Thursday, October 30, 2008

CHRISTMAS FAIRY - DZFANTASY'S NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY

MERRY, MERRY, CHRISTMAS FAIRY!

CHRISTMAS FAIRY



I had a "poll" out here on DZFANTASY asking what people would like to see for my DECEMBER giveaway, and a Christmas Fairy seemed to be the top choice. Then it dawned on me that Christmas would be over before the drawing ended at the end of December.....SO....here she is for my DZFANTASY NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY!

START DATE: October 30, 2008

END DATE: November 30, 2008 - 12:00 Midnight CDT

OPEN TO: Worldwide

PRIZE: 1

VALUE: $49.00

RULES: All you have to do to enter is leave a "comment" in this post. Be sure to leave either your email address or some other means of contacting you should you be the lucky winner. If you sign in as "Anonymous", please be sure to leave at least your first name. It does speed up the process if an email is left in the comment.

The WINNER will be randomly drawn, from all entries submitted, on December 1st. WINNER's name and entry will be posted out here on DZFANTASY in a special winner's post by December 2nd.

If the winning entry had an email address in the comment, I will immediately contact the winner. WINNER has 5 days in which to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com with their shipping formation.

If winning entry does NOT have a means of "contact", I will post the winning comment and the date out here, and WINNER will have to contact me within 5 days.

If WINNER doesn't respond within the 5 day time frame, I will randomly draw another name from the remaining entries. If you have ANY questions, please feel free to contact me at my email listed above.


NOW ABOUT THE "CHRISTMAS FAIRY":



She was designed and created by me from my own original pattern. She measures 9" tall from the tip of her toes to the tip of her wings. She is one of my "wall style" fairies. She can either be hung on the wall or dance from a bit of ribbon or clear fishing line.

Her body/wing fabric is a fun Christmas pattern with colorful candy canes, stars, filled stockings and more in the design.

Her face is 100% silk, which I individually hand-drew, needle-sculpted and hand-painted. She has rosy red cheeks, and her eyes and lips have a coat of crystal clear lacquer, which gives her a very life-like look and shine.

She has a hairdo designed from a bright red, sparkling eyelash yarn mixed with a bright green eyelash yarn.

Her accents are Swarovski crystals, a Santa face decoration at her waist, and a sparkling green flower type accent with a red Swarovski crystal in the center.

SHE IS A FUN, CHEERY FAIRY...HOPING TO FIND A GOOD HOME!

GOOD LUCK TO ALL!









COLORFUL "AROUND THE WORLD" TOTE BAG GIVEAWAY BY SID'S IN STITCHES

SPECIAL "NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY"

"AROUND THE WORLD" TOTE

by

SID'S IN STITCHES

I'm happy to announce that Sid from SID'S IN STITCHES on Etsy is back doing another delightful "giveaway" on DZFANTASY!!

The "giveaway" is the fun, colorful "Around the World" tote bag pictured above. You want to be sure to enter for a chance to win this great giveaway!

START DATE: October 30, 2008

END DATE: November 30th - 12 midnight CDT

PRIZE: 1
VALUE: $35.00

OPEN TO: USA

To ENTER, please follow the rules below:

1. Leave a comment in this post.
2. Leave a means of contacting you, should you be the lucky winner. It may be your email, or a link to your email, web page or blog.
3. If you sign is as "anonymous" be sure to at least leave a first name or some means of identification.

Winner's name will be randomly chosen, by me, on DECEMBER 1, 2008. Winner's name will be posted out on a separate "WINNER'S POST" announcing the entry date, and the winner's name. If winning entry has left an email address, WINNER will be contacted immediately for their shipping information.

Winner will have 5 DAYS in which to contact me via my email: dzfairies@msn.com

If winning entry DID NOT leave means of contacting them, I will post the "winning entry" out here on DZFANTASY, and winner will have 5 days to respond.

If winner doesn't respond within the given timeframe, I will randomly pick a new winner from the remaining entries.

Once the winner has been confirmed, Sid will be sending the tote directly to the winner.

Now here are more photos and information about this wonderful "Around the World" tote. Just think....it could possibly be yours!!





Around the World in 80 Days? You could with this tote (from my Charmer Tote pattern). It’s a patchwork of large train, boat, plane and truck with a kicky stripe as trim!


The flip side is a patchwork of smaller retro squares – train, fire truck, pickup, trike, wagon, and school bus plus groovy dots and circles and patches of orange and red.


It has 2 sizes of pockets (2 inside, 2 outside) so it’s versatile enough to serve as a diaper bag or toy bag.The Charmer Tote is REVERSIBLE!


This one’s a tiny bit bigger to hold everything including a book for waiting in line along with all your daily necessities. It has hidden outside and inside pockets on each side. A button closes it at the top.


100% cottonDimensions:20” straps14½” wide, 4-1/2" deep, 9" high2 sizes of pockets - 4” high x 6” wide & 4” high x 4” wide(4 pockets total, 2 sizes on inside and 2 sizes on outside)sizes approximate


If you'd like to take a peek at what other styles of bags and totes that Sid's In Stitches has to offer, visit her shop on Etsy by clicking on either the photos or the link below the photos.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL!!








FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ZEBA


I'm happy to have Sholeh and her delightful jewelry out here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Be sure to visit her Etsy shop, ZEBA, to see all of her wonderful, unique creations. Also, be sure to enter her FREE GIVEAWAY drawing for a very delightful and charming necklace, which I am hosting out here on DZFANTASY! But first, let's learn a little bit more about Sholeh and her creations.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started as a stained glass artist. While working on stained glass, I became interested in working with metals which led into making jewelry. Now making jewelry is my primary passion.

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

I like working with metal and with jewelry, but your choice of metals are somewhat limited. Gold is too expensive; copper, I like to work with, but it oxidizes; so the most practical one for me is Silver. I may still go back and give copper another try.

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

Trials and errors to find solutions so that the outcome is like what I have in mind, or something I am pleased with. A lot of time, I start with an idea and thru trial and error the end product is something I am proud of, but not necessarily what I started with. Sometimes I start without any idea at all and I let the metal or the wire tell me where I should go next.


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

I have to say ‘Ugly Fruit’. It is called ugly, it looks like an unripe orange, but you are in for a treat, if you are willing to try it. Raw materials for my craft are not pretty at all, and it takes a lot of time and effort to bring out the hidden potential and shine, just like an Ugly fruit, you have to cut into it and be trusting.

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

I have already tried, painting, color pencil and watercolor and stained glass and I like them both. But I have to say, I prefer Stained glass. Both the glass and metal have a mind of their own, which creates interesting problems and challenges.

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

I don’t have a special message; I just want to make people feel good.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be patient and don’t give up.

Thanks, Sholeh for sharing your thoughts and your creativity with all of us!

Also, thank you for participating in a "giveaway", on DZFANTASY, for one of your delightful creations.



Be sure to enter the drawing for this whimsical, fun cat necklace! You can go directly to Sholeh's "Cat in on a Window Ledge" necklace giveaway by clicking on the photo below.....all you need to do is a leave a comment in the post.



If you'd like to see more of Sholeh's creations be sure to visit her Etsy Shop and other links listed below.



FLICKR

SPECIAL NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY FROM ZEBA

" Cat on a Window Ledge" Necklace

by Sholeh

You'll be sure to want to enter this "special November" giveaway which I am hosting for Sholeh, a delightful jewelry artist from Etsy. I am very happy to host this UNIQUE, FUN, CAT necklace.

GIVEAWAY: 1 - "Cat on a Window Ledge" necklace

VALUE: $30.00

Start Date: October 30, 2008

End Date: November 30, 2008 - 12 MIDNIGHT - CDT

ELIGIBILITY: USA only

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment in this post

2. Be sure to leave either an email address or some other means of contacting you, should you be the lucky winner.

3. If you sign in as "Anonymous", be sure to leave at least some means of identification.

4. Winner will be randomly chosen on December 1st, from all the entries. Winner's name will be posted out here on DZFANTASY, and if an email is listed in the winning entry, I will immediately notify the winner. The WINNER then has 5 days in which to contact me at dzfairies@msn.com to provide me with their shipping information.

5. If WINNING entry has not left a means of contact them, entry and date will be posted out here on DZFANTASY, and WINNER will have 5 days in which to respond, or I will randomly choose another entry. Be sure to stop back and see you the winner is...IT COULD BE YOU!

6. If WINNER doesn't contact me within the 5 day time frame allowed, I will then randomly select another winner from the remaining entries. It does speed things along if an email is left in your comment.

7. Once the WINNER is verified, I will notify Sholeh of the WINNER'S name and shipping information, and she will ship the necklace DIRECTLY to the WINNER.

PLEASE READ BELOW TO SEE A DESCRIPTION OF THE NECKLACE:

Cat On The Window Ledge Necklace – Glass and Wood Necklace Fun, casual and playful are a few words to describe this pendant style necklace.A Chinese glass red cat surround by rectangular brown wood frame that resembles a Cat on a window Ledge. A Chinese lamp work glass bead is used as decoration to tie the wood frame to the leather cord. The lamp wok is red with while and olive dots. The pendent measures 2 3/4 inches (7 cm) and is hung from a 1mm brown leather cord secured with Bali sterling silver end cap and end hook.The necklace measures 16 (40cm) inches long. The clasp length is included in the overall length. A 2 inch extension sterling silver chain is included. The necklace is shipped in a box suitable for gift giving. For Necklace Length help see http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15843693

If you'd like to see more of Sholeh's work, be sure to visit her shop on Etsy by clicking on either the photos below to go directly to that item in her shop or to click on the ZEBA link below the photos!


FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LULU DESIGN - KATHY V. CRABBE

Zodiac Mandela Soul Card Reading

Kathy designs the cards herself


KATHY
WELCOME....Kathy of LuLu Design on Etsy! Kathy not only will give you an "insight" into areas of your life and what your life path might be, but will also delight you with whimsical prints of faeries, mermaids, cat, dogs, and more! Be sure to treat yourself, and visit LuLu Design!

Kathy is also featuring a "winner's choice" giveaway out here on DZFANTASY for the month of November, so be sure to read all about it and enter. This "Giveaway" will be listed in a separate post below Kathy's "feature". Now let's find out a bit more about this delightful, fascinating artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started LuLu Design in 1993 after a re-birthing session (in California, where else?!!) during which I regressed to the newborn state, was re-birthed all over again and had an amazing revelation about my entire business plan - it was all spelled out for me in black and white! I was also just approaching my Saturn Return, (astrologically speaking) and was ready to get serious about my life and my career! Silk painting was my main medium, during my time in Laguna Beach, California. I discovered an amazing two month long art show in Laguna Beach called The Sawdust Festival, a true artist’s haven, that began in the 60’s. I found a whole community of artists and a whole new way of life too. I had always been an artist and a dreamer, from a very young age, but it wasn’t until I discovered my partner and a town that was incredibly conducive to making a decent living as an artist, that things really took off for me!

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

I am 43 and have been an artist, creator and dreamer all my life. I grew up in Belleville, Ontario, Canada and received my BA in Art History and a three year Diploma in Graphic Design in Kingston, Ontario. I moved to Southern California when I was twenty-seven years old and got married to my sailor-architect husband when I was twenty-seven and we’re still happily married and living in our modern South-Western style home, designed and built by my husband, single-handedly!
I chose silk painting as my main medium because there is absolutely nothing else like it! The intensity and vibrancy of the colors are amazing - I have created many paintings, kimonos and even earrings from silk!

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

Currently, I am working on copperplate and zinc etchings as well as Soul Readings using three magickal decks that I designed and painted myself. These two mediums may appear to be completely different and you’re right, they are! But what they do have in common, creativity-wise is that they both allow me to explore new mediums, develop new skills, and hone old skills in new ways. With printmaking, I am working in a two dimensional medium, but with new materials: zinc and copper plates, acid baths, scratching (etching tools) and a printing press. With my psychic work I am expanding upon my intuitive powers which I have been working with my entire life (via dreamwork), but now, I am able to widen my horizons, and help, not only myself, but many others – which is an absolute thrill for me; being a Virgo, with many planets also in the Virgo House (the 6th House), I am all about service!

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable in which to display your “creativity,” what would that be, and why?

Since I’ve been eating so many tomatoes recently (grown on my own property!) that’s all I can possibly think about! Tomatoes are lovely and juicy and so abundant, what more can I say?

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

I have wanted to be a jeweler, a glass artist (fused glass jewelry), a weaver, a spinner, a dyer of yarns and wools grown by myself and colored by me, using plants found in the wild and in my garden, as well as a knitter of wonderful Irish sweaters and many, many other things – but it probably won’t be happening, in this lifetime, anyway! These are all mediums I love to buy, to own, to admire and I love the lifestyle that goes with them!

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

Love what you do with a passion – that’s happiness!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If you really want it then just go for it and don’t ever give up!

KATHY, thanks for sharing your creative abilities with all of us, and for giving us an insight into what makes you the delightful artist that you are!

To learn more about Kathy and her work, you can visit any of the links below. Also don't forget to sign up for Kathy's "Winner's Choice" giveaway in the following post below her feature.

BLOG

FLICKR


FACEBOOK

NOVEMBER WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY BY LULU DESIGN - Art for the Elf in You!

FANTASTIC "WINNER'S" CHOICE GIVEAWAY!

Click on the above link to see what a Soul Card Reading is
OR

PLEASE NOTE: This Giveway ENDED November 30, 2008 at 12 Midnight CDT. The listing on "ON-Line Sweepstakes has an ERROR listing it as open until December 1, 200. Sorry for any inconvience this may cause! The winner's name has been posted out on my DZFANTASY blog. THANK YOU!


Your choice of 1 - $14.95 print from LULU Design Shop


LULU DESIGN


Click on the link above to see your choices of $14.95 prints!


Variety of subjects to choose from: Faeries, Mermaids, Dog, Cat,


Kathy of LuLu Design is letting the winner of her 'WINNER'S CHOICE" GIVEAWAY out here on DZFANTASY, select the prize of their choice. The winner can either choose to receive a "One Question Soul Card Reading" ($15.oo) OR select a whimsical print ($14.95) from LuLu Design's shop on Etsy.


START DATE: October 30, 2008


END DATE: November 30, 2008


PRIZE: 1


OPEN TO: WORLDWIDE

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment in this post.


2. Leave your email address or some means of contacting you, should you be the lucky winner. If you sign in as "anonymous" be sure to leave at least your first name!


Winner's name will be randomly selected on December 1, 2008, from all entries received . If winner has left an email address, I will contact them immediately to notify them that they are the winner. WINNER then has 5 days in which to respond with their contact information. IT DOES HELP TO SPEED THE PROCESS by leaving your email address. The WINNER'S name and entry will also be posted out here on DZFANTASY. If WINNER does not respond within the given timeframe, I will randomly select another winner from the remaining entries.


If winning entry DOES NOT leave a means of contact, I will post the winning entry out here, and the winner has 5 days in which to respond, before another entry will be randomly chosen.


Once the WINNER has been confirmed, I will notify KATHY of LU LU DESIGN, and she will be contacting you personally to let you select your prize.


If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com


DZFANTASY has a total of 5 GIVEAWAYS running for November...so be sure to check them all out. GREAT PRIZES!! All of my GIVEAWAYS are always listed in the upper right hand column of my blog. All you need to do is click on the GIVEAWAY PHOTO to get to that post and leave a comment.


GOOD LUCK TO ALL













Tuesday, October 28, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - 2 OF A KIND PHOTOGRAPHY

What delightful, colorful cards!! I'm sure anyone would be thrilled to receive one of these cards. These are the kind of cards I save forever....probably even frame them!
Let's meet the photographers behind these wonderful cards. Welcome, Shannon and Ralph. To give everyone a bit more insight into these creative people, I have added portions of their profiles from their Etsy shop 2 OF A KIND PHOTOGRAPHY.

Two of a Kind Photography is the creation of my husband and I. We decided to open up a company that would showcase our photography talents and our love of nature. We have a realistic and unique perspective when it comes to our art; hence the name we chose. I like to take pictures of flowers, animals, and close up images. My husband prefers to do landscapes, buildings, and animals.


SHANNON: There are many times when I go out to take photographs when I ask if there are any plants, animals, or anything else that would like to have their picture taken. Within minutes, animals or insects will get close to me or I'll see the perfect landscape out of the corner of my eye.

RALPH: I enjoy nature photography because it's an awsome experience to go out into the calming solitude of nature. I'm at peace with everything around me. It's just the animals, my wife, and myself. It's like a giant meditation room where all my worries go away. Nothing matters except what I'm there to do; relax. Photography makes the moment relivable through my pictures.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Growing up in La Crosse, Wisconsin, I was always surrounded by nature. Some of my earliest memories are of my father taking pictures of me at the park. I enjoyed going with him to develop his film and I still remember the smell of his darkroom. I loved taking pictures as a kid and it stays with me today. Luckily, my husband also enjoys getting lost in the beauty of nature.

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

It kind of chose us. Photography seems to be something that sticks with a family from generation to generation.

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

Definitely the photo shoots. We’ve been able to go to a lot of stunning places and observe behind the scene secrets of local zoos.

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

We both agreed it would be a pomegranate because it’s exotic, full of passion, and you never know what design the seeds will reveal.

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

Digital Art. With any medium, you always get outcomes that weren’t the greatest. We’ve found that digital programs like Adobe Elements 6 and Harmware's Tile can give a whole new meaning to something that would’ve been tossed aside. A blurry, dark photo can become a mysterious and unearthly creation.

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

There are many aspects of nature, just like there are many facets on a gem. Some are destructive, others peaceful, and sometimes even revitalizing. Nature photography lets you lose yourself in search for that perfect shoot and you discover things about you that you never knew.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don’t give up on what makes you happy. It may take time and compromise, but you can be successful if you are persistent.

THANKS, Shannon and Ralph for taking the time to share your wonderful photography with us. How wonderful that you both can do something you love as a team!! That makes it even more special. Shannon and Ralph are new to Etsy, so be sure to give them a great welcome. Visit their shop 2 OF A KIND PHOTOGRAPHY to see what lovely items they have to offer.


BLOG

MYSPACE PAGE

Monday, October 27, 2008

"ART DOLLS" and the ARTISTS WHO CREATE THEM!

PRINCESS OF THE SEA
Fiber Sculpted Mermaid
by, Donna Ziegler - DZFANTASY

WHAT IS AN ART DOLL?
A brief description might be....an art doll is a one-of-a-kind, 3-dimensional, figurative sculpture, designed and created from various mediums such as polyform clays, paper clays, fabric, wood and/or a combination of any of these mediums. The figures can range from human form, animals, fantasy figures and more. The only limitation is in any artist's imagination! What is YOUR description of an "art doll"?

The "world of art dolls" is a fun, magical world to belong to, and I wouldn't trade it for anything! Happily, the "art doll" has made great strides in being finally accepted for what it is....AN ART!!

While gathering together the "art doll" artists represented here, I found that a common "thread" links us all together, no matter where in the world we live....it is the "passion" to bring our imaginative creatures to life!! It is as important to us as the air we breath! I know it is for me!!

Here you will find a delightful mixture of "art dolls", and the artists who create them. Enjoy the photos, read the artist's words, and get lost in the world of "dolls"!

If you find an artist whose creations you'd like to learn more about, just click on the links below each artist's paragraph. I'm sure they would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Original Art by Griselda Tello
GRISELDA'S SPIRIT ART DOLLS
Although painting is my first love, assemblage and art dolls has become an essential spiritual practice. I love the process of sculpting with polymer clay and working with textiles, yarn, fibers and beading, creating a context where magic begins. I've been inspired by many cultures where dolls were made symbolic of the sacred...full of meaning and creativity, I feel there is an element of reverence and solitude that guides me gently into that type of art. This is for me a form of meditation...a beautiful dance with creativity, where Spirit moves me to find inspiration in nature, myth and life itself. My only hope is that people may find in my art a sense of peace.



SPIRAL SUN

COBWEB
I started experimenting with art dolls just over a year ago as a result of acquiring a copy of Patti Medaris Culea's excellent book on making cloth dolls. I've always worked with textiles because I love the medium of fabric, the textural and sensual qualities of cloth, and I love the act of stitching. Going from two dimensions to three seemed like a natural progression. I've heard it said that every art doll you make is a self portrait, whether you intend it or not. For me, art dolls offer a way of exploring the other-worldly, magical qualities we all hold inside us.
Cobweb is based on one of the fairy characters in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, which is one of my favourite Shakespeare plays. Making art dolls is something I keep coming back to after a period of two-dimensional work, and I find there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing a unique individual slowly taking shape before your very eyes.



STAR SHINE GALLERY

Mildred's Christmas Shopping
Exhausted Art Doll Sculpture
by Patricia Bill

As the Christmas season begins, we find Mildred out at the mall carrying her heavy bags filled with gifts through the crowds of Christmas shoppers. Someone should tell her about the new and improved way to shop, on Etsy.com!


Mildred is a unique one-of-a-kind sculpture. An art doll creation by artist Patricia Bill. She has been hand crafted of kiln fired clay, wood and paper mache. Hand painted in acrylic paints and detailed with velvet and faux fur, she stands over 16 inches tall. Sure to become a treasured heirloom. She can be found in my Etsy shop - STAR SHINE GALLERY




SERENDIPITOUS WINKS

"MAPLE MOON" by Megan

I create OOAK faerie sculptures using polymer clay over tiny wire armatures. This one is titled 'Maple Moon' and she is part of my private collection. I also sell faeries in my shop and do commissions if requested.
Each faerie begins as a faint whisper in my mind. She slowly develops into an idea over days or weeks--can't rush the creative Muse. When she is ready, she pours out of my mind and hands and into the clay and transforms herself from the figurative into the literal. I might work for days or weeks, and for hours and hours at a time on each sculpture until I am finished. I can become quite complusive about my sculpting and their detailing--barely stopping to eat, drink or rest, as I apply their hair, and hand paint details and sew them clothes. My sculptures come from my inner being and are meant to invoke joy in others. I am naturally drawn to the magical realms and my art has always reflected my love of faeries. These days, now more than ever, it is critical to nuture the magic in our lives.


CW POPPETS

FLOATING MARKET
by Christine

I started making miniature dolls in 2006 when I found James Carrington's book "1/12 Scale Character Figures for the Dolls' House". My first doll wasn't really good, but from that time on I was hooked. So I practiced and experimented and still do... My art dolls are between 6"/14 cm up to 10"/25cm. They are made primarily in polymer clay with some bodys made from air drying clay.While making my dolls I can also indulge in my love for fabric/sewing, history, old paintings and traditions.


OLD WORLD PRIMITIVES
by Stephanie
The doll pictured above is a primitive folk art Santa doll made of muslin that I painted, sanded, coffee stained and sanded again to give him a time-worn look. His facial features are entirely hand-stitched. His beard is made of wool that I purchased raw and hand-washed myself, and the sweet annie that fills his stocking was purchased from a living historic farm that is still operating just as it did in the 1800s.




ART FEY STUDIO

Wendy Dreams of Neverland

by Zaryana

Art Doll making is a big part of my life (and even part of my personality) that gives me an opportunity through the creative process to dream away from everyday life into the wonderful world of fantasy. I am passionately in love with creating Art Dolls and for me it is as important as fresh water and fresh air.

The process of creating itself has many wonderful aspects to it like: research and brainstorming, sculpting and painting, picking colors, fabrics, and accessories and designing a costume, finding right color, texture, and designs for hair and overall creating a character. The other thing that I really like about Art Doll making is that there is always a room for learning some new and exciting techniques. Also, hearing from my customers that my creations bring joy and happiness to their homes makes me a truly happy person.



FAERYSPELL CREATIONS

SAMILOVA - Fall Fantasy Fae

by Jennifer

Samilova, the Spirit Of The Forest: Slavic Goddess of the woods who is the fierce protector of all animals. She has the ability to shapeshift into a falcon, horse, snake, swan or a whirlwind and would not hesitate to cause harm to anyone who threatens her creatures. She lives deep in the woods and has great knowledge of plant medicine.

I am inspired to create my Faeries and mythic creatures through my fascination with the ancient lore and legends of the Faerie People of all lands. My artistic inspiration comes from Nature, first and foremost. I also love and greatly respect the work of artists such as Brian and Wendy Froud, Alan Lee, Arthur Rackham and Edmund Dulac. In addition to these, my inspiration as a doll artist comes from my love of old world dolls and old fashioned marionettes. I love the quality of a doll being doll-like, and yet seeming as if it could come to life at any moment. I believe this influence shows in my work, and is a part of what makes my dolls unique. My dolls truly seem to me to form themselves--I am only the medium. They emerge from the clay, each with his or her own distinct features and personality--they are always a surprise to me!

PAULETTE CARR

This is one of my favorite dolls. She is also my first "art doll". I was inspired by a pattern in Patti Culea's Beading for the Cloth Doll book. She was a challenge for me, but what a learning experience! Her clothing is made from silk fibers that I stitched between two layers of soluble stabilizer. I then hand dyed lace to match the color of the silk. The flower in her hair is recycled from an old hat!

ADVENTURES IN FIBER (Paulette's Blog)

CAYA'S CREATIONS

"Petite Poupees"

"Hi, my name is Catherine Gabriel and I live in Australia. I have been making miniature teddy bears and animals for the past 5 years and have recently ventured into cloth doll making. These dolls are called "Petite Poupees" and stand at 6 inches tall. They are made out of pimatex fabric with soft tibetan lambswool hair. The faces and clothes are drawn with watercolour pencils and pigma pens. I have designed these dolls to look almost like an illustration that has come to life."

CAYA'S CREATIONS

MYSTIC REFLECTIONS

HONEYSUCKLE MYXIE

by CARALYN

I have always enjoyed fantasy art, and have been drawing characters since I was really young...especially fairies. One day a fan told me something that changed the way I approach my art. She said, "I love your drawings, they have so much life, but I wish I could pull them off the page and hold them in my hand." I started thinking about what she said and decided to try a different way to give life to my ideas, and after some research, decided that I would try working with polymer clay. I had sculpted before in high school but never with polymer clay, and I found it was really easy to work with and my "Myxie" fairy sculptures were born. Once I have the sculpture done, I paint their features with acrylic paint and then add hair and make clothing to fit their personality. Honeysuckle is one of my favorite Myxies... I sculpted her using glow in the dark clay mixed with beige polymer clay, and was able to create a soft honey color for her skin. Usually when I am sculpting a myxie, it takes on a form as I go and doesn't turn out as I originally pictured, but I am always happy with how they turn out because they all have their own look and are truly one of a kind. Honeysuckle is special because she is one of the few that actually came out exactly as I envisioned her.

I hope you all enjoyed your visit with all the delightful "art doll" artists that I was so lucky to have participate in this post. We'd all love to hear any comments you may have!

Sunday, October 26, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BONNIE SHOP


Let's welcome Bonnie of BONNIE SHOP on Etsy. If you are looking for a great place to store your jewelry, look no further...BONNIE SHOP has just the thing for you! Great looking earring display stands, and much more! Great prices too! You can save even more this week, as Bonnie informed me she is having a sale with the "minimum of 25% off" on any item in her shop! The sales starts Oct. 26 and ends November 3rd at 12 Midnight.
Read below to hear what Bonnie has to say about herself and her creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have enjoyed traditional crafts like sewing and knitting since I was very young. I began working with wire in high school on a whim. I bought some cheap green garden wire in the 11th grade and created my first 3-D wire piece. Wire was so fun I kept playing with it, making little wire people and other useless things. I bought the wrong kind of wire one day, and ended up making my first jewelry stand out of it!
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
Wire is really great. It bends into whatever shape you can imagine. For someone who could never draw more than a stick figure, wire is perfect, because it is a series of sticks. 3. What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable? I love seeing the finished product. I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I finish something.
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I would choose the peach, because it is a girly fruit. As much as I hate to admit it, making jewelry displays is terribly girly.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
If I had the means, the time, and the know-how, I would love to learn how to make lamp work glass beads. I admire glass-workers, and would love to work with glass as my medium. It has such potential.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
I recommend taking advantage of "mistakes" like buying the wrong materials, or messing something up. Instead of just moving on to what you know, experiment with the new materials, and try something new with your "messed up" creation!

Thanks, Bonnie, for taking your time to share your thoughts, and your creative use of wire. Don't forget now....pay a visit to BONNIE SHOP. All you have to do is click on either the photos below to go directly to that item in Bonnie's shop, or click on the BONNIE SHOP link below the photos.



Saturday, October 25, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - GO GO KIOKO



WELCOME, Jenny, whose Etsy shop GO GO KIOKO has the slogan....Fun Handmade Jewelry for the Kid in You! It is definitely colorful, and fun, and I DO believe there is the "kid" in all of us, so be sure to visit GO GO KIOKO, and let the "kid in you" come out and have some fun!! Let's here what motivated Jenny to make her fun, colorful, pieces of jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft
I tagged along with my mom as a kid when she sold her lollipops at craft shows. Once I finished college and was in the so called real world, the real world wasn't a good fit for me. I started selling some of the things I made to friends, then eventually hit the show circuit. Everything just snowballed from there, and here I am!

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
When my oldest son was still small, he and my husband came home with one of those scorpions sealed in resin. I had seen them before, living in the Southwest US they are a common thing at tourist attractions. It gave me the heebie jeebies yet I couldn't quit studying it. I decided that something cuter had to go into this medium that had enthralled me so, so I started experimenting and eventually settled on candy and other sweets.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
The designing part. I can sit down with a notebook and colored pencils for hours coming up with new ideas. I am also working on a new line of jewelry that requires hand sewing and I am discovering how relaxing that can be.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
A strawberry- very sweet, very brightly colored, and perhaps one of natures cutest fruits.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I am moving into a new medium as I type this. I am working on a line of hand sewn cute jewelry. I love the little hand sewn plushies I see so many talented artists making, so I am trying to make my own little bite size plushies to wear.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
You don't have to grow up! I really hope my jewelry is feeding the inner children of the women who wear it.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
If you want to make a living selling your art, then you have to treat your art as a business. I spend about 50% of my work day creating, and the other half building my business and attending to other business tasks. On the bright side, running a business takes a lot of creativity so us artists and crafters have a leg up on the other guys.


Thanks, Jenny for sharing your delightful creations with us. Best of luck to you on your new designs. You can visit GO GO KIOKO by clicking on the photos to go directly to that item in Jenny's shop or clicking on the link below the photos.



JENNY'S BLOG

Thursday, October 23, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MINDY G JEWELRY BOUTIQUE

WELCOME, Mindy of MINDY G JEWELRY BOUTIQUE, and her beautiful jewelry creations! I just love the colors and design of the above necklace. A truly delightful piece!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always loved arts and crafts as a little girl. If my hands are busy creating and designing things then my mind is at peace. I like the outlet that making something with my hands gives me.

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

Jewelry making started when my youngest son attended preschool and my older son started Kindergarten. I made a bracelet one day and I started getting compliments on it from other moms and girlfriends. Before I knew it I was getting orders from local moms and decided to start a line of jewelry to sell at home parties. That way I could still be home with my kids during the day and sell my jewelry on nights and weekends.

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

I like networking and meeting new customers that share the love of jewelry. It makes them happy and it makes me feel great that what I create can do that.

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

I would pick a watermelon because when you cut it open you see the most beautiful shade of red and the contrast of the white rind and outer green is naturally very pretty. I like bright colors. I love combining bright colors together and different textures in my jewelry designs.

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

If I wasn't making jewelry I'd probably crochet or sew quilts because I love yarn and fabric and working with my hands. I like the colors and textures at the yarn and fabric stores, there are so many to choose from!

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

My jewelry sparks happy conversations and I get to meet so many nice people over the years. I am very detailed in my work and I make sure each piece is crafted with the best quality of gemstones, pearls and findings.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Keep an inner peace by creating and dreaming up new possibilities!

Thanks for a great interview, Mindy! Be sure to visit Mindy's shop on Etsy to see what other gorgeous pieces she has available. You can also see and learn more about her work by clicking on the various links below.



MINDY'S BLOG

FLICKR

INDIEPUBLIC

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

IF YOU LIKE GIVEAWAYS.....YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS VISTING DZFANTASY IN NOVEMBER!!

OUT HERE ON DZFANTASY, I WILL BE HOSTING 3 OTHER ETSY ARTISTS' GIVEAWAYS STARTING ON NOVEMBER 1ST AND ENDING NOVEMBER 30TH

These artists are generously giving away some great creations!!

I'm sure you won't want to miss out on these delightful creations that are going to be offered. Be sure to stop back and enter all the giveaways.

In addition to the 3 artists listed below, I will also be doing my own giveaways...so it should be a fun time for all!! Just in time for Christmas giving!!


SID'S IN STITCHES



This is Sid's In Stitches 2nd Giveaway on DZFANTASY....her 1st was VERY popular, so be sure to stop back!!

ZEBA



Just a hint...Zeba's giveaway is truly delightful, whimsical and fun!! You won't want to miss the opportunity to win this giveaway!

LULU DESIGN


LU LU DESIGN will be offering the winner a "choice" in what prize they would like to receive!! Both are great!!

Of course, there is no reason why you can't take a look at their shops now!! Hope to have you all come back in November!!


Tuesday, October 21, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - GIGGLING GOLDFISH

Fun Stuff On The Go - Fabric Fun Learning Book


The above "Learning Book" is just one of the delightful creations you can find if you visit, Tammy's Giggling Goldfish shop on Etsy. However, before you go pay Giggling Goldfish a visit, let's find out a bit more about the creator of these fun creations!


What led you to start creating your art/craft?



I come from a family of artists and crafters and have been creating ever since I can remember…I’m pretty sure I had no way around the crafting world.


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


I have created with so many different mediums over the years, but because I have two children at home I have been focusing on creating fun and useful items for them.

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

Hmmm…that is a hard one, I honestly enjoy the entire process! From coming up with new ideas, to drawing them out on paper, creating them, letting my little ones test out their pieces, selling them, and even packing them up.

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

Love this question!...I would have to say a strawberry. I think the things I create are sweet, unique and simple things that are savored.

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

I really love to create useful and fun furniture pieces from found objects, but haven’t really been able to branch out on that. Hopefully one day I will be able to expand on that.

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

I think mostly I want to create items that children will treasure for a lifetime. You know one of those things that you always want to have around no matter how old you are.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Perseverance is key…no matter what, you have to move forward and never give up.

Thanks, Tammy, for sharing your thoughts and colorful, delightful creations with us. Your two little boys are lucky to have a mom, who can design things for them to try out!! You can visit Giggling Gold Fish by clicking on any of the photos to go directly to that item in the shop, or click on the shop name below the photos to go to the shop itself.

To see more of Tammy's wonderful creations, visit her FLICKR link below. You just might find the perfect gift for that special little person in your house.


FLICKR

Monday, October 20, 2008

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BEN MCFUZZYLUGS

I am very happy to be featuring Pam and her Etsy shop.. BEN MCFUZZYLUGS , not only because this artist's work is so adorable, but I love what she is doing to help our four-legged friends. Be sure to visit BEN MCFUZZYLUGS to see how you can help not only this sweet little dog named Mia, but others as well, and have a chance to win a one-of-a-kind felted sculpture of your own dog or cat.



Mia

Below you will hear in Pam's own words what she has to tell us about herself and her creations!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

The book 'fleece dogs' jumped out at me in a craft shop. I bought it and some supplies and even my 1st attempts looked a little like they were suposed to.

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

I have been doing many crafts for years, but never sold any. On a dog forum, I mentioned what I was making and people asked me to make some fuzzy pets for them too. Everyone loved theirs - and they actually paid for them, so I decided to have a go at selling them.

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

The wool forming into the shapes for me, and when I put the eyes on them and they come to life,

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

Haha good question...a pomegranate...looks simple but there is a lot more going on (and they are hard work but worth it)

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

Clay, I have always loved the look and feel of clay, but have no money or space for a kiln.

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

Love and happiness. I am always so worried when I make a model of a pet that is at the rainbow bridge, our pets are with us for a short time but give us so much. It is nice to have a reminder of them. The good thing about this art is you can even include some of the pets fur into the sculpture.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Creating what you love - is there a better job?

Thanks, Pam, for a great interview, and also for helping our furry friends through your art! Be sure to visit BEN MCFUZZYLUGS to see her delightful "fuzzy" creations!




BEN MCFUZZYLUGS BLOG

Saturday, October 18, 2008

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - ELAINE HAYDON JEWELRY - semi precious gemstone accessories


I'm happy to have Elaine Haydon with her exquisite jewelry out here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. The bracelet above is absolutely breathtaking!
You really must take the time to visit Elaine's Etsy shop to see all of her wonderful creations. First, let's hear what Elaine has to say about her adventure as a jewelry artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

A love of art, jewelry & a strong desire to work from home & raise my children.

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

I worked in the retail & merchandising end of the fashion industry for about 15 years. I think it stems from that, really, more than anything else. I have a passion for fashion & accessories. And I LOVE jewelry. I'm particularly drawn to unique natural gemstones.

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

I love every aspect of it- except the photography and marketing (which are the most important parts of selling online). Mainly, I love sitting down with the stones & just creating without sketching. That's really when I do my best work.

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

Hmmm...that's a tough one. I would probably choose a bunch of grapes. I'm really drawn to clustering gemstones right now & curled headpins, which actually remind me of grapes.

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

I would have to say pastels. I have loved creating with pastels since I was young. My kids think it's great that I "draw with chalk". I find it very relaxing.

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

Just a strong sense of style, individualism & beauty. I want every woman that wears my jewelry to feel great about how it pulls her look together.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don't give up. Be passionate about what you do & stay consistant. And, above all, don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't succeed.

Elaine, thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and gorgeous creations with us. They are truly delightful. To see more of Elaine's work be sure to check out her web page listed below, as well as her Etsy shop.




ELAINE HAYDON JEWELRY WEB PAGE