Indie Diner

Taking a Break

2007-11-05T09:02:00.000-05:00

I'll be taking a break from Indie Diner for awhile so I can focus on other things. Thanks :)

Saturday: Holiday Cards

2007-11-03T08:29:00.001-05:00

I've been a big fan of The Black Apple for awhile and I just love her Holiday cards this year. Find them at The Black Apple.

Friday Fish Fry: Fish Card

2007-11-02T06:40:00.000-05:00

Cute Happy Birthday card with sweet little fishies ~ blank inside for your own personal message. Find it at Vieira Girl Studio.

Thursday: Red basket

2007-11-01T10:15:00.000-05:00

I love the country feel of this basket. Just think of all the uses for this basket! Find it at The Keepers House.

Wednesday: Curious Fox

2007-10-31T08:58:00.000-05:00

I love this print! A lone cardinal sits safely in a tree while a hungry fox watches him eagerly! Find it at Sarah Blank Studios.

Tuesday: Coffee Mug

2007-10-30T08:06:00.001-05:00

Now, this is a coffee mug! 12 oz. of java goodness will fit in this cup. And how adorable is the old fashioned typewriter? Find it at Circa Ceramics.

Monday: Peach moonstone

2007-10-29T08:57:00.000-05:00

Love, love, love moonstone, especially this gorgeous shade of peach. Paired with oxidized silver - brilliant :) Find them at Kris Cross Designs.

Sunday Brunch Special: Debby Arem Designs

2007-10-28T08:45:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
Well, ever since I was little, I’ve always wanted “ to be an artist” and took art classes as a child at the Rhode Island School of Design. In college, I got my B.A. in Fine Arts (concentrating in silkscreen design) and then was very fortunate to have a number of jobs using my silkscreen knowledge. I worked in a couple of the Smithsonian Institution’s museums as an Exhibits Specialist and then as the matter and framer in the National Gallery of Art.

Becoming my “own boss” however, didn’t come about until several years later when I met my husband (a gemologist and author of several books on the subject ).Thanks to my husband, I was introduced to both the world of beads and oddly enough to the inner workings of computers( as he owned a computer company at the time ). One thing led to another and through a lot of networking and creative processes, I developed my two lines of jewelry – Beadles and Three Ring Circuits! Before the birth of the internet ( wow that makes me sound old !) I did trunk shows in a number of upscale department stores like Bloomingdales and Famous-Barr in Chicago, and also had booths at juried craft shows. I also sold my two lines in a number of museum shops and art galleries. And now, like then, I still love doing custom work if someone asks me. I get a lot of pleasure out of that – creating that one special piece for someone.

2. Where are you located?
I’m located in Laytonsville, Maryland – about 40 miles NW of Washington, D.C.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
Beadles just popped into my head one day and at the time it seemed clever and a name people would remember.
Of course, I wasn’t thinking about the fact that when I had BEADLES as my license plate, everyone was always assuming it meant I was a huge fan of the Beatles!
The name of my other line ( 3RC-Three Ring Circuits ) was a family collaboration and very appropriate at the time as I was busy juggling 2 businesses as well as being a wife and mother to two little kids as well as being ‘owned’ by a couple of dogs and several cats!

4. Where do you sell your products?
Currently I am mainly selling my two lines from my own website www.debbyarem.com.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
Yes – I have joined The Switchboards and the Jewelry Artists Index. I find these online forums most informative -a great way to exchange information and gain knowledge. Again, it’s hard to imagine not having the internet now isn’t it?!

6. Read any good books lately?
A book I recently read which really had an impact on my life was
If The Buddha Came To Dinner – How to Nourish Your Body to Awaken Your Spirit by Hale’Sofia Shatz with Shira Shaiman
“A guide to healthy eating through listening to the body identifies the spiritual qualities of food choices, providing inspirational advice, practical suggestions, tips on how to balance personal energy…”

I’ve always been a ‘health nut’ and this book only helped to confirm many of my beliefs and also open my eyes to a number of things I’d never thought about before having to do with what we put into our body and why. There’s a great section devoted to whether or not you are a “sweet” or “salty” kind of person when it comes to your food cravings which I thought was fascinating! Good book to recommend since we’re having a Sunday brunch in the Indie Diner don’t you think? ;-)

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
Wow – there are SO many other things I do ……I’m an avid knitter and gardener. I practice yoga on a regular basis, love to cook and try out new recipes. I love to go antiquing and to flea markets looking for pieces of old furniture to refinish.
My husband and I also volunteer with two dog rescue groups:
www.allbreed.org and www.samrescue.com.
I do vet checks if someone wants to adopt a dog and home visits and my husband does the photography for one of the websites.

8. What would be your dream job?
I think I’m very fortunate in that I have already found my dream job and I’m doing it! If I had to have another career however, it would probably be as an art therapist or a vet tech.

9.What’s your favorite color?
Purple but specifically what would be referred to as the shade of “eggplant”.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Probably anything Italian !

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Definitely coffee – and a very strong cup of it! I’m very particular about this first thing in the morning – just ask my husband!

Saturday: Peppermint Ring

2007-10-27T05:41:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the Holidays! I love this peppermint ring. Looks good enough to eat...but, well...don't! Find it at Silver Style.

Friday Fish Fry: Baby Been-ie

2007-10-26T08:11:00.000-05:00

How adorable is this? I just love the fish on it and it's made using recycled materials. Yay! Find it at MuCKE.

Wednesday: Baby bag

2007-10-25T06:36:00.000-05:00

I love the print on this messenger bag! You will be noticed for sure with this tote. Perfect as a diaper bag or gym bag or laptop bag or...you get the picture :) Find it at Bella Sera Baby.

Wednesday: A Lunch Tote

2007-10-24T08:13:00.000-05:00

I just love lunch boxes of any kind but this one takes the cake. Vintage inspired and totally adorable, send your kiddos off to the lunchroom in style :) Find it at Teacups & Tadpoles.

Tuesday: Patchwork bird

2007-10-23T07:44:00.001-05:00

Oh, how I love birds...of all kinds, especially this sweet patchwork birdie. Find her at Jessy's Dolls.

Monday: Thank You cards

2007-10-22T07:40:00.000-05:00

I always have a variety of Thank You cards on hand. You never know when someone will unexpectedly give you a gift (hint, hint;)). I love these cards with adorable dots and darling birds. Find them at Pepperina Press.

Sunday Brunch Special: Girls Night Out

2007-10-21T08:36:00.001-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
My name is Holly Bedard, a fairly new addition to the thirty-something group. Girls’ Night Out Designs came about a few years ago. Quite frankly, I started making jewelry as a way to keep my hands busy after I quit smoking. It worked – and almost six years later I’m much healthier and surrounded by tons of jewelry! You can find my collection at www.girlsnightoutdesigns.com.

2. Where are you located?
Manchester, NH

3. How did you come up with your business name?
It was a fairly painful process. I agonized over finding just the right name and always felt like it was on the tip of my tongue. Many, many girls’ nights later, it finally hit me. It was exactly what I had been looking for. I always thought the jewelry I created had a fun, slightly intoxicating feel to it, and Girls’ Night Out Designs said it all.

4. Where do you sell your products?
I sell my products exclusively online at www.girlsnightoutdesigns.com. I also have some shows coming up locally and plan to offer home parties starting in January.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to lots of indie Web groups. The Switchboards is amazing. I’m also listed at several indie-approved sites. It’s great to see so many people out there doing what they love!

6. What inspires you?
Color. That is always what I see first. The right color combination can make or break a piece.
I also have a not-so-very secret love affair with freshwater pearls. I just love the variety of colors and shapes you can find them in.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
During the day, I am the editor of a statewide women’s magazine called The NH Mirror, which is based out of Manchester. We are coming up on our first birthday, and we’re celebrating with a charity fashion show. The bonus? I work with a lot of women who all love jewelry!

8. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
I shouldn’t say this. It’s by no means a model anyone should strive for. But when I’m stuck, I buy stuff. I stock up on pretty strands of gemstones, pearls or crystals. And it never fails. Once I make one or two things from the new stash, ideas start pouring in for all of the other beads I have laying around. It’s like I just a kickstart.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is Ravioli Stefano at Piccola Italia, a great Italian restaurant in our downtown. It is made with butternut squash ravioli sautéed with chicken and pancetta in a Frangelican cream sauce with a touch of cinnamon. It’s like dessert and dinner rolled into one.

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Coffee, without a doubt. But none of those weakling coffees. Needs to be something really bold! I love the Starbucks Italian Roast.

Saturday: Cup O Birdy

2007-10-20T08:05:00.000-05:00

What a sweet little bird sitting in a cup. I especially love the flower detail on the china cup. Find it at Little Doodles.

Friday Fish Fry: Joy to the Fishes

2007-10-19T08:10:00.000-05:00

I love this print! Tiny little fishes in a sea of blue. Find it at Makrista Baby.

Wednesday: A silver guitar pick

2007-10-17T06:07:00.000-05:00

Who know? A beautiful guitar pick made of silver. And look how gorgeous it is! My oldest has been playing for a few years and my youngest daughter just started. This would make an awesome gift. Find it at Red Cat Run Studio.

Tuesday: Dangle earrings

2007-10-16T08:45:00.000-05:00

One-piece design make these gorgeous silver earrings really unique. Find them at April Kawaoka Jewelry.

Monday: Elephants

2007-10-15T08:11:00.000-05:00

How cool are these elephant envelopes? I love them :) Find them at Sugarcube Design.

Sunday Brunch Special: Designing Diva

2007-10-14T08:44:00.000-05:00

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business
I’m a late bloomer who found creating jewelry to be a passion (don’t you know that Clinical Scientist degree looks so much better collecting dust in the attic!). Initially, I started simple beading for stress relief but this quickly turned into an addiction. I’m self taught and currently metal smith, wire wrap, chainmaille and work with glass (fused and lamp work) as a medium; I just can’t decide because it all so much fun! My husband and soul mate, John is extremely supportive and has encouraged me every step of the way from my first sale to trunk show to the e-commerce jewelry boutique, Designing-Diva. Our children, Brittney(8) and Blake(6), can often be found in the studio helping pack orders and making their own little wearable art; Blake loves to make his own pendant talisman necklaces and Brittney loves making charms for her bracelets.

2. Where are you located?
I’m located in the Big D aka Dallas. My studio is in my home.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
Designing-Diva came from my empowerment and career change; going from unhappy geeky clinical scientist to this happy wonderfully creative person. Diva is an Italian word that is derived from Latin and stands for goddess. I wanted my designs to be unique and make women everywhere feel beautiful and sexy (hence the goddess).

4. Where do you sell your products?
I currently sell my wearable art online at my jewelry boutique, Designing-Diva. You can also find some of my designs online at Bagadoodle, mintd, and Artisans Market. I’m involved in some other online projects that are very near to being “live” that are indie and art bases. I am carried in a retail gift shop in Lamont, AB called LaGaleria (www.LaGaleria.ca).

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
As an indie jewelry artist, I’m very vocal about supporting indie business. I participate in online forums like The Switchboards and would love to participate offline with the Dallas Craft Mafia but it just never seems to work with my schedule!

6. What inspires you?
OMG, everything. Whatever I see and hear, my brain immediately thinks how can I translate that into jewelry. One of my most popular designs (pink mop hoop earrings) is inspired by a favorite childhood memory-swinging on a tire that my Grandfather had hung.

7. What’s your favorite childhood memory?
Going to my Grandma’s house and baking with her. She had a little table set up and gave me my very own apron. Whatever she was making, bread or pie, she would let me make my own “mini version”. I can still remember making gingerbread men from pie dough and using raisins for the eyes; they were dirt brown because I’d play with the dough before making my creation. It really is true…a little dirt never hurt anyone. LOL!

8. What is your favorite color?
Gosh, I have to choose just one. At the moment it is aqua. Peruvian blue opal and aqua colored glass are just rocking my world!

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Finally, an easy question! Dark Chocolate. Yes, it is a food group!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Absolutely has to be a cup of good dark joe. The darker and bolder taste the better!

Saturday: Atomic Pillow

2007-10-13T08:48:00.000-05:00

I love retro prints and this atomic barkcloth fabric is so very cool! Doesn't your couch need a little spicing up? Find it at The Rocket Workshop.

Friday Fish Fry: Fishing

2007-10-12T09:03:00.000-05:00

For anyone collecting ACEO's, this fishing print would be a great addition to your collection. Vibrant colors and amazing detail ~ just lovely! Find it at Serpent Mandalas.

Thursday: Darling birds

2007-10-11T07:53:00.000-05:00

Adorable little Alice & Max are needle felted birds and are as sweet as can be. Only 2 1/2" tall and made of wool. Find them at IRISCHACHA.

Wednesday: Market bag

2007-10-10T07:42:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't need a big market tote? This is a beautiful deep sage green with a gray lining. I love how it has those big pleats! Find it at moop.

Tuesday: Dot necklace

2007-10-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

OMG, I am in love with this necklace. It is so stunning with gorgeous, rich Fall colors. Yum! Find it at TQB Designs.

Sunday Brunch Special: Zurina Ketola

2007-10-07T09:19:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I’ve been designing jewelry for about five years now, but my passion for the craft came about unexpectedly. At the time, I was living in Santa Monica and took a trip back to my hometown of Portland, Oregon. On a momentary whim, my dad took me into a shop called Ed’s House of Gems. I became infatuated with the intrinsic beauty of the stones, so I bought about ten strands to fool around with. At first, I was just making gifts for friends and family. After a while though, I realized that this was something I wanted to try and grow. I’ve since sold my work at art galleries and shows, in boutiques, and early this year I was able to expand to my own on-line boutique.

2. Where are you located?
My business is based out of Phoenix, AZ.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
I wanted to keep things simple. I figured I had a really unique name, and I wanted to use it.

4. Where do you sell your products?
There are two brick and mortar stores locally that carry my work. Swell Clothing, which is located in the funky Mill Avenue District of Tempe, and the other is located in a shop in the posh Gainey Ranch neighborhood of Scottsdale called SC Moda. Otherwise, my work is available at my online boutique, www.zurinaketola.com.

5.Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to a few discussion boards. One of the most helpful for me business-wise is The Switchboards. To talk about the ins and outs of jewelry design, there's the Jewelry Artists Index. For fashion and beauty, there's SheFinds, and the Fashion-Forums.

6. What inspires you?
So many things! Architecture, film, books, nature, friends, family, beads, gems… It’s amazing how you can take an idea or concept and use it to create a tangible object.

7. Read any good books lately?
A couple. The Best American Essays of 2006, edited by Lauren Slater and A Natural History of Human Emotions, by Stuart Wilson.

8. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
I’m a student, so most of the time you’ll find me in school, or doing chemistry or math homework. Because of my web site, I’ve developed an interest in web design, and photography as well. I started drum lessons recently, which is so incredibly fun! I also love to go out dancing, write, and just chill with my husband at home.

9. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
Sometimes. I just try to take a break to regroup and clear my head. Something as simple as a walk, reading a book, or doing yoga, all can get my creative juices flowing again.

10. What would be your dream job?
I planned my wedding back in 2005 single-handedly, and had the best time doing it! I think being an event or wedding planner would be so much fun.

11. What’s your favorite color?
Any shade of blue.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Hmm... Ok, I know it’s not “diner food”, but I’d have to say that my favorite meal called misir wat from an Ethiopian restaurant called Café Colucci on Telegraph Avenue in Oakland. It’s an incredibly delicious spiced lentil dish that is sooooooo addictive. Seriously, if you’re a vegetarian and you find yourself anywhere near the Bay Area, you have to go there for that dish.

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
I’d have to say tea.

Saturday: Rag Doll crib shoes

2007-10-06T07:57:00.000-05:00

I had a really hard time choosing which pair of these adorable crib shoes to feature. The elephants almost won out but I am so fond of Raggedy Ann & Andy. Are they not the cutest?? Made of wool felt and hand-stitched. Find them at The Baby Gardner.

Friday Fish Fry: Paper Night Light

2007-10-05T07:40:00.000-05:00

Look how the light glows through this handmade paper night light. Natural fibers & Japanese paper are used to create magnificent texture. Gorgeous! Find it at mixtgoods.com by artists Yoshi & Susan Baran Aoki of Blue Tree Gallery.

Thursday: Moroccan Bracelet

2007-10-04T09:01:00.000-05:00

I love the deep, deep red of the garnets in this bracelet...and the carnelian stone sets everything off perfectly! Find it at Kirsten Gunst Natural Jewelry.

Wednesday: Polka Dot tote

2007-10-03T08:03:00.000-05:00

I'm a big fan of polka dots! This adorable little tote for kids not only has polka dots but also their initial. Cute :) Find it (and a whole lotta other polka dotted goodies) at Polka Dot Market.

Tuesday: Night Sky earrings

2007-10-02T08:31:00.001-05:00

Gorgeous! Deep midnight blue vintage glass beads paired with brass & oxidized silver findings make these earrings magical. Find them at Leaves of Glass.

Monday: Urban cute

2007-10-01T07:21:00.000-05:00

Love the graphic on this very cool blanket. Lightweight 100% cotton with cotton fill. Find it at Super Natural Baby.

Sunday Brunch Special: TADA BABY

2007-09-30T08:22:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I’m a native New Yorker but currently live outside of Boston with my husband, my 3.5 year-old daughter Adelaide, my 8 month-old daughter Georgina and our dog Chewy. I have always enjoyed painting, photography, color…pretty much anything where I can be creative.

TADA BABY gives me the opportunity to do all of this! I create personalized canvas wall art that features babies and big kids. Digital artwork is first created on the computer incorporating the photograph of the child. It is then giclée printed with archival pigment inks on premium artist canvas. I stretch the canvas over a wooden frame and then areas are hand-painted with acrylic paint. The canvas is then sprayed with a finishing gloss to protect it. The result is an original piece of art that children will love as much as their parents do!

2. Where are you located?
Sherborn, MA. It is a small suburb of Boston, MA.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
My 3.5 year-old loves to say Ta-Da! when she does pretty much anything…writes her name, draws a picture, dresses herself, it’s always “Ta-Da! I did it.” When I completed my first canvas I was so excited. It was a realization that I had completed something unique and special…it was a true Ta-Da! moment for me.

When I decided to start selling my canvases and turn this into a business I thought, what could be a more fitting name than TADA BABY?   I like it because it captures the fun and excitement of kids, which is really what the company is all about.

4. Where do you sell your products?
I sell my work through my website www.tadababy.com. Orders can be emailed to me at orders@tadababy.com. I also have an etsy shop: www.tadababy.etsy.com.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to a number of online forums. theswitchboards.com has been a great place to get a wealth of information from seasoned women entrepreneurs. I’m also fond of poshmama.com and belong to the EtsyKids street team.

6. What inspires you?
I have always been inspired by color. Everywhere I look I see blocks and patterns of color. Fabric is also a great inspiration for me as well as wallpaper. They both can have great color combinations and graphic designs.

7. Do you have any quirks or obsessions you care to share?
It’s embarrassing but I have an obsession with all things Star Wars. I don’t know where it comes from, but there you have it. Did I mention that my dog’s name is Chewbacca?

8. What’s your favorite childhood memory?
Climbing trees and swimming at the lake in New York where I used to go to camp every summer. I had the best carefree childhood!

9. What’s your favorite color?
Hot Pink. I can’t help myself!

10. What’s the most difficult aspect of running your biz?
By far the most difficult challenge for me has been balancing family time with the time it takes to run a successful business. I sometimes feel as though I’m spreading myself too thin, but I’m determined to be on more of a schedule and let family time be family time and work time be work time. I learned very quickly that you can’t do both simultaneously!

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Lobster with more lobster! Thank goodness I live in New England!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Coffee in any form…iced coffee, black coffee, coffee with steamed milk…I could go on!

Friday Fish Fry: Guppy Love

2007-09-28T08:04:00.000-05:00

Cute pendant made using Japanese chiyogami(old-paper). Find it at gamiworks.

Thursday: Market tote

2007-09-27T08:29:00.000-05:00

I've been eyeing this market tote lately as I really need a tote this size. I love the colors in this one and the fact that it's reversible! Find it at htNEVELE.

Wednesday: Darling Smock

2007-09-26T05:59:00.001-05:00

What little sweetie wouldn't look adorable in this smock? Apples & pears on a chocolate background. Based on a classic 70's pattern. I just love it :) Find it at PINKDIXIE.

Tuesday: Monster journal

2007-09-25T07:51:00.000-05:00

Having some bad dreams? Use this Nightmare Snatcher (tm) to write away all your worries, scares or frights. There's even a spell at the beginning of the journal to help rid you of those unwanted nightmares. Find it at The Spiderbite Boutique.

Monday: Darling little skirt

2007-09-24T06:35:00.000-05:00

I love simple little skirts like this. And I love the colors & pattern in this one. Match it to a t-shirt and you have a sweet outfit for your little girl. Find it at gock's frocks.

Sunday Brunch Special: Whimsy by Jess

2007-09-23T08:48:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
My name is Jessica and I am a stay at home mom to my almost 3 year old son, with another sweet baby on the way (due in 4 weeks!!) I am constantly crafting and have been for as long as I can remember. As a young child my great-grand mother taught me to crochet and it kind of just stuck. I dabble in many different crafts, trying new things all the time and sticking with what I like.

I started my business as a way to do what I love, which is create imaginative, useful items with my hands, pass on these items to people who will enjoy and cherish them as much as I do, and, maybe even add a little extra income to what my husband contributes that makes it possible to stay home with my children.

2. Where are you located?
I am located in the California Bay Area. This is a wonderful place for artists and crafters, with so many resources near by! I have a number of yarn stores that I frequent, depending on the particular yarn I need and what each store carries. There are also many local groups and clubs for crafty types.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
I have really just always liked the word ‘whimsy’, and I really think that everything I create has a bit of whimsy to it.

4. Where do you sell your products?
I currently sell my products on Etsy at www.whimsybyjess.etsy.com

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I do belong to the local ‘craft mafia’ This group has been a great resource for meeting other crafty business people as well as finding local craft fairs and other marketing information. I highly recommend joining your local craft mafia!

6. What inspires you?
I get inspiration from so many places. My first and favorite place to look is nature. I love moss and leaves and anything green, really. I also look at things like fabric and scrapbook paper, I find some really interesting color combinations and designs from both.
I also love mythical movies like Lord of the Rings, and finding unique illustrations of fairies. From these I find inspiration for things to add to my creations, or ideas for different techniques to try.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
When I’m not crafting I am usually playing with my son or cleaning my house ( an endless job!)

8. What’s your favorite color?
This has got to be the easiest question of all! Green! By far green is my Favorite color. I generally include green in every piece I create.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
This is a hard one, as I am pregnant and currently going in and out of cravings! My current meal craving is anything with guacamole, I’m a big fan of avocados!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Tea! I’m very into herbal tea at the moment. I’ve been drinking also of raspberry leaf tea, which is said to be a ‘uterine toner’, being due in 4 weeks this is a good thing for me!

Saturday: Snow Owl

2007-09-22T08:50:00.001-05:00

We just saw a beautiful snow owl at the zoo the other day so when I saw this teeny tiny version, I just had to feature it! Measuring only 2" tall, he is sure to delight all who see him :) Find him at Blossom Hill Cottons.

Friday Fish Fry: Primitive earrings

2007-09-21T08:01:00.001-05:00

I love the simplicity of these sterling silver primitive fish earrings. Find them at Silver Monk.

Thursday: Very cool notebooks

2007-09-20T08:36:00.000-05:00

I love these notebooks! Gorgeous digitally manipulated photos are on the cover and inside are 20 assorted pages for all your doodling & writing goodness. Find them at modern printed matter.

Wednesday: Pumpkin earrings

2007-09-19T08:29:00.000-05:00

I think these earrings look like little pumpkins. So it's the perfect time to wear them, right? Lovely marbled orange quartz combined with tiny Swarovski beads & brass findings. Yum! Find these darlings at k. deane designs.

Tuesday: Bike illustration

2007-09-18T08:32:00.000-05:00

I love this illustration. An old gnarly tree and a bicycle drawn on a page from Huckleberry Finn. Fabulous! Find it at Pinky Brown.

Monday: Cute little coin pouch

2007-09-17T08:09:00.001-05:00

This little pouch sure would be handy to have on your keychain to hold all those loose coins or maybe some mints or pills... It's just barely 2 inches square and SOOO adorable. Find it at Cotton & Cloud.

Sunday Brunch Special: Amber Fay

2007-09-16T08:25:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
My name is Amber Fay and I work full-time for a group of general surgeons. My life has come to a point where I need to make a change, although my job is very rewarding, it is now time for me to pursue my jewelry making business.

I create and sell photo tile pendants. They make unique and different gifts in the sense that they are handmade and use a special transfer process to create each piece. I use low fire clay and each image in resized and cropped and transferred to black and white where it is then baked onto the clay tile. The image actually becomes a part of the tile.

2. Where are you located?
Thousand Oaks, CA

3. How did you come up with your business name?
I could not think of a name, so everyone kept telling me to just use my own name, that it flowed rather nicely.

4. Where do you sell your products? www.amberfay.etsy.com.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to many jewelry making forums on Yahoo Groups.

6. What inspires you?
The desire to cut back working full-time and work part-time so that I can have a child and be the best mom I can be.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
I work full-time for a group of general surgeons and when I come home, I spend time with my husband and 17 year old Papillion Gizmoe, my 2 Chihuahuas Cricket and Zoe, my black cat Gus and my Russian tortoise Max.

8. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
All the time, I usually have to take a break and walk away and then re- compose my thoughts and creative energy.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal? Vegetarian tacos

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee? Coffee

Saturday: Jungle Leaf pendant

2007-09-15T08:07:00.000-05:00

Darling little polymer clay pendant featuring a leaf, set in a bamboo-edged setting. Find it at Green Leaf & Owl.

Friday Fish Fry: Head to the Ocean

2007-09-14T08:21:00.000-05:00

Beautiful Thai Hill Tribe silver pendant stamped with fish & flowers is the focus of this necklace. Moonstone, new jade & amazonite add the gorgeous ocean colors. Find it at Spiral Stone.

Thursday: Neat-O cards

2007-09-13T07:03:00.000-05:00

This set of four cards are a bit on the funky side. Created with baroque prints, photoshop and an imac, the end result is a fun montage of images. Find them at Enfin, La voila!.

Wednesday: Primrose Lime tote

2007-09-12T07:27:00.000-05:00

I'm a big fan of Amy Butler fabrics. This bag was made with the new line called Nigella. It's a great size too, big enough to carry all you need but small enough so it doesn't become a bottomless pit. Find it at Julia Martinez Designs.

Tuesday: Eyeball pincushion

2007-09-11T07:12:00.000-05:00

Ha! How funny is this? Now, Jen has some very lovely and pretty pincushions but I just HAD to feature this one as it cracked me up. Find it at Schmaltzy Craftsy.

Monday: Metallic Pink pouch

2007-09-10T07:40:00.000-05:00

Wow! Is this ever cool! Shiny metallic pink pouch...perfect for cosmetics, credit cards or whatever. Find it at peep bags.

Sunday Brunch Special: Midnight Sky Fibers

2007-09-09T08:01:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I started in January 2006 (when I was 19) as a natural progression of my love of knitting and crochet (I also weave, tat, and much more as well). My love of handspun lead me to want to share it- and my love of environmentalism- with other people. There aren't many other people out there making eco friendly yarn the way I do, using greywater, not many other people are naturally dying sock yarn either. So, my business is an extension of my lifestyle! It is vegetarian and eco friendly just like me.

2. Where are you located?
I am located in the lovely Pacific Northwest, which I am very lucky to live in- we are really green here, and I'm not just talking about the trees! I love that I can live in an area that has like-minded people, and a large knitting population!

3. How did you come up with your business name?
My business name was a screen name I have used since an early teen, so it seemed natural to incorporate it in to my business.

4. Where do you sell your products?
You can find my yarns and fibers at: www.MidnightskyFibers.com. You can also find a list of our wholesalers that carry our yarns there as well. You can also find us on etsy and eBay both as MidnightskyFibers. We also have a blog where we update our recent yarn as well as our crafty projects as Blog.MidnightskyFibers.com.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
A few, but college (just graduated with my BA after two years) has kept me busy.

6. What inspires you?
I absolutely love where I live! The pacific Northwest is so beautiful, full of wonderful, natural colors and so many different types of trees, fish, and so much more that that is probably where most of my inspiration comes from.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
Does cooking count? My whole life revolves around making things, even if it isn't for my business. I make bread at least a couple times a week, and try to cook quite a bit from scratch. Most of my hobbies are also craft related as well- sewing, knitting, tatting, weaving, and the like.

8. Have any marketing or business tips you’d like to share?
I think the biggest thing people tend to forget is that they are not anonymous on the internet. Never forget that. You want to be able to say, "Yea I totally am [that person on the forum]", not, "O, you heard about that too?". It's really the 7-11 rule for businesses on the net- if you are nice to people and respectful people will tell people about how much they like your business (the 7 part), but if you are rude, don't follow through, or cause drama- well, that is the 11- they will tell many more people how hard it was to work with you then they would have told if you were nice. O, and play nice with the other businesses, especially in your niche.

9. What would be your dream job?
I am in my dream job! I love everything related to textiles and creating and dyeing yarn- well, except the bookkeeping and accounting. So maybe what I am doing now but with a bookkeeper!

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
I really, really love waffles. Not the Belgian waffles you get when you go out to eat, but the waffles from the machines that make them in five little heart shapes, spread with real butter and lots of syrup! Maybe some peanut butter if I am really hungry or trying to be healthy. O, and coffee. Lots of coffee!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
It really depends on the occasion and the time. In the morning, coffee for sure (or a chai), it is more filling to me. Tea is better at night or drinking idly while I am working, especially a yummy flavored rooibos.

Saturday: Autumn necklace

2007-09-08T06:01:00.000-05:00

Time to think about getting some Autumn jewelry in rich, warm colors. I think this necklace fits the bill. Beautiful rondelles in jewel tone colors paired with a smoky quartz briolette. YUM! Find it at The Glimmer Repository.

Friday Fish Fry: Electric Jelly Fish Notes

2007-09-07T06:04:00.000-05:00

I love the gorgeous blue color of this stationary and the raised silver jelly fish really jumps out at you :) Find this set at Snew Art.

Thursday: Bird Pouch

2007-09-06T08:06:00.000-05:00

I'm a big fan of birds (as many of you already know:-), applique and hand embroidery. Well, this cute little pouch has all of that plus fabulous colors. Find this and other equally adorable pouches at Loose String.

Wednesday: Chocolate Swirls

2007-09-05T08:07:00.000-05:00

Pretty white swirls on a rich chocolate background - this cute wristlet even has a beaded wrist strap - very cool. Find it at Bean Pickle Sprout.

Tuesday: Cool Collage

2007-09-04T10:04:00.000-05:00

I'm really feelin' this piece. Lots of texture and a cool design. Find it at garnish.

Monday: Personalized dishes

2007-09-03T09:40:00.000-05:00

Oh, how my kids would love a set of real dishes like this! Beautiful design of animals with your child's name on them. Find them at Ola Design.

Sunday Brunch Special: ZeVin Cards

2007-09-02T08:18:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
ZeVin Creations is a sister-owned company that provides one-of-a-kind cards for all occasions/holidays/events. The uniqueness about our cards is that we use just about anything to make a card and we interweave in the two sister's special talents into the cards. We both have two distinct styles and that comes across in our cards which allows the card to appeal to a larger market.

2. Where are you located?
Louisville, KY

3. How did you come up with your business name?
The name ZeVin Creations comes from the sister’s parent’s name
(ZE – Zenolia Miller and VIN – Marvin Miller). God has blessed their parents with these girls who in exchange have been blessed with the talents that go into making these pieces of art. So it seemed natural to continue their legacy in the business name.
4. Where do you sell your products?
We have a couple retail locations in KY and NC. And online at www.zevcards.com. We are currently working on getting more locations for both internet and brick-mortar.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
The company belongs to the Louisville Craft Mafia. Maranda belongs to the Black Craft Guild.

6. What inspires you?
Just about everything inspires us when it relates to the cards. We can be going somewhere and see something that will spark a particular design for a card. The fun is when we make custom cards for we try to find out the most about the recipient so that we make sure the card truly reflects them and that is inspiration in itself.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
Well we have the traditional business stuff – marketing, shows, networking. But with us both being mothers we try to spend quality time with our children and typically as a group. In our spare time, Marisa is training for a Team In Training marathon to support Leukemia and Maranda is working on her vegetable garden.

8. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
We try to stay current in what the national card-making, paper creating publications have going on as a way to get our juices flowing if we can't think of something. It's funny you'll see us in a bookstore or craft/art store looking through books.

9. What’s your favorite childhood memory?
We'd have to say the summers we spent on our grandparent's farm. It is in a small little drive-in drive-out town so we were isolated and just had the land and family members. We both developed responsibility and our foundation in who we are today. It definitely was our home away from Louisville.

10. What’s your favorite color?
Both Marisa and Maranda love the color purple. It is a sign of sophistication.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Let's see a nice southern dish... and being end of summer I'd have to say some barbecue (Marisa chicken, Maranda a vegan riblet), macaroni salad, fried corn, some fresh green beans with tomatoes and cucumbers, a roll ... and then something sweet so Marisa carrot cake and Maranda a big bowl of strawberries and blueberries..

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Well we both love tea – Marisa sweet cold tea and Maranda a nice hot chai tea with soy milk.

Saturday: Ming Dynasty Pottery necklace

2007-09-01T08:38:00.000-05:00

Very interesting necklace with a bit of a history lesson. Ming dynasty pottery shard paired with mauve suede and a mix of fab beads. Love it! Find it at MTuent Jewelry Designer.

Friday Fish Fry: Coral bead bracelet

2007-08-31T08:52:00.000-05:00

A very cool clasp on this coral bead bracelet - it's a fish! Perfect for Fish friday :) Find it at The Purple Whale.

Thursday: Delicate Pearl

2007-08-30T09:09:00.000-05:00

Isn't this necklace amazing? A simple grey Swarovski pearl all wrapped up in luscious silver. Find it at Georgie Designs.

Thursday: Beautiful Bowls

2007-08-29T08:22:00.000-05:00

More bowls for my bowl fetish. Oh, how I love these bowls! Find them at Shevon Gant Ceramics.

Tuesday: Pretty Up your Passport

2007-08-28T09:05:00.000-05:00

Planning on a little traveling soon? Why not carry your passport in something pretty? Like this elegant hand-embroidered passport cover. Not going anywhere? Well, it can also be used to hold a memo pad or whatnot. Find it at Norththreads.

Monday: A simple pearl

2007-08-27T08:41:00.000-05:00

I'm all about simple, understated yet elegant jewelry. Like this gorgeous offset pearl necklace :) LOVE it! Find it at Nicki Grace.

Sunday Brunch Special: Retrospective Design

2007-08-26T09:58:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
My name is Josephine and I’m a graphic designer. I have a BFA in Art Visual Communications and have experience in web, print and television. I started Retrospective Design in January 2007. I do completely custom designs for photo montages, photo books, wedding invitations and more. Each design I make is specially made just for each customer. My customers send me their favorite photos and I get to make them a unique montage. I do my wedding invitations a little different than most companies. I create custom designs and then provide you with the print ready electronic files that you can take to your local printer or print at home. This is a great way for the bride on the budget to get a design she loves. I love creating new designs and I am always ready for a challenge.

2. Where are you located
Kansas City, MO

3. How did you come up with your business name?
It took me awhile. The first few names I thought of were taken. So then I started looking words up in the thesaurus. And that’s where I got Retrospective Design.

4. Where do you sell your products?
I sell my work through my website www.retrospectivedesign.com. You can email your orders to me at info@retrospectivedesign.com. You can also check me out on etsy at www.retrospectivedesign.etsy.com

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to a few different message boards, some just for women and some for business. I love theswitchboards.com and I’m a member of indiepublic.com.

6. What inspires you?
My customers’ photos inspire me most. I love seeing their favorite images. I also love looking at different patterns, shapes and lines to get ideas for a new design.

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
I spend time with my husband and my family. We love watching movies and just hanging out. I also enjoy cooking and trying out new recipes.

8. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
I usually take a break. Sometimes I just need to get away from work and think about other things. That’s usually when I get my best ideas.

9. Do you have any quirks or obsessions you care to share?
I’m addicted to reality TV. I can’t help it. I watch almost all of it… Big Brother, The Hills, I could go on.

10. What’s your favorite color?
Sometimes it changes, but usually the warm colors like red, deep pinks, orange or golden yellows.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
This is hard. I love food! Probably Mexican though. I love chicken and spinach enchiladas and then some fried ice cream for dessert.

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Actually neither, but if I had to pick, it’d be coffee. Only if it’s a mocha frappuccino though. I usually get a cherry coke.

Saturday: Mod Tulips bag set

2007-08-25T09:08:00.000-05:00

Isn't this a great set??? Love the mod/vintage fabric. I could hardly decide which fabulous bag to feature. I loved them all! Find it at Candy Argyle Designs.

Friday Fish Fry: Crish, not fish

2007-08-24T21:06:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it's only part fish but I love this whimsical print. Part crow, part fish. Ha! Find it at Studio Spiral.

Thursday: Sun & Moon cards

2007-08-23T09:22:00.000-05:00

First of all, let me apologize for no pick of the day yesterday. Blogger was giving me a hard time and I couldn't get on! There, I feel better...now on to today's pick...

I adore this set of Sun & Moon letterpress notecards. I especially love the quotes from Copernicus & Galilei printed on them. Find them at Lizard Press.

Tuesday: Soap 2 Go

2007-08-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

What a good idea! Keep this Soap to Go in your purse or diaper bag and whenever you find the public bathroom lacking in soap (it often is, right??), whip out this baby and scrub up! Find it at Angie's Suds 'n' Such.

Monday: This is...SOAP

2007-08-20T08:42:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it? Fruit Loop Soap! You'll also find popcorn soap, gummy bear soap, cupcake soap... Find them all at Good Clean Fun.

Sunday Brunch Special: Mairzey Dotes

2007-08-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I’m actually a veterinarian. Don’t get me wrong…I love the animal biz. But after having 2 children, I decided I would rather have more time at home. So, I ventured into Mairzey Dotes. I create baby blankets from chenille and modern, vintage prints. 100% cotton. 100% washable!
2. Where are you located?
We originally began the biz in Chicago, but recently moved to Indianapolis. Really, you can only have so many kids, pets, and sewing projects in a teeny tiny downtown condo!
3. How did you come up with your business name?
It’s from a silly children’s song. The song has been a favorite to many generations in our family. Mairzey dotes and dozey dotes and little lambzied ivy….
4. Where do you sell your products?
www.mairzeydotes.com.
5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
The Switchboards, The Designer Only Lounge at the Daily Stroll, and Trunkt.
6. Read any good books lately?
Ha! I think the last book I read was something about potty training a toddler. Let’s just say, I didn’t get the book completely read…and he’s not potty trained yet! I actually just started reading “The 5 People You Meet in Heaven.” Not too far into yet…let’s see how long it takes me to finish a “short read.”
7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
Play with my kids, work in my garden, shop…and I definitely keep busy with all of the other aspects of my business.
8. What’s your favorite color?
Blue…all shades!

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
I’m a sucker for a Reuben sandwich and greasy fries!
2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Coffee. Black.

Saturday: Counting Ants

2007-08-18T08:54:00.001-05:00

I think I found a new favorite artist. Her art is amazing. I especially love this print of a girl watching the ants go by. It's something my daughter would do :) Find it at annejulie.

Friday Fish Fry: Three Wishes Print

2007-08-17T09:18:00.000-05:00

Love this print! Lots of texture & other cool elements. Find it at littleandwee.

Thursday: Plum Blossoms

2007-08-16T09:47:00.000-05:00

I...LOVE...this...necklace! I can't explain it, it's just that it is sooo gorgeous. Find it at pleasebloom.

Wednesday: Pillow Cover

2007-08-15T09:27:00.000-05:00

Do your pillows need a little snazzing up? This awesome cotton pillow cover has a cool screen printed design of summer weeds in a gorgeous shade of smoky blue. Find it at skinny laminx.

Tuesday: Beeswax Bird

2007-08-14T07:59:00.000-05:00

How unique! I can just picture this sweet little bird sitting on my bookshelf or on my windowsill. He even has a glittering crown. Find him at Jennifer Conway.

Monday: Oh, my favorite flower

2007-08-13T08:24:00.000-05:00

I absolutely adore daisies. They are my favorite flower...so simple and sweet. This 3x3 print of beautiful daisies is mounted on a recycled barn-wood frame. Find it at Rebecca Tolk Photography.

Sunday Brunch Special: Plays with Mud

2007-08-12T21:06:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I've always been fascinated by the "finished product." The process of taking raw materials and turning them into something tangible and functional is so inspiring; the fact that a big chunk of clay can be morphed into a beautiful bowl is just so cool.
Plays With Mud is a collection of all the things I love to make. Pottery, belts, paper goods ... you name it, I've probably made it. Right now, I make a lot of custom gifts for people. I love it when someone comes to me and asks if I could make a birthday gift for their friend, or a Christmas present for their mom. It totally makes my day!

2. Where are you located?
Plays With Mud is in the growing township of Fort Mill, South Carolina, just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
I wanted something that was fun and playful ... not too serious but still indicative of the products that I create. At the time I came up with the name, I was getting a lot of requests for my pottery pieces. I wanted something that was memorable, and I searched far and wide for a URL address that was available. Plays With Mud reminded me of the notes you got from your teacher in grade school ... plays well with others, runs with scissors, etc. Although my product line has evolved to include fabric and paper goods, I believe that the fun and playfulness of my business name is still captured in the work that I do.

4. Where do you sell your products?
While I'm anticipating some future retail partnerships, currently my products are sold through my website www.playswithmud.com. I recently listed some one-of-a-kind (and quite cute) bookmarks on Etsy www.etsy.com/playswithmud.

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I am a proud member of the Charlotte Craft Mafia, an affiliate of the larger and original Austin Craft Mafia. I participate in several online forums for independent businesses, my favorite of which is The Switchboards.

6. What inspires you?
So many things. Sorting through and organizing all my supplies; walking through the craft store; taking a field trip to the fabric store (MECCA!!); reading crafty blogs; spending time with other crafty folk; visiting and vending at craft and art shows. I have a very large sketchbook that contains more ideas than I'll ever have time to work on. I love reading about how other designers have started their businesses and what motivates them to continue.

7. What would be your dream job?
While building and maintaining Plays With Mud would be my dream job, I would "settle" to be a designer at a large-scale craft manufacturer; developing new product ideas, new designs, and new uses for old products. Crafty ideas + corporate benefits = Paula's dream job.

8. Do you have any quirks or obsessions you care to share?
One of my quirks is that I don't have any "favorites." It seems so finite for me to choose one thing over the other. I have "preferences," but it's always been challenging for me to answer those emails or surveys that come around asking for your favorite food or color, etc.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Ok, I'm gonna have to negate my earlier comment about not having any favorites with these next two questions!! :-)
Hands down, my hubby's grilled shrimp and scallops. He uses this (top secret) seasoning that we got when we were honeymooning in the BVIs. I can't order shrimp in restaurants anymore because it's always a disappointment when compared to his version!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
This is a tough one - I love love love my coffee in the morning, but I hate being a slave to caffeine; I switched to decaf for a while, but really, what's the point?? Then again, there's something so relaxing and peaceful about enjoying a cup of tea in the afternoon. Again with the favorites ... can I have both? :-)

Saturday: Recycled Market Bag

2007-08-11T08:34:00.000-05:00

I've always loved the idea of these bags made from recycled plastic grocery bags. So much better than having them end up in the landfill. Find these at Crafty Kathi.

Friday Fish Fry: Fish Mirror

2007-08-10T08:52:00.000-05:00

Everyone should have a mirror in their purse, right? Why not this very cute fishy one? Find it at Miss Bella's Room.

Thursday: A Birdie Thank You

2007-08-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

I love this Thank You card. It has birds...need I say more? Find it and other lovely greeting cards at Empty George.

Wednesday: Girls Best Friend Wallet

2007-08-08T08:59:00.000-05:00

Looking for a new wallet? Well, here's one that will fit the bill ;) Lots of places to keep all your cash, cards & more. Find it at Jenna Lou.

Tuesday: Fun for the Fridge!

2007-08-07T09:08:00.000-05:00

I'm diggin' these very unique magnets. The design is a ginkgo leaf on polymer clay, painted, then distressed. Find them at Block Party Press.

Monday: Leather Journal

2007-08-06T08:44:00.000-05:00

Keep your deepest, darkest secrets or your wildest thoughts & dreams in this gorgeous mint green leather journal. What a treasure. Find it at KreativLink.

Sunday Brunch Special: Lana Kessler Pottery

2007-08-05T09:22:00.000-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I’m a Brooklyn born potter who has resided in New Jersey for over 35 years . I’m married and have two grown children. I have a B A degree in graphic design and I have been a potter for the past ten years, Although I do functional work, my true love is in alternative firing. (raku and smoke fire)

2. Where are you located?
Manalapan in Monmouth County, New Jersey

3. How did you come up with your business name?
I use my name only

4. Where do you sell your products?
My pots have been shown in Evolve in Fair Haven, NJ and The Moon and Sixpence in Spring Lake, NJ. and other local galleries. I had an invitational one-woman month-long show at the Monmouth County Main library for the past two years. I sell at the juried Monmouth Festival of the Arts once a year (for the past 8 years) and the State-wide Juried Art Show at the Art Alliance in Red Bank, NJ, (also the past 8 years) where I have also been an award winner. Currently I do five or six craft fairs a year and a group show with a jeweler and weaver right before Christmas season. I am currently working on a website (I was pushed into the computer age Kicking and Screaming) Lana Kessler Pottery

5. Do you belong to any local and/or web groups or affiliations?
I belong to the Arts Council (it runs the Baltimore Craft Fair and others)

6.What inspires you?
Form and shape. Ancient pottery had exquisite form and shape and I find it inspirational. I’m in love with these classic shapes and love to alter them into a modern day mode

7. When you’re not making things, what do you do?
I garden and take care of lots of stray animals, feed birds and squirrels and anything else that might stop by.

8. What would be your dream job?
It would have to be two jobs. One – clay and doing pottery and Two - taking care of stray dogs and cats. When I win the lottery (not if) I will set up a no-kill shelter staffed with vets and kind volunteers.

9. What’s the most difficult aspect of running your biz?
I hate to market myself. I could market other peoples crafts (provided I liked their work), but find it very difficult blowing my own horn.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1 What is your favorite meal?
Breakfast – eggs, toast, etc.

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Love coffee – hate tea (even though I make teapots and tea sets)

Saturday: Cool water

2007-08-04T09:03:00.001-05:00

This gorgeous necklace reminds me of a day at the ocean. It's so cool and refreshing. Maybe it's the amazing white jade or the awesome brushed metal tab. I'm lovin' it! Find it at Pinkfire Designs.

Friday Fish Fry: Fish Plushie

2007-08-03T09:49:00.000-05:00

Adorable button-dotted fish. I think the detail is fabulous. Don't let this one get away! Find him at Beehive Hairdo.

Thursday: Knitware Cups

2007-08-02T07:44:00.000-05:00

How cool are these cups? They look like a cable knit sweater. I love them. Find them and other knitware designs at alyssa ettinger design.

Wednesday: Monster Alphabet

2007-08-01T09:28:00.000-05:00

These prints are just so cute, even for monsters :) The whole alphabet is represented in the form of a monster. Find them at Monster Gallery.

Tuesday: Paintings on pennies!

2007-07-31T09:22:00.000-05:00

This is a notecard set of 5 that feature fantastic hand-painted pennies. It's just extraordinary. I'm very impressed that anyone can paint on such a small canvas :) Find it at Rebel 1 in 8.

Monday: A darling Pencil Case

2007-07-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

School is starting soon and how great would it be for your child to pull out this adorable Little Red Hiding Hood pencil case from her backpack instead of some boring one like everyone else? You know you want it! Find it at Cotton & Cloud.

Sunday Brunch Special: Sophie & Spice

2007-07-29T08:47:00.001-05:00

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie business.
I have a BFA in Illustration from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia. I used to do a lot of editorial collage illustration and I also design youth sports posters for photographers. After my daughter was born, I was inspired to create children's items. Right now I sell name plaques, mommy calling cards, and children's photo collages. I am working on wall art and onesies.

2. Where are you located?
I live in the Philadelphia suburbs and work from my home studio.

3. How did you come up with your business name?
Sophie is my daughter's name. I wanted something that would evoke the playfulness of childhood and the funky, modern look of my designs.

4. Where do you sell your products?
Right now they are sold on my own site, www.sophieandspice.com. I am looking into other online retailers for some of my products.

5. Do you ever get stumped for ideas? How do you work through it?
Ideas are the main aspect of being an illustrator. I just sit down with a pen and paper and let my mind go. Sometimes I need to get out 100 bad ideas before nailing down that one great one. I also find it helpful to look for inspiration in everything around me.

6. What would be your dream job?
I would love for Sophie and Spice to get to a point where I can manufacture and wholesale boutique quality items. I'd also love to do fine art and show in galleries.

7. Do you have any quirks or obsessions you care to share?
Though I would have made fun of it as a teenager, I love American Idol. I'm also a really big Queen fan and am notorious for singing their songs during karaoke.

9. What's the most difficult aspect of running your biz?
It can be hard to project how much work I will have on any given week. When I have a lot of work on my plate, I focus on that. During slow times, I focus on marketing, new designs, cleaning my studio, etc. Since I work from home, I think it's also important to let people know that you work during certain hours. You don't want your mother-in-law constantly calling during business hours, and you don't want clients always calling at night. I have to be clear about that, otherwise it would be impossible to separate home life and work.

Ok, now these two are mandatory and I have to ask (this being a diner, after all)

1. What is your favorite meal?
Pretty much anything Italian, with red wine and my own tiramisu for dessert!

2. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Coffee.

Saturday: Very cool wristlet

2007-07-28T08:44:00.001-05:00

I think this bag is just fantastic! Love the blend of dark wine colored vinyl & this lovely print of green trees & black birds. Find it at Three Green Apples.

Friday Fish Fry: Origami Fish Earrings

2007-07-27T07:57:00.000-05:00

How cute are these? Little origami fish earrings. Find them at Tiny Shiny.

Thursday: Baby Blue Pod Earrings

2007-07-26T08:21:00.000-05:00

I love the mix of soft blue and rustic brass. The baby blue glass beads are vintage - love it! Find them at Handmade Catalog.

Wednesday: Darling Mouse

2007-07-25T07:44:00.000-05:00

Just look at the fabulous detail in this little mouse. Felted wool forms this sweet thing and she carries a darling little acorn basket. Find it at Motley Mutton.

Tuesday: Polka Dot hair clips

2007-07-24T08:51:00.000-05:00

I love these cute little retro hair clips for little (or big) girls. Colorful felt dots add a little spice to your darlings hair. Find them at One Girlie Girl.