Makin the Best Of It

Gems with Style

2012-01-30T10:25:00.000-05:00

John is like nobody I've ever met. He is married with 4 children and 8 grandchildren! In addition to being a rabid reader and hockey fan, he works with the American Red Cross through Volunteer Disaster Services and is a retired paramedic and educator.

So how does a guy like this fit into handmade? Well, his darling wife bought a pack of faceted stones and asked him to identify them...now what do you do with them? Easy, you learn to work with metal and create some of the most beautiful works of wearable art. John is now the president of the Western South Carolina Gem and Mineral Society and makes the most amazing gems I've ever seen...and am dying to use in coordination with a chainmaille style design.

John soon began working under the name RasmussenGems and has culled his skills to include cutting stones, wrapping in copper and silver and a host of other experiments, all of which come out like mini works of art.

Ready to see what a man in a woman dominated world of jewelry design can do? Well, he is easy to find on the HandmadeArtistsShop as well as on FaceBook. Check out his work and prepare to drool.

Gifts from the Heart

2012-01-23T06:54:00.000-05:00

There is something so endearing about a handmade teddy bear or hand knit baby blanket that so many people understand...including Sandi of IKnitQuiltSew who has blessed countless coworkers, friends and family with just such gifts from the heart.

Sandi works for a university where she tracks down answers for students regarding different disciplines of study. When not working, she can be found tramping around her Utah home on the lookout for the amazing beauty of nature or fishing with her husband; but her real passion in yarn!

Sandi had been creating since she was a child which she learned by watching her grandmothers. She picked up where they left off and has continued the legacy of handmade creations focusing on the most darling knitted items and even taught herself to quilt! She can create things as simple as dishcloths to the most stunning quilts I have ever seen.

One of my favorite things about this talented lady is that she really cares about keeping her work personal. She was hesitant about starting a business selling her creations because she was afraid that by making them for a mass market, instead of personal friends, they would lose something. So glad Sandi managed to get over that one and introduce her work to the world! She makes each and every piece as if she is working for her best friend and the love shows in the quality every time.

Are you ready to see what a truly talented lady with a passion for nature and handmade can turn out...are you ready for the "awwwwwwww" reaction? Well, Sandi is pretty easy to find on the web. You can check out her shop on the HandmadeArtistsShop and even follow a quilt through its process on her blog!

Soapy Talent

2012-01-17T09:26:00.000-05:00

You all know that for obvious reasons, I am a sucker for a husband and wife team. I understand the upsides of working with something that knows you better than anyone else in the world and the downside of working with someone that knows you better than anyone else in the world.

One of my all time favorite teams is the creators extraordinaire of Reef Botanicals, makers of easily the most amazing handmade soap on the planet. Big build-up, I know, but I really mean every word of it. You see, my skin is super sensitive and so many other face washes and soap products left me less than thrilled. After trying out Larissa's Purity soap I was instantly hooked and ready to try out more of their products. Since then, I have happily been working my way through their line, even buying a men's gift basket for my own hubby to try!

Now, as if working on a handmade soap company isn't enough for one dynamic couple, Larissa is also a practicing attorney (sorry, that practicing in front of doctors and lawyers always cracks me up) as well as the most amazing face painter I have ever seen. I've done numerouse craft shows and street fairs with my own work and watched face painters galore, but never have I seen someone that could take a squirming child and transform them into an animal so realistic you have to look twice in a matter of minutes.

Now, I would say, "OK, my plate is full," but no, Larissa is also an actor at a local theater company and is thinking of taking on a part time position teaching young kids acting! Toss is her other creative endeavors such as sewing and knitting and I've decided that somehow she has managed to get 48 hour days while the rest of us only get 24.

Ready to see what this talented lady, along with her darling husband can create? I am sure that you will not be disappointed in any way. Check out her shop on the HandmadeArtistsShop as well as her stand alone website. To hear more about her soapy ways, check out her blog as well as her facepainting!

Braidlets?

2012-01-09T17:46:00.000-05:00

Now I know that there are so many amazing people out there that can take an object and transform it in a new and exciting way, but when I saw what Cari of CrochetHooked had done with a seemingly simple piece of wire and beads I was floored!

She worked for a time as a framer for a craft store which meant that she had access to all the new craft books that came out...lucky girl! Cari had already been teaching beginner crochet at the store for some time when she found a new book about crocheting with wire. Well, the wheels began turning right there and then. If you can crochet with wire and beads why can't you braid with it? Cari grabbed her supplies and created her first braided wire and bead bracelet, which her husband instantly dubbed a Braidlet.

What seems like a fairly simple concept can create mind blowingly beautiful works of wearable art in the hands of someone with an eye for color and design. Everything from crystals to pearl to seed beads are fair game. If Cari likes the combination they will surely become a Braidlet.

Now, for all you do it yourselfers out there that love to look at others talent and say "I can do that" Cari has created tutorials explaining everything step by step using her knowledge of teaching crochet to make sure that her instructions are clear and easy to understand. I have no doubt that you will quickly have a piece of wearable art after following her easy pictures and instructions.

So, are you ready to see what a Braidlet can be? Check out Cari's shop on the HandmadeArtistsShop as well as her own blog where she offers advice and even a free beginning tutorial on crocheting with wire and beads to get you going.

Once Upon a Time The Handmade Artists Forum was Born

2012-01-02T15:34:00.000-05:00

My life revolves around crafts and creating in any media I can get my hands on...you might say I have a serious case of Crafter's ADD; a chronic condition which requires boxes and bags of pieces and parts that could be “something” someday and a ridiculous collection of websites and books on crafts I want to try. In addition, we were driven to connect with other like minded and creative people, but the Yahoo group just weren't for us and the Handmade Artists Forum was soon born. Beginning as a humble page on one of our own sites, it quickly grew into a forum of its own open to anyone that created, loved, sold handmade. We encouraged people to posts links to their various shops and blogs and offered to promote members through Twitter, StumbleUpon, and Featured Member Ads.

Before long, the member list started growing! Imagine our surprise when we had over 100 crafters from around the world join up! We realized that this was going to be much bigger than our little site so we bought the domain and set up the HandmadeAritistsForum.com on its own server. Members kept coming…and coming…and coming! Soon, we were over 300 members strong! Andrew and I worked hard to promote our members through Twitter and Stumble and people started getting hits on their shops no matter what venue they sold on! We began a blog to feature members and encouraged members to write up articles about their various crafts-linking of course-to their own sites.

Like any large group, there were some bumps in the road, but the members …600 members…are you kidding me??? Andrew and I couldn’t keep up, so some wonderful members decided to step in and help! We have bloggers, twitterers, stumblers, plurkers, and facebookers (boy, created my own language here didn’t I?). Soon we had Twitter rings and Blog rings that were attracting attention of the handmade world. We have weekly chats every Thursday evening (EST) where we discuss anything from sales, to creative process, to life in general...there have been many chats where nobody knows quite how we ended up on some odd topic...but we just roll with it and enjoy the company of our new friends.

Now, I have sold on a variety of sites such and each had their pluses as well as minuses. Poor Andrew had to listen to my complaining about what each didn’t have…but what do you do? It is hard to be seen on multi-vendor sites but even harder to get found on your own site! Answer? HandmadeArtistsShop was born. Now, this shop was not on the radar when the forum began. We are not coders and had no clue as to how to set up a multi-vendor shopping site; but if Andrew is one thing, it is tenacious! He did hours of research into various shopping carts and hundreds of emails to an online friend who understood code. We talked about what a shop needed to have and through a lot of trial and error the HandmadeArtistsShop was born. The shop went through many growing pains but has steadily become better and easier to use and our members are seeing sales without having to compete with mass produced or commercial supplies! Finally, a site that puts handmade in its own category and calls it special enough for its own site! Our shop members even have the option of filling out a short survey form and being featured in their own article on the front page of the shop promoting their Handmade Artists Shop and any other sites they would like to feature.

Where are we now? Well, we are currently over 2400 members of the forum and over 200 Shop members. Andrew and I have steadily increased our server size because you guys love to show off your pictures! We have continued to try to promote our members of the forum and shop as much as we can with the help of our other members through Twitter, StumbleUpon, FaceBook, Plurk, and ProjectWonderful and truly believe that our little corner of the web will continue to grow.

If you are a creative soul that loves to connect with other creative, and sometimes a bit off beat, people, join us on the Handmade Artists Forum and see if you don't find yourself lost in the sea of creativity that has assembled. Show off your goodies and drool over others talents as you connect with artisans from around the world who love to support and promote!

Knitting Envy

2011-09-01T09:54:00.000-04:00

I love to knit, but admittedly never made it past the most basic of projects such as potholders and blankets. That is why I am so envious of those talented people that can sit down and knit up a pair of socks! There is just something so comforting about a really thick, hand knitted pair of socks that this artists has made me determined to try it one day...well, maybe...or maybe I'll just buy a pair of hers!

After all, wouldn't these happy colors make any cold day seem better?

Dahlish is a member of the HandmadeArtistsForum who recently joined us on the newly relaunched HandmadeArtstistsShop which a lush shop full of hand knitted items the almost make me excited for colder weather.

While her real name is Gina, I will always think of her as Dahlish. She is a BUSY mother of 2 that lives in North Dakota and plays piano. This multi talented woman loves to spend time with her family and still finds time to pop into the forum and write for her own blog.

If you are a knitting fan, either knit yourself or just love the idea of a hand knit treasure, check out her shop.

Sometimes Haff is more than enough!

2011-08-21T16:22:00.000-04:00

If you have ever tried Polymer Clay then you know how hard it really is to do right! I started out thinking that it would be like play-do, and in some ways, I was right...my designs looked just like a kindergartner made something with school clay!

Then there are people like Haffina who make the most amazing things with clay that they have to be seen to be believed. She is a multitalented mom from Australia who somehow finds the time to make the most amazing clay beads, jewelry, and now miniatures!

Haffina is a jewelry designers dream that appreciates adding other's handmade treasures into their own creations. Everything from beads to clasps to buttons...all made from clay.

Ready to drool...er see more? Well, Haffina is easy to find as she is all over the web! You can check out her HandmadeArtistsShop page, on Artfire shop or the other or the other or the other ! I told you she was busy! To get to know more about the artist behind all this talent, you can visit her blog and see more pictures of her amazing work.

Lifetime of Handmade

2011-08-15T10:33:00.000-04:00

Teresa of Trusk4U has spent a lifetime loving DIY! She comes from a crafty family that encouraged her love of creating. She worked for a time at JoAnns and quickly discovered the bead isle! After spending countless breaks browsing and dreaming, Teresa bought a book and a few supplies and has not looked back since.

Now, from those simple book designs, Teresa has blossomed into a full blown jewelry artist that has to be seen to be believed. Moving on to more complicated bead work and eventually to wire work, Teresa has found her passion and the world gets to benefit with wonderful creations.

Teresa is a longtime supporter of the HandmadeArtistsForum and joined us on our relaunch of the HandmadeArtistsShop. Her shop is full of wonders in colors and textures, and as she adds more it will just get better!

It is one thing to sit in your studio and create works of wearable art for sale, but Teresa takes the love of handmade one step further. She opened a shop in her hometown of Mebane, NC that specializes in handmade works from local artists. Teresa loves to talk to her customers about each of her artists and how their work is special.

Ready to check out more from this wonderful lady that goes by Trusk4U? Easy, you can check out her shop on the HandmadeArtistsShop, on Etsy, her blog, and facebook. If you are interested in checking out what a truely handmade brick and morter shop is all about, check out Hollyhocks and see why Teresa is so proud of her artists.

Clean Couple Fun!

2011-08-09T18:05:00.000-04:00

There is something near and dear to my heart...watching a couple work together to create a business that works! Much like my own household, Larissa and Eric of ReefBotanicals have combined their talents to clean up the dirty bodies around the globe!

Larissa has been a long time member and supporter of the HandmadeArtistsForum and HandmadeArtistsShop as well as a tireless supporter of the DIY and handmade lifestyle. More often than not, you can find a post where she has up-cycled and re-purposed a piece for their home or is in the process of learning a new craft.

Larissa is more than a soaper; she is also a lawyer as well as an amazing face painter that I am so dying to have come to my son's birthday one year! Her designs are amazing and she is always trying out new looks to add to her impressive collection. If you like stuff like this, I would encourage you to check out her blog.

Now I know that there are a lot of soapers around, but there is something special about the care that Larissa puts into her product. Am I just saying that? No! I've been a long time user of their Purity soap and can confidently say that I have never found a product that feels so good on my face as well as cleans away my day completely (yes, including that darn waterproof mascara!).

In addition to soap, Larissa also makes scrubs, candles, bath fizzies (love the sound of this one!), lip balms, hair products and has a few specialty items that are created just for men.

Ready to see all this and more? Check out ReefBotanicals to see her full line as well as her blog to get to know the extremely talented couple behind the company. I am positive you will be as hooked as I am.

Center of Attention

2011-08-08T18:51:00.000-04:00

A lot of my work is done for brides that are planning their big days and are looking for custom work in custom colors to make their wedding day one of a kind. I love this type of order since I get to be a small part in a once in a lifetime event.

This was just such the case with a recent bride who was planning her day and had a clear idea on what she was looking for. Alex was on the hunt for a large vase to put on her guest book table in a rather large entryway to her reception. She found the pattern that she liked, just perfect in her words, but I was unable to get the frosted vase in a large enough size.

...and so the search was on. After combing all of my sources, and finding a few new ones, I was able to find a clear vase that stood a very proud 19inches tall! It was shaped like a giant champagne flute and seemed perfect, except that it was clear and not frosted.

After a lot of playing with the pattern, I was able to give the bride the piece she was after. A tall, statement vase, covered in blue and white morning glories to show off her entry table. This vase was a bit more delicate than I usually paint and I had my fears while packing it up to ship.

Now everything can not be easy, right? Of course the first vase broke in shipping...the poor bride opened the box to find shattered glass. I felt so bad! I immediately painted another vase for her and held my breath yet again as I packed it up to ship. The result? Alls well that ends well. Today I received a stunning picture of the reception entryway featuring the most gorgeous flowers and the vase.

The moral of the story? If you are willing to search and ask questions you will be able to find what you want to make your day a one of a kind event that you can remember happily.

Gems to Color the World

2011-08-01T18:04:00.000-04:00

"When I sit down to work with gemstones and metal, it quiets my mind and reminds me that in a world fraught with conflict, art can be a universal language and a bridge between cultures." Truer words were never spoken, er, written! This is one line from the profile of an amazingly talented jewelry designer that revels in color and interesting combinations.

SperanzaJewelry is a one woman show that lives and works out of Annapolis, Maryland. During the day she works for a television news agency, but at night becomes jewelry designer extraordinaire! Sounds like some sort of superhero! One of the most interesting things, besides the amazing jewelry that is, is how carefully she chose her business name. According to her bio, Speranza means hope in Italian which is definitely a feeling that comes alive in her happy designs.

Speranza works in a variety of metals and gems; basically if it is pretty and adds a bit of color to her world, it will be incorporated into her designs.

Ready to see more? Well, she is easy to find! Check out her ArtFire Shop, Etsy shop, and for a more personal look at the lady behind the gems, check out her Blog. But, be prepared to drool!

From an Early Age - AlchemyAtelier

2011-07-12T08:06:00.002-04:00

There are some people that just have to create from birth and Shannamarie is one of those people. She began as a child "sewing" doll clothes with construction paper and staples! Her mom quickly got her a plastic sewing machine that just couldn't hold up to Shannamarie's creative nature and died after only a week. The result? She was allowed, under her mom's watchful eye, to use a real machine and the rest is history!

This early encouragement led Shannamarie to grab every bit of knowledge she could about tailoring, patterning and fashion history and later to become a costume technician; what a cool job! Her focus, while always on fashion, is now geared towards jewelry and accessory design using bright materials in unusual ways

Shannamarie has taken inspiration from her travels, like her trip to Taiwan recently where she soaked up the culture and even grabbed some beads! You can read more about her trip on her blog.

Ready to see more? Check out Shannamarie's blog to see some amazing pictures from her trip as well as links to her stunning jewelry!

Sweet Somg Keepsake

2010-10-27T09:14:00.004-04:00

I love to do custom orders anytime, but some events are so much fun to have a hand in! The Liberty Oaks Chorus is a group of ladies who pour out their hearts in song. They are part of the Sweet Adelines International; basically barbershop for women; and were invited to sing this year at the international competition in Seattle Washington!

A group of these women decided to commemorate their trip and success by having custom wine glasses created to toast in the event. On the front is their 4 star logo as well as "Seattle 2010" and each glass is personalized with the members name on the back. I love the idea of creating a keepsake for these talented ladies!

Texas Talent

2010-06-21T12:07:00.004-04:00

You gotta love a creative mom! Tammy; owner, operator, designer, and all around talented lady; of TamsJewelry is one such mom. She calls Texas home along with her loving husband, two daughters, and stepson when he is around.

Tammy creates jewelry that is such a treat to look at. Some are just so simple and elegant that you could litterly wear them every day and never look out of place while others are so unique that you will definitely get noticed.Some of the most eye watering work is with seed beads. Now, I've worked with seed beads in the past and know the patience and concentration that it takes to create something beautiful. Just the strain on your eyes along should earn her a medal!

Want to see more? Of course! You can find Tammy on the HandmadeArtstistsShop, Etsy, Artfire, and read about her passions as well as her wonderful feature of other handmade artisans on her blog. Don't say I didn't warn you when you start to drool on your keyboard.

Magic Lady

2010-06-15T07:55:00.002-04:00

Every once in a while you stumble upon a lady that has taken a talent and created something like no other! I met Brenda, AKA ATouchOfGlass, on the HandmadeArtistsForum a while back and couldn't believe what she is able to do with glass and paint...so much so that I am the very proud owner of one of her ladies.

What is so special about Brenda's work? Well, many people work with fused glass and many people can paint...but how many are able to combine the two and create a fantasy world of ladies with individual personalities?

I love to check out her newest pieces and try to see the story...of course, mine might not match what she had in mind when she was created, but isn't personal interpretation half the fun of art? These are a bit different in that they are digital prints of her original work attached to a domino pendant...not just any domino, but a hand painted one!

As if her painted ladies weren't enough, Brenda has started a new line which she calls Snooks which stands for Sweet Novel Original One of a Kind Sensations! These adorable pieces combine her painted faces with found pieces resulting in glittery one of a kind pieces of wearable art!

Ready to check out more of Brenda's work for yourself? Of course you are...and I dare you not to oooh and ahhh when you are scrolling through the sites! You can find ATouchOfGlass on Etsy, ArtFire, and on the HandmadeArtistsShop! You can read more about the artist behind this amazing work on her Blog as well as check out some of the other handmade artists that she has so generously supported.

Well, why are still here? Go! Check out these beautiful ladies and create your own story for them...by the way, it has been discusses many times that her fortune teller refuses to offer up lottery numbers. Maybe she was cooked a bit too long or maybe she just hasn't found the right person? Are you it? If she reveals her secret, can you please share it with me?

Vacation Inspiration

2010-06-07T07:20:00.003-04:00

It is always amazing to me when we go on vacation that my mind is so much more open to new ideas...things that I would look at and shake my head over at home are suddenly wonderful new adventures. This phenominon is exactly how an amazing jewelry designer got her start! DreamAgainJewelry was on a holiday in Santa Cruz, California when she wandered into a bead shop. Struck by all the beautiful strands of beads she had to have some...now what? With no jewelry experience to lean on she began with simple beaded, leather cords and soon was hooked!

DreamAgainJewelry, Stephenie in real life, is a member of the HandmadeArtistsForum who grew up in a small California town surrounded by animals and a loving family. She was a self confessed spoiled child who grew to love pretty, girly things.

She is a completely self taught artist, who has worked from the relatively simple style of a beginner, to much for elaborate works of wearable art over the last 17 years. Her designs have a beautifully, romantic feel to them and are pieces that you could wear every day and never tire of them.

She also does something near and dear to my own heart...Chainmaille! While maille is an age old art, designers will usually put their own spin on their pieces. Stephenie mixes metals in a wonderful way to really bring out the beauty of the weaves.

Want to see more? Of course you do! You can find this talented artist on Etsy, twitter and on facebook as well as get to know the lady behind the jewels on her blog.

Sock and Chalk!

2010-06-01T07:24:00.003-04:00

I just adore talking to multi-talented artists. I know that some think "Jack of all trades but expert at nothing," but some of the amazing people on the HandmadeArtistsForum will prove this statement wrong! They are amazing artists in so many mediums that you wonder if they are twins (triplets, quads?).One such artist is Kazumi, a Japan based artist that is definitely one of those multi-talented types. She makes these amazing chalk drawings! Now I love to paint and doodle, but I've never tried chalk other than when I was a kid on the chalk board, and certainly never managed to come up with anything like these.

Kazuimi introduced us on the forum to these incredible wedding welcome boards that apparently are common in Japan. I know that many banquet halls put up a board outside the reception to direct guests to the right room, but I've never seen any like this. Kazumi's boards are so much more rich and personal looking...Calling all brides! You can have a wedding welcome board that has some personality to it!

Not into chalk? Ok, how about fabric? Kazumi has access to these darling fabrics which she turns into really cute little clutches, coin purses and bags. These are so much cuter than the ones you find in the store, and because they are bright, I might even be able to find it in the bottom of my black hole of a purse!

Now, everyone remembers Sock Monkeys, right? They were great to cuddle and I love the way they "flop." Kazumi has a twist on her monkeys...how about Amigurumi? Don't know what that is? Well, it is a way of crocheting in which you don't go back and forth but crochet round and round. I've tried it and it is fun...though I never came up with anything as cute as this. Calling all brides (again!) rather than a traditional cake top, how about a pair of wedding sock monkeys?

Want to know more...Kazumi has got some serious web presence. Here are some of the many places to check out...Her Etsy shop for chalk drawings, Etsy for all things sock monkey and fabric related, Socky's World (yes, the monkeys have their very own site!), Cafe Press, and Zazzle shop. Still want more, well you can read up on all the doings of this new friend on her blog (yes, some of it is in Japanese, but that really just adds to the fun!), and flickr site.

A Passion for Giving

2010-05-24T08:45:00.003-04:00

I admit it...I'm a closet drooler of anything baby related. My boys are long past the darling hats and booties; more like black and skulls now; but I still will wander aimlessly through the rows of tiny outfits and pick up the little mini shoes in the department stores. This secret admiration for all things baby is the reason I am introducing you to Sandi; a woman with a passion for all things tiny from Utah and proud owner of iKnitQuiltSew on Etsy.

I met Sandi when she joined us on the HandmadeArtistsForum not long ago and fell in love with her old fashioned style of baby hats, blankets and dolls. She states in her profile that she was taught many years ago to knit using her grandmothers patterns...which came from her mother! Guess you can say they have stood the test of time? Her work is all individually created, so you will not find hundreds of items in her shop; instead, you will find work that is created stitch by stitch with love and caring.

Not into knit? Ok, what about dolls? Remember rag dolls? I had some and they were the best for cuddling and squishing!

No dolls? Well, what about bears? I mean seriously...who can resist a teddy face especially one that is handmade!

Not done yet! Quilting is a passion that Sandi taught herself using a book...woman after my own heart. Sweet crib quilts that would look amazing on a nursery wall as padded artwork!

Now, I know that you are dying to check out this talented lady for yourself. You can find her on Etsy or check out her blog and read up on her passions as well as her love of all things handmade. After all, isn't that half the fun of buying handmade? Getting to know the artist behind the art?

Invisible Mother

2010-05-21T16:40:00.005-04:00

I normally hate to be forwarded the mass emails full of corny jokes or info that does not apply to me. I cringe at the long list of email addresses that I don't recognize or those that only email me their junk mail...this one, however, is very different. I was originally written by Mary Lynn Plaisance and can be found here http://www.authorsden.com/categories/story_top.asp?id=37319&catid=76 . After having a very rough day with my kids, it really touched a chord with me and I just had to share.

Invisible Mother.....

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'

Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible.. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more! Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this??

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'

Some days I'm a crystal ball; 'Where's my other sock?, Where's my phone?, What's for dinner?'

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history, music and literature but now, they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone!?

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . She had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when she turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription:'With admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devoured - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: 1) No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. 2) These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. 3) They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. 4) The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A story of legend in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, No one will ever see it And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does.

No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3 hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, he'd say, 'You're gonna love it there...'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.

Great Job, MOM!

More than just Socks!

2010-05-19T06:51:00.003-04:00

Ok, I admit it, I never thought much about socks! I buy basic socks, love the "new" feel of them, put them on my feet and forget about them...until now! I would like to introduce you to a lady that has taken socks and made me think twice. Twiddletoes asks you "Do you tie random bands of fabric across your head, glance furtively around, and slide across the floors when you're home alone? Do you give a fierce howl and karate chop household pests before disposal? Well, you're in the right place, and you're not alone!" Has she been peaking in my window?

Twiddletoes began about 6 years ago by Stacy, a crafty lady in Atlanta, Georgia, that was tired of watching her husband try to jam his feet into flip flops wearing regular socks! Not being happy with the designs she was finding, she modified various patterns to create her own pattern. She uses luxury fibers that just sound so lush and is now adding a line of vegan alternatives in order to service a new line of customers. I would have never known about these amazing socks except that Stacy joined us as a handmade supporter on the HandmadeArtistsForum and has jumped in with both feet...sorry, couldn't resist!

Got you thinking? Well, keep in mind that Stacy does more than just socks with toes, she also has a luxury line of traditional socks in rich colors that I am dying to try! Want to find out more? You can find Twiddletoes on Etsy, 1000Markets and check out her blog and get to know the artist behind these lush footies!

Better Late than Never!

2010-05-14T10:15:00.007-04:00

Can you believe it? After years of work, tears, frustration who knows how many pounds of paper and ink, I finally graduated from college! The ceremony was wonderful but long! My poor family sat outside from 7am until 2pm with 22,000 other proud family members just to see me make my walk. Now what do I do? Back to making things and craft shows, which is where my main passion will always be. In the mean time, here is a few shots of my big day.

Thanks Andrew, for all the support and love and patience for the past few years!

What is in the Australian Water?

2010-05-11T07:55:00.002-04:00

Picture yourself as an Australian mom of 5, Guildmaster for the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild, a member of the Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild, The ArtFire Cafemom Team, Australians on Fire Guild and the We Love ArtFire Guild and a columnist for the Craft Techniques Department of handmadenews.org, administrator of Alundra's Conundrum, Moderator on the Han dmade Artists Forum and a member of BeadingForum.com.au. Tired yet? I am!Jennifer, better known as Haffina is such a multitalented lady; in addition to all those groups she is a chainmailler that works in traditional sizes as well as micromaille (can you say tiny!). She is also a clay artist that has mastered the art of creating clay pieces that look like glass! Not enough for you? Well, she is a jewelry artist that works with beadweaving and gemstones and she knits! I know she is human and has to sleep some time, I just haven't figured out when...

Now, I don't want to you to take my word for it...so run off and check out some of Haffina's various shops! You can find her on ArtFire here or here, Etsy and Zibbet as well as read her Blog.

NaLa - Talent and Passion

2010-05-03T07:48:00.003-04:00

I know that there are many talented jewelry designers out there on the web, but few have captured my heart like NaLa! She lives in Chicago and has a passion for creating jewelry that reflects her customers own personal style. She is always willing to stretch herself in order to make that special piece for her customers.

NaLa's pieces are simple upon first glance, but look closer! Her workmanship is perfection and each piece has a little something that makes it stand out, whether it is a surprising color or the way the piece is presented.

NaLa is a member of the HandmadeArtistsForum and a firm supporter of all things handmade. She actively promotes other artists on her blog and twitter, getting the word out that handmade is special!

Now that I have you drooling, head over to her Etsy shop and drool over her amazing pieces.

Make Your Wedding Your Own!

2010-04-29T10:03:00.011-04:00

So you found the perfect dress, shoes, veil, and flowers. Now, how about adding a bit of fun and personality to your day?

I've been really busy working with brides who want to add just a touch of fun to their day through their toasting glasses. Now, you can buy glasses anywhere, right? You can even get some stock engraving done, wait forever, and have your glasses look exactly like your sisters did...or you can get a set of custom glasses that show your guests what is wonderful about you!

Any of my glassware can be customized to suit you and your day...trust me, no request is too off the wall! In fact, the more unique, the more fun they are to make and show off! Got you thinking?

Well, how about showing your wild side? This bride was married in Vegas by Elvis in a leopard outfit. Not traditional, but certainly showed her personality!

This bride was not interested in traditional champagne flutes...so what do you do? Beer mugs!

Guess what? There is nothing wrong with color! These brides were looking for something bright and fun that will really stand out on their table and their pictures!

Pieces of the Past

2010-04-20T07:38:00.002-04:00

Now I don't know about you, but if i drop a plate and it breaks into a thousand sharp shards I generally head for a broom, sweep it up and into the trash it goes...not so with this amazing artist! Christine of memoriesinmosaics has spent years turning those broken pieces and small treasure finds into works of art! She says that she loves the idea of taking someones treasured china pieces and getting them out of the cupboard and creating visual art! I love this idea! Who looks at Grandma's china any day other than Thanksgiving? Now you can see it all year long!

Christine doesn't just work with china in her Florida studio, but always likes to add a bit of "bling" to her pieces. she adds tiny glass marbles or even pieces of jewelry to her art. This little touch of surprise is just one of the things that makes her work special.

Thinking to yourself (I can hear you!), what is the big deal? I can glue down some pits of stuff all by myself. Oh really? Check out this talented artists explanation of her process and see that it is a bit more than just gluing some stuff down. "The first step is to design the mosaic and cut the base from plywood. I then begin the design process and cut away at each tile so that it fits into place. Once the entire design is completed I glue each piece with Weldbond and let dry overnight. The next step is to grout and let dry overnight again. During the first few hours I spray it with water to keep the grout from cracking. Once the piece is dry I take a toothpick and go around each and every tile, gem, shell, etc. to be sure it is residue free and and has a clean line. The final process is to spray with a quality grout sealer and buff out the tiles."
Now you could do this yourself...but will you? If you are anything like me, those wonderful china pieces will continue to sit in your cabinet for many years to come...never becoming visual art because you don't have time!

Now, if you want to see more about this fabulous artist you can check out her Etsy shop and her blog. Both are full of wonderful images of her latest projects as well as some personal touches to let you see the artist behind the piece.

HAFteam Summer Challenge

2010-04-09T07:26:00.005-04:00

It is that time again! The Etsy HAFteam, based on the HandmadeArtstistsForum has put together an amazing group of entries for the Spring Challenge! The theme this time is "Nature Calls" and we got a great group of interpretations. Head on over to the team blog and cast your vote! The winner of the challenge gets top billing advertising for their shop on the team blog as well as the forum.
Why should you vote? What do you care? Well, if you vote and leave us a comment you will be entered into the drawing to win an amazing pair of earrings generously donated by Trusk4U!

Scenting the World with Style!

2010-04-05T09:06:00.002-04:00

There is nothing as soothing as a really good candle at the end of the day! Jen of Jennuinecandles is ready to provide the perfect candle for you! She, by day, is an occupational therapist that works with the older population to help them maximize their quality of life. I am just so thankful that there are people like this out there giving respect to the older population so that they may life full and happy lives!

After her day job, Jen heads home and creates! She focuses on palm candles, which I didn't know much about but sound amazing. Not only do the scents sound heavenly, but the designs are such that they are more than just candles, they become little works of art on their own! These little melts are baby powder scented! Now to some this brings up nightmares, to others there is no cleaner scent.
Need another example? Well, picture a romantic night at home...roses, wine, music...why not add that same romance to your candle? I mean, come on, it is called Love Spell! What more to you need?

Need more? Check out Jen's Etsy shop for an eyeful of artful candles in lush scents! Still want more? Head over to her blog and get some insight into the woman behind the wax.

Creative Minds

2010-03-22T07:19:00.003-04:00

I love to sit for a time and scroll through people's shops. Their fresh ideas help to jumpstart my creativity! One such shop is a hand made artist who makes simply elegant designs that can be dressed up or down!

Creative Minds is a Vermont based business who's owner, Sara Wolfson, is a valued member of the HandmadeArtistsForum. Her goal is is to make a business out of her creativity and eventually open a brick and mortar shop complete with handmade creations and classes for adults and children.

Sara works with everything from glass beads and gemstones to handmade fimo creations. She also works with paper beads...remember those? These updated versions are a far cry from those clumpy, lumpy ones we used to make as kids!

Her website is full of jewelry for every part of you and her blog shows her love of handmade! Check her out and show her some love!

Treasure from Trusk4U

2010-03-15T08:50:00.002-04:00

Some people are just born to create! Teresa is just such an artist. She is the heart and creativity behind Trusk4U in addition to being happily married and the mother of two grown children and to furry ones! Her work has included many materials, but her heart lies in jewelry...woman after my own heart! She has turned her love into an obsession; everything from picking the perfect stone to creating an imaginative frame of wire.

Teresa is also a wonderful blogger! She fills her pages with a unique combination of personal information, such as some amazing pictures of an Ireland trip in honor of St. Patrick's Day, as well as features of some really talented handmade artists. Her support of handmade extends to being an active member of the HandmadeArtistsForum where she is always ready with an encouraging word for other members.

Now, take a few seconds and check out Trusk4U on Etsy as well as on her blog and feel free to drool over her imaginative creations for yourself.

Sunshine Award!

2010-03-12T09:53:00.005-05:00

I am happy and proud to say that my blog has been given the Sunshine Blog Award! I must thank T.Rusk4u for passing this on to me. If you haven't visited her blog, you should! It's wonderful to say the least!

The conditions when accepting this award:

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

* Pass the award onto 12 bloggers.

* Link the nominees within your post.

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

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

I'd like to nominate the following blogs:

AmongtheRuins
Anagramforink
ArtshusbyViolet
DreamRiverDesigns
GravelRoadJewelry
HaffinaCreations
KitzbitzArtGlass
JewelryByNaLa
MommyPleaseDontbeSick
Mooaanysays
TotallyUniqueTreasures
TuscanRoadDesigns

Couple of Talents

2010-03-08T07:51:00.003-05:00

I love it when I hear of a husband and wife team that creates together and this team does it with flair. PleasantPeasantry is a multitalented couple that currently focuses on ceramics and macrame; though in the past they have played with such arts as woodwork, ceramics, sketching, sewing, painting, and graphic arts, paper making, macrame, beadwork, shrink plastic, web design, wood burning, book binding, sewing, sketching, and writing. Boy, tired yet? They are active members on the HandmadeArtistsForum, offering support and encouragement to crafters around the world.
Their blog is full of fun pictures and posts showing not only the amazing work in their Etsy shop, but also some of their experiments in progress. The latest post features an adventure in book binding! Stop by and show them your appreciation for their crafty living.

Out with the Old? Remade into New!

2010-03-04T06:16:00.014-05:00

Once I finished school I was left with a ton of books from various literature classes. Now I love books, but I am being buried under the stacks of school books that, though some of them were loved, I will not be reading again. The bookstore will only give you pennies to sell them back and I don't have anyone that is interested in reading them...so what to do! Make ART!

I took a few of my books and cut them apart and began designing small art pieces around the stories. It took quite a bit of trial and error to get the looks that I wanted, but the results were worth it. I put them into small (5x7) shadow boxes that allowed the designs to pop. I am thrilled with the results!

I have plans for a few more of my books in the future so stay tuned to see what I come up with.

Wearable Wood!

2010-03-02T07:43:00.002-05:00

Ok, we all know that I am a sucker for pretty, shiny things...I may be part crow because I can be cruising along through my day and something shiny catches my eye and all of a sudden there is nothing more important than checking it out! Recently, though, I have found something new that catches my eye...Wood!

Janelle has been an amazing member of the HandmadeArtistsForum almost from the beginning and is a huge supporter of handmade. She loves to work with beads and crystals, but recently found a new love for working with exotic woods...and the results are amazing! She begins with raw wood with lush names like Purpleheart, Tulipwood rosewood, and Kingswood rosewood. She cuts and shapes them into interesting shapes and even bangle bracelets and then sands and finishes them until they shine! I'm not kidding! These treasures almost seem to glow from within!

Got you drooling yet? Her work can be seen, and purchased, through her Etsy shop or her brand new HandmadeArtistsShop. If you want to delve a bit deeper into her other intersts, check out her blog where Jan features not only her own work, but the work of other hand made artists.

Love Turned Obsession

2010-02-22T07:20:00.003-05:00

I can't imagine anything better than to find something that you absolutely love...your passion! CJ Grand is one such lucky person who managed to find something she loves to do and has built a business on her passion. Her journey began as a scifi costumer and which turned into a love of Steampunk! What is steampunk? Well, it is an art form that combines the romance and softness of Victorian Romance with the metal edge of the Industrial Revolution...think lace and music with gears and cogs.

There are a lot of people that make Steampunk sculptures and jewelry, but to do it well with the proper balance of hard and soft in jewelry is a gift that TheGrandDesign has! Her Etsy shop is full of beautiful pieces that take you to another time. She uses many found and reclaimed pieces in her work and combines them into a Steampunk style is that is so wearable.

Now, more than just being a fabulous artist; CJGrand is also a huge supporter of the handmade movement! She is an active member on the HandmadeArtistsForum and a frequent contributer to the Daily Steampunk thread. Her blog is full of beautiful pictures and articles showing off the work of other artists that she finds around the web. Check out her work and show her blog some love and fall in love with Steampunk!

When did Manners Die?

2010-02-19T08:01:00.003-05:00

Common courtesy isn’t so common anymore and it makes me so sad. I had to run a bunch of errands, not my favorite thing to do on my day off by the way, but sometimes things just have to be done. Maybe I was just ultra sensitive today, but I don’t think so. I believe that people have just gotten more rude than they were in the past.

First stop is to Target to grab a couple of silly things for my family. Right away I should have known to turn around. The parking lot was fairly full and thanks to the recent dump of snow, many of the spots were unparkable. I pulled into a spot and another car pulled in next to me…Bang!...their door opens right into mine. Not a big deal really. I understand that things happen, but what got me was that they just got out and began walking towards the store like I wasn’t even standing there. I am not looking for some big drama or anything, but an “I’m sorry” would go a long way.

In the store now and they are taking out the Valentines items and putting up gardening and Easter so some of the isles are filled with carts full of merchandise to be put out. No big deal, they have a job to do. As I am coming out of one such isle a woman on her cell phone runs right into me. I quickly apologized, though I really didn’t do anything, and all I got in return was a glare that would raise the dead…and back to her conversation. Deep breath…don’t let silly things get to me…..

Up at the register I place my things on the belt and say “Good morning” to the cashier. No reply, just a scowl. As she is scanning my merchandise she gets to a print cartridge that is locked in one of those plastic cases. She heaves a big sigh, like I asked her for a kidney, and announces to the woman behind me that she has to call someone to take the lock box off so it will be a while. Rather than continue scanning, she stands there tapping her foot and holding the print cartridge waiting for the magic key. Finally it arrives and my cartridge is free from its prison. Now, before someone jumps in telling me maybe they were having a bad day or their fish just died; I understand having a bad day but it seems to me that there are so many people that work retail jobs that are just miserable. I’ve worked with the public and understand that it can be rough, but to look like you are in front of a firing squad when a customer says hello…well…get over it!

Bottom line, all I wanted to do was go home. Why this rant? Well, I was raised by an old fashioned woman that demanded politeness from me….please, thank you, excuse me we not reserved for company but were expected at all times. Now that I am raising my own children, I expect no less from them. My oldest son is great for holding doors at the store or picking up a dropped object for a stranger. He allows adults to pass him in the isle and says thank you to the cashier. It doesn’t take any thought from him; it is just the way I expect him to be. Maybe a few others could take a cue from a child and the world would be a much more pleasant place to live.

It's a Soapy Party!

2010-02-16T13:08:00.003-05:00

I never thought much about soap until I started meeting some of the amazing people that make the stuff themselves. Now, I admit, thanks to my "I can do it myself" attitude I did a fair amount of research into soap-making thinking "If they can do it, so can I." Let me tell you, it didn't take long for me to realize that to really do it right is a time consuming talent that I just don't want to mess with. So, what does one do when they find they can't do it themselves....buy it from the best!

Larissa and Eric are and amazing pair that takes pride in what they do...and it shows! I met Larissa on the HandmadeArtistsForum and, being the shop-a-holic that I am, had to try some of her stuff. I was instantly hooked, and yes, I've gone back for more. She was nice enough to send us a bar of shaving soap that has even hooked my husband! You can visit their blog and get some insight into the pair behind the soap and their site to try some of this soapy heaven for yourself!

Larissa and Eric are an amazing husband and wife team of soap makers that run Reef Botanicals and work to create the most luscious soap around. On top of that, they also make fizzy bath bars, sugar scrubs and lip balms...everything you could want from one place!

Haffina-Supermom, Artist, and All Around Amazing Woman

2010-02-08T08:08:00.002-05:00

The next time I am sitting here wondering how in the world I will get it all done; I'm going to think of Haffina! This wonder-woman mom to 5 (yes, you read it right-5!) is an Aussie artist with amazingly diverse talents! She is a beader, chainmailler, polymer clay artist as well as guildmaster for the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild, a member of the Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild, The ArtFire Cafemom Team, Australians on Fire Guild and the We Love ArtFire Guild and a columnist for the Craft Techniques Department of handmadenews.org and administrator of Alundra's Conundrum, and Moderator on the Handmade Artists Forum . Tired yet???

Want to learn more about this super-mom/artist in so many mediums? Her blog is a wealth of information as well as a peak into her favorite works of other artists. Haffina's Artfire shop, is a treasure trove of handmade jewelry. Her other Artfire shop is a crafters heaven, full of pretty beads, clasps, and pendants that will had a one of a kind sparkle to any piece. Haffina also, as if those weren't enough, runs an Etsy shop full of treasures.

I am sure you are already drooling over her shops and now is the time to check them out because it is Haffina's birthday! She is offering 20% to 40% off many of her creations! Click on over and take advantage of this offer and support an amazing woman, artist, and friend.

Handmade Artists Shop!

2010-01-28T10:18:00.002-05:00

Finally! A place that really means it when we say all things handmade! The HandmadeArtistsShop is up and running and ready to showcase your creations to those that appreciate handmade. HAF allows amazing control for the artist to set up and market themselves in a way that is best for them. Multiple images and real time/flat rate shipping options for your shop as well as inventory and SEO control. You can have unlimited inventory for a flat rate of $5.00 per month with no sales commission or listing fees. HAF is not interested in taking over your shop, instead we want you to manage your own site. If you do have questions, and who doesn't, the Shop is connected to a very active HandmadeArtistsForum full of people willing to walk you through. Pop on in anytime and check us out!

Kitzbitz Art Glass

2010-01-26T10:36:00.004-05:00

Glass working has always been fascinating to me! The idea of taking glass bits, pieces and rods and creating beautiful, usable pieces of art is a talent that I don't possess and wouldn't even know where to begin. Jolene of Kitzbitz Art Glass is one of these talented people! She is a UK based artist and supporting member of the HandmadeArtistsForum as well as the HAFteam. She not only creates beautiful glass beads but also puts together unique pieces of jewelry. In her Etsy shop you will find beads, jewelry and even glass for us craft addicted people that want to try glasswork out for ourselves. Jolene's blog features her beautiful creations as wll as links to other places on the web that you can oooohhhh and aaaahhhh and drool over her talent.

Heather's Haven - A Talent for Creating a Beautiful World

2010-01-11T11:16:00.004-05:00

The HAF group has begun a blog ring in order to show off the incredible talent of our forum members! This weeks victim, ummm feature artist, is Heather of Heather's Haven ! Heather has a way turning the tiniest beads into incredible art both through jewelry and art dolls that have to be seen to believe! She shows off her talent in her Etsy shop as well as on her blog. Heather is mom to 6 kids...yup, 6!...and still finds time to create amazing works of art. Check out this super-woman and prepare to drool over her creations.

2010-01-04T13:20:00.003-05:00

Simple can be so elegant! SeedlingsJewelry proves this point perfectly. Sharon uses natural materials to create jewelry that is eye-catching and easy to wear. She takes her belief in natural to another level by donating twenty percent of every purchase to Heifer International. Now, I had never heard of this group, but was thrilled at their mission statement which reads "A world of communities living together in peace and equitably sharing the resources of a healthy planet."

This talented artist has managed to create stunning pieces while holding on to her heart felt beliefs about the world. Her work reflects her love of the natural and her charitable contribution shows her willingness to put her money where her heart is.

Check out Seedlings on her blog to learn more about this amazing talent where Sharon is currently running a series on the last year in review in which she shares some of her hard learned secrets to selling success.

Sterling and Glass!

2009-08-24T14:13:00.006-04:00

You would not believe that talented lady that I met through the HandmadeArtistsForum! She is a UK based glass artist that creates absolutely unique designs. I had to have one of her roses to combine with chainmaille and the results are amazing. This black rose was hand formed by Sabine, who you can find at Etsy as well as her website. She shipped this treasure out quickly and when I opened the box it took my breath away!

I hand formed and wired to sterling silver leaves for the rose and then attached it to a sterling silver Persian chainmaille chain. This piece is meant to be worn high on the chest and looks amazing with an open necked shirt or dress.

I have another bead of Sabine's that I can't wait to get started with. This one is totally different, but just as stunning...stay tuned for the completion of that project

Sunflower Wedding!

2009-07-28T09:32:00.002-04:00

I love color and get so excited when I get asked to create for a bright and cheerful wedding! These custom toasting glasses were created for a darling bride with an obvious love of color. Bright and cheerful sunflowers grace her toasting glasses engraved with her and her beloved names and wedding date. With such a happy start I'm sure their day will be beautiful.

Wearable Cake?

2009-07-24T07:26:00.002-04:00

Ok, not really cake, but the decoration on this amazing Colombine Mask looks like icing on a cake! Sparksart is a multi-talented artist that works in a variety of mediums from jewelry to clay. It can be hard to find someone that is actually doing something different from everyone else on the block-but boy do these qualify!

This mask is created using air dry clay and is second in her line of "Cake Icing" collection. She artfully piped on "icing" that makes it yummy enough to eat.

Check out Sparksart on Etsy and prepare to stand in amazement.

A New Way to See the World

2009-07-23T14:52:00.002-04:00

I am in love...with a painting! Sunrise in Eden by hjmart is just amazing to me. Looks like the tree has fought the long fight and come out prouder for it.

Russian born and now a California resident; she has developed a pour technique that just brings her work to life.

Also in her Etsy shop are her newest product-little pendants of her paintings! Mini, wearable art!
Check out hjmart and see for yourself.

Etsy Treasury Treasure Hunt!

2009-07-18T19:00:00.003-04:00

Are you ready for a treasure hunt?

The recently formed The Handmade Artists Forum. is amazingly supportive and full of talented artists. The members that have an Etsy shop have recently banned together to create the HAFteam. This group of amazing talents decided to have a little fun with a Treasure Hunt Treasury!

Follow the clues in our Treasury and you could win a beaded bookmark and phone charm from Suzies Armoire

Here's the Treasure Hunt

Start at the Crazy Moon Pendant and see where you end up! Then send a convo to Handmadeartistsforum.etsy.com with the ID# for the item that contains the clue that led you to the end of the hunt. Everyone who finds the correct ID# gets entered in a drawing to win the prize!!

Nail Polish?

2009-07-14T12:52:00.003-04:00

You would NEVER guess it, but this treasure is made with nail polish! I love the fact that someone took something I love and made it into jewelry. Ginger Kitty Designs sells her marvelouse creations on Etsy. I have no idea how she does it, but what amazing results!

Bead Weavers are Amazing

2009-07-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

Bead weavers always amaze me! What you can do with a pile of little seed beads and turn it into a work of art.

This incredible piece was created by Linda, owner and creator of BeadsForever and is featured in her Etsy shop. It is called Two Sahll Become One Wedding Bracelet and I can just imagine how special any bride would feel on her wedding day with this treasure on her arm!

Check out her shop and show her some love!

HAF Member Won a Challenge!

2009-07-11T10:06:00.003-04:00

One of our HAF members has the most talented fingers I think I've ever seen! She can make wire do things that my fingers only dream of doing. To top it off, she is always willing to jump in and help and encourage others. Gravel Road Jewelry entered one of her fantastic pieces in the Summer Solstice June Challenge and won! Check out her Blog to see more of her fabulous creations.

If you are interested in connecting with artist like Gravel Road and show off your talents and pretties; join us over at the Handmade Artists Forum!

Strazz-UpCycled Art Like No Other

2009-07-10T12:54:00.003-04:00

You have got to check out this Etsy shop! Strazz takes unwanted street trash and upcycles it into really cool art! Strazz hails from Australia and obviously loves the color and energy of the street. Definately not your mothers journals.

Newly Added Sea Glass Jewelry!

2009-07-08T14:10:00.006-04:00

I have finally begun adding products to my Sea Glass Jewelry Page!

What is sea glass/beach glass? Glad you asked. Sea glass began its humble life as trash dumped into our oceans. Before the days of the EPA, this unwanted glass was bashed and broken by the waves and sand; slowly being softened and frosted by sea water until it was washed up on our beached. Sea glass collectors now comb the beaches in search of these little treasures. Each piece is absolutely one of a kind!

I've taken my collection of sea treasure and used sterling silver wire to create one of a kind jewelry. No two pieces are ever alike so you will always have a one of a kind piece of wearable art.

I am busily adding my pendants to MakinTheBestOfIt and will soon begin adding my treasure trove of sea glass earrings. If you see something you like, grab it quick because when it is gone it is gone forever.

Handmade Artits Forum

2009-07-07T09:53:00.002-04:00

I admit it, I've let this blog just sit and do nothing for long enough. Life got in the way and I was hanging on by my fingernails for a while. I am finally a bit more organized and have a lot of things to share!

First off...we have a new forum for any artsy crafty types out there that want to connect with other artsy crafty types of people. The Handmade Artists Forum has been up and running for a few months and has attracted over 400 members ready to show off their creations, critique, chat, give advice, and generally just have fun with like minded people from around the world!

What do we have? Let's see...the forum itself, an Etsy street team entitled HAFteam for those with Etsy shops, a Flickr group, a Facebook page, a Twitter account, and a blog. I'm sure that there is more, but it is early and I'm not thinking straight yet.

If you are interested in connecting with us...hop on over and check us out!

Linked to the Sea Contest!!

2008-09-10T06:42:00.003-04:00

The Chainmaillers Guild is sponsering a contest complete with prizes for voting! Head over to http://chainmaillersguild.blogspot.com/2008/09/linked-to-sea-vote-for-your-favorite.html and check all the amazing chainmaille entries as well as the prizes! The theme is "Linked to the Sea" and there were no rules on design. A few people came up with some amazing pieces.

Chainmaille Earring Swap

2008-09-05T17:14:00.003-04:00

So I decided to join in a much more fun type of "chain letter" with a wonderful group of maillers. Basically it works like any other chain letter, but with a prize! The first person sent out two pairs of earrings to the next. That person took a pair out and put a new pair in before sending it on to the next person. I ended up with the cutest maille earrings that are nothing like I would have made for myself. Check out http://liles.jill.googlepages.com/earringswap to see what has been going around!!

Beaded ACEO

2008-08-26T09:02:00.005-04:00

I really love ACEO cards! My collection is getting insanely large. My idea was to create an ACEO that was different from everyone else's and this is the result!

I used peyote beading to make a dragon ACEO card! It measures the required 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 and is mounted on stiff card stock so it isn't flopping around. I'm pretty proud if I do say so myself.

I have plans for more of these, add this to the long list of what I want to create and will keep you posted as they are created. Any theme ideas would be great...