HARLEY IN HIS SANTA SUIT!
Wishing all my blog readers/followers a
VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS
&
A HAPPY, HEALTHY, FUN 2011!!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
The WINNER of the FIBER/SWAROVSKI crystals earrings giveaway is..........
BRANDLYN CAROL
from
CLIFTON, TENNESSEE!
Congratulations, Brandlyn
Brandlyn's entry of 12/6/10 was randomly selected as the winning entry out of the 20 entries received for this giveaway, which ended December 17, 2010.
A big "thank you" to those of you who took the time to enter the giveaway.
NOTE: I am having a 10% off sale in my Etsy shop through December 31, 2010. To receive this discount on any purchase/s all you need to do is enter the coupon code DZFANTASY10 into the coupon code area when checking out. Great savings! Get a pair of original designed earrings with hand knit beads and Swarovski crystals for $18.90.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BROWN'S COUNTRY ORIGINALS
(CLICK on item's title above to learn moer about this charming Santa!)
WELCOME, Mike and his charming creations, which he sells through his Etsy shop, BROWN'S COUNTRY ORIGINALS. Mike designs and creates one-of-a-kind, whimsical paper mache collectibles, with old world style santas being his speciality! Be sure to pay a visit to BROWN'S COUNTRY ORIGINALS after reading Mike's interview below. You will surely find yourself smiling as you see all the fun characters!
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I started making furniture .... I soon realized it took a lot storage space. It was not eay to pack and unpack plus I needed a big truck to haul the furniture to shows. I decided I needed something that took up less space. For years I collected paper mache and chalkware Santa's, so I decided to try and make some myself. Read various articles on ceating paper mache and chalkware ... experimented with various receipes and finally came up with one that worked for me.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
For years I collected paper mache and chalkware Santa's, so I decided to try and make some myself.
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I enjoy working with the paper mache the most as it allows me to use my imagination.
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
The star fruit ... most fruits and vegetables are round or oblong but the star fruit is unique it is star shaped. My work is like the star fruit because it is very unique.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Wood because I love making furniture.
(CLICK on the item's title above to learn more about this whimsical Santa!)
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?Handmade work is unique and one of kind .... it is not mass produced.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Try to think out of the box and never get discouraged?
THANKS, Mike, for sharing your wonderful, imaginative creations with all of us. When looking at them, they take you to a fun, whimsical place!
To see more of Mike's designs visit the links below. You just might find a delightful creature you can't live without!
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about this fun "snowman"!)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - DIANE'S CLOSET
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
WELCOME, Claire and her vintage shop on Etsy, which she calls Diane's Closet (her mom's name). If you love to wear vintage clothing, you really must pay a visit to Diane's Closet as it has a wide variety of items to choose from.....skirts, tops, dresses, jackets, coats and lots more.
Let's take a moment and read Claire's interview below to get a peek into how/why she decided to start selling vintage clothing.
What motivated you to get into selling “vintage” items!
I have had a love affair with vintage clothing for a long time. My mother saved a number of items of her clothing from the 1970s, and my sisters and I would often wear them. We would also go thrift store shopping quite often and I loved bringing home the crazy and unique items we would find. This summer I got married and wore my mother's wedding dress, altered to fit my specifications. Shortly after, I quit my job and returned to school full time to work on a Masters degree. I had been searching for part time jobs with no luck when I saw a vintage suit in a shop window that reminded me so much of my mother's vintage. I decided to open a shop selling vintage clothing in lieu of a part time job.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about this exquisite dress!)
Is there any category of vintage items that intrigues you the most?
Clothing of course! I especially love skirts and bags. Vintage shoe bags from luggage sets make excellent purses! I had one when I was young but I have yet not happened across some to sell in my shop.
What aspect of finding and selling vintage items do you find the most enjoyable?
The fun of "discovering" unique and interesting items. You never know what you are going to happen across. It's exciting to find a item you know is old but looks like it was made yesterday. You can tell it's a quality piece.
(CLICK on the item's title above to learn more about this fun handbag!)
What vintage item would you love to find, that you haven’t already seen or sold?
A beautiful, pristine formal dress is always on my wish list.
What advice do you have for others in the selling or collecting of vintage items.
If you are searching a thrift store, always check for stains, rips, holes, etc. before you buy. They can totally ruin what you thought was a good deal. Know what you are looking for when shopping an exclusively vintage shop. If you see things that you don't think are genuine vintage, go elsewhere! There's nothing worse than paying for something you thought was pristine 1960s vintage only to find out you could have gotten it at TJ Maxx for $10. A reputable seller should be up front about where they obtained the item and the evidence they have for it's vintage status.
What is the most interesting or exciting piece of vintage that you have found to date?
The blue silk beaded 1980s era dress I currently have listed is in pristine condition because it was never worn! Those types of dresses are typically missing patches of beads because of their delicate nature. This one even still has the original tags attesting to the fact that it was not a cheap purchase when first bought!
THANKS, Claire for taking the time to share your thoughts/ideas, and of course, your line of vintage clothing! I had fun looking at the times in your shop and I'm sure others will also!
Click on any of the photos below to go directly to that item in Claire's shop, or click on the shop name to go to the shop.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - REBECCA ANN CREATIONS
by
REBECCA ANN CREATIONS
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
WELCOME, Rebecca and her Etsy shop, REBECCA ANN CREATIONS, as a featured artist here on my DZFANTASY blog. Pay a visit to REBECCA ANN CREATIONS, and you will find a wide range of items to choose from....bath, hair accessories, jewelry, head attire, scarves, cowels and a whole lot more!!
Let's learn a bit more about this multi-talented artist by reading her interview below.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I learned to crochet with a friend of mine in 2007. I loved it and was making things for friends and family. Someone asked me if I had an Etsy account, so I looked into it! Now I've learned to make many things in addition to my crochet! I just love creating!
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
This one is hard. I still don't really know what medium I'm in. I like wearing all kinds of accessories so I started making them! I'm always making different kinds of accessories . Whenever I see someone wearing something I like, I go home and make it!
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I enjoy the feeling once I'm done with something. I guess my favorite aspect is finishing a project!
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I would say a peach. Sometimes it's sweet, sometimes a little tangy, but most of the time it's calming.... that is how I feel about my creations!
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Wow...only one? lol. I love creating things, I would like to learn to sew and make children's clothes. I always look at other people's shops who make little girls dresses and I wish I could make them!
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
My message is that we are all beautiful in our own way! I create many different styles because I know we all have different tastes, and even though we are different we are all beautiful!
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
GO FOR IT! If you enjoy making things than do it! Otherwise you'll regret it later.
Rebecca, thanks for a lovely interview and for sharing your creative ideas with everyone! To see more of Rebecca's designs and to learn more about her, visit the links below.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
Friday, December 3, 2010
Fiber/Swarovski Crystal Fantasy Earrings Giveway
Original Designed handknit ribbon bead with Swarovski crystals earrings
by DZFANTASY
I am having a giveaway for the above pair of earrings. Add a bit of sparkle and magic to any outfit with this pair of original designed handknit fiber/crystal earrings. I individually handknit each bead using a beautiful satin finish ribbon yarn. The handknit beads are then accented with Swarovski crystals, and silver plated findings. VERY LIGHT WEIGHT AND WILL BRING A LOT OF COMPLIMENTS.
TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY, READ BELOW:
START DATE: December 3, 2010
END DATE: December 17, 2010 - 12:00 Midnight CST
PRICE: 1 pair of original designed fiber/crystal earrings by DZFANTASY
VALUE: $21.00
ELIGIBLITY: Worldwide
HOW TO ENTER:
1. Just leave a comment in this post, along with an email address or a link to an email address, as this will be the ONLY means of contacting the winner.
2. At the close of the giveaway on 12/17/10, a WINNER will be randomly selected from all the comments received up until the closing time of 12:00 midnight on 12/17/10.
3. The WINNER will be contacted via EMAIL, and will have 3 days in which to send me their shipping information.
4. If the WINNER does not reply within the given timeframe, I will have to randomly select another winner from the remaining entries.
That's all there is to it! Just be sure to leave a means of contacting you in your comment!
DESCRIPTION OF EARRINGS:
SIZE: 2" drop from top of ear wire to bottom of head pin: 1.5" from top Swarovski crystal to bottom of headpin
I love the colors in this pair of earrings. The bottom Swarovski crystal is a fuschia 8mm bicone, topped with my original handknit ribbon bead. The ribbon bead is capped with an antique silver bead cap with a scroll heart design. Two 4mm Swarovski crystals finish off the earrings.
THANKS FOR VISITING DZFANTASY, and good luck to all! If you have ANY questions, please feel free to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com
Thursday, December 2, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - VALERIA BEADS
(CLICK on item's title to learn more about this lovely piece!)
WELCOME, Valeria and her Etsy shop, VALERIA BEADS. Valeria has some very beautiful, intricate designs in her shop, so be sure to pay it a visit after reading her interview below. Great pricing on these intricate designs!
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I was born in USSR in Kazakhstan. we did not have books about crafts, no computer to see how big is the world. My mom was always busy with something, crochet or knitting or macrame, sewing, so we learned that from her, but it was not enough. We learned how to do needle work and some construction work from my papa. I grew up and learned more hobbies. my main interest now is beading.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
When I was 8, I had a string of dark blue beads and wanted to have treasure box. Me and my sister made a box from post cards! We would put lots of junk inside and on the top that blue string of little beads imagining that the box is filled with treasures. For years we were keeping those beads stringing them on 1 or 2 threads. we did not know what else to do with it. It is why I like weaving beads now, as it was something I did not learn when I was a kid.
CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
Complicated things! I could string nice beads, add a clasp to it or put a charm on chain and call it jewelry, but it is boring. About everybody else can do it, but not every jewelry person can weave little tiny beads together and get an art, get them to bloom, turning them into flowers, feathers, almost anything!
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I like to do blooms of both as with seed beads it is possible. but I am probably fruit as they are higher from the ground usually!
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Cross stitch. I started needle work when I was in kindergarten. we would stitch a little napkin every birthday for my grandma. I never saw her use them. She is no longer with us, but once when I was making order in her house, I opened one drawer and found all ofr our little presents to her. I cried. I did not know she dearly kept them all as she was a very strict woman who was not spoiling us. I do cross stitch sometimes, but not get patterns from the store or web. I like to do something only mine. so I am making portraits by designing patterns. It takes about 6 months for one, but I love to see how colorful threads are becoming something beautiful.
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
I want people to be noticeable by wearing something different.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
I am not doing it for profit, I am doing it for joy!
THANKS, Valeria, for sharing your truly lovely designs with everyone, and for such a delightful, informative interview. It is fun to know more about you and what motivates you.
Click on any of the photos below to go directly to that item in Valeria's shop or click on her shop's name below the photos. You can also learn more about Valeria and her designs by visiting her blog.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
HARLEY in the first snow!
My buddy, Harley, in his new coat...enjoying the first snow!
While I wasn't exactly thrilled to see the first snow of the season, Harley sure was!! He was trying to catch it in his mouth and went wild running around in the little bit we had so far!
Now if he could do some shoveling that would be great! Guess I will see the joy in snow through his antics in it.
He does have a "thing" about sitting on top of things!
I will be having a new giveaway out here soon, and also new "featured" Etsy shops, so do stop back for a visit!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BRASS CAT STUDIOS
by
BRASS CAT STUDIOS
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
WELCOME, Xeque and her Etsy shop BRASS CAT STUDIOS. I love the unique colors and textures of the above necklace! When you pay a visit to BRASS CAT STUDIOS you will find other delightful creations created by Xeque....both vintage and modern jewelry, along with some supplies, etc.
Let's find out how Xeque (pronounced just like X), got started in her creative endeavors by reading her interview below.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
One day I started playing with my sister's beads. I was having so much fun just making patterns and color schemes with plastic beads and stretchy string, I decided I had to start getting some real supplies.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I've tried so many different crafts. Oftentimes I would enjoy it for a very short while then it would just fizzle out. Jewelry was something I had tried on numerous occasions in my childhood, but it wasn't till later on when I experimented with my sister's beads I realized just how much I loved it and that it was the one thing I never tired of. So I wanted to try my hand at selling to help fund the craft.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
It's a really good feeling to share with others what you've created with your own hands. My family and friends always enjoyed receiving my jewelry as gifts, but when I started being encouraged by total strangers who saw my jewelry, it gave me the confidence to give Etsy a try. The unity in people who create handmade goods makes the experience so much more enjoyable.
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Passion fruit, because I'm passionate about what I do.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Hmm...does writing count? If so, because I've always loved writing, and do have the hope to publish someday. If not, art, because in the past I really enjoyed drawing before I started making jewelry.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
I don't feel I have a message really. I just have fun, and hope people have fun wearing what I make.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
I think anyone is capable as long as they love what they do. Your craft shouldn't be a chore, it should be something you enjoy doing. People will care about your work as much as you care about it.
Xeque, is has been a real pleasure to have you and your unique creations here on DZFANTASY as a featured Etsy artist. Thanks for taking the time to share not only or creations, but also for a great interview.
To see more of Xeque's creations, be sure to BRASS CAT STUDIOS by clicking on either the thumbnail photos or shop name below.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
GREAT SAVINGS on DZFANTASY with ETSY'S New "COUPON CODE" Feature!
Tiny Fiber Fairy on Handcarved Mushroom!
by
DZFANTASY
Original Price: $70.00 - 10% off - $63.00
Now you can easily save 10% on any item in my DZFANTASY Etsy shop, since Etsy recently implemented their new feature of a COUPON CODE!
Etsy sellers have been asking for a feature like this for quite some time and it has now come to pass. In celebration of this new feature, I have created my first "Coupon Code", whereby buyers will receive 10% off any item in my shop. All you have to do to receive the 10% savings is enter this code in the "coupon code box" at time of checkout: DZFANTASY10
I will be keeping this code active until December 31, 2010. Be sure to take advantage of this great idea....just in time for holiday purchasing.
To visit DZFANTASY, just click on any of the photos below, or click on the shop's title below the photos!
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - CAT IN A CUP
(CLICK on the item's title above to learn more!)
WELCOME, Olga and her new Etsy shop, CAT IN A CUP! If you are looking for fun, colorful clip art to enhance your own projects, be sure to pay a visit to CAT IN A CUP. Olga says she will be continually adding new items, so you might just want to "favorite" her shop.
Take a moment to read Olga's interview below where she tells us in her own words how CAT IN A CUP came into being.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I´ve always liked creating things. As a child I would draw pictures, small comics, make clothes for my dolls, etc. So, it was a natural thing for me to study Fine Arts and continue creating things. I think I especially like art and crafts because it´s a way to express myself, to create not only a craft but also the whole character and a story.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
There are so many mediums I want to work with! I haven´t decided yet. But for now my favorite is the computer, but I also like to make toys, and I need materials and sewing for that. And I enjoy painting with acrylics on small canvas. As you can see it´s impossible to choose only one medium.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
A good thing and a bad thing about creating art is the total freedom of it. I don´t have timetables, and I love it, any moment of inspiration is good for creating. But, it can be a bad thing as well, as I find it hard to finnish the project I´m working on, there´s always somthing to add or to improve. I really need some schedule.
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
A tomato, it´s very versatile, for some people it´s a fruit and for others it´s a vegetable, it´s usually red but can be yellow and green as well. Just as my art, I love so many styles and ways of creating.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
If I had to choose only one, it would be the traditional medium. There´s something about it that digital art cannot offer me. It would be painting because for me it´s much easier to paint than to sew, and so I can create more.
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
I want to create something that people can use in their everyday life, something that would add fun, creativity and inspiration to the usual routine.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
The advice that I was given by many artists and crafters is to create what you really like. I couldn´t agree more. When you are working on something you really like, you get the best results and enjoy the process more. Of course it´s not always possible, but one tries.
THANKS, Olga, for a delightful interview and for sharing your creative, fun digital art with everyone.
To see more of what CAT IN A CUP has to offer be sure to visit the links below.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - HOGAN'S HANDIWORK
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more!)
I'm happy to welcome Denise and Erica, and their Etsy shop, HOGAN'S HANDIWORK, as a featured shop here on my DZFANTASY blog. Denise and Erica are sisters who work together on this venture. Pay a visit to HOGAN'S HANDIWORK and you will find beautiful scarves and other accessories! They also have a "weekly special"! Now is the time to start thinking about buying original, handmade Christmas gifts.
Take a moment to learn a little bit more how HOGAN'S HANDIWORK came into being by reading the interview below.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
My sister and I started making our scarves after a friend encouraged us to put our talents to use on Etsy. We can't thank her enough!
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
We both love soft materials, and I (Denise) particularly love texture. The softness of the yarn we chose, and the texture of the stitches both fit the bill.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
Watching them grow (and being able to promote our shop by wearing the models).
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I suppose I would choose a strawberry, because it is bright and fresh and photogenic.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
We want our customers to look at our products and know that they were carefully and lovingly crafted for their 100% satisfaction.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Keep at it. Love what you do.
Thanks, Denise and Erica, for sharing your work with all of us! To see more of what HOGAN'S HANDIWORK is all about be sure to visit the links below.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - JEWELRY KALEIDOSCOPE
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
I think it is always interesting to know a bit more about the person behind each Etsy shop, so take a moment to read Laura's interview below. Then..........hop on over to her shop by clicking on the links below. Laura has a lot of delightful items to choose from, both in her hand embroidery and vintage items.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I grew up in a college town that had a program like big sister, I have 5 brothers so I was in this program and that is who taught me to do hand embroidery, I think I was around 10 years old.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I love all the colors of the floss to choose from.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I love to see the piece come alive when the black lines get turned to color. And I love flowers so, this is another way to make them bloom.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Strawberry, they start out as a flower, then a small hard berry, and grow into a pretty red berry.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
Watercolors, I love all the colors,
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
I like to think I have brightened someone's day with one of my embroidered item, maybe put a smile on their face.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Have fun doing your crafts and don't be afraid to try some new ones.
THANKS, Laura for taking the time to share your thoughts and creations with all of us.
You can see more of Laura's items by visiting her links below.
Monday, November 8, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - DaRosa's Children's Art by Rose
PERSONALIZATION and MORE COLORS available!
CLICK on item's title to learn more!
WELCOME, Rose, and her delightful, whimsical creations, which she sells in her Etsy shop, DaRosa's Children's Art. Fun, colorful drawings to brighten any child's room and to stimulate their imagination.
Take a moment to read Rose's interview below, where she tells us in her own words how she got started on this fun venture!
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
For my 28th birthday I got an easel, canvases and paint from my mother. I started to create and a colleague was looking for something original for the nursery of his son. The zebra, giraffe and monkey were born! I tweaked the design a bit since then, but I stuck to the bright colors and black outlines.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I started with oil paint and spent a lot of money on buying new paints. As a beginner, I wasted too much with mixing to get the right color. Oil also takes longer to dry and is more expensive. For the work I do, acrylic is the best!
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I always paint the eyes in last and that gives my animals the funny/cute look. I also like sketching new creatures and make custom pieces for my customers.
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)
MORE OPTIONS possible
Uhm...does jelly BEANS count? Lots of bright colors!
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I would love to get familiar with the art of screen printing to make baby clothing with my art work.
painting on stretched canvas
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more!)
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
Visual stimulation! Babies can’t see very well in the beginning. My art stimulates the development of eyesight. My son of 1.5 years still loves my work and can name the animals and make their sounds...
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Listen to other people.... If you like what you create, that doesn’t mean that others do. I just started with more detail in my pictures and they sell. My boyfriend hinted that..
THANKS, Rose for a wonderful interview and for sharing your colorful, whimsical creations with everyone.
To learn more about Rose and her delightful creations, be sure to visit the links below. It is never to early to develop your child's imagination!
Friday, November 5, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - STEFANIE'S SAMMELSURIUM
(click on item's title to learn more about it)
with my own lampwork beads, sari ribbon, fiber and other fabrics
Please welcome, Stefanie and her Etsy shop, STEFANIE'S SAMMELSURIUM. I just love the texture and colors of this jewelry artist's creations! If you are looking for unique, creative jewelry that will bring you compliments, be sure to visit Stefanie's shop.
First, take a moment to learn a bit more about Stefanie and her creations by reading her interview below.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
I was seeking a way to relax and express myself after my daily job. I collected jewelry since I was a teenager so it was a obvious choice what to turn to.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
As I said – jewelry was and is an important part of my life. Whenever I stumble upon special kinds of beads or great fiber & fabric I have to get it and make jewelry out of it.
(click on item's title above to learn more about it)
That I can actually make things with my hands. My regular job is all about business and marketing I have no connection to the finished product. Sometimes that can be frustrating .
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I think a watermelon – it combines my favorite colors and it is far from being delicate - so is my jewelry. I love bold, chunky and vibrant pieces.
(Click on item's title above to learn more about it)
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I guess I would try my luck with my second love – fibers! But I’m a terrible knitter and crocheter.
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
That life is all about variety and that there is always a bright side. I try to express that with my color choices and the different materials I work with.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Enjoy what you do. Try to make things you like and not what the markets ask for. In the long run it will pay off and the whole creating process is so much more rewarding. And join a community. You meet great people like Donna here.
Thanks, Stefanie, for a great interview and for sharing your inspired, creative, jewelry with everyone! Be sure to pay a visit to STEFANIE'S SAMMELSURIUM shop on Etsy, and visit her other links below.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - DOVE DESIGNS
by
DOVE DESIGNS
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
WELCOME, Jodi and her Etsy shop, DOVE DESIGNS. When you pay a visit to DOVE DESIGNS, you will find a delightful array of handmade hairbows, clippies, korker bows (such as the one above) headbands and more.
First take a moment to read Jodi's interview below where she gives us a bit of an insight into how she got started creating her designs.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
After having my daughter, I quickly saw how a cute hairbow pulled an entire outfit together. Hair accessories can really make or break an outfit for a little girl. I started designing bows for her and soon I was getting requests from strangers.
Twisted Boutique Bow in Black and Pink
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?In my area, bows are more popular than other hair accessories, such as flowers or headbands. My daughter has extremely curly hair and I wanted something that would stay in her hair.
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I find seeing the finished product to be the most enjoyable part, especially seeing it in someone's hair! I love to see how my bows match different outfits for different girls.
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable to describe your art/craft, what would you choose and why?
I think I'd choose an apple to represent my bows. Apples come in several colors and flavors, just like the different bows I make. I think of my creations as fresh and tart, just like an apple!
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be and why?
Another medium I'd choose would be sewing. I love to see custom outfits for children, especially smocking. The creative possibilities with colors and textures are endless. Unfortunately, I'm a terrible seamstress!
(CLICK on item's title above to learn more)
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
The message I'd like to convey is that every little girl can look cute. I try to make bows to represent a wide variety of tastes. Not every girl is a girly-girl in pink. Not every girl likes bling. I want to provide hair accessories that appeal to different personalities and tastes.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
I'm still new to Etsy, so I'm still learning what works there! But anyone interested in designing bows should do lots of research and try out different materials to see what appeals to them. And practice, practice, practice!
THANKS, Jodi, for sharing your thoughts and creations with all of us. May your DOVE DESIGNS prove successful for you!
To see more of Jodi's creations, be sure to visit the links below.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
FEATURED ETSY SHOP - CARIAD CLAY
by CARIAD CLAY
(Click on item's title above to learn more about it)
Let's welcome Chloe, and her Etsy shop, CARIAD CLAY as a featured Etsy artist here on DZFANTASY. It has been a while since I've had time to bring you featured Etsy shops, and I am happy to have CARIAD CLAY as one of the first ones.
Be sure to pay a visit to Chloe's shop after reading her interview below, where she tells us in her own words how she got started in her art.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
After having my little girl, I started pottery classes to try to banish the baby brain.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I've always loved getting messy and really enjoyed pottery at school
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I love how relaixng it is, just sitting with some fresh clay and working on new ideas. Sometimes they turn out well and other times they are a complete mess, but as long as I get my 'clay time' I'm happy!
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you
choose, and why?
A banana! It's soft to start with, but hard when dried and it's bright and sunny!
(Click on item's above title to learn more about it)
It would always be clay!
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
That I'm a potter from Wales! I love my Welsh roots and living in Wales.
Cariad is Welsh for beloved and if more people know that then I'm happy.
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Make what you enjoy making, then you'll enjoy selling it and talking about it too
Chloe, thanks for taking the time to share your delightful creations with all of us and for sharing your thoughts and ideas.
Be sure to visit CARIAD CLAY by clicking on the links below.
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