Oh, to be so pulled together!

I have returned.

2009-03-27T10:22:00.000-04:00

To those of you who follow me, I offer an apology for having not written. It has been a couple months now, and honestly the whys of having not matter not. But it has not been time wasted. I have grown as an artist during this time, as well as a person and a wife. We have had more life changes than were imagined just two months ago, and so are riding the roller coaster of life. So, I will have to work hard to get back into the habit of writing.

For a start I am going to post you three articles this weekend. The first is simple and some what vain. Here I will provide to you pictures of my recent work to let you know I haven't been sitting around twiddling my thumbs! In my second article, you shall see that even my love affair with the indie community has continued, as I provide to you a list of awesome mothers day presents to consider. And for today's finale, I have save the treat. A new interview, one of my favorites for sure, and one I have wanted to do for so long. I will save the details to surprise you later. On with the show!

I still LOVE handmade.

2009-03-27T05:09:00.008-04:00

There is no better way to put it. The longer I am an artist, the more I adore artists. The more skills I learn, the more I envy those I see elsewhere. And the more creations I am fortunate to view or ever so blessed to own, the more I hunger to share the beauties I cross with the world.

As Mother's Day approaches, I have begun to shop early. I always try to, in case my inner fire sparks with inspiration of something to create her myself. This year, though, my fires are burning almost rampantly, with way more begging to come out of me than I can manage. I dream of the day that I can hire elves to produce my lovelies in the evening whilst I dream of them.

Anyway, when you are considering your mother today, begin to consider her needs, her loves, her personality. And consider then how many of these she cannot continue to live with out, and how quickly she will fall in love with any of these beauties. This year really try to present her with a token of your love, not just another another shelf-sitting, dust-collecting, run-of-the-mill Thing.

For the mother who loves her career.
Keep her desk as attractive and organized as she is.

For the mother who loves to bake.
Deliciously cute cupcake containers, usable for so many other things.

For the mother who loves to create.
A feminine set for repairing or creating, which will always keep her organized.

For the mother who is always in style.
A beautiful red poppy tote bag, perfect for carrying her new purchases.

For the mother who loves her tea.
Amazing flowers that bloom in the water while creating the perfect tea.

For the mother who has everything.
A custom drawing from one of your mother's favorite photos.

I HAVE kept busy.

2009-03-27T05:07:00.009-04:00

As you know, I returned to school this term for another goal at finding the right fit of a career for me. Most of these pieces are carry over from what I produced there in Illustration classes, and many of these I may use in my professional portfolio later on.

I have enjoyed doing some of these styles so much that I have begun searching out people to commission me to do more. I am also creating similar pieces for gifts. Look forward to more this year family!

One of my favorite new things lately is creating terrariums. I have never had a green thumb. I don't think I can emphasize the never part enough. I buy a couple small plants a year, and make my efforts, but always my flaky forgetfulness ends up foiling my plans. This year, after viewing so many terrariums lately on Etsy, I decided to start easier (and so much cooler) than one plant that depends totally on me. A mini eco-system that supports itself is so much more ...convenient for me! This is just one of them (I have about 6 right now), next to one of the only plants that has survived me more than a year!
Of course I am still creating jewelry, but I am sad to admit it has been a bit on the back burner. But a good ol' friend from college recently commissioned me to create a set of jewelry for his girlfriend's birthday. This is the pair of earrings, of which I fell in love with and if I ever get my ears pierced, will probably make a pair of these for myself.

This is a pen & ink portrait I stipled for Illustration class. It is my niece Brianna, of who you can see pictures of on my Facebook page. Let me know if you can't find me there for some reason! (Currently, it is on display at the school. Yay!)

This is a linocut I created for school. It is a piece from a three part series, and one of the pieces, an all black print is also on display. If you are not familiar with linocuts, I carve into a block, roll it with ink on top, and press the paper to it. Time consuming, but I love how they look.

I enjoyed doing the linocuts so much that I decided to branch out. This is one I created after my sister's college graduation, for my grandmother and aunt (the women on the left and right, respectively).

This is a portrait of my husband I created for Illustration, made by layer different colored papers. I love looking at his beautiful face.

This is also a paper-cutting, with looots of layers. The purpose of this piece was to be a stamp series illustrating how adults should teach children to appreciate nature, and each corner represents a single stamp.

This is part of a four piece paper-cutting series, concerning the color wheel and how to pair up colors. Elementary, my dear Watosn.

Thanks for lookin!

Strike Again!!!

2009-01-08T12:37:00.003-05:00

It's official, I quit my job. This past Friday was the last day, and since then, I've been a busy little bee on the million projects I have built up. But not today. Today I am tired and lazy. Still working sort of, but taking it easy-ish.

Since I quit my full-time job to go to school full-time, I am going to have to make some more money. I have been brainstorming and have fabricated a new idea! It is something I will put on Etsy, but will also try to sell around town to a couple shops. How great would that be? I am making a couple test subjects for myself and a friend to, um, test out, enjoy, and see how they go over. She doesn't know yet what's going on, so I get to give her a gift for being so always supportive too!

Anyway, I'm not going to tell you anything until I get these first two done, so stay tuned for more details!

Christmas Presents and the Big Disappointment

2008-12-23T21:20:00.004-05:00

I started so early. I had so many ideas. And so much eagerness. I dreamed of creating all of my christmas gifts this year. But I failed. My family is just tooooo big. Come on, we are talking, like, 20 people. I went a little easy and ruled out the people like my brothers-in-law and baby nieces who would have no appreciation for a homemade gift, so that ruled out...5. Then a couple of the non-immediate family members were going to get family gifts. So, that narrowed it down a little more. But there are a few people whose gifts I still just do not have time to finish. Granted I could be working rather than typing this, but I am bummed, and tired, and sore. I am decided a couple gifts will just be put off til birthdays, or next Christmas, or maybe even given unfinished. Bummer.

Here are a few of the gifts I did finish, and I will post more as I finish them.

For Lucas's Grandmother
(This is a Family Tree bracelet that has a gemstone representing every member of the family, size according to generation, and grouped by immediate families. I will also soon post in my shop as an item I will make custom also)

For Aunt Sherrill
(This is a super cute set I bought before my brilliant make-it-all idea, and so I found a way to spiff it up with a mug-cozy, to keep from burning hands w/ hot tea!)

For my cousin Paul, and his family (Melissa, Max, and Annie)
(A store bought blanket that I embroidered sort of, and then refolded it inside out so none of the handywork can be seen. The surprise is inside!)

New Artist Interview: Buttons&Rainbows

2008-12-21T23:33:00.015-05:00

Artist: Sara Ortiz of Illinois
Stores: www.buttonsnrainbows.etsy.com
www.buttonsnrainbows.com
Blogs: www.buttonsnrainbows.blogspot.com www.thedanvilleventure.blogspot.com

I have had the pleasure of talking to Sara online some lately and she has such wonderful ideas about bringing out everyone's creative sides. She would love to share this dream with adults and children all over the world and you can learn more about this, as well as her own eminently creative side on her personal website and blogs.

What do you make?
I hand-paint children's clothing mostly. I also have stationary, plushy key chains for babies and toddlers to play with, crocheted bracelets, felt bookmarks and 3-D cut paper art. All of my creations are made with the goal of bringing creativity, texture and color back into our child’s lives.

What inspired you to start selling your work?
A little creature names Herbert. He’s a little green guy that came to me one day so I painted his portrait on a t-shirt and I thought to myself that I should share him with others. And then I thought wouldn’t it be nice to have your imaginary friend with you at all times, no matter your age? So this thought process snowballed into Buttons & Rainbows.

Are your items sold at any brick and mortar stores?

Yes, I live in a small town called Danville, IL. We have many cute family owned stores. I am selling at a children’s bookstore called Blue Kangaroo and a café called Brewstar.

What is something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do or make?
This list is endless. Let’s see, I would love to learn: how to fly, screen-printing, astrology, jewelry making, how to sail a boat, quantum physics, to speak French fluently, how to fix a car, how to make a killer Boston Cream cheesecake (like the one from The Cheesecake Factory), how to do the splits, I think I’m going to stop there.

How did you learn the (main) skill you sell in your shop?
My mom taught me how to crochet and I have continued to learn on my own through the internet and magazines. I taught myself how to paint and draw. I just clear my head and start moving my pencil over paper and just go with whatever comes out. The thing I had to learn most was letting myself get into the flow and not having preconceived notions or being scared of it not looking “right”.

Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day, or during creative slumps?
I either walk or just drive around my town. Most often when I get to our downtown area I am filled with all the history and potential that our town has to become great again that my brain just starts firing away and I can’t wait to get home to get it all down on paper and start working.

If you could be doing anything anywhere you want in 5 years, regardless of your current life, what would you be doing?
Celebrating the publication of my second children’s book and my first novel in Paris, while I speak French with Johnny Depp at a café. (I don’t ask for much!)

How do you promote your shop to the world?

Mostly word-of-mouth. I have less than $200 in my business account so advertising is non- existent. Selling at Brewstar and Blue Kangaroo has helped. I also try to participate in any event I can here in Danville. That helps to get the word out too.

Outside of your shop life, what else do you do?

I work part-time for my dad at his computer shop. I do a lot of volunteering with the Boys & Girls Club. I’m working on a children’s book and am starting to write a young adult novel. I love talking philosophy with my husband and I love to read.

What kind of things do you have planned for the future of your business?
I want my products to inspire and spark creative thought in children so I am starting to design creations that have a more interactive quality to them and enable the child to use as well as play and experiment with them. I’m also working on designs that are more grown-up but still playful in order to bring out the child in adult as well.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received, regarding business or otherwise?
A friend once told me to not worry about where the money is coming from or how you will get it. As long as you are passionate about what you do and find your little piece of the world, riches will find you.

My fabulous new friend Sara wants to share her creative wares with you and is generously offering 30% off her entire shop thru the end of this month! There is still time to get those last minute Christmas presents, ya know, for the friend you forgot or the family that is suddenly coming to town now! When you check out, use the coupon code SuzLuc, and don't yet pay. Sara will adjust the invoice for you or get back to you about other options!

Even more exciting, Sara has a new product to introduce called Bits & Pieces and she would like to give it to you for free! It is an awesome kit she has put together for children's parties Anyone who makes a purchase through the end of January will be entered, and a name will be drawn on February first! Please refer to her main website for more information, and check back soon for pictures!

Wrist Wear

Chair of Goodies

Dedicated, hard-working Bianca

Need a Gainesville Apartment?

2008-12-17T13:22:00.008-05:00

That's right!

I have an apartment on my property that my best friend is moving out of and is now for rent. This is a horrrrible thing to do to my beloved blog, but I have such limited access at work and am eager to get these pictures up somewhere soon! (And this provides a great way for apartment looker's to learn about me!) I will leave out the gory details, but if you are interested just email me for more information.

Front view of house

One corner of main room

Bath

Small piece of the back yard.

If you are intersted and have not seen the add, check out Gainesville, FL Craigslist, and apartments. Or just email me for more info!

Monthly Goals

2008-11-29T22:15:00.003-05:00

Like 95% of America I'm sure, I suck at sticking to New Year's Resolutions. So, instead of even attempting, I am going to make monthly resolutions. The goal is that I will see how life is on the other side of that missing object or goal, and by the end of the months, maybe I will have formed a few new habits.

One other change to the traditional New Year's Resolutions, I am starting now. I will have a practice month, from Thanksgiving (2 days ago) to Christmas. The goal I am setting for this month is simple: to do something nice for somebody different everyday. Care to join me?

After Christmas, I will sit down and form my list of monthly goals for the year of 2009. Seeing as I need to loose weight and am hopelessly addicted to a few food and drink items, I will focus a few months goals on avoiding those certain items. Other goals will focus around things to improve habits, my relationships, my home, the earth, etc. I am taking suggestions!

The Gator Craze

2008-11-19T15:14:00.008-05:00

I reallly dislike alligators, so much so that I've had nightmares about them since I was a kid. Guess it has to do with living in central Florida, and all the crazy amounts of gators in every pond and lake. Anyway, I happened to move to and marry the love of my life in Gainesville, the home of the UF Gators, so now I see them every where!

This I found at Snopes.com, its a snake that must have burst while eating a gator. Go snakes!

My husband, who is not really a huge football fan, is however, full of community spirit. When I began taking the jewelry casting class I asked him if he would wear a ring made by me. and to my surprise he said yes! This answer was like a gift to me, because the only jewelry he wears is his wedding ring! I was so excited to design the ring, and then I began to worry maybe he wouldnt like it if i just surprised him. So, after consulting him on the design, I decided to go with a subtle alligator sticking out of the water.

Picture this head, from the side on top of the ring, with a piece of its back behind the head, and the tail coming out of the water in front of its head. Confusing, I know.

Tonight, I will actually be casting the ring, the hard work is done! All that remains is polishing and cleaning (and sawing off the excess metal from the casting process). But now, after seeing the beauty that thing ring became in wax form, I wonder if i could really sell these in stores! I am so proud of my design and believe that this is especially the town, or even state, for people to want them! So now I will be looking into companies that would actually produce my ring for me, and places willing to either buy them or consign them! How cool would that be!

People are just so facinated by these dangerous creatures!

______________________________________________________________

UPDATE

______________________________________________________________

This ring has become Lucas's new love. And I gotta say, I love how it turned out! Take a look for yourself!

Looking towards the face, and the tail wrapping around the ring,

ending in front of the face

The back of the gator and the back of the head

Side view of the ring, with tail on left, head on top, and back of gator on right

New Artist Interview: FRIAGO

2008-11-04T14:24:00.016-05:00

Artist: Francisca de Souza of Fort Lauderdale, FL

Stores: http://www.friago.etsy.com/,,
http://www.friago.com/

Blog: http://blog.friago.com/

Being a jewelry maker myself, I don't usually select other jewelry makers to interview, but Francisca's jewelry is fresh, simple, and quiet elegant. It's hard to pass through her shop and not fall in love with at least a few possible wardrobe-staples.

1.What inspired you to start selling your work? I love making jewelry. It doesn't so much seem like work to me. I was working full-time when I decided to start selling. A few months later, getting laid of from my job really gave me the push I needed to really dive head first into it.

2.What is something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do or make? Ceramics & Pottery are so beautiful to me. I would love to take a class one day.

3.How did you learn the (main) skill you sell in your shop? I am self taught when it comes to jewelry making. I love accessories and had a bit of a hard time trying to shop for things that were a reflection of me. I think that my design background (in architecture) has helped me to become a better jewelry designer.

4.Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day, or during creative slumps? One thing I cannot do is design on command! I am inspired by so many things. Of course architecture….but also art, photography, people I meet, nature, and everyday situations. I often design for places; meaning, what jewelry is appropriate to wear to the supermarket, a wedding, to have a cocktail, etc....

5.How do you promote your shop to the world? I do a ton of promoting: in forums & chats on Etsy, through family and friends, through networking sites like facebook and myspace, and through my blog and other blogs. I've met some wonderful artists so far.

6.If you could be doing anything anywhere you want in 5 years, regardless of your current life, what would you be doing? In 5 years I would love to be a mommy to at least 2 gorgeous babies, an even better wife than I am now, and to still be happy & healthy.

7.Outside of your shop life, what else do you do? At the moment there isn't too much going on outside of my shop life other than family time and the occasional short vacation. Having a business is more than full-time for me. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I have the freedom of owning my own business and doing what I love with the support of my husband and family.

8.Please tell us 5 things about yourself that most people don't know. (Make it intersting!)

9.What kind of things do you have planned for the future of your business? I am currently expanding my business plan to include selling at local boutiques, I have already included wristlet clutches to the Friago collections, but have yet to debut them, and I would love to get into clothing one day.

10.What other information would you like to provide shoppers about your shop? You'll find more and more pieces where I have mixed metals. I love the clean lines of a sophisticated piece of jewelry that can be worn everyday. I adore big bold pieces, but lately I've gravitated toward cleaner, simpler designs.

11.What is the best piece of advice you've ever received, regarding business or otherwise?
1. Patience is a must! This one has been extremely hard for me!
2. Always keep your business hat on no matter where you are, Friago is always being represented by me.

Francisca has offered a couple coupons as a thank you for reading about her new shop! This is just in time for Christmas shopping, so take advantage!
Mention the coupon code, and remember not to pay until she has sent you an adjusted invoice!

New Project

2008-10-22T10:14:00.007-04:00

I am proud to announce I am starting a new line of products for my shop!

I am creating children's artwork, made of felt. Their purpose will be created in a way to inspire story telling in children and families, and will feature various scenes for each "Story". Most pieces will be rather simple, yet symetrical and balanced. They will all be framed w/ glass, and will be meant to last.

My new beauties won't officially be revealed for sale until closer to Christmas. I will then post one "Story", complete w/ four pieces for sale seperate or together at a discount. Come the Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival here in April of 2009, I hope to present more "Stories", as well as a couple larger, one-of-a-kind, special addition pieces.

I am very excited about how this project is beginning. I have looked around for other people that offer similar items and have turned up virtually nothing! I want you to get excited to so I am going to show you the beautiful work of some other felt artists, even though it be quite different from my own!

Euphie Guinea Pig by FireHorseTextiles

Hamsters are in the animal kingdom, equivalent to what a slap bracelet is in the jewelry world: an essential to ever child's development. But if your child is allergic, or you just want to commemorate the passing of you favorite childhood hamster, this felt picture would probably do the trick.

Cherry Blossom Pin, white, by lupin

What a beauty this is! It almost looks like a real flower, let alone the felt that it is! And how cute would this be in your hair!

Colour Wave Felt Toy - Blue by Muju

This felt robot alien creature is possibly one of the coolest things I've ever seen. I envy the maker. I wonder if she would like to do an interview with me...

Squids Garden Original Art Piece by FaffCreations

How cute! It's so intricate and well laid out. This is currently the only one she has on her website, but I do hope she posts some new scenes as well!

I'm Soooo Excited!!

2008-10-22T09:31:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday. What that translates into is School Day. And what excites me so about school? Today I will walk away with my very first (and second) hand-cast Sterling Silver jewelry of my own design. I will have in my possession a chilli pepper that I will be turing into a tie tack for my father (don't tell Dad!) and a beautiful flower ring which I designed for myself.

This is a very lame-o picture that gives you an idea what my awesome ring will look like. Do not be shaken by the lameness of the computer drawing, it does not reflect the coolness of the sterling silver obviously!

The Return To Drama

2008-10-08T08:29:00.004-04:00

So, technically I've back at work for awhile, and but I'm disappointed that already the vaca. vibes have worn off! Solution: vacation more! (This weekend, we are taking a day+ off to go to halloween horror nights and have another mini vaca.)

While we were up in beautiful South Carolina, we had a great time, and it was the most relaxed I've been in a long while! I refused to think about work, school, or anything that could cause stress. Even money. We had a credit card cleared off and ready for just that trip, so we didn't have to worry about screwing money things up somehow! We're very good at that part. We did however talk about our house. We love our house; it's really a slightly pathetic house though as we bought a fixer-upper a couple of years go and our fixing up has been limited so far. We do a little bit at a time but we have got to get on the ball.

Being in the beautiful blank-canvas hotel we were staying at reminded us of the clutter at home and the stress is reflects back. Empty areas are much better at absorbing my stress when I am in my house. It needs to be a calm place!

So, since we've been back, besides all the regular work, school, and obsessive amounts of art projects I've been working on, I have been focused on Spring Cleaning. When I say Spring Cleaning, I mean, gettin rid of everything that takes up too much space, doesn't get used regularly, looks funny, smells funny, etc. My worst downfall is when it comes to gifts. Much of my inner being wants to be a minimalist. But I have so much appreciation for people that care about me that I feel obligated to keep their gifts for at least a certain amount of reasonable time. I try to enjoy the gift, even if it doesnt seem to fit my particular tastes right off the bat, and then at the end of a years time or so, I can assess whether I'd like to keep it around or not, without feeling guilt.

Anyway, I have accomplished the cleaning out of one room thus yet, almost entirely, and would like to begin room two this weekend. Who knew cleaning would be so slow. But I am condensing my items and organizing properly, and am proud of myself for it. I even plan to hold a yardsale at the end of next month. This will help me stay focused, and maybe buy some groovy Closetmaid for my house afterwards!

New Artist Interview: SilverOpal

2008-09-25T10:15:00.019-04:00

Artist: Meilikki Grondin of Braintree, MA

Store: http://www.silveropal.etsy.com/

1.What do you make?
I make all sorts of opal jewelry set in sterling silver.

2.Are your items sold at any brick and mortar stores?
I am currently in negotiations with a shop on the beach in New Port Rhode Island.

3.What inspired you to start selling your work?
I ended up getting so many requests for my pieces; It was the logical next step.
I thoroughly enjoy getting up everyday and working with the most gorgeous stones on earth!

4.What is something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do or make?
I want to learn any and all old crafts, weaving, pottery, hedge craft etc.

5.Do you sell at festivals or markets? How does this compare to online sales?
I am looking into selling at King Richard's Faire in Carver Massachusettes, on weekends in September and October.
6.Outside of your shop life, what else do you do?
I act, sing and dance for fun.

7.What has been your biggest ever sale?
A four inch pendant with brilliant opal teardrops. It sold for $750.

8.What kind of things do you have planned for the future of your business?
In the near future I plan on opening a shop to sell renaissance jewelry and in the distant future I plan to make custom bridal jewelry in opals.

9.What other information would you like to provide shoppers about your shop?
The vast majority of opal jewelry is made in Australia; I make all my pieces here in the USA.
I only sell jewelry that is silver in colour, sterling, white gold, platinum etc. No yellow gold.

10.What is the best piece of advice you've ever received, regarding business or otherwise?
Get right in there and study all you can about the other companies in your field, see what you can expect and what really works.

11.Do you have a blog or any other websites? Let me know so I can make them known!
I am planning on opening up a site on Silveropal.com in a few months so keep a lookout!

In celebration of October's birth stone (Opals!), Meilikki has graciously offered a grand coupon!

Please use the code SuzLuc in the message to seller when you make your purchase, and do not pay until Meilikke has sent you a new invoice.

Vacation Time

2008-09-25T09:37:00.004-04:00

My husband and I have finally reached our 5th wedding anniversary! Can you believe it? I breathe a sigh of relief for some odd reason. To celebrate it and the fact that this will probably be the last year we can before we have kids, we are going on a vacation.

We were very lazy in making plans and took the easy way out which means going to Greenville, SC. It's a beautiful place with lots of neat things to do around it. But it wont top last year's vacation, we took a cruise and it was just marvelous. But this year will be relaxing, with a hint of adventure (we may take a hour hike to a waterfall or something).

I am very excited to leave for Greenville, I am very excited for even tomorrow to end so I can switch into vaca. mode. I am there in spirit already and I have my mind tethered to my body with a fraying lasso, that won't hold much longer. I am ready to go relax.

New Artist Interview: Little Monkey

2008-09-17T16:18:00.009-04:00

Artist: Jackie of New York

Store: http://www.littlemonkey.etsy.com

As fall is coming I decided another artist who knows the value of a good quality scarf was in order. Aside from that she has beautiful shots of things she is truely inspired by in her new town and elsewhere.

1. Sum up your current life in one sentence.
My life is a crazy whirlwind; I never know what is coming next!

2. What do you make?
My first love is photography. I love going out and exploring new places and taking LOADS of pictures. This is the majority of what I am offering on Etsy. I hate to be idle, so I am often exploring other mediums and that has led to the knitting and crocheting. I make handknit scarves, hats and some baby items like mittens and booties. At various times, I also do some painting and drawing.

3. What inspired you to start selling your work?
I started using my photographs as a way to decorate the bland walls of my very white apartment. Everyone who came in (from friends and acquaintances to the UPS delivery man) all assumed that was what I did for a living, so I decided to sell some prints.

4. What is something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do or make?
I would love to try learning metalwork. This is one thing I have never done, despite forays in glass, wood, fabric, etc. One of these days….

5. How did you learn the (main) skill you sell in your shop?
My mother taught me to knit and crochet when I was little, and I decided to try it again a couple of years ago. Turns out, it’s like riding a bike – as soon as I picked up the needles, it all came back! The photography is self taught.

6. Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day, or during creative slumps?
Whenever I am blocked, I have to go somewhere outdoors. I love parks or any green spaces, and places near the water are great. Since moving to New York, the Brooklyn Bridge is my new love – all the bridges are really a great inspiration; the sheer magnitude is staggering.

7. If you could be doing anything anywhere in 5 years, regardless of real life, what would that be?
If money and reality were no object, in five years I would be living in Southern Italy in a little cottage on the sea, with olive trees and rosemary everywhere!

8. Do you sell at festivals or markets? How does this compare to online sales?
I have just moved to New York, so I haven’t had much chance to get my work out yet, but I have participated in the Artists & Fleas Market in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This is an awesome, year-round, indoor market with fantastic artists from the New York area. I was really pleased with the results.

9. Outside of your shop life, what else do you do?
I am a graduate student at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, studying Urban Planning. This takes up a fair amount of my time, but I really love it, and Brooklyn is such an inspiration for my studies. From my apartment, I can see the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges, as well as the Empire State Building – it’s an awesome and humbling thing to wake up to every day.

10. What kind of things do you have planned for the future of your business?
I would like to use some of my imagery in other projects – possibly apparel or accessories. The idea is not fully formed yet; I am sure late one night, I will get some inspiration and a few weeks later you will see it in my shop!

11. What is the best piece of advice you've ever received, regarding business or otherwise?
I think the best piece of advice I have received is to just “go for it”. Even if you don’t sell a single thing, expressing yourself is SO important. You may be surprised – other people do tend to appreciate your work.

Jackie has kindly offered a coupon for you to save on both her scarves and her prints, just for reading this interview!

When you have finished your shopping, please enter coupon code SuzLuc into the message to seller at the final purchase. Do not pay until she sends you an updated invoice with your great deal!

Terribleness

2008-09-16T18:07:00.004-04:00

Ohhhhhhh (she sighs with a bit of groaning from inside), it's miserable being sick. Last night I felt cold, ridiculously, unendingly cold. And I shivered til I cried. I slept under 5 blankets. And I mean thick, hand-crocheted yarn blankets. This morning after a great nights sleep (thank God for Advil) I almost went to work but decided to play it safe and stay in. Sorry co-workers, I know you missed me. Thank goodness I did tho, I feel just as rotten still as I did last night. Very feverish, alternating every hour or so from hot and soaked in sweat to freezing (I pulled on a knit sweater and pants and laid on my front lawn in the sun at the hottest part of the day to warm up; it was an unsuccessful effort).

So what did I do all day? Well, I slept alot, watched a favorite movie (Anne of Green Gables, which I watch at the beginning of every fall) and tried to accomplish something useful. Basically, I just fiddled online though. It was useless. I feel dizzy walking, and my hands feel to weak to master my tools in my usual way, besides the fact that I don't feel the slightest bit creative when all I can think about is blahhhhhhh....

Sorry. Even my blog today lacks joy and effort. To make up for this, I can promise you a new interview coming soon with another new artist. Check back for this in a couple days when I (hope, dream, and wish) will feel better.

New Artist Interview: Ingersworld

2008-09-12T00:24:00.008-04:00

Artist: Ingermaaike from Harpefoss, Norway

Stores: http://www.ingersworld.etsy.com, http://www.ingermaaike.etsy.com
Blog: http://www.ingermaaike.nl

I love a good quality toy! I had so many when i was a child that still remain in my possession. I have recently become a little obsessed with findin other unique, quality children's toys. I believe Ingermaaike of Ingersworld is creating beauties that will last for years to come, making memories for so many children that hug them into their adult years!

1.Sum up your current life for us in one sentence.
I am a fanatical felter who loves to experiment and push at the boundaries. Mainly self-taught, as I am too contrary to be taught.

2. What do you make?
I make fiber art of all kinds. In my store I sell toys of felt and I have another store where I sell mostly scarves.

3.Are your items sold at any brick-and-mortar stores?
I have plans to do so in the future but for now Etsy is my only venue.

4.What is something you've always wanted to learn how to do or make?
I would love to learn to work metal, the real smithing of large objects.

Herbert, the deepsea flobberworm

5.How did you learn the skill you sell in your shop?
I followed a one-day workshop once, and understood the principle of how felting works; the rest is history.

6.If you could be doing anything anywhere you want in 5 years, regardless of your current life, what would you be doing?
I have just moved from the Netherlands to Norway, and in 5 years time I would love to have refurbished our barn so I can start a real B&M store there, selling creations from my European teammates there as well.

7. Do you sell at festivals or markets? How does this compare to online sales?
I have been to one fair so far and sold really well. I have yet to meet the right people here. But will certainly be attending fairs here in Norway too. It is great fun to actually meet the people who want to have what you have made.

8.Outside of your shop life, was else do you do?
I am a mother of three boys, a wife, and love to be able to fill my days with crafting and messing in and around the house.

9.What has been your best sale?
Sometimes I will get a return customer that is so enthralled with what I make that they come back time and again. They keep me going on and on.

10.What other information would you like to provide shoppers about your shop?
It is a shop that will evolve over time as I never make the same twice, keep an eye on it and be surprised.

The mouse that would

Interview With, Well, Me!

2008-09-10T15:39:00.006-04:00

I am going to be featuring new artists soon, and as a sample and beginning, I decided to feature myself so that you can learn more about me!

1.Sum up your current life in one sentence.
I have finally discovered who I am and what makes me happy; while this does not tell me what I will be doing 10 years from now, it sure fulfills me daily, which makes me a better wife, a more excited friend, and a happier person all around.

2. What do you make?
I make so much stuff and every 6 months, get the urge to learn a new skill! But as of right now, I paint, draw, pastel, woodwork, stained glass, bead, sew, quilt (a tiny amount, still learning), and um, well i forget what else. But I am also learning to cast jewelry out of molten metal!

3.What inspired you to start selling your work?
Stuck in a retail job that I thought would lead to a fullfilling businesss management career, I lost interest and filled my time with learning a new craft (jewelry). With business, design, and people skills under my belt (as well as many big sales through coworkers), i decided to officialize my self as a super small business owner and start a real shop. I am pushing hard to make this fit my income needs so that when i go to school ft in spring i won't have to go to another crappy part time job!

4.What is something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do or make?
I dream constantly. At the top of my current list is metal fabrication and jewelry casting, flying planes, and latin dancing.

5.How did you learn the (main) skill you sell in your shop?
I picked up a box of beads at a yardsale, stole a pair of plyers from my husband and set to work playing until I learned how to create good quality jewelry. Now and then I do peruse magazines, websites, and other for inspiring ideas or even simply beautiful things to look at.

6.Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day, or during creative slumps?
Everywhere! A favorite pen and how it fits my hand even cheers me! Trees and shade on a warm day, a well designed website with groovy items, the kindness of a stranger, the hugs of my husband or kisses from my cat.

7.If you could be doing anything anywhere you want in 5 years, regardless of your current life, what would you be doing?
I have a huge goal with this shop. It needs to support me. Not my entire family but I want to pull my end of the deal and still be a stay-at-home mom when I start having kids next year or so. In 5 years, I want to be found in my studio next door to my home with my radio on, and one or two little buggars locked inside the white picket fence of my studio yard. I want to be playing, teaching and crafting with them. That is my current dream.

8.Outside of your shop life, what else do you do?
I am a constant maker. I am also a movie watcher and a reader. And a forever student. I am currently taking a jewelry casting class, learning the lost wax process of metal casting. I am totally a sucker for the love and admiration of my husband. And I looove to just relax with good friends over dinner.

I hope you enjoyed this sample!

In My Dreams!

2008-09-09T15:02:00.011-04:00

My hubby and i have been thinking dreamingly of redo-ing our kitchen lately. It's really just a money pit, so much so taht we are afraid to even start working on it (we bought the house 2 years ago) and have just avoided it like the plague by eatting out 5 days a week. We have consequently gained about 10 lbs each. Bummer, but good inspiration to either start working out or redo the kitchen.

True Love Signed Print by FashionCandy

When I say redo, I really don't mean redecorate. I mean rip everything down and start from plywood floors and bare studs. My husband might find one or two walls salvagable, but I am so grossed out by the previous tenants of our house that I want to just start from scratch. You would to, trust me! (crack pipe, anyone? Seriously.)

So, I find myself looking today on Etsy (where else would I spend my spare time?) at kitchen goods, and while we first require important things like a better fridge and stove, and well, walls and a floor, we will eventually be ready to do the redecorating part, involving all the super cute handmade towels, and spice racks, etc. I also envision myself purcasing a great set of colored pots and pans.

These items will some day belong in my kitchen.

Spicelab Bar by PurposeDesign

Family of Three by SayYourPiece

Vintage look kitchen embroidered Pots and Pans tea towel by
thetatteredtowel

Oh, The Drama of School

2008-09-08T23:33:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite things about being an artist is learning a new type of art. Sometimes it something i create in my head and just do w/ little experience or knowledge of previously; I'm just determined to created the picture in my head. And other times the new art skills are learned through my forcing it on myself, aka. a class. This method is obviously especially good for the more complicated arts, such as the lost wax jewelry casting class i am taking now. I really don't think this is something i could figure out on my own very quickly with out a few years of trial and error. Hence my mega excitement that i get to forgo that option and jump right in. But because i have forced myself into this, dates and deadlines are now being forced on me, (well, not really forced, my prof is super laid back) meaning my brain needs to jump into gear and figure out what i am going to do. I am having the worst trouble figuring out what i want to cast. I have carved a ring that i went blank on design wise, a bird that my dog then ate, another ring that i dont think i even like, and now, a branch. yes, a branch of wood. i think that i like it a lot but i think i may have gotten too excited and maybe botched it up a bit. maybe its fixable. Regardless i fear i am supposed to walk in to class Wednesday with a ready to cast item, which i have not, since my dog (Diesel) ate the bird i had just finished. Dumb dog

How It's Done

2008-08-30T18:56:00.004-04:00

Today I am supposed to be making jewelry or something else that I wont have much time for this week, and not to say I haven't accomplished anything, but it hasn't been jewelry for sure. I have found a few possible places online to advertise, and have enjoyed laughing at my dogs, and I've even watched a few good t.v. shows and relaxed a lot! But obviously, I am striking out on inspiration and the creativity needed to truly make something worth looking at.

This is actually a huge reason I started this blog. I need to save up all the things that inspire me somewhere so that I don't waste a day searching online for them that they may awaken my spirit. Not that I thing time moves to slow, but for the sake of having this blog further advanced, oh that it could be 6 month from now.

Maybe that's something I need to think on: what kind of items would I like to be making in 6 months? I already know from my online surfing that what I do is not up to the level of ingenuity and creativity that I want, need, envision it to be. This past week I enrolled in a jewelry casting class. I think this will be a huge step in my jewelry design.

Here are some silver-casting etsy-ers that I envy the skills of.
"Curve, Stacked" by Metalicious

"Geometry Dots Ring" by grocgroc

"Love Knot Tree Bark Ring" by bcyrjewelry

"Cat Lover" by RicksonJewellery

"Furni Mini Stump Silver Pendant" by Roadkill

The Beginning

2008-08-30T12:32:00.004-04:00

My name is Stacey. Stacey Suzanne. It took me years to learn to like my middle name. Similarly it me years to find who I can be as an artist and have confidence in that person. The other half of my design name is my husband Lucas. Luc is an awesome man, childish as always, but that's why he understands me. I have never grown up and I don't know what will happen when I have kid's. I am afraid that either I won't grow up, or I will.

At one of my favorite websites for inspiring comments I once read this:

"Childhood is a strange country. It’s a place you come from or go to – at least in your mind. For me it has an endless, spellbound something in it that feels remote. It’s like a little sealed-vault country of cake breath and grass stains where what you do instead of work is spin until you’re dizzy."

-- Lyall Bush

You can actually thank Starbucks for that quote. If you spend much time there you may be familiar with the conversation inspiring quotes on the side of their cups. These can be seen at TheWay I Se e It.