ACE Team

Featured seller - DreamrKate

2009-09-23T21:48:00.004-04:00

We are proud to have DreamrKate as our featured seller this week. Kate is from Modesto, CA and has been a member on Etsy since 2006 and started selling late last year.

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
I don’t know that any one thing is my specialty. I do what I love and sometimes that’s sewing, sometimes painting, and at the moment it’s pottery or ceramics, whichever you like to call it. I first put my hands in clay when I took a class when I was pregnant with my now 26-year old son. I didn’t have access to work with clay again until maybe 6 or 7 years ago. I took ceramics classes at the local junior college, then another couple of independent study classes and just found myself drawn to having a lump of clay in my hand almost all the time, just fiddling with it until it morphed into something I really like. Sometimes I start with an idea but I found that even though I sit down to make something specific, it doesn’t always turn out that way. More often than not the piece morphes into something totally different. For instance, I really wanted to make a bird cookie jar, a nice big fat one – well it turned into a big fat round pot with a branch across the top full of birds. I decided that it was a really cool kind of “frog” – beautiful with flowers, and the branch serves to hold them up, but also looks lovely with nothing in it.

Pick one item you have created and provide link either from your shop. My funny ‘bird boxes’ are my newest fun thing.
What inspired the “birth” of this item?
Who knows? I love birds, and I love funky. And I really like random things put together. I’m a bit of a pack rat and I love containers to keep my little treasury of tiny paper clips, nails, screws, or bobby pins, you know, things that need to be corralled.

Does this item have any personal significance to you?
I love birds. I used to tell one of my sons that all the birds were his – yes, all of them. Of course he was three, but still what an awesome concept – to think that all the birds in the world are yours, even for just a little time.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
I usually wake up with an idea and can’t wait to start playing around with it. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s a clay thing, wood or when I’m in sewing mode, even my patches. I have the basic idea in my head and I just sort of go for it. I mean, there is no wrong way to create art, right? They start out a little bit crude, but as soon as they start looking “like” something, it’s fascinating to watch the personality come out.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item. Hmmm… a typical work day…. I’m not sure that I’ve actually hit a “typical” work day yet. I probably start out like most everyone else, with coffee and go through the email, grab toast or something and pack things up that need to be shipped or get started with a lump of clay. It’s not a hard and fast process and when I get busier I’ll have to be more organized, but for now I’m just sort of still getting used to not punching a clock. I can seriously go the whole day lost in just trying to make an idea I had, for instance, I made a very small ceramic box and wanted a whole branch of birds going through the roof, so I did that, but it took forever and the birds had to be so small and so did the branch, and then I broke it a couple of times so I had to start over, but even though it was tedious, I liked the idea of it, and it’s a tiny treasure. I don’t really want to have things that people can just pump out, I’d like to know that someone put some real work into something that I want to buy or collect so I want to do the same thing. I can work well into the night too, if I’ve gotten distracted during the day by friends or something. It’s nice and quiet and if I’m wide awake, what’s better than doing something you love to do?

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
As far as clay work goes, I started making bowls and some small dishes, some houses, and when I’m looking at other ceramicists I realize what I can do and what I can’t do. I’ve seen absolutely amazing work on Etsy. There are people who do bowls or vessels so very much better than I do, so I’ll leave that to them and just buy their work, but I like to do freeform kind of things, like my birds for instance, and I think they get better as I go. I certainly hope so anyway. What I really love is that with art, whether it’s clay, fabric, or wood, you can really play around with your ideas and just see what comes of it. I’ve got so many more things that are going to come to my shop!
Please visit DreamrKate and check out many more of her fantastic creations!

Feature Friday 09/04/09

2009-09-03T23:20:00.008-04:00

We know that all the chilly weather NC has had lately is due to hurricanes and tropical depressions, but this past week's weather been a nice change from the dog days of summer. Don't you love waking up to fall-like crispness in the air?
These items from some of our team members just make you want to rush head long into a leaf pile.

Speaking of head long, how about this cute bit of head gear sass? Perfect for those days when the fall-like crispness is in the air, but not quite cold enough for full on head coverage.
Crocheted Chenille Skullcap in Green Confetti.

The colors used in this pretty print evoke that fall feeling. Print of an original mixed media painting by Deborah Dee.

And while you are wearing your new sassy skullcap, why not make out your grocery list on this cute little post it note holder by PamperedPapier?

Vote in our Monthly Team Challenge!

2009-08-30T08:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome to our second monthly challenge project! ACE team members were invited to make sunshine themed project. The winner will be whoever gets the most votes!

Check out the projects and vote for your favorite using the POLL located in the right sidebar. Voting will close on Thursday September 3, 2009.

Here are the candidates:

Zip-adee-do-da Day - art print by DeborahDee

Fun Yellow Beaded Crocheted Necklace by MBSignatureDesigns

Scotty Dog Bank (plays Over The Rainbow) by McCoyToys

Summer Buttercup Guest Book by UberArt

Summer Sunflowers Drawstring Purse by Zellbell

Feature Friday 8/28/09

2009-08-28T10:05:00.006-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Wooden Climbing Bear by McCoyToys

Lime Green Glass Bead Necklace by MBsignaturedesigns

Patriotic Placemat Purse by mychelle

Feature Friday 08/21/09

2009-08-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Pistachio Crocheted Dishcloth by laksawareWho said doing dishes is a chore? It certainly isn't with this eco-chic pistachio dishcloth by laksaware! Crocheted from 100% cotton yarn, this kitchen must-have is a great alternative to germy sponges and endless paper towels. Measures approximately 6.5 inches (16.5cm) square and is machine washable.

Oriel, The Little Owl by agreenelephantThis colorful little owl by agreenelephant is too adorable to pass up! Oriel (from the French origin, meaning Bird) is a pretty little stuffed owl made from yellow cotton/pink polka dot fabric, with cotton fabric by Michael Miller for her cute little wings. She has green felt eyes with black buttons and stands about 5 inches tall on her orange felt feet. She would make a great gift for back-to-school, or just to tell someone they're loved.

Under The Sea Mini Notepad Set by PamperedPapierIt's not Fall yet! Celebrate the warm sunny days of Summer with this colorful mini notepad set by PamperedPapier. Each 4 in x 2 1/2 in notepad features 40 pages of blank white paper - the perfect size to keep in your car or purse to jot down a quick note! These little notepads would also be a great birthday party favor, or as a little Thank You to someone who let you use their beach house this summer!

Feature Friday 08/14/09

2009-08-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

This lovely bag is bright and cheerful with Deborah's own artwork and pretty pink ribbon to add a special spark! It would be the perfect gift for a little one starting school or someone continuing their education.

Doesn't this look good enough to eat? Children will love these cute little lunchables from Alicia at LittleMissSewNSew. The set even has a chocolate bar that comes out of its wrapper! How sweet!

This quilt is so luxurious and soft, you will want to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea. Karol used fabrics from designer Phillip Jacobs in purples, yellows and blue. The colors go great together and would look amazing draped over a comfy chair.

July Monthly Challenge Winner

2009-08-07T20:57:00.008-04:00

Congratulations to our 4th of July themed contest winner, Elise of inthelightglassworks. Elise's lovely hand blown glass globe won 40% of the vote.

This globe is great for Christmas or everyday beauty around your house. There is a mixture of colors with dominant red and blues in the swirl. The globe measures 3 inches in diameter.

Each piece of Elise's glass is hand-blown in her studio in Asheville, NC. She enjoys creating her own original designs and color combinations and loves to share her playful creations with others.

Our first runner-up with 33% of the vote was the Patriotic Plush Pear by agreenelephant. Perfect for your mantle, shelf, counter or window sill, plush pear in white cotton with a blue felt leaf and red felt stem. Firmly stuffed with polyfil. Measures appx 4" tall without stem.

Coming in next with 20% of the vote was the
Jacob's Ladder Toy by McCoyToys.
Jacob's Ladder is one of the oldest folk toys that we have history of & remains a fascination to children of all ages! There are a few mystical/magical tricks that can be done with this toy!

A big thanks to all of you who joined in and voted. We really enjoyed sharing our creations with you. Be sure to join us next month for August's team challenge, and please, let us know if you have any suggestions for themes that you would like to see us try.

Feature Friday 08/07/09

2009-08-07T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

"How Do You Do" notes by Ennaneve
These note cards would make great ice breakers for parents to give to teachers on that first day of school. Believe it or not, teachers remember this sort of thing. These come in sets of 5 with coordinating envelopes. They measure 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches and are made out of 100% recycled green grocer paper. Plenty of room to write an introduction and a personal note.

Puzzled Messenger- Word Search by ACAmour
The wheels on the bus go round and round and the ride on the bus all through town can be long! A neat way to carry school stuff and pass the time with this Puzzled Messenger Word Search messenger bag. It even comes with a washable marker and the answer key. The bag measures 15"w x 11"h x 3.5 drop, 2 outside pockets and one inside zippered pocket.

Chubby Mean Green Eco Friendly Pouch by Whitehope Designs
This 6 x 4 "monster" pillow with a pocket was designed to hold the little things - you know, the ones that always end up in the bottom of your bag? Like for instance LUNCH MONEY! Great to put in a backpack, then your child always knows where to find it or for notes to and from the teacher, not to mention, your child will always have a friend along for the ride.

Fotojo

2009-08-02T22:15:00.005-04:00

This week we have Jo of fotojo.etsy.com. Jo has been photographing people, places and things for about 20 years and is based in Savannah GA. She has been selling on Etsy for a year.

How did you choose your shop name?
Brain storming with family, fotojo won!

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
Photography is my specialty, I received at camera for Christmas one year and fell in love. I seemed to have a gift for it. So family and friends were soon asking me to do their photos.

What inspired the “birth” of this item?
The Cardinal himself.

Does this item have any personal significance to you (ie-I’m passionate about bunnies, or I just love trees and photograph every interesting one I see…)?
I enjoy watching / feeding the birds, this was taken in my backyard. I have bird sanctuary so to speak, everything a bird needs to live. LOL

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
Wow, that’s a hard one. When you see the thing or person and there is a leap inside and you know it’s a got shot, then loading up or printing the photo and seeing that you were right and it’s a really great shot. As a photographer you will take many shots before you get that great “one.”

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.

I up load my photos and began sorting through them looking for that perfect shot. In other words pictures that do not need Photoshop touch’s, but is great just as it is. There is nothing wrong with using photoshop and I do use it, but I get excited when I get the prefect shot on my own.

Check out Fotojo's Etsy shop or www.shopfotojo.com for more awesome work from Jo!

Voting Time Again!

2009-07-27T19:54:00.005-04:00

Welcome to our second monthly challenge project! ACE team members were invited to make a red, white, and blue 4th of July or summer themed project. The winner will be whoever gets the most votes!

Check out the projects and vote for your favorite using the POLL located in the right sidebar. Voting will close on Friday July 31.

Here are the candidates:

Patriotic Plush Pear by agreenelephant

Fireworks - Hand Blown Glass Globe by inthelightglassworks

Jacob's Ladder by McCoyToys

Grace Foldover Clutch in Quilted Navy by prettylittlepearl

Steamer Trunk Travel Journal by UberArt

Red Bandana Quilted Hobo Purse by zellbell

KOALA Caddie™ Yarn Craft Apron

2009-07-20T22:49:00.005-04:00

This week's featured artist is Mary of Koala Caddie. Mary is based in Onset, Massachusetts, at the beginning of Cape Cod and she has been selling on Etsy since mid-March 2009.

How did you choose your shop name?

I named my shop for my creation, the KOALA Caddie Yarn Craft Apron. I designed this apron/tote to offer yarn lovers a smarter way to knit and crochet. The name combines the form of the marsupial koala with the function of a golfer’s caddie.

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?

My favorite craft is crocheting. However my idea for the KOALA Caddie calls on the sewing skills I learned from my mother. Using the finest materials and working with care on a useful product bring me satisfaction and joy. This idea is a gift and I am very grateful for it. Bottom line, though, it’s all about the fabric!

What inspired the “birth” of this item?

The arrival of my grandchildren saw a resurgence in my crocheting. After a while I had a list of things that annoyed me: interruptions, fuzz on my clothes, pet fur in my work, early rows fuzzing from friction, and plastic bags holding skeins of expensive yarn. Other things made me cringe: a project falling from a lap onto the floor; a shedding pug heading towards a work in progress; a child’s sweater pulled from a plastic bag in a germ-laden waiting room. I said to myself, “There has GOT to be a better way!” I developed the KOALA Caddie to offer just that: a new and better way to knit and crochet.

Does this item have any personal significance to you?

This KOALA Caddie is made from fabric designed by Kaffe Fassett for Westminster Fabric. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Annual Meeting of the Greater Boston Knitting Guild in May. I presented him with a Caddie made from one of his wonderful fabrics, and he kindly autographed another that I will treasure. I have a post about this event in my blog at www.koalacaddie.com.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?

I have to be honest – I LOVE choosing the fabric and selecting the perfect coordinating satin, snaps, and cordlocks. I get a mental glimpse of the final product and then I’m just “itching” to get started on it.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.

I am an early riser. After coffee I make the Caddies I’ve chosen for that day. There are about a dozen steps in the process. I make each one from start to finish and try to make at least two each day. In addition to sewing, I mail new orders, prepare for demos, and update my shop or blog. I love setting my own schedule and agenda. I always check my Etsy favorites for new fabric listings and I read the Storque faithfully, leave comments, and convo other sellers.

The first yarn craft apron I made looked like something Florence Nightingale might have worn during the Crimean War. It was about 3 times the size of the current Caddie and even had a bib. I was using buttons and elastic loops where I now have fabric tabs with snap closures. I have streamlined and simplified my design while adding touches that enhance its utility and versatility. I’m sure this process will continue and I’m excited to see where the path will lead. Thanks so much for the opportunity to share my KOALA Caddie Yarn Craft Apron with your Etsy Team.

CONGRATULATIONS to Mary for winning the GRAND PRIZE of the Cultured Expressions 2009 Fabric Challenge!
See her winning entry here : http://www.culturedexpressions.com/upload/challenge_winners.pdf
Love it? Contact her and she can make you one!

Feature Friday 07/17/09

2009-07-17T00:01:00.003-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Custom handmade cold process felt soap by Jazzturtle.

Summer sun headband by ebspider.

Sapphire water butterfly earrings by kingfishercrafts.

Feature Friday 07/10/09

2009-07-10T00:01:00.003-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Sturdy, Lightweight and Ultra-Feminine. This Paper Bangle from newfangled is the perfect addition to any outfit!

Whether you are sitting by the ocean or sipping a glass of lemonade, this Starfish Glass Pendant from denimnotes is sure to get you in the mood for summer!

While you are sipping that lemonade, record the events of your summer in this sweet Raspberry Lemonade Journal from UberArt.

A big tanks to Gretchen of prettylittlepearl for writing this feature! Be sure to check out her lovely sewn items like this fold-over clutch in Chocolate Garden Maze.

Favorably Fashioned - handcrafted paper treasures

2009-07-08T14:36:00.004-04:00

This week's featured artist is Michele of favorablyfashioned.etsy.com . Michele is based near Seattle in Washington. She has been actively selling on Etsy since April 2009.

How did you choose your shop name?
It is part of a lyric from one of my favorite songs

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
Paper! I love crafting designer prints and trying my hand at graphic design. I love being able to combine so many beautiful things!

What inspired the “birth” of this item?Custom mini cards! They were actually a special request from Angela at TheChartreuseRoom.etsy.com - I love they way they turned out, and I've sold several others since then!

Does this item have any personal significance to you?
I'm obessed with kraft cardstock, the warm color & texture, and I love the fact that its recylced! plus, I adore all things mini!

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
Working with my client to get the perfect layout and sending the order off, beautifully packaged.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.
Most of my work is on custom projects - with lots of correspondance! it often takes dozens of emails back and forth to come to a final design. Then I maximize my printable area and get to trimming indidivual pieces. Note card sets are fun too, I love finding new color and design combos.

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?

My first sale was a 2"x2" thank you tag, the mini card can be a tag as well.
I've sold several different variations, but the process has remained pretty consistant. I love being able to customized a general idea to fit each client.

Check out her shop for more gorgeous paper works or follow her on twitter!

Also, mention this post for 10% off all orders PLUS free shipping till July 31.
Just put "ACE blog" in message to seller during checkout or contact favorablyfashioned.etsy.com before placing your order!

June Monthly Challenge Winner

2009-07-03T03:40:00.014-04:00

Congratulations to our beach themed contest winner, Karol of karolsvintageart! Karol's lovely art quilt won 32% of the vote.

The quilt was made from Karol's original design and embellished with a beautiful multi colored thread and free motion quilting to highlight the motion of the piece.Karol has been quilting for over 15 years and her one of a kind collectible quilts show the care and creativity that go into each of her designs.

Our first runner-up with 16% of the vote was the Boat Pull Toy and Puzzle by McCoyToys. The McCoys have been making hand-crafted toys, games & puzzles for over 12 years & use wood & paint that are "lead-free" & safe for children.

Coming in close behind with 14% of the vote was the Navy Linen Zippered Clutch/Purse by AGreenElephant. Cathy offers a variety of handmade goodies for you, your home, and your family.

A big thanks to all of you who joined in and voted. We really enjoyed sharing our creations with you. Be sure to join us next month for July's team challenge, and please, let us know if you have any suggestions for themes that you would like to see us try.

Babyjewels Unique Custom Rubber Stamps

2009-07-01T22:40:00.003-04:00

This week's featured artist is Cat of Babyjewels Designs http://www.babyjewels.etsy.com. Cat is from New England and has been selling on Etsy since October 2006.

How did you choose your shop name?
The shop name came from my previous blogging name, semi based on my cat Jewels and that I was making baby jewelry at the time.

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
My specialty on Etsy evolved over the years to what it is now.
I started selling jewelry, which I had also been selling to local boutiques. Concurrently, I was also working as a graphic designer and started selling graphic design here. I did well, but longed for something that I could get a little more mileage out of my illustrations. With graphic design you sell something you absolutely love and that's it. It's never to be repeated as it's a custom item to represent someone's business. I really wanted to find something where I could not only provide custom work but get a bit more life out of designs. I absolutely love coming up with ideas
for stamps as well as fulfilling custom requests.

What inspired the “birth” of this item? One of my favorite designs is the tandem bike with the license plate for customer info.
It was a custom request that I fell in love with. It's a great seller and I love knowing it's been part of a few brides' big days, from being used on invitations to favor bags.

Does this item have any personal significance to you ?

I love the tandem bike because it represents an illustration that is outside my comfort zone. It tends to draw whimsically and it needed to be more a technical illustration. I desperately needed an example of a tandem bike so ended up taking a photo of a bike into photoshop and mocking it up as a tandem. Then drawing it in vector from my frankenstein example.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
I really love trying to come up with stamps I haven't seen anywhere else.
Interesting illustrations that then have interesting ways to present the custom wording.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item

I really work around the kids. Mornings I answer convos and emails, afternoons I design any orders or tend to the shop, and evenings are more design work and packaging. The bulk of my work is done in the evenings when my husband comes home and takes over.

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process?

There has been evolution in design, fine tuning stamp sizing, text sizes and rethinking how a stamp designed for wood handle will translate to a self inking should the customer want that style. I've also rethought and refined packaging a few times. You definitely want cute packaging, but I strive to find ways to keep it cute and keep costs down.

Check out her shop for more fun designs and great ways for you to use them!

Vote for the best Beach themed project!

2009-06-26T23:21:00.000-04:00

Welcome to our first monthly challenge project! ACE Team members were invited to make a themed project using the phrase "Life's A Beach". The winner will be whoever gets the most votes!

Check out the projects and vote for your favorite using the POLL located in the right sidebar. Voting will close on Tuesday, June 30.

Here are the candidates:

Compass Rose and Anchors Nautical Theme Purse by ZellBell

Shells By The Seashore by UberArt

After Sun Care by tgurleybathandbody

Under The Sea Mini Notepad Set by PamperedPapier

Boat Pull Toy and Puzzle by McCoyToys

Summer Flip Flops Kitchen/Dish Scrubber by Laksaware

It's Raining Art Quilt by KarolsVintageArt

Sand And Sea Handspun Striping Corespun Art Yarn by Jazzturtle

Beach Bag Personalized Note Set by DeborahDee

Navy Linen Zippered Clutch/Purse by AGreenElephant

Feature Friday 06/26/09

2009-06-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Wedding season is here! How about a witty personalized cross-stitched wedding card by SpawnStudio?

Cute and stylish make-up bag from ACAmour.

Be prepared for life's little emergencies with an All Better Bag from ZellBellKids.

A big tanks to Bernie of laksawar e for writing this feature! Be sure to check out her handcrafted kitchenwares and bathwares like this cotton bath scrubbie for just $3.00.

UberArt is on the Front Page of Etsy!!

2009-06-25T17:09:00.002-04:00

Beth's gorgeous journal is on the front page of Etsy! Check out her wonderful shop! www.uberart.etsy.com

Feature Friday 06/19/09

2009-06-19T04:46:00.005-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Bag of Doritoz - Felt Food by LittleMissSewNSew $7.50

Giraffe Print Clipboard by slimdgm $16.00

Patriotic Placemat Purse by mychelle $15.00

Feature Friday 06/12/09

2009-06-12T10:28:00.007-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

This is a beautiful hand blown glass pendant circle created by inthelightglassworks, of Asheville, NC. Visit her shop to see more of what she has to offer.

The grasshopper pull toy, made by McCoyToys, of Asheboro, NC is a cute and practical toy that children will love! To view this item and so much more, visit their Etsy shop here.

This handcrafted lotion bar makes a great gift idea. Made by tgurleybathandbody of Raleigh, NC, this is sure to please! Be sure to check out Tracey's shop to see more of what she has to offer.

A big thanks to Stephanie of slimdgm for writing this week's Feature Friday! Check out her shop for original and customized clip boards like the one pictured below.

Feature Friday 06/05/09

2009-06-05T03:48:00.005-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Welcome to our newest members featured below! Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Other Moonlight - 5x7" Fine Art Print by deborahdee $15.00

Funky Flowers Quilt by karolsvintageart $125.00

Lampwork Glass Pendant Set in Sterling and Brass by Origamary $55.00

Sweet Repeats Studio Shoppe

2009-05-30T21:16:00.008-04:00

This week's featured artist is Jodi of Sweet Repeats Studio Shoppe, aka http://www.lucysweetlucy.etsy.com/. Jodi is based in Aberdeen NC, outside of Raleigh. She's been an Etsier for 3 years and opened shop August of 2007.

Sweet Old World HeART - Joy

How did you choose your shop name? I started my blog (Sweet Repeats) before I started my Etsy shop. Originally my blog was a place to share my thrifty finds and cool bargains that I discovered around town. I had a real need to be frugal during that period of my life and instead of being ashamed, I opted to embrace my thrifty side and make a hobby out of yard saling and thrift store shopping. It was my dream at the time to open a shop that was more than just a thrift store. I envisioned having a store where customers came and found unique items 'upcycled' into artful endeavors. Thus, Sweet Repeats was born.

As time evolved though, I turned to art to heal some old wounds and began showcasing art on my blog more than my thrifty goodies. It was actually one of my blog readers who became my first customer when she requested to purchase one of my collages for her daughter. I couldn't have been more thrilled! That request was definitely a turning point for me. I started to believe that just maybe, maybe...I was an artist after all.

What is your specialty and what drew you to it? I am a mixed media artist/painter. I have come to be known for my distinctly textured paintings that often incorporate whimsical subjects. While my work isn't monochromatic, it's close. Typcially, my paintings have only 2-3 main colors that are then complimented with black and white, sometimes with a touch of some surprising contrasting color.

My favorite subjects right now have been houses and villages. I have been drawn to this subject for a while now, I suppose it's because I'm so far from home (I live over 600 miles from my nearest family member) that I am constantly revisiting the places where I've lived and loved.

My Hometown

Another reason I paint so many different houses and villages is that out of everything in life I have, one thing I don't have yet but want so badly is a home of my own. I want my kids to remember our family in a house that is ours. I'm almost consumed by this desire which sometimes I feel like it's a regret....a regret that I have yet to have achieved this goal of mine. My paintings help me cope and sort out my feelings of homesickness and desire to accomplish greater things in my own little world. I do all of this in a happy whimsical way though, which I think people enjoy seeing the brighter side of life despite our struggles. It's like a statement of optimism, in my own creative way.

Pick one item you have created and provide link either from your shop or flickr. What inspired the “birth” of this item? As I stated earlier, one of my themes over the past year has been on home, community, the sense of belonging, and finding that place in the world you can lay down your roots. I've interpreted my theme in a whimsical way using colors of blue, white, black and pink. My work is distinctly textured which is symbolic of the layers of our lives, emotions and motivations in this world as we embark on our own journeys.

Does this item have any personal significance to you? This piece is also special to me because I created it as part of a series of work in which a few pieces were selected to be featured in the Nov/Dec 2008 issue of Cloth Paper Scissors magazine. In that issue, I wrote my first article! I can't tell you how much that whole process has changed my life. I feel now more than ever, that I am truly on the right path in life.

Jodi's article in ClothPaperScissors Magazine!

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item? Truthfully, I love coming up with happy color combinations and creating background after background. It's almost like the thrill of the trip, the planning, the seeing everything come together just before you get to the final destination. Of course, I love when I finally complete a project, but it's often met with a tinge of sadness that the journey is over with....and then, before I know it, it begins all over again!

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item. I work full time as a bank manager so a day in my studio is something I rarely get. Rather, I work at night, stealing away a few minutes or hours whenever possible. On the weekends I make up for what I don't do during the week. A lot of Friday nights are spent working feverishly into early Saturday morning. I try to do as much as I can in the few hours that I can muster here and there but at the same time, I doubt myself that I'm even doing enough.

Regardless, I'm still happy with all that I've been able to accomplish without any formal training. As far as my process goes, I typically incorporate a lot of paper items and acrylic mediums which add texture to my work. Then I slowly build up washes of color with acrylic glazes before I complete my subjects. I like to embed secret messages in my pieces....some you can see, others are not to be revealed to anyone but myself.

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
This piece is actually part of an ongoing project that I'm doing where I am revisting every place I've lived over the course of my 40 years (shhh!) whether it's the town itself, or street where I resided. I have been working on this series since July of 2008, and believe it or not even with all the paintings I've completed, there are still more towns and streets I have yet to commerate with my work. It's been an eye opening journey to say the least!

The only thing that I have been doing consciously different than when I first started is to work in groupings of no less then three pieces at a time. I feel that collectors and potential buyers appreciate having groupings of my work that can either stand alone, or make a nice statement when bought together.

You can follow Jodi on Twitter, check out her blog, see her portfolio on Flickr, and visit her shop!

Feature Friday 05/29/09

2009-05-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Made using the traditional cold process method, this tea tree and peppermint soap by tgurleybathandbody smells fantastic and has a fabulous lather.

This vibrant blue bracelet by MBsignaturedesigns is hand crocheted with glass beads and wire. It's very lightweight and comfortable to wear.

This linen wristlet with vintage lace by agreenelephant is elegant enough to wear with a spring dress but still casual enough to go with jeans and a white t'shirt.

Feature Friday 5/22/09

2009-05-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

These adorable pink hair bows by stefaniesbownanza would make a great gift for any girlie-girl. Take advantage of Stefanie's May special - Purchase 3 or more braided headbands and get one free.

This bird of paradise bright yellow soot-free candle by ValerieEssentials is perfect for summer time.

Brighten up your kitchen and keep it clean with this fun and eco-friendly scrubbie set by laksaware.

Feature Friday 5/15/09

2009-05-15T15:25:00.005-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

GoneDoggie's Margarita Dog Collar is sure to make your pampered pooch happy.

The pretty blues and greens in this quilted painting by kingfishercrafts would be a great addition to any wall.

This scrapbook by WhiteHopeDesigns would make a great gift for a new mom to record her precious memories in.

The Self Portrait of Lauren Alexander

2009-05-11T07:46:00.000-04:00

This week's featured artist is Lauren Alexander of Overland Park, KS. Lauren's Etsy shop has been open since May 2006.

Walk You Home - original ACEO

Lauren says, "I am a watercolor painter and I have always been one even as a little kid with a box of Prang watercolors. I just love the way water makes the colors come alive. The first painting I ever sold was a large watercolor portrait to my high school library."

Sweet Tree

Pick one item you have created and provide link either from your shop or flickr. What inspired the “birth” of this item?

I painted this picture of a tree with hearts a little over a year ago. I was just beginning to find my voice with my work and needed a piece in my collection that would really say what I’m about. This painting came from my head – I remember just deciding to put all the different colors together in each heart and fruit…adding all the little details and specks of color within it. It felt right to me and from then on I have kept a little bit of Sweet Tree in almost everything I paint.

Does this item have any personal significance to you?

This image is symbolic to me. Hearts have always been special– a symbol of love of course but also a reminder of heart disease – something that has touched me and my family very closely in the last couple years. I see hearts as a reminder to love one another along with one’s self. Take care of your hearts!

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?

I remember painting in all the bright colors and just knowing that it was going to be a winner! I remember having it out on my work desk and just going back to it throughout the evening to look at it.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.

My “studio” is my dining room table, adjacent to my living room. I paint there in the evenings when I come home from my day job (working with special needs students and teaching art). I generally like to sketch right on my watercolor paper. I like to dive right in. I usually watch tv or listen to music while I paint. Sometimes I cook dinner at the same time!

Lauren Alexander Magnets - Set of 10

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?

This item sparked a whole new trend for me of painting trees in a sort of colorful, whimsical way. I have since started putting creatures in the tress, birds, owls, and such. I enjoy creating environments and little creatures to inhabit them. I love to play with color and try new combinations. I love finding new ways to make people wonder how I did that with watercolor. It is exciting and keeps me going and going.

Visit Lauren Alexander's shop on Etsy to see more of her colorful work!

Feature Friday 5/8/09

2009-05-08T00:01:00.004-04:00

Summer is fast approaching. Get prepared for the pool and trips to the beach with these fun accessories made by members of the ACE Team!

Pampered Papier’s Ice Cream Post It Note Set will help you stay on track. Leave it in your purse or beach tote and make a note for yourself when you run out of sunscreen or need a reminder to pick up a couple things at the grocery store on the way home.

This Super Summer Fun Flip Flop Bag by Aprils Originals is a great way to carry all your necessities no matter where you are headed. It’s fashionable and functional with a key chain clip so you’re always ready for that quick trip out for ice cream!

Keep your sun screen lip balm handy with a Summer Girl Lip Balm Cozy by EB Spider. Easily attaches on your key ring or bag zipper with a lobster clip, so it will never get lost in the bottom of your bag.

A big thanks to Cathy of agreenelephant for writing this feature. Be sure to check out her shop for original sewn items like Eve, the little elephant.

Featured Artist: Karen’s Kitsch

2009-05-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

In this week's spotlight is Karen of Karen’s Kitsch. Karen is based in the Raleigh/Durham area of NC and has been a seller on Etsy since November 2007. She also has a website she started April of 2005.

How did you choose your shop name?

Well my name is Karen and kitsch sort of means chintzy, fun, funky, campy art or collectibles, so it seemed to fit my whimsical style. Plus the great alliteration which makes the name easily memorable doesn’t hurt either!

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?

Jewelry is my current specialty and what drew me was a pair of earrings I saw in a little boutique in New Orleans, November of ‘04. I loved them and bought them for my brother’s girlfriend for the holidays. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately for me) they only had the one pair. I loved them and wanted more. I was a studio art minor at Skidmore College in ‘95 so I though “I could do that.” And, well…eventually…I did!

Vintage Image Earrings with Pearls

Custom Photo Charm Mother's Bracelet - Single Strand

What inspired the “birth” of this item?

I started off making earrings with vintage French postcards, and still do, which was what inspired me originally. But then all of my friends were having babies and my aunt sent me a mother’s bracelet when my second son was born. I immediately thought, “I should add a charm to this with a picture of my kids. Wait…I could totally make these, WITH charms of my friends’ kids!” They started off just as a new baby gift for my friends, but they were hugely popular so I added them to my shop.

Does this item have any personal significance to you?

Most of the jewelry you see on my sites I made for me or for a friend. So all of the photos are of my kids or my friends’ kids and I think that is pretty cool.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?

Cropping the photos just right. I love to see the pictures people choose. Once, for cufflinks a bride-to-be was having made for her fiancé’s groom gift, she sent me photos of the wheel and the headlight of his jeep. He was totally a jeep guy. I cropped them for round cufflinks to just fit into the silver bezel. They came out so great!

Custom Sterling Silver Cufflinks

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.

I recently started working at a full time job outside of my home so a workday these days is a rushed 15 minutes here and there whenever I can. Okay let’s be honest, it’s hours into the night after my kids are asleep when I should be asleep. But I love it, and I forget the time and everything else while I’m working. It’s like when I was in College and I’d go into the studio at 4 in the afternoon, then I’d look up and it would be 3 in the morning and I had no idea how that happened. I’ve always loved getting lost in a project. The thing I love most about what I do now, is that every piece is special and unique to the person who ordered it or who will be receiving it. This way, working never gets rote or boring.

Visit Karen's shop to see more great items!

March for Babies Update

2009-05-02T08:21:00.000-04:00

Valerie, her husband, and kids all walked together in the March for Babies fundraiser and raised $110 for the March of Dimes. Congratulations Valerie!

Valerie says, "I didn't really do a time because I was going to do a solo and do a power walk BUT my hubby and kids wanted to join me. So that was great! So the kids were in the stroller (off and on) and Brad doesn't really walk much, so I had to walk much slower. But it was fun! And it was great to have the whole family in the event! "

"I think we finally RACED passed the finish line in about an hour. I kept telling my husband, "Come on let's jog it out... Come on you and do it!" So I was jogging and he said I'll race you and took off (glad he was the one with the stroller!). It was hot and fun! I was real proud of my husband wanting to walk with me, since he's more into motorcycles and dirt bikes for fun."

Pictures of the event can be viewed here.

Feature Friday 5/1/09

2009-05-01T00:01:00.002-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

UberArt's Winter Damask Mini Book is so precious. It would make a lovely guest book, memory book, or scrapbook and great for gifts too!

Love yarn? Check out Jazzturtle's Playtime- Handspun Art Yarn.

There's glitterati and tussah silk waste all the way from Australia and sari silk bits and recycled denim in this colorful concoction!

Tracey Gurley's Avocado is strikingly breathtaking! Her work has been spotted in various galleries and venues in over 75 homes and businesses in North Carolina and she has been commissioned to paint 33 paintings for a hotel in Poland as well.

A big tanks to Bernie of laksaware for writing this feature! Be sure to check out her handcrafted kitchenwares and bathwares like this bath scrubbie and soap set which would make a great gift for Mother's Day.

Feature Friday 4/24/09

2009-04-24T06:00:00.006-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

You Made a Baby Card

Here's a comical way to congratulate someone on their new edition.
SpawnStudio has lots of unique and funny cards to choose from.

Rays of Light - Hand Blown Glass Circle Pendant
This pendant would make a wonderful gift if you could bear to give it away.

Live, Laugh, Love - burlap pockets / sachets
These would be perfect for stuffing with fragrant dried lavender or mint and they're very reasonably priced at 3/$10.

March For Babies

2009-04-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

One day... all babies will be born healthy.

Today... too many moms and families know the heartbreak of having a baby born fighting to survive.

One of our team members, Valerie of ValerieEssentials will be participating in the 5K walk for the March for Babies, sponsored by the March of Dimes on April 25, 2009 in Charlotte, NC.

Here is the link if anyone would like to donate to the March of Babies (March of Dimes) or to Support Valerie. OR if anyone wants to join in the walk!

The money we raise for March for Babies will help:

- support all-important research offering preventions and solutions for babies born too soon or with birth defects

- educate women on things they can do to increase their chances of having a healthy baby

- provide comfort and information to families with a newborn in intensive care

- push for newborn screening and health insurance for all pregnant women and children

Please help by donating today!

The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

ACE Team Makes Soap

2009-04-13T18:46:00.003-04:00

From left to right: Tracey, Jenn, April, Beth, Ruth, Bernie, Cathy, Valerie, Michelle

Several ACE Team members got together last weekend for fun, food and soap making. Tracey and April were nice enough to demonstrate cold process soap making to the rest of the group. I am sure that we all have a much greater appreciation for this complicated process.

We also made salt scrub and soap balls scented with essential oils.

Bernie poses with our coconut and lime scented soap balls.

A big thanks to Tracey for opening her lovely home to us and to April and Tracey for teaching us how to make soap!

Friday Favorites!

2009-04-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop. This week's favs were chosen by Valerie of Valerie's Essentials.

Flutter by Zellbell

A beautiful beaded keychain with contrasting beads of light and dark colors. I like butterflies (dangle bead on the bottom left), which she uses in a lot of her work. She also has butterflies in her ID holders that she made for Breast Cancer Awareness in October for members of her family.

Rainy Day Boots Glass Pendant by DenimNotes

Reminiscent of a little girl wearing boots and jumping in rain puddles. Or instead of a little girl, maybe it's me doing the jumping! A very fun and unique piece!

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Handpainted Art Pendant by AlloverArt

This piece just makes me proud to be here in North Carolina! I love the bold Carolina blue sky background. I can just imagine myself at the beach down below the lighthouse looking out at the ocean and listening to Jimmy Buffett's A Pirate Looks at Forty...
"Mother, mother ocean, I have heard you call,
Wanted to sail upon your waters since I was three feet tall,
You've seen it all, you've seen it all ..."

The World Is My Studio

2009-04-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

This week we meet Christy from The World Is My Studio based in Pennsylvania. Christy is a freelance photographer and artist.

sustenance

How long has your shop been open?
I just opened my shop two months ago, in January. I spent the first month getting acquainted with etsy. Then I started posting my photography in February.

How did you choose your shop name? What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
"The World Is My Studio"... is the way I see the world. Art as with beauty is subjective but it is always full of soul. I've been taking photographs in my mind all my life, capturing images, freezing moments in time. Now that I have tools and credentials, I can bring some of those moments in time to you. The world is my inspiration and my studio.

What inspired this photograph? Does this have personal significance to you?

cat's nap

Every one of my photographs is attached with a memory or a story. Therefore, every one of them means something to me. Of course my favorite photographs are of the ones that I love or my loved ones inspired. My Muses!

Please describe a workday in your “studio” and how you create.
Since I live in my studio, nothing is planned. I photograph spontaneously. For instance, I was walking about an old farm in NY, waiting for family to arrive. My camera and I uncovered "Untold Stories". The new series that I am currently working on. With unhurried moments and a camera... the possibilities are endless!!! You know those rare days when you have "time to kill". (I hate that expression!) I'm a born observer. I take that time and find the beauty around me and create something!

I love learning new things. And my mind is always a buzz. My shop just opened which means, you will have to stop by often, say "Hi!" and see what I've got up my sleeve. Don't be shy! I want to know what you are all about. Do you have something you want photographed? Give me an idea and I'll run with it! I dare you!

I love watching the sun come up... it always makes me feel a sense of hope and wonder. A new chance. A new way to look at things. With all the ups and downs in life, the beauty and the ugliness, we get to choose how see things.

How do you see the world?

Laksaware featured on Etsy Profiles Blog

2009-04-07T09:05:00.000-04:00

Bernie, from www.laksaware.etsy.com is featured on Etsy Profiles Blog! Congratulations Bernie!

Check it out here. http://etsyprofiles.blogspot.com

ACE Team Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt

2009-04-01T21:23:00.049-04:00

Thanks to everyone who participated, we had a great turn out for our first scavenger hunt. Congratulations to our lucky winners!

Grand Prize winner:
Melissa from GA

First Prize winner:
Christina from NC

Second Prize winner:
Jennifer from SC

Third Prize winner:
Erika from FL

Fourth Prize winner:
Susan from PA

Stay tuned for future contests and promotions!

Grand Prize – $110.00 Total Value

aprilsoriginals - Pleated Ba g in Michael Miller - $30.00
newfangled - Two Paper Bangles in Seafoam - $22.00
kingfishercrafts - Sea Foam Swarovski Crystal Drop Necklace - $20.00
TraceyGurley - Winner’s Choice of Eight Notecards - $16.00
aprilsoriginals - Four Tissue Holders - $12.00
stefaniesbownanza - Butter fly Cli ppies and Hair Bow Holder - $10.00

First Prize - $86.00 Total Value

AlloverArt - Bird Silhouette Pendant Necklace - $25.00
mariasfunkytreasures - Crocheted Pin k Beaded Necklace - $25.00
kingfishercrafts - Sea Foam Earrings - $12.00

TraceyGurley - Origina l Art Magnet/Miniature - $14.00

PamperedPapier - Funky Flowers Notepad Holder w/ Pen - $7.00

laksaware - Pistachio Scrubbie and Dishcloth - $6.00

Second Prize - $78.00 Total Value

Jazzturtle - Gone Nuclear- Handspun Art Yarn - $24.00
agreenelephant - Ellen, The Little Elephant - $21.00
mychelle - Winner's Choice of One Placemat Bag - $10.00-$15.00
stefaniesbownanza - 6 Satin Braided Headbands - $12.00
MooreMagnets - Set of 4 Magnets - $6.00

Third Prize - $67.00 Total Value

inthelightglassworks - Hand Blown Glass Pendant - $32.00
newfangled - Paper Bangle - Blue Lagoon No. 02 - $12.00
slimdgm - Customized Clipboard - $16.00
EBSpider - Cinnamon Spice Mug Cozy - $7.00

Fourth Prize - $51.75 Total Value

UberArt - Lace Chiffon Journal - $15.00
GoneDoggie - Winner's Choice of Handmade Dog Collar - $10-$14.00
ValerieEssentials - Three Roses - $5.00
LittleMissSewNSew - Snazzy Sewing Kit - $8.00
McCoyToys - Handmade Spinning Top - $9.75

Participating ACE Team Shops
agreenelephant - Adorable Stuffed Animals and Home Decor
AlloverArt - Wearable Art Pendants, Rings, Brooches, and Bobby Pins
aprilsoriginals - Fashionable bags, Wristlets, Crayon Keepers & more
EBSpider - Crochetd Accessories and Gifts
GoneDoggie - Handmade Items for Dogs and Dog Lovers
inthelightglassworks - Hand Blown Glass Jewelry and Homewares
Jazzturtle - Unique Handspun Yarn & Fiber Batts
kingfishercrafts - Applique Animal Quilts, Jewelry and Crafts
laksaware - Handcrafted Kitchenwares, Bathwares and more
LittleMissSewNSew - Aprons, Bags, Sewing Kits and more
mariasfunkytreasures - Handmade Jewelry and Vintage Items
McCoyToys - No Batteries Required - Just Imagination
MooreMagnets - Magnet Boards and other Fun Stuff
mychelle - Placemat bags, Dishcloths and more
newfangled - Unique and Durable Paper Bangles
PamperedPapier - Paper Goods For Any Need
slimdgm - Decorated Clipboards
stefaniesbownanza - Headbands, Clippies, Botique Bows and more
TraceyGurley - Original Art, Paintings, and more
UberArt - Journals, Guest Books & Polymer Clay Pendants
ValerieEssentials - Unique Gel Candles

Two More Days 'Til Our Easter Egg Hunt!

2009-03-31T13:33:00.010-04:00

In two days the ACE Team launches its first annual Easter Egg Hunt! Beginning April 2 you will have 5 days to hunt down all the Easter Eggs hidden amongst our talented team members' stores for the chance to win valuable prizes totaling $400!!

If you purchase an item from any ACE team member during The Hunt you will also be eligible for a chance to win prizes.

Here are some of the prizes you could win:

Lace Chiffon Journal by UberArt

Blue Lagoon Paper Bangl e by Newfangled

Funky Flowers Notepad by PamperedPapier

New Growth Glass Pendant by inthelightglassworks

Pistachio Vanilla Scrubbie by Laksaware

Ellen, The Little Elephant by AGreenElephant

Full details of the hunt will be available on this blog the day the hunt begins Thursday, April 2. Good Luck!

Countdown to the Hunt

2009-03-28T15:00:00.000-04:00

Follow this Blog for the chance to win numerous beautifully crafted prizes as the ACE Team launches its first annual Easter Egg Hunt from April 2-6, 2009.

If you hunt down the Easter Eggs you could win some of the following prizes crafted by our talented team of Etsy creatives.

aprilsoriginals - Pleated Bag in Michael Miller Feeling Groovy in Spa

ebspider - Cinnamon Spice Mug Cozy

The hunt is fun and easy. Search through ACE team stores to find hidden Easter Eggs secreted amongst product pictures. Besides the great runner up prizes this contest features a grand prize that is not to be missed.

We will be counting down over the next week giving you sneak peeks of the prizes we will be giving away so stay tuned to this blog for more info. Winners will be announced Tuesday, April 7, 2009.

Laksaware featured on Etsy Storque

2009-03-27T18:14:00.004-04:00

Bernie's face scrubbies are featured on Etsy Storque! Check it out here. http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/handmade-weddings-natural-grooming-tips-from-greenunion-1443/

www.laksaware.etsy.com

Way to go Bernie!!

Feature Friday!

2009-03-27T06:00:00.001-04:00

Welcome to our first (of many!) Feature Fridays. Here you will see some lovely items made by members of the ACE team. Just click on the photos to visit each seller's Etsy shop.

Pink Azaleas - ORIGINAL Plein Air Painting

This painting has me eagerly anticipating springtime which is just around the corner. It would certainly brighten any room. Mention the ACE team blog in the message to seller section to receive 15% off your entire order from Tracey's shop.

Happy Cupcakes Matchbook Notepads

These adorable matchbooks make great promotional items or you could keep some around for jotting down notes. Buy any item in PamperedPapier's shop and get a second item of equal or or lesser value half off when you mention this blog in the message to seller section.

Paper Bangle - Blue Lagoon No. 01

If you're looking for a unique gift, this bangle will do the trick. It is handmade completely out of paper. Receive free shipping on any regular priced item(s) from Newfangled's shop when you mention the ACE team blog in the message to seller section upon checkout.

Article written by Jenn of Newfangled. Thank you Jenn!

Introducing TBQ Designs - The Bead Queen

2009-03-22T12:46:00.000-04:00

This week we had the opportunity to meet Lisa of TQB Designs based in Portland, OR. Lisa opened shop on Etsy in July, 2006.

Lisa says, "I first became interested in beads when I was 12 years old. My mother gave me a beaded rope necklace that she no longer wanted and I promptly started taking it apart. It has thousands of little beads in all kinds of colors and I found it utterly fascinating!"

"I have been making my beaded beads for over 10 years now. I am self-taught in the art of bead weaving and developed a system to create these textural rounds, ovals, squares, cylinders, and barrel shaped beads."

Feather Necklace, Pocket Full Of Posies

How did you choose your shop name?
Well actually, I came up with my studio name while in high school. I have always been rather exuberant and thought of myself and something special and came up with The Queen Bead - for my love of beads. Shortly after making my jewelry for re-sale in galleries years later, I realized that his was quite a popular name in all is forms. So, I shortened it up to just the initials (and it makes people chuckle when they realize it's not my initials)...

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
My specialty is three-dimensional beaded spheres, ovals, squares and cylinders. I use the one of the smallest seed beads and hand weave them around wooded cores.

"Pin Dot Earring, faded denim"

What inspired the birth of this item?
I love bobby pins and bobby-pin like hair accessories. I was actually holding one up to put in my hair and realized that it would make a fantastic earring or pendant. I immediately went to my studio and worked up a couple of prototypes and developed the Pin Dot Earring along with a new ear wire that I call the "hair pin curl".

Does this item have any personal significance to you?
I love long earrings. I guess because I have large amounts of dark curly hair and unless the earrings are long and/or substantial, there is really no point in my wearing them. Also, they lend a lot of glamour to any outfit!

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
I actually have two favorites, and I think that is appropriate since I consider the weaving to be a totally separate thing from the metal work; it's a different mind-set.

My first favorite part is actually weaving the beads. Now I know that this may sound tedious and it is, yes. But I actually now use it when I want to be calm and meditative after having a stressful or exciting day. It's my sedative.

My second favorite part is design development. I love coming up with new designs and often get side-tracked when up against deadlines for shows or wholesale order, unfortunately. There is something about the thrill of "figuring it out" -- that vision in your head that you've been carrying around for months. When I finally see if in real life I can hardly believe that it came from me.

Please briefly describe a workday in your studio and how you created this item:

So this is my "Spotted Dot Earring" - named after my handmade bead cap. With this one I start by first making the cap.

I hammer out, on my bench block, sterling sheet metal to give it texture with one of my beautiful specialty hammers (I have several that give the metal different textures). I usually do this in large pieces around 6"x 6". It's one of those processes that I don't actually enjoy since I have to wear earplugs and my arm feels like jello afterward.

Anyway, once the metal is hammered I use a series of cutters and punches to get the disc the appropriate size and punch center holes. I use then my dapping block to dome the discs to give them their cap-like shape. The final step is a bath in Liver-of-Sulfur and a ride in the tumbler for a finish and wash before I use them in any jewelry assembly.

The jewelry assembly is really straight-forward. I use a sterling head pin (also oxidized) and stack up one of my beaded rounds, head pin, and real cultured pearl. The bead cap has been "steel-wooled" in order to remove some of the LOS in order to view the "spotted" pattern. ...and fini!

I can have a studio day from anywhere between 2 hours of work to 20 hours of work, depending on deadlines on orders or shows. Much of my time, of course, is weaving beads while sitting with my lap desk covered in tubes of bead colors or standing at my work bench making ear wires.

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
Oh my goodness, yes! If you were to view my work even 5 years ago, there was no way I was this into sterling silver. I was actually all over the place with the components and elements in my jewelry using many different kinds of pearls, gemstones, commercial components and I even had a gold-filled line. Four years ago, when I quit my full-time job as an Administrative Manager at a high-end gallery chain, I realized that I had so many more ideas about my jewelry and my style really started to develop after that.

I actually ran into a woman a few years ago and she was wearing a pair of my earrings from 1997! I couldn't believe the evolution of my work. But, there were no complaints from her - these were earrings she wore almost everyday she said! What's better than that!

Laksaware featured on Such Cool Stuff!

2009-03-22T11:36:00.002-04:00

Bernie from http://www.laksaware.etsy.com/ was featured today on Such Cool Stuff blog. Check it out here. http://suchcoolstuff.blogspot.com/2009/03/laksaware.html

Congratulations Bernie!!

Sneak Attack!

2009-03-13T20:22:00.012-04:00

The ACE Team sponsored a "Sneak Attack" on GoneDoggie's shop! GoneDoggie makes dog collars and accessories for our furry friends. Visit her shop on Etsy! Enjoy the photos below of the lucky recipients of the purchases!

April of MooreMagnets detailed the event for us. Thank you April!

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

Right now there is a huge economic crisis in this country, and here on the ACE team all members have felt the pinch. However, one very special member and our team leader, GoneDoggie, is facing the even harder crisis of watching a loved one die from terminal cancer. We have read her updates, we have felt the heartache in her posts, we have prayed for her, and many of us have shed tears for her.

Eebee sports a modern pattern of orange and red circles on black

However, this outpouring of support did not seem like it was enough and a meeting was called. During this meeting several members brought up ideas on how we could provide some financial assistance to further aid our friend.

Roland shows off his new pirate collar!

There were lots of good suggestions that will probably be implemented to raise money for other important team causes. However, they did not seem feasible to provide our team member with the immediate financial assistance that we felt she needed.

Sammy in a green dotted collar.

It was not until the idea of a "sneak attack" came up, that we found a way to provide financial support immediately. A sneak attack is where a group bands together to benevolently "attack" a specific shop with sales. As many people as possible then buy items from that shop, resulting in a frenzy of surprise business to the unsuspecting shop!

Maximus looking stylish in a purple paisley bandanna.

There were some members who decided to donate outright instead of making a purchase, and it was agreed that they too would make these contributions during our sneak attack. Some members who are suffering too greatly from the economic crisis and were unable to help as much as they would like. However, a team is only as strong as our weakest link, and we are supporting each other even if it is only with our prayers!

Arrow in her ECU (East Carolina University) Collar

Tabby, brave cat amongst dogs, naps peacefully wearing a contemporary print collar

Even though our dear friend would like to know the details of how we pulled off this "sneak attack" with out her having any suspicions, we would like her to know that each team member contributed in their own way. It is and was our intent to have the light shined upon her, and not upon any one team member.

Another napper, Dakota, wearing his new pirate flag collarSummer, proudly showing off her lovely new GoneDoggie collar!

Meet Connie of HossLass Art

2009-03-09T12:21:00.005-04:00

Our featured interviewee this week is Connie of Hosslass Art. Connie is based in Burleson, Texas and opened her Etsy shop in August of 2007.

How did you choose your shop name?
Well, I've always been a horse girl for most of my life, I kept thinking of unique names to try. Using my name in one of these formats (...art, ....designs, ....studio) just didn't appeal to me. One day I was online reading through a message board and saw a username *****lass, and I thought, "Hosslass"! And I've used it ever since!

Desert Runners Tres

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
I create watercolor pencil paintings and make embellished crafts using my art works, both equally! I feel a certain freedom not locking myself into "just" being a painter, or "just" being a crafter. I love being able to combine both. As a life long animal lover, especially horses, horse art is becoming my specialty. I have always had such a strong bond with horses, and feel so privileged to have them in my life.

I only have been painting in recent years, (after about 25 years of not doing any kind of art, I used to draw and paint a ton when I was growing up), so I'm learning about art all over again. It's fascinating! However, as much as I love painting horses, I also want to do well with wildlife and landscape subjects. Being outdoors in nature plays a huge part in my daily life!. I plan on completing more paintings and gift art in those areas as well.

The Polite Offering

I asked Connie to talk a little about her "The Polite Offering" picture. What inspired the “birth” of this item?
When I was forming art to promote in my shop, I explored ideas for gift items with my own unique twists. I was looking through some art supplies from a seller on Ebay and saw these larger vinyl bookmark sleeves. From there I got the idea to create embellished original painting bookmarks as my signature functional gift art. That way I could combine the desire to create art with beads and natural stones as a special touch to enhance the miniature painting. I don't really want to make jewelry since there are so many others who are much more talented at doing that than me! I am always trying to think of creating unique art pieces that offer a soothing, peaceful beauty with a functional use! Why can't you use something and enjoy original art at the same time?

For this particular bookmark painting, I portrayed a bonding concept between horse and human called "the horseman's handshake". Although I had been around horses since my teenage years (got my first horse at 16) and worked for all sorts of trainers and farms, vets, through many years, in 1997 I got a horse (as a "gift") that showed me I really didn't know as much as I thought I did! She was a reality check that would kick me between the teeth, literally (no wonder her previous owner gave her away to me)!

As a result, I sought out training programs to help me survive handling this horse. It was then I discovered the world of natural horsemanship (NH) which teaches people to understand the way horses really think and treat them with respect, kindness and feel (instead of fear, force and intimidation which is what most "traditional" horse training methods teach). One concept in NH circles is to offer the horse to check you out first, instead of the human just marching up and handling the horse without checking what the horse is thinking. By offering the back of the hand toward the horse and waiting to see if the horse will touch the person first is a very polite, respectful gesture to the horse. It goes a long way to the horse in building trust in the human. It's such a little thing, but it means so much for the horse. In this painting I wanted to portray this small but important gesture that I've learned to mean so much! Hence the name of the painting "The Polite Offering".

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
Once I get the composition laid out and colors I will use, I think my favorite process is the actual painting, figuring out which color goes where and watching the interaction of the colors and water effects. I also enjoy having the rush of ideas about using a little different painting technique here, experimenting with a different color there while I'm "in the moment" of painting! I so enjoy seeing the subject come to life with color and depth, it's like hiking down a trail that I have a pretty good idea of where I'm going and seeing some great scenery surprises along the way!

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item.
For this bookmark, the process starts first with a visual image I get in my head of the finished product. This is my guideline. I would then look for reference photos in my magazines or online for colors, values, lighting, structures and see what says "yea that will work!" (I do not ever copy outright any subject from a copyright image). Then I usually make a drawing of the composition for the painting. For some paintings, I will first do a pencil tonal/value sketch drawing before painting. This helps me get a better guide for color values later on.

Then I usually lay a underpainting neutral color on the main subject. With horses or any animal I paint, I always start with the eyes; the eyes are what will balance the structure of the rest of the profile. I then will paint a basic tonal painting and then leave the painting alone for a while. I often paint a little, then go away for a while and then come back and see the painting with "fresh" eyes. I may leave the painting in this kind of state for a couple of days if I feel the need!

Eventually the painting gets to a point where I have to consider it finished, otherwise I run the risk of over tweaking and muddying up everything! For the bookmarks, I often will work with beading arrangements on paper while I'm taking a break from painting. That way I can bounce between the two. Once the painting is finished, I will then create the bookmark tassel with the bead arrangement I decided on. I usually do all the sewing of the beads in one sitting. Then I add glue to all the stitching and allow that to dry overnight before slipping in the miniature painting in the sleeve and finally, the beaded bookmark painting is finished!

Backcountry Lunch Break

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
I would say that the bookmarks are always being improved on. My first couple of bookmark paintings I hadn't painted much with the type of paper used (lenox 100 cotton rag, printmaker paper) so it was an experiment to see how the watercolor pencil paint would react! I also hadn't done much beading, esp. wrapping around a 2mm leather cord. I just figured I would learn as I go and make it work! I now have a much better feel for the paper and am better about sewing beads on the leather cord. I now know which size and shape beads work best and my future bookmarks will use silk cord instead of wire for sewing (I think will offer a softer more finished look). I also first used some simple horse charms and now am experimenting with the matching glass pendants on the tassel end instead, as in the featured bookmark. I now have ideas of different "levels" of bookmarks I know I can create to offer in different price ranges. Everything is always such a work in process, and I love it!!

Feature on Made by Hand. By Me.

2009-03-04T15:18:00.004-05:00

Bernie from http://www.laksaware.etsy.com/ got some of our team members featured on Made by Hand. By Me. Check it out here. https://www.byhand.me/component/option,com_content/Itemid,70/id,2551/task,view/

Thank you Bernie!!

Team Member Featured on My Shopping Connection

2009-03-01T19:58:00.004-05:00

Ruth's wonderful, custom pet portrait pendant was featured on My Shopping Connection. Check out her feature here. http://www.myshoppingconnection.com/shoppingbymail/galleria/jewelry/custom-pop-art-pet-portrait-pendant.php

Check out Ruth's shop at www.alloverart.etsy.com to see all of her fantastic wearable art!

Two Team Members Featured

2009-02-26T08:36:00.009-05:00

Two of our very talented team members were featured on www.lilacpop.blogspot.com!
Ruth's beautiful pendant from http://www.alloverart.etsy.com/ was featured. Ruth creates lots of original, beautiful wearable art.

Bernie's fantastic organic face scrubbies from http://www.laksaware.etsy.com/ were featured. Bernie creates wonderful for your items for your skin and for your home. Bernie's work was even featured in the NY Times recently! http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/08/01/fashion/20080803-PULSE_5.html

Congratulations Ladies! Be sure to check out their stores to see what treasures you can find!

Biology 101 with The Crafty Hedgehog

2009-02-15T22:59:00.006-05:00

This week's featured artist is Emily of The Crafty Hedgehog. Based in Burlington, Vermont, Emily opened her Etsy shop in June 2007 and has been going strong ever since!

String Bean Frog

How did you choose your shop name?
Oy! When you open your Etsy shop, you are required to choose a name. I racked my brain because I wasn't sure at that time what direction I wanted to take the shop in, crafts-wise. I finally just decided on Crafty Hedgehog because I'm crafty and hedgies are cute. I figured I could change it later. Turns out, Etsy doesn't allow that. So Crafty Hedgehog it is.

What is your specialty and what drew you to it?
My specialty is knitting. I took up knitting about 10 years ago to help me quit smoking. I bought a ball of yarn, needles, a 1 pound bag of Twizzlers, and locked myself in my apartment over a long weekend. When I returned to work, I no longer smoked, but I still took a 5-minute break every hour to knit! I particularly like to knit toys and oddities like knitted dissections. I love making garments, too, but there is no way that I could sell those for any reasonable price. No one wants to buy a thousand dollar sweater! (P.S. It works like a charm, almost a decade smoke-free!!)
Congratulations Emily!! Way to go!

I guess the most popular thing I've ever made is Knitting in Biology 101

What inspired the creation of this item?
Hmmmm. I started out making very cute, very not-dissected frogs (which I still love to make). One afternoon, my husband made a joke about knitting a mutated frog with an extra leg. We started riffing on that idea, and soon the thought of a dissected frog came up. We argue over which of us actually thought of it (I think he just wants a finders fee!).

Does this item have any personal significance to you?
It actually does. I'm not a scientist, but I have a deep and abiding respect for what they do. I worry sometimes that egg-headedness is so looked down upon in America. Like Stephen Colbert says: many people seem to want to know things with their gut, not with their brains. I know I will never make any breakthrough scientific discoveries, but I can craft, and this is my little homage to the beauty of science.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item?
My favorite part is the knitting itself. I do like to come up with an idea and see it through the design process, but that can be a bit tedious and often involves a lot of math. I really just enjoy letting my hands do their work while my mind wanders. I can state definitively that needle-felting is the worst part of the process. You wouldn't think that there was anything in the fiber arts that would require you to get a tetanus shot, but you would be wrong. Yikes!

Please briefly describe a workday in your studio and how you created this item:
Well, it really depends on the piece, but many of my projects can be done in a day. Each animal is hand-knit, usually on double pointed needles. I used to knit while I was at work (my boss was awesome that way!), but the economic downturn has made me into an unemployment statistic. So, now I get up, put in a favorite DVD, plop on the couch, and knit for about 6 hours a day. I also knit on the bus, while riding in cars, while waiting for food at restaurants, and at friends' houses. A lot of my studio time is actually spent keeping up with emails and shipping. It's amazing how much time goes into boxing and labeling things.

Knitted Lab Rat in actual dissection tray

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
The dissected frog is part of a biological specimen series that I am working on. It started with the frog, and soon I added a dissected lab rat. I am currently working on a dissected fetal pig, with more creatures lined up after that. The frog itself hasn't changed insofar as the body construction. I would say that I have certainly gotten faster at knitting them up. The innards have become more interesting over time, though. I discovered a beautiful, super-bulky alpaca yarn in a light blue that I have recently been making into "intestines"!

I have had some emails from actual biologists who complain that my guts aren't accurate enough, but for some things I just had to use a little artistic license. I picked out the wool roving for the innards based on my own favorite natural color scheme!

Sculpted Animals by Christina's Studio

2009-02-09T11:48:00.007-05:00

We're starting a new series on our team blog interviewing other Etsy artists in our online community. It's a fun way to get to know who's out there and to spread the word to BUY HANDMADE!

The first interview in our series is with Christina of Christina's Studio. You may know her Etsy username as cbarjcrafts. Christina is a fellow North Carolinian from Statesville.

She opened her Etsy shop in September of 2007. Her specialty is sculpted caricature (of sorts) of mostly pets and domestic type animals. She says she enjoys clay because it gives her the instant gratification of dimension.I asked her how she chose her shop name and she said, "Ha! The shop's original name, C bar J Crafts, was a combination of my brother's and my initials...No offense to my bro, but I shoulda thought that one through a little more!"

I wanted to know more about Christy's process in creating a piece. She chose her favorite sculpture and took me through the creative process.Christy says:
As of late, my favorite piece has been one title "Sunday Kind Of Love".

What inspired the “birth” of this item? I'm a big jazz and french bulldog fan and really wanted to do a larger piece with two bullies name Ella and Louis. I couldn't quite decide how to set it up until one day while listening to Etta James sing, 'Sunday Kind of Love' this little scenario popped into my head...and know Ella and Louis now reside in Michigan.

What is your favorite part of the process of creating your item? You know, it really varies. Sometimes I think that sculpting the pieces and watching them come to life is the most awesome part and I worry that when I go to paint them that I won't be able to do it justice. Other times I'm so frustrated during the sculpting process that I'm excited to lay down the paint and see what I'm able to accomplish with color.

Please briefly describe a workday in your “studio” and how you created this item--
Hmmm...well it usually starts off with me turning on some good tunes and then I sit down with a lump of clay in front of me. For the bullies above, I referenced several different photos and played around trying to come up with the most flattering and bully-like positions. Depending on what I'm doing the sculpting process can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. Creating fur texture and facial details are the most time consuming.

The actual 'firing' doesn't take incredibly long because polymer clay doesn't require a kiln, so unless I'm really stressed about it, I try to at least begin the painting process the same day. For frustrating coat patterns like calico and brindle or those with lots of specific markings, I may wait until the next day. Painting can take 30 minutes to 3 hours. When I'm finally finished, I do the dance of joy, clean up my ever increasing MESS, and walk in and out of the room to see the piece in different places and angles...in case I need to fix something or add to it.

If this item is part of a special line that you do, has there been an evolution in your process? For example, if we were to compare the first one you made to this one, what differences would there be, if any?
Oh my word, there's a WORLD of difference from my first pieces to what I'm doing now, and I hope that by the end of this year there will be a greater difference- be it in styling or in the execution. If I were to pick one thing that stands out obviously, it would definitely be the eyes.

Strung Out For You

Christy's work is absolutely gorgeous and I really love the way she portrays the eyes in her sculptures. Visit her shop to see what other great works of art she produces! She also welcomes custom orders if you'd like a sculpture of your pet.

Get to know the ACE Team: An interview with Merriwood

2009-02-04T15:54:00.008-05:00

We've had shop interviews with most of our members already, but we wanted to pay a special tribute to a very hard-working member of our team, Meredith of Merriwood Designs.

Meredith has earned this distinction by her recent achievements of being awarded her BA degree while being a wife, new mother, and artist! Congratulations Meredith!

Here she is, on the right, celebrating with some ACE team members.

I had the pleasure of interviewing her with a focus more on her personal achievements rather than her art and here is what she had to say...

I earned a 4 year Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with concentrations in Criminal Justice & Psychology in 3.5 years. I felt a little rushed but I can even imagine being in school this semester so I'm glad I'm done now!

Since my degree is not at all related to art I plan on finding work in the human services field, probably in mental health, substance abuse, or foster care. I hope to work full time & still have enough energy for etsy.. well see how that goes! On that note, my shop is taking a new direction because of new regulations with regards to lead testing items made for children. I am in the process of changing things a bit to focus more on child keepsakes such as photojournals.

How did Etsy come into your life?

It was really by random chance. I was talking to someone about where they got their adorable garters and cake topper for their wedding and she told me about etsy. I was in the process of planning my own wedding so I ordered some things & instantly fell in love.

Some of Meredith's newest creations in her shop

I have always been into painting and drawing and sewing. I haven't done any drawing since high school so I have really lost my eye for it but I've been able to keep up with sewing through mending jeans and such. I also picked up a love for digital art which I'm hoping to incorporate more into my new board book projects.
The most challenging part of coping with the demands of school, motherhood, and running a business is time! There is never enough! What is odd is that now that I'm done and have less school involvement I feel like I don't have any at all for etsy because I have to do more work around the house, take care of my son, and look for a job.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything?
Never. I get a lot out of every minute of my life. People my age think I'm crazy to be married and have a kid, but we do things a little differently from most people and go for what we want. We always have a good time doing it in the end.

What advice would you offer someone facing the same challenges you faced?
Don't let other people push their negativity in your head. It is hard to stay positive. We're probably facing more challenges now than ever before.. but just smiling and putting some effort into having fun makes my whole day better. I would also suggest to do what you enjoy doing, despite what others may say about it. If it makes you happy, that's all that matters.

Welcome to ACE!

2009-01-25T11:21:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the ACE Team Blog! What exactly is an Ace Team? ACE is
short for Amazing Carolina Etsian. We are a small group of artisans living in North Carolina who have come together to support and promote one another's efforts as we sell our handmade goods on Etsy, an online marketplace for buying & selling all things handmade. We sell a wide variety of handcrafted items that include anything from purses to jewelry, you can check out all the team members and our individual Etsy shop links here.

Following the ACE Team blog would be a great way to get to know each
artist, as we share our stories about the things that inspire us to create.
It's also a great way to stay informed about our latest activities,
contests, giveaways, promotions and group sales we offer.
Thank you so much for taking the time to visit!

Ace Team Member Main Sites

2009-01-24T10:52:00.008-05:00

Looking for more information about the ACE Team members? Check out these members' main sites other than their Etsy shops!

UberArt - http://uberartworks.com/
Laksaware - http://www.laksaware.com/
Newfangled - http://www.jdbrown.net/
TraceyGurley - http://www.traceygurley.com/

ACE Team Member MySpace And Facebook Pages

2009-01-24T10:42:00.010-05:00

Looking for more information about the ACE Team members? Check out these MySpace and Facebook pages!

UberArt - Facebook
EBSpider - http://www.myspace.com/ebspider
InTheLightGlassworks - Facebook
Laksaware - Facebook
TraceyGurley - Facebook
Pampered Papier - Facebook
A Green Elephant - Facebook
Maria's Funky Treasures - Facebook

ACE Team Member Blogs

2009-01-24T10:27:00.018-05:00

Looking for more information about the ACE Team members? Check out these fantastic blogs!

UberArt - http://uberartshop.blogspot.com/
PamperedPapier - http://www.pamperedpapier.blogspot.com/
JazzTurtle - http://www.jazzturtlecreations.blogspot.com/
MariasFunkyTreasures - http://www.mariasfunkytreasures.blogspot.com/
EBSpider - http://www.ebspider.blogspot.com/
TraceyGurley - http://www.traceygurley.blogspot.com/
DenimNotes - http://denimnotes.blogspot.com/
Laksaware - http://laksaware.blogspot.com/
White Hope Designs - http://armyapronstrings.blogspot.com/
Newfangled - http://jdbrown.net/blog/

An interview with Kingfishercrafts

2009-01-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's talented artists are Kathy and Alistair of Kingfishercrafts. They make gorgeous beaded jewelry. A treasure to wear and an awesome one-of-a-kind gift!
Is there a story behind your shop name?
We are named for the Belted Kingfisher that stalks our creek for minnows.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
We opened our shop because we moved to the deep woods of North Carolina to escape the New York Rat Race. We now commute to work in fuzzy slippers.

What is your favorite material to use?
We love beads. Kathy even had a dream a while back that she was eating beads for breakfast. Yum!

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
Our favorite item changes daily. But right now we love our Evergreen Chandelier Cluster Necklace.

What are your creative inspirations?
We draw inspiration largely from nature: Sticks, stones and bones.

Are you a crafter full time or part time? If full time, how did you make the leap?
We are full time crafters right now, trying to put into action the best principles of successful Etsy store owners. This means a daily schedule of operation: time creating, time shooting pictures, time blogging/networking, etc.

Who encourages you to create?
We are encouraged by each other first and foremost but next by the kind and supportive voices in our heads. "You're really good at this." "Wow, you should share this gift with the world." "If you don't get to work you will starve."

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
Too soon probably for advice since we have only had a few sales so far. But since you asked, Taking good pictures. Since all we have on the internet are largely visual cues, taking good visually interesting product shots is vital.

Do you have a blog or website?
We are working on a blog write now as I continue to read and absorb Andy Wibbels great book - Blog Wild. http://kingfishercrafts.blogspot.com/
We recently launched another store selling Fairy Dolls that we are really excited about:
http://www.thefairyfrontier.etsy.com

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:
Although our stores focus on Jewelry and Dolls we love all things handmade. Kathy is an incredible puppet, mask and costume maker and I am a photographer/videographer and emerging media adventurer. Its an exciting time to be alive regardless of the world's current state of affairs and we have always believed in embracing the new. Feel free to reach out to us we can be a useful resource and we love to support others in their pursuit of happiness.

MadHattersPottery - Featured Artist

2009-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

The featured artist for this week is Candice from MadHattersPottery.My name is Candice and my shop's name is Mad Hatter's Pottery. I am primarily a painter who got sucked into the delicious tactile world of pottery! I started making little teapots (hence the name Mad Hatter's) but switched gears when I became eyeball deep in little teapots and ran out of people to give them to! Enter soy candles! It's never a dull moment between throwing, glazing, firing, pouring!

I chanced on Etsy one day when I was doing a search and it was a perfect fit. I am having too much fun!

I also have a vignette in The Shoppes at Farmers Hardware, an upscale emporium in an historic building in Boone, NC.

I do this "full time" -- as in I don't have a job with a paycheck. I'm never at a creative standstill as it is as important to me as air. If I'm not making my candles, I am painting, writing...the only thing I regret is that I'm a lousy singer!

I have two awesome teenagers who are creative beings in their own right and growing up too fast, so I am enjoying the time I have left with them at home.

Here are all the places I can be found:

http://www.madhatterspottery.com
http://www.trunkt.org/madhatter
http://www.flickr.com/photos/madhatterspottery/
http://madhatterspottery.blogspot.com/

Blossom, Etsy Artist of the Week!

2009-01-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lori of Blossom, aka Blossom Sundries, is the featured artist this week.Is there a story behind your shop name?
Blossom Sundries is the name of the herbal soap business I started ten years ago but as time went on I began to develop a new passion for mixed media art and I kept the name because the name took on it's true meaning to me - I was growing and blooming in all areas of my creative life.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
The only time I am truly happy working is when it's for myself, working with my hands and creating new things.

What is your favorite material to use? Found objects and vintage materials.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
Not sure that I have just one. But I would probably say I treasure my old photos the most.

What are your creative inspirations?
My creative inspirations come from just about everywhere, but most of it would probably come from my creative family.

Are you a crafter full time or part time? Full time.

If full time, how did you make the leap?
My husband is a full time artist who designs and builds his own line of furniture, so he has always encouraged me to be a full time artist, so I had the support and that's huge. It wasn't that big of a leap for me because I had been a stay at home mom for so long and we had learned early on how to live frugally and pinch pennies where ever possible. I have tried to go back to school for web design but I was miserable.

Who encourages you to create? My husband, mother, mother in law, my boys.

Do you have a blog or website? I have a blog.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:
We live on a small farm in Western North Carolina and I continue to make my herbal soap,
which can also be found in my shop along with my art.

Etsy Artist of the Week - Tracey Gurley!

2008-12-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Tracey Gurley is our talented artist for the week! Tracey does wonderful landscape, still life, and nature paintings, inspired from my very own North Carolina!What are your creative inspirations?
I am inspired by all of the beauty around us. A lot of times, we don't take the time to notice the beauty on this earth. I hope to help people to take a moment and "stop to smell the roses."

Are you a crafter full time or part time? Full-time.

If full time, how did you make the leap? I decided to become a stay-at-home mom when my daughter was born. I've always been a crafter and artist in some form of media. After my daughter started school, I decided it would be a perfect time to follow my dream.

Who encourages you to create? I always have the desire in my heart to create.

Do you have a blog or website? http://traceygurley.com

ACE Team hits the Etsy Front Page!

2008-12-25T21:53:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas to all!

We're so excited that members representing our team were featured on the front page of Etsy Christmas morning!
The treasury is in honor of our After Christmas Team Sale. Each participating shop is offering specials and discounts from 12/26 thru 12/31/2008. See each shops' announcement for details.

Here is a list of the participating shops:

Allover Art
April's Originals
Denimnotes
E.B. Spider
Gone Doggie
Mad Hatter's Pottery
Maria's Funky Treasures
Moore Magnets
Mychelle
Newfangled
Pampered Ponytails
Survivor's Therapy
Tracey Gurley
UberArt
What's Her Name

Etsy Artist of the Week - Pampered Ponytails

2008-12-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's featured artist is Crystal of PamperedPonytails.Is there a story behind your shop name?
I let my daughters name my shop when I was making hair accessories. It doesn't really fit now, but the name has grown on me.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I love crafting and just wanted to see what interest their would be in what I made. I was just very curious if I could be even a little successful at it.

What is your favorite material to use? PAPER

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
My mini notepads. I just love to make them. They are simple and very useful.

What are your creative inspirations? Anything and everything around me.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
I am a full time crafter and a stay at home mom. I took my business full time by just expanding on the crafts that I was already making.

Who encourages you to create? My three daughters.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners? Do what you love.

Do you have a blog or website? http://PamperedPonytails.blogspot.com - it is still a work in progress, I am trying though.

Newfangled Artist of the Week!

2008-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

The artist extraordinaire this week is Jen of Newfangled!
Is there a story behind your shop name?
The definition of newfangled is "attracted to novelty" and I am always trying something new. When I see an object the first thing I think is "what I can do with it?" The name also represents this new venture of selling my art online.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
Long Story short: I am attempting to live my dream by selling art on etsy as well as local boutiques and galleries. I am new to selling online, but I love the idea of sharing my creations with the entire world and I love the inspiration I get by browsing through etsy everyday.

What is your favorite material to use?
As a mixed media artist, I use all kinds of materials from paper to buttons to old books. One of my favorite materials is a huge vintage dictionary which is slowly losing all of it's pages. I use it for everything from jewelry making to lining the inside of cigar boxes.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
My favorite item is my Decoupaged Cigar Box because it features a lovely drawing by a long-gone artist and I love repurposing objects. It's also my favorite object because it was the first thing to sell in my shop.

What are your creative inspirations?
I love the idea of making something new out of something old. When I see an object I just start thinking about what I can do with it, and go from there.

Who encourages you to create?
I am encouraged and inspired by a lot of people in my life: My boyfriend, friends, and family. My boyfriend is always encouraging and supporting me and my friends and family save scraps of paper and other "junk" they think I will like (which I love!!) My sister-in-law is always helping with me projects and giving me ideas. She is also my model on etsy!

Do you have a blog or website? http://www.jdbrown.net

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:
I am a mixed media artist and I love doing creative things with different materials. Right now I'm making bangles out of paper and focusing mostly on different types of jewelry using paper. You will also see a few decoupaged pieces and other random things in my etsy shop from time to time because I can't stick to one thing for long.

An interview with 31Summers

2008-12-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

This week's featured artist from the ACE team on Etsy is Dana of 31Summers. She describes herself as a very eclectic crafter and enjoys making all kinds of things. Dana currently has jewelry, magnets, and baby bibs in her shop, but she says you never know what else you'll find!Is there a story behind your shop name?

I have been creative all my life and when you are like that at some point you start to believe it when people say, "you should sell your stuff". So when I was 31 I decided to open shop. My last name is Summers so at that point I had lived 31Summers…

What made you decide to open your own shop?

I needed a way to support my habit of buying new supplies. My goal when I started was to make enough to buy more supplies.

What is your favorite material to use?

I have so many, at this point wire and beads are my favorites. I also sew and fabric is an addiction as well!

Talk briefly about your favorite item:

My favorite item in my shop at this time would have to be the two bracelets in my "Curls and Balloons" series, I plan to make many more of these.

What are your creative inspirations?

My inspirations come from all over, I may see something in a magazine and make it my own. Lots of times I just pick up the wire and start bending or see a color scheme and throw all those beads in a basket and start stringing. My girls are also a great inspiration, they are always coming to me asking if I can make this or that. Between all of us we can usually figure out how to make it work.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?

I am a crafter part time, I have a full time job an animal clinic. It is one of the most rewarding careers you could ask for. If you are having a bad day all you have to do is walk into the back and pick up a kitten or puppy, instant peace for me!

How do you find the time to create?

My girls and husband are so very supportive of me, if I come home and have creative energy to burn, they will take care of dinner and come in my sewing room and talk while I work. I have some of my best conversations with my daughters in the craft room. I also am a night owl, so usually after everyone is asleep I craft.

Do you have a blog or website?
http://dana.blogs.com

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:

I am a very eclectic crafter, I often joke that I have Craft ADD, I jump from one thing to the next. If you will check out my blog and Flickr pictures you will also see that I love mosaic. I did my Grandmother's front porch steps!!!!!!!! Check them out in the "Other Projects" photo album. I also teach classes at my local bead shop here in town and that helps with supply cost as well. I also meet so many great people there. It is my new favorite hangout.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-05T22:47:00.003-05:00

Some wonderful items presented to you from our ACE team! Click the picture to see an enlarged version. Links to our members' shops can be found in the members list on the right sidebar.

Etsy Artist of the Week - Mychelle

2008-11-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's featured artist from the ACE team is Michelle of Fun Stuff by Mychelle. She makes recycled, re-purposed, and reusable items, mostly out of fabric. She is doing her part to help save our environment! You rock, Michelle!Is there a story behind your shop name?
I have been using this spelling online because it's different and stands out from the traditional spelling of my name.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I have dabbled with selling things I made since I lived in KS, but never in an organized way. I love the concept of a community market of handmade goods for the world.

What is your favorite material to use?
Anything re-purposed or recycled. We too often get rid of things when an item is no longer functional in its original purpose.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
My favorite item is the lab skirt tote. It is the most directly re-purposed item, made from an old skirt in a Labrador retriever print. Maybe it's my favorite because I love dogs!

What are your creative inspirations?
This is hard to answer because I never know when inspiration is going to hit me. I suppose it happens most often outdoors in nature.

Are you a crafter full time or part time, and how do you find time to create?
Part time, I often work on projects while hanging out with my husband or friends.

Who encourages you to create?
My grandmother who has always been a crafter, and also the members of the ACE team.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
I wish I was in the position to be giving advice, but I am on the learning end of this curve.

Do you have a blog or website?
No, I believe it is better to do one thing right than many things part way so I am working on becoming more proficient on the Etsy site and getting to know the ACE team members better before venturing elsewhere.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:
I was born in IA. Then my family moved to IL, WI, then NC. I grew up in Raleigh, NC before moving to Greenville to attend ECU where I met my wonderful husband from KS. We moved to KS for four years before returning to NC. I am happy to be back home.

Tricia's Creations - Featured Etsy Artist of the Week

2008-11-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Tricia of Tricia's Creations, http://TriciasCreations.etsy.com is the featured artist this week. Tricia hand paints on anything that is stationary! She can personalize most of her painted items.What made you decide to open your own shop?
Stefanie (of Stefanie's Bownanza) was the one who convinced me to do this on Etsy. I have been active in crafts for many years and was looking to expand my sales beyond my shop and shows.

What is your favorite material to use?
I LOVE to paint on most anything, I just love to use color....

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
I particularly enjoy painting animals and children in ceramics and have painted so many pine cones I think i could do them in my sleep, HA!

What are your creative inspirations?
Nature is probably my greatest inspiration. I love being outside...

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
I did crafts part time for years but when my full time job gave out (company closed) my husband suggested I try this. I have been a full-time crafter for several years now but have slowed down somewhat in the last couple of years. I want to get back in full swing.

Who encourages you to create? Family and friends

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
Remember that what you like is not always what everyone else wants.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article: My craft work probably started when I was under ten years old. I was taught to embroider by my mother and grandmother and also how to make all kinds of things. My real interest in painting and crafts was after I got out of school and took some classes at the local community college. Most of my training has been self-taught from books and just practice. I am married but no children. I am also involved in raising Santa Gertrudis cattle with my brothers and selling natural beef.

Featured artist this week...um...WhatsHerName...?!

2008-11-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

I really didn't forget her name, that's it!! The featured artist of the week is Gayle of What's Her Name, http://whatshername.etsy.com/. Gayle's mentally handicapped adult son also has a section in her shop, "Cards by Mitchell". Together, they offer a variety of gifts and accessories.

Is there a story behind your shop name?

As a "boomer" my memory is not as good as it once was, so I thought "Whatshername" was a good idea. That is the first thing that comes to mind when I'm trying to remember someone.

What made you decide to open your own shop?

I needed something of my own after giving so much to family. As a bonus, Mitchell has something of his own with his cards. He enjoys creating them and is thrilled when they sell!

Are you a crafter full time or part time?

Part time--I find time (& energy) here and there.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?

Learn how to work the computer BEFORE you open an online shop. Hmmm, there's a story there, I'm sure!! Heh, heh!

Moore Magnets - Featured Artist of the Week!

2008-11-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's Etsy artist of the week is April of MooreMagnets http://mooremagnets.etsy.com/. April makes magnet boards, both wall mounted and free standing, and button magnets. If you're looking to get yourself organized, or know someone who needs to, MooreMagnets is the place to visit!

What made you decide to open your own shop?

I had my own online store, but mainly sold at craft shows. I met some other Etsys at a craft show in May 2008 and they all had wonderful things to say about Etsy, so I decided to try it out. I am really glad that I did!

What is your favorite material to use?

Magnets! They are so much fun, and really appeal to kids and adults.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:

My favorite items are my magnet boards. I really just love making and buying functional art because I have never had a house big enough to just have decorative items. I love getting new fabrics and being able to display them on a wall in a useful way.

What are your creative inspirations?

My kids are where I get most of my inspiration from, but I am also inspired by my customers. Lots of my new items have come about because of comments that customers have made. They challenge me to try new things.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?

I am a full-time mom and a crafter during any extra hours I get! I lost my job in April, and decided to dive in head first. It has been a roller coaster ride, but everyone in my house is so much happier having mom at home that we are just making sacrifices in order to keep it that way. I worked from home for about 4 years, so I got a good dose of how to allocate my time.

Who encourages you to create?

My friends, family, customers, and other crafters.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?

Make your shop your own. There are many people who will tell that you need to change this or that, but you need to be happy with your own shop first. Only seek advice about the things you don't like about your shop.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article: Most of my life I was a crafter out of necessity. My mom was a single parent, and so I spent most of my teenage years buying clothes and furnishings that were broken or seconds and fixing them. My parents always told me that I could be anything that I wanted to be, and encouraged me to try new things. I consider myself to be a jack of all trades and I have had jobs that range from changing oil at Jiffy Lube to administrative/legal assistant to retail. Finding something that incorporates the variety of things that I like was always a challenge, but being a crafter allows me to be all of those things. I love what I do, and I love being married to a man who allows me to do that!

ACE Team Artist Of the Week - Survivor's Therapy

2008-10-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

Jackie of Survivor's Therapy http://survivorstherapy.etsy.com/ is the featured artist for this week. A big round of applause for Jackie who is one year and 4 months cancer free!!

Is there a story behind your shop name?
I am a breast cancer survivor. When trying to come up with names for my shop I sent a request out to friends and family for their comments. My sister came up with the name and it was perfect because my sewing has been my therapy while battling cancer.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
My daughter. I have been doing craft shows with her, she has her own ETSY shop (GoneDoggie, previously featured, see Archives) and she felt I should try it out.

What is your favorite material to use?
I love all kinds of material. I do a lot with fabric. But, when something inspires me I will try just about anything.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
I am really enjoying making pillowcases right now. The varieties of fabrics available now is incredible, you can really make a beautiful piece of artwork out of a simple pillowcase.

What are your creative inspirations?
Everything around me is an inspiration. I have been crafting for many years. When my kids were young they were my inspiration and I would make their clothes for them. Now I try to create fun but, useful items like my pillowcases.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
Part-time but, some weeks it feels like Full-time. Since going through almost 2 years of chemo I don't have the stamina that I used to, so I sew as much as I can. Often times I have to stop to take me a little nap.

Who encourages you to create?
My daughter, when she was little she would make things and do craft shows with me. I tried to teach her to sew using a sewing machine and she sewed her finger and that was that. A few years ago she got her own sewing machine and hasn't stopped since. She has kept me going with my crafts and inspired me to get back into the craft shows.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
It takes time for that first sale but, it will come.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article: I just turned 60 this year. I have three children. Four grandchildren with a fifth on the way. I am 1 year and 4 months cancer free. I have two dogs, Danny and Tedi which were both rescues. Tedi was actually a foster dog I was caring for and he ended up staying. I have been in NC for almost 2 years now and absolutely love it.

An interview with Aprils Originals

2008-10-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

The featured artist this week is April of Aprils Originals http://aprilsoriginals.etsy.com/. April makes designer diaper bags that are so fabulous, they look like handbags. Now moms can look chic while carrying diapers and formula around!

April says:
I named my shop Aprils Originals because my bags are original designs made by me. I do not use patterns for my work, all of the designs come from my head. I am inspired by other artists and by the fabric I use. I began designing my bags to meet my own needs and lots of people seemed to have the same needs.

I am a stay~at~home mom of a wonderful 5-year old little boy. All of this began nearly 3 years ago when I grew tired of carrying the same old diaper bag that 'looked' like I was carrying a diaper bag. I was constantly on the lookout for the perfect bag. So eventually I dusted off my sewing machine and just started creating for myself that 'perfect' bag. People would stop me and ask "Where did you get your bag" and when I would reply "I made it" they would usually respond "Can you make me one?". Eventually I realized that I might be able to continue to stay~at~home and contribute a little income to our family and be able to do what I love to do. Aprils Originals was then born!

I started out trying other markets like local boutiques and ebay but my sister-in-law told me about etsy so I decided to check it out and it was perfect!It was just what I was looking for.I love fabric, all kinds of fabrics but I have recently grown to LOVE designer fabrics. The quality of the fabric and the vibrant colors just cannot be beat. I have to admit that until about a year ago I really didn't even know that there was such a thing as designer fabrics. Like I said I am a stay~at~home mom and had pretty much gotten out of the 'loop' of fashion :o)

My favorite item would have to be the Mommy Bag that I make and the Crayon Keepers. I carry a Mommy Bag myself and I have a Crayon Keeper for my son in my bag at all times, it is wonderful and comes in handy more than I ever thought it would.

I would have to say that fabric is my biggest inspiration, it speaks to me like an empty canvas does to a painter. When I see fabric I just feel what needs to go together and sometimes I hold onto a certain fabric until the perfect match comes along and I just know that I will use them together. My husband thinks I am crazy but it is my art.

I started out a part~time crafter but my little shop has gotten so busy in the last couple of months that it has flown right into more of a full~time situation. I am up sometimes well into the wee hours of the morning sewing trying to keep up with my orders. It is very hard to juggle my first job, Mommy, with running my shop. It is a constant struggle but on the other hand a dream come true!

I have an extremely supportive family, my husband helps me whenever I need him to. He even helps me do some of the more mundane aspects of my work like the ironing on of the fleece and interfacing to each piece before it gets sewn together. My Mom and my Mother-in-law both have several of my creations. They have been 'guinea pigs' on more than one occasion.

I feel like the best advice I can give anyone would be to stick with what you love, don't always worry so much about whether or not others will love it. First and foremost create from your heart and soul no matter what the medium. If you don't love what you do then do something else until you find what it is that feels right to you!

I don't just sew I do a wide range of crafts, when I have the time. I love to knit and crochet, make jewelry, my son and I love to 'play' with polymer clay and on occasion I cross~stitch and make soaps and bath salts. I have been crafting since I was a child, my Mom is a wonderful artist. She can draw, paint and also loves to do many crafts. I didn't inherit my Mom's ability to paint and draw, my brothers both got that. But I do lots of things that my Mom doesn't. She is the one who originally taught me to sew when I was a little girl, I would sew clothes for my Barbies and my baby dolls. I have never had any formal training in sewing I just figure it out on my own. I also taught myself to crochet and to knit.

Check out April's blog at http://aprilsoriginals.blogspot.com/

An Interview with UberArt

2008-10-05T00:00:00.001-04:00

This week's featured team member is Beth of UberArt. Beth is a bookbinder and makes journals for sketching, writing, or jotting notes. She also works with polymer clay and designs pendants. You can find her creations in her Etsy shop http://uberart.etsy.com/.

Is there a story behind your shop name?
When I first started on Etsy, I was unsure what direction my shop was going to take. Being a mixed media artist, I create all kinds of things from jewelry, journals, paintings, etc. I selected “UberArt” because the name would encompass anything I chose to do.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in art. I have my undergraduate degree in art but never had the courage to put my creations out there. My husband saw an article in a business magazine about Etsy, encouraged me to try it out and here I am!

What is your favorite material to use? Paper and polymer clay.

What is your favorite item?
It’s hard to choose a favorite because I love them all, but I think my “Sand and Sky Journal” has become my signature item. I grew up near the beach and really enjoy incorporating seaglass into my work.

What are your creative inspirations?
I enjoy looking through art magazines for new techniques to try, but my main inspiration comes from being with other artists. I love working alongside others, sharing a creative aura and seeing the things we all come up with.

Are you a crafter full time or part time? If part time, how do you find time to create?
I am a part time artist. My time is split between being a mom to a toddler and being an artist. I grab any free time I can get, be it during naptimes or late at night!

Who encourages you to create?
My friends and family are very supportive and are always interested in my latest creations, or at least pretend to be!

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
Do what you love and keep at it. Chances are someone else will love what you do also.

Do you have a blog or website?
My blog address is http://uberartshop.blogspot.com/. I have a new website, still being tweaked, at http://uberartworks.com/. I hope to one day sell my items from my website also, in addition to Etsy.

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:
I've started a new section in my shop to benefit breast cancer research. I have a friend who has been recently diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. She commissioned me to create a journal for her to record her thoughts and experiences throughout the journey. I really enjoyed making something that would be so meaningful to her and thought it would be great to do that for others as well as helping raise money to eradicate cancer!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-01T13:00:00.006-04:00

Here are some Halloween/Autumn items featured by our members! Click the picture to see a larger view.

An Interview with McCoy Toys

2008-09-28T00:00:00.001-04:00

This week's featured artists are John and Emily of McCoyToys http://mccoytoys.etsy.com/. They handcraft wooden toys, games and puzzles. Hmm, Christmas gift ideas anyone?!
Is there a story behind your shop name?
Our business name is The Real McCoy - so etsy store became McCoyToys - our last name is McCoy - & the real mccoy means authentic - we felt it was appropriate for our wood toys, games, puzzles etc.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
We heard about etsy from April of mooremagnets. Explore the site & decided to give it a try. We are passionate about making toys & try to agree on a reasonable price in order for more children to enjoy them.

What is your favorite material to use? Wood

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
We have several items that we have not listed on etsy - our folk toys are probably our favorites - it is hard to pick one. The limber jack, jacob's ladder & of course the stack & roll pull toy.

What are your creative inspirations?
Friends, family & customers are frequently giving us ideas or making suggestions on how to improve an item. We listen! John loves to work with wood & create...I (Emily) love to add "character" to our toys & details that are eye catching.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
Full time (since retirement). When we began we were both working full time - & the toys were a "stress release". We decided to turn it into a full time profession.

Who encourages you to create? Our family, friends, & other crafters.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
We have been on etsy less than a month - we are learning patience, & would encourage others to do the same.

An Interview with Stefanie's Bownanza

2008-09-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

Stefanie of Stefanie's Bownanza http://stefaniesbownanza.etsy.com/ is the featured artist of the week. She makes hair bows, headbands, korkers, and hair clips. If you're looking for a finishing touch for a little girl's outfit, she's got it!

Is there a story behind your shop name?
I had sat for a few days thinking about several different names for my Business/shop and I just couldn't figure out what I wanted. Then my husband said "How about Stefanie's BOWnanza"? I loved it so that's the story.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I started selling locally and wanted to expand.

What is your favorite material to use? Grosgrain and Satin Ribbon

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
I have several favorite items. I love the Woven and Braided Headbands. I think my favorite item would have to be The Spider Korker Bows.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
Full Time. I was only working Part Time when my business started taking off and soon I had so many orders that I couldn't keep up with working part time and running my business. So I decided to focus just on my business.

Who encourages you to create?
I would say my family. My daughter is always wanting me to make her a new Hair Bow. She won't leave the house without one in her hair!

Do you have any advice for other shop owners? Never give up.

Do you have a blog or website?
www.picturetrail.com/stefaniesbownanza

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:

I am very happy where my business is right now. I started making Hair Bows/Headbands a year and a half ago and I would of never imagined this becoming full time for me. What started out as just making Bows for my daughter has turned into a very sucessful business. I supply over 13 Boutiques right now in and out of the Unites States. I have 2 regular customers that own Boutiques in Australia that I supply all their Hair Accessories. Also a Boutique in Denmark. I sell to sellers on Etsy and Ebay who make childrens items and include my Hair Accessories with their items. Things are going great and I couldn't be happier!!

An Interview with StefaniD

2008-09-14T00:00:00.000-04:00

This week's featured artist from our ACE team on Etsy is Stefani of "Frills by Stefani", aka Stefanid http://www.stefanid.etsy.com/. Stefani makes great gift items such as hairbows, quilts, custom ornaments, and unique "Celebration Stockings".

Is there a story behind your shop name?
Not really-I just like frilly things! I didn't know what I was doing with the Etsy name and now I am stuck with it! LOL!

What made you decide to open your own shop?
Customers gave me no choice! I began making things for friends and family and they started taking orders from others and it just progressed from there.

What is your favorite material to use? I am a fabric addict!

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
I am all about the Celebration Stockings! They make a perfect gift for anyone and I can fit so many things inside. Everyone looks forward to digging in their stocking at every celebration!

What are your creative inspirations?
I have never really thought about it. I live in a constant creative mode and I love bright colors-I like to create things that make myself and others smile.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
Crafting is a part of who I am and it certainly feels like a full-time job-I currently have a regular, full-time day job but only to support my crafting habit! I use every spare moment to work on Frills, at times I can coax my family into joining me. They are a great support and don't complain too much about microwaved suppers. I plan on making the leap to full time crafting next year, I am working very hard to build Frills up enough to sustain itself-until then I have to work to support the habit!

Who encourages you to create?
My entire family! I began making small gifts for family and friends and they have constantly pushed me to keep at it since then. They know this has always been my dream and refuse to let me give up-even though I have been tempted a few times.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
Don't give up on doing what you love! Don't ever stop thinking of new ideas and new ways to spin old ideas.

Do you have a blog or website? http://www.frillsbystefani.com/, no blog yet-a little intimidating!!

An interview with SweetBabyKins

2008-09-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

The featured artist this week from our ACE Team is Stephanie of Sweetbabykins. Stephanie designs hair ribbons and accessories for the little princess in your life. You can find Stephanie's designs at http://sweetbabykins.etsy.com/. Here is a sampling of her artistry--(I love the puppy hair clip holder!)

Is there a story behind your shop name?
It's pet name for my youngest daughter who inspires many of my creations.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I just love doing crafts and it's a great way to move my creative juices trying to produce items that will bring as much joy to my customers as they do to me. I love when my daughter wears one of my creations.

What is your favorite material to use?
High quality grosgrain ribbon. Every now and again I find a ribbon either of such rich color or sweet design and quality that I practically swoon. Ribbon is addictive!

What is your favorite item from your shop?
My favorite items are probably my simplest: tuxedo style baby clips. They are adorable on even the smallest of babies and have such a classic design.What are your creative inspirations? My daughters.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
I craft part time. I create late at night or early in the mornings when no one else is awake, and occasionally on weekends.

Who encourages you to create?
My husband and older daughters. They occasionally join me.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
Be positive and make your own luck!

An interview with E.B. Spider

2008-08-31T03:00:00.000-04:00

Brandy from E.B. Spider http://ebspider.etsy.com/ is the featured artist this week from our ACE Team (Amazing Carolina Estians). She makes a lovely array of accessories and gifts. She has her own little boutique right here on Etsy!

Is there a story behind your shop name?
Yes, originally it started out as Etsy Betsy Spider, but after Etsy started saying we needed permission to use the Etsy name, I shortened it to E.B. Spider. After that I thought, it sounds like E.B. White, who wrote Charlotte’s Web, and Charlotte was a spider! Maybe that’s just funny to me though.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I did a few craft shows locally and I didn’t have a lot of luck. I knew I wanted to sell all these crafts I was making and I didn’t know where. One day, I stumbled across Etsy, and thought, oh maybe later. After debating a lot, I decided I’d give it a try. I am a SAHM (stay at home mom), which means a fabulous job but the monetary pay isn’t great. I needed a way to help out my family financially.

What is your favorite material to use?
Yarn! I love to crochet.

What is your favorite item?
My favorite item is the one that took me the longest. That item is my Blooms and Stripes blanket (featured above). It was a casual project that I would pick up every now and then. It took me 3 ½ years to complete it. I love the felt flower I attached to it. It is such a nice touch to the blanket. I spent so much time trying to get it just right and I think I accomplished that.

What are your creative inspirations?
I get inspiration from just about anywhere. I guess my main inspiration is my daughter. I try to think of girly things that she will like once she gets older, which is odd because I’m definitely not a girly girl myself.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
I guess you would say part time, because I’m a full time stay at home mom. I create whenever I can sneak it in, during nap time, while she’s playing, or when she’s in bed for the night. I stay up later than I should!

An Interview With Gone Doggie

2008-08-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

This week's featured artist is Kelly of Gone Doggie http://gonedoggie.etsy.com/. Kelly creates handmade items for our four-legged friends such as collars, coordinating leashes, and blankets. She also makes lovable plush toy dogs. I'm such a sucker for handmade stuffed animals! Kelly also has a blog, http://gonedoggie.blogspot.com/where she talks about the dogs in her life, among other things.

Kelly has a real passion for dogs. She says:

I have three dogs--Gunner, Jorja, and Blue. Gunner is a certified therapy dog. We volunteer with our local school system where we help children with reading difficulties learn to read. I will be testing Jorja in the fall in hopes of getting her certified so she too can be in the schools. One day when my baby, Blue, is mature enough and a little more settled, he too may become a therapy dog.

My ultimate dream is to have my own brick and morter shop where I sell my creations and offer an education center focused on pet education. I want to work with the many local animal organizations reach their goals of stopping euthanasia as a form of animal control and find many wonderful pets loving homes.

Is there a story behind your shop name?
Instead of saying I have gone crazy for dogs my husband would say I have gone doggie!

What made you decide to open your own shop?
I was making many items and donating them to the local animal advocate groups for fundraising events. I really enjoyed doing it and decided that I could make a quality product at a reasonable price and so my shop was born.

What is your favorite material to use?
I love fabric! I am always buying fabric even if I have no idea what I am going to do with it. I know I will come up with something eventually.

What is your favorite item?
My dog collars are my favorite item in my shop. My dog and I teach pet responsibility. The biggest thing people tend to neglect is putting identification on their dogs. If a dog gets lost and is without identification, it can be very difficult to trace the owner. I hope that people will enjoy the patterns of my collars and be inspired to put one with proper identification on their pet.

What are your creative inspirations?
My 3 dogs and all of my clients' pets. I'm always looking to see where there is a need and try to meet that need by creating something.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
I am a crafter part time, I am a pet sitter part time, and I do volunteer work part time, so I keep very busy. I would love to craft full time but I love doing the volunteer work; it is so rewarding.

How do you find time to create?
I stay up late at night after my clients have been taken care of and my dogs are all settled for the evening. I do what I can, when I can get it done. I have this need to constantly be busy, I cannot sit idle for long, so even when watching TV I am crafting.

Who encourages you to create?
My husband. He has allowed me this opportunity to be able to follow my dreams. He is encouraging as he loves my work and goes to every craft show with me. He is my biggest fan and supporter.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
I am still new so I don't think I am in a good position to offer advice. Just love what you do, believe in yourself and don't let anything or anyone step in your way of success.

Laksaware - Featured Etsy Artist of the Week

2008-08-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Our featured artist this week from the ACE team on Etsy is Bernie from Laksaware http://laksaware.etsy.com/. Bernie makes handmade kitchen wares, dining wares, and paperwares, and other cool things. A big congrats to Bernie for her scrubbies (bottom right photo) featured in the New York Times!! Get busy crocheting, Bernie!!!

Is there a story behind your shop name?

Laksaware was inspired by a bowl of curry laksa while we were in Malaysia. While the husband was busy devouring his bowl of laksa and getting dots of curry splashed on his white shirt, we came up with the idea of having a "Laksa T-Shirt". Hence, the name Laksaware. We haven't ventured into selling our own T-shirts here yet.

What made you decide to open your own shop?

We have been itching to do so for a very long time. I love making crafts and keeping my hands busy, so I thought, why not sell them instead of just cluttering up my closet.

What is your favorite material to use?

Right now, it's yarn. But I paint and I love fabric, and I am always trying out something new because there's always something to learn. You might say I have a short attention span.

Talk briefly about your favorite item:

It'll have to be the Laksaware scrubbies right now. I love using them at home and my mom-in-law uses them for most everything. My neighbors also tell me that they love them.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?

Part-time. But I wish I could do this full-time. I need more time really. I multi-task mostly. You'll see me crocheting in front of the TV most nights or before going to bed, or when I am waiting for the water to boil.

Who encourages you to create?

My mom and mom-in-law. And my wonderful husband (even though he refuses to learn how to crochet :)

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?

I am still pretty new at this but I believe that you need to create pieces that you love because crafting should be enjoyable.

An interview with Merriwood Designs

2008-08-11T17:45:00.000-04:00

The featured ACE Team artist this week is Meredith of Merriwood Designs http://merriwooddesigns.etsy.com/. Meredith makes wonderful pouch slings for infants and toddlers.

Here are some items from her shop. She will custom make a sling with fabric of your choice.

Is there a story behind your shop name?

My father in law dubbed me "Merriwood" when I moved to NC (From Washington DC) because he said I needed a "country" name. He still calls me Merriwood.

What is your favorite item?

My favorite item is the pouch sling. I LOVE using mine and I think they're the ultimate under-appreciated baby accessory that new parents must have. They're really easy to use, affordable, decorative, and even help bond with baby.

What are your creative inspirations?

My son's messes.

Are you a crafter full time or part time? part time

How do you find time to create? in between naps

Who encourages you to create? my husband

Tell me any other interesting things about yourself you'd like for me to include in your article:

I go to Elon University and want to work in the substance abuse field (counselor not an abuser lol!). I love my son but we want another female presence in our house so we will probably have kids until we get a daughter, even if that means having 5 more boys first.

ACE Team Guidelines

2008-07-15T13:13:00.005-04:00

If you are new to ACE Team or are just interested in what ACE Team is all about, this is the best place to get public info on our Team!

ACE Team is comprised of sellers/artists/creators from North Carolina who sell on etsy.com. Females and males are welcome to apply. New members are either recruited by the ACE Team Administrators or Etsy members can send in a request to join our team. Team spaces are limited and we will not accept any new members after a certain number has been reached. You can send a message via Etsy conversations to Brandy at http://ebspider.etsy.com/. Once we receive your request, it will take up to 7 days to make a decision on your acceptance to the team.
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Team enrollment & Membership is based on Any (& Possibly All) of the Following Criteria :

You must be a North Carolina resident.
You must be an active selling member on Etsy.com. You must have, and maintain, at least 3 items for sale and go no more than 7 days with an empty shop.
You must be a handmade seller. 50% of your shop must be handmade by YOU. This means that the majority of your items must be made “from scratch.” Repurposed items, commercial supplies, and vintage items are not considered handmade.
You are required to list our team name and blog link in your shop announcement or profile.
You are required to participate in our online Ning group at least once a week. Members who fail to do so, without giving prior notice to the team, will be given a warning. Members will be deleted from the team with the 3rd warning.
You are required to attend one online team meeting per month.
We will only allow up to 3 to 4 shops with similar specialty items. If your shop reflects many different items for sale, this will be taken into great consideration.
If a seller/member receives too many negative feedbacks this will result in expulsion from the team.
If you have multiple shops, you can only join under one shop name, but are welcome to promote your other shops in team events and promotions. You MAY use the team tag, "aceteam", in your other shop's listings.
You MAY NOT use the team tag on supplies, vintage, or any other item that is not at least 50% handmade by you.
Directly copying another member's work is not permitted and will result in immediate expulsion from the team. If you feel you have been copied, please address the team and appropriate actions will be taken from there.
Negative (when unsolicited) or harsh criticism, belittling talk, insulting behavior towards another team member's work or person, or calling out of another team member in any form will be reason for expulsion from the team.
Members are encouraged to attend team events and local shows whenever possible. This helps us promote and support each other.
All forms of artwork and self-expression are welcome on our team. If you are uncomfortable by nudity in art, then this team may not be right for you.
Team members must be 18 and over.

These guidelines are present to maximize productivity for the ACE Team. Honestly, these guidelines are easy to follow. The ACE Team is a relaxed group of individuals who will greatly benefit from following these rules.

As a team, all members will work together. No one person will make decisions for the team as a whole. Once you are a team member, you will have deciding votes on new members, team events, gatherings, and much more.

This team is not for monetary gain. Please notify Brandy if someone contacts you about payments, fees, or dues. Splitting booth fees or other event fees is based on individual members and is completely up to the parties involved. ACE Team administrators are not responsible for event fees and attendance.

This team is here to help promote one another, share event space, and encourage one another. Our goal is to keep the ACE Team productive, friendly, and encouraging.

Please remember to use "aceteam" in your listing tags!

Featured Seller...

2008-07-01T18:59:00.000-04:00

ACE Team is off and running. We have planned to be at several up coming NC events/shows/festivals.

When I was sending out Etsy convos to enlist team members, one local Etsian caught my eye right away. Her shop is lovely. Her items are so eye-catching. And since she has joined the team, I have gotten to know her alittle via convos and blogs, Ning, etc and she is a truly spectacular person. A loving mom and talented individual !

Our first featured seller on the ACE Team is April of aprilsoriginals.

Check out April's shop today ! she has some rocking fabulous bags ! Made with hot designer fabric !!

You go, April !!!

Stay Tuned...

2008-07-01T15:46:00.000-04:00

ACE Team is now an official Etsy.com street team.

This is our public blog for members and non members of ACE Team. You can come here and check out promotions, sales, team events, etc....

Stay tuned for upcoming news and events !