FEATURED ETSY SHOP - toastory

Ladylike Navy Bow Necklace with Pearls

by

toastory

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

Let's welcome, Judy and her Etsy shop which she calls "toastory".  Pay a visit to Judy's shop and you will find unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry and accessories.

First take a moment to read Judy's interview below.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Ever since I was a little kid, I love drawing, painting, and crafting. I loved creating things for my family and me. I always refined some existing designs with my whimsical thoughts.

Scarf Sky Blue Floral printed Chiffon

(CLICK on above title to learn more about this item)

Colorful floral printed scarf made by knitted chiffon with black charmeuse.

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

With all my creations, I started with hand-stitching when I was little. I remember the first bag I made is a small little jeans handbag with a little patchwork. Soon thereafter, I have learned the most practical skills I ever felt, which was sewing. I tried to make decorations, bags, accessories, anything that can be created by a sewing machine.

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

I try my best to create an accessory that has not existed, and hope customers would find something unique and represent them.

Moonlight Floral Bracelet Belt

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

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

I would choose bookmaking. I always do it in my spare time, and love to play with differents texture of papers.

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

My mission is to create an adorable, but stylish accessory that you would adore.

Geometric printed Sateen Tote bag

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

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be unique, not to easily get influenced by the others.


Thanks, Judy, for taking the time to share your lovely, unique creations and your thoughts with everyone.  To see more of Judy's designs, be sure to visit the links below.

FLICKR

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.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - CUT YOUR HEART OUT

My Heart Is Rubber and You Are Glue Necklace

by Jessica

of

CUT YOUR HEART OUT

Just in time for Valentine's Day....! 

 I'm happy to welcome Jessica and her Etsy shop which she calls CUT YOUR HEART OUT.  Pay a visit to Jessica's shop, where you will find her fun jewelry designs like the heart necklace above and the colorful button necklace below.

Button Up Necklace

Read Jessica's interview below to learn a bit more about how she got started creating her fun, funky jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've always been the artsy/crafty sort. When I was a kid I was constantly making things out of random objects. I can't think of one time in my life when I wasn't engaged in some sort of art activity, whether it be writing, photography, painting or crafting. A couple of years ago, I started making jewelry and it became a favorite pass time. I don't even remember what sparked the interest other than the fact that I love accessories, but at one point I made way more pieces than I needed so I decided to try my hand at selling some of them on Etsy.

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


I played around with various materials until I found the ones I liked best. I tend to go for a more eclectic feel so using found objects is my main source of inspiration which are also used in my pieces.


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


There's something very therapeutic about creating objects with my hands. I enjoy the time I spend actually making the pieces.

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


A mango. Not so foreign that no one "gets" it, but just exotic enough that it stands out in the fruit bowl.

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


Photography. I have always loved being behind the lens.


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


Individuality, passion, soulfulness.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?


Create with your heart.

Thanks, Jessica, for a great interview, and for sharing your creativity with everyone!  To learn more about Jessica and her creations, be sure to visit her links below.

BLOG

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - EMILY'S ESCAPE

Vintage Inspired Flower Necklace

by Emily

Swarovski Crystal and Pearl V-Shaped Drop Necklace
(Click on the above photo to learn more about this exquisite necklace)

WELCOME, Emily and her recently opened shop on Etsy, EMILY'S ESCAPE. If you are looking for some really exquisite pieces of jewelry...necklaces, earrings....be sure to pay a visit to EMILY'S ESCAPE. Her delicate designs are beautiful and the prices are great!!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've been interested in making and wearing jewelry ever since I was old enough to thread a bead onto a piece of string. My craft has obviously evolved over the years. Since I love making jewelry so much, I decided to try and make a small business out of it.

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

I've experimented in all kinds of supplies for making jewelry. In the fifth grade I started selling jewelry I made with seed beads. After that I got into hemp jewelry. In high school I was very interested in chainmaille. Now I have a wedding coming up and I decided to make the jewelry for myself and my bridesmaids. That has gotten me interested in more delicate and formal jewelry made with crystal and silver.

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

I love the process of making jewelry because it helps me escape the real world. Taking a few hours to use your hands and forget about life's worries is very relaxing. I also appreciate getting comments from people. It's great to see that my work has an effect on others.

Lavender Cluster Earrings - Swarovski Crystals and Pearls Clustered on Silver Plated Chain

(CLICK on the above photo to learn more about these enchanting earrings!)

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

A strawberry. It's sweet, delicate, and pretty.

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

I already love to draw and play piano. I just wish I was better at both. If I were to try something new I might try writing a novel. I like to read and write, but I've never been able to find the time to practice my writing.

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

Jewelry that is feminine and delicate can also be edgy and unique.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Don't worry too much about the statistics on your page (sales, views, hearts, etc). Focus more on making connections with people and enjoying yourself. When you spend more time really reaching out to people and doing what you love, the rest will follow.

EMILY, it was great to have you and your delightful jewelry here on DZFANTASY as a featured Etsy artist. Your work is very exquisite. Wishing you much success!

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

DEVIANT ART

LIVE JOURNAL

EMILY'S ESCAPE BLOG

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - VERRE DESIGN

LADY BUG NECKLACE

Glass Lampwork, Obsidienne and Silver Necklace

by Patricia Wood

of VERRE DESIGN

Patricia of VERRE DESIGN on Etsy is a talented jewelry and glass artist, from Quebec, who has some very exquisite creations in her shop. I find the creation of lampwork beads very fascinating, and love how they look, so I'm very happy to have Patricia as a featured artist out here on DZFANTASY.

Be sure to visit Patricia's shop as she has a large selection of beautiful necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more, in which she incorporates her wonderful handmade lampwork beads.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Glassblowing always fascinated me. Encased pieces are almost mesmerizing... I started melting glass as a hobby that soon became a passion. I’ve also always loved original handmade silver jewelry. Incorporating some of my handmade beads into my designs sort of came naturally.

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

I don’t think I ever decided... It was just “it”!

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

I love each part of it! I love the “zen” state I’m in when I melt glass, the concentration and attention it requires, the different textures and feels each color have, the planning it sometimes requires to make a specific design or achieve a certain effect. And I love designing jewelry, selecting components, working with silver wire and silver clay... coordinating it all to create unique and original pieces. And the smile on my face when I just get it right!

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

Avocado – For its mysterious center, its soft, smooth and silky texture, its vibrant and changing color, it’s sublime look (and taste) just by itself or the great combination it makes with other ingredients.

RED HOT CHILI PEPPER EARRINGS

Handmade Lampwork Beads

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

I love writing and cooking and to make my own gift cards... but I will say sculpture – to uncover and touch the angels hidden in marble.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
Accessories make the look – wear what you like and what makes you feel good.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be passionate, curious and try different things. Remember that practice makes perfect and to train your creativity muscle every day. “Whether you believe you can make it or not, you’re probably right”. Find joy in creating.

THANKS, Patricia for taking the time to share your creativity and thoughts with all of us. Beautiful creations!!

Be sure to visit the links below to see and learn more about Patricia and her VERRE DESIGN creations.

VERRE DESIGN BLOG

VERRE DESIGN WEBPAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - THE SPEECE COLLECTION

Bracelet Nesting Pretty Pearls, Lavender

by Pat

There is so much detail in the beautiful bracelet by Pat from The Speece Collection, that I have put the close-up photo and another photo showing the whole bracelet. What a gorgeous creation! One can tell that a lot of time went into its creation.

Let's welcome Pat, and her Etsy shop The Speece Collection! When you pay a visit to Pat's shop you will find some very exquisite creations ranging from earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more. Read below to learn a little bit about Pat and her work.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

Rocks, jewelry, rocks, jewelry......As a kid, I collected and saved my rocks mainly from the field behind my house, carefully saving them in an old bucket. I spent many afternoons dipping each rock into a pan of water and admiring the colors and patterns. Later, jewelry took over as an interest, and finally matured into the realization that a lot of jewelry is made from gems and minerals, and rocks --- all solid earth creations. Now I could work with both interests. But how? I joined a rockhound group, and during one of the shows, a friend was demonstrating how to make jewelry. I stood transfixed, admiring his ability and creations. He said, "Pat, you can do this!"Really? Yes... and so I did.

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

After working with clay, jewelry components were light-weight, small, dry, and I could wear the outcome! I could also work in the house on cold days.

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

I love looking at a pile of components and turning that into something beautiful. The entire process is satisfying, and I feel really good with the final results. If I don't, it's back to the drawing board until I am very happy with the outcome. When I think I might be done with a piece, I ask myself what can I do to make it better. When I answer that question, and act on it, then I know it is finished and ready for someone else. That is the most fulfilling feeling!

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

A peach. They are beautiful, tasty, filling and satisfying. I like to think my customers are happy and very satisfied with their piece, the piece that fills a need to complete their outfit.

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

I would choose clay sculpture. I've done this in the past. Clay is forgiving of mistakes in that you can just wipe them out and go forward until the piece looks right and wonderful in all its parts as well as in total. Sculpture allows changing directions in the middle of the process, as does making jewelry. Since color is not involved, it is possible to concentrate on form only.

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

I want them to realize that the piece was made with great care, and that it shows. When one of my pieces arrives at its destination, I want the buyer to open the mailing box, slip off the ribbon and note, and with happy anticipation, lift off the lid of the gift box, and have a big grin on their face, and exclaim "Wow!".

What advice to you have for other artists/crafters?

I would advise others to find the creative outlet that satisfies them. Something that is enjoyable in every step of the way, that the challenges are not insurmountable, and that greatly satisfies them.

Pat, thanks again, for sharing, and for a really great interview! Your work is beautiful, and one can tell that you really love what you do...your creations certainly reflects it.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - Fleur De Irk by Ira Zelickman

Gorgeous Carnelian Necklace

by Ira Zelickman

I throughly enjoyed exploring Ira's jewelry shop, FLEUR DE IRK on Etsy. This jewelry artist has some very beautiful, distinctive and elegant creations....! You really must take the time to have a peek into her shop, where you will find a wide selection of evening necklaces, bridal collection, everyday necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and more.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I really can’t say. I had this crafty itch as long as I can remember. There were different crafts along the way.

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

My first seed beads came from a broken Czech necklace. The beads were black and white and I made an ornamental bracelet with wire. I was 7 at that time. It is hard to imagine this now but there were no beading books in 1970 in Moscow, so I invented different methods of beadwork myself. I use these methods to this day. It turns out many of these stitches are well-known and have a name. In much later years, I discovered internet shops with all the different materials and incorporated natural stones and pearls in my beadwork.

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

I love finding the best decoration for a stone. I really enjoy seeing how a beaded setting brings out the beauty of natural material.

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 pomegranate. Composed of small jewel-bright seeds and fit for a most festive table.

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

Ceramics. I like it as much as beadwork, and one day maybe I will be able to bring these to crafts together.

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

I think there is not enough beauty in our lives, and I try to create jewelry that will make women look prettier.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Go for your heart’s desire! Don’t allow fashion trends to affect your creations too much.

Ira, it has been a real pleasure to have you on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Your work is quite beautiful! Thanks again, for sharing your thoughts and creativity.

You can learn more about Ira and her creations by clicking on the links below.

FLEUR DE IRK WEB PAGE

DEVIANT ART

FLICKR

LIVE JOURNAL (In Russian)

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - NEW LIFE DESIGNS

Shot Through the Heart Glass Heart Bracelet

WELCOME, Pam and her Etsy shop NEW LIFE DESIGNS. Don't you just love the fun, contemporary bracelet above with its glass hearts, and black and red colors! Pam has a wide variety of delightful jewelry...earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more. She uses one of my favorite beads in a lot of her designs...Swarovski crystals! They are so sparkly and fun!

Hi, My name is Pam & I live in Tyler, Texas. I'm a mother, wife, & a granny. I've been making jewelry about 4 years now, & I absolutely love it. My inspiration comes from life, culture,& nature. I love everything about it, from going to the bead store, being surrounded by all those gorgeous, shiny beads & finding that perfect bead or stone, to sitting down & creating something that's a little part of me. I've finally found my bliss!


What led you to start creating your art/craft?


It was sort of a roundabout way. I had always loved art as a kid, it was my favorite subject. As a young adult, I dabbled in this and that, trying crochet, cross stitch, drawing, etc. but, I never seem to find something that resonated. Fast forward to my early 50's, my boss in our office opened a boutique, where she started making jewelry to sell in her shop. I immediately became interested, (I think it was all the sparkle in the crystals, actually!) So, I bought a few books, tools, gemstones, crystals, and that's when I really got hooked. It kinda snowballed from there! I took several classes at my local bead store, and online, and I always get so excited when I learn something new that I can make.


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


It was truly love at first sight when I first got a look at all the gorgeous beads, crystals, stones, etc. that are out there. I go into my local bead store, and I just get mesmerized by all the beauty, I can stay in there for hours!


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


I think, while I really do love it all, my most favorite is when I actually sit down and lay everything out on my work space, and then pick up that tool, that's when time seems to stop for me.


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


This might sound weird, but I think I would say it's kind of like an onion, with every new technique I learn, or new piece I make, another layer gets peeled away and something even better is revealed.


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


Oh, that's a tough one. Hmmmm, I think I would like to try making glass or lampwork, or dichroic glass. Those pieces are so beautiful, I think that would be great.


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


I think the message I'd like to convey would be that everyone has a unique, creative spark inside, and it can only be expressed by discovering and uncovering who you really are inside. When you do that, (and it's available to all of us), that's when you can truly connect with people, like a language of the heart, so to speak.


What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?


First, pay no attention to the little man behind the curtain, the one who tells you, I'm not good enough, I can't do this, no one will like it. The only thing that matters is that you take the action, push past the doubt and fear, and really go for it! Oh, and also, have fun!

Thanks, Pam, for a great interview and sharing your creativity with all of us. Be sure to pay a visit to NEW LIFE DESIGNS, and also check out Pam's other links listed below. You just might have to treat yourself to a pair of new earrings, bracelet....or who knows what else might catch your eye!

BLOG

INDIEPUBLIC

ETSY TEXAS CRAFTERS PAGE

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - AZHURE'S JEWELS

What a gorgeous, magical looking necklace created by Amanda of AZHURE'S JEWELS out on Etsy. You really must pay a visit to Amanda's shop as she has the most enchanting jewelry there...a wide selection of gemstone necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more! Her work is exquisite, and I love the imaginative descriptions she has for each piece. They are truly works of art!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always had a magpie like love for jewelry. As a child I had the strange belief that jewelry was a sacred art that only a select few were privileged to learn. I started art at a very young age, thanks to my mother's constant introduction of different mediums and techniques...but to be honest I was more interested in the pursuit of knowledge than art until I was about 15.

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

My mother was the one who introduced jewelry to me. Every other medium I experimented with just never really worked. Well for my 16th birthday I was given a beginner's set of beads...and it was like magic, I haven't stopped making jewelry since!

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

It is a tie between the whole process of designing the piece and figuring out the story or message I want to go with the particular piece...and...the sensory experiences of feeling and seeing those wonderful beads (I have times where I don't actually make anything, I just sit and fiddle with the beads .

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

Hmmm...that is something I have never had to give much thought to, and it was not easy to figure it out, but after lots of thought I have decided its the Star Fruit. The reason why..well first there is its appearance, it is an exotic and unusual fruit...my jewelry is exotic and unusual looking. The taste is a yummy combination of Kiwi, pineapple and apples. My jewelry is a combination of different materials and inspired by different cultures. And lastly...the shape, a star...one of my favorite forms of inspiration is the night sky.

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

Polymer Clay. Before I completely devoted my artistic energy on jewelry, I split it evenly with polymer clay. I love expressing myself with such a versatile material, it can be molded into just about anything...and unlike other forms of clay...it doesnt dry out if you wander off for a snack!

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

Well, it really depends on the piece. I want my jewelry to be more than just a necklace or a pair of earrings...I want it to be art that tells a story, I want the person who wears it, wear a piece of mythology, an aspect of nature or an emotion.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Follow your dreams and never turn away from the truth of self!

Amanda, thanks for a totally delightful interview. I especially love your thinking behind what fruit you chose to describe your art! To find out more about Amanda and AZHURE's JEWELS be sure to visit the links listed below.

AZHURE'S JEWELS BLOG

AZHURE'S JEWELS DEVIANT ART

FLICKR

GEM CONPENDIUM

FEATURED ETSY SHOPS OF ANITA BARNARD

Original Abstract Painting - Natura

by Anita Barnard

I'm happy to have Anita Barnard out here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Anita is a very multi-talented artist. She not only creates beautiful jewelry, mosaic creations, but is a "fine art" painter as well!!

Here you will learn a bit more about Anita and her multiple talents. Anita has two shops out on Etsy....her fine art shop is entitled ANITA BARNARD GALLERY, where you will find her abstract paintings and collages, and 13 MOONS ART, where you can see her jewelry designs and mosaic mirror creations and more.

Eve of Saint Agnes Mosaic Mirror

On the Eve of St. Agnes, young girls would look into the village well hoping to see their future husbands.With its rich colors of ruby and garnet, this mirror gleams with its own romantic spirit. The iridescent pink petals of a flower bloom in the bottom left corner, and a strand of deep red faceted beads runs down the right. This piece was designed to be slightly asymmetrical; the angle of the mirror reflects the slant of the left side of the wood base.The mirror measures 14 7/8 H x 11 to 11 3/8 inches W. The mirror is wired with heavy picture framing wire and ready to hang.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always created something: Paintings, quilts, murals, mosiacs, miniature environments of dirt, leaves, toys and twigs carefully placed in my little red wagon. I started making jewelry about six years ago after receiving a pretty little beaded bracelet for Christmas and thinking: I can do that!

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

I didn't! My first shop on Etsy http://www.13moonsart.etsy.com/ features jewelry, fused glass suncatchers and mosaic mirrors, and I just started a new one http://www.anitabarnard.etsy.com/ for Fine art: paintings, collage and art mosaics. Right now I have a painting to finish out on the deck and an unfinished mosaic and all it's little pieces of rocks and tiles spread out on my kitchen table.

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

I love envisioning and planning and sometimes actually dreaming about designs and images of things to make, and then seeing them begin to come together. I also have a secret fetish for graph paper...but often pieces veer off from the plan and take off in their own directions during the actual creation process.

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 very red and lush. There are all those seeds, like the many little pieces of separate materials that make up a collage or a mosaic or a beaded necklace. It has that tough skin and isn't always immediately accessible, but it's worth it when that tart-sweet burst of juice hits your tongue.

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

I quilted a lot a number of years ago, but just standard quilts, baby quilts. I see so many beautiful, intricate and intriguing art quilts, and they tempt me to get out my fabric stashes and set up the sewing machine again. But I'd have to pack away a lot of other art supplies to make a spot for it.

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

I don't think I'm trying to send a certain message. If I could cause world peace and eliminate hunger with my jewelry and art, that would be wonderful, but I'm really just trying to create something beautiful or intriguing or thought-provoking or just pleasing...I think that's a good goal...to just please someone, even if it is mostly myself, by the process of painting or turning what I've envisioned into reality. I also like the idea of another person looking at my work and relating to it in his or her own way and attaching his own meaning and connections to the piece. This is why I always have a hard time writing artist statements for exhibits; I hate the idea of having to explain a piece of art.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

"Let the beauty we love be what we do." -Rumi Enjoy what you are doing and don't give up.Connect with other artists and craftsmen. A local as well as an online artist community to share your ideas and work and concerns with is a wonderful thing. They will understand and support you.

Anita, thanks for a very "insightful" and "delightful" interview, and also for sharing all your wonderful artistic creations with us. Be sure to visit both of Anita's Etsy shops by clicking on the photos or links below.

ANITA'S BLOG

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ZEBA

I'm happy to have Sholeh and her delightful jewelry out here on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Be sure to visit her Etsy shop, ZEBA, to see all of her wonderful, unique creations. Also, be sure to enter her FREE GIVEAWAY drawing for a very delightful and charming necklace, which I am hosting out here on DZFANTASY! But first, let's learn a little bit more about Sholeh and her creations.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I started as a stained glass artist. While working on stained glass, I became interested in working with metals which led into making jewelry. Now making jewelry is my primary passion.

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

I like working with metal and with jewelry, but your choice of metals are somewhat limited. Gold is too expensive; copper, I like to work with, but it oxidizes; so the most practical one for me is Silver. I may still go back and give copper another try.

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

Trials and errors to find solutions so that the outcome is like what I have in mind, or something I am pleased with. A lot of time, I start with an idea and thru trial and error the end product is something I am proud of, but not necessarily what I started with. Sometimes I start without any idea at all and I let the metal or the wire tell me where I should go next.

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

I have to say ‘Ugly Fruit’. It is called ugly, it looks like an unripe orange, but you are in for a treat, if you are willing to try it. Raw materials for my craft are not pretty at all, and it takes a lot of time and effort to bring out the hidden potential and shine, just like an Ugly fruit, you have to cut into it and be trusting.

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

I have already tried, painting, color pencil and watercolor and stained glass and I like them both. But I have to say, I prefer Stained glass. Both the glass and metal have a mind of their own, which creates interesting problems and challenges.

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

I don’t have a special message; I just want to make people feel good.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be patient and don’t give up.

Thanks, Sholeh for sharing your thoughts and your creativity with all of us!

Also, thank you for participating in a "giveaway", on DZFANTASY, for one of your delightful creations.

Be sure to enter the drawing for this whimsical, fun cat necklace! You can go directly to Sholeh's "Cat in on a Window Ledge" necklace giveaway by clicking on the photo below.....all you need to do is a leave a comment in the post.

If you'd like to see more of Sholeh's creations be sure to visit her Etsy Shop and other links listed below.

FLICKR

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - MINDY G JEWELRY BOUTIQUE

WELCOME, Mindy of MINDY G JEWELRY BOUTIQUE, and her beautiful jewelry creations! I just love the colors and design of the above necklace. A truly delightful piece!

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have always loved arts and crafts as a little girl. If my hands are busy creating and designing things then my mind is at peace. I like the outlet that making something with my hands gives me.

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

Jewelry making started when my youngest son attended preschool and my older son started Kindergarten. I made a bracelet one day and I started getting compliments on it from other moms and girlfriends. Before I knew it I was getting orders from local moms and decided to start a line of jewelry to sell at home parties. That way I could still be home with my kids during the day and sell my jewelry on nights and weekends.

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

I like networking and meeting new customers that share the love of jewelry. It makes them happy and it makes me feel great that what I create can do that.

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 watermelon because when you cut it open you see the most beautiful shade of red and the contrast of the white rind and outer green is naturally very pretty. I like bright colors. I love combining bright colors together and different textures in my jewelry designs.

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

If I wasn't making jewelry I'd probably crochet or sew quilts because I love yarn and fabric and working with my hands. I like the colors and textures at the yarn and fabric stores, there are so many to choose from!

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

My jewelry sparks happy conversations and I get to meet so many nice people over the years. I am very detailed in my work and I make sure each piece is crafted with the best quality of gemstones, pearls and findings.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Keep an inner peace by creating and dreaming up new possibilities!

Thanks for a great interview, Mindy! Be sure to visit Mindy's shop on Etsy to see what other gorgeous pieces she has available. You can also see and learn more about her work by clicking on the various links below.

MINDY'S BLOG

FLICKR

INDIEPUBLIC

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - OLIVE DESIGNS by OLIVIA

At OLIVE DESIGNS by OLIVA you will find delightful, colorful change purses like the one above, wallets, earrings, and unique beaded hairpins to add a bit of whimsy to your hair! Be sure to visit Olivia's shop, and see if she has something for you.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?
It's very hard to say what led me in this direction, because I have been creating things ever since I can remember. I have always loved arts and crafts, creating things, and things of beauty or color ever since I was small. I started with doodling, drawing and painting, and then got into jewelry design, and sewing. When I recieved my first sewing machine for Christmas, that was a big stepping stone in getting into sewing, fibre art, and even fashion design. Through all my experimentations, I taught myself sewing techniques.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I got really into sewing and fashion design because it was a way to create art out of used and vintage clothing and fabrics, that was functional as well as beautiful. I love that idea! I wouldn't say that I only work with one medium. I do prefer sewing crafts and fibre art, I have tried so many different things! There are always new techniques to try and new materials to use. From watercolor painting to stained glass and felting, I love to explore new mediums.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I love sitting and listening to music and piecing together my designs. It's so much fun to put the pieces of fabric together and mix patterns and colors. I also love arranging buttons. I love how satisfying it is to have a finished product that so much love and care went into , and how each item comes out completely different.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
I would choose a strawberry...small, delicate, and cute as a button. Understated, unique, fun, and with a punch of flavour on the inside.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I also do a little bit of jewelry design, but I love to do fun watercolor and ink paintings. I would love to get more involved in it and learn more about it, I'm sure that will be my next big obsession.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
That life is beautiful! The little things in life can bring such joy, and you should just look around you and be appreciative of the beautiful world we live in.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Never give up! I know that is what everyone always says, but its true! If crafting and art is what brings you the most joy, and you love to do it, then continue with it, and keep working at it to evolve and fine tune your craft. I love how there is such a huge artist's community, that I never even knew about before, and I send all the best to all artists and crafters out there!! Keep being creative!

OLIVA, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and creativity with us. I'm sure you will find many other avenues of expressing yourself. Be sure to stop and visit...OLIVE DESIGNS out on Etsy. You can also learn more about Oliva and her designs by visiting her Indie Public link below.

INDIE PUBLIC

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - Pretty Little Love Objects by Blinking Mouse

Let's welcome PRETTY LITTLE LOVE OBJECTS by the Blinking Mouse, and hear what led this delightful artist to start designing her fun, colorful jewelry.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?
When I was young, I was a greeb, kind of a UK cross between what is now emo and a goth. Many, many, many plastic beaded stretch bracelets were the order of the day, and I used to make a lot of them myself. Eventually I stopped dressing in a way that reflected my musical tribe, but I was hooked on making bracelets and jewellery in general. I made a button necklace for my friends birthday, used some of the craft kits people had given me as presents, and became the unstoppable crafting machine I am today.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I’m really passionate about jewellery, I still love to buy it even though I make my own, and I could sift through all the jewellery in shops like Accessorise and Topshop for hours (but people tend to drag me away). I just love sparkly, glossy, colourful accessories, beads are what my paradise would be made of. Jewellery making is also really easy to get into. You don’t need that much special equipment to start out with, not like working in clay, lampworking or sewing, you can just concentrate on buying pretty materials. I’m kind of impatient when it comes to having the right things to begin with, so I think jewellery making satisfied that need to get going straight away.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
Picking colour schemes is so much fun, you can be so inventive and match colours you don’t often see together on the high street. Of course searching down the best materials is really fun (but bad for my bank balance) I’m constantly distracted on Etsy because I’m like a magpie with an obsession for bright and shiny things.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?
Toughie can I have two choices? OK...I think we'll let you have two choices!! I would pick a red apple because I just got the most gorgeous Swarovski bracelet given to me and it features a crystal apple. For me Swarovski is really the pinnacle of excellence in classy, grown up jewellery. If I could have a second choice (please) I’d describe my craft as a carrot because it’s a quirky choice and I love my pieces to have a personality. I also love to include unusual materials, like buttons and plastic stars, that people might think only belong in children’s jewellery. I use these items to create Pretty Little Love Objects that any grown up would love to wear to express their individuality. Love your 2 choices...Jodie!!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?
I’d love to be a writer. I dream about it constantly, stop and start, and then return to reading to try to educate myself on how to get better.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
I really want people to start shopping properly. Shopping should not be a chore that you do quickly, buying dull gifts in a slapdash manner. You should enjoy picking out the perfect thing as a present for you or a loved one. If you put a little effort into finding a personal present you will get much more appreciation back, and that little cycle of events will increase the loveliness of the world. What a lovely thought!! So true!

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Try to get some sleep, at some point. It’s easy to get stuck promoting online for hours when you should be recharging your creative batteries. Pick promotional opportunities that are simple and effective so you have plenty of time to give to crafting and having a life.

THANKS, Jodie for a delightful insight into you as a person, and what motivates you to create your fun, colorful jewelry! I really enjoyed having you as a featured artist out here on DZFANTASY, and wish you every success in all your endeavors! Be sure to visit PRETTLY LITTLE LOVE OBJECTS on Etsy....you just could find the right piece of jewelry that could brighten your day!

BLOG

JUST BE CONNECTED A HOME FOR CREATIVE BLOGGERS