I'm in Print!

When I began my beading venture over 2 years ago, I never dreamed that one of my pieces would actually be showcased in a bead magazine. This is a first for me, and I have to say, "I'm floating on cloud 149!!!" That's the page number that "My Avant-Garde Necklace" is on in the January 2009 issue of Bead Trends!

My sweet Mother-in-law (Flo) is always there for me...always bragging to her friends about the earrings I made for her and always reminding me of my talent for jewelry making. I can't tell you how many "bead finds" she has given me from her many yard sale adventures! I'm truely lucky to have her in my life, not only as my Mother-in-law, but as a Mother figure to me. I value her support and love she gives me, and I know she'll be so happy when I give her a copy of this Bead Trends issue. I can just see her now....taking it with her to her nail and hair and Dr. appointments and telling everyone, "My daughter made this!" This means more to me than I can even imagine right now.

See more of my necklace at, "The Jewelry Box."

YOU could win this....

Lovely necklace, courtesy of Nicole Campanella/Beadwright!

Head over to the Artisan Beader's blog for all the details!

Winner will be announced this Friday! Good luck!!

1000Markets

I recently was accepted on 1000Markets.com! I'm so happy to have another outlet for selling my handmade jewelry. I will no longer be putting all my eggs in one basket anymore! 1000Markets really gears itself toward the sellers. No Pouncing or time machines, and setting up shop is so easy! I've been focusing on learning more about this great new site, and I really look forward to growing with it. :) Click HERE for my 1000Markets shop. Peace!

Brand New Giveaway...

from The Artisan Beaders Street Team!! This week, visit our Team Blog for your chance to win this very beautiful one-of-a-kind pendant from Jael's Jewels. Created by hand with polymer clay and accented with a dichroic glass cab in the middle. This amazing pendant hangs from a gold plated headpin & measures 1 1/2" long by 7/8" wide x 3/8" deep.

So, what are you waiting for? The winner will be announced this Friday, the 12th!

Good Luck!!!

The Spreader of Love

I'm so very happy today! I got a sale from my Etsy shop late last night. A sweet customer that just happened to pick one of my bracelets from her Christmas gift list. How cool is that? So..for now, my shop is not longer moribund. Yay! :D Then, this morning I woke up to receiving a very special blog award from a very special person, Sue, of "Signature Sterling."

Sue bestowed upon me "The Spreader of Love" award!! I feel truely blessed to have such caring and supportive friends, and I "Thank You Sue" for brightening my day just a lil bit more and reminding me that I am loved! ((HUGS))

And now, I bestow the honor of spreading the love to:

Lee of Abelee's Handcrafted

Deronda of Deronda Designs

Lola of Lola D's Menageries

Deborah of Beadology.US

Lis of Springs Creations

Nicole of Beadwright

Here are the rules to spread the love!

(1) Post a copy of the award on your blog post. (2) Mention who gave you the award. (3) Pass the award on to 6 others. (4) Leave a message on their blog letting them know the honor has been bestowed upon them.

GIVEAWAY GIVEAWAY GIVEAWAY

There's only 1 day left for a chance to win a gorgeous pair of earrings from Kristy of Shiny Adornments! The Artisan Beaders Street Team is having a series of giveaways, with a new giveaway each Monday. Go to our team blog for details! And good luck!

Little Black Boxes

Wouldn't it be nice to actually get a lil taste of what sellers of handmade items make before you place a legitimate order with them? Such as myself? Well....you can! There is a wonderful site where you can do just that, and it's called "The Little Black Boxes." I'm sure you've heard of them, but if you havn't, you will want to! They sell promo boxes every month with all kinds of promotional items in them such as, jewelry, candles, soaps, bags....you name it! It's all handmade! And they all come with some sort of coupon offer from each seller. December's boxes go on sale Dec. 5th, and you will find a lil something in them from The Jewelry Box. I've also thrown in an extra lil goodie! The boxes are very economical, and it's a great way to learn about amazing crafters and their product. Go to The Little Black Boxes for all the details!

Happy Shopping!!!

Luna Award

It's black Friday eve, and I've had the most crazy day. I went to bed last night at 10pm (which is very early for me), then tossed and turned and didn't get much sleep, then woke up at 3:45AM! ((SOOO NOT normal for me)) and got ready to go mad shopping at walmart. Walmart, of all places....GAH! But...they had 2 specific items on sale that I needed to get for Christmas. I can't say what they are, cause my son and daughter-in-law might read this, and I can't give it away. Anyhoo....hubby and I had never done the whole black Friday shopping like crazy at friggin 5AM in the morning thing! So, since walmart had some good sales, and we had a lil bit of money in our pockets, we thought, "what the hey." So..we went for it and experienced a first together. Besides, there was no way I was going to walmart at 5AM with mad crazy shoppers without him!!

So now, it's around 11:30ish Friday eve, and I've finally jumped on my computer to hopefully be surprized with a sale or two from my shop, but...no sales today. Instead, I received a happy surprise from my very good friend, Brandi of catiesblue. Not only did she give me a "Luna Award" but, she brightened my spirits and reminded me of the wonderful, sweet, and inspiring friend that she is to me! "Thank You Brandi!"

NEW GiveAway

The Artisan Beaders Street Team is having another sweet giveaway this week! This week, Brandi of "catiesblue" is giving away a beautiful stunning necklace!! You do NOT want to miss this giveaway!! Head over to the Artisan Beaders Blog and enter for your chance to win Brandi's lovely necklace!

Fabulous GiveAway from Modish!!

Jena at Modish is holding the 2nd GiveAway of some wonderfully, awesome, unique, beautiful, handcrafted, items! $805.00 worth to be exact!! One very lucky winner will win everything in the photo below! Just go to the Modish Blog and follow the instructions on how to enter. It's that easy!! Besides, you can't win if you don't play! :)) You have until December 3rd at 11:59pm to enter. The lucky winner will be announced on December 4th. So..Go! And enter NOW! "Good luck!" :-))

All giveaway items are from the following extremely talented participants!

*peace sign* TIN WINGS

*"slowly" print* EYEFUL by TRICIA McKELLAR

*Czech glass drop earrings* K KENNEDY DESIGNS

*"Maya in Fall"* print MATILOU

"I have many thoughts" print TANIS ALEXIS

*Snowman necklace and earrings set* HUMBLEBEADS

*corduroy bear pouch* RED MARIONETTE

*"Plant a tree" print* KACHING DESIGN

*beaded earrings* MOONDOONIE

*fern clutch with vintage button* MONSTER FASHION

*silver drip necklace* BEADS IN THE BELFRY

*beer quartz "kisses" earrings* JEWEL ALCHEMY

*2009 calendar* HAPPIFY

*hand-painted silk earrings* GILBEA

*alphabet-o-graphic wooden earrings* MOYOU

*tea tree citrus scrub* DANDY BODYCARE *"nectarine under cage" print* FOOD CHIC

*set of Brighton Buildings cards* ROBIN101

*blue and brown crystal drop earrings* CRYSTAL ALLURE

*chocolate and vanilla necklace* TWINKLE

*sushi mousepad* HEAD BITCH IN CHARGE

*green tree pendant* PIECES OF ME PENDANTS

*set of 12 correspondence cards* 1ST COMES LOVE

*love gun necklace* PULP SUSHI

*beaded rainbow brooch* FLECTO

*Needlepoint Trade Secrets, autographed book* JANET PERRY

*beaded bookmark* DEE-ZIGNS

*jungle print headband* STYLISH MODE

*winter finger puppet* BABYSWEAR

*batik zip pouch* URBANKNIT

*3 little birdies necklace* FLAMBEAUX DESIGN

** protozoan necklace STARVING ARTIST BAZAAR

*"geneen earrings"* MUSETTE

*crystal quartz and moonstone earrings* CATIE'S BLUE

*mushroom zip bag* OBLINAKNIT

*jumper purse* PHAT SHEEP

*yuzen pendant* A PLANET 4 CREATION

*copper bead dangle earrings* A PRETTY ROCK

*black and white flower headband* GEMDROPS

Autumn...

Autumn is my favorite season! Sure, I love Spring and Summer too, and I muddle through Winter...but Autumn just seems to bring out my creative side more. Maybe it's the changing of the leaves and all the beautiful colors that come with it or maybe it's the Autumn moons and stunning sunsets. Whatever it is, I'm just glad it's here! And I'm enjoying it as much as possible, before Winter arrives. Winter is okay....I like the snow....but, I never liked driving in it (don't drive anymore), and it's too cold for my aching bones.

*Autumn Days*

View my "Autumn Series" HERE.

It's Time For............

a new giveaway!! This week's giveaway item is from Ainsley of Kaskaad Handmade Jewellery. This delightful cell phone charm could be yours for FREE! Go HERE for all the details! Good luck! :)

Perfect Autumn Day

Okay...considering my husband was recently laid off, the economy being bad, and my chronic pain.....today is a rare day for me. I actually feel good today! Maybe because it's a beautiful Autumn day or maybe the planets are aligned just right....or maybe it's both. Regardless, I feel good!

This is one of my new pieces, and I just love it! I usually don't comment on my own work, but I can't help myself. I love the way the crystals fall above the gorgeous glass leaf! You can see more photos at *The Jewelry Box.* I have to mention the leaf was made by a very talented friend of mine, Deronda. I really admire her awesome talent! You can check out more of Deronda's pretties at *Deronda Designs.* I'm off to enjoy this perfect day! :))

A Unique Seller

Please join me as I introduce Kristine of *Celtic Knot.*

Kristine has a variety of items in her shop, from earrings

to lucky stars. Read on to learn more about her!

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft?

I make earrings, bracelets, necklaces, keychains, bookmarks, wine glass charms, origami lucky stars, and glass pendants & magnets. I absolutely love creating new and unique items, and it's a great way to relax and unwind.

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy?

I first started making earrings to pass the time when my husband was on a deployment in the United States Navy. I soon received lots of wonderful compliments from friends, family, and strangers alike, and they all encouraged me to try my hand at selling my items. I looked at several different online venues, but as soon as I saw Etsy, I was hooked! This is such a wonderful community with amazingly talented artists, and I'm proud to be a member of that community. I am very grateful for Etsy, for not only have I met countless talented and sweet Etsians, but I am also able to make some money for doing the crafts that I love.

What is your best seller item right now?

My current best selling item is my origami lucky stars. They are so fun to make, and I love finding new and interesting paper to fold.

Please share your best marketing venue.

Word of mouth has been my best marketing tool as of yet, and passing out business cards to friends, family, and customers has definitely helped.

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found?

At the moment, I am only on Etsy at CelticKnot.etsy.com.

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops.

Here are a few Etsy shops that are dear friends, as well as shops that I greatly admire:FullHouseCrafts.etsy.com, CreativeHook.etsy.com, LostRiverRags.etsy.com, justinvining.etsy.com All of the sweet sellers at the HUG thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5897350&page=1

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business.

I have an elf ear.

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years?

In the next few years, I hope to have vastly improved my photography, and I hope to have some items in local shops.

Thank you Kristine!

Visit **Celtic Knot** today!

A Wonderful Seller

Join me, as I introduce Kristi of *zuzu girl.*

Kristi's shop if full of sweet, kid-approved, accessories

for the little princess in your life! Read Kristi's story

and become inspired. I know I did!

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft?

Zuzu girl handmade is a small collection of accessories for little princesses. Constructed mostly with yards & yards of beautiful ribbon, silk flowers, tulle, and a glue gun. We sell fairy princess halos, headbands, wands & movement rings. This collection was ignited by the awesome collision of boredom & inspiration. As a new stay at home mom, a former retail merchant, and a work-a-holic, I was longing for a creative outlet. When my daughter Zuzu started coming into her own as a little princess the concept of zuzu girl began to evolve. And it’s still evolving!

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy?

We were at a ballet class when the teacher handed out plastic shower curtain rings with crumpled gift ribbon tied on to them. This room of two year olds could not have been happier. I looked down at this cheap plastic thing in Zuzu’s hand and said, "I can do this…I can make them beautiful…and little girls everywhere will adore them!" And so, the zuzu girl magical movement ring was born. Once I started creating, I just couldn’t stop. I was making coordinating wands and headbands the very next day. I was already a big fan of Etsy as a buyer and figured…what have I got to lose?

What is your best seller item right now?

Funny, I still have yet to sell a set of movement rings, although I did just get a custom inquiry! The wands are our biggest hit right now.

Please share your best marketing venue.

We’re still a small operation. I market only on Etsy & my personal blog at this point.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business.

I have a sweet tooth like nobody’s business. I LOVE dark chocolate (and I don’t like to share) so I hide it behind the butter in the refrigerator where the kids can’t find it.

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops.

It’s so hard to narrow down, I find new favorites every day! I adore gigglinggoldfish for kid’s accessories. Lulucoco & Acornbeach for jewelry. And Sweetbeets & Boldandsassy for stationary.

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years?

Honestly, I’m really just making it up as I go along. I’d like to actually start making a profit but I just can’t seem to stay away from the craft stores. That would help. Over the next six months I’d love to build the Etsy business so that I have a steady flow of on-line customers and build the wholesale business to about six good accounts. I’ve got two kids at home with me so I think that’s about all I can handle on my own right now... but if the business happens to surprise me, well that won’t be such a bad thing.

"Thank you Kristi!"

Visit **zuzu girl** today.

Keep tuning in for more hot profiles all month long! :)

Soap GiveAway

Can you belive this adorable penguin is actually a bar of soap, handmade and scented with Lavender Essential Oil. And....even better, you could win it!! A very talented artisan I know, Patty, is having a *GiveAway* on her blog. All you have to do is pick your favorite soap from *Happy Goats Soap*, then leave your comment with your favorite choice on *Broken Teepee's Blog.* It's that simple! Besides, you can't win if you don't play! And...you get to pick which soap you would like! :)

Please join me as I introduce Johanna of *Jo's Goodies.* Just like her shop name, Johanna makes and sells delectable bath and body goodies. Everything in her shop is made with natural ingredients. Believe me, once you try her products, you will become a customer for life, and your body will thank you for it!

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft?

I make homemade luxurious bath and body goodies. My passion is driven by each time a customer praises my goodies. It always makes the hard work worth it.

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy?

Honestly, I haven't been on Etsy long, and actually it was my first step in getting my product "out there" so to speak. I tested on my friends and family, and they all loved it, so I did some research online and came across Etsy, and here I am :)

What is your best seller item right now?

My Organic Oatmeal Goat's Milk Bathing Bar. The greatest compliment to your shower!

Please share your best marketing venue.

Word of mouth.

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found?

I'm mostly on Etsy, and in local craft fairs, the next one will be Dec 20/21 @ the Brooklyn Lyceum.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business.

I'm a baker- in between my career in finance, and my new bath and body business, I can make a heck of a cheesecake :)

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years?

I'm hoping to expand my Etsy business and hopefully generate enough buzz around NYC to open up my own store front... another goal - to get on Oprah's "favorite things" show :) we can all dream can’t we?

Visit *Jo's Goodies* Today!

Thank you Johanna!

**Stay tuned for more hot profiles all month long**

GIVEAWAY THIS WEEK!

Members of the Artisan Beaders Street Team are sponsoring weekly giveaways of their fabulous handmade items. This week, Vicki of Orion Designs is giving away these gorgeous earrings, *Cocoa Waves Earrings!* They feature glass beads & natural brass, and they measure 5/8ths of an inch from the bottom of the earwire. Go here, for details on how you could win these beauties, and see samples of all the member's gorgeous items for your holiday shopping this year!

One Hot Profile!

Please join me as I introduce Misschell of *chinamommy!* Her shop is full of fun and whimisical yummies!

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft? I make a variety of things. I still feel like I'm trying to find my nitch. I make "Cutie~Cupcakes", "chandelier frames," and "button pendants"... as of today! The cupcakes combine my love of sculpture, collage, "stuff", and whimsy.

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy? I started on Etsy, because for the first time in my life, I don't have to work outside my home. I have a BA in Fine Art & haven't ever really used it. I love the idea of making something so cute, great, whimsical... whatever, that someone is willing to spend their hard earned $ on it, because they HAVE TO HAVE IT!

What is your best seller item right now? My button pendants are my best seller, partly because they are the first items I ever listed, and they're a quick, cute gift that's under $10!

Please share your best marketing venue. I've had a lot of luck by being on facebook! I also put a business card in EVERYTHING I send out (that's right, even the gals/guys at the electric company get one!). I blog: http://chinamommy04.blogspot.com/ & use that as my signature line on everything... I'm on myspace too: http://www.myspace.com/xiushui

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found? facebook (Misschell Myers-Shellenbarger), myspace, and my blog!

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years? Get more items listed, treat it more like a (fun) job, grow my sales- I'd love to sell several items EVERY day. I'd also like to really find my nitch & continue to improve my artistic skills.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business. I've known since I was about 8 that I wanted to adopt a little girl from China. Childbirth freaks me out, adoption was the only option for me! My daughter was 11 months when we met & she is just the BEST thing that ever happened to me. I wish more people would add to their families through adoption, it's an amazing thing!!

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops. wow... a few of my favorites: well, like so many, I love theblackapple and elsiecake. I also LOVE: papermoongallery, flutter, lake, iHotto... I could go on for days!

Thank you Misschell! Visit *chinamommy* today! Keep tuning in for more hot profiles all month long! :)

Another Hot Profile!

Please join me, as I introduce an amazing and inspiring Etsy Seller, Rebecca of *Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen!*

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft?

I make handmade soaps and lotions. I really love experimenting with new scents. My soaps are often referred to as different flavors rather than scents so, I think it's getting to experiment with new scents that really drives my craft.

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy?

I've been around on Etsy since it was in beta, however, this is the first year I've actually focused on selling on Etsy. I was able to get a little further ahead in my inventory this year so, I wanted to expand my revenue by really giving things a go on Etsy. The economy also had a play in this, as local sales are down right now from last year.

What is your best seller item right now?

My Falling for You Soap for Extra Dry Skin followed by the Raspberry Vanilla Soap and Lotion.

Please share your best marketing venue.

Word of mouth.

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found?

I also sell on the Roanoke City Market. Visit my blog for market dates.

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years?

Just to try to make a little more every year.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business.

I am bipolar and have agoraphobia.

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops.

http://haunt.etsy.com/ - For her skin gloss. http://cherryblossoms.etsy.com/ - For her merino wool socks. http://teaforallreasons.etsy.com/ - For her awesome teas.

Thanks to Rebecca for sharing! Visit *Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen* today. Keep tuning in for more hot profiles all month long! :)

Only 1 more day left...

to win a beautiful pair of aventurine and jasper pair of earrings from me! Go to the Artisan Beaders blog *Giveaway* post, and leave a comment on your favorite jewelry item from my Etsy Shop. That's all you have to do! The winner will be announced at 5pm tomorrow (Friday)! Can't win if you don't play! Keep checking the Artisan Beaders blog every week for new item giveaways from the talented members of the Artisan Beaders Street Team!

Hot Profile!

Join me as I introduce Teri of *S & T Creations!* What a fantastic and unique shop!! What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft? Our jewelry designs are mainly semi-precious gemstones and crystals. We began making jewelry designs so we could actually design our own pieces to match outfits, etc. From there, people began to notice what we made and the next "logical step" was to expand our work and begin to design for others. What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy? We decided that, in order to develop a business, we needed some regular sales venue. Before now, we've had our own open house shows once or twice a year, and our booth at craft fairs and shows. But, it was often difficult (I think more so for me than Saundra) to keep my enthusiasm for creating up when we might go some time between a show. So, this was a very large commitment that we made to develop an online store, a website, and a blog. I thought if I gave it 1 year, I'd have it going. Well, WRONG! This is a long term commitment, just as a brick and mortar store would be, so I've adjusted my plans! What is your best seller item right now? As always, our necklaces and necklace and earring sets are our design specialties. People will always pick up earrings and bracelets, but it's our chunky, large "WOW" designs that our customers love!

Please share your best marketing venue. Our home open houses have always done well, plus sporadic special events booth or tables. A recent fashion show this past year was a wonderful success.

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found? Our website: http://www.sandtcreations.com Our eSMarts Etsy Team Store: http://esmarts.etsy.com Our blog: http://www.sandtcreations.com/wordpress

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years? I really want to continue building the website, our etsy store, and our online social marketing connections, which is a core component of the goals of our Esmarts team. Beyond that, I would like to find 3 or maybe 4 large events (craft shows, art shows, etc) that we could attend annually. I find those truly inspire new ideas and force us to continue to grow our abilities and skills. For myself, I have 2 areas of skill development that I am very interested in. That is using recycled metal clay to create my own components and designs, and to add silversmithing skills to my work. I am looking for a way to actually begin to create and design my own settings, pendants, beads, rings, etc. I think this will improve my artistic development and allow me to make more personally aesthetic pieces for my customers. Plus, there are so many ways to create messages in that type of creativity, such as a love for nature, divine grace, love, etc.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn't involve your craft/business. Well, that has to be our collection of movies. My business partner, Saundra started WAY before me, and has a collection of over 8000 movies now. But, she got me started on old movies, and taught me about film noir. So, my collection is growing, at about 3000. I love "Katharine Hepburn" and "Sidney Poitier" the most, but I work on several mini- collections within my collection, such as documentaries, biographies, and true stories.

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops. The first has to be our *eSMarts team store.* We opened our team store just recently in order to donate items that, when sold, the proceeds would go to support a team cause or special fundraising project the team agreed upon. It's a wonderful idea and a great way to support others. http://esmarts.etsy.com The second is *Blue Bonnet Jewelry*, in particular "The Blue Skies and Dragonfly Bead Cuff Bracelet!" It's simply to die for! http://bluebonnetjewelry.etsy.comhttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13533984 Another is *Amor de Plata*, because they work in the recycled silver metal clay, and the pieces are simply beautiful, and inspiring to me, as I try to learn that medium. Check it out at : http://AmorDePlata.etsy.com Thank you Teri! Visit *S & T Creations * today! Keep tuning in for more hot profiles all month long!

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Please...if you havn't voted yet, go and DO IT NOW!!! This is such an important election and history in the making! I voted over a week ago with my mail-in ballot. Easier for me to vote that way since I don't drive that much anymore. Either way you vote, just make sure you vote! Today is the last day! This moment in time will be recorded in history books. It will be in our grandchildren's history books and our grandchildren's children's history books! It's up to US, the American people!! So...........do the right thing and GO VOTE NOW!!!

New GiveAway!

The Artisan Beaders are pleased to present a little holiday present from us to you! Over the next few weeks, participating members will be sponsoring a giveaway of their fabulous handmade items. And this week, you can win a fabulous pair of Aventurine & Fancy Jasper earrings from me! Check out the Artisan Beaders blog for all the details!

Hot Profiles!

Join me as I introduce Kristy Smith of *Shiny Adornments.* She is an amazing artisan, and her jewelry is beautiful, just like her!

What do you make, and what drives your passion for your craft? ShinyAdornments is artisan handmade beaded and wire wrapped jewelry, handcrafted in my Wichita, KS studio. I use sterling silver, gemstones, SRA lampwork, glass, and polymer clay beads. My jewelry shop includes bracelets, bangles, earrings, necklaces and cocktail rings for both work and play. I find inspiration in the wildflowers I drove past this morning on the way to work or the suit I just bought that needs the perfect accessory or the strange dream I had last night. I make jewelry I would wear myself. The materials depend on my mood and inspiration. My goal is to create wearable items for work and play that offer an interesting statement about the women who wear them.

What made you want to take your craft to the next level and sell on Etsy? I started making jewelry because I couldn’t find pieces to coordinate with my work attire. I discovered that I really enjoy the creative outlet. I’ve come to crave coiling wire, which I’ve discovered creates an almost meditative state. I also love being able to hammer components into submission. lol Creating little wearable expressions of color has become a stress reducing therapy for me. I was wearing the things I created to work and received lots of positive feedback, and sales! from my coworkers. It seemed a sensible step to create someplace to showcase them online, as many of the individuals I know aren’t in the same state.

What is your best seller right now? Locally, my charm and coin bracelets sell the best.

Please share your best marketing venue. I like blogging. Especially blogging about my team members. I'm a geek at heart, so all the online, technical stuff is the most promo fun for me.

Besides Etsy, where else can you be found? My website , My blog , and lots and lots of flickr pictures!

What are your goals regarding your business for the next few years? I would like to tweak my process enough that I am spending less time promoting and more time actually creating. I’m spending far less time on non-value adding activities now than I did at the beginning, so that’s a start. I’d also like to branch out into some local boutiques. I’d like to spend a lot more time with the torch. I’m fascinated by the whole fusing and soldering craft. I mean, there are just so many possibilities.

Tell one random thing about you that doesn’t involve your craft/business. I think Craig Ferguson, hands down, is the best late night talk show host on television.

Share a few of your favorite Etsy shops. I love the clock works of art from yeetufield.etsy.com. Normally, seed beads aren’t my favorite, but this artist belongs to the Starving Artists forum, and her series of bracelets just knocks my socks off. Here are some examples of her work. Yes, they are made from seed beads. Amazing!http://beadsbeadingbeaded.com/FSalvadorDaliErinMontage.jpg http://beadsbeadingbeaded.com/PhotoRibbonBracelets.jpg http://beadsbeadingbeaded.com/Beatlesfringed.jpg

Thank you Kristy!

Keep tuning in for more hot profiles all month long!

A Treasured Friend and TeamMate Passes

My good and very close friend, Cori of "CC Design," passed away early Monday morning from a brain anurisum. All of her team members from ABST are so very heartbroken. It's a truely sad day. We are going to miss Cori so so much. I became friends with Cori over a year ago. We emailed eachother all the time, then found ourselves talking on the phone at least twice a week. She lived in Missouri, while I reside in WA State, so we couldn't visit eachother everday like we wished we could. I know people come into our lives for a reason. You never know how long they will stay... maybe a day, a few months, or years. I feel so blessed to have known Cori and to have been a close friend. Something that maybe a lot of her online friends didn't know was that Cori had the most contagious laugh. And she could put a smile on my face on the worst day. She brightened my days, and I will miss her sooooo much. Dear sweet Cori....I will see you again one day. We will meet face to face and laugh again. Until then, you will be missed and always loved.........

It's Monday and You Know What That Means..........

A brand new *Giveaway* from the Artisan Beaders Street Team! This is the 2nd week of a series of fabulous giveaways of wonderful handmade items from the team. This week, you can win this gorgeous purple flower brooch from Meri of Elbit Enterprises!

Visit the team's blog for all the details. And while

you're at it, visit the Holiday Gift Guide for a jumpstart

on your holiday shopping. Peace!

Autumn has arrived...........

and the leaves are changing their colors to golden browns, soft oranges, and rich deep reds. This is my interpretation of capturing falling leaves and their changing Autumn colors. It is also part of the Artisan Beaders Street Team's October Challenge, "Fall Into Color." Citrine cubes, garnet triangles & leaves, and chocolate colored rounds surround a beautiful glass lampwork leaf with a tiny ladybug perched on it. The focal leaf was handcrafted by Deronda Designs. To see more of the lovely October challenge pieces, check out the team's Flickr page.

ABST Giveaway Winner is................

Natalie from "Adore by Nat!" Natalie won a beautiful pair of earrings from *Broken Teepee Designs.* Natalie was the first winner of more to come! There will be a new Giveaway each Monday till the end of the year. So pop on over for your chance to win a fabulous handmade item from the Artisan Beaders Street Team! If you're starting to do some holiday shopping, like I am, then you won't want to miss the Holiday Gift Guide. You can get a sneak peek of gorgeous handmade items with links to very talented artisans. Don't forget to buy handmade this holiday season! Peace!

I've been Tagged! Twice!!

That's right! Two very talented ladies that I am proud to call friends have tagged me; Brandi of "Brandi Girl" and Nicole of "Beadwright." Both of these ladies create beautiful handcrafted jewelry! Brandi's shop can be found here, and Nicole's shop can be found here. Okay...this is how this fun lil internet game works: 1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog. 2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird. 3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by including links to their blogs. 4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs. So...here goes! 1. I met my husband from the cb radio 13 years ago, and we've been married for 9 years now. 2. I was a proud single parent for the first 16 years of my son's life. 3. Regarding #2, I celebrated Father's Day for myself each year. 4. Back in Jr. High school, I won 1st place for the sketched pic for our annual address book cover, and I can't draw worth beans! 5. When I was a young teeneager (in the 70's) I actually thought I would grow up and marry Peter Frampton! Yes...this is fact! :)) 6. In the late 80's, I saw "Poison" in concert and got to party with them on one of their busses afterwards. Yes..I was a good girl! hehe... 7. And lastly, one of my necklaces will be published in the January 2009 issue of "Bead Trends." I am so happy about this wonderful thing that has happened to me! It makes me realize even more so that creating jewelry is what I'm supposed to be doing. I'm on the right path, and God and the angels are guiding me everyday. "I'm very very thankful for this awesome opportunity!!" So, there ya go! Now, you know 7 more things about me. Now, I'm going to tag the following 7 lucky people! Deronda - http://derondadesigns.blogspot.com/ Vicki - http://vickiorion.blogspot.com/ Cori - http://designsbycori.blogspot.com/ Marcy - http://studiomarcy.blogspot.com/ Meri - http://merigreenleaf.blogspot.com/ Jael - http://jaelsjewels.blogspot.com/ Lee - http://fivetoninedesign.blogspot.com/

Tis The Season For A GIVEAWAY!

Starting October 20th, *Artisan Beaders Street Team* members will be sponsoring a series of giveaways to celebrate the Holiday Season. New giveaways are posted each Monday, and winners are announced the following Friday. This week's giveaway item is a gorgeous pair of earrings from Broken Teepee Designs. They feature prasiolite (green amethyst), mystic blue topaz, and gold filled findings. Stop by our blog to view the earrings AND enter for your chance to win these beauties!

Look at the Artisan Beaders.............

brand new AD! Members of the Artisan Beaders Street Team have come together to provide customers a-one-stop-place on the web, making it easier to find all your holiday jewelry gift giving this year. Our new Holiday Gift Guide will show samples of each member's handmade items, such as, handmade earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and handcrafted glass and polymer clay beads. Each of these wonderful items is handmade with high quality materials and will make great gifts for the jewelry lover in your life! Please support artisans and buy handmade this holiday season! Peace!

ABST Holiday Gift Guide

The Artisan Beaders Street Team is...... Begin with a passion for beads. Combine with creativity. Mix with encouragement. The result is Artisan Beaders; a charismatic group committed to providing the knowledge, resources and support to help members succeed in their entrepreneurial dreams. If you are looking for quality, beauty, and an economical price for hand-crafted jewelry and beads this holiday season, then you will want to view The Artisan Beaders Street Team's Holiday Gift Guide. Not only will you find stunning items, you will also find unique individuals doing what they love and mastering the art of making amazing jewelry and beads. Support artisans and buy handmade this holiday season and receive one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces and beads.

October Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month,

I will be donating 15% of sales in my "PINK For The CURE"

section of my shop to the "Susan G. Komen for the CURE

Foundation." Go to "The Jewelry Box" and do your part to

help find a cure! Thank you!

The Boxes Are Ready!

The "Washington State Friendship Box " is now on sale, as of October, 1st, 2008! This is a perfect way for consumers to learn and sample hand-crafted items from talented artists throughout Eastern Washington State. Each box consists of approximately 1 dozen hand-crafted samples/items, ranging from stationary to decorative items, candles, jewelry, and much more! You can guarantee that each item in these fabulous boxes are handmade with love and a lot of care. Each artist has provided a quality sample of their item in these boxes. Go here and click on the "box" to view a sample of the current boxes for sale and info on purchasing. Shipping to Canada is also available! You can find a treat from me, "The Jewelry Box," in each of these boxes too, along with an adorable lil handmade box. So...check 'em out, and enjoy all of the wonderful samples from Eastern Washington State artists!

My First Craft Show Experience!

I just finished my very first craft show ever on September 13th,

and here’s my story. Grab a cup of coffee, because it’s long! Lol!

When I found out about the opportunity to actually sell my jewelry at a craft show, I realized I had just one month to get ready. So, I immediately started making my lists! I had an “everything needed for the show” list, a “tasks to do” list, and a “to buy” list. I’m a huge list maker, and if I was to get everything done in time, I needed all these lists! I began with my first list, by writing down all the items I needed, then I went through the list and checked off the items I already had. Such as, tables, chairs, material for table covers, bust displays, an earring display, and of course, jewelry! In order to obtain all the other items on my list, I began my 2nd list of “tasks to do.” I needed to design my own earring cards and jewelry tags, I needed a display for my bracelets, and I needed to sew my table covers. Since I only have 6 necklace bust displays, I needed something else to put the rest of my necklaces on. My husband ended up making some displays for me, and they were wonderful! And the most important thing was….they were cheap! We already had all the materials needed to make them. My 3rd list, the “to buy” list consisted of the materials I needed to buy. Such as, heavy cardstock for my earring cards and jewelry tags, photo-paper to print my business cards, earring card adapters for hanging my earrings, mirrors, bags to put purchased jewelry in, a receipt book, etc. I was able to purchase everything locally except for the earring card adapters. I bought those from “Rio Grande.” A package of 100 (2”x1/2”) for $6.67, without shipping costs. As I was completing all my tasks and checking them off the list with a huge smile on my face, I was creating more jewelry pieces too. I had around 70 pieces, but wanted to get up to at least 100. Well, I ended up with 104 pieces, and I was very proud of myself! As the show date got closer, I found myself getting more nervous. I didn’t sleep much the night before. I am so not a morning person, but when 5:30am came, I was wide awake, and more importantly, I was ready! We arrived at 7:15am, and choosing a spot was easy, since hardly anyone was there yet. It was easy getting set up, because the night before, I did a mock set up in my living room. I already knew how I wanted everything to look and be displayed. And…I left the necklaces on the bust displays, so all I had to do was pull them out of the plastic bags I had them stored in. I stored my mirrors in with my table covers, and had everything organized according to the mock set up. When people started to arrive and venture over to my space, I made sure I greeted everyone and told them to feel free to ask questions, and to not be shy and try on pieces. I had my business cards setting out and a journal for people to sign up for future business letters and holiday sale alerts. All in all, it went well, and my nerves eventually settled down. My husband helped a lot! And…he kept bringing me food samples from other venders, so I didn’t get hungry at all. I met and talked with a lot of people, and I got to meet some of my EWAET (eastern washington etsy team) members from Etsy.com. Lots of people complimented me on my set up, and that was nice to hear. I walked away with a few sales…mostly earrings, and I got a custom order for a necklace. I was thrilled with my results! I will be doing this again for sure! Some tweeking will be done for my set up, such as, having more trays and/or fancy bowls for people to rummage through. I found that people like to pick up the piece, feel textures, hold pieces in the light, and hold them up to themselves as they look in the mirror. I don’t think I’ll use as many necklace busts, as I found that people were afraid to touch them, and that was a huge turn off. My necklace display will be tweeked to stand on the floor instead of setting on the table. It was made to look like a painter’s easel. But it took up too much room. I think knowing what type of customers a show attracts is very important. This show had sort of a laid back feel to it. There were all natural foods, bags made from trees and bark, and going green was a huge factor. I feel that if I would’ve researched more beforehand about the style of the potential customer, I would’ve made hemp jewelry, and I probably would’ve sold more. Catch my drift? Anyway…a good plan for participating in a show is key. And for me, it involved making my lists. So, how ever you plan for a show, make sure you’ve covered all bases. You don’t want to spend your time worrying over something you maybe forgot to do or bring. When you’re prepared, you can enjoy yourself and have fun. Making sales is a great thing, but the experience is much greater!

I got.............

Profiled on Shiny Adornments Blog!!! I'm soooo happy!!! I've really enjoyed being interviewed and profiled lately. And I am so appreciative to everyone that has given me such a special honor. Kristy did an awesome job on my profile, and I hope that you will stop by and take a peek. I feel very honored to be profiled by Kristy. You might want to check the rest of her blog too. She is an amazing person, and I'm proud to call her my friend! :)

Looking for Wine Charms?

These are so adorable! And perfect for adding a special touch to your wine bottles, liquor bottles, oh heck...any bottles you want! :)) You can find them here. The charms are glass, and the grapes in the 2nd photo are a lovely patina brass. These are so fun to make that I think I'll make more! :)

Interviews & Features

Thank you so much to Ruthie for my interview on her blog, "Rose Works Jewelry." You can also see it on "Skwiggle Kreationz." I have also had the pleasure of being featured on the "Eastern Washington Street Team" blog. "Thanks to Cherie and Ruthie!"

My First Craft Show!!!

If you happen to be in Spokane, Washington on Saturday, September 13th, then you don't want to miss the "2nd Saturdays Craft Fair" at 2015 N. Division. Along with my handmade jewelry, there will be lots of different vendors with a variety of handmade crafts. The hours are 10am to 7pm, with live music beginning at 11am. Booths and tables will be set up inside the warehouse and the alley-way. For my booth, there will be quite an assortment of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings for sale. I will be featuring a "Treasure Chest" filled with jewelry at low prices. This will be my first craft show/fair, and I do hope you will stop by and take a peek. Besides, how can you find that perfect item you're looking for if you don't explore all your options. *wink..wink" :-)) "Happy Shopping!"

Sagegold Soaps

Okay...I received some soap from this gal (Kerry), and you have got to try it! I used the "Oatmeal, Milk, & Honey" and it is great for people with sensitive skin, such as myself. Listen to some of the ingrediants; olive oil, goat milk, cocoa butter, shea butter, ground oats, etc. These are just some of the natural ingrediants she uses in her hand crafted soaps. And...her prices are very affordable. You can find her at her Etsy Shop and her online site.

Artisan Beaders Mission

This is The Artisan Beaders Street Team's awesome mission statement! written and composed by Ainsley of "Kaskaad!" Begin with a passion for beads. Combine with creativity. Mix with encouragement. The result is Artisan Beaders; a charismatic group committed to providing the knowledge, resources and support to help members succeed in their entrepreneurial dreams. Artisan Beaders: Infinite Inspiration. I LOVE it! :-)