De Lavande Handmade Jewelry

Enter to Win Free Bonghi Natura Products

2008-10-13T00:02:00.007-05:00

ENTER TO WIN ... FREE HANDMADE SOAP AND OTHER BATH PRODUCTS.

A must check out shop, and now would be the best time.

Working With Wire ... The New Look !!

2008-09-17T09:14:00.008-05:00

Soon you will be seeing a lot of new items in my shops like the ones shown here. Over the weekend I branched out from my normal beading into something a bit more creative and time consuming, Wire worked jewelry. Though I love many of the beaded necklaces I have done, I needed a change. I have so many ideas in my head it's hard to sit down and do just one but for the last few days a few of those ideas came to life, or so to speak. To start out I'm doing a series of spiral influenced pieces to learn the best way to work with the tools and the best wire to use. I also just love spirals, and so many ways to use them in any piece of jewelry. So keep an eye out I'll have these listed soon.

Contest Winner

2008-08-31T09:19:00.008-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

hondaray6

CONGRATULATIONS! You are the winner of a custom made stone chip bracelet. An email has been sent to you.

Thank You Everyone for entering check back often for more great giveaways and contests.

It's Time For Another Giveaway !!!

2008-08-15T17:26:00.011-05:00

This Giveaway Contest Will Go On For 2 Weeks, With Many Chances To Enter.

What Will You Win? A Custom Made Stone Chip Bracelet. Many Different Stone Chips To Pick From Like The Ones Shown.

Rules ... 1 entry must be a comment to this post with your email and a favorite Item From My Shop on etsy. You will also get more entry's by posting a comment on this post about your favorite item from my shop on icraft. also, Posting a link to this contest from your shop or blog ... but you will have to post that you have done this.

More ways to enter ... 2 entry's by buying from any of these shops DragonGemStash, WYSIWYGbeads, youvegotmaille, or either of my shops on etsy or icraft. Leave a comment letting me know which shop you bought from.

The Prize ... The winner will get to pick the type of stone chips and let me know the length I will create a special design with the chips picked and add a few extra beads.

Stone chips to pick from are ... Hematite, Moonstone, Labardorite, Tigers Eye, Lapis, Smokey Quartz, Blue Topaz, Fluorite, Turquoise, Snowflake obsidian, Please ask about any others I might be able to get some.

Winner Will Be Posted And Contacted On Aug. 31, 2008 Good Luck Everyone !!!

Contest Winner

2008-07-20T12:24:00.002-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

Taleri

Congratulations! Please Contact YouveGotMaille To Work Out The Details.

Thank You Everyone For Joining In And Hope To See You Again Soon For Another Great Giveaway And Shop Feature July 27th (I'm Taking A Week Off To Catch Up On Some Well Overdue Chores ).

This Weeks Feature And Giveaway!

2008-07-14T00:01:00.004-05:00

Getting To Know The Ambitious You've Got Maille

A little about the seller

Well, there are two of us. I am the organizer and general mommish type, Deanna. My 15-year-old son Brandon is also creating things but since he's visiting his dad in Cleveland at the moment, all of his brilliant creations are there with him (so stop back at the end of July to see what he's come up with!)

Hobbies (or just random interests): Oy, where to begin  I'm an animal lover. I am allowed to live in my home by the good graces of 2 dogs, 4 1/2 cats and 1 Senegal parrot. I also love horseback riding and go whenever I can with a good friend of mine. I like music. I play violin, viola and piano, and am attempting to teach myself Irish fiddle and tin whistle. That's not going all that great, though, due to work, family and other obsessions. I'm an obsessive creator, and I tend to go through phases of obsessions with making different things. Some things I dabble with: calligraphy, polymer clay, woodburning, cross stitch, crochet, decoupage, collage, a little drawing, and of course chainmaille and jewelry making. Things I want to explore: Oriental brush painting, wire wrapping, lampwork/glass, stained glass, sewing (mainly costume), metalworking, and I'm sure I'll think of more. I also love hiking. Walking is okay, but if you can get into the woods and connect with nature... I just recently re-started it and forgot how much I'd missed it. Renaissance reenactment. Brandon and I are both extensively involved with the middle school Renaissance club, teaching them dancing, helping make costumes (a little…), and he's been in the Human Chess Match three years running. We also go to as many faires as we can.

Tell me about yourself?
Pretty much just did, my hobbies define me far more than my "work." To pay the bills I type medical records from home, which is great in that it gives me a flexible schedule to spend time with my family and create things. I'm a mom and wife, and my husband is very supportive and likes to brag about my work. And play with it while he's sitting at the computer 

Other etsy shops YouveGotMaille loves:
Delavande, of course. There are SO many maillers I could put here (I'm the leader of Etsy Chainmaillers' Guild street team) but I'm going to just send you to the guild blog to check them all out. I love seeing the different things people do with the same craft.

Other insanely cool stuff:
Merimask Designs - Just.. AMAZING work. Especially the frost dragon mask.
KG Celtic - She's got some gorgeous Celtic and Renaissance circlets, bridal jewelry… I just love all of it
Jewels by Nature - The clockwork/steampunk stuff is crazy cool, I plan on picking up something to add to a chainmaille creation for myself one of these days.
Thyme 2 Dream - Really nifty wire work, again with a Renaissance/fantasy theme. Her ear cuffs are spiffy.
Spooky Kitten Couture - Oh, if only I had a couple of hundred dollars lying around for one of her costumes…
Totus Mel - She has tatted jewelry that's so lacy and pretty… I wants it.
Mindhunting - I linked you to a specific item in their shop there because it's the most mindblowingly gorgeous lampwork I've seen. Make sure you look at everything else, because it's all gorgeous.
The Haunted Hollow Tree - Okay, I can woodburn a little but this is some stunning pyrography.
V Silcox Designs - Painted glassware. Another "when I have a little money that I don't spend on little metal rings and beads" wish list item: one of her candleholders. She works not only with the way the item looks but with the shadows it casts too, which are magnificent.
Created With Joy - Polymer clay canes that make me wish I was had some talent for making canes.
Dragon's Breath - This is the kind of metalsmithing I aspire to do. Some day.
I know that's a lot of favorites. Trust me, I have dozens more, and a list of things (handmade soap, and caramels being some examples) that I want to try when I get a chance.

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy?
About a month.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): At the moment, mostly chainmaille, mostly jewelry. We're working on doing some other cool stuff in chainmaille (I have a neat belt in the works, and I want to do some candle holders decked in anodized aluminum colors. I've run out of rings so this week I'm going to dabble in some wire work while I wait for my order to arrive. Among other things… so many ideas, so little time…
I also have tucked in my head to do some framed illuminated calligraphy quotes, when I get around to it. And I think Brandon might do some woodburning. Oh! And I intend to do a line of "Bearing Arms" -- teddy bears garbed in armor from various periods, some with letter opener swords and whatnot. Just need to find teddy bears that I think will work well. I took a metalsmithing class earlier this year. It's my fervent hope that one of these days I will be able to set up a little metalsmithing studio in the garage and do some more complex work. Fingers crossed.

How did you first pick up your craft?
Two years ago for Christmas I bought Brandon a kit to make a chainmaille dice bag. He left it sitting for two years. I had bought Dylon White's book The Art of Chainmail (highly recommended) and was dabbling around with it several months ago. Brandon saw it on the kitchen table while he was eating breakfast one morning and said "OH!" Light bulb.. sad to say he picks up new weaves far more quickly than I do.

Favorite thing about it:
Brainstorming new designs. And the process itself is relaxing in the way needlework is relaxing.

Any inspirations?
Tons. The galleries on these two websites, which I browse for amusement when I'm supposed to be working. The Ring Lord and M.A.I.L.

SALE

15% off any item over $30 in the store.

CONTEST

YouveGotMaille is offering a winners choice of any $5 or less item in the store free, or $5 off anything in the store (stacks with the sale).

TO ENTER : Go To YouveGotMaille's Shop And Post Your Favorite Item Here On The Blog. The Winner Will Be Posted Sunday July 20th. Good Luck Everyone !!

MORE ITEMS FROM YouveGotMaille ...

This Weeks Shop Feature & Sale!

2008-07-07T00:01:00.003-05:00

Getting To Know The Whimsical ArtsyChaos

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Wendy, Artsy Chaos

Hobbies (or just random interests): Scrapbooking, Traveling, Drawing and Art, Languages, Reading

Tell me about yourself? I've been fascinated with paper and everything paper related since I was little. I love ephemera and save every interesting paper bit I get. I also like to draw on it !

Other etsy shops ArtsyChaos loves ...

Emiscard
seanook
AtelierKanawa
TotusMel
TichelMae

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? Since February 2008

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): Custom paper items for scrapbooking, home and wearables. I make scrapbooking embellishments, unique and fun paper jewelry items and accents for home and life.

How did you first pick up your craft? I got the crafting bug from my mom who can look at anything and make it. I've always made paper crafts. I remember making little paper villages and towns and giving them as gifts as a child. I also remember finding one of my "town" creations stashed under my parents' bed and wondering why it wasn't on display ! LOL

Favorite thing about it: I love working with paper. I love the texture, the color and how I can make it into anything I want.

Any inspirations? I get inspiration from the world around me and many scrapbooking artists like Rhonna Farrar and Elsie Flannigan. I love color and pattern and often look to my teen children's wardrobes for inspiration. My favorite blog to visit is printpattern. More often, though, my head is filled with so many ideas I can't get them all onto paper fast enough.

Pick 3 items to feature:

Out of This World Ribbon ALIEN Tags Embellishments Scrapbooking

Happy Little OWL Charm Tag Pendant Necklace Collage

All Your Heart Hand Drawn Doodle Charm BROOCH Pinback Collage

What makes these so special:

The aliens, they are just fun to make and make everyone smile that looks at them.
The owl necklace because who can resist a cute little owl ?!
The hand drawn brooch because this piece really represents "me" and my style.

SALE
I would be happy to offer 20% off to anyone who mentions this blog article.

MORE ITEMS FROM ArtsyChaos ...

Contest Winner

2008-07-06T00:02:00.004-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ....

quitecontrary1977

Congratz! Please contact Omshanti to work out the details

Be sure to check back monday morning for another great feature.

This Weeks Featured Shop And Contest Giveaway

2008-06-30T00:00:00.004-05:00

Getting to know The Comforting Om Shanti Handcrafts ...

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Kate

Hobbies (or just random interests): I've been a student of history for fifteen years now -- the kind who makes the clothing to see how it's done. It's a lot of fun. :) I also try to get out and hike when it's warm enough, and now that I have a good camera I want to take a lot of pictures!

Tell me about yourself? A seeker and a writer, an herbalist and a maker. Living in beautiful Colorado within sight of the mountains. Mom to three cats and two rats. Trying to escape Walmart Hell.

Other etsy shops Om Shanti loves :
Archeress Arts
Sweet Tarragon
Hunting Heron
LeastLikely2Breed

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? I created my account in January 2008, but didn't start posting things until partway through February. I was scared to, I think; I wanted everything to be perfect! Eventually a couple of friends provoked me into just posting stuff already, and I was off.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): Beaded jewelry, necklaces and bracelets and earrings, as well as rosaries and paternosters (the medieval ancestor to the rosary). All-natural, good-smelling bath and body stuff. I want people to slow down and relax, take care of themselves -- my bath salts, bath teas and milk baths will help with that, I hope. Living in the near-desert I found my lips chapped worse than ever, so out of self-defense I started making lip balms too.

How did you first pick up your craft? For the jewelry, I'd been buying lots of stuff over the years and never got round to making anything with it. Then I started working for a friend who made jewelry, and I'd work on it there when her shop was slow -- I got a lot done! Eventually I ran out of beads and started selling my jewelry so I could buy more. As for the herbal stuff, I was given bath salts a couple of years ago. I hadn't had a bath in ages -- who has the time? But I made the time and it was wonderful, so relaxing, I loved it. Again it took me a while to actually get round to doing anything about it but once I did, I couldn't stop. And then there's the aforementioned lip balm story. Simple survival, that was.

Favorite thing about it? Making people relaxed and happy. Also all the good smells. And playing with pretty colours. Really, it's all about playing with things.

Any inspirations? Most of my jewelry is inspired by music -- each piece is named after a song and I post part of the lyrics in the description. If I'm making something custom, though, I just think about the person I'm making it for. My herbal stuff comes to me in all kinds of ways. Sometimes I get ideas from friends (like Leanna's Favourite Milk Bath). Sometimes I just get out my essential oils and play with them until it smells right.

3 items featured
Leanna's Favorite Milk Bath
Everything Citrus Ever Lip Balm
Beauty of the Rain Necklace

What makes these so special? Leanna's Favourite I first made up for a friend of mine who'e going through a very stressful time in her life. She liked it so much her boyfriend immediately bought her another bottle! So far it's the fastest to go from 'invented' to 'sold'. Plus I just really like lavender and chamomile. Everything Citrus Ever because the name amuses me. And it tastes good. Beauty of the Rain because it's subtle but gorgeous.

SALE

10% off of any purchase (not including shipping) if you mention this blog.

CONTEST

This Weeks Contest Winner Will Get $10.00 Gift Certificate From Om Shanti. With So Many Great Items The Winner Will Have A Hard Time Picking An Item:)

TO ENTER : Just Go To Om Shanti's Shop Find Your Favorite Item And Post The Name Or Link Along With Your Email Address Or Etsy Shop Address.

On Sunday The 6th Of July I Will Post The Winner. Good Luck Everyone !!

MORE ITEMS FROM Om Shanti ...

Contest Winner

2008-06-29T03:39:00.005-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

Reeva

Congratulations! Please contact itreallyaddssomething to work out the detail.

Thank you everyone for joining in and remember to check back every week for a new feature and maybe another giveaway. :) A new feature is posted every Monday Morning.

This Weeks Shop Feature and Giveaway.

2008-06-22T00:08:00.003-05:00

Getting To Know The Delicate Shop It Really Adds Something!

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): My name isAnn, or I go by itreallyaddsomething on the web, some people just call me IRAS.

Hobbies (or just random interests): I love learning and making different crafts which is a given I suppose, but I alsolike: travel (going to Asia in May, I’m so excited!), movies, books, cooking ( I got this killerapple galette recipe, made it twice this week and they’re both gone within a few hours.) , video games (PC and consoles), can eating be a hobby? I love food!!!

Tell me about yourself? I’m a Chinese American gal that currently lives in sunny California with my boyfriend. My mom is a very crafty woman so I think my brother and I got our craftiness from her. I remember I used to make these cute animal masks for myself and my friends when I was in first grade, and when myfamily moved to Taiwan when I was 8, I learned about a lot of great Chinese crafts, like paper carving, Chinese knots, paper lanterns… etc. Some of these we had to learn how to make in art class, but I still enjoy making them nonetheless.

Other etsy shops It Really Adds Something Loves ...
There are too many to choose from, so I’ll just pick a few

I love lizbee’s shop, shemakes beautiful jewelry and I think she is extremely cool as she is the voice of one of my favorite anime, Shin Chan!

papercutsbyjo takes the technique of one of my favorite craft and use it to create more modern and western art! Seeing his art really makes me smile!

mizusugi’s ribbon ball ornaments are simply amazing!

I was only going to list three, but I just have to mention jenngee’s shop. I have never seen coffee corsets before, and hers are so beautiful! I think I’ll have to start drinking coffee now. LOL!

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? I have been on etsy since late February of this year.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): I make handmade silk thread flowers using a very unique Chinese folk art technique that is disappearing as it involves lots of time and patience to slowly wrap silk threads around paper and wires to create the desired shapes. The silk thread should be carefully placed next to the one before it in order to achieve maximum sheen and smoothness. Besides the traditional form of flowers, I am also starting to make my craft into different forms, like butterflies, four leaf clovers, and my most recent design which I haven’t showed it to anyone (as of now) besides my boyfriend and my very first customer is the double hearts. It is kind of difficult to explain what I do, but if you take a look at the last photo of each of my listing, you'll be able to see a little bit of the process.

How did you first pick up your craft? I learned this craft from my grand aunt when I was about 9 years old. She was one of the few people that still teaches this craft so I was able to learn from the best, and I’ve been making these beautiful silk thread wrapped flowers ever since.

Favorite thing about it: I like the fact that it can stand the test of time. Even though it is a traditional art form, it can still be made to have a modern appeal.

Any inspirations? My inspirations comes from a lot of places, nature, TV shows, maybe something I saw while reading a magazine, when I play games… you never know when or where an idea will come to you.

Featured Items:

3 color silk flower brooch
Royal blue flower necklac
Lucky Charm

What makes these so special: I chose these three items as they are a great representation of my work. The brooch is very close to the one I learned to make when I was a kid. I really like the necklace because I came up with this design myself, it was by accident, though; I was holding the little flowers together thinking of what I should do with them, and it hit me: “it looks great just like this!!! Very simple and pretty!”

As for the Lucky charm, believe it or not, that one little four leaf clover took me longer to make than the three flower brooch. The leaves had to be a certain shape and angle otherwise the silk thread will not wrap right, but I still needed it to look like a clover, so it took a lot of trials and errors to make it work. I almost gave up at one point, but I'm glad I didn't cause it's one of my favorite piece.

SALE ...

Anyone who makes a purchase and mentions that they found my store from De Lavande’s blog during the week of the article will receive free shipping.

CONTEST GIVEAWAY ...

This weeks Winner will get a royal blue or silver flower necklace from It Really Adds Something, Winner’s choice.

TO ENTER : Go to It Really Adds Something's shop pick a favorite item and post the link or name here on the blog. Sunday the 29th the winner will be random picked, name posted and contacted. Gook Luck Everyone !

MORE ITEMS FROM IT REALLY ADDS SOMETHING ...

This Weeks Shop Feature

2008-06-15T20:54:00.009-05:00

Getting to know the Inspiring cinnamonspice ...

Name

Kim aka Cinnamon

Gina aka Spice

Hobbies (or just random interests):

Kim - Travel, mostly outside the U.S., reading, crafting with my kids

Gina - refining and expanding our Pillow Kid family, art museums, Chicago history, crafting, learning to play my guitar, and yearning to return to the Carribean seaside.

Tell me about yourself?

Gina - I've been an empty nester for the past several years. I am approaching my 22nd year with the Federal Service. I grew up in the Washington Metropolitan area and relocated to Chicago Illinois in October of 2000. I think that Chicago is a fascinating city. It's got that small town ambiance with a big city flare. Cinnamon & Spice Crafts is a dream come true for me. The foundation of our business is quality, honesty and creativity. I love the fact that my partner and I can critique with open minds for the better of the final product without any hangups.

Kim - I recently left a 15-yr career with the government to stay home with mt two little ones! During this period I've had more time to let the creativity flow and realize a life-long goal of working for myself.

Other etsy shops cinnamonspice loves :

Sincerely.etsy.com ,
xueoriginals.etsy.com,
Sybile.etsy.com,
sweetdreamsdesigns.etsy.com,
muyinmolly's shop,
moonmum's shop,
littleglimpses's shop ,
mommymafia2008,
Nikki’s Nacs,

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy?

We've been on ETSY since January 2008.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?):

We specialize in paper goods, altered art and needlecraft gifts for all occasions. We have a line of multi-ethnic, customizable, crotcheted dolls aka Pillow Kids. Gina's currently working on a smaller version which will be viewable on the blog within the next several weeks. Kim's niche is paper crafting. I began with custom scrapbooks and altered frames, and have expanded to making vintage cards and embellished gift tins.

How did you first pick up your craft?

Kim - I began scrapbooking or "cropping" about 10 years ago. I still remember my first album, a Christmas gift for my boyfriend who is now my husband. I used glue sticks and construction paper, thank goodness my techniqes have evolved!

Gina - with regard to crotcheting my aunt taught me when i was about 7 or 8. From there I just experimented over the years. I've always had an interest in crafts. My grandma used to buy craft kits for us when we were kids. I guess that's where my interest began. The first pillow kid I made was for my daughter when she was about 10 years old. So many people liked them I began to make and recreate them over the years.

Favorite thing about it:
Gina - the flexibility of working your own hours, having the freedom to create, exchange of ideas

Kim - The joy that comes from making a treasured gift for another person! Once, after I designed an album as a gift, the recipient called me and tearfully thanked me for a speciall gift. That's what I live for!

Any inspirations?
Kim - I love the holidays and "baby" related items, so ?I usually draw upon those themes.

Gina - everything I see and do inspires me

SALE !!

"Pillow Kids" we are offering 10% off each mini doll or buy two or more and get free shipping.

MORE ITEMS FROM cinnamonspice ...

Contest Winner

2008-06-15T00:00:00.006-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

BunnyB

Congratulations! BunnyB you may pick 1 item under $20.00 from my shop or get $20.00 off and free shipping on any item in my shop.

http://delavande.etsy.com

Thank you everyone for entering to win, and come back tomorrow for a new blog shop feature.

2008-06-09T00:39:00.007-05:00

Starting today Monday June 9th through Saturday June 14 I am holding a contest for one $20.00 Item from my shop or $20.00 off any item from my shop winners choice.

To enter go to Delavande take a look at my items, find one that you would call a favorite and post the name and/or link to this blog. Along with your favorite item make sure to tell me how to get in contact with you. 2 entries - post here that you have added a link to this contest to your blog. Get a third entry by posting your favorite items from this week’s featured shop under that post FrayBabyBibsandMore .

A name/shop will be picked Sunday the 15 .

Sunday the 15th I will use a random number generator to pick and post the winner of the contest. So don’t forget to check back Sunday to see if you have won... . Best of luck!

Weekly Featured Shop

2008-06-09T00:35:00.000-05:00

Getting to know the Colorful Fray Baby (FrayBabyBibsandMore) ...

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Liz Davis, "mommy"

Hobbies (or just random interests): road trips, photography, blogging, baking, reading

Tell me about yourself? I am a military spouse. My husband is a helicopter pilot in the Army and we just moved from Hawaii to Germany! We have a 2 year old son, who is the inspiration behind a lot of my boy items in my shop.

Other etsy shops FrayBabyBibsandMore loves:
theflashbulb - original sewn art, prints and notecards.
moosethreads - Custom crocheted clothing for infants up to adults.
craftheart - All kinds of miscellaneous crafts.
bethjt - Beth Thompson Jewelry, Fine Art, and More!
bealoo - Fun, Fresh, Art for Kids - Mixed Media Illustration

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? since march 12th of this year

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): i make baby gifts: bib sets, burp cloths, lovies, blankets and gift sets. I also make tote bags of all sizes. I have small pouch bags, tiny totes, purses for little girls, medium totes and large carry all totes. I just started making little boy "stuff holders" - kind of like a tool belt but with more pockets - we can't call it an apron can we? :)

How did you first pick up your craft? Well I grew up watching my mom sew, quilt, smock, you name it - while I was growing up. I have always been interested in it and experimented here and there with the sewing machine. When I was about 9 years old my neighbor taught my how to cross stitch and I loved playing with the embroidery floss - which is why I use it in some of my items I make. I started sewing more when I was pregnant with my son and again when my husband was deployed. This past Christmas I started up again and haven't stopped since!

Favorite thing about it: The process is relaxing and the final result is so fulfilling. I also love that I can be challenged by a project as well, like when a friend asked if I could make totes that matched the pouches I made, I had to figure out the dimensions, where to stitch, where to snip, how to install the straps, etc, etc...I've had numerous requests for aprons so I am going to try to draw up some patterns soon.

Any inspirations? My mom and all other crafters out there. It is amazing what we can make when we put our minds and imaginations to it.

SALE

10% off entire purchase (not including shipping) when you mention DeLavande.

MORE ITEMS FROM FrayBabyBibsandMore ...

Contest WINNER

2008-06-09T00:28:00.002-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

Kari

Congratulations! You win 2 fairy Cards from luluvillage.

Please come back tomorrow for another great giveaway.
DeLavande.etsy.com Enter to win a $20.00 item from my shop!

This Weeks Featured Shop

2008-06-01T23:55:00.005-05:00

Getting to know the lovelydolly Fashion

A little about the Seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Lovelydolly

Hobbies (or just random interests): Fashion

Tell me about yourself? My dream is to become a Fashion Designer

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? Just opened my shop

What exactly do you do (What do you make?): Fashion for Blythe and Pullip Dolls

How did you first pick up your craft? Wanna start my dream even its pretty small

Favorite thing about it: need to be creative

Any inspirations? My dream

MORE ITEMS FROM lovelydolly ...

Weekly Giveaway Enter To Win Contest

2008-06-01T23:54:00.005-05:00

CONTEST GIVEAWAY, ENTER TO WIN ...

luluvilliage has kindly offered 2 fairy princess cards with envelopes to the winner of this weeks Blog Contest, All you need to do to enter is post your favorite item from her shop. Sunday june 8th The winner will be posted. Good Luck all!
*************************************************************

Getting To Know The textured luluvillage ...

My shop is luluvillage, it was named (with the help of my kids) after an imaginary village of LULU people where everyone does what makes them happy and happiness makes the world go round!

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Luluvillage

Hobbies (or just random interests): I love painting, oils are my favorites. I adore glass and smalti, both of which I use to create mosaics. Glass is a fantastic medium, highly underutilized: light travels differently depending upon the specific intensity of color, changing the look and feel of the piece. Smalti is a fantastic handmade glass from Italy, its surface is textured unlike the regular stained glass, therefore it reflects glass unpredictably creating wonderful textures.

Tell me about yourself? I am a collector of colors and textures, whenever I travel I bring some back; I am an artist and writer, with a strong belief that creativity is a flow of energy, which may be blocked but never stopped. I believe that creative expression is to be encouraged and protected. I am a mother of two little people whose boundless creativity is an inspiration for mine.

Other etsy shops luluvillage loves:

I love the flow of expression of Heidi Burton

CozyMoments is a fantastic body shop

and I am moved by the beauty of the stone vessels of the TwoBeans

to name just a few.

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy? I have opened an etsy shop in November 2007, but did not get serious about it until a couple of months ago.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?) As a relative newbie, I am going in several directions: prints of my original artwork, custom mosaics and mixed media items like mirrors, frames and handmade cards.

How did you first pick up your craft? I've always been inclined to do something that involved small object manipulation. However, overtime it's the universal aspect of creativity that attracted me most: I feel that all of us are like the small parts comprising a whole, along the lines of small glass pieces falling into place to form a mosaic image.

Favorite thing about it: Over the years, I feel my work has acquired a quiet soulful aspect to it, that I treasure most. I am less concerned with the final form than with the initial impulse to create: the process of putting something new together makes me feel alive, privy to something new that has not existed until I touched it with my hands.

Any inspirations? Traveling is my well of inspiration: I take hundreds of pictures in an attempt to absorb the feel of the places, their textures, their moods. I am also big on movies- they provide a change in perspective, and, therefore, a new view point.

MORE Items From luluvillage ...

NEW FEATURE TO BE POSTED

2008-05-28T00:22:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the delay it's been a crazy few days and with my internet down and computer on the fritz I have been unable to get this weeks feature shop posted. So I'm going to take this week off and start posting this Sunday. The problems should all be fixed by then.

This Weeks Contest Winner!

2008-05-25T11:00:00.004-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

tjmetz From sunsign6.etsy.com

This Weeks Winner Can Pick An Item Worth Up To $15.00 From Glintbymich. Congradulations!

MAY 23 - JUNE 6 SALE

2008-05-23T13:33:00.006-05:00

ALL ITEMS IN SHOP HAVE BEEN MARKED DOWN 30%, ORDER TOTALS OVER $70.00 GET FREE SHIPPING.

DeLavande.etsy.com

5/18 - 5/25 Feature and Contest Giveaway

2008-05-19T15:03:00.024-05:00

ENTER TO WIN CONTEST ...
Post Your Favorite Item from Glintbymich to enter and on sunday the 25th of May A winner will be picked to pick out an item from Glintbymich's shop worth up to $15.00.

***********************************************************************

Getting To Know The Eclectic Glintbymich

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have):
Mich (or Michamillion - apparently because I say Thanks a million all the time)

Hobbies (or just random interests):
scouring vintage stores and markets, reading on the history of jewelry

Tell me about yourself?
I've just discovered I'm a serious hoarder. Looking through my boxes of travel memorabilia, I realized I have tones of postcards of artworks I've seen in museums all over the world. I never throw things away and I try to make full use of everything. If I can't think of a use for it, I'll keep it until something comes along. Even my jewelry's made from reengineering vintage finds, hence their one of a kind nature! I also have so many clothes that when I had to do an estimate for insurance, the cost came up to $47,000. I know, I have a problem.

Other etsy shops you Glintbymich loves:

flandersfield - Flanders Field Photography - Focusing on Nature

sweetb - Art and Expressive Lettering for Your Unique Needs

labokoff - photography and painting

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy?
About 5 months

What exactly do you make?
vintage inspired jewelry

How did you first pick up your craft?
it started with making unique pieces of jewelry for friends, and everyone's urged me to sell my jewelry so they can buy from their friends!

Favorite thing about it?
I make my own jewelry, so my credit card bill is halved. ( Not really...)

Any inspirations?
Josephine Baker, Marie Antoinette, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly

SALE

This Week Only - buy any item and get a pair of flower earrings free! Glintbymich

MORE ITEMS FROM Glintbymich ...

Ugly Banner Makeover ...

2008-05-18T06:51:00.000-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

annette1533.etsy.com

Congratz on getting a banner makeover. Please contact WildMagic and the two of you can work out the banner details.

Thanks everyone for entering hope to see you tomorrow for a new enter to win and a new shop feature.

Ugly Banner Makeover Contest

2008-05-12T00:01:00.002-05:00

Getting To Know WildMagic Design Studio

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have): Kristen
Hobbies (or just random interests): Showing purebred dogs in AKC dog shows

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy?
I opened up shop the very end of December 2007.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?):
I am a graphic designer and create items for other Etsy shop owners. I do everything from banners to business cards to flyer designs.

Any inspirations?
I love COLOR!

ENTER TO WIN ...

WildMagic Design Studio has offered to makeover one lucky person's banner ... Post your shop link to enter and I will pick the person/shop with the ugliest banner to get their makeover. Winner will be posted Sunday the 18th.

TO ENTER

Post your site, shop, or blog link with the banner you want to enter. It's that easy! ... Best of Luck!!

May 12 - 18 Weekly Shop Feature

2008-05-12T00:00:00.006-05:00

Getting To Know The Classic TexasTesla

A little about the seller

Name (and any aliases you have) : Amber / mommy / Devious Diva
Hobbies (or just random interests) : Sci Fi, piano, reading anything, sketching
Tell me about yourself? I'm a physicist, have 4 great kids and a wonderful SAHD husband.

A little about the Store

How long have you been on etsy?
4 months

What exactly do you do (What do you make?):
Jewelry, mostly semi-precious materials

How did you first pick up your craft?
About a year ago, I saw a "make your own earrings kit" at Joann when looking for birthday projects for my daughter, and was hooked! I mostly made items for myself, but then had the chance to make a few custom orders (including 2 weddings) for family and friends...and from the incredibly positive responses, decided it was time to branch out.

Favorite thing about it:
It's relaxing, and I love coming up with great designs. It's hard not to wear everything I make!

Any inspirations?
All the time - the gorgeous colors of nature here in Oregon are very inspiring, whether trees, ocean, flowers, etc. Sometimes I see a piece in a magazine and think, "wouldn't that be wonderful if you tweaked this, added that, and used this stone?"...then off I go.

SALE : offering 10% off any item $10 or more for this week only (May 12 Through The 18)

Other etsy shops TexasTesla loves :

KieutiePie - such a neat mix of industrial jewelry and cutsy stuff too.

PurpleLicious - I love her headbands, cannot wait to get some!

MORE ITEMS FROM TexasTesla ...

De Lavande Contest Winner

2008-05-11T03:27:00.009-05:00

AND THE WINNER IS ...

lyn21

Lyn21 Can pick either an Item up to $20 from my shop or get $20 off an item from my shop and get free shipping.

Thank you all for entering into the giveaway. Starting Monday May 12 is the Ugly Banner contest, so be sure to come back and enter to win a Shop Banner Makeover. Also A New Featured Shop.

DeLavande - ENTER TO WIN CONTEST GIVEAWAY

2008-05-04T00:35:00.000-05:00

This Week’s Featured Shop 5/4-5/10

2008-05-04T00:00:00.010-05:00

Getting To Know The Fabulous Shop 1+1=ONE

Who is 1+1=One? Also known as designsbyone on etsy? Leo , Heera (her business partner), and Velma Kelly (her dog and store supermodel!). 1+1=One has been open on etsy Since November of 2007, they didn't actually start listing until December, but became more actively involved in February of this year.

Leo loves art, fashion, animals, and is very interested in the new "green" movement. She went to college right after high school where he majored in fashion design. While getting her degree, she adopted her baby (her dog) and was inspired by her to make clothes for dogs. People started noticing them and asking her to make things for their dogs and 1+1=ONE, the clothing line for stylish pups, was born.

What exactly do you do (What do you make?):
Doggie clothing and accessories. I want to maybe start doing collars, harnesses, and other things soon.

How did you first pick up your craft?
I majored in fashion design in college and I applied everything I learned about design, sewing, patternmaking, etc. towards doggie merchandise.

Favorite thing about it:
It makes people smile and keeps puppies warm. Some dogs actually LOVE wearing clothes, I know mine does!

Any inspirations?
My baby, Velma Kelly

Other etsy shops 1+1=ONE Loves:
PAWSINTHESUN - (Cat and dog accessories for your beloved companions!)
AMELIAMAKESART - (Unique Dog Portraits Sculpted out of Wool and More)
ABBADABBABAGS - (Handmade bags)
AUBREYM3810 - (Aubrey Heart~~Handmade Jewelry by Melissa Aubrey)
DAISYWARES - (Hand (Made Vegan Jewelry & Vegan Beauty Products)

and many, many more!!

MORE ITEMS FROM 1+1=ONE

New Shop - A Must See

2008-04-27T22:04:00.009-05:00

I have a friend who has opened up a new shop on Ruby Lane, her items are to die for. She brings such elegance and beauty into all of her work. Shantiearth's Creations A must see shop of fine jewlery. Check out her new shop and post your favorite Item here on my blog to show her our love and support.

ENTER TO WIN FREE SOAP - Open Till May 7th

2008-04-25T11:31:00.008-05:00

If you love handmade natural soap then you will love this giveaway. BONGHI NATURA is giving away $10 to use in her etsy shop and random free bars of soap. The only way to win is to go to her blog and post your favorite Item.

Mother's Day

2008-04-22T14:02:00.010-05:00

I love making Necklaces for my mom she wears a different one everyday, so again this year for Mother's Day she gets yet another necklace. I found this bead on etsy from one of my favorite Glass Lampwork Bead makers Naos (if you see her bead work you have to act fast, as soon as she gets one posted it's gone). The necklace was designed around this focal bead. I paired it with Carnelian Agate, Thai Jade, Brown Goldstone, Colored Shell Coins, Copper and Bone spacers, with a hint of silver.

It's Been Crazy

2008-04-12T16:23:00.005-05:00

The last few months have had me so busy I have been unable to keep up with the blog but now that things have slowed I'll be right back to posting again.

Month of February Featured Shop

2008-02-29T01:44:00.002-06:00

margaretsWorld - funky art and sculpture

http://www.margaretsworld.etsy.com/argaretsWorld.etsy.com

"My sculptures are about making a word, a phrase, a part of a song, or my thoughts into something tangible using discarded pieces of wood as well as designed elements."

Margaret has been a working artist for many years. As a Tampa, Florida native, she has studied at Hillsborough Community College, University of South Florida and Penland School of Crafts in Penland, North Carolina.

Her work has been described as whimsical wooden construction, pleasing to the eye and open to varying interpretations and is in collections in Russia, Japan, Canada, South America, and the United States.

"There are times when I will tell my story with a single sculpture and other times there will be a series of work all along the same line of thought.Lately, I find it hard to restrict myself to one medium and will often use two-dimensional material, such as canvas or water color paper to express my thoughts in a collage.

I construct my art from found, recycled or otherwise discarded things." More information about Margaret can be found on her website at http://www.margaretconte.com/.

ITEMS FROM margaretsWorld ...

Week of 2/24 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-02-24T10:05:00.006-06:00

DorsetHillBeads ...
www.dorsethillbeads.etsy.com

Hi! My name is Eileen, I live in a suburb of Maryland with my wonderful husband, 2 sons and our bulldog. I love creating one-of-kind lampwork beads and being able to share them with people like you. I have found my artistic passion.

I am mostly self taught but have been fortunate enough to have taken a few classes from artists that I consider to be highly regarded in the lampwork world. My beads are made with soft glass such as Morette/Effetre, ASK, Lauscha and others. After each bead is created I tuck them into my kiln for a good night sleep so they will wake up sturdy and strong to last a lifetime...

More Itmes From DorsetHillBeads ...

Week of 2/10 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-02-10T03:03:00.011-06:00

AussieWoodcraft ...

www.aussiewoodcraft.etsy.com
www.aussiewoodcraft.com

We are a small family business producing handmade, designer home wares from rare exotic and various selected timbers. Our items are specially designed and beautifully handcrafted to add ambience to your homes, office, motels, restaurant etc. Our range includes from classical, contemporary to modern vogue living. We constantly strive to achieve new ideas and fresh design concepts, researching and sourcing for the best methods to utilize our timbers avoiding wastage. Our resource of solid Australian timber and other exotic timber from around the pacific regions gives this highly skilled artisan a flare of design and creativity.
We at Aussie Woodcraft Design, have value in respecting our nature’s gift of life---forest trees. Therefore, we use timber from growth for harvest or rare species found to be wasting away. Bob also uses very old recycled timber rescued from warehouses, tree loppers and roadside!!!.
Our products seem to have second chance in life when they find good caring homes to treasure and admire our creations forever.
Our mission is product quality and Customer Satisfaction. We have great pride to be unique.

MORE ITEMS FROM AussieWoodcraft ...

Week Of 2/3 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-02-03T02:14:00.000-06:00

crazytimescandles
www.crazytimescandles.etsy.com

We are a husband and wife team who enjoy working together to share our love for our hobby with others. All of our items are handmade by us in our home in Appleton, WI. We have been making candles for around 4 years now and in business since December 2006.

Custom orders (favors, gift baskets, etc.) are welcome. We also offer wholesale.

More Items From crazytimescandles ...

Month of January Featured Shop

2008-01-30T10:50:00.000-06:00

Pix4Kix ...
www.Pix4Kix.etsy.com

What is your craft?
The wonderful world of photography

How did you get started?
I started when my parents gave me my first camera at 10 years old

What inspires you?
My love for taking pictures is spurred on by my fiance' and his enthusiasm in seeing the finished project, as well as seeing the delight in others' faces when they see the finished product. Because of these two things I am always on the hunt for my next "amazing picture!" Taking pictures of the people I love(including my puppy) is truly where my heart is at, but Nature runs a close second. It is my hope that, with photography, I can bring a little smile to anyones day. A picture lasts forever!

What types of techniques do you use?
whatever it takes:)

Out of all your work which is your favorite and why?
My hummingbird is by far my favorite. I love the detail that was captured, and the virtual once in a life time shot that I got of the perfect pose, and the surrounding garden area.

MORE ITEMS FROM Pix4Kix ...

Week Of 1/27 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-01-27T06:01:00.000-06:00

Flanders Field Photography - Focusing on Nature

www.flandersfield.etsy.com

Me: Jenny Flanders Estep. Recovering engineer and mother of two rowdy little boys, currently attempting to reconnect with my creative side through photography.

My camera: A tool that helps me better appreciate the world around me, then show others what I see. Often it surprises me by capturing something about a scene that I missed with my naked eye. Sometimes these details "ruin" a shot, but more often they make it worth sharing.

My photos: I do very little editing of my photos (with the exception of occasionally removing distracting specks of dirt from otherwise perfect blossoms), so in most cases, what you see is what I took! Any major editing is noted in the item description.

File sizes have been compacted for posting, so all are much higher in resolution than they appear here. Prints are archival quality. In addition to the 8x10 size listed, most of my images are available in 4x6, 5x7, 11x14, 16x20, and 20x30 sizes, as well as black and white or sepia. I also can offer various matting/framing options or canvas gallery wraps (all performed by a third party). Please contact me to discuss any questions or special requests you might have.

OTHER ITEMS FROM FLANDERSFIELD ...

Week Of 1/20 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-01-20T02:38:00.000-06:00

BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES REBORN NURSERY
www.beautifulmemories.etsy.com

"I have been reborning for several years and it still excites me each time I transform a doll into a Reborn. To see the doll come to "life" never ceases to amaze me, even after all this time. It isn't easy to part with my little dumplings, but knowing they are being adopted by someone who will appreciate and love them, makes it easier."

"I also have a shop featuring my polymer clay creations at www.Mydesigncollectibles.etsy.com"

WHAT IS REBORNING?

"Reborning is the art of transforming a plain, vinyl doll into a beautiful collectible. Their complexions are accomplished with Genesis non-toxic, heat-set paints, applied in several layers to achieve a life-like skin tone. Open-eyed babies get new, realistic eyes. Each baby has either hand-rooted mohair or a high quality mohair wig. They are weighted with glass beads, for a real-baby feel, and dressed in actual baby clothes or clothes made especially for them."

MORE ITEMS FROM BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES ...

Week Of 1/13 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-01-13T17:24:00.000-06:00

Puppetmaster ...

puppetmaster.etsy.com

"In my store you will find Various jewelry items, such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings-all hand-made, of course. You will also find that I specialize in Dream Catchers, Medicine Wheels, Prayer Sticks, Dance Sticks, Talking Sticks, Prayer Feathers, Prayer Fans, and any combination of the above stated items. You will not find anything like my pieces anywhere on Etsy--or the web, for that matter. Nor will you find the same looking thing over and over. I'm not into mass-producing, though I may make Limited Edition lines from time to time. All of my pieces are One-of-a-kind, and different from anything else you'll see anywhere else. I put a lot of time, effort, thought, and love into every piece I create-from the first inspiration, to the final creation. Such efforts brings forth quality and artistry that is second to none. I take my work very seriously, and I love what I do. I always endeavor to represent the beauty of Nature and Spirit in every piece I make.

Just about everything you see here is made from found items in nature, and many salvaged items that would have ended up in a landfill somewhere. It never ceases to amaze me what people get rid of-things that are perfectly able to be re-purposed into something else. I'm always trying to recycle and re-use things to come up with unique creations. You'll never know what I'll come up with next, so keep stopping by and checking out what I have...It just may be exactly what you were looking for."

More Items From Puppertmaster ...

Week of 1/6 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2008-01-06T11:34:00.000-06:00

LAVENDERDRAGONHERBS ...
www.LAVENDERDRAGONHERBS.etsy.com

" I am a 47 Yr Old Single Mother,Disabled, Full Time College Student, Living my Life Long Dream, to make All Natural Products from Mother Earth. I got tired of going to buy "All Natural" Products for my skin, Hair and Health, only to find them full of Horrible Chemicals!

I have been using and working with herbs for 15 years, and love every batch I make! I am taking Herbal courses and adding to my knowledge everyday.

I believe in Honesty and that the Customer comes First! I treat people the way I would like to be treated.
That is why this Little Business is so important to me. I want to teach people the goodness and healthyness of herbs, and all of the wonderous qualities that herbs have, their healing powers.

All my products are made in small batches at the time of order, to ensure only the freshest products you can buy. I only use the Purest EO's, and Fragrance Oils, or I will make Unscented at your request. And I only use Natural Preservatives!
I only use the Freshest Ethically Wild Harvested and or Organically Grown Herbs, from My Gardens, The Forests, and The Sea in my Products, NO Warehouse Herbs Here! No Chemicals or Animal Products used.
I make sure All of my customers know all the facts before buying My Herbs and My Herbal products! "

MORE ITEMS FROM LAVENDERDRAGONHERBS ...

Month of Decamber Featured Shop

2007-12-23T00:02:00.000-06:00

De Lavande Hand Crafts ...

How did you get started?
I was Born and raised in Traverse City, Michigan but a few years back I moved to Cookeville, Tennessee where I finished College. My way of getting away from all the stress was to sit back on the couch pop in a movie and bead necklaces until I passed out. To me this was heaven. I mostly made necklaces for my mom and me to wear but my friends would ask if I would make them something special for them. Thats when it started so many people, some I didn't know where asking if I had any necklaces they could buy for a gift to a loved one.

How long does it take to make a necklace?
Each necklace will take me about 3-4 hours to finish, thats from designing it and going though all my beads to find the perfect ones. I take my time and great care so that the Necklace is a one of a kind with all the finest beads. This is what I love and I hope you love them too.

What is your favorite type of bead?
I love working with handmade Lampwork beads, you never get 2 that look alike. I try to support small shops that hand make their own beads. That way I know I'm getting something beautiful and in return i know I can really bring out that bead and really show it off.

What other types of materials do you use?
I use a lot of Glass beads such as Czech Glass, Hand blown Glass, Dichroic Glass, and Other hand Made Glass Beads. I also use true stone beads, gem stones, bone, silver, gold, plated metal beads, and seed beads or different kinds as fillers. I buy my beads by the string or I hand pick each from a bin at a bead shop. I try to find ones with less flaws and bright color. I take my time when picking out beads if i don't approve I don't want to sell it.

Out of all your necklaces which is your favorite? Why?

Out of all all the Necklaces I have made their are two that will be hard to part with. One because I can't find the beads that I made it with anywhere, and the other is because the arrow is handmade by my father using an old Native American way of flint knapping.

MORE ITEMS FROM DE LAVANDE ...

Week of 12/23 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2007-12-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

Patereeves
Nature's Treasures ...

www.patereeves.etsy.com

I am a self taught artist and enjoy trying all types of artistic endeavors. My shop reflects the ones I truly love doing. I moved to Arkansas about 17 years ago from Iowa. I grew up on a farm and have always enjoyed the outdoors and nature. I have two daughters and one son and have been married for 33 years.I enjoy gardening,herbs and hiking around the 70 acres we live on.

I have designed and made everything in my shop, with the exception of the vintage items! I am not quite that old! LOL! I use as many natural materials as possible in my creations. I use parts of unloved or vintage jewelry when possible. I am inspired by nature and all her beauty.

MORE ITEMS FROM Patereeves

Week of 12/16 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2007-12-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

Naos Glass - Handmade Art Beads by Amber Van Meter

www.Na0sGlass.etsy.com

visit my website at www.naosglass.com!

My name is Amber Van Meter. I have created high-quality artisan (lampwork) beads for over six years now. I specialize in the use of powdered enamels and silver with glass. I also have over 12 years of experience in jewelry design and silver work. You may have seen my artisan beads on eBay, WetCanvas, BeadArtists.org, or Lampwork Etc. My art is also listed on my website - Naosglass.com. My beads are handmade by me in my garage studio. They are thoroughly inspected for flaws or defects. I properly kiln-anneal them to reduce the possibility of breakage due to internal stress. The beads are clean and ready for your use as soon as you receive them. Most importantly, all of this means my beads are not mass-produced and are of the highest quality I can achieve.

OTHER ITEMS FROM Naos Glass ...

Week of 12/9 Top Picked Favorite Shop

2007-12-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

SHANTIEARTH'S CREATIONS ...
www.shantiearth.etsy.com

" My passion is my art and spirituality. A flower child of the sixties, I grew up in Greenwich Village in a family of eccentric artsts. I have lived all over this beautiful country, travelled abroad and consider The Metropolitan Museum of Art my second home, Van Gogh one of my Uncles, and Frida Kahlo my favorite Aunt.

My life has, and continues to be an adventure of discovery and appreciation of all the beauty this amazing world has to offer. "

OTHER ITEMS FROM SHANTIEARTH ...