FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-POKEDYOUREYEOUT

Hi everyone! I want to thank all of your for your patience during the past few weeks...now I am back up and running! I hope everyone is doing well! I am excited to share this shop and an awesome giveaway! As an Etsy seller, I learned quickly that it is very important for your shop to look clean and professional. PokedYourEyeOut is here to help you with that! In addition to beautiful fine art prints, the shop has a number of awesome shop packages that can get you off to a great start, or just help you to update the look of your shop. Here are some of my favorite items from PokedYourEyeOut:
Art Print-Illustration-Sasquatch VS Octopus (I don't even know what to say. This is one of the most awesome things I have ever seen!)

Giclee-Urbania Series-Episode Seven (I love this. It's eerily beautiful.) 

Shop Header/Branding Package-Exclusive-Whale (This is so cute. I wish it fit with my shop because I would use it!

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/pokedyoureyeout
2. Description of what you make: I design and create premade and custom branding packages for sellers to use in their Etsy shop. I am also more than happy to design custom headers, avatars, logos and ads.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite package is always my most recent one, of course, but I like this one a lot: http://www.etsy.com/listing/50223372/shop-headerbranding-package-deluxe. I have been taking photographs of flowers and carry my camera with me everywhere I go. I love manipulating the photos and adding many layers of watercolour, scratches...whatever makes the image come alive.
4. How you learned your craft: I am a graphic designer by trade, though I have a degree in Fine Art. Prior to my career as a designer, I had been selling my paintings internationally for years. I made the switch to graphic design because I needed a more predictable income, but also because it was the perfect fit for me. I love typography and have almost always included it in my painted and installation work. The natural progression of that was graphic design.
5. Years you have been creating: I have five years of professional design and 20 years of fine art and illustration experience.
6. Item you would like to give away: I would like to give away the 'standard' package of the winner's choice. There are several to choose from. The winner will need to scroll through my shop and choose from the numerous packages listed. The standard packages include:
760 x 100 Etsy shop header
75 x 75 Etsy avatar (two versions: regular and 'sale')
500 x 500 "custom listing" image
500 x 500 "thank you" image
All items will be customized with the winner's Etsy shop name in the shown font face.

In order to win this awesome package, you must do ALL of the following things:

• Become a follower of this blog.
• Visit PokedYourEyeOut Etsy Shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/pokedyoureyeout
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway and retweet @alteredbeauty. Post that you tweeted in a separate comment here. (1 extra entry.)
• Follow Altered Beauty on Twitter. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Fan Altered Beauty on Facebook. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here. (3 extra entries.)
• Make a purchase from either PokedYourEyeOut or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here. (5 extra entries per purchase.)

That's it! I will select a winner via a random number generator next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, you will be contacted via the email address you provide in your comment. If you fail to respond to the email within 7 days, I will select another winner. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about how PokedYourEyeOut can help you make your Etsy shop fantastic!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-SEWNINSPIRATIONS

Hi everyone! I am excited to be bringing you an awesome giveaway and feature from Etsy seller SewnInspirations! I love pillows, and this shop is full of unique, one of a kind creations. Plus, you can get custom pillows! Check out an fabric examples here! There are pillows for all ages in this shop! Here are some of my favorites:
Modern Brown Teal Decorative Pillow (Such an awesome combination of colors and patterns! I love it!)

Exotic Brown Decorative Throw Pillow (Again, love the colors on this one!)

Modern Black and White Decorative Throw Pillow (Simple and elegant. I love it.)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/SewnInspirations
2. Description of what you make: I design and sew decorative throw pillows in small quantities to ensure a quality one of a kind pillow. I also have children and teen lines including Tooth Fairy Pillows and Sleep-n-Stash Pillows.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite creation is this decorative pillow because it took 4 fabrics to create it, which were purchased at different stores and on different days. I think it came together beautifully.
4. How you learned your craft: I learned how to create pillows out of frustration. I wanted to add decorative pillows to my sofa but couldn't find what I was looking for in the stores. Everything I found was the wrong color or uninteresting, so I decided to make my own.
5. Years you have been creating: I have been happily designing for 6 years now.
6. Item you would like to give away: Giveaway is one 12" Sleep-n-Stash Pillow, the pillow with the "secret" pocket. Open to US Residents.

In order to win this super cute pillow, you must do ALL of the following things:

• Become a follower of this blog.
• Visit SewnInspirations Etsy Shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/SewnInspirations
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway and retweet @alteredbeauty. Post that you tweeted in a separate comment here. (1 extra entry.)
• Follow Altered Beauty on Twitter. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Fan Altered Beauty on Facebook. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here. (3 extra entries.)
• Make a purchase from either SewnInspirations or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here. (5 extra entries per purchase.)

That's it! I will select a winner via a random number generator next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. If you fail to respond to the email within 7 days, I will select another winner. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about SewnInspirations awesome pillows and  creations!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-EDGEINSPIRED

Hey everyone! I am so excited to be bringing you a giveaway from today's featured seller EdgeInspired! I will have instructions on how to enter at the end of the feature. I really love everything about this shop! They have been on the front page of Etsy, and if you take a look at their shop you will soon realize that it was well deserved! The photos are excellent, the owners are extremely nice, and most importantly, their products are both unique and lovely. They all take me back to when I was a little girl, walking along the beach with my Dad on cold, overcast mornings. I used to love finding little treasures on the beach, and EdgeInspired's shop takes treasures just like those I used to find and turns them into beautiful art. Here are my favorite items:

Personalized Wedding, Occasion Favors Set of 12 (I really wish this shop had existed when I got married! I would have loved to have these there.)

Hanging Gifts-Stone (This is just lovely. I love beach stones...)

Original Mixed Media Collage-Remnants (This reminds me of walking along the beach on a gloomy June morning...)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/EdgeInspired
2. Description of what you make: We make wooden hanging gift charms, original art collages and handmade gift tags. Beautiful curiosities inspired by the sea. Our pieces are fashioned from reclaimed materials, treasures collected over time and objects found from our journeys to the water's edge.
3. Your favorite creation: This is a tricky one! We love all the items we make. Each one is made with love and care. I would probably say our wooden hanging gift charms as they are new in our shop and we are really enjoying making them. We have so many ideas for new items our heads are spinning!
4. How you learned your craft: My name is Charlotte. Ever since I was a small girl I have loved foraging for forgotten treasures and turning them into beautiful things. I spent 3 years at Art College many years ago and learnt so much! I love recycling forgotten things and selecting 'exactly the right treasures' when creating my pieces.
5. Years you've been creating: My partner and I have always been lucky enough to live by the sea and have long been inspired by the ocean. We have recently discovered Etsy and decided to combine our creative talents and open our shop 'EdgeInspired' We get so much pleasure from creating our items and are so happy to be able to share them with you.
6. Item you'll be giving away: A set of our Seven Seas Gift Tags!

In order to win this absolutely beautiful set of gift tags, you must do ALL of the following things:

• Become a follower of this blog.
• Visit EdgeInspired's Etsy Shop at http://www.etsy.com/people/EdgeInspired/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway and retweet @alteredbeauty. Post that you tweeted in a separate comment here. (1 extra entry.)
• Follow Altered Beauty on Twitter. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Fan Altered Beauty on Facebook. Post your username here. (1 extra entry.)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here. (3 extra entries.)
• Make a purchase from either EdgeInspired or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here. (5 extra entries per purchase.)

That's it! I will select a winner via a random number generator next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. If you fail to respond to the email within 7 days, I will select another winner. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about EdgeInspired's beautiful creations!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER-ALLUREBYU

Happy Friday everyone! Today I am featuring an awesome shop called AllureByU. She makes awesome nature inspired jewelry and accessories! I am in love with a few of her pieces and may have to make a future purchase! Here are some of my favorites:
Ultimate Nautical Steampunk Vintage Marine Diving Brass Helmet Necklace-Under The Sea (I love everything Steampunk, and I particularly love diving helmets! This is pure awesomeness!!!)

Three Dimensional Miniature Brass Vintage Style Marine Sailor Lamp with Antique Brass Seahorse Necklace - Ultimate Nautical Steampunk, Ocean, Ship (Another nautical item...love this too! Very unique!)

Antique Brass Honey Bee Lariat Necklace - Lovely Filigree Flower with Yellow Pearls and Antiqued Brass Honey Bees (This is gorgeous...I love bees and I love lariats, so this is a win!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://allurebyu.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: I make jewelry and accessories which are mainly nature inspired.
3. Your favorite creation: I love every single piece of my own creation as they are all made with lots love and care. I want each piece to be beautiful so that its owner will feel beautiful too.
4. How you learned your craft: I got started in the designing business by accident. I got inspired by all the other crafters and artists while shopping and browsing through the internet. When I saw their creations on their websites and in their shops, I thought to myself how beautiful their creations are and how nice if I could create some of these myself. That train of thought ended with the determination to make my own beautiful creations! I learned my craft through self training, reading crafts books etc.
5. Years you have been creating: About one year.

Do yourself a favor and take a look at her shop...you will find something you love!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER ROKDARBIU2 AND A SPECIAL DISCOUNT OFFER

I am so excited to be back here and bringing you more awesome Etsy shops! I recently found rokdarbi4u2 and I love her work! She makes beautiful fabric flower creations, beautiful felted jewelry and more! I think what I like the most is the fact that she uses so many different rich colors. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

Multi-Color Satin-Organza Pin/ Brooch/ Hairclip (This is so pretty...I love all of the different colors and patterns!)

Corals Needle Felted Pin/Brooch (Again, I love the colors. This is so fun to look at!)

Pale Green/Pink Flower Brooch/ Pin/ Hairclip (This is one of my favorite color combinations...love it!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.rokdarbi4u2.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: First I thought about my Etsy shop as a place where people could buy wet felted and needle felted jewelry. Later there appeared fabric flowers from my summer collection and now I plan to add more creations-a combination of crocheted and felted elements with beads, fabric and driftwood.
3. Your favorite creation: I can’t say which item from my shop is my favorite, I like them all.
4. How you learned your craft: I discovered felting during the celebrations of the Riga City Days two years ago. It was an event organized by MUSEUM OF DECORATIVE ARTS AND DESIGN ( DEKORATĪVĀS MĀKSLAS UN DIZAINA MUZEJS) when everyone could try to make something by their own hands using needle felting. I was fascinated with that and began to look for information on the Internet and discovered wet felting technics and, then, Etsy!
5. Years you have been creating: I remember myself with a needle and thread since I was seven years old. I must say thanks to my grandmother who taught me how to knit, sew and embroider. I like a combination of felted wool and beads and unusual combinations of materials.

If you love her work as much as I do, you're in luck! Now through the end of July, rokdarbi4u2 is offering my readers a 20 percent discount on any item! If you want to make a purchase, first send her a convo through her page and include the code word LIGO and listing title. She will reserve the listing for you with a revised price and send a convo with confirmation within two days. Then you can proceed with your purchase.

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER, SALE AND GIVEAWAY-BEAUTIFUL SCHLOPP

Beautiful Schlopp I picked this shop because I recently acquired one of her beautiful necklaces and was thrilled with it! Her work is creative, beautiful, and meticulous. This is what I got, and I can honestly say it is now one of my favorite pieces of jewelry. If you love glass as I do, please take a look at her shop. Her prices are EXTREMELY reasonable considering the amount of time she spends on each piece and the craftsmanship that is evident in her work. Here are some more of my favorite items (I am only listing three, but really I could put her whole shop on here.)
Cream Cherry Blossom Branch Pendant (I love all of her cherry blossom pieces!)

Red Flower on White Iridized Pendant (This is so simple and elegant!) 

Silver Swirls Dichroic Pendant (I have a huge affinity for spirals, and I love how this piece incorporates them!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: www.etsy.com/shop/beautifulschlopp
2. Description of what you make: I make Beautiful Schlopp- casual, fun, unique, sloppy yet beautiful, one-of-a-kind items for everyday wear or use! I'm a glass artist who works in all aspects of glass- stained glass, fusing, borosilicate, etc.
3. Your favorite creation: My newest obsession are my Cherry Blossom pieces. Though they take 2-3 firings in the kiln over several days to create, I am completely enamored with and so very proud of them and the fact that I was able to produce the picture I had in my head.
4. How you learned your craft: My mother has been doing stained glass for the better part of 10 years. She had actually invited me to take her first beginning stained glass class with her. I declined thinking that it was an 'old lady hobby'. She persevered and I was able to watch as she learned and created new pieces. Her work area at home kept growing from just the kitchen table to the unused dining room to the full working studio with room to teach classes that my husband and brother-in-law built out for her in her basement. To make a long story short, she bought the glass store in our area and I went to work for her after having my 2nd child. I still had yet to even touch art glass, but immediately fell in love with it and jumped right in (not literally, of course). I caught on very quickly being a fast learner and having the opportunity to work with it full time (and get paid as well!). We started stocking fusing supplies and introduced our community to that glass art technique. Unfortunately, we have since had to close the store (darn economy), but we both now have a full studio at home. I work out of my basement and have the means to work cold, warm, and hot glass (stained glass, fusing, and lampworking).
5. Years you have been creating: I just passed 2 years working with glass this September.
6. Description of the item you are giving away: A White Cherry Blossom Branch Pendant. This stunning pendant spent a lot of time in the kiln prior to completion. I started by hand painting the branches on a white piece of glass. They were permanently fired on at 1500* F while pink frit was allowed to ball up into the blossoms at the same temperature. Once the glass annealed and cooled, the glass was put back in the kiln and the blossoms were attached to the pendant at 1300* F allowing them to keep their texture. All this time and heat produced a beautiful adaptation of a cherry blossom branch created in glass! Through the new year, I have a holiday sale running- 10% off and order over $10! Customers can either wait for an adjusted invoice prior to paying or complete payment and receive a refund through PayPal. But I'd also like to extend an offer to your readers. They can receive an extra $5 off any purchase over $20 by leaving the code "1ST GIVEAWAY" in the notes to seller.

In order to win this great necklace (with free shipping worldwide) you must do the following things. 

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Beautiful Schlopp's Etsy shop www.etsy.com/shop/beautifulschlopp
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Beautiful Schlopp or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about Beautiful Schlopp's wonderful jewelry! Take advantage of her sale!!!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-GEMINI 5757

Gemini 5757
I picked this shop because I am in the same fabulous BNR as her and so I wanted to give her wonderful shop some love! She opened in October and has some beautiful things, so be sure and take a look! Here are my favorite items.
Red and Orange Twist Ring (This has always been one of my favorite color combinations!)

Amigurumi Cupcake (I am in love with this...)

Gothic Beaded Net Choker Necklace (I would absolutely wear this! I love it!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: gemini5757.etsy.com
2. Description of what you make: Whatever crosses my mind to make at random points in the day...especially in the shower, while walking my huge and wonderful dog, Molly, the gigantic king Shepard, or during slow time at work. Mostly anything involving beads and wire, though I do crochet too. I really want to learn how to do tatting, also. I'll try just about anything.
3. Your favorite creation: I really like my beaded flowers, they're so versatile and pretty. When I still had long hair, I'd wear them in my hair all the time.
4. How you learned your craft: Books, friends, made some stuff up, the internet...a variety of sources.
5. Years you have been creating: I'm pretty sure I came out of the womb with a pair of safety scissors in my hand! I was a really crafty kid, and stayed that way. I opened my shop on Etsy in the beginning of October 2009.
6. Description of the item you are giving away: I'm offering up one of my simple bands in the winners choice of color(s) and size! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=32212006
In order to win this prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Gemini 5757's Etsy shop http://gemini5757.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Gemini 5757 or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about Gemini 5757's cool beaded jewelry and crafts!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-DARK FAIRY TREASURES

Dark Fairy Treasures
I picked this shop because every item is infused with a love of nature and mother earth. Also, each item is original, which I think is very cool. If you purchase it, you know that you won't see someone else wearing it! Here are my favorite items.
Ice Frost Necklace (This would be so awesome for the holidays! The bead work on the snowflake is beautiful!

Ice Frost Bracelet (Again, amazing for the holidays and beautiful bead work. I would love to own this one!)
Copper Bronze 4 Way Spiral Necklace ( I love that this necklace can be worn four different ways! So cool! It's gorgeous too!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: www.darkfairytreasures.etsy.com
2. Description of what you make: I make unique one of a kind pieces of jewellery , often with a nature theme, mainly using sterling silver, gemstones, seed beads, and polymer clay. Each piece is made with a love, and I get very attached to them. I also make handmade cards, and bespoke wedding stationary.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite creations have got to be My Mighty Oak Necklace and my Green Man Necklace.
4. How you learned your craft: I have been crafting since childhood. My mother taught me many crafts such as embroidery, sewing etc. and I was tumbling stones and making basic jewellery at the age of ten. I got into beading in a big way about two years ago, and haven't stopped since.
5. Years you have been creating: I suppose you could say I am a lifetime crafter. My friends call me a 'Blue Peter' girl, in that I can make all sorts of things out of what they call junk!
6. Description of the item you are giving away: My giveaway will be anything in my shop up to fifteen dollars, with free post. The winner can make their choice.
In order to win this awesome prize of your choice, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Dark Fairy Treasures Etsy shop www.darkfairytreasures.etsy.com
  
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Dark Fairy Treasures or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00am. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about the amazing work of Dark Fairy Treasures.

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-STEFFANIE CHAPELL

Steffanie Chapell
I picked this shop because I love headbands and hair clips. I know that these are intended mainly for little girls, but I want some for myself because they are so fun! I also love tutus, so this shop is eye candy for me. Here are my favorite items.
Perfectly Pink Collection Hair Clippies (This is such an awesome set...my favorite is the black and pink polka dotted one!)

Stripey Dotted Flowers Hair Clippies (These are so cute, and you get a set of four different pairs!)

Little Punk Rock Princess Tutu (If I ever have a little girl, I will be purchasing this for her! Seriously, I would wear this if I could squeeze into it lol.)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/steffaniechapell
2. Description of what you make: Hair bling! Custom clippies and headbands, as well as tutus.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite things to make are the headbands by far!
4. How you learned your craft: I started off with some online tutorials, and went from there.
5. Years you have been creating: 6, it started when my daughter was born and went from there.
6. Description of the item you are giving away: A custom woven headband. I can do almost anything with these!
In order to win this awesome custom woven headband, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Steffanie Chapell's Etsy shop http://steffaniechapell.etsy.com
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Steffanie Chapell or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about the adorable work of Steffanie Chapell!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-BEADING BY BAWISSA

Beading by Bawissa
I picked this shop because I have admired her amazing bead work for a while now. She makes jewelry, ornaments, pens, cell phone charms, and lots of other cool stuff! She and I are in the same BNR, so she posts her creations from time to time. Every time I see one I am impressed. I can't imagine doing anything that intricate and not going crazy! Plus, when you consider the amount of work that goes into these pieces, her prices are unbelievably reasonable. Here are my favorite items.
Twilight Inspired Edward and Bella Beaded Pen (This makes the Twilight fan in me drool. I love the charms so much, and the colors are lovely. This comes with 12 refills too!!!)

Snowflake Christmas Ornaments (These are what she is giving away! They are so pretty, and would look wonderful on anyone's tree! These would also be great for people in your life who don't celebrate Christmas...they are lovely reminders of win)

Blue and White Beaded Snowflake Earrings (These are the perfect size, and are a beautiful color. Plus, they are made using sterling silver ear wires and findings, so these are great for people with metal allergies!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://beadingbybawissa.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: I make a wide variety of beaded items including: ornaments, jewelry, pens, and cell phone charms. In my shop, I also have some crocheted dish cloth sets that my mom made.
3. Your favorite creation: I love my snowflake ornaments. They are my best sellers.
4. How you learned your craft: I started beading with simple kits and built on that. I learn techniques and such from books and beading magazines.
5. Years you have been creating: I've been crafting since before I can remember! I started working with beads over ten years ago, but I've been creative in different areas since way before that.
6. Description of the item you are giving away: I'm giving away a set of my snowflakes. This set includes two small snowflakes and two large snowflakes. They make great, inexpensive gifts for friends, coworkers, neighbors, etc. I sell these in different quantities in my shop. I also do custom orders so if you want a larger or smaller quantity, let me know. I can do different colors as well.
In order to win this super prize (that would be awesome to have for Christmas), you must do the following things. Please note, this giveaway is open only to the US and Canada.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Beading by Bawissa's Etsy shop http://www.beadingbybawissa.etsy.com
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Beading by Bawissa or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about the amazing work of Beading by Bawissa! If you are a seller on Etsy, be sure to check out our awesome BNR! We are a friendly, supportive group and we love new members!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-BODYLICIOUS BATH

Bodylicious Bath
I picked this shop because it is pretty new (July) and I really love talking about amazing undiscovered talented Etsians. Also, her soap sounds wonderful! I want to eat them lol. Here are my favorite items:
Oatmeal Milk and Honey Soap (I love oatmeal based soaps, and I love Milk and Honey soaps, so this is a win win!)

Pomegranite Soap (I love pomegranite, and this soap is beautiful to look at!)

Ocean Tide (This is unisex, which is awesome, plus it actually looks like the ocean!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.bodyliciousbath.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: I make handmade soaps, bath salts, sugar scrubs, bath fizzies- ball form or in a powdered form, and some candles. I am starting to make liquid soaps also.
3. Your favorite creation: One of my favorite soaps to make is my Pomegranate soap. I love it so much that I don't like to cut it. The top of it is so cool looking before it is cut.
4. How you learned your craft: I actually learned how to make soap when my mom's friend needed another local soap maker for her bath and body store. I needed to bring in some extra income and then taught myself how to do everything. I read and studied for about 5-7 hours every day for about 3 months. I ate, slept, and dreamed about making soap. That was 3 years ago and I now have several shops around the Houston area that I sell to, along with my websites. 5. Years you have been creating: Over 3 years now.
6. Description of the item you are giving away:I will give away 3 bars of soap (my choice) and shipping.
In order to win this prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Bodylicious Bath's Etsy shop http://www.bodyliciousbath.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Bodylicious Bath or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about Bodylicious Bath's amazing soaps!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-LUNAR BELLE

Lunar Belle
I picked this shop because I love the vintage feel of her items. Everything is absolutely gorgeous and meticulously detailed. Here are my favorite items!
Sapphire Bud Drop Necklace (I love the color, and it is beautiful!)

Sparrow's Garden Escapade Necklace (I love birds and I love the story this piece evokes!)

Autumn Floral Ring (Again, love the colors and the overall style! It looks like it is the perfect length, too!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop:You can find my creations at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7107523
2. Description of what you make:I design and create jewelry pieces that feature beautiful crystals, glass, lucite, flowers and lots of metal accents. I try and make every item unique with fairy princesses in mind!
3. Your favorite creation:I would have to say my Bronzed Turquoise Filigree Necklace is my favorite, however it is hard choosing just one.
4. How you learned your craft:I am a self taught jeweler, although I have spent a small fortune on beading magazines and books! Lots and lots of practice and trial and error.
5. Years you have been creating:I have been plying family and friends with my creations and selling at a local gift shop for around five years now and loving it.
6. Description of the item you are giving away:I am offering my Copper Pink Cathedral Drops to one lucky reader! They are a lovely pair of dainty pink crystal and gold earrings. The beads used are a gorgeous cathedral cut, clear crystal with copper lining which makes them glow pink.
In order to win this beautiful prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Lunar Belle's Etsy shop http://lunarbelle.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things:

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Lunar Belle or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about the amazing work of Lunar Belle!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-PEPPER'S APOTHECARY

Pepper's Apothecary

I picked this shop because a few weeks ago, I decided to purchase the Happy Buddha Soap on a whim because it looked adorable. It was tough to pick a scent because so many sounded wonderful, but I settled on The Green Isle, which is described as:
Rainy, salty mist green notes made up of basil, green leaf and ozone notes with added notes of muguet lily, rose and jasmine.
It was amazing. My husband thought I was insane because I kept shoving it under his nose to sniff. (He liked it too!) I was so excited when I smelled it that I ordered more soap immediately. (I literally went on the computer and placed another order within a few minutes of opening the package.) This time, I ordered a Soap Sample Pack. I wanted to try a bunch of different scents, and somehow she managed to accomodate me by sending me everything I wanted...plus a few wonderful extras to try! I have since shown my soaps to friends, who have asked for them for Christmas. One of them tried to convince me I should give him some right there! I have never had a guy react to a bath product that way before lol. I truly loved every scent I received. My favorites were Rashieka, Blackberry Pie, and Stiletto. You can check out the different scents she offers by looking at any of her item listings. Here are my favorite items other than the ones I have already purchased and loved:
Trio of Soaps Basket (I want these so badly! These soaps make me feel relaxed just by looking at them...and I know how wonderful they would look in my bathroom!)

Soap on a Rope (I want to get one of these for my husband! I love the design on the soap!)

Pirate Skull Soap (This is a must buy before Halloween!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop:http://pepperapothecary.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make:I make all sorts of crazy things. I make "mature" soap for Bachelorette Parties, I make skull soap, stackable christmas tree soap. I also make Bath Salts, Lotion & Wax Tarts.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite creation, and interestingly enough my most popular selling item, is my Pirate Skull Soap. It's so intricately designed and the details are great. Though, my newest soap is quickly becoming one of my favorites, it's a stackable Christmas tree soap.
4. How you learned your craft: It started out mostly with boredom to be honest. I lost my job and couldn't stand just sitting at home. So I decided to play mad scientist with soap craft supplies my mother in law gave me. It was really just trial and error. A LOT of Error too. Several years later, I'm selling soap like a fiend.
5. Years you have been creating:I've been creating various things for a long time, but soap I just started about three years ago. Before that it was just photography and music that I created.
6. Description of the item you are giving away:I'm giving away one of my Pirate Skull Soaps . The most popular item I have, I've sold close to 200 of them between single orders and party favor orders of it. Plus free shipping.

In order to win this amazing prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Pepper's Apothecary Etsy shop http://pepperapothecary.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Pepper's Apothecary or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about the amazing work of Pepper's Apothecary!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-KHO KREATIVE

Kho Kreative

I picked this shop because the photographs are lovely, and the cards are too! Colors are a huge draw for me, and these items are so colorful and eye-catching! Here are my favorite items:
Butterfly on Leaf 8X10 Photograph (I love butterflies, and this one is absolutely beautiful!)

Ranunculus Flower Blank Card Assortment Set of 6 Cards and Envelopes (These are so
great...perfect to have on hand for any occasion! The envelopes are beautiful!)

Chinese Double Happiness Wedding Card and Envelope (This is lovely! I love the colors.)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://KhoKreative.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.com/KhoKreative
2. Description of what you make: Handmade photo cards and envelopes featuring my husband's photography. We also sell prints of his photos.
3. Your favorite creation: My favorite creation (so far) has been the mini cards. They're simple and just the right size for a short note to add a special touch to any gift or occasion.
4. How you learned your craft: I've always been into crafting since I was young. Scrapbooking and card making have been my craft of choice. Before everything went digital, I used to document all my experiences and travels with photos and scrapbooks. Now that I'm married to a talented photographer, I've learned to combine our talents, and create something that can be useful to others.
5. Years you have been creating: I've been card making since I could hold a marker and cut with scissors. My mom was all about saving money, and used to give me "assignments" to make various cards for family/friends' birthdays and special occasions. I've progressed to more "sophisticated" cards probably over the past five years and decided to open up our Etsy shop a few months ago.
6. Description of the item you are giving away: KhoKreative is giving away a set of 4 Mini Thank You Cards & Envelopes. They are perfect for a simple note or, for you Etsians, these make great client thank yous! :-)

In order to win this amazing prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit KhoKreative's Etsy shop http://KhoKreative.etsy.com
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Kho Kreative or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)
  

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about KhoKreative's amazing work!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-STUDIO HAUS

Studio Haus

I picked this shop because I love how every picture and creation shows a love for nature and the world! Each item is colorful, happy, and unique. Here are my favorite items:
Mini Cards n Envelopes 8 Set (I love mini cards, and the colors of these are so bright and lovely!)

Through the Window 8X10 Fine Art Print (I know when I really love a photograph because I want to be there in the picture...that's how this one is. I keep staring at it!)

Italian Gardens Set of (3) 4x6 Fine Art Prints (Same as the one before...can I go live in these places please?)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://studiohaus.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: Fine art photography, cards, and envelopes.
3. Your favorite creation: hmmm that's definitely a tough one but I'm a little biased! I guess I would have to say that these Mini Cards n Envelopes have been really fun to make!
4. How you learned your craft: I worked for a photo studio for about 3 years but I am mostly self-taught.
5. Years you have been creating: I would have to say that the arts have been a lifelong affair but I've only recently discovered my love of photography.
6. What item are you giving away? It is a brand new photo greeting card that's not even available in my shop yet!

In order to win this amazing prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Studio Haus' Etsy shop http://studiohaus.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Studio Haus or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about Studio Haus' gorgeous photographs and cards!

FRIDAY'S FEATURED SELLER AND GIVEAWAY-STUDIO MME

Studio MME

I am really excited to be featuring this amazing seller. I picked this shop because her artwork is thought provoking and often beautifully dark. Plus, her descriptions are beautiful. I admit, item descriptions are a big selling point for me. When something is beautifully described, it makes the artist's passion shine through. Here are my favorite items:
The Hunter (This is so disturbing to me! I fully believe that the best kind of art is art which evokes a reaction, and this definitely does that!)

Fear's Uncloaking (I love artwork that offers new perspectives on fairy tales and old stories. This is beautiful!)

Handmade 1970's Italy Envelopes (That's right, she makes beautiful envelopes too!!!)

In the artist's own words...
1. The address of your Etsy shop: http://www.studiomme.etsy.com/
2. Description of what you make: I'm primarily a pen and ink artist who illustrates fairy tales and Victorian stories of my own imagination. In addition, I make the occasional set of envelopes created from children's books and some really unique notebooks.
3. Your favorite creation: At this moment, my favorite creation is my Fear's Uncloaking print, inspired by Little Red Riding Hood.
4. How you learned your craft: My father used to oil paint when I was little so I'm sure I inherited my talent partially from him. Over the years, I've honed my skills through public school art classes and now a near-complete degree in studio art from Minnesota State University Moorhead.
5. Years you have been creating: Let's see...I'm 22, so subtract 3 to be safe.
6. What item are you giving away? The item I would like to give away is this small, 5" x 7" print entitled, "Lover of a Star," inspired by the Neil Gaiman novel, "Stardust". Printed by a high-quality Epson printer with archival ink on 100% cotton rag, archival safe paper, the image will measure 4" x 6" to allow for easy framing. Value is $15.00. The print is unsigned and unnumbered.
Lover of a Star Print

In order to win this amazing prize, you must do the following things.

• Become a follower of this blog (not anonymously)
• Visit Studio MME's Etsy shop http://www.studiomme.etsy.com/
• Come back here and post which item is your favorite (please post a link) and your email address so that I can contact you if you win

For extra entries you can do any or all of the following things.

• Tweet about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (1 extra entry)
• Blog about this giveaway. Post the link in a separate comment here (3 extra entries)
• Make a purchase from either Studio MME or Altered Beauty and post the transaction link here (5 extra entries per purchase)
  

That's it! I will randomly select a winner next Friday at 12:00AM. If you win, I will contact you via the email address you provide in your comment. Thanks so much for participating and learning more about Studio MME's amazing work!