FEATURED ETSY SHOP - AGERATUM JEWELRY by DONNA

Amethyst Elegance Necklace with a Fiery Spark

AGERATUM JEWELERY

by DONNA

The gorgeous amethyst necklace shown above is only one of the many beautifully designed pieces of jewelry that you will find when you visit Donna's Etsy shop, AGERATUM!  Donna has a huge selection of necklaces, earrings, earring/bracelet sets and more, so be sure to stop by for a visit.  Here you will find some great gift ideas, and also great savings.  AGERATUM is offering a "holiday sale" through December 15th!!  Don't miss out!

To find out a bit more about this delightful jewelry artist, read her interview below.

What led you to creating your art/craft?

I've always been inclined to make things myself and have done many kinds of crafts. One day, while visiting our kids in MA, we girls decided that to visit a shop and make our own necklace/etc. would be fun. I have been stringing ever since and can't seem to stop!


How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I've always liked natural stones. My brother cuts gemstones and that probably enhanced my desire to make beautiful things with natural gemstones also. Since then I have branched out into glass and this year I have purchased a set of polymer snowmen for earrings. The thought of using plastic just makes me shudder, although I suppose there are some beautiful plastic beads around.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
The finished product - and its NOT finished until its most enjoyable to me!


If you had to chose a fruit OR vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you chose and why?
A strawberry. It has such vibrant colors, it starts out as a pretty little green plant, then a beautiful little white flower appears (much like a thought that pops into my head for creating), then it grows into a beautiful red fruit (red, my favorite) that is sweet and tart (down right sassy) and has all those varied little seeds adorning it. Yummy! And quite often they are shaped like little hearts - symbolizing love. That's where my creations come from - the heart.

If you had to chose one other medium in which to dislay your "creativity", what would that be, and why?
Photography. I'm not very good at it, but it just thrills me to capture some of God's handiwork in a still picture. I am learning how to use those few good pics I get to turn them into objects of appreciation. Am I thinking a new etsy shop here??? hmmmm

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
Just love one another - be happy, enjoy life. Never give up.

With All My Heart .....
feel so special while wearing this lovely bracelet and earring set .....or give as a gift

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

My first thought is "Oh my! I need all the advice I can get!" Not sure if I could help someone else. HA Maybe, just put love into your work, and always do the best you can. Be open to criticism - it is a learning tool, even though it may hurt a little.

Donna, thanks for a delightful interview, and for sharing all of your lovely creations with everyone!  One can tell you really enjoy what you do!


You can visit Donna's shop by clicking on any of the photos below, to go directly to that item, or click on her shop name below the photos, to visit her AGERATUM shop.

DZFANTASY'S November Giveaway....WINNER'S CHOICE OF "FAIRY FACE PIN/KNIT NECKLACE SET"

Fairy Face Pin/Knit Necklace

I'm a bit late in getting my November giveaway out here on DZFANTASY.  I've decided the giveaway for November will be a WINNER'S CHOICE of any one of my new designs of a "fairy face pin/knit necklace set", that is available in my DZFANTASY shop at the close of the giveaway.

These "sets" make a fun, colorful accessory for any top or sweater.  You can either wear the pin alone, alongside the necklace or pin the fairy face anywhere on the necklace to achieve your own individual style.  Great gift idea!

START DATE:  11/9/09

END DATE:  12/9/09 - 12:00 Midnight CST

OPEN:  Worldwide

PRIZE:  WINNER'S choice of any "set" which is in my DZFANTASY shop at close of auction.

VALUE: $30.00

HOW TO ENTER:

1.  Visit my DZFANTASY shop to see which "set" you would choose if you were the lucky winner, then come back to this giveaway post and leave a comment as to which one is your favorite.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO VISIT MY SHOP

2.  Please be sure to leave your EMAIL address or a valid link to your EMAIL address, as this is the only way I will be contacting the winner.

3.  At the end of the giveaway, I will randomly select a name from all the entries received up until the end of the giveaway on 12/9/09 - 12 Midnight CST

4.  If WINNER doesn't contact me within the given timeframe, I will have to randomly select another winner from the remaining entries.

Below are several photos of the "sets" that I now have available.  Each set includes one of my original designed "fairy face" pins, and a matching handknit necklace. 

If you have any questions regarding this giveaway, please feel free to contact me (Donna) at: dzfairies@msn.com

GOOD LUCK TO ALL!

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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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - RACHEL MORGAN DESIGNS

Bird, Nest, and Egg Pendant or Brooch

by

RACHEL MORGAN DESIGNS

CLICK on photo to learn more about this charming item!

WELCOME, Rachel and her Etsy shop, RACHEL MORGAN DESIGNS. When you pay a visit to Rachel's shop, you will find original designed necklaces, earrings, and also several household items. Her prices are very affordable, and the designs are charming, so be sure to stop in for a peek!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always been interested in crafting, and had been doing hemp jewelry for fun since the summer camp days. After I got hired at a desk job that required me only to answer the phone (that barely rings!) I decided to start making jewelry in my spare work time. It then progressed into a hobby I do outside of work!

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

I chose jewelry simply because it was something I could do at my desk. My other hobbies (painting, screenprinting) are inherently messy.

Mermaid Dangle Beaded Earrings

CLICK on earrings to learn more about them!

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

I really enjoy looking at a finished product and being proud of it. I love the calm it brings me as well. Nothing makes a pleasant end to an otherwise crappy day like sitting down and creating a few new pieces in the evening.

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

Odd question! I guess I'd say...apples. There are multiple varieties and colors, everyone has a favorite, but they're all delicious.

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 one other medium, it would definitely be painting. I paint just about as much as I create jewelry, I just haven't yet put anything up for sale.

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

If there's a message to convey, it's that anyone can be creative, and that some of the most simple things can be the most expressive and beautiful.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

My advice: Don't create your art for money. Create your art because you want to, because it's worth it to you. Ask yourself -- if I were to never make any money off this, would I continue to do it? If the answer is no, you might as well stop now; your lack of passion will show. If the answer is yes, keep crafting. You will be successful.

Great answers, Rachel! ThankS for taking the time to share these thoughts and your creativity with everyone.

To see more of Rachel's designs, be sure to visit her links below.

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - NEW HOPE BEADING BY CAROLINE MAGDA

Labradorite, Keishi Pearl, and Sterling Silver Bracelet

by

NEW HOPE BEADING

(Click on above photo to learn more about his beautiful bracelet)

I'm very happy to have Caroline and her Etsy shop NEW HOPE BEADING as a featured shop here on DZFANTASY. Be sure to pay a visit to NEW HOPE BEADING to see all of Caroline's beautiful pieces of jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started making jewelry after my daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy. At first, I made medic alert bracelets for her, but soon found that, because I needed to concentrate on what I was doing, making jewelry kept me from worrying about her having a seizure at school. When she had more bracelets than any 8 year old could possibly wear and I had run out of people to make gifts for, my husband encouraged me to start a business.

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

I have always been fascinated with gemstone. When I was about 6 years old, Santa brought me a rock tumbler. I remember waiting for it to be done…because it takes a couple of weeks, you know. When it was finally done I would roll the stones over and over in my hands and take in every detail and feature. I haven’t changed much. Today I received a shipment of gemstones from a supplier. I could hardly contain myself to get the envelope opened. I have been moving them around on trays all day in different combinations with different things I own already. First I think they want to be a necklace, no a bracelet. I should probably start work on some of the pieces, but I won’t. I need to look at them for a few days and “play” some more. When it is the right combination I will know.

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

I love the planning. I am never at a loss for ideas. Last night my 6 year old woke up with a bad dream. I got him back to sleep, but instead of going back to sleep I crept down to my studio at 3:00 am because I had just decided how I wanted to lay out a certain necklace and had to quickly sketch it before I forgot.

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

Yeah don’t think I can think of one and I really tried LOL. I don’t think of my craft as a noun but rather as a verb. It would be more like creating a meal for dinner. You have to decide what to serve and how you are going to prepare it. So I guess making fruit salad is the best thing I can come up with for fruits. What are you going to include? How are you going to present it?

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

I used to write. In fact my Masters is in teaching writing. As I’ve gotten older, however, I find writing drains me. I am not sure why this is, but it is probably the reason I do not have a blog of my own. Making jewelry has just the opposite effect on me. It energizes me.

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

I don’t know that I necessarily want to convey a message, but rather it is a form of duty. I feel a respect for the materials and feel obliged to mold them. I used to laugh when I would hear the old adage about the sculptor who saw the block of stone and knew where the sculpture lay within it. “Yeah right?” I hear myself say. But if I have to be honest, and I know it sounds silly and I fear a bit pretentious, but I’ve had that feeling. I do try to use my shop I as a way to be an Epilepsy Advocate. Even today, epilepsy is a topic that people shy away from. This stigma keeps people from seeking treatment and makes them feel alone. They are not alone. Epilepsy affects 3 million Americans and 50 million people worldwide. That is more than MS, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease combined! To hear their stories, visit http://www.epilepsyadvocate.com/ and click “Meet the Advocates.”I keep this link in my shop announcements as a resource for people. From time to time, I have items where 100% of the sale price is donated to The Epilepsy Foundation of NJ. Right now I have 2 such items. These items can be found under my shop section “Benefit EFNJ”. In addition, I donate 5% of all sales to The Epilepsy Foundation of NJ.

Coral, Turquoise, and Bali Silver Earrings

These deligthful earrings above are one of the items in NEW HOPE BEADING, where 100% of the sale price will be donated to Epilepsy Foundation of NJ.

(Click on the photo, to learn more about these earrings)

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

For me, I always say don’t let all of the promoting and pressure to do more eclipse what you love to do.

Thanks, Caroline, for not only sharing your lovely creations, but also for your part in trying to help people learn more about epilepsy. It is a very misunderstood disease. My mother was diagnosed with it when she was in her later years, so I know what you are talking about. May you have a lot of success in your contributions toward this disease.

If you'd like to learn more about Caroline and her jewelry, be sure to visit her links below.

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

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - CALIKLEIN

PEARLY BRIGHTS

by Cali Klein

Cali of CALIKLEIN on Etsy has some exquisitely designed earrings and necklaces in her shop. I was just out there taking a look around, and found one creation to be prettier than the next. Cali uses semiprecious and precious stones and beads along with sterling silver to design her beautiful jewelry.

She also has a wide select in both the necklace and earring categories, so be sure to pay CALIKLEIN a visit. You just might find something that you can't do without!

What led you to start creating your art/craft, and how did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

The way I got into making jewelry is a bit unorthodox. . . The truth of the matter is, I was bored with the jewelry I was seeing everywhere and oftentimes it was way too expensive. . . so I started making jewelry for myself. People would stop me and ask me where I bought the earrings or necklace I was wearing. When I told them that I made them, they would ask if I could make something for them. One person even bought a necklace off of my neck! After a while, my jewelry making habit began to be a very expensive one, so I decided I should start selling the pieces I made instead of just keeping them for myself!

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

My favorite aspect about making jewelry is that each piece can be so different from the next. I love making one of a kind pieces because they feel special. I also love hunting for beautiful semiprecious and precious stones. I want to make women feel even more beautiful! I think jewelry is a great form of self expression and it's a wonderful way to complete an outfit.

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

The fruit that best describes my jewelry would probably be mango because much of my jewelry is vibrant in color and a little bit exotic.

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

I also display my creativity with industrial design, design research, and drawing & painting.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

The only real advice I'd give to other crafters would be to make what you love! I believe that if the things you make are things that you'd want to own, others are bound to want whatever it is you're making and selling.

Cali, it was fun having you out on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Your work is beautiful! Keep on creating!

Don't forget now, be sure to pay a visit to CALIFKLEIN.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PLUM VALLEY DESIGNS - Custom Designs for Fashion and Fun

AUTUMN LEAF SET
(You can go directly to this item in Vicky's shop by clicking on the photo)

WELCOME, Vicky and her Etsy shop PLUM VALLEY DESIGNS. When you pay a visit to PLUM VALLEY DESIGNS, you will find a wonderful selection of jewelry....such as the beautiful necklace and earring set shown above. How romantic looking!

Island Dreams Orchid

(This lovely piece is now on sale at PLUM VALLEY DESIGNS...Click on the photo to learn more!)

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started working with crafts and jewelry over 15 years ago. I began by making fancy masquerade masks in my parents garage (the only place I didn't have to clean up the glitter). I then decided I wanted to make my own earrings. I eventually worked my way into seed beads just before my oldest (who is now 12 and manages to take off with my beads now) was born. The beaded amulet bags seemed to be my downfall. I loved the challenge it offered. I even took my beads and patterns to the hospital with me so I had something to do in my down time before she was born! Then with children, came a pause in my beading until about 6 years ago. Now it has exploded all over my study and into the general public!

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

I do not think I have decided on a medium yet. I feel that working with a little bit of everything allows for more creativity. I do have my favorites of pearls and semi precious gemstones though. Eventually I may even take up drawing, because I have tons of little slips of paper throughout the house with sketches of ideas I have during the day. Well, maybe not yet!

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

Sitting up until the wee hours of the morning getting that one design to flow or take shape. Also, I love being able to finish something and say "Now that is my best yet".

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

A mango. With the fullness of the color inside (deep to bright orange) it takes me back to the copper and golden colors I absolutely love. The rich copper tones of sunstones. And on the outside there is the green and red coloring of the skin which remind me of being outside at dusk with the scarlet red sun setting behind the lush green hills. There I go again sounding like I am describing a necklace or a pair of earrings!

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

I would have to say watercolors. I really want to say finger paints(ah the things we learn from Girl Scout meetings)..... But with the great blending of colors, how they dance around each other with such grace. Water colors are really a beautiful way to express ones self.

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

I want people to know that you do not have to pay a lot for beautiful work. You can look great, know your jewelry is going to last, and that it won't be found walking around the corner and running into you. I think that everyone should have something special that they enjoy know that they have an original piece of jewelry.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Get out and be involved in your community events. Find local fairs or Saturday markets to showcase your work. No event is a waste if you can get out and promote your work! Find many ways to get your work out and be seen. Stand behind your work and do not be afraid that it is not good enough. Be proud to know that your works are hand made.

Vicky, it has been a real pleasure to have you and your work out here on DZFANTASY! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with all of us. Beautiful work! To see more of Vicky's creations be sure to visit her links below.

PLUM VALLEY DESIGNS ON ARTFIRE

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FEATURED ETSY SHOP - BARONESS BIJOUTERY

Tender Grapes Necklace

WELCOME, CJ and her Etsy shop BARONESS BIJOUTERY. CJ's lovely jewelry speaks for itself! You will find a wide selection of beautiful necklaces, pendants, chokers, earrings and more when you pay a visit to BARONESS BIJOUTERY. The "Tender Grapes Necklace" above is just one of the many beautiful designs created by CJ.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I guess I have always been creating something in my life. My first endeavor was doll clothesby hand at age . That led to learning to operate a sewing machine and I started making clothes for myself at 10, then for friends and finally a wedding gown for a friend at 15. For over 30 years I had my own wedding business. I designed and made wedding gowns and formal wear. I loved the beading of these gowns and making the "crowns" of the brides. I closed that business about 10 years ago and then my daughter talked me into starting to make jewelry again. That was about 3 years ago. Bless her! I didn't know how much I missed creating something.

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

I have always loved pearls and crystals, then I discovered wire work. I like putting all those elements into my pieces.

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

When others see in it what I hope they will see...I like it when the piece they have chosen speaks to them. Jewelry is personal and it should be.

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

It would have to be an Eggplant..it has smooth lines, is elegant and a favorite color of mine as can be seen in Tender Grapes Necklace.

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

It would most likely be sewing again. I love making clothing and making my own patterns. I would probably do more crocheting..I love making baby clothes and blankets..

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

That elegance, romance and fun are still alive and well out there. That you can have the best of all worlds in one piece of jewelry.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Always remember to have fun with your craft/art..this will always show in your pieces. Don't think of this as work, but enjoyment and fulfillment. Also be prepared to be ready for work, and by that I mean promoting your work. It takes time to build a customer base and you are the one to do that. Three words to building your business is PROMOTE, PROMOTE, PROMOTE. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there your work is worth it!!!!

THANKS, CJ, for taking the time to share your thoughts, ideas and wonderful jewelry with all of us.

You can learn more about CJ's creations by clicking on the links below.

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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

SPRING FLING PART II - If you are looking for SPRING, you'll find it on ETSY!

SPRING FLING - PART II

Come join me in the second series of delightful, colorful spring items from a collection of shops on ETSY. Whether you live in an area where it finally looks like spring has sprung, or you live in a warm climate all year long, I'm sure you will enjoy what the following shops have to offer.

This is SPRING FLING - PART II. I will have a SPRING FLING III out here in the next week or two. ENJOY!!

Girls' Peach Gown with Ruffled Overskirt and Gold Accents, Size 4

SHOP: Needful Things of Salem
Baby items, children clothes, stuffed animals and more

SKETCHY PETALS PRINT

SHOP: ALISHA VERNON

Sketchy petal prints and abstract prints

Crochet Necklace--3 Tiered Bright Amber Yellow with Bead

SHOP: SUMPIN ELSE

Handcrafted custom gifts, journals, cards, boxes, frames and more

Garden Green Floral White and Brown Spring Flowers DiY Adjustable Silver Tone Circle Ring

SHOP: SPARKLE ME

Rings (Kawaii, gothic, elegant, geekery) necklaces, magnets and more

GISELLE NECKLACE
SHOP: KRISTEN ANN
Earrings, Necklaces and Bangles

Flower Photo Note Card Sets

SHOP: PAST PERFECT
Fine art photo prints and cards

Handpainted Original Puzzle Charm SPRING DELIGHT

SHOP: PIECES OF ME by LMG DESIGN

Jewelry, Charms, stationery

Daisy the Any Occasion messenger dog
SHOP: WISH WITH ME
Soft sculpted dolls, animals, crocheted bags

TWEET TWEET BIRDIES

SHOP: COTTAGE DAY DREAMS

Handmade cottage-style tablecloths, aprons, comforters, quilts, pillows and more

DARLIN DIVAS Hand Painted Wooden Wall Letters shown in Storybook font

SHOP: POSH DOTS

Custom, Handpainted Wooden Letters and Decor

Paper Crochet Single Egg Holder

SHOP: MY THETA

Crochet and Fiber Goods

Iris Flower Art-Turn the Tide

SHOP: ALL KINDS OF ART

Artwork, Pins/Jewelry, Purses, Fiber Baskets and more

Diane, Her Iris Vase and Her Dog - set of 5 magnets

SHOP: TAMER HAMMER

Whimsical paintings, greeting cards, magnets and more

Mesh Cap with Flower - Ivory - Newborn to Child Sizes - Perfect Spring or Summer Cap
SHOP: CHARBRIDGE KNITS AND GIFTS
Fun, whimsical handmade knits for kids of all ages

Scrabble Tile Pendant - Bunny Rabbits and Carrot

SHOP: SQUARES OF FLAIR

Scrabble Tile Pendants

SPRING BIRDHOUSE

SHOP: PURPLE SMURPLE

Handpainted items

Kiwi - ceramic necklace

SHOP: 3 SQUARES

JEWELRY: Metal necklaces, glass necklaces, earrings and more

IMPRESSION

SHOP: DIAMOND SEEDS

Unique handcrafted Jewelry

Silver Filigree Leaf Spring Necklace blue green pink antiqued

SHOP: UNORIGINAL SINNER

Unique Clockwork Steampunk Bohemian Victorian Jewelry

Give Me A Boost Frog Vase

SHOP: LISA D. POTTERY

Raku Pottery