Top Etsy Shops

Wish

2011-11-22T05:54:00.000-08:00

I look at my daughter and strangely, as if time has frozen, it suddenly hits me: She’s three. When did she start looking like a little lady rather than a baby? Perhaps it’s right now that she’s begun looking so mature and grown up. Or perhaps it’s happened and I am just noticing it right now. I don’t want to miss anything new in her life; any new experiences both physical and emotional. I know one day she will become a woman with her own life to lead and the best I can do for her then is give her advice and support her dreams. As a parent all I really want is for her to follow her dreams and be happy. I know she will make mistakes and hopefully learn from them, have her heart broken probably more than once and be pressured into doing things she may not want to. All I can do is give her the love, encouragement and support to help her make right decisions that lead her to her Happy Ending. And by Happy Ending I really mean her beginning as a woman in love…

Yeah, I’ve been watching “Once Upon A Time” on CTV (Sundays @ 7!!!) and then AGAIN on Demand throughout the week in anticipation for the next episode. Our lives really are like a story written in a book. Maybe not with witches and fairy godmothers and trolls but one can definitely make parallels with the Fairy Tale creatures to the people in ones life. There’s always a wicked witch or some other form of evil trying to stop you from getting to your Happy Ending. One can also compare the evil creatures in Fairy Tales to real-life struggles and battles, whether emotional or physical, that one must overcome or conquer in order to keep the story going and reaching your goals. I guess that’s why the show appeals to me so much. But the underlying matter is that we all write our own books; we all have control over our own lives. Our outcome is based on the decisions we make and we have the power to change our lives; to make it what we want it to be. We have the power to write our own chapters of our lives. Things don’t always go as we plan but that’s why our book is written in pencil: we can erase the mistakes and make changes.

With all that said…………….. I have dedicated 2012 to me, myself and I. I am going to get my ass in gear and get that Teacher’s Aide job somewhere anywhere but hopefully close by. I am going to have my jewelry line take off into the sky and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere into the Universe. Oh yeah. It’s BIG time. No more screwing around. I am actually going to try this “schedule” thing. Maybe structure is what I really need. It will happen. And if you stick by to see it happen I don’t think you will be disappointed…

Here’s what’s been up with YOURS ONLY in the last few months via photos (I haven’t blogged in such a long time I could probably write a newspaper. Not just an article, the whole thing):

FALL 2011 COLLECTION.

SHOULDER DUSTERS now @ Fall Down Gallery (288 Bank St. Ottawa).

MEN’S ACCESSORIES now @ Elephant Shoes (1342 Bloor St. West Toronto).

GENUINE LEATHER TASSELS, beaded and wrapped, necklace or keychain.

I promise I will blog again soon. Besides, this is like therapy for me

Love, Weronika XOXO

Play time is Silly

2011-08-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

A Silly hobbie making Silly band earrings and adding a funky twist. Its fun for all ages young and old I too love to play with silly bands and this is how I play.

For all those who think this is just too silly here is your how to guide on playing with silly bands.

Step one embrace your inner child and its playful spirit.
Step two find your playful shapes and run with it. That it step one will lead you where you need to go. A fun and simple piece of rubber can be used to create some interesting designs.

Here is the "Sit up and beg doggie" I love the versatility of the rubber because I am able to move the parts of the earring into new and interesting positions. The doggie can aapear to be begging for a treat or going for walkies giving these pair of earrings a 2D design with a 3D vibes

Doggies Feathers Love rainbows and play time has just begone. You haven't seen nothing yet. I dont know where this love or working silly bands into my jewelery will take me but I am not very worry having too much fun and I am beginning to take the hint that Halloween is on its way as fall draws near. So cheer up and have fun with all the serious issues going on in the world it is always a good think to take a silly break and smile.

xoxo silly band fanatic

Two treasury feeling the Etsy love.

2011-07-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the feature what a great way to start the weekend. Spreading some love for two features this week a new treasury of item and my shop make the cut. Feeling like dancing in the office urges to hug random passers by. A great big hello and thanks goes out to curator Junquete for choosing our shop to be featured in not one but two treasuries 1 is below 2 is only a click away and for a bit of fun I am offering a range of soap sizes at affordable pricing. Feeling the love and its great. Getting a bit obsessed with this code genorator

'Getting Clean' by junquete

let Oh Canada Team soap scrub you clean

Lawn and Order - fr... soapstarcanada $6.00	Juicy Watermelon Ha... battysbath $5.00	Hockey Puck Soap (A... Maplecreeksoap $5.25
EXTRA LARGE 6 oz. L... TheSoapGallery $7.00	Smells Like A Chris... mythicalmatter... $14.99	5 Bars of Soap for ... purpleurchinso... $20.00
Coconut Swirl - Cre... bubbletub $5.50	Organic Facial Seru... MyOrganicChemi... $22.00	Dragon's Blood ... MisticalAcScen... $4.00
Summer Rain Manly M... tillydesigns $5.50	Naturally clearifyi... SalmonNaturals $5.00	All natural bath an... KlaraCoco $46.00
ON SALE Tomato Lea... carvelcountrys... $3.00	Bamboo charcoal col... sugarloafsoap $5.00	Fresh Laundry- glyc... alchemylifesty... $5.00
Mojito Vegan Glycer... TheMarulaTreeS... $4.00

Treasury tool

Treasury loving on Etsy

2011-07-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

I jumped head first into Etsy Treasury curatorships and so far so good. So far my experiment into this has been successful for a bunch of shops. So much so that I have to keep it constantly updated due to the sales of items I featured in Braains!, Madly hatty! and Wing ding!. So have a look check out the crazy fun featured shop and see come awesome creations before they get sold. Here is a peak at one of my treasuries and here is how I did this on blogger it took a how to search in google search which led me to these two places. A big thanks to: http://www.handmadeology.com/new-etsy-treasury-tool-quickly-add-any-etsy-treasury-to-your-blog-or-webpage/ and http://www.whalesharkwebsites.com/tools/treasury.php for the awesome simple how to without your help I would be so lost.

'Madly hatty' by SalmonNaturals

If you can also say " I go nuts for hats!!!!! Tis the season for some awesome in the sun or to dazzle at night. Outfit jazzing for any day or night. Just be you.... in a fabulous way (~_^).

English Hunt Fascin... FannyPannyDraw... $29.99	Futurama Alien Brai... triflewares $14.00	Vintage Skull of a ... PRRINT $8.00
SALE, Ital Princess... fiyamitch $15.99	Leopard Cocktail Ha... satanica $84.99	Brass & Blood mini ... VenusPain $45.00
Knitted Africa Hat tomodachihats $30.00	Silver studs and rh... janinebasil $135.00	Move Your Bloomin&#... BoringSidney $375.00
Fascinator Hair Acc... VoilaVeils $80.00	Hot Pink and Black ... flapperdashery $55.00	The Bow RESERVED fo... BoringSidney $82.50
Queen of the Mudwas... TheFaerieMarke... $750.00	Oliver the Owl Hat ComfyCozyBouti... $28.00	GREEN ALIEN MONSTER... NinisHandmades $27.00
Nautical Headband -... GreenTrunkDesi... $30.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Summer Plans?

2011-06-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost here! That means lots of craft shows and fairs! We at ClayCatShop have been getting ready for a couple of months now, creating, organizing, tagging, pricing, etc.

Do you participate in shows? how far in advance do you start making new things? Do you follow a guide? We had our first show of the season last week, and to our surprise it was a wonderful event even when it was a cold and rainy afternoon!
Next day we were super tired, but very happy and grateful.

Do you have any experiences or handy info you would like to share?

We got our booth banner and table runners printed with http://www.dfsprint.com/ they offer amazing quality graphics that will last a life time. You can wash them and iron them after each show so you always look your best! :)

Remember our Matryoshka doll pendants? Back when we won the Top Etsy Shop's contest we were introducing our line of original "Moody Matryoshkas" which are now a great seller, with custom orders and special requests! Bellow you can see our latest designs :)

As always all our creations are fully customizable. Just email us at info@claycatshop.com :)
Happy Creative week everybody! :) claycat.etsy.com

ClayCatShop
Adriana Ayala

Craft gold and silver metal wings recycled into awesome!

2011-05-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

In LOVE with these made two sets so far. Limited time offer on these from may 11, 2011 to may 30 2011.

Made with love my creations and I kinda want to keep it lol. I will be posting more pieces on my blog and in my Etsy shop.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/73896020/angel-power-new-trend-jewelery

Find this awesome crafting supply at this Etsy shop.

http://salmonnaturalshaircare.blogspot.com/
find out more about this hair accessory!

my favorite item from my Etsy shop that's why there is a limited time offer the clock is ticking till I get to keep it sale or no sale its a win win :}!

Lucky color oh Yes!

2011-05-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

MORE GOOD NEWS, Dear friends!

My SUNBURST Neon Orange and Pink Earrings (http://www.etsy.com/listing/72972490/sunburst-neon-orange-and-pink-hoop)

have been quite popular on etsy these days!!! They have been featured in TWO treasuries and added to a few people’s lists of Favorites. I guess they’ve been making quite the impact. I mean, they are orange and orange is always so impactFUL. This means orange is not only my fave but also my LUCKY color. Again, Thank You Etsy!!!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4db056d51e168eef773c9495/bright-lights-pink-and-orange-purple

Love, Weronika XOXO

Top Etsy Shops of April Contest Continues...

2011-04-29T13:58:00.000-07:00

Contest ends tomorrow! Invite all of your Etsy friends to join Top Etsy Shops and vote on their favorite shop. Press the 'like' button on all of the photos you think are fantastic! Good luck to all who have entered... Top Etsy Shop of April will be announced soon!

Giving Thanks!!

2011-04-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks Top Etsy Shops!!!

Posted on April 13, 2011 by yoursonlyjewelry

I have recently discovered that the Facebook Page, TOP ETSY SHOPS, has added Yours Only By Weronika to their list of LIKES! Thank you for the recognition. I think this is a big step considering the page has 4,809 fans and only a handful of other Likes.

Starting an Etsy shop has probably been the smartest idea for getting my collection out there. I’ve only had my website up since this past January and business has been slow, to be honest. This has made me feel a bit discouraged but i haven’t given up and I never will. I love what I do and to have the opportunity to stay at home with my beautiful daughter and create these pieces of jewelry that I’m so passionate about has definitely been a blessing. I feel so lucky to have the best of both worlds. I make things that I love; that I myself would wear and quite frequently do (advertising strategy). Sometimes things don’t come out the way I envisioned them so I either take them apart or re-invent them into pieces I am satisfied with. I get a slight case of separation anxiety when I do have to part with anything I’ve made, kinda like I get with my daughter, except for the permanent separation part. I really do need to purchase a whole Bead Store to make aaaall my ideas become a reality. But with time, they shall, and in the meantime I can come up with more and more ideas.

Every month on Facebook’s Top Etsy Shops, members get the chance to post a photo of something from their Etsy shop and if your photo gets the most “likes” you win Top Etsy Shop of the Month! So for April I have posted my Kid’s Springtime Fun Charm Bracelet and would like to request for everyone to go here: http://www.facebook.com/TopEtsyShops

and “like” my photo here: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=160288554031259&set=o.112188445467846&type=1&theater

Thanks for everyone’s support and hey, if we don’t succeed this month we shall try again next month!

Love, Weronika xoxo

My sexy find

2011-04-08T07:01:00.000-07:00

James Anthony Apparel, HOLLER!

by yoursonlyjewelry

Just yesterday, via Facebook, I purchased an awesome T-shirt dress that was up for grabs from my newly-found love, James Anthony.

I found this line of funky silk screen-printed clothing through Facebook (of course), on Top Etsy Shops, I think. Or was it Etsy’s Facebook page? Either way, we found eac hother via Facebook via Etsy. This guy finds black & white photos and images from the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries and transforms them into silk screen prints on sweaters, shirts, scarves, tanks, dresses and even kids clothing. Slightly eery but kick-ass nonetheless, he creates clothing that is totally the shit. My recent piece, and first of many purchases, depicts a Japanese woman’s head from 1901 in Bordeaux red on an ash grey T-shirt dress that can be worn slightly off one shoulder. And let me tell ya, I cannot WAIT to sport this thing, to dress it up or down, to chill in, to get all sexified in! It’s absolutely hot! When it gets to me I shall have a photo-op and post some pics. MUST check him out if you haven’t yet!

By the way, I got this for an awesome price, just $25.00 plus $3.50 shipping, and it was originally $54.00!!! HOW COULD I PASS UP A DEAL LIKE THAT???

Every so often, via Facebook, he has apparel UP FOR GRABS, all you have to do is be the first one to comment on the photo and it’s YOURS! Great deals!

http://www.facebook.com/JamesAnthonyApparel
http://www.etsy.com/shop/jamesanthony

Etsy Love!

2011-04-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

I HEART ETSY.COM!

by yoursonlyjewelry

On March 16th I made my first official sale on etsy! I was super excited and even nervous because I realized how UN-organized I was. But in the end I packed up my Kids Under The Sea charm bracelet in a nice black and white box, wrapped it in black ribbon with a sticker on top and shipped it off to California to a woman who bought it for her niece! That was, I must admit, my nicest piece to date. I will miss it. Thank you for the purchase!

This month, also through etsy.com, I was commissioned to do four charm bracelets for a woman in Alberta, Canada. She saw my Kids Key To My Heart charm bracelet and fell in love. So much that she asked me to create two for her two girls, one for herself and one for her mother. These bracelets are not just cute charms. To her, they represent her daughter’s cancer being in remission for two years. Her younger daughter, who is now just three, was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma, a cancer of the eye that starts in the retina and is the most common type of eye cancer in children. This Easter, they will be celebrating her two-year anniversary of the cancer being in remission. These bracelets are very special to them, and I couldn’t be more honored and thankful for having chosen ME to create these! All four will be slightly different, with the same theme, and I will be adding a yellow daisy to each one. This daisy represents Retinoblastoma, just like the pink ribbon represents Breast Cancer. I hope they love their bracelets as much as I loved making them. Words cannot say how thankful I am to this woman for choosing me to make these special bracelets for her. I wish I could hand-deliver them to her home and thank her in person. She is an inspirational mother who inspires me to be strong and enjoy life and be thankful for what I have. I am so happy that her daughter is well. Thank you, again and again!

Love, Weronika xoxo

Top Etsy Shop of March 2011

2011-04-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

The voting for Top Etsy Shop of March has been officially closed and we have a winner!

Facebook friends of NGY Art Studio clicked the 'Like' button and have chosen our newest winner!

Please visit the NGY Art Studio on Etsy!

What are you working on now?

2011-03-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

These cold days are wonderful days to stay indoors & do some creative work! :)
What are you working on, any interesting pieces? projects?

I just finished ClayCatShop's special edition Japanese-Matryoshka pendants, created specially to help Japan during these difficult times.

There are many artists & crafters doing the same, donating portions of the profits or all of it, to help.

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d8ad954c8776d9171a166e7/california-support-for-japan

If interested, these are some of the Etsy teams you could join:

http://www.etsy.com/teams/8446/artist-aid
http://www.etsy.com/teams/8489/etsians-for-disaster-relief
http://www.etsy.com/teams/8507/japan-relief-team

These are my Special Edition Japanese-Matryoshka pendants:

You can find them here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d8b871306756d91f05f604a/handmade-with-love-for-japan

We at Top Etsy Shops would love to hear about your projects and ideas! :)

Top Etsy Shops new contributor: Clay Cat Shop's Adriana Ayala

2011-03-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! My name is Adriana and I am the artist behind ClayCatShop. (aka http://www.etsy.com/shop/claycat or http://www.claycatshop.com)

After winning the contest for February's Top Etsy Shops
I was invited to contribute with this blog and share the world of Top Etsy Shops.

Since this is my first post, let me tell you a bit about me.

My love for clay started in Margarita Island (Venezuela), a little over 17 years ago. I had been working as a graphic designer for 4 years when I came across a box of plasticine and decided to play with it... little did I know that what started as a game was to become my life's passion and favorite art medium. To make a long story short I decided to take a sabbatical year to work on my art full time and I had one of the most fun years ever! My earlier work was very "island life" oriented and I went to sell my art in many beach shops around the island. My art is now all over the world, everyone was impressed and loved my clay illustrations of beautiful Margarita Island. When my sabbatical was up I returned to professional graphic design and that's what I did up until July '10, when I decided to formalize "ClayCatShop" and make it a company instead of my life-long hobby.

My home based studio "ClayCatShop" :)

Today I must say its been a great decision! I am happy and even though I still do graphic design here and there (I love to design and when a client comes to me in need of a corporate image I cant say no) I am working on my home based studio, spending time with my family and doing what I love the most: Playing with clay! =) I can do anything in this marvelous art medium, but above all I adore "painting" with clay!!!

Wishing you all a super creative week!

Adriana :)

Top Etsy Shops of March Contest Continues...

2011-03-10T06:36:00.000-08:00

The contest for Top Etsy Shop of March has begun! To enter: Visit the Top Etsy Shops Facebook Page and post a picture of an item from your shop to the Top Etsy Shops page. Get your friends to “like” the photo and at the end of the month, whichever photo has the most “likes” will win Top Etsy Shop of March! Good luck to all!

Top Etsy Shop of February

2011-03-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

The voting for Top Etsy Shop of February has been closed and we have a winner!

Seventy Three (73) Facebook friends clicked the 'Like' button and have chosen our newest winner!

Please visit the Clay Cat Shop on Etsy!

Top Etsy Shops of February Contest Continues...

2011-02-23T10:28:00.000-08:00

- Visit the Top Etsy Shops page on Facebook for a chance to win Top Etsy Shops of February 2011 -

February is the month of love and we love Etsy Sellers! Post a picture of an item from your shop to the Top Etsy Shops page and get your Facebook friends to “like” your photo. At the end of the month, whichever photo has the most “likes” will win Top Etsy Shop of February! Good luck to all!

Lady V taking over New to Etsy

2011-02-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Etsy shop my lady Weronika of : http://www.etsy.com/shop/YoursOnlyByWeronika

I want to give this beautiful mother a warm Etsy welcome to Etsy shop we love you xoxo. She a lover of all jewelry and I introduced her to my love of Etsy shop now she is addicted too oh yes mission accomplished.

http://yoursonlyjewelry.blog.com/

Dear Bracelet,

You are always so charming. You always know what colors go perfectly together. You alone stand out on my wrist like the sparkling jewel that you are. when grouped with others you adorn my arm like no man can ever do. You are the epitome of conversation when you join me on a girl’s night out. You make me smile. Your charm is like no other.

Love, Weronika xoxo

Brought to you by Leisha - Salmon Naturals a Etsy shop lover.

Cupcake in a Jar

2011-02-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

Call it ADD, OCD, or plain ol' neurotic, but something in me is always looking for something "new". New invitations... new crafts... new challenges.

As Valentine's Day approached, this need for NEW lingered in my thoughts endlessly. Although I have a toddler who is not enrolled in a daycare, preschool or anything of the sort, I technically have a "get out of buying something for the teacher in celebration of X holiday" card, but for some strange reason that is totally unexplainable to me, I LONG for these days when I can make such an item.

And so my hubby (bless his heart) was nice enough to let me make something for the girls in his office that he could distribute on Valentine's Day. After much research, I came up with something that met the "cute" and "practical" factor... Cupcakes in a Jar.

How did I make these delectable creations? Easy!

1. I bought and decorated mason jars from a local store.
2. I poured some Valentine's Day inspired sprinkles at the bottom of each jar
3. I baked a dozen chocolate cupcakes with added chocolate morsels in the mix (who said you could ever have enough chocolate?)
4. After they cooled, I removed the liners from the cupcakes and inserted them into the jars. (Verson B of these consisted of two CRUSHED cupcakes in the jar instead of one WHOLE one)
5. I decorated the top of each cupcake using my oh so fancy ziploc method (fill a ziploc bag with frosting and use scissors to cut the tip) and added Valentine's Day inspired sprinkles on the top....

6. And LAST but CERTAINLY not LEAST, I warned/threatened my hubby that if he let the jars slide on the truckride to work, (which would undoubetly result in the smearing of the frosting) HE would be the next thing I stuffed in a jar... LOL.

And that's it! I hope you enjoyed reading my blog and got an idea or two about what amazing thing YOU can create next!

PS. Cupcakes in a Jar are totally customizable to meet your needs and will be available for SALE via my Etsy Store (Seller Name: My Doodlebug Creations). I can add a photo tag, theme tag, etc. ANYTHING that you'd like!!!

Cost (as pictured) is $5 each with a minimum order of 4 please. Message me if you're interested :)

Doodlebug

It's a Whale of Party

2011-01-30T16:01:00.000-08:00

The last couple of months were cold and gloomy down in my part of the country so when I was approached with the theme of this party I was ready to dive in (no pun intended!) and dream of the warmer months that are coming our way.

My client wanted the theme of whales. This was my first time with this theme but after lots and lots of research I was able to come up with a couple of things. Below are the items she chose:

Centerpieces: These adorable whale centerpieces were made in two sizes (4 inches and 6 inches). I made them out of terra cotta pots (which I painted blue) and then wrapped balloon clusters on top to simulate water coming out of the blow hole.

Party Favors: I found these adorable whale cheese crackers which were placed in cellophane bags. The favor tags were designed to match the invitations she'd chosen for her event.

Invitations: I designed three different invitations for her (which did not include photos at her request.) If you'd like to check out the others check out my etsy store. Link is located below :)

And that’s all folks. I hope you enjoyed looking and got some great ideas for your next event. If you have any questions as to how I made any of these feel free to send me an email at mydoodlebugcreations@yahoo.com.

Stay tuned for my next blog: My son is turning 4 and we're have a...Spiderman Birthday!

Checkout my other stuff at:
Etsy.com Username: My doodlebug Creations
Facebook.com (pages) Username: Doodlebug Creations

Many Blessings for you and your family,

Doodlebug

Stephenie Lynch of Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design - Work in Progress 3.

2011-01-19T21:26:00.000-08:00

The beginnings of a set of custom Wedding Bands, the fine silver is cut to size and stamped with my initials.

The two bands are formed and ready for soldering.

After soldering...

After filing and forming on the mandrel. The rings are taken through various grits of emery paper to remove marks and scratches.

The two pieces of wave mokume gane cut.

After measuring the required length around the silver rings, the mokume gane is made into rings.

The mokume bands are soldered and ready for fitting to the silver rings. Scribe lines are marked into the silver rings to place the mokume band correctly.

After soldering the mokume to the silver rings, there is a lot of cleaning up to be done.

In these images, the difference can be seen in the appearance of the rings after this has happened.

The finished products listed for sale. If you are interested in placing a custom order for these rings please visit this link: http://www.etsy.com/listing/58386830/made-to-order-2-x-mokume-gane-wedding

COPYRIGHT - Stephenie Lynch - 2011.

Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design.

Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design - Double Rings - Work in Progress 2 - Mokume Gane Wedding Bands - Stephenie Lynch

2011-01-18T15:31:00.000-08:00

Custom Wedding Bands; for this set, the couple wanted different mokume gane bands. The fine silver for the inner ring is cut to size and stamped with my initials. Random pattern mokume gane is cut.

For the second ring a different method is used to create a unique pattern; by forming the outer stripey mokume band from a washer like beginning, the stripes become curves.

The Silver ring, ready for soldering and the mokume gane ready for fitting.

The first ring starting to be formed.

The fine silver cut to size and stamped, the stripey mokume starts to look like a sleeve or collar, the mokume needs regular heating to keep the metal pliable to enable continuous forming. After heating the stripes appear black and white, this is just on the surfaces and is temporarily caused by heating.

After making and soldering the silver band and the stripey mokume is turned into a tube shape. The mokume is then fitted to the outside of the silver ring to enable the double ring to be made.

The same for the first random mokume double ring, the outer is ready to be fitted.

After soldering the two bands together, the ring must now be filed down on the ends, taken through the many grits of emery paper and comfort fitted for both bands.

The two bands completed...

The finished products ready for sale....

Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design - Work in Progress Mokume Gane Wedding Bands - Stephenie Lynch

2011-01-18T14:26:00.000-08:00

Stephenie Lynch

The beginnings of a set of custom Wedding Bands, the fine silver inner ring is made to size, soldered and stamped with my initials.

The wave pattern mokume gane is cut and measured around the outside of the silver ring to fit perfectly.

The mokume gane outer band, ready for soldering.

The mokume gane after soldering, the bands are ready to be fitted together.

After soldering the two bands together, a lot of cleaning up is required for a flawless result.

The ring after flaring and cleaning up.

Almost ready...

Ring two in the set, this one is a very large one, again the fine silver band is made to size.

The ring after soldering the two bands together.

After more cleaning up and flaring..

The finished products, listed in my Etsy shop.

If you are interested in placing a custom order for these Wedding Bands, please visit the link below.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/65415171/made-to-order-2-x-mokume-gane-wedding

COPYRIGHT - Stephenie Lynch - 2011.
Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design.

Here I Go ...

2011-01-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

Here I Go ...

So once the thrill of being selected as a blog contributor wore off a bit and the reality of sunk in, I realized that I was faced with a tremendous problem- what in the world do I write about? Well, I’ve always heard people say it’s best to start at the beginning. So, here is my beginning…

I have been married to my best friend for six amazing years. I am the mother of a toddler boy who at most times is my life’s biggest joy (and at others he makes me want to pull my hair out! Be honest, I’m sure some of you mommies out there can relate). I work as a teacher at a local elementary and I was fortunate enough to be given the position of writing teacher- my oldest passion for as far back as I can remember.

Anywho, while I like to think that I’ve always had a creative side, it really wasn’t until the birth of my son that this “creative side” turned into a hobby. I discovered that I truly enjoyed creating things for children, for parties, and in essence for anything that was a celebration. I began making invitations, then that led to party decorations and now, well, here I am sharing ideas with you. My hopes are that through this blog, you can find ideas to create, decorate, simplify your life and of course to catch a glimpse of the wonderful things that Etsy has to offer on their site.

So here’s a bit of what I’ve done..

I recently was given the opportunity and thrill (since I don’t have girls I have to live vicariously through those who do) to decorate and plan my niece’s fifth birthday party. Her theme was The Little Mermaid.

Here are some shots of the invitations that I made for her party. (You can find these on my Etsy shop as well) and some more pictures of what we used to decorate the event.

1. Balloon Columns: I am fortunate that my hubby (who PS is my biggest cheerleader) works at a company that sells steel. Here, I was able to purchase some steel rods that were mounted on plates to serve as bases for balloon columns that can be used inside or outside. I made the balloon column by tying the end of two aqua balloons together, then the ends of two purple balloons together. I then twisted the four balloons together and twisted them around the rod until it was secure. I kept adding these bunches of four until I reached the top. At the top, I tied these great mylar balloons that I found at balloonmaniacs.com (that measured almost 3 feet) to finish it off.

2. Marshmallow Bowls: I found these bowls and rocks at the Dollar Tree for, well, a dollar. Then I used wooden skewers to assemble kabobs out of these yummy marshmallow flowers (which I bought already shaped and painted) and stuffed them into little cellophane bags. These were the party favors.

3. Tables: A look at what the long tables looked like with costume jewelry scattered about.

4. Marshmallow Treasure Chest: I used those delicious marshmallow kabobs once again and inserted them unto a foam block (from the Dollar Tree) which I then hotglued into an old treasure chest decoration that I had laying around the house.

5. Overall: A look at what the scene looked like from afar.

6. Fishies: My sister in law purchased some little goldfish at Petco and we placed them into little fishbowls that we’d found at, yep, you guessed it, the Dollar Tree. People took these little babies home as a memento of the event.

And that’s all folks. I hope you enjoyed looking and got some great ideas for your next event. If you have any questions as to how I made any of these feel free to send me an email at mydoodlebugcreations@yahoo.com.

Stay tuned for my next blog: A Whale of a Party!

Many Blessings for you and your family,

Doodlebug

Blog Contributor: my doodlebug creations

Stephenie Lynch of Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design

2011-01-17T19:51:00.000-08:00

Stephenie Lynch of Arcadia Rose Jewellery Design makes high quality Mokume Gane and Steampunk Jewellery, with a concentration on Rings, Pendants and Earrings. Mokume Gane, pronounced (moe’-koo-may gah’-nay). Means: "wood-grain metal" or "wood-eye metal". Traditionally made from many layers of Silver, Copper, Shibuichi, Shakudo and other metals, fused together, forged, rolled and worked to achieve patterns resembling wood grain. My interest in the technique is attributed to the infinite variations achieved, the production of these patterns parallels with the ephemerality of life. The Alchemy process that occurs in making Mokume Gane involves new crystals actually growing across the two surfaces to create the bond. These beautiful patterns are reminiscent of the patterns found in nature, it is in this way we are reminded of, and appreciate nature and perhaps our existence in it. My work explores expression of narrative and sentiment, in comparison with nature, through reflection of personal growth and appreciation of aesthetics.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Arcadia-Rose-Jewellery-Design-Stephenie-Lynch/126465390717822

http://www.kitandcaboodle.ning.com/profile/StephenieLynch

Sydney Etsy Team: http://www.etsy.com/teams/6754/sydney-etsy-team

Blog Contributor: Stephenie

Vintage Finds Of All Kinds

2011-01-15T13:58:00.000-08:00

Finding unique vintage items at a dirty flea market after hours in the sun is sometimes worth the trouble, but that isn't necessary anymore!

Just visit the EShipShop on Etsy.

One particularly unique vintage item listed is an Argus 1950's Camera with the Original Leather case.

This is a classic 'brick' Argus camera. 3.5 50MM Argus Coated Cintar. Sometimes called "the brick" for it's sturdy box shape which was a standard camera for anyone interested in photography. So classic, that it was produced consistently between 1939-1958 with few modifications.

Visit the EShipShop on Etsy: http://eshipshop.etsy.com/

Blog Contributor: EShipShop

Blog Contributor Search 2011

2011-01-15T13:21:00.000-08:00

Top Etsy Shops is looking for new blog contributors. If you are interested in joining the Top Etsy Shops Blog Team, please respond via e-mail: topetsyshops@hotmail.com

A link to your Etsy shop will be featured in your blog and would be great for increasing traffic. Blog content should be consistent. Whether you are interested in showcasing your shop's items, or having an Etsy Tips blog, we are looking for you!

Good luck!

Follow Top Etsy Shops on:

Twitter and Facebook

A Good Start to the New Year

2011-01-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

It's been a great start to the New Year and here are a few things new to my shop.

Hair band for braids and dreads...

... and funky earrings!
check out these awesome hair accessories at Etsy shop:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/sleepyking?ref=top_trail just loving the woodland owl wings!!!!

Blog Contributor: Leisha

Happy New Year Top Etsy Shoppers

2011-01-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

Lets start this year off with a bang for your buck great crafts and designers at Etsy are waiting for you to drop by their shop. I have been super busy designing hair accessories and jewelery and will be showcasing them later so keep and eye out!

Later I will be posting photos of all my latest works and great shops I pop into so that we can start of the year right. Coming up I have earring dangles, headband with pearl settings, pearl beaded chains, crosses with some pearls and snake charmer hair bun accents. Its looking to be a crazy New Year so keep shopping Etsy!

Blog Contributor: Leisha

Head bands! Yay!

2010-12-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

Head bands, girl! Funky, fun times.

I dont understand the concept of less is more, especially when it comes to colour.

So as I embark on today, the special day of my friend's birth, I wanted to say Happy Holidays to one and all. Continuing with the garland motif, I wanted to introduce my just created head band. Giving a shout out to follow head band enthusiasts at ...

Etsy shop: hblackberry

I was just loving the caption in this shop and the cuteness overload of the models so colorful so fabulous. I am a sucker for babies, bows, bonnets and bold design elements. Enjoy this shop.

Blog Contributor: Leisha

Crowning accessories

2010-12-22T03:23:00.000-08:00

This is the my first experience contributing to a blog like this. Where do I begin... well lets start from the top.
Hajimemashite ^_^ (japanese).

Oh the variety and amazing finds that I keep finding is like digging for gold coming up gems . It is awe inducing seeing the varieties of hair adornments offered on Etsyshops. I wanted one then another. I found myself dizzy accessory sensory overload. once I recovered I decided to write about it bring you my favorite pieces I need to have in my hair.

From early childhood I have had a love for hair adornments friend made fun of me called me a bear.This was due to the cute little bobbles wrapped around my hair giving me the look I desired with two puff ball shapes of either side of my hair but a bear I was not. I had to graduate to the next level and leave bobbles behind replacing them with flowers and head bands clips stick oh my.
what ever it may be I like most all Island girls love the flowers behind the ear taking me to my first Estyshops special mention

Etsy Shop: Chicallure

This shop knows how to draw a girl in taking me back to the days I would braid flowers to put in my hair making sure to check for bugs. Well no bugs here and this is just my style which would make a nice addition to earrings I would wear.

Blog Contributor: Leisha

Top Etsy Shops - New Blogger Search

2010-12-18T15:33:00.000-08:00

Top Etsy Shops is looking for a new blog contributor. If you are interested in joining the Top Etsy Shops blog team, please respond to this thread with a topic for your blog contribution. We will then contact you directly. A link to your Etsy shop would be featured in your blog and would be great for increasing traffic. Good luck!

Odd Holiday Items from Etsy

2010-12-06T12:03:00.000-08:00

Unique, unusual, goofy and just plain wacky gift ideas from Etsy. Please submit any unusual holiday items that you may come across on Etsy!

Facebook Ornament

Know someone obsessed with Facebook? This would make a great addition to their -- or your -- Christmas tree.

This 3-inch square textured ornament is hand-cut and assembled to look like the Facebook icon. Each is made of three layers of craft foam; a ribbon is looped at the top to make hanging the ornament easy-peasy.

Radley, Christmas Monster Sculpture

it was like a dream come true!! you'll never believe who radley met at the mall!!
----------------------------------
acrylic paintd polymer clay, approx 4 inches tall.

Black Friday Sales on Etsy

2010-11-26T14:14:00.000-08:00

Today marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season.
'Tis the Season!

Enjoy All of the Hottest Deals on Etsy this Black Friday!

(Click "Coupon Code" link to be redirected)

CODE: BLACKFRIDAY (35% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: BFCM2010 (25% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: BF25OFF (25% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: 2GET20 (20% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: novten20off (20% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: GOBBLEGOBBLE (20% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: BLKFRI15 (15% Off Total Purchase)

CODE: PINKGLITTER10 (10% Off Total Purchase)

Top Etsy Shop of Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

(Click image to be redirected to featured Top Etsy Shop)

The Sweet Lollipop Shop, where quirky and fun are guaranteed and smiles are mandatory.

They specialize in custom crystal barley hard candy lollipops & bite size jewel candies in hundreds of styles, flavors & themes, including all natural and vegan friendly selections.

Top Etsy Shops of August - Winner #4

2010-09-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Do you want to virtually try on these hats? You can by convoing the shop and uploading your picture. She will edit your photo "wearing the hat". Try before you buy and take the guesswork out of choosing your right color. Cut your shopping time in half with your helpful color palette. Are you a winter, spring, summer, or autumn?

Hats are the most important accessories to protect your head from the sun and cold. Customize these to meet your personal style. Guaranteed for softness, comfort, and fit. Exchange/money back guarantee. She adjusts hats if they do not fit properly.

Top Etsy Shops of August - Winner #3

2010-09-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of August - Winner #2

2010-09-06T13:38:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of August - Winner #1

2010-09-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Message from SuchesCrafts:

I am thrilled to have been chosen for the Top Etsy Shop.

I suppose the one thing that I'm most proud of is my and honesty. If I can't give the best quality of work or feel I can't do a particular project I have no problem telling customers that I can't do it. I have referred customers to fellow Esty Sellers in the past and I have had that customer come back to me for a different project because they trust me. There's enough business out there for all of us, so be fair and honest with those you deal with.

Thanks again, Patti

Top Etsy Shops: July Second Winner Announcement

2010-07-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you for joining one of the most exclusive Etsy gathering places! We would like to offer you the chance to win in the Top Etsy Shops drawing!

Top Etsy Shops is the newest, most interactive way for Etsy sellers to share ideas and promote their items. Five (5) Etsy shops are featured each month and YOUR SHOP has the chance to be featured! See details below on how to enter.

Featured Top Etsy Shops enjoy increased traffic to their shop and a link to their shop is placed on the Top Etsy Shops blogsite for the entire month!

SECOND ROUND: To enter for Top Etsy Shops of July, please submit a comment on this posting. Include a link to your Etsy Shop. Good luck to all!

Thanks again for joining Top Etsy Shops and stay tuned for the Featured Shops to be announced!

Top Etsy Shops: July First Winner Announcement

2010-07-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

Visit the Top Etsy Shops Facebook Page for a Chance to Win the First Top Etsy Shop of July Position!

To enter: press the 'like' button for the most recent Top Etsy Shops status labeled "FIRST ROUND".

Thank you and Good luck to all!

Today's Marketing Tip

2010-06-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

Make a Commercial for your Etsy Shop! Submit your Commercial to Top Etsy Shops and it will be posted on the blog!

Top Etsy Shops of May - Winner #3

2010-05-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of May - Winner #2

2010-05-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of May - Winner #1

2010-05-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops Products - Spring Sale!

2010-04-10T23:56:00.001-07:00

Top Etsy Shops of April - Winner #5

2010-04-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of April - Winner #4

2010-04-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of April - Winner #3

2010-04-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of April - Winner #2

2010-04-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

(Click Image to be Redirected to Featured Etsy Shop)

Top Etsy Shops of April - Winner #1

2010-04-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

(Click Image To Be Redirected To Featured Etsy Shop)

Join Top Etsy Shops Facebook Group

2010-03-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

Top Etsy Shops on Facebook

(Click the image above to be redirected to the site.)

Join the conversation!

Thousands of Etsy Sellers have joined and are sharing tips and helpful information! Top Etsy Shops on Facebook may have the answer to your questions!

Top Etsy Shops: April Announcement!

2010-03-22T22:59:00.000-07:00

Thank you for joining Top Etsy Shops! Top Etsy Shops is an easy, interactive way for Etsy sellers to share tips and ideas. Also, the group features five (5) Etsy shops each month. Your Etsy shop could be featured for April!

Featured Top Etsy Shops enjoy increased traffic to their shop and a link to their shop on the Top Etsy Shops website for the entire month of April.

To become an April Top Etsy Shop, you must complete the following:

1. Share the Top Etsy Shops website link (http://topetsyshops.blogspot.com) with all followers of your social networking sites; Facebook, Twitter, etc.

2. Add the Top Etsy Shops link to your blog site -or- add the Top Etsy Shops link to your Etsy Shop Announcements.

When you have completed the two requirements above, please post a Comment to this post that you have shared the link with your friends and added the link to your site, and you will be entered to be an April Top Etsy Shop!

Thanks again for joining Top Etsy Shops and stay tuned for the April Shops to be announced!

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Top Etsy Shops!

2010-03-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

Etsy Fun : Polymer Clay Bunny

2010-03-11T23:28:00.000-08:00

Another cute project to create for your shop. These clay bunnies really catch the eye, and can draw attention to your shop. This is just to show how easy it is to create something that can bring an instant smile on your friend's face or someone's you care about.

Cute Etsy Comic Strip

2010-03-10T04:22:00.000-08:00

Social Media Cheat Sheet

2010-03-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Marketing your Etsy shop will be much easier after reading The CMO's Guide to The Social Landscape. Pinpoint what you are looking to gain from social networking sites, and focus your energy in the right places.

Etsy Shop Tips : Marketing with YouTube

2010-03-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

Thanks again to all of you who entered the Top Etsy Shops drawing for March! There were over 200 entries! All winners are linked below.

Also, the featured video today gives you five tips for uploading your Etsy videos to YouTube. Today's tip focuses on marketing your Etsy shop. YouTube is a great marketing tool. Buyers would love to see you actually creating your products, or explaining its many uses. The old slideshow of pictures is no longer cutting it! Watch and learn!

Top Etsy Shops of March - Winner #5

2010-03-01T19:35:00.000-08:00

Top Etsy Shops of March - Winner #4

2010-03-01T16:05:00.001-08:00

Top Etsy Shops of March - Winner #3

2010-03-01T14:48:00.001-08:00

Top Etsy Shops of March - Winner #2

2010-03-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

Top Etsy Shops of March - Winner #1

2010-03-01T11:19:00.000-08:00

Etsy Shop Ideas : Origami Paper Box

2010-02-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

The extraordinary Mary Andrews shows you how to make a paper box (with lid) in a few simple steps. Add your Etsy shop's site to the decoration and these boxes are a simple insert to include in your shipment with your sold Etsy item. Another cute little trinket for the buyer to remember your shop by. They may be able to use this to package presents during birthdays and holidays, spruce up the paperclip and rubber band collections littering their desk, or put under wraps all those little tchotchkes they've been hoarding, and all while advertising your shop for you!

Top Etsy Shops Products

2010-02-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

Etsy Shop Ideas : How To Make Buttons

2010-02-25T13:03:00.000-08:00

Buttons are a great way to make extra income on Etsy. People are always looking for clever sayings and odd pictures on things, such as buttons, that they can't find at their local Wal-Mart. Anda from the Etsy Labs walks us through making pinback buttons. Brought to you by the good people of the Etsy Labs.

Etsy Shop Ideas : Upcycled Business Cards & Bookmarks

2010-02-24T20:58:00.000-08:00

Looking for a great idea for something new to spice up your shop? Here is a fun and easy project upcycling business cards and bookmarks.

Etsy Shop Ideas : Handmade Journals

2010-02-24T20:49:00.000-08:00

Finding the perfect product for your shop if the first step to becoming a Top Etsy Shop! If you are interested in creating handmade journals, the information below is beyond helpful. The different types of homemade journals depend on their binding, such as string binding, glue binding or screw binding. Learn about the different types of journals with tips from a craft specialist in this free video about how to make journals.

Etsy Shop Tips : Custom Logo Package

2010-02-23T19:55:00.000-08:00

Photoshop isn't your thing? Purchase a Custom Logo Package from a Professional. High End Design! Not just clip art.

Etsy has many custom logo packages available.

Click here for the cheapest package on Etsy!

You may just want to update your store image with a new seasonal banner. A new banner and avatar will enhance the image of your store and increase sales.

Put your shop on the leading edge! This is just what you business needs, its own identity.

Included Designs :

Shop Banner
Vacation Banner
Sale Banner
Reserved Listing Picture
Thank You Button
Avatar
Business Card
Custom Label Design

Click on the image below.

Join the Top Etsy Shops Facebook Group

2010-02-23T19:47:00.000-08:00

All Top Shops on Etsy.com can be found here! Join the "Top Etsy Shops" group on Facebook and share the link to blog to all of your friends to be featured.

Click Here For Your Shop To Be Featured

Etsy Shop Ideas : Handmade Scarves

2010-02-23T01:31:00.000-08:00

Didn't think you could wear those T shirts in the winter....well think again. This week special guest Megan Nicolay from Generation-T shows us how to whip up some new scarves using last seasons old clothes.

Etsy Shop Ideas : Fun Package Enclosures

2010-02-23T01:07:00.000-08:00

Tutorial teaching how to make an easy, fast napkin rose.

Etsy Shop Tips : Editing Your Photos in Picasa

2010-02-22T21:49:00.000-08:00

Pictures for Etsy look a little blah? This is a great tutorial on how to add a little extra "oomph" to your product photos for Etsy! Picasa is a great tool that interfaces with Google's Blogger and Picasa Web Albums creating a seamless work flow. Following the steps in this tutorial will save you time and will keep you from having to spend that hard earned cash on the pricier programs!

The first tutorial in a series of three that goes step by step in editing your product photos for the Etsy Marketplace. This video discusses how to use the Google application Picasa for optimal photo quality

Etsy Shop Ideas : Handmade Wallets

2010-02-22T00:52:00.000-08:00

Our Mighty Wallet™ has a writable surface that you can draw on to personalize your wallet or give someone a special one of a kind gift. Use pens, Sharpies, highlighters, colored markers, ink, paint, add stickers, rubber stamps, use stencils, whatever gets your creative juices flowing.

Etsy Shop Ideas : Handmade Soap

2010-02-22T00:43:00.000-08:00

Gwen Neucall of BeyondThePicketFence is not just a soaper, she's her own scientist and R&D lab.

Animation by Julia Pott, Music by Lineland

Join the Top Etsy Shops Facebook Group

2010-02-22T00:23:00.000-08:00

Click here for a chance to be one of the Top Etsy Shops!