Bonnie Bear "Star of the Day"

Name: Bonnie Johnson
Company: BonnieBear Crafts: Handmade with Love
State: Delaware

Featured Product: Sedona Felted Art Purse

Description: Have you ever seen the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona? They are beautiful against the crisp blue sky. This purse was created in Sedona after buying yarn from the local yarn shop, Red Rock Knit Shop!The purse is hand knitted then felted. Each purse I create is unique and one of a kind. Why buy something that is massed produced when you could have something that no one else in the world owns? This purse is very lightweight and unlined. It measures 8 x 8 inches, with a shoulder strap. The purse can be machine washed in cool water and air-dried
What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
I would like to be known as someone who makes unique, quality gifts that are handmade with love.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?
I have always been a very creative person and this allows me to exercise that creativity, have fun and reconnect with my inner child!

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
I would never be at a loss to fill up my day with happy diversions. Some of those diversions would be playing with my grandsons, knitting a warm afternoon away while sitting in my gazebo and reading a good book.

What are your favorite designs/creations?
My favorite creations are my collectable art bears. I will never tire of finding special yarns that just yearn to make into a lovable bear. My favorite designs can be found in my knitted purses. I am constantly creating different patterns, using different colorways and trying to use up my stash.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?
My shops can be found on artfire and etsy.

www.bonniebear.etsy.com
http://www.bonniebear.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
I mail their package off by the next business day and include a free gift with each purchase. I also want my customers to be 100% happy with their purchase. When I do custom orders, I submit them first on artfire or etsy so they can have a chance to preview before committing to a purchase.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
I would love to have more time to spend creating and designing my felted purses. I just can’t seem to knit as fast as I create which can be frustrating. I am always interested in exploring different crafts and learning different skills. I also hope that in the near future I will have enough time to actually teach classes on knitting and crocheting.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
Never ever stop playing! I will never apologize for the time I spend creating, playing, knitting, and painting. It is absolutely crucial in helping me to keep centered and balanced in these turbulent times. I try and carve out time every day to just be with me and play!
You may use any of the pictures.

She's Batty Designs

Name: Jamie

Company: She\'s Batty Designs

State/Location: London, Ontario, Canada

Featured Product: Custom Wedding Invitation

Description: offer custom wedding invitations to help bring your personal style to your wedding invitations! Custom wedding invitations are a great way to show off your unique, stylish and creative personality, and best of all, I'll do all the work for you! All you have to do is let me know what theme you are looking for.I can make you the exact designs that is pictured above or I can make you something totally different to fit in seamlessly with your personal wedding style! Please make a note during check out as to whether you'd like the design pictured above, or something else.Note: The names on the invitation pictured above have been blurred out due to privacy reasons; sorry for any distraction this may cause.

1) What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

Of course :) I\'ve moved from \"artist\" to more of a \"crafter\" because I find the \"craft\" world a lot more welcoming. While studying Fine Arts, I found that when you\'re labeled as an \"artist\" you have to constantly justify yourself and your art. When it comes to crafts, people are a lot more light hearted about their works and the community surrounding their works and interests. This is a lot more appealing to me.

2) What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Besides what I\'ve mentioned above, being creative is a force that has always driven me. I can\'t go for too long without being creative. It relaxes me. I start to get anxious if it\'s been too long since I\'ve done something creative. I also LOVE holidays (Halloween being my favourite) and being crafty fits perfectly with holiday celebrations. I\'m also inspired by autumn colours, darker arts, and sometimes, just by anything cute! What motivates me one day can be the total opposite of what motivates me the next.

3) Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

Well, today is Saturday and I don\'t have to work so I slept in. That was a good start! If we are imagining a perfect day I would be with my man, be pain free (I have ankylosing spondylitis), my dogs would get to go to the dog park and run around, there would be twice as many hours in the day, I would sculpt a HUGE creepy scarecrow in the autumn sun, then play around with some clay, and later play with paper! We would finish the day off by cuddling (with my man and all the dogs) on the couch while watching a NEW tim burton film. Oh, while eating fresh berries :)

4) What are your favorite designs/creations?

Anything Halloween or Autumn.

5) Where can they see your crafts and designs? Flickr, Art Fire, Etsy, or my Blog. http://www.flickr.com/photos/25939453@N08/ http://shesbattydesigns.artfire.com/

http://shesbattydesigns.etsy.com/

http://shesbattydesigns.blogspot.com/

6) What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I always make sure I know EXACTLY what people want when doing a custom order. Thanking buyers is also huge and ensuring you go the extra mile with every step of the buying process.. go ABOVE what YOU would expect from a buyer.

7) What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I hope that I can devote more time to it in the future. For this to happen it would have to bring in at least a part time income. This would be an amazing goal for me to meet if I could only work part time out side of the home. Thankfully I have a full time job that I LOVE - I work at an animal shelter. If I am unable to continue at the animal shelter in the future than I would only want to work part time outside of the home and spend the rest of the time at my studio :) Ultimately, my hopes are to continue to love crafting and to continue to get great joy from it.

8) Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Take the time each day to do something creative. Being creative daily helps challenge your skills and keep your works fresh.

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Jamie: Sure! :)

paperfruithair "Star of the Day"

Name: Melissa Reynolds

Company: paperfruithair

State/Location: London, Ontario

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I was always the weird kid, which made it harder to fit into the premade social forms of high school. Then with time I learned to love being the oddball. I stopped trying to make PRETTY things and now aim for DIFFERENT, because it's more fun to be the quirky crafter than the solemn artist.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

It's a compulsion. I HAVE to make things. Having A.D.D. helps, because everything I see or read or hear gets churned through my head until it's been warped into a new idea. You should see my little "To Make" notebook, I've barely made a dent in it.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I'd go back home to Florida and chase the sun: wake up before dawn on the east coast and watch the sun rise over the Atlantic, then make my way slowly across the state (maybe eating at Denny's and shopping at Target, I miss both very much) until it's time for the sun to set over the Gulf of Mexico. I spent my entire 30 years there and never once did it.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

Out of my own creations, probably my dollhouse food. I've adored making miniatures since I was a little girl with my Play-Doh. Of all the other designs and creations out there, I love the macabre the most. I have a great respect for anyone with a dark sense of humour who doesn't take him-or-herself too seriously.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

I've been at etsy for a while: http://paperfruithair.etsy.com/;

I've recently joined artfire: http://paperfruithair.artfire.com/;

and I've got a makeshift portfolio at flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/paperfruithair/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

Anyone who buys from me get access to a good listener with an obsession for detail and a touch of OCD. Special orders receive lots of communication and all other stock is described in as much detail as possible. If you should be displeased for any reason, I'll work with you until you're happy again.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

My hope is to sell you something that makes your friends ask "Ooh, where did you get that from??" Ideally, you'll then tell them how to find me. ;)

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Do it for the love of getting your hands dirty.

ArtsyClay

Name: Judy Tanner

Company: ArtsyClay

State/Location: North Carolina

Featured Product: Whimsical Mushroom House Pin ( Brooch )

Description: The little elves who live in the woods have made their home in a red and pink-spotted mushroom nestled among vines and leaves. Add a fun touch to your outfit with this adorable house pin, handmade of polymer clay. Colors include dark red, a hand-mixed shade of pink, brown, off-white and green.

1) What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I\'d like to be known as a polymer clay artist who makes unique whimsical creations.

2) What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Anything that touches my heart and makes me go oooo. It might be a beautiful tree or leaf or flower in the woods when I\'m out for a walk or a sunset or an intriguing cloud shape in the sky ... hearing soft soothing music ... seeing an outstanding color combination that someone is wearing ... or something sweet like a cute kitty or dog.

3) Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

As I start every day, I would first give thanks to God for a new day of life and then do some yoga and of course have some breakfast. Then I\'d get to work! I\'d put on some favorite music and spend some time playing with blocks of polymer clay ... mixing colors and rolling the pieces through the pasta maker ... and seeing what happens. Then I might sketch some ideas and make them out of clay. I might look through a magazine or online for pictures and colors that inspire me, and make something else or add the pictures to my ideas notebook. At some point, I\'d take a break and go out for a walk and come back carrying a leaf or a rock, and seeing what that leads to ... a leaf shape or something abstract that might be the colors in the leaf or in the rock. In a \"real\" day I have to do laundry, clean the house, take care of my family, etc. so it\'s fun to think of the luxury of a whole day of just playing with my clay.

4) What are your favorite designs/creations?

Ones that I enjoy making over and over with new details are faces, nature (leaves, trees, birds, animals), hearts, suns, moons, houses, music and abstract contemporary designs.

5) Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://artsyclay.artfire.com/

http://artsyclay.etsy.com/

6) What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I do my best to to treat each customer as I would like to be treated. So that means I * answer emails as soon as possible * mail out orders the next business day after the payment has cleared (for items already in stock) * send a notification email thanking my customer and letting them know when I have shipped their item * and if someone requests a custom order, I communicate carefully with them every step of the way.

7) What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I\'ve been \"claying\" since 1997 and still have some of the first items I made, and can certainly see that I\'ve improved, so I hope to continue to improve and evolve in my artistic abilities, to keep experimenting with various techniques and new designs, and to continue to grow my business to be more successful - online, at craft shows and in local galleries.

8) Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Do what you love! I think the most important thing is to enjoy what we do. I have learned the importance of taking a break now and then to replenish my spirit. Otherwise, nothing turns out well.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Judy (ArtsyClay)

Willow Walker

Name: Pamela Prichard, WillowWalker

Company: WillowWalker Designs

State/Location: Oregon

Featured Product: CORAL DICHROIC PENDANT

Description: A rich bronze colored, coral shaped, dichroic fused glass pendant with copper, gold, green and blue fires. Finished with a handcrafted 14k gold filled wire bail. Approximately 47mm by 34mm, 1 7/8" by 1 3/8" including the bail.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I would love to be known for my dichroic fused glass and wire wrapped jewelry.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

First of all I have to create. I love color, beautiful things and jewelry.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

Creating something to put in the kiln or a new piece of wire wrapped jewelry.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

Right now I am really pleased with my new earrings. My favorites are Jewels of the Autumn Goddess, Zephyr's Blue Brooch and Ruby & Gold Fantasy.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://WillowWalkerDesigns.artfire.com

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

A beautiful, quality, handcrafted piece of jewelry that is promptly shipped.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I would someday love to have an excellant reputation for my jewelry and business and have it be self-supporting.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Be patient, keep up in your field and be true to yourself.

Kraftouch: Can I use a photo of your product?

WillowWalkerDesigns: You are welcome to choose pictures from my website or I will e-mail them to you. Your choice.

Lillies "Star of the Day"

Name: Kim /lillies2009

Company: Lillies

State/Location: Swindon, Wiltshire, UK

Featured Product: SPRING FEST COLLECTION 1

Description: This is a stunning necklace, with matching bracelet and earrings, with beautiful spring colours! The Necklace is made from gorgeous green freshwater pearls, AB grade rose quartz, AA Grade cherry quartz and white jade. Finished with four beautiful purple filmo clay flowers, and sterling silver beads. The Bracelet, with matching colour scheme of the necklace, is made from AA grade cherry quartz, Green freshwater pearls and two beautiful purple filmo clay flowers, The earrings are matching purple filmo clay flowers. S shape 925 sterling silver clasps on both the necklace and bracelet.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I think for me, i would like to be known artisan, for making pretty good quality products that will last.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I have many motives, but originally. like so many artisans it started out as a hobby. With three children, i felt i needed an outlet that was for me alone, plus, it halped me regain some sanity!I love creating pretty and differnt things, that, now is my main motive.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I would leave the kids with my husband, lock myself in a room, with a coffee maker, kettle, milk, teabags and cup and i would experiment with beads, threads and silver until my heart is content and i feel relaxed enough to face the world!I forgot to say, i would HAVE to have some music!

What are your favorite designs/creations?

My favourite designs of my own, are the spring fest collection, with these i just started and let my mind and hands create.There are so many designs and creations made by very talented people that i love. A silver jewellery maker, barbara parker, who taught me in silver art clay makes some gorgeous items.With this question the list could go on, but poeple are free to contact me if they want to know more.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

You can find my items at either

www.lillies.artfire.com

www.lillies.etsy.com

which at present holds several more items than my artfire shop.

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I promise to sort out any problems to the cutomers satisfaction, if they are unhappy with the product, once received, I will offer a substitute, or refund on receiving the returned item. I always try to be polite, and listen to my customers needs. On custom orders, i will quote, the customer before an order is placed, and keep in regular contact with the customer.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I hope that, at some point there will be peolpe around the world wearing something I have designed and created. My desires are to be successful and retain good customer satisfaction, to the best of my abilities.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

It can be very hard and very slow going, but if you believe that you have a talent use it, be consistant and never give up!

Many thankskim / lillies

Hdawnparrat

Name: Heather

Company: Heather's Handmade Cards

Location: Alberta,Canada

Featured Work: HAPPY MOTHER''S DAY BIRD CARD

Description: Here is a very pretty mother's day card. Pretty springlike and bright colors. This card is blank inside but if you would like something stamped on the inside let me know with note to seller with payment. Thanks for looking. Comes with a white envelope

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
I would like to be known as a scrapbooker/paper crafter.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I get motivated mostly to make handmade greeting cards. I was a avid scrapbooker who loved to scrapbookin my wedding,pets,family. When I ran out of pictures to scrapbook, I turned to card making and was instantly addicted. I enjoy the feedback I get from the people who purchase my cards or those who receive them.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
Usually when I'm not working I can be found in my scrapbooking room making a greeting card for a family member or my online shop, or an order I have received. That is my most favorite thing to do.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

My favorite designs or creations are basic greeting cards. I also make paper bag albums but find them so time consuming that to do them I really have to be in the right mood. Cards I just find come more naturally to me and if my cards can make someone smile it pushes me on to continue to make them.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

I have two online shops. One is on artfire, and the other shop is on etsy. I joined etsy in march of 2008 and loved it so much it prompted me to open another shop on artfire. I also have a blog where I write about my projects and enjoy the comments and feedback I get there as well.

www.hdawnparratt.etsy.com

www.hdawnparratt.artfire.com

www.heather-cardcreations.blogspot.com

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

The best customer service I can offer is putting smiles on the faces of people who receive my cards and projects. I love what I do very much and strive to make sure every sale is a happy one. So far I have had only postive feedback and hope it will only continue to flourish and grow.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

My hopes and desires are simple, to have people enjoy my cards, and if they are happy to have them return to my shop again and again. I hope as time grows my shops grow and my client list grows. Making people happy makes me happy, I hope I can continue to do this for a long time to come :)

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

If I had to share a message to other crafters / artisans I would say just have fun and don't put too much pressure on yourself. Some artists do better then others with sales, there are lots of trials and errors, if you have fun with it and enjoy what you do to me that is the best gift you could give yourself. hdawnparratt@hotmail.comhttp://www.hdawnparratt.etsy.com/http://www.hdawnparratt.artfire.com/http://www.heather-cardcreations.blogspot.com/

Kraftouch: I would like to ask permission to use a photo of your work.

Hdawnparratt: I would be more than happy for you to use any pictures of my work for your feature, which ever card or project you choose is ok with me :) Thanks again so much. It is really appreciated :)

Lil Cubby "Star of the Day"

Name: Sara & Mary Ayres

Company: Lil Cubby

State: Currently we are working out of two states. Mary creates all of the handmade items and ships them from her home in Virginia. Sara handles the website and finacial aspect from Florida. We hope to have a studio in the same state in the near future.

Featured Product:MONKEY BOOTIES W/ RED AND WHITE RIBBON TIES

Description: These booties are very soft and sweet! The wool felt on the inside makes them more like a soft shoe than a bootie. They keep their shape very well. They have brown cotton fabric on the outside and brown wool felt on the inside. Monkey face and ears are appliqued on the front of the booties. Eyes and mouth are hand embroidered. Fabric is fused to felt, the shapes are cut, and then booties are stitched together.Booties are tied with red/white dot grosgrain ribbon.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I would like to be known for my close attention to details in all aspects of our business. I pay close attention to color selection of fabrics and perfecting the details of the designs. When I am creating a new sewing pattern, I try to make the steps as simple as possible so that even beginner sewers can follow the instructions easily.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I really enjoy the process of creating new things, from the idea to the finished item. Most of our items are purchased for special occasions such as birthdays and new babies. We enjoy being a part of these occasions and being rewarded by the nice feedback from our customers.3) Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today? I would spend the day in my craft room designing a new sewing pattern.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

We love our baby booties. They have added so much to our collection and can be made with a variety of fabrics. Our birthday shirts are another favorite. We can personalize them to coordinate with many birthday themes.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://www.lilcubby.etsy.com/

http://www.lilcubby.com/

http://www.lilcubby.artfire.com/

http://www.preciouspatterns.etsy.com/

http://www.preciouspatterns.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
We really pride ourselves in our customer service. We like to get to know our customers and provide them with great communication throughout the entire process. We make sure we have a good understanding of the customers wishes, so that we can provide them with a beautiful finished product.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

We hope to be able to build a studio and work together within the next few years. We also hope to expand our line of sewing patterns in our preciouspatterns shop. We really love our businesses and only wish to be able to continue sharing our talents with others.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

If you truly enjoy your craft, take chances and share your work with others. Success doesn't happen over night. Be patient, learn from your mistakes, and stick with it. It will be rewarding in the end.

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Lil Cubby: Feel free to use any pictures from our sites. Just let us know if you need any further information. Thanks so much for featuring us! Sara & Mary Ayres

I'm Not Spoiled Designs " Star of the Day"

Name: Rochelle

Company: I'm Not spoiled Designs

State:Nevada

Featured Product: ASIAN INFLUENCE INFANT/TODDLER FITTED HAT

Product description:This hat was definately created for the child with style, it is the perfect all weather hat. made with designer 100% cotton fabric,lined with interfacing.Seams are seged for a finished look.These fitted hats are made to order for infants - toddler head size up to 20 inches (when measuring your childs head make sure to give an inch or two allowance for comfort)

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I know some consider "crafter" a bad word, but I completely consider myself a crafter. I love to work with many different mediums, I love to be versitle with my creativity.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

My child completely inspires my crafting, I don't think that I would enjoy making accessories for kids as much if I did not have her spunky attitude around. I am also motivated by my craft studio (since I can see the floor now) I love color and all of the fabrics in my studio keep me creating.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

It is such a nice day out today, I will Take my daughter out to ride her bike, and then crafting .... it is not a full day with out some kind of craft. BUT...if I could I would love to take my daughter to the beach in California...and heck,since we are doing whatever we want, why not a trip to Disneyland.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

My favorite creations, are the ones that I have to wok to and re-work until I get a finished product I like. The canvas frames I now LOVE to make have had many "practice" runs.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

you can find my crafts @

my website

http://www.imnotspoileddesigns.com/

http://www.imnotspoileddesigns.artfire.com/

my ETSY site

http://www.imnotspoileddesigns.etsy.com/

I also post pictures of work in progress on my blog http://confessionsofasincitycraftaddict.blogspot.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

Always give people more than they expect, it does not have to be something big, a thank you tag in the package, a coupon for the next purchase. Customer service does not end when the package is sent. It means a lot to take that extra step, I bought something on ETSY once and the seller e-mailed me after I got the package to thank me for the puchase. It really made an impression.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I really want to own a shop one day to sell my crafts, I love doing craft shows,but a permanent location would be ideal. it is a lot of working setting up and tearing down show displays.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Keep it fresh and new! I really try to change up my inventory every year, it does not have to be anything big, just a new twist on something you already do. I love making stacking (shelf sitter) blocks,but I change my tecnique every year, so the people who bought them last year will still want to buy the same thing this year with the new twist.

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Imnotspoiled: Yes, definitely

Tropical Crush "Star of the Day"

Name: Leslee Giovale
Company: Tropical Crush
State: Kailua, Hawaii

Featured Product: ELEGANT TAPESTRY BAG

Description: This bag is a great size for everyday.Holds all you need, a magazine fits inside with plenty of room for all of your other goodies.It is fully lined with one inside pocket.Made with high quality tapestry recycled from scrap fabric.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

Fun, up-lifting, fresh and colorful bags, jewelry and pottery. Most people remember me for the colors I use, I love color!

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

All of the fantastic colorful parts of nature that surround me. I am lucky enough to live in Hawaii and have an amazing view of the mountains on one side and Kailua beach on the other. I am able to work at home and do what I love full time so I stay creative most of the time. As long as I can do different things, I stay inspired and not get bored.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

Anything?! O.K. I would go sky diving on the north shore early in the morning, horseback riding from the mountains to the beach in the afternoon and then to the spa for a 2 hour massage, haircut, mani/pedi and finally down to a torch lit beach for a fresh seafood dinner with a few friends.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

Oh my! I have such a diverse appreciation of what the human mind can create. I guess I like things that are colorful, fun and joyful while being natural. Pottery has always been a love of mine since I was very young.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

Hawaii State Art Museum, Nohea Galleries in Kailua, Waikiki and Ward, Pacific Gateway Center downtown Honolulu and on

http://www.tropicalcrush.artfire.com/

www.tropicalcrush.com

http://www.shophandmade.com/Store/Tropicalcrush
http://en.dawanda.com/shop/tropicalcrush
http://www.artistful.com/leslee6_gallery
http://en.dawanda.com/shop/KawaiiKawaii


What’s the best customer service you can offer?
I take custom orders for bags and jewelry, ship items that are packaged well, I also gift wrap for free for anyone interested.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
I would love to be able to continue in the business for the rest of my life, I will never stop creating things.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
Never let anyone tell you can't do anything! Always give your very best and you will never regret it.
Many artists are discouraged from creative lives by others, it is very sad to know what you love and are great at went by the wayside.

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Tropicalcrush: Sure!

Artwork by KD "Star of the Day"

Name: Kathy DellaValle

Company: Artwork by KD

State: Pennsylvania

Featured Product: RECYCLED BEER CAN EARRINGS

Description: Ultra-FunKy earrings hand-cut out of recycled aluminum beer cans!Feather light.Not sharp.Hand made sterling silver filled ear wire!

***Made to order, your earrings will be similar to this pair.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan? -

Artisan

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting? -

Color, texture and shapes are big inspirations to me. Another inspiration is trying to reuse containers/bottles to save them from getting the heave-ho!

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today? -

I would be at my desk making tons of new, funky pieces out of recycled materials and also I would be overwhelmed with orders :-) (First part is a typical day)

What are your favorite designs/creations? -

Anything with rich, bold color. Simple designs/shapes go a long way with a pop of color.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://www.artworkbykd.etsy.com/ -

http://www.artworkbykd.artfire.com/ -

http://www.kevinandkathy.com/ -

http://artworkbykd.blogspot.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer? -

Fast, friendly responses, fast shipping, fun to receive and open (handmade) packaging, an original, beautiful handmade product, coupons for the future, affordable prices, helping to reduce waste with every purchase...am I missing anything?

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I hope to develop a great customer base and have lots and lots of steady sales/orders. I'd also like to be at many stores all over the country and world! I'm also a musician (http://www.kevinandkathy.com/), so I'd also like for my music business to grow along with my art!

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

The 3 'P's you need to have every single day: Persistence! Patience! And Passion! Don't wait for sales and customers to find you, go out and find them! Love your work, wear your products, give them out as gifts/promos, always carry business cards, etc. Do lots of arts/crafts shows around your area and take advantage of all the free online promoting. And ask questions! Ask other successful business people about what they do and how they do it.

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

KD: Absolutely!

Painting Paradise "Star of the Day"

Name: Marionette

Company: Painting Paradise

State: Kauai

Featured Product: RHYTHM OF THE HULA 8X10 PRINT

Description: Set against a colorful background of red ti leaves, banana plant leaves, and blue skies, we can almost hear the beat of the ipu heke’ola as the beautiful hula dancer keeps the rhythm of the hula throughout her performance. She gracefully sways from side to side.

Aloha from Kauai, Marionette

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I would like to be known for creating and teaching art about the island of Kauai and all of it's beauty. When someone views my art, I want them to be reminded of a tropical paradise that takes them away from their day-to-day worries.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Creating art is such a part of me that I gave up a job as a chemist to move to Kauai and teach/create art full time. I truly love what I am doing now and feel extremely blessed. My inspiration to paint comes from the tropical flowers, ocean, mountains, and other things that are unique to Kauai.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I would most likely take a "relaxation" day and go to the beach!

What are your favorite designs/creations?

I love my new watercolors with pen and ink that depict some of the old plantation cottages from the sugar cane era.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://www.kauai-artist.net/

http://www.kauai-artist.blogspot.com/

http://www.kauaiartist.etsy.com/
www.cafepress.com/KauaiArt

http://marionette-taboniar.fineartamerica.com/

http://www.kauaiartist.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

When someone commissions me to do a painting for them, I offer a money back guarantee. I want my customers to be happy.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I want to keep teaching classes at my studio (watercolor, acrylics, pastels, silk painting, scratchboard, and sumi-e) because I really enjoy teaching people how to create something beautiful. I also hope to write an art instruction book someday. I will also keep learning and creating new works of art that bring joy into people's lives.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Create from the heart and keep practicing your art/craft. Practice really does make perfect, and we can keep learning new techniques throughout our whole lives. Follow your dream!

Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Marionette: Yes! Mahalo Nui Loa for this article!

Aloha, Marionette

Simple Arts Planet by Lis C. "Star of the Day"

Name: Lis C.
Company: Simple Arts Planet (saplanet)
Brand name: saplanet originals
State: Singapore
Featured Product:SAPLANET AMIGURUMI PATTERN - FAIRY TALE RED RIDING HOOD AND THE BIG BAD WOLF

Description: This is an ideal teaching material for kids, since there are no beads (apart from the optional choker that Wolfie wears) or detachable parts used in this set of dolls, they are pretty safe for young children.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
A crafter who strives to constantly renew and improve her designs, and crafting skills.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?
With my counseling background, emotions are almost like my best friends, and any emotion could be my inspiration for new designs. The delicate process in crochet crafts is probably what keeps my passion burning for this business. A process that allows thoughts to flow even in the midst of crafting.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
I would be drafting sketches of new ideas and eager to see the ideas materialize, and the eagerness will quickly land me in balls of yarns and crocheting up new designs. When the night moves in, I would love to start reading the 6 new Jane Austen’s novels that I just picked up at the bookstore.

What are your favorite designs/creations?
This is difficult, every doll that I designed holds a special place in me, and each takes an unique characteristics. If I have to pick, I can only attempt to select from my favorite series, which would be the people series.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?
My crafts are sold in various online venues, including my own web store.
saplanet originals webstore:
http://www.simpleartsplanet.com/
etsy store:
http://www.saplanet.etsy.com/
dawanda store:
http://en.dawanda.com/shop/simpleartsplanet
artfire store:
http://saplanet.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
Since I sell the patterns for my designs, I provide free pattern, and free crochet basics which are available for download. I know how a doll can be so special for each of us, therefore I also offer color customization service at no additional charge.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
It would be wonderful if I could continue with this business for as long as I could. I firmly believe that there is always room to improve and progress, and only when we constantly attempt to improve on our designs and skills, may we continue to receive agreeable support from our buyers. I would also hope to participate in craft shows in the near future.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
A friend just shared this with me, and I thought it would benefit anyone who strives to continuously improve in whatever they do.
“As long as we believe we are amateur, we can grow more competent.
The moment we think we are Master; there is no more progress or learning.”


Kraftouch: Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?

Saplanet: Sure, I have attached a photo for your use; this photo is recently taken after I completed a bulk order. The photo received many kind compliments in flickr. Alternatively, if you wish, you may grab any photos in my flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/simpleartsplanet/ or just off the store front. (Any)

Clay Dreams "Star of the Day"

Company: Clay Dreams
State: Virginia

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
My greatest joy is creating interesting pieces from polymer clay; I enjoy learning new ways to create one of kind pieces that spark conversation. Each piece of my work is unique and sculpted with great attention to detail. Working with each client to design and make a piece that fits their particular need gives me satisfaction as an artist.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?
I'm not really an office kind of person. Having the freedom to express myself in my own time and space motivates me to create beautiful pieces.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
Sitting on my back porch, looking at interesting things in my yard and sketching ideas for new pieces.

What are your favorite designs/creations?
My favorite creation would be one that has exceeded the expectations of my client. I created a snake, rising up a tree once that totally amazed me and the client when it was finished. When the client asked for a snake, I thought to myself, "OH BOY", I don't even like snakes, then with clay in hand, my creative side took over. This was perhaps the most beautiful piece of work I have created thus far.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?
I currently have shops open at
http://www.claydreams01.etsy.com/
http://www.claydreams.artfire.com/
I also participate in craft/artfair events locally in Virginia and from time to time in Ohio.

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
Listening to what a client wants, designing that piece to specifications adding my own unique touches to it and delivering the piece ahead of schedule.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
At some point, I would love to be able to support myself from my work. There would be nothing better than to be able to do my craft full-time.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
Follow your dreams, where ever they may lead you.

http://claydreams.artfire.com/

Kraftouch:Can I use picture of your work to post in my blog as part of your featured interview?
Clay Dreams: Yes, I sent in an attachment a photo of one or two pieces. You can choose which piece you would like to use.

Nicki Leigh Bath & Body " Star of the Day"

Name: Nicole Thomas
Company: Nicki Leigh Bath & Body
State/Location: Chalfont PA

Featured Product: GREEN TEA AND CUCUMBER BODY BALM (VEGAN FRIENDLY)

Description: Refreshingly warm green tea combined with cool cut cucumbers; a sublime treat for the senses. Made with top notch ingredients that include jojoba and avocado oil, this is what your dry skin has been crying out for! Breathe life back into your with this conveniently sized, 1.3 ounce body balm.Each of our body balms are made from scratch using natural butters and oils that are formulated to moisturize and combat dry skin conditions such as eczema..Remedy these pains and your dry skin by keeping it moisturized! This luxurious solid lotion soothes and protects dry skin all day long; even through hand washing! Just a single application lasts a full 24 hours!

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
I would like to be known for creating quality and safe products for those who may have sensitive skin conditions.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?
In all honesty? Nature. I know it may sound so cliche, but I get my best ideas when I am outside hiking.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
This one is a very hard choice. I would likely spend it with my fiance and have a nice long walk. That is what we did this past Saturday and I am aching for the weekend.

What are your favorite designs/creations?
Currently my favorite products to make have got to be my lip balms and body balms.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

I have to shops, one on etsy and one on artfire. They are:

http://www.nickileigh.etsy.com/

http://www.nickileigh.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
The best customer service I can offer is swift shipping as well as a quick response to all forms of contact. I also send a thank you convo or e-mail to my customers after a purchase has been made. I have also worked with a few past customers on custom orders where we bounced ideas back and forth until the customer got something they enjoyed.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
My craft is my home business. I would like to be able to use it to support myself and my family. However, I do not want to get so large that my customers will just become numbers. I love knowing who my customers are. I have also checked in on some past customers asking them how their son, daughter or dog is. I have made quite a few new friends this way. To me, that is most important.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
Before I went into this business I did a lot of research. I read up on permits I would need. I paid for my business insurance and I tested and retested my product for months before even offering it to the public. As exciting as it can be to start a new craft and wanting to sell right from the get-go, take some time to get comfortable with it. Do not jump in too soon until you are certain that you are selling your best product. It is so important for you to be proud of your designs and to back it up honestly. Never lie to a potential customer just to get a sale. It is so much easier to tell the truth ;)

Paradise Potpourri " Star of the Day"

Name: (whew! an easy one!) Jana
Company: Paradise Potpourri
State: Arizona

Featured Product: LAVENDER GIFT SET IN REUSABLE TIN LOVE BASKET BOX
Description: A wonderful gift for someone you love!This set contains a bag of our Stress Relief Bath Tea and a small size sachet of Healing Lavender Paradise Potpourri. They are neatly tucked into a cute little tin box with a handle, and the word "love" cut out on each side. This box can be reused later as a tea light candle holder, candy box, or just about anything!

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
Crafter or Artisan - Either one is fine!

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?
Motivation: Color and Scent. Colors help to calm and relax us, or lift the spirits! The right aroma can create powerful emotions, and can make a wonderful difference by calming us on a stressful day. It's amazing how a particular scent can even bring back long forgotten memories! I love using aromatherapy, and I truly believe that using the healing properties of herbs and flowers is far superior to all of the artificial ingredients out there!

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?
If it's sunny and not too hot I would spend it outside, gardening with my kids would be wonderful! If it's raining, give me a Jane Austen book and a cup of coffee or tea and I'm a happy camper. Oh, and either way, chocolate please!!

What are your favorite designs/creations?

Every time I make something new, it's my favorite...it's hard to choose when you put so much of your time and effort into all of them! At the moment, my body scrubs are a big favorite, I feel so decadent using them!

Where can they see your crafts and designs?
Artfire:
http://www.paradisepotpourri.artfire.com/
Etsy:
http://www.paradisepotpourri.etsy.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
I believe communication is very important! If there is a problem and someone can't send their payment right away, I am happy to work with them. If I have a short supply and there will be a delay on my part in sending out an order, I will let the buyer know right away. I recently sent several samples of scents to someone who wanted me to create a custom potpourri and they didn't know what my scents were like. Our cyber world is far too sterile sometimes, so I try to add a personal touch where I can!

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
My hope is that I can continue my crafting in spite of our dire economic times. I make my potpourris and bath products because I love using them, and I hope that others will enjoy them as much as I do.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Keep doing what you love and don't stress if it doesn't get the attention that you expected. Try new things, too...you never know what fun new opportunities await around the corner!

Marilou: Now I feel like pampering myself with your products, more like my "Home Spa"

Jana: Thank you again, and Mahalo! I hope to visit your beautiful part of the world someday!

Broken Hallelujah "You're the Star"

Name: Brandy aka Broken Hallelujah

Company: Broken Hallelujah Accessories

State/Location: TX

Featured Product: STAR BURST MARY JANE SLIPPERS

These slippers are made with a 100% acrylic yarn creating a pair of fashionable and warm slippers. They also feature a bright, yellow star decal on the toe of the slipper.Fits US women's shoe size 7-10. Washer and dryer safe, but hand washing and air drying is recommended for best results.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

Crafter

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I am mostly motivated by color and texture. I love experimenting with different color combinations or new textures of yarn.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I love to travel, take nature walks, go to the movies, and of course shop! If I had a day to do whatever I'd like I'd probably take a day-trip to a nearby park and just enjoy being outside - taking pictures, have a picnic, and just walk.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

I love making my mary jane slippers because I get to play with different color combinations. I do enjoy everything I make, though.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

Artfire - http://brokenhallelujah.artfire.com/

and Etsy - http://brokenhallelujah.etsy.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I love doing custom orders on any of my items and all items ship the next business day after payment is received so items arrive quickly after they are ordered.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I simply craft because I enjoy doing it. I don't really dream of making it big or making a lot of money off of it. I just hope that people enjoy my items.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Crafting takes a lot of work and dedication if you want to sell your work, but always make sure that you craft because you love it and not because you think it'll make you rich quick, etc. It probably won't, but if you love doing it, that won't matter.

"Garden of Talented Artist"

A posting dedicated to artisans/crafters who have found a niche in the handmade world. With their permission I will feature products from their webstore and contact info so you can avail yourself what other special items they have.

Andrea Wagner Company-Star of The Day

Featured Work:GREEN PEACOCK SCARF

Beautiful scarf made of green italian nylon and brown italian acrylic(eyelash)I knitted these two yarns together ; the fringes are ribbon yarn.Measurement are: Length: 66 inches. Width: 9 inches. Fringes: 9 inches.This scarf is so soft, light and warm. It can be used with a pair of jeans or with an elegant coat or jacquet.

The Star of the Day Name: Andrea Wagner

Company: Andrea Designs

State/Location: Texas

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

That I create for women to feel pamper and to look beautiful

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Color, texture of the materials. In general, I see a yarn and I am visualizing in my mind what combination or product I can create

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

Sleep late, eat and watch tv

What are your favorite designs/creations?

All of them, at the time I design a product I must be happy with the end product

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://www.andreadesigns.artfire.com/

http://andreawagnerdesigns.etsy.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I will work with my customer until she is happy with the product she bought from me.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I would like to dedicate 100% of my time to my craft, and to be recognized it for everybody.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

That we need to continue doing what we love to do, not only for a monetary remuneration; but because we feel good creating, and our creation is making another person happy.

Marilou: It has been a pleasure having you for this special interview.

Andrea: Thank you again,

Andrea Wagner AndreaDesigns.artfire.com

Beads by TLC "Star of the Day"

Name: Tricia’s Lampwork Creations

Location: Plymouth, MI

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?
Someone who puts her heart and soul into her work and gives her customers nothing but her “best!”

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I love taking an idea and seeing it come to life. Not to mention hearing someone say as if pleasantly surprised, “You made that?”

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today? Making more glass beads, as long as I am in the groove, I truly love being in front of the flame.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

I love color and I love layers and depth. I also love the random flow of the color – somewhat organic in nature. Perhaps controlled chaos if you will?

Where can they see your crafts and designs?
http://www.beadsbytlc.artfire.com/
www.beadsbytlc.com

What’s the best customer service you can offer?
I am a very firm believer in customer service. I know your money was hard earned, your time is precious and every now and then you would like to feel special. Given that, I do my best to provide you with a beautiful piece of art that you feel like you got a deal on, I communicate with you to let you know what the status of your order is. I deliver as quickly as possible (often times for free), I package it beautifully so you feel like you are receiving a gift and to keep you coming back for more, I offer special discounts or coupons.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?
To grow in my art by experimenting and exploring new techniques and ideas so that I can bring the customer something fresh while at the same time fulfill my desire to create and develop as an artist.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?
Follow your heart, make what you love. I believe it shows in your work if you are passionate about your art. Also customer service, customer service, customer service – make them happy!

Bijoux Design for You "Shining Star"

Designer: We are the mother/ daughter team of Glenda and April.

Company: Rouge River Beads and Bijoux Designs For You

State/Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

We love beads as much as we love creating and our goal is to bring other artisans quality beads, charms and findings at reasonable prices! Additionally, we want those who don’t make their own to able to find fashionable, fun products for even those on the tightest budgets to be able to enjoy.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Sometimes inspiration comes from making a piece for myself to match an outfit, sometimes it’s a great bead or charm, sometimes you just wake up at 3am with an ah-hah moment! We both just enjoy making pretty things and hope to be able to share them with others.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I have a 7 month old so my ultimate dream would be to sleep in!!! Lots of baby hugs and kisses and in my perfect dream world it would be warm outside and we could spend the afternoon swimming and at the park. I would follow that by a nice dinner out with my hubby and maybe going to a theatrical production.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

I’m a sucker for earrings, whether they be my own creations or someone else’s. Anything with the word Mom or Grandma also captures our attention. I adore making bookmarks and the pink and white MOM one in our shop is my current fav, closely followed by Spring Cascade. I remember scouring book fairs as a kid looking for fun bookmarks and now I can’t stop making them!

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

You can find our jewelry and gifts at

http://www.bijouxdesignsforyou.artfire.com/

http://www.bijouxdesignsforyou.etsy.com/

You can visit our supplies store at

http://www.rougeriverbeads.artfire.com/

http://www.rougeriverbeads.etsy.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

We stand behind our products, want to make sure that every customer is satisfied and are honest and respectful in our business. We strive to ship quickly and offer our products at competitive prices.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

The ultimate dream would be to have our own little gift/bead store. We are slowly but surely working towards that goal and just learning, creating and enjoying our journey!

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

Believe in yourself, work hard, and be patient. Learn and grow every day and enjoy your journey!

Silver River Jewelry "Star of the Day"

Name: Sonja

Company: Silver River Jewelry

"whimsical jewelry from my heart and hand to yours"

State/Location: Ohio

Featured work/design:

Triangle pendant cut from sheet metal, lightly textured with dragon flies stamped on all three corners. two mother of pearl cabs, one blue and one green give the same shimmer as the wings of a dragon fly.

What would you like to be known or recognize as a crafter/artisan?

I would like to be known for unique, well made items that last a lifetime.

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

Everything. Its more of a need than inspiration lol! I do get inspiration almost everywhere. I have a line of pendants that was inspired by painting at a restaurant.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

In my workshop working on metal.

What are your favorite designs/creations?

Right now my favorites are my wildflower in copper series of pendants.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://silverriverjewelry.com/

This is my main site, it shows a small sampling of my work and gives links to other venues where I have most of my items listed for sale.

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

Good contact with the customer from that first thank you for your order this is when I am shipping, to making sure that the product is the best that it can be and shipped in a timely manner.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I want to do this full time and quit my day job.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

No matter what if you are doing what you love don't give up. And don't let yourself get burned out by the non crafty side, take the time to step back and take a break if you need it.

Marilou:Mahalo for your time

Sonja: Thanks for doing this! I will add a link to your blog from mine also.

Star of the Day "Thejewelryshop"

Name: Amy

Company: TheJewelryShop

State/Location: Florida

What motivates or inspire you to do crafting?

I love to take pieces and parts and see what I can make from them. I love jewelry of all kinds, so it's really fun to make my own. The best part is when the piece is finished and I can see the results - I don't always know where a design will end up when I start it.

Given today as a day you can do whatever you like, how would you spend today?

I would spend time with my family, make jewelry, and go shopping at the thrift stores to see what goodies I could find. I love looking for vintage components. I also love to go to the beach, but to get all of that done it would have to be a very long day ;)

What are your favorite designs/creations?

My favorite creations are my pendants and my knotted necklaces.

Where can they see your crafts and designs?

http://www.thejewelryshop.artfire.com/

What’s the best customer service you can offer?

I always try to answer all questions promptly and keep in touch with my customers. I respond with a thank you email when I receive the order and notify them when their item ships. I know these things are important to me, so I try to give the type of service I would like to receive.

What’s your hopes and desire for your crafting?

I just hope people like my pieces as much as I enjoy making them.

Can you share a message to fellow crafters/artisans?

If you want to sell your items online, don't get discouraged if the sales take time. Every new shop must build a following and as much time is usually spent in promoting your shop as in creating your items. People have to know you are out there before they can buy from you.

Best of Artfire Artisans

For the month of March I will be starting to feature "Star of the Day" artist from Artfire. They will be my honored guest here in Honolulu.