Leakhena

Featured Seller: ellaminnowpeadesigns

2010-10-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

Did I mention I love babies? Not just babies but baby items. I cannot wait to be a Mum someday. I catch myself staring at baby clothes for hours, when I'm shopping for baby gifts and imagining what it would be like one day to have a little one of my own. The shop I'm featuring today has such cute baby items. Angela is the proud owner behind the little shop ellaminnowpeadesigns. Her hope is that people will see the love she puts into each and every handmade pieces and be drawn to her passion for creation. " Every item is an expression of myself and a way that I can share the gift God has given me" Take a few minutes to read the interview I had with her and get to know this awesome Etsian (:

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
My name is Angela, I currently live in San Antonio, Texas with my husband and children. My hubby is an Iraq war veteran who enjoys a change of scenery about ever 12-18 months. To say the least, we tend to move quite often. However, I think we have finally made our home down here in San Antonio. I truly am a Midwestern girl at heart, though. Born in Sioux City, IA and raised in Omaha, NE. I enjoy going back and visiting every once in a while to fullfill my cow tipping urges. GO HUSKERS!

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
How long can this be again?! LOL! Oh boy, what DON’T I do would be a shorter list I think. Well, obviously I love to sew. Sewing is a very huge passion of mine that I just recently picked about up again about 2 months ago when my hubby and I finally unpacked my sewing supplies that was in storage for about 3 years. I also enjoy baking (surprise-surprise) but not cooking. I can make a mean whatever in the oven but when it comes to cooking on that skillet, fuhgetaboutit. It will be edible and tasty but not mind-blowing and fantastic. I have a passion for volunteering and the elderly. Currently, I volunteer to make “memory bears" for VISTAS Hospice Care center down here in Texas. I take clothing from a deceased patient and make keepsake bears for their family members. I also love to dance (mainly to the ABC song now with my daughter), photography, working out to keep my girlish figure (or what’s left of it after 3 children), repaint sad depressing furniture in my garage, power tools, watching movies (I LOVE scary), making out with my hubby (ha ha ha, well it’s true, gotta keep that spark alive), etc.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
I’ve been an artist since I could hold a crayon in my tiny little chubby fingers. My earliest recollection of school was making lady bugs during art in my kindergarten class. Most of the kids did the obvious head, body, dots on back, but I did all of that and then added a pink bow and antennas and pink rosy cheeks. In first grade, I created some art that was hung up in the art class the whole rest of the year, second grade I created the school reading program book mark, 3rd grade I made a paper mache dragon that was displayed in the principals front office for the whole year, etc. You get the idea. I’ve always loved art and I think like an artist too. My husband is a very clean organized person so we tend to butt heads in the cleaning department. You should see my sewing room, it looks like a fabric store explosion! It’s the only room in the house that I am allowed to let go and mess up till my little hearts content and I LOVE IT. It barfs creativity all over the floor and walls.

Ella Minnow Pea Boutique started about 3 months ago when my Husband’s coworkers threw me a “surprise baby shower.” One of the gifts was this adorable hooded towel. I loved how soft and luxurious it was and I didn’t want to use it for the longest time because I felt like it was too precious to use and get pooped on. So I took a look at it and made a different one to use for the children. My daughter loved it so much I had to make one for her. My husband loved it and asked me to make one for our family friends who were having a baby. I really had a good time sewing them but I felt like if I didn’t stop I was going to turn all of our towels into hooded towels. So, after I tweeked the design and made it my own, I opened up an Etsy store and started selling them which in turn started a chain reaction of handmade baby gear.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
Two words, NAP- TIME. Its like every time I say those beautiful words the heavens open up, birds start to chirp, and angels begin to sing. That, my dear, is a very lovely time in my day. That is the one time in my day where I have “me” time. That is when the sewing magic happens.
It starts with a fabric. I spend a lot of time in this section feeling and comparing. Then I head to the ribbon section and find coordinating ribbons to match the fabric. After that, I head over to the department stores and find towels that match and feel buttery soft to the touch. I then go home and wait until nap time when I can start cutting and preparing my fabrics. The next day I sew sew sew! I like to listen to Pandora when I create. Right now on my creative playlist is piano and Brazilian Jazz.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
Anything made by my Grandmother. I was very close with my Grandmother. I am a lot like her, a fiery Norwegian hottie with a creative edge to boot. I have an afghan that she made me several years ago that I treasure. It has a small hole in it but I’m hoping one day to have that part fixed.

6.Name your top five books
1. Anything Amish related by either Wanda E. Brunstetter or Beverly Lewis
2. The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
3. Dolores Claiborne by Stephen King
4. My Enemy’s Cradle by Sara Young
5. Yes, sadly, the Harry Potter series. Darn you Harry Potter and your amazing wizarding skills. I used to think these books were ridiculous, until I read the first one... it was all downhill from then on out.
6. My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult
7. Number The Stars by Lois Lowry
OOPS I suppose I will stop there... I’m just... er... thinking outside the box, ha ha ha!

7. MUSIC:
I enjoy a broad range of musical tastes. Anything from piano to techno. I tend to give every musical experience a chance. I just know that even if it may not be my personal taste, someone out there put hard work and dedication into that piece and I can respect that.

8. WEBSITES:
I’m huge on blog surfing right now. I got started by reading Cake Wrecks and Little Inspirations. I branched out from there and now I am subscribed to almost 50 different blogs. Mostly craft and home decor type blogs.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
My best advice that I can give new Etsy sellers is to promote. You can have the most amazing items for sale but if you don’t promote your business, no one is going to know about them. Also, get to know other sellers and their items. Etsy is a community full of amazing and talented people! You are one click away from finding a new best friend on Etsy because we are all pretty much exactly alike. The one thing that drives me crazy is when a person who is new plays the “I haven’t gotten any sales yet, whats wrong with me.” I do not like the “woah is me” approach. Be proud of who you are and what you sell! Don’t think “what’s wrong with me,” be positive and think “I have some pretty amazing items and it’s my duty to share these with everyone.” Spread your creative love! Be positive!

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I really like the chat area where you can just bs with others and check out their items. It’s pretty addicting. I only shop handmade now when I purchase gifts for others. A lot of the times, if I see something I want I will heart it and then go back and buy it later. If I think something is neat, I will repost the image for others to see. I also really love “5 min FS” chat. Oh boy can my pocket book get in trouble with that one.
A new feature that I would like to see is maybe a shipping calculator or helper. That is the hardest thing still for me to figure out. I want to get the best possible price for shipping and I'm still learning the best way to package my items. Maybe something that could compare prices from all the shipping businesses out there. I dunno, maybe there is something like that already but I just don't know about it.

11. How do you promote your work?
Craigslist, online classified ads, Etsy chats, Facebook, business cards, posters, local play centers, word-of-mouth, etc. I am really really good at promoting and I can thank my best friend Tiffany for that. In my single young-er days, I was a booking agent for her business. Amongst paperwork, I would scout models and book them for local and midwest events. We also booked bands for local venues. I learned how to talk to people and businesses in order to get things accomplished. I learned how to work with others in the same industry and build a networking web. I learned the phrase “persistence breaks resistance.” I also learned that no matter how small your business may be, always represent it as if it is the biggest most important business in it’s industry. Treat it as such. Always be professional and ready for anything.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
I would like to open my own local consignment boutique shop here in San Antonio. Where I can sell children’s clothing and my handmade items. I would love to have my own store!

Featured Seller: SmudgedLove

2010-09-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

How many of you out there are coffee drinkers or tea drinkers ? I am an avid tea drinker. In fact, I start my morning with a cup of hot tea everyday and then I drink throughout the day. Green tea is my favorite but I also love mint tea and jasmine tea. THey're so good and refreshing. My featured seller is Jessie from SmudgedLove and she makes these beautiful cup cozies, perfect for keepiing hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold because inside each of these cozies lie a layer of Insul-brite. Not only does she make coffee cozies, there are coasters, pouches, quilts and stich markers, among other things. Check out this awesome interview I recently had with her. Get to know this great seller

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
1. My name is Jessie and I live in Eugene, Oregon. I’m new to the Etsy scene. My shop’s name, SmudgedLove, is named for my cat, Smudge. He is a big black and white cat whose super furry. He likes to approve everything I’m working on, especially quilts. No matter what he’s doing, whenever I lay a quilt out to pin it he thinks he needs to lie on it. I had been a teacher for 2 years, but lost my job and started questioning career choices. As a way to cope, I started crafting a lot more than I used to. I started making quilts for the Quilts for Kids program. It was a lot of fun and a nice way to use my time. Many friends had said I should sell my items on Etsy. I hadn’t yet opened a store because I couldn’t think of a name. One day the name came to me, and I started the shop.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
2. Besides creating things, I do a lot of job hunting. I’m also trying to figure out which career path to take. I also read a lot. I love going to the local library.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
3. I’m not sure what first made me want to an artist. I never really think of myself as an artist. I’m a quilter and I like to create other quilted things. My mom is a sewer. She tells stories of how she had me right next to her on the sewing table while she sewed when I was a baby. She taught me to sew at a very young age. I was never a garment sewer and really did a lot more quilting as I grew older.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc
4. Hmm, the creative process. Well, I love fabric, cottons to be specific. Since I was little I would run my hands over clothes and wouldn’t try them on unless they felt good. I drove my mother nuts. I do the same thing with fabric. It just has to feel good. I really like putting the colors together. I have this weird thing where I can sort of see the colors and quilt pattern in my head. Most of the time, the colors work out. My mom always calls me when her quilt color problems. I also like to draft patterns from pictures I’ve seen. When I’m putting fabrics together it seems that I create a fabric explosion in my apartment. There are piles of fabric everywhere. Sometimes it’s relatively contained, but if I’m trying to create something from my stash, the fabric just takes over.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
5. Well, probably the most cherished handmade possession I have is a teddy bear named Aloysius, pronounced al-oo-ISH-us. My mom made this bear for me as a Christmas present when I was two. This bear looks kind of like the bear in the BBC version of Brideshead Revisited so my mom named him after that bear, Aloysius. He goes to wherever I’m living. When I went away to college he came with me. Another one of my most treasured handmade possessions is from my maternal grandmother. She was also a sewer. However, this isn’t a sewn item, this is a basket that she made for me one Christmas.

6.Name your top five books
6. Books, well, hmm, that one’s tricky. I’ll have to go look at the bookcase. It’s really hard to choose just five books. However, these are the five that popped out at me first and then I made myself stop. These are in no particular order.
• Prodigal Summer, by Barbara Kingsolver
• A Short History of Nearly Everything, by Bill Bryson (yes, I’m a science nerd)
• Tales of the City, by Amistaud Maupin (the whole series is good)
• The Cat Who Wore a Pot On Her Head by Jan Slepian and Ann Seidler (a beloved children’s story)
• The Dragon in the Cliff, by Sheila Cole (this is a chapter book for young readers)

7. MUSIC:
7. My favorite band is the Dave Matthews Band. I pretty much listen to most everything. I don’t like rap and I’m not a fan of country music. As I got older I began to appreciate all the jazz my parents played when I was younger. I like classical music too, especially Chopin. I grew up playing piano and later the oboe.

8. WEBSITES:
8. Websites, okay, I’m going to assume these are websites that I like and frequent.
• www.craftster.org
• www.modabakeshop.com
• www.sewmamsew.com
• www.fabri c.com
• other sewing blogs

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
9. Advice for new people on Etsy. Tricky question to answer since I’m still new too. I guess the biggest thing would be to ask questions when you don’t understand something. That’s the most useful. I’ve also read some of the blog posts as far as how to tag items and taking pictures, etc.

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
10. I don’t know what my favorite features are on Etsy. I’ve been enjoying the chat rooms though. It’s neat to talk to other Etsians.

11. How do you promote your work?
11. Promoting is difficult. That’s something I’m still trying to figure out.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
12. In ten years, I would hope that I’d have a job of some sort. I’d also like to have my own house. I hope that I’m also still quilting and have been successful on Etsy.

Featured Seller: graciebeal

2010-09-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

This is probably the best part of my week. I love featuring new shops and especially great shops. If you are looking for beautiful jewelry with funky color combinations then you need to check out graciebeal.
She recently just opened her Etsy shop but has beautiful items to choose from and plus, she can custom make your earrings. Her prices are unbeatable. Check out the interview I recently had with her. Enjoy!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
I'm Gracie Beal, and I'm located in Dallas, Texas. My earrings are currently being sold at The Impeccable Pig. Be sure to stop by the next time you're in Dallas! I love making earrings and I hope my customers love the earrings.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
In my free time, I like to make earrings and hang out with friends! I take vocal lessons and love to act and cheerlead!

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
I've always been creative, so I was looking more or less for an outlet for that creativity. I loved to make things that turned out to be beautiful from simple materials. So I turned to making earrings. I fell in love with it.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
I make earrings whenever I'm feeling creative or when inspiration strikes me. I love using gold plated and sterling silver wires and hooks, and irregular shaped beads and costume beads are my favorites.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
I would say that the handmade possesion I most cherish would be a beautiful quilt that my aunt crotched for me. It's a gorgeous combination of colors and it cannot be replaced.

6.Name your top five books

7. MUSIC:
I don't really have a top 5 on music, I really like current music and soft rock, rap, jazz, anything works. :)

8. WEBSITES:
Etsy, Facebook, Ebay, Yola, Google

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
I would say that the most important thing is to not give up. I know it sounds cliche but it truly is one of the most important things you can do

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
My favorite features are the chat rooms and easy setup. I'd like it if maybe they had different premade layouts you could choose for your shop!

11. How do you promote your work?
I tell my friends about it, I have my family wear my earrings and if asked they say I made them, I sell them on cards with my information on it, anything I can do to spread the word, really.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
Enjoying my life and having as much fun as I am now!

Featured Seller: AronaWalsh

2010-08-06T10:18:00.000-07:00

Our Featured Seller today is the lovely and talented Elizabeth from AronaWalsh. She joined Etsy back in October 9, 2008 but has been sewing and creating for many years. She specializes in fashion illustration, portraits but most of all in sewing. I'm so thrill to be able to share her passion for sewing with all of you. Take a few minutes to sit back and read the interview. Get to know AronaWalsh :)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
My name is Elisabeth Arona Walsh, the Arona (Uh-ron-uh) part is the name of my shop along with my last name. My middle name is from my dad whose name is Aron, he claims it was a joke that my mom ran with, but we all know he was secretly pleased. My last name is from my Irish and Scottish roots on my daddy's side (I just found this out not too long ago and am super fascinated by it.) I am a Southern girl, born and raised in Georgia near the big city of Atlanta. I like quiet and space, but I LOVE having every restaurant and shopping place within walking distance too. I graduated from Bauder College in Atlanta with an Associates Degree in Fashion Design but always enjoyed drawing and creating even before then. I am 22 years old and still live at home with my parents, two unmarried sisters, and two little adopted sisters. My bedroom is my workspace and place to sleep which means it's always super messy.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I am a Christian so much of what I do is church-related. I sing in the choir, teach Sunday school, sometimes go with my sister and a couple friends to sing at churches, and help organize church events at my church. Otherwise I sewsewsew, hang with my sisters, leave town as often as I possibly can, carry my sketchpad with me everywhere, go to craft stores, watch design shows, cook, eat lots of chocolate, and try new ideas and foods with my crafty friend.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
I don't remember actually deciding. When I was little I was always starting stories (which I never finished,) daydreaming, and drawing...When I got older and thought about college I couldn't imagine not going for something artistic and creative. I loved college in a way that I didn't really expect. Something about seeing something pretty that I made myself makes me so so happy.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
Generally I am most inspired to actually work at night...like late...11 pm and up through 2 am. I sew much better then, and my sketches don't need as much erasing. All during the day though I write notes and sketch illustrations of things that I want to create. I email my friend Tay (www.taymaree.etsy.com) way too much and ask her opinion on designs or send her pictures of sketches or works in progress. I rarely make anything without running it by someone with good taste. When I express a design to someone else I can better decide whether to revise, keep, or just trash it. I am inspired most by color, fabrics, and nature. I keep design shows running on my computer a lot while I'm working, sometimes my laptop sits on my sewing machine table so I can see while I work and I'll get up and sketch because I see a pattern or fabric that I love the look of. For clothing right now I am using mostly soft flowing fabrics, great for summer. I am really getting into using knits now too, and I do like sheer and thin fabrics a lot. Cotton blends are on the top of my list of favorites.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
I don't know if it counts since I can't find it...but I was given a necklace by a close friend. It was made from a leather shoe lace, and a penny that I'd had smashed at a amusement park we'd both gone to. He had a hole punched in the penny and attached it to the leather with some sort of fishing wire piece. I loved rubbing the smooth side of the penny when I was bored. I took it off one day and never saw it again.

6.Name your top five books
Doesn't she look natural? by Angela Hunt
Pride and Prejudice
The Bible
Finding hope by Brenda Coulter
and The Baxter family series by Karen Kingsbury

7. MUSIC:
Cece Winans
Michael Buble
Lisa Page Brooks
Nat King Cole

8. WEBSITES:
www.lizzisays.blogspot.com
www.Facebook.com
www.Hulu.com
www.Etsy.com

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
The way I did it was the way NOT to do it. I put one item on etsy and left it. I found out people bought things by checking my email. So here it is: Be courteous, be consistent, and take care with your item photos and descriptions.

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I would like a feature where there are ways to save emails so they're not ALL in the same place. I'd also like to have a way to link sellers with buyers more reliable than tags.

11. How do you promote your work?
I write about it on my blog (www.lizzisays.blogspot.com). I have a facebook fanpage (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Arona-Designs/113131948718073). I am working on sending a couple clothing items to people who can advertise by wearing them and hoping that will work. I'm kinda nervous about really putting myself out there.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be??
Hopefully married, and still doing most of what I'm doing now only with better results.

My very First Treasury

2010-07-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be able to share my very first treasury I made with all of you.
Yes,I finally figured out how to make one. It only took me like a year. LOL
I cant wait to make more and to include even more amazing artists on Etsy.
So, here it is. I hope you enjoy.
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c4be363f31c8eefe7bae67f/a-few-of-my-favorites?index=10

Friday Feature: AshleysHomeSpun

2010-07-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

I love crocheted items and knitted items but mostly anything homemade I love. If you looking for scarves, hats, neck warmers, ipod holders that are crocheted, you have come to the right place. My featured seller for today is Ashley from AshleysHomeSpun. Take a few minutes to read the interview I've had with her. Enjoy

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)

My name is Ashley, I am a small town girl located in Azle, TX. I started crocheting at the age 14 and Knitting at age 16. But I didn't really get good until I turned 17, once I realized people liked my work and wanted me to make things for them I decided that it was time to start selling my items. I tried Ebay but no luck there, but one day my boyfriend gave me a business card to someone that made scarves. I had no idea what Etsy was and thought her website name was a little too long. I went to her site (which was on Etsy) and almost had a heart attack. Etsy was a perfect place for me. So I instantly signed up, and then got a paypal. After about...6 months I've really expanded my creations. I've started to sew, loom, and even hand weave. I love making baby items, scarves, hats, ipod covers, coffee sleeves, ext. Pretty much anything and everything that has to do with yarn.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Well I've recently got a job house sitting for the summer and will start that soon. I've just graduated high school and will hopefully start college in September. Besides creating clothing and accessories; I love to bake. Which is why I've chosen a Culinary College to attend. Before that I was in color guard, and an active member in S.A.D.D. (students against distructive descitions).

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

Actually two main people, the person that started me crocheting was a lady in my church. She had llamas and made her own yarn. She gave me a roll of llama yarn and a green J crocheting hook; which I still use today.

The person that started me knitting was...well ever heard of a TV show called "That's So Raven"? Well one night that's all that was on so I started to watch it, and the dad had started knitting and I like what he made. I had no idea how much work it would really be.
But after seening that I begged my mom to take me out and get me some knitting supplies. After awhile she decided that she wanted to knit too. I ended up teaching myself (from a book) and my mom.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

When I make a scarf I usually look around Etsy for neat looking items, when I'm inspired I'll alter what I see and make it my own. I will either use my knitting needles or crochet hook and a bunch of different yarn. I'll probably restart about 4 times before I like the way it looks. I work on the item in the morning through the night from anywhere from 3 days to a week. When it's finish I take it to a bunch of different people getting opinions and prices. So the what you see in my shop has all been thumb up from about 5 or 6 different people. I'm a perfectionist.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?

The handmade possession I cherish most would have to be my first scarf I've ever knit. It has holes, only 16 inches long, and randomly changes shape. I take it out when I want a good laugh and a little boost.

6.Name your top five books

Books? Um...I don't use books (except for starting out on knitting). But if you want to learn how to start knitting or crocheting I recommend someone that already knows how too. Or the internet. It's amazing how many youtube videos there are about starting out.

But the books I love to Read would be: The Summoning, The Awakening, and the Reconning by Kelley Armstrong. (It's a trilogy). The other two books I love is Fly on the Wall by E. Lockheart, and The Other Girl by Sarah Miller.

7. MUSIC:

Um...that would be Avril Lavinge (anything she sings), Lady Gaga, Ke$ah, and Bowling For Soup.

8. WEBSITES:Youtube, Facebook, Myspace, and Etsy.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?

Don't give up, but don't over work. You WILL burn yourself out, I'm saying this from experiance. Post things you KNOW your good at, but try new things. Don't be afraid to buy new things, and start new hobbies. You'll never know what you will be good at. OH! Don't down price your items, just because you haven't sold. Sometimes you may over price that is true, but go with your gut, usually the price you've set is perfect. Give it time, you'll make a sale soon enough. (Also check around at other prices).

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

My favorite featured items have to be the jewelry! I love looking at what people can create with some wire and beads.

BUT I would love to see more BUTTONS on Etsy. I love reading buttons and I love owning buttons. Expecially, the small ones that I can put on my purse or hat.

11. How do you promote your work?

I have business cards and I give some items as birthday gifts. But for everyone over 18 the chats and forums work very well too.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????

Well I would like to be married, kids, and own my own Bakery/My Creation store. Half would be baked goods, and the other half a store for all my hand made items. I would hopefully be successful on Etsy by then too.

Friday Featured Seller: ObsidianStudios

2010-06-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan of Marvel comics, then you need to check out ObsidianStudios
I was truly blown away by his work. I grew up with brothers so I was quite familiar with Superheroes & Villains in the Comic Book Universe. Ian is the creative person behind ObsidianStudios. His work captures the true essence of what comics is all about. He has done quite a few professional sketch card sets, and published an independent comic title called " White Ninja Guy". Sit back, relax and get to know this awesome artist and be prepared to be blown away :)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
Ian Walker
Santa Rosa Ca
26 years old
Married father of 1.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
Read, Write, create music

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
Drawing since I was 5 years old. Became really serious over a spa

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
How, I do my work with a combination of copic markers, and prismacolor markers. Sometimes I use an acrylic gouash for highlights and shines.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
my sketchbooks. one in particular is one my wife gave me as a gift. it will be the first one I will ever fill completely.

6.Name your top five books
R.A. Salvatore's Legend of Drizzt Series, The Bible, Graphic Novels, Star Wars Novels. There are really too many to number!

7. MUSIC:
R&B, VERY selective Rap, and very selective country music.

8. WEBSITES:

http://obsidianstudios.blogspot.com
http://darkmyster.deviantart.com
http://www.whiteninjaguy.com

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
Be patient, and create and put up your best. Do a lot of networking, and worry more about hearts than sales when you first start. Those are the ones that will potentially return during the holidays if you consistently put up great art that never leaves their mind

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
Community chat is nice. I would like to see more things relating to the community. Marketing seminars would be nice.

11. How do you promote your work?
Word of mouth mostly, and through my business cards, and website.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
Working hard for my family to the point that my wife no longer has to work.

Friday Feature: taliepstein

2010-06-11T09:58:00.000-07:00

Love fashionable clothing that are both flattering to your figure and make you feel comfortable ? Tali Epstein is the name you need to remember. She is the proud owner of Tali Epstein and also an amazing young designer with passion for fashion. She quoted, " Women should look good AND feel good. My designs make people noticed" That's exactly what will happen when you wear items from Tali Epstein. Each items are made to suit your body. Aren't you glad for custom orders?
I recently interviewed Tali so sit back and get to know Tali Epstein and her amazing creations

1.Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)

My name is Tali Epstein, I live in Israel. I'm about to graduate from a fashion college in Tel Aviv. I love chic, vintage and feminine stuff. I find designing clothes for women very interesting; finding the correct fit and style that most flatters individual women.
Women should look good and feel good: my goal is to create clothing that women can actually wear and enjoy.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?

When I'm not creating, I think of the things I'd like to create! I gather inspirational materials all the time.
I just started my Etsy shop a month ago and I'm working to improve it all the time. In addition, I'm trying to find a place to set up my studio and build up a local client base.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

When I was a little girl I was always creative. I loved mixing colors and playing with textures of fabrics and paints as a child. When I was about 8 years old I started sewing little projects and now that I am almost 21, I sew clothes (for myself, family and friends).

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

Everything starts with inspiration. Once I get inspired, things just kind of fall in place. When I settle my mind down on an idea I start sketching it out, technical drawing and then on a model. Sometimes I start with fabrics and then move on to colors or patterns.

6.Name your top five books

Road to Paradise by Paullina Simons
Emma's Secret by Barbara Taylor Bradford
Girl at Sea by Maureen Johnson
How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark

7. MUSIC: The Beatles, Marit Larsen, Owl City, Little Boots

8. WEBSITES: http://www.style.com http://lookbook.nu http://inhabitat.com http://www.treehugger.com

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?

Stay creative! Don't stop creating! It's important that one never stops being inspired by what happens around them. It takes time to get discovered on Etsy and one must not let few sales or low views discourage them.
If you think you have found your passion, stick with it! Stay positive and believe in yourself!

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

I don't have a favorite feature; however, I'd love to see more options and tools for editing the shop. Such as being able to link text instead of putting the entire url.
Also, I think that notifying a seller when he/she is featured in a treasury or on the front page would be a good idea.

11. How do you promote your work?

Since I only recently started my business, I can only afford to promote the easy way; FaceBook and blogging. I find that handing out business cards to anyone you come across is a good idea too.
And here is my blog : http://talifashion.blogspot.com/
And heres a link to my shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/taliepstein

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????

I would love to be an internationally known fashion designer with a happy little family

Friday Feature: Queen B Creations

2010-06-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

Need Personalized gifts and home decor? Then this next featured shop is the perfect place to get all those and more. At Queen B Creations, you'll find personalized glass items, car tags, ceramic items, even personalized keychains, just to name a few. Bridgett Lee is the proud owner of Queen B Creations - awesome creations which are well priced, I might add. She is also someone I recently met through chat. I hope you'll take a few minutes to read about her and her passions for creating quality items at great price.

My name is Bridgett Lee & I am 23 years old. I married my best friend on February 6, 2010. We make our home in a small town in Mississippi that is called Buckatunna. We also found our that we will be getting a new addition to our family this October.

When we found out that we were expecting, my husband and I decided that it would be better for me to leave my office job and be a stay at home mom. I want to be there for all the important moments in my child's life and I think this will give me a better shot at that. My aunt has always done personalized gifts and she was my inspiration to get my start. My mother in law bought me a Cricut Expression in March and that is where it all began.

Other than playing with my Cricut and preparing for the baby, I enjoy reading and listening to music. My love for reading is insane, so I can't really list my favorite books or authors. I pretty much love them all. Anything with words on it! =) I am pretty much the same as music goes. What can I say? I have vey diverse taste.

I am fairly new to all of this so I am not the one to come to for advice. I am still learning the ropes as far as how to set up my business and promote it. I have made a few new friends that are REALLY helpful. One day I hope to be the one that people are coming to for advice. =)

Here are her websites for those of you interested in her shop
http://www.etsy.com/shop/queenbcreations05
http://www.facebook.com/brholyfield#!/pages/Queen-B-Creations/126740417351565?ref=ts

Featured Seller: ellesbeads

2010-04-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is probably the best part of my week. I love featuring new shops and especially great shops. If you are looking for vintage-inspired jewelry with funky color combinations and eco-friendly accessories then you need to check out ellesbeads.
She has so many beautiful items to choose from in her shop: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and my most favorite- her beautiful, colorful fabric brooches. Her prices are unbeatable. Check out the interview I recently had with her. Enjoy!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)

I'm 22 years old and living in Raleigh, NC. My full-time job is as a paralegal and receptionist for a non-profit legal services firm. I'm into politics, animal rights, and LGBT issues. I enjoy playing Scrabble with my grandparents and chatting with friends online.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I work full time and visit family on the weekends. I'm also a member of a non-fiction book club and a political activism group.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

I have always been creative, but I decided to get into jewelry making as a positive way to help deal with my depression and anxiety. It helps keep my mind occupied and off of myself and lets me express my emotions and feelings in a fun, creative way. I started sewing because of my grandmother's influence. She's a huge part of my life and was a seamstress in her younger years. I use her antique Singer machine to sew my fabric brooches and barrettes.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

I love to create with recycled materials. I get a lot of my supplies from thrift stores and all of my fabrics are upcycled scraps. I use my grandmother's vintage buttons in a lot of my work as well. I try to work on new items almost every day, but I never force myself. It's always better for me to wait for inspiration before making a piece - otherwise I just end up taking it apart and reworking it later.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?

I have a pillow my grandmother made for me when I Was little. She gave one to me and each of my cousins. It has a print on the front and back of the Flinstones in their car. I've kept it for so long that it's almost impossible to use for sleeping on - all of the stuffing on the inside has separated into disatrous lumps and the fabric is seriously faded. I still love it though and don't ever see myself getting rid of it. It's a little piece of childhood I carry with me.

6.Name your top five books

The Innocent Man - John Grisham
The Pelican Brief - John Grisham
Godless - Dan Barker
In Defense of Food - Michael Pollan
Anything related to religion and religious studies

7. MUSIC:
I listen to soft and alternative rock and top 40/pop.

8. WEBSITES:
http://elles-beads.com
http://facebook.com/ellesbeads
http://twitter.com/ellexmarie
http://ellesbeads.blogspot.com
http://ellesbeads.etsy.com
http://zibbet.com/ellesbeads

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?

Be patient and be realistic. There is so much stock put into the Quit Your Day Job stories and I know I want to get to that point too, but realistically that doesn't happen overnight. Work on improving your product, your photos, your descriptions, and your on and offline prescence and resist the urge to compare yourself to others who seem to be selling more than you are. Don't give up and don't get discouraged!

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

I love the new Treasury East! It's probably my favorite thing on Etsy right now as I love making treasuries. I also really enjoy the forums and chat rooms because it's the primary way I've been able to meet other Etsy artisans and connect on a regular basis. The new improvements to listing are also nice. While I wish the listing process only took one or two pages to complete, I do really appreciate the ability to upload all of my pictures at once now.

As far as what I think should be added, I really don't understand why we do not have coupon codes. I think the ability to discount items without utilizing the PayPal refund would really improve the way we do business. I also think that a "global editor" similar to the one ArtFire currently employs would be a huge help. We could update our tags in groups instead of having to go back through each individual listing.

11. How do you promote your work?

I have a Facebook fan ("like") page and a Twitter account. I also write a craft and fashion related blog. I sell offline at craft shows and promote myself by leaving flyers and business cards at different local businesses. My family also helps to promote me by wearing my jewelry and asking around for new business opportunities for me.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????

I hope that in 10 years I'll still be crafting and will have found a way to make this my primary job. I also hope I'll be traveling, enjoying life, and starting a family.

Featured Seller: accessoryalamode

2010-04-12T11:13:00.000-07:00

If you love hand stamped jewelry, then you need to check out accessoryalamode.
Each and every item is hand cut, punched, hammered, buffed, filed, tumbled or oxidized, all hand wrought and/or hand stamped. This shop really do strive to give you quality items at a great price. My first ever hand stamped jewelry was given to me by my Mother. It was a heart locket with a french inscription or engraved letters that read, " ma fille, pour toujours" which means, my daughter for always. This heart locket was actually my Grandmother's and she gave it to my Mother and my Mother then gave it to me. It was something very special and very valuable to me. Like accessoryalamode, the items will be pass down for generations. Recently, I had a privilege of meeting its owner, Deborah McGovern, who is a total sweetheart. In this week's blog feature, you will get to know a little bit about her and how she got started with her shop so sit back, relax and enjoy this blog feature

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
Deborah McGovern, go by the name of Debbie, West Milford, Northern part of NJ, a blessed mom to 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls and wife to my best friend Jerry.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
Besides creating jewelry and being a mommy 24/7, I love to decorate. I am obsessed with home decor magazines, shows and blogs! I also am an excercise lover. I try to get at least 4 Jazzercise classes in per week.

3.What made me first want to become an artist?
that is an easy one. I have always loved art, it was my favorite class in school. I was always, always doodling on my notebooks and you would find me in a corner drawing many a times. My father was very crafty. He was a machinest by trade by a skilled woodcrafter and blacksmith. And my mom has been crocheting as long as I can remember. I have it in my blood I guess because I am that person that is whistling while working, as corny as it sounds..it is true.

With jewelry design I have fell in love with metalworking. I have adored my metalsmith classes. I continue to educate and keep updated with this craft.

4. MUSIC
As far as music, I love all kinds, but I am a classic rock girl at heart. However, you can find me going from listening to Taylor Swift to Led Zeppelin, and anywhere in between.

5. WEBSITES
Websites that I do frequent are indiepublic.com, craftopolis.com and craftcult.com

6.What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
Advice for new artists: don't give up...never, give up. If you love your art and this is what you really want to do, then work hard at it. The business does not magically come easy, you have to really work hard at it. Get your name out there as much as possible. Leave your business cards everywhere. Think positive.

7. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
Hmmm, my favorite features on Etsy? I love that you can connect with your facebook page now. Also, the forums are great. Sometimes they answer questions or just lend a friendly word of encouragement. What would I like to see? I would love to have more of a chance to get a treasury. It is a very hard task to do. I have been on Etsy for 4 years and have not achieved this yet. I am sure there is a skill to this, but I would like to have this become more easily available for all sellers at least once.

8. How do you promote your work?
I do have a website as well as the Etsy website. I promote, promote, and then promote some more. I have a twitter account, facebook, and then I pay for advertising at some indie sites as well as very popular blogs. Also, whereever I go, whether it be a wedding a party or a visit to the restroomm in a department store, I always leave behind a few biz cards. It can't hurt and you never know if someone might be interested in your items.
http://www.accessoryalamode.etsy.com
http://www.accessoryalamode.com

9. In ten years, where would you like to be????
As far as business, in ten years, I would really would have liked to learn the art of diamond setting and wax casting as well as the metalsmithing that I am currently involved in. I would like to see my jewelry in boutiques around the world. I would like to expand and have a bigger studio with employees. It sounds like a nice little dream :O)

So there you have it folks, an amazing artist. Go check out her awesome shop. Mum's Day is coming up so get something special for Mum :) Also, you can check her out on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/accessoryalamode

Monday Featured Seller : BlueEyedNightOwl

2010-03-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

I'm a total bookworm. I spend a lot of my free time reading, or looking for books that will inspire me or help me to become a better person. I also have owned many book marks which unfortunately have gotten lost or misplaced somewhere. Anyhow, the featured seller for today has awesome items in her shop that will make you enjoy reading even more. Laura totally rocks!! I mean, her items will blow you away. She makes these really pretty bookmarks- Owl Bookmarks I may add. Not only are they pretty, they're useful and very handy. They stay on your book. OMG, each of her items are super cute and so detailed. All made with lots of love and they will go great with your books. You wont ever ever have to buy any more boring book marks that can easily get lost in one of your books or even thrown away. lol. There are many more items besides bookmarks. Well, I guess you'll have to check out her Etsy shop to find out more great stuff but before you do, check out the awesome interview and get to know her better.

1.Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)

Hi, I’m Laura and I’m 18 years old. I was born and raised in Amsterdam (the Netherlands) and I love it here, although we could use a little more sunshine.
At the moment I’m going to art school part time which I’ll hopefully start full-time somewhere this fall

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?

That’s a tough question since that’s what I do most, whether it’s knitting or crocheting, sewing or painting. I have a blog and try to post on a daily basis. About things that inspire me: owls, art, music, movies, a few other things and some updates about what keeps me busy. You can find it here if you’d like:
http://blueeyednightowl.blogspot.com/

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

There’s nothing I like better than making something and I can’t remember a time in which I felt different about that. I’ve always been collecting little scraps and pieces and turning them into something. I remember the very first time I made something out of felt. My mom had bought one of those kits for two little puppets or dolls and we both made one, I’ve been hooked ever since. Later I’ve picked up other things like knitting and crochet. During last winter when I was ill, I crocheted a lot and that’s when I thought of opening a little shop online.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

Sometimes I already have an idea, it just clicks in my head and I go make it. Other times I see what materials I have and go from there, I get inspired by the colors or textures or prints and sometimes I just start and an idea forms while I’m working on it.
I like it when you can use it for something. For instance when I designed my bookmarks, I had an insight that something like that would come in handy and I started thinking about how I could construct it and make it look nice too.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?

When I was little I made a pendant with my dad out of mammoth ivory, it’s a little heart and I wear it with another heart on top of it. Seeing it always makes me remember that day.

6.Name your top five books

Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
Old Magic by Marianne Curley
the To-Do List by Mike Gayle, I have yet to finish the last chapter, but it was so good, funny and inspiring
Anything written by David Sedaris
Other than that I love books that take place in Japan or are written by Japanese authors (such as Murakami). And I have to admit I liked twilight.

Movies:
I’m a huge movie fanatic and watch anything from action to art house and from dance movies to animation. My mom’s a Samuel L. Jackson fan and I inherited that too, I’ve seen almost all of his movies.

Some of my absolute favorite movies are:
Wonderboys
Juno
V for Vendetta (I loved the graphic novel too)
Imagine Me & You
Disturbia

7. MUSIC:
Basically anything except house and metal.

India Arie
Tegan and Sara
CocoRosie
Otis Redding
and my favorite cd too put on while crafting is “the Island Moved in the Storm” by Matt Bauer

8. WEBSITES:

Lots of blogs (like MuchLove and Pugly Pixel)
imdb.com to fuel my movie obsession
omgpop.com to just relax and play a game
YouTube
arrestedmotion.com to hear all the latest Low-Brow art news facts

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?

Although I’m pretty new myself, there are some things I think are important.
To really like your own products and make sure you enjoy making new things so you can keep working even if you haven’t had a sale yet. I also love to giftwrap and decorate my packages. It’s fun to do and who doesn’t love to receive a nice looking package in the mail?
Everyone’s always saying how pictures are important and I think so too, so I try to get clear shots from different angles/uses/situations, but mostly on the same background.

Just try your very best at every aspect and I think that’s all you can do really.

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

The front page is something I love because you can find so many cool things on there in the handpicked items and the recently added ones.

A new feature? Maybe something that finds stores you might like if you enter some of your favorites. Or that would do that automatically.

11.How do you promote your work?

Through my blog. Although I talk about other stuff more than my shop. I do have a giveaway open till March 18th.

I started visiting the forum and chatrooms on Etsy, which is fun and even resulted in my very first sale.

Other than that I wear my own stuff a lot and keep business cards at hand.

12.In ten years, where would you like to be????

Hopefully have a great job teaching art as well as still making my own. I also hope to have a succesfull Etsy with lots of fun items.

One of my other dreams is to have my own place with a craft room.

Featured Seler of the Week: AllForJasmine

2010-02-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

About three weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet an amazing 11 year old girl who totally blew my mind away. In the beginning when I saw some of her work,I was really impressed because I also have a friend who does similar things with clay. Now, the friend who does that, she's about my age- you know- the old folks and I say, he, not bad of a job but when I saw Elisa's work- oh my... i was so impressed. I showed my friend Elisa's work and she too was impressed. Anyhow, more items were being posted from AllForJasmine and I kept thinking to myself, oh my, those lemon meringe pie sure does look good and then her Mom had mentioned that all the work are done by her 11 year daughter. My jaw nearly dropped to the floor. I was so impressed with her work. Someday, I would love to have a kid this gifted. Oh and how detailed each of her pieces were. Now, how many of you can remember being this creative at 11 year old or even this money conscious? Elisa and I both have a dog and mine is a golden retreiver and hers is Boston terrier. What truly touched my heart is that not only is Elisa very selfless- shes an amazing owner to her dog. You see, her dog have had medical problems for the last few years and all the proceeds from her Etsy sales goes to help pay for Jasmine's medical bills. I dont know any kid her age who would do this. She's a hero, in my book. Seriously... you have to get to know this kid. She really inspired me and I know that you will be inspired as well. Take a few minutes to get to know Elisa and read her interview. I guarantee it will be worth it :)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff
About myself. My name is Elisa and I'm 11 years old and in the 5th grade. I live with my mom, my cat, 2 dogs and my chinchilla in San Jose, CA. My 9 year old boston terrier, Jasmine, is the reason my mom helped me start my shop on etsy. I've had her since she was a baby and she's had some health problems over the last few years. I used to make things just because I love to and to give away to friends and family but Jasmine's medicines are expensive and I want to help out.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
What do I do aside from create? That's a tough question to answer. Creating things is my favorite thing to do. If I'm not working with my clay, I'm drawing, painting, cooking or baking. I have sketchbooks where I design clothes and jewelry.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
What made me want to be an artist. My mom had a lot to do with it. She's been drawing since I can remember. So I was always surrounded by art. She's taught me a lot and has always encouraged me with whatever I wanted to do.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
My creative process. With my clay, it's pretty straight forward. I think of what I want to make then go for it. Sometimes you really have to play around with the colors to get them just right so they look real. That's a lot of fun. It's great when it comes out right the first time.

5. Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.
My favorite books right now are Harry Potter books. I can't get enough of them. I haven't read any of the Twilight books. I'm not into Twilight.

6. Music.
With music my tastes are all over the place. I like the Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, Pink and even Luciano Pavarotti.

7. Websites.
I most like YouTube and Cartoon Network.com.

8. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
I'm new to etsy myself but I would tell anyone to just do the absolute best they can.

9. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
My favorite feature on etsy. I'm not allowed to go online by myself so I'm not familiar with everything about etsy but I do sit with my mom when she goes into the chat rooms. She says it's a great way to get my things seen and it's really exciting to see pictures of my creations show up on the screen and people say really nice things.

10. How do you promote your work?
Promoting my work. I've really only just started so the only promoting my mom's done so far is going into the chat rooms with my store so people can see my work.

11.In ten years, where would you like to be????
Where do I want to be in 10 years. In 10 years I'll be in college and studying art or maybe even design or culinary school. Either way I'm sure I'll continue making things for the rest of my life.

There you have it folks.. one truly amazing artist who really inspired me. I see a bright future ahead of her and I know that she will continue to inspire all of us through her work and her love for her pet Jasmine. I hope that you guys will be inspired and dont forget to check out her Etsy shop for more amazing products
http://www.etsy.com/shop/AllForJasmine

Friday Feature: justupthealley

2009-11-20T06:05:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it? There are only 35 more days till Christmas. Where did all the time go?
My featured Seller for today is Carissa from justupthealley. Her shop is absolutely perfect because Christmas is just right around the corner. Carissa makes these beautiful beaded ornaments for your Christmas trees or you can even just hang them in the window by itself. I met her in one of the chatrooms and we became good friends. I recently interviewed her and asked her where she got her inspiration for each one of her pieces. Check out the interview

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
My name is Carissa and I am originally from Southern California but now I am living in New Mexico. We moved here in 2008 because my husband was medically discharged from the Marines and wanted to move back home to be with his family he was away from for 5 years. We have been married a little over 2 and a half years, but do not have any children yet but we do have our dog that has been with us since 3 days after we got married. His name is Bubba, he is a Corgi, and he is almost 3 years old.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
Besides doing crafts I work a full time job as a Billing Administrator for a Home Health Care agency that provides non-medical in home health care for eldery and disabled people. I am also very big on family and spend a lot of time with my husband's family here in New Mexico and I call my family every day back in California.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
I first started doing crafts to fill up my free time with something productive. I started decoupaging after seeing something decoupaged and thougth it was absolutely gorgeous. I taught myself how to do it and started making gift boxes, trays, vases, etc. After we moved to New Mexico my husbands aunt showed me some beaded ornaments and I fell in love. Once again I taught myself how to do them and thought maybe I could share these with others and possibly make some extra money at it too and started my shop on Etsy.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
My creative process consists of seeing colors I like together and trying to bead an ornament in those color combonations. I use all seed beads on all of my ornaments. I used to use size 10 beads but fell in love with size 11 beads for my ornaments. They are very small but I think they make the ornaments look that much more special.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
My most cherished hand made possession would have to be my red, white, and blue flower beaded ornament. I am very fond of American Flag colors because of my husband being in the military but he also gave me the inspiration to make that ornament. He put himself into the color combonation and pattern and I will never forget that.

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.

I don't do a whole lot of reading but if I do read I love Tess Gerritson books. They are all murder mysteries and I love them. Favorite movies: Super Troopers (favorite in highschool), all the resident evil movies, all the underworld movies, and any comedies. Favorite songs: anything country, I grew up around it and love it all. Favorite websites: Hobby Lobby, Addicting Games, anything that teaches me how to make something new, MySpace (to keep in touch with friends from California), and Wells Fargo (I don't have to balance a check book lol).

7. MUSIC:
Country and Hip Hop, I know it's a wierd combonation.

8. WEBSITES:
listed above

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
If you are new to Etsy I would say jump into those chat rooms and check into Alchemy. The chat rooms you can promote your shop, meet people, and if you have any questions about anything you can ask anyone and they are so willing to help you out because they were new once too. Alchemy is great even if you get denied for what they are looking for at least people are seeing your shop and could come back later for when your items fit what they need.

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I love the chat rooms. I think they are great to promote and get your items out there and also meet new people who are usually some of the nicest people I have ever met. I wish the conversation portion of Etsy was designed a little different. It would be great if it was more like normal email, I think it would be much easier to use.

11. How do you promote your work?
I promote my work through family, friends, chat rooms, alchemy, and put up flyers around.

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
In ten years I want to be a stay at home mom who gets to do her passion of doing crafts all day and make a decenet living at it.

There you go folks. now you can go check out her shop and buy buy buy!! Start decorating those boring looking trees with her fabulous beaded ornaments.

Winners of my Blog Giveaway

2009-10-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the moment you all have been waiting for has arrived.
We have 4 lucky winners. Thank you to my two besties for doing the awesome video. You guys are the best

Here are the winners:

4th Place - Hello Kitty Ring- Schiersknit
3rd Place- Hello Kitty grab bag- PluckingPendants
2nd Place- Hello kitty clipboard- mjaksha
First place and Grand Prize winner of the Hello Kitty clock is peanutsandpajamas

Thank you everyone for participating in this blog giveaway. had lots of fun. I'll be doing more giveaway soon so always check back. Have a great day.

Blog Giveaway Has ended

2009-10-20T06:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered- blogged about the giveaway.... twiterred... talked about it on fb, for following me on both my blog and fanpage. I really appreciate the support. I will be announcing the lucky winners very soon... and yes I said winners because I have 4 awesome prizes to give out. Im stoked.
Thanks again everyone. Have a Fabulous week!

My first blog Giveaway

2009-09-29T06:23:00.000-07:00

So guess what guys???? My shop finally hit 300 sales and you know what that means????
Giveaway. Giveaway. Thats right. I've been wanting to do this forever but I've been so busy with custom orders and what not, so I apologize. I can promise you, it was worth the wait. I'm so excited to be doing this giveaway. I have 4 prizes to give out. If you guys are Hello Kitty fan, like myself, you will love the prizes, at least i hope so.

1st Prize- Grand Prize( hello kitty clock)

2nd Prize- Hello Kitty Clipboard made by yours truly- totally one of a kind

3rd Prize- Gift Pack which includes the following: 3 lip balms, 2 pencils, Notepad)

4th Prize- Hello Kitty ring made by Ann from Destinationdesign (http://destinationdesign.etsy.com/)

Heres how to Enter: There are a few ways you can enter

1. You can leave comments for this blog. I want the comments to reach over 100 before i start the drawing but it doesnt have to.
2. Follow my blog! If you did already, just leave me comments so I can check.
3. You can also go to my shop( leakhena.etsy.com), add my shop to favorite, if you haven't already, pick out an item and then tell me why you like that item
4. Fan me on Facebook! (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Leakhena/103022467083)
5. Blog about this giveaway on your facebook, myspace or twitter! Leave a comment when you do with the link.
6. Last but not least- another way to enter is to Buy from my shop. Thats right. Those of you that buy from my shop, I will automatically put your name into the drawing- you get 5 chances..
This is my very first giveaway so bear with me.

The deadline to enter this giveaway is October 19 at 11:59 PM. No more entries after that! I will post the winners October 26. Thank you everyone and have fun while you're at this..

Featured Seller: whimsygirlboutique

2009-09-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Whenever I'm not too busy creating or listing new items, I like to go chat and meet other sellers. One day, in the Promote Chat Room I met the wonderful Kathryn. What a lovely person. I was really captivated by all the beautiful charm bracelets in her shop, lampworks and all. Although she is fairly new to the Etsy community, she's not new to creating and making one of a kind pieces of extraordinary jewelry. In fact, she has been making and selling jewelry for many years. Read this interview and lets get to know this awesome seller better, shall we??

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
My name is Kathryn, I have three beautiful children...15 year old boy, 11 year old girl and a 3 year old boy...lol...i know..oops! My oldest son has struggled with a learning disability since birth. He has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). From birth to about age 12 he was a very big challenge. We opted not to put him on medication after MUCH research and so tried alternate methods of therapy including a very successful treatment called Biofeedback/Neurotherapy. Raising him was very challenging but also very rewarding as we have been able to see him improve immensely in the last 5 years. Today he is happy and well adjusted!

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
My husband and I own a company together..we have since the year we married..17 years ago. I run a lot of the time, as I have my father and mother living in my basement suite and my father is in very poor health, so I drive him to all his doctor's appt's as my mom doesn't drive. Pretty boring, right? lol

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
Five years ago I owned my own successful business selling fashion jewelry to boutiques...when I became pregnant with our 3 baby I became very ill and had to give up time that I had previously had to devote to growing my business. I sold the company and found myself spending more time at home due to my poor health. One day I was surfing the web and came across a website that sold beads and fell in love with the selection of glass and crystal I saw. I ordered a few from them and from there I taught myself how to wire wrap and string and crimp..you name it!

4.Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
My creative process is quite simple...I see sparkly things and I want to run my hands through them...I mostly create pieces that I want to wear. I love the charm bracelets that I am making right now...each one is so unique in that I never follow a previous piece. I just gather up a bunch of lampwork beads and crystals and findings and start putting them all together to see what I come up with.

5.What handmade possession do you most cherish?
I have always appreciated things that are handmade for me, I now know how much work goes into handmade items. I have a very talented and artistic family so it is hard to pick just one. I would probably have to say that I have three paintings that my uncle painted for me that are of mexican scenes. My husband and I love Mexico and so do our children...I think I have around 60 pieces of handmade pottery that I cherish as well as the pictures my uncle painted that go so nicely in my Mexican style family room!

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.

Top five books...Dan Brown (The Da Vinci Code), (Angels & Demons) also, Clive Cussler, writes adventure novels and I always enjoy his books too.
Top five books...Dan Brown (The Da Vinci Code), (Angels & Demons) also, Clive Cussler, writes adventure novels and I always enjoy his books too. Movies that are my faves are any Chic Flicks (embarassing but true)! Music for me is very diverse. I love Pink, Duran Duran, Toby Keith, Maroon 5, Chris Isaak. I told you my music was very diverse!!!!!! LOL Websites, I don't really have any faves other than Ebay and Etsy.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
Don't overprice...but be sure to properly value your items. You should not give up...sooner or later you will get a sale!

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I love the fact that Etsy is so reasonable to list your items. You don't have to take out a small loan to list your items! I would like to be able to use symbols in the titles of items.

11.How do you promote your work?
Etsy, craft fairs, school, word of mouth, gifts to friends for free advertising. LOL

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
I would like to see my husband and I semi retired and spending a few months of the year in Mexico together. I would also love to be very well known for my charm bracelets, and making a nice income off them..more than the income though it would just be nice knowing that when I create one, it is an order from someone who will love it and pass it down to her daughter like I did with my first charm bracelet.

Featured Seller : Flauxers

2009-09-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

As I've said before, Etsy has a vast array of talented people. Everyday, I get the opportunity to meet extraordinary people who definitely inspired me to become better. I really am in awe of the gifts/talents they have truly been blessed with, to share with the world. This next seller in particular, when I saw her shop I was totally reminded of my Mother who loved sunflowers and actually grows them in her backyard. Anyway, I wanted to feature Flauxers shop on this blog because I wanted to show everyone how talented she really is.
I met Tanya in one the chat rooms on Etsy. She was one of my customers but we became good friends. She has such great qualities about her that stands out- very likeable and friendly and not to mention, a great listener.
Her shop is amazing and you'll see why. What an unbelievable artist !! She makes beautiful flower arrangements, flower earrings and magnets. YOu name it. This girl can do it all. You could tell how much love and soul went into each of her projects. Hmm, I wish I had known her when I was in high school. My corsage would have been perfect and I would still have it today.
Anyway, here's my interview with this awesome person. Make sure you guys check out her shop ok??

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
I'm Tanya Hofford from State College, PA. My husband (Rob) and I have been married for a little over 3 years, and just bought our first home. I'm a happy 27 year old, housewife, entrepreneur and crafter.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I love spending time with friends, online and offline, reading, watching television, and volunteering for the Walk MS in State College.

3.What first made you want to become an artist?
I've always had a passion for flowers and I created hair accessories/crafted with my Mom and Grandma as a child. While in college, I worked part-time for a holiday season in a Floral Shop. This experience made me want to own my own shop, and I always planned on doing so. Then when Rob and I got married, I did the floral arrangements for our wedding, solidifying my desire. Because flowers wilt and don't last long, I came up with the idea to work with artificial flowers. We relocated into the State College area (from Northern PA) about 2 years ago. When this happened, I quit my job and began focusing on Flauxers.

4.Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
I generally find a specific flower I like from my wholesaler or at a local craft store and the ideas just flow from there. Often I get my best new product ideas when I'm relaxing with Rob at night watching television. I do most of my work during the day, trying to not have the table/house too cluttered with my supplies at night.

5.What handmade possession do you most cherish?
My Grandfather made a cedar chest for us, and gave it to us at our wedding. It's absolutely beautiful and sits in my living room, full of blankets.

6. Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.
My all time favorite author is Neil Gaiman, but also enjoy James Patterson and Kate White. Neil's books are Fantasy/Science Fiction and the others are Mysteries, where crimes are solved by the main character - much like CSI or NCIS.
In my opinion, the VERY best movie ever created was 'The Princess Bride,' I also enjoy the 'Back to the Future' trilogy and the 'Bourne' trilogy. I enjoy movies of different genres - including Comedy (ie: Tommy Boy, Anchorman), suspense/thriller (ie: The Sixth Sense, Secret Window), and pretty much anything that's not too scary'.
Music: ANYTHING BY BILLY JOEL! I'm quite possibly his youngest fan, but I can't help it. I absolutely love his music, and the CD in my CD player of my car is generally one of his. I also really enjoy Barenaked Ladies, Jonathan Coulton, and 80s to 90s rock.
Websites: When not on etsy, I generally spend my time updating my website (www.flauxers.com), on facebook (www.facebook.com/Flauxers), twitter (www.twitter.com/flauxers), myspace (www.myspace.com/flauxers) or reading blogs. The geek in me really enjoys ThinkGeek (www.thinkgeek.com) and I LOVE youtube!

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
Don't get discouraged if your items are immediately selling. You'll have good days/weeks and some not so good days/weeks. Also, tell everyone you know about your shop. This will not only generate traffic to your shop, but hopefully they'll mention it to a friend, who mentions it to one of their friends, etc. Also, I've found a lot of support and friendship from Etsy Chats. I highly recommend going there to get some exposure. Anyone that goes to your shop could be a potential customer.

10.What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I love the chat and forum sections of Etsy. They not only allow you to connect with new people, they give your shop great exposure, and allow you to ask questions and learn tricks on how to make your shop better. I would however, love to see a way to scroll in the chat to see previous posts. Often times, I'll be chatting/promoting my shop or even asking/answering questions, but I'll miss a response from someone while I'm browsing a shop, or if something caught my attention here.

11.How do you promote your work?
I promote via twitter, facebook, myspace, my blog, and I send newsletters out to people that have signed up to get them from my webpage. I also have a window vinyl on the back of my car, directing people to my website. Also, I love using 'word of mouth.' For example, my Mom works in a school, and I have given her an arrangement (that she has on her desk), and a couple hair accessories to wear, in an attempt at getting more interest in my shop. She also has several of my business cards that she gives out at times. I've also left business cards at a restaurant with my tip.

12.In ten years, where would you like to be????
I'd like to have a family, and still be working with my shop. Possibly have a store front and an employee or two.

There you have it folks...awesome person isnt she??? Now go shop shop shop and get something lovely that will last you a lifetime.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30877658

How do you show love?

2009-09-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

I was listening to a sermon on AudioVerse today.

There are 5 types of ways people show their love:

1. Service - Doing things for others. Cooking, cleaning, taking out trash, etc.
2. Giving - Purchasing and giving gifts.
3. Touch - Always giving love by hugs, kisses and touching.
4. Verbal - Always giving verbal praise, acknowledgement, and saying, "I love you."
5. Time - Shows love by spending quality time with the loved one.

This can apply to any relationship, whether professional or personal.
How do you show your love?

Nothing pisses me off more than this.....

2009-09-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Someone once told me, " Imitation is the highest form of flattery, but clones kind of get it wrong because we are promoting individuality and being proud of being ourself." I get it but quite frankly I'm not flattered. Nothing pisses me off more than when someone steals my ideas, concepts, designs and make it their own. They walk around and pretend like nothing is wrong. Now, Im all about showing admiration for other peoples work. Don't get me wrong. That's fine. Admire all you want but don't dare steal their ideas. Perhaps, its my fault to begin with.
Maybe I am way too nice and people take that as a sign of weakness. I am not weak by any means. Im just naturally nice- too nice at times. I cant help it. My Mother brought me up this way. Perhaps, I need to work on being more assertive when it comes to dealing with certain things and people. I need to learn not to be so trusting, not that i have issues with Trust. I'm talking about trust in the business world.

I've learned from my own experiences that trust is not something you give away freely. You have to be slow and sparing when you give trust in the worlds of business or even in your personal life. All of these have elements in common in their organizational structures and interactions. Trust has to be earned, and it has to be earned slowly. Maybe I am just "thinking" with emotions. And in the business world maybe we have to learn to not let emotions interfere.

Sigh.. enough of me venting and rambling. I wanna know what you guys think.. I'm I over reacting? Please Id like to hear your input. ANy ideas??? suggestions???

Happy September

2009-09-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its already September. Where did the year go?? SO I realized that it has been forever since I posted any new blogs. I've been kind of busy with a few projects here and there. Working on a giveaway for you guys. I cant wait to share. I'm almost done. I'd say, 80%.
I do have something very exciting to share with you right now though. My Treasure chest necklace made it to the front page of Etsy. Woohoo, I'm excited. Just thought I'd share the excitement with all of you. Thank you to MiaRosina for featuring my piece.

Featured Seller this week: littlemissfamous

2009-08-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

My featured seller for this week is the wonderful, Brittney from Littlemissfamous whom I have met in one of chat rooms. Yes, folks, I seem to have met a lot of wonderful sellers in those chats. I think its great that Etsy has these features where you can connect with other artists and what not.
Brittney is a wonderful person- I'd say a renaissance woman because she has many talents. Read this interview and you'll find out why. I want to tell all of you about her shop, which I love. She sells beautiful vintage pieces that you cant find anywhere else. I know because I have tried looking for some of them here in California and they are no where to be found hehe. Each pieces will look wonderful in your home. Here's my interview with this awesome seller. Enjoy!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal) My name is Brittney Woods-Chaney. I mostly go by Britt, and LittleMissFamous. I'm from Mountain View, Arkansas (Folk Music Capitol of the World, seriously.) I am a 24 year old housewifey, college student, party DJ, and licensed real estate agent (currently inactive in real estate)!

2. When did you open your shop, and what made you do it?

I first opened my shop at the end of April 2009. I did it because I'm a newly wed, college student, and a real estate agent trying to make ends meet with the current economy and mine and my husbands job layoffs. And I've always had a serious passion for vintage. There is just something extra special, extra character to something that has been previously loved from not only another era, but another person, or many people.

3. What has been the best, and worst, thing about having you Etsy shop?

The best thing about my Etsy shop is that it has helped me regain confidence in my ability to be successful at something. I don't have a million sales, I don't even have 50 -but I have something to share with everyone out there and they seem to enjoy it.

4. If you could go back to the beginning, what would you have done differently?

I don't think I would have done anything differently with my Etsy. It has been a great lesson of dedication, and of trial and error.

5. What’s been the best, and worst, form of advertisement you’ve used?

The best advertisement for ANYTHING is always word of mouth. The second, is a happy customer. After that I think just actually talking to people, in person, on the street, in the Etsy chat rooms, and on the forums really makes a difference. It makes it personal. People these days want to buy from another real person, not a large company. I also think that having a Facebook fan page helps. I've not really been around long enough to find anything that just doesn't work at all. I really believe any advertisement is good as long as its getting your name out there. Be brave, try anything.

6. Any tips for the Etsy newbies, anxiously awaiting their first sale or still toying with the idea of opening shop?

The best advice I could give to anyone, doing anything that they want to be successful in is that "you will only get out what you put in." Don't get discouraged. If you are dedicated to something- be fully dedicated. Do whatever it takes. If you don't have any sales, find out why. Would you buy from you? What about others? What do they think you could do to improve? Ask around. Etsians are not shy. The chatters or the people in the forums will tell you what they think. Just be careful to take everything with a grain of salt. With good advice will always comes some bad. When I first started I was told my banner was crap. Now its my trademark. Be brave, take risks. Try it all- Just don't loose what makes your shop yours.

7. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I really enjoy the facebook feature, and I LOVE the virtual labs! I think there should be more virtual labs for sure!

8. In ten years, where would you like to be?
This is the hardest question of all. I'm still working on my five year plan! In ten years I really hope to be very well rounded, with a degree, a real estate broker license, hopefully a house and a kid! :)

Featured Seller of the Week: Wendance

2009-07-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

My featured seller for this week is the wonderful, Wendy. She is fairly new to the Etsy community but definitely not new to crafting. I must say, I was very impressed with her shop. Her card are amazing. Definitely one of a kind and you wont find anywhere else. Who needs Hallmark when we have Wendy. Heres my interview with this Amazing artist.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
Hi!! My name is Wendy. I live in the capital of Canada - Ottawa, Ontario. I am married to a very supportive husband and we have a dependent cat, named Cuddles. I love to scrapbook, make cards and dabble in photography. I am also doing some teaching of card making and scrapbooking techniques.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
By day, I am a teacher - a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing. I have taught in the classroom for many years, mostly junior high. Now, I work one-on-one with students.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
I have been making and creating things for as long as I can remember. I have been selling my cards to friends and family for the last few years to *support my habit* of scrapbooking :) I decided to open up my Etsy shop just over a week ago!

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
During the summer, I try to play in my scraproom everyday. During the school year - I try to work in some creative time as much as possible. I spend a lot of time on line and shopping for supplies, too!! When we travel, I love to go into new scrapbook stores and see all the different supplies and techniques.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
Probably my honeymoon album (volume 1&2) that I have just finished - from Greece!

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.

like a lot of different books - by Luanne Rice, Eileen Goudge, Jodi Picoult, Janet Evanovich - just to name a few

7. MUSIC: I like the 80s!!

8. WEBSITES: www.scrapshotz.com; www.thepaperpassion.com; facebook; www.stampshoppe.ca and my blog - www.wendancedesigns1.blogspot.com

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
Join the chats!!! You get to meet great people and see what other amazing things, fellow artisans have for sale!

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I really like the 5 minute feature seller (in the chat area). I am still learning my way around Etsy, so I'm not sure what else I would like to see.

11. How do you promote your work?
I have my facebook page, my blog and word of mouth - I am looking for other ways to promote my store for sure!!

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
Probably, similar to what I am doing now. Still teaching during the school year with more teaching of scrapbook and card making classes, in my spare time!

Thank you wendy for allowing me to feature your shop on here. best wishes to your shop. Everyone check out her shop. Go to wendance.etsy.com

Featured Seller of the Week: ♥ Destination Design ♥

2009-07-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

My featured seller for this week is my wonderful friend Ann, from DestinationDesign.

Etsy
Buy Handmade
DestinationDesign

I met lovely Ann on Etsy. She was one of my customers but we later became great friends. I know that I can count on Ann for anything. She's a great listener and makes me laugh all the time. She is also a wonderful Mum to her daughter Lily. I am amazed at how well she has raised this little one. Anyhow, her shop is amazing. She makes these cute creatures out of clay. I know, because I have a few of her products and they are totally out of this world. In fact, I previously purchased some stuff that supposedly was a present for my niece. However,I decided to keep them cause they were so cute. No worries, I bought my niece something else instead. LOL.
Ann is multi-talented. Her new updated shop are filled with kawaii items, for those of you who loves kawaii like moi. She puts a lot of heart and soul into each of her products to ensure that each of her customers are satisfied and let me tell you, I am one Happy Customer. When you buy from Ann, she sends you the cutest packages and Im not kidding. I saved them all. Hey, I'm Asian. We recycle everything. But yes, in all seriousness, Ann has a wonderful shop and I would like you to go check it out....and start filling up those shopping carts, but before you do.. read my interview with this cool chick. Enjoy!!!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - name, location, affiliations, personal stuff ( well, not too personal)
My name is Ann Liu. I was born in the Bay Area of California, currently living in Arlington Texas. I live with my parents, grandmother and little sister. I also have a ten month old daughter, Lilly. I'm still fresh out of high school, but I'm definitely ready to go to college soon (major undecided). Until then, I'm just a stay-at-home mom trying to find a way to get some money in. That's when I came across Etsy.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I'm a mom, watching my daughter grow before my eyes. Other than being a mommy, I'm just a regular teenager: hang with friends, play video games, play with my violin and piano... List goes on and on.

3. What first made you want to become an artist?
When I was four or five, my mother put me up to piano lessons, thinking it would calm down my active side. In 4th grade, I started playing the violin in my school orchestra until 12th grade (fun fact: I had the same orchestra teacher throughout my years of orchestra). That's the music side. Painting wise, my mom put me into a Chinese art class with a close friend, which I quit before high school. As a side hobby, I love to craft. Anything that gets my hand working, I love. So I'm just pretty much doing what I love.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
I get my inspiration just be browsing the web, especially on the Japanese fashion/culture since they are fast pace. But whenever I get my own idea, I quickly write it down and start working on it by the next day. Materials are all plastic, all from Japan. I also work with clay, which is a fun medium for me. I also love to deco-den ("decorating phone") because you can just go crazy and creative. Although, deco-den is not limited to just cell phones, but cameras, boxes, electronics, etc. But it takes a long time.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?
Before my dad was born, my grandmother made this blanket, which he passed it down to my when I was born. Then it was passed down to my little sister. She is thirteen and still have the blanket. It was suppose to go to my daughter. I'm still waiting for that day when my sis gives it up so I can snuggle with that blanket in secret.

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.

BOOKS: Harry Potter series, Confessions of a Shopaholic, PostSecret, Of Mice and Men, Taming of the Shrew.

7. MUSIC: Muse, Lady Gaga, Kate Voegele, Coldplay, and Super Junior

8. WEBSITES: Facebook, Strapya-World, Myspace, Blogger, and FanFiction.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
HAVE PATIENCE AND DON'T GIVE UP HOPE. I can't stress this enough. It's not the moment you open the shop you'll have a sale! Give it time. My first sale came around my first month here on etsy. And don't give up when someone doesn't buy from your shop, THEY WILL. You just have to promote and put yourself out there.

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?
I love the chat rooms. It's great to interact with buyers and sellers and just make friends! It's also great because you get lots of feedback and sometimes even sales! I would maybe like to see a feature where you can tell if someone read your convos or not, especially if it's about working on a sale and whatnot.

11. How do you promote your work?
I go to chatrooms to promote, and sometimes on the Promotions forum. I even have a blog (http://destinationdesigndaily.blogspot.com/), myspace page (http://myspace.com/destination_design/), and a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Arlington-TX/Destination-Design/). Oh, and I started to Twitter
(http://twitter.com/ambiguousangel), I still don't get it tho!

12. In ten years, where would you like to be????
Married, happy and MAYBE have another kid... Also, maybe the hubby will have a great income source so I can be a housewife. It's quite nice. But as always, doing what I love, crafting!

Thank you Ann for this being my Featured Seller for the week. I wish you lots of love and lots of sales for your Shop. Go DestinationDesign.

Yay, Im in Treasury and also a Blog.

2009-07-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

My owl necklace has been featured in a treasury. Thanks to AdornShoppe for including me in her wonderful treasury. Here it is

You can check out her shop too on etsy.
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7158304

Also, a wonderful seller stacykathryn has also included me in her wonderful blog. Go the website and see. www.stacykathryn.com/wp
My Sandal necklace was one of the items featured in her wishlist section.

Thank you both for feauturing my pieces.

Featured Seller of the Week : jniedermeier

2009-07-14T11:43:00.001-07:00

jniedermeier** jniedermeier**

As I've said before, Etsy has a vast array of talented people. Everyday, I get the opportunity to meet extraordinary artists who definitely inspired me to become better. I really am in awe of the gifts/talents they have truly been blessed with, to share with the world. This next artist in particular, and I want to feature his shop on this blog because I wanted to show everyone how talented he really is.
I met Josh in one the chat rooms on Etsy. I was surprised he showed up because majority of the sellers the room were women. Now, I think we need more Men Sellers on Etsy. Do I neeed to go on strike??? Anyway, all jokes aside, I was really inspired by the fact that Josh had dedicated his life and his time to the United States military. I have a few friends who served and are still serving, both Marines and Army.
His shop is amazing. What an unbelievable painter !! He has great abstract pieces that are handled with interesting colors and a nice sense of atmosphere. He was able to capture each pieces so beautifully.You could tell how much love and soul went into each pieces as well.

Here's my interview with this awesome artist. Enjoy !

1. Tell us a bit about yourself name, location, affiliations, personal stuff.

My name is Joshua Niedermeier. I am currently pursuing a degree in Fine Arts at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago, Illinois. Before this, I served in the Marine Corps for a little over 4 years as an Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I am currently pursuing a degree in Fine Arts at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago, Illinois. In my spare time I love to read, write, and listen to music

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

Having always a love for art, as I got older I began to take it more seriously and really dedicate some time to creating more meaningful pieces

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
The majority of my work is done by using acrylic paint on canvas but I am not, by any means, limiting myself to just that. I also enjoy graphite and charcoal for my drawings. Over the years I have also been using a simple magnifying glass and the heat and light from the sun to do wood burnings.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?

When I was on my first tour in Iraq I bought two beautiful paintings done by an artist in Baghdad. They are portraits of women done on a felt like cloth. These are my most treasured handmade possessions; they inspire me every time I look at them.

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.
In my spare time I love to read, write, and listen to music. Some of my favorite books are 1984, Slaughterhouse V, Of Mice and Men, One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, and Breakfast of Champions

7. MUSIC:

As far as music goes, I listen to many different genres but my favorite musicians are: Stevie Ray Vaughn, B.B. King, Louis Armstrong, Steve Vai, and Eddie Van Halen

8. WEBSITES:

When I am not reading or working on art I am either outdoors or on Facebook. Yes, I said Facebook. It has been a great way for me to keep in touch with old and new friends and most importantly my family.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?

For those of you who are new to Etsy, my advice is to join a group and/or participate in the chat rooms and meet new people. If you do not sell any work do not be discouraged, take every chance you can to build a network of business partners and friends. Chatting with other people who have the same interests as I has been my favorite thing about Etsy.

10. How do you promote your work?

This past year, I have been promoting my work mostly by word of mouth. However, by using Etsy, Facebook, and my personal website I have really been able to make connections with people on a far greater level.

Much of my work can be viewed at www.sunburntartistries.com.

11. In ten years, where would you like to be...
My ultimate goal is to one day have my own gallery in Chicago where I can feature up and coming artists of all ages and backgrounds.

So I urge everyone to go check out his Etsy shop as well as his website. Start decorating those dull looking walls at home with his masterpieces. Yep, I've said it, folks.. His Masterpieces. This wont be the last time you'll be hearing about this artist. Thank you Josh for your time and it was a pleasure meeting you. Best of luck with your shop. Go jniedermeier !!!!

About my JOb......

2009-07-12T22:17:00.000-07:00

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Just a few updates on my latest job interview.... So the dreaded email that I got over the weekend...... It looks like I didnt get the job that I have been hoping to get. Somehow, I didn't feel too bad. I thought I would take it pretty hard but I did ok. So instead of staying at home and moping around, I decided to enjoy the beautiful sunny day out at the beach. Here are a few pictures I took from the mini trip.

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Salmon Beach is absolutely gorgeous especially in the summertime. One of my favorite places to go. I usually take my Cotton there. For those of you who don't know, Cotton is my golden retriever. Nope, this time I went alone. I needed that time to think and to figure out what to do next and usually I would come up with a solutions but this time...... NOTHING. Absolutely nothing. My mind went blank. I did get a nice exercise out of it though and I did meet this nice couple. By the way, they said, I reminded them of their daughter because of my long hair and pink sweater??? Did they say pink sweater?? That doesnt say much doest it?? I wear pink all the time. hmm, I've heard that before. ANyhow, all in all, a beautiful day out at the beach. I totally forgot about everything else. I just felt peace and calmness.

At the end of the day, I've realized that, no matter where I am in my life, no matter what the situation, I am never alone. God is always there. He always provide. I know that when one door closes, another one opens. At least, thats always been my hope. I really love this quote by Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. He said,

"Everything that is done in the world is done by hope" - Doctor Martin Luther King Jr.

Good bye to the King of Pop

2009-07-12T00:11:00.001-07:00

I still can't believe that Michael Jackson is really gone. I grew up listening to his music. In fact, I remembered when I heard , "Beat It " for the first time it was truly amazing! I loved it!!! I wanted to learn all his dance moves. Never saw anything quite like it. That was just one of the many songs I enjoyed. Man in the mirror, Thriller, just to name a few. Let me say that I don't consider him the King of Pop at all. He was more than that. He was truly amazing and the world seemed to have overlooked all the good that he did. He gave so much, not just financially but time wise- to the world, to the ones that needed his help- the poor, the brokenhearted. What a great Samaritan and a great humanitarian.
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Michael Jackson has done more good to the world but the world have portrayed him in the different light. My heart goes out to his whole family but most importantly to his kids. To the world, Michael was an icon. We all loved and adored him and his music. We lost an icon but his kids lost their father. I think thats something that's really hard for me to imagine. Personally, I am extremely close to my Father. My Father is my mentor and also one of my biggest heroes. I cant imagine what I would do if I lost him . It would be wayyy too painful for me. My psyche wont let me go there... Anyway, my prayers are with MJ's kids as they cope with this loss and I pray that they find comfort and are able to heal. Time heals all wounds.... is what I've learned in life.

There are two bible verses that I really loved. The first is found in Psalm 34: 18 and second is found in Lamentations 3:22-26

Psalm 34:18 says, " The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those who are crushed in spirit."

Lamentations 3:22-26 says, "For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion according to the greatness of his unfailing love."

Michael Jackson you will be truly missed. Your music will live on forever in our hearts

My own Featured Seller- Shoebox21

2009-07-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Shoebox21 ** Shoebox21 **Shoebox21 **

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Since joining Etsy, I have met extraordinary people who have truly inspired me to become a better artist and crafter. Etsy has vast array of talented people. I am in awe of the gifts and talents that God has blessed these people with. One Etsy artist in particular and I want to feature her shop here on my blog because I really wanted to show everyone how talented she really is. In fact, each week, here on my blog I want to feature different artists and their awesome work.
I met Katherine in one of the chatrooms on Etsy. Let me tell you, what a wonderful Etsian!
Her shop is amazing. Her cards are all each hand drawn so you could tell how much love and soul went into each of her items. Watch out Hallmark, cause here comes Shoebox21.

*Heres my interview with this awesome artist. Enjoy!*

1. Tell us a bit about yourself name, location, affiliations, personal stuff.

I'm Katherine, and I currently reside in sunny (and way too warm) Arizona! I'm originally from the Chicago suburbs but I recently moved down here to attend Arizona State University with my major being interior design.

2.Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Although creating one of a kind items is what I love to do best, my other hobbies include caring for animals, interior design, graphic design, and figure skating! :)

3. What first made you want to become an artist?

As a child, my parents were extremely supportive of my artistic endeavours and enrolled me in art classes at a young age. They also allowed me to "decorate" and redesign many rooms throughout the house; this, I believe, it what sparked my interest in all things artsy.

4. Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

I tend to be an extremely messy person when I work - as soon as inspiration strikes, I pull out all of my supplies and continue working without stopping to rest (and clean up, for that matter...). My favorite medium is paper. I find it amazing how one can transform a plain white sheet into a million different things! Although I currently only create cards, I hope to expand my line of work to include items such as sewn pouches, pins, soap, etc.

5. What handmade possession do you most cherish?

My mom always enjoyed dabbling in arts and crafts as well and when I was a baby, she created a cute little baby blanket for me. This is by far my favorite possession. Over 20 years later and I still have it laying on my bed! :)

6.Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites besides Etsy.
I'm a big fan of the Harry Potter series and I also enjoy classics such as 1984 and Crime and Punishment.

7. MUSIC:
I have a wide range of musical tastes and enjoy some classical pieces as well as alternative/rock. Some of my favorite bands include Brand New and MeWithoutYou.

8. WEBSITES:
Etsy is my favorite! Ebay is a close second. :) You'll always find me on one or the other.

9. What advice would you give to artists who are new to Etsy?
I'm relatively new to Etsy as well, and the greatest advice that I can muster up is just to "go for it". I was always hesitant about selling my work online, but with enough dedication and pride in your products, you'll be successful within no time! :)

10. What are your favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

11. How do you promote your work?

I have a website: http://www.shoebox21.org
And a twitter: http://twitter.com/shoebox21

12. In ten years I'd like to be...
In ten years I would love to see myself as an experienced interior designer who also continues to dabble in paper crafts and graphic design.

So I urge everyone to go check out her etsy shop and start stocking on lovely homemade cards, made with lots of love. Thank you for your time and it was a pleasure meeting you Katherine and best of luck with your shop. Go Shoebox21!!!!!!!!!!!!

Busy Beeee

2009-07-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

I have been busy moving the last couple of weeks and thus, the lack of blog posts so I apologize.
I'm still settling in. I didnt realize moving would be so draining and time consuming. I spent almost4 whole days cleaning out the old apartment, in hopes of getting some money back for the deposit I had put in previous. Crossing my fingers- hoping I will get some back. Well, heck, I am 100% sure I'll get some money back. I left the old place in such great condition and I was a good tenant so we'll wait and see i suppose.
So anyhow, I'm still unpacking at the new place but I am having a lot of fun while doing it. I hope everyone had a nice 4th of July. No bbq or house party for me this year but next year for sure. I spent my 4th of July painting diffrent areas of my house,which wasn't so bad because the weather was perfect. I will upload pics later for you all to see. God bless everyone !!!

RIP Farrah Fawcett

2009-06-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

I was so sad to hear that Farrah Fawcett passed away earlier this morning. I have always been a huge fan of Charlies Angels. My most favorite character from there of course would have to be Farrah. She had such amazing hair and perfect teeth. She was such a strong person, a true fighter, great actress, awesome icon, and will truly be missed. Rest in peace dear Farrah.

Happy Fathers Day

2009-06-21T10:14:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful sunny Sunday. Its also Father's Day so i wanted to wish all the wonderful Dads out there a nice fathers day.

Happy Fathers Day!

Happy Tuesday!

2009-06-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Its been awhile since i posted. I've been quite busy training for the upcoming marathon and at the same time, keeping up with my Etsy shop. So much going on in the world. I have a few things on my prayer list that I want to mention.

1. Please pray for my brother who has been in the hospital. He was in a terrible car accident. Got hit by a drunk driver. Luckily, he is fine, stable condition. However, the doctors said he has no recollection of what happened or who my Mum and Dad is. Please pray that he will recover and get his memory back. I still dont understand why people drink and drive. Not only do they hurt themselves but they hurt those around them. Im glad my brother is ok.

2. Please pray for Air France Flight 447- those who lost their lives- for their families and loved ones as they are coping with these great losses.

3. Please pray for Laura Ling and Euna Lee- 2 American journalists who were each handed 12 years in Prison by a North Korean court .They both have received a harsh sentence by western standards of justice. Lets pray for their safe arrival Home ASAP.

4. Last, I want to pray for Everyone- whatever issues or struggles you are facing in your life, I hope that you can work it out, find peace and realize that things will be ok. Enjoy your day everyone.

In the meantime, I have added some new stuff to my Etsy shop. Check it out!!!
So I've finally learned how to crochet. yay, for me. Im super excited to show off my crochet hoop earrings. Also, for those of you that are Poodle lovers, I have made this necklace. What do you think???

Inspirational quote for the week

2009-06-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

If you judge people, you have no time to love them- Mother Teresa

Road to Success

2009-05-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

The Road to Success

The road to success is not straight.
There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a place called Success.

Phillipians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength

Also, heres some new stuff I just finished making.

Finally.....the weekend

2009-05-23T05:56:00.000-07:00

Im so happy that it is finally the weekend. It has been a long week for me but I've made it.
I just finished making a new bracelet for my Etsy shop. All things pink. Hope you enjoy

Also, today is a special day. There is a wonderful Etsian I have come to know. She is truly amazing and can knit and crochet anything and everything you can think of.
Today it is her birthday. schiersknits- Happy Birthday!
I hope you have a fantastic day and that you are happy and healthy. Your talent and your powerful spirit are an inspiration to me as well as other Etsians. Have a wonderful birthday and many many more.
You guys can also check out her Etsy shop.....

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7011947

Here is just one of the many things she make in her shop.

I finally caved in...

2009-05-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

So I finally caved in and decided to create a blog site. Im super excited. This is my very first blog site ever. Stay tuned..