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 featured artist makes an interesting assortment of accessories. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Julie -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make unique clothing and accessories for girls and women, using interesting vintage elements like millinery flowers and quilt patches. At the moment I have mostly headbands, pins, and sundresses, but I'm hoping to expand soon into skirts, tops, and crocheted and knitted items. I'd also love to experiment with making some stationery with my fashion illustrations on it!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Oh, gosh, I love it all... At the moment, I'm doing a lot of sewing and crocheting, which lets me work with two of my favorite crafting materials, fabric and yarn. When it comes to fabric, my heart still belongs to my very favorite-- floral cotton. It's great for everything from dresses to purses to rosettes for hair accessories, and it looks pretty on everyone. I also love to draw, especially fashion illustrations, and for those I use Chartpak markers (which have a lovely, wet, almost watercolor feel to work with), Prismacolor colored pencils, and a variety of other oddments, including eye shadow, q-tips, and pen-and-ink.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've always been making things-- my mom used to come downstairs in the morning and find me at the kitchen table, working busily on one craft project or another. I started drawing clothing when I was about 6, and my first sewing adventure was at age 10 or so. I joined a 4-H sewing group, and made a really atrocious smiley-face print dress, which I proceeded to slice up the middle when I tried to serge the inside edges. Whoops. I come from a family of artists, so creativity and crafts were always strongly encouraged.

How did you get started?

I'm not exactly sure where my desire to design clothing, in particular came from, but it was there from a very young age. Then, after I'd drawn clothing, I wanted to learn how to make it, so I started creating outfits for my dolls. I was especially fond of cutting up socks to make very chic (to my 8-or-9-year-old mind) little tube dresses for my Barbies. Before long, I wanted to do more than that, and I became very involved with miniatures, and began experimenting with polymer clay foods and little hand-sewn objects for my dollhouse. By age 14, I was sewing on a regular basis, and then at 15 I had a spectacular sewing teacher who really inspired me and helped me with my technique. (Thank you Mrs. Wells!) My grandmother taught me to knit when I was 16, and as soon as I saw amigurumi I just had to learn to crochet, and learned from books and websites. I've always had the urge to create, and I was fortunate enough to have parents who encouraged that. Now I'm going into my third year at the Fashion Institute of Technology for fashion design.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop is somewhat less than deeply meaningful, I'm afraid. My name is Julie Rose, and I spend the vast majority of my time sewing. Also... I couldn't resist the rhyme.

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

I think an artist's intent really comes through in their final piece or item. To me, it's really important that someone wearing one of my creations feels effortlessly pretty and feminine. It's also important that my pieces be functional-- durable, nonrestrictive, and viable wardrobe and accessory options for the modern woman. I truly love every piece of clothing and every accessory that I create, and I always hope that it's as enjoyable for a woman to wear one of my pieces as it was for me to create it.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Know that your work is valid. It's so easy for people to de-value creativity, but it is something that no amount of money can buy. When you feel the urge to create, create. Art is something that will never be able to be manufactured, and even though it isn't always easy to find them, there are people out there who will fall in love with your work. Also, that creative "dry spells" happen, and even though they're scary, they're not insurmountable. You'll make it through, something will inspire you to pick up the pencil or the sewing machine or the paintbrush again, every time.

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Great! Come and see all of the nice things that Julie makes right here!

FEATURED ARTIST

This is a fiber artist and a silkscreen printer. Come and meet purushapeople -





Here is our interview with the artist, Hayley -

Briefly describe what you make?

i make American sweatshop free yoga clothing, hand screen printed and hand dyed by me! clothes are meant to inspire the wearer to feel one with nature, and to love her body as much as she loves the world! purusha makes clothing that is classic and timeless, yet youthful and modern. the perfect clothing for exercise, lounge, or after exercise :)

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

i enjoy screen printing above all else, and i also dabble in oil painting on the side. i have a painting shop on etsy www.meandmystarlight.etsy.com , but i have yet to make a sale, so i stick mostly to making clothing!

How long have you been creating craft?

purusha was started in December of 2008! so ive been working on my business for around 1 1/2 years, and i love every minute of it. i cant wait though for more time to pass, so hopefully i can grow and expand more, and be featured in more boutiques across the country.

How did you get started?

he he i got started because i had so many crazy entrepreneurial ideas, and i was finally like, well you'd better pick one if you want to have something succeed! i was digging lots of little holes all over the place, because i have many interests... i was working on making a health drink, selling paintings, and writing and illustrating a children's book about my dog, and..... getting into screen printing! i loved screen printing the most, so i was like, OK im going to make something with this! so i started buying my own yoga pants (USA made only), and dying them and screen printing them. i got so many compliments on them so i started to sell them online on my etsy shop. sales were a bit slow at first, but now they are getting steady as i am building a name for myself.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

my shop name, purusha people, is a Sanskrit word. purusha means 'the soul of the universe' or the loving energy that is in all beings. i've always loved this word, and thought it was perfect for the image i am portraying with my yoga clothing.

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

i would like people to know that i can customize any garment just for them :) i love to own clothing that no one else has, so i enjoy creating pieces for customers that are specially made just for them! id also like people to know that you can be comfortable and stylish at the same time! purusha clothing is extremely soft and wearable, yet sharp looking and turns heads!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

words of advice: so cliche, but true- never give up! invest all of yourself into your product and you will get noticed! time takes care of all, and if you work hard and be yourself you will be rewarded! promote your image and your brand anyway you can- facebook, etsy, twitter- and don't be afraid to be different!

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Come see Hayley's shop.

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

This is a very unusual craft - an ancient craft brought to modern application. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Jessica:

Briefly describe what you make?

I make handmail chainmaille jewelry, key chains, and lanyards.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I work with bright aluminum, anodized aluminum, enameled copper, and sterling silver.

How long have you been creating craft?

I first learned the art in August of 2009, after my doctor told me I needed a hobby.

How did you get started?

I bought a book and taught myself from that book, other books and the internet.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Since chainmaille deals mostly in metal, i wanted to represent that with a regal association, such as the reign of a monarch.

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

I am completely self-taught and despite having a medical condition that hinders my craft, I still love making jewelry!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Dont give up. Keep experimenting and putting yourself out there. You will never go anywhere if no one can find you.

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Well, short on words but big on talent. Come see Metal Reign!

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

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!

FEATURED ARTIST

This shop is a bit different in the theme of what it sells. Come and meet




Here is our interview with the artist, Sabina -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make spiritually inspired jewelry and crocheted items. That's the short answer. The long answer is that I make pieces that I feel bless the wearers because while I'm making them, I listen to worship music and let the music inspire me in the creation process.


What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

With the jewelry I started out just being interested in the beads, but as time has gone by, I've wanted to learn more and more, so now I'm into wire wrapping, etc. I keep saying I want a micro torch so I can get into some real metalsmithing, but my 18 year old daughter (who's an artist) keeps insisting that I'll burn the apartment building down ...

When I'm crocheting, I work with different kinds of yarn, but prefer either cottons or acrylics that are easy to care fibers. I'm the kind of person who thinks about how this will be used and how would I want to be able to care for it if it were mine. Then I choose the fibers that can we washed and dried easily.


How long have you been creating craft?

For as long as I can remember I've been doing some sort of crafting. When I was little I used to take leftover bits of fabric and fashion clothes for my Barbies. Then my mom taught me to crochet. Later a friend taught me how to knit. I had a sewing business for 10 years when my children were little. I also had a scrapbooking store for four years. So it seems like I've always been doing something crafty.


How did you get started?

Well, because I had some business sense it was pretty easy for me to take my crafting to the next level and make things to sell. I used to give things away and then people said that my things were so well made that I should sell them. When it came to the jewelry and crocheting, that was easy to make the decision to sell them.


Where does the name of your shop come from?

The actual name of my shop is Angelic Adornments and it came from the fact that I listen to worship music while creating -- so it was like having angels for muses. It just seemed like the logical choice.

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

I so love what I do and I feel a little piece of who I am is in each piece. I want the works to bless the wearers and brighten their day. So when they buy one of my items, I hope they will feel blessed.


What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't quit your day job! Ha ha. Seriously though, if you love what you do, if it gives you joy and is almost therapeutic in nature, then keep doing it. I keep telling my daughter to please herself first in her art work and if other people love it that that is icing on the cake. Don't try to please man first because you will lose all sense of who you are in your art. And its your sense of self that needs to shine through to others from the things you make.

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The work here is lovely and you must see for yourself that you are going to find that her pieces just wonderful for anyone!

Come visit Sabina at her shop!

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!

FEATURED ARTIST

This featured artist creates all types of beautiful hair bows and has a shop on Etsy! Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make luxury headbands and hair accessories for fashion minded women. They're eye-catching and are crafted to stand out in super thick, curly, or kinky hair. Definitely not your standard everyday hair accessories! These are for your divas, drama queens, fashionistas, pin-ups, and glam girls.

What materials do you enjoy working with the most?

I definitely have a tulle addiction! The other day, my baby niece found a scrap of tulle in my pocket. She held it up and said "princess?" That's exactly how I think of tulle. It's so feminine and dreamy. Even though it's light and airy, it has the ability to make a elegant, regal statement.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been doing crafts since I was a child. My mother is a fine art painter (marvalousartandtile.etsy.com) and always encouraged me to explore my creative side. I was even named for a famous fashion designer. Naturally, I studied fashion design in school and now I use those couture elements in my hair accessories.

How did you get started?

When I started wearing my hair in an afro, I couldn't find any hair accessories striking enough to stand out in my big cloud of hair. I began making my own and then friends of mine encouraged me to start a shop on etsy.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My friends and I wanted a name that would reflect the high fashion aspect of the hair accessories. You can buy headbands anywhere, but we wanted to differentiate ourselves from the competition by highlighting it's runway style. After brainstorming, we settled on the haute sounding "La Petite Boutique de Bandeaux."

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

I realize what it's like to get a brand new shiny headband only to have it shatter apart after it's first use. That's why at La Petite Boutique de Bandeaux, we use quality materials from around the globe. Our headbands are made from a study yet flexible metal wrapped in satin ribbon, tulle, organza for comfort. You won't find any cheap plastics here!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Finding a mentor has been key for me. You can always learn from someone more experienced than yourself.

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You have got to come to this shop and see these hair bows!

FEATURED ARTIST

This feature is on a jewelery craftsperson on Etsy. Come an meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Lindsay -

Briefly describe what you make?

I create one of a kind beautiful pieces of jewelry. My jewelry is vintage inspired and created using repurposed vintage materials in combination with other lovely beads and gemstones. Because of this, each piece is very unique and is made with a great deal of love.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Obviously, I'm a jewelry maker, so I love working with beads, but my favorite thing to do is the days that I go to antique stores or go rummaging through my grandmother's old jewelry to find unique vintage components to use in my jewelry creations. Some of my favorite non-vintage materials to work with are turquoise and freshwater pearls. I love anything with pearls. ♥

How long have you been creating craft?

I have always loved arts and crafts from the time I was very young. When I was little, I could sit for hours and just color in a coloring book or draw pretty pictures to go on the refrigerator. I loved craft time at school when most kids would have rather been on the playground. Though I've loved crafts almost since the time of birth, I have only been creating jewelry for around 6 years.

How did you get started?

I got started creating jewelry after searching for a unique Christmas present for my sister one year. I ended up making her 10 pairs of earrings. After that, my friends and her friends started asking for them and I realized that this could become a business for me. I began to sell only earrings in boutiques and salons in my hometown. Now, my jewelry line has expanded to include necklaces and bracelets as well.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop came from the idea that while each piece is unique and one of a kind, it also represents me. I have never made a piece of jewelry that I wouldn't personally wear, so you are getting a good sample of my style by looking at my shop.

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

I want people to know that my work is not just a business to me. It is something that I absolutely love doing. I take pride in every piece. Honestly, it's hard to decide which pieces to sell and which to keep for myself because I love my work so much.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

If your craft is something that you love, don't give up just because you aren't selling as much as you like. Loving what you do is the most important thing.

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Come visit a great shop! The jewelery has a vintage look and "retro" is hot!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Allow me to introduce you to a photographer who presents her photos not only to hang and display, but also to wear. As are the other photographers that I have interviewed, this one is also a member of P.O.E. - Photographers of Etsy. Come and meet



Here is our interview with Jessica -

Briefly describe what you make?

I take photographs, both digital and film, and then sell prints of my favorites in my shop. I have also expanded into some accessories, such as greeting cards, necklaces and key chains, all made from my photos.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Digital photography is great for instant gratification and learning and improving on the spot since I can immediately check my photos and make adjustments. But I love 35mm film, especially black and white, and would like to devote more time and effort to taking more film photos in the future. Outside of my etsy shop, I'm a novice crafter and enjoying knitting, embroidery, and making things with felt.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been into arts and crafts as long as I can remember, always making home-made gifts or ornaments for my family. But I didn't really get started with photography until 2 years ago. It had always been a passing interest for me, but it wasn't until I bought my first SLR camera in 2007 that I really fell in love with it.

How did you get started?

After experimenting with taking photos, I took the plunge and purchased a digital SLR camera. Shooting digitally sped up the process of how quickly I could review and edit my photos, and that made the possibility of opening an Etsy shop a lot more realistic. Though I have been a buyer for a long time, I only started selling my photographs on Etsy in July of 2008.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My day job is a film and television editor. "Flash frame" is a film term for a single frame that shows up for a fraction of a second. I liked that the term was connected to my film-making background, but also sounded like a photography term since both flashes and frames are relevant to still photography as well. It seemed like a good name to bridge those two interests of mine.

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

Every photo in my shop is something that I would hang in my home, and I'm truly flattered and humbled when others feel the same way.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice would be to make time for art. I think a lot of times when life is hectic, creating art can become less of a priority. But making something with your hands or capturing something beautiful can be its own reward by making you slow down and appreciate what's happening around you. That alone is worth making time for. Of course, I'm guilty of forgetting this too, and need to get better about taking my own advice.


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Wonderful! You have got to see the photography for your self. Come right now to Jessica's shop!

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Would you like to see yourself on this page. You can be interviewed too! Just contact me through my shop at Etsy - Past Perfect.

Featured Artist

This featured artist creates fine jewelry. This is a cut above much of what you will find and goes beyond craft to artistry. Come and meet this artist, Jen, and her shop, A Blond and A Torch.

Briefly describe what you make?

I make organic jewelry, mostly using sterling silver, some gold-filled material and a littl brass. Mostly I make rings, but I also have earrings and a few necklaces and braclets. I am always striving to design more!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I enjoy sterling silver the most. I guess because I have worked with it so much that it is the most comfortable.

How long have you been creating craft?

I started making beaded jewelry about 2 years ago when my doctor recommended a hobby to try to reduce stress. I went to Hobby Lobby and bought a book on beading and it went from there.

I eventually wanted to try metalsmithing so once again I bought some books and started practicing. I opened up this shop almost 3 months ago to sell my metal works.

How did you get started?

I was doing some random Google search on some beading techniques and I came across a blog. I wish I could remember whose blog it was, but she talked at length about Etsy and how to get started selling there. I took her advice and it went from there.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Ha! It actually comes from a friend of mine. She was throwing out some ideas for a shop name and I thought A Blond And A Torch was pretty cute. Well, I am a blond and I do use a torch, so it works!

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

How much I love to create it. I treat each piece with love. I know each item I creat is a representation of me so I put all my efforts into making each one as perfect as I can. If I wouldn't wear it myself, I start over.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Make what you love! If you do that then it won't matter if you are not selling 100 items a week. Just keep doing what you enjoy and it will show.

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You must come over to Jen's shop on Etsy and see her work! You will want it!

Featured Artist

I have a great artist to introduce you to! She makes some very different jewelry. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist -

Briefly describe what you make?

i make a wide range of eclectic jewelry and accessories. i dabble in everything so i have everything from the kitsch to the elegant. i like to have something for everyone.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

i REALLY love shrinky dink. it's just so much fun to watch them curl in the oven.
i also love gems and pearls, i have oodles of them, and yet, never enough :)
How long have you been creating craft?

i've been crafting my whole life. i used to sew, draw and paint a lot when i was younger. i also learned to knit and crochet in my early 20s.

How did you get started?

with my etsy store? i had been making so much stuff and having it pile up in my studio and not getting much outside love. i figured if i put my stuff up on etsy then people all over the world would at least be able to SEE all of the hard work and love that i put into my items. bonus points that they may actually buy them as well.
Where does the name of your shop come from?

i don't know. it used to be the tag of my blog that i started in 2000. so it was 8 years ago, so i can't remember. but when i started my NEW blog i revived it. then when i opened my store and found myself needing a name, it just seemed natural for it to be A Little Piece of the Madness.

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

that each piece has so much awesome in it. no, seriously, so much awesome your head would explode if you knew just how much.
okay, really? i want people to know that i just really love what i do. (how cheesy)
What words of advice do you have for other artists?

to sell 100 items, you have to list 100 items.
also, make things that you love. do this because you love to. buyers can tell if you're into what you're making. so put all of you in it. i don't care how gross that sounds

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Wow! Come and take a look at her work. I know that you will love it. There are TWO places to look. Her etsy shop
and her own site .

While you are at Etsy, please come see my TWO shops
QBRANCHLTD
and
PASTPERFECT

Featured Artist

Here is an artist who creates clothing for both children and adults. Come and meet -



Here is our interview with the artist of LaMadeleine, Madeline -

Briefly describe what you make?

Primarily I make clothing for women and children, most of which is vintage inspired or made using vintage materials.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Cotton is, by far my favorite medium. It is a fabric that you can trust. It irons, washes, and wears well. It's crisp and reminiscent of summertime.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been creating, something at least, as long as I can remember. Even as a child I was always trying my hand at different crafts, sometimes successfully, other times, not. It wasn't until about 3 years ago (when I was a junior in high school) that I really started sewing clothing.

How did you get started?

I got started, a few years ago, when mother and I first started selling on e-bay. We sold a lot of different things but specialized in vintage sewing patterns and fabric. There were always a lot of vintage sewing supplies around the house, just begging to be used. I started out painting pictures of the illustrations on the covers of the patterns, and eventually decided to try making some of the designs. It turned out to be a lot of fun, and I've been doing it ever since.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop is derived from my real name "Madeline". I just played around with different spellings and ideas and decided the French article "La" and the extra "e" in the middle made it sound more distinguished.

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

I make a lot of items on request, for people who have a certain idea in mind, for a dress they would like, and ask me to make it for them. The thing I love most about making clothing on etsy is doing custom orders. I love making dresses for people, that are one of a kind and made especially for them. People really value having something that is truly unique and their's alone, and I get a lot of joy from making that happen.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

The best advice I can give is to know and explore your options. It's a big world out there and it just keeps expanding, in terms of knowledge and possibilities. There are countless tools and venues to be used and explored. Talk to other crafters, see other people's work, share ideas, search for inspiration, look around in internet-land to see what other people are doing with their skills. Most importantly though, love what you do.

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Great things to be found at LaMadeleine

While you are at Etsy please come take a look at my latest creation. This is something different that I have been getting into and would love your opinions. Take a look at Flora Pura.

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!

Featured Artist

This artist is a needlework artist. Here is Eggmoney -

Here is our interview with the artist, Lynn -


Describe what you make?

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

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

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

How long have you been creating craft?

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

How did you get started?

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

Where does the name of your shop come from?

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

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

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

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

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

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

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

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C0me to her shop and meet Lynn at Eggmoney.

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

Featured Artist

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

Here is our interview with Heather!

Briefly describe what you make?

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

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

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

How long have you been creating craft?

I started quilting in 2005.

How did you get started?

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

Where does the name of your shop come from?

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

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

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

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

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

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

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