Featured Artist: Scorpienna

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

I'm Emily and I live in Rolla, Missouri. I'm currently a student at the Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly UM-Rolla). I received my bachelor's degree in biological engineering from the University of Missouri. I like to use tools to fix things and to make things, so I find that making jewelry is a fun way to relax when I'm not in classes. I now sell on Etsy at http://scorpienna.etsy.com and I'm a member of EtsyLou, the St. Louis Etsy street team.

When I'm not in school or playing on Etsy, I enjoy going to the Missouri wineries, playing with my beloved green cheeked conure (parrot) Charlie, and dancing. I'm currently taking ballet and modern dance classes for adult beginners, and the classes are a fun challenge for me.

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I'm inspired by a mix of current trends and classical beauty. I'm attracted to rich, vibrant colors and patterns, symmetry, motion, and sparkle. I developed an obsession with Swarovski crystals after I became enamored with the glitz and glamour of beauty pageants, so I look for ways to take evening glamour down to a level that's appropriate for everyday wear with jeans and a favorite shirt. I'm also on a quest to make fun-and-funky things that have never been created before, so I have some unique creations to show from those endeavors.

3. Creatively where do you think you'll be in five years?

I imagine that I'll still be creating jewelry with an eclectic mix of bright colors, sparkle, beauty, and uniqueness.

4. What is the best thing you have ever created?

Chandelier earrings. I certainly didn't invent chandelier earrings, but I love to make them. I've created them in just about every size, color, and pattern under the sun, yet I still come up with new ideas on what to make.

5. Why should people buy handmade?

People should buy handmade for the heart and soul that is put into their purchases. It's a good feeling to have something that a real person has made as opposed to buying things that were produced on an anonymous assembly line. When I'm complimented on something I bought, I love the feeling I get when I say that I bought it from a friendly man or woman who makes things and sells them on Etsy, which is a feeling that I don't get when I say I bought something at the mall. Buying handmade is buying something made with love.

Etsy Shop: http://scorpienna.etsy.com
Blog: http://myspace.com/scorpienna
Blog: http://scorpienna.livejournal.com

Featured Artist: Regal Beads

I have loved doing crafts for most of my life (in fact, my dad loves to tell an embarrassing childhood story on me about this passion ;))

Both of my parents are quite creative, and passed this down to me!

I started beading over five years ago and took to it like a fish to water.

I love the feel of the beads in my hands, the challenge of a new pattern, and the joy of a completed piece!

For years this has been one of my hobbies, with my personal collection growing quite large, and with many family members and friends also benefiting.

I have now decided to share these treasures with the world.

I am a proud member of the Etsy Beadweaver Street Team.
Check our the blog for the latest in beadweaving adventures on Etsy - http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com

Etsy Shop: http://RegalBeads.etsy.com
Blog: http://regalbeads.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: ShannonSaylor

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My name is Shannon Saylor, I live actually in Wise, VA a college town an hour from Bristol TN where they hold the Nascar races where people would affiliate my location better. I am part of We Love Etsy blog, Jewelry Galore, Etsy Friends, All things Handmade, Blogger, and Myspace. That's all I can think of at the moment.

I'm also part of several chat groups where there are groups of ladies that are my wonderful support group and cheer section. Sometimes I wouldn't be able to make it without them as I am on SSI Partial Disability. I have several debilitating illnesses that prevent me from working a job outside the home, but I got into beading for relaxation, and it just took off and one of the girlfriends from the boards has a link to Etsy so I figured that I would give it a shot.

It's been a long road for me, but I am soon to go back to school, I have to keep learning from being bipolar, I'm a workaholic within my mind. I can't sit still for very long moments unless I'm in front of the computer doing several things at once. I network, create videos, blog, and pet one of my 5 cats and talk with my hubby at once.

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

One of the first things I made by hand was a necklace from a kit that I had gotten. I had bought from Etsy several necklaces and bracelets for the holiday gift season, and I was so interested in how they were made that I had to try it. My husband was kind enough to allow me to get a few sample kits from the local stores just to try it out and test my learning ability... I took it right up. The next thing I knew, I was buying beads like crazy and making something new every day if not several things new every day.

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I take from the seasons, the weather, the rooms, my cats and dog, an image in my mind from something that I've seen before. I just try to make my pieces fun but beautiful at the same time. Something that I would want to wear, but someone else would want to as well. If I don't like it, then no one else would too.

4. Why should people buy handmade?

There is more heart in handmade jewelry. For Example, When I bought a piece for Christmas from the girlfriend on the chatboard I'm on, she also sent me a set of freshwater pearl earrings with a note stating that every bride should have a set of pearls. My hubby and I had just gotten married.

5. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7661881 I absolutely love this one as it is chocolate and black with magnets in the beading. I've heard of the healing powers of magnets, so I beaded some in it. I love the wild side look of the necklace. I made two similar to it for both my aunt and my mother. They love them.

Etsy Shop: http://ShannonSaylor.etsy.com
Blog: http://shannonsaylor-etsyshop.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Aromatic Body Oils

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My name is Zaidat Bombata. I am a senior premed student majoring in Biology with a Chemistry minor. I am a mother of 2, my 4 year old daughter Bella and my 2 year old son Jamin. I am 29 years old, and owner of ZAJA Natural Handmade Confections since 2004. I live in Cleveland Ohio, grew up here but we just recently moved back after living in Fort Lauderdale Florida for the past 3 years.

2. Why should people buy handmade?

I think that people should buy handmade because I feel that people who make handmade products really put in a lot of their heart and soul into the items they create, whether it be a painting, or jewelry, or a simple bar of soap. You just can't get that from commercial products that come off a robot operated machine.

3. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

My favorite things in my store are my soaps. Each and every batch is carefully thought out, down to the color, scent, and the cut of the bar. I really really enjoy making soap with a passion.

4. What is the best thing about your products?

I put a lot of thought into my products. Whenever I create anything, I think about it from a consumer's standpoint. I think to myself "Is this product feasible? Would the average person find it useful and beneficial?" A lot of things do not make the cut but the ones that do were very thought out and I am glad to be able to offer them.

5. What is the best homemade item you have ever bought?

There is a seller on Etsy that makes great promotional items. The best things I ever bought were these cards that let my customers scratch off and actually receive free items or discounts. I loved those cards!

Etsy Shop: http://aromaticbodyoils.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.zaidat.com/blog

Featured Artist: Allyon67

"By cultivating the beautiful we scatter the seeds of heavenly flowers, as by doing good we cultivate those that belong to humanity"€: Robert Heinlein

"To Change One'€™s Life: Start Immediately. Do it flamboyantly. No exceptions": William James

These are just a few words that I like to live by. I feel that creating art is a way of sharing your soul with others. As you will see in my artwork: sometimes I am very flamboyant and always colorful, sometimes confidant and peaceful, other times angry or chaotic. I think all of my emotions; passions come out in my works. Sometimes I layer it on thick (paint and words) and other times I flirt with the canvas with light feathery strokes. My art reflects my beliefs in love, warmth, generosity, loyalty, and honesty. I'm inspired by science, fantasy, martial arts, architecture, and nature (especially water).

Education:
Maryland Institute of Art-Summer School
Howard Community College-Liberal Arts
Capital College-Computer Engineering

Gallery Shows:
Chesapeake Gallery- Prince Fredrick, MD
DMG Artwork- Annapolis, MD

Awards:
Artist of the Year (Arts and Entertainment)- H.H.S. 1985
2nd Place: African Americans in Science and Technology Poster Contest 1985
Honorable Mention- H.H.S. 1984

Etsy Shop: http://allyon67.etsy.com
Blog: http://pmillerabstractart.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: DAMdesigns

I have grown up living on art. I have always been a crafty person and my mom always tells this story from back when I was 3 -- I used to get up in the morning and watch the art programs that used to play on T.V. One day I was watching and I brought to my sleeping mom a basket I made all by myself. She said it was cut, there was glue, and it was woven together...and I was only 3. She always tells me that she wishes she had kept it. Well the passion for art and crafty things has been with me my entire life, and I finally decided that it was time to sell my art. I put a lot of time and heart into the pieces of art I create, and I love doing it.

Etsy Shop: http://www.damdesigns.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.damdesigns.blogspot.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/damdesigns
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/damdesigns/

Featured Artist: Purple Snowpeas

1.Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Kathryn Short, live in Baltimore, grew up outside NYC, degrees in Photography and Art Education; enjoy hiking, camping, and traveling; art teacher; cat lover.
http://purple-snowpeas-shop.blogspot.com/

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

Photography: I like to capture my observations of the world around me. I am inspired mostly by my adventures out in nature.
Knitting: I like creating my own patterns as I knit. I'm driven by my love of pattern and texture.

3. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

My favorite items in my shop right now are the note cards I just added and my loopy hats. The loopy hats are my favorite to make. I especially enjoy when friends request a hat and give me a main color that they like and come up with the secondary colors and the stitches based on what I think would be good for that person.

4. Creatively, where do you think you'll be in five years?

In 5 years I will still be creating. Photography and knitting have been a big part of my life for a while now so I'm sure I will continue with both of them. I hope my shop will be busy and people will continue to enjoy my work.

5. What is the best homemade item you have ever bought?

My favorite handmade item is a gift from a friend. She created a purse for me that she designed and sewed. It is brown on the outside and has a silky blue flower material on the inside. I love it and people always ask about it.

Etsy Shop: http://purplesnowpeas.etsy.com
Blog: http://purple-snowpeas-shop.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Deabusamor

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Hallo! I'm one of those inconspicuous people who serve you coffee at Starbucks for breakfast and hand you dinner with a smile at KFC. Who knew that apart from my "day job" I also dabble in polymer clay and jewelry! (I hate calling myself 'clay artist' or 'jewelry designer' -- it sounds way too professional!)

Now you do! I'm Sheika Lugtu and I love making jewelry though I think I shine most when I dream up polymer clay pendants, beads and charms (leave all the design work to others, I always say.)

I only got into clay 5 months ago and feel I've really found my medium. I'm hoping to eventually be able to support myself through my claywork and paintings.

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

Growing up I had very strict parents who didn't believe in buying toys, so I spent my time "playing" with books. The very first doll I ever got was a Barbie during my 4th grade church 'Christmas gift-away'. Since I couldn't buy alternate clothes for her, I took two triangles of cloth (cut from old cotton pjs,) stapled them together and called it a skirt! Since then I've built her a cardboard doll house complete with clay miniatures.

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

Though I was born in the Philippines, I've lived and traveled to very many countries including most of the Middle East, India, Bahrain, Hong Kong etc. I currently reside in the US but I feel like I've seen so many cultures that I don't draw from any just one. In all my works I try to draw the various works of art, religions, customs and cultures I've seen.

4. Where would be the best location for showing off your product (the Louvre, Buckingham Palace)

On people. It's my dream come true when customers wear my work because they love it and it goes with their style and fashion.

5. What is the best homemade item you have ever bought?

This may sound weird but years ago, I had a friend whose family was very poor. She wanted to buy her little brother a GI Joe he'd been wanting but didn't have the money for. I saved up my weekly allowance for 2 months (it came up to about 17 dollars) and bought a painting of hers (it was a sunset with two stick figures sitting on the beach, and v-shaped birds flying in the sky.) I wish I could find it now, but I think my 12 year old self lost it in my many travels.

Etsy Shop: http://Deabusamor.etsy.com
Blog: http://omgcow.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Quirky'n'Berkeley

Love paper. Love color. Love Berkeley. Love Etsy.

Beyond that, my style is eclectic and I love to experiment. I get completely absorbed in engineering my varied creations for hours. Each one is a new and unique production, made of treasures from my collection of paper and ephemera, transfigured into a single piece held together by a little glue, a lot of ideas, practice and work, and most of all, a great amount of joy. Some of my custom work can be viewed at http://www.picturetrail.com/photos/quirkynberkeley. Everything is made in a smoke free environment.

Etsy Shop: http://QuirkynBerkeley.etsy.com
Blog: http://quirkynberkeley.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Witty Workshop

Valérie Parizeault is a Canadian Illustrator & designer from Montreal. She is the owner of Rose Flash, Playfully spirited Jewelry (www.roseflash.ca) and the creative mind behind the Witty workshop (www.wittyworkshop.etsy.com), a place to buy and enjoy her Illustrations and prints. Inspired by whimsical moments, children’s universe and storytelling, she is living her dream life as an artist with her husband by her side and her black cat Tokyo. Tree hugger and business connoisseur, she blogs both in French and English about Eco-friendly causes, Indie designers and her daily life trough her creative blog Pot aux Roses (www.pot-aux-roses.blogspot.com) and about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship through her business tip blog Bite (www.bitethebusiness.blogspot.com).

Etsy Shop: http://wittyworkshop.etsy.com
Blog: http://pot-aux-roses.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: cserpent Designs

Hi my name is Susan and I'm the creator of cserpentDesigns! My husband nicknamed me Sea Serpent during our scuba diving days (picture a tall person in a purple and black drysuit with a pink flotation vest coming out of the water with big black fins on her feet ... yep sea serpent fits!). He even got me a sea serpent stamp to use for my "signature" on my hand made cards.

I got started in jewelry making when one of my soccer teammates got me to go to a wirewrapping class with her. I made my first bracelet in that class (and as I look at it now I want to take it apart and redo it to look a lot nicer!). I then saw a beaded watch band in a magazine and figured I could expand on that idea and make myself a cool beaded watch band in PURPLE! (my favorite color). I started the watch band using gold plated findings, finished it up at another wire wrapping class and got interest from many of my friends and family in having jewelry made for them. I still was just dabbling and got really mad when the gold plated findings started to tarnish in a very short amount of time. From that I learned my lesson about making things that last - don't make them with gold or silver plated parts if you want them to last a long time and remain beautiful!

That 2nd wire wrapping class really drove my interest in making jewelry with beads. I took more classes in basic jewelry making (stringing, knotting, ...) and have been making jewelry for family and friends and other customers for 4 years now. My jewelry designs are also for sale at a gallery in La Jolla, CA - Art in 18K - so I'm starting to expand my sales base.

I have a great time buying the parts needed to make my jewelry. I REALLY like the gorgeous artisan lampwork beads that are available through etsy as well as other online sites. My "inventory" is quite large so I really have to get designing more so I can share these beautiful beads with others. Sometimes I'll find one interesting bead or gemstone and that will be the kick start for a piece of jewelry. I really enjoy the creation process and get excited when I finish a piece and can share it with folks I know and with Etsy I can now share my creations with a much larger family.

I'm a member of several Etsy street teams. I'm a member of CCCOE (California Crafters Club on Etsy), JET (Jewelry on Etsy), etsyBEAD (bead lovers of all sorts), BeadHive (started on Ebay and has now joined Etsy a group of jewelry artisans who all use high quality components to create artisan quality jewelry) and TBO (Tranquil Beading Oasis). In these groups we share ideas, provide support to one other, teach and learn all in the name of continuing are respective handmade crafts.

Etsy Shop: http://cserpent.etsy.com
Blog: http://cserpentDesigns.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: George McKim

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My name is George McKim. I was born in Wilmington, NC and I have been living in Raleigh, NC for the past 15 years. I'm married, my wife's name is Betty and she is a Jeweler and we have 2 adult children, age 23 (twin boys) who both recently graduated from college. My "day job" is working for a printing company as a graphic artist and I try to make my artwork in my "spare time" which as most artists know is a challenge, but not impossible. I have a Masters degree in Painting and Drawing from East Carolina University. I'm a serious person but I have a good sense of humor and I love comedy. I take my artwork seriously but I try not to take myself too seriously.

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

My inspiration comes from other artwork and from nature. Vincent Van Gogh is probably my favorite artist and I am truly inspired by his paintings and drawings because of the directness of both his technique and his expression. Nature also inspires me and is a great source of colors, patterns, marks, spatial relationships and pictorial imagery. I'm not sure where my ideas come from, but most of good ideas come to me as a kind of vague idea and when I start making art from the idea it changes and morphs and gets even better.

3. What is the best thing you have ever created?

The best thing I have ever created is my children, but that was really a collaborative project :-) But seriously, the best thing I ever created is a large abstract mixed media painting, about 6' x 8', about 20 years ago. It's fun and exciting to make large paintings, but it's also impractical.

4. What is the best thing about your products?

The best thing about my products is the fact that they are something that can be enjoyed for many years, or even generations, and they allow the viewer to participate by using their imagination to complete the picture, so to speak.

5. What is the best homemade/handmade item you have ever bought?

The best homemade item I ever bought was a lamp made with steel rods and a big river rock, very cool.

Etsy Shop: http://GeorgeMcKim.etsy.com
Blog: http://georgemckim.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Vanessa Kimball

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Vanessa Kimball, from Minnesota. I am a graphic designer working in St. Paul.

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I'm inspired by fellow designers and magazines. I love graphic design books for inspiration and ideas.

3. What is the best thing about your products?

The best thing about my products is that it is an actual tangible object, that is in my head. I love it when my creations come alive. I also love paper a lot.

4. Why should people buy your product?

They should buy it if it's their taste and style and if they appreciate paper goods.

5. What is the best homemade item you have ever bought?

A purse. I wish I could sew.

Etsy Shop: http://Vanessakimball.etsy.com
Blog: http://vanessakimball.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Celtic Goddess Jewelry

Celtic Goddess Jewelry was started in early 2001. My name is Andee Harston. Art has always been prevalent in my life. I love to draw, paint, sculpt, make jewelry, and most recently, photography. I am influenced by spiritual learning, nature and goddess and Celtic imagery. I identify very strongly with my Celtic heritage. I am a Buddhist pagan living in the Orlando area. Please feel free to contact me for further information or custom inquiries.

*Goddess jewelry, Pagan, Gothic, Chakra, dragonfly, butterfly
*Buddhist and Zen Jewelry
*Artwork and photography
*Sculpture
*Custom and Unique Pendulums and Divination (all pendulums come with free instructions!)
*Headpieces and tiara's
*and more!
~~~Member of Earth Path Artisans street team~~~
~~~Member of FAE : Fantasy Art of Etsy~~~

Etsy Shop: http://celticgoddessjewelry.etsy.com
Etsy Shop: http://sacredwaters.etsy.com
Blog: http://buyindie.blogspot.com/
Website: http://celticgoddessjewelry.com (Gallery)

Featured Artist: SignatureSterling

SignatureSterling specializes in designing sterling silver beaded jewelry - bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. I use primarily sterling silver - not silverplated unless noted - for all silver beads, spacers, charms, findings, toggles, etc. I also use color and texture with genuine Swarovski crystals/pearls, lampwork beads, Czech glass, and semiprecious stones. My line of Buckeye (Ohio State) jewelry also features life-like lampwork buckeye beads.

Committed to high quality in supplies and design, I am a SRAJD (#1111), Self-Representing Artist Jewelry Designer.

Member of The BeadHive, etsyBEAD, EtsyMom, JET (Jewelry on Etsy), and TBO (Tranquil Beading Oasis). Search with “BHV, etsyBEAD, EtsyMOM, JETT, and TBO” in tags to see all our wonderful creations! Member of the SRAJD #1111

Featured at WickedlyChic.com

Etsy Shop: http://signaturesterling.etsy.com
Blog: http://signature-sterling.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Simply Said By Sarah

Sarah Orton is a graphic design student in North Carolina. Her flair for design stems from a lifelong interest in crafts and her pieces demonstrate a fun spin on a contemporary sense of style. Encouraged by the requests she’d begun to receive from fellow employees and friends, Sarah decided to combine her creativity with her business sense, and Simply Said by Sarah was born. Each piece is handcrafted and unique, and is sure to add a tasteful touch of originality to your home!
-JDO

Visit http://www.SimplySaidBySarah.com for lots of other goodies! Bags, purses, bath & body, jewelry, embroidery, paper goods & lots more!!

**** ALL PROFITS FROM THIS SITE WILL BE DONATED TO THE NEDA ****
NEDA is dedicated to expanding public understanding and prevention of eating disorders and promoting access to quality treatment for those affected along with support for their families through education, advocacy and research.

Millions of women, men, girls and boys suffer from eating disorders. Eating disorders are illnesses with a biological basis. They are very serious, life-threatening illnesses and currently there is no cure. Help is available and recovery is possible for these sufferers. Every donation counts.

Etsy Shop: http://simplysaidbysarah.etsy.com
Blog: http://simplysaidbysarah.blogspot.com
Website: http://SimplySaidBySarah.com
Myspace: http://myspace.com/SimplySaidBySarah

Featured Artist: Knuckle Toes

Hi there, I'm Katie, thanks for stopping by.

I'm a smalltime, jewelry, clothing and purse maker who wants to share her style with the world!

I'm from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, and every year I try to make it out to the surrounding Folk Festivals to sell my product. I've gone the last two years and really hope to make it out again in 2008!

I try to make my clothing and purses out of recycled materials. Anything from tablecloths, to pillowcases, to reused LP record covers. This not only gives my items a vintage feel, but it helps the environment, and what more do you need?

If you see anything you like, don't hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions you like about it. If you're in the area, I may be able to cut down on your shipping, so let me know!

Etsy Shop: http://knuckletoes.etsy.com
Etsy Shop: http:/revinylized.etsy.com
Blog: http://knuckletoes.blogspot.com
Blog: http://revinylized.blogger.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/knuckletoes
IndiePublic: http://www.indiepublic.com/profile/knuckletoes

Featured Artist: Craftymoose

I have been crafting for as long as I can remember. I am self-taught and have enjoyed painting, needlework, quilting, polymer clay and jewelry making. Most recently, I have found myself drawn to beads and have returned to the art of French beaded flowers. I enjoy making original, one-of-a-kind butterflies & dragonflies. I am also introducing a new line of one-of-a-kind beaded art dolls and suncatchers. Custom requests are welcome.

All my items are lovingly created in a smoke-free, pet-free environment.

The name Craftymoose came about because of my love of crafts and my husband's love of moose. My avatar, in my shop, is the head of a 4'+ tall moose I made him one Christmas!

Keep checking back because I am always adding new things, and you never know what you'll find in this forest!

Etsy Shop: http://craftymoose.etsy.com
Blog: http://craftymoosecrafts.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Darjeeling Paper

My name is Michael Gresh, and I am a man of many trades. Designer of hotels by day, craft inventor and schemer by night. I am a self-proclaimed "paper nut", and my work hopefully shows just that.

I am co-owner of DemiGod Studio, an eclectic duo of craft & art show afficionados. When I'm not working on plans to open our very own shop, I bide my time coming up with new and inventive ways to use up the stockpile of paper I've accumulated over the years.

I started Darjeeling Paper, Ltd. as a way to showcase my paper goods, and to distinguish my works as a new product division of DemiGod.

Viva La Independante!

Etsy Shop: http://darjeelingpaper.etsy.com
Etsy Shop: http://demigodstudio.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.darjeelingpaper.com/blog
Website: http://www.darjeelingpaper.com

Featured Artist: Alternate Bliss

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My first name is Tanya... Born in England, raised in Utah! Let's see I'm a social worker/kindergarten teacher by day, artisan jeweler by night literally! lol I have degrees in English & Social work as well as a minor in philosophy. I'm currently teaching a kindergarten class and finishing up my masters in education.

Let's see what else can I tell you... Oh my sculpting and watercolor painting abilities only recently came about. I am completely self taught and honestly believed until I was 30 that I had zero creative abilities. I was tormented because I felt so creative but never dared to explore it! So my advise is... go for it... what have you got to lose! I laugh when I look at my path... I just go wherever my heart leads me. For now my passion is directed towards my family (husband of 10 years and two daughters ages 1 and 3, always and forever my passion), teaching, fine silver and just creating stuff in general!...lol.

Affiliations: Member of Altrusa International (community service oriented group).

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

1st thing I remember making by hand was a kindergarten craft project that involved dipping my hands into this mint green pasty paint and pressing my hand onto a sheet of construction paper that featured a typed out poem about little hands. I'm assuming it was a Mother's Day project of some kind.

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

Inspiration: Comes from all things, music, art, literature, family, walks, drives, quiet moments, film, fellow artisans.

4. Why should people buy handmade?

Buying handmade means more than buying something you like, it means you're buying from a fellow artisan, from a name not a conglomerate. It means you truly value the artist and the final creation. It supports a community that lives and breaths creativity.

5. Creatively where do you think you'll be in five years?

Creatively, in five years I hope to have discovered more of my talents that have been dormant. I didn't know I could paint or sculpt until I was 30. I honestly believed that I had zero creative ability. I have never taken an art class in my life up until my 30's. Scratch that I actually had an art appreciation/history course in high school which I loved, but sincerely believed I could never paint or sculpt. I can't wait to see what things I'll be making.

Etsy Shop: http://alternatebliss.etsy.com
Blog: http://alternatebliss.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: BerryPatchDesigns

I love to combine the varying colors and textures of the natural world. There are so many feelings and places to love about our world!

The materials I use in my jewelry are those that remind me of those places and feelings: turquoise, jasper and agate in their infinite varieties, other semiprecious gems, like amazonite's soft greens, garnet's rich wine colors, bronzite's gold-flecked chocolate depths. High quality man-made glass and metal beads join in the visual symphony; they have their own brightness and feelings to contribute.

Hearing and seeing that people enjoy wearing my jewelry is one of the best things about designing jewelry.

New designs are always in the works. I love designing jewelry and work constantly to develop new skills and improve existing ones.

I do make custom pieces on spec. You don't have to buy them if you don't like the final piece. If you would like a custom piece made, please convo me.

Etsy Shop: http://berrypatchdesigns.etsy.com
Blog: http://strainsasylum.blogspot.com
Also check my other two Etsy Shops:
http://SilverShadow.etsy.com
http://UnderCurrent.etsy.com (Alternate "reality" shop)

Featured Artist: Cats Paw Artifacts

Judy Richards resides in Portland, Oregon where it rains this time of year. A well kept secret is that it doesn't rain all year around.

Judy is a member of the Portland Bead Society, the ORBS (Oregon Regional Beadmakers Society) and the ISGB (International Society of Glass Beadmakers).

Judy makes lampwork beads and designs jewelry - unique and hopefully artful jewelry. She is always striving for new ideas, new shapes in glass.

Judy is inspired by nature (flowers, birds) depicted in glass. She loves abstract lampwork most of all with layers of glass and complexity. She is always striving to that goal.

She has done the work of reasonably exact glass beads - but yearns to break out of that toward something more complex and deep in an artistic sense. She also has a sense of humor and doesn't take herself too seriously - she is the owner of 2 cats, hence the cat beads. Judy likes to laugh and make others smile with her work.

Judy's dream buyer is the Sundance catalog.

Probably the best things she has made are jewelry with her own lampwork beads and semi precious stones that have sold that are really pushing the envelope of what we think of as jewelry and adornment.

Etsy Shop: http://catldy99.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.catldy99.wordpress.com

Featured Artist: BackWoods Creations

I have been doing the arts and crafts thing since I was a wee child. Mom always said idle hands can make trouble. I love keeping the creativity flowing and still find time to get into trouble. My creative endeavors are somewhat eclectic.

Creating fabric animal sculptures and mixed media pieces is where its at for me. All items are made in a smoke free environment. I will take suggestions for new critters so just let me know what you have in mind. Items are not toys for kids. I do custom work as well! So if you have a special cat or dog or whatever drop me a convo.

All of my items are made in a smoke free environment but we do have pets (2 corgis - Rudy and Cleo and 2 cats- Stella and Minnie). If you are interested in learning more about me and my artistic leanings check out my blog at www. backwoodscreations.blogspot.com.

Also, check out my second shop, SecondLife (http://SecondLife.etsy.com), for tons of sheet music from Victorian Times on up to the late 60's.

Etsy Shop: http://backwoodscreations.etsy.com
Blog: http://backwoodscreations.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: DreamON

I always loved to cut, paste, paint and draw from my earliest memories. Creating art is what I do, it's built-in by my creator, He enables me, and I love it.

My college degree is in art. In addition I have received training from some fine national and regionally-known artists. Some of my most important lessons came from not so well-known, but wonderful artists who now paint in the sky, and local artists who teach the basics, as well as the artists I paint with.

I value the presence of a recognizable subject in my paintings. I love it when the center of interest appears in the midst of background objects that aren’t so well-defined. I want watercolor to look like watercolor, and I want my paintings to have a painterly look, not a photographic copy. Therefore I am an impressionist, because I don’t want to over-control the media.


Etsy Shop: http://DreamON.etsy.com
Blog: http://DreamsAboutArt.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Lazy Cat

Lazy Cat Gifts was created by three friends in Ann Arbor, MI. Two of them were in medical school at the University of Michigan and the third worked in a laboratory there. All of us had grandmothers who crocheted, however Kelly had the most experience.

After honing our skills for several years making many gifts for many family members and friends, we decided to try to sell some of our creations! We had a good start at a local craft show and found Etsy.com while searching for a gentle way to beginning selling online. (Plus, Etsy comes with the bonus of a great community of artists!) Etsy is also great for us, because Kelly has moved to Philadelphia, while Allison and Stasia still live in Ann Arbor. However, we keep in touch every day! And, we are all so excited Kelly is moving back to Ann Arbor in June!

We enjoy using the skills from our grandmothers to create wonderfully hip and modern pieces. We crochet in both yarn and wire, creating artisan bead crochet jewelry, scarves, hats, etc. We are constantly looking for ways to expand crochet, and we love making custom items!

We are updating our store all the time, so please check back often to see what new goodies have appeared!

Additionally, our Boutique line of jewelry is currently available at Suwanee Springs at 306 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor, MI. Please stop in to see these exclusive pieces!

In the past, we have featured Kelly's mom's items in "Ruth Ellen's Creations" as she is unable to make her own website. Hopefully her beautiful quilts and tasty dog treats will return soon.

Read more about our store and the cats who inspire it on our blog: http://lazycatgifts.blogspot.com

Etsy Shop: http://lazycat.etsy.com
Blog: http://lazycatgifts.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Ulixis Crafts

My name is Amanda, I'm 21 years old and I grew up in the middle of nowhere - Northern Ontario. I'm currently a fifth year Honours Biology and Pharmacology co-op student at McMaster University and I'm working in the Janssen lab on my thesis. I do real-time videomicroscopy of smooth muscle cell migration.

I've been crafty my whole life, and enjoy making a variety of things. When I was younger, it was drawing, then wreathes, dolls and beading. Now, my focus has switched to notebooks and jewelry. I also enjoy cooking, reading, writing and problem solving.

Please check out my blog, where I'll be posting regularly on personal tid-bits, inspirations and featuring other Canadian / Etsy sellers!!

Etsy Shop: http://ulixis.etsy.com
Blog: http://ulixis.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Indigo Luna

My name is Rachel Kitterman and I am an art addict. My primary passion is fabric and I have been making art quilts and dolls for over a decade now. I also love paper, altered art, mixed-media, knitting, crocheting, jewelry, artist books, photography... pretty much, if it will hold still, I'll make art out of it. Here you will find an ecclectic sampling of all the creative things I love to make.

I have always been an artist. I have always drawn, cut, pasted, painted, collected, sewn, written and dreamed. I have been driven by the question, “What if?” (and fighting against its archenemy, “That won’t work!”)

I also wear many other hats. Among other things, I am a sign language interpreter, an energy worker, a minister, a blogger, a wife to a wonderful and creative man, and a mother to two wild and amazing little girls. All of these roles shape and change and inform my art.

I am a 5th generation Oregonian. This lush and verdant environment is in my blood. I grew up in a valley surrounded by tree-covered hills and blessed with a great deal of rain. I memorized the names of flowers as a child. I picked basketsful of mushrooms in the damp woods and studied moss and built forts inside of blackberry thickets. After traveling the United States, I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

My work has appeared on the cover of the 2005 Quilting Arts Calender, in Artella Magazine, Art/Quilt Magazine, Fiberarts Design Book 6, as well as many juried shows.

I also write and I'd love it if you'd come by to check out my blog at http://indigoluna.typepad.com

Proud member of EarthPath Artisans Street Team E.A.S.T. Search for "east" to see other amazing goodies made by this talented team.

Etsy Shop: http://Indigoluna.etsy.com
Blog: http://indigoluna.typepad.com/indigo_luna/

Featured Artist: Contas Brasil

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

I am the third daughter from a family with 7 children!! My father is an Opthamologist and my mother has a Ballet school.

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

Knitting! When I was about 9, I saw my mother was knitting something and I became curious, so she taught me how to do it.

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

The beads and what is inside my mind!!

4. Why should people buy handmade?

Not everything handmade should be bought ONLY because its handmade. When it is a good piece, you recognize that personal touch from the artist and lots of love and energy that she put on it.

5. Creatively where do you think you'll be in five years?

If it depend on my effort, I hope I'll be creating a lot and selling to shops all over the world!!

Etsy Shop: http://contasbrasil.etsy.com
Etsy Shop: http://contascoeln.etsy.com
Blog: http://contaskoeln.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Entyqua (Becki's Designs)

I am Becki I am a SAHM to one gorgeous little girl!

About the creations
I make both costume and genuine stone/metal jewelry as well as finish Jewelry boxes, card making and other paper crafts and coming soon I will be doing clothing as well! I have a lot of creative outlets

For my Jewelry: I use a lot of natural stones and beads for my creations, my favorite being wood and gemstones. I also love to use pearls weather they are freshwater or faux pearls have a very elegant feel to them and always and a touch of class to every piece they are used in! All my jewelry designs are Hand made with care a love. Also you will always find each piece is very unique and will never be recreated. If you need a necklace or bracelet made to a certain size please specify during checkout, if I have the extra materials I can make the changes! I also LOVE to do custom work! I love to share ideas with others to come to a creation that might not be with out two great minds working together!

For the Finished Jewelry Boxes
I LOVE to paint I love to decorate I love to take something ordinary Like a plain unfinished wooden box and make it dazzle. These are one of my favorites of my hobbies. They come to me from a craft store plain dull and wood colored and ends up with color and flair and style I love the transformation!

For the paper crafts
I am a scrapper I will always be a scrapper I have so much scrap I don’t know what to do with it! SO I make cards and other paper related crafts! I wish I had enough time to do this more than I do!

For the clothing
COMING SOON!! Can’t wait!

For more information on my Hobbies (yes all of them and yes there are MORE ACK!!) Please visit my blog! http://beckisdesigns.blogspot.com/

Etsy Store: http://entyqua.etsy.com
Blog: http://beckisdesigns.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Sweet Irie

Established in 2005, the Sweet Irie name came about from the newest addition to my family; my kitten, Irie. Her name means, supreme joy; quite fitting! She is the light of my life and the inspiration for my jewelry, as she likes to help me work! Although I have to admit, she isn't much help! She loved to play with the jewelry and balls of hemp I once used; stringing it all over the house. Needless to say, she now has her own stash of 'toys' lying around. Just as well, I have since moved on from making hemp jewelry and create the beautiful handmade beaded designs you will see throughout this store. I do hope you enjoy!

I am a proud member Etsy FEST (Florida Etsy Street Team)and Etsy Bead Street Team! Please check out our blogs for awesome group information and events:

Special Orders
Don't see what you are looking for within my store? Or do you simply have a special request!?! I would love to create a special design just for you! Call on me for your unique jewelry project and watch it come to life! Sweet Irie Originals can make any custom accessory to fit your color, style, and budget! Just pick a color, two, or three, size, and a bead and style preference and let me do the work! Send me your thoughts and let me draw something up for your approval...see your vision come to life; and all before you buy! I guarantee you will love it!

To request more information convo me or contact me via email at info@sweetirie.com.

Etsy Shop: http://sweetirie.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.sweetirieoriginals.blogspot.com
Blog: http://etsyfest.blogspot.com/
Blog: http://www.etsybeadstreet.blogspot.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/shellmonster

Featured Artist: lchandler

My passion is creating unique pieces of jewelry. I eat, sleep, drink, shop and dream of making jewelry.

Linda Chandler began making jewelry even as a child and grew up designing and handcrafting one of a kind pieces. She is inspired from designs of nature to basic functional pieces and combines the two into literal works of art. Linda is a master craftsman in many facets of jewelry making. Whether it be silversmithing intricate filigree designs, weaving wire into almost impossible patterns or stone setting, her foremost enjoyment comes from the design to finish of her amazing pieces.

Linda has been a vendor on Etsy for well over a year and finds it a welcome change from The traditional Art Show scene that she spent many years taking part in. She feels that Etsy is a wonderful and lucrative avenue in which to share your designs, meet fellow artisans, and share tips and techniques.

Author of "Woven Wire Jewelry" & "Getting Started Making Jewelry".
Scheduled 2/08 "Wire Wrapping".

Etsy Shop: http://lchandler.etsy.com
Blog: http://lchandler.blogspot.com/
Website: http://jewelrybylinda.com
Flickr Account: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jewelrybylinda/

Featured Artist: Eva Felicity Designs

Hello there, My name is Eva and I am so very happy to be here on Etsy showcasing all of my happy little creations. I make them all in the cute little studio that my amazing boyfriend built for me, so I must give him some credit here. I am quite new to Etsy but know that I will take any order as top priority. All items are Handcrafted by Myself.

MATERIALS USED
Jewelry
All items are glass, stone, crystal, pearl or metal beads unless otherwise stated. The metals I use are: .925 Sterling Silver, Silver plated, silver-tone basemetal, gold-toned basemetal and surgical steel.

Sewn Crafts
All items are hand/machine sewn using quality fabrics and materials.

Bath Products
All products are made by hand in small batches. Only the finest natural ingredients and essential oils are used. Flavored items such as lipbalms will occasionally contain popular scents and flavors not achievable by all-natural methods, and so I will use natural-derived, food grade, man-made ingredients. I will ALWAYS state in an items description whether these are used.

Photography and Art
All photography is taken with either my wonderful digital or SLR camera in and around my hometown of Hanson, surrounding cities of south shore Massachusetts and while vacationing. Special shipping for photographs! Due to the lengthy process of printing high quality Glossy photos, at this time it may take me up to 1 week to ship a photo or poster.

Etsy Shop: http://EvaFelicityDesigns.etsy.com
Blog: http://evafelicity.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Mineral Magic

I take great pride in my makeup line and guarantee 100% satisfaction. Mineral makeup is pure, crushed minerals from the earth, that improves your skin condition. It provides an SPF (sun protection factor) of up to 20, depending on how much you apply. It is an anti-inflamatory for your skin, as well. My makeup does NOT contain bismuth oxychloride, which is kin to arsenic, and is most likely the reason for skin discomfort and bad skin reaction.

Since these minerals are 100% pure, bacteria cannot be supported and there is no expiration date. There is also virtually no allergy risk. It won't clog your pores and is used as a mineral supplement for your skin.

I am married with one child and live in Pennsylvania.

I went to Rutgers University for purchasing and finance, and Manatee College for radiography. I am also a licensed cosmetologist.

I have recently added my son, Timmy to my store. He's nine, has autism (is high-functioning), and has made smelly jellies, aroma ice beads and more.

I am teaching him about business and how to manage his money. He's worked very hard on his products. Please see his work in the Made By Timmy/Awareness Section of my store.

We are Christians, and we believe in Israel's right to exist. We support the Jewish people worldwide. Please contact www.jhm.org , www.cufi.org (John Hagee Ministries) and www.ifcj.com (International Fellowship of Christians And Jews) for more information on how you can bless the Jewish People. Genesis 12:3

Etsy Shop: http://MINERALMAGIC.etsy.com
Blog: http://mineralmagic.blogspot.com/
Website: http://kelliesmineralmagic.ning.com/

Featured Artist: Personal Treasures

Hi, I’m Phyllis Mufson, a jewelry artisan and a creative career and small business coach. I started making jewelry while directing the Locks Career Center at Moore College of Art & Design, an inspiring environment where I worked with wonderfully creative people.

Now I work in my sunny living room where I talk with clients and have all of my jewelry equipment close at hand. My design inspiration is my 23-story “bead condo” – clear, stacking sectioned boxes brimming with color-coordinated gold and silver, gemstones and pearls.

Earlier in my life I was a textile artist and that sensibility influences my designs. I'm concerned with how the jewelry drapes and moves with the body. I'm also inspired by my customers. In addition to my ETSY stores I sell through private jewelry shows so I gethttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif to see how women respond to the jewelry. I talk with them about what interests them, and fhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifind out which designs are particularly flattering to wear.

If you like Personal Treasures but are loohttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifking for something more simple or casual please visit my Mufi Jewels store at http://mufi.etsy.com.

You can learn more about my coaching practice at http://phyllismufson.interfaceias.com.
I also have a blog where I write about creativity and creative people – http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com.

I sell wholesale. If you are interested in carrying my work or hosting a jewelry party please email me.

Etsy Shop: http://PersonalTreasures.etsy.com
Blog: http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Kuddle Bugz Threadz

*** Holiday Promotion ***

The EtsyBaby Street Team is having a Holiday Promotion Starting Saturday, November 16th through Wednesday, December 12th.

There's a mouse in the house... that's right Santa's helper Kris-mouse is making his way through the EtsyBABY shops! Kris wants to help you find special gifts and great deals for those sweet babies! If you buy an item where Kris's picture shows up, you'll receive a free gift with your purchase.


My name is Toni and I am the mother of two wonderful little twin girls!

Yes, I live way up North where it gets VERY cold in the winter... -50 degrees F! (And yes, there really is a place called North Pole! It is about 10 miles from Fairbanks, AK.) The winters do get long, but it is absolutely breath taking up here in Alaska! The summer days are amazing with such long days!

I am most famous for being "Mommy" to my 16 month old twin daughters! I never knew I had so much love in me until I became a mother! They are so precious!

And they are the inspiration for KuddleBugz Threadz! With the need in Fairbanks for warm baby items, I felt a tug at my heart to use my talents to help other moms! Tori and Trista inspired the name "KuddleBugz", they are truly my little kuddlebugz!

Keep your little ones warm and cozy this winter with a beautiful Infant Car Seat Cover! For those tiny toes, pick up a pair of warm and cozy booties! Don't have a NEW Baby? How about new hat or pair of mittens for that Toddler in your life?

Looking for something special? I can do custom orders! Please convo. me to let me know what colors you are looking for!

Not sure what to get?? I offer Gift Certificates!

Refer a Friend and get 25% off! See store profile for details!

Proud Member of EtsyBaby and EtsyKids

Etsy Shop: http://KuddleBugzThreadz.etsy.com
Blog: http://kuddlebugzthreadz.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Kala

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My name is Karen, I'm mum to two beautiful children and a professional artist and illustrator from the UK. I love to create and have trouble deciding what to do so I usually end up trying to a bit of everything from painting to jewellery making and crochet, which is why I opened an esty shop.

Here you will find my artwork, prints and cards,
my crafts and jewellery can be found in my new shop opening soon http://upwiththelark.etsy.com/

My main website is www.chalkhillstudio.co.uk which is where I sell my stationery and gifts for those special moments in our lives! To see what goes on in my life visit my blog http://karenjinks.blogspot.com/

2. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

My favourite item is usually the last thing I've made. I have a lot of interests and skills so find it difficult to keep making the same thing over again, so one day I will be making books or cards, the next I will be painting, the next making jewellery or lightcatchers. In fact my favourite thing is the actual process of making, there is nothing more satisfying.

3. What is the best thing about your products?

I suppose it's the fact that a lot of my items can be personalised, and I offer a full bespoke design service so customers can get something they wouldn't be able to get anywhere else.

4. Who is your dream buyer? Brad Pitt, Queen Elizabeth.

Believe it or not that has already happened and no, I'm not telling!

5. What is the best homemade item you have ever bought?

Gosh that's a tricky one, there are so many talented artists out there but my latest purchase that I am completely besotted with is a handmade top made from vintage scarves from the wonderful Kate Fletcher at greygoat.etsy.com. Simply stunning!

Etsy Shop: http://kala.etsy.com
Blog: http://chalkhillstudio.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Elektra Jewelry Design

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Dina Cuomo-Goldens Bridge, New York -school teacher, mother of two sons.

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

Gorgeous jewelry of Greece, Italy and many jewelry artisans. My ideas come from many sources.

3. What is the best thing you have ever created?

I have many pieces that I say are the best at the time, but then I'll make a new piece and love that one more than the last. One that stands out in my mind was a long pearl lariat piece with gorgeous silver connectors. I wanted to keep it for myself, but I sold it.

4. What is the best thing about your products?

The best thing about my pieces are the materials I use. I use sterling silver, semi-precious stones, gold vermeil, 14k gold filled findings and chain, Murano beads, swarovski, and lampwork beads. All my pieces are one of a kind. I do not duplicate designs.

5. Why should people buy handmade?

There is nothing like handmade for unique design and quality.

Etsy Shop: http://Elektrajewelry.etsy.com
Blog: http://elektrajewelry.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Mommy and Me Boutique

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Corline
California
Weloveetsy
Indipublic
PoshMoms

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

Paper dolls as a little girls, loved to draw the doll and make her little dresses;

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I love color and fabric. I also try to keep up on the latest in fashion, what colors are showing, how style is used. I incorporate these ideas into my aprons and children's items.

4. Why should people buy handmade?

Each items is unique. You get the passion behind the artist and you know that each item is made with love, care, personal inspiration.

5. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

I think I enjoy making the aprons. There seems to be a trend among the younger women to wear them - for some practical purposes but mostly for the fun of it.

Etsy Shop: http://mommyandmeboutique.etsy.com
Blog: http://themommyandmeboutique.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Silver Dragon

I have always been an artist and one of my earliest art memories is also one of the influences that has stayed with me from the very start. I was four years old and my nursery class had a field trip to a local museum in Rochester, NY. I was completely mesmerized by the textiles and beadwork of the native Americans. I don't know how long I stood there just gazing at the work and absorbing all that the creator had to say.

My path as an artist, however, was a duet of both fine and performing arts. I am a (retired) ballerina as well as a published artist, having done illustrations for a CD picture book, "Papa CArdinal Finds Breakfast" by Sandra Wellborn. One of my paintings accompanied an essay I wrote for an Astronomy textbook. (I also hold a Masters Degree in Astrophysics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY and have worked as an astronomer and still teach astronomy as an adjunct professor for University of Maryland University College.)

My work has continued to grow and expand and I now also count myself as a mistress of the art of beadweaving. My paintings and drawings are as important to me as ever, though, and I don't find enough time to do all that I want!

All of my work is one of a kind (with occasional limited editions -- I have a hard time doing things more than once!). I like to play with color and texture, experiment with shape and drape and form.

Human beings, I think, are happiest when they are allowed to create. I know this is true for me.

Etsy Shop: http://SilverDragon.etsy.com
Blog: http://vener-art.com/beadblog/

Featured Artist: Wyred on Wire

ARE YOU READY TO GET NOTICED?

Sit back and enjoy browsing all the eye candy and pretties that will get you noticed...

I was born and partially raised in NB Canada, I fell in love at the tender age of eight when as a Christmas gift my grandparents gave me a large beading kit from then on I was always making some form of jewelry or another. I still very much love making jewelry the only thing thats changed is my range of materials from plastic stretch cord and plastic pony beads to sterling silver and precious stones. Recently I have realized as an artist you cant completely limit your materials and be happy for to long and I have many ideas for fresh and unique designs using a variety of materials. Each piece of Jewelry I make is an extension of myself to you, there's no mass produced here just pieces that are as unique and special as you are.

I am a proud member of Etsy moms street team
and
Etsy Bags

Etsy Shop: http://wyredonwire.etsy.com
Blog: http://wyredonwire.blogspot.com
Website: http://www.freewebs.com/wyredonwire

Featured Artist: Banana Showcase

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

I am Kelly Van Voltenburg. I have been sewing since I received a refurbished sewing machine for my 14th birthday. I live in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas suburbs and have lived in Texas most of my life. I live with my husband, my 20 year old daughter and her 3 month old daughter. I babysit my granddaughter during the day while her mom works so that means that a good portion of my sewing gets done after everyone else is in bed. Oh and I am a VERY young grandmother! LOL

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

When I was about 4 or 5 my mom would make homemade dough for me. I would create little dolls and pets for them out of the dough. After that my mom would bake the dough so the dolls, cats, dogs, and bunnies would get hard. I would play with all of them until they broke into pieces and then the cycle would start all over again.

3. What is the best thing about your products?

I feel like I make a quality product that is both stylish and durable.

4. Why should people buy your product?

I design all of my own patterns so you will not see anything just like it anywhere else. Also I don't purchase a ton of each fabric that I get and I don't usually purchase the same fabric again. So there will be a limited amount of each item I make. And let's face it, buying handmade just rocks!

5. Who is your dream buyer?

I know lots of people dream of seeing their products being used by celebrities. I would rather tons of just everyday folks buy my products so that they become something recognizeable at a glance. I would love for someone to see me walking down the street and say "Oh I love that Banana Showcase purse that you are carrying."

Etsy Shop: http://BananaShowcase.etsy.com
Blog: http://kellyvanvoltenburg.typepad.com/bananashowcase/

Featured Artist: Creative Sundries

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

We are Sarah and Carol from Minnesota--daughter/mother and also friends. We have been part of Etsy since June, and it originally started as a destash effort. Since then we've become braver and have listed more and more of our handmade items. Our items include Loteria pendants; earrings made from fuses; fun charm jewelry; repurposed American Airlines trays, and handmade cards, along with some vintage treasures and ephemera (cool and unique papers and sundries).

2. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?
Many things! We are inspired by artist/crafting friends and colleagues; children; people who make space for art in their lives; kindness; nature; and more down-to-earth things like fun antique games, vintage children's books, Loteria cards, plastic charms, and pretty papers.

3. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?
Oh, don't make me choose! Lol... I really had fun making this Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda/Assemblage,
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7485870. I enjoyed gathering the materials--vintage deer playing card; kitschy plastic flowers (intended as a cake decoration); vintage plastic flowers; a cupcake liner; and fake flowers.

4. What is the best thing you have ever created?
It's hard to say "best," but I'm excited about a Brady Bunch in Hawaii necklace I just finished. :-) I'll be posting it soon!

Etsy Shop: http://creativesundries.etsy.com
Blog: http://creativesundries.blogspot.com
Blog: http://www.indiepublic.com/profiles/blog/list?user=creativesundries

Featured Artist: Adornments by BJ

CREATIVITY IN JEWELRY INVOLVES PASSION FOR THE ART

When an artist puts passion into their creativity, it often leads to striking results! Come browse and see for yourself!

My shop, Adornments by BJ (www.adornmentsbybj.etsy.com) contains a diverse collection of handcrafted, unique, quality jewelry sets to adorn even those with the most discriminating tastes. Consider visiting my shop and browsing through the 130+ photos and descriptions of my creative style. I will custom make a design and create a one-of-a-kind piece just for you.

My collection contains jewelry, all quality made with the finest of materials, to fit any budget, style, or special occasion whether it be casual or formal or somewhere in-between. Adornments to reflect your persona. It’s interesting to discover the metaphysical attributes of different stones and how they interact with our mood, physical being and personality.

My materials of choice include semi-precious Gemstones, Pearls, Swarovski crystals, Wood, Shells, Sterling Silver, and a recent addition: silk and braided cord for Chinese knotting. I also love discovering vintage jewelry to use in my creations.

My memberships include S.R.A.J.D. (Self-Representing Artist Jewelry Designer #0517), AJC (Art Jewelry Collective) and JET (Jewelry on Etsy Team). Photos of my jewelry are listed on Tribe.net, MySpace.com, Flickr.com, TalentDatabase.com, and many other sites as well.

On a more personal note, I am married and a mother of three daughters, ages 42, 34, and 32. I also have 6 grandchildren, ages between 7 months and 14 years of age (three girls and three boys) The youngest grandchild is a recent addition to our family, in fact she was adopted just recently from Viet Nam and she and her new parents are still there ~ finishing the process of 'red tape!

Another member of our family is our Jack Russell Terrier (or Terror, as we call him!). His name is Eddie and he keeps us hopping! I think he is finally calming down from his 'puppy stage' a bit. He is slightly over 2 years old.

My other interests are the Red Hat Society and playing the piano (when I get the chance!)

Etsy Shop: http://Adornmentsbybj.etsy.com
Blog: http://bjadornments.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Moda Designs

Name: Gina
Shop: ModaDesigns, CheapBoutique, JourneyInJewellery
Web Address: all of the above with .etsy.com added on :D

What inspires you?
I get a great deal of inspiration by seeing the amazing designs put up on Etsy. One just recently solved my quandry for making rings! I see how others make ear wires so I don't have to purchase them, I see how people have soldered something so it encourages me to learn to solder!

How long have you had your shop?
Almost two years on Etsy

Is this a job for you or a hobby?
It is my only source of income as I am disabled

How did you get into your craft?
It was the only craft that interrested me after my disabling accident. All other craft items I'm selling off in my CheapBoutique shop!

Do you have any advice for fellow Esty Shop owners?
Promote, promote, promote! Put your shop addy in your email's Signature file so it follows every email you send. Join interest groups and drop your shop name frequently. I found Etsy through just such an interest group-the woman had her shop name in her signature which followed her posting! Wear your own designs and tell people who compliment you on them that they are for sale! Stay active in the Forums and Chats! Many of my customers come to me from reading my posts in the forums!

Anything you would like to add?
Research every potential market. If it looks good, try it for a while. If it doesn't produce, drop it. Selling jewellery on Etsy has slowed to a non-existant crawl for me, so I spend my time looking for local outlets! I also sell supplies to support my jewellery shops!

Etsy Shop: http://modadesigns.etsy.com
Blog: http://modadesigns.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Studio Marcy

Studio Marcy will be one year old on Friday! One lampwork glass cupcake bead free with each order!!!*

Hi, I'm Marcy Lamberson, a glass artist who loves making people smile through my whimsical beads and sculptures.

I use a 2000 degree torch and most of my glass comes from Murano, Italy. Every piece is kiln annealed for durability.

I teach private and group lessons and enjoy taking on custom commissions. While working out of my sunroom studio overlooking my garden and birds, squirrels, chipmunks and occasional wandering possums, sometimes I just made them into beads too! . I make them wear clothes and jewelry when turning them into little fun glass pieces.

Check out my bio on www.etsyglass.com ( http://etsyglass.com/featuredartists.php?featured=4 ) and my blog at http://www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com.

New beads are added almost daily, so stop by often.

Thanks so much,
Marcy

Etsy Shop: http://StudioMarcy.etsy.com
Blog: http://studiomarcy.blogspot.com/

* See Marcy's Etsy Shop (http://StudioMarcy.etsy.com) for details.

Featured Artist: Little Bundles

Well hello there! Thank you for stopping by! I guess you are looking to learn a little about us. Ok, well here it goes...

The Company
Little Bundles is a baby clothing and accessories company located in New Brunswick, Canada that offers high quality goodies for style conscious parents. This handmade enterprise is run by two sisters, and it all began when an exhausting search for a special and unique gift came up empty. Frustrated by the lack of children’s items that did not have a cartoon character plastered all over them, these sisters sat down to create something different. Rest assured, while every product may look cool and hip, it is still practical.

Who Are They?
What a great question! One is a spunky, curly topped girl with a big smile and bright blue eyes, who loves to create and design. She can be found most days in the Little Bundles’ studios surrounded by fabric, ribbon and thread (oh and the essential cup of coffee) bringing some new creation or design to life.

The other is the complete opposite, a quiet, dark haired girl, whose hair is as straight as a pin. The grounded one of the two, she makes sure that each piece includes all the practicality and functionality that everyday life needs.

Both are passionate about combining modern colors and patterns with fresh designs to create fashionable alternatives for Moms and tots. They love to take boring baby basics and give them their unique twist to make them as functional as they are fancy. Their personal goal is to give everyone (no matter how small) the opportunity to let their individuality shine!

Who you’re talking to
Ever wonder who answers all those questions, convos, requests and emails? Well here at Little Bundles you’re always talking to a person. Sometimes it’s Jill, herself or it could be one of the fantastic supporters that stop by to help when things get busy. Either way we always try to get back to you as quickly as possible.

Wholesale Orders
We love them! If you are a boutique or website owner and are interested in offering our products to your customers, just drop us a line including your email address and a little about your business.

Etsy Shop: http://littlebundles.etsy.com
Blog: http://shopdragonflydesigns.com/blog/blogger.html

Featured Artist: Fancy Free Me

Fancy free means informal, liberated, natural and spontaneous.

Fancy Free Jewelry Design is handmade unique jewelry using sterling silver, natural gemstones, seashells, leather and glass. Designs are organic in nature with vintage, Asian and oceanic elements.

DEANNA ROUX
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I can't help it! Creative juice runs through me. I love to create! Among my original works of art are: written works (poetry, short stories, children's stories), glass murals, wall murals, acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, collage art, tile paintings, storybooks and jewelry (my favorite wearable art).

My most treasured original pieces of art are my two children (okay, my husband had something to do with that) who are pretty creative people as well -- in drawing, painting, dancing, music, writing and in humor.

MY WORK
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I make what I love. I only use the best materials I can get my hands on. I use sterling silver, glass, seashells, natural stones and leather. I go crazy when it's time to replenish my stock because it's so fun to mentally design new pieces as I shop.

Perfectionist, passionate, picky -- choose your descriptor. I make sure everything I create is something I love and something I would be happy with if I were the buyer. I have a pile of pricey "duds" that did not pass muster. But I have decided being particular is not such a bad thing after all! Because once you hold your new piece in your hands, you will feel the workmanship, the passion and the patience that each piece exudes.

UPCOMING SHOWS
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Saturday, November 17
9am – 3pm
Apple Pie Festival
William E. Norris School
Southampton, MA
http://www.town.southampton.ma.us/dbcc/norriselementary.php#

Friday, November 30, 10am – 5 pm
Saturday, December 1, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, December 2, noon – 4pm
Winter Festival
Marketplace@Eastworks
Easthampton, MA
http://www.eastworks.com/

Sunday, December 9
11am – 6pm
Holiday Arts Happening
DCU Center
Worcester, MA
http://www.startonthestreet.org/holiday-arts-happening

GALLERY PRESENCE
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ARTSTREAM STUDIOS: Some of my work is available at the stunning Rochester, New Hampshire gallery "artstream studios." If you find yourself streaming in that direction and want to check out some art, pop in on Susan and Mary Jo or visit their gallery online (www.artstreamstudios.com).

SKERA GALLERY: In beautiful, funky, hip downtown Northampton, Massachusetts you will find a special artisan gallery that hosts many beautiful, funky and hip artists. Stop by Skera and see for yourself or visit them online (www.skera.com).

Etsy Shop: http://FancyFreeMe.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.fancyfreeme.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: earthcharms

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

Kirsten
Santa Rosa, CA and I love it here!
I love playing Scrabble with my friends and taking pictures of things people usually ignore.

2. What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

I've always made things. My mother is very crafty and taught my sister and I how to use our imaginations and cultivate our creative eyes.

3. What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I have a muse that smacks me upside the head with ideas. They will come in a flash, then not leave my head until I make them. Sometimes they'll drive me crazy, like a song's chorus repeating in your head all day long!

4. Why should people buy handmade?

Every handmade piece has a soul. It was made with hope, and hope is something everyone needs more of!

5. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

Kyanite and tourmalated quartz are two of my huge weaknesses, so part of me really wants to keep this choker: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7498379

Etsy Shop: http://earthcharms.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.earth-charms.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Liz Staley

I grew up in Baltimore, but am now living in Greenville, NC. My mom got me into arts and crafts when I was really little (I wanted to help her paint ceramics when I was a baby, so she'd give me a paintbrush, a cup of water, and a rubber ducky. Took me awhile to figure out that it's supposed to change colors when you paint it though!). Ever since then I've loved to draw and create things.

Now, I love doing art, crocheting, and am getting into making ACEO cards and sewing. I've been crocheting and drawing for years. I also love to make button pins. I tend to go on what I like to call "craft binges", where I'll make a whole bunch of a certain thing, so if you see long stretches of buttons or crocheted items in my listings, you'll know I've been on one!

My hobbies when I'm not creating things are watching anime, playing tabletop role-playing games (Dungeons and Dragons; Big Eyes, Small Mouth; D20 Modern, West End Games' D6 System, etc), building web-pages, and playing on GaiaOnline[dot]com. I also have a gallery on DeviantArt and Flickr, both of which you can find with the user name lizstaley as well.

I find that I really enjoy blogging about my crafts as well! You can visit my blog at http://livewirechick.blogspot.com

In addition, I also write and illustrate a story that I publish to the web, and have been working on since I was a senior in high school. It's gone through many, many versions and updates, and I'm eventually thinking about having it published. You can check that out at http://www.oap-studios.com/akaryuu

Etsy Shop: http://lizstaley.etsy.com
Blog: http://livewirechick.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Blue Baby

1. Tell me a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).

My name is Amanda and I live in southern Michigan. I am a Christian who has been married for almost three years to the most wonderful man in the world, my husband Brien. We plan on starting a family soon, but for now it is just us and our dog Tazzie.

2. Why should people buy handmade?

I think with handmade items, there is so much more love and personal touches than with something that is just manufactured. I love the old-fashioned-ness of homemade items; its something you will never find in the aisle of a big retail store.

3. What is your favourite thing in your shop and why?

I absolutely love all of my hats. They are each comfortable, beautiful, and unique in their own special way. I plan on adding many more in the future.

4. If you had a client who had unlimited money, what would you create for him and why?

I would create anything within the range of my talents, the same as I would for any customer.

5. Who is your dream buyer?

I don't really have a dream buyer. I find pleasure in any buyer who finds pleasure in the gifts I have created for my shop.

Etsy Shop: http://bluebaby.etsy.com
Blog: http://bluebabyhomemadegifts.blogspot.com

Featured Artist: Yaslani

I was born and raised on the Jersey Shore and then moved to Los Angeles where I studied Fine Art -Painting at Otis Art Institute. Before long I found myself back in New Jersey where I detoured from art for a while and settled into a normal life fully stocked with a corporate job. Turns out normal isn’t for me. Making things is an addiction. A packrat by nature, I believe all items have a second life and I love using recycled items and supplies that are gentle to the environment.

My work consists of bamboo pendants and mixed media paintings. I use found objects, bamboo, ephemera, old paper, acrylic, goauche, pencils, pens, ink, glitter… and anything else within my grasp. I’m influenced by pop culture, color, music, animals, fashion, movies, magazines and too many artists to mention. There are no heavy messages in my work. I consider my art to be an aesthetic conversation. A lovely chat between friends sometimes relaying a story or an inside joke. The only judgement I make with my art is “am I feeling this or not.” The “not” pile gets recycled for another day.

Yaslani is the brainchild for all my creative outlets. There is so much more I plan to do. There are so many more beautiful conversations I plan to have and I’m still planning my escape from normal. Stay tuned.

Etsy Shop: http://Yaslani.etsy.com
Blog: http://yaslanisgroovespot.blogspot.com/

Featured Artist: Lost Mitten

Hello! My name is Lauren, I'm 25 years old, and I create all of the crafts for sale in the Lost Mitten Etsy Shop. I'm currently living in Brantford, Ontario, Canada with my fiance, Paul. My personal website is: lostmitten.org.

I have been creating handcrafted items for my Etsy shop, Lost Mitten, since September 2006. Paul and I are both huge video game addicts, ranging from the early days of the NES and SNES up to the latest games (especially for the Wii and DS!). I am continually inspired by my love for video games in creating many of my original crafts.

The items in my shop are all highly unique and original - I came up with all of the ideas on my own. I continually try to be creative by crafting new and interesting items for my shop.

In addition to video games, I love to knit and crochet! I also love to create journals and other paper goods, as well as needlepoint, acrylic felt creations, pinback buttons, and jewelry.

I hope that you enjoy the items in my shop, and that they make a wonderful gift for yourself or someone that you love!

Etsy Shop: http://lostmitten.etsy.com
Blog: http://blog.lostmitten.org

Featured Artist: Summer Sea

Welcome to Summer Sea Herbs!
Making herbal products is an absolute joy for me, and I know that my love of Nature comes through in my work! I'm a certified Herbalist with over ten years of experience healing with herbs.

I make my herbal products with the finest organically grown and ethically wild-crafted ingredients available. Why Organic? Because I believe that my products are truly better when I use ingredients which have NOT been irradiated, treated with pesticides or sprays. Your body and spirit needs good, clean energy! Making every product with only organic ingredients costs a little more, but it's worth it!

Summer Sea Herbs is a small company, and I personally make all of my products in small batches, by hand. This ensures quality control and product effectiveness.

With many years experience as a medical Herbalist, and many more as a practicing Green witch, all my products are made with great care and skill. Whether you want a delicious tea or need an incense blend to assist in magickal workings, you can be confident that I have taken great care in blending your item. All my medicinal and magickal formulas are tried and true, developed from the personal needs of my community over the years.I keep my product packaging to a minimum, re-usable and recyclable, to have a low impact on the environment. It makes me very happy to help people through the use of herbs!Thanks for shopping at Summer Sea Herbs ~ Tracyw.

Etsy Street Team
~Proud founder of EarthPath Artisans Street Team E.A.S.T. We are a group of people who walk similar alternative spiritual paths, focusing our beliefs in the world of Nature.

Please check me out at:
Etsy shop: http://Summersea.etsy.com
Blog: www.summerseaherbs.blogspot.com