Krazy Kates Krazy Days

santa ornament

2009-12-03T11:48:00.001-08:00

santa ornament, originally uploaded by krazykatedesigns.

We have a family tradition of adding home made or special purchased ornaments each year to our Christmas tree. I decided to make ornaments this year and these turned out so adorable we are making them for all of our grandchildren, great nieces and great nephews! Decided to make them available for all of yours too in my Etsy shop!

All in the family

2009-11-12T15:01:00.001-08:00

ribbon holders , originally uploaded by krazykatedesigns.

Our youngest son is having fun in the workshop!

Guestbook for my inlaws 60th anniversary dinner and dance!

2009-10-22T16:13:00.001-07:00

Guestbook for my inlaws 60th anniversary dinner and dance!, originally uploaded by krazykatedesigns.

My inlaws are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary this weekend and I jumped at the chance to make the guestbook for the dinner and dance.

3rd award!!!

2009-05-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

Sarah, from JudySnowMosaics! Lovely, lovely, lovely. The lady and the blog.

http://judysnowmosaics.blogspot.com/

Check out Sarah's newest blog post about the refinished antique dresser. If you enjoy vintage, you'll want to see it, as it is fabulous! Here is your award Judysnow!

2nd award goes to...

2009-05-28T19:09:00.001-07:00

JAZZIESJUNQUE!

When you visit Jazzies blog, first off there are soothing, beautiful colors that are easy on the eyes.

http://JazziesJunque59.blogspot.com

One of the cute features that pops out at ya is Jazzies love for furry friends. Her adorable furballs are up and there is even a link that you can click on for free to donate food for animals. Yes, I researched the site and swiped the link for people on my blog. Put your award on your blog Jazzie!

First award for a lovely, lovely blog

2009-05-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

The seasonal cottage aka Denise has one of the most fantastic tip filled blogs to read. Denise, you're first on my list! Just copy and save to put your award on your blog! Check out this fantastic blog.

http://www.theseasonalcottage.blogspot.com/ While you're there, be sure to follow the links to Denises incredible shops. Just be sure you have a napkin handy as you drool over her offerings.

This award sharing for awesome blogs is gonna be fun, but take me a bit. 14 more to go, feel free to share your blog with me. I'd love to look at them.

Blog award!

2009-05-28T18:51:00.001-07:00

How fun is this! A pleasant surprise from

http://athomewithsewsuzanne.blogspot.com/ . A lovely blog award. I'm on the hunt to pass it on to 15 other blogs. Post more in a bit.

First Camping trip 2009

2009-05-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Our first camping trip in the Rockies to open the camping season in May is always a delight. The high country peaks of the Sangre De Christos are snow capped and wildflowers are in bloom in the lower elevations of the Wet Mountains.

Fishing is good and training up a new generation of fishermen and women brings great joy to my husband sharing his love of the great outdoors. Our newest little two year old fisherman was excited with his new SpongeBob gear and happily beat the water with it until he discovered the joy of reeling in his line. Our fisherwoman granddaughter ran for her pole each time the water rippled to try her hand at fishing with a spinner.

Please be sure to click on the fight hunger icon at the top right of this page! You'll be providing food for people that need it with a second of your time by clicking.

Figuring out new gifts

2008-10-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to figure out new ideas for gift giving this Christmas. These dominoes drilled for cuff bracelets and a pendant are so much fun I decided to offer them in my Etsy shop too!

Wow, it's been a while since I posted!

2008-09-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

It's fall and time to get busy crafting once again. The summer flew by with a very full schedule filled with summer time activities. With the children back in school, it's almost time for the fall festivals. That means fundraisers! Here are some items I made and/or put together to put into one of my granddaughters classrooms silent auction basket for their upcoming school carnival. Their class basket theme is baking. Look for the recipe books to be in my upcoming items for sale at http://krazykatedesigns.etsy.com/ .

Nothing more fun than grandkids!

2008-04-21T17:06:00.001-07:00

Especially when they are crafting. My little granddaughter made these beautiful Parisian Carnival Tickets this weekend in pink. blue, green, and purple. We put them in the Etsy shop and she sold one to a customer in France. When we found out, I thought she was going to pass out. Talk about a happy dance. :) You can shop for her tickets at

http://krazykatedesigns.etsy.com

Thanks for looking!

Playing with vintage stuff, so fun!

2008-04-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

BlackStarBeads - the WOW factor

2008-03-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for an incredible array of vintage and specialty beads, your search can start and end at BlackStarBeads. Katie, much loved Esst member known for quick and delightful wit, will also delight you with affordable beauty for your jewelry creations. Get to know the ever original BlackStar as she graciously answered the following questions.

You sell beautiful jewelry supplies, how long have you had this treasure trove?

I've been 'officially' collecting vintage beads for over ten years now, but I've always owned vintage baubles of some sort. I spent hours of my childhood playing with the jewels in my mom's jewelry box. I spend hours now playing with the beads in my bead boxes.

What is different about your supply shop than other bead suppliers?

I specialize in vintage glass beads. Many of the beads that are for sale in my shop have been in my collection for years. Because of this, a lot of them are no longer in circulation and their supply is limited. I'm always on the lookout for new beads to add to my collection. I keep in mind the season or specific holiday that is coming up and stock my store accordingly. Right now, it's Spring in Tennessee, so my shop is bursting with vintage blossoms. I do, however, have fall hues for those folks that are heading into the Autumn season.

Do you have a favorite type of beading you work with?

My favorite type of bead is glass. I especially like matte glass. It has the look and feel of beach glass; which I love dearly. As far as colors go, periwinkle is my favorite. You'll rarely see periwinkle beads for sale in my shop unless I have an overabundance of them.

You have another shop for jewelry, http://blackstar.etsy.com/, would you like to share how you got started making your special designs?

My husband and I worked together. He's a licensed contractor. Long story short- he broke an ankle which put our jobs on hold for a while. I got a bead catalog in the mail, ordered some supplies, sold some jewelry, fell in love and the rest is history.

How has being a member of ESST benefited you?

This morning I woke up and logged onto Etsy. The forums were down and I was unable to post in our ongoing thread and say hi and see what everyone was up to. It was a sad moment. Who knew that joining a street team would bring me together with a group of women (I think we are all women) that are so different but have that one thing in common- our love for supplies and the work that we do? It's nice to be able to bounce ideas off each other and support each other. The exposure and the sales are nice, but it turns out that they aren't the most important things about being on this team. Thanks for letting me be a part of it.

To browse and purchase from Katie's bead shop visit http://blackstarbeads.etsy.com/ and see her luscious jewelry creations at http://blackstar.etsy.com/.

Artful Mosaic Supplies - Love those mosaics!

2008-03-08T20:58:00.000-08:00

ArtfulmosaicsbyDana has an exciting sister shop bringing you a wide assortment of beautiful mosaic supplies. Artfulmosaicsupplies has an astounding array of supplies that burst with color for your mosaic projects. Find out more about the artist in charge in the following interview:

Dana, could you sum up your supply shop in a couple of sentences for us?

My supply shop is a reflection of my many interests! I never could do just one thing so I sell a variety of items for mosaic artists including handcut plate tiles, handpainted mosaic tiles, handmade ceramic tiles, stained glass tiles, handmade glass gems, handmade mosaic bases and some commercial mosaic supplies.

What do you feel is different about your mosaic supplies than other shops?

I would have to say that the biggest difference between my shop and others may be the fact that I offer handmade kiln-fired clay tiles and handpainted ceramic and glass tiles. Most of my supplies are handmade. I seem to be all about handmade!

Do you use your supplies in your own products?

I do use my own supplies in my mosaic art. I have used my own tiles for many years because I enjoy using them and this also guarantees that the products that I offer for sale have been tested by me.

Do you have any upcoming surprises you would like us to watch for?

Everything that I do is always a surprise for me! It wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you but I’ll say that future plans involve a new line of handmade clay items and more handcut plate tiles.

How has ESST been of aid to you in your Etsy experience?

ESST has been a godsend! My Etsy experience has been enhanced by the friendly and helpful team members and leaders. This wonderful team has given me a real sense of community. My sales have definitely increased since joining this team. ESST is one of the best street teams on Etsy and I am very proud to be a member. Thank you team leaders and fellow teammates!

To look at and shop for Dana's mosaic beauties click here: http://artfulmosaicsbydana.etsy.com/

and to shop for those beautiful supplies: http://artfulmosaicsupplies.etsy.com/

Artsyhandpaints - Mosaics

2008-02-27T08:45:00.001-08:00

ESST provides a bounty of wonderful supply shops to find exactly what you need to complete your projects. The featured shop today, Artsyhandpaints is a shop you can find beautifully rich hand painted mosaics to work with. A shop to drool over as your imagination will soar with these unique and lucious supplies.

Meet Artsy:

Artsy, could you sum up your supply shop in a couple of sentences for us?

I offer hand painted mosaic tiles in various shapes and sizes. Also in my shop are hand cut mosaic tiles. Many of my hand painted items can be used as magnets or for making jewelry.

What do you feel is different about your mosaic supplies than other shops?

I try to offer unique hand painted mosaic tiles that all mosaic artists can use. My hand painted tiles are colorful and whimsical.

Do you use your supplies in your own products?

I use my own hand painted tiles in my mosaic art. When I first starting make mosaics years ago I couldn't always find tiles that I wanted so I started painting my own.

To see Artsy's mosaic products, see http://artsyphartsy.etsy.com

Do you have any upcoming surprises you would like us to watch for?

Over the next few weeks, I hope to add many more hand painted mosaic tile sets to my Etsy shop.

To view Artsyhandpaints complete line of supplies visit, http://artsyhandpaints.etsy.com/. Mark it as a favorite to be able to visit frequently and see what new beautiful mosaic supplies Kathleen has up next!

To find varied supplies of all types, place ESST in the search bar for tags on Etsy.com and be amazed. What does Artsy have to say about her team membership, "I love participating on the Etsy Supplies Street Team. Everyone is so supportive."

RJBeads

2008-02-10T20:10:00.000-08:00

Jewelry makers can shop in their jammies, from the comfort of home to purchase just about any supply they need just browsing through Etsy supply shops. Another fantastic shop to find those special supplies is RJBeads. RJ has a vast array of beautiful supplies in her shop. Meet RJ in the following interview:

You have such a wide variety of jewelry fixings, how did you become interested in selling supplies?

I imagine the same was as many supply sellers – I also make jewelry. My personal stash one day just got a bit overwhelming, especially since I’m always bringing in new supplies – so I thought why not try and sell some to make room for the new?

Is there any certain criteria for the supplies you provide in your shop?

Right now 98% of my shop is coming from my personal stash – some call it "destash." So at one point or another I’ve picked up that specific bead or finding, and thought "yeah, I could use this." I admit though, when buying my own supplies now, I do keep my eyes open for items I think will be a hit based on the trends you see on Etsy, something that I may not want for personal use but decide to pick up anyway.

Have you had the opportunity to use and test all the supplies you sell?

Absolutely! You can see that "testing" going on at my first shop: http://www.designedbyrj.etsy.com/.

In what way do you feel your supply shop stands out as special on Etsy?

Well I strive to offer quality supplies at great prices. I buy everything wholesale so I’m able to offer good pricing while still running my shop as a business. And I have a wide variety of items – something for everyone I like to say!

Esst is a fast moving streetteam, what do you feel are it's strengths?

I think you’ve just hit the nail on the head. It’s a fabulous team because it’s so fast moving. We get an idea and we go for it. We’re always doing something new and trying to get the whole team involved – it’s definitely not a clique atmosphere which is great. And considering how young of a team we are – we’ve done a lot since our inception. And of course, we have two fabulous team leaders who inspire us to participate.

To browse and shop from RJ's, visit http://RJBeads.etsy.com/

CarDonCreativeDesign

2008-02-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

First off in a series on ESST shops on Etsy has to be the driving force behind the Suppliers Street Team. Meet CarDonCreativeDesign and find out a bit about the Street Team as Carla shares a bit of background and about her shop in the following interview:

Carla, you are the creator of ESST, can you share why you started the team?

I felt there was a need for a Street Team to represent the Suppliers here on Etsy. Suppliers seem to be like candy, everyone wants you but, they keep telling you how bad you are.

The vast amount of networking on ESST in it's short life is phenomenal, how did you achieve that in such a short time?

I was very fortunate to find great people who were as motivated as I was to get a team together. Faro of Faro(her shop name) has been a great "Deputy" as I affectionately call her, she has wonderful skills and online experience to share.

You have a wonderful Esty shop, how did you become interested in selling supplies?

Well, jewelry is my first love. My Mother, Donna, the Don in Car-Don is a crafters crafter, she got me into the jewelry making and doing home parties. Online seemed a natural extension of that but, our stash got to be overwhelming and here we are. Now we search for supplies to share.

Is there any certain criteria for the supplies you provide in your shop?

Yes, I have to love them before I buy them. If I don't love an item, I have a hard time with the idea of trying to sell it.

Have you had the opportunity to use and test all the supplies you sell?

With over 900 items in my shop I wouldn't have time to list so, I settle with playing with them. I like to look at the item run my fingers over the stones, like you would if you were wearing it in a design. A lot of the finding are from our stash and have bought more because we like the quality if them.

In what way do you feel your supply shop stands out as special on Etsy?

Car-Don carries just about all the supplies you would need to complete a project. Mom and I try to have enough variety to do one stop shopping.

To visit and purchase from this amazing supply shop with it's large variety of sensational supplies for jewelry making, visit Carla at http://cardoncreativedesign.etsy.com/

Common elements for all arts and crafts

2008-02-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

Sometimes beleagured, sometimes maligned, always in demand... what would an art or crafter do without them? Have you ever needed that one basic supply to put the pop in your creation and been frustrated that it doesn't exist in your locality? Maybe what you desire isn't available at all by major producers and you need an innovative independent person to come up with it? Suppliers are the art and crafter's best friend.

Starting this month, you'll be able to find many great supply shops on Etsy by reading this blog. Content for the series is coming from a young street team, ESST, that has grown by leaps and bounds. While you're waiting for the blog spots, type in "esst" into your search tags on Etsy and begin to find all those needed elements to create your stunning masterpieces. Keep in tune with this blog and you may find that one item that you've had in your dreams for your next project.

January is almost gone!

2008-01-31T10:18:00.000-08:00

The first month of the new year flew by for me. With the new year, there is new activity for KrazyKatedesigns. New products, a revival of some that have been fun in the past and a hankering to create! Here's a pic of a new mini album listed. These sturdy albums will be a fun base for scrapbookers and altered artists alike.

On the promotional side of business, Krazykate's has new pages on Flickr, We Love Etsy, and one that needs a bit of work on Myspace. Learning is always the name of the game when it comes to computers for me. My youngest son gave me a few pointers for the myspace page.

I also joined a new street team in January that has very much impressed me and you'll be seeing more about that in the next post. Hint...... it's initials are ESST. :)

Ephemera

2008-01-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

Finding very old paper (ephemera) is a passion of mine. Scouting antique shops, thrift shops and estates sales brings the occasional thrill of finding these historical bits of paper. Widely used in altered art, collage, and mixed media the old documents lend a dignified, nostalgic feel to art with actual history. Here's a few samples of finds that are in or were sold in my Etsy shop.

Ho Ho Ho

2007-12-23T20:54:00.000-08:00

Got my youngest son to give a quick pose with his Bronco Santa Hat! He's having fun. Merry Christmas Everyone!

Quilting fun

2007-12-23T20:44:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe not always fun! Quilts made for Christmas.

Xangetsu

2007-11-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

Need adorable wooden charms? A visit to Xangetsu will not only supply your need, but add a smile to your face with adorable little bead doll charms! To visit, click here http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=27847!

oneeyeopen

2007-11-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

Pictures that appeal make wonderful gifts and here is a shop that fits the bill. For the beautiful and unusual in fine art prints, visit oneeyeopen. Printed on quality paper from her professional printer, Oneeyes prints will make a lovely addition to any wall space! Click here to visit
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5204418

Lling2303

2007-11-20T08:05:00.000-08:00

One normally associates Lling2303's Etsy shop with sweet, delicate jewelry, but this formidable artisan is branching out! Lling has listings for petite Blythe clothes, tags, and crocheted items too. Well known for quality customer service, a visit to Lling will round out your holiday shopping needs. Check out Lling2303 at

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5113775.

Blestbeads

2007-11-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

Always a favorite, blestbeads has an Etsy shop to wow the senses. Explosive use of color and design make Blest's work a visual treat to behold and reflects her personality to a tee. When you need jewelry that makes a bold statement, a visit to blestbeads is your first stop shopping.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5180475

Threadfed

2007-11-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Threadfed has an Etsy shop that will delight you in your quest for unusual, color filled, lightweight earrings for the special lady on your holiday shopping list this year. Unique beauty is Threadfed's speciality with finely embroidered products. To shop at Threadfed's, click here

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5129769.

LadybugsDesigns

2007-11-12T08:36:00.001-08:00

Know any babies? Pop into LadybugsDesigns where the hot stuff is in the shop and not in your lap for a well rounded supply of infant and layette items. Ladybugs has a shop full of practical and necessary items for the little ones in your life. To shop, click here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5139513

DawnofCreation

2007-11-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for warm and stylish crotcheted accessories for the upcoming cold season, you won't be able to resist DawnofCreation. Dawn currently has her beautiful freeform creations on clearance! Stock up for Christmas savings! Visit Dawn at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5072286.

PamperingBeki

2007-11-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

Lovely inside and out, PamperingBeki has a shop that is overflowing with wonderful accessories for hair and jewelry that is well worth strolling through for a Christmas shopping extravaganza. Check out her Etsy shop at http://pamperingbeki.etsy.com/ . Visit Beki's beautiful blog at http://www.pamperingbeki.blogspot.com/ to see what giveaways she may be working on or to get a peek of sunshine!

Glassgypsy

2007-11-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

Glassgypsy is a shop filled with stunning hand made glass beads. Jim, the artisan, risks life and limb working with hot molten liquid to bring his customers the finest in beautiful products. Well, that may be stretching it a bit, but it's hot work for a hot product! To purchase from the glassgypsy's incredible product line, click here.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=48376

DanceSippyDance

2007-11-05T08:32:00.001-08:00

DanceSippyDance has been popping in and out of goig threads since the beginning. Sippy being the sweetheart she is, didn't even get upset with all my typos calling her Dippy. Known for a wonderful sense of humor and intensely creative work, catch Sippy's creations at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5142501 . You can find your own one of a kind piece of art for yourself or gift giving!

The Rip Mender!

2007-11-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

For a shop filled with wonderful fabric creations, go check out TheRipMender! Rip has everything from children to adult fashions in her colorful shop. A must stop for Christmas shopping! To see this fun shop click here!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5065433

A goig shop a day!

2007-11-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the "goig" thread anniversary date, I'll place a goiger a day on my blog. What's a goiger? It started out as a thread on the Etsy forums to joke around about thread killing, but the word "going" in the title was misspelled. The typo stuck and several threads later a bunch of people that like to have fun and are very supportive of each other began "goiging". Goigers frequently have goig treasuries, goig promos, and a goiging good time. Anyone is welcome to jump in and take part, you'll know the thread because it will start with "goig".

Today's featured goiger, Circleinthesand also known as Ducky or Duckie has a great shop filled with a variety of products. If you need that something extra special in your Christmas crafts this year, check Duckie's shop first!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5166044

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T20:46:00.001-07:00

A couple of snapshots of the grandkids this evening!

Etsyscrap Contest

2007-10-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

Jump on over to the thread on Etsy that has a fun scavenger hunt contest going on! Until October 30, hunt for the Etsyscrap pumpkin in the listed shops. Write down the listing and shop that you find each pumpkin in and send the list to AliV for a chance to win a pack of fun scrapbooking supplies. Winner will be announced on Oct. 31!

Click here for the list of shops to hunt in -

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5284884

Good luck to all!

Feral Glass, Incredible!

2007-09-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

While blog hopping last month, I received a startling surprise. Feral Glass, the subject of this weeks feature, knocked my socks off. Unique and inspired, this glass artist has a veritable feast for the eyes. Be sure to follow the links provided in the interview for an extra treat!

How did you get started in glass sculpting? I started making Garden Glass for my own pleasure and to give as gifts. I have great sun here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and I wanted to make the most of it. While my flowers were asleep, I figured sheets of colored glass would add some interest. And then one thing led to another. If you want some details on my early experiments, see my blog on Glass Kites or on my outdoor hanging panels http://feralglass.blogspot.com/

Where you get your ideas for your creations? I get inspired by shapes I see or ideas I have. I have done series based on geographic places (one series focused on Francis Drake's voyage around Cape Horn, one series was inspired by the exploration of the Nile). And I also base them on flowers or other plants that I have seen in my travels. At other times it is pure whimsey. Like my garden punctuation marks... I just noticed that most gardens are not well puncuated... just a bunch of run-on plantings. So I created accent pieces, as it were.

Do you have a piece in your shop that is your favorite? I have created some pieces which were very special to me. It was a real lesson in the "business of art" when I had to face selling my favorite "children". I usually give my very favorite pieces away as gifts to friends. Of the pieces which I still have, I like Gravity Games and Homage to Absinthe.

Glass is such a fragile medium, does it take quite a few pieces to get it right? Glass can be fragile, but it can also be pretty tough stuff. Stained glass is twice as thick as regular window glass, and a lot more shatter-proof. Even dropping a piece on a cement patio usually results in minor chipping on the impact edge. Amazing, really. It has to do with the annealing, or slow cool-down period, when they make the glass. Some of the easiest glass to work with comes from Wissmach Glass in West Virgina. I drive over there a few times a year just to get re-supplied. Their glass cuts like butter. Some other glass is much less well behaved, and often shatters in unwanted directions. The price of the glass is no indicator of how well it will cut. Getting the right direction in the "grain" of the glass is important in some designs, such as the two favorites I listed above. I did a large panel of a Civil War field artillary piece (cannon) for a reenactor friend. Making the thin spokes on the wheels (and the even thinner dark gray shadows of the far wheel's spokes) was the time I had to make many, many attempts before getting them all right. But novices may be pleasantly surprised by how well-behaved most glass is, and how rarely you get cut. Getting the solder to behave well is actually more of a challenge.

What are your future plans and what other venues can we find your art? I am taking this one step at a time. This year I will do a Spring and a Fall outdoor festival, plus a Christmas sale at my local art center. Next year I hope to be juried into two larger prestigious shows, as well. I have some grand plans for large outdoor installations, including a 200 hundred tube version of my Five Tubes sculpture. I also want to take a class in welding and brazing, get a cutting torch, and make some larger outdoor glass and brass sculptures. Stay tuned

Check out Feralglass on Etsy to purchase this extraordinary work.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5176248

Catch the Goig!

2007-09-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

What happens when a lot of creative people connect on a forum? A whole lot of fun. Here are a few people and their shops that frequent "goig" discussions. What's a goig, where did it come from? No one knows for sure. sshhhh! If you want to join a thread of supportive, caring, and downright funny people, catch the current goig on the Etsy forums, you will be welcomed! This feature is missing a lot of people that goig only because they didn't happen to be on the forums today when I asked permission to hawk their wares! I'll catch up with others again soon.

Lling2302 http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5113775 is the designer of the beautiful multicolored bracelet entitled "faith bracelet". Check out Lling's shop, she's a sweetie!

Next, meet Mudd! Mudd is an internationally acclaimed artist who has a variety of products in his shop, but is very well known for his unique and startling skateboard art. Visit Mudd's shop at

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5111996 .

Tia from TiasTreasures is a mainstay in the goig thread. Well known for her beautiful jewelry and custom work, she also has adorable, dainty elves in her shop and is working on more for the holiday season. Visit Tia to purchase her wonderful work by clicking this link. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5167872

Find beautiful textiles and bibs in Yayabun's shop. There is a colorful peek on this page of Yaya's colorful flower bib. Visit the Yayabun shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=16227 .

Featured before, but always fun is Jazzie from JazziesJunque http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5202293. Jazzie has the ever useful monopoly markers in this feature. To see more of her eclectic supplies, be sure to visit.

KeysandMemories has a shop to salivate over! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5104393 The Alice in Wonderland bracelet is in Key's shop and you'll find a whole lot more you'll fall in love with.

Circleinthesand, aka "duckie" has another one of those shops that is filled with variety and fun to check into often to see what circle is working on next. Visit "duckie" at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5166044 if you would like to purchase the halloween coaster set shown here!

We've met Blestbeads in the feature before this one, but Blest always deserves another mention! The Harvest Queen necklace is Blest's work and you can purchase it at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5180475 for your own personal chase around the table.

The little ring of blue shown is from spectacular artist named Jo, from Route166artisans, a caring and lovely lady. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5175103&order=&section_id=&page=4 Catch Jo and her talented families work featuring quality and beauty.

Blest, you betcha!

2007-09-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

Witty, poetic, military wife, mother of four, dynamic, sweet, creative, patriot, homeschooler, skinny, funny, energetic, coffee addict, smart - all words add up to describing Etsy artisan BlestBeads. Get to know this perky dynamo better with this glimpse into Blest's answers to questions that enquiring minds wanted to know.

How long have you been making jewelry and why did you take up the art? I saw the cutest little necklace in a scrapbooking magazine made from a bamboo tile and transfer paper. I wanted to try that, so I tracked down the supplies and got to work! That was about four years ago. My early necklaces were rather pitiful, by the way. My best friend actually told me "Ummm I don't want one of those for Christmas" As I got going, I rediscovered my love for "rocks" and moved into buying quality stones. Plus I took several classes in beading and wirework... Now my friends LOVE getting my work for presents! ;-)

You have an overwhelming schedule in your life, what's your secret to your prolific making of beautiful jewelry?

Attention Deficit Disorder and a lot of coffee.Seriously, I'm very obsessive. Right now I'm totally hooked on making jewelry. On any given day, if I don't make something, I get really anxious. As far as my schedule, it's really not that bad. I do have a lot of little people underfoot, but I can bead in the midst of them and they think it's cool. My oldest son actually has his own little bead business, and I'm getting ready to teach him wireworking. Oh - and I don't watch television.

What is your favorite type of jewelry to make? Oooh. That's a tough one. Probably my freeform wire pieces are my favorites. But I love it all. I don't make anything that I wouldn't want to wear. And I don't do anything that I don't find fun.

Where does your inspiration for each piece come from? It varies. I'm not one of those artists who has a lot of meaning in her work. I make things because I think they look pretty, that's usually as deep as it gets. If there's a big focal involved- like a ceramic pendant- the inspiration comes from there. Or certain beads will insist they be paired with copper. ;-) (they do talk sometimes you know) Sometimes I give myself assignments like "How many pairs of earrings can I make in an hour?" Or other times it's "You MUST work with THESE beads today". Every once in a great while the inspiration will be a piece of music, or something I saw... But nine times out of ten I just sit down and start playing - and am surprised at where I end up.

Where is your business going from here? Right now it seems to be on a good upswing. I think I'm doing well here on etsy. And my work is in a local salon. Plus a new jewelry boutique is opening in a very good location and the owner has agreed to sell my work. I'm a little scared actually - I'm not a planner -so to turn out to be successful at this will be a bit shocking and require me to start some much better record keeping! But I certainly like the idea!

To find out more about Blest and view her entire line of products, click here

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5180475 or visit the Etsy forums where Blest is a frequent contributor.

EtsyScrappers - New Street Team

2007-09-09T19:54:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy all things scrapbooking, there is a new street team on Etsy just for you. Meet AliV, the inspiration behind EtsyScrap. The pictures featured are from Ali's shop. To see these and more great products visit AliV at http://aliv.etsy.com/ .

AliV, you were the go getter behind EtsyScrap, why did you decide to create a street team for scrapbookers?

I love scrapbook & I think on Etsy that scrapbookers get buried beneath all of the jewelry. So, I wanted all of us to have a voice and to be heard on Etsy.

What appeals to you about the genre of scrapbooking?

What appeals to me most about scrapbook is preserving of the sweetest memories.

I noticed you incorporate scrapbooking techniques into the frames in your shop, when did you begin branching out beyond the scrapbook page?

Frames were the first thing I did for my shop. I started making them as Christmas gifts for my family then decided to market them. I've been in to scrapbook since 1999, so I thought I loved my pages and albums and I put a few into my shop to help out with their memories book.

What are your plans in the future for EtsyScrap?

I would love for EtsyScrap to be a common name on Etsy with us having many sales and contests, our own etsy shop, and many active members. I would love to get every single seller on etsy, as a member of EtsyScrap.

If you would like more information about Etsyscrap or would like to join, follow the link on the right hand side of this page. You'll be welcome!

Went flower krazy!

2007-09-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooking pretties available at http://krazykatedesigns.etsy.com!

Paper, paper, paper

2007-09-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

My planned feature this week has been postponed, but hopefully will get it in a future blog. Here are some pic's of what I've been playing with for KrazyKateDesigns.

http://krazykatedesigns.etsy.com

Meet mkendall

2007-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

A visit at Etsy's mkendall http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5048667 shop is to have a visual treat to stimulate your own creativity. There is a depth in this collection that will trigger impulses to create beauty wherever you are. Purchase some of these beautiful treasures and hang them in your studio for those days that you need a mental boost. mkendall delivers a colorful, unique perspective that seems to leap from the photographer's vital energy while at the same moment calming and soothing the viewer, invigorating and relaxing. The following interview takes us a little closer to where this creative endeavor starts.

How did you get your start in photography? I have always loved taking pictures, but I think my passion for photography really developed when I was about 15. My brother was in several bands and I would always go and take pictures of them performing. It really taught how to deal with movement and light.

Where do you get your inspiration for your shots? My inspiration comes from a variety of things. I love to capture everyday objects such as lightbulbs and typewriters, in new ways. I am also very fascinated with natural light whether it be from the sun outside or simply a lamp that is place in the room. That is why I never use a flash. I try not to create set up vignettes or false settings. I like to capture things as they happen naturally.

What do you feel is special about your work and sets it aside from other photographers? My most recent work I've began layering my images on top of each other creating collage style pieces. I used a lot of transparencies in my paintings when I was younger. I love the idea of overlaying images that are totally unrelated, such as a typewriter and a flower. Sometimes, I take shots for specific pieces when I have a set idea in mind. Others, I browse through my library of photos and just see what I come up with. I like the idea of taking basic photography to an almost painterly level.

Do you have any one piece of work that defines who you are as an artist? That's a tough one. I don't think I really have one yet. I have worked in many different mediums from collage to painting to sewing and photography, even founds objects. It would be difficult to include them all in one piece.

Where do you see yourself going from here? I would love to go back to incorporating painting into my work. I got in sort of a rut and photography kind of took over as my solo creative outlet for the past year. I have an idea in my mind how I would like to approach both mediums together. It's just a matter of time before I get there. I find pleasure in exploring new media and will definitely continue to do so.

Wishing you all the best mkendall!

JaredKS, beautiful photography

2007-08-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

Take a stroll in JaredKS Etsy shop and you will walk through a virtual wonderland of natural beauty. The photography in this shop will astound you with it's crisp, clean lines catching detail that excites through the startling use of natural light conditions contrasting the beautiful elements of nature that would normally be unnoticed to the untrained eye. Find out more about the person behind the beauty as Jared shares:

How did you get your start in photography?My mom put a camera in my hands when I was eight, gave me some constructive criticism on my first set of prints, and I've gone from there. I've never taken any classes - just years of trial and error.

Where do you get your inspiration for your shots?I'm inspired by beauty. I tend to see beauty in natural things, and sometimes in spots that don't necessarily jump out as natural, I'll look to find the natural beauty that's there. I'm constantly inspired by life, light, and the spiritual energy that surrounds everything.

What do you feel is special about your work and sets it aside from other photographers?I don't have a great answer for this one. I figure I see things in my own way and that my works reflects how I see things, but I'm just not sure. A wonderful artist once commented that one of my photographs had caused her to look at the subject in a way that would never have occured to her, and that was about the biggest compliment I could ever receive.

Do you have any one piece of work that defines who you are as an artist?

The one that epitomizes what I'm trying to do for me is Windblown Grass - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6276219 - even though it isn't anywhere near my most popular photograph. For me, it captures a lot of motion, energy and feeling, and I just love it.

Where do you see yourself going from here?

I fantasize about being a full-time artist. I have been far more successful on Etsy that I expected, so I have my hopes up for making art a full-time job. Not just yet.

To view and purchase Jared's special brand of photography, visit http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5030000.

Romance, nostalgia, grace....

2007-08-12T13:51:00.000-07:00

Passion, romance and exquisite design are a hallmark at Delicate Designs by DD. Each jewelry piece of DD's exudes an aroma of delicious charm that will satisfy the most demanding palate. Join with me in a brief chat with DD.

Where do you get your inspiration for your work?
At first, I was inspired by the love I have had all my life with vintage costume jewelry. My two Great Aunts, Laura Belle & Myrte, would encourage my rummaging into their jewelry drawers. I ended up inheriting all their jewels. I was young and would lose items but I never threw anything away. I guess I knew I would use them someday, somehow. Secondly, I always wanted to be an artist. I remember in High School art class I struggled with painting. I wanted to paint so bad but I had no talent! I could do abstracts out of water colors, so for years I called myself an "abstract artist." It never satisfied because I really wasn't good at that either!When I first started my pins I was also in the process of becoming a Christian. The transformation that was occurring in my heart and the gift of creating with my hands came together beautifully. So my inspiration these days is that I never take for granted the gift of art that God has given me with the things I love. The solace and therapy of taking a pile of jewelry and asking God to create through me always inspires and always satisfies.

What do you feel is special about your art and sets it aside from other artists?
It is very nostalgic for people. People always reminisce about their Grandma or other relatives that wore costume jewelry. It takes them back...I am set apart from others because while many craft jewelry collages, mine are tiny works of art. Always balancing colors, shapes & themes. It is a completely self taught process over the last 15 years. One that I am passionate about and constantly improving. My standards are high and only I know when a piece is finished.

Do you have any one piece of work that defines who you are as an artist?
It would have to be my first pin. It is made entirely of my Great Aunts jewelry. It even has a locket picture of one of them. Sorry, I don't have a picture...

Where do you see yourself going from here?
My art is just that. My art. It satisfies the artist within. I hope I will always be able to create and grow. I have never been motivated by money. If people just want to look, that is humbling. If they end up in my Great-Granddaughter's dress up trunk, that is fine by me. Whatever God's will for them, will be. Meanwhile, He has given me this gift freely and I freely give it back.

Visit DelicateDesignsbyDD for a full array of beautiful products http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5199231 and find your special piece of jewelry to enhance your wardrobe for the upcoming festive season.

Supplies, Supplies, Supplies

2007-08-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

What to do when you can't locate that one unique item that you're desiring to finish your latest creation? Not to worry, there is a new supply shop on Etsy that may come to your rescue. Catering to the collage, altered, assemblage, and mixed media artists, JazziesJunque provides an unusual array of supplies. To see more of the eclectic assortment that Jazzie has compiled for your pleasure, check http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5202293 .

Meet CynContemporary

2007-07-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you cross a little bit of Mexico, Italy, and the United States? Exciting designer, CynContemporary! Meet Cyn as she shares her thoughts with us ...

Where do you get your inspiration for your work?

Anywhere that has some color!!, from fabrics, from Japanese books also I love vintage shop notions because I can find so many ideas there. I think is on of my most important inspiration.

What is your favorite medium?

Fabrics, with fabrics I can create so many things, not just only bags, flowers, pins, clothes, etc.

What do you feel is special about your art and sets it aside from other artists?

I start to work with felt and combining with my graphic design, I can create flowers, silhouettes, even letters, people love to see something different so if I combine my passion for colors with felt I can create great pieces.

Do you have any one piece of work that defines who you are as an artist?

Yes, I love all the ways of art and time ago I start to create but with metal, making embossing there I realise that I really like to create things, here is my first piece. http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyncontemporary/143985868/

Where do you see yourself going from here?

I would love to have my own studio and create more bags, my life is divided on two one is in USA and one is in Italy I want to establish in one please and start my own business creating more bags.

You can view a sampler of CynContemporary's work by following this link:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyncontemporary/244817728/in/set-72057594110649443/

Purchase items and see more at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=32906

My favorite artist....meet Frankie Kins

2007-07-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

Do you have that one special person that you've admired for years and been inspired as you watch the person evolve in their artistic career? Frankie Kins, also known as Blue Moon Studio and One Eye Open is that special artist for me. She is a great friend and it never ceases to fascinate me as I see snippets of her most inner self in each of her works. She's versatile in many different mediums and shares her knowledge with a freedom that is rare. The picture to the left, "Not Allowed", captures the essence of childhood freedom with a sense of abandon. To me, it is vintage Frankie Kins with her unique sense of nostalgia blending with her heart. To the right, "Phlox and Lavender" captures to a tee her deep enjoyment of beauty that she never takes for granted and enjoys to the fullest.

Meet the artist in the following candid interview she graciously consented to.

Where do you get your inspiration for your work? I'm a very visual person, and so as not to state the obvious, I get inspiration for my work from things I see. Let me explain. I love looking at books and magazines. I enjoy looking at art sites on the Internet (what I call eye candy). Looking at work that other people have done often jump starts my creativity. Sometimes it seems I run out of places to look for inspiration, and when that happens, I usually hit a dry spell. When that happens, a trip to a funky gift boutique or to Anthropologie can get me back on the creative path.

What is your favorite medium? Photography, especially alternative processes. Second in line would be digital photo montage/mixed media collage.

What do you feel is special about your art? Aside from its aesthetic quality, I feel that most of my art portrays a nostalgic and bittersweet moment in time. There is so much art available these days, so very much from which to chose. I attempt to create what I would love to hang on the walls in my own home.

Do you have any one piece of art that defines who you are as an artist? That's a tough question; I would have to say that it's the last piece I made. Right now, that would be "Not Allowed". This piece really pushed some limits I had placed on myself prior to that shoot. I like the simple beauty of it and the anonymity of the subject. I tend to love the last thing I have worked on the best.

Where do you see yourself going from here? I do have some dreams when it comes to my work. Someday, I hope for one of my pieces to be chosen for a book jacket. I also have plans to submit my work to stock photography sites. Using ball jointed dolls as models is in my very near future plans as well.

If you would like to see more or purchase Frankie's work, please check OneEyeOpen for more of her beautiful photography and photo montage
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5204418

and for paper arts, check BlueMoonStudio at

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5037569

Thanks Frankie!

Have you ever

2007-07-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

saw a tool that got you so excited that you just really, really wanted it! I have now two days in a row. The first was in an ad my husband was reading me. It was the most incredible wood crafting tool I'd ever heard of. I want it. :) When I told my husband, he laughed as if I was joking. I wasn't (why do they laugh?). The sticky part is that it will cost over $1800.00. So, I probably won't get it any time soon. Then today, I was browsing the forums on Etsy and saw the most wonderful product. Here's the link:

http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5745188

I saw a tutorial for paper making that a wonderfully gifted artist on Etsy by the name of Sparklerama had put together. Here's the link for the tutorial so that you can learn too!
http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=182021.0 The tutorial got me all excited because I'd always been interested in learning the skill, but didn't really get it. The way it's taught on the tutorial, I actually understand it! Not an easy feat and kudos to Sparklerama. I was tinkering with the idea of getting out to the shop to make the screens I'd decided to use. Now, I don't have to and I get all the goodies with the kit too! I ordered it pronto.

TuomiHomeCreations is a Canadian business that is well known for beautiful mosaics and mosaic supplies, and I am thrilled that she is now offering these kits for home paper making. She told me that she learned the art of paper making when she was real little from her grandmother. She'll make them in any size that you request and sends the cd to teach you what you need to know and a paper that she developed on the history of paper making too. If you get as excited about great opportunities to learn something new and want to try papermaking, here's her link so you can purchase a kit too:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6489514

Hand made paper is beautiful and incredible in texture and I can't wait to play! Special thanks to Sparklerama and TuomiHomeCreations for their gracious agreement to allow use of their information in this blog.

Saving children, one card at a time

2007-07-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

I was just reading forums on Etsy and saw this post about selling cards one at a time to raise money for children in africa and wanted to share the link. You can check it out here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5085253

Pretty neat!

Do Not Disturb

2007-07-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

You just never know what's going to happen to you when you fall asleep in a big sister's room!

Been awhile

2007-06-29T17:37:00.001-07:00

I added a new link to Crafts Galore. If you follow the buttons link on this page, it takes you to a list of sellers on Etsy and somehow you vote for my shop. I'm not exactly sure what the voting process does, maybe moves the banners up and down? Anyway, wanted to ask you to click on it so maybe I could figure out the point. :) I just looked at it and it says "vote for Krazy Kater", now isn't that different. Have no idea where the "R" at the end came from. Thanks for your help.

Krazy Week!

2007-06-22T19:28:00.001-07:00

Krazy, busy week this week! So nice to have a minute free to update this blog! I got a sweet, sweet note from sweetspice. Very nice customer that requested tags that were a new idea to me. I was able to produce them and got them shipped to sweetspice and she was kind enough to mention my work in her blog. http://sweetspicestory.blogspot.com/ The tags seem to be good sellers! Who would have thunk it? Spent some time this week shopping at thrift stores with my friend, Linda this week. Got some goodies that look like they have promise to be fun to work with. Got any ideas for a huge bag of wine corks? I'm thinking on it.

2007-06-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

Sam and I were playing in the shop this morning, coming up with new ideas for collage blocks. Here's a sneak preview of what to expect for new listings on Etsy. If anyone has any special desires for their own unique collage blocks, feel free to let us know! We will customize orders. Now, it's off to our great nephew, Tyler's, birthday barbeque! Happy Birthday Tyler!

Why I'm Krazy Kate

2007-06-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

My grand daughter asked me to share the origin of my shop name, I think it embarrasses her! One of my little brothers was confused too, wondering who this Krazy Kate is! So, here tis. I was bouncing around names with my good friend Frankie, trying to figure out what would work, be different, and have quick recognition for the new etsy store. She asked if I had ever had any nicknames. The only one I could think of wasn't something I wanted to use because it was something my Dad called me on occasion when I was little and was, "kissy Kate". Would have been kind of silly sounding. She started coming up with great alliteration on words that could work with Kate. Krazy was decided on because I do have a tendency to be a little different (and that's fine with me because that is how God works in my life). My real name is Kathleen and I go by Kathi. Now, my grand daughter should be pleased!

First day running

2007-06-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm a novice at going anywhere beyond email and finally decided that everyone is a novice at some point. I decided to take the plunge and try my hand at starting a blog. Wow, this program is a great help! For those of you who know me from Etsy, here's where I'll be sharing news from Krazy Kate Designs. I'm an over the top grandma too, so no doubt there will be news of my family too. What fun to have a forum to be able to share what new ideas are simmering in my brain. Sometimes, the simmer becomes a boil and something new is born. Othertimes, the burner gets turned off and I'm left with the knowledge I learned something valuable even if I did make a mess! I want to take a moment to thank my great friend and mentor Frankie Kins. Without Frankie's gentle encouragement and knowledge, there would never have been a Krazy Kates shop. Frankie, you're wonderful and I truly love you "to the moon".

Thought I'd throw in a picture of our little shack out back where we play with wood. I am able to take the picture cause our trailer that normally would block the shop is sitting in the high country for the summer!

This blog, just as life, will be continually evolving as I learn more. Any comments are surely appreciated!