<title>DZFANTASY

Thursday, December 2, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - VALERIA BEADS

Peyote 3D Beaded Oriental Asian Triangle Pendant Necklace

(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.

Ever blooming orchid flower necklace choker , seed beads and ribbons, peyote

CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it!)

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

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!

Turquoise beaded necklace, lacy choker

(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, November 24, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BRASS CAT STUDIOS

Nesting in Rainbows

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.

Twinkling Lights Tree Wreath Ornament

(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)

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

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.

Web of the Widow

(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)

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

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.

Friday, November 5, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - STEFANIE'S SAMMELSURIUM

BANGLE

(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.

Christmas Ring with sari and wire

(click on item's title above to learn more about it)

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

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.

Multi strand pearl bracelet purple green

(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.

FLICKR

Butterfly Pendant Chain Maille Necklace

Sunday, July 25, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BURNING MOON..Jewelry, Gifts & More

by Luna of BURNING MOON

(CLICK on item's title to learn more about it)

WELCOME, Luna and her Etsy shop BURNING MOON. At BURNING MOON, you will find a delightful selection of one-of-a-kind jewelry creations, such as the beautiful Butterfly Pendant above, along with other jewlery items and accessories.

Take a moment to read Luna's interview below to see what motivated her to get started in her artistic venture.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have been crafting since I was a child It makes me happy knowing that you can make someone just as happy giving them a unique hand made gift compared to a store bought gift that hundreds of others will be getting as well.

Summer Daisy Charm Bracelet

(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about it)

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

I work with pretty much everything. I love arts & crafts in general, but I mainly sell jewelry. It is the easiest and the most fun for me to make.

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

I love creating jewelry because I know that the person wearing it will love it as well as the people around the person wearing it. Plus, most of my products are one of a kind so that person will be the only one in the world with that exact piece.

Eclipsed by your Vampire Heart Dangle earrings

(CLICK on item's title above to learn more about them)

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

I would pick a banana because they smell good, they are bright and fun, plus they are yummy.

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

I would pick scrapbooking or card making because it is what I am second best at.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Always remember it takes a lot of time, patience and promotion to make it in the selling world. It may take a while, but don't give up hope!

Thanks for taking the time, Luna, to share your creativity and thoughts with everyone! It is always fun to learn a bit more about the artist behind the creations.

To see more of Luna's work be sure to click on her links below.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - LaCeramiste

Soldered Yarn Pendant - Mountain Pass

(CLICK on the title link above to learn more about this creation)

by Casey of LaCeramiste

WELCOME, Casey and her Etsy shop, LaCeramiste as a featured artist here on DZFANTASY. Casey designs and creates soldered yarn and quilt pendants like the pendant pictured above., and also many other styles of beaded jewelry.

Be sure to pay a visit to LaCeramiste to see all of the different colors and styles which Casey has to offer in her fiber pendants, and beaded jewelry. First, take a moment to learn a little bit more about Casey and her creations by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've been a crafter since I was in middle school - I used to stay up late nights on my bedroom floor making jewelry for myself and my friends. As a teenager I learned to crochet, knit, and quilt, and I started taking pottery classes in college. My mom was an avid antique collector and period crafter and always cross-stitched, quilted, stenciled, sewed, painted...I got the need-to-make gene from her and took it in my own direction.

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

Jewelry is something I've always been able to come back to, no matter how many other projects I try out. When I started on Etsy, I had just been back home to visit my dad and childhood home and had gone through a bunch of my old things, including some vintage jewelry stashes and beads/supplies. That got me back into making jewelry around the same time I moved and was job hunting for a couple of months. Etsy seemed like a great way to spend my down time and relieve stress. And I've stuck with it for almost a year so far!

Cordelia Earrings

Summery Wire-Wrapped Glass and Gunmetal

(CLICK on item's title to learn more about these delightful earrings)

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

I love that beads can surprise me - I might have the same set of beads for months and contemplate getting rid of them because I don't think I'll ever use them. Then all of a sudden one day I'll think of a way they can be used out of nowhere. I also love the idea that someone out there is wearing something I made, in a city I've never visited, and might get a compliment on it.

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

A pomegranate. It's complex, beautiful, and unique in a way that surprises you if you've never cut one open before.

Soldered Yarn Pendant - Robin's Nest

(CLICK on the above link to learn more about this colorful pendant)

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

Clay - right now I'm low on funds so I can't afford to be taking pottery classes, but I loved doing it when I was able to. I would have gotten into making more pendants and miniature pottery if I hadn't had to quit my class. You have to have patience and a vision when you start creating a piece of ceramic art and I think those were good things for me to practice.

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

A piece of jewelry that you love doesn't have to break the bank. I try to keep my prices low because my target market is people like me, who love wearing unique jewelry but can't afford to spend a ton on it - or would rather spend their money on more important things.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Make sure to take some time to make something for yourself once in a while - a pair of earrings just for you, something to put up on your wall, something really good for dessert. It's easier to remember why you do this when you keep a reminder of your own creativity around, instead of shipping it all off to somebody else.

Casey, thanks for taking the time to share your lovely creations and also for giving us a peek into "you" the artist!

To learn more about Casey and her work, be sure to visit the links below.

Friday, June 4, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - SUGARLILAC JEWELRY by MARISSA

Sky Dream Necklace, Aqua Blue Glass Teardrop Trio, Faceted Briolette in Brass

by Marissa of SUGAR LILAC

I'm happy to have Marissa and her Etsy shop, SUGAR LILAC, here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Marissa designs beautiful, "unusual bohemian & nostalgic altered vintage" style jewelry in the form of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more, so be sure to visit SUGAR LILAC!

First take a moment to learn a little bit more about Marissa and how she got started on her jewelry creating venture.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started making jewelry as a small hobby , but it didn’t take long for me to grow more and more interested in it. I always loved art and being creative! A few years later, I am happily making jewelry all the time.

African Turquoise Rhinestone Earrings, sea Green stone, Titanium French Hook Earwire

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

It’s difficult for me to decide what mediums to work with because I have so many ideas. Some of my favorites are brightly colored gemstones, brass, and silver. Lately, I’ve also been doing these stamped bracelets in aluminum, which I’ve found to be a very cool and more affordable alternative to silver. The bracelets are pretty popular and they are a great price. I do wish I could do more metalsmithing , if only I had my own torch.

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

My favorite aspect of creating jewelry is being able to share it with others.

Aqua Terra Mermaid Necklace , Long gold, Ocean Blue Impression Jasper

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

I guess I would choose a strawberry, because it is a sweet, wonderful treat! Also happens to be my favorite food.

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

Another medium I love working in is oil painting. I love to paint and don’t do it often enough.

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

If I could convey a message, it would be love! Jewelry is often given as a token of love, appreciation, friendship. I hope I can help deliver these messages and make someone very happy.

TidePool Bracelet , Trio of Aqua Terra Blue Impression Jasper

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

My advice to other artists would be to never give up on your art. Just keep creating, keep working, because that’s what keeps you going!

Marissa, thanks for sharing your beautiful creations and your thoughts with everyone. One can tell from your designs that you really enjoy what you do!

To see more of Marissa's work, be sure to visit her links below.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - FinE.R. JEWELRY

Sterling Silver Daisy Bracelet SRA

Emily of FinE.R. Jewelry

"This unique one-of-a-kind bracelet features 3 lampwork beads handmade by myself. The main bead is white with yellow center in the shape of a daisy. The 2 smaller ones are yellow. I used swarovski crystals in matching colors to compliment the lampwork beads and add a little bit of sparkle. All of the findings are sterling silver. This bracelet is about 7 1/4" to 7 1/2" long."

WELCOME, Emily and her Etsy shop, FinE.R. Jewelry, where she sells her handmade jewelry and lampwork beads. When you pay a visit to this delightful shop, you will find necklaces, bracelets and watches with unique lampwork bead bands, and more.

Take a moment to learn about Emily and her creativity by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

My sister-in-law makes lampwork beads and so one time when we went to visit her she showed me how, and I was hooked! It was hard to pry me away from the torch. We live 1,600 miles away so for about the next year or so I only had a couple of weeks to make beads when we went to visit. She decided to get a new kiln and oxygen concentrator and was going to give me her old ones. My hubby surprised me one day with a torch. Then there was no stopping me.

Watch- Brown w/ Blue and White Flowers Lampwork Beads SRA

This unique one-of-a-kind watch has 8 lampwork beads handmade by myself. It is 8" long so if you have a smaller wrist it will fit looser like a bracelet and if you have a bigger wrist it will fit tighter. It has a lobster claw style clasp. It has a working battery, I pulled out the stem to save battery life.

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

Soon after my hubby got me a torch and my sister-in-law gave me some of her equipment, I was getting quite a collection of beads, so I decided to start making jewelry.

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

Making lampwork beads is very relaxing to me. I can lose hours. I just love trying new things and seeing what happens, but I also really enjoy making them into jewelry, and the "oooo that's so pretty" I get when I wear something I have made!

Earrings- Ivory and Blue w/ Blue Swarovski Crystals SRA

These unique one of a kind earrings have lampwork beads handmade by myself. Each earring has a lampwork bead and a swarovski crystal. The lampwork beads are ivory with a blue swirl.

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

Hmmm... I guess a watermelon. Who doesn't love watermelon! With my jewelry and lampwork beads there is something for everyone. I use many different colors in my beads and jewelry. I can even make tie tacks and cuff links for the guys!

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

Pottery has always interested me. It is something I would love to try one day. I just haven't gotten a chance yet.

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

I'm not one who tries for the strange or wacky creations. I want my jewelry to be something that people can wear everyday and love!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Never give up in finding your niche!

Emily, it was delightful having you here on DZFANTASY as a featured Etsy artist, and see all your lovely creations. Thanks for sharing!

To see more of Emily's work, be sure to visit her Etsy shop by clicking on the thumbnails or link below.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - lilruby by Joan Williams

Antique style Desert Treasure bracelet

by Joan Williams

WELCOME, Joan and her Etsy shop, "lilruby". Joan's states that she loves to create designs that make you think of "times long ago and far away"! When you pay a visit to "lilruby" that is definitely the feeling you get when you look at all her lovely pieces. I could picture the bracelet above being worn by an Eygptian princess!

Before you visit Joan's shop, take a moment to learn a bit more about this talented jewelry artist by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have had the urge to create pretty much all my life. I've always loved horses and starting drawing them as a small child, which has continued to this day. When I was a teenager, I planned to become a fashion illustrator, and along with the horses, drew an awful lot of girls with long hair and bellbottoms! Although I dreamed of going to art school, I never got the chance and learned about new techniques by reading about them and just diving in.

Gypsy Hoops copper and czech glass earrings

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

When my kids were little I didn't have much time for anything beyond an occasional drawing but eventually dabbled in silk floral design, tole painting and also did some commissioned equine oil portraits (more horses!). I gradually started making earrings and bracelets for myself, and that's when I fell in love with jewelry design.

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

The most enjoyable aspect of creating for me is the design process - I really love to wander through my favorite bead stores. Something about being surrounded by all those beads lets ideas flow and I can usually design several things in my head.

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

Lately I've been thinking alot about taking up oil painting again. Now that our kids are grown and I actually have a room just for beads and art I think I could enjoy that.

Victorian style rose and brass charm necklace

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

I don't know that my art conveys a particular message other than the need within me to take inspiration and create something that has beauty, at least to me.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

My advice for others is that if you have that need to create, don't ignore it! Find a way to fulfill it even if you can only steal a few minutes late at night after the kids are asleep!

THANKS, for a great interview, Joan, and for sharing your delight jewelry designs with all of us. I had fun looking at the different pieces of jewelry and contemplating what "time and place" they reminded me of!

To see more of Joan's creations be sure to visit the links below.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

DZFANTASY FANS.....Save on purchase/s of my Fiber Fantasy Jewelry!

NEW STYLE

Beautiful Knit Necklace Chain with Swarovski Crystal Pendant

DZFANTASY "FIBER FANTASY JEWLERY" SALE

FOR

DZFANTASY FANS!

If you are a "fan" of DZFANTASY, or if you become one.....you can save $5.00 on each purchase of any necklace, earrings or face pin....MAY 11th - MAY 31st. The savings will be refunded via PayPal.

Add a bit of color, whimsey and magic to any outfit. These creations are light weight and very unique. You will be sure to receive a lot of compliments. Swarovski crystal accents! Great gift ideas!

You can purchase from either my DZFANTASY shop on Etsy or Zibbet, by clicking on the links below.

DZFANTASY ON ZIBBET

Saturday, May 8, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - KIRAMEKU

Berry Ring - Limited Edition

by Kirameku

It is my pleasure to have Maxime and her Etsy shop here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. I thought her shop name was very unique, so it was interesting to read in her Profile, how she chose the name....KIRAMEKU......"As for my shop’s name, it’s actually a Japanese word to describe the shine of the ocean and the diamonds. I thought it fit the shop so perfectly, because, I go crazy for everything that shines!"

Take a moment to read Maxime's interview below to learn a little bit about her, and then be sure to visit KIRAMEKU to see her lovely creations.

Sparkling glass crystal bracelet

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

For jewlery; I would say simply curiosity at first, when I was younger. I left that hobby aside and picked it up a few years later beacause I couldn`t find jewlery that suited my tastes. As for arts, it is my biggest passion, so I just kept studiying it and experimenting, they are just too many possibilities ! It is so fun !

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
The medium for art took a while. After trying out oils, watercolors, gouache and acrylics, I saw that I like the waterbased one better, so there you go. As for the jewlery, I would simply say anything that shines I love !

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

I think it is the experimenting part that I love the most, I`m so curious ! I just love to discover new techniques.

Turquoise Flower Paper Earrings - Limited edition

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

I would say berries. You simply have to take a peek at my Etsy mini and you will know exactly why.

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

Hum, I already touch a lot of medias so I would probably say painting on wood.

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

If my art could talk, it would say: look around, see the beauty within everything.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Hum, advice... I would probably say document as much as you can, you can never learn enough on your media. Knowing it inside and out is a must.

Thanks, Maxime, for sharing your thoughts and lovely creativity with all of us.

To see more of Maxime's work, be sure to visit her links below.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ELECTRIC PENGUIN

Beer Bead Cuff Bracelet - Upcycled Beer Labels / Leather / Wood

by Pam

ELECTRIC PENGUIN

I love featuring other Etsy artists as it is such fun finding and seeing all the unique, creative talents that abound on Etsy!

Let's welcome Pam, and her Etsy shop, ELECTRIC PENGUIN, where you will find, as Pam states in her shop's introduction, "fun, funky and unique jewelry", such as the Beer Bead Cuff Bracelet pictured above. Pam has a wide selection of unique, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more in her shop, so be sure to pay her a visit.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I was looking for a specific style of necklace and couldn't find it anywhere. Then inspriation hit and I realized that since I've always been a crafty person, I probably could make it. I did, and that was the catalyst.

Lilypond Necklace

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

It was the only one I had any talent for!

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

Taking the separate components and creating something totally new and unique out of them. Of course making a sale and getting wonderful feedback is pretty good too!

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

Interesting question!! I'd say it would be a papaya - not the same old fruit, but everyone likes it once they try it.

Jordanelle Earrings - Vintage Lucite / Copper

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 - photography! I'm always trying to get "arty" shots when we're on vacation. Some are pretty good, but I'd love to have the talent to do it as a real job.

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

Be unique!

Tigereye Coil Bracelet

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Make what you love, not what others think you should make. You'll enjoy it much more!

Pam, thanks for sharing your thoughts and unique, fun jewelry with everyone! You have some great, original designs.

Be sure to pay a visit to the ELECTRIC PENGUIN to see all the great pieces of jewelry that it has to offer.

Monday, April 26, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - GILDED OWL JEWELRY

Calamity Jane... Opal and Fine Silver Earrings

Original Designs by Chris Wrinn

It is a pleasure to have Chris and her exquisite, original designed jewelry here on DZFANTASY as a featured Etsy artist. Chris' Etsy shop is called GILDED OWL JEWELRY. When you pay a visit to GILDED OWL JEWELRY, you will find a wonderful selection of pendants/necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more.

Let's learn a bit more about Chris and her artistic creativity by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft

I am a commercial illustrator by profession, but needed a relaxing, yet creative, outlet. The focus involved with designing jewelry is both refreshing and spontaneous. It lets me wander where I want.

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

Metals, especially wire and precious metals, have always appealed to me. Although I didn't know what to do with them until I took a course, there was always 'something about them' in the back of my mind.

Punk Phun Turquoise and Silver Pendant

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

Spontaneity and not knowing how pieces will turn out. Sometimes you get a bolt of creativity and haven't a clue where it came from. It can take one by surprise. I also like to mold precious metal clays into unique patterns and designs that you can't get with traditional sheet metals. Wire wrapping is another aspect I enjoy. The wire can take on what seems a life of its own and lead you into places you wouldn't think of going. Every piece is unique.

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

Vegetable. Vegetables have much more texture than fruits.

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

Icing. I've done painting and metalwork, so the one thing left that interests me is taking the creative side of me and making Decorating Cakes into something rather unique. It's amazing what can be done with icing!

14K Gold Filled Classic Circlet Earrings

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

I want my designs to grab your attention at first glance and I want the wearer to receive compliments. I'd like the customer be proud of the piece.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Find your passion and keep doing it. It may not be the easier way or it may not be the one you are more successful at, but keep at it. As long as you are happy when you are in the process of creating, that's what you should be doing.

Thanks, Chris, for a great interview and taking the time to share your wonderful creations with all of us. Great style and workmanship! Your creations reflect that you love what you do!

Be sure to visit the links below to see more of Chris' work.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - AUTUMN RAIN CREATIONS BY APRIL

Photography Print 5x7 Summer Day

Late in the summer when all the plants and flowers are big and beautiful.

by April

of AUTUMN RAIN CREATIONS

WELCOME, April and her Etsy shop, AUTUMN RAIN CREATIONS. When you pay a visit to April's shop, you will find a lovely selection of - Photographic Art, Handcrafted and Upcycled Vintage Earrings. Craft Supplies. Flax Pillow Packs. Vintage Treasures.

Before you visit, AUTUMN RAIN CREATIONS, take a moment to read April's interview below to get a bit of an "insight" into what started April on her creative adventures.

What led you to start creating your art/craft

I don't think there was anything that led me to start doing this it's just there in me always has been. My grandmother, dad and my daughter are very artistic, so it has always been around me one way or the another. It may sound cliche, but as a child I was always creating something. I have always been intrigued and interested in all art. I love being around it.

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

I have always just worked with what I enjoyed and felt drawn to at that moment.

Purple Glass Copper Dangle Earrings

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

The solidarity aspect is most enjoyable to me. That's when I just put my whole self into my project and nothing else is on my mind but the creation itself.

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

When I am taking pictures, I really see so much of the beauty of nature (God's labor) so I guess I would have to say fruit.

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

Probably painting. I use to draw and paint when I was young and have always wanted to start back up again. My daughter is 17 and paints/draws so artisticly. It motivates me.

Purple Leaves Eye Pillow

Eye Pillow Pack filled with Flaxseed. Use cold or hot. Heat in microwave in intervals to achieve gentle moist warmth or store in refrigerator/freezer too cool or help unpuff eyes. Wonderful for a number of aches and pains. Measures 9x3 inches. Made of cotton fabric and flaxseed.

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

I think it's more of a personal inner strength than a message for me. I do it because it makes me feel good, it's calming, it's a creative outlet and sharing it helps me show how I feel about life at that time.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

I don't believe in what's best selling or following the trend. My advise would be draw your creativity from your heart and roll with it.

Thanks, April, for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity here on DZFANTASY.

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