EAOC's Monday Spotlight: Kathy Rosemon

Meet EAOC Artist:  Kathy Rosemon.

Etsy Shop:  
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ekletikdesignz

Tell us about yourself.
I am the owner of Ekletik Designz Boutique online women's apparel and accessories boutique.  I enjoy creating statement pieces for the Bold Fashionista!  I am also working on a handbag line that will feature oversized clutches with cool hardware and mixed fabrics, K.Lynns Handbags. 

What are you currently doing besides your craft?
Fashion and the Beauty Industry has always been my passion, as well as helping others.  Besides my online boutique I have worked in social services all of my career as a Case Manager and Youth Counselor.

What is the address for your Etsy shop and what does your shop offer?
My Etsy shop,  www.etsy.com/shop/ekletikdesignz,  features cuffs, bangles earrings and sets.

Where do you find your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from strong women that I know that take chances and make sacrifices everyday.  I create at home in my studio space and the most important lesson I've learned on my journey, is to pace yourself.  Don't give up; keep trying until you get the results you are desiring!

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
My favorite Etsy shops on are DemestiksNewYork, Myjewelryfindings, and Vozcollective and off Etsy is Melodrama Boutique.

What are your other sites?
I also have a women's apparel online shop, www.ekletikdesignzboutique.bigcartel.com.
Here are some of Kathy's other items found in her Etsy shop:

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Lark Calderon-Gomez

Etsy Shop:  www.etsy.com/shop/larkcalderongomez

Tell us about yourself?
I was born and raised at the beach in California, where I fell in love with oil painting at the age of seven. My Mom is an artist and felt it was important to have a houseful of art supplies for all of us to explore, and I would happily get lost in them for hours... I was born to a Guatemalan Father and American Mother. I was raised by my Mother and knew nothing of my Father's heritage, so a few years ago I went to him to find out more.

The first thing I noticed was that it wasn’t easy for him. He started telling me his melancholy stories of being a boy walking through the streets of the city in Guatemala. I began imagining him there as he spoke. The year was 1941 and WWII was stretching across the world. He told me he was four years old when his Mother left. Argentine Tango poured from the radio’s...he painted vivid images for me. He told me how he was filled with sadness wondering where she had gone, and that he painfully waited 10 years for her to get them.. Then I understood why he never talked about it.

Something caused my grandmother to leave her family. I can't imagine what she could have gone through emigration to the US back in the 1940s, when she was a young woman. I began mixing the little history I knew of her with some Latin American history creating somewhat fictional stories to satisfy my curiosity. Then, I wanted to paint her.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?
www.etsy.com/shop/larkcalderongomez

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
Signed & numbered limited edition giclee prints on archival quality paper, approx 11x17”

Where do you create?
In my home studio. I love my little sanctuary of a home! Painting is very therapeutic and I love having access anytime I need to go there.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I love to go to the museum exhibitions and galleries. Once in a while, I will come across an artist that just effects me so deeply. I feel ashamed of myself for not trying harder. They motivate me to want to be a better painter.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
The hard lesson of letting a beloved piece go. I am an emotional painter, and get attached to my work. Sometimes as soon as a painting is done, it’s off to a show and sometimes it is sold…and sometimes it breaks my heart. So, now I try to be more prepared for this.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
To always try and create the best work possible. To always be developing Your Eye, and guard it. And have fun!

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
I am so happy you asked!! I have a few:
ON ETSY:
-The incredibly gifted Aku, (and proud member of EAOC) with Aku's Ear Ornaments http://www.etsy.com/shop/Kezzmit and http://www.akusearornaments.blogspot.com/
-The inspiring painter/teacher/musician, Marcus Kwame, (and proud member of EAOC): www.etsy.com/people/Marcuskwame  
-The talented Lynda Zamora with Armando Javier Design… Open to trade for brass, silver or copper jewelry http://www.etsy.com/people/ArmandoJavierDesign
- The gifted Adina, from the jewelry to the painted feathers and intricate Dream Catchers: http://www.etsy.com/people/Leelinau
-Talented Jennie at: http://www.etsy.com/people/SewHappybyJennie
- Inspiring Diana Martin, see her paintings at: www.etsy.com/shop/DianaMartinStudio
- The Incredible Lori Nicholes at: www.etsy.com/shop/lorinichols
- The talented Anna Lela at: www.etsy.com/people/AnnaLela
- Visit gifted Kylie, at her incredible shop: www.etsy.com/shop/earlybirdcreations
- The super talented Renaissance woman, Miss K Art: www.etsy.com/shop/MissKArt
- Lovely bath & body items by Lisa at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlossomingTree
- The talented clothing designer, Alix of Tree House 28: www.etsy.com/shop/treehouse28
AND OFF ETSY:
- Visit super talented artist friend, Terri Woodward, at her Website: http://www.terriwoodward.info/
- Visit my super talented teacher & friend, Phyllis Shafer, at her website at: http://www.phyllisshafer.com/
- Visit my Sister, Maria Calderon’s Music Website at www.miacalderon.com

What are your other sites?
I have my fine art website at: http://www.calderon-gomez.com/
And please check out my blog at: http://www.calderon-gomez.blogspot.com/

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Tasha B.

Etsy Shop:   http://www.etsy.com/shop/mstashab

Tell us about yourself.
My name is Tasha and I am the owner/operator of Belle Butters, LLC, a company geared towards the preservation of your sexy. J

What are you currently doing besides your craft?
I am a Professional Rater (fancy word for interviewer) for a research study at a large university. I also enjoy photography, collecting music, traveling, blogging (I have 4 blogs lol), reading and much more.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mstashab

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
I specialize in handmade premium whipped butters for your body and your hair. Majority of the butters for hair are for those with kinky/curly hair types. For finer hair types, I would suggest using my butters as a pomade. The butters are for all skin types, especially if you have psoriasis, eczema or severely dry skin.

Where do you create?
I create mainly in my kitchen where all the whipping goes down or in my bedroom window where I take majority of my product photos.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration anywhere. I can be inspired at a bar, outside at the park, by what’s on the television, by anything. If it’s interesting or something that gets me thinking, I can create something from it. Most of my inspiration however, comes from food, which is obvious by some of my “food-themed” butters.

How did you get started in your line of business?
I am a proud natural who loves to wear an afro most of the time. I have type 4 hair that is very thick and coarse and loves to stay dry unless I moisturize it. I received many compliments on how soft my hair is and what I use on it. After going down the long list to friends and others, I realized that sharing my recipe was more exhausting to them, so I decided to try and make it for them instead.  I challenged myself with the idea of starting a business and I gave myself 30 days and I had my Etsy shop up and running in 28 days.

How do you promote your business?
I take advantage of networking via Twitter, Facebook, Blogger, different natural hair websites and groups, and by word of mouth.

What is one of your most important lessons you’ve learned since starting your business?
You cannot please everyone. I am a perfectionist and I hold very high standards for my business, however in the beginning I found myself getting disappointed if a customer was unhappy with my product and I have to remind myself that I can’t expect a customer to be completely satisfied with everything I make.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Take advantage of the networking opportunities of the internet. There are so many avenues of getting your business out there and internet marketing is at the top of the list.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
I’m a tech-head, so I do a lot of shopping with Apple (I’m a sucker for cool gadgets). I buy a lot of my jewelry from Camille Peace (peaceimages.etsy.com), Sephora (because I’m obsessed with nail polish and DiorShow mascara), Lush Cosmetics and Four Corner Store (an online shop dedicated to film cameras).

What are your other sites?
The Belle Butters blog is at http://www.bellebutters.com/
You can find me on Facebook at http://facebook.com/iheartobama and the Belle Butters fanpage at http://facebook.com/bellebutters
Follow me on Twitter @misstashab

If you live in St. Louis, you can find Belle Butters products at GYA located at 2700 Locust St, 63103

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Julia Akpan

Extra Long Crocheted Spiral Earrings

Etsy Shop:  http://www.simpletruths.etsy.com

Tell us about yourself.  

My name is Julia.  I am a wife to a wonderful man, mother to an amazing toddler.  My husband and I were both born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, where we still live. Our son is so lucky to be growing up only 20min away from both sets of grandparents.  We just bought our first home with a huge yard and I’m starting to prepare a large area for our garden. I’m very much looking forward to cooking with foods that come from our own land. I also love exercising, traveling, and learning about other cultures.

My mom taught me to crochet when I was about 9 as a way to keep me busy on a trip to Chicago to visit family.  I also sew and in general love ‘craft time’ but, as a woman with very little down time, I love to portability of crochet and knitting; so much of my work is done in carpool or late at night.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft? 

I work full time as a development editor on health and human performance text books. 

What is the address for your Etsy shop? 

http://www.simpletruths.etsy.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop? 

Simpletruths is all about knit and crochet accessories for yourself and your home. Everything is designed to simple, beautiful, elegant and fun.

Where do you create? 

Everywhere! Mostly in carpool and late at night on the couch.

Where do you find your inspiration? 

I love looking through vintage photos but I also find a lot of inspiration from different cultures’ current fashions - Japanese craft books are beautiful.  I also get a lot of inspiration from nature.

How did you get started in your line of business? 

Initially I was crocheting more things than I could possible wear myself or even give as gifts. I love the act of creating and my husband is actually the one who urged me to look into starting a business.

How do you promote your business? 

Mostly by word-of-mouth and wearing my designs.  I also have a blog, and accounts on Twitter, Flickr.  My mom and sister are truly my biggest promoters.  My mom walks around with my business cards in her purse at all times!  I’m hoping to do a craft show this year.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business? 

There’s so much still for me to learn but organization is key!

What advice would you give someone just starting out? 

Since I am just starting out I’m constantly looking for advice.  But I’m making sure to maintain  the Three P's: Patience, Perseverance, and Professionalism.  Also – take good pictures!

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy? 

http://emersonmade.myshopify.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/pomadour24
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mamaiwawaki

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?

http://www.simpletruths.typepad.com
http://twitter.com/mysimpletruths

EAOC's Friday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Robyn

Afternoon Tea Necklace

Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/SydneyAustinDesigns

Tell us about yourself.  

My name is Robyn. I am a wife and mother to 2 kids. We live in Greensboro, NC, but we are from Baltimore, MD. We have a sweet pit bull terrier named Bella.  My business is Sydney Austin Designs.  Sydney Austin are the middle names of my kids. I love all forms of art and learning about other cultures.  I love shoes. I love to laugh. I love Reeses peanut butter cups! I wish I knew how to play tennis.  I wish I knew how to sew.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft? 

I am a member of the Junior League of Greensboro, Las Amigas, Inc., and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I also work part time for Wake Forest University.

What is the address for your Etsy shop? 

www.sydneyaustindesigns.etsy.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop? 

Hip handcrafted jewelry: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings

Where do you create? 

In a corner, on a little black table.

Where do you find your inspiration? 

Reading lots of magazines, nature, and watching old movies.

How did you get started in your line of business? 

My brother taught me how to make earrings years ago and we sold them, but we stopped (can't remember why). Years later, I took a jewelry making class in Baltimore, MD and I was hooked. 

How do you promote your business? 

Word of mouth, wearing my designs, Twitter, Facebook, blogging, and vending at various events.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business? 

Keep good accurate records. When tax time comes, it will be a piece of cake. (I'm still learning this lesson)

What advice would you give someone just starting out? 

Three P's: Patience, Perseverance, and Professionalism

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy? 

There are too many etsy shops to name!  So much talent all in one place!  However, I get a lot of lampwork beads from MelissaBeads. Off Etsy, I love shopbop.com.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?

http://sydneyaustindesigns.blogspot.com

http://facebook.com/SydneyAustinDesigns

http://twitter.com/sydneyaustin

 

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Azmera

Think of a summer, spring breeze, swirling in the openness of the green Land(or farm), spinning around feeling like ur floating in the wind. This is how I wanted to feel when I made this dress. I wanted to feel like a butter fly Princess, I wanted to feel sexy but covered. I wanted to create something that could fit a petite princess or a full figure princess and in between...

Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/azmera

Tell us about yourself?
I love to be inspired and then spread that inspiration on to others. My godmother taught me how to sew when I was 11.  I didn't do much with it until I was inspired about 3 years ago and now here I am.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft? 
Well until recently I was a semi-anti-social, nature loving, hiking mountains, martial arts practicing harvest girl. Yet recently I am now a healing sewing bookbinding taking care of newborn life harvest Mama :-D.

What is the addresses of your Etsy shop?
 Harvest Girl Experience ~ http://www.etsy.com/shop/azmera

What do you offer in your Etsy shops?

Well I am always getting inspired to try all things art, you will find a variety of things yet my focus right now is on fashion and paper/fiber crafts. I inspire to make female clothing that bring out that Harvest ~ Princess ~ RaggaMuffin ~ inna you!

Where do you create? 

Right now you can find me in Atlanta, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos; Bahamas.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I inspire my biggest off the existence of life~

How did you get started in your line of business? 

I was just sewing for myself and friends until friends & family inspired me to start selling.

How do you promote your business?  

I really dont do much.. I have a myspace page and a couple of photo album pages yet other than that I don't do much.. its been good with those and word of mouth.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business? 

Even if you're not on a schedule you have to treat it like a business while keeping your creative mind open.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Things I would have like to known before selling on Etsy:

• Pictures . Make sure you have good pictures.. look around and admire other sellers and how they set up things. Don't copy yet get a good idea of how to do things.
• Use the Etsy tools and articles; they are helpful. I decipher the information for my needs.
• Use the Etsy fee calculator to determine the cost of your product. http://www.rolbe.com/etsy.htm
• If you're shipping more than 4 ounces out, invest in a kitchen scale and find out how much shipping is (is great for your international customers). I have lost out few times big on not having my shipping priced right.

~Just go for it.. If it's something you love doing and you can make income with it, that is the best work.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
I love so many shops on Etsy... yet here are a few that popped in my head.
ZenNubian7.etsy.com
Ngozicrafts.etsy.com
flytie.etsy.com
ChopstixWaits.etsy.com

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
beautifulwayz.blogspot.com
myspace.com/azmeracollection

Congratulations, Azmera, for being an EAOC featured artist!

Tune in on Friday to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Monday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Kelly

"Fire In My Eye" - 12x18 inch pastel drawing, matted in a 16x20 inch frame with glass

Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/misskart 

Tell us about yourself.

I am a creative introverted contemplative young woman. I have a tendency to daydream but not too much. I may come off stuck up at first, but I’m really a friendly, compassionate, funny, easy-going person most find out, just a bit shy. I love art and use it to express my feelings and thoughts and view points. I am always thinking about new ideas for new creations. I love to read good books and write anything from poetry to stories to songs. I love music and always have lyrics swirling around in my head. LOL. I studied visual art and received a B.S. Degree in visual art at Chowan University.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?

Currently I am searching for employment, a part-time job that will allow plenty of time for my Etsy business also.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?

http://misskart.esty.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?

Original Artwork created by me. I do mostly painting, but I also have drawings, sculpture and ceramics for sale. I do conceptual art along with landscapes and nature scenes and animals. I do custom pet portraits and I will very soon be offering reproductions of my paintings.

Where do you create?

I used to have a whole living room area for a studio in an apartment I used to rent. Recently I moved back home and have an average size bedroom to work in, besides my actual bedroom across the hall. I spend most of my time in my studio. The floor has carpet, so I use a big used table cloth for a drop cloth to do my painting on. But it works well for me because I don’t do any huge paintings or anything like that. I have a drafting table where I do drawing and some painting, a computer desk and lots of storage bins to keep my materials in, and I have various artwork sitting around wherever I can fit it out of the way.

Where do you find your inspiration?

My art is inspired by music, things people say to me, my various moods, and my life experiences good and bad. I don’t fancy and am not so good at expressing how I feel and what I think verbally, so I use art and writing as my voice mostly. Some famous artists that inspire me are Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo, Gorgia Okeeffe, Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet, and Vincent Van Gogh.

How did you get started in you line of business?

I began drawing and writing poetry ever since I first learned how to use a pencil. About 2 years of age or so. I’ve always loved art. I wanted to find a way to create and profit from it too. My aunt told me about Etsy. I had never heard of Etsy. She always encouraged me to do more as far as my art was concerned. So she suggested that I set up a shop and I did.

How do you promote your business?

To promote my business I use the Etsy forums, my blog, twitter, and the Etsy showcases every now and then. I also promote by word of mouth, business cards, e-mail, art shows, and Etsy chat rooms. I am a member of VAST (visual artists street team). Being a part of a good team is great for promotion.

What is one of your most important lessons you’ve learned since starting your business?

I have learned that it is fairly difficult to sell online. It takes a lot of effort, patience, and constant promotion. You can’t just set up your shop and leave it, thinking the sales are going to just drop in your lap. You have to go out and get them. The process is quite humbling. LOL.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?

Refrain from becoming so discouraged because you are not getting good results right away. Be patient. Don’t give up and keep learning about ways to better your Etsy shop. The sales will come when you least expect it. Also, don’t be afraid to sell what you like. There is a great chance that if you like it, other people will too.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?

Ok, I had named more than this earlier. Apparently I’m a fan of many Etsy shops. LOL

somavenus

TheExtentofSilence

AugustEve

Papercraftsbyk

Buttonhead

GumballGrenade

dogartstudio

heatherrobinson

BestArtStudios2

ElizabethGraf

stefny68

skysetter

Shawnaerback

lauratrevey

kellydietrich

amberalexander

artsharkdesigns

thepoppytree

obsoleteworld

Tapestry316

ImagineStudio

oneloveart

Rosiemusic

Paintallnightstudios

MADART

katep

SibylleD

RozArt

SevenWoodsStudio

Shauno

Thelittlefox

Lauren Gregg

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Facebook, Twitter)?

http://twitter.com/mentalityill

http://paintergirlworld.blogspot.com

Congratulations, Kelly, for being an EAOC featured artist!

Tune in on Wednesday to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Friday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Maya's Ideas

Hearts-a-Flutter Headband

This is a headband inspired by nature, hearts and butterflies!

Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/mayasideas

Tell us about yourself.
My nine year old  daughter actually started Maya's Ideas on Etsy, with my help and that of my sister. 10% of the profits from our shop goes to The Atlanta Community Foodbank and many global relief organizations. In the past few weeks, we have been concentrating on Haitian relief.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?
We are currently singer/songwriter musicians (my sister and I).

What is/are the address for your Etsy shop?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mayasideas

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
We offer a variety of accessories, hats, headbands, and wedding items. Our new spring collection will include dresses.

Where do you create?
We have a design studio in our home.

Where do you find your inspiration?
A lot of my designs come to me in my sleep! Nature, fashion, and prayer inspires me. It is a collaborative effort between me, my daughter, and my sister.

How did you get started in your line of business?
I have actually been designing clothing and hair accessories since I was 12 years old for family and friends.

How do you promote your business?
Word of mouth, social networking, etc. We actually get a lot of business outside of Etsy because we wear a lot of our designs and are literally stopped in the streets by people wanting to know where they can get what we are wearing.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
Trust in your creative instincts.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Be willing to work to work hard, and don't be afraid of doing something that you might not have done before. For example, if you are a shy person, learn to be more outgoing if it will help promote your shop. Research the market that you are trying to sell to.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
Barefoot bath and Body, too many more to name!

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
Facebook. We are setting up on Twitter as we speak!

Congratulations, Maya's Ideas, for being a featured artist.

Tune in on next Monday to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet Etsy Artist:  Laquita

Honey Shea Shampoo Bars - This is my 'signature' shampoo bar (4 oz). It's bursting with moisturizing shea butter, honey and cocoa butter. The top layer is sprinkled with shea and cocoa butter for added moisture.

Etsy Shop:  Laquita33.etsy.com

Tell us about yourself.
My name is Laquita and I love creating things by hand. I decided to start making bar soap as gifts for my family and friends. My love for all things natural hair led me to be a bit more creative with my soap making and I started making shampoo bars and hair teas.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?
Currently I am a fulltime editor in pursuit of a freelance writing career. I have my own natural hair blog, and I have contributed to several online hair magazines as well. I am also the DC Natural Hair Examiner for the Examiner.com - http://www.examiner.com/x-9837-DC-Natural-Hair-Examiner

What is/are the address for your Etsy shop?
Laquita33.etsy.com - Bobeam Natural Hair products.

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
So far I offer natural shampoo bars and hair teas. They can be bought separately or in sets. I am also working on a conditioner and three new shampoo bars geared for oily and dry hair/scalp and one for hair growth. I plan to re-launch the store this spring featuring the new items.

Where do you create?
I make my bars and tea at home in my kitchen.

Where do you find your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from my love of natural hair, as well as from customer requests.

How did you get started in your line of business?
When I would give the shampoo bars as gifts, people would ask for more and even offer me money to make them - they all suggested that I sale them.

How do you promote your business?
I do most of my promoting by way of social networking sites - Facebook, Twitter etc. I also promote on my blog.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
Since starting my business I’ve learned to listen to my customers, because of their suggestions I have branched off from more than just shampoo bars.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
I’m actually just starting out myself, but the advice I would give to someone else who is also just starting out is to just do it - don’t be afraid to jump right in and start your business. I had been saying I was going to start selling my shampoo bars for years and it only took a few minutes to get started.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
I have so many favorites and most are all on Etsy - I love natural hair products - I am a recovering product junkie, and I love hair accessories, handmade soap, especially those with natural ingredients, all things crochet, handbags, teddy bears and vintage clothes.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
Blogspot - http://allnaptural.blogspot.com/ 

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/people/Laquita-Thomas-Banks/1138862129 

Twitter - http://twitter.com/laquita33

Congratulations, Laquita, on being an EAOC featured artist.

Tune in on Friday to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Monday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Gwen H.

 

Wild Hearts Necklace

Etsy Shop:  http://gwen.etsy.com

Tell us about yourself.
I live in Alameda, California, which is an island right next to Oakland and across the bay from San Francisco, with my daughter, my boyfriend, and their two cats. I'm self-employed and really love the flexibility of that -- I can take a really long break to go read on the beach [it's around the corner] or meet up with a friend right in the middle of the day then do my work in the evening instead if I want. I started taking a painting class this semester -- I never had any art in school, so this is new for me and a lot of fun. Just on an educational level, it's been amazing -- I'm already seeing all kinds of things I never noticed before when I look at art, and it's been inspiring in my jewelry making as well.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?
I'm a freelance graphic designer. I mostly make web sites for a couple publishers and a bunch of small businesses/artists. I've been a freelancer since 2000, when I was laid off FOUR TIMES, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

What is/are the address for your Etsy shop?
Find me at http://gwen.etsy.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
"Hand-crafted beaded jewelry -- earrings, necklaces, bracelets and other accessories in charming and sophisticated vintage and modern styles using vintage and modern materials" is my current description. Eventually I'd like to write something more specific, but it's still a lot of fun trying out new things so I went with something more broad.

Where do you create?
I try to go to crafting meet-ups regularly, I am lucky to have several ongoing ones to choose from locally -- it's really helpful for getting feedback, tips, ideas, and the occasional compliment, which feels especially great when it's coming from a fellow crafter. I also like to bead while sipping coffee at my favorite café and at home while watching TV.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I really love mid-century style -- 1970s-inspired earthtones, 1960s mod colors, 1930s-40s Frida Kahlo/Josephine Baker/Carmen Miranda-ready bright fruits, romantic art deco flowers and leaves.

How did you get started in your line of business?
I started jewelry making in mid-2008, and I have been practicing steadily since then. It's just recently that I've felt confident enough to try selling some of my pieces. Also, I was accruing way more jewelry than I could ever use and wanted to start making back some of the cash I've been blowing on supplies so I can buy more ;]

How do you promote your business?
Right now, I'm still working on filling up my shop -- the photographing and writing are a lot of work! I've been looking more and more at what other people are doing -- updating the store often, blogging when you do and social networking seem to be the more popular methods of getting your name out there so I'm working on that next. And I've been looking into various street teams -- EAOC is the first I've joined.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
I really wish I had kept better track of the materials I've bought -- where they came from, what they're made of, how old they are, how much they cost. I've only started doing that recently and it makes writing up my listings, tagging, and pricing a lot easier when I know.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Experiment with everything you can think of as often as possible.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
Vintage beads: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadbrats
Photos: http://www.etsy.com/shop/irenesuchocki
Handpainted accessories: http://www.etsy.com/shop/vozclothingandart
Illustrations: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Geninne
Palette genius: http://www.etsy.com/shop/sharonclancydesigns and http://www.etsy.com/shop/tqbdesigns
Paintings: http://www.etsy.com/shop/karinsart
Monsters!: http://www.etsy.com/shop/vozamer
Muertos: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CarmelaJay

And this one isn't online, but I want to recommend Sharilyn Miller's Bead on a Wire book to anyone who's interested in learning some wirework. It's by far the most comprehensible book I've seen for a hands-on learner like me.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
http://ofrenda.wordpress.com
http://flickr.com/photos/gwen 

Congratulations, Gwen on being EAOC's featured artist.

Tune in on Wednesday to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Friday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Angie R.

Etsy Shop:  http://calabashcreations.etsy.com 

Tell us about yourself.

I'm a wife and "Mommy" with a love of paper, paint, and fabrics. I tend to think of myself as a free spirit who loves to create handmade cards,bookmarks, and  mixed media and collage pieces. I thoroughly enjoy the creative process and what it has to offer.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?

Right now it's all about the cards. When I'm not working on my handmade cards, I design cards for a few POD (Print on Demand) sites.

What is/are the address(es) for your Etsy shop(s)?

http://calabashcreations.etsy.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop(s)?
I offer handmade cards, bookmarks,decorative magnets, mixed media and collage pieces.

Where do you create?
I created  studio space for myself in my basement.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I'm often inspired by nature, and I'm hooked on vibrant colors, textures, and abstract dimensions.

How did you get started in your line of business?

This all started as a hobby based on a love of paper and handmade cards. I made cards for friends and family, and they encouraged me to take things a step further.

How do you promote your business?

I promote my business on line, at festivals and craft shows, and through referrals and 'word of mouth'.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?

I think that I would have to say that it's been about marketing. In order for your business to grow and do well, you have to pay attention to your marketing efforts.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?

I would say that you should take pride in your work, concentrate on getting your product out there, and don't forget to offer great customer service.

What are some of your favorite on line shops on and off Etsy?
Mocha Child Greetings and All About The Buttons on Etsy and on line shops that specialize in handmade papers.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?

I have a blog: www.calabashcreations.blogspot.com.  You can also find me on facebook.  I just created a fan page on Facebook for Calabash Creations, so please feel free to stop by and become a fan.

Congratulations, Angie on being an EAOC featured artist.

Tune in on Monday of next week to meet our next featured artist.

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Elizabeth W.

 

 Found in the Moonlit Grass. Acrylic on deepset canvas. 14 x 14 approx. Inspired by the many times God has met me in nature and talked to me through it. Moonlit nights talking with Him and feeling peace in my spirit and heart were among favorites.

 

Etsy Shop:  http://etsy.com/shop/shofarsong

Tell us about yourself.

I am a multiracial artist from Michigan. I am single, and live with a group of friends in a house one of them owns. I don't have a regular 9 to 5, but I have aspirations of a creative and ministerial nature. It's a cool kind of life.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?

I am pursuing a career in art and writing. I am also living a life of ministry, which includes music ministry.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?

http://etsy.com/shop/shofarsong

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?

Right now I am offering a few choice original paintings on top of the line canvas. Very soon I should be adding the piece I am currently working on.

Where do you create?

I create wherever I have the most space and light, which is not in my home, so I take my pieces on the road.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I am inspired by God usually, although one of my works was inspired by the family cat!

How did you get started in your line of business?

I have always loved to create, mostly crafts and then I got into jewelry for a while. I was never a painter. But then I asked God to increase my ability because I really wanted to paint, and He did! I realize, though, that my best work comes when I am worshiping God. It's pretty amazing.

How do you promote your business?

Well, I am pretty new to the game, so I am just starting out in promotions. I am getting more involved in the etsy community, and I have also created a website showcasing my work. I use facebook and other online social networking sites as well as art.com to talk about my work and show it off. I also have a blog I will be updating soon, as well as placing up flyers and handing out business cards. I have to bulk up my collection, but once I do, I would love to approach some of the local galleries.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?

Getting involved with online communities and connecting with various people is where it's at.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?

Bulk up your collection. Get involved! Find online communities of like minded artists and connect with them! Cross promote. Don't be afraid to hand out business cards or to approach coffee shops or other cool places to display your art.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?

Like I said, I'm new at this, so it is hard to say what is my favorite. On etsy, I think ReLoved Designs is one of my favorite artists and people. I like Kippyssomature as well. Off of etsy, I have friends who are artists who have pages on facebook, and I really like some of their stuff! Like Jona Lee Photography and Alberto Martin Photography.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?

www.wix.com/shofarsong/nunchakus & www.shofarsong.blogspot.com

Congratulations, Elizabeth for being an EAOC featured artist!

 Tune in on Friday to read about our next featured artist.

EAOC's Monday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Cassandra Bromfield

 

Bridal pillow with cowrie shell fringe.  Shells and pearls dot the corners of the pillow.

Etsy Shops:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/cabcomp and http://www.etsy.com/shop/vintagebycassandra

Tell us about yourself.  My name is Cassandra Bromfield and I create custom designed wedding gowns and social occasion gowns.  My inspiration comes from a potpourri of ideas that include an African inspiration with a modern chic styling.  I have also included in my line of dresses wedding accessories that I sell on Etsy.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?  At the present I will do freelance work for fashion, TV commercials, and print ads.  Hey, it keeps the lights on and I like cable.

What is are the addresses of your Etsy shop(s)?  I have two shops http://www.etsy.com/shop/cabcomp this one is my bridal shop, items like bridal pillows, pins and everything bridal. The other shop is http://www.etsy.com/shop/vintagebycassandra which I sell vintage finds.  My goal is to also create re-designed vintage styled clothing from old patterns that I have.

What do you offer in your Etsy shops?  In my bridal shop I sell cowrie shell pins, bridal pillows, waist beads, and other items.  Vintage by Cassandra sells vintage items, soon to grow and carry clothing that have a chic styling of the past.

Where do you create?  I create in Brooklyn, NY

Where do you find your inspiration?  Inspiration is found all over, but I am really liking African fabrics with a 50's styling.

How did you get started in your line of business?  I made something and sold it, boom I am in business.

How do you promote your business?  I promote using the internet, I write a bridal blog (cassandrabromfieldbridalblog.blogspot.com), write a newsletter, and of course tweeting, facebook as much as I can.  Much of my clients find me through word of mouth.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?  Be creative always, this is the energy that will get you through the tough times.  I have told this before.  I was looking in a box of fabric and there were lots of pieces of beautiful fabric.  None were big enough to create one garment.  So I decided to patch them together and make a dress from my patchwork.  There will be tough times but when you are creative, tough times just mean a creative challenge.  Some of the most beautiful things can come from a challenging experience. 

What advice would you give someone just starting out?  Start, just start, don't wait for the beautiful website you will promise to create.  Don't say you are not really an artist, writer, etc, and you are just starting out.  Say you are an artist, writer, etc.  People will believe you and then maybe you will believe it too.  Don't be discouraged when something doesn't work out.  Try to find out why and make a correction.  Be inspired, confident, and humble.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?  Oh boy, I had to stop looking for favs' it was taking so much time away from my focus.  However I do love Etsy, and most of the Shops I bump into.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)? cassandrabromfieldbridalblog.blogspot.com
cassandrabromfieldblogs.blogspot.com
mynewoldapartment.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/CassandraBridal
Facebook:  Cassandra Bromfield's Company
There are other sites which include flickr, twipic, and a few others.

Congratulations, Cassandra on being an EAOC featured artist!

Tune in on Wednesday to meet our next artist.

EAOC's Friday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  The Handmade Project

 

Tayna is a handcrafted cloth doll that was made in a pet-free, smoke-free studio.  She stands 13 inches tall and is suitable for infants and children.

Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/thehandmadeproject

Tell us about yourself.

Hello, my name is Yvonne Trace and I am a newly domestic girl in a material world.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?  I work for a nonprofit organization that keeps families in their homes through financial assistance-go Stimulus Package!

What is the address for your Etsy shop?  http://www.etsy.com/shop/thehandmadeproject

What do you offer in your Etsy shop? The Handmade Project makes handmade ethnic dolls and sewing patterns.

Where do you create? In a sunny craft room/ office/ kid's project room.

Where do you find your inspiration?  Seeing handmade goods that are irresistible but do not cater to ethnic children.

How did you get started in your line of business?  I started selling dolls in craft fairs and blogging.  My business is still at the grassroots level.

How do you promote your business?  SEO!  Offering freebies to be featured on craft sites.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?  To trust your inherent style.  If you like it, chances are that many more will.  You won't grow tired of doing what you love.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?  Find value in prototypes and improvements.  Creativity is fluid and should be embraced.

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?  Modish, Urban Paper Loft, and I keep finding more.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?  thehandmadeproject.com

Congratulations, The Handmade Project, for being a featured artist.

Tune in next week to meet our next featured artist on Monday!

EAOC's Wednesday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Sue Rock

 

 Sue Rock Originals creates unique fabric chain belts using vintage poly/rayon fabrics circa 1980's.  Available for every size - $25 (8.00 Priority Mail Shipping)

Etsy Store:   http://www.etsy.com/shop/suerock

Tell us about yourself.

Hey everyone, my name is Sue Rock and I am Executive Director and Founder of Sue Rock Originals Everyone, Inc.  I am a crocheter and needleartist of over 20 years and have a retail store and design studio based in Brooklyn, New York. 

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?
I am currently the Executive Director for a domestic violence non profit.  Our organization provides new handcrafted items for survivors of domestic violence who have left their homes for a new life.  We partner volunteers with the raw materials to knit, crochet or sew items for women.  We also train women in the needlearts to replace what they had lost in their search for a new healthy life.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/suerock

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
I sell vintage knit and crochet patterns on ETSY and sometimes vintage buttons and applique.

Where do you create?
I have a design studio based in Brooklyn,NY which houses donations and is where we create items for sale.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?

Stick to your talents and what you love.  Remember that you are entitled to every success you can imagine with the SKILLS THAT YOU HAVE!!!  These are the skills that will get you to the point that you want to be.  If you can read, read, if you can bead, BEAD, if you can write, WRITE - most important is to actually DO what it is you do and to DO it consistently!

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
I am an avid Ebayer!

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
www.suerockoriginals.blogspot.com
www.suerock.blogspot.com
www.iqons.com/sue+rock
facebook - suerockoriginals
twitter - suerock
www.smashingdarling.com
www.catwalkgenius.com

EAOC's Monday Spotlight

Meet EAOC Artist:  Ken Jones

 

Homespun 'Harvest' Cocoon Sweater

Etsy Shop:  http://kenjones5.etsy.com

Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ken Jones (That Crochet Guy). Been crocheting since I was 17, and I am a CYCA Certified Crochet Teacher for 10 yrs.

What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?

That's pretty much it.

What is the address for your Etsy shop?
http://kenjones5.etsy.com

What do you offer in your Etsy shop?

 Crochet patterns and a few items

Where do you create?

At home

Where do you find your inspiration?

All over

How did you get started in your line of business?

By some encouragement from some friends 

How do you promote your business?

Don't really promote.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?

Have patience.

What advice would you give someone just starting out?

Have patience

What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?

None, so far.

What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?

http://stores.lulu.com/crochetguy (Patterns)
http://crochetguy.tripod.com (Website)
http://thatcrochetguy.blogspot.com (Blog)

Ravelry ID: CrochetGuy
http://www.facebook.com/crochetguy

http://www.twitter.com/crochetguy

Congratulations, Ken, on being today's featured artist!

Tune in on Wednesday for EAOC's next featured artist.