Search results (tags) for: "original"

Etsy Finds: One-of-a-Kind Gifts

2009-11-11T10:38:00-05:00

Today's Etsy Finds showcase a collection of daring and creative one-of-a-kind items found on Etsy. One-of-a-kind pieces, or OOAK, are those of a design that will not be replicated. While anything made by hand has its own personality that varies from piece to piece, one-of-a-kinds are characterized as one-offs or originals, and may show experimentation with materials or design. Many OOAK items on Etsy are made of found or recycled materials, and therefore cannot be duplicated.

The lucky buyer of an OOAK piece will be the only owner of this item, so if you see something you like, act quickly! You can also peruse the One-of-a-Kind Gifts in Etsy's Gift Guides or search the term "OOAK" to see more inspired originals.

Comet Tail Amethyst Ring

By elseetee2, $45.

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CAROLINA STORM Painting

By CarolOnEdge, $89.

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Guinevere Ring

By persimmonjewelry, $150.

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The Straw Gable Oil Painting

By zephi, $375.

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CELIA, early American folk doll

By HoneysuckleLane, $100.

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Traveling Original Acrylic Painting

By rowenamurillo, $65.

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The Alice Necklace (OOAK)

By ReaganHayhurst, $150.

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Pauline OOAK Art Doll

By Youngish, $150.

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HIGH ABOVE LABRADOR

By emmarts, $265.

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Cottonball Dress, OOAK

By rosetung, $300.

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Lavender Cat

By MarianneW, $135.

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Medusa named Rose Top

By attiladesign, $435.

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The Green With Envy Dress

By DeluzDresses, $320.

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Summer Haze Original Painting

By JessicaTorrant, $170.

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TR3-O - Orange Flat Top Ring

By RachaelGrigulis, $150.

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Mushroom Art Dress (Eco-Fashion)

By Toolgrrl, $1200.

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Linen Pillow Case Cover

By pinkdixie, $25.

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OOAK - Hand painted wooden bowl

By VinMo, $26.

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toille maple seed pods collage

By SmilingGeckoStudio, $35.

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Black Geometric Cut-out Tall Vase

By NewMoonStudio, $85.

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Olive Mist Freeform Crochet Handbag

By rensfibreart, $226.

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No False Claims Ceramic Plate

By spareGus, $80.

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Man With a View Original Collage

By herselfsurprised, $40.

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Ladder Industrial Necklace OOAK

By insectus, $80.

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OOAK Sea Urchin Gourd Purse

By QueenBeeloved, $200.

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Antique Lawyers' Letter Collage

By sparrowsalvage, $65.

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Helene wedding dress

By Leanimal, $1295.

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Sweet Bird Gypsi Bag

By ObeliaDesign, $275.

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renewable bamboo lightning pillow

By goga, $60.

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The Dogtag Necklace

By Alquimia, $80.

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Original Watercolor Collage Painting

By colorklipse, $125.

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Woodland Owl Doll / Pillow

By byAgnes, $34.

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Sweet Obsessions Card (no.22)

By CardsInStitches, $13.

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Stitch Noir Embroidered Silhouette

By selahestelle, $75.

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Folded Hickory Bowl OOAK

By RonH, $60.

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Hanging Notes

By TANGLeAndFoLd, $48.

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Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Guest Curators | Trends | One-of-a-Kind Gifts

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How-Tuesday: Mee Goreng Recipe from L.A.'s Farmers Market

2009-07-21T14:43:00-05:00

Visiting farmers' markets in summertime always serves as a much-needed reminder that food shopping can be enjoyable. From Brooklyn to Palo Alto, Martha's Vineyard to New Orleans, I've found these open air venues to be a never-ending source of inspiration for cooking. I love the soil still clinging to garlic bulbs, the young members of the family business counting my change, and the vendors' encouragement to try the Tatsoi, because that's what's local, fresh, and delicious.

Farmers' markets support that handmade legacy to which we all aspire: connecting the consumer to the maker, and by doing so, connecting the consumer to the product. Through my farmers' market experiences, I have developed the utmost respect for not just the growers, but the food itself. That's why it made such inherent sense to me when I picked up JoAnn Cianciulli's L.A.'s Original Farmers Market Cookbook. With recipes inspired by the stalls at this national landmark, she honors the history and community that contribute to every one of our meals. In this excerpt from JoAnn's book, learn about the story behind the Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles, as well as a salivation-inducing recipe for Mee Goreng, a fried noodle dish, from Stall 122. How-Tuesday never tasted so good!

These days, all around the country, there are "farmers' markets"—and then there is L.A.'s oldest outdoor market, the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax. From its quaint beginnings in 1934, with local farmers selling produce from the backs of their trucks, to its current spot in the pantheon of Los Angeles's official Historical and Cultural Landmarks, Farmers Market has proven that, indeed, some things really do get better with age. Millions of visitors each year agree.

In its early stages, Farmers Market was a cluster of farm stalls tenanted by small growers who sold directly to the consumer. The main appeal was the extra freshness of vegetables still damp from the morning soil, of fruits ripened on the tree rather than picked hard and green so that they would ship better. The farmers' wives brought in their homemade jams and jellies, and alongside the newly laid eggs and plump fresh chickens were goodies like fresh-baked cookies, homemade breads, and rich chocolate layer cakes, all straight from farm kitchens. It wasn't long before the butcher and grocer sought a place to do business alongside these farmers, who were drawing the patronage of people who knew a good thing when they nibbled it. In time, there appeared import shops and specialty-food stands of nearly every variety. And finally, as a result of an irresistible natural trend, Farmers Market became a cornucopia of restaurants.

Archival photo included in L.A.'s Original Farmers Market Cookbook

Today Farmers Market is a combination of family-owned and operated stalls featuring cuisine, groceries, produce, meats, and seafood from around the world. In a city full of wannabes, where a restaurant is considered a classic if it manages to hang around for more than a decade, the seventy-five-year-old Farmers Market is a miracle of longevity.

Archival photos included in L.A.'s Original Farmers Market Cookbook

Farmers Market is a thriving, ongoing festival of sights and sounds, flavors and smells in the center of our nation's second-largest city. Overlooking one of the busiest corners of Los Angeles, Farmers Market occupies the intersection of Third Street and Fairfax Avenue, supremely anchored in the heart of the city's shopping and dining district.

The original recipes in this cookbook reflect the personality of the Market and represent contributions from every kitchen. Far more than just a collection of weights and measures, this food lover's storybook serves as an enduring companion piece that brings to life the experience that is a trip to Farmers Market. The multigenerational shop owners offer a one-on-one experience that has largely been lost in the service industry today. You can expect to do business with a human being, with a name and a face, who has both stories to tell and your personal satisfaction at heart. In short, the merchants are the Market, the faces behind the place. This all-encompassing memoir not only pays homage to their food, but also honors their varied and intense connections to the spirit of this unique place. No matter where you're from, Farmers Market offers a taste of home, as the aromas of several hundred ingredients mingle with the sounds of chatter from several dozen nations.

Archival photo included in L.A.'s Original Farmers Market Cookbook

The sense of being welcome and comfortable is evident in the eyes and the smiles of all who visit, be they old or young, veteran or first-timer. This is why the location is so special. It's the reason people gather here. It's why the phrase, "Meet Me at Third and Fairfax" has become an indelible part of the city's lexicon. This is not only a book to cook from, to learn from, to relish; it's one that will re-create the very soul of being at Farmers Market.

Photograph of author JoAnn Cianciulli, by Karl Petzke

Mee Goreng Recipe:

The stall of Singapore's Banana Leaf might be small, but the flavor of the food is big and not to be missed. The cuisine of Singapore is a delicious blend of Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Malay cuisines. Family trio Diana and Isaac Gazal and their son, Michael, opened this popular eatery in 2001 after realizing the Market atmosphere was pleasantly similar to an actual Singapore hawker (outdoor food stall). The hybrid wonders of the cuisine were obscure to the owners of Farmers Market, and in true Hollywood style, the Gazals had to audition their specialties for them. They were blown away by the taste of Diana's various delicacies and impressed by her signature approach of showcasing every dish on a banana leaf. And so this cozy gem of a hideaway, with its ceiling fans overhead and its wicker chairs and printed tablecloths, began.

Soon Asians, Malaysians, Indian, and Muslim clientele were flocking to the Market for the real deal of Singaporean-style curries and noodles. Diana came to the United States when she was seventeen years old, with twenty-five dollars, a suitcase, and the ability to cook. She's been in the kitchen all her life and her commitment to the restaurant and its quality is exceptional. In her mind, the true seal of honorary approval came when the president of Singapore visited and loved the authenticity of her dishes. And it is well-deserved kudos for this mini-powerhouse of a woman who stands all of 4 feet 10 inches tall but is a ball of fire who lets nothing get in the way of her dream or her cooking. The menu's recipes were all developed by her, and the vibrant tastes can be attributed to the curry leaves grown fresh in their home garden, a must-have ingredient in many of the dishes. With Diana on the food front, Isaac in charge of the books, and charming Michael handling public relations, Singapores' Banana Leaf continues to be a happy family affair and best of all, as a team, they put the delicious cuisne of SIngapore on the map at the Market.

Mee Goreng, one of the better known dishes of Singapore, is a standard hawker-stall favorite. Goreng means "fried" and mee means "noodle"—in this case thin yellow egg noodles. Vermicelli makes a fine substitute if you can't find the real deal. At Singapore's Banana Leaf, the spicy noodles are topped with your choice of tofu, chicken, or the most requested—Indo style—a fried egg.

Put the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil, uncovered. Simmer until there is no resistance when a fork is inserted into the potatoes, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes in a colander. While they are still hot, carefully peel off the skins with a paring knife; use a kitchen towel to hold them. Cut into 1/2-inch pieces.

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the noodles until just tender but still firm to the bite (al dente), about 7 minutes. Take care not to overcook. Rinse under running cool water and drain well. Set aside.

Place a wok or large skillet over medium heat and coat with the oil. When the oil gets hazy, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook and stir until the vegetables are tender but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add the potatoes and continue to cook and stir for 2 minutes to combine and heat through.

Push the vegetables to the sides of the pan and pour the eggs into the center. Scramble the eggs lightly until set, breaking them up into pieces with a spatula. Incorporate the vegetables into the eggs; season with the tumeric, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.

Add the drained noodles to the wok, stirring and tossing quickly to separate the strands. Pour in the soy sauce, tossing well to coat the noodles and keep them from sticking (drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, if necessary). Add the bean sprouts and green onions; cook and stir until softened slightly, about 5 minutes. Photograph by hhhillaryyy

Divide the noodles among 4 plates, top with a fried egg, if using, and garnish with sliced green onion and fried shallots. Serve with lime wedges.

Dying to learn more recipes from L.A.'s Farmers Market? Chronicle Books is offering a special discount to Etsy readers! Just use the code "ETSY" at checkout on their site, and you save 20% off the price as well as free shipping. That's just perfectly delectable!

More How-Tuesday Posts | Slow Food Gift Guide | Plants and Edibles Category

A Fond Farewell to the King of Pop

2009-06-26T16:32:00-05:00

Here at Etsy, the community mourns the loss of Michael Jackson by paying tribute rooted in creativity. Throughout his career, MJ was a figure of innovation: a global phenomenon who broke down boundaries not just in music, but race and culture as well. With the best selling record of all time, a repertoire of music videos that redefined the medium, and an edgy style that sparked trends around the world, Michael serves as a constant reminder that the greatest threat to art is compliance.

To do Jackson's legacy justice, we channel his inspiration in order to create something fresh and original. Let's all take a moment out of our day to moonwalk across our studios, and collectively express, "R.I.P. MJ!"

Which Michael Jackson era helped you come of age? Reminisce in the comments below!

Browse the Music Category on Etsy | More Pop Culture Posts

Etsy Finds: The New Old School

2009-06-23T12:00:00-05:00

There are many things in life that you can teach yourself: sewing a hem, making delicious hummus, and playing the harmonica are some accomplished examples. The do-it-yourself ethos runs deep and strong here on Etsy, but there's another facet to this creative treasure trove. Today's Etsy Finds are devoted to the traditional craftsmanship of yore, as viewed through a modern lens. These trades have traditionally been passed down through guilds and apprenticeships, keeping the handicraft skill sets alive and well to this day.

Ceramics and Pottery

Whether it's thrown, molded or cast, ceramics and pottery are a delight to observe (and carefully touch!). To learn more about this often utilitarian art form, check out our recent Facts and Fancies series on the subject.

Swiss Lamp in White

By jillrosenwald, $775.

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Blue Teapot

By lawatson, $175.

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Lace Bottle

By holepot, $1000.

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White Porcelain Fruit Bowl with Holes

By isabelleabramson, $350.

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Glass

Glass is one of the most ancient and time honored crafting traditions. Blown, stained or mosaic, glass making is a complex art form. Learn more about how glass is blown here.

Aqueous Stars

By leibenaller, $1250.

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Vivid Orange Blown Glass Vase

By corporanglass, $375.

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Damselfly

By TobyUptonGlass, $425.

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Biodiversity Sculpture

By AustinArtGlass, $575.

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Woodworking

Is there a more noble profession that that of the woodworker? The range of creations that can be hewn from a single tree is staggering. Furniture and musical instruments are but the tip of the iceberg.

Mahogany Butcher table

By attiladesign, $3200.

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Bamboo Electric Guitar

By liceaguitars, $1750.

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Large Flickering Lone Star Oak Table

By woodmosaics, $8500.

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Roll Top Desk - Available for commission

By janiesmash, $8600.

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Jewelry

These one of a kind pieces are sure to wow. Goldsmithing is a craft I wouldn't mind learning, if only for the decorative advantages (ahem, new rings weekly!).

Holding Hands Necklace

By margauxlange, $495.

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Papallona

By masaoms, $180.

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Large Spheres Knots Necklace

By SNoU, $625.

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Perelandrian Ring

By nanopod, $350.

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Leatherworking

Leather is such a malleable, yet durable, material. These pieces are sure to last a lifetime.

Grape Leaves and Tendrils Deluxe Cuff

By sunnyrising, $119.

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Leather in Antique Brown and Brass

By moxieandoliver, $750.

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Custom Red Retro Platform Pumps

By zerkahloostrah, $500.

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Nenjuu Leather Bag

By JMBCanada, $450.

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Fine Art

Etsy's Art Category holds countless aesthetic wonders. These gallery-worthy pieces are just a sampling.

Grace.

By jdmphotographs, $200.

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Original Oil - Made of the night

By thisisalliknow, $1600.

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Further West Metal Sculpture

By NoClassic, $285.

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How Is One.....

By olivamoon, $475.

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Fiber Art and Textiles

This collection encompasses the worlds of crochet, needlecraft, quilting, with some mixed media fiber art thrown in for good measure. The intricacy and attention to detail is awe-inspiring.

Beret21

By dadaya, $128.

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Moist Mother Earth

By TheFaerieMarket, $8000.

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Textile necklace nO.395

By kjoo, $280.

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Fallow Fields - Rag Quilt, Reversible

By wiccked, $599.

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You need not look very far to see all of the quality craftsmanship on Etsy! What's your favorite medium?

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Facts and Fancies Series | Trends | Gift Ideas

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Artistic Endeavors: Dollhead's Favorite Collage

2009-03-05T16:00:00-05:00

Collage can be executed in so many styles. I love them all, but I seem to be most attracted to the extremes.

I have collected work that uses collage in both simple and bold fashions, as well as detailed and visually complicated images. I aimed to pick original works of art because, although I love the idea of making and selling prints, one-of-a-kind pieces are so precious.

I love the contrast that collage can create, especially when the art is created with mixed media. The use of existing images or pieces of paper can balance out the imperfection of painted surfaces, pencil, and crayon marks. To me, it feels like controlled chaos sometimes; on the line between free form painterly fine art and careful graphic design compositions.

I guess it says a lot about where I'm coming from, as a commercial artist who spends many hours working on a concept with a purpose, who also needing to just shut off my brain and just allow the stream of consciousness to take over.

My choices originate from these extremes, and some step outside of the realm of traditional 2-D collage. I hope this selection inspires everyone in some way!

Java Goddess

I love the imagery and colors of Java Goddess. The design is very balanced and graphic. By WinonaCookie, $100.

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Willow Vine, Original painting/collage, 8 x 20, on canvas

This is so pretty! I love this oval shape. (I've been a bit obsessed with it myself lately.) The patterns are terrific also. By SherylSprattDesigns, $55.

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Collages around - original mini book

How cute is this? I love handmade books — especially quirky, imperfectly cut ones! The pages are all cut in different shapes and the collage is minimal, yet so whimsical. By yaelfran, $36.50.

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Original Owl Collage

This is an extremely impressive piece. The detail is obsessively dreamy and its size deserves a grand white wall and a regal wooden frame. Love! By kimmyhoots, $500.

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an idea strikes 6 ORIGINAL mixed media collage

Sometimes less is (way) more. This collage speaks volumes to me. It also seems like it would converse well with other elements in any given context or wall display. By gretchenmist, $46.

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Life Is A Bowl of Apples Original Mixed Media

How many bowls of apples have been represented in art? It is so great to see a really fresh approach! I love this piece — those tiny dots are maybe my favorite part. I also love the flatness and subtle variations of the two main colors. Yum! By ZenDotStudio, $125.

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Lost - Original Paper Cut Collage

I'm drawn to this for its antique quality. It reminds me of an old doll illustration from the 19th century — something that might be on display at a corner shop. The stamp lettering adds the element of story. By DearDodo, $45.

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H2o - Collage di Guglielmo Mazzenzana

I can't stop looking at this piece. It is both tense and dreamy at the same time...it represents a place on the other side of a double rainbow, I think. By abatefaria, $1150.

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Bird House Fabric Collage Pillow

This is such a lovely example of fabric collage; I want a whole collection of these pillows on my sofa! By sweetdovedesigns, $24.

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Raccoon Wall Plate

i consider this to be ceramic collage! The mirror adds a live element. By ArtsparkTheatre, $16.

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Looking for more artwork? Check out these links.

Artistic Endeavors series | Artwork for Every Room Showcase

Art Gift Guides | Collage Sub-Category

Etsy Finds: Yours and Yours Alone

2009-03-02T10:29:00-05:00

Sometimes I need to know that I own something no one else in the world has. Whether it's an antique photograph or a one of a kind dress, it's comforting to know that I won't be running into anyone else with the same flair. My art collection follows the same mentality. Original fine art is a treasure worth investing in. There's something so authentic and raw about seeing every brush stroke, every fingerprint and knowing that someone's hands molded that singular object. Here are some exemplary handmade art pieces to get your collection started.

Candy

By tushtush, $55.

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The Amount of Tea I Drink in a Week, green version original encaustic painting

By jamieribisi, $160.

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helicopters original oil painting

By katep, $250.

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Sperm Whale, ceramic sculpture

By lsheely, $150.

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breaks my heart...

By joettamaue, $225.

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The Blush

By naomilayne, $99.

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She's Stuck but There's Time

By beacon11, $500.

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Dark Place

By landfall, $65.

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Hey Suburbia, We're In Love With You - Original Painting

By copperinc, $25.

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Doesn't it feel good to know it's yours and yours alone?

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Artistic Endeavors Series | Guest Curators | Search for Original Art

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Artistic Endeavors: Livefunky's Favorite Abstract Painters

2009-03-01T15:18:00-05:00

I love all kinds of styles and approaches to art, but being an abstract painter I am naturally drawn to like-minded artists and their work. The beauty of abstract art is that it triggers an abstract response. Color, texture and composition of forms create a chemistry that reacts differently with each and every person. I liken this to love or listening to a great jazz song. There is a freedom I admire — not just in the creation of the art, but in the perception of it as well. Some folks may ask "But what does it mean?" and maybe the answer isn't "Whatever you want it to mean," but rather, "Whatever it makes you feel."

My list of favorite abstract artists is much longer than ten, but here is a selection of painters I greatly admire who inspire me as an artist. They are in no particular order, although I must begin with the woman who first introduced me to Etsy in 2006 — thank you, Amanda!

RUM TRUFFLE - Abstract Art - FREE SHIPPING

I'm such a fan of Amanda's unabashed use of brilliant color and her zen-like ability to compose a painting. By Amanda Hone of Pinwheel, $120.

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EarthPoem1-2 Original Abstract Acrylic Painting Collage Elis

Elis creates other worlds with her lyrical abstract paintings, and her textured mixed media works have an ethereal glow. By Elis Cooke of intotheblystic, $65.

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Samba - Original Acrylic Monotype on Archival Paper

I love Martha's expressive way with color, creating interesting and intuitive marks and textures. By Martha Marshall of colorpoetry, $40.

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Transparent (original oil painting on canvas)

The many layers in Kendra's colorful abstract paintings create a dazzling, hypnotic effect. By Kendra Zvonik of teamzvonik, $550.

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Softening III

I see a balance between subtle elegance and playful experimentation in Meghan's work that really speaks to me. I particularly enjoy her use of sgraffito in many of her paintings. By meghanhenley, $100.

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Ashore

Erin's abstracts have an exactness that remind me of architectural designs. Her use of color is just as alert and intelligently conceived. By erinryanmiller, $950.

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Fragments of Nature 21

Mary Ann's sophisticated and bold abstracts are constantly educating me as a painter. I think she's absolutely brilliant! By maryannwakeley, $124.

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Large Abstract 5

I always enjoy looking through Jean's shop of original paintings and mixed media works. She has such a keen eye for color and her compositions are spot on. By jeanhutter, $400.

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Original Paintings Diptych Abstract Mixed Media Art by Aisyah Ang with Cert 36x48 inches

Aisyah has an impressive expressionist style and she's an artist that takes risks. I love that about her work. By AisyahAng, $300.

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Fire and Ice

Milton has an exceptional way with light and color, both in his abstracts and in his more representational work. By miltongravy, $2800.

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See more of my favorites below or search "abstract art" to discover other abstract artists that speak to you (and don't forget to stop by my blog)!

Looking for more artwork? Head over to our Artistic Endeavors series.

Art Category | Gallery Go-Getter Series | More Art Related Posts

Artistic Endeavors: Displaying Your Original Artwork

2009-01-23T13:08:00-05:00

This installment of the Artistic Endeavors series is brought to you by painter lauratrevey. She gives us a how-to on the merits of original artwork and how to display it to its best effect.

Are you tired of your old dusty prints on the wall? Think original artwork. Pick a piece that speaks to you. If you're going to pay for it, you want to love it!

Think different! You want to make a statement. Try a large abstract painting in a formal, more traditional room, like the one I've placed in the above image.

Mats and Frames:
Have your original painting matted well. There is no magic formula for deciding how wide a mat should be, but it is better to choose wider spaces, as it gives the eye somewhere to rest between the picture and frame. Small borders give the impression of a picture being squeezed into a frame that is too small.

Place a thick white mat and frame around any artwork and it will enhance its beauty. I always put my artwork in 3 to 4.5 inch off-white or white mats. Another extra touch is to use a double mat. See how the thin red mat accentuates the red crab painting? By adding a little color, the red crab stands out!

Have you ever heard of “floating” a painting? You may want to consider floating the painting in the frame if there is a deckled edge. (A soft natural edge that is compatible with its linen like texture.) When you float a painting the mat does not cover up the edges, so you see the rough deckled edge. You can also float acrylics and oil paintings.

So artists, take that extra step and present your artwork with added professionalism. Placing a mat around your artwork will give the buyer a better idea of what the finished product will look like. You can buy pre-cut acid-free mats at most art supply stores. I use cheapjoes.com for ordering in bulk. For framing your originals, I recommend finding a locally owned framer with whom you can build a relationship. They want your business and will usually give you lower prices than national retail stores.

Hanging:
Don't be so symmetrical! Shake it up a bit and create an extra artistic element on your wall with the shapes you create with your grouping. Place an odd number and different sizes together. Think about your space. For instance, don't hang a small painting on a large wall — it will get lost in proportion. Either go with one large painting or create a grouping, as mentioned above.

Don't be scared! So many people are afraid of hanging artwork because they're not confident that they've found that one perfect and exact place, and they don't want to be stuck with holes in the wall. Just do it! You can always move paintings around. I do it ALL the time...

It shouldn't be a chore — have fun with it!

Looking for more art related posts? Check out the rest of the Artistic Endeavors series and stay tuned!

Art Category | Print Category | Art Related Posts

Home Interiors and Design Gift Guide | Art for Every Room Showcase

Artistic Endeavors: BergmansBear's Favorite Paintings

2009-01-20T14:00:00-05:00

As part of our Artistic Endeavors series, artist and art-lover Carrie Bergman aka BergmansBear shares her favorite original paintings found in Etsy's treasure troves of Art.

One of the things I love about art — paintings in particular — is how the artist can choose to display or withhold the visual information that allows your brain to make sense of what you are seeing. My favorite artwork usually contains secret symbolism, ambiguity, and situations that grow more mysterious or illogical the longer you look at them. Here, I've picked pieces that inhabit that foggy zone between the familiar and the unknown.

they all fall down

Like an illustration from a lost storybook by Francisco Goya. The beasts have strange and wonderful powers. I want to explore the world where this scene is taking place! By spenfold1, $550.

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5. Hicks with sticks

A bizarre and disturbing situation, beautifully presented, with just the right amount of missing information. I can't stop looking at this painting. By thomasdeininger, $120.

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small hands II - original painting

I love the texture of this tiny piece (check out the detail shot). To me, it conjures up thoughts of magic and rituals, prehistoric cave paintings, and transmutation. By NuitBlanche, $60.

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Betsy Sleeping

I love the way her head floats, detached, amidst the bundled sheets, and the subtle contrast of her pink skin with the grey-green wall. Calming and comforting, but also mysterious. By garyjwhitehead, $300.

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Prancer (Original Artwork)

I own a print of this ink painting, and am really glad to see that Justin Durand has finally come to Etsy! He illustrates some very unusual characters. Mr. Prancer doesn't seem human, exactly…I like to think of him as a kind of spirit that has assumed human form to prance around and play, oblivious to the elements, so that he can wear fancy footwear. By justindurand, $125.

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Personal Mantra Power in the Repeats

When I go through periods of anxiety, I make myself feel better by imagining that everything in the world—every person, animal, object, everything—is just endlessly reflecting love to me and everyone else as a kind of net of support for each other. I was instantly reminded of that by this ink painting, but what I especially love is the juxtaposition of the uplifting words with those confounding brown shapes in the middle of everything. By nucrone, $30.

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ORIGINAL Little King IV

The puppet-characters from "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood" loomed large in my imagination as a kid, especially King Friday, who morphed in my mind into a simultaneously frightening yet kind father-figure-archetype. All in silhouette except for adornment and a large staring eye, the little kings painted by Iris Schwarz evoke that same feeling from the corners of my memory. By irisschwarz, $28.

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Eliza in gloves - original gouache watercolour painting on paper

Cathy Cullis's amazing embroidered and painted images are like secret fairytales. Eliza, ghostly and innocent, poses sweetly with her menacing gloved hands. By cathycullis, $40.

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March Fields, Larger Landscape Painting on Paper, Original

I want to adopt Harry Stooshinoff's work ethic: "There is a desire to bear witness every day. It seems negligent not to record how the world looked and felt today.....it will be very different tomorrow." His shop is filled with beautiful glimpses and memory fragments. This acrylic painting is one of my favorites. It reminds me of my own memories of tromping around in wintry New England fields. By Paintbox, $200.

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force recoil

I'm not quite sure how to explain why I am so attracted to this image; all I know is that it makes me really happy! I want to be tangled in a balloon string, drifting with my feet off the ground. By TheSmallFactory, $150.

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Looking for more artwork? Stay tuned for the rest of the Artistic Endeavors series.

Art Category | More Art Related Posts | Painting Category

Original Paintings | Art for Every Room Showcase

What's your favorite painting on Etsy? Post in the comments below!

Virtual Labs Schedule: October 6th - October 10th, 2008

2008-10-06T10:04:00-05:00

The Virtual Labs are Etsy's interactive classrooms, a place to hang out, throw paper airplanes and share skills. Keep an eye out for some specific Virtual Labs events this month to help sellers and shoppers get prepared for the Holidays.

Want to host your own workshop or meeting in the Virtual Labs? Fill out an application here!

The following schedule covers October 6th to October 10th, 2008 (all Eastern Daylight Time). The schedule posted in the Virtual Labs is magically in *your* time. If you are confused, just click here to see what's coming up in your real time.

Monday

Newbie Chat with Danielle and Julie — 3pm in the Treehouse. Newbies! Get your questions answered here! Julie and Danielle can help get your shop started on the right foot.

Craft Night! — 5pm in the Treehouse. Fall is in the air! This week we'll be making pumpkin pincushions. We will demonstrate how to hand sew and embellish these lovely little creations. These pincushions make wonderful gifts and decorations for the fall. This project is open to people with all levels of sewing experience.

Tuesday

Show and Tell for Sellers — 7pm in the Lounge. Come share what you are working on! Everyone will get their own time to talk about a project they are working on and get feedback. Come with links to pictures of your work in progress, or if you have a webcam, you can show us live!

Newbie Chat with Danielle and Julie — 4:15pm in the Treehouse. Newbies! Get your questions answered here! Julie and Danielle can help get your shop started on the right foot

Wednesday

Show and Tell for Buyers: Halloween Party Items — 4pm in the Lounge. Hello Shoppers! Throwing a Halloween party? Come see what fun Halloween items Etsy has to offer! Together we'll make a Treasury!

On-The-Fly Critiques with the EtsyLabs ladies — 5pm in the Treehouse. Pop in for a mini-critique with some experienced sellers and Etsy admin.

Thursday

Weekly Teams Meeting with Sara and Danielle — 12pm in the Teams Room.

Office Hours: Vanessa, Alison, Tara and Bre (Storque Admin) — 1pm in the Storque Room.

How-To For the Holidays — 4pm in the Treehouse. Every week we'll be hosting a How-To for sellers to help you get ready for the holiday shopping season. This weeks topic: Shipping and Packaging for the Holidays.

Office Hours: Mary (Etsy Community Advocate) — 7pm in the Lounge.

Bead Art Originals Trunk Show - 7pm in the Treehouse. Hello, Shoppers! Come join the Bead Art Originals Street Team as we show off our unique, original jewelry and bead designs. Artists include beadweavers, lampworkers, polymer clay artists, and more; and several of the participants are offering special promotions for the Trunk Show.

Friday

On-The-Fly Critiques with the EtsyLabs ladies — 3pm in the Treehouse. Pop in for a mini-critique with some experienced sellers and Etsy admin.

Learn more about the Virtual Labs here! Apply to hold your own meetings or online workshops in the Virtual Labs here! Or send me a convo. You can also check out the Events Calendar in the Storque!

And now—a few of my favorite Halloween Party items on Etsy! Enjoy!

Etsy Finds: Love It and Leave It

2008-09-25T09:51:00-05:00

Sometimes to really love a city you have to leave it. New York's history as an art capital is long and venerated, oddball and full of fits and explosions. This volatility and excitement is what has drawn generations of artists from Europe and the Midwest, to try their hand at causing one of those infamous art world fits. But in a city where you can't rent a studio the size of a watercolor set for less than what Damien Hirst sells his smallest dot drawings (Sotheby's estimate: $60,000!) it might be time for those artists to head home. But, before you pack up and head back to the future art capitals of Richmond, Kansas City, Montreal, Mexico City, Berlin or Detroit (where I'm fairly sure you can rent an entire block for the cost of a Manhattan lunch), make sure you take something to remind you of the city you loved and left.

Brownstone Neighborhood

This print captures the crowded, hectic energy of a city constantly reinventing itself. By sweetbabu, $33.

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Three Brothers ORIGINAL

A more stoic and European cityscape, this painting nonetheless has the light hand of a city dweller always on the move. By artquirk, $70.

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Crowded - Original Art

What it must look like from a 24th floor window in Midtown. Vertigo and awe is a heady combination. By lisachow, $75.

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2312 Lyndale Ave., Original Watercolor

This watercolor slows down to notice the quirky beauty of a single door. By patchofsky, $30.

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City Buildings

I think of the Metropolitan Museum's rooftop when I look at this deceptively controlled painting by MaeveW. It has the landscape of the Upper West Side and the brash color scheme of a Miro I just saw down in the Modern wing. By MaeveW, $192.

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city building print

The cramped homeyness of this tenement hearkens to the New York my grandfather grew up in. By missbrigette, $20.

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large NYC print

Here the city is both contemporary and a fantasy of the past, a living city constantly reworking the myths of its artistic forebears. By matteart, $60.

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Little Boxes...Original Illustration

The subdued color and element of collage in this picture show you that even in the busiest of cities one can carve out a place of one's own. By michelemaule, $40.

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In the cit

In the end, New York has always been a winter town, so maybe stick around for one more year. You never know, the next sensation could be right around that crowded, loud, city corner you can't help but to love. By shelbyhealey, $20.

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Looking for more Art Finds? Try these links:

Art Showcase | Art Collectors' Gift Guide | Items tagged "original cityscape"

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Etsy Finds: Fine Art Picks by Jamieribisi

2008-07-09T09:37:00-05:00

Jamieribisi sent me an email last week with a whole list of incredible work she found in the Art Category on Etsy, and I immediately knew it would make a great Etsy Find. Jamie is an artist living in Manchester, Maine, and is currently working on opening an Artist Retreat and Bed & Breakfast — with workshops taught by local artists, as well as artists from all over the world! (As someone whose lifelong dream is to own a BnB and craft away all day on the porch, I am very jealous.) —Anda

The fine artists on Etsy are a very diverse group from all corners of the world. They create with gusto and that's very apparent in their work. I love browsing through the Art category and finding an artist that I have never seen before. Hopefully this crowd will introduce you to some new faces and new friends.

Rocks and Water - Original Landscape Painting on Canvas Teal Brown Grey

Hailing from Paris, France, Artstudio is a woman after my own heart. She paints powerful abstract pieces in a square format. Her color palette is masterful! By artstudio, $75.

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Fantasy Garden - Silk wallhanging

All the way from South Wales, UK, Liz Plummer has found a way to entrance me with her intricate fiber art. By lizplummer, $600.

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Between Aspirations and Limitations - Original Oil on Canvas

The colors and textures of this oil painting makes me want to drive down to Texas and wrap myself inside of it. I could live here. By tatjanaversaggi. $250.

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Ferntebrae 2 - Original Polaroid Image Transfer in 8x10 Archival Mat

TiffanyTeske is my twin sister's BEFF (Best Etsy Friends Forever) because they both have Polaroid chemicals running through their blood. The lost art of Polaroid Transfers will be lost no more when Tiffany makes her way from Alberta, Canada down to her old stomping ground of Maine to teach a workshop at our Retreat. I love meeting Etsians in real life! $35

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i see you AN ARCHIVAL PRINT

With her bold lines and colorful palette, coridantini was a knockout from the get-go. It's hard for me to pick one piece but today this one is my favorite. Also check out her other shop she runs from her home in Washington state. $20.

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ART PENDANT - No. 0840 Abstract Landscape

Mark McCune of HomeStudio in California makes beautiful and peaceful paintings of abstract landscapes. He and his wife mostly have tile pendants in their shop and he didn't have many paintings listed when I found him. I convoed him to ask if he would consider making one of his paintings as a wearable piece and he made me this pendant which I am proud to say I wear every day. He now has some listed so check them out and wear some art today! $12.

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Oxblood Red Bottle Cluster

Cyrusthepotter, from Minnesota, gives us an incredible example of the art of pottery. This has been one of my favorites for a long long time for the bold colors, loose brushwork, and the way that they are sculpted to nest together. $180.

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blue/green with white dots

I was searching Etsy for some encaustic paintings and came across San Francisco artist paulova's shop. Don't let her minimalist compositions fool you — there are layers upon layers of pigmented wax that create some very intriguing pieces. $240.

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Wave 3 - Original Painting

Lotsa's paintings make me so very happy! I will go up to Vancouver and do a little dance with her because that's how her paintings make me feel. $75.

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Success Stories: EarthArt

2008-04-21T13:33:00-05:00

You've seen those big sellers on Etsy who seem to be making sales left and right. You have to wonder how they've made it to where they are: can they actually be FOR REAL? What's their recipe for success? And just how do they do it?

This week's installment of our Etsy Success Stories features Laura Sue of EarthArt. Laura Sue lives and works in Tennessee and is best known on Etsy for her success in selling original artworks depicting earthy tones and her signature birds on a wire. She has been selling on Etsy for just under 2 years and is quickly approaching 650 sales in original works. She prides herself on being a full time artist and selling primarily through Etsy: keep reading to find out how she does it.

How did you first hear about Etsy, and what made you decide to open a shop on the site?
I first heard about Etsy from a fellow artist at an art show in Nashville. Her description of Etsy prompted me to explore the site and as soon as I did, it was love at first sight! ( I wish that was an intentional pun.) I joined immediately, but took a few weeks to study Etsy and all the nuances of this large pool of talented crafters and artists before I opened my own shop.

What do you think your key to success for selling on Etsy has been?
The support of my incredible husband, first and foremost. He's a luthier here on Etsy as well, by the handle of armorguitars – shameless plug. Establishing a style that was recognized — a sense of continuity. Finding that micro niche is difficult because most artists have so many ideas that we tend to want to create a little bit of everything. But if you find something that identifies with many people, it may be that it deserves your attention. I also feel that a high level of communication with your buyers is critical — I acknowledge purchase, send confirmation that art has been shipped and try my best to follow up with a thank you. I also renew and list new works as much as possible to keep visibility.

What are the best and most effective ways you have promoted your shop?
I promote through my customers' positive experiences. I don’t blog and I don’t advertise anywhere else — I truly feel these are both valid advertising tools, but I stay busy with my customers and their referrals. I give my buyers the best I can give — quality of art and non-failing customer service — and I include business cards. This has been very successful for me in return collectors and friends, co-workers, relatives, etc. of my buyers.

How do you handle such a large volume of sales in your shop? What systems have you created to manage the orders?
Being organized is very difficult for me, but without it, I know I would let someone down at some point. My process is as simple as possible: I utilize a folder system for each category — custom work, sales pending such as e-checks, and sales completed and ready to ship. As soon as I have shipped an order, the sales sheet is moved into a monthly main folder that is only for completed and shipped orders. I also include customer requests made along the way and the date shipped with delivery confirmation for each order stapled together for easy tracking if the mail is running slow for someone.

Are your orders mostly from repeat buyers or new buyers...what do you do to gain repeat buyers?
About half and half, and I am so thankful! I treat a buyer like I would like to be treated. I handle a small order in the same way I do a large order. It all comes from the same place.

How do you stay motivated? Does it come naturally?
Staying motivated is fortunately not a problem for me: I view motivation as a continuous goal. When I first began selling on Etsy, if I didn't have a sale in a while it would motivate me to fine tune. When I had begun to hit a steady sales level, I was motivated to establish my reputation. Now that I am at this stage, I am motivated to offer new designs for my customers.

Do you "Etsy" full time or do you have another job too?
I am so happy to say Etsy is my full time job now! I still work with a few designers and custom work unrelated to Etsy but the majority of my time is devoted to Etsy and I am on cloud nine about it!

If you "Etsy" full time, were you able to quit your day job due to your success selling on Etsy?
Etsy enabled me to concentrate on one online source of sales (just Etsy – yah!) and not worry about galleries and art shows like I did before. I was able to ease my stress of unsecured sales and devote my energy towards Etsy which has proved to be very dependable.

What is your favorite current Etsy Feature?
Conversations – I don't know if that's considered a feature, but without it I don't feel the connection between buyer and seller would be as personal. I do love the LAST feature on listing page, that's a helpful new feature.

What features do you use most on Etsy?
Aside from conversations, I utilize renew often.

What goals do you have for your Etsy shop 1 year from now?
I would like to broaden my array of original works to include sculptures that I have been experimenting with and more metal-based art works.

What piece of advice would you give to a new seller on Etsy who might be feeling discouraged? Do you have a quick tip or trick that you have learned over time you would be willing to share?
Oh man, this is where my instincts are to hug anyone with a creative spirit when they are feeling discouraged...but to truly help, I would say don't whine. Be proactive instead of reactive emotionally. If you have the goal set as selling your craft full time, treat it as a business. Nobody starts at the top, we all earn our stripes — take a step back and pay attention to what the public reacts to and you will find a happy medium in creating what you love and what will be a source of income.

Anything else you want to add?
I am honored to be a part of Etsy. I believe that Etsy is providing the world with more than accessibility to beautiful hand crafted items; I believe Etsy serves up a slice of hope and promise for those who work with their hands and hearts in a manufactured world.

Read our previous Etsy Success Stories. See some of Laura Sue's work and some of her top picks in the gallery below.