Spotlight Feature #16 - Alida Nunez

Today we have some really beautiful jewellery to inspire your Christmas purchases... Here is my interview with jewellery designer Alida Nunez...

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

I studied Textile Design and worked in that field for about 7 years, though barely as a designer. In the different companies I worked for, my job was usually as an account executive. After this period of time I was convinced I had to become my own boss and decided to study jewelry. Since then, I've been in the jewelry business for almost 5 years.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

Colors. In Peru we have a large variety of natural stones and I usually get inspired from these colors. Another source of inspiration is internet. Is the best way to see what's going on worldwide.

3. Do you sell your work, or is it purely for pleasure?

I sell my work through my webpage http://www.alidajoyas.com/ and Novica http://www.novica.com/

4. If someone was looking to take up this craft should they have any related experience before they start?

No. I took up jewelry without knowing a bit about it, but I needed a teacher to guide me on every step.

5. What would be your top 5 tips for a beginner?

If you are a woman and like to have your nails done, forget about jewelry.

Before buying your own equipment, attend to a basic jewelry metalsmithing class and find out if this is what you like.

Take notes of every step in each piece.

Take your time, especially on the finishings, because that's where you see the quality of the work.

You need to have a lot of patience

6. What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?

• Jeweller's bench
• Pliers (round, flat and needle-nose)
• Files
• Tweezers
• Sandpaper

7. Can you recommend a technique or ‘tips’ book ideal for a beginner?

"Complete metalsmith, student edition" by Tim McCreight.

8. Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?

I don't have a favorite brand, but I do recommend German tools.

Thank you Alida for talking with us and I wish you success with your work.

A Concise History of a Craft – the Chinese Knot by guest writer Estherina Sally Tan

I first noticed Chinese knot when I was about to attend primary school and my mother passed me one to be hung on my school bag. She said that the knot symbolizes protection and peace. I’m supposed to have it with me for as long as I can. I remember it has a pretty knot tied with a red colour silk cord to a small green jade and it is finished with beautiful tassels attached to the end of the jade.

Early this year, I started to study more about Chinese knot and I decided to learn it on my own. It was only then that I know that Chinese knot has been around since Han dynasty (206BCE – 220CE). However, it has only become popular during the Tang and Song dynasty (960-1229AD) and then officially recognized as a Chinese’s art during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911 AD), which is the last dynasty of China.


Traditionally, Chinese have used knots in their daily lives to fasten, wrap and hold things together. As the society develops, people find different usages for the knots. Some have started using them as buttons for Chinese costumes and some have even used it as a representation to seal contracts! Over the years, more knot variations have developed and by the time it reaches Qing dynasty, it has become a beautiful art decoration and people use it to represent good luck, peace, prosperity, good fortune, good health and love. This is due to the knot pronunciation in Mandarin, jié (knot) sounds similar to the pronunciation of, jí (means good wishes). Different knot has a different technique of tying them, and each knot creates a different form that carries a different meaning.

Nowadays, you can find the use of Chinese knot as necklaces, bracelets, phone charms, car deco, wall deco, hair pins, bookmarks and many more. Chinese knots are normally tied to a piece of jade, porcelain, cloisonné, small tea pot or antique coins so that it does not look dull when you hang them up. You can also find Chinese knots in the shape of animals or insects. The popular ones are fish, butterfly, swan, and shrimp all created using silk cords and the same Chinese knot techniques.

I personally find that using Chinese knot as buttons is very interesting and it adds a very oriental, unique feature into a design compared to machine-produced flat buttons. Check out this website (http://www.denimsilk.com/collection/des.html) that I found. The designers managed to combine the uniqueness of Chinese buttons with western blue denim as their unique fashion label.

If you want to know more about Chinese knots, point your mouse to the web sites below:
http://www.nikerchina.com/english/chinaculture/art/Crafts/Knots.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_knot


Written by Estherina Sally Tan (aka Estherly S) on 14 Nov 07
Blog: http://estherly.com/ (includes full links to the shops)

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Thank you for a wonderful insight to the Chinese knot...
Make sure you visit the blog for full links to those beautiful shops! Sara x

'CRAFT FAIRS' by guest writer Pamela Baker

I have noticed in many of the Forums the past few days that the question of Craft Fairs has come up. It is also that time of year to be thinking about Christmas/Holiday Fairs. The main question seems to be "what should I expect." Believe it not, I have only been doing Craft Fairs for about a year; but within that time I learned so much, and would like to share my experiences, observations and thoughts.

Of course, the main thing is signing up. Easy you say: well not exactly. First thing to consider, is the Fair going to be in a place where there would be a lot of traffic (people!). Definitely consider doing a show if it is in a town, esp. one that is well known, or an area that will attract a lot of people. I will start with my bad experience (so definitely omit this from your lists): my friend and I, another Estian, signed up for a triad of Fairs in CT, which has a lot of beautiful, and very old fashioned towns. Thinking we had it made, we arrived at the first one. It was on a small lot in the middle of no where, and only 10 vendors. No traffic, no people, and NO sales! If this weren’t bad enough – it had poured the night before, so the whole area was soaking wet and muddy. After that we checked on the remaining two Fairs, well each was a worse area then the first – one, was on the lawn of an old-aged home! Needless to say, the first one was enough for us, and unfortunately could not get our remaining money refunded. So my First Suggestion: check out the area before you sign up for anything. One fair we did that was great, and which we were solicited for, was "The Pleasantville Music Festival" sponsored by Radio Station 107.1 in NY (a little plug!) It was a great experience, the music was all day, the food was from all local restaurants, and each vendor couldn’t have been nicer. Yes, we did quite well that day.


Second Suggestion: before you do your first fair, do a try-out set-up at home. This means setting up your table, arranging your crafts, jewelry, quilts, candles, etc.; and then take pictures. As you set up, you have the time to rearrange your crafts in a way that will attract people – screaming: "Hey, look over here!" This will save a lot of time when you get to your site. You will immediately know exactly where each piece belongs and how it compliments each other. Oh yes, if possible, get a TENT, which adds another 15 min. set-up time.


You would think after all this I would be an expert. Well, here comes the most important thing of doing Craft Fairs. When you get a moment (when those many sales start to slow down) walk around and get to know other vendors. I learned the most by doing this. One, you learn about other upcoming fairs, but the best thing I did, was to meet others crafters who make jewelry (which is my forte). I observed how they set up and arranged their jewelry, which gave me quite a few new perspectives on how I could best arrange my table that would immediately attract even those just browsing. So, the Third Suggestion of my mini tutorial is to take a break during your Craft Show, and observe how others present their crafts. Remember a lot of these people have been doing this for a long time and are quite experienced; so you can learn a lot from them.

Ok, now you are all set up and ready to start selling! Wait, my Fourth Suggestion, when people walk into your shop (or up to your table), even if they are just browsing, give them the courtesy of a hello and a smile. You don’t have to follow them like a store detective, but who knows, that one little smile might just be enough to render a sale.

Finally, make your shop comfortable and attractive. A few flowers, here and there, at the Harvest Festival we did in Cold Spring, NY, we had little pumpkins all around our work. Christmas time, put up a few decorations or a little tree with some decorations. I hope I was able to answer a few of the questions that will help new crafters as they pursue their talents elsewhere. Good luck!

Written by Pamela Baker of http://www.magdalenejewels.etsy.com/

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Thank you Pamela for some really great tips, I'm hoping to have my first Christmas Fair soon so I will definately put those tips into action! Sara x

Spotlight Feature #15 - DLPom Handcrafted Expressions

Today's feature is on soap and paper making ad showing that there are many creative and effective ways of creating two crafts you love when selling. Dana Meanor is here to tell us more about her business DLPom Handcrafted Expressions.

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

I am a completely, self-taught crafter. While a variety of crafts have attracted me my entire life -- including sewing, polymer clay, and crochet – the crafts that have really taken hold during the last seven years are handcrafted soap making, paper making, and jewelry designing. A big “thank you” to Sara for featuring my soap and paper making in this feature!

Handcrafting soap using the cold-process method is a labor of love, and can be compared to gourmet cooking. I enjoy creating my own soap recipes, planning how the oils and scents will worth together, and sampling the final products. My handcrafted paper is made one sheet at a time from reclaimed, ink-free scraps. I tear these sheets to make the packaging sleeves for my soap. It is my small way of contributing to the environment by recycling paper that would have otherwise gone straight to the landfill. Combining these two crafts produces a completely handcrafted end-result that nourishes your skin and is friendly to mother earth.

I am a third grade teacher by day and a crafter on nights and weekends. Crafting is my creative outlet and my mental therapy! It is an added bonus when others can enjoy and appreciate the things I create.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

Most of my inspiration comes from natural sources. I notice color combinations in nature, and I love scents that come from nature such as mint, rosemary, citrus, and a variety of floral fragrances. These make for awesome soap recipes! I always try to coordinate the color and texture of my handmade paper with a particular soap recipe too.

3. Do you sell your work, or is it purely for pleasure?

For several years, I just kept family and friends well stocked with handmade soap. Within the past year, I have managed to set aside enough bars to begin selling it at home shows and on Etsy. Cured, ready to use soap can be purchased from my Etsy shop: DLPom Handcrafted Expressions . Once you try it, you will never go back to store bought soap!

4. If someone was looking to take up this craft should they have any related experience before they start?

You don’t really need any experience to start making your own cold process soap. However, you do need to be well versed in the safety precautions of making cold process soap, as well as awareness of the overall techniques and options available to you. I spent hours reading on the Internet and bought several books on this topic before making my first batch of soap, which turned out to be a complete failure! Don’t get discouraged, it usually takes new cold process soapers 3-10 batches before they have a successful, useable soap.

Experience is not required for papermaking either. Again, reading about the technique and process is the place to begin to see if it is something that interests you.

5. What would be your top 5 tips for a soap-making beginner?

• Be very aware of safety precautions when handling lye. ALWAYS pour the lye crystals into your liquid, and not the other way around. NEVER pour water onto the lye crystals as this can cause a very dangerous volcano effect in the container you are using. The lye solution can cause a very serious alkaline burn. Accidental splashes from raw soap can also burn and irritate the skin. Have a bottle of white vinegar handy to immediately neutralize any contact with your skin.
• Assemble all your equipment and tools ahead of time. Sometimes the process moves quickly, and you need to have everything handy.
• Use a simple soap recipe with only 2-3 oils that has already been tested as a successful recipe. Creating your own soap recipes is an advanced technique that requires more understanding of soap making chemistry.
• Buy your fixed oils, essential oils, fragrance oils, and additives from a reliable company that has experience with cold process soap. Bad or inferior ingredients will lead to bad soap. One exception I’ve found is for olive oil, which can be purchased from your local grocery.
• Get an electric stick blender solely used for soap making to help speed up the tracing process. Otherwise, you may wait hours (and I do mean many hours!), for the soap to reach a trace state. And you can’t pour the soap into a mold before it traces.

6. What would be your top 5 items of essential, soap making equipment?

• A scale that measures to the nearest tenth of an ounce. Use it to weigh both the oils and the lye.
• A pyrex measuring cup for the hot lye solution.
• A thermometer to measure the temperature of the lye solution, which can get as hot as 180 degrees Fahrenheit, or more.
• A wooden, loaf shaped soap mold.
• A wooden, soap cutter and blade to make uniform bars from your soap loaf.

7. Can you recommend a technique or ‘tips’ book ideal for a beginner?

Soapmaking Books:
Crafting Soap at Home, Mike Hulbert, Hearst Books, New York. By countryliving.com

Papermaking Books:
Papermaking Techniques Book, John Plowman, Quantum Books, London.

8. Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?

My favorite suppliers of soap making supplies are Majestic Mountain Sage and Bramble Berry. Some of the best quality wooden soap molds and cutters can be purchased from Creekside Soaps.

The simplest form of papermaking requires a stick blender with a blade to turn paper scraps into pulp; a large and flat plastic tub to hold the water and paper pulp; a mold and deckle to form the paper; and a press to flatten and dry the sheets of handmade paper. Many of these items can be found locally, and it is fairly easy to construct your own mold, deckle, and press, as described in the papermaking book reference above.

I hope you have found this feature interesting and helpful. Above all, enjoy whatever craft makes you happy!

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Thank you Dana... I'm sure I speak for everyone in saying that this has been a great feature!

Diary of a Textile Crafter - The Exhibition: Part 1

The Call!

You may have read my post on the Knitting and Stitching Show a while ago... well a week before I got a call.

Hello?
Hello, is this Sara's Texture Crafts?
Yes, Sara speaking... how can I help you?
I'm calling from Twisted Thread the organisers of the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace.
Oh, hello.
We would very much like you to exhibit with us next week. We know it's short notice, but someone pulled out and we stumbled across your website and thought your work would be perfect to showcase. Can you do it?

(clunk...pause... I'm picking myself up off the floor!)

Wow, I'm honoured (I mean really... the heart is racing and the smile is becoming painfully fixed from ear to ear). I would love to be there, but unfortunately I have some freelance commitments at the moment (that and the fact that this would be my first major exhibition and I don't have anything for the stand!) and I couldn't possibly break them (which was true, damn!) Would it be possible to put my name down for next year? I know the show very well and would love to take part.
Of course, we'd love to have you. I'll note down your interest and get back to you a week or so after the show... that's when we will be looking to book the stand for next year.
Lovely, Thank you ever so much!
Not a problem, speak soon, goodbye!
Good bye!

Rather over excitedly, I think I spent the next hour dancing around my front room and calling both my mother and my boyfriend...

Hi
Alright?
Yeah... you will never believe what just happened to me!... Thatshowwe'regoingtopopinatwelltheywantme.Imeanwowwho'dhavethoughtitme!I'mssssooooexcited...butwhatshouldIdo.Idon'thaveenoughstockandhowmuchwillitcostIdon'tevenhavethebasicsofastand!
I'm sorry, what? Start again and this time breathe Sara!
Oh, sorry!
(breathing in and out! in and out!)
Well, I think I was just asked if I wanted to exhibit at the Knitting and Stitching Show... oh, I think I need to sit down...
Wowthat'sfantastic.I'msoproudofyouyou'veworkedreallyhardandnowit'sstartingtocometogetherforyou. I'msohappyforyou!
(Ok, I think we both need to start breathing!) Thanks honey... shall I call you back a bit later?
Ok maybe I need to sit down too?!... Bye then.
Bye!

And so the planning begins...!

Art is all around us!

This is one of my favourite pieces of Street Art. It is a graffiti piece outside a skateboard shop in Covent Garden, London.

Would love to see more urban art, so if you know of any contact me via the guest writer piece at http://sarastexturecrafts.blogspot.com/2007/08/call-to-guest-writers.html

Spotlight Feature #14 - Diana of Pravina

Oooh I love a bag, I seem to have a mountain of them in my wardrobe! So who better to show us her wares today? Yes, that's right Diana from Pravina.

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

My background is in studio art, anthropology and museums. I am intrigued by handmade objects. The connections they make, the history they possess. They tell stories. As an artist, I enjoy being able to create meaningful objects.

I have always been involved in some sort of studio art, drawing, painting, photography. A couple of years ago I decided to try sewing so I bought a great 1970s sewing machine from Casper, a sweet, elderly sewing machine repairman. I learned to use it and haven't stopped since.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

I work at a university textile collection, so I really am never short on inspiration. I am so lucky to be able to see such amazing pieces on a regular basis. I also love the bookstore; books and magazines with beautiful photography are very inspiring. My favorite magazine at the moment is Selvedge. The size, the photos, the paper, everything about it is great.

3. Do you sell your work, or is it purely for pleasure?

I do sell my work. Pravina bags can be purchased online at http://www.pravinastudio.etsy.com/

4. If someone was looking to take up this craft should they have any related experience before they start?

Well since I didn't, I'd have to say no they wouldn't. Just an interest and a willingness to learn.

5. What would be your top 5 tips for a beginner?

Learn the basics
Don't rush to finish a project, it never ends well.
Learn to love ripping out seams and starting over. There's no avoiding it.
Don't be afraid to try anything. What's the worst that could happen?
Pay attention to good craftsmanship and small details

6. What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?

• A good quality sewing machine. It doesn't need to have a lot of fancy options. Just a good strong workhorse of a machine.
• A rotary cutter.
• A good ruler. I prefer the metal ones. I tend to cut through plastic.
• A self-healing cutting mat in the biggest size you have space for.
• The biggest work table you have space for.

7. Can you recommend a technique or 'tips' book ideal for a beginner?

My favorite general sewing book is actually a pretty old one, it is the Reader's Digest "Complete Guide to Sewing". It is very thorough and easy to follow. A couple of my other favorite books are: Lotta Jandotter's "Simple Sewing" and Celine Dupuy's "Simple Sewing with a French Twist." Both have great projects for varying skill levels and beautiful photography. They always make me want to start a new project.

8. Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?

My sewing machine is a Pfaff brand and I absolutely love it. I wouldn't look out for a specific brand as much as good quality. A lot of the inexpensive new machines can be disappointing, performance wise. Don't be afraid of buying an older machine as newer doesn't necessarily mean better. My first machine was about 35 years old and it did a great job. Look for durability, quality and sturdiness.

Keep going back and trying machines until you find the one you're happy with.

Thank you Diana for some great tips there... I recommend everyone takes a visit to this shop to check out some of the bags for sale!

Spirit of Christmas Fair, Nov 07

I love Christmas and so having been sent a free ticket from the very wonderful Stephanie of Feephanie, who by the way makes the most fantastic little polymer clay elves... like this one

decided to pop along on a date that coincided quite nicely with my birthday! Here's how I got on...

With my ticket in hand and very excited I took to the ground floor first, but where to start I needed a floor plan!

As you can see the ground floor was packed with exhibitors selling gift and decoration ideas. I think I saw just about everything from crafters and artisans, gadgets for the home, interior decorations, clothing, kid's presents and even gardening equipment. Some stands were lavishly presented by bigger scale businesses, whilst there was a really hand crafted feel from the artists. I think someone said there were about 170 exhibitors... I couldn't count... I was too bemused/in awe/shoppy fingers!

Then I noticed the upstairs - food, wine... oh, and do I smell a chocolate fountain!?! I did indeed! As you can imagine I managed a fair amount of tasting and purchasing from this floor too!

It was such a huge venue that although at certain times of the day and in certain places the crowds were heaving, it wasn't an over whelming show... ooops maybe I shouldn't have told you about it?!

I do recommend a visit if you have the time next year, there are lots of great ideas. Here is the show info...

Dates
7 - 11 November 2007

Location
Grand Hall, Olympia

Opening Times
Wednesday 7 November 10am - 6pm
Thursday 8 November 10am - 6pm
Friday 9 November 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10 November 10am - 6pm
Sunday 11 November 10am - 5pm

Advanced ticket prices were available and are often that little bit cheaper. They also had a fantastic print your own ticket facility, which made a nice change from waiting for the postman!

On the door prices
Adult £17
Child (12-15) £8.50
Child (Under 12) Free

Here is the main website if you wish to find out more information - http://www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk/index.asp

A Sunny Day...

Woke up this morning and the sun is shinning. Might be a little cold outside, but DaWanda has warmed me up! Why you ask? Well several items from my store have been featured on important site pages.

Firstly my bag got featured on the Trends Page...

Here is a link and a picture for a closer look... Antique Princess Embellished and Beaded Clutch Purse

And secondly one of my flower brooches was featured on the catalogue front page of each language site...

Here's the link and picture... Bloom Flower Brooch

Over the last few weeks I am really starting to notice some traffic in my DaWanda shop at Sara's Texture Crafts and already have a return customer. I couldn't be more thrilled! It has also given me lots more confidence to get out there and show myself off, so watch this space as I am preparing for my first craft fair and also an exhibition... News will come by way of a new feature called 'Diary of a Textile Crafter'.

Until then I will leave you with a taster of the other matching items available at my DaWanda Store!

Sara x

http://en.dawanda.com/shop/SarasTextureCrafts

Indie Public a place for Crafters to network!

As you have probably noticed from my side bar I am a member of Indiepublic. This is a great new site where crafters can meet, chat, show off their work or items for sale and also enter brilliant competitions. I've been a member for a few months now and love the way the site works and also the people I have met, so I thought it was about time I told you a little bit more about Indiepublic.

Here is my interview with Indiepublic's founder Sion, from mid October 2007...

1. What is http://www.indiepublic.com/?

Indiepublic is a social network for independent artists, designers, retailers and those that blog about them, as well as a site for their supporters.

2. When and why did you decide to set up a social network for Independent Artists?

The "when" is fairly simple; Indiepublic was launched in July of 2007. The "why" is slightly more involved. Here's the story: I also have been running another blog called Cuteable (http://www.cuteable.com)/ since October of 2006, with an emphasis on cute things for you and your home. As Cuteable grew, I found myself continually inspired by the creativity, hard work and friendliness of independent artists and designers, and wondered if there was another way to give these wonderful folks a "home" on the web.

After several months of thinking I hit upon the idea of creating a social network, whereby these artists and designers could not only further promote their businesses, but also make friends and be inspired by one another. Indiepublic is the result of these efforts, and has exceeded my expectations beyond my wildest dreams.

3. What can I see and do there?

There are quite a few things you can do on Indiepublic! Members of course can create their own personal profiles and share their photos, videos and start their own blogs. They can also make friends with other Indiepublic members as well as join groups and participate in the forums. In addition, we have a Learning Library where you can read tips and tutorials from our members, as well as an ongoing Member of the Day which features one randomly selected member to be featured on the homepage.

All of this can be quite overwhelming for newcomers, which is why I've put together a FAQ (link: Indiepublic - FAQs) to help folks get started.

4. How many members are there?

At present, we have approximately 2950 members. We should pass the 3000 member mark before the end of this month, which is very exciting considering that Indiepublic started with a single invitation to 10 of my closest blogging and Etsy friends!

5. I noticed a new site Indie Contests…What is Indie Contests?

Indiecontests (http://www.indiecontests.com)/ is a brand new site I launched with deals and contests from independent artists, designers and retailers (as well as bloggers). As both an artist and a shopper, I thought it'd be great to have a single place where people could not only find great deals but also further promote their indie goods and services. Like Indiepublic, Indiecontests is of course completely free and has been very popular, with over 300 submissions in less than a month.

Thank you Sion!

I really do urge you crafty types to get over to Indiepublic and check it out... here's a link to my page there Sara's Texture Crafts
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Spotlight Feature #13 - Beth Quinn

Today's feature is a jewellery artist who works with vintage materials, which is something that is very close to my heart and something I use a lot in my design work... but enough about me! Let's meet Beth Quinn...

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter?

I am a self-taught mixed media and jewelry artist. I have been crafting for what like seems forever. When I was younger I did cross stitch and sewing. Later I moved on to scrapbooking and then I found mixed media art and fell in love and began incorporating it into my vintage jewelry.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

I find my inspiration in so many places online, in magazines like country home and country living, Mary Engelbreit, in store ads like pottery barn and anthropologie, in books and just in my everyday life. I love using vintage items in my work and recycling old things - I like the vintage "decayed elegant" look.

3. Do you sell your work, or is it purely for pleasure?

Yes I do sell my work online at my website http://www.bethquinndesigns.com/ and at etsy http://www.bethquinndesigns.etsy.com/. Also my cousin and I are starting our own website very soon called Paper Pearls, http://www.paperpearls.com/ and http://www.paperpearls.etsy.com/.

4. If someone was looking to take up this craft should they have any related experience before they start?

I don’t think you really need experience since I am self-taught, sometimes basic classes at art/craft stores, conventions, workshops etc. help. Enjoying making jewelry is a must!

5. What would be your top 5 tips for a beginner?

Be patient with yourself when learning it always takes a little practice to learn something new, sometimes a little trial and error. Don’t feel like you have to make a masterpiece when you are just starting out.

Read up on what you are trying to make a basic jewelry or beading book will help you with all the tools you need and how to use them.

Don’t go overboard with buying supplies at first. Start with a few basics to make sure its what you enjoy and go from there. Its easy to think you need everything when you are starting out but usually just a basic kit and your imagination.

Look for inspiration to find what you like and what your style is by going online , in books or magazines – this always jump-starts creativity.

Look for different items to add to your art /jewelry it doesn’t have to be a "normal" item to be called a jewelry item - examples the hardware store, old vintage pieces etc. Thinking outside of the box.

6. What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?

• A basic jewelry tool kit : needle nose pliers, round nose pliers, crimpers, bead reamer, and wire cutter- and E6000 glue.
• Some beading needles and beading wire/thread.
• Soldering gun and solder (silver gleem is the shiniest).
• Vintage beads and baubles , buttons, and earrings to recycle.
• Old book paper, old images, old dictionaries.

7. Can you recommend a technique or tips book ideal for a beginner?

A few of my favorite books that have helped me are "the impatient beader" by Margot Potter. If you want to learn to solder a good one is Pretty Little Things by Sally Jean Alexander and just for a little inspiration is the new book French Inspired Jewelry by Kaari Meng which also helps with jewelry making with vintage items.

8. Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?

I buy a lot of my items at flea markets and thrift shops, I am always in search of vintage items – I also use a lot of old buttons and earrings. I do mix some new things too like Czech glass beads, semi precious stones – Mostly I have bought these type of items online scouring sites like ebay, and fire mountain gems is a good spot! For soldering tools look for brands like Mikasa ( soldering gun) and Canfield makes solder for jewelry.

Thank you Beth for taking the time to show us your stunning work...

Twisted Threads 'Knitting & Stitch Show' Oct 07

I wanted to tell you a bit about the recent craft fair I attended at Alexandra Palace.

The knitting and Stitch Show is a favourite of mine and as one of the largest exhibitions in the UK, it certainly shows off some of the finest and newer craft companies/artists.

I was lucky enough to be asked to show at this year's exhibition, but unfortunately I was snowed under with freelance work so couldn't take part, but I did however manage a few hours to catch a glimpse of what was on offer.

I attended the show on the Thursday and found it to be very, very popular with visitors. Every aisle was a sea of hungry shoppers and eager crafters finding kits and equipment for their next big project. And I don't think anyone went home disappointed!





The main emphasis of the show this year centered around two main themes, firstly knitting. There were teach yourself how to knit classes and stands, along with lots of fantastic art and yarn finds on individual exhibitor displays. The second was the new Needle Felt Machine... and yes, I did buy myself one, so keep an eye out for some of my latest shop creations at Sara's Texture Crafts on DaWanda and Sara's Texture Crafts on Etsy!



The show combined different areas of exhibits and stands, firstly was the main mall packed with craft retailers and book shops, secondly was the textile gallery showcasing both established and new artists and lastly was the learning curve area. Twisted thread billed this area as;

We don't try and pretend that within a busy Show we can offer the best educational environment. What we can do is to offer you a "taster" of a wide range of subjects all introduced by top figures within their respective fields and to do so at either a ludicrously modest charge or entirely free of charge! Get onto The Learning Curve and enjoy!

Look out too for The Ten Minute Tutorial logo. There is no need to book such sessions - just grab an available place and you will be offered a mini session to introduce you to some basic techniques and ideas. They are offered absolutely free and provide a great way to get a grounding in a subject. Feel absolutely free to ask to ask the most basic questions - don't be embarrassed because we all have to start somewhere!

Most of the classes were fully booked before hand, so I couldn't get into those on the day, but I did come across plenty of busy crafters trying out the new felting machine I had just bought...


I definitely recommend a visit to this show, as I think it is a really great venue for inspiration. Here are the details and travel info quoted from the website and catalogue;

The Knitting and Stitching Show will be staged from Thursday 11th to Sunday 14th October.

Opening hours are 10.00am through to 5.30pm except Sunday when the Show closes at 5.00pm.

Alexandra Palace is located in a beautiful park in the north of London and affords terrific views of the City in the distance. The lovely building forms a wonderful "home" for The Knitting and Stitching Show and is actually very easy to get to by road, rail, underground or bus. Alexandra Palace is signposted from several miles away and these signs are supplemented by specific Knitting and Stitching Show signs.

By Coach - Many coach companies run coaches to the show... log onto the website for more info.

By Car - There is free parking at Alexandra Palace for 2000 cars. Alexandra Palace is situated:

• 1 mile from the North Circular Road (A406)
• 5 miles from the M1 (Junction 2)
• 8 miles from the M25 (Junction 25)
• 5 miles from Piccadilly Circus
  

Major roads are signposted to Alexandra PalaceBy UndergroundTake the Piccadily line to Wood Green Station to connect with the free shuttle service which is available on most show days or the W3 Bus (5 minute bus ride).

By Bus - The W3 bus route runs from Northumberland Park to Finsbury Park and links the Palace with Wood Green and Alexandra Palace Stations. A free shuttle bus also operates on most show days.

By Rail - Mon-Fri - Every 15 minutes from Kings Cross, changing at Finsbury Park for Alexandra Palace Station OR from Moorgate direct.Saturday - Every 15 minutes from Kings Cross to Alexandra Palace Station (11 minutes).Sunday - Every 30 minutes from Kings Cross to Alexandra Palace Station (11 minutes).Both the free shuttle service and W3 bus stop just outside the station to connect you to the Palace (3 minutes bus ride). Exhibition visitors should ask for the Palm Court entrance bus stop.

To find out more about Twisted Thread shows visit http://www.twistedthread.com/index.asp

DaWanda Sellers Blog Group - Update #8

Good Morning all!

We have a few new members this month, which takes us to 30wonderful blogs, which you can find here- Member List. For anyone interested in joining, please find the application form link here DaWanda Sellers Blog Group - Application form.

Today I want to introduce you to two members of the blog group in my special double feature update!

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Firstly is Jackie, with her wonderful colour and texture inspired shop Stitchworks

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

I started City & Guild classes in Creative Studies (Embroidery) when my children were quite small and I had to study at weekends or by distant learning. I was lucky enough to have some great tutors including Val Campbell-Harding and Janet Edmunds. I had not done any embroidery since Junior School, but I got really hooked and also enjoyed visits to the V&A and learning about the history of textiles.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

My inspiration over recent times has been from nature, both my garden and the views in the surrounding Hampshire countryside. I also love new techniques. I rarely make an item to sell, in usually starts off as just having fun with a new stitch, technique, or colour combination. I have just started an Art and Design Course and I hope this will extend my horizons, providing new inspiration.

3. Do you sell your work?

Yes, this year I have started to sell my work on both Etsy and Dawanda.

Stitchworks on DaWanda
Stitchworks on Esty

So far I have only sold a few items, but it is a lovely surprise when someone in Australia or Holland buys something you have made.

4. You mentioned that you sell on DaWanda. How did you find out about the site and how long have you been selling there?

I have been listing on DaWanda since the spring this year and I found out about it because one of the organisers found my blog and suggested I have a go at selling there.

5. Tell me a bit about your current DaWanda collection.

There is plenty of variety in the items I am selling, but they usually consist of stitch in some form and surface design techniques. Currently I am selling small embroidered bags, fabric covered sketch books, a hand felted bowl, an embroidered picture and one made of metal and handmade paper.


Do pop in and take a look at Jackie's shop... there are plenty of purchases to be made, especially for Christmas!


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For my second feature I would like to introduce you to Katrin of Sew-mad, who has inspired me to organise my craft cupboard with her unique craft organisers, oh and then there are the record bags too!

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

Hard question. I can't remember when it all started, as our family is pretty "crafty" anyway. Some of my earliest childhood memories are making pottery or silk-painting with my mom or doing some woodwork with my father (well... what a 3-year-old can do *gg*), but sewing really got me when I was nine and "needed" new clothes for my Barbie-doll but couldn't afford to buy them. My mother dug out her neglected sewing machine and off I went. What started with doll clothes soon was continued with clothes for me and over the years I jumped from clothes to quilts back to clothes and handbags. That's where I am now, more than 20 years later... besides my "real and moneymaking" job, my house, the yard and my family. Think I can be happy with what I have ^-^

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

Anywhere. It can be an old movie, a new magazine, a walk through the city or a windswept day at the shore. Often it depends on my mood and if my eyes are open for it. Sometimes it's overwhelming and sometimes there are days when literally nothing comes to my mind. But I think every person who does something creative knows those feelings.

3. Do you sell your work?

Yes. I do have a small shop at DaWanda (Sew-mad on DaWanda) and you may also find me on small craft fairs/markets in my area. I prefer to work on request and make unique things of which I can be sure that the recipient will like it. I still find it hard to "just make something" and hope that someone might eventually like what I did. Not everything I sew goes into my shop, as I also make gifts for friends or for myself. To get a clue of what I'm doing you can also pop in at my blog and say "Hi" at Sew-mad the Blog

4. You mentioned that you sell on DaWanda. How did you find out about the site and how long have you been selling there?

I was invited by Claudia - one of the founders of DaWanda - back in 2006 and I can proudly say that I was one of the first sellers there. The community was very small, and it's amazing how much it has grown in such a short time!

5. Tell me a bit about your current DaWanda collection.

Currently I mainly sell handbags, a few accessories and handmade stuff for knitters (like custom knitting needle rolls, stitch markers and project bags etc.). I'm planning on selling my own clothes patterns, but this will take some more time ;)


This is another great store to visit, so do please pop over and see what you can stock up with for Christmas!

Here are the final UK post days before Christmas that Royal Mail can recommend for pre-Christmas deliveries.

Airmail Rest of the World - 7th December

Airmail Eastern Europe, USA, Canada & Japan - 10th December

Airmail Western Europe - 13th December

UK Inland Standard Parcels - 14th December (over 1kg)

UK Inland 2nd Class - 17th Decemeber

UK Inland 1st Class - 20th Decemeber

Happy Shopping everyone!

Sara x

Come and visit me, for craft news, my blog, events and shopping at http://www.sarastexturecrafts.fusiveweb.co.uk/

Etsy Link - http://sarastexturecrafts.etsy.com/ (Handmade Jewellery, accessories artwork and gifts)

DaWanda Link - http://en.dawanda.com/shop/sarastexturecrafts (Handmade Jewellery, accessories artwork and gifts)

eBay Link - http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Saras-Texture-Crafts (Craft kits & equipment)

Blogasaurus!

Thank you to Andreanna who writes her blog, Blogasaurus for including a lovely blog post all about moi! She chose to feature one of my headbands at DaWanda and gave me a lovely write up. Please pop over and take a peek at Fabulous Finds: Sara's Texture Crafts

Craft Tips - Tips For Entering Needlework At Your Regional Or State Fair by Tana Dixon

If your skill level is good, I would encourage you to share your needlework at your regional or state fair. It is a worthy project to prepare a piece for the fair. Stitchers love to see what others are doing, perhaps drawing inspiration for their own projects. And if you win a ribbon, the feeling of excitement and accomplishment is fantastic!

Be sure to read the contest rules ahead of time, and particularly note when the entry is due to the fair. I am a fine one to talk, because I almost missed the deadline for this year’s fair by working on my piece up until the last moment. But do as I say and not as I do, and be sure to allow yourself several extra weeks to get the entry into the delivery system for the fair. That way you can relax knowing that your entry arrived there with plenty of time to spare. Most entries are due well in advance of the actual opening of the fair to the public, so note the dates and get your entry together accordingly. Websites can be very helpful in obtaining basic fair information. Most either list the information online or else give you further contact numbers. Be sure to read the directions for submitting forms and payments to be sure that you are not disqualified in that regard.

The first criterion for entering a successful project is to choose a design that is worthy of a ribbon. This may seem obvious, but it is a bedrock issue. The judges at these fairs will have the credentials to discern the best creative efforts. They will know their subject well. So a beautiful design will be a prime consideration. What is a good design? We can all recognize good design when we see it, even if we don’t know specifically from an art viewpoint what draws us to the design. Is there something about your design that makes it truly unique in a beautiful way? Is it the most beautiful example of your chosen technique that you have seen lately? Then you are probably on your way to a winner. Your winning design will be hanging as if in an art gallery, so the piece must have that “special” quality that makes people stop and take note of it.

Use the best design you can find executed in the best materials possible. Without being specific, which crewel kit of these two do you think will show more quality—one bought from a local hobby store for $15 or one that contains materials worth $70? Put the two finished pieces side by side, and you will easily tell the difference. If your basic design and materials do not have quality, no amount of skill in the execution of the design will make up for that difference! There are some mass-marketed crewel designs that look nice, but I would encourage you to take your talent to the next level and look for a design that you like in the premium quality kits. For crewel, always work in 100% wool on good quality linen. Once you get used to the English linen twills, you will prefer them as a lovely background material. Here again, you will pay more for linen twill, but the quality is worth the cost.

In crewel, technique is all the difference between a good piece and a great piece. These differences in technique can be subtle, but they are so important. Crewel stitches should always look smooth and even in tension. The stitching should look as if it were done with a light hand—almost lightweight and delicate in appearance with no apparent bulkiness to the execution of the design. (Hint: Is the back of your design neat in appearance?) It may take some practice to get to this level of stitching, but stay with it until you get there! Crewel is so enjoyable once you know how to do it well. If your design itself emphasizes a particular stitch, be sure that you are very proficient with that stitch. For example, if the design consists of a bowl of satin-stitched flowers, can you do really perfect satin stitch? Such a design will be a delight if the satin stitches are supreme, but it will only look mediocre if satin stitch is not your specialty. So look for a design that really showcases your best stitching.

Be willing to pull out areas and re-work them until the stitching is perfect. When I did the exotic tail feathers of the bird in “Warwick,” I decided that I would do the feathers as many times as it took to be satisfied with the results. Some of the best crewel stitchers re-work areas multiple times in order to get them right. When I finish a piece, I look at it for several days to make sure that I am totally satisfied with all of the stitched areas. Sometimes I adjust something here or there. Or I may see a missed stitch as I study the piece, and now is a perfect time to correct that area. When I am totally satisfied, it is time to decide on the finishing features.

When your design is complete, be sure that the finishing details are worthy of your work. Have your crewel piece blocked professionally or learn how to block it yourself. Be sure to give it a lovely framing job, and emphasize to your framer that the framing job must be exceptional. Avoid, however, a framing and matting job that overpowers the needlework piece. If the framing job outshines the needlework, you might actually miss a prize. The needlework itself should be the focus of the finished piece. If your work is good, the frame will complement the piece as a good support that allows the needlework to shine through.

Most of all, just go ahead and enter a piece! The entry fees are usually nominal, and you might just win a ribbon! Good luck, and enjoy your stitching!

Written by;

Tana Dixon

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Thank you Tana for another great article, I am sure that this will be extremely useful to anyone wishing to enter their pieces for competitions.

Spotlight Feature #12 - Jessica @ WhimsybyJess

There are lots of fun and unique gifts on the web and today's feature is one of them. I recently spoke to Jessica of WhimsybyJess, to find out more about her cute, crochet crowns for kids.

1. Tell me a bit about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter.

I have been crafting for as long as I can remember. My Great-grandmother taught me to crochet when I was very young. And, although I dabble, and enjoy many other crafts, crocheting is the one that has stuck and I always go back to.

2. Where do you find your inspiration?

I get inspiration from so many places. My first and favourite place to look is nature. I love moss and leaves and anything green, really. I also look at things like fabric and scrapbook paper, I find some really interesting color combinations and designs from both.

I also love mythical movies like Lord of the Rings, and finding unique illustrations of fairies. From these I find inspiration for things to add to the crowns, or ideas for different techniques to try.

3. Do you sell your work, or is it purely for pleasure?

I do sell my work. http://www.whimsybyjess.etsy.com/ is where you can find me online. I also enjoy participating in local (CA, Bay Area) arts and craft fairs, it's really fun to meet other crafters and for people to get to see and feel my work in person. I get a lot of good feedback that way.

I also make gifts for family and try to make things for myself or my son once in a while, but that hardly ever happens, the piece will end up looking so cute that I just have to put it up for sale, or give it away to pass it on to someone else.


4. If someone was looking to take up this craft should they have any related experience before they start?

Like I said, my Great-grandmother originally taught me to crochet, but I actually didn't use the craft for many years, and started again as a teen-ager. I think her original teaching gave me a good foundation, but I am a firm believer in self-teaching. I have taught myself how to do many other crafts. Just learn about what your interested to learn, get the needed supplies and start practising.

I taught myself needle felting after seeing so many amazing creations made using this technique. I read a lot about it then got my necessary supplies and started making leaves and bugs. And, I make mistakes and find out more efficient ways to complete the techniques, and just learn as I go.

5. What would be your top 5 tips for a beginner?

• Research before you start. The Internet is a great resource for finding instructions and tutorials.
• Don't limit yourself. Find amazing inspiration and beautiful projects. You may not be able to make your chosen project as a beginner, but it's great to have something to shoot for.
• Use quality supplies. It's always funnier to complete a project that has been crocheted with soft yarn, hand spun wool (if it's within your budget) is my favourite.
• Join a club or group of people with the same interests. It's great to share inspiration and ideas not to mention get lots of good, hands-on help!
• Don't be afraid to rip out your stitches and start again. Practice makes perfect, as they say!

6. What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?

• A basic set of crochet hooks. You can find this at any craft store, or at your local yarn shop. But, it's good to start with a set, then go from there adding sizes as you try new yarn gauges and patterns.
• A good instruction book. Most pattern books include basic instructions at the beginning or end of the book, so this is not hard to find, and it'll be a great resource for learning pattern abbreviations and different stitches.
• Scissors. I know this is very basic, but it's a good idea to have a pair of small scissors dedicated to yarn or fabric cutting. I try to use this advise myself, but always end up dulling my blades or gumming them up by using the scissors to cut tape, or any random thing that needs cutting when I can't find another pair handy!
• If you'd like to try needle felting I would recommend a basic set of barbed needles, there are 3 basic sizes.
• You'll also need a foam block for your working surface
• And, wool roving in a variety of colors, depending on what you'd like to make.

7. Can you recommend a technique or ‘tips’ book ideal for a beginner?

I've gotten a lot of good information from 'The Encyclopaedia of Crochet' the title alone tells you that this book will have Lots of information.

Another book that I love is 'The Illustrated Book of Needlecrafts', this book has all the basic information regarding crochet, as well as knitting, embroidery, quilting, rug making, smocking and a few other crafts. But, this one is great if you aren't sure which craft you'd like to focus on or you just want to dabble in a few.

8. Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?

My basic crochet hook set is Susan Bates brand. It can be found at any large craft store, and it's an affordable set for beginners that will last for years to come since they are metal hooks.

My current favourite brand of yarn is Malabrigo. This is a hand spun, kettle dyed, merino wool yarn that is made in Uruguay. They literally make hundreds of colors, and many independent yarn shops carry this brand. If you'd like to know more about the yarn here's the website: http://www.malabrigoyarn.com/. I use this yarn for most of the crowns that I create, because the colors are beautiful and the yarn is so soft. By the way, my favourite color of theirs is 'Lettuce' it's a beautiful green and I love the name!

Thank you Jessica... I wish you every sucess with your store, I'm sure you will sell out for Christmas!