Saturday, February 28, 2009

Meet Katie at 55MapleDesigns and KatiesKreations


"Pomegranate - Pottery Shard Necklace" by 55 Maple Designs

Katie, from 55MapleDesigns and KatiesKreations, and I met last December when I discovered her shops, inquired about some custom orders and a fabulous trade ensued. We became fast friends and now "talk" almost daily. She is a BUSY and talented mom of four beautiful girls. Truly an inspiration! The items I traded with Katie were some of my favorite gifts this year. Everyone was delighted with their treasures. Check out her blog for even more on Katie - KatiesKreations2.

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

I consider myself kind of a jack-of-many-trades. I mostly make jewelry, but use many different mediums (i.e. paper, beads, wood). My Mom and I started making jewelry together. Originally, when I started out it was a mother-daughter team, that was fun. She no longer makes new jewels, but is a true supporter of my "little" business!

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Thinking and dreaming up new ideas.






3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Following through on those new ideas and actually finishing a project. I'm infamous for getting all of my supplies for a new craft and then letting the supplies sit around for months collecting dust. Oh if there were only more time in the day.

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...


Artwork by Salt Marsh Pottery.
Hands and Feet imprints from each of my four little sweeties when they were under 2 months old. (These pieces are much like Erin's pieces -
Elm Studio Online)

...item in your shop...



"Purple Powerade Fringe" at Katies Kreations

...item in your favorites list...



"This Is A Print Of A Raven-Haired Beauty Dreaming Big" by The Dreamy Giraffe

...Etsy purchase...



Custom Order from Sarahs Sky

This was a broken plate from my grandmother's china set (that is now mine) that Sarah made into many necklaces for me, my mom, cousins, sister, sister in law and my four little sweeties.

...Etsy shop...

The B-Line



Lovelies by The B-line

...blog or website...

http://fabulousfunfinds.blogspot.com/

...source of inspiration...

Anything I can get a hold of at craft stores...lately, especially am inspired by buttons and ribbon.

...item you've sold...



"Intertwined - Silver and Pearls Crocheted Bracelet" at 55 Maple Designs

...piece of advice...

Always keep yourself fresh by trying new things/crafts.

...rule to break...

No eating after 8pm.


"Pumpkin Pie - Boutique Style Snap Clip Set" at Katie's Kreations.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009


Soleils by Amy at The Peach Tree

Amy lives up to her name... She is truly a peach! I met her early on in my life on Etsy and we have been friends ever since. She has a beautiful shop featuring timeless jewelry and can often be spotted on the front page at Etsy. I'm her watch dog of sorts... her fabulous jewels appear on the front page and I quickly let her know :) Currently residing in Brooklyn, Amy is originally from Wisconsin which gives us an extra special bond. I will interview her soon so be on the look out!

Amy is sponsoring a Giveaway at Sandier Pastures where you can enter to win these lovely earrings - aren't they gorgeous?!? Check it out! You can also visit Amy at her Etsy shop The Peach Tree and her blog The Peach Tree Brooklyn.

Monday, February 23, 2009


Spring Basket - Leather and Fabric Collage Bracelet

As a shabby chic yet rustic loving girl at heart, my latest and current favorite new creations are my leather collage bracelet cuffs. Fashioned from leather and a fun, fresh assortment of vintage treasures, each one is a joy to create and inspires another! I posted this one last night. It has a very cool basket weave leather for the base, a unique pink mother of pearl closure button and a variety of spring goodies as the centerpiece. Enjoy!