Saturday Artisan: HCM Creations

Meet Heather, our Saturday Artisan! Heather is the artist behind HCM Creations. I haven't gotten an opportunity to meet her personally but her answers to my interview questions has left me with an impression about how wonderful person she is. I can just tell that she is a super nice person and who would not want to get to know someone so nice, right? Plus, her creations are ｓｏ　beautiful! 

Get to know her more shall we? Those smiley face icons are all hers.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?

I love to craft and create! I create hand painted (mostly custom) home decor that are a perfect addition for any room and unique gifts that your friends and family will love. I create painted wooden Letters, Signs, Glass frames, wine/pint glasses, and MORE! 

What is the story behind your shop name?  

I wanted my name to be something simple that could encompass many types of items and something that was easy to remember. HCM Creations was born from my initials and at first only covered painted signs, now it ranges from wood creations to glass and everything in between. If it can be painted, I can create it ;)

Who is your target market?

My target market is anyone who has a place to display wall or home decor as well as anyone in need of a custom or unique gift for any event :)  

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

Painting, since it's almost 100% of my process, is what I enjoy most, making a photo or idea come to live for someone to hang in their home is an amazing feeling. I love seeing the finished product compared to the sketch :)

For us who love to travel, could you share a bit about your beautiful town/ city? 

I live in the Mountains of North Carolina and the weather is BEAUTIFUL! Sometimes it can be a little all over the place and some days you may find that it will be pouring one minute, then snowing the next, then sunny the next. You never know what you're going to get here :) If you want to experience every season to the fullest, then you need to live in the mountains of NC!

 

Could you share on how your organize your products, we all can use a little tips here and there in this department?

Unfortunately as much as I like to organize when I get going, I am a very messy person. I usually keep my paint in one area, brushes in another and products somewhere else so I know how much I have of everything, things have been a little chaotic lately. When I am on track I use small storage bins for everything, they keep things neatly stored without being all over the place.

What is your best seller?

My best seller are my custom name letters and name signs (both for children's rooms and Nursery's) I find that a lot of mom's LOVE custom stuff for baby and children's rooms and seem to sell these better than anything!

How does your day go in general?

Well, I work a 40+ hour day job on top of HCM Creations as well as a design business I started called Krafty Panda Designs so things stay busy in my life. When I am not at my full time job I spend my spare time working on any projects for HCM Creations and KPD when I am able.

How do you balance your personal and work life?

It gets stressful sometimes but then I remember how much I love everything I do and since HCM Creations started as a hobby, it really relaxes me and makes me happy to be making something special for someone.

What inspires you?

Everything! I can just be doing spreadsheets at work and an idea will just pop into my head! It's great :) I try to keep an eye on Pinterest and other businesses to get sparks of unique things I can try ( I NEVER copy anyone's work, I just use them as an idea to go off of and create something brand new!)
 

What is the key to success?

Patience and staying Positive:)


What does handmade mean to you?

Handmade to me means simply, anything you can make with your hands, glass can be molded with your hands and blown into wonderful creations, clothes can be sewn, knitted, crocheted and made all by hand, signs and home decor can be painted by hand or decorated with vinyl or modge-podge all of which can be done by hand. In my opinion, pretty much everything can be handmade and are usually in better condition than items that are made by machines.  

What is your favorite quote, song, or movie?

It would probably be impossible for me to choose just one, I love so many :D

Featured Artisan Lottie's Trinkets

Featured Artist Lotties Trinkets

Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite

This Weeks Featured Artist on Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite is Lise Spence-Parsons of Lotties Trinets!
You will find fabulous, handmade jewelry piece at Lottie's Trinkets! Truly One of a Kind designs that you can wear with pride! Make a statement with a gorgeous jewelry piece by Lise!

FindLise On:

Facebook
Blog
Twitter


Are you On Fire for Handmade? http://onfireforhandmade.com Grab the Code for your Blog HERE

RSS Designs in Fiber Featured Artist

Featured Artist RSS Designs in Fiber

Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite

This Weeks Featured Artist on Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite is Ruth Sandra Sperling of RSS Designs in Fiber! Beautiful Home Decor made with Love by Ruth!

Find Ruth On:

Facebook   Twitter   Blog   Pinterest

Saturday Artisan: Designs by Tracy Brigham

Meet this week Saturday Artisan, Tracy, the artist behind Designs by Tracy Brigham, a shop full of jewelries for any occasion, Wine Glass charms, Napkin Rings, and Hummingbird Feeders.

With the holiday shopping fast approching, you may want to visit her shop and get those wonderful gifts for your loved ones. So many to choose!


Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I have had a career in the banking industry for 23 years, until last year when I decided I was tired of dealing with the politics of Corporate America. I have spent the last year trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. I have one child who is now 22 years old and mostly on her own. (I'm not sure if they are ever completely on their own.) My daughter has been telling me for years that I should sell the items that I make, so I decided to finally do that and opened a shop on Etsy. I have been working with beads and wire as a hobby for about 8 or 9 years. I make Jewelry, wine glass charms, napkin rings, and hummingbird feeders. My favorite things to work with are gemstone beads and sterling silver.



Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?
I enjoy sitting down with the materials I want to use for a project and coming up with a new design.



Could you share on how you organize your products, we all can use a little tips here and there in this department?
I have containers and containers of beads that are stored by color and whether they are gemstones, glass, or crystal. I have learned that for me everything has to have its place or I end up spending more time looking for things than actually creating. I try to keep like items together. Ex: Sterling silver components, silver plated components, jewelry tools, packaging items, etc.


What is your favorite item in your shop?
That is a hard question it changes from day to day. Right now I would say I have two favorites:

My Clear Crystal and Smoky Quartz Asymmetrical Necklace

My Swarovski Bronze Pearl Stretch Bracelet


What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track?
My goal for 2010 was to decide on a new career. I am really enjoying having the time to be creative and hopefully making that into a successful business. I am also applying to nursing school, which I am very excited about. I am definitely on track.

Holiday season is fast approaching. Give us a scoop on your prep. What are you excited to offer for 2010 holiday season?
I am participating in two craft shows in October and December. They will be the first shows that I have participated in, so I am working on displays, packaging, and items. I am excited about offering my Napkin Rings for the 2010 holiday season. People have been very interested in my Napkin Rings for holiday dinners and also as gifts.


What is your favorite tool that you cannot live without?
My jewelry pliers, I would never be able to work with sterling silver and other metals without them.


Stay-tuned for tomorrows new giveaway.
In the meantime, enter the giveaways that we have currently on: Skribblykids and KhaliNouveau's giveaways.

Saturday Artisan: SkribblyKids

Meet this week Saturday Artisan: Joanna of SkribblyKids.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I am a Motion Designer by day, character creator by night. These two tend to work hand in hand sometimes, which always makes things fun! My demo reel is available to look at on my personal site here.

A fun little video I just finished up for a company I'm freelancing for can be seen here.

I had a ton of fun making this retro modern piece! The works I do in the daytime tend to be similar to what I do at night, and vice versa. Right now i'm working on a retro set of greeting cards.


Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?
I love doodling. I doodle all the time, all day long. It's kind of a way of keeping my brain active!

What is your best seller?
My best sellers are my Let's all go to the Lobby characters. I think people really enjoy a little blast from their past.


How do you balance your personal and work life?
Thats a bit of a tough one, but I really do believe in working hard and playing hard :) Sometimes you just have to put the work down and go have some fun!

What inspires you?
I love looking at 50s-60s style drawings. Something is so basic, yet so fresh about this era.

Holiday season is fast approaching. Give us a scoop on your prep. What are you exciting to offer for 2010 holiday season?
Here's a sneak peak at new designs:


Important Links (facebook + website + blog + personal site)


Any tutorial that you’d like to share?

Here's a smooth drawing tutorial I made a while back.

Saturday Artisan: charmeddesign1012

Introducing our Saturday Artisan this week, meet Lori the artist behind Charmeddesign1012.

A great story behind her shop. So touching and it's real. And that's one of so many things that differentiate between handmade and mass-produced products.
It turns out that my favorite is hers as well.
Find out which one as you read the interview below.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I am a 42 Atlanta,GA native that is now living in New Haven, CT. I have lived here a little over two years now. About a year ago, I became ill from an infection that was a side effect of a routine tooth extraction. I came very close to dying, had several life saving surgeries, and am blessed to be here today. My first bracelets came into being as something constructive and positive to do while recovering from this sudden and life threatening illness.

I sell charm jewelry, mostly wrap bracelets made from leather, satin and silk. I use charms that inspire me and make me smile and stones I find beautiful. My jewelry is all about feeling good.


Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?
I love seeing the final product and how my vision is now a reality.

What is your favourite item in your shop?
My favorite item is a silk wrap bracelet.

What is your best seller?
So far, my sales have been varied. I have a lot of pieces in my shop, and I have only been on etsy three months, so I am not surprised I do not yet have a best seller. I do a lot of custom pieces as well.

What inspires you?
Although I lost my job, home, and life as I knew it, surviving such a near death experience has made me feel and believe that I am indeed - CHARMED. My jewelry reflects my experience and love for life. I am inspired by signs and symbols that are all around us and that, if we let them, can uplift and guide us. It can be something as simple as a leaf falling from a tree.


Holiday season is fast approaching. Give us a scoop on your prep. What are you exciting to offer for 2010 holiday season?
This is my first holiday season so I do not know what to expect. I am trying to build up my inventory and I have stocked up on shipping supplies. I am considering whether to offer holiday discounts.

How do you promote your shop?
I am constantly looking for new ways to market my shop I designed a logo, banner, business cards, wrapping that are all cohesive as a brand. I seek out opportunities, like this, to expose my craft to new audiences. I now have a blog and a facebook page. I make treasuries. But, my most important marketing tool is amazing customer service. I try to return emails within an hour, mail items the same day they are bought, wrap them nicely, make changes to pieces for free, anything reasonable that makes my customers happy. I already have had a few sales that were referrals from past customers.


Stay-tuned for tomorrow's giveaway! You don't want to miss out.

For current's handmade giveaway, enter here.

Saturday Artisan: Kelly D Brown Photography and Design

Meet our Saturday Artisan, Kelly, the artist and owner behind beautiful photography shop, kellydbrown. A talented artist from Montreal, Canada, close to home with the exception she is on the east and I'm on the west. :-) Take a peek at her shops and you'll find gorgeous and unique artworks. You should like her FB fanpage. Psst! She shares some promotion codes there. But maybe you may want to stick here a while. It's always a good thing to get to know the artist a little bit.

 

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?

I'm a photographer and digital artist with shops on Etsy and ArtFire. My work is difficult to categorize as a whole (at least for me) since I'm as drawn to grungy urban environments as much as I am to the beauty of nature. I can say that there is definitely a desire to create a certain mood, whether it be light and whimsical or slightly ominous.

Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?

I love reviewing fresh new images I've just captured. This always gets my imagination going. However, it takes a bit of time to determine which image I find inspiring enough to work with. In any one session I may go through many images, trying different techniques until I find something that really feels like it's taking shape. It can be frustrating spending the time and feeling like you're not getting anywhere, but I've come to realize the value of experimentation during this part of the process. Hit the right combination of effects and ending up with something I really love is better than chocolate.

What is your favourite item in your shop? 

I tend to favour my black and white pieces due to the amount of time I spend working on them. Colour can be so seductive - I'm a big fan of hot pinks, deep reds, and turquoise. Once the colour is removed, one must enhance and define the details in a much more creative way. I find the process challenging and therefore, more rewarding.

How do you promote your shop?

I love Twitter. Quite honestly I started out with the intention of promoting my products, but as I started to follow people, I started making some great connections. I've discovered so many great blogs and resources related (as well as unrelated) to my work through them. I can't say if I've actually had any sales as a result, but in many ways promotion has become less important. 

Follow me at http://twitter.com/misskitteh9 

 I also have a Facebook Fanpage which allows me to interact with people via video, pictures and special offers - I love the comments I get!

Anything else you would like to share?

I'd like to give a special shout-out to all of the animals (wild and domesticated) who've been so co-operative in allowing me to photograph them. Most of all, I'd like to thank the people who like my work enough to buy it. It's a really wonderful feeling when I get an email notifying me of my latest sale. In July, I exhibited at the Festival International Montréal en Arts (FIMA). It was my first show and it went extraordinarily well. I've since been invited to participate in Art Westmount 2010. I'll be showcasing my photography at Victoria Hall in Westmount, Quebec on October 2nd and 3rd.

Saturday Artisan: Vector Cloud

Meet Amelia, the artist behind Vector Cloud. Intriquing and unique handmade items that you won't find anywhere else.

Get to know her a little bit through the interview below. Find out how she could have life-work balance, running her Etsy shop while at the same time enjoying her family time.


Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?

My Name is Amelia and I live in Queens, New York. I am a product designer who thoroughly cherish my independence as an “indie” designer and a new mother. When I am not busy creating, I love hanging out with my family and friends, like going out for a picnic, taking my baby and dog to the park, or barbecuing in the backyard with the neighbors.

My Etsy store, Vectorcloud focuses on laser cut/engraved products which range from jewelry to home decors. People have described my products style as being unique, retro, or urban pop.

How does your day go in general?

I have recently been getting up early in the morning to attend my son, Noah, then after enjoying breakfast with my husband, I catch up with emails. My schedule usually depends on how many orders I have to make and mail that day, as well as Noah’s ever changing nap schedule. I then try to get as much housework out of the way, before I begin working on my computer and creating more products. By the evening, I dedicate my time to my family, watching our favorite TV shows, having dinner, and hanging out with my husband and son.

What is your favourite tool that you cannot live without?

A sketchbook and a pen. I always have the need to sketch or simply write my ideas down anywhere anytime.

What inspires you?

Many things inspire me. I especially love old fashioned items, simple everyday objects that once were mundane, but now become so adored and cherished.

Anything else you would like to share?

Besides designing and making my own products, I also do custom work and service. So if you like my work, but can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, I would love to work with you. Email me or visit my store.

Saturday Artisan: Dancing Rain Designs

Meet Lisa of Dancing Rain Designs, our Saturday Artisan!

A new artist in Etsy but no so new in the arts world! You can tell by her beautiful jewelries and arts, created and designed creatively.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I have been a dental hygienist for 25 years. I have two teenagers trying to relieve me of my sanity. Naw they're really pretty good kids. I have been married to an amazingly supportive man for over 20 years. Currently, I make jewelry and mixed media art. A lot of my jewelry has metal elements that I have manipulated in some way.


Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?
I try to read a lot about technique, by way of books, magazines, and internet articles. I designs in my head, I never sketch or draw anything out.

What is your favourite item in your shop?
It's hard to pick, probably anything metal!

What is your best seller?
I'm still so new I really don't have one.

How does your day go in general?
Right now I'm on medical leave so alot of my time gets spent on tweaking my shop or making new designs.


Do you have a favourite Etsy seller?
MaryAnn, of LindenAvenueDesigns, has been fantastic.

What inspires you?
My family,nature,interesting pictures, almost anything.

What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track?
My goal was to set up my etsy shop, and make it successful. Still working on that!

What is your favourite tool that you cannot live without?
Chain nose pliers

How do you promote your shop?
I promote on facebook and have been on some blogs.

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?
Read all you can, especially about SEO's

Anything else you would like to share?
Take a chance! You'll never know if it could have been unless you try.

Stay-tuned for tomorrow's giveaway! But if you haven't entered this week's giveaway (ends tonight), then you should! Win one original size changing pad by HIPpadBaby.

Saturday Artisan: JewelryBySolange

Another great artist on Etsy. Meet Solange of JewelryBySolange, our Saturday Artisan. What a great artist, Solange is, willing to expand on her explanation on how to get organized and to share her favorite sellers.

Read on this great interview I have with her. You'll be sure learn a lot.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?

I was born in Argentina and came to this country when I was 5. I’ve always enjoyed making jewelry at a very young age and pursued it when I had to take an art elective in High School. I took jewelry my 4 years of High School and learned how to use different kinds of metal in my jewelry making & also did a lot of projects with epoxy & clay & really enjoyed it. When I went to college I missed Jewelry class so much and they didn’t really offer a class at the community college so I decided to take a class at the local art workshop. There I learned how to use Sterling Silver and made my very first ring. The rest is pretty much history. I’ve always been able to teach myself through books and videos on youtube. All my pieces are made by me and my fingers! No special machines used in my swirling process. I was just introduced to a wig jig, but haven’t used one yet. I think even though I hate that I’m constantly cutting my fingers and breaking my nails, I’ve become so accustomed to doing the swirling and hammering on my own and I think this is what makes them one of a kind…because you will never find two pieces that look exactly alike.

Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?

I think the best part for me is picking out the colors I’m going to use for each specific piece. Sometimes I’m surprised as to what colors really look great together. When you’re making any craft, I think, you can’t be afraid of colors and trying new things. I’ve learned that something you may not like might be something that someone else really enjoys. So I just try to be creative.

Could you share on how you organize your products, we all can use little tips here and there in this department?

I use plastic boxes. I’ve found the best ones in Wal-Mart that have 32 different compartments. I don’t like the ones where you make your own sections-in my opinion-they don’t work as great. I organize my beads by colors and types. So for instance one box might hold my Swarovski crystals, another box will have my freshwater pearls-you get the idea. I remember when I was younger I would get the huge bag of seed beads that came all mixed together with about a billion colors and I would literally sit there and separate each one by colors so that it would be easier for me to find the color I was looking for while I was beading…yeah my parents thought I was crazy haha…Then I have a separate plastic box for all my tools, wire – separated by using zip lock baggies. I don’t have a studio so they all get stocked on a shelf in my closet.

My supplies are all placed in individual baggies and then I have labeled zip lock bags with the types of beads or supplies I have for sale. For instance: 1 bag for pendants, 1 for pearls, 1 for turquoise, 1 for fabrics and so forth. It makes it so much easier to search for an item because I have sooooo many items in my supply shop. Eventually I had to get a plastic container to put everything because shopping bags were just not working/not enough.

What is your favorite item in your shop?

This is a tough one. Is it fair to say I love all the pieces I make? Well, if I had to choose…at the moment the Masquerade & Royal Princess Earrings with matching Pendants, as well as my Venice Rose Vine Collection Pendant are currently my favorite.

What is your best seller?

Well, I haven’t had this shop for a long time on etsy because I used to have a shop by the name of Custom Jewelry by Solange and used to sell earrings, necklaces, hair accessories, charms, rings, pendants & candles, but have since decided to go a different direction. I started a new shop, new line on etsy and focus on Earrings and Pendants because those have always been very popular in my previous shop.

Do you have a favorite Etsy seller?

I have a lot of favorite sellers actually. Even though I make jewelry myself, I like to get jewelry from other sellers on etsy. For instance, DHElegance makes some amazing dichoric glass rings (My sister, mom and I own a few), as well as Lavendercottage-she makes beautiful jewelry (I have her Labradorite 3-in 1 ring set and matching stud earrings-which I don’t even take off) If you’re looking to buy for your pets, I love the harness I got for my dachshund from PawshCompanions, Petables & Ciaohound make some really yummy doggy treats. If you’re looking to have a personalized photo quilt made try Zemphira…she did an amazing job on a quilt my sister and I got made for my parents anniversary. Try michellesthisandthat for yummy chocolate treats & mabellecherie for clutches-she is an amazing seller & team member. Pinkparchmentsoaps & AngelScents have really great soap creations. I can go on and on, there are just so many people I have shopped from and could recommend. I am part of the JETteam & Petsjubilee team on etsy, and if you do a wide search with those two names, you could find some really amazing shops to buy from.

What inspires you?

Everyone always asks’ me…where does your inspiration come from and well, even though it should be the easiest question to answer, for me it’s the hardest. I usually have random ideas pop in my head. Different patterns and colors, sometimes I just open my bead boxes and poof, I have an idea. I’ve never, ever used a sketch pad to create my pieces, as weird as that sounds. I mostly create at night. If I have an idea, I have to get my beads out right away and create. If I’m not around my beads, I just try to keep the idea in my head until I am able to create or maybe make a note of the colors I want to use together.

How do you promote your shop?

I have a blog where I promote my shop as well as other shops on etsy. I have a facebook, myspace, indiepublic, twitter & flickr acct. I spend some time on the etsy forums. I currently have my own thread going on, which will actually be 2 years this june and have made some amazing friends. Word of mouth. I have found that doing jewelry displays in my driveway are much more successful then doing them in a craft show-not to mention it’s free and I don’t have to pay for space. I love doing private one-on-one shows with friends and I think my friends enjoy them the most, which is why they’re always requested. I try to have giveaways on my blog and facebook, as well as do blog features and giveaways on other blogs to get myself out there.

Stay tuned for tomorrow's giveaway sponsored by Solange!!

Saturday Artisan: edwardandlilly

Meet this week Saturday Artisan, Rebecca of edwardandlilly. Her shop is full of Embroidery, homewares, soft toys and brooches handmade in Brisbane, Australia. 

What distinguish her shop from others are the originality and the eco-friendly materials she uses. Read on and learn how to be inspired and good to your environment at the same time. 

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts you make?

I've always worked in the arts and a few years ago I decided to replace study with something creative. I always wanted to make my own clothes so started teaching myself to sew. At first I was making little soft toys for my nieces, these eventually led to sales and edward & lilly was born.

My focus now has shifted slightly more toward embroidery but the softies are still around. I love the handmade community both online and in my home town of Brisbane, I'm a member of the BrisStyle Etsy Street Team and the Brisbane chapter of Brown Owls where I've met some fabulous crafty friends.

Which part of the creation process that you like to do the most?

I love it when tiny details turn out even better than first intended, I love the way a little softie develops its own personality as soon as the face is stitched on and I love seeing my little critters transition from pencil and paper to fabric and thread.

Could you share on how your organize your products, we all can use a little tips here and there in this department?

I always have a number of production lines going for each product, I try to work on one a week but it depends on orders, demand etc. My crafty space is pretty tiny so these are usually stored in containers and boxes. They have to be easy to access so I can whip them out at a moment's notice, even if I only have 5 minutes to spare I know there is always something on hand to cut, stitch or pin.

What is your favourite item in your shop?

Right now it's my new zipper pouches although there's always a special place in my heart for the little faces of Cuddly Cats.

What is your best seller?

For a long time it's been embroidered brooches but more recently tissue cosies have been in demand. Lavender Scented Birds are also a popular item with my stockists.

How does your day go in general?

Because I work full-time and have pretty busy weekends I try to make the most of every day. Computer work is done at meal times and on lunch breaks, I walk everywhere so that's my thinking time for ideas, problem solving or new product designs, creative time is usually between 7-11 pm, I like to take product photos in the morning before work when the sun is at its best and any other bit of time I can squeeze in is spent creating, even a spare 5 minutes before heading out the door is valuable. If I feel the need to watch a great show on tv or a movie it's always with a pile of embroidery in my lap. I love being busy, I wouldn't have it any other way ;)

Do you have a favourite Etsy seller?

There's so many it's crazy, I recommend checking out my Etsy favourites and my blog for some great finds. This week I'm loving Little Viking Girl.

What inspires you?

My nieces are all animal lovers and are the main inspiration behind my softies, their reaction to them is all that matters because then I know that a little girl walking by a Cuddly Cat at market won't be able to resist pointing it out to her Mum.

The major inspiration for my designs and material choices is nature. I'm constantly inspired by the shape of birds, the patterns on a fish, the delicate nature of flowers, cute little critters and the texture of natural fibres. Sketching these beautiful things is one thing, stitching them gives me a whole new respect for the natural world around me.

What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track?

My goal for 2010 is to create more one-off embroidery pieces to add to my current product line. I have two series on the go at the moment, one of the embroidered Australian fish species and the other is more figurative. I think owning a unique piece that you know no one else will ever have is a very special thing. Being kind to myself, animals and the environment is also high on my list of goals for this year.

What is your favourite tool that you cannot live without?

My little white plastic embroidery hoop, it stretches fabric perfectly, it's small enough to embroider a scrap of fabric and it fits in my little portable craft-on-the-run container in my bag.

How do you promote your shop?

The obvious ones are my blog, Twitter and Facebook.

The most important ones are being genuinely involved in the craft community, word of mouth, a high-quality product, lovely customer service and all the others things that lead to repeat business.

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Be true to your creative self. It's the only way to love what you make and to create a product that sets itself apart from the competition.

Saving money is important, tell us one thing that you do to save money?

Buy handmade or second hand as much as you can, and have a go at switching to a plant-based diet, everything else will fall into place.

Saturday Artisan: Tbeads

What a better way to start celebrating Canada Day than featuring one of our great Canadian artists? Meet Tracey of Tbeads from Winnipeg. 

Her works focus on handmade wire wrapped jewelry with semi precious beads, glass and crystal - necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings and earrings - warm, natural, earthy and beautiful.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?

Accountant by day, jewelry maker by night! I make rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings with wire and stone mostly. It amazes me that these basic elements are so beautiful and multidimensional. I especially enjoy the colour, depth, variety and weight of stone. My family has been involved with my Etsy shop - providing lots of encouragement. My talented husband takes the pictures and even built a light box to get them just right. My son helps with shipping and contributes ideas towards design.

Which part of creation process that you like to do the most? I find designing the most challenging and the most irritating and the most rewarding. But I also enjoy learning new skills - although I haven't taken any classes - for me its all trial and error, trying to translate what I see in my mind's eye into a finished piece. Lately I have been working mostly on perfecting spirals and hammering wire. What I love the very most is when something goes wildly different from where I thought it was going and by some miracle it works. 

What is your favourite item in your shop? My favourite item is this ring.  I love the warmth of the bronze wire against the sparkle of the fire agates. I think the combination of bronze and orange is unique and feels special to me. Another of my favourites is this necklace.

My mother gave me a vintage string of black beads that I took apart and made into several pieces that are now in my shop. She was so inspired that she has been buying up all the jewelry at the local thrift shop - and giving them to me! I am not sure what to do with them all... yet 

What is your best seller? I am pretty new to selling online - I haven't been selling long enough to discern a pattern. I especially love to make the rings, but I understand that they can be hard to sell online because of the sizing. I have been putting the ring sizes in, but I plan to to add in the inside dimensions so people can measure their finger with a measuring tape or a string. 

What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track? 

My first shop goal for 2010 was to create and post a new item every day. And my second goal was to build my shop inventory to 150 items. Now I am looking at some of the older posts and applying what I have learned in the forums about cropping pictures and tagging. I also did a craft show and plan to do another one in the fall. I feel like I have learned so much since I opened my shop on December 19, 2009! I have had so many people give me comments and even had a full critique. To me, its all about learning and growing and sharing and I am definitely on the right track there.

Way to go Tracey! I admire your work and your dedication to learning more each and every day. 

Stay tuned for tomorrow's giveaway!

Saturday Artisan: Angela Kay Designs

Meet this week Saturday Artisan, Angela of Angela Kay Designs. You know that I'm all about cuteness and this store is all about it! Once you're at her shop, it's hard not to say 'aww' every time you make a click. 

In her own words, I was inspired to own my first sewing machine after the birth of my daughter... Little Miss Ava. After teaching myself to sew and countless hours I put into my obsession with beautiful fabrics, I decided to open my business and share my obsession with others who love beautiful fabrics. I offer unique aprons for women and children, as well as a multipurpose clutch to be used by all women.

My favorite item in the store is my clutch. I love that it is an accessory that can be used by any woman to dress up their wardrobe... nothing like a pretty clutch to add a little fun to an outfit. I designed it with mommies in mind because I really disliked carrying the typical boring diaper/wipes bags. This is the perfect trendy item to carry diapers/wipes. Mommies stop me whenever I pull it out :)

My favorite tool has to be my sewing machine! Because I had to teach myself to sew, it has been the best machine for the sewing novice.

My bestseller is the Alexander Henry Apples and Pear apron. It is a darling print that brings color and fun to the baking experience.

So what are you waiting for? Hop over to Angela Kay Designs and I'll be sure you'll find something for the cute girls (and boys) you have. And what the heck, YOU deserve to get a beautiful pouch, trendy accessories that is a must-have.

Saturday Artisan: Baby Chick Designs

Wonderful Saturday Artisan this week is Baby Chick Designs. If you're planning to decorate little one's room, then you may want to visit this great shop to get something special and personalized.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
We make canvas wall art, fine art prints, and growth charts for nurseries and children’s bedrooms/playrooms. My mother is the artist and I handle all of the business side of things! When I was re-decorating my little girl’s room, my mother decided to make some watercolors for her. They were these beautiful barnyard animals designs (which is now our Barnyard Animal Collection.) I knew right away that we should go into business and make these designs available for other families to enjoy at an affordable price.

What is your favourite item in your shop?

My favorite item in our shop right now is the “Safari Giraffe Growth Chart.” This is also one of the most popular designs and the fine art print and canvas wall art Giraffe sells well too!

What is your best seller?

Our best sellers are the Safari Animals Collection, Butterflies with Flowers Collection, and the Transportation Collection. We make our collections in 3’s…so people tend to buy all three designs in a collection for their children’s rooms.

What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track?

Our goal for 2010 is to have 10 total collections available for purchase. I think we can make it to nine of those! It is important to have a variety of art for our shop…so people can have lots to choose from. Since it takes my mother 2 months to make a collection, it’s not as fast as other handmade sellers.

What is your favourite tool that you cannot live without?

We just bought a grommet machine for our growth charts…that we cannot live without!

How do you promote your shop?

Facebook, Twitter, my blog, being active in the Etsy forums, and word of mouth!

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Communication, fast shipping, and good photos are key! Since you are not in front of the customer to sell your work, these things have to be a priority!

Saving money is important, tell us one thing that you do to save money?

We do all of our own shipping, we buy shipping supplies only when needed, and we’ve negotiate good prices with our vendors!

Any tutorial that you’d like to share, pretty please?

Take quality photos of your work in natural light, then edit them in Picasa, a free software program that you can download to your computer. Use the lightening, highlighting, and shadow features to tweak the photos for the best possible photo.

Here are ways to be in touch with Baby Chick Designs:
Website: http://www.babychickdesigns.com/
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/babychickdesigns
Twitter: http://twitter.com/babychickdesign
Facebook Fan: http://www.facebook.com/BabyChickDesigns

Stay-tuned for tomorrow's giveaway!

Spotted Tuesday: Ocean Breeze

I'm sitting by the beach, sipping pina colada while watching little one playing making sandcastle with his dad. The breeze....ahh...so refreshing!

Oh wait! I'm just daydreaming now. Lol. But it certainly can become a reality, don't you think? Afterall, that dream is not so much to ask.

In the meantime, I invite you to pleasurely enjoy the beauty of these findings.

1st row from the left:

Knobby Urchin Bead by humblebeads

Seahorse pair by karmelidesigns

Shabby Cottage Decor by SignsofVintage

2nd row from the left:

Seaside Vacation by BethanyRoseDesigns

Silver Octopus Necklace with Flowers by ReneeLoughlin

Florida Seashore on Canvas - 8x10 by lyoungstudio

Saturday Artisan: Gilliauna

Meet this week Saturday Artisan, Zoie of Gilliauna, a talented artist that doesn't live too far from me and what a small world that we yet met through Etsy.

She has so much advise to share and they're GREAT advise! Find ways to promote your products effectively without breaking the bank. I have been doing work and they're surely helping me.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I'm a self-taught jewelry designer in Vancouver, BC who works with a friend (Leal in Seattle, WA) to run a budding online business, Bits n Beads by Gilliauna

I create colorful, quality jewelry that's carefully designed to be affordable (and wearable!) for the everyday woman.

I use a variety of different types of beads and styles in my work in order to create a unique and colorful style and personality for each piece. I often use vintage beads in my work, as well, and feel that doing so often can lend a uniqueness to a piece that you can't otherwise find.

What is your favourite item in your shop?
My favorite changes daily. Sometimes hourly! At this exact moment, it's one of our newest pieces. A bracelet made of mother of pearl, coral and aventurine.


What is your best seller?
It's hard to say. I've sold a wide variety of different pieces since starting out on Etsy and there doesn't seem to be a trend there towards any one category. As far as individual pieces go, I'd have to say this one: Between online and offline, it's definitely resonated as a favorite for my customers.

How does your day go in general?
I get up in the morning and sit down at the computer to get my online time in. Usually about an hour or so where I work solely on the laptop without interruption. I'll then go take a shower, make breakfast, go for my morning walk, etc. If I have errands to run, I'll get those done too. In the afternoon, I sit down and create, take product pictures, work on getting things organized or some other task that's creative related but doesn't involve the computer. In the evening I package up orders then get on the computer to do more of the online tasks that keep things running smoothly.


Do you have a favourite Etsy seller?
I have lots and LOTS of favorite Etsy sellers. As for personality and a wonderful person -behind- the shops, tho, I'd have to go with Loren at FruitOfTheBloom, Jo Ann at Pottery123 and Lori at Dean Dyment Studios. Each of these women are wonderful, talented and supportive people that are friendly and have terrific personalities to boot. I'm honored (and it's a pleasure) to know each of them.

What inspires you?
I believe that the colors that surround us add an extra level of beauty and richness to each and every day of our lives. There are many times when color isn't just seen, it's experienced through more than one or even all of the senses and even the emotions.

Colors can lift you up, calm you down. Make you happy or sad. People often feel as if certain colors have a flavor, scent or "feel" to them.

It's color and the sensations and emotions that they create that are my inspiration in my work. I absolutely LOVE working with color and I love the idea that I can add extra color into the lives of those that wear the jewelry I've made. I feel that it's my way to reach out to others and make each of their days just a little brighter and a little more enjoyable.

What is your goal for 2010?
I'm working on building up a loyal, steady customer base. We (Leal and I) just started selling online in October of 2009, so we haven't even been up and running six months yet. Over the year, I'd like to develop a relationship and rapport with return customers as well as garner the interest of new ones. We're working on this by taking efforts to become more visible both on and off the handmade marketplace.

What is your favourite tool that you cannot live without?
I have a pair of old jewelry pliers that use to belong to my father. I swiped them out of his tool box a little over a decade ago. I love them. The quality and craftsmanship of these pliers is far better than those you can buy in today's market.

How do you promote your shop?
We do a little of everything. A little bit of (inexpensive) paid advertising. Plus a Facebook Fan Page plus Twitter. Plus free advertising wherever we can find it.

Any advice for a newbie running his or her on-line shop?
My best advice is that everyone gets frustrated and discouraged when you're setting up an online business. Don't let that feeling get in your way. Work -through it- and keep on plugging along at what you've set your end goals as. You'll get there, and in time that feeling will lift and you'll be better for having worked through it rather than letting it keep you down.

During this recession time, tell us one thing that you do to save money?
I shop around **a lot** for my supplies, searching for the best prices I can find. I also do a lot of shopping for supplies to recycle and re-purpose at places that give back to the community like the Salvation Army, GoodWill and local church-ran thrifts.

Anything else you would like to share? I absolutely adore working with a customer to create custom, personalized pieces especially for them or for their loved ones. Some of the pieces I'm most proud of were commissioned in this manner. I'm always happy to take inquiries and answer questions.

Any tutorial that you’d like to share, pretty please?
You can find the occasional tutorials on our Live Journal blog.


Be sure to stay tuned for tomorrow's giveaway sponsored by Gilliauna.