Sunshine Award

Thank you to TataniaRosa for nominating me for a Sunshine Blog Award. I'm so very honoured. According to her blog this award is given to those whose postivity and creativity inspires others in the blog world.

Sunshine Award Rules 

 Put logo on blog or within post

Pass award on to 12 bloggers

Link nominees within blog post

Let nominees know they have received the award by leaving a comment on blog

Share the love and link the person from whom you received this award

Here are my 12 nominees

Etsy Steam Team The blog for one of my etsy teams filled with loads of talented steampunk artists and interesting steampunk articles. 

Etsy Trade-A-Holics Another etsy team blog. This is the place to find news about trading events and more. I have had so much fun trading with teams members I've found it much more satisfying than selling. Everyone on etsy should join.

EtsyBloggers Team Yet another etsy team blog. A collection of bloggers promoting talented etsy artists.

Handmade Artists Forum And another etsy team blog. An awesome blog dedicated to supporting handmade.

Oh Canada! Featuring talented Canadian etsy artists.

Trans-Canada Etsy Team Blog Another blog featuring Canadian etsy artists.

Sellers Assisting Sellers Great blog full of ideas and tips for sellers.

Handmade Craft Show A great place to advertise your shop.

Misty's Musings Just because I love her work. Dragons are my favorite people.

The Trading Post @ Artfire The official blog for the Artfire Trading Guild. Another fun trading group.

Steampunk Links Because I love steampunk.

Tom Banwell - Leather and Resin Projects I love his steampunk creations. They inspire me to work harder on my own.

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from One Delightful Day on etsy.

From OneDelightfulDay's Shop Announcement:

"If you see something you like in my shop, and would like something similar custom made for you, please feel free to ask!"

What a great costume and I love the pose in this picture. Having made a few steampunk costumes myself I can tell you this would definitely be a big hit on the convention scene. It's a fabulous design and the hat is to die for. Whether you're into steampunk or not you should check out all the fabulous costumes from One Delightful Day. Just click on the picture.

Complete Steampunk Gown Set 

(Jacket and Skirt, Blouse, Underskirt)

The Handmade Tweet

Today's handmade Tweet comes from Daisy Jane Designs on etsy.

From DaisyJaneDesigns Bio:

"Thank you for stopping by DaisyJaneDesigns.

I have been making Fine Silver PMC jewelry now for about 2 years. PMC is a wonderful material that offers a diversity that sterling silver doesn’t. PMC is made of tiny particles of pure silver suspended in an organic binder. The binder is basically clay made out of plant matter. I squish, roll, press, stamp, carve, mold, cut, sand, join, dry, and then fire the clay either with a torch or in a kiln. PMC must fired at 1100 – 1650 degrees to ensure strength. PMC does not contain copper or any other metal that would make it an alloy, like sterling silver. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals which is usually copper. Fired PMC is 99.9% pure silver!"

I am such a ring whore and this one keeps calling to me. There is so much fine detail on it. You have to look at the other images of it and see what I mean. PMC is such a fascinating material I'd love to try it if only I had a kiln. If I tried a torch I'm sure I'd set something on fire, probably me. Click on the picture to see more fabulous fine silver creations by DaisyJaneDesigns.

Garden Party Ring in Fine Silver

The Handmade Tweet

The Handmade Tweet for today comes from Sleepy Robot 13 on etsy.

From sleepyrobot13's Bio:

"My name is Lisastarchild, yes this is my real first name, no my parents weren't hippies! lol. I am a handmade Art toy maker from Cleveland, Ohio. I am inspired by designer toys, urban vinyl and the art of Luke Chueh and Buff Monster. I currently hand sculpt all of my figures out of polymer clay, but hope to someday be able to afford to produce a small run of some of my characters in vinyl. After loosing my job last year I turned to crafting to pay my rent and bills until I found a new job. At this time I still have not found permanent employment, so crafting is my only income. Just know that every order pretty much goes toward living expenses and supplies."

This little guy is just so cute I can't stand it! Who would think of putting a robot in glow in the dark underpants? Well obviously Lisastarchild did and she made it adorable. All of her robots are uber cute but this little one made me laugh. Click on the picture to see all of her cute robots, and monsters too.

Super Hero Robot w/ Glow n The Dark Underpants

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Fire Rae's Lampwork on ArtFire.

From Fire Rae's Lampwork's Studio Announcement:

"Welcome!! Fire Rae's Lampwork is a mother daughter team bringing you handmade lampworked beads and sculptures for your finishing touches. We also offer finished jewelry in a wide variety of designs. All handmade and handcrafted in our home studio. Please enjoy your stay and thank you for stopping by. Gloria Rae Nichols Chelsea Rae Rezabek"

I'm constantly amazed by what people can do with lampwork. It's a little mind boggling to me trying to figure out how pendants like this one are made. They're so beautiful they're almost magical. Click on the picture to see more magical creations by Gloria Rae Nichols and Chelsea Rae Rezabek.

Lampwork Borosilicate Glass Pendant Mushroom in a Mushroom

Handmade Artists Forum Blog Ring - Featured Artist

Since this week my blog ring is featuring me (I'm so excited and honored) I've decided to feature blog ring #2's featured artist Tuscan Road Designs.

From tuscanroad's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome to my shop!
Here, you will find an eclectic mix of mod and vintage jewelry designed and handcrafted by me. Creating handmade, original and unique jewelry is my "therapy" and It has definitely unleashed my creative side. I have consistently been inspired during numerous world travels, always keeping an eye out for the beautiful and unusual bead or idea that helps make these one-of-a-kind creations so unique. So have a peek and enjoy!"

I just love old keys, which is probably why I have so many of them. She's combined this one with the most perfect accent charms to make a stunningly beautiful necklace. Click on the picture to see more of her wonderful creations. You can also check out her blog at http://tuscanroad.blogspot.com

Long Jet Crystal Chain Necklace with Charms

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes all the way from Holland, Berniolie Handmade Accessories on etsy.

From Berniolie's Shop Announcement:

"My store is full of knitted and crochet accessories. Every item is with great care handmade and designed by me.
If you have any questions about an item just send me a convo.

Feel like making the items yourself, then check out my other store with patterns;
http://bernioliesdesigns.etsy.com"




This shawl looks so soft and delicate. I would feel like an elegant Victorian lady wearing this. What a beautiful design. I'm tempted to try one of her patterns myself but it may be outside my skill level. Maybe I'll just drool over the finish product instead. If you'd like to do a little drooling yourself just click on the picture to visit her shop.

Soft pink knitted mohair shawl with ruffled edge

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from fellow HAF Team member Colette's Boutique.

From Colettesboutique's Shop Announcement:

"I enjoy creating handcrafted jewelry using sterling silver, fine silver and beautiful semi precious gemstones and sometimes sparkly crystals. Feel free to check out my earrings and necklaces etc.. and do not hesitate if you have a custom request. I will be glad to work with you to create something to match your taste and vision."

This is so gorgeous! A beautiful stone and amazing wire wrapping, which I know from experience is a very difficult thing to do. In addition to making stunning jewelry Colette also offers wire wrapping tutorials, something I could really use. Click on the picture to see all the lovely items in her shop.

Amandine Necklace

Featured EtsyBlogger for February

This month's Featured EtsyBlogger is TiLTCreations.

From TiLTCreations Bio:

"Welcome! I am a stay at home mom of a 14 and 4 year old boy. It makes life rather interesting! I sew and create whenever possible. I have been sewing and crafting for years and now enjoy sharing them with others. My creations are all made by me, by hand. Please take your time and browse around.

Visit my Tilt Too shop here on etsy for some supply destash... http://tilttoo.etsy.com

You can find me on my blogs:
http://tiltcreations.blogspot.com http://tilttreasures.blogspot.com
http://tiltcreationstoo.blogspot.com"

Awesome another Buffy Fan! I too love all thing Joss so it wasn't hard to pick a favorite item to feature. This is a great bag. It's perfect for the stylish slayer, not only will it hold her favorite stake but there's an extra pocket for her lip gloss too. Just in case your not so much into the Whedonverse, though I can't imagine why, there are many other fabulous purses and bags to choose from. Click on the picture to see them all.

Buffy B and Mr Pointy Red Messenger Bag, 

Hand Embroidered

Handmade Artists Forum Blog Ring - Featured Artist

This week's HAF Featured Artist is Reef Botanicals.

A little about Reef Botanicals products:

"About Our Soap:

We use only the finest natural ingredients in our soaps, to give you a luxurious bath experience. We therefore do not use commercial synthetic fragrance oils; if an essential oil is not available, we simply will not offer that scent. Many of our soaps have nothing but the natural scent of the ingredients involved, and are therefore suitable for those with allergies and sensitivities.

The same standard is held for colorants, and the colors you see in our soaps come only from the ingredients themselves or safe, natural additives."

OK this is definitely one of my fantasies, cover my body with chocolate. Oh wait, it's soap right? Oh well close enough, at least I won't have to have another shower later. But will I be hungry when I get out of the shower? Think it's worth the risk but if you prefer something less sweet click on the picture to see their whole line of handmade luxury bath products.

Honey Chocolate Soap

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from a shop that I'm surprised I haven't thought to feature before now, Binary Winter Press on etsy.

From binarywinter's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome to the Binary Winter Press Shop! Our clothing features the things we love best, from Art Nouveau to robots, steampunk and satellites. All designs are created and illustrated by us, Cody and Shea. Everything is sweatshop-free and printed by hand in an eco-friendly and vegan workshop. Please convo us with any questions or for custom orders. Thank you!"

I don't know why I have not featured this shop before. I'm crazy about these T-shirts. I have one of these myself and I always get compliments when I wear it. It's great to still go a little steampunk even when you can't wear a costume. They have loads of other great designs too, I especially like the Octo-Pi. Click on the picture to see all of them.

Tender Time Bomb in Brown

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Star Creations on etsy.

From Star Creations Bio:

"craft addict who likes working with everything from metal,stones wirewrapping to polymer clay and mixed media collage. I have been admiring the amazing creative work of the vast etsy community for about a year now, and have decided to try selling a few of my own creations. Thanks for stopping by!! yeah,I know went a little crazy on the tree thing, they are so addictive I just couldn't stop, my mind is still racing with all sort of tree ideas,but I promise other stuff soon!!For the next couple of weeks I will be destashing to make room for more!! So keep checking in you might just see something you want!!Thanks for stopping in for a visit!!!"

Personally I love the tree thing. Here are three of my favorite things together (even better that chocolate and peanut butter) natural stones, wire wrapping and copper. How wonderfully unique! They call pyrite fools gold but I think anyone would look pretty smart wearing this beautiful pendant. Click on the picture to see more trees, and other things, from Star Creations.

Rugged Copper Tree of Life on Pyrite Stone Pendant

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes form promirta from RE~cycled Treasures on etsy.

From promirta's Shop Announcement:

"Hello & Welcome to my shop!

I hope you'll like what you see and you will return often.
****************************************************************

VACATION notice

I'll be out of the country visiting Hungary and Romania between March 9th and April 9th. I'll have access to internet but won't be able to ship items until I come back."
****************************************************************

I'm envious I wish I could take month off to visit anywhere. Oh well I'll have to be content visiting her shop. I love these earrings. I've never liked things that are too symmetrical. Click on the picture to see more asymmetrical, and some symmetrical, creations by promirta.

Asymmetry. Earrings

The Handmade Tweet

The Handmade Tweet for today comes from TheoDapore on etsy.

From TheoDapore's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome to my Etsy art gallery.
Featured are modern original acrylic canvas art paintings.
All canvas art is stretched, gallery wrapped and sides are painted. Wall decor in many styles and color palettes to meet your decorating taste."

These paintings are wonderfully unusual and captivating. I had a very hard time choosing one to feature. You really need to see them all. Theo also has some wonderful handcrafted jewelry. I have one of his bracelets and I love wearing it, I've had lots of compliments. Click on the picture to check out his gorgeous shop.

Landscape abstract Original red blue acrylic canvas art READY TO HANG 

INCLUDES MOUNTING HARDWARE

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Valentine Handmade Tweet comes from Lunedesigns on etsy.

From lunedesigns's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome to my Etsy jewelry shop! If you love exotic pearls, rough-hewn gemstones, rich woods, ethnic beads, hand forged metal and vibrant glass, you're in the right place! I do too! Here you will find one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces ranging from the classy to the funky, with some earthy and hints of ethnic in between, all flavored with the spectacular scenery of northwest Montana. These pieces can be worn with both casual attire, or with the most stunning frock in your closet. It's up to you!"

What a great idea and so versatile. You can wear it as either a necklace or a bracelet. This is something I would love to get for Valentine's Day, not that I'm expecting anything. My husband just isn't into it, sigh. Oh well maybe my cats will get me something. Click on the picture to see more lovely creations from Lunedesigns. I'm sure you'll find something for your Valentine, or just for yourself.

Ruby Red Valentine's Day Convertible Necklace-Bracelet

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Lazy T Crochet on etsy.

From LazyTcrochet's Shop Announcement:

"Shawls and hats are my favorite handmade designs. I love watching Winter sports and especially love all the funky hats!
Sport Handmade!"

This just looks so cozy and I love the colours. I just want to curl up in it and watch the Olympics. Click on the picture to see more warm and cozy designs by Lazy T Crochet.

Herb Garden Shawl

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Rosebud's Lampwork Beads on etsy.

From rosebud101's Shop Announcement:

"February Sale: Hearts: 10% off. They are already marked down.

Welcome to my store. Feel free to browse and shop to your heart’s content. Thank you for taking the time to look. You are welcome back at any time. Check my profile for FAQ's. Feel free to contact me with ideas and suggestions."


I can so identify with this one. I've had a lot of days when I feel like this, especially lately. Do you think wearing this necklace would give people a warning? Probably not, they would just think it was cute. Click on the picture to check out all the cute, pretty and funky creations by Rosebud's Lampwork Beads.

Sale - PMS or Something I Said 

Handmade Lampwork Glass Bead Pendant by rosebud101

Handmade Artists Forum Blog Ring - Featured Artist

This week's HAF Blog Ring's featured artist is HaffinaCreations. Here is a look at her Artfire Shop.

From Haffina's Bio:

"I'm a busy mum of 5 with a love of jewellery and creating... and now I'm offering it for others to enjoy. I live in Australia.

I gain inspiration from everything at different times. I have very eclectic tastes and this will be apparent in the variation of items available in this studio.

Sometimes my family get involved too, especially my mum, she knits amazingly quickly.

Recently three of my sons, 13 year old twins and a 10 year old, decided to help out. So I have given them their own pages, everything on those pages is made by them, with minimal help from me.
I am the Guildmaster for the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild, a member of the Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild, The ArtFire Cafemom Team, Australians on Fire Guild and the We Love ArtFire Guild and a columnist for the Craft Techniques Department of handmadenews.org.
I am an Administrator on an online forum - Alundra's Conundrum, Moderator on the Handmade Artists Forum and a member of BeadingForum dot com dot au.
I love what I do, even though I am very busy. I am happy to receive custom orders, so if you see something you like, but you want it a different colour or slightly different style then contact me and we can work together to make you something unique that you will cherish. Please note that my items are One Of A Kind, and whilst I can make similar articles, I don't make exact copies. I am also more than happy to trade."

Wow, is is one busy lady. When does she find time to make anything? Somehow she finds time to make some of the most stunning jewelry I've seen. Like this beautiful set. I just love this! The colours are so vibrant and it's all so rich and full and organic looking. You would definitely get a lot of attention while wearing this. Click on the picture to see more fabulous creations by HaffinaCreations.

Autumn Toned Beaded Spiral Jewellery Set

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes form Fuzzy Feet Boutique on etsy.

From FuzzyFeetBoutique's Shop Announcement:

"♥ Welcome to my shop for all things Cute Crochet ♥
If you're interested in Crochet Pattern for my designs check out my other shop http://www.chiscrochetcrazy.etsy.com/

All my items are made using my own designs.They are all One Of a Kind & made with lots of love.
And you can find my Blog here http://fuzzyfeetworks.blogspot.com/"

I so love these little animals! I really must work on my crocheting. Isn't he adorable? I just want to hug him. Click on the picture to see more huggable creations by Fuzzy Feet Boutique.

Amigurumi Piggie

The Handmade Tweet

The Handmade Tweet for today comes from Face of Contentment on ArtFire.

From Face of Contentment's Bio:

"I fell in love with precious metal clay the first time I heard about it.
It feels like the alchemy I used to read about in school, and later in fantasy novels.
You take a bit of clay, sculpt it, fire it in a kiln, polish it a bit, and you have created a piece of 99.9% pure silver.
It can be fashioned into jewelry, used as art, or as an accent piece. I have spent twenty years as a special educator, a school principal, and Hebrew school teacher finding fulfillment in opening new worlds for children and teens. Having found my inner artist (I am certified as an instructor for PMC and Art Clay)
I aspire to bring the creative and magical world of precious metal clay to others.
My pieces are reflective of my eclectic background. Having held jobs that range from waiting tables, working with horses, to teaching in public and Hebrew schools, my art demonstrates my love of the simplicity of children. I have recently found a love for working with hot and warm glass. You will see in the pieces that I show, many lampworked beads, fused glass cabouchons, and wire work. I have also incorporated ecologically sound practice into my art. Several of the beads that "fail" find new life as fused pieces in barrettes, pins, and necklaces."

Wow! I only wish I had a teacher like that to inspire me. All of her work is beautiful but I especially fell in love with this one. I have a special place in my heart for wolves, probably because I belong to a costuming group called the Bad Wolves. Click on the picture to see all of her beautiful creations.

Howling at the moon pin

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Violet Pie on etsy.

From violetpi's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome to Violet Pie!
I create little toy animals ~ from needle felted wool creatures to collectible heirloom mohair and felt plushies in Kawaii style. You'll find sizes ranging from tiny miniatures to huggable softies."


The Cheshire Cat has always been one of my favorite characters. I see that look on my own cats and I know they've been up to something, and sometimes they do disappear. This cute guy has promised not to disappear though (we'll see) but with a face like that I can't imagine he'll stay in the shop for long. Click on the picture for more adorable creations by Violet Pie and remember, never trust a smiling cat.

Large Grey Smiling Cheshire Cat

Handmade Artists Forum Blog Ring - Featured Artist

This week's HAF featured artist is Nancy of The Tulgey Wood.

From Nancy's Bio:

"Often found tinkering with things probably best left alone. Happy when playing with power tools and/or wire cutters. Bead-a-holic. Shutterbug. Will spray paint anything that doesn't move. Runs with scissors.....

As you can see, I'm involved in quite a range of creative endeavors."

Reading Nancy's bio I had a revelation. She states that she has "ADD...Artistic Deficit Disorder, the inability to focus only on one craft!!!" I am afflicted with the same disorder. I feel so much better knowing there are others like me out there.

Now on to her work. I love Alice in Wonderland and this is a fabulous depiction of the White Rabbit. It even has a steampunk feel to it. How could it be more perfect. Click on the picture to see more wonderful prints, jewelry and other creations by Nancy of The Tulgey Wood.

THE WHITE RABBIT Alice in Wonderland Series 

Art Print

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Spoiled Bratzwear on ArtFire.

From Spoiled Bratzwear's Bio:

"It's true, I've gone to the dogs! I have owned several businesses over the years but never enjoyed ANYTHING like I do designing & sewing my pet fashions! I use high quality materials including Swiss and German thread, imported designer ribbon and incredible fabrics.
Although my specialty is smaller dogs, please ask if you see something you would like in a larger size."

OK I know Christmas is over but I just found this and I had to share it. What can I say, this is just too much fun. Click on the picture for more fun outfits from Spoiled Bratzwear. Check out the cool Halloween costumes. It's never too early to start planning the perfect Halloween for your spoiled brat.

Christmas Elf Hat for Little Dogs & Cats

The Handmade Tweet

The Handmade Tweet for today comes from Eiriel on etsy.

From Eiriel's Shop Announcement:

"Welcome!
Come in, pull up a chair, take a slice of cake and don't mind the cats, they'll sleep on anything.

Eclectic jewellery includes chainmaille, pearl and unique jewellery that make fantastic gifts for birthdays, christmases, anniversaries or for yourself after a hard week! I love custom orders, so please feel free to convo me if you have any special requests.

Everything here is handmade by me, an Ancient History student living and studying in Birmingham, UK."


What a stunning necklace! You couldn't help but feel special wearing this. Click on the picture to see more stunning work by Eiriel.

Pearl Tear Necklace

The Handmade Tweet

Sorry I missed posting a Handmade Tweet yesterday but I was just too busy and overwhelmed. Thankfully I got a little rest and I'm back on track today with glazedOver on etsy.

From glazedOver's Bio:

"I've been hand throwing and slab building clay forms for over 15 years. Most of my work is functional and tends toward earthy design vocabulary with an occasional inclination toward the eccentric or anthropomorphic. I am partial to earthtones and warm hues but can also find inspiration in a bold, splashy palette."


Handmade pottery is so beautiful I wish I could replace all my manufactured dishes with it. Oh if only funds were unlimited. I agree about colours, I'm partial to warm hues and earthtones myself, and these are fabulous. She has a number of different items in these colours. Click on the picture to see them all and check out her other beautiful designs.

glazedOver Small Stoneware Nesting Bowls (Set of 2)

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Island Top Glass Art on ArtFire.

 From Island Top Glass Art's Studio Announcement:

"Are you looking for colorful, whimsical, one of a kind, handmade glass lampwork beads and artisan jewelry? Well, you've come to the right place! Come on in and take a look around you never know what you are going to find in my store. Visit my website if you like www.islandtopglassart.com Thanks for stopping in, Paula"

These are just too cool! I'd love some of my cats. It just amazes me what you can do with lampwork beads. Click on the picture to see other amazing creations, animals and more traditional beads, from Island Top Glass Art.

Custom Pet Bead Caricature - Focal Glass Lampwork Bead by PaulaNC at Islandtop Design

The Handmade Tweet

Today's Handmade Tweet comes from Wicked Wallets on etsy.

From TattooLoverGirl's Shop Announcement:

"****** 25% OFF ALL VINTAGE - PRICED AS MARKED *******

* We typically ship orders within 24 hours.
* Feel free to Convo with any questions or comments, we love helping !
* Want to trade ? Just convo us and we can work something out !
* Shopping is all about fun, function, and frivolity ! We have a little of all at this shop :)"


OK coming out of the closet now. Yes I am a trekkie, not trekker, trekkie. I don't live in my mother's basement but I am a geek with a house full of action figures, costumes and a phaser or two. This would go great with my husband's Captain Kirk costume. (Trekkies that play together stay together :-) If only it bleeped like a communicator when you open it. Set phasers for stun and fire on the picture to see more totally Wicked Wallets.

The Shatner Wallet