Queer Etsy Street Team!

Light in the Darkness

2012-01-14T20:20:00.001-08:00

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the longest night of the year has passed and along with it, all the holidays and celebration times, and now comes the time of darkness and cold, as we wait for the longer, warmer days of summer. Our latest challenge reflects that time, our search for the Light in the Darkness.

First, a little something "light" to keep you warm through those long "dark" winter nights...

Gorgeous Angora cowl
by laprincessa

A beautiful beaded eyeglass chain of light and dark...

Eyeglass Chain Beaded in Gray, Black and Silver - Mist and Mystery
by Gilliauna

Create your own light in the darkness with this unique votive holder...

Ruby red votive luminary
by CrabtreeCeramics

The story of this necklace, with a light to shine in the darkness and a heart to bring us all closer together, is truly a light in the darkness...

Atacama Desert Handcrafted Copper Pendant
by Livingatnight

A message of love written with a Light in the Darkness, the planet Venus...

I Love You photographic fine art print venus sky writing
by catbirdcraft

The spectrum of light surrounded by the darkness...

Rainbow Bracelet - Aluminum chainmaille
by PridemailleDesigns

My favorite light in the darkness, the sparkling face of the moon...

Misuki, Beautiful Moon (pendant, pin, or magnet)
by FaerieGardenFancies

And out of the darkness of ashes & death rises the flaming light of the phoenix...

Firebird Phoenix Lampwork Glass Orange and Yellow Flames Encased Bird Focal Bead
by CrowbirdieBeads

And here's a treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme!

A Winter Affair

2011-12-05T20:54:00.000-08:00

The Queer Etsy Street Team has done a wonderful job interpretting our latest challenge: Winter Affair!

Beautiful light weight red shawl
by laprincessa

Hand stitched Felt Flower Pin
by creampuffcouture

Snowboarder2 male Laptop IPAD decal
by aSignofSuccess

Beaded Necklace, Vintage Brooch, Ice Blue
by Gilliauna

Wine Glass Charms, Set of 5 - Winter Nights Collection
by BuniqueBeads

White Winter Benny with the blue scarf Glass Polar Bear
by CrowbirdieBeads

Penguin Stuffy original stuffed animal
by featheredneststudio

Winter in the park photographic fine art print
by catbirdcraft

A Child's Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas with woodcuts by Ellen Raskin
by aSignofSuccess

Tiny Drag Queen Doll Fantasy Pink Feather Clothespin Couture Fairy Drag Mother
by queenofqueens

Gingerbread Girl Couple Pin
by FaerieGardenFancies

And here's a treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme!

Last Month's Challenge: LITERATURE

2011-11-08T08:28:00.001-08:00

Last month, despite being busy with all our Halloween festivities, some of our Queer Team members took the time to create pieces to represent their favorite book, story, character, or author in honor of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which is this month! (Please take the link for more information!) I am blown away with the awesomeness of these entries! I will let the pieces - and artists - speak for themselves...

Fall Leaves Beaded Necklace in Autumn Colors of Glass and Tree of Life in Silver
by Gilliauna

Inspired by Walt Whitman's Autumn Rivulets

As consequent from store of summer rains,
Or wayward rivulets in autumn flowing,
Or many a herb-lined brook's reticulations,
Or subterranean sea-rills making for the sea,
Songs of continued years I sing....
(www.everypoet.com/archive/poetry/Walt_Whitman/walt_whitman_leaves_o...)

Dripping with autumn colors and with matching wire wrapped teardrops of the same, when the idea came to me to make this piece, it was the beginning of the poem Autumn Rivulets by Walt Whitman that came to mind. With the watery theme of the poem, I've added in a few tiny crystals with a touch of blue to the piece as well.

Purple, Red, Black and Gray Swarovski Pearl and Crystal Bracelet - Strych
by BuniqueBeads

This is just one of my bracelets inspired by my favorite author, Sarah Monette. She writes incredibly lush stories and novels, often with darker, adult themes dealing with queer characters in fantasy or sci-fi settings as well as other alternative sexualities and non-traditional lifestyles. She is, in a word, AMAZING. This bracelet, "Strych," represents one of the wickedest characters in her four-book Doctrine of the Labyrinths series. The "evil wizard in the story" goes by many names, but one of those is Brinvillier Strych, I chose dark, rich colors for his mystery and his sadistic secrets, and of course, the dark ruby-red vein runs through the other colors to recall the rubies of his wizard's rings:

"Like a poison, he devours his victims from the inside, but has an allure that is difficult to resist. I chose dark, rich colors for his mystery and his sadistic secrets, and of course, the dark ruby-red vein runs through the other colors to recall the rubies of his wizard's rings. You're not supposed to like it; you're supposed to be drawn to it even though you know better."

Angels and Demons Inspired Elements of Science Illuminati Bracelet
by MikesHempBracelets

"Their name means 'enlightened ones'. They were physicist, mathematicians and astronomers. They were dedicated to scientific truth..."

This bracelet was inspired by the book "Angels & Demons" by Dan Brown. Each color stone represents one of the elements of science used by the Illuminati. Brown for Earth, Light Blue for Air, Red for Fire, and Blue for Water. The white stone represents the Light that the Illuminati strove to reveal.

Tiger Agate and Pearl Necklace
by GalleriaDiGiani

I decided in advance that I wanted to find a powerful love to inspire me. I chose Heathcliff and Catherine from Wuthering Heights. Catherine is described as having brown hair and brown eyes. The eyes being such a strong trait that her other family members share that same look.

So, with all those lovely shades of brown going on around her, I thought about what sort of jewelry might Heathcliff see that would instantly make him think of his love, Catherine.

This is what I came up with.

Original aceo art card A Midsummer Night's Dream Titania
by catbirdcraft

The character Titania in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream is Queen of the Fairies, having annoyed a jealous Oberon with her dalliances, is put under a spell by Puck while she sleeps, and so falls in love with the first creature she sees on awaking, the mortal with an ass' head, Bottom.

Moby the Whale Stuffed Animal
by featheredneststudio

This guy could tell you a whale of tale. Consider him the Moby Dick of stuffed animals... a book I have never read (but with a degree in English, I probably shouldn't admit that).

Vampire Bunny, 4x6 Print of Original Watercolor
by FaerieGardenFancies

This capricious Giclée print is perfect crossover parody of the Twilight and Bunnicula series, with a little campy Dracula added in!

While neither series was my *favorite* they are books that amused & entertained me a great deal. If you haven't ever read them, do check them out:
~ Bunnicula
~ Twilight

And here's a treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme!

Autumn Leaves

2011-10-03T07:54:00.001-07:00

Autumn is just getting started here in my corner of the world, and the Queer Etsy Street Team has outdone themselves interpretting our latest challenge: Autumn Leaves!

Butterfly Charm Bracelet Beaded in Autumn Colors of Cream, Orange and Bronze
by Gilliauna

Leaf Headband Woodland Halo in Coffee
by DollfaceDeVille

Agate Necklace
by GalleriaDiGiani

Acrylic Painting on Canvas Quote 12 x 12 "Embrace change"
by srosegraphics

Autumn Leaves in an Arrow Shaped Lace Agate Sterling Silver Cuff
by bowersstudio

Copper leaf necklace, knitted wire
by bunsandballs

Autumn Leaves Colored Hemp Bracelet with Colored Beads
by MikesHempBracelets

Autumn Leaves, Fall Bunnies, 5x7 Print of Original Watercolor
by BunnyKissd

And here's a treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme!

Spotlight on 33norashmora33

2011-09-29T07:52:00.001-07:00

Today we've taken some time to talk to treasury maven, Nora, who runs the queer-friendly shop....

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop? Vintage notions of all kinds.
For all fabulous vixens, housewives/husbands, collectors, and just about everyone.

I carry an array of collectible vintage pottery and ceramics (Bennington, Halls, Rörstrand, Luray), milk glass, depression glass, vintage clothing from the 40's, the 50's, the 60's, the 80's, Vintage high heels, Collectible books, handmade silk scarves, handmade upcycled ipod/cell phone covers, Vintage jewelry, Plus size vintage, Vintage sizes for all body types (and genders!), restraunt-ware, Vintage menswear, Vintage ties, Vintage pottery planters, Vintage figurines, Ceramics, Vintage Barware, Designer Vintage, Vintage leather purses, Queer collectibles, and much more!

I try to find vintage items of all sizes, for all genders, for all ages.

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else? I really started selling on Etsy because I was such an avid buyer and thriftier! It became a summer project that got bigger and bigger…..
I have been selling since June of 2011

40's Red Dress. Sexy Secretary Dress.
What are your favorite materials to work with? I love unique vintage dresses from all eras. I am especially partial to the 40s, 50s, and 60s.
I also have a total affinity for depression glass and milk glass, I just can’t get enough of it!

What got you interested in your craft? I’ve always been interested in fashion and thrifting. I also love to curate and take photo shoots, but I never had a desire to be in the mainstream fashion world. The etsy world fits me just fine. I grew up going to thrift stores for hours with my mom, so it’s in my blood!
Also, I have a few new projects up my sleeve. I am working of learning to paint on ceramics….and these ceramics aren’t gonna be ones to give to Grandma (unless your Grandma is Betty White or Helen Mirren). I want them to be saucy and shocking and fun. So keep a look out!

Vintage Men's Ties.
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? I was a DJ for 3 years in Montreal, where I threw queer dance parties and worked as a social justice organizer in the queer, diy, and trans communities there. I DJ around Brooklyn once in a blue moon, but I’m mostly hibernating these days and working on a Masters.

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? I just started a blog! I am finding it super fun. It is about my etsy shop, but also music, queer politics, femme identity, fun stuff and more. I used to write zines when I was a wee-little punker, and I am finding that blogging feels very similar.

60s Earrings Leather Roses. Vintage Earrings.
Does your queer identity come into play in your work? ALWAYS! Language is very important to me, you can see this in my shop categories. Rather than men and women, I have “Ladies, Grrrls, Femmes”, and “Bois, Dudes, Men” I try to use both male and butch and gender queer models for menswear. I try to use queer femmes for women's wear. Or bois for women's wear and visa versa! I like to try to get people of all shapes and sizes, all colors, all genders. I’m not there yet, but I’d like to have a very diverse presenting shop, rather than the traditional waif-ey models that you still see in many Etsy shops. I wanna queer up Etsy with my shop and my treasuries, and supporting other queer sellers!

Photo by Xavier T., Montreal 2010
Is there any advice you have for our readers? Realness Time:
Things don’t get better (mostly), you get Stronger.
“And if you can’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?
Can I get a AMEN?” –Ru Paul

Why I'm Angry

2011-09-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

So, someone asked why I/we/my community seem so angry at times in regard to Bachmann and her ilk. While I can't speak for everyone else's reasons, I can speak of my own.

See, once upon a time, there was this kinda geeky (okay, pretty damned geeky) kid nick-named Cynjon who lived in this atrocity of a city called Ocala. Well, techincally he lived outside the city proper, on the edge of an expanse of woods...this detail will become relevant shortly.

When I first moved there, I fell in with a mixed crowd of teenage "miscreants." The majority were (and still are) pretty good people, but there were others, a small group of skinheads, who were less good. Far from good even, you could say. It didn't take me long to figure out that I didn't want to associate with the latter that much...I think the time that we all went to this local music store so they could harass this guy (Rob, I think his name was) because he was gay kind of clued me in that I didn't need to be buddy-buddy with them. Unfortunately, regardless of whether I wanted to see them or not, our circles overlapped quite a bit.

I did my best to avoid them, though. If I saw them at parties, I'd leave. If there was a group of people who were likely to be hanging out with them, I wouldn't go wherever it was they were going.

My attempts at avoidance weren't always successful, and one time in particular was especially horrific. At this point I'd pretty much stopped going anywhere social for fear of running into them...but I still had to go to school. While this particular group didn't go to my school (or ANY school, for that matter) their friends...who were part of my circle of friends...did. And they were frequently picked up by that group after school. So I still had to deal with the taunts and threats and whatnot on a semi-regular basis.

One afternoon I started the walk home after school. I'd only made it maybe 1/2 a mile down the usually quiet road when a car flew by me, slammed on it's brakes, turned around and came back. Out hopped 3 of the skinheads...I could see Cindy and Kristi--part of the circle overlap, and current girlfriends of two of the skinheads, in the car with them. One of the skinheads was carrying a knife, one had a tire iron, the third nothing. Needless to say, I didn't hesitate to dash into the pine forest behind me, followed by their hooting and hollering as they chased me. The simplified version is this: I spent the next three or four hours being chased by them deeper and deeper into the woods, using their vocal-ness as a means to stay away from them, and hunkered down and hidden. It was nearing dark when I finally came across a church, where the man who was there let me use the phone to call home so somebody could come and get me.

When I got home, we called the police...who were useless. Completely uninterested. The next day, I got up, put on my clothes, and returned to the school...the same school where I would see some of the people who were in that car. Upon my mother's suggestion, I went to the dean (appropriately named Mr. Dean) to tell him what had happened. He and I did NOT have a good history together (he flat out accused me of being involve in the killing of some ag dept animals...despite that that had happened the year before I moved there)...when I told him of the previous days experience, I was told it was my own fault, for being the way I was. Namely, gay.

Eventually I left that school and that city both, and got on with my life elsewhere. And my life is a VERY good one, filled with loving folks.

But the thing is, until you've been hunted like an animal, and feared for your life, you can't truly understand where I'm coming from...where the anger comes from. Sadly, far too many of my friends have had the same experience, or similar ones. I've had many friends abused, spat upon, beaten and left for dead..some of this happened to too many people I know.

When I see people like Bachmann/Perry/etc running for public office...for PRESIDENT of this country...it turns my stomach. Literally. THAT is why I'm angry. Here are people who wants to govern us as citizens, but who believe that a significant portion of the population that they would be in charge of are LESSER than the rest. Who believe that by our very nature, we are "sick" and should be changed. Who believe that I am not deserving of the same rights as every other person in this country. How can that NOT be frightening? How can that NOT cause anger? It sends a message that ignorance and prejudice are okay and acceptable. No other group in America is legally treated in this way. No other group can be denied housing, fired from their jobs, not allowed to visit/see a spouse who is in the hospital based solely on WHO THEY ARE. There will be those who say that anger can serve no good purpose. That to embrace anger is to give in to darker tides and energy. I disagree. I think that anger, when righteous and called for, can be a tool for change and for good.

It's a tool I intend to use to the best of my ability to make sure that we keep moving forward, both as a country and as a people. When the pattern of our society includes ALL of us equally, then I will sit back and shut up....and I look forward to that day.

(Collage, 2007, using pages from a David Mack comic)

Sand and Surf

2011-08-31T10:25:00.001-07:00

Summer isn't over yet! Our team members have produced a fine batch of entries for our Summer Challenge and they all fit the theme: SAND & SURF!

Abalone shell earrings - Paua wrapped square triplet with sterling silver hardware
by EightCatDesign

Coral, Coin Pearl and Silver Necklace & Earring Set
by GalleriaDiGiani

Copper Hearts and Pearl Sand & Surf Earrings
by Livingatnight

Copper Seashell Mold
by ivorygrace7

Summer vinyl laptop IPAD wall window decals (choice of 3 decals)
by Trefethenw

Surfer female laptop IPAD decal
by Trefethenw

Lampwork Glass Bead Sun and Surf Palm Tree Ribbon Necklace
by CrowbirdieBeads

Reading Mermaid Bookmark
by BunnyKissd

And here's a Sand & Surf treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme!

Spotlight on Ottoline's Oddities

2011-07-30T16:42:00.001-07:00

Welcome to another episode of the Queer Etsy Street Team's Spotlight On...! This time, we're featuring another great vintage-themed shop...

Her shop is full of vintage clothing and accessories, antique paper ephemera, handmade sachets (lavender, cinnamon, or anise scented), and upcycled trinkets. And even better, she donates 10% of her monthly proceeds to Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary, a non-profit refuge for former farm animals! How cool is that!? But let's get into the interview...

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
I specialize in vintage ladies’ wares, paper ephemera, and items handmade using vintage components (hollow book safes and sachets for the most part).

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling?
I’ve been an Etsy fan for several years. When the results of various projects of mine started to pile up I decided to open a store of my very own.
I created my shop in February 2010, but didn’t start listing until December.

Woodland Life Vintage Ephemera
What are your favorite materials to work with?
I adore old books, lace, and chenille.

What got you interested in your craft?
I’ve been partial to vintage clothing and accessories for as long as I can remember. More than half of my wardrobe consists of vintage items. The quality and variety can’t be beat!
Old books make me happy, and turning them into quirky storage spaces is a great way to have more of them in my life.
And as for the sachets, who doesn’t like sweet smelling drawers?

Vintage Mod Floral House Dress
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop?
I’ve been experimenting a bit with photography, and I always love to make a mess in the kitchen!

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
I’m the business liaison for my neighborhood citizens association, a Planned Parenthood clinic escort, and I organize a monthly vegan baking swap. I read quite a bit--fantasy-ish interstitial fiction for the most part--, and I garden. The lavender I use in my sachets is homegrown!

Handmade Lavender Sachets: Lavender Fields Forever
Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
All facets of my identity contribute to my interactions with the world in one way or another, but I’m not quite certain how this specific part impacts things.

Is there any advice you have for our readers?
Oh, gosh. I’m still trying to work things out for myself. Hmm. I suppose my advice is to do just that: experiment with different things and find out what works for YOU.

Be sure to look for Ottoline on facebook and twitter, and if you have another other questions, she can be contacted at ottolinesoddities@gmail.com or via Etsy of course!

Spotlight on OldSkoolProductions

2011-07-13T11:39:00.001-07:00

I love this shop! It's like she's been rummaging in my mom's attic and pulling out the best stuff! She's also in the process of opening a supplies shop...details to come soon!

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop? A wide variety of vintage and antique items, but I specialize in 80's pop culture like video games, toys, and more.

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else? For as long as I can remember I've been selling stuff on Ebay. When I came across Etsy less than a year ago, I knew I had to open shop. I still sell on Ebay and flea markets from time to time but I love Etsy and I devote most of my time to making my shop the best that it can be.

Mikasa Posy Parade Bowl
What are your favorite materials to work with? Anything vintage!

What got you interested in your craft? I love old stuff! I like to learn the story behind items, and I think its awesome when you can take something someone once cherished and give it a new life.

Vintage 1973 Tea Towel Calendar Bird Design
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? I'm always doing something. Right now I am working on making my backyard the Oasis I always wanted.

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? I enjoy spending time with my lovely girlfriend, and our four legged babies. I also love being outdoors, at the beach, playing games, watching movies, or just chillin with some tunes.

Vintage Lot of 2 Yellow Pillowcases Fabric
Does your queer identity come into play in your work? I think my queer identity makes me who I am. I find that being a butch, helps me relate to a broad spectrum of people, and the items I sell appeal to men and women alike.

Is there any advice you have for our readers? If you are passionate about something, then go for it. Never let anyone or anything stand in the way of your dreams.

You can also check out OldSkoolProductions at facebook by following this link here: www.facebook.com/pages/Old-Skool-Productions/176631815694532

Sunshine & Rainbows!

2011-07-10T20:38:00.001-07:00

Our May challenge slipped into June and before we knew it was July! With all the Pride activities last month, it took us a bit to get our acts together, but it was worth the wait! Our *SPRING* Challenge entries all fit the theme: Sunshine & Rainbows!

Crystal Rainbow Bracelet in Silver and Pearls
by Gilliauna

Cute Sunshine & Rainbow on a Rock
by BunnyKissd

Dorothy Dragon
by catbirdcraft

Rainbow meadow landscape in the sun lampwork glass focal bead
by CrowbirdieBeads

Rainbow wine glass jewelry
by EightCatDesign

Gay Pride earrings rainbow glass with sterling silver
by EightCatDesign
And here's a colorful & sunshiny treasury including the lovelies above, and some other member listings that fit the theme...

Be sure to check it out and leave a comment!

Spotlight on ideology

2011-07-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another Queer Etsy Street Team member interview. This time, we shine our Spotlight on...

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop? I offer handmade jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and pendants.

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else? I first starting selling on Etsy and selling my handcrafted jewelry in general in October 2010. Etsy is my primary source for selling my items, but I also sell outside of the Internet through word of mouth, as well. You can keep posted on my shop and any other places I may sell via my Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/ideologyart and the ideology Twitter account at www.twitter.com/ideologyart

Light Violet and Dark Purple Pendant Necklace
What are your favorite materials to work with? I love working with semi-precious gemstones, crystals, and handcrafted glass beads.

What got you interested in your craft? I have always been interested in creating jewelry and have done so as a hobby for quite some time before beginning to sell my creations. I love how jewelry can work for people of all ages to express their individuality.

Green & Blue Amazonite Semi-precious Gemstone Earrings
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? In addition to my Etsy shop, I also paint, draw, write, and bake (often vegan) and enjoy being creative in any way possible in my life.

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? I also enjoy going to see live music, support local artists and artisans, go to festivals, learn about different cultures and subcultures, and spend time with my family, friends, and animal companions.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work? In part because of my queer identity, I consider myself very open-minded and accepting of various lifestyles and living situations. I consider my shop open to all people and am always open to suggestions, advice, and comments.

Rainbow and Black Handcrafted Glass Beaded Bracelet
Is there any advice you have for our readers? Explore your creativity in any way you can - however small or large - and use it for the better good in any way you can. :)

And the winner is....

2011-07-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! I'm off to random.org to select the winner of our LGBT Pride Giveaway! I hope it's me, even though I donated, some of the other stuff was so cool!

YAY!!! The winner is StephMuji! Congrats, Steph! I'll be sending you an email right now, so keep your inbox open! ^o^

And many thanks to everyone who commented for your love & support!

Sunny hugs & bunny kisses,
~Diana

New Prizes Added!

2011-06-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Two new prizes have been added to the booty for our LGBT Pride Month Giveaway!

Cloud Pillow with Love from FeatheredNestStudio

Multicolor Czech Glass Bracelet from Livingatnight
Let Your Love Shine 4x6 Postcard
And here is my contribution to the prize pack:

Be sure to head over to the MAIN ENTRY to see how to win! CLICK HERE!

LGBT Pride Giveaway!

2011-06-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

In celebration of LGBT Pride month, and in honor of the Queer Etsy Team reaching the milestone of 700 facebook fans, we've decided to host a jam-packed prize giveaway! Just look at some of the goodies you could win...

No, your eyes do NOT decieve you! All that and more could be yours as our way of thanking you for your support! Let's see the details of what your prize will include...

Whimsical Fine Art Giclee Print Big Gay Unicorn from Michelley at QueenofQueens
Night Rainbow lampwork bead pendant necklace from Lauren at CrowbirdieBeads
Beautiful White Coral from Jim at kuberacove
$30 Gift Certificate from Lisa at BunnyBear Designs and DragonFish Antiquities
Obama Rainbow Yiddish t-shirt from jerise
Music and Colors ACEO also from jerise
Queer coaster set from Johnny at Jonathonwaynedesign
Brotherly Love Beaded Rainbow Bookmark Charm from Gilliauna
Pride-Themed Postcard from BunnyKissd at Faerie Garden Fancies
Multicolor Czech Glass Bracelet from Livingatnight
Cloud Pillow with Love from FeatheredNestStudio

That's over $150 worth of fabulous gay love! And entering is SOOPER EASY!!! Just comment on this blog post and be sure to include your email address so we can reach you if you win!

..· ´¨¨)) -:¦:-
¸.·´ .·´¨¨)) Contest ends Thursday, June 30 at MIDNIGHT UTC! -:¦:-
((¸¸.·´ ..·´ The winner will be chosen randomly and announced on Friday, July 1st!
-:¦:- ((¸¸.·´*

But wait there's more!

You can get BONUS ENTRIES for doing any of the following...

Follow our blog and get ONE extra comment.
Blog about this giveaway and get TWO extra comments.
Follow QueerEtsy on Twitter & Tweet about this giveaway and get ONE extra comment.
Like QueerEtsy on Facebook and get ONE extra comment.

If you do any of the above let us know by leaving separate comments for each one. If you do any of them already, let us know in an extra comment. Please leave a separate comment for each of the bonus entries that you do or your comment will only count for one. The separate comments help us to stay organized & makes choosing a winner so much easier! If you have any questions please feel free to email me!

Spotlight on QuietMind

2011-06-11T10:54:00.000-07:00

QuietMind is a wonderful shop featuring prayer beads, jewelry, and art, run by Brian Harrison who also maintains FoundAround, filled with vintage items and art & craft supplies, and BeadinAroundTheBlock, which has lots of bead and jewelry supplies.

Tell us how you first got started selling on Etsy? Have you been doing it long? Do you sell anywhere else, online or in person? I have been selling on Etsy for 3 years. I first focused on Beadin' then QuietMind and more recently have been adding inventory to FoundAround. My skull and skeleton line of jewelry is represented by Galleria de los Muertos in Phoenix, AZ and I belong to an Art/Vintage cooperative called Indie ArtHouse in Phoenix, AZ as well.

Wood Skull and Black Lapidolite Earrings
What are your favorite materials to work with? That is a hard one, I love working with so many different things that is why I make so many different things.

What got you interested in your craft? I have been creative all my life. Drawing, painting and making things has always been of interest to me.

Mixed Media Altered Art Work on 100 Year Old Window - Work in Progress
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? I am currently working on a line of mixed media/altered art pieces that fall under the theme of Ancestors. I'm using old objects, family pictures, large format negatives and what ever else gets in my way.

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? I garden and have a pond. I also have 3 pet birds a Sun Conure named Radiance, a Jandee Conure named Buddy and a lovebird named Little Bird.

8 inch Strand of 12mm Lapis Blue Sodilite Coin Beads
Does your queer identity come into play in your work? I never given that any thought. I am who I am, open and out in every aspect of my life.

Is there any advice you have for our readers? Keep at it, things go well and poorly at times just keep at it.

Vintage Remberance Calvalier Wind Master Lighter

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2011-05-03T10:17:00.001-07:00

Here we are in a new month! The merry, merry month of May! Our team members have busily worked all throughout April to come up with some new pieces to meet our challenge: How Does Your Garden Grow? And, oh, how colorful our gardens grow!

In bursts of luscious purple!

Anemone Print
by Greenman Designs
With leering green skulls and pale purple tulips...

Purple tulip skull earrings
by Arena Creative
With purple peonies all in a row!

Original Fabric Purple Peony half yard
by Feathered Nest Studio
With Lonely Hearts & Shrinking Violets...

Handpainted Teapot - Lonely Hearts & Shrinking Violets
by Queen of Queens
With swirls of vibrant rainbow!

Rainbow storm swirled tie dye colors lampwork glass focal bead
by Crowbirdie Beads
And with waiting faeries...

The flower faerie - Original Painting
by Catbird Craft
Be sure to check out the treasury filled with more garden goodies from our creative team!

Spotlight on KnittiGritti

2011-05-02T13:46:00.001-07:00

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop? Hand knit accessories (scarves,hats, belts, etc), many of which are guaranteed to be one-of-a-kind

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else? 1) I actually discovered Etsy through the Queer Team! Do you guys remember the article that Curve Magazine did about a year ago, where some of you were interviewed - I thought it was awesome, and found Etsy.com and YOU because of it!!! 2) I've been selling for almost a year now - I began last summer, just knitting on my own, but then my co-workers liked my designs so much, they began placing orders left and right, and I moved to Etsy for more visibility (and have met some great people along the way!). 3) I still get face to face orders, but always direct them to make their payments thru Etsy - to keep things organized for me.

BABY DIVA SET - Super Snuggly and Stylish Infant to Toddler Sized Cashmere Wool Hat and Scarf Set
What are your favorite materials to work with? I love all sorts of different materials/textures - but my fave is when I have the opportunity to incorporate woven fabric into my knits - it always gives an edgier Knitti -er Gritti -er look (lol)

What got you interested in your craft? I come from a very creative family and have always loved clothing, accessories, and putting my own spin on things - I just wonder what it will evolve into next!

POM POM DAIQUIRI - Shimmery Summer Wrap
Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? Everything I do ends up i my Etsy shop :)

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? Running around after my 3 kids, my lovely lady, and our 2 dogs. Plus I work full time in the banking field.

KISS ME, I'M IRISH - Glistening Green Rainbows Extra Long Medium Weight Spring Scarf
Does your queer identity come into play in your work? Hmm.. thats an interesting question. I wouldn't say in any OBVIOUS way - While anyone who knows me or reads my profile is made accessible to the fact that I am a Knitting Lesbian (lol) I don't have any rainbow patches on the brim of my hat or the trim of my scarves *wink* Maybe if we wanted to fit a stereotype, we could say that the bright "flamboyant* colors I use are a dead giveaway - but I think that would be kinda silly....

The ROXIE Over-Sized Hat: Refurbish Your Favorite Old Clothes
Is there any advice you have for our readers? Do what you love, take risks, and ENJOY YOURSELF!

You can also find KnittiGritti on facebook!

Diamonds & Raindrops Challenge

2011-04-11T19:52:00.000-07:00

Our challenge for the month of March was Diamonds & Raindrops, and it was a tough one; we only had *2* participants, but they did an awesome job!

The first one to post her entry was That1Girl with her lovely lightweight earrings beaded with diamond-like drops of rain...

Earrings 1.2

And then we have a gorgeous necklace by BuniqueBeads inspired by one of my favorite movies, Labyrinth...

It's Only Forever

Give a big congrats to these two for rising to the challenge and then don't forget to visit our Diamonds & Raindrops Treasury; maybe one of your pieces made it in!

Spring Challenge Entries!

2011-03-03T10:50:00.001-08:00

Here in Central NY, the piles & piles of snow are slowly shrinking, and you can actually see the ground in some places! Many of us in the Queer Etsy Street Team are eager for warmer weather with green grass and lots of sun. Therefore we selected a theme to reflect those desires: SPRING! The theme was so inspiring we had multiple entries from several people! And I loveloveLOVE all these entries!

Macrame Parasol with Floral
by magnumrx

Silver Sunflower Earrings
by Sbdesign

Silver Chickadee Necklace
by Sbdesign

ACEO - Cherry Blossom Moon
by jerise

Little Flower Shaped Bowl
by mnjohn

Spring is Green Latticino Lampwork Glass Bird Bead Chain Necklace
by CrowbirdieBeads

Maiden Moon Spring Goddess
by altarspace

Easter Scene Incense Burner
by HempHelpers

Glowing Pastel Peace Incense Burner
by HempHelpers

Knitted silver rain earrings
by biggreenbeacon

Spring Fling vintage brooch necklace
by prettydebonair

Purple Pansy Love vintage brooch necklace
by prettydebonair

Gilded Lily vintage beaded necklace
by prettydebonair

Lilacs, Ivy, and Pearls Brooch
by BunnyKissd

Spring Purple and Rainbow Slouchy Hipster Hat
by laprincessa

And don't forget to visit the treasury too!

The QuEST for Spring!

Spotlight on Dark Heart Designs

2011-02-18T07:45:00.001-08:00

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop? Eye shadows, lip glosses, gift cards, gift sets

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else? My friend told me I should open a shop for my makeup. I've been selling a little over a year, on Etsy & locally.

What are your favorite materials to work with? Mica! I love making glosses too but they're so messy.

DHD Gift Set
What got you interested in your craft? I used to see all these incredibly pretty eye shadows online but they were so expensive. Once I figured out how to make them (I didn't know you could & I was overjoyed when I found out), and make them cheaper, I knew what I wanted to do.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop? I always have something creative going on. I work full time with my father & we manufacture tents, ride tops, and flags at his shop in South Georgia. I do a lot of designs and patterns with him.

Vampire Heart Loose Mineral Eyeshadow
Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time? I don't have net connection at home right now, so I spend a lot of my breaks at work saving web pages from Modish, Smallerbox, Handmadeology, Blacksburg Belle, & tons of other resources on blogging, creating, selling online, etc. There's so much you can learn from other people online and I don't want to miss all the good tips and ideas.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work? Hmm..this is a hard one. Let me see if I can hit the nail on the head. I think it's helped me to open my eyes to different people and how I can help them, even in some tiny way.

Dark Heart Designs
Is there any advice you have for our readers? Never give up, use criticism to grow, and never let other people make you feel differently about yourself.

Black & White Challenge Entries!

2011-01-30T12:49:00.001-08:00

In the hubbub of the holiday season, we opted to take an extra month with the December Challenge of Black & White, and it was well worth the wait! Check out these awesome entries:

Hen and Chicks Lampwork Glass Chicken bead set for the discerning bird lover
by CrowbirdieBeads

Up-Cycled Scrapbooking Button earrings
by TheCutestDamnBowShop

Seeing Snow
by TheCutestDamnBowShop

Black and White Earring Set of 2 pairs
by arenacreative

Beatles Abbey Road Collage Print
by brokenwingscreations

Intertextual newsprint/wood/agate necklace
by prettydebonair

Oops black and white original illustration
by featheredneststudio

Skullduggary white candle holder plastercraft
by catbirdcraft

Peace Sign and Paisley - Original Painting 10x8 - Free Shipping
by HempHelpers

Trees in Black and White - Queer Team Challenge Piece - papercut bookmark
by jerise

Kawaii Toasted Marshmallow Earrings
by BunnyKissd

Don't forget to check out the Team Challenge Treasury too, which includes a few additional pieces from our team members!

Managing Time

2011-01-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

So, how does a crafter, who sells and works from home, manage her/his time? There’s ALWAYS something to be done…designing, creating, packaging, mailing and marketing…so, how does one manage it all without going crazy?

Here are a few tips and pointers from a seasoned time manager. These should help you stay sane, stay organized and have a little more “me” time.

1) First and foremost, keep your work area organized. There’s nothing more frustrating and time consuming then trying to find something and not being able to due to disorganization. It’s worth it to take the time to get yourself organized for future time savings. Utilizing shelves, craft drawers, etc. and labeling them will help shave time in the future. Check out freecycle.org to or your local thrift shop for great deals or even free items to help you with this project. This also includes organizing your packaging for shipping.

2) Carry a notebook with you everywhere you go to take notes. I use a school composition book. It has a hardbound cover; it’s not spiral or 3-ring bound – I personally am not a fan of curled pages and won’t use the book through the end if they do. IN this book I keep separate pages for:

a. New ideas

b. Supplies to purchase

c. Priority list – things to do – I keep my book open to this page every day.

d. And then I keep a grocery list going too (but, that’s just me)

3) Hang a large-spaced calendar in a well-traveled area to mark deadlines. Deadlines for shows, for sales, for custom requests, etc. And most importantly, make a point to look at it daily.

4) Keep a 3-ring binder of all printed patterns or designs. Many of us type up or print out patterns to use for a specific project. Rather than throwing them away after the project is over, keep them in a 3-ring binder for future use. Even better, you’ll have your own personal notes for the next time!

5) Keep a folder on your computer for everything related to your craft. Here’s how I have things organized:

a. Main folder – I called mine Crafts

b. Sub-folder 1 – Merchandise – this includes already doctored photos and descriptions of each item, I have an individual folder for each item. As I upload them and they go live I then place each completed item folder into a sub-sub folder called Uploaded. This way, when I’m working on uploading and get interrupted I know what’s left to do.

c. Sub-folder 2 – Branding – this contains folders for business card designs, hang tags, banner ads, festival signage, gift certificate designs, product price lists, etc.

d. Sub-folder 3 – Invoices and shipping labels

e. Sub-folder 4 – Festival Paperwork

f. Sub-folder 5 –Photos of work – it contains various photos of my work, both at festivals (festival booths) and photos folks have sent me wearing or using my products. This folder is basically for any photos that I won’t use to upload with a description. This is also where my raw, untouched photos of items go before they get sized and color-corrected for uploading. Once I work on the photo it then goes in it’s own folder in the Merchandise folder.

g. Sub-folder 6 - Blog Entries – each document labeled according to which blog and topic.

6) Keep completed projects organized in a separate location. I have small clear plastic tubs where I sort everything according to type of product. I then place several of these in larger clear plastic tubs for storage until needed.

7) Keep multiple small-project bags for separate projects. If your work is transportable (like mine), and you’re an A-personality like me, you can utilize lots of down time by taking work with you for places like a doctor’s office waiting room, in line at the DMV, on road trips etc. I pre-plan projects and have made up 10-12 project bags in which I keep only the tools and materials needed for each project. When I leave to go on errands or trips I then grab the top priority project and work on it on the road or during down time.

8) And lastly, don’t be afraid to throw things away. Keeping something for a rainy day may be a good idea at the time, but if your collection becomes unmanageable then you’ve become a hoarder (and none of us want that, now do we?). If it doesn’t fit in to your overall plan then it may not be something keepable. Keep in mind how much space you have for your craft and don’t go over your boundaries (I struggle with this one regularly, so don’t feel bad!).

9) Oh and one final thing – have fun!

Many people call me over-organized or OCD (I come by it honestly, my mom is 10x worse) but to me, it’s super important to utilize what time I have available as efficiently as possible. These are some of the main things I do to keep myself on track and on schedule. I hope they help you take back time for yourself to either relax or, if you’re like me, get more things done!

Lisa

http://www.etsy.com/shop/laprincessa
http://www.facebook.com/bunnybeardesigns

http://lesgirly.livejournal.com/

November Challenge Entries!

2010-12-20T10:27:00.001-08:00

Whew! These almost got lost in the mad holiday rush that took over our crazed minds at Thanksgiving! But nevertheless, here they are in all their colorful glory!

The theme of the challenge was RAINBOW, wrapping up our headlong jump into the "Challenge" waters.

And our first entry reflects the watery side of the rainbow:

Six Stone Bangle in Sterling Silver - Peridot, Amethyst, Blue Onyx
by BowersStudio
Next we have a shiny crystal bracelet displaying all the colors of our pride:

Rainbow Bright
by CrystalGypsy
Then see your pride everywhere with these rainbow jeweled glasses:

Don't Hide your Pride
by TheCutestDamnBowShop
Rainbow jade sets off the honey jade and bronze in this lovely necklace:

Gemstone Necklace in Jade and Bronze. Seasons Change Meditation Beads.
by Gilliauna
The juicy rainbow colors of this original watercolor reflect the spirit within us all:

The Colored Man
by GreenManDesigns
Then it's time to let your pride show with this fabulous watch:

Rainbow watch
by ChelsDesigns
Then stick a rainbow swirl anywhere with these swirled hemp magnets:

Two Rainbow Hemp Magnet Set
by MikesHempBracelets

And finally my own late entry:

Bunny on a Rainbow Dream Bookmark
by BunnyKissd

Last Call for Holiday Gifts!

2010-12-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

Come and see all the holiday goodies our team has to offer! Perfect for gift giving or keeping for yourself!

Sale!

2010-12-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

Feathered Nest Studio is having a special for Queer Etsy Street Team supporters! Just enter coupon code "QueerTeam15" at checkout and save 15% off anything in the shop until January 1st! Just posted new otter and robin Stuffies; more to come!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/featheredneststudio

Featured!

2010-11-26T18:04:00.000-08:00

The Queer Team has been featured online twice recently! Click the links and learn more about us!

First up, a piece about what it means to grow up different, how difficult it can be at times...and how art and creativity have helped.
http://www.etsy.com/storque/craftivism/dare-to-be-different-finding-courage-in-community-and-creati-11111/#comment-407276

Next up, stop on by
http://www.handmadespark.com/blog/holiday-gift-guide-featuring-the-queer-etsy-team
for some great holidaze shopping ideas!

2010-11-23T18:59:00.001-08:00

The Queer Team Shop will be offering a special coupon code for Queer Team Facebook fans this weekend! Good for a special discount Nov. 26th-Nov.29th only! Take advantage of our free shipping and help us raise loot for the Trevor Project!

Every cent we make, we donate! ♥

Deep Purple Queer Team Dreams

2010-11-09T22:26:00.000-08:00

In our final installment of our monthly colors of the rainbow challenge, the Queer team delves deep into hues of vibrant violet where we reveal the stuff of dreams...

Wishing upon a star has never been easier than with this juicy purple hemp necklace by Hemp Helpers featuring a lovely shooting star pendant in metal and glass.

Sometimes slumber can be a little spooky, so let the spirits know you're onto their game with this sweet ornament by Faerie Garden Fancies.

If every monster in the closet was as cute as this creepy cupcake magnet by SB Design we'd all want to keep a surplus around for midnight snacking.

A truly inspiring dream can help us realize our true potential for becoming who we are. This ethereal hand painted card by Emma's Destiny will remind someone you love to always be true to that ideal.

This lovely Washi Paper pendant by Paper Demon Jewelry evokes the rhythms of a calming mandala both with it's translucence and it's figure eight frame. A perfect accoutrement for any dream-like or meditative state.

Keep your potions handy in this gorgeous Amethyst pendant by Galleria Di Giani. Perfect for awakening a beautiful dreamer or soothing the savage beast back to sleep.

You're guaranteed to create even more magic while wearing these fantastic amethyst and silver earrings by Bowers Studio. Sophisticated yet playful and the perfect accessory for any ensemble, day or night.

Dreams often lead us in the right direction. This beautiful wooden puzzle piece by Ramshackle Studio is a profound reminder of which path to take in the waking world.

This adorable bookmark by Feathered Nest Studio will certainly assure you peaceful dreams when seeing it placed on the pages of your book before bed.

The flash of a fish swimming in the sea can seem as if we've just seen a waking dream. Crow Birdie Beads stunning glass sparkle fish makes that dream come true.

And finally, for more rollicking fun when the sandman comes, this chic and urban necklace by Les Garcons Flamands says it all either figuratively or literally, depending upon your mood.

The Queer Team hopes our challenge has filled your head with sugar plum dreams and purple passion. Tune in next time when we wrap up our multi-hued theme with all the colors of the RAINBOW.

You Just Need To.

2010-10-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

By John Tozzi of Galleria di Giani

October 11 is National Coming Out Day. This year, it feels like there will be a shadow over the day, due to all the recent tragic suicides that have befallen our community.

Taylor Clementi

Asher Brown

Seth Walsh

Justin Aaberg

Raymond Chase

Billy Lucas

You will all be missed.

I am a 45 year old gay man. For those of you not versed enough to do the math and understand, I came out at 22, in the mid 1980’s, when the world was first gripped by the AIDS scare. It was not an easy time to come out. Just hearing the word “gay” made people recoil, afraid they would catch something. It was not an easy time for me. But then again, my teens were no picnic either, for so many reasons.

I was bullied for being smart.
I was bullied for wearing glasses.
I was bullied for being fat.
I was bullied because I was not particularly good at most sports.
I was bullied because I hung out with girls at school most of the time.

Yeah, I had it pretty bad.

I would get pushed against the lockers. I would have my books knocked out of my hands and kicked down the hall. I would have things taken from me while the bullies played “keep away”.

I endured taunts of “four eyes!”, and “fatty fatty two by four, can’t fit through the classroom door” and “sissy” and “brainiac” and “poindexter”. Thankfully, since Glee wasn’t on back then, I never had to endure the slurpee in the face.

It was probably the only taunt I was ever spared.

Because it is important to me to reach out to each and every one of you today, I am going to do something I never in my life thought I would do. I am going to tell you something I have kept secret for over 30 years. I have never shared this story with anyone at all, ever, but I am about to share it with you today. That is how important this topic is to me.

When I was in junior high, because I was fat, I had those breasts that fat kids get. Since it was junior high school, most of the girls hadn’t got theirs yet, but there were mine, plain as day. There was one guy, named Jo Jo, who used to grab them whenever he saw me in the hallway. Oh yes, as if all the verbal taunts and teases and physical abuse weren’t enough, I also had to endure sexual harassment as well.

As you can tell, my teenage years were kinda sucky.

And to those of you wondering, yes, I did contemplate suicide. I had two very long, difficult nights a couple of years apart, where those thoughts consumed me.

Thankfully, I didn’t go through with it either time.

I am not telling you this to make you feel bad for me, or to pity me, or to win some “my teen years were worse than yours” contest. I am telling you all of this for the best possible reason.

I am now a 45 year old man.

I survived it all.

I survive it still.

Yes, it is obviously still all a part of who I am. But it is not the biggest part of who I am. It is in me, but it does not consume me. Yes, I still live with it, but I still live.

I have a happy life, finally. It took me a while. I had to make some difficult choices in my life, but I did it. I moved away from a backwards thinking town and never went back. I fled to a better place, to a more accepting place. Here, I can be free to be open, to be honest, to be exactly who I am, and to feel the love of good friends, and a good partner. And I don’t have to apologize for it, fear it, or hide it.

I deserve these things.

You know what, so do you.

When I was a teen, gays had virtually no rights at all. We could be fired, we could be denied services. Just twenty years later, we can legally marry in several states. We are getting closer to being able to open serve in the military. Many cities, counties and states have us as a protected class in their equal opportunity laws.

Take it from one who knows, the fear, the self loathing, the abuse, yes, it all feels bad. But it is nowhere near as strong as the power you feel when you can hold someone you love in your arms, and hear them tell you they love you. It will happen. You just need to stay around to see it.

Someday, the whole country will allow us to legally marry. It is coming. You just need to stay around to see it.

Someday soon, we will be able to openly serve in the military. You just need to stay around to see it.

And, most importantly, twenty years from now, it will be YOUR turn to pass on your survival stories to the next generation, so that they can know. You just need to stay around to do it.

You just need to stay around.

You just need to.

John Tozzi is a fine art photographer and jewelry designer.
Please visit his website at:
http://www.johntozzi.com
You may also visit his etsy shop at:
http://www.galleriadigiani.etsy.com

No More Blue Mondays!

2010-10-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

The Queer Team Rainbow challenge is drawing nigh to the last hues in the spectrum. The notion that our colorful cavalcade is coming to a close has given us all a bad case of the blues and we thought we'd share them with you...

This elegant floral eyeglasses holder by Bits 'n Beads by Gilliauna will ensure you never misplace your specs again, lest it's lovely hibiscus blooms leave your sight.

While your vision is clear, make sure to send someone you love an adorable, printable pdf postcard by Feathered Nest Studio, as one team member quipped, "They'll have you at Hello". ;)

After all that writing let the world know you need a cookie break with Faerie Garden Fancies outrageously cute Cookie Monster ring.

Everyone knows that nothing goes better with cookies than a perfectly brewed tea. Make yours in this whimsical hand painted tea pot with Sea Dragon motif by QueenofQueens.

Keep your quill handy in something befitting the beauty of your prose. This gorgeous pencil case by Fiberista Nora fits the bill swimmingly.

Galleria di Giani's stunning Lapis and Biwa pearl necklace is a showstopper sure to entrance anyone whose eye it catches.

These glittery note cards by Emma's Destiny set a sweet, contemporary tone for any thank you or invitation.

Intricate knotwork frames a spectacular flower in Hemp Helpers naturally appealing Blue Hemp Necklace.

Stars will certainly sparkle in your eyes when they fall upon this magical Shattuckite pendant made by Bowers Studio.

You're certain to bid Blue Mondays adieu while wearing this incredible wooden bangle by Ramshackle Studio, the beauty of which resembles earth from a cosmic vantage point.

If the peaceful hues of sky and sea have sparked your generosity, Paper Demon Jewelry's
incredibly alluring Chiyogami Necklace comes in a matching tin for gifting.

That brings us to the end of out beautiful blue challenge, be sure to stop by next month when we interpret all things purple for your pleasure.

2010-09-02T23:07:00.000-07:00

The Queer Team Knows "It's Not Easy Being Green", but our talented members were definitely up for interpreting this verdant hue for this month's installment of the Rainbow Themed Team Challenge.

What better way to start things off than with our own amphibious homage to the words that Kermit the Frog once sang in the above mentioned classic? CrowBirdieBeads brings us a trio of tiny glass toads who's lovely shade of swamp grass would make even Kermit green with envy.

When you're romp through the swamp has ended, you may feel inclined to wander while wearing this lovely "Tuscany in Autumn" eyeglasses holder crafted by Gilliauna,"reminiscent of olive picking in Tuscany".

If you find yourself craving the salty snack, help yourself to this adorable bookmark made by BunnyKissd. "Use this fruity, tongue in cheek bookmark to mark your place in your next read, or send that special someone a pun-ish(ing) reminder of your unique love."

Or you may prefer to adorn your ears with these graceful earrings made by Paper Demon Jewelry paying homage to windswept trees.
These "three dimensional brass leaves sway against a subtle background of olive green washi paper."

Ramshackle Studio presents us with a uniquely beautiful interpretation of the wild wood with this "handmade, one of a kind, wood pendant [which] features a piece of tumbled Tiger's Eye and brass accents inset into Lignum Vitae".

The classic design of this Kambaba jasper, onyx and sterling silver necklace made by Galleria Di Giani, will transport you from the sun-kissed orchards of Tuscany to cool, deep green forests far in the hill. Versatile enough to pair with varied looks, this piece will prove when worn that "you are someone to be reckoned with."

Reinforce your bold fashion statement with these glamorous Crystazzi Tormaline and Silver Chandelier Earrings by Elle's Beads, "perfect for a night out, semi-formal wear, and formal wear."

Enjoy complete immersion in nature's peaceful hues with this gorgeous Good Luck Green Aventurine Stretch Bracelet by Mike's Hemps Bracelets.

What better way to tote all your emerald treasures than in this chic Green Plaid Hip Zip bag by fiberista nora? This durable bag has "two fully lined pockets and is large enough to carry all your basic necessities."

Make sure to give hearty thanks to Mother Nature for your bountiful beryl-toned booty! This gorgeous Lady of the Green Statue by Greenman Designs is sure to recall nature's hues with much happiness, regardless of where she resides.

Be sure to visit our gorgeous green etsy treasury and stay tuned for next month's BLUE bonanza!

Team Challenge | Yellow!

2010-08-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

As this month's installment of the "Colors of the Rainbow" series of our monthly team challenges, the Queer Team joined forces to create yet another stunning collection of handmade goodies; this time in yellow!

First up, we have this super funky Yellow Geometric Adjustable Beaded Ring from ellesbeads. Made with yellow cylindrical Czech glass beads which are individually attached to the loop with silver-plated headpins, this ring is then finished off with white craft wire around the base to keep the beads in place. Cute and adjustable, this ring is a great complement to your casual outfit.

ellesbeads.etsy.com

RamshackleStudio graces us with this striking Handmade, Carved, Wood Pendant (Round and Round). Measuring approximately 2 1/2" x 1 1/2 " x 3/4", this pendant is handcarved and then sanded, oiled, dried, sanded again, buffed, and waxed to a glorious finish. Prepare to be amazed at the quality and character of this piece.

MikesHempBracelets offers us this beautiful Lemon Drop Aragonite Stone Stretch Bracelet. Measuring approximately six inches in length, this bracelet is crafted out of Aragonite stones which are said to boost self-confidence and energy. This is a great accessory to brighten up your day!

Lemon Drop Aragonite Stone Stretch Bracelet

From Gilliauna we have a Bumble Bee Yellow Eyeglass Chain. This gorgeous (yet functional) eyeglass chain is made from sunny yellow and white polkadot beads combined on a black shimmering cord of seed beads with silver plated accents. Show off your sense of style while keeping your eyeglasses easily in reach with this decorative time-saver.

Gilliauna.etsy.com

This Set of 3 Blank Nature Note Cards by BunnyKissd features candid shots of a goldfinch, a wild rose and a feather. Featuring the breathtaking original photography of Diana "BunnyKissd" Bukowski, these handmade blank note cards measure approximately 4 1/4" x 5 5/8" and are signed and dated on the back with a matching envelope.

BunnyKissd.etsy.com

GalleriaDiGiani certainly knows how to add a little sunshine to your day, so he's cooked up this fun Black Eyed Susan Glass Bead Necklace and Earrings Set. Made using large (14mm) glass beads, this set is big and bright and will definitely be noticed. The necklace measures approximately 18 inches and the earrings are about 1 inch from top of beads to bottom of beads.


GalleriaDiGiani.etsy.com

Speaking of sunshine, featheredneststudio definitely beckons the rays with this bright and cheery set of You are My Sunshine pack of two greeting cards. A part of featheredneststudio's newest line of cards called "be happy, be yourself", this two-pack is the perfect way to let someone know they are the reason you smile. Each card is a high quality print of an original illustration and arrives in archival packaging to keep them looking pretty.

featheredneststudio.etsy.com

For a simplistic look that goes great with any outfit, check out this Yellow Hemp Clip Necklace with Shell and Wood Beads by HempHelpers. This alternating necklace is made out of yellow hemp, natural hemp, white shell beads and brown wooden beads. Measuring nineteen inches in length and secured with an alligator clip, this necklace is sure to help you embrace your inner hippie.

HempHelpers.etsy.com

Here we have this gorgeous piece from PaperDemonJewelry who's unique treasures are so hot right now that her submission SOLD at market while this post was being composed. Click here to check out the PaperDemonJewelry shop for items still available for sale.

PaperDemonJewelry.etsy.com

Treat yourself to the scent of the tropics with these Pineapple Coconut Sugar Scrub Cubes by HeathensHearth. 100% paraben and pthalate free, this soap/scrub cleanses, exfoliates and moisturizes.

2010-07-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

The Queer Etsy Street team has been featured in Curve Magazine's 20th anniversary issue! There's a great section in the mag about eco-queers and several team members are in an article about the Queer Craft movement called "Crafty Queers"! A sweet read for a Summer afternoon. The Article starts on Page 34.

http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=39981

Team Challenge: Orange!!

2010-07-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

Continuing with our new team activity, monthly design challenges, we are proud to present June's theme: the color Orange!

First up is this bright Orange Glass Seed Bead Wrap Around Bracelet, submitted by ellesbeads. An accessory like this one is sure to liven up any summer outfit.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50297745/orange-glass-seed-bead-wrap-around

EnlightenedArtisan looks into the eye of a flame-orange sunflower in this Sun and Moon in a Sunflower Handpainted Stone.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50708598/sun-and-moon-in-a-sunflower-handpainted

GalleriaDiGiani has created a beautiful and versatile Orange and White Agate with Carnelian Necklace and Earring Set. According to Giani, the wonderful shades in these stones bring to mind orange creamsicles, and have a "fun, flirty and sassy" appeal to them.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50482640/orange-and-white-agate-with-carnelian

Make a bold yet beautiful statement at work with Gilliauna's Beaded Badge Lanyard - Orange Crush. Oranges, golds and black come together in this lovely accessory.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50429314/beaded-badge-lanyard-orange-crush

Make your hair happy by wearing this lovely Orange Hemp Headband by HempHelpers.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50476859/orange-hemp-headband

You can complete your hemp ensemble with MikesHempBracelets' White Hemp Bracelet with Orange Beads.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50479844/white-hemp-bracelet-with-orange-beads

Paper and wire come together beautifully in this YuzuCocktail Washi Paper and Wire Circles Necklace.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50228686/yuzucocktail-washi-paper-and-wire

From RamshackleStudio we see the deeper, darker side of orange in this Handmade Wood Pendant with Metal Accents (Silver Moon).

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50531644/handmade-wood-pendant-with-metal-accents

You can have your oranges and wear them too with Sbdesign's Bowl of Gold - Orange Pendant.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50565348/bowl-of-gold-orange-pendant

"Summerize" your seating with these Pillows - Orange and White Floral - Set of 2 - 16-inch by ThomasSaylorDesigns.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50472090/pillows-set-of-2-orange-and-white-floral

Once you put on Bunnykissd's Afro Disco Chick Necklace you're sure to be ready to hit the town and boogie down!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49991294/afro-disco-chick-necklace

The Men of Etsy Street Team Gets a Storque Article

2010-06-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Better late than never, here's a link to a great Father's Day article in the Storque written by Queer Etsy Street Team member GalleriaDiGiani. Along with being an active member of our team, Giani is also the leader of the Men of Etsy team.

The article, entitled "Fathers and Sons: The Men of Etsy Team Shares Inspiration" , includes several stories relating to fathers, grandfathers, and sons as told to Giani by team members.

Bravo, Giani, for a very well-written and touching article!

First Ever Etsy Pride Article!

2010-06-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Team leader QueenofQueens has penned the first ever official Gay Pride Article on etsy's Storque blog. The article features gorgeous work and relevant thoughts from many Queer Esty Street Team members! Take a peek and happy pride month!

The Queer Team Gets a Link in a Great Storque Article

2010-06-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

Acclaimed Wicked author Gregory Maguire who, with his husband, is the father of three beautiful adopted children, was interviewed for a Storque article about Father's Day. His story, which emphasizes the importance of letting those in your life know how much they mean to you, is touching and well worth taking the time to read.

http://www.etsy.com/storque/handmade-life/fathers-day-with-gregory-maguire-author-of-wicked-8853/

The bonus for us is that, at the bottom of the piece, there is a link to join the Queer Etsy Team! Along with the article that queenofqueens is writing and the one that GalleriaDiGiani has written (and is anxiously awaiting publication of!), this should bring our team lots of positive attention.

Big queer thanks to Etsy blog writer Julie for including us in her article!

Spotlight on Queer Team Member HempHelpers!

2010-06-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

HempHelpers interviewed by enlightenedartisan

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

Typical hippie gear. All my jewelry and accessories are made with hemp. I have necklaces, branklets (my own category, just referring to items that can be worn as bracelets or anklets), head bands, belts, key chains, and clipcritters (little pals made with beads and hemp that have alligator clips). Nearly all these items also have alligator clips, for both strong secure clasp, and for those that partake, an easy way to prevent burned fingers and lips ;)I also offer art, stash jars, and tie dye clothing.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

I heard about it from a friend, and immediately jumped on the band wagon. I started crafting in January of 09, and went to Rothbury that summer to sell my wares out of baskets. Shortly after that I heard about etsy, which is the only place I was selling for a while. I am now currently in a few headshops and art stores around Michigan. I’m getting close to my one year anniversary of my shop opening!!

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

It varies, sometimes I pick out the center bead or focal point and work around it, or I’ll pick out the hemp colors and figure out which bead goes best with it. From there I take in account my desired client, male/female/unisex, type of knot to use, and overall size of the piece. I work in a social atmosphere; good company helps you produce good products! It helps you be more at ease and relaxed, and not takes mistakes as seriously. Nothing in the world is perfect, and imperfections just make each piece more unique. This goes for my other crafts too, not just the hemp crafting. Being social and feeding off other people’s good vibes really inspires me.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Hemp is my number one favorite. I use it exclusively for all my jewelry and accessories. In addition to that, I love to tie dye, paint, and draw. I will be learning how to work glass and make clothing in the near future too.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of yourwork in your etsy shop?

I will be starting to try my hand at glass working. Lampworking and glass blowing, once I get it down pat you’ll be sure to see my work in my shop!

Besides art/crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

Hmm, tough question. My spare time is when I do all my crafty stuff. But now that it’s summer time, I plan to spend the warm days with friends, music, and peace.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

Sometimes it does. Mostly my hippie identity rules the grounds, but I think that was spurred by my queeritude. I learned respect and understanding of different ways of life from being gay, and I use that for motivation when I work. But I have made quite a few rainbow pieces intentionally because I was gay.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I love the feeling of belonging with people. And how the slightest similarity in people can bring all types of different backgrounds together. I love the welcoming atmosphere the queer team has. I hope to become a productive member of the team, providing input and having fun. I think its great what the team does and I am proud to start being a part of it.

Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC

2010-06-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself in New York City this Sunday afternoon, you might like to check out the Illegal Wedding Fair being held to benefit Marriage Equality NY. Advance tickets are being offered, but a limited number will also be available at the door. Please see the website here for info:
http://http//www.illegalweddingfair.com/IWF/IWF___home.html

Cocktails, hors d'oevres, wedding cake and champagne will be offered, and numerous speakers and vendors will be present. Beccijo, of The Enchanted Cupboard (http://www.etsy.com/shop/theenchantedcupboard), will also be there with her wooden cake toppers, and has created this etsy treasury to promote the fair:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfc802f354f6d91f5c04b87/illegal-wedding-fair-nyc

If you can't make it to the fair, please visit Beccijo's treasury and show it some love. Happy weekend, everyone. Marriage equality for all!

Team Challenge: RED!

2010-05-31T17:08:00.000-07:00

We've started a new tradition in the Queer Etsy Street Team...a monthly challenge (credit Judah of greenmandesigns for the wonderful idea)! Each month we will, as a team, decide upon a theme for the challenge, and any team members who would like to participate will create and list an item in their Etsy shop incorporating that theme.

To help get us into the swing of things, we've decided to use the colors of the rainbow flag for our first six challenges. Without further ado, then, on with the Red Challenge!

bowersstudio has offered us this beautiful Red Heart Pendant Brecciated Jasper in Sterling Silver: "A special heart for that one true love." Be sure to read the wonderful story of the miner and his beautiful love when you check out this lovely piece.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47858038/red-heart-pendant-brecciated-jasper-in

From BunnyKissd we have a Red Hot Bracelet done in hemp the color of pale fire. Bunny has added a red, orange and yellow swirl bead to really make this fun bracelet pop!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48398617/red-hot-bracelet

This little Bright Red Grinning Alien Lampwork Glass Bead from CrowbirdieBeads has just landed in our challenge from some distant planet, and he obviously had a very fun trip! According to Crowbirdie, he's very friendly and just needs a hug!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48270623/bright-red-grinning-alien-lampwork-glass

ellesbeads obviously knows that ladybugs bring good luck, so she's sent us a pair of bright and lively Red Wood and Crystal Ladybug Earrings to help us all find good fortune.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47111723/red-wood-and-crystal-ladybug-earrings

What do ladybugs do in their spare time? Why, they garden, of course! EnlightenedArtisan's Handpainted Stone Ladybug Garden with Handmade Paper Flowers gives a glimpse into the secret, colorful world of ladybug horticulture.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48539245/ladybug-garden-handpainted-stones-and

GalleriaDiGiani artfully combines beautiful red and silver beads with a functional magnifying glass pendant to create this unique and useful Magnifying Glass Pendant with Carnelian necklace.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48372633/magnifying-glass-pendant-with-carnelian

With Gilliauna's Handmade Badge Lanyard - Raspberries and Cream you'll never lose your badge and you'll always be in beautiful style! Raspberry red beads and cream glass pearls are sure to make you a hit at the office.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48307842/handmade-badge-lanyard-raspberries-and

Totally unique and very classy is greenmandesigns Red Queen Ikon mixed media figure. Barbie (here, repurposed and upscaled) has never looked so hot! Plastered, papered, painted and dyed...have a look and she's sure to wow you like the Queen she is.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48273801/red-queen-ikon

MikesHempBracelets offers us the healing properties of carnelian beads surrounded by clean, natural hemp in this Hemp and Carnelian Combo bracelet and earring set.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48292402/hemp-and-carnelian-combo

"Left of Red" is where we find this gorgeous Handmade Wood Pendant with Aluminum Accents - Left of Red from RamshackleStudio. Bloodwood, Patagonian Rosewood, Aluminum and White Oak combine to make a stunning pendant strung on an adjustable leather cord.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48138776/handmade-wood-pendant-with-aluminum

Chilly ankles? Never, if you have RandeeAnne's fuzzy, warm Handknit Leg / Ankle / Arm Warmers in your wardrobe. In shades of pink, burgundy, gold, navy and forest green, they are sure to complement any outfit.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/43137730/handknit-leg-ankle-arm-warmers

Our Own Wildheather Was Featured In a Blog!

2010-05-20T06:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Queer Etsy Street Team is proud to announce that our very own jewelry artisan, Wildheather (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Wildheather) has been featured in the Painted Lady Fingers blog.

http://paintedladyfingers.blogspot.com/2010/05/conversation-with-wild-heather.html

In a wonderful interview, she discusses how nature inspires the pieces she creates, describes her jewelry-making process, and introduces us all to her animal companions, Cocoa, Pagan and Willie.

Please take a moment to visit the Painted Lady Fingers blog to read Wildheather's interview and see some adorable photos of her furry friends. Way to go, Heather!!

Spotlight on Queer Team member Sprightly Strands Boutique

2010-04-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

Sprightly Strands interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
Handmade hair accessories!

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
My signature "style" ALWAYS includes something big and funky in my hair, and I was always spending so much on hair accessories so one day I opted to start making them myself. Friends started asking me about buying them and once it dawned on me that I could start making a little cash from my craft. I've been selling regularly for about 2 months. The only places besides Etsy that I sell are in my apartment (always to friends who want to swing by and snag a few goodies), and I just did my first craft show on April 17th. It was such a huge success that I plan on attending many more!

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
Inspiration is key for me. The people in my life are such unique individuals and they are what inspire me. I grab materials every chance I get and channel that inspiration into creating my pieces.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Feathers (cruelty-free, of course), appliqués, and anything with skulls, texture, or sparkle! I've also been known to use random things that I find around my apartment to upcycle (old scrubs from a receptionist job I had, leftover material from chair cushions, etc.)

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
I'm a hardcore queer activist, and I find that my creativity is crucial to coming up with new ways to spread awareness, organize protests, and inspire others to take an active stance in queer politics.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
Activism, singing, playing guitar, getting tattoos, hanging out with my cats, and learning.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
Absolutely, particularly from an activist perspective. Almost all of my pieces are inspired by lovely queers in my life, and a percentage of each sale that I make goes to the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I just hope that the QEST can continue to be such a wonderful, supportive community. That's what brought me to it in the first place! :)

Spotlight on Queer Team member Jerise

2010-04-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

Jerise interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
I offer cards, artworks, pastel and pencil drawings of NYC scenes, wedding and birthday commemoratives and certificates (including ketubahs and Quaker wedding certificates), screenprints (on paper & tshirts/fabric), and design work of various kinds (banner creation, monograms, business card design, etc.). I'm a calligrapher, so a lot of my designs include lettering of one kind or another.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
I first heard of Etsy from friends in a printmaking class in the summer of 2008, and I set up a shop finally in November 2008. I've been selling my calligraphy for a bit longer than that: I guess I started about three years before, when I was living in WV. But before Etsy I had a lot of difficulty getting people to look at my work, even though I created my own website and tried to get traffic to it. I also sell occasionally in NYC streets and parks (like Union Square Park), and I've done a few area craft fairs as well.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
Well, it depends. I try to look and sketch from life as often as possible, every day, so most of my other work comes from that: I love wandering through my northern Manhattan neighborhood, Washington Heights, and seeing what I can see. When I design papercuts, it's usually a mix of my imagination and the layers and colors I've seen in one of my sketch subjects or a photograph (I also take a lot of digital photos to work from). For traditional papercuts, I work from older designs, but also introduce my own ideas. For calligraphy, I try to practice a bit every day, and when I have a long calligraphy piece to do, it takes me a while to imagine different layouts--I use my sketchbook again for this--and finally decide on one. Then I write out the text a number of times, using different sizes, different spacings, cutting it up & laying it out, etc., before I do the final piece.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Paper--all kinds! I love the beautiful Japanese printed and non-printed handmade kozo papers, and Indian khadi, and any type of nice drawing paper. I'm currently learning a lot about different types of handmade papers, and experimenting with them; having NY Central Art Supply in the same city makes this much easier. Oh, and nice inks and gouache! I love colors.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
Well, I teach, which can sometimes be a creative project! I often take classes at School of Visual Arts downtown, and have been learning about Japanese woodblock printing and screenprinting there. I've also led kids' arts days in the Bronx, and I'm working toward starting up an arts program in my neighborhood for kids and adults.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
Well, I love walking my 'hood, and reading, and playing with my cats. I also sing in a Yiddish chorus, and in the past I founded one (in WV). I love playing the guitar, and the piano when I can.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
No way it couldn't! But it's true that it's a little beneath the surface most of the time. In my ketubah/marriage pieces, I specialize in same sex couples' certificates, and I guess I make my statements in other pieces by quietly slipping in rainbows and lettering quotes that encourage open mindedness and respect generally. Sometimes I just have to put Sappho on a card, though. :)

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I was excited to find out about the Queer Etsy Street Team! I think I'd looked for an LGBT team a while back, & hadn't found one, so it was pure serendipity that led me to find out about it now. Hopes: well, to make some friends and help bring the LGBT community on Etsy to more prominence, help contribute to the team's success.

Cool giveaway from theenchantedcupboard!

2010-03-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

theenchantedcupboard is offering a free giveaway in support of the Queer Team!

The winner will receive their choice of an amazing wedding cake topper or family doll set, uniquely handmade by theenchantedcupboard. In order to enter, check out theenchantedcupboard's shop and leave a comment with contact information. You can also get an extra entry for tweeting, posting on facebook, and creating a blog post about the interview/giveaway. The giveaway will run until Friday April 30th, 2010.

VISIT theenchantedcupboard's shop to leave a comment!

Interview with Beccijo aka theenchantedcupboard

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
I started 2008 creating wooden toys and then moved into Cake Toppers. I started making these for my own children when all the information about the dangers of plastic worried me. It was hard but we got ride of all the plastic playsets they loved but I wanted them to still have the same enchanting fun. My toys were created out of a need for affordable natural toys. My toy lines such as The Fairy Ring, Mermaid Tales, Max in Space, and others were developed from my childhood memories or creations I made for my own children.

In 2009 I made my first set of Wedding Cake Toppers and then developed ones for birthday, etc.

When did you start selling on etsy? Can people buy your work anywhere else?
I started in the end of 2008 I was a buyer and then tried my hand at selling. I do wholesale to a local toy store and have a few other online shops but Etsy is my first love!

What inspired you to begin making wedding cake toppers?
These dolls started out with a request from someone my husband works with. At the time I hesitated because my only option was to make the female doll in a dress to look like a man with really wide leg pants. I started looking for someone who could make the male doll for me and the result was too rough. The rough male doll only proved itself to be good for pirates.

I was feeling defeated when all the stars in the heavens lined up and someone was offering them unfinished male doll on Etsy. I was on the phone calling all my supplies trying to find who was making these. At long last I had uncovered the secret and about a month later they were mine as well!

Do you consider yourself a LGBTQIQ supporter?
es, I have 2 gay brothers who have struggled with stepping out and being who they are. As a mother I work hard to make sure my children grow up to be excepting and respectful of others. In researching and making my Same-Sex Family Dolls as well as the Same-Sex Cake Toppers we got a chance to talk about how families can be different and how they are the same. It was great to see that they understood that it didn't matter the combination of the dolls just that there was love that connected them.

What are the future plans The Enchanted Cupboard?
I want to keep expanding my toy line and add more natural toys for boys. As my family grows so will my time to devote to my business but I most want to keep a health balance.

Queer Team Working with Trevor Project!

2010-03-27T13:22:00.000-07:00

Big news! Beginning today, the Queer Etsy Street Team will be donating 100% of sales from our shop (less etsy and Paypal fees) to the Trevor Project! The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ youth).
Please help spread the word!

Spotlight on Queer Team member BackseatBettyBoutik

2010-03-24T04:20:00.000-07:00

BackseatBettyBoutik interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
I currently offer Steampunk-inpired and handcrafted jewelry. There are a ton of things I'm learning and will be adding more variety in the near future, but *shhhh* it's a secret ;)

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
The instant I found Etsy, I became addicted. Etsy has seriously been unhealthy for me! So, of course, I decided to join. I'm a total newbie, so I'm still adjusting to everything. I'm also new at selling my jewelry so I have a lot to figure out.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
I'm thinking about creating pretty much 24/7. Every time I get a vision in my head during the day, or when I wake up at night, I write myself a little note. I frequently save pictures from other jewelry artists online which inspire me. When I'm ready to sit down and have time to make something, I pull from either my notes or visual inspiration. Depending on the materials I have on hand, I start with a specific idea in mind. Then it sort of evolves into its own monster from there.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
I love anything mixed media, which is why I love Steampunk so much. I'm having so much fun collecting watch parts and other random items. I really want to get into metal clay but my budget keeps telling me "you wish!"

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
I'm a freelance writer so I get to be creative with yummy words all the time. I write poetry and other random diatribes when I'm not immersed in school work and studying.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
dedicate a lot of my time to spreading the word about my side-project "Backseat Betty" (which is the mother identity to my Backseat Betty Boutik). Backseat Betty is my feminist identity/brand that I use to spread awareness and information about all feminist ideologies, including equality for everyone, ethnic & cultural studies, LGBTQ awareness, social constructionism, pop culture analysis, and sociology. Feminism is much more than discourse about women; for me it's a platform for re-thinking the world around us by resisting the patriarchal norm and implementing a more womyn-centered way of living in compassion.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
Since I identify as queer, it's impossible for my identity to not come into play. I create whatever speaks to me and whatever I like, which, in essence, is my identity. Does that mean that my work is geared specifically to queer peoples? Some items may be and others may not... I guess it just depends on the particular piece.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I love the idea of having a safe place for connection and networking with other queer-identified people on Etsy. Supporting each other is a great way to increase our visibility!

Call for Artists!

2010-02-24T22:46:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Mini Marzipan Productions are gearing up for some great shows. Be a part of the fun, all the details below!

*Now Taking Applications For Taste for Artisans - Handmade Ho Down Village!!*

From a few of the makers of Handmade Ho Down we introduce Mini Marzipan Productions, an exclusive craft show planning company. We have teamed up with East Bay Express to bring you a whole bale of BIG events already in the works for 2010, and we are now taking applications for the first one of the year!

East Bay Express and Mini Marzipan Presents
Taste for Artisans
April 3, 2010
5pm - 11pm
Jack London Square
98 Broadway Avenue, Oakland.
(Previously Barnes & Noble Books)

30,000 square feet of awesomeness!
Anticipated Attendees: 3-4k
Vendor Application Deadline: Friday, March 12th
Vendor Fee: $150.00

Please go to: www.minimarzipan.com to apply now!

Questions: vendors@minimarzipan.com

Taste for Artisans pays tribute to Americana but with a modern, urban twist.

We celebrate local craftsmanship with over 100 of the Bay Area's best artisans selling their handmade wares in the Handmade Ho Down Village, local farmers filling our plates, local breweries filling our glasses, live local bands/djs, and educational activities from the De Young Museum.

East Bay Express and Mini Marzipan have a reputation for throwing amazing parties, and
this will be no exception. Our idea of urban Americana includes cream corn
wrestling, mechanical bull riding, hay bales and picnic tables, pie eating
contests, square dancing competitions, live craft making, old school games,
and more!

Meet local artisans, musicians, and farmers while at the same time
supporting Drawbridge, a bay area local organization bringing art awareness
to children in need.
Come be a part of the Handmade Ho Down Village and get down at the Ho Down!

Spotlight on Queer Team member BUNNYKISSD

2010-02-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

BunnyKissd interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
Mostly polymer clay pins & pendants, although I have started to move into offering more painted objects, and things I've drawn.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

I started selling in June 2008 and I haven't tried anywhere else. I was introduced earlier in the year by a friend, and thought it would be a great way to make some money to support my family through the summer. (I'm a substitute teacher, and don't work summers.)

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

I usually get an idea, then try and create it! LOL!

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Acrylic paint, pencil & paper, polymer clay, watercolors...

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?

Oh yes. Like I mentioned I am working on adding drawings and painted objects to my shop. I also like to make computer graphics and take photographs. I would like to learn how to make more detailed realistic looking sculptures from poly clay, and I am contemplating getting into the resin pendants, etc...

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

Road trips! Nature hikes, swimming, reading...

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

Not really, but I have made a few Gay Pride items and plan on making more!

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I am hoping to meet people more like myself, with similar ideas and thoughts, who can help me figure out how to sell more that hopefully I can help in return!

Spotlight on Queer Team member RANDEEANNE

2010-02-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Craftee Randee interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

I am currently selling (in various colors and styles) Knit Scarves, Knit Hats, Knit Grocery Bag Holders, and soon to be listing a Knit Shawl. Along with my hand-made knit items, I am selling original Beaded Hemp Necklaces and Beaded Hemp Braceletts. Coming soon to my shop: Four styles of my Original Photography (digital prints, film prints, color, black and white).

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

I began knitting a few years ago. During the winter 2008/2009, I started seriously getting into knitting and wanted to learn new patterns and techniques. I offered my friends/family/and coworkers free hat and scarf sets with colors and styles of their choice. Only cost to them was the material cost. This allowed me to improve my skills and help with gift giving for the Christmas season. I uploaded photos of all my custom made sets to the Queer Etsy Street Team facebook fan page.

During this time, my best friend/co-worker/fellow crafter referred me to Etsy.com. I set up my account a year ago next month. Since the weather was getting warmer, I put away my knitting needles. When December (2009) rolled back around, I got into again. I started with yarns I bought last year and created some pretty new pieces. Only thing left to do was purchase the internet for my home, start listing the items I had made, and start knitting more. That was two weeks ago. I am constantly thinking of new ways to promote, price, describe, and photograph my work. It is a challenge to balance my full time job, my etsy shop, other hobbies (which I can not give up), and find time to sleep. Somehow I manage, and I am as happy camper.

The short answer to how I started selling: I like to knit. My friend likes to knit. She found Etsy.com and recommended that I make a shop, since everyone loved my gifts. Since I love to create in general, my shop has and is continuing to expand to other forms (jewelry and photography). I have had my items listed for two weeks, no sales yet. I do not sell anywhere else, but I am open to/considering joining local craft shows or art fairs.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

My knitting process is pretty simple. I love Hobby Lobby. If I have a custom order request, I shop with an general idea of what yarn type and color. Sometime I shop with no ideas and let’s the moment embrace me. I like trying new yarns and techniques. Once I have the yarn, I find a pattern or stitch that compliments the yarn, and go from there. I inherited quite a few sizes of needles and supplies from my grandma p (who initially taught me how to knit) and my great grandma d, who was also a crafter. Crafting runs with the women in the family on both sides.

My jewelry process is close to the same. I pick the color hemp and beads, then create away. During the 4th of July weekend I made a handful or colorful hemp anklets for my mom’s brothers and sisters, and their kids. It all depends what comes first (the chicken or the egg… haha. I mean the beads or the hemp) if it is for fun, or a special request from someone I know.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Knitting: anything soft fuzzy and thick. I love bright colors too! Yarn Bee and Homespun are my favorite brands.

Hemp: I like Aztec looking beads or all sizes and shapes. I also like colorful round beads. I prefer the smaller natural hemp, but I have worked with colored hemp, and thicker hemps.

Photography: I love my Rebel T2 camera (borrowing from my mother) with black and white film. I also upgraded my digital camera as well and I am learning how to use all the new settings. If a dark room is considered “materials,” that’s also my favorite. Since I don’t have one available to me at the moment, I like to use local photography shops to do my printing. Think Global, Shop Local!

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?

Last year I was part of a knitting/crocheting group. We would meet on Sundays at someone’s house, have a couple martinis, and watch a romantic comedy. It was just three girls from work, and me, but it was enough for a good time.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

I LOVE LOVE LOVE to read. My blog (http://randeetalks.blogspot.com) is the place where I keep track of all my readings and recommendations (among other topics). I tend to find a new author and read a lot (if not all) of their work. I love the local library. I ‘rent’ seasons of past television shows. I started with The L Word (which was the second time watching all six seasons… I love it that much), then moved to Six Feet Under, True Blood (where are my vamp lovers?!), and most recently LOST! Since I graduated college and moved out on my own to a new city, I have a lot of free time.

It may sound weird but I really enjoy cleaning and re-organizing my apartment. It’s easier than moving all the time, even though I DO move a lot. I just like a change of scenery every now and again. I super clean probably every other weekend.

I like to play with my cats and meet new cats. I am your typical cat lady… just 50 years early. I am pro-animal rights/veg*nism. I no longer label myself as a veg*n because I don’t like to represent a community if I can’t do it fully and to the best of my ability.

On the occasion that I am feeling social, I tend to venture to our local gay bar with my good friend here in Lansing. Two dance floors, no cover, and drink specials. I love it. It has its good mix of cuties to dance with too J

How did you get into crafting?

My father's mother used to make really cute boxes and american girl doll clothes. I grew up around craft fairs and home made gifts. My Fathers grandmother was a knitter but I didn't know this until she passed away. I inherited a lot of her knitting supplies and sewing stuff too. My mother's mom also crochets and is a quilter. She makes these cute towels for us with a knit top so you can put in on the fridge door or cupboard hardware. Very practical. My mom and I used to do crafts all the time when I was younger too. We would make scrunchies and head bands and paint ceramic knickknacks for christmas. I grew up in a family full of crafters and I just fell into it. Now its my favorite hobby. I took two years of sewing in high school, and I am a self taught knitter (and soon to learn crocheting).

Is there anything you would like to learn to do?

I would like to learn new photography tricks, and i would love to learn how to make soup and candles. I would like to make my own beads, any maybe how to make professional dresses. I want to make movies too. and cute children's books.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

My love for all things LGBT is part of who I am and always have been. Since it’s a part of me, and a part of me is in my work, this identity is thus in my work. A month ago I made myself a rainbow chocker made from embroidery thread. I am able to make other jewelry and such with all the pretty colors of the rainbow. I haven’t really made anything specifically (for sale) to show this identity, but I am always open to new ideas and requests.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I want to help bring people to the team, fan page, and blog. I like to promote acceptance. That’s what brought me to join. I hope that my shop (and blog) brings new people to our team’s shop (and everyone personal shops for some great cross promotion!). It’s a simple way to be a part of the larger movement to promote general acceptance and equal rights.

Spotlight on Queer Team member CROWBIRDIEBEADS

2010-02-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

CrowBirdieBeads interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

Well, right now I mainly sell my handmade lampwork glass beads, although I'm planning on making some of the beads into jewelry for folks who just want to be able to wear one right away. Occasionally I have some of my vintage bead collection up for sale too, or a bit of destash to make room for the ongoing bead hoarding. I've been collecting beads since I was old enough play with them without trying to eat them.

What got you interested in glass beadmaking?

I mentioned that I have a bead collection. It's a great way to have a huge collection in a teeny storage space so I highly recommend it to everyone. I started collecting beads when I was little and my Grandmom would take me to flea markets with her. I was the cute little kid who would help her get a better price, and then I'd help her sort out the beads when we got home. I could do that for hours! I didn't get to keep them though because she used them to make crafts for bazaars for charity and I was getting serious bead envy. Soon as I could I started buying vintage and antique glass beads at markets, auctions, wherever I could find them, because at the time glass beads weren't really at the stores anywhere. The more I learned about them the more I was amazed at what little bits of history and art they really were. And how complex they could be!

I started selling vintage beads on EBay so that I could buy other beads, and it turned out to be very self-sustaining. I got involved with a great community of bead folks through a discussion group called "Beads, Beads and More Beads" and they encouraged me to try lampworking myself. I'd always sculpted in polymer clay so I fell in love with it after getting a basic setup and making these um, really ugly beads at first. It takes a lot of practice to make a good, solid bead! There's something amazing about juggling molten lava on the end of a metal stick in a flame and coming out with a piece of wearable art.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

I was selling antique and vintage beads on EBay for years, and then started selling my lampwork beads, and more than one friend told me to check out this site that was all about the handmade movement and buying direct from the artist. I took a look at it and to be honest I was pretty intimidated. I didn't actually try it out until a fellow lampwork artist "strongly suggested" it as a better outlet for my work while we were doing a local show together. I've been really happy with it, especially with the community on here. I still sell on EBay because I like the auction format and my "regulars" who support me on there (reminds me of the neighborhood auction when I was a kid) but I love having a real storefront and the support of Etsy to go with it. It's the perfect segue way at local bead shows too, when someone is looking at my work in person and I can say "Hey - have you ever checked out Etsy? I have a shop there!" and I can hand them my card. It's even better when they respond with "Really? I’m on there all the time!"

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

I have a full-time job that is fairly intense because I am the main computer and software support for an accounting firm with about 50 employees. The glass is a way to reconnect with the creative spirit and to take what amounts to a meditative break from things. Normally I'll either torch on the weekend or get up early before leaving for work so that I get about an hour at the torch. I might only get one or two beads out of a morning torch session but it makes a huge difference for me spiritually.

I try to have a plan, get the glass rods out beforehand and warm them up on the kiln a bit, try to have a picture in my head of what bird or fish or animal I want to make. Usually the fact that I'm so easily distracted means that I sit down, get the flame set up just so, go to pick up the planned color, and see this other color on the way that's perfect for something completely unrelated, then go off on a tangent and forget what I sat down to make! It's a lot of fun but makes custom work take longer ;)

As far as the actual lampworking process, I start with colored glass rods called "soft" glass or soda lime glass that have a lower melting point than borosilicate. I have a steel mandrel (think, um, like a bicycle spoke) that's dipped in bead release to keep the glass from sticking to it. I get the mandrel hot and the glass rod end hot in the flame, and then start to wind the glass around the rod. This forms the basic bead. After that I sculpt the bead using simple tools like tweezers, other glass rods, pliers with flattened ends, dental picks - whatever works to get the shape that I want. I add other colors of glass, like a white dot and a black dot to make eyes. Once the bead is finished I put it into a preheated kiln for the annealing process. This strengthens the glass so that it's less likely to break over time.
Later on, much later, maybe the next day if I was torching at night, I'll open the kiln and it's like Christmas! Hopefully the good Christmas where you got what you wanted, or you got a great surprise. Not the one where you find out Aunt Martha gave you socks again. I take the bead off the mandrel and clean out the release, and it's ready to go.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

My Partner MJ and I recently moved into this great sturdy little fixer-upper with about an acre of land in a rural area in Maryland. Our plan is to get the gardens and house turned into a small homestead, with plenty of berry bushes, a veggie garden, a butterfly & bird garden, and tons of sunflowers! And chickens - can't wait to get a small flock of laying hens again because chickens are the best. Talk about personality! They keep your sense of humor intact. I love watching the wild birds at the birdfeeders and you can see how they inspire a lot of my work. I read a lot, my Partner and I hang out with friends and go on daytrips to Gettysburg, museums in Baltimore and DC, and generally stay pretty busy.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

Yes, I'd have to say it does. Of course the obvious times would be when I make rainbow beads or put rainbows into the animals somewhere. But I'm out in my shop profile, in my life, at work, online - everywhere. It's just part of who I am, and my Partner is a big part of Crowbirdie Beads. She is my inspiration, the one who throws out these interesting challenges when I'm stuck (make a flamingo! Make a zombie bead!), and she's also the shipping department and co-photographer! I hope to do more queer activism through my art as well, either through supporting other diverse artists or directly, through charitable sales or through our Etsy Queer Team shop.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I had been searching the Teams regularly trying to find a Queer Team, a group of people with similar life experiences. I started looking about a week after I joined Etsy! It has grown so much to include some amazing artists. I have hopes that we can become a force for promoting diversity and getting the word out that we are good people as well as being creative and artsy. I like belonging to a community of exceptionally interesting folks who can brighten my day. I'm proud to be a part of it. I am hoping also that our Team Shop can help generate some much-needed funds for charity, as the shop gets more established. It's great to be a part of a community, and even better to know that you're a part of something trying to do GOOD for other people.

Spotlight on Queer Team member The ENLIGHTENED ARTISAN

2010-02-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

EnlightenedArtisan interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

Since I am a new seller, I only have a few items at present -- painted stones and origami boxes. I plan to broaden my offerings over the coming weeks and months to include altered art, a wider array of painted stones, maybe some origami box sets (marketed for storage of jewelry, keepsakes, etc), decoupaged origami boxes, and cigar box art and accessories.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

This is my third week as an Etsy seller. I've known about the site for a few years, but had not really given much thought to selling until the past two months or so. I generally do projects as I feel like it, just for fun or to give them away, but I thought it would be fun to get involved in a selling community. In the past I have done small craft fairs from time to time, but nothing big.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

I've always loved to make stuff. With the exception of the Saturday morning "art lessons" (basically just seven-year-old me messing around painting flowers with oils) in the nutmeg-infused basement of a funky-cool artist lady, I don't think I've ever taken a class. It's not that I'm opposed to them, but rather that I've always been one to kind of just figure stuff out. I see something I want to do, so I go buy a couple of books (or in today's Jetsonian age, hop on the Internet), deconstruct it and try to figure out how it's done, or just get a general idea and wing it. It is for this reason, I'm proud to say, that I never produce a "perfect" product. If I wanted something perfect, I'd commission Martha Stewart...I prefer personality!

When I paint stones, I work in one of two ways. Sometimes when I go collecting, certain stones will catch my eye and I'll see something in them, like a strawberry or a turtle. Other ones I will pick up because they have a certain texture, shape or size, but I'm not sure what will work on them yet. I just think they're cool. I'm always coming up with new designs to paint, so I have a good selection to choose from to find something to fit each stone.

I get ideas all the time, and often in odd places. For this reason, I always carry my blue graph-paper notebook with me. There's also a legal pad and pencil in the bathroom...there seems to be something about a nice hot shower that gets ideas flowing. I have a lot of drive time to work and back every day, which counts as primo idea time for me.

I paint at the kitchen table, but prefer to do a lot of my other work, believe it or not, sitting in bed. This allows me to be next to my beloved while I'm working. We make a great team that way...separate but together as I make stuff and she writes. In the interest of trying to keep the floor on my side of the bed somewhat in line, I have a little system of rolling scrapbooking crate, Christmas gift bags, and various totes in which I shuttle my materials and in-progress works back and forth between the closet, the bed and the living room.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

I like to work with natural stones. I've always had a love affair with rocks, stones and such, and am fascinated by the endless shapes, sizes and colors there are. Collecting and painting them gives me a sense of being closer to nature in a sense. I generally paint with acrylics, and use water-based varnish on most of my pieces. I also love paper...the older the better! I'm learning to decoupage with old papers -- sheet music, magazines, postcards, photos -- and find that there are endless uses for it all. I also love to try new things, so any material is a potential new favorite for me.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?

I crochet in the winter; it's too hot around South Texas in the summer to be working with yarn! Otherwise, I kind of just pick up projects as I come across them.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

I am working on the genealogy of my dad's side of my family. His father came from Greece through Ellis Island at the turn of the twentieth century, and I love digging through ancestry.com looking for family goodies. I also collect antique scrapbooks and Rushton dolls. I'm working in spurts on research for a collector's guide to Rushton dolls, because one doesn't exist, and I know if it would be helpful to me, it would surely benefit other collectors as well.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

Being gay is a part of who I am, so I think it does come out in my art just as any other part of me does.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I would love to become an active and involved member of the Queer Etsy Street Team. I actually came across the team via a post in one of the Etsy forums, and as soon as I clicked on the team profile, knew I wanted to join. And I made a great decision! Never have I felt so at home so quickly in this type of arena. Everyone welcomed me with open arms immediately and without reservation, and I love the openness and family-like atmosphere.

GAY IT FORWARD!

2010-01-18T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Queer etsy Street Team is proud to announce the grand opening of its collective shop! 100% of sales from the Queer Team shop (less etsy and Paypal fees) will be donated to various charities.
For the next month Queer Team will be donating to madre.org's emergency relief fund to benefit relief efforts in Haiti. To encourage purchases, Queer Team is offering FREE shipping on everything listed! Visit us, get something beautiful and help those in need.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/queeretsystreetteam

Spotlight on Queer Team member GILLIAUNA

2010-01-15T12:15:00.000-08:00

Zoie and Leal from http://www.etsy.com/shop/gilliauna interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

We offer handcrafted jewelry and accessories. Most of our pieces are made with beads and gemstones although we just recently added some woodwork and fiber wrapped pieces as well. The pieces we offer include necklaces, bracelets, earrings, charms, eyeglass chains, badge lanyards, bookmarks and rosaries. We've also recently opened a section that sells destash and have intentions on starting to list a selection of stitch markers, chaplets and have a few other ideas we're kicking around still.

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

We listed our first item on Etsy on October 20th, 2009. So, just about 3 months now. We also have a shop over at 1000Markets, but we don't promote there or do much there other than list items.

Etsy is our first online selling efforts.

Zoie's mother runs a candy and craft business called "Aunt Billie's" that sells in craft fairs in the Pacific NW area, and we often have a selection of our accessories available for sale through that venue. We've been selling through Aunt Billie's for a couple of years. Neither of us consider this actual selling experience since we don't participate in the fairs ourselves but simply provide the pieces an take a cut of the profit from them.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

Zoie - I like to sit down at the table where my supplies are located with a blank slate in my mind. I have a very large coffee table and my bins an containers of beads and findings are spread out over it. When I sit down, all the colors are there to help inspire me and I let instinct take over to pick what will go with what to piece together a new creation.

Leal - I dream a good portion of my pieces before they come into reality. I often wake up with new ideas fresh in my mind. Like any dream, sometimes they stick and you remember them later. Sometimes they don't. The ones I end up remembering are the pieces I end up making. Like Zoie, I'm set up on my coffee table and sit on one of those athletic exercise balls for working on my craft. It's easier on the... uh, posterior, than a chair and since I'll often sit and work through until a piece is finished (excluding rosaries, which take about 25 hours of work to complete) it's important to be comfortable while working.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Zoie - I love working with beads and glass. Jewelry making isn't my only kind of craft and I also work with glass in other ways (etching, etc). I like the way glass beads feel when I work with them and sound.

Leal - Stones. Gemstones. And more recently, wire.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop?

Zoie - Absolutely! My family is a family of woman crafters, and I was raised in a very creative environment. I love working with crafts and I'm always learning or working on something new. I enjoy landscape photography (preferring SLR 35mm film camera), glass etching and a variety of other activities.

Leal - I'm a full time college student and my interests lean heavily towards plants and botany. I'm not sure if gardening and landscaping is considered a "creative project" but that's where most of my creative interests outside my jewelry design are directed.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

Zoie - I love to read. I've been an avid reader my entire life from a very young age. Most of my spare time an hobbies are crafty or artsy though and so I spend a lot of time there.

Leal - I think I answered this already above. I garden and do landscaping design. I also participate in literary role-play with my significant other, which is similar to a creative writing exercise between yourself and others with similar interests. I hike and bike ride. I also love to eat, although I'm not a big fan of cooking.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

Zoie - I'm not sure if it does or not. It's a part of who I am, so I guess so, since I put a lot of myself into my pieces. I'd be hard pressed to explain how, specifically, it comes into play, though.

Leal - I occasionally make pride related items that we sell either on Etsy or at the craft fairs Zoie's mother attends. I think that my "queer identity" comes into play in my work no matter what I'm making though, if for no other reason that my father frowned upon my jewelry design interests as a "part" of my being queer for years. It seems to have, over time, caused me to blend my interest in this art with my "queer identity" in some ways.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

Zoie - Finding other sellers we can identify with has been something we've been interested in since beginning at Etsy, but we haven't had much of a chance to explore the Teams. When we came across Queer Etsy, it seemed the perfect fit.

Leal - Like-minded sellers. We hope, over time, to become an active part of the QEST community. Zoie, in particular, enjoys online social activities, etc.

LINKS:
Facebook: http://facebook.com/BitsnBeadsbyGilliauna

Twitter: http://twitter.com/gilliauna
My Blog: http://gilliauna.blogspot.com
deviantArt: http://gilliauna.deviantart.com/
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gilliauna/

Spotlight on Queer Team member GALLERIA DI GIANI

2010-01-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/GalleriaDiGiani interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?

I do beaded jewelry. Currently, there is one piece that also incorporates fused fine silver. That is a skill I only recently acquired, so I am looking forward to offering more things like that in the future.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

I have only been on etsy for about three months. I also sell through 1000 Markets, and have been selling there since July. But I have been making jewelry since the mid 90's, and started off by selling through consignment shops throughout Seattle. Now, I am focusing on online sales only. I will do the occasional craft fair as well, but I haven't been doing consignment shops lately.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

Although I make jewelry, I consider myself first and foremost a photographer (will get into that in more detail in later questions on the list). So, with a background in photography, I am a visual (sometimes visceral) artist. I don't often create out of thin air. Often, I will see something, a pendant frame, a stone cut a certain way, a brooch, something, and it will give me ideas as to something to make. Once upon a time, a bead wholesaler that I ordered from included, as a free gift, a wooden pendant in which the cap had a wand attached. It was a perfume/aromatherapy pendant, and I had never seen one before. When it came time to design a new product line for my shop, I remembered that pendant and went looking for more. I found many people on ebay selling sterling ones, which were even more fashionable, and so was born a product line!

What are your favorite materials to work with?

While I use as big a variety of beads as I can, I always come back to the earthier stones...things like tiger eye, onyx, unakite, hematite, jasper, lapis (when I can afford to)...I just find the earthier looking stones to be so wonderfully grounding and help bring an extra bit of peace to my pieces.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?

Yes, as I stated earlier, I am a photographer. I am working on opening two photo shops on etsy this year. One will be for my nature/landscape/architecture style photos, and the other will be for my erotic prints. My b/w erotic prints (www.johntozzi.com) are really the cornerstone of my art life.

The funny thing is, I didnt even really become a photographer until my late 20's. I had done a lot of writing before that. But, in the early 90's, I had a hand injury, and, as part of the rehab process, I wasnt allowed to type (outside of an hour or two on my day job) for many months. So, without that creative outlet at my disposal, I was starting to get a little stir crazy. One day, just for fun, a friend asked if I would take some nude pix of him. He wanted some, but wasn't comfortable asking someone he didnt know to take them. Personally, I think he just asked me to get my mind off my problems for an afternoon. Anyway, the pix turned out great, I had a blast, and found that I really enjoyed doing it. And, as the saying goes, the rest is history. It was really a surreal experience having my life's passion come out of such an ordeal, but, hey, however it got here, I am just glad it got here!

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

I watch a lot of movies (my dvd collection at home is scary....one of my best friends nicknamed my collection "Blockbuster", if that gives you any idea). I also listen to a ton of music, and read when I can.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?

It doesn't really come into play in my jewelry, but, obviously, for my erotic photography, it definitely comes into play. Although I call my work erotic, I would really rather call it "sensual", because it is more about moods than brazen sexuality. Still, when it comes to finding the sensuality in a person, I am not sure if a straight man would be able to find it and bring it out in other men the same way a queer artist would. We just have so much more experience with that part of men.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?

I was actually turned on to the team by one of the members (Moinks), who I encountered in an etsy chat room one night. I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to meet, hang out, and talk with other queer artists just to see what other types of work were being produced within the community.

Please feel free to contact John through an etsy convo if you have any questions about his work or anything else...

Spotlight on Queer Team member GREENMANDESIGNS

2009-12-13T05:16:00.000-08:00

greenmandesigns interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
Honestly, since I tend to work in a variety of media, there's a wide range of work there! Everything from figurative sculpture (AKA "art dolls"), mixed-media assemblage, altered/customized Barbies (the Ikon series), vinyl and plush to collage, photography and digital works.

In the coming year, once I'm off the road so much (I travel *very* frequently for work, and am away from home for months on end) I plan on adding new items in media such as painting, ACEO's, and whatnot....we'll have to see what comes from keeping my hands busy and out of (too much) trouble!

I'd also like to venture into realms that I have yet to explore a whole lot, such as clothing, fabric/fiber, quilting and the like.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
I've been on Etsy since 2005, though I haven't focused on it as much as I would like to over the course of those years...see response above regarding work/travel!

To begin with, out of a simple liking of anything hand-made. I'd prefer the ugliest vase (or whatever) made by hand than something mass-produced. I'd rather my money go to an individual than to a corporation. Even better if it's hand-made and NOT ugly, though!

Beyond that, out of a general dislike of Ebay and some of their policies/fees...and not having the time or desire to keep watching the items I want to purchase! I still sell there on occasion, as certain items get a lot more attention there than on Etsy, custom vinyl in particular.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
First step: Clean my work area!
Second step: Start 10 different projects at once.
Third step: Alternate through them willy-nilly. I totally have Creative ADD.
Fourth step: Start back at step one.

I can sometimes get wrapped up in one particular piece for days/weeks, other times I literally rotate through them by the hour...doing a little bit on one thing, setting it aside, then focusing on another. This is partially due to having to allow for drying/setting/curing time and partially the aforementioned ADD.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Despite having grown up painting (my non-blood "aunt" was a professional watercolorist and taught me very early on) and making a pretty okay living doing it, I've spent most of the past 15 years or so working mainly in the 3D realms.

I guess you could say my current "favorites" are mixed media (yeah, I know....vague) and photography. I like being able to take disparate objects and work them into a cohesive piece....and photography because it allows me to have a completely portable means of expression, and it also makes me pay close attention to details. I'm a huge fan of macro. Some people argue that digital photography doesn't have the validity of "true" photography, because one can take a bajillion photos and not have to worry about technical skill/processing the film/etc. I argue that it's just the opposite....it frees one up to SEE a bajillion things and have the freedom to capture them....and NOT worry about how much film you have left! Yes, you may discard 3/4's of what you take....or more...but the ones that hit the spot make up for that.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
Life. No, really. I'm lucky to live in a rural area that is heavily populated with queer/artist communes, where spontaneous Life Creativity is the norm and encouraged! Fabulous over-the-top costumes, burlesque, performance and the like are regular occurences. I breathe/eat/spin/dance with fire from time to time.

I also knit, though I'm the world's slowest knitter. And I only know how to knit/purl...with a few things like increase/decrease thrown in. I'm a master at long, straight scarves, though!

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
At this point in my life, the majority of my free time is spent working on the home that my partner (Charlie, 14 years and going....woot!) and I are building....entirely by hand, ourselves. While rewarding, it's *definitely* an ongoing, sometimes tedious, process! The benefits are that everything is just how you want it, with no living in a boring plain white box....the not-so-great aspects are that I could happily live the entire rest of my life without ever seeing a sheet of drywall or a level or power tool ever again. Well, until we start on my studio, at least. And the greenhouse/bathhouse. And the porch. And the balcony. And...and....

I also really enjoy gardening...from planning them out, to watching as seeds sprout and eventually bloom.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
I'm sure it does to some extent, because that's who I am, but I don't think it does a whole lot, visually/thematically. Very few of my pieces are autobiographical, you could say. A friend once commented on the fact that with my being a gay man, he would have expected my work to be more about the male body...but it's rare that that is the case. Nine times out of ten, my subjects are female. While sexuality/sensuality frequently play roles in my artwork, it's rarely my own.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I hope to help get an active following of supporters of queer artists going....not just for my own work, but in general! Anyone who supports artists gets a Big Gold Star in my book....and if they happen to support queer artists, all the better!

Folks are welcome to stop by my blog and see what goofiness I may be up to at any given time! I tend to ramble on about just about anything and everything that catches my attention, not just artwork. Though that is a frequent subject!

Win big on Black Friday!

2009-11-27T17:33:00.000-08:00

Queer Team is hosting an amazing giveaway at etsy! You could win a whole smorgasbord of gorgeous prizes assembled by many queer team members. Click the link below for the rules and good luck!
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6361399

You could win ALL of the following:

This lovely photo print by BustedKnuckle: http://www.etsy. com/view_ listing.php? listing_id= 23031066

Beautiful baubles for your hair by FatFemmeLaboratory: http://www.etsy. com/view_ listing.php? listing_id= 23027271

Adorable magnet set by Sbdesign:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35326403

A scrumptious monthly subscription to wonderful weekly cookbooks by oakling:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/oakling?section_id=5728801

Breathtaking Holiday hair accoutrement by LooksGood: http://www.etsy. com/view_ listing.php? listing_id= 32892067

Super cool Nerd Girl Notecard set and lovely Secret Feather ACEO by tikikiki:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34363186

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25980868

Badass silkscreened notebooks and tote by fauxsure: http://www.etsy. com/view_ listing.php? listing_id= 23270041
http://www.etsy. com/view_ listing.php? listing_id= 32067467

A tiny delicious gift set by Heathen's Hearth (similar to what is seen here):
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35018728

A phenomenal 5x7" fine art print of YOUR CHOICE from anotherangle:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/anotherangle

And finally, a hand painted surprise ceramic gift from the whimsical world of queenofqueens:
http://www.queenofqueens.etsy.com

Resin Tutorial from Team Member SB Design

2009-11-17T22:37:00.000-08:00

I started working with resin about two years ago, after realizing that a lot of the jewelry I was drawn to used one resin technique or another. I am now officially hooked. I love the versatility resin presents, and how easy it is to make personal, meaningful items. Resin photo pendants make a great gift for anyone. Check out this site for some ideas.

A word about resin: this tutorial uses resin, which is durable, permanent and waterproof. There are lots of resin-type products on the market that aren't actually resin, such as Diamond Glaze or Crystal Lacquer. Be very careful when purchasing something that does not specifically say resin. These products are often water resistant but not waterproof. Either product will work, just be sure you know what you want for your design.

This tutorial will teach you how to make three different items using resin: Pendants, Flat Magnets and Round Magnets.

Materials List
Images
Mod Podge
Paintbrush
Scissors
1" Circle Paper Punch (optional)
Magnet Sheet
Magnet Buttons
Pendant Frames
Resin
Mixing Cups
Stir Stick
Resin Dye
Plastic Paint Palette
E6000 Glue

A few notes about materials:
The pendant frames I use are from Becky Nunn at Nunn Designs, part of her Patera Jewelry line. They are the large pendant squares available in antique silver, copper or gold. Check out her website to find where to buy them.

The resin I use is Envirotex Lite, which can be purchased at Michael's or Joann Fabrics. They also sell the resin dye, if you choose to color the resin. Don't forget to bring your 40% off coupon!

1. Prepare your workspace.

Resin is sticky...very, very sticky. The best way to deal with resin spills is to avoid spilling on anything you care about, like your dining room table. Put down a layer of newspaper to protect your work surface. Your resin pieces will take about 24 hours to cure completely. Find a flat, portable surface, like a tray or a book, that you can move to an out of the way place to dry. I use a wooden tray that I cover in wax paper.

2. Prepare your images.
There are so many incredible images out there. The beauty of resin is you can use anything, from magazine pictures to cards to photos, which allows you to create items that are very personal. The images I used are from etsy seller Petite Paperie, who has tons of incredible, high quality image sheets. The best part about working with these sheets is you can save them to use again and again. The sheets I chose were 1" x 1" Square Fruit Crate Labels, 1" x 2" Halloween Postcards and .75" square Bright Flowers. Check out her shop for more options.

Pick the specific images you want to use and cut them to size. Use a paintbrush to coat the images in Mod Podge. Be sure to coat all surfaces, front, back and sides, at least twice and allow to dry completely. You want the image to be completely covered so no resin will seep in and damage your image.

3. Prepare magnets & pendants.

Flat Magnets: Cut the magnet sheet to the size of the image. I keep a very small border of magnet around my image to make sure the resin completely covers the design and adheres to the magnet. Peel away the film to expose the adhesive and apply the image. Trim any excess magnet with scissors.

Pendants: Trim the images to fit inside the pendant frames. Apply a small amount of Mod Podge inside the pendant to glue your images in place. Be sure the outside and corners of the image are firmly stuck to the pendant. This will keep air bubbles from forming.

Round Mangets: Trim the images to fit into the paint palette using scissors or a 1" circle cutter.

4. Prepare the resin.

These directions are specifically for Envirotex Lite Resin. If you are using a different resin, be sure to follow the directions that come with the product.

Warm the resin. This will prevent air bubbles from forming and make the resin easier to mix. Put a bowl of water in the microwave and heat. Put resin and hardener bottles in warm water for several minutes.

Measure the resin into 2 mixing cups. Envirotex Lite resin is a 1 to 1 mixture, meaning equal parts resin and hardener are used. Be sure you measure each part carefully. If the resin mixture is off, your pieces may not cure correctly or may be sticky.

Pour the resin into the hardener. Stir with your stir stick slowly to prevent adding air bubbles to the mixture. When you begin to stir, the mixture will become slightly cloudy. Stir for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes clear again.

5. Apply resin to the pieces.

Flat Magnets: Use your stir stick to slowly drizzle the resin over the magnet sheets. If you apply enough resin it should flow to the outside of the magnet without spilling over. You may need to guide the resin into the corners with the stir stick. If you spill the resin just slide the magnet over a few inches away from the puddle and allow to dry.

Pendants: You can pour the resin into the pendant frames, or drizzle with the stir stick. Fill the resin to the top or allow to dome over slightly, whichever you prefer. Some people like to fill to the top on the first pour and dome with a second layer of resin once the first has dried. Since the pendant frames are not that deep you can dome in the first pour if you choose to, depending on the look you want.

Round Magnets: Pour the resin into the paint palette openings and fill about half way. Let resin sit for a few minutes so you can get rid of any bubbles that form. Once the bubbles are gone, place images face down in the resin and coat with a thin layer of resin. Be sure to leave enough room in the palette opening (at least 1/8") to add your second layer of colored resin.

6. Get rid of bubbles.

Bubbles...they happen. Sometimes they happen after a piece has set and you can't do anything about it. Learn to like them. If not like, at least learn to appreciate them. That said, there are a few ways to get rid of bubbles while the resin is still soft.

- "Huff" on the piece, with short bursts of air. Bubbles are popped by carbon dioxide. Your breathe will bring the bubbles to the surface and pop them. You can also blow gently through a straw.

- Pass some sort of flame over the piece. You have to be very careful with this - do not get too close or you can mar the surface of the resin or create ripples. It also makes the resin smell horrible. But, it does the job, at least most of the time.

- Use a needle or toothpick to get the bubbles to the surface, then either pop or remove them.

For more suggestions on getting rid of bubbles, check out Craft Zombie's blog. You have about a 10-15 minute window for removing bubbles. After that point the resin will start the set and you run the risk of ruining your piece.
Bubbles are MUCH easier to remove when the resin is fresh. If you allow the resin to sit for awhile and then try to remove the bubbles it may be too late. Even after following all these suggestions, you may still get bubbles. And to that I say, that's the beauty of handmade! It's not a mistake, it's artistic. Chances are, you will be your worst critic. Most people won't even notice that bubble that you agonized over. So...do what you can but don't worry too much about it.

7. Add the second resin layer.

This step is only for the round magnets. Anytime after 12 hours the second layer of resin can be applied. Mix another batch of resin and add resin dye. You do not need a lot of dye...a little goes a long way! Start with a few drops and add more as needed. Mix thoroughly. Pour colored resin over the first layer and fill to the top of the paint palette opening. This layer should be level with or slightly below the surface of the palette rather than domed. Watch for 15-20 minutes to remove any bubbles that form.

Cover paint palette and allow resin to cure.

8. Add finishing touches.
Pendants: Add necklace cord to pendants.

Flat Magnets: These should be finished! Put on your fridge and enjoy!

Round Magnets: Once the resin pieces are cured, remove them from the paint palette. Put the tray into the freezer for 30-60 seconds to help release the pieces from the mold. Use E6000 to glue magnet buttons to back of the resin design. Allow to dry completely.

That's it! You can now make three different resin creations. Resin is not scary and it is far from rocket science, so don't be afraid to try it out. Have fun and be creative!

★★★★★This tutorial was designed as part of Tutorial Exchange Program from Totally Tutorials. Special thanks to Petite Paperie for the fabulous images! Be sure to check out the Totally Tutorials blog for inspiration for your next project.★★★★★

Queer Team Specials!

2009-11-16T23:44:00.000-08:00

Huge sale in QueenofQueens Arts and Crafts Chop Shop! Everything 20-50% off now through Thanksgiving to make way for oodles of magically delicious new stuff. Get it now and get it in time for Chrismahanukwanzasolstice.

Spotlight on Queer Team member SB DESIGN

2009-09-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

sbdesign interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
Jewelry, specializing in resin and fine silver designs.

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
I started selling on etsy in September, 2007. My jewelry habit had gone from a pastime to an obsession, so I either had to start selling my pieces or stop making them. Someone mentioned etsy at a jewelry class I was taking, and once I saw it I was hooked. I started posting items that day. I also sell my jewelry at art fairs and a couple boutiques in Minnesota.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
Generally speaking I just sit down and start creating. I get inspired by the things around me and what's going on that day, so I tend to create based on my mood. I sketch designs out all the time but rarely use them. I like to be spontaneous and let the materials dictate what I make.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
resin and Precious Metal Clay (PMC)
PMC is completely addictive. I come from a clay background and loved working with clay, so finding a material that acts like clay and becomes silver is truly amazing. I'm also getting into fused glass. I took a great class at the Bead and Button Conference in Milwaukee this past summer on plaid glass. It's such a unique look and the possibilities are endless! That's definitely something I want to play with more.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
I've recently started a blog, which I really enjoy - http://sbjewelrydesign.blogspot.com/. As far as creating things is concerned, I am always taking classes. I love to learn about anything every remotely related to jewelry. In the last 6 months I've taken classes in stained glass, soldering, glass fusing, and BronzClay. I'm a teacher by day so taking classes really motivates and intrigues me. It's also a great way to make connections with other artists.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
I'm a librarian, so I love to read. I also love hanging out with my partner and our 2 dogs, walking by the Mississippi River, biking, watching movies, and traveling. I also write. I'm in the process of creating a children's book. I spend my days surrounded by kids and books, so writing my own stories seemed inevitable.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
Definitely! I had a booth at the Twin Cities Pride event last year and designed a whole rainbow jewelry line. I have a rainbow necklace that I wear all the time and I love, and I wanted to be able to make something like that for others. My goal was to create something that was fun and elegant at the same time, and that people could wear whether they were out or not. I think having these designs at my non-queer events helps me to connect with queer customers. One day I would like to put together a juried queer art show, to showcase the work of queer artists.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I really enjoy connecting with artists, and it's so great to find a group of people that you can be completely open with. I've been part of other arts organizations that are more conservative, and for me, art is all about being honest. Being queer is an important part of my identity that I don't want to have to hide. I am so excited that there is this incredibly talented, vibrant group of queer artists on etsy, and that I get to be part of it!

Queer Team Face time and Tweets!

2009-09-13T21:04:00.001-07:00

The Queer team now has a Twitter and a Facebook fan page! Please add us to keep updated about team news and snazzy new Queer made art and crafts!

http://twitter.com/QueerEtsy
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Queer-Etsy-Street-Team

Spotlight on Queer Team member Fauxsure

2009-09-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

Interviewed by queenofqueens

Tell us who you are and what the name of your shop is:
i'm keith and my shop is fauxsure

How did you start screen printing?
printmaking was my studio concentration in my undergrad work, and i first worked with screenprinting in '99. i mostly printed on paper (flat prints and also artists' books) and aluminium sheets. i started making t shirts in '02.

Do you work in other mediums besides printing?
How do they compare? i do a lot of drawing, but that's about it for visual stuff. i dj and produce dance music with my husband(myspace.com/ladycreme) but there's not really a strong connection to my visual work. in our production work, we try to make fun music that references elements of classic dance music but still sounds mondern. our dj mixes vary, but are usually in the synthy disco/ melodic electro vein.

You're located in Brooklyn. Has the art scene there had an impact upon your work?
i'm definitely influenced by street art and graffitti. i don't get out to see as much art as i would like, but in my day job i work with artists (managing artist-in-residency programs in nyc public schools and training artists/mfa students to become teaching artists). living in new york is a huge influence on my work in general. i find inspiration all over the place (as cliche as that sounds.)

How does being queer influence your work as an artist?
it's hard to say... there's a definite influence, but it varies and is always changing. in college, my prints dealt a lot with themes around masculinity and masculine archetypes (through superheroes). right now, the "queerest" thing i've done is my "village pigeons" design... pigeons are one of the few forms of wildlife we new yorkers see on a daily basis, so i thought it would be cute/funny to put them in the costumes of the village people. i guess that's pretty gay...

You created the Queer Team logo, what inspired you to use the imagery you chose?
i was inspired by the "purple rhino" logo designed by activist bernie toal from 1974 that was created to help bring attention to gay rights in boston. i thought it would be a fun way to pay tribute to a little-known queer symbol. plus i liked the idea of "charging forward" and the rhino was a fun animal to work with.

What else do you want us to know about you?
i love to cook. i'm disappointed with obama (although i thought i had pretty realistic expectations). i've been with my husband for almost 11 years, and just got married in july. we have an abyssinian cat named sebastian who's super-cute and a little high-maintence. lately i've been reading a lot of zombie-related stuff. i'm a sucker for bad tv. i'm allergic to dairy and beer. i can't stand showtunes. i have an irish temper that pops up every so often. i think the etsy forums are a bit scary. i wonder about the people who buy my stuff and would love to see pictures of them...

Spotlight on Queer Team member ALTEREDBEAUTY

2009-08-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

alteredbeauty interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
Right now I am offering jewelry, but I plan on expanding to altered art items as well. My main focus at the moment is Steampunk jewelry.

For those people not familiar, can you tell us a little more about "Steampunk"?
Sure. Steampunk is very much about steam power, turn of the century technology, victorian style, psuedo-victorian style, and turning modern objects into objects consistent with the victorian era. In creating jewelry, I use vintage watch movements, ephemera, brass, and copper.

How did you first start selling on Etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
I started selling in May. I learned about it online and thought that it would be fun to try! Before that, I primarily made jewelry for friends and family as gifts. I am not currently selling anywhere else, but plan to start selling at craft fairs.

How did you get started making jewelry?
I got started making jewelry when I was working at a domestic violence shelter as a graveyard client advocate. I met a woman (a shelter resident) who was always up late making jewelry. She would come in and talk to me at night, and she eventually taught me the basics of wire wrapping. From then on I taught myself more and more. I started making more things for family, and family friends started asking for things as well. I did all of the jewelry for a co-workers wedding. At that point, I heard about Etsy and decided to get started.

Where do your ideas/ inspiration come from?

They come from all around me. I think a lot of my inspiration comes from the industrial revolution, science, and literature.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?

I don't have a very specific creative process; I tend to get inspired by a particular material or item and begin from there.

What are your favorite materials to work with? I love working with old watch parts, vintage ephemera, brass, copper, silver, gemstones, and pearls.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your Etsy shop?
I am trying to learn needle felting in my spare time...so far I haven't stabbed myself but I did manage to lose the tip of a needle somewhere in my couch.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
I love spending time with my husband, dog, and reading. I also work full time at a nonprofit organization in addition to running my Etsy shop, so I don't have a whole lot of free time.

How do you make space and time for your creative work amid everything else you've got going on?
I am able to make time for my creative work by using it as an outlet and opportunity for relaxation. My job can be emotionally trying at times, so my creativity allows me to express that when needed and also gives me a way to get away from everything for a few hours.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
It does to an extent. Since it is so much a part of me I think it has to, although that may not be visible. I am interested in opening a second shop dedicated to feminist and pride items when I have some more time.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
When I first heard about teams on Etsy I immediately looked for a GLBT team :-D I am hoping to just enjoy the company of other crafty members and become more involved!

Spotlight on Queer Team member SARAHDERAGON

2009-08-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

...And we're back with the team interviews...
sarahderagon interviewed by fauxsure

What sorts of things do you offer in your shop?
I offer all kinds of fabulous hair accessories from small flower clips to headbands with brightly colored feathers and of course glitter! I actually just started playing around with creating veils too!

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?
I have been selling on etsy for less than a month. I set up my shop because my best friend (emintaos) has had an etsy shop for awhile and was always raving about it. She and I talk a lot about strategy, marketing, photography and building community - so having the shop actually keeps us in constant communication, which is nice because she's a busy stay at home mom. Originally, I came to etsy as a shopper because I'd rather buy handmade and I adore their daily emails - so many wonderful treasures to choose from. As far as selling anywhere else, I recently tabled the craft show at Homo-A-Go-Go and will be doing another show in San Francisco in September. I was also approached to present at the ArtDyke monthly salon in Berkeley in September where I'll talk about how I do what I do - I'm excited.

Where do your ideas/ inspiration come from?
I think that my love of old movies and glamor are my inspiration. Luckily in the queer community I see inspiration around me everyday in the community - I love femmes because you know what, they know how to command attention when walking into a room and I try to put that into each one of my designs. It is actually harder for me to design smaller things vs. the big bright over the top pieces! Editing is a constant struggle in my design process.

Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of steps do you usually go through?
My work process is sporadic - I have spurts of creativity when I can churn out 6 pieces and then there are days when I feel totally bleh about the glue gun and spend my time flipping through magazines or doing research on the internet. Lately, I have been designing in 3's - so I'll go get 3 big flowers or 3 colorful feathers or 3 little sparkly accent pieces and then design with those as the main focus. Some of my pieces have many many steps - take for example my design called "Jingle Bell Rock" http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29962700 - I have to go find the ugly Christmas sweater, cut it up, paint the edged with Fray Stop, let it dry for 24 hours, adhere it to some felt, let that dry for 24 hours, clean up the edges, secure it to a headband, photograph it on a model, shoot it in a lightbox, edit the photos, come up with the blurb, price it and THEN it goes up on etsy. Phew, that is kind of a lot of work, but you know what - I love it!

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Feathers, glitter, flowers, tulle, buttons (with the backs cut off) and felt.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?
Sometimes I feel like my entire life is a creative project!! I'm surfing the fun-employment wave, so yes, I have lots of different things going on right now.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
I like spending time with my wonderful partner, walking my pitbull mix named Pork Chop, baking, yoga, hanging out with my friends and I am trying to do more professional photography.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
My queer identity is integral to my designs. I don't think that my designs resonate with the hetero community as much because I keep hearing women say, "Oh, I like your stuff, but I'd never wear it" or "I don't want to attract that much attention to myself" and as a femme - I don't even think about that stuff. I am unapologetic in my fabulousness and I think that my designs help point out the fact that yes, I'm a big queer and I have no problem wearing a big feather head piece out to brunch with my friends. My hope is that I can set an example for the straight girls - do it - be out there - attract attention - wear something gorgeous in your hair - you deserve it!

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I adore that there is a Queer Etsy Street Team because when I was at Homo-A-Go-Go I was talking to other queer crafters on etsy and we all talked about how, for us, etsy was lacking a sense of community. I think that this team is important because of the visibility it provides us as artists/designers, but also lets other queers find us, so that they can spend their gay dollars in our shops. I know that when I buy something I'd much rather go support a queer business, so here we are, now support us. There is so much creativity in the queer community and it doesn't surprise me that so many of us perform, make crafts, sing, etc... I think having a hub where we can connect across the country is vital to our survival. My hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team is that our blog continues to thrive, that we get to know one another during chats and one day that the daily email features all things Queer - cause you know we're amazing!

2009-08-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Team member sarahderagon has been mentioned in tikikiki's adorable blog! Go there now and see all manner of fantastic queer team crafts as well as lot's of yummy other stuff germane to all that is gloriously gay!

New Team Chat Times!

2009-08-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

I'm glad to see that we're growing to the point that we now need regional chats.
Splitting the chats into East and West coast groups is a great idea! If
eventually we need more, we can further subdivide them.

Meanwhile, here's how we'll break it down for the time being:

East coast chat @ 8pm-9pm EST on Tuesdays
West Coast Chat @ 8pm-9pm PST on Tuesdays

I will helm the West Coast chat and The Om Intention will helm the East coast
chat.

Important: You do NOT have to live in a specific area to participate in either
chat! Go to whichever one works best for you! We're just trying to create a
bigger window of opportunity so more people can jump in the fray. Queer team
loves cross pollination!

That said, we will be discussing the possibilities for regional events as well
as plans for the entire team. Yay!

Just remember the acronym "C U Next Tuesday" and come gab with us!

New Team Treasury!

2009-08-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

Snagged by Sbdesign! Check it out before it disappears here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=78540

Emerging from our big gay K hole...

2009-08-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

The Queer Team is back from herding cats and Summer fun. We've just added a bunch of new queer etsy shops to our shop links and new blogs as well, so please peruse!

Queer Team are Artists Exposed!

2009-02-04T12:51:00.000-08:00

The Queer Etsy Street Team has been featured in an Artists Exposed treasury by fabulous etsy seller VickiDiane! Been wondering who some of the faces behind queer team are? Take a look and leave us a comment!
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6029160

Spotlight on Queer Team Member thickneckarts!

2009-01-16T09:25:00.000-08:00

A rousing interview with Queer team member thickneckarts conducted by the spectacular fauxsure:

How did you first start selling on etsy? How long have you been selling? Do you sell anywhere else?

A friend of mine introduced me to Etsy. I was looking for a online site that was relatively inexpensive and low maintenance.

I joined Etsy in May 2008. I haven't branched out to any other sites really. Not for selling anyway.

Where do your ideas/ inspiration come from ?

Colors. Mostly monochromatic systems. I love mixing colors that you wouldn't normally put together and then the bead, or pendant or painting, come out looking super sweet. I'm also a huge advocate for recycling and upcycling. I think people should get more excited about the different ways their "old" stuff can be used rather than buying new stuff to replace it. I rarely throw anything away without first putting it to use for something else, or breaking it down and making something out of its parts.
Tell us a little about your typical creative process and how you go about making your work. What kinds of stages do you usually go through? Is your process varied depending on what materials you're working with?
When it comes to the polymer clay beads, I'll be going about my business and just see 3 or 4 colors in my surroundings (natural or otherwise) and wonder how they would look together. Then I'll tinker with layering them, checkerboarding them, maybe swirling them, until I get the result I like best. Some times the color scheme is good but the shape it ends up in, like a barrel bead or flat pendant, makes it even better.

Right now, I'm really into creating color schemes that excite or fit my mood and the material doesn't really matter. The end results I want are driven by the hues of the world, not necessarily their vehicles.
Your shop is very diverse. How do you decide what to list? Are there more areas you'd like to branch out into in the future?
Right now, I mostly list the second best of my work. My best work tends to go to friends or family. And my partner usually gets the best of the jewelry. lol.

I'd love to branch out into screenprinting as my first love is drawing and sketching. When I was younger I wanted to start a t-shirt printing co. and just make rad t-shirts with crazy designs and stencil pics on them. We'll see...

How did you get started with papermaking?

Their are a couple of entertainment "newspapers" here in town and I used to pick them up at work to look through at lunch. They began accumulating in the back of my truck and I kept forgetting to take them to recycling. One day I was on Instructables.com looking for bookbinding help when I came across a DIY recycled paper instructable. Since then, I've destroyed our blender, 4 or 5 picture frames and dyed our pie spatula red!

Tell us a little about your YouTube channel. How did you get started making videos related to your work?
I've only got a couple of videos on YouTube. One for making a tin and one for making a stencil print. A friend of mine suggested people might dig buying a product they could watch being made. I felt like that fit right in with the handmade crafts genre. What other product can you buy and see the actual work being done to create it? Kinda makes the purchase more personal I think.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Right now, newspaper. The ending product isn't as durable as I'd like it to be (still working on that) but at then end of the day, it's completely biodegradable. What's better than giving someone a card for a birthday or holiday and know that even if they toss it in the trash instead of recycling, it will still biodegrade?

Do you also buy things on etsy?  What sorts of items have you purchased?

I do. Whenever I'm looking for gifts, Etsy is the first place I go. So far I've purchased mostly jewelry.

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work in your etsy shop?

I write. Mostly poetry but I'm tip-toeing in the short story genre.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?

Composting. Learning how to lessen my impact on the environment. Trying to raise awareness of how easy it really is to lessen your own impact on the environment. It's really just a matter of re-training your thinking about every day habits. That alone can make a huge difference!
Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
If it does, it isn't planned. I mean, I've done a couple of rainbow beads and pendants but that's about it. I am queer but that's not who I am. And I want people to dig my work because they just plain dig it. Not necessarily because we have that one thing in common.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team?  What brought you to join?

I would like to see the team grow in numbers. What I hope for any queer group I join is to raise an awareness of differences as commonalities and to create a positive path for younger generations to follow.

Do you have any goals for your shop in 2009?

For 2009, I'd love to perfect recycling paper into giftables, such as cards, scrapbook pages, journal pages or journal covers!

Team Spotlight: Interview with mshalston

2009-01-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

Interviewed by fauxsure
How did you come to sell your work on etsy? Do you sell your stuff through any other venues?
I received an e-mail from my husband at the beginning of December saying, "You can sell books through Etsy!" My response was, "But they're not handmade." I was very happy to hear that as long as I had written them, I could sell them. And I have since added my first handmade book to my shop, so that's exciting. As for selling other places, I have a bookstore section on my website for my novel, my collection of plays, and my comic. My novel, A Girl Named Charlie Lester, is also available through most online bookselling venues and you can order it from any brick and mortar bookstore. But my visual art is only available through Etsy.

What do you hope your buyers will get out of your work? what do you hope to communicate to them through your work?
Mainly, I hope buyers will find my work thought-provoking or, failing that, entertaining. Because I mostly write about people interacting with each other, I feel like there's a universality to my stories. And I hope that the people who read them will experience a connection that is sometimes lacking in "serious" fiction and, truth be told, life.

Where do you get your inspiration?
Oh...everywhere. People I see on the train. Hypothetical conversations that build from a word or two overheard from strangers who are talking too loudly. Sometimes it's music. One of my illustrated poems that's currently in my shop was inspired by the music of Raymond Scott. I don't think he was ever actually the front man of any jazz band in any night club, but I like to pretend that he was.

Are there other art forms/ craft traditions that you think influence your work?

I feel as if my visual art is definitely beholden to the cartoons of Chuck Jones. There's a relief print I'm currently working on that is skewing very sharply in the Dr. Seuss direction. I may get a call from his lawyers. And all of my writing is definitely influenced by my status as a theatregoer. I was introduced to the theatre at a very young age and it influenced every notion I've ever had about what's funny, what's touching, what dialogue should sound like, what's good, and what's not.

What is your typical creative process like? What kinds of stages do you usually go through when making your work?

For writing, I try to finish a first draft before editing. That rarely occurs, but I try. After the first draft is done, I'll go back and revamp or rework scenes, building bridges or adding segue. Sometimes the final product is dramatically different than the initial version. For shorter works, I rarely need more than two or three drafts before it's complete. For a novel, it's closer to six or more. And then I need feedback before I can continue. I'm lucky to be surrounded by smart people who love to read. For visual art, I'm not sure I have a specific set of steps to follow. I had an drawing professor who once told me that she was of the "do whatever works" school of art. And I think that's how I try to attack visual art. I'll draw or paint and if it's not working, I'm fine with drastically altering something. For example, one print I have in my shop was originally a painting. There's sheet music in the background of the piece and when it came out smudgy, rather than pristine, I poured water over it to aggravate it. And when it dried, I was much happier with the outcome.

Tell us a little about your approach to the written word. What's important to you as a writer?
Oddly enough, the most important aspect of writing fiction (for me) is truth. If I'm writing a scene or exposing a character's thoughts, I want them to seem real. I think that stems from a friend advising me while I was writing my first novel. I told him there was a lot of sex in it and I worried that it would distract from the story being told. He told me not to worry, that it would be fine as long as the sex scenes were real. I took that to mean that if they weren't just for titilation, if I could showcase all the awkward moments in sex, the bad and the good, then it would be successful and not at all distracting. Especially considering that I was telling a story about a girl who ages eight years throughout the tale. Of course she has sex. That's only natural.

What sorts of materials do you like to work with?
Words. They're in my writing, of course, but they're also in my visual art. I'm very attracted to a picture that also asks me to read.

Do you also buy things on etsy? What sorts of items appeal to you?

I do! I'm actually planning on buying soap today. I'm also partial to hats (cloches, to be specific), art, books, zines, and little toys! There's a specific plushy friend that I want to purchase as soon as I next get paid...

Are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work that can be found on etsy?
I'm currently working on a two-person show, involving a pair of women who represent generations of females all the way back to prehistory. It will highlight how each woman first grasps her imminent mortality. Also, I'm working on my second novel, a satirical piece about the state of literature and the state of entertainment in the US. There are quite a few short stories and a couple of comics. Oh, and I'm the contributing editor of apt, an online literary journal. We just turned three years old and are looking into publishing a print issue or anthology of our best pieces from 2005-2008.

Besides art/ crafty stuff, what else do you like doing in your free time?
I love to travel. I love visiting members of my chosen family. I love singing and acting and laughing.

Does your queer identity come into play in your work?
Most definitely. There are several of my pieces that I like to call "the gay ones." Besides A Girl Named Charlie Lester (which mostly predated all my own same-sex experiences), they're the short stories and poems and plays that are largely about LGBT men and women. I write them because, for me, they're second nature. I have more friends who are gay or who have had a same-sex encounter than who haven't.

What are your hopes for the Queer Etsy Street Team? What brought you to join?
I hope we all form strong bonds with each other. That's what any community should have. Also, I hope we're all able to quit our day jobs. I joined the Queer Etsy team because it felt like a place where I belonged.

See more of mshalston's work at http://www.mshalston.etsy.com

Subversive Art and Craft Fair 11/23

2008-11-19T07:11:00.000-08:00

Team Leader QueenofQueens is hosting a subversive art and craft fair at her tattoo studio Anne Bonney Tattoos and will be handing out promo packs stuffed with Queer Team goodies! The show will feature some of the Tampa Bay area's most unusual, quirky, edgy and risque artists as well as tarot readings, henna tattoos, free refreshments fun and surprises! Thank you to all team members who participated in the big gay grab bag!

Busted Knuckle Photography 1 Day Sale to Fight Prop 8!

2008-10-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone please spread the word! Team member Busted Knuckle Photography is having a special sale at their etsy shop to help fight Prop 8 in California! All items are reduced and all proceeds after cost will go to the guys and gals at No on Prop 8! The sale will be ending at 4am Pacific Time tomorrow so act fast.
More info at their blog : http://bustedknucklephotography.blogspot.com/

Meet Julie of juliejewl AND cherryberrybunny

2008-10-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

here's another Queer Team member interview... keith from fauxsure interviews julie of juliejewl and cherryberrybunny.

what got you started on etsy?

I honestly don't remember where I first heard of Etsy. I was aware of it a long while before I decided to open my shops. Then one day it just seemed like I had procrastinated enough. I opened my juliejewl store first with my art and then decided I would like to sell my jewelry as well and thus cherryberrybunny was born.

what inspires you? where do you get ideas for your work?

Anything and everything inspires me. I love colors and textures, especially in unusual combinations. I'm a mixed media artist so I tend to take a little bit of everything and synthesize it into a new whole. I get inspiration from nature, other artists, fashion, music, poetry. Anywhere I can really.

are you inspired by other art forms/ craft traditions?

As I mentioned in the last question, I can be inspired by just about anything! I have a deep love for art and crafting both. I am in awe of any craft done well. I love knitting/crocheting, DIY clothing, pottery, and jewelry just to name a few.

what do you want people to get out of your work? what do you want to communicate to others through it?

My art is very personal and very symbolic. I hope that people see a little bit of me and also themselves in it. I want my audience to rethink femininity and see it in different ways, as something that can be strong and bold. Other common themes in my work are transformation, layers, growth, flight, knowledge, and dreams.

In my jewelry, mainly I want to cultivate a sense of fun and joy. And maybe a little irreverence now and again.

do you also buy things on etsy? if so, what sorts of things appeal to you?

At this point I have mainly bought supplies on Etsy. However, I have a list a mile long in my favorites of things I would love to buy. I love scarves and hats, gloves and arm warmers, jewelry, bath and body products, and art particularly.

are there other creative projects you are involved in outside of your work on etsy?

What I do creatively outside of Etsy is more of the same, just different venues. I've been working on showing my art and have been in a couple different art shows this past year. I had some journal pages published in "1000 Artist Journal Pages" by Dwan Sokol. Slowly but surely I am also making my way into selling at conferences and craft fairs. Mainly my jewelry but I am also working on getting it together to start selling prints of my art.

do you sell your work anywhere else besides etsy?

I don't have a web site or a physical shop or anything like that yet. I sell outside of Etsy when the opportunity arises, such as someone wanting to buy a painting at an art show or when I am involved in a craft fair.

besides art and crafty stuff, what else do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I'm kind of a quiet person and a homebody. I enjoy spending time with my small group of friends, reading, movies, music, and hanging out with my pet rabbit.

what are your hopes for the queer team?

I hope to create community for queer artists and crafters. For mutual support and also to build a visible queer presence on Etsy. I think there are lots of queer folks involved in art and crafts but it can be difficult for us to find each other or find our audience of queer-positive supporters. After that, sky's the limit!

Friday = Fri-Gay!

2008-10-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

Come and spend Fridays with the Etsy Queers in the Etsy forums! We'll be there all day, promoting our work, talking about gay Etsy life, you know, the usual!

Hope to see you there!

Meet QueenofQueens!

2008-10-05T17:49:00.001-07:00

We will be doing weekly interviews in order to get to know members of the Queer Etsy street team better.

The lovely, quirkly, and multi-talented Michelley QueenofQueens agreed to be the first interviewee. Be sure and visit her Etsy shop when you are done reading!

*************************************************
Who are you? Michelley QueenofQueens. Interdisciplinary artist and conduit of the absurd.

What do you create? Everything. My expansive Sagittarian nature demands that it be so.

How long have you been doing your art/craft? My first conscious memory of creativity was when I was a pre-schooler. I drew Melody of Josie and the Pussycats on my yellow shag carpet with my dad's shaving cream.

What do you like about creating? It keeps homicidal urges at bay.

What do you like about your business? I am very gratified when people make a connection with something that's arrived in the world through me.

How did you find out about Etsy? You know, I really can't remember. It's as if I emerged from a cosmic wormhole one day and there by the grace of divine provenance it was...beckoning.

Do you sell your products anywhere else besides Etsy? I have a little shop in Palm Harbor, FL, Anne Bonney Tattoos, where I hock my wares as I leave permanent marks upon people's skin (some call this "tattooing"). I also have some items available at Pheeney's in Madeira Beach, FL. They have a vast array of artist made items, enough to induce giddiness.

What do you do when you're not creating products for your shop? The aforementioned poking of people's skin. I also design, paint and try to avert existential crises.

What are some other sites where we can find out more about you and what you create? http://www.michelleyqueenofqueens.com

2008-09-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Queer Etsy Street Team blog!