GUEST POST WITH STUDIO 336

The lovely Erin invited me to guest post over at her blog, Studio 336 today.
You should go check it out :)

Featured Artist + Shop Owner: Katia of Solé

Welcome to another installment of the Featured Artist + Shop Owner series, where I hand pick artists that have inspired me through their art and businesses. Today I am honored to showcase Katia of Solé and blogger behind Kitty Snooks.

shop | blog | twitter | instagram

1. Tell us about the artist behind the shop! A little background about your favorite things, inspirations or quirks!

My name is Katia and I'm a goofball of an art student working towards my B.Des. in Illustration! Illustration may be what I'm aiming to do in my career, but my fascination with the creative world doesn't end there. I basically love... well.... everything that can be considered art - and I love participating in it too, even if just for fun! I'm talking music, literature, writing, fashion, film, photography, design, painting, sculpting, textile work, etc. etc. etc. etcetera. I also have an inexplicable affinity towards pugs and Star Wars (ok, it's not inexplicable - it's because they're freakin' awesome) I also really like to play Tetris battle, but I'm a sore loser and quit the application every time I lose. If I am not doing any of the aforementioned things, I can be found trying to convince myself to do some yogalates, working at a local patisserie serving up lattes and French buttery goodness or spending time with my room mate and friends and family.

2. How did Solé first start? What is the story behind the name?

As I mentioned in my last answer I have a keen interest in a lot of everything. So I guess Solé was an attempt at combining at least a few of these things and making them wearable. From this initial thought and after many prototypes and scrapped concepts, I finally landed on the designs I am now selling through Solé! I've also, as long as I can remember, been interested in selling my creations. When I was about 9 or 10 I made and sold friendship bracelets to my classmates to fundraise for MS. I made a good couple hundred of dollars and took many custom orders for colours and designs daily. I still remember my little 'orders' page at the back of my agenda! The name Solé comes from the french 'Soleil' meaning sun. Those of you who know me or read my blog know I have a sun tattoo, and that the sun is powerfully symbolic to me. (Do I sound like a crazy hippie artist yet? Yes? GOOD.) It has so much to do with happiness and the power of positivity, and I wanted a name for my business to be something that would remain important to me forever.

3. What is your inspiration for using wood as your media?

I love nature, and living in a big, concrete city, it's often overwhelming to have so little nature around me (though we do have a lot of parks here, but they're not exactly in my day-to-day commute or routine with school downtown.) I love working with wood as a medium in general (painting on, carving, building, etc.) and so finding a way to make it wearable was such an obvious decision to me. All my necklaces/rings/products are made of natural, untreated wood. I literally find a branch of the appropriate diameter, slice it into little medallions, and work from that. Don't worry, I'm not tearing branches off trees, I always use already-trimmed branches or ones off the ground. One of my sets of medallions is made from a branch I snatched when my mom's neighbour's silver maple tree died and they needed to take it down. Another was from my parents' backyard when they had to trim half of an Acadia tree that was growing into our house. It's fun to know exactly which tree and what story my materials are from.

4. You had wonderful jewelry pieces! Have you thought about making other kinds of products?

Perhaps... yes! I'm super interested in the world of up-cycled, eco-friendly fashion that helps reduce the amount of material waste we create every year. Did you know each individual wastes about 68 pounds of fabric/material every year? I don't know where this statistic is from (I assume North America as I heard it in a video regarding Value Village) but it's a scary one. I'd love to branch into that part of the fashion world and work on new products. I have a few ideas up my sleeve, and I definitely intend on working on them soon!

5. Having a handmade shop is a huge responsibility in itself, how do you balance that with work and school?

Yeesh. I don't even know. I guess I've made most of my Solé work enjoyable. I can take 'a break' from school work and make a few pieces. Or I can put together my necklaces while I'm watching a tv show in my spare time. I'm still getting the hang of it all, but I've been maintaining good grades in school, am working a new job, and keeping up with Solé somehow! So I must be doing something right. I keep myself as organized as possible with to-do lists, a binder with all my receipts and expenses, a spreadsheet with my spending vs. income, etc. etc.

6. What is your favorite part about owning your own company? Other tips for those who want to start?

The satisfaction that comes from seeing someone wear my product. It's honestly amazing. And I get all dorky about it still, like a friend walks in and is wearing it and I can't help but say "Oh hey, nice necklace ya got there." I wonder if I'll ever grow out of this habit, haha! I was also interviewed by a local university's news team for an article about student entrepreneurs - it was SO cool to read, and they referred to me by my last name, which was totally rad and professional feeling.

Tips for starters would be to not be discouraged by business starting out slow. The amount of blogger comments you get exclaiming their love for their product (for example) do not equal to sales, as much as we wish they did. And that's ok! It means you've generated interest, that's what matters. Same goes for craft shows. My first craft show was SOO not the right audience for my products, but I still got a lot of great feedback, met some fascinating people, and felt great about myself after! I like to look at it, for the moment, as an experience as opposed to a money maker. Though of course, it'd be nice to do both ;)

7. This is just the beginning for Solé! What can we expect in the future?

Wonderful wonderful things. I really hope to expand it bit by bit, and to really explore my options in terms of designs. I've kept it simple so far, but I definitely want to add to it and branch away from just jewellery (As I mentioned before!). I'm excited!

So guess what! As readers of Melissa's blog, you guys can get 10% off any Solé purchase you make in December, January, or February using the code MELISSA10. The best part? My prices are already current reduced for the holiday season, so if you're looking for a one of a kind present and are interested in handmade - I hope you'll take a peek at Solé!

Thank you for featuring me on your lovely lovely blog, Melissa!

Isn't she the absolute precious?
Thank you Katia for the interview and I can't wait to see what's in store for you and your art! Readers, be sure to snag some unique pieces for you or your friends. I am picking out mine as we speak! :) Check out more artists I have featured here.

Featured Artist + Shop | Lo of Printed Peaks

Do you remember this blog post where I wore that awesome statement necklace? Well, I haven't stopped wearing it since. Actually, I think it would be considered my most worn necklace since my tree/sapphire combo back in high school. Here's a little reminder if you've forgotten/were too lazy to click the old blog post link.

the necklace

Well, I have greatest honor of welcoming Lo, the artist behind Printed Peaks, where I got this amazing necklace from! I'm thrilled to have her on this little blog of mine. Okay, enough with my chitter chatter. Get to know Lo, she's a lot cooler :)

Shop | Blog | Twitter

1. Tell us a little bit about the artist behind Printed Peaks!
I'm Lo and I blog over at Little Somethings by Little Lo Hood. I absolutely love crafting and being outdoors. I also love libraries and soaking up as much knowledge about anything I can.

2. What's your inspiration for your shop?
I had always wanted a shop and still want a physical shop but I thought Etsy was a perfect place to start. I just had really no idea what I wanted to sell. I finally decided that I should make something that represented my home state of Vermont, which I had just moved away from and missed dearly. I decided to collaborate with my father and use wooden pieces cut in ways to abstractly represent Vermont mountains. Many of my original necklaces are named after mountains in Vermont.

3. What's your favorite part about owning your own business?
I love that I can take my time in handcrafting something that I know I can be proud of. It gives you the freedom to create items that you really want to create. You can experiment and see what works and what doesn't.

4. Any other passions and hobbies you have?
I love sewing, crocheting, soccer, biking, hiking, and just enjoying the outdoors.

5. What's up and coming for Printed Peaks?
Printed Peaks has moved more towards leather handcrafted items and I may start making little wallets and such for the shop. The wooden handcrafted pieces will certainly still be there and I think I will be experimenting with some different colors and stains.

6. What advice would you give for someone thinking about opening up their own handmade shop?
I would say that you should keep a notebook with you always. It is so important to brand your store appropriately right down to the packaging. It is also important to sell something that is unique and that you won't grow tired of making or working on. Don't be discouraged if you don't sell out in a day either, there are a lot of sellers on Etsy and out in the world, just keep at it!

I feel like Lo and I would be great friends, in real life. I mean, she makes jewelry inspired by mountains and I love my mountains. Be sure to check out her shop! I've got my eyes on this baby and oooh this one! I'm excited for those leather made goods! Thank you Lo for droppin' by!

EDIT + GOOD NEWS! -- March 20, 2012

Because it's Lo's birthday today, she is offering everyone 44% OFF any item in her shop! Here's the info straight from her blog!

"For the rest of this month I will be offering 44% off in my store, Printed Peaks. I added the date and my years of age if you were wondering about the funny number. Enter "SPRINGBIRTHDAY44" during check out and one of my pretties will be on its way to your front door. The first 3 purchases will get an extra gift as well." 

Featured Artist + Shop | Another Feather

Welcome to another installment of Featured Artist. I am so happy to introduce you to Hannah, the beautiful artist behind Another Feather. I bought my first Another Feather utensil earrings a year or so ago and absolutely love them! She lives in Asheville with her husband Malcom who makes leather goods in his shop. Read more about her inspirations and her story :)

Etsy | Facebook | Twitter

1. Tell us a little about yourself and another feather

I live and work in the beautiful city of Asheville, NC. Everything is made by me using found objects and traditional metal smithing techniques and tools in my home studio located in the River Arts District.My line includes one of a kind metal made jewelry, found object assemblages, and simple everyday adornments. Each piece is slightly one of a kind, due to naturally unique imperfections, and evidence of the hand at work. Rustic and worn, all jewelry is given special attention to detail, and is often made from objects found on travels, flea market excursions, and walks through the woods.

I am primarily an artist, and have a Studio art degree in both Metals/Jewelry & Fibers. Before Another Feather I only made conceptual sculptural jewelry or large scale installation gallery work. Another Feather has opened up the design side of my work, and has given me a way to support myself financially with a production line, while still making my artwork. My business has also made a way for me to make my jewelry affordable for a younger low budget crowd, those (like myself) who maybe can’t afford to buy the one of a kind art jewelry I make, but what to have something with the same style and ideas behind it.

2. When and how did another feather come about?
Honestly I started Another Feather completely by accident in 2009. At the time I was a full time student (studying Studio Art), and had a part time job working in an art gallery. I had made a few samples that I enjoyed making, but took no time at all, as studies for bigger things I was working on in my Metals courses. Some local friends wanted to buy them, and suggested I open an etsy shop. So I did, with five whole items in it (really rubbish items I might add). They all sold in the following weeks, so I started to replenish with more samples.
That summer, I had some free time, and started making some fun affordable and wearable pieces and slowly adding them to my etsy shop. Then overnight I starting having sales daily, and then a few weeks later I got an unexpected call, From NBC’s Today Show. They wanted to feature 10 pieces of my jewelry, which were to be overnighted to their NYC studio on their tab. I thought it was a joke, but I did it, and there my jewelry was two weeks later on national television (I didn’t even have a television, so I caught it at a friends). All that to say, I was not prepared in the slightest to run a business, I had never even thought about it. I was so very lucky and blessed to be able to get on my feet so quickly and form a business.

3. What are your most popular items?
That's a tough one, it really depends on the season. Some month's I'll completely sell out of one necklace and then a few weeks later won't sell a single one. I pretty regularly sell a lot of feather globe necklaces, the quartz & layered chain necklace, antler slice necklaces, and a good amount of studs and cicada wings. 

4. What is your favorite medium to work with?

Metal of course (silver and brass especially), found objects from nature and from my travels, and any sort of fibers (ie. wool, cotton, leather, linen, silk)

5. What's up and coming for another feather?

I am about to release our newest line for S/S 2012, and debut our brand new lookbook that we just got done shooting last weekend! We are also preparing for the upcoming season of Markets and trade shows, and adding a few new one's on the West Coast to our line up!

Hannah's story is absolutely beautiful and inspiring, which shows directly from the jewelry she creates. Thank you for letting us peek into your studio and creations! I have a feeling all of you will be owning your own Another Feather piece very soon :)

Featured Shop: Elgie Designs & A GIVEAWAY!

I am EXTREMELY happy to present to my readers a great local artist from Boone, Laura who is the face and creator of Elgie Designs! We were brought together by mutual friends from Appalachian and I am so happy to showcase her shop. I feel honored to host a giveaway with her beautiful jewelry. Without further adieu!

Esty Shop || Facebook

Getting to know Laura:

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself Laura and why you decided to open shop!
Well, my name is Laura Guidry. I'm a sophomore at Appalachian State University. I've flirted with several majors and I'm starting to think Interdisciplinary Studies might stick...at least this semester. I like writing, crafting, the cello and I'm fairly certain several friends are planning an intervention for my coffee addiction. I opened shop so I could channel my exploits in crocheting and knitting into something productive. I became addicted and there were not enough days in a year to handle the amount of earrings I was making so I figured I should share the crochet love.

2. What's the background behind the name Elgie designs?

The name Elgie designs comes courtesy of my best friend Chloe. She decided way back in high school that my initials sort of resembled an old lady name so we just spelled it out and a nickname was born. The nickname has stuck since then and who knows, maybe when I'm a old lady wearing enough crochet/knitted accessories to be confused for an Afghan, my grandkids will call me Elgie too.

3. Whose/What is your store inspiration? 

Hmm....where does my inspiration come from... I like bold, funky accessories that tell a story. You know, that weird bracelet that your uncle brought back from vacation that you're not sure where it is from and is hanging on by one thread but by golly, has an awesome loud print. So, my inspiration probably comes from all around... traveling, different textures, yarn, that really cool bead from Beadbox or that old scarf that looked like it was craving some unraveling so it could take a new shape. And hopefully, my inspiration turns into some pretty nifty creations, the ones that show off your personality and are a little offbeat and funky. And never the same as the next.

4. What's your favorite part of being a handmade shop owner? 

My favorite part of being a handmade shop owner is, well, when people wear my designs! It's the coolest feeling to see someone incorporate something you made into their style and completely own it. You sort have to fight the feeling of a mom before their kid gets their driving permit...you know what I'm talking about, the feeling like you want to whip a camera out and have them pose despite the potential of completely embarrassing them. Gosh.

5. What's next for Elgie designs? 

Lots of crocheting and creating because Elgie designs will be at Boone's Art Crawl, February 3rd at Lucky Penny! You can also find some earrings made just for you on etsy as well as in Asheboro at Colorshow Gallery and in Wilmington at Lula Balou and Aqua Fedora. I'm working on some new designs so if you go to ASU and see a girl wearing a funny looking necklace (or is that a necklace) yarn creation, it's probably me, trying to figure out a new design and getting emotionally attached to a failed attempt. Don't you worry though, there will be plenty of lovely things for you at Art Crawl and on etsy!

Isn't she just so cute and lovely! Here's a little glimpse of what she creates!

Check out her shop for more items.

GIVEAWAY!
One of you ah-mazing readers will have a chance to win a pair of yellow crocheted earrings AND a brown crochet necklace! How lucky of you. I'm so jealous. I'm dying for one of each!

Here's how to enter:

MANDATORY: [Leave ONE comment]
(1) Visit her shop, tell me your favorite item, AND like her shop on Facebook! Leave me a comment afterwards with your email letting me know you did this and so I can contact you!

OPTIONAL: [Leave a SEPARATE comment for each]
(2) Add Elgie Designs to your favorites on Etsy!
(3) Follow this blog via GFC or Bloglovin'
(4) Share this giveaway via Twitter, Facebook or Blog about it! Be sure to leave your link in the comment. If you tweet about it, tweet me so I can see it! (@mashleyvega)
(5) Leave me your favorite quote!

Wow FIVE entries for this wonderful giveaway :)

Giveaway is open until midnight Friday, Feb. 3, 2012.

Winner will be announced Saturday, Feb 4, 2012.

Be sure to visit Laura at Lucky Penny in Boone for her trunk show during Art Crawl on Friday, Feb. 3!
Support your local artists + shops! 

Featured Artist + Shop: Chelsea of Leather and Copper

I've started a new FEATURE blog series, where I'd like to showcase some talent and passions of artists and shop owners all around I've come to get to know and admire! It won't necessarily be a weekly blog series, but I'm going to post them as often as possible.

For the first blog post, meet my adorable and even more talented friend Chelsea.

Shop || Facebook || Pinterest

The interview:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself. Your quirks, favorite color, anything!

My name is Chelsea Brendle and I am a senior at Appalachian State University.  I am studying Art Education, Art History, and Studio Art. Let's see...my quirks? Oh dear...too many to name, I'm sure!  One might be that about 75% of my closet is made up of thrift store finds!  (Which reminds me - we definitely need to have a GW trip soon, Melissa!)  My favorite color is grey.  I know it sounds boring, but it is really just so beautiful.

2. How did you decide to open up a shop? What was your inspiration for Leather and Copper?

I started Leather & Copper in May of 2010.  I had been dabbling in other crafty areas and had already started an Etsy shop for those, but I became much more serious about this one.  It all started when I just decided to check out the Tandy Leather store.  I came home with a starter kit for leather tooling and I knew that I had found something that I loved!

3. How do you juggle being a college student and handmade shop owner?

Being a handmade shop owner is kind of perfect for being a student.  I have always wanted to have a job while at school, but didn't know if I would have enough time; this way I can choose my own hours, do something that I love, and even make a little bit of income from it!  I also have this weird thing where I kind of like to be busy (I have never taken less than 18 hours a semester!), so it works out well!

4. What are the things that inspire you most?

I have a confession: I am a Pinterest addict. Matt (my boyfriend) tells me I spend way too much time on there, but he just doesn't understand.  A lot of inspiration comes from there - colors, patterns, designs - but a lot also comes from art classes as well.  I love seeing different art motifs from around the world, and art history classes are wonderful for that.  Oftentimes, I have more inspiration than time to actually make the pieces! I definitely need to get better about that! I have a feeling that I will be adding a lot more stuff to the store soon, so stay tuned!

5. What are some future plans for your etsy shops and well, life?

I am going to finally sit down and make a lot of new inventory, so that should be coming soon to Leather & Copper!  I also sell my goods at Ruby's Gift in NoDa in Charlotte, but I am hoping to also get them in some local stores in Boone.  As for life...whew...I wish I knew! haha.  I will be taking my last semester of classes now, and then student-teaching in the Fall.  After school, I would absolutely love to find a job in the arts.  I definitely want to be an art teacher, but I would also be happy in any art setting.  I definitely want to travel as well - there is such an amazing world out there that I can't wait to get out and see!  Whatever happens, I want to continue Leather & Copper and keep working on my own art!

Thanks so much, Melissa! Your blog is amazing - I always look forward to your posts!

Her work:

 Journal | Cuff | Flask Cover | Feather Bookmark | Layered Triangle Necklace | Multicolor Cuff

Isn't she adorable?! And isn't her shop just wonderful? I definitely need to grab one of her cuffs before we both split after college. I hope you enjoyed her little interview and definitely check out her shop! I love having talented and crafty friends like her :) Also, I know that she LOVES custom orders so be sure to shoot her a message on etsy or email her! So a big thank you to Chelsea for taking the time to let me interview you and share your art with the blogging world!

*All featured artists are handpicked by me and I am in no way compensated for the featured posts on my blog. I just want to share the talents and passions of different artists all around! Support your local artists.