The Eclectic Studio

What I bought for Christmas!!

2009-01-06T10:34:00.007-05:00

Boy, has it been awhile since my last post. I'm such a bad, bad girl!!!

So, I figure it's safe to show you all what I had purchased off Etsy as Christmas presents....seeing that Christmas has passed!!

Peek-a-boo Metallic earrings by Thre eFiveEightyFive

Glowie the Glow Worm by Ozarknana

Rose Blossom Beaded Scarf by RumahKampung

Polymer Clay Giraffe Pin by Knitsandbits

Tattoo Sea Turtle Shirt by phippsart

(2) Star Wars Recycled Notebook by lulumagoo

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-10T10:21:00.001-05:00

two words only...I'm hungry!

Our Christmas Card

2008-12-09T11:04:00.001-05:00

This is the first time we are sending a photo Christmas Card and it's also the first time my 6 yo son ever made a snowman. In fact, the last time he saw snow was when he was three and he really doesn't remember it. We moved to NC on his 4th birthday and there's no snow there!! LOL!! So, imagine his excitement when he woke up the other morning and there was snow on the ground!! "SNOW. Mama, it snowed!" he yelled from downstairs. Music to my ears!!

New Stuff

2008-11-24T12:54:00.000-05:00

I have been super busy taking photos, editing photos and listing items in my Etsy Shop. So, I thought I would show ya real quickly what I've added!

Confetti Scarf

Blue Dichroic Earrings

Psychedelic Note Cards

Loopy Lu Scarf

Feature Friday

2008-11-21T08:50:00.002-05:00

It's time for word association. I'll start......

egg - scrambled
dinner - lunch
cold - snow
fire - hot

And when I say hot, I mean hot...especially when talking about today's featured Etsy shop...Tracy of PolishedTwo! Actually, to be completely honest, the first word that comes to mind when I look at her shop is HAPPY! Her designs are so bright, cheerful & colorful. Her pieces look almost effortless, like it is second to breathing to put these colors & beads together.

She certainly has a signature style and her pottery shards are no exception. They are beautiful ancient and replica Ming/Ching Dynasty shards that have beautiful images on them. She uses traditional Czech Republic glass beads to wood, brass, pewter, semiprecious stone, resin, porcelain, copper, and shell to re-iterate time after time her whimsical designs.

In addition to her jewelry (which includes EVERYTHING necklaces, earrings, bracelets & rings) she also makes bobby pins that are one-of-a-kind. These truly show her fun & whimsical style for sure!

From personal experience, Tracy is one of the most accommodating people you will meet. Treat yourself to some wonderful jewelry and swing by her shop. I'm sure you will pick up some great goodies as Christmas gifts (and I bet you'll end up getting something for yourself too!).

You are officially forewarned, anything you wear from PolishedTwo WILL be noticed and people WILL be stopping you to compliment your piece of jewelry. Happens to me all the time when I wear her Yarn Ball earrings (see picture above)!!

Wordless Wednesday, but it's Thursday??

2008-11-20T11:04:00.001-05:00

Well, this just goes to show you how messed up with the days I am! I just posted this picture as my Wordless Wednesday. One problem...it's Thursday. This just means that I am behind on so many other things...what did I do yesterday? As my mother would say...Oi Vey!!

So, I'm just gonna throw caution to the wind and do my Wordless Wednesday anyway. Make a girl happy and just play along with me!!

Wordless Wednesday

Tuesday Treasure!

2008-11-18T10:14:00.005-05:00

I consider myself a pretty crafty person. Jewelry, photography, glass and knitting are my specialties...so when I purchased my sewing machine a couple of years ago I thought "no sweat". I daydreamed about all the handbags, pillows, etc. I would be designing. I even bought books to guide me with designs. So, why is my sewing machine sitting on my bench collecting dust you ask? Because I couldn't even thread the sucker. I was/am a complete lost cause!!

However, Fashion Designer Mary Anne Lagana is not! Her style is fun, colorful and one of a kind. Her specialty is designing beautiful coats (great for this time of the year may I add). This one is my favorite. I love the animal print with the orange accent....very mod and fresh.

But, she doesn't only design coats. She has apparel for girls and women alike. Sweatshirts, long sleeve shirts, yoga tanks and skirts. They all display her creativity with mixing and matching vintage and textured fabrics. This cupcake sweatshirt is a perfect example - how cute!! Any young girl would think this is the best top ever.

And look at the pointed edge on this skirt...so flirty!

Stop by Mary Anne's Etsy shop and let her make a unique one-of-a-kind piece of clothing for you!

Feature Friday

2008-11-14T13:07:00.001-05:00

Ah, it's Friday...the week has flown by!! Time for my second Feature Friday.

I remember when autumn began sneaking around the corner. Temperatures dropped just a bit, trees started changing colors and the heat was turned on for the first time since February ! Well, forget Autumn 'cause Winter is sneaking up on us fast. The leaves have all fallen, the heat is on all the time now and we are beginning to bundle up to keep warm outside. What? You've been wearing the same scarf and gloves for a couple of years now? Well, do not fear because MABS Crochet is here (all right, a bit cheesy but you get my drift)!

MABS Crochet features handmade housewares and clothing items by two fabulous women. In their own words "We're crazy for crochet, we're addicted to yarn. If we're not crocheting or buying yarn, chances are we're talking about crocheting or buying yarn. In short, we're in love with our crochet, and we hope you will fall in love with our crochet, too."

This is my favorite - partially because of the name (as I live in NC) but mostly definitely because of the style and color combo. It looks like it will keep you toasty warm!

And I love the colors in this clutch - so vibrant and fun!

Housewares, Purses, Children's Apparel, Scarves, Ponchos and more all at MABS Crochet. If you would like items made for a gift, or perhaps you would like them to be involved in a non-profit cause, you can contact them here.

BOGO Sale!!!

2008-11-13T11:19:00.000-05:00

******Buy one set of Photo Note Cards, get the second 50% OFF******

That's 12 cards (6 in each set) for $18! Christmas cards are 20 cards for $22.50!
FREE SHIPPING ON EVERY ORDER
Mix-n-Match discount will be taken off the lesser priced item

All photos were taken by moi...flowers, Italy, nature and more!! They are digital photos printed on matte white heavyweight
card stock and packaged in a cellophane sleeve.

They are blank on the inside and can be used individually:

Birthday ** Thank you ** Get Well ** Sympathy ** Thinking of you

Or perhaps give a set as a gift :
House Warming Gift
Teacher's Gifts for Teacher Appreciation Day, Christmas, End-of-School
Hostess Gift
Birthday Gift

Ways to order:

1) Go to my Etsy Shop and put "BOGO50" in notes to seller - I will send a revised invoice to your Paypal or RME account.
2) Send me an e-mail and let me know what you would like to purchase and how you will be paying; Money Order or Check

(All orders will ship upon receipt of cleared payment)

Feature Friday

2008-11-07T11:47:00.004-05:00

TGIF everyone! Today is a great Friday...it's sunny, 75 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. Today also marks the beginning of Feature Friday where every Friday I will bring a wonderful business to you.

Since this is the first, I thought it was fitting to begin with somebody whom I met a few months ago when I joined her Yahoo group, Unique Women in Business. Her name is Erin and she is one of the most supportive, nice and fun people that I know. Who better to kick off this new series with!!

Erin has recently been promoted to Director for a company called Pink Papaya. They began in 2004 offering the highest quality spa products with three wonderful product lines: aromatherapy, using 100% pure essential oils; body & bath, made with luxurious scents and botanical extracts; and skincare, fusing science with nature.
I've used their Body Wash and it is fabulous.....I have Ocean and it smells so fresh and clean. The best part - a little goes a long way. Just a dab...a dab will do ya!!!

I just ordered some items from their newest line of make-up and I can't wait to try them!!

To find out more about purchasing this product, hosting a spa party or perhaps a career that has the potential to offer you flexibility, recognition & team support you may contact Erin here. TRUST me, you won't be disappointed.

(REPOST) Want to Network and make sales?

2008-10-27T12:20:00.002-05:00

If you are a woman with a great business to share, you MUST check out this Yahoo Group I belong to called Unique Women in Business. http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/Unique-women-in-buisness/.

We consist of a group of 85+ women who have started our own business whether it is handmade, direct sales, or even a boutique. We are supporting each other by purchasing products from each other all around the US. Bath & Body, Candles, Make-Up, Clothes, Jewelry, Art, Baby Items, Health items, and the list goes on.

My own personal experience has been wonderful....we help each other with marketing, promoting & website ideas. The commradre is like no other I have ever seen. We know about each other's families and going-ons of our lives. We TALK to each other and we LISTEN to each other. Plus, we just have a lot of fun!!

We have a Blog & a Myspace page....check them out!

Now, the logistics.....upon joining you will need to make a purchase from the person who referred you to the group (which, in this case would be me), then you will be free to advertise your company and promote your items and a photo album will be created allowing you to download pics for shoppers to see. No minimun purchase just as long as it is something you want!!! Then you will have to make a monthly purchase to stay active in the group, does not matter who you purchase from or what dollar amount you purchase!! Since, Christmas is right around the corner..this is a great way to see new items and get great ideas!!

Come by and check it out.....just tell Erin (the site owner) that I sent ya!!

One Hour

2008-10-13T11:24:00.002-05:00

One hour...that's all it lasted. I love it when it only lasts for one hour. It's only happened once before...a LONG time ago. Why can't it only last one hour for everything?

Listed this scarf the other day at 4 and it sold at 5! "HOORAY" I thought as I danced around the computer. Every sale gets the Happy Dance but the One Hour sale is the Super Happy Dance moment in life. Dancing, singing and arms flaring around is usually what happens...but this has only happened once before so I guess there is no specific Super Happy Dance decided just yet.

Although, with your help I think I can come up with a specific SHD today. Just listed this scarflette about 30 mins ago so there are 30 mins left. We'll see.......

Unique Women In Business

2008-10-10T16:30:00.001-05:00

If you are a woman with a great business to share, you MUST check out this Yahoo Group I belong to called Unique Women in Business. http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/Unique-women-in-buisness/

We consist of a group of 85+ women who have started our own business whether it is handmade, direct sales, or even a boutique. We are supporting each other by purchasing products from each other all around the US. Bath & Body, Candles, Make-Up, Clothes, Jewelry, Art, Baby Items, Health items, and the list goes on.

My own personal experience has been wonderful....we help each other with marketing, promoting & website ideas. The commradre is like no other I have ever seen. We know about each other's families and going-ons of our lives. We TALK to each other and we LISTEN to each other. Plus, we just have a lot of fun!!

Now, the logistics.....upon joining you will need to make a purchase from the person who referred you to the group (which, in this case would be me), then you will be free to advertise your company and promote your items and a photo album will be created allowing you to download pics for shoppers to see. No minimun purchase just as long as it is something you want!!! Then you will have to make a monthly purchase to stay active in the group, does not matter who you purchase from or what dollar amount you purchase!! Since, Christmas is right around the corner..this is a great way to see new items and get great ideas!!

Come by and check it out.....just tell Erin (the site owner) that I sent ya!!

My newest

2008-10-04T17:46:00.002-05:00

Hello all!! Just a quick Saturday post telling you what my two newest items are. I guess you can say that I have Christmas on my mind! And, I've even started my Christmas shopping...I love it when I start early! In fact, all items have come from Etsy...so I think that is what tomorrow's post will be. In the meantime....

These are my new Christmas Wine Charms. Perfect as a hostess gift for a holiday party or even if you like to give parties!

These are my Pear Christmas Cards, Set of 10. I thought pears would be a welcomed addition to my growing collection of Christmas Cards.

I hope everybody is have a great Weekend thus far!

Autumn is in the air!!

2008-10-03T06:43:00.002-05:00

Summer is my least favorite month.....it's hot and sticky and sweaty, high electric bills (due to it being hot and sticky so much so that I can't even sit on my couch w/o sticking to it if the AC isn't on), sand all throughout my car, children home from school for 2 months (not just my own child...but all the neighborhood kids) which leads to arguments, fights, me yelling.

Winter is my 2nd least favorite month. It's just too darn cold....can't put the heat on 75 all the time because we can just bundle up to save on the electric bill (so my husband thinks), stuck in my cold house 'cause of ice storms, school closings. The only part of Winter I like is Christmas. I get SO excited wrapping gifts, putting them under the tree after my son falls asleep and then watching him see the presents for the first time is just magical.

Autumn......right in the middle. Fresh brisk air..not too cold...so windows can be open and the air can penetrate my senses! The colors of autumn are soothing and comforting, Autumn is when I begin making my homemade chicken soup & pumpkin pies & cream of wheat. There's Halloween, Thanksgiving....and, Autumn is when I begin my Christmas shopping in preparation for my favorite holiday.

My favorite season? Spring! But I'll wait until Spring comes to tell you why I love this season so.

Spammers....please just GO AWAY

2008-09-27T07:05:00.003-05:00

No I don't need a cheap car or a car loan nor a blackberry, and I certainly am not looking for a hot single so I don't want to meet anywhere or look at pictures, I don't need a checking account, nor do I need money for tuition, forget about grants..don't need it, not looking for the ultimate pet nail trimmer, credit score...no thank you, don't want the WalMart gift card..or the Target one for that matter, really not interested in who's looking for me, and although I do need to lose weight...I don't need to be reminded every 5 minutes.

and that's just the tip of the iceberg!

Lovlies for your ears!!

2008-09-26T07:12:00.002-05:00

My favorite thing in this world (next to my family, of course) is a fun pair of earrings. I very rarely wear bracelets and only wear necklaces on special occasions.....but I am ALWAYS wearing a pair of earrings. Glass, Silver, beaded....you name it, I'll wear it!!

So, of course I have alot of favs on Etsy....and here they are

Fizz Earrings by curlygirlglass

Sakura Earrings by insanejellyfish (I just love that name!)

Kamil Earrings by Sproutonline

Falling Leaves by maggiejs

Jazz/Alma embroidered & beaded earrings by NAadornment

Arata Double Earrings by yellowplum

Tree Earrings by SarahHoodJewelry

Please check out all of these shops 'cause they all have some pretty spectacular pieces to share with you!

I want to decorate my home!!

2008-09-18T08:48:00.005-05:00

But, I can't. But, if I could, I would sooooooooo buy these wonderful items to beautify by surroundings.

This print by Marni Mutrux Studio would go perfectly in my bedroom!! I just love it! Please stop by her shop - her work is gorgeous!!

This fused glass tile wall hanging is full of color and it just makes me happy!! The artist who made this beauty is Hipnest and, believe me, her shop is very hip! I think this piece would look nice in my studio.

The next item is a set of coasters. I think they would look great in my living room. Rubee Designs makes these and her selection is HUGE! I just love them....they will make great christmas gift for mom!

And the last item that I don't know if I will be able to live without is this beautiful print by K9 Art Gallery. My kitchen is Tuscan themed, so perhaps above my breakfront this would go!! If you like animals, definitely stop by his gallery - he is just so talented!

And I think that's it for now...next post will be items to beautify my earlobes! I have alot in my favs for that!! Stay tuned!

Win a Set of My Cards!!

2008-09-17T05:43:00.003-05:00

The most fab street team in the world (which I belong to) is having a giveaway!! The giveaway is a set of my photo notecards...purple theme. A set of 6 cards....they are blank on the inside - perfect for birthdays, thank-you's or just to let somebody special know you are thinking of them!

All you have to do is visit my shop, pick your favorite item, go to the EtsyGreetings blog and post in comments the item and your e-mail or shop name. But hurry, it ends at 6 am tomorrow EST (9/18). So....go....hurry.....watcha waiting for???

Networking.....hmmm......does it work?

2008-09-15T20:34:00.004-05:00

So, a few months ago I decided to give this whole networking thing a try. I joined a Yahoo group, started twittering (or is it tweeting?), blogging on a more consistent basis here and on MySpace...even have done some bulletins on Myspace (never had done that before), joined IndiePublic, joined Start up biz.com, posted my shop to Linkreferral and today I opened a booth on Bonanzle. That's alot, right? Oh, and I've been listing new items in my shop on a more consistent basis too.

Do you know how much time goes into networking, advertising, marketing....whatever you prefer to call it??? TOO MUCH! Oh my lord, I can spend the entire day just on the computer updating, informing, advising.....before you know it, my son is home from school and I feel like I've gotten absolutely nothing accomplished.

How successful will all this time on the computer be? This is what I ask myself on a daily basis. Now, I must add that my views and "hearts" have seriously increased..but no sales. I am hopeful that they will come back and purchase for the holiday season.

Honestly, the funny thing is that I started all this networking hoping to make sales, but the reality is that I have made alot of friends. Especially in my Yahoo Group, Unique Women in Business. Such a fun bunch of ladies who sell so many different things. We've really grown very close, sharing things about each other and really uniting. Ugh, that reminds me.....we're doing a weight loss challenge and I have to weigh in tomorrow morning. ICK!

So, here is where you can find, follow, visit me:

Etsy: http://www.theEclecticstudio.etsy.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/theeclecticstudio
Twitter: eclecticstudio
Bonanzle: http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/TheEclecticStudio
IndiePublic: http://www.indiepublic.com/profile/SandraWilliams
startupbiz: http://www.sta.rtup.biz/profile/Sandy56
Unique Women In Business: http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/Unique-women-in-buisness/ (if you decide to join, tell them Sandy sent ya)

Stop by and say hi and let's be friends!!!

EtsyGreetings Giveaway!!!!

2008-09-11T06:50:00.002-05:00

Come on by the new & improved EtsyGreetings blog!!

Right now, there is a great card giveaway featuring HappyDayStudio. Her cards are bright, whimsical and just fun.

Just leave a comment on the blog and you can possibly win these cards

Good Luck!!

Christmas in September?

2008-09-06T06:36:00.004-05:00

I know...it's usually Christmas in July, but I didn't get my act together until the other day!

Listed my Christmas cards the other day in my shop.

Now, they are currently listed in packs of 6 but I'm wondering how many would rather have packs of 10 or 12??? If you would like to let me know which you prefer, I would be very much appreciative!!!

Vendor Blender Tonight - Reminder

2008-09-05T15:06:00.002-05:00

Tonight is my friends Vendor Blender. She is hosting this party in a chat room....it starts at 5:00 pm and will run through the evening. Each 1/2 hr is featured by a different seller..the schedule is:

5-5:30-Beautiful Diva

5:30-6-Mineral Girlz Cosmetics

6-6:30-Longaberger Baskets

6:30-7-Gold Canyon Candles

7-7:30-MeMe' s Country Store

7:30-8-Shake Your Bon Bons

8-8:30-Simply Tempted

8:30-9-Eclectic Studio

9-9:30-Avon

9:30-10-Mrs Charming

Come on by and visit (or purchase....wink,wink) and learn about each product these vendors have! Some vendors will be giving away prizes during their time slot!!!
http://pub41. bravenet. com/chat/ show.php/ 3505945080

Hope to see you there!!

Do you promote YOUR Etsy shop?

2008-09-04T15:51:00.005-05:00

I just came across this most awesome site Scrumpy Designs. The theory behind this site? They will help you promote YOUR Etsy shop. When you register you can set-up:

A profile picture (or your avatar)
Your Shop Description
Your Sales and Promotions
Your Etsy Mini
Your Etsy Items
Your Contact Info
Your Links such as other shops, blogs, flickr

They have an Etsy Showcase where you can view all the Etsy Minis signed up AND you can view all the Etsy Items or "Ads" by clicking on the Etsy Items section on their main page. I've been on this site for the past hour.....because...they also have a blog page. If you like to read blogs then you must visit their Links section and then hit blogs. Totally unbelievable. Love it!

Do you Trade?

2008-09-04T12:32:00.002-05:00

I am no longer a trading virgin!! And, for my first trade...it is a GREAT one!

When I was approached by GoatsDesign's seeing if I would be interested in trading, well, she just made my day. I took a look at her shop and LOVED it.

What she is getting from me:

Trailing African Daisy Notecards, Set of 6

And what I am getting from her: Brown Sugar Pomegrante Scrub with Strawberry Seeds

and

Raspberry Lip Balm

I can't wait to get my delicious goodies!!

Just Joined Indiepublic!!

2008-08-25T15:21:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to have joined Indiepublic.....I am so looking forward to meeting other crafters/artists and seeing all the wonderful mediums they have to offer.

In case you are not familiar with Indiepublic (as I was not until recently), Indiepublic is an independent art and design community. It is a great way to meet other artists, share your wares, join groups that revolve around your craft and in the midst of all this make friends. So, if you're an artist, designer, retailer, blogger, then I would definitely check out Indiepublic.

If you are already a member, please stop by my page and we can become friends.

See you there!

Sandy

Flowers, Flowers and more Flowers....

2008-08-18T15:50:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I knit, make jewelry and dichroic glass but it seems that I have thrown myself into my photography. So much so that I'm thinking of making my Etsy shop entirely photography related items only. Hmmm....this is something that I have to think long and hard.

In the meantime, I'd love to show you my latest listings:

These are my Orange Iris cards

and my Italian Bed & Breakfast cards.

Some other pics that I have yet to list are my

Marigold and another flower that I, honestly, do not know the name of (have to ask the hubby).

And that's what I did today!!

And the winner is.......

2008-08-02T07:08:00.002-05:00

Tiffany Johnson!! Hooray!!!

Tiffany is the proud winner of a 6 pk of notecards AND a pair of earrings.

Picking the winner was a very scientific process. It involved a pen, a piece of paper, an easter basket and a 6 yr old boy. Okay, well it wasn't so scientific but you would have thought my son was picking a million dollar lotto winner! We had alot of fun!!

Speaking of fun, we, Tammy and I, had a great time promoting this giveaway and we are so happy with the response and entries. Thank you so much to everybody who took the time from their busy schedules to look at our shops and enter our giveaway.

Have a wonderful weekend!

My First Giveaway Contest!!

2008-07-28T12:43:00.003-05:00

As I've posted here before, two Etsy Street Teams, JET and EtsyGreetings, have collaborated for the month of July with a Business Buddy program.

My Business Buddy has been Tammy of ArtMadeByTammy. What started as two strangers working together to promote each other's businesses, has turned into a friendship that I know will continue even after this program. What better way to end this wonderful promotion then by having a fabulous Giveaway....and my first one at that to boot!

Here's how to enter:

1) Check out Tammy's shop at Art Made By Tammy

2) Check out my shop at The Eclectic Studio

3) Pick out an item from each shop that you feel would make a great match

4) Come back here and tell me which two items you chose

And what will the winner receive? A set of 6 note cards from me. Pick any images that you like....all the same image or mix and match.

This Giveaway begins today and will end on Friday, August 1st. All comments will be pooled together and a winner will be chosen.

Thanks for playing!!!!

UPDATE....Tammy has announced that she will throw in a pair of earrings.
A 6 pk of notecards and a pair of earrings.....can't beat that!
SWEET!!!

A Match Made In Heaven

2008-07-17T13:55:00.004-05:00

For the month of July, two Etsy street teams have collaborated a promotion called Business Buddies. These two teams are EtsyGreetings and JET. The promotion, thus far, has been spectacular!!!

My JET Business Buddy is ArtMadeByTammy. I chose her because I felt her jewelry has vibrancy and the pieces she makes are so, so pretty. When I looked at her shop, I immediately began pairing her jewelry with my greeting cards.

Tammy offers Wearable Art Pendants, Fun Pendants, Gorgeous Lampwork Earrings and other great items too!

This pendant reminds me of my Tree Note cards:

As we sail through the month of July, Tammy and I have been offering some great promotions through our shops. Currently, our promotion is

Buy an item from Tammy's shop and receive a set of 4 note cards from me. Buy a set of cards from me and receive a free pair of earrings from Tammy!

This promotion ends on Sunday, 7/20. Watch our shops come Monday because we're ending the month, and this business Buddy program, with a BANG!

Thanks for looking,

Tammy of Art Made By Tammy

Sandy of The Eclectic Studio

Caterpillars....in my garden...eating my

2008-07-15T15:13:00.005-05:00

Marigolds!! UGH!!!! They are so cool looking, and I cannot possible kill them....here are the last two to visit:

They are so different, right? I've been sitting here for the past hour Googling them but do you know how many caterpillars there are in this world. OMG!!!! I've tried everything "white fluffy Caterpillar" "black spiky Caterpillar" "Caterpillar with red dots".

I will have to look more tonight.....if anybody knows, please feel free to share with me!

Thanks!

After the rain....

2008-07-14T19:26:00.002-05:00

After the severe thunderstorms we had last night, I awoke to this beautiful purple Tigerlilly flowerOf course I had to take a picture and list it in my Etsy shop as a set of notecards!!

Remember, I'm currently have a sale on my notecard sets...Buy One Set, Get One Set at 50% off. Click here to see all the sets of notecards currently in my shop. Want to mix and match? No problem, just tell me which images you would like to have and I will set-up a custom listing for you!

I'm in 3 Treasuries!!

2008-07-13T10:03:00.006-05:00

How excited was I when I realized I was in not 1, not 2, but 3 treasuries!!

Check them out!!

Click on the pics above to bring you to the treasury...click on each picture and leave a comment!!

Our New Tomato Garden!!

2008-07-10T12:00:00.005-05:00

I don't typically talk about personal things here on my blog...but I am so excited about our new tomato garden that I just must show you!

It all started MONTHS ago when my husband delivered 18-20 tons of dirt (he works for a sand & gravel place and he got it for FREE). I have never shoveled so much dirt in my life (I should have taken a picture of it....schucks).

This dirt has been placed all over our yard...we've made a bunch of flower gardens and the final project was our tomato garden. My husband potted about 30 or more tomato plants and they needed a place to go. We used wood and stones from an old tobacoo barn...and voila!

I can't wait to eat these tomatoes.....sauce, salsa, kebobs, grilled, roasted....it's endless!!

Donate Cards to Soldiers!!

2008-07-07T15:57:00.002-05:00

*********Mission Soldier Support**********

I am so excited to announce a spectacular effort by the Etsygreeting team! We are going to send handmade greetings overseas!

Purchase any card from participating shops through July 31 and include that you'd like to donate your purchase to Mission Soldier Support in the notes to seller.Your purchase will be sent to Capturedtimebooks who will be sending them to an Air Support Battalion stationed in Iraq. Search MSS for listings. The cards will be available for the soldiers to use for a note home.

As of July 3rd, we've collected 106 cards!!!

Art Made By Tammy....must see her shop!

2008-07-01T12:11:00.002-05:00

I just LOVE this shop!! At Art Made by Tammy, you'll find a diverse collection of 100% original creations from Wearable Art Pendants, Fun Pendants, Gorgeous Lampwork Earrings, and other Great Items!

I love her style...pretty, elegant, simple and super stylish!! You can visit her Etsy shop at ArtMadeByTammy .

If you make a purchase from her, just send me the link and I will give Free Shipping on any order from my shop.

My latest photo!!!

2008-06-30T10:58:00.003-05:00

We potted this plant and were so happy with the flower that bloomed!! It's called a Red Ganzia...so pretty!!

It is available in my Etsy shop as a note card set and included in my current Buy One Note card Set, Get the 2nd at 50% off!!! Just put BOGO in notes to seller and I will send a revised invoice. See HERE for all available images.

Feel free to convo me if you are interested in mixing and matching images!

First Wedding Dance!!

2008-06-25T20:17:00.003-05:00

This is completely non-business related....but it is pretty funny that I wanted to post it!!!

My son, who is 6, was showing me his breakdancing moves so I decided to go on YouTube and show him what breakdancing looked like. I came across fun first dance wedding videos...and I thought this was so cute and clever.

Enjoy!!

Handbags Galore!!

2008-06-16T20:13:00.008-05:00

I love handbags...thanks to my sister-in-law's collection. She has the coolest bags and I wanted some too!! I don't prefer a certain style....anything that is unusual and/or has some cool fabric will catch my eye. This is just a few that are in my favs:

This embroidered bag by pourcherie is so incredibly beautiful. I couldn't even imagine the time that went into making this bag. I love the design and colors.

Mandika makes all of her bags with recycled suits. I LOVE them all....but this is one of my favs.

Acajou has an entire line of these Kite Shoulder Bags. I love the shape and colors that she uses. This is just one of my favs.

The bags designed by Jacobseye are so cool. They are all different shapes and the colors that are used are fun and vibrant.

Speaking of color, MabelMcBee's shop is super colorful. I adore this bag....love the shape, the pattern on the fabric and the color is gorgeous.

and last but not least, this messenger style bag by annaladesign is so much fun. The fabric is beautiful and I love the vinyl overlay.

Please visit all of these great shops!!

BOGO 50% OFF all Photo Notecards!!!

2008-06-10T05:40:00.002-05:00

Photography calms me....I receive so much pleasure and immediate gratification from my little camera!! A big part of that gratification is knowing that somewhere, somebody has opened my card and, perhaps, has put a smile on their face.

For the month of June I am having a HUGE sale....Buy One Set of Notecards, Get One at 50% OFF!! That's 12 cards for $18.00.

Perfect as Thank You's, Birthday, Get Well, Miss You, and Sympathy. Perfect as a housewarming gift, teacher end-of-year gift, for coaches, or to give to somebody special in your life to let them know you were thinking of them.

They are digital photos printed on matte white heavyweight card stock. They are blank on the inside and packaged in a clear cellophane sleeve.

Visit my studio for other sets to choose from The Eclectic Studio. Just put "BOGO" in notes to seller and I will send a revised invoice to you!!! Easy as that!!

Okay, it's official...I've begun networking

2008-06-03T21:08:00.002-05:00

I recently joined a great Yahoo group called Unique Women in Business.

We consist of a group of women who have started our own business whether it is handmade, direct sales, or even a boutique. We are supporting each other by purchasing products from each other all around the US.

Are you a woman with your own company? If you offer UNIQUE items, whether it be direct sales, online website, art, hand made items, baby items, jewelry, or if you just love to shop online for unique items then this is the group for you.

Upon joining you will need to make a purchase from the person who referred you to the group (which is me), then you will be free to advertise your company and promote your items and a photo album will be created allowing you to download pics for shoppers to see. No minimun purchase just as long as it is something you want!!! Then you will have to make a monthly purchase to stay active in the group, does not matter who you purchase from as long as you make a purchase!!

I'm Back!!

2008-05-30T07:06:00.002-05:00

WOW, has it really been 4 mos since I posted???? Alot has changed this year......so much family drama - it's overwhelming and stressful. So, I decided to just remove myself from it and do what I enjoy most....being creative and running my business. It's a fresh start!!

Here are some great items to make your little girl feel special

And something for mommy too

EtsyGreetings FREE Giveaway, Round 3

2008-01-27T20:17:00.000-05:00

EtsyGreetings is up to our third round of contests.

What is the prize for this contest you ask...why a set of my Iris Notecards!! That's right.....just go to our EtsyGreetings blog and answer a couple of questions. That's all it takes and your name will be put in the drawing to win a set of four Iris Notecards!!

Good Luck to all who enter!!!!

Happy Anniversary EtsyGreetings!!!

2008-01-25T13:45:00.001-05:00

February 14th will be EtsyGreetings 1 year anniversary!!! For those who do not know, EtsyGreetings is a fabulous street team made up of talented cardmakers of all mediums!!

To celebrate our upcoming anniversary, each week we are holding a contest where YOU can win free cards. Last week the prize was a wonderful folded iris card from Beadkiss and this week it is a set of cards from GreenWillow. So, you must stop by our blog and participate each week so you can have a chance to win handmade cards!!

Check us out and see what we're all about at EtsyGreetings.

Saturday Night Special!!!!!

2008-01-12T17:15:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody! HAPPY SATURDAY!!

Tonight's special is 15% off ANYTHING in my shop PLUS FREE SHIPPING! WHOA.....can it be??? Yup, it sure can!!

Jewelry, Hand Knits, Dichroic Glass and Photo Notecards!

Just make sure to put SNS in notes to seller and I will send a revised invoice.

Valid until 6 am EST, Sunday, 1/13.

I hope everybody has a wonderful weekend!!

Letter Writing

2008-01-08T06:50:00.000-05:00

This week, January 8-10, is Universal Letter Writing. This is the perfect opportunity to begin new traditions and write to your friends and family! Let them know that you are thinking of them, you appreciate them and most importantly love them. I would love to share my story of how I use letter writing and why it is so important in my life.

About 6 years ago my mother-in-law went through chemotherapy. As a side effect to the chemo and medication, her short-term memory suffered terribly. Fast forward to last year, she lost her beloved husband of 56 years which progressed her memory loss even more. When my father-in-law passed away, she stayed with us for a couple of months before going out to Colorado to live with her son and his family....we had grown even closer than we already were. After a couple of calls to her in CO, I soon realized that she was not remembering previous calls I had made to her. That is when I decided to stop calling, and begin writing. I write to her, on average, every couple of weeks. I write about what we (my son, husband and I) are up to. I just want to touch base with her, but more importantly, I want her to know that she is always in our thoughts. She can take the letters and place them on her bedside table and she will be able to look at them daily and know that we love her and miss her. It just puts a smile on my face knowing that a piece of us will always be with her.

Perhaps there is an old school friend that you'd like to contact, or family far away that you would like to say "hi" to. Whatever the situation, it's so easy to pick up a pen and write your thoughts down. I LOVE getting cards in the mail....it makes me happy to know that somebody was thinking of me enough to write to me.

Where can you find the perfect card for every occasion? Why EtsyGreetings, of course!! We are a 250+ group of talented card makers who sell on Etsy. Visit our blog or type EtsyGreetings in the Etsy search!!

For your reading enjoyment, here are what others have to say about letter writing:

http://grafikexpressions.blogspot.com/

http://winemakerssister.blogspot.com/

http://katydiddys.blogspot.com/

http://cesiadesign.blogspot.com/

http://aiekpapergoods.blogspot.com/

http://whimsy-girl.blogspot.com/

http://oswannydesigns.blogspot.com/2008/01/universal-letter-writing-week.html

http://winemakerssister.blogspot.com/

As for me, my most recent photo note card is this beautiful Iris and the Rose is just one of my all time favorites!

Happy writing everybody...I promise you, you will make somebody's day!!!

Love 'em or Hate 'em?

2007-11-04T12:43:00.000-05:00

craft shows that is! I love the anticipation and setting up and the wonderfully happy feelings that I have knowing that people will purchase something that I made with my own two hands. Then, nobody buys anything and I'm completely pissed off and I have to pack all this crap up and I'm swearing left and right.

Now, thankfully, I have never done a show where I didn't sell anything...until last weekend. And, let me tell you, it really is depressing....at least for the first night. By the next day I was in a much better mood and was not going to kill anybody for looking at me the wrong way!

To boot, my booth was looking good too!! So many compliments, "your photography is beautiful" "what beautiful cards" "you made this glass? it's beautiful"...yada yada yada and blah blah blah! (but, really, I'm not bitter anymore) HA!

Here are some pics of my booth on that most depressing day.... :)

So, there you have it. Has anybody else done a show and not sold anything...I mean not even a flippin little something? Please tell me that I am not the only one.

Street Team News

2007-11-01T15:50:00.000-05:00

Jewelry on Etsy Team (JET)
Your chance to get all the fantastic jewelry you need for holiday gift giving, and treating yourself!

This wonderful team has started it's Holiday Sale, 11/1 - 12/16!!! To find great sales from over 300 shops just search JHS in the Etsy search - or click here!!

Then you can purchase your Christmas cards from.....

EtsyGreetings Street Team

Purchase your handmade Holiday cards from our current promotion...click here to see what the fabulous card makers at EtsyGreetings have created!!! To see what the 250+ members of this street team have available, just put EtsyGreetings in the Etsy Search!

For your viewing pleasure, these are my Christmas Cards (more will be added)

Let's make this Christmas Holiday something extra special and buy HANDMADE!

Cheers,
Sandy

You like me...You REALLY like me!!!

2007-10-26T05:47:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to wake up this morning to 350 hearts!!! YAY!!

So, for today only...10/26...I'm offering a 35% discount on everything in my shop EXCEPT for the two hand knit wraps!

Just put HEARTS in notes to seller and I will send a revised invoice.

Thanks to EVERYBODY who has hearted me...it just made my day!!

The Eclectic Studio

Have a wonderful day!

Sandy

FREE SHIPPING today only!!

2007-10-24T09:33:00.000-05:00

Hi everybody!

Free Shipping Wednesday...10/24!!!

Come on by and visit me....jewelry, hand knit items, photography and photo notecards!

http://www.theeclecticstudio.etsy.com/

What am I up to?

2007-10-21T16:26:00.000-05:00

Well, things have been busy....I have a show coming up on the 27th! I realized this weekend that the 27th is next Saturday and I just looked at my husband and said "I'M LATE". I have to get my booth "stuff" together and not to mention....make some more wonderful creations! But, it will all come together...it always does, right?

This is my latest photo and listing on Etsy. I was quite pleased with this picture of a Great Horned Owl. Such a beautiful creature!

Also, this is something that I am so, so proud of...my first felted creation. I knit this scarflette the other day and today the magic happened.....I felted it!

Now, I know the pin doesn't look like it matches but, trust me, it does! Perfectly!! Blue, purple, gray and about 4 different shades of green make this yarn so incredibly pretty.

Okay, off to do some beading...and laundry...throw in cooking dinner and it will be multitasking at its best !

Autumn? What's that?

2007-10-15T06:54:00.000-05:00

Just last week it was 92 degrees.....a couple of days ago the high was 68.....today it will be back up to about 80. This is how we all get sick!!!! But, I think - well, I'm hoping - that it will become Autumn like soon!!!

And when it does, my hand knit wraps will keep you very warm!

Also, today I am highlighting the EtsyGreetings latest promotion. Stop by and check out our current list of Fall/Thanksgiving cards all handmade by the EtsyGreetings Street Team

http://cljdesigns.typepad.com/etsygreetings/

This is my pumpkin card set which I am featuring

FAB COLLAB cards from the EtsyGreetings Street Team!

2007-10-05T11:56:00.000-05:00

This wonderful group of card makers on Etsy has put together a collaboration of ...well....cards! Each pack consists of three handmade cards and are categorized by occassion...Winter, Thank You, Birthday, Just Because, Mini Cards and more!

Here are the fabulous sets in my Etsy shop:

For more FAB COLLAB sets, click here

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title&search_query=fab%20collab

Are you an Etsy cardmaker? Than you MUST visit our blog and join. We are always doing swaps and promotions! This team is AWESOME!http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com/

Where does the time go?

2007-09-28T11:37:00.000-05:00

Things here have been super busy! Between the business, family and taking some time for myself...sometimes I don't know if I'm coming or going!

Let me first start off by saying that I love the Outer Banks! That's where we went on our vacation in August. Lovely, beautiful, relaxing...I can go on and on! Looking forward to going back next Summer.

And now back to business. Big news from The Eclectic Studio.....I am SO happy to introduce everybody to my friend Jennifer. She is somebody that I have grown very close to since moving to North Carolina. One day, while telling her my deep, dark fear of rejection, she offered to help out with approaching stores, promoting on Etsy and finding other places to advertise. So, while she handles all advertising and promotions, I can CREATE! YAY! I really feel that this will be a great move for The Eclectic Studio and I see us working very well together and taking the business to the next level.

In the meantime, I have posted my Autumn notecards. I seriously need to start working on my Christmas/Winter cards!

I hope everybody has a wonderful weekend! Enjoy!

Going on Vacation!!!

2007-08-10T13:18:00.001-05:00

So, tomorrow I am leaving on a well deserved vacation! Meeting my brother and his family at the Outer Banks, NC and then flying up to visit family & friends in NY! I can't wait!!!!

So, I will have internet access but I will not be shipping out orders until Monday, 8/27.

http://www.theEclecticstudio.etsy.com

Now, off to pack.....UGH!!!!

I finished the scarf!!!

2007-08-08T14:13:00.000-05:00

or is it a scarflette? well, none-the-less....it's done! I had fun playing with this one. Now onto the next scarf (getting ready for next season).

BTW, please excuse the quick photo (not my best work!)

He Actually Stayed Still......

2007-07-27T20:27:00.000-05:00

I was sitting on my front porch when I saw this grasshopper sitting on the Tiger Lilly leaf!! I ran into the house and grabbed the camera...and he sat there the entire time I was photographing him! Now if I can just get the hummingbirds that keep fighting each other by my front door...boy, they are fast!

I made notecards out of the photo....available in my Etsy shop!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6585138

Veggies!!!

2007-07-26T06:06:00.000-05:00

Good Morning everybody! Just a quick post today to tell ya about our vegetable garden......it's popping out peppers, tomatoes & cucumbers all over the place!! So far I've made a spaghetti sauce, salsa and bruschetta!! So yummy....but, of course, I had to take a photo first!!

Here are my latest photo notecards listed in my Etsy shop!

SALE, SALE, SALE....and other wonderful info!

2007-07-11T06:18:00.001-05:00

BOGO ( buy one, get one) 50% off all Notecard Sets! Perfect as host/hostess gift, wedding thank you cards, baby/bridal shower thank you cards or as a housewarming gift!! Perfect for yourself or for a friend who may not live near their friends or family - this is a great way to stay in touch (with a personal touch as opposed to e-mail!)

Perhaps you know somebody who loves Italy or Flowers - this is the perfect little something to add to a gift!! Come by and take a peek!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5006972&section_id=5039678

Also, let me take this opportunity to promote my Street Teams.......and they are, in no particular order:

EtsyMom: if you are a mom and have a shop on Etsy than you qualify. Come by and check out this supportive team at http://etsymom.blogspot.com

EtsyGreetings: great bunch of card makers who each have a shop on Etsy. So, if you are a card maker on Etsy then you MUST join at http://www.Etsygreetings.blogspot.com

JET: Jewelry on Etsy Team....a talented bunch of jewelry makers on Etsy. If you make jewelry and have a shop on Etsy and want to join click here http://www.jewelryonetsyteam.blogspot.com

Have a wonderful day everybody!

Today's featured artist is MarmeeCraft!

2007-07-09T14:46:00.000-05:00

I'm in a good mood today! I'm knitting, I cleaned my jewelry bench, I've broken my 5 wk dry spell on Etsy......and now I'm looking at this most fun, cute, whimsical shop called Marmee Craft! Bright, colorful and delightful all come to mind when I see items like these:

"All of my little lovelies are handmade with much love and attention"

How would you describe your shop? A whimsical storehouse for 21st century Victorians. There you shall encounter circus girls, dapper bunnies, felted fauna, and much wonderment for the eyes and soul!

How long have you been crafting? I have been doing crafty-good things for as long as I can remember. One of my earliest memories is having drawing sessions with my Dad. He would draw me, then I would draw him…..he always drew me so much better!!

Where does your inspiration come from? I am inspired by so many things: Nature, Victorian fashion and culture, My Husband and two sweet cats, Russian Animation (specifically Yuriy Norshteyn), Great Films, anything whimsical and existentially thoughtful (and both together are even better!)

What is your favorite piece? This is very hard, as I love all my little lovelies! If I had to choose one work that I am currently most in love with it would be my little Newsprint Bunny. I love the way he emerged from the newsprint covered canvas, even when I had specific designs for making that particular canvas into something entirely different…this little guy was in there and he made himself known!!

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? When I am not working on my little whimsy factory I spend my time sewing reproduction 18th and 19th century ladies attire, watching movies, baking, sewing (oops, I already said that!), and, of course, spending time with my darling husband and our two sweet cats.

What is the best advice you have received? I think the best advice I have received is to live life to the fullest and not wait until tomorrow to do anything that you feel is important today...life is too short and precious to spend it waiting around for something you want! And as for who gave me this advice, I would have to go through an astoundingly long list of philosophers, artists, writers, filmmakers and other wise souls to give proper credit!

Final comments? Thank You ever so much for featuring my little shop!! I love to be able to share my picture of the world with you! You can read more about my work and whimsy world at my blog: http://www.MarmeeCraft.typepad.com

Thank you for participating. You have a wonderful shop and I urge everybody to stop by and take a peek at Marmee Craft...you won't be disappointed!! http://www.marmeecraft.etsy.com

Pea Soup?

2007-07-08T17:02:00.000-05:00

I started working on a wrap yesterday. Well, I should say that I started working on what I intended to be a wrap.....it's going to be a scarf though! How off could I have been? A bit.

I didn't make it wide enough but it actually worked out because the sides are rolling under and it's now the perfect shape for a scarf. It's pea soup green (I'm sure I could call it something more appetizing but it's the first thing I thought of when I saw it) some mustard, orange and a really nice yarn I got in Italy that has a bunch of warm toned colors in it.

Also, if you remember, I set up a booth at the local grill/craft shop up the road from me middle of June - and I sold stuff!! YAY! I sold a bunch of notecard sets and singles and a pair of earrings. Basically, I've made my July booth $ back!!! I was doing the happy dance.....Go Sandy, Go Sandy, Go Sandy. Okay, I'll stop now!! :)

Huge Sale, BOGO 50% off

2007-07-03T06:22:00.000-05:00

Today I have launched a huge sale......BOGO 50% off all Notecards!!!

Each set has 6 cards so that's 12 cards for $13.50 (plus shipping). Don't miss out - go check out my Notecards Section NOW!!!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5006972&section_id=5039678

Perfect as Baby Shower, Bridal Shower and Wedding Thank You's, Birthday Cards, or a card to send to somebody special to just say "HI".

Sale valid until midnight (EST) on 7/15!!!

Today's featured artist is Inkyspider!

2007-07-01T15:43:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I have featured an Etsy artist so who better to start off the new series of features than Morgen of Inkyspider Designs. Talk about starting off with a bang! Her shop is fun, bright, eclectic and unique. She has a wide range of items, i.e. clothing, housewares, scarves and more.

"I use dye, shibori, screen printing, painting, sewing and piecing to transform the cloth into garments, wall pieces and cushions."

How would you describe your shop? The first thing you’ll notice about my shop, Inkyspider Designs, are the colours. I love bright and earthy colours as well as contrast and pattern. I am a textile artist working in a mixed media of surface design techniques. Many of my designs are on t-shirts for all ages, including the sweetest little baby tees. I also have clothing, scarves, and cushion covers. All images are original, designed by me and applied to fabric with techniques such as dyeing, screen printing, painting, shibori, discharge dye, appliqué and sewing.

How long have you been crafting? I began as a mixed media painter and printmaker, receiving my arts education in Southern Africa where I was born and raised. I have been working with textiles for 18 years doing mostly t-shirts for markets and fairs. In 2005 I decided to really make the switch from painting to fibre art and I am loving it!

Where does your inspiration come from? My early inspiration comes from first memories: the red dirt, bold patterns and vibrancy of Africa. I now live in the mountainous Kootenay region of British Columbia. Nature always astounds and inspires me. I find the little teeny-weeny hidden treasures in the natural world a never-ending source of patterns and ideas.

What is your favorite piece? One of my favorite designs is my ‘Flying Lizard’ because he’s been with me the longest. He started out years ago as a dragonfly that I used to draw in the natural history section of the museum across from the art school I went to. He’s morphed so many times through different media that he really knows me quite well. Also, he’s buzzy and I find him amusing.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? Other things that I have going on in my life are yoga, music, gardening, being involved in my community, teaching art, being outdoors and I am presently doing a course in pattern drafting and clothing design.

What is the best advice you have received? Best advice I ever got: “If you want to know something, ask”, from my Dad.

Thank you so much Morgen for participating on my blog!

Please make sure you visit Inkyspider Designs at http://www.inkyspider.etsy.com/ to see unique & fun handmade creations!

YAY - I'm in my first ever Craft Shop!

2007-06-19T13:49:00.000-05:00

So, let me preface this story by saying that there use to be this grill up the road from us....all the locals went there for some good "grill" food! Well, they had to close because they couldn't get enough hired help.

Last night, we're eating dinner and my SIL calls to tell me that the new grill opened up and they also have crafts. What? Food and Crafts? Can it be? So, I got myself all professional looking and grabbed a cross-section of my "stuff" and off I went to check this place out.

The place is great...you can go sit and eat, take out - stop by just for an ice cream cone.....AND SHOP! I think it is such a great concept. Plus, it's on the main road to the state park near us which attracts lots of tourists! Plus (again) all the locals are already use to going there for food so they'll definitely be coming in!

If I can take a moment to brag...just one little brag.....they loved my stuff! Loved the knits, cards, jewelry and glass...everything!

Tomorrow I set up my booth (3x6). I should be getting all my stuff together...but I'm not. I'm just so excited that I can't even focus on one thing at a time. My mind is all over the place.

Wish me luck my friends!

Today's great find!

2007-06-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

So, call me crazy...but I have officially started Christmas shopping....CRAZY! I know!

I just bought this necklace for my 12 yr old niece..I think she will love it (her name is Kerri though)! It is all sterling silver AND, the best part is that it was on Sale. Please stop by Polly's shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=97151 AKA Polly's Handmade Treasure's!

Life and Death

2007-06-11T14:31:00.000-05:00

My father-in-law has lost his battle and passed away on June 3rd...exactly 3 months to the date since he entered the hospital. He was admitted on 3/3 for a heartattack. A triple bypass surgery was done on the 9th. He never left the ICU. He battled and fought and hung on as long as he possibly could. It was simply terrible.

This has been a whirlwind of a week and needless-to-say I have not done anything with Etsy - today has been my first day back. I look forward to featuring a new Etsy artist tomorrow!

Today's featured artist is EastBenchBears

2007-05-25T20:08:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling a bit down today. My most bestest (if that is even a word) friend was suppose to come visit this weekend but for completely understandable reasons she is unable to....so sad!!! Thankfully, I have something to cheer me up and make me smile. Please look at these bears...so incredibly too cute:

How much do I want to just squeeze one of these bears right now!!! The owner of this shop is Anita and she makes her bears out of mohair (yummy). Each bear can take between 8-12 hours to complete....and as she has said "it is a labor of love!"

How would you describe your shop? My shop is a bear adoption agency! My bears are lovable, huggable, cuddly works of art, and I have been making them for two years now. I am loving every single minute of it!

Where does your inspiration come from? I am inspired by most everything, but especially my dreams, and my two poodles. In fact, some of my more recent bears are beginning to resemble my dogs a bit too much!

What is your favorite piece? and why? Hmmm...my favorite piece so far is Pease. I am thrilled with how he turned out. It was a real challenge to try and create a bear that really looked like a baby, but I am quite pleased with the result!

What is the best advice you have received? The best advice I ever recieved is from another bear artist: you cannot please everyone, just try your best to please yourself! This directly relates to my bear art- I make what I enjoy making, and hope that my bears can bring a smile to other people's faces as well!

Thank you so much Anita for participating on my blog! Your shop is fabulous and I urge everybody to visit it at http://www.EastBenchBears.etsy.com

Busy, Busy, Busy

2007-05-22T12:14:00.000-05:00

So, after my disastrous show I decided that I had to throw myself into promoting my Etsy shop! I've been promoting in the forums, I joined a new Street Team called JET (Jewelry on Etsy Team) and I'm investigating B&M shops in my surrounding area to display my pieces. Plus, I am in the process of photographing about a million pieces to list on Etsy. These are my latest creations:

I've discovered a site call StyleHive....many of you may already know about it! It is a place for people to discover products, stores that sell them and the people that offer them. It can be a bit confusing and it took me a while to get the swing of things..but I think I got it now! If you find something, let's say on Etsy (my favorite place), you can bookmark it on StyleHive . Once you bookmark it - this allows others to view it and if they also like it then they can "hive' it. As an artist, you can bookmark your own piece. I thought this was great for promoting...and it's free - you can't beat that! So far, a few of my pieces have been "hived" a couple or more times. Oh, and you can "follow" people...so if you like what I've "hived" then you can follow me. http://www.stylehive.com/theeclecticstudio/grid - I worn you..it is addicting!

Let me give a shout out to my new Street Team JET! Such a talented community of jewelry makers!! You can visit our blog at http://www.jewelryonetsyteam.blogspot.com/.

Also, my EtsyGreetings Street Team is promoting Graduation/Father's Day cards at http://cicadastudio.net/GradDad/graddad.htm. Again, such a talented group of people I am with in this Street Team.

off to list some more product!!

Today's featured artist is ButterflyMoon!

2007-05-17T10:11:00.000-05:00

I need to sit and relax....breathe deeply.....breathe deeply......

Okay, it's not working. So, I guess I just need to learn how to macrame hemp because according to Jen, of Hemp Butterfly, it is very relaxing! And as I look through her shop I can understand why.....what a cool way to create such beautiful pieces. She has necklaces, chokers, earrings, bracelets, key chains, and even photography!

How would you describe your shop? Definately a work in progress. It still doesn't look like what I want it to look and it is missing a lot of items. But I am so very proud. I want it to have a feel that people will stop by and relax and find exactly what they are looking for. I want them to feel at home and calm and yes.. Irie.

How long have you been crafting? I have been crafting for over 12 years. Strictly beadwork and hempwork. My best friend Leann from Oregon taught me how to macrame and I took off from there. It is a form of meditation, unusualness and creativity all in one for me. I stopped for a few years, babies came and I found I had no time to be creative. Decided to jump back on that horse and get rid of all these images and creations in my mind. I want to be able to give a piece of myself to each and every person who stops by. Maybe I will inspire someone!

Where does your inspiration come from? Many, many places. I do a lot of bead window shopping, if I see one I like an image and idea will pop into my head. I spend a lot of money on beads! I get a lot of inspiration from nature, the ocean, animals and my kids. There is no easy way to answer this question I get ideas even in dreams...

What is your favorite piece? and why? I don't think I have a favorite piece. I love all the work I have done, they are like my children. But if I had to pick one today it would have to be my Chinese Butterfly and my Biddy Buddah Necklaces. I have been in love with butterflies ever since I was a little girl and this necklace well to me it is just striking. The Biddy Buddah, I love his serene, peaceful, calm face. I see this necklace and I feel so at peace. I hope they go to good homes.

How do you spend your time when you're not crafting? Oh boy! When I am not crafting I am thinking of crafting. I also work at a Title Company in Fort Lauderdale (Archer Land Title) as a closer, admin. assistant, notary and receptionist... I am a very, very busy girl. I love both my jobs, it lets me wear different hats and I learn so much and meet so many beautiful people everyday.

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom? This is another tough one. I have received such beautiful advice from everyone. But I think I have to give kudos to my wonderful partner in crime, boyfriend, husband, friend, my everything.. Mario.. He was the one who said are you happy with what you are doing? if not find something you like and go for it. I told him I wanted to start making jewelry and macrame again and he got in the car and took me to a bead store! He gives me unconditional support everyday, he takes my pictures, he is doing my website.. you could call him my number one fan as I am his also.

Final comments? Etsy has been a blessing in my life. I haven't sold much but I have made so many beautiful souls in here! Thanks to whoever came up with this great website that allows me to put my works and show them to the world.

Thank you so much Jen for participating on my blog! It was so much fun reading your interview (Mario definately sounds like a good egg! Oh, and I go bead window shopping all the time too!)!

Everybody must stop by her Etsy shop to take a peek at the wonderful macarame jewelry (and gorgeous photos) she has created! http://www.butterflymoon.etsy.com

The Show From Hell

2007-05-15T12:27:00.000-05:00

So, as you know, I've been spending many days preparing for my Mother's Day weekend show. Well, it was last weekend....and.....to put it frankly.....it sucked. I mean..it really, really sucked!

I should have known it was going to be bad...all the signs were there! I realized the Thursday night before the first day of the show that we were suppose to set up and I realized this about 15 mins before going to the airport to pick up my mom..who, by the way, was flying in to help me with this HUGE show. Then, her plane was about 45 mins late. We get to the craft show site and the flippin canopy sides don't fit....my husband tried for over an hour to get all four sides zippered. It ended up he only got 3 out of the 4 done.

Friday was the first day and I sold $55 for the entire day. Sat, the 2nd day, around 4 pm we had a huge rain storm and when I tried to pull the table under the canopy - it collapsed WITH ALL MY KNITTING ON IT! So, since I had only sold one $2 card for the ENTIRE DAY I decided this was just not going to fly. We packed up and left. So disappointing. I was fit to be tied! I had such a pretty booth too.....here are some pics....

Nice, right? I was so happy with how it turned out.

So, that was my fabulous weekend. The only good to come out of it was that I got to spend time with my mom for the entire weekend!

Today's featured artist is NVSoap

2007-05-07T12:46:00.000-05:00

"Go Green with NV Soap! NV Handmade Soap...Better for your skin...Better for your environment!"

I'm 39 years old and I have problem skin....I'm sure I'm not the only one out there who does. Break outs are going to be the death of me one day.....I'm 39 for heaven sake! BUT...there is a solution and an affordable one at that.

I'm so pleased to introduce NV Soap (like envy). Her soap is made with NO Artificial Coloring, NO Artificial Fragrance, NO Animal Fats, No Artificial Preservatives and No Chemical Additives!! Beautiful!

How would you describe your shop? It's easy shopping ~ I produce and sale only one "perfect" soap!

How long have you been crafting? I've been an artist (painter) for many years, but a soapmaker for only one.

Where does your inspiration come from? The inspiration behind NV Soap came from the fact that I had really bad skin. I had acne that I had tried to treat through doctors and over the counter medications but nothing worked! After learning to make handmade soap and doing some research, I developed a cure for my own condition.

What is the best advice you have received? Follow your heart...

Final comments? Thank you for taking time to read this. Learn more about NV at www.nvsoap.etsy.com

Thank you for letting me feature you...I will definately be shopping in your shop very soon!

Please visit NVSoap's Etsy shop to learn more about the products she offers and all of the wonderful ingredients she uses.

A flower and a frog!!!

2007-04-27T19:22:00.000-05:00

So, I've been super busy getting ready for a show Mother's Day weekend...SUPER BUSY!! I've revamped my display, had to get a new canopy, folding tables, tablecloths.....oh, and did I mention displays? This is my first fair showing my notecards and photography..it's a bit overwhelming!

But, in the thick of it all, I have manged to list two new notecards - and I think they are pretty cool! One is a pretty plant my husband bought at Lowe's. It's in the Daisy family and is called a Trailing African Daisy...very unusual in my opinion!

The other notecard is a picture of a metal frog garden decoration that we've had for a few years now but I guess how Glenn put it in our garden this year it just looked cute and almost whimsical with it's face peeking from behind the plant looking at me!

So, I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Come by my Etsy shop to check them out in full.

Now, back to work!

Today's featured artist is....Studio AMF!

2007-04-19T08:34:00.000-05:00

The first word that comes to mind when I visit this artist's shop is FUNKY! I should say FUN and FUNKY! She has the coolest jewelry...everything is so unique.

All of the pieces in her shop she makes herself with the exception of the wooden bracelets which are a collaboration between herself and her Grandfather. The hand knit items are made by her Grandmother.

And I just have to show you this Networking Bracelet made out of circuit boards....

How would you describe your shop? Studio AMF is an eclectic mix of styles, techniques, and materials. Working with my hands helps me to know myself and the shop is a direct extension of my personality.The shop also contains a few articles made by my grandparents who are not plugged into the wide world of the web.

How long have you been crafting? I have been crafting and taking art classes since I was a little girl. Throughout my life it is one of the few interests that has been constant and consistent.

Where does your inspiration come from? I have always had a love for jewelry and appreciation for heirlooms. As a child I played dress up with my mother's and grandmother's jewelry and have inherited several of those pieces over the years. They are a definite inspiration. I also wake up in the morning with fresh ideas and take inspiration from my surroundings.

What is your favorite piece? and why? It so hard to choose just one.Right now my favorite piece is the Spirit of St. Louis necklace. It falls just right on the neck and...it is shaped like a plane!

And, I love the wooden rings. The oils in your skin darken them over time. They age with you and that is cool.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? gardening, yoga, traveling, friends and family

What is the best advice you have received? The best thing for me was not so much advice, but encouragement from the people I respect.

Thank you Studio AMF for being part of my blog! I just love your Etsy shop and I can't stress enough for everybody to visit you at: http://www.studioamf.etsy.com.

In addition to her shop, she has a website http://www.studioAMF.com.

Check them out folks!

Treasuries, Treasuries, Treasuries

2007-04-15T07:18:00.000-05:00

So, let me start off by explaining what a Treasury is.....on Etsy there is a section where members can display their favorite pieces of OTHER Etsy members works. I love creating treasuries and helping other Etsy artists get their work recognized! Many items sell from my treasuries and that makes me feel great!!

But, what makes me feel even better is when I'M featured in a treasury and can I tell you that I'm in 3 right now!!! Yes, count them....3!! HAPPY DANCE! It is such a big deal to be in a treasury....to know that somebody liked your piece enough to showcase it and then all the exposure it will get....well, it's big!

So, of course I must share them with you.....and it's funny 'cause they all include my notecards:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury.php?id=1176525243648U93128
http://www.etsy.com/treasury.php?id=1176580700998U5058679
http://www.etsy.com/treasury.php?id=1176624434824U5089831

Off to clean the studio...have to begin preparing for the Mother's Day Craft Show I'm doing. Well, that's a whole other story...I'll keep ya posted!

Today's featured artist is....Kittygrrlz

2007-04-14T13:11:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned that I love to knit and play with different textured and colored yarns? It is SO MUCH fun to create something that you can wear and get enormous satisfaction from.

With shops like Kitty Grrlz Knitz & Spins, it makes knitting that much more fun! She's been a knitter since 2004 but recently she learned how to spin and she now spins these wonderfully yummy yarns! And the best part, she has them available in her Etsy shop for us!! In addition to her knitting, she also creates beaded jewelry (she's a girl after my own heart!)

How would you describe your shop? "Kitty Grrlz Company" (named after my two kitties!) started as a catch-all for any type of crafting I would do and has shifted from jewelry to hand knit items and now handspun yarn . . . all with the idea of being fun, unique and expressive. My items are about fun, color, texture and individuality! I also hope to walk the line between function and fashion--I want yarn that "works" but is pretty and wild! Hand knits that look great while serving their intended purpose!

My shop will evolve and change as I discover new things--new patterns or fibers or colors or techniques. Kitty Grrlz is my outlet for creativity, enjoying the process of creating and I hope that others can benefit from the final outcome. Everything I make comes from the heart--I do it because I love it and hope others do, too!

How long have you been crafting? I started making jewelry about 4 years ago, but then happened to learn how to knit at the DIY Trunk Show in Chicago in 2004. I always say that's where it all began! Their local SnB group was there, right near our booth (I had jewelry at the time!), giving free knitting lessons, complete with free needles and yarn. So, I figured I'd give it a shot! It really wasn't easy at first. I felt like I would never "get" it, but I went home and just practiced . . . and soon, I was able to knit, purl and by the next Trunk Show in 2005, I had knit a sweater, along with many things for the show.

Then, things changed when someone forwarded the Yarn Wench site (yarnwench.com) to a mailing list I'm on. I ordered some of her "Pirate Yarn" and thought, wow! This is wonderful! And that was my introduction to handspun yarn! I began knitting with her yarns and then she began offering hand dyed fiber! I immediately started plotting . . . I mean, planning . . . to learn how to spin so I could buy the fiber and make my own yarns . . . then I'd have yarn to knit with to make my items even more handmade and more unique! (I still love knitting with other fiber artists' handspun yarns, and I use them in my hand knit items often.)

I learned how to spin in December 2006, and now it's pretty much all I do! Though, I do try and knit a little, too, and plan on having lots of hand knits for Fall 2007 shows.

Where does your inspiration come from? Inspiration . . . . I'd say it comes from . . . everything! Though, color seems to be the starting point for me. Since I do not dye my own fiber (yet!), I am attracted to fiber in colors that just . . . speak to me! Then, each one sort of "tells" me what it wants to be (2ply? single? bulky art yarn?) and I go from there. I also think some of my motivation is from the process itself. The actual physical repetition of the spinning and knitting is sooo soothing to me! I call it my "therapy"!

What is your favorite piece? and why? "Tequila Sunrise" I love the colors and softness of the hand dyed Merino wool, and I spun in soft novelty yarns and plied it with thread . . . and it all just came together the way I imagined it and for me is my proudest moment as a spinner!

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? I'm actually a librarian by day! I work in a college library as a cataloger and for the past few years have been working on cataloging a HUGE donated collection of Children's Books! So, when I'm not working at my "day" job, or working at my "crafty" job, I hang out with my boyfriend and cat, watch more tv than I care to admit (but it's so easy to do while knitting and spinning! I always seem to need to be multi-tasking!) and just enjoy life!

What is the best advice you have received? Advice . . . hmm, I'm not really sure. I am very grateful for that very first knitting lesson and how patient she was with me . . . and the great spinning teacher I had . . . but now, advice on crafting, selling, etc. comes from varied sources and many wonderful people and usually just boils down to learning from others' experiences and being open to listening to what they have to say!

Final comments? I truly love knitting and spinning, and love that I can create something from, well, not really nothing, but something else. I love the tactile nature of working with fiber. All I truly hope is that others out there can benefit from what I do . . . whether it be to use my yarn in their perfect project, or to wear one of my hand knits . . . I just want my items to be . . . enjoyed!

Thank you so much for being part of my "Featured Artists"!! You do lovely, lovely work!

Visit her shop at http://www.kittygrrlz.etsy.com/

Today's featured artist is....Dawns Beaded Delights!

2007-04-13T06:29:00.000-05:00

When I look at her shop I think Gift Shop! She has everything from barrettes, frames and pendants made out of polymer clay, wine charms, glass beaded jewelry up to her Wee Diva Collection of pins and magnets (also made out of polymer clay)! You must browse around her shop....you are sure to find something that you'll love!!!

How would you describe your shop? Bright, colorful and fun. I have items for everyday wear and for formal occasions, as well as polymer clay creations.

How long have you been crafting? Most of my life, the jewelry just sort of took over about 5 months ago.

Where does your inspiration come from? I like creating my own beads, each one is completely different, I like things that have a little quirkiness to them. I just start working and let it flow.

What is your favorite piece? and why? I like this whole collection, it's not traditional, and very unique.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? I love riding my motorcycle, traveling, we just got wave runners, and I like to hike and just be outside.

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom? Not take things personally and to get a thicker skin. I am extremely sensitive to comments , my boyfriend and one of my best friends told me that, it is not easy for me!

Final comments? Come on in and visit, it may not be real fancy, but my creations are fun, and can be worn everyday, and that is what my goal was in creating this site.

Thank you so much for allowing me to feature you! Everybody can visit your shop at http://www.dawnsbeadeddelights.etsy.com

Happy Shopping!

Today's featured artist is....Artandghosts

2007-04-09T17:03:00.000-05:00

Today we are going to take a trip into the surreal and this artist's shop is the perfect avenue to travel! Inspired by dreams (including nightmares) she creates pieces that will draw you in and want to see more!

"Most of what I produce is unbidden and unexpected, a continuous joy (and just as often, a terror!) of unconscious unravellings and adventures in picture form."

How would you describe your shop? I would describe my shop as a surreal adventure, a sort of journey through the unconscious of a curious individual! I cannot imagine how other people perceive my work! There are images to suit many moods; dark, frivolous, silly, cute, etc. A bit of a mixed bag:)

How long have you been crafting? I have been making things forever. But mostly my early days were spent creating stories. I used to live on a farm, so I spent many afternoons just walking around the woods and fields there, living out stories I had invented, which later led me onto an interest in narrative and films. I began studying photography in my early twenties (I'm 33 now) and went on to do a degree in fine art. This is when I realised that I could turn the stories inside of my head into images, bringing them to life - it was a wonderful discovery indeed!

Where does your inspiration come from? My inspiration comes mostly from dreams, old folktales, and fairy tales that I recall from childhood. Some of the dreams are pleasant, some are more like nightmares, which is often the way of fairy tales in general. I love metaphor and symbolism too, which are also integral to dreams and old stories. Music is essential for my works too, and my favourite films, particularly Jan Svankmajer, David Lynch and the Brothers Quay!

What is your favorite piece? my favourite piece is 'Love is a rose' . It represents so much that is important to me. The image represents hope, self acceptance and love. Not so much a romantic love as a deep understanding of the self. The rose is a symbol of purity and innocence here, which I think can be attained no matter what life has thrown at us. I have suffered a number of traumatic experiences, and these experiences have taught me how important such things really are. The child represents belief and new beginnings, and a secret joy that no one can ever steal.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? when I am not crafting I am reading, completing college work, seeing friends or relaxing with a nice cup of tea, a good film and my beautiful cat, Mirlo:)

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom? The best advice I have ever received was from my mother! An extremely wise and perceptive woman who has a habit of proclaiming herself unintelligent! She has always supported what I do, no matter what, and has stood by me 100%. Her greatest advice to me was simply to be myself, to follow my dreams. Another simple but priceless gem of hers is 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger'. I am a living example that this is quite true!

Final comments? I would love my work to somehow illustrate all that is written above, particularly concerning the power of our imagination as an aid to overcoming adversity: To truly believe in ourselves and what we do (be it art or anything else) is a very special gift, and so often quite difficult to attain. To perceive a light in the darkness, beauty beyond the negative, evil aspects of existence is within us all, I often try to convey that in my work. Fairy tales are rarely 100% pretty, and neither is life! But we do have the ability to reinvent goodness, hope and beauty within.

Thank you so much Artandghosts for participating on my blog! You are truly inspiring!

Be sure to check out her Etsy shop at http://www.artandghosts.etsy.com and her blog at http://artandghosts.blogspot.com.

Balancing home life and a business...any suggestions?

2007-04-05T14:12:00.000-05:00

My son has been on Easter break this week....and I've come to the conclusion that this is going to be a very loooooonnnggg summer! I MUST find a summer day camp - it's actually harder than it sounds!

I've gotten absolutely nothing done so far this week....so sad 'cause I have all these great ideas but I just can't execute them because I have no TIME!!! As I write this he's upstairs calling me...and calling me....and calling me! WHAT, WHAT, WHAT???

It makes me wonder....How do mothers who work from their home and have preschool children do it? What is the secret to balancing family and a home based business? If you are reading this and you know...please tell me!

So, with that being said, I'm so sorry that I have no updates, new designs, or pictures to show you. I told my husband that I need Saturday afternoon for studio time. That will be my time to play!!!

Featured Artist - Jesirose!!

2007-03-29T09:19:00.000-05:00

So, when I first opened my shop on Etsy I kept reading about ACEO's and I had no idea what they were. Until recently!! ACEO's are always 2.5" x 3.5" Art Cards, Editions and Originals. From what I understand, they are completely addictive and after seeing my next featured artist I can understand why.

I am pleased to introduce Jessica of Jesirose. This is just one of her many ACEO's:

and I love this painting which is acrylic on canvas board, 5 x7"

How would you describe your shop? My shop features basically whatever I'm interested in at the moment! I love to try new ideas and medium, so right now it's acrylic paintings and prints, but next week I might add some plush toys, I just enjoy crafting anything I can!

How long have you been crafting? My mom got me interested in painting and cross-stitch when I was pretty young, and ever since then I've enjoyed it.

Where does your inspiration come from? Mostly from other people, I really enjoy seeing techniques that other artists use and letting them inspire me. I also turn to my husband or two kittens when I need ideas.

What is your favorite piece? and why? My favorite at the moment is "Reach", an ACEO I did based on my first painting that sold on Etsy. It's acrylic on glossy cardstock.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? I'm a full-time student and a web developer, so I am pretty much stuck in front of the computer! I am also training for a triathlon, getting out in the sun and water a bit!

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom? My grandma always told me I can do anything, and I have always tried to live up to that. Another quote I like to remember is "Anything worth having is worth working for", which inspires me when I am getting down, to remember that I just need to keep trying!

Final comments Thanks for featuring me!

Please visit Jessica at her Etsy Shop and see all of the wonder pieces she creates!

http://www.jesirose.etsy.com

Featured Artist - Halodesigns!!

2007-03-26T08:32:00.000-05:00

Today is so exciting.....today I have my first ever featured Etsy artist! It is my intention to not only give these artists exposure, but also let you, the reader, learn of such wonderfully talented people!

I am thrilled to introduce today's featured artist Malaika of Halodesigns. I have come to the conclusion that I can learn a few things from Malaika. In addition to home schooling her three children and, well, being a mom...she has TWO Etsy shops....Halodesigns and Heavenlybodies. I can barely handle one child and one shop! So, I applaud you Malaika- as crazy as times may get, she creates such beautiful jewelry, cards, crocheted gloves and a whole shop of bath and beauty products. Check out these earrings...I love the structure and design:

and this soap sounds divine

How would you describe your shop? My shop is a colorful mix of whatever mood my brain is in on any given day. My first love is jewelry but everything else comes in at a close second. Right now I am on a cardmaking binge. I love bright colors and trying to make things that no one else has.

I also have a bath and body shop, heavenlybodies.etsy.com, that has a yummy variety of skin loving products made with the best ingredients that I can find.

How long have you been crafting? I have been crafting pretty much all of my life. Growing up with not much money and a creative mother, I had to rely on crafting when I couldn't afford what I wanted and often times I ended up with something everybody else wanted.

Where does your inspiration come from? I have to say that at this moment my inspiration comes from seeing all of the other Etsy artists that I share this extraordinary site with. The talent here is unbelievable and I am proud to belong to it and I work harder everyday to measure up.

What is your favorite piece? This could change at any moment but today my favorite piece is this pair of earrings. I love the color purple and these just look like a fun summer day.

How do you spend time when you're not crafting? I have three kids and when I am not huddled over my desk in my hobby room I am coloring with them or doing a puzzle or playing baseball or soccer. Other than that, I am on the super addicting Etsy forums.

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom?
Always wear clean underwear, you never know when you are going to get into an accident. From my mom. She is a smart lady. Thanks to her my bra and panties always match.

Final comments? Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my funky little shop.

....and Thank You, Malaika, for letting me feature you! Please visit her stores to see her wonderful creations:

http://www.halodesigns.etsy.com

http://www.heavenlybodies.etsy.com

FLOWERS

2007-03-22T14:33:00.000-05:00

I really do love flowers.....especially when the sun is shining, the sky is blue, the birds are chirpping..............

Alright, alright....I'll stop!

But, what I won't stop doing is showing you these beautiful flower notecards I just listed on Etsy. I am very pleased with them!!

http://www.theEclecticstudio.etsy.com

Other than that, everything is hectic..working on baby themed wine charms for a custom order, repairing some jewelry for somebody else, oh, and doing the laundry, cleaning, taking care of child..I know, I know WAH, WAH, WAH! I might bitch-n-complain - but ya know I love it!

2 BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS

2007-03-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

this is HUGE....spectacular.....mouth-dropping news.........no, I'm not pregnant!!

Today the wonderful Street Team I'm involved with, EtsyGreetings, has begun our 20% off sale!!! How perfect for right before Easter....you must come by our blog and check out what shops are participating (just click SALE )! Yours truly is a participating shop so come and see what I have in my shop!!

http://www.EtsyGreetings.blogspot.com

And as if that wasn't enough excitement for one day.....I will begin - on Monday, March 26th, featuring two Etsy artists a week! "What? Are you kidding me", you say? No, I am not kidding you! I so far have 43 artists of different crafting backgrounds to introduce to you and I think you will love them all! Opening ones eyes to Etsy and all that is available is one reason why I created a blog, so this venture is really important to me!

So, check out the EtsyGreetings website AND make sure to visit here often so you can be introduced to some fabulous artists!

I'm addicted to Etsy!!!

2007-03-20T09:23:00.000-05:00

Hi. My name is Sandy. And I'm addicted to Etsy!

If I could eat, breathe and live Etsy...I would. So sad, I know. BUT, if you looked around and saw the fabulous creations people make...you would be too! Gauranteed!

Speaking of fabulous creations (wink, wink) here are my latest listings. A pink and black choker - I love this color combination! Very sexy in my opinion ....and....baby themed wine charms - how fab as a little something extra with a baby shower gift!

Both items are in my Etsy store (http://www.theEclecticstudio.etsy.com) so come on buy and visit my studio!!! At least, shop around Etsy....don't be afraid of becoming addicted..you will be in very good company!

Where's the Warm Weather????

2007-03-18T15:16:00.000-05:00

Well, it's cold again. For a couple of days we were in the high 70's and even went into the 80's on one day.....now I have my scarf and gloves back on. What's that about?? So, since it's not nice spring time weather outside, I've decided to bring it to me and create spring items. Here are the earrings that I made the other day...I just listed them on Etsy today:

I just realized this morning that the May craft show is only 7 weeks away...I'm late!!! It's a 3 day event so I'm going to have to bring ALOT of stuff. Too much to think about!

My next challenge....take these wooden beads and make jewelry!

Make sure to come back to see what I create!!

SSSHHH.....Creating In Process

2007-03-16T13:32:00.000-05:00

The desk is cleaned and the workbench is cleared and I have begun creating! I'm really enjoying working with pastel swarovski crystals I purchased the other day. I've so far have made some earrings, a choker and baby-themed wine charms. Right now, I'm working on another choker which will be Spring themed! The pictures are a heads-up of what will be listed on Etsy over the weekend. I would list them now but I like to use natural sunlight for my pictures and, well, it's raining today! So, that will have to wait one more day!

Also, before I forget, I'm having a Happy Hour special for tonight only until midnight (EST)....buy one note card set, get one at 1/2 off!!! Pretty good I think...so for $12 you'll get 12 cards....and there are some great cards that will be perfect for Easter. You'll definitely spend more than that during a trip to your Hallmark store! Come by and check them out! (just put "HappyHour" in notes to seller and I will send you a revised invoice)

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5006972&section_id=5039678

The Task At Hand

2007-03-14T16:14:00.000-05:00

Is your work area as messy as mine? Well, I'm the type of person that I can't create in an area that is not clean..this holds true for my kitchen too! I can't cook dinner in a messy kitchen so I have to clean it first just to messy it up again! Take a look at my work area and you can tell I haven't been creating very much!

So, the task at hand is to clean, clean, clean and then create, create create (hopefully that's how it will work).

Tax Time

2007-03-13T11:08:00.000-05:00

So, just got back from getting our taxes done...not too bad...we've done better but we're not greedy!!! I have to look for a bunch of ppwk that I had no idea they would need (regarding my business) so that's what I'll be doing today.

I did want to let you all know that I am having a scarf sale. I took 20% off the original price and I'll pay the shipping!! Take a look...it's not to early to prepare for fall, is it? :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5006972&section_id=5063464

Well, off to search for paperwork! Good luck with your taxes!!!

My mind is going 1000 miles/hr!!!

2007-03-12T09:25:00.000-05:00

Ever feel like you have a million things to do but can't seem to complete one of them? That's how I feel....my mind is racing! Well, the dishwasher is going, the laundry is going...now I just have to get my creative juices going so I can prepare for Easter and Mother's Day and my first craft fair for the year - which is also my first craft fair in NC! Way excited about it! I have a bunch of ideas that I just need to jot down on paper and then CREATE!

The race has begun....I'll post some items I'm working on so ya'll come back now!!!

My first Blog Post

2007-03-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

So, this is exciting! I just set up my blog...and, well...here we go! Please have patience with me as I stumble my way around the site!

In the meantime, I'll show you a bit of what I create!

The Eclectic Studio

What I bought for Christmas!!

Wordless Wednesday

Our Christmas Card

~~ New Stuff ~~

Feature Friday

Wordless Wednesday, but it's Thursday??

Tuesday Treasure!

Feature Friday

BOGO Sale!!!

**** Feature Friday ****

(REPOST) Want to Network and make sales?

One Hour

Unique Women In Business

My newest

Autumn is in the air!!

Spammers....please just GO AWAY

Lovlies for your ears!!

I want to decorate my home!!

Win a Set of My Cards!!

Networking.....hmmm......does it work?

EtsyGreetings Giveaway!!!!

Christmas in September?

Vendor Blender Tonight - Reminder

Do you promote YOUR Etsy shop?

Do you Trade?

Just Joined Indiepublic!!

Flowers, Flowers and more Flowers....

And the winner is.......

My First Giveaway Contest!!

A Match Made In Heaven

Caterpillars....in my garden...eating my

After the rain....

I'm in 3 Treasuries!!

Our New Tomato Garden!!

Donate Cards to Soldiers!!

Art Made By Tammy....must see her shop!

My latest photo!!!

First Wedding Dance!!

Handbags Galore!!

BOGO 50% OFF all Photo Notecards!!!

Okay, it's official...I've begun networking

I'm Back!!

EtsyGreetings FREE Giveaway, Round 3

Happy Anniversary EtsyGreetings!!!

Saturday Night Special!!!!!

Letter Writing

Love 'em or Hate 'em?

*****Street Team News*****

You like me...You REALLY like me!!!

FREE SHIPPING today only!!

What am I up to?

Autumn? What's that?

FAB COLLAB cards from the EtsyGreetings Street Team!

Where does the time go?

Going on Vacation!!!

I finished the scarf!!!

He Actually Stayed Still......

Veggies!!!

SALE, SALE, SALE....and other wonderful info!

Today's featured artist is MarmeeCraft!

Pea Soup?

Huge Sale, BOGO 50% off

Today's featured artist is Inkyspider!

YAY - I'm in my first ever Craft Shop!

Today's great find!

Life and Death

Today's featured artist is EastBenchBears

Busy, Busy, Busy

Today's featured artist is ButterflyMoon!

The Show From Hell

Today's featured artist is NVSoap

A flower and a frog!!!

Today's featured artist is....Studio AMF!

Treasuries, Treasuries, Treasuries

Today's featured artist is....Kittygrrlz

Today's featured artist is....Dawns Beaded Delights!

Today's featured artist is....Artandghosts

Balancing home life and a business...any suggestions?

Featured Artist - Jesirose!!

New Stuff

Feature Friday

Street Team News