The Handmade Department Store

Izoralee Designs: Unique and interesting jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 04:27:00 +0000

Blue and green choker by Izoralee Designs

Izoralee Designs of Melbourne creates some of the most unusual jewelry pieces around. Working with a wide variety of materials like Czech glass beads, wooden beads, raw amber, and metal, each piece makes it's own dramatic statement.

Metal and glass bracelet by Izoralee Designs

One of my personal favorite Izoralee pieces is the glass and metal bracelet shown above. To me, it seems like an artistic, conversation piece that you can take with you everywhere!

El-wire cosutmes for Burning Man 2007

Additionally, the artist can assist with designing impressive costumes, like the ones shown here, worn to Burning Man 2007 (how fun- I'd love to hear about that trip!). Check out the website to see a very cool belly dance costume created by Izoralee Designs.

Dark green woven necklace with orange and yellow flowers

Izoralee Designs can be found at many local and state-wide art markets and vendor shows, the next of which is FridayFest in Historic Downtown Melbourne on January 9, 2009 from 6 to 9 pm. Stop by the table to view the pieces available or visit the Izoralee catalog here.

Become a piece of fine art with Lifecasting

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:56:00 +0000

Lifecast: "Lady in Waiting"

Several months ago, I met sculptor Amy Wieck owns One Stop Prop Shop in Orlando. She can do some really amazing work, like the bronze sculpture of the scorpion shown below. But she also does something really unique: she can create a truly personal piece of artwork by casting your body.

Bronze sculpture: "Desert Legacy"

Her statement: "Currently, I am exploring the complex nature of personalities. I am fascinated by the duality of both harmonious and hypocritical traits within each of us. Utilizing a technique called Lifecasting, I capture a moment in time of real people, create multiple copies of each person, and then give each piece their own history. Each piece is painted with many layers of paint in order to create visually intriguing finishes. By giving the same image different finishes, I am expressing the complex nature of personalities. Faces have not been included in order to avoid giving a specific identity to any of the pieces. Instead each torso could be anyone or everyman."

A bellycast by Amy Wieck

My personal favorite, and what I imagine to be the most sentimental type of bodycast shown on Amy's website is the bellycast, which immortalizes your pregnancy "bump". Similarly, once baby is born and has grown up a little, she can cast your child's hands or feet and create quite a conversation piece.

Lifecast of a child's feet

Amy's experience is incredible, as seems to be her life. With a degree in Studio Art and minors in Theatre Tech and Film Studies, she has worked creating figures for Ripley's Believe It or Not!, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Japan.

Amy in the process of a Butterfly Bodycast

Amy also offers fun seasonal items. For Halloween, she can create masks, decor, and even scary-funny fake arms, like the one shown below.

Halloween Hand

You can find Amy's work at her personal website here or at the One Stop Prop Shop website here.

Fun with Fuffalumps

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 03:10:00 +0000

Jackie Rabbit and friends, Fuffalumps by Jen of Creations by JDB

One of the artists showcasing her work at the Saint Cloud Gift Gallery, featured here on September 30, is Jen, of Creations by JDB, in Orlando. She creates the most adorable and interesting plush creatures called Fuffalumps! They are friendly, monsterish creatures that will put a smile on anyone's face, just about guaranteed.

Motorcycle Morrie, $45.00

Jen started making her Fuffalumps in 2006 after reading Stupid Sock Creatures by John Murphy. She started experimenting with her own creatures, using different fabrics and embellishments (such as buttons), often drawing inspiration from the fabrics themselves, wondering, "What creature would you like to be today?"

A friend helped her decide on the name "Fuffalumps," which was drawn from several nicknames she had growing up. Her husband helped out with the asymmetric eyes for the Fuffalumps, which is now their trademark. The Fuffalumps have become very popular: "I get buttons, socks and fabrics from people now all the time," says Jen, "I love getting personal fabrics and making a unique character just for that particular person."

Kathy Fuffalump, $45.00

Today, the demand for Fuffalumps has become so great that Jen sells them- or, rather, she puts them up for adoption- at several art/craft galleries as well as on Etsy. Included in the list of the many places to find Fuffalumps is, of course, the Saint Cloud Gift Gallery in downtown historic Saint Cloud, the Florida Craftsman Gallery in Saint Petersburg, The Gallery at Cedar Hollow in Malvern, PA, the Sugar Plum Shoppe in Clearwater, The Prickly Pear in Tallahassee, Gallery Zarragossa in Pensacola, and Full Circle Gallery in Fort Walton Beach. Whew! Way to go, Jen, on getting your creations out there!

Circle Suzie

You can see more pictures, get more info, and contact Jen from her website by clicking here. And if you're ever nearby one of the galleries listed above, stop in and take a look at these adorable creations in person. They're all about fun.

PS- if you visit Jen's Etsy shop, you can see paintings and other artwork and creations in addition to the Fuffalumps!

Thanks! Updates on contest voting...

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:33:00 +0000

In the last few months, I solicited your votes for both me, on the WESH-2/CW-18 A-List for "Best Wedding Invitations in Central Florida" and for Major Tommy, who had a piece chosen for the Etsy Chainmailler's Guild "Linked to the Sea" contest.

Both contests are now over, and we both placed second! Not at all bad for either of us, considering the competition we were up against! So thanks a bunch for your votes and your support!

If you ever have an event to announce, a contest you need votes for, or something craft-related that you'd like to publicize, please shoot me an email. I'd be happy to help you spread the word!

New Opportunity, New Venue: The Saint Cloud Gift Gallery

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:30:00 +0000

On October 15, the Saint Cloud Gift Gallery will open inside the Old Post Office Building in downtown historic Saint Cloud, and artists and craftspeople from all over Central Florida have the opportunity to showcase and sell their work at this new venue (keep reading for details). Set up as a "year-round arts festival," the upscale gallery will feature three main rooms: one for fine art and upscale crafts, one for country crafts, and one for seasonal holiday crafts. There is also a classroom that can hold up to 18 students.

Linda Portka and her daughter-in-law, Corine Reser, have decided to open this venue because arts festivals and craft fairs are one of their past times, but during the off-season, they never had anywhere to buy their gifts. Hopefully, this new gallery will fill that need and satisfy their passion. "We love seeing all the neat things that our amazing members are bringing to the store," says Linda, "Some have never displayed their work outside of family and friends, so bringing their things to us is a big step."

A Baby Egg with Bear by Linda Portka

Linda is a potter and will have her pottery studio in the back of the gallery. Her specialty is "Baby Eggs," one of which can be seen above. They will be available for purchase at the new gallery, but can also be purchased on Linda's website. Most eggs range in price between $60 and $100 and there are many variations on the theme.

Corine's speciality is 4-foot tall custom Santas with ceramic faces and clothed with vintage fabrics, lace, and fur. She will happily include the customer's own toys in Santa's sack, as well. Corine's custom Santas range in price between $800 and $1000.

If you would like your own work considered for display at The Saint Cloud Gift Gallery, there are three levels of membership:

Gold: Requires the member to work at the store one day per month, pay no commission on items sold through the store, and they can use the training center for 20% of their class fee. This membership level is $40.00 per month.
Silver: Requires no store sitting, but the artist must pay 20% commission on items sold through the store. The classroom can be used for 25% of their class fee. This membership level is $40.00 per month.
Bronze: Straight consignment at 33%. There is no membership fee for this level.

For more information and to submit your work for consideration, call Corine at (407) 973-9960. Visit the website for details and to see the artists currently on board at the gallery.

Best of luck to Linda and Corine!

Vote for #22!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 22:23:00 +0000

One of our readers and prior featured designers, Major Tommy, had a piece selected for the Chainmailler's Guild "Linked to the Sea" contest! This piece is his own version of the "Heart of the Ocean" necklace from the Titanic, although it has a completely different style and story behind it. You can view and vote for his necklace, #22 on the listing, which is also shown above, as well as the other pieces selected for the contest, at the Etsy Chainmailler's Guild website.

There are only 6 days left to vote (probably 5 by the time this email is sent to you), so visit the site, view the pieces, and vote for your favorite 2. Again, #22 is Major Tommy's piece- scroll to the bottom to view!

The winning chainmailler receives a bundle of supplies to create more beautiful jewelry, so your vote really counts! Also, if you leave a comment on the Chainmailler's Guild website for the post, YOU will be entered to win one of the pieces shown!

Good luck, Major Tommy!

Obamawareness + Craft Fair

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:53:00 +0000

For those of you who are both crafters and Obama supporters (or either/or), there will be a fundraising event and craft/vendor fair on Sunday, September 28 at the Cocoa Beach Pavilion from noon to 9 pm. Vendor tables are still open for this event, so keep reading if you're interested in having a table. The turnout is expected to be very good for this event, so if you get a table, bring your best stuff!

There will also be information booths on where Obama stands on the issues, voter registration, kids' activities, food, music, an auction and a raffle. There is a $5 suggested entry donation for guests to the event.

What: Obamawareness Festival

When: Sunday, September 28 from noon to 9 pm

Where: Cocoa Beach Pavilion, Tom Warriner Blvd (off Minuteman Causeway), Cocoa Beach

Expect to hear music all day from: Acoustic Alliance Band, Al Scortino & Norm McDonald, Bluesgotus, Jenn Weidley, Matt Riley, Mike Runion, One Street Over, Robin & Eddy, Terry Kelly, Tina Eno, and Wynn Walent.

You can find more information on the event on the MySpace page here. To sign up for a table or to donate an item for the auction or raffle, you can find the contact information for Jen, the organizer, at the above website.

Thanks to a reader for sending the info on this event and vendor opportunity! If you have a craft-related event you need to spread the word about, please email me!

The Sheryl Paige Benefit

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:13:00 +0000

Tomorrow, which is Saturday, September 13, there will be a benefit for a local musician named Sheryl Paige who was diagnosed with cancer a few short months ago. Some of you may know Sheryl as the wonderful woman who runs Mamapalooza in Brevard County.

What: The Sheryl Paige Benefit

When: Saturday, September 13, from noon to 9 pm

Where: The Gathering, 6 Rosa L. Jones Drive, Cocoa Village

Starting at noon and running until 9pm, there will be both an indoor and an outdoor stage on which some of the most popular bands and musicians will be taking the stage every hour. Yes, that's right, every hour, you choose from two performances.

For a cover charge of $7 per person, you're not only doing a wonderful thing for a wonderful person, but you're getting a great deal on a full day of entertainment! From what I've been hearing, there will also be opportunities to win prizes. Oh, and food will be provided by All That Jazz Cafe!

I know Sheryl and she is a warm, thoughtful, upbeat person who is always giving to others first. Whether you know Sheryl or not, come to the benefit tomorrow. Bring your friends and family. You'll have fun!

Getting APositive Vibe

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:20:00 +0000

Custom, hand-painted pillow, $30.00

Last night I met this really cool artist in Orlando named Tara Preston who loves to paint. She owns APositive Vibe Design, Inc.: "An interior decorating business with an artsy feel." I can vouch for Tara that she really does have a positive vibe; she was so enthusiastic about her work that I could not wait to get home to check out her website!

Custom hand-painted pillow, $30.00

Custom, hand-painted pillow, $30.00

While Tara can fill just about any interior decor need, from custom murals to hand-cut stencils, it's her hand-painted pillows that really caught my eye. The colors are so bold and the patterns so striking and distinct.

Custom hand-painted pillow, $30.00

Tara also has a selection of prints of her canvas paintings that would add a special vibe to any home decor.

Begin to Feel the Music
36" x 36" Giclee Print, $280.00

You can see pictures of Tara's murals, interior decorating, custom stencils, and more at her website here. To buy one of her hand-painted pillows, visit her eBay shop here.

Borrow Jennifer's Jewels

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 19:24:00 +0000

Whew! A busy summer makes for less blogging, eh? Maybe I'll get my act together, here... Some day...

Mocha Pearl Cluster Ring

So last week, I went to a women's networking event in Orlando and I met this man who looked a little uncomfortable and out of place. It turns out, he was there in place of his wife, Jennifer, who wasn't able to make it (everyone smile and say, "Awww!"). And furthermore, it turns out his wife Jennifer makes beautiful jewelry and very interestingly, allows you to rent it and then she gives a percentage of your rental fee to charities. Thus the name: Borrow My Jewels. What a fabulous idea! But don't worry, you can still buy it, too.

Juicy Couture inspired Bracelet

Jennifer's specialties are pearls and Swarovski crystals, although she occasionally does something different, like the Juicy Couture inspired bracelet seen above.

Pearl Earrings

To see all of Jennifer's current designs and to get in touch with her about renting or buying her jewelry, visit her Borrow My Jewels here.

Stylehive: Tooting your own horn

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 01:42:00 +0000

Continuing with the series we started a few weeks ago about free or cheap ways of attracting attention to your indie business or handcrafted goods, today let's talk about Stylehive. Stylehive is "an online style club for people who live for fashion, design and shopping. Part social-networking club, part pop-culture lab, Stylehive is one big ensemble cast of trendsetters creating, discovering and buying the next big thing!"

At first glance, it might not seem like it's the best place to be for indie crafters... But thinking outside the box, this website provides an opportunity to toot your own your own, show off your favorite handcrafted pieces, and hope that people will start following your style.

Basically, the website operates by allowing members to bookmark items found on the web (and yes, you are not only allowed, but encouraged to post your own products). Other visitors and members can then search for items (i.e., "jewelry", "art", "furniture", etc.) and when they find something they like (which could be something of yours), they have the option of including it in their hive. Members can "follow" other members, so your item has the potential of becoming "popular". Because the bookmarks include a link to the website the item is posted on, as your item becomes more popular, more and more traffic is being driven to your sales page and your website in general. Plus, it just feels good when other people say they like your stuff ;)

Advantages:

It's free and your item(s) has the potential of being viewed by lots of people
Blogs, magazines, and newspapers search Stylehive to find cool new products and interesting new designers
As you bookmark more items from your own website, your SEO may increase and your shop may rank higher on search engine searches (this was true for my shop, when I was bookmarking on Stylehive regularly)
This is a shopping website; people search it because they need to buy something- hopefully that something will be yours
Members can create "wishlists" for holidays and gift-giving events, similar in some ways to a registry
Your shop might become part of "the next big trend" (hehe, yes I am being partly sarcastic, but hopefully you'll still get my point!)

Disadvantages:

This is yet another thing to do- if you don't bookmark your own goods on a regular basis, this website won't work for you; it can also be yet another distraction if you're the type (like me) who is constantly checking back on items you've posted to see if people like it!
This website works best for "stylish" items- things you can wear or decorate your home with; with that said, jewelry is really popular on Stylehive!
Don't expect huge results; just remember that every little bit helps
The website tends towards high-fashion goods rather than handmade goods, BUT it also tends toward funky and unusual items, which handmade goods often are...
Yeah, the whole concept does seem a little silly... But you'll still be reaching an audience who might not otherwise be looking for you

So there you have it. For more details, visit Stylehive.

PS- I received some feedback about the last post in this series, which was about IndieFriendly and shopping directories. Apparently, the new shop submission function at IndieFriendly isn't working. I've emailed them to see if they're still accepting new shops to their directory but I haven't received a response. I apologize if I posted information that is now useless! I do believe, however, that the other 2 shopping directories listed in that post are working properly.

Land of the Critters

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:59:00 +0000

Pixie the Puglet, $85.00

Cute! Cute! Cute! Nancy Dontigney of Titusville really knows the meaning of that word. She creates teddy bears and other stuffed critters that are fuzzy, furry, and highly detailed, and then puts (some of) them up for adoption on her online store, Dog Patch Critters by Nancy.

Java Joe, $120.00

Her jointed teddy bears are full of expression and each comes with a story, like little Bernadette, who is button-crazy. But even more impressive are Nancy's non-generic dogs and cats, which accurately capture the appearance of breed! The schnauzer looks like a schnauzer, the Siamese cat looks like a Siamese cat.

Kimmie the Siamese cat, $90.00

Critter-making is Nancy's passion, and according to her blog profile, she spends as much time as possible dreaming them up and then bringing them to life. Speaking of her blog, some of her posts show her progress as she creates a critter, which is kind of interesting. It also mentions a few other places you can buy Nancy's critters, and gives some news on what other activities Nancy's been up to.

Greta the Schnauzer, $85.00

Nancy has a husband and two real dogs, Lexi and Lucy, both dachshunds. To shop, visit Dog Patch Critters by Nancy here, and to read, visit the Dog Patch Critters blog here.

Out-of-Towner Post: A Touch of Stardust

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:54:00 +0000

Sock Monkey Tote/Diaper Bag, $42.50

Well, I have been out of town for almost the last week, visiting my sister in Richmond, VA, for her bridal shower! Yay for my sister! To commemorate my visit to Richmond, I thought I'd post something from a Richmond crafter.

Chocloate Floral Tote, $36.00

I picked A Touch of Stardust, who creates pretty fabric handbags, because a few years ago my wonderful sister bought me a handbag very similar to one of these (although I don't think it was made by the same person), and it has attracted lots of attention.

Bird Applique Wristlet, $22.00

Kim, the shopstress, designs and creates each tote bag, handbag, wristlet, and cosmetic bag by hand using pretty and funky fabric combinations. And she does accept custom orders, so if you're looking for something specific, just send her a message to see what she can do.

Pink Tree Peony Pleated Handbag, $39.00

You can visit A Touch of Stardust here.

Wow, I thought I had a thing for paper...

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:02:00 +0000

Fantasy Castle Paper Sculpture, $50.00

Matthew Ross of Matthew Ross Paper Sculpture in Orlando must have the patience of a saint. He creates incredibly intricate and detailed, trading card-sized sculptures made with tiny bits of paper.

Purple Cat FuzzDrop Paper Sculpture, $38.00

Each tiny bit of paper is embossed, scored, folded, curled, or cut by hand and then glued in its place. The end result is a whimsical, dimensional, miniature paper masterpiece.

Raven Paper Sculpture PRINT, $6.00

These sculptures would make a great collectible and can be displayed in a window tin or a shadowbox. And Matthew offers prints of his sculptures, also.

Visit the Matthew Ross Paper Sculpture shop here and browse the selection of sculptures, prints, and original doodles.

IndieFriendly: Promoting your handcrafted business online

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 03:30:00 +0000

Your handmade business could be Editor-Approved, too!

This is summer, and retail sales almost always drop during summer, so I thought I'd try featuring some different avenues you can take as an indie crafter to get the word out about your craft specialty and to drive people to your online store.

Today, I want to share the awesomeness of Craft Revolution. Craft Revolution "is restoring the awareness and appreciation of crafts in today's world by promoting them, and the talented people who create them, as high-value, desirable alternatives to the mundane." Right on, Craft Revolution!

In an effort to promote these talented people (read: "you"), Craft Revolution has set up a shopping directory called IndieFriendly. If your craft business meets the guidelines they have established, they will add a link to your site, a thumbnail picture of your homepage, and a short description of what you do to their directory, which is well-searched by people looking for handmade goods. All this for FREE!

Isn't that great? This is an easy, inexpensive way to:

Get your online store linked to, which is great for your SEO,
Promote and market your handcrafted business without paying a dime,
Reach your target market of people who already want to buy what you're selling.

There are actually lots of free-to-join shopping directories out there! Off the top of my head, here are two more that you may want to check out:

If your business is currently listed at another free shopping directory that focuses strictly on handmade goods, please leave a comment with a link to the shopping directory (and your online store ;) ) and help the rest of us out.

If you're interested in hearing more ways to promote your handcrafted business online- for free- stay tuned over the following weeks!

ALSO, I think I'm going to enlist some of our readers who are Etsy shop-owners to give us an introduction to opening an Etsy store, so stay tuned for that, too!

Well, aren't you the cutest little monster I ever did see?

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 04:31:00 +0000

Orange Essie with her caterpillar friend, $42.00

Sometimes the creative genius of people who draw things that aren't real just amazes me. The artist behind MonsterOps is one of those people. MonsterOps is run out of Orlando by an artist that individually hand-paints adorable dragons and monsters doing really adorable things on t-shirts for people of all ages. (Yes, "individually hand-paints" is what I really said.)

Rhombus & Ding, two-headed monster, $26.00

Each dragon has its own captivating story, like the story of Orange Essie (top picture): "Orange Essie is another breed of incredibly intense monster types. She has a great fondness for bugs. Other monsters suggested she become an entomologist, but like many serious scientists before her, she worried the study would destroy her joy of all things buggish."

Mags & Dinky, $38.00

The colors are so brilliant and the dragons themselves are so whimsical and friendly, it's hard not to want to befriend them, maybe even adopt them. And the good news is, the profile said that prints may be coming soon, so in addition to wearing these fantastic little creatures you can invite them to make their home on one of your walls.

You can browse the selection of goods available at MonsterOps Etsy shop here. Or, you can visit the artist most Sundays at the Lake Eola Farmers and Crafts Market in downtown Orlando.

Oh, you lucky "people who sew"!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:55:00 +0000

60's McCall's Bridal Princess Wedding Dress & Bridal Party Pattern, $5.00

I almost called you "sewers" ;) I have a complete treat for you in today's feature! Patternstash is an Etsy shop located in Cape Canaveral and they offer vintage sewing patterns of all kinds! What a great resource for a sewing addiction!

70's McCall's Easy Uncut Halter Jumpsuit, $9.00

Oh, how I wish I could sew! Those of you who know me know that I love to wear dresses in the 1960s styles (I'm in love with those bridesmaids dresses in the top picture)! But they're so darn hard to come by. Personally, I love almost every pattern in Patternstash's collection.

McCall's Purses & Bags Pattern, $3.50

They also offer patterns for aprons, purses, kids clothing, and crafts.

Purple Rain Collage, $15.00

And to top it off, the shopstress makes really cool, retro collages using various fabrics and the pictures from the fronts of the pattern envelopes. What a great decoration for a sewing room- or even any other room, for that matter!

Check out Patternstash's Etsy shop here.

Vote for ME!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 20:49:00 +0000

Click here to vote for me!

All right, all right, I've been trying not to make this blog about me, but I have big news and I need your help!

My business, Dogwood Blossom Stationery & Invitation Studio, has been nominated for the Central Florida WESH-2/CW-18 A-List in the "Best Invitations" category! Yay! So now I need VOTES!

I am competing against 10 other stationery studios. I am the ONLY one representing Brevard County, and I am one of only two representing handcrafted designs.

Pretty please take a very short minute to vote for me here: WESH-2/CW-18 A- List Cityvoter

If you'd like to see a sample of my work before you vote, I'd be happy to mail you one! Just email me at Denise[@]DogwoodBlossomStationery.com (remove brackets when emailing), tell me you'd like a sample and give me your mailing address. All I ask is that if I send you a sample and you like it, please take the time to vote.

You can learn more about Dogwood Blossom Stationery & Invitation Studio and find our handcrafted products at:
Dogwood Blossom Stationery & Invitation Studio, LLC
What You Love To Do (for greeting cards that are exclusive to this shop!)
Space Coast Women (where you can read our brand-new column! Pssst- you can also list YOUR business in the business directory here for free (and you don't even have to be a woman)!)

Voting ends August 8! Thank you for your support! Tell your friends! ;)

Bululu Studios: "Upcycled" goods and so much more!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:59:00 +0000

Contemporary Circles Design Mirror, $25.00

I stumbled upon Bululu Studios today on Etsy. They are located in Melbourne (Brevard County). From the profile: "My name is Mariló. I’m an Interior Designer, married, I have three beautiful girls, a Rock Star husband that he thinks he can fly (He likes Superman) I have a cutie pie named Toto (our guinea pig) and our swimming red betta fish called Max, you know “Betta Max”…old school ;-)"

Lupita Tin Upcycled Robot, $25.00

Bululu Studios offers "upcycled" items, which are items handmade from a collection of items that would otherwise be discarded. I especially love the Superman Comics key racks, of which they have two for sale (one is shown below).

Superman Comics Key Chain Rack, $19.99

They also offer a nice variety of handcrafted jewelry in lots of styles and colors.

Purple Beaded Key Chain, $15.00

Please stop by Bululu Studios and check out their selection of goods, especially the really awesome upcycled goods they have for sale.

Also, check out their blog, which has a lot of GREAT and easy-to-use information on going green.

Baskets by Lyn Keil

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:38:00 +0000

A basket with lid for sale at What You Love To Do

A few months ago, I received a note from Lyn Keil, who makes beautiful baskets. I am just now featuring her and I feel a little terrible it took me so long to post her work! Sorry Lyn!

A collection of burden baskets, for sale at What You Love To Do

Lyn makes a variety of different types of baskets, and from what I read on her blog, she's constantly learning new techniques. It seems she also is an avid crafter of many things other than baskets!

A Market Basket made by Lyn, as seen on her blog

Below, Lyn makes a burden basket from natural materials. Burden baskets are a dying art form, as the technique was usually passed down in Native American families.

Lyn, in the process of making a burden basket

Currently, you can browse and buy Lyn's baskets at What You Love To Do in Cocoa Village.

A turquoise basket with lid, on sale at What You Love To Do

You can also learn more about Lyn and contact her at her blog, Barefoot Meanderings.

Melanie's Orignals on Etsy

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:10:00 +0000

Hand Sewn Hot Pink Felt Money Keeper/Eyeglass Pouch, $5.50

I recently heard from Melanie of Melanie's Originals on Etsy, who wanted me to share the wide variety of handmade crafts she makes from her home in Kissimmee.

Happy Go Lucky Halloween Beads, Sold

Her shop currently has a selection of hand-sewn felt pouches, but she also has sold adorable clay polymer beads in the past (it looks as though she's done some custom orders on those, as well), as well as paintings, holiday gift tags, foot jewelry, and more.

Hand Sewn Pink and White Polka Dot Felt Oval Pouch, $7.00

Visit Melanie's shop on Etsy and check everything she has to offer!

Congratulations to What You Love To Do!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:03:00 +0000

Congratulations to What You Love To Do! They are celebrating their first-year anniversary in June. Visit the store during the month of June and receive 25% of your purchase PLUS enter to win a $25 gift certificate or a 1-hour massage certificate!

Visit their Calendar of Events for more details, or just stop by the store on Brevard Avenue (next to Murdock's Bistro) in Cocoa Village.

Why is What You Love To Do so special? Visit our original post to see why!

Soaking up the goodness

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Fri, 23 May 2008 03:55:00 +0000

There's been a lot of great feedback about the post on Bluejacket Photos from yesterday. So here's another handcrafted business that recently contacted me. Jessi, of Natural Soap Shoppe took the time to answer some of my questions about her soaps, her business, and herself. Natural Soap Shoppe specializes in natural, handmade, vegan soaps, made right here in Brevard County. They have a large selection of wonderful scents, but best of all, the soaps have earned kudos from users from around the country that have gotten much-needed relief from their skin problems. Here is some of what I learned about Jessi:

Chamomile Pear, $5.50

The Handmade Department Store: Jessi, when did you start your business and why?
Natural Soap Shoppe: I started in 2002 as a way to earn extra cash. At the time I was married and stationed in England. I couldn't get a work visa, and the pay on the base wasn't good for the drive. I was bored just sitting at home. At the time I had an infant son, but I am a busybody so I just wanted to do something and make money, too.

Angel by Thierry Mugler, usually $5.50, currently sold out (but coming back!)

THDS: What specifically got you into soapmaking?
NSS: It started out with candles, then gradually led into bath and body (lotions, bath salts, face creams, lip balms, etc.). Then I discovered soap. I tinkered with the recipe until I got it just right, and I found out I liked making soap more than anything else.

THDS: How is your soap different than other soaps out there?
NSS: I have many customers that have skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, and they swear by my soap. One customer said that any other soap made her skin burn, but once she used mine, she finally felt relief after 29 years. My soaps are made the cold process way, using only vegetable and other exotic plant butters. I also use additives like special clays, honey, oatmeal, lavender, chocolate, corn meal, pumice, chamomile, and natural colorants. Some of my soaps are really fun and flirty, but you can be sure they are made using the same nutrient-rich recipe and are great for your skin.

Blackberry Vanilla Musk, $5.50

THDS: What is your personal favorite soap and why?
NSS: I have so many, but I would say Blackberry Vanilla Musk. Not only is this scent specially made for my company, but it is the first soap I ever made with my current recipe. It's the one that was the "winner", so it has a special place in my heart.

THDS: You host soap parties. Tell me about those.
NSS: Yes I do, they are really great. I come over and set up a cute little display in your house. You invite some friends over, and I entertain. My presentation only takes about 10 minutes (I myself hated going to home parties where the person just talked forever, so I keep mine short and sweet). I have raffles and take orders from the party, and I also deliver. I do not have a store front so this is a great way to see my products in person. Plus, my hostess specials are great! If you like soap, then you can't beat free soap, right?

THDS: Do you have any other artistic or crafty hobbies or businesses?
NSS: Nothing arts and crafts related. But I am working on opening a Small Business Consulting website. I had to learn everything I know by countless hours of research and development. I thought it would be great to offer what I know in short little seminars and also offer my knowledge by way of consulting. This is still a work in progress though, but I hope to have it up and running pretty soon.

Summer Romance, $5.50

THDS: Tell us about you.
NSS: I'm a single mother of 2 beautiful children, aged 5 and 7. I'm a full-time student at the University of Central Florida and am majoring in Intrapersonal and Organizational Communications with a minor in Business. I love school and plan on getting my MBA. As far as my business, I would love for it to be a big, successful company some day.

THDS: Anything else we should know about Natural Soap Shoppe?
NSS: Right now, it's a home based business, but someday I hope to open a store. In the meantime, I have an online shop and I love doing home parties. I have an everyday special- Buy 4 get 1 free- and I have free shipping on orders over $50. I offer gift baskets and crates, and a monthly newsletter that includes special deals and informational tidbits. I also offer my soaps wholesale to stores.

Check out Natural Soap Shoppe and check out their MySpace page, as well.

Thanks, Jessi, for taking the time to share with us!

Also, thanks to Kathryn at What You Love To Do for attracting Jessi to The Handmade Department Store! You can find What You Love to Do here, as well!

Bluejacket Photo Shop: Capturing Brevard in photos

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Thu, 22 May 2008 00:56:00 +0000

"Canaveral Blue"
4" x 6" photo in 5" x 7" mat, $5.00

I have recently been contacted by a few really interesting Brevard crafters and artists and I want to share their work with you! I'm starting today with Bluejacket, who has a photo shop on Etsy.

"Northern Cassowary"
4" x 6" photo in 5" x 7" mat, $5.00

Bluejacket is a photographer in Brevard County, which, for those who aren't from Brevard, is the Space Coast of Florida. He takes nature photos as well as other photos that represent Brevard's "personality", such as shuttle launches (Cape Canaveral), surfers (Cocoa Beach), and hilarious giraffes (Brevard Zoo, Melbourne).

"Liftoff 2"
8" x 10" photo in 11" x 14" mat, $20.00

These photos really capture the free spirit and fun nature of Brevard County and all the wonderful, natural beauty it contains. For me, many of them bring back some of my favorite memories from the past 4 years since I moved to Brevard, which really is a fantastic place to live! And for that reason, I had an incredibly difficult time choosing which photos to post. The ones I picked I did so selfishly because they speak to me, as I'm sure they speak to many other Brevardian readers.

"Splash"
8" x 10" in 11" x 14" mat, $20.00

I recommend strongly that you don't stop with this post- check out Bluejacket's shop on Etsy to see many other photos of Brevard, including many beautiful bird photos, as well as lots of photos of orchids.

"Gone Working"
4" x 6" photo with 5" x 7" mat, $5.00

One more note: Bluejacket can be contacted for portrait, outdoor, and special needs photography through his Etsy contact page.

And finally, special thanks to Major Tommy (who you can also find here) for attracting Bluejacket to The Handmade Department Store! Thank you! Make sure you stop by Major Tommy's shop to see all of his cool new stuff!

Help!

noreply@blogger.com (dogwoodblossom) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:01:00 +0000

Hello all you wonderful readers. You may have noticed that I haven't posted anything in about a month... Well, I need your help!

Basically, I'm having trouble finding Central Florida crafters with high-quality and unique goods that are willing to take 3 minutes to email me information for their feature. Maybe they have a fear of the internet, or maybe a fear of success. Maybe they're confused about what a blog is, or how a feature post can be beneficial to them. Maybe they don't know about The Handmade Department Store... yet. In any case, while running my own handcrafted business, it really isn't feasible for me to run all over this incredibly long county to meet with people for an interview or pictures. Rather, I need them to email their work and pictures to me. It's faster and easier for them and for me.

This is where I need your help. I know many of you personally, and I know that many of you are either handcrafters or big fans of handcrafted goods, so here's what I'm asking... You can help out by doing one thing or several, but please, do at least one:

Tell 2 friends who are handcrafters about this blog and encourage them to subscribe. This will help the crafters we feature to have better sales and grow their business in this- dare I say these hateful words that I loathe and cannot bear to hear- "poor Brevard economy".
If you know someone that actively sells their handcrafted items, strongly encourage them to email me some pictures of their work or better yet- email me a link to their website.
Tell me about some cool events/stores/venues in Brevard that revolve around quality, locally handcrafted goods.
Email me with a short paragraph describing your favorite handmade purchase (preferably purchased locally, but if not, no biggie). Please include the name and contact info (if possible) of the person who handcrafted that purchase.
Tell me how The Handmade Department Store blog can best promote and assist handcrafted businesses in Brevard with their growth and success.

That's it! Thanks for your help! The goal of this blog, again, is to act as a free venue for handmade businesses in Central Florida to promote themselves, announce their events, and get noticed. There are no ulterior motives.