Some wonderful items I found browsing through my favorites.
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| JesseByah |
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| Syds |
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| RareSpecimens |
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| Madden & Lloyd |
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| Southern Wood |
Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Danielle, and I'm from Long Island, NY. I'm a single mother of four (3 cats and 1 rabbit) who enjoys birding, playing guitar, and photography. I'm a vegan who loves animals, music, and being outdoors in any kind of weather.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Much of my inspiration comes from dreams; especially my photography and post-processing. I think many people have experienced that -- waking up with ideas in your head that seem to come from nowhere.
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
I'm involved in many different crafts, so it's hard to say what has influenced me most; I'm self-taught at much of what I do. I've been crocheting for several years; getting more serious about photography for about 8 years; playing guitar for about the same amount of time. I think the online communities I'm involved in have played a huge role in giving me the motivation to improve and be more creative, for sure.
How would you describe your creative process?
My creative process is far from exciting. An idea comes to me and I try to make it a reality. Sometimes it just becomes a lesson in patience, lol. Many times, I'd scrap an idea after trying to make it work without success. Other times, things just seem to fall into place.
What makes your items “unique”?
My Etsy shop is fairly new. At the present time, I am only selling statement bracelets (and a few necklaces) solely for the purpose of spreading positive messages while donating funds to charity. I think my "vegan" items are unique simply because there aren't many bracelets and such available that state "vegan". I do have other items that state "love", "hope", "peace"... and all are sold for the purpose of charity fund raising. :-)
Tell us more about the charity you donate your proceeds to.
Donations will be made to the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary (www.woodstocksanctuary.org) in Willow, NY. Ever since I visited the sanctuary in 2008, I've been making small donations each holiday. The place is a haven for animals who have been rescued from deplorable conditions of abuse and neglect. It's a place of peace and hope, and I encourage everyone to visit them at least once. You won't forget it.
What celebrity would you most like to wear your items?
Oh, I would love to see Ellen DeGeneres wear one of my bracelets!
What's you favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is climbing a tree right outside our kitchen door, with my favorite stuffed animal in my backpack. When I got as high as I could go, I just sat there watching the birds, feeling the breezes, and hugging my stuffie for the whole afternoon. If that tree was still there, I'd go back and do it again.
Visit Thedryad
Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/thedryad
Let's get to know each other! Below are a few fun personality questions. Feel free to answer a few or all of them.
1. Do you play any instruments?
No I don't play any instruments. When I was younger I wanted to play the clarinet but never got a chance to. I did own a piano for several years but I never bother to learn. I just banged on the keys and pretended I knew what I was doing.
2. Who was the last person you called?
My kids at home. I don't talk on the phone a lot. I normally just call my house, my husband or my sister. In fact I think last month I only used 69 minutes! I use my cell phone more for texting and internet surfing.
3. Where do you plan on going for your next vacation?
We are saving to go on a cruise. Our kids are in their teens and we think this would be the perfect time for us to go. Its still a couple of years away but I am excited about it.
4. Who's your favorite TV attorney?
I love Alicia Florrick from the CBS show "The Good Wife". There is just something about her demeanor and personality that I really like. Its my new favorite show.
5. Where do you go for advice?
My husband :-) I know it might sound corny but he is truly my best friend. He listens to my mindless rambling and when I need advice he's always there.
Now its your turn...
1. Do you play any instruments?
No I don't play any instruments. When I was younger I wanted to play the clarinet but never got a chance to. I did own a piano for several years but I never bother to learn. I just banged on the keys and pretended I knew what I was doing.
2. Who was the last person you called?
My kids at home. I don't talk on the phone a lot. I normally just call my house, my husband or my sister. In fact I think last month I only used 69 minutes! I use my cell phone more for texting and internet surfing.
3. Where do you plan on going for your next vacation?
We are saving to go on a cruise. Our kids are in their teens and we think this would be the perfect time for us to go. Its still a couple of years away but I am excited about it.
4. Who's your favorite TV attorney?
I love Alicia Florrick from the CBS show "The Good Wife". There is just something about her demeanor and personality that I really like. Its my new favorite show.
5. Where do you go for advice?
My husband :-) I know it might sound corny but he is truly my best friend. He listens to my mindless rambling and when I need advice he's always there.
Now its your turn...
My name is Taylor Lynn, but you can call me Taylor or even Tay. I’m an overgrown hobbit attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, with a closet it my dormitory that leads to Narnia, where I’m queen. "TheForestFaery" is just a pseudonym so the White Witch, RingWraiths and Death Eaters don't find me.
Of course, you muggles would just know me as a fourteen year old homeschooled vegan pursuing my dream of becoming a best-selling novelist. I love reading, writing, history, English and Language Arts, interesting words, blogging and taking photos, and someday (someday soon, I’m sure!) you’ll be able to walk into any bookstore and buy my novels. Until then, you can buy my photography and some handmade items in my Etsy shop, TheForestFaery!
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes mostly from nature, and from fantasy. For instance, after watching the new Alice in Wonderland movie, I went outside to lock up our goats and chickens for the night. It had just rained, the air was cool and the sun was setting. When I came inside I got ready for bed, sat down with a notepad and pen and wrote down ideas for photos that had popped into my head out of nowhere while I was outside, still caught up in Wonderland with the soundtrack running through my head. It was rather fun! So if you ever want to give me photo inspiration, make me watch a good fantasy movie and then send me outside.
My camera(s). Or whatever camera(s) are available at the time. Oh, we’ve been through so much together. They never complain when I kneel, squat, stretch, reach or lie on my belly/back in the grass to catch a good shot. They don’t mind getting up close and personal with mushrooms and toads. My dear camera(s), I couldn’t have captured those shots without you!
What does handmade mean to you?
That someone sat down and put something together using their own skill, own imagination and own two hands. (Or own two feet. Whatever works.) The small imperfections don’t matter, because they show that a human made it, not a robot. Handmade means that gifts are better quality and more meaningful, and handmade also means more personal.
Can I tell you a secret? Before TheForestFaery, I had an Etsy shop called abenevolentbookworm. I sold bookmarks, and my shop FAILED. Why? Because while I’ve done crafts my whole life, I’m very fickle and don’t have much stamina for them. Knitting, quilting, scrapbooking, collage-making: been there, done that. I was once slightly obsessed with each one; now I do them occasionally, if at all. So even though I sold a few bookmarks, I got bored of making them and closed down abenevolentbookworm.
However, ever since I was a little kid I’ve known I wanted to be a writer. And in 2008 I discovered how fun photography is. So I’m creative, just not in the way many Etsians are – my creativity is expressed in writing and photography rather than handmade items, which is why TheForestFaery is all about photography. To keep it stocked up, all I have to do is relist and occasionally go outside to snap a new picture! No long-term stamina necessary.
How would you describe your creative process?
Step 1: The mood strikes. “I feel like taking pictures!” I think.
Step 2: I turn on the camera and no doubt have to switch the rechargeable batteries. Once that’s done, I’m good to go.
Step 3: I go outside and wander through my yard and my Grampa’s next door. If I see a photo opportunity I stop, drop and roll, or whatever it is that’s necessary to capture said photo.
Step 4: I import photos onto my laptop. Then I eliminate the bad ones, save the good ones, and they proceed to sit around for days or weeks in my computer until I get around to listing them.
Of course, sometimes this entire process is skipped if I walk by a window and see a totally amazing photo opportunity. Then I tear through the house, find the camera, burst outside barefoot or in someone else’s shoes, and proceed to snap ten or twenty photos of the same thing from different angles, provided the opportunity hasn't passed by already. True story.
If I was in a serious mood, I’d say Anne Frank so that I could see what it was really like for her in the Secret Annex.
But if I was in a random mood, I’d say Kate from the TV show “Lost” so that I could tell Sawyer not to fall in love with ‘me’ because ‘I’ will just end up being a complete jerk and using him.
Or Alice Cullen, because she is simply the most awesome character in the Twilight Saga. I’m starting Team Alice, who’s with me?!
Do you have a strange talent not many know of?
I wish I could say yes, but… no, not really.
That’s not to say I’m normal, though. I’m not really what you’d call “normal”, I don’t really try to be, and I don’t really want to be. Because the way I see it, where’s the fun in being like everyone else?
Visit TheForestFaery
Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/TheForestFaery
Blog: www.dreamsoffae.blogspot.com
About a year ago I crocheted a few prayer squares and donated it to a fellow CreateCrochet team member. She then sold them at a Relay for Life event to raise money. The items that she did not sell were donated to a local hospital.
Prayer Squares
This is a fantastic way to use up your scrap yarn. Have fun with combining colors. If you make enough squares you can attach them to make a scrap happy afghan.
The idea behind these squares is that the person making them is praying while working on them. So the person receiving the square can be touched and blessed by your prayers.
Materials:
Small amount of worsted weight yarn
Crochet Hook Size 5 (H) - or whatever size your comfortable with
Abbreviations/ Special Stitches:
Hook = HK
Chain = CH
Stitch = ST
Single Crochet = SC
Puff Stitch = PS: YO, insert hook in next stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (3 loops on hook), YO, insert hook in SAME stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (5 loops on hook), YO, insert hook once again into the SAME stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (7 loops on hook).
Instructions:
Chain 12
Row 1: sc in second ch from hk and in each ch across. ch 1, turn (11sc)
Row 2: sc in each of next 3 sc, puff st in next sc, sc in each of next 3 sc, ch 1, turn
Row 3: sc across, ch 1, turn
Row 4-9: repeat rows 2 &3
Row 10: *sc in 1st sc, puff st in next sc, sc in next sc*, repeat to end
Row 11: sc across, ch 1, turn
Row 12-14: repeat rows 2 & 3
Row 15: sc in each sc across
Once your square is done you can use a single crochet stitch around to create a neat border.
If you have any questions regarding this pattern please let me know.
If you try this pattern I would love to see how it came out. Feel free to share your pictures with me.
Other Stuff:
I would very much like it if this pattern is used for charity and personal use only.
Please do not sell my pattern in part or whole.
If you post your creations on your blog, facebook, flickr or any other social networking site, please provide a link back to this page so others might be able to find this pattern.
Enjoy :-)
edited 8/13/13
Prayer Squares
This is a fantastic way to use up your scrap yarn. Have fun with combining colors. If you make enough squares you can attach them to make a scrap happy afghan.
The idea behind these squares is that the person making them is praying while working on them. So the person receiving the square can be touched and blessed by your prayers.
Materials:
Small amount of worsted weight yarn
Crochet Hook Size 5 (H) - or whatever size your comfortable with
Abbreviations/ Special Stitches:
Hook = HK
Chain = CH
Stitch = ST
Single Crochet = SC
Puff Stitch = PS: YO, insert hook in next stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (3 loops on hook), YO, insert hook in SAME stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (5 loops on hook), YO, insert hook once again into the SAME stitch, yo, pull through and bring yarn up to height of rest of stitches (7 loops on hook).
Instructions:
Chain 12
Row 1: sc in second ch from hk and in each ch across. ch 1, turn (11sc)
Row 2: sc in each of next 3 sc, puff st in next sc, sc in each of next 3 sc, ch 1, turn
Row 3: sc across, ch 1, turn
Row 4-9: repeat rows 2 &3
Row 10: *sc in 1st sc, puff st in next sc, sc in next sc*, repeat to end
Row 11: sc across, ch 1, turn
Row 12-14: repeat rows 2 & 3
Row 15: sc in each sc across
Once your square is done you can use a single crochet stitch around to create a neat border.
If you have any questions regarding this pattern please let me know.
If you try this pattern I would love to see how it came out. Feel free to share your pictures with me.
Other Stuff:
I would very much like it if this pattern is used for charity and personal use only.
Please do not sell my pattern in part or whole.
If you post your creations on your blog, facebook, flickr or any other social networking site, please provide a link back to this page so others might be able to find this pattern.
Enjoy :-)
edited 8/13/13
"The Christian needs another Christian who speaks God's Word to him. He needs him again and again when he becomes uncertain and discouraged, for by himself he cannot help himself without belying the truth. He needs his brother man as bearer and proclaimer of the divine word of salvation. He needs his brother solely because of Jesus Christ. The Christ in his own heart is uncertain, his brother's is sure. And that also clarifies the goal of all Christian communities: they meet one another as bringers of the message of salvation."
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together
My names Armada (or at least that's what I keep on telling people). I worked in many mediums and love experimenting with reusing/recycling. Most of the work I do now is drawing and painting, but every now and again I try to make my life more fun by finding new things to make. I've done pottery (it's actually my greatest passion, though I don't have potters wheel, so, so much for that), stain glass, paper mache, drawing and painting in almost every media out there, shoe-making, and much, much more. Here now, I'll show you how to make a boring frame look very unique and colorful. Frames decorated this way work really well for modern art, especially abstract and surrealism.
You will need:
- Flat frame (no ornate carvings or or anything like that, those I usually paint instead). The one I fave here was bought from a dollar store, so it's very simple.
- Old unwanted magazine, or anything else that has similar size and quality pages.
- Brush
- Mod Podge (glossy) or any other similar product.
Steps:
- Fold and cut paper into strips. Size of strips will depend on the frame, I needed ¾ inch strips for mine (1/16 of a page)
- Roll strips into tight rolls and make a ton of them. I usually cut strips and roll them while watching TV because it takes a a lot of time.
- Apply thick layer of Mod Podge to the frame. I usually do it one side at a time to leave less time for the glue to dry.
- Place rolls of paper on the frame next to one another.
- After the glue is dry, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the all exposed sides of rolls and frame.
Once it's all dry, you can start using it. Mod Podge will give a glossy finish and will protect it if you will need to wipe it with moist cloth, it also acts as glue keeping everything together.
Links:
http://fromtheworldofart.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArmadaVolya
http://twitter.com/#!/ArmadaVolya
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Armada-Volya/199368443415926?sk=wall
*** If you would like me to publish your tutorial please feel free to email at myhobbyshop.etsy@gmail.com or convo me on Etsy. ***
Tell us a little about yourself?
We are Nellianna & Kenneth. We live in The Netherlands with our 2 cats Ayla & June. As an architect and an industrial designer we love to create. We love to make things that work in a predictable way.
Where does your inspiration come from?
We like it very much to create a beautiful structure out a simple piece of paper. In nature almost everything depends on basic geometrical patterns, we use these as a starting point for our designs.
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
My father (Nellianna) taught me the beauty of folding paper. It is because of his perseveance that I am patient enough to work on a piece.
What does handmade mean to you?
New chances for small businesses who have the possibility to produce products on a small scale. These products tell a story.
We are Nellianna & Kenneth. We live in The Netherlands with our 2 cats Ayla & June. As an architect and an industrial designer we love to create. We love to make things that work in a predictable way.
Where does your inspiration come from?
We like it very much to create a beautiful structure out a simple piece of paper. In nature almost everything depends on basic geometrical patterns, we use these as a starting point for our designs.
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
My father (Nellianna) taught me the beauty of folding paper. It is because of his perseveance that I am patient enough to work on a piece.
What does handmade mean to you?
New chances for small businesses who have the possibility to produce products on a small scale. These products tell a story.
How would you describe your creative process?
Through creativity is always a mix of thought and working with your hands. Every lampshade is like a puzzle, when I start I can't stop I have to finish teh puzzle.
How do you get out of your creative ruts?
Go to the beach for a walk. Drink a cup of coffee with some good friends or relaxing with our 2 cats.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
We don't know how to fold a crane bird :)
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Streets without trees.
Nellianna’s Shop: http://nellianna.etsy.com/
Tumblr: http://studiosnowpuppe.tumblr.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Snowpuppe
Tell us a little about yourself?
I was born and raised in North Dakota and am happily married with six children. I am a certified interior designer in the state of Minnesota and worked in the architecture/interior design field for 14 years. I was laid off when the housing/building market came to a grinding halt. I also happened to be pregnant with our sixth child so it didn’t make a lot of sense to pursue another position at the time.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration originally came from the sheep we raise and my children and the interaction between them, but has branched out to many other areas as well. Now when I look around I am always looking for new scenes or objects that would make good paper cuts! The world is full of inspiration!
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
Well I have my art teacher from college to thank for introducing me to paper cutting years ago. Recently I have my family and close friends to thank for their encouragement and feedback. Joe Bagely and other members of the Guild of American Papercutters have been inspirational and a wealth of technical information.
What does handmade mean to you?
Something handmade by me means – uniquely designed and very carefully created by my own hands out of the best materials I can find.
I was born and raised in North Dakota and am happily married with six children. I am a certified interior designer in the state of Minnesota and worked in the architecture/interior design field for 14 years. I was laid off when the housing/building market came to a grinding halt. I also happened to be pregnant with our sixth child so it didn’t make a lot of sense to pursue another position at the time.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration originally came from the sheep we raise and my children and the interaction between them, but has branched out to many other areas as well. Now when I look around I am always looking for new scenes or objects that would make good paper cuts! The world is full of inspiration!
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
Well I have my art teacher from college to thank for introducing me to paper cutting years ago. Recently I have my family and close friends to thank for their encouragement and feedback. Joe Bagely and other members of the Guild of American Papercutters have been inspirational and a wealth of technical information.
What does handmade mean to you?
Something handmade by me means – uniquely designed and very carefully created by my own hands out of the best materials I can find.
When did you know you were an artist?
I have always been a creative person. As a child I loved drawing and sewing. I took that talent and used it for interior design. This took up most of my creative energy so I didn’t do much in the artistic realm beyond this. When I was no longer doing this on a regular basis I needed something else to focus on. My children found my art portfolio from college and stumbled across a paper cut I did in an art class. They were fascinated by it. My husband made a comment that got the ball rolling. . .” Now that is something you don’t see every day! You could sell those.” I gave it a try again and was hooked! Now I have to tell myself to stop some days so I can get other things done. When I reached that point I knew that I was an artist.
How would you describe your creative process?
I am always looking for new ideas everywhere I go. I try to stay focused on one idea at a time, but often have several projects in progress at any given time. I start by looking at pictures I’ve taken or ones given to me by others to use. I print them off in black and white; then I partially trace and modify/sketch to get the pattern that I want to cut. Depending on what paper I am using I will either glue to back (with a repositionable glue) or tape with a weak tape to the paper to be cut. I use an xacto type knife and self-healing mat to cut the image. When done I glue it to a piece of art or illustration board.
How do you get out of your creative ruts?
I find a new subject to make a quick paper cut out of before tackling bigger more time consuming projects if I am not feeling motivated. So far I can only recall one day of really being in a rut. Usually my problem is staying focused on one item – there are so many I want to do!
What made you decide to start selling on etsy?
While researching the market for paper cuts, I came across several paper cut artists who sold their work on etsy. I was impressed with their work and it was obvious that they were able to sell on etsy. I checked out all the information for sellers and decided to give it a try.
What makes your items “unique”?
I create all of my own patterns and have from day one. I like to challenge myself to make the images realistic, detailed and artistic.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Most people who don’t know me are surprised to hear I am a mother of six children.
Would you rather be able to fly or be invisible and why?
Probably fly – I love seeing things from the bird’s eye view.
Visit AmyBirnbaum:
Etsy Shop - www.etsy.com/shop/AmyBirnbaum
Tell us a little about yourself?
I was born and raised in the Montreal area (Quebec, Canada).
I have travelled a bit, but I am in love with my city and get my inspiration for its streets. I love to draw, love art but I do not work full time in this field...yet! My dream is to one day become a children's book illustrator. That is definitely my favorite kind of art.
Where does your inspiration come from?I am inspired by the everyday people that cross my path, other artists, picture book illustrations, insects and plants.
Who or what has been most influential in your art?
I think my childhood has inspired my art tremendously. To me it was a magical time. Plants had feelings and felt pain when you uprooted them, clouds bore secret messages, and you could keep a pet ladybug in an empty margarine jar and was convinced that with the right equipment, you could fly a little when you jump off a tree branch.
What does handmade mean to you?
The beauty in imperfect uniqueness. Every piece is different and has a soul.
When did you know you were an artist?
I have been quite insecure about using the term artist but I guess in the last few years, after studying graphic design and getting a few illustration contracts I started to let people call me that.
How would you describe your creative process?
I just wait to get that feeling, rising in my belly that says: Oh man, I really feel like drawing!! I grab my lead pencils and just any scrap of paper lying around and let the images flow through the tip. Then I either use coloured pencils to fill in the spaces or use Photoshop to color it in.
How do you get out of your creative ruts?
I just don't stress about it. Leave it alone for a while. Taking walks around an unknown part of town helps.
What made you decide to start selling on Etsy?
I started looking at other shops, other artists and thought; maybe I could do this to! I felt I had nothing to lose and a few years later I had enough material to start posting it up.
What makes your work “unique”?
I really think that my creatures humanoids or animal...oids? Have a special look about them. I like the look of the bigger head on a round belly and longish limbs, I like to bring out the beautiful side of textbook unattractiveness.
If you had to describe your art as a fruit, what fruit would you choose and why?
Ummm I guess I could go with wild strawberries. The little kind, the one that you find unexpectedly on the side of a road, because I think my art can be like a sweet little surprise that makes you smile for a while.
If you could have dinner with anyone (living or dead) who would it be and what would be served?
I would love to have dinner with Daniel Johnston (of the: hello how are you t-shirts.). We would sing his Casper the friendly ghost song and eat European hotdogs, the ones with the huge sausages, sauerkraut and fancy mustard.
Visit Scarableu:
Etsy Shop - http://www.etsy.com/shop/scarableu
Facebook - www.facebook.com/pages/Scarableu/140235972695333
Blog - www.lizzyzilloz.blogspot.com
Tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Ruti and I'm 26 years old. I was born and raised in Jerusalem. I am currently studying Occupational Therapy in the city of Haifa, Israel. I have always loved art – painting, sculpting, photographing, designing, beading and more. In most recent years I have been drawn to the magic of folding recycled paper and creating various works of art with them. This kind of art combines my passion for shaping and color-matching, with my love for nature, while attempting to preserve and reuse pre-existing materials.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from nature, colors and music.
When did you know you were an artist?
Ever since I remember myself I create things using many kinds of arts.
How would you describe your creative process?
I use paper from many sources like magazines, prospects, tea bag paper wraps and more. I've learned this kind of art from my grandfather's Philippian caregiver about 7 years ago. Since then I always carry a few paper pieces in my pocket.
First I cut the paper to the right size, then fold it to triangles and separate them by colors. Then I decide which colors to use and what the pattern and shape would be like, then build the structure. I also use glue for making it durable and a low bottom made from cardboard.
Apart from creating, what do you do?
I study and work with a child with autism. I like travelling, reading, watch movies and listen to music.
If you could be a superhero, what would you want your superpowers to be?
I wish that I could move things using my thought only.
Visit RutisRoots:
Etsy Shop - http://www.etsy.com/shop/RutisRoots
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rutis-Roots/178675108809665?sk=wall
I have been collecting crocheted squares for over three years. Basically, anytime I have scrap yarn left over from a project I would whip up one of these nifty little squares. The problem is I never got around to deciding what I wanted to do with them and how to put them together.
I belong to a wonderful group on Etsy called the Create Crochet Team. This is a team for crochet lovers. We share our work, ask questions and have monthly challenges. The monthly challenges are for fun and allow us to learn new techniques and express our creativity.
In April, one of the challenges was to learn a new technique. So I decided to learn a new technique on how to join crochet squares. Normally I would just sew them together or so single crochet stitches all the way around. After a search on google I found a tutorial on how to do a flat braid crochet joining method.
I love the way the stitches came out and I think this will be the way I go from now on. I am still slowly joining squares and hopefully I will have this blanket done soon. So stay tuned for pictures!
If you want to take a look at some other new techniques my teammates learned, go to our team blog: http://createcrochet.blogspot.com/ or our facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/CreateCrochetEtsyTeam
I belong to a wonderful group on Etsy called the Create Crochet Team. This is a team for crochet lovers. We share our work, ask questions and have monthly challenges. The monthly challenges are for fun and allow us to learn new techniques and express our creativity.
In April, one of the challenges was to learn a new technique. So I decided to learn a new technique on how to join crochet squares. Normally I would just sew them together or so single crochet stitches all the way around. After a search on google I found a tutorial on how to do a flat braid crochet joining method.
I love the way the stitches came out and I think this will be the way I go from now on. I am still slowly joining squares and hopefully I will have this blanket done soon. So stay tuned for pictures!
If you want to take a look at some other new techniques my teammates learned, go to our team blog: http://createcrochet.blogspot.com/ or our facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/CreateCrochetEtsyTeam
To Renew or Not To Renew? That is the million dollar question!
While I am no expert I have run a few experiments on my shop. I will share them with you and you decide what’s best for you!
Renewing Tool:
Best Time to Renew:
Now I have to figure out how to renew during these times. I have a day job and can’t always be on Etsy. This is where Statsy comes in handy with their FREE automatic renewing tool. I schedule my items to renew the day before they are going to expired and specified one of the times above. I’ve also chose not to renew on the weekends. For me this is when I get the opportunity to take pictures and post new items.
I will have to wait until June to determine if this is what works for my shop.
Have you tried any renewing experiments? Does renewing work for you?
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| Monster Question by boandfriends |
While I am no expert I have run a few experiments on my shop. I will share them with you and you decide what’s best for you!
Renewing Tool:
Last month I decided to give Uncle Gravy's Renewing Agent a try. I used my 10 day trial period in several different ways. First I set my items to renew every 2 hours. I did this for the first 5 days. Then I set my items to renew after 600 views. I did this for the remaining 5 days. In the month of April I renewed a total of 105 times and listed 14 new items. With all this I made one sale. The one sale was only enough to cover 40% of my Etsy bill.
Looking at Craftopolis, I received 10,560 item page views and 41 new shop hearts. Plus I was on Etsy’s front page twice – as an alternative, but I’ll take it! So after taking a look at these numbers, was it worth it? Nope, not to me. I did better with page views and shop hearts in February when I simply listed new items and only renewed 7 expired items.
Best Time to Renew:
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| Wait by michelemaule |
I decided to do another experiment in May. This time I am going to renew smartly. What does that mean? I am only going to renew as items expired. Now the key is finding out how to make the most of renewing. First is to figure out when your shop receives the most access. I found a great blog that explains how to do this. After looking at my Google Analytics I determined that my shop received the most views at 1pm, 3pm, 6pm and 9pm.
Now I have to figure out how to renew during these times. I have a day job and can’t always be on Etsy. This is where Statsy comes in handy with their FREE automatic renewing tool. I schedule my items to renew the day before they are going to expired and specified one of the times above. I’ve also chose not to renew on the weekends. For me this is when I get the opportunity to take pictures and post new items.
I will have to wait until June to determine if this is what works for my shop.
Have you tried any renewing experiments? Does renewing work for you?
Everyday new shops open up on Etsy. It amazes me all the talent that is out there. Below are just a few of my favorites I found using Pounce. Some are still waiting for their first sales. So show them some love ♥
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| CyneburgsFieldDesign |
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| Butterflyalley |
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| homegrownheavyznyc |
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| Poofette |
What is Mother's Day about? Why celebrate moms just one day of a year? Here is your history lesson of the day. Don't just celebrate something because its on the calendar.
During the 17th century, those living on the British isles initiated a religious celebration of motherhood, called Mothering Sunday, which was held on the forth Sunday during the Lenten season. This holiday featured the reunification of mothers and their children, separated when working class families had to send off their young children to be employed as house servants. On Mothering Sunday, the child servants were allowed to return home for the day to visit with their parents. The holiday's popularity faded in the 19th century, only to be reincarnated during World War II when U.S. servicemen reintroduced the sentimental (and commercial) aspects of the celebration American counterpart.
In 1858, Anna Reeves Jarvis was the first woman to hold an official celebration of mothers, when in her home state of West Virginia, she instituted Mothers' Work Day to raise awareness about local sanitation issues. During the Civil War, she expanded the scope of Mothers' Work Day to include sanitary conditions on both sides of the battlefield.
Meanwhile Julia Ward Howe, author of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic," attempted to institute a national celebration of mothers that honored women's inclinations toward peace (rather than cleanliness). In 1872, she initiated and promoted a Mother's Day for Peace, to be held on June 2, which was celebrated the following year by women in 18 cities across America. The holiday continued to be honored by Bostonian women for another decade, but eventually phased out after Howe stopped underwriting the cost of the celebrations.
Then in 1905, Anna Reeves Jarvis passed away and her daughter, Anna Jarvis, took up her mother's torch. Anna swore on her mother's grave site that she would realize her lifelong dream of creating a national day to honor mothers. In 1907, Anna launched her campaign by handing out white carnations to congregants at her mother's church in Grafton, West Virginia. In 1908, her mother's church acquiesced to Anna's request to hold a special Sunday service in honor of mothers - a tradition that spread the very next year to churches in 46 states. In 1909, Anna left her job and dedicated herself to a full-time letter-writing campaign, imploring politicians, clergymen and civic leaders to institute a national day for mothers.
In 1912, Jarvis' efforts met with success: Her home state of West Virginia adopted an official Mother's Day; two years later, the U.S. Congress passed a Joint Resolution, signed by President Wilson, establishing a national Mother's Day emphasizing the role of women in their families - and not, like Julia Ward Howe's campaign, in the public arena. Ever since, Mother's Day has been celebrated by Americans on the second Sunday in May.
Perhaps the country's greatest proponent of motherhood, Anna Jarvis ironically never had children of her own. Yet that didn't stop her from making the celebration of Mother's Day her lifelong mission. In fact, as the holiday took on a life of its own, Jarvis expressed frequent dismay over its growing commercialization. "I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit," she is quoted as saying.
Info obtain from: http://www.holidays.net/mother/story.htm
During the 17th century, those living on the British isles initiated a religious celebration of motherhood, called Mothering Sunday, which was held on the forth Sunday during the Lenten season. This holiday featured the reunification of mothers and their children, separated when working class families had to send off their young children to be employed as house servants. On Mothering Sunday, the child servants were allowed to return home for the day to visit with their parents. The holiday's popularity faded in the 19th century, only to be reincarnated during World War II when U.S. servicemen reintroduced the sentimental (and commercial) aspects of the celebration American counterpart.
In 1858, Anna Reeves Jarvis was the first woman to hold an official celebration of mothers, when in her home state of West Virginia, she instituted Mothers' Work Day to raise awareness about local sanitation issues. During the Civil War, she expanded the scope of Mothers' Work Day to include sanitary conditions on both sides of the battlefield.
Meanwhile Julia Ward Howe, author of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic," attempted to institute a national celebration of mothers that honored women's inclinations toward peace (rather than cleanliness). In 1872, she initiated and promoted a Mother's Day for Peace, to be held on June 2, which was celebrated the following year by women in 18 cities across America. The holiday continued to be honored by Bostonian women for another decade, but eventually phased out after Howe stopped underwriting the cost of the celebrations.
Then in 1905, Anna Reeves Jarvis passed away and her daughter, Anna Jarvis, took up her mother's torch. Anna swore on her mother's grave site that she would realize her lifelong dream of creating a national day to honor mothers. In 1907, Anna launched her campaign by handing out white carnations to congregants at her mother's church in Grafton, West Virginia. In 1908, her mother's church acquiesced to Anna's request to hold a special Sunday service in honor of mothers - a tradition that spread the very next year to churches in 46 states. In 1909, Anna left her job and dedicated herself to a full-time letter-writing campaign, imploring politicians, clergymen and civic leaders to institute a national day for mothers.
In 1912, Jarvis' efforts met with success: Her home state of West Virginia adopted an official Mother's Day; two years later, the U.S. Congress passed a Joint Resolution, signed by President Wilson, establishing a national Mother's Day emphasizing the role of women in their families - and not, like Julia Ward Howe's campaign, in the public arena. Ever since, Mother's Day has been celebrated by Americans on the second Sunday in May.
Perhaps the country's greatest proponent of motherhood, Anna Jarvis ironically never had children of her own. Yet that didn't stop her from making the celebration of Mother's Day her lifelong mission. In fact, as the holiday took on a life of its own, Jarvis expressed frequent dismay over its growing commercialization. "I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit," she is quoted as saying.
Info obtain from: http://www.holidays.net/mother/story.htm
I am always searching Etsy for new and unique sellers. I ran across this amazing shop with awesome mosaic art.
Tell us a little about yourself?
I'm 38 years old. I've been making mosaics for 15 years. I'm obsessed with art, science fiction and motorcycles. In fact, I just purchased a motorcycle with funds primarily acquired on Etsy.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Where does anyone's inspiration come from? It's a total mystery to me.
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
The biggest influence in my craft has been my mother, who supported us as a stained glass artist as a kid, and has always supported my art (and given me access to her scrap glass!)
What does handmade mean to you?
Handmade means designed and executed by the artist, what else?
When did you know you were an artist/maker?
I started approaching visual art with seriousness when I was about 17. I'd always been creative, but that's when I decided to pursue art to the exclusion of everything else. That's also when I discovered (not coincidentally, in retrospect) that girls dig artists...
How would you describe your creative process?
My process is two-fold. In the long run, I'm always pursuing virtuosity. With each individual piece, I'm pursuing that "zone" where time slows down and new ideas and techniques manifest themselves seemingly out of thin air. That's a strangely detached and powerful feeling.
When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
I was raised hardcore Jehovah's Witness, so I was prohibited from dressing up for Halloween. As a result of that upbringing, I've spent my entire adult life jaded and faithless, and obsessed with faith, religion and spirituality; but always as a perpetual outsider looking in.
What was the first concert you ever attended?
AC/DC's "Razor's Edge" tour, 1991. It was deafeningly loud and my ears were ringing the whole next day, but it was so worth it!
Visit Jiveworks:
Etsy Shop - http://www.etsy.com/shop/Jiveworks
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Art-of-Matthew-Alexander-Mosaics-Drawings-and-Paintings/257380511780
Tell us a little about yourself?
I'm 38 years old. I've been making mosaics for 15 years. I'm obsessed with art, science fiction and motorcycles. In fact, I just purchased a motorcycle with funds primarily acquired on Etsy.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Where does anyone's inspiration come from? It's a total mystery to me.
Who or what has been most influential in your craft?
The biggest influence in my craft has been my mother, who supported us as a stained glass artist as a kid, and has always supported my art (and given me access to her scrap glass!)
What does handmade mean to you?
Handmade means designed and executed by the artist, what else?
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| Life-size Dia de los Muertos Skull |
When did you know you were an artist/maker?
I started approaching visual art with seriousness when I was about 17. I'd always been creative, but that's when I decided to pursue art to the exclusion of everything else. That's also when I discovered (not coincidentally, in retrospect) that girls dig artists...
How would you describe your creative process?
My process is two-fold. In the long run, I'm always pursuing virtuosity. With each individual piece, I'm pursuing that "zone" where time slows down and new ideas and techniques manifest themselves seemingly out of thin air. That's a strangely detached and powerful feeling.
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| Mosaic Skull made with tumbled stained glass tiles |
When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
I was raised hardcore Jehovah's Witness, so I was prohibited from dressing up for Halloween. As a result of that upbringing, I've spent my entire adult life jaded and faithless, and obsessed with faith, religion and spirituality; but always as a perpetual outsider looking in.
What was the first concert you ever attended?
AC/DC's "Razor's Edge" tour, 1991. It was deafeningly loud and my ears were ringing the whole next day, but it was so worth it!
Visit Jiveworks:
Etsy Shop - http://www.etsy.com/shop/Jiveworks
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Art-of-Matthew-Alexander-Mosaics-Drawings-and-Paintings/257380511780
When you stand for something you don't just talk, you act. You don't just have whimsical thoughts or weak beliefs about it, you have conviction. You don't just go through the motions; you get engaged with purpose and passion.
Take a moment and ask your self these questions:
What Do I Stand For? Make a list of what you truly believe you stand for.
Do My Actions Reflect What I Stand For? For example if you say you stand for your family but you don't make time together as a family then you will want to address this. Evaluate your actions.
Make a Stand for Your Brand. Take action on the things you stand for. Right now, write down 3 actions that you can take that will reinforce what you stand for. Then take action.
Re-evaluate Every Month. This will help you be aware of whether your actions are in alignment with your beliefs. There will always be discrepancies. No one is perfect. The key is to be aware and have a desire to improve.
Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today Exodus 14:13
If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain; Exodus 18:23
No man will be able to stand against you. The LORD your God, as he promised you, will put the terror and fear of you on the whole land, wherever you go. Deuteronomy 11:25
No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Joshua 1:5
Now then, stand still and see this great thing the LORD is about to do before your eyes! 1 Samuel 12:16
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. 2 Samuel 22:34
If you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear Job11:14-15
There are nearly 483 references to the word stand in the bible (NIV).
Take yours today!
Sources : http://www.JonGordon.com
http://www.biblegateway.com/
Take a moment and ask your self these questions:
What Do I Stand For? Make a list of what you truly believe you stand for.
Do My Actions Reflect What I Stand For? For example if you say you stand for your family but you don't make time together as a family then you will want to address this. Evaluate your actions.
Make a Stand for Your Brand. Take action on the things you stand for. Right now, write down 3 actions that you can take that will reinforce what you stand for. Then take action.
Re-evaluate Every Month. This will help you be aware of whether your actions are in alignment with your beliefs. There will always be discrepancies. No one is perfect. The key is to be aware and have a desire to improve.
Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today Exodus 14:13
If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain; Exodus 18:23
No man will be able to stand against you. The LORD your God, as he promised you, will put the terror and fear of you on the whole land, wherever you go. Deuteronomy 11:25
No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Joshua 1:5
Now then, stand still and see this great thing the LORD is about to do before your eyes! 1 Samuel 12:16
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. 2 Samuel 22:34
If you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear Job11:14-15
There are nearly 483 references to the word stand in the bible (NIV).
Take yours today!
Sources : http://www.JonGordon.com
http://www.biblegateway.com/
Because its Monday and it's too early to think! Here are some interesting and weird facts for you. Don't know how many are true but at least they are interesting.
Know any interesting or weird facts? Feel free to share them with us.
Have a great Monday!
- It is not possible to fold a piece of paper in half more than seven times.
- The presidents on Mount Rushmore are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.
- Beavers front teeth have a tough orange coating that protects them from being broken or chipped while cutting wood.
- The Yo-Yo was invented in ancient Greece over 3,000 years ago.
- America's first minimum wage began at 25 cents an hour back in 1938.
- Vermont, Alaska, Hawaii and Maine are the only states in the U.S. that do not allow billboards.
- New York was the last state to put photographs on driver's licenses in 1984.
- The Empire State Building has 6,400 windows.
- It is considered an insult to tip at a restaurant in Iceland.
Know any interesting or weird facts? Feel free to share them with us.
Have a great Monday!
Moving Beyond the Moment
by Rev. James C. Matthews
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14)
Sometimes the things that hinder us from moving forward in our journey aren't always bad things. It is possible to become hostage to our past by trying to relive something that has come and gone. This can take the form of trying to relive past achievements, relationships, or defining moments in our lives. We've all met people like this. In their wallet or purse they carry pictures or newspaper clippings of a past relationship or climactic moment in their lives. They speak of the past in the present tense, as if these events happened yesterday. It is healthy to celebrate our past moments in life, but it is unhealthy to become stuck in a moment and miss the rest of life. Life is a motion picture not a snapshot. It is always moving and stands still for no one.
Those who have a snapshot perspective of life can be easily identified by their conversation. They always talk about the past and how things used to be, or they dwell on what someone did to them years ago. It's almost as if they stopped living once that moment transpired. Although they can easily recall in detail a particular moment in time that occurred years ago, they cannot clearly articulate their plans for the future.
Often, people who develop a snapshot perspective of life lose their identity in the event or situation. They define who they are by that moment in time instead of who they are as a person. I can remember meeting a man who was in his late 40s. When introducing me to this person, my friend first let me know that this man once played for a well-known professional sports team. It was only after this introduction that his name was communicated to me. In the eyes of his associates, this man was defined by a moment that had come and gone. When I asked the gentlemen what he was doing now, he appeared ashamed of his station in life. He had a respectable job, but in his eyes and those he associated with, it was not comparable to his former moment of glory.
In another instance, my wife and I met a young woman at a ministry event who was a survivor of Hurricane Katrina and had settled down in Dallas. When she introduced herself, she told me her name but had preceded this by commenting, "I'm from Katrina." When my wife and I were driving home from the engagement, she commented that every time this woman introduced herself to someone, she commented that she was "from Katrina." I've seen the same thing happen to people who have physical handicaps, been abused, divorced, incarcerated, or homeless. They've allowed their circumstances or an event to define and prescribe what their expectations in life can or should be.
You are more than a moment! You are a motion picture that is not defined by a snapshot or one frame of the picture. If you refuse to allow your past to define your future, you will discover that life has much more to offer you than a memory.
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14)
Sometimes the things that hinder us from moving forward in our journey aren't always bad things. It is possible to become hostage to our past by trying to relive something that has come and gone. This can take the form of trying to relive past achievements, relationships, or defining moments in our lives. We've all met people like this. In their wallet or purse they carry pictures or newspaper clippings of a past relationship or climactic moment in their lives. They speak of the past in the present tense, as if these events happened yesterday. It is healthy to celebrate our past moments in life, but it is unhealthy to become stuck in a moment and miss the rest of life. Life is a motion picture not a snapshot. It is always moving and stands still for no one.
Those who have a snapshot perspective of life can be easily identified by their conversation. They always talk about the past and how things used to be, or they dwell on what someone did to them years ago. It's almost as if they stopped living once that moment transpired. Although they can easily recall in detail a particular moment in time that occurred years ago, they cannot clearly articulate their plans for the future.
Often, people who develop a snapshot perspective of life lose their identity in the event or situation. They define who they are by that moment in time instead of who they are as a person. I can remember meeting a man who was in his late 40s. When introducing me to this person, my friend first let me know that this man once played for a well-known professional sports team. It was only after this introduction that his name was communicated to me. In the eyes of his associates, this man was defined by a moment that had come and gone. When I asked the gentlemen what he was doing now, he appeared ashamed of his station in life. He had a respectable job, but in his eyes and those he associated with, it was not comparable to his former moment of glory.
In another instance, my wife and I met a young woman at a ministry event who was a survivor of Hurricane Katrina and had settled down in Dallas. When she introduced herself, she told me her name but had preceded this by commenting, "I'm from Katrina." When my wife and I were driving home from the engagement, she commented that every time this woman introduced herself to someone, she commented that she was "from Katrina." I've seen the same thing happen to people who have physical handicaps, been abused, divorced, incarcerated, or homeless. They've allowed their circumstances or an event to define and prescribe what their expectations in life can or should be.
You are more than a moment! You are a motion picture that is not defined by a snapshot or one frame of the picture. If you refuse to allow your past to define your future, you will discover that life has much more to offer you than a memory.
