Today's featured artist is Dawn Rhodes of SHADES Jewelry Designs

Who are you?

Dawn Rhodes - SHADES Jewelry Designs

Where are you located?

Shade, Ohio (southeast corner of the state, 10 minutes outside of Athens)

What do you create?

beaded jewelry

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

No, not yet...doubt that I ever will. Afraid that if it becomes a "job" it won't be as fun!! ;-)

Where do you sell your creations?

I sell to friends, family, and a great customer base. My Etsy site is http://shadesjewelry.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

I create at home...although I have been known to be on the baseball field watching my nephews play and beading at the same time! Makes people interested in your work! Ha!

What inspires you?

I get inspiration from a lot of sources. Clothing, fabrics, nature, there is inspiration all around if you just take the time to look!

What are your goals?

To keep learning and creating beautiful jewelry for years to come. So many different styles and techniques and I want to always keep learning and incorporating new mediums in my work!

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

They love my work. They are some of my best customers and advertisers!

What do you do when you are not creating?

I like to read, love to travel and enjoy sports!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I donate a large portion of my sales to Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society. I have had several family members affected by this terrible disease and I like being able to do my part to help out.

Today's featured artist is Nicole Catroppo

Who are you?


My name is Nicole Catroppo. I am an independent, determined, creative woman who would like to contradict the term, "starving artist." Nicole Lee Artistry is the name of my business. I opened an online store at Etsy.com to sell my hand crafted artistan fine jewelry in January of 2008.



Where are you located?


I live near Baltimore, Maryland, in a town called Middle River, which is about an hour and a half north of Washington D.C..



What do you create?


On Etsy, I sell handmade artisan jewelry that is made mainly of gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones, but you will also find jewelry made of other materials. In addition, I make other crafts, not on Etsy, including pre-made scrapbook pages, hand-painted glassware and painted wood crafts. Right now, I'm focusing on jewelry, but if Etsy does well enough for me, I hope to open shops for my other crafts in the future.



Are you able to support yourself with your creations?


Well, I only started doing my crafts full-time on Etsy in January of this year, so I'm working very hard to make a respectable income with it! I provide excellent customer service and I try to get exposure everywhere I can. I want to live this dream more than anything! I'm appreciative to everyone who helps me to make it happen!




Where do you sell your creations?


I currently sell my jewelry on Etsy at http://nicoleleeartistry.etsy.com/, but I recently started seeking stores to carry my pieces. I also always welcome custom orders generated by word of mouth.



Where do you create?


I create in my home. My husband and I have two rooms that I have dedicated as my studio space/our office space.



What inspires you?


I am inspired by everything and anything! I like to think of myself as hypersensitive to my environment and I pay attention to details. I appreciate the littlest of what surrounds me. I could be inspired by music or colors one day and another day I might be inspired by architecture, a conversation or nature. I'm consistently inconsistent, so I like that...it adds variety to my work and keeps things exciting, but I am very inspired by details.



What are your goals?


First and foremost, I want to bring something to this world with with I do. I want to be able to give back to others, so I want to make a respectable income at doing what I love to return what God has given to me. I am a helping and giving person and I want this business to enable me not only to pay bills, but to be able to GIVE.



What do you friends and family think of your creations?


They are SO supportive and are very excited about what the future holds. My friends are always willing to help me market or sell and are always willing to contribute whatever they can to help me to be successful. My family cares, provides encouragement, share in my joys and divides my sorrows. They have always encouraged me to pursue my artistic talents and above all else, they want me to be happy. I know that they are happy to see my dreams beginning to happen for me.



What do you do when you are not creating?


I spend time marketing my business by posting in the Etsy forums, chatting in the chat rooms, passing out business cards, going door to door to local businesses and work on staying organized. When I'm not doing any of that, I spend time with my husband and our three dogs, our friends and our family. We enjoy visiting our local Starbucks or Five Guys Burgers and Fries, talking, watching movies, working on our home improvement projects or joining our family and friends for church and gatherings.



Is there anything else you would like to share with us?


I'd like to share a prayer that I received from a friend, that I like very much. God is a strength in my life and I would not be a happy, healthy person pursuing my dreams without His many blessings, so... (Paraphrased, Author unknown) "I pray for God to bless anyone who took the time to read this. I pray that they will know how much I appreciate the time, effort, thoughtfullness and consideration that was invested into creating this "featured artist" entry and that I appreciate and thank God for all business that may come my way as a result of it. I pray for God to show those reading this a new revelation of His love and power and that He will minister to their spirit at this very moment. I pray for God to bless their homes, families, finances, their comings and their goings. In Jesus' precious name, I pray this. Amen.

Today's featured artist is Laura of Chicken Pox Designs

Who are you?


My name's Laura, and I'm a 20-year-old student. I have a little craft shop on Etsy, Chicken Pox Designs.



Where are you located?


I live in Finland, Northern Europe.



What do you create?

I got a sewing machine as a graduation present a few years ago, and I've been sewing little things since then. I don't seem to have patience to make clothes, so I generally stick to pouches and bags, which are more fun to make! I'm also periodically into many other kinds of arts and crafts. I recently opened another shop to sell craft supplies.




Are you able to support yourself with your creations?
My craft business is more like a part time job and a great way to relax. Being a full time student doesn't leave me that much time to work but thanks to my Etsy shop, I don't have to clean hotel rooms any more!



Where do you sell your creations?


Mostly through my Etsy shop: http://chickenpox.etsy.com/. I also have a small shop on DaWanda: http://en.dawanda.com/ChickenPox. My shop for supplies is Mitten Crab Supplies: http://mittencrab.etsy.com/



Where do you create?


At home, in our one-bedroom apartment. On some days, my fabric boxes take over the whole living room.



What inspires you?


My grandmother passed away a year ago and I inherited some of her fabric stacks and sewing notions. Working with vintage materials with a history is really inspiring. I also enjoy any colourful and original fabrics I find in fabric shops and online. It's all about prettying up the everyday life.



What are your goals?


I wish I could one day use up all those stashes of fabrics that seem to accumulate constantly... I'm hoping to get stable sales and introduce Chicken Pox Designs to more people.



What do you friends and family think of your creations?


I think I got my love for crafts from my mum, so she's been really supportive. We had all kinds of crafts projects together when I was younger, from miniature moss forests to Christmas cards. Everyone's been really supportive of my business.



What do you do when you are not creating?


I study Fine Art, so I spend most of my time with artistic activities. I'm mostly into contemporary photography, and I've been reading a lot art theory lately. I also enjoy movies, music and of course crafts!

Co owners are co featured artists today.

Who are you?

Lynn Frauenholz and Brandy T Shaw, co-owners and fashion designers for 2 Girls & Plastic.

Where are you located?

We are in the Seattle area.

What do you create?

We alter vintage clothing and modernize it to be fashionable in today's market, as well as make accessories for women and men.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Not just yet, we both still have our full time jobs but are gearing up for a big site release this spring. As well as two collections to be released, one in the spring with the site and one in fall. If all works out in a year we will be doing this full time.

Where do you sell your creations?

Currently we are solely on etsy, though we will have a shop on our site. We are looking into what boutiques and stores we would like to sell through in the Seattle area, as well as in LA and other locations. http://2girlsplastic.etsy.com/ http://www.2girlsplastic.com/

Where do you create?

We have a very small room in Brandy's house that is out creative space. it's a bit cramped but it's 100% ours, so we are happy in it. there is enough room for a sewing machine, surger and storage so we are making the best of it. Oh, and Brandy's giant painting that she's almost done with has it's own corner.

What inspires you?

We are inspired by so many different things as we bring our personalities into our designs. The important ones are: retro fashion, dressing up, vintage millinery, Betty Page, tattoo art, John Galliano, Japan, Paris, romance, and things that exist beyond trends.

What are your goals?

To try and take over the world, oh wait.. no thats not it. Haha! Our goals are to open our shop in April, get a real photo shoot under our belts, and to create fabulous clothing that all people regardless of size can wear and feel confident in. we really want to bring back dressing to look good, not just to be clothed. there is no fun in that.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

Everyone in our lives is really supportive. When we let people know what we are working on they get really excited and want to help us in some way. It's a great feeling to know that we have so many people rooting for us to succeed.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Lynn crafts, reads fashion magazines from cover to cover, studies Japanese, games, and drinks copious amounts of tea. Brandy paints, sews, knits, crochets, plays with her dogs and spends time with her husband.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

We have nutty humor with each other and have never made it through a drive-thru without fits of giggles. In addition, we both blog about life in general and most importantly what we are working on for the business. we want to share what we do and get people excited about art and fashion. we encourage people to visit our blogs and ask us questions if you ever want to know how we have done something. Our blogs: http://brandy.2girlsplastic.com/ and http://lynn.2girlsplastic.com/

Today's featured artist is Mel Roska

Who are you?

My name is Mel Roska. I live in San Francisco with my boyfriend and my two cats, Ava and Nick Nolte.

What do you create?

Mostly I make notebooks out of paper that would have otherwise been thrown away, using the album covers from old scratched records. I also have been known to make buttons, postcards, collages and even paintings.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Not yet. I like to dream that that will happen someday. Right now I have to work at a 9-5 desk job.

Where do you sell your creations?

At this point I am only selling at etsy.com. Which is fine because etsy is awesome! http://roska.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

We have a really nice one bedroom apartment, but it is tiny. I have a tendency to take over our living room making books. Most of the time there is paper everywhere!

What inspires you?

I am inspired by old books that I pick up at thrift stores and estate sales, especially wildlife guides. I'm inspired by San Francisco, there is so much to see everytime I walk out my door; the street art, the architecture, the fashion. Not to mention the amazing artists who are working here. There are also a couple of blogs I look at that are always inspiring me, http://myloveforyou.typepad.com/, written by an awesome gal featuring up and coming artists, and http://acejet170.typepad.com/, which is a blog about typography and graphic design.

What are your goals?

I would love to be able to sell on etsy full time, but I think for me that's not a realistic goal. So, I hope to find a job that allows me to be use my creativity everyday, and for roska handmade to grow and grow.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

My friends and family have been so supportive. I think most of them have a roska handmade notebook. My mom and my friend jessica actually have their own etsy shops, http://jillroska.etsy.com/ and http://sweetfortreats.etsy.com/, respectively, so we have been helping each other out.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Unfortunately, I mostly work. But if I'm not at work you can probably find me at the movies, I love movies and have a yearly goal to watch 200 movies I've never seen before, or you may find me at the thrift stores, I am a shopaholic! Every tuesday night I'm at the Edinburgh Castle, a bar with where my friends and I participate (and dominate) a weekly pub trivia quiz. I also have three blogs that I write for; my personal craft blog, http://melroska.com/, my movie blog, http://oneandoneisfourhundred.blogspot.com/, and my friend's blog, which I've just started writing for, http://8bitlouie.blogspot.com/. I've got to keep busy!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I am so glad I found etsy! It's really changed my life. When I started making books I really had no inkling that I would be able to be even semisuccessful selling them to anyone. Etsy has introduced me to a whole new world of awesome crafts and a global community of really great people.

Today's featured artist is Rebecca Dixon

Who are you?

Rebecca Dixon, co-owner of Up from the Ashes

Where are you located?

Folsom, Pennsylvania

What do you create?

A little of everything! I make all sorts of wearable wings, leather masks, jewelry, I just taught myself to crochet. Really anything with three dimensions is fair game for me.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

I wish!!! Working really hard so someday I can be a full-time artist!

Where do you sell your creations?

On etsy at http://upfromtheashes.etsy.com/

My website http://www.upfromtheashespa.com/

And in the world's most charming store, Earth&State in Media, Pennsylvania http://earthandstate.com/

Where do you create?

I have a work room in my apartment that is jam-packed with fabric, wire, and every other kind of art supply you can imagine. I also took over the dining room table with my leather work, and the front porch houses my airbrush booth.

What inspires you?

Everything! Just open your eyes-inspiration is everywhere, you just have to be open to it.

What are your goals?

To one day be able to be a self-supporting artist. (World famous would be nice too!)

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

They don't understand, but try to be supportive. Which is nice than just telling me they all think I'm crazy.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Um, yeah...sleep? I am always working on something. I fall asleep watching movies unless my hands are busy.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I have a BFA in painting/drawing and Sculpture and I make it a point to learn a new technique or skill every year, if not sooner. Last year was leather mask making, this year was crochet. I think I will try knitting next.

C. E.. Gooch is my featured artist today

Who are you?

I'm c.e.gooch., scatterbrained entrepreneur and expert mess maker.

Where are you located?

Merritt Island, FLAH-rida

What do you create?

One of a kind hand-decorated frames "for the beasts in our lives" (It's part of my tag line. Dig it.)

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Heck no. Haven't quit the day job yet.

Where do you sell your creations?

I sell on Etsy: http://sobdog.etsy.com And I have given quite a few away as gifts.

Where do you create?

Usually on the dining room floor, although my mess has been known to creep into the kitchen once in a while.

What inspires you?

Things from my childhood: colors, patterns, etc.

What are your goals?

To make people laugh.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

*shrug* I get the obligatory laugh.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Check email. Seriously. It's ridiculous. Oh, and I also daydream about becoming a successful artist or writer who never has to work a real job again.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I'd like to ask a favor of everyone out there: PLEASE don't take life too seriously. Don't be afraid to laugh at what's really funny. Especially if it's yourself.

Today's featured artists are Gavin and Erin of Dinner Time Charms

Who are you?

We’re Dinner Time Chimes (a.k.a. Gavin & Erin)

Where are you located?

We’re located in eastern North Carolina.

What do you create?

We create windchimes from discarded silverplate silverware, hence the shop name, in addition to other silverware creations. We’ve recently added other recycled items for your home as well (birdhouses and bird feeders).

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

The Etsy shop is just a way to sell the things that we enjoy making, I don’t see it becoming a full-time job any time soon.

Where do you sell your creations?

In addition to local stores and craft shows, our creations are sold online at DinnerTimeChimes http://dinnertimechimes.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

Most of the work is done outside or in the workshop, but the silver polishing is done while watching TV to make it seem like less of a chore!

What inspires you?

The smiles when people take a good look at the windchime or birdhouse and realize what it’s actually made from.

What are your goals?

Our current goal revolves around bird houses. We’ve started deconstruction of an old barn, and we are using that wood to create blue bird houses. Keep your eyes open for new and exciting additions to our Etsy shop & displays at the craft shows this summer.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

Our families enjoy seeing the new creations. They’re also a huge help when it comes to finding more silverware for the windchimes. On the other hand, friends find our creations unusual. They will admit that it’s neat how we’ve transformed one person’s trash into something even they would like to receive as a gift!

What do you do when you are not creating?

If we’re not creating something for the Etsy store, we’re probably working in our garden.

Today's featured artist is Alisha Vernon

Who are you?

My name is Alisha Vernon. I'm a 24 year old girl who loves to paint. I'm a sister, daughter, wife, and dog owner. I'm also comically proud of the fact that I'm 1/4 Armenian.

Where are you located?

I'm currently living in Klamath Falls, OR. I was raised in Tillamook, OR, and I was born in Fresno, CA.

What do you create?

Paintings. Lately I've really been into abstract paintings and dramatic female faces. I use a high quality acrylic paint sealed with a protective varnish. In my opinion, the end product is just as rich as oils and less harmful to breath. I like a 24" x 36" canvas but I'm running out of room for storage in my small house, so I've started creating smaller pieces on Yupo paper.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Not for now. I'm really just starting with the whole aspect of selling, but I would love for that to be true in the future.

Where do you sell your creations?

Currently on the wonderful Etsy.com. Here's a direct link to my store: http://alishavernon.etsy.com/ I'm frequently adding new work to my Etsy store, so check back often.

Where do you create?

Right now, in my kitchen or living room. I can't wait for the day when I'll have a whole room to dedicate to my art making. (and supplies)

What inspires you?

God's beautiful creation. I mean if I really stop to look at the beauty and colors of a flower, the sunset, or even a piece of fruit it can take my breath away. Also, my late father was, and is a big inspiration. He was always enthusiastic and supportive about my art. He was a painter himself and created excellent work. One of his goals was to "make it" as an artist, but life and money often got in the way. I guess I feel like my accomplishments as an artist are for both of us.

What are your goals?

One of my goals is use my art help others in need. Currently I'm donating 50% of my profits to an organization called Project Rescue, which is an organization working against forced prostitution among women and children, throughout India and Nepal. My hope is that I raise awareness for this group, and the issue in general. I also hope to inspire others to do what they can to be involved in a cause greater than themselves.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

They're all very supportive and quick to give lovely compliments.

What do you do when you are not creating?

I cook dinner for my husband and I, almost every night. Last night was an eggplant green curry. I even cook homemade dog food for my dog. I like to work on my blogs http://alishavernon.com/ and http://meetmyawesomedog.com/. I browse the library. I've been known to get really interested in a certain topic and leave the library only when I've got a stack of books up to my chin, that I can barely carry out to my car. I like going out to coffee, talking with friends and family, being a goof, and watching a couple of my favorite TV shows like The Office, Friday Night Lights, Chuck, and Oprah. I just signed up to be a SMART volunteer again, so hopefully I'll be starting that soon.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I would really love for anyone reading this to be a part of my art journey. To stay updated on new listings and to see all the behind the scenes fun, please consider yourself invited to subscribe to my art blog! I especially love comments and feedback! http://www.alishavernon.com/

I'm a featured artist today on another blog!

I woke up this morning to a conversation from DecMeadow telling me I have been featured the their blog. What an honor!

Please take a moment and check out their blog http://decmeadow.blogspot.com

Today's featured Artist is Heather of Quid

Please welcome this newer Etsy seller.

Who are you?

I'm Heather of QUiD!

Where are you located?

I'm a Texan by birth but Good Old Oklahoma is where I currently lay my claim.

What do you create?

Whatever pops into my head at 2am usually! I love working with vintage items and creating things from clay.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

I've only been at it seriously for a few weeks, so I'll have to keep my day job for now. I do support my inner artist, though!

Where do you sell your creations?

On etsy! http://quid.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

Anywhere I can be out of reach of the kitties! One day I WILL have a studio...

What inspires you?

I'm hugely inspired my mid-century design. But anything can spark a thought, you know?

What are your goals?

To take over the world! Hehe...I'd really like to be able to create things that people love and that I love making for them.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

I'm in the process of working on a *custom* piece for my mom...she's very particular!

What do you do when you are not creating?

I hang out at my marketing job and come up with fancy headlines for emails! And I'm practicing to become the world's coolest superhero...

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Everyone was designed to have a little "creative" in you. Whether you express that through a painting or by uncovering innovative tax deductions, don't forget to use your inner artist!

Today's featured artist is Susan See

Who are you?

Susan See. A single female currently living in NM but who has lived in NJ, NY, Indiana, Colorado, Italy and traveled thru dozens of other states and who plans to move to Europe in 3-4 years.


Where are you located?

Albuquerque, New Mexico USA


What do you create?

I'm a photographer specializing in documentary/street photography, portraits and lately landscapes. I didn't use to be that much of a landscape photog but over the past 3 years I've been shooting more of this subject.


Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

No afraid not at this time but I will eventually. I currently have a M-F office job at the local daily newspaper.

Where do you sell your creations?

Pretty much just here on Etsy for the time being. http://susansee.etsy.com/ Last summer I began selling at various art/farmers markets for the first time and plan on continuing that this summer.


Where do you create?

hmmm....well if I'm understanding the question, I shoot wherever. I like to take road trips to give me new inspiration and it also teaches me a lot about the world.


What inspires you?

Oh gosh....lots of things really. My cat Curio, peeling paint on an old wooden door, crinkled dry leaves, the big eyes of a child, the pained look in a homeless person. I have been shooting since I was a kid (12 or 13) and for me the world is a rectangle thru which I compose. My family inspires me to work on my patience and compassion *lol* My friends inspire me to be a better person.


What are your goals?

To get away from the confines of an office job where I'm stuck indoors for 8+ hours 5 days a week and away from the stagnant energy that lives in such environments. I want to move to Europe and travel all the while shooting and getting paid to do so.


What do you friends and family think of your creations?

Well....my friends are very supportive, always have been. My mom and middle-brother are of the "supportive with the 'why don't you get a real job'" kind of mentality. My oldest brother is also an artist but lucked out in that he's also good with computers *lol* and so he and I are fairly close.


What do you do when you are not creating?

*shiver* gad I try not to think in those terms! *silly smile* Basically if I'm not shooting or editing images or marketing my photos I'm either at work M-F 8am-5pm or I'm asleep!


Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

hmmm...*scratching head*...well not to sound all high and mighty but just to remind people to please go out and vote this year.

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.

Today's featured artist is Heather of Kinichi River Designs

Who are you?

My name is Heather, I am the owner of Kinichi River Designs.

Where are you located?

Northeastern Pennsylvania, USA

What do you create?

For my business: Sock Friends (funny little stuffed critters made from socks), Chainmaille jewelry, and Wire-wrapped jewelry. Not for my business: just about anything I can! I enjoy making paper, carving candles, cross-stitching, sewing, scrapbooking, bookbinding, making ATCs, collages... and tons more that I want to try but have not had the opportunity.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations? No, it is a part-time business. I'd like to keep it part-time, though and am not aiming to support myself this way.

Where do you sell your creations?

At the moment, my creations are only available at my Etsy shop: http://kinichiriver.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

I have an excellent craft room in my new home... but I still usually create on the couch in front of the television. Sometimes I'll put in a movie, but quite often I like to watch episodes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer!

What inspires you?

This is always a tough question for me. I don't usually go into my projects with a design or outcome in mind. This is especially true of my sock friends. I start picking a few socks out, then just cut and sew and let them take shape. I never know quite how they will turn out in the end and I absolutely love that about creating them! Seeing the final moments as I create the mouth and sew on the eyes is so much fun - a new little critter in front of my eyes! I suppose it is the surprise that inspires me.

What are your goals?

I want to continue to grow my business and share my creations with others. I would like my business to be a viable part-time income, but for now, I don't think I would like this to become my full-time job.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

They are endlessly supportive and very excited for me! My husband, especially, has been an amazing source of encouragement and support. He even writes the bios for my sock friends! He's got such a talent with words and really brings those critters to life!

What do you do when you are not creating?

I spend time with my husband when I can. I love to read, do jigsaw puzzles. I have a bit of an obsession with playing Tetris right now. I'm also learning how to ventilate wigs (hand-tied), which has been a fun challenge.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

You can also see more pics on my flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kinichiriver/

Thanks so much for this opportunity!

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.

Today's featured artist is Dilara Casey

Who are you?

My name is Dilara Casey

Where are you located?

I live in Columbus, Ohio

What do you create?

I create a little bit of everything. I knit and crochet, I make jewelry, I have started experimenting with resin, I like to make papercrafts. I also dabble in sewing and needlework. I have a sister-shop called BuckeyeBling http://buckeyebling.etsy.com/ where I make things targeted directly to fans of the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

I have a full time job in addition to selling my goods. My husband is currently in law school so the supplemental income I make from selling my crafts definitely turns a profit and helps pay the bills.

Where do you sell your creations?

I have two etsy shops http://locura.etsy.com/ and http://buckeyebling.etsy.com/ and I sell some of my Buckeye rosaries at a local jeweler here in Columbus called Worthington Jewelers http://www.worthingtonjewelers.com/

Where do you create?

This is an easy one. I create EVERYWHERE. I think it might drive my husband crazy but he is a good sport about it. I mostly make jewelry on the dining room table. I crochet and knit on the couch. I alter clothes in the living room. I cast resin on the patio...I kind of just go wherever there's space. When my husband and I were in a rock band, I would often crochet blankets and scarves in the van while we drove to shows. We live in a small condo and once we get a house it has already been decided that I get a crafting room!

What inspires you?

Retro things mostly. My friend said that my stuff is cool with a 70's vibe. I never intend on that but I guess since I like things that are fun and funky; things you won't see everywhere, it inspires me. I love wearing vintage stuff so I try to make things that are cool and timeless and will transcend trends and fads and last a long time. I think it would be awesome if somebody kept a piece I made and their kids dug it out of their closet one day and decided to start wearing it. Another thing that inspires me is cost; I like to make these things awesome but I also want them to be affordable for people.

What are your goals?

My goals are in three years to quit my full time job and make a living off my creations. By then my husband will be done with law school and I can focus more on taking myself to the next level.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

Every friend and family member I can think of has at least one thing I made and they love it. My husband is especially encouraging and supportive but I have to say that all of my friends and family are great. They come to shows and seem to be just as enthusiastic about my crafts as I am. It is very flattering and such a blessing, it really fuels me.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Sleeping. Seriously. I usually work at my day job from 7:30am-4:30pm and I go to the gym, get home and start creating. I usually don't stop until I literally fall asleep. I can't tell you how many times my husband has pried a crochet hook out of my hands while I am sleeping. But in all honesty, I really love working out, cooking and baking, spending time with my man, going to concerts and traveling. I also collect Pez dispensers. It doesn't take much time except when I do my annual inventory count. That is another story though...

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I have always been involved with crafting in one form or another. My aunt started a craft business in the 1980's and ran it for about 25 years before retiring. She taught me most everything I know about crafting and how to find that balance between business and a hobby. I also saw her get really stressed and burnt out by certain aspects of it so I've been really good with time and project management.

I try to live by one of my favorite quotes from songwriter Jewel,

"My whole goal is to keep my spirit intact. If that doesn't happen, none of this is worth it."

Thanks having this awesome feature on your blog!

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.

Today's featured artist is Caitlyn Wandling

Who are you?

My name is Caitlin Wandling. I am a wife and momma to my two favorite guys!

Where are you located?

I live in Iowa.

What do you create?

I screen print tees. I love how limitless it is. There are so many different directions you can go with it! I also dabble in some sewing and jewelry making.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Not yet! I would love to one day, but for now I have a desk job along with my creative job

Where do you sell your creations?

I sell to friends and family, as well as at http://carmelturtle.com/, http://carmelturtle.etsy.com/, and soon (I know, I know...) http://doubleyou.etsy.com/. Doubleyou will be filled with my non-clothing items.

Where do you create?

I create out of my home in an office I share with my hubby.

What inspires you?

Pregnant bellies, my little man, God & His Word, nature...

What are your goals?

To grow my business up enough for it to be a steady source of support for my family.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

They think it's pretty rad. Who wouldn't??

What do you do when you are not creating?

Work and hang out with my hubby and 1-year-old. I also hang out with friends and family and go to church schtuff.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Uhh...check out my husband's shop @ http://mikethinks.etsy.com/. He's new and awesome and needs some sales. Hehe. Sneaking in a little promo there. Thanks so much for this opportunity!

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.

Today's featured artist is Amy Carter

Who are you?

Amy Carter (not that one)

Where are you located?

Idaho, USA

What do you create?

Lots of things, my passion is drawing and painting, but I also enjoy polymer clay, beads, stained glass, photography and I crochet too.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

I hope to, one day.

Where do you sell your creations?

http://starvnrtist.etsy.com/ http://theunknownstore.com/ and by word of mouth.

Where do you create?

My dining room doubles at my art studio - I have a art station that I just love...the top part is an antique Hoosier top (has the pull out flour bin) and the bottom was marked as a bar, but I am not sure.

What inspires you?

Everything.

What are your goals?

Goals??? I just enjoy being creative, but would love to make a living at it.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

That is the reason I am on etsy...every time I make something I am told 'you could sell that'.What do you do when you are not creating? I enjoy hanging out with friends, helping my husband raise our kids, traveling, junking and ghost hunting.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?You can see more of my work here: http://flickr.com/photos/fatcatcreationsbystarvnrtist/ http://fatcatcreationsbystarvnrtist.blogspot.com/

Support local artists.

Thank you for allowing me to feature you, Amy.

Today's featured Artist is Cassie Ogle

Who are you?

Cassie Ogle

Where are you located?

Southwestern Virginia, the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.

What do you create?

Hand bound books and knit items

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

At the moment, no. I do hope to be able to in the future.

Where do you sell your creations?

In my Etsy Shop: http://thecraftykitten.etsy.com/ I also have my work at the Appalachian Arts Center in Richlands, Virginia.

Where do you create?

I have a small studio at my home that functions nicely during the warm months. During the colder months, I work in my den because my studio gets very cold.

What inspires you?

Color. Color and color combinations amaze me. My current favorite color combination is chocolate brown and light teal or light blue. I love the colors that I find in the world around me. I should not be allowed to drive a sunset because I am staring at the beautiful colors of the sky instead of watching the road.

What are your goals?

My goal is to be able to support myself either strictly with my work or to be able to at least work only part-time.

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

My friends and family love what I create and give me the best honest opinions anyone could ask for. Every time I tell them about something new, I am trying or learning they usually say something like "Is there anything crafty that you haven't done?” I love to try new things! I am currently taking a quilting class with my mom.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Non-creating time for me is not often. Sometimes I veg out in front of the TV watching CSI reruns. My husband and I like to go for long drives down old country roads during the summer. I am an assistant Girl Scout leader and spend a couple nights a month with "The Girls". Other than that, I am pretty much either at work or creating something.


Is there anything else you would like to share with us? I have a blog where I post about my crafting adventures at http://paperkitty.wordpress.com/ Feel free to stop in and say hello!

Thank you for allowing me to feature you, Cassie.

Today's featured artist is Rebecca Bogan of Adobe Sol

Who are you?

My name is Rebecca Bogan. I am a wife and mother of two daughters, one of which has recently been diagnosed with Type-1 Diabetes. I am the artist and owner of Adobe Sol Designs.





Where are you located?
I live in Corrales, New Mexico, USA.


What do you create?
I design and create artisan jewelry. I hand-pick the finest quality materials available and particularly enjoy using sterling silver and copper metals, gemstones, and vintage glass beads. Many of my designs feature magnificent lampwork beads handmade by talented glass artisans. All of the materials are brought together in each unique piece with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.


Are you able to support yourself with your creations?
I support my creative-habit by selling my jewelry. I am a firm believer in investing for cash flow (your money working for you)... That is a whole different interview.


Where do you sell your creations?
I have a personal website and an etsy shop.
Adobe Sol designs:
http://www.adobesol.com/
http://adobesol.etsy.com/


Where do you create?
I do all of my "magic" in my home studio. I am planning to build a little outdoor studio in my backyard this spring. I like the fresh air and sunlight.


What inspires you?
I would love to give you a beautiful story about what inspires me... but... The fact is I am inspired by anything when the mood strikes me. I think of designs when trying to sleep, taking a walk, watching TV,... you name it (not very glamorous).




What are your goals?
For one thing I want to use my jewelry to educate people about Type-1 (juvenile) Diabetes. As I mentioned above, I have a daughter inflicted with that disease. I am very active with the local JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) chapter. I also have a section on my website where the sale prices are donated to JDRF.

I want to continue and build my business to allow for creative outletting. It is my therapy! It definately gives me a rush that people are all over the world wearing my creations... OK there is the ego talking!




What do your friends and family think of your creations?
The people in my life LOVE what I do. My friends buy a lot from me and my family looks forward to Christmas and birthdays. LOL... I have a lot of support from the people in my life.


What do you do when you are not creating?
Being a mother is my most important job. I also ride horses, mountain bike... those are the fun things!


Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I was raised in Southern California and have been fortunate enough to have lived in many US cities and Madrid, Spain. I now live in Corrales, New Mexico. I have been creating artistic "things" since I was a child. In recent years I decided to apply my artistic talents to creating my own beautiful handcrafted jewelry. And so... Adobe Sol Designs began.

On a very personal note... I am a mother of a 14 year old child with Type-1-Diabetes. She is insulin dependent for the rest of her life. I have a Charity section set up on my website. 100% of the sale price of those items will be donated directly to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. JDRF does great work in finding a cure and I am thrilled to be able to contribute.




Thank you for allowing me to feature you, Rebecca.

Today's featured artist is Hannah Nielson

Who are you?

Hannah Nielsen

Where are you located?

Northwest Arkansas, USA

What do you create?

I create scarves and other accessories.

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

Nope, not yet.

Where do you sell your creations?

Locally and at http://elegantscarf.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

I create in my home, I recently transformed a spare bedroom into a fiber studio. :)

What inspires you?

I'm draw inspiration from many places — nature, life, books, the materials' color and texture.

What are your goals?

I would love to support myself with my creations; I'm planning to diversify my shop's offerings more in the next year, as well as focus more on using recycled materials. I also hope to learn how to spin this year.

What do your friends and family think of your creations?

They help promote my items. I guess that means they like them, huh?

What do you do when you are not creating?

I read, cook, blog — http://skarph.com/blog http://wordlily.wordpress.com/ and http://fikafood.wordpress.com/ — and spend time with friends and family.

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.

Today's Featured artist is Julie Diers

Who are you?

julie diers

Where are you located?

pennsylvania, USA

What do you create?

handcrafted windowsill herb gardens

Are you able to support yourself with your creations?

not yet....

Where do you sell your creations?

etsy... http://etsybunnie.etsy.com/

Where do you create?

my bedroom is my work space...my sanctuary

What inspires you?

all things green and growing

What are your goals?

to make my little herb business a success!!maybe a world wide phenomena!!! (:

What do you friends and family think of your creations?

they are very encouraging and supportive!!

What do you do when you are not creating?

think about creating

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

i love to create these little herb gardens and i hope they will bring a smile to others the way they do mine by creating them!!!thanks so much for letting me be part of your blog!!

Thank you for allowing me to feature you.