You've Got Craft: Olive Branch & Co. breathes life into everyday through calligraphy

In anticipation of Got Craft?’s holiday edition, taking place from December 10 to 11 at the Pipe Shop Building (115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver), we’re getting to know some of the fair’s 80-plus independent designers and makers.

Today, we meet Melissa Chan, owner and calligrapher at Olive Branch & Co.

Who are you

My name is Melissa and I’m the calligrapher, designer, and owner of Olive Branch & Co. 

What’s your shtick

As a calligrapher, what I do is a mix of writing and drawing letters. I design all of my cards, prints, and other paper goodies by hand, using pointed pen or brushes.

I’m a big believer that words are powerful and can give life or death, hope or despair, so my hope is to use beautifully drawn words to breathe life into the recipient and to give the card-writer or gift-giver an opportunity to do that as well.

I also just really love the art of calligraphy: the sound of the nib scratching against the paper, the glisten of wet ink as it slowly dries.

I love that calligraphy, as an art, forces you to be slow and meditative and loving in each and every stroke—all which feels rare in today’s fast-paced culture. 

My ideal stocking stuffer

Our 2017 calendar would be a sweet stocking stuffer, especially for those in your life who love flowers and books. (A winning combination, in my personal opinion!)

Each month features a different quote about the love of reading accompanied with a painted wreath and there’s space to note down your reading list for the month.

Once the year is done, you can cut the bottom off and you’ll have 12 prints! 

This year, I’m gifting…

craftedvan’s bookmarks! As a book lover myself, I love their cute and creative bookmarks and getting to share these with fellow like-minded friends and family.

They have a huge assortment and the ladies behind craftedvan are incredibly sweet and friendly. I love getting to support them!