√ Maldonado

√ 

Omar Maldonado

 On Etsy we have the ability to mark items to our "favorites" as we see fit. You can mark an item from a shop or the whole shop, it's up to you. Every weekday I usually go through my favorite items and make that shop / artist my "Artist of the Day". At times, I am so moved by what is in the shop, I ask for an interview. Sometimes I don't hear anything back, sometimes I get turned down, and sometimes, I get very luck you have the honor of presenting you with an amazing new artist!!

Omar Maldonado is no exception! He creates beautifully simple jewelry that just makes you want to sigh. His pieces are colorful and classy and just perfect for almost any occasion. Omar himself is a very nice person. I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did.

Who are you, where are you from and what makes that place unique?
My name is Omar, I live in the city of Santa Fe, Argentina. It is a city where many students come from the rest of the country, and is the provincial capital of the state. I live very near a large river, the region is very fertile and moist, ideal for farming. My house is the perfect place for me, I love my studio and share good times with my friends, many of whom are also artists and craftsmen.

Colorful Bubbles Sterling Silver Pendant

What was the first item you ever made for your shop?
Actually, there were several products, but I remember the most successful work, from the beginning, was a necklace of colorful bubbles.

How long have you been independently selling your items?
I have been doing this work for 10 years and have always been independent. I am the one who designs the products and then builds and sells them. I make everything work and I like it just that way.

If you were on a desert isle, and you could only have one book or cd with you (besides your creative tools) which book or cd would that be?
Choosing a CD would be very difficult for me, because I like meeting new music all the time. I would take any book by Jorge Luis Borges

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled, what made it so interesting?
The place I've traveled and I liked is Valparaiso, Chile. I like it because it is a city that is located in a mountainous area that has a slope overlooking the sea. Their houses are colorful, there are many art and design shops which generate ongoing activities related to culture. I will very soon return to Valparaiso, after more than two years away.

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I think there is always the possibility of failing at something, but my work seems very nice and I really enjoy doing it, I think it's very easy for me to beat me every day and get better at what I do. years of experience of any craft are very helpful when you want to do your best.

Omar is offering the coupon code "YARNOBSESSION"  for 15% off to readers of this profile!


You can find Omar online:
blog
flickr 
twitter

√ Modern Buttercup

√ If you're looking for a gift and your recipient is "whimsical", here is your shop! ModernButtercup took some time out of her day to share some of her favorites with us, allowing us to get to know her a bit better. Take a read, then take a look at her shop! She's offering 10% off in her shop for this blog's readers so read to the bottom for the code. Enjoy!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself
Hello everyone.... I live over at Modernbuttercup on Etsy and at my blog. I am a crafty person who loves terrariums and walking barefoot on the beach. I create jewelry with a touch of whimsy and a bit of quirkiness.

2. Which of your items is your favorite and why?
That's a hard one! But my favorite would have to be the Silver Locket. It's accented with beads and has lots of detail.

3. What is your favorite book, why?
I am a big bookworm, so this is also a hard pick. But one of my favorites would have to be "Little Women". It has great characters and a nice morale. My favorite character would have to be Meg. We are very similar.

4. What is your favorite food, why?
I have a bit of a sweet tooth, so my favorite food is definitely a dessert, specifically Molasses Cookies. They're an example of what gingerbread cookies should taste like. Sweet, gingery, and soft...

5. If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I would send in some of my work to one of my favorite magazines like Mollie Makes or ReadyMade. I've always wanted to see my work in a magazine! :)

ModernButtercup is offering 10% off of anything in her shop to readers of this piece, use coupon code "BLOGREWARDS2". Don't forget to let her know you saw her here!

√ From The Heart By Eva

√ As her shop name implies "From The Heart By Eva" is full of sweet and sentimental items from the heart! When I asked her to do this profile she was quick to point out that although she'd love to do it, she didn't want a give-away but a "Gift-Away". I thought that was really sweet, so I've adopted the term and I have Eva's aura to thank for it!

As you read, keep in mind, that each item in her shop is made by this person. Eva has a surprise for you when you get to the end of this piece.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself
Hi, I'm Eva! I'm originally from Latvia, but currently happily living in the UK. I'm a self-taught artist and I've always believed that it is us, people, who make things happen, not our fate. If you want it, go get it. I'm so grateful for all the experiences I've had in my life, for they brought me to where I am now. I love creating. I have been creating since I was little. I believe there is beauty in everything . . . I mean every thing, but not everyone can see it. It really delights my soul knowing I can give something to the people that inspires and motivates them. It is happiness to see others happy.

2. Which of your items is your favorite and why?
As a passionate jewellery artist, I obviously love and wear my own pieces. I'm very fond of long inspiring quotes, with quite large pendants. I've been given compliments all the time! Some of my favorites of this current collection are:

"Things That Hurt Teach Black Hand" Engraved Feather Necklace - It's very true since we learn from mistakes and they normally hurt, but they are beneficial to our spirits.

"You Can't Handle Me" Hand Engraved Feather Necklace - This is half a joke, half true! I love to wear something like this so people know they won't win. Ever. (LOL)

"FCUK Normality" Bracelet - I despise all the stereotypes and things put in 'normal' category. Life is crazy and to be normal is to be average. You don't want to be average, you want to be special! This is how you show them that you are!

"The Quiet Things That No One ever knows" Bracelet - I find this inspiring as we all have secrets and we don't even dare whisper about them. I like to think of it as some kind of treasure that we hold in our hearts, that no one will ever know but what moves us forward in life. Life is crazy!

3. What is your favorite book, why?
Actually I have 2 favourite books and to choose one would be true war between them. One is the Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. I've read this book several times over. There is something so captivating in the history and culture of Japanese people and their society. I'm still obsessed with the Japanese language.

The other book is Notre Dame de Paris, or in English - The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, by Victor Hugo. It beholds memories of my college time when I studied French and wanted to move to France. I love the character of a gypsy girl. I can still remember the thrills I got when I read it and imagined all the little details (as an artist I've got plenty of imagination).

4. What is your favorite food, why?
Does coffee qualify as food..? If not, then it has to be Lasagne (vegetarian). I never knew what it was until I tried it 2 years ago. Now I worship it!

5. If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I like this question! But I strongly believe that we only move forward through failing and, having no obstacles would really demotivate me. We have to fight to get through. It would be boring to be always able to get what we want. But if I could not waste time in failures, I would use it to achieve many more things. For me, one lifetime is not enough to achieve all that I want. Because I want big things. Because we have to go through 'fall&get up' number of times, and the clock is clicking. I embrace my little mistakes, as they teach me so much. I cannot move forward without learning and growing.

The "Gift-Away"
Eva is offering a coupon code (BLOGDISCOUNT20) for 20% off any piece in her shop to anyone that reads this post. Enjoy!

√ Maulani

√ Maulani is an Etsy shop full of "Random Fun Handmade Treasures". Each delicate piece tells a story that can only be told their way. Dita took time out of her busy day to share a little bit of herself with you. Read, then take a look at her lovely shop. . . let her know I referred you.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself
Hello! I'm Dita Maulani, 23 years old from Bogor, small city in West Java, Indonesia. I love morning coffee in the morning and iced coffee in the afternoon. I sell/promote by day and craft/have lovely time with my boyfriend at night.

2. Which of your items is your favorite and why?
I love everything in my shop since I made them with love but if I have to pick one, I love this Key to Eiffel Tower in Paris. I just love the photograph of it and I know it looks better in person!

3. What is your favorite book, why?
I love Taming the Beast by Emily Maguire. It reminds me of how beast we can be when it comes to unhealthy love and how life can turn us bad or good, depends on path we've chosen. I just love the poem on it too. It is a hard book to comprehend yet I can't wait to turn every page until the last page of the book!

4. What is your favorite food, why?
My boyfriend's garlic bread and mashed potato! He made me this delicious food right in the evening when I was very tired teaching. And I like his iced coffee too. I just feel special when he cooks something for me ♥

5. If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I will go to Antarctic and see the polar bear, and live in Igloo for few days. I will bring my craft supplies and will take picture of my jewelry on Antarctic!

As a special thank you, Dita has provided a special incentive just for readers of this profile! Use code “FREESHIP” in order to get Free Shipping on any of her items Worldwide!

You can find Maulani online:
- Facebook
- Twitter
- Blog
- Blog (2)

√ Additionsstyle

√

Valerie Williams

I found a beautiful photo on Pinterest one day and I followed the link. It took me to Everyday Inspired where I found more beautiful photos and lots of color inspiration. I registered to get updates every day and it seemed I was pinning photos from this blog every day. I left comments and Valerie would comment back or visit my blog and comment. Finally, I decided I needed to share her with others and she agreed! It is my pleasure and honor to share with you Valerie Williams, of the blog Everyday Inspired and the Etsy shop Additionsstyle!

 Who are you, where are you from and what makes that place unique?
I am a Midwesterner. I grew up in Minnesota, lived in New York City (where I met and married my husband), and now we live in the Chicagoland area. I have been a sterling silver jewelry artist for over 15 years. I started the Additions collection of wearable hardware jewelry over 3 years ago, and I love working on my business everyday.

Layered Hardware Necklace

What was the first item you ever made for your shop?
One of the first pieces I listed was a layered hardware necklace. I still have it in my shop today, but I am going to retire it in mid February. It was the first piece I had featured on the front page of Etsy.
How long have you been independently selling your items?
I have been selling my jewelry at art shows, trunk shows, and private showings for about 15 years, and on Etsy for over 3 years.

If you were on a desert isle, and you could only have one book or cd with you (besides your creative tools) which book or cd would that be?
That is a really hard question for a book-a-holic. I guess I will go with one of the Lark Books 500 Earrings or 500 Necklaces. The inspiration in these books is endless; every time I look at one of them I see something new.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled, what made it so interesting?
I have been lucky enough to travel to 48 of our 50 states and a big chunk of Canada. Again a tough question, because each state has something interesting to see. I love visiting the oceans and the mountains, but New York City is my favorite city and has an endless supply of inspiration.

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
Even thou failure is in the back of my mind; I still strive for success when starting a new project. Writing e-books is my next big challenge.

You can find Valerie online:
Shop
Blog – Everyday Inspired
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest

For readers of this blog Valerie is offering 15% off your entire purchase with coupon code "YARN12"! Go by and say hello, tell her Sedie sent you!

√ Antidotum

√

Last year I stumbled somehow upon the most gorgeous shop! As I browsed through there wasn't one thing in the shop that didn't make me green with envy. I decided I had to give this shop some exposure so I contacted Alina about Antidotum to see if she would like to have a profile done. As you can see her answer was yes! So, it is my honor to share with you this most beautiful of shops and the very sweet Alina.

About myself:
I am an architect, interior designer, graphic artist and most recently a designer and creator of silver jewelry. I create original and unique jewelry which is often considered controversial, but it’s my passion to experiment with form and material.

In my art projects I look for contrast, cussedness and a playful wink. These are very modern designs, far from classical canon. Maybe because of that, they are not for everyone; but for sure, for those who in surrounding goods are looking for hilarious ones, causing a smile. And to those who have a bit of courage and broad-mindedness for new and uncommon products and ideas.

About my favorite items:
Felt Bracelet - it combines softness and colorfulness of felt with austerity and requirements of silver clasp. Combination of these, so different in every aspect, materials are a big challenge, both in aesthetic and technological aspect, however, it was great fun and a huge satisfaction to find an attractive and effective solution.

Favorite book:
Only one? Well, that's a really hard choice…for sure ”Mathematics of Nina Gluckstein” is one of the books I appreciate the most, but, of course there are many, many more.

Food
Hm…. I don’t pay too much attention to food, but if I were supposed to choose something for dinner it probably would be an Italian dish.

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
As a matter of fact I’ve already made that decision. I’ve established a private school of design and manufacturing jewelry, though I wasn’t sure about it’s future. The school has been successfully developed and from the very first moment up till now has been bringing me great satisfaction, as well as to to the teachers and students.

Alina is offering 10% off on any purchase using promotional code: PROMOBLOG712

You will also find her online:
Website
Website
Website
Facebook

√ Ring Of Wire Ring Photos!

√

Last week Ring of Wire was having a contest on her Facebook page to celebrate the milestone of 200 fans (whoo hoo)! I was very excited for her, but when I noticed what the prize was on a certain day, I had to express not only my excitement for her, but for the lovely item I could win just by leaving a comment. So I left a comment and put it out of my mind.

Imagine my surprise when I got an email the next day saying I won! I did the happy dance and proceeded to tell everyone about my new ring. I promised to showcase it, but life got in the way (you know how that happens) and I didn't get to photograph and show it off last week. So, I decided to write a whole blog post and showcase it here. Isn't it lovely?!

Melissa of Ring of Wire does lovely work and I can't wait to have an excuse to get another ring from her. Go show her some love and let her know you saw her lovely work on Yarn Obsession!

√ New Hope Beading

√

Delicate and sweet, that is how I can describe the items in the New Hope Beading shop that belongs to Caroline at Etsy. Just as most shops on Etsy, I'm not sure how I found her, but something caught my eye and I "hearted" one of her items. That led to her being a featured artist for the day and now, it is my pleasure to introduce you to New Hope Beading and Caroline.

Who are you, where are you from and what makes that place unique?
Hi I am Caroline. I grew up just outside of NYC which I loved. I now live in Hunterdon County NJ which I also love. Hunterdon County is like stepping back in time or like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting… all cute Main Street and rolling hills. And yet we can be in Manhattan in about an hour. It’s the best of both worlds

How long have you been independently selling your items?
I opened my Etsy shop officially on February 21, 2009 shortly after my daughter’s diagnosis with epilepsy. You can read more about how New Hope Beading got started and got its name here in my shop profile.

If you were on a desert isle, and you could only have one book or cd with you (besides your creative tools) which book or cd would that be? Oh you’re killin’ me! I am a book junkie… just one? Really? Well I guess if I am stranded on an island then we might as well go with Lord of the Flies OR we could go with Life of Pi. I think either book would be appropriate LOL

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled, what made it so interesting?
I went with my sister to Morocco when she was just out of college and I was still in high school. That was a trip (no pun intended). It really was another world… beautiful and exotic. On another trip we visited Crete and Athens where my brother-in-law grew up. It was just as beautiful as you’d imagine!

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
Sing! But you’ve never heard me sing (trust me it isn’t pretty tee hee)

You can find Caroline online:
Etsy shop
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest

√ Ring Of Wire

√ Melissa is the artist behind Ring of Wire a lovely little Etsy shop opened in July of this year! I found out about her shop because someone at work was so excited about her items they had to share . . . Oh, did I mention we work at the same company, but in different offices. She's down south and I'm in New England. That, however, has not hindered our communication. When I saw the awesome work she was doing, I asked if she wanted to take a moment and be part of my blog. As you can see, the answer was yes, and you get the great benefit of meeting this lovely artist!!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Melissa and I am originally from western PA, but currently living in Raleigh, NC with my husband, two cats and a bird (the cats and bird surprisingly do get along). As far back as I can remember I’ve always enjoyed making things or at least giving numerous projects a try, so many of my family members and friends have received numerous handmade crafts from me throughout the years. I started making jewelry about 8 years ago and set it to the side when my ‘work world’ became busier, but pulled everything out this year with a goal of getting back to something I truly enjoyed. So far so good!

2. Which of your items is your favorite and why?
My current favorite in my shop (and that does change frequently) is the Ceramic Lentil Bead Ring, I really love the colors in this bead. When I saw the beads I almost didn’t buy them as my shopping basket was a little fuller than planned, but I just could not pass them up. I am so glad I didn't becasue the ring came out beautifully and the colors are perfect for Fall/Winter…my favorite seasons.

3. What is your favorite book, why?
A very hard question to answer since I LOVE to read. However, I think I would have to go with The Big Over Easy by Jasper Fforde. I love anything creative and this book was such a neat idea and written so well that it was really hard to put down. I have read pretty much all of his books and continue to be amazed at his originality in coming up with such fun storylines.

4. What is your favorite food, why?
I really love food so, again, another hard one to answer. My sweet tooth can get out of control, but a good staple for me and always a standby when I am just not sure what I am hungry for would be a grilled cheese. I’ve never had a bad one, but none will ever taste as good as my moms.

5. If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I would definitely leave my regular day job and be a professional crafter/maker. It is really something I like doing so I don’t consider it to be “work” but more of an honor to do so - making things for other people makes me feel pretty good inside. I would then balance my time doing that with volunteering at the local SPCA where there are so many great animals just waiting for a home. I adopted a cat from there 3 years ago and it has been a joy having her in our home. I wish I had the space to add more!

Melissa is offering a 10% off all purchases with the code BLOGREADER10. Go over and give her a visit! Let her know I sent you becasue I'm sure she'll be happy to give you the code discount!

You can find Melissa
on Etsy
on Facebook

√ Kalicat

√ If you're looking for beautiful designer jewelry, I think you'll find it at Catherine's shop Kalicat. Before last week I wasn't familiar with her shop, but fate connected us on the We Love Etsy network and here we are. Her pieces vary in style and weight giving you many options when it comes to rings, earrings, bracelets etc. Get to know her here and make sure to visit her at the many places she hangs out online.


Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Catherine, I am from Paris (France) and grew up internationally. I now live and work in London where I give satisfaction to my passion of making jewelry, when my 2 little boys allow me to have some ME time.

I design and hand make limited edition and bespoke jewelery that is characterized by its chic and elegance, with a hint of French playfulness. My pieces are made in high carat golds (18K and 22K) or sterling silver, playing with the rich colors of precious and semi precious gemstones and lustrous pearls. My collections include engagement and wedding rings, rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings and bracelets.

What inspires you to your craft/artistry?
I believe that everyone deserves to look stunning and spoilt with beautiful and playful pieces that will enhance their inner beauty and be a statement or the mood of the moment. I love to do custom orders, as I get to work with someone's ideas but more so someone's feelings. I am inspired by colors, sun, words, poesie (poetry), music and movement, by my upbringing and my travels. I also love to create something taking the gemstone(s) as an inspiration.

How do you promote your items?
I participate in etsy and dawanda forums, I blog, I Tweet and add new products regularly. I also take part in exhibitions and send press releases and newsletters to announce new shows. And of course, I carry business cards, and postcards of my work, to give out to the people I meet :)

What is one piece of advice you'd give to new artists?
It helps to have a business plan or a vision. Keep working, evolving and do enjoy what you do. If you are unsure about something, ask people with more experience for their advice.

How do you see yourself evolving in the next 5-10 years?
I still see myself designing jewelry in many years to come. I would love my brand to be well known and be a synonym of style, elegance, quality and enjoyment. I will probably have a production team.

What are some of your favorite things?
I love Chocolate, music, traveling to discover new cities, countries, cultures and people. On of my favorite books is "the little Prince" by Antoine de St Exupery, a beautiful story of friendship between a little boy and a fox with lovely illustrations made by the author. I adored the latest Chanel fashion show backdrop with white floral scape. And also like dance in all its forms.

What is your favorite quote?
Nothing is impossible for a willing heart.

You can find Catherine at these various places:
Esty
Dawanda
Folksy

Catherine also enjoys painting and illustrating:
Catherine Marche Designs Her latest commissioned illustration was featured in DIVA magazine.

√ Giia

√ Happy New Year and Happy Friday! I hope 2014 will bring all the dreams you are dreaming closer to reality for you.

Fridays are Fabulous here because that's when I get to share a shop that I think you'll love!

Today's shop is Giia and it's filled with some of the most fun and unique "jewelry" pieces you'll find anywhere! Take a look and let them know I sent you! Enjoy

√ Le Boudoir Noir

√

I met Martha on Twitter. I'm not sure if she found me or I found her, what's important is that we found each other! Her lovely Etsy shop is Le Boudoir Noir. It's filled with beautiful jewelry and accessories for men and women alike. I love her pieces because they are not timid, they tell their story boldly! It is my pleasure to bring you this conversation with Martha and introduce you to Le Boudoir Noir!

Who are you, where are you from and what makes that place unique?
I am best known at Etsy as Martha C. from le Boudoir Noir, but it's great to have the opportunity to say something more about me. I was born in a small, beautiful town in Northern Greece, spent my childhood in Canada but for the largest part of my life I live in Athens, Greece --a place unique and vibrant with the most delightful light in the world.

Sold! Verdigris Patina Corset

What was the first item you ever made for your shop?
My first item is also my favorite one. It's the Verdigris Patina Corset Pleated Cuff. The courses in metalsmithing that I attended years ago helped me tremendously to create it as it requires a very demanding techniques and it's a time consuming process. I am very excited with its special patina and when I sold it a few days ago I found it rather hard to let it go. Now I am in the process of making another one.

How long have you been independently selling your items?
Though I have been designing and making jewelry for several years, a shop was not exactly an option I had seriously considered. Actually, it was my friends and acquaintances that encouraged me to go ahead and turn my hobby into a business. Someone suggested Etsy, and I thought I could actually give it a try. So, I started listing my items on Etsy a couple of months ago and I officially launched Le Boudoir Noir in November. My first sale was made on the first day of November, and my first customer was Elly -who enjoys a lifetime 10% discount for that reason. I am very sentimental and proud about this...

If you were on a desert isle, and you could only have one book or cd with you (besides your creative tools) which book or cd would that be?
Oscar Wilde's complete works would be just fine for the author's timeless and genious spirit. If I were to take a cd with me, I would take Pink Martini's second album titled Hang On Little Tomato...

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled, what made it so interesting?
I have traveller a lot from France to Cuba and from Morocco to India. However when it comes to the most interesting place, I would choose Donousa, hands down! This enchanting island, part of the Little Cyclades has magical golden sandy beaches and warm, hospitable people. Everytime I go there, I feel like a castaway in Paradise!

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?
I never let the fear of failure stop me from following my dreams. Failure is part of life and offers great lessons for success. So, if you ask me what I would like to accomplish more than anything else, it would be a peaceful re-distribution of wealth, so that there is no child around the world suffering from hunger.

Peace and happiness to all!

You can find Martha online:
Twitter
Facebook Business Page
Facebook Friend Page



For the readers of this blog Martha is offering 10% off your next purchase from LeBoudoirNoir and an automatic subscription to their newsletter. Please don't forget to fill in the coupon code SEDIE10 at check-out, which is valid until 15 March 2014 and can not be used in combination with other offers and discounts.

√ Leatherwraps

√

Stormy Gail Baker

Meet Stormy. She has a lovely little shop on Etsy called Leather Wraps where you can find different color leather wrapped in silver. You can also find jasper, faux pearls and lizard. The items are truly lovely and any piece would be a beautiful addition to a jewelry collection. As you get to know Stormy, I think you'll be inclined to see her work.

Who are you, where are you from and what makes that place unique? My Name is Stormy Gail Baker. The truth is I was born on a stormy, windy night and that's how I got my name. I'm from Louisiana and I LOVE IT! The best thing about it is the FOOD and the beautiful southern charm of the people.

What was the first item you ever made for your shop? That would be my Ocean Turquoise Jasper Five Leather Wrap Bracelet.

How long have you been independently selling your items? I've had my shop since January 2014 while I was working full-time as a fertility nurse. I recently moved to a beautiful, historic small town, managing my Etsy Shop full-time and loving it!

If you were on a desert isle, and you could only have one book or cd with you (besides your creative tools) which book or cd would that be? I would definitely have Music! I love Enya-A Day Without Rain. Go figure with a girl named Stormy! :)

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled, what made it so interesting? So far, it would be Montana. The beauty is Phenomenal!

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do? In short, GIVE!

You can find Stormy online:
Twitter
Etsy

Stormy is also offering 10% off your total purchase with the code "YARNOBSESION10" for 10% off in her shop.