HELP ME DECIDE ON MY NEXT DZFANTASY GIVEAWAY!

I'm looking for help.....and suggestions as to what you, the readers of my DZFANTASY blog, would like to see for my next giveaway!


I've been having monthly "giveaways" for over a year now, there have been giveaways for mermaids, fairies, fairy face pins, butterfly pins, butterflies....WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE FOR THE NEXT DZFANTASY GIVEAWAY! Help me decide.

I'm considering having a "WINNER"S CHOICE" giveaway, where the winner would be able to select any one item in my shop with a value of $50.00 or less. That could mean the winner would have an opportunity to choose a tiny fairy, mermaid, fairy face pin, and more! Any comments on this idea?? Let me know!

Hope you will take time to comment here with some suggestions, as to what everyone would like to see next. You can also visit my DZFANTASY shop by clicking on the "pink fairy" photo below to get a better idea of what is available.

Hope to hear from everyone! THANKS!

I will also be hosting several great "giveaways" from other Etsy artists starting in September.

If there are any Etsy shop owners that would like to have me "host" a giveaway for them, please contact me either via a convo through my DZFANTASY shop, or at this email: dzfairies@msn.com

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MoKoPo Creations

The Women - 11 x 14 Fine Art Print

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this colorful print

Welcome, Megan and her Etsy shop, MoKoPo, where you will find delightful colorful fine art prints, stunning original paintings, along with journals and sketch books.

Take a moment to learn more about this very talented artist by reading her interview below.
What led you to startcreating your art/craft?

Oh goodness! This is the type of question that's difficult for most artists. I think as a child I had a very vivid imagination, but that wasn't good enough for me. I needed to put that imagination on paper and make it into some tangible creation. It was how I related to others. I am still like that to this day. When I have trouble explaining what I'm thinking to someone else I find it much easier to just draw it.

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

My first steps into the artistic world began with drawing. I would sketch everything, with any medium I had at the moment (pencil, pen, colored pencil, crayons...didn't matter). When I was about 11 years old I discovered Bob Ross' "The Joy of Painting" show on PBS and became completely mesmerized by it. I would tape every episode. I got my first Bob Ross Painting Kit for Christmas in 1996, made a complete mess of my parents' living room, and fell in love with painting. Paint has been my medium of choice since then, both oil and acrylic.

NATIVE WOMAN - Original painting by Megan of MoKoPo
CLICK on photo to learn more about this wonderful painting!

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

Brainstorming! My mind often goes way faster than my hand ever could, so at any given time I have a billion ideas floating around in my head. I also enjoy the challenge of executing those ideas. What ends up on the canvas or paper is often different from what I first set out to do, but that's what makes it fun. It keeps me on my toes!

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

Haha, what a great question! This is probably cheating but I'm going to say a Fruit Salad! I'm addicted to color and many of my paintings contain a broad, bright, juicy spectrum. A fruit salad is also representative of my portfolio as a whole- a bunch of different mediums, themes, and techniques that somehow all mesh together to form a cohesive MoKoPo Fruit Salad!

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

I would love to develop my photography skills. I've dabbled in photography a little bit here and there and I absolutely love the medium, but I have a lot to learn. It's something I'm passionate about getting more experience in.

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

I want my art to be fun, light, upbeat, and joyful. I have so much fun creating my work and I want those who see it to feel that same energy. Color is nothing to be afraid of and I hope that some of my color choices push people out of their comfort zone a little bit and allow them to look at color in a different light.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

LOVE what you do! Don't try to create things just because you think people will want to buy them. If your heart isn't in your work, it will show. Find what you love to do and work on developing your craft from there. Finally, never be afraid to challenge yourself and try new things. You might not like the finished product, but you are constantly learning.

Great interview and advice, Megan! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with everyone.

To learn more about Megan and her art, be sure to visit the links below.

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WEB PAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - KI DESIGNS

Domed Pendant Hand stamped personalized necklace

CLICK on above necklace to learn more about this item

WELCOME, Karen and her Etsy shop KI DESIGNS. If you are looking for unique hand-stamped, sterling silver jewelry that you can personalize with names, dates and phrases that have special meaning to you, your loved ones and friends, be sure to visit KI DESIGNS. Her necklaces would make lovely, special gift ideas.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I was making jewelry for myself and for family and friends. People were so happy to receive my creations and would tell me how they treasured them. I wanted to branch out and do this for other people, so I started my own little hand stamped jewelry business.

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

I saw a hand stamped piece in a magazine and was intrigued. I researched everything I needed to know to get started. I was already making bead and wire jewelry so I already had some knowledge about jewelry making.

Blessed Necklace - Personalized Birthstone Necklace, Jewelry

CLICK on photo to learn more about this necklace

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

When I sell something in person, the greatest satisfaction is in people's reactions when they love their piece. It's not quite the same doing online sales, but it is still rewarding. I recently did a custom piece for a woman who had lost her sister unexpectedly in an accident and wanted something special to wear in her memory. The woman's email after she received the necklace brought tears to my eyes.

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 a grape. Not really sure why. Maybe because they are small, like my jewelry. They are very tasty.

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

Well, my other creative outlet, besides my hand stamped jewelry and regular beaded jewelry, is scrapbooking. It is very relaxing for me and I get to express myself.

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

I want to convey that jewelry can be a personal expression. I love doing custom work. I like the challenge of coming up with a design that will express how someone feels.


What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?


Remember that you should enjoy what you are doing. If you don't love it, you won't enjoy it. Also, start slowly. I started off selling to people I knew, and little by little my business grew. I eventually moved on to online sales, and now to Etsy.

Thanks, Karen, for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity here on DZFANTASY. Your work has a charming elegance to it.

To learn more about Karen and her creations, visit the links below.

KI DESIGN WEB PAGE

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A VISIT TO .. DUBUQUE ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDENS

What a stunning dahlia! I never saw one this large!

This past week, my husband and I took an overnight trip to Dubuque, Iowa. I love to go to the Dubque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, so that I can see all the beautiful flowers and gardens, and of course, take photos.

If you'd like to learn more about the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens click on the photo below. This beautiful place is maintained by

all volunteers...some 250 of them.

Gorgeous Hibiscus! One of my favorite flowers!

Since I started creating my new designs of Butterfly Flower Photo Wall Accents, I really couldn't wait to see what wonderful flowers awaited me at the Arboretum this year. We got there just in time, as a lot of the flowers were losing their "perfect bloom". The dahlias and hibiscus blooms were still beautiful and I thought I'd share some of the photos here on my blog. I will be using some of the photos to create my Butterfly Flower Photo wall accents. I love to find the fabric for the butterflies and to match it with the flowers.


I'm not sure what this striking green and white plant was, but loved the contrasts of the green with the white.

This big bee didn't seem to mind that I was that close taking a photo of it. I did notice that a lot of the flowers were being eaten by the Asian Beetles.

There were clusters and clusters of colorful ornamental peppers, so of course they caught my eye!

Since I love color and whimsey I was delighted to find this whimsical gecko in the gardens. It was a fun, beautiful day. One can never get tired of seeing the beauty of nature!

Hope you enjoyed seeing a few of these delightful, flowers.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SEVILLE83 - EXCESS BAGGAGE SOLUTIONS

MIRROR SUNRISE
by

Samantha

Below is the story of the photograph shown above. Samantha of EXCESS BAGGAGE SOLUTIONS, told me this was her favorite item in her Etsy shop. Read below to see why.

I have listed this photo because before my future husband and I were together, he sold me the car that the mirror belongs to , and when I took that picture after not sleeping for almost 24 hours I thought it was kinda neat. After I showed it to him, he had asked if there were any way it could get turned into a poster. That poster is currently in our bedroom.


Samantha, has recently opened her Etsy shop, EXCESS BAGGAGE SOLUTIONS, where she offers handmade tote bags, along with photography, and other items. After reading her interview below, be sure to pay a visit to EXCESS BAGGAGE SOLUTIONS.

SPOOK-TACULAR ORANGE
Trick or Treat Bag

CLICK on photo go learn more about this item

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

What started me initially was going into a quilt shop on vacation and seeing bags that were made out of bits of quilt. I bought a few because I thought they were awesome and as I was looking at them more and more, I realized that these aren't that hard to make, this is something I can do too! For the pictures, photography is something that I've loved for a very long time and I get a lot of compliments on pictures I take and this was one way to share those pictures with everyone.

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

I grew up around my mom making quilts, I knew how to quilt and I do enjoy it. For the photographs I wish I had a darkroom, because then I could go straight up old school with film.

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

For the bags and scarves and such, its that moment right after I finish where I take it off the sewing machine and flip it the right way (for the bags) and take in my finished product. For the photographs, it's seeing them on my camera right after I take the picture.

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

This is a tough one, I guess a potato for the sewing and a kohlrabi for the photos. The potatoes, much like the bags and scarves, can have so many different things done with them. The kohlrabi with the photographs is something that you can't enjoy as many ways, but even so you can still enjoy it.

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

I think pin striping. It's something else I enjoy doing and I can still go around and say "see that there? I did that."

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

There really isn't much of a message with what I do. I'm sure I could come up with one, but there isn't anything underlying.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

The biggest thing I can tell other artists and crafters is to not be afraid to try. You never know how far you'll get if you don't take a risk and give it a shot.

Thanks, Sam, for sharing your thoughts and creativity with everyone. Best of luck to you and your shop, EXCESS BAGGAGE SOLUTIONS!

To see more of Sam's creations, click on her shop links below.

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HOW SMALL CAN I GO? MY NEW SMALL FAIRIES!

I just finished this "wee" fairy, and have decided she is absolutely the smallest fairy I can create! She is the second tiny fairy I have created since I scaled down my design of what I already thought was the tinest figure I could create and still be able to get a good face.

This may not seem small to those artists who create their tiny fantasy fairies out of clays, but when working with fabric, it is quite tiny. Her face measures .50" wide x .75" long. I've found it actually takes me longer to create a tiny fairy such as this than when working with a larger size figure.

Since I love a challenge, I will be creating several more in this size! To learn more about her, click on any of her photos.

The photo below shows the very first of my teeny, tiny fairies, and her face was even a bit smaller, which was almost impossible to do. It measured a little less than .50" wide and a tad more than .50" high. After attempting that size, I increased the face a wee bit.

2.75" high from her "seat" to the top of her head.

Here she is sitting with several of my other size fairies. The Fairy Bride on the left is my middle size fairy and measures approximately 4.5" high from her seat to the top of her head. The little yellow sitting fairy is what used to be my smallest fairy.

Announcing the WINNER of the "Winner's Choice Fairy Face Pin" giveaway!

CONGRATULATIONS to JESSIE of FLORHAM PARK, NEW JERSEY!

Jesse,'s entry of August 3rd, in my DZFANTASY "Winner's Choice Butterfly Fairy Face Pin" giveawy is the lucky winner of the blue butterfly fairy pin shown above.

Jesse's name was randomly selected out of the 34 entries I received for this giveaway, which ended August 24 at 12:00 Midnight CST.

A big "thank you" to all who entered, and for your lovely comments. I'm always running new giveaways, at least once a month, sometimes more, so be sure to stop back and see what you might be able to win.

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - CHRISTEN LARGENT, METALSMITH

Journal Circle Bracelet with Birthstone Setting

Customize with your choice of words in my NEW Journaling Lowercase Font. Shiny or Oxidized Finish

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this item

I'm happy to bring you the fine designs of Christen Largent, Metalsmith from Etsy. You really must pay a visit to Christen's shop to see all of her great jewelry designs. There is a wide variety of items in her shop. Christen offers customized/inscribed bangles, bracelets, personalized pendants for both men and women, gorgeous rings, and more....!

Let's read Christen's interview below to get a bit more of an insight into this talented jewelry artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always worked with my hands, (I'll spare you the line-up of mediums over the years!!) but around the time that my son was born, I started wire-working...making jewelry, teaching the art, etc. and as I was working with wire, I realized that there were limitations. My dad did some metalsmithing in school, so he gave me my first lesson in soldering and the rest is history!

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

It found me! First with wire and then just all-out metal! I'm basically a crow anyway - anything pretty and shiny and I'm in love!

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

A challenge - thinking up an impossible piece with a bazillion soldering joints and seeing it all come together...it's like I've conquered the limitations of metal!! I'm not even a REALLY, REALLY experienced metalsmith, so I can't wait to see what the future brings!

Spring Crocus Stacked Sterling Rings . set of three

made to order in your size (whole, half or quarter sizes)

CLICK on the ring's photo to learn more about this item

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

This is a great question because I LOVE to garden....I think I will say a tomato because if you've ever seen a successful tomato farmer, and ask him how his tomatoes are so healthy and prolific, he'll tell you it takes years of practice, knowing what the tomatoes need in order to thrive and tender loving care. And that's exactly what metalsmithing takes. You can't just say one day "I think I'll metalsmith"! and just jump in and start making beautiful things. It takes learning the "rules" (science behind metal and flame), having the right tools, and a great deal of patience and tender loving care, and YEARS AND YEARS of practice. You're going to melt things down, you're going to burn and cut yourself, but you just keep going!

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

I am an avid scrapbooker and LOVE layout design. It is somewhat similar to building a piece of jewelry too!

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

My message, first and foremost, is the beauty of nature and the awesomeness of God who created it! I get inspired EVERY DAY when I look around me! God created metal and the physical properties of metal too, so I'm grateful all the way around!!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Find something that you LOVE and do it with all your heart, soul and mind! It's great to be able to sell it, but if it's a choice of something that nourishes your soul or something that nourishes your bank account, choose your soul!!!

Christen, thank you for a delightful interview! It was fun learning more about the artist behind the beautiful jewelry, and to see your work.

If you'd like to see more of Christen's creations, be sure to click on the photos and link below.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MopTop Maven

Dainty Rose Woven Ribbon Snap Clip
CLICK on photo to learn more about this item

Let's weclome, Melanie, and her Etsy shop, MopTop Maven.

Melanie makes the most darling, colorful hair clips, which will look so cute on your little one's hair! Be sure to stop by for a visit. Now let's hear from Melanie, in her own words, as she tells us a bit more about herself, and what made her start creating her delightful clips.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I spent a few years busy with life - graduating college, working, getting married, returning to graduate school, having a baby...all truely wonderful things. But I really missed crafting. I enjoy all kinds of mediums, and had put it off while I kept busy with other things. My daughter's sprouting hair sparked something in me. I wanted to create for her, things similar to what my mother made for me and my sister. My signature item is the woven ribbon snap clip. It's a spin on the double bar braided barrettes my mother made in the 1980s. I think I've updated it well! Most importantly, I wanted to get back some relaxing me time, and this allows me that opportunity.

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

The bulk of my work is in ribbons. It's the traditional medium for childrens hair clips. I've searched all over to find interesting embellishments, buying from many sources. The combinations are ENDLESS! And shopping for it is fun.

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

I really enjoy making the color combinations. I need to coordinate ribbon and embellishments, and make items in enticing colors. I need to consider my audience, and the major clothing lines for children so that parents can find coordinating accessories. It's a challenge, but it's always bright and colorful in my world.

What a pretty way to keep track of those hair clips!

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this item.

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

My craft is a Clementine – sweet and small! And brightly colored. Transportable too.

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

Decoupage! I love paper and glue and creating layers and layers of beautiful colors and scenes. I plan to incorporate decoupage works in the near future through gift boxes. I've already started my toddler on decoupage projects - it's something we can enjoy together.

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

I want to convey individuality. I aim to design pieces that are different from the usual choices and unique in and of themselves. Even though I'm new to selling my work, I hope that each of my pieces has its own flair that won't be duplicated.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Go with the flow. Move at your own pace. Enjoy what you are doing, or put it away.

Thanks, , for sharing your cute creations and thoughts with all of use. To see more of what MopTop Maven has to offer click on the photos or link below.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - JACQUELINE'S CREATIONS

BLUE GLASS DANGLE EARRINGS

WELCOME, Jacqueline and her Etsy shop, JACQUELINE'S CREATIONS as a featured jewelry artist here on DZFANTASY.

If you are looking for simply designed, yet elegant looking jewelry, be sure to pay a visit to JACQUELINE'S CREATIONS after you learn a bit more about the artist by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft

I have always felt creative. That has led to my creating.

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

I have tried a lot of things. I enjoy mostly jewelry, knitting, clay, scrapbooking, and card making. I guess I have a lot of mediums to work with. I like them all so I never could just pick one.

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

The finished product. I love to see what ends up being after I get going with an idea. The project taking shape so to speak.

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

I would choose a strawberry. I would choose that just because it is my favorite fruit and I think it's beautiful.

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

I would choose metal. I would choose that because I love shiny things.

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

I want to make people smile and feel pretty.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

I would tell them to just keep doing what they love.

Jacqueline, thanks for taking the time to be featured on DZFANTASY. It was fun seeing your creations and getting to know a little bit about you.

If you want to see more of Jacqueline's work, be sure to visit her links below.

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FIBER FANTASY "BUTTERFLY" WALL ACCENT GIVEAWAY

DZFANTASY'S new giveaway is for the WINNER"S CHOICE of one of my fiber sculpted "BUTTERFLY WING" wall accents.

At the end of the giveaway, the WINNER will be able to choose from whatever butterflies wings are currently available in my DZFANTASY shop on Etsy, or they may choose to have a "custom" butterfly wing designed for them in their choice of colors.
Swarovski crystal and unique glass bead body

CLICK on my DZFANTASY link below to see what BUTTERFLY WALL ACCENTS are currently available:

DZFANTASY

START DATE: August 19, 2009

END DATE: September 19, 2009 - 12 midnight CST

PRIZE: 1 Butterfly Wing wall accent - WINNER to choose from any butterfly wing in my DZFANTASY shop at end of giveaway OR have a custom one designed in their choice of colors.

VALUE: $25.00

OPEN: WORLD WIDE

RULES TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment in this post, along with your email address or another "active" link, so that I may contact you should you be the lucky winner.

2. At the end of the giveaway, a WINNER will be randomly selected from all the entries received. WINNER will be notified by email ONLY, so please be sure to leave a means of contacting you.

3. WINNER will have 3 days in which to respond to my email notifying them that they have won the giveaway. If the WINNER does not respond within the given timeframe, I will have to randomly select another WINNER.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me (Donna) at: dzfairies.com

These BUTTERFLIES make beautiful little wall accents. They measure approximately 9" wide from top tip to top tip, and 7" high from top of wing tip to bottom of wing tip. Their bodies are designed from Swarovski crystals and other glass beads. The wings are stuffed with acrylic fiberfill, topstitched into a design and have inner wire armatures.

Below is a photo showing one way in how they can be displayed.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SHOP REMINISCENCE

Shabby Chic blank card - blue and pink - choose your own sentiment

CLICK on card's photo to learn more about this item.

With all the lovely original designed handmade cards available, why would anyone want to send or give a store bought card! Cards like these will make someone feel "extra special"!

I'm happy to have Jocelyn and her Etsy shop, SHOP REMINISCENCE, here on DZFANTASY so that you can learn more about her lovely handmade greeting cards. Read below to hear what Jocelyn has to say in her own words, and then be sure to stop by and pay SHOP REMINISCENCE a visit.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

My aunts actually got me started on scrapbooking when I was about 13 or 14. At the time, it was not nearly as evolved as it is now. My first albums are full of colorful paper and sparkly stickers! I sort of got out of it going through college and started it back up again a couple years ago, and boy did I get a strong feeling of culture shock. No more were the sparkly stickers, the construction-like paper, and outdated patterns. Instead were inking techniques, layering techniques, 3-D embellishments, rhinestones, flowers, oh my! Then I took a greeting card class at my local scrapbooking store and was hooked. I started making them for friends and family and they were such a hit that I decided to take the leap to try to sell them.

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

Scrapbooking wouldn’t be scrapbooking if I didn’t use the one thing that is the foundation of it all, paper. Oh how I love my paper! But there are so many different mediums that can be used in scrapbooking that I could never choose just one of them. I also love working with all the different varieties of embellishments that are available. A scrapbook store is my candy shop!

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

Once I figure out my layout, be it a scrapbook page or greeting card, I love putting the whole thing together and watching it evolve right in front of me. Sometimes it turns out better than I had imagined…and sometimes not. So I have fun tweaking things to see what different effects I can get.

Custom Cards - Set of 4 - Choose Your Favorite's from Shop Inventory

CLICK on photo to learn more about this item

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

I really have to reach into my imagination for this one! Can I choose a fruit salad?! When I make a fruit salad I like to put in all sorts of different ingredients to create an arrangement of taste and contrast in color. Each piece of fruit adds its own taste to the mix and without it, it just wouldn’t be the same. In my scrapbooking, I like to use all sorts of different ingredients like paper, brads, rhinestones, glitter, ink, flowers (and the list goes on) to create one masterpiece (or so I like to think of it as such – a girl can dream). And I’m always putting different ingredients together to get different “tastes”.

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.

I have always admired and envied those who have mastered that technique. I think if I took the time to take some classes I could definitely incorporate it into my card making.

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

When someone receives one of my handmade cards, I want it to make them feel special! Too often do we receive birthday cards and thank you cards that we just throw away and never think twice about. I hope my cards are something people will receive and want to put in their own scrapbook or keepsake chest so they can look back on it to cherish and remember the person who gave it to them.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love and love what you do. Otherwise, what’s the point? Keep evolving your craft to make it fun and stimulating. And never underestimate the power of a handmade gift.

Thanks, Jocelyn, for a great interview, and for sharing your creativity with everyone.

Be sure to pay a visit to Jocelyn's links below to see what she has to offer.

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - JENNI THOMSON FROM RIVER BIRD

Big Red Flower Table Art

by

RIVER BIRD

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this item.

WELCOME, Jenni, and her Etsy shop which she calls RIVER BIRD. I love the bright colors and fun designs of this artist's creations! Treat yourself and pay a visit to RIVER BIRD on Etsy where you will find stunning handpainted table art. Your table settings will never look so good!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I had been painting for awhile when my mom asked me to make some table art for her friends. They were such a hit with her friends I decided to keep making them!

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

I had been sketching since I could hold a pencil, but really wanted to start adding more vibrant color to my work and colored pencils just wasn’t enough. So I thought I would try my hand at painting…

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

Having the ability to bring to life the ideas in my mind is the most enjoyable part of creating and I love the fact that with flowers it allows me to use bold and bright colors.

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

Black raspberries definitely! They are sweet and delicious, but still you can’t find them at any old grocery store. If you’ve never tried a black raspberry you must, just like table art if you’ve never heard of it you should check it out

Painted Orange Zinnia Table Art

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this item

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

I’ve always loved to do collage pieces so intriguing. I like putting together different pieces that you wouldn’t expect to create something really interesting to look at.

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

I think life should be fun; so many people are afraid of adding color to their homes and end up with lots and lots of beige. Take a chance, you will enjoy adding color to your life!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Have confidence in your work! I was so insecure about my art I thought what I made wasn’t good enough, or if I thought I was good I didn’t want to seem like I was bragging. Be proud of what you do there is nothing wrong with that.

I agree with Jenni...USE color!! Using color not only brightens our homes, but it also can brighten our outlook on life! Thanks, Jenni, for sharing your ideas and colorful creativity with all of us.

To see more of Jenni's delightful art, be sure to visit the links below.

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Greenhaired FAIRY BRIDE...my latest in my WEDDING FAIRY COLLECTION!

3.5" high, sitting FOREST FAIRY BRIDE sculpture. She is now listed on EBAY. Click on her photo to learn more about her. She is really sweet!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - POOKIE AND PIERRE

Dream in Color Sterling Silver Earrings

(CLICK on the above photo to learn more about these beautiful earrings!)

WELCOME, Emily and her Etsy shop POOKIE AND PIERRE, where you will find some very stunning and beautiful jewelry. I love the colors and textures that Emily creates with her designs. Be sure to pay POOKIE AND PIERRE a visit! It is very hard to decide which creation is your favorite.

Let's read below to learn a bit more about this delightful jewelry artist, and what inspires her to create.

What led you to start creating your art/craft, and how did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I have always had creative inclinations and a love of color and texture and desire to create beauty. I dabbled in painting for awhile before a friend introduced me to the joys of beading about 5 years ago! My first visit to a bead store, I was like a kid in a candy shop! So much color to play with. At one point, on a trip to Asheville, NC, I saw some stunning beadwoven pieces that led to my desire to delve into beadweaving. I am self taught and proud of that fact. I made jewelry for awhile, giving most of it away to my mom who was fighting breast cancer at the time. My mom passed away in September of 2007 following her 10 year battle. Following her passing, I lost my desire to do anything while I grieved this tremendous loss. I miss her everyday. I kept coming back to the fact that what was most important to my mom was that I was happy.

Her goal for me ultimately brought me back to my love of jewelry making and starting again has helped me through the healing process. I also realized that given my experience, I had a unique opportunity to not only do something that I loved, but to give back to others by contributing to a cause that is near and dear to my heart. I am currently contributing 75% of my sales of Pookie and Pierre jewelry to the Susan G. Komen foundation through my participation in the 3 Day Walk.

Little Mermaid Drop Earrings

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

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

There are so many things I find enjoyable. Two primary reasons though. I find peace in weaving beads together. I often bead in silence as it gives me time to focus and think and let go of all of the outside stresses in my life. My day job is purely business so beading gives me the creative balance that I need. It has been extremely therapeutic for me to begin creating again. My second is my love of color and sparkle! I often dream of color and all of the various combinations I can make. Beading allows me to bring it all to life and ultimately share that joy with others.

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

Let's just say fruit salad. Not sure why, but something about bringing all of the different colors, textures and flavors together is pretty similiar to the process I go through. Fun question!

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

I love to learn new techniques. If I had to pick one, I'd delve further into painting. For similiar reasons to beading, I love the peaceful aspect of it. I can get lost for hours in a painting. Its like a mini-vacation from life. It has given me a whole new appreciation for all of the brilliant artists out there that create such amazing work.

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

My message I'd love to convey with my jewelry is to enjoy life! It is short and sometimes a little sparkle can add that extra joy that we sometimes miss in the day to day.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love and you are ultimately responsible for your own happiness. Be confident in your creativity and don't be afraid to go out on a limb and try something new. Innovation will keep you fresh and will keep your creative juices going for a long time to come. I'd also say not to worry about what others think. Someone out there will love what you create more than you will ever know.

Beautiful work, great interview, Emily! It has been a real pleasure to see your gorgeous creations, and to learn a bit more about you. I'm sure your mom "knows" you are happy doing what you are doing! Keep on creating!

Visit the links below to see more of Emily's beautiful creations. Oh...I just learned that POOKIE AND PIERRE are Emily's two kittens!

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - KNOT SHOP

Hemp bracelet or anklet - macrame jewelry - white with colorful glass beads

(CLICK on photo to learn more about this creation)

When you pay a visit to the KNOT SHOP on Etsy, you will see that Shannon takes hemp/macrame beaded jewelry to a new level. Her designs include beaded bracelets, ribbon bracelets, anklets, necklaces and more.

Read below to learn a bit more about this macrame jewelry artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Mi amore who is my inspiration.

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

In horticulture classes, I learned about the value of growing and using hemp for our environment. It’s eco-friendliness is the main reason I chose this fiber. It is also durable and I want my pieces to last. Hemp is the second strongest natural fiber available. The first? Human hair. I chose hemp.

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

I enjoy playing with the sparklies! (beads), I enjoy the meditative nature of the knotting. The best is seeing others gain enjoyment from my creations.

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

A pumpkin. As they grow, these guys spread out and demand more and more space each day.

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

Acrylic paint on canvas. Macrame is an outlet for the craftsman in me. Painting, the artist.

Hemp bracelet or anklet - macrame jewelry - Rasta design

CLICK on above photo to learn more about this creation

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

Hemp! Not just for hippies!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If you build it, they will come.

Shannon, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and your creative use of hemp in your jewelry designs.

To see and learn more about Shannon's jewelry, be sure to visit her links listed below.

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ACTUALI DESIGN

Sealed With a Kiss Romantic Greeting Card

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

WELCOME, Ali and her Etsy shop, ACTUALI DESIGN. When you visit ACTUALI DESIGN, you will find Ali's original designed greeting cards which will let you tell someone that they are "special".

Let's learn a little more about Ali by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

A few years back, my mom bought me a book from her crafter's bookclub on cardmaking, as I'd been creating handdrawn cards for friends and family for years. The book really opened my mind to multimedia greeting cards. I'd never thought to take a crafty approach over a fine art one. I went out to Michael's shortly thereafter, and stocked up! I decided I was going to sell cards at the annual craft sale at my cottage, and I did. I've been doing it every year, since.

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

Like I said, that book really opened my eyes to the possibilities. At first, I stuck largely to paper materials and brads. You know, the basic scrapbooking materials. Over the years, I've added to my collection with rubber stamps, die cuts, and other traditional things, but I've also begun using things like buttons, fabrics, and other fun finds. I love experimenting! As far as my small print collection, I really got into digital arts as a result of wanting to be a graphic designer. It led me to experimenting with software like Adobe Illustrator, and I found that I really enjoyed it!

White Tulips Print

(CLICK on photo to learn more about this beautiful card)

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

My favourite part is just sitting down in my studio, and sifting through all my supplies, considering all the possibilities. I love trying different combinations, and often do so for almost an hour before I actually settle on one, and make a card!

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

Hah, I like this question! I'd have to say an orange. It helps that I love oranges, but they're also a good symbol of freshness, which I equate with modernism. If you know your colour theory, you know that the colour orange signifies happiness and energy, as well as being a great out-of-the-ordinary attention catcher. That has a lot to do with why I chose to use a yellow-orange in Actuali Design's logo!

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

I would love to try letterpress. It's an obvious extension of my love for digital art. Typography fascinates me, and letterpress would be a great way to play around with that.

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

With my cards in particular, I want to make it feel more personal. I don't like the idea of stocking up with a ton of cheap cards from the dollar store, and working your way through the pile of boringly ambiguous cards as you need them. Cards are supposed to let someone know you're thinking of them, and picking a handmade card just for them contributes to that.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If you decide to take your hobby from just that to a business, don't get too caught up in the business side of things. Remember that you're doing this because it's what you love. If it's not, you're doing the wrong thing.

Great interview, Ali! I love your thoughts and ideas. Thanks for taking the time to share your creativity with everyone.

To learn more about Ali and see more of her designs, be sure to visit her links below.

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