FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BOW WOW PET

Pet Dog Pajamas/ Romper

by BOW WOW PET

WELCOME, Mandy and her delightful Etsy shop, BOW WOW PET.  Here you will find colorful, fun gifts for your loveable 4 footed friends.  How about a "doggie PJ" like the one shown above!  Keep your friend warm and cozy. You will also find colorful, handmade collars to make your friend stand out in a crowd.

Pet Collar Large - Christmas Holly Cotton

Let's find out how Mandy decided to create items for pets.

What led you to start creating your art/craft

My mom and I started making purses for craft shows, one pet item eventually led to over 20 handmade pet items. I always had trouble finding cute things for my boy dog or it never fit right so we began designing our own.

One lucky dog!  Doesn't he look happy!

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

We started making purses and learned at craft festivals people didn't buy for themselves as much as the did for their children or furchildren.

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

I love creating a new and different items, and then having my model try it on and taking his picture. He loves to pose and model the newest wears.

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

Strawberries because our items and bright and colorful full of fun and always make the pets look sweet.

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 draw to channel my creativity, but I have no talent what so ever in that area. Not even stick people come out cute! HeHe

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

Our pets are fun and full of life and a major part of our lives, therefore let's bring some life and fun into their collars and clothing.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what you love and enjoy. Bring joy to those who buy and use your products.

Thanks, Mandy, for sharing your thoughts and creativity with all of us!  Love your cute little model.  He looks like he really enjoys having his photos taken.

To learn more about Mandy and BOW WOW PET, be sure to visit her links below.

BLOG

BOW WOW PET WEBPAGE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

WINNER OF THE WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY FROM ANA'S HOUSE DRESSING IS......

BARB C.

of

MURRYSVILLE, PA

CONGRATULATIONS, BARB!

The "Winner's Choice Giveaway for one of Ana's delightful, decorative tassels ended November 25, 2009 at 12:00 midnight with 52 entries.  The WINNER had the opportunity to pick out any "tassel" of their choice that was in Ana's shop on Etsy - ANA'S HOUSE DRESSINGS

Barb's entry of 10/27/09, was randomly selected out of the 52 entries received, and she picked this charming black and white bird tassel.

A big "thank you" to Ana for having me host her wonderful giveaway, and to all of you who entered. Ana has a great selection of whimsical tassels and very reasonable prices, so be sure to pay her shop a visit.

DZFANTASY always has giveaways running in the upper right column of this blog, so be sure to stop by and see what the latest giveaway is.

Become a follower so that you don't miss out of any of the latest news, giveaways, and features.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - TO BOLDLY FOLD ..The Art of Paper

Softcover Golden Brown Leather Sketchbook or Journal

with Slate Grey Thread and Vintage Button - Edition 115

by Melissa

"I love when the natural edge of the leather creates the perfect edge for the books. It's such a great combination of structure and nature."

Melissa of TO BOLDLY FOLD on Etsy creates truly wonderful, unique, quality leather journals and sketchbooks.  They are truly works of art, and would make wonderful gift ideas.

Below, Melissa tells us, in her own words, how her creativity evolved into creating her leather journals and sketchbooks.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?


I've been an artist all my life, but I think one of the biggest influences was being exposed to art at an early age. I always went to museums a lot when I was little, and it definitely inspired me.

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

I was always drawing and writing in books, but I found that I was never satisfied with the quality of mass produced sketchbooks. I started to see the need for better quality when I was in art school, so I started making books as a hobby.

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

I think finding new inspiration is my favorite part of the experience. There are a billion possibilities, and it's always great brainstorming crazy ideas.

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 apple. Fall is my favorite season, and I'm always inspired by it and by nature. Apples have so many uses and can be used as a symbol for many different things. My work is created to inspire others and has many different uses as well.

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

I'm constantly switching between mediums in my work. I don't consider myself a specific type of artist. I am an artist, and that encompasses many different types of mediums. I love that because it allows exploration and constantly opens up new doors to new work.

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

I want to convey possibility. I create my work so that others can have a place to create theirs. My greatest excitement comes when people show me the work that they have created in the pages of the journals and sketchbooks that I have made. I'm glad to be a part of their creative process.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

If it is your dream and your passion, go for it. No matter what stands in your way, take it one day at a time and figure things out. Also, be organized!


Melissa, thanks for a great interview and sharing your creativity with all of us!!  Your creations are very beautiful and I love the natural look of them.

To learn more about Melissa and her art, be sure to visit her links below.  What perfect gifts!

BLOG

COLORFUL, FUNKY, FELINE "FAIRY"!

If you love fairies and felines, this might be just the fairy you need to come live with you!  She is sure to brighten your day and bring a bit of magic!  She won't be any trouble.....well then again, you never know she could be a bit mischieveous at times!

To learn more about her, click on the link below.

FELINE FAIRY

Now is the time to get a 20% discount on any item in my DZFANTASY shop!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BLUE BIRDS AND BLOSSOMS

Berries purple pink fuschia warm scarf hand knit

by

Romy

WELCOME, Romy and her Etsy shop BLUE BIRDS AND BLOSSOMS.  When you pay a visit to Romy's shop, you will find not only a wide variety of handknit scarves and neck warmers, but also her delightful, original fine art....STILL LIFE, ABSTRACT, LANDSCAPES and more! 

First, let's take a moment to learn a bit more about this talented artist by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Like many people I did a lot of arts and crafts when I was a child. I think my mom probably still has some of my childhood drawings from when I was about 5 years old.


In college, I studied earth sciences, never took any art classes, as I was planning to work in the science field. I guess you could say through a twist of fate I wound up working as a photographer. Science became the hobby and art became the career. From there I just kept expanding into different art mediums… photography, painting, fiber arts, etc.

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

I think the mediums choose me. Seems like I'm drawn to them, the creative energy seems to flow through me to whatever medium - like an urge to express that energy.

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

The whole process… from being inspired and coming up with ideas for new pieces, to creating those pieces, and finally hearing from collectors how much they enjoy that artwork in their home makes the circle complete.

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

Had to think about this one… I'd say a wild fruit tree. They grow as part of the local ecosystem and according to the local micro-climate conditions. Wild fruit trees aren't dependant on all the inputs of fertilizer and stuff that a cultivated fruit tree is, they adapt to whatever is available. Times when everything they need is in abundance they give sweet and tasty fruit that you can't find in any store.

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

Probably either clay, mosaics, or landscape design. (Guess I couldn't choose just one - laughing). I enjoy working with my hands and also enjoy working with the earth. When I see a bare patch of ground in the garden I imagine all the beautiful flowers and edibles that can grow in that space.

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

My personal belief is to try to contribute positively to the world in whatever I do. Through my art I try to convey the beauty and simplicity of the natural world… as our lives get more hectic, complicated, and technologically advanced I find myself longing for the simpler things in life. So through art, I try to give the viewer not only a positive place to escape to for a moment, but a space to explore their own personal connection with the natural world.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Believe in your abilities… always keep learning, growing, and experimenting with your art or craft. As far as the business side goes… continue to educate yourself on running a business. Realize that it takes a lot of discipline and perseverance to be self employed, and it takes even greater perseverance to be self employed in the arts field.

GREAT, interview, Romy!  I love how you express yourself, not only in your creative talents, but in your words as well.
 
To learn more about this delightful artist, visit her links below.  Romy has also started "featuring" other artists (myself included), and you can read about them on her blog.

BLOG

WEBSITE

TWITTER

ETSY HOLIDAY SALES -Start your Christmas shopping early at DZFANTASY.

FIBER SCULPTED "STAR FAIRY"

No need to wait until after THANKSGIVING to start getting 20% off of any creation in my DZFANTASY shop on Etsy.  Now is the time to be able to buy a higher priced creation at a big savings, or several smaller items!! Save 20% on total purchase.

WHERE:  DZFANTASY (click on the words DZFANTASY to enter my shop), or CLICK on the photos or link below the photos.

SALE STARTS:  Now through December 15th, 2009, 12:00 MIDNIGHT

SALE: You can purchase any item/s in my shop and receive 20% discount. When making a purchase, reference code: DZFANTASY20%.  Your 20% discount will be refunded through PAYPAL after your payment is received.

Please feel free to contact me - DONNA - at dzfairies@msn.com

if you have any questions.

This is a ONE TIME sale at this 20% discount.

There will be many shops on Etsy participating in BLACK FRIDAY AND CYBER MONDAY promotions...so don't miss out on all the "specials" that will be going on at ETSY!!

FRIDAY FEATURE on BONZAI BEADWEAR blog!

Bonnie of BONZAI BEADWEAR on Etsy has just featured me on her blog!  If you'd like to learn a bit more about me....take a peek!  I love featuring other artists, and it is also fun to be featured.  THANKS, BONNIE!

CLICK HERE TO VISIT: BONZAI BEADWEAR BLOG

Bonnie designs/creates beautiful jewelry, so if you visit her blog, be sure to visit her Etsy shop.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS - Hand Crafted Jewelry

Blue Chalcedony, Blue Lace Agate and Sterling Silver 3 piece set

3 piece set includes earrings, bracelet and necklace. Awesome pale blue color with lacey bands of white and opaqueness.  Necklace: 18 inches with a Blue Chalcedony Druzy Pendant focal, Blue Lace Agate faceted ovals and rounds with accents of Sterling Silver and a Sterling Silver Lobster Claw clasp.

When you pay a visit to ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS, the beautiful handcrafted set above is just one of the many delightful pieces of jewelry you will see. 

Now is a great time to shop at ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS as they are offering the following discount:

At check out in the comments/instructions box please put "DZFANTASY20%" to receive your 20% off. It will be refunded via paypal after checkout is complete.


ALEXANDER DESIGN'S is a husband and wife team which creates beautiful, jewelry ......(as said in Jenny's Profile) "using a unique blend of Swarovski crystals, lamp work and glass beads, semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, fine silver, pewter, and gold. Some pieces are playful, bold with lots of color and some pieces are simple yet very beautiful."


Let's read below as Jenny gives us a glimpse as to how ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS came to "be".


What led you to start creating your art/craft

I have been crafty for as long as I can remember, but what led me to jewelry was a fundraiser for a not-for-profit that I worked for. We made "Bracelets for Literacy" to help raise funds for our programs. I have been addicted to beads ever since.


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

I really like to work with everything. Just about everything appeals to me, stones, metals, glass, and crystals. I love to combine them together, the look and feel they have just amaze me. I do stay away from flames these days, I have burnt holes in chairs and have almost burnt a hole through my thigh. So my hubby gets to do most of the flame related things! But he loves it and that is what appeals to him, being able to heat something up to completely transform it. I catch him admiring his own work alot!

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

The peace it gives me. Almost everyone but a cat leaves me alone to create. My hubby and I share a room, but when we are working we are very quiet. It is stress relieving for me. I also love the end result, seeing someone's eyes light up because they have found the piece for them.


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

An apple, our craft is ever growing and ever changing. We are always experimenting with new materials and techniques.


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

Painting, I have always loved to paint. Since my kids came along I have not painted on canvas, just walls! The whole world gets left behind when I paint, it is just me and my painting surface. Again very stress relieving for me!


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

Affordable, wearable art! I want everyone to be able to afford my art, I want them to be able to wear it with many outfits and wear it almost every day. I want people to treasure it, but wear it and hand it down to their children.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Get out there and do it! I was scared at how people would see my art/craft. But it was so worth it. I love doing something that I feel good about and I wish that for everyone. The world would be a happier place if everyone could do something that they loved doing. We are a completely self-employed household, and it is very hard some months, but we are still happy. Dive in and do it, you never know till you try!


Thanks, Jenny, for a wonderful interview and sharing you and your husband's wonderful creativity with all of us.  I think it is so great that you can create and work together doing something you both love!!

To see and learn more about the artists behind ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS be sure to visit the links below:

BLOG

WEB PAGE

TWITTER

FANTASY ...A Crack in Time - Treasury by FABRIC CRAFT

I decided the fairies must be working their magic for me....this is the third treasury they've been in the last three days!  Here my Rainbow Butterfly fairy is in very good company. 

This delightful "fantasy" treasury was put together by Yael of FABRIC CRAFT on Etsy.  THANKS, Yael!  Yael has two Etsy shops.  Her other shop is called PAZZAPAZZA

Here is a link to the above FANTASY treasury, if you'd like to check out the delightful fantasy items in the individual shops.

FANTASY - A Crack in Time

BE THANKFUL TREASURY

I just found out my Native American inspired Fairy made it into a treasury tonight on Etsy.  This treasury was a collaborative effort by WHATSHERHAME and SANDYSCAPECODORIG'S on Etsy.  Thanks for including me ladies.  Below is the link to this treasury if you'd like to visit the shops and get a better view of what each shop has to offier.

BE THANKFUL TREASURY

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PICCOLINA DESIGNS

Bobbing for Apples Tutu

The "Bobbing for Apples Tutu" is created with a spectrum of apple hues in Gala red, Golden Delicious and Granny Smith green tulle. A truly scrumptious treat for your little girl!

WELCOME, Mia and her Etsy shop, PICCOLINA DESIGNS. What will you find at PICCOLINA DESIGNS......?  The most darling colorful tutus to make YOUR little one look like a princess!  The colors are enchanting, and Mia will be happy to work with you on a custom order, so be sure to pay her shop a visit.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

When I discovered I was pregnant with my daughter, I began looking for modern children's clothing and was surprised to find that there weren't a lot of options. It inspired me to pull out my sewing machine and start making them myself. When she was about six months old, and becoming a mobile maniac, I decided to purchase her a tutu for a six month photo shoot. I had a vision in my mind of what I wanted, but could not find what I was looking for... and it spiraled from there. I had several friends and family members with young daughters who were endowed with tutu gifts, and I began getting orders through word of mouth. I recently started my website and Etsy site, and it has been a wonderful experience. The craft community is so supportive of each other, and have helped make it a smooth transition into the online business. It is extremely rewarding when someone falls in love with something you design.

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

I usually am inspired by my daughter to create something. I make my first design for her, and the most enjoyable part is seeing her enjoy wearing it!

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

Interesting question! Definitely a fruit, as tutus are full of sweetness. My choice would be an apple. They come in a variety of bold colors and I have been inspired by the apple orchards & Tree Adventure of Nebraska City to create one of my tutus (the 'Bobbing for Apples Tutu').

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

My profession is as an interior designer, so I am fortunate to be able to live out my other medium of choice. Our society spends most of our time in a built environment, and it is a real joy to design a positive place for people to spend their days.

TWILIGHT TUTU - Size Small

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

Life is full of whimsy. Nothing profound, but all the same.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

As I mentioned before, the craft community is an incredibly welcoming group of talented people. I would recommend getting involved in the craft community, whether participating in Etsy forums or a local group of artisans, they are great sources of information and support.

THANKS, Mia, for taking the time to share your thoughts and enchanting tutus with all of us.  To learn more about Mia and her creations, be sure to visit the links below.

PICCOLINA DESIGNS WEBPAGE

Artist's Review of - 20th WINTER ART FESTIVAL in MADISON, WI

Information Booth at the 20th Annual Winter Art Festival in Madison, WI

This past weekend I was an exhibitor in my favorite art show......the 20TH ANNUAL WINTER ART FESTIVAL in Madison, WI.  This is one of the best fine art shows in the area, and is sponsored and produced by the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople (WAAC).  WAAC is made up of a very dedicated group of Wisconsin artists who not only organize and run the show, but also exhibit their art in the show.  It is through the hard work and dedication of this special group of artists that many other Wisconsin artists are provided with this high class venue in which to exhibit and sell their work!  If you'd like to learn more about the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople organization click on the link below:

WAAC

The show is held in Madison's beautiful Monona Terrace Convention Center on Lake Monona.

Monona Terrace Convention Center on Lake Monona

Most artists set their booths up the Friday evening before the show, which makes it really nice.  It takes the pressure out of having to get up in the wee hours of the morning, having to drive to the location and then rush to set up the morning of the show.

Below is a photo of a portion of my booth after my sister and I set it up on Friday.  My sister is my display artist as she enjoys arranging the booth and figuring out where everything will look the best.  What would I do without her!!  I just help with setting up the gridwall.

My sister and best friend.  We have such fun at these shows!

Part of my display of my newest creations....Fairy Face Pins/Knit Necklace Sets

These new designs were a BIG hit, and by the end of the weekend I only had several left!

The 20th Winter Art Festival had 134 exhibitors this year, with a wide range of high quality art ranging from, Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Graphics, Jewelry, Mixed 2-D, Mixed 3-D, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood.

The attendance was good.  In fact, Sunday, which is usually a slower day at two days shows, seemed to be more steady than on Saturday!  I was very happy with my sales, and from the few artists I got to talk to about sales, they seemed satisfied also. 

During the show, when I had a moment, I took some photos of the different artists and their work to give you all an idea of the wonderful art that one can find at this show.  I wish I would have been able to get a few more photos as the work is so varied.  Below are several photos, and the artist's information if it was available. (All of the photos and information is being used with the artist's permission)

Lorraine Ortner-Blake - Graphic Design and Calligraphy

Lorraine was our booth neighbor again this year. A delightful person and wonderful artist!  She is also very active in the WAAC with the newletter and graphic design.

Lorraine uses water media - including watercolor, gouache and hand-ground inks along with found objects, handmade paper, and gold leaf.  Her work couples quotations from the wise with expressive letter forms and colorful nature-based illustrations.

To learn more about Lorraine and to see her lovely art, and inspirational cards visit her web site by clicking on the link below:

LORRAINE

REVIVE

VIVIAN SMITH - Madison, WI

Gorgeous handpainted silk garments!!

Vivian doesn't have a web page, but if you'd like to contact her about her garments, here is her email address:  revivedesigns@lycos.com

GRAND RIVER POTTERY

Susan & Eric Anderson

from Markesan, WI

Email: grpottery@hotmail.com

Beautiful, Beautiful pottery!!  The nature shapes are exquisite!

EAST SIDE BAGS

Portable Works of Art

by Artist, Jane M. Miller of Madison, WI

To learn more about Jane and her colorful "portable works of art", click on her blog link below:

EAST SIDE BAGS

HOPFINGER STUDIO

by Jenni Hopfinger

Hand-painted Truly Functional Glassware

for the every day celebrations of life, love, family and friendship

To learn more about Jenni and her glass art, visit her web page by clicking on the link below:

HOPFINGER STUDIO

RUSSELWORKS

Kim and Rob Russell

Spring Green, WI

Kim Russell

Below are several photos as shown on RUSSELWORKS web page.  To see and learn a lot more about these talented woodworking artists, be sure to pay a visit to the RUSSELWORKS web page by clicking on the link below.  There you will be able to see a lot more of the FANTASTIC creations, and even see Kim at work on a project.

RUSSELWORKS

Bird "Orni"ments

Sandhill Crane Sculpture

CRYSALIS

Pamela Bronk, Leather Artisan

Pamela's Artist Statement below:

"Using images derived from nature and classic Japanese design allows me to explore different themes and surface techniques on my handbags. Over the years I have incorporated many techniques, from beadwork to airbrushing to hand painting to stamping and embossing. I have some classic shapes I keep returning to, but my surface treatment of these classics continues to subtly evolve and change as I explore. I am constantly finding fresh inspiration in nature, art, and travel. I have been involved in the midwest crafts circuit for decades and am consistently impressed by the fresh ideas I see around me. I draw from all these forms of inspiration and return to my craft with a strengthened resolve to try new techniques.

I create my unique bags and accessories in my studio in the Wisconsin countryside. When creating my handiwork I strive to construct bags that are durable and functional, as well as creative and beautiful."

You can see more of Pamela's wonderful work by visiting her web page...just click on the BRONK ART link below:

BRONK ART


M. A. KATKE

Gourd Artisan

Friendship, WI

M.A. has been a working artist since the mid-sixties, including drawing, ceramics, textiles and scrimshaw on ivory.  Her major work was metal smithing and jewelry.  Her interests have now drifted to gourds (grown by friends).  The designs get started with light pencil sketches on the surface. Next is the permanent drawing with a wood-burner.  Some of M.A. finished gourds are for interior decorating, while others are functional such as birdhouses and ornaments. 

What beautiful, detailed work!

If you would like to get in touch with this artist, her email address is:

m.a.katke@hotmail.com

The above artists are just a very few of the many fabulous artists who exhibit in the Winter Art Festival each year.  If you live in the area and have never attended this show, be sure to mark your calendars for next year's show which is being held on November 13 & 14 - 2010.  WAAC's summer show, ART FAIR OFF THE SQUARE will be held July 10 & 11 - 2010.

I'd like to thank all of the people who make this show possible. Also, a special "thank you" to the artists who let me take photos of their work for this article.

I for one am already looking forward to next's year show!!

THE WINNER of "A LIttle Something from Japan" GIVEAWAY is.......

Antique Necklace

JODIE from CANADA!!

CONGRATULATIONS, JODIE!!

Dave of FOLDING CRANES on Etsy had me host his giveaway for "A Little Something From Japan".  Winner got to choose from 5 delightful items from Dave's shop, one of which was the beautiful antique necklace pictured above.  Jodie chose the necklace as her prize, and will be receiving it directly from Dave.

Jodie's entry was randomly selected out of the 97 entries received for this giveaway.

A big "thank you" to all of you who entered this giveaway, and for your lovely comments.

There are two giveaways currently running on DZFANTASY.  To enter either giveaway all you have to do is click on the giveaway photo in the right hand column of this blog.

More giveaways are always being added so do stop back for a visit.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP -BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY

All the blues necklace

by Alison of BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY

A lot of blue semi precious stones – howlite, lapis malachite, amazonite and turquoise make up this statement necklace. The howlite irregular chunks are the best shade of turquoise blue, sitting alongside true turquoise beads with their lovely matrix. The amazonite beads reflect sea greens and blues, and the lapis malachite beads are the deepest cobalt blue with flecks of bottle green. All are strung on a sky blue beading cord which is knotted between each bead for a classic spaced out look.


WELCOME, Alison and her Etsy shop, BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY.  Pay a visit to BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY and you will find a wonderful selection of Alison's designs of necklaces, earrings and bracelets.  Alison uses semi-pecious stones, silver and silver tones in her designs.

First, take a moment to learn a bit more about Alison by reading her delightful interview below. It always makes it a little more interesting when you know something about the artist.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?


My grandmother must be where my love of making things comes from. She created most of her own clothes and knitted and crocheted in every spare minute. She liked to use beads and sequins, and on Christmas Day she would always appear in a new creation heavily embellished and looking like a queen. I can’t remember much distinctive jewellery, but times were different then and the selection was mostly diamonds and gold gate bracelets. She would have loved today’s choice of modern and eclectic designs. She could shop all day, so the Internet and Etsy would have been heaven for her.


My paternal grandmother was a real stylish lady by all accounts. I never met her, but pictures of her show how fashion conscious she was. As a child, I spent many a happy hour dressing up in her beautiful 1920s flapper-style wedding dress. It was heavy with beads and seed pearls, and short enough for a little girl to model without tripping over it! She was a bit of a freethinker too, causing a scandal by marrying the gardener when her husband died at an early age, and hosting garden parties to show him off! Their delightfully planned garden survives to this day – a haven of ferns, roses and fuchsias.

Cleopatra earrings

Imperial turquoise” (or dyed chocolate jasper) combined with turquoise beads, deep orange-red carnelian beads and sterling silver. A beautiful mixture of blues, browns and reds, these beads each have character and the signature of nature upon them. This is a combination truly fit for an empress, and reminds me of ancient Egyptian jewellery in the British Museum. Tiny floral sterling silver spacers add to the tailored look of these graduated earrings.

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

I’d always made my own clothes, but never really thought it was possible to make your own jewellery without doing real silversmithing. So I just used to tinker with things I’d bought from shops and always be saying ‘One day I’ll go on a course and learn how to make my own.’ Then online shopping takes off, and I suddenly realize you can buy your own tools and supplies, and since then, well, there’s been no stopping me!

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

A while ago I would have said just the whole process of making, but since I’ve been selling, it’s now the feedback from customers and, for custom orders I’ve had, seeing people wearing and enjoying the jewellery. In terms of techniques, at the moment I’m really enjoying stringing and knotting and using semi-precious stones to make statement necklaces and bracelets to fit in with the current trend for all things big, colourful and bold.

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

Had to think hard about this one, but I think I like the idea of my jewellery being like grapes – sweet, colourful and beautiful to eat as they are, with the potential to be converted into something exciting and intoxicating!

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

I love travel and photographing places, so that would have to be my alternative.

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

That women can use jewellery to boost their confidence, to help them achieve what they want, to be individual, and for the sheer pleasure of wearing something beautiful.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

"Keep smiling and don’t worry" – that was the sampler my grandma had up in her house. It’s the best advice I’ve ever had and it applies to all situations!

Alison, thanks so much for sharing your wonderful designs and for giving all of us a little "peek" into your thoughts and ideas.

To learn more about Alison and BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY, be sure to visit her links below.
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New "SOUTHWEST SPIRIT" Fairy!

"SOUTHWEST SPIRIT" FAIRYShe wi

by DZFANTASY

I just finished this tiny 6.25" "Southwest Spirit" fairy, which was my last creation to finish before this coming weekend when I will be exhibiting in my last art show of the season. 

She will be coming to the show with me, unless of course she finds a new home before this Saturday.

I used one of my favorite fabrics for her body and wings....Laurel Burch's "Mystical Horses" design.  I'm afraid this is the last of her fabric I have in this design.  Since Laurel passed away, I believe it was last September, it seems to be getting harder and harder to find her wonderful, whimsical designs.

SOLD AT ART SHOW ON 11/14/09

 

WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY - Exquisite Portuguese Bar of Soap by A PORTUGUESE LOVE store!

Here on DZFANTASY, I am happy to be hosting A PORTUGUESE LOVE store's delightful "WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY" for any one of three exquisite Portuguese bar soaps. Saboaria e Perfumaria Confiança dates from 1894 and is settled in Portugal. This company is known for its search for best quality products and specializes in the production of soaps and perfumery. You might know this brand as it has been seen in Oprah Winfrey's Christmas Bathing Basket.

A PORTUGUESE LOVE is a store where you can find products for children or for the child in you. Belinha Fernandes designs Portuguese inspired motifs as she’s very proud of her culture. That’s why she’s willing to share with you some of the best product brands Portugal has to offer. You can visit her store at:   www.zazzle.com/aportugueselove

Below you will see photos of the 3 different bars of soap, from which the WINNER will be able to choose one. Visit Belinha's A PORTUGUESE LOVE blog to learn more about each bar of soap and its ingredients.

MARIPOSA - $24.00 USD

O Melhor - $11.00 - USD

O Meu Sabonete $8.00 USD       

Read below to see how to enter this great giveaway:


START DATE: November 10. 2009


END DATE: December 10, 2009 - 12:00 Midnight CDT


OPEN: Worldwide


VALUE:  Each- Mariposa $24 USD;O Melhor $11 USD;O Meu Sabonete $8 USD


PRIZE: Imported bar soap from Portugal -Natural vegetable based soap bar with wonderful scent -Handmade -In beautiful package or wrapped in silver paper as presented in A Portuguese love blog.

STEPS TO ENTER:


1. Visit A PORTUGUESE LOVE's blog by clicking on the text link: A PORTUGUESE LOVE BLOG, then come back and leave a comment as to which bar of soap you would choose if you are the lucky winner- Mariposa, O Melhor or O Meu Sabonete.


To qualify you must also do one of these three things: become a fan of A Portuguese Love FB Fan page; Follow A Portuguese love on Twitter; or subscribe to her blog.  CLICK on the links below to receive a valid entry into this giveaway:  

"A PORTUGUESE LOVE" FB FAN PAGE

FOLLOW "A PORTUGUESE LOVE" ON TWITTER

SUBSCRIBE TO "A PORTUGUESE LOVE" BLOG

2. Be sure to leave your email address or a link to your email address, as the WINNER will be contacted by email ONLY!


3. At the close of the giveaway, I will randomly select a name from all the entries received. WINNER will receive an email requesting their complete shipping information, and a date by which it must be received.


4. If the WINNER doesn't reply within the given timeframe, another entry will be randomly selected.


5. I will inform Belinha of A PORTUGUESE LOVE as to the WINNER"S name and address, and she will ship the bar soap directly to the WINNER.  Belinha will verify that the WINNER'S entry is a valid entry.  If not, another name will be randomly selected from the remaining entries.
If anyone has any questions, please contact Donna at: dzfairies@msn.com

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY....GOOD LUCK TO ALL!