Meet: GossamerWings Studios

Happy Tuesday, INCrowdteam blog readers! Today, we get two-for-the-price-of-one! Nina Newton runs two different Etsy shops: one refurbishes vintage goodies while the other is an up-and-coming shop that will feature gifts for babies. Read on to learn more!

Name: Nina Newton

City of residence: Columbia City, IN

Shop name: GossamerWings Studio and mamaslittletreasure

Is there any meaning behind the name of your shop? Gossamer Wings Studio was inspired by the idea of bringing new life to old or vintage items. This shop is filled with vintage and hand-embellished garments, shoes and accessories. I love to work with vintage, especially when I can refashion an item through hand-embellishment, having been a thrift shopper all of my life.

My other shop, mamaslittletreasure, was inspired by our two beautiful daughters who were adopted from China, Gracie and Annie. I started out designing and creating boutique children's clothing and selling my designs online. When that became too overwhelming and time-consuming, I started writing my designs up in eBook patterns, which are sold online at www.youcanmakethis.com. I also have craft projects, hand-crafted journals, totebags, pincushions and a few other home decor items in the mamaslittletreasure shop.

What’s your real-world job? Before we brought the girls home, I taught at a community college. I most recently worked for about a year and a half at a bank, but my heart is really here at home with my family and my creative projects. So, now I am working full-time from home, building my online business.

How did you learn your Etsy craft? As a life-long seamstress, quilter, designer and fiber artist, I am completely self-taught and continue to try new ideas. If they turn out beautiful, that's great! If my latest idea doesn't become what I envisioned, I move on to the the next idea in my head, and that keeps me pretty busy.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? My creative inspiration comes from many places. We live out in the country, by a lake, so my surroundings are important in my ability to visualize my ideas. I am also greatly inspired by my thrift shopping adventures where I find vintage buttons, jewelry, gorgeous fabric and classic vintage garments, shoes and accessories that are just waiting to be brought back to life with a little TLC.

What are your five favorite shops on Etsy?

1. I absolutely LOVE audryandgrace! The designs and artistry of the garments in this shop are amazing!
2. pink purse is so dramatic and romantic!
3. Pamela at the delightfuldesigner is great! I buy lots of my lace from her for my embellishment projects.
4. Jeanette from jeanettejed is one of the most generous and thoughtful people I have ever met!
5. The handcrafted cards in Lamar's shop lamarlynch are gorgeous.

Which three of your own items for sale are your favorite? Why do you like them so much?

1. It is always so much fun to embellish shoes. I never know what's going to happen! (at top of post)
2. I really enjoy making my crazy patch journals, and I have sold several as custom orders. (middle photo)
3. And my hand-embellished corsets and bustiers always keep me guessing! (at right)

What's the best compliment you've received from a buyer? The best compliments are when I know that the customer absolutely loves the item he or she has purchased from my shop. I've had a couple of brides who were delighted with the hand-embellished shoes from my shop, as well as a bride from Ireland who purchased a vintage golden handbag for her wedding and was delighted. And then the bride who purchased a hand-embellished nighty from my shop for her honeymoon -- she commented that the lacey nighty was just perfect.

Where else can we find you on the Internet? I have a blog and a Facebook fan page. My Twitter name is mamastreasures. I also have my own Web site, which is in the process of being completely updated.

Do you know of an INCrowdteam member you'd like to see featured in this blog? Convo Jaclyn1423 to nominate a shop!

Meet: Beach Flower Designs

Hello! This week, we meet Beach Flower Designs, an Etsy shop full of bright and beautiful jewelry. She writes about her favorite items in her own shop, how much fun it is to share a love of making jewelry with her best friend and some of her other favorites on Etsy.

Name: Allison Shelhamer

City of residence: Plainfield, a smallish, quiet town just west of Indianapolis.

Is there any meaning behind the name of your shop? It's actually a play on my last name and my best friend's last name -- "beach" comes from "shel" and "flower" comes from "rose." I feel incredibly lucky that my best friend shares my love for beads, and we are able to spend a lot of time together creating our jewelry. She has an Etsy shop, too, almostsunday.

Tell me about the types of items for sale at your Etsy shop. I make bracelets, necklaces and earrings. I'm a very big fan of Swarovski crystals and pearls, as you can tell from my work. I've recently discovered gemstones and love labradorite and pyrite. I love the look of wire-wrapped faceted gemstones. I also love antique brass and sterling silver.

What's your real-world job? First and foremost, I am a wife and mother. That is the most important job in the world, to me. I also work in marketing for a local insurance agent.

How did you learn your Etsy craft? I am mostly self-taught. When my daughter was born, a friend of mine made me a mother's bracelet with her name &andbirthstones. I loved it so much, I went out and bought as many jewelry supplies that I could find, and the rest is history!

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Etsy, of course! Being surrounded by so many talented artists really makes me strive to be the best I can be. I love what I do and am inspired learn new techniques and to improve on techniques I already know.

Which three of your own items for sale are your favorite? Why do you like them so much?

1. Gumdrop Necklace -- The handblown glass beads I used in this necklace are so colorful and fun! I really think that it's a unique piece of jewelry that is suitable for just about everyone. (at top of blog post)
2. Watercolors Bracelet -- This is actually one of my favorite bracelets of all time. I have one for myself and wear it all the time! The color of the crystals and pearls comliment each other perfectly. (second photo in post)
3. Cayenne Pepper Earrings -- I love the way the color changes in the Swarovski crystal baroque pendants. I think they look beautiful with the antique brass wire-wrapping. (below)

What are your five favorite shops on Etsy?

1. almostsunday -- My best friend's shop, of course.
2. dennisanderson -- His Satsuma whipped soap is to die for!
3. allysonhill -- I love her auto trash bags!
4. LaurenAlexander -- She has the cutest prints!
5. KBExquisites -- I love her coloring wallets. My daughter has one, and she takes it wherever she goes. I bought four of them as Christmas gifts!

What's the best compliment you've received from a buyer? By far, return business. To me, someone choosing to return to my shop and purchase another item is the highest compliment you can receive. I am also flattered to have made a friend's bridal jewelry.

Where else can we find you on the Internet? I do have a Facebook and a blog that I never update. I need to be better about that!

Are you an INCrowdteam member who'd like to have your shop featured in this blog? If so, just convo Jaclyn1423, and I'll get you a list of questions!

Meet: trolltracks

This week, we meet Dolores Marple, of Versailles and of Trolltracks. She writes, "I have so many ideas and fun things to do that I will never get tired of creating! Right now I have started making tutorials. My husband helps put my photos and instructions together. I have a passion for what I do and for Etsy!!"

Read on for more!

Name: Dolores Marple

City of residence: Versailles, IN

What's the origin of your shop's name? I made up a story about my little dog sniffing out trolls in the woods near my home, so she follows "trolltracks"!

Tell me about the items for sale in your Etsy shop: They're some of the residents of Hob Knobby Hollow --trolls of the Fuzzy Butz and Nakey Butz tribes, fairies, dragons and woodland creatures of all sorts.

How did you learn your craft? I was a wood sculptor before polymer clay was invented. I used to make realistic wildlife -- animals and birds -- but when the new polymer clays were invented, I gave up my messy woodcarving hobby. I read books and experiment with all types of clays and products to try to create my fantasy world.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Walking in the woods daily with my dog is the fuel that keeps me thinking about the creatures there.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? Etsy is my favorite place because I feel at home there. I have tried every other selling venue I could come up with and have now come to use Etsy almost exclusively. Etsy is where my items sell so it must be where they belong!

What are your favorite items in your shop?

• Nakey Butz troll (at top)
• Fuzzy Butz troll and friend (in middle)
• Nutterly a squirrel (at bottom)

How would you define "success" in terms of your Etsy shop? I feel that my shop is a success because I make what I like and find that people like them, too! I would love to make enough money to quit my day job, and I hope that will happen one day, but I do feel like a winner just based on the great comments from my wonderful customers.

What's the coolest compliment you've gotten from an Etsy buyer? The thoughtful and inspiring comments from my customers is really what keeps me going. I cannot pick from them.

Do you sell elsewhere, either online or in stores? I was selling elsewhere, but I'm pretty much all Etsy now. I may try to sell in stores if I can make enough inventory.

Where else can we find you online? I have a Twitter page but don't post too often there. I Facebook, too, where I mostly play games. I use Flickr and my blog where I tell stories with my trolls.

If you're a member of the INCrowdteam and would like to be featured in this blog Q&A, contact me at Jaclyn1423.

Holiday Hoopla

Megan from SpiceofLifeDesigns (www.spiceoflifedesigns.etsy.com) has created this treasury featuring many INCrowdTeam members.  The treasury will be available through Thursday, December 10 at 2:16 a.m.

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=78496

Holiday Hoopla includes items from:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/njema *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/renegades *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/shanineal
http://www.etsy.com/shop/pumpkinhaus *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/glassaddictions *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/maryjmaalouf
http://www.etsy.com/shop/hairtreasures *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/twoseasidebabes *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/imaginationkids *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/accessoire *
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lucyblaircreations
http://www.etsy.com/shop/KBShimmer *
Shops with an * are  INCrowdteam Members

Meet Stoic

This week, meet Tia, an Evansville INCrowdteam'er who currently focuses on Scrabble tile pendants and hopes to move to other forms of jewelry soon. She's such a fun interview, and her Etsy love is pretty obvious through her answers. Thanks for helping, Tia!

Name: Tia

City of residence: Evansville

Shop name: Stoic

Is there any meaning behind the name of your shop? I've always liked the idea of being stoic, which I describe as having a poker face. Its living your life strictly by reason and not letting your emotions determine things for you. I could NEVER be this way, as I'm a Pisces and destined to be an emotional wreck! I'm the type of person whose whole day can be ruined because someone died in a movie. Seriously. So I guess for me "stoic" is just an interesting, far-fetched concept and a word that I like the sound of!

Tell me about the types of items for sale at your Etsy shop. I sell various forms of jewelry, the main one being Scrabble tile pendants. The scrabble tiles are fun because you can put almost any image on them, whether it be a photo of your baby or the album cover of your favorite band. I have recently decided to stop making new Scrabble tiles, though. It's pretty tedious work, and I want to focus my attention on other creative outlets, such as my other one-of-a-kind jewelry. Also, my husband, our good friend and I are starting a clothing site where we will focus on screen-printing and one-of-a-kind clothing and purses. We are in the process of getting everything ready, so be sure to check out DirtyStreet for some cool new items soon!

What’s your real-world job? Well, I went to school to get a degree in advertising and public relations, as well as a degree in art, only to realize that I live in southern Indiana -- which basically means that creative jobs are far and few between. So I spend a miserable eight hours a day being an office manager -- i.e. glorified secretary -- at a countertop manufacturing company in Newburgh, IN. I am the only girl, and I work in the office alone, so needless to say I spend a LOT of time on the Internet!

How did you learn your Etsy craft? I learned the Scrabble tile process from a tutorial online, and I used it to put my own spin on it. When I first started doing the Scrabble tiles, it was new, and there were only a few people selling them on Etsy. Now it seems literally everyone is doing it!! That sort of drained the fun from it. With my other jewelry and my sewing, I learned from my mom. She was always crafty and would make unique jewelry and clothing for herself to wear.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? I take inspiration from everything I see. I am constantly tearing pages out of magazines, which drives my husband crazy since I leave them all over the house! I watch a lot of movies and get ideas from there. I have started making a lot of things for my son, who is the best inspiration.

You've certainly seen some success with your Etsy sales! What's your secret? I'm a firm believer in listing and relisting often. Esty is so flooded with items; you have to keep things new to stay on the front pages. If someone is searching for something, or even just browsing, chances are they are only going to look through a few pages of listings. Also, use other resources to reach out to people. I thing blogging is a neat way to keep people interested in what you do. I have also done a few sales, as well as giveaways through other people's Web sites. You just have to focus on ways to draw as much attention as possible to your shop.

What are your five favorite shops on Etsy?

1. Disco Belly, because its shirts made me feel like a rock star when I was pregnant
2. The Voyagers
3. Pling
4. Cite Fuzz -- I have one of its monkey hats for my son, and it makes me die laughing every time he wears it.
5. The Machine Stops

Which three of your own items for sale are your favorite? Why do you like them so much?

1. Roy Lichtenstein Scrabble tile pendant -- Lichtenstein is one of my favorite artists, and this piece fits so perfectly on the Scrabble tile. (Check out the photo at the top of this post.)
2. Measure 3 Times, Cut Once -- I love the unique charm of this necklace, and think it would be perfect for a crafter or someone who cuts hair! (Photo is second in this post.)
3. Spring is Near... -- I think this is a beautiful necklace, and I love the length and how it hangs so prettily (at right).

What's the best compliment you've received from a buyer? This is actual feedback that I got recently: "OMG (and I don't use that phrase...ever) My 12 year old cousin was in a talent show and sang "Hit me with your best shot" I saw this and knew I had to get it for her. I bought her a white gold chain to put it on and she loves it. It is so unique no one at her school has anything like it. And every time I see her, she has it on. Great purchase for sure! Not to mention I am definitely her favorite cousin now. (I think I may have always been though....secretly)" That just made my day!!!

Where else can we find you on the Internet? Check out my blog Stoic and our new Dirty Street blog. I'm also on Facebook.

Would you like to be featured on the INCrowdteam blog? Just convo me at Jaclyn1423, and I'll send you some questions.

Celebrate the Season Hoosierstyle

Inalather has curated this gorgeous collection of holiday items featuring members of the Indiana Etsy Street Team. These INCrowd creations will be available for viewing in this treasury through Friday, November 27 at 1:08 a.m. Shops include:
http://www.kittyknitdesigns.etsy.com/
http://www.ageratum.etsy.com/
http://www.auntcindysattic.etsy.com/
http://www.zaneymay.etsy.com/
http://www.feltsewgood.etsy.com/
http://www.jenniferatchison.etsy.com/
http://www.pkfairaday.etsy.com/
http://www.bytheway.etsy.com/
http://www.heidisdesigns2.etsy.com/
http://www.kbshimmer.etsy.com/
http://www.bagsandmorebypam.etsy.com/

Meet: Johnnie Belinda

This week, we meet Johnnie Belinda, a painter of bright and beautiful works from Indianapolis. Due to what my computer is calling an "internal error," I'm unable to upload the photos to show you, so be sure to follow those links and take a gander at her works.

Where were you born and raised? I was born in Indianapolis.

What's the origin of your shop's name? My shop name (Johnnie Belinda) is my given name.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop? I sell a varity of fine art created by me, from two-dimensional abstract, encaustic, acrylic and watercolor to three-dimensional lifecasts, paper pulp and plaster.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? I'm a self-taught visionary/outsider.

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? My mother made hand-crafted items, and I helped with the creations as a child.

How'd you get started creating? I got started creating in grade school and started selling my at age 19 in yard sales and craft shows.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? My creativity is inspired by life and my many moods.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? I belong to vastteam, which stands for Visual Artists Street Team. Here's its blog.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? I love Esty for its community of friendly gifted talented arts and crafters. I love Etsy for ease of use.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.

1. SpiceOfLifeDesigns
2. inalather
3. tmStudioDesigns
4. fortymeg
5. Lanter

Show us three of your own favorite pieces, from your shop and work.

1. The Gift of Love, because I see any pet as a gift to be tresured and cared for as we would any human. They give unconditional love. My inspiration for The Gift of Love came from my daughter's best friend visiting with her little puppy, Jersey. He was so adorable in her hands; I just knew I had to paint the moment.
2. Token of Love 1, because I love the vibrant colors and the yellow background. It reminds me of my grandmother's cheery kitchen. Inspiration is creating a happy painting that reflects the colors of a warm, sunny day.
3. Coyote Moon 2, because it reminds me of the southwest and the mystery of nature. My inspiration is mountains and the reflection of the moon on the cool waters at the base of them.

Anything else to brag on? I have recently been featured in Feiro Magazine, a literary and arts magazine out of Bloomington, Ind.

Are you a Etsian from Indiana? Would you like to be featured here on the INCrowdteam blog? If so, send me a convo over at Jaclyn1423, and I'll send you a list of questions. Thanks!

Meet AnnCrochets

This week, we meet Ann, a Brownsburg woman who's a crochet'ing queen over at AnnCrochets. Many of her designs are originals, and below, she tells about winning at some Indiana State Fairs and the importance of using acrylic yarn.

What’s your REAL name? Ann Kelley – honestly ;-)

Where were you born and raised? Where are you now, and what led you there? I was born and raised in the Pittsboro/Brownsburg area of central Indiana. We live on the farm that has been in my family since 1910. The banner on my shop is a picture of the homestead where my mother was born and raised. The barn is gone now, and the house has been remodeled, but luckily this sunrise will always be with me.

What's the origin of your shop's name? Well, AnnCrochets sort of seemed like a no-brainer.

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop? My things are all crocheted by me. Some are varying degrees of originals, and some are from patterns. Materials vary also, but most of the things are made with threads and yarns that can be washed – I like to see my things being used!

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? I guess my education for crochet came in an apprenticeship under my grandmother’s guidance. Crochet has been both something to keep my hands busy and a wonderful relaxation tool for many years now.

What’s your real-world job? I no longer have a "real" job. I had a stroke more than three years ago, and can’t do the work I was trained for. I was a medical transcriptionist and even my neurologist admitted he wouldn’t want me transcribing for him any more. So now I guess I’m a professional volunteer. My main focus is Indiana Sheltie Rescue, where I do what I can to help raise money to pay for the needs of the dogs in our program. I also drive a route for Meals on Wheels one day a week and volunteer one morning a week at our church’s daycare.

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? My genes seem to have skipped around a lot. Some things skipped a generation and re-emerged. Other things were just a part of the way of life we had way back when and everybody did it – mostly because they had to. And then there are things I have no idea where they came from!

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Almost anything can trigger that response. It might be a picture of something I think I could make better or different – a jumping-off point, if you will. Or a yarn or thread that I can visualize as a particular finished piece. I have several bundles of thread or yarn, hooks and patterns all gathered together and just waiting for me.

What’s your favorite fiber to crochet with? I do most of my work with acrylics because I want things to be used and the bottom line is – if you can’t wash it, it won’t be used nearly as much.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? Ask me this one after I’ve had more than two sales!!

Show us three of your own favorite pieces.

• This bedspread (at right) won the sweepstakes for a crochet item at the Indiana State Fair in 1991 I worked on it off and on for about seven years. It is an old pattern called Mosaic Rose, and I have one my grandmother made for me in the same pattern! It fits a double bed.
• This second image shows a pattern I have always liked. I have made it many times and in different threads and colors.
• The table cloth (pictured at the top of this post) is a one that I always liked. It is about 78 inches in diameter and took an honorable mention at the Indiana State Fair in about 1999. My photography skills are minimal, so I'm very happy with the way this photographed, in spite of me!
  

Where else can we find you on the Internet?

• I have a Blogspot blog.
• On Facebook
• On Twitter
• On Photobucket

I read in your shop announcement that you donate part of the money from each purchase to a Sheltie rescue. Do you have Shelties? And what kind of dog is that in your Etsy user pic? We now have a sheltie again. We had been without one for six years but recently adopted a rescuee. Because most shelties need a fenced yard and we no longer have a fence, we weren’t even able to foster for quite a while. Shelties are a herding dog and therefore need a job to keep their minds occupied and bodies exercised. They are wonderful, smart dogs with a huge desire to please but are not a dog for everyone.

The dog that is my logo is Lady. She’s a mix from the local Animal Control. I was volunteering for the Hendricks County Humane Society when she was brought in. She was a cute black puppy (don’t know what happened there!) who needed a home, so she came to live with us. At 11, she has outlived her other sheltie brothers but now is happy to have a new playmate.

Anything else to brag on? I have had original designs published in national crochet magazines. A lot of my work is original in that I didn’t follow the pattern exactly. I do a lot of tweaking and revising in my work, but most never get anything written down beyond a notation on the pattern. I won the sweepstakes for a crocheted item at the 1991 Indiana State Fair with a bedspread. The pattern is called mosaic rose. It was an old pattern that I liked. Beginning in the 1960s, my grandmother crocheted a tablecloth and a bedspread for each of the females in the family (my mother, her brother’s wife and the three granddaughters). My gifts were put away to be used "someday." Well, when I finally had a bed big enough to use my grandmother’s bedspread on, I pulled it out of storage and discovered that it was done in the mosaic rose – same pattern as my bedspread!

Green Tea - Warm and Soothing

Spice of Life Designs has created a magnificent treasury of colors and textures entitled Green Tea - Warm and Soothing. The treasury will be available for viewing through Monday, November 9 at 1:04 a.m. and includes members of the Indiana Etsy Street Team - INCrowdteam as well as other Etsy artisans. An asterisk denotes INCrowdteam members.

http://bythewayside.etsy.com/*

http://sweetgumhandbags.etsy.com/

http://amysfunkyfibers.etsy.com/*

http://beautifulbridget.etsy.com/

http://orglamix.etsy.com/

http://accessoire.etsy.com/*

http://patesdefruits.etsy.com/

http://twoseasidebabes.etsy.co/ *

http://glassaddictionsetsy.com/*

http://squirellywhirls.etsy.com/*

http://inalather.etsy.com/*

"Tis Time!

By the Wayside has created a gorgeous treasury that includes INCrowdteam members along with others. 'Tis Time! will be viewable through Thursday, November 6 at 7:20 p.m. You will certainly want to see the selections from the following Etsy shops:
www.jcjools.etsy.com
www.waterrose.etsy.com
www.auntcindysattic.etsy.com
www.midnightcoiler.etsy.com
www.feltsewgood.etsy.com
www.efiwarsh.etsy.com
www.inalather.etsy.com
www.lucidjewelry.etsy.com
www.waybettercards.etsy.com

Meet: KittyKnitDesigns

Howdy all! Jaclyn here, from Jaclyn 1423. This is my first post for the INCrowdteam blog ((dances)) so I hope to get it all down right. These profiles of wonderful Indiana Etisians will be appearing Tuesday evenings, so be sure to check back weekly to meet a new face.

Today: Susan Danner, of KittyKnitDesigns!

Where were you born and raised? The Heartland: Muncie, Ind.

Where are you now, and what led you there? Back home again in Muncie, Ind. In 1969 I graduated from Ball State University with a degree in science. From 1969 through 1973, I lived in Bloomington, Ind., with my then-husband and daughter while he completed his degree in optometry. While in Bloomington, I worked as a service representative for Indiana Bell Telephone Company. After my ex-husband graduated, we moved to Shelbyville, Ind., where he purchased an optometry practice. We were divorced in 1976, and my daughter and I moved first to Muncie, then to Ohio where I taught science and physics. We moved back to Muncie again, and I continued to teach science at the middle school level. When our school system had a reduction in force, I was one of the teachers who was let go. I returned to Ball State and obtained a second undergraduate degree -- this time in Management Informations Systems. I stayed on at Ball State and earned my master's degree in Computer Programming and Statistics. I graduated on a Friday and began teaching at Ball State on the following Monday.

After teaching at Ball State for several years, I left to pursue a doctorate's in Management Information Systems at the University of Georgia, but I hated living so far away from my family. I returned to Muncie and held several positions: financial Analyst for Ball State, Director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and executive director of the YWCA. Then I made another really big change: A friend owned a bookstore and wanted to sell it. I bought the store in 1995. One of my booksellers asked if she could start a knitting group and, of course, I said yes. The knitting group grew and grew, and eventually we added a knitting nook to our store. After many fun years, I closed the store in June 2008 and retired and have been knitting like mad ever since.

What’s the origin of your shop’s name? I love cats. I have six cats at home, and we had a store cat that was very famous and much beloved by all. When he died, his obituary was in our newspaper. My daughter came up with the name, KittyKnitDesigns, combining my love of knitting and my love of cats.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop? My Etsy shop is filled with knitted items ranging from felted flowers to purses to gloves to hats to custom pet sweaters. I specialize in cute!

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? My educational background is in science, computer programming and statistics. I can’t say that it relates to my knitting in any way except that I enjoy creating items and working with intarsia patterns.

What’s your real-world job? I am retired -- which means I am busier than ever.

Does creating stuff run in the family? Creating items definitely runs in the family. My great-grandmother crocheted, and she did not use a pattern. She taught me to crochet by looking at an item and figuring out how to replicate it. Both of my grandmothers did embroidery work, cutwork, quilting and sewing. My mother knits and did sewing. My daughter sews and makes many crafts. Now, the men in our family? Not so much.

Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? Crocheting I was taught how to do by my great-grandmother. My mother helped me with my sewing. I learned how to knit by osmosis.

How'd you get started creating? I really can’t remember not doing crafts, sewing, and knitting. I think I was born creative.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? If I see a design that I like, I will try to adapt it to my knitting. Sometimes I will see an item and think, "I can do that better.” Then I’ll work on customizing the design to my wants and needs.

If you had to pick one fiber or yarn to describe your personality, what would it be, and why? Bamboo: Soft, but durable.

How long ago was the bubblegum bubble-blowing contest you mention in your shop bio? That was about 15 years ago, but I am still claiming the title! I belong to Altrusa Club of Muncie, which is a service club for professional women. At one of our meetings, we had a “summer fun” day. The executive director of the Muncie Symphony and I were the two finalists in the bubblegum bubble-blowing contest, and I won. It was a really fun time to let our hair down and just have fun.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? I really love the people that Etsy reaches and the diversity of items available. So many nice people to meet and so many neat things to buy!

What are your five favorite Etsy shops?

1) soaps
2) nyjolejewellery
3) sarahmaloney

4) Woodland Miniatures
5) BeachGlassMemories

Tell us some of your own favorite pieces, from your shop and work.

Bunny Hat and Mitten Set (pictured) – Knit from soft white yarn with a rolled brim with perky white and pink ears and an embroidered nose and mouth. Mittens are white with a pink paw print palm. I just really wanted to design a cute hat and mitten set for a cute little tyke. Bunny Hat and Mittens Set

Orchard Fingerless Gloves – Intarsia is another technique that really intrigues me. You can get such fabulous designs with a bit of hard work and patience. I have made several intarsia items and am amazed at what is capable of being produced. Orchard Fingerless Gloves

Where else can we find you on the internet? www.Ravelry.com

Anything else to brag on? Well, it may seem unusual for an artist, but I am very proud to have co-authored a technical book about relational databases in the early 1980s. Unfortunately, the book is very out-of-date and now out-of-print. I’m also very proud to host a weekly knitting group that has met for eight years. Our oldest member is 94 and the youngest is 25.

Last question: if you HAD to pick between knitting and crochet, which would it be? Without any hesitation – knitting!

You Can't Live Without It!

Glorious Glass Garden has created a geometrical treasury entitled You Can't Live Without It. Featuring some INCrowdteam members, along with other artists, the treasury can be viewed through Monday, October 19, at 9:26 p.m.



Those featured in the treasury include:

http://www.retrorecordart.etsy.com/

http://www.evebehar.etsy.com/

http://www.totertot.etsy.com/

http://www.claudialord.etsy.com/

http://www.creasolmosaic.etsy.com/

http://www.brazandesign.etsy.com/

http://www.sassyglassstudio.etsy.com/

http://www.rubychicboutique.etsy.com/

http://www.studio6or7.etsy.com/

http://www.gloriousglassgarden.etsy.com/

http://www.art2theexteme.etsy.com/

http://www.beckymortoncreations.etsy.com/

Going in Rainbow Circles

By the By has created a delightfully colorful treasury for the INCrowdteam! Going in Rainbow Circles will be available for viewing through Saturday, October 17 at 3:33 p.m. Shops featured in the treasury are:
http://www.auntcindysattic.etsy.com
http://www.beadstylin.etsy.com
http://gallagj.etsy.com
http://KimsCraftyApple.etsy.com
http://www.LindenAvenueDesigns.etsy.com
http://www.SeedtoBead.etsy.com
http://www.Fractalgirl.etsy.com
http://www.Zoesdare.etsy.com
http://www.HautTotes.etsy.com
http://imaginationkids.etsy.com
http://feltsewcrafty.etsy.com

Winter Tides

Spice of Life Designs has created this totally awesome treasury entitled Winter Tides. It will be viewable through Saturday, October 17 at 10:45 a.m. You will certainly want to check out these gorgeous creations. The treasury features these shops. (Those followed by an asterisk will be participating in the INCrowdteam run show: The Hoosier Artisan Holiday Boutique at the Mansion at Oak Hill in Carmel, IN this Saturday, Octrober 17 from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. - visit http://Hoosier/Artisan Boutique.com for more details.)

http://www.sadlyharmless.etsy.com/ *

http://www.glassaddictions.etsy.com/

http://www.noahandlilah.etsy.com/

http://www.greenpost.etsy.com/

http://www.happylake.etsy.com/ *

http://www.inalather.etsy.com/ *

http://www.erinkeys.etsy.com/ *

http://www.eclu.etsy.com/

http://attickpatchwork.etsy.com/

http://accessoire.etsy.com/

http://kbshimmer.etsy.com/ *

http://michellebrusegaard.etsy.com/

Dear Santa

Jaclyn1423 has created this wonderful treasury featuring many INCrowdTeam shops along with others. Dear Santa will be available for viewing through Thursday, October 15 at 10:08 a.m.. The featured shops include:



http://www.amycornwell.etsy.com/

http://www.inalather.etsy.com/

http://www.shanicdesigns.etsy.com/

http://www.gallagj.etsy.com/

http://www.vol25.etsy.com/

http://www.zacszoaps.etsy.com/

http://www.adnagam.etsy.com/

http://www.olgasboutique.etsy.com/

http://www.bookity.etsy.com/

http://www.reconstructtotrendy.etsy.com/

http://www.theangrycupcake.etsy.com/

http://www.glassaddictions.etsy.com/

Next Saturday, October 17th...

The INCrowdteam's Hoosier Artisan Holiday Boutique

Saturday, 10/17/09: 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

The Mansion at Oak Hill: 5801 E. 116th Street, Carmel, Indiana 46033

Raffle proceeds to benefit the March of Dimes, Indiana Chapter.

INCrowdteam Interview 10/2/09 - Jaclyn Youhana, a.k.a. Jaclyn1423

Hello, readers! I'm so busy trying to prepare for the Hoosier Artisan Holiday Boutique and at my regular job that when a lovely INCrowdteam member volunteered to help out here, I jumped at the chance! Imagine having these interviews in the capable hands of an experienced writer and blogger! I'd love to introduce her to you; meet Jaclyn Youhana!

Where were you born and raised? I was born in Joliet, Illinois, but my family moved to a town north of Cincinnati when I was in fifth grade, so I really grew up there, in West Chester, Ohio.

Where are you now, and what led you there? I currently live in Fort Wayne, Indiana. After college (I went to Kent State University) I moved back home with my parents, who had moved to New Lenox, Illinois. I lived there for a year while I worked about 45 minutes away in Kankakee, Illinois; I eventually moved there. I've lived in Fort Wayne for a little longer than a year. A job brought me here, and this is probably the happiest I've ever been in any city I've lived in - and there's been a few.

What's the origin of your shop's name? Jaclyn1423: The "14" is for my birthday, and the "23" is for, oh yes, Michael Jordan. When I got my first AOL Instant Messenger screen name back in junior high, it ended in "1423," so that's a number I've always used for various online things. When I first created my Etsy account, it was simply as a buyer. I've been selling here for only three or so months. Had I created the account as a seller, I probably would have tried to come up with something more creative; now, three months into it, I love "Jaclyn1423."

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop? Jaclyn1423 is all jewelry, all the time. I like bright colors and to mix materials that wouldn't seem to go together at first glance. I also pride myself on having affordable items.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? Nada [nothing]. My bachelor's is in newspaper journalism. I got into making jewelry from a friend about a year ago.

What’s your real-world job (shudder)? Features writer. No need for the shudder. I'm quite lucky: I love my job.

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? Not really. Both of my grandmothers are very proficient in sewing, though I learned to use a sewing machine from my college roommate. As for jewelry making, I guess you could consider me first generation.

How'd you get started creating? My friend Kathleen makes jewelry, and she let me play with her goodies once about a year ago. I adore jewelry and have way more than any 26-year-old ought to. After messing with Kathleen's beads and learning things like "This is how you open a jump ring and still maintain its shape," I realized I kind of had a knack for it - and I adored it.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Oh Lord, where do I begin? Books, music, movies, paintings - definitely paintings! - people I love, a deep conversation with some good wine, road trips, photos. Inspiration is everywhere, and it takes a mighty stubborn person to refuse to see it.

If you had to choose one gem or stone to describe your personality, what would it be, and why? Ooooh, what a fun question! Naturally, I'm going to have to go with a diamond, also my birthstone. The "why" goes back to elementary school. All my friends had their little birthstone rings, and when I asked my mom for one, she told me that mommies didn't get little girls diamond rings, that men gave them to women when they wanted to get married. Even then, I thought, "Well, that's a load of crap. Why should I have to wait for some guy to get it for me?" When I graduated college, I told myself I would be buying my own diamond ring, thankyouverymuch. My right-hand ring is easily my favorite piece of jewelry, more for what it represents to me than the fact that it's pretty.

Do you belong to any street teams other than the INCrowdteam? This is my first foray into street teams. After I see how this goes, I may try to get involved with a jewelry team.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? It gets my items out there. For a while, I was making pieces and letting them lie around my apartment. I love the idea of people actually getting enjoyment out of the goodies I make.

Please recommend five of your favorite shops from all of Etsy.
1) paperplanet
2) theangrycupcake
3) choumie7
4) CarolinaCottage
5) papermoth

Show us three of your favorite pieces from your own shop and work.

Aurora's vintage yellow and pink necklace - I really enjoy finding vintage jewelry at antique stores and turning them into something new and fabulous. The focal piece here is a vintage brooch, and I think it's absolutely stunning. The chains are also vintage, but the acrylic yellow gems are new, as is the toggle clasp. I was so pleased with how this piece came out.









Alice's gorgeous ruby red pendant - All the pieces of this necklace are vintage, too, but the design is much simpler than the previous necklace. I didn't have to do too much because when a pendant is that beautiful, I think it speaks for itself.











Roberta's rosy rose gold dangles - I think these earrings are so much fun, and the process is really indicative of how I make most of my pieces. I had purchased the rose gold findings on a whim, and about a week later, I found the larger pink enameled pieces. I like to spread all my goodies out and see what goes together, and I thought those two pieces looked great. I especially liked that they didn't seem to go: rose gold plated seems a little classier than little-girl pink enamel, but I think the finished product is fun.











Do you sell on consignment? Nopers.

Where else can we find you on the internet? Snap, Crackle, Pop (my blog), on Twitter and on facebook.

Anything else to brag on? I had my very first jewelry party last weekend, and it was so much more successful than I ever could have imagined! Slow sales on Etsy can be frustrating, and I often wonder, "Maybe my stuff is just icky." But when people saw it in person, they loved it. I sold more than twice what I was expecting to.

Do you yourself have certain pieces of jewelry that you always, always wear? Tell us about them. That right-hand ring, which I described previously, and another ring, sterling, with a paua shell stone, the blue kind with black veins. I purchased the ring at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas on a camping trip a few summers ago. The ring is pretty, but I mainly like the memories it brings back when I look at it.

Last question... what made you volunteer to help out with the INCrowdteam blog? I love the idea of a group of people helping one another market their wares, and I currently write for three blogs (aside from my personal blog, I write for two at work). Writing's kind of my thing, so I figured if I wanted to help out, this would definitely be an area where I could do so.

Jaclyn, I can tell just from looking at your shop's photos that your stuff is most certainly not "icky!" -- Stockannette

Hot Chocolate....YUM!

Spice of Life Designs has curated a new treasury entitled, Hot Chocolate...YUM! The treasury features several INCrowdteam members along with some other artists. The treasury may be viewed through Sunday, October 3 at 8:50 a.m. Shops included in the treasury are:

ChuckEByrdWalArt.etsy.com
inalather.etsy.com
TwoSeasideBabes.etsy.com
ErinKeys.etsy.com

RefindOriginals.etsy.com

Bythewayside.etsy.com
ElegeantRoseBoutique.etsy.com

Julieandco.etsy.com

aosleather.etsy.co

ellemardesigns.etsy.com

econia.etsy.com

awakenjournaling.etsy.com

Team Chat and Listings Thread for October 2009

Be sure to check out our team listings and chat thread.....great gift ideas or for yourself as well! Go there now!

INCrowdteam Interview 9/26/09 - Anita Hopper, a.k.a. refindoriginals

Do you like to switch purses when the season changes? Do you need a new back-to-school bag, or are you anticipating getting (or giving) a new handbag for the holidays? Well, then, meet Anita of refindoriginals!

Where were you born and raised? I was born in Crawfordsville, Indiana and grew up on a farm located between Crawfordsville and Lafayette, Indiana.

Where are you now, and what led you there? I live on the East side of Indianapolis, in the Irvington area, in a lovely historic neighborhood. Actually, I guess some of life’s difficulties led us here, but we love the area and are happy to be here! My husband and I along with our three sons who are all adults and have their own families now, have lived in the Indianapolis area for a lot of years, but have moved around some within the Indianapolis area.

What's the origin of your shop's name? Hmm, well, as I remember it, one of our three adult sons and I were tossing around names. I liked something with “re” at the beginning because I use recycled materials to make my handbags. Since I have to “find” the materials we put those two together and came up with ReFind. I liked the play on words. We had other ideas but since the bags I make are all unique in some way I thought “ReFind Originals” expressed what I was doing pretty well.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop? I sell handmade leather handbags and other accessories, such as leather cuffs made from all recycled materials. All of the handbags are lined with fabrics from cotton or silk garments that I find at thrift shops as well. It’s always fun to look inside a bag to see what’s in there. It seems I am always coming up with new ideas of other things to make and sell, but I have difficulty finding the time to implement all of my ideas. Right now I am thinking of doing some cool leather pillows, for instance.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? I am self taught, for the most part. I have been sewing for most of my life. I learned to make window treatments and had a business out of my home, designing, constructing and installing window treatments for 25 years. The way I usually approach learning how to do something is to learn by reading and by looking at things to see how they’re put together, then by trying it. I just research until I find the answers I’m looking for.

What’s your real-world job (shudder)? This is my real world job! I work 60 to 80 hours a week doing every part of this business. I decided about three years ago that I wanted to give this my best shot so I closed down my home interior business and began to focus entirely on making and selling handbags from repurposed leather. It’s amazing to me how much time this takes, and how much I still have to learn!

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? My mother is an excellent seamstress, even though she didn’t teach me to sew. My grandmother was very creative, and was always working on a quilt or working in her flower garden. Some fond memories I have of my grandmother are walking through her flower garden beside her as she told me about each flower, pointing out individual blooms and talking about the colors and wonderful scents. She also did beautiful floral arrangements, which we would talk about together. Inside, she was usually working on a quilt while we talked about all sorts of subjects. I don’t remember her ever formally trying to teach me anything, but I certainly learned from her. She had a tremendous impact on me.

How'd you get started creating? Like many, I started “sewing” clothes for my Barbie doll. I used to take scraps of my mother’s fabrics and wrap them around the doll and actually sew them onto her! My favorite subject in school was art. Growing up in a rural area, I joined 4-H and did craft and sewing projects. I learned to knit and do all sorts of needlework as a teenager. I took sewing classes when I was a young mom, as well as pottery and oil painting classes. I also refinished furniture. I have always been happiest when creating, and I was always trying to come up with some grand scheme to make money with my creations.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? I have always loved handbags. I get ideas just by looking at them. Walking down the street in Manhattan really gets me going. I also have always loved antiques and vintage items. I feel especially creative when I am in the environment of a great antique or vintage store. I love thinking about how I could repurpose some old beaten-up item.

Do you use a regular sewing machine, or the kind of sewing machines that they use for car upholstery? I use more than one machine. I started making the bags with my regular home sewing machine. I quickly saw that if I was serious about purse making as a business that I would need to go out and buy an industrial machine. When sewing on leather it’s important to have a machine that has a “walking foot” so your stitches are even.

What if someone has a Naugahyde or “pleather” coat? Do you work with leather alternatives? I don’t find as much pleasure in working with leather alternatives. I have done a couple of bags with a little bit of “pleather" mixed with leather. It can look very nice and is very functional but I prefer the softness and feel of real leather.

Do you belong to any Street Teams other than the INCrowdteam? I do not belong to any other Street Teams. I haven’t been selling on Etsy very long and haven’t had time to really look into other teams. That said, I am the type of person that would rather not spread myself too thin, so I probably will not be looking that hard for other teams to join.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? I like being a part of something that is much bigger than I am. I like the opportunity for exposure that I might not have otherwise. I also think that setting up shop and keeping things going is pretty easy on Etsy because they have already thought so many things through, and they continue to work at making it easier and better. It all seemed very daunting to me before I actually got around to setting up shop and then I found that it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. I also like the learning opportunities through Etsy. So I guess I have more than one favorite thing.

Please recommend your five favorite shops from all of Etsy. This is extremely hard for me! I have so many favorites so far, and I haven’t really had time to explore the way I would like to, but here are some I really like.
1) fliptstudio
2) WhatOnceWas
3) Madrin Designs
4) tinahdee
5) Crispinaffrench

Show us three of your own favorite pieces, from your shop and work.

Wine Arabella Shoulder Bag



















Purple Ruffle Clutch




















Caramel and Chocolate Barrel Bag






















Do you sell on consignment? Yes. The two brick and mortar shops I’m selling in are Blooming Dragon Emporium in Irvington and Gallery 116 in Fishers. I also sell on consignment online.

Where else can we find and follow you online? On my website and on Facebook.

How many purses, clutches, etc. do you have for your own personal use, and how do you store them? Is every closet in your home packed with pocketbooks? You would be surprised at my lack of personal handbags. I pick one and carry it forever. I’m always thinking that I need to be sure and carry one of my standout bags so people can see what I make, but I always want to sell those! I don’t have time to make bags for myself. However, I have made some killer laptop/messenger bags for each of my three sons. My husband is still waiting for his.

Anything else to brag on? I have had some wonderful opportunities in this category. An article in the Indianapolis Star about ReFind Originals, being interviewed on Fox 59 news, an interview by Tim "Treeboy" Bush on WRTV, and being featured in Body+Soul magazine this past June are some of the highlights. Some of my bags have also been chosen for some great treasuries on Etsy. Cool Moms Picks also featured one of my ruffled clutches in their Mothers’ Day gift guide. My "Woof Pack” was chosen by Modern Dog magazine for their staff favorites page. I’ve had some nice trunk shows at Marigold in Broad Ripple and Gallery 116 in Fishers. My ruffled clutch is going to be in the Fall Giveaway in Women’s Health magazine this Fall.

Last question... if you could have one Etsy-related question answered by some of the wise and wonderful pros in the INCrowdteam, what would it be? How do you keep the balancing act going with Etsy, art shows, custom orders and wholesale? Where do you find help when you need it? I have lots of questions for those more experienced than I am!

Thanks for answering all my questions, Anita! I look forward to meeting you (and your bags!) at our Hoosier Artisan Holiday Boutique on October 17! --- Stockannette

Autumn's Brilliance

Jaci from By the Way has created a gorgeous treasury for this autumn season! Entitled Autumn's Brilliance. you can view this fabulous collection through Monday, September 28 at 4 a.m. The treasury features the following artisans:

http://www.passionandpatience.etsy.com/

http://www.leapinggazelles.etsy.com/

http://www.lilpadcreations.etsy.com/

http://www.chuckebyrdwallart.com/

http://www.gallagj.etsy.com/

http://www.inalather.etsy.com/

http://www.noahandlilah.etsy.com/

http://www.artecological.etsy.com/

http://www.aroshatwists.etsy.com/

http://http://www.knitzyblonde.etsy.com/

http://http://www.acreativeeye.etsy.com/

http://http://www.kimscraftyapple.etsy.com/

INcrowdteam Interview 9/19/09 - Lianne Donald, a.k.a. WhatOnceWas

Yesterday marked 15 years since the day I moved to Indiana. I knew I loved it here, and I knew Indiana held many surprises for me. One of these surprises is the huge variety of artists I would discover all around me - The INCrowdteam! Case in point this week: WhatOnceWas!

Where were you born and raised? Where are you now, and what led you there?I was born and raised in Indianapolis; I currently live out in the country in a farmhouse built in 1896 in Lebanon, Indiana. I was ready for peace and quiet, and I absolutely love it here!

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop? I design and create wonderful, one of a kind pieces of jewelry using repurposed antique and vintage components.

What's the origin of your shop's name? Since my jewelry is made from antique and vintage components, I wanted a name that evoked the feel of my jewelry. Also, because it is repurposed - what once was an old, unused piece is now a beautiful piece of jewelry to be worn today.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? None, as it relates to my jewelry. I'm completely self taught - good old trial and error and lots of reading and practice!

What’s your real-world job? I'm a Registered Nurse and work full time in a hospital in Indianapolis. I like to say, "I'm a nurse by profession, and a jewelry maker by obsession!"

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? Well, my grandmother was a wonderful seamstress, as was my mother. But I don't sew! I'm not really sure where my creativity comes from.

How'd you get started creating? I've always had a slightly creative side, just in the past ten years or so did I actually "listen" to that part of me and decide to see where it would lead!

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Oh, so many different things: nature, quotes from books, song lyrics, the bits and baubles I find at estate sales and antique shops. I just get random ideas at random times, usually when it's quiet. I really have to be in the mood to make my jewelry, I can't force it. I will go days without making something, then all of a sudden I get that creative urge.

Do you yourself have certain pieces of jewelry that you always, always wear? Tell us about them. You probably won't believe this - I don't wear any jewelry! Anyone who knows me is amazed that I make jewelry, for that reason.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? I love being able to put my jewelry out there for others to see. I love being in control of when and how much I choose to list. It has been a very good experience! I have "met" some wonderful, helpful people through Etsy. The amount of talent on Etsy is amazing.

Please recommend your five favorite shops from all of Etsy. There are so many; I hate to choose just five. Anyone can go to my favorites and see all I have there.

Show us three of your own favorite pieces, from your shop and work. Once again, it's hard for me to choose. I truly love everything I make. I put my heart and soul into each piece, and each is my favorite. I wouldn't make it if I personally didn't love it.

Do you sell on consignment? Not yet, that's on my "To Do" list.

Where else can we find you on the internet? On Twitter.

Anything else to brag on? I have been fortunate to be included in two Storque articles, have been on Etsy's front page a few times, have been included in a few treasuries, have been on a few wonderful blogs. I am just pleased that I can make my jewelry and know that there are others out there who appreciate my work.

Thanks, Lianne! I think loving where we are is a vital part of a fulfilling creative process. -- Stockannette

INCrowdteam Interview 9/12/09 - Linda Chandler, a.k.a. lchandler

Thank you, INCrowdteam, for your enthusiastic response to my call for interview subjects! I'll be posting them in the order I received them. Today, take a look at jewelry by Linda Chandler!

Where were you born and raised? In a small town called Milroy, Indiana, where you could leave your doors unlocked and open all the time. No stop lights or police station; we were lucky enough to have a post office, small bank and grocery store.

What's the origin of your shop's name? lchandler I wish I could say it came from something creative, but it's just the first initial of my first name and my last name! It came about with my very first email address many years ago.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop? I enjoy designing and creating unique pieces of jewelry. Working in multimedia keeps me entertained. My work mainly includes metalsmithing, resin, precious metal clay and wire work.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? Being formally trained as a graphic design artist has helped me in many ways to become a self-taught artisan.

Does creating stuff run in the family? Were you taught things on purpose or by osmosis from prior generations? Creating art doesn't run in my family. I have no idea where my creativity came from! I've always liked creating beautiful things and was encouraged by my grade school art teacher to pursue my art.

How'd you get started creating? I grew up as an only child. I began drawing at an early age and found that I had a natural gift. As time passed, I found myself dabbling in whatever arts and crafts that interested me at the moment. My love of jewelry, and the unique and unusual, landed me in the jewelry making arena. I loved it and have settled into creating jewelry and always have the desire to learn new and different techniques.

Where are you now, and what led you there? My kids wanted me to do something to get out of their hair while they were growing up and leaving home. I guess it started with beads and wire, on to wire wrapping, that lead to metal forming and then metal smithing. At the moment I’m a metalsmith but also love Precious metal Clay, resin, weaving, braiding and glass fusing, just to name a few.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on? Having seen and grown tired of standard traditional jewelry, I find great pleasure in creating the unique and unusual. I enjoy making a piece that will gain attention from all who see it. I enjoy someone asking, "How did you do that?"

Do you yourself have certain pieces of jewelry that you always, always wear? If so, please tell us about them. Not really, I usually will wear something new I've made until I come up with another idea. I only wear something for a while to see how well it wears and to get others' opinions of how it looks. Comfort and durability are my main objectives.

Do you belong to any Street Teams (other than the INCrowdteam)? If so, which ones and why? I also belong to Starving Artists (SATeam), many fabulous artists that share their work and ideas.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy? I enjoy being able to display my handmade work with other wonderful artists, as well as making new friends and exchanging design ideas.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
1) trolltracks

2) blindspotjewellery

3) carameljubilee

4) happylake

5) tiptopapplesauce

Show us three of your own favorite pieces, from your shop and work.

Urban City/Annotate Pendant - This piece is Precious Metal Clay; I love skylines and carving in clay.
















Basket (textile) Weave Bracelet - One of my exclusive designs that receives compliments like "exquisite," which really thrills me!


















40 inch chain AS - I like making long chains and working with argentium silver.


















Do you sell on consignment? Not at this time.

Where else can we find you online? My website and on flickr.

Anything else to brag on? Featured Artist in Jewelry Artist Magazine in 1999 "Weaving." Co-author and artist of Woven Wire Jewelry, Getting Started Making Wire Jewelry, and Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping. Winner of the PMA Benjamin Franklin Award. Featured in gallery section of Mark Lareau's book, All Wired Up and in Teach Yourself Visually Jewelry Making and Beading by Chris Franchetti Michaels. I enjoy teaching at non-profit schools.

If you had to describe yourself (or your personality) as one particular gem or stone, what would it be, and why?
I would describe myself as an opal because of its inner beauty. Deep inside are many small pieces which all make up one beautiful piece. Each small piece of my opal are the techniques I've learned and have executed in the designs I make as well as the many colorful friends I've made as I have traveled down this golden road of jewelry design. By the way, this stone is my birthstone.

Last question... what’s the best piece of advice you’d give a new Etsy seller (like me)? My motto is, "Enjoy what you do, have fun with it." Let your mind wander. Kick the sides out of that design 'box' and come up with unique ideas that make you stand tall above the rest. Never allow it to become a job because it is then that the enjoyment and creativity will suffer.

I appreciate your wise words, Linda! Thank you for letting me share them with our readers! --- Stockannette

Interstate Interview 9/9/09 - Michael Phipps of phippsart

You may have heard about this month's Interstate Interview subject in a recent Etsy email. Here's a little more about Michael Phipps, a kind and generous Etsian who created a phenomenon called the Sneak Attack!

Where are you located? Is this where you were born and raised? I’m currently in Orem, Utah, but grew up 45 minutes north of here in Salt Lake City. I’ve also had the chance to live for a year or two each in England, Québec and Connecticut, which were all tremendous experiences!

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop? I started out selling prints of my artwork, but soon decided to sell screen printed T-shirts. People are usually able to find more room in their closet for art than on their walls, so the T-shirts have done a lot better.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work? I took a lot of art and music classes in high school and continued this trend on into college where I graduated in Illustration.

What’s your real-world job? I work from home as an artist, which includes my Etsy shop as well as freelance illustration jobs. My current projects are a privately commissioned oil painting, a painting for book of a Swedish version of Hansel and Gretel, and a 16’ x 33’ mural on canvas that will be going to Los Angeles. It makes it hard to fit in new shirt designs, but I’ve got about three or four I’m working on.

How'd you get started creating? Is everyone in your family artistic? All my life I have loved to create. As a kid, my friends and I used to draw, make marble chutes from cardstock, do origami, and all sorts of creative and artistic things. I still miss doing a lot of those things now that I have to try to make money off of it! My mother paints as a hobby and has always been very supportive as has the rest of my family, but not all are very artistic.

Who are some of your favorite artists? I really like Escher even after all these years. His art became very trendy while I was in high school, but I think he’s deserving of the recognition. I like many of Dali’s works (but not all!), as well Pieter Bruegel the Elder. I enjoy illuminated manuscripts and other ancient ornamental artwork, have been inspired by the album covers of Roger Dean, love good children’s books (especially Dr. Seuss) and much more.

Tell us a little about your creative process. I like to find inspiration from lots of sources so my ideas and work will vary. I have no interest in doing things like portraiture or landscapes, because my favorite part of the process is using my imagination. I’m aware that even creating from life requires a certain type of imagination, but I guess I like to do something a little more “out there” for the most part!










Please recommend five of your favorite shops from all of Etsy. In no particular order:
LittleRobot
yellena
melissamoss
rarebeasts
CaramelJubilee

Please share three favorite items from your own shop.

Instrumental Oddities Shirt This is my personal favorite shirt and therefore the one I wear the most. I love odd music and the bizarre instruments that help make it! I was a little worried that the design might have a limited appeal, but it’s done pretty well!

SNIP Shirt The other shirt I wear a lot is my SNIP shirt (I’ve linked the women’s version for variety, though). The power in the design is that it gets the viewer to picture what will happen to the birds in the near future and to use a bit of imagination.

Maternity Fetus Shirt I can’t say that I’ve ever worn this one, although I have had two or three guys request custom versions of it!
















Where else can we find you on the internet?

On Twitter, Facebook, ScatterbrainTees.com and michaelphipps.net.

Do you sell anywhere offline (consignment, retail, craft shows, etc.)? I’ve done a few shows and have items selling on consignment at about seven or eight places across the country.

We've got many new INCrowdteam members - some of whom have just opened up shop. Can you share a tip or two, some advice, on how to make our shops successful? I do better when I am advertising somewhere off site. The more specific it is to my shop, the better!

So, what’s the deal with the Handmade Movement? Tell us why you started, how you got people to participate in the first few Sneak Attacks, etc. Remembering how great it was to make that first sale on Etsy, I started threads in the Etsy forums one day entitled “Make Someone’s Day,” encouraging people to buy from people who hadn’t had any sales. It was so successful that I decided to take it a step further and do a “Sneak Attack,” where multiple buyers would “gang up” on an unsuspecting shop (that had few or no sales) and buy things at a given time. The idea caught on quick and in a few days we had already done four! So I started a web site

where all this could be coordinated and it has grown to this day. To date there have been 144 Sneak Attacks on a total of 233 shops, resulting in around 2700 sales!

The Sneak Team's one-year anniversary must be a pretty big deal; let our readers know about the promotions and celebrations going on in September! We’re very excited that the Sneak Attacks are still going strong after a year, so we are having a big party on our one year anniversary. We’ll get together in a thread in the Etsy forums (which will be announced on www.handmademovement.com) and party, and throughout the day there will be three giveaways, followed by a mega-giveaway in the evening. Over 15 Etsy sellers have contributed items towards this last giveaway so far, and the number continues to grow. Some other fun things are planned for that day, so make sure to stop by and have some fun. Once again, details will be found on the web site as that time draws closer.

Anything else to brag on? I’ve been featured in a number of juried publications, including Illustrators Annual, Communication Arts, Spectrum Fantastic Art and Luerzer’s Archive 200 Best Illustrators Worldwide.

What have I left out that you’d like to mention or talk about? Forget everything above; the best part about me is that I have a wonderful wife and three great kids. I feel very fortunate! If you made it this far, thanks for reading!

Thank you, Michael - I will "see" you for tomorrow's Sneak Attack! --- Stockannette

INCrowdteam Interview 9/12/09 - YOU?

Are you an INCrowdteam member? Want to let more people know about your Etsy shop(s)? Want to share some of your favorite Etsy shops with our blog readers? If you answered yes to these questions, and an interview with you has never appeared on the blog, then please click on my name below to send me an email so that I can send you some questions specifically tailored to you and your shop(s). I would love to feature your work here! Thank you.

Desperately Seeking Subjects,
Stockannette