It's that time again! Spring Bada-BING time, that is!
The Richmond Craft Mafia is now accepting applications for our 4th annual spring show. If you want to be a vendor at The BOSS of All Craft Shows, fill out an online application here:
http://www.springbadabing.com/vendors.htm
The show will be held on Sunday, April 19th from 11am - 4pm at Plant Zero, one of the coolest spots in Richmond, VA. Last year's show was a rockin' good time and we are super pleased to be able to host over 60 vendors again this year!
The deadline for applying is March 6th. There is a $5.00 application fee.
If you won't be able to make it there are still plenty of other ways to be a part of this awesome show. Check the site for sponsorship opportunities or to contribute to our ever-popular swag bags!
http://www.springbadabing.com
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EAOC member Nicole Lee soleilrouge.etsy.com
Showing posts with label artists. Show all posts
Showing posts with label artists. Show all posts
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Spotlight On ...
Paula Bidwell of Native Talisman Art!1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am an American Indian artist and jeweler. I am also considered an Indigenous Healer and spent many years on the reservation learning. I combine both worlds into my art. I draw, paint and illustrate the visions, dreams and mystical experiences I’ve had. This work is so gratifying because it resonates with so many other people. I also believe strongly that we are all related and there is very little separation between us. When making jewelry or creating traditional crafts I use materials and symbols that have meaning and substance in a spiritual sense.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
I love to cook and consider this a creative endeavor that fits nicely with my artist jeweler life
I’m working on a new cook book called “Hard Times—Fast and Decadent Comfort Foods" with recipes that are fast, easy and inexpensive.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
My Etsy shop “Native talisman Art” has art prints (from my dreams, visions and experiences), hand painted leather medicine bags, Native Amercian cookbooks, and a new line of Native American Bone (Hair Pipe) Chokers, necklaces and earrings.
I love to cook and consider this a creative endeavor that fits nicely with my artist jeweler life
I’m working on a new cook book called “Hard Times—Fast and Decadent Comfort Foods" with recipes that are fast, easy and inexpensive.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
My Etsy shop “Native talisman Art” has art prints (from my dreams, visions and experiences), hand painted leather medicine bags, Native Amercian cookbooks, and a new line of Native American Bone (Hair Pipe) Chokers, necklaces and earrings.
4. Where do you create?
Everywhere...kitchen, studio, and many times lying prone on the sofa!
Everywhere...kitchen, studio, and many times lying prone on the sofa!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
Inspiration usually comes to me around 4:00 a.m. when the world is quiet and still. I think at this time, I can reach out and capture the more mystical and magical elements of the world around me. I also spend quite a bit of time thinking about new designs. If I’m especially excited about something, I can stay focused for hours and sometimes days. The process of designing in my mind is a pleasurable one for me and has been really successful. It’s almost like I tap into some sort of creative mystical zone where everything is possible. The materials I use are so varied. I’ll try anything and everything to achieve the design. I don’t believe much in limits.
Inspiration usually comes to me around 4:00 a.m. when the world is quiet and still. I think at this time, I can reach out and capture the more mystical and magical elements of the world around me. I also spend quite a bit of time thinking about new designs. If I’m especially excited about something, I can stay focused for hours and sometimes days. The process of designing in my mind is a pleasurable one for me and has been really successful. It’s almost like I tap into some sort of creative mystical zone where everything is possible. The materials I use are so varied. I’ll try anything and everything to achieve the design. I don’t believe much in limits.
6. How did you learn your craft?
When I was very young, my father who was an artist, recognized some sort of talent in me and on my tenth birthday presented me with a full set of oil paints, canvases, brushes and easel. He gently guided me with paints, pen and ink and charcoal. The jewelry came later. My uncle showed me how to solder silver. Then a brother showed me how to cut and stamp. The beaded jewelry started when I was a teenager and various relatives and friends showed me different techniques along the way.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Since most of my sales are from my internet stores, I really research keywords and read everything I can about Search Engine Optimization. I also belong to several networking groups such as Flickr and IndiePublic. When I list an item on Etsy, I upload the photos and descriptions to these sites. On my e-mail signature I add a “clickable” URL for my stores. And most of all, I am a member of Etsy Artist of Color.
When I was very young, my father who was an artist, recognized some sort of talent in me and on my tenth birthday presented me with a full set of oil paints, canvases, brushes and easel. He gently guided me with paints, pen and ink and charcoal. The jewelry came later. My uncle showed me how to solder silver. Then a brother showed me how to cut and stamp. The beaded jewelry started when I was a teenager and various relatives and friends showed me different techniques along the way.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Since most of my sales are from my internet stores, I really research keywords and read everything I can about Search Engine Optimization. I also belong to several networking groups such as Flickr and IndiePublic. When I list an item on Etsy, I upload the photos and descriptions to these sites. On my e-mail signature I add a “clickable” URL for my stores. And most of all, I am a member of Etsy Artist of Color.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
To do what I love and to love doing it.
To do what I love and to love doing it.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
List or renew items frequently and in the early evening when most people are home from work and have the time to browse. Read Storque articles, network with other Etsy artists through Etsy groups and forums, have lots of items in your store at least 2 dozen and take really good pictures, include everything you can think of in your description.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Foret—Emporium of the Unique, Indigenous Art—Ornaments and Prints , The Lote tree—Hand made with Love, and Native Beads .
Foret—Emporium of the Unique, Indigenous Art—Ornaments and Prints , The Lote tree—Hand made with Love, and Native Beads .
Friday, November 21, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Lily of LilyPoh!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a Singaporean Peranakan Chinese living in a small and relatively modern country, Singapore. Peranakans refer to the descendants of the early Chinese community who settled in the Malay Archipelago from the 17th century. The Peranakan culture is a rich blend of the Chinese and Malay cultures with some influence from the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Thai, Indian and Indonesian cultures as well. Singapore consists of Chinese, Malay, Indian and European immigrants, the culture of Singapore expresses the diversity of the population as the various ethnic groups continue to celebrate their own cultures while they intermingle with one another.I have a strong desire for handmade products as it allows me to be creative with my hands. My Peranakan cultural background provides a rich blend in style for my products. I sincerely hope that my handmade products would bring joy to you and your love ones.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a Singaporean Peranakan Chinese living in a small and relatively modern country, Singapore. Peranakans refer to the descendants of the early Chinese community who settled in the Malay Archipelago from the 17th century. The Peranakan culture is a rich blend of the Chinese and Malay cultures with some influence from the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Thai, Indian and Indonesian cultures as well. Singapore consists of Chinese, Malay, Indian and European immigrants, the culture of Singapore expresses the diversity of the population as the various ethnic groups continue to celebrate their own cultures while they intermingle with one another.I have a strong desire for handmade products as it allows me to be creative with my hands. My Peranakan cultural background provides a rich blend in style for my products. I sincerely hope that my handmade products would bring joy to you and your love ones.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
It seems like I can't get away from creative life as I am a Graphic Designer in the day. Designing printed materials, like brochures, catalogues, calendars, business cards, invitation cards...etc. Besides doing all the designing works, I also love to bake cookies.
It seems like I can't get away from creative life as I am a Graphic Designer in the day. Designing printed materials, like brochures, catalogues, calendars, business cards, invitation cards...etc. Besides doing all the designing works, I also love to bake cookies.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I love cute and personalized products that will personalize my cell phone, gadgets and handbags, making it truly mine. As such, I would also like others to have such personalized products too. Therefore, I offer the following in my Etsy Shop:
I love cute and personalized products that will personalize my cell phone, gadgets and handbags, making it truly mine. As such, I would also like others to have such personalized products too. Therefore, I offer the following in my Etsy Shop:
1) Appointment Diary with Personalized Initials
2) Note Pad with Personalized Name
3) Limited Phone/Bag Charms/KeyChains
4) Jewellery
5) Pouch Gift Sets
6) Business Cards Case/CDs Case
4. Where do you create?
All my products are created in my study room. I would sketch my thoughts and ideas on a sketch book and then convert it into a detailed blue-print. With this blue-print, I would then create it into a final product.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from almost anywhere. Example, a cute image from a t-shirt, wrapping papers, cloths, cartoon, children’s story books, plates, cups...etc.
I get my inspiration from almost anywhere. Example, a cute image from a t-shirt, wrapping papers, cloths, cartoon, children’s story books, plates, cups...etc.
6. How did you learn your craft?
Self-taught from crafted books especially those felt charms (I should thank God for giving me this creative gift). As for printed products such as appointment diary, note pads, namecards..etc, they are taught by my aunties. They taught me how to bound the pads and do those printing layouts.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have printed postcards and business cards that I take with me everywhere I go. I also have a portfolio on linkreferral, facebooks, Dawanda, eCrater, a blog, flickr, Smidge, I love Etsy (unofficial website)and a personal website (desire2.com). I also give out samples of my products in trade shows from US, UK, Germany for their goodies bags.My philosophy of my product is that even if it is sitting in a shop somewhere untouched, someone will see it and remember it and would eventually find it’s way to a right buyer.
Self-taught from crafted books especially those felt charms (I should thank God for giving me this creative gift). As for printed products such as appointment diary, note pads, namecards..etc, they are taught by my aunties. They taught me how to bound the pads and do those printing layouts.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have printed postcards and business cards that I take with me everywhere I go. I also have a portfolio on linkreferral, facebooks, Dawanda, eCrater, a blog, flickr, Smidge, I love Etsy (unofficial website)and a personal website (desire2.com). I also give out samples of my products in trade shows from US, UK, Germany for their goodies bags.My philosophy of my product is that even if it is sitting in a shop somewhere untouched, someone will see it and remember it and would eventually find it’s way to a right buyer.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Go for an extra mile when serving a customer, even though the product may cost less than $5.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Be passionate about your work! This passion will stay motivated even if your sales are low. Meet other members in the Etsy community, participate in the forums and chat rooms as these are great places to post questions and find help. Take good pictures of your work and provide many angles of shots so that your product speaks for itself. In my opinion the customer is the most important part of a successful Etsy business. Treat your customers like they are valued, give them a little gift, throw in a little discount whenever possible, ship your product promptly and hopefully the word about your site will spread through positive recommendations.
Go for an extra mile when serving a customer, even though the product may cost less than $5.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Be passionate about your work! This passion will stay motivated even if your sales are low. Meet other members in the Etsy community, participate in the forums and chat rooms as these are great places to post questions and find help. Take good pictures of your work and provide many angles of shots so that your product speaks for itself. In my opinion the customer is the most important part of a successful Etsy business. Treat your customers like they are valued, give them a little gift, throw in a little discount whenever possible, ship your product promptly and hopefully the word about your site will spread through positive recommendations.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Yes, definitely! There are many favorite Etsy artists I like and they are: 1) SaNaHandmadeSoap.etsy.com. This Etsy seller has a range of soaps that are suitable for sensitive skin. 2) HipBone.etsy.com .This soaps seller's philosophy is that if the customer like the product it will be worth the customer paying the shipping cost in the future. 3) Athenasolivetree.etsy.com. This seller can give good advice on her products which best suit your skin and also will not push to sell her products to you. 4) HOST.etsy.com. The seller is friendly and help etsy artists who need helps. Of course there are also more others that I love to work with and I truly appreciate and enjoy their good service.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Ella of EllaParry!1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I'm not very good at descriptions, especially about myself. Hmmm!!Hmmm!! Firstly, I can tell you that I love art, I love to create art. I have always had a strong passion for art ever since I was able to pick up my first pencil as a child. I'm a Chinese born artist but because of the color of my skin plus my curly hair, Chinese people don’t think I am Chinese, but I am Chinese! I am originally from Cambodia, lived in Thailand and Laos as a child and spent most of my teens to mid twenties growing up in Hong Kong. I now live in the London with my lovely musician husband and my cat. I have been here in London for 10 years. I am a freelance illustrator and graphic designer and have been mainly focusing on creating my own products, such as greeting cards to market to major companies.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Art and all the surrounding aspects of art take up the majority of my time. If I’m not drawing, painting or thinking up ideas for my next project, I’m 0n the net promoting myself through companies such as Etsy, naturally. When I’m not doing that, I’m normally “Doing that” or maybe feeding my cat, Summer, she is forever hungry.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
My Etsy shop offer happiness to the people, I aim to make people feel relaxed, smile and forget all the worries they have in the real world and bring them into an Ella Parry fantasy---through my paintings and my greetings card collections.
4. Where do you create?
I don’t have my own studio so I work at home at the moment. If you want want to buy me a studio I won't refuse, I promise!
My Etsy shop offer happiness to the people, I aim to make people feel relaxed, smile and forget all the worries they have in the real world and bring them into an Ella Parry fantasy---through my paintings and my greetings card collections.
4. Where do you create?
I don’t have my own studio so I work at home at the moment. If you want want to buy me a studio I won't refuse, I promise!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
The main inspiration for my work is the hope and happiness of life. I truly believe we all are searching for happiness for our life everyday; my work is an expression of my feeling and my view on life and others.
The main inspiration for my work is the hope and happiness of life. I truly believe we all are searching for happiness for our life everyday; my work is an expression of my feeling and my view on life and others.
6. How did you learn your craft?
It kind of came natural for me to draw and paint. I learned graphic design through Art College and that did help me to transfer my artwork into what it is now.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have signed up to different web sites, such as facebook, myspace, blog, flicker and twitter to promote on line and let everyone about my Etsy shop wherever I go. I will always add my cards to any wall space or chat room that will let me!!!!! Give me more, give me more!!!!!!!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Don’t be shy to tell people what I’m doing. Observe everything around me where ever I may be and Communicate with people I meet from all walks of “Real life” as well as the life we know as “Virtual!!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Believe in yourself and go for it, never give up no matter how hard and how long it takes Do it from your soul!
Don’t be shy to tell people what I’m doing. Observe everything around me where ever I may be and Communicate with people I meet from all walks of “Real life” as well as the life we know as “Virtual!!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Believe in yourself and go for it, never give up no matter how hard and how long it takes Do it from your soul!
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
To be honest, there are so many great artists in Etsy, “Lauren Alexander” is the first Etsy artist I added on my Favourites seller box. I love the style!!!!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Coming Soon Stay Tuned
EAOC December Bloggy Giveaway Box
We are a talented and gifted group here at EAOC and we want to give someone a chance to find out, so we are putting together a Big Giveaway Surprise Box that can be won. So stay tuned to this blog for the information on how you can win some very beautiful gifts.
Here is our timeline so that you won't miss out:
Nov 17: Official Giveaway is posted on the blog.
Nov 17 - 21: Giveaway Entry Period.
Nov 24: Winner announced
Dec 1: Packaged mailed to confirmed winner.
We are a talented and gifted group here at EAOC and we want to give someone a chance to find out, so we are putting together a Big Giveaway Surprise Box that can be won. So stay tuned to this blog for the information on how you can win some very beautiful gifts.
Here is our timeline so that you won't miss out:
Nov 17: Official Giveaway is posted on the blog.
Nov 17 - 21: Giveaway Entry Period.
Nov 24: Winner announced
Dec 1: Packaged mailed to confirmed winner.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Spotlight On ...
M.Todd of MCT Jeweler!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a husband, a parent of two great children and a man who loves creating beautiful pieces of jewelry from simple bars of precious metal and created a business MCT Jeweler to share that enthusiasm with others.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Currently I work for a 75 person jewelry manufacturer company whom I have worked for over 35 years.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Offer unique handmade jewelry made of 14kt yellow gold, 14kt white gold, and 925 pure silver and genuine stones. I have a collection of jewelry pieces such as cufflinks, rings, bracelets and earrings which can be seen and sold at mct43 [!at] etsy.com or on my official website http://www.mctjeweler.com/.
4. Where do you create?
I create most of my jewelry pieces from my home.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
The catalyst of the jewelry pieces I create is from my childhood experiences in my native island of Trinidad. Secretly I wish I was steel pan players who are amazing musicians who create the style of music known as calypso and soca to create rhythmic and melodic music from old oil drums. Inspired by this instrument I began to generate a series of jewelry pieces to reflect the character of this instrument. Usually when I am creating these jewelry pieces I am listening to the music.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
A family friend, who owned a jewelry store in Port of Spain Trinidad, taught me the jewelry trade. I began learning in 1962 how to assemble, solder, mount diamonds and various gemstones, cutting and molding various metals.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote my product by doing various tradeshows and expositions in the New York are and other states in the U.S.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
It is very hard to run your own business and a small one at that; however this experience has allowed me to keep the faith and push on through in sharing my products with the world. In the end I truly enjoy seeing people enjoy my pieces.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Take baby steps to get your business going. There is a lot to learn in whatever trade you are venturing in but as you progress you will keep learning and growing.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I like to say thank you to everyone who has welcomed me to in the Etsy and the EAOC community. I greatly appreciate the support and interest. However three who I like to acknowledge are Three Muses, Sedruola Maruska and Urban Knit.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a husband, a parent of two great children and a man who loves creating beautiful pieces of jewelry from simple bars of precious metal and created a business MCT Jeweler to share that enthusiasm with others.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Currently I work for a 75 person jewelry manufacturer company whom I have worked for over 35 years.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Offer unique handmade jewelry made of 14kt yellow gold, 14kt white gold, and 925 pure silver and genuine stones. I have a collection of jewelry pieces such as cufflinks, rings, bracelets and earrings which can be seen and sold at mct43 [!at] etsy.com or on my official website http://www.mctjeweler.com/.
4. Where do you create?
I create most of my jewelry pieces from my home.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
The catalyst of the jewelry pieces I create is from my childhood experiences in my native island of Trinidad. Secretly I wish I was steel pan players who are amazing musicians who create the style of music known as calypso and soca to create rhythmic and melodic music from old oil drums. Inspired by this instrument I began to generate a series of jewelry pieces to reflect the character of this instrument. Usually when I am creating these jewelry pieces I am listening to the music.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
A family friend, who owned a jewelry store in Port of Spain Trinidad, taught me the jewelry trade. I began learning in 1962 how to assemble, solder, mount diamonds and various gemstones, cutting and molding various metals.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote my product by doing various tradeshows and expositions in the New York are and other states in the U.S.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
It is very hard to run your own business and a small one at that; however this experience has allowed me to keep the faith and push on through in sharing my products with the world. In the end I truly enjoy seeing people enjoy my pieces.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Take baby steps to get your business going. There is a lot to learn in whatever trade you are venturing in but as you progress you will keep learning and growing.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I like to say thank you to everyone who has welcomed me to in the Etsy and the EAOC community. I greatly appreciate the support and interest. However three who I like to acknowledge are Three Muses, Sedruola Maruska and Urban Knit.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Sedruola of Sedruola Maruska's Yarn Obsession!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a First generation, Haitian-American Black woman who is a daughter, wife, mother and friend (among other things). My "day job" is as an Executive Assistant, however, my work is to be my own boss. My life has been filled with a big extended family that I love dearly and the simple things in life. I love a friend or family gathering. I love reading (when I can). I love traveling and learning about other cultures and I love ever improving on the woman I've become.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a First generation, Haitian-American Black woman who is a daughter, wife, mother and friend (among other things). My "day job" is as an Executive Assistant, however, my work is to be my own boss. My life has been filled with a big extended family that I love dearly and the simple things in life. I love a friend or family gathering. I love reading (when I can). I love traveling and learning about other cultures and I love ever improving on the woman I've become.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Besides working with my yarn and expanding into craft shows, consignments and wholesale, I'm working to raise $40,000 for the St. Boniface Haiti Foundation (http://www.haitihealth.org) in honor of my 40th birthday on Sept. 25th of this year. I have been blessed with so much in my life, that I feel if there is something I can do to share that blessing, I will do my best to do it. Right now, those two things take up most of the "extra", if I can call it that, time I have in my life.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer knit and crochet accessories as well as vintage buttons. I love to play with yarn and having the shop and doing shows gives me a reason and an opportunity to play with yarn as much as I'd like.
4. Where do you create?
Wherever I am. Because my craft is so portable, I only think of what project I want to carry and wherever I have a few moments I pull out my work and create. My dream is to have a home where I have a room or space where all my supplies are gathered and I have a cushy chair to work in. Until then, I do what I do, wherever I can.
5. Where do you get your inspiration?
Fashion. I look around and all types of fashions and I get inspiration all the time. Unfortunately, my mind and hands can't keep up with my inspiration, but steady as we go, I know I'll soon be offering more than accessories in my shop and around the world.
Fashion. I look around and all types of fashions and I get inspiration all the time. Unfortunately, my mind and hands can't keep up with my inspiration, but steady as we go, I know I'll soon be offering more than accessories in my shop and around the world.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I met my husband's grandmother in 2001. She was in her late 70's then and she knits, crochets, paints, quilts, beads and makes jewelry. After meeting her I told my husband (then my boyfriend) that we needed to stop at a craft store so I could buy some yarn, a hook and a book because if his 70+ year old grandma can do all those crafts and she raised 8 children, I can certainly learn one. I learned to crochet that year, then in 2002 I decided to learn to knit. I've been doing both ever since!
7. How do you promote your wares?
I'm still a novice, but I have started taking advantage of gift bags that other artists have advertised and sending business cards, I have a blog yarnobsession-2.blogspot.com, I've recently purchase bookmarks that I've created crochet tassles for and will be giving those away at shows, I'm part of two really great street teams, EAOC and Boston Handmade and I talk about what I do as much as I can. Slowly, I think friends, family and those I meet are getting the message.
I'm still a novice, but I have started taking advantage of gift bags that other artists have advertised and sending business cards, I have a blog yarnobsession-2.blogspot.com, I've recently purchase bookmarks that I've created crochet tassles for and will be giving those away at shows, I'm part of two really great street teams, EAOC and Boston Handmade and I talk about what I do as much as I can. Slowly, I think friends, family and those I meet are getting the message.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
To be true to yourself. As in all things that you do, I've learned that in making an item, it's better to start over as many times as necessary to make it just the way you want it to be, rather than send shabby work. It will always show. Make sure you have integrity when working and giving your word to others and beleive that your work is worth your energy.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
I can only say that information gathering, whether it be reading, talking, or sharing is the best way to gain more resources, information and positive motivation to get through.
I can only say that information gathering, whether it be reading, talking, or sharing is the best way to gain more resources, information and positive motivation to get through.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I have a lot of Etsy artists that I truly admire so it is very difficult to promote only one. For that very reason I work on promoting one Etsy artist a week on my blog.
I have a lot of Etsy artists that I truly admire so it is very difficult to promote only one. For that very reason I work on promoting one Etsy artist a week on my blog.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Tamra of Ag Jewelry Design & Hair Thingys!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am and have always been something of a Renaissance woman. I’m into a little bit of everything. I love science, I love art, and I’ve had an active hand in both. I have a bachelors degree in physics, and I was trained as a classical pianist. But, I also sew, I’m an amateur/hobbyist photographer and an amateur astronomer. It was a huge struggle for me to choose between pursuing a career in science vs. one in the arts. I’ve learned to live with both.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
I work part time for a small performing arts organization—primarily for the purpose of covering my business expenses.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Well, as of yesterday, my Etsy shops are in transition. In my Ag Jewelry Design Etsy shop I offer handcrafted jewelry made primarily from precious metals and gemstones. I don’t have any of my stone pieces up at the moment but I plan to soon.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am and have always been something of a Renaissance woman. I’m into a little bit of everything. I love science, I love art, and I’ve had an active hand in both. I have a bachelors degree in physics, and I was trained as a classical pianist. But, I also sew, I’m an amateur/hobbyist photographer and an amateur astronomer. It was a huge struggle for me to choose between pursuing a career in science vs. one in the arts. I’ve learned to live with both.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
I work part time for a small performing arts organization—primarily for the purpose of covering my business expenses.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Well, as of yesterday, my Etsy shops are in transition. In my Ag Jewelry Design Etsy shop I offer handcrafted jewelry made primarily from precious metals and gemstones. I don’t have any of my stone pieces up at the moment but I plan to soon.
As for my HairThingys Etsy shop, this store will be undergoing a major transformation over the next few weeks. Currently, I offer a variety of handmade ponytail holders and other hair accessories. They were originally intended for people with thicker, locked hair, but I’ve started customizing the width of the elastics, so they’re also good for people whose hair isn’t as thick. I also have several precious metals pieces that I plan to make available for sale.
4. Where do you create?
I have my own studio space. But, I actually create wherever I feel I have to go to plan or execute an idea—dining room table, kitchen bar area, my home office, cafe—just, wherever I need to get a job done.
4. Where do you create?
I have my own studio space. But, I actually create wherever I feel I have to go to plan or execute an idea—dining room table, kitchen bar area, my home office, cafe—just, wherever I need to get a job done.
5. Where do you get your inspiration?
Some things come to me spontaneously, others are sparked as the result of my reading and personal study of art, art history and jewelry history.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I am primarily self-taught. I took a couple of workshops with Revere Academy (East), but outside of that I’ve found, given my academic background, I do better when I teach myself. Having a science background definitely helps with both the science of metalcraft and with the analytical process.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have my jewelry website, http://www.agjewelrydesign.com/; my Etsy sites: http://hairthingys.etsy.com/ and http://agjewelrydesign.etsy.com/; and now my Flickr site http://www.flickr.com/photos/gentrydesigncompany/ I also promote my stuff through my blog http://www.gentrydesignco.typepad.com/, and I’m starting to get into the gallery/boutique scene.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
I’ve learned the hard way that just because you have what you think is a fabulous product doesn’t mean that people will want to buy it. That is to say, I know what I like making, but I’ve found that I must take into consideration the needs and desires of my target audience. Also, find your voice in your area *before* you start selling. I’ve been trying to “find my voice” as I go along and I’ve found it to be quite frustrating-- and perhaps a little confusing for any potential customers because they don’t know what to expect next from me from one batch of product postings to the next (but, that’s just the way I work ;-).
I’ve learned the hard way that just because you have what you think is a fabulous product doesn’t mean that people will want to buy it. That is to say, I know what I like making, but I’ve found that I must take into consideration the needs and desires of my target audience. Also, find your voice in your area *before* you start selling. I’ve been trying to “find my voice” as I go along and I’ve found it to be quite frustrating-- and perhaps a little confusing for any potential customers because they don’t know what to expect next from me from one batch of product postings to the next (but, that’s just the way I work ;-).
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
I’d have to refer people back to the previous question. If I had been aware of those things from the beginning, I think it would have really helped.
I’d have to refer people back to the previous question. If I had been aware of those things from the beginning, I think it would have really helped.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I have way too many favorites! But, ones that come to mind immediately are Paulus Fine Furniture , Metal Bludger, the Builder’s Studio, and Etta Mae.
I have way too many favorites! But, ones that come to mind immediately are Paulus Fine Furniture , Metal Bludger, the Builder’s Studio, and Etta Mae.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Marcus Kwame!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I'm an artist, musician and poet, who was born in Kingston Jamaica and raised in upstate New York. I've been making art since I can remember. My mother was very supportive and instrumental in me becoming an artist.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Right now I'm preparing for the birth of my first child, which I'm really excited about. She's due in August. I have a lot going on right now but that is the big thing!
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer my paintings, drawings and prints in my Etsy Shop.
4. Where do you create?
I mostly create at home, but I've been known to create art anywhere I can get my hands on a piece of paper when inspiration strikes.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I'm an artist, musician and poet, who was born in Kingston Jamaica and raised in upstate New York. I've been making art since I can remember. My mother was very supportive and instrumental in me becoming an artist.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Right now I'm preparing for the birth of my first child, which I'm really excited about. She's due in August. I have a lot going on right now but that is the big thing!
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer my paintings, drawings and prints in my Etsy Shop.
4. Where do you create?
I mostly create at home, but I've been known to create art anywhere I can get my hands on a piece of paper when inspiration strikes.
5. Where do you get your inspiration?
I find inspiration in many places. Music is a big source of inspiration for me. A lot of my paintings are somehow related to music. My wife inspires me. People who have passed through my life inspire me.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I've had some great art teachers but I learned the most by just "doing." I drew all the time when I was growing up. I'm always trying to grow as an artist and do new things.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Through my website http://www.marcuskwame.com/, etsy, word of mouth (handing out a lot of cards!)
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
The most important lesson I've learned since I began selling is that the amount you sell does not determine the true worth of your work. So if things are slow I don't doubt myself or my work.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Like I said, don't let money define your work. If you create what is true to you then in the long run I believe you will be successful.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Lark Calderon Gomez, The Pairabirds, Three Muses Art, Alkemystic88
Monday, July 7, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Rhena of Lars and Addie!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I grew up in Washington DC before moving to Madison, WI to go to college. After living there for six years, I moved around a bit. I've lived in London, a few towns in Thailand, and New York City. I've finally settled in Minneapolis with my husband almost two years ago. We just bought a new house a few minutes away from my sister and her family. It's nice to be near family and settled enough to own a sewing machine or two!
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
When I'm not sewing and knitting, I'm a writer.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
My tagline is "Bags and such. But mostly bags." That pretty much says it all. My bags are fabric with some sort of appliqué on them. My knitted bags are felted and I'm getting into adding needle felting to them. When I say "and such" I mean things for the home like coasters and napkins. I'm going to be expanding this section in the months to come.
4. Where do you create?
I used to work on the dining room table in our tiny apartment. In our new home, my husband and I set up a space in one of the extra rooms for me to work in. Even though we're having work done on our house, my husband made sure that space for me to work was one of the first things we got finished. It's great to have an area separate from where I write so that one creativity doesn't distract me from the other.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get inspiration from other artists like those who create fabrics and yarns. I also spend a lot of time looking at other art, photographs, and the natural world around me. I also get a lot of inspiration from the learning process. I'll often pick up a new pattern or project not because I'm going to sell it, but because I can learn a new technique that I can incorporate into my designs.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I've taken two sewing classes a number of years ago. Otherwise, I'm pretty much self-taught. The internet is such a great resource!
7. How do you promote your wares?
I just opened on Etsy, so I'm just getting starting with the promoting. I maintain a regular blog and try to visit other blogs and to comment there. I also keep photos -- both handmade items and other topics -- on flickr. I carry business cards with me at all times and send a few of them with each order. I definitely have to do some more, but in the meantime, fortunately, my friends, family, and customers are great champions of my work!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Promoting on and off Etsy is super important, but the bottom line is that if I'm not creating and if I'm not creating items that I love and am happy with, it's all for naught. I have to make sure that I always leave time to actually make things and not just promote. I have to create items, not only to keep my stock up but also to keep my sanity.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
For an on-line store, photography is the single most important element of your shop (aside from having a great product). Your customer can't touch and hold your product, so you have to compensate for that by taking great pictures. Don't use a flash, use natural light, use all five photos spots, and edit your photos before you post.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Luna Feliz is a fellow Minneapolitan who sells really cute Chinese take-out boxes. Sinister Bags are also here in Minneapolis. She makes great vinyl bags (a material I would never have the guts to work with!). My Handbound Books makes great journals, which as someone who can't work with paper at all and who is, ironically, a writer, I respect a great deal. Orange Moon Toys makes these great shadow puppet toys, which I will definitely buy if we have kids one day... or maybe even if we don't have kids! I have to give a shout out to Studio Wonjun. She's from Thailand, living in NYC and has one bag that's been on the front page about a zillion times -- but also has a bunch of other crocheted items that are really cute:
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I grew up in Washington DC before moving to Madison, WI to go to college. After living there for six years, I moved around a bit. I've lived in London, a few towns in Thailand, and New York City. I've finally settled in Minneapolis with my husband almost two years ago. We just bought a new house a few minutes away from my sister and her family. It's nice to be near family and settled enough to own a sewing machine or two!
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
When I'm not sewing and knitting, I'm a writer.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
My tagline is "Bags and such. But mostly bags." That pretty much says it all. My bags are fabric with some sort of appliqué on them. My knitted bags are felted and I'm getting into adding needle felting to them. When I say "and such" I mean things for the home like coasters and napkins. I'm going to be expanding this section in the months to come.
4. Where do you create?
I used to work on the dining room table in our tiny apartment. In our new home, my husband and I set up a space in one of the extra rooms for me to work in. Even though we're having work done on our house, my husband made sure that space for me to work was one of the first things we got finished. It's great to have an area separate from where I write so that one creativity doesn't distract me from the other.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get inspiration from other artists like those who create fabrics and yarns. I also spend a lot of time looking at other art, photographs, and the natural world around me. I also get a lot of inspiration from the learning process. I'll often pick up a new pattern or project not because I'm going to sell it, but because I can learn a new technique that I can incorporate into my designs.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I've taken two sewing classes a number of years ago. Otherwise, I'm pretty much self-taught. The internet is such a great resource!
7. How do you promote your wares?
I just opened on Etsy, so I'm just getting starting with the promoting. I maintain a regular blog and try to visit other blogs and to comment there. I also keep photos -- both handmade items and other topics -- on flickr. I carry business cards with me at all times and send a few of them with each order. I definitely have to do some more, but in the meantime, fortunately, my friends, family, and customers are great champions of my work!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Promoting on and off Etsy is super important, but the bottom line is that if I'm not creating and if I'm not creating items that I love and am happy with, it's all for naught. I have to make sure that I always leave time to actually make things and not just promote. I have to create items, not only to keep my stock up but also to keep my sanity.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
For an on-line store, photography is the single most important element of your shop (aside from having a great product). Your customer can't touch and hold your product, so you have to compensate for that by taking great pictures. Don't use a flash, use natural light, use all five photos spots, and edit your photos before you post.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Luna Feliz is a fellow Minneapolitan who sells really cute Chinese take-out boxes. Sinister Bags are also here in Minneapolis. She makes great vinyl bags (a material I would never have the guts to work with!). My Handbound Books makes great journals, which as someone who can't work with paper at all and who is, ironically, a writer, I respect a great deal. Orange Moon Toys makes these great shadow puppet toys, which I will definitely buy if we have kids one day... or maybe even if we don't have kids! I have to give a shout out to Studio Wonjun. She's from Thailand, living in NYC and has one bag that's been on the front page about a zillion times -- but also has a bunch of other crocheted items that are really cute:
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Maia of Astrida Naturals and Media Move!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Maia of Astrida Naturals and Media Move. I'm 24, and currently live in the suburbs just outside of Chicago. I went to undergrad for New Media Design but before I finished, I knew I wanted to work for myself. After I earned my BFA, I went back to school and earned an MBA so that I could start my own business. During this time I was also working with my father, selling African American books online. Now we have a store, and I am fully pursuing my dreams of self employment by selling shea butter products and providing graphic, web, and flash design services.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I own a bookstore! In November, 2007 I opened a bookstore with my father, we actually earned out MBAs at the same time and used our store, Azizi Books, as our final business plan project. I'm here at Azizi Books all the time, even as I write this. We also continue to sell books online at http://www.blackbooksdirect.com/.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
At AstridaNaturals.etsy.com, I sell unrefined shea butter products and African black soap. MediaMove.etsy.com is my new shop. I currently offer premade banners and custom banner designs, but I would ultimately like to offer dynamic advertising and marketing solutions, such as video and interactive flash movies and banners and websites, for other merchants.
4. Where do you create?
I've completely taken over the kitchen for my shea butter creations!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from my family when creating new products. My shea butter business originally started because I wanted to create natural skin care solutions for myself and my family. They pretty much tell me what I need to create next.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I did a lot of research before I started the shea butter business. Owning a bookstore gives me lots of access to great books, so I read as much as I could about skin care and all the ingredients that I could to use to create a line. I also did a lot of experimenting on my family and friends before I started selling.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have a blog, astridanaturals.blogspot.com where I talk about my products and share my knowledge about skin care. I also promote a lot on Etsy. You can find me on the forums almost daily. Even if I only have time for one post, I think that it has helped. I don't really promote my design services too much. Word of mouth usually gives me enough design work and new media jobs to keep busy.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
I've learned not to get too distracted by what other sellers are doing in my category. I used to compare, and it was driving me nuts, so I don't anymore. I've also learned that great communications leads to happy customers.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Do your research! Try not to get distracted but what others are doing in your category. Stay true to your goals and remember why you started selling in the first place. If getting hundreds of sales is your goal then you have got to promote like a street fighter. Also take great pictures.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Why, yes, I do have some favorites! I love, the Adinkra pendents from CreativeArtandSoul.etsy.com, the journals from Kreativlink.etsy.com, needle tatting from TotusMel.etsy.com, and soaps from dennisanderson.etsy.com.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Maia of Astrida Naturals and Media Move. I'm 24, and currently live in the suburbs just outside of Chicago. I went to undergrad for New Media Design but before I finished, I knew I wanted to work for myself. After I earned my BFA, I went back to school and earned an MBA so that I could start my own business. During this time I was also working with my father, selling African American books online. Now we have a store, and I am fully pursuing my dreams of self employment by selling shea butter products and providing graphic, web, and flash design services.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I own a bookstore! In November, 2007 I opened a bookstore with my father, we actually earned out MBAs at the same time and used our store, Azizi Books, as our final business plan project. I'm here at Azizi Books all the time, even as I write this. We also continue to sell books online at http://www.blackbooksdirect.com/.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
At AstridaNaturals.etsy.com, I sell unrefined shea butter products and African black soap. MediaMove.etsy.com is my new shop. I currently offer premade banners and custom banner designs, but I would ultimately like to offer dynamic advertising and marketing solutions, such as video and interactive flash movies and banners and websites, for other merchants.
4. Where do you create?
I've completely taken over the kitchen for my shea butter creations!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from my family when creating new products. My shea butter business originally started because I wanted to create natural skin care solutions for myself and my family. They pretty much tell me what I need to create next.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I did a lot of research before I started the shea butter business. Owning a bookstore gives me lots of access to great books, so I read as much as I could about skin care and all the ingredients that I could to use to create a line. I also did a lot of experimenting on my family and friends before I started selling.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have a blog, astridanaturals.blogspot.com where I talk about my products and share my knowledge about skin care. I also promote a lot on Etsy. You can find me on the forums almost daily. Even if I only have time for one post, I think that it has helped. I don't really promote my design services too much. Word of mouth usually gives me enough design work and new media jobs to keep busy.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
I've learned not to get too distracted by what other sellers are doing in my category. I used to compare, and it was driving me nuts, so I don't anymore. I've also learned that great communications leads to happy customers.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Do your research! Try not to get distracted but what others are doing in your category. Stay true to your goals and remember why you started selling in the first place. If getting hundreds of sales is your goal then you have got to promote like a street fighter. Also take great pictures.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Why, yes, I do have some favorites! I love, the Adinkra pendents from CreativeArtandSoul.etsy.com, the journals from Kreativlink.etsy.com, needle tatting from TotusMel.etsy.com, and soaps from dennisanderson.etsy.com.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Stephanie Vance-Patience of Stephani Vance and My Philosopea!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a woman who has had my hand in art — in one form or another — my entire life. Both of my parents appreciate and created art, and still, to this day, encourage me to stretch beyond my self-imposed limits and create what I want. I am very proud of my 3 children: one is returning to school to be an RN, one is planning to finish college in graphic design, and one is studying 2D animation. I also have 2 more children. I recently married a wonderful, supportive man who is 100% in my corner. Our blended family is a major part of my life.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I am in my 19th year as a full-time graphic designer, and intend to "retire" within the next 2 years to be a full-time creative person! I read a lot, and, besides my love for and of God, am growing spiritually. I desire to make my world a place filled with love, peace, joy, and gratitude.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Etsy offers me a place to showcase and [hopefully] sell my fine art and miscellaneous creations. I sell signed, numbered prints, some originals, ACEOs, and now, beautiful handmade journals (completely handmade!) I also love working with polymer clay, and have created beads and a few dolls! I am not sure where the clay-thing is going, but I am open to what the universe has in store!
4. Where do you create?
I turned my son's bedroom into my studio during his second year of college! He's moving to the West Coast to finish earning his Bachelors degree. His old room/my new studio is a very calm sanctuary for me.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from looking at others' work (paintings, sculptures, etc.) and a very private place within my soul.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I was raised in a home that encouraged creativity. I studied all forms of art at Moore College of Art in Philadelphia, PA throughout middle and high school (every weekend, and 5 days a week during my summer vacations... back in the ’70s!) Even though I chose a different route as an adult, I always appreciated art and never stopped creating. I find it easy to read a book or watch a DVD and learn how to, for example, make journals. Then I add my personal flavor to the technical part and am creating beautiful items!
7. How do you promote your wares?
Although I am in advertising 40-hours each week, I don't spend much time promoting my own art (I need a personal assistant, or two of me!) Most people who know me appreciate and buy my art. I have participated in a few art and/or craft shows over the past year. This is only my 3rd year of focusing on art as my full-time ambition, so this is the year that I intend to step out and participate more, hand out more marketing materials, and get more involved in showing my work.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
I've learned that there is a difference in the quality of my art when I base my work on selling it as opposed to basing it on the process of creating. I absolutely LOVE the process, and find joy in my finished pieces. And IF I sell it, that's good, too!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Focus on your vision, and never base your creations on what other people are doing. You'll be a happier, satisfied artisan!
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Wow... I have a few hundred favorite sellers on Esty right now! I always spend at least 3 to 4 hours each week looking at and appreciating others' work! Let's see (in no particular order)... birdandflower, Kreativlink, AgJewelry, polpetteclay, belleandboo, TheIntuitiveGarden, kerijoy, fancykstudio, lakeillustration, LouAnnsdesigns, marciapalmer, sweetsassyboutique, lyoungstudio, to name a few!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.I am a woman who has had my hand in art — in one form or another — my entire life. Both of my parents appreciate and created art, and still, to this day, encourage me to stretch beyond my self-imposed limits and create what I want. I am very proud of my 3 children: one is returning to school to be an RN, one is planning to finish college in graphic design, and one is studying 2D animation. I also have 2 more children. I recently married a wonderful, supportive man who is 100% in my corner. Our blended family is a major part of my life.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I am in my 19th year as a full-time graphic designer, and intend to "retire" within the next 2 years to be a full-time creative person! I read a lot, and, besides my love for and of God, am growing spiritually. I desire to make my world a place filled with love, peace, joy, and gratitude.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Etsy offers me a place to showcase and [hopefully] sell my fine art and miscellaneous creations. I sell signed, numbered prints, some originals, ACEOs, and now, beautiful handmade journals (completely handmade!) I also love working with polymer clay, and have created beads and a few dolls! I am not sure where the clay-thing is going, but I am open to what the universe has in store!
4. Where do you create?
I turned my son's bedroom into my studio during his second year of college! He's moving to the West Coast to finish earning his Bachelors degree. His old room/my new studio is a very calm sanctuary for me.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from looking at others' work (paintings, sculptures, etc.) and a very private place within my soul.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I was raised in a home that encouraged creativity. I studied all forms of art at Moore College of Art in Philadelphia, PA throughout middle and high school (every weekend, and 5 days a week during my summer vacations... back in the ’70s!) Even though I chose a different route as an adult, I always appreciated art and never stopped creating. I find it easy to read a book or watch a DVD and learn how to, for example, make journals. Then I add my personal flavor to the technical part and am creating beautiful items!
7. How do you promote your wares?
Although I am in advertising 40-hours each week, I don't spend much time promoting my own art (I need a personal assistant, or two of me!) Most people who know me appreciate and buy my art. I have participated in a few art and/or craft shows over the past year. This is only my 3rd year of focusing on art as my full-time ambition, so this is the year that I intend to step out and participate more, hand out more marketing materials, and get more involved in showing my work.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
I've learned that there is a difference in the quality of my art when I base my work on selling it as opposed to basing it on the process of creating. I absolutely LOVE the process, and find joy in my finished pieces. And IF I sell it, that's good, too!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Focus on your vision, and never base your creations on what other people are doing. You'll be a happier, satisfied artisan!
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Wow... I have a few hundred favorite sellers on Esty right now! I always spend at least 3 to 4 hours each week looking at and appreciating others' work! Let's see (in no particular order)... birdandflower, Kreativlink, AgJewelry, polpetteclay, belleandboo, TheIntuitiveGarden, kerijoy, fancykstudio, lakeillustration, LouAnnsdesigns, marciapalmer, sweetsassyboutique, lyoungstudio, to name a few!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Spotlight On ...
Naturalezanica!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Marlon Obando Solano, of Naturaleza al Descubierto natu
ral jewelry. I grew up in a small rural community in Nicaragua. During most of my childhood a civil war was raging. Alongside my parents, I learned to farm and explore the countryside, where my attention to nature’s details developed. I have been an environmental activist for many years. I studied archaeology, learning more about the traditional uses of materials for tools and adornment. My art brings together these interests. I started making and selling jewelry when I was living in Managua, Nicaragua. I gave my work to my friends and started selling through fair trade vendors to get a fair and sustainable price for my work. I moved to Kentucky with my wife (who I met in Nicaragua) and we’ve been working together to sell my jewelry at art fairs and on Etsy.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I work as an archaeologist “shovel bum” doing digs throughout the Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio area. I am a musician, I play the guitar and write songs with my group Appalatin. I also enjoy gardening and cooking.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Jewelry handmade with sustainable organic materials I collect
myself in Nicaragua and Kentucky. Every piece is one-of-a-kind and made to honor the earth. I love to do custom orders and designs.
4. Where do you create?
I have a wonderful spot in my garage, just feet away from the vegetable garden in the Germantown Neighborhood in Louisville, Kentucky.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature, but I’m also drawn to symbology and archaeology. I like simple lines, balance, and form.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I’ve never taken a single art class. I love experimenting with different materials and techniques. Growing up in the countryside taught me ingenuity – to invent my own tools and use unique materials. Every day I try something new.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Until recently, most of my sales have been through local juried art fairs. Etsy has been a wonderful way to reach more people who appreciate sustainable organic art. We promote via Etsy, Flickr www.flickr.com/naturalezanica and we have a website: http://www.martierrasol.com/.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Keep evolving and stay excited!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Good pictures and networking make a world of difference.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
So many great sellers – Etsy is a wonderful community!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Marlon Obando Solano, of Naturaleza al Descubierto natu
ral jewelry. I grew up in a small rural community in Nicaragua. During most of my childhood a civil war was raging. Alongside my parents, I learned to farm and explore the countryside, where my attention to nature’s details developed. I have been an environmental activist for many years. I studied archaeology, learning more about the traditional uses of materials for tools and adornment. My art brings together these interests. I started making and selling jewelry when I was living in Managua, Nicaragua. I gave my work to my friends and started selling through fair trade vendors to get a fair and sustainable price for my work. I moved to Kentucky with my wife (who I met in Nicaragua) and we’ve been working together to sell my jewelry at art fairs and on Etsy.2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I work as an archaeologist “shovel bum” doing digs throughout the Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio area. I am a musician, I play the guitar and write songs with my group Appalatin. I also enjoy gardening and cooking.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
Jewelry handmade with sustainable organic materials I collect
myself in Nicaragua and Kentucky. Every piece is one-of-a-kind and made to honor the earth. I love to do custom orders and designs.4. Where do you create?
I have a wonderful spot in my garage, just feet away from the vegetable garden in the Germantown Neighborhood in Louisville, Kentucky.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature, but I’m also drawn to symbology and archaeology. I like simple lines, balance, and form.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I’ve never taken a single art class. I love experimenting with different materials and techniques. Growing up in the countryside taught me ingenuity – to invent my own tools and use unique materials. Every day I try something new.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Until recently, most of my sales have been through local juried art fairs. Etsy has been a wonderful way to reach more people who appreciate sustainable organic art. We promote via Etsy, Flickr www.flickr.com/naturalezanica and we have a website: http://www.martierrasol.com/.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Keep evolving and stay excited!
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Good pictures and networking make a world of difference.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
So many great sellers – Etsy is a wonderful community!
- If it wasn’t for our friend Wendy we might not have found Etsy:http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=100813
- To narrow it down the Snot Pot from LaPella Pottery changed my life: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=49275
- And it was great to meet Gaia Creations at the LEAF Festival in North Carolina:http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5381559
Friday, February 1, 2008
Etsy Artists of Color - Hot Shops for Fine Arts and Crafts
Welcome! You've landed on the new blog for Etsy Artists of Color, a global collective of artists and artisans who sell on Etsy.com -- the leading online marketplace for buying unique arts and crafts.
Etsy Artists of Color is a dynamic organization of emerging creative talent from the U.S. and around the world. Our members include fine artists, jewelry and accessories designers, and photographers. Our works span the gamut, from one-of-a-kind items to limited edition collectibles.
We hope you'll bookmark this site and return often, to discover what's exciting and new! On an ongoing basis, we'll showcase new merchandise, announce discounted sales promotions, let you know of local activities such as festivals and crafts fairs a member will be participating in, and celebrate the diverse cultures of our colorful group.
EAOC's founding blog members and their Etsy shops are:
Dawn of Lark Studio
Textiles, Jewelry and Crafts
http://www.larkstudio.etsy.com/
Sha Brown of Alkemystic88
One-of-a-Kind Wearable Art & Wall Art
http://www.alkemystic88.etsy.com/
La-Mar of Handcrafted by LaMar
Handcrafted greeting cards
http://www.lamarlynch.etsy.com/
Blog: http://www.craftedgreetings.blogspot.com
Inga Leonce of Inga's Gems
Elegant Handmade Gemstone Jewelry
http://www.ingasgems.etsy.com/
Jamila of Jamilary
Trendy, Classy, Custom-made Handmade Jewelry
http://www.jamilary.etsy.com/
Lee of Abelee's Handcrafted
Handcrafted Jewelry
http://abeleeshandcrafted.etsy.com/
Viqi French of Urban Islands
Fine Art Photography
http://urbanislands.etsy.com/
April Hogue of Mosaics By AH, Nature Friendly Diva
Mosaic Art and Home Decor
http://mosaicsbyah.etsy.com/ and http://naturefriendlydiva.etsy.com/
Crystal Harding of Ayana Creations
Beaded Flowers, Jewelry and Gifts
http://www.ayanacreations.etsy.com/
Eleanor of Precious Treasures
Handcrafted Ceramics and Gifts
http://www.precioust.etsy.com/
Dedra "Dee" Harvin of The Ivory Magnolia
Handmade Bath & Body Goodies
http://www.theivorymagnolia.etsy.com/
Nicole Lee of Nicole Lee Designs
Fashion & Accessories
http://soleilrouge.etsy.com/
Terri Collins of Callidora
http://callidora.etsy.com/
Blog:http://www.tlcsays.blogspot.com/
Flickr: http://flickr.com/photos/callidora
Renaissance Austin of Raghouse International
Accessories, Apparel, Makeup, Photography
http://www.raghousenternational.etsy.com
Jennifer of Gingerlime
http://www.gingerlime.etsy.com/
Dolapo James of Urbanknit
Fun and Funky Handmade Bags and Scarves (knits)
http://www.urbanknit.etsy.com/
Blog: http://www.urbanknit.blogspot.com
Romona Richardson of Bklyn MOMOs
Crochet Clothing and Accessories
http://www.bklynmomos.etsy.com/
Nina Jackson of Beads In The Belfry
Go batty for Baubles made of metal! Inspired by Nature.
http://www.beadsinthebelfry.etsy.com/
Stormee of Stormeejean
http://www.stormeejean.etsy.com
Sharon of Feille
Embellished Crochet Designs.
http://www.feille.etsy.com
NYNY of OrigamiCentral
Origami Creations and more.
http://www.origamicentral.etsy.com/
Tyra Davis of Tyramade Jewelry
Handmade Jewelry.
http://www.tyramade.etsy.com/
Etsy Artists of Color is a dynamic organization of emerging creative talent from the U.S. and around the world. Our members include fine artists, jewelry and accessories designers, and photographers. Our works span the gamut, from one-of-a-kind items to limited edition collectibles.
We hope you'll bookmark this site and return often, to discover what's exciting and new! On an ongoing basis, we'll showcase new merchandise, announce discounted sales promotions, let you know of local activities such as festivals and crafts fairs a member will be participating in, and celebrate the diverse cultures of our colorful group.
EAOC's founding blog members and their Etsy shops are:
Dawn of Lark Studio
Textiles, Jewelry and Crafts
http://www.larkstudio.etsy.com/
Sha Brown of Alkemystic88
One-of-a-Kind Wearable Art & Wall Art
http://www.alkemystic88.etsy.com/
La-Mar of Handcrafted by LaMar
Handcrafted greeting cards
http://www.lamarlynch.etsy.com/
Blog: http://www.craftedgreetings.blogspot.com
Inga Leonce of Inga's Gems
Elegant Handmade Gemstone Jewelry
http://www.ingasgems.etsy.com/
Jamila of Jamilary
Trendy, Classy, Custom-made Handmade Jewelry
http://www.jamilary.etsy.com/
Lee of Abelee's Handcrafted
Handcrafted Jewelry
http://abeleeshandcrafted.etsy.com/
Viqi French of Urban Islands
Fine Art Photography
http://urbanislands.etsy.com/
April Hogue of Mosaics By AH, Nature Friendly Diva
Mosaic Art and Home Decor
http://mosaicsbyah.etsy.com/ and http://naturefriendlydiva.etsy.com/
Crystal Harding of Ayana Creations
Beaded Flowers, Jewelry and Gifts
http://www.ayanacreations.etsy.com/
Eleanor of Precious Treasures
Handcrafted Ceramics and Gifts
http://www.precioust.etsy.com/
Dedra "Dee" Harvin of The Ivory Magnolia
Handmade Bath & Body Goodies
http://www.theivorymagnolia.etsy.com/
Nicole Lee of Nicole Lee Designs
Fashion & Accessories
http://soleilrouge.etsy.com/
Terri Collins of Callidora
http://callidora.etsy.com/
Blog:http://www.tlcsays.blogspot.com/
Flickr: http://flickr.com/photos/callidora
Renaissance Austin of Raghouse International
Accessories, Apparel, Makeup, Photography
http://www.raghousenternational.etsy.com
Jennifer of Gingerlime
http://www.gingerlime.etsy.com/
Dolapo James of Urbanknit
Fun and Funky Handmade Bags and Scarves (knits)
http://www.urbanknit.etsy.com/
Blog: http://www.urbanknit.blogspot.com
Romona Richardson of Bklyn MOMOs
Crochet Clothing and Accessories
http://www.bklynmomos.etsy.com/
Nina Jackson of Beads In The Belfry
Go batty for Baubles made of metal! Inspired by Nature.
http://www.beadsinthebelfry.etsy.com/
Stormee of Stormeejean
http://www.stormeejean.etsy.com
Sharon of Feille
Embellished Crochet Designs.
http://www.feille.etsy.com
NYNY of OrigamiCentral
Origami Creations and more.
http://www.origamicentral.etsy.com/
Tyra Davis of Tyramade Jewelry
Handmade Jewelry.
http://www.tyramade.etsy.com/
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