Jewelry by Saniki Creations - Blog

Meet Britt Baker of Ideology Handcrafted Jewelry - Featured Artist

2012-02-16T09:30:00.000-08:00

Necklaces, Charms, Earrings and Bracelets, oh my! Today we get to know more about Britt Baker of Ideology Handcrafted Jewelry, Britt is a fellow member of The Artisan Group and her unique style of jewelry is perfect for everyday wear!

Britt Baker, Jewelry Designer

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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!

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
As a child, I remember making various jewelry pieces, such as friendship bracelets, but I can't recall which my very first one was.

Owl Necklace with Tree Agate Gemstone

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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.

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?
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.

Brass Lion Earrings

What inspires you creatively?
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.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
I have wanted my jewelry to become my job, not just a hobby, which it did in less than a years time!

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
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.

Silver Snowflake Bracelet

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
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.

What do you do in your spare time?
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.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I sell my jewelry online in my Etsy shop: http://www.ideology.etsy.com

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

Phoenix Necklace Locket

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
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!

*****

Thank you so much Britt! To find more of Britt's beautiful jewelry creations, be sure to check out her sites below:

Shop
Facebook
Twitter

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Meet Anna Farath of Galaxy Eyes Photography - Featured Artist

2012-02-14T09:30:00.000-08:00

We start of this week getting to know more about Anna Farath of Galaxy Eyes Photography. Anna, who is also a fellow member of The Artisan Group, takes us to a world of simple enchantments with her beautiful and breathtaking images.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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!

I started in 2007 but I only opened a print shop in 2011.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
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.

"Fall"

Every artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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).

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.

"Childhood"

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?
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...

What inspires you creatively?
I'm very inspired by music.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
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.

"Lucky"

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
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.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
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!

"Summertime"

What do you do in your spare time?
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!

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
My work is available on Society6 (art prints, framed prints, stretched canvases and iPhone cases & skins), Etsy and Urban Outfitters.

"Rustic II"

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Be very patient, be persistent and never undervalue your work.

*****

Thank you Anna, be sure to check out all of Anna's links and her shop to purchase her wonderful prints:

Shop (Etsy) - http://www.etsy.com/shop/galaxyeyes
Shop (Society6) - http://society6.com/galaxyeyes
Blog - http://galaxies.tumblr.com
Twitter - http://twitter.com/galaxyeyesphoto
Facebook - http://facebook.com/galaxyeyesphotography
Flickr -http://www.flickr.com/photos/galaxyeyes
Portfolio - http://cargocollective.com/annafarath

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Meet Jessica Taylor of Shaka Soaps - Featured Artist

2012-02-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

Today's featured Artist is Jessica Taylor. A fellow member of The Artisan Group, 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 Shaka Soap

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
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! ;)

Year of the Dragon Soap

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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!

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?
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!

Awa Puhi Lotion

What inspires you creatively?
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.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
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.

Soothing Hawaiian Salve

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
I am a member of an awesome group called The Artisan Group. 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.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
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.

Coconut Hawaiian Lip Butter

What do you do in your spare time?
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!

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I currently sell in four stores: B. Lavish Day Spa and LaTreases's Sassy Scissors in California. Essentially Yours and Starlight 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.

Tahitian Vanilla Hawaiin Sugar Scrub

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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!

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
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.

*****

Thank you Jessica, be sure to indulge yourself in the tropics with Shaka Soap products!

Shop: http://www.shaka-soap.com
Blog: http://www.shaka-blog.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/shaka.soap
Twitter: @shakasoap

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Meet Donna Wilson of Brapples - Featured Artist

2012-02-07T06:47:00.000-08:00

When 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.

My second idea for the project..... well, let's just say that idea has now been done by fellow The Artisan Group member Donna Wilson of Brapples. Interchangeable bra straps that is both functional and decorative.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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.

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.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
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.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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:
http://www.brapples.com/furry-neck-wrap.html
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.

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?
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.

What inspires you creatively?
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.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
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.

What are some of your favorite artists and crafters and why?
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.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
I would love to see my Brapples products in thousands of boutiques and stores across the country.

What do What do you do in your spare time?
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.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
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.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
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.

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.
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.

*****

Thank you Donna! To find out more about Brapples, be sure to visit:

Website
Facebook

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Meet Betty Miller of Magic Senses - Featured Artist

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today, let me introduce to you Betty Miller of Magic Senses. A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Betty's handmade designer vegetable glycerin soaps leaves you feeling soft, fresh, and of course clean.

Betty Miller, Magic Senses

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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!

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
Yes! It was a pink butterfly soap fragranced with Plumeria oil. I still have it. J

Plumeria

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
At Magic Senses, the creative process is a little different with every design but, mainly, this is how it goes:

we fall madly in love with a fragrance;
decide what kind of soap we want to make (signature collection, square, novelty, etc);
brainstorm fun, unique ideas for design and choose color combinations; put them on the drawing board;
narrow down to 2 or 3 designs that best represent the fragrance and make a test batch for each design;
ask for honest feedback from customers;
depending on the feedback, we choose a final design and improve on it, if necessary, till we think it’s perfect.

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?
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!

Two to Tango

What inspires you creatively?
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!

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
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.

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!

Watermelon

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
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!

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
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 The Artisan Group 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.

Mountain Rain

What do you do in your spare time?
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

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
All our soap Collections are available online at www.MagicSenses.com. 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.

Feng Shui Wood

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
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!

Believe in You

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.
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 www.MagicSenses.com and join us on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/MagicSenses) or Twitter (@magicsenses). Thank you so much!

*****

Thank you Betty! Be sure to look for Betty's Magic Senses soaps online at

Website
Facebook
Twitter
Blog

*****

Meet Monica Collins of TG Bears - Featured Artist

2012-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

Who 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.

The bears that Monica Collins of TG Bears makes are loveable and huggable. Handmade from start to finish, each bear is slightly different, never identical.

Monica Collins

Monica is a fellow member of The Artisan Group and I had the pleasure to find out more about her and her bears.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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?

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
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 ?

"Angela"

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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.

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?
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.

"Hernando"

What inspires you creatively?
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

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
I have, thanks to my exclusive membership in The Artisan Group, 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.

"Angels4Epilepsy"

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
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.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
TG Bears is destined for growth in the 2012. I have some goals in place. Keep watch at http://www.tgbears.com for news! But one thing that I have already implemented is flat rate shipping.

"Duty Bear"

What do you do in your spare time?
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.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I don’t display my bears anywhere at this stage.

"Nina"

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
I sell online at http://www.tgbears.com. 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.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Go for it! I heard a good quote the other day: Businesses don’t fail, their owners just quit.

"Daisy"

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.
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.

*****

Thank you Monica!! Be sure to check out TG Bears at the following sites:

*****

Before I go... Monica is having a wonderful Giveaway to celebrate a few milestones TG Bears have reached. The Giveaway starts February 16th and the prize... Well let's just say Monica, fellow Members of The Artisan Group and Myself (Jewelry by Saniki Creations) are donating to the prize which is a swag bag full of handmade goodness worth $1,015.00 USD. Click HERE for more details about the prize and how to enter.

Meet Susan & Ashley White of Wicked Wench Soapworks - Featured Artists

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Chemicals.... 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.

Today we get to know Susan White and Ashley White, sisters, owners and creators of all natural bath products at Wicked Wench Soapworks. Fellow members of The Artisan Group, 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.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
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.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
The first bath & body product we made was our Hemp Seed Oil 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.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
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.

Relaxing Rose Bath Tea

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?
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.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
Since we are a relatively new business, our first online sale was a huge success. In late 2011, we joined a local farmers market (North Scottsdale Farmers Market) and have been received very well. Some of the feedback we have received is leading us to our goal for 2012.

Gingerbread Cookie Bar Soap

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
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.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
Many of our farmers market customers (around 70%) have asked us if we are vendors at the Arizona Renaissance Festival 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.

Tropical Vacation Bath Salts

What do you do in your spare time?
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.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
Right now we have two online stores, www.WickedWenchSoapworks.com and www.wickedwenchsoapworks.storenvy.com, 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 North Scottsdale Farmers Market on most Saturdays.

Naked Castile Liquid Soap

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
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.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
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.

Orange Chocolate Truffle Lip Balm

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Thank you Susan and Ashley for letting us get to know you! For more information be sure to visit Wicked Wench Soapworks at:

Website
Storenvy
Facebook
Twitter
Blog

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Meet Christine Lorenzo of Sari Blue Jewelry - Featured Artist

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Being a Jewelry Designer for a few years now, I can usually spot a designer's niche, a signature touch, to what they produce... In other words, if I see a necklace/earrings/bracelet, most times I can tell you who designed it by what the technique, or materials used.

Christine Lorenzo, Jewelry Artist-SariBlue

One such jewelry designer I can spot right away by looking at a piece is Christine Lorenzo of Sari Blue Jewelry. A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Christine's signature Evil Eye Jewelry Creations is anything but evil. Take a look:

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
SariBlue was established Spring, 2011.
My love for the deep reaching cultural philosophy of the Evil Eye developed more than six years ago when I began traveling to Turkey on a regular basis and feel in love with its art, history, food, and of course its people. I became aware that this new love was strong because the culture was so similar to the Italian culture in which I was raised.

Sometimes, when I share with people that it was as if the Nazar Boncuk spoke to me and it felt like the collection was meant to be, they look at me in a little bit of a strange way…
But I could not be more serious! I had a few futile attempts in the past to create jewelry. Once I started to play with these beads, make a few pieces, it came together so nicely. I truly adore the beads and the history behind them.

I have loved art, music, movies all things creative my entire life, I don’t remember not loving these things. But it is only recently that I have started to have enough confidence in myself to really let go of what holds me back from being creative on my own and not just and appreciator of artistic things.

You & I Dark Blue Glass Earrings

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
Yes, totally. I had tried long before my SariBlue days to make jewelry. It was AWFUL. I mean really bad. I did not have any mojo whatsoever!! I tried to use leather and metal and really awful things to make necklaces. It just did not come together at all, the work did not hold, the piece was ugly. It failed and I was crushed. The first piece I made for SariBlue, however, was much better, I mean it was no masterpiece but it was pretty, it flowed, it made sense for what it was! It did not fall apart, and it felt right. There is something to be said for timing, finding your medium and also your happy place, I feel really lucky.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
I wish I felt like I could. I actually try not to over think it. Most of the other parts of my life are so overthought. The artistic part is where I try very hard to un-think. Although, many of the pieces are symmetrical which I suppose requires thought LOL. What I mean is I don’t like to necessarily have the same process all the time, or even always work in the shop. I will pack up and work other places to see if it gets any news ideas by moving around. Free-form is more the way I like it. Of course the concepts for the collection are already there, but I have other ideas for future concepts once these take off!! Balance and symmetry are part of the notion for the collection along with peacefulness and good intentions so short of that, really the process just comes along…

Gypsy Sky White and Blue Bracelet

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?
Well I think I sort of answered this above  Honestly, it has a lot to do with where I am as a changing person more so than the work. It is timing and finding myself and the ideas just spill right out. When you get rid of your demons and you can look at yourself in the mirror your work is so much better.

What inspires you creatively?
I have said this to other people before, the Evil Eye inspires me. The history of it, the notion of it and the power of it, the positivity you feel. I am a really really passionate person, when I am serious about something or care about something it will engulf my thoughts. Inspiration for me comes from everything, literally I can find it in all things and I really try to help those around me see it as well. That does not mean I am always inspired, I mean there have been weeks and weeks where I feel totally unable to bring it!! But it always comes back! The things in my life that inspire me are: my wonderful girls, music I love music, art in almost any medium, other impassioned positive people, a fantastic movie – normally something that is somewhat melancholic or has a good amount of dark humor, go figure, and generally a good story! I really need to be around others that are passionate and can find things to be inspired by no matter their own story or path. It is a deep dive if you are in a circle of people who look at the world as a place without inspiration.

Ox Blood Moon Earrings
(as gifted to Zooey Deschanel)

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
My work has given me such amazing success this year personally. I really feel comfortable with myself as a business person again which is so rewarding, I have a true sense of calm around my life after a long upheaval, it may seem very silly but my daughters tell me almost daily how proud they are of me and so far this seems to be the most amazing feeling. The creative part of my brain is working all the time and it has enabled many other things to be transformed for me.

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
I have always loved painters, I am drawn to it I think because it is something I just have no talent for at all! I have a slight (ok massive) obsession with Caia Koopman who has this ability to give emotion, and realism to dream like figures. She has also been extraordinarily successful in terms of a business. She has partnered with Oakley and other massive brands that use her art. Very impressive on many levels, j’adore!!! My other favorites are TAG and Etsy artists and for fear of breaking the hearts of any of my friends I plead the fifth. There are so many artists who deserve recognition for the work in their genre and I hope other artists will keep supporting one another as a goal.

One of a Kind Green and Blue Pendant

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
My goals are to continue on this path, continue to work extremely hard and hope this work will put me in the direction of something good. I hope I will be able to do this for a long time.

What do you do in your spare time?
LOL!! There is no spare time for me!! I still have a “real job” for a few hours a week! I have the shop and two small girls, so every moment is filled. No down time for me!!! Which is actually the way I like it!

Baby Belly Bell

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I sell online mostly (via the website, etsy) and during the kind weather at juried artisan fairs.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
This is a hard question to answer and is determined sometimes by the events and activities going on. The ramp up for a new business, any business is a lot, and if the focus is to be a business and not just create for the fun of it (as is my case) much of this year has been spent on the business side more than half my time. I hope once the foundation is strong this will shift a bit.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Be confident. Be certain that what you are starting is something you really love and are not just good at, there needs to be a balance.

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Thank you Christine for sharing your beautiful work to us. For more information and to purchase Christine's signature "Evil Eye" collection visit her at:

Website
Etsy
Facebook
Twitter

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Meet Lucy Chapman of Seasons of Wool - Featured Artist

2012-01-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

In the cold winter months, there's nothing more satisfying than wrapping yourself up with a nice wool blanket, or wearing warm wooly hats and gloves. Today's Featured Artist is Lucy Chapman of Seasons of Wool, a fellow member of The Artisan Group, let's find out how Lucy enjoys her art in keeping us toasty warm.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I taught myself how to knit while in college about 16 years ago. It was a great way to spend the cold Wisconsin winters and make myself something warm in the process. My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was a child, but this was the first time I'd picked up a pair of knitting needles. I felted my first piece when my daughter was a baby, 10 years ago.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
My first knitted piece was an throw. It turned out much skinnier and longer than expected, but I still have it. My first felted knit piece was a pair of slippers. They didn't turn out as expected either. Mostly due to the fact that I hate knitting swatches and test pieces with the yarn. This has often gotten me into trouble. I don't mind though, I learn something from the process every time.

Recycled Felted Sweater Blanket

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
Many of my pieces start with a look through my extremely large stash of yarn and sweaters. I like to keep it fresh and new, so I don't get bored. I usually let the yarn lead me in a direction, rather than pick a project and get the yarn for it. I love putting colors and textures together. If I get stuck, a long walk often helps solidify my plans and ideas. My two girls will also often give me wonderful ideas. They help me put colors together and pick out ribbons and buttons. I love the fact that I'm sharing my love of the craft with them.

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?
I've definitely become better and more efficient at finishing the pieces. My least favorite part has always been the sewing in of linings and attaching of straps. I've learned how to do it more quickly and more professionally. All my pieces definitely have a more finished look than they used to. I also like to keep things fresh and will try new knitting and felting techniques. It keeps things new in the shop and helps me to grow as an artist.

Felted Wool Apple Purse

What inspires you creatively?
I take much of my inspiration from the natural world, both in pattern and in color. When stuck creatively, I take a walk or work in the garden. It helps me to see things in a new way.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
This past year I decided that I was really going to make an effort to transform my business from a hobby to a vocation. I've made huge steps to make that happen. I joined an amazing group of artisans in The Artisan Group, and through that have been able to gift to members of the press at the GBK Productions Gift Lounge at the 2012 Golden Globes. I've had articles written about me in the paper. I've sent out my first press release. I've been stepping outside of my comfort zone to say the least! Through it all, I still manage to love what I do! When I no longer love it, that will be the time to stop.

Felted Wool Cloche Style Striped Bucket Hat

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
Is it corny to say my kids? They are so creative in terms of color and pattern. They are not afraid to try something new. I also come from a long line of artists. My mother is a painter, my father a skilled woodworker. My maternal grandfather was a potter and a talented sketch artist. My maternal grandmother crocheted, worked in stained glass and grew the most amazing flowers. Their fathers were tailors (I have a pair of scissors belonging to one of them). My paternal grandfather was a furniture maker and my maternal grandmother an accomplished knitter. I look around my house and I see things that they have created with love and care. It is a reminder of where I come from and why I do what I do.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
My big goals for this year revolve around getting my name out there and really taking the business to the next level. In the process it will mean becoming better at all those things beyond the creating and into the business side: book keeping, blogging, marketing, etc. I'd like to bring my business to the point where I am really contributing to the household finances, while retaining the love of the craft. Part of that will be participating in more art shows this year and expanding my reach. I'd love to see some of my pieces in some boutiques as well.

Lightweight Charcoal Gray Felted Alpaca Cuffs

What do you do in your spare time?
I have a huge organic garden. In the warmer months, it takes up a large portion of my time. I thoroughly enjoy playing with my family and sharing my passions with them. We go for hikes, explore the outdoors and play games together.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I primarily sell through my website, but also participate in a number of art shows throughout the year.
www.seasonsofwool.etsy.com

Red Polka Dot Bowl in Felted Mohair and Wool

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
It varies from week to week, depending on my workload. I'd much rather spend all my time on the creative side, but know that if I do so, I won't be selling much! I also know that I can't spend all my time on the business side. It's a fine balance that changes from week to week, day to day. That's one of the benefits of having my own business.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Keep good records! Keep track of what you spend and where you buy your materials. It will save you time, money and energy later. Also, don't undervalue what you do. I've heard many artists (myself included) say that they do what they do not to make money, but because they love it. Of course we love it, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't get paid. Undervaluing what you do, hurts not only yourself, but other artists as well. Have pride in what you do. Keep in mind how much it costs to make something and how much time it took you to do it. A third word of advice - don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Learn a new skill or a new technique. Talk to people. Put yourself out there. You never know what can happen.

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Thank you Lucy! Be sure to visit Lucy at the sites below:
Shop: www.seasonsofwool.etsy.com
Website/Portfolio: www.seasonsofwool.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SeasonsOfWool
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SeasonsOfWool
Blog: www.seasonsofwool.blogspot.com

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Meet Nikki Cutro of 13 Black Cats Designs - Featured Artist

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's my pleasure today to feature Nikki Cutro of 13 Black Cats Designs. Nikki's artistic talents consists of beautiful photography, illustrations and hand painted jewelry. Nikki is also the Managing Partner of The Artisan Group.

Nikki Cutro, Artist

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
It was always there. I don't remember a time where I didn't have something in my hand to create, pull apart, refurbish or build. My favorite toys weren't Barbies, they were Legos.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
Yes, it was a picture of chicken soup and it said on top "You make good soup" I made it for my Nana when I was four or five. We used to make soup all the time together. The other one that sticks out in my mind is an acrylic painting I did of my cat. His name was Sylvester and he was a grey tabby with one eye and one ear. He was my best buddy so it was naturalI would paint him.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
That is a hard question that made me giggle a little bit. I am a typical artist that is a bit flighty and has an attention span of a gnat unless it catches my eye to paint. Usually it is an animal, bug, or flower. Then I can stare at it all day until the image is burned in my brain or I can visualize how a particular animal moves. Normally there is no rhyme or reason as to how I create. It just happens, or it doesn't. I never fight it because I find that when I do I am not happy with anything. It is ok if I do not paint for weeks because I know when something is ready to come out it will be good.

I also have a tendency to flit through different mediums. I have been known to paint, bead on a loom, woodwork, light carpentry, silversmith, casting, sew, etch, weave, make baskets, carve, sculpt, pull everything apart to see if I can put it together again and well let us just say if it can be turned into something else I usually have my hands in it.

Hand-painted Floral Alice's Tea Party

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?
It really hasn't changed, for me anyway. I still try new things all the time, revisit things I once did and try to improve techniques I already know. My subject matter has always been natural things. My mind tends to go to the dark side so I always paint light to balance things out.

What inspires you creatively?
Could be anything, a colour, a smell, even the wind inspired a painting or two. A lot of time it is a memory of my past that I interpret in my own
way.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with
your work?
I have met a lot of really talented people in the past few years and it has led me to do some tremendously fun things including showing my work to a whole lot of celebrities. The most important thing though is when I am able to donate my work to a local animal rescue so they can raffle it off to help pay for their operating costs.

Tiger Eyes Hand-Painted Canvas Bronze Necklace

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
I have a few. Otto Dix and George Grosz both for their ability to interpret the things that were going on around them and in Otto's instance, deal with the atrocities he witnessed. Dali is another. I gained a great appreciation of his work after seeing some of his pieces in St Petersburg. He was an amazing, intriguing man and lastly Van Gough. I have grown to have a great respect for him in the past few years and I can relate to him on a personal level. It is funny how you look at a print of a painting and wonder what everyone sees as so special until you get a chance to see the actual painting, the brush strokes and colors and then you just get it.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
I will just be happy if I am always able to paint or create. I think life would be torture without that ability.

What do you do in your spare time?
Spare time? I do not know of this but if I did have such things and the money I would travel all over Europe. I used to like to garden and read. I did read a LOT of books but sadly time gets away now.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I am. I am currently on Zazzle where my main work is located, I have several shops there. I just started a Society 6 shop. I sell cards on Greeting Card Universe and I am also working on a shop on SupaDupa for my hand-painted jewelery. I hope to launch it once the awards shows are
finished.

Vineyard Nymph Hand-painted Necklace

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week
to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
Lately it has been taking a back burner to other life issues but I try to do 50/50 as both are very important and they are done around my "grown up jobs"

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or
start a business in their craft/art?
Be realistic. It is very difficult to make it as an artist even if you have a tremendous amount of skill. Be persistent and develop a thick skin and most of all do it because that is what you love to do.

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Thank you Nikki! Be sure to check out Nikki's

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Tune in next week, we will be featuring the following The Artisan Group member's works and talents: Lucy Chapman (Seasons of Wool), Christine Lorenzo (Sari Blue Jewelry), and Susan White & Ashley White (Wicked Wench Soapworks)

MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge - The Journey Begins

2012-01-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

I have exciting news for everyone!

Through The Artisan Group, One hundred of my Chainmaille Creations to be given out to celebrities that will attend the 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge presented by GBK Productions.

These Creations will be placed in swag bags together with other great Artists who belong to The Artisan Group.

We will also have one of our Creations at The Artisan Group display table during the two day event for photo opportunities with the celebrities who visit.

The MTV Movie Awards date is set for June 3, 2012. The Celebrity Gift Lounge is slated for the same weekend.

Now the fun part.. to prepare all the little jump rings in order to make one hundred gifts. I have already started coiling and cutting wire, then to the tumbler those little rings go. Preparing the rings is a tedious task, in total I will need to make approximately 10,000 rings in various gauges, sizes, and metals.

What exactly am I going to make? Well that's a bit of a secret right now... in the mean time here's a picture of some little rings I will be using,

20 gauge, 5/32" ID Jeweler's Brass

There's approximately 1,200 Jeweler's Brass rings.. and that's only the beginning.

I'll be posting updates of how I'm doing in future posts... Stay tuned!

More information about The Artisan Group can be found at their Website, and follow them on Twitter, too.

Terry Erickson - Artists in the Boro Member - Featured Artist

2012-01-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Using canvases and paints to tell a story, I am pleased to feature Terry Erickson, a fellow member of Artists in the Boro, New Westminster, BC.

Terry Erickson, Artist

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
With both my sisters being so much older, I was pretty much on my own with my mother. I had lots of time to use my imagination and let it take me on an amazing adventure. I got so much enjoyment out of little things like coloured paper, ribbons, coloured pins, crayons and markers. With my two sisters being artists as well as my aunt, the chances were pretty good that I’d find some creative outlet.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
I can’t actually remember my first piece. There were so many from a young age. I painted, I crafted, I sewed (not very well) and then I picked up pencils one summer and started sketching. I tried my hand at watercolours back then and was not very encouraged – I was terrible at it. I’m so glad that I found other mediums I was able to master.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
Inspiration keeps me on the path of creation. There is no subject I favour; my inspiration comes from colours or textures that evoke a response in me at the time. When I think of starting a painting, I am inspired mostly by colour and then by subject matter.

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?
Oil paint is the medium I have had the most pleasure experimenting with, although I do find myself going back to my first love, charcoal drawings from time to time. My work changes constantly - from bright bold colours to dark and moody, from realism to abstract. Since I’ve left myself experiment with different styles, my work has achieved a freedom it lacked earlier.

"Spanish Dancer"
Oil on Canvas, 14x11

What inspires you creatively?
Colour captures my interest and triggers my imagination. Artists don’t paint what is in front of us necessarily; we paint our feelings which are created by what we are seeing. My work has become more of an essential part of my life – cheaper than therapy.

Who are some of your favorite artists and why?
Marion Rose from Chilliwack, BC. Her work was influenced by past masters such as Joaquin Sorolla, Tom Thomson, Carl Rungius, Bob Kuhn and many others that work today in a variety of subject and media. These too are some of my favourites. Texture and rich color were her signature. She encouraged me to start my own website and bolstered my confidence in my work. Unfortunately she fell victim to cancer and passed away November of 2011 but left a legacy of just over 1,000 paintings. Her strength and character will be sorely missed.

Linda Stanway. Not a well know artist, but had more influence than any other. I was inspired to pick up a paint brush by Linda who lent me brushes, paint and canvases and together participated in night classes taught by a local Kelowna artist. She spent many hours with me experimenting with different techniques and as my work reflects, I’m still experimenting; inspired by the beautiful eye-catching scenes and many cultures that B.C. has to offer. Linda was my sister. Sadly, she passed away in 1995 from cancer.

"Lazy Afternoon"
Oil on Canvas, 8x10

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
My biggest goal is to increase the size of my studio so that I can paint larger canvases. My biggest supporter has been my husband and he made me a small studio to enable me to paint more freely and to finally “move my paints off the dining room table”, unfortunately I’ve outgrown it. He promises it will happen one day.

What do you do in your spare time?
What is spare time? Do you mean that time between painting, drawing, art shows, crafting, craft shows, baking, cooking, running a household, not to mention working full time? I think I sleep in those 4 or 5 “spare hours”.

"Figs and Flowers"
Oil on Canvas, 10x8

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
www.terryerickson.ca

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
I spend about 4 hours a week on the business side and try to spend 16 – 20 hours on the creative side. I’m looking into a few other venues and sites to showcase my work.

"Intensity"Oil on Canvas, 20"x16"

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Take the time to do your research if you are planning on making your art your business and keep yourself informed and up to date. Check current trends in your area of art, libraries and online are great resources. Look for art groups in your area, for a great support system. Self promotion, get out there, check with local stores to see if they will carry your art, through a small event at your home, get people buzzing about you. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine, it’s often your best selling point.

Setting out can be very daunting, but if you work hard and simply be yourself, great things are bound to happen. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Always be honest , direct and professional with your clients.

Don’t be afraid to seek out advice from others in your art groups. Sometimes this will save you time and costly mistakes as they have already done a lot of the research and have the experience.

Always carry your business cards with you. Pass them out to anyone who shows the least bit of curiosity about what you do. Don't be shy -- let everyone you meet know what business you are in and how much you enjoy it. It takes a long time to market your business, so the sooner you get started, the sooner you will discover the rewards.

I believe it was Henry Ford who said, "Whether you think you can or whether you think you can't, you're right." If you don't believe it or enjoy it, you can't sell it to others.

*****

Thank you so much Terry! To view and purchase Terry's unique works, visit her online at http://www.terryerickson.ca
(all images in this feature are the property and copyright of Terry Erickson)

*****

*Artists in the Boro is an inclusive group of individual artists from all mediums who reside in the neighbourhood of Queensborough in New Westminster, BC., Canada.

Meet Hena Tayeb of Hena Tayeb Photography - Featured Artist

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today I am pleased to feature Hena Tayeb of Hena Tayeb Photography.

Through her camera lens, Hena's vision of nature and the urban environment is unprecedented. A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Hena takes photos of of the ordinary and transforms them into works of art.

Read on to find out what inspires Hena.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?

I discovered it while in college on my way to being pre law. Many of my friends were artists and it just seemed so much more phone that what I was learning.. so i switched things up and studied graphic design and photography instead. I graduated about four years ago.. I took a year to figure things out.. get married.. move to a different country etc after that I jumped right into selling my work.

Black & White Metal Gate

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

Of the photographs that are currently for sale.. the first I took was this http://www.henatayebphotography.com/#!__art-gallery/autumn-tales/productsstackergalleryv211=2 I took it in Thailand. At that time I was still using film and it was my first time experimenting with black and white. I only recently recovered this when I was at my mother's place sorting through my old things.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?

Mine is quite simple really.. I take photographs.. usually while travelling. We try to travel at least twice a year. The hundreds of photographs taken during that time plus others taken here and there. They are then sorted through and narrowed down. They then go through the first process of editing and are further narrowed down. The ones left go through a second process of editing. Sometimes they are further narrowed down.. what is left. The ones that I think best represent my vision and are of the best quality are then listed for sale.

Portuguese Pillars

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?

I haven't been at it that long.. I have tried doing landscapes and zooming out to take the whole picture rather than zooming in to focus on the details but I am not satisfied with that style and have always gone back to my original view point.

What inspires you creatively?

Everything. I am inspired by the way a chair sits there with the sunlight highlighting its shap. I am inspired by architecture both new and old and the details that we overlook. I love to find patterns and create depth in ordinary scenes and objects. The world is a beautiful place it just depends on how you look at it.

Little Birdhouse on the Pond

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?

I have created a website. I have had the wonderful fortune of exhibiting my work in a gallery and my business card will be included in the swag bags for the 2012 Golden Globes.

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?

It is impossible to choose favorites. There are so many inspiring artist out there. I am always in awe of those who can sew and create such wonders out of a piece of cloth or felt. I am inspired by all the mothers out there who show me that I too can do it.. the work that we do.. creating and crafting is an inspiring occupation and I am just honored to be apart of it.

Tan Twine Balls

Any goals for the future you would like to share?

I would certainly like to get my work shown in more galleries. I also aim to drive a lot more traffic to my website.

What do you do in your spare time?

I spend just about every spare moment with my little boy and my husband.. watching movies, reading books and planning our next trip.

Steam Train

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art. Where?

I sell my photographs on my website http://www.henatayebphotography.com and on Etsy http://www.henatayeb.etsy.com

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?

It varies. When I have a fresh batch of photographs more time is spent editing them.. other times I focus more on the business side. Currently I have two cities worth of editing waiting for me but I have so many marketing/business things in the works that I simply haven't had the time.

Canadian Landscape

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?

Do the research. Be patient, success does not come immediately. You need to give it time and you need to make an effort to bring people to your store. Social Media is your friend, you need to embrace it.

*****

Thank you Hena, your work is inspiring to look at!
Be sure to check out Hena online at her:

(note: All photos in this feature is copyrighted to Hena Tayeb)

*****

Be sure to visit on Friday, January 20th for another great feature with Nikki Cutro of 13 Black Cats Designs who is also the Managing Partner of The Artisan Group

Melissa Montgomery - Artists in the Boro Member - Featured Artist

2012-01-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

Melissa Montgomery is a "Photographic Artist" and is the force behind Melissa Montgomery Photography, a fellow member of *Artists in the Boro in New Westminster, BC. I am thrilled to feature her and her work today.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I've always been creative and had my "head in the clouds" so to speak, but I found my passion in photography when I was pregnant with my first son 8 1/2 years ago. I started taking courses and classes while I was pregnant and once he was born I couldn't get enough of capturing his moments.

Do you remember the first photo you ever made?

The photo that started the idea that this was more than just a hobby was of my boy was when he was three months old, laying on the bed, gorgeous window light flowing on his skin and I knew this passion was going to lead into something more.

Melissa Montgomery, Photographer

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?

A big part of my approach is of course to capture the impromptu moments of your wedding day or family photo session, but I also like to stylize and create a vision that reflects who you are. Sometimes I use props, other accessories and remote locations to emphasize your session, other times it may be the setting and nothing is required. My unique creativity will always be a part of my photography and I strive to create dreamy and romantic fine art images. I love to capture people, their expressions, the moment and shoot in locations that reflects who you are. We create a scene, a vision and then let it come to life.

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?

I've tried allot of different types of photography but have narrowed it down to weddings and lifestyle photography. I love being a part of a wedding and people's lives, there is nothing more magical then capturing the love between a couple or family. Having said that though, capturing the innocence of a newborn or the beauty in a portrait session is as equally fulfilling. My work has changed significantly in the last two years because I breath photography. I update my courses, take workshops, work on my technical skills, upgrade equipment and have a great way of brining out the best in people, especially when they are in front of my lens.

What inspires you creatively?
People. Everyone has a story and I want to capture it.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?

I have been featured on numerous wedding sites last year which not only makes me excited and proud for the recognition, but makes me strive harder to accomplish more for the years to come. Recently featured on: Wedding Bells, One Stylish Bride, Bride & Joy, La Belle Bride, Lucy Dylan Weddings, Wedding Fashion Files, Naughty Monkey (shoes), Delectable Events (cakes).

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?

I love searching the web for photographers who inspire me. Jasmine Starr, Joe Buissink, David Jay, Jinky Art just to name a few, my list really goes on for miles. We all have something to share and I love it when others can share their knowledge on how to get better and teach others in the process. Inspirations is everywhere!

Any goals for the future you would like to share?

So many! I always have set goals in mind. I plan to attend more hands-on workshops this year to get better at my craft. I also attend numerous photography conventions every year. I plan to dive deeper into the art of wedding photography and hope to continue getting recognized and featured for my work.

What do you do in your spare time?
Spare time? Lol…I have two beautiful boys and a husband that continue to inspire and support me. If I am not with them, working or on a photo shoot though you can catch me at the gym, reading a great book, blogging or watching a romance movie. (Hey, I am wedding photographer, can you blame me! I love…love).

Where can we see your work?
Please visit my website or my blog that updated weekly at http://www.photographybymm.com

How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?

The creative side is the pre-planning, getting to know my clients, stylizing a session or a wedding, the pre-scouting of locations and ensuring I have everything in place to create the vision. The business side is everyday. I spend hours doing research, learning, blogging, editing, marketing and all other business related functions that you need to make your business successful. You can take a great and beautiful photograph but if you can't market it properly you're business won't go anywhere. I definitely spend more hours on the business end of things. I love what I do so it really doesn't feel like work! I am so thankful for where I am today.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?

Do it. Take the risk, take the plunge and dive into the art of what you love. Practice, research and get involved. There is nothing more rewarding than accomplishing what you set out to do and in the end you're doing what you love.

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.

Along with photographing your wedding day (or family session), I am also a director and creator so you can concentrate on what is important – each other and absorbing every moment. For wedding photography, I can also refer recommended vendors and offer wedding planning solutions to make your planning easier. It's all in the details! My perfectionism and outstanding organizational skills allows me to be extremely efficient on and during the planning of your beautiful day or other sessions.

Put your trust in me and allow me to create meaningful photographs that will ignite and elicit your emotions but more importantly capture the perfect visual essence of who you are.

*****

Thank you Melissa, your work is amazing.

Be sure to visit Melissa's Website for more information.

Plus be sure to visit her Facebook Page and follow her on Twitter.

(note: All photos in this feature are copyrighted to Melissa Montgomery)

*****

*Artists in the Boro is an inclusive group of individual artists from all mediums who reside in the neighbourhood of Queensborough in New Westminster, BC., Canada. Next featured Artists in the Boro Member will be Terry Erickson on Wednesday, January 18th.

Meet Rebecca Nash of Rebecca Nash Photography - Featured Artist

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Nash of Rebecca Nash Photography is our Featured Artist today. A fellow Canadian and fellow member of The Artisan Group, Rebecca's camera is her muse as she captures moments in time.

Rebecca Nash, Photographer

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?

I have been a hobby photographer since I was a child. I loved photos looking at them and taking them. There was something about that captured moment in time that lured me in.

I began pursuing my passion more seriously after the birth of my daughter. I want to capture everything she did in a way that really conveyed everything that was so exciting and magical about that time in our lives. At the time I was back in college and then working as an Early Childhood Educator. My business (or even the thought of turning this passion into a business) never really happened until I was speaking to parents admiring the photos of their children hanging on my classroom walls. Over and over it became "Wow! I've never seen that good a picture of _____, could you come out to our house and take some photos?"Pretty soon it was clear that this was going to be the way I could incorperate my passion for photography and my joy of spending time with people into my dream job!

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

The first set of portraits I was paid for I did a 2 hour on location shoot and only charged $50 including prints and a disk! My first Fine Art Piece I sold for only $10

"Amazing Orchid" 16x24 Gallery Wrap

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
Wow...thats a tough one. It really depends on what kind of project I'm working on but I guess the basic overall process would be:

1) Deciding on the subject - sometimes it's commisioned and this isn't my option but other times it's finding something that really speaks to me

2) What kind of tone do I want to create or emotion do I want to evoke? This really helps shape the direction I take with a piece

3) Scout out locations and props - I will drive/walk around town looking for locations, browsing through stores for complimentary items to my subject and purpose of the photo

4) I sit down and sketch out ideas of things to try with notes of different possibilities - This is always in my back pocket - sometimes I'm really inspired and never touch it but sometimes it helps me step outside the box and get the creative juices flowing

5) Setup lighting, subject and start shooting!

6) Download and back up every image

7) Start sorting images - I have a rating scale I use to help me narrow down the one image of the subject that really captures my goals and any other images that have interesting potential

8) If I'm happy with the image it gets printed and starts appearing online - if I just havent got the shot I want I repeat step 4-7 as many times as needed!

Rebecca Nash Photography

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?

When I first started shooting I would shoot anyone or anything that would get in front of my camera. I hadn't figured out yet what things that made me most excited and what I had an eye for. Don't get me wrong I love looking at landscape and wildlife photography but this just wasn't for me...my heart wasn't in it and my images were just mediocre. They didn't tell the story I wanted. For me I need those people or things that tell a story for me to be able to put my passion into it.

"Antique Rose" 6x9 Photo Paper Print

What inspires you creatively?

Inspiration comes from all around me! It's the music I listen to, the books I read, the shows I watch, my everyday life, watching my daughter, talking to people...anything! It's all about people, stories, emotions, and connections for me.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
Some of my greatest goals I've achieved thus far include selling my first fine art piece, building a collection of pieces which could form an online store & collection, building my own website, and being hired to photograph the wedding of a stranger (they aren't doing it to be nice, they honestly enjoy what you do!).

Rebecca Nash Photography

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
A few of my favorite artists would definately include Jay Maisel, Cliff Mautner, Jeremy Cowart, David Zisers, Monet, Divinci. They all have found their way to capture a moment in time not simply as a frozen moment but as a piece of art which evokes emotion, thought, conversation, and/or contemplation. This is while I aspire to achieve in my own work.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?

Some of my biggest goals including continuing to build my collection of fine art images, creating an off site studio, photographing celebrity portraits or weddings, and publishing a book of images, among others. I'm a dreamer and there will always be another dream to work towards.

"Floral Radience" 8x12 Fine Art Paper Print

What do you do in your spare time?

Spare time? What's that? More seriously, in my spare time I spend as much time as possible with my family - they are the joy of my life! I also spend time reading, hiking, camping, shopping, and writing whenever I can.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?

At the moment my artwork is only for sale through my website at www.rebeccanashphotography.com but I'm working on an upcoming Gallery Exhibit and hope to have prints available throughout the tour and various galleries.

Rebecca Nash Photography

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
Unfortunately, lately more of my time has been spent on the business side of things, probably about 75% of the hours I work. Now that the online store is set up I look forward to getting back behind the camera more often.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Follow your passion, learn everything you can, find a great support system, and reach for the stars! It's always scary starting out but if you have a team of supporters behind you, a true passion for what you do, and are willing to ask for help or advice from others when you need it then anything is possible!

"This Old Fence" 16x24 Fine Art Paper Print

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.

I'm a stickler for quality of product that I'm offering and for this reason I've now taken the whole process into my own hands. All prints and gallery wraps are created in my home office/studio. This way I know that what I'm sending out is something that I'm truely proud of!

*****

Thank you Rebecca for sharing your art to the world. More information about Rebecca Nash Photography can be found:

Website
Facebook
Twitter

*****

Meet Libbi Shorts of Mt Baldy Glassworks - Featured Artist

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today I would like to introduce Libbi Shorts of Mt. Baldy Glassworks.

Red and White Fused Glass Wind Chime

Pink and Black Business Card Holder

A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Libbi's designs are extraordinary by fusing Dichroic glass and art glass to become gorgeous jewelry pieces and works of art for the home.

Mt Baldy Glassworks, designs by Libbi Shorts

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?

Well, about 7 years ago I was taking a jewelry class to learn to make bezel settings. The "jewels" we were setting were fused dichroic glass. I was fascinated with them! I found a teacher and took a few classes. Then I bought my first kiln. It sat for a few months in my garage because I was afraid I would burn the house down if I plugged it in!

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

Yes! In that first class we put pieces of different glasses together in the kiln. A week later I picked them up and took them home. I had a dinner party that night and we passed around my paper plate of beautiful small glass items. I didn't even know how to dill a hole yet, so I was not yet able to make these pieces into pendants. But, I still loved them. I wonder if they are still around here somewhere? LOL

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?

I tend to see things I like, and then try to figure out if I can do it in glass. Or, I may get an idea, and wonder if I can make the idea come to life. You know ... make reality match what is in my minds eye. Sometimes, the best things come out of my mistakes. The other day I tried to make a heart that had a break line in it.. and a bubble formed... then the whole bit fused back together again. So I ended up with a red heart with a transparent bubble in the center. I love it! And I do not think I can repeat it.

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?

I started in watercolor. In fact, my son keeps suggesting I should go back to it. After water color I dabbled in pastels. I love doing close up flowers in pastels and I love doing portrait work in pastels. One day I decided to make a bracelet that was in a magazine with directions. In about an hours time I had this beautiful bead and sterling silver bracelet, THAT I HAD MADE. I was hooked. I took classes on soldering and made rings and earrings, I took beading classes, and finally I took a beginning fusing class. Now I give beginning fusing classes to others!

What inspires you creatively?

Nature inspires me. Other art forms inspire me. Just being in my studio for extended amounts of time seems to unlock new ideas. Just the fact of manifesting a thought or idea into a physical reality thrills me!

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?

Taking my show on the road, doing craft fairs. That was such a scary thing for me to do. Filling out applications and waiting to see if I wold get accepted. but the pay off was fantastic! I remember feeling like I was floating that first day. People complemented my work. The liked it and they liked me. I felt like Sally Fields ... you like me, you like me, you REALLY like me. LOL

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?

Patti Gray because she is a fantastic fused glass artist and an even better teacher.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?

Oh yes. I dream of having a celeb pick up one of my fused glass tea light holders and realize they are the PERFECT item to use as favors at the huge party they are planning. Also, I would love to get a commission to do a large instillation at a public building, like a library or hospital or court house..

What do you do in your spare time?

I read, and enjoy my wonderful husband and scruffy dog and sleek cat! Really though, I do not have much spare time, as I am dedicating so much time to social media and my Etsy shop.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?

In the past I have displayed at Malibu Art Fair, Topannga Days, Harvest Festivals in Long Beach, San Diego and Pomona, Ojai Lavender Festival, Los Gatos. My goal this year is to get accepted to the Art Affaire in Laguna Beach.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?

Much more time is spent on the business side than in the creative process. Probably 4 to 1.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?

Open an online shop and join with groups of others who can mentor you and help you learn the ins and outs.

*****

Thank you so much Libbi! Here are the sites you can find Libbi and her gorgeous work:

Shop
Facebook
Twitter

*****

Thank you everyone for reading, be sure to check back on Monday as we feature another member of The Artisan Group, plus a member of Artists in the Boro,

Meet Cami Tout of Camilee Designs - Featured Artist

2012-01-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous Gemstones and Fine Metals are used to create the unique jewelry designed by Cami Tout of Camilee Designs. Cami is a fellow member of The Artisan Group and I am thrilled to feature her beautiful work and a bit about Cami today.

Cami Tout, Designer

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?

I started making jewelry in 2000. I was living in downtown Portland, OR working as a telecommunications analyst for a big bank. At the time I felt overwhelmed by job and I was looking for creative outlets. I’ve always been crafty, but something felt different to me about making jewelry. I wanted to know all about it and be great at it all at once.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
As a gift, my husband, then boyfriend, bought me a Swarovski crystal necklace and earring set from Nordstrom. One day while shopping I spotted the necklace and peeked at the price tag and was shocked and a little horrified since we were in our early 20s and definitely couldn’t afford those luxuries! I went on a mission to re-create that set. I bought some jewelry making books and magazines and browsed local bead stores for hours, and spent some time googling – although there wasn’t that much info back in the olden days! After replicating the Swarovski set (For about 5% of the price) I went on to develop my own style. About a year later I opened Camilee Designs and with my husband’s encouragement, left my job at the bank 2 months later to focus on my business full time.

Ruby and Garnet Mini Mosaic Pendant

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
I create in my home studio, which looks like a train wreck most of the time. It is functionally perfect - everything is out in the open for me to reach for when I get inspired, and when I don’t have time to clean up (which I never do!) I just shut the door behind me…haha! Now that I have it where I want it functionally, I’m working on making my studio more beautiful. I get terrible artist block (or whatever you call lack of inspiration for a crafter). All of my ideas come flooding in all at once so I keep a design journal for when that happens and it is my go-to for inspiration during dry spells.

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?
When I first started making jewelry I was into really chunky pieces with big pendants. Now, my line is very delicate. Honestly, I feel like I am always searching for what resonates with me. I feel like I find it for a while and then get bored or change my mind and move on.

sterling silver basset hound necklace - live long

What inspires you creatively?
I find a lot of inspiration in color combinations and patterns in textiles. I think my best ideas have come from browsing through wallpaper books or looking at bedding sets. Inspiration can come from the wackiest places for me – a video game, shopping for nail polish, or sometimes just out of thin air.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
The most important part of being a maker for me is to be able to offer something that is authentic, original, and truly mine. I feel like I am always striving for that, but intermixed with my classic pieces, I have some original pieces and lines that I’m really proud of right now.

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
Have you checked out The Artisan Group? ;) I am in awe on a daily basis. I admire so many crafters – especially the ones that are very skilled at what they do and have a cohesive look about their branding/product.

Mom Necklace - Sterling Silver Flower Bouquet Engraved w/4 Charms
(pictured is a Personalized Celebrity Gift sent to Jessica Alba via The Artisan Group)

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
I have 2 retail opportunities and a wholesale opportunity that I would really like to make happen. My goal for this year is to have more time to produce new items so that I can make them a reality!

What do you do in your spare time?
Up until a few months ago when I injured myself I spent a lot of my spare time running. I’m hoping that I can start up again! I spend a lot of time doing crafts with my daughter who is 4 and during the growing season I love to tend to my vegetable garden. I also really, really enjoy red wine, really.

Cami and her adorable daugher

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I sell on Etsy at camileedesigns.etsy.com I also sell my jewelry at a great local shop called Elizabeth’s House of Wax.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
On an average week I spend about 10 hours/week on the creative side of my business: designing and creating items and about 10 hours/week on the business side of my business: photographing and listing new items, buying materials, marketing, facebook, twitter, etc. When my daughter starts school full time I hope to get back to a full time schedule! J

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
It takes a lot of time! It takes a lot of patience! It can be very emotional at times to share your art with the world, but there is no job I would trade it for!

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.
Find me on facebook at: www.facebook.com/camileedesigns
I love to tweet: www.twitter.com/camileedesigns

*****

Thank you Cami! Be sure to also follow Cami's BLOG!

*****

Until next time, thank you everyone for reading about this talented artist. Come back Friday, January 13, 2012 for our Feature of Libbi Shorts of Mt. Baldy Glassworks.

Meet Debrah Block-Krol of DBK Designs - Featured Artist

2012-01-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today it is my pleasure to introduce a fellow SRAJD and The Artisan Group member: Debrah Block-Krol. Debrah is the creative force behind DBK Designs.

Debrah Block-Krol

Wire Mesh Jewelry, Polymer and Gemstone Jewelry, Hand-Dyed Scarves, plus Hand-Knitted Gauntlets (aka Fingerless Gloves) adorn her shop and website.

edgy and elegant pearl and leather mesh cuff

carribean aqua blue scarf

chic opal earrings

Let's get to know Debrah further....

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?

I have always loved art and creating things since I can remember-

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

My mother taught me to sew at a very young age. I had one of those children’s antique singer sewing machine (wish I still had it!)—when I was 4 or 5, my mom was making a suit from a small blue and black houndstooth wool fabric..she gave me a scrap, and I made a tiny little purse from it. We were at my grandmother’s house and I remember how I proudly showed it off to my mom and grandmother.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?

I just see things in my mind’s eye..i will get an idea and I can see the finished project...it makes me want to get started on things right away even if it is the middle of the night.

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?

I have a degree in fine art arts in painting from Rutgers university, and I love the sensuality of painting, but I am naturally drawn to textiles. And I love color—I had a business prior to this knitting colorful item such as hats sweaters, pillows..i said it was akin to painting with yarn. I started this particular iteration of my business with hand dyed and woven cotton scarves....i progressed to working with mesh and gemstones, have tried out polemer clay, and I am now hand dyeing and felting wool and silk scarves.

The hand dyed wools I use are explosively colorful..back to painting with wool! I hope I keep on evolving and growing.

handknit cashmere fingerless gloves

What inspires you creatively?

Pretty much everything around me—love music, nature, words, dance, especially ballet, fine art….

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?

When I started I wanted to get my work out there, have it appreciated and feel validated. I think I have achieved that, but it is important to keep going--

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?

One of favorite crafters is my cousin Donna Greenberg---she is an artist and polymer clay designer, and is inventive and has endless creativity and ideas….
also love Kandinsky, Matisse—again the colors and compositions are what draw me in- fine art is the mother lode of inspiration-

I have to give props to my fellow artisans at The Artisan Group. They are an incredibly diverse and talented bunch. I love seeing their works.

rainy day watercolor ribbon cuff

Any goals for the future you would like to share?

I would like to continue to grow my business and keep creating.

What do you do in your spare time?

What is spare time?! Don’t have any-

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?

Aside from my website and shop on etsy, I am represented by about 20 galleries and shops nationally.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?

I would say 20% business and 80% creative, which of course is the part I prefer and love….

textured silver disk earrings with turquoise pearls

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?

Just start! And be persistent, if you don’t promote yourself no one else will. I am naturally shy so I would say push beyond your comfort zone…

If there is anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.

Thanks for this opportunity-

*****

Thank you Debrah! Be sure to check out Debrah's WEBSITE where you can find her beautiful collection of handmade artistic Jewelry and Scarves.

To purchase any of her gorgeous creations, visit her Etsy Shop or at her new Online Store.

Be sure to also follow Debrah via Facebook and Twitter, too.

*****

Come back on Wednesday, January 11th, 2012 for our interview with Cami Tout of Camilee Designs.

Until then, take care!

It's a Brand New Year-Happy 2012!

2012-01-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

Here at Jewelry by Saniki Creations, my family and I hope you had a fabulous holiday filled with love, cheer and friendships. Now that 2012 has arrived. It's time to buckle down and start the year right.

Last year, there was a few changes to my Website in which now I am totally satisfied and pleased with the results now. Because I redid it from scratch, I don't think I ever want to see another computer code or script ever again. So rest assured there will be no more changes to the site and the new shopping platform I've implemented will be smooth and streamline for your shopping pleasure.

Design wise, I've been planning different ways to make my Chainmaille more, how would you put it, mainstream. I think this will be a constant work-in-progress for me in the area I live in. I love the sparkly bling bling which is still very dominate here, but do not want to classify myself as "everyone else", so I just don't create that style. A couple of posts back I've mentioned the Tree of Life series... my pliers, the wire and stones are ready for me to start production on those. I will also be adding more earring styles and have already added a few more finger ring designs.

I am currently toying with the idea of having my design go into a few retail boutiques and galleries. My statement remains the same that I will not mass produce my signature pieces, so finding a suitable place that will accept only a few select one of a kind designs will probably take some time to accomplish. I will keep you all posted as I move my little company forward.

~ FEATURED ARTIST INTERVIEWS ~

As my website already has a "Latest News" module for me to conveniently update what's happening with Jewelry by Saniki Creations in relation to Promotions/Sales/New Products. I decided to only post about super duper sales going on or really cool news about the store or me personally that needs a good shout out to the world in this blog.

But to keep you all interested in coming back, I plan on starting up my Featured Artist segment again.

I have met a lot of wonderful and talented Artists last year through The Artisan Group in which I am a member. So I will be featuring their talents. Plus I will also be featuring my dear Artist friends at Artists in the Boro, whom I have mentioned a couple of posts back.

The first Feature is scheduled for Monday, January 9th. Stay tuned!

Until next time, remember "Support an Artist today!"

Let's Go Shopping

2011-11-23T12:00:00.000-08:00

It's that wonderful time of year where we decorate trees and homes and little (or big) packages to give to our family and friends, oh and co-workers too.

In Canada, I don't believe we have a "Black Friday" like our American friends, but that doesn't mean we should lose out when we're online shopping.

My Shop will be having a sale starting tomorrow, November 24, 2011, and ends on November 29, 2011. I don't usually have sales, but hey, it's holiday time!

Save 15% off your total purchase on everything in the Store (except the Jewelry of the Month Club categories). Just enter Discount Code "shop15" at checkout. Jewelry by Saniki Creations are all handmade by me, from Chainmaille to Beaded creations. There something for everyone. Visit my SITE and have fun browsing! If you have any questions you know you can always Contact Me. I love hearing from customers!

Another great place to see what handmade goodies are available for gifting is from the talented Artists of The Artisan Group. Come check out their Holiday Gift Guide on Pininterest. From babies to pets to home and of course.. bling. I'm sure there's a few things to add to your wish list.

Until next time... Remember to Support Your Local Artist and buy Handmade! Happy Shopping!

Artists in the Boro and Me.

2011-11-21T12:17:00.001-08:00

Wow. I never realized my last post was back in June. I have really neglected this blog didn't I?

With the summer now over, the kids settled into school, and it's just way too cold now to play outside, I can now spend more time in front of this computer. The past few months have been a little crazy. I think I changed my website at least three times in search of a better web host, shopping cart format, and a template I actually will enjoy staring at, plus the cost of running the site had to be financially feasible for me. Well I am happy to report that there should be no more changes going on and the new site is now at full swing. If you haven't done so already, come see what I've done, just click HERE.

I've been working on more Chainmaille ideas and started creating Wall Art/Decor/Suncatchers. Not my usual jewelry but I thought expanding my horizons a bit and seeing where it will take me was a good idea. So far I would say my favorite is what I call the Tree of Life Series. They make lovely decorations and when miniaturised, lovely pendants. For the next little while, I will be working on a few more of these with variations in the weaves, metal and types of stones.

Besides playing with new ideas and torturing myself with computer codes and scripts. I've been busy with my membership affiliation with Artists in the Boro. Who are they? Formed in January of this year, they are an inclusive group of artists with diverse medium specialities living in the community of Queensborough in New Westminster, BC. (my "hood") Together the group helps promote, educate and celebrate the talents of the individual artist through monthly meetings and participating in special events around town. Our last event was a special fundraiser so the group can have a little capital to use for participating in special events/trade shows/craft fairs, supplies needed and things to run an organisation. This was a wonderful turnout with door prizes, a silent auction (which were donations by our fellow artists, family, friends and business associates) and a 50/50 draw. Each month we also showcase some wonderful artwork from different members at the Queensborough Community Centre.

The members of Artists in the Boro are truly a talented bunch and I am so thrilled to have learned a bit of something from each one of them.

To find out more about this group. Check out their Website, follow them on Twitter, or visit their Facebook Page.

Back to my pliers and little rings.. until next time (and hopefully not to long from now), thanks for reading!

Fun with QR Codes

2011-06-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

I recently discovered this wonderful little technology called QR Codes.

For those who don't know. A QR Code (aka Quick Response Code) is a 2 dimensional matrix barcode which is readable by using the QR Code Reader (a phone app typically that uses the camera). The code is made up of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can be text, URL, sms, VCard or other data.

All codes are unique and there are alot of sites on the web that can help you generate your own QR Code. There's also a few sites that can decode them online, but it's more fun using the phone.

Getting the QR Reader app for your phone is easy, check out Percentmobile as they have a long list of phone manufacturers for you to choose from. If your phone is an Android, like mine, you can visit the Android Market and download one from there. I believe the IPhone already has the app installed. If not, go to their app store.

Now the fun part... QR Codes are a dandy way of promoting/marketing.... Right now I have a Promotion for 20% Discount off purchases made at my main Website. In order to find out what the Discount Code is (to be entered at checkout), you must decode the QR Code I have made...

This code expires June 30, 2011.

QR codes are rather new (though quite popular in Japan I've heard), but I believe it will become more mainstream in the future (like our regular barcodes).

Until next time....

Search for the Creative Fairy Contest

2011-04-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

*** UPDATE ***

There will be 3 Consolation Prizes consisting of 25% Off Gift Vouchers also to be won!!

Jewelry by Saniki Creations has a bit of a problem and I need your help. My Creative Fairy, Sparkles Tangerine, has decided she didn't want to work and is hiding out somewhere within the website store at http://www.sanikicreations.com. With 3 kids, a dog, and a hubby to deal with, I just don't have the time to hunt her down. This is where you come in...

Rumour has it that Sparkles has been hiding in different pages of the website on a daily basis, your task is to find her everyday for the next 7 days, starting April 29, 2011, and mark down which pages she made an appearance.

Your task will not go unrewarded... A winner that states the correct locations of this mischievous Fairy will receive a special chainmaille bracelet made by me. (see picture of prize below)

Stainless Steel Sweetpea Variant Chainmaille Weave, 18 gauge, Size 7.5" (19cm)

If you are want in on this contest, comment on this post that you want to participate, do not post her locations here, keep it to yourself until a winner is drawn.

How to Participate:

Comment on this post that you want to participate in this contest. Deadline is May 2, 2011 to enter.
Go to my Website everyday and look through the website's different pages. If you see the fairy (pictured at the top of this post), write down the day she was spotted and the site's page on a piece of paper. Be sure to keep the location to yourself.

Here are the rules and "fine print" of this contest below:

Contest is open to anyone Worldwide.
No purchase necessary to participate.
Must be over 18 years old.
Deadline to enter contest is May 2, 2011.
Contest starts on Friday, April 29, 2011 and ends on Friday, May 6, 2011 at 12:00am Pacific Standard Time.
All participants will be put on a list and a name will be randomly drawn, the name drawn will be contacted for the answers to the whereabouts of the Fairy. If the person does not have the correct locations, another name will be drawn and the process will be repeated until a winner is verified.
Name(s) drawn will take place on Friday, May 6, 2011 at 5:00pm Pacific Standard Time.
Main prize valued $47.00USD, three consecutive prizes consisting of a Gift Voucher valued at 25% off purchases will also be made

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Good luck to everyone and happy hunting!

Welcome the Year of the Rabbit ~ Gung Hei Fat Choi

2011-02-02T10:54:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to take this moment in our busy life to wish all my friends a very Happy Chinese New Year.

This year we celebrate the year of the Rabbit and the celebrations start on February 3rd. Those born in the years: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011 share the sign of the quiet bunny.

To find out more information about the characteristics of people born in the Rabbit year, click HERE

So what do you do to celebrate?

Chinese New Year lasts 15 days... here's the load down of what is traditionally done for each day:

Day One, New Year's Day (the first day of the first lunar month):
Traditionally, one welcomes the gods from the heaven and earth. Ming and Qing emperors would perform a grand ceremony at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. But nowadays:

Elders give children ya sui, or gifts of money. The money is put into a lovely red envelope, called a hong bao, that is usually decorated with new year's wishes, and given to happy children. (Adults gets the red envelopes too, as long as they are NOT married)
Some Chinese might give up meat for the day. (I love my meat too much.. this I would not do)
No one cleans! Cleaning on New Year's Day is serious bad luck, you might sweep all the good fortune out the door. (I don't mind this at all, however my better half has a problem with it)
Also parents let their kids stay up waaaaaay late. It is said it will help with the parents longevity.

Day Two: Prayers to ancestors are added to prayers to the gods. It's believed that this day is the birthday of all dogs, so it's better to be extra kind to dogs on this day as well. (My own dog, Corki, will love this as she will get an extra treat)

Days Three & Four: Sons-in-laws pay respect to their in-law families.

Day Five: Everyone stays home to wait for and welcome the God of Wealth. It's bad luck to visit anyone on this day.

Day Six to Ten: Families go out to visit relatives and friends.

Day Seven: It's a special day for farmers and it's also supposed to be the birthday of all mankind. Eating noodles is traditional to ensure long life. (The longer the noodles, the better)

Day Ten to Twelve: Now that the visiting is over, it's time to invite family and friends over for dinner.

Day Thirteen: Finally! A break in the lavish meals! One is supposed to eat simply on the thirteenth day of New Year.

Day Fourteen: Time to prepare for day Fifteen, the Lantern Festival.

Day Fifteen: Yuanxiao, or Lantern Festival. The Lantern Festival, celebrated on the night of the first full moon, also marks the end of the Chinese New Year holiday period. Chinese people light lanterns, play riddle games and eat sticky rice balls.

So there you go... that's alot of partying going on...

Welcome 2011... Here's what's we're planning!

2011-01-02T21:24:00.000-08:00

Farewell 2010, It was nice knowing ya! Hello 2011, a brand new year with brand new ideas...

This January we are celebrating our 2 Year Anniversary. We like to call it our toddler stage, but definately not our terrible twos. We are looking forward to another year of creating more designs. Through feedback from our local customers, and what we've seen at our recent outings at the craft fairs/trade shows, plus a little bit of research (some might call spying) of what other jewelry designers are doing in my area, within the next six months, we will slowly phase out our beaded jewelry and our Children's Jewelry sections and work on increasing our chainmaille category, so be on the look out for some insane clearance deals...

This January, we are also introducing our Earrings of the Month and Bracelet of the Month clubs. I, for one, love to receive packages in the mail. It's almost like Christmas all over again. With this concept, I will personally design and make specific pieces that will be sent out for club members. Designs will vary and you will never receive the same thing twice.

Be sure to leave us a comment to say "Hello" or to tell us what you think we could do to make our site more user friendly in our Guest Book section of our site. We are always looking for feedback from everyone!

Until next time, have a wonderful January, enjoy your loved ones and stay tuned for more news from us!

Get the Reindeer Dust ready

2010-12-20T23:44:00.000-08:00

As Christmas day draws near, be sure to help guide those reindeer to your house with this easy little recipe for Reindeer Dust.

Oatmeal or Wild Birdseed
Glitter or Coloured Sugar or Sprinkles (for baking)
Baggies or jars

Just mix some Oatmeal/Wild Bird Seed with the Glitter (or coloured sugar or sprinkles), place in baggies or jars and on Christmas Eve, sprinkle the dust around outside.

At my house, we (myself and my daughters) stand in our backyard and evoke the spirits of the North, East, South and West to bless the dust and to help the reindeer come to our place before we sprinkle a makeshift runway on the grass.

So far the reindeer has been able to find us with now problems.

We will remember.......

2010-11-11T06:29:00.000-08:00

Every year on November 11th, on the 11th hour, we in Canada fall silent to honour the people who had fought for us in the Great War (1914-1918), also known as World War 1, so we may live in peace. We also honour those who had served our country for so many wars and conflicts after....

I will always remember the sacrifices made, the lives lost, so myself and my family can say we are truly free.

In Flanders Fields

by John McCrae, May 1915

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Boo!

2010-10-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

Halloween is tomorrow.. Be safe and remember to watch out for the little trick n treaters running around in the neighbourhood.

I also mustn't forget my fellow Pagans/Wiccans out there in cyberspace... Blessed Samhain to you all.

We had loads of fun in our 1000th Fan Giveaway on our Facebook Page last night. Congrats goes to our winners who was able to answer our riddles first in record time:

Kim S. who won the Centipede Chainmaille Bracelet
and
Christina E. who won the $25.00 Gift Certificate

We enjoyed ourselves so much doing the Giveaway that we (well actually me, since I'm a one person operation) decided to hold monthy giveaways. Prizes will either consist of one of a kind items made specifically for the giveaway, or gift certificates to be redeemed on our main website.

Closer to the dates of the giveaways, I will be posting up what's for grabs in the Facebook page and here and details of how to enter.

Have a wonderful weekend, dear friends!

We have reached 1000 Facebook Fans!

2010-10-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

To celebrate reaching a major milestone of 1000 fans on Facebook. We will be doing a Giveaway on Friday, October 29, 2010.

One lucky winner will receive this lovely Centipede Weave chainmaille bracelet.

All you need to do is to be the first to correctly answer a riddle that I will post on my Fan Page on Friday. For more details, please go to my Fan Page, under the Discussions Tab, and click ~~~Contests & Giveaways~~~. Only rule is you need to be ready on Friday and a Fan of my Page.

Good luck All.

Save 40% Off - On Now!!!

2010-09-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

I decided to extend the Birthday Sale until Monday, September 13, 2010.

Save 40% off entire inventory!!

ONE DAY ONLY BIRTHDAY SALE!!!

2010-09-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

Celebrate my 40th Birthday with me!! Come visit my shop and see the latest goodies I have added into inventory, and for one day only, 40% off entire inventory (excludes shipping).

Sale ends late Friday, September 10, 2010.

Mommaprenuer: Penny Cheng, Jewelry by Saniki Creations

2010-06-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

A couple of months back I answered a few questions from Cafe Handmade about being a Mom with a business in their Mommaprenuer Feature. Come read what I had to say and remember to Vote for Me plus leave a comment, too.

Click the link below:

Mommaprenuer: Penny Cheng, Jewelry by Saniki Creations

Featured Artist Special ~ Meet Payton Jett

2010-06-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

I love glass lampwork beads, especially if I can somehow use it to make pretty jewelry or to keep for my personal stash. As I was building up my Facebook Fan page back in January of this year, my 125th fan was this wonderful glass artist, Payton Jett. From just being a fan to being a friend, I got to know this lovely woman and her joy of what I would describe as setting rods of glass on fire until it melts and molding it to become a spectacular piece of art. I know it's a little more complicated than that and I would never attempt to play with fire, mainly because with three kids, a dog and a husband running around, I'm bound to set something other than the glass on fire.

So let's get to know about this ever so talented Artist, here's my interview with Payton.

How and when did you start making your craft as a business?
I started lampworking in October of 2006, I think I officially started my business in July of 2007. That's when I established a .com and also started to sell online.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
I do; it was big and ugly and had a lot of primary colors. My beads were big even back then lol.

Ingot Lampwork Focal

Every artist has a personal “creative process”, can you explain yours?
I can try. The creative process never really stops or starts. It's very integrated into my daily life. I will see a color, pattern or design and say "that could be a bead" or the best "bead moments" happen when I'm falling asleep.. there is that little half-lucid time between actually being asleep and sorta falling asleep when the ideas start to flood my brain. I have a notebook next to my bedside just for that reason.

But if I were to give you the process lets say before I actually sit down to make glass then it would be to take a few hours and sit with magazines, bead books or to go on the internet and look at art. My brain starts to swirl and the designs start to come and I always write them down. I do until I can no longer sit still and I have to try my new idea. New ideas can be hard because I might spend an entire 10 hour session trying to get it just right but it's always worth it. By the time I am done I have learned something new and created (usually) beautiful, one of a kind art!

Nero Owl

When people start doing their 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?
My work is ever-evolving and changing. I used to think that I wanted to try to find a "signature piece" and then realized that a big part of who I am is that you can always expect the unexpected from me. Part of my business mantra is "uncommonly beautiful and always handmade" and I think I live up to that for the most part. I do make my fair share of "garden art" ;)

How many hours a week do you spend in the creative side vs the business side?
My week is a good 50-50 split. I am thankful for that as I need a lot of variety. I wouldn't be happy just making glass nor would I be satisfied with just web design or listing or doing all the other things that come with this business.

Sin Focal

What inspires you creatively?
Quite honestly most anything and everything. I really pull a lot of what I do from nature and my surroundings. I love to go places and let the images I see inspire me. I might just go down to a culturally rich part of the city and walk the streets to find something to obsess over in terms of design or I can simply take a nice long bike ride and find that I'm turning around to go back home and draw.

Where do you sell?
I sell at Artfire and Etsy mainly. I do have a ShopEnvy store and 1000 Markets as well but I've had better luck at Artfire and Etsy.

Inner Goddess

Kalie Pendant

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
My work has lent its self to who I am as a person overall. When I first started in this business I was really nervous and insecure about who I was as an artist. I had a lot of growing up to do and I feel I owe it mainly to my glass and silver work. I was too shy to even show people my pieces or try to sell it when I started out but over time I have learned so much about what it is to be an artist and how "baring your soul" can be freeing.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested or starting out a business?
I have no one "pat answer" to this but if I were to try to give good, sound advice I would have to say that you really need to be open to learning as much as you can. Keep your eyes open and your finger on the heartbeat of your community to learn where the trends are going and also how to be a good business person. I feel like I had some basic instincts starting out but most of what I learned, that seems really important to me now, I learned from trial and error. Being humble and open to lessons is very important.

Patina Bird

Who are some of your favorite artists and crafters?
Quite honestly I find something I love/like in everyone's art. I love it all. It all inspires me on a daily basis. I'm very fortunate to be a part of this big, eclectic, wonderful group of artists I call my community.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I spend a lot of time outside doing just about anything. I love to ride my bike, camp or do anything that involves water. I paint, draw and take photography as well.

Tiny Galaxy Two

If there's anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.
I just want to thank you, Penny. I really appreciate the time you took to compile this interview. Great questions!

(Awww, thanks Payton!!)

Be sure to visit Payton's Shops on Artfire and Etsy, plus don't forget to follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Blogger!

A Message to My Dad...

2010-06-19T16:07:00.000-07:00

Dad and Me, 1996

Hi Dad,

It's your "Darlin' Daughter". It's been a long time since I've spoken to you. Actually it'll be 7 years in this July. Just wanted to tell you that I am doing well. That I have 3 wonderful daughters of my own, that I finally found love, (you were right, the first one didn't work out) and that I'm trying very hard to succeed in my dreams and my career. Just the way you wanted me to.

I think of you often, especially when I feel a little down, need a little guidance. I miss the long talks we use to have. Talks about life and love in general, how kids can be so disrespectful of their elders, how to make the best roast beef ever, how to tell if a cognac is good or not, the wonderful array of crystals and stones you've collected... you know.. stuff like that.

So I just wanted to send you this little message to you to let you know that I still remember you, that I thank you for molding me into the person I am today, even if I tried so darn hard to rebel from it, and that I miss you.

Happy Father's Day, Daddy, I know you are always watching over me from the sky.

Michael Kam Chuen Cheng

January 1941 ~ July 2003

Featured Artist Special - Meet Aprilee Lawson of Artistry Jewelry

2010-05-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

Today's Featured Artist is a wonderful friend of mine who I met via cyberspace... Gotta love networking... Aprilee is the owner and designer of Artistry Jewelry, her designs are Victorian inspired but it doesn't stop there, her wire-wrapped and polymer clay creations are definitely something to write home about.

So without further adieu here's Aprilee:

How and when did you start making jewelry as a business?

In a way, it was the result of the proliferation of my creations! No one person can use that much jewelry! To stop creating was out of the question, so I purchased a computer, took an introductory class on computers & self taught myself!

Do you remember the first piece of jewelry you ever made?

Yes. I had enrolled in a jewelry construction class and the teacher wanted to "start small", so our first lesson/task was a pair of earrings which we wire-wrapped. It seemed like rocket science with the intricate, constant moving of the pliers! LOL!

Rosaline's Romance

Every artist has a personal “creative process”, can you explain yours?

I purchase components/beads that I like. Along with that, I purchase numerous components that would go with the main item I started out with. I also keep in mind what I already have available. I don't work on anything just to be productive. I have a photographic memory, so I always know what I have. An idea will hit me when I'm not even thinking about jewelry. That's when I create something! I even keep a small notebook on my nightstand and have (many a nights) scribbled an idea onto it!

When people start doing jewelry, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them, how has your jewelry work changed since you began?

I'm all over the place. I could never do just one type of design/technique! I think it's pretty much the same with everyone else. I started with basic beading techniques, moved into more complex designs, learned wire-wrapping, polymer clay. I just think the longer you stick with it, the more likely you are to branch out into other techniques. Also, the longer something takes to create, the more I enjoy myself!

Kandy Kisses

How many hours a week do you spend in the creative side vs the business side?

There's really no stock answer for that, but since ecommerce is based on images, I spend a great deal of time taking & cropping/editing images. That is the most non-creative chore. As for time creating, I can't really give an answer there either. I only create when an idea hits me, which is unpredictable.

What inspires you creatively?

The color pink and flowers. Victorian/vintage styles.

Sapphire Garden

Where do you sell your jewelry?

Mostly just on Etsy.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your jewelry work?

Doing a museum quality (Victorian) necklace. (willow)

Learning new techniques. Giving great customer service & making many new friends along the way!

Treasure

What advice would you give to someone who is interested or starting out doing jewelry as a business?

The first thing you should do (Prior to registering on etsy, or any other site) would be to do a seller search of the name you intend to use for your shop. Choose something unique. The last thing you want is for someone to make a simple typo error & buy from someone else when they intended to buy from you! Be original! You can't just string beads and expect to survive. You must be able to do (neat) functional wire-wrapping. The jewelry market is flooded, you need to find a way to be original, stand-out from the rest. Make your customers want to come back, and most of all Be patient! I've seen new sellers post in the etsy forum that it's been almost a month with no sales. Calm down and create. Get friends to critique your shop & make changes as needed.

Who are some of your favorite artists and crafters?

Well, I purchase all of my graphics from Dale at Seadreamstudio on etsy. I love yappyhappy for pet related gifts. Beetreebyme does custom pet brooches, I had one made for a friend (stunning). Donna Kato / clay artist. And of course, Penny Cheng.

Penny

What do you like to do in your spare time other than making jewelry?

I enjoy researching other possible techniques that I might like to try. I enjoy baking from scratch. I spend alot of time with my online friends via facebook. I admin at onlineshoppingmall ning site. I watch documentaries on TV. My guilty pleasures are tawdry "reality shows".

I like to shop too!

If there's anything else you want to add, please feel free to do so.

I would just like to thank Penny for this opportunity! (ed: "awww Thank you")

Nightfall

Be sure to check out Aprilee's Etsy Shop, Facebook Page, Twitter and Blog. Also check out the Online Shopping Mall site where Aprilee is an admin!

Remember, if you would like to participate to be a Featured Artist, please send me an Email and I would love to interview you!

Featured Artist Special ~ Meet Elsa L'Abbe

2010-05-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

I finally found some time to do a feature on one of my favorite artisans. Fellow Canadian Elsa L'Abbe's specialty is little baby shoes (she also crochets too!). Now we all remember how our parents/grandparents would bronze the first pair of shoes their children wore. It was cute and dandy, but Elsa takes it to the next level. Instead of bronzing, she uses paint, glitter, ribbons and transforms those little shoes to something unique, adorable and be proud of.

But enough of me chatting, here's the interview:

How and when did you start your business?

I started selling my "treasures" about a year ago, as I was so in love with what I do, I was constantly at it. Of course, after a while, I had so much, selling was the next logical thing to do.

Gold & Pink Baby Skates - Artfire Studio

Do you remember the first item you ever made?

The very first item I ever made was a pair of old skates that I had painted and glittered and added some old socks. I gave them as a gift, and the rest is history, like they say, a monster was created. The monster was me.

Every Artist has a personal "creative process", can you explain yours?

I work a lot of "old" items, shoes, boots, skates, etc, and also new. I often can tell immediately what I want to do when I see that special pair of old baby shoes, or a certain color of wool. It is exciting and sometimes I even wake up at 4: 00 AM to work on my latest project.

Teen Tiny Altered Shoes - Etsy Studio

When people start doing their art/craft, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your art/craft changed since you began?

Unfortunately, I jump from one thing to another, decorating baby shoes, painting skates, creating unique items, knitting, crocheting. etc. There is such a variety of items in my studio, but it's so much fun, as I never know what my next project will be.

How many hours a week do you spend in the creative side versus the business side?

I spend most of my time creating, and a little on business, like listing, etc. I don't really like the business side, as I am more an artist than a business woman.

Baby Sneaker Key Chain and Keys Holder - Artfire Studio

What inspires you creatively?

I am inspired a lot by the look in people's eyes when they see my creations, and the joy they express when buying unusual items. It's wonderful to use up old items too, like baby shoes, boots, skates, etc, instead of always buying new, helps with our mission of saving our wonderful planet. But it's fun too to also work sometimes with new things like wool, and new shoes which I paint and can be worn.

Where do you sell your art/craft?

I sell a lot to people who have already purchased from me at shows, and are repeat customers. Also on internet sites, like ArtFire and Etsy, and from my own website.

Crochet Edging 5 Piece Ensemble for Newborn - Etsy Studio

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?

My goal was to gain confidence in myself and my talent by creating beautiful things that others would actually want to buy. I feel that I am more than a wife and mom, that I can actually work hard at something that I love to do, and feel passionate about. Something to lose myself in, it's so wonderful to have a passion.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in or starting out a business relating to their art/craft?

If you feel you want to start a business, first you must have confidence in yourself that you are offering something others want and will enjoy. Decide how to promote, either internet, shows, etc There are many ways like Etsy, Artfire, your own website, to promote your work.

Denim and Pink Heart Baby Sneakers - Artfire Studio

Who are some of your favorite Artists and Crafters?

I have so many of them, I really like a lot someone who uses old items to make new creations. I love so many handmade items, and really respect artists as I know how hard they work and how passionate they are about their work.

What do you like to do in your spare time other than making your art/craft?

I have so many interests, I am so torn between crafting, painting, crocheting, etc. I have 2 horses and love to ride. So much I love to do, so little time. I wish the days were twice as long as they are, so I could do all I would like to do.

Heavenly Clouds Christening Gown - Etsy Studio

Last thoughts or words of wisdom?

An artist puts a lot of passion in their work. Only another artist can understand the wonderful feeling it gives when we create something, it is very rewarding. It's a wonderful world we live in, we are blessed with many opportunites. I thank God for my health, and my abilitity to work hard and enjoy my life to the fullest.

Be sure to check out Elsa's Website, Artfire Studio, Etsy Studio, Facebook Page and be sure to follow her on Twitter!

Stay tuned for more wonderful artisans to be featured soon....

If you would like to participate to be a Featured Artist, please send me an email and I would love to interview you!

Happy Earth Day!

2010-04-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth Day. Are you doing your part to help this planet we live on? If each one of us does just one thing, we might be able to make this wonderful place we call home a little better.

I found this Link from Earth Day Canada that lists the Top 10 Ways to help our Environment: Here's what they listed:

1. Smart Shopping:

Buy what you need, not what you want
Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed
Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores

2. Simple Savers

Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
Use aerators on faucets and shower heads
Weatherstrip windows and doors

3. Transportation Alternatives

Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation
When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure
Consider car sharing programs or renting

4. Food Choices

Choose local and organic foods that are in season, and support local food producers
Eat less meat

5. Washing and Drying

Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry

6. Heating and Cooling

For summer air conditioning, set your thermostat to 24°C or 25°C
For winter heating, set your thermostat to 19°C or 20°C
Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats

7. Close to Home

Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible

8. Bathroom Basics

Take short showers instead of baths
Close water taps while brushing your teeth

9. Careful Cleaning

Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products
Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water

10. Don't Discard

Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash
Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc. should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers

I remember as a child (back in the 70's, oops I dated myself) being told not to waste water, turn off the lights, if you're cold, don't turn up the heat, just wear more clothes, don't waste, don't waste, don't waste. I didn't really understand it then, I just thought my parents and every other adult was being cheap. But now that I have children of my own, travelled a little, seen a clear cut forest, noticed all the smog, I know that as a grown up I need to make sure that my children will be able to grow up in an environment where it is clean, safe, and healthy. Because if we keep wasting away our natural resources, our children won't have anything to grow up to....

Jewelry by Saniki Creations will be at The Best Swap Meet & Craft Fair Ever, Richmond, BC

2010-04-15T22:02:00.000-07:00

Stop by our Table (we'll be at Table 11) on May 15th from 10am to 1pm
Cambie Community Centre
12800 Cambie Road
Richmond, BC.

We'll have all our Creations there. Hope you can stop by and say "Hello"!

When did it become April?

2010-04-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

Time seems to be going by way too quickly... I think I lost a few days here and there. I don't really remember the month of March being over and we're now in April and in a couple of weeks my middle daughter, Anisa turns 7 years old. She wants a princess tea party for her birthday... so being such a great Mom I am, I found a "Princess" to host the tea party... For $200 for two hours, she better be a good... I think I'm in the wrong business and should be a "Princess" too and charge parents to attend parties and eat cake. However, I will probably get fat from all that cake and the way my various moods have been recently, I probably will end up being the evil Queen instead.

But enough about that... I suppose I should try to catch up on what I'm suppose to catch up on and get my things ready for a upcoming craft show in mid-May.

Until the next time I remember to post a blog, be sure to check out my new line of Chainmaille Earrings (lovingly named "Saniki's Little Links"). I originally was suppose to write about that today... somehow got sidetracked... again. You can go HERE to view the collection I have listed in my Artfire Studio.

I'm Way Behind....

2010-03-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

It has been an uninspiring and aweful couple of weeks for me... I've been putting everything in the back burner due to a family member, my father-in-law, being in the hospital. With lots of crying and praying, he will be okay and is out of the ICU but will be remaining in the there for another week or two.. not quite sure yet.

With that in my mind, I've just haven't been wanting to do anything... depression can be, well, so depressing.

But now I know I need to get off my bottom and get back to work. I will be doing a craft fair in mid May and am searching for other shows to do, and as you can see, redesigned my logo so it doesn't look "mickey mouse'ish" (if that's such a word).

I'm also contemplating whether to start another line that I wouldn't classify as Limited Edition or One of a Kind... I like making earrings and was thinking of having a specialized Earrings Only Shop. Should I put my toes into semi mass production. As business has been slow due to the economy, I still need to make a living and I'm thinking maybe if I purchase my materials in bulk, (materials for earrings are quite reasonably cheap) it will lower prices for my dear customers. Things I think about when I don't really want to think. Strange as it sounds.

However this week is the week my two oldest girls have their Spring Break.. and of course they want the computer ALL THE TIME. So I've been redoing my existing inventory with new tags and entertaining them. Well sort of. It is great to be able to stay at home to work, but sometimes I miss actually going to work.

So that's what's been happening in a nutshell. Back to tagging my creations....

Sunshine Blog Award ~ I Won!!

2010-03-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

Yippee! I am thrilled and honoured to say that my blog has been given the Sunshine Blog Award! This is my first award ever I am doing the ultimate "Happy Dance". Special gratitude goes out to Teresa of TRUSK4U. Please visit Teresa's blog and check out her STORE at Etsy.

The conditions when accepting this award:

* Put the logo on your blog or within your post.

* Pass the award onto 12 bloggers.

* Link the nominees within your post.

* Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

* Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

I'm battling a nasty sinus cold right now so I'm just going to do half the work today, so here are my first 7 Nominations for the following blogs (I will post the second half of the nominations later this week):

FuzzieChicken

Red Hen Studios

ByHandGiveaways also TagsAndButtons

Gypsy Blood's

Runaway Crochet

MV Beads

Artistry Jewelry

Please feel free to check out these blogs, they would love for you to stop by!

Now I'm going to go blow my aweful nose........

Wanna be a Featured Artist?

2010-03-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday to all...

I would love to feature some wonderful Artists starting next week. Weekly themes will be set up and I will feature at least 2 or 3 brilliant Artisans in a week.

This is great exposure for you and your shops, hence more customers. If you are interested, Contact Me at contact@sanikicreations.com with some info about you and what you do, plus don't forget your sites.

Some info to include (but not limited to):

How long you've been doing your craft and what made you decide to do it.
What are your specialties.
Your favorite piece and why
Where can someone buy your items (online, stores, marketplaces, etc.)
Contact info

Next week's theme: Lampwork and Glass Artists
Deadline to submit for next weeks theme is Thursday, March 11, 2010.

2010-03-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

How do we look?

2010-03-03T19:10:00.000-08:00

After almost 8 hours in front of the computer... I re-did the template of this blog of mine. I never realized how picky I was until I was looking aimlessly for hours for a template that had the background I wanted with the amount of columns I wanted, colours, etc, etc. The list went on.

Now I think I am finished tweaking every website I have. Time for me to take a break and go back creating something that does not include codes and widgets.

Be sure to join our Facebook Fan Page and follow us on Twitter. Doing so ensures that you will get up to date information on promos, sales and giveaways.

Now back to Facebook so I can harvest my Farm, feed my Fish, take care of my Pet, and cook more food in my Cafe....

Links Anyone?

2010-03-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Now that my new website is pretty much complete and the tweaking has been done. I'm looking for Link Exchange Partners. My only criteria is that the site relates to handmade items. Items that are mass produced in a factory are definately not who I want to trade links with, even it is is handmade in the factory. I don't use third-party, link farms and that type of things. All sites are manually viewed by me to preserve quality.

If you would like to exchange links with Jewelry by Saniki Creations. Contact Me or go to my Links Exchange page.

SPEAKING OF LINKS...

Chainmaille jewelry, mainly bracelets, are now in my shop. These lovely bracelets are Made to Order to your size specifications. My little time away from blogging had given me the opportunity to learn the wonderful world of coiling and cutting wire to form rings, opening and closing each little ring, and forming various chainmaille weaves.

I love the variety of colours and wire that can be used to make these treasures. Chainmaille jewelry is versatile that you can dress them up or down to match any outfit. I recently made special bracelets for my Mom-in-Law and for my Aunt for their birthdays.

To see my collection of Chainmaille Bracelets, visit my website. To order visit my Artfire or Etsy shop.

Jewelry by Saniki Creations returns to Blogger

2010-02-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

After being away for so long dealing with family, a new website, networking like crazy. I finally have the time to post something in this here blog.

I'm still tweaking things around here to make it easy to move around for everyone, so please bear with me.

I'll be attempting to make posts at least once every week or two weeks and I will love to start promoting my site, my creations and anything handmade. So be sure to stay tuned to what I have in store!

FACEBOOK PAGE

We originally got rid of our Facebook Page last year and kept the group page..... However, I changed my mind and have a new Facebook Fan Page for everyone to come visit. As of today, we have 455 wonderful Fans of Jewelry by Saniki Creations. The group page is still around, but I am slowly weeding that out of the my many networking sites.

Facebook Fan Page Fans will receive exclusive promos and discounts. We currently have a wonderful Giveaway right now for Fans for two pairs of earrings and a bracelet. This will consist of three draws... which means three winners. Drawing will take place once 500 Fans have been reached. so if you are not a fan yet, you should be.

CREATIONS FOR SALE

Due to a really back corrupt file last week, my main website's shop dissappeared.... Boy was I angry... I have now set up a new website and will be selling my creations at my Artfire Studio and Etsy Studio. The main site will have photos of some of my most favorite and searched for Creations with links to the appropriate listing to buy. Not all my inventory are posted in the Studios so be sure to check back often for new items.

OTHER THINGS YOU MIGHT OR MIGHT NOT WANT TO KNOW

As I previously said, it's been busy. My three daughters have their birthdays in the months of March and April. They are turning 10 years, 7 years, and 2 years. Time sure has flown by and we've been busy around here with work, school, holiday celebrations and sneaking in some Olympic family activities. Hopefully I will have time to create some new pieces in between the birthday parties, homework, diaper changes......

A few Updates and a Special for Twitter Followers

2009-10-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend and for my fellow Canadians....

Happy Thanksgiving!

Eat lots of turkey (and tofu turkey for my vegetarian friends).

Updates to Know (even if you aren't interested....)

As of tomorrow, I will be deleting my Facebook Fan Page for Jewelry by Saniki Creations. I would like to thank all of you who have "fanned" my page. At the moment I cannot forsee another Facebook Fan page being created. As it is I am pretty overwhelmed with so many network profiles to maintain and one less could help me stay sane. (At least that's what the voices in my head tell me)

However, I am still maintaining the Groups page on Facebook. If you haven't already, please feel free to Join this Group and let others know about it. The Group is opened to anyone and I would love to see and make some new friends.

Click HERE for the Facebook Groups Page

Do you "tweet"?

Follow Jewelry by Saniki Creations on Twitter and until October 15, 2009, save 50% Off your purchase of $25.00 or more. Free Shipping, too! This is only valid for my Twitter Followers, so Follow Me today and take advantage of this great steal, I mean deal!

Click HERE to Follow Me on Twitter

Calling All Artist/Designers/Anyone who makes Handcrafted Items

I'm looking to add more sites to my Link Exchange page and would love to have you exchange your link with mine. My only criteria is that the site relates to Handmade/Handcrafted items. Blogs, Marketplaces and Instructional also welcome to exchange links (be sure it relates to Handmade!)

Click HERE to submit your site.

Until next time, Have a great Weekend!

Oh I've been baaaaad!

2009-10-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been so busy these past few months that I totally forgot I had this blog, that's why I haven't updated it since April. (Naughty, Naughty). I suppose I should mark it on my calendar to update this on a regular basis.

Alot has happened since my last post, mainly creating more designs, playing with my kids (it was a looong summer) and watching my littlest grow into a toddler (she's 19 months old now and is going into her terrible twos....yikes).

I had also created my own logo, changed the name of my company from Saniki Creations Handcrafted Jewelry & Accessories to Jewelry by Saniki Creations, lowered my shipping costs, revamped my website, networked all over the internet, mainly on Twitter and Facebook and finally trying to make time to list the many pieces I've made.

I'm still designing One of a Kind creations plus having Limited Edition pieces due to many requests from friends, family and customers. I will still never mass produce my pieces though....I'm still a strong believer in that. My One of a Kind pieces are now listed in the category Saniki Signature Collection, plus I've also added a new category called Seasonal/Holiday Collection.

Right now I've listed a few Halloween, Christmas and general Fall Season items. I love this time of year but I just don't like the colder weather. On the bright side, at least this makes me create more and not go outside to play in the sun.

As always, as I'm trying to work on this computer, my toddler is now wanting my undivide attention so I must go and play a round of ring around the rosy with her.

Bye for now (I shall mark on my calendar to post again soon....)

Handmade Wire Wrapped Rings Now Available

2009-04-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Get ready for Mother's Day! I created a few wirewrapped rings and is now available in my store. Come take a look! More designs will be listed within a couple of days. All rings can be custom made to the your size required. However designs can vary slightly, making them totally one-of-a-kind!

Champagne Solitaire Ring

Quartz Swirl Ring

Singled Out Cluster Ring

Mailing List Now Available on Saniki Creations!

2009-04-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

I've set up a mailing list for monthly newsletters to keep you informed of upcoming events such as specials and sales, and to let you know what's new in the store. I might even include a special coupon just for subscribers to the newsletter. This service is administered/powered by RatePoint.com who is also administering my new testimonial/review page on my site.

To subscribe to the monthly newsletters click this link and it will redirect you to the proper store page for signup. (You may unsubscribe at anytime, too)

Hope you join the list!

Oh yeah.....for privacy reasons, I will NEVER give out, sell, or rent your information to any third-parties unless you give me written permission!!! Your security is my security!

Grand Opening Sale starts today. 20% Off all Inventory!

2009-04-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Saniki Creations Grand Opening Sale!

Starting today (April 1, 2009) for 3 days only, everything in my store is 20% off! Applies only to items listed in my official website.

Come on by and get a great buy!

(regular shipping/handling charges still applies)

I'm Baaaaaaaaaack!

2009-03-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Wow! Just realized how long it's been since my last post. I've been extremely busy with family stuff so I kinda put my Creations and stores to the back burner. Don't know how some of these work at home moms do it sometimes. This week I sold 12 of my handmade cell phone charms to a wonderful lady named Dawn. So if Dawn is reading this, "Thank You Again, and the charms are on its way!". I will be allowing, at wholesale pricing, orders for cell phone charms only, and they are still all one of a kind so you will not get any duplicate charm dangles. So contact me if you are wanting to sell some in your shop.

Exclusive... only available in my website, New bracelet creations and a necklace/bracelet set....Here's a glimpse....

Wealth of Lakshmi Bracelet

Bows of Simplicity Bracelet

Carnelian Twist Bracelet

Juna's Love Bracelet

Old Crone's Treasure Set

Remember Folks, prices in my website are Canadian Dollars! And the above new items are not listed in any other stores!

Ciao for now!