FEATURED ARTIST

We have a fiber artist to feature. Come and meet -




Here is our interview with the artist, Joyce -

Briefly describe what you make?

I am a crocheter. I make crochet items for babies, kids, teens, men, women, whomever! :) Right at the moment, my shop is filled with mainly baby and toddler hats, but I'm hoping to expand quite a bit on that and also offer patterns in the near future.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Yarn! LOL. Lately my favorite has been cottons, probably just because it's been VERY warm here in New England this summer and anything heavier seems too much at the moment. I cannot wait for fall though, and add some of the warm, fuzzy, cuddly yarns to my creations!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have actually been crocheting off and on for almost 20 years!

How did you get started?

My grandmother taught me when I was younger, and I would obsessively crochet for a few months and then put it down again. This went on for a few years until I recently made a baby sweater and hat set as a baby shower gift. My two aunts own a craft store, and begged me to make more to sell at their store. So that went great, and I'm trying to keep up with keeping THAT store stocked. Then I posted a few photos on my facebook page and a bunch of people wanted to order some! That's when I decided to open my Etsy shop. It just kind of has taken off from there and I HATE to have a day go by without my hook and yarn in my hands.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Well, the property we live at has a barn and I wanted to somehow work that into the name. My first choice was The Yarn Barn, but it appeared to be already taken. My next choice was The New England Hooker, but my husband was not crazy about that one! So "The Crochet Barn" was born.


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

I guess I would want people to know how much time and effort I truly put into each creation. I have a MILLION ideas for new items swimming around in my head, and hoping to find the time to make them a reality once my little one starts school in the fall. I would want customers to realize that they are getting a true quality item that will last YEARS and probably receive quite a few compliments!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

I think the best advice I ever got was to go with what you truly love and enjoy. In other words, don't just try to follow the "trends" of what seems to be popular and selling the best, because you will quickly get burned out. Do what you LOVE and it will show in your work.

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This is a nice shop. Come and take a look at Joyce's work and then come back here to leave a comment for her!

FEATURED ARTIST

We are back after the Holidays with another artist interview. Come and meet


Here is our interview with the artist, Sarah -

Briefly describe what you make?

I have fabric bookmarks and reusable gift bags in my shop, but I primarily create fabric flowers to be used as an accessory. My Esty shop is relatively new to me and so is this process of creating products to sell. So I am still finding myself and what it is I want to present to the world. Right now I am in the midst of a rainbow-licious project that will include quilts, placemats, bags and more.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love to work with fabric. The minute my mother gifted me with a sewing machine I was hooked. I love to draw, paint, take photographs and create will sorts of mediums, but I feel I can best offer people quality products of value through sewing.

How long have you been creating craft?

How long? Um...Can you count creating storybooks as a child? =) I'd say I started the love affair with sewing about 8 years ago.

How did you get started?

It all started one winter when I was home from college for Christmas. I was an Environmental Science major and young, which meant I thought I could save the world. Coincidently my mother was slowly taking over my room and was storing her sewing machine and fabric in there. I was inspired to sew dozens of cloth gift bags in order to cut down on the amount of wrapping paper we threw away every Christmas morning. It snowballed from there. Both my mother and mother in law now have hundreds of cloth bags for Christmas and other special occassions. I wanted to challenge myself to new projects and along came blankets and quilts. Now I just want to see how I can challenge fabric to mold into the images I see in my head.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I began to acrue more inventory than I could handle I knew it was time to start selling my products. I had just heard about Etsy on some blogs and thought this would be a great way to start. My friend and I brainstormed some shop names and she came up with Seamingly Sarah. It was perfect! I remain open to outside influences and offers of help because sometimes they are just what you need, a blessing.

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

I really want people to know that (a) I love to create with fabric, (b) I truly believe each product they receive from me is made with love, pure, true, love and (c) I intend to create products that can be used over and over again, cutting down on the waste we produce in this life.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Words of advice? This question scares me because I deal with my own inner battle that I am a good enough artist. A large reason I started Seamingly Sarah was because I wanted to explore who I am as an artist and realize and accept my creativity - nourish and grow it. So the advice that has inspired me just to get started has been to (a) just do it, we have so many ideas go through our heads yet rarely follow through, take a step, even a small one, (b) only do it if you enjoy the process, don't get hung up on the results and (c) find a mantra to counter attack your deepest fears - mine is "I am a valuable artist"

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Great! Now go and see Sarah's shop and come back and leave a comment!

FEATURED ARTIST

This artist has some wonderful things for the tots! Come and meet


Here is our interview with the artist, Gwen -

Briefly describe what you make?

I design and sew blanket dolls for babies and small children. They can also be called loveys. Blanket dolls have been widely used in Europe as a comforting toy for babies. The idea is that mom sleeps with the doll for a few days and the fabric will absorb her scent. Then when baby is snuggling with the doll it can smell the comforting and familiar scent of the mother and it will soothe the baby by letting it know that mom is near.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Ever since I saw minky fabrics for the first time I have been hooked. The softness and texture of the fabric is just perfect for baby items. I have made so many minky blankets for my two babies and for friends. I just can’t get enough of that fabric. I’ve always been tempted to make a large blanket for myself, but somehow I just have not gotten around to it yet.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been crafting for as long as I can remember. My mother always did little craft projects with my sister and I growing up. We mostly made little clothes for our dolls and as we got older we stared to make furniture for our dollhouse. I also had a wonderful grandmother how was patient and taught me how to knit and crochet when I was really young. Most of my crafting has always revolved around sewing or knitting. I have somewhat turned my love for creating and designing into my full time job. I have been working as an architect for the last 10 years and love what I do. It is another creative outlet for me, granted the materials used are not as soft, but I get the same satisfaction from my day job as I do from crafting.

How did you get started?

I got started with my Etsy shop just a couple of months ago, back in May. I’ve been browsing Etsy for the last 3 years and always thought that one day I would love to open my own shop. But being a brand new working mother I just couldn’t believe I’d somehow be able to manage my time well enough to pull of
such a big endeavor.

When my second daughter was about 9 months old I just had this urge to design her a doll that she could cuddle with at night. She was having a terrible time sleeping through the night and I thought that if she had a truly snuggly companion to hold on to it might help her. My husband and I also noticed that she was never able to find her pacifier in her crib in the dark, so I wanted this doll to help with that problem as well. I worked on several different prototypes and after a couple of months and a lot of input from family and friends I arrived at the Blossom Baby doll which is currently featured in my Etsy shop. I made a few of these dolls for my friends’ babies as well and everyone seemed to really like them. Especially the babies! Mabel immediately took to her Blossom Baby and by tying her pacifier to the feelers of her doll we have been able to enjoy long sleep-filled nights.

After having some success with my daughter and with friends, my sister encouraged me to look into starting my own Etsy store and I decided to just go for it. It has been a huge learning experience. Designing and sewing the dolls is the easy part for me. Setting up and promoting the store has been a wonderful challenge. I am constantly trying to improve the doll as well as my shop and am now working on a new product that I am hoping to start selling in August. I will also be adding new blanket dolls to my shop where the flower hat will be replaced with a star hat, the new Star Snuggles.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop “Mabelise” was inspired by my two beautiful little girls, Mabel who is just about to turn 2 and Elise who will be 5 years old soon. Initially I thought about naming the shop “Elise and Mabel” but after kicking around some other ideas with my sister, we came up with Mabelise. My husband was very opposed to this name in the beginning because it is just so similar to Maybelline but I simply loved that with one name I could dedicate my work to both of my children. Especially since the doll was originally designed for them. Elise has her own doll as well that she is really fond of.

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

Making these dolls has truly been a labor of love for me. I have invested so much heart and soul into these little creatures and love the idea that somewhere out there another baby or child may be comforted by one of my dolls. Every doll is completely handmade. The production of these dolls is partly done on my Singer sewing machine and partly by hand stitching. The faces are all individually embroidered by hand and I feel that in turn each doll has it’s own personality and each one is unique.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice for other artists is to simply follow your passion. There are so many amazing shops in the Etsy community and so many talented artists who are just inspiring. Even if their medium is completely different from mine, seeing their artwork just encourages me to keep going. Opening and running a successful store on Etsy takes a lot of time and energy and patience. I am a very new shop owner myself and still have very far to go, but there is so much help out there in the community. Etsy is a great place to showcase your artwork and your craft, but it does take a lot of hard work. As I mentioned earlier, for me the hard part is not making my dolls, but it is running my Etsy shop itself. I think as long as you are able to take the time to learn all the different aspects of running and promoting a shop you can have a successful shop. The one thing that I never really considered when I started was how difficult it can be to achieve great photos of my items. It is the number one thing that I am trying to improve. Since no one is ever able to actually touch and feel my dolls, I need the pictures to really show off my items. So I guess besides following your passion, if you are considering opening up your own Etsy shop, learn to become a great photographer.

How do you comply with the CPSIA requirements for children’s products?

All my products are made from materials that are on the exempt list for lead testing. I am required, however, to have sewn on labels on my items for tracking purposes. These labels contain my brand name and website, the materials used, care instructions, and date and place of manufacture. Currently I make those labels myself with approved fabric and inks.

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Great interview! Please come and look at what Gwen has in her shop! They make great gifts!

FEATURED ARTIST

Here is a great gift idea. Come and meet

Here is our interview with the artist, Stacy -

Briefly describe what you make?

Socks. I have two main flavors that I have listed in my shop: tabi (traditional Japanese, split-toe socks) and my Simple Luxury line.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy working with natural fiber yarns. There are some synthetics that work well for me and my current focus, but I really find the most inspiration and pleasure working with fiber from animals, be it common wool or luscious cashmere or alpaca. There's just something about the way it handles and suits itself to socks that appeals to me.

There are some amazing synthetics and alternatives to natural fibers for those who are vegan, allergic/sensitive, or just want something else, so don't think I'm putting down those fibers. Just a personal preference for my current production. :)

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been creating since I was tiny. My mother is an amazing craftswoman, and made all of our clothes growing up, from jeans to sweaters to underwear. There's nothing she can't do, if she decides to take the time to try. From my earliest memories, I remember making modeling clay sculptures, learning how to decorate Easter eggs, helping her with her baking, and drinking straw and card towers.

How did you get started?

I started knitting at around age 9. My mom gave up her knitting for other pursuits a few years before, so I had an heirloom collection of knitting needles (some over 100 years old!) and patterns and books to start. I taught myself, and my mom helped me out when I needed it. I've taken breaks from it, and really picked it back up again about seven years ago.

Socks became my focus as I tried to eliminate my husband and father from stuffing their regular socks into flip flops, and I haven't looked back. I sold them at craft shows and fairs for a few years, but developed health problems, moved, and wasn't able to get back into that sort of production. I started my own website and Etsy shop a little over a year ago, and have found it a great way to maintain my older clients and find new ones without the physical demands.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I don't really know, to be honest! When I first toyed with selling my socks, it's the name that popped into my head and stuck. I wanted a name that related to feet without being totally foot oriented, and thought it was cute and quirky and fit with my theme pretty well.

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

I've found that a lot of people shy away from my products because of my primary use of natural fibers. There's a pretty common feeling that natural fibers are hard to care for and super picky, but there's a natural fiber (or fiber blend) out there for every lifestyle and care regimen. I try to link my easy peasy instructions for washing my socks in my listings, and I've had people try out wool for the first time and that makes me happy. :)

I'd also like people to give a pair of handmade socks a try. I hear a lot of '$50 for socks? I can buy 10 pairs at for half that!', and I'd almost like to hand those people a pair with the instructions to wear them a week and report back. Not everyone likes, appreciates, or cares about the difference, but I like to think that you can feel the warmth from the creator in each pair. There's a common line out there that says that handmade socks are like hugs for your feet, and I truly believe that. Besides, where else can you get socks knit to fit your foot specifically?

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

At least once, try one thing at a time and experiment within that area, rather than bouncing from new thing to new thing. I used to feel like I was most creative and had the best ideas when I bounced from craft to craft, but I've found that I can be more creative when I spend time focused in a more narrow area. Experiment with colors, textures, and patterns and you might find a new path to take.

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Nice! Now, come and look!

FEATURED ARTIST

We are featuring a fiber artist. Come and meet


Here is our interview with the artist, Diane:

Briefly describe what you make?

Figuratively? I make people laugh (I hope). Literally, I crochet all sorts of items- hats, scarves, mug cozies, ipod cases, etc, etc. I love yarn, bright colors, and have a short attention span. So crochet ticked all the boxes.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

As stated, I love yarn. So in addition to crochet I also knit. However I like calling myself a hooker which is why crochet took the top spot. Aside from crochet I very lightly dabble in photography and painting.

How long have you been creating craft?

I'm not what you would consider a crafty person. For example, I buy all the stuff to make an awesome scrapbook of a summer vacation and then it just sits there gathering dust. That being said, I enjoy making things. The universe says you can't make stuff. It all exists and we just manipulate the atoms. But when I take a ball of yarn and make it into something you can wear or use, well, it's as close to being a god as I'm ever going to get.

How did you get started?

A neighbor taught me to knit when I was about 10. I thought it was cool that I could carry around sharp, pointy sticks. I learned to crochet a little over a year ago. From the moment I learned I was hooked (pun intended).

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I was learning to crochet I had a day job I dreaded. By dread I mean every fiber of my being turned to stone the moment I pulled into the parking lot of my office. I could barely get down the side walk. It was like walking through peanut butter to force myself to show up. Crochet was/is a stress relief and it was not work. It was pure pleasure. So my shop is KnotWork, meaning no matter how busy I get or how frustrating it can be, it is still not work to me in the literal sense.

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

For those who crochet or knit you understand the time it takes. The items may seem costly to many because our society simply doesn't value yarn. And while our materials may cost less than say the silver wire to wrap around a lovely bead- it is our time and expertise you are paying for. So many people think they can knit or crochet. And yes, many people can with lots of practice. But we've already practiced and perfected and we sat there for three hours making that hat. Please remember that when you're distracted by those shiny beads at the table next to ours at a craft show. :)

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Decide whether this is simply an art/hobby or a business. If it's a business then you should keep trying new things and see what sells. If it's a hobby, or your art, keep trying new things if you want to be challenged. But don't stubbornly stick to what you like and wonder why no one else wants to buy it. However, always make sure that your personality comes through in your work as that is what makes you truly unique.

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Great interview! And some great items just in time for holiday shopping! Go and check out Diane's shop. Then come on back and leave a comment!

FEATURED ARTIST

We have a fiber artist to meet - come and say hello to:



Here is our interview with the artist, Grace -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make hand-crocheted items including fashion accessories, appliques, housewares etc. The reason I make such a wide variety of products is because crocheting, for me, is so much more than just a way to make money listing random stuff...it's an art. Just like an artist never paints the same thing twice I don't like to only make the same thing over and over. Everything in my shop is made with a lot of thought.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love working with cotton! It's so strong and sturdy. It also comes in so many bright, bold colors that the possibilities are endless. I also love working with other natural fibers such as wool, bamboo and alpaca although items made from those fibers have not been added to my shop yet. But...fear not...more fun fibers are soon to come. :)

How long have you been creating craft?

Well, I've been creating things since I was old enough to hold a crayon. When it comes to crocheting I have been stitching for 3 years now. Once I set my mind to learning something new there's no stopping me; I have been able to learn so many techniques, tips, and patterns in the last 3 years. :)

How did you get started?

I got started when my Mom bought a how-to-crochet book and showed it to me. I had wanted to learn how to crochet and this book had such wonderful illustrations and directions. I learned how to make my first granny square the day I learned to crochet.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My Dad is actually the one who came up with the name (he's the best). I was homeschooled during the vast majority of my school career so I was trying to find a word that included "home" somehow; something that communicated the fact that I was brought up at home. The fact that I work with yarn made the word "Homespun" just totally made sense. It combined the homeschool and yarn factor. The word "Handmaiden" is a pretty word that referred to my love to serve my family and God. It also included "handmade" only spelled differently. So...needless to say there's a lot of meaning in my name and I just love it (and it's all thanks to my great dad).

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

Every stitch is made by me with great love and care. I am really picky about my work being absolutely perfect. So if I am a few rows into a scarf, for example, and I see that there's a stitch that's a little bulky and uneven, I will unravel what I just did and fix that one stitch. I care very much about quality and bringing back some of the forgotten arts and crafts. There's a lot to be said about those time-intensive crafts that all of our grandmothers knew how to do, learning them ourselves, and taking them to the next level...making them appealing to this generation and generations to come.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't be tempted to follow trends. If there's something on Etsy that's really popular and you happen to love it then go for it! :) But don't try to go along with a trend just because it's a trend. Popular themes come and go; colors, animals, etc. but a unique style is something that you can truly claim as your own.

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Great interview! Come and see Grace's work and then come on back and leave a comment of appreciation!

FEATURED ARTIST

Here is an artist that creates new things from old. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Jennifer -

Briefly describe what you make?

I have a line of clothing and gifts made with vintage linens, sterling and other fun things from the past. My "tag line" is - Through our collecting we pass on the linens of our mothers & grandmothers to our daughters & grand daughters.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I start with 100% cotton dresses, shirts, onesies and then add all different types of vintage linens : handkerchieves, chenille bed covers, table runners, doilies, etc

How long have you been creating craft?

I think I started my first company in grade school - i made button covers and sold them at my chirch gift shop. I have had some sort of "thing" going my whole life. My grandmother (who will be 90 in Sept) started sewing as a child, she taught my mom, and my mom saught me when I was 12. Southern Yankee is the first business that has taken hold!

How did you get started?

I studied Fashion at Texas Tech University, so I am "formally" trained. But it was my first Christmas as a newly wed that started Southern Yankee. I made our chirstmas card and mo co-workers loved it and said I should sell them. It just happened a sorority sister (ZTA) of mine was opening a Papyrus Stationery in NYC, so I started making greeing cards in 1999. I was also collecting vintage handkerchiefs at that time, to make blankets... well the rest, as they say, is history!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I was starting my company, my mom asked " what best describes you?" I was born and raised in Dallas, TX and marries a "yankee".

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

That I love doing it! it is my creative outlet in my crazy little world (my kids are 9, 5 & 3!) My favorite thing is doing shows and seeing peoples reactions to my dresses!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Go for it! life is too short to have regrets! Even if it is just a hobby or a corner in the kitchen, do what makes you feel good!


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Great interview. Nice work. Come see Jennifer's creations!

So Many Just Don't Know

I have written about CPSIA - the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 before. See this article. This law was passed almost two years ago in August and has been in full effect now for some time. This law effects every craftsperson and artist who works in children's themed craft or art. Anything made to be used of for a child under the age of 12 comes under this law.

Now, I am not going to write another article telling you about this law, but I am going to tell you about my amazement that no one still knows that this law even exists. With the exception of the craft artists that are active on the Internet, no one else knows. Crafts artists don't know. Consumers don't know. The media - newspapers, television, and radio - does not seem to know.

This past weekend we were at a very high class art show - visiting, not selling. The show featured fine art and also high end craft. One of the craftsmen there was selling children's furnishings, toys, etc. All handmade of wood and painted. Now the wood is not a problem under this law, as long as the wood is not finished or coated in any way. This wood was painted and therein lies the problem. The paint is not permitted under the law without extensive and expensive testing. And the testing process for the most part is prohibitive to those selling craft.

There is also a labeling requirement in this law. Every children's item must be labeled permanently in a certain way. Was any of this fine work for children labeled? No. Was this craft artist ignoring the law. No. He knew nothing at all about the law and neither did the people who were buying from him.

Even commercial items for children under 12 that are supposed to now all be labeled to be in compliance with the law are not. Many, many retail stores have new inventory on their shelves without the required and specific label. While large retailers may be very much aware of what they risk and have decided not to sell anything out of compliance, many small businesses, like everyone else, have no idea about CPSIA.

This is just amazing. Why is this law kept such a big secret? It is like saying that now everyone must stop at a red light but not tell anyone. What can be done about it? Frankly, I don't know. I do know that this law needs to be drastically changed and amended or at best repealed and rewritten to be responsible legislation. But that is not going to happen. But at least, while everyone that is involved with making or selling children's items must comply with this law, tell people about it.

Just my observations...

FEATURED ARTIST

Things for the little ones - so cute. Come and let me introduce you to this Canadian shop and artist -


Here is our interview with the artist, Savannah

Briefly describe what you make?

My products are geared to baby and mom accessories. My favourite items to make are sock monkeys, and I've also introduced sock cows to the mix. I make them using regular polyester socks and soft fuzzy socks (so cuddly!). I also make smaller items for babies such as bibs, personalized soother straps (my favourite is the one with the slogan "Sucker...", though I can't take credit for the idea; it was my husband's), baby hair clips and headbands, and baby legwarmers, to name a few. I have stuff for Mom too, because all Moms deserve a treat. I offer business card holders, headbands, and some crafting supplies, with new items to come. (I just made myself a bag using a pair of Old Navy pants and will be soon making these for my shop as well!)

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy working with fabric the most. I love all the patterns and colours and textures you can work with all in the same project. You can make the same thing with 2 different fabrics and the style and attitude of the item becomes totally new and unique! I love starting out with a flat piece of fabric and ended up with a cute or stylish or sassy item that has personality. I love watching it take shape with each seam. I also love making things out of something that was totally different, like the sock animals. One minute, they're a pair of socks that albeit cute, will be worn and scuffed on the floor and become "nothing special." A few seams later, it's a cute, soft, cuddly friend for a young child and will likely be named, go on car rides, have tea parties, or explore the jungle.

How long have you been creating craft?

I always like doing arts and crafts growing up, but I've only been sewing for a couple of years. I started making baby slings when my son (now 2) was a couple of months old when my commercial baby carrier was hurting my back and shoulders. After my daughter was born (she's 10 months now), I started making the sock monkeys and other items, and that's when I opened my Etsy shop. I love thinking of new things to make, or finding patterns of something I haven't tried before. I can be pretty stubborn about what I make. A new pattern might be difficult, and I might be calling my sewing machine names the entire time, but I need to conquer what I start or I'll feel defeated. Usually, it turns out well in the end (though not always the first...or second..attempt), though sometimes it doesn't turn out as well as I'd hoped and I may not make it again. But at least I tried, right?

How did you get started?

I actually started out on a different e-store site, but after a full year and no sales, I gave that up and tried out Etsy. I was a bit hesitant because I was afraid of losing money with the fees, but after making a few sales, even small ones, I realized that Etsy had so much to offer and the fees didn't touch a lot of my profit. I've enjoyed chat rooms since college, so I immediately foudn the chat rooms and made friends, as well as sales, in the rooms. I've gotten SO many tips and pieces of advice though the other Etsy chatters; they've really helped my develop my shop and are continuing to be a great resource as well as friends. I started reading Storque articles, and going to the virtual labs, and am slowly learning how to make my shop work better.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop actually came from when I was making only baby slings, when I first started (hence the baby bundle part). I added in the 'Boutique" just to make it sound more complete, and to open up the possibility of having other items in my shop. I'm glad I did, since now I only sell a couple of slings a year.

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

Wow, this question I had to think about the most. I want people to know that my work is made with love. Yes, it's cliche, but it's true. As I said before, I love picturing kids playing pretend with my sock animals. I love imagining babies wearing the bibs or hair clips I made. I like to imagine the comments people might get about my products. I also want people to know that my work is safe, of course. It's all made in a pet-free and smoke-free environment, and I only make things that I'd feel safe giving to my own kids. Most of my what I make in my shop, I've made for my own children too. These are difficult times, financially. I know how much work goes into earning dollars, and I want my customers to know that I value their money for what it means to them when I craft.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My first words of advice for other artists and crafters are to believe in yourself and your work! You put your heart into what you make; don't sell yourself short! Too often I see people under pricing their work in a desperate attempt to make sales, but it comes across as just that: desperate. Pay yourself fairly! Think of what goes into your products, and think about what you would pay for such an item from someone else. If you price too low, people might think your stuff is cheaply made.

When it comes to your shop, use your tags! All 14 of them. And use relevant tags. Words that you would put in a search engine looking for the same or similar items. Go to the virtual labs and forums, you'll find great advice there and can have your shop critiqued.

Most of all, craft because you love it. If you let it become a chore, it'll reflect in your work. If it's starting to get too stressful, I think it's better to take a short vacation from your shop, then to continue something you're not enjoying anymore and letting the negativity build. This is something you love! Don't let "business" steal that from you!

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Great interview! It is always a pleasure for an artist to share so much. You must come to Savannah's Etsy shop to see these cute things!

FEATURED ARTIST

We are getting back to our artist features and this is a knitter. I would like to introduce you to



Come meet the artist, Crystal -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make knitted photography props mainly for newborns. I do offer larger sizes in the hats but most of my listings are for newborn photography.
I knit beanies, Elf/Pixie hats, slings, cocoons, pods/bowls and I also offer organic dyed cheesecloth that can also be used as slings and wraps.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I would think, by far, my favorite would be handspun merino wool. It is such a wonderful thing to use when knitting and it's so soft. Some of my best yarns have come from Etsy fiber artists.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been knitting for a few years now. My mom taught me how to crochet when I was a little girl but I never really did anything with it. It wasn't until I started knitting that I actually got interested.

How did you get started?

I got started by coming to Etsy here and there looking for photo props of my own. I would look around but never really buy anything and then I realized that I could make the items I wanted on my own. I then started hats and cocoons for friends in my real life and also for photographers I had met online. I then realized that people actually wanted what I sold and I was urged to open up a shop on Etsy so the circle of photographers I associated with could pick and choose what they wanted and the business just branched off from there.


Where does the name of your shop come from?

Since all of my pieces are personal to me I also wanted my shop name to be personal. I wanted to incorporate my name in some way but I didn't want it to be my name.
My name is Crystal Katherine Connell
I took my initials "CKC" and came up with 'Country Knit Cocoon'. It was the first thing I came up with and it all worked so well together.
I do, indeed live out in the country (a little too far out). All of my items are knit and I make cocoons.

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

I would want people to know that although it is very time consuming it is what I love to do. Every piece is different even if it looks like one I've sold before. My knitting comes with me everywhere and it's nice to know that something I knit and put so much effort into is being loved by someone else. I absolutely love when I get a convo from a buyer and attached to it they have a photo of a sweet little baby either wearing it or in it (as in the slings and cocoons).

I love that it's all handmade by me while watching a good movie or while watching my own little ones playing in the yard or just being crazy in the house.
Just knowing that every piece is personal (to me at least) is what makes it all so worth it.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice would be to do what you love. If you do what you love the rest will come easy. If you do what you love the hard work does not seem so hard. That is how I look at it. Sometimes I have to step back for a minute and remember why I do this. I do it because I love it and when it comes to the point where I no longer love it I will stop doing it.

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Y9u must see the really nice work that Crystal does and it is all for sale at her online shop. Leave her a c0mment here in appreciation!

FEATURED ARTIST

Here is a fiber artist from Canada doing something a bit different. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Sarah

Briefly describe what you make?

I design and sew toys and accessories from recycled wools and cottons—plush dolls, mostly, mittens and pouches, all with hand-embroidery. The dolls, aka “Beasts” come in two sizes: the small ones (about 5” tall) fit snug in a hand and larger ones (about 10”) tuck nicely under an arm.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I’m a scavenger at heart (part hawk, I figure) and love upcycled textiles. I find 100% wool sweaters from thrift shops and shrink them. Cotton flosses and wool yarns are for ornamental embroidery. I avoid synthetics and polyesters as much as possible. Friends drop off their inherited button jars and mistakenly shrunked sweaters, so my stock is growing.

How long have you been creating craft?

I’ve been crafting things since my first dandelion wreath in the sandbox, but since then I studied at art college where I made drawings and ceramics. I taught high school art and now I’m home raising kids. I learned to sew and embroider as a child (my mom was a prolific quilter) and returned to the craft a few years ago.

How did you get started?

The sewing sprang from the need for a birthday gift for my mom, who’s in a nursing home and unable to talk, read, or do much of anything independently. I wanted to give her something small and soft that she could hold and feel my love. I tried sewing a heart from fabric but it wasn’t good enough, I thought, (the first one was really ugly) so I made about a dozen more until I could get it right. I learned about felting wool along the way. I love the freedom of cutting and sewing felted materials—it’s very immediate and almost all your work shows—there are few hidden seams. There’s something honest and upfront about that.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

A “wildebeest” is a gnu, but literally means “wild beast”. I slipped “wool” into the name as a nod to both my material and the goofiness of the plushies’ personalities. Or maybe it’s me who’s the wooldebeast!

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

I’m inspired by the concept of comfort dolls—knitted donations for kids in Africa who have lost loved ones. Comfort dolls are packed in place of Styrofoam chips for HIV-AIDs medication. I made and sent one via I-Cross Canada a few years ago and loved the small scale of the doll. Sewing with recycled wools suits me better than knitting but I still like the idea of the beasts as gifts for anyone in need of a smile or comfort.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Tip 1: Take time to play, to develop a personal style. Experiment. Make some stuff you’d never sell.

Tip 2: Be careful not to smudge your work with the remains of your chocolate stash.

Tip 3: You can find time to make things in strange places. I hand embroider on long car trips, for instance.

Tip 4: Don’t drop straight pins under the table where your husband puts his feet.

Tip 5: Inspiration comes from the most unlikely of places—a faded decal on an antique teacup, maybe. Be ready for it.

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Go right now and visit Wooldebeast - and then come back and tell Sarah what you think!

FEATURED ARTIST

Our new feature is a shop on Etsy that is a must see for new mothers or anyone needing a gift for a new mama. Here is



Come and meet the artist, Amy -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make a variety of items, just based on whatever idea strikes me, or something I see that inspires me. I started up shop in April of this year with some Baby Bodysuits & cute boutique Baby Wipes Clutches, but have since branched out into Drink Coasters, and beautiful Sparkling Hair Pins & Hair Blossoms. I use only the best designer fabrics, Swarovski crystals, and other ingredients for my items.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

My favorite right now are my Wipes Clutches & my Sparkling Hair Pins...I've found them almost addictive! Every time I see a cool fabric, or a pretty finding, I rush home from work to start making something new. My head swirls with ideas constantly!

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been creating things for friends and family just about forever, but I just decided to open up shop in April. I just couldn't find the right outlet before, but when I found Etsy, I knew I had found a new home for my shop!

How did you get started?

My desire to create started long long ago, as a little girl. My Mom used to sew beautiful things for us to wear, so it started with sewing little projects of my own, cutting patterns, picking materials. I then moved on in college to creating gift baskets for weddings of my friends and family using my crafting skills & premium gifts, but couldn't find a way to translate that into a business that would work for me. I then started making baby gifts, including my Bodysuits & Night Lights for friends & family, and people told me I should set up shop so it would be easier for them to purchase things to give, and to tell others about my items. So in April, I opened up my Etsy shop, and have had so much fun since then!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

One of my other favorite things to do is work in my garden, and though I have many favorite flowers, Camellias are one of the most hardy and beautiful that I grow. When I decided to open up shop, I wanted something that reflected not only who I am, and what I love, but something beautiful and sort of catchy. The Pink Camellia was inspired by my "In The Pink" Camellia plants, a gorgeous hot pink ruffled Camellia. I tossed it around for a few days, and the name just sort of stuck.

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

I would mostly like to say that my work is a labor of love. I don't sell anything I wouldn't be happy to buy or give myself, and I'm proud of every single item I've created. Each item to me is special, and I work extremely hard to make sure they are of the best quality. I also take pride in keeping my prices affordable to just about everyone. There's nothing better than giving a gift that is original, and can't just be picked up at the local big box store! Nobody else will have what you have purchased!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice for other artists would be to just follow your heart. Sometimes you create something and think nobody else will be able to see what your inspiration was, or nobody else will love it as much as you. I have to say that I have been proven wrong every time! We are always our own harshest critic, and I think people need to believe in themselves and in their own talents, and share them!

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Great interview!!! Come and see this shop! Leave some comments for Amy!

A New Concern for Wholesaling Your Work

In my last article I provided links for the new CPSIA law that effects anyone creating items for use by children 12 and under in the United States. This law includes specific labeling requirements - which you will see a link about in that article.

Many retail shops that buy wholesale will often remove the label that the craft artist placed on the item. They do this for a variety of reason - the most common of which seems to be not wanting to identify the source of the item to their customers for fear that the customer will go directly to the artist/craftsperson to buy directly. This has happened to my work at several stores I have sold to in the past. I had not concern about this because I already made my sale to the retailer. Under CPSIA this becomes a problem. Now, the manufacturer's label (YOU) must remain on the item - and that label must be permanent. A retailer clipping that label off will place you liable under the law.

This is something that you must discuss with any retailer you are selling wholesale to. You may need to have the retailer sign in your wholesale agreement that the retailer will under no circumstances remove the label that you permanently attach to the item being sold to them, in compliance with the Federal law, C.P.S.I.A.

The idea of what happens to it after it leaves my hands no longer apply under this law. Of course, this only applies to items intended or marketed to children of the age 12 and under.

CPSIA - Links You Need to Know

The Consumer Protection Safety Improvement Act, CPSIA, a law passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bush in August 2009 effects any artist or craftsman creating things that are intended for, used by, or appeal to CHILDREN under the age of 12. This law has wrecked havoc on the craft community. This law is currently in effect. The law covers everything for children that will be sold, donated to charity, or given away, with the exception of personal gifts to family or direct friends. The law is enforced by both the C.P.S.C. and each State's Attorney General. Violation is a Federal Offense punishable by very large fines and imprisonment.

To learn what you need to know about CPSIA here are some links to give you all of the information that you need -

Consumer Product Safety Commission

ABOUT CPSIA

Guidelines for Small Businesses and Crafters

THE LAW REQUIRES SPECIAL LABELING OF ALL ITEMS - LABELS GUIDELINES

LABELING FAQ

FOR RESALE SHOPS AND THRIFT STORES

New CPSIA Law to Put an End to All Handmade Crafts for Children

A law unanimously passed by Congress with the intent to protect children from imported items containing lead was written in such a way that it will effectively end the sale all handmade for children. The law goes into full effect in February 2009.

The law requires that anyone - large business or home businesses making any item that can be used by a child under the age of 12 - that is ANY item - must be tested by an independent laboratory that has been approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This testing must be done on all components of the item. Testing will cost from $150 to $500 per item or component. Every time any component lot changes - that is - let's say you use a yard of fabric for an item - and then you need another yard and that yard comes from a different bolt of fabric - that item must be tested again. At the expense and the nature of handmade craft, it will be impossible for any home craftsman to sell any item that will be on the "children's list".

Beyond the effect on home craft, this law applies to the Toy Industry, the Children's Garment Industry, the Children's Furniture Industry, Children's Book Publishing, and on and on. Imagine what a child's shirt will cost in the next few months. Think about what that doll your little girl wants will cost.

This is a tragedy beyond belief. This may not have been the intention of Congress but it is the result.

The following news article relates the facts of this disaster better than I can.
http://www.patriotledger.com/opinions/opinions_columnists/x845827383/New-law-to-put-thousands-out-of-work

Please read and comment - there and here.

If you would like to be heard by the CPSC regarding this law you may comment at this link.
http://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/newleg.aspx

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Another Etsy photographer that is a must see is


This shop combines great photography with helping children - and a portion of each sale goes to benefit children's charities.

Come and meet Allie


Briefly describe what you make?

I take photographs, and sell not only the prints, but also create with them. In my shop, I have ACEO's, note card sets, magnets, t-shirts and onesies, all featuring my photographs. In the past, I have had bookmarks as well, but currently do not have any listed. I have also fairly recently begun making glass photo pendants, which are a lot of fun.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Clearly, I love photography, but I also enjoy working with paper goods, fibers and beads.

How long have you been creating craft?

I guess I have been crafty all my life. My mother always made sure I had plenty of materials to create with, and she really encouraged my creativity. I have been really interested in photography since I was about 12 years old, and have been seriously pursuing this for about three years. In the past, I have also enjoyed cross stitch, knitting and crochet (I think this runs in my family!), but this doesn't fit into my life at the moment, which is ok too.

How did you get started?

About three years ago, I moved from being a full-time pediatrician to being a stay-at-home mom, and have been on a steep learning curve ever since! Although, I loved practicing medicine very much (I especially loved the inner city patient population I worked with.), it didn't make sense to me in my heart to be at the hospital caring for other children while someone else was putting my own children to bed. Over the years, I have received encouragement from friends and family regarding my photographs - everyone said I should really "do something" with them. Being at home has given me the opportunity to research venues to market my photography. My cousin's wife and a jewelry artist I met both suggested Etsy, and here I am! I would also have to say that living away from home for two years - we lived in California - also helped me move in my thinking from, "Wouldn't it be nice to be able to really do something with my photography." to "I can really do this." Something about being in a different place for a while helped me think outside my experience up until then, and see other possibilities for my life.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

For quite a few years, I have had the idea to somehow combine my love of photography with a desire to continue to be an advocate for children (one of my very favorite parts of being a pediatrician). I feel very strongly that in general, children are not valued in this country (just comparing the salaries of teachers and child care workers versus almost anyone - professional baseball players, movie actors, college football coaches - really shows where the priorities are, IMHO). And really, children are in need of so much all around the world. I wanted a way to hightlight organizations which help children, and to help support them in some way - even if just a little bit at a time. My husband and I have a friend who founded a non-profit organization, Reach Out Childrens' Fund, which helps fund programs benefitting Peruvian children. I started with this organization to give her more exposure, and also to capitalize on the relationship we already have. So, I wanted my Etsy shop name to reflect in some way the advocacy part of my goal. My husband and I tossed around lots of ideas, and he actually came up with "allieart4children," which I thought really fit.

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

Well, I guess I answered this somewhat in #5 above! Also, I am continuing to establish relationships with other charitable organizations, with my goal being to have a choice for my customers, so that they may designate which organization should receive the profit from their purchase.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Believe in yourself! Another sound piece of advice I have been given (from a very insightful attending in residency) is to think carefully and honestly through any criticism you receive from others. If you feel the comment is valid, then use it to improve what you do. If you do not feel that it is valid, discard the criticism and move on.

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Great interview! I love it when an artist really let's us get to know her. You must visit Allie's Shop. Make a purchase and you will not only be getting a great photo - you will be helping a good cause too.

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

These artists make so many cute things - come and meet this cooperative of artists called



Here is our interview with one of the artists - Michele!

Describe what you make?

Since we are a Collective, we make many different things. Joanie makes the Caterpillar Fur items, and is branching out into making knitted toys. I make Sockmonkeys, knitted and soft toys. crochet items and knitted shawls. Juanita makes the most wonderful embilished hats. Sadly at the present she is going to school full time, so hasn't made any for us in awhile. Together we also make anything else that catches our fancy. It's all just a bit of whimsy.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

We adore anything of a textile nature. Yarns, wool, fabrics of all sorts. Between us we have enough stashed stuff just in yarns and fabrics to open a small store.

How long have you been creating craft?

Each of us has been crafting for about 30 years.

How did you get started?

I started and learned to knit at a Rennaisance Faire many years ago, as part of an Audience iteraction gig. As well as spinning wool from scratch on an about a 250 year old Giant Walking wheel.

Joanie and Jaunita are part of the same Guild. We love to act together, and all have a passion for our respective crafts. It was just a natural progression that we went in together in this venture.


Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name came from the first knitted toy I ever made. The color of the wool yarn was Rosewood. Which also became the name of the item. Rosewood became our shop mascot.

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

We're old fashioned girls. We love to make things with our hands. We put the same love and attention into the work we do for others, as we would do for ourselves. Often the items we make become gifts for our friends and families.

Sometimes our friends and families just come over and take what we make. For example my two hat snatching grown daughters!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Always do your homework on any new venture. Market research, keywords, price and cost analysis are all very important. Have a plan, and a road map. Otherwise you just start to spin your wheels,and get frustrated.

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So great. This is our first cooperative featured! Their shop is terrific. VISIT it now!

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!