FEATURED ARTIST

Our featured artist takes something old and makes it into something new. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Lorraine -

Briefly describe what you make?

I (mostly) make clothing and accessories and all of my items are created with upcycled materials. This has its upsides and downsides – the downside being that an item cannot be re-made exactly as the original and the upside is that each item is truly one of a kind!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Any fibers, textiles, jewelry, notions or other salvaged items. I am addicted to rescuing otherwise forgotten and discarded items and I use the characteristics of the existing pieces to inform my designs - the final piece evolves during the creation process and often ends up quite different from the original concept!

How long have you been creating craft?

I cannot remember a time that I didn’t create – from my very earliest memories of spending hours making simple daisy chains through painting, sculpting and altered art, I have always created. I grew up helping my Mum sew my dance costumes and learning photography from my Dad – I can still remember going into the attic where the darkroom was and watching the magical process of pictures appearing on a blank sheet of paper (pre-digital of course!).

How did you get started?

Hmmm – I’d love to give you a wonderfully profound story, but the truth is my creations and collections of found treasures were starting to take over the house! With much encouragement from friends and family I decided to overcome my fear and “put myself out there” as an artist/designer. Although the fear still lingers, I love it! I can create to my heart’s content and I no longer have to secretly squirrel away my finds or feel guilty about constantly hunting for treasures!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I moved to Canada from England and it always made me laugh when my brothers referred to my move as “hopping across the pond”. I later realized that “pondhopper” was actually a well used term for expats who moved to a country across the ocean from their own! Anyways, I thought it would be appropriate and decided to pair it with “studio” which is admittedly a rather grand name for my little room where all my designs are brought to life!

As a child our family travelled by ferry (long before the Chunnel was built!) from Dover to Calais every year and then camped throughout Europe for our summer holiday. There were always seagulls that accompanied the ferry across the “pond” so I decided to incorporate a seagull as imagery for my shop. I also liked the message of the 1970’s book Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach about the seagull that didn’t want to be one of the crowd and aspired to greater things, and as seagulls are natural scavengers, it seemed to fit! I spent a morning sitting outside our local Tim Hortons taking pictures of the seagulls that were waiting to scoop up doughnut crumbs before I finally snapped the seagull you see in my shop banner.

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

I love the whispers of lingering stories in my work and the way they make each piece so very unique - one of my customers told me that she loved wearing my designs because they inspired her, I hope that my work passes on a bit of that feeling to each new owner.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Be brave . listen to your heart . don’t stress when your muse goes silent for a while . share . push through barriers . have fun . be generous with your hugs

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This is truly a unique shop and you must see it!

FEATURED ARTIST

We have an artist who creates something that we have not had before on this site - come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Kathy -

Briefly describe what you make?

I have recently discovered my passion for cross stitched greeting cards for any occasion, birthday, thinking of you, baby, congratulations, and most holidays.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy working with the small cross stitch patterns that nicely stitch on 14 count aida cloth. I mostly enjoy the white and ivory coloured cloth and anchor floss for my projects. Soon I may need to add "glasses" to my ever growing supplies as it can be tedious work at times!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been cross stitching since 1999.

How did you get started?

I got started on holidays in Florida with cousins of ours. MInd you the cousins that taught me to stitch were an eleven year old and her eight year old little sister! It is something I was always interested in so in one afternoon these two little girls started my passion for cross stitching.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My shop name is not exciting at all! I joined up just as a curiosity and did not realize at the time I was stuck with this boring KCowie shop name. Though once inside my shop I'd like to go by created4U, maybe one day I will be able to change it.

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

I would want people to know the amount of work and hours that actually go into one of those little cards and that is BEFORE I turn it into the greeting card. It takes a great deal on concentration to complete a pattern, but I love it anyways.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice to others is do not get too attached to a piece of work you have done. I know it can be hard to part with it but in order to succeed you must not get too involved with the piece. Just close your eyes tight when you mail it off I find this often helps! Most of all enjoy what you are doing and the satisfaction it brings when someone likes it enough to purchase.

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Kathy does nice work. Come and take a look at her shop and then head back on over to here and leave a comment for Kathy!

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Like embroidery? Here is something else to take a look at!

FEATURED ARTIST

Hmm. Our featured artist describes their shop as "evil" - really. Well, that should get your interest about -



Come meet this "evil" artist -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make the world a brighter place with snarktastic greeting cards and paper gifts that your mother would never send. We combine beautiful design with edgy copy to create the kind of products that make smart people laugh.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I tend to prefer working in larges. Size matters, you know. Flytrap is a paper store.

How long have you been creating craft?

My shop has been open for a little over a year. But I don't consider it a craft. It's more of a means of spreading evil pleasure.

How did you get started?

I started by making jewelry. I sold okay, maybe 35 sales in 6 months. I realized I sucked at jewelry after I made some obnoxious parking tickets in December of 2009 (my only paper item at the time). They sold like hotcakes. By mid-February, I had given all of the jewelry away and completely transformed the business into paper products.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Venus Flytraps teeter on the edge of inappropriate plant behavior - just like Flytrap products do. They're also funny looking.

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

Someone, somewhere is going to get offended. Someone, somewhere else is going to laugh. The important thing to remember about Flytrap is that we will not skimp on quality in language, paper, design, or printing. You're going to be able to give someone a card that makes them laugh after teasing them with a warm and fuzzy graphic.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Be agile. Don't get emotionally attached to any aspect of your business - least of all your art. If something's not moving, create something that will. By the same token, realize there is a market for everything. If you're going to insist on creating a product that isn't moving, spend your time finding a market that wants it.

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Neat things from a neat artist. Come see NeatThings

FEATURED ARTIST

This featured artist's work is unique. You really must see it for yourself. Let me introduce you to



Here is our interview with the artist...

Briefly describe what you make?

I don’t know the best way to label what I make, but they are basically painted canvases that would be used as home décor or wall hangings. They have a design along with a quote or personalized to include a name. My next goal is to make some pictures frames.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I am really into acrylic paints right now. They have an endless possibility when it comes to colors and I find them to be the easiest paint to work with. Not to mention adding a little paint to something can make a HUGE difference.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been doing crafts all my life. My parents always say that when I was little I constantly had a piece of paper and pencil in my hands. From then on I’ve always had to be busy creating things. But only until about 2 months ago I finally decided to try to sell some of my pieces.

How did you get started?

One day I was sitting at Barnes & Nobles looking through a book of people who make money from selling crafts and came across someone who used Etsy. Right when I got home I started looking through the website and fell in love. I started creating canvases and when I felt like I had enough to start it up, I created an account and opened a shop. From there I created a facebook page and twitter account to try and get my name out there.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Coming up with a name for me was almost a nightmare. Once I came up with it I knew I would be stuck with it, and when you are a perfectionist that is a little stressful. My mom and I started emailing back and forth trying to come up with something and finally she came up with “Bellatina.” Both sides of my family are Italian (Longinotti & Ugolini…can you tell?) so it’s only natural that she had to incorporate some Italian in there and then she added on “tina” because that’s what some of my close friends call me, short for Christina. Put the two words together, add “creations” to it, and it makes a pretty good name!

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

I put a lot of effort into it. I am such a perfectionist it sometimes drives me crazy, but as a result, all of my pieces are very nicely done. I would never sell something that I wouldn’t approve of myself. I love doing them and I hope others can see that.

What advice do you have to give to other artists?

Be proud that you are an artist. Not everyone is given this talent. As an artist you are given the ability to express yourself and at the same time create beautiful things for others to enjoy.

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Good interview. Nice shop. Come and take a look at Bellatina Creations and then come on back here and comment and let this artist know what you think!

FEATURED ARTIST

I would like to introduce you to an interesting artist that works in hemp! Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Courtney...

Briefly describe what you make?

I must admit to being yet another Etsy jewelry designer, but I like to think I have a different take on design than other sellers! Personally I love taking a concept that others may think of as drab or boring and making it come alive. For instance, I base all of my design ideas on things I've seen in nature. I've had many people convo me saying that they love how my designs are so bright and full of different textures since they think of nature-inspired items as being a bit monotone in both color and texture. However, I feel that the natural world is full of different colors, shades and textures that many people just never notice!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

In particular I love macrame because I like taking hemp and dressing it up to be more than a "teenage" accessory, which I feel is how many people think of it. I also enjoy the feel of the fibers in my hands and how easy it takes on any shape or pattern I envision.

How long have you been creating craft?

I, of course, began tying hemp jewelry as a teenager and later began to expand my designs to include beaded and wire jewelry.

How did you get started?

I started designing jewelry because I needed a creative outlet and felt that I had no artistic talent, which I recently realized isn't true! It actually turns out that the OCD control freak in me was just afraid of the lack of control I feel over the paint and the canvas. I originally began selling my designs to make a little money on the side for groceries and extra spending money. Then a couple of months back I began to realize how much I love to create and that if I took my work more seriously I could actually turn it into a legitimate business, which it is well on its way to becoming!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My shop name was created while I was on one of my hippie chic fashion kicks and derives from the word eco-friendly. I thought I may end up regretting the name, closing shop and starting over, but as my design aesthetic has developed I have realized just how much I believe in being "green" and using as many earth-friendly materials as possible. After all, the rest of the world shouldn't suffer just so you can look fabulous!

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

Personally I believe the most important aspect of my work is the fact that it is all environmentally friendly. I use locally made materials, materials I create myself and scour yard sales and rummage bins for things to take apart and reuse by incorporating them in my designs. I feel that it is extremely important to keep as many items out of landfills as possible and this environmental consciousness definitely carries over to my designs.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

The most influential advice I ever received both as an artist and a person is to be true to yourself and let it flow through everything you do because that is the only way to be truly happy.


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You have got to go and take a look at this very different jewelry. Go and look at this shop and then please leave your comments here and let Courtney know that you appreciate her work!

Art to Share

One of the best ways to share art is to find artists creating their work as greeting cards. Often these cards are quality prints that are suitable for framing. For some time now, Past Perfect, has offered note cards and greeting cards featuring the photography of this artist.

The newest cards celebrate Spring and warmth - the warmth that is symbolized in the sunflower. The first of these cards is called Peep Peep.



Little chicks in their nest welcome Spring. This card makes a wonderful Easter Card and is great for any occasion. It would be a wonderful invitation to a baby shower! The inside of the card is blank so that any personal sentiment may be added.

The second card features the sunflower. There is a great fascination with sunflowers - perhaps because they are so large and grow so tall. This one is reaching the sky.


There are so many occasions that this card is perfect for. The sky and the sun - but the sun is the sunflower. Its warmth comes right through this image.

Cards make a wonderful way to share art. And, believe it or not, these cards are only two dollars each. There is also a special offer to mix or match any six of these same size cards for just $6.00 - including individuals of those offered in sets. And all with very low shipping. Come to Past Perfect to see all of the photo art cards that are offered!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

I am so happy to introduce you to another photographer who is selling her work on the Web. This is another member of the Photographers of Etsy group. Please come and meet April and her shop -



Here is our interview with April.

Briefly describe what you make?

I actually have 2 shops on Etsy, this one is dedicated to my photography and I also have a shop for beaded stuff. So I guess you could call me a beading photographer!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I'm a digital girl! I would really like to have a dark room some day and process my own film! As far as my subjects, I'm partial to nature, especially flowers. But, I also like to find the abstract in everyday things. And, thanks to my husband I like cars!

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been taking pictures since junior high (although I would NEVER show anybody any of that!!). I only really got serious about being artistic with it towards the end of last year. I, by no means, consider myself a professional photographer. This is more of a hobby for me. It was my husband's idea to start selling my photos, so I figured I'd give it a try.

How did you get started?

Just point and shoot! I think my dad was a big influence in my interest in photography. I always remember him with the camera around his neck, especially on vacation. I was amazed at the things I learned from simply reading the instructions for my camera. I can't imagine what I could come up with if I were to take a few classes.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My mom has called me Apple for as long as I can remember and I have recently become obsessed with the color orange. So, Apple Loves Orange! I do happen to like both fruits!

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

Like I said before, I am not a professional photographer! I just hope that people like what I have to offer. I do this mostly for me as an outlet for stress, I have 2 children that like to drive me crazy!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Do what you love and do it for you! It's mot much, but I am still so new at doing this. I'm rather like a sponge taking in any advice I can get myself!

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Come and take a look at April's photography and while you are at it, check out her other shop as well!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

We continue with our features on photography and photographers on the Internet. This is another member of the Photographers of Etsy. Come and meet Michelle of



Here is our interview -


Briefly describe what you make?

I am an artist with a passion for travel photography. I love to take pictures of urban settings, especially old architecture and street scenes. I also love to take macro shots of botanicals, fun shots of animals and a strange form of meditation for me is to take pictures of water using different shutter speeds and angles. I can really zone out that way!


What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Well, my number one fashion accessory is my Nikon D50 I named Nick! My lenses, scanner, along with CS3, my MacBook Pro, my brand new Wacom tablet (thanks to my awesome hubby!!) and my fantastic Canon ProPixma9000 printer, my arsenal of photography equipment keeps me happy at the moment. Well, there are a few more lenses I “need” and some filters, but for now, I’m a happy gal! Oh and I love painting with oils and drawing with a Grumbacher 6B pencil, it’s like liquid!


How long have you been creating craft?

Art has been a comforting companion for me my whole life. I have been drawing since I could pick up a pencil. I’ve been painting since college, I use it as a release for my emotions. And photography has been in and out of my life since my college years.

How did you get started?

I’ve always liked to take photos but didn’t take the hobby seriously until after college. I briefly worked as a University Photographer at my school while I worked for a wedding photographer. Then when I realized I needed more career stability, I started working in TV as a graphic designer and then as a promotions producer. During that time I would take travel shots but I was too busy to focus more on it. Since we moved to L.A. 3 years ago, the obsession is back and I can’t stop! It’s all I think about!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I just changed my business name officially to Urban Junkies Photography. I love urban areas, we used to live in downtown Los Angeles and I am an Urban Junkie! I’ve been carrying that name around in my head for 3 years now and I’ve always wanted to make something of it. I was really bummed when I saw someone has a blog called urbanjunkies.com, I really thought I was being original! But at least I can add photography to the end of it! So, I just bought the domain www.urbanjunkiesphotography.com and I am super excited to fill it up someday!

I choose ZuppaArtista quickly to sign up for Etsy. Campbell is my maiden name and my married name is Zurek which means “soup” in Polish. I hyphenate my last name so I am literally “Campbell Soup”. I have a thing for Italian and since zuppa is “soup” in Italian, and I have tattoo on my wrist that says ARTISTA I thought it would work as a shop name. But I am happy I switched to Urban Junkies.

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

I put my heart and soul into my art and photography. When I see something that inspires me I try to capture what I feel from it, to show my admiration for it. I fall in love with the subjects I photograph and I hope the viewer will to. Each shot is very meaningful to me, I want to document everything I experience.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

I have so much to learn myself!! ☺
I think most importantly, don’t let others opinions of your work define who you are. Etsy was really hard for me at first, I felt rejected because I hardly have any sales, or hearts. But I have realized that I am doing what I love, and I don’t know how to do anything else.

And definitely take a look at other artists and see how passionate they were for their craft. Gianlorenzo Bernini, Camille Claudel and Dan Eldon are my inspirations when I feel down about my work. They keep me motivated.

Finally, be true to yourself and use art as a vehicle to tell the world a story. Find what is in your heart and develop your own personal style while expressing yourself. I like to think my art is more than just home décor, that it is actually speaking to someone. Does that sound cheesy? ☺

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Wonderful and different. You must come to Michelle's shop and see her work. Leave a comment here and share what you think

FEATURED ARTIST

This week I want to feature a graphic artist that I have come across who has taken her design talent and written a children's book incorporating her art with a story about her little girl. This little girl is adopted. The book is the story of her adoption and her travels from China to the United States. The title of the book is Born from the Heart.

This is so special that I am foregoing my usual interview format to tell you what I have learned about this artist and this book. First of all, the book is, at the present time, self-published. Several publishers have expressed interest in the book but until one of them buys the rights to publish the book the artist, Barbara Lynn Greif, has had the book professionally printed from a book printer using off-set printing presses. As Ms. Greif told me, this book is not a computer generated, softbound glue up but a professionally typeset and press printed with a hard cover, saddle stitched binding. The book is of the quality that you will find at any bookstore.

Ms. Greif tells me that she drew and colored each illustration and wrote the story. She said that it was a story that she had to tell and share. This is a child that she did not give birth to the usual way but this child is born from her heart - an emotional experience as intense as if she had natural childbirth.

The book has been selling in local bookshops and children's stores. Ms. Greif wanted to expand distribution of the book and opened a shop on Etsy. This is a unique shop and right now only sells this book and nothing else. Ms. Grief is autographing each book that she sells on Etsy.



The story is enduring, cute, and funny. There is an encounter in the book between this little girl (who Ms. Greif tells me came to her family at 15 months) and a pregnant woman in a department store that is very funny. She tells me that this really happened.

Ms. Greif hopes that anyone with an adopted child or who is thinking of adopting a child will read her book. The book is perfect to teach children about adoption. Schools and religious groups will find this book a welcome addition to their library for children.

I highly recommend BORN FROM THE HEART and hope that you will visit Barbara Greif's Etsy shop and see the quality of the book and its illustrations - and make a purchase!

Featured Artist

This featured artist is in Canada and she makes beautiful creations that are useful as much as they are pretty. Come and meet -



Here is our interview with the artist, Beth -

Briefly describe what you make?

I hand paint household objects everything from telephones to toilet seats.I love taking boring everyday household items and giving them beauty.I also paint on canvas,my favorite things to paint are butterflies,birds,spiders,animal prints and silhouettes of people.I am working on some canvas paintings right now that will be added to my Etsy shop soon.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I use mainly acrylic paint,enamel or fabric depending on the surface i am working on.Because i paint on so many different things i have a very,very large paint cupboard as most items have their own type of paint to be used.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been painting for about 7 years on and off.

How did you get started?

I have always envisioned how something would look painted from the time i was young,i would see background color and all the different shades in my head.I have always had a great love for art,but did not attempt to paint until about 7 years ago.I am a self taught painter and think it shows when i paint on canvas as i break every rule to painting there probly ever was.But it does make my work unique.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My shop name CanadianCreationz Canadian-i am canadian Creationz-i create it was the first name that popped in my head when i was thinking up a name and i just thought it had a nice flow to it.

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

I love what i do and get the greatest enjoyment out of every second.When i am painting i am truly happy.Creating my new ideas or even someone elses gives me great pleasure,and i always love a new challenge.I paint household items for fun and i paint most of my canvas pictures more seriously,but still get the same satisfaction in the end result.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

The first thing i ever officially attempted painting on as an artist was a pickle jar,i used dollar store brushes and paint and it looked quite awful when i was finished.But i loved how the brush flowed the paint almost as if straight from my thoughts.My mind opened so wide i felt as is i had found a whole new world.And i had,creating is a world of its own no matter what it is you make its the most wonderful way to express yourself.I still have my ugly painted pickle jar and will keep it always to remind myself as long as i love what i am doing it is all worth it.The most important thing is to enjoy yourself.

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Now, go and look at Beth's great SHOP!

Featured Artist

This artist is multi-talented and offers a variety of work in her shop!



Come meet Amberafternoon!

Briefly describe what you make?

I'm an Artist who creates Traditional Art, Art Jewelry, and Crafts. My true passion is creating Oil Paintings and Watercolor Paintings. I also enjoy doing Printmaking, which includes Lithography, Intaglio, and Relief Printmaking "Woodcuts." The Victorian age has always fascinated me and I have adopted the lost Art of Embroidery. I'm currently working with embroidery floss and ribbon to create Fiber Art pieces.


What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Oils, Watercolors, and Ink. The Impressionists have been a big influence on my painting. German Expressionism has influenced my Printmaking. I try to push myself to work in various styles using different techniques. Sometimes it feels really uncomfortable. I have to step away from the finished piece for awhile, then look it over again later. The end result usually surprises even me. Some of my best work has been derived like this.


How long have you been creating craft?

I've been creating Traditional Art and Crafts for as long as I can remember. Some of my earliest memories involve creating.

How did you get started?

Mud puddles provided my first source of inspiration. I think that as soon as I could walk I was making mud paintings.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I've always been inspired by the reflections of Autumn light streaming through windows. I like to play up Light in my paintings.


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

It takes a long time to create! I usually add lots of intricate details to my work. I have so many different interests that I never run out of ideas or inspiration.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Do what you love.


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Come and see the great things in this SHOP!

And while you are at ETSY, please stop by at Q BRANCH LTD. and PAST PERFECT!

Featured Artist

This featured artist makes pins buttons, light switch plates and other cute things. Come visit with



Here is our interview with Joanna -

Describe what you make?

I specialize in creating cute cartoony characters. I then feature these characters on prints, pins, magnets, light switch covers, and clothing (coming soon!). My inspiration comes from cartoon shows such as PowerPuff Girls, Dexter's Lab and Invader Zim. I also absolutely LOVE the 50s retro way of illustrating.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I start with good old pencil (or pen) and paper. I then scan in my rough draft and go digital. I use a combination of Flash and Photoshop to get just the right look. Sometimes my roughs come from Post-It art doodles that i mindlessly draw on all the time.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been drawing ever since i can remember. I've been selling my art for about three years. I started with the light switch covers, then slowly started making everything else.

How did you get started?

My mom is a painter- so she introduced me to art at a very young age. A couple years ago i was browsing the internet and randomly found Etsy. This was one of the best finds ever for me! As i was looking around, i got inspired to get my own prints made. The rest is history!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

It's my name!

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

I try my best to make fun designs. I am always creating, and always open to new ideas. If anyone has an idea for a character to be done in my style, let me know. Ideas inspire me to create more!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Try to make at least 1 creative thing per day. Getting stuck in ruts sometimes happens. The only way out is to [in my case] draw! Even if nothing comes to mind- a scribble is still art!

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You must see her great things at her shop on Etsy! They are adorable!

Featured Artist

Our featured artist sculpts in Fabric and what she creates is fabulous! Come and meet



Here is our interview with Donna -

Briefly describe what you make?

I design and create one-of-a-kind, fiber fantasy sculptures in the form of fairies, mermaids, sea nymphs riding their magical fish, fairy face pins, magical witches, butterflies, fairy scenes, leaf spirits, and whatever else pops into my imagination!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

My favorite medium is "fabric" and "fibers" because I love the warmth and texture that these mediums provide. I especially love using silk, which I hand-dye and hand-paint using silk fabric dyes. It allows me to come up with one-of-a-kind colors and patterns. The many wonderful, colorful yarns available allows me to come up with some pretty wild hairdos for my creations!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been designing and creating, and selling my sculptures for a little over 10 years.

How did you get started?

I always liked to create things out of fabric, especially when our daughter was little. I started out making cloth dolls, and designed all their clothes, and drew on the faces. After I started getting into craft shows and selling my work there, my work evolved over the years to my current whimiscal designs, which I now sell at art shows in my area, my web page, and on Etsy.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I came up with the name DZFANTASY because DZ are my initials and I am totally into "fantasy".

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

I would want them to know that each creation was created with a lot of love, with the hopes that it will bring a bit of joy into the lives of whoever may own them.


What words of advice do you have for other artists?

If you truly love what you are creating, don't ever give up and be discouraged if you don't happen to be selling as much as you would like. Keep on creating what makes you happy! Also feel happy and blessed that you have this creativity within you to share with others.

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Wow! You have got to see these sculptures! Go right now and visit Donna's shop!

While you are at Etsy please come see the new photographs at PAST PERFECT!

Featured Artist

This artist has a shop with a funny name but she makes very nice greeting cards. Come and meet Steph from



Here is our interview with Steph!

Describe what you make?

I make greeting cards, mini albums, and decorated wood letters.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

All of my items share an element of paper. I love how so many designs exist as to match any mood or occasion. While I have dabbled in several things from pottery to knitting, I think I've found my niche.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've loved crafts since I was little. But my paper crafting as it is today started in 2002. It has been evolving since then.

How did you get started?

I was recently married, and wanted to start documenting and scrapbooking our pictures, so I began putting them together in a "glorified photo album" The fancy papers, dicut machine and embellishments eventually were added to the mix.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I gave myself the screen name of "So-Cal-Mommy" when we lived in Southern California. When we moved, it didn't work any more, but I realized that quite often I do feel like a "So-Called-Mommy" as we all figure out our roles in our family here.

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

That I enjoy doing it. I love creating things that make me smile, and that can make other people smile too.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Find your niche in what you love, but never stop learning about it. Learn new techniques (or create them yourself!) and continue evolving as an artist.

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Steph has some very nice things for you to see at her shop.


While you are visiting Steph come on over to PAST PERFECT and see our new selection of note cards - sold in sets of four. Each card with a striking photo. There is an assortment for women and one for men.

Featured Artist

Our featured artist makes wonderful greeting cards. Come meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Peggy -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make handcrafted greeting cards for many occasions. I also do special orders for invitations and list gift tags.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love to stamp. I usually make my stamps 3 dimensional and watercolor them for a soft effect. I always add glitter for a little sparkle! I am a glitter-aholic!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been making cards for almost 8 years now. It has been a growing hobby for me and now is a lucrative passion.

How did you get started?

I started making cards when one of my best friends asked me to help her with her wedding invitations. I loved it so much that I ran out to buy my own supplies. I have definitely improved over the years but I still try new things all the time!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Last year I participated in a large Christmas bazaar. The application asked for a booth name and after much contemplation, Beautiful Greetings was born.

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

I make each card completely unique. My cards are never exactly the same unless ordered that way. I always add something extra to my cards such as 3-d characters, hardware, ribbon and of course glitter!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Nothing feels better than selling your craft, especially if you love making them. Knowing that others love your work as much as you do is so fulfilling!

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Wonderful. Please be sure to visit Peggy at her SHOP!

While you are at ETSY there are some wonderful new fine art photo prints for you to see at PASTPERFECT.

Featured Artist

Our artist is a glass artist. Working in glass always intrigues me. A friend once told me that you can always tell a glass artist by the bandaids on her fingers. I don't know if our featured artist has any bandaids, but her work is beautiful. Come meet Carrie of




Here is our interview with Carrie -

Briefly describe what you make?

I create custom leaded stained glass windows, hanging panels, cabinet inserts, and many various smaller gift items such as mirrors, candle holders, picture frames jewelry boxes, sun catchers, coasters, and many more things.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I am first an artist using various mediums, pencil, charcoal, watercolor,conte,I also started working with stained glass, but pride myself on not using other people's patterns. Most of my pieces are unique, created by me unless a client wants otherwise.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been working with stained glass for 11 years.

How did you get started?

I lived on the east coast, and my husband built this fabulous wine cellar with bricks from a demolished 1817 building in New Bedford. We wanted a window for the cellar, went around trying to find one when I decided i wanted to make my own. I took classes in Boston and the rest is history! I loved creating so much, I had to start selling some in order to afford to buy materials to make more. I started doing craft fairs, finally along with a good friend, we had our own Christmas gift show every year and word of mouth spread. I worked with builders and interior designers. I only did commissioned work from then on. I've since moved and now have to start over to establish myself in a new market that already has stained glass studios.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Instead of Designed with Class, I substituted Glass.
What would you most want people to know about your work?

It's all created with the utmost care and with no shortcuts, If I don't think a piece looks good, I'll re-do it. All my designs are one-of-a-kind. I love to work with in peoples budget so they can have what they want.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Just to keep doing what you love, try to have a lot of self-confidence, be able to take rejection, not everyone will love your work. That's what makes us so unique! Do what makes you happy first then worry about the money, otherwise, you'll grow to despise your craft.

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Great! You have got to see Carrie's work. Come visit her Etsy Shop

I also invite you to come see my newly, redesigned site, Pop Goes the Needle
It features an art medium that many of you are probably not familiar with. Come take a look!

Featured Artist

We have an illustrator to introduce you to - and she will be appearing on television in 2008 on HGTV! Let me introduce you to





Here is our interview with the artist -

Briefly describe what you make?

I create colorful children's illustrations, unique plush characters, and humorous bee ornaments.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

All of my paintings are in gouache. For me, it's an easy medium to work with, and I love the intensity of the colors. I also enjoy working with different fabrics, polymer clay, and acrylics.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been crafting in some form or another my entire life! My mother is extremely crafty. She's dabbled in nearly everything from quilting to book-making, so she was able to keep me and my sister busy with projects when we were growing up. I also started writing and illustrating little stories on scrap paper when I was 6 or 7.

How did you get started?

I have a BFA in illustration from Rhode Island School of Design. In college, I took a couple sewing and apparel-related wintersession courses. That was probably what led me into experimenting more with more 3-D work in my illustration classes. After graduation, I started making quirky little objects and stuffed animals as gifts for friends. It just sort of expanded until I became involved in RISD Alumni Art Sales, and eventually began selling online.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

It's pretty uncomplicated, actually! "Honeydew" is the name of the color I painted my studio.

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

With the obvious exception of prints, every single thing I create is 100% hand-made and hand-painted. Even when I recreate a popular item (like a particular stuffed animal, for example), no two items are ever exactly alike.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Loving what you do has to be your driving force. The market is absolutely saturated with talented artists, and it can be really hard to get noticed. Don't give up and promote, promote, promote! The more you get yourself out there, the easier it will be to people to find you. Networking with fellow artists and craftspeople is really helpful too. It gives you the support you need and a great community for feedback.

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That is great and so is the work! Make sure to keep looking at HGTV's "That's Clever" to see this artist. And don't forget to visit this shop at Etsy!

While you are at Etsy you must see the new photos that I am offering in my shop.

Featured Artist

This is an interview with a felt artist. I find this work fascinating and it is something that I would personally love to try. Here is our interview with the artist, Tara of




Describe what you make?

I'm a fiber artist who makes all things felt and functional. Felt is made from taking wool fibers and rubbing them together to create a durable fabric material.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Wool of course! But I also love paper. There are so many cool types of paper out there now a days. I love to visit my local scrap booking store and just unload money on paper for no reason. I hope to one day open another etsy paper shop.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been creating since conception it seems. I have experimented with all sorts of mediums from, watercolor, pencil drawings, clay, jewlery, copper sculptures. The list goes on and on.

How did you get started?

Felting was a accident. I decided that a purse I crocheted from wool needed washed. And so out came my purse from the wash 10 times smaller and very thick. I wasn't sure what was going on till I told my mom and she said that I felted my purse. I googled the term and the rest is history. I was hooked ever since.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Project Felt actually wasn't my original etsy shop name. When I first signed up for etsy my name was funky by tara. I sorta grew out of that name and decided I wanted something a little more professional. I redesiged my whole image, products, pictures, everything. People always ask me what I'm doing and I would always say " I working on a project" and so that's where Project Felt came from.


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

The time it takes to make. I'm not the fastest crocheter in the world and I'm not the slowest either. But what people don't realize is when you felt something, it shrinks ( a lot) so this means that you have to crochet a peice about three times the final size before you felt it. It takes time. Not to mention the three to four washing cycles it takes to actually get a good felted piece

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't give up. There is always someone out there who will fall in love with your craft. Knowone said that thinking outside the box or even being different was easy. Starting a business isn't easy. Marketing isn't easy and if you think so then you better ask to be pinched because you are sadly mistaken. I work my butt off. I have a dream and goals in mind. I encourage all crafters who want to make a business doing what they love to never give up. And most of all don't give up on yourself.

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Tara has some great things in her shop
You must come and see her work!

Featured Artist

We are featuring another glass artist. This glass artist specializes in making glass beads. These beads are beautiful - and while intended to be added to jewelry creations, each of these beads stands out as a piece of art on its own! Come with me to speak with the artist, Michael at his shop -



Describe what you make?

I love working with glass. I make beads using a technique known as lampworking. It is the oldest form of glassblowing that dates back as early as Mesopotamia.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I use glass, silver, copper, platinum, and CZs.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been working with molten glass about 2 years.

How did you get started?

15 years ago I bought all the equipment, but i was in college. My roommate couldn't believe that I left several hundreds of dollars worth of equipment sitting in the basement and started teaching himself. He spent 7 to 10 years learning and I watched. Two years ago, I took a break from fiber arts to play with the torch. I have been hooked ever since.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Because I feel Carl (Flamekist) has established master status, I frequently saw myself as his Protege, thus the name.

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

I am always striving for growth. I feel that I can only get better. I take care to make sure that the work I put out there is quality.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't be your worst critic. If you don't like something you have done, put it away for a while. You might be surprised by what you have created if you take a step back. I give work away all the time that I felt was disappointing, only to see it later and wish i hadn't!
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There you have it! This is a great shop. You must see this beautiful glass work! Please visit Protege.

Featured Artist

Our featured artist is eclectic in what she offers in her shop - much like our shop. She has some great things to offer and some interesting things to say. Here is our interview with the artist, Gwynne.

Briefly describe what you make?

In my shop, you will find many different items! I have original drawings, prints, cards, t-shirts, messenger and tote bags, and jewelry. I enjoy drawing more than anything because it is my therapy and I love to see what my illustration becomes when I complete it. When I begin to draw, I usually do not have a theme in mind and just start drawing with my Sharpies or Prismacolor markers. I have dealt with depression on and off and this is why my art is so important to me. By being able to create something gives me some peace and relief from the struggles I have had with depression.
What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I prefer to use Sharpies and Prismacolor more than anything! Although, I recently have been purchasing numerous jewelry supplies to begin creating jewelry. I will feature vintage and retro jewelry in my shop soon! Many sellers would open a second shop for this, but, I have decided to keep everything in one shop to show the different sides of my art and of me.
How long have you been creating craft?

When I was a child, I began creating and knew that my dream for the future was to be an artist. My degree is a B.A. in Art although, I was raised to consider a career that would help support me financially. When I graduated, I began a job in sales and continued in sales for many years. Over the years, I continued to create...mostly when in a depression and then recently decided to share my art with others when I found Etsy.

How did you get started?

I left a job in May after 18 years and decided it was time to live my dream and that is when I began posting my art on Etsy. For several years, I kept telling friends..."I am going to start selling my art" yet, I kept putting it off. I am thankful that I found Etsy when I was looking for something to buy several months before I began selling.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

PenGwynne Art is a name I came up with several years ago when I was telling everyone I was going to start selling my art. My name is Gwynne and when I was in junior high someone asked me "Do you have a pen Gwynne?" and then they noticed that (pen Gwynne) was like penguin so,from that my nickname became pengwynne! My Mom even started me a penguin collection. And the best part of it all is I draw with pens!
What would you most want people to know about your work?

My work is my therapy, as I stated earlier, and it has truly been a blessing to be able to express myself through my drawing. I am a loner and enjoy being by myself. My art is a result of different things I have gone through over the years. Some of the work in my shop is from 2003 when I was in a very depressed state. I remember creating over 110 drawings within about a 3 to 4 month period. I still have many pieces I have not added to my shop from that time. I guess what I want people to know about me through my work is that I have survived some tough times and without my art, I am not sure if I would have.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice to other artists is to live your dream! Do not be afraid to create what is in your mind. It may not be something everyone loves, but, it is something that you have created and it is a piece of you. If you suffer from frustration, anxiety, depression, etc. your art is your best therapy!


Wonderful! Please be sure to visit Gwynne's shop!