Daisy Cottage Designs

Pinterest Finds: Crochet Bunting Options

2012-02-08T20:19:00.000-05:00

I've decided that my next project for Riley and Caroline's room is going to be a crocheted bunting that drapes above both windows in their bedroom. Of course I headed to Pinterest to get ideas for this undertaking. The most difficult parts of this journey are going to be 1. choosing between these fabulous finds and 2. choosing the colors.

Here's where you come in: Take a look at these options and vote in the poll over on the sidebar! Let me know if you think I should choose one of the following or a combination of the following (and leave your idea as a comment).

If you like these ideas, check out the rest of my Crochet Ideas Board.

Granny Bunting from Attic24

Flower Bunting from Pink Fluffy Warrior

Teeny Heart Bunting from Julia Crossland

Crochet Bunting from Carina's Craftblog

**PLEASE NOTE: These items are not my own work; these photos are not my own photos. These are patterns or tutorials that I found on Pinterest and love. Please follow the links below the photos if you're interested in one of these patterns.

Handmade Gift Guide: 2nd Birthday

2012-02-06T07:54:00.001-05:00

Those of us who are parents know that time goes by unbelievably fast. I can't believe that our little Riley will be two years old in just five weeks. We're going to have to start working on saying "two" when people ask how old she is; we're getting some pretty funny looks when she says "ONE!" Mommy always has to follow up with, "Well, she is 1, but she's almost 2." Riley would love each and every one of these items for her birthday! She loves jewelry, dolls, purses, and PINK! Check out these adorable handmade gifts on Etsy if you have the chance.

Button Earrings by JoannaBizu
Addy Cloth Doll by LylaPaige
Pink Necklace by Freja Toys
Little Girls Purse by Doodlescoot Designs

**PLEASE NOTE: These items are not my own work; these photos are not my own photos. These are items that I found on Etsy and love. Please follow the links below the photos if you're interested in purchasing one of these items.

Giveaway: Retro Earrings from Chrome and Cotton

2012-01-29T14:29:00.001-05:00

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

THE WINNER IS COMMENT #2: ANGIE!

Angie, please email me at lauren.daisycottage@gmail.com and I will get you in touch with Jessica!

Today I am happy to introduce you to one of the our new sponsors, Chrome and Cotton. Started by Jessica, Chrome and Cotton is an online store that specializes in re-purposing vintage finds into truly unique and beautiful jewelry. Head on over to her Etsy shop and check out her beautiful items (beware Etsy sellers: her photos will make you jealous!).

Jessica has a variety of items in her shop. From earrings and necklaces to adorable bracelets, you won't be disappointed with what you see. Just check out the bracelet and earrings below. I love them!

Now for the fun and exciting news:

This week we are giving away a pair of earrings from Chrome and Cotton!

The winner will get to choose ONE (1) of these sets of earrings.

Here's what has to be completed to enter:

Visit Chrome and Cotton on facebook and "like" her page. Leave a comment below letting us know that you did.

For additional entries:

Visit the Chrome and Cotton Etsy shop and let us know which item is your favorite in the comments below.
Are you a fan of Daisy Cottage Designs on FB? If you are, let us know in the comments below!

CONTEST WILL END ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH AT NOON. ENTRIES MADE AFTER THAT WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED IN THE DRAWING. OPEN TO US RESIDENTS ONLY. WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN BY RANDOM.ORG AND ANNOUNCED IN THIS POST AFTER THE WINNER HAS BEEN DETERMINED.

Pinterest Finds: Crochet Ideas

2012-01-25T13:22:00.000-05:00

Don't you love Pinterest? I have to admit, in the early stages of this pregnancy, I spent way too much time perusing various baby boards. Anyways, if you're not a follower of my boards, you can find me here. If you like this blog, you'll probably like my crochet ideas board the most.

Here are a few ideas from my crochet ideas board that I'm hoping to try before little Caroline joins our family.

First, how adorable is this flower cushion from Attic 24? I want to make one for the glider in Riley and Caroline's room in colors to match their decor. A huge, colorful button would look great in the center of a solid-colored flower, too!

Riley is also crazy about monkeys right now so I would love to make her the girl version of this adorable crocheted monkey from bethsco blog. Maybe it would be a nice gift to give her right after the baby's born.

Finally, I would love to add a hat like one you could make from this pattern from Emie Grace Creations to the shop in the near future. These are totally adorable and fun. The bobbles give it such a great texture!

Do you have a crochet/knitting board? If you do, I'd love to follow it! Leave me a comment with the link and I'll check it out.

***PLEASE NOTE: As with my Gift Guide post, these items are not my own work. They are the work of the shops or blogs linked in this post. If you like what you see, please take a moment to visit their site/blog and let them know!

Treasury Tuesday

2012-01-24T17:45:00.000-05:00

Handmade Gift Guide: Owls

2012-01-23T14:17:00.000-05:00

1. Little Owl Bangle Bracelet by Frosted Willow

2. LARGE ORIGINAL wooden cut-out Owl Bow Holder by La Dee Dah Art

3. Owl Sewing Pattern - Owl Pillow Pattern - PDF Pattern by G & G Patterns

4. Pink Owl Baby Girl Birth Announcement by paperspice

**PLEASE NOTE: These items are not my own work, these photos are not my own photos. These are items that I found on Etsy and love. Please follow the links below the photos if you're interested in purchasing one of these items.

Crochet Break

2012-01-21T23:11:00.000-05:00

This week has been super busy both in the world of crocheting and otherwise. To get a little rest and family time in, my husband, daughter, and I headed out to a semi-local park today to feed the ducks, take a walk, and spend some quality time together. On this blog, I hardly ever talk about my family. My posts are always about patterns or new items. Just wanted to take this opportunity to share a little bit of our lives with you. God has greatly blessed me with a wonderful husband and little girl and I couldn't be more thankful! We can't believe how soon our family pictures will include a new member. I know due dates are rarely correct, but if mine is, this little bundle will be with us in 60 days!

the only shot of all 3 of us... could be worse

my amazing husband, David

sweet Riley Grace looking like a ragamuffin with her messy hair

Free Owl Hat Pattern Issues

2012-01-17T15:01:00.000-05:00

For those of you who were having trouble downloading the owl hat pattern, I have included the text to the newborn size in the text of the original post. You can find that here. Please remember, I'm happy for you to use the pattern for whatever purposes you'd like, but please be certain to link back to the pattern if you talk about it on your blog or sell it online. I really appreciate it!

Of course, if you don't crochet, you can always buy one here.

Etsy Treasuries

2012-01-16T15:35:00.000-05:00

New Items: Chunky Necklace & Heart Headband

2012-01-13T11:23:00.000-05:00

This chunky necklace is super simple! I just created a chain necklace (I think the first round had 70 chains, second had 80, and third had 90... probably would do fewer increases next time). I then attached my favorite flower with an alligator clip. I need to play around with this necklace to help it stay in position. The flower had a tendency to fall to the front. I'm afraid I'm going to have to make it smaller and use a lighter (still worsted but just a lighter material) yarn. We shall see. I'm definitely going to be playing around with it because I think it's adorable! I'll update again when I've added it to the shop.

The heart headband was easy, too. Just find a cute heart pattern, whip it up and attach it to the headband of your choice. I like a simple look so I made a simple chain headband, attached ribbon to the ends, and tied it in the back. It actually stayed on most of the day! Riley knocked it off a couple of times when she was trying to duck under something, but something that stays in for hours at a time is a winner in my book! I can't wait to make more in different color combos. Riley definitely needs one in turquoise and lime.

New Items: Newsgirls, Sock Monkeys, & Football Hats

2012-01-05T23:32:00.000-05:00

I finally had some time to add some new items to the shop this week. I'm very excited about all of them. It's nice to break up the monotony of owl hats even though I still love seeing those completed (just made a new color combination today!). I have the girl monkey hat at the photographer's right now! I can't wait to see the sweet photos she takes!

Boys Sock Monkey Hat

football hat (with or without ribbon)

Flower Football Hat... can't you see this with the flower in your team's colors?

Owl Purse

2011-12-27T17:26:00.000-05:00

I've wanted to make Riley an owl purse for quite some time now, and I have just now found the time. I know there's a pattern on Etsy, but I wanted to see what I could do on my own. Using elements from a couple of patterns (including my own owl hat), I made this one for Riley. It'll be added to the shop at the beginning of the year.

Free Pattern: Open Weave Beanie

2011-12-21T17:01:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, we've haven't had any truly cold weather yet. I know those of you up north are jealous of our seventies and sunshine, but we really would like some cooler temperatures. We like wearing sweaters every once in a while, too. Anyways, this hat is one that can be worn regardless of the temperature. Its cotton yarn and open weave allow for plenty of air flow. In fact, Riley is sporting the hat in these pictures as I type. She's in a hat mood today, I think.

Another thing that I like about this hat is the fact that it's quick. Many hats start with several rows of SC increases. Cute? Absolutely! Time consuming? Yep! With this hat, you'll start out like you would a granny square. You can see from the next picture, the top of the hat is still attractive to look at; it's just lots quicker.

To make this hat, here's what you'll need:

1 skein of worsted weight yarn
small amounts of two other colors for the trim at the bottom and the flower
Size I (G for the flower) crochet hook
This flower pattern

Here's the pattern for the hat (Should fit girls approximately 2-4). Experiment with different hook sizes and you might be able to create different sizes.

Ready?

Ch 3.

Round 1: DC twice in the third ch from hook (these 2 DC plus the extra 2 count as a cluster of 3 DCs), ch 1. *3 DC, ch 1* 3 more times into the first ch. You should have 4 groups of 3 DCs. Sl st in the top of the 2 chs).

Round 2: Sl st in the next DC, ch 2, 2 DC in the same stitch. Ch 1. *3 DC in the next ch 1 space, ch 1. Skip next DC. 3 DC in the next ch 1 space, ch 1* around. Sl st in the top of the ch 2. (at the end of this round you should have 8 groups of 3 DCs).

Round 3: Repeat round 2. (at the end of this round you should have 16 groups of 3 DCs).

Round 4: Sl st in next two DCs. Ch 2, 2 DC in the first ch 1 space. Ch 1. *3 DC in the next ch 1 space, ch 1* around. Sl st in the top of the ch 2.

Rounds 5-8: Repeat round 4.

Round 9-15: Ch 1, HDC in the next stitch and in each st around. Mark first stitch of each round. You will not ch 1 at the beginning of each round. You will simply HDC in spiral. At the end of round 15, sl st in the top of the first st and finish off.

Round 16: join a contrasting color. Ch 1, HDC in next st and in each st around. Sl st to the ch 1 to join. Finish off.

Note: I like a thick band at the bottom. If you prefer a thinner band, you could add another row or two of the clusters and take away a few rows of the HDC band.

DIY Flower Pin

2011-12-13T20:41:00.000-05:00

I saw this flower on Pinterest yesterday and fell in love. Either that or I'm just so sick of making owl hats that I jumped at the opportunity to use my hands to create something different. Regardless, I'm pleased with how this flower came out. I'm not sure it fits into the categories of rosette or daisy... maybe a chrysanthemum (you will not believe this... I spelled that right the first time!)? Anyways, I'm still trying to put off making owl hats for just a few more minutes so I decided to post about it and let you know exactly how I made mine.

Materials:

G hook (next time, I think I'd use a bigger hook, perhaps an H or J)
Small amount of cotton worsted weight yarn (used Lily Sugar 'n' Cream in hot pink)

The basic pattern for this flower came from the Crochet Geek website. The linked post even includes a video tutorial. I wanted a bigger flower and knew the shape of petal I wanted, so here's what I went with.

Ch 51.

Row 1: SC in the second ch from hook. *ch 2, skip 1, SC* around. SC in the last ch.

Row 2: *Ch 2, 5 DC, ch 2, sl st* in the first chain loop and in each chain loop until you reach the end. Leave a long tail.

You should have been creating a long spiral of petals. Once you're finished, arrange your spiral into a flower and secure with the tail. After you secure the back, attach a pin or an alligator clip and add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe!

Yarn Color Choices

2011-12-13T10:59:00.000-05:00

These are the current yarn color choices. I work with mostly cotton yarn so, unless otherwise noted, all yarn is cotton. Occasionally, I can't find the right colors in cotton so I'll work with a not-so-shiny acrylic or blended yarn. All hats, headbands, and other items can be made from these colors.

New Owl Hat Colors

2011-12-12T15:03:00.000-05:00

New owl hat color combos are now available in the shop.

hot pink and robin's egg

purple and gray

Chunky Baby Hat

2011-11-30T16:24:00.000-05:00

This week some of my projects have been hats for some "family babies" who have recently arrived or who are soon to come. Two of those precious little ones are from Maryland where it's quite chilly. Needing something that would keep their little noggins warm (those open stitch hats that our babies wear in Florida simply won't cut it there), I made a few of these chunky beanies. Sometimes a flower isn't necessary, and I thought this cream hat looked complete with a simple satin ribbon woven throughout and tied into a cute little bow. I'm super happy with the way this little hat turned out and I'm happy let you know it's now available in the shop!

Black Friday Sale

2011-11-25T10:47:00.000-05:00

Today only, owl hats are on sale for $20.00 and free shipping (US). If you've been thinking about purchasing one, now might be a good time. Orders must be placed by December first to guarantee arriving before Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T22:24:00.000-05:00

Those of us at Daisy Cottage Designs (that would be my husband David, daughter Riley, and me) want to wish you a slightly late "Happy Thanksgiving"! We had a wonderful day with our family and friends thanking God for his many blessings toward us.

This week I have been busy making many owl hats. I finally have had the opportunity to make a few that actually fit Riley. One is even specifically for her (and it's a new color combo to boot). The one below was actually for a friend's little girl, but Riley and I snapped a few pictures of this color combo. We love our little owl.

Remember, if you want to make your own newborn owl hat, you can find that pattern here. As Caroline's arrival draws closer, you can bet that you'll be seeing many different owl hat color combos for our new little chickadee.

Easy Peasy Bow: Free Crochet Pattern

2011-11-21T15:42:00.000-05:00

Regardless of how much I love flowers, sometimes I get tired of using them to embellish every hat, headband, and bag that I make. After making two owl hats for my friend's little girls, I decided to whip out a couple bows to stick on the top. They're super quick, extremely easy, and turn out really cute.

Here's how you can make your own:

Supplies you'll need to grab:

yarn (I used a cotton worsted)
crochet hook (I)
large-eyed needle
alligator clip
hot glue gun

Here's the pattern:

Ch 12.

Row 1: HDC in the 3 ch from hook and in each stitch across (11 including the starting ch). Ch 2, turn.

Rows 2-5: HDC in each stitch across.(11). Ch 2, turn.

Row 6 (worked around the edge): SC evenly around. Work 2 in each corner st. Finish off.

To finish your bow, wrap yarn around the center (I probably wrapped 15 times, but if you like a big fat center, keep going) and tie off. I used the same color yarn, but it would be cute to use a coordinating color, too. Make the bow pretty and attach to an alligator clip with the hot glue gun.

After your done, stick the bow in a little girl's hair and let her enjoy.

Polka Dots & Frills: Free Crochet Blanket Pattern

2011-11-18T13:22:00.000-05:00

Perhaps you've seen the adorable ruffles and dots blanket that Maybe Matilda made a while ago (or this afghan that inspired her). I have loved it ever since I came across it on Pinterest, so I decided to use her blanket as inspiration and come up with my own written pattern (that's just how my mind works... I want a pattern written out just right so I can make it the same time and time again). Needless to say, mine is inspired by her fantastic piece, but I've made it my own by changing up the stitches a little bit, adding more dots, and changing the ruffle entirely. The pattern is also written in three sizes: lovie (approximately 17" x 17"), baby blanket (approximately 35" x 35"), and afghan (approximately 50" x your choice). The pictured blanket is the lovie size because I was trying to use up some yarn.

This blanket is super simple. It's perfect for the new crocheter and has a great finished look. You'll need to know how to double, single, and treble crochet. The only tough part is the bobble. I would get it down pat before attempting the blanket.

Here's my version of the bobble instructions:

Bobble: For the experienced crocheter, you're going to TC 4 together in the same st.

If you have no idea what that means, try reading this:
Start a TC in the next st. Instead of pulling the yarn through the last two loops on the hook like you normally would, you're going to leave the last two loops on the hook. Then you'll do the same thing in the same stitch three more times. This means you'll have a total of 5 loops on your hook. Once you've got all 5 loops, yarn over and pull through all the loops.

If you still have no idea what I'm talking about:
Please see this post (it includes pictures!!) over at Tales from Cuckoo Land.

Here's the pattern I followed using a K hook.

The ch 2 at the beginning of each round does count as the first stitch.

Ch 49 (97, 121).

Row 1: DC in the third st from hook (so you're only skipping 2) and in each st across. Including the skipped chs, you should have 47 DC (95, 119). Ch 2, turn.

Row 2: DC in the next 4 sts (you will have 5 DCs since we're counting the ch 2 as the first st), bobble in the next. *DC in the next 5 sts, bobble in next* across. DC in the last 5 sts, being sure you DC in the starting chs. Ch 2, turn.

Row 3: DC in each st across. Ch 2, turn.

Row 4: Dc in the next st (so you have 2 sts including the ch 2), bobble in the next. *DC in the next 5 sts, bobble in the next* across. DC in the last 2 sts. Ch 2, turn.

Row 5: DC in each st across. Ch 2, turn.

Repeat rows 2-5 until your blanket has reached the desired size.

Frill:

Round 1: SC evenly around all four sides of the blanket. (You can end here if you'd rather not have the frills)
Round 2: Ch 3, 2 TC in the same st, 2 TC in the next st. *3 TC in the next, 2 TC in the next* around. Work 6 TC in each corner.

When I make an afghan for our house, I'm planning on adding the border just at the top and the bottom (think fringe).

This blanket is just screaming, "Set a baby on top of me!" I can't wait until our little Caroline makes her appearance in March.

If you give this blanket a try, please leave a comment with a link so I can check it out! As always, please feel free to sell items you make from the patterns found on this blog, but please include a link so others can find out how to make their own.

How to Earn Swagbucks

2011-11-10T14:22:00.000-05:00

In case all of the followers of this blog haven't heard, Swagbucks is awesome. It's a way to earn virtual currency by searching the Internet. Once you've racked up enough "points," you'll be able to trade them for merchandise or gift cards. In one year, I've won at least $120 in Amazon gift cards. It's definitely not going to make you rich, but it's nice to help save for items you'd like to buy, but have a hard time justifying. I've had my eye on a DSLR and some accessories for a while.

In case you've already joined and are having a hard time racking up bucks, here are my suggestions:

Use the Swagbucks search engine. You'll randomly win points just for doing what you'd usually do on the Internet. I now rarely use Google (my go-to search engine in the past). Why not get "paid" to search for crochet patterns?
Do a search for websites you visit on a regular basis (think Ravelry, facebook, and Pinterest). Add those searches to your favorites bar instead of the direct link. You'll be doing a Swag search every time you visit those sites rather than going directly there.
Vote in the daily poll. I know, I know... it's only 1, but they add up, too.
Follow the NOSO (no obligation special offer) path every day. You'll be rewarded 1 or 2 bucks every day. Again, those add up.
Watch Swagbucks TV. Well, you don't really have to watch it. Just have it playing in another window, mute your computer, and do what you sat down at the computer to do. Every time your meter fills up, you'll win 3 bucks. You can earn up to 75 per day. If you got all 75 per day, you'd get over 27,000 in a year. That equals about $300 in Amazon gift cards. I've yet to earn all 75 in a day (it would take quite a while), but I have been able to earn quite a few each day since I learned this trick.

Here's how these numbers add up:

If you do the Daily Poll, NOSO path, and get 9 points from watching Swagbucks TV a day, you'll earn at least 11 points in a day. That's 77 in a week or 308 in a month. That means you'd earn at least $5 in Amazon gift cards every other month. That's not including what you win doing searches or other special offers.

I know it's not much, but these things do add up. If you haven't signed up, do it now! If you have, start taking advantage of some of the features to earn bigger bucks.

Free Owl Hat Crochet Pattern

2011-07-11T20:19:00.000-04:00

Head on over to this page to check out the current (Posted January 29, 2012) giveaway!

After making so many changes to owl hat patterns I've purchased on Etsy, I've finally come up with my own owl hat pattern that doesn't resemble them at all (although the eyes are similar... how many ways are there to crochet circles?). Right now, I've only written the newborn size, so I'm offering it free on my blog. In the future, I'd love to write and sell some patterns on Etsy, but we'll just have to see how that goes. Of course, if you don't crochet, you can always purchase one from my Etsy shop :).

Here's a picture of the hat I made this week using my own pattern:

While it does look cute sitting on a basket, I assure you it looks even more adorable on a real, live newborn.

This hat should fit babies whose heads measure between 13 and 15 inches.

Materials:

Worsted weight yarn (I generally use Lily Sugar ‘n’ Cream)
J hook (or whatever size necessary to achieve correct size)
H hook for eyes
Buttons for eyes

Pattern Notes:
Pattern is worked through both loops.
This pattern is worked in spiral until you reach the earflaps There will be no chains or slipstitches at the ends of a round unless otherwise noted.

Newborn:
This hat should fit babies whose heads measure between 13 and 15 inches.

Directions for Hat:
Ch 2.
Round 1: 12 HDC in second chain from hook. (12)
Round 2: *1 HDC in the next stitch, 2 HDC in the next stitch* around. (18)
Round 3: *1 HDC in the next 2 stitches, 2 HDC in the next stitch* around. (24)
Round 4: *1 HDC in the next 3 stitches, 2 HDC in the next stitch* around. (30)
Round 5: *1 HDC in the next 4 stitches, 2 HDC in the next stitch* around. (36)
Round 6: *1 HDC in the next 11 stitches, 2 HDC in the next stitch* around. (39)
Rounds 7-9: HDC in each stitch around. (39)
Round 10: HDC in each stitch around. Sl st in next. (39) Join a new color in the same stitch as the sl st.
Round 11: Ch 1., HDC in the next stitch and in each stitch around with the new color.
Rounds 12-14: HDC in the next stitch and in each stitch around. On round 14, sl st in next.

Stop here for a beanie and add one round of SC. If you’d like earflaps, keep going. I don’t chain at the end of a row. I work the first HDC of the next row in the last HDC of the previous row. If it makes you nervous to skip the chains, you can replace the first HDC of each row with 2 chains.

Round 15: 1 HDC in each of the next 10 stitches.
Round 16: Turn. 1 HDC in each stitch across.
Round 17: HDC decrease, HDC across to last two stitches, HDC decrease in last two stitches. (8)
Round 18: Turn. 1 HDC in each stitch across
Round 19: HDC decrease, HDC across to last two stitches, HDC decrease in last two stitches. (6)
Round 20: HDC in each stitch across. (6)
Round 21: HDC decrease, HDC across to last two stitches, HDC decrease in last two stitches. (4)
Round 22: HDC decrease, HDC across to last two stitches, HDC decrease in last two stitches (2).

I leave 8 stitches between the earflaps in the back and 11 between them in the front. You can play around with this and decide how you like them spaced.

Round 23: Single crochet around the entire hat.
Cut yarn and weave ends.

Facial Features (Leave long tails for sewing on):

Eyes (Make 2). Use an H hook.
Ch 3.
Round 1: 9 DC into the third ch from hook. Sl st in the first double crochet (not the chain 2).
Round 2: Ch 1, HDC in the same stitch. 2 HDC in each stitch around. I work in one extra HDC so I can sl st in the first HDC rather than in the ch.
Round 3: Ch 1, HDC in the same stitch *1 HDC in the next stitch, 2 HDC in the next* around.
Fasten off and weave ends. Sew a button in the center.

Beak:
Ch 6.
Row 1: 1 sc in second ch from hook, HDC in next, DC in next, DC in next, TC in next. Fasten off.

Ears:
Ch 2.
Round 1: Work 5 SC in the second ch from hook. (5)
Round 2: 2 SC in each stitch. (10)
Round 3 –8: SC in each stitch around.
Fasten off and sew on hat.

You're welcome to make this hat and sell it, but please link back to this post so others can give it a try. Also, please share pictures of your projects! I'd love to see what color combinations you come up with.

Don't forget to checkout the current giveaway!

Interview with Andrea from Andralynn Creative Designs

2011-07-07T11:46:00.000-04:00

This week's feature is with Andrea Doss from Andralynn Creative Designs. Described by Andrea as fun, silly, and colorful, her prints are inspired by her children. Enjoy reading more about the girl behind the shop in the interview below.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I don't like seafood, clowns, or bad action movies. I do, however, love my goldfish, the circus, and good action movies (the difference between a good action movie and a bad action movie is very subjective). I also love irony.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

My life can be summed up in three words: Mother. Wife. Artist. Okay, maybe I should add "Chocoholic" in there, too. When I'm not running around chasing kids, feeding people, and cleaning up messes, I'm painting and making messes myself. Since everyone in my family is the creative type (and everyone knows creativity equals disaster zone) it's a twenty-four hour job.

What three words describe your Etsy shop?

Whimsical, imaginative, and fun! Three very important ingredients for art and for life.

How long have you been crafting? When did you start selling on Etsy and what inspired you to give it a try?

I started my career as an artist when I was four-years-old and decided to paste dozens of my drawings to the bedroom walls to decorate and add a little pizazz. Needless to say, my mom didn't appreciate my artistic initiative, but I haven't stopped creating since that day. I've had other things take priority in my life over my art and I never took the extra step to really start selling. Going to shows, applying to galleries, selling to boutiques--these things took too much time that I didn't have. Then I found Etsy and I fell in love with online selling.

What does your craft space look like? Are you an organized crafter or would you be embarrassed for us to take a peak at your workspace?

I dream of the day when I have my own studio space where I can leave my works in progress out without worrying the cat might take a nap on them. I like to imagine a space where I don't have to worry about splattering a little paint here and there when I'm in a creative frenzy (I'm a very messy painter. My poor house.). However, right now I have to content myself with the kitchen table. It's piled high with all my painting supplies with just enough space left over for my daughter to eat her cereal in the morning. Sometimes, I clear everything off and the table magically transforms back to a nice place to eat instead of a worktable/easel. That never lasts long.

Currently, what are your favorite 2 items from your shop?

Imaginary Friends

and The Round Up which sold.

Finally, what suggestions would you make to someone who’s thinking about starting an Etsy shop?

Don't give up. It takes time and a lot of work to get your shop noticed.

Thanks so much for your time, Andrea! Since one of your favorite items sold (YAY!), I'm going to pick a couple extra to feature.

Though hard to pick, I think these bookends are probably my favorite item (not to mention I had the exact same edition of The Secret Garden when I was a kid).

I love the fact that this shop is filled with owls! Check out this R print.

I had to choose this cute print because my husband loves squirrels.

And finally, how about this unique take on the blushing bride?

Etsy Interview with Gina from Gina D Jewels

2011-06-29T18:31:00.000-04:00

This week's interview is with Gina from Gina D. Jewels. I wish I had time to go into what I think about her fantastic jewelry but I'm about to walk out the door!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a working mother of three spoiled boys, one being my husband, a seventeen year old and five year old. I have a very busy schedule but always find the time to “craft”. I live and breath ideas. Sometimes I even feel as if my “dream time” is consumed by my crafting.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Thoughful

Caring

Loving

What three words describe your Etsy shop?

Romantic

Differrent

Inprocess

How long have you been crafting? When did you start selling on Etsy and what inspired you to give it a try?

I have been crafting since birth I think. I don’t rememeber a time I didn’t “create”. I started selling on Etsy in January. One day in November of 2010 my husband came home and informed me that his job might be at risk and that he would be informed sometime in December if his department would be let go. I didn’t sleep that night, more mad at myself then anyone else. I was upset that we lived life paycheck to paycheck because of the “lifestyle” we were living. I was barely paying the bills with two incomes, I knew we couldn’t do it on one. So I decided that was it. I have a talent that I was putting to waste not sharing it with anyone. I starting searching the internet on setting up a website and came across Etsy, I decided while I was setting up my website, researching and so on (since I’m technically challenged) that I would try out Etsy in the mean time.

Besides creating, what are you passionate about?

As is every mother on earth, I am passionate about my family. I am passionate of others as well. Sometimes I find it a fault of mine. I am so passionate and caring that it seems draining at times.

What does your craft space look like? Are you an organized crafter or would you be embarrassed for us to take a peak at your workspace? (Please share a picture if you’re willing)

I am extremely organized and honestly I don’t have much choice. My work space is small and if I wasn’t organized there would be no room to do anything.

Currently, what are your favorite 2 items from your shop?

I would have to say my favorite items in my shop are the Nude Shoes adorned with Swarovskis

and the gold bangle with blue swarovski crystals. I am in love with “sparkly” things.

What are some of your favorite Etsy shops?

Etsy is amazing, the talent on there is unbelievable. I would hate to list my favorites because honestly I have SO many.

Finally, what suggestions would you make to someone who’s thinking about starting an Etsy shop?

I would suggest that they research shops that are doing well, learn how to photograph, work on their SEO. I would suggest READING AND READING all they can on Etsy forums. I made the big mistake of just diving right in with no clue as to what I was doing. It’s hard once something is posted to go back and re-shoot pictures. I would suggest learning all you can to make your shop look professional before “setting up shop”.

Thank you so much for the opportunity and appreciate you taking the time to read this.

Thanks, Gina! Now it's time for my favorites.

I love this teal hair accessory! It would be perfect for a little flower girl!

I also wish I had a reason to carry this adorable handbag!