A Time For Awareness...

Being a jewelry designer, I wanted to use what I do to benefit people that are in need. I've started designing various items from jewelry to key chains to cell charms.

All profits of these items that are sold are donated to the respective causes. It's my way of helping out the world. Below you will find a few of the causes I have chosen to start with:

Autism is a brain development disorder that causes repetitive and restricted behavior. It impairs social interaction and communication. Children, mostly male, develop this condition before they are three years old.

Childhood Apraxia of Speech is a motor speech disorder. For reasons not yet fully understood, children with apraxia of speech have great difficulty planning and producing the precise, highly refined and specific series of movements of the tongue, lips, jaw and palate that are necessary for intelligible speech.

Breast Cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death in the United States alone. Women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing the disease, and a 1 in 33 chance of it causing their death.

Heart Disease kills 1 person every 34 seconds in the United States alone. It is a number of abnormal conditions affecting the heart and its blood vessels. It is the number one killer in America.

You can find my growing selection of Awareness items at my Etsy shop. Show your support with style: Elite Art for the elite at heart:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5321865&section_id=5236026

I will be adding more items from time to time. If you have any special requests, I would be happy to hear them.

Thank you for reading,
Christina
CM Designs
http://www.1337art.etsy.com

Etsy Artist Feature 6: uniquecharm

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. Today I feature Leslie from Raleigh, NC. Inspiration comes easy to her, and you can see her love of creativity in her handcrafted items. Looking for a unique gift? Leslie loves the challenge of fulfilling special requests--feel free to ask her! Below you will see some of her favorite pieces:



"In the Eyes of Love"
Available at http://www.uniquecharm.etsy.com

"Diamonds are Forever"
Available at http://www.uniquecharm.etsy.com

"A Few of my Favorite Things"
Available at http://www.uniquecharm.etsy.com

Below you will find her interview:

1. What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?

Since i was in Kindergarten my favorite class was Art. I remember making these paper turtles that had cone shaped shell's & we glued the head, arms, legs, & tail on. He also got a string on the tip on his nose so we could pull them around with us all day.

2. What do you specialize in?
I specialize in polymer clay. I'm also open to customized idea's from customers. If i can visualize it, it will happen, somehow.

3. What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?

I saw that everyone was doing those little polymer clay foods. I just up & decided one day i was going to start. I went to the craft store bought what i wanted then started. I tried to get the edge & do things no one else does. I made a skittle charm, chocolate sushi, & even double chocolate tart dulce de leche cheesecake.

4. What are your hopes for the future?

For 2008 i want to make at least 150 sales. I've only been here for almost 2 months so i*m just trying to get my name out there. I*m also going to try to put together a newsletter, to feature etsy.com shops & people. Kind of a behind the shop section.

5. What are some of your favorite past times?

I love sitting on the balcony at my apartment because we've got a lake view, posted up on the rail with a cup of hot cocoa. There are geese everywhere! The scenes so beautiful. I also listen to a lot of music. I find inspiration in almost everything.

6. Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.

Messy, but kept. ;]

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I want to wish everyone featured & not the best of luck! It's hard but it's worth it to see the e-mail from paypal. Gives a certain feeling knowing someone is getting something you made from the heart expressed with your hands.

How can people get in contact with you?
My Shop is: http://www.uniquecharm.etsy.com
My Blog is: http://www.uniquecharms.blogspot.com
My e-mail address is: LesliesUniqueCharm@yahoo.com

Picture of the Artist hard at work!



Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Feel free to leave comments, as Leslie would be most appreciative of them!

Respectfully Yours,
Christina
CM Designs
http://www.1337art.etsy.com

Sale! and a new promotional site to check out!

To celebrate the New Year and also to celebrate the upcoming Day of Love, I am offering Free Shipping on my items from January 25th, 2008 - January 31st, 2008. This gives you plenty of time to receive your gifts before February 14th!

If you would like a custom order, please contact me as soon as possible so we both have ample time to work together.

And on a side note, my friend, Travis (http://www.woodcraft.etsy.com) recently started a promotional website and forum for the sole purpose of all of us Handcrafted Etsy Artists! You can find the website here:

http://www.metawebpages.com/

Because the website is in the beginning stages, all help and word-of-mouth would be appreciated! With all of your help combined, we can make Travis' website a great tool for all of us Etsy Sellers!

I also wanted to say thank you to the people who read these blog entries. It is much appreciated by all of those involved.

Happy New Year and Happy Shopping!


-
Christina
CM Designs
http://www.1337art.etsy.com

Have any requests for future Etsy Artists or jewelry pieces? Please feel free to send me an email: 1337art@gmail.com

Etsy Artist Feature 5: woodcraft

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. Today I feature Travis from Florence, Alabama. He handcrafts beautiful clocks and patterns for your mosaic projects. His clocks would make a great gift for anyone you know who collects clocks--these are unique! They are all of his own design, and below you will see his favorite pieces as of date:


South Western 3D Clock available at www.woodcraft.etsy.com


Luck of the Irish 3D Clock available at www.woodcraft.etsy.com

Below you may read Travis' interview:

1. What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?

Kindergarden I didn't want to go to first grade out of fear that I wouldn't be able to paint anymore.

2. What do you specialize in?

Wood Carving with my Dremel rotary tool mainly. I love to design stuff .

3. What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?

I thought it would be exciting to meet new people and along the way sell a few items that I make for family and friends.

4. What are your hopes for the future?

I'm really not that sure about the future. I like to take it one day at a time.

5. What are some of your favorite past times?

I like redesigning my websites whenever the mood hits me. I really like thinking of new things I can make out of wood and other materials and exploring new techniques to make new things.

6. Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.

Not big enough actually. I could use a little more space. But I'm grateful for what I have.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am really glad to have found Etsy. I was starting to think the internet was one giant blob of retail stuff until I came across Etsy.

How do you feel about custom orders?

I would welcome any custom order. That would be truly exciting!

You may contact Travis at his Etsy shop:

www.woodcraft.etsy.com

or you may email him at

contact@metawebpages.com

Thank you much for reading!

Valentine's Day Highlights

Are you looking for the perfect gift for your significant other? Are you in need of some ideas? Come take a look at what this post has to offer you! Jewelry, candles, gift sets, and more! All featured items are handcrafted-you can't get more romantic than that!

Looking for the perfect little something to hang on her rear-view mirror before she goes to work in the morning? These necklaces are just perfect for that!


"He Makes Me Blush" available at http://www.1337art.etsy.com


"Unlock My Heart" available at http://www.1337art.etsy.com

Are you planning on having a romantic evening at home? These bath and body sets are all you need for a sensual, unforgettable evening:


Bath and Beauty Vegan Gift Set available at http://www.jonikay52.etsy.com


Vegan Gift Set with Victorian Heart Soap available at http://www.jonikay52.etsy.com

Looking to enjoy a sensual and relaxing bath together? Try a mixture of these:


Roses and Chocolate Sensual Bath Salts available at http://www.gabrielsaunt.etsy.com


Sweetheart Nutmeg and Ylang Ylang 15 Hour Votive available at http://www.gabrielsaunt.etsy.com

Do you feel like spoiling her this year with a little gift here, and a little gift there? Here are a few lovely and inexpensive little gift ideas:


"Forever My Love" available at http://www.jeaneb48.etsy.com


Love's In The Air Mini Tote available at http://www.jeaneb48.etsy.com


Lovely Matchbook Notepads available at http://www.britscreativetouch.etsy.com


Love Valentine's Day Card available at http://www.britscreativetouch.etsy.com


Lavendar Heart Pendant available at http://www.popalicious.etsy.com


Chic in Black Pendant available at http://www.popalicious.etsy.com


Hearts of Whimsy Pendant available at http://www.analiese.etsy.com


Simply Red Pendant available at http://www.analiese.etsy.com

Thank you so much for viewing! Please feel free to leave comments.

Etsy Artist Feature 4: Analiese

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. Today I feature Analiese from Milford, Connecticut. She handcrafts an amazing variety of polymer clay pendants as well as jewelry.

Here you will see a few of her favorites:



Orange Owl


Surf and Sand Confetti Bracelet


Custom Photo Pendant featuring Analiese's son.

Not only does she have so many lovely designed pendants, but she offers custom photo pendants--you choose your own personal photo, and she will make it into a pendant! She also accepts your children's artwork to be made into a pendant! Talk about a great, personalized gift!

She also offers this custom service to Etsy artists--they have the opportunity to have their artwork appear as a pendant.

Below you will find Analiese's interview:

What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?

Well - I think I started crafting very young - I used to make my own Barbie clothes and make anything I could out of anything I could find - my father is very artistic - so I think I got the "art" genes from him.

What do you specialize in?

Right now - my specialty is Polymer clay pendants, however, I also make beaded and wire jewelry that are mostly shown at my craft fairs. I sell the pendants on Etsy and my other website along with a few of my finished jewelry pieces. The custom Photo pendants are very popular - especially around the holidays.

What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?

I have another website and found out about Etsy in the forums - I thought the price was reasonable and I loved the design - so I figured it could not hurt, and I am so glad I did.

What are your hopes for the future?

I am currently looking for a full time teaching job, so I will continue with my jewelry and pendants for as long as time allows. If I do get a full time job - I really hope to continue because I love making them - but it just may not be to the extent that I am doing them now.

What are some of your favorite past times?

I love going to the movies and have started to bring my son over the past few years - so he loves it as well. I love cold winters and snow and sitting in front of our fireplace. I have always loved going to arts and craft shows even before I started my own booth - I just love seeing all the talented artists out there.

Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.

Cluttered, messy, intrusive (my dining room table) :)

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I think a big key to a good business is great customer service - and I really try to be as friendly and accommodating as possible. I want my customers to be happy with the product and service - so I will continue to do whatever I can to keep up with my philosophy.

You can e-mail Analiese at anadesigns@snet.net or visit her websites

http://www.analiese.etsy.com
http://www.analiesedesigns.com

Etsy Artist Feature 3: jonikay52

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. Today I feature Joni Kay from Maine. She is an artist of many talents that include jewelry making, bath and body (candles and lotions), and fine art photography. She gladly welcomes custom orders.

Below you will find a picture of the penguin everlasting candle that I purchased for my brother for Christmas. Joni was very friendly to work with, and she made sure I received the item before Christmas. It is beautiful and cute and fun to the touch:



Following are some of Joni's favorite creations:


Moose Honey Soap


Goats Milk and Honey Creme


Heart Rose and Wire Art Jewelry Set


Lighthouse Photography


Lobster Photography

And below you will find Joni's interview:

1. What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?

As a little girl I loved doing crafts sewing clothes, home decorations, art and designing cards with my Mother and Grandmother. We're a crafty family.

2. What do you specialize in?

Jewelry, bath and candles.

3. What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?

I need a larger buyers market for my many quality products.

4. What are your hopes for the future?

More sales and happy customers buying my products at fair prices.

5. What are some of your favorite past times?

Self taught wire art jewelry designing, pottery, candle making, tole painting free hand is more creative for me, making bath and beauty products and photography. As you can see my hobbies usually turn into a business.

6. Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.

My creativity flows at the kitchen table. My favorite products are wire art jewelry, moose honey soap with pinecones, everlasting candles, prim jar candles, and the perfect goats milk and honey creme.

You may contact Joni with any questions or custom order requests through Etsy at

http://www.jonikay52.etsy.com

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Feel free to leave comments and visit the featured Etsy Artist's shops.

Etsy Artist Feature 2: stevoluvmunchkin

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. Today I feature Jessica from Orlando. She makes beautiful charms and jewelry pieces (without molds!) from clay. She happily fulfilled my request of a custom order for a lime green dragon and a panda drinking a strawberry smoothie! She's very creative and she is skilled at what she does--don't be afraid to ask her for a special request!







Below you can read the artist's interview:

1. What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?
I first started making charms about two years ago. I needed some jewelry for my cosplay but it was really expensive so I decided to try and make it myself.

2. What do you specialize in?
I specialize in making clay charms. I make necklaces, earrings, key chains, cell phone straps, hair accessories, and more.

3. What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?
I was selling some of my charms on Deviantart but I wanted to try and sell more but ebay takes so much of your money so I started looking for an alternative and thats when I found Etsy!

4. What are your hopes for the future?
I hope to keep making and selling lots of charms. I hope to get more commissions, they are my favorite! People request things that I would have never even though of.=]

5. What are some of your favorite past times?
Making charms of course, Cosplaying and attending conventions, watching anime, reading manga, and spending time with family and friends.

6. Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.
I work on a small wooden table with drawers underneath that I keep all my paint, tools, and jewelry finding in. I have a small silver lamp on my table to help me see and two storage containers full of beads.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
My hands are my greatest tool. I never use molds to make my charms.

How can people get in contact with you?
They can send me a note on my deviantart page: http://stevoluvmunchkin.deviantart.com/

Or email me at sweetkiss87@msn.com

Jessica's Etsy Page: Chibis Charms

Picture of stevoluvmunchkin:

Etsy Artist Feature: Jeaneb48

It is important to show the world the charms of handcrafted items, and I plan to do this one Etsy artist at a time. I chose to feature Jeane first because she was one of the first Etsy Artists I have purchased items from (on more than one occasion).

She resides in the state of Illinois offering a variety of handcrafted goods. She loves to accomodate custom orders to help people receive exactly what they are looking for. I've personally asked her to make me a couple of mini tote bags to use for Christmas gifts. She happily did so. You will find some images of her lovely creations below:

Her words of advice:

I am my worst critic as most crafters are I think, but never get discouraged, just try a little harder next time to make it perfect.

Below you will find some interview questions Jeane kindly answered for me:

1. What is the first memory of crafting that you can recall?

I remember my very first project at about age 13, was a pair of flannel tiger pajamas for my nephew that even included the tail that was not part of the pattern, it was an add-on of my own creation. That was the start of my obsession.

2. What do you specialize in?

I guess if I specialized in anything it would be simple fabric quilts and crochet afghans, when I make one of those there is a family member that snatches it right away, they are usually created with a special personality behind it.

3. What made you decide to open up a shop on Etsy?

I have crafted for many years, I did the craft show and flea markets for a few years, but due to a health disability it became to difficult to take my craft outside the home. My niece introduced me to Etsy and it is a wonderful way to continue to do what I love in the comfort and convenience of my home.

4. What are your hopes for the future?

My hopes for the future would be a continued slow progression for my disability so I can enjoy and share all aspects of life with my family especially my grandchildren.

5. What are some of your favorite past times?

Favorite pastimes..wow..besides crafts, I love reading, my favorite authors has to be Stephen King and Dean Koontz, sometimes I cheat and get audio books and listen while I craft. Country music and old movies, the 2 box kleenex type, and cooking, the kitchen is my second favorite place to be in.

6. Try to sum up your workspace in as few words as possible.

My workspace is cramped but cozy, cluttered but a neat clutter. Quiet and relaxing, my first favorite place to be in.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Not a lot to me, I'm just a simple little grandma that adores my grandkids and likes to keep the hands and fingers working.

You may contact Jeane through Etsy @ http://www.jeaneb48.etsy.com or at her flickr account:

http://flickr.com/photos/mamajeansfamily/sets/72157603595824878/

or you may email her at jeaneb48@yahoo.com.

Custom Design

My name is Christina, and I make jewelry.

I've tired of the mass-produced jewelry items I find in stores. After giving up on finding something of both quality and style, I resorted to making jewelry for myself. It all started with a beautiful crystal cuplink chain that I needed to pursue. I also craft bookmarks, key chains, cellphone charms as well as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets, and watches.

I welcome special requests and custom orders. I can do men's jewelry and accessories as well.

1337 Art is about affordable quality items that compliments a person's personal style. The name "1337" is a modern play on the word "elite." The name 1337 Art is meant to demonstrate that a piece of jewelry is not just a piece of jewelry; it's a work of art.

__Custom Design

Each person has their own personal style—their own tastes and preferences. I want to help you express yourself through jewelry and accessories that are both affordable and quality-made.

Do you own a necklace and bracelet but would like to also own a matching pair of earrings? I can help you complete your set.

Do you have a specific theme in mind for yourself or a friend, but you are tired of shopping around unable to find what you are looking for? Do you want to surprise your mother with a pair of earrings, but you don't know where to start? I can help.

Please contact me if you are interested in a custom piece. If you do not like the finished piece, you are under no obligation to keep it. I want you to be completely happy with your purchase.

I use a variety of materials ranging from shell, crystal, and glass, to gemstone, sterling silver, and pewter. I design in a variety of styles: chain, retro, modern, vintage, elegant, masculine, casual, goth, cutesy...please visit my Deviant Art account for a sample of my different styles:

1337-Art @ Deviant Art

If there is something that you are looking for that you do not see here, please let me know! I appreciate ideas and suggestions for new products!