Featured Artist

This artist is a needlework artist. Here is Eggmoney -

Here is our interview with the artist, Lynn -


Describe what you make?

I make a wide variety of needlework items. I like to try different techniques and methods. Working in different mediums inspires creativity in the others and keeps it lively. I make quilts, children's clothing, smocks, aprons, bead knit purses, beaded leather Indian corn pendants, jewelry pouches, totes, and greeting cards, and more. I also do custom work.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I most enjoy handwork projects such as hand embroidery, appliqué, quilting, and knitting. I like to work at a peaceful pace and ponder things while creating. Handwork is also portable and I can take it along when I go to my teenagers' music events, and appointments.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been doing needlework as long as I can remember. I come from a long line of needle workers. Along with many valuable life lessons, my mother and grandmother taught me to sew, knit, crochet, tat, embroider, and more. My sisters and I used to make clothes for our dolls. I also did a lot of projects for 4-H competitions. I finished my first quilt in 1976 for the bicentennial celebration. I was in 6th grade. It won ribbons at the local fairs.

How did you get started?

I started my etsy shop when my youngest child turned one. I was making so many children's clothes that there was no way one little girl could wear them all.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My grandmothers and great grandmothers lived on farms and had small chicken flocks from which they earned household money or "egg money" from selling eggs. They also supplemented their household income by selling baked goods and needlework. I believe they are smiling now as they see me revive that tradition in a twenty first century setting.

We have a flock of chickens that free range around our yard and we sell their colorful and healthy eggs to neighbors and friends.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I pride myself on quality workmanship- I sew as if my mother is watching over my shoulder, as she did when I was doing my first sewing projects in the 4-H club. "If something is worth doing, it is worth doing right!" she would say.

I get inspiration from my three children, family memories from my childhood, and my present surroundings (including the chickens).

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Create things that you enjoy making. Have fun. Don't compromise your values for a sale. Be patient.

_____________________

C0me to her shop and meet Lynn at Eggmoney.

While you are at Etsy come by and visit with us - we are getting our shop ready for your Valentine's Day gifts for your "Sweeties"!

Featured Artist

Our featured artist makes something that is very timely with Christmas in two days and a coming need to express your thanks for all of the wonderful handmade gifts and art that you will receive. Our artist is a card maker and has a great on line shop with many thank you cards right now!


Here is our interview with the artist, Pegg -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make handmade note cards and ribbon headbands, hair clips, and flower pins. The notecards usually have some kind of rubber stamping on them. I'm mad for rubber stamps!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy working with paper most. I just can't seem to get enough paper. I've always been in love with fabric, but you can only sew so many things and collect so much fabric. When I got turned onto rubber stamping a few years ago--I became a paper addict!

How long have you been creating craft?

I went to a stamping demonstration about 10 years ago and started very slowly making cards to send to friends and give to family members. I was instantly hooked on the rubber stamping idea.

How did you get started?

I got started selling when I moved into the neighborhood where I now live. Some of the neighborhood girls were having babies and there were baby showers for which I needed gifts. I started making baby notecards (like Thank You's, etc.) for them as gifts. With a lot of support and encouragement from my friends, I started making the cards to sell. I did a couple of craft shows to begin with about four years ago and now I pretty much sell all year long and not just baby notes. The ribbon accessories that I make and sell come from having a teenage daughter and a love of all ribbon. I dabble in making different things depending on what ribbon is in my stash. If I sell lots of ribbon things, I can buy more ribbon!!!!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My shop name is Pegg*Macko*Designs. I was trying to think up something really catchy, but when you make more than one type of article it's kind of hard. So using my name means that pretty much no one will have the same shop name as mine. So far it works for me!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I would like people to know that all my designs come from me. I have lots of inspiration around me (I'm holding on to this soap wrapper that came from a hotel bar of soap because I love the design on it) and I use it any way I can to make something that I like. I love bright colors.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My only advice--start out slowly. Don't get in over your head too soon. Think things through. Rome wasn't built in a day. A successful business usually isn't either.

_______________________________

Come and visit Pegg at her shop.
You know that you are going to need some thank you cards and she has some wonderful ones!

While you are at Etsy come visit with us!

Featured Artist

This week's artist does some very different work - collage turned into many different forms including jewelry! Our featured artist is -


Here is our interview with the artist, Tammy!

Briefly describe what you make?

I create digital and mixed media collages, focusing on those used for decoration or jewelry. I have a line of digitally and/or paper collaged pendants.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love the versatility of using both paper and digital elements in my designs. I collect vintage books and ephemera, and enjoy using those in the digital medium (I can’t stand cutting up vintage ephemera – it’s a disease, I know!) I guess I’m a pack rat at heart. With Photoshop I can cut up whatever I want, repeatedly, without guilt. 

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been creating collages for a year now, although I’ve been a scrapbooker (in the loose interpretation of the word) since High School. I used to create layouts with construction paper and markers, but I have evolved. LOL. Now I create layouts, digital scrapbooking elements, and projects for several sites/publications, combining all my loves.

How did you get started?

I started collage after discovering Claudine Hellmuth’s book “Collage Discovery”. Since then I have been hording collage ideas and information like a junkie!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

CollageObjects came about because I wanted to create a shop that could include all my various collage products – paper and digital. I hope to expand my shop to include other collage jewelry items and paper collage items soon.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I want people to “FEEL” when they look at my work – either to laugh with me, cry with me, or smirk! I hope to illicit a reaction to my work – whatever that reaction might be.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Go with your gut. It took me a long time to realize that “collage” didn’t have to mean “dirty-looking”. My collage is very “clean” looking – and that’s “OK” with me. Don’t worry so much if people will like your work – do what YOU want to do, and people will respond to your honesty.

_______________________

Wonderful! Tammy has a shop
and a blog site!

Go right over and visit her shop! And while you are at Etsy come see the great new things that we have added to our shop!

Featured Artist

We are featuring a great quilter! Her name is Heather and her shop is

Here is our interview with Heather!

Briefly describe what you make?

I make baby and doll quilts and the occasional ACEO.
ACEO = Art Card Editions and Originals

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love great fabrics! Fabrics are one of my inspirations...I see a design that strikes me and a whole quilt starts forming in my head! Some of my favorite fabric designers include Heather Ross and Amy Butler.

How long have you been creating craft?

I started quilting in 2005.

How did you get started?

My job at the time was was creating a lot of stress and taking up a lot of my time. My husband begged me to find a hobby to relieve some of the stress.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

A good friend of mine is a talented musician, among other things. She wrote a song when we were in high school in which each verse was about one of her friends. In the verse about me she called me Baby Anne. Anne is my middle name and I had started using it a lot at the time. I've always like the name Baby Anne.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I machine-piece my quilts because it's quick. But I hand-quilt my quilts because it takes time! I love curling up on the sofa with a chick-flick on the TV and quilting! I also love the hand-touched quality hand-quilting gives my quilts. I also love the historical-quality of quilts. As an art historian, the history of quilts as a craft first attracted me. But as a quilter, the idea that what I make will become part of the personal history of a family is what keeps me quilting!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Be passionate! People are attracted to passion and when you create what you love and love what you create, people will notice!

_____________________________

Come take a look at Heather's shop and find some great gifts for babies and children.

And, of course, while you are at Etsy come stop by and visit with us. Lot's of great things for the Holiday gift season!

Craft Show Wisdom

It is a disgrace. Craft shows are becoming flea markets. There are more commercial "buy and sell" items at craft shows than there are crafts - it does not seem to matter to the promoters who are running the craft shows or the shoppers. So - what does it matter. The promoters are happy and the the shoppers don't mind. Who is it hurting?

IT IS HURTING THE CRAFT ARTISTS! We spend a lot of time creating the things that we make and sell. We express our feelings, our emotions, and our talent in what we create. It is art. It is art that we wish to share through sale to those who appreciate art. The traditional venues to sell art - and craft - is through a gallery or a craft show. The craft show has been the opportunity for the beginning crafts person to introduce his/her work to the world and seek buyers. As craft shows are being run now, that opportunity will soon be gone. There will be no more crafts at craft shows. The artists and the craftspeople will give up because we cannot compete with a guy selling imported merchandise that wholesales for two dollars and he is selling for $5.

At one time - and this is many years ago, it was hidden. The items would be placed out on display disguised as craft - if asked, they would even say "Oh, yes, I make these." One guy even told us that the same ones that you see in Macy's were made by him. (Right!) Now, it is blatent with no attempt at disguise. The import labels are clearly visible. The commercial packaging is right there with the item. The cartons are stacked under the table - all clearly and commercially marked.

We went to a show recently where only four out of the thirty so-called "crafts people" actually made the items that they were selling. There was a table with AVON. There was a table with Webkinz. There was a table with commercially made and packaged candles. There was a table with imported and still in the package scarves. There was a table with a commercial catalog out for you to pick jewelry from. There was a table with books. These, and many more tables of commercial jewelry. The sign outside said "CRAFT SHOW". The advertisement in the paper - which must have cost the promoter $1,000 - said "CRAFT SHOW". But where were the crafts.

What can be done? Not much. Here is why. This happened to me and I know others that it has happened to as well. Here is our story - we were at a craft show that had a good reputation for a community show. We saw many booths selling commercial items and we went to the people who were running the show to point this out to them. They told us that they did not know - what is not to know - the items are tagged "Made in China". They told us that they would go around and look. If they did or not, it does not matter. All of those booths continued to sell their imports for the rest of the day. Now, the kicker. The next year we sent an application to the show. We were not accepted. We went to see the show and what did we find - even more booths selling imports. If you complain, you are not wanted back. So it is better to keep your mouth shut if there is any chance that you might want to come back again next year. This has not just happened to us, but to others at other shows also!

The promoters get their money on the participation fees. Anyone's money is good to them. And calling it a craft show will bring in different and more people than calling it a flea market.

Why do people buy from these booths? They see something that they like and it does not matter who made it or where it came from - and besides it is a bargain.

If you are a shopping at a craft show and you see commercial items go up to the booth and tell the seller how talented she is and then ask how she make these lovely things. See what answer you get. If she (he) tries to bluff then point out the import tags. If it is admitted that they did not make any of it - ask why they are at a crafts show when they should be at a flea market. I am sure that they will say because no one stopped them.

Featured Artist

This week's artist is a fellow leatherworker. Come and meet Gill from England!


Briefly describe what you make?

I make retro style suede and leather belts.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Leather would be my material of choice. It’s available in a whole range of finishes and colours and some of the textures are amazing. I adore suede too – it is so tactile.

How long have you been creating craft?

I’ve been crafting since a child and always had a real flair for art at school. My Grandma taught me to knit when I was 8 and I still pick up the pins thirty-something years on! I’ve tried my hand at most crafts but the one that I have never been able to master is sewing – I would love to learn how.

How did you get started?

Making and selling belts happened by pure chance. I found a book of suede swatches and remembered being given a belt way back in the early 70’s made from different coloured suede, so I set to and made one for myself. I wore it to work and was amazed (and delighted) at all the compliments. I left work that day with 4 orders! And I continued to get lots of requests, including one from my mum who’s in her sixties! I found a good local supplier and bought in a range of suede and leather and built up a stock. I did my first fair in July 2007 and have a regular stall at a city centre arts and crafts fair here in Leeds city centre.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

A clever play on words and I have to give full credit for my shop name to my partner John. I had my first craft fair looming and needed a name as I wanted to create professional signs and tags. I had been racking my brain for days and mentioned it to John. Within 5 minutes he’d come up with ‘Easily Suede’ – I love it and get lots of positive comments from customers.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

That’ I thoroughly enjoy making every belts and that each link is cut by hand – not by machine as some people think. And I have the hard skin and blisters to prove it!!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Show off! Blow your own trumpet! If I’d just accepted the compliments at work without saying I’d made the belt, none of this would ever have happened and I’m loving every minute of it! I don’t think I’ll ever make a living from it but I’m broadening my range and playing with different designs and enjoying ever minute of it.

___________________________

Come and look at Gill's suede and lether belts at her Etsy Shop.

While you are at Etsy come and see us and all of the new things that we have been adding to our shop! And don't forget - buy handmade for the holidays. Give a gift that is truly different!

Featured Artist

First, I would like to point out the change in the title of this column. I will still be writing about a different artist every week! And this week's artist is very different - a soap maker!


Here is our interview with Karina!
_________________________________

Describe what you make?

Handcrafted soaps and lipbalms using quality ingredients, essential and fragrance oils, and catering to men, women and children alike!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love working with fragrance and essential oils--there are so many combinations of scents that can be created, and invent some new ones along the way. I also enjoy the cold-process method of making soap, and knowing that every single one of my products was made fresh from scratch--it's relaxing, therapeutic---plus it makes my home smell WONDERFUL in the process!

How long have you been creating craft?

I started making soap 2001.

How did you get started?

I first learned to make soap a few years ago when my husband was sent on a business trip to England. The corporation paid for the wives to go as well as a "show of support" and, well, there was not really a whole lot to do and I didn't want to sit in a hotel room inbetween business dinners and social events. I discovered a place nearby that offered a professional one-day course in soap making and arranged to have a class there. Later on, I took several soap-making courses in Oregon, and continuously read books, learned new techniques, etc. I then joined the Handcrafted Soap Maker's Guild in 2003 which is a great way to network and learn new skills. Lip balms just followed naturally (I started making them last year) as I wanted to offer variety in my store as well. It can be a lot of work, but it's also quite rewarding :)


Where does the name of your shop come from?

Well..my name is Karina..and everything you see in my shop was created from my own two hands....so...the store name KreatedbyKarina naturally followed--rolls off the tongue quite nicely, don't you think?

What would you most want people to know about your work?

It's amazing what a certain scent can make you remember. And feel. Lemon zing makes you refreshed...peppermint; alert. Warm and spicy scents bring an aura of comfort. I love working with new scents. As soon as I get in a shipment of new fragrance oils I tear open the box and immediately open each one to get a full wiff of the essence of what I will be working with. And I write down what it reminds me of...how it makes me feel. It's from there I can take the next step: using it properly to invoke those same feelings and memories in you. I want to capture a moment of life in every single bar. That's most important to me.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Love what you do--keep doing it--and don't ever look back!

______________________

Wonderfully different! This is a shop that you must see and buy from! Take a look at KreatedbyKarina.

While you are at Etsy, come on over and see the new things that have been added to

Featured Artist of the Week

This week we have something different - a paper artist. Come meet Row, the artist at



Describe what you make?

I create papercrafts with a particular emphasis on memory preservation ( also known as scrapbooking, photo albums), journaling (compositions books), and memo keeping (notepads, planners and jotters).

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love, love, love paper. The possibilities are endless for what you can create and alter with just paper and glue. The paper doesn't even have to be designated just for crafting. I love to re-purpose newspapers, magazines, cardboard, packaging, and other paper items. You just have to see the potential in something and then work towards realizing it.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been crafting since I was a child but I've been involved in a dedicated form or another of crafting for over 20 years. I've enjoyed fabric crafting, painting, sewing, and now papercrafts. Papercrafts is my absolute favorite because I can incorporate all the other crafts I've done in the past into my papercrafts. For example, I can sew on paper, or use fabric cut-outs, or add a little inking or painting.

How did you get started?

I got started in papercrafts as a child when my mother used to roll up glossy magazine pages into slender tubes. We would cover juice cans or boxes with these colorful tubes to make them into pencil holders or other crafts. From that point on I became acutely aware of the different designs and texture of papers, cardstocks and cardboard. I realized that paper didn't just come as an 8 1/2 x 11 white sheet. I realized that so many things can be done with any type of paper. That realization evolved into making my own books, cards, gift boxes, decorations, and albums. Papercrafting has allowed me to express myself while creating items that were useful in my daily life. Nothing is more personal to me than to give a handmade card or tag or to add create my specially themed album as opposed to buying one off as store shelf. Lots of time and effort go into each of my projects and that is part of the giving or gifting process.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

If it isn't obvious by now, my name is an indication of how much I love paper. Patterned, textured, or handmade paper--there is possibility in it all. I love paper, I am papersilly.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I expend a lot of time and effort in my projects. I never sell them with the primary intent of making money. It's a cliche but money really isn't everything. Personal pride and satisfaction in my work is more important to me. I want people to enjoy my products and be proud to own it. Whether they ever realize the amount of time and effort that went into it, I want it to be obvious in the detail and quality of the item.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Do what you love and love what you do. If your heart is not in it, it reflects in the quality of your creations. You either MAKE an item or you CREATE it. You either do it as a HOBBY or an ART. It's your choice how you elevate your efforts. Another piece of advice-- find potential in everything you see. Whatever you do can be so much more than the beginning stage. The end result can be a treat or surprise to someone, it can be a comfort or a joy, it can treasured and kept forever. You just have to elevate to that level.

_________________________

That was a great interview, and Papersilly is a great shop to visit.

While you are at Etsy come see the many new things that we have at our shop!

BUY HANDMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

You are about to start racking your brain for what gifts to get family and friends for the soon to be here holidays. You will walk through the malls and look in each store and see the same things that you saw last year. You think to yourself, "What did I buy for Mary last year? I can't give her that again!" The holidays are supposed to be fun and festive - not a marathon shopping excursion weekend after weekend with no results. And then when you finally find SOMETHING, ANYTHING and buy it, wrap it, and give it with a smile - that gift some how makes its way back to the store on December 26th to the return counter.

You know you know what I am talking about! Would you like to avoid all that? Would you like to buy something that will not be returned and will be appreciated. It is easy. Would you like to know the secret? Sure you would. Buy handmade!

Buy gifts that have been created with love by an artist who has put talent and effort into making that gift. No worry about if it has LEAD in it! No concern if it is a recall put back on the store shelf!

So this is a good idea, eh? Where can you buy handmade? ETSY! This is an internet site that is a world of handmade. There you will find wonderful craftspeople and artists with great and unique things ready to sell to you!

Start by looking through the great artists that have been featured here on our site. All of them have shops there. Come by my shop and find some really unique and different things.

Don't exhaust yourself before the holidays even begin! VISIT ETSY and enjoy yourself this year!

Artist of the Week

This week's artist is a jewelry artist. The shop is called Alegro Arts and it is a shop on Etsy.


Here is our interview with artist, Gary.
_____________________________

Briefly describe what you make?

Handmade jewelry and beads. Right now, I'm focusing on stringing, beadwork, and polymer clay.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love working with natural stone, theres just so much variation and possibility that I could never come up with on my own. My wife will find the most amazing stone or glass beads, and its a challenge to come up with ways to use them.
I started working with polymer clay last year, and I really like the possibilities of that medium. I finally made some pendants that I like well enough to try to sell last month.

How long have you been creating craft?

As long as I can remember. But not always jewelry. I just love to learn and work with my hands, so I try to pick up whatever people around me are willing to teach. I've learned cross-stitching from a friend of mine as a way to pass time on long bus trips. I've done some sewing, crochet, painting, airbrushing, and even air brushed t-shirts at a comic book store for a while.

How did you get started?

When I was a musician, I worked for a while in musical instrument repair. A lot of the techniques used there are the same as jewelry making, like silver and brass work, soldering, brazing, and plating. I started doing some repair work on silver jewelry, then my wife pushed me into going all out into making my own.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Allegro is a musical term, it means "brightly, with spirit" I was a music major and professional musician for a while, and I liked the term. I decided to call it "Allegro Arts" instead of "Allegro Jewelry" because I know I may change gears and find new mediums whenever I get inspired.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Every piece has a story, some inspiration that made me put it together that way. That does make it a little difficult for me to make multiple copies of a design, but it works for me.
Im not really in this for the money. If I make enough to pay for my hobby, I'm happy. I may not be rich, but I do enjoy what I'm making, and that comes out in the designs.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't try to follow trends or make whats hot right now. Make what you love, what inspires you. If you just try to make stuff that sells, you'll be bored with your work.

______________________

Come and see Gary's work at Allegro Arts!

And while you are at Etsy come visit with us and see all of the great new things that have been added to the shop for the holidays!

To support The Art of Craft please click on the Google ads at the right side.

Craft Show Wisdom

We are currently working on a book about selling crafts at crafts shows. A publication date has not been set yet, but keep an eye on this site for the announcement.

In the meantime we would be happy to answer questions about craft shows, what to expect, what is required, and so on. If you have any questions you would like answered just leave a comment and our answer will be incorporated into one of the Craft Show Wisdom articles!

Featured Artist of the Week

Our artist feature this week is on

Here is our interview with the artist, Jim - a really great glass artist!

Briefly describe what you make?

There are two main types of glass, and both are used in my work, soft, and hard. You are probably wondering how can glass be soft?, everyone know it is “hard”. The differences are the temperatures at which the glass will melt is the biggest criteria, My work is generally categorized as supplies: lampwork borosilicate beads which are categorized as “hard glass”. Lampworking goes back to the days of ancient Egypt, when they had slaves who would fan the fires, or “lamps” filled with oil, to raise the temperature of the fire.
Additionally, using “soft” glass, fused glass dichroic pendants are made, in a kiln. Kind of like a glass sandwich, all melted together, NOT edible, but most beautiful. After the pendant is annealed, and cooled, I then facet it, in much the same manner a gemstone is faceted. A very time consuming process, but, in my opinion, well worth the extra effort.

In addition to making glass beads, and pendants, there was a time when I made glass cuff bracelets, using dichroic glass.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

A friend once told me that I have a real passion or glass, and it is so totally true. I have studied, and mastered silversmithing. As soon as I get a “round tuit”. Plan on merging the two (glass and silver) together to a greater degree, and making finished pieces

How long have you been creating craft?

Let’s see. My journey with glass started in ’75. 1975 that is, I am old, but not that old..

How did you get started?

The glass journey started with a desire for one (1) Tiffany style lamp. There was a fine gentleman in my town, Naperville, Ed Hoy, who ran a retail store and sold stained glass supplies. It was a long conversation, him telling me you do not start with a lamp, and me telling him “ I only want one lamp”. Finally he relented, and sold me what would be needed to make one lamp. I was instantly addicted!!!!! First it was flat work, lamps, windows, etc. Then on to sand blasting, fusing (melting) the glass, and finally lampworking, or as it is often called off hand glass blowing.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My ancestors all came from Czechoslovakia, and there were a few from Moravia, and I am told some were gypsies. Doing art shows., traveling here and there was indeed a transient life style. So, it seemed logical to merge them together, and arrive at the name “glass gypsy”.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

My work is created from images that I see in my minds eye. It isl original, and created using all the talents GOD has given me.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Here is a favorite quotation of mine :
“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears
a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or
far away.”
David Thoreau
Truly do believe that this speaks to all artists. Please yourself first with your work. Let your heart and your inner spirit guide you for the direction to take. Life is so short, and sleep is highly overrated!

___________________

Wonderful work! You have to see the glass beads and glass creations that Jim creates at Glass Gypsy - an Etsy Shop!

While you are at Etsy come by and see a whole new assortment of things - and especially things for the holidays at

Craft Show Wisdom

I am changing the name of this regular feature from Craft Show Tip of the Week to Craft Show Wisdom. The articles will continue to be short and to the point and offer tips and knowledge for new craft show participants or those who would like to sell at craft shows.

So -

If I were titling these articles for each topic they cover, this article would be titled, "Having a Thick Skin". Craft shows are not for the sensitive. Why? Because you hear some of the most off hand and sometimes insulting comments from potential customers at craft shows. These comments are not directed at you directly, but happen in conversation between two or more people standing in front of your display of the work that you have poured your heart and talent into.

Here are a few examples -

"Oh look, Grandma made those in the nursing home!"

"Jimmy made those in sixth grade woodshop!"

"I could just make that at home."

and the most recent comment that I have heard -
"Any woodworker could make those!"

Now, I try to have a thick skin and I tell myself to ignore the comments, but with that last one I found myself saying out loud, "No, not just any woodworker can make these. It takes a woodworker with a lot of talent and skill to make them." The reaction that I got was a semi-apology.

They are not saying that your work is not good, but they are saying that your talent is meaningless - after all grandma, little Jimmy, and anyone could do what you have done.

Try to smile to yourself and let it pass, but expect to hear anything!

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's artist is a photographer and graphic designer. Our featured artist this week is




Here is our interview with the artist, Christine -

Describe what you make?

I offer prints of my photography in my shop along with a bit of graphic design.

My photography is mostly black & white and infrared photos that include nature. I live in a beautiful town in Tennessee and fortunately we have a lot of gorgeous scenery. One of my favorite places to shoot is the Big South Fork National Park. I’ve also started getting into more studio-related photographs and hope to expand on that section of the shop over the next month.

My graphic design at the moment only includes pre-made logos but will soon include custom logos, pre-made shop banners & avatars, and custom shop banners and avatars.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Photography of course! I also enjoy digital art and would love to branch out into ceramics and painting as well.

How long have you been creating craft?

I’ve been taking photos for as long as I can remember. It started with disposable cameras, cheap film cameras, and then moved into a cheap digital camera. I think I really got into it around December of 2006. This is when I purchased my first professional camera and really started focusing on learning about photography and all the equipment available.

I now have several lenses, filters, tripods, and other great goodies to help me get the best shot possible.

How did you get started?

My mother actually got me started. She’s always loved art, photography particularly. I remember when I was a child there was always a camera there to capture my every move. My mother took her camera everywhere with her.

I picked that habit up early in life and started packin’ mine to school everyday to take pictures of friends. Although, my cheap film camera wasn’t up to par with her professional camera it still gave me great pleasure when I got my prints back.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

It comes from my real first and last name put together with my craft. Christina Perdue Photography is very simply and to the point. As an artist my dream is to become well-known for my craft and I figured the easiest name to get out there would be my own. ;)

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I love it! Photography is my passion. There’s something about capturing a moment in time that you may never get to experience again that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Life is so short and changes so fast… I want to always remember everything I see and do.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

I think my favorite quote says it all... “Everyone says, "How the time flies." The days go by and they are years, and the years finally become our whole life. Each daily portion can be wasted, or it can be a pleasure, before it is gone forever.

___________________

Come see Christine's photography at her Etsy shop!


While you are at Etsy come take a look at our shop too!

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's artist is



Here is our interview with the artist, Miranda!

Describe what you make?

I’m the kind of person that always has several projects going at once. Primarily I work in the visual arts, in printmaking and painting. Currently I am working on a series about urban landscapes. Documenting the area where I live, in Brooklyn. I also make books some are journals some take the shape of paintings. I love making journals because it opens up a black canvas for someone else to write or draw. And last but not least, I have a line of accessories and other fun little things.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I must say that I have what some people have referred to as, a ‘paper fetish’. It is really my love of paper that got me interested in bookbinding. I also spent a year working for a designer where we made paper pulp on a daily basis. I like to get down to the bottom of things. Whatever medium I am working in it is important to me that I fully understand its character.

How long have you been creating craft?

Since I can remember.
It was the one thing that I didn’t suck at in school. I went to school in Denmark, where there is a lot of hands-on training in schools. I was horrible at anything that involved letters and words. But I always did well when creating anything with my hands. So I was encouraged to go in that direction.

How did you get started?

In terms of the crafty thing, I guess that was when I did my first Xmas market in Christiania, a free town in Copenhagen. I must have been around 19 or so. I friend and I where lucky and got a both to share. It was a learning experience.
Later when I moved to New York I became much more interested in the Fine Arts. I was able to study with a lot of very gifted people and also pick up some business skills along the way.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Mira Artz is the name of my accessories shop. It comes from ‘Mira’ a part of my name that stems form the Latin ‘see’ or ‘look’.
The second shop is my Name, Miranda Hellman. This one has things like small paintings, prints, collages and artists books.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

My work whether it is something you wear or hang, has a story behind it. I don’t always reveal that story, but hope that it speaks to you in some way.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Crate everyday. And keep very high standards for yourself.

_____________________________

Come over the Miranda's shop, MIRA ARTZ
She does beautiful work!

And while you are at Etsy, stop by and see what we have for you.

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist is ---




Here is our interview with the artist, Amanda.

Describe what you make?

I make a variety of sewn and knitted items. I like to make tote bags and reusable shopping bags, from recycled, re-purposed, or vintage fabrics whenever possible. I also make the occasional toy, and I love to make aprons. Sewing with scraps fascinates me, because it is a way to get something usable out of something otherwise unusable. I have quite a few scraps; I'm annoyed by the fact that garment pattern companies seem to use very wasteful layouts; I often have almost half a yard left after making a garment. I occasionally make hemp jewelry as well, and have done a little beading in the past.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy working with yarn and fabric the most. Yarn, in particular, is a very forgiving medium, and if you mess up, it's easy to hide the mistake or undo it and start over. Fabric I like because it is a lot quicker to make a garment out of a piece of already woven material than to essentially create your material by tying lots of little knots, which is what knitting is.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been creating crafts for nearly as long as I remember. My mother was very creative and taught me to sew and embroider at a very young age. Maybe not at five, but at six or seven. The first project I remember making for myself was a rag doll with button eyes, cut out along the lines of a gingerbread man, and the seams weren't even turned to the inside.

How did you get started?

I got started on Etsy because I stumbled onto the site and bought a vintage sewing pattern, a year or so ago. I didn't actually put up my shop until the end of August. I had been sewing a lot, but there is a limit to the number of purses and things that me, my family, and friends need, so to continue creating, I needed somewhere to get rid of the things I was making.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop comes from my tattoo. Seriously, I have a butterfly tattoo, but it is green and not really blue. Blue is my favorite color, though, and "Butterflygreen" just doesn't have the same ring to it.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

The thing that I want people to know about my work is that I don't make anything that I'm not in love with.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

The only words of advice I have come from the mistakes I've made as a newbie - one is don't undervalue your time, and keep track of how long it takes to make something, and the other is to remember to include all the fees you will have to pay in the price of an item. Make a pricing formula. Also, don't give up too easily. Count it all as a learning experience, sort of an apprenticeship.

__________________
Great interview! Great artist! Check out her shop Buterfly Blue

While you are at Etsy come on over and see us too! We have added some new things in our shop!

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist is


Here is our interview with Joy, the artist -

Describe what you make?

I make lampwork glass beads, which means I spend a lot of time over a hot torch melting glass into wonderful shapes. Then I use those creations to fashion into jewelry. I enjoy using silver mostly, but recently have ventured into the gold scene.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Glass is my favorite, but I also draw and paint. My avatar on Etsy (the cute little monkey that represents my shop) is a drawing of mine.

How long have you been creating craft?

All my life I've been up to some kind of art, but I started in glass about 2 years ago.

How did you get started?

On a whim, really! I saw a "Make Your Own Glass Beads" kit in a art supply/hardware store, and I thought "That would rock!". I took it home, made a couple of hundred dreadful lumps of molten glass, and here 2 years later I have the right tools and equipment (along with a lot of practice!) and can make a beautiful bead. I have never taken a class though.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Monkeys are my favorite animal. I live near Boulder on a street that has Boulder in it, so it seemed a logical choice. Plus, there's a lot of flinging that goes on in my studio!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Many people assume that I just buy glass beads and make jewelry out of them. Because I make each of the beads in my pieces by hand, one at a time, each one is unique and different. I also try never to have repeat pieces. If its sold, its the only and last one you will ever see.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Be patient! It takes time before people start to see that you have something they want. Keep creating and eventually you will be recognized for your efforts!

__________________________

Joy is a wonderful glass artist. You must see her work at her shop Boulderglassmonkey

She has a blog site too so take a look at that as well!

While you are at Etsy come see the new things that I have added to my shop!

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's artist makes great and very different infant wear. You have to see this! Our artist this week is FASA.



Describe what you make?

I make clothing for infants (currently sizes newborn to 24months, but I'm hoping to expand to bigger toddler sizes soon). Every piece follows a theme of love for the outdoors & nature.
The majority of my items are hand painted, using a design that I drew, then hand made into a screen stencil, and then hand painted into the clothing.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love working with fabrics. All of them.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been crafting since I was very little. We didn't watch a lot of TV in my house growing up, instead my mom taught us how to make things with our hands; knit, crochet, sew, draw, paint, bead. My dad taught us how to do wood working and wood burning. I fell in love with ALL of it.
As an adult I've had the opportunity to share crafting with more children than I can count. While I was going to college at Indiana University, I worked at the Boys & Girls Club running the art room. My career has had a lot of focus at camps, where I've shared many skills with the kids that came through the "Handy Crafts" area. (And I absolutely LOVED have FULL access to my own kiln!)

I've been selling my goods here and there for about the last decade. It started because I sew almost all of my own clothes. I get many compliments when I'm out and about, and my husband started to push me to tell people that I made them instead of just smiling and accepting the compliment. Once the word was out, people wanted me to make them things.
I've made bridal party purses, shirts for Phish groupies, custom boxing shorts for professional fighters, items for craft shows (candles, purses, women's tops, little button dolls, and the like), and all my own maternity clothes.

How did you get started?

I started making this infant line of clothing out of a personal need. My husband and I are avid outdoor lovers. Whenever we have spare time you'll find us on top of a mountain or in the middle of a lake. We love kayaking, hiking, backpacking, camping, climbing, and all things similar.

Like many (if not all) parents, when our son, Bryce (named after Bryce Canyon), was born last summer we wanted to dress him similar to how we dress, and to reflect the things we like and do. However, it was not as easy as I would have hoped to find these types of clothes. So I started doing this for my baby. Then I got to thinking that we can't be the only parents who would like these, so just this summer I put some up on my etsy shop.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My shop name is a nick-name for a nick-name. I adopted the nickname "Mufasa" in high school. I ran on the cross country team. There was one particular sectional meet in which around 300 girls were running the race. The starting line was set up terribly: we were all lined up at one end of a large field. We had about 100yards until the field ended, and there was a 5 foot wide path that went into the woods. As you can imagine it was a huge bottle-neck mess. In the middle of the field I was pushed down. The crowd had no where to go except over me (many were wearing one-inch long cross country spikes). I ducked and covered, as my life flashed before my eyes.
I was OK, just a little cut up. So when the coast was clear I got up, and SPRINTED the entire race (2.4 miles), finishing around 100th (I was hoping for top 10). A friend was watching the race on the sidelines and said that she had felt just like Simba when Mufasa gets killed by the antelope. The name stuck. Later friends shortened it to Fasa.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I'd like people to know how much thought, effort, and care goes into ever step of every piece. It takes me a long time to come with just the perfect design to put on the clothing, and then I make sure that I make the screen stencils well. After I carefully paint the main colors, I do black detail work by hand paint brush.
I also know (through personal experience... I swear my child is going to not only participate in extreme sports... but INVENT the next one!) how hard kids can be on clothing. So I heat set the paint to be sure it will withstand MANY washings!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

#1: Never give up. Whether you're trying to learn a new craft for personal fulfillment, or taking the next step to try and sell your goods, it can be a challenge. Don't let that get you down, and keep persevering till you've accomplished for original goal!
#2: Follow your instincts more than what others tell you. When you're the artist ONLY YOU can say if something's good or not. Don't let what others say compromise your visions.

______________________

Fasa's work is adorable. If you have an infant or not, you must go see it!

While you are at Etsy come by and see us too!

Craft Show Tip of the Week

Talking to your customers - yes or no? This is a question that can be debated for weeks, but it has been our experience that the answer is let your customers look without talking TOO MUCH to them. Smile always. Greet your customer with a friendly hello and then let them look. At most tell them that you are there to answer any questions - and perhaps introduce your work - "I make everything that you see!" Then shut up. Let them look. If you talk more they will WALK AWAY. People like to look and not feel that they are being pressured. Talking to your customers - whether you intend it or not, will be interpreted as pressure to buy. So keep smiling, be friendly and welcoming, but keep your mouth shut. Once they have picked out their purchase and begin the payment process, you can talk all you like.

Featured Artist of the Week

Our featured artist this week has a shop on Etsy called Tippytoe.

Here is our interview with the artist, Christine:

Describe what you make.

I make fun, bright, animaly, floraly, leafy, and vintage inspired costume jewellery and paintings.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love to work with beads, any kind I can get my hands on. I love anything vintage, especially if it's in animal or flower/leaf form. My Oma likes to give me her old jewellery she doesn't wear anymore for me to take apart and re-use. She's pretty great that way. For my paintings I love acrylics. I find it the best for playing around with!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been creating as long as I can remember. My father was an avid drawer and was always teaching me new techniques to draw birds. I think that's where a lot of my use of nature in my work comes from. Also, my mother always use to sew and when I was really young I use to take scraps of her fabrics and hand sew them into little purses for her. She never would use them though. But at least now she is my jewellery's biggest fan!

How did you get started?

I went to Sheridan College of Art and Design outside of Toronto for glass forming. Once I got out of school I realized that doing glass sculpture was a bit out of my budget. I had always made jewelery for friends and family so I got a couple of jobs working for a jeweler and a clothing designer. After a while of making other peoples work for a living I thought I'd give it a try for myself.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My boyfriend actually named my shop. Tippytoe comes from a Seinfeld episode in where George and Jerry use it as a code word because Jerry is trying to steal an answering machine tape form Georges girlfriend. We love Seinfeld!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Hmmmm, I would want people to know that my work is not to be taken too seriously! It's just fun to wear and fun for your walls. It's meant to be enjoyed!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Ahhhahaha! I'm not too sure I should be giving advice to anyone. But, I guess I'll say enjoy what you do/make, have fun with it! Don't take yourself too seriously. And the thing I'm still trying to learn is that not everyone is going to like what you make. Try not to take it personally because we all have different taste.

_____________________

Please be sure to come to Tippytoe and take a look at Christine's great work - both her jewelry and her art.

While you are at Etsy be sure to come over and visit with us!

Featured Artist of the Week

Our featured artist of the week has a shop called Handmedowns - but don't let the name fool you - this is all original work.

Here is our interview with the artist, Carrie -

Describe what you make?

I'm a photography student by day, a knitter and bookmaker by night! I make photography using a large format camera (the kind with the accordion looking bellows) and negatives that come in 4"x5" or 8"x10" sheets. Often I print them in the darkroom using traditional or historical processes, but you can also find more affordable digital prints in my etsy shop. I knit all kinds of things in my free time. I love knitting baby items because they go so quickly, but I'm also a huge lace knitter. The finer the yarn the better! I began making handmade books to store some of my photography because I felt nervous about the archival quality of plastic portfolio sleeves and every day books available in brick and mortar stores. I'm really nuts about the beautiful papers available that are of the highest archival quality!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

That's really hard to answer because photography and knitting each have a really special place in my heart. I would have to say without photography I feel like half a person. If I go too many days without shooting or printing in the lab, I just don't feel like myself! That can be both a curse and a blessing.

How long have you been creating craft?

I remember being really small and making crafts with my mom and little friends for my birthday party. I would make things with my mom all the time. I can't remember a time when I wasn't crafting!

How did you get started?

I'm so lucky to have been raised surrounded by people I would call crafters. My grandfather is a woodworker, my great grandmother was a seamstress and my mother followed suit, while my grandmother was a knitter. My crafting and creating was always encouraged, and I'm so blessed to have a family that supports and appreciates my need to have a career making photographs. I learned to knit and sew from the women in my family, and obtained a technical aptitude from my grandfather that has certainly played into my success with photography. It just happened.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I love the idea that people treasure handmade goods, and that often they become family heirlooms or treasures. I wanted my shop to reflect that idea of passing handmade items on like hand-me-down clothing.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

That it means something special to me to make it, and I hope people will see that. I just want to make that connection with one person so that they too will feel something special about what I've made. That's what it means to be an artist: to communicate something using a sensory language. I feel exactly the same way about my handknit sweaters and shawls as I do about my photographs.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

We can't make everything perfect all the time, and it takes a while to learn how to make things perfect. When you get in a funk or make mistakes, just remember that the lull or the mistakes will surely bring about your next works. A mistake or what feels like a creative block will undoubtedly make your next creations better! Try not to dwell on them... just work through it toward the next thing.

__________________________

Carrie does very nice work and you must go look at Handmedowns.

And while you are at Etsy come visit with us!

Featured Artist of the Week

Our artist this week is Tia and she makes small sculptures and assemblages.

Here is our interview with Tia:

Describe what you make?

I love to create and I have many varied creative interests. I design jewelry and hair accessories but my absolute favorite love is polymer clay! Each of my Sculptures are One of a Kind, original pieces of art. I don't use molds or casts in my creations - each piece starts out as a lump of clay and then imagination takes over!

For jewelry, I love to recycle and repurpose old items. Most of my Pendants are hand-made from old game pieces, like RummiKub pieces, old poker chips, etc. I bring them back to life with hand-cut printed paper, painted embellishments, and treasured findings.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I use a lot of paper, glitter, clay and all sorts of found items!

How long have you been creating craft?

All my life. I've gone through all kinds of phases with crafting - from sewing, to creating earrings, pendants and bracelets out of old vinyl records (we're talking 18 years ago!). I have 1/2 my garage made up into a studio and storage - just for craft!

My kids were always the kids at school who brought hand-made Valentine's Day cards and Gifts for their friends and teachers. I've kept one of each and have them in my "Treasure" trunk. (see below)

My family and friends all know that I will make them something for their birthday or Christmas. A crocheted quilt, jewelry of some sort or home made breads. I love one of a kind, handmade items and I've made my family love them too.

How did you get started?

I have been a crafter all my life. The earliest memories I have are of my mother and I creating things. One of the first things I remember creating was "stained glass" art - out of wax paper and leaves or crayon shavings. You sandwich them and then iron - beautiful!

It's been in the last 6 months that I've ventured online to sell. Its an adventure that I'm totally ready for!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I was little my mother had decorated an old trunk by painting it with flowers and rainbows (very 1970's.) Inside I keep all of my old school artwork, my old valentines and "treasured" items (plus artwork from my kids). Thus - Tia's Treasures.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

That I create every piece with care and love. I really care about what I create - its a little piece of me - and I hope that you will enjoy it too!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Believe in yourself, create what makes you happy and gives you pleasure and pride. If you're proud of your work, if you're happy making it - it will show through in the finished piece. Love what you do!

_________________________

Come see Tia's shop! Great gifts!
While you are at Etsy come by and visit with us!

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist is a leatherworker, and as a leatherworker, myself, I can assure you that this artist does quality leather work.
RAVENSHOLD


Here is our interview with the artist -

Describe what you make?

I mainly make items out of leather and do leather tooling, although I also make beaded lanyards and string beads to make jewelry.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Leather, particularly tooling leather. I love the effects I can create with a swivel knife and a few stamps and I'm carrying on a very old craft.

How long have you been creating craft?

I can remember making things when I was 5, but I'm sure Mom had me doing crafts before then though. She loved making things herself so she always had craft projects for my sister and I to make. I think she still has some of the salt dough Christmas ornaments we made back then.

How did you get started?

I started doing leatherwork when I started working at the local Tandy Leather store around 10 years ago. After I moved on to other jobs I did leatherwork off and on for friends and occasionally for myself but didn't too much with it. On the recommendation of a friend I had checked out Etsy and put a few little things out there and do much else. Then early this year it hit me that my store here was a good reason to make myself get back into doing leatherwork on a regular basis and I haven't looked back.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Well, to be honest, Ravenshold was the name I used for my county on an online game. I had chosen it for the game because I like ravens and adding hold made it sound vaguely medieval. When I signed up on Etsy couldn't use my first choice because it was already taken so this was the first thing I thought of. Over time it has become Ravenshold Creations.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Everything I do is by hand, including the sewing, so I work slow but I think it is definitely worth it because a well made leather item can last for years. (Even centuries if it is taken care of.) Also, leather tooling doesn't have to equal western style carving, there's a lot of other options out there, it can be hip or retro or trendy or whatever.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Stick with it, have fun with what you make, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Don't be afraid to ask for advice, but remember you don't have to follow all of it.

_________________________

This is a shop not to be missed. Take a look at Ravenshold.
And while you are at Etsy come visit with us

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist works in Sterling Silver. Her work is beautiful!

Here is our interview with the artist:

Describe what you make?

I call myself a "maker of small things," for 2 (at least) reasons. One is, I put m.o.s.t. on my business cards. I figured one way to get letters after your name was to make it up. Another is, I like metal, I like stones, I like color and a variety of materials. This, for some odd reason has made me into a jeweler. Life is kinda weird that way, I guess. But most of the work is derived from sketches and doodles. Very object oriented.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I carve wax and cast into silver or gold. I prefer gold but find the cost more stunning than the product. I would like to start carving other materials. I used to sculpt with plasticine and water based clay. This week I'm working on a piece with plasticine. I just like sculpting. Welding is the only thing I've found I don't care for much. Whether platinum or bronze... but it may be I haven't done enough.

How long have you been creating craft?

Forever. (I'm that old.) I have the jigsaw I used in grade school... my mother saved it for me. Didn't buy another until this past year.

How did you get started?

I haven't a clue. I know my mother allowed us kids to mess around with stuff, and gave us clay to shut us up. So she gets most of the blame. (Don't parents always do?)

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My name.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

My work is good quality handcrafted silver. Its a blast to make and fun to wear. (IMHO)

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Life is way too short. Have fun. Do what you want. Make what interests you. Try everything. Enjoy. Oh. And marry rich.

______________

Come take a look at this shop
and while you are at Etsy stop by and take a look at us!

Craft Show Tip of the Week

Make a checklist! Before you go to a craft show to sell, make a checklist of everything that you will need to bring with you to the show. When you are packing for the show, use that list to check off each item as you pack it. This way you will have everything that you need and will not leave anything behind. You will be surprised how hectic packing your car or van for a craft show can be. It is easy to forget even the most important things.

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's artist makes very unusual and cute greeting cards. This week we are featuring

Here is our interview with the artist, Haley:

Describe what you make?

I mostly make poodle-themed greeting cards. I take famous and well-known paintings and recreate them with poodles as the stars.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I like working with anything 2 dimensional. Especially paper and various drawing and printing medias.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been doing crafts since at least high school though just as gifts and not for purchase. I recently started my own business focusing on greeting cards.

How did you get started?

After a lot of thought and planning to make sure that this would be a fruitful adventure, I draw up a few designs and opened shop on my own website. www.haleyshandmades.com I found Etsy a couple of months ago and I thought it would boost my sales.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I wanted to make my name broad enough to add other items besides just greeting cards at some point but I wanted people to realize that everything I make is handmade and unique!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I love making it and I love that its theme is poodles. They are wonderful and aren't as prim and proper as everyone seems to think!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Keep making art daily and promoting yourself to become known in your local area, however you decide what that is. Make art about what you love. There's some people out there who will love your work just as much as your love creating it. You just have to find them!

________________

Go over to her shop
or her website! You will find some very different cards!

And while you are at Etsy, come visit us at

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's artist of the week is a jewelry artist with a shop with an interesting and unusual name.

Here is our interview with the artist:

Describe what you make?

I make a variety of jewelry that I sell on etsy. I have a love affair with bright color and earrings in particular. I also sell supplies in a second shop.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love to work with just about anything. I'm always looking for something that gives me inspiration- Colors, shapes, textures. I spend my weekends quilting, and often translate inspiration from one medium to another.

How long have you been creating craft?

Since I can remember? Both my parents are crafty in their own ways and have their own workshops/studios. I always loved playing with bits and pieces of things when I was a child and reassembling them into something else.

How did you get started?

My parents and family in general were very inspirational in beginning to make things and be proud of the things I made. My grandmother was an artist and art teacher and was always willing to look at things for me. I started looking at my craft as more than a hobby when I moved to Providence a few years ago and working at a science museum wasn't paying the bills. I started working at a fabric store, and really enjoyed working with helping other people get started and making things.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

antelucandaisy means night blooming daisy and I chose it because I am a night owl at heart. I tried to choose whoops-a-daisy as a second shop name (the name of my blog) but couldn't so I chose shooting star because I'm fascinated with stars.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

That I love it all.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

The most important things is to believe in what you do and enjoy it. I firmly believe that it shows in your work, and makes other people believe too.

_______________________

Her work is great. You must see it. Go to her shop right now! She also has a blog site that you may be interested in - http://antelucandaisy.blogspot.com

And while you are at Etsy, come by and visit with us too!

Featured Artist of the Week

Our featured artist of the week is Artangel. Artangel is a painter in the United Kingdom and does beautiful paintings.



Here is our interview with the artist, Angela.

Describe what you make.
I am an artist and the work I have on Etsy is all my original art - mostly acrylic or mixed medias paintings on canvas. I like to experiment though, and there are other artworks in my shop too; oil pastels, aceos, etc. (watch this space!)

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?
As I said I love to experiment, my favorite mediums at the moment include acrylic paints, collage (I love using found papers and bits of old artwork), colored pencils, watercolor, oil pastels.

How long have you been creating craft?
I have been painting and drawing as long as I can remember. I first sold my work at the age of 11 (on a very small scale, obviously!). I have been selling online for around a year and have been on Etsy since the end of April - it's a great site and has a lovely community.

How did you get started?
I really couldn't say how I got started painting, as I can't remember a time when I didn't. The love of color, texture and art generally is just inate in me I think. I have had a couple of really fantastic art teachers though, who certainly nourished my love of the subject. I first started considering that I may be able to sell my work online at the suggestion of a friend - thanks Julie!

Where does the name of your shop come from?
My name is Angela so I was thinking of maybe having that involved in the shop title, also I have been told that my style is quite feminine and spiritual, so I thought "angel" would fit with both.

What would you most want people to know about your work?
All my work on Etsy at the moment is original art and each piece is unique. I am always happy to create a commissioned piece to your specifications. Painting gives me such satisfaction that in many ways it is reward in itself, but when someone likes my work enough to actually hand over their hard-earned money for it, it is such a thrill!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?
Have faith in yourself and your work - you are unique and only you can produce what you produce. Be proud and keep creating - I firmly believe that art, in whatever form, enriches your life and hopefully the lives of others too.

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Take a look at Angela's paintings at her on-line shop.
While you are there come over and also visit with us -

Craft Show Tip of the Week

When doing an indoor craft show try to visit the location before the show to see the access in and out of the building as well as what you may encounter once you are inside to get to your sales space. There have been occasions when we have arrived and found several staircases that needed to be climbed (with your display, tables, and inventory) to get to the sales area. If you cannot see the space, ask very specific questions about access before you apply. With handicapped access more common now this is not always a problem - BUT not all shows are run in accessible areas.

Featured Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist is a jeweler. Her shop is called dandelionblu.


Here is our interview with the artist and owner of the on-line shop.

Describe what you make?
Jewelry- I like to use vintage Lucite for color, and lots of different metals. I just got into enameling so check back for some new enameled work!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?
Metal!

How long have you been creating craft?
I have always made things, be it painted seashells I sold on the side of the road as a kid, to photographs, to jewelry.

How did you get started?
I started making beaded jewelry a couple of years ago to give as gifts. Then started taking metal smithing classes last year after getting thoroughly burnt out by my event photography business.

Where does the name of your shop come from?
I like how it sounds and the words look together. My husband came up with the graphic. There is a double visual meaning to "blu" in the graphic.

What would you most want people to know about your work?
That it is ever changing, I love to explore new materials, and ways of designing. I am interested in how things hang and often try to work with asymmetrical designs.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?
Don't get discouraged or stop making- and you are brave for putting yourself out there!

Visit this shop. You will find some great jewelry there. And while you are there come and see the new additions that we have added at

Craft Show Tip of the Week

When you arrive to do a craft show do not arrive so early that by mid-day you are already exhausted and just want to leave. Your space is reserved for you. You should know in advance how long it takes to set up and arrive with enough time to set up your booth and displays. For some reason many arrive at 6 am for an 11am starting show - by 1pm they are ready to leave complaining how tired they are.

Featured Artist of the Week

This week we feature a fiber artist who calls her shop Kunklebaby. Here is our interview with the artist -

Describe what you make?
Unique, Luxurious, Handmade items tailored to babies and toddlers. Custom Slings, Clothing, Blankets and great gifts.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?
I love colorful, fun fabrics. Prints that excite me, texture-I only sell things that I would personally use, and love! I like to use 100% cotton, because I think it's important to use soft fabrics for new sensitive skin, and it's easy to care for.

How long have you been creating craft?
My entire life. I'm also a painter and cannot remember a time in my life that I wasn't drawing or finding new uses out of objects. I started creating my baby line after my children were born about four years ago. I had always loved sewing, but it became so much more important to me then. Personal.

How did you get started?
After the birth of my children, I could not find children's items out of the pastel range. I wanted vibrant, fun, unique and elegant. Many of my friends were starting families at the time too, and I was tired of having all the same clothes and accessories as them. Just because I had children didn't mean I was no longer stylish. I wanted to stand out and started creating my baby line then.

Where does the name of your shop come from?
My two children are very important to me. They are 12 months apart and have this super close relationship. When my oldest was two, they started creating and speaking their own language. Kunkle was one of their words. They used to tell me you could buy anything from the Kunkle Store-bread, toilet paper, even mermaids. My line started because of them and I knew the name needed to reflect that.

What would you most want people to know about your work?
They are easy to clean and will last through all the baby messes and toddler mishaps! I know how tired and busy mothers of young children are. The last thing you want to worry about is dry cleaning or hand washing. No time for that! I take great pride in the quality of my pieces.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?
Love everything you make. This love will set you apart. When people see how devoted you are to your creations, how cherished they become-they will see the quality you bring to the work. Also tell everyone you know, promote everywhere!

An artist and a mom - go over to her shop and see the great things for children and moms!
Then go on over and visit us at