Feature Shop: Sarahndipities

Happy Wednesday! The cheerful personality of Sarah of Sarahndipities really comes through when you read her busy blog and this interview. Wouldn't you just love to have a cup of coffee with her? Learn more about this long-time team member and busy mom of five below! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks.


What is your name?
Sarah Anderson

Where are you located?
I live in Mt. Pleasant, UT.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I a 32-year-old SAHM of five great kids! My oldest is 10, and my youngest is 9 months! My hubby is a 5th grade teacher at our local elementary school. We've been married for 12 years.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
Mostly crocheted hats and accessories...but also some blankets and embroidered dolls.

Embroidered Felt Matryoshka Doll Plushie Pattern

How long have you been crocheting? 
I've been crocheting now for about 11 years!

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was expecting my first baby. I wanted to make her a baby blanket! And the rest is history! :)

OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Tell us the story behind this item: OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan. What inspired you? How did you choose the materials/colors/etc.?
I got a bunch of vintage yarn remnants from my grandma, and there were all these great colors! I couldn't figure out what to do with them for the longest time, but I've always LOVED granny squares so that's what I ended up making! It's truly a one-of-a-kind piece, since the yarns I used aren't available anywhere!

How did your shop get its name? 
I wanted to have my shop include my name and be something clever and memorable. I also wanted to have some flexibility so that I could change what I was selling if I wanted to!

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
It's a lot of work!! For me, I find that making myself a schedule really helps. I try to do 'work' things when the kids are busy with other things, and I also make after school until bedtime hours off limits for 'businessy' type things.

The Meanie - Outdoors Man Crochet Beanie

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms? 
Don't feel bad if you need to take a lot of breaks! It's better to keeping moving along in the right direction, with frequent breaks, than it is to get stressed out and get nowhere!

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"Motherhood is not a hobby, it is a calling. You do not collect children because you find them cuter than stamps. It is not something to do if you can squeeze the time in. It is what God gave you time for." ~ Neal L. Anderson

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
I love looking for unique supplies and, of course, children's items!

Crochet Boho Headband / Headwrap

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently? 
I love so many, but a couple of my current faves are www.etsy.com/shop/claraiuribe and www.etsy.com/shop/annemariesbreiblog

Where can we find you?
Etsy: sarahndipities.etsy.com
Blog: sarahndipities.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sarahndipities1
Twitter: twitter.com/#!/Sarahndipities1
Pinterest: pinterest.com/sarahndipities
Crafsty: www.craftsy.com/craftsyer/115582
Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/people/sarahndipities
Google+: plus.google.com/u/0/116525346303961018630/posts

OOAK - Custom Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Feature Shop: ScissorGoddess

If you've participated in our business card swaps (and you should!), then you've met Nicole of ScissorGoddess. The swaps were her idea, and she's been running and organizing them for about a year now. Meet this busy mom and three and learn more about her creations! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?

Nicole

Where are you located?

Lehighton, PA

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a SAHM of three little girls ages 8, 7, and 2. My time is consumed by my girls, being an active member of the school’s PTO, and helping my neighbors with babysitting. When I can manage to find some free time I love to read, draw, paint, sew, and of course -- craft! 

What do you sell in your Etsy shop?

Different types of accessories for all age ranges: Hair clips and bows, necklaces, and bracelets.

Upcycled Sunny Yellow Vinyl Record Cuff Bracelet

How long have you been crafting? 

I’ve always been inclined to make things for myself but really started crafting in early 2009 when my daughters got interested in hair clips but I felt that the retail stores overcharged for poor quality items. Then it just sort of spiraled from there into other types of accessories.

What or who got you started in your craft? 

YouTube is where I got started with simple clips and bows; once you get the basics down it’s really easy to expand with your own ideas.

Tell us the story behind this item: Upcycled Funky Fashion Necklace. What inspired you? How did you choose the materials/colors/etc.

This necklace is actually up-cycled from three or four other necklaces that I had purchased for myself and were either broken or unworn. I don’t like to waste anything so I disassembled them and played with the parts until I came up with something I thought was pretty and interesting. My middle daughter loves this necklace because it’s her favorite colors and she says it’s very “rockstar.”

OOAK Upcycled Funky Fashion Necklace

How did your shop get its name?

Everything I create starts by being cut; from ribbons and bows to metal for beading, my world revolves around a good pair of scissors. I played around with a bunch of different shop names and when I came up with ScissorGoddess, it just seemed to fit me best.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?

Some days are more difficult than others, any SAHM mom knows what I mean! It’s really about committing to make the time for your shop and all the steps that go into keeping it running. 

Disney Cinderella Shimmery Blue Boutique Bow

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?

A giant calendar and scheduling EVERYTHING! Each year I buy a desk-sized calendar and attach magnets to the back so it can be on the fridge. I have a magnetic locker bin that holds pens and highlighters right next to the calendar so I can jot things down as they come up. There is nothing that happens in this house that isn’t on the calendar! There are only two rules with the calendar: mark events/appointments/etc. as soon as you have the information, and don’t over schedule any day. The calendar is my guideline for maintaining my business just like a job, if a day is too busy then it’s a day off from crafting but I can also clearly see where there’s time to get my “work” in too. It’s a real lifesaver and we’ve been using it for over two years now.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?

No pain, no gain

What do you like to browse for on Etsy?

I love to check out other shops to see what neat things are popular, maybe gain some inspiration for my own shop in the process. Most of my searches are random by keyword, for example if I’m not having a good day I may search “happy” and then just browse from there, it works really well to lift my spirits.

Sassy Schoolgirl Black And Pink Plaid Set Of Two Bows

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?

My longtime favorite has been www.etsy.com/shop/schin. I get inspired to create every time I visit her page.

Where can we find you?

Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/ScissorGoddess

Facebook: www.facebook.com/scissorgoddess

Twitter: twitter.com/#!/Scissor_Goddess

Lost In Wonderland Long Chain And Charm Necklace OOAK

Feature Shop: Fruitful Delights

She's a new member of our team, but Heather of Fruitful Delights has jumped right in! Learn more about this busy, jam-making mom, and then take a moment to browse her delicious shop. It always makes me hungry! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Heather O'Sullivan

Where are you located?
My husband, two boys, and I live in the beautiful little borough of Pennsburg, Pennsylvania.

Tell us a little about yourself. 
I'm a SAHM of two beautiful boys, Connor, who is almost four, and Liam, who is almost two. My husband and I both grew up in New Jersey and moved to Pennsylvania for work, and we absolutely love where we are. We live in a 112-year-old brick Queen Anne Victorian home which we are slowly returning to its beauty when we aren't chasing the kids around, living life, and spending time with our family.

Peach Jam

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
I sell homemade jams and spreads ranging from your classics like blackberry and blueberry to some new flavors such as strawberry-lemonade and peach-blueberry.

How long have you been canning and making jams? 
I have been making jam since the summer of 2009, almost three years now.

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My husband got me started in making jam. His family would go blueberry picking on the borders of their property in the Poconos and a few other places and have been making jam for years, and he wanted the two of us to be able to enjoy it too.

Blackberry Jam

Tell us the story behind this item: Apple Conserve with Raisins and Walnuts. What inspired you? How did you choose the fruits and flavors to include? 
The inspiration behind the apple conserve came because I'd already made a ton of apple butter, apple sauce and pies but had quite a few apples left over. I found a recipe in an old handwritten cookbook and thought it sounded different and was amazed at how those three flavors -- apple, walnut and raisin -- worked so well together! It is excellent by itself on toast or as used in place of mint jelly when served with meats. (There's actually a post on my blog about this flavor...)

How did your shop get its name? 
My shops name took me a good three months to decide upon. I was looking for something simple and descriptive of my craft that hadn't already been taken in the Internet world. Fruitful Delights wasn't actually my first, second or third choice. Instead it was a combination of a few other names I had tried, but once I saw it written out on a label for my products I was hooked.

Homemade Jam Wedding/Party Favor

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
I have a pretty detailed schedule written down for myself which breaks down my day with my boys. It's how I have figured out (for myself) how to keep my house running and my kids content. My craft makes it pretty easy for me to balance my children and my business. Berry picking is a pretty short season, depending on the berry, and my husband does most of the picking on his way home from work. That leaves me time to take care of my boys, and I will make jam in the evenings after they've gone off to bed. Since it is such a short season, I'm usually actively making jam from May until November. I do freeze berries for jam for the four of us so that way I can put my focus on Fruitful Delights jam first.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
As hard as it is, try not to compare yourself or try to be like any other mother. Each one of us has our own way of getting things done, keeping the balance. Some moms, like myself, have to do it all on their own without the help of extended family, which has enough pressure in and of itself. I ask lots of friends how they do it with their kids and over time, I figured out a schedule and routine that worked for my kids. We're each unique as individuals, and it's important to find a routine that works well for you as a family and stick with it.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"One loses many laughs by not laughing at oneself." Sara Jeannette Duncan

Apple Butter

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
When I first joined Etsy, I browsed for earrings. I love earrings but never seem to buy anything for myself. Since I found out we would be welcoming a girl into my husband's family soon, I have been gushing over all of the sweet baby girl items that these amazing people make.

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
Little Millie Boutique

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/FruitfulDelights
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Fruitful-Delights/247204011974407
Blog: fruitfuldelightsonetsy.blogspot.com/

Feature Shop: Altered by Jenn

The items in this week's featured shop, Altered by Jenn, are so festive, I want to plan a party! Meet Jenn, the mom behind the shop. Plus, she's offering 20% off all gift boxes until Dec. 7! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Jenn

Where are you located?
Nebraska

Tell us a little about yourself.
I have been married to my wonderful husband since January 2005 and we have 2 children, our son is 5-1/2, and our daughter is 3. I am on the steering team for the local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). I grew up in the Air Force, so I really have no home, LOL.

Santa Treat Boxes

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop? 
Banners, cupcake and cake toppers, bookmarks, note pads, Tooth Fairy Tins, and more.

How/why did you get started? 
Everyone kept telling me that I needed to start selling my stuff since it was cute.

How long have you been crafting? 
I've been working with paper since 2006.

Dalmatian Mini Banner - I AM 1

What is your favorite thing to make?
Custom orders. Some of the ideas my customers have asked me to create are things that I would have never thought about making.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Paper and ribbon

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Snacks

Reindeer Treat Boxes

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I try to only work on my business during nap time and after the kids go to bed at night. But sometimes you'll find me making designs on my Cricut Gypsy to later cut out.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for? 
Inspiration and gifts

Tooth Fairy Tin - Dark Brown Haired Boy

When you're not crafting, what are you doing? 
Spending time with my family, reading, having coffee with friends.

Where can we find you?
Facebook: www.facebook.com/alteredbyjenn
Etsy: www.alteredbyjenn.com
Blog: alteredbyjenn.blogspot.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/alteredbyjenn

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently? 
Pedestrian Designs (www.etsy.com/shop/pedestrian)

Happy Birthday Banner - Lil Birdie Theme

Feature Shop: Peace, Baby! Batiks

Good morning! Continuing our "meet your leaders" series of shop features, I'd like to introduce myself. I'm Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks; I bring you the feature shop each week and am leader of the SAHM of Etsy Facebook Team. I've really enjoyed learning more about everyone in their feature each week!

What is your name?
Cori

Where are you located?
Waldorf, MD

Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a SAHM to my son, who will be four in December. Currently, he’s obsessed with all things space, so we spend a lot of time playing, building, reading about, watching, and Googling the Space Shuttle, Mars rovers, and various rockets. My husband and I have been married eight years. My professional background is in online journalism, and before my son was born, I worked as a web producer for a nonprofit media watchdog organization in Washington, DC.

Toddler T-Shirt: Blue with Batik Peace Sign,
Long Sleeves (18 months)

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Batik T-shirts and dresses for babies and toddlers. By popular demand, I have expanded to include a few shirts for youth and adults.

How/why did you get started?
I got the idea after my mother-in-law gave me a beautiful batik wrap-around skirt many years ago. Originally, I was going to make and sell wrap-around skirts, but I can’t sew very well, so that idea fizzled after a couple of prototypes. After my son was born, I picked up my wax and dyes again to do a couple of onesies for him, and thought I might be on to something … and here I am!

Baby Girls Dress: Pink with Batik Hearts,
Long Sleeves (12 months)

How long have you been crafting?
I’ve been doing various crafty things all my life. My mom and I are constantly introducing each other to new hobbies. Some stick, others don’t.

What is your favorite thing to make?
I love making boy onesies and shirts. Maybe I’m biased, but I love my truck, train, plane, and helicopter stencils. I also really enjoy working on custom orders. It's fun to do something I know someone will love.

What inspires you to create?
The colors around me, my kid, my friends and family, my husband. They’re always giving me design and color suggestions, or, in my son’s case, placing orders. I just finished a Mars rover T-shirt for him to go with his Halloween costume. He's tickled.

Toddler T-Shirt: Red with Batik Fire Engine,
Long Sleeves (2T)

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Some kind of background noise like music or the television.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Until recently, I really tried hard to work only when my son was asleep or occupied by someone else. Lately he's been boycotting naps -- and not sleeping in -- so it's become a little more challenging. I still try to do the hot wax part of the shirts early in the morning while he's asleep and limit computer time the rest of the day, only checking in for a couple of minutes here and there. My motto since the nap boycott began is to say "yes" more often than "no" when he asks me to play. The shirts will wait; he'll only be this age for a short time.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Jewelry, no doubt about it. I have favorited so many jewelry shops and items it’s not even funny. It’s going to put me in the poorhouse.

Toddler T-Shirt: Purple with Batik Flowers,
Long Sleeves (3T)

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Playing with my son, watching movies or “Glee” with my husband, watching Washington Nationals baseball, scrapbooking, cooking, reading, or wasting time on Facebook.

Where can we find you?
Etsy: http://peacebabybatiks.etsy.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/peacebabybatiks
Twitter: http://twitter.com/peacebabybatiks
Blog: http://peacebabybatiks.com/blog/
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/peacebaby/
Stores: Just Between Kids, Route 5, Mechanicsville, MD; Stoopher & Boots, Amsterdam Avenue, NYC.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
For jewelry, I really love Jewelry by Aimee, Ear Wigs by Liz, Pink Paisley Boutique, and Countrified Pride.

Toddler T-Shirt: Orange with Batik Dinosaur,
Long Sleeves (3T)

Feature Shop: Little Princess Pea

This week, meet Anne, co-captain of our team and the creative mom behind the lovely designs of Little Princess Pea! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Anne

Where are you located?
Naperville, IL (suburb of the windy city :)

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a SAHM to three great kids. My boys are 9 and 5, and my daughter just turned 3. I love to craft, scrapbook, play games, and hang out with family.  Before kids, I was an elementary teacher of the academically bright and gifted, and although I miss teaching in the classroom, my kids provide me with the opportunity to use my skill set everyday! I am lucky that I am able to be at home with my kids and have a supportive husband. I am enjoying my new adventure, which is Etsy, and look forward to expanding this little business I have created!

Flower Loop Bow Halloween Witch

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?You will find hair accessories such as bows clippies and headbands, brooches, and I have added small cards and tags.

How/why did you get started?
I was the mom of two boys before my daughter was born. When she arrived I was introduced to the "children's boutique world". She had a bit of hair, so naturally I wanted to put a bow in it :) I could not do that with my boys! So I bought several high-end hair accessories. I thought to myself, I can make these for a lot less! So began my obsession with making hair accessories :) My style is simple, practical, and fun. My motto is "Just add a little something extra." I feel like a nice small hair clip in my daughter's hair can make all the difference in making an outfit stand out. The same holds true of my paper products: a simple design to express a sentiment.

Felt Rosette Flower Headband Orange and Yellow

How long have you been crafting?I have always considered myself crafty but not necessarily artsy, if that makes sense. As a child I loved doing crafts and working with my hands. Making handmade Christmas ornaments was one of my favorite things to do at school each year. But I was not very good in art class (drawing, painting, etc.). I learned very young how to crochet and do needlepoint too. I don't do those activities as much anymore but would like to revisit that when my kids are a bit older.

What inspires you to create?
My little girl was my inspiration for creating Little Princess Pea, and my boys are my biggest supporters.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
I do like to listen to music. Sometimes my crafting is done when my kids are in bed so catching up on TV shows is something I like to do too :)

Holiday Vintage Patterned Gift Tags

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love to browse for girly clothes for my daughter, but I like to also look for boy items, which are not as prevalent, unfortunately. Perhaps I need to add something for boys to my shop!

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Activities with my kids, including games and reading. My boys are sporty; we have one hockey player and one soccer player, so going to practices and games keep us busy. My daughter started dance class, too.  So we are busy with activities all the time!

Elegant Turquoise Fabric Flower Brooch

Where can we find you? (Etsy link, blog, Facebook, Twitter, stores, etc.)My shop is www.littleprincesspea.etsy.com
My email is littleprincesspea3@yahoo.com
My Facebook page link is http://www.facebook.com/pages/Little-Princess-Pea/157615910935008

What is your favorite item in your shop?
I am enjoying making some new fabric flower hair clips.  More to come in November!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/77899577/black-and-white-polka-dot-round-fabric

Fabulous Fabric Flower Bow Headband

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
I adore Kid's Fashions by Linda (http://www.etsy.com/shop/madly2005?ref=seller_info). She makes quality kids clothing and is super easy to work with. She has made several things for me including some holiday gifts this past Christmas!

Feature Shop: Sweet C's Designs

I love the variety of talents among our team members! The work of this week's feature shop, Sweet C's Designs, adds incredible style to your wedding or home decor. Looking through her shop, I wish I could plan my wedding all over again! Meet Courtney, the creative mom behind it all. - Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Courtney O'Dell

Where are you located?
Just outside of Loveland, Colorado

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a stay at home mom of one, an adorable and feisty little man named Finn. My husband Luke and I have been married since 2009 and I couldn't imagine my life without these two adorable guys in my life! Life with a toddler pretty much revolves around him, but when I am able to get away from my Etsy shop and the house, I love to ski, hike, and visit my favorite place in the world: My parents' condo in Beaver Creek, Colorado. I am spoiled to have a fabulous vacation paradise so close by!

Medium Boo Banner with black bats

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
I carry a variety of wedding decorations and favors, hostess gifts, home decor, and farmers market totes!

How/why did you get started? 
After leaving a high profile political career when my son was born, I was looking for an additional enterprise to add to my new home life. I started making burlap bags -- just like my mom made as wedding favors for my wedding -- and decided to put it out there to see if it would sell. Less than 10 months later, and I am over 200 sales!

Large Ring Pillow With Ribbon and Green Hydrangea

How long have you been crafting? Where did you learn your various skills? 
I've been crafting since I was a kid, but I stopped in college. I loved crafting with my mom as a child -- she used to paint high-end children's furniture for a celebrity frequented shop in L.A. She got me into painting and creating!

What is your favorite thing to make?
I absolutely love making ring pillows and burlap flower cones. I love to work with premium faux floral and make simple fabrics elegant!

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Burlap!!!

Pink Ticking Anchors Away Burlap Farmers Market Tote

What inspires you to create? 
I create for my son, but I take a lot of inspiration from wedding magazines, Pinterest, and my own wedding.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft? 
My rotary tool, paint, and my glue gun!

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
I live for naptime! I actually have created a playplace in my workshop, so my little guy can always be with me when he is awake.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for? 
Fabric. Hands down, I love to browse fabric.

Burlap Bottle Bags "love"

When you're not crafting, what are you doing? 
Playing with my little man, starting my own photography business at www.courtneyodellphotography.com, and designing websites, Etsy banners, and buttons for other Etsy moms!

Where can we find you? 
www.etsy.com/shop/sweetcs
facebook.com/sweetcsdesigns
twitter.com/sweetcsdesigns
www.sweetcsdesigns.com
www.shop.sweetcsdesigns.com

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
My darling friend Sarah McKenna runs a fabulous jewelry shop called Bombshell Bling Jewelry. I adore all of her work!

Burlap Bud Vase and Everyday Flower Bouquet

Feature Shop: Exhausted Creativity Jewelry and EC Rosaries

Happy Wednesday! This week, I'd like you to meet Rachel of Exhausted Creativity Jewelry and EC Rosaries. A creative mom of two, she runs two Etsy shops in her quiet time. She's also an active member of our team -- thanks for your participation, Rachel! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Rachel Rode

Where are you located?
I live outside Chicago in the suburb of New Lenox.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I'm the SAHM of two kids -- Justin (almost 7) and Jenna (3) -- and married 11 years to Paul, the most awesome husband in the world! I've been creative since I was very young, dabblng in pencil and pastel drawing; painting with oils, watercolors, and acrylics; ceramics; clay/pottery; fiber arts; sewing ... I really should have majored in art in college, but I graduated with a degree in communications and a minor in music. I love to sing, and I play the piano. A few years ago, I took my first jewelry class, and I was hooked!

Autumn Color Pendant

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
I have two shops on Etsy: Exhausted Creativity Jewelry and EC Rosaries.

ECJ features classic and fashion jewelry primarily for women, and I also have accessories for men and teens. I like to try my hand at trendy pieces, such as dictionary illustration pendants, robin egg nest pendants and earrings, and wire-wrapped pendants and rings with crystals. But I also enjoy making more classically styled pieces: multistrand beaded necklaces, hand-knotted pearl and gemstone necklaces and bracelets, classic tie tacks, and elegant gemstone drop earrings just to name a few. I guess you could say I make everything from boho to bridal! If it isn't listed on my shop, just ask...I can probably make it!

My other shop, ECR, has Catholic and Anglican rosaries, rosary bracelets, chaplets, tenners and religious jewelry. There I primarily use gemstones, pewter, sterling, and bronze. I make beaded, hand-knotted, and both traditional and modern wire-wrapped pieces.

Christian Prayer Beads (Anglican Rosary)

How/why did you get started?
After I took a couple of jewelry classes at a local shop, I started making jewelry for every occasion I could think of. I gave it as gifts and made pieces for myself. People had such nice things to say about it, and some even encouraged me to sell it. So back in December 2010, I decided to take the plunge and open an Etsy shop. It's a desperately needed creative outlet, and my goal is to be successful enough to support the household with the income.

How long have you been crafting?
I've been making jewelry for the past 4 or 5 years since taking my first class. I spend a lot of time learning new techniques, and the quality of my jewelry has improved immensely, even since opening my shop.

What is your favorite thing to make?
It's hard to say what is my favorite thing to make. Every piece is important to me, and I so thoroughly enjoy the process each time. I like to make rosaries because there is a "formula" to follow, like a recipe. But I also enjoy the dynamic process of taking some gorgeous beads and allowing the creative process to dictate what they become. I make and remake pieces until I am happy with them. I don't sell it if I wouldn't wear it myself.

Octopus Pendant - Vintage Dictionary Illustration

What are your favorite materials to work with?
My favorite things to work with are sterling silver, bronze, and all manner of natural gemstones. I prefer gemstones for their earthy, organic quality. Each gemstone possesses a natural energy that can enhance the finished jewelry piece. I also use a lot of Swarovski crystals in my work because they add shine and "bling" to my work.

What inspires you to create?
I am inspired by nature, personal history, and circumstances when creating my pieces. Nature is the perfect color and texture palette, and nature provides the best resources and materials. By history and circumstances, I mean that I am moved by personal experiences and events around me, especially when creating my rosaries and chaplets. For example, I purchased a beautiful rosary center of Mary nursing baby Jesus, and I was so moved by the image to make a rosary bracelet intended for breastfeeding mothers. It reminded me of the beautiful bond between my children and I that was shared when I was nursing them. There is a lot of emotion in my work!

Aqua Blue Chunky Two Strand Necklace

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
One thing I have to have when I work is relative quietness. I prefer to work while completely alone (hard to do with kiddos!) but the one thing I ask is that everyone keeps the noise down. I think and pray while I work, and it is a personal time of reflection for me.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I am still figuring out the balance of mothering and work! Let me know if anyone perfects it because I don't think it's possible. Mothering IS work, and I feel like mothering is my ultimate call. Any time my attention is away from my children, I feel guilty. I know my children are learning self-sufficiency during times that "mommy can't right now." But I try to keep those times to a minimum, and I work mostly at night ... that's why I called my shop Exhausted Creativity.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I browse Etsy for everything, but my favorite thing is to look for goodies for my kids! In fact, my daughter's birthday is this weekend, and I've been shopping for amigurimi dolls. I love it -- so much fun to browse and get ideas.

Genuine Amethyst, Sterling Silver and
Swarovski Crystal Dangle Earrings

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
When I am not crafting, I am usually doing household chores and doing things with the kids. When I'm not doing those things, I'm squeezing in time to list new items and shop for supplies.

Where can we find you?
I am found many places. My shops are:
www.exhaustedcreativity.etsy.com and www.ecrosaries.etsy.com
I have a facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Exhausted-Creativity-Jewelry/103651389718640
I have a twitter account: @JewelryEC
And I have a blog: www.exhaustedcreativityjewelry.com

My plan is to have pieces available at local businesses and craft shows as well, but that is still undetermined yet.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
My favorite shop on Etsy? I can't pick just one! I love AmyPerrotti - she makes gorgeous prints of matryoshka dolls in all ethnicities. (I have six of them in my daughter's room!) StorybookStyles makes wonderful costumes and clothing for kids. And I just discovered EvesLittleEarthlings with her Waldorf-inspired creations. From a creative standpoint, I am very fond of Watchings, PureOXFaith, TaviaSanza, SunnySideUpStudio, TuckooandMooCow, PrayerBedes, KSickles, FlorLarios, and Skrynka.

Feature Shop: Little Tadpole Designs

Happy Wednesday! It's time for another shop feature, and this week I'd like to introduce you to Heidi of Little Tadpole Designs! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Heidi

Where are you located?
Eastern Ontario, Canada. We've got a small log house on five acres of woods ... but we'll soon be moving to cottage country for my husband's work and have our hopes up that we'll be getting a place with more land or on the water.

Tell us a little about yourself.
My husband and I have been married for nine years and have two beautiful children. Our son just turned 2 and our daughter is 6 months. We also share our home with a bit of a menagerie, including our first "big baby," our 8-year-old Great Dane, four kitties, three snakes, a turtle, plus mice and fish. It's a pretty "lively" place!

Before becoming a mom, I did outdoor education and law enforcement. We always intended that when we started our family that I would be a stay-at-home mom, and I'm so glad! I'm a Christian, love babywearing, use cloth diapers on both my kiddos, and am completely addicted to sugar! I look forward to taking on homeschooling when the time comes, and we'd like to have a little hobby farm.

Squishy Soft Chenille Cuddle Blankie - "Checker Spots"

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
My shop is geared mostly toward babies and toddlers. The items I make are inspired by my own children, and because they are just babes themselves, that's what fits for now! I love doing custom orders whenever possible ... and make clips for soothers, mittens, and nursing covers or bibs that people can choose from about 50 different ribbons. I also make hair clips that can be custom designed as well! It's fun seeing what people will choose when given the freedom to create for themselves.

Some of my favorite creations are my Snap Belts for preschoolers because they are just so practical and effective for kids like my son who has no bum to hold his pants up and my Cuddle Blankies, which are squishy soft and absolutely adored by my own children.

My newest creations will start to be listed in June as I make them. I've been working on something very special for my baby girl. I'll give you a hint: they have little hands and little heads, are cute and crocheted and colourful, and no little girl should be without one!

Custom Binky Leash SPECIAL - "Buy A Pair"

How/why did you get started?
Initially it was because I needed a soother clip for my son and couldn't find one that I really liked, so I bought what I needed and made it myself (along with enough ribbon and clips to make LOTS more!). Next, I made him a blankie out of chenille because he loved the texture. And the rest, well it all followed along the same lines of needing/wanting something and just saying "I can make that!"

How long have you been crafting?
I've always liked making "things." I love drawing and painting and doing crafts. As a child I would create stuff for myself, like cutting "food" out of paper and string for my pretend restaurant, or making a "fireplace" out of tissue paper and a flashlight to have inside my blanket fort. Let's just say that through the years I've graduated to more complex items, but at the heart of it I'm still just enjoying "makin' stuff."

I like variety and I don't have a lot of patience (or time for that matter!) for big intricate things right now, so my focus is really on making things that are basically simple and practical, but with a bit of flair and extra thought and professionalism that makes them "different" from other things you can find out there. I anticipate that as my children grow, so will the range of things that I create, and that is an exciting thought! I actually like very much to sew and paint and hope eventually to add some of that to my creations.

Snap Belt for Preschooler- "StopLight"

What is your favorite thing to make?
Absolutely my Cuddle Blankies! They are just SO soft and wonderful and I've never seen any others like them. The chenille is thick and lovely and each and every one I make makes me think about the baby that will get to snuggle with it, and who can't think about snuggling babies without smiling!

What inspires you to create?
Definitely my children. Because I first make the items to meet their specific needs, I really find that even the simple creations deserve a lot of thought. Little features like the placement and usability of the snaps take on extra meaning when you are creating something for your own.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Oooo... that's a tough question! I want to say something practical like a candle for sealing ribbon or a measuring tape... but I think what I really need with me is "noise." Whether the tv or radio, I like to work to the sound of something in the background (preferably not the "Cars" movie for the six billionth time, but sometimes you take what you can get!).

Cuddle Blankie & Binky Leash Baby Boy Gift Set

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
It's a challenge, definitely. I try to do as much prep work at once as I can. Cutting and sealing ribbon and elastic, organizing buttons and embellishments so they are quick to grab, rolling yarn, and even cutting the chenille so it's ready for the sewing machine. I find having those things done ahead of that actual order really helps a lot. I'm still working on balancing my time with the business online, but trying to keep to a schedule is a step in the right direction. Naptimes help, especially when the little ones sleep at the same time, and my husband is a big help too in the evenings after our son is in bed and he takes care of our daughter so I can get some things done.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Right now I love looking at clothes for my daughter, especially crocheted sets! Toys are another favorite: wooden toys or crocheted or felt/fabric. Lots of fun to look at and see all the creativity! Some of my favorites in both those categories of items are right here in the SAHM of Etsy team!

Crocheted Baby Doll "Marcy"

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
With a two year old and a six month old AND both in cloth diapers? Laundry.

Where can we find you?
www.littletadpoledesigns.etsy.com
www.littletadpoledesigns.ca
www.facebook.com/LittleTadpoleDesigns
"The Little Closet" Consignment Store in beautiful Merrickville, Ontario.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Definitely CozyTeaTreasures! This shop is run by a young, Christian girl who is a very talented seamstress! Her tea cozies are absolutely beautifully made and she is a true pleasure to work with! I ordered several for Christmas gifts last year and, honestly, I try to think of more people to buy one for because I loved them so much!

Feature Shop: Little Owl's Nest

Happy June! You might remember Angie of Little Owl's Nest from our recent shop name contest. She shared the sweet story of how she named her shop and won! This week, meet Angie and find out more about her handmade business! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Angie

Where are you located?
Suburbs of Kansas City

Tell us a little about yourself.
Married to my husband Sean and mom to Callie (2). I have a BFA in Interior Design from KU and worked as a Corporate Interior Designer for 12 years.

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Custom crib sets and changing pad covers and nursing pillow covers in every color

Changing Pad Cover in Lemon Yellow

How/why did you get started?
I was laid off in 2009 due to economy. Architectural projects are the first thing to get canceled in a bad economy and last to come back. I knew it was going to be awhile before the jobs came back and decided to try Etsy while on unemployment.

How long have you been crafting? What got you started sewing?
My grandmother was a quilter and knitter so I guess I have the genes for it. Intro to Sewing was a required class in middle school, and I loved it. My first job was in fabric store and I worked at various places all through high school and college, so sewing has always been part of my life.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Halloween costumes for my daughter. So far she has been a Wookie (part of a family costume) and Dorothy from Wizard of Oz.

What is your favorite kind of fabric to work with?
Good quality quilting cottons -- the colors are bright and the patterns are usually pretty true to grain. I'm a ripper.

Nursing Pillow Cover - Citrus Orange

What inspires you to create?
All the fun fabrics available. New stuff is always coming out. I love putting together patterns for crib set ideas. True up is a favorite blog to read.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
My scissors. No matter how many pairs I have they always seem to be on the other side of the room.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I try to involve my daughter while I work and let her "help" if I'm trying to get something done during the day like package or cut stuff out. Mostly I work during nap time and after she goes to bed. I have her in preschool one day a week, and Saturday morning is a work day for mommy. Friday evenings are a no-work zone so I can spend time with my husband.

Dino Baby Bedding 5 piece Crib Set

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
My husband and I decided instead of getting each other gifts for our wedding anniversary, we would buy art. We both wanted to buy original good quality pieces but that can be tricky to fit into a budget. Once a year we get to splurge. Etsy is a great source for artwork that's not out of reach for us.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Planning a garden or re-doing the house. Both are fixer-uppers. I'm weird, I enjoy yardwork and painting.

Sock Monkey Baby Bedding - Bumper, Skirt, Sheet

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/littleowlsnest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LittleOwlsNest

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
www.etsy.com/shop/Twinwoodcarving -- He hand carves wood bowls -- and he's a stay at home dad!

Feature Shop: My Love Bug Baby

Good morning! We have some wonderful active members on our team. Today, I'd like to introduce you to Monika of My Love Bug Baby. She helps out with Facebook and the blog, and helps keep our team discussions active. Thanks for all you do, Monika! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Monika

Where are you located?
Orange County, CA

Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up in a big family with five sisters; we are all very close. My husband is from Michigan; we met nine years ago. We have two children - daughter Ryan (3 1/2 years old) and son Parker (9 months old). My husband owns a flooring business and I stay home with the kids.

Sensory Blanket - Jungle Animal Print

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Useful items from moms, babies & kids made with colorful prints

How/why did you get started?
I have always loved crafting but have had more time to do it after becoming a SAHM when my son was born last year.

Flannel Baby Blanket - Lots of Hearts print

How long have you been sewing? When did you first learn?
I first learned to sew when I was about 10 years old. I stated by hand sewing clothing for my dolls from scrap fabric my mom gave me.

What is your favorite thing to make?
I'm working on pretend play items for baby dolls right now, I love making miniatures!

Pink & Green Layered Flower Clip or Pin

What inspires you to create?
My kids!

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Embroidery scissors to cut threads

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I only sew/create when the kids are asleep or with their dad. I try to keep the two separate so that I can give both total attention.

Diaper and Wipes Clutch with Pop-up Wipes Case

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love looking at soaps, but wish that I could smell them!

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Spending time with my family, hopefully outdoors. We all love to spend time outside. Or baking -- we love to eat too!

Bib & Burp Cloth Set - Dog and Dots print

Where can we find you?
Etsy shop: www.mylovebugbaby.etsy.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mylovebugbaby
Twitter: @MyLovebugBaby
Blog: www.mylovebugbaby.blogspot.com

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
ApplesNAmos, she has the cutest wooden toys!