No More Blue Mondays!

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.

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!

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.

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!!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!