Featured Indie Junction Artist (Feb 1, 2010)

Handmade Red Cherry Blossom Printed Earrings

Our featured Indie Junction artist is Shendoe Ceramics. She creates beautiful ceramic and porcelain figures. She creates molds, clays, glazes and organic shapes and uses vintage decals to add unique detail and interest. Check our her beautiful store here. Here's a little bit more about Shendoe Ceramics.

Where are you from?
Originally an Air Force brat, I was able to travel and live in many different places growing up. As an adult I chose to move to the Bay Area where I am currently getting my Master's in Ceramic Art at San Francisco State.

When did you start to craft?
I grew up crafting with my mom. Yet I started creating ceramic jewelry when a fellow student and jewelry artist at SFSU commented on my glaze test tiles. Taryn McCabe of tomgirl.etsy.com suggested that I make my test tiles into jewelry pieces and that inspired me to start Shendoe.etsy.com.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I have been buying from Etsy for a few years, but didn't start making and selling until November of '08.

Necklace Cameo with Fleur de les

What kind of market is your work geared towards?
My porcelain jewelry is perfect for the woman who loves jewelry but feels limited by the current style trends and materials. My pieces are a often bold with color, yet have a subtle and delicate edge to them. The material of porcelain allows me to use push jewelry beyond the bobbles and beads into a more fine art quality.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
My porcelain jewelry is very closely tied to the ceramic sculpture I make. I am inspired by feminine imagery, pattern, and pre-existing imagery associated with porcelain tea sets, social values, and women. Each piece is made individually so it is often one of a kind.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
I make and use the same porcelain clay body and glazes for my jewelry as I do for my porcelain sculptures. I use open stock ceramic overglaze decals to add vibrant images to my work.

What are your inspirations?
I find inspiration everywhere. I look for patterns, florals, shapes that interest me. Often I go to thrift stores or resale shops to look at fabric, buttons, and vintage jewelry to get ideas for design. I don't often know what I am looking for, but when I find it there is no question that I am inspired by it.

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
Follow your passion!

Handmade Rose Stamped Porcelain Tile Necklace

Where else can we find you?
www.shennycruces.com
www.shendoe.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/ShendoeCeramics
In the Sacramento Area: Krazy Mary's Boutique on J Street in Midtown

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 27th, 2010)

The Painted Cat, Original Painting, Kitty Cat Art

Our featured Indie Junction artist today is Kimba. She is a self taught artist specializing in whimsical paintings, pet portraits, ACEO's and kitty art. She is a true animal lover and is currently donating 10% of all sales to BLIND CAT RESCUE & SANCTUARY, INC. Have a look at her beautiful store!

Where are you from?
I was born in New York and lived there until 2001 when my family and I moved to Florida. About 4 years ago we bought our first house in North Carolina and I've been here ever since.

When did you start to craft?
My Grandfather was an artist and taught me everything he knew when I was a young child and I've continued to paint and create my whole life. I began to sell my artwork online in 2009.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I joined Etsy kind of recently in October 2009 after a fellow artist sent me a link and I loved it.

Custom Pet Portrait, Original One of a Kind Painting of your Best Furry Friend

What kind of market is your work geared towards?
Animal lovers of all ages. I try to keep my work affordably priced so even a starving artist like myself can buy it.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
I paint custom pet portraits, original paintings of cats (and other animals :P) , mixed media Kitty CollageCards (ACEO art cards featuring my handpainted kitties) andI recently began making polymer clay pendants, charms and small sculptures.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
I love using vintage ephemera such as small charms as well as different scraps of paper I've collected throughout the years that have pretty patterns and textures in my mixed media pieces. As for painting I pretty much stick to acrylics since I am impatient and can't wait for oil paint to dry :D

What are your inspirations?
The love that pets and thier human companions share with each other is a big inspiration to me--I try to show my own love for animals in my work.

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
I think the best thing we as artisans can do is to donate some of our earnings to helping animals in need--it makes a difference in the animals life and you feel pretty good knowing you made a difference.

Yarn Lover, Original Painting, Cat Art

Where else can we find you?

On Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KimbasCritters

My blog: http://kittylovermeow.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/KimbasCritters

I sell on ebay: http://members.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=white_rabbit_23

my portfolio on EBSQ: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_3286_profile.htm

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 23rd, 2010)

Cool Waters - hand knit soft wide cuff bracelet with howlite, silver and turquoise

Today's featured Indie Junction artist is Lauren from Lapisbeach on etsy. Lauren hand knits the most beautiful pieces of jewelry using soft thread or fine wire, czech glass beads, semi precious stones and freshwater pearls. Her work is unique and one of a kind. Her etsy store is brand new and on her first day she made it to the front page of etsy. Way to go Lauren!!!!!!!

Where are you from?

I was born in and still reside in the state of Maryland

When did you start to craft?
I always loved art. I studied drawing when I was young, took classes in college. I learned how to knit from my grandmother when she visited from Colorado (while I was in college) and I never put the needles down since.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I have known about ETSY for a long time. I have been a lurker/admirer for about 1-2 years. I am finally a member (couple of months ago) and my goal is to set up my store in the next week or two.

Wire Works in Sweet - knitted wire cuff in pink, grey and white pearls

What kind of market is your work geared towards?
The market for my pieces is anyone who likes jewlery. I have tried to create pieces for varying tastes. (Glam line for BIG and BOLD- thin cuffs for those with more delicate wrists etc) I would say my range is from 18-75. Each piece is unique and it appeals to people for different reasons.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
Hmmmm- where to start? I draw, I paint, I did faux finishes and murals in peoples homes, I knit every day and I also sometimes dabble in professional face paints.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
Currently I work with all types of czech beads, semi precious stones, varying sizes of cords/threads and now wire.

What are your inspirations?
Many things inspire me: color, texture, seeing others' creations- but daily- my children (twin boys) inspire me. My one son was diagnosed with epilepsy almost three years ago and the smile on that kid's face (EVERY DAY)- makes me want to conquer the world!

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
To other crafters- never stop creating; whether it is for yourself, friends, family or the public- always make the time to create and work on your passion. It's good for you!

Jade Cuff Bracelet Limited Edition - hand knitted with jade, amethyst and glass

Where else can we find you?
Currently you can find me at my website: www.lapisbeach.com

Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/lapisbeach

and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=57710148598

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 17th, 2010)

Girl's tweed knickers Winter pants 2-3 Nutmeg Wafer

Our featured artist today is Three Little Birds Boutique. In her shop you will find unique girl's clothing, with a touch of vintage charm. Her items are beautiful so please check out her store and show her some love!

Where are you from?

I live in Victoria, B.C. Canada, which is located on beautiful Vancouver Island.

When did you start to craft?
Creating has always been in my soul. I can't remember a time when I haven't been drawn to colors, textures and patterns. I am constantly looking at objects and thinking of ways to improve or change their appearance...it's a bit of a curse!
I obsessivelycraft in phases; painting, scrapbooking, and currently sewing, just to name a few.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I first heard about Etsy through friends when I began discussing the possibility of opening a boutique. It seemed the perfect venue for my clothing, and I was drawn to the positive and creative community spirit.

Royal Albert sugar bowl pin cushion

What kind of market is your work geared towards?

My shop currently features girl's clothing, plus a sprinkling of gift ideas, collectibles, and sweet stuff for Mom.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
I design mainly one of a kind, vintage inspired and embellished girl's dresses, peasant tops, skirts and pants. I also do some Custom pieces, and am working on various accessories. I hope to include boy's items in the near future.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
I love to work with designer & textured fabric, and then incorporate treasures such as antique buttons, vintage lace, handkerchiefs, crochet pieces, and ribbons.

What are your inspirations?
I am deeply inspired by:
*Beautiful items from the past...my home is filled with a mixture of shabby chic "junque", vintage finds, and antique furniture.
*Roses and peonies.
*Music.
*Positive people.
*...and my wildly creative kids(all 5) inspire me on a daily basis!

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
My advice to other crafter's and also to myself, (sometimes I have to be reminded) is to follow your heart and do what makes you feel proud.

Girls flutter sleeve peasant top 6-7 Brandy Snap

Where else can we find you?
My new blog features current inventory, sales alerts, and giveaways.
I often post delicious family recipes, simple craft or decorating ideas, plus random positive ramblings & photos.
I recently featured the work of other great Etsy sellers!
http://threelittlebirdsboutique.blogspot.com

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 12, 2010)

OOAK Black and White cat gourd

I love this store, it's so unique and her painting is beautiful. There are so many gourds to choose from and each and every one of them has their own unique characteristic. Such a fun store and what a great gift idea these would make!! Here's a little bit more about Vicky of gourdsadored...

Where are you from?
I am originally from Indianapolis In but I now live in a very small town in northern Indiana.

When did you start to craft?
I started crafting in the 70's as a young stay at home wife and mother. It started with just looking for something to fill my time. I got passionate about what I was doing and turned it into a way to make a little extra money attending craft shows and bazaars.
How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I heard about Etsy from my sister who had heard about it on a morning news program over a year ago. I didn't look seriously into it until last summer. I've always been intiminated by anything that involved a computer. I finally joined in July of 09 but still procrastinated listing anything until mid November. I still was unsure if I could create the shop but it all came much easier than I expected.

original design chef gourd

What kind of market is your work

geared towards?
I don't really know how to answer what market my craft is geared toward. I try to create items that could be geared toward anyone. A retired couple or anyone who just likes to sit in their yard and watch the birds, to a child who would love their favorite animal or character on their lamp or night light in their room. To some of my higher priced pieces for someone who would want a unique, carved or sculpted piece of art. For someone who just wants something cute to put in their yard or somewhere in their house. So I guess I don't have a particular market that I've geared myself toward.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
I have done many crafts through the years, I love trying new things. I have been working with gourds for about 8 years now. But I have done woodworking, building rocking horses and furniture to something as simple of shelves. I crochet, I have made dolls, I sew, paint on glass and metal, scrapbooking, you name I have probably tried it over the last 35 plus years.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
I love working with gourds. I love the transformation they make from the time they are scrubbed then painted or woodburned or sculpted or carved. I guess that's why I came up with Gourds Adored as my buisness name. I adore every single one when I'm finished with whatever I've decided to do with it.
What are your inspirations?
Just the world and life in general.

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
Just hang in there. Love what you do and and do what you love. That love will reflect in your creations. Set goals and go for it, when you reach it, set another one, they will all be reachable if your willing to put the work into it. My goals have changed alot over years. Being new to selling on line, I started my new goals very simple, so not to get discouraged. Once I found that I COULD set up that shop, could make my first on line sale, "I'm shootin for the moon!"

Leaf gourd woodburned vessel

Where else can we find you?
My Etsy store http://gourdsadored.etsy.com
My main outlet up to now has been craft shows in Indiana and Michigan.
I have just started a twitter page in the last couple of days http://twitter.com/gourdsadored

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 09, 2010)

Cocobolo and Platinum Fountain Pen - Handcrafted Pen

What a beautiful gift these would make for that special man in your life, Valentines day is coming up soon, why not treat your loved one to one of the gorgeous handcrafted pens? We are lucky to have such a unique crafter as part of our community! Here's a little bit more about Patrick!

Where are you from?

I grew up in Ventura, CA but

lived in Fort Collins, CO for so long that really feels like home. I sure miss it!

When did you start to craft?
I have been "crafting" as long as I can remember. When I was a kid it was Popsicle stick castles and cardboard box forts. A few years back it was chocolates and now I work in wood. I have been chip carving for several years but just picked up wood turning and penmaking in 2008.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?
I don't remember who told me about Etsy. It was one of those random things. I created The Norsk Woodshop last year in February. I really can't believe that my shop has been up for almost a year!

Wooden Bowl - Handcrafted Found Wood Bowl

What kind of market is your work geared cowards?
Everyone needs a pen but I really tend to market toward guys, or more specifically gifts for guys. Besides Etsy, I have tried shops on ArtFire and 1000 Markets but Etsy seems have such a huge (and great) list of customers so I think it is time to focus my efforts a bit.

What types of crafts/artwork do you do?
Handcrafted pens made of exotic woods from all over the world and colorful acrylics. I love my pens! I pretty much carry a different pen with me every day and have sold the one out of my pocket on a couple of occasions.
I turn other functional and artistic items including bowls, vases, and boxes. Most of my bowls are turned with "found wood" including wood found on the side of the road or at our local tree trimming recycling area.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?
I use a lot of wood including found wood and pen blanked sourced from around the world (mostly from Ebay). Some of my favorite species are olive wood (most of which comes from Bethlehem), koa, camphor, and box elder.
I also turn a lot of pens out of acrylic pen blanks. These are pre-cast blanks that have awesome colors and when finished have a wonderful feel and are very iridescent in the sunlight.

What are your inspirations?
I try to let the wood talk to me. When I mount a piece of wood on the lathe and start to remove the wood and make it round you can start to see what it wants to look like. I use the grain patterns and flaws in the wood dictate where the next cut should be to make a great bowl or vase. As for my pens, they are a bit simpler...it is just matching up the right kit with the right blank and turning a great shape. I try to stick with smooth transitions and soft finishes.

What is some advice you could share with other crafters?
Do a craft show! You will love the face to face interactions with your customers (or prospective customers). It is a great way to get feedback on your designs, get ideas for new products, and start to build your local clientèle (and mailing list). It doesn't have to be fancy, just get out there!

Lemony Fresh - Yellow Acrylic Olympian Elite Pen - Handcrafted

Where else can we find you?

Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/norskwoodshop
Blog: http://blog.norskwoodshop.com
FaceBook: http://facebook.com/norskwoodshop
Twitter: http://twitter.com/norskwoodshop

Featured Indie Junction Artist (Jan 5, 2010)

Green amethyst and sterling silver filagree earrings

Where are you from?

I currently live in NW Florida, but originally from GA. I was a service brat though, so I also lived out West for a while.

When did you start to craft?

I've been doing some sort of craft ever since I can remember. I used to draw paper dolls and make clothes for them as a pre-teen. I've dabbled in lots of crafts, needlepoint, cross-stitch, quilting, decorative painting, precious metal clay & polymer clay. About 8 years ago I discovered beads and jewelry making and became totally addicted.

How did you hear about Etsy and when did you join?

I joined Etsy in May 2007 as a buyer. I heard about it on a wire working board I belonged to and wanted to buy a tutorial from one of the members who sold on Etsy. I opened my own shop in May 2008.

Sterling silver and carnelian earrings

What kind of market is your work geared towards?

My work is geared toward women who love traditional and feminine jewelry that is unique and often one of a kind. She appreciates the bling and lasting quality of gemstones, but doesn't always follow the crowd.
What types of crafts/artwork do you do?

I make wire wrapped jewelry, from simple to more complex in a traditional style. Some is made with purchased components, I love and can't resist filagree or art deco style pieces, and some is made from scratch using fine and sterling silver wire. I plan to start learning more metalsmithing techniques this year, beginning with sheet copper and silver and also would like to work more with precious metal clays.

What kinds of materials do you like to work with?

I prefer sterling silver and gemstones, but also use gold-filled, a little silver or gold plate and brass and copper.

What are your inspirations?

I find inspiration everywhere. I might see a pattern in a rug and think that would make a great bracelet, or come across a unique component and know exactly what I want to do with it. Other times I play, a lot of which doesn't turn out, but I always learn from play.
Words of advice for other crafters?

Never stop learning something new about your craft or art and you will never be bored with it.

Sterling silver and iolite necklace

Where else can we find you?

Aside from my Etsy shop I have a Facebook fan page http://www.facebook.com/Silvermooncrafts, I'm on Twitter http://twitter.com/Silvermooncraft, and Indie Junction http://indiejunction.ning.com/profile/Theresia