"ROMEO" IS LOOKING FOR LOTS OF LOVE AND A GOOD HOME!

Meet "ROMEO"!

What a handsome fellow!

My brother's girlfriend, Colleen, is involved with the Cairn Terrier Rescue Organization, which rescues puppies from "puppy mills", and then looks for "good", "loving" homes for them.

Colleen is currently being foster mom to two little Cairn terriers and Romeo is one of them.  I truly admire all the dedicated people who give of their love, patience and time to help find good homes for these delightful little creatures.

Below you will see several more photos of ROMEO, and Colleen's description of him.  If you have a big heart and a good home, you can contact Colleen (contact info listed at bottom of this post) for more information about adopting ROMEO.  (Only serious inquiries, please)

"Romeo Romeo....Where for art thou Romeo!"

Juliette could not resist the looks and charms of her Romeo and you'll feel the same about this 2-year old boy who is every bit as adorable as his namesake!


Romeo embodies all the classic characteristics of his breed: he's intelligent, independent, curious, tenacious, strong and loving.


Romeo is very energetic and loves to go for long walks and explore the safety of his fenced back yard. An avid hunter...he will scour the terrain for birds and squirrels and give chase whenever he can.


Despite an air of independence, Romeo is also a lover and will flip on his back in a submissive posture, hoping to get a belly rub. He loves to kiss and cuddle and get lots of attention. This is not a dog to be "parked in a corner" or a dog who would be happy in a condo. This is a dog that requires a devoted, terrier-savvy owner who can offer plenty of structure, love and exercise.

 

Romeo is currently living with a Cairn mix, a Staffordshire Terrier and his co-foster-brother. Romeo may be little, but he has ascended to "alpha dog" position. He plays very well, is considerate with the other dogs and interacts with many dogs both in the neighborhood and at the dog park and has shown no serious signs or aggression or dominance. He would do well in a home with another dog but would be equally at home as an "only dog". He interacts well with the respectful 11-year-old in the household and shows excitement when his friends come to visit.

Romeo is a dog that loves to learn and is eager to accept new challenges. He would likely excel at canine performance sports such as agility, rally or fly ball. He is fast on his feet and wants to please.

Romeo is very obedient when being groomed. He allows his foster mom to brush him. He loves going for car rides although he has a tendency to bark at passersby and motorcycles. He loves to play with toys and engage the other dogs in a game of tug-o-war or keep away.

 

Romeo has nice leash etiquette, but because he loves the great outdoors, he needs a home with a fenced yard. He has a lot of energy and requires a family who will make him an active participant in family activities...a family who can provide lots of leashed walks...trips to the dog park....playdates.....and can involve him in obedience or agility training. He will not be considered by a family where there is not someone home for the majority of the day.

If you know and love terriers and have the time and dedication needed for this wonderful little man, then Romeo could be the dog for you!


Romeo is neutered and up-to-date on all vaccinations, and receives a monthly heartworm and flea tick preventative

 

 

Hey, Romeo, I hope you find a loving "forever" home!

 

 

If you or anyone you know is looking for a lovable little companion who is sure to bring you a lot of love, devotion and joy, please contact Colleen for more information on ROMEO!

 

All he asks is that you give him a "forever home", and lots of love and attention!

 

Colleen Swartz

Digital Magic BigShots

414-380-9005
EMAIL: Colleen@digitalmagicbigshots.com
1410 E. Belleview Place

Milwaukee, WI 53211

WHO KNOWS WHAT KIND OF HAWK THIS IS??

My brother's girlfriend, Colleen who is a professional photographer, took these fantastic shots of this hawk where they live. Does anyone know what kind it is??

Great shots, Colleen!!

HOW TO ADD A "PAYPAL" CART BUTTON TO YOUR BLOG OR WEBPAGE

Thanks to a fellow artist and Etsian, TWENTY POUND TABBY, I just discovered how to add either a PAYPAL "BUY IT NOW" button or "ADD TO CART" button on my DZFANTASY blog...along with a VIEW CART button!! 

Now you can sell a piece or pieces of your art right from your blog.  How great is that!  I have just added this feature to an item on my blog at DZFANTASY, if you would like to see what I'm talking about.  The Fairy Face pin is displayed in the upper left column of my blog, with a BUY NOW button, and the VIEW CART button will always be in the upper right column.

Having the VIEW CART button gives people the opportunity to add an item/sto their cart, scroll around your blog and then they can go back and see in an instant what they purchased by clicking on the VIEW CART button.

If you are only having 1 item for sale on your blog you can use the BUY NOW button.  If you intend to have several items for sale, either on your blog or web page, you would use the ADD TO CART button.  Using the ADD TO CART button, would then allow people to go back and see what item/s they have in their cart and purchase them all at one time.

Here is the link to the You Tube Video which explains how to do this in very simple steps.  Click on the link below to see the video:

ADDING A PAYPAL BUTTON TO BLOG

Now that I discoverd this great option, I plan on having at least 1 or 2 items for sale on my blog.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - THE FROG BAG

Glamorous Felt Sea Anemone Soft Sculpture

by

Corinna

Come join me for a visit with Corinna of THE FROG BAG on Etsy.  When you pay a visit to THE FROG BAG you will find a wide variety of items created by Corinna....frog related items, beaded objects, earrings, other jewelry, and a lot more!

Corinna states in her shop announcement that "20% of the price of anything bought here will be donated to The Tapir Preservation Fund, a charity which supports the conservation of tapirs and their rainforest habitat."  Through this endeavor, Corinna has raised over $400.00.  Good for you, Corinna!!

Asian Tapir Cat Toy

Also known as the Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus), this is the largest of the four tapir species. It is also the only one living in Asia, and the only one so strikingly marked as an adult.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?


I've always been crafty. Some of my earliest memories involve my mother sewing for me, making me stuffed animals, getting ready for her own craft shows, and doing crafts with me (crayon batik, anyone? How about bathtub tie-dye?) so I guess that it was natural that I would carry on that tradition.

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

I've played around with several, but I just really love shiny colorful tiny things. So felt and beads are the obvious choices! Especially since I'm a lousy painter.

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

Designing the piece. I get very excited as I sketch it out and lay out the beads or felt, especially as the color theme takes hold. That said, relaxing into a long stretch of peyote stitch can be very rewarding.

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

Hmm, tough question! I think I choose the kiwi. It is cute and small, rather unassuming at first, but filled with jewel-toned tangy goodness inside.

Biological Cylinder Necklace

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

I'm finally learning to sew with a machine, and I'm getting slightly obsessed with unusual vintage fabrics. I'd love to get good enough with it to actually create clothing.

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

Well, I do a lot of work for the Tapir Preservation Fund (which contributes to rain forest conservation too), and a lot of my work is up-cycled or animal themed, so I guess I'd like to convey a sense of my wonder and amazement at the natural world.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Just keep at it. And don't be afraid to make friends and contacts among other crafters. They can really help you out when you have those inevitable down times when you feel like you aren't making any progress.

Thanks, Corinna, for taking the time to share your creativity and thoughts with all of us.  To learn more about Corinna and her work, be sure to visit the links below.

BLOG

TWITTER
FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - Emariecreations

Deck The Halls Gingerbread Earrings

by Samantha of EMARIECREATIONS

Samantha of Emariecreations on Etsy has many delightful creations made of polymer clay such as the fun little Gingerbread earrings shown above.  When you pay a visit to Samantha's shop you will find jewelry, push pins, magnets, hair accessories and more, all at very reasonable prices.

Take a moment to read Samantha's interview below to learn how she got started in creating her polymer clay creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started working with polymer clay around the age of 11 or 12 as a hobby, mostly creating miniature food for my dollhouse. It wasn't until earlier this year that I became more seriouse about making and selling my clay creations. I enjoyed making the miniatures, but never thought I would be selling them!

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

I think I was drawn to polymer clay because of how easy it was to work with. I also think the brilliant colors it comes in was a big factor, too!

Pastel Snow Lady Ornament

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

I think I would have to say creating custom orders is the most enjoyable aspect for me. I get to work with great people and create something special just for them.  Also seeing the finished product of some new idea I have created is great, too!

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable to describe your "creativity", what would that be and why?

A very interesting question! I think I would say a raspberry. They come in so many diffrent flavors, colors, and varieties, are small, yet are so full of flavor!

Fresh Picked Apple Earrings on SALE - $5.00

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

I think I would choose origami or paper quilling. For both you have to use your hands, and I really enjoy working with my hands. I also love making tiny and intricate designs with my medium, and both origami and quilling include that.

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


 I want to convey a feeling of cheerfulness and fun. I enjoy what I do and want others to get the same joy out of it that I do.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Whatever your art or craft is, do it to the best of your ability! Don't do things half-heartedly- that will show up in your work. If you do your craft with joy and excitment, others will see that through your art or craft.

Thanks, Samantha, for taking the time to share you whimsical creations and thoughts with all of us.

To see more of Samantha's creations, click on the links below.

HAND MADE NEWS - The Largest Craft Blog in the World by Artisans for Artisans

Cindi of Clays It Again on Etsy, just let me know that I was featured on HAND MADE NEWS - The Largest Craft Blog in the World by Artisans for Artisans. THANKS, CINDI!

If you'd click on the link below, you can see the article and it would be great if you would click on the "green thumb" at the bottom of my feature.  If an article gets at least 23 votes, it will go to the "top articles" list.  Now that would be fun!  Thanks!

HAND MADE NEWS ARTICLE ON  FEATURED ARTISAN - DZFANTASY

HAND MADE NEWS has a lot of interesting topics that it covers, such as; Craft Trends, Craft Techniques, Crafts for Kids, Inspiration .... just to name a few.  Below I've provided direct links to some of their departments:

BUSINESS TIPS

CRAFT TRENDS

CRAFT FOR KIDS

CRAFT TECHNIQUES

MARKETING

GUILDS & TEAMS

This great, informative blog has a total of 12 different departments that you can visit, to get information, inspiration, ideas and more.  Clicking on any of the above links will get you to that particular department, and you will also see the other departments listed in the right column of the blog.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PazzaPazza

Fantastic and beautiful Bag with Bedouin embroidery

by Yael of PAZZA PAZZA

UPDATE: March 8, 2010, I recently heard from Yael and she told me she had to close her Etsy shop PAZZA PAZZA due to personal reasons.  While you won't get to see her gorgeous creations, other than the photos I have here in this interview, you can still read about this delightful artist.  Yael has started a blog, which is very interesting, so be sure to pay her a visit at:

PAZZA PAZZA

I am truly happy to have Yael, who lives in Israel, and her Etsy shop, PazzaPazza, here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist.  Now, when you read Yael's interview below you will see that she says she thinks of herself as more of a crafter, but when I saw her beautifully designed bags, I definitely see the artist in her! 

 

First let's hear, in Yael's own words, how she got started in her creativity!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I love that you not only put the term “art” here but you also add “craft,” because I think I am much more a craft person than an artist, though occasionally an artistic spark may strike me now and again. If I had to describe what I do, I would say that I create beautiful, decorative and useful things with a strong focus on good workmanship. My creations are usually very colorful and I like to add beads, tassels, ribbons, buttons and lace as well wherever the piece seems to communicate the need.


Growing up in Germany, I was never very good in school when it came to crocheting potholders and knitting socks. That was sheer horror for me! I also do not remember myself as a child drawing or creating things because creativity was never encouraged by my parents, teachers or the culture in general. But I always loved beautiful things and was drawn to nature, especially to trees and meadows and wild flowers. I always tried to make my and my sister's room pretty by putting flowers on the table or draping a scarf over the lamp. What I mean to say is I probably had an eye for beauty from a young age and always appreciated and loved it. I have a very early memory of a visit to an aunt during which she sent me into her beautiful garden and gave me some tiny vessels and vases made from unglazed clay to play with. It was such a lovely moment…I can still feel the flowers over my head and still imagine myself playing in the sunshine among the flowers and weeds with those lovely things. That day, I was completely happy!


It wasn’t until I got married (very young) and had children that I started creating things. I sewed clothes for them, crocheted ponchos and scarves, knitted sweaters and so on.


That was also the time I made my first patchwork throw - it was a present for my sister. One side had green and blue patches, the other side had patches in red shades. To my great sorrow, my sister passed away already, but this throw lives on in one of her daughters’ homes. It is about forty years old by now. It was not quilted because at that time I had no idea about quilting and patchwork. Then one day I found a Burda magazine which had patchwork wall hangings in it, with explanations as to how to do it. From that time on I was hooked!


I got divorced and not long after that married again and moved with my husband to Israel, where I have been living now for almost 30 years. This is my true home and homeland. In 1989 my husband was assigned to work in the United States, so we lived for four years in California and one year in Texas. Of course, once there I indulged in everything related to patchwork and quilting! It was a great time and I learned a lot. I did not take many workshops, but there was this abundance of books coming out. Patchwork and quilting was just newly being considered as an art form and everything was very exciting! All those quilt fabric stores! All those quilt exhibitions! The lovely American Quilters Museum in San Jose! Returning to Israel I found that a Quilters and Patchwork Association had just been established and this art and craft form gained momentum here too. It was terrific!


After making a lot of wall hangings and bed quilts, I eventually settled down to making mostly bags which I sold in two galleries in Israel. Some months ago I opened PazzaPazza on Etsy and a short while after that I opened FabricCrafts there as well, where I sell smaller items which make for very suitable gifts.

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

I actually never decided, rather all the planets aligned for me. I guess it all started with that patchwork throw I made for my sister.

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

That would be just designing something new, throwing all my fabrics on the table, getting more and more excited, making a BIG mess in my work room, cutting and trying to figure out how it would look best, having another and another idea and sewing the first item of a new line. Only after all that do I get organized, clean up, put everything back in its place and start working a little less like a mad hatter.

Backpack with appliqued pomegranates

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

Oh, that I can answer in a wink without thinking a second - it would surely and absolutely be the pomegranate. I LOVE every aspect of the pomegranate. The trees flowering in spring, those lovely stars developing into a gorgeous fruit…it is beautiful, sweet and marvelous! It is really a royal fruit, fit for a king and also for the poor, symbol of fertility, bounty and eternity, mentioned throughout the centuries from Greek mythology to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. There is no bigger pleasure than to open a ripe pomegranate enjoying the sight of it and then eating the juicy kernels one after the other…yummy!!! Many, many times I have used the pomegranate motif in my work, appliqued on bags, backpacks, clutches, potholders, place mats, fabric boxes, you name it.

Messenger Bag with appliqued zebras

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

Lately, I’ve started getting a little bit into the medium of papier mache and I like that very much! The possibilities with this medium are endless and you can create very nice and pretty pieces even if you are not an artist. I find it also a very relaxing form of creative expression, because one can never finish a piece in a day or two or even a week. It’s a slow going process because it has to dry out many times at different points so I have to work on it in stages. Since it can take weeks before I finish, it gives me a chance to practice my patience!

What advice do you have for other artist/crafters?

DO WHAT YOU LOVE and do it as well and perfectly as you can!

Yael, what a delightful interview!  You described my feelings about pomegrantes!!  I LOVE them....such an exquisite fruit!
 
Thanks again, for taking the time to share your thoughts and your artistic creativity with everyone.
 

Flower Fairy Face Pin/Handknit Necklace Set...Colorful, Wearable Art by DZFANTASY

Closeup view of fairy pin and handknit necklace

Treat yourself or someone else to a bit of magical whimsey with my latest "flower fairy face pin/handknit necklace" set.  She will definitely bring you a lot of compliments....and who doesn't like those!

The Fairy Face Pin

Her sweet little face is 100% silk fabric, which I individually handdrew, needlesculpted and handpainted!  Each one has their own delightful personality!

Just one of the ways you can wear the "fairy pin" on the necklace!

Another way.....and

another way!

This is what makes these "sets" so much fun.  You can wear the pin alone, alongside the necklace or pin it just about anywhere you like, to achieve your own individual look!

To find out more about her, visit my DZFANTASY shop.  She is newly listed, and you have only 1 more day to receive a 20% discount on any creation in my shop.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LOVE STRUCK BABY BOUTIQUE

Handmade Nursing Cover in Royalty

Beautiful handmade nursing cover made with Legacy Studio's Imperial Garden collection. This fabric is not justified in the pics with its royal red palette of dark reds, silver, gold, gray and black. Large and small blossom flowers make this nursing cover a definite stand out!

WELCOME, Latisha and her Etsy shop, LOVE STRUCK BABY BOUTIQUE.  When you pay a visit to Latisha's shop you will see that she has come up with a wonderful, stylish way in which to be able to breast feed your baby whereever you are.  The fabrics and colors are beautiful..! 

Read Latisha's interview below to see how her creations came into being.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?


I was pregnant with our third child when I decided that I would leave myself with no other option but to breastfeed her. I stocked up on nursing covers I purchased online and in store and purchased not a single bottle. After she was born and we finally got through the rough period of figuring each other out while nursing (you mama's know what I mean!) I decided it was time to venture out into public places...but not without my nursing covers! They did the job, but some were way too small and would show my sides if I wasn't a nursing top and others would come loose at the d-ring adjustment when she would tug! I was coping but not happy. I decided to learn how to make my own and ended up with the perfect cover that stayed put, allowed me to see her while feeding and even covered me entirely. I was so relieved to not feel self conscience when feeding her around friends or family or even strangers when we were out.

Reusable Nursing Pads in Pink Enchanged Forest

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

Fabric is my only medium, but the choices are seemingly endless. I pick 100% cotton easy care material in patterns that I adore and feel like other mothers would love to wear. A nursing cover practically becomes a piece of your own clothing so having one that matches your personality really makes a difference in your mood and sets your own style!

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

I love ironing them right before they are packaged ,and I actually love the packing itself. I know it's going to someone's home and will help a modest mother bond with her baby.

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 Star Fruit because when I'm asked what I create with the fabric I buy, I always get a strange look! Not many people realize what they are but love the idea when it's explained to them!

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

Art in general. I love to put any medium to a canvas. Pencil is my favorite, but ink and painting feed my soul just as well!

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

I'd like every expecting mother who has even an ounce of hope in the idea of breastfeeding her child to know that she can do it. It is hard! Very hard! Women really need all the support they can get from those around them. I feel like those women who are very modest about their bodies should really consider investing in a nursing cover so they're not tempted to give baby a bottle erverytime they're at the park or a restaurant. It helps ease the nerves for sure and brings peace of mind to be covered and still be nourishing your child with the best possible milk there is!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Sometimes the things we stumble upon become our greatest passion. Have an open heart and open mind to everything that surrounds you and the possibility of finding what truly makes you happy will not be far behind. I never would have thought this is what I would be doing and with so much passion!..but I love it and wouldn't have it any other way.

Latisha, thanks so much for a wonderful interview and for coming up with such a stylish product for mom's who want to nurse their babies! 

To see the wide selection of nursing covers and other items that are being offered by LOVE STRUCK BABY BOUTIQUE, be sure to visit the link below! Click on the photo to go directly to that item in the shop, or click on the shop's link below the photos.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - HOT PINK CHICK

Changing Seasons Bracelet

by BONNIE of HOT PINK CHICK

Sure to get lots of compliments, beautiful Czech glass leaves, yellow faceted Czech glass rondelles with Picasso finish and tiger eye jasper rounds are individually wire wrapped onto an etched, raw brass oval link chain. The focal point of this creation is a large, lovely, slightly patinaed brass leaf.

Let's weclome, Bonnie and her Etsy shop, HOT PINK CHICK.  The exquisite bracelet above is only one of many beautiful pieces of original designed jewelry you will find when you pay a visit to HOT PINK CHICK!  Bonnie has wonderful designs of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and more to choose from.

I think it is always interesting to learn a bit about the artist behind the wonderful creations we can find on Etsy, so before you pay a visit to HOT PINK CHICK, let's hear from Bonnie.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've always been artistic, my father is a painter and I grew up in a household that was very creatively motivated.


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

I came across jewelry making a few years ago and fell in love. The limitless possibilities always keep it fresh and exciting for me.

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


I love seeing people wear and enjoy the things I've created. That's the most rewarding part of what I do. It's such a rush for me to sit with a bunch of individual components and put them together to make something people want.

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

Wow! What an interesting question! I'd have to say an onion (even though I'm allergic) because it has many layers and can be used in many different ways to compliment many dishes.

BLUE FLASH NECKLACE

by BONNIE

If you've never experienced labradorite gemstones, now is your chance! These fascinating stones flash brilliant blue in the light. They're amazing!  This sterling silver box link chain is anchored by a sterling silver circle design pendant from which five smooth round labradorite gemstones hang.

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

That's an easy one - interior decorating. That's my other passion. I love putting color on walls and coordinating a room with various textures, fabrics and pieces.

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


I would definitely want to convey that I love what I do and all my jewelry has some of that love in it. I want to give women affordable, pretty, stylish pieces that they can wear every day.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Love what you do and never give up. These go hand in hand for me. There will always be slow times, there will always be times when you've stepped into a new arena and need to establish yourself and there will always be times when you doubt yourself and your talent. They don't call us 'starving artists' for nothing! But if you love what you do and you stay true to yourself and your art, it's easier to keep pushing forward towards success.

Bonnie, lovely, lovely creations, and great interview!  Thanks for sharing your thoughts and creativity with all of us.
 
To learn more about Bonnie and her jewelry, be sure to visit her links below.
 

HOT PINK CHICK BLOG

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

TWITTER

Not 1, but 3 lucky WINNERS in the "WINNER'S CHOICE" of an Exquisite Bar of Portuguese Soap!

There was a surprise ending to the giveaway I was hosting for Belinha of PORTUGUESE LOVE.  Belinha had me host her WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY for an Exquisite Bar of Portuguese soap.  The winner was to have their pick of one bar of soap out of a choice of 3. 

Belinha very generously decided to give away the other two bars.  Each winner was randomly selected from the 61 entries received for this giveaway, which ended 12/10/09.

The lucky winners are:

JENNA from Jackson, Ohio - Mariposa Soap

FRANNIE from Brooklyn, New York - 0 Meu sabonete Soap

TAMMY from HUDSON, OHIO - O MELHOR Soap

CONGRATULATIONS LADIES!

A big "thank you" to Belinha of PORTUGUESE LOVE who let me host her delightful giveaway, and for those of you who participated.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - THE 35TH OF MAY

Let them eat cake ring

"If they have no bread, then let them eat cake!"

This Cake ring is fit for a Queen! Vanilla scented polymer clay cake ring handcrafted with much detail.The ring is adjustable. Ring measures 3 x 2.5 cm

Now doesn't that little cake just look good enough to eat!

I'm delighted to have Moi from Stockholm, here on DZFANTASY with her fun, whimsical and very creative ideas!  Treat yourself to a visit of Moi's Etsy shop, THE 35TH OF MAY.  It makes you smile just to see her creations....and it is definitely something we can never do too much of. Her scrumptous looking polymer clay creations, make you want to pop them into your mouth!

First let's hear from Moi as she expresses her thoughts and shares a bit of herself.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I guess my mother. Thanks to her I have been doing crafts for as long as I can think. I remember how we made handcrafted Christmas gifts every year. I really miss that tradition. I’m actually going to do it with her again this year, and I’m really looking forward to it! I guess not too much changed since those times, instead I just craft all year around.

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

I started experimenting with polymer clay on April this year and I really seemed to have a knack for it, but I don’t really like to limit myself with just one medium; I like to experiment with anything coming my way.

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

I can’t pinpoint anything specific, but I can tell you this.....I did not do anything arts and crafts related for two years, and I did not realize how important it was for me, until I started doing it again. Now I feel so good, I don’t even know where to put all that creativity I have had subdued for all that time.

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

Cherry or Strawberry. I have no idea why. Maybe you can tell me?  (Moi, I think your work is very refreshing and makes one feel good, just like when eating a juicy cherry or strawberry!)

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

It would definitely be cooking! Many seem to forget that cooking is truly an art.

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

I want people to be able to put a little color and magic into their everyday, familiar, general, habitual, normal, quotidian, routine, run-of-the-mill, standard, traditional, typical, usual, humdrum lives.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Never stop learning. What advice do you have for me? (Keep on having fun with your creativity and do what you enjoy and that will reflect in your creations!)

Moi, it was a real pleasure to have you here on my blog as a "featured" Etsy shop, and such fun to see your whimsical creations!

To see more of Moi's work be sure to visit the links below.

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

DEVIANT ART

The WINNER of DZFANTASY'S "Fairy Face Pin/Knit Necklace" giveaway is............!

EJ of New Providence, NJ

CONGRATULATIONS, EJ!

EJ's entry of 11/13/09 was randomly picked out of the 33 entries I received for this giveaway which ended December 9, 2009 - 12:00 Midnight CDT

The WINNER had the oppportunity to choose whatever "set" they wanted from those currently in my DZFANTASY shop on Etsy at the end of the giveaway.

EJ 's mother will now be receiving the above pictured fairy face pin/knit necklace set shown above as a Christmas gift!

THANKS AGAIN, to all of you who participated in the giveaway!  I currently have 8 of these "sets" available in my shop and will be adding more as time allows. 

I currently have a "20% sale" running in my Etsy shop where you can receive 20% off of any item/s in my shop through 12/15/09. .  Great savings.  These pin/necklace sets make wonderful gift ideas! I sell them for $30.00, but with the sale you can save $6.00 on each set.

DESIGNER FANTASY YARNS, SOME OF MY LATEST FINDS AND....WHERE TO BUY THEM

PLYMOUTH YARN'S

"FLIRT"

As a 3D-Fiber artist, I've been working with designer yarns for over 12+ years.  They make the most beautiful, colorful, whimsical hairstyles for my fiber sculpted mermaids, fairies, fairy face pins' and more!

These yarns from Italy, France, Germany, Turkey used to be found in any good, quality yarn shop, and even at shops like Michael's, Joann Fabrics, etc. 

I've always had a "huge" stash of the different yarns which I had bought over the years, but it wasn't until recently that I discovered that a lot of the stores/shops I've purchased from in the past no longer carried these delightful yarns.  Thus began my search to see if I could find some of my old time favorites, and also some new yarns. I was especially looking for some very unique, fun textured yarns for my new designs of "knit necklaces".

I've spent quite a few hours searching the internet for different yarns and thought I'd share them here with you.  If you are a fiber artist, fantasy doll artist, or knitter, you might just find a use for some of beautiful yarns!

Plymouth Yarn's "FLIRT" yarn is a French yarn and is 100% Nylon. It is a fun, wispy eyelash yarn, and it works well for not only beautiful fairy/mermaid hair, but also for my new "knit necklaces" shown in the photo above.  The suggested retail price is $9.99 for a 50g ball (1 3/4oz.) Prices vary greatly, so be sure to check around.

Approx. 93 yds.  To create the necklaces above I used a Size 8 needle, and straight knitting of 4 stitches.

I believe this FLIRT yarn is being discontinued, so when I found several colors of it at a good price, I snapped it up.  Lots of beautiful fairy hair!

The yarns shown below are several I found on the web using the search term "designer yarns".  I purchased these yarns from an on-line shop called GOT YARN. (Click on their name to visit their web page) I've ordered from them several times now and was very pleased with the service and the yarns.  They have a section of "sale" yarns, for some pretty good savings!

The two yarns above are Karabella Yarns, made in Italy.  The name is JEWELS!  The unique texture and color combinations are what caught my eye.

The strand on the right shows the texture of the yarn before I knit it into a necklace chain for my "butterfly knit necklace" creation.  This yarn has a metallic thread running through it which you can't really see in the photos.  This gives it a bit of sparkle.

The necklace chain is straight knitting on a Size 8 Needle and 4 stitches.

In the photo above, is another yarn I purchased from GOT YARN.  This fun textured, colorful yarn is an Italian yarn from ON-LINE called Linie 197 - ZARA.  This was on sale and there were 4 colors to choose from.  I used this yarn to create the "fairy face pin, knit necklace set" shown above. 

A lot of rich colors, and fun texture in this yarn!

The photo below shows the texture of the yarn before being knit

MALIBU by BERLINI

I just LOVED this yarn when I found it on the web at NuMei Yarns. (Click on the NuMei link to visit their website).  It is so fun and yet elegant looking.  It reminds me of a "field of flowers" when knit into one of my "knit necklaces".  While it is a bit expensive ($11.79 a ball + shipping), I felt it was worth the price.  I've used it for several knit necklaces and also for a fairy face pin.

Fairy Face Pin  using Malibu yarn

The strand on the "right" shows you the yarn before being knit into the necklace on the "left".  I used a Size 8 needle and 4 knit stitches for the necklace.

PLYMOUTH YARN'S - JUNGLE

Gorgeous wide ribbon yarn!

Now this yarn is truly beautiful!  All the vivid colors!  It is a extra wide ribbon yarn that is 100% Nylon and made in Italy.  50g ball = 61 yards. 

I happened to find this yarn on Ebay when using the search criteria "Italian Designer Yarns".  Much to my surprise, Ebay is a very good source for finding designer yarns, and especially some of the designer yarns that are no longer being made.  I've spent hours on Ebay searching for yarns that I could no longer find in the shops in my area.

This yarn is very silky in texture and is a bit hard to knit with as it twists and turns.  When making my knit necklaces I find I have to let it "unwind" on the needle several times before I can continue knitting.  I've heard that you should just knit it even though it is twisted, but I don't care to do that.  I want a really even look for my necklaces.

This is one of the necklaces I created with the "rainbow" colored ribbon yarn shown in the photo above.  I used a Size 8 needle and 5 knit stitches.

I've found it really pays to spend a bit of time researching the different yarns if you want to get the best prices.  The same type of yarns can vary greatly in prices whether it is from an "on-line" shop, or a shop on Ebay!  You need to watch that you aren't paying too high a price for shipping.  I've found some sellers on Ebay list the price of the yarn low, but than their shipping is ridiculous.  The same holds true from some "on-line" yarn shops.  I did, however, find that there are also some great yarn sellers on Ebay who have free shipping. 

The yarn shown below is a yarn that I've used in the past, but now that it is being discontinued , it is really hard to find.  I was so happy when I happened across it on Ebay.  This yarn makes beautiful fairy and mermaid hair!  So soft and wispy!

ON-LINE LINIE'S "PUNTA" yarn

The yarn has loops of color in it and a soft, wispy eyelash!

This is a "fairy face" pin I made using the "cinnamon" colored PUNTA yarn shown above.

SPELLBOUND by MODA DEA

Spellbound by Moda Dea is another yarn I found when searching on Ebay for ribbon yarns with which to create my knit necklaces.  Love the colors, sparkle and glitz of this yarn!  It is 92% Nylon and 8% Polyester. 93 yards in a ball.

The necklace is awaiting a butterfly to be made for it.

These are just a few of the yarns that I have found while searching the web for "designer yarns".  I found that quite a few of the really beautiful yarns are made in Italy.

While it was rather disappointing to learn that shops in my area are no longer carrying a lot of these yarns, I was happy to see that if one does a bit of search on the web, you can still find some unique, gorgeous yarns.

If you fiber artists, doll artists or knitters are looking for these "speciality" yarns, just put in "Italian yarns", "designer yarns", fancy yarns", "glitzy yarns" as search terms on your computer and I'm sure you will find what you are looking for.