Behind The Art Monday

Today's Behind The Art Monday Interview is with DES from Etsy shop Whiteserenade.

Tell us about your art. What do you make?

I enjoy photography, graphic design, stained glass, mixed media paintings, paper mache and jewelry.


What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I really can't sit still. I'd rather be junking or in my workshop. I've always been driven to create, and I have a passion for graphic design and reclaiming and repurposing materials. I love transforming something that might otherwise end up in a landfill into something beautiful, functional, and one-of-a-kind. I also love the art of the 20's and 30's and I've recently started painting vintage girl faces. My favorite material is recycling vintage French paper.

What are your goals for your shop?

Just do what I love to do. Create share and give. I donate some of my profits to www.bloodwatermission.com



What do you do when you are not creating?

I'm a wife, mommy and house keeper. I am very blessed to work at home and be available for my kids.

What is your favorite hobby other than crafting?

Working out exercising. If I don't workout I can't sleep.

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?
I sell in two shops in my area.

Where can we find you online?

Currently, only on etsy. I'm afraid of those places. Honestly I don't like being on the computer too long. It grabs you and I get nothing done.




What is your favorite item in your shop?

My recycled milk glass candle holders.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

Don't give up on your art. It's easy to get discouraged as you see other sellers. I do what I do because I enjoy it.

See more work from whiteserenade on Etsy.com

Behind The Art Monday

Today's featured Etsy shop is Capow. Crystal currently lives in Albany, NY and her shop is filled with fabulous photography as well as tote bags, wallets, clutches and a few vintage items.


Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

There are two main things that I focus on with my etsy shop: photography and sewing. I've been interested in photography ever since taking a class in high school and learning how to shoot and develop my own film and prints. I have been shooting for over 10 years, and was VERY against switching over to a digital camera at first, but now I don't know how I EVER lived without one!
As for the sewing, my mother grew up on a farm where my grandmother taught her how to sew, knit, and crochet. My mother would work on her crafts at night while watching TV, and I was curious and wanted to learn. She first taught me to crochet. Then she enrolled me in the local 4-H club, where I learned to sew from a pattern. She later taught me to knit...but for some reason I didn't take to it. After learning how to sew, I mostly quilted until about a year ago when I decided to try my hand at making a wallet. For the past year I've been sewing and making patterns for my own handmade accessories.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I think what inspires my sewing the most is great fabrics. When I see a bolt of REALLY awesome fabric I can't wait to cut it up and make it into something that's not only beautiful, but also useful.


What are your goals for your shop?

I would LOVE to be one of etsy's "Quit Your Day Job" stories some day, but I don't know if that will happen. For one, I'd need much more time to complete many more items. So my "realistic" goal for the shop is to have moderate sales so that the shop can sustain itself and maybe turn a little profit.

What do you do when you are not creating?

If I ever have a spare minute I try to use it to work on creating something, but between that and my full time job I usually squeeze in a hour a day at the gym. I really like going out for dinner with friends, going to see my boyfriend's band, Severe Severe, play, and hanging out with my cats.




What is your favorite hobby other than crafting?

I guess, technically, photography isn't crafting. That's the other big hobby that takes up most of my time. I just bought my first DSLR a few months ago with the slot machine winnings I made at the casino, so photography has become much more fun for me with a new camera to play with!

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?
I was turned on to Etsy by my friend, and fellow seller, RainbowWrangler. I thought it was a really great idea, and made my own shop right away. I also sell at a local brick and mortar called Silver Birch Trading Company. I have some stuff consigned at www.feyhandmade.com. And I'm working on setting up a 1000markets shop as well.

Where can we find you online?

twitter: http://twitter.com/capowcapow
blog: http://capow1981.blogspot.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/CAPow-Art-Design/49935081706


What is your favorite item in your shop?

My favorite item right now is the tote bag with the black bird on it. It was a new pattern I was trying out, and I REALLY love the way it came out. I'm in the process of making a lot more!

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

I've learned that you have to love what you're doing or no one else will. You can't make things because they are "in" and you just want a sale. If you don't absolutely love what you're making, it will be reflected in the end product.

Anything else you would like us to know about you?

I'm very grateful for every sale I've made through Etsy, but I'm even more grateful for the world of sellers and bloggers that I have been introduced to! Everyone I've found through Etsy has been totally amazing. You all rock!

See more from Capow by visiting her Etsy shop.
*********************************************************************************** Check out my blog giveaways while your here and win:
A $15 dollar gift certificate to Oceanside Creations and A knitted sweater bag from Bags of Blessings

Behind The Art Monday

Today's Behind The Art Monday interview features Julie from Juleseveland who makes fun and creative cards. They are beautifully designed so I hope you take a minute to get to know Julie and take a peek around her shop. Enjoy!

Introduce yourself.

My name is Julie Eveland, and I live in Lincoln, Nebraska. I make cards, and am in the process of making upcycled magazine bowls. I have been making and selling cards for about 5 years now, and love every minute of it!

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I started making cards after I started getting into scrapbooking with my sisters. I use stamps, stickers, mosaic scraps, my own handwriting, charms, paper piecings, you name it! It's so much fun to come up with ideas and create! I actually use to be a Graphic Designer so some of that creation revolves around my cards.



What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I get inspiration from a variety of things- magazines, graphic design books, computer galleries, even clothes. Once I get an idea in my head, I write it down and draw. I also keep a 3 ring binder full of ideas and occasionally look off the images. I love working with stamps (my obsession)...and watercolor pencils. I also can't get enough of cardstock!

What are your goals for your shop?

To try to sell at least one item! To get my name out there, and network with other creative artists.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Work, watch movies with my husband, spend time with my two cats, go for walks.



What are your favorite hobbies other than crafting?

Horseback riding and reading

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

My friend that likes to glance through the images on the home page everyday brought me to Etsy. She got me and my sister hooked ever since. My sister also sells her work on Etsy. I have sold my cards at one Craft Fair & individual friends and family.

Where can we find you online?

I'm on Twitter and Facebook- Julie Eveland or juleseveland.


What is your favorite item in your shop?

My mosaic card. I put a lot of time and care into the mosaic cards and would hopefully find a home for them!

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

That it takes a lot of work to get your name out there, and you have to put time and money into something to sell something.

Anything else you would like us to know about you?

My sister also sells cards on Etsy- handmadecardsbyjen, and we kind of started selling on Etsy around the same time. We love making our cards and are our own worst critic! I would love to start friendships on Etsy, and meet lots of new people. Thank you!

~See more of Julie's work by visiting Juleseveland on Etsy.

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Don't forget to enter the fantastic giveaways featured on my blog. Check out the left side bar for a list of current ones.

Stranded Treasures Daffodil Earrings Giveaway

Today I have another fantastic Etsy artist to share with you and another giveaway as well. (That's 3 giveaways going on at the moment! See left sidebar.) Today's interview is with Sharlene from Stranded Treasures, who makes the most gorgeous clay flower jewelry. I was amazed by how lifelike her flowers are. Check out the interview to learn more about Sharlene and enter the giveaway to win her beautiful jewelry for yourself!

Tell us about yourself .

My name is Sharlene and I live in a small condo in the center of town in a coastal city in Florida with my husband, a cat and a rescue turtle. I work from home and so my place is very inspirational for my creative side. Lot of flowers on the balcony, vintage and handmade items and very colorful accents yet calming. I’ve always felt it is so important that your home is your sanctuary.

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

My jewelry line consists of my hand sculpted clay flowers which I started creating about 6 years ago. I was trying lots of crafts and was doing macramé jewelry. I wanted to make my own large holed flower beads. When I stopped macramé, I just kept making the flowers. I’ve been creating jewelry on and off for over 15 years and eventually just blended the two crafts in one.



What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I love flowers and vintage style things so I’m always looking to reflect that in my work. I like the challenge of trying to re-create a style of flower. I always look through flower books and supply catalogs to spark different designs to apply to components. One of my favorite parts of making my flowers is color mixing and creating color schemes. I have books on that too that I often refer to.

What are your goals for your business? Is Etsy a full or part time job?

I am constantly working on my jewelry but I also freelance as a marketing assistant. I would love for my jewelry business to keep growing. I feel like I’ve been lucky enough to have it pay for itself but of course if that could expand it would be wonderful!




What are your favorite hobbies?

I enjoy container gardening on my balcony, sewing, playing the piano, bike riding, and going for walks around the neighborhood.

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

I was looking into online sites outside of ebay and came across it. I also am on Trunkt for wholesale hoping to reach some retailers.

Where can we find you online?

I can be found at www.StrandedTreasures.com, etsy (which is linked from my website) and Trunkt.org.




What is your favorite item in your shop?

Right now I like my blue and brown daisies necklace. I really like that color scheme.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

To be very focused when developing a product line. I used to create so many various items and it made it hard to evolve at one so I just started focusing on making flowers. And also photos! So important when selling online.



And now for the giveaway!
Stranded Treasures is giving readers the chance to win this beautiful pair of Daffodil Post Earrings:


Here's how to enter:

First you MUST visit Stranded Treasures on Etsy and leave a comment with your favorite item.

For additional entries you can do any or all of the following, leaving ONE comment for EACH:

~Become a follower of this blog or let me know if you already do- 1 additional entry leave one comment

~Follow Oceanside Creations on Twitter AND tweet about this giveaway. Leave your Twitter username in your comment - 1 additional entry

~Blog about this giveaway with a link to your post- 2 additional entries (leave 2 comments)

~Enter any of the current giveaways on this blog -See left sidebar for a list- 1 additional entry per giveaway entered ( leave 1 comment per giveaway)

~Make a purchase from Stranded Treasures between now and midnight June 24-5 additional entries ~ Leave 5 comments with your transaction #

~Add your review of this giveaway to StumbleUpon using the Share Button on the bottom right of this post- 1 additional entry (leave 1 comment)

~Post this giveaway to any other social networking site (Facebook, Myspace, etc.) - 1 additional entry ( Leave 1 comment with the link to where you posted)

That's a lot of chances to enter this fabulous giveaway!
Good Luck!

Giveaway runs through Wednesday, June 24 at midnight EST. Our winner will be chosen on Thursday morning, June 25 via the random.org widget in the right sidebar and will be announced right here on this blog. Winner will be e-mailed and have 48 hours to claim your prize. If winner does not claim their prize a new winner will be chosen. When leaving comments please be sure your e-mail address is available for me to contact you. All photos are courtesy of StrandedTreasures.
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See more of Stranded Treasures jewelry on Etsy.

Behind The Art Monday

Happy Monday! Today's Behind The Art Monday interview features Etsy shop joyuna. Her shop is filled with beautiful hand dyed yarns and knitted creations. She is also offering readers a 15% discount so head on over to her shop if you see something you like. Include the code "oceanside" in the notes to seller upon checkout.

Introduce yourself.

Hello, I'm Joyuna, and I make yarn. I'm a college student in Ohio, studying Linguistics, and selling on Etsy in my spare time to support my fiber habit.

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I spin, dye, and knit. I love knitting, and I've loved knitting ever since I learned. There's hardly a minute you can find me without needles. My addiction started with knitting, and then gradually grew to yarn and fiber in general. Now I spin handspun yarn on a drop spindle and a wheel, as well as dye yarn in my own kitchen in small batches. Most recently, I've been designing my own knitting patterns, which is a new and interesting challenge.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

My head is always full of patterns and colors. Give me a spare minute and I'll quickly begin filling the margins of a page with designs and ideas. Dyeing is so much fun because it's like I'm in elementary school art class all over again, mixing colors and seeing what turns out. My knitting is like that too - I improvise a lot of my designs, such as the knitted fruits.

Those fruits actually started as an accident... I was trying to knit a sphere, and it turned into a lime! And then I started knitting other fruits, because people loved them.



What are your goals for your shop?

My shop is really just an excuse for me to create more things. I never would have started writing knitting patterns if I didn't have the shop. The shop gives me an opportunity to branch out and try things I never would have tried otherwise, because usually I'm knitting for myself. Now, I'm knitting and spinning for other people.

What do you do when you are not creating?

Study... ha! I'm a full-time student, part-time crafter, though I wish it were the reverse. I also write articles for my blog, http://joyarna.blogspot.com . I love reading, writing, and learning languages.



What is your favorite hobby other than crafting?

I've recently gotten into baking a lot. There really is nothing like fresh-baked bread! And it's a lot easier than you'd think. Up until now, I thought I was hopeless at cooking. But I'm having a lot of fun learning and improving.

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

Just Etsy at the moment. I've been a buyer on Etsy for a lot longer than I've been a seller, so setting up shop there was the natural choice.

Where can we find you online?

I'm in a lot of places, under the username Joyuna. I'm an avid Twitterer http://twitter.com/Joyuna , I post photos on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/11560411@N07/ , and I made yarn is on Facebook here http://tinyurl.com/c3sghu . Like I said, I blog at the Joyarna Knitblog http://joyarna.blogspot.com . I'm also on Ravelry, where my username is Joyuna.


What is your favorite item in your shop?

I have a special connection with my handspun yarns, since I've worked so hard at them. It's a little like magic to take a ball of fluff and transform it into something you can use. My favorite skein of handspun is the beaded alpaca. It was an experiment, but one that I think turned out very well.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

Patience! I've always been a very impatient person, but since learning to knit I know that patience is rewarded with great results. I'm learning that with my Etsy shop too, because I'm starting to gain some success.

You can see more of Joyuna's work in her Etsy shop. She would like to offer readers a 15% discount when you include the code "oceanside" in notes to seller upon checkout.

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Be sure to check out the giveaways going on now in the left sidebar.

And The Winner Is.....

***Update***

Unfortunately KitKat has not responded to claim her prize within 48 hours. I have chosen a new winner, Ashley, who says Ocean Dreams' "A Glimpse Into Tokyo is very pretty." Please claim your prize within 48 hours.

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Our winning comment for the Ocean Dream's Studio giveaway for the Going To The Beach Inspiration Kit is... Comment #5!

KitKat says "this card is so cute!"

Congratulations!
The winner has been contacted through her blog and will have 48 hours to claim her prize.

Giveaway From Piper Riley

Time for a fantastic giveaway from Etsy artist PiperRiley who describes herself as "just a gal from New Jersey." I love her shop filled with floral hairpieces, leather bracelets, and peacock feather hair clips. I love peacock feathers so I am so jealous that I can't win this one. Take a look at this beautiful hair clip that you can win. Enjoy getting to know PiperRiley and check out her giveaway below.


Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I started crafting about a year ago while my boyfriend was away on tour. He is a touring musician and would be away for months at a time, so while he was gone, I started crafting just to kill time . I am very new to Etsy and started off making vintage upcycled bracelets. I would take old belts and give them new life. Then I started to make hair accessories and TahDah!! Piper Riley was born

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

My biggest inspiration is nature. I work with alot of feathers and flowers. I love feathers!! Especially peacock, the colors are just so amazing and can go so many ways.

What are your goals for your business?

I would love to go full time because it is so much fun. My next step though is to do my first craft show. Not sure when yet but if that does well then hopefully I will be on the right track


What are your favorite hobbies?

I like being outdoors a lot so anything involving that. Snowboarding, swimming, traveling, etc..
I also love garage sales....not sure if that is a hobby or an addiction though :)

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

My roommate introduced Etsy to me. At one of our BBQ's I wore one of my hair pieces and received a ton of compliments, asking me where I got it so I told them I made it and everybody then said they wanted one. Thats when my roommate told me that I should sell on Etsy. I checked it out the next day and I was hooked! Buying, selling, critiquing, EVERYTHING!!!




Where can we find you online?

You can find me on Twitter..... twitter.com/heypiperriley
And on Facebook

What is your favorite item in your shop?

I made one of these for myself and haven't taken it off since, I LOVE IT!!




I also wear one of these a lot. It is simple but it really adds a lot to an outfit.



What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

Not to get down if someone doesn't like your product. You can't always make everyone happy but you can try to do your best. Have faith in what you are selling and work your butt off!!!


And now for the giveaway!
PiperRiley is giving readers the chance to win this beautiful peacock hairclip:

Here's how to enter:

First you MUST visit PiperRiley on Etsy and leave a comment with your favorite item.

For additional entries you can do any or all of the following, leaving ONE comment for EACH:

Become a follower of this blog or let me know if you already do- 1 additional entry leave one comment

Follow Oceanside Creations on Twitter AND tweet about this giveaway. Leave your Twitter username in your comment - 1 additional entry

Follow PiperRiley on Twitter AND tweet about this giveaway. Leave your Twitter username in your comment- 1 additional entry

Blog about this giveaway with a link to your post- 2 additional entries (leave 2 comments)

Enter any of the current giveaways on this blog -See left sidebar for a list- 1 additional entry per giveaway entered ( leave 1 comment per giveaway)

Make a purchase from PiperRiley between now and midnight June 19-5 additional entries ~ Leave 5 comments with your transaction #

That's a lot of chances to enter this fabulous giveaway!
Good Luck!

Giveaway runs through Friday, June 19 at midnight EST. Our winner will be chosen on Saturday morning, June 20 via the random.org widget in the right sidebar and will be announced right here on this blog. Winner will be e-mailed and have 48 hours to claim your prize. If winner does not claim their prize a new winner will be chosen. When leaving comments please be sure your e-mail address is available for me to contact you. All photos are courtesy of PiperRiley.
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See more of PiperRiley's work in her shop.

Behind The Art Monday

Today's featured Etsy artist is Stephanie from Stoopher and Boots. Enjoy the interview and I hope you will check out her super cute shop.

Introduce yourself.

My name is Stephanie, proud owner of Stoopher & Boots. I live in NYC and am blessed with a loving family that is supportive of my artistic pursuits. So much so that I named my company after my Father's nickname for me (Stephanie/Stoopher) and my sister (Betsy/Boots).

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I design and decorate clothing and accessories. I started by looking for a creative gift idea for my sister's second set of twins (yes, second). I decided to try out designing shirts and got such wonderful feedback I thought I would continue. I took pictures of what I'd made, posted them to etsy and things took off from there. Now I've expanded into adult and dog tees too.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I'm inspired by color. I love mixing colors and creating images that highlight those combinations.

What are your goals for your shop?

Eventually I would like to have a shop of my own and expand into more retail space. My products are being carried by a boutique in NYC, but I hope to grow that reach.

What do you do when you are not creating?
I have a corporate job that takes up quite a few hours of my day (and night). This business has really allowed me to have a creative outlet which utilizing the business skills I've gained in the corporate world.



What is your favorite hobby other than crafting?

I am a new owner of a puppy and kitten and I adore spending time with them. They are a wonderful addition to my life.
What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

I've always heard great things about Etsy and I felt it was a good place to get started. Through word of mouth I was able to secure a relationship with a retail boutique in NYC. I've also started selling at craft fairs.

Where can we find you online?

Other than etsy (http://stoopher.etsy.com), please follow me on Twitter and join my facebook group



What is your favorite item in your shop?

Hard to pick a favorite, but here are two I'm very proud of:
Rockabilly Onesie
It's A Small World T-Shirt

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?
Mostly, this has been an amazing creative outlet for me. I've also met people from all over the world through Etsy and am amazed by all of the talent that is out there.

Anything else you would like us to know about you?

I love what I do, and hope you do too.

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Win a Going To The Beach Scrapbooking Inspiration Kit from Ocean Dreams Studio.
Enter here.

Giveaway from Ocean Dreams Studio

Happy Friday everyone! Here is a great giveaway for anyone who loves to scrapbook. Sierra from Ocean Dreams Studio is giving one lucky reader a Going To The Beach Inspiration Kit (pictured below). Her kit features some really fun and summery decorative papers, handmade tags, ribbons and everything you need to capture the memories from your summer vacation fun. I hope you enjoy meeting Sierra and enjoy her wonderfully whimsical shop!



Tell us a little about yourself.

A little known fact about me is that I am originally from Utah and I am a small town girl, even though I now live in a high paced life. I decided to stay in Southern California after I graduated from college and now I work with a creative magazine company! In my spare time I am always trying to think of new items to create for Etsy. I love to give gifts to people and lately I am enthralled and have enjoyed learning more about interior design and yoga!

Tell us about your art. What do you make and how did you come to your craft?

I make a little bit of everything. I make domino and scrabble necklaces, head bands, inspiration kits, digital art, photography, watercolor painting, and whatever else I can think of for the future. My mom inspired me with her Etsy shop to create to my heart's content. I have been making art and crafts since I was a little girl and it has always been a part of me. On my 23rd birthday she gave me a domino necklace made with a stamp, glitter, and beads, and ever since then I decided to create new necklaces and whatever else inspires me at the moment for Etsy.


What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I am inspired by current fashions, anything vintage, lovely, sparkly, bright, cheerful, and has a story behind it. I always love tying in a good story with my work of art.


What are your goals for your business?

My goals are to keep on creating, believing, and not settling for anything less than who I am. There is always going to be bigger and better ideas than my own, but that is when I need to believe in myself and reach for the stars. I also would like to continue watercolor painting and branching out more in the mixed media direction too. I would also love to learn how to sew really well so I can create altered clothing.


What are your favorite hobbies?

My favorite hobbies besides creating art, of course, are reading, writing in my journal, training for 1/2 marathons by jogging and going to the gym, recently learning yoga, watching movies, going to the beach, traveling, watercolor painting, and learning more about interior design, to name a few.

What brought you to Etsy?

My mom brought me to Etsy. She inspires me every day with her creative living and beautiful creations. You can check her out at vintage1955.etsy.com if you love all things vintage!

Where can we find you online?

You can find me on Twitter (oceandreams4u), Facebook, and my blog oceandreams4sierra.blogspot.com


What is your favorite item in your shop?

Hmm, favorite item. There are too many to choose from, but I love Dreaming of My Prince in Paris vintage tag...I had fun making it because I seriously adore Paris ever since I went there when I was 16!

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

Art comes in so many forms, and each is individually made with love and care. I think every artist has something wonderful to offer. Fear should never stop someone from creating, coming up with new ideas, and striving to be the best artist they can be! Oh, and art is a journey. Whenever I am creating I learn something new about myself and it helps me relax as well in the chaotic moments of my life.

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

I am an ocean dreamer and hence my Etsy name and blog name! I have loved the ocean ever since I was little, so it was my dream to move to California and live here by the sea. Now that I live near the ocean I will continue to dream my dreams into reality and I hope you do the same!

And now for the giveaway!
Sierra is giving readers the chance to win a Going To The Beach Inspiration Kit!
Here's how to enter:

First you MUST visit Ocean Dreams Studio and leave a comment with your favorite item.

For additional entries you can do any or all of the following, leaving ONE comment for EACH:

Become a follower of this blog or let me know if you already do- 1 additional entry

Follow Oceanside Creations on Twitter AND tweet about this giveaway. Leave your Twitter username in your comment - 1 additional entry

Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post- 2 additional entries (leave 2 comments)

Make a purchase from Sierra's shop Ocean Dreams Studio -5 additional entries
Leave a comment with your transaction #

That's 10 chances to enter this fabulous giveaway!
Good Luck!

Giveaway runs through Friday, June 12 at midnight EST. Our winner will be chosen on Saturday morning, June 13 at 9 a.m. via the random.org widget in the right sidebar and will be announced right here on this blog. Winner will be e-mailed and have 48 hours to claim your prize. If winner does not claim their prize a new winner will be chosen. When leaving comments please be sure your e-mail address is available for me to contact you. All photos are courtesy of Ocean Dreams Studios.
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Don't forget to enter the giveaway from Tile Me Beautiful as well. Scroll on down! Ends at midnight EST Friday, June 5 so hurry!

Giveaway Time!

I have a very special shop to share with you today...plus an awesome giveaway! Michelle from TileMeBeautiful is offering readers the chance to win a $20 gift certificate from her Etsy shop. Read the interview below to find out more about Michelle and her work and for your chance to enter the giveaway. This is one not to miss!


Tell us about yourself.

My name is Michelle Gunnell (yeah, it rhymes). I live in Spring, TX. It's a little bit north-west of Houston. I have a spoiled rotten dog. Her name is Jersey. She's a 4-year-old Lab/Pointer mix. I have a BS in psychology, but I'm not sure what I'll ever really use it for. I don't really want to get a Master's at the moment.

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I tile just about anything I can get my hands on. I use mostly flooring tiles. They're thicker and more substantial than your usual mosaic tiles. They just have a look that I like better. Glass is my favorite, but I enjoy using ceramic, slate, and stone tiles as well. Most of the things I have right now are housewares, but I have so many ideas and I'd love to expand into different areas.

I actually discovered my craft in the middle of my divorce. I was hurting and needed something that I could do for myself. Something that I could throw myself into and really love. I needed to create something, if that makes any sense. I was never, ever good at art growing up, so I went for something kind of untraditional. During the really dark parts of the divorce, I was holed up in bed watching HGTV all day. I've always loved tile, but seeing it used so much in so many ways was what really got me thinking.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

My personal style inspires a lot of it. I have to be careful to branch out to things that I normally wouldn't choose for myself though. I forget that someone out there likes different stuff than me. I just make things I would love to own. Standing in the flooring section of the store always inspires me! There's so much to look at. I usually don't create in wholes. I'll see a color tile mix I like or a beautiful 4"x4" tile and then my piece comes together around that one element.

The actual creating process can be kind of long and tedious. When you work with individual tiles, it’s hard to get them lined up. The type of mosaics I do require a sense of symmetry and evenness. I nudge, push, and pull each tile probably at least 20 times. If the piece is wooden, there’s two coats of stain or paint and two coats of sealer/polyurethane. Depending on the type you use, that could take up to four days. Then you stick the tiles down. The next day you can usually grout. I do two coats of grout, so that takes two days so that I can be sure the last coat is dry. I can’t seal the grout for another 24-48 hours, and I use two coats of that as well. That takes another day. There isn’t a whole lot of instant gratification involved. It’s usually almost a week before you get to see your finished product. You also have to be willing to get messy. I get grout all over myself - my elbows, my ears. I don’t use gloves when I grout (oops!). They get in my way and I feel like I have more control over the tile without them. Everything about it is sticky, smelly, or messy. I love it though!




What are your goals for your business?

I would love to be able to support myself doing this. Baby steps though! I'd just like to start out with some steady sales. Maybe get into some local shops. I have plans to do craft shows with my best friend, who also sells on Etsy. I'm mainly in the stage where I'm trying to get my name out there an network. I truly believe that good connections make for a good business, so I'm trying to support the handmade community and get involved in any way possible.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Running and biking with my dog. We do a lot of that. I also LOVE to read! I've pulled many all-nighters to finish a great book. Tiling takes up a lot of my time right now. I love to spend time with my best friend Stacy and her daughter Kaitlin. And does shopping count as a hobby??

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

After I decided I wanted to make my tiled stuff, I decided it might be nice to make some money at it! I had purchased something from a friend of a friend about a year ago on Etsy, and it came to mind. I didn't know much about the whole handmade movement until I started selling, but I've found it incredibly interesting and easy to immerse myself in. I also sell on Artfire, Zibbet, and Made It Myself.

Where can we find you online?

http://tilemebeautiful.etsy.com
http://www.artfire.com/users/tilemebeautiful
http://www.zibbet.com/TileMeBeautiful
http://www.madeitmyself.com/user/tilemebeautiful.aspx
http://tilemebeautiful.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/tilemebeautiful
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=1696249263&ref=profile




What is your favorite item in your shop?

Can I pick a section? My trays are always my favorite! A serving tray was the first thing I made, so that's special. Plus, I just love them. I also invest the most time in them.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

That you get what you give. I love to buy from handmade sellers and promote people on my sites. I love to chat in the forums and just make friends with other sellers. You get great advice, critiques, promotion and support.

And now for the giveaway!
Michelle is giving readers the chance to win a $20 gift certificate to her shop!
Here's how to enter:

First you MUST visit TileMeBeautiful and leave a comment with your favorite item.

For additional entries you can do any or all of the following, leaving ONE comment for EACH:

Become a follower of this blog or let me know if you already do- 1 additional entry

Follow Oceanside Creations on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. Leave a link or your Twitter username in your comment - 1 additional entry

Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post- 2 additional entries (leave 2 comments)

Make a purchase from Michelle's shop TileMeBeautiful -5 additional entries
Leave a comment with your transaction #

That's 10 chances to enter this fabulous giveaway!
Good Luck!

Giveaway runs through Friday, June 5 at midnight EST. Our winner will be chosen on Saturday morning, June 6 via the random.org widget in the right sidebar and will be announced right here on this blog. Winner will be e-mailed and have 48 hours to claim your prize. If winner does not claim their prize a new winner will be chosen. When leaving comments please be sure your e-mail address is available for me to contact you. All photos are courtesy of TileMeBeautiful.

Behind The Art Mondays

This week's Behind The Art Monday Interview is with Kieu from tealightshoppe. She is 20 years old, originally from Texas and is currently living in San Francisco. Kieu is offering readers 25% off their purchase when they leave the code "mail02" in the notes to seller upon checkout. Hope you enjoy meeting another great Etsy artist!

Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?

I make cute limited edition accessories ranging from necklaces and bracelets to cell phone charms. It all started when I was at the art store and came across some polymer clay. I was playing around with it and had the idea to make some cell phone charms. It then expanded into other mediums like jewelry making.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.

I take most of my inspiration from the beach. I like using beachy colors like blue, mint and sand. I usually choose the colors I like first and then I go about making my items from the beautiful colors I've chosen. It's kind of spontaneous, but it's been working for me thus far. My favorite materials to work with are Swarovski beads and polymer clay.

What are your goals for your shop?

I want to expand to different kinds of accessories and I want to turn this shop into much more then a hobby. I'm actually unveiling a new set of accessories soon so be on the lookout for them.


What are you doing when you aren't creating?

I'm still in college so when I'm not crafting, I can be found at school.

What is your favorite hobby?

My other favorite hobby is web designing. I've been doing it for over six years. I just like being able to make artwork into something functional, like a website.

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?

Etsy seemed like the perfect community for me, since most of the shops there sell handmade items. Currently, I don't sell anywhere else, but eventually I hope to have enough customers to make my own website and sell it through there.

Where can we find you online?

Twitter: http://twitter.com/tealightshoppe
Blog: http://tea-light.net



What is your favorite item in your shop?

My favorite item is the Swarovski Dangle Bracelet. It took me a very long time to make it.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?

I've learned to not sell my art for less than it's worth. From being an Etsy seller, I've learned to take good pictures, because your customer won't be able to see the product in real life so the pictures must convey the product as best as possible.

Anything else you would like us to know?

I do make custom items so if you ever need something for a special occasion, you can always let me know.

You can see more from tealightshoppe here.

All photos are courtesy of tealightshoppe.

Behind The Art Monday

TODAY'S BEHIND THE ART INTERVIEW IS WITH LAUREN COOPER FROM ETSY SHOP LOLOGARDEN. SHE HAS BEEN MAKING JEWELRY FOR 6 YEARS FROM HER HOME STUDIO IN GRAND HAVEN, MICHIGAN. SHE ALSO MAKES BEADED WINE STOPPERS AND UTENSIL SETS. THIS MONTH LOLOGARDEN IS HAVING A 50% OFF SALE WITH FREE SHIPPING.



TELL US ABOUT YOUR ART. WHAT DO YOU MAKE AND HOW DID YOU COME TO YOUR CRAFT?

I MAKE STERLING SILVER JEWELRY WITH GLASS BEADS AND GEMSTONES. I'M SELF TAUGHT AND MY WORK HAS BECOME MORE AND MORE SKILLED AS MY BUSINESS HAS GROWN. I STARTED MY CRAFT AFTER A LIFETIME OF CREATIVITY. I CHANNELED ALL MY ENERGY INTO THIS ONE MEDIUM AND HAVE HAD SO MUCH FUN WITH IT.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK? DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS AND TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE MATERIALS TO WORK WITH.

I HAVE ALWAYS HAD A NEED TO BE WORKING ON A CREATIVE PROJECT. IT IS MY FOCUS. I'M INSPIRED BY THE BEAUTIFUL NATURE THAT SURROUNDS ME IN LAKESIDE WEST MICHIGAN. SOME OF MY ITEMS FEATURE RECYCLED LOCAL BEACH GLASS. I'M CURRENTLY CRAZY ABOUT WORKING WITH METALS AND HANDSTAMPING PENDANTS.


WHAT ARE YOUR COALS FOR YOUR SHOP?

I WOULD LOVE FOR MY SHOP TO GROW AND TO BE ABLE TO SHOWCASE MY ART TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE. MY LOVE GOES INTO EVERYONE OF MY PIECES AND I WANT THE PEOPLE WHO PURCHASE THE ITEMS TO LOVE THEM JUST AS MUCH AS I DO.



WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU'RE NOT CREATING?

I'M A MOTHER OF ONE WITH ANOTHER ON THE WAY SO WE ARE ALWAYS PLAYING OUTSIDE, COLORING, ETC. I'M ALSO PASSIONATE ABOUT COOKING, HOME DECOR, FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CELEBRATING LIFE. I HAVE PRACTICED YOGA FOR 9 YEARS AND ENJOYING HIKING AND RUNNING.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY OTHER THAN CRAFTING?
COOKING FOR SURE.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO ETSY? DO YOU SELL ANYWHERE ELSE?
A FRIEND TURNED ME ON TO ETSY AND I LOVE IT. I LOVE THE COMMUNITY. I ALSO SELL AT ART SHOWS AND THE MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART GIFT SHOP.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM IN YOUR SHOP?
MY FAVORITE SHOP ITEM WOULD BE MY GEMSTONE BRACELETS WITH HANDSTAMPED PENDANTS. SO SIMPLE YET THEY MAKE A GREAT STATEMENT.

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM YOUR ART AND BEING AN ETSY SELLER?

TO ALWAYS IMPROVE YOUR ART AND YOURSELF.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE US TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I'M AN HONEST AND WELL-ROUNDED PERSON WHO IS IN LOVE WITH ART AND ETSY. I WANT MY SHOP AND MY ITEMS TO REFLECT MYSELF.

HOPE YOU ENJOYED GETTING TO KNOW ANOTHER GREAT ETSY ARTIST. YOU CAN SEE MORE WORK FROM LOLOGARDEN IN HER ETSY SHOP.

Behind The Art Mondays

Today is the first in a weekly series of Behind the Art Monday interviews featuring Etsy artists and their handmade work. This week's featured shop is Mod3rnart from Corfu, Greece. Hope you enjoy getting to know these talented artists!




Tell us about your art. What do you make? How did you come to your craft?
We make handmade silver jewelry from original ideas and techniques. Design and modernism has always been a passion of ours and from there we decided to apply it to jewelry.

What inspires your work? Describe your creative process and tell us about your favorite materials to work with.
Ideas come from life-from what surrounds us. The island provides tons of natural inspiration but we tend to mix that with very modern ideas as well. It is almost like we try to bridge the modern with the natural. We love sterling silver, titanium, copper, ebony and brass.

What are your goals for your shop?
To one day live off the sales ;)

What do you do when you are not creating?
Working 9 hours a day-7days a week to make a living.



What is your favorite hobby other than crafting?
Writing, web design, yoga, bike riding, music,

What brought you to Etsy? Do you sell anywhere else?
A friend exposed me to etsy and fell in love. I also sell on dawanda.

Where else can we find you online?
twitter, flickr, www.mod3rnart.com, http://mod3rnart.com/Blog/Blog-Mod3rnart.html




What is your favorite item in your shop?
The Girl with the Pearl Earring Ring

What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your art and being an Etsy seller?
Everything takes time and some things take lots of time ;)

Anything else you would like us to know about you?
We hope life smiles on you all

You can check out more of Mod3rnart's work on Etsy.

I'm being featured!

Today I am being featured by my fellow Etsy artist Capow on her great blog. Check it out to learn more about me and my jewelry.

I am also being featured on MysticWynd's blog. If you are a jewelry maker or just someone who loves to wear it you should check out this very informative article with great tips on choosing the perfect necklace or bracelet for you.

Behind The Art Mondays

Beginning on Monday May, 11 I will be featuring some great Etsy artists and their shops. Each week I will have an interview with a talented artist, your chance to meet the person behind the art. If you are an Etsy artist interested in being featured on my blog please contact me through my shop and I will send you a short list of interview questions.

Never heard of Etsy? Check out your place for all things handmade here: http://etsy.com