INCrowdteam Interview, 2/28/09 - Lori Hadley, aka lochristine

There are a lot of jewelry-makers and jewelry-sellers on Etsy, that's for sure. Ever tried a search?!? But I must say, there is real distinction at lochristine's shop. I hope you read on, visit, and enjoy.


Where were you born & raised?
Fort Wayne, IN

Where are you now & what led you there?
I’m back in Fort Wayne, IN. I came back here after college to work for Lutheran Social Services and have stayed because I met my husband and inherited two beautiful step-daughters.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I create both sterling silver and copper jewelry. Many of my current creations also include an assortment of beads. However, I plan to shift away from the beads in the new year and focus solely on metals. I also have a welder that I’m dying to use. Stay tuned:)

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I am primarily a self-taught artist. I’ve never taken a jewelry or metal-smithing course, but have read a lot of books!

How'd you get started creating?
I come from a crafty sort of family. My mom was very creative when I was young and encouraged my sister and I to be the same. I’ve always been fascinated with jewelry and started creating different pieces long ago. I just wasn’t motivated to turn my jewelry into a business until I met my husband (ryanhadley.com). He is an all around inspiration – painter, tattoo artist, business owner, etc.

YUM! For those of us who are local or who like to road-trip, where do you have items on consignment?
My jewelry will soon be for sale at the Firefly Coffee House (3523 North Anthony Blvd., Fort Wayne, Indiana). I'm taking some items there next week so hopefully they'll be available in a week or two. I'm looking into other places to consign my jewelry, it's a goal for this year to get my work out there!

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Two main things:
Nature – I am constantly inspired by nature – the colors, objects, and sounds of it all
Music - I am completely uninspired to create things without some of my favorite folk tunes blasting in the background!

Do you belong to any Street Teams (other than the INCrowdteam)? If so, which ones and why?
FAM (Fabulous Artistic Moms) – I love to network with other creative moms
EtsyVeg – I’m a vegetarian and strong supporter of animal rights

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
Etsy is full of such a plethora of great items and talented artists. I am often inspired by other sellers items and love the feeling of satisfaction when I make a sale!

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
There are so many to choose from!!
1) TheCommonMilkweed - amazing rock hemp necklaces and woodworking
2) IreneSuchocki - stunning photography
3) Ellembee - great clothes
4) LeanDogPottery - fabulous pottery
5) CricketsCreations - amazing scarves

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Tan and Copper Dangles

Nature's Colors

Sterling Silver Spiral

Are you planning to sell at any art fairs or craft shows yet this year? If so, where and when?
No craft show plans yet. I know I'll be attending some, but I haven't decided which ones yet.

Anything else to brag about (shows, newspaper or magazine interviews)? Brag on!
Check out my blog for more information! http://lochristine.blogspot.com

Thanks so much! Let me know if you need anything else! - Lori
Uh, some of your stuff for FREE?!?!?! - Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 1/17/09 - Charles and Jeanette Cobb, aka ChuckEByrdWallArt

I had the best time shopping online before the holidays. I didn't spend anything, but I learned so much about many new INCrowdteam members. ChuckEByrdWallArt's pieces make me laugh most of the time, though some are just touching or awesome. Regardless, get to know this wonderful shop by reading what the co-proprietors have to say. They prefaced with this sweet note to me when they submitted their answers:

We feel very honored that you asked us to be interviewed for the INCrowdteam blog. "Chuck E. Byrd Wall Art" is the collaborative efforts of Chuck Cobb and wife Jeanette Savina Cobb. We work together in our studio in DeMotte, Indiana. Most folks only see the "Chuck" in Chuck E Byrd Wall Art, but without the "Jeanette" there would be no Chuck E. Byrd Wall Art. We are a team and therefore we filled out this questionnaire much like most everything else we do..."together." So here goes.

Where were you born & raised?
Chuck was born just across the state line in Illinois but raised in NW Indiana. Jeanette was born and raised in NW Indiana.

Where are you now & what led you there?
11 years ago we met on-line (Yahoo), met in person, fell in love, got married and Jeanette moved from Lowell Indiana to the house that Chuck built in DeMotte, Indiana, where we eventually built our studio/shop next to our home.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
Chuck E. Byrd Wall art is Vinyl Wall art creations for your home or business. Jeanette also has stores that sell Glass art such as Lampwork Beads and Jewelry etc. and a Paper craft store.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
Chuck, (an architectural woodworker) studied architectural drawing in school and is more symmetrical in designing his art work. Jeanette took formal classes in glass art and graphic design and has more of an abstract and geometrical flair to designing art.

How'd you get started creating?
We both come from creative families. Chuck, being a woodworker, made and sold wood crafts at arts fairs and craft shows and also tailored his talents toward building mostly custom furniture, cabinets and high-end commercial mill work. When we opened the glass studio and wood shop, Chuck leaned more toward glass etching and sandcarving in stone. Years earlier he bought his first vinyl cutting plotter to make signs for a company we previously owned. After joining a sign makers forum, and with the assistant of a few "masters of the industry" from that forum, he expanded his vectoring and designing skills. After a few years he was asked to assist in moderating that forum. With the skills he learned at that sign makers forum, and having a vinyl sign plotter, it opened the way to other things, such as making signs for other businesses and also to making interior vinyl wall art and wall sayings that seem to be very popular these days. We now run 3 plotters in our 1900 square foot shop/studio.

Jeanette creates many graphic designs for stained glass, glass fusing and paper crafts, and this is very helpful when it come to creating unique and custom designs in Vinyl wall art.

So how did we come up with "Chuck E. Byrd Wall Art"? In the architectural woodworking field, close bonds between co-workers/friends are created. Chuck was given a nickname by a co-worker who often bestowed animal nicknames to all his co-workers. Somehow, Chuck became, "Chuck E. Byrd", so much so that visitors to the shop thought his real last name was "Byrd." When trying to think of a name for our shop, Chuck wanted a name that was warm and whimsical to reflect the vinyl wall art that we create. Thus the name.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Chuck is inspired by the unusual and unique. Taking elements and ideas from several designs to make his own unique creations.

For Jeanette it's "Color". Having a Hispanic heritage, the need to see color in everything is just in the blood. When Jeanette sees a color combination she likes, she tries to incorporate it into her lampwork beads, or printed paper creations.

Do you belong to any Street Teams (other than the INCrowdteam)? If so, which ones and why?
Chuck belongs to the Design Style Guide team (interiordesignteam). Why? To expand in knowledge and design abilities, and to assist where he can.

Jeanette belongs to the Creative Glass Guild of Etsy team (CGGE). Why? To help where she can and get inspiration from fellow glass enthusiast.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
Since the competition is so great for the fields we're in, we get such a thrill that customers preferred our wares over the masses.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
TeriPersing A wonderful and talented lampwork artist in NW Indiana [ed. note: also a very popular INCrowder].
trolltracks A great polymerclay artist.
boxesbycarl Beautiful Bandsaw boxes.
jimjenkins510 Beautiful and very unique bandsaw boxes
timothyadamdesigns An artist that takes metal jewelry making to a higher level, and who is dedicated in helping the Etsy community though helpful marketing tutorials and tips.

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Hang in There Frogs - vinyl wall Decal Sticker- Plus Free Gift

Birds on a Wire

Birdcage Trio - Vinyl Wall Art Decals Graphics Stickers - PLUS FREE GIFT

Anything else to brag about (shows, newspaper or magazine interviews)? Brag on!
Jeanette was featured in Stained Glass News #59 on the front page with her Piano Rose Stained Glass panel and also in Aanraku Stained Glass Table Lanterns pattern book #4 as one of the contest winners for her design of Asian Moons stained glass table lantern.

After moderating the sign makers forum, Chuck realized that there was a need for a helpful forum for Glass/Stone etchers and sandcarvers. With the assistance of a very close friend (Ron Farmer of Atlanta GA) Chuck started a very helpful forum called Cutting Edge Sandcarving about 5 years ago. We now have more than 1650 members.

Thank you so much for asking us to be in the INCrowdteam's blog. Have a wonderful day.
Chuck and Jeanette Cobb

Well, thanks for your wonderful work, and for your membership in the INCrowdteam. You give us depth and make "incrowdteam" tag surfing on Etsy that much more fun.

Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 1/10/09 - Jo Ann Gallagher aka gallagj

Yet another fantastic newbie to the INCrowdteam is ready and willing to talk about her work. She has very elegant and unique pieces, so read on and enjoy...


Where were you born & raised?
I was born in Libertyville, IL and raised in Fulton, MO most of my childhood.

Where are you now & what led you there?
I live North of Indianapolis in Pendleton. My husband's company was bought out and his job relocated us here 21 years ago.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I sell beaded jewelry and just learned how to wire wrap. I will be adding new wire wrapped pieces soon. I also sell beads and findings.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I am self taught. I learned to do the wire wrap through a fellow Etsyian.

How'd you get started creating?
I bought a DIY jewelry kit and was hooked! I started trying new things and taught myself many new techniques.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
What turns on my creative light would be really beautiful beads. I find something I really fall in love with and build around that.

Do you belong to any Street Teams (other than the INCrowdteam)? If so, which ones and why?
No, this is the only Team I belong to.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
The excitement I get from selling an item and having the customer really love it. I love to see my buyers get excited by my work. I love the fact that people all across the country are wearing something I created. It makes me feel happy and excited to hear from my buyers that they really loved the piece they bought. I am a people person and love meeting all of these new people.

My 5 favorite shops on Etsy are:
studioseven
raevyn77
slidingalong
lvsbeadsnthings
CCSynopticvisions
These shops have lovely supplies and the sellers are awesome!

My 3 faves in my shop are:

Silver Plated Chunky Red Watch With Burgundy Teardrop Glass Pearls

18 Gauge Wire Wrapped Silvertone Green Beaded Ring

Plum Beautiful Bracelet with Pearls and Crystal Slide Spacer Beads

Anything to brag on?
I was featured in this seller's blog a couple of months ago: http://simplyraevyn.com/blog/. I was truly honored then too. I will not be doing my first show until Spring when the INCrowdteam puts theirs together.

Thank you again, Carolynn. I feel so happy that you feel my work worthy of this and I appreciate it so much!

Jo

Hey, Jo, of course it is!! All INCrowders are worthy, if I do say so myself.

INCrowd Interview, 1/3/09 - Rebecca aka vivavariety

A call to arms and a Georgian answers! I love it when folks really want to be interviewed. Here's vivavariety, a busy INCrowder with two shops and lots of style.


Where were you born & raised?
Lithonia, Georgia (20 mins from Altanta)

Where are you now & what led you there?
Indianapolis, IN. I had never moved away from home and my boyfriend grew up here so this is where I ended up!

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I have two shops. One is for my Blythe doll creations (glamourfae.etsy.com) and my other one (vivavariety.etsy.com) is a hodgepodge of things; stickers, knits, jewelry, book marks, cell phone charms, and gift tags. This is the shop that I am focusing on!

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I guess you could say I am "self taught". I've never taken any sort of crafting class. I've learned almost all I know from books, online, and other crafters. Like so many others, I taught myself how to knit from Stitch n Bitch!

How'd you get started creating?
When I was 18 I moved in with my insanely creative boyfriend. He's a writer and musician and was always working on something. I guess you could say I was a bit jealous of his creativity! So I began crafting to keep myself busy while he did his thing and now I would say I've become a little obsessed with it.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Hmmm... this is a tough one! I guess my muse would be fellow crafters. I love browsing Flickr and Etsy for inspiration. I also tend to lie in bed at night just thinking of new things to make. It actually helps me unwind.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
Just the INCrowdteam! I was unaware of Etsy street teams until I was invited to this one. It's a great way to meet fellow crafters and get your shop out there!

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
The excitement I get from selling an item and having the customer really love it.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
Gorjuss - I absolutely love her artwork!
Craft Pudding - Insanely adorable stamps!
Elsita - Really cool artwork and amazing felt brooches!
Hollypop Shop, now A Little Stranger - Super cute plushies!
Button Arcade - Lots of cute things and a fellow Blythe collector

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Black Swarovski Bow Necklace - Reserved for MorganAnnie

Felted Wrist Corset - ON SALE

Vintage Kid's Play Stickers - 1 1/2 inch circle stickers

Thanks, viva!!!

Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 12/20/08 - Allison Douglass aka craftgirlalli

Is that a "sale" critter I see? Why yes, it is! Alli has some really cute items for sale, and at the perfect time of year. No, it's NEVER too late (or too early) to shop for Kwanzaa, Hanukkah or Christmas!

Where were you born & raised?
Frankfort, IN

Where are you now & what led you there?
I'm in Lafayette. It's only about 25 minutes from my hometown. I'm here because I was tired of living in Frankfort (boring!) and because I work here.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I sell mostly kids room decor. Picture frames, wall pegs, that sort of thing. Around Christmas, I start working on ornaments and other seasonal decor. I also do birdhouses.

[Editor's Note: craftgirlalli has some outstanding Christmas Ornaments for sale right now!]

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
Well, it doesn't relate to it too much. I just graduated in May of 2008 from Ivy Tech for Web Management (basically web design). So, I guess on the computer side I can eventually make my own website outside of Etsy.

How'd you get started creating?
In Aug/Sept of 2007 my best friend introduced me to the idea. Then we tried a craft show in November and I've been hooked ever since.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Usually it's just whenever I get a new idea.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
The INCrowdteam and Etsymoms. I joined the INCrowdteam to get familiar with things happening locally, and Etsymoms...because I'm a mom!

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
Knowing that people like my work!

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
oh wow...this is hard!!
1. Wyles Style
2. Pink Lemonade Boutique Bags
3. DizzeeLizzee
4. Angelface Baby
5. Cookie Dough

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.
hmm...this is another hard one...but here it goes!

Angel Bird House

Star Wall Pegs

Reserved Listing for mommyto3cuties980407

Fab, Allison. Thanks so much, and enjoy the holidays!!

Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 12/13/08 - Sally Harless aka sadlyharmless

I couldn't figure out why ANYONE would want to call herself "sadlyharmless" until I found out that this week's interviewee's name is Sally Harless. At least it has roots in something other than low self-esteem! Her work makes me pensive and, occasionally, sad. It's haunting, though, and if you read on you'll learn more.

Where were you born & raised?
South Bend, Indiana

Where are you now & what led you there?
I moved to Bloomington in 2000 to go to school and then took a reeeeaallly long time to graduate. I went back to South Bend for awhile, but then came back to B-town cause I love it so much.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I sell drawings, paintings, and original prints. Some of the time these are put into fancy vintage frames, which I treasure-hunt for in thrift stores. My work combines images reminiscent of children's books with the struggles of adjusting to adulthood. I draw a lot of sad animals. And beards.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I got a BFA in printmaking from IU. I was really lucky to have professors who were open-minded and wanted us to explore whatever it was we were interested in, even if it wasn't printmaking. In my last year there, I started making wall pieces that pushed the boundaries of 2D, but weren't totally 3D. Those things have sort of become my passion, but I still make prints and also do a lot of ink and watercolor drawings.

How'd you get started creating?
When I was little, I used to copy drawings out of picture books. I didn't trace them, I just kind of re-drew them. I remember wanting to be an artist at a really young age, telling my mom that, and I remember her saying, "They make lots of money." I remember that made me really happy to hear her say that, but I think she was probably just trying to be encouraging, because I sure as heck don't make much money! My mom was really crafty, though, and I think that really instilled a deep DIY ethic in me. I have always wanted to just create things.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
My work is largely autobiographical. When I am at my emotional worst, that's when I come up with a lot of ideas. Making art is kind of my therapy. So I guess my muse is just taking the emotions I don't know what to do with, and turning them into something you can put on your wall. I also draw a lot of animals, and I think that's because I want my images to have a sort of child-like quality to them. I really love animals, so using them as my characters just makes a lot of sense. Lately I am drawing a lot of beards, and that sort of came about because I really like boys with beards. It's sort of a weird fetish I have, I guess.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I don't really belong to any street teams other than the INCrowdteam. If there were a beard-art street team, I would totally join it.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I love that I can reach such a huge audience with Etsy. And I just am pretty much in love with the whole IDEA of Etsy. That such an awesome thing exists kind of blows my mind.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
sadcrowsideshow
cordialkitten
ashleyg
esthercoombs
helis

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop:







I couldn't buy that last piece, Sally. It makes ME want to cry. Thanks so much!!

Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 11/22/08 - Talia Halliday aka conduitpress

I just love anything to do with books. We have a few makers of books in the INCrowd, and I really love Talia's stuff. So, without further ado, conduitpress...

Where were you born & raised?
I was born on an army base in Ft Hood, TX but by about six months of age my parents moved back to their home town, Marion, Indiana. They were young and in love, what ya gonna do? I lived there all my life in the same house for most of it as well. My parents actually just moved out of that house not too long ago and it was quite a sad ordeal. Oh the loss of childhood.

Where are you now & what led you there?
Bloomington, IN. My undergrad degree led me here, the friends that I met and the beautiful college town feel kept me here, my husband and children solidified my existence here. It's a wonderful place to call home and I'm incredibly happy to be able to raise a family in such a liberal, cultural, artsy town.

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop(s)?
Handmade books and handmade papers are my specialty. I really enjoy getting my hands dirty when making a book and knowing how it's put together. This is something I lost in photography when everything went digital as I used to be in the dark room all the time. I do sell some photography as well. I'm going to start selling a variety of notecards printed with either linocuts that I've designed or photographs. I also dabble in knitting, mostly baby items, but scarves and shawls as well. I've started creating some 1 inch pinback buttons, since I have some experience in graphic design I thought I would give it a go. To see your work in print is always a joy.


What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I don't have one really. I mean, I have an education and all, but not in fine art. I have a Bachelors in English and Creative Writing and am working on my Masters in Secondary Education/English Education. I suppose that by reading and writing as much as I do it allows my mind to creatively imagine a world outside of my own and thus create beautiful works of art that represent that world.

How'd you get started creating?
I caught the shutterbug from my maternal grandfather way back and from there it just kept going. I've always loved vintage cameras and photographs and typography, so it was a natural progression to get into bookmaking wherein you could put all of these things together. I took an 'Artist's Books' class in undergrad and that really opened my eyes to what was/is possible in the realm of books, and really, I've never looked back.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
My family. We're all a bunch of nerds really, and in that nerd-dom comes this creativity. Anything nerdy inspires me. Typography I find exceptionally nerdy and I love it. Computers and graphic design have a little bit of glamor, but they're incredibly nerdy as well. And yet, I say that, but most of my creations are laid out in very natural forms taken away from the computer, so maybe that's what it is. Because my life is so overtaken by technology I really try to bring a little bit of nature back into it. After all, I do specialize in real handmade books, an art form that a lot of people don't even touch anymore, they just read the computer screen instead.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
This one, the INCrowd of course- because as much as I hated Indiana growing up, and always wanted to escape, this is my home. Bloomington is my home. And I really want to support local artists because I would love for them to support me as well. Like Elton John (and Simba) says, it's a circle of life (imagine me singing that while you read this-- ok, maybe not).

I also belong to BEST (bookbinding etsy street team) for obvious reasons;) I'm a bookbinder silly.


What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I really like the variety of items you can find on Etsy. I love the culture and the point of view you can find outside of yourself. So yes, I sell on Etsy, but I sort of sell on Etsy in order to be able to buy on Etsy. It's a vicious cycle.


Recommend your favorite shops on Etsy.
I really don't know that I've been here long enough to have many fave shops, but I'll try. I'm still a relative newbie to these parts.

1. artandghosts - I feel like I'm in a dream in these paintings, a not so good dream, but a not so bad dream either. Somehow a mix of The Shining and Donnie Darko
2. RaspberryBaby - I love love love babywearing and these wraps look gorgeous- and I just ordered my first one last week. I can't wait to get it :)
3. LewasDesigns - really, wall decals are sooo popular right now, but I love little trees with no leaves and really, there's nothing better
4. Feywood - She (they) are from my area and I've seen her work and I Love it. I own two pieces and I love fairies.

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Beetles and Ribbon - Large(r) Blank Journal

Letter (Im)pressed - Lined Journal

Typecast Album - Blank

INCrowd Interview, 11/15/08 - Nicole, aka portablegreen

Look! Another newbie!!! It's very exciting to me that we are growing at such an amazing rate. Here's the story of a lovely lady called portablegreen:

Where were you born & raised?
Louisville born, Kentuckiana raised!

Where are you now & what led you there?
same place, living life close to family!

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
Custom items, vintage items, jewelry, just a lot of different things.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I have a degree in business management and marketing, pretty much relates to having my own little hobby spot on Etsy.

How'd you get started creating?
I've been making things since I could hold a pair of scissors or a crayon. It's in my blood, I must create, it just feels right and it's definitely part of my calling in life. Sewing, jewelry, scrapbooking, anything and everything in between, I've made items from full size Halloween props to little earrings to match my outfits for any occasion.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Reading, fashion, nature, just the everyday types of things in my life, my boyfriend inspires me, my family does as well.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I belong to the INCrowdteam 'cause I'm a Hoosier and I'm a part of the Christian Artists Street Team (CAST) because I came to know Christ early in life and wanted to be a part of the Christian crafters.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
It's easy, it's fun, it helps you earn a little hobby cash and it's fulfilling to see your items online.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
mootsie
missbrache
kneehighsnpigtails
clearcutcrafts2007
damselinthisdress

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Custom Apron Personalized for you by Portable Green

Custom Tote Personalized for you by Portable Green

8 Custom Note Cards Personalized for You by Portable Green

Thanks, Nicole!!

INCrowd Interview, 11/8/08 - Nicole aka Balsam

I always find myself browsing the bath and body section on Etsy, and I have figured out why! The good ones always look so yummy and delicious, like they are edible little treats! There are so many talented soap makers, and one of them is our own INCrowder, Nicole aka Balsam. Check her out!

Where were you born & raised?
born in Indy, raised here and in New Mexico

Where are you now & what led you there?
We live just southwest of Indy near Mooresville. Family ties and work brought us here. Work is good.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I mostly sell bath and body products, but I also enjoy making brooches and hair accessories in my second shop, Accessoire. A good portion of brooches sold go across the pond, I guess I'm trendy in London. ;)

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I worked for many years as a cake decorator. I also would paint murals and decorative pieces. Those areas help tremendously when planning soaps and brooches from an artistic viewpoint.

How'd you get started creating?
I'm not sure I can remember when it all started, since I could hold a crayon, at least. If I'm not creating, I'm not happy. I don't function well if I'm not in the process of planning or making something. It's my therapeutic medium.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why? If not, why not?
I do! I have 3 street teams I'm a part of. The INCrowd was my first team, since I live in Indy, it just was an easy choice, and I'm honored they accepted me. Also, because of my bath and body background, I'm a part of the SoaperStars Team. It's full of a great bunch of soapmakers that make up THE best bath and body products on this planet. The Goon Team is a distinguished bunch of lads and lasses that frequent the Something Awful forums and even though they might have stairs in their homes, they are protected. ;)

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
Soap!! It is my passion! Not only that, I feel I've formulated a superb product. I wouldn't sell if I didn't. =)

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
Only 5?!?! ...ok, ok.
amandalouise
jnicdesigns
morelle
dalidecals
MyHandboundBooks

And three of your beloveds from your own shop?
Here's 3 photos for you, my faves!

This one will be renamed "Dead Sea Spa" when relisted in the next week or so.
Psst...it is also being featured in the Indianapolis Monthly special edition Shops Magazine coming out on newsstands next month. =)



For this one, Myth, I just love the essential oil blend. It's peppery and bright, just intoxicating!


This next one is a best seller, Neroli Chamomile. Just a lovely orange blossom fragrance.



Again, thanks Amber!

INCrowd Interview, 11/1/08 - aka EarthApology

We've got a relative newbie with a real feel for the beauty of the Earth and her produce, folks!! Dig what earthapology has to say:

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
My shop is Earthapology - JEWELRY WITH A PURPOSE. I make handmade, beaded necklaces and braceletes with the power and energy of gemstones and crystals you program and activate to your unique outcome and desire.

How'd you get started creating?
I have always loved jewelry and being creative. A friend turned me onto gemstones and how to manifest them to help you achieve your desires. Soon I was reading every book I could about crystals and stones and visiting every metaphysical store in sight! Not long after I took a beading class and fell in love! Soon all my family and friends were interested and wanting jewelry and education on how they can incorporate crystals into their lives.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Music. I can’t just say, “I will go make a piece of jewelry.” I need to get in the mode and turning on music always does the trick. I listen to lots of jam bands, indie rock, classic rock-my list goes on and on…

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
Other than the INCrowdTeam? No, but I would love too. Put that on my list of things to look into….

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
The networking and all the amazing and creative people out there…

Show us the three best items in your shop:

I Heart the Planet

Orange-e-luscious Carnelian Necklace (sold)

HOW CUTE Black and White Necklace for LUCK (sold)

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
Too many, how to pick just 5???
PinkPosieDesigns – I love all her adorable and fun bags and frames!
SincearJewelry – most unique hand threaded earrings
stephaniegibson – her chunky designs are so cool
AspenSpa – love, love the amazing sugar and salt scrubs
northmountaincandles – yummy diffusers and candles

Anything else to add?
I am a newer seller and still working on building up an on-line inventory. So any help and referrals are appreciated! I love my pieces and know you will too!

THANKS!!!! And remember...wake up each day with a smile, anything is possible today!

Oh, alright. Thanks!!

Carolynn

INCrowd Interview, 9/27/08 - Lydia Kay, handpickedbylydia

First, I apologize for the re-post...I was out of internetland for a month and couldn't finish formatting before this went up. Sorry! Otherwise...You know, we don't focus much on our vintage sellers. It's easier to pin down the basics of a creator, but those with an eye for the vintage are no less creative! I decided to see what handpickedbylydia had to tell us about her side of the tracks:

Where were you born & raised?
Evansville, Indiana

Where are you now & what led you there?
I'm still here in Evansville!
What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
I sell mainly vintage but there's a couple handmade clothes that may pop-up every once in awhile.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
Well I'm getting ready to start college actually. But I haven't declared my major yet so that is yet to be determined I guess.

How'd you get started creating?
Well, when I was little I used to steal little scraps of my mother's fabric and hand sew little pillows and make clothes for my Barbies. And as far as my love for vintage, I would credit that to my father. He was the one who introduced me to TV Land when I was younger, and I just loved there outfits!
What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
I'd have to say old movies and TV shows. Although sometimes I'll just be sitting at work and I'll get an idea.
Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
Right now I only belong to 2; this one and the Christian Artist Street Team (CAST). I joined the INCrowd team because I wanted to see what people in my own state were creating. And I joined CAST because I wanted to see what fellow Christians were making. I love the idea of teams, I think they're a great way to communicate and support others.
What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
Well, I used to sell on Ebay and it was just a mess, all those auctions! So I like Etsy's set-up a lot better.
Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
1. necessityisthemother
2. nstylevintage
3. cordialkitten
4. salvagelife
5. GreyBrocket

Since you're a vintage seller and we haven't really profiled one before, I think I'd like to throw in a few more questions:

Do you wear a lot of vintage yourself?
Yes, my everyday wardrobe consists mainly of vintage, handmade, and thrift store gems.

Do you have a favorite era or type of vintage item (skirts, ties)?
Well right now I just love the 60's, there was so much going on style-wise! But I've always adored vintage dresses, they're all so unique!

What is it about an item that catches your eye?
The first two things that grab my attention are the waistline and the fabric. I'm sucker for anything with an empire waist and good floral print!

Show us three of your store's best items:

70s Vintage Colorful Purse/Market Bag

Revamped Vintage Navy Blue Polka Dot Dress

Vintage Blue and White Gingham Dress

Thanks so much Lydia, and keep on keeping on!

Carolynn aka nilochlainn, schwa, wolfgangzehen, serenityservices and recoverandlive

INCrowd Interview, 9/20/08 - Marianne Able aka alteredartist

Marianne is all about the paper. She's a relative newbie to the INCrowd, and I thought it was high time that she get the word out on our blog. So, even though this blog is virtual and NOT on paper, here is Her Exquisiteness, alteredartist:

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

Where are you now & what led you there?
I know a good thing when I see it! I still live in Indianapolis, IN.

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop(s)?
I love all kinds of paper crafting, but for purposes of my Etsy shop, I create paper art dolls and altered boxes. There is a somewhat limited need for these items, but making them serves my creative needs.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I have a degree in Literature which has absolutely no relation to my work!

How'd you get started creating?
My mother was very creative and taught me to enjoy making things myself. I used to make all my own clothes, and although I don’t sew very much any more, I find that making the art dolls is satisfying in the same sort of way. I envision a doll and her outfit and create both.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
I love beautiful paper the same way I used to love beautiful cloth. The patterns on the paper inspire me and give me many of my ideas.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I am proud to belong to 2 great Etsy teams: INCrowd and EtsyFOLK. I feel privileged to be counted among the artists that are members of these groups.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I love the ease with which you can create a shop and make your wares available to interested parties. I have always wanted to be able to show my work to others and this is the perfect medium to do so. I recently sold a doll to a lovely customer in Brisbane, Australia! This would never have happened without Etsy.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
So many from which to choose! I LOVE the following shops:

thompsondesigns
budanart
jellybeans
mincingmockingbird
sugarsusan

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Fabulous Flapper Art Paper Doll

Sun Worshipper Art Paper Doll

Can You Measure Your Friendship Altered Treasure Box

INCrowd Interview, 9/13/08 - Lia aka omglia

Cute and bright and fun. That's the vibe I got off of this one when she first joined the INCrowd. Check out her shop and you'll see...my instincts were right. Her work is whimsical and smart-alecky, somewhat obsessed with South Park...much like the real Lia. But don't take my word for it...

Where were you born & raised?
Louisville, KY

Where are you now & what led you there?
I'm going to IU-Bloomington because of the top-notch business school there, and because it's not too far away!

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
Plastic jewelry and accessories, and magazine wallets.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I don't think I have any educational background in anything I do. But I'm majoring in Apparel Merchandising and minoring in Business so I'm going to GET some! haha.

How'd you get started creating?
I've been making various crafts for as long as I can remember. I dabbled in everything from knitting to soapmaking. I finally stumbled upon jewelry when I was 16 and got my ears pierced - during the process of changing over my clip-ons to hooks, I found myself altering the earrings to make them look cooler. Then I turned all of my necklaces into earrings! The rest is history ;)

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
Pretty colorful things. Any time I see something colorful and pretty I feel like creating something. Luckily, my bead stash is quite colorful!

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I belong to the INCrowd Team and the DIY Scene Team. I think street teams are a wonderful way to promote as a group and individually!

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I love the community and the wonderful advice from the forums. I feel like I've completed a course or two in business already just from all the knowledge I've picked up from other sellers here!

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
http://loveandasandwich.etsy.com
http://imyourpresent.etsy.com
http://talkproof.etsy.com
http://pinkhellokitty.etsy.com
http://postlapsaria.etsy.com (and yes I typed those all from memory.)
[n.b.: that's why I left them long like that Lia...you seem so proud!]

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.