I"m just coming up for air now...

I'm so glad to be coming up for a breather after a busy, but wonderful holiday sales season. I'll be starting back in on my blogs and doing them often as before. So many people and etsy shops to feature.

But hey, until then, here are a few that are currently in my StudioMarcy.etsy.com shop. Nothing says Bacon, like....bacon! Mmmm, I can smell it now. And if you're going to have bacon, why not have a car hop bring it to you on a burger. So there you go.

Wishing you the best for this season, and I'll be back!
Marcy

I"ve Been Tagged by Brenda's Creations!

Brenda tagged me to give 5 Random Items About Myself. This is hard. I can write about other people so much more easily.

Here we go:

1. I've worked in a race car pit for the 24 Hours at Daytona and helped carve tread on the rain tires

2. I can write with both hands at once and it is mirror image cursive.

3. I paint watercolors

4. I won a golf trophy in Slovenia and don't know how to play golf.

5. I was a radio dj in college

And in case you haven't figured it out, some of my beads are semi autobiographical...

Thanks for visiting,
Marcy

Vacation is OVER! Bring on Christmas!

I am getting closer to being ready for the holidays. I've finally gotten my lists from both sides of the family, plans are almost figured out and we're off and running. The bead above, "She's Got Christmas on Her Mind" is partly autobiographical. It is me. (Especially those cheeks!) So maybe I'd better skip the chocolates that seem to float around the house?

Anyhow, I'll be back to bringing you a spot of my lampwork glass beads as well as continue to feature the other etsy shop owners. It's a good life, isn't it?

Marcy

Meet Vanessa Kimball on Etsy

Meet Vanessa Kimball, a gifted graphic designer who works for a design company called Ekcetera Producitions. www.ekcetera.com And if you're near Inver Grove Heights, MN, you can find her stationary at Ekcetera Inc. Vanessa also is open to doing custom work, so just convo her from her etsy shop.

Vanessa says she's got a bit of a design addiction and is always at her computer. She also mentioned an addiction to Lipsmackers Lip Gloss- Strawberry Kiwi. I think I might need to try that one.

You can also check out her blog.... http://vanessakimball.blogspot.com

Vanessa is having a special on Mix and Match Holiday cards. You can go through her shop and choose what you like. I love that idea.

Vanessa also has Etsy shop banners for sale. She will customize them for you with your shop name and tag line. She says you'll have it within 24 hours. What a great way to freshen up your shop or just have one to get started.

So stop by VanessaKimball on etsy. You'll be happy to see her great graphics that are current and delightful.

Meet StaciRose on Etsy

Her shop is StaciRose.etsy.com, but she goes by Staci and is an artist living and growing in the San Francisco Bay Area. She loves making her art. You can find her thoughts and comments at http://stacirose.blogspot.com

Staci Rose Designs - all pieces are original, hand-made, and one of a kind: Original Oil Paintings, Handmade Jewelry, Decorated Picture Frames and Mirrors, Judaica, and more great gift ideas! She also welcomes custom orders. Please send requests to stacirosedesigns@yahoo.com!

Staci has a lot of fun inventory in her shop. I chose two items that caught my eye, and both are very cool.

Title: Miraculous Flame

Citrine, Topaz & Carnelian Earrings


About This Piece:
Pewter Chanukea, Carnelian rounds & faceted buttons, Citrine faceted buttons, Topaz buttons. 2", surgical steel earhooks.

Carnelian balances creativity and mental processes. Citrine is uplifting. Topaz imparts the strength to quiet wild emotions.

Title: Spunk
Dotted Polymer Clay Pendant

About This Piece:
Ridiculously fun black pendant colorfully dotted! Measures approximately 1-1/3" x 1". Each piece is lightly varnished to protect the piece and give it a soft shine. Hole "drilled" horizontally for easy stringing. Would look lovely on a silver chain, simple cord, or incorporated into your own jewelry creations!

So stop by Staci's shop and drop her a convo, if you're interested in something special. But I'll bet you'll find something great just by looking around in her shop!

Meet zoe stewart uk on etsy

I have found a fun shop on Etsy, http://www.zoestewartuk.etsy.com. Zoe is from Edinburg, UK and has some really cute items in her shop. Her categories include, "misshapen hearts, quirky creatures, kids aprons, adult aprons and supplies".

I have to say, the first two categories really caught my attention, so those are the two I'm featuring today.

The first item is adorable. You get a piece of Scotland with it, both in name and in materials used. I've used Zoe's exact descriptions, so you can get a touch of her personality in each one. It makes me smile along with her fun items.

"hooter mctooter"
"here is a brand new creature... hooter mctooter...

he is a scottish owl and loves to sit in tree's a twoot at things passing by, he has big ears and can hear everything,

he is made from Scottish Tartan from a well known company in the scottish borders... the tartan i have used for him is the only piece i have in this one.... so you wont find another creation like him...

if you have any questions just convo me and i will answer asap xx"

And here is the description for the heart photo, that was written by Zoe.

"pink and green should always be seen...."

"here is a gorgeously long heart that is made from green cotton with pink polka dots, with a lovely ribbon in pink, reen and aqua detail to hang it, this heart is beautiful on any hook or door and looks great on the front of kids rooms, then you know who it belongs to!!

the first 1/4 (the tip) of the heart is filled with loose lavender, and the rest is filled with non alergenic fluff stuff, ( if you would love a whole heart just filled with lavender just convo me and we can get it sorted, i also fill with loose heather).

the heart is perfect for a christmas gift for a friend, or work colleague or someone a little more special,

the heart measures approx 42cm in length and approx 15cm across (at the top of the heart..)

hope you love it x x"

Wyred on Wire on Etsy

Meet Etsy shop- Wyred On Wire who has a delightful selection of jewelry showing interesting and unique styles. website www.freewebs.com/wyredonwire
blog www.wyredonwire.blogspot.com

I love this part of her bio, so here it is in her own words. "I fell in love at the tender age of eight when as a Christmas gift my grandparents gave me a large beading kit from then on I was always making some form of jewelry or another. I still very much love making jewelry the only thing thats changed is my range of materials from plastic stretch cord and plastic pony beads to sterling silver and precious stones."

She also said that she loves to use a variety of materials and that one can't limit them. Her jewelry is fresh and different as well as an extension of herself. You can't ask for more. Also, I noticed that in her listings she is very interested in pleasing the customer. It sounds like all you need to do is convo her and get the conversation going.

I have chosen my two favorite items from her shop. Here are her descriptions of the jewelry.

Uncolored Bracelet
(I love this bracelet. It can be worn anywhere and goes with everything!)

"this beautiful bracelet was handcrafted using sterling silver, Swarovski crystal, and handmade paper beads coated for durability. It's sparkle is absolutely gorgeous! Measures approx 7.5" if needed I can shorten or lengthen make this beauty yours!"


Flirting Around
(This bracelet is pretty and feminine, I think)

"This extremely flirty bracelet showcases sterling silver gently floating and flirting around round amozonite semi- precious stones. It measures approx 8.5 inches and is finished off by a beautiful handmade clasp. You will feel beautiful and flirty with this bracelet around your wrist!"

If you like the design and want a different stone or size feel free to convo me I love to make You Happy!

Meet Suzanne and Jennie of JaJaJa on Etsy

Meet Suzanne and Jennie of Ja Ja Ja on Etsy. Suzanne was kind enough to answer some of my questions, so here it is in her own words....

"My sister, Jennie Wucherer and I, Suzanne Kinavey, started Ja Ja Ja Purses. Ja Ja Ja means Yes Yes Yes in Swedish. My Dad was born in Sweden, so we grew up with Ja-this and Ja-that and Ja Right etc. There are three sisters, therefore, Ja Ja Ja. It is pronounced Ya Ya Ya, but most people call it Jaw Jaw Jaw!

We use recycled, vintage, old and some new fabrics to make our bags. Ours Grandma Smith taught us to sew, when we young. She taught us always to take our time, make it right, and make it neat! Our purses and bags are very well made, and usable. It is important to us to use as much recycled fabrics and embellishments as we can. We love to make purses and bags from fabrics which have had a "prior life"!

A reader would notice that our bags are unique, and usually one of a kind. The fabrics are so lovely. Sometimes they are a real blast to the past. We do not cut up clothes, drapery or whatever which can be used again, as is."


Recycled Coat Purse
This coat was given to us and it was quite a mess. We believe it is from the early 1960's and it made two wonderful purses. There is nothing like recycling fabrics. The fabric is very sturdy and thick. It has a pink/coral background with very light yellow or tan spots. It is simply fabulous. The purse is simply and lovely. It measures 7 by 8 by 2 inches and has a long 46 inch strap. The bag is fully with goldish satin, and has an inside pocket. The closure on the flap are magnetic snaps. Very pretty bag.

1950's Drapery Bug Purse
I just love this fabric. It is 1950's drapery fabric, recycled into a wonderful purse. The fabric has a golden background with beautiful, colorful leaves and a lady bug and cricket. Definately a botanical theme! The style is cut in diagonal, so the top is wider than the bottom. The style is nice because you do not have to dig for your things on the bottom of the purse. The purse measures 10 by 7.5 on the bottom and 10 by 11 inches at the top. It has a long 42 inch strap. It has been reinforced with fusible interfacing, fully lined, and has a matching inside pocket. The closure is a magnetic snap. It would make a great gift for you or your special friend.

Meet Toni of KuddleBugzThreadz on Etsy

Meet Toni of KuddleBugzThreadz on etsy. http://www.kuddlebugzthreadz.etsy.com.
Toni is the mother of twin girls AND she lives at the North Pole, (Fairbanks) Alaska. Wow! She said that keeping her baby girls warm and cozy was the inspiration of her shop.

I thought this store policy was fantastic. I wish more etsy shops would do this...
REFERAL DISCOUNT! Refer a Friend and get 25% off your next order! When your friend makes a purchase please have them write your name/shop name and FRIEND in the message!

So here are the descriptions from Toni's shop about the two items I chose. I Love the little girly girl ballet slippers. They're pretty, warm and soft. That's a winning combination. And the car seat cover made so much sense with the extra flap for gently protecting the baby's face from wind, rain and snow... Here you go. Enjoy

Baby Pink Ballet Slippers
Your little cutie will be the talk of your Mommy group with these Ultra Cute Ballerina Slippers! Keep her little toes warm and adorable with KuddleBugz Threadz Ballerina Slippers. They are made with wool felt, the upper is baby pink and the sole is heather gray. These little slippers will stay put the tie ribbon!

Size
0-6 Months

Alphabet Animals Infant Car Seat Cover
FALL is here and it's getting COLD!! Keep your little one comfortable and protected from the cold and wind in a brand new handmade fleece infant car seat carrier cover. Our covers are made with fleece, 100% soft, thick and warm. KuddleBugz Threadz covers are available lined with an additional layer of fleece to add a layer of cozy warmth.

There is a flap, kept up with small Velcro tabs, that flips down to protect your baby's face from wind, cold, rain and snow. No zippers that could scratch your baby, instead the carrier cover is entirely surrounded with elastic for easy-on/easy-off attachment to your infant car seat.

Covers fit all standard infant carriers, is machine washable/dryable and easy to care for. These take the place of that blanket that always blow off. Our covers are loose enough allowing your baby to move around freely.

Fabulous Article about Ancient Glass Bead Discovery in Georgia!

I am taking a minute to tell all my bead friends about this wonderful article in our Atlanta, Georgia newspaper. It discusses the discovery of an Italian glass bead in Georgia, which may rewrite some of our history. Please read the article.

http://www.ajc.com/search/content/living/stories/2007/11/12/fernbank_1112.html

Marcy

Meet Paulette of PauletteInsall on Etsy

Meet Paulette of PauletteInsall.etsy.com

Like many other artists, Paulette has been creative from a very young age. From making knotted bracelets and hair accessories as a child to taking photos for her high school year book when she was older. She never thought of herself as an artist until a few years ago. For many years she dreamed of painting, but could never bring herself to pick up a paint brush until October of 2006. That's when her love of creating stories with paint and paper began.

These days when she’s not busy entertaining her very busy four year old son, you will find her stealing any moment she can in her home studio pouring her thoughts and emotions out into the visual stories she creates through her art.

I've included two photos from her shop of her artwork and Paulette's own words describing them.

Listen -- ART PRINT by mixed media artist Paulette Insall -- 6x6
♥♥♥ Story behind the original painting ♥♥♥ (included)
Lately I've had some people in my life say things to make me doubt myself and this path I've chosen (or that has chosen me, depending on the way you look at it). This painting was created as a reminder to myself to listen to my heart and to God no matter what others say.

Print Size: 6" X 6" on 8" x 10" on white matte coated heavyweight paper

ART PRINT NOTECARDS (set of 3) from mixed media artist Paulette Insall
Artist: Paulette Insall (www.pauletteinsall.com)
Size: 3.75" x 5.125" (dimensions of notecards)

Three quality cream linen blank notecards with fine art prints of original paintings mounted to front. Prints are printed with archival inks on coated matte paper. Keep for yourself to display or send to a friend with included matching envelopes. Will be shipped to you in a inside a resealable clear cellophane sleeve in a stiff protective envelope.

Title of art print notecards in this set (stories also included on back of each card):
"Waking Dream", "Listen", & "Within Reach"

Meet Karen of Kala on etsy

Meet Karen of www.Kala.etsy.com, a mixed media artist from Cambridge in the UK and who specialises in stationery, gifts and accessories for weddings and christenings. She also loves collage, illustration and textiles so you will find a bit of everything in her shop! With a background as a professional artist and illustrator, you'll see quite a variety in her shop. She draws, paints, collages, makes jewelry and crochets. Karen has recently opened another shop on etsy to house her crafts, and jewelry... www.upwiththelark.etsy.com.

My main website is www.chalkhillstudio.co.uk which is where I sell my stationery and gifts for those special moments in our lives! To see what goes on in my life visit my blog http://karenjinks.blogspot.com/

Karen also does custom work. I've highlighted one of her delightful offerings below.

I've chosen two great items from her shop. I love both of them and hope you do too.

Peony Pink - 8 x 10 print
Original pink peony photo print. Printed on glossy photo paper with lightfast photographic inks, 8 x 10 inches, including white border for framing.

Custom Drawing
Commission a beautiful pencil drawing of your little darling and capture that moment forever. I use A3 size quality artists cartridge paper (white) or ingres paper (coloured) and for best results I require one or two large, well focused photographs to work from.

Meet BunniesHoney on Etsy!

Meet Bunnieshoney on etsy. http://www.bunnieshoney.com . She is a twenty year old Canadian artist and makes these darling little creations in between photographing bands and going to college full time! She does custom work and would love to take on any projects you have in mind, please feel free to contact her!

Here are a couple of items from her shop:

Vanilla Mocha All Natural Soap
Can't bring your cup of Joe in the shower? Well, now you can! This is approximately 3 ounces of all natural glycerin soap infused with fresh coffee grounds and some vanilla to give it that extra fresh sugary latte scent!

Coffee – A natural exfoliant; ground coffee removes dead skin cells and the antiseptic and deodorant keep the skin feeling fresh and clean. It is also proven that coffee reduces the look of cellulite and varicose veins, as well as increase metabolism.

Yummy Earring Studs
Available in chocolate or vanilla sprinkled donuts, watermelon slices, or strawberries (not pictured), these yummy looking earrings will surely earn you some compliments!

Handcrafted and mounted on sterling silver posts with sterling silver butterfly backings. Please state in your order which studs you'd like. Please note: This is for ONE pair of earrings only!

Meet ellebelleonetsy

Elle Belle is the place to find handmade, boutique quality baby items that make being a Mom easier and more fun!

It all started when a group of friends started making things for their own children and realized that even though we each only had one or two things they specialize in, colaborating is more fun and makes for a shop full of things they all absolutely couldn't live without. Co-owner, Stacey's daughter's name is Elle, Karie always called her Elle Belle and it just stuck. Stacey, works on Elle Belle with 3 of her friends and her Mom. You can find out more about them on the Elle Belle website, the artist profile pages http://ellebelleonline.com

Stacey says she loves their products because they're unique with a personal touch that you rarely find at traditional shops. "I hope our customers notice the thoughtfulness that go into each product," she added.

Here are just a portion of the listing information for each featured photo. Please visit the shop for a more complete description...

••My Favorite Ring Sling
Slings are the most versatile, comfortable and convenient way for you to carry your baby. They fit in your diaper bag, you don’t need a big trunk or SUV to carry one and they’re not just a load off of your back and arms, they’re really comforting for your child as well.

Elle Belle rings sling are different than most sling you'll find on the market. I make them with less material so that they're not hot, bulky, or hanging down to your ankles, the pleated shoulder helps the fabric spread out across your shoulder and back which distributes baby's weight more evenly, and the light weight aluminum rings are made specifically for slings, they've been tested to hold up to 200 lbs (don't try that at home!). You'll receive a set of instructions on how to use the sling to carry your baby in 5 different positions and my email address if you need some one on one help.

••Personalized Crinkle Corner Satin and Fleece Tag Blanket
Each Elle Belle original Tag Blanket is a one of a kind creation designed to engage your little one in visual, auditory, and tactile exploration. The extraordinarily soft fleece and satin combination make this blanket a favorite cuddly companion. An improvement over store bought versions; the 12 tags on each blanket are all unique in texture, size, and color. Elle Belle blankets also feature crinkle material in one corner. These blankets are 14 x 14 inches which makes them really portable so baby can easily play with them in their car seat and they fit nicely in a diaper bag.

This listing is for a personalized tag blanket. Elle Belle will machine embroider baby's name, monogram and/or birthday, making this the perfect unique baby gift!

Meet Corline of MommyandMeBoutique on Etsy

Meet Corline of. MommyandMeBoutique on Etsy. (http://www.MommyandMeBoutique.com) She also has a blog, http://themommyandmeboutique.blogspot.com .

Corline started making aprons about 2 years. Most of the patterns she designs herself. "I designed a terry cloth baby bathing apron and embroidered across the top Mommy&Me - I thought bathing time was between the mommy and baby and it should be a fun time. So - I thought that would be a cute name for the etsy store. Also, it allowed me to incorporate my love for children and baby things.", she said.

" I love to "shop" for designer fabrics from the internet and the fabric I select has an influence on how I use them. Also I keep an eye on fashion and color and often incorporate some of these details into my styles," Corline added.

Here are Corline's descriptions for the above photos. She prides herself in the originality of her design and workmanship. With good reason.

••Retro Print Apron Cookies Anyone
Little girls love aprons and this is a cutie with the retro cooking print and the darling ruffles all around. Ties in bow in the back. Your little girl would have such fun baking the cookies for family and friends. Makes a sweet gift.
Apron is 100 percent cotton, size fits 2 thru 4, machine washable, cool, tumble dry. Well made for long lasting wear.

This little apron will ship first class within 48 hours of purchase. Packed in a box, wrapped in tissue, tied with a ribbon. Customer satisfaction is my satisfaction. Thank you for viewing Mommy and Me Boutique.

••Boutique Toddler 3 Tier Paris Skirt
Oh so chic! Paris, Eiffel Tower print was used for the yoke of the darling skirt. It has 3 tier ruffles with an overlay of black tule on the bottom ruffle. Elastic waist. Yoke is fully lined. Skirt measures 11 and 1/2 inches from waistband to skirt hem.

100% cotton, washable cool water, tumble dry, steam press.
Looks cute paired with leggings. Little girls love the full ruffle look.
All seams serged and machined stitched for lasting quality

Meet Simply Said By Sarah from Etsy

You might want to visit Simply Said by Sarah on etsy, http://www.simplysaidbysarah.etsy.com
I found some wonderful stocking stuffer and teacher type gifts there that are perfect for the holidays. I noticed cards, magnets, sticky notes, custom items, gift sets and best of all, a sale section too.

If you're looking for something in particular and you dont see it here, let Sarah know and she will gladly make it for you. She makes personalized invitations, cards, tags and magnets (monogrammed, initials, your name, etc.) upon request and can do packs/sets of cards for you too, just let her know! ..just convo her and let her know what it is you're looking for!

Here are her descriptions for the two photos of items from her shop. I hope you stop by there and visit.
Holly Sticky Notes
Sticky Notepad measures 3"x3" and has a fun, sturdy cover. This pad has 100 green sticky note pages with holly & berries printed on the cover.


Winter Hats Sticky Note Pad
Be the coolest one at school or work with these fun sticky notes!

Sticky Notepad measures 3"x3" and has a fun, sturdy cover. This pad has 100 green sticky note pages with cute winter snow hats printed on the cover. The cover has an almost gold shine to it, making it extra special!

Meet Beth of Cryztalvisions on Etsy

Meet Beth Alexander of Cryztalvisions - http://cryztalvisions.etsy.com and http://www.cryztalvisions.com

I asked Beth how her shop got its name? She replied with this very sweet answer, "Cryztalvisions with a "Z" is an homage to a great teacher I had in my youth who shared her passion for gemstones and crystals with me. She prounounced crystals "CreeZztals", so my shop name reminds me of her everytime I post or sell an item."

Her best inspirations always come from nature whether it's a walk through the redwoods, or a visit to the beach. She said she always comes back to her workshop refreshed and full of new ideas. "I also find inspiration in the materials I work with. Sometimes all I need to do is spread out some gemstones and I start to see new design possibilities, it's as if some pieces actually design themselves. A lot of my work is influenced by ancient jewelry fabrication techniques. I love to learn various techniques that have been used throughout history and find ways to infuse a modern day spark," she added.

As a shop owner, I always ask other shop owners, " What do you want the reader to notice about your work?"
Beth said, "Most of my designs are one of a kind items. I believe that certain stones resonate better with certain people. I believe that each piece I create will attract just the right person to wear it. When I remember to keep this in mind while I'm working, some truly special pieces come to life right before my eyes. Jewelry is more than mere adornment to me, when you pick a piece that attracts you, that you really resonate with, it is an avenue of outwardly expressing a little of your inner beauty and magic."

I've included photos and Beth's description of a few items from her shop.

Fine Silver Handcrafted Tree of Life Pendant with hidden Bail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7375644

This is the first in my new "Tree of Life" series.

This pendant in lovingly handcrafted of over 12 grams of pure (99.9%) silver. I added a light patina to the silver to accentuate the twisting, swirling branches and spiraling roots of the tree. High in the tree top sits a silvery dichroic glass cabochon adding just the right amount of sparkle and light.

The tree is hand drawn free form using precious metal clay from a syringe, so each tree is unique.

There is a hidden coiled slide bail in the back that will accommodate large chains and cords and smaller omega chains.

The pendant measures: 2"L x 1-1/2"W

The Tree of life is a universal motif, found in every ancient culture- a symbol of the uniting of heaven and earth, spiritual nourishment, and even enlightenment.

Sugilite and Amethyst Visions Handcrafted Necklace
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7368588

One-of-a-kind Design!

I love the color combination of the deep purples in this fabulous Sugilite stone and Amethyst beads along with the earth tones of the Golden Horse Jasper beads!

The focal pendant features a large AAA quality Sugilite stone set in a one-of-a-kind wire wrap design. Above the Sugilite is a Golden Horse Jasper Bead with fabulous colors and a natural abstract pattern. The bead is inside a large twisted rope circle of sterling silver with a butterfly shaped bail.

The chain is Sterling Silver, each link has been handcrafted. There are rectangle Grade A amethyst beads and additional Golden Horse Jasper beads integrated into the chain.

Chain length: 17"
Clasp: Handcrafted Spiral & hook and eye clasp
Pendant drops about 3-1/4" down from the chain.

I really love the items in her shop. In fact, as I was looking through it, I've been strongly contemplating a pair of earrings that I love. I decided not to feature them, because they might just be gone, before you read this!

Thanks for visiting my blog,
Marcy

Whew, Finally Out of October

You know, Oktoberfest can really wear a girl out. All the oompah bands and polkas going on around here.
So now I'm ready for the milder Christmas Holiday season. (You do see my tongue planted firmly in cheek, don't you?)
Actually, it's my favorite holiday of the year. Not the receiving presents part...okay, I can like that part too, but more the spirit, the fun of making handmade gifts for my friends and family.

This year I'm making everyone ornaments. And hopefully, they'll be ornaments that will be designed just specifically for what the person likes. Some will receive my "Pet Portraits" for their favorite dogs or cats, some will find hobbies, or collections represented and others, who tend to be traditional, will receive more of the traditional kind too. Like the Santa that is pictured above. My sister adores seashells, so I'm going to be making those for her. (She doesn't read my blog, so I'm safe.)

So if anyone has a request for a lampwork bead that can become an ornament by just wiring it with a loop, please feel free to contact me through my etsy shop site.... http://www.StudioMarcy.etsy.com. I've got some custom orders going now that are going to make some folks very happy this holiday.

Thanks for stopping by,
Marcy

Meet Phyllis of Personal Treasures and Mufi Jewels

Meet Phyllis Mufson of Personal Treasures: http://personaltreasures.etsy.com, http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com and Mufi Jewels: http://mufi.etsy.com
Is there a little story about how you got that name?

"Personal Treasures says to me that these pieces are intimate and mean something special to the people who buy them. I love hearing from someone that what she bought is a favorite or that she wears it all the time.
Mufi is my nickname. What everyone, including teachers called me growing up. Now I'm only Mufi to my husband and childhood friends."

What are the major influences in your style?

"I had a career as a textile artist before picking up a bead. My background in textiles influences how I design. I'm very concerned with drape and how the jewelry moves with the body. I'm also inspired by the stones, I love stones, and by my customers. In addition to ETSY I sell through trunk shows so I see women interact with the jewelry; talk with them about what interests them, and which designs are particularly flattering to wear."

Phyllis also would like everyone to know that almost all of the work is one of a kind. In a few cases she has limited editions, and an edition of 5 is the largest she has made.

Phyllis mentioned, "They're made carefully with love. If I'm not satisfied with a piece I'll keep making it over until I am." The materials are sterling silver, gold-filled and vermeil, gemstones and pearls. (Some additional materials at the Mufi store.) She is working with outstanding stones for special pieces for the holidays, so please check out both stores.

Both of the photos come from Personal Treasures. I think this charm necklace is to die for. Wow! It just seems like it fits the store title of Personal Treasures. Also I chose these earrings, because they looked perfect for so many occasions, lovely quality, (as everything is in her stores), and would sparkle just the right amount for a holiday party. Here are the descriptions, straight from the shop for each photo.

Turquoise and Coral Charming Necklace

Turquoise and Coral Charming Necklace - Three styles of turquoise, red coral and vermeil charms dangle charmingly on a gold-filled long/short chain. Vermeil and coral stations attach the necklace to the vermeil hook clasp and add interest to the back.

The necklace measures approximately 17 inches including the clasp

Bold Smokey Quartz Earrings

Bold Smokey Quartz Earrings - Beautiful, dark, sparkling, faceted Smokey Quartz nuggets are wrapped with gold-filled wire onto clean, modern arc-shaped ear wires. Lighter than they look, the nuggets are a comfortable weight.

The earrings measure 1 3/4 inches from top of arc to bottom of dangling nugget.

Meet Jodi of Alaska Hot Doggies

Meet Jodi Hughes of Alaska Hot Doggies from Anchorage, Alaska who is also a Etsy Fiber Arts Street Team member.

Jodi said, "By day, I masquerade as Application Analyst for a large corporation. I take conference calls in my jammies and analyze code without even stepping out of the house! But in order to bring some originality into my world, away from the logical rules, I sneak away from the phone and emails to play in marbling goop! It calms my nerves and helps me feel creative. I get to color outside the lines, unlike my day job!

I enjoy marbling the most. This last month, I’ve started moving away from regular clothes and moving towards unconvential textiles and other materials. I’ve been experimenting with wood, plastic & glass which have proved to be challenging. I’ve also started marbling different paper items. I recently marbled business card stock that turned out wonderful and really make my business card standout from most."

I love the way Jodi expresses her love of marbling through so many mediums. Her shop is a delight to view. Lots of gorgeous colors and I'm sure many more to come. The pink purse in the photo really is gorgeous. Below are the descriptions that Jodi wrote about the items featured. It's fun to read her thoughts.

Report Seattle brand sandals - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6670207
"I stumbled on this great pair of Report brand sandals (size 9) but felt they just needed something....sooo...I marbled them! Colored in blue, green and just a little black, these are so fun and I'm so happy with how they turned out. The shoes have been sprayed with a protective coating so all you need to do it put them on & go! Enjoy this one-of-a-kind wearable art!"

Silk Purse - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6606569
Beautifully made 12.5mm charmeuse bag, lined in silk habotai with a braided silk ball and loop closure. Item measures 4.5" x 6.25" with a 41" strap. Purse was hand dyed bright pink then marbled with blue & purple


Here are other places to find Alaska Hot Doggies/ Jodi
http://www.indiepublic.com/profile/AkHotDoggies
www.myspace.akhotdoggies.com.
http://akhotdoggies.blogspot.com

Meet Gina of ModaDesigns, CheapBoutique and JourneyInJewellery

Meet Gina of multiple shops on etsy...ModaDesigns, CheapBoutique and JourneyInJewellery
Web Address: all of the above with .etsy.com added

Gina gets a great deal of inspiration by seeing the amazing designs put up on Etsy. One just recently solved her quandry for making rings! She sees how others make ear wires so she doesn't have to purchase them, she sees how people have soldered something so it encourages her to learn to solder!

Gina has had her shops almost two years on Etsy and it's her only source of income.

Gina offers the following advice for other etsy shop owners, "Promote, promote, promote! Put your shop addy in your email's Signature file so it follows every email you send. Join interest groups and drop your shop name frequently. I found Etsy through just such an interest group-the woman had her shop name in her signature which followed her posting! Wear your own designs and tell people who compliment you on them that they are for sale! Stay active in the Forums and Chats! Many of my customers come to me from reading my posts in the forums!"

Anything you would like to add?" Research every potential market. If it looks good, try it for a while. If it doesn't produce, drop it. Selling jewellery on Etsy has slowed to a non-existant crawl for me, so I spend my time looking for local outlets! I also sell supplies to support my jewellery shops!"

I've featured two items from Gina's Moda Design shop and included her description too.

Peach Pearl & Sterling Silver Necklace With Coin Pearl REDUCED
"(15.5" NL, 3x4.2mm FWP,11x6mm SS clasp,2mm SS beads, 12x4mm coin FWP)
This necklace has the illusion of being knotted between the pearls and has the ever-popular coin pearl at the center!"

Pink Tourmaline and Sterling Silver Bali Beads Charm-Style Bracelet (bxR)
"Pink Tourmaline Raw Chunks and Tumbled Pebbles Bracelet with Sterling Silver Bali Beads Will Make Your Arm an Art Gallery!
This piece is absolutly stunning, you have to see it to believe it! I took unworked, raw Pink Tourmaline from a private collector's collection from which I've chosen other fine raw stones such as Sapphire and Labradorite, and combined the best ones with sterling silver Bali beads in various shapes, and hand-linked them together to create this work of art!"

Please visit my supplies shop here on Etsy; http://cheapboutique.etsy.com

Meet Valerie of Wanderlust & Pixiedust

Meet Valerie of Wanderlust & Pixiedust on etsy. (http://www.wanderlustNpixiedust.etsy.com)
Valerie told me, " My name is more an expression of me that of what I sell. That's probably mistake number #! in the business world but it feels right to me. I chose "Wanderlust" because of my love and passion for travel, flying and the rest of the big, wide world. "Pixiedust" was chosen because I've never stopped loving fairly tales and other magical tales. It is also a constant reminder to myself to never give up. To continue to dream and to believe in the impossible."

She said major influences in her shop would be the aforementioned travel, vintage and/or antique religious images and her love and obsession with all things old and interesting. She's hoping to offer additional vintage influenced jewelry soon along with a bigger selection of vintage collectibles.

I've added two photos of items offered in her shop, along with their description as Valerie has written it.

Beautiful Silver and Blue Magic Crafting Crown
"I made my first crown and put it on my melon without thinking, every time I went into my crafting room to play. Seemed to work wonders. Hmm...perhaps others might wish for a Magic Crafting Crown of their very own? This first crown I offer for sale, I decided to do in blue & sparkling silver. That silver metal flower like piece in the center is a vintage, Japanese, Christmas, ornament reflector. I found a wonderous stash of these recently at an estate sale and didn't quite know what to do with them. This seemed like the thing to do. I think it came out appearing kind of art nouveau style. You know the lovely image of the art nouveau lady with the bright orange poppies on either side of her head? Well now you can pretend to be your very own vision of loveliness while hanging out in your studio."


Rosary Style Necklace with Vintage Crucifix.
"This is a necklace that I am calling "Rosary" style. I have been hoping to create handmade rosaries but do not have all the necessary parts just yet. The necessary part in this case being a traditonal center. Instead I've used a lovely copper piece. This necklace was created using man made fresh water style pearls in a color that I would best describe as being a beautiful aquamarine. I've used copper for the "Our Father" beads. There are a total of 53 "Ave" beads. Starting off this piece is a vintage crucifix. If you are looking for a unique gift for that special someone, you've come to the right place..."

One other thing, Valerie offers glitter and mica flakes. If you love sparkles the way I do, she has some beautiful colors and a little bit goes so far. You might want to check that out too.

So stop by WanderlustNPixiedust for some vintage, altered art supplies, and andmade jewelry.

Meet Sarah and Carol of Creative Sundries

Meet Sarah and Carol Eshelman of Creative Sundries - http://creativesundries.etsy.com

I asked Sarah to explain how they chose their shop name, and this is what she said, "We were playing around with names, came up with CreativeSundries, and my little hedgehog, Bob, expressed his approval with a little hedgie noise. We've been CreativeSundries ever since!"

Don't you just love a hedgehog choosing your name? Where was he when I was doing it?

They love to make things that are fun, unique, and sometimes silly, as you will seein the items I've featured.


Photos:
Fuse Earrings SS Sterling Silver Ear Wires
These are real fuses!

2A 250V automotive fuses are attached to sterling silver ear wires.
The fuses measure about 1 inch, or 2.5 cm. long.

Ballerina Necklace

La da dee, la da dah

Dancing is so fun.
This necklace features a ballerina in a fancy pink tutu.
A bail is adhered to her headpiece and attached it to a silver-plated ball chain necklace.

The ballerina is about 2 inches (5 cm.) tall. The necklace is approximately 24 inches (60 cm.) long.

Meet Kellie from Mineral Magic

Meet Kellie Peterson of Mineral Magic, www.mineralmagiccosmetics.com and www.mineralmagic.etsy.com.
Kellie is married with one child and lives in Pennsylvania. Kellie has sensitive skin and wanted to make a product for herself that would be soothing.

Kellie tells me that she takes great pride in her makeup line and guarantee 100% satisfaction. Mineral makeup is pure, crushed minerals from the earth, that improves your skin condition. It provides an SPF (sun protection factor) of up to 20, depending on how much you apply. It is an anti-inflamatory for your skin, as well. She mentioned that her makeup does NOT contain bismuth oxychloride, which is kin to arsenic, and is most likely the reason for skin discomfort and bad skin reaction.

Since these minerals are 100% pure, bacteria cannot be supported and there is no expiration date. There is also virtually no allergy risk. It won't clog your pores and is used as a mineral supplement for your skin.

And as a Mom, I like the way it's a family business, too. Kellie said, "I have recently added my nine-year-old son in my store. He is autistic and makes smelly jelly, aroma beads and room spray. I am teaching him business and how to manage his money." Wow, that's great!

I'm featuring two items from her shop and their description.

VEGAN Sale Fall Color Kit Nunber 2 By Mineral Magic Plus BONUSES

Tis the season. It is time to get out your Fall colors!
I've taken the guess work out for you! Vegan makeup.

5 gram jar of Brown
5 gram jar of Burgundy Rose (Shimmer)
5 Gram Jar of Terra Cotta-Matte (no shimmer)
10 gram jar of terra Cotta a warm peachy color

6 Piece brush COMPACT plus a carrying case - made of pony and goat hair
Mini baby buki brush
Instruction magnet
Instruction brochure
BONUS------Hand and body lotion 2 ounces
BONUS------Lip BALM

AND...

Sugar Body Scrub by Mineral Magic Choose Scented or Unscented

You will receive one 2 Ounce jar of sugar scrub. This weighs 3.6 Ounces!
Handmade with love. Just mix and apply once you receive it. Blend together upon opening because sometimes the scrub ingredients might separate a little during shipment.
Sugar, grape seed oil,a vocado oils, glycerine, and scent.

SCENTED SCRUBS ARE:
Almond-very lightly scented.
Almond & Vanilla-light scent.
Anise-just the faintest scent.
Peppermint-barely there hint of mint.
Lemon-just the faintest scent.
Tea Tree & Mint-Very lightly scented.
Vanilla-Light scent
**Unscented-for the person who cannot tolerate fragrance**
I wanted to get you clean and exfoliated, not dunked in a vat of lingering, repelling fragrance.
More scents to come, all barely scented, not perfumed.

Meet Adrienne and Charlotte of Personality Plus Boutique on etsy

Meet Adrienne Nielsen and her mom, Charlotte of Personality Plus Boutique
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5326355

Adrienne told me, "When trying to find a name that wasn't already taken for our main website I kept thinking about the personality our products take on when they are customized. I just went off of this and had to add the boutique part because somebody already had Personality Plus."

They do commercial embroidery and are trying to fill a niche in the embroidery business that seems to be left empty. Commercial embroidery (which means top quality machines...not just a small home machine) tends to do mostly big businesses or team sports. They wanted to do commercial embroidery on personal items. Adrienne said they love finding unique designs for people and they feel like they are meeting people's expectations for uniqueness.

When asked what do they want the customer to know, Adrienne replied, "The quality embroidery of course! We only use top quality products to embroider on, and then we add top quality embroidery...Sometimes on small home machines you will get unraveling thread or fading of colors. you will NOT get that on our work! I also want people to notice how much they can personalize their product. They get to choose the product, choose the color of the product, the image or name and the colors of the image or name! The possibilities are limitless!"

I was impressed. I love having a resource for good quality custom work. And with the holidays coming up, personalizing gifts means so much to the recipient.

Here are two items Daughter of God tote bag and Child of God tote bag from their shop. Both come in many colors and many options for personalization. They make great church bags too. I counted 17 color options and the Hyacinth color was my favorite.

Please stop by their shop.

Meet Joanne of Coconut Palm Designs

Meet Joanne Abrahams of CoconutPalmDesigns,( http://www.coconutpalmdesigns.etsy.com)
Joanne chose her shop name because she lives in Belize and the planted over 500 coconut trees last year, so coconuts were in her head. Also she wanted something to signify that she lives in a tropical country but that it doesn't relate specifically to one type of craft or another.

Because Joanne, a Canadian, is a graphic designer who loves woodworking and sign design and as always, loves art.

Here are two of the great signs in Joanne's shop. They're handmade, carved and painted beautifully. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Zig Zag Welcome Sign
his Welcome sign is hand painted blue. All the details are carved out using a dremel and the zig zag border is painted back in in green, carmel and red.

Butterfly Welcome Sign - Custom Design
This Welcome sign is hand painted in purple. The words, butterflies and fish on the main part are carved out using a dremel and then the butterflies and fish are painted back in.

Sign measures 10" x 3.5" with the butterfly measuring almost 3" x 3".

It is hung with ribbon braided with wire for durability and sealed against the elements with an acrylic spray finish