FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BONZAI BEADWEAR

Hot Summer Pink Earrings

by

BONZAI BEADWEAR

(CLICK on above photo to learn more about these colorful earrings)

WELCOME, Bonnie and her Etsy shop, BONZAI BEADWEAR. Bonnie creates handcrafted jewelry, and you will find a wide selection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and more when you pay a visit to her shop. She also has several colorful, original "art prints" available.

MY HEART, MY LOVE

CLICK on the photo to learn more about this art print

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started with crayons when I was little! You could not pry them out of my hands! Then I majored in Fine Arts in college, switched to Graphic Design, and thats what I do for a living. I needed more creativity in my life, so I started painting on the side. I took a jewelry making class in college and then picked it up a few years ago...I make jewelry, artwork and home goods and love it! Its a wonderful creative outlet!

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

I enjoy working with all kinds of medium. Its hard for me to narrow it down sometimes. I love painting, jewelry making, clay, etc. So fun!

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

When I am working on a project, and have possibly struggled with some of it. Then I take a step back, and play around. The best part is seeing that work pay off with a beautiful end piece. That makes the struggle worth going through.

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

An orange for sure. I absolutely love the color orange! It is vibrant, sweet, juicy, and full of life.

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

Clay! I have taken pottery classes and created bowls, etc. But never explored it like I wanted too. I'm want to of get some PMC clay and playing around to see what happens....just forming things with your hands is fun. I like to get my hands dirty...dont care about my nails at all.. hee, hee!

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

I want to convey a happy and positive emotions with my paintings. I want to convey a beautiful and feel-good feeling with my jewelry. I want to convey a decorative and unexpected feeling with my home goods.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Keep creating! If you feel unmotivated, down, or just plain blah....sometimes forcing yourself to do your craft can be the best thing for you! Keep plugging away at it, you never know who might love your creations!

THANKS, Bonnie, for taking the time to share your enthusiasm, your thoughts and your creations with everyone!

To learn more about Bonnie and her creativity, be sure to visit the links below.

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BONZAI CREATIVE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - IZZY'S PLACE

Foxy Lady

Izzy's Place Glass Tile Pendant - Free Silverplated Ball Chain Necklace

(CLICK on photo to learn more about this pendant)

WELCOME, Pat and her Etsy shop which she calls IZZY'S PLACE. When you pay a visit to IZZY'S PLACE, you will find a variety of glass pendants which would make wonderful, affordable gift ideas...whether it be for a friend, a thank you gift, teacher's gift, and more, in a variety of subjects.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Actually it was my daughter who started me on this venture of making pendants. She loves all types of jewelry and wanted something different. She also likes to wear a different necklace everyday to work. So began my pendant venture. I must admit I wear a different one everyday too.

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

I'd been doing scrabble tiles for a while and then a friend gave me some glass tiles and said make something. So I did.

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

I love the challenge of finding just that right graphic that will make me smile. There is an abundance of wonderous things out there and it's a wonderful feeling to put them in miniature on a glass tile. I even have a pendant with my granddaughter's picture on it. That's for me.

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

I would have to say apple because everything I make is the apple of my eye. Kind of corny but I love them all.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I have a passion for knitting. I've been knitting since I was 7 yrs old and that's a long time. I love the idea that a piece of yarn can be turned into something so special and so meaningful to the person you give it to.

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

Whimsy is a wonderful part of daily life. If we take things too seriously all the time, it can affect our way of life. Take time to enjoy the fun things in life. You've only got one shot at it.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love. Crafting is our personal inner being. I always make what I like and hope that someone will love it as much as I do. You will never please everyone, but just make sure you please yourself.

Great thoughts and advice, Pat! I agree that when one creates what brings happiness to their soul, it can't help but touch others. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creations here on DZFANTASY.

Be sure to pay a visit to IZZY'S PLACE by clicking on the links below. Clicking on a particular photo will take you to that item in Pat's Etsy shop.

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23rd ANNUAL "FIREFLY" ART FAIR - Kneeland Walker House - Wauwatosa, WI

Saturday & Sunday August 1 & 2
10 a.m. - 5p.m.
Kneeland-Walker House & Gardens
7406 Hillcrest Drive
Admission $4
children under 12 free
Rain or Shine!


Just a "small" section of the gardens!

The breathtaking gardens on the grounds of the Kneeland-Walker House provide the setting for the Wauwatosa Historical Society’s 23rd annual FIREFLY ART FAIR. Featuring paintings, pottery, ceramics, glass, basketry, jewelry, fiber art, mosaics, leather, photography, pen and ink drawings, concrete sculpture, metal work and wood from 90 juried artists. Enjoy the Silent Auction, live music, homemade desserts, grilled sandwiches and beverages.As always, the Kneeland-Walker House will be open, and will feature an exhibit and sale of the Wauwatosa Plein Art Affair paintings.

The FIREFLY ART FAIR has been one of my favorite shows for many years now. The grounds are beautiful, and the Wauwatosa Historical Society people run a great show!

I'm hoping the weather will be fantastic and that there will be a lot of people looking to buy some wonderful art. If you live in the area, be sure to stop by to say HI. My booth number is #87, same as last year.

As in the past, I will be doing a "review" of the FIREFLY ART FAIR here on DZFANTASY with photos.

Last year it was a good show for me, and I am hoping this year it will be the same. We shall see.....!

CLICK ON THE KNEELAND WALKER HOUSE'S PHOTO BELOW TO VISIT THE "WAUWATOSA HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S" WEB PAGE:

MAGICAL BUTTERFLY FLOWER PHOTO ACCENTS!

This butterfly has found a beautiful flower garden!
5" x 7" framed flower print

(CLICK ON PHOTOS to learn more about this item)

Introducing my latest idea....a fabric sculpted butterfly attached to one of my flower photo prints. I've decided to combine my two favorite things to d0...creating fiber fantasy creations and taking closeup flower photos. The results is a "Butterfly Flower Photo" wall accent. The butterflies are permanently attached to the glass of the frame.

I have a lot of gorgeous flower photos, which I will be combining with one of my original designed butterfly creations that will match the flowers in each photo. The butterflies all have Swarovski crystal bodies. I will also be having 8" x 10" size photo accents.

BUTTERFLIES AND FLOWERS.....BEAUTY and MAGIC!

Add a fairy and get a magical wall grouping!

(CLICK on above photo to learn more about the fairy)

Beautiful lilies photographed at Borner Botanical Gardens, Milwaukee, WI

CLICK ON ABOVE PHOTOS to learn more about this item.

BUTTERFLY FAIRY FACE PIN GIVEAWAY - WINNER'S CHOICE

WINNER CAN CHOOSE WHICH ONE OF THE ABOVE BUTTERFLY FAIRY FACE PINS THEY WANT AS THEIR PRIZE

To give you an idea of the size of these pin's, I laid one on a denim jacket, as shown above.

Size: Approx. 2.75" x 2.75"

START DATE: July 24, 2009

END DATE: August 24, 2009 - 12:00 Midnight CDT

PRIZE: 1

VALUE: $20.00

ELIGIBILITY: Open "worldwide"

HOW TO ENTER: Please leave a comment in this post stating which pin you would choose if you are the WINNER. Please leave an email address or a link by which you may be contacted.

Winner will be contacted via email only, so it is very important to leave a means of contacting you.

At the end of the giveaway, a WINNER will be randomly selected from all the entries received. WINNER will be contacted via email and will have 3 days in which to reply with their complete shipping address. If WINNER does not reply within the given timeframe, I will randomly select another winner. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com

ABOUT THE PRIZE:

Each pin has a silk face which I have individually handdrawn, needlesculpted and handpainted. The face is then sprayed with a matte finish sealer so it will not run or smear.

These pin's are entirely designed out of fabric, and are my own original design. Their antennae are made from Swarovski crystals, and their hairdos are created from designer yarns.

They make lovely, whimsical accents to any outfit, and will get a lot of compliments.

GOOD LUCK!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PULP ART

Sculpture of circles made of handmade paper

by

MARTHA of PULP ART

(To learn more about this colorful sculpture, CLICK on either photo)

What an innovative, unique idea! Love all the colors and texture!

I just love finding and learning more about all the fascinating areas of arts and crafts which one can find on Etsy. I'm happy to have Martha and her Etsy shop, PULP ART here on DZFANTASY as a "featured" Etsy shop. Read below to learn more about Martha and her handmade paper creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I began making paper when I got engaged in 1992. I wanted to to make my own invitations and didn’t like the formal options available. I took a two-hour class, bought a mold and deckle and literally haven't stopped making paper ever since.

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

Before motherhood, I was a newspaper writer and editor. I started making greeting cards because I have always loved writing and sending (and receiving) cards. Since then, I have also incorporated pressed flowers into my greeting cards. I just use what I love.

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

I really hate measuring and being precise. I have made hand-bound books and stained glass windows. I have spent 7 hours threading a loom and another 10 hours weaving a wall hanging. I have drawn with charcoal and tried to get the correct proportions of the human body. I have dappled in all kinds of other arts and crafts where measuring is really important and ... I hate it! I love making paper because there is no measuring - just rip up paper, blend it with water and throw it in a vat. I have always been a frugal person, and it appeals to my sense of recycling and reusing. I also love that I can use so many “ingredients” in my paper. I have used shredded money, pot pourri, herbs from my garden, old spices that have lost their punch, love letters, grass clippings from the lawn...

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

Asparagus. The season is short and I always gorge myself on it until it’s gone. Every batch of paper is unique, with its own unique color from the scraps that I have used. I don’t use dyes or bleach to get the color; it all comes from the materials I use. Once its gone, it’s gone.

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

Jewelry making. I love going to bead stores and could spend hours pawing through the beads. I have learned how to “weave” different patterns for bracelets and beaded balls. So much fun.

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

Find multiple purposes for everything in your life. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Aside from sending less to the landfill, you’ll feel a great sense of purpose.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Call yourself what you are: an artist. I used to want to be an “artist” so badly, but I felt that I was just a crafter. A wise friend told me to just claim the title and move on with it already. I did. I applied to an artisans cooperative and got accepted. I have been there 10 years and have expanded myself so much there. I applied to a prestigious holiday juried craft show and got in. I now show at it every year. I never would have done so as a fearful crafter.

THANKS, Martha for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with everyone. It was interesting to learn what you use in making your handmade paper creations.

To see more of what PULP ART has to offer, be sure to click on the links below.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SOUTHERN CHARM QUILTS

Deer Valley rag quilt throw in Joel Dewberry Fabrics

Melanie of

SOUTHERN CHARM QUILTS

Now isn't that a charming, cozy quilt to cuddle up in!

CLICK ON THE QUILT'S PHOTO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT IT

WELCOME, Melanie and her SOUTHERN CHARM QUILTS shop on Etsy. I had fun going through Melanie's shop and seeing all the beautiful quilts, and other items which she creates. When you pay a visit to SOUTHERN CHARM QUILTS, you will find a wide selection of delightful quilts, totes and diaper bags, pillows and shams, and much more to choose from. I just love the charming diaper bag shown below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I watched my Grandma make me clothes and costumes as I grew up, I always loved watching her. I would play at her feet while she worked. I actually learned how to sew in Home Ec. class in high school.

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

I decided to learn how to quilt, because I loved snuggling under them, I could just never afford to buy them, so I thought I could learn to do it myself. That's why I try to keep my quilts so affordable, I know others feel the same way.

X-Large Rag Quilt Bag....Diaper Bag...for baby girl

HOW SWEET! GREAT BABY GIFT IDEA!
(CLICK ON ABOVE PHOTO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS CHARMING BAG)

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


I love picking out the fabrics. It is my absolute favorite part. I could shop for them all day long. I buy so much fabric, that I never even get around to using, I love it that much

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


I would say a pear, but I'm only saying that because its my favorite. Not so crazy about how they taste, I just like the way they look.


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


I used to scrapbook before scrapbooking was cool. I didn't have all the cool things that you can go out and buy now for your scrapbook. I had to make my own. I would stay up all night when my children were babies making their scrapbooks. I haven't touched a scrapbook for 10 years now, but I could definitely take it back up.


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


I don't really have a message to convey. I just like to look at cute stuff.


What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?


I would say to love what you do. If you start to not love it, swap to something else that you do love. There is still a lot of stuff I want to learn to do.

Melanie, your work is truly delightful!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share not only your creations with everyone, but also your thoughts.

Be sure to visit Melanie's links below.

SOUTHERN CHARM QUILTS WEB PAGE

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TWITTER

BEAUTIFUL FIBER SCULPTED FAIRY ... HUGE DISCOUNT!

NEW "SALE OF THE MONTH"

15" SPARKLY BRONZE FAIRY

Wall Accent

BUY HER NOW AND SAVE $30.00

Original Price: $95.00 - Sale Price $65.00

She will be on sale in my DZFANTASY shop on Etsy

July 21 - July 31st.

CLICK on either of her photos to learn more about her!

SOMETHING NEW.....each month, I will be offering one of my creations at a very fantastic savings. Each month I will post the "sale of the month" out here on my DZFANTASY blog, so be sure to stop back for a visit....or you might just want to follow DZFANTASY (follower link in right column) or subscribe to Feedblitz, in the left column.

THANKS FOR VISITING DZFANTASY!

Meet GYPSY ROSE the "reading fairy"!

GYPSY ROSE

To learn more about my latest addition to DZFANTASY, click on Gypsy Rose's photo. She is full of sparkle and fun!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SCENIC NEW YORK

Beach Glass Christmas Tree Glass Tile Pendant, Christmas In July SALE
(CLICK on above photo to learn more about the pendant)

SCENIC NEW YORK is a husband and wife team, but in the interview below we will be hearing from Heather. SCENIC NEW YORK is participating in Etsy's "Christmas in July Sale", which runs through July 22nd, so be sure to stop by for a visit to see what they are offering. You will find a wide selection of beautiful items ranging from unframed photographs, beach lover gifts, pendants, mouse pads and more!

Zen White Waterlily Serene Photograph Mousepad, Christmas In July SALE

(CLICK on above photo to learn more about this item)

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've loved photography since I was a child. My mother encouraged me greatly. She not only bought me my own camera and film, but also took me on day trips where we lived in Pennsylvania so we could take photos (she is also an avid photographer). The other items in my shop are inspired purely by my love of the beauty of the area, especially the beach and lakefront. When my husband and I decided to start Scenic New York, we also decided to create crafts from items found around the state like beach glass and driftwood.

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

For photography, I chose to use a digital camera simply because they are easier to find and the results are instantly available. For the crafts, I have collected beach glass (also called seaglass or sea glass) since I was a child, so using that in various ways just seemed natural. The driftwood fit well with the beach glass, and the other items just came along as we traveled the area taking photos. We did make a decision to use milkpaint as much as possible on painted products because it is eco-friendly and really has no smell when you're using it. It smells a bit like damp earth, and that's it.

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

The travel. I love to see all the beautiful places in the state, even if I've been there many times before. The biggest bonus to this business is spending time with my husband traveling around New York to photograph the landscape as well as collecting materials like the beach glass. I do enjoy creating new products as well, and the challenge of trying to be unique.

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

Hm. I've never thought about that! I would have to go with an artichoke, because there are so many layers to what I do.

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

If I could, it would be painting. I can see so many scenes that I just can't photograph because I can't remove a specific item from the frame. If I could paint them, I could choose to include or leave out items as it suited me. I'm not very good at painting though, I've tried!

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

To stop and SEE the roses! I know it's a play on a cliche, but the main point we want to convey with Scenic New York is the incredible beauty of the state that surrounds us everyday. Sometimes it's not as easy to notice, so we try to "cut out" the distractions by framing a single item in the photo. It's amazing what's here that you'd never even notice as you go about your daily life.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love! Don't give in to trends or pressure to create something you don't like because you think it will sell. If you create something that speaks to your audience, they will pick up on your message and love it just as much as you do.

THANKS, Heather, for a delightful interview and for sharing your creations with everyone.

To learn more about what SCENIC NEW YORK has to offer be sure to click on the links below.

A COLORFUL VISIT TO BOERNER BOTANICAL GARDENS - Hales Corners, WI

Metal sculpture among the flowers.

This morning when my husband and I were trying to decide where we could go today, I suggested that we pay a visit to the Boerner Botanical Gardens, so that I could take some "closeups" of flowers. While that isn't as much his idea of fun as it is mine, he agreed to go!

The flowers and plants were so gorgeous, so I've added some of the photos out here for all to enjoy. I took over 95 photos, and will be sharing more of them from time to time. I do hope you enjoy beautiful "mother nature" in all her glory!

This is the biggest hibiscus flower I've ever seen. This was the only bloom on the whole plant.

A stone sculpture entitled "BLOSSOM"

One of several dozens of different tpyes of "lilies"! So exquisite!

I loved the fluffy green plants behind the statue.

Gorgeous white roses with hints of pink!

It is hard to tell from the photo, but a tiny humming bird had landed on the top of this sculpture. It sat there for quite a while.

The little speck up there on the man's hat, is the humming bird!

Praying Mantas iron sculpture

The pale greens of this plant with the flowers surrounding it, really made it stand out!

There were so many varieties of "lilies!!

I hope you enjoyed the photos. All these gorgeous flower photos gave me a new idea, which I hope to have out in my Etsy shop soon. A fairy (in colors to match the flower) and a photo grouping....might even add a tiny fabric butterfly! What do you think!

BEAUTIFUL BEADED AMULET BAG...by SERENITY COLLECTIONS

Bloomin Berries Amulet Bag
The bag size is 2 1/4" x 3 1/2".

(CLICK on the photo to learn more about this gorgeous bag!)

WOW....look at the detail in this beaded amulet bag by Debbie of SERENITY COLLECTIONS on Etsy. A gorgeous piece of jewelry and a wonderful way to keep track of your cell phone, MP3 Player, or other items.

Debbie is one of my favorite Etsy artists, and I can tell you personally that her work is absolutely exquisite. I have purchased 2 amulet bags from her, and the detail, beauty and quality is fantastic.

Debbie not only sells her work on Etsy through her SERENITY COLLECTIONS shop on Etsy, but has recently opened another shop on ZIBBET. If you are looking for unique "beaded" accents and amulet bags, be sure to visit Debbie's shops by clicking on the links below.

SERENITY COLLECTIONS ON ZIBBET

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PARKWOOD COTTAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Peacock - 8 x 10 Color Print

(CLICK on photo to learn more about it)

WELCOME, Lisa and her Etsy shop PARKWOOD COTTAGE. At PARKWOOD COTTAGE you will find some great photography in a wide range of subjects, including, black and white photos, landscapes, nature, and more!! Lisa offers you your choice of sizes. Be sure to pay a visit to PARKWOOD COTTAGE after you read Lisa's interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

My father was an avid photographer when he was younger, and I think I inherited his love of photography. Also, my husband is an architectural draftsman, and he has taught me to look at things from a design aspect and to see the beauty in small details.

HOMEWARD BOUND - 8 X 10 Colored Pring
(CLICK on above photo to learn more about it)

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

Photography was a default for me - I can't draw or paint, so the only other way for me to capture the images I liked were with a camera.

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

I love editing. It gives me a chance to really study a photograph and look for the minute details that give it character.

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

I think it would be an onion. Onions are composed of layers, and I think photography is the same. The longer you look at a picture, you're able to see deeper into the details that are not visible at first glance.

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

My talents are very limited! I might be able to write a poem.

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

My message would be that there is beauty all around us, even in the smallest of things, and all we have to do is look closely to see it.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be patient, and don't be shy about promoting yourself.

Lisa, it was a pleasure to have you here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist, and to get to learn a little bit about you and your photography.

To learn more about Lisa and PARKWOOD COTTAGE, be sure to visit the links below.

PARKWOOD COTTAGE BLOG

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FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - ALYSSA KAY COLLECTIONS by TRISH VOSS

Wire Wrapped Pendant Gold and Silver - Green Heart Stone

by

Trish Voss

(CLICK on the above photo to learn more about this beautiful pendant!)

I love the beautiful, unique wire wrapping and stones that Trish of ALYSSA KAY COLLECTIONS on Etsy uses in her designs. I happened across Trish's work when I was posting in the Etsy forums for minis to add to my DZFANTASY blog. I was so impressed with Trish's work that I asked her to be a featured artist, so that more people could learn about ALYSSA KAY COLLECTIONS.

Closeup view of the wire wrapping

After reading and learning a bit more about Trish, be sure to pay a visit to ALYSSA KAY COLLECTIONS! Her jewelry is wonderful!

I am a stay at home mom with a two year old daughter. I stumbled across this art as a hobby and really fell in love with it. It gives me that "out" I need during the day to feel as though I have really accomplished something. In the beginning, being a hobby has now turned into wanting to be able to create a business and be home with my daughter for as long as possible.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I had gone to a local jewelry party, and things just seemed so expensive for me. I woke up in the middle of the night and thought “Why can’t I make my own jewelry”. Granted what I am making is nothing like what was at the jewelry party.

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

I tried beading at first and didn’t really think I was that good at it. Then rapidly moved into wire and fell in love with it. Seeing some of the amazing work by other wire artista, it is easy to fall in love and strive for such beauty.

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

I am just amazed at the possibilities of wire art and I guess that is what is most enjoyable, to sit down and sometimes not really have an idea of what the wire will turn into.

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

I guess it would be that anything is possible. Just use your imagination and share with the world.

Wire Wrapped Pendant Pink Crazy Lace Agate

by Trish Voss
(CLICK on above photo to learn more about this elegant pendant)

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Never give up. Find something that you really love and enjoy. Always be true to heart.

THANKS, Trish, for taking the time to express your thoughts, and to share your wonderful creations with everyone!

Be sure to pay ALYSSA KAY COLLECTIONS a visit where you will some more of Trish's beautiful wire wrapped jewelry.

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THE WINNER OF THE DZFANTASY "BLUE BUTTERFLY FAIRY FACE PIN" GIVEAWAY IS..............!

CHARLENE

OF

VIRGINIA

CONGRATULATIONS, CHARLENE!

My giveaway for the above pictured BUTTERFLY FAIRY FACE pin ended July 15, 2009 at 12:00 midnight CST with 31 entries.

Today, my husband randomly selected an entry from the 31 entries received for this giveaway, which I always put on little slips of paper with the person's name, and date of their comment. The first entry he selected was from an entry that had no email or other means of contacting the person, so it had to be disqualified! (It is very important to leave a means of contact in your comment)

The next entry he picked turned out to be CHARLENE'S entry of July 15th!!

I will be shipping Charlene her butterfly fairy pin, first thing tomorrow!

A big "thank you" to all who participated in this giveaway and many of my other giveaways. I always enjoy reading your comments!

My next giveaway will be in September, so do stop back to see what I've come up with.

THE LITTLE FLOWER "BANDIT"

Look who's been nibbling on my flowers!

This little baby bunny is so cute and tiny I just had to put his (or maybe her) photo out here. It just enjoyed a tasty little meal of some of my flowers. Couldn't catch a photo when it had the leaf in its mouth. Maybe next time!

I'm going to be on the lookout to see if I can get a few photos while it is enjoying my morning glories and petunias. It isn't quite tall enough to stand up and reach the flowers in the big brown pot behind it, but it tried!

What would we do without God's little creatures to make us smile!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LOVEMS

Cheetah- Lovems - Baby Security Blanket

(CLICK on the above photo to learn more about this darling CHEETAH LOVEMS)

I just spent a fun half hour going through Nancy's LOVEMS shop on Etsy trying to decide which was the cutest out of her 61 LOVEMS currently listed in her shop! They are so adorable! Each one is more adorable than the next.

Young moms, grandmas or anyone looking for a truly delightful baby gift, be sure to visit LOVEMS. It must be such fun to go looking for all the soft animals that are a part of each LOVEMS.

Read below, to hear in Nancy's own words what made her start creating her LOVEMS.

What led you to creating your art/craft?

I started making the Lovems for my little granddaughter, Maddi. Maddi couldn't carry around a stuffed animal and blanket at the same time, so I decided to take a soft squishy animal and attach it to the softest fabric I could find. Needless to say the Lovems were a hit. They are the perfect size (about 20X20) for the little ones to drag around with them and when you toss them into the car to take along the animal is already conveniently attached. Once other people and family members saw them and kept asking me to make them for them as well, I knew this was something I had to make and sell.

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

I don't think I actually decided on sewing as my outlet for creativity - I think it chose me. I have been sewing as long as I can remember beginning when I was about 5 and I cut up my Dad's new shirt to make Barbie clothes! BOY - was I in TROUBLE! To this day I always ask my mother - "how could I not want to use that shirt - it was a beautiful black western shirt with great big red roses on it?"

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

My favorite part of the creative process is the end result! I have not made a Lovems yet, that doesn't just turn out adorable and I LOVE it when people receive them and send me pictures of their little ones with them.

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

I would say the Lovems are most like a peach - they are all warm and fuzzy!

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

I would love to be able to paint or work with Polymer Clay - although I think I'd better stick to sewing!

Security Blanket - Lovems - Penguin

Can't you just see your "little one" cuddling up to this cute little guy!
(CLICK on the photo to learn more about this LOVEMS)

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

I don't think there is any real message to convey with the Lovems.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

I would tell everyone to do something that they LOVE so it never becomes just another job that you have to do. By the way - my husband would like to thank all of the customers that keep me busy up in my sewing room! And he is relieved that I am not making anymore blankets for around the house - he has always said he felt like he was living in a blanket shop - and now he actually is!

NANCY, thank you for taking the time to share your delightful LOVEMS and thoughts with everyone!! I love the one about using your Dad's shirt!!

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

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SALVAGED EXPRESSION

The Ugly Hat 1 Schizophrenic Sunspot


by

SALVAGED EXPRESSION

(Be sure to click on the photo above to see how this hat got its name)

Let's welcome, Althea and her Etsy shop, SALVAGED EXPRESSION! When you pay a visit to SALVAGED EXPRESSION you will find an eclectic mix of items to choose from....ranging from hats, supplies and vintage, jewelry, candles, other crocheted items and more. Before you head on over to SALVAGED EXPRESSION, let's learn a bit more about Althea and her creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've been creating things in various mediums since I can remember. Occasionally things that would surprise my teachers (a paper spring cannon comes to mind) and continued to do so on my free time from childhood on. I guess I don't have much of a choice!

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

I don't necessarily limit myself to one thing, but there are mediums I always return to. Drawing has always been the backbone of my artsy inclinations. Crochet is practical, but also very artistic and allows me to try many different things. Candles I've just always made and enjoyed. I guess there's something about making a solid clean candle and then lighting it on fire. I get to make things that burn and don't raise your insurance! Recycling was kind of inevitable for me too. I work in the environmental field and haven't always had a lot of money. They go together very well!

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

Brainstorming, though that's more involved than the actual process sometimes! Half the time I'm just sitting around when an idea smacks into my brain like a bullet on reentry and won't let go until I've thought it out and plotted and schemed how to make it happen.

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

The key lime! One because I like them, but also because it's a bit of a black sheep of the citrus family. Sometimes I feel like that, being a multidisciplinary crafter in a market where everyone talks about consistancy. A little cool, a little not, quirky, and hopefully pleasantly surprising.

Big Plarn Messenger Bag

(Be sure to CLICK on the photo to learn the interesting facts of this bag's creation!)

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

I'm planning on taking up painting again soon, but for something I've never tried, I think spinning. There are some truely gasp worthy yarns out there, I even own a few and have a hard time coming up with a project worthy of their awesomeness. I'd love to make something like that, and then sell it so the project becomes someone else's problem!

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

Well someone can take whatever message they like when it comes to arts and crafts. That's part of the fun. That's really what I want people to have, along with each order is fun. Hopefully something that makes them feel a little bolder or to blend the person they want to be with the person they have to be.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don't take advice from me? Just keep it fun. Whether you sell or not keep it fun, remember you're doing this because it isn't supposed to be work!

Thanks, Althea, for sharing your creations and thoughts with everyone. I find it amazing what you can create with recycled goods. It takes a certain type of creativity to come up with all those ideas.

If you'd like to see and learn more about what SALVAGED EXPRESSION has to offer, be sure to visit the links below. It is fun to read the descriptions and what the items were made from.

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THE WINNER OF THE "NAME THE MERMAID" CONTEST IS..............!

ANNE of CANADA

Congratulations, Anne!!

The poll, which included 5 names of mermaids, on which readers of my blog could vote for their favorite name, ended today! The 5 names were randomly selected out of all the entries submitted to my "Name the Mermaid" giveaway.

The voting results were as follows:

SABRINA - 21 votes

MAURA - 0 votes

MER DU CHAUX - 16 votes

SWEET PEA - 0 votes

PERIDOT - 47 votes

I will be shipping "PERIDOT" to Anne sometime tomorrow!

I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to enter the giveaway, and also those who took the time to vote.

I will be planning another giveaway in the coming weeks, so be sure to stop back and see what it is!

If you don't want to miss any of my upcoming giveaways you can either "follow" or "subscribe" to DZFANTASY.

ARTIST REVIEW OF 34th ANNUAL LAKE COUNTRY ART SHOW..Delafield, WI

34th ANNUAL LAKE COUNTRY ART FESTIVAL

Yesterday, Saturday, July 11th, I exhibited in the 34th Annual Lake Country Art Festival which is sponsored by the Lake Country Women's Club of Delafield, WI.

Before the show opened

This was my 3rd show of the 2009 season and was looking forward to seeing how this show would go as far as sales, etc., since the first two shows I had done weren't the greatest for sales. In fact, they were way down from previous years.

I had exhibited at the show in years past when it was held on the grounds of St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, WI., but the show's location has since been changed to Naga-Waukee Park in Delafield.

When my sister arrived at my house at 5:30 a.m. in the morning, it was pouring rain, and we looked at each other and thought "oh, no"!! After days of beautiful weather, wouldn't you know it was raining! Luckily, the weather turned out to be fantastic. Not too hot, breezy, and sunny!!

The Lake Country Women's Club ladies run a very organized show. We found our spot with no trouble, and the big plus of this show was that you can drive right up to your booth and unload!! How great is that! Anyone that does shows, and has had to lug their tents, artwork, and other supplies any distance, knows how wonderful this is!

Section of my booth setup

My sister, Dianne,....best friend, my booth layout artist, and firm supporter!

Everything was going smoothly and we were looking forward to a great day! After we had the booth set up, we took a stroll around to see how the show had changed in the 3 years since we had been there. Much to our disappointment, the show had turned into a "craft show".

Now don't get me wrong, craft shows are great, but what had once been an "art" and "craft" show, with the two mediums separated at the old location, it was now about 80% crafts. It has been my experience in the 12+ years of doing shows, that higher end "art" can't compete with those selling crafts. This was proven, as the day wore on and my sales were the worst of any show I've done in say the last 8 years! At the end of the show, I ended up with about $88.00 after the booth fee of $90.00. Hard not to get depressed with those kind of figures. The economy is definitely affecting sales, big time!

The several artists I know from previous shows, with higher end jewelry, metal sculpture, etc. weren't doing good either. The booths that had the more crafty items had more people in them. Even, with that, one didn't see a lot of bought merchandise going by one's booth. Lower end jewelry and yard art, was what one saw the most.

I'm thinking maybe I should get in to selling "kettle korn" at shows instead of art, as that is where people were spending their money! That, and $6.00 bottles of beer, and $3.00 bottles of water.

This artist was the "featured artist" of the show!

This big guy was getting a lot of attention!

His owner said he was a big "baby"!

Some of my fairies catching the breeze!

Here I am all ready for business!! Where is everybody??

To sum it up, I definitely believe that the economy and the uncertainty of when it will get better is making it very hard for artists and crafters, to break even doing shows. My next show will be coming up on August, 1st & 2nd, at the FIREFLY ART SHOW in Wauwatosa, WI. Since this has always been one of my best and consistent shows as far as sales go, I can hardly wait to see what this year's show will be like. So stay tuned, I'll be back with more info on that show. ONE OF MY FAVORITES!

I'd love to hear how other artists and crafters are doing in other parts of the world, so be sure to leave a comment.