Wednesday Wishlist: Circle of Friends

It's been a while since I posted a Wednesday Wishlist...heck, it's been a while since I posted at all (shame on me!)...so today I'd like to pay tribute to some of the fine, talented folks that can be found in my Circle of friends on Etsy.  As of last count I've added about 90 artisans to my Circle and am always on the hunt for more.  I'll dedicate more Wishlists to these fabulous friends of mine but for now, I present you with a random selection of pure awesomeness.  To learn more about the featured item and the artist's shop, right click on the shop links to open up a new window. 

Handmade Coptic Bound Journal with Skeleton Key

in Pale Green by Thenibandquill

Fine Art Photo Print ~ Nesting in Numbers

by TheGinghamOwl

Magnetic Denim Pocket ~ Leopard Spots

by ItsSoSue

 Handmade Knit Hat ~ The Seed Beret in Citron Yello

by pixiebell

Brown Trout Coffee Mug Etched Glass

by bradgoodell

Hand Felted Light Green Scarf/Shawl

by avivaschwarz

Mini Men Crayons

by LilDoodlers

Light My Fire Hand-dyed Wool Yarn

by dye2spin

Dirty Bugs Cocoa Butter Cold Process Soap

by BuzzPlanet

Small Blue Ceramic Watercan

by NicePots

Discover This ~ The Curious Pug

I am so excited to present the newest featured indie artisan in the Discover This Series, Alycia of The Curious Pug on Etsy. Located in California, Alycia creates some of the most unique and adorable magnets, cozys, ornaments, and brooches made from felt and clay, and even has a few glass tile creations, too. One look at this shop and you'll be squealing with utter delight! Alycia has officially been on Etsy since November of 09, but has been creating all her life. She's pretty much self taught in her craft, with her only real "training" coming from her mom who taught her how to sew when she was a kid. After graduating from an xray training program in June of 09, she had (and still has) a hard time finding work so she took matters into her own two hands and started up The Curious Pug in November of 09. It keeps her busy, and she says "it's been wonderful having others enjoy my work." What's not to enjoy?


When asked where she gets inspiration for her designs, she says "Basically from things that I think are cute or colorful. And I get lots of ideas that just pop in my head at night as I'm trying to fall asleep." I can certainly relate to that!


Alycia is glad Etsy has given her the opportunity to open her shop since selling her designs "has always been something I've been interested in doing but never got around to because of busy schedules and time constraints. But as of now, I can focus fully on my shop and creating more items for customers." She says a whole new floodgate of creativity has opened up since she started her shop, thanks to the wonderful Etsy community. "Anytime I've had a question or concern the forums would be my number one spot for answers. Everyone has been so helpful and insightful so to them I am grateful."

If you're looking for something unique and different, or maybe even a little quirky, then that is what you'll get from Alycia. So head on over to The Curious Pug and check out all the offerings!

Be sure to follow Alycia's blog for all the latest news.

Special thanks to Alycia for participating in the Discover This Series on the JMO Blog.

Get Stoned! First in the "Discover This" Series

I am very proud to present "Discover This," a special series here on the JMO blog where I will be showcasing undiscovered artists that can be found on http://www.etsy.com/ as well as other places on the web.

First up is Marni, a very talented Midwestern artist who describes herself as a "self-taught mixed-media craftsperson. " Says Marni: "I have always loved creating things, from crafts to cooking. I take inspiration from many places, especially nature, to come up with my creations. I'm lucky enough to have a husband that enjoys the same things I do and supports me in all my endeavors." And JMO feels very lucky to have discovered her! Her designs are eye-catching and functional.

Take these Salt and Pepper Shakers with Purple Glass Gems for instance. Standing approximately 4" tall, they are embellished with violet glass gems, wire, and violet glass beads and would make an elegant addition to any table. They are sturdy enough to be used outside for a picnic or backyard bar-b-que, or inside for that fun dinner party. Marni can also make them in your choice of colors!

Or this Red Stained Glass Candleholder with polished Stone Cabachon. Marni created this asymmetrical candleholder using beautiful red stained glass and a polished agate cabachon. The stained glass sits atop a removeable metal stand that holds a tea light candle. Imagine the candlelight playing off the red glass, creating a captivating visual display! The glass piece itself is approximately 4 inches at it's widest point by 5 1/2 inches tall. Sitting on the stand, it is 6 1/4 inches tall.

And this Stained Glass Planter Charm/Suncatcher with polished Jasper Cabachon is a true work of art! Marni created this unique piece for use in potted flowers, houseplants or small container gardens. It can also hang in a window or from your vehicle's rear view mirror. She took a piece of stained glass, foiled and soldered the edges, and attached decorative wire, glass beads and/or charms. A beautiful polished Jasper Cabachon has also been attached to the glass. Use this piece outside in warmer weather, then during cooler months bring inside to add beauty and charm to the home. The charm is approximately 8” long (including beaded hanger & tassel) and 1 ½” wide. A hand-made wire shepherd’s hook is also available upon request.

For more information, including pricing, on these and all of Marni's beautiful creations, please visit her online shop at http://www.madebymarni.etsy.com/. All of her designs would make wonderful and unique gifts for yourself, your friends, or your loved ones.

A special thank you to Marni for allowing me to feature her gorgeous works of art here on my blog.