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!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
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.
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.
Friday, June 4, 2010
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!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Team Challenge: RED!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Our Own Wildheather Was Featured In a Blog!
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
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!!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Spotlight on Queer Team member Sprightly Strands Boutique
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! :)
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! :)
Monday, April 5, 2010
Spotlight on Queer Team member Jerise
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.
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.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Cool giveaway from theenchantedcupboard!
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.
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.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Queer Team Working with Trevor Project!
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!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Spotlight on Queer Team member BackseatBettyBoutik
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!
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!
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