Saturday Artisan: Curlitude

Meet Najeema Iman of Curlitude, our Saturday Artisan.

Curlitude is a handcrafted jewelry and accessories company that strives to create one of kind wearable art to accent natural beauty and style and made in the USA.

I love the tribal and ethnic look of her creations. The fun colors and shapes draw me to keep clicking each link to see them more in details.

Let's get to know her more, shall we?

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

I am a stay-at-home mother of two who has always loved all things art. The majority of my work is uniquely created from multiple layers of paper.  My inspiration comes from all around, but I absolutely love all types of tribal prints.  

What is the story behind your shop name?  

Curlitude is an expression of loving your authentic self, it was created to encourage people to embrace their natural beauty and style.

Who is your target market?

My customers range from as young as 10 to as old as 70, everybody can rock a little curlitude.

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

Coming up with new designs, patterns, the feel of the materials in my hands.

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

I am native Detroiter, though I was born in Queens, New York I lived in Detroit all of my life. I am city girl by nature, currently living in Lansing, the capital of Michigan.  I may live in Lansing but my heart will always be in Metro Detroit, where I do the majority of my shows.

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

I like to keep it simple. Pop Classics are my earrings that are inspired by vintage pop culture icons, Necklaces, Rings, Bangles, Bracelets, and Hair Accessories coming soon.

What is your best seller?

Pop Classic Icon Earrings

How does your day go in general?

Drop the kids off at school, clean up around the house, and create.

How do you balance your personal and work life?

I don't balance well, but I am working on it.

What inspires you?

Everything.

What sets you aparts from your competitors?

I have a little something for everyone. I love color no matter what time of year it is.

What is your goal for 2014?  And are you on the right track?

To become more organized, create new products using recycled and vintage materials. I would also like to continue to connect with my previous customers.

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Promote, Promote, Promote. Have great pictures and a wide range of products.

What does handmade mean to you?

Not mass produced unique one of a kind wearable arts and crafts.

If you could invent a machine, what would it be?

A machine that could connect to my brain and create all my designs in an instant.

You can find Najeema here:

www.instagram.com/curlitude

www.twitter.com/curlitude

www.facebook.com/curlitude

www.curlitude.tumblr.com 

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway? Here is how to apply.

Countdown to Christmas 2014 - Week 1

Ready or not, it's just 95 days left until Christmas. 

Julie and Blu has invited us again  this year to join Countdown to Christmas Link up. Week 1 is here. The rule is very easy. In fact, there is only  ONE RULE - You must promote all the items posted as soon as the posting closes. If you have a blog, please hop this blog and promote each item to one social network, preferably Pinterest or Wanelo where we can see the item. Twitter and Facebook are fine, they just do not show the item.

Seems daunting? I have participated last year, and believe me that this task is so rewarding. 

Here are the highlights based on the colors I chose for this week: golden, beige, blue, and black.

Peacock Druzy Nuggets Handmade Necklace Red Garnet Gemstone Rainbow by ShadowDogDesigns

Israel 10 New Sheqalim Bi-Metallic Coin Pendant 14kt Chain Necklace by dianesdangles

Bracelet Bangle Beaded Net Black Swarovski Crystal Gold Metallic Seed by jazzitupwithdesignsbynancy

Dark Navy Denim Blue Sodalite Earrings Long and Dangling Lever Backs by Thesingingbeader

Copper Dangle Aqua Czech Glass Carnelian Handmade Earring OOAK Jewelry by PrettyGonzo

Navy Blue Coasters and Matching Napkin Rings, Peach and Blue Beads by TheTwistedRedhead

Kyanite Handmade Necklace Swarovski Crystal Banded Agate OOAK by SolanaKaiDesigns

Turquoise, Gold Timepiece Watch Charm Adjustable Bracelet by jnldesigns

Vintage Inspired So Thankful Thank You Tags by Adorebynat

Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment, share this post by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Crafters' Top Picks, Fall Must-Haves List and Halloween Must-Haves

Hello friends!
I've been teaming up with other shops to come up with Crafters' Top Picks, Fall Must-Haves List and Halloween Must-Haves. Thanks to Bethany from Down With Plumes who led and wrote these wonderful articles. Bethany was our Saturday Artisan in May.

Below are the highlights and I encourage you to click on each link to go to the original post and you will see a lot of wonderful handmade products. 

On the Crafters' Top Picks, we have Weil'd Hair and Accessories,  Sweet Pistol Rose, Sweet Pea Designs by Dee, Picots & Mimosas, Nerdtastic, Handmade Moms LLC, Down with Plumes, Camille's Charms, BeeBee and Jack, and Adore by Nat

On the Fall Must-Haves List, we have Picots&Mimosas, Magnolia Blossom Crochet,  Down with Plumes,  Sweet Pea Designs by Dee, W(e)il'd Hair & Accessories, Corvid Castle, It's Only Natural,  EKayG Crafts, Adore by Nat, and Lindsay's Secret Closet.

On the Halloween Must-Haves, we have Adore by Nat,  BeeBee and Jack, Down with Plumes, Handmade Moms LLC, Picots & Mimosas, Sweet Pea Designs by Dee, Sweet Pistol Rose, and Weil'd Hair and Accessories

Want to join this awesome group called Down with Plumes' Blog Group? You can find us here. 

Giveaway from Ribbit Gifts: Peace Sign Cord Bracelet

Win this beautiful peace sign cord bracelet.

Learn more about Cristina, the artist behind this great shop, here on Saturday Artisan post.  

Number of winner: 1 (One)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest starts now and ends on October 3, 2014. Contest opens US and Canada (Free Shipping to US only). Open to Legal Residents (18 years of age or older). Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you. Entries without contact information will be disqualified. Entries that do not follow the rules will be disqualified. Contest winner will be drawn on October 4th. Winner will be selected by Random.org and be notified by e-mail. Adorebynat is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. I have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prizes and in a timely manner. Winner must respond within 48 hours after being contacted otherwise another winner will be randomly selected. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

Don't forget to check out other current giveaway here.

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway?

Saturday Artisan: Ribbit Gifts

Meet Cristina, our Saturday Artisan. She is the owner and artist behind Ribbit Gifts. Cristina specializes in everyday jewelry. She also support and giving back to her local community. 

Let's get to know her more, shall we?

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

I make cute stud earrings and everyday jewelry. A necklace, bracelet and earrings the can be worn any day and for any occasion.

What is the story behind your shop name?  

I've been a lover of frogs since birth. So, Ribbit Gifts just seemed fitting :)

Who is your target market?

My jewelry is not geared toward any one specific person. I have jewelry for kids, teens, 20 somethings, moms and grandmothers :)

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

I enjoy shopping for the charms I use.

For us who love to travel, could you share a bit about your beautiful town/ city? 
I live in Arlington, TX. Home of the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers and Six Flags. There's so much to do here.

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

I have bins and bins full of organized charms. I keep all shipping supplies together in a box with easy access to each part that I need.

What is your best seller?

My best sellers are my Starbucks Necklace and all of my animal themed bracelets.

How does your day go in general?

I check for orders in the morning. Get all of the supplies necessary. Get each piece done in the order I received them. Package them and mail them out. I have scheduled times where I do marketing through social media throughout the day.

How do you balance your personal and work life?

I schedule all of my marketing through social media which allows me to not be tied down to the computer. After my orders are prepared and sent out in the morning I spend quality time with my toddler. We go to the park, the library, swim in the backyard and just play.

What inspires you?

My daughter inspires me. I strive to show her how important creativity is and to do what you love.

What is your goal for 2014?  And are you on the right track?

My goal is to continue to profit and donate 15% of my sales each month to charities and organizations near and dear to my heart. So far, I'm on track and hope it continues.

What is the key to success?

dedication and being unique

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Be patient. Success does not happen overnight for most. I barely made sales online my first year. Now, I have almost 300 sales in year 2. It just takes time and dedication.

What does handmade mean to you?

Handmade means unique, one of a kind items made with love.

You can find Ribbit Gifts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway? Here is how to apply.

Oh Happy Mails

Receiving snail mails (with the exception of bills!) is pretty exciting!

I was patient enough waiting to see these goodies. They arrived months before me, so opening them all at once is just like opening presents at a Christmas day all over again. 

Be warned! I will show you a lot of amazing products. Please don't drool! Tee hee! And if you love them, you know where to get them. Links to the shops are provided below.

These stamps and washi tapes are treats for me. I have ton of stamps already and most of them are still unopened. But as one that has a serious hobby, you would understand, wouldn't you? 

I also bought myself a birthday present from one of the amazing jewelry artists, Aya of Aya Designs. I truly love her designs.  

Not too long ago, I purchased these cute necklaces and bracelet from my buddy, Zei of Pelhuaz by Red.

Check out this beautiful flower charm from Pelhuaz and adorable pink owl from Unique Creations by Tracy.

I was lucky enough to win this cute Wezen by J by G's giveaway, hosted at Pelhuaz's blog. I'm going to put it on my desk. I think it will do a very good job in cheering me up whenever I feel my day is not as good as I'd like it to be.

Networking with other business owners are rewarding. When you have a small business and your marketing budget is so limited, working with others is the best way to go. Interacting with others such as commenting their FB statuses, helps you to be seen as well. When they do a giveaway, you participate by entering and spreading the word. Who know, maybe you are lucky and you get to be the winner. 

This beautiful scarf is from Alesia of Green Barn Yarn and Gifts (previously known as Sew Accessible).

These pretty earrings are from Catherine of Shadow Dog Designs. Catherine is an amazing lady and her creations are one of a kind, beautiful and made with only high-quality material. Such a blessed to have a friend like her.

This cute monster plush is from Cody of Lu & Ed. It was made based on my little guy's drawing. Truly one-of-a-kind!

In addition, I received this goodies bag. What not to love? Such a pleasure being in this amazing community. These are from my favorite handmade shops! Some I come to know as wonderful virtual friends.



Now, who is not going to love Pedra, the lion? Kelly of Kiser Krafts is the amazing creator.



Pedra is so cheerful and a perfect companion for my little guy. He said she is pretty. :-)

Last but not least, look what I got in the mail the other day, a surprise bag from Violetsbuds. Pretty, pretty, and pretty!

I want to thank all these ladies for creating beautiful products. I'm honored to be the recipient. 

If you are looking for a gift for yourself or loved ones, I highly recommend those shops above. Their products are one-of-a-kind, created with passion and I guarantee you that you get superb customer service. 

Giveaway from Strega Jewellry: Set of 7 Earrings

Ready for another GIVEAWAY? 

One lucky winner will win a set of  You-Nique Earrings from Lee of Strega Jewellry. These are only available on Strega Jewellry as far as I know. You just don't get just a pair of earrings! You-Nique earrings is a set of 7 different earrings in a color palette based on Pantone's palettes in the book, Communicating With Color. Each palette reflects a different mood or personality type. There are the Playful, Dramatic Black, the Cool, the Warm Palette, the Woodsy or Earthy, the Romantic palette, etc. The idea is to suit the palette to the colors you wear the most. With 7 different earrings, you wear mismatched pairs and by doing this, you can end up with 21 different combination. Lee call them You-Nique Earrings and they are for folks who like to be daring and different. The set you win will be based on your color palette choices, not necessarily the palette shown. 

Check her blog to see examples of each palette (psst! She's having a giveaway there too!).

Learn more about Lee, the artist behind this great shop, here on yesterday's Saturday Artisan post. 


a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest starts now and ends on August 18, 2014. Contest opens US and Canada. Open to Legal Residents (18 years of age or older). Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you. Entries without contact information will be disqualified. Entries that do not follow the rules will be disqualified. Contest winner will be drawn on August 19th. Winner will be selected by Random.org and be notified by e-mail. Adorebynat is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. I have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prizes and in a timely manner. Winner must respond within 48 hours after being contacted otherwise another winner will be randomly selected. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

Don't forget to check out other current giveaways here.

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway?

Here is how to apply.

Saturday Artisan: Strega Jewellry

Meet Lee, the owner and artist of Strega Jewellry. Lee offers unique handmade jewelries. Her You-Nique Earrings are something that you rarely see in other shops. Let's get to know her more, shall we?

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

I suppose I am a "jack of all trades", have tried my hand at many things, am a knitter, do kumihimi, Chinese knots, macramé and sew but my most favorite past time is making jewelry. I started out taking wire wrapping classes at the Art Center here in Dayton and ended up as an instructor in the Arise program. I continued classes and fell in love with metal clay for a while, dabbled in polymer, but always come back to wire. It's such a versatile media. I'm happy to learn the other things because I can use them all.  

What is the story behind your shop name? 

I am pagan. Originally I wanted a target market of wiccans and needed a name that would mean something to that particular group. I also did not want something too witchy because it's scary to some people who do not know about nature based religions and think that Wiccans are devil worshipers so I I doodled around with earthy names and blue moons and fairy names and finally settled on Strega which is an Italian word for witch. 

Who is your target market?

When I started, I had a target market in mind, the metaphysical group who love natural stones and stone lore and pieces that reflected a certain spiritual inclination. Then, I grew outward from wire wrap and learned new things and had so much fun, I make all kinds of things. Now, I think that has changed and I target folks who like bold and unusual items, one of a kind.  

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

I LOVE finding or making a focal or beads and then dreaming up what I am going to do with them. I love sketching out a design and even if the idea falls apart and I have to back up and dream up something new, I love that part of it. I love finding the beads and wire components that fit together, rummaging through my stash for beads, browsing books or tutorials for links or components that will really set off a piece.  

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

Did you say "organize"? Wait, I may have to go look that word up.

What is your best seller?

I sell more earrings than anything else. After that, I would have to say stone pendants.

How does your day go in general?

I try to have a plan. I take care of my son's 3 boys while he works so I have to work around their schedule. Usually mornings are for "around the house" stuff. If I have pictures to take, or pieces that need hammering, I get them involved so I am not ignoring them. Even the 3 year old knows what to get when I say "I need the bench block, the chasing hammer and leather" and he can help if I am using a rubber hammer. They love doing things with me.
After lunch, when it is "rest period" I sketch or sort beads for a project work on my blog or list items. After they leave, it's me, my beads and wire. Not a lot of time but we work it out.  

What inspires you?

I'm inspired by the natural world, the colors, the stones, ancient stone lore and the general "feel" of a rock in my hand or the earth under my feet. I'm inspired by music some times. A song or tune will get stuck in my head and I will wonder what it would "feel" like if I put it to beads.  

What is the key to success?

Perseverance  

What does handmade mean to you?

Hand made is time and energy and love all poured into creating something by one's self, or as much by one's self as possible. It's taking the time for details and not turning out pieces that look just like every one else's work.  

What is your favorite quote, song, or movie?

Apache proberb: make my enemy strong, so that if I am defeated, I need not be ashamed. My favourite song is Little Wing.



Connect with Lee here: 

https://twitter.com/stregajewellry

http://www.pinterest.com/stregajewellry/

https://www.facebook.com/StregaJewellry

http://stregajewellry.wordpress.com 

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway?

Here is how to apply.

Spotted Tuesday: Puppy Inspired

Happy Tuesday!

I recently made these cute dapper dog tags and I maybe biased but I find them too darn cute. The chevron background added a modern touch to it. These doggie gift tags are available on my Artfire shop. Click on the image and it'll bring you to the listing. Furthermore, enjoy 30% off when you purchase these tags or anything in my shop. Simply use the coupon code MIDYEARSALE when you check out. Sale starts today to July 1, 2014.

Inspired by these cute puppy tags, I found some cute and pretty products on Artfire and Storenvy. They are perfect for dogs and their owners. Click on the images to go to the individual shop.

Polymer Clay Puppy Dog Animal Shaped Fake Gauge Stud Earring in Brown by DOTOLY - Unique Animal Jewelry

 

ACU KP Bow Tie by The Knotty Boutique Company

 
Let's spread the love! Share this post using one or a few social media icons found on the bottom of this post please. Leave me a comment and that would certainly brighten up my day :-)

Spotted Tuesday: Pretty and Hot

Happy Tuesday!
The weather lately has been a bit crazy over here. It's supposed to be hot and dry but the rain comes to visit recently, which I don't mind actually. I would rather be cold than hot. 

Outside is wet and cloudy and I thought choosing pretty and hot colors will brighten up my day and hopefully yours too. 

Here are some beautiful products found on Artfire and Storenvy, handmade and non-handmade. I love handmade products. I also support small businesses regardless they are handmade or not. I myself have a handmade shop and a non-handmade shop. Those keep me busy!

Check out these amazing shops! If you are looking for accessories for yourself or your little ones, these shops are worth checking out!

Mini-Pouch in Hot Pink Squeeze by Sew Beastly

 




  

Ruffled Hot Pink Polka Dot Panty Underwear with Black Lace by Flirt and Flair 

Quilted Black Chevron Duffle with Hot Pink by Lila Janes

10 pcs Hot Pink Colorshine Makeup Brush Set with Pouch by Sweet Stuff!

Cute Funny Onesie by Celebrity Cotton

Let's spread the love! Share this post using one or a few social media icons found on the bottom of this post please. Leave me a comment and that would certainly brighten up my day :-) 

Giveaway from Jajejems: Gauthier Necklace

Win this beautiful handmade necklace from JaJeJems! One lucky winner will be chosen randomly.

Jessica made this piece and called it Gauthier because it reminded her of the perfume of the same name!  She was inspired in the colour scheme by 3 of my handmade glass beads in blue and pink.  She used blue aluminum wire to wrap a piece of white sea glass for the pendant which also includes a handmade glass bead. The chain is made with pink and blue wire and each section of the chain is a zigzag pattern with alternating colours.  The necklace fastens with a complimentary handmade hook and measures 18" with the pendant measuring 2". The finished piece is light weight and  would be a fun to wear for casual or dress-up.  It is valued at $35.

Learn more about JaJeJems, the artists behind this great shop, here on yesterday's Saturday Artisan post. 



a Rafflecopter giveaway


NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest starts now and ends on June 3, 2014. Contest opens to US and Canada). Open to Legal Residents (18years of age or older). Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you. Entries without contact information will be disqualified. Entries that do not follow the rules will be disqualified. Contest winner will be drawn on June 4th. Winner will be selected by Random.org and be notified by e-mail. Adorebynat is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. I have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prizes and in a timely manner. Winner must respond within 48 hours after being contacted otherwise another winner will be randomly selected. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. 

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway?

Here is how to apply.

Saturday Artisan: JaJeJems

It's my pleasure to feature fellow Canadian artists. Meet Janis and Jessica, our Saturday Artisans! They are the two ladies are mother and daughter, the artists behind JaJeJems.  It is my dream to visit Newfoundland and Labrador one day. Let's get to know them more, shall we?

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

Before I retired in 2009, I worked as a dietitian, managing the food service department in a large residential facility. During these years my husband Roy and our two children, Kiah and Jessica lived on a hobby farm where we raised pigs, sheep, cows, horses and chickens. In addition to raising animals, weaving, spinning, quilting and needlework were a part of everyday life. To prepare for the idle hours of retirement I took a water colour course, on a whim. Not only did I enjoy this new creative outlet but also I made friends with a woman who operated a framing shop and sold jewellery findings. That is when I started taking apart old jewellery to make new pieces for my friends and family. The response was positive! At about the same time my daughter Jessica moved to the east coast and started collecting and wire-wrapping sea glass. From that point we started making jewellery together and soon added new techniques to the mix, like making handmade glass beads.

What is the story behind your shop name?  

When Jessica and I decided to open our online store we had to come up with a name for it. JaJeJems was our choice, combining the first two letters of our first names with the word Jems which we felt could describe not only our jewellery pieces but other pieces of creative work that we might want to add in the future.

Who is your target market?

At first I would say that we just make jewellery that was fun with everyone in mind. Now we are more focused on appealing to people who love glass in all it's forms, from frosty sea glass to uniquely individual handmade beads.

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

For me the most enjoyable part of the creative process is the planning. I love to look at what materials I have at hand and dream of a possible finished piece. Part of the plan of course means selecting other components and deciding on what techniques to use. Sometimes new techniques need to be learned. Often the plan changes as the project progresses but keeping the dream alive can be the biggest challenge and the most fun!

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

For several years my husband and I have had a cottage on the west coast of Newfoundland, his home province. It has been our dream to retire to the same area. In March 2013 we purchased a former convenience store in York Harbour and moved there last September. York Harbour is a small quiet village which livens up in the summer with tourists and cottagers. The scenery is breath taking and we feel like we have arrived in paradise!

What is your best seller?

At the present time we find that our best sellers are our sea glass jewellery and sculptures.

How do you balance your personal and work life?

Balancing personal life and work is always a challenge. I have found that the best system for me is to devote a designated number of hours a day, five days a week to the business. However, working at home means interruptions and distractions and the plan doesn't always work. I often find myself popping in to the online store in the evening hours to do a little "work". Having said that I remain happy with both my personal and work life.

What inspires you?

I am inspired mostly by the everyday things around me. One thing that painting has taught me is to appreciate the subtlety of the world whether it be colour, contrast, shadows or even the simplest objects that I see daily.
 

 

What is your goal for 2014?  And are you on the right track?

When we purchased the store here in York Harbour our goal was to open it this year as a gallery/cafe to become the "bricks and mortar" home for JaJeJems and to offer bakery items and homemade pizza to the local people and tourists. Well we are still on track with those plans with the opening of our gallery/gift shop on May 8, 2014 and the bakery and cafe to follow later in the year. Exciting times for sure!

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Three things that I think are very important in running an online shop:
Have very good quality pictures of your work and more than one, write detailed descriptions of each piece, learn as much as you can about social media marketing

What does handmade mean to you?

For me handmade has a special meaning. When I think of an artist or craftsman designing and making a work I always feel that they are pouring a bit of themselves into it. If I receive an handmade gift I appreciate the work that has gone into making it unique. Whether the artist made it with me in mind or it was purchased by someone who knows my taste, it becomes a treasure. No factory produced piece could measure up!
 

What is your favorite quote, song, or movie?

Never give up on what you really want to do. The person with the big dreams has more power than the one with all the facts (anonymous)
 

Where can we find JaJeJems?

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn
Google+
Blog
Websites: www.jajejems.com and www.theroostatyorkharbour.com

Would you like to be featured as a Saturday Artisan and sponsor a giveaway?

Here is how to apply.