The Neutral Zone

This week I will be featuring, four BESTeam members and their talents! As I thought about what kind of a theme to choose, well, that was easy. This week's theme is "The Neutral Zone"!

These are the four splendid shops I will be featuring. Their Etsy Shop names connect directly to their shop for your convenience!

JewerlybyJaynemarie

BeaderBubbe

Gmaellen

and KCDragonfly

Neutrals, just the word alone makes me smile. It's often what I wear, and without a doubt, a majority of what I design (I really need to get out of my box!). In addition, it is a safe, contemporary shade to gift, and to wear as well!

So, it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone that I would choose this shade, in the beginning of Autumn. Though it is a shade of color one can wear all year long. 

My first "Neutral" choice are these classic, splendid Pearl Earring pair offered by JewelrybyJaynmarie.

Classic Dove Gray Earrings

Jaynemarie and I have been friends for a good two years, so, I can honestly tell you that the time and care she puts into each piece is great. I also know that she doesn't compromise standards and the quality that goes into each of her designs.
In addition,  she has taken numerous courses at jewelry shops and schools to improve her skills and keep up to date in knowledge of jewelry design and metal smithing.  

Jaynemarie's specialty though is "Wedding Jewelry". She designs for brides, bridesmaids, and other members of the wedding party. So, if your looking for a designer of wedding jewelry, I highly suggest stopping here first. I know that she will be happy to speak with you as well as work with you for your special day!

Jaynemarie's Shop also has many jewelry pieces available now. You may find that perfect jewelry piece already made!

With her skills in jewelry design, your sure to find a gorgeous piece of jewelry, and for every budget as well.

You can find Jaynemarie here too!: Facebook - Twitter - Blogger.


Next up is this intriguing neutral bracelet offered by Beader Bubbe . 

Crazy Agate Beige Bracelet

 I am not quite sure how Agnes finds time to design jewelry, being a mom to five children, a grandmother to six, with number seven arriving any day now, but she does! Agnes loves crafts, and is especially fond of jewelry designing.

When she retires, she hopes that she can spend more time in creating jewelry.

Some of Agnes's favorite materials to design jewelry with are: polymer clay, and glass. She also designs with gemstones, clay beads, and shells. So, whatever your favorite material is to wear, you'll have a variety of different pieces to choose from at Beader Bubbe. 

You can find Beader Bubbe here too!: Facebook - Twitter - Blogger 
.

My third handmade "Neutral" product is featured by Gmaellen

Ellen features crocheted products. I am not talking about the big blankets or bed covers either. To me, Ellen designs FABULOUS crocheted  products! Take for instance this enchanting item to the left. As I am typing this, I am also trying to figure out where I could place this in my house. 

Heirloom Crochet Lace Border

Ellen grew up watching both grandmothers crochet. She states that: "My fondest memories are of watching both of my grandmothers creating so many beautiful things as I grew up. They both have given me so much inspiration".

So, go and check out this charming shop on Etsy! 

With the holidays approaching it would certainly be to your advantage, because not only does Ellen feature crocheted products in her store, she also carries wine charms, a fabulous item to go with her crocheted wine carriers, and also a bit of beaded jewelry!

You can find Gmaellen here as well!: Wordpress - Facebook - Twitter

For my last product, I chose this enchanting product from KCDragonfly!

Wedding Parasol

Personally,  I always love knowing how a shop got its name, so I am going to share how Kristine chose her shop name. 

Kristine choose KCDragonfly for her Etsy Shop name because she is somewhat similar to a dragonfly's behavior. In the way that a dragonfly never rests, they are always on a mission searching for something new. 

Kristine is on a quest to perfect her sewing skills, whether it be a new purse and even an umbrella. She knows that she will have perfected her sewing when the buyer cannot resist her handmade products!

I can totally relate to that analogy, I think most sellers could. Although I have not heard of that analogy before, quite frankly, I find it unique! Just like Kristine, and all of her items she carries in her shop. I think unique is the perfect word for her, and her shop!

Not only does Kristine carry these lovely umbrella's, she has a large selection of Halloween items in her shop now. I think you should go and take a look at her Goth Stockings as well, they are definitely very cute!

You can find Kristine here too!:  Blogger - Twitter - Facebook - Flickr - Gallery - Main Website

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team's goal is to provide marketing support for each others Etsy and Facebook Fan pages to further this goal. Our team also shows support by offering free advertising for each other. We are a very dynamic, active group and we are now accepting new members!
The BESTeam is so much more then writing a feature every week! Its a team of caring and talented crafters on Etsy.
Please click the link above to find out more about this great team, and consider joining this team.

The BESTeam featured "Theme" for this week is Ancient Cultures. I have gathered a few incredible finds from three of my team mates, that reflect this Theme. I hope you like them as well as I do!

First off is this Vintage Chinese Wood Panel.

Vintage Chinese Wood Panel

This beautifully illustrated piece reveals three men, whom appear to either be "Wise Men" or "Religious Leaders".  Although this piece appears to show slight wear, you can still see the high detail and intricate craving on this exceptional piece. This exceptional piece is available through redemptionart.
Redemptionart is full of Vintage, Hand Made, and Up-cycled Art from Hawaii. The owner of this fine shop is Connie. She purchases these items for her Etsy Shop from neighborhood garage sales to high end estate sales, carefully selecting each item herself. Connie has a wide range of various items, so I would encourage you to take a look at all this shop has to offer.
To keep informed of redemptionart on Etsy,  you can follow on FaceBook - Blog - Twitter

For coin collectors and women, my next "Ancient Cultural" piece is quite exceptional in depicting the Roman Era. This striking Necklace strung with White Freshwater Pearls includes an ancient coin of Constantius II - Roman Emperor who ruled in 337-361 A.D.

Freshwater Pearl and Ancient Coin Necklace

This ancient piece is offered from riorita.
Irith, the owner of this Etsy Shop, is quite an exceptional jewelry designer. This shop offers extraordinary designs in Gold and Sterling Silver, perfect for the distinctive wearer of fine jewelry.  In addition to this Ancient Coin Necklace, Irith incorporates the use of other gemstones and semi precious gemstones as well. Besides Handmade Necklaces, Irith's designs include jewelry pieces in Bracelets, Bangles, Rings, and Pendants.
You will definitely have to check out her shop when looking for exquisite jewelry.
You can Etsy's riorita on her Blog -Twitter.

 My last "Ancient Culture" find are these marvelous and very fashionable Handmade Silver Swirl Hoop Earrings. These Earrings are offered by Jaynemarie, of JewelrybyJaynemarie.

Handmade Silver Swirl Hoop

 Now, some of you, like me, may wonder what a "Spiral" would have to do with "Ancient Culture".  Well after a quick "Google Search", I found that the Spiral was a design that the Romans and Greeks used in their temple columns. They also used this design in their vases. Even the Celts painted their bodies with Spirals in blue dye, to intimidate their enemies during battle. So, just with this little bit of information, these Earrings are certainly valid for "Ancient Cultures".
I do have to add that these are not the only style that Jaynemaire offers.
Jaynemarie's specialty is custom design and wedding jewelry, and I can assure you her designs are stunning!
I certainly would encourage you to stop by Jaynmarie's Etsy Shop first, for your (or friend, relative) wedding accessories before looking elsewhere!
Besides JewelrybyJaynemarie on Etsy you can find her on FaceBook -  Twitter - Blog

Lastly, please keep in mind that these are pieces would make wonderful gifts for people who are into the study of cultures around the world and the artistry associated with them.
Remember Christmas will be here before you know it!

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team's goal is to provide marketing support for each others Etsy and Facebook Fan pages to further this goal. Our team also shows support by offering free advertising for each other. We are a very dynamic, active group and we are now accepting new members!
The BESTeam is so much more then writing a feature every week! Its a team of caring and talented crafters on Etsy.
Please click the link above to find out more about this great team, and consider joining this team.

BESTeam Feature

This is the third time I have written this. Somehow I touch something on my laptop, and everything I type goes away. This is so frustrating..........
This well be a very short feature, have to hurry before this goes away as well, big GRRRRRRRS,  ha-ha!
So, this week I will be featuring "Handmade items that remind me of Autumn". Now don't laugh, its a valid excuse being that Friday was the first day of Fall. It really isn't because I like Fall, and its color, I'm fibbing, you know that right?
It is valid though.............
Three Etsy Shops, three BESTeam Member's, six gorgeous Autumn pic's!
My first Shop feature is co-owned by Debbi, Captain of the BESTeam, and her daughter Mandy. 
Their Etsy Shop is named: ourhometoyours.
Two charming Autumn finds:

Handmade Vintage Mink Jacket

Definitely something to keep you warm. Quite frankly, I love this jacket. I always have, ever since I met Debbi and Mandy, and their shop.
My second Autumn pic, easy, take a look at this!

OOAK Blood Red Choker

You could easily sport the necklace and the jacket at the same time, perfect! Find more about this shop on their Blog, and on FaceBook!
Second shop, and enchanting, is Poison Garden.
First Autumn find, is this lovely Sun Catcher!

Garden Fairy Bohemian Victorian Elven Fairy Sun Catcher

I think this Sun Catcher is not only sweet, I certainly love its title!
Second shop find is this splendid jewelry piece:

Victorian Steam-punk Mona Lisa Choker

I have to say I really love the colors of the ribbon, and honestly, Mona Lisa is so classic!
Read more about this shop on their Blog, and follow Poison garden on FaceBook!

Third Shop, final Shop, almost there, phew! ElizabethMDJewelry
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, these earrings!

Cranberry Red Drop Earrings

I haven't seen them before, they were just listed yesterday. I have to say, Cranberry is definitely one of  MY favorite colors, even if it isn't Autumn.
And this necklace should just be a staple in every jewelry collection. What could be more perfect then a leaf? A Silver Leaf!

Sterling Silver Leaf Imprint Necklace

You can also read Elizabeth's Blog and "like" her on FaceBook!

I hope you take a look into each of these shops, whether its browsing or shopping.
All these shops are charming!

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team's goal is to provide marketing support for each others Etsy and Facebook Fan pages to further this goal. Our team also shows support by offering free advertising for each other. We are a very dynamic, active group and we are now accepting new members!
The BESTeam is so much more then writing a feature every week! Its a team of caring and talented crafters on Etsy.
Please click the link above to find out more about this great team, and consider joining this team.

My BESTeam Feature

I have to apologize for being so late this week. I don't know where the time went. I do know that when I work, because it isn't very often, it really throws me off schedule. And it isn't just work this week either, for the past four weeks, I have been in terrible pain due to my knees. Besides walking, my knee pain has definitely affected other areas of my life, including difficulty in keeping focused.
Enough about me, that's certainly not the reason for this post.

My BESTeam Feature for this week is ardentreverie. 
Ardentreverie consists of two sisters who design unique handmade accessories in apparel, jewelry, and hair.
I have to say this shop is certainly CHIC!
Just as I was looking at this shop, my son, Marty, was looking over my shoulders, (I really dislike anyone doing that) and saying, "scroll up, see that? Thats POPULAR at my school, mom". This is the handmade product that he showed me.

Savannah Feather Earring

Then Marty said, "they wear these in their hair too, mom". I thought cool, thanks Marty for sharing. My son he is my worst critic, when HE likes something, its definitely something. Need a cool Christmas gift? Its right above! Perfect for your tween, teen, young adult.
If your looking for Hair Accessories, this shop has them too! This one below is my favorite, although ardentreverie has many more!

Cedar Roses Headband

I think this headband is just gorgeous! Perfect color combination, woodsy, earthy, and organic! Not much more you could ask for.
Most of you know that my employment is outdoors. Meaning that I am subjected to all outdoor elements, which I don't care for, but it pays well. I have learned to layer my clothing well. One of my favorite accessories are handmade beanies and scarfs. This shop has many scarfs to choose from. It was really hard for me to decide which one I liked best, but I went with this one!

Denim Blue Knit Cowl

Not only do I think the color is FAB, but I don't have to worry about it staying wrapped around. And if you walk all day, bend all day like I do, then you will appreciate this aspect as well!

So, if you are looking for cool, chic, and unique gift this year, or even something for yourself. I really think this would be an excellent place to make this shop your first stop!
You can find ardentreverie here!

Etsy

FaceBook 

ArdentReverie.com
Twitter

ardentreverie and I are members of the BESTeam!

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team's goal is to provide marketing support for each others Etsy and Facebook Fan pages to further this goal. Our team also shows support by offering free advertising for each other. We are a very dynamic, active group and we are now accepting new members!
The BESTeam is so much more then writing a feature every week! Its a team of caring and talented crafters on Etsy.
Please click the link above to find out more about this great team, and consider joining this team.

Look for a new format in how the BESTeam does their features, beginning next week! 

I am so excited to see the results and how you like it as well. 

Enjoy, be good to others and yourself!

BESTeam Feature

Well it is nice to be back and active on the BESTeam again, even if it is amongst changes.

In addition, since I have not written much on my Blogger lately, I will have to get back into the swing of things, as well as dealing with the problems I encounter on Blogger every time I post, but never mind all of that, I am happy just to be back!

This week, my BESTeam Feature is an easy one though, and I am very thankful for that. Offthewallexpressions is an easy shop to write about because their products are not only unique and very cool, but also are this shop owner’s, Mick and Tina. 

Offthewallexpressions offers Vinyl Wall Art, which is fitting for any wall you would like to express yourself, as well as Chalkboard Decals. Now how unique is that?  
Mike and Tina add that their "Vinyl Wall Art" can Amuse, Inspire, Decorate, Organize, Make a Statement and Express your Personality!"

With that being written, I thought how sweet would it be writing on these Chalkboard Speech Balloons? I have a bizillion ideas for these, but since I don't have enough room in this little square, I will settle for "perfect" for a Wedding Reception, a Birthday Party, an Office Get -Together. You get the point!
Where could you find putting these?

Chalkboard Speech Balloons,vinyl decals

You certainly could use these for many places in your home or your office.  
And Offthewallexpressions has several different styles available in these Chalkboard Decals, I am sure you will find one, maybe two to suit your taste. Just click here, and it will bring you to that specific section of their shop!

My second choice of "Fabulous Finds" in this featured shop, is this item. 

 

PersonalizedFamily Tree Vinyl Decal

I think that this Decal would not only look good in your home, but would be an excellent "Gift" choice as well. And as you know Christmas may be a few months away but somehow it just creeps up on us! 
Think of newlyweds, grandparents, your own parents, and actually this would be a great choice as a gift for anyone! Think of the look on their faces as they open your gift. Now that look will be "priceless"!

My last product feature is for those who are Christian, and want to express that. I think this Vinyl Wall Decal is beautiful, and filled with love. And honestly, I just love the quote!

Gods Masterpiece Vinyl Wall Lettering Decal

I could easily imagine this Decal in my home, and I already have the perfect spot for it. Although I want EVERYTHING in this shop. This is at the top of my "Wish List" now!

I could feature so many more items, because there are so many to choose from. But, now its your turn! If your looking for gift ideas, home decor, and something as personable as you,  I cannot express to you enough to start your shopping with offthewallexpressions. 

Not only can I assure you that you will find a huge selection, something for everyone, home, and office, but their prices are very fair, thus keeping you within budget!

You can find this Etsy Shop here
"Like" them on FaceBook
Follow their Blog, for great reading! Personally I love reading their posts!

Offthewallexpressions and I are members of the BESTeam, Boosting Etsy Shops Team 

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team's goal is to provide marketing support for each others Etsy and Facebook Fan pages to further this goal. Our team also shows support by offering free advertising for each other. We are a very dynamic, active group and we are now accepting new members!
The BESTeam is so much more then writing a feature every week! Its a team of caring and talented crafters on Etsy.
Please click the link above to find out more about this great team, and consider joining this team.

Take notice!

Its an early Saturday afternoon, and what could be better then a few quick notes on a couple of fantastic Etsy Shops?
Not only are these Etsy Shops full of wonderful and fabulous handmade products, the owners of these two shops are two of some of the nicest woman I have been blessed with knowing. Well, you know the kind of knowing I mean. We are close online friends, who share a love of designing and other personal information we wouldn't just tell anyone.
My first short feature is on ~ Our Home To Yours ~ This shop has a diverse selection of handmade products which include jewelry and hand knitted hats and scarfs, which are going to be perfect for the arrival of Autumn. In fact here in Benicia, California, today I saw my first limb of a large tree with leaves of red, orange, and yellow. The perfect sign that tells me that Autumn is here already. I simply smiled, after all Autumn is my favorite season!
A mother and daughter team own this shop and while, daughter Mandy designs and hand knits scarfs and hats, Debbi, mom, designs jewelry.
Here is one of my favorite scarfs, because it looks so warm and comfy:

 Crochet Skinny Eternity Scarf in Creamy Beige

I think this scarf is also the perfect color and being that perfect color,  I would think that you could wear this plush scarf often, making it versatile as well!
The second item I would like to share with you is this one below.  Not only do I think it is actually the fabulous necklace in the world, but to me, its also Gothic. The first time I saw it, I thought, now "Why didn't I think of that,"? And then I tweeted it!

OOAK Blood Red Heart Choker

Debbi and Mandy have many other items in their shop besides jewelry, scarfs, and hats!
I really think that you should go and check out the handmade products I listed, but the shop as a whole as well! You can click on the titles of the products themselves to enter into their shop, or you can click right here!

The second shop I would like to say a few words about is MysticWynd. Karen is the owner of this Etsy Shop. She is also Captain of the BESTeam, that I am a team member off, and so is Debbi from Our Home to Yours for that fact. MysticWynd offers so many handmade products, its would be difficult to list them all. Her products range from jewelry to book markers, and she even a handful of sweet accessories for hair!
Here is my first favorite. I think this bracelet is quite incredible, full of detail. What I like most about this bracelet is the silver metal link the wraps around the Gemstone setting. Take a closer look at this bracelet by clicking on the title!

Seraphinite and Metal Cuff

My second choice is for ones who love the sand and sea, now that shouldn't surprise you! MysticWynd also offers this splendid bracelet.

Oceanus Charm Bracelet with Pearls, Shells, Crystal, and Glass

Most of you shouldn't be surprised that I had to show a handmade product that had to do with the ocean due to my love for it!
I also have to tell you that MysticWynd is having a HUGE SALE, so now would be an excellent time to shop. You could really get a nice start on your Holiday shopping here because MysticWynd has something for everyone!
You can see the reason for this sale in her "Shop Announcement"!

So, if you don't really have any plans for this weekend, put this on your list, and take some time to check out these two shops!
I am very sure you will be able to cross off a few items of  "gifts to get" of your Holiday Shopping List!

Enjoy your weekend, drive careful and be safe :)
Cathy

New Fall Jewelry!

I am so thrilled with my new Fall / Autumn Jewelry, that I am a bit besides myself. And even though it is not extravagant, filled with detail, sometimes the best things in jewelry are simple, such as life.

Besides, Fall or as some would call it, Autumn IS my favorite season, its colors truly burst out of the seams.

So, with the array of colors to choose from, I could easily say that I am ecstatic! And since I have been collecting Fall colored Gemstones for some time now, I am more then ready to create.

Over this past weekend, I made individualized listings for my Acorn Pearl Earrings. As far as I am concerned these should be selling here quickly now. I also designed a Vintaj Brass Oak Leaf Necklace to accessorize the earrings. I only have the Czech Glass Pumpkin color available right now, but I plan on doing all the other colors soon. Here is a picture of the Vintaj Brass Oak Leaf Necklace. 

Fall Vintaj Brass Leaf with Pumpkin (Orange) Czech Glass Beads

Personally, I love this leaf, it is very elaborate and quite distinctive. And to keep "true to nature" I designed this Necklace to include an Oak Leaf, because, Acorns do come from Oak Tree's. Since we are speaking about Acorns, below are the Acorn Earrings that you can complement this necklace with!

Autumn Pumpkin Orange Acorn Earrings

In combining these two jewelry pieces, I thought that this would be a traditional and delightful set!

It would be really nice to read what you thought, so please feel free to comment below. 

I also have these earrings in a Swarovski Antique Brass Pearl Bead and Vintage Gold Pearl Bead as well.

I am including the photos with the links underneath:

Autumn Earrings Acorn Capped Antique Brass

Fall, Swarovski Vintage Gold Crystal Pearl Acorn Earrings

I have yet to make matching necklaces for these two colors, but I plan on ordering the materials for these very soon!

As of now, these are my newest earrings for Fall / Autumn. I have a lot more items that need listings, and photos. Quite frankly I should be taking photos and listing items, then making jewelry. Its just that making jewelry is just so much funner! 

I have also added a new "Section" to my Etsy Shop" titled: Fall...Autumn...Seasonal,just click on that title, and it will take you right to that section!

To view all of my handmade jewelry, just click here! 

Remember, if you ever have a question, you can always convo me on Etsy, or find me on Facebook!

Before I go, I would like to share this necklace. I will be listing this piece soon!

Another one of my Favorites! But then again ALL my Fall / Autumn Jewelry pieces are, LOL

And if I have kept your attention this far, then I hope you will take advantage of this coupon offer! For a discount of 15%, please use the code BLOG15 when checking out!

This coupon will expire September 6th, 2011

Enjoy,

Cathy