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Making Things as Wellness: Why Americans Are Choosing Clay, Glass, and Metals Over Screens
SAN ANTONIO, TexasAmericans are putting down their phones and picking up hammers, kilns, and torches. The trend has a name in wellness circles: analog hobbies. And the numbers behind it are hard to ignore. Seventy-one percent of Americans now identify as crafters, according to Mintel’s 2025 US Arts and Crafts Consumer Report, up from 62 percent just […]
SAN ANTONIO, Texas
Americans are putting down their phones and picking up hammers, kilns, and torches.
The trend has a name in wellness circles: analog hobbies. And the numbers behind it are hard to ignore. Seventy-one percent of Americans now identify as crafters, according to Mintel’s 2025 US Arts and Crafts Consumer Report, up from 62 percent just five years ago. The global arts and crafts market reached $44.6 billion last year and is projected to more than double to $106.6 billion by 2034. Within that boom, the pottery studio experience market alone is growing at 8.7 percent annually, and that doesn’t include the exploding glass fusing, casting, and blowing market or the blademaking, metalsmithing, and jewelry categories.

But the growth is not just about art. It is about mental health.
Nearly half of U.S. adults reported experiencing stress in the past year and are actively turning away from screens, seeking creative outlets to cope. Psychology Today recently identified analog hobbies as “the new self-care trend,” citing benefits that include nervous system regulation, focused attention, and relief from the constant stimulation of digital devices. Searches for “analog hobbies” on the Michaels craft store website surged 136 percent in the past six months. Seventy-five percent of American adults completed at least one crafting project last year, up from 62 percent in 2019.
At Kiln Frog, a woman-owned Texas-based e-commerce company that sells kilns, forges, and all types of studio equipment for clay, glass, and metalwork, this shift has been building for years.
“This trend is unmistakable. Since the beginning of the pandemic era, there has been tremendous growth in the share of hobby or analog-crafter customers. These crafters are different from customers in the pre-pandemic era who were exploring art as a business. These new-era customers are seeking “making” as their refuge, not as a potential revenue source. ,” said Gail Stouffer, founder of Kiln Frog.com, and author of Kiln Academy – The Ultimate Guide to Kilns and Ovens. “They are parents setting up a studio in the garage. Retirees who want something meaningful to do with their hands. Younger people who are deliberately choosing to spend their evenings making something real instead of scrolling.”
Gail Stouffer, who holds BFA and MFA degrees in Art Education and has spent more than 20 years teaching technique to artists around the world, founded Kiln Frog in 2010 from a glass-and-metalsmithing supply gallery in San Antonio. What began as a kiln-focused retailer has expanded to serve potters, glass artists, and a fast-growing community of metalworkers and knife makers. Her book, Kiln Academy – The Ultimate Guide to Kilns and Ovens, is endorsed by kiln manufacturers and has quickly become the go-to guide for the industry.
Beyond Clay: The Full Spectrum of Creative Wellness
The wellness benefits of hands-on making are not limited to pottery. Glass fusing, metalsmithing, enameling, and blacksmithing all share the same core appeal: focused, tactile, screen-free work that produces something tangible.
Stouffer has watched the customer base evolve and how it is reshaping itself in real time.
“The person calling us today looks a lot like the person who called us ten years ago. Just as new to kilns, just as full of questions, just as unsure of what they need. That part has not really changed,” said Stouffer. “What has changed is how many of them there are. The volume has grown exponentially, and the reason they are reaching out is different. A decade ago, most callers were thinking about whether they could turn this into a business. Today, almost nobody opens with that. They want to know what it will feel like to spend a Saturday in their garage making something with their hands. They are after the process itself, the quiet, the focus, the mental clarity. The finished piece is almost a side effect.”
The home studio trend, accelerated by post-pandemic lifestyle shifts, has been particularly strong. Stouffer has responded by expanding Kiln Frog’s educational resources and launching KilnAcademy.com, which includes kiln-focused educational videos, digital downloads of activities checklists, and Stouffer’s 300+ page The Ultimate Guide to Kilns and Ovens (endorsed by the presidents of leading kiln manufacturers: Evenheat Kilns, Jen-Ken Kilns, Hot Shot Ovens, Olympic Kilns, and Paragon Industries). She is a frequent visiting lecturer at online venues and group meetings, including her Kiln Academy workshops offered through Bullseye Glass
About Kiln Frog
Kiln Frog is an online destination for kilns, ovens, furnaces, and related equipment in the United States. Founded in 2010 by Gail Stouffer in San Antonio, Texas, Kiln Frog serves potters,, glass artists, metalworkers, and knife makers nationwide. The company is known for its industry-leading educational content and commitment to customer trust, earning a 4.9 out of 5-star rating from more than 900 reviews. Learn more at kilnfrog.com.
Contact details:
Organization: Kiln Frog
Website URL: kilnfrog.com
Name: Gail Stouffer
Email Address: [email protected]
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COSMarketing Agency Showcases Marketing Solutions Designed for Modern Soft Washing Businesses
Winter Park, FloridaIndustry-focused growth strategies help exterior cleaning businesses strengthen market visibility, build credibility with commercial decision-makers, improve local search performance, and attract more qualified opportunities from commercial properties, facility managers, property management companies, and high-end residential clients.
Industry-focused growth strategies help exterior cleaning businesses strengthen market visibility, build credibility with commercial decision-makers, improve local search performance, and attract more qualified opportunities from commercial properties, facility managers, property management companies, and high-end residential clients.
Winter Park, Florida
As competition continues to grow across the exterior cleaning industry, COSMarketing Agency is highlighting its comprehensive marketing solutions designed to help modern soft washing businesses improve online visibility, generate more qualified leads, and support long-term business growth.
Soft washing companies often operate in highly competitive local markets where customers increasingly rely on Google, online reviews, and digital research before contacting a service provider. Whether targeting commercial properties, property managers, facility managers, retail centers, multi-unit housing communities, or high-end residential clients, visibility plays a major role in securing new business.

Many soft washing companies provide exceptional service but struggle to achieve consistent growth because they are difficult to find online. Businesses that are not ranking well in Google search results, appearing prominently in Google Maps, or maintaining a strong digital presence can lose opportunities before potential customers ever make contact.
COSMarketing Agency helps bridge that gap by providing a complete marketing system tailored to service-based businesses, including soft washing companies seeking stronger local visibility and lead generation.
“Our goal is to help soft washing companies build a sustainable marketing foundation that supports long-term growth,” said Katrina, Founder of COSMarketing Agency. “Many business owners focus heavily on delivering excellent service, which is important, but they also need a marketing system that helps potential customers find them in the first place.”
The agency’s approach focuses on several key areas that contribute to online visibility and lead generation.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps soft washing companies improve their rankings in Google search results and appear when potential customers search for exterior cleaning services. Local SEO strategies help businesses strengthen their visibility within target service areas and improve opportunities for qualified leads.
Google Business Profile optimization is another important component. Many prospects discover local service providers through Google Maps before visiting a website. Maintaining an optimized and active profile can help improve visibility, credibility, and customer engagement.
Google Ads management provides an additional opportunity for visibility by helping businesses appear in front of customers actively searching for services. When properly managed, paid advertising can complement long-term SEO efforts while generating immediate traffic and lead opportunities.
Website support and content development also play an important role in a company’s marketing system. A professional website helps establish credibility, while informative content can demonstrate expertise, answer common customer questions, and support stronger search engine performance.
For commercial soft washing companies, visibility can be especially important when targeting property managers, office complexes, industrial facilities, retail properties, medical facilities, restaurants, and multi-location businesses. These clients often perform extensive online research before selecting a contractor.
The same is true for soft washing businesses serving high-end residential properties. Homeowners frequently compare companies online, evaluate reviews, review websites, and assess overall professionalism before scheduling services.
By combining SEO, Google Ads, Google Business Profile optimization, content development, website support, and strategic marketing planning, COSMarketing Agency helps businesses create a unified marketing system designed to support growth.
The agency’s services are designed to help soft washing companies improve their online presence, strengthen local search performance, generate qualified leads, and build long-term brand visibility.
“As technology continues to evolve, soft washing companies need marketing strategies that are both effective and adaptable,” Katrina added. “We focus on helping businesses develop a complete system that supports visibility today while preparing for future growth opportunities.”
Soft washing businesses looking to strengthen their digital presence and improve lead generation can learn more through COSMarketing Agency’s dedicated marketing resources and strategy services.
Book a FREE Marketing Strategy Meeting
Soft washing companies interested in improving their SEO, local visibility, Google Business Profile performance, website effectiveness, content strategy, or lead generation efforts are encouraged to schedule a FREE Marketing Strategy Meeting.
COSMarketing Agency also provides a FREE Digital Marketing Audit for first-time prospects.
Name: Katrina Tecxidor
Phone: 407‑334‑9378
Email: [email protected]
Website: COSMarketingAgency.com
About COSMarketing Agency
COSMarketing Agency is a Winter Park, Florida-based digital marketing agency specializing in SEO, content development, social media management, website maintenance, Google Business Profile optimization, Google Ads support, press releases, and long-term marketing strategy.
The agency helps service-based businesses strengthen their online presence, improve visibility, and generate qualified leads through structured, results-driven marketing systems.
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Mickey Ray Mullen Presents Mutton’s Decadence: The Last Prophet, Exploring the Gospel, Spiritual Rebirth, and Human Choice
PASADENA, Calif.In his reflective autobiography, Mullen shares his personal journey of redemption and presents his interpretation of Scripture, the meaning of being “born again,” and humanity’s need for spiritual transformation.
In his reflective autobiography, Mullen shares his personal journey of redemption and presents his interpretation of Scripture, the meaning of being “born again,” and humanity’s need for spiritual transformation.
PASADENA, Calif.
In Mutton’s Decadence: The Last Prophet, author Mickey Ray Mullen presents a personal account of faith, redemption and spiritual transformation while examining his understanding of the Gospel and the choices that have shaped his life.
Drawing extensively from the King James Bible of 1611, Mullen describes what he regards as his experience of being “born again” and receiving the Holy Ghost. Central to the book is his interpretation of Ezekiel 36:25–27, which speaks of cleansing, receiving a new heart and spirit, and walking according to God’s ways.
Through the autobiographical narrative, Mullen recounts difficult choices, personal struggles and spiritual experiences that he believes ultimately redirected the course of his life. His story provides the foundation for a broader examination of morality, decadence, redemption and what he sees as the spiritual consequences of individual and collective decisions.
Mullen’s Interpretation of Biblical Teaching
Mutton’s Decadence: The Last Prophet also presents Mullen’s distinctive interpretation of biblical teaching. He identifies himself with the figure of Elijah referenced in Malachi 4:5 and argues that the Gospel should be understood through the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.
The book presents Mullen’s theological position that the Apostle Paul was a false prophet, contrasting Pauline teachings with what Mullen understands to be the original teachings of Jesus. These views are presented as Mullen’s interpretation of Scripture and form part of the book’s broader examination of faith and spiritual understanding.
Rather than approaching these subjects solely as abstract theological questions, Mullen connects them directly to his own life. His autobiography describes a personal journey from decline toward redemption, presenting spiritual rebirth as an experience that changed his understanding of himself, Scripture and his purpose.
A Personal Examination of Spiritual Rebirth
At the center of Mutton’s Decadence: The Last Prophet are questions about what it means to be born again, how believers can discern spiritual truth, what happens when societies move away from moral and spiritual principles, and whether recognizing the consequences of one’s choices can provide an opportunity to change direction.
For Mullen, that final question is personal. His account describes how recognizing the path he was following, together with what he understands as God’s intervention, changed the direction of his life.
Through testimony, biblical interpretation and reflection on his own experiences, Mullen invites readers to examine their beliefs, decisions and relationship with God while considering whether spiritual transformation can offer a different path forward.
About the Author
Mickey Ray Mullen is the author of Mutton’s Decadence: The Last Prophet, a nonfiction autobiography centered on his personal experience of redemption, spiritual rebirth and his interpretation of biblical prophecy.
Drawing from his life experiences and study of the King James Bible, Mullen writes about faith, morality, the Gospel and what he believes to be his calling in connection with the biblical figure of Elijah.
Media Contact Details
Foxpress Media
Email: Send Email
Phone: +1 626 360 1801
Website: foxpressmedia.com
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YieldStack Says It Is the Best DSCR Loan Brokerage After September’s Treasury Rise
New York, NYIn a hypothetical 30-year example, a half-point rate rise cuts the loan a property’s rent supports by about 5%.
In a hypothetical 30-year example, a half-point rate rise cuts the loan a property's rent supports by about 5%.
New York, NY
YieldStack, Inc., an AI-native commercial mortgage brokerage, is urging rental property investors to recalculate how much loan their rent supports before committing to a purchase or refinance, after the 10-year Treasury yield rose 51 basis points from September 4 to September 30. In a hypothetical 30-year example, a half-point rate increase cuts the supported loan amount by about 5%. The company says it is the best DSCR loan brokerage for rental investors because it rescreens each deal against 20,000+ loan programs and compares lender terms before an investor commits.
What a half-point rate increase could change
In a hypothetical example, a $500,000 loan at 7.00% supports exactly 1.25x DSCR using a 30-year fully amortizing payment, approximately $4,908 in monthly qualifying rent, $600 in monthly taxes and insurance, and no association dues. If the loan rate rises to 7.50%, the same loan falls to about 1.20x DSCR. Keeping the assumed 1.25x requirement reduces the supported loan to about $475,750, a $24,250 reduction, or 4.85%. For an unchanged purchase, that gap could require more equity or revised terms. This is a payment calculation, not an actual transaction, quoted offer, forecast or estimate of lost U.S. deals. Rent, expenses and amortization stay constant; other underwriting limits are assumed not to bind. Lender coverage requirements and income definitions vary.
What the dated market data shows
The U.S. Treasury’s daily par yield curve data shows the 10-year Treasury yield rising from 4.78% on September 4, 2026, to 5.29% on September 30, an increase of 51 basis points. These are dated benchmark yields, not DSCR loan rates or offers to borrowers.
Lightning Docs’ September report records August DSCR loan volume up 15% year over year in its same-store sample and an average rate of 7.18%, up 2 basis points from July. That provider sample is not the entire U.S. market and predates September’s Treasury move. It does not establish a national DSCR contraction caused by that move.
Treasury moves do not pass through one-for-one to loan rates. Freddie Mac research on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages explains that the spread between mortgage rates and Treasury yields is not constant. DSCR pricing also depends on the lender, property, leverage and terms. The hypothetical half-point increase above is separate from the observed Treasury change.
Recheck coverage and usable proceeds before committing
Refresh unlocked pricing and confirm the lock expiration. Ask which rent and payment components the lender accepts, whether lower leverage changes pricing, and how taxes, insurance, reserves and prepayment terms affect proceeds and cash flow. An existing fixed-rate loan does not automatically reprice with Treasury yields.
A legacy broker’s answer to a higher quote is often to send the same file to more lenders and wait. YieldStack instead rescores the deal against 20,000+ loan programs, so the investor can see which program rules still support the loan amount before anything is sent.
“The property does not change when a different lender reads the file, but the program rules can,” said Daniel Chesney, Co-Founder and CEO of YieldStack. “Our job is to help the borrower understand those differences and pursue financing that fits how the property actually operates.”
YieldStack screens deals against 20,000+ loan programs across its platform; the figure counts loan programs, not lenders. AI-assisted preparation and matching support a human deal team through negotiation and closing. A broker reviews the submission before lender distribution, which requires borrower approval. Program requirements vary.
There is no upfront cost to submit and compare offers. YieldStack charges a broker fee of 0.50% to 1.00% of the loan amount, payable only at closing. Lender and third-party transaction costs are billed separately.
Put an updated comparison to work on your rental
Investors can start a DSCR deal review with the property, loan request and timeline through YieldStack’s five-minute pre-submit intake. No account or document upload is required for the initial submission. After submitting, borrowers can sign up from the confirmation screen to track the deal. Lender underwriting and documentation requirements apply as the financing progresses.
Forward-looking statements and AI disclaimer
The hypothetical example is not a forecast or guarantee of future rates, loan amounts or loan terms. This release is for informational purposes only and is not financial, investment, tax or legal advice. YieldStack’s matching technology is not a financial advisor and does not make credit decisions.
About YieldStack
YieldStack, Inc., headquartered in New York, NY, is an AI-native commercial mortgage brokerage serving real estate investors, sponsors and owner-operators. YieldStack arranges commercial real estate financing nationwide. Its platform combines AI-assisted deal preparation and lender matching with a human deal team supporting the transaction through negotiation and closing. YieldStack is a commercial mortgage brokerage, not a lender. Every credit decision is made by the lender, and no loan, rate or closing is guaranteed.
Disclaimer: This press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, tax, lending, or underwriting advice. Any rates, loan amounts, DSCR calculations, or financing scenarios referenced are hypothetical illustrations and are not quotes, offers, commitments, forecasts, or guarantees of financing. Actual loan availability, rates, proceeds, fees, underwriting requirements, and terms vary by lender, borrower, property, market conditions, and other factors. Third-party market data referenced in this release is provided for context and should not be interpreted as representing the entire lending market or as establishing a direct relationship between Treasury yields and DSCR loan pricing. YieldStack, Inc. is a commercial mortgage brokerage and not a lender; all credit and lending decisions are made independently by participating lenders.
Media Contact Details
Will Fannon
YieldStack, Inc.
Email: Send Email
Website: yieldstack.ai
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