Saturday Artisan: Stitches by Ashley Nicole

Meet Ashley our Saturday Artisan!


If you are looking for great quality coasters along with great customer service, her shop, Stitches by Ashley Nicole, is one to visit for sure.

Without further a due, let's get to know her a little bit, shall we?

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

Hi! I'm Ashley Nicole, the Work at Home Mom (WAHM) behind Stitches by Ashley Nicole. I am married to my best friend and have two boys - a 3 year old and a six month old.
I make handmade items for the home. My items serve both a functional and a décor need. My main items are coasters; placemats; and pot holders. All of my items are machine washable and handmade by me. However, my older son is a big fan of the fabric store and helping to pick out new prints to add to my shop.

How does your workspace look like? 

I'd say organized chaos. I know where almost everything is, but to someone else it probably looks like a huge mess because I have works in progress spread out all over.

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

Choosing what to pair together. I love find complementary fabrics and prints to pair together.

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

I live in a suburb of Columbus, Ohio and honestly, there isn't much about the scenery that I find attractive. It's pretty flat and mostly farmland where there aren't shops and office buildings or hospitals. However, there is a lot to do here because it's both the state capital and the home of The Ohio State University.

What is your best seller?

My best seller is the coaster sets. They're sets of four square, machine washable, fabric coasters that are approximately 4" wide. Due to the nature of being handmade, there is some variation in size, but usually only millimeters in difference.

Find Ashley in these social medias:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StitchesbyAshleyNicole
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StitchByAshNic
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/stitchbyashnic/
Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/stitchesbyashleynicole
Instagram: http://instagram.com/stitchesbyashleynicole

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

Giveaway from Bownanza Utah: Crochet Hat with Flower

Win this beautiful Crochet Hat from Bownanza Utah. 

One crochet hat - Stretchy, infant or toddler to adult size, usually fits age 2 to small adult. Easily fits any bow and a cute as a photo prop or winter accessory! Coordinating flower included.

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

Number of winner: 1 (One)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY. The contest starts now and ends on January 5, 2014. The contest opens to US and Canada (Free Shipping to the US). 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. The contest winner will be drawn on January 6th. The 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. The 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: 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.

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 Unique Creations by Tracy: Owl Pillow

Do you love owls? I certainly do! 
Would you like to win this adorable Owl Pillow?
Tracy of Unique Creations by Tracy is giving away one custom Owl Pillow to one lucky winner.

Cute owl pillows that are a great addition to a baby or child's room as a decoration, or any room in your house. Size approx: 11" tall by 7" wide. They can be made in your color choice

Learn more about Tracy, 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 May 6, 2014. Contest opens to Worldwide (Free shipping to US Only, Canadian and winner from other countries will pay for shipping, mailed via USPS). 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 May 7th. 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.

Giveaway from Lucky Sea Glass Jewelry: Sea Glass Ring

Who wants to win this gorgeous and rare Sea Glass Ring?

One lucky winner will win this beautiful ring sponsored by Lucky Sea Glass Jewelry.

This ring is adjustable, wrapped with sterling silver wire, and on a silver plated ring. Retail value is $60.00.

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

Enjoy 15% off of any item when you become a facebook fan of Lucky Sea Glass.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest starts now and ends on April 28th, 2014. Contest opens to US and Canada (Free shipping to US Only, Canadian winner will pay for shipping, mailed via USPS). 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 April 29th. 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.

Giveaway from Little House of Crafting: $10 Gift Certificate

Are you ready for another fantastic Giveaway?

This time Toni from Little House of Crafting is giving away $10 Gift Certificate to be spent on her Storenvy Shop.

If you an anime fan or know someone who is, you want to enter this giveaway.

Get to know Toni a little bit more. Read the yesterday's post of Saturday Artisan.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest starts now and ends on February 8th, 2014. Contest opens to worldwide. 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 Sunday, February 9th. Winner must respond within 48 hours after being contacted otherwise another winner will be randomly selected. Good luck, everyone! 

Saturday Artisan: Little House of Crafting

Happy Saturday!
This week Saturday artisan is Toni! She is the creative person behind Little House of Crafting.
It's the perfect shop when you are looking for something geekery, handmade with love.

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

Hello! I'm Toni, owner of Little House of Crafting!
I'm a happily married 20-something geek that loves to watch Doctor Who, play videogames and of course, craft!

Little House of Crafting came about in early 2013 when my friend, and partner in crime, Lilly Inverse of Lilly Inverse Designs began making and selling art in Artist Alleys at anime conventions. I decided to join in the fun and created a line of pinback buttons. Later, I added perler/pixel art (also known as drawing with plastic) and now offer pinback button designs in magnet form!

Each product is made by me in my adorable 650 square-foot home in southeast Michigan. Every fandom and activity featured at Little House of Crafting is dear to my heart. Great pride is taken in ensuring that you are able to share your geekery with the world at large!

What is the story behind your shop name?  

The story behind my shop name is that my products are handmade by me in my little 650-square-foot house. I take over the kitchen table!

Who is your target market?

My target market are those that attend anime conventions and those looking for geekery to collect and squee over!

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

The part of the creation process that I enjoy the most is designing custom pinback buttons and magnets. I love getting in the zone of designing and sending Facebook messages and emails of proofs for approval before sending out the final product! :)

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

Even though I live in a township, those who live in my area don't pay attention to what towns they are in as our cities are so small. I live on the border of two other towns. It's so wonderful as the town I live in doesn't have a movie theater. We go 5 minutes down the street to the next town! The other town I border has a fantastic tavern that my husband and I frequent very often. The staff are great and will sit down at the table and talk with you!

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

I organize my products simply. Each pinback button design is stored in a ziplock sandwich bag and then are collected in a gallon size ziplock bag. I need to be able to find my designs quickly during an anime convention so I have my button designs organized by color and type of text or picture. Choose a method that works and is efficient for you!

How does your day go in general?

My day depends on whether I am working or not. I work part-time at Jimmy John's. Regardless, on the weekdays, I wake up at 7am for a 20 minute work out. Then I get some online work in for my shop before going to work. Typically I'm catching up on social media, preparing orders for shipping, etc. After work I catch up on social media again and work on convention prep, designing new products, completing new shop listings and photographs, etc. One thing's for sure is that every day is different!

How do you balance your personal and work life?

I make sure to have family time every day. This is very important as it's easy to get preoccupied with completing orders and making new products. I also make sure to have scheduled alone time every week. This allows me to recharge and have some quiet time so that I don't burn out.

What inspires you?

Everything inspires me! Be it a conversation with a friend or a loved one, TV shows or movies, a book I've read, a videogame played..my inspiration comes from everything!

 

What is your best seller?

My best seller is my Soul Eater Moon pinback button. That design is hand drawn using my Wacom tablet and GIMP. I am so proud of it!

What is your goal for 2014?

 My goal for 2014 is to reveal a new shop mascot and launch two new product lines!

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

The advice I would give in running an online shop is that you can't please everybody. Make the online shop you and yours and reflect your passion behind it. It will show! Also, limit the amount of stock you make for new products until you have an idea of whether it will sell or not. If you do find yourself having too much product see if you can donate it to giveaways that benefit charities or to charities themselves!

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

I research and shop online as much as possible. I also try to purchase from handmade and local shops as much as possible so as to support small business. That balance can be a hard line to walk but typically you can shop online for the supply purchases and shop handmade and local for the freebies included in online orders. For example, I shop at Washi Mall for my washi tape that I embellish my "Thank You" message with.

Stay-tuned for tomorrow's giveaway!

Saturday Artisan: Violet's Buds

Happy Saturday!

Meet our Saturday Artisan: Melanie, the artist behind Violet's Buds shop at Storenvy.

I truly love her flowers. They are all so beautifully made. Recently, she has added a new line in her shop: the hoops arts!

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

I am a happily married SAHM with an energetic preschooler. When my daughter was 6 months old I decided to try making her some cute hair accessories. It quickly became an addiction, and I began making clips and headbands for my nieces and friends. After encouragement from friends and family I opened Violet's Buds in March of 2011. I started by selling headbands and clips for young girls, and have expanded to include hair accessories for all ages, fabric jewelry, photo props, newborn crowns, and holiday ornaments. I also make custom maternity sashes and wedding accessories upon request.
Currently I am starting a new line of hoop art decor that uses the same fabrics and flowers as the hair accessories.

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

I enjoy matching various colors and patterns of fabrics, along with buttons and beads to create unique pieces. 

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

I was raised and still live in a suburb of Kansas City, MO.

Our city has a growing artistic community, lots of beautiful sites, and amazing barbecue. Kansas City was recently named a top travel destination for 2014! 

 

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

Currently, I organize all my stock by color. My shop is organized by accessory type. I am often seeking new methods of organization to see which works best.

What is your best seller?

Since the majority of my pieces are one of a kind, I don't have a single best seller. Lately, the button hair pins have been quite popular.

How do you balance your personal and work life?

Balancing work and personal life is a constant challenge for me. One of my goals for 2014 is to become better organized, both in business and my personal life, and stick to a schedule to prevent burnout.

What inspires you?

I greatly enjoy the creative process and the therapeutic outlet that crafting gives me. I've always been drawn to art, photography and crafts. I am inspired by the fabrics I use, my daughter and her style, and by brainstorming with other crafters.

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

My biggest piece of advice is to plan on spending the same amount of time, if not more, on marketing, advertising, and networking as you do on the actual creation of your pieces. It takes sometimes months for customers to find you and your products.
Also, never be negative! No matter how discouraged you might be, never post something negative on your social media-- its likely to drive customers away.

Don't give up, just keep plugging away. Find a group of like-minded businesses that can help give tips and encouragement. A great support system is so very important.

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

The majority of the fabrics used in my pieces are either remnants, or are upcycled from clothing & linens. Beads, pendants, & buttons in Violet's Buds accessories come from old & sometimes broken costume jewelry, old clothing, or scouted out at flea markets. This allows me to reduce waste, and give new life to otherwise forgotten items. Additionally, the majority of Violet's Buds pieces are one of a kind.

So where can we get in touch with Melanie? 

Reach her here:

Facebook

Blog
Pinterest
Twitter

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

Giveaway from Pelhuaz by Red: A Turquoise Owl Charm Necklace

This awesome giveaway is sponsored by Pelhuaz by Red. Get to know Zei, our Saturday Artisan this week. Learn about this artist  on yesterday post.

Win a Turquoise Owl Charm Necklace (White)

The perfect bracelet for your Casual Evenings Out, a great addition to your jewelry collection. Bohemian beaded stretch bracelets that look lovely by themselves or when stacked with other bracelets. This darling bracelet has an owl carved from manmade turquoise, and handsome glossy beads with intriguing matrix.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest starts now and ends on January 25, 2014. Contest opens to worldwide. 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 Sunday, January 26th. Winner must respond within 48 hours after being contacted otherwise another winner will be randomly selected. 

Saturday Artisan: Pelhuaz by Red

Welcome to the first 2014 Saturday Artisan! 

I'm pleased to introduce you to Zei, the artist behind Pelhuaz by Red. Zei is such a friendly person! I had a pleasure making custom label tags for her and she was a delight to work with! I am sure that she is an awesome shop owner and will make sure that you are satisfied with your purchase.

My favorite from Pelhuaz shop is this Druzy Necklace in pink with sterling silver chain. Isn't this gorgeous?

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

My name is Zeide Rojas. I'm a Telecommunications Project Manager that love making crafts and most of all jewelry. I create modern bracelets, and necklace made with beads, semi precious stones, glass and charms.

What is the story behind your shop name?  

The name Pelhuaz by Red actually came from my nickname. Everyone called me "Pelua" -which is the Spanish word for "Tangle" -like Brave-Merida-Curly-Hair. That's me, Zei the Pelua. After playing with the idea and my fascination with owls (translation in Spanish is buhos), the name was born. Was something like Pelua + Buho + Zei = Pelhuaz. The "Red", well is just the translation of my last name.

Who is your target market?

My target market is the modern woman who likes to look modern but by using simple accessories. Sometime less is better and with a bracelet or necklace your outfit will shine.

Which part of creation process that you enjoy the most?

I love looking for new beads or charm. After I found one that I love, I start imagining how it will look as a bracelet or as a necklace. Then is just the assembling process.

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

I live in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico, officially known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is an unincorporated territory of the United States, located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

Puerto Rico is a little island that measure only 100 miles long by 35 miles wide, making it the smallest island of the Greater Antilles. Puerto Rico (Spanish for "rich port") have an exquisite weather that invite you to explore. You can find local exotic hideaways, miles of white sandy beaches, mountains and valleys, and many other natural wonders.

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

As soon a s I have a new creation, I assign it a number. That number is used as the inventory control number that I use at the store for listing, and the inventory matrix. Using plastic storage boxes, I organize the items by such number, saving a lot of time when a new order arrive. I just have to look for the item at the storage box and deduct it from the matrix.

What is your best seller?

My best sellers are the bohemian beaded stretch bracelets that look lovely by themselves or when stacked with other bracelets.

How does your day go in general?

As a mom, a project manager, a wife and an entrepreneur; my day goes a little fast. In the morning, I have to prepare and take the girl to school and pick her up in the afternoon. While she's at school Mama is working as a Project Manager. After picking her up, is all about homework's, tests reviews and school projects. Then the regular Mama stuff related to fixing food, house chores, etc. When the girl is ready to sleep, then I can start working with Pelhuaz -pre arranging the post, processing any new order or making new items. 

How do you balance your personal and work life?

I'm trying to organize everything in a way that I can work on the store just few hour a day, leaving the rest of my time to family. Some time is a little complicated, but for me family is always first!

What inspires you?

Love, my girl, my Hubby. This are the things that moves me, and keep me alive. 

 

What is your goal for 2014?  

Pelhuaz by Red is practically a new. I opened it on June 2013, and it's being a great journey. I plan to have a total 50 sales, participate in 2 shows, being featured at few blogs -just like yours, start using my Nikon for the items photos, and work with the improvement of my marketing channels.

Any advice for others running their on-line shop?

Build a great community with people that share your same interest and are willing to help you. This is not a thing that can be done by yourself. Help is always needed. Don't be afraid to ask. If you met the right people, they will be willing and able to help.

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

Don't over spend in materials. Buy only what you need and when you need it!

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

Movie Themed Party

Movie themed party is such a fun theme to have for any ages and both genders.  Whether you are celebrating a First Birthday, a Ninth birthday, a Sweet Sixteen, or a Girls Night Out, it is definitely a party theme to consider. If you are planning for a surprise party for a Movie Fanatic, then this is it!

Party Decoration 

These movie theater favor tags were originally created as a custom order. The phrase "Thank You For Starring In...." is cute, followed by a customized text such as "Lily's 9th Birthday".  The colors I chose in here is black, red and white. Just like my other creations, I like to use high-quality materials including textured cards and that extra little detail makes these tags pop out. You will also get many movie-related images, not just one (unless you want to of course!).

Other party decorations such as cupcake toppers, banner, napkin rings, stickers, and invitations can be customized and available upon request.

Foods to Serve 

How about some cute decorated popcorn cupcake to serve at the party? This recipe seems easy and yet delicious! Mmm...yummy marshmellow!

If you are hosting an Oscars party, then these Golden Oscar Cookies are a must to serve!

Entertainment

A movie themed party will not be a fun party if there is no entertainment planned.  Watching a movie I think is a must, but how about setting up a photo corner and catch your guests in action? This decal will be a perfect photo prop to have.

Gift Ideas

Now, what is your favorite movie?

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 5

Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:

December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these participating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.
Click on the image below to see all the participating shops.



Here are some of Epic products you can purchase with 30% off.

Gingerbread Cookie Apron from Poppy's Garden Gate.

Hand Woven "Girasol" Wrap Scrap Baby, Toddler Slip on Shoes from Bellamy Tree.

Snowflake Stud Earrings from Afua Handmade.

Pretty in Pinks Floral Rhinestone Ring from East Evelyn Square.

Turquoise and Red Carnelian Earrings from Michelle Bleu.

 

Organic Deodorant Paste from Squishyworm.

The Hunger Games Inspired Wrap Bracelet-Favor from Sapphire Haven.

Thank you for stopping by! Comment is much appreciated and sharing this post will make my day. Sharing can be done by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Don't forget Cyber Monday Sale starts from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4 on December 2, 2013.  Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off!