tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79136305346489133552024-03-13T10:27:56.139-07:00Jewelry by Saniki Creations - BlogHandmade Chainmaille & Other Adornments ~
Welcome to our BlogAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-21608903046874827372012-07-30T17:37:00.000-07:002012-07-30T17:37:44.637-07:00The start of something new...After pulling my hair out for a few weeks, I got myself out of doing my own coding and such for my website and transferred everything over to another venue, so my site is on a more "Penny-Friendly" where I don't have to fiddle with backups, coding, losing data...<br />
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Today was rough.. I couldn't for the life of me get my domain to point to the new site.. but after about 8 cups of coffee and being online with my domain registry's tech support, everything is working properly.<br />
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So when you have a chance.. come see my new (and definitely improved) site<br />
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<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/"><b>http://www.sanikicreations.com</b></a><br />
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The new site has a blog.. so I will be retiring this blog effective immediately. My new blog is located on my site so no more going from one site to another. Easy Peasy for me! <br />
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<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/blog"><b>http://www.sanikicreations.com/blog</b></a><br />
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I'm not sure how people can follow the posts yet, but I will be advertising out new posts via Facebook and Twitter.<br />
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Thank you everyone who has been so patient with my various techie problems for the past few weeks. Hopefully I'll see you all at the new blog!<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-21375249886012411362012-06-18T13:02:00.001-07:002012-06-18T13:02:57.973-07:00Winners of our Fidget Pendant Giveaway!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2bdcflEiiSLdolAWszo9UmtypM-ErXO5AXUOYbWQaDavApF4kR2EBwQYxvpKNAdlV02Us2ukp4hwlhE87bwJvyehSzcT3N82mOAcQNGz-3XhY9IfvD0TtlkNxtKQBHSw22sJzJg-zUE/s1600/blog+giveaway+winner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2bdcflEiiSLdolAWszo9UmtypM-ErXO5AXUOYbWQaDavApF4kR2EBwQYxvpKNAdlV02Us2ukp4hwlhE87bwJvyehSzcT3N82mOAcQNGz-3XhY9IfvD0TtlkNxtKQBHSw22sJzJg-zUE/s400/blog+giveaway+winner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Firstly I want to thank each and every one of you who entered our Blog Giveaway for the Fidget Pendant, recently in the celebrity swag bags at the GBK 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge !!! I am so honoured to have you, my fans, support my business, my creativity, and well... just me in general!!!<br />
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Now the <b>2 Winners</b> of a handmade <a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Fidget Dodecahedron Chainmaille pendant</a> are:<br />
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<b>Fen Li-Nguyen</b></div>
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<b>Monique Couturier</b></div>
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Congratulations Fen and Monique! I will be sending you an email shortly!<br />
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Again, thank you so much everyone who entered, helped promote and love my creations.<br />
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Talk to you all soon!<br />
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<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a><br />
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*winners were chosen randomly by Rafflecopter.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com3New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-31190579045339415412012-06-07T16:38:00.000-07:002012-06-07T16:38:29.349-07:00Celebrity Love for Saniki Creations Chainmaille at the GBK 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z71jM6u5yxNGVcLbstgELMnd0Kf-q_DEi88RRDq8ComyHwFVue88X_OOWV-KdaJlygguo7kAeywmd1Z_WeQ-ukZJRe0PpLaKd__FNmritHZSGB8vENZpfI75Nhf12j36AzcODL9x4Vc/s1600/celeb+mtv+5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z71jM6u5yxNGVcLbstgELMnd0Kf-q_DEi88RRDq8ComyHwFVue88X_OOWV-KdaJlygguo7kAeywmd1Z_WeQ-ukZJRe0PpLaKd__FNmritHZSGB8vENZpfI75Nhf12j36AzcODL9x4Vc/s320/celeb+mtv+5-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fidget Pendant </td></tr>
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On June 1st and 2nd, <b><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank">Jewelry by Saniki Creations</a></b> sent <u>100</u> <a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank"><b>Fidget Dodecahedron Chainmaille Pendants</b></a> to be included in swag bags via <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i> at the GBK 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge in the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lermitagebh" style="color: #1c2a47; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">L'Ermitage Beverly Hills</a> Hotel, California. We also had our <b>Chainmaille Framed Tree of Life Wall Decor</b>, which we have now named "<b><a href="http://sanikicreations.com/HG027_Cybele-Diana-Amethyst-Chainmaille-Suncatcher-WallArt-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Cybele-Diana</a></b>" on display at The Artisan Group table.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4rf6UA9I_1SA5IYasQ3f_WFSBrNNzxHPbmXaaG6xQSqdT_qgQhwrvasmxRN8fuK2aWKMp1ZadnL1uimIJ5Y_54qqzuzJT5NWmjxBHVzfQSijOWdj-gfaI4n5F5pq4gHMiR3VEpYjjXY/s1600/cybele-diana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4rf6UA9I_1SA5IYasQ3f_WFSBrNNzxHPbmXaaG6xQSqdT_qgQhwrvasmxRN8fuK2aWKMp1ZadnL1uimIJ5Y_54qqzuzJT5NWmjxBHVzfQSijOWdj-gfaI4n5F5pq4gHMiR3VEpYjjXY/s320/cybele-diana.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cybele-Diana Suncatcher</td></tr>
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Though I wasn't present at the location, I was connected, via Facebook and Twitter, to my fellow "TAG" members, on who came to see the display of my Tree and the displays of my fellow members of The Artisan Group, who were also participating in this event.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgII3bHV76KR6fsQCsx2pQWGaFqs6_rhnkChvhedZmhvLfeTJOhiq-Xix5U1ivnajwX5AEwz-UJKQC5LSuPFNdTXCfw6Rxakd8imzyQkhn15EUur2xQtcK76Nm3nAWdzSzilVbcFAcX_44/s1600/official+finalized+display+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgII3bHV76KR6fsQCsx2pQWGaFqs6_rhnkChvhedZmhvLfeTJOhiq-Xix5U1ivnajwX5AEwz-UJKQC5LSuPFNdTXCfw6Rxakd8imzyQkhn15EUur2xQtcK76Nm3nAWdzSzilVbcFAcX_44/s640/official+finalized+display+table.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Artisan Group display table. My tree is on the lower right hand side.</td></tr>
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I was also lucky enough to receive some feedback, via twitter, of my Fidget Pendant from a couple of celebrities that received the swag bag.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-DarcyRoseByrnes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-DarcyRoseByrnes.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Darcy Rose Byrnes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-CamilleWinbush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-CamilleWinbush.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Camille Winbush</td></tr>
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My favorite tweet was from Nikki DeLoach regarding my Tree of Life display. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-nikkideloach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/twitter-nikkideloach.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Nikki DeLoach</td></tr>
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Speaking of my Tree of Life Display... <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0217645/" target="_blank"><b>Nikki DeLoach</b></a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2172460/" target="_blank"><b>Jayson Blair</b></a> was so sweet enough to take these professional photos with my display.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/SanikiCreations-Celebrities/Penny_NikkiDeLoach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/SanikiCreations-Celebrities/Penny_NikkiDeLoach.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0217645/" target="_blank">Nikki DeLoach</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/SanikiCreations-Celebrities/Penny_JaysonBlair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/SanikiCreations-Celebrities/Penny_JaysonBlair.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2172460/" target="_blank">Jayson Blair</a></td></tr>
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So what's next? I would love to create a Tree for Nikki and Jayson, more promoting SanikiCreations and, of course, more chainmailling... oh, by the way... the Tree that they are pictured with... has been sold.<br />
Until next time...<br />
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<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a><br />
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Be sure to follow me on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Twitter </a></b>and on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/JewelryBySanikiCreations" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b>!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-80120756092550293932012-05-20T20:24:00.002-07:002012-06-03T09:32:57.309-07:00Fidget Pendant Giveaway May 21st to June 17th!In a couple of weeks, <b>Jewelry by Saniki Creations</b> will be debuting at the <b><i>GBK 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge</i></b> in Hollywood, California. Held on June 1 and 2, our <i>Chainmaille Framed Tree of Life Wall Decor</i> will be on display at <a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank"><b>The Artisan Group</b></a>'s exhibit. Plus our <b><a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Fidget Pendant</a></b> will be tucked into 100 swag bags for the celebs who visit the display to take home. Truly an exciting opportunity to take part in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4pfz68TGNWi4BcPae1XXZD5FEJRPUMRXBozndaR7y7aJ9rtKQ4tS_7Ms3XXPphDQl5WdEuPQCce3yo4Crh3Dnysf4_LHZoIAlBOMFjz2cK75Ty9y53tul-mwyWVwTppnmrE_FcIo6cc0/s1600/display+front-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4pfz68TGNWi4BcPae1XXZD5FEJRPUMRXBozndaR7y7aJ9rtKQ4tS_7Ms3XXPphDQl5WdEuPQCce3yo4Crh3Dnysf4_LHZoIAlBOMFjz2cK75Ty9y53tul-mwyWVwTppnmrE_FcIo6cc0/s640/display+front-1.jpg" width="489" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chainmaille Framed Tree of Life Wall Decor</td></tr>
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To share in our excitement and to thank our followers for their continued support, we are doing a special giveaway of our <a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank"><b>Fidget Pendant</b></a>. <br />
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<b>Here's what you can win:</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriwFygIafIvbiRjhjWiWqqedqzRyz1q_ydR8ijosd62uWUyJqtiPdC5tbfOfbblWb_5QdkbFuqAbu7kg5UhXbqkFPhT8QClaDxf0UcC8lIc94hLfehbE51xcv7iCbrT3yold1i6Mrfd4/s1600/fidget.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriwFygIafIvbiRjhjWiWqqedqzRyz1q_ydR8ijosd62uWUyJqtiPdC5tbfOfbblWb_5QdkbFuqAbu7kg5UhXbqkFPhT8QClaDxf0UcC8lIc94hLfehbE51xcv7iCbrT3yold1i6Mrfd4/s640/fidget.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Win one of our <a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Fidget Pendants</a>!</td></tr>
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Below are the details on how you could our Fidget Pendant (plus the typical small print stuff):<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Prize: </b> Fidget Dodecahedron Chainmaille Pendant in your choice of metal: Bronze, Copper, Jeweler's Brass, Stainless Steel.attached on a 18-inch organza ribbon and cotton cord. (retail value $55.00). Click <b><a href="http://sanikicreations.com/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">HERE</a></b> for full item description from our website.</li>
<li><b>Number of prizes available</b>: 2 </li>
<li>Giveaway is open to all residents 18 years and older in Canada and the United States.</li>
<li><b>Giveaway Starts</b>: Monday, May 21, 2012</li>
<li><b>Last day for entries</b>: Sunday, June 17, 2012</li>
<li>Enter via our Rafflecopter form below.</li>
</ul>
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/" id="rc-3e423c1">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js">
</script>
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Good luck to everyone and thank you for your continued love and support!<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-24777128856472321562012-04-27T07:52:00.000-07:002012-04-27T07:52:25.018-07:00Meet Rita Sunderland of Rita Sunderland Jewelry - Featured ArtistLet's start Friday and the weekend off with some gorgeous bling by <a href="http://ritasunderland.com/" target="_blank"><b>Rita Sunderland Jewelry</b></a>, a fellow member of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>, <b>Rita Sunderland's</b> jewelry style is anything but ordinary. Using an array of Gold-Filled, Sterling Silver, Crystals, and Semiprecious Stones to hand make her sophisticated yet easy to wear designs, Rita has also incorporated her talents in macrame into her unique brand.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_XSxfilJx8QfsyDZgsZw0LnL18zgjqATIf1oXBG59rQj2mVFDQZsR0X0MuPcnA8TzJMvARUfTqYphpyt1WR2IyEP6Da6qzcYmp4lcdD6x9tCb2RUG_6Q0S3MmbKLZgpzJu-xnMUwbU0/s1600/rita+sunderland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_XSxfilJx8QfsyDZgsZw0LnL18zgjqATIf1oXBG59rQj2mVFDQZsR0X0MuPcnA8TzJMvARUfTqYphpyt1WR2IyEP6Da6qzcYmp4lcdD6x9tCb2RUG_6Q0S3MmbKLZgpzJu-xnMUwbU0/s400/rita+sunderland.jpg" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rita Sunderland, Designer - Jewelry</td></tr>
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<a href="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/rita.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/rita.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I started in macramé at 5 years old with a family business where I was born in Russia, then in 2004 here in the USA I tried micro macramé jewelry with limited success. My husband bought me tools and said to try my hand in metals, well let’s say I found my niche, with a dash of inspiration.
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<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Yes it was simple copper wire and crystal, more of a learning tool. The real designs took 4-5 years to come together.
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1562742201"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/themes/eStore_V2.3/timthumb.php?src=http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_209344-1.jpg&w=298&h=226&zc=1" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/14k-gold-filled-red-garnet-earrings/" target="_blank">Red Garnet 14K Gold Filled Dangle Earrings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours? </b><br />
I usually seek stones that have meaning then find the best and most interesting cuts available to me. Then I let the stones speak to me and try to make a design that shows the stone off and is not detracting from the future owner’s beauty or from what the stone naturally has. I also try to see these along with the shapes of a woman, since that is where they will ultimately be displayed.
<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began? </b><br />
Oh my, to think I started with store bought cotton twine and glass beads…Now I have made several evolutions and can see myself moving into torch and casting work in the next few years if business permits it.
<br />
<br />
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Usually a free moment, those are hard to come by being a mom and wife, but when the time comes it is the shapes and stones that inspire me the most. Each contains symbolism and meanings and that is a whole story in itself.
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1562742215"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_209409-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/smokey-quartz-with-citrine-and-sterling-silver-necklace/" target="_blank">Smokey Quartz with Citrine Sterling Silver Necklace</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work? </b><br />
One was to get the ability to stay home with my daughter after she was born; I have managed to get through six years being mommy and an artist. I also wanted to make people smile and I seem to have done that over and over, that alone is probably my greatest achievement.
<br />
<br />
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why? </b><br />
I don’t know too many, my husband is a multi-talented artist and his creativity and capacity is endless, I wish mine were so easy. In crafting my friend Vasilisa makes these dolls (<i>FancyDolls.us</i>) that really as a craft capture the essence of the people that they are taken from, it is like a whole new life form from her hands!
<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share? </b><br />
Sure. I really am aiming to also work in precious stones and get a space to work with them, it has not been easy working out of our small flat between all the projects our family has!
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1562742224"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/themes/eStore_V2.3/timthumb.php?src=http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC03536-1.jpg&w=298&h=226&zc=1" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/14k-gold-filled-macrame-pearl-bracelet/" target="_blank">White Pearl and Macrame Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
What is that? Really, I and my husband only sleep about 6 hours a day as is, maybe a vacation is in order.
<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where? </b><br />
I have 2 sites currently <b><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/">RitaSunderland.com</a></b> and <b>RitaSunderland.ru</b> for those in Russia and Eastern Europe.
<br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I have not found a way to make retail work…So I have kind of dropped all focus on that for the time being.
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1562742234"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://ritasunderland.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC07501-001-1024x950.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/14k-gold-filled-low-profile-ruby-ring/" target="_blank">14K Gold Filled Low Profile Ruby Ring</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Be patient and persistent. If money and business plans do not move as fast as you want, then you only have one option! Make enough pieces to force yourself on the world, if you are prolific enough the world has to deal with all your creations. I learned this from my husband and it was the best advice and vision an artist can have outside of creativity.
<br />
<br />
<b>If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.</b><br />
Thank you for taking interest in my work and ideas, I hope that with all the turmoil and craziness in the world that some of us return to the arts that have carried us through centuries. Focus on what we as people can create, not destroy! If the whole world stopped and learned to knit a sweater, the world would have several days of no violence, aggression, politics and money worries! Plus there would be a lot of warm people next winter! Just a thought….
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thank you Rita! Be sure to check out Rita's beautiful jewelry collections at these sites:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/JewelryByRitaSunderland" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://twitter.com/RitaSunderland" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://ritasunderland.com/blog/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com5New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-91285455449679679412012-04-23T15:58:00.001-07:002012-04-23T15:58:18.018-07:002012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge - FINISHED.. Now the Waiting Game<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdlfMIcF-y3uh_EeaptqFJaM8PZF8-owLMivRxpiodUjEpuRijoX1n6uCCtp1U-DB6paN6QeypKyXc7k9MmsZr2Ywr6V-q3rsySYGz23GFX63Lc5MgMWHm1DgKH57K9U4y4NIkvvIZso/s1600/mtvmovieawards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdlfMIcF-y3uh_EeaptqFJaM8PZF8-owLMivRxpiodUjEpuRijoX1n6uCCtp1U-DB6paN6QeypKyXc7k9MmsZr2Ywr6V-q3rsySYGz23GFX63Lc5MgMWHm1DgKH57K9U4y4NIkvvIZso/s400/mtvmovieawards.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I think I'll be able to sleep for more than 4 hours a night now. After approximately two months of chainmailling away, my <b><a href="http://sanikicreations.com/chainmaille_category/chainmaille_necklaces_pendants/P003_Fidget-Dodecahedron-Chainmaille-Pendant-MTV_Exclusive_Gift-SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Fidget Pendants</a></b> for the <b>2012 MTV Movie Awards Celebrity Gift Lounge</b> hosted by <i><b>GBK Productions</b></i> and through my membership with <i><b>The Artisan Group</b></i>, is now off to sunny California to be packed up in 100 swag bags. <br />
<br />
Along with my pendants to keep them from misbehaving is my <b>Chainmaille Framed Tree of Life decor</b>. It will make it's debut on the presentation table of <i><b>The Artisan Group</b></i> along with fellow members who are also embarking in this incredible journey.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHv8Pa4qfy0Bl90qp9rF9TeC9w2JcxmbOOGwXk_jL3NAyH4ANh_UHGbC7HxU48XUYOjg3IArqd590cd9AhOUUMZeroWqz4vxIK4V19KPnLFzWt6wN3brK1VhiWyYoN2bj1IZgtJZaCfc/s1600/IMG_2962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHv8Pa4qfy0Bl90qp9rF9TeC9w2JcxmbOOGwXk_jL3NAyH4ANh_UHGbC7HxU48XUYOjg3IArqd590cd9AhOUUMZeroWqz4vxIK4V19KPnLFzWt6wN3brK1VhiWyYoN2bj1IZgtJZaCfc/s400/IMG_2962.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to assemble 100 swag bag gifts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have to admit, this was a stressful thing for me to do, but I had a lot of fun doing it. Stressful only because I'm a bit obsessive compulsive and something about deadlines gets me all worked up. Now that my little "babies" are off to be loved by a celebrity neck, I just have to sit for a bit, breathe and wait for the event on June 1st and 2nd. Of course I can't sit for long as there is promoting to be done before and after the event.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqqKZkagyB5LUE5NXmMovsBExbXgZgVXSL9at1byQBQHe5QPq-DIo-D11OBEmw_SOLpUkIWKDkKr4klr8irc4vZM18LCjqqQLohMVWReqoJl0PWWEJHueiNjkpkJFZtPdc11oiD3O-tQ/s1600/IMG_3137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqqKZkagyB5LUE5NXmMovsBExbXgZgVXSL9at1byQBQHe5QPq-DIo-D11OBEmw_SOLpUkIWKDkKr4klr8irc4vZM18LCjqqQLohMVWReqoJl0PWWEJHueiNjkpkJFZtPdc11oiD3O-tQ/s400/IMG_3137.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100 Fidget Pendants for the 2012 MTV Movie Awards Celebrity Swag Bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I already started the ball rolling on the promoting part. Along with my online Press Releases, I did a couple of interviews with my local newspaper, I know I must have babbled a lot, but I think the reporters got an idea of what I was trying to convey.... at least that's what I read...<br />
<br />
So there you have it... One award show gifting lounge done and under my belt (sorta).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUX8fUPsKYOwfsLbtBKVtNylvrZtBGqEnKvl3b4_sBx-d9DFU2C2mESvgGiq3hEH510NkKhPhzv_ibJFL1QgoRwEon5ptQ1RPvqp0mypsMxNk29cvMDYADEuq_qtIaQ4qNDlY1Hi3UK8/s1600/IMG_2506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUX8fUPsKYOwfsLbtBKVtNylvrZtBGqEnKvl3b4_sBx-d9DFU2C2mESvgGiq3hEH510NkKhPhzv_ibJFL1QgoRwEon5ptQ1RPvqp0mypsMxNk29cvMDYADEuq_qtIaQ4qNDlY1Hi3UK8/s400/IMG_2506.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chainmaille Framed Tree of Life decor to be displayed at the 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>To see a list of all my press releases and what was in the media about Jewelry by Saniki Creations visit my <b><a href="http://sanikicreations.com/Press-Releases" target="_blank">SITE</a>.</b></li>
<li>Find out our<b> <a href="http://sanikicreations.com/information/news" target="_blank">Latest News</a> </b>announcements</li>
</ul>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com1New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-43634122879605153702012-04-19T18:59:00.000-07:002012-04-19T19:01:37.905-07:00Meet Cindy Licenziato of I Adore Life Handmade - Featured ArtistI've been super busy and fell behind on my blogging of my wonderful fellow artists/designers.. so let's just skip my usual long winded intro and get straight to who I want you to get to know today...<br />
<br />
<b>Cindy Licenziato</b> of <b><a href="http://www.iadorelifehandmade.com/" target="_blank">I Adore Life Handmade</a></b>, fellow Jewelry Designer and member of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>. Cindy's one of a kind wirewrapped gemstones and crystal jewelry is definitely the talk of the town.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.iadorelifehandmade.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/theme_images/2053095/minimalistjewelry4.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for crafting/art?</b><br />
When I was thirteen I began trading string necklaces for flowers and art
from my neighborhood friends. I came up with a name for my necklaces from
the last line of a poem I wrote for my class “I adore life.”<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_700869112"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://cache1.bigcartel.com/product_images/55347585/iadorelifeWM22.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.iadorelife.bigcartel.com/product/birthstone-rings" target="_blank">Birthstone Rings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Wish Necklaces, made with a single string strand and a fresh water pearl.
They were tie on, so when they fell off it symbolized your wish going to
come true.
<br />
<br />
<b>Every artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
Organization. One word, because it really helps and gets me going and
ready to create!<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different
things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has
your work changed since you began?</b><br />
When I began it was with simple jewelry, then moved onto bags, and onto
jewelry. Jewelry stuck because its something I really like to do!
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_700869126"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://cache1.bigcartel.com/product_images/56778197/2012ial181.jpg" width="397" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.iadorelife.bigcartel.com/product/truth-necklace" target="_blank">Truth Necklace</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Nature, my family and close friends!<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I have been accepted into <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>, which was very exciting for
me. I've also now gotten accepted to sell at a local boutique, which has
made me very happy!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_700869137"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/57643811/2012ial199new.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.iadorelife.bigcartel.com/product/freda-rock-bracelet" target="_blank">Freda Rock Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
My friends from TAG (<i>The Artisan Group</i>). They are some of the most
talented groupe of people I've ever met!
<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
Making more screen printed shirts with my designs on them! I think it's
the perfect way to spread the love and the message! I'd love to see the
support and work further toward giving back!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxpRucwww2aAU2-q7htW_iOUyHqi-bwg7E5wXCmofKYIAODQkEH1owW_iTu0COyfH3DaXMFuDdjF30FQod5uDDpnd9rzlh_JjM1RlKNCZV2EfJjX20IU8n7in9YzctGFTEg1mkNSTyZ0/s1600/cindy+licenziato+iadoreapparel7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxpRucwww2aAU2-q7htW_iOUyHqi-bwg7E5wXCmofKYIAODQkEH1owW_iTu0COyfH3DaXMFuDdjF30FQod5uDDpnd9rzlh_JjM1RlKNCZV2EfJjX20IU8n7in9YzctGFTEg1mkNSTyZ0/s640/cindy+licenziato+iadoreapparel7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I am a mother of one sweet little girl. She takes up a whole lot of my
time, just the way I like it! Other than her, it's work, class, and
jewerly making for me.
<br />
<br />
<b>Where are you displaying or selling your craft/art?</b><br />
I'm selling online at my <a href="http://www.iadorelife.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">BigCartel</a> site and in a local boutique, <i>Beadz
Boutique</i>!
<br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at a physical store. How many hours per week do you
spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
Creative: almost all the time. Business take up a good chuck of my
mornings. I'd have to say hour per week are around 25.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start
business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Know what you want and stick to it. Don't be afraid to be who you are.
Cliche but it motivates and works!
<br />
<br />
<i>"I specialize in providing inspiration all over the place. Recently adding
apparel to the list of things available online, I adore life Handmade is
just happy to be spreading the LOVE. All of I adore life Handmade’s
products are hand crafted and designed to inspire; To just give the
overall feel of joy! Happiness is Healthy!" </i>~ Cindy Licenziato<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
Thank you Cindy! Yes Happiness is Healthy!!! Be sure to check out all of Cindy's sites below!<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.iadorelifehandmade.com/" target="_blank"><b>Website</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.iadorelifehandmade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b>Blog</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/iadorelifehandmade" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.twitter.com/iadorelife" target="_blank"><b>Twitter</b></a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-48590371782325314002012-04-10T12:27:00.000-07:002012-04-10T12:27:03.868-07:00Meet Diane Perry of Catcophony Wearable Art - Featured Artist"<b>Wearable Art</b>"... I love hearing those two little words. To me, anyone can make jewelry, but to make jewelry into art is another story... Art you can wear.. Wearable Art.<br />
<br />
Today I am pleased to introduce to you <b>Diane Perry</b> of <b><a href="http://www.catcophony.com/" target="_blank">Catcophony - Wearable Art</a>.</b> A fellow member of <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b></i>, Diane's vision of unique jewelry designs handmade with an array of metals, stones, clay and glass has peaked interest from all over. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.catcophony.com/cart/images/bg8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://www.catcophony.com/cart/images/bg8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art? </b><br />
I
have been engaged in art since I was very young. My mother’s side of
the family are both trained and untrained artists-mostly painters in oil
or watercolor mediums. So since a young age I was encouraged to pursue
all forms of art. In High School I was one of the artists for our
school’s literary and arts magazine. In College and graduate I did not
pursue art as a vocation (went into the Health Sciences), but I always
found time to learn a new craft. I really like to make things—so
everything from stenciling to basket weaving to painting—kept me out of
trouble and fed the right side of my brain. I found Martha Stewart
Living and through her magazines and books she really showed me the
variety of things one can make.
<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
That depends on whether you mean first piece of art or first piece of
jewelry. One of the first art pieces I clearly remember was a plaster
fresco painted with tempera paint I made from scratch….jewelry, was a
pair of earrings in silver and gemstones. They were very rough- style
wise. I realized they needed significant fine tuning and found a number
of great videos on the internet and watched-watched-watched and
practiced-practiced-practiced. I am a very visual learner, so those
artisans who shared the basic techniques were such a blessing!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1353188137"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--499_product_1882412485_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/catcophony/3349231/copper_dragonfly_pendant/handmade/jewelry/pendants/precious_metal_clay" target="_blank">Copper Dragonfly Pendant</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
I sketch a lot of ideas, but frankly refer to my ‘idea book’
infrequently. Most often I sit at my bench and see what hits me and
start fiddling with combinations. Sometimes I will see a technique for
another art form or craft and say, “how would that be in copper or on
copper or….” I really love to take something developed for another
craft and morph it into a unique piece of jewelry. I really love
sitting with someone who has asked me to create something for them and
talking through our joint vision of a piece. The greatest joy is when
you show them the final piece and theirs eyes light up and dance with
excitement.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend
to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that
resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I
love silver and wanted to work in sterling. But it can make for an
expensive trial and error experience—more so now with the silver prices
than when I started 5 years ago—so I purchased copper and practiced and
tried out ideas with it. I found I loved the outcome in copper and have
gravitated to working more in that metal than any other. I still work
in silver, but not as much as copper. Which is probably serendipitous
since if you spit in any direction at most shows, the internet—you hit a
jewelry artist. You have to find a niche and build on it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1353188157"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--499_product_218459225_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/catcophony/3242730/brown_lip_shell_bracelet/handmade/jewelry/bracelets/shell_pearl" target="_blank">Brown Lip Shell Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
What doesn’t? The usual items such as nature and organic items are
focal to a lot of my work, but more often than not it comes out of left
field.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Thanks to the amazing group of talented and sharing artisans of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i> I have found both a nurturing environment to learn and
grow and an extraordinarily supportive group of people. This may not
sound like a goal, but when you have a small business and pretty much
are it-CEO, CFO, lackey—you don’t have anyone to ‘bounce’ ideas off of
and questions. It also is tough to find and disseminate all information
that is out there. But this group is my ‘board of directors and in the
short time I have been a member I have learned volumes. Thanks to The
Artisan Group my jewelry was recently featured in the GBK Oscars Gift
Lounge preceding the <i>Academy Awards</i> and will also be at the <i>MTV Movie
Awards</i> later this year. Who would have thought my jewelry would go
“Hollywood!”<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1353188146"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--499_product_1801515627_3_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/Catcophony/4335193/Oscar_earrings_in_copper/Jewelry/Earrings/Other_Metals" target="_blank">Oscar Earrings in Copper</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
It may seem a cliché to say Martha Stewart, but she really put
crafting/DIY at the forefront and frankly made it cool to make your own
things. Donna Kato gave me inspiration to try not only polymer clay,
but sculpting—something I never felt I could do—and showed me the myriad
of things one could do with this wonderful medium. Hadar Jacobson
opened me to the possibilities with metal clays and shared her
experiences and techniques. From a purely art perspective, I am an avid
lover of all of Monet’s impressionist paintings. There is an elegant
simplicity that resonates with me.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
My overall long-term goal is to grow my business so I can buy more
tools and gadgets—I admit it, my name is Diane and I am a tool/gadget
junkie—and take tons of classes at some of my favorite folk-art
schools. There are so many techniques and crafts I would like to try
and to learn.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1353188173"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--499_product_528014757_thumb_large.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="389" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/catcophony/3637466/agate___carnelian_necklace/handmade/jewelry/necklaces/gemstone" target="_blank">Agate & Carnelian Necklace</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I love to
garden and here in NE Georgia we have a very welcoming climate for
that. I also enjoy reading, golf, antiquing, bird watching, and hiking.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I sell both online on <b><a href="http://catcophony.artfire.com/" target="_blank">ArtFire</a></b> and Supadupa and at art shows.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1353188182"><img border="0" height="369" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--499_product_862157559_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/catcophony/2986741/antique_silver___turquoise_dragonfly_ring/handmade/jewelry/rings/metal" target="_blank">Antique Silver & Turquoise Dragonfly Ring</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I try to divide each day between the fun of creating/making and the
mundane side. You have to grow what you are making and you have to grow
the business, too. During tax season, the mundane gets much more time.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b> Learn all you can about the art/craft you want to pursue and then pick a niche within it to expand and make<br />
your own.
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
Thank you Diane for letting us get to know you and your beautiful work! Be sure to visit and follow Diane and her "Wearable Art" at the sites below.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://www.catcophony.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://catcophony.artfire.com/" target="_blank">Artfire</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Catcophony" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://twitter.com/catcophony" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny2.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com3New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-8493151092795397132012-04-05T10:54:00.000-07:002012-04-05T10:54:00.703-07:00Meet Heidi Kingman of My Bead Therapy - Featured ArtistToday I am thrilled to feature the talented <b>Heidi Kingman</b> of <b><a href="http://www.mybeadtherapy.com/" target="_blank">My Bead Therapy</a></b>. A fellow member of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>, don't let Heidi's company name fool you. Her jewelry designs, incorporating metal fabrications, wire wrapping and gorgeous semiprecious stones, are one of my personal favorites. Heidi's <u><b>Signature Wire Wrapped Birdhouses</b></u> are unique, stylish and let's just say... nothing can compare to them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nA_uCox9w-gNIgEEjMijMm2KdsYuQCwL7AI7DqO2_CJ4Wec0k0FpoiwMNyDXGZXBUhy907atR5CgVDGTKQu1t3m6BN8hoLhz5c2t3jrMCK_2aKHyqAsVlnjhkuENDIq80ferxQybSxc/s1600/heidi+kingman+banner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nA_uCox9w-gNIgEEjMijMm2KdsYuQCwL7AI7DqO2_CJ4Wec0k0FpoiwMNyDXGZXBUhy907atR5CgVDGTKQu1t3m6BN8hoLhz5c2t3jrMCK_2aKHyqAsVlnjhkuENDIq80ferxQybSxc/s640/heidi+kingman+banner.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2yvMIckAQ90BwXWL0_PPED4xSTYLqPZPuixPkM8bPeaj3gWJP688JrKqtvJ2P_Jp4xUKYxcyDPQ_HKET6B9XPqSYTdLM26PIm8SK5zKF-u-XzXWvSNf1QgCswWBOuWtXOE1CvP2FXF8/s1600/Heidi+Kingman+Current+Pic+of+Heidi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2yvMIckAQ90BwXWL0_PPED4xSTYLqPZPuixPkM8bPeaj3gWJP688JrKqtvJ2P_Jp4xUKYxcyDPQ_HKET6B9XPqSYTdLM26PIm8SK5zKF-u-XzXWvSNf1QgCswWBOuWtXOE1CvP2FXF8/s400/Heidi+Kingman+Current+Pic+of+Heidi.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heidi Kingman, My Bead Therapy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
About 4 and a half years ago I was invited to a home party in my neighborhood and learned that my next door neighbor, Lisa, made jewelry with natural semi-precious gemstones. I was really smitten with the stones. She invited me over to “play in her beads.” As soon as I ran my hands through that first bin of stones, I was hooked!<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
I do! That first day I made a multi-layer treasure-style necklace with a broken shard of carved jade and mixed stones that I dug for in what became known as the “beetle box.” The box of beads was all the mixed up “extras” that were left over after Lisa made her beautifully coordinated pieces. As I was digging through it, I reached for an interesting mottled looking bead (it looked like brown snowflake jasper) and discovered that it was some sort of beetle carapace that had probably been accidentally strung onto a strand of beads. It sure didn’t look like anything native!
Anyway, I laid out an eclectic medley of gemstones, glass, and silver beads. I then made a wiggly bail for the jade shard out of a headpin (my first “wire work!”) and strung it all together. Lisa showed me how to use the crimp tubes and crimping pliers to finish it off. So, the fact that I have now become entirely obsessed with jewelry design is basically all Lisa’s fault! (Well, maybe a bit that beetle’s fault, too!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqhIuDeWT2L5XTiq-BjJuOpb4ZWG36DgcTSpNmWvK1xcNKUEUtRw_aSUmwbdJRK0kUD822sHVzEr3UOBCeF1WW17ETMSNz-XcWkusqYEQGc4PWDY-XsbEJomt_0HLkMfBEGTtvElFUOo/s1600/Heidi+Kingman+First+Design+by+MyBeadTherapy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqhIuDeWT2L5XTiq-BjJuOpb4ZWG36DgcTSpNmWvK1xcNKUEUtRw_aSUmwbdJRK0kUD822sHVzEr3UOBCeF1WW17ETMSNz-XcWkusqYEQGc4PWDY-XsbEJomt_0HLkMfBEGTtvElFUOo/s640/Heidi+Kingman+First+Design+by+MyBeadTherapy.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heidi Kingman's First Design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
Most of the time I just get an idea of a technique I want to try, or pick up a stone I want to wrap or use, and just see where it takes me. My designs have often built upon each other since new ideas or ways of doing things occur to me as I go. Sometimes I will have things that have ended up next to each other on my desk – combinations of beads, for example – and think, “ooo – that looks cool!” Very rarely I will actually sketch things out to come up with a design. It is usually when it’s a custom piece and I want the client to pick which general style/design they like best. Not everyone can visualize what I am trying to describe in words, so pictures are much better!<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I have been doing something artsy since I could hold a crayon. Drawing, sculpting in clay, painting, crochet, scrapbooking, photography – you name it, chances are I’ve tried it. Once upon a time I was even a Graphic Arts major. But jewelry was different. It really became a compulsion from the beginning. I don’t know how to describe it really, except that maybe because it incorporates so many of the skills I’ve used in all of those other areas, it just never gets old for me. It is an absolutely endless medium. I basically started with simple stringing … well, actually my designs were always really detailed and complex (even when simple probably would have been better!). Now I am totally smitten by all things metal and wire, and am starting to pull my love of stones, pearls, and multi-media materials back into my metalwork. And I just bought a torch a few weeks ago … oh, the possibilities!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1939280400"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72771_product_1063739531_2_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/MyBeadTherapy/4565933/Tribal_Cuff_Copper_Multistone_Bracelet/Jewelry/Bracelets/Wire_Wrapped" target="_blank">Tribal Cuff Multi-Stone Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I am inspired by old architectural elements like wrought iron, things in the garden, animals, graphic design prints, and even color combinations I see in furniture catalogs. Often I see something that I wonder if I can “recreate” in metal, wire, and beads. I loved the one sculpture class I took in college. I think sometimes when I am making jewelry I am really making mini “sculptures” that happen to also be worn as jewelry.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
This is all still so new for me that nearly everything I am doing is a work in progress! I am learning to take better photos of my jewelry, but I still think there is lots of room for improvement. I am also starting to settle into a more defined “voice” or “style” to my work – though I haven’t figured out how to describe it! I think that would sure help. And I am slowly seeing a teensy uptick in sales to people other than my close friends and family – so my designs are getting out there. I have now even made three international sales!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstMf70_6LHt3NcgxpODmleFv3Yg4RgH0wuBeTKZ1BB5LmIYokApNqRjuWM1R2qi9DVxEyUaY1WB9hMO-sS259clbzw2tH-PrIL3L-rwl3UNUL8Ux8jxQYtu3CBzsyX1Mw7969nXoJDkQ/s1600/Heidi+Kingman+Garden+Birdhouse+Necklace+by+MyBeadTherapy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstMf70_6LHt3NcgxpODmleFv3Yg4RgH0wuBeTKZ1BB5LmIYokApNqRjuWM1R2qi9DVxEyUaY1WB9hMO-sS259clbzw2tH-PrIL3L-rwl3UNUL8Ux8jxQYtu3CBzsyX1Mw7969nXoJDkQ/s640/Heidi+Kingman+Garden+Birdhouse+Necklace+by+MyBeadTherapy.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden Birdhouse Necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
Oh, this is a hard one for me. I have met so many incredibly talented artisans over the last couple of years through online social sites, the <i>Weekend with the Wiremasters</i> classes I attended a couple of years ago (the only classes I’ve taken, so far), my participation in<i> Lori Anderson’s 5th Bead Soup Blog Party</i>, and now <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>. I can probably more easily list the styles of art that speak to me most: macro photography and paintings of plants and flowers, architectural elements and photos of old ruins, wrought iron, and Japanese architecture and interior design, Japanese paintings of landscapes and trees, Talavera pottery, and mid-century poster art. I think the common denominators are the emphasis on lines, graphics, and color, and a good dose of roughened edges where the artist’s “hands” are visible. To me, the beauty in these styles is the honest nature, the detail, and the celebration of “imperfection.”<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
I’ve been meeting my little short-term goals – like selling enough to keep my studio stocked with enough wire, sheet metal, beads and tools to continue to expand my skills. Now I would like to move toward my mid-term goal of bringing in some extra money that I can use to enable my kids to do some of the extracurricular activities they dream about, and to put some money aside to grow a college nest egg for each of them. Then in the long-run, I would love my jewelry biz to give my hubby and I the excuse to travel around the country to various large art festivals (nearby fantastic golf courses, I’m told) and supplement our retirement that way! The sky-high dream? I would love to own a B&B home/studio where I can host jewelry-making retreats with visiting artisan jewelry instructors. That would be awesome! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1939280412"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72771_product_1085041057_thumb_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/mybeadtherapy/2785603/couture_suede___jasper_happiness_watch/handmade/jewelry/watches/gemstone" target="_blank">Couture Suede Jasper Happiness Watch</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I really don’t know what spare time is! I work fulltime as an attorney. I have three little kids and an enormously patient, but busy, hubby. And now in the last 5 years since I’ve been making jewelry, I’ve suddenly added jewelry design, blogging, social networking, website design/maintaining (from a template), and loads of learning about both the artistic and business side of things. Somehow I do manage to still get out and garden, cook, dabble in photography, etc. I just don’t sleep much.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
Currently I have shop on <a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/MyBeadTherapy" target="_blank"><b>ArtFire</b></a> and I also take custom orders on my main website, <a href="http://www.mybeadtherapy.com/"><b>www.mybeadtherapy.com</b></a>. I try to do a couple of art shows a year, also. I’m waiting to hear what happens with this year’s applications. I would love to have my pieces carried in boutiques and galleries again, too. The economy has been especially tough on small shops, so the accounts I had faded away.<br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I work full-time during the week. So I try to spend a few hours a week during the evenings on computer-type activities (social media, applications, shop updates, blog, etc.) and then I tend to squeeze in studio time weekend-warrior style. I am usually up until the wee hours on Friday and Saturday nights because it is really my only time to totally immerse myself and be free of distractions. I know if I could devote more time to my biz, it would likely thrive at a much faster pace. It’s a constant source of frustration for me because I am just one of those people that wants to put all of myself into everything I do – which means between family, work, and my micro-biz, I’m pretty well maxed out!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1939280422"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72771_product_1188242240_thumb_large.jpg" width="425" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/MyBeadTherapy/4121929/Wire_Weave_Bicolor_Sterling_Spiral_Column_Earrings/Jewelry/Earrings/Wire_Wrapped" target="_blank">Wire Weave Bicolor Sterling Spiral Column Earrings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Join forums or teams or support groups with people who are at all levels of the spectrum from beginners to experts. You will learn more than I can even list here. I have been completely blown away by the support, guidance, and encouragement I’ve found in <i>The Artisan Group</i>. It is honestly beyond belief and I am ever so grateful and honored to have been accepted into such an outstanding group of talented and generous people.<br />
<br />
Besides that, I guess I would say try to ignore that naysayer in your head. Take a deep breath and put one foot in front of the other. Baby steps. Just set your goals and move forward. It’s not a race, so whatever pace works for you is just fine.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
Thank you so much Heidi!!! Be sure to check out Heidi's "Wearable Art" at her sites below!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://www.mybeadtherapy.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/MyBeadTherapy" target="_blank">Artfire</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/HeidiMyBeadTherapy" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://twitter.com/MyBeadTherapy" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://mybeadtherapy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
 
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-2087408719383352792012-03-27T10:53:00.000-07:002012-03-27T10:53:16.150-07:00Exclusive Celebrity Gift Bag to Tom CruiseWho loves gifts... Celebrities do. I am thrilled to say that I have sent off three of my <b>Chainmaille</b> creations to be included in an exclusive <b><i>Celebrity Gift Bag to actor Tom Cruise and his family</i></b>. This opportunity wouldn't be possible without my membership with <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>. I am so utterly grateful for them and all the support and talented artists that I've been learning from.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">So the Gifts will be delivered to the Cruise Family in April... and this is what I've sent</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">For Katie Holmes:</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2124484775"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.sanikicreations.com/image/cache/data/watch%20faces/katie2-1-475x475.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/chainmaille_category/chainmaille_bracelets/B026_Katie" target="_blank">Chainmaille Banded Bracelet Watch</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
For Tom Cruise:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2124484765"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.sanikicreations.com/image/cache/data/bracelets/halfprince1-475x475.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/chainmaille_category/chainmaille_bracelets/B025_HalfPrince" target="_blank">3in1 Half Persian Chainmaille Bracelet in Stainless Steel</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />and for Suri Cruise:<div>
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7hFygolFlC1CtpjyHUV7MExZdsfG2PlNqAZPvJ_fN8htVzB5BNcYeXDUckRWhqJdmoLvGnPlEu-EszAs-SJ3TwsWSaOAl78FpNstF0lwraDm4rHMJx33oNF1MCJ-62Dpd66HcAd4RWo/s1600/suri-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7hFygolFlC1CtpjyHUV7MExZdsfG2PlNqAZPvJ_fN8htVzB5BNcYeXDUckRWhqJdmoLvGnPlEu-EszAs-SJ3TwsWSaOAl78FpNstF0lwraDm4rHMJx33oNF1MCJ-62Dpd66HcAd4RWo/s400/suri-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
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<div>
I've also did a couple of Press Releases online... Check them out on the links below:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.wireservice.ca/index.php?module=News&func=display&sid=7743" target="_blank">Wire Services Canada</a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://onlineprnews.com/news/216911-1332745582-jewelry-by-saniki-creations-to-contribute-to-exclusive-celebrity-gift-bag-for-tom-cruise.html" target="_blank">Online PR Media</a> <br /><br />
Now to continue working on those MTV Movie Awards Swag Bag gifts....<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.91720949.1685924 -122.996173 49.251579400000004 -122.838245tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-80176497497833985562012-03-26T16:22:00.000-07:002012-03-26T16:22:59.688-07:00Meet Carolyn Moran of Care More Creations - Featured ArtistJewelry techniques... Most jewelry designers I know go through a stage where they experiment and try various techniques (or skills) before deciding on what they want to settle on. Some do Metalsmithing, some do that crazy playing with fire and glass called Lampworking, or there's Polymer Clay (grown up version of playdoh), or even stick to all things Crystals and Stones. There's probably more.. I just can't think of others right now.<br />
<br />
I've dabbled in most techniques, took a course here or there, but my love is still Chainmaille... Nothing beats getting what seems to be miles of wire, coiling it with a power drill and cutting them up to make those itty bitty rings, then connecting them one at a time. People have told me it's amazing how patient I am to do this... Yes, I have patience for it. People have asked since I play with wire why not do some Wire Wrapped Jewelry. With that.. I look at them straight in the eye and say... I have absolutely no patience to do that.. my wire wrapping looks like a complete mess.<br />
<br />
So with all that being said.. I am thrilled to introduce you to <b>Carolyn Moran</b>, Wire Wrapped Jewelry Artist extraordinaire! Carolyn is the owner of <b><a href="http://www.caremorecreations.com/" target="_blank">Care More Creations</a></b> and fellow member of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>. Carolyn's work in Wire Wrapped Natural Gemstone Jewelry is breathtaking. Now here's a person with patience!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.caremorecreations.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="84" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9327931.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I never realized my love for creating jewelry until I discovered a cute little bead shop about 4 years ago. The owner was creating a pendant using a jasper stone and wire. I was in awe and decided to give it a try. I bought my supplies that day from her and experimented for a few weeks making pendants for me, my family and friends. I really haven't stopped making them since.<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
I remember that first piece I made...I still have it in my jewelry box to remind me where I started! The reason I never attempted to sell it is because it is a special piece of coral that I found while on my honeymoon while walking on a beach in Belize. Many times I have picked it up, thinking I should re-wrap it to my current style, but every time I end up putting it back in it's resting place. It is more symbolic to me than just any piece of jewelry.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_211641016"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.251029445.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75990302/wire-wrapped-pendant-peach-snakeskin" target="_blank">Pendant - Peach Snakeskin Jasper</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
The entire process is so much fun. The first step is the hunt for the perfect gemstones via two of my favorite pastimes...shopping and nature walks! I enjoy supporting various local and online bead and rock shops and have so much fun browsing. It is also very rewarding to discover Mother Nature's beautiful natural jewels, whether along a walk while home in Alaska or on the beaches of Belize where I spend some time in the winter. Each individual gemstone then inspires my design. The color of the wire, the curves and swirls of the wire setting and the little baubles I add enhance each stone's personality. The stone "talks" to me. My creative process guarantees that the customer will have truly unique, one-of-a kind jewelry.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
When I started creating wire wrapped pendants, I followed instructions from a couple tutorials that I found online. I bought a few books as well. As time went on I discovered ways to individualize each piece, instead of the same cookie-cutter style that I did my first few months. I started to let the stone determine everything. That is what makes my pendants so much fun to create. I don't know how each one is going to turn out until I am finally satisfied with it. I have always been attracted to calming swirls and blending of colors in a natural balance and rhythm. Bringing this softness to the hard element of stones, along with the shiny element of wire brings a passion out in my personality where I can create truly unique jewelry that are feminine, yet dramatic.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_211641025"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.305827305.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91338453/wire-wrapped-necklace-mabe-pearl-shell" target="_blank">Mabe Pearl Shell Pendant</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I live in Alaska, and my natural setting really inspires me. I love nature! I live in a log cabin along the Kenai River and it is an everyday occurance to see wandering moose, soaring eagles, splashing salmon, humbling mountains and even an occasional bear and her cubs. Also my love of fashion inspires me. I am not particularly a "bling" girl. I love natural stones and sometimes it is difficult to find just the right jewelry to wear with my simple wardrobe. As a business owner, I try to create natural jewelry to appeal to different tastes, in different colors, sizes and styles. My family also inspires me. Their constant support and love keeps my life in check and balance.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I never had big goals when I first started. My business definitely started out as a hobbie, but when my family and friends nudged me into selling them, it became more of a challenge. Taking that initial leap into the Etsy world was exciting, and since then I haven't looked back. I find it very motivating to be self-employed and successful. To actually be considered an artisan on a national level, and not just to family and friends is also rewarding. When <i>Valerie Guerrero</i>, founder of <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b> asked me to join, I was incredibly honored. Becoming part of this fabulous team of fellow, like-minded artisans and business owners is probably the most rewarding achievement of all. I have learned so much, not only about my craft and business, but also myself. Being a member of The Artisan Group has definitely given me the confidence to take my shop to a whole new level, and having a team that cheers each other on is truly amazing.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_211641043"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.278220209.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83867517/wire-wrapped-pendant-gold-filigree-wire" target="_blank">Gold Filigree Wire Necklace</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
I have so many favorite artists...too many to mention. But my absolute favorite artists are those who truly have talent, whether God-given or trained in their skill. They are an inspiration. I admire those who can create unique item from scratch, and not just assemble a product with store-bought supplies. I also admire those crafters with a keen eye for color, balance and what is trending at the moment.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
In the future I would love the notariety on a more national level and get more exposure for my jewelry. I am so excited to be included in <b>The MTV Movie Awards gift lounge</b> presented by GBK Productions. As a member of <i>The Artisan Group</i> my wire wrapped pendants will be included in 100 swag bags distributed to celebrities, along with a couple pendants on display during the event It is going to be an amazing journey. I also would like to branch out into the wholesale market.<br />
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<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I love spending time with my family and friends. My husband and I enjoy fishing and the great outdoors. My daughter and granddaughter are my pride and joy, and any time I can spend watching them succeed and grow and be happy...well, it doesn't get any better! I also enjoy the quiet moments of lone time when I can read, reflect or just relax.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_211641052"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.294577245.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88301775/black-agate-onyx-wire-wrapped-dangle" target="_blank">Black Agate Onyx Earrings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I currently have online shops in both <b>Etsy</b> (<b><a href="http://www.caremore.etsy.com/">http://www.caremore.etsy.com</a></b>) and <b>Artfire</b> (<a href="http://www.caremore.artfire.com/"><b>http://www.caremore.artfire.com</b></a>) Right now I also exclusively sell by jewelry in the legendary <i>Rojo Lounge</i> in Belize. I have occasionally sold at craft shows, which I find a lot of fun.<br />
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<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I am sure we can all agree...way too much time on the business side! Making is so much more fun than selling. I would say that it is roughly 50/50 because I am presently taking some extra time to learn the marketing end of it. It is very overwhelming, but hopefully soon I will be able to grasp it all, and utilize it to gain enough popularity so that the jewelry starts to sell itself. Then I can spend less time marketing and more time creating.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
There is so much that I have learned over the past 4 years. I would say my best advice is to create a business plan, learn as much as you can about marketing and make sure you are up for the challenge. Because being an artist is a passion, but selling your work is a whole different ballgame, especially if you are on your own with no marketing help. Also, brand yourself from the beginning with a cohesive "feel" throughout your business labels. I wish I would have....the hundreds and hundreds of old "ugly" business cards I have stored in my closet are proof! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you so much Carolyn for letting us get to know you a little better. Be sure to visit Carolyn's sites:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.caremorecreations.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/caremore" target="_blank">Etsy</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.caremore.artfire.com/" target="_blank">Artfire</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/caremorecreations" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/caremore4" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://caremorecreations.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1790284 -122.95965750000002 49.241143400000006 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-70045623959631460012012-03-19T13:25:00.000-07:002012-03-19T13:25:06.663-07:00Meet Peggy Paliotta of Starlet Glam Bath & Body - Featured ArtistBath Products... We all need them as we all use them. But did you know that most commercial based bath products are not that good for you. With skin sensitivities and allergies to chemicals, it's really great to know that there are alternatives.<br />
<br />
Today I would like to introduce <b>Peggy Paliotta</b> of <b><i><a href="http://www.etsy.com/StarletGlamBathBody">Starlet Glam Bath and Body</a></i></b>, a fellow member of <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/">The Artisan Group</a></b>, Peggy's products are <b>100%</b> Natural and Free from detergents, SLS and sulfates, are Vegan Friendly and my personal favorite... Not Tested On Animals<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9272860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="83" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9272860.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
Growing up, I was always involved in Arts & Crafts. I dabbled in Painting, Graphic Design, Hat Making, Jewelry Design (Polymer Clay). While I enjoyed each craft I felt something was missing. One day I discovered a DIY lip balm article that peaked my interest. The web site also sold soapmaking supplies such as various soap bases and fragrances. Bath & Body products have always been an addiction for me so I knew this would become my passion! <br />
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<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
My first soap experience was making bars with a base called soap noodles. They had to be cooked in a crock pot. While it was fun it didn't turn out as expected. Some batches became burnt and fragrances dissipated. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_559925766"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.298096507.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89157049/valentine-fuchsia-pink-pin-up-girl">Valentine Fuchia Pink Pin Up Girl</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
My creative process varies depending on what products I'm making. For the most part it begins with fragrance, recipe ingredients, color and sometimes a theme name. I love the challenge of having several projects going on at once.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
My craft began with glycerine soaps only. I grew an interest to incorporate a line of Bath and Body Products. My collection now includes Body Butters with Shimmer, Body Creams, Sugar Scrubs, Whipped Cream Soaps, Body Balms, Milk Bath Fizz, Perfume Oils, Specialty Soaps, Lip Balm Shimmer and Mineral Lip Tints. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_559925775"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.273927310.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76502506/milk-bath-goat-milk-bath-fizz-oatmeal">Goat Milk Bath Fizz</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Creating new products, fragrances, theme names and designing my labels. I draw inspiration from Old Hollywood Glamour. I love the famous Bombshells and Burlesque Queens of that era. <br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
In addition to acquiring wholesale accounts, and selling my products at one of the top 5 Gift Shops in L.A. (Handmade Galleries), I'm so excited to be a member of <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/">The Artisan Group</a></i></b>! It's such an inspiration to interact and support other talented artisans who are just as passionate about their craft as I am. The opportunity to gift celebrities and donate to charities is the perfect addition to help grow my business! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_559925784"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.301649293.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61474805/marshmallow-confection-lip-balm-shimmer">Marshmallow Confection Lip Balm</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
Talented members of <i>The Artisan Group</i> as well as the <i>E.F.O.E (Eclectic Friends of Etsy) Team</i> I'm a member of. They both feel like family. <br />
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<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
I'm so excited to announce that Starlet Glam will be represented by <i>The Artisan Group</i> at <b>The MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge</b> in June. Talk about a Glam opportunity! Our Bath & Body products will be gifted to 100 celebrities. Products will include Sugar Scrubs: Almond Cookie and White Truffle Raspberry. Body Creams: Iced Lemon Biscotti, Pink Grapefruit, Red Velvet Cake and Vanilla Champagne. Alo included will be coordinating lip balm shimmers. <br />
<br />
A few other goals I have would be to rent a kiosk/cart space at our popular mall; or to open up my own retail store.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_559925795"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.318020755.jpg" width="375" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92563864/white-truffle-raspberry-sugar-scrub">White Truffle Raspberry Sugar Scrub</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I love hanging out with family and friends, my cat, traveling, shopping, listening to music and going to rock concerts. I'm a Rocker chic! <br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I'm selling my products in my Etsy shop <a href="http://www.starletglambathbody.com/"><b>http://www.starletglambathbody.com</b></a> as well as Studio B Salon & Beauty Boutique, RI and Handmade Galleries in L.A. I also do several juried craft shows throughout the year. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_559925804"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.275341071.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83041754/almond-cookie-perfume-oil-crown-jewel">Almond Cookie Perfume Oil</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I normally spend more time creating. But I try to include a few days per week for the business side. <br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
I would say if you're passionate about your craft to give it a shot. It's a good idea to join groups or forums that relate to your craft where you'll have a lot of opportunities to learn and meet others. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Peggy for taking time to tell us more about you. Be sure to visit Peggy at her sites and check out all her wonderful products.<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b>Shop: <a href="http://www.starletglambathbody.com/">http://www.starletglambathbody.com</a></b></li>
<li><b>Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/StarletGlam">http://www.facebook.com/StarletGlam</a></b></li>
<li><b>Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/StarletGlam">http://twitter.com/StarletGlam</a></b></li>
<li><b>Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/starletglam/">http://pinterest.com/starletglam/</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com6New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1790284 -122.95965750000002 49.241143400000006 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-89435457629498113172012-03-13T10:52:00.000-07:002012-03-13T10:52:44.170-07:00Meet Shara Danziger of Confections by Shara's Paperie - Featured Artist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One thing about me is that I like to see my name in printed on something. Sounds rather vain, but with my name, it's hard to find anything that I can use, especially when it comes to stationery products. However with technology today and some creative vision, we now have the option to get our name printed on practically anything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With that being said, meet <b>Shara Danzinger</b>, the creative force behind <b><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/">Confections by Shara's Paperie</a></b>. A fellow member of <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/">The Artisan Group</a></b></i>, Personalization is Shara's middle name... well not really, but if you want your name on something, Shara is the gal to go to. From your stationery (such as notepads, labels, invitations) all the way to some really neat gift ideas (drink coasters, plates, pillow cases, IPad cases), Shara's shop is a place to check out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/372957_134282679936309_212912516_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art? </b><br />
I am a graphic designer and always have been…I just didn’t know what it was called when I was a kid. I was always in love with color, fonts, patterns and layouts. <br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made? </b><br />
I don’t remember the first design that I ever did, though I think my mom does! The first product that I designed was very exciting and I did that when I was about 9 and got my hands on paint your own pottery. Spent what seemed like forever choosing the colors and the pattern.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1291318267"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/productfeature/SPCASE76.jpg" width="253" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/products/personalized-gifts/black-white-pink-and-green-geometric-pattern-personalized-phone-case-spc">Personalized IPhone Case</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
My process really can be described as just jumping in with both feet. My best work is done when I pick up the pencil or start on the computer and go. When I attempt to be organized and methodical with my designs I am never as happy with the end result.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
My work now is much more complex and sophisticated then when I started my company about 7.5 years ago. As the company has grown my skills have grown with it which has been a great experience. Though I have to admit that now I cringe at some of the early stuff.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1291318278"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/productfeature/SPPC46.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/products/personalized-gifts/pops-purple-pink-green-blue-and-yellow-flowers-and-spirals-personalized-">Personalized Pillow Case</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I get inspired by just about anything. That sounds silly, but if I see a pretty color in a dress my mind will start whirling where I can use that color. If I happen to come across some old wallpaper with an intricate pattern that is a great starting point for a new pattern for me. Basically the world around me is full of everything that inspires me; color, pattern, texture so it is just a matter of looking.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work? </b><br />
My goals around my work are centered around growing the company. It has been very exciting to be in a position to find new products and then create designs and patterns to put on them. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1291318288"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/productfeature/AH46INV.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/products/invitations/ah46inv">Children's Invitations</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why? </b><br />
My favorite artist has always been Monet. I remember going to the museum with my grandmother when I was a child and her introducing me to his work. While I am a graphic designer, not a painter, his work is just so beautiful that I can always find something new and thrilling when I look at it. <br />
<br />
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I admit that spare time is hard to come by between the business, the kids and the husband. But I do love to just hang out with my kids and the husband and just have family down time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1291318297"><img border="0" height="122" src="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/productfeature/ST70RA.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/products/paper-accessories/st70ra">Personalized Address Labels</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
All my work is sold through my online website at <a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/">www.shopconfections.com</a><br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side? </b><br />
This question depends on the week! We also do many custom projects for clients which I love so that takes up creative time. On a “regular” week I would say it is about 40% creative and 50% business.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1291318307"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/productfeature/AHPL42.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/products/personalized-gifts/green-and-blue-retro-car-personalized-melamine-plate-ahpl42">Personalized Melamine Plates</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Of course love what you do and be ready to devote everything to it. This is not something that you can commit to fully if you would rather be doing something else.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you so much Shara! Be sure to visit Shara at these sites:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/confectionsbysharaspaperie">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><a href="http://twitter.com/sharaspaperie"><b>Twitter</b></a></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-18754053930426883172012-03-08T15:35:00.000-08:002012-03-08T15:35:45.976-08:00Meet Stephanie Rountree of EdenSong Essentials Skin Care - Featured ArtistToday's Featured Artist is <b>Stephanie Rountree</b> of <b><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/index.html" target="_blank">EdenSong Essentials</a></b>. A fellow member of <i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i>, Stephanie's Organic Skin Care Products are <u>100% Chemical Preservative Free</u>, and is always food grade edible... very cool...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/index.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.edensongskincare.com/uploads/3/8/3/7/3837363/1325696203.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
My passion (read: obsession) began when I became pregnant with my first child in the 70s, and I went into overdrive about everything I consumed, including what my skin absorbed. I had an "ahha" moment asking myself, "What is my skin eating?"<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Yes, it was a simple cocoa butter formulation for my "ever-increasing" belly during my pregnancy! lol<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1267976183"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.edensongskincare.com/uploads/3/8/3/7/3837363/8303826.jpg?6290807" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/facial-care-products.html" target="_blank">Empress Elixir Anti Aging Serum</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
It starts with the "need" -- my need or a client's need - and I dive into research to determine the proper carrier oils/butters, herbs and essential oils that will make the improvements for the particular need.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I started with carrier oils, butters, herbs and essentials oils and pretty much stuck to them, with some variations with extracts, but I haven't changed much from the basics. I've tried alternatives and each time have come back to the basics, which really, REALLY work. :)<br />
<br />
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
My clients! They tell me what they need and it makes me want to be better!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1267976193"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.edensongskincare.com/uploads/3/8/3/7/3837363/6277993.jpg?9511517" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/body-care-products.html" target="_blank">Silk Suga' Body Scrub</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Most recently my products are being displayed at the <i>2012 GBK Academy Awards/Oscars Luxury Gift Lounge</i> in association with <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b> and they are being distributed to 100 of the celebrities. I was also part of an international Monoi de Tahiti contest and among the 81 finalists.<br />
<br />
As excited as I am about the above goals, creating products that really work and making my clients happy are truly my most important goals. :) On that note, I'd like to share one of my favorite stories about how one of my products was created. Throughout the years I've had serious issues with shooting legs pains during my menstrual cycle. About 10 years ago, I'd had enough and went into "chemistry mode" and came up with my current formula. I applied my new formula to my legs. I didn't notice anything . . . at all . . . until about 30 minutes later, and it was SO obvious, I got up and did a dance~! I had NO PAIN! lol YA~! Thus, the name . . No PainYa! Silly, perhaps, but it worked AND still works!!!<br />
<br />
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
No one in particular, but I love checking out other formulators to see what they make, because it always gets my creative juices going.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
I would love to see my products being used on a large scale around the world!<br />
I would also love to be on Oprah. lol Does that sound silly? Perhaps, but I believe once she tries my products, she will LOVE them and that would be a huge endorsement.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1267976206"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.edensongskincare.com/uploads/3/8/3/7/3837363/8478117.jpg?9311334" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/facial-care-products.html" target="_blank">Zit Zapper - Blemish Gel</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
lol - I don't have much spare time. I do a lot a research, which I love to do, but I also love gardening, yoga, photography, bicycling and time with family.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
2012 GBK Academy Awards/Oscars Luxury Gift Lounge in association with The Artisan Group and I also have an online store: http://www.edensongskincare.com<br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
Most of my time is spent on the creative side, filling orders or researching; however, I have been spending more time marketing lately, so it's about 60/40 at this point.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Be your passion and it will guide you.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Stephanie! Be sure to visit Stephanie and check out all her wonderful skin care products at:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.edensongskincare.com/index.html" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/edensongessentials" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/edensong" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com9New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-62665713726256599612012-03-06T07:00:00.098-08:002012-03-06T07:00:05.272-08:00Meet Sarah Struett of Four Black Paws - Featured ArtistWho has pets? Specifically dogs? My best friend growing up was the 4 legged furry kind. He was a mutt, not sure what breed he was, but he had this weird waterproof fur which was just a chore trying to give him a bath. My fondest memory of my dog was how he would walk me to school and when school was over, there he was waiting for me to go home. I never knew what he did during the time in between, until one day, think it was a Saturday,I heard him scratching at the door to be let into the house and he brought home his "girlfriend".<br />
<br />
Back then, there wasn't a lot of variety of things you can get for your furry best friend. Basic primary coloured collars and leashes. Not very exciting to me. <br />
<br />
But now we have variety and I'm thrilled to introduce <b>Sarah Struett</b> of <b><a href="http://www.4blackpaws.com/" target="_blank">Four Black Paws</a></b> to you today. A fellow member of <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b>, Sarah's <i>Handmade Dog Collars</i>, <i>Bed Covers</i> and <i>ID Tags</i> are the perfect accessory for your best friend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9424588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="52" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9424588.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I have always loved doing arts and crafts; I always felt it was something I was good at. When I was young, my friends and I were always looking for ways to make a buck. I remember making all sorts of crafts to sell in little stands on the side of the road just like lemonade stands. I never really did anything with my love for crafts until December 2010 when I decided to try my hand at makind dog products. At the time I was teaching in a very low socioeconomic area of Southwest Michigan that was so in need of money that they were doing staff cuts in the middle of the year. Since I was a newer teacher, my name was on that list and I knew that if I were to be laid off I wasn't going to sit at home and do nothing. That is when my love for dogs gave me the outlet to help myself. I figured, with all of the money I spend on fancy collars for my dogs, why not make them myself! And that is where things took off.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989767"><img border="0" height="201" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.251793592.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75028158/drifting-blossom-collar-free-us-shipping" target="_blank">Drifting Blossom Collar</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Honestly, I do remember the first collar I made for Four Black Paws and I still have it becuase to me, it wasn't quality enough to sell. <br />
<br />
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
Seeing that my inspiration is my dogs, I would have to say that I am constantly thinking about them when I am creating something new. I love finding fun fabrics that will stand out on my black dog but I also search for fabrics that I know will look good on the manliest of dogs. Anything that is unique or a conversation starter will catch my eye (I've had many spontaneous conversations with people about my dogs collar).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989777"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.252002228.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76286232/michigan-state-university-collar-free-us" target="_blank">Michigan State University Collar</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
Over the past year or so, I have tried many different things. At the very beginning, I was trying all different kinds of ways to put my collars together. I went through about 3 or 4 different styles before I found the one that I liked the best. Now that I have that process down, I am adding in different things to expand my line of collars such as adding martingale type collars, thicker collars and collars with a variety of different fabrics. I have also tried my hand at other types of pet products like handstamped ID tags and dog crate covers. In time I may add those things to my line again but they aren't something that excite me to make.<br />
<br />
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
My dogs and my love of dogs are, hands down, my inspiration. Without my dog, Leila, I certainly would not have this business. She is the inspiration behind this company and also behind the name of Four Black Paws (she is a black lab).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989787"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.282201181.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84996217/large-elk-antler-dog-chew-lot-e101" target="_blank">Large Elk Antler Dog Chew</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I've hit so many milestones already within the past year; many more than I could have even imagined. My first goal was to sell collars and over the past year I have done that successfully at craft shows, fundraisers and online. Speaking of online, my second goal was to get my products out on the internet for consumers to see. My website is not up to where I want it to be but I am happy that I have my Etsy shop to display my products. Another important goal was to sell wholesale. I have had the opportunity a few times to sell wholesale to a few local places. Handmade and made in the USA seems to be important to people these days and I am a huge advocate of supporting local. Lastly, this wasn't a goal of mine but an opportunity that I was so incredibly honored to get. My collars will not only be featured in the press swag bags at <i>The Oscars</i> but they will also be in the celebrity swag bags at the <i>MTV Movie Awards</i>. This is something I could have never imagined back in December 2010 but am so extied about.<br />
<br />
<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
I find inspiration in just about every artist and crafter. Everyone who creates something with their hands has such an incredible talent. When I was young, my Grandma used to take me downtown Chicago to the Art Museum. It never matterd what exhibit we were going to see, I knew I would always love it (and I did!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989796"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.252724070.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76498946/smallmedium-deer-antler-chew-lot-122" target="_blank">Small/Medium Deer Antler Chew</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
My one obvious goal for the future is to expand. I would love to one day have my own shop or even expand nationally. I wouldn't mind being nationally (or internationally) known! I would also really like to get my website up to par.<br />
<br />
<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
In what spare time that I do have, I really enjoy cooking, creating new things and spending time with my dogs. I show two of my dogs in UKC and AKC events and right now we are training for some performance events.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989806"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.262367173.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79335602/x-large-dog-bed-cover-36x24-choose-your" target="_blank">XLarge Dog Bed Cover 36x24</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
Right now I have a few local places who are selling my products. There is a small dog boutique up in South Haven, MI who sells our collars and there will soon be a place right here in St. Joseph, MI selling our collars.<br />
<br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I work full time and do Four Black Paws at night so I would have to say that I spend about one or two hours per night on the business side and another hour or so a night on the creative side. Most of my creativity comes out on the weekend when I have hours of time to spend sewing and creating.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2106989819"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.4blackpaws.com/images/the_triple_threat_fixed.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.4blackpaws.com/ID_Tags.html" target="_blank">The Triple Threat ID Tag</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Go for it! The worst thing you could do is do nothing at all. The first few months may not bring anything but if you don't give up, you will see the rewards of your hard work. Also, network, network, network! You never know who you will meet wherever you are. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you so much Sarah! Be sure to visit Sarah to see and learn more about her wonderful products at:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.4blackpaws.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/4BlackPaws" target="_blank">Etsy Shop</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/4blackpaws" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/4blkpaws" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com4New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-14096812945568787082012-03-05T13:55:00.000-08:002012-03-05T13:55:56.218-08:00MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge - The Journey So FarWell it's been almost two months since I've announced that I will be participating at the <b>MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge</b> presented by <i>GBK Production </i>through my membership with <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>. I've been working feverishly coiling and cutting over 10,000 little brass, stainless steel, copper and bronze rings and getting them connected together to make 100 Chainmaille Pendants that will be inside the Celebrity Swag Bags.<br />
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So far I am please to say 65 Pendants are made and ready for me to do the final tweaks. As long as I keep doing my personal quota of five pendants per day, I should be completely done by the end of this month. However there are other things I need to do such as labeling, packaging, writing out my bio, making sure I have enough business cards.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4cqoaPb3_lz9KYjsT47gUUE8jO1DU8WJtlFy5Vi3vf7krM2TsuOdX1bo5sWeWl8ZrsiqR1US_bIQoASKGwLeD9Rut_l5aIiDo750rwz9lBSlQmNBJbBXecbvXgkQbMet8b7FQ9KzBmo/s1600/IMG_2650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4cqoaPb3_lz9KYjsT47gUUE8jO1DU8WJtlFy5Vi3vf7krM2TsuOdX1bo5sWeWl8ZrsiqR1US_bIQoASKGwLeD9Rut_l5aIiDo750rwz9lBSlQmNBJbBXecbvXgkQbMet8b7FQ9KzBmo/s640/IMG_2650.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dodecahedron Chainmaille Balls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The picture above is a sampling of what I've been doing. These little chainmaille balls, called Dodecahedron, will be the focus of the pendants I'm making. It takes 96 little rings to make up one ball, really fun! I'm not going to post the finished piece quite yet.. Still want it to be a bit of a surprise.... I can tell you the name of these pendants..... <b>Fidget</b>.<br />
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I can, however, show you the creation that will be displayed at the table during the event. It's one of my <b>Signature Chainmaille Tree of Life Decor</b>...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJLIhADZ17LRJYYPiaxyINb6NRWYy-XgtkeRpZhLG5rJJt1Z8-aYIrsEJ9oaIpcWubdhA_A1_sJrS7iNNmSIGyEaQh5y6e6rSTT3MwhQjm7m7ju-OVlb-knk7Bo-RxtwzM2xhtkPar6A/s1600/IMG_2506+6x4-75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJLIhADZ17LRJYYPiaxyINb6NRWYy-XgtkeRpZhLG5rJJt1Z8-aYIrsEJ9oaIpcWubdhA_A1_sJrS7iNNmSIGyEaQh5y6e6rSTT3MwhQjm7m7ju-OVlb-knk7Bo-RxtwzM2xhtkPar6A/s640/IMG_2506+6x4-75.jpg" width="505" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chainmaille Tree of Life Home Decor</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I still haven't given it a name yet... still got some time for that.<div><br />
</div><div>So there you go... with some planning and scheduling, I am half way there and will be ready for the big day in June.</div><div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com4New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-16351994752581672272012-02-23T08:27:00.000-08:002012-02-23T08:27:14.716-08:00An Interview with Me... Penny Cheng of Jewelry by Saniki CreationsTaking a break from featuring my fellow artists, I thought I would do something a little different today and interview <i>myself</i> so you can get to know me a little better. <br />
<br />
So today I would like you to meet Me... <b>Penny Cheng</b> of <b><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank">Jewelry by Saniki Creations</a></b>, a Member of <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b>, <i><b><a href="http://www.artistsintheboro.ca/" target="_blank">Artists in the Boro</a></b></i> and <i><b><a href="http://www.artisimportant.com/SRAJD/index.html" target="_blank">Self Representing Artist-Jewelry Designer</a>.</b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-DdMOiSUGhHJyPZZHmX6mFngoIvNd5AYVXV1N1e56Z1X4-HmzfZbE1uklZf5cd_auhu0u19Y5H5Bvm_myiIEKR72AwTluaTdIyjGNvevwK6n2ufl_okcZOmV3If9WdsmVsF18-XSioU/s400/logo8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
As far as I remember, I've always loved arts and crafts. I loved being creative but I was never able to put what I had in my head out into a medium for others to see. I tend to get bored fairly quickly so my little runs with writing, painting, drawing, knitting never lasted for very long let alone nice enough to show off to others.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8QbpuI5X2NImfj8hd3vKQ2COd9lIXNva2Wj5fyj1pp3MQmtYliwqQ4tfe4tdVXEfLjjENwZE7k0PR2gNwDscOr23safj-Q2O01n92DAfepsQPQoGfMh-EJTJ0YYGzfqWIeaJ0CfUosE/s1600/midnightflight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8QbpuI5X2NImfj8hd3vKQ2COd9lIXNva2Wj5fyj1pp3MQmtYliwqQ4tfe4tdVXEfLjjENwZE7k0PR2gNwDscOr23safj-Q2O01n92DAfepsQPQoGfMh-EJTJ0YYGzfqWIeaJ0CfUosE/s400/midnightflight.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Midnight Flight"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I started making jewelry by chance. My first intentions was only to fix the jewelry my daughters had purchased from those mall outlet stores where you can buy ten earrings for $5.00. Really cheap quality worthy of dollar store junk jewelry. After a fixing a few earrings, necklaces and bracelets, I started to put my own spin on them, adding extra charms or beads or deconstructing it entirely to make something new. I found it rather fun and relaxing so I started taking apart any jewelry items I can find and remade them. Then one day I wandered into a craft store and saw the jewelry making aisle and I was in heaven.<br />
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<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
I made a few pieces for myself and my daughters in the past, but I would say the first piece I made would have been for my Nana (from my Hubby's side). It was a beaded necklace with different Swarovski Crystals representing her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Back then I thought it was the most beautiful thing I've ever made.. but now that I think about it.. I could have done a lot better. I actually got a picture of it, my photo taking skills were just as amateur back then too as you can see from the picture below.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuVeEWI6qTJNWL507Co8TncIbtjPo8EdYD4eV6VSkA8F_5c804V2hd9Mp7gXl8MbURVclexvBk99DzeKyEuJlE6Gsw_A-4bJt1931xGn7Lcl6lWc-a8Wc2O_ixHmOd52qYjk-9G8olEY/s1600/DSC02001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuVeEWI6qTJNWL507Co8TncIbtjPo8EdYD4eV6VSkA8F_5c804V2hd9Mp7gXl8MbURVclexvBk99DzeKyEuJlE6Gsw_A-4bJt1931xGn7Lcl6lWc-a8Wc2O_ixHmOd52qYjk-9G8olEY/s400/DSC02001.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana's Necklace, Christmas 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have since made Nana another necklace, a <i>Chainmaille</i> one made with Jeweler's Brass and Amethyst Swarovski Crystals. She still wears this at all the family functions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwB4fcUR1dLSruNgBEeMus-d-tYVLIsvl71LiVmmRkKKjeoUDoNwncJr4VAtP_syoB0bZTp5AnHEi5lQJfQLnovE5uY1JqjhXRUCAB0xACRP0xqNVBgUhsggD5ElYEm63jhl-1zZqD8I/s1600/IMGP2255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwB4fcUR1dLSruNgBEeMus-d-tYVLIsvl71LiVmmRkKKjeoUDoNwncJr4VAtP_syoB0bZTp5AnHEi5lQJfQLnovE5uY1JqjhXRUCAB0xACRP0xqNVBgUhsggD5ElYEm63jhl-1zZqD8I/s400/IMGP2255.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana's Necklace, Christmas 2010</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
I've heard about how other artists have a creative process. I honestly don't really have a set plan/process. Most of my ideas come to me when I'm lying down before I fall asleep. About 75% of the time I can remember what my idea was in the morning so I work on it right away and it seems to be fine that way. I'm terrible about writing ideas out, though I have a notebook and pen on my nightstand, I've never used it for ideas. <br />
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<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I officially started my business on January 2009 doing beaded jewelry (strung pieces, wirewrapped pieces) made with Czech glass, Swarovski crystals, and semiprecious stones.<br />
<br />
I started doing Chainmaille jewelry back in the beginning of 2010 as I needed something different to what everyone else in my area was doing. Once I learned a few chainmaille weaves, I haven't stopped. Now all I ever do is chainmaille and sometimes I would do a beaded piece on commission basis. Why Chainmaille as a specialty.. I think it's my personality type. That's what I tell people. I love how metal rings put together can form such strong, intricate yet feminine pieces. Chainmailling is addictive and soothing for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_448740460"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.sanikicreations.com/image/cache/data/chainmaille%20earrings/papillonI-475x475.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/E016_PapillonI" target="_blank">Papillon I</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I think just life in general inspires me. There's so much going on in the world that it's easy to pick something to get inspired by, if that made sense at all. I suppose there's really no set thing that does it for me, it could be a sunny day where I'm in a good mood or lousy mood, or daydreaming about winning the lottery and planning my mega work studio. I'm rather odd that way.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I think that would be finding my own niche. Creating my own design that others haven't really thought of. To be referred to as an Artist.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX20oja2pAWVSHNYOyBkD_MmbW7v5bZ9C8JjVQpDF3jQHz0S56PJXWWV6NgyfH-ASWWZgoN6xbdRyA6cyJkoqhem0NBEN7XdrojtMZUOGnzqP344bSXvmlM8EBzuHOQe21QDvUqCSly0g/s1600/caught.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX20oja2pAWVSHNYOyBkD_MmbW7v5bZ9C8JjVQpDF3jQHz0S56PJXWWV6NgyfH-ASWWZgoN6xbdRyA6cyJkoqhem0NBEN7XdrojtMZUOGnzqP344bSXvmlM8EBzuHOQe21QDvUqCSly0g/s400/caught.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Caught"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
There are so many great Artists out there. It's hard for me to pinpoint specific people. I've been lucky enough to get to know others and seeing their work. Out of everyone I've ever met in person or online, I always have a favorite in something they have done.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
Besides winning the lottery? I would say being able to get more of my work out into the world. Possibly have my creations in boutiques would be awesome.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_448740474"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.sanikicreations.com/image/cache/data/home%20decor/shield-475x475.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/chainmaille_category/chainmaille_homedecor/CA003_Shield1" target="_blank">"Shield1" Wall Art</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
Wow.. what is spare time? So far it's housework. If I'm lucky, I watch a couple of television shows that's not consisting of cartoons or puppets. Napping is always a plus for me too.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I do sell at craft fairs every once in a while or at home parties that friends have set up. <br />
<br />
Through my membership with <b><a href="http://www.artistsintheboro.ca/" target="_blank">Artists in the Boro</a></b>, I have had my creations on display during the <u><i>BC Cultural Crawl</i></u>, <u><i>Queensborough Days</i></u> and at the <u><i>Queensborough Community Centre</i></u>. Last Christmas I was selling my Creations at the <u><i>Treasure Room</i></u> located at the <b>Arts Council of New Westminster</b>. <br />
<br />
In June of this year I am participating at the <b>MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge</b> presented by <i>GBK Productions</i> through my membership with <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>. I will have a display piece at the event with other artists in the group, plus 100 Chainmaille Creations will be distributed out into swag bags for the celebrities that attend the Gift Lounge.<br />
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And of course I have my <b><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b> that's been with me since the beginning. I have an open door policy, so if someone wants to come over to my place to see my creations, just give me a call and I'll have a pot of coffee ready.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMw-LNz7J33BjGG7U8SY79ZoLHphCaQHiWJWqu9CSGUtW1IZf1Z9i7maOGIy-6Z22NEe01HUEmTWUUsop3X1IYHgpEA9dVBdDSglo_IexE9fXbOwxyr4DJlUGqBMgUadgOPCbmnsAiBc/s1600/IMG_1682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMw-LNz7J33BjGG7U8SY79ZoLHphCaQHiWJWqu9CSGUtW1IZf1Z9i7maOGIy-6Z22NEe01HUEmTWUUsop3X1IYHgpEA9dVBdDSglo_IexE9fXbOwxyr4DJlUGqBMgUadgOPCbmnsAiBc/s400/IMG_1682.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Commissioned Piece</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I wish I could spend more time on the creative side. Unfortunately since I'm not in any retail places, I need to spend more time promoting my site. Ideally I would love to spend 75% creating and 25% dealing with the business stuff.<br />
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<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Plan it out and do it. Be open minded, learn as much as possible and network like crazy. Get to know other people in the same business as you. They can be your best allies in the end. There's a lot of hard work involved and at times you would feel like you want to quit, that you are not good enough... those feelings are normal and keeps us humble. You'll never know unless you try.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDwzj-nCGmNxWFPI3-2w6f-sj_CdhDgHwRPPMzCa2PYrxfkImntyiDy3cVhOPeyaRYOdsn0jsG649WtFupg6yQuQHMez9HCaT5jnM9ZMI-K26XhzZdt5DVOCZsJl2n4ZWYGmReoQH3ZA/s1600/mabon1+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDwzj-nCGmNxWFPI3-2w6f-sj_CdhDgHwRPPMzCa2PYrxfkImntyiDy3cVhOPeyaRYOdsn0jsG649WtFupg6yQuQHMez9HCaT5jnM9ZMI-K26XhzZdt5DVOCZsJl2n4ZWYGmReoQH3ZA/s400/mabon1+6.jpg" width="397" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Well that's my interview to myself. Hope you all enjoyed learning more about me. Be sure to visit my <b><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b>, follow me on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/SanikiCreations" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b> and like my <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/JewelryBySanikiCreations" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a></b>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">*****SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT*****</span></b></div>Before I say goodbye: Through my membership with <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>. I will be giving a special Chainmaille Gift to actor <b>Tom Cruise</b> and his family (his wife, <b>Katie Holmes</b> and daughter, <b>Suri Cruise</b>)! This gift will be sent to Mr. Cruise in a special gift bag containing other great handmade goodies from my fellow members. More details to follow. Stay tuned!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPkWbom7ueXfrNLvDAN-rQc7cIQml-I4oVpni_prRt7s8n-uAZFB2BS-T8KBLOHgHPfqSLsvqPmWigzoBGkJCC39OEajMSeXU6NbPdjef-6N_jlFhg60v3WddqOhC_ZfT-7zQf8Ft6RQ/s1600/chainmaille+logo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPkWbom7ueXfrNLvDAN-rQc7cIQml-I4oVpni_prRt7s8n-uAZFB2BS-T8KBLOHgHPfqSLsvqPmWigzoBGkJCC39OEajMSeXU6NbPdjef-6N_jlFhg60v3WddqOhC_ZfT-7zQf8Ft6RQ/s320/chainmaille+logo1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com4New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-13420710356299435612012-02-21T09:30:00.002-08:002012-02-21T09:30:01.592-08:00Meet Rachel Leathers of Hearts of Stone Jewelry - Featured ArtistWhen I was in my late teens, early 20's, my dad became a lover of stones and rocks. Not the type you find in a gravel pit or driveway, but semiprecious stones, like <i>Agate</i>, <i>Carnelians</i>, <i>Amethysts</i> and a large variety of <i>Quartz</i>. He tried to teach me all about it, how to tell what was what, all the different names for all the different stones he accumulated, he even believed in the healing qualities each stone contained. However, being just a kid, I basically ignored him and never did learn what he wanted to teach me. Fast forward twenty years into the future, my dad is now "up in the clouds" but I am finding myself becoming my dad, a lover of stones, wanting to learn as much as possible about each one and seeing the beauty it brings to a piece of jewelry.<br />
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With that said, I had a wonderful time getting to know more about <b>Rachel Leathers</b>, a Jewelry Designer extraordinaire, Rachel specializes in Semiprecious Stones and her talents can be found in her company, <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HrtsofStone" target="_blank">Hearts of Stone Jewelry</a></b>. Rachel is also a fellow member of <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b> and I am delighted to feature her work today.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HrtsofStone" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="52" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8695222.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I have always been involved with sewing and needlecrafts, but I wanted to do something else and starting playing around with making jewelry. I didn't know anything about it and just dove in and taught myself! I have always loved rocks, so gemstones were a perfect medium for me.<br />
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<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
I do remember my first piece, and wouldn't want to show it to anyone! Yeesch, my first pieces are not good. But, they were the first stepping stones (no pun intended), and when I look at them, it shows me just how far I've come and how much more I know about my craft. They act as validation and encouragement now!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095206"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.249606472.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72290324/whole-of-my-heart-aventurine-heart" target="_blank">"Whole of My Heart"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
My process starts with the stones; when I find a heart that makes me tingle, the process has begun! I then start to pair it with other stones and beads and just ride the wave. Any stone can do that to me, and I build from the initial feeling. <br />
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<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
When I began, I was using all shapes and sizes of gemstones. The hearts became more visually appealing to me, and I kept saying I have hearts of stone! So then the name stuck with me, and I've built everything around that. It was such a natural progression; so literal yet so tongue in cheek!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095216"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.249425249.jpg" width="397" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74300485/blue-moon-agate-druzy-heart-gemstone" target="_blank">"Blue Moon"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
The stones inspire me creatively. This is the most satisfying thing I've ever done creatively speaking, and all stones resonate with me. It is just such a perfect fit. My other inspiration is George, my honey. He has been a self-employed businessman for over 25 years, and he has the encouragement and insight that keeps me going; his attitude helps to keep mine in check, and now I see what I would have previously thought of as a failure as just another lesson learned and not at all a negative.<br />
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<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I am so thrilled to have been accepted into <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b>. Doing the gifting to the celebrities and charities gives me instant cache, and being shoulder to shoulder with other artists that wow me has been validating. Being featured on blogs and in an online magazine are also successes to me! To still be doing this 2 1/2 years after beginning it is also an achievement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095227"><img border="0" height="395" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.249395348.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74234634/the-lucky-buddha-black-coral-fossil" target="_blank">"The Lucky Buddha"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
I love any crafter/artist who truly does their work. By that I mean someone who works with metal, metal clay, or can shape stones, or knit or crochet or sew. I get so riled with people who claim to be handmade artists when all they do is put a charm on a chain and call it a handmade necklace. My line of chokers is basically that, but those exist as a complement and price point to everything else I make. I'd love to rewrite the definition of 'handmade' and compare it to 'hand-assembled'. I love any artist who's work makes me say "Wow!" and then makes me wonder just how the hell they made it!<br />
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<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
My goal is to find the secret to making more sales. Which sounds trite, but it is oh so true. I do have another dream outside of the jewelry, and that is to have a shop that is half costume shop, half garment construction. I would of course have a private room for jewelry-making!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095236"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.308068591.jpg" width="391" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70325964/sweet-n-simple-110-poppy-jasper-heart" target="_blank">"Sweet and Simple 110"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
My spare time is devoted to spending quality time with George. He works so much, and our time is limited together, so I spend as much of it with him as possible. Other times, I might just spend the day in front of the TV and try to decompress. I am a one-woman operation and that gets overwhelming and tiring. Althoguh I did manage a mani/pedi with a girlfriend I haven't seen in awhile the other day!<br />
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<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
As of right now, I sell online on Etsy and in a brick and mortar in Pasadena, CA. I do want to expand that and will try to get into more retail outlets this year. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095246"><img border="0" height="373" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.260231918.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78714192/simple-lapis-lazuli-heart-gemstone" target="_blank">"Simple Lapis Lazuli Choker"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side</b>?<br />
My biggest challenge is finding a balance to time spent at the worktable and the computer! Some days I have a plan, other days I wing it. I've found that having a loose plan like that helps my sanity. Too rigid a plan would frustrate me and kill the desire to accomplish anything.<br />
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<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
If you want to create and sell something, just jump in and give it a go. You'll never know until you try. Have fun with it, take seriously the business side of it, and be honest with it. Whatever 'it' is, be passionate about it and it will love you back. And take good pictures...<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Rachel! Be sure to check out Rachel's beautiful jewelry creations at these sites:<br />
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<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.hrtsofstone.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Shop/Etsy</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/HrtsofStone" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/HrtsofStone" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
</ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_411095255"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.310540496.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92574171/oscars-copper-dreams-poppy-jasper-and" target="_blank">"Oscar's Copper Dreams - 2012 Academy Awards Luxury Gift Lounge"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com3New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-74621062724427439532012-02-16T09:30:00.000-08:002012-02-16T09:30:01.930-08:00Meet Britt Baker of Ideology Handcrafted Jewelry - Featured ArtistNecklaces, Charms, Earrings and Bracelets, oh my! Today we get to know more about <b>Britt Baker</b> of <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ideology" target="_blank">Ideology Handcrafted Jewelry</a></b>, Britt is a fellow member of <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b></i> and her unique style of jewelry is perfect for everyday wear!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXtPx89Hx4_G9r78vTqo8MLtPu2k_p_etTgUuF_YwjiYUJwQpM_lizJkdt3rctBJiW4LQ50J2eP2c74jWfZ7RSePCnfvJsckLKkUdaVVR2HjmQM33QKx6BJv60oTTqBIMPJunIKSKmcM/s1600/brittbaker+ideology.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXtPx89Hx4_G9r78vTqo8MLtPu2k_p_etTgUuF_YwjiYUJwQpM_lizJkdt3rctBJiW4LQ50J2eP2c74jWfZ7RSePCnfvJsckLKkUdaVVR2HjmQM33QKx6BJv60oTTqBIMPJunIKSKmcM/s400/brittbaker+ideology.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Britt Baker, Jewelry Designer</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ideology" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="83" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8847928.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I first started my jewelry shop - ideology - in October of 2011, after pondering the idea of creating jewelry for quite some time. After several months of trying out beading, I noticed I developed more of an affinity toward charm jewelry. So, as I began to work with charms and combining various elements together, I discovered that I really loved creating jewelry in that style, and I've been looking for new ways to create in my style, as well as try out other styles of jewelry making, ever since!<br />
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<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
As a child, I remember making various jewelry pieces, such as friendship bracelets, but I can't recall which my very first one was.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1916756478"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.307380705.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81316822/owl-necklace-with-tree-agate-gemstone" target="_blank">Owl Necklace with Tree Agate Gemstone</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
I try to think of symbols, elements, and other items that I really like. I also like to include items that my loved ones really enjoy. For example, my Mom is a huge owl lover - she's always had owl figurines, pictures, and so forth all about her home - so I like to include lots of owls in my work.<br />
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<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I first started out beading, but now I have grown to love charm jewelry, using various metals, and the including gemstones and other items into my pieces.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1916756488"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.306049132.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88984377/brass-lion-earrings-antiqued-brass" target="_blank">Brass Lion Earrings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Nature is one of my biggest inspirations, as you will see many elements of nature in my work, whether they are metals, gemstones, or animal charms.<br />
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<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I have wanted my jewelry to become my job, not just a hobby, which it did in less than a years time!<br />
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<b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
Some of my favorite artists and crafters are many of those I have found through Etsy. I love how they have found a way to grow their business, to learn from one another, and to follow their passion to be able to make their handmade success happen.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1916756497"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.297069087.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88985360/silver-snowflake-bracelet-shiny" target="_blank">Silver Snowflake Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
I would love to continue to grow my business, learn more jewelry making techniques, start up my own website for ideology jewelry, open up a supply shop, and work on other creative endeavors.<br />
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<b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I enjoy spending time with my loved ones and animal companions, exploring local shops, enjoying nature, painting, knitting, writing, and going to see live music.<br />
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<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I sell my jewelry online in my Etsy shop: http://www.ideology.etsy.com<br />
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I also have my jewelry on display for sale at Artsy Diva Boutique in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Artsy-Diva-Boutique/201540039875918 <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1916756507"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.307490089.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59344822/phoenix-necklace-locket-necklace-phoenix" target="_blank">Phoenix Necklace Locket</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I work on my jewelry business at least 40 hours a week, with about half of it going to the creative side and half to the business side, currently. <br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
I would tell them to go for it! Make sure you stay organized, price your items well, do everything you can to promote, and keep learning whenever possible, as there are many wonderful people out there to help you with the ins and outs of starting your own crafty business!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you so much Britt! To find more of Britt's beautiful jewelry creations, be sure to check out her sites below:<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ideology" target="_blank">Shop</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/ideologyart" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/#!/ideologyjewelry" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-42811614809315776562012-02-14T09:30:00.000-08:002012-02-14T09:30:00.295-08:00Meet Anna Farath of Galaxy Eyes Photography - Featured Artist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We start of this week getting to know more about <b>Anna Farath</b> of <b><a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes" target="_blank">Galaxy Eyes Photography</a></b>. Anna, who is also a fellow member of <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b></i>, takes us to a world of simple enchantments with her beautiful and breathtaking images.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7PNPBzhKCxl-nPlRq11qxbs0y0M6akeNbIFVNCvMDNrDtGS0x-CJd_XKbow7fmQdrglsqQ_s51zNrhZZSvbnR9YChlsibbLrEgxfN-FnYzuE-zAXVk1x1zeiyIs4zxB5DF8RwBahPqg/s1600/galaxyeyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7PNPBzhKCxl-nPlRq11qxbs0y0M6akeNbIFVNCvMDNrDtGS0x-CJd_XKbow7fmQdrglsqQ_s51zNrhZZSvbnR9YChlsibbLrEgxfN-FnYzuE-zAXVk1x1zeiyIs4zxB5DF8RwBahPqg/s400/galaxyeyes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="52" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.9266693.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I've always had a passion for photography. Throughout my life I enjoyed taking pictures, but it was when I got into college that I said “hey, this is my thing…this is what I want to do!” - I majored in Journalism and I've only had a few photography classes so it's not a skill that I actually developed in university. I’m pretty much self-taught and I still have a lot to learn!<br />
<br />
I started in 2007 but I only opened a print shop in 2011.<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
It's hard to define my first piece, considering that photography has always been in my life. But the first piece I ever sold was this photo, called FALL.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1557620243"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a1.s6img.com/cdn/box_001/post_11/179426_4490886_b.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes/Fall-Q5_Print" target="_blank">"Fall"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
I'm moved by emotions. I'm an introspective person, so the way I found to express myself and my emotions was through photography. If I remember, read, listen to something, I process this feeling and create a new piece. There are times that I only capture a moment on the streets, which is something that comes more naturally (and it’s also a matter of good timing).<br />
<br />
In still life, my inspiration usually comes from songs and memories. Sometimes I just have an idea or a word in my head, like "childhood". Then I find a way to translate that. In this case, this is how I translated childhood memories...through a series of minimalistic portraits.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1557620253"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a1.s6img.com/cdn/box_003/post_13/420007_13447690_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes/Childhood-ZYH_Print" target="_blank">"Childhood"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
I can assure that my work has changed a lot. First because I try to constantly learn and improve my skills. But I used to have doubts about my own style (I still do)...I find it hard to define my own style as I to experiment many things. I used to focus on landscapes, cityscapes and now I’m finding myself in still life, abstract images. Now I can also say that I’m looking at things differently, working with minimalistic photos, negative spaces...<br />
<br />
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I'm very inspired by music.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I’m still new at this but good things have already happened. My work has been selected to be sold on Urban Outfitters, I’ve been featured on Cool Hunting and some great blogs. Also, a few pieces that I worked in collaboration with hitRECord (a collaborative production company) were screened at SXSW Festival.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1557620263"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a1.s6img.com/cdn/box_003/post_13/415801_4629905_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes/Lucky-HVH_Print" target="_blank">"Lucky"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
There are so many amazing photographers out there! I absolutely love the style of Jamie Beck. From fashion, to lifestyle to architecture; everything is outstanding. I also like Agnes Samour, especially because she only uses film and doesn’t rely on super fancy equipment; it’s just a girl and her camera – producing brilliant compositions.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
My idea is to start working with wholesale, which is something that I haven’t experimented yet, and to take my online shop to a next level, getting my name out there. I’ll hopefully take an interior photography course, so I can get into this field too. And I’d love to expand my home office!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1557620271"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.296139091.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88739747/summertime-i-8x8-20x20cm-print-home" target="_blank">"Summertime"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I like to cook (even though my kitchen skills are very limited) and I watch many tv shows. And of course, I like to read, listen to music and hang out with friends!<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
My work is available on Society6 (art prints, framed prints, stretched canvases and iPhone cases & skins), Etsy and Urban Outfitters.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1557620290"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.290108753.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87142992/rustic-ii-8x8-20x20cm-print-home-decor" target="_blank">"Rustic II"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I spend much more time in the creative side, as I try to release new images at least 3 times a week...can't say exactly how many hours. It depends. I don't neglect the business side though. I spend at least 4 hours a day promoting the shop, answering e-mails, comments, listing items, getting in touch with fellow artists and planning new projects.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Be very patient, be persistent and never undervalue your work.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Anna, be sure to check out all of Anna's links and her shop to purchase her wonderful prints:<br />
<br />
<b>Shop (Etsy)</b> - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/galaxyeyes">http://www.etsy.com/shop/galaxyeyes</a><br />
<b>Shop (Society6)</b> - <a href="http://society6.com/galaxyeyes" target="_blank">http://society6.com/galaxyeyes </a><br />
<b>Blog</b> - <a href="http://galaxies.tumblr.com/">http://galaxies.tumblr.com</a><br />
<b>Twitter</b> - <a href="http://twitter.com/galaxyeyesphoto">http://twitter.com/galaxyeyesphoto</a><br />
<b>Facebook</b> - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GalaxyEyesPhotography?sk=info" target="_blank">http://facebook.com/galaxyeyesphotography </a><br />
<b>Flickr</b> -<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/galaxyeyes" target="_blank">http://www.flickr.com/photos/galaxyeyes</a><br />
<b>Portfolio</b> - <a href="http://cargocollective.com/annafarath">http://cargocollective.com/annafarath</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-571196392799082632012-02-09T09:30:00.000-08:002012-02-09T09:30:01.423-08:00Meet Jessica Taylor of Shaka Soaps - Featured ArtistToday's featured Artist is <b>Jessica Taylor</b>. A fellow member of <a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a>, Jessica is lucky to live in beautiful Hawaii with the sun, surf, and beaches plus doing something she loves, creating wonderful handmade bath products at her own company called <b><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/" target="_blank">Shaka Soap</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="107" src="http://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/banner_images/24113/Honu_Banner_original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art? </b><br />
I have been a stay at home mom for over three years and was beginning to feel like I was in a "creative rut." I dabbled in many different things like cake decorating, scrapbooking, and crocheting, but nothing really sparked a passion. I have always been facinated with soap making and the labor that goes into creating handmade bath products, so last year in August, I made my first batch of cold process soap. It was so exciting and intimidating, and it has now become my passion.<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
The first soap I ever made was a plain, unscented batch that I poured into PVC pipe to set up. I really shouldn't have used that as my first mold, it was so hard to get the soap out of there! ;)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1780434975"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/567474/Shaka-Soap-Dragon-2_large.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/products/242917-year-of-the-dragon-soap" target="_blank">Year of the Dragon Soap</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>E<b>very Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
It depends on what I am going to make. If it is soap, which it usually is, I tend to be inspired by colors and textured found in clothing and artwork. I get an idea into my head and try to fabricate what I have envisioned. Many times it turns out completely different than I had originally pictured, which is the exciting part!<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
When I first started, I was only making cold-process soap. I really wanted to dabble into other areas of bath and body products. I then moved on to glycerin soap, lotions, lip balm, bath salts, sugar scrubs, salves, and, most recently, clay masks. I am having a blast!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1780434985"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/567419/Shaka-Soap-Shaka-Skin-Awa-Puhi-4_large.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/products/231796-awa-puhi-lotion-8oz" target="_blank">Awa Puhi Lotion</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I am so blessed to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world, Hawaii. The culture, the scenery, the wildlife, and the amazing feeling of aloha are just what I need to get my creativity inspired.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Most of the goals have been to make something new (like a new product) and have my customers love it. The biggest compliment to me it to have a product that I make that people love.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1780434996"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/591737/Shaka-Soap-Soothe-1_original.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/products/231786-soothing-hawaiian-salve" target="_blank">Soothing Hawaiian Salve</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
I am a member of an awesome group called <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b></i>. It consists of amazing artists who all create different things, from jewelry to sock monkeys! They are all very talented and I love all of the work I have seen so far.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
My next hurdle is to tackle liquid soap. I have been requested to make dog shampoo and I would love to tap into the pet market a little bit. I would also like to be able to make my daughter's bubble bath and shampoo and know what ingredients she is using on here little body.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1780435005"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/567512/Shaka-Soap-Shaka-Smooth-Lip-Balm_large.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/products/231760-coconut-hawaiian-lip-butter" target="_blank">Coconut Hawaiian Lip Butter</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
Spare time? What is that? =) Ususally I am playing with my 1 and 3 year old when I can, reading soap making books (I'm kind of a bookworm and research nut), and I love to bake!<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I currently sell in four stores: <i>B. Lavish Day Spa</i> and <i>LaTreases's Sassy Scissors</i> in California. <i>Essentially Yours</i> and <i>Starlight</i> here on the Big Island. I do craft fairs every chance I get because I love meeting different people and hearing what they like and what they don't. I have a craft fair this weekend in Waimea and another next weekend in Hilo.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1780435015"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/567602/Shaka-Soap-Shaka-Scrub-6_large.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/products/231737-tahitian-vanilla-hawaiian-sugar-scrub" target="_blank">Tahitian Vanilla Hawaiin Sugar Scrub</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I try to spend more on the creative side, but the reality is the the business side just takes a lot of my time. I want to do the business side right so that I can eventually spend more time creating!<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
If you love it, do it! Do your research and find others who are interested in the same art you are. There is nothing more fun for me than to talk 'soap' with another soaper.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Jessica, be sure to indulge yourself in the tropics with Shaka Soap products!<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b>Shop:</b> <a href="http://www.shaka-soap.com/">http://www.shaka-soap.com</a></li>
<li><b>Blog:</b> <a href="http://www.shaka-blog.com/">http://www.shaka-blog.com</a></li>
<li><b>Facebook:</b> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/shaka.soap">http://www.facebook.com/shaka.soap</a></li>
<li><b>Twitter:</b> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/shakasoap" target="_blank">@shakasoap</a></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com4New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-46566211807256928972012-02-07T06:47:00.000-08:002012-02-07T06:47:31.762-08:00Meet Donna Wilson of Brapples - Featured ArtistWhen I was in grade 11 (back in the 80's.. oops, just dated myself again), one of my Social Studies project was to invent something new. I had two ideas. The first was an automatic toothpaste dispenser that you put the paste in the toothbrush handle, press a button, and voila, the toothpaste comes out from the bristles.. I used that idea and got an A for it. Decades later, someone made a toothbrush that basically does what I thought of... Dang.. I could of been a millionaire.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">My second idea for the project..... well, let's just say that idea has now been done by fellow <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b> member <b>Donna Wilson</b> of <b><a href="http://www.brapples.com/" target="_blank">Brapples</a></b>. Interchangeable bra straps that is both functional and decorative.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzTtKLC4eHbX7pgkuxeFtrGfSxpWyJtYfEWKd70XUKgYlPsLFN4XpJKxPd6yVDJ10Aou5SRb2-wZ0mxhB4IeBUaPcU3kpiJ9AkVAXniVHFNjhz3afIUzHJfTgUbGuJLNlLZDHVEUTg4o/s400/brapples-sept06.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/7207366_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/7207366_orig.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I remember always being crafty. I was the type of child that would make all needlepoint presents for Christmas one year, and jigsaw figurines the next. And on top of that, I am always trying to improve upon things, make things function more, make them more stylish and appealing. For 11 years now I have designed and created custom curtains so a challenge, style, and creativity has always been a part of what I do and who I am. <br />
<br />
So one day when getting dressed I was frustrated that I couldn’t find a bra with a strap that would somewhat match the tank top I was intending on wearing that day. I noticed my cabinet open that had all my necklaces hanging on it and I thought how cool it would be to wear something stylish like that I my shoulders instead of some ugly bra strap. Or even if it was a solid strap, that I could just grab a strap off the cabinet door and place it on my nude color bra without the everyday struggle of finding something suitable. The seed was planted, and over the next few days I began to experiment with the concept. A few months later, Brapples Sassy Bra Straps became reality.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/1134572.jpg?217" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/1134572.jpg?217" width="299" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Yes, I took a plain strap and added a really cute ribbon trim to it. I wore it out to a Derby party and had so many people responding they liked it that I thought well maybe this shoulder jewelry can become a new accessory item. Soon after came the beaded the options.<br />
<br />
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
Well, many people aren’t aware that my shop is on the 3rd floor of a church attic space. It is serene and quiet, and really allows my mind to creatively think out of the box. So always having a great space to work in should be the first start to any creative process. Anything I create will have a unique purpose in mind. I want to take everyday accessories and make them more functional and stylish. Take for example my faux fur neck wraps:<br />
<a href="http://www.brapples.com/furry-neck-wrap.html">http://www.brapples.com/furry-neck-wrap.html</a><br />
I added a hidden magnet so that you can easily put it on over your head. And because of the shape it can also be worn on your head. I like things to have multiple purposes when possible. There is patent pending on my design so I am excited about that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/7089794.jpg?182?2621753" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/7089794.jpg?182?2621753" width="397" /></a></div><br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
Honestly, my work is always changing. I add new ideas and tweak old ones. My unique accessories line is always evolving, changing, and growing. Coming soon is fabric belts with really cool belt buckles. I can’t wait. I think it, make it, and launch it. I then hope that people love it as much as I do. I make things that I would want to buy, that I love, and hope that my style of taste will resonate with others.<br />
<br />
<b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Everything inspires me. I look at necklaces for ideas for my bra straps. I look at color trends in the boutiques. I look at what doesn’t work right with certain accessories like scarves, and I make it work with more function, more warmth, and more style than before. And adding a little bling to anything is always a good thing.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Well my biggest goal was just taking the chance on what I thought was a good idea. Anyone who has launched such a venture knows that having an idea is one thing, but having the determination to follow it through is a whole other thing. Despite the monetary investment, the learning curve, the missed out family events, and the stress of deadlines and multiple rejections, I am really happy that I jumped. I don’t want to look back on my life and think that I had what I thought was a really good idea (which like all of us, we have a few in our lifetime) and not have the courage to see it through. I have learned a lot, met a lot of fascinating people, and love what I do.<br />
<br />
<b>What are some of your favorite artists and crafters and why?</b><br />
My favorite artists/crafters would be both of my Grandmothers. One was a painter and one taught me to sew. Without their encouragement in the early years of my life, and taking an interest in doing crafty things with me, I wonder if I would be so crafty now. Probably, but knowing it early helps.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/1314311948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/1314311948.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
I would love to see my Brapples products in thousands of boutiques and stores across the country. <br />
<br />
<b>What do What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I am a mom of two very active boys who loves going to their baseball and football games. I also love to do woodworking projects for my home and meet up with my girlfriends for lunch.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
You can find Brapples’ products in boutigues in Chicago, Fort Meyer’s and Jacksonville Florida, and have I reps in Ontario Canada and Minnesota just getting started. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/458557.jpg?143?5980748" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/458557.jpg?143?5980748" width="397" /></a></div><br />
<b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
Lately, I spend many nights looking at trade show information and lamenting on which ones I want to invest in this year. This will be the first year I do them. At this point it is probably 65% creative, 35% business. Although that percentage changes and fluctuates depending on the season and what is going on.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
I would say start out slow. Utilize as many free resources as you can. When I started out I used the local college in my town and was amazed at the support and networking that I received. I even joined a entrepreneur network that was just being formed. I used weebly.com for creating my free website on my own and really spent a lot of time figuring out search engine optimizations, and such. With the beauty of Google you can learn everything you need to start a company. Sure you can pay someone a lot of money to do all this for you but I really encourage people to know how to do it first. As your cash flow starts to increase then you can allocate some of these things out but I prefer to be the administrator on certain things. It is never good in business to have to wait in line for someone to help you with your business “to do list”. Keep your craft a hobby until you are ready to go to trade shows and at which point you can create you corporation. And you can do that on-line also. And the best thing always is to just ask people who have gone before you. I asked lots of questions and people are always eager to assist you. Even now, I go to boutiques and ask them where they do their buying, if they think my products would do well in that market, what kind of booth attracts them when they are at market—and why? The owners/buyers are my market and why wouldn’t I take the opportunity to engage them on what they know and like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/3836012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.brapples.com/uploads/5/0/5/1/5051820/3836012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.</b><br />
I am always eager to help others because I feel that as artisans really need to look out for each other. When I go to sell at a boutique I also try to sell them on my fellow artisan’s stuff also. We become each other’s reps. It is a great way to help out your community and I have noticed that boutiques are much more inclined to give us a chance because their customers are more encouraged than ever to buy local. Boutiques are about the unique, and they know that their customers are willing to pay more money for something that has a story tied to it. Networking for each other really helps us get our products out there.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Donna! To find out more about <b>Brapples</b>, be sure to visit:<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.brapples.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Brapples" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com1New Westminster, BC, Canada49.2100859 -122.9172090000000149.1786644 -122.95965750000002 49.2415074 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-17033022471849923162012-02-02T09:00:00.000-08:002012-02-02T09:00:03.888-08:00Meet Betty Miller of Magic Senses - Featured Artist<div>Today, let me introduce to you <b>Betty Miller</b> of <b><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/" target="_blank">Magic Senses</a></b>. A fellow member of <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>, Betty's handmade designer vegetable glycerin soaps leaves you feeling soft, fresh, and of course clean.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk0X7zJ7wVQTKH40yqLemq3SfD8FVDGh0yq9WNKv4c0jTVz1E02G1Oia0e9_NesTcmsJBHjO_U3qPWWHl05SPSasW-kqLTcuNK3C3oe7Gx8BkL0gV2DENpdTNSZL5VsNmBHFPV5tBy4o/s1600/betty+miller1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk0X7zJ7wVQTKH40yqLemq3SfD8FVDGh0yq9WNKv4c0jTVz1E02G1Oia0e9_NesTcmsJBHjO_U3qPWWHl05SPSasW-kqLTcuNK3C3oe7Gx8BkL0gV2DENpdTNSZL5VsNmBHFPV5tBy4o/s400/betty+miller1.jpg" width="332" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betty Miller, Magic Senses</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="122" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/includes/templates/cherry_zen/images/logo.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I was at a craft fair in the summer of 2005 (newlywed and recently moved to California) and saw the most beautiful soap I had ever seen; I fell in love with it. I found out it was made with glycerin and I bought three bars. I had never seen or tried handmade soap before! Only store bought. This soap smelt so good, I wanted to buy it all! I had one of the bars on my desk for almost 3 months and it made me smile every day. After using the bars, I noticed the impact it had on me and my skin – it was a product that brightened my day, every day! So I decided to give it a try and loved making it!<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Yes! It was a pink butterfly soap fragranced with Plumeria oil. I still have it. J<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911110"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/plumeria_soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=174" target="_blank">Plumeria</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
At Magic Senses, the creative process is a little different with every design but, mainly, this is how it goes:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>we fall madly in love with a fragrance;</li>
<li>decide what kind of soap we want to make (signature collection, square, novelty, etc);</li>
<li>brainstorm fun, unique ideas for design and choose color combinations; put them on the drawing board;</li>
<li>narrow down to 2 or 3 designs that best represent the fragrance and make a test batch for each design;</li>
<li>ask for honest feedback from customers;</li>
<li>depending on the feedback, we choose a final design and improve on it, if necessary, till we think it’s perfect.</li>
</ul><br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
That may be true but, in our case, we loved the glycerin soap from the beginning and, to this day, it remains our main product. Along the years, we tried making other bath and body products but we did not excel at them (maybe we didn’t try hard enough), so we stopped making them and focused on the soap. However, there is one exception: our Shea Body Butter. We love making this one!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911119"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/two_to_tango_soap.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=49&products_id=305" target="_blank">Two to Tango</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
Most of the times, we are inspired by fragrances. There are times, however, when a concept or idea inspires us. For example, our “Believe in You” butterfly soap was initially made to support women in business; it was supposed to be a “limited edition” but was so successful that we made it one of our signature soaps. The idea behind this creation was that being confident will give you wings and sky is the limit!<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Our main goal was (and still is) to create an excellent product everyone can use and enjoy… a product that would make people happy and life more fun while taking care of the skin. We improve on our products every year but we think we mainly achieved that.<br />
<br />
Another goal was to help charities close to our heart by either donating soap or a percentage of the proceeds from certain soap collections. So far, we’ve helped Dizzy feet Foundation, Casting for Recovery, Women’s Center in Stockton, California and a few others. This is an ongoing goal!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911129"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/watermelon_soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=30&products_id=156" target="_blank">Watermelon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
In the last six years, we met so many creative artisans (too many to list!) that just blew our minds! However, I’d like to mention our friend Beth Reiman from BPRdesigns. She is very talented and I love her handmade fused glass décor items and jewelry!<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
This year’s goal is to take Magic Senses soap to Hollywood! We are working on this right now and I am excited to announce that Magic Senses will be represented by <i><b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b></i> at the GBK Academy Awards (Oscars) Gift Lounge in February! Our soap will be gifted to 100 celebrities and attending guests! Now that is “raising the bar”! The soap designs to be famous are: Watermelon, Lemon Lavender, Cherry Vanilla, Two to Tango, Seaside, Soft Rain, Cool Rhythm and the Believe in You Butterfly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911138"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/mountain_rain_soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=40&products_id=282" target="_blank">Mountain Rain</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
I don’t have any spare time to speak of… but when I do, I take care of my other business, Simo Media, which is a network of niche blogs. I also like to go for some shopping therapy with my husband. J<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
All our soap Collections are available online at <b><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/">www.MagicSenses.com</a></b>. The Dance Soap Collection we exclusively made for “Dizzy Feet Foundation” can be found on their website, also. Our favorite reseller is Pine Tree Road Soap Shop in San Diego.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911148"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/feng-shui-wood_soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=31&products_id=306" target="_blank">Feng Shui Wood</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
Well, it depends on the season… and I’m not sure I’d measure it in hours though… let’s put it this way: we have a full time job working ON the business and another full time job working IN the business. During the Holiday season (September – December), we breathe soap! We work till 4 am processing orders and making more soap! At the end of the day, we are happy knowing that all the beautiful soap we made will go to a wonderful home or will be a surprise gift to a soap lover. And that makes it all worth it!<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
You must absolutely be passionate about your craft and have your mind set on success! Otherwise, it will be just a hobby with a business license. J And another thing: don’t be afraid of healthy competition!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_564911157"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://www.magicsenses.com/images/soap/believe_soap.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=35&products_id=283" target="_blank">Believe in You</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.</b><br />
First of all, I’d like to thank you for the interview! Second of all, I’d like to encourage your readers who want to break up with their boring soap to visit <a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/"><b>www.MagicSenses.com</b></a> and join us on Facebook (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/MagicSenses"><b>www.Facebook.com/MagicSenses</b></a>) or Twitter (<a href="http://www.twitter.com/magicsenses" target="_blank"><b>@magicsenses</b></a>). Thank you so much!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Betty! Be sure to look for Betty's <b>Magic Senses</b> soaps online at<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MagicSenses" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/magicsenses" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.magicsenses.com/blog/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com7New Westminster, BC, Canada49.210086 -122.9172090000000149.1786645 -122.95965750000002 49.2415075 -122.87476050000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-80482383156435765152012-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:002012-01-31T09:00:02.029-08:00Meet Monica Collins of TG Bears - Featured ArtistWho remembers their first Teddy Bear? I got mine on my 18th birthday, paid for it myself with my first paycheque (which the payday happened to be right on my birthday). My job was to call businesses up from the yellow pages and ask for their fax number so it can be added to a fax number directory...it was a boring job, didn't stay more than a month there, but it did give me my own spending money and I got my bear... named him Snuggle Bear because he looked like the bear in the laundry detergent commercials and after 23 years, still sits at my night stand.<br />
<br />
The bears that <b>Monica Collins</b> of<b> <a href="http://www.tgbears.com/" target="_blank">TG Bears</a></b> makes are loveable and huggable. Handmade from start to finish, each bear is slightly different, never identical.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYAkNSr6f3cQVyKRNH8s5zBeHQvFIj28yHhvz6eut59WWOCXBj0QW5h0jTU3vxLkANaR-fRGTat1ME77Fu96S27_Ize5AzD51CiE0SrM4dJvVxePOgryUs2M8DfLnmLnrObqElb4BLKp0/s1600/monica+collins+TG+Bears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYAkNSr6f3cQVyKRNH8s5zBeHQvFIj28yHhvz6eut59WWOCXBj0QW5h0jTU3vxLkANaR-fRGTat1ME77Fu96S27_Ize5AzD51CiE0SrM4dJvVxePOgryUs2M8DfLnmLnrObqElb4BLKp0/s400/monica+collins+TG+Bears.jpg" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monica Collins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Monica is a fellow member of <b><i><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></i></b> and I had the pleasure to find out more about her and her bears.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tgbears.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/373591_113109522099664_1819840967_n.jpg" width="135" /></a></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
I have always loved teddy bears. There is something ageless about them. I enjoy sewing and doing things creative – so how much better than putting two loves together?<br />
<br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
Absolutely, it was a teddy bear that I thought looked a bit out of shape. But someone loved him and bought him and that is when I realized there is someone for everyone out there ?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071711"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000030_500.jpg" width="298" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/12-angela.aspx" target="_blank">"Angela"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
I don’t really have a process. I would say my creativeness comes as an a-ha moment – I like to call it inspiration. I then go about putting that moment into practice.<br />
<br />
<b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
The process for me has not moved outside of teddy bears. But it has moved outside of the making being a hobby to it being a business and so I have changed how I think about going about the selling of my bears.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071722"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000167_500.jpg" width="293" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/3-hernando.aspx" target="_blank">"Hernando"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What inspires you creatively?</b><br />
I have many inspirations, but colors is a very definite one. I love going into fabric stores or other places where there are a kaleidoscope of colors in one place. It makes me feel like I am not able to keep up with the processes in my head<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
I have, thanks to my exclusive membership in <i>The Artisan Group</i>, been able to gift some bears to celebrities. I was also chosen as Fox Small Business of the Day in November. But what I find a great goal that I have achieved is to be able to work with some charities to help support them. I am currently making bears for Angels4Epilepsy to deliver to children in hospital.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071732"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000073_500.jpeg" width="310" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"<a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/26-angels4epilepsy.aspx" target="_blank">Angels4Epilepsy</a>"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
That would be hard to list here. I am a fan of many forms of arts and crafts and admire people who do their craft well. I have no ability to draw and so artists fall into a special category in my opinion.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
TG Bears is destined for growth in the 2012. I have some goals in place. Keep watch at <b><a href="http://www.tgbears.com/">http://www.tgbears.com</a></b> for news! But one thing that I have already implemented is flat rate shipping.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071742"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000054_500.jpeg" width="298" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/19-duty-bear.aspx" target="_blank">"Duty Bear"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
Being a wife and new business owner – what is spare time? But I do enjoy going out with my husband and taking time to explore places and sights around. I love travelling. <br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
I don’t display my bears anywhere at this stage.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071753"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000081_500.jpeg" width="310" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/29-nina.aspx" target="_blank">"Nina"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
I sell online at <b><a href="http://www.tgbears.com/">http://www.tgbears.com</a></b>. I don’t have fixed hours that I spend on any one thing. It goes with the flow. Some weeks I get to spend more time in my sewing room and sometimes business obligations seem to rule my life.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Go for it! I heard a good quote the other day: Businesses don’t fail, their owners just quit.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1163071764"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tallguysties.com/bears/images/thumbs/0000071_500.jpeg" width="298" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/products/25-daisy.aspx" target="_blank">"Daisy"</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.</b><br />
I do a bi-monthly newsletter. Signing up for it on my website or on Facebook will give you a 25% off coupon to use on your first TG Bear order.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Monica!! Be sure to check out <b>TG Bears</b> at the following sites:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><a href="http://www.tgbears.com/"><b>http://www.tgbears.com</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/tgbears"><b>http://www.facebook.com/tgbears</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.twitter.com/tgbears"><b>http://www.twitter.com/tgbears</b></a></li>
<li><a href="http://pinterest.com/tgbears"><b>http://pinterest.com/tgbears</b></a></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Before I go... Monica is having a wonderful Giveaway to celebrate a few milestones<b> TG Bears</b> have reached. The Giveaway starts February 16th and the prize... Well let's just say Monica, fellow Members of <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank"><i>The Artisan Group</i></a></b> and Myself (<b><a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank">Jewelry by Saniki Creations</a></b>) are donating to the prize which is a swag bag full of handmade goodness worth <b><u>$1,015.00 USD</u></b>. Click <b><a href="http://tallguysties.com/bears/giveaway.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a></b> for more details about the prize and how to enter.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7913630534648913355.post-60666440995488465462012-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:002012-01-27T09:00:02.951-08:00Meet Susan & Ashley White of Wicked Wench Soapworks - Featured ArtistsChemicals.... who really likes to put that stuff on your body... let alone bathe in it? I know I certainly don't. Most, if not all, commercially sold bath products contains ingredients that I, for one, can't even pronounce let alone know what it is really is.<br />
<br />
Today we get to know <b>Susan White</b> and <b>Ashley White</b>, sisters, owners and creators of <u>all natural</u> bath products at <b><a href="http://www.wickedwenchsoapworks.com/" target="_blank">Wicked Wench Soapworks</a></b>. Fellow members of <b><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></b>, the White Sisters offer an alternative to commercially mass produced chemical-based products that for people with skin sensitivities, is a breath of fresh air.<br />
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</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wickedwenchsoapworks.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="100" src="http://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/banner_images/22776/header_1_store_tm_original.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b>How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?</b><br />
We’ve both always had a love of crafts and DIY in general. Ashley was encouraged to create art when she was small to refine her fine motor skills and I loved the process of putting things together to make something new. The love of creating bath & body products is fairly new (within the past two years), when we decided it was time to make our own soaps because of reactions we were both having to commercial soaps. I have seborrheic dermatitis on my face and it was made worse by both the harsh medications and commercial soaps. Ashley received horrible burns to her hands as a teenager and the commercial soaps aggravate the scar tissue and make the skin peel.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Vr8OuMKfOqM1jYfMjQEAj4reELcXyugy0bwSJ8uvTr91GDOtjDDjoDew-5VAuDDOekQ4d1Kye4aiOWRSkN7aznKvxh-qqnrxvZGPDewBZaSUv46vmNAK7ytg9fR-WITWUAr_33FdDgg/s1600/wickedwenchsoapworksThanksgivingGiveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Vr8OuMKfOqM1jYfMjQEAj4reELcXyugy0bwSJ8uvTr91GDOtjDDjoDew-5VAuDDOekQ4d1Kye4aiOWRSkN7aznKvxh-qqnrxvZGPDewBZaSUv46vmNAK7ytg9fR-WITWUAr_33FdDgg/s400/wickedwenchsoapworksThanksgivingGiveaway.jpg" width="365" /></a></div><br />
<b>Do you remember the first piece you ever made?</b><br />
The first bath & body product we made was our <i>Hemp Seed Oil</i> soap. I ordered all the ingredients online and we whipped up the batch in our kitchen. It wasn’t very pretty but it did its job. Immediately, I saw that my face was less red and burned looking.<br />
<br />
<b>Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?</b><br />
With our bar soaps, we make three different bases (Hemp, Honey and Goat’s Milk) so before scenting a new bar, we consider the underlying scent of the base along with the scent that we want to add. We have found that certain scents just do not work with the underlying chlorophyll scent of the Hemp bars.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1702052088"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/535572/relaxing_20rose_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/products/229135-relaxing-rose-bath-tea" target="_blank">Relaxing Rose Bath Tea</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?</b><br />
We used to make a few items that you won’t see on our website anymore. There were certain products that the entire process of making just didn’t work for us. They totally disturbed the flow of our processes and it was hard to get that easy flow restarted.<br />
<br />
<b>Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?</b><br />
Since we are a relatively new business, our first online sale was a huge success. In late 2011, we joined a local farmers market (<i>North Scottsdale Farmers Market</i>) and have been received very well. Some of the feedback we have received is leading us to our goal for 2012.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1702052097"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/525397/gin_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/products/224533-gingerbread-cookie" target="_blank">Gingerbread Cookie Bar Soap</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?</b><br />
Our Mom. The whole time we were growing up, she would create things that were amazing. When Care Bears first came out, my parents couldn’t afford to buy one for me (because $30 in the very early 1980’s was a lot of money) so she made me one. The only difference was the heart shaped tag on its bottom. My tag was made of felt and a real one was embroidered. It’s 30 years later and I still have my hand-made Sleepy Time Bear. For Ashley, Mom has made multiple Halloween costumes with painstaking detail. She has been Belle that looked so real, little kids were running up to her shouting “Mom! Its Belle! They got Belle for Halloween!”, she has been Ariel (in a costume where the fins flapped as she walked) and she has been a belly-dancer where women that actually belly-dance asked where she got her outfit because it was so well made. And the birthday cakes! I could go on for days about the birthday cakes.<br />
<br />
<b>Any goals for the future you would like to share?</b><br />
Many of our farmers market customers (around 70%) have asked us if we are vendors at the <i>Arizona Renaissance Festival</i> and/or they recommend that we look into becoming vendors. Our goal for 2012 is to be accepted into the Arizona Renaissance Festival for the 2013 season. We are also looking to join another online retailer later this year.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1702052107"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/535667/trop_20vac_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/products/229195-tropical-vacation-bath-salts" target="_blank">Tropical Vacation Bath Salts</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What do you do in your spare time?</b><br />
Ashley loves to crochet. Last year she made me a beautiful round blanket with cork-screw trim (I have named it Rotini). I love to cook, but I am a trained chef, so the cooking works out as a hobby and in the recipe creating process for our products.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?</b><br />
Right now we have two online stores, <b><a href="http://www.wickedwenchsoapworks.com/">www.WickedWenchSoapworks.com</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/">www.wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com</a></b>, we’re in the process of deciding which store we like better and which store our customers prefer. We can also be found at the <i>North Scottsdale Farmers Market</i> on most Saturdays.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1702052116"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/535504/naked2_large.jpg" width="211" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/products/229100-naked-castile-liquid-soap" target="_blank">Naked Castile Liquid Soap</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?</b><br />
Since there are two of us, I think that makes it easier for us to divide the creative and business responsibilities. If I have a week where the business side needs more attention than usual, Ashley steps in so that we can still achieve our goals for that week.<br />
<br />
<b>What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?</b><br />
Do it! For every person in your life that tells you that you are crazy to start your own business, you will find three people that will applaud you for doing it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1702052126"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://dpegb9ebondhq.cloudfront.net/product_photos/523952/orange_202_large.jpg" width="333" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/products/223755-orange-chocolate-truffle-lip-balm" target="_blank">Orange Chocolate Truffle Lip Balm</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">*****</div>Thank you Susan and Ashley for letting us get to know you! For more information be sure to visit <b>Wicked Wench Soapworks</b> at:<br />
<br />
<ul><li><b><a href="http://www.wickedwenchsoapworks.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com/" target="_blank">Storenvy</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/WickedWenchSoap" target="_blank">Facebook</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/wickedwenchsoap" target="_blank">Twitter</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://wickedwenchsoapworks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*****</div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sanikicreations.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Cheng" border="0" src="http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad40/JewelryBySanikiCreations/Banners%20and%20Logos/penny1.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524477664222488450noreply@blogger.com3New Westminster, BC, Canada49.210086 -122.9172090000000149.1786645 -122.95965750000002 49.2415075 -122.87476050000001