10. Featured Artist + Shop Owner | A Girl Named Leney

 

Original photo by: Meagan Abell

Talk about someone you want to grab some coffee or tea with! For the 10th edition of Featured Artist + Shop Owner, I am thrilled to introduce Leney, the girl behind A Girl Named Leney. Her handmade shop features knitted wear and jewelry to keep you extra warm and fashionable. Her photography and blog constantly inspire me to practice what I love and find a way to keep it relevant. I'll stop rambling and let her do all the talking now :)

Shop | Blog | Twitter | Instagram

1. Introduce yourself and some background info :)
My name is Leney and I'm an artist who resides in Virginia where there's both a little country and a little city. I find inspiration in both! I work full time designing and creating things for my Etsy shop which holds a variety of knits and jewelry pieces. Additionally, I'm also a part time photographer. Taking photos is another one of my many passions! When I'm not knitting or taking pictures, you can find me making lists of everything, thrifting, watching Gilmore Girls, finding excuses to travel and taking care of a bunny named Lewis.

2. What initiated this love and passion for knitting? How did it develop into owning a shop?
My grandmother taught me how to knit when I was eight years old. I remember sitting on our taupe colored couch in the living room of my old house fumbling with these red plastic needles and multi colored purple and green yarn (which, at the time, I thought was beautiful). It took a year or two for knitting to become the obsession it is for me now, but I've pretty much loved it ever since. I grew up being a very artsy child though. I learned how to sew at a young age as well and I was always known for making things and being creative. I had the dream to open up an online shop to sell my creations early on (though as a kid it started as setting my stuff up on a table at the end of my driveway), and when I heard about Etsy a few years ago that dream became a reality!

3. Where do you find the biggest inspirations for your products?
This is such a hard question! I honestly find inspiration in so many things. I think vintage fashion is really fun and something I always love looking at, whether it's on blogs or in magazines. Often though I find inspiration in the materials I work with as well. Whether I'm at the fabric store and I find a bolt of fabric that I can instantly see it as a new clutch or when I'm at the yarn shop and I spy some pretty grey wool yarn for some new mittens! It really depends... my ideas come out of nowhere sometimes. Other times it's a collaborative effort. For instance, a friend of mine liked all the knit animals I'd started making and asked if I could make him a crocodile. Which was something I honestly had never thought about doing before.
So working with people and their ideas fuels a lot of my inspiration as well!

4. What made you take a huge step into becoming an independent business-owner? Have any tribulations you'd love to share?
All growing up my parents always told me I could do whatever I wanted to do. Nothing was impossible if it was a dream of mine and I worked hard enough for it. I definitely attribute a lot of my success thus far to their support! Otherwise though this is just something I've pretty much always wanted to do. Though I'm not where I need to be quite yet, I think I'm definitely well on the way there and I'm willing to do the work it takes to make it the rest of the way! It definitely has it's hard days, and sometimes I have a hard time motivating myself, but I try to remember why I love what I do and also that I'd way rather be trying to knit crocodiles and taking photos of newly engaged couples than sitting behind a desk all day making phone calls and doing paper work (though there are some days like that...)

5. What's your favorite part about owning your own shop?
Coming up with new designs! It's so much fun. I have a whole bunch of new ideas for the Spring that I'm getting really excited about. I really want to incorporate more sewing into what I do (my fabric stash is almost as big as my yarn stash). I have a dress design in particular that I want to expand upon and some bag ideas as well. So keep an eye out for those!

I also love writing little notes to my customers to include with their order. It let's me send a little love along with each package and that's always fun.

6. Are your products just on etsy? Anywhere else we can find them?
At the moment yes. During the holidays this past year they were featured in a local holiday shop or two, but currently they are just online. Though I am definitely working towards having some stuff in a local store or boutique in the near future!

7. Have any tips for those wanting to start a shop, but are hesitate?
Honestly I think if you want to do something badly enough, you can do it! It just takes a lot of hard work. A lot. And weird (often late) hours. You just have to be persistent and stay motivated and sometimes you even need to decide what you're willing to give up for what you want. Because most things worth having don't come without a little sacrifice. You will definitely have mishaps and challenges, but if it's your dream it will be worth it in the end!

I also try to keep in mind that nothing's really a failure if I've learned something from it.
I have to say though that my friends and family are a huge reason why I'm able to do what I do! Their support is nothing short of essential for me. They are my biggest fans, customers, and cheerleaders. A lot of them carry around my business cards to give to everyone they come in contact with, it's the sweetest thing. I definitely couldn't have gotten this far without them!

8. And because I love all things music, who is your favorite musical artist at the moment?
Oh goodness, another hard question! Admittedly I was jamming out to my Disney music playlist while working the other day… haha. But I think I have to say Beirut is one of my all time favorite bands. I never get tired of them. Especially the song Scenic World which reminds me of sailing and summertime.

Here is a glimpse of the items she sells on her shop. I just can't wait for my future purchases!

 

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Featured Artist + Shop Owner | Studio 336

I don't remember the moment or the details of how one of us stumbled upon each other's blog, but I thank my lucky stars it happened. I have so much respect and admiration for Erin and her blog/shop, Studio 336. Her work is fresh, professional, creative and versatile. After this interview, I respect her even more for sounding so realistic and grounded about owning your own handmade shop, but somehow finding a way to always stay inspired. Read along to discover her story behind Studio 336 and how it all began.

Blog | Shop | Twitter
THE INTERVIEW //

1. Introduce yourself! What are some interesting hobbies or quirks you have?

Hey, I'm Erin. I'm a maker of things, dreamer of dreams, and thinker of thoughts. I love to work, but when I'm not working I'm hanging out with the boyfriend, friends or family or wrangling up our three dogs. I'm also an avid reader of books and blogs. If I don't read at night, I struggle to fall asleep, and when the book's good, I still struggle.

2. I am so curious - what's the story behind your shop name?

Do you remember filling out worksheets in school when you were a kid? You know, the "what's your favorite color?" or "what did you do with your summer vacation?" questions.. well whenever I think about what I'm doing now, what I'm making of myself, I think back to a worksheet that used to hang on my dad's fridge. The question at the top of the sheet asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I wrote, in the chicken scratch of a 1st grader, that I wanted to be an artist. So, when I think back about about where all of this began, it always reminds me of that worksheet, in that house, and that's where 336 was derived, the house number.

3. How did you discover you loved creating decals?

Out of college I struggled to find a job, I mean what on earth was I supposed to do with a degree in art. Well, one day I stumbled upon an old sign shop where the owner was looking to sell and retire. I walked in and asked the man if he'd let me work with him for a few days to see how everything worked. He said yes, and three months later I owned my business. As much as I liked working for myself, making commercial decals that required no design work of my own wasn't doing it for me. So I started making things for myself. And then for family and friends. And the next thing I knew I was selling them on Etsy, too.

4. You run such a successful Etsy shop. What are some tips or secrets to staying on top of inventory, networking and creating?

Honestly, I'm still working on this one, but a schedule can make all the difference. Etsy orders come in at all hours, every day of the week. Setting aside certain times of the day to do certain tasks makes things much less stressful. I'm still learning how to put myself out there since it's easy to hide behind your shop when it's based on the internet. Learning who and how and where for networking is a matter of trial and error. Creative energy comes when it does and I've learned not to take advantage of it because you don't know when the next idea will strike.

5. What is your most popular item in your shop? Do you have a favorite to make?
I'd say the State Love decals are probably the most popular right now, but my favorite are the new magnet sets I've been making!

6. Do you just do online orders? Or have you worked with other vendors?
I primarily do online orders, but you can also find them in a few local shops (Hampton Roads, VA) and an assortment of others around the US, I have plans for expanding though so if you know of a shop where you'd love to see Studio 336 goods, let me know!

7. Do you listen to anything in particular while in the studio? Any music that puts you in the creative mood?
This might sound a little funny, but I tend to have Netflix on more than music when I'm in the studio. I can tune out the boring television easier than I can the music, and it still helps me to focus. Working from home, by yourself all day, it's nice to hear a little chatter in the background. But when I do go for music, when I'm up and moving around I listen to a lot of the Avett Brothers, Louis Armstrong and Frank Sinatra, Ingrid Michaelson. I really need to update my music collection.

8. What other crafts/diy are you interested in?
I've done a little bit of everything. I've dabbled in sewing, and felting, stamp making, block printing, screen printing, painting, wood working, jewelry making, book making, and darkroom printing. I've basically done it all, and I like doing it all. I have enough art/craft supplies to open up a store for that too.

9. What is in the future for you and Studio 336?
As far as my future, I just want to keep doing what I'm doing, and more. I like progress and change, so I like adding new things. I'd like to get back into jewelry making, so you might see a side of that soon. I really enjoy promoting other artists/makers and want to find a way to make that a bigger part of what I do. Ultimately, I'd love a brick and mortar shop of curated goods. But we'll just see what happens, a girl can always dream.

Here is a little glimpse of my favorite items!
(As soon as I move into my own home, I am definitely buying some of these!)

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Thank you Erin for letting us peek a little into your Studio!

Featured Artist | Emmanual José

I am happy to introduce to you Emmanual José, a creative soul with a knack for paper-cutting, photography and all things art. We actually met for the first time this past Halloween through mutual family friends and from then I just knew I had to share his unique talent! If you live in Raleigh, you have probably seen his artwork displayed at Jubala in Lafayette Village or Busy Bee in downtown. If you want to see his art, check out Cafe Helios! What I love most about this work is his dedication to create a new card each week and took something standard like playing cards and turned them into his own canvas. I'll stop boring you with my praise and let you get to know him yourself :)

 

Website | Twitter | Flickr | DeviantArt | Facebook

Be sure to follow him and watch his progress!

1. Introduce yourself. Hobbies, interests, quirks, favorite quotes? Anything!

Hi, I'm Emmanuel, and I'm a whole lot of P's: Pinoy, Painter, Photographer, Papercutter. I love art, I can eat anything, and capuchin monkeys scare me a little, haha.

My favorite quote is: 

"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

2. What sparked the interest to create one playing card a week?

In college, I started a series of playing card paintings, but my professor disliked them and I ended up painting other subject matter. After college, I ended up in a job that wasn't conducive to my creativity, and I was hungry to have art in my life again. I still wanted to do a playing card series and so as a personal challenge, I decided to make one card a week.

3. Recently your art has become your full-time commitment. How is your transition so far? Challenges?

The transition has been liberating but also admittedly scary since this is all new to me. I finally have the time to pursue art as a passion and as a career, and while I don't know yet how the future will unfold, I know that I owe it to myself to do what makes me happy. 

4. Where do you find your inspiration for creating each card for each deck?

More often than not, I have found inspiration when I'm away from home. I could be anywhere, but I get more ideas when I'm simply walking around, taking in all the sights around me. My mind has to wander figuratively and literally away from my normal surroundings for inspiration to arrive.

5. Can you walk us through a little bit of the process from brainstorming an idea of a card to actually creating it?

Sure. I usually begin by taking out a normal deck of cards and my sketchbook. I take a look at the card that I'm going to create and I mentally "fill in" the negative space around the pips (the suit symbols) to create a context. If I already have an idea for that specific card, the sketching and drawing process happens pretty quickly. If I don't know what I'm doing (which happens a lot), I make up stories or situations that occur within the world of that card, so to speak. 

I draw everything on a newsprint-like draft paper, and when I'm happy with the drawing, I overlay the draft paper over the black, white, or red paper that I want to cut. Sometimes I draw directly on the black, white, or red paper, but I prefer drawing on the draft paper since I do a lot of erasing and editing.

For the card itself, I make what I call the "base" first. The base is the white component of the card, and I trim the white paper and round the corners. I've made paper stock templates for all the index characters (the numerals and letters), and once I make the indices I affix them to the base. I create the "face" of the card last, and the face of the card is comprised of the larger pips and the idea for the card. I use a brand of double-sided tape to affix everything since wet adhesives will warp the paper.

Examples of his work. Rest of the interview below.

6. Besides paper-cutting and design, do you have any other art-related hobbies/interests?

Yes, painting is a longtime love of mine, and I'm excited to be able to do more of it. I only started photography in my last year of college, but I find it incredibly fascinating. There's still so much about the technical side of photography that I know nothing about, but it's a world I'm eager to explore.

7. What are some of your goals for your art?

I want to create art that is accessible. I wouldn't call my playing card art esoteric at all, because it's not meant to be. The original cards may be framed and hanging on walls, but the decks they become end up being held, shared, and played with. The meaning they take on in other people's hands go far beyond any meaning or idea I've presented on the cards. 

8. Do you listen to certain music while you're in the studio?

I listen to all genres of music, but I usually listen to slow to mid-tempo songs while I'm making art. I tend to create art slowly, so I like music that matches my pace. An example of a go-to musician for me is Oliver Tank.

Thank you for stopping by the blog and letting us peek into your creative process! I am absolutely blown away by each card and the concepts behind each one. I feel as though people can take something that they are used to (because we've all played with a deck of cards at least once in our lives right?) and get a chance to look at it in a different light. I wish you the best in all your future endeavors!

For more examples, please visit his website and follow him!

FEATURED ARTIST + SHOP OWNER: DEAR MOONBEAMS

 

blog | shop | twitter | pinterest

I have been following Megan's blog for quite some time now and actually won two of her giveaways (lucky me!). Most recently, I won this wonderful embroidery hoop from this giveaway! It is currently hanging up in my cubicle :) Anyway, I think her shop is absolutely adorable with embroidery hoops to make any house or space feel like home! Read along to learn more about her precious shop and her inspirations. Be sure to check out the READER'S COUPON at the bottom of the post! My readers will receive their own discount code :D So... what you waiting for? Read along and snag one of your own Dear Moonbeams embroidery hoops!

THE INTERVIEW

1. Introduce yourself and a little background info!
Hello! My name is Ms. Megan, I am 22 years old and I love reading, taking bike rides, baking up sweet treats, watching doctor who + pushing daisies, taking photos, playing with my cats, going thrifting, browsing book shops, taking long walks and drinking tea.

2. What inspired you to create an embroidery shop?

My dear friend AMY started embroidering as a hobby and she created the sweetest little hoop for me. I commented how talented she is at everything she does (she writes beautifully and takes the most enchanting photos!! I highly recommend checking out her BLOG!!) She told me how simple of a hobby it is to start and pointed me towards MOLLIE'S BLOG for tips and tricks for beginners and I just started from there!! I found more techniques online and I love watching movies + reading books for inspiration for the quotes that I stitch.

3. What other crafts/diy are you interested in?

I love scrapbooking, sewing (mostly by hand as I can't work a sewing machine!) making jewelry, painting, creating banners to hang up around the house and anything else I find on Pinterest! ;)

4. What's the story behind the shop name?

I wanted something to go with my blog name (Moonbeam Wishes) and I thought that the name Dear Moonbeams would fit right in. I love wishing on stars and gazing up at the moon and I thought the affectionate title seemed just right! I also kinda love that it looks like the beginning of a letter. :)

5. When you're not owning your own shop and blogging, where can we find you?

Usually curled up with a book with a cup of tea by my side and a cat or two underfoot.

6. What's your favorite part about owning your own shop?

The hours are great, the all you can drink tea is heavenly and I really rather like my boss! ;) I also love the freedom to go wherever the wind takes me and I can get as creative as I wish.

7. What's in the future for you and Moonbeam Wishes?

Hopefully great and wonderful things. :)

Here are a few of my faves:

 

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READER'S CODE
You can also let your readers use the coupon code THE25THHOUR for 15% off in my EMBROIDERY SHOP from now till February! :)

Thank you Megan for the wonderful interview here at The 25th Hour. It has been a pleasure getting to know you :)

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 Artist + Shop: Laura of le animalé

I am here to introduce Laura from le animalé! She has one of the most unique shops on the etsy block and I am so excited I can show off her work to all of you! She makes a ton of these cute little animals totems that are sure to brighten your day! Read along to find out more about her and her shop.

blog | twitter | shop | facebook

Getting to know Laura:

1. Tell us a little background about you and your shop!

I'm Laura and I make the cute little animals of le animalé.  I grew up in a coastal town in North Carolina.  As a little girl I always thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors (well, I still do) and I really, really loved animals (well, I still do that too).  I loved reading about them and discovering new ones and drawing them and pretending to have them as my pets.  From then until now my background is full of creative ventures (from music to painting to photography), but I've recently settled into the miniature sculptures and artwork I make for le animalé.  

2. What is your inspiration behind le animalé?

Simple! - animals and all of their quirky, cute, humorous, endearing antics!  Last year as I was thinking that a miniature zoo would be the most awesome thing ever, I just decided to make one.  Now I'm sharing my miniature zoo with the world so everyone can have any and every little animal they've ever dreamed of.  No chores or cleanup necessary, just cute little animals to brighten your day.

3. Starting a handmade shop is a huge responsibility, what do you recommend for someone thinking about opening their own?

Well, you set your own pace it ends up being as much or as little responsibility as you want it to be.  But with that said, you get out of it what you put into it, and if you're considering starting a handmade shop in order to make a living, you need to be willing to put in a lot.  A lot of time, a lot of research, a lot of work.  But it's very rewarding and so worth it to be able to share your creations with the world, know that your products make people happy, and make your living doing something you are truly passionate about.

4. What should we look forward to from le animalé?

My brand new website will be done soon!  With the new website comes new photos and new products, so there is a lot to look forward to with that launch within the next month.  PLUS, my 1 year anniversary is coming up in May, and I will be doing a lot to celebrate it (giveaways, special products, and more!)  Keep your eyes peeled for exciting new le animalé goodness!

5. What is one of your quirks?

This one may go against my typical right-brained thinking (or maybe it doesn't) but whenever I see a group of numbers I think of different ways they can work together or be combined.  For instance, if I see 3681 on a license plate I'll think, "3 plus 6 is 9 minus 1 is 8", and so on.

Now check out some of the animal sculptures she creates!

These are some of my favorite of her collection. Be sure to check out her shop for more!

Thank you Laura for dropping by Simply, Melissa Ashley & letting me interview you! The Featured Artist blog posts have been created to showcase some of my favorite artists floating around. None of these posts are sponsored by the artists featured, unless otherwise noted. I just love to spread the love of handmade local artists!

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.