Meet Up Mondays: Faerie Majikk

Talk about a busy weekend! I have to start this blog post off by apologizing to my new friend Lindsey from Faerie Majikk for not sticking to the schedule. Lindsey was suppose to be featured on Friday. Had I not been running around like a chicken with my head cut off on Friday, that would have happened. Lindsey, I am very sorry! 


I took the day off of work on Friday to help out my community. I have been a part of the Seal Beach Race for the past 13 years. This year was no exception as I ran around making sure I had completed my assigned duties. Thankfully, the event went off without a hitch. Another great year to be a volunteer! 


On another exciting note, Window by the Sea will be featured inside our first store front! Hapa Collective, a boutique on Main Street, Seal Beach has graciously asked us to be a part of their shop. We are thrilled! Starting May 6th, Window by the Sea can be seen hanging on their walls waiting for a purchase! What is even better about this, our reclaimed window frames we will be using from this order came for our little home town of Seal Beach. What could be better?!? Local artist, local supplies, local artwork! Talk about a little piece of history! 


Well, enough about me. As I catch up from my crazy busy weekend, I remembered this morning that I had forgotten all about Lindsey. When you see her artwork, it's hard to believe that anyone could forget this artist who creates beautiful fantasies! 


Here she is! 

What makes you unique?

I am a fantasy/gothic artist from NSW, Australia. I am a married stay at home Mum of 5 incredible children. I really think that what makes me unique is the ability to create art that can be enjoyed by every one, I really think deep down every one wants to be able to drift away from reality and it is my art that allows them to do this.

What made you decide to start a shop?

I first discovered Etsy in 2007 in which I opened an Etsy store when I was making jewellery, I really had no idea about tags,titles and all of the business side of things. I added one necklace and that was it until I came back to etsy with a little more understanding. I created faeriemajikk.etsy.com at the end of 2008, with a few pieces of jewellery as well as my art. I did have a bit more of an idea the second time around.

The main idea for wanting to create a shop for my art was simply to be able to sell to international customers as Fantasy is not really too big within Australia (yet). At the time I had 3 children and dragging them around to markets etc was really not ideal.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Being a Mum of 5 is pretty demanding, so when I am not creating I am doing the usual 'mother/housewife' thing. I do not really have time for anything else.

This suits me fine as I am a bit of a homebody/hermit.

Is Etsy your full time or part time business?

Etsy is part time at the moment. I do want it to eventually get to full-time - but this will take time and is not likely to happen until all my kids are in school, my youngest is 8 months old so when she starts school this is when I will really be able to dedicate more time to my art and business.

What other avenues, if any do you share your work with the world? 

I post my art on a few POD sites such as Zazzle, Greeting Cards Universe and just started creating clipart and adding to Meylah.

I have my art licensed with MistyDreamz.com - for those who cross stitch.

you can find some of my art as pdf patterns:

www.mistydreamz.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=28_139

What steps do you take in your creative process?

Like us all, my creative process always begin with an idea - which I may get at any time.

I have a VAPD - Visual Arts Process Diary that I keep for all of my ideas, colour and technique experiments etc.

In the front cover is an envelope I glued with IDEAS on the front. With each new idea I get, I quickly scribble it down on a piece of paper and add it to the envelope. I use these ideas later, change the idea a bit and work on from there. I do not have any set steps, I think life does get in the way of my art so if I were to even describe my creative process it would be Anarchy.

What is your favorite item in your shop and why? 

My favorite item would have to be my Moon Maiden I painting:

It is my favorite for a number of reasons - the first being execution, i think overall she turned out amazing and matched the image in my head perfectly. I also created her using a new technique for me, completely experimental. so she is my favorite because she turned out wonderfully as a result of a big experiment for me which is great, to work outside of the 'paintbox' and create something different.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from any where at any given moment but Nature plays a very big part - Mother Nature in my eyes is the epitome of perfection, she gets everything right.

My children are also a huge inspiration - I love the way a child thinks and plays. Very imaginative, where anything is possible and there are no boundaries in life.

What is your favorite part of being a part of the Etsy community?

The idea that we are a community of people with similar interests and lifestyles is the best part, to know that I can communicate with others across the globe and talk about creating,promoting and parenting all at once is fantastic.

The etsy community is very close and others genuinely want to help others.

Who or what has been most influential in being where you are today?

My husband would have to be one of my biggest fans, he is always eager to tell people how great and talented I am which is great but being very self conscious tends to embarrass me a lot. He is very loud, opinionated and complete opposite of me.

Who is your most influential Etsyian?

Oh now that is very hard as there are so many amazing etsians out there. I do love Stephanie Pui-Mun Law she is amazing and successful.

 

from Faery Entrourage 

When did you know you were an artist/maker?

I would say after selling my first painting. The feeling that someone loved it so much to buy it gives you that wondrous sensation. I enjoy what I do, to the point that it is an obsession. so it is great when others share those feelings too.

Simply putting it out there in the public eye also helped me to shift from the hobbiest to Artist mindset.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

By taking a break and doing something completely different usually helps, not forcing the creative process helps. I will go back to my VAPD and pull out one of my past ideas to get the creative juices flowing or even scrolling through my fave art website helps.

Where would you like to be in ten years?

Hopefully making a living from my obsessions. Selling regularly, teaching workshops locally, licensing my art to more companies and even having a an art book published. So much can happen in 10 years.

If you could share one tip with a new Etsy seller, what is the most important thing to learn and why?

Never stop creating, practice your craft as often as you can, be a sponge and learn new techniques all the time. Believe in yourself and your art - do not allow others to tell you otherwise. Be who you are, not what others want you to be. Stay true to your own vision and always enjoy what you do. Ask for help when you need it.

Thanks for sharing all you do Lindsey! I have a hard time finding time to create and I only have a dog! I don't know how you do it with 5 children. Props to you for being a successful artist and a mom! 

Check our Faerie Majikk here:  

Etsy Store: www.etsy.com/shop/FaerieMajikk

Website: notoftheseworlds.weebly.com

Blog: faeriemajikksfantasyart.blogspot.com

Facebook: facebook.com/FaerieMajikk

Twitter: twitter.com/FaerieMajikk

Giveaway:

Win an Orchid & Reptile print set (3 - 4x6")


Become a fan of Faerie Majikk facebook page to enter!

Welcome Wednesday: Fantastic DIY

As many of you know, I absolutely love to travel. Give me the option between a brand new car or a beat up bicycle and a trip around the world, I'll gladly peddle the 25 miles to work (up hill both ways) for a chance to see the world. I could play the "would you rather" game for days and 9 out of 10 times, pick traveling. I just love to experience other cultures, other's foods and the beauties different countries have to offer. 


Have you ever taken that 100 Places to go Before You Die quiz on Facebook?  If you haven't done it yet, you should check it out. The quiz stats that the majority of Americans have been to less than 9 of the 100 places listed. I have been fortunate to have traveled to 21 of these. But I am not done yet! 


As I dream of all the places I want to travel and the things I would like to see before I "settle down", I was very excited when I met my new Etsy friend Natasha from Fantastic DIY. Natasha is from Southern China. Natasha, if I ever make it to China, I would love to meet you in person and see what you do! 

What makes you unique?

Hi! I am Natasha, the maker behind the Etsy shop FantasticDIY. I am a combination of free spirit maker and business dreamer. I was born in a small seaside city in southern China, Swatow. Swatowian have been regarded as Eastern Jew because of our talent and obsession in doing business, differentiating from people from other places of China, who think holding a position in a state-own corporation is a better career pursuit.

I was brought up mostly in the hands of my grandmother (my mother’s mother) and my mother. My grandmother was a leader of a big craft family: she has 7 children including 6 girls, and all my aunts are best crafters in town. My mother always tells me how they embroidered, knitted, weaved…all those beautiful things, exported to Japan and Europe. I love watching them craft with their magical fingers. My love of crafting, graph, art, creativity and color is rooted in my family.

I remember clearly how my father was surprised by my drawing when I was 3. I drew a leading character in a Japanese cartoon, of course adding more features I thought she should have. My father thought I was talented and I started attending art courses at the age of 6. Unfortunately, under the high pressure of school work I stopped taking formal courses after several years. But my love of painting never died. I joined school workshops and taught myself Chinese traditional painting, charcoal drawing, painting with water color and acrylic. I love experimenting with different medias and playing with paper and color.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I have a full time job in a multinational company. I worked in a skyscraper office and craft in the evening and weekends. In my free time when I am not working or crafting, I spend time with my family and friends, do exercise, yoga, swim, travel and read. I also wrote a fantasy fiction for myself.

Is Etsy your full time or part time business? 

Etsy is my part-time business, but I want to make it full time. I am struggling now because my full time job is taking up so much of my time. I don’t have enough time to create and take care of my shop. But I believe love and insisting will pay off. After all, we have only one chance in our life to follow our own heart.  I couldn't have said it better myself Natasha! I hope every Etsy artist strives to do what they love. It is a difficult way to make money, but I see that many artist have made it, and I know we can too! I read Etsy blog featured seller daily for my inspiration! 

What other avenues, if any do you share your work with the world? 

I recently open a booth in bonanza www.Bonanaza.com/booths/FantasticDIY and a shop in luulla www.FantasticDIY.luulla.com. I also share on pinterest www.pinterest.com/fantasyjewelry and Wanelo (FantasticDIY). I have a twitter account as well (FantasticDIY), and Tumblr (FantasticDIY).

What steps do you take in your creative process?

Beside painting, I have a huge collection of beautiful pictures/photos/ graphs, both digital and hard copy. Whenever I read a journal and see any interesting images I scan them. I do not always have a pen in hand when an inspiration come to me, sometimes it takes me one week to have time to sit down in peace and paint, but I try my best to record everything. I love playing with images and different medias, altering the images, combining them to make creative and fabulous things. Although I selling necklace in my shops, I also make a variety of things for my families.

What is your favorite part of being a part of the Etsy community?

I love being in the Etsy community. Browsing around and you’ll be interested by the endless creativity. Many dreams come true with the help of Etsy.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

Fresh eyes and a curious mind help me so much. The whole world is a big fantasy for me. Walls of sky buildings can be brushed and painted on, cars can be lined up to make a river…I mean, I always fancy myself by thinking how to alter this world. Even we live in dull cities, creativity can be possible if you think in a different way.

Where would you like to be in ten years? 

I would love to chase my dream to be a creative crafter and live on my business , crafting for people all over the globe.

If you could share one tip with a new Etsy seller, what is the most important thing to learn and why?

I think the most important thing is to love what you are doing. Doing business on Etsy is not easy and the only power to lead you along the long journey is your love to what you do.

Natasha, I really love your view points of loving what you do and doing it for all the right reasons. Your artwork is amazing. Thank you for sharing your journey and your work with us! I wish you the best of luck on Etsy and throughout your craft! 

Monday Meets: Copper Tree Art

I can honestly say, I hate Mondays. Sure, most people do, but I can't express enough how awful it is to wake up and realize; the sun is shinning, the birds are singing and it's suppose to be 80 degrees at the beach. But hey, no big deal... let's just sit in an office all day instead! 


Alright, alright, I am complaining over spilled milk. But it's Monday, so I'll allow myself these rants every once in a while! 


This morning was no different than any other Monday. My alarm went off at 5:15am. I promptly hit snooze and went back to bed only to wake up an hour and a half later to realize I had missed the gym and now will be late for work. Perfect! I am so predictable on Mondays! 


Now that I am sitting in front of my computer, starring out the window to what looks like the start of a beautiful day, I remember that I can't be entirely grumpy on this Monday. I have a new Etsy friend to introduce! 

Copper Tree Art

Tell us a bit about yourself; where are you from, what do you do, what makes you unique? 

I grew up in Connecticut and now live in San Diego, CA. I have a passion for animals and am a dolphin trainer at SeaWorld. 

Kendra at her day job. So cool!!!!! 

When did you first discover etsy? 

I love to buy handmade art and jewelry. I found etsy by surfing the web and doing some online shopping. Etsy is full of so many talented artists and provides shoppers a unique way to buy one of a kind products!

Apart from creating things, what do you do? 

I am an avid animal lover. My dog and two cats keep me quite busy. I also love music and enjoy seeing local bands.

Is Etsy your full time or part time business?

Etsy is a part time business for me. I have always enjoyed making my own jewelry. I like to have one of a kind pieces, and what better way to get one of a kind jewelry than to make it yourself! I started with beading and wire wrapped jewelry and through time my passion has evolved into metalsmith jewelry. I began taking metalsmith jewelry classes a few years back and have been hooked ever since. I hope to continue to grow my shop and to develop my talents. 

What other avenues, if any do you share your work with the world? 

Aside from etsy, I occasionally sell my jewelry at a local farmers market.

What steps do you take in your creative process 

I am always looking for new beads and stones that inspire each piece. I usually fall in love with a stone and begin developing an idea for a piece based on each individual cabochon. 

What is your favorite item in your shop and why? 

My favorite item in my shop is my turquoise ring. I love the way copper compliments turquoise resulting in a earthy, organic look.


This is my favorite too! 

When did you know you were an artist/maker? 

I have always enjoyed making things. From an early age I would make my own scarfs, belts and jewelry and clothing. 

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

When I'm in a rut and can't come up with a design, I simply walk away from my workbench and return once I have inspiration.

If you could share one tip with a new Etsy seller, what is the most important thing to learn and why? 

I have joined several Etsy teams which have allowed me to learn tips for my shop, advertise my shop, and draw inspiration from other talented shops!

Dragonfly Brass necklace- Amber and Citrine OOAK

Moonstone copper ring - artisan ring

Kenda, thank you for sharing your beautiful jewelry with us today. Totally turned my mood around on this Monday! Living in San Diego, I am sure you understand my pain when its a nice day and the beach is calling! Although, If I worked with dolphins, I would be much more excited to go to work any day of the week! 

You can find Kendra here: 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Copper-Tree-art-jewelry/232523256821023

Pinterest: pinterest.com/oskee/my-jewelry-www-coppertreeart-com/

Etsy: www.coppertreeart.com

Fabulous Friday with Princess Mia

As I was rushing out the door last night, late for spin class ( I am very rarely on time to anything. Very bad habit) I grabbed a sweatshirt from the back of my closet and threw it on. It wasn't until I was already out the door that I actually took notice in what I was wearing. My high school dance team sweatshirt. Oh the memories! 


In high school I had big dreams. Dreams of being a Broadway actress, dreams of being a Vegas dancer (the classy kind), and dreams of being a writer. Although none of these "dreams" came true, I appreciate the imagination I had as a teenager and continue to keep my mind open to possibilities in my young adult life. (Or as my Dad says, my quarter of a century, down hill from here, adult life) 


I don't think it is a coincidence that I found my high school memorabilia the same day I met Princess Mia. Princess Mia, my newest Etsy friend is an amazingly talented artist that is only in high school. As you look through her work, you won't believe it! Or at least, I didn't! 

Tell us a bit about yourself 

My name is Princess Mia I am from California, I am a freelance artist that works with watercolor and ink. 

When did you first discover etsy? What made you decide to start a shop? 

I don't remember how I came across Etsy, It could be because I was looking to buy earrings and just came across it somehow. I was always into business and owning my own shop, and once I decided to pursue art as a career; I thought the next best thing to do was join Etsy

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Apart from my art, I love to sing and dance.Singing is part of my childhood,It is still something I love to do today. I am pretty decent but I am no professional.I never wanted to learn how to dance I was kind of forced into it. I never knew I could get into it and be apart of a crew. Also I love to hangout with my friends, family and my boyfriend.

Is Etsy your full time or part time business?

Etsy is currently my full time business. I don't have a day jobs and I am just about to finish high school. I opened my shop in December but just started listing items this month. I did a lot of work outside of Etsy for my art before actually opening shop. I have worked with record labels and sold some originals through facebook.Also I was featured on some blogs and online magazines. I have also took in request for original art as well. I hope to make a lot of sales on Etsy and hope to keep it as full time, despite how hard it can be. 

What other avenues, if any do you share your work with the world?

I have my art in a lot of places on the internet. I think it is important to promote yourself if different places. The sites I use are youtube, which gave me opportunities to work for record labels and other music artist. I'm also on Deviantart, which gives me loads of traffic. Other sites would be Facebook,Behance, Bluecanvas,Wix,and twitter.


Wow Mia, I had never even heard of half these sites. Maybe my dad is right, I am getting old! ;) 

What steps do you take in your creative process? 

First I think about what to make. I get inspiration from quotes or experiences I have experienced or someone. 

I try to think of a concept for it. Once I have that down, I start drawing in pencil. I wish I was gifted to never make mistakes when drawing but sadly the next step is ink the pencil work. We all wish we didn't make mistakes! Some of my biggest mistakes in my craft turned into a great idea! 

Then I add in dark details. I love to put in dark elements into my drawings to make them pop. I love to have it be noticeable as if it is in front of the colors.

Then comes the watercolor. If I am drawing a person, I always start at the eyes. I love to keep the colors wet on the paper and then add another color. By doing this, the colors blend smoothly. I put the colors in random areas in which I feel are good placements for them. I never fully color a picture (sometimes, but it is rare)

What is your favorite item in your shop and why? 

My favorite Item Has to be Spill this beautiful accident. I wasn't proud of the results at first but after a while I have grown to love it. It has also produced a beautiful print.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from many places. I don't limit myself to only one source of inspiration. I get inspired from People mainly. Also emotions and life. Along with out non abstract subjects like photographs,music, surrealism , abstract art,the human body, darkness and quotes.

What is your favorite part of being a part of the Etsy community? 

I love all the nice people I have meet here. I justed started out and I have been getting great help and comments from everyone.

Who or what has been most influential in being where you are today? 

Mainly my best friend and my boyfriend. They were always supportive about all the crazy things I wanted to do in life. Pursing art was one of them. They always encouraged me to not give up and just keep working at it. They both know how pessimistic I can be. Negative thoughts can always over power my business but they always keep me on track. I find it very important to have a support system! My boyfriend is also my biggest support. What is nice about the Etsy Community is that you can find the support you need without even asking for it! Keep on drawing girl! 

When did you know you were an artist/maker?

I believe we are all born artist but we often lose that sense of our personal artistic ability as we get older. I discovered I was an artist at the early age of 5.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

I am always in a creative rut! I wish I had an answer to that myself! Try doing something for yourself. For me, its putting down the project I am working on and starting on something entirely different. That way, when I come back to the project that is keeping me "stuck", I have a new perspective on it. I would also join Pinterest. That site REALLY helps me. But beware, it is addictive! 

Where would you like to be in ten years?

I would love to be making a living off my art and hopefully pursue a clothing line that my boyfriend and I are working on. I would also love to have my own solo show for my art work.

If you could share one tip with a new Etsy seller, what is the most important thing to learn and why? 

Learn how to promote yourself! It is a necessary evil but you must in order to get more clients. Also learn different ways of promotions. Settle for the usual ways of promotions but also go beyond that.

Princess Mia, there is no doubt in my mind that you will do whatever you put your mind to. Your artwork is beautiful and unique. Keep working hard and I am sure you will accomplish your dreams! I wish you the best of luck!