Thursday, December 31, 2009

A Bag that Will Go to the Ends of the Earth With You and Back

Made from FAIR TRADE coffee burlap sacks and ORGANIC hemp canvas that has been environmentally dyed black.

This is a bag that I don't think I can do without. And if I can? I don't want to.

The Wren has a lot of bags I don't want to live without though, and I particularly love the burlap sack designs that have been created and are for sell there. It's a terrific way to recycle and I find the colors and fabrics very visually appealing, not to mention durable!

The artist who created this wonderful bag, Wendren, is a surface designer by paper (aka textile designer or graphic artist) from Cape Town, South Africa who started designing bags in December of 2007 and has since then grown to include a label "Wren" an a rather large customer base, both on and off Etsy!

The Wren now sells not just bags of all sizes and shapes but clutches and pouches as well!

TO VISIT THEWREN'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Masks are not just for Mardi Gras

"Here you will find a treasure trove of beautiful, hand made leather masks and other mementos from an unusual journey into the worlds of imagination and spirit."

A treasure trove is right!

Here's a shop filled with fantasy and beauty. An artist who creates jewelry and masks. Pilgrimage is a beautiful display of a very talented artisan who has worked in a number of different artistry inspired fields.

The masks, in particular, caught my attention as they're not just beautiful but they're made for more than just display.

Each mask is made following the ancient tradition of the Venetian mask makers out of light-weight leather to be both durable and comfortably wearable! They are each carefully shaped, finished and painted by hand, with no laser cutters, airbrushes, vacuum formers or anything involved other than paintbrushes and a few simple tools.

For me, this brings an entire new level of "wearable art" to forefront.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT PILGRIMAGE'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Sensuality is Perfection

My bedroom needs this painting. In fact, my soul needs this painting.

For 20 years now, Kimberly Dow is a professional gallery-represented artist that works with a variety of subjects, but tends to concentrate on figurative paintings in oil in recent years.

As a nationally recognized award-winning artist with a following as well as well known collectors, most of her work is sold through galleries, This said though, she also offers prints and the occasional original for sale on her Etsy shop, which is where I discovered her beautiful work.

A number of Kim Dow's pieces are nudes, so I feel it prudent to warn you ahead of time that the link to the shop for this artist is for mature audiences only.

That said, if you or who you are shopping for is a fan of beauty, oil paintings and artwork that reaches in to caress the soul? You really need to check out Kimberly Dow's work and website, which can be found through a link in her shop.

TO VISIT KIMDOW'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Scatterbrain Tees

Do you know someone in your life, or are you that someone, that is the jeans and t-shirt type?

I am. And, I do, too! In fact, there's a college full of people who's style is just that right down the street and another across town and many more all over the world!

Everyone has someone like this in their life, and I've found the perfect shop for them, and you, if you're searching for a gift for them.

Scatterbrain Tees has a variety of men's and women's tees in all sizes and shapes with a wide variety of unique, original art silkscreen printed with a quality guarantee. They specialize in artsy, quirky, wearable designs in the form of artistic t-shirts, graphic shirts and other such creative clothing as well as art prints. And all his shirts are sorted by sex and size for ease in shopping.

The shop is ran by Michael Phipps who is an artist and illustrator that has been drawing and creating all his life. He's a recognized artist that has created illustrations for book covers, magazines, CD covers, posters, web sites, and more.

Whether what you're looking for is masculine or feminine, quirky, artsy or just plain cool, Michael's shop could be just what you're looking for.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT PHIPPSART'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Just... WOW!

Although I personally work with beads and love creating jewelry, I never mastered the skill of bead weaving, which I found to be too close to sewing for my personal talents.

As I've stated on this blog before, though, I'm a huge fan of
those who -can- sew and do it well.

MaryTDesigns is one of those people who's found a way to combine my love for beads with a talent that I could only dream of possessing.

As a wife, mother and accountant, Mary aspires to one day quit her day job and bead full time, and with the talent that I see in her beautiful pieces? I have a hard time not seeing this to be a part of her future!

Her cuffs and bracelets are truly magnificent, and not just that, but reasonably priced too! That's two things that are definitely in her favor and you can count me as number three since I'm rooting for her success.

TO VISIT MARYTDESIGNS' SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Pretty, Cute and Perfectly Girly

The little girl in me perked up and took notice when I first saw one of Meytal's pieces of artwork in a treasury over at Etsy and when I clicked through to visit her shop, it stirred up a warm and delighted girly giggle.

Meytal is the creator of Jolinne, a beautiful little girl that's depicted in a multitude of
different bits of artwork sold in this wonderful shop.

From the artist... about Jolinne:

"Jolinne is a very shy, noble and naive little girl.
She is also beautiful inside and out, but ... she doesn't realize this yet.
Like most little girls, she enjoys fantasizing and dreaming ... a lot,
She likes to pretend she's a different character from another era;
from another story.
She believes she can be anyone she wishes ...
And when the real world whispers to her again,
she steps out of her imaginary world and returns to herself;
to the happy, beautiful, very unique little girl that she is ...

Jolinne would love for you to join her imaginary world,
and just like her, believe you can be anything you want to be ...
even if it's just for a few special moments ..."

Maybe this is why I am such a fan of Jolinne. Like Meytal, Jolinne sounds a great deal like me as a child and she's the perfect gift for child or adult that can relate to this little character. So if this sounds like you, or like someone -you- know, you should take a look over at Meytal's Jolinne shop!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT JOLINNE'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

3D Pencil Fun by Jennifer Maestre

Honestly? I've seen a lot of amazing artwork done with colored pencils. I had a girl in many of my classes back in high school, in particular, who created the most unique and amazing pieces with a vibrancy that I just couldn't pull my eyes away from every time I saw one.

But I've never seen anything like this done
with pencils, and I'm completely in love! I can't even imagine how she does it. It's mind boggling!

Each piece in Jennifer Maestre's collection of art pieces is hand made by Jen and looks like a wonderful jigsaw puzzle of colorful pencils fit together in unique and interesting shapes.

On Etsy, she sells earrings, pendants, pens, necklaces and more. She also has a selection of "Pencil Urchin" sculptures that have been recently featured in American Style Magazine!

On her website you can see an even larger variety of Jennifer Maestre's works and you'll be amazed by all the color and creativity displayed.

Take a peek for yourself and a browse around her website, I bet you too will be fascinated and wondering just how in the world she makes those beautiful, intricate little bits of pencil art!

TO VISIT JENNIFER MAESTRE'S WEBSITE CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Add a Little Glitz and Glitter to Your Day!

Oh man, oh man oh man! This is one of my favorite Etsians ever and I was a big fan of the shop even before I ever started talking to the owner on Twitter.

"I love sitting down at my bench and getting to dig my hands into a bunch of sparkling little beads. Using different textures and colors to create a pair of earrings is my form of meditation. Then I get to imagine all of the lovely people wearing my little creations, and it just makes me smile."

As you can see by what's on her profile, its easy to imagine how getting to know the seller has enhanced this enjoyment of this shop. She's a wonderful artist who makes some of the most beautiful earrings and sparkles I've ever seen, and her terrific personality just enhances the entire package!

If I could post a dozen or more of her pieces into this post, I would! I truly can't find a single piece of jewelry in her shop that I don't like and if you love jewelry or are shopping for someone who does? This is an artist that you don't want to miss!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT GLITZGLITTER'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Spring Warmth on a Winter's Day

I have recently become a really big fan of the scarf. I use to find them somewhat cumbersome, but it turns out that my feelings on this have changed after some time wearing and getting used to the feel of them.

In having done this experiment where I realized this; I also discovered that they make terrific accessories that can dress up or completely change the look of an outfit as well as the person wearing it!

EclecticaByJan on Etsy makes a wide variety of wonderful crocheted items, but what caught my eye and actually inspired my experiment, was the scarf you see pictured here.

I've seen a lot of scarves, but I've never seen anything like this, and it immediately caught my eye and made me take notice! Not only are the colors breathtakingly beautiful, but the shape and style is unique as well!

Jan carries a variety of colors of these in stock, including a beautiful spring flower inspired one and another that looks like snowflakes! She also sells the more traditional styles as well as stockings, afghans, throws and other crocheted items as well as a variety of paper products as well!

If you love home-y crocheted items that look perfect to snuggle into though? This shop in particular is sure to be perfect for you.

TO VISIT ECLECTICABYJAN'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Droll Design with a Sharp Edge

It can't just be me who first gets a look at today's shop and immediately cracks a smirk. Can it?

I don't think so.

This is a shop for those that like to share a little humor, often dry humor, with their gifts and if this is you? Then this is the perfect shop for you to go browsing through.

DippyLulu is a shop full of clever funny stuff for men and women including greeting cards, personalized gifts, wedding favors, and other weird, cool and silly things. My personal favorite are the match boxes with a selection of "say what you're really thinking" holiday cards coming in a very close second.

The artist behind these cute, funny and snarky designs was educated in graphic design and typography in the pre-Mac days and has been working in design in one form or another for over 20 years. It shows in every piece, as does her personality!

So take a wander over to Dippylulu's and check out her stuff! If you have a dry sense of humor, or any sense of humor at all, I can't imagine you being disappointed by what you'll find.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT DIPPYLULU'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Ethereal, Surreal, Whimsical, and Mysterious

With her artwork she creates beautiful little dream worlds and her very own secret places. Secret places that I too would love to visit and enjoy. Places filled with dreams, whimsy and mystery.

I first came across Melissa Nucera work through Twitter, and the moment I took peek at what was behind the link she'd posted, I was hooked by the "mist and dreams" flavor of her artwork.

Her art, for me, fits perfectly into the winter season. Her pieces hold the mystery of mist and fog, the tranquility of fresh fallen snow and a kind of beauty that steps from reality into a surreal world all its own.

Melissa sells her pieces in a number of different sized prints, in greeting card form, and has recently began selling them in pendant form to wear a piece of her artwork that you can take with you wherever you go as well as on beautifully designed pocket mirrors.

Her shop is as beautiful as the pieces she carries in it, and I strongly recommend a visit and gallery browse through her works.

TO VISIT THISYEARSGIRL'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Inspiration in Light and Nature

Hannah Nunn has one of the most beautiful, inventive products that I've ever seen on Etsy and it's no surprise to me what so ever that she's an "outside the box" thinker.

I've never seen this type of artwork before, but it was one of those moments where I instantly saw something and reacted with an "Oooohh! I want that!" responses.

The artist is a UK based designer that makes her beautiful creations from within her studio located at her ‘bricks and mortar’ creative lighting shop ‘Radiance’ in Hebden Bridge in the North of England.

She's inspired by the beauty and intricacy of plants and flowers and loves to make botanical studies by drawing with light and shadow. She often draws her inspiration from walks in the countryside and the photographs she takes on these walks as well as a beautiful flower shop located near her home.

Hannah often cuts much of her designs by hand, which is her preferred method over the laser method that she sometimes also uses for more detailed and intricate precision as well as to engrave into the paper to let more light shine through.

All of the pieces in her shop are beautiful, intricate pieces of art. Wonderful accents that could be a breathtaking addition to any room and I personally wish I could buy out her entire shop!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT HANNAHNUNN'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Femininity... personified

I'm in love with this dress.

I can't remember where I stumbled across this shop keeper, maybe it was on the Etsy forums, but I remember the immediate fascination I felt the moment I saw this dress.


This was definitely one of those items that was easy to heart and hard to not do an immediate impulse buy and snatch right up.

The Antoinette Party Dress that's shown here is just one of the beautiful
pieces in today's shop, though.

Del Guidices Studio on Etsy carries a variety of handmade, vintage inspired, designer quality garments, jewelry and boudoir accessories and the atmosphere of the shop itself is both very soft and feminine, a perfect backdrop for the pieces on display there.

Del Guidices' shop owner learned to sew as a little girl with her Nonna from Italy, where she was taught to always strive for perfection and pay special attention to detail. She then went on to study tailoring in Rome, where she became accustomed to the Italian's love and expectation of the highest quality products and results. She now uses this same standard in her own work!

She aspires to create garments that are dreamlike, ultra-feminine and have subtle but powerful sex appeal, and I have to agree 100% that she's accomplished this goal.

If you are (or know) an ultra-femme woman that loves the sense of beauty and satisfaction she gets from wearing a really beautiful and flattering garment, this is a shop you need to see to believe.

TO VISIT DELGUIDICESTUDIO'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Show Some Personality

Have you ever hunted for the perfect present for someone and not been able to find anything that fits? It all seems too bland, too boring or just too common place or impersonal? I know that I personally have this problem sometimes.

It's nothing against the stores I visit or the online shops I frequent, or even the copious varieties of gifts and artwork available at craft fair and bazaar venues. It's just that there's always -someone- on my Christmas list that fits outside that box, their personality is just too strong, too big and distinctive for the usual choices.

When I stumbled upon today's shop, they resolved this problem for me this year.

Bedlam Country Crafts specialty is signage filled with personality and flare. They carry a wide variety of signs with everything from sweet and romantic sayings to absolutely hilarious quips. Under the shop's profile, you'll also find that the owner runs a second shop where you can -also- pick out the perfect card to go along with the perfect gift as well!

The sign pictured in this blog post is my personal favorite from their Bedlam Country Craft's signage shop, but you really must wander that way and take a look for yourself. Their signs are sure to quirk a smile, touch the heart and even stir a laugh... and in the process you just might stumble across that perfect gift you've been searching for!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT BEDLAMCOUNTRYCRAFTS' SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Music is Forever

Once upon a time there was a little girl whose only dream was to create music. She couldn't sing and she couldn't dance but she loved the beauty of sweeping sounds and dancing notes and longed to create their own.

This painting by Shawna Erback Studios is one of those things that reminds me of my past and my childhood dreams.

Once upon a time, that little girl was me. And on one wonderful and early Christmas morning, I unwrapped festive paper and opened a long, narrow box to find a sleek black case nestled inside.

And inside that case was the most beautiful present I'd ever received.

A flute. A flute that made my musical dreams a reality.

Shawna Erback has a dreamy signature style to her artwork that touches the heart and makes me smile, and many of her pieces evoke touching memories in my own past.

They might relate to yours too or be that perfect gift that you've been looking for to give to someone special in your life. So stop by her shop an take a browse around. You won't be disappointed!


TO VISIT SHAWNAERBACK'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Monday, December 14, 2009

A Fellow Jewelry Junkie... Gotta Love'em!

I love jewelry, I can't help it. I hoard jewelry too. And this, my friends and readers, is what makes me a jewelry junkie.

In Etsy, there's a seller that is also a self professed jewelry junkie! Two sellers, actually. Carrie & Kathy are a duo that make beautiful shiny OOAK pieces of jewelry out of sterling silver components, gemstones, semi-precious gemstones and Swarovski crystals.

Over the past five years designing and selling custom made OOAK jewelry, they've also discovered a passion for polymer clay, and along with their jewelry shop, they also have three shops dedicated to different aspects of that art!

Ambition, thy name is CalKat!

They have a number of unique and interesting pieces of jewelry and artwork in their shop, and whether you're a fan of jewelry or polymer clay art, or you're shopping for someone that is, I definitely recommend a browse thru their shops!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT CALKAT'S JEWELRY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.
(You can get to their polymer clay shops thru the links in their shop announcement. Be sure to check them out too!)

Sunday, December 13, 2009

A Message In a Bottle... Literally

I first discovered today's shop through Twitter and a ReTweet that directed me to this unique and absolutely drool-worthy purse. Once I was in her shop, I discovered a cornocopia of variety to look through and enjoy!

Because Veronica, curator of the Demure Artistic
Design shop on Etsy, loves to dabble in many different types of arts and crafts, she doesn't just offer purses. She offers a variety of jewelry, purses, bags and even these cute little seaside inspired "Message in a Bottle" charms.

I was fascinated, in particular, by the "Messages in a Bottle". Maybe because I have a deep yearning for the beach and the sea.

Or maybe I just find them both cute and inspirational.

She carries a number of different ones to choose from with different charms and sentiments behind them too.

If you or the one you're shopping for likes jewelry and charms, a wander thru Demure Artistic Design's shop might be just what you need.


TO VISIT DEMUREARTISTICDESIGN'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Saturday, December 12, 2009

The Letter

This painting was one of my very first Favorites marked in Etsy when I visited the site and it remains my absolute top favorite of all time.

The colors, the composition... the pure mood of this work took my breath away and brought tears to my eyes at first glance.

And it still does.

I have absolutely -no- art hanging on the walls of my home. It's just not something I do, but if I could have this painting? I'd have to change my ways because this piece is a piece of art that you build an entire room around and it deserves to be the focal point of someone's home and loved and admired every, single day.

For those that can't afford the nearly $10,000 price tag on that gorgeous painting? Art of the Moment offers something much more affordable (and portable) for you to enjoy!

Little pieces of art captured in miniature for use in fused glass pendants and key chains. They have nearly 175 to choose from too, in a range from cute and adorable to elegant and even some that are more masculine.

Whether you go for the key chains and pendants, or for those gorgeous full-sized paintings, this is definitely a shop you don't want to miss.


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT ARTOFTHEMOMENT'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Friday, December 11, 2009

The Impossible... Achieved

I love lampwork beads, in fact it's one of those things that I would love to do myself, but I jus -know- I'd end up setting either myself or my surroundings on fire. Sooooo... instead, I admire from afar others who do this artwork so well.

Daria is one of these people, which is obvious the moment you step into her shop, Daydream Glass.

Her shop isn't full of beads though, although she does offer those too! Surprisingly enough? It's full of rings. Lampwork fused-glass rings!

This is something that I did not know could be done, and I'm absolutely agog that not only -can- it be done? But done with style and flare!

All of her rings, earrings and pendants are unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of art, which means that you or the lucky recipient of such a beautiful gift will be the only person in the world wearing one. She offers rings, earrings and pendants as well as cuff links, hair accessories and more.

Daria truly enjoys her artwork, and it shows in every piece in her beautiful shop. Go check her out!


TO VISIT DAYDREAMGLASS' SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Flourish

I think I've mentioned on here before that metal workers fascinate me. I can't help it. And when you incorporate designs from nature into the metal work process, I'm undeniably drawn.

That's how this piece by beadinbythesea caught my attention and draw me in, and am I ever glad it did!

Beadin By the Sea is ran by Deborah and she has a wide variety of beautiful pieces in her shop to browse through. She's a Canadian jewelry artist with a degree in fashion design.

She currently lives in the beautiful San Juan Islands of Washington State, which I can personally vouch for as one of the absolutely -most- beautiful places on earth.

Deborah works with a variety of materials including precious metal clay, argentium sterling silver, 14KT Gold-fill and gemstones.

There's a plethora of beautiful pieces in Deborah's Beadin By the Sea shop, many of them nature themed and inspired. She does absolutely beautiful work and if you or the one you are shopping for likes jewelry, you should take a peek!


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT BEADINBYTHESEA'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Moth Eaters and Butterfly Kisses... Goldfish too!

Every once in a while I run across an artist that leaves me speechless and actually makes me feel just a little bit intimidated by their talent.

Contrary to how it sounds, this isn't a bad thing. On the
contrary, it's an extremely good thing.

The pieces that these artists create? I could stare at them for hours and hours. They're the kind of pieces that you just never get tired of and never get enough of.

Schin Loong is one of those artists and she painted every single absolutely gorgeous picture in her shop including her own avatar. In fact, I had a really difficult time picking out just -one- piece to show in this blog post!

Her works are beautiful, fantasy inspired pieces. Dreamy and unique, they're highly detailed and show an amount of talent that is nearly enough to make a viewer's heart stutter at the sight of her artwork.

She's been featured in a number of fantasy magazines and she offers not just signed prints in her shop but also bookmarks, postcards and ACEO artist cards as well as custom sizing.

TO VISIT SCHIN LOONG'S SHOP AND BROWSE YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Dear Santa - Long Time No Write, but...

Okay, so we need to talk about my personal Christmas list here for a minute because I really, **really** need a benefactor!

I'm taking applications for my own personal Santa and this shop is at the very tip TOP of my Christmas want list.

Messenger bags, laptop bags, wallets,
clutches, backpacks. This shop has something for everyone, male and female.

I fell in love with the messenger bag style of bag about the same time I got my first laptop and I've never ran across the -perfect- laptop bag before, but I'm pretty sure that Stash has it. In fact, I know they do.


Their slogan is "Modern Function in Vintage Fashion" which is also right up my alley and I bet you know someone who would love their products too!

So take a look, browse through their listings and you're sure to find a perfect fit, whether for yourself or someone else.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT MARIFORSSELL'S SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Monday, December 7, 2009

A New Niche for the Stitch

A lot of times when people try to move crocheting over into other mediums such as jewelry, it turns me off. I'm not sure why, but I usually consider crochet to be an art for scarves and clothing, blankets and pillows.

Nadene is one of those rare artists that's
the exception to this rule.

She first caught my eye when I wandered across the piece pictured in this blog post, entitled "Driftwood". The piece and it's careful precision and blend of colors caught my eye and drew me in. Her work is an inspiration, in and of itself.

Ocean tides, snowy peaks, and lanes of sakura trees in spring... nature abounds for inspiration in Nadene's beautiful works and it shows in every necklace and bracelet she offers in her shop. And, in time, she plans to expand her shop to include clutches, purses and more.

Nadene has over 15 years experience in crochet design, knitting, and sewing and it shows in the flawless quality of the pieces in her shop. She even does custom orders!

TO VISIT NADENE'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!YHDC8QAMH3NE

Sunday, December 6, 2009

From IttyBitties to Great Biggies

I really think more artists should do this. Seriously. Not everyone can afford full on prints, or have the -room- for all the art that they would love to own. But who doesn't have room for a lovely little calendar?

Maleah Matthews doesn't just sell a multitude of sizes of prints of her beautiful photography. She also sells her work in calendars, on coasters as well as in cards and bookmarks. All wonderful ideas for adding a little more beauty to your own personal space or contributing some beautiful and original art to someone else's.

Her photography is a fusion of modern and vintage style photography that started out as a hobby only a year and a half ago! Amazing, isn't it? Her work is absolutely remarkable and she has a talent and quality to her work that you often don't see even in well-seasoned photographers. She even has work that's soon to appear on the walls of a movie premering next year!

If you're shopping for someone who appreciates beautiful, and in my opinion dreamy, photography, or if you do yourself, you definitely should stop by Maleah Matthews Photography on Etsy and take a wander through a shop that has that feel of wandering through a gallery entitled "Breathtaking".

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT MALEAH MATTHEWS PHOTOGRAPHY OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Find Joy in the Chaos

Personalized. Perfect!

I stumbled on this necklace that pretty much defines my entire existence while I was browsing through shops on Etsy.

"Sometimes we need to realize our crazy lives are the only lives we've got...and that we just need to take a step back, breathe, and "Find Joy in the Chaos"! A perfect gift for yourself or a busy friend.

This 1" x 3/4" sterling silver rectangular tag is topped with two tiny sterling beads and a sea-foam green Swarovski pearl and opaque Swarovski crystal"

How perfectly stated, and absolutely right!

Sisters and best friends, Brody and Kelsey, have a number of very cute items in their TagYoureItJewelry Shop on Etsy. I'm especially fond of the one pictured here, but there was a handful of them that I was tempted by as well. One to note? Check out their "Wish" necklace with the dandelion! Or the "Create" necklace, another favorite.

I love their work, and if you like this blog then I'm sure that you will to! So go take a look!

TO VISIT TAGYOUREITJEWELRY YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Adorable... Webster's Dictionary Should Agree

I can't remember where I first found this wonderful artist but I have to tell you, I've gone back to their shop over and over again since my first click in.

Why? Because this shop defines "adorable", in fact you could put the items sold there right smack dab in the dictionary to represent the word.

It's well known I have a great appreciation for knitters. I just can't help it. But this woman's work brings knitting to a whole new level with her cute little dolls and critters and I just want to own every single one of them.

Each little art doll is made of a combination of wool, acrylic, recycled acrylic, and cotton yarns, and, they are lovingly crocheted in a smoke and pet free environment.

If you're a fan of knitters, crafters, dolls or just love all things cute and adorable, you definitely need to check out Moomeez's Boutique in Etsy. You won't be disappointed!

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT MOOMEEZ BOUTIQUE OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Boys with their Toys turn into Men of Innovation

Although the leaf pictured in this post is what caught my eye and drew me in when I stumbled upon today's shop (it's my own personal I WANT, I WANT! item), it was the truly unique items I saw in the gallery combined with the unusual list of sections in this shop that kept me there long over my usual bounce ratio for a shop... and kept me coming back to look again too!

This guy doesn't just make jewelry, you see. He's selling modern metal jewelry, art, furniture, clocks, jewelry displays and much more.

I know most everyone on Etsy has unique items to sell, that goes without saying. And here on this blog I love highlighting those who I think escalate into the uber-unique categories But this man? This man is not just in an uber-unique category, he's created his own stratosphere all it's own.

Who is this unique mastermind? Every item is handmade and designed by a self taught metal artist; Timothy Adam.

Not only does he have some of the most unique pieces in his shop that I've ever seen? He also has a website that provides an amazing resource for Etsian sellers (and handmade sellers everywhere). Handmadeology.com

So take a minute to stop by Timothy Adam's shop and take a look around! I venture that you won't be disappointed. And pop on over to his Handmadeology site as well if you're an online seller or considering becoming one. The advice there is excellent and won't steer you wrong!

TO VISIT TIMOTHYADAMDESIGNS YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Friday, November 13, 2009

Eclectic Charm

After spending hours upon hours taking photographs of my own jewelry yesterday, I've again come to the conclusion that there are many, many more people out there with a great deal more talent at this than I have.

There's some amazing artists on Etsy and there's so much to see. I love browsing through people's shops and their treasuries too. It was on a treasury where I discovered ImpulsiveCreativity, actually.

First, the picture stood out. It almost popped out of the page at me. I loved the colors and the design of this oil and vinegar set and it drew me right into her shop where I found a -second- item that I also fell in love with.

Impulsive Creativity has a wide variety of items in her shop. She also does custom orders and all of her items are handmade in a clean, smoke free environment.

If you're looking for gifts for your loved ones, I'd definitely recommend a browse.


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT IMPULSIVECREATIVITY'S ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Every Woman has a Little Bit of Vixen in Her

I'm very picky about my jewelry, especially the chunkier items in my collection. If it's not delicate with a definite shimmer to it, chances are I'm not going to wear it.

At least, that's how I used to feel until I saw
this shop in Etsy called VixenWare.

The curator of this shop is an artist who combines delicacy and substance into something truly unique and beautiful. In fact, there are so many drool~worthy items in her shop that the first time I wandered through there I stuck around for over and hour gawking.

The VixenWare shop? It's not just a jewelry store. It's not just an Etsy shop either. It's a gallery of amazing artwork. It's one of those spots I want to go back to again and again because there's just -so- much talent and beauty there to take in.

The artist that makes all of these beautiful and unique creations is Victoria Banner. She works mainly with fine silver, some sterling and 24 Karat Gold to create those beautiful pieces in her shop and offers the opportunity for her customers to make special requests for custom orders as well!

If you're looking for a unique and beautiful gift or even if you're just a jewelry, art or metal-worker fan, you definitely need to check out Victoria's shop so be sure to follow the link below and take a browse around!


TO VISIT THE VIXENWARE SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU'D RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Sunday, November 8, 2009

On to the Romantic and More....

Once upon a time, I thought that I had some pretty impressive talent with a camera. It turns out? It wasn't the camera or my skills at all, it was what and where I was photographing. Nothing has rubbed this in more than the experience of being a part of Etsy and trying to photograph my own products!

Like most things I wish I could do but just don't have a talent for, I have a huge (and growing with every click of my own camera's lens) appreciating for talented photographers.

Susan O'Connor at Pretty Petal Studio definitely falls into this category!

In her shop, she has it described just right. "Where modern and vintage imagery intertwine."


I've browsed -all- of her work and I can honestly say there's not a single photograph in the entire shop that I didn't like. The one to the left? That's just one of my favorites. They're all beautiful. They're all remarkable. And some of them are downright breathtaking!


Not only Does Susan have the kind of imagery that reaches in to touch your heart and soul, it's reasonably priced as well. I can't imagine a better gift for anyone who's into photography or beautiful, imaginative works of art.

Her shop is definitely worth more than a glance, so go take a look and spend some time wandering through what I consider to be one of the most beautiful galleries of photography out there on the web!


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT PRETTYPETALSTUDIO'S ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Ethora... Euphoria!

"I see the moon and the moon sees me, down through the leaves of an old oak tree..."

What can I say? I could wax poetic on this woman's work for... ever! She makes the most unusual and unique Tree of Life pendants and jewelry that I've ever seen.

Each piece is made of reclaimed silver and other than my absolute favorite (I have a thing for that moon in the barren branches!) with vibrant and beautiful gemstones.

Each one is a celebration of the interconnectedness of all life on our planet and a beautiful, wearable demonstration of your admiration and love for life and mother nature. She even has a
tutorial on how you can make your own!

Now, if the Tree of Life design isn't your thing? Don't worry, Ethora's shop is still definitely worth a browse because not only does Ethora make Tree of Life pendants; she also has some beautiful gemstone rings and earrings as well.


And get this! Not only is each piece she crafts unique, meaningful and durable, they all come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee for as long as she's alive!


So take a look. If you're like me, wandering through her shop won't be just a wonderful browsing and shopping experience but a wonderful experience all the way around! There's just something about Ethora that makes the vibe in her shop reach out and touch on the need for some serenity in all of us!

TO VISIT ETHORA'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Home Town Bliss and Peaceful Days

That's what I stumbled across in my browsing the other day. Beautiful paintings ranging from large murals your walls to tiny miniatures you wear!

Pastel Originals doesn't just sell hand painted pendants like I have pictured here, but you can really see the detail and craftsmanship in those in particular!

The pendant pictured here is only about an inch-and-a-half in size and yet the detail is clear, sharp and beautiful!

And she doesn't just paint on pendants either! In her shop you can find Mini-Art painted on thread spools and full size paintings ranging in size from 5x7 to 18x24 and even a few that are even larger!

Melanie Moyle runs Pastel Originals and she's written up a beautiful shop introductory as well (not to mention a remarkable banner!)

"When you purchase an item from my shop, your not just getting a one of a kind original painting.

Your getting your very own quiet peaceful place full of fresh air and the sounds of running water and birds in the trees. The memory of children laughing in the distance.

This is where the stress of your day can melt away. Here in the memories of a happy yesterday."

For anyone looking for a taste of that sweet bliss described above, whether for a gift to another, a spot on your wall at home or even to wear, this is one place you shouldn't miss out on browsing through.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT PASTELORIGINALS' ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Truly Unique Footwear Style

Like many women out there, I have a "thing" for shoes. I love shoes and have tons and tons of them. At the same time? I can never have too many. There's always another pair just around the corner waiting with my name on it.

Because of this, Scholarly Articles is one of those shops where I could spend hours! Why? Because she sells SHOES.

Yes, you heard me right, *shoes* on Etsy! Unique and interesting shoes too. One-of-a-kind hand-painted vintage shoes to be exact. (She does handbags too, btw, and both are beautiful.)

She hand-paints all of her shoes and handbags with professional-quality leather paint and then seal them with an acrylic leather sealer. This process allows the painted leather to stretch and bend without damaging the artwork depicted on it.

Not only that, but all bags and most of the shoes are vintage, with a few newer shoes thrown-in for women with feet that do not fit into vintage. And she welcomes custom requests as well!

If you're looking for the perfect gift for someone who appreciates one-of-a-kind wearable art or eco-conscious fashion, you should definitely check out Scholarly Articles! For that matter, if you love shoes or handbags? The same applies!


TO VISIT SCHOLARLYARTICLES' SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Now for Something Completely Different!

I love to browse through Craft Gawker (and Food Gawker, for that matter!), and I just recently had one of my own photographs featured on their site yesterday. It's a great site with wonderful eye candy to browse through, and it's how I discovered this truly unique and talented duo.

Veronica and Isaac run the Book of Art shop on Etsy and their products are like nothing I've ever seen before.

They take books, all different kinds of books, and turn them into beautiful 3D art by folding the interior pages. Kind of like full-book origami.

In this case, it's hard to describe but the results are truly eye-catching and a picture is definitely worth a few thousand words! Just take a look at the picture to the left to see what I mean.

Isaac is the artist who creates these amazing pieces of art and his wife Veronica runs their shop on Etsy. If you really want a truly unique gift to amaze the book lovers and readers in your life, I'd definitely recommend checking Book of Arts out!


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT BOOKOFARTS' ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Aurora Borealis Entombed in Stone

I'm a big fan of labradorite. I've always been drawn to that subtle shimmer in what for all rights looks like it should be a dull stone. To me, labradorite is never dull but holds a beauty and depth that isn't in-your-face but more subtle and elegant than most gemstones.

When I saw BeadsInTheBelfry's avatar on the Etsy Forums, I was immediately struck with the beauty of the piece in their avatar and followed the link to the shop, forgetting all about the thread I was posting in. The piece was just that eye-catching that it drew my attention and banished everything else from my mind.

This Labradorite Filigree Scroll Ring is that breathtaking piece.

Nina Jackson created each individual piece of scroll work by hand and soldered them together. She then soldered them to a sterling silver sheet to create a closed filigree form. The labradorite itself is bezel cut and shines with shades of green and blue. She even cut out a peep hole at the back to allow more light into the stone.

I've fallen in love with this piece and there's more beautiful, quality work to browse through in her shop with plenty of excellently taken photographs to show everything off. Go take a look and see!

TO VISIT BEADSINTHEBELFRY'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE ABOVE OR, IF YOU RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Eco Chic Hand Knits

This is a woman with with talent in spades!

I've always admired knitters, it's just one of those skills I've never been able to master. In fact, anything involving fabric, thread, yarn or a sewing machine can be counted on that list.

Maybe it's because of this that I have such a great appreciation for others who have this talent and make beautiful, eye-catching pieces.

Barbara over at Eco Chic Hand Knits is one of these people. I'm particularly infatuated with her beautiful nesting bowls.

Along with being a talented knitter, Barbara also is an advocate for the environment! All of her products are made with 100% organic cotton yarn which is very environmentally friendly. And, it says on her profile that she tries to cut down on my waste as much as possible and saves all scraps of yarn to use for other products.


On this same thread, she also only uses packaging made from recycled materials and suggests to others that they are welcome to reuse them if they can. Even her business and thank you cards are made from recycled products!


She has beautiful pieces in her shop and does custom orders, so if you're looking for something to brighten up your home or give as a gift that's both unique and environmentally friendly, I'd definitely suggest taking a browse around her shop.


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT ECOCHICHANDKNITS' ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Autumn Creativity Abounds!

I love Autumn, it's without a doubt my favorite time of year. It used to compete with spring because both are times of significant change but over the years Autumn has won out again and again because there's always so many beautiful decorating and crafting opportunities in Autumn that you just don't find in the spring.

The other day I ran across someone who also agrees Autumn is her favorite time of year and she celebrates it by making some of the most beautiful hand crafted jewelry I've ever seen!


I first noticed her from her avatar on the Etsy Forum, which feature
s what is, without a doubt, my favorite piece of jewelry I've seen on Etsy to date!

That would be Jane Font's Autumn Garden Party Ring in Fine Silver.

Not only is the ring absolutely gorgeous, but this is a woman that really knows how to take a picture! I've browsed (and drooled!) my way through her shop and she never fails to impress both in her beautiful jewelry as well as her terrifically detailed photographs that show her work off to perfection.

DaisyJaneDesigns is part of the Etsy MetalClay Team, and if her work is any indication? I really -have- to go take a look at more of their artists!


YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT DAISYJANEDESIGN'S ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Cute Little Kitties in all Shapes and Colors

I can honestly say that I'm not -usually- a doll person. It's not my thing. I mean, yes, yes. I'm a girl and occasionally I topple for a little plushy crush now and then but on the all, just not my thing.

That said, I stumbled across the cutest little doll today when I was perusing stocking stuffers in an Etsy Forum post and I just had do share!

Isn't she adorable?? The Visit StitchyWooWoo's Etsy Shop!minute I saw her, it made me smile.

This Lucky Black Cat Art doll is made by StitchyWooWoo over at Etsy. She has a whole lot of really cute dolls and I love her cats. Her shop is filled some terrific photographs of them all too.

There's plenty there for every consummate shopper to peruse through and if you like cats or dolls? This should definitely be on your lists of must-see shops. So go check her out! I'm sure she'd love to have you stop by.

TO VISIT STITCHYWOOWOO'S SHOP YOU CAN CLICK THE PICTURE TO THE LEFT OR, IF YOU RATHER, CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Look what I just bought!

Okay, okay so I told myself when I joined Etsy to sell my stuff that I wouldn't go willy-nilly buying everything I ran across that I fell in love with.

And for the
Click to Visit MindieLee's Etsy Shop!most part? I've kept to that promise. On the other hand, I just couldn't resist these little Christmas tree lampwork beads. They are SO adorable. I wish I could have bought all 12 she has available but I made myself show some restraint and bought a set of four.

Mindielee has a lot of cute stuff like this in her Etsy shop too! She shows some real talent and a wonderful eye for vibrant eye-catching colors that you just don't see that often turn out classy instead of cheap. She pulls it off beautifully! You should check out her shop if you have a chance. She's really friendly too! I needed to work with her in email for payment due to a PayPal server hiccup and she was great.

YOU CAN CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO VISIT MINDIELEE'S ETSY SHOP OR, IF YOU PREFER, CLICK RIGHT HERE.

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