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Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Feature Artist: Mommy and Me Boutique


I love to see stuff for kids and it's amazing how aprons have come into fashion again. This Lizards and Lollipops Toddler Art Apron is perfect to start with and sure will get your little one painting. And you don't have to worry about the mess... at least on him or herself. "The apron fits toddlers 2 to 5, machine washable, fully lined, and carefully made for long lasting wear." So I got to wait a while before my baby girl will be ready to wear this but it sure would look nice. She is more into this Bib and Burp set right now. I love the mod polka dots that would sure brighten up any meal. Her Bio sums it up with "Designer fabrics, beautiful trims and ribbons are the materials I love to work with to bring you items that you can be proud to purchase and enjoy using. Loving care and personal expression are put into each one. Aprons for adults and children are my specialty. Whether it be cooking or entertaining, these aprons are designed for today's mother and child to show off their own sense of style; you can be sure "these are not your mother’s aprons."
http://mommyandmeboutique.etsy.com
http://themommyandmeboutique.blogspot.com

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

100 and 1 Night Necklace


Yesterday I finished another Necklace. I think it is one of the most womanly I have done. It was giving me quite a headache on the way though. First, I wanted to make a pair of chandelier earrings with that swirl, but then the bail broke off and I had to start all over. At that point, I did not want to make earrings anymore. You know, the perils with earrings is that you have to make two! So here it is as a pendant. I might make a similar pair of earrings one day, but probably not too soon. This in progress picture shows how far I had gotten with it before it broke. That's what happens if you bend the wire too many times. The molecules in the silver get bunched up and it becomes brittle. Now interestingly enough, if I would have heated up the piece after working and bending it for a while, the molecules would have relaxed again and this would not have happened. But hey, I love to work extra!

Feature Artist: Becki's Designs


These Ponytail Holders are so much fun! I want to get them all! I so hope my baby girl will soon have nice long hair to wear some as well. Right now, her hair is only just covering her head, but I know it will be long and curly soon. Both me and my husband have curly hair. So I can't imagine she won't. But so far it's straight as can be! Anyhow, Becky does not only make these fun and glitzy ponies, she also hand makes custom jewelry. She works in so many different styles, that you are sure to find something that suites your taste. She also opened up a second shop with insightful and timeless handmade cards. Check it all out!
http://entyqua.etsy.com
http://beckisdesigns.blogspot.com/
http://delightfuldeceits.etsy.com

Monday, January 28, 2008

Feature Artist: On a Thousand Hills


On a Thousand Hills is a fairly new shop specializing in anything seed beads. Cheryl, the artist behind 'On a Thousand Hills' loves beading and the outdoors. Like this Porcelain Butterfly Cabochon Necklace that shows off a beautiful butterfly, nature is Cheryl's favorite theme to work with. You can see how much work goes in all her pieces and I can't wait to see what she will feature next.
http://onathousandhills.etsy.com
http://onathousandhills.blogspot.com

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Feature Artist: Shannon Saylor


You can never have enough jewelry! And it is amazing how may different styles are out there. Here are some whimsical and fun pieces from Shannon. I like this Lion Agate Necklace. It has just the right amount of little detail with the lion pendant and the cute heart clasp. Shannon is an animal lover and member of the Etsy for Animals (EFA) team. This month the Buckeye House Rabbit Society is pleased and honored to become the Charity of the Month (...) by Etsy for Animals and all the proceeds will go directly to that charity. I also enjoyed seeing this little Silver Charm Bracelet with its monkey, hat, I love music charm, grapes, butterfly, cookie jar, and frog. She does not only have animals in her jewelry, so check out the rest!
>http://ShannonSaylor.etsy.com

http://shannonsaylor-etsyshop.blogspot.com/

Saturday, January 26, 2008

New cute pendant!


Today I finished this lovely pendant. I call it Window to my Heart. I showed off the progress picture yesterday and this now is the end result. I love how cute, and delicate this one came out. Looks so dainty on the neck. I even had time to start another pair of chandelier earrings. My baby girl has been in such good spirits the last few days that I got to do more work than ever! Let's see if that keeps up.

Feature Artist: Made by Railyuh


Finally found a photographer to feature! I love photography and am running around myself with my camera when I can. It is so much fun, but even more fun to just see a finished photograph by another artist. i love how Railyuh takes photos of her subject that portrait them in a different angle. Like this photo of a Playground Caterpillar. Looks so stunning and timeless in black and white. She has a whole great looking playground series available in her shop. Railyuh says that: "I especially enjoy landscape photography and I think the beauty I see in the natural world inspires me to fill my home with natural handmade items. I also love viewing ordinary objects from different angles and perspectives in my black and white photography. I hope sharing my images will bring a little beauty into the lives of each person that views them". All of this becomes apparent when looking at her work.
http://railyuh.etsy.com
http://etsyfind.blogspot.com

Friday, January 25, 2008

New Earrings!


I just listed these small post earrings. I know it has been a few days. I'm busy working on getting the word out there about my work. But finally had to make more jhewelry instead of sitting in front of the computer all the time. I'm also working on this pendant and I think it is coming out beautifully. So cute and the heart briolette is just stunning in its color. But back to these earrings. They are very calming to look at with its pale color and soft movement. These are great for everyday wear!

Feature Artist: Elektra Jewelry


Elektra Jewelry offers beautiful handmade jewelry. All of the pieces are one of a kind and the designs will not be duplicated so 'each piece is yours alone'. I was immediately drawn to this Temple of the Stars Necklace Set. I love Labradorite and come to find out that this artist does too. The combination of the Labradorite with the blue Swarovski Crystals is especially lovely. One can see when looking at the collection of designs, that they are made with care. She says herself that: "My time and energy is devoted to creating pieces that can be worn and enjoyed for years to come". It's interesting to read in her Bio that the artist always had been drawn to all things that shimmer and shine, using glitter on everything that she could find as a child. Now she must have grown up, because these pieces of jewelry are anything but pure glitter - they are sophisticated and perfect for any occasion.
http://Elektrajewelry.etsy.com
http://elektrajewelry.blogspot.com/

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Feature Artist: Cat’s Paw Artifacts


Beads anyone? Of course, as a jewelry artists, I love beads. And even though I do not currently use glass beads in my creations, I do love seeing them. Judy makes some really unique and playful glass beads. She has a degree Technical Theatre and did Coursework in Graphic Design and lampworking. She also is a Member of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers. I would choose this elegant long Organic Lampwork Focal Bead with foil. It looks stunning! Or the Pattern Play Focal Bead. I think that all the very long beads are amazing and could be worked into something beautiful. Can't wait to see more of them!
http://www.catldy99.etsy.com/
http://www.catldy99.wordpress.com/

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Simply Fancy New Pendant


I listed this swooping new Simply Fancy Pendant yesterday. I love the elegant clean lines on this one with just the right amount of drama. This is also a smaller piece. I guess I should make a big and bold pendant next. It's funny, my earrings have been huge and my pendants small lately. Just realized that. Got to mix it up!

Feature Artist: Purple Snowpea


I don't see the end of winter yet here in New England! Still lot's of snow (which I do like) and ice cold (don't like). I was just outside and it was freezing. So maybe I do need those wristwarmers that I have been seeing on Etsy all the time. I love the idea and Purple Snowpea has a few to offer. I like these Pink Striped Wristwarmers the best. They look so cozy. but the hats are even more exciting. I LOVE this turquoise one - my favorite color. Kathryn says that she actually "was a photography major, but also enjoys bookmaking and knitting". So her shop is also filled with beautiful photographs and a few books.
http://PurpleSnowpeas.etsy.com
http://purple-snowpeas-shop.blogspot.com

Monday, January 21, 2008

Feature Artist: Autumn Leah


I just found Autumn Leah's shop and it's all full of Hearts! Makes me feel the love and so much to choose from. But I really like this Sweetheart necklace. "This necklace is so sweet and perfect for a mom or grandma this valentines day!" Leah will custom make 2 hearts with photos of your choice and attach them to a ribbon necklace. You can clearly see that she has a degree in graphic design and that your photos are in good hands with her. Take a look at all the other items - http://autumnleah.etsy.com
>http://autumnleahdesigns.blogspot.com

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Valentine's Day Collection



Valentine's Day is really just around the corner and I realized that I have quite and assortment of perfect gifts for that occasion. There are some literal pieces such as the Be My Valentine Heart, but also some funky hearts over in my other Kaleidoscope Style Shop. Those are fun!!! And then I have pieces that show warms and love with their color or form. check them all out in my shop!!!

Feature Artist: Crafty Moose


Crafty Moose is an interesting shop with all kinds of goodies. I'm into their bead items (of course) and like this Puffin, Puffin Suncatcher. It is a great idea to make one out of seed beads that must catch the light nicely. I would like to see that one in a window! Debbie of Crafty Moose says about herself: "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". It is amazing how so many artists at etsy love to work in many different media. You just can leave it at one. There is so much out there. My Dad just said the other day that I have so many supplies to work 'til I'm way over 100. Hope that will come true. The Horror Story Aceo is another favorite of mine. I can totally see my little baby girl being like that in no time...if I even let her read those!
http://craftymoose.etsy.com
http://craftymoosecrafts.blogspot.com

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Feature Artist: Celtic Goddess


Ready to be a goddess? At Celtic Goddess you can find all your adornments for that occasion. Andee Harston, the artist behind Celtic Goddess is creating "celtic and pagan inspired jewelry, art and bath and body products". I especially like the headpieces. Of course, they can only be worn for special occasions. But have you not put on a necklace as a headpiece when you where young and pretended to be a princess or goddess! I sure did! And wish now I would have worn one for my wedding. See all her other heavenly pieces at http://celticgoddessjewelry.etsy.com and >http://buyindie.blogspot.com/
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Thursday, January 17, 2008

2 New Pieces


I just listed another piece Purple Loveand never got to talk about the pendant In the Eye of the Beholder I finished the other day. Both of them are purple. I LOVE purple! It just adds the right amount of color without being overbearing. So if you are not sure what to wear one day, just go with some purple. You won't feel all decked in color but won't look dreary either. I can't believe how many pieces of jewelry I have been making these days. It's fun to finally get to all those sketches I have. Got to take a picture of some of my sketches soon to show you how it all starts. Maybe tomorrow.

Feature Artist: Mineral Magic


OK, not an artist in the conventional sense, but if commercial makeup is troubling you skin, you will be happy to hear that there is hope. Mineral Magic is made of "100% Pure, Vegan Mineral: Mica, Oxides, UMB, and Kaolin clay" "It has a high SPF, is an anti-inflammatory for your skin, and 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. And last but not least, there is also virtually no allergy risk." Sounds great to me and they do have so many shades to choose to mix and match. So it should not be hard to find a perfect new makeup for the perfect new year. Let's hope the year will be perfect!

http://MINERALMAGIC.etsy.com
http://mineralmagic.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Feature Artist: Giftbearer


Another jake of all trades...crafty trades that is! Pippit's main shop is all about jewelry. She specializes in high end tribal jewelry that is all organic, flowing, and beautiful. Of course, I had to choose the most expensive item in her shop as by favorite - the Budding Vine Bracelet. Does that ever happen to you? I go in a store or online shop and the one item that I really like is also the most expensive one in there. Good taste comes with a price! Pippit is also the initiator of 90 Features in 90 Days Challenge and "works in several mediums; including acrylics, watercolor, drawing, clay sculpture, and jewelry. A multicultural influence is evident in her work reflecting a diverse heritage of Iroquois Indian, Hawaiian, Russian Jewish, and French Canadian. She is strongly influenced by nature, political and social issues, and uses her art to educate the public." You have to go look at her shop to see all the things she's been working on!

http://Giftbearer.etsy.com
http://GiftbearerSupply.etsy.com
http://artlifenewsblog.blogspot.com

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

New Shop!!!!!



After working like crazy the last few weeks with my sister to get our joint shop up on Etsy, the day finally arrived and we posted a bunch of items!!! I love having my beautiful wire wrapped jewelry shop, but opening this Beaded Designs shop with my sister was, and still, is so much fun. How could it be any different with the type of items we are offering. All of the pieces are made of felt that is hand embroidered by my sister. It's amazing the designs she comes up with! I then get to decide what each of those embroidered felt swatches is going to become. So I finish them into pendants, pins, barrettes, bracelets,... you name it! I can't tell you often enough how much fun it is to work together and be able to through ideas back and forth. I hope everyone else on Etsy is as excited about our goods as we are and we can keep on making and making... Let me know what you think!

Monday, January 14, 2008

Feature Artist: Elle Belle on Etsy

Being a mom, I was happy when I came across Elle Belle. I had been looking for a baby sling for quite some time but all they had in the stores were those strap in carriers. We already have one and my baby girl was just getting too heavy for it. Really hurt my back! The baby slings are sooo much better. I can move her around and she is not as constrained. And Elle Belle is offering so many stylish colors for their slings. Elle Belle's baby items are made by Moms who realized that: "collaborating is more fun and makes for a shop full of things we all absolutely couldn't live without". I absolutely agree. Now I saw these Count and Spell Bean Bags and know my baby would definitely love them. And I really like how Elle Belle points out..."There's a reason teachers love to use bean bags in their classrooms. In addition to developing gross motor skills, they're a really fun way to teach letter recognition, phonics, spelling, shapes and counting. You'll be amazed by the imaginative play these beanbags will cultivate in your child! No batteries required!" Got to get playing!

http://ellebelleonetsy.etsy.com
http://ellebelleblog.blogspot.com

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Elegant little earrings


Yesterday my mother-in-law came by and played with my baby girl all day long. That gave me enough time to start and finish this pair of Philosophy Earrings. Feels great to after always needing at least 2 days to finish a piece of jewelry.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Feature Artist - My Cat Lulu


I just love the cards at My Cat Lulu! They are just so different and creative. I especially can't stop smiling when I look at the Gocco Rudolph Seahorses Cards. it's the coolest idea to do silhouette animals with little red Rodolph noses. These are the best Christmas cards ever. Becca, the artist of this shop, also has great Valentine's Day Cards right now that are just filled with love. Also check out the card making process picture for that card. Well, I can't wait to see what other cards she will design, so check her shop often. I sure will.



http://mycatlulu.etsy.com
http://mycatlulu.blogspot.com