Anna Kay Creations

Flash Sale: Anna Kay Creations

2016-01-28T16:02:00.001-05:00

Check out this new Modern, Vintage and nature inspired Jewelry collection by Anna Kay Creations. Shop Anna Kay creations jewelry today and save 20% off everything in store. This is the perfect opportunity to shop for your valentine ;-)

Code:Handmade20

Expires: 1/29/16 at 11:59pm EST

Shop here now

Flower leaf earrings by AnnaKayCreations

Floral Beaded Bracelets by AnnaKayCreations

Shop: www.annakaycreations.com
Instagram: @annakaycreations
Facebook: www.facebook.com/annakaycreations

Just in: Red Rose Wood Beaded Necklace, Floral Pendant Necklace

2016-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Red Rose Wood Beaded Necklace

This red rose wood beaded necklace consists of red brown patterned beads, red floral patterned beads, red glass beads, gold plated beads adorned with a red flower resin bead on a gold plated flower pendant, enclosed with a nickel free gold plated toggle clasp.

Measurements:
16 inches
Gold plated flower pendant 2 inches

Materials
Wood, glass, resin, gold plated findings

Visit shop:
Www.AnnaKayCreations.storenvy.com

New: Red Gold Fabric button Earrings

2016-01-09T13:48:00.000-05:00

Fabric button earrings featuring 2 sets of 3/4 inches of red and gold tone earrings. A pair of medium red and gold polkadot fabric button earrings and a pair of gold tie and dye fabric with brown streaks and a hint of gold shimmer fabric button earrings.

Made of hypoallergenic nickel free posts for people with sensitive skin and backed with plastic stoppers.

Measures 3/4 inches

SHOP: www.annakaycreations.com

Follow Anna Kay Creations on Instagram

2013-04-21T14:56:00.002-04:00

Pictures from my 30th Birthday!

2013-04-12T16:23:00.000-04:00

I just turned the big 3-0 this past Sunday and celebrated my birthday on Saturday the 6th, with some wonderful friends and co-workers at a local pub/restaurant in Cary. I still cringe at the thought that I am no longer in my 20's and beginning a new life at 30. As they say life begins at 30......right? Although, most people can hardly guess my age because I look really young and probably in my early 20's.

It was gorgeous that morning, so I started my day with a run around the apartment complex trail. I felt so energized and positive.....I knew all was going to be good!

Later that afternoon, I went to watch my guy play in a rugby tournament with a team from Virgina. Both A and B side teams won by a large margin. Yay!! for the Raleigh Rugby Team!

There were a little over 20 guests that came to my party, some not captured in this photo. We had dinner, drinks, shots, cake, and more birthday shots for me.

The party would not have been possible without my guy (Anthony), and the guests that came to join me in celebrating my birthday. I felt so loved and important. I couldn't have asked for more...

Everyone was happy and I was happy too. That's all that mattered.

Black Friday, Cyber Monday Deal Ends 11/26/12

2012-11-23T15:21:00.001-05:00

Get 20% off when you spend at least $15.00 on all items (expires at 11:45PM EST on 11/26/2012). No ccoupon code required!

Shop www.annakaycreations.com

Black Rose Stud Earrings

IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to popular demand these black rose stud earrings are currently out of stock and available to ship on December 6th 2012. Secure yours today and get them intime for the holidays. You will be billed for this item immediately, and it will be sent to you separate from your order as soon as it is available.

Visit www.annakaycreations.com

Please checkout my new blog: Handmade Around the Globe

2012-11-05T10:22:00.005-05:00

Source

I recently launched a second blog, Handmade Around the Globe and I would like to invite you to take a look. Let me know your thoughts.

Update 2/7/16

Recently moved to www.handmadearoundtheglobe.wordpress.com

Featured Artisan: Auralynne

2012-10-19T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

I'm a work at home mom of two precious little boys - one is four and the other is three weeks old. I live with husband and family in Rhode Island, among plenty of Victorian mansions and pretty scenery for inspiration.

Bella Rosa

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it?

I opened shop back in 2006 making mostly costumes and a few headdresses. I worked part time for a while, then in 2010 decided to try for full time so I could stay home with my children. In order to do that I knew I needed to start making a few items that are, well, just a bit more normal. Jewelry was the most obvious choice, and the most fun, as I get to wear it around myself! And I love how a piece of unusual jewelry can turn a plain outfit into something cool and funky.

Faery Rose

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

I'm a belly dancer! Thus you'll find jingles and sparklies on lots of my creations. Cooking is my other big passion - anytime I eat something I like at a restaurant I go home and experiment until I figure out how to copy it.

Dragon Charmer

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My largest source of inspiration would have to be the belly dance movement - it's a whole community of women who come up with new ways to reveal the inner diva lurking in all of us. :-) I also draw inspiration from times gone by - art nouveau, art deco, Victorian, and Edwardian eras are my favorite. A lot of times a set of jewelry comes into being as a result of an emotion or a random event - for instance, the set pictured below titled "Vampiress" resulted from a lot of daydreaming after I found out about the Halloween ball that happens in Salem each year near me!

Bella Luna

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Most jewelry adorns, but if it's elaborate and unusual enough, it can instead transform. I go for the transformative jewelry! It's so much fun getting dressed up for a nice night out and putting some creation of roses and rhinestones around my neck that makes me feel like a fairy tale princess. The ability to share these designs and the feelings they inspire with kindred spirits around the world is a dream come true!

My website:

http://www.auralynne.com

Etsy shop:

http://auralynne.etsy.com

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/aurapretties

Featured Artisan: Yasmin Lux

2012-08-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,

This post should have been scheduled for last Friday but due to scheduling conflicts, I could not post it sooner. My apologies for the delay. Please welcome this weeks featured Artisan Yasmin Lux.

First off, tell us a little about yourself!
My name is Yasmin Lux, i now live in the north of Israel in a small village by a forest. for the last 6 years I've been traveling the world, spent time in Europe , Morocco, California and India. During my first stay in India in 2005 I encountered jewelry made with macrame and gem stones and immediately fell in love.

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it?
I have been making jewelry since I was a small girl, but the discovery of macrame changed my whole style and I knew I will be doing this forever, or at least for as long as my eyes would hold up. I bought a necklace from an artisan that day and he agreed to teach me the basics; from that day on I traveled everywhere with my supplies, learned a little bit here, a little bit there from fellow travelers , adding more and more tools to my "box" and the inspiration kept on coming.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
I can't really say where my inspiration comes from, it just does, like an endless waterfall from the sky to my imagination!!! I am so blessed! of course the materials themselves bring inspiration as well, the chords, the colors, the textures. I get a lot of inspiration from the gem stones themselves, each one asking me to present it to the world in its full glory. The time I spent in India was endlessly inspiring as well, the women there are walking jewels, their spirit equally beautiful.

My style is deeply inspired by old tribal jewelry as well, I was especially moved by an exhibition in San Francisco where the contents of an Afghani tomb where displayed http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tillya_Tepe *. the tomb contained the remains of a prince and two high priestesses who were all adorned in gold- from head to toe. Standing in that room, all surrounded by the glow of gold made me realize we should all be adorned like this. Our bodies being creations of the divine, deserve to be decorated with the most regal ….. I think I might have been a jeweler for a queen at some previous life time, now I make adornments for the modern queens - the beautiful and inspiring women that are all around me. Macrame has been my refuge ever since I found it , I am so great full to creation for bringing it into my life through it I have learned so much about life , it has been my meditation- with an added bonus- I give birth to something beautiful at the end of it!

Only in the last 2 years I have been selling my jewels in markets and festivals, this had added a whole new dimension to my experience - sharing my moments of inspiration and magic with my sisters is a blessing I have never imagined !

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

When I am not creating I love to be in nature , preferably near water ( a rare thing here in Israel) I see nature as the greatest artist and my role model. I love beauty , wherever and however it appears in each moment in every thing, and see my creation as an attempt to amplify it in the world. thank you so much for this opportunity to share it with more people.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

" beauty is a manifestation of a secret natural law, which otherwise would have been hidden from us forever"

http://www.facebook.com/yasminstreasures?ref=hl ( my FB page)

my etsy shop is still under construction - http://www.etsy.com/shop/whiterythmicwind?ref=search_shop_redirect

My Weekend

2012-08-13T21:06:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I went to my friend, Lyndsey's wedding in Pasadena, Maryland. I had the honor of making the jewelry for her five beautiful bridesmaids. Her wedding colors were moss green, ivory and gold. I completed this project back in April but I held off on sharing it until after the wedding.

Bridesmaids Jewelry by AnnakayCreations

See the jewelry on her bridesmaids.

Photo and Jewelry by AnnaKayCreations

I was really happy that everything turned out the way she expected :))

The only picture I managed to snab with Lindsey did not turn out the way I had hoped. Overally, the wedding celebrations were fantastic. I hope you had a great weekend as much as I did!

Featured Artisan: LoveKhloeStudio

2012-08-03T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Catherine, I’m a 28 year old report analyst by day, happy homemaker by night, and a wife and mother to a gorgeous but wild 20 month old around the clock. I live just outside of Los Angeles and love everything about Southern California life.

Source

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it?

I made my very first piece of jewelry in elementary school when my oldest brother introduced me to wood, seed beads, and fishing line. I used to think I was the coolest thing walking around in my very own necklace. At that point was when I first stepped foot into the wonderful world of Michaels Arts and Crafts store (I’m pretty sure my mother didn’t like it as much as I did). I learned there were all kinds of things besides seed beads. I’ve tried my hand at many things over the years—beading on a loom, lanyards, crocheting (that never worked out), little figurines and beads of polymer clay, decoden, does webdesign and blogging count? The list goes on and on and spans almost 20 years! I then discovered Downtown L.A. and the aisles and aisles of beads, I can honestly say I was in bead heaven. When I got pregnant I lost my willingness to trek through the crowds and smells of sewage and bacon wrapped hot dogs, all that is DTLA. I started sewing and began making clothes and accessories but as my daughter grew I lost my desire to make baby things. I went back to my first true love of jewelry making about a year ago. I started with friendship-style bracelets with embroidery thread, rhinestones, and chain. When I found my bead case amongst the things still stored at my parents’ home, I began beading again and I haven’t looked back. I opened my online shop after endless prodding from my loved ones, first on Etsy and now on Storenvy.

Source

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

I was going to say chasing after my toddler but then I saw the keyword “enjoy”- picking up rice and watching Mickey’s Clubhouse all day isn’t so enjoyable. I am also a Polynesian dancer though I haven’t performed in a couple years. I began when I was 7 years old, even before I picked up my first bead. Polynesian dancing is not only a great workout but you also learn about the cultures and I made a second family with my group. The food is pretty amazing, too. I also love to be able to pick up a book and read when I can or grab a sketchbook and pencil and scribble away. I have one tattoo of a single plumeria with basketweave waves which I designed.

Source

Where do you get your inspiration from?

When you live in Southern California, there’s inspiration all around you! The beach is one of my main inspirations, the sand between your toes, the shells strewn all over, the ocean, and the gorgeous sunsets that you get the perfect view of. The colorful costumes from my days in dancing play a role, too. I use a lot of shell, wood, and stones in my beading, things that bring you back to nature. I can see my jewelry on the beach or outdoors at a park. But sometimes you just can’t resist the shine and bling of glass and rhinestones! You can never have too many rhinestones nowadays. Take the jewelry shopping or for a night out on the town.

Source

Is there anything else you would like to share?

The thing I love about handmade jewelry is that everything has their own special touch and you know the person put a lot of care and thought into each piece. My shop is named after my daughter, Khloe, and I won't tie her name into something I wasn't proud of. I never send anything that I don’t love myself to anyone else so when I know that someone else loves my creations I know I’m doing something right! I learn different techniques and discover gorgeous new beads everyday and I look forward to growing my line of accessories.

Source

Extras:
Shop: http://lovekhloestudio.storenvy.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LoveKhloeStudio

Instragram: @lovekhloestudio or http://instagr.am/lovekhloestudio

Blog: http://withlovecatherine.wordpress.com

Featured Artisan: Cinlynnboutique

2012-07-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Cindy and I live in Michigan, in a Lake Michigan coastal town, with my husband and 2 cats. I raised 2 sons and have 2 wonderful daughters-in-law and 2 beautiful grandchildren. I've always been somewhat artistic, but not with jewelry. My artistic was in the form of sketching and painting. As a child, my Dad and Grandfather owned jewelry stores and were both watchmakers. I had no interest in jewelry until I became a teenager. But then I only wanted to buy it, not make it.

Source

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it? My interest in making jewelry came when my daughter-in-law decided I would enjoy it and bought me the tools as a gift. So, I decided to try my hand at it and fell in love! I found my artistic niche! That was about 5 years ago and I haven't stopped. Actually I can't stop! I'm so addicted to it! LOL

Source

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

That's not all I'm interested in. I'm one of Jehovah's Witnesses and spend my day hours preaching and conducting Bible studies. That is actually my first love!

Source

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from a lot of different places. Sometimes it's color combinations that I see. Sometimes it's other creations that trigger an idea (not that I copy other people's work. They just give me ideas that's all). I look at a lot of beading magazines and books for ideas too.

Source

If you want to see some of my creations, stop in my shop and take a look. Here's the link:
www.cinlynnboutique.etsy.com

You can also follow me:
https://www.facebook.com/cindy.newell1
https://twitter.com/Beadlynn7
https://pinterest.com/cinlynnboutique/

Featured Artisan: Linda B

2012-07-20T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!
I'm Linda B and I'm married to my high school sweetheat and we have 3 furry
cat children. I love to watch the cats and play with them; they're very
social and spoiled rotten.

Source

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it?

My passion is creating gemstone and glass and wire wrapped jewelry. I
specialize in Jewish jewelry and accessories, including earrings, necklaces
and beaded wire kippot (headcoverings). My inspirations come from the
shapes and colors of the beads and may be a variation of a design I've seen
in a beading magazine. Most of my designs feature some type of movement; I
love swirls and squiggles.

Source

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

I work full time and beading is a way to express my creativity. I remember
beading with pony beads as a kid, and was reintroduced to the art at a
women's meeting. We made bracelets with bells and ribbon while listening to
a speaker and I was hooked, or should I say wired? LOL I've been creating
jewelry for about 7 years now and online for about 4 years.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Reading books is another favorite thing to do. After a long day, I love to
immerse myself in a good detective novel or thriller. I do read ebooks, but
I prefer to turn the pages on a real book. One of my dreams is to have a
pajama party at a library. Ours is by a river and has a fireplace, it would
be so perfect.

You can find me online in a ton of places - I love social media:

www.lindab142.etsy.com
www.lindab142.artfire.com
www.linorstorecom.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/linorstore
www.twitter.com/lindab142
www.pinterest.com/lindab142
www.wanelo.com/lindab142

Featured Artisan: Luna Jewelry

2012-07-13T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Julia, and I am a traditional artist and jewelry designer from Central Massachusetts. I am also happily married with two daughters, who keep me pretty busy!

Source

How did you start creating your jewelry, and how long have you been doing it?

I discovered Etsy around four years ago or so, and while browsing around, I happened upon some really beautiful pendants using re-purposed scrabble tiles. I became intrigued, so I found some tutorials online and tried them out with old game pieces that my mother-in-law had. From there I bought my first set of jewelry pliers and borrowed a book from my local library called Bead on a Wire by Sharilyn Miller. I soon found that the creative possibilities for jewelry were endless, and I just fell in love. My idea of creating something beautiful and being able to wear it and share it with others became my passion.

Source

Outside of crafting, what else do you enjoy doing?

I love reading, taking walks with my family, and doing yoga. I've found that taking this time for myself every day helps to keep me centered and also keeps the creative juices flowing.

Source

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I love nature and use what I see around me as my inspiration. We live on a historic road called Devils Elbow (no joke!). It's quiet and full of visual treats (birds, bees, butterflies, frogs, bunnies, and even the occasional bobcat). I also love being outside with my daughters and seeing the world through their eyes. Sometimes they will point out little things that I miss, and it will spark a new creation.

Source

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Yes- if there is something crafty that you love to do, and you dream of earning money while doing it, GO FOR IT! I was laid off from my corporate America job in March of 2009, and I decided to open my Etsy shop that August instead of heading back into the workforce. Some days were tough, but for the most part I have not regretted my decision. I get to spend more time with my family now, and creating beautiful jewelry is now my job. For me, it doesn't get much better than that!

Source

Links:

My Etsy shop: http://www.lunajewelry.etsy.com
My facebook page is: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Luna-Jewelry/164072323350

Featured Artisan: Catarionna

2012-07-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

Tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Catherine Somerlot, and I am a jewelry designer, photographer, digital artist and web & graphic designer from Cleveland, Ohio.

Source

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

I taught myself how to make tatted lace about 3 years ago, at a very chaotic time in my life when I needed to find a bit of calm (and a reason to occasionally get away from my design work in front of the computer!). When I was a little girl I would make friendship bracelets out of embroidery floss, so tatting naturally became very appealing to me. Learning wasn't easy...but I practiced and practiced the double stitch for a week, and by the second week I was flying! Since then I've been designing my own elegant, intricate pieces that I incorporate into my jewelry.

Source

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I am inspired by myth, folklore and literature, specifically Celtic and Greek myths. At the time I'm writing this, I'm in Northern Ireland exploring the arts and crafts industry which is quite vibrant here. Ireland has a rich history with lace making, and I've enjoyed learning a bit about how certain types of Irish lace are made. I also love the "vintage" aesthetic of the Victorian-era, which is when tatting became a popular craft.

Source

Is there anything else you would like to share?

This year I started an arts collective with my partner in Northern Ireland called Autumn Arts & Crafts. At the moment it's just the two of us combining our various skills to collaborate on new work and products to sell at craft fairs, but we hope in the future to let it grow into a craft shop, studio space and organization that takes other artists in. We strongly believe in handmade craft and supporting independent creative businesses, so hopefully we'll be able to make this dream become a reality. I am writing about our journey on our blog, http://autumnartsandcrafts.blogspot.com

Source

Extras:

Facebook: http://www.catarionna.com

Storenvy: http://catarionna.storenvy.com

Featured Artisan: Stine

2012-06-29T11:00:00.000-04:00

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

I started making bracelets a while back now, maybe since November 2011. I think it is actually quite funny how I started, I was really bored of studying for my exams and felt like creating something(anything to not study) and I looked up on youtube "how to make bracelets". I had a huge choice of what to choose, and I found a link where you could learn how to make macrame bracelets. I thought it was so much fun and there was not much more studying for exams that day!

Source

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I get my inspiration from my own style, but I also get inspiration from other jewelry pictures, for example from Instagram and other jewelry artists. However, mostly is my own ideas and inspirations.

Source

Is there anything else you would like to share?

If anyone is interested, the bracelets are only $4.00 at my store with free shipping. - It is possible to get them costume made if contacting me on my store or blog.

Source

Links:

http://www.shellum.storenvy.com

http://stinesbracelets.blogspot.com

https://www.facebook.com/StinesBracelets

Featured Artisan: BijouBox Jewelry

2012-06-22T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

I'm Shannon. I'm a 23, soon-to-be 24 year old as I like to say, "student of life". I'm a free-spirit, creative, outdoorsy, open-minded individual. I currently reside 20 easy minutes outside of Manhattan in New Jersey and love it! The location satisfies every need and want I could ever have! However, I like traveling, music/concerts, discovering other cultures, and meeting new people. A few years ago, all my interests seemed to come together in this jewelry venture I started!

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

3 years ago, in December of 2008 I took a trip to the art store and purchased a bunch of polymer clay blocks. I went home and created my first line of charm necklaces and bracelets. This was a random act derived from pure boredom, mind you. My main pieces were cupcake charms. I didn't think anything of it really, until I wore them to class and to work and all my pieces were sold in a day. Light bulb moment. I love accessories and I love that they can "make" an outfit. So I started CUPCAKIN' and built my own website. I did very well with it for a year and a half, and even sold my pieces in boutiques in the Hamptons out in Long Island, NY.

Eventually, I found myself in a rut and looked for new inspiration and way to further develop my craft. In 2010, I started my first beaded bracelets. I've always loved a "full wrist" of bracelets of different sizes and "bling"; rocks were always an affinity with me and I also looked into precious stones and minerals. Which all landed me where I am today, with Bijou Box (Bijou is French for jewel or jewelry) creating beaded bracelets and necklaces with an array of natural stones and minerals, different woods, metals, and charms. There's use of jasper, jade, sodalite, onyx, labradorite, quartz, sandalwood, dyed wood, ceramic, alloy metals, etc. All stones and beads I find to be truly exquisite and powerful to the eye. I also use a great deal of Swarovski element pave beads and crystals.

I've come a long way from clay!

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I'm a nature-lover. I love being outdoors and I especially love the beach and the ocean. I grew up camping on the beaches of Long Island and was always on the water, whether a lake, or on my fathers boat in the Atlantic. I believe all those experiences and treasured locations, show in my work. Stones like labradorite that are grey and translucent, but in direct light show amazing bright colors like blue, green, yellow, and purple; Sodalite reminds me of waves; jade reminds me the dunes and sometimes in it's variations, of lemonade or candy; sandalwood has a great smell of fire and looks so natural.

I also have an affinity with skulls, which has become the Bijou Box logo. Skulls usually symbolize death and mortality however, the logo is adorned with a wreath of flowers which I like to believe symbolizes, for Bijou Box, the "beauty in rebirth". Rebirth in the sense that, these accessories can bring to life any outfit you wear, or simply uplift your mood. This logo also resembles the flower-crowned skull of St. Valentine; which I like because a lot of love & hard work goes into my pieces.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Just that I love what I do and I couldn't be any more happier in what I've let my life manifest for me. Being able to be creative all the time is not only therapeutic but so rewarding! Comments, ideas, and feedback from on-lookers and customers is SO appreciated. I love to connect with people and I love to supply the work I do to those that truly like what I create. I'm constantly trying to develop the line and always willing to hear peoples thoughts and ideas. I plan to go back to school as well, to get into metal-working and other stone work. So hopefully, this venture keeps diversifying and growing. I am so grateful for all that is it now, but I am so ready to keep working at making it so much more!

Main Site: BijouBoxJewelry
Shop: Bijou Box Storenvy
Twitter: TheBijouBox
Facebook: Bijou Box Jewelry
Tumblr: Bijou Box Tumblr

P.S. Want to be featured? Go here

Featured Artisan: Breezy Artwork

2012-06-15T11:00:00.000-04:00

Source

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?
I’ve been doing it since I was eight, creating my own little pieces of jewelry to wear and coming up with my own unique style. I’ve loved to draw and paint since I can remember, I’ve been taking photos since I was 10, writing, dramatic arts and music have always been a huge passion of mine as well.

My husband tells me I’m something of a “Swiss Army Knife” of Art, haha. I really love to do anything that requires some creative attention.

Recently I’ve opened up my own little shop on Etsy to sell some of my pieces, after much encouragement from family and friends. It’s been a joy to have an outlet to do what I love and share it with others.

Facebook has also been something of a scrapbook for me to share my work as well. I love getting feedback about the art that I display, whether paintings, photos, jewelry or music, it’s important to me to know how it affects others, and helps to inspire more of my work.

Source

December 24th, 2010, my husband and I were in a terrible accident. It took them over 45 minutes to get to us, and I had a hematoma behind one of my eyes, bleeding in my brain. So I was unresponsive by the time they got me to the hospital and was sent into a 5hr long emergency brain surgery. There was little hope from what I understand, and if I did pull through they didn't expect much of a recovery, bed-ridden, extensive brain damage... etc. But I stunned doctors and nurses as my recovery was incredible.

They called me the "Christmas Miracle" and people were excited to meet me in later visits, took pictures with me at the rehab center. It was amazing. I really didn't understand the extent of my injuries and the odds I had gone against until I learned more later, and met people with less extensive injuries doing so much more poorly than I.

It has been hard to understand, only that I am alive, and I need to celebrate that by doing the most I can with the abilities I have, that should have been taken away that night.

I hadn't been able to work because I still had some pretty severe headaches and other issues that I was healing from, so I poured everything I had into my art.

When we withstood the F5 Tornado in Joplin last year (May 2011) it was all the more impressive to me that life is so valuable, so fragile, and it can go so quickly. Make the most of it, share what you have, and never take it for granted.

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Where do you get your inspiration from?

Dreams, the beautiful nature around me, life stories, pain, joy… experience. Everything, if I look hard enough, is full of potential for artwork.

I am an incredibly blessed woman, I’ve been given eyes, hands and a voice to work with, and a wonderful husband who encourages me to use them.

I look forward to any opportunity to use what I have to encourage, comfort and inspire others.

We’ve all learned in one way or another, life is not easy, and everyone handles their difficulties differently. I choose to pull everything I know and funnel it into my art, and hope that it helps someone else the way it has helped me.

Source

Is there anything else you would like to share?

We have been trying to raise money recently for an orphanage/school in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. There are great people working out there that are stretched super thin reaching out to the children in that area, providing them with safe homes and an education. They live off the donations made to their ministry organization, so a lot of what I make goes toward the mission there.

Donations and/or purchases are greatly appreciated. To learn more about their organization you can go to their website: www.wgoreach.org

Extras:
You may include links to your Facebook, Blog, Twitter, etc
"Like" my page on facebook to qualify for discounts and give-aways!

Facebook: facebook.com/breezyartwork

Twitter: @aubreyprunty
Website: breezyartwork.com

Featured Artisan: Love Locks Accessories

2012-06-08T11:00:00.000-04:00

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First off, tell us a little about yourself!

Am a graphic designer, so naturally i love to design and create different forms of "art". I chose to stay home with my two little boys and filled up my time with making jewelry. I started with an idea of putting beads on everything. I chose to start with jewelry because all i needed to make it was beads. Right now i am planning to create themed collections as well as adding more items like flip flops, cup cozies, cushions and other accessories to each collection. I appreciate things handmade and crafts.
I still love doing my graphic work, so recently started a design company with my husband in Toronto, Canada.

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How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

I bought a jewelry set and thought i could create something like this! So i went out, bought some beads and created my first pieces back in 2005 but in very small quantities and i didn't sell so much. It was also on and off until 2012 when i was re-inspired and motivated to make more pieces and sell.

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Where do you get your inspiration from?

I find inspiration in color and pattern. Sometimes its the materials am using in my jewelry, sometimes its the piece itself. My latest items were inspired by a "tassel" which led to a whole Moroccan themed collection.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Each piece i make leaves a memory with me. I am happy to learn that people love the jewelry i make and it only inspires me and makes me want to create more pieces.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/lovelocksaccessories
twitter: @lovelocksacc

Featured Seller: Craftortheradio

2012-06-01T11:00:00.000-04:00

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First off, tell us a little about yourself!

I'm Liz - a coffee addict and bookworm working full time as a social media strategist. I write about some of my other loves - music,
crafting and fashion.

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

Last summer I found a big box of buttons, chains and fabrics in my mom's basement. I started making jewelry with some of the interesting pieces. It quickly became a hobby I really enjoyed. I work at a high-stress office job, crafting is a great way for me to be creative and relax after work.

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I was wearing a pair of earrings I made one day and a co-worker complimented them and mentioned that he would love to buy a pair for his girlfriend. He then encouraged me to turn my hobby into a business.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

All things vintage! I have been recently addicted to the show Mad Men (thanks to Netflix Instant Watch). Their 1950's style on the show has been really inspiring.

Extras:
Twitter: twitter.com/liz_kantner
Facebook: facebook.com/crafttotheradio
Blog: lizkantner.blogspot.com

Featured Artisan: LIT by LIT Accessories

2012-05-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Sara and I'm from Portugal. I live in a small town near Lisboa and I love it here! I'm a graphic designer and I'm interested in arts and crafts since I can remember - I've always felt the need to explore my creative side and give free rein to my imagination. And that's what I'm always trying to do :)

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How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

I've been making artwork for many years - first just for myself, then for family and friends. But one day I realized that I wanted to raise my target a little bit more; so I've launched a new line of handmade accessories - Lit by Lit accessories. It's a new brand but is here to stay!

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Where do you get your inspiration from?

I think inspiration comes from everywhere: what I see on the streets, stores, books, magazines, internet, tv... But especially in color and fantastic materials that grab my attention - like paper, tulle, felt and much more. Everything can be inspiring and inspiration comes anytime - even when I'm sleeping!

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Is there anything else you would like to share?

Yes :) Here's my lovely new store: http://litbylit.storenvy.com

I'm also in Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/litbylit

And in Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/saralit/

You can like, follow, buy.. Or just stop by :)

Featured Artisan: Tumblestone Handmakery

2012-05-18T15:51:00.000-04:00

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First off, tell us a little about yourself!

I've been happily married for 4 years and I'm a mother to a 21 year old sassy cat! Unable to have children of my own, my kitty is my bebe. I'm quite the goofy character, a sense of humour is important! I love to read, up until I started Tumblestone Handmakery, I would always have a book with me, I'm a non-fiction buff and addicted to learning about anything and everything. I especially enjoy Geography and Anthropology. Put a blank globe in front of me and I could point out any country and tell you all about it! I'm a total nerd at heart - and I love it!

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How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?
I have been creating jewelry on and off my entire life. I hadn't been artsy at all for a couple of years until I came across Fallen Angel Brass.
I immediately fell in love with their components and knew I needed to make myself some jewelry using their findings. When I posted my creations on line, I got so many compliments and requests that I decided to start Tumblestone. It's been going strong ever since and I have a sewing and mosaic section as well that is doing just as well. It's quite funny because I hadn't touched a sewing machine since failing horribly at it in high school until December '11. (All sewing projects are on my Facebook page shown at the bottom of this interview)

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Where do you get your inspiration from?
I'm not quite sure to be honest... I never know what I'm going to create before I create it, I don't draw out designs and I cant envision something before it is made. When I make a piece of jewelry I think of it as a puzzle.
I like to have all of my beads, stones and components all there in front of me and I play and piece things together until I get the "That's it!" epiphany.
I don't put pieces together and hope people like it, I make pieces that I fall in love with and would love to own myself. There is love in every piece.

Is there anything else you would like to share?
If there is something that you want to do but you dont know how, ask around and just do it! You never know what will come of it. Even just 6 months ago I never would have expected any of this. I had never touched a sewing machine or could even tell you what a blog was!

Extras:
You may include links to your Facebook, Blog, Twitter, etc

Facebook fan page: http://facebook.com/tumblestone.handmakery
Online shop: http://tumblestone.storenvy.com
Blog: http://tumblestonehandmakery.blogspot.ca
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/tumblestones

Featured Artisan: Creative Atelier

2012-05-11T11:00:00.000-04:00

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First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Iveth Caruso, and Creative Atelier reflects my attraction for simple and minimal jewelry in which the structures I use are relatively simple but they form elegant designs. I always aim for simplicity. I like strong lines, intense colors and quality materials. I make my jewelry with a lot of dedication and attention to detail from my home studio in sunny Georgia.

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

Since I was a child I saw my mother make all sorts of crafts. My mom is the most creative and resourceful person I know. I specially remember a set of paper mâché puppets she made for us. They were such a lovely artistic creation. I have been interested in art and design for a long time, but I didn't start making jewelry until about ten years ago, part of it is because I refuse to buy mass produce jewelry.

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Where do you get your inspiration from?

Before or after Pinterest? I used to cut out interesting ideas from magazines and organize them in binders. Artwork pictures, color schemes, plants, and many more. In my opinion Mother Nature, like many artist has tried all styles but she invented "minimalist". My mind is always at work, I have a sketch book that I carry with me at all times. Sometimes I write ideas and some other times I paint little sketches of future pieces.

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Is there anything else you would like to share?

Yes of course!

Please visit and follow my blog here: http://www.creativeatelier.net/

If you rather follow me on Pinterest here: http://pinterest.com/creativeatelier

And please favorite my Storenvy shop here: http://creativeatelier.storenvy.com/

Featured Artisan: Tamsy Trends

2012-05-04T11:00:00.000-04:00

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First off, tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Maite and I am a work-at-home mom. I grew up in the Philippines, but now live in Central Virginia with my husband and our two daughters. I am a self-taught jewelry artist, and an avid reader who loves to travel and see the world.

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?

About 5 years ago, my youngest child started elementary school and I finally found myself having a little extra time on my hands. I spent most of my new free time crafting. I already knew how to sew so I started sewing stuff for my house – curtains, table cloths and napkins etc. Then, on a trip to a craft store, I picked up a jewelry making book and starter kit and decided to try to learn how to make necklaces and bracelets. My thinking then was I would make a couple of pieces for myself and my kids and probably a couple to give to family and friends as Christmas gifts. Well, needless to say, I got completely hooked and I did not stop making jewelry since then.

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Where do you get your inspiration from?

Through the years, I've noticed that I draw a lot of inspiration from the colors I see everyday, whether it be from a nice painting I saw or a certain window display, a garden of flowers, or from the colors of buildings I pass by everyday.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I really love what I do. I always hope that other people will, likewise, enjoy my creations. Every piece is handmade with care in my smoke free home. I also love working with others to design and create one-of-a-kind pieces they may need for a very special occasion, a special someone or just because :)

Extras:

Shop on Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TamsyTrends
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/TamsyTrends
Twitter: http://twitter.com/tamsytrends
Tumblr: http://tamsytrends.tumblr.com

Featured Artisan: MoonRae Jewelry

2012-04-27T15:20:00.000-04:00

First off, tell us a little about yourself!
Hi my name is Samantha Martin and I currently work in the Fashion Industry as a Production Coordinator. Growing up I wanted to become a lawyer until the 11th grade in high school. I was involved in the law club, I was in the law dept. in school, and went to and studied court cases. Then literally over night, I decided to pursue a career as a Fashion Designer; now I had always made clothes for my baby and barbie dolls and so forth, but never thought about working in the fashion field. Since that day onward my love of fashion had grown and blossom into a full time passion. Now I am more eager to go very far to achieve my goals...hoping in the future to have my own denim line. SOOO SIKED!!!

How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it?
I started last year in making my own jewelry for the the simple fact I was so bored and tired of seeing the same old jewelry in the stores over and over. So this is what provoked me to venture out and researched many different stones, gems, medals, materials and taught myself the art of jewelry making and eventually started my own jewelry line called MoonRae. I have been in business for 5 months now and I love it.

Where do you get your inspiration from?My inspiration comes in many different things such as a boutique of flowers, shades of colors, artworks, and walking the streets of NYC. What attracts me the most are those little things that you don't notice in a painting, printed pattern on a dress, or a small detail fancy stitch on a jacket.

Is there anything else you would like to share?
Yes I have something else to add...I like to thank God for blessing me with the wonderful gift of creating, building,molding, and sculpting beautiful things. I hope my work will inspire someone to venture out and find their passion.

Here are my links below.

Online shops:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/MoonRaeJewelry

http://moonraejewelry.storenvy.com/

http://moonraejewelry.blogspot.com

Custom made orders contact me @ moonraejewelry@gmail.com