RubyStella

Today I am pleased to introduce you to Jennifer Buselli from Redmond, Oregon of
Ruby+Stella Home.
I love her funky and fun style. One of my favorites is below....

What inspired you to make this product?
I was inspired to create home accessories primarily because I could not find what I was looking for. I wanted a pillow with a fun and funky look, that didn't cost a fortune. And when I came across the "world" of designer fabrics, I knew that I could create what I wanted myself.

What are your favorite materials to use?
By far, my favorite fabric to work with is anything by Anna Maria Horner. I have yet to tire of working with it. I still get excited when I get a delivery of it. She has the most fabulous designs! I also adore other designer fabrics by Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry and more!

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
I love numerous design websites. But my favorites are:

http://creaturecomforts.typepad.com/my_weblog/

http://decoraddict.blogspot.com/

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/

And of course, Etsy!

Canbot

Today I am pleased to introduce you to Orson Li from Hong Kong and Tokyo, Japan of CANBOT.COM and CanBot on on Etsy. These little robots and Dinos are made of cans! I love things that are repurposed and they just feel so retro. His answers to the questions below are so inspiring to me as a person and artist. Please go see his shop for more!


What inspired you to make this product?
I was inspired by the interaction of Art with Recycle. For the design of Canbot (Robot) and Canrex (dinosaur),I have combined the concept of origami and sculpture to create a figure that is built entirely using origami skills ( no screw and glue are used) to create a 3-D object. The material I selected is from the soda can which is made of aluminum. Blending the graphics and colors of each soda can create unlimited versions of Canbot and Canrex. Also the use of Soda Can fits the idea of "Recycle". I hope, through the Canbot or Canrex will remind people that the power of creativity could transform a valueless soda can into a valuable sculpture. The word of "CAN" in Canbot carries 2 meanings; the first "CAN" means it is made from a soda can and the second ”CAN’, means with the power of creativity and determination, you and I Can do anything!

What are your favorite materials to use?
Aluminum. It is soft as paper but firm as metal. It is easy to bend but easy to crack as well. The plate does not stand a second or repeated bend, and I have to make sure that each fold precisely and accurately as there is no chance for a second go.

What is your process in creating your art?
The first thing is to look for the right can. A perfect can is not too easy to find. I have to take careful look along the aisle of the soda drink section at supermarket; contemplate the color and graphics of each soda can would suit well with my design. After I make my choice on the color and pattern, I have to examine the quality of printing and shape of the can, making sure there is no scratch or den on the surface. I loved to collect soda cans from different countries when I travel, and some of the cans are special edition as well. I always carry handy tools with me, so I can cut the can into aluminum plate and carry it back to my studio. At my studio, I have to design the pattern and color matching for each canbot and canrex, it is really amazing that the unlimited combination of colors and pattern you can get from the can and that's the fun part! The next step is to empty the soda by drinking it or just flush it if that's not my favorite taste. Then I will have to sterilize the can and cut it into aluminum plate. After precisely marking each body parts on the plate, I cut them out and assemble according to the design of canbot or canrex. I have spent 3 years to develop and modify the design of Canbot and Canrex into a perfect model.
These design of these figures are based on the triangular prism, which has evolved to be the body of the figure. It has passed numerous testing of endurance and stability for the posture. I began to publish them to the public since late last year when I am sure that my sculptures have reached the state of perfection.

Papaververt

Today I have the wonderful Patty Benson from Alameda, Ca of Papaver Vert . I fell in love with this little coaster set and I know you will too! She has so many other ingenious wool products in her shop-You can also check out her personal site here- www.papaververt.com
What are your favorite materials to use?
I really love wool, which I know is obvious. I love it in many forms, not just yarn, but as raw wool roving that I use to make my pillows with or as wool fabric used for sewing. I remember going to fabric stores as a kid with my mom and always gravitating to the wool yardage! I also like muslin fabric which is great to manipulate and create patterns with and lastly I love threads and embroidery threads...anything to do with needlework.

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
I really dig Penguin and Fish...i just love those kitties!
Mudpuppy - his work is so clean and simplistic. He's also a really nice guy!
Tinctory - her smocked designs just blow me away.
GooseGrease - her little custom dolls are just so clever. I love that she can capture a whole family and her photos are great.
Yokoo - her designs and photography are amazing. A great blend of product and marketing.

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
I'm always stopping by The Sartorialist . I get such amazing ideas and inspiration from his photographs. I also frequent dooce.com for a dose of humor, the New York Times for news and the Home section, Bread & Honey a yummy food blog and The Style Files for ideas, interior shots and homes that make me drool.

Clotheslinedesigns

Today I am pleased to welcome Jen Lindsay of Kutztown, PA from clotheslinedesigns
on Etsy. She has a very simple and straightforward line. She makes and sells these gift sets like you see below...a onsie, stuffed giraffe and playmat in different fabrics. I am really drawn to her fabric choices and her mix of patterns and colors. You must check out her shop.

What inspired you to make this product?
I recently had my first real experience with children by having one of my own. Until then, I had seen them around, but they were always a great mystery to me. Now that my son is over a year old every new stage he goes through is like a surprise to me and I'm really enjoying it. Not being the natural born mom type (and a graphic designer) I was very drawn to fabrics and toys and clothing that had a modern day twist to them. A friend of mine gave me a fabric mat as a baby shower gift and I used it every day all the time. When he was a newborn it was an essential (especially with our hardwood floors). I would take him with me all over the house and set him down on the mat next to me: the bedroom, the living room, the computer room, the kitchen. And when he was a little older we’d pull the mat out for tummy time. For those of you who don’t know what tummy time is, it’s a developmental stage in an infant’s life where they need to spend time on their stomach in order to build up muscles necessary for holding their head up and eventually sitting upright. So in the end I wanted to make a product that was both useful and hopefully pleasing to the adult eye.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I’m from a small town in Pennsylvania called Kutztown. It’s got a strange blending of two very different cultures; the old ways of the Pennsylvania and the progressive ways of the local University. It’s a nice combination. I was a student at the University, and am slowly becoming a townie. I settled here because I love it. There are lots of influences and a big underground art scene. I’ve also collaborated with a few friends and some new ones to form a craft group called Z-Town Made: www.z-townmade.blogspot.com. We’re six different crafters who have a mutual appreciation for each other’s work and have chosen this area to call home. We meet weekly and help each other figure out the world of crafting, share influences, drink some beers and have a good time. It’s the one night out a week I have these days and I love it.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
Crafting is relatively new to me, but growing up my mother sewed. I think in the 70’s people did that sort of thing more often. She’d make my clothes and gifts and curtains for the house, that sort of thing. It’s easier and cheaper now to go to the mall and buy something on sale. But there’s a certain charm and deeper more sustainable feel to hand made. I’m not sure where my crafting will take me, I get the feeling I‘ll be expanding store into other ideas. But for now, when I can find the time, I enjoy sitting down to my machine to make pretty (and useful) things.

Collier Leeds

Today I am pleased to introduce Mary Oswald of Virginville, PA, from Collier Leads on Etsy and www.collierleeds.com
She makes these outstanding handcrafted dog collars. I always admire high quality collars because I have 4 dogs and only two currently wear a collar because it is so hard to find one that is attractive, comfortable and good quality. If you are looking for these same qualities in your collars you must check out Mary's shop.

What inspired you to make this product?
Several years ago I visited Leeds Castle in Kent, England where they have a dog collar museum, probably the only one in the world. The collars on display span over 5 centuries. I was so impressed with the design, quality and importance placed on the collars I wanted to adorn my own dogs with something as special. Unable to find the qualities I desired, I decided to make my own.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I am inspired daily by the search for excellence. I am always looking at my work and wondering how I can make it better. I am constantly tweeking. It can get very frustrating sometimes but in the end I know it will be worth it. My work has changed dramatically since I first started and I would imagine it will evolve more still.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch country. It is not uncommon to do business with the Mennonite community or see the Amish traveling in their horse and buggies. They have a real need for sturdy leather products because of the farm work they do. The utilitarian quality of their leather goods helps to remind me that my art is functional and used on an animal. I must keep that in mind when I design each collar and the choice of materials I use.

Necklush

I love the artistic concept of Necklush on Etsy- run by Troy and Stephano of NYC. These pieces are amazing and so different and interesting- I am just gushing now! Get yourself one and make a statement!

What inspired you to make this product?
Stephano just came up with Necklush, it was a magicial moment... He was buzzing around like Edward Scissorhands cutting fabric all day, shreads and threads flying everywhere... and suddenly- BANG! Necklush burst into the material world like a new religion! I came up with the name over quesadillas at our favorite Mexican restaurant and we put them up on Etsy that day and we simply haven't stopped. We are still in awe at the reception we have received. The fact that we make it all by hand, and have such a crazy reaction in such a short time means we are very fortunate, and we thank the gods every morning! People are wearing Necklush everywhere! Lithuania, Poland, Tokyo, Australia, Sweden... it's very, very cool!

What inspires you on a daily basis?
We feel very lucky to have connected with fun and creative people all over the globe. Inspiration comes in little emails spread out all day long, the inbox is addictive when you are getting requests for your handmade, heartfelt creations!

Who are some Etsy artists that you admire?
Etsy is an amazing place. I am very grateful to have found it, and I am only now realizing how big it's audience really is. And it is only going to get bigger. It is like a folk art universe on here, and I feel right at home! My favorite people on Etsy are : CricketsCreations, Kittybutt, and JamesAnthony!

Greenwich Letterpress

Today, I am pleased to introduce you to Beth Salvini of Greenwich Letterpress of New York. I spotted this great card that Beth makes one day on Etsy. I love architecture and I think this is a clever way of showing it off as art on a card. Beth also has her own site at www.greenwichletterpress.com
What inspired you to make this product?
The idea for this card was silly. One night I was looking through some clip art books and I saw the Falling Water image. I turned to my boyfriend and said in a very cheese ball tone, "You're always Frank Lloyd Wright!" The joke between the two of us is always, "That would be a great greeting card!" Then a few days later I sat down and designed it. It was his idea to do part of the impression without ink, so I guess we collaborated on it.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I am very inspired by popular culture. Since I was a kid I have been into collecting magazine clippings, watching tv and movies, listening to music and learning about art. When I went college all of that blended in with the paintings I made. Now it all turns into greeting cards, which for me makes sense. You can consume greeting cards as easily as you can a magazine or a candy bar. Its more accessible. I really like Andy Warhol and I think somewhere in my mind its all comes back to that.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in Brooklyn. Living and working in New York City you see everything or at least have the opportunity to. I do feel like I have seen it all. That's where the pop culture cards come from, it is easier for me to draw attention to something that already exists in culture then to try and make it from scratch. That might be a cynical New York thing.

Paper Tiger Design Co.

Today we have Michael and Melanie Heu of Paper Tiger Design Co. located in Brooklyn, NY
One of my previous featured artists recommended Paper Tiger and these great calenders- they are pretty awesome!

What inspired you to make this product?
The Spectrum Calendar was inspired by Pantone Swatch books and the International Typographic Style (Swiss). We are big fans of things that are simple, beautiful and functionally useful. The color spectrum moves through the seasons like a thermometer (cold months are shades of blue and hot months are yellow - orange).

What inspires you on a daily basis?
(Michael) I'm inspired by things both large and small - my day "job" is one of the founders of Intersect (www.intersectnyc.com), an interactive agency located in Manhattan. So I'm always surfing the web for inspiring work but offline I have also developed an (unhealthy) obsession with letterpress. Melanie managed to find an antique table-top press which we've been using to explore the world of paper goods. We also love to travel and I find that adventures outside the normal routine are crucial to sparking ideas and inspiration. I personally love illustration, 50's style modernism and clean typography.

What sites do you frequent the most?
ffffound.com
designspongeonline.com
thefwa.com
etsy.com
swiss-miss.com

What is your process in creating your art?
Typically I start out with doodles and sketches on a white 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper. We have a ton of them floating around the house. When I hit an idea that is appealing from a execution standpoint I will refine the designs and then move into Illustrator to generate the actual design. After the actual designs have been refined, it then becomes more production oriented depending on the final output (letterpress, silk screen, digital, etc). The train tends to be a great place to doodle and let ideas flow

Yorktownroad

I love the designs of Carol Gilbert of Northern California / Bay Area from Yorktown Road on Etsy- she also has her own site at www.yorktownroad.com
She makes these awesome purses and clutches as well as pillows and other accessorie. Clean lines and colors which feel a bit mens wear inspired with a feminine twist. You have to check her stuff out!

Where do you live and how does it influence your art?
I live in a community of mid-century homes that are simple in form and have great interest without bringing in a lot of different design elements. That concept is what I try to express in my work. Simple forms and usually just one base textile to create something beautiful, interesting and useful.

What are your favorite material to use?
I choose materials from the natural wool and alter them with random folds, pleats and seam-lines. Linen and wool are textiles I often use due to their beauty and versatility. I try to work with the natural character of the materials, to enhance a particular aspect of the textile and allow it to be seen in a new way.

Who are some of the etsy artists you admire?
PamelaTang - I'm really drawn to her work, both the wearable pieces and her original artwork. The linen wear is impeccably crafted and the silhouettes are modern and beautiful. I'm fascinated by her original art / mixed media work and how they compliment her wearable pieces so perfectly.

NestingEmily - Emily is such a talent. I have several of her pieces and treasure each one. She makes the most beautiful vases.

Plyhouse - Simple beautiful design. I purchased some of their pieces for gifts and had such a hard time actually giving them away.

FinalScore

Today I have Paul & Sharon Van Scott from Beckley, West Virginia. They rub the Etsy shop "Finalscore" and also have a web site at www.FinalScoreProducts.com
I just love art that is pixelated and they make this great piece of art- it's Papa Smurph but it is made up of smaller images that are Smurph related. Click on the picture to go to the listing and see another image that is a close up.
What inspired you to make this product?
I've always loved optical illusions and art that can be viewed in different ways. Montage/mosaics seemed to me to be the perfect item for fans of anything. After several years of traditional mosaic making I decided to go one better and make a few out of actual scenes from movies and TV. Being a kid of the late 70s/early 80s I was a little ahead of the Smurf craze but watched it nonetheless. Papa Smurf seemed like the perfect charecter to immortalize in blue Smurfdom with an art piece though I have to admit I also have a Smurfette and even Gargamel.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I'm a big sports fan so obviously I get a lot of inspiration there. I grew up near DC and have always been a big Redskin fan. With that in mind it was a huge thrill for me in 2007 when the Redskins star tight end Chris Cooley purchased a piece I did of him. Then last year his grandparents bought another piece I did of him on canvas. One of the stars of the movie A Christmas Story bought two items from me and had me do a custom piece of his famous scene from the movie. I think any artist gets inspiration from the things they like. It just makes doing the art that much more easy and fun.

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
I visit a really weird mix of sites. Since I'm a sports fan I go to ESPN.com a lot, ha ha. As mentioned earlier I like optical illusions and theres a UK site called www.grand-illusions.com that is just great for optical illusions, cool art, articles and items. I had been visiting the site for a couple years and then thought they might like to see my stuff and they ended up doing an article on my items and I did a special piece for them. It is still on there. I also like UFO sites, moviemistakes.com and jumptheshark.com.

RozArt

Today I would like to introduce Rosilyn Young of RozArt on Etsy. I spotted this cupcake painting that she made- it looks good enough to eat! She also has her own site called Drunken Cows


Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in south Texas, but am originally from NH. Being a Yankee, I would never usually be my thing to paint cows, cowboys or anything western. But I have been here a long time now and the area has affected me! Living on a working ranch one year had me (a confirmed city girl) falling in love with roosters and cows!

What are your favorite materials to use?
I always paint in oils. It's buttery consistently works well with my thick impressionistic style.

What inspired you to make this product?
I painted my first cupcake because I have baked so many for the kids, that I thought it would look great on the wall in my kitchen. When I used a palette knife to put the paint on as the frosting part of the cupcake, it was as if I were frosting one - and I knew I had something good. Ive sold a lot of these cupcakes - and I never grow bored of them!

Paige Russell Design

I am pleased to introduce you to the talented Paige Russell of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
I love the simplicity of this piece and that it can be displayed in a non-pretentious way. Her work is so clean and meticulous. Find more of her designs on Etsy or her own site.
What inspired you to make this product?
I have always had a strong affection for function & for simple beauty. Those two things took me to product design school. It was there (at Parsons School of Design in NYC) that I was introduced to ceramic slipcasting. I fell hard for the medium & the element of control over shape design and the ability to produce multiples that slipcasting provides. The pieces I've designed over the years in ceramic have also been informed by my habit of personifying objects. I want them to have personality and a bit of a story. I shoot for cheeky & hope to avoid novel!

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I'm really inspired by early to mid-century designers (both product & graphic) ie: Alvar Aalto, Isamu Noguchi, George Nelson, Harry Sierman.

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
www.architonic.com - for product
www.grainedit.com - for graphics
http://www.hetnago.nl/index.php - for graphics (via grain edit)
They are amazing!

Some of my fave etsy artists are:
Joanna Rutter She makes really sweet jewelry and is super nice person!

Papaver Vert Makes super yummy felted bowls, etc. Love 'em.

My mom, Sharon Russell She does kick ass modern acrylic paintings. So proud.

Paper Tiger Design Co. Check out the Color Spectrum printable calender & the Geometric Love cards. Brilliant!

SkyLarkStudio

I am pleased to introduce Karen Stanford from Virginville, PA of
Skylark Studio
I am always a fan of gorgeous and unique metalwork: these buckhorns caught my attention because they are modern and original. Karen has so many wonderful things in her shop.


What inspired you to make this product?
I originally made these buckhorns as a thank you gift for a friend who helped me out with my wedding. She wasn't exactly a "girly girl" - she's actually shot a buck so I figured they were appropriate! I was really into the deer theme that was all the rage in interior design at the time, the mounted heads, the woodland themed wallpaper, all that. Many of my designs are inspired by interior design trends, I'm obsessed with architecture and homes. But with my limited budget I can't exactly give in to my decor lust - so I try to make pieces that take those trends and turn them into classics that you can wear for a long time. you know antlers, cherry blossoms, swallows, etc. better than buying that wallpaper I know I'll get sick of in 2 years! I'm currently working on a line inspired by the hardware of my old house ...

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
This is an interesting question - just recently I had someone ask me "how do you live here and not die of boredom?" !! HA! So I live in Berks County, Pa, in a little village called Virginville. It's kind of like Deadwood but with atv's instead of horses. On summer nights almost everyone is having a huge backyard bonfire so it's got a wild vibe. It's pretty serious Dutch country, I actually used to live with Mennonites (looong story). You have to have an appreciation for simple things to be happy out here - gardening, hiking, creek dipping, biking, farmer's markets. There are very few places to get a good bite or drink, and nightlife? forget about it. We're close to a college town (Kutztown Univ.) so there are a bunch of college bars but no where to get a good martini.
BUT the absolutely great amazing thing about this area is that there are artists and crafters everywhere hunkering down in their gardens and studios. If you keep your ear low to the ground you hear of underground film festivals, nyc chefs cooking in farm fields, and crazy poetry slams in shacks in the woods. Most of us have done the city thing and are all here by choice, not wanting to waste away our money and time in the big city rat race. But we are only 2 hours from NYC and 1 hour to Phila so if you need a taste it's not too far away. I think it makes it easier to be true to yourself and your craft if you live in a place where you don't have to worry so much about making the rent and keeping up with the current fashions.

Who are some of your etsy favorites?
I have to give a huge shout out to our fledgling craft collective based in Kutztown, Z-town Made.
I can't believe all of these amazing crafters live within 10 minutes of each other in essentially "the middle of no where".
Sara Smedley makes THE coolest screenprinted aprons and napkins.
Kimberly of Chez Sucre Chez is a needlepoint master - bags to hand towels to pillows. so cool.
Melanie of Spread the Love makes the best light hearted illustrations.
Mary of Collier Leeds makes unbelievably rad leather dog collars.
Jen of Clothesline Design quilts perfect tummy time mats and stuffies for little ones.
Check them out!

Treasurefield

Today I am featuring Alisa from TREASUREFIELD
I love her fresh take on polymer clay and am especially loving these earrings of hers- classicly modern and so right now! She has a whole line of faux gemstones. Check her stuff out.

What inspired you to make this product?
I saw something else that made me think of this. I love when that happens!
And faux finishes & faux aging are so much fun with poly clay.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
Almost daily I see something I want to interpret in my own way, whether in nature or made by another artisan -past or present. Just the desire to be creative inpires me!

What are your favorite materials to use?
Paint, paper, pencils and polymer clay. :)

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
That would be hard to narrow down; there are so many! But I most admire the ones who come up with original designs and techniques.

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
Polymer Clay Daily http://polymerclaydaily.com for all the latest in poly-clay creations & news
Daily Art Muse http://dailyartmuse.com for all things "art"
D.J. Pettitt's blog http://djpettitt.blogspot.com/ just for the beauty of her paintings & collage
and Twitter.com to learn from and keep in touch with a world of interesting people!

Sewlutions by AMO

Today we have Arlene McFarlane-Harper of Sewlutions By AMO
I love these wallet cuffs that she makes. My favorite is pictured below. You can also find her on her own site- http://sewlutionsbyamo.com


What inspired you to make this product?
I am always trying to find functional yet stylish solutions that make life easier. My cuff with secret pockets are the perfect answer for people on the go or who like to travel light.

What are your favourite materials to use?
I love working with leather and wool.

What is your process in creating your art?
My mind is constantly being bombarded with creative ideas. They seem to come while I am driving or just before falling asleep. Sometimes it is a picture in my mind; sometimes it is just a tag line for promoting. Whatever moves me is what I will sketch or jot down on paper. Later I do a 3-D mock up in paper to work out the mechanics before I draft a working pattern.

The Original Rings of Catherinette Rings

I see the distinct styling of Catherinette rings everywhere these days. Daniel Proulx of Montreal, Quebec, Canada really knows you to get his signature rings "out there". He is giving us a sneak peek of a new ring made with a Chrome Diopside gemstone. The color is just dreamy, right?


What inspired you to make this product?
My name is Daniel and I'm the creator of the Steampunk & Cyberpunk rings
that can be found in my ETSY shop : www.CatherinetteRings.etsy.com .
When I started to make rings I always go for the more complicated designs.
My goals were to make wearable & durable wire sculpture . At that time i didn't know anything about steampunk but oneday a friend told me I should look into that because my rings were very similar in style. After some research I went to one of my material suppliers and bought antiqued metal beads and wire. I came up with the the current design . I have been inspired by mechanics, futuristic and a friend.

What are your favorite materials to use?
I really like to use gemstones and clock parts . I recently created a new model in which I drill by hand a tiny hole into Amber and inlay old vintage clock parts .
I also like unusual and rare gemstones such as Chrome diopside and Sphene titanite .
I don't have these in my shop yet, here's a preview of my latest ring with
Chrome Diopside that I made for myself.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in Montreal and I believe that the diversity of culture and architecture has an influence on my inspiration. Like in my city, I like to mix old with new .

Kate Cusack - Zipper Jewelry

Today I have the lovely Kate Cusack of Brooklyn, NY from Etsy. I am in love with this cuff and the simplicity and genius of her designs. She also has her own website- check her out!

What inspired you to make this product?
I made my first Zipper Pin in 2002. I had recently finished designing and creating costumes for a children’s dance theater company and I got my hands on bags and bags of zippers. At that point in fashion, pins and brooches seemed very in style. I was originally inspired by the idea of the Chanel flower, and thrifty/resourceful decoration of fashion from the 1940s. Because of wartime restrictions on materials, designers were forced to be more resourceful with extra pieces of fabric to decorate their garments. I always love these kinds of designs because there is a bit of a self-referential notion, and there is a simplicity when an entire garment from body to decoration is made from only one material.
I made a Zipper Pin for myself and wore it on my jacket. I was working in the visual merchandizing department at Tiffany & Company at the time and the woman who I worked for, admired my pin. I was working there to design and create five marie-antoinette-style wigs made entirely from plastic wrap (that you’d use to cover left overs with) for the store windows along 5th Avenue and 57th Street in Manhattan. I made the second Zipper Pin as a gift for the woman who’d hired me when the project was complete, as a thank you.

What are your favorite materials to use?
Zippers are exciting to me right now because of their connection to fashion and to costume design by association, but they are appealing in form because of how the metal teeth sparkle and how the linear construction potential is endless. A line can be shaped into anything. A zipper is simply a line.

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
I admire my good friend and art-jeweler Margaux Lange. (www.margauxlange.com) Margaux has created a compelling body of work using the bodies of Barbie dolls as her inspiration and main material. She creates unusual, beautiful jewelry that is compelling and even a bit creepy at the same time. I admire Margaux for the reputation she has created for herself and her work based on an iconic doll that most girls disregard before they turn into teenagers. She is constantly balancing the creative side with the business side of her jewelry and achieving great success.

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
notcot.org
nytimes.com
http://greendragonladyvintage.wordpress.com/
http://www.curiobot.net/
http://www.coolhunting.com/

What is your process in creating your art?
I think it’s always important to explore and brainstorm whether in 3D or 2D. Sometimes an idea comes just from handling a material and pinning it on a dressform, but other times, an idea can come from drawings in a sketchbook. Being sensitive to your own creative timing is important also. Sometimes my brain is only able to follow through on an idea I started months ago, sometimes I dread the idea of just executing an idea and instead I want to create a new one.

EmilyPeacockTapestry

I have had this lovely cross stitch pattern in my favorites on Etsy for some time. I want to make this- as soon as I finish my other projects. Emily Peacock of Cookham, Berkshire, UK is the girl behind the design you can find her on Etsy or at her own site- www.emilypeacock.com
She carries other similar patterns that you will love- check her out!
What inspired you to make this product?
I was inspired by the fact that so many crafts are experiencing a revival. I have always enjoyed a range of crafts, but particularly love to do tapestries. There was nothing available that seemed to inspire me or break with tradition and so I set about changing that. Working with your hands is so grounding and there seems no reason why people who love to create would not try something different. If you can follow a knitting pattern or do a cross stitch, you can make a tapestry... what's important is that the designs must be attractive, relevant and fun to do. I also love to create objects that I will use and enjoy. I have turned all my designs into pillows and they really influence the look of my home. I am now so hooked on creating my tapestries, I feel lost if I don't have one to work on!

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I don't like to limit myself to one theme. I enjoy being in the flow of life, aware of trends and what other people are doing and interpreting them in my own way. I keep my subject matter uplifting - my designs are about love and humanity and positivity. Yesterday, for example, I took a walk in Portobello Road in London. This area is world famous for it's individual and highly creative shops and stalls. Walking without searching, but just absorbing and enjoying, left me feeling energized and inspired. I have some ideas and themes I want to explore, but these ideas will inevitably be fed by what I have seen and experienced. It's important to open your eyes to the life and beauty around you, then you realize the possibilities are endless.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
When I began designing, I was living in the South West of France. The heat and colour were intense and the bright colours I use reflected that. The nature around me played a part in 'The Meeting Place', 'Stars over Corn ', 'Primal Sun ' and 'In Bloom' . Now I am back in the UK my life is more urban. My background is in graphic design and so I am more tuned into typography, retail trends and the man-made rather than the natural. Even in overcast England, my colors are still bright and eye-catching, so this is a personal choice, an expression of who I am and has little to do with geography. I find that the technique of stitching onto a blank canvas with vibrant colors really lifts the spirits and brightens the environment around you. My designs are not for the conservative or those that wish to blend in!

AnatomyofaSkirt and the ROBOTS

Today I would like to introduce you to Erin Wilk from Anatomy of a Skirt
of Southwestern Ontario, Canada. I find her robots to be very interesting and unique. You can also find her robots on robotaday.com

What inspired you to make this product?
I'd been making my robots pouches for a number of years, and they were always a fun little addition to my line.... and then one day I added a moustache, and I dreamed up the idea of making one robot, every day! I didn't realize it would take over my life like it has!

What are your favorite materials to use?
I love using vinyl scraps from my purse making... and I just adore industrial felt although I don't get to use it as much with the robots as I do with my purse line.

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
Oh, there are just so many! I'm currently in love with: MIXCO, NightjarBooks, woodenapples, maudstitch, fidoodle, portraitsofstumps, pidgepidge, Roadside, sarahapple, sheridesthelion.... I've only listed ten, but I could easily list 50!

What is your process in creating your art?
Generally I come up with an idea and then work out how I can make it into a robot- I make a quick sketch and then go to work! Sometimes I do a bit of research, like if I'm doing a historical figure, so I can get the costume right... sometimes my research is as easy as looking hte mirror and making faces to determine how to convery a mood or emotion! Then I'll get to the studio and pick out the fabrics I want to use, and make a prototype.

PinkTigersDen- Fascinating Fascinators and Headpieces

Today I introduce you to Nicola Sidaway-Smith, from Birmingham, UK of the PinkTigersDen on Etsy. You can also find her gorgeous hair pieces at www.TiarasAndFascinators.com
I am in love with this piece...it's called the Sarah Fascinator- I think if you are among the brave you may be able to wear this during the day.


What inspires you on a daily basis?
I'm inspired by lots of things but mostly organic shapes and colours from flowers, leaves, fruits and which I can then transfer into patterns and ideas for my headpieces. I'm also really inspired by other artists and am obsessed with cutting out ideas from magazines and sticking them into my scrapbook to call on when I have 'sewer's block'.

What are your favorite materials to use?
My main materials are sinamay which is a mesh that is pressed, looped and sewn into place to create the shapes I use as the basis to my fascinators. It comes in a wide variety of colours and when moistened, shaped and dried takes on the shape you want it to so is really versatile. I also love crystals and pearls and there is just something wonderful about taking a flat piece of mesh and a few crystals and constructing out of it an elaborate head piece or a beautiful piece of jewellery.

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
I absolutely adore The House of Mouse because of the tiny cutest mice that Anna the owner creates. I just wouldn't know which one to have because they are all so cute!
I am also really inspired by my fellow Etsy Wedding Teamers Mikiye Creations and Whichgoose. Both produce exquisite hair pieces which are totally different from what you can buy on the high street.

NeaWear- Jewelry and Wall Wear

Cruising around Etsy I always find the most interesting and unique items. This little stiletto heel needlework necklace is quite a find. Made by Janick of Montreal, Canada, who runs Neawear on Etsy. She has many special jewelry and wall pieces to choose from in her shop- you must have a look. She has also just done an interview for the Storque- "Quit Your Day Job"- it is linked in her shop announcement.


What inspired you to make this product?
I started making cross-stitch necklaces and thought it would be nice to combine a jewelry love with a shoe addiction! Stilettos are not always for everyday life, but with this piece I felt people could have both the flats and high heels at the same time!

What are your favorite materials to use?
Linen, of course! I find it so much more rich in texture than traditional Aida cloth for needlework. I love metal also, and everything mixed-media, so I try to mix everything up in my embroidery work often too, it keeps everything interesting!

What are some of the websites you most frequently visit?
I blog a lot ( http://fonetik.wordpress.com ), so I read many many blogs as well. A few of my favorites at this moment would have to be Poppytalk, Perfectbound, For Me For You... Other sites I visit daily are places like Flickr, Twitter, Google Analytics, and of course, Etsy allllll the time!

Masaoms Jewels

Today I am featuring Marta of masaoms.etsy.com She is a jewelry artist who makes some beautiful pieces that mix metals that are very organic and unique.



What inspired you to make this product?
Currently I have Atón, Geb, Nut, Isis and Lotus Flower collections. All of them come from the ancient Egypt, from its gods and goddesses and the beliefs that survive till today. I admire German jewelry and enjoy their technique very much. I love to mix modern techniques with more personal designs and new takes on old jewels. My passion for stones led me to study Gemology and this opened for me windows into an incredible world, with lots of minerals to discover and utilize.

What are your favorite materials to use?
I usually use Silver and natural stones. Sometimes I include 24kt gold in my jewels to create textures and colour contrastes.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in Barcelona, although I was born in Vic, a city 70 km from Barcelona. In Vic, when I go to my mother's home, I find nature, clean air and a lot of memories. When I'm in Barcelona I love the sea, the mix of diferent people and to get lost at antique streets. One of my favourite places is "Plaça Sant Felip Neri", it's inspiring

Brook Owens Embroidery

I am please to introduce Etsy artist Brook Owens who does these wonderful embroidered pieces. She has something for everyone in her shop- from baby onsies to wall art. Check her out at brookowens.etsy.com


What inspired you to make this product?
All 1940's 1950's art inspires me. WWII posters, magazine ads, Tattoo flash, pin ups, artist such as Gil Elvgren, Alberto Vargas, and Sailor Jerry (Norman Collins). I love pushing the limits to what can be embroidered. No longer being restricted to kittens and puppies! A huge inspiration was Jenny Hart. I love her portraits. Her patterns from Sublime Stitching is what really made me put down the knitting needles and pick up a needle and thread!

What inspires you on a daily basis?
Everything really... Most of my ideas come from just stumbling upon images that spark my interest. Anything I can trace I can embroider. That is what I love about embroidering, the possibilities are endless! I find a lot of inspiration from other crafters and sites such as flickr and Craftster.

What are your favorite materials to use?
For embroidering I love a good quality cotton. So far I have found it is the most forgiving. As far as my other crafts I do, I love wool blend felt. It is also so amazing to stitch on!

Jessi Taylor and the Mangels

I am pleased to introduce Jessi Taylor from Etsy. I was intrigued by these bracelets and taken by the cleaver name. You can find her and all of her wonderful products at jessitaylor.etsy.com


What inspired you to make this product?
well, there are these bracelets that bike people make out of old bicycle spokes; the spoke has a little button on the end that makes for a great clasp. i adapted that idea into a unisex bracelet that is kind of fancy, but really easy to wear; and i really love that it might be recognizable to a bike mechanic with a keen eye!

What are your favorite materials to use?
sterling silver and gold are my media; but what really gets me going is setting things in it: natural stones, buttons, typewriter keys, bike reflectors, taxidermy eyes, beach glass, ceramic tiles.....

Who are some etsy artists that you admire?
there are so many awesome artists on etsy!
sunnyrisingleather.etsy.com
gaiaconceptions.etsy.com
eggmanstudios.etsy.com
ruffeoheartslilsnoty.etsy.com
LoucheLab.etsy.com
hierapparel.etsy.com
Elizaveta.etsy.com
and of course, all my peeps at etsymetal:
etsymetal.com

Pacokeco

Today we are talking to Cohen, who's shop is pacokeco on Etsy. These cute tickets caught my eye one day as I was surfing around Etsy- they made me want to check out the rest of her shop. you can do the same.... www.pacokeco.etsy.com


What inspired you to make this product?
As with 90% of the items in my shop, this began as a request for a custom item. My buyers are a creative bunch. They give me the ideas and I just execute them. Often, my humble little paper bits are just starting points or embellishments for larger or more elaborate craft pieces. Some pieces have even been made into jewellery!

What inspires you on a daily basis?
The almost neurotic need to stay busy and my love of deconstructing, recycling and repurposing. Most recently, I pulled apart an old sweater and reknit it into a divine, airy, mesh scarf while watching the 3 hour movie Artificial Intelligence.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in a small blue collar city in Ontario, Canada made up primarily of auto workers. People here are practical and thrifty and my tendancies are to be fancy and artistic. I realize you can be all of those things, just not all at the same time.

BicyclePaintings

What inspired you to make this product?
Bikes!
It’s a celebration!
This piece is part of a group of work. It’s a screenprint based on a monotype. The monotype is made up of lots of single bikes that I cut out of rubber and print individually until I’m visually satisfied.
All the bikes are from my paintings, they’re my friends bikes, mostly.
I like to see them heaped together, the shapes they make. The way they make me think of a lot of different people arriving at the same place.

What inspires you on a daily basis?
I like to make art that relates to what’s going on around me.
Of course there’s lots of bikes, because I use them for transportation and also ride with my friends and for exercise. I’m very inspired by bicycles both actually and symbolically. I love how a bicycle makes it possible to harness my own energy to move forward. They’re also really beautiful.
Other than that I’m inspired by what I see, on a basic level, shapes, the way light hits things, and I’m inspired by what my friends are doing, both artistically and generally.

What are your favorite materials to use?
I use a lot of different materials. It’s fun to explore media. I keep coming back to oil paint, it’s so luscious. I like acrylic on paper, a lot, I like drawing materials, watercolor pencils and crayons especially, I like printmaking on a press and screen printing.
I try to find the medium that best suits what I’m doing. They all have unique qualities, like different foods.

Where do you live and how does that influence your art?
I live in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, in a big loft I share with other people. It’s a raw space, that’s great for working. It influences my work because my studio space is so great for making stuff. It’s also a nice neighborhood with a lot of artsy stuff going on.

Making a Comeback!

Hi all!
I have not posted for 3 weeks and am excited to get back in the swing of blogging and promoting my jewelry business.
Since I last posted I have moved and am still in the throws of all of it to be honest. I feel settled enough to get back into things a little. All of my essentials are in place and I can park one car in the garage so I think I am not doing too badly for just getting in a week ago.
I should be back in the later part of this week with my first featured artist of the new year- keep checking back!