FEATURED ETSY SHOP - JACBERKITSCH

A Crocheted Robot named Snowy

WECLOME, Gillian and her Etsy shop, JACBERKTISCH. Gillian is a New Zealand artist who has a wide variety of creative items to choose from when you visit her shop.  You will find crocheted Tea cosys, toilet roll dolls, crocheted scarves, jewelry and more!

First let's learn a little bit more about Gillian by reading her interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Last year I decided that I wanted to make quirky teapot cosies and got annoyed with trying to knit, I'd been crocheting for a while (always granny squares) and I found out that I could do different things with my crochet hook that wasn't a granny square plus I find it way easier than knitting! After teapot cosies I did loo roll dolls and after that there was no stopping me.

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

I've tried a lot of different crafts, what I love about working with yarns is that there are so many different types, from the plain coloured ones to the fancy ribbon ones, so I suppose it's the variety that I really like.

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

The suprise of it all! I don't use patterns, so when my yarn and my hook get together anything can happen!


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

It would be a Kumara (sweet potato) because they come in all different shapes, sizes, colours and they taste good cooked in lots of different ways. Versatile would be a good word.


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

Fabric. I have so many ideas to create amazing things on the sewing machine, animals, dolls, clothes, anything and everything. It's a shame my sewing machine dislikes me so much!

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

Fun and enjoyment. I want people to enjoy and have as much fun with my creations as I do making them. Whether it's looking at, playing with or wearing them.


What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don't be shy to show off your creations, it can take lots of guts and courage, you may have a knock or two, however the positives will totally surpass them!

Thanks, Gillian for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with all of us.

To learn more about Gillian, be sure to pay a visit to the links below.

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ARTFIRE

FALL FANTASY....Signs of FALL on Etsy! PART II

WELCOME TO "FALL FANTASY II"......This is a continuation of my FALL FANTASY featuring many delightful shops on Etsy and their fall items.  You can visit each shop by clicking on an item's photo or the link below the photos.  ENJOY!

Gold, Turquoise ,and Red Coral Queen Earrings

by YIFAT BAREKET JEWELRY

Impressive Queen Earrings. a unique Special Handmade Setting of Turquoise in a Solid 9k gold Soldered on silver, and beautiful Red Corals.

Copper Bird Gourd weaved top copper patina bird patina discs

by BEAD CASITA

This gourd was made by growing my own gourds and harvesting. A South of the Border color and look was desired. I painted this with a clay orange color then sponge painted some mustard color over that. It was then given a few coats of a clear varnish. Acrylic paints were used.

Handbag Purse Hand Knitted and Felted Clutch Fall Design Handbag

by INSPIRATIONS BY KAREN

This is the perfect little bag for the Fall season! I hand knitted and felted this bag, then I needle felted on my own design of what I perceive to be Fall with the Pumpkins, Corn Stalk, Crow or Raven, and leaves. This clutch bag measures about 12" x 9" and has been done in Merino Wool roving and well as Falkland handpainted roving~

Pumpkin Pie Soy Wax Candle

by

MAN IN THE MOON HERBS

Pumpkin, spice and everything nice for Autumn in my Pumpkin Pie Soy Candle! The scent is warm and slightly sweet with just a smidge of vanilla to bring out the richness of the pumpkin and cinnamon. The color is that golden orange-brown of a fine baked pumpkin pie. Just like the pies themselves, the color may vary slightly from batch to batch.

Fall Flower Gift Tags

by

JESS MADE THIS

Here is a set of 4 tags made with pretty patterned paper and embellished with flowers and sparkling rhinestones! The tags are just over 6cm (2 1/2 in) tall and have been attached to coordinating ribbon. If you want to use these for your scrapbooking or cardmaking, simply replace the ribbon with a brad (paper fastener) or eyelet.

Autumn Elf Hood Size Large Adult in Red/Orange Tan and Brown

by FAIRY TALE FIBERS

These shades of fall would be perfect Elf camo for frolicking in the autumn woods! Cozy meets practical in this functional design.  It acts as both a Hat and Scarf!

Autumn Leaves Memory Wire Bracelet

by EMPTY NEST EGG

The random colors of Autumn Leaves treat us to such a show every year.With a random pattern and a mix of beads no two are alike. Here is a 3 ring 2 ¼ inch memory wire bracelet.

metal leaf charms, Czech leaf shapes, and glass seed beads all lend themselves to the mix.

Buttercup Shoulder Bag - Raspberry Tangerine

by LBG STUDIO

This Buttercup Shoulder Bag is a new twist on the popular pattern and works perfectly as your everyday bag. . . it's large and roomy without being overwhelming. It features a magnetic snap to hold bag closed and an inner pocket. I created it with an awesome retro orange fabric, hot pink piping, and a hot pink lining. I think these colors will be perfect for fall! This bag is fully interfaced for structure and durability.

Long bold beaded autumn colored agate necklace

by GEOPHYS GEMS

This is a bold piece featuring large oval monaco agate beads with brass, rhyolite and translucent twisted ovals in a cinnamon colored agate. It can be worn long, for example over a sweater, or doubled up.

Halloween Trick or Treat Bag/Bucket- Ghosts and Pumpkins

by JORDAN

This Halloween bag will make a great addition to your child's Halloween Costume this year! The outside of the bag has ghosts and pumpkins with a cute pumpkin applique. The bag handle and inside are done in a coordinating black fabric. This bag can be used for more than just trick or treating. It would be great for a table centerpiece filled with candy or for passing out candy at the door the night of Halloween.

A pair of Throw pillow covers UK designer fabric cushion case shams 16 x 16

by VEEDUBZ

These cushions are made from quality Uk designer fabric.Gorgeous rich purple and green leaves. The cushions match perfectly and would make a great feature in any room

Wedding Cake Topper- Custom Sock Monkeys with extra flowers

by SPIRIT MAMA

This is a 6" tall sock monkey wedding cake topper. The flowers for this one are Gerbera daisy and calla lilies, and roses in autumn colors, orange yellow and brown. I can make you a custom topper with your choice of colors and flowers. The groom can have a bow tie or a long tie.

FALL FANTASY III segment will be here in a couple of days with more delightfull items for you to see. STOP BACK FOR A VISIT! This will be the last in my FALL FANTASY feature.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - jaC JEWELRY

Sea Branch Earrings - Pink/Pale Salmon Coral and Sterling Silver Earrings
by

Janna of jaC JEWELRY

(Click on photo to learn more about these earrings)

You can almost hear the waves lapping upon the sandy shore, and the cry of gulls as you look at the the exquisite earrings pictured above! Janna of jaC JEWELRY on Etsy has many more beautiful jewelry designs in her shop...... What's better yet, she now has a SALE going on through JUNE 7th, so be sure to visit jaC JEWELRY. You can learn more about the SALE by clicking on her shop link below the interview questions.

White Lily - Biwa and Rice Pearl and Silver Earrings (Strings)

(CLICK ON PHOTO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE EARRINGS)

Janna has a wide selection of earings, necklaces, and sets, bracelets and a lot more to choose from.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always enjoyed various forms of arts and crafts - drawing, oil painting, knitting, crocheting, and others. After visiting a bead store, I fell in love with the natural beauty of the stones and freshwater pearls, bought a few strands, and that's how it all began!

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

Combining the raw beauty of stones, pearls and other components with sterling silver or gold-plated accents allows me to express my style while creating little works of wearable art. I especially like the fact that handmade jewelry makes terrific and unique accents to our everyday outfits!

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

It's hard to choose just one - if I had to narrow it down, it would be playing around with various components and turning them into new and unexpected designs, interacting with my customers and packing orders! I know a lot of people wish they had someone else to pack up orders, but I just love it!

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

Great question! I would choose a pomegranate because it is striking in color and has a unique texture. Similarly, my jewelry is a combination of bright splashes of color and various 3-D shapes.

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

I would love to become a metalsmith. Making my own metal findings, rings and pendants would be incredible!

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

My tag line contains the message that I want to convey with my pieces: jaC Jewelry - Pieces that Speak to the Unique in You.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Stay true to who you are and follow your passion!

JANNA, thanks for being a featured artist here on DZFANTASY and sharing your thoughts and lovely, lovely jewelry designs with everyone!

Don't forget to visit jaC JEWELRY.....SALE runs through June 7th!!

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jaC JEWELRY WEBPAGE
Visit Janna's website where you can sign up for a monthly newsletter that includes specials, sales and new product information.

SPRING FLING PART III - Visit Spring on ETSY

Welcome to the last of my SPRING FLING features. Here you will see a group of delightful shops on Etsy who are all ready to welcome spring with their colorful, fun creations.

Cherry Blossom Notecards

SHOP: SCARLETT DESIGN

Photography, Stationery,Gifts

WildFlower

Antique Bronze Necklace with Butterfly Pendant and brightly coloured accents

SHOP: STELLAR LIGHT DESIGNS

Jewelry - Necklaces, earrings in a variety of styles

PRETTY IN PINK

SHOP: MIMI ROB

Doll Clothes, Girls Clothing, Aprons

BABY HEDGEHOG

SHOP: THERESA'S CERAMICS

Fun, Funky Whimsical Ceramics

Eco Chic Everyday Housewife Apron

SHOP: MOMOMADEIT

COOL APRONS...RETRO INSPIRED...SEXY, FEMININE FIT!!

JUST FOR FUN A fun glass bead bracelet and earring set for you

SHOP: BEAD VOYAGER

Travel Inspired Bead Designs...Earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets

Yellow with Cherries Dog Collar

SHOP: DESIGNS BY JINX

Fabric Dog collars

Spring Tropical Recyled Journal

SHOP: BURGANDY DISTRICT

Eco friendly journals and books

Bonsai and little kitten sculpture

SHOP: LADA WORKS

Interior design creations for every room in your home

FORGET ME NOT

SHOP: OHANA GLASS DESIGNS

Unique fused and beaded glass jewelry

ACEO OOAK Original Art Card Teapot Tea Cup Teatime

OSWOA Dragon Jinx Purple Flower Painting

SHOP: MAREZY DOATS77

ACEO'S

Princess Buttercup - 8x10 Metallic Pearlescent Fine Art Photographic Print

SHOP: IF I HAD WORDS

Photography by Nikki Trexel

Spring Fling earrings

handmade peridot briolette iolite apatite citrine tourmaline swarovski crystal sterling silver

SHOP: KALLIOPE JEWELRY

Handmade contemporary gemstone jewelry

Goldfinches and Thistle a digital print by Sarah Knight 8X10

SHOP: SARA K DESIGNS

Archival prints and artwork by Sarah Knight

Farmer's market theme fabric grocery shopping market tote bag

SHOP: KELLY'S SEWING BASKET

Unique handmade gift items from Kelly's Sewing Basket

SPRING CHARMER BRACELET

SHOP: JACQUELINE V. DESIGNS

Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry - Necklaces, bracelets, earrings

Benny the vegan Easter Bunny

SHOP: A-KNIT-THING

Adorable knit animals

Pink Stripes SPRING baby/toddler BIB

SHOP: BARNYARD BABY

Handmade bibs and burb cloths

Think Outside the Box

SHOOP: ADROIT JEWELERS

Pendants, earrings, anklets, necklaces and more

BLUEBIRD glass round pendant 1 inch circle.....BEAUTIFUL

SHOP: IM JEWELEE

Scrabble Tile Necklaces and Wholesale Jewelry Supplies

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ALL KINDS OF ART

SUNNY, THE GIRAFFE

by

GLENDA

ALL KINDS OF ART is the perfect name for Glenda's shop on Etsy! This delightful, talented artist has just that....all kinds of beautiful art....in her shop, ranging from fine art prints such as Sunny, the Giraffe shown above, as well as jewelry, fiber baskets, and a lot more. Be sure to pay a visit to ALL KINDS OF ART. I've been browsing through Glenda's shop and am amazed at all the areas of creativity.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

My kindergarten teacher told my parents to encourage me in art and I knew I wanted to teach art by the time I got to 6th grade. I wound up teaching art to middle school and high school kids for 31 years.

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

I liked drawing and painting really well in my college years, but when I took a workshop with Vera Curnow, who founded the Colored Pencil Society of America, I got hooked on colored pencils! They are SO wonderful, especially when used with a solvent and watercolors.

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

Getting the IDEA for an art piece and working out the logistics---what surface, what size, what colors to use, how to create the focal point and contrast. When I'm making craft items, like my facepins, it is the decorating that thrills me. Sometimes I am having so much fun I will sit there and just cackle---some items just seem to create their own personality.

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

Grapes. I love so many different mediums that they are the grapes that make up the "bunch" in my shop.

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

Gardening. I love to grow flowers but I am not very good at it. I admire those who can grow a lovely flower garden full of color and scent.

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

Color and creativity can enrich anyone's home and life.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Sometimes your best rewards can come just from the art of creating. Whether you sell the item or get an award for it or not, you learned something new just by creating it.

GLENDA, thanks so much for sharing all your creative talents with everyone, and for giving us a bit of an insight as to what makes you "tick" as an artist. BEAUTIFUL WORK! To see more of Glenda's work be sure to visit the links below.

GALLERY OF PHOTOS

WINNER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY from DESIGNED by LUCINDA

I am happy to be hosting this fun "WINNER'S CHOICE" giveaway from DESIGNED BY LUCINDA on Etsy. As the prize, the winner will have the fun of picking out ONE item in Lucinda's shop with a value of $20.00 or less.

The two photos in this giveaway are an example of what you may want to choose as a prize! Don't miss out on this great giveaway.

The choices are too numerous to list here, so be sure to visit DESIGNED BY LUCINDA to see all the creations that you will be able to choose from...should you be the lucky winner.


START DATE: January 20, 2009

END DATE: February 20, 2009 - 12 MIDNIGHT - CDT

PRIZE: 1 - Winner's choice of any ONE item in Designed by Lucinda, with a value of $20.00 or less

OPEN: Worldwide

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment in this post. It would also be fun to tell what item you would choose if you are the winner.

2. PLEASE BE SURE TO leave your email address in this post, or a link to your email address. WINNER will be contacted via email...so it is very important to leave a means of contacting you!!

3. I will randomly select a WINNER from all the entries received after the end of the giveaway. I will notify WINNER via email, with the request that they send me their complete shipping information.

WINNER will then have 5 days in which to respond to this email. If I do not hear from the WINNER within the given timeframe, I will randomly select another name from the remaining entries.

4. Once a WINNER has been confirmed, they will be contacted by DESIGNED BY LUCINDA so that they may choose their prize.

5. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at: dzfairies@msn.com

A big "thank you" to DESIGNED BY LUCINDA for having this fun giveaway!

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ALTERITY - Antique Button Jewelry

WELCOME, Lisa of ALTERITY - Antique Button Jewelry out on Etsy. While looking through Lisa's shop, ALTERITY, I happened across the above earrings, and was quite taken with their design. If you pay a visit to ALTERITY, I'm sure you will be amazed at what Lisa has created out of antique buttons, without damaging the buttons themselves. First, let's learn a bit more about this multi-talented artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I was actually a closet beader, beading for friends and family for gifts. Work and family began to slowly take over my life, and just recently, my husband has allowed me to leave the work behind, devoting my time to family and craft. Oh, seeing as thought I collect antique clothing buttons as a hobby, I began working them into my jewelry in the fall of 2007. In January this year, I began my business!

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

This was tough. I paint and sew, too, in addition to making jewelry. I opened Alterity on Etsy to originally sell my button jewelry, but found my other items infiltrating it (quilts, paintings, journals, etc.) Just a few months ago, I decided to open Alterity Art (which is my legal business name) on Etsy, to sell all the other stuff and keep Alterity exclusively as an antique button jewelry site, as well as my journals.

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

Everything! The purchasing, the designing, the creating, the listing, the selling and finally, the shipping. This is one job I will never grow to hate or be bored with!

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

Definitely a Pomegranite. Not all people find my jewelry as beautiful as I do (like the peel on a pomegranite), however, take the peel off and who can resist the shiny, sweet delicate seeds inside!

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

Easy - Painting. There are just some ways you can't express yourself in jewelry!

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

Elegance of the victorian era and the flippant fun of 40's and 50's (well, at least the swing music of the 40's...wars are never fun!)

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do and make what you like...those with your same tastes will find you. Don't give up waiting though, your patience will pay off!

LISA, thanks for sharing your unique, creative jewelry with us! You can visit ALTERITY by clicking on the photos below to go directly to that item in Lisa's shop, or click on the ALTERITY link below the photos to see all the times in the shop. I've also added Lisa's other Etsy shop link below.