by Amy Scarsella, at her home in the Methow Valley. Follow Backwoods Culture on Instagram @ backwoods_cult or contact Amy via email at backwoodsculturesoap@gmail.com.

BARNFUNK

BarnFunk is free-range art made from salvaged wood, metal, and local human artifact. Inquire about commissions. Instagram is @barnfunk, website is www. barnfunk.com, email is patrick@barnfunk. com and phone is 509-699-0349.

BEADING BY SONORA JANE

Twisp based beading artist Susan Finn creates jewelry, ornaments, & trinkets using semi-precious gemstones, Czech glass, Japanese seed beads & Chinese crystals.  You can find her work at Methow Valley Goods in Twisp or special events. Contact Susan at: beadingbysonorajane@gmail.com.

BLUE BLISS ATELIER

As the creative engine behind Blue Bliss Atelier, Neela Mitchell is a painter, illustrator, digital artist, and photographer. Using her iPhone XR, Neela’s photographic art demonstrates her interpretation of the natural world, combining her original take on light and shadow and color and perspective. Follow Neela’s on Facebook and on Instagram @blueblissatelier. Email her at blueblissatelier@gmail.com.

BROKEN WING CANDLES

Bo makes her candles with 100% beeswax, with wax from Sunrise Honey Company in Clayton, WA. Melted, cleaned twice, and poured into molds in her garage studio. Email Bo at bhthrasher65@gmail.com for more information.

BURNT GINGER STUDIOS

Twisp-based jewelry designer Paris Lilly founded Burnt Ginger with the idea of creating unique pieces of jewelry that are not only beautiful but also durable. You can find her work at Methow Valley Goods, The Mazama Store and on her website at www. burntgingerstudios.com. Contact Paris at: mauiburntginger@gmail.com

CONFLUENCE POETS

Confluence Poets incorporates a diverse group of poets and writers from throughout the Methow Valley. You can find their work at Methow Valley Goods and on their website: www.confluencepoets.com.

DRAGONFISH ARTS

Winthrop-based glass artist Chris Duke creates beautiful pieces for the home and garden. You can find Dragonfish Art at Methow Valley Goods and other local retailers. Email Chris at dragonfish_arts@ hotmail.com

EMILY POST POTTERY

Emily’s distinctive “sgraf fito” carved mugs, plates, large mixing bowls, tumblers, vases, and other handmade vessels are a reflection of her love of clay, nature, cooking and the Methow Valley. (509) 341-4710. Email Emily at www.emilypost.com.

CULLER STUDIO

Textile and surface design artist Sara Ashford uses solely natural dyes for her one-of-a-kind wearable & fine art pieces. Visit Sara’s studio and dye garden at TwispWorks and learn about her classes. Contact Sara at: (509) 3414042 or by email: cullerstudio@gmail.com.

EQPD

Honest Designs, Durable Construction. Building great bags in the Methow since 2013. LastBags, WideTotes, BasketCarry’s and more. Visit us on the TwispWorks Campusopen M-Sat 10-4 - www.eqpdgear.com

CULTIVATE SOAP CO.

Goat milk-based soap made with organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Each bar has over an ounce of goat milk and is procured using botanicals, herbs and clays that can help to alleviate all kinds of skin concerns and conditions. Free of palm oil as well as any synthetic colorants or fragrances. Email Elise at cultivatesoapco@gmail.com, visit her on Instagram @cultivatesoapco or her website www. cultivatesoapco.com

DOG PAW KNIVES

Career – bureaucrat turned knife maker, Phil Millam handcrafts custom hunting and kitchen knives for clients, using a range of materials and designs. Knife repairs too!

FIREWEED PRINT SHOP

Artist Laura Gunnip helps students of all ages engage in the radical act of creative self-knowledge through letterpress and printmaking classes. Fireweed Print Shop is a community resource as well as a retail space of Laura’s handprinted items. Visit Laura at her shop on the TwispWorks Campus and find Fireweed products at Methow Valley Goods.

FOXTAIL POTTERY

Foxtail Pottery’s distinctive dark colored stoneware clay body contrasts with lush glaze colors and highlights Mandy Shoger’s bold pattern designs. Her work is primarily functional and is designed for everyday use. Find her products on her website, www. foxtailpottery.com.

GARDNER GARDENS

Beekeeper Dave Sabold harvests beeswax from his backyard colonies to create Gardner Gardens Beeswax Skin Cream, using allnatural coconut, almond oils, and vitamin E. Available at Methow Valley retailers and Methow Valley Goods. Call Dave at (509) 9962522 or www.gardnergardens.com.

HARVEY’S HUMBLES

Twisp-based fiber artist Linda Harvey is a self-described “compulsive maker of things.” Linda’s iconic knit hats, booties and critters can be found at local farmers markets in the Methow Valley.

HIDDEN DRAWER DESIGNS

Hidden Drawer Designs offers archival prints of original artwork by Sarah Gilman. With drawings, paintings, and textual pieces, Sarah hopes to cultivate wonder in the everyday, and inspire more of us to make space for wildness, and for each other. Website: https://www.etsy.com/ shop/HiddenDrawerDesigns, Instagram @ HiddenDrawerDesigns.

HOMESTEAD CRAFT

Peggy Stansbury creates fun and whimsical characters for the Christmas and Halloween seasons along with nonseasonal frogs, chickens, rabbits, etc.  You can find her creations at Valley Goods store, Fall Art Walk, and bazaars in the Methow valley and Chelan.  You can reach her at homesteadcrafttwisp@gmail.com.

FOOD & GROCERY

BLUEBIRD GRAIN FARMS

Bluebird Grain Farms is your source for the finest 100% certified organic ancient grains, fresh-milled flour, and whole-grain blends. CSA monthly deliveries, gift boxes and more are available at www.bluebirdgrainfarms. com. Products also available at local retailers and bakeries. Facebook or Instagram @bluebirdgrainfarms. Email, info@ bluebirdgrainfarms.com. Phone, (509) 996-3526

CINNAMON TWISP BAKERY

Cinnamon Twisp Bakery features over 200 unique, perfected recipes including vegan and gluten free options. For over 28 years Cinnamon Twisp Bakery, with its delicious foods and impeccable service, has provided a gathering place for locals and a destination for tourists. Stop in today and pick up something delicious. Email, info@ cinnamontwispbakery.com.

DOUBLETREE FARM

Doubletree Farm employs dairy methods that have beneficial environmental impacts and humane animal husbandry at the root of its actions. Their vat pasteurized, nonhomogenized whole milk is available at stores throughout the Methow Valley and Okanogan.

HIGHWAY 20 HONEY

For over fifteen years this small family run apiary in Mazama harvests beautiful, golden honey made from pristine wildflower nectar. You can find Highway 20 Honey at Methow Valley retailers including Methow Valley Goods on the TwispWorks campus.

METHOW GOLD HONEY

Blane has been producing his Methow Gold Honey for forty years. From his apiary located on the banks of the Methow River, Blane's bees are free to enjoy a wide variety of wildflowers that are native to the Methow. Visit Blane at the Methow Valley Farmers market or get his honey at local retailers.

FOOD & GROCERY FOOD & GROCERY FOOD & GROCERY

HOTSPOT FIRE PITS

Tim Odell’s fire pits are locally made by craftspeople and skilled metalworkers dedicated to quality and longevity, with many of the fire pits made from recycled scrap steel. 1211 Cascade Dr. (Twisp) (509) 997-4766 www.hotspotfirepits.com.

INTERTWINED DESIGNS

Intertwined Designs produces high-quality, eco-friendly clothing out of their homebased studio in Mazama, WA. Find them locally at the MV Farmer’s Market and local retailers including the Methow Made Store at TwispWorks. Visit Intertwined Designs on-line or follow us on social media to learn about our process of creating sustainably made clothing. (360) 319-0342 www. intertwineddesigns.com.

METHOW VALLEY TEA

Methow Valley Tea blends focus on regionally grown herbs, soothing medicinal qualities, and simple herbal flavor profiles. Most ingredients are sourced from local and regional farms, or responsibly foraged by hand; or sourced from certified organic farms. Find Methow Valley Tea’s herbal blends at Glover Street Market, The Mazama Store, and Methow Valley Goods, or online at www.methowvalleytea.com.

ORCHARD HOUSE DOUGHNUTS & CHAI

Handcrafted doughnuts from our orchard to the market. Everything is made with a farmhouse-by-the-season sensibility joined to modern flavors and technique for unforgettable doughnuts and chai. We’re at the Methow Valley Farmers Market every Saturday. Look for our pop-ups in the winter. Our chai mix is sold at stores throughout the Methow. Instagram, @orchardhouse.methow and follow us on Facebook.

WILD PLUM FARM

At Wild Plum Farm, we specialize in producing high quality pork, chicken, and eggs. All our animals are raised on pasture using low-stress management practices. Visit our website www.thewildplumfarm. com.

KATIE SWANSON TEXTILES

Primarily a weaver since 2006, Katie creates wearables (scarves and shawls) and items for the home (rugs, throws, towels, and place mats). Her work can be seen at Winthrop Gallery at 237Riverside Ave., Winthrop, Confluence Gallery, 104Glover St., Twisp, and Methow Valley Goods on the Twispworks campus. Call or text (509) 846-3023 or email rks@methownet.com.

LIDIJA KAMANSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Lidija Kamansky is a Winthrop-based fine art landscape and nature photographer. Passion drives her to explore nature’s changing moods and seasons in the great outdoors and rural countryside’s with her camera. You can find her work locally at Methow Valley Goods and The Confluence or on her website at www.lkamansky.com.

LUCID GLASSWORKS

Custom, handblown, functional, drink ware made by Samantha Carlin. Available at select retailers, markets and on her website. Cell/ text (509)- 341-9102.  Find her website at www.lucidglassworks.com.

LUCINDA’S BOTANICAL SALVES

Healing salves that carry the perfumes and healing qualities of local plants:  clearing pine, moisturizing antiseptic and antiinflammatory cottonwood, nerve renewing St. John’s Wort, muscle relieving Arnica and more.  Available at Methow Valley Goods or by contacting (206) 550-3666. Find her website at www.reflexologyandsalves.com.

FOOD & GROCERY

MARCIA IVES POTTERY

Marcia encourages you to Eat, Drink and Be Merry with a piece of beautiful handmade pottery in your hands!  Her work can be found at private viewings in her studio, on Instagram, and at galleries and shops throughout the Methow Valley. On Instagram @ instagram.com/marciaraeives/, email her at marciaraeIves@gmail.com or call her at (206) 719-2389.

MCIVOR WOODWORKS

Sustainably harvested and locally sourced wood made into functional art to accompany your daily life—from serving bowls to furniture by Don McIvor. Available at the Winthrop Gallery, the Confluence Gallery, or by commission. (509) 997-9456 www. mcivorwoodworks.com

METHOW MUSINGS

Over three decades of teaching taught Boo Schneider to be open to new ideas, the joy of life-long learning, and to create. Using a jeweler’s grade of copper and stones such as labradorite, moonstones, pearls, agates, and more - Boo never designs the same pair of earrings twice. You can find Boo’s work at retailers throughout the Valley including Methow Valley Goods.

MITCHELLIMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Light, place and time are three photographic tenets Winthrop-based photographer Stephen Mitchell lives by. He is especially known for his talent capturing the Methow’s beautiful night skies as well as documenting Methow Valley events and happenings. You can find his website, MitchellImage photography at www.mitchellImage.com or call him at 360-391-2394.

BEVERAGES

BLUE STAR COFFEE ROASTERS

Artfully roasted coffees, including the awardwinning Espresso Blend, available at their coffee bar and roasting plant located at 1240 E Methow Valley Hwy, Twisp. Give them a ring at (509) 997-BLUE (2583) or visit their website at www.bluestarcoffeeroasters.com.

BOOTH CANYON ORCHARD

Stina Booth and John Richardson have been carrying on the Methow tradition of growing fabulous apples and pears in Carlton since 1995. In 2019 they started making dry, aged cider from all their fruit. Booth Canyon Orchard ciders are available at Methow Valley Goods, and at stores and restaurants throughout the Methow Valley. www. boothcanyonorchard.com.

LARIAT COFFEE ROASTERS

Award-winning coffees roasted in Winthrop. Try our fan favorites, Cowboy Mud, BarrelAged Limited Reserve or Black Colt Cold Brew. Visit our Winthrop store or order online we’ll ship to your door. Visit their retail location at 265 Riverside Ave in Winthrop, give them a call at 509-996-4240 or check out their website at www.lariatcoffee.com.

LOST RIVER WINERY

Lost River Winery is an award-winning family winery started in the Methow Valley in 2002. Lost River produces high quality wines at excellent prices. Visit our Tasting Room at 26 Highway 20 in Winthrop or purchase our wines at Valley Goods or retailers throughout the valley.

METHOW VALLEY CIDERHOUSE

The Methow Valley Ciderhouse is a family and dog friendly restaurant featuring our own award-winning ciders, as well as a selection of beers & wines on tap. Lunch and dinner with gluten free and vegan options. Live music Friday and Saturday nights, usually free. Check out their website at www. methowvalleyciderhouse.com.

MK OIL PAINTINGS

Margaret Kingston creates original landscapes in oil paint on canvas to share the powerful energy of the Methow Valley. She offers a Custom Commissioned Painting service from provided photos. Margaret has painted many pet portraits, a sailboat, and an airplane. Visit her website, www.mkoilpaintings. com, Instagram, @mkoilpaintings, email, mgtkingston@gmail.com.

MOLLY’S SOAP

Keeping the Methow clean since 1982, Molly’s Soap continues to make gentle, versatile, and long-lasting soaps. Time-tested recipes driven by homegrown herbs, natural ingredients, and nothin’ nasty. Delivered fresh from the farm to retailer’s valley wide. Email Gabby at info@mollyssoap.com, give her a call at 360-420-8132 or visit her website at www.mollyssoap.com.

BEVERAGES

OLD SCHOOLHOUSE BREWERY

Old Schoolhouse Brewery, “The Living Room of the Methow Valley” looks forward to welcoming you. Whether you visit the OSB Taproom at TwispWorks, our newly appointed Riverside Patio and Brewpub in Winthrop, or the vibrant Mazama Public House at the Mazama Trailhead, you’re bound to have a memorable experience, and we hope you can share it with friends. www. oldschoolhousebrewery.com.

WATERSHED SPIRITS, LLC

Gathered in early morning along the rivers of the Methow Watershed, our Elderflower Liqueur captures warm floral notes, citrus, and a hint of anise. 100% of profits from the sale of this product to benefit Methow Valley Non-Profits. Find Watershed Spirits at Hanks Harvest Foods in Twisp and the Wine Shed in Winthrop.

MOUNTAIN TOP ARTWORKS

A glass artist for 30 years, Laura Ruud started with stained glass then branched into fused glass and mosaics. She enjoys working on projects such as the entry way at Liberty Bell and mosaic at the Winthrop post office. Her husband, a maker of Native American Style flutes, uses her glass pieces as ornaments. Find her gift cards at various shops.

OCHRE AT HOME

The love of travel, textiles, and “doing” came together for Jan as OCHRE home goods. “Doing” started at a young age with her mother teaching her to sew and later became a career in art education and occupational therapy. Her pillows and table runners are handcrafted from curated textiles from around the globe. She can be contacted at jkittwinthrop@gmail.com.

PA’NANA SOAP

Carly Reiser is the positive force behind the PA’Nana Soap Co. PA’Nana makes 100% hand crafted, individually designed, cold-process, small batch soaps right here in the Methow Valley. Available at Methow Valley Goods and on her website – www.panana-soap-co. square.site.

PASTIME LEATHER CO.

Pastime Leather Co. makes a variety of highquality hand-made leather goods since 2015. We offer wallets, card holders, field note journals, tote bags/purses and more. We can work with your business to produce coasters, menu covers, card holders, etc. Email www. pastimehandbuilt@gmail.com, website, www.pastimeleatherco.com, Instagram @ pastime_leather_co.

PAT LEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY

Pat’s goal is to bring you closer to the love that our planet and creatures deserve through her nature photography. See her photos in 4 X 6 cards at the following locations: Methow Valley Goods in TwispWorks, Winthrop Mountain Store, and the Mazama Store. Website, https:// patleighphotography.mypixieset.com/. Email, leighpatricia1@gmail.com.

PETER NAWROT WOODWORKING

Peter is a wood explorer and lifelong woodworker who has spent countless hours searching for and salvaging unusual dead and dying trees from Washington state. He seeks to uncover and highlight the stunning grain patterns of these trees through artwork, custom furniture, and sculpture. Come see his current pieces and his shop/studio at TwispWorks or send an email to woodrevealed@gmail.com.

RAMBLE AND ROAM

Lauren Souza combines modern day style with the age-old desire to be untamed and liberated. Raw crystals, leather, gemstones, and base metal come together to create uncomplicated yet stylish jewelry that sparks a connection with nature. You can shop at www.rambleandroamdesigns. com and follow along on Instagram at @ rambleandroamdesigns.

RED UMBRELLA DESIGN

Red Umbrella Designs creates PNWinspired designs for you & your home and aims to inspire all humans to seek beauty, keep hope, and give kindness. Available at select local retailers and online at www. redumbrelladesign.com.

ROSALEE DE LA FORÊT, LLC.

Rosalee de la Forêt is a Methow Valley based herbalist and author. Her books, Alchemy of Herbs and Wild Remedies, share trustworthy herbal information alongside enticing recipes for medicine and food. Find Rosalee on YouTube, Podcast apps, Instagram, and her website: www.herbswithrosalee.com.

SEWN BY ELISE

For the love of fabric, Elise designs and sews whenever possible.  Her reversible children’s dresses and overalls, durable children’s and adult aprons, and eclectic potholders can be found at Methow Valley Good’s, Twisp Art Walks, and Methow Valley holiday bazaars.  Potholders can also be found at Aspen Grove in Winthrop.  Contact Elise at knightelise18@ gmail.com.

SMILING WOODS YURTS

Smiling Woods Yurts is a family-and-friendowned business in Winthrop, offering panelized kit building solutions of all sizes - from 320 to over 1000 square feet. Their wooden yurt cabins are durable, energy efficient, and aesthetically appealing while using high quality and environmentally friendly materials. Each kit is fully customized and engineered for each site. www. smilingwoodsyurts.com 509-996-9878.

SUSAN SNOVER HANDWEAVING

Susan has been weaving for 47 years. In years past, she wove special orders for customers and interior designers, weaving about 300 rag rugs a year. Over her career, she estimates she kept 31,500 pounds of fabric out of the landfill. Her products are sold at Methow Valley Goods, Confluence Gallery, Winthrop Gallery, and the Mazama Store. Email, susansnover@gmail.com, phone, 509-919-1876.

TRUE NORTH LETTERPRESS

Cards and journals from True North Letterpress are made with care and attention to the craft of letterpress printing. TNLP’s hand-printed greetings are enjoyable to give and receive. Visit their shop for a curated selection of delightful paper goods. Inperson: 109 N. Glover St. in Twisp (509) 4491081 or Online: www.truenorthletterpress. com

UPFASHIONED

With upfashioned, designer Teresa Mitchell aims to address harmful elements of the fashion industry while celebrating the beauty and enduring quality of extraordinary textiles by giving them a second life. Products include pillows, dog jackets, handbags, satchels, totes, travel bags and more. Instagram @upfashionedwa, website, www.upfashioned.com.

WILD HORSE LEATHERS

Wild Horse Leathers is the brand name for Tamar Behl’s one-of-a-kind creations. She’s been creating with leather and textiles for a few decades. From the love of textiles, hunting for them, sewing with them, and embellishing to add a unique flair. It’s what she does in her home studio for fun and pleasure. Behl is grateful to have the Methow Valley Goods to display and sell her creations!

Woven, sewn, dyed

METHOW CREATORS BRING FIBERS AND TEXTILES TO LIFE

BY SANDRA STRIEBY

The Methow Valley is home to a thriving community of textile artists practicing any array of methods. Here’s a sampler of local textile makers and their

many offerings.

SARA ASHFORD, CULLER STUDIO

In a studio where work surfaces and supplies rub elbows with projects in progress and finished textile pieces, Sara Ashford combines art and science in an ongoing series of

experiments that make her work space a living montage of color and texture.

Natural dyes and natural fabrics are the foundation of Ashford’s work. She learned to weave when she moved to the Methow Valley 42 years ago. That led to a love of textiles. Working with natural dyes came next “and then they all

married together,” said Ashford. She continues to study and learn, trying a variety of techniques. Saying she “probably would get bored” if she weren’t exploring multiple avenues, Ashford says she’s “always studying, experimenting. I’ve learned a lot by trial and error.” She’s also learned through more focused study. Currently, she’s honing

Photo courtesy of Sara Ashford

Sara Ashford established a "dye garden" adjacent to her TwispWorks studio.

her grasp of chemistry, developing a deeper knowledge of the constituents of different plants so she can understand how to use each one to create colorfast dyes.

Eleven years ago, Ashford established a dye garden adjacent to her TwispWorks studio. She uses dyes from the plants she grows there on re-purposed clothing, dye-ready silk scarves, and fabric that she’ll craft into wearable art. She also uses leaves and flowers to transfer color directly to cloth, using techniques such as pounding plant materials until they release their pigments or steaming rolled fabric on which she’s arranged the pieces of vegetation that she’s using as color sources.

One favorite dye plant is Japanese indigo, which Ashford uses in many ways: over-dying second-hand clothing — which she may also decorate with washable, color-fast

ink — using the rich color to dye folded or tied cloth, and painting it onto fabric.

Making the pigment involves fermenting an aqueous extract from fresh leaves, then precipitating the suspended color, which can be dried or refrigerated for later use. A pigment vat in the Culler Studio storage and processing room has been working since last summer; Ashford feeds and stirs the brew to keep it alive, much as one would tend sourdough starter.

Ashford feels strongly about using high-quality natural textiles, buying carefully-sourced cloth from “a couple places I can trust,” she said. Those sources provide hand-woven fair-trade silks produced by tribal communities in India using traditional techniques.

“A lot of these are wild silks,” she said, created using methods

Photos courtesy of Sara Ashford

Sara Ashford use dyes from plants she grows to create "wearable art."

Ashford insists on using high-quality natural textiles.

developed over more than 2,000 years. “Tribal people need that economy,” she said, and the production process is “very sustainable.”

Ashford’s dedication to natural materials grounds her diverse endeavors, allowing her to create work that’s good for people and the earth while giving rein to her active imagination.

You can find Ashford’s work at The Confluence: Art In Twisp and at Methow Valley Goods on the TwispWorks campus. She also welcomes visitors to her studio and dye garden at TwispWorks.

ELISE KNIGHT, SEWN BY ELISE

Elise Knight learned to sew in a seventh-grade home economics class and has been practicing the craft ever since. She feels fortunate to have grown up before technology had such a strong grip on daily life.

“I did a lot of hand stitching,” she said. “It’s what I would sit and do — a very meditative thing to do.”

Although she no longer does hand

work, she finds machine sewing infuses her days with the same calm, focused quality.

“I started making children’s clothing 30 years ago,” said Knight, who sold her wares at the Christmas Bazaar in Twisp. It’s only in the last year that her work has been available at Methow Valley Goods. “Her business has skyrocketed” since then, according to TwispWorks Retail Operations and Events Manager Lindsey Bryson.

Both vintage and new fabrics have homes in Knight’s stash. A longtime devotee of second-hand shops, she won’t hesitate to cut up an old dress and create something new if she likes the fabric. Her fabric choices are inspired in part by images of women in Africa and India who dress in fabrics that bring beauty to the stark landscapes in which they live.

“The women take care with themselves and their clothing,” she says, expressing the “human spirit of taking care” of what’s in their control.

Children enjoy Knight’s brightly-printed dresses and reversible overalls, she said. A part-time teacher at Little Star in Twisp, Knight has observed that children pay close attention to what they and their peers are wearing.

“It’s amazing at what an early age kids are into what’s on their clothes,” she says. “They love it when you remark on their clothing.”

Parents appreciate the handmade garments, too. In spite of the ready availability of beautiful and practical knitted clothes for young children, mothers have told her they want to get back to woven fabrics like the ones she uses, said Knight.

Knight’s hand-made clothes are long-lived. “I like to make them with the idea that they’re going to last through many generations,” she said. She’s found clothes she made 25 years ago at the senior center’s thrift store, ready for new wearers.

In addition to children’s clothing, Knight’s current repertoire includes aprons and potholders. She continues to explore other ideas — in part to keep up with demand from local fans who are eager for more of her work, in part as an expression of her own creative curiosity.

“I feel very lucky in life that I have something that excites me so much … honored that I have this drive,” said Knight. Each beautifully

Photo courtesy of Elise Knight Elise Knight's hand-crafted children's clothing is popular at Methow Valley Goods.

Photo courtesy of Elise Knight Knight uses both vintage and new fabrics to make her clothing,

crafted piece carries that excitement into the world.

Knight’s work is available at Methow Valley Goods on the TwispWorks campus, and Aspen Grove in Winthrop carries her potholders. She also participates in twice-yearly art walks, and the annual Christmas Bazaar in Twisp.

SUSAN SNOVER CUSTOM HANDWEAVING

Susan Snover uses mostly recycled materials to weave functional textiles — rag rugs, dish towels, baby blankets. As a professional weaver in Seattle, she made 300 rugs a year. Now retired and living in the Methow Valley, she’s producing fewer pieces, but she still loves fabric — “the color and the texture of it and the fact of re-using something that would be thrown away,” she says.

Soon after Snover moved to

Seattle in the 1970s, a friend lent her a loom. She took a six-week weaving course and began a career — one that allowed her to work from home while raising her children, and to engage her love of color.

“I don’t believe in waste,” said Snover, who figures she’s kept more than 15 tons of fabric out of landfills by using discarded clothing and bed linens and scrap fabric. She estimates that one of her largest pieces, a rug measuring 10 by 16 feet, used 160 pairs of jeans.

In the Methow Valley, Snover has found the senior center’s thrift store to be a rich source of materials. When we spoke, she was preparing to weave a 60 inch by 80 inch rug for a customer’s beach house, and had found all the materials she needed — sheets in pale shades of green, blue, sand and white — in the rummage room on a single day.

For Snover, working from home

has not meant working in solitude. She’s been active in the regional and national weaving communities for decades. In mid-June, she was in Bend, Oregon, attending the bi-annual conference of the Association of Northwest Weavers’ Guilds and learning new techniques like cedar basket making and needle felting. She’s a member of the Methow Valley Spinners & Weavers guild, and encourages anyone who’s interested to attend a meeting and “be part of the textile community.”

Snover now owns three looms — down from seven during her days as a professional weaver. “Generally, I have all three looms warped and in operation at the same time,” she said, which lets her decide what to work on each day based on customer orders or her own inclination.

She does less custom work than she did in her heyday, partly because her access to materials is more limited than it was when she lived in Seattle. “I tell people ‘I will do a custom rug for you if I can easily find the stuff,’” she said.

So far this year, Snover has woven 33 rugs and estimates she’s kept 107 pounds of fabric out of landfills. That’s a lot of functional beauty created by someone who “retired” some 20 years ago.

You can find Snover’s work at

The Confluence: Art In Twisp, the Winthrop Gallery, and The Mazama Store, and at Methow Valley Goods on the TwispWorks campus.

Photo courtesy of Susan Snover Susan Snover uses mostly recycled materials to make functional art.

Photo courtesy of Susan Snover Snover spent many years as a professional weaver in Seattle.

A special blend of traditioninnovation,

LOST RIVER WINERY DEVELOPS NEW OFFERINGS WHILE STICKING TO COMMUNITY ROOTS

BY ANN MCCREARY

Lost River Winery, the Methow Valley’s homegrown boutique winery, is moving in new

directions under new ownership, while maintaining the traditions that have served it well.

In 2002 John Morgan and Barbara House began making wine in a barn at their home on Lost River Road in

Mazama, hence the winery name. In spring of 2022, Rick and Joanne Coursey, owners of a small vineyard in Oregon, bought the winery. They are continuing to make the wines that are popular with Lost River Winery’s patrons, and they are bringing their own vision — and

grapes — to the winery.

“One of the reasons we bought the winery was because it had done such a great job for 20 years. So we definitely wanted to maintain all the good work they’ve done,” said Rick Coursey.

Under the new owners, Lost

Photos by Steve Mitchell

River Winery retains its character as a small, family-owned business with close connections to the community.

“The winery has been here 21 years now. We definitely want to be good members of the community,” Coursey said.

Among Lost River Winery’s longstanding contributions to the Methow Valley is a program that donates proceeds from sale of its Community Red wine to local charitable organizations. For every bottle of the red blend sold, 5% of the price is set aside for community causes.

The Courseys plan to supplement the Community Red program by offering a new Community White wine, “for people who don’t care for red wine,” Coursey said. The new Community White blend will be available later this summer, he said. Both blends vary somewhat from year-to-year, and that’s part of the fun of these particular wines, Coursey said. “Depending on what we harvest, it will be a blend of that. Every year is just a little different depending on the grapes we bring in, and how the wine turns out.”

The Courseys will carry on the winery’s previous practice of reviewing community needs each year to determine where to donate the wine revenues. “We’re talking to our customers, and our stakeholders, to see what is needed,” Coursey said.

DIVERSE LINEUP

The Courseys are making 15 wines that include Lost River Winery’s signature blends and varietal wines. “The lineup has not changed because it really is a great, diverse lineup of wines. We decided we would not change anything, but enhance or add on to the product line,” Coursey said.

The new owners are excited about adding a new red wine, a blend of 50% cabernet sauvignon and 50% Syrah, called Leeward.

“The cabernet sauvignon and Syrah were made by John (Morgan) in 2021 ... as individual varieties. Our staff this winter developed the idea for a new red. We blended and bottled the wine this spring and it is our first red released this vintage, but also our first new red as a winery,” Coursey said.

Leeward made its debut in the Lost River Winery tasting room in

June. “We’re getting very positive feedback. Our testing in the tasting room looks like it will be extremely popular,” Coursey said. “It’s a very popular blend in places like Australia ... fruity but on the more structured side.”

In addition to the new Community White, the Courseys have also added a sauvignon blanc to the winery’s product line. “The winery has always been more red-focused,” Coursey said. “We would like to add more white wines.”

A couple of wines that were previously available only from retailers in the Puget Sound area, Salish Sea White and Western Red, are now available in the winery’s tasting room, he said.

Coursey is looking forward to releasing another new red wine in about two years. The wine will be a cabernet sauvignon, made with grapes from the Red Mountain AVA (American Viticultural Area), located near Benton City.

“Red Mountain is renowned throughout Washington as

Joanne and Rick Coursey bought Lost River Winery in 2022.

Grapes are processed at the Horizon Flats production facility.

producing the best cabernet sauvignon,” said Coursey. Lost River Winery was able to land a contract with a Red Mountain vineyard, and the grapes will be crushed in

October at Lost River’s production facility on Horizon Flats near Winthrop. “Contracts are hard to get, so we were definitely happy about that,” Coursey said. The wine will

be in the barrel for up to two years before its release.

The winery sources grapes from about a dozen vineyards in Orondo, Mattawa, Benton City, Pasco and Walla Walla. It is also getting malbec and merlot grapes from the 6-acre vineyard owned by the Courseys in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, in the Walla Walla AVA. Their grapes were incorporated in Lost River’s 2021vintage, the last vintage made before the Courseys bought the winery.

Lost River Winery’s production decreased while the winery was for sale, and the Courseys have been ramping it back up. The winery is producing about 5,000 cases of wine per year, about double the production of the

2021 harvest, Coursey said.

PRODUCTION FACILITY

With the sale of the winery, production of red wines was moved from Morgan’s barn in Mazama to the warehouse facility on Horizon Flats, where white wine was being made. “Now we do all the wines on Horizon Flats,” Coursey said.

The 5,000-square-foot facility has two barrel rooms that hold about 300 barrels of red wine, a room with large stainless steel tanks for white wine production, as well as storage areas and space for crushing grapes.

“In the fall [of 2022] when we did our first crush, we expanded production,” Coursey said. “We brought

The tasting room on Highway 20 in Winthrop is a popular stop.

Lost River has been producing wines since 2002.

Lost River has added a new blend called "Leeward" to its lineup.

in 80 tons of grapes and had a crew of four to six working hard. We added more red wine fermenters, more stainless steel tanks for whites, and brought in new barrels for aging.”

The first crush presented some challenges, Coursey said. “Our grapes were about three weeks late, because of the cold spring, and snow came early to Winthrop. Our staff was out in the snow crushing grapes.”

This fall the winery may crush up to 100 tons of grapes, which would produce about 7,000 cases of wine. “I just hate to run out of wine,” Coursey said.

The new owners have been

fortunate to “inherit one production member” and to find other employees in the valley who have experience in wineries to help during the busy periods, Coursey said.

Bottling has been done at the Lost River Winery tasting room, located on Highway 20 at the west entrance to Winthrop. That part of production will be consolidated at the Horizon Flats facility, Coursey said.

The tasting room attracts visitors throughout the year, but particularly during the summer season. It had been open every day in summer, and three or four days a week the rest of the year. The Courseys have expanded the hours

to seven days throughout the year. The tasting room includes an outdoor patio, a barrel room and the winery offices.

They Courseys are looking for ways to expand the winery’s Wine Club membership and activities for wine club members. Wine Club members pay for a case of wine to be shipped to their homes, or picked up, each year. In return they get discounts on wine purchases.

Coursey said the winery is making plans for tours of the Horizon Flats production facility for wine club members and the public, as well as other activities such as special tastings, events with live music,

and winemaker dinners. He said he and Joanne also want to expand marketing more broadly throughout Okanogan County.

“We are always appreciating feedback from the public about how we can improve our wine, and what the public is looking for,” he said.

The Courseys had early careers in wine and hospitality before working for many years in government. Rick has studied enology and viticulture at Purdue and U.C. Davis. He handles operations at Lost River Winery, while Joanne is in charge of the financial side, and works with management of the Oregon vineyard.

Willow Brook Farm

Certified Organic Produce and Cultured Foods

Lovingly Grown and Crafted in the Methow Valley

Find us weekly at the Methow Valley Farmer's Market!

Methow Made DIRECTORY

emilypostpottery.com  (509) 341-4710

emilyapost@gmail.com

confluencegallery.org

(509) 997-2787

info@confluencegallery.org

104 Glover Street S., Twisp

LucidGlassworks.com

(509) 341-9102

Instagram: @mvjewelerscollective (509) 449-3965

mvjewelerscollective@gmail.com

502 S. Glover Street, Building N., Suite 1, Twisp, WA 98856

boothcanyonorchard.com (509) 997-0063

Stina@BoothCanyonOrchard.com

(509) 449-2764

3baires@gmail.com

North Glover Healing Center, Twisp

facebook.com/lafondalopeztwisp

(509) 997-0247

102 N methow valley HY20, Twisp, WA 98856

lostriverwinery.com

(509) 996-2888

26 Highway 20 Winthrop, WA 98862

EMILY POST POTTERY

Handcrafted ceramic wares inspired by nature. For yourself, and for your home.

SEE AD, PG 22

CONFLUENCE GALLERY

Since 1988, The Confluence has brought artists, students, and viewers together to enrich the lives of all. We proudly feature artists of Okanogan County and beyond.

SEE AD, PG 2

LUCID GLASSWORKS

Hand blown glass studio offering functional glassware featuring “Dot” Tumblers. Studio hours by appointment only.

SEE AD, PG 2

METHOW VALLEY JEWELERS COLLECTIVE

From sleek to chunky, classic to funky, find your artifact at "The Collective" featuring handmade jewelry and art from 9 jewelers and local artists.

SEE AD, PG 5

BOOTH CANYON ORCHARD

Sparkling wine style ciders brewed on farm from our own charismatic apples and pears. Available at stores and restaurants throughout the Methow valley.

SEE AD, PG 24

HORSE OF A DIFFERENT COLOR

Clinical Herbalist. I offer consultations including dietary recommendations and custom formulated herbal remedies. I can work in collaboration with your other healthcare practitioners.

SEE AD, PG 16

LA FONDA LOPEZ

LaFonda Lopez Restaurant is family-friendly and offers a variety of foods: Mexican, pasta dishes, curries, burgers, vegetarian and daily specials. We serve an array of margaritas and cocktails. Summer hours 12-8, Monday through Saturday, with patio seating.SEE AD, PG 24

LOST RIVER WINERY

The Lost River Winery is a boutique, family-owned winery well-known for their proprietary blends including Cedarosa, Community Red, Massif, Rainshadow and Cote-Wall.

SEE AD, PG 24

Artists & Artisans

Goods

(509) 341-9345

smithgcasey@gmail.com

523 State Rte 20, Winthrop, WA 98862

mollyssoap.com

(360) 420-8132

ryzowines.com

(509) 557-0788

hello@ryzowines.com

Glover Street, Twisp, WA 98856

willowbrookorganics.com

(509) 997-9077

willowbrookorganics@gmail.com

39 Twisp Carlton Rd., Carlton

METHOW VALLEY FOOD SHED

Methow Valley FoodShed is an online market and food hub located in NorthCentral WA on the eastern slopes of the North Cascades. Through our online store, locally grown and crafted food from a variety of regional farms and food producers can be ordered and picked up weekly in Winthrop and Twisp.

SEE AD, PG 20

MOLLY'S SOAPS

Handmade in the Methow since 1982. Gentle, versatile, and long lasting. Time-tested recipes driven by homegrown herbs and natural ingredients.

SEE AD, PG 24

RYZO WINES

RYZO Tasting Room in downtown Twisp on Glover Street serves low intervention, acid-driven wines out of the Pacific Northwest. Wine flights, glass pours, and bottles available, as well as small plates and other beverages, both alcoholic and NA. Family friendly, open Thursdays and Fridays from 3-8pm and Saturdays from 12-8pm.

SEE AD, PG 2

WILLOW BROOK FARM

High-vibe, nutrient-dense, certified organic produce and cultured foods grown with Love in the beautiful Methow Valley.

SEE AD, PG 20

Radio

Reflexology

methowpress.com

(509) 997-ROOT

97.5 FM

reflexologyandsalves.com  (206) 550-3666

lucinda@lucindatear.com

Reflexology

Promote well being, alleviate stress, physical pain, anxiety and fatigue. Help your mind, body and spirit work together.

Lucinda Tear

206-550-3666

www.reflexologyandsalves.com

For events & complete info on the Winthrop Library celebration, visit WINTHROPLIBRARYFRIENDS.ORG/EVENTS

METHOW PRESS

Methow Press is a small full-royalty publisher designed to deliver high-quality ebooks, audio books, and traditional perfect-bound, case-laminate, and dust-jacketed books to Washington State’s Methow Valley… and around the world.

SEE AD, PG 24

KTRT

The Methow Valley’s own independent radio station, featuring an eclectic mix of music and programming.

SEE AD, PG 2

LUCINDA TEAR/REFLEXOLOGY

Awaken your senses and integrate your body.

SEE AD, PG 16, AND PG 22