FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ALTERITY - Antique Button Jewelry

WELCOME, Lisa of ALTERITY - Antique Button Jewelry out on Etsy. While looking through Lisa's shop, ALTERITY, I happened across the above earrings, and was quite taken with their design. If you pay a visit to ALTERITY, I'm sure you will be amazed at what Lisa has created out of antique buttons, without damaging the buttons themselves. First, let's learn a bit more about this multi-talented artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I was actually a closet beader, beading for friends and family for gifts. Work and family began to slowly take over my life, and just recently, my husband has allowed me to leave the work behind, devoting my time to family and craft. Oh, seeing as thought I collect antique clothing buttons as a hobby, I began working them into my jewelry in the fall of 2007. In January this year, I began my business!

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

This was tough. I paint and sew, too, in addition to making jewelry. I opened Alterity on Etsy to originally sell my button jewelry, but found my other items infiltrating it (quilts, paintings, journals, etc.) Just a few months ago, I decided to open Alterity Art (which is my legal business name) on Etsy, to sell all the other stuff and keep Alterity exclusively as an antique button jewelry site, as well as my journals.

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

Everything! The purchasing, the designing, the creating, the listing, the selling and finally, the shipping. This is one job I will never grow to hate or be bored with!

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

Definitely a Pomegranite. Not all people find my jewelry as beautiful as I do (like the peel on a pomegranite), however, take the peel off and who can resist the shiny, sweet delicate seeds inside!

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

Easy - Painting. There are just some ways you can't express yourself in jewelry!

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

Elegance of the victorian era and the flippant fun of 40's and 50's (well, at least the swing music of the 40's...wars are never fun!)

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do and make what you like...those with your same tastes will find you. Don't give up waiting though, your patience will pay off!

LISA, thanks for sharing your unique, creative jewelry with us! You can visit ALTERITY by clicking on the photos below to go directly to that item in Lisa's shop, or click on the ALTERITY link below the photos to see all the times in the shop. I've also added Lisa's other Etsy shop link below.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SOUTHERN PLEASURES

I'm delighted to welcome Tenisha and her shop SOUTHERN PLEASURES as a featured Etsy shop out here on DZFANTASY. Everyone loves soaps, and I continue to be amazed at all the variety and shapes offered on Etsy. Be sure to visit SOUTHERN PLEASURES to see what delightful soaps are available for your enjoyment! SOUTHERN PLEASURES offers Essential Oil Soaps, Fragrance Oil Soaps, Lip Balms and more!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I first became acquainted with handcrafted soap when I was a member of a popular message board on the net for women. One of the members there started a thread about some Christmas soaps she had made. I remember looking in awe at the beautiful soaps she created and started to question if she really made them. I honestly thought soap was something only major companies were capable of doing. From that point onward I became very interested in learning how I could also make soap. Reflecting back on this, I was looking for something to occupy my time as I had just moved to a new city and didn't know anyone. Soap making seemed like it could be a fun process to pass the time. In several months, I did a lot of research on how to make soap while I made batches. A lot of what I did in the beginning was really a lot of trial and error with many failed batches as a result.

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

Once I got the basic skills down, I started to research advanced techniques and tried to implement them. The more I practiced what I was learning, the better my skills became. I always wanted to swirl soap because it looked really cool. What I failed to realize at the time it's not an easy task initially. Eventually things started to flow on their own as I gained experience. Lately I find myself inspired with texturizing soaps to create interesting patterns.

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

I love designing soap with many bright colors just as much as I enjoy creating essential oil blends to scent the soap with. There are just so many limitless combinations one can do. Plus colorful soaps in my shower keep me happy.

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

Soap making to me can be compared to a bowl of grapes. No matter what season, you can almost always find fresh grapes to enjoy. Soap is a personal care product that is always in season because it's a basic necessity. The grapes on a vine resemble all the different varieties of soaps one can create for others to enjoy.

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

Definitely an art museum. I say this because there are so many talented soap makers in the world who blow my mind with their creativity with colors and patterns. Many have shattered this industry and gone beyond the norm when it comes to conventional soap making. I have surprised myself within the realm that I have progressed to within the past couple of years. Soap to me is a major art form while at the same time still being functional.

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

Continue to support handmade items and their creators. Much time and planning has gone into the creation of their items. Handcrafted soap is truly a luxury. If you haven't tried it at some point you really are missing out!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Always strive to create the best product or item you possibly can. Don't cut any corners to sacrifice quality. Believe wholeheartedly that your product is the best of the best. Have confidence in yourself, don't be afraid to take a risk to try something new.

Thanks, Tenisha, for sharing your thoughts and wonderful products with us. Don't forget now....pay a visit to SOUTHERN PLEASURES by clicking on the links below.

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DZFANTASY'S "CHRISTMAS FAIRY" Face Pin GIVEAWAY!

CHRISTMAS FAIRY FACE PIN

(Her red/green hairdo sparkles and glistens, with Swarovski crystals as accents)

I am running this "special" Christmas Fairy Face pin giveaway for only two weeks....so be sure to enter it now. Read below for the rules of this "special" giveaway:

START DATE: November 29th

END DATE: Decenber 13, 2008 - 12 Midnight CDT

Prize: 1

ELIGIBILTY: Open worldwide

Value: $18.00

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment in this post.

2. You MUST leave your first name and email address! I need to have a means of contacting you, so that the prize can be shipped out as soon as possible. PLEASE leave a means of contact. You can enter a comment as ANONYMOUS, but be sure to leave your first name, etc.

A winner will be randomly selected from all those entries who have left a comment, AND a means of contact. I want this to go to the WINNER, so they get it before Christmas. THANKS IN ADVANCE for following this requirement on this particular "giveaway"!

DZFANTASY will be having several more new "GIVEAWAYS" starting December 1, 2008, so stop back to see what they are. As always, all giveaways are listed in the right hand column of the blog, under DZFANTASY GIVEAWAYS.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL AND THANKS FOR STOPPPING BY!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - KRISTAL from TINY BIRD ARTS

WELCOME, Kristal and her Tiny Bird Arts shop on Etsy. Tiny Bird Arts has everything from personalized greeting cards to delightful, tree ornaments, so be sure to stop by for a visit, after you learn a little bit more about Kristal, and what makes her tick as a creative person.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?


I've always enjoyed drawing funky, fun & cute things. I got tired of shopping for nice gifts for people that really fit their personalities and were unique, and ending up empty handed. So I started giving gifts made from my drawings and find that people really appreciate something extra special made just for them. Since my day job is something that I would eventually like to be out of, I decided to turn what I love doing into my way out of Cubicleville. I started selling my creations on Etsy since I stumbled upon it a few months ago, and it seems like a good home for things extra special and personal. My shop is split between cards and ornaments right now; after the holidays it will just be cards and paper products.


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


My day job is very computer oriented. As much as I like drawing things by hand, drawing them on the computer has a lot of advantages for me, given my impatience. It's easy to quickly move parts of a drawing around, change their colors, or combine them in different ways in a snap. Currently I use Fireworks MX to do my designs. As for creating cards, I think cards are a fun way to keep in touch. I love getting things in the mail that aren't bills or ads. There's a giddy excitement that I feel when I see a handwritten addressed envelope that I know is from someone I care about. I want to give people a unique way to send that excitement to the ones they love.


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


I love to give a customized set of cards to someone. Seeing their face when they immedeately recognize that the cards match their style and will be used happily to send love, hope, comfort, or joy to someone else makes the time it takes to create those things so worth it. I also really enjoy when buyers tell me they've received their purchase, and they absolutely love it.


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


If nuclear disaster hit and the world was without electricity, and I couldn't use the computer, I'd have to stick to drawing with pencil, ink, Prismacolors, and watercolor pencils.


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


The tag line for my shop is "personalized designs for the people you love." I want my creations to convey that people should take time to let others know how they feel, to comfort others, to be considerate and kind. I know I know.....big lofty goals for some little bitty cards.


What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?


I'm fairly new to selling my creations, but for me it's important to be true to myself. I have many different styles that I like to create in, and my Etsy shop reflects that. I don't think all the effort it takes to do any art is worth it if you're not doing what you love and doing it in the style that reflects you. Hopefully this translates to art that is more beautiful and strikes a chord with people, and of course makes some money along the way.


Kristal, great interview! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with us. I hope you work your way out of Cubicleville...I've been there, done that...I and was SO happy to leave it all behind! Best of luck to you!


Be sure to visit TINY BIRD ARTS by clicking on the links below. Also, here is a photo of Kristal's ornaments that she now has available in her shop.

TINY BIRD ARTS BLOG

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MAGICAL, WHIMSICAL GIFTS FROM DZFANTASY!

DZFANTASY'S

FANTASICAL SALE!

If you are looking for truly special, one-of-a-kind, magical gifts, and something that will be cherished for years to come....now is the time to visit my DZFANTASY shop! I'm having a 10% off sale...on ANY creation in my shop!! In addition, with any purchase over $25.00, you will also receive FREE shipping...USA AND INTERNATIONAL!

I am offering this sale for a limited time only...

November 28 - December 3, 2008, ending at 12 MIDNIGHT CDT.

10% off and free shipping can result in some good savings!

At DZFANTASY, You will find, fairies, mermaids, "fairy face" pins, and many more of my original designed fantasy creations. Some are designed to hang on the wall or dance from a ribbon or clear fishing line. Others are sculpted to sit.

Below you will see just a few of the creations I currently have available in my DZFANTASY shop.

CAT FAIRY FACE PINIf you have a person who loves "cats and fairies" on your list...then this whimsical, pin might be just the thing!

COLORFUL, FAIRY FACE PIN

CELESTIAL FAIRY

GORGEOUS WALL STYLE MERMAID

To learn more about the creations shown above and to see what else is available for this sale...be sure to visit my DZFANTASY SHOP by clicking on the links below! If you have ANY questions, don't hesitate to contact me.

Delightful "Reading Fairy" scene.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - HOUSE OF MOUSE

Let's welcome, Lorraine, of HOUSE OF MOUSE out on Etsy! House of Mouse creations range from Jewelry, Fairie Accessories, Felted Bowls/Vessels and much more, so be sure to pay a visit. First, let's learn a bit more about the creative person behind HOUSE OF MOUSE.

What led you to start creating your art/craft

I don’t think there was anything in particular, but for as long as I can remember I have always leaned heavily to the artistic side of life. My parents were big influences. My Mum because she used to hand sew all the costumes I needed for Tap and Ballet recitals. Money was not abundant in our family, but I always relished the trips we made to the fabric store where Mum would have an eye for picking out a fabric from the sale bin and making it into something wonderful. My Dad turned his photography hobby into a career later in life. This was well before the age of digital cameras, and I remember spending hours in the red glow of the darkroom watching him making photos – I thought it was a truly magical experience.

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

I’m not sure I have decided! I love exploring all mediums and the only thing that limits me is trying to persuade my Husband to give up yet another corner of the house! My favourite mediums are those that have some unpredictability to them, where you can guide the outcome but not dictate it, so there are always some surprises (some good, some not so good, some incredible!). My two current favourites are wet felting and photography (not set-up, digitally manipulated photography, more the spontaneous, street photography variety).

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

That’s tough to say, I enjoy all aspects. However, I would say the most frustrating is having an idea and not being able to translate it into reality. I carry ideas around in my head for years sometimes before I figure out a way to bring them to life.

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

Definitely a pomegranate, it is full of hundreds of little juicy seeds, each one in it’s own unique compartment, but related to each other. It mirrors the many ideas I always have for any one concept!

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

Music. There are so many different genres to explore and each one invokes a different emotion to each individual person.

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

I like to think my pieces draw an emotional reaction, but I don't want to dictate what that might be. I find it really interesting to see the different messages that each individual draws from the same piece.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters? Listen to your heart.

Nurture ideas to their fullest. Experiment. Don’t go anywhere without a pen and scrap of paper!

Thanks, Lorraine, for taking the time to share your thoughts and creations with us. Be sure to visit HOUSE OF MOUSE by either clicking on the photos below, to go directly to that item, or the HOUSE OF MOUSE link below the photos.

FEATURED ARTIST - KIM and her VANILLA BEAN BABIES

I happened to meet Kim, a delightful doll artist, when she responded to my Angel Stories feature on DZFANTASY. It was then that I found out she creates these adorable, life-like, soft-sculpted babies which she calls her VANILLA BEAN BABIES. She so kindly agreed to take the time to let me do a feature of her and her "babies", so I hope you enjoy learning more about Kim and her VANILLA BEAN BABIES. You will see photos of some of Kim's "babies" throughout the interview. Kim used Judi Ward's, Newborn Alice patterns for the first baby shown here, and the last baby pictured. The rest of the babies were designed from her own patterns.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

My grandmother was an artist. She worked in lots of mediums and enjoyed doing crafts with me. I never got to spend a lot of time with her as she lived across the country from me, but I did get to spend a couple summers. She was also an art teacher. She did teach me sketching, and I used to admire her paintings. She spent some time trying to teach me to sew. I wish I had been more interested at the time. Well, like most women, I was busy building a career and raising children. Now that they are older and I have more time to myself, I decided to paint, specifically portraits. I also collect dolls, I love baby dolls, and when I saw my first cloth art doll I was hooked! I love, love, love the medium. I love all styles but especially, of course, babies. That was my aha moment. I could combine my love of dolls with my love of painting faces. The doll was a Jan Shackelford cloth baby. So began my obsession.

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

I dabbled in polymer clay sculpting and enjoyed it, but once I found cloth dolls I felt creatively fulfilled. I think they are so timeless. They are wonderful heirlooms and the more they are loved and handled, all the better.

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

I think it's a tie between dreaming up the next doll begging to come to life and the actual painting.

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

Great Question! Hmmm... Vegetable. I love fruit, but veggies are sturdy and beautiful as well, but not as delicate as many fruits tend to be. Fruits are pretty and an art in themselves the beauty of vegetables takes you by surprise.

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

Portraits in oil.

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

My thing is making dolls that are relatively simple in design yet have an aspect of realism. There really seems to be no limit to what a textile artist can achieve. I love the whimsical dolls, surreal dolls, amazingly creative dolls by other artists. They inspire me.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

I find that when I wait for the muse, never force the process from the start of the doll to the end, I am happy with the results. Sometimes, it can be days or weeks before I get my next doll started as I work out details in my head or life interferes and I try not to get frustrated. I want the best result because the vision is a gift. The doll is the reward.
Kim, thanks again for taking the time to share your "babies" with us. Kim told me she is working on several new "babies", and perhaps she will let me show them out here when they are "born". If you'd like to learn more about Vanilla Bean Babies click on the link below.

VANILLA BEAN BABIES

DZFANTASY'S ANGEL STORIES FEATURE

" There Are No Coincidences"

submitted by

Cindi

In the year 2000, my only brother passed away in May, and my Mom in September. That left my older sister, Dad and myself. That year I felt like I was in a fog with all of the hospital visits and the loss of two people that I loved very much.

On the night my Mom died, I was returning home from being with my dad and sister. It was around 3:00 a.m., and I was traveling through the country. First, I saw a car in a field, then my headlights shown on a young woman walking on the side of the road. I stopped and asked her if she needed any assistance. She seemed very happy to see me. She had been drinking and landed her car in the field. She didn't want to be discovered by the police because of her age and drinking. I asked her where she needed to go. She hopped into my van and we had a nice talk while I drove her home. I as able to express my grief over having lost my mom that evening. Then, I listend to her story. There was a reason that girl showed up when I was so grief stricken. It made me go outside of myself and realize that someone else was hurting.

Another strange experience happened to my dad and me. My mom was a triplet. One night when taking my dad back home after he had been at my home for the evening, we were stunned by what we saw. Frozen in the beam of the headlights were three young deer that still had their spots. We slowly crept up to them, but they didn't move. My dad was in awe because he had never seen three young deer like that before. All I could think about were the triplets, all 3 died within a year of each other. It took my sister awhile to tell me about her experience. It wasn't too many days after the death of both our mom and brother. Her husband was working the night shift. She was in bed, but still awake. A fog like mist started to fill up her room. Her mind and heart told her it was mom and Donny, but she was afraid to respond and eventually the fog drifted away.
The final experience was mine. Again, it was during a late night trip of mine. I was driving alone and saw something in the sky out of the corner of my eye. It was like large flakes of gold dancing in the sky. I know that it was a sign letting me know that they were okay. I had never seen anything like it before or since that night. There is something beyond this life. Something more wonderful than I ever imagined.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LITTLE GREEN SHOOT

Oscar

It is with great pleasure that I bring you this delightful 17 year old artist, and her charming creations. Welcome, Chloe' of Little Green Shoot, and one of her creations, Oscar, the cute little fellow above. You really must take the time to visit Little Green Shoot to see Chloe's other creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I wish I knew! My bears in particular were a complete suprise! At first it was my intention to recycle my leather offcuts into Journals. Then, just 3 weeks later I was looking down at my very first Leather & Suede Artist Bear - Toby. Craft in general though has always been a part of my life. It's one of those things you dont get a choice in. Busy hands, happy head. If it weren't for needles & thread I'd go crazy...although some days I'd swear it was the root of my insanity!

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

It was all a big accident really. I'd come across a large amount of leather offcuts that were soon to be discarded, and took them off their hands. It's such beautiful material, I hated the thought of it going to waste. I didn't know then what it would be used for -I just knew I could give it new life.

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

Everything! Every stitch & every snip! I hand sew all my bears. It's true it takes awhile, and my fingers protest - butIi love every minute of it. It's all worth it when you see their tiny faces staring back at you!

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

I think a kiwi. They may look a little different, feel a strange kinda fuzzy, but they're beautiful and sweet underneath it all - plus, they're green - which suits us!

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

Writng. I love escaping into my own world and exploring the wild imaginations of others. Writing can be powerful and beautiful, in fact it's to books I owe my imagination!

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

I guess if I had anything to say, it would be to let my work speak for itself . I'm 17, and I am happy sharing that with people. It's sad, but sometimes it gets a negative response. I've taught crafts to bright younglings and I'm a huge supporter of young talent!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love. Love what you do! It's important to learn new things, especially when you find yourself getting a little bored or frustrated. It'll give your creativity a kick, as well as your Making Mojo!

Chloe'...you are truly a delightful young lady, and I hope you keep on designing and creating your enchanting creations! Thank you for sharing your ideas and creativity out here with us, and also for taking the time to teach others! To learn more about Chloe' and her creations be sure to visit her Little Green Shoot shop on Etsy, and visiting her other links below.

ARTIST BEARS AND FRIENDS TEAM

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LeelaBijou Jewelry

VOLCANO RING

WELCOME, Maria, a jewelry artist from the Canary Islands, Spain. I love the colors and sparkle of the Volcano Ring... (I guess, I'm like Maria....I LOVE Swarovski crystal!)

Below is another photo of this ring, so that you can see the great colors! After reading what Maria has to say about herself and her delightful jewelry, be sure to visit LeelaBijou, as she has a wide selection of very beautiful jewelry in her shop....necklaces, rings, bracelets and more!

What led you to start creating your art/craftI have always loved arts?

When I was younger, I looked for different ways to express myself: painting, music, etc. One day, three years ago, I started making my own jewelry. Simple designs with wood beads, glass beads and silver. Many people showed interest in them and that encouraged me to go further. I learned new techniques, and I improved my old ones. Later, I included new materials in my work (like Swarovski crystals or Italian crystals) and I got a great response from my buyers. Two months ago, I joined Etsy. I have many ideas and projects for the future, and I hope they will become true.

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

People always told me I had an eye for jewels and picking colors. At first, I made very simple designs with very basic materials. I got excited with my first results, so I worked hard to learn new techniques. These techniques allowed me to work with better materials, like Italian crystals or natural gems. My favorite material is the Swarovski crystal.

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

Mixing different pieces and obtaining very surprising combinations. I love creating new shapes with hearts, flowers, butterflies,…A great feeling surrounds me when I create something someone considers special, something “unique” for them. I also love when I can combine my ideas with the ideas of more people. I have made a lot of custom orders through these years and I find them very interesting and funny too.

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

A cherry, because it looks beautiful, but it also tastes very good. It is not just appearance. I want to make beautiful jewelry, but I also want it to be of a high quality.

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

Music. I studied piano and I used to sing. Moreover, my grandmother was a professional singer. It´s a perfect medium to evoke deep feelings.

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

With my jewelry, I try to show creativity and colorful ideas. The world can be dark sometimes, but we can make it a little brighter.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If you like what you do, keep working on it. Don´t worry about the sales, and make your art with dedication and passion. Sooner or later, people will recognize your efforts.

Maria, beautiful work, great interview.....thanks again for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with everyone! Again, do take time visit Maria's shop LeelaBijou. She really does have some delightful jewlery. Christmas is just around the corner! You will also find links to her blog and Twitter below.

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MEET MY "LITTLEST ANGEL"....You could be the lucky winner of your "own special" angel!

I'm introducing my new angel design, as part of my DZFANTASY'S "ANGEL STORIES" feature, which I have recently started out here on DZFANTASY.

Anyone who is willing to share an "angel experience", by sending me a story/experience to put out here on DZFANTASY, will be entered into a monthly drawing for a "specially designed" angel, like the one above, where the winner will get to choose the colors (hair, body/wing fabric, face color) for the fairy.

For more information about how to enter, please click on the link below:

DZFANTASY ANGEL STORIES

Below are links to several stories which have already be posted out here on DZFANTASY.

"NEVER ALONE"

"CALMED BY AN ANGEL"

"THE HEALING ANGEL"

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - Nancy from goshery

If you are looking for unique, handmade paper goods...tags, greeting cards, etc....be sure to visit goshery on Etsy. Let's hear what goshery's owner, Nancy, has to say about her creations, and how she got started

What led you to start creating your art/craft

I have always loved paper and supplies – like so many other paper crafters, my favorite thing about each new school year as I was growing up was buying school supplies.. I started making cards about 20 years ago; they were so basic compared to some of the cards that you see now! There weren’t nearly as many options for paper crafters at that time, but I enjoyed it then as much as I do now. I was introduced to scrap booking 15 years ago and fell in love with that process as well.

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

I think it was my love of paper that made crafting paper goods such an easy choice for me. I have also done some sewing, but I find reading patterns to be a real challenge! Basket weaving was another endeavor and hats off to those artists; that is a real skill. I do some cross stitching too, but paper is definitely my favorite medium.

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

I definitely love color and my ideas often start with a piece of patterned paper that I find and want to use in a project. Coming up with the idea is probably both the most enjoyable and also the most frustrating! Sometimes the ideas really flow and other times I just can’t come up with an idea that works.

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

I would probably use an onion to describe my craft because I often use layers of paper on my projects. Like an onion, you can peel back the layers to see the bones of the project.

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

I would choose photography as another medium to display my creativity. I’m not an expert photographer by any means, but I love to take pictures and enjoy trying to find interesting subjects and angles. I especially enjoy nature photography and like to have my camera along as I travel because there are so many opportunities to take pictures. One of my favorite photos is a picture of a sunset that was taken one summer evening while I was out for a walk – hurray for cell phone cameras!

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

I enjoy the concept of simple living and simple times, so my items aren’t full of flair but instead tend to have a simple, clean look. My hope is that people connect with the colors and patterns that I use; I often leave the cards blank so that people can use them to send any message that they wish.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

I don’t know that I’m qualified to give anyone advice, but I encourage parents to do craft projects with their children. Kids tend to be very creative and don’t feel the need to be perfect, which lends to their creativity. It’s a great way for families to spend time together and can give kids another option besides watching TV or playing video games. For artists/crafters I would encourage them to share their skills through Community Education classes or by volunteering at local events. I think there’s a real opportunity for all of us to bond with each other through our crafts.

Nancy, thanks for a great interview and taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with everyone! Be sure to see what paper products Nancy has to offer by visiting goshery on Etsy and her blog linke below.

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DZFANTASY'S ANGEL STORIES - "The Healing Angel"

"THE HEALING ANGEL"

Submitted by

MAGGIE

My husband and I had left the house to do some shopping and left our three year old son in my sister's care. My sister, her husband and two little girls had just moved back to California after living in Florida for a few years and stayed with us until they found their own home...anyway, apparently my son had been chasing after the little girls during some house-play and the older girl ran into the bathroom, slamming the door behind her and my son's little finger got pinched off in the bathroom door....just as my husband and I were returning home.

Walking up to the front door, I heard crying, screaming and lots of commotion and there was my son with a small towel wrapped around his little hand and blood everywhere.

My husband and I scooped up our son, got in our car and sped to the Cupertino Emergency Clinic where they led us right in to an examining room. Our doctor was not in that day so we were seen by a tall, blond, soft spoken doctor we'd had never seen before. He administered phenolbarbitol to our son and we could hear him talking softly to our son as he lay on the examination bed. We heard our little guy ask "Am I going to lose my finger?" "Is my finger all gone?", and our hearts just broke. The doctor told him he was not going to lose his finger, but that he needed something in order to fix it. The doctor came out to the hallway where my husband and I were standing, watching him. He asked that one of us go home and find the missing finger tip and bring it back to him so that he might sew it back on. WHAT? Missing finger?! We were panicked. I called home and, as it turned out, the finger piece had been already placed into a small bag of ice and water so my husband drove home to retrieve it and brought it back to the clinic.

The doctor explained to me that he just so happened to have a "finger kit" with him that he could use to stitch the finger tip back on, but he gave no guarantee that it would "take". My son never made a sound the whole time the doctor was sewing his finger tip back on and wrapping up his little finger and hand. Softly speaking to him and rubbing the perspiration off our son's forehead. We knew he was a wonderful doctor and hoped he had joined the clinic permanently.

We made an appointment to bring our son back in 7 days to have his finger checked. When we returned to the Clinic a week later, the clinic staff had no record of our previous visit, they had never heard of the doctor we described to them and advised us that the clinic would never have undergone such an intricate procedure, that they would have referred us to the hospital for the finger procedure, and, they did not have access to phenolbarbitol.

We were unable to ever locate the "doctor" who saved our son's finger. But he looked like a tall, golden Angel. This is a true story. It happened in 1980, when we lived in Santa Clara, CA.

Thanks, Maggie, for taking the time to share your experience with everyone!

If you have an experience or story you would like to share, just click on the link below to find how to submit your story to DZFANTASY'S ANGEL STORIES.

ANGEL STORY SUBMISSION

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - AISLE 3 STUDIO

I was quite amazed when I saw what this artist could create using recycled items!! WOW, that is quite incredible! That just proves there is no limit to what one can do if we use our imaginations!

Deborah is a part-time art teacher, and artist who lives in Des Moines, Iowa. I'm happy to have Deborah and her creations out here on DZFANTASY as a "featured artist". After learning a bit about Deborah and her unique designs, be sure to visit her Etsy shop - AISLE 3 STUDIO.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've loved Art ever since I was a little kid watching my dad draw with chalk pastels in his makeshift studio in the garage. I took classes throughout school in ceramics, photography, metals, painting...you name it, I took an art class in it! I became an Art Teacher and maintained my love for creating! I'm always trying to do something different and unique that is funky yet functional. Really, I'm aware that my art can be a little weird but I create mostly for me and hope that someone else out there will like it too.

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

Being an Art Teacher, like every other Art Teacher I know, naturally, I find it difficult to stick with one medium and one way of doing something. When I chose to start selling on Etsy I wanted to do a couple of things; 1. do something different, and 2. use recycled materials. While living in Northern Virginia, I began making these photo sculptures that used textures and colors. When I looked at my cereal box every morning, I began seeing textures and colors! I came up with a system that would make the petals I cut sturdy enough to form a functioning bowl or wall hanging.

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

I love feeling innovative. Lets face it, we live in a world where most of the time people are praised for following directions and going mainstream. I feel lucky that my job encourages my creative side to shine. I'm inspired by my students when they create something new and feel so accomplished. I love taking that inspiration home with me and putting that energy into becoming innovative in my own Art!

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

Hmm, I would have to say a Pineapple! It just so happens to be my favorite fruit, but is also pointy on the outside, like the edges of my sculptures and has a bold sweet flavor inside.

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

Ceramics, totally! One day I would love to open my own ceramics studio. I just love the feel of clay and all you can do with it. I toured a pottery studio when I was in Atlanta visiting Amnieva (also on Etsy), and just loved the atmosphere in this studio. Clay was everywhere, people were throwing pottery. It's such a flexible material. I tend to think 3 Dimensionally so I love ceramics.

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

I want to show my ability to see the beauty in everyday things that others might not have ever considered. I also want to show that you can still be an Artist and a creative individual when using recycled materials.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what YOU like, not what you THINK others will like. I have made some serious crap trying to come up with what I thought others would want to buy. The thing is, that's never going to work or make you happy. I think people can tell if you like what you do or make. It shows in your work.

Thanks, Deborah for sharing your ideas and creativity with us. I know when I look at cereal boxes I will see them in a new light after seeing what you can create with them! You can see more of Deborah's work by clicking on the links below.

AISLE 3 STUDIO BLOG

DZFANTASY'S "ANGEL STORIES" FEATURE

CALMED BY AN ANGEL

submitted by

Shelley

In the summer of 1983 I was eight and a half months pregnant with my first daughter. It was August and extremely hot and humid. I was on my way home from work and the day had been the worst ever.

While sitting at a stop sign behind two other people, I was getting very frustrated because no one was moving. For no reason at all everyone was just sitting there. Very uncharacteristic of me I yelled out the window at the top of my lungs "MOVE"!!!

The person in the front of the line called back to me in a very calming voice and said, "It's OK, Calm down".

When he turned, I noticed for the first time that he was in a bright red truck with no license plate and the bed of the truck was full of rose bushes and every one of them was in full bloom. When I got to the stop sign and looked down the street in the direction he had gone there was know one there and no place that he could have turned.

Then I realized that I did feel more calm. I actually had a smile on my face for the first time in days. I knew that I had just seen an Angel.

I still think of that time whenever I am stressed and it always helps to calm me.

Shelley, thanks for taking the time to share this experience with all of us. I know there must be many more of you out there that have had different experiences.....don't hesitate to send in your stories! I will be adding another story out here soon. Keep them coming!

ART DOLL SCULPTURE by H.C. O'NEILL

Several weeks ago I did on a post on "ART DOLLS" and the artists who create them. I had already done the post when I received this artist's information, so I am now putting her contribution out here at this time. Below you will read about this particular piece shown above. If you'd like to learn more about this artist's creations be sure to visit the links below.

A Mayan royal sacrifices her own blood to the gods. She draws a thorn studded cord through a hole made in her lip. The outfit design is based on a carving of Lady Xoc from around 725 AD. You can see the image here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lady_Xoc Lady Xoc was the royal consort of the Mayan ruler Shield Jaguar. She is one of the few women depicted in ancient Mayan carvings.The headdress is different than the one shown in the carving, but typical of wall paintings from the same era which involved lots of quetzel feathers. The colors are based on several different partial wall paintings from that period. The Mayans were flashy, flashy dressers!The glyphs on the paper on the altar are for Bird Jaguar (top) and Shield Jaguar underneath. (Bird Jaguar is Shield Jaguar's father. Shield Jaguar is much better known: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shield_Jaguar )

I like doing art dolls and sculptures that showcase historical periods or cultures people aren't all the familiar with. I have a degree in anthropology, so these are often FAR off the beaten path. Why animal people? I like to select an animal that has some sort of important significance to the culture depicted, or a specific meaning associated it. The Jaguar was especially important to Mayan culture, with many depictions of it on temples. Many rulers included Jaguar in their names to harness some of its power.

Shown below is another sculpture and a description of it.

In African folklore, hyenas are the the familiars of witches, much like the black cat is for European witches. They are supposedly marked with a magical brand by their witch and are sometimes called "night cattle" because of this marking. African witches may ride them through the night as a devil's stead, setting them upon their enemies. Here a witch has transformed herself into a deadly leopard-woman after dismounting her steed and uses an elephant tail switch to point our their next victim. She has a feather headdress, crocodile wristbands, and a belt studded with cowrie shells.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - CHANGING WOMAN STUDIO

I love the stunning elegant look of this necklace by CHANGING WOMAN STUDIO! If you'd like to see more of this jewelry artist's beautiful designs be sure to visit her shop CHANGING WOMAN STUDIO! You just might find that perfect gift of jewelry for the "special" someone in your life....or, give a gift to yourself!

First, let's welcome Carol, and hear what she has to say about herself and what motivates her to create her jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always loved creating beautiful things and working with my hands, so making jewelry came naturally.

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

While taking a class in another medium, the teacher mentioned this new product called metal clay and I knew right away it was for me, so off I went learning about it and have never turned back.

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

That's a hard question since I really love all of it. I guess finishing a piece and really loving the way it looks.

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

Now that's easy, I'd have to say a pomegranate because its beautiful, vibrant and juicy.

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

I guess it would be fiber arts since that has always been my other love.

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

I'm not sure that I have a message other than putting a little more beauty out there in the world.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Most of us never think that what we make is "good enough". Make what you love and it will always be good enough.

THANKS, Carol for sharing your thoughts and work with all of us. Your jewelry is exquisite!

To see more of Carol's work, be sure to click on the links below!

CHANGING WOMAN STUDIO BLOG

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AN ANGEL STORY - "NEVER ALONE" submitted by Kim

WELCOME....to DZFANTASY'S "ANGEL STORIES" FEATURE! It is my hope that many more people will be willing to share their stories and experiences out here!

May you enjoy reading the very first story/experience that was so kindly submitted by Kim.

"NEVER ALONE"

by Kim

Many years ago, I was in a difficult situation and wasn't sure how to find my way out. One day, in despair, I was crying in the shower where my young children wouldn't hear me. At the same time, I began to pray to God, and my Grandpa for help. My Grandpa had passed away a few short years before, and I loved him dearly and always felt him near.

After I showered, I was lying on my bed covered in my towel, with my towel turbon on my head. There were big wooden beams going across the ceiling as this was a loft bedroom. On the beams were a few decorations. One of them being a plaque that had the famous "Footprints" poem on it.

Well, it was early June and a calm sunny day, not a cloud in the sky. All of a sudden a huge gust of wind blew open the skylight causing me to sit up in surprise. At the same time, the plaque somehow came off its nail and landed in my lap.

I just know that was my grandpa with a mighty blow causing that skylight to open and that plaque to land in my lap.

The next day, I made some difficult decisions and changes, and escaped the situation I was in. I had the strength because I knew I was not going to be alonge during the rough times ahead.

When I went to my grandpa's funeral, there was a tradition at his church that the pastor blew out a white candle at the end of his eulogy. Well, the candle was completely out, and then suddenly it flickered back to life. It was eerie and I knew it was his way of letting us know he was still around. He had suffered illness and pain for most of his life from an accident. I feel he felt free of the physical pain in life and therefore, he is really strong in spirit.

Thanks, Kim for sharing this experience with us. I also truly believe that if we leave our "hearts and minds" open we will recognize when we are being helped and guided.

Since Kim was the very first person to share a story, Kim will be receiving the angel below as her "special angel". She had told me she really loved this one which was on my site, so I decided to see if she wanted this one instead of creating her another one like it.

If you have a story or experience you'd like to share please feel free to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com with the heading of ANGEL STORY in the subject line.

For more information on how I will be handling the ANGEL STORIES feature on DZFANTASY, please click on the colorful angel below

ONE OF MY FAVORITE ART SHOWS -WINTER ART FESTIVAL - MADISON, WI

This past weekend, I was an exhibitor at the "WINTER ART FESTIVAL" Madison, Wisconsin. This was not only my last art show of the season, but another of my very favorite shows.

The show is put on by The Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople, Inc. (WAAC). I feel that this show is one of the top quality shows in my area. It not only is well run by a group of wonderful people, who are artists themselves, but also has the highest quality and variety of art that I have seen in this area. The mediums range from Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Graphics, Jewelry, Mixed 2-D, Mixed 3-D, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood.

This was my 6th year of participating in this show, and it is always a pleasure! While, the economy has certainly taken its toll on the sales figures of artists, I still find it to be one of the best shows around....not only for sales, but also for the quality of the art on exhibit. As soon as you walk into the show, you can't help but pick up the "good vibes" that this show generates.

I was pleasantly surprised at the number of creations, which I sold this weekend, so you can see me smiling below!!

I couldn't do a show without my sister, Dianne (above photo), who is not only my sister, but my very best friend and display artist! She loves to set up the display and "play with the creations" as she calls it. I'm thankful for that because I don't have the patience or the technique she does for knowing how they will look their very best. Many times throughout the day, she will move them to new spots, and lo and behold...they happen to catch someone's eye, where before they didn't get the attention. She did that with a fairy on Saturday, where a lady had said she was going to take a walk through the show and come back and buy her. Well, in the meantime, my sister had rearranged several of the fairies including that particular fairy, and another lady came into the booth and went straight to the fairy and bought her. The other lady did come back about an hour later, and she thought we were teasing her when we said it was sold. She told us next time she wouldn't wait!

YOUNG AT HEART is my business name, and an artist's statement is required to be on display at this show.

Below you will see photos of some of the isles of art at the show, taken before and after the show was open. I tried to get photos when the isles weren't very crowded. There was a good crowd both Saturday and Sunday, but one didn't see a whole lot of purchases walking by!

This talented pottery artist had a wonderful display of his colorful pottery bowls, dishes, mugs, and vases across the isle from us. If you'd like to learn more about this artist, visit his web page below:

MATTHIAS JAMES POTTERY STUDIO & GALLERY

The delightful creatures shown below are created by 3D-Mixed Media artist, Mary Lou Hager of Milwaukee, WI. Mary and I have been in quite a few of the same shows for several years now, and her work is nothing short of "AMAZING"! The details and colors are exquisite in each of her creations. She has a fantastic collection of turtles, frogs, lizards, fish, butterflies, and much more. Visit Mary's website by clicking on the link below. Mary also does several art shows in Florida, so if you live in Florida...check her art show schedule to see if she might just happen to be in your area.

MARY LOU HAGER

All in all is was a delightful weekend! I now will have to get started on making new creations for my jury slides, and getting things organized for next year's show. The application deadlines come up rather quickly...beginning already in the first few months of 2009.