Three days ago Felt reached a milestone: 2000 registered users. I was moved to reflect on how far Felt has come in just 18 months and how exciting the future looks. It also occurred to me that 2000 people have a significant voice and might like the opportunity to use it.

On February 28 the Guilt Upon Accusation law Section 92A is due to come into effect unless immediate action is taken by the National Party. The new law calls for internet disconnection based on accusations of copyright infringement without a trial and without any evidence held up to court scrutiny.

Wondering how this affects you? Well for example, it means that if someone accused me, even falsely, of copyright infringement, Felt would be removed from the internet without question. If this sounds as ridiculous to you as it does to me, sign the petition and find out what else you can do to help our MPs make a good decision at creativefreedom.org.nz. Felt will be taking part in the Internet Blackout on February 23 in protest against Section 92A.

"So many people tut and say "Someone should do something", but so few step forward and say "...and that someone is me." –Terry Pratchett

And while I'm up on my soapbox...

It seems timely to make mention of the distinctly Kiwi flavour Felt is developing. It's great to see a selection of high quality handcrafted items with a sense of Kiwi pride (some subtle, some...not so much).

From left to right: elegant koru designs in an oval pendant by laserline; the ultimate in patriotic hats by wildcoast; always remember your place with a Kiwiana necklace by blackswan; a modern twist on the traditional tiki by islandstyle; upcycling at its finest, a new look from old currency by forthebirds; and a pretty pukeko poncho by bellathreads.

Featured seller: rethreads
Based in Oxford, Canterbury, Briar has exciting plans for her clothing label Rethreads. Read more...

Recent additions

Laptop Satchel by beanbags

Plucky clucky chicken by redflax

Girls' skirts by olivemonkey

After a successful launch earlier this month, Crafty Business returns to Churchill's Public House in Christchurch at 7pm on Monday 2 March. Find out more on the website.

World Sweet World, issue 5
Available Monday 2 March, don't forget to get your copy on Felt!

With all the talk of the global downturn and economic strife, it's easy to get caught up in the doom and gloom and overlook the great things happening on a small scale - the opportunities to buy and sell locally, the gorgeous products that are being made right here at home by people you know, and the sense of community that comes with supporting each other's ventures.

While there may be tough times ahead, there are also exciting times. I look forward to seeing Felt reach new milestones as New Zealand's creative community flourishes.

Happy making,