FEATURED ETSY SHOP - OLIVE DESIGNS by OLIVIA

At OLIVE DESIGNS by OLIVA you will find delightful, colorful change purses like the one above, wallets, earrings, and unique beaded hairpins to add a bit of whimsy to your hair! Be sure to visit Olivia's shop, and see if she has something for you.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?
It's very hard to say what led me in this direction, because I have been creating things ever since I can remember. I have always loved arts and crafts, creating things, and things of beauty or color ever since I was small. I started with doodling, drawing and painting, and then got into jewelry design, and sewing. When I recieved my first sewing machine for Christmas, that was a big stepping stone in getting into sewing, fibre art, and even fashion design. Through all my experimentations, I taught myself sewing techniques.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I got really into sewing and fashion design because it was a way to create art out of used and vintage clothing and fabrics, that was functional as well as beautiful. I love that idea! I wouldn't say that I only work with one medium. I do prefer sewing crafts and fibre art, I have tried so many different things! There are always new techniques to try and new materials to use. From watercolor painting to stained glass and felting, I love to explore new mediums.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I love sitting and listening to music and piecing together my designs. It's so much fun to put the pieces of fabric together and mix patterns and colors. I also love arranging buttons. I love how satisfying it is to have a finished product that so much love and care went into , and how each item comes out completely different.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I would choose a strawberry...small, delicate, and cute as a button. Understated, unique, fun, and with a punch of flavour on the inside.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I also do a little bit of jewelry design, but I love to do fun watercolor and ink paintings. I would love to get more involved in it and learn more about it, I'm sure that will be my next big obsession.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
That life is beautiful! The little things in life can bring such joy, and you should just look around you and be appreciative of the beautiful world we live in.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Never give up! I know that is what everyone always says, but its true! If crafting and art is what brings you the most joy, and you love to do it, then continue with it, and keep working at it to evolve and fine tune your craft. I love how there is such a huge artist's community, that I never even knew about before, and I send all the best to all artists and crafters out there!! Keep being creative!

OLIVA, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with us. I'm sure you will find many other avenues of expressing yourself. Be sure to stop and visit...OLIVE DESIGNS out on Etsy. You can also learn more about Oliva and her designs by visiting her Indie Public link below.

INDIE PUBLIC

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - GWYNN'S GIFTS

I was looking through Gwynn's Gifts before I started to put them out here as a "featured Etsy" shop, and as I always love to learn more about people, I am drawn to the profile section of each shop. Here is a portion of the profile to give you even a bit more information as, Heather tells us how GWYNN'S GIFTS came about. Then, be sure to read the following interview that Heather so kindly took the time to complete.

We are a mother- daughter team that has a passion for all things creative. My mother has been teaching me new crafts since I can remember. We have had so much fun learning new techniques and trying things out together. We love to work with all kinds of mediums. We enjoy doing tiny things all the way up to trying to build our own furniture. The sky is the limit for us when it comes to creating new things. My mom is very good at following instructions and learning things to the tee. I on the other hand just like to look at new things and go my own way from there. We have very different approaches to our creating, but we both get the same pleasure out of it

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I originally started making jewelry to keep my hands busy. I had quit smoking and needed something to do (still a non smoker after 2 years). My mom had started making jewelry so she had all the supplies, so I just went to town. In the first 2 weeks, I had made over a 100 pairs of earrings and I had nothing to do with them. My mom also has a love of beautiful paper and textures so she started making cards and the two just seemed to merge together. It was something we could both create and Gwynn’s Gifts was born. We both have the middle name Gwynn so that is how the name came about.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I still haven’t decided what I want to work with because I love everything. So I tend to do a little of this and a little of that.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I find it very rewarding to have what is in my mind come out with my creations. I feel so proud when something turns out just right and I love it when people are so happy to receive it.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I think I would choose an apple because the cores are all the same, but they come in all different shapes and colors.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be, and why?

I love to sculpt with clay. If I could I would have my own space with a wheel and a kiln, that might just be pure bliss.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

I hope when people receive our cards that they feel special.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Just do what feels good. If you love it, then that is all there needs to be. Art is personal, and we are all lucky when it is shared.

Heather, what a wonderful thing for you and your mom to be able to co-create together. Thanks, again for taking the time to share your thoughts and work with all of us. I really love the idea of the cards and earrings, and other items as a gift set!! The "trout fly" is also great! Very unique and lovely ideas! Be sure to visit GWYNN'S GIFTS to see all the beautiful cards and gift sets available.

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FLICKR

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - Pretty Little Love Objects by Blinking Mouse

Let's welcome PRETTY LITTLE LOVE OBJECTS by the Blinking Mouse, and hear what led this delightful artist to start designing her fun, colorful jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?
When I was young, I was a greeb, kind of a UK cross between what is now emo and a goth. Many, many, many plastic beaded stretch bracelets were the order of the day, and I used to make a lot of them myself. Eventually I stopped dressing in a way that reflected my musical tribe, but I was hooked on making bracelets and jewellery in general. I made a button necklace for my friends birthday, used some of the craft kits people had given me as presents, and became the unstoppable crafting machine I am today.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I’m really passionate about jewellery, I still love to buy it even though I make my own, and I could sift through all the jewellery in shops like Accessorise and Topshop for hours (but people tend to drag me away). I just love sparkly, glossy, colourful accessories, beads are what my paradise would be made of. Jewellery making is also really easy to get into. You don’t need that much special equipment to start out with, not like working in clay, lampworking or sewing, you can just concentrate on buying pretty materials. I’m kind of impatient when it comes to having the right things to begin with, so I think jewellery making satisfied that need to get going straight away.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
Picking colour schemes is so much fun, you can be so inventive and match colours you don’t often see together on the high street. Of course searching down the best materials is really fun (but bad for my bank balance) I’m constantly distracted on Etsy because I’m like a magpie with an obsession for bright and shiny things.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Toughie can I have two choices? OK...I think we'll let you have two choices!! I would pick a red apple because I just got the most gorgeous Swarovski bracelet given to me and it features a crystal apple. For me Swarovski is really the pinnacle of excellence in classy, grown up jewellery. If I could have a second choice (please) I’d describe my craft as a carrot because it’s a quirky choice and I love my pieces to have a personality. I also love to include unusual materials, like buttons and plastic stars, that people might think only belong in children’s jewellery. I use these items to create Pretty Little Love Objects that any grown up would love to wear to express their individuality. Love your 2 choices...Jodie!!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I’d love to be a writer. I dream about it constantly, stop and start, and then return to reading to try to educate myself on how to get better.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
I really want people to start shopping properly. Shopping should not be a chore that you do quickly, buying dull gifts in a slapdash manner. You should enjoy picking out the perfect thing as a present for you or a loved one. If you put a little effort into finding a personal present you will get much more appreciation back, and that little cycle of events will increase the loveliness of the world. What a lovely thought!! So true!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Try to get some sleep, at some point. It’s easy to get stuck promoting online for hours when you should be recharging your creative batteries. Pick promotional opportunities that are simple and effective so you have plenty of time to give to crafting and having a life.

THANKS, Jodie for a delightful insight into you as a person, and what motivates you to create your fun, colorful jewelry! I really enjoyed having you as a featured artist out here on DZFANTASY, and wish you every success in all your endeavors! Be sure to visit PRETTLY LITTLE LOVE OBJECTS on Etsy....you just could find the right piece of jewelry that could brighten your day!

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JUST BE CONNECTED A HOME FOR CREATIVE BLOGGERS

FEATIRED ETSY SHOP - czukART

WELCOME, czukART as a featured Etsy shop out here on DZFANTASY. I really like the simple uniqueness and texture of this item. What a wonderful book to use for all one's special thoughts and ideas. Let's hear what this artist has to say about herself and her work.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I’ve always been interested in the arts. I’m currently a student at the Columbus College of Art and Design. When school let out for the summer I was shocked at how much I missed the busyness and enjoyment of creating. I began to sew and draw and fiddle around with new ideas. A friend of my recommended Etsy. I signed up and fell in love with the online community. Now I think it might be a full blown obsession, haha.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I really like three dimensional art. I try to incorporate a lot of texture in my work. I’ve also always liked acrylic paints, handmade papers and fabrics.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

The whole process is always rewarding. To develop a concept and actually watch it come to life still amazes me.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

A cucumber. It’s cool, refreshing.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I love to work with wire. I did some wire sculpture in high school and learned to solder my first year of college. I love how you have to struggle with the medium, you have to tame it.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Simplicity, functionality and beauty.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Some people get frustrated. They feel as though they have wasted their time. John Lennon shares my view on this. “Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted.” In short, love what you do no matter what it is!

THANKS, czukART, for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with us! If you'd like to learn a little bit more about this artist, be sure to visit her links below.

MY SPACE

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MY LATEST CREATION - Striking ZEBRA FAIRY

ZEBRA FAIRY - Fiber sculpted art doll

I just finished this delightful ZEBRA fairy yesterday, and thought I 'd bring her out here on my blog, since I am so happy to finally have had time to create her!

I love her fun black and white zebra patterned fabric, which has zebra all over the pattern. I manged to get one of the zebra's head and neck on the front of the fairy, and there are several more peeking out from her wings, and her back.

She is one of my medium size sitting fairies, which was 10" long before being sculpted into her current, permanent sitting position. She has sparkly black hair, which is accented with bone beads and Swarovski crystals. She even has a black jet Swarovski crystal for a belly button.

She comes sitting on her own hand-painted black box, which can be used as a "keepsake" box for your favorite jewelry, or whatever else you might like to keep safe there. The fairy will be sure to protect your treasures. It even has a tiny little cushion which I created out of the same fabric as the fairy, and is lightly stuffed with fiberfill, with a white bead sewn into the center.

If you'd like to learn more about my newest creation, just click on any of her photos. I hope you enjoy seeing her as much as I enjoyed designing and creating her.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BUTTERFLY MOSAICS2 by Monica

Let's welcome Monica of BUTTERFLY MOSAICS2 on Etsy, and learn a little bit about her and her charming mosaic creations. What a charming little bird bath above! Great soap dish or jewelry holder!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I was surfing the internet one day and came upon this beautiful mosaicked box. I fell in love with it. The price was out of my range at the time and I thought ~ maybe I could do that. After tons of trial and error I completed my first piece… it was horrific and didn’t even come close to the intricate box I had stumbled upon the week before. So I kept trying…

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I’ve tried so many different types of crafting… I never stuck with any of them. Mosaics I did. I just love creating something new and beautiful out of something that someone was willing to give away.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love looking for china. I usually go to thrift markets and garage sales to find vintage & antique dinnerware. It’s a rush when I find a fantastic pattern at an awesome price. Also, knowing that all of these pieces have a story behind them intrigues me. All the family dinners, Grandparent memories, or maybe their wedding gifts. It makes me feel like I am preserving someone’s memories somewhere.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

A Pear… shabby/vintage looking, but yummy at the same time.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I’d love to be able to draw. I really, really wish I could transfer some of my creativity to pencil and paper. Every once and a while I get the thought in my head that if I try hard enough I’ll be able to draw. So I go and buy the fancy paper and the fancy pencils and sit down and… nope, I still can’t draw.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Well, I would say.....find your own personal style. Experiment with different ways of doing your craft, you’ll find a balance, which is some kind of mixture of all the experiments and that becomes unique to you.

Monica, how wonderful that you "kept on trying" because your mosaic creations are just so beautiful and charming! Thanks, again, for taking the time to share your thoughts and creations with us. Be sure to visit Monica's BUTTERFLY MOSAICS2, and her other links listed below.

FLICKR

BUTTERFLY MOSAICS

ART/CRAFT SHOWS IN A SLOW ECONOMY

Some of my mermaids enjoying the breeze at an art show this past weekend!

This past weekend I did my 5th art show of the season at the STONEWOOD VILLAGE ART FAIR in Brookfield, Wisconsin. I have been doing this lovely show for 4 years now, and this weekend really brought home just how much the slow economy is affecting sales for artists and crafters!

It is a very well run show, and takes place in a delightful New England style setting of shops and restaurants, winding paths, and a central plaza. It is a juried art show, and each year the quality of the artwork being exhibited gets better and better. The show offers jewelry, garden art, glass, photography, painting, ceramics, fiber and a lot more.

It seems that the slow economy is not only affecting the sales of exhibiting artists, but also the number of people attending the show. Saturday started out a bit "drizzly" weather wise, but by noon it turned out to be a gorgeous sunny, not too hot day! I was amazed at the very low number of people attending the show. Sunday we had another gorgeous day for the weather, and while there was a bit bigger crowd, there definitely weren't that many people carrying packages....unless, of course, they had a tiny purchase tucked into a purse or pocket!

I talked to many of the artists at the show and they all were saying the same thing.....sales were "way down", not only at this show, but at others they had already done this season. It seems this is a trend that has been going on for about two years now. Will it get better.....?? We as artists and crafters certainly hope it does. My creating is a passion with me, as I know it is with many other artists, so I'm not about to "throw in the towel", and stop creating....anytime soon!! I've had one fantastic show out of the five I've done so far....so everyone just needs to keep on doing what they love!

Several suggestions for taking some of the cost and risk out of doing shows in these slow times are:

Limit the number of shows you do.

Do shows in your immediate or close surrounding areas. Saves on gas and overnight lodging expenses.

Do shows that have been good for sales for you in the past.

If possible, pick one day shows instead of two.

Stay positive and cheerful at all times!

It would be fun and interesting to hear from artists in other states and areas, to hear how the "slow economy" is affecting your art/craft shows sales and experiences, if any!

Be sure to leave a comment!

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - MADELINE CAREY - PAPER MACHE BOWLS

I just love all the vivid colors in this artist's work!! Let's hear what Madeline has to say about her work and how she got started making these delightful paper mache' creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Well, my father, Craig Carey, http://www.careyart.com/, has been living off of his art for over 35 years, and I just sort of grew up with the idea of 'making things = your job'. I ran the booth at art shows for him and he taught me to paint and to do simple assembly. Eventually I wanted to start contributing more to the business.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I had to find something to do that I couldn't hurt myself with. I'm fairly easily distracted so my father didn't think it was a good idea for me to work with saws or drills, and I'm still a bit afraid of hot things... Anyway, paper mache is neither sharp or hot so it seemed like a safe bet.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

It's all enjoyable. I mean, it's work, but it's also squishy, and I get to paint things in bright colors.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I have no idea. I must not be that creative. Maybe Dragonfruit... because it's colorful and different.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I'd like to try casting jewelry... rings specifically. I've got the equipment, but haven't invested the money in any gold and silver yet. I just don't think that there are enough people casting their own designs anymore.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

No messages here. Just colorful home decor.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you're good at, don't use other people's ideas, and always make sure to pay yourself a decent wage.

Thanks, Madeline for taking the time to share your thoughts and colorful creations with us! If you'd like to see more of Madeline's colorful, whimsical work, be sure to visit her Etsy shop by clicking on either the photos or the shop link below the photos. Madeline also has a blog you might want to visit. The link is below. I always like to get a better insight into the artist behind the creations...!

MADELINE'S BLOG

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MELINDAMILKSHAKE

MS SECRET FACE by MELINDAMILKSHAKE

If you are looking for some unique characters and vintage clothing, you'll be sure to find them out on MELINDAMILKSHAKE Etsy shop. Here is a little info about "MS SECRET FACE" provided by her creator, Melinda.

Ms. Secret Face is a plushy handmade doll. She is meant to be a decorative doll for adults. Ms. Secret Face is about 12 inches long and nine inches wide (across her arms). She would make a great gift! Like all my other dolls, she has been hand sewn and crafted with unique detail and wonderful, eye-catching materials. She has been carefully put together and all of her fantastic parts are securely fastened. Ms. Secret Face has a particularly interesting personality and she is quite popular! However, Ms. Secret face is in the witness protection program, therefore I can not offer any information about her history. I can say she is very intelligent and somewhat mischievous (after all, there is a reason she is in the witness protection program!). She is looking for new friends and would be a great addition to any household. She can't wait to meet you!

WELCOME, Melinda of MELINDAMILKSHAKE, and hear what she has to say about herself and her work.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Ever since I can remember I have been fascinated with fashion and vintage items. I have been collecting, trading and hunting for unique clothing for quite a lot of years. As old clothes go, they often need repair, so I taught myself to sew out of necessity. Currently I've been inspired to make my dreams a reality and take the clothing to the next level. I have been working on revamping vintage finds and also expanding my skills to create my own clothing. Those sketches from junior high won't go to waist after all! As far as the dolls go, they are from a more spontaneous creative force, and they do have a force of their own. One day last winter I watched a movie called 'Blood Tea'. In that movie some mice made a doll of a woman. Something about the rustic way in which they made their stitches was very alluring to me. I sat down and made my first doll in 15 minutes and I haven't stopped since. Although my dolls are really quite different from the one in the movie, I do have to credit the movie for lending me a new creative itch.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I don't recall ever making a conscious decision to work with fabric, to sew, etc. Since I was a little girl, I have been drawn to these sort of things, so I guess you could say that I followed my instinct.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

Sewing by hand is incredibly enjoyable for me. It allows me to sit in a quiet place and do nothing except focus on each stitch. I see it as a Zen sort of meditation. It helps me to relax and be in the moment, and teaches me to focus on one thing at a time.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable to describe your art/craft, what would you choose and why?

I would choose a strawberry to represent my craft, because they are vibrantly red, with just enough contrasting green, and also because I like the texture of strawberries. Fabric the texture of a strawberry would rock!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity" what would that be, and why?

Two other facets of creativity that I have always been intersted in are watercolor painting and music. I have painted and played the drums since I was a child. With painting I feel that I am able to really explore my fascination with color, and with music I feel that I am able to translate pure energy into something that speaks to people. I also love painting because it is so myriad, you can't sew an abstract object the way you can paint an abstract picture. I also love drumming and music for its abstract qualities; with music you can communicate pure emotion to people, you can communicate all of those fleeting and surreal things that can only be felt, and cannot be said.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

I would like to encourage people to go with their gut instincts. It seems that so often people are reserved, there are things they would like to do, say, create, wear, etc......and they don't do these things for whatever reason. I hope that the items I create emit a sense of joy and appreciation for life. I want to make people laugh, smile, and think about what sort of fun they can have in their every day life. This is why my items have a child-like quality to them. People sometimes keep the best parts of themselves hidden away. My creations are an expression of the best parts of myself, and I want to share that with others. This is about a balance between listening to who you really are and doing those things that you itch to do, but at the same time not taking yourself too seriously.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Try not to pay atention to trends and big selling items, do what you feel drawn to do, don't force anything.

MELI NDA, thanks for the delightful interview. It was fun and interesting to learn about you and your work! Great answers! Be sure to stop in to see what else MELINDAMILKSHAKE has to offer. You can also learn more about Melinda by visiting her IndiePublic and Flickr sites listed below.

FLICKR

INDIE PUBLIC

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - FANTASY CREATIONS 1

I can certainly understand why Becky of FANTASY CREATIONS 1 said it was very hard to choose a favorite piece to have out here on her feature!! FANTASY CREATIONS 1 has absolutely gorgeous jewelry creations in her shop, so be sure to pay it a visit! I thought this necklace was particularly "striking", so I have also included a photo showing the entire necklace. Welcome, Becky, as she shares a bit of her thoughts and ideas about herself and her creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I NEED to create things, so my mind never stops thinking of interesting new ideas. I actually do several crafts, but I'll only talk about two here. I design stuffed animals based on photographs of real animals or fantasy animals I visualize in my mind. I began designing them when a friend of my mother gave me some scraps of fake fur. My first designs were little toy mice and bunnies. Next I designed a tiny horse. I also create unusual bead embroidered jewelry. I have always loved to sew and I bought a video tape that taught me basic bead embroidery and peyote stitch. I learned more advanced techniques by experimenting and reading craft books and magazines.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

Pretty shiny things attract me, and I'm addicted to collecting and designing with beautiful beads. I work with a polymer clay or stone cabachon. I really like creating a unique piece with symbolic power.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I enjoy all aspects of creating bead embroidered jewelry. My favorite part is letting the design evolve and feeling like I am "in the zone" creatively. Selecting the right beads and the right look for the piece is done intuitively. I read a Psychology Today magazine article around 1980 that said non-creative people could achieve alpha brain waves through meditation, but when trying to be creative their brainwaves were in Beta. Creative people were just the opposite. Their brains went into alpha waves when they were creating and they experienced meditation as stressful. I support their findings. The more creative I am the more time seems to stop and the more deeply relaxed I become.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be, and why?

If I had to choose one more art form?... I would like to design picture/landscape art quilts based on photographs I've taken or images in my mind. I have several books about them and I bought interesting scraps of fabric. I'm actually working on a fabric book (not to sell) that honors the TV show (1988) Beauty and the Beast. It was the most amazing show full of longing, romance, poetry, and incredibly beautiful classical music.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

My message would be "Love." Love others, love yourself, love God, love life, love living things, love this beautiful world.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Advice? Find the thing that you enjoy doing so much that you can forget to eat and sleep. Follow your bliss. Become really good at it. Price your work with respect for your time and skills. Treat your customers really well. Ship quickly. Don't expect to make much money from it.

Becky, thanks again for taking the time to share your wonderful jewelry and your thoughts with us! Treat yourself to some really "eye catching" jewelry by visiting FANTASY CREATIONS 1. If you have any questions, I am sure Becky would be more than happy to answer them for you.

Becky must be one busy lady, as she also has two other shops on Etsy, and also a store on Ebay, so you just might want to pay a visit to those links below. One shop sells: Commercial Craft Supplies: Fabric Books DVDs & Patterns, and the other shop sells patterns for very delightful stuffed animals.

FANTASY CREATIONS

STARFIREHAWK

FANTASY EBAY STORE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - Magickal Realism Natural Perfumery by Diana Rajchel

BOOK DUST...now that is a very original name for a perfume!! This is how Diana of NATURAL PERFUMERY on Etsy explains how she came up with this name for one of her perfumes...

One of my favorite places, everywhere I live, is the library. Even if I can find comfort nowhere else, I will in a building designated for housing row after row of books. It's the calming scent of paper and aging ink, the comfort of ancient glues and gathering dust as books wait for me to find them and open my mind to their adventures. This is a highly complex fragrance, with an herbal accord of dill and chamomile, layered in with notes of magnolia, lotus, cypress and cardamom and a gentle hint of honeysuckle and verbena.

The ingredients sound very magical and exciting to me! Let's learn more about Diana, and how she got started in her "perfumery" business.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Perfumery was an accident, mostly. I was looking to raise book money post-college for my occult studies, and taking stock of what I had on hand that I understood well enough to work with, I went with creating ritual oils. I posted a listing for a "custom" blend on Ebay, and the very first person who bid had a request for 7-8 items, and was very pleased with my work. It mushroomed from there into something that took over my entire kitchen. EventuallyI dropped the ritual oil and went straight on into authentic perfume, because aesthetic became a magical practice in and of itself.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I think that really, it chose me. A lot of people in my line of practice had an interest in herbs and oils, but didn't really understand them; I had a good intuitive and practical knack for the plants and the chemicals I was working with, along with a lifelong special relationship to plant life. It's not just my ideas of how something should smell, but the continued cyclic process of the plants captured in the formulas.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love all of it, but I think most of all the conceptualization. Determining what scent wants to be expressed and what chemicals want to express it, is a joyous discovery (I'm very animistic in my process.) Also, the concepts that are expressed through me are so much more interesting than what I was used to seeing in perfume. Sex is beyond great, but bottling up humour is really fun, too.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I'd go with a pomgranite - fraught with mystery, a few blind spots, and stuff you can't use right away is part of the nature of the perfuming trade. But ultimately, very rich and well worth the effort, if only you're willing to get just a bit messy in the process of discovery.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Each bottle really does have its own message, and the way it interacts with a person's individual chemistry is part of that conversation. I think if I had to choose a single message, it would be that it's important to get out of your head and back into your body; it's a fuller experience that leads to a richer life.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Have something else to do. Crafting and art creation is super important. However, if all you do with your time is your art - well, that way lies madness, repetition and an eventual loss of originality. I (try to) work out, cook, clean, write, and I get into a few fan forums here and there (mainly Daria and Doctor Who, some In Plain Sight.) This is what works for me, and it keeps me balanced as well as proving to be a font of inspiration for me. It's not goofing off unless you do it all day - in fact, scheduling some goof off time, you will find yourself much saner and more balanced.

Diana...thanks for taking the time to give us a "peek" into what makes you tick as a "perfumery" artist. Great answers! Be sure to visit MAGIKAL REALISM NATURAL PERFUMERY to see what other intriguing fragrances Diana has developed. Also, click on any of the links below to learn more about Diana and her other areas of interest.

WEB PAGE

FACE BOOK

FLICKR

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - La Mia Designs

WELCOME , Stephanie of La Mia Designs out on Etsy. As Stephanie states below, she likes to work with a lot of different mediums, so she not only creates jewelry, as seen in her Etsy shop, but also designs handbags, totes, pillows, pet items and a lot more. To see all of Stephanie's original designs be sure to visit all her links below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always had a passion for creating in multiple mediums...the interest in working for myself and loving what I do, drove me to create my product.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I have always loved sewing, ever since I was young, so the medium felt like a perfect fit. I love all different types of fabric and prints and just thrive off of it!

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love every aspect of the creating process...especially drawing and designing the item.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would it be and why?

I think my product is most like a zucchini because you can fix them so many ways, and they are always great! My product is like that, everything is different, but when it comes to the end product it is fabulous!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be and why?

Watercolor painting is the other medium I would use to display my creativity because it flows freely and allows for any creation.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

My product is of the finest quality and artistry. Every piece is one of a kind.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If you are passionate about something-DO IT! Persistance, motivation and love for your creations are a must to be successful!

THANKS, Stephanie for taking the time to share your thoughts and creations with us. Don't forget to not only visit LaMia Designs on Etsy, but also visit Stephanies web page where you will find Home Accents, Handbags, and even special items for your pets.

BLOG

LA MIA DESIGNS WEB PAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - EISSA

I am always delighted to see all the creative jewelry artists out on Etsy, and Mary Ann is right in there with them!! What a charming necklace, which she says is a part of her "Chandelier" series of necklaces. Very magical! To see what other great pieces Mary Ann has in her shop, and to read how she designed the above necklace, be sure to visit EISSA, but first let's learn a little about how Mary Ann got started with her jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I've always been involved in creative endeavors, but came to jewelry design 4 years ago when I moved to Los Angeles from New York. My Mother suffers from Alzheimer's disease and my brother and I decided we wanted to take care of her at our family home in Los Angeles. I packed up my "life", my dog and 2 cats, left New York to start our new life. Because caring for my Mom prevented me from having a full-time job, I started making jewelry from my home. Both decisions have enhanced my life immeasurably.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I tend to wear black most of the time and loved to accessorize with interesting, artistic pieces. When the opportunity presented, I decided to design jewelry that reflected what I would buy for myself.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
Not having a set plan when I start a piece, but to become inspired by the material and letting the piece evolve . I like the freedom to create different styles and not being confined to one particular look.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Organic European Salad Mix because it’s not boring. Instead there are many different colors, textures and sophisticated flavors and yet there is cohesiveness when you see all the greens mixed together.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I’ve also created mixed media decorative boxes. I love working with different materials, textures, and techniques.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
That I create from my heart and my work brings me much joy. It is an extension of my personality, (always looking for something new and interesting to challenge me).

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
To maintain joy in the process even on the days when you’re not inspired.

MARY ANN...thanks for taking the time to share your beautiful jewelry, and your thoughts with us. May you always be inspired to keep creating! Now....be sure to visit Mary Ann's EISSA shop out on Etsy by clicking on either the photos below to go directly to that creation, or to click on the EISSA link below the photos.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SUNRISE DESIGNS

Amazonite is considered a soothing stone that offers confidence and improves self worth. It is called the "hope stone" because it inspires confidence and hope.

The above description is only a partial explanation taken from this item's description out on Dawn's SUNRISE DESIGNS shop on Etsy. I really love the soft, cool colors of this exquisite bracelet. It definitely projects a "soothing" aura. I'm happy to have Dawn out here on DZFANTASY, as a featured artist, so that we can learn a little bit about her and her wonderful designs. Read below to hear what Dawn has to say about herself and her work. Don't forget to visit SUNRISE DESIGNS to see what other pieces of beautiful jewelry you might find out there.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I love to create things with my hands. whether it be cross stitch, handmade cards, jewelry designing , or crafting in general, I am always inspired by nature.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I haven't chosen one medium. I enjoy experimenting.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love seeing an idea come to life.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I'd have to say a cherry. A cherry is simple and crisp on the outside.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I would love to learn how to paint and work with glass.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Everything is beautiful to someone!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Create from the heart and be confident.

Thank you, Dawn, for taking the time to share your thoughts and work with us. To see more of Dawn's beautiful work, click on the links below.

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - THAT IS SO CUTE

WELCOME, Harriet and her THAT IS SO CUTE shop out on Etsy! Here is an explanation of how Harriet chose her name for her shop.

I came up with my store name because I knew I wanted to incorporate that phrase my sisters and I always use when we shop together: "That's so cute!" But in my store C.U.T.E. is an acronym that stands for: .....C = Creative..........U = Unique..........T = Trendy..........E = Enticing.....

Read below to learn more about Harriet, and find out what she has to say about how she got started in making her delightful creations! Don't forget to visit "THAT IS SO CUTE", when you have finished. You can click on any photo to go directly to that item in her shop, or click on the THATSSOCUTE link below the photos!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I learned knitting as a young girl through the 4-H program. I think what really peaked my interest at that young age was knitting a complicated sweater with lots of cables, and fancy stitches, including popcorn stitches. We entered that sweater at a local fair and I won a special ribbon for it! I was hooked! Mom tried to teach me sewing, but I was terrible. I'm not sure if that's because I'm left handed and we didn't have any lefty scissors, but I couldn't even cut a straight line! So, I stuck with knitting. Learned crochet later but I prefer knitting.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I haven't really decided yet! I love trying new things. About 7 years ago, one of my friends started taking "paint class" from a previous teacher of hers. I loved the work she was doing so I joined as well. We meet once a week from September through May. Our teacher is so creative, we never know what she'll be trying next: acrylics...glass paint...pastels...watercolors...fabric paint....etc. Plus, you never know what she'll be painting on next! It might be old cupboard doors, a vinyle purse, dollar store mugs, or anything that is paintable. It's so inspiring to see what she tries! It has made me look at ordinary items in a whole new way...as in "what could this become?". I love looking through magazines and finding inspiration. I've recently started beading. I'm almost ready to start playing around with polymer clay...that sounds so fun!

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I enjoy just thinking about trying new things. I see something in a magazine or online and immediately think...how can I change this up? Everything can be new and different. While I may make a dozen of something, each is unique.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I actually think I would describe my art/craft as an onion. The onion (while not something one usually eats by itself) is something a chef will use in combination with many other things to create a feast. Just as I hope I use my talents to create a feast for my customers.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I think that if I could no longer create with my knitting needles, paint brushes, and other craft tools, I would love to use the written medium to display my creativity...I've always wanted to be a writer!

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Allow yourself to try new things...even if this means you may fail. Tis better to have tried and failed than to never have tried at all!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Keep learning new things! Read that article...take a class...take a chance...

Harriet, thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and your work. I have a feeling you will never run out of new mediums to try and new creative ideas!! You can also find out more about THATS SO CUTE by visiting Harriet's blog and Flickr.

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MIXOLOGY MAKEUP - The Healthy Makeup Alternative

WELCOME, Rae of MIXOLOGY MAKEUP. Read in Rae's own words how she got started creating her own line of makeup, and be sure to visit her MIXOLOGY MAKEUP shop out on Etsy. I'm sure Rae would be delighted to answer any questions you may have!


What led you to start creating your art/craft?
A few things - I have always wanted to do my own makeup line so a few years back I looked into what it would take to do it and discovered that having a company make it and package it is very expensive and what I would have to sell it for, I wouldn't even buy. So began the research and the learning process of making mineral makeup and Mixology was born! I was also having problems with my skin breaking out so I tried wearing foundations to cover it up and I would break out more cause I am super sensitive! So these two things really motivated me to learn more!

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I needed a creative outlet to compensate for my desk job at the time and this filled the void and took on a life of its own, and brought me to this place today! Makeup has always been a live form of art for me too when appling it on people, and making it just was a natural extension of that too.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
Oh the eye shadows are my favorite! I love colors and inventing shades - lol, I have over 50 some odd eye shadows and more that are not listed!

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Hmmmmm..... I would choose a starfruit! 1 - its a cool name, like Mixology ;) 2- they are kinda rough on the outside but once you open them up and taste the fruit it's all sweet, kinda like moi!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Acting - its what started me in this love of makeup, I always had to do my own for shows/film, and then eventually for everyone else. Acting really gave me confidence and brought me out of the shy shell I was in.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
Beauty does not have to be painful! Or harmful for that matter... I strive to make quality makeup at affordable prices that is free of harmful junk so we stop putting it into our bodies! Also, that we can take something that is considered vain in the world's eyes and do something positive with it, like sponsoring a Water Well in Africa through makeup sales on our site.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Love what you do! Don't sell the house when you have a day or week without sales and always put your customers first, they help you become the company/artist you want to be! Oh and don't burn your eyes out in the forums - they are addicting!

RAE, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and ideas with us! I LOVED your answers and was happy to learn a bit about you and your work. I especially like the idea that your products don't have any of the harmful ingredients that a lot of products do!! It is also wonderful that you are donating a portion of each of your sales for a well in Africa!! Great job! Be sure to visit MIXOLOGY MAKEUP by clicking on the links below!

MIXOLOGY MAKEUP BLOG

STONEWOOD VILLAGE ART FAIR

This coming weekend, August 23rd and 24th, I will be exhibiting at the

STONEWOOD VILLAGE ART SHOW

in

BROOKFIELD, WI

featuring 90+Wisconin and midwest artists!

Stonewood Village is a unique group of shops and restaurants with winding paths and wooded areas. If you live in the area, I'd love to have you visit me and see all my new "fantasy" creations! My booth is #10. Of course, I'm praying it doesn't rain that weekend, as I always get a big puddle in the front of my booth if it does.

Stonewood Village is located on Capitol Drive, just west of Calhoun Road in Brookfield, WI. Very is to find, as the show is visible from Capitol Drive.

This juried art show offers jewelry, garden art, glass, photography, painting, ceramics, fiber and more.

SHOW HOURS:

Saturday - August 23 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday - Augusut 24 - 10 a.m. - 5.m.

FREE admittance

RAIN OR SHINE...!

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

I will be doing a review of the show, and hope to have some photos.

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - LUCKY'S LUXURY ARTS AND CRAFTS

Kelly has some really fantastic photos in her LUCKY'S LUXURY ARTS AND CRAFTS shop out on Etsy. She took them on her trip through China. Isn't the panda a great shot!!

WELCOME, Kelly, and read what she has to say about herself and her photography'

Hi there!

My name is Kelly, and I'm a 24 year old woman from the beautiful state of Minnesota. I was born and raised in Minnesota and I'm sure I'll live here my entire life. I graduated in 2006 from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a BA in East Asian Studies and Philosophy and minors in Communication Studies and Religious Studies. I love to travel and have visited many US States but have also traveled internationally to Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, Canada, and China. I hope to do some more traveling in the future.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I took a trip to China in 2004, through the East Asian Studies program at my university. I took many beautiful photos while I was there and I shared them with one of my close friends who recommended that I sell them on Etsy.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

Well before I left for my trip I was lucky enough to receive an awesome camera from my mother for Christmas, so that was obviously what I took with me on my trip.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I really like being able to look back at my photos and realize how lucky I was to be able to take such a wonderful trip, and I also love being able to share my work with other people.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I would have to choose a cucumber because to me cucumbers are so refreshing and have such a unique taste. They can quench your thirst while also being filling.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I make many other crafts that I'm not currently selling in my Etsy store, for example: knitting, crochet, cross stitch, paper crafts (ATC's and scrapbooking), and jewelry making. I hope to have some of those items in my Etsy store in the future.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Make life beautiful.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don't let people bring you down, and keep the people who support you close because they mean more to you than you know. Also never give up, always hold your head high, and be proud of your creations.

KELLY, thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and ideas with us. How "lucky" you were to get to take such a wonderful trip. All the sights you must have seen. It is so great that you captured some of them. If you'd like to see more photos of this China trip, be sure to visit Kelly's shop by clicking on the photos and link below!

2nd "WEAR A FAIRY" GIVEAWAY

This is my "2nd WEAR A FAIRY" GIVEAWAY!

Pin Size: Approx. 2.75" X 2.75"

This GIVEAWAY will be running from AUGUST 16TH - SEPTEMBER 16th - 12 midnight CDT!

All you have to do to win is leave a comment in this post! You can leave your email, if you wish, but it is not necessary. It would just help to speed up notifying the winner, but NOT a requirement. It also would be fun to hear why you'd like to win this "giveaway"! BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY OTHER "GIVEAWAYS" IN THE RIGHT HAND COLUMN UNDER DZFANTASY GIVEAWAYS!

On August 17th, 2008, a WINNER'S name will be randomly picked from all the entries! The "winner's" name will be posted out here on DZFANTASY, and winner will have 5 days in which to contact me via email at dzfairies@msn.com to claim the "fairy face" pin. If the winner doesn't get in touch with me within the 5 days, a new name will be randomly drawn from the remaining entries.

The drawing is for one of my original designed, "butterfly fairy" face pins! This "butterfly fairy" is full of bright colors, and will go with just about any outfit...! These pins are also fun to wear on a hat or attach to a purse for a bit of magic wherever you go!

Her face is 100% silk, which I have hand-drawn, needle-sculpted and hand-painted. The face has been sprayed with a matte finish sealer, so you won't have to worry about it running or smearing if you should get caught in a bit of rain. The wings are lightly stuffed with acrylic fiberfill, top-stitched into a design, and have inner wire armatures.

Her colorful hairdo is a fun, funky yarn, with "poofs" of color in the texture. Her colorful antennae were designed using tiny, colorful glass seed beads, and a 4mm Swarovski crystals at the top of each antennae.

The pin's back is a half-circle of texturized brass to which the wings and the pin clasp have been cemented to.

SHE IS LOTS OF FUN, AND YOU WILL BE SURE TO RECEIVE A LOT OF COMPLIMENTS!

WINNER OF THE "WEAR A FAIRY" DRAWING - MOON MAIDEN

THE WINNING ENTRY FOR THE ABOVE FREE GIVEAWAY "WEAR A FAIRY" IS

MOON MAIDEN

MOON MAIDEN's entry of 7/24/08, was randomly drawn from the 49 comments entered in this giveaway. CONGRATULATIONS, MOON MAIDEN.

Thank you all for your lovely comments, and for taking the time to enter this giveaway. I will be having another "WEAR A FAIRY" giveaway soon, so do stop back and enter. You could be the next lucky winner.

In addition to the "WEAR A FAIRY" giveaways, I always have a monthly giveaway for one of my fiber sculpted fantasy creations. August's giveaway is the "STAR FAIRY", so if you aren't already entered, be sure to do so. I'm still deciding what September's monthly giveaway will be!

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS

WELCOME, Alison of ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS!! If you love unique, beautiful jewelry, be sure to visit ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS on Etsy! I'm happy to have Alison out here as a featured artist on DZFANTASY! Below, Alison will share a bit of herself, and her thoughts on what makes her "tick" as a person and a jewelry artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have been making jewelry for over 16 years. It wasn't until my mom inspired me to make a necklace for her in the summer of 2006 that got me motivated and excited about making jewelry again. It had been a while since I had made something for myself too, so I made a necklace for my mom as well as an identical one for myself. I was so happy making it, and with the results that I just couldn't stop myself from making more. Before I knew it I had friends coming over to look at my new jewelry designs, so after their overwhelming feedback this ‘hobby’ soon became Alison Kelley Designs and a full-time business.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I've always loved beads and it was natural for me to go back to making jewelry with them. My favorite materials are Sterling Silver, Copper, Gemstone Beads, Pearls, Swarovski Crystals, Natural Beads, Shell Beads and Glass Beads.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

Jewelry making is truly my passion. I enjoy every aspect of it. Getting an idea in my mind, sometimes even in my dreams. I imagine the piece already made. and then going through the process of putting my design together step by step is invigorating. Once my creation is complete I can't help but be so proud. Maybe I have that artistic need to create and in creating something it brings me happiness.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I would choose "fruit". Not only do I love fruit, but all their color variety. Color is very important to me. It makes me feel alive and happy. Without color I would be drained of life and happiness.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be, and why?

Painting! I used to paint a long time ago, it was relaxing and satisfying.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

My goal is to offer beautiful handcrafted pieces of jewelry that are as unique as they are beautiful. Handmade is a forgotten art to many, showing the importance of it is an endless journey. I myself lost that for a while. After having three children and living in such a busy world, it is easy to forget the beauty of making something yourself or cherishing another person's creations.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be true to yourself and your art. Don't let the busy world crush your creativity. Flourish it and expand it by continuously learning your art.

THANKS, Alison, for taking the time to share your thoughts and your work with all of us! I enjoyed getting to know a bit about you and how you feel about your chosen form of creativity. Keep on creating!! Below you will links to Alison's Etsy shop and other place where you can view her work. If you are looking for beautiful "bridal" jewelry, be sure to click on Alison's BRIDAL JEWELRY link below.

ALISON'S BLOG

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ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS BRIDAL JEWELRY