NH Etsy Street Team

2010-04-13T08:04:00.007-04:00

Welcome to our weekly NH Etsy Shop Feature!

This week we're featuring some of the cutest baby fashions and accessories you'll find in the Granite State.

Karen Mitchell is a work at home mom who runs a successful Etsy shop, Very Cozy Baby.

If you're a Mom like me, you're always hunting for stylish ways to outfit yourself while out and about with your little ones. Let's face it--diaper bags and essential Mom accessories are often lacking in the style department. Enter Karen Mitchell's shop. She uses bold yet durable fabrics and classic designs that take frumpy, tired Mom to hip and sophisticated Mom!

I am particularly fond of her line of diaper bags featuring Amy Butler fabrics. The size is perfect for fitting all those nitty gritty essentials that we can't live without, while not sacrificing on every woman's desire to look pretty and put together.

When the weather is nice, I love taking my 10 month old for walks in her stroller. It's not really necessary to take a full bag with me, but I do need to bring a few things with me like my cell phone, house keys, and maybe a Chapstick. This wristlet is the perfect answer! It's small enough to hold those few things that you inevitably need on a quick jaunt outdoors. And it's certainly not limited to outings with the baby. This versatile wristlet would travel in a diaper bag or purse perfectly.

And what about the babies?

Who could resist this adorable number, shown here in 12 month size? It's quite possible that I may need to pick this up for my soon to be 1 year old daughter!

And let's not forget the sweeter side. This precious baby blanket can be customized with your child's name. This is the type of blanket that will become a keepsake for your child. It would make a perfect baby shower gift for the expecting Mom, or a wonderful welcome home gift for new baby.

I had a chance to talk with the lovely and talented Karen Mitchell. Here's what she had to say about herself and her wonderful creations:

What is your name, and what is your Etsy shop name?

Karen Mitchell, VeryCozyBaby.etsy.com and VeryCozyBabysport.etsy.com

Do you have a blog, website, etc. you'd like to share?

verycozybaby.com or verycozybaby, LLC on facebook

Describe your craft/art.

I create and sew infant blankets of all types, infant and toddler clothing and accessories.

Describe your work space. If you could have your ideal work space what would it be?

Currently my sewing room is our office area. My ideal workspace would be a sewing room with lots of shelving for fabric as well as a cutting table!

Tell us a bit about yourself in general.

I have been at home with my three children (Cameron - 8, Brady - 6 and Haley - 2/1/2) for three years now. Prior to being at home, my career was at Fidelity Investments in Merrimack, NH for 11 years. I began as a trader and when I left, I was running a team of financial retirement specialists. I am very busy with all of the kiddos, but love to sew and create!

Aside from your art/crafting, what is your life like?

Pretty busy as I have three young children, but I keep myself busy with my business as well and I am always looking for ways to meet more crafty people. Until I started sewing for my business, I do not think I truly appreciated all the hard work and thought that hand crafters put into their work. Now, as I look at what people on Etsy and other places have created, I am so impressed!!!

How did you get into your art/craft?

I began sewing my Cozy carseat blankets for family and friends and people started asking me to make and sell them the blankets. From there, I just ventured into making other items and it has just taken off!

What do you love most about living and crafting in NH?

I love the willingness of other crafters to share thoughts and ideas. The NH Street Team was so welcoming when I joined a couple of years ago and has never disappointed me!

How do you promote your art/craft?

Other than Etsy, I have had some of my items in local shops, left biz or instructional cards at places that sell infant and toddler items and I have had a feature article in Kidsworld (a buyers magazine).

Are there any local venues where you sell your work?

I am about to have some of my blankets listed online for Bippity Boppity Baby in Nashua, NH

Describe a typical day in your crafting/art life.

lol!! when the kids are in school or nap, I sew!

What are your immediate goals for your work and life? Long term goals?

My immediate goals are to keep the orders that come in steady. Going forward, I would love for my business to be busy enough that when the kids are in school, I can do this work from home rather than get a job outside of the home.

If you could be doing anything with your life, what would it be?

I am very happy where I am right now - but would also love to be designing infant, toddler, kids items for others to make!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I would love to someday have a shop where I could make and sell my items!!

Well there you have it, folks. Be sure to visit Very Cozy Baby on Etsy, become a fan on Facebook, and check out her website. You'll be glad you did!

Thanks for supporting NH Artists living and working right here in the Granite State.

NH Etsy Shop Feature: Lauren Alana Jewelry

2010-03-26T10:04:00.010-04:00

Welcome to our weekly NH Etsy Shop Feature!

This week we're featuring a talented jewelry designer from the Granite State.

If you're looking for beautiful, elegant designs, Lauren Alana Jewelry on Etsy is an absolute must see. Lauren writes, "I often go on out of the way trips to find unique stones & crystals to use in my designs to make sure my customers get artisan pieces, not cookie cutter jewelry." And cookie cutter is not something you'll find in her shop by any means. Whether you're looking for a bracelet made with stunning lampwork beads, sterling silver and Swarovski crystal necklaces, or vintage inspired brass pieces, Lauren Alana Jewelry is the place to look.

One of my favorite pieces is this beautiful brass necklace. At only $28, I may have to pick it up for myself.

It's romantic and whimsical vintage styling would make a perfect gift for that beautiful woman in your life.

Another favorite is the Serena bracelet. Lauren says that it breaks her heart to part with such a gorgeous creation, and I can see why. It's simple and sophisticated enough to wear everyday to the office, but the blue lampwork beads give it enough jazz to dress up an evening out on the town. It's a steal at only $70, and I suspect this bracelet will move quickly into the hands of it's new owner.

I had a chance to talk with Lauren about her life and her work. Read on to learn more about Lauren Alana Jewelry on Etsy.

What is your name, and what is your Etsy shop name?
Lauren Boss
Lauren Alana Jewelry

Do you have a blog, website, etc. you'd like to share?
www.LaurenAlanaJewelry.etsy.com
http://www.LaurenAlanaJewelry.com
Facebook: Lauren Alana Artisan Jewelry
Twitter: LaurenAlanaB

Do you sell anywhere else online?
Above & supply shop at: www.MermaidBeadBooty.etsy.com

Describe your craft/art.
Artisan Jewelry, mostly one of a kind or very limited "production". I do a lot with dichroic glass jewelry, which is a timely process, but so pretty! I also do a lot with pearls, swarovski crystals, beach glass, wire wrapping...

Describe your work space. If you could have your ideal work space what would it be?
I have a portion of a finished basement dedicated to jewelry making. I also am lucky enough to have the dichroic glass kiln/saws/grinders set up where I work.

Ideally, I picture in my home studio... a back wall of enclosed glass cases...complete with lights, so that I can see everything at a glance. Everything would have a home & a specific place. Glass jars filled with swarovski crystals, beads, findings, rolls of sterling silver & gold filled wire, strings of high quality pearls hanging in one spot.... Of course there needs to be a place for my music... and a tv to watch the Red Sox on! Great lighing over the desk, a spot dedicated for picture taking... oh the dream goes on!

Tell us a bit about yourself in general.
I run a small family business renting construction equipment, so I deal with guys all day, and equipment. So I always joke around that my jewelry is my girlie thing that I do to keep balance in my life.

Aside from your art/crafting, what is your life like?
Well, I am a mom/daughter/sister/aunt/cousin/friend... I love old Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers movies and often find inspiration in the beautiful costuming. I also love the beach, I bring my dog there a lot, he's quite the beach bum, I think he even knows how to read the signs because he starts getting excited while we are still on the highway! The beach is my get-a-way spot that sooths my soul... maybe I was a mermaid in my last life? (haha) Which was the inspiration in my supply shop--MermaidBeadBooty

How did you get into your art/craft?
I love sparkley things! Pretty jewelry with lots of crystals! Years ago I started collecting vintage pins... and then it started to go into bracelets and an occasional necklace. Then I thought...hmmm I can make that. What started off as I can make a couple of things with fishing line and inexpensive beads and crystals grew into an art form for me. A really pretty way for my creative side to be fed. Then of course there is only so much you can wear yourself and give as gifts, so I started to sell it, which allowed me to expand my horizons to better quality and so it keeps on growing...

What do you love most about living and crafting in NH?
I love the etsy people that I have meet the past couple of years at craft fairs, they are all so nice and helpful. You don't get that competitive resentment from peopole doing the same craft, just nice, people!

I also have met a lot of different artsy people who years ago I wouldn't picture myself being friendly with, but I have expanded my horizons and have met some really cool, interesting people who are opening my eyes to a whole new world!

How do you promote your art/craft?
Etsy, website, word of mouth, craft fairs, art galleries....

Are there any local venues where you sell your work?
Maison de la Art in Nashua and Strait Ahead Hair Salon in Salem

Describe a typical day in your crafting/art life.
Typically at night I will do my designing. After working all day, it allows me to relax and put my mind away from work. During the day I sometimes find my muse working over time and have to draw designs and save them for later.
I usually have music on in the back ground, or a Red Sox game.

What are your immediate goals for your work and life? Long term goals?
Like most of us, immediately I'd like to survive this economy, and then grow my day business to a point where it would require less of my attention so I could focus more on the jewelry designing.

If you could be doing anything with your life, what would it be?
Have a nice jewelry studio over looking the ocean in my beach house (see above), but more realisticly, I would like to have more time to spend with family/friends. Do some relaxing--which for me includes designing, my muse comes alive when I'm relaxed, things just seem to flow so much better. I would also like to see my jewelry selling in a few more spots.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
You never know life will take you....Where ever I am I am pretty sure I will still be experimenting with how to make pretty jewelry! :)

Be sure to visit Lauren Alana Jewelry for one of a kind, artistic jewelry pieces. You won't be dissatisfied.

Thanks for supporting NH Artists living and working right here in the Granite State.

December Birthdays for the New Hampshire Street Team!

2009-12-05T08:47:00.003-05:00

December 3rd - Heart to Hand

Happy Birthday Carol! If you have a pet, then Heart to Hand is a MUST shop for you to check out. Customized items for your pet - like her pet treat jars and pet portraits - are meticulously crafted just for you and your pet. Visit Heart to Hand and see for yourself!

December 15th - Adrianne Designs

Carey - from Adrianne Designs and Adrianne Designs Petit - is celebrating her birthday today! Beautiful bags abound in her Etsy shop for both adults and any special little girls in your life who insist on carrying their own handbag. Adorable little onesies are also available - who could resist?

December 25th - L & B Accessories

Patty has a birthday - Happy Birthday! L & B Accessories, Patty's Etsy shop, has wonderful items that will make your life easier and more organized. Handmade wallets, handbags and pouches are just a few of the items to be found at L & B Accessories!

One of our own has been noticed by the Discovery Channel!

2009-12-04T13:34:00.002-05:00

Kim, over at WoofPurrCreations has had her Tug-O-War braids featured over at Planet Green at Discovery.com. She has made their ecofriendly list of gifts that are "semi handmade". To read the article click HERE (for the record she is number 41). To go directly to her shop and purchase your very own Tug-O-War braids pictured here, use this quick link. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35871083

Congrats Kim!!!!!!

Congrats NHWoodCreations!

2009-11-13T13:51:00.004-05:00

On being the featured seller! Your shop looks amazing and it is a well deserved honor.

Here's a quick link to the article: http://www.etsy.com/featured_seller.php

NH Team November Birthdays!

2009-11-03T20:39:00.000-05:00

November 4th - Ebony Paws

Stephanie (aka Ebony Paws) is celebrating her birthday on November 4th. Happy Birthday from all of your team members Stephanie! Using her photography skills, Stephanie has some gorgeous prints, unusual jewelry and other photographic goodies in her Etsy shop - check it out!

November 28th - Glenna's Garden

Happy Birthday Glenna - best wishes for a wonderful day! Gorgeous gift items abound in Glenna's Garden (her decorated notebooks are definitely worth checking out!) - do yourself a favor and visit her Etsy shop!

It's for a good cause...

2009-10-14T09:37:00.003-04:00

Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month I decided over on my blog I would be selling pink ribbon mini key fobs, with a portion of the sales going to sponsor my friends team, the "B Cups" for the annual walk. To read more about it, or to purchase a mini fob of your own please visit my blog at http://www.bagsbymelaniec.blogspot.com

Quilt Market, Houston '09

2009-10-13T09:21:00.002-04:00

So your probably wondering why a blog about people from New Hampshire is talking about a Quilt Market that was in Houston, well that is because Melissa from LittleGirlPearl was able to go.

Not only did she go, but she met some great fabric designers, such as Anna Maria Horner (pictured below).

It looks like she had a fantastic time, if you would like to read more about the fun Melissa had, use this quick link to go to her blog. http://littlegirlpearl.blogspot.com/

Happy Birthday in October!

2009-10-04T13:01:00.003-04:00

October 7th - Lap Dog Creations

Sincere birthday wishes to Nichole of Lap Dog Creations! Fun and creative stitch markers are her specialty - if you knit, her shop is a MUST!

It's all about Glenna!

2009-09-24T08:57:00.003-04:00

Over at ArchDiva's blog. Glenna's work can be seen over at her etsy shop, Gnormyle.

Below is just a small example of Glenna's work.

Hippo Press is out!!

2009-09-03T08:20:00.003-04:00

and we are all over it!

From the beginning to the end of the article many of our street team members are listed.

The following is just a small excerpt from the article. The whole article can be read by clicking HERE

Etsy phenomenon
The ability to make something and sell to a potentially worldwide audience is now rather simple through the Internet.

The Lamys have sold glass art online for about nine years. It’s kind of how they established themselves, Erica Lamy said. They use etsy.com and eBay.com, and their own Web site, http://www.innervisionglass.com/.

Other League members have used Etsy. “They’re looking for any avenue they can to sell their work,” Lowe-Stockwell said.

Etsy takes low fees compared to auction sites, users say, and it eliminates the need to learn to build a Web site with a “shopping cart” or pay someone else to.
Aimee Terravechia of Manchester started using the site last November and selling in June. She likes working with her hands and the idea of buying handmade, vintage, and supporting small business. Terravechia makes fine art prints from her paintings, and mainly sells quirky greeting cards on Etsy (http://www.aloucreations.etsy.com/). She’s part of the New Hampshire Etsy street team (nhstreetteam.blogspot.com, team.etsy.com/profilest/nh.shtml).

Etsian marketing

“I think that a lot of people expect when they open an Etsy site they’ll just have automatic sales,” said Holly Klump, 32, of Nashua. Not so, said these Etsians. You still have to promote yourself like a regular business. You can’t just expect people to come find you, Klump said.
Klump joined Etsy at its beginning, evident from her user number 173 (they are assigned in order), and sells hand-spun and -dyed yarn at http://www.misshawklet.etsy.com/. She switched to spinning in 2004 by watching online demos and reading instruction books about it, after starting to learn to knit from her roommate.

Etsy offers ways to promote on the site. Etsians can pay to advertise on the site’s “Showcase.” Some promote themselves in Etsy chat rooms, or start “Convos,” Etsy’s e-mail system. Its “superblog,” The Storque, has links to such things as “The Etsy Seller Handbook: All Our How-To’s About Selling.” Stephanie Paulus, 34, of Nashua gained visibility by creating a “Treasury,” 12 items a member likes. “If they like your Treasury, that’s what’s on the front page,” Paulus said. Paulus went to photography school, and sells photographic jewelry on Etsy (ebonypaws.etsy.com).

A Google Analytics log is available, artist Glenna Normyle said. “You can tell the number of people who have looked at each of the items in my shop,” she said. It also shows how people find your Etsy page, Paulus said.

Originally, Klump got a lot of her business through keeping a blog. That and Flickr have been the “cheapest and most successful ways to promote my business,” she said.
Other New Hampshire Etsians rely on social media. Paulus started a Facebook fan page that helped her get feedback on a new item — pet i.d. tags she created with her graphic design skills and Shrinky Dinks. She had her friends become fans, so their friends would then see Paulus’ link.
Along with using a Facebook page, Terravechia recently started writing a blog to showcase Etsy sellers she thinks are unique. She can post Etsy links into the blog, and uses Google AdSense to sell advertising on http://www.aloucreations.blogspot.com/. “So far I’ve only made two pennies. I get paid per click.... For every hundred dollars I make they’ll send me a check,” Terravechia said.

Handbag-maker Katy Brown, 34, of Concord, creator of the Concord Arts Market, is a “Facebook junkie.” She keeps up with some crafters through blogs (muchachak.blogspot.com); people in the online craft community cross-post to help promote each other, she said.

Brown was able to build a presence on Etsy early — she’s user 1,186. Now, it’s almost impossible to gain Etsy visibility for a jeweler studio-mate of hers. The primary way is to post regularly, she said. “I’ve heard crazy stories,” Brown said. People will relist over and over even though they are charged each time.

Make sure you take time to read the whole article, Heidi did a fantastic job writing it up and including as many of us as she could. Again, you can access the article by clicking HERE

September Birthdays for Our Team!

2009-09-01T19:49:00.004-04:00

This is sending out a great big "Happy Birthday" shout-out to our NH team members who have a birthday in September. Please join all of us in wishing them a wonderful birthday!

September 10th - MuchachaK
Looking for a beautiful handbag or accessory that has been handmade? Look no further! Check out Katy's shop - you won't be sorry!

September 15th - Nanda Handcrafted

Happy Birthday Wendy!!

September 21st - Lauren Alana Jewelry / Mermaid Bead Booty
Looking for some gorgeous jewels or some great supplies to use for your own creations? Lauren has just the goodies for you!

September 26th - Honeydew Studio
Like a touch of whimsy? If so, visit Nicole's shop - she has fantastical whimsy covered!

Happy Birthday to all of you!

Team day at the Concord Arts Market

2009-08-15T09:02:00.002-04:00

As mainly an online group we rarely have the chance to meet in person. So when Katy Brown ( MuchachaK), the founder of the Concord Arts Market in Concord, NH mentioned the opportunity to participate and have an "Etsy Day", some of us got the chance to take part. So, on July 25th of this year several New Hampshire Street Team members set up their tents (or shared one) to show and share. We had Sue from Scattered Stones Goods, Kim from Woofpurrcreations, Becca from Becca's Bead Creations, Nicole from Honeydew studios, Melissa McKeagney from Little Girl Pearl along with myself, Kathi from Recycled Plastic Bags by CraftyKathi. It was so nice to put some faces with names and even see other members who passed through the market that day for a visit. If you get a chance to visit the Concord Arts Market you might find these and other fine NH crafters there. Come on over and say hello!!

Written by Kathi from CraftyKathi for the Street Team Blog

Black Horse Embroidery is having a give away!

2009-08-14T08:54:00.002-04:00

Terry from Black Horse Embroidery is having a give away in her Etsy shop. She is offering to send free of charge 5 soldier ornaments to a serviceman or woman overseas. The ship to address must have an APO to qualify. To see the listing use the quick link below.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29281196

August Birthdays for our Team Members!

2009-08-08T08:13:00.003-04:00

Well, August has finally arrived and summer weather is starting to prevail here in NH. All of our members wish to extend the very best Happy Birthday wishes to our following team members:

AUGUST 1st - ARTESPRIT
Susan, from Artesprit, has beautiful original artwork in all sizes available in her shop.

AUGUST 2nd - SANDPIPER GLASS STUDIO
Jacqueline, from Sandpiper Glass Studio, shows amazing talent in the creation of her gorgeous glassworks!

AUGUST 8th - TAMDOLL
Tamdoll's shop, owned by Tammy, works with fabric and fibers to create some lovely unique items.

AUGUST 16th - WORKS OF ARTEMIS
Looking for a gift or that perfect piece of jewelry? Look no further - see Diana's shop, Works of Artemis, for that just-right piece!

AUGUST 20th - BAGS BY MELANIE
Fabulous bags, key fobs, and pouches - all made with meticulous care (and no patterns!) Check out Melanie's shop - you won't be disappointed!

AUGUST 28th
Happy Birthday Sarah!

July Birthdays - Belated Post

2009-08-08T08:01:00.005-04:00

Unfortunately I dropped the ball on wishing several of our NH Street Team members a very Happy Birthday for the month of July. The wishes are belated but heartfelt - hope you all had a wonderful day!!

JULY 6th

Crafty Kathi makes absolutely beautiful totes and bags from - tada!!- RECYCLED plastic bags. They are beautiful and what a terrific way to help the environment!

JULY 6th

Michele, of Pandy's fame, also had a birthday on July 6th. Amazing quilts and other fabulous items for home and fun can be found in her Etsy shop.

JULY 31st

Tawna, from NH Mommmy, celebrated her birthday on July 31st. Check out her shop!

Let's Celebrate Becki's Birthday!

2009-06-19T04:00:00.001-04:00

Becki, of KulerKhick fame (that's pronounced Cooler Chicks for those of you unfamiliar with her shop!) is celebrating her birthday today. Happy Birthday Becki! Becki is famous for her stunning chainmaille jewelry - oh! the patience required to put together her little gems! Check out some of her items below or, better still, visit her shop - you won't be sorry.

Happy Birthday Deborah!

2009-06-05T04:00:00.000-04:00

Deborah, of Deborah's Candle Magick fame, is celebrating her birthday today - Happy Birthday Deborah! Check out Deborah's shop - she creates yummy smelling hand poured soy wax candles. Close your eyes, imagine your favorite scent filling the air, and enjoy!

Rebecca has a birthday today!

2009-05-26T04:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Rebecca! Becca has a lovely Etsy shop that showcases her amazing jewelry talent. Her specialty is wire wrapping gorgeous stones - check out a sample of her work below OR visit her shop:

Birthday Girl Erica!

2009-05-05T04:00:00.001-04:00

Erica from Kaleidoscope Studio is celebrating her birthday today! Happy Birthday Erica! Erica make beautiful jewelry pieces that are unique and fun to wear. Some of her items can be seen below OR just visit her shop for lots more choices!

Happy Birthday Kim!

2009-05-03T06:42:00.006-04:00

Kim, from Woof Purr Creations, has a birthday today! Kim creates earth friendly and safe toys for your pets. Want to see more? Check out Kim's shop on Etsy - just a few of her fabulous pet items can be seen below:

Happy Birthday Kim!!

Two members on the front page in one day!

2009-04-30T16:41:00.006-04:00

Congratulations are in order for LittleGirlPearl and LBaccessories!! Both that made it on the front page today.

To see the listing that made it for LittleGirlPearl, click HERE, and to see the listing for LBaccessories you can click HERE

Belated birthday wishes to Terry!

2009-04-09T07:27:00.003-04:00

Belated birthday best wishes to our street team member Terry of Black Horse Embroidery - so sorry the sentiment is late but hope you had a terrific day!

Check out Terry's terrific Etsy shop - lots of fun items for you, your home, and for gift giving!

Congrats to ThreadFed!!

2009-03-26T01:45:00.002-04:00

For making the front page!

If you would like to see the listing in full detail click HERE

L&B Made the front page!!!

2009-03-19T11:19:00.004-04:00

Congrats Patty!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's Karen's birthday!

2009-03-17T04:00:00.000-04:00

March is a busy month for birthdays! Happy Birthday Karen - best wishes for a wonderful day.

Karen is the creator behind Very Cozy Baby - baby goods with style! Her carseat blankets are a must have - soooo snuggly and warm ...

Lovely lollipops from Louise!

2009-03-05T04:00:00.000-05:00

Louise, our lollipop maven, has a birthday today. Happy Birthday from all of your street team buddies!

Want a taste? Lots of choices - you can find something for EVERY occasion! Not to mention all of the other goodies that can be found in Louise's other shops on Etsy ....

Happy Birthday Marcia!

2009-03-03T04:00:00.000-05:00

Hip jewelry - original art - who could ask for anything more? If you like what you see, then a visit to sparegus is just the ticket! Happy Birthday Marcia!

A Birthday for Patti!

2009-02-23T04:00:00.000-05:00

See all those lovely bags above? Well, they can be found at Dahlia Handbags & Accessories. Fun and funky handbags - who could ask for more? Happy Birthday Patti - best wishes for a great one!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

Our New Hampshire Street Team wishes you a romantic, fun, and silly Valentine's Day! Check out some of our items below devoted to Cupid's Day.

Jennafur has a birthday!

2009-01-24T07:44:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Jennafur - all of your street team friends wish you a wonderful day! Check out Jennafur's aintnobarbiedawl shop on Etsy for some great zines! According to her shop announcement, new ones are on the way soon!

Patty is celebrating a birthday!

2008-12-25T04:00:00.001-05:00

See all of those beautiful creations above? They are created by Patty, of LB Accessories fame, who is celebrating her birthday today! Best wishes for a wonderful birthday Patty from all of your Street Team friends!

Carey has a birthday!

2008-12-15T04:00:00.001-05:00

Our NH Street Team has birthdays galore in December and all of us would like to wish Carey, of Adrianne Designs, a very "Happy Birthday!" Beautiful fabric creations - purses, aprons, and totes to name a few - abound in the Adrianne Designs shop - be sure to check them out!

Happy Birthday Carol!

2008-12-03T04:00:00.001-05:00

Carol, a member of our NH Street Team and the creative talent behind Heart to Hand Creations, has a birthday today! Best wishes for a Happy Birthday from all of your street team buddies! Check out Carol's Etsy shop - especially all of you animal lovers - you're sure to find something special.

A Belated Happy Birthday

2008-10-08T19:38:00.003-04:00

I messed up and am off a day on wishing one of our NH Street Team members a VERY happy birthday! While the wish might be a day late, the sentiment is heartfelt - hope you enjoyed your birthday Nichole!

Nichole carries amazing stitch markers in her shop, Lap Dog Creations, among other things. Check her shop out - you'll find a set of knitting markers that you're sure to love!

She's done it again....

2008-09-27T19:14:00.000-04:00

Need I say more??

Woohoo! It's Lauren's birthday!

2008-09-21T04:00:00.001-04:00

Another September birthday for our street team to celebrate! Lauren is one busy, busy girl - she has TWO shops on Etsy to maintain!

Visit Lauren Alana Jewelry for beautiful, original jewelry. Check out the goodies below:

Once you've had a chance to drool over all of the lovelies that Lauren creates, move on to Mermaid Bead Booty for amazing supplies. Oh, the possibilities!!

Happy Birthday from all of your street team buddies!

Front page at 10:30am on September 15th

2008-09-15T10:30:00.002-04:00

Anyone's name look familiar on this list? Congrats again to Melissa for making it into another treasury that has graced the front page of etsy :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Wendy!

2008-09-15T04:00:00.003-04:00

Apparently we're rich in birthdays right now here at NH Etsy central. Today: Happy Birthday to Wendy of Nanda Handcrafted!

The lovely blue capelet above is one of her beautiful creations, and there's more to be seen in her Etsy shop...just look at that nubby delicious texture...LOVE it...

Happy Birthday muchachak!

2008-09-10T06:27:00.001-04:00

Here's wishing our very own muchachak (aka Katy) a rockin' birthday today!! Happy Birthday Katy from all of your New Hampshire street team buddies!

Check out muchachak's Etsy shop to see all of her goodies!

Welcome Woof Purr Creations!

2008-09-05T11:33:00.010-04:00

A new shop has joined our little team and if you have pets - well, let's just say you're going to be in heaven shopping for your four-legged friend(s).

Kim of Woof Purr Creations has just opened her Etsy shop. Her earth-friendly and customizable dog and cat toys are fun and fabulous. Some of the great finds:

Organic Catnip Butterflies

Customized Tug-O-War Braid

More great finds for your kittens, cats, pooches and pups can be found at Woof Purr Creations - welcome Kim! And as a thank you for visiting her shop during her grand opening, Kim is offering a 10% discount to anyone who mentions the NH blog in the notes to seller section of the order (offer good through September 30th, 2008). Shop on!

Outdoor Overnight Art!

2008-08-29T20:53:00.003-04:00

Visual artist Susan Schwake is one of the featured artists in the City of Portsmouth's ArtSpeak Overnight Art 2008 exhibition. I'd bore you with the details (which you can find HERE) but I'd much rather let the art speak for itself:

WOW! Talk about impact!

Little Girl Pearl has done it again~

2008-08-26T14:25:00.002-04:00

She's Done it again :)

2008-08-10T07:30:00.003-04:00

Congrats Little Girl Pearl for your front page appearance this Sunday morning!

Here's the quick link for the listing that made it

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=fp_feat_1&listing_id=9764184

Our Very Own...

2008-07-08T07:06:00.002-04:00

Little Girl Pearl, made the front page today, great job!!

To see the actual listing for the dress that made it follow this link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=fp_feat_6&listing_id=12385062

Congrats again!

Farmer's Market Season!

2008-05-25T01:18:00.002-04:00

From Sarah aka geekxnerd:

Farmers' Markets Return to the Seacoast!

A few weeks ago I attended Portsmouth's first farmers' market of the
season. There were
more vendors than I expected, considering the long winter that we
(fingers crossed -
barring all freak snow storms!) seem to have finally pulled through.
There were many
shoppers out as well, despite the rain, and I enjoyed taking in the
scene, observing the
shared excitement among the attendees for local food and goods.

I felt that this excursion was applicable to share on the NH Etsy
Street Team blog because
growing the food you eat is about as DIY/handmade as one can get. It's
no secret that I
have enormous respect for local food producers. I view crafters,
artisans and
farmers as part of the growing diy community. Many of us are returning
to traditions of
making things by hand, consuming less, taking care of the earth, living
respectfully off of
the land. Participating in these actions brings me joy. Being a part of
this community gives
me hope for a better planet. We are part of the solution.

The following quote really hits the nail on the head for me:

"...buying local supports community economic development, helping
communities sustain
their livelihood and character. It provides access to the freshest food
available, enhancing
taste and reducing food waste. And it strengthens our food community,
encouraging
social networks and food security in our communities and regions. Not
only that, but
knowing where your food comes from can help you advocate for
lower-carbon production
methods in your community, such as reducing fertilizer usage, no-till
agriculture
methods, and pasture-based livestock systems." (Originally posted on href="http://discoversustainability.org/?p=46">Discover(ing)
Sustainability, UNH's
sustainability blog, and re-posted, where I saw it, on href="http://blog.seacoasteatlocal.org/">Seacoast Eat Local. )

I urge you to support your local farmers in the coming months. href="http://farmtophilly.com/index.php/site/comments/eat_local_with_us_this_summer/
">Challenge yourself to eat one meal made of entirely local ingredients
this summer.
Discover what foods are unique to your area - and taste them! You might
be surprised at
just how easy and fun this can be!

Cheers, Sarah aka geek+nerd

And more market info:

Seacoast Growers

Portsmouth: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the City Hall lot
on Junkins Avenue

Dover: Wednesdays starting June 4, 2:30-6 p.m., McIntosh College's
Atlantic Culinary
Academy parking lot, 181 Silver St.

Durham: Mondays starting June 2, 2:30-5:30 p.m., Durham traffic circle,
Pettee Brook
parking lot

Exeter: Thursdays starting June 5, 2:30-6 p.m., Swasey Parkway;
Hampton: Tuesdays
starting June 3, 3:00-6 p.m., Route 1, across from the post office

Kingston: Tuesdays starting June 3, 2:30-5:30 p.m., Main Street.

There are twenty markets in York, Strafford and Rockingham counties,
view links to
information and locations on this map.

Not in NH? Search this href="http://apps.ams.usda.gov/FarmersMarkets/">national
database for a market near you.

New Hampshire Magazine

2008-05-02T06:53:00.003-04:00

C0ngrats to all the sellers that made it into New Hampshire Magazine in May!!!

You can read the full article here: http://www.nhmagazine.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080501/NHM07/724910154

It's a great day to be in New Hampshire (well if you like the rain that is, haha)

Order Up!

2008-04-06T21:34:00.003-04:00

At a loss for words? Marla Landers-Renouf isn't. She's a new Street Team member who recently moved to Salem, NH from Canada. She runs Short-Order Verse, a custom poem-writing service. Customers provide basic details and she transforms them into poetic holiday letters, wedding toasts or gifts for any occasion. She also offers single verses for invitations, announcements and cards. Her Etsy shop can be found at http://shortorderverse.etsy.com and she also has a website at www.shortorderverse.com.

Hip to be............

2008-03-18T19:52:00.004-04:00

Katy Brown, we know her as MuchachaK

Katy was featured in the Concord Insider today, so if you want to read more about Katy, and The Speakeasy Boutique, follow this link: http://www.theconcordinsider.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080318/THECONCORDINSIDER/803180441

Congratulations Katy!!!!!!

Spotlight on BAGS!!!

2008-03-15T08:34:00.002-04:00

I figured that there are so many different talented people in our group that I decided to show, that even though there are some of us that make the same type of thing that they are all unique and special.

So since I am quite passionate about bags, I figured why not start there.

First, lets talk about the lovely, stylish, and fun MuchachaK owner of the Speakeasy Boutique in Concord, and the designer of these lovely clutches.

What I admire most about Katy is her ability to work with some of the most hair raising, stressful fabrics and make something truly beautiful.

Now it is time to focus on LBAccessories, the home of some of the most beautiful wallets I have ever laid eyes on. Yes even better then my own.

The choices in fabrics is stunning, nothing like you can find anywhere else on Etsy. You can see the quality workmanship in ever photo.

The don't only make wallets, wristlets, bags and more.

We can't talk about bags without mentioning the famous CraftyKathi (just in case you missed it she was on NH Chronicle), who takes boring plastic bags and crochets them into fun, reusable, eco-friendly shopping totes. Need I say more??

As I was going over the list of people in our group, I stumbled upon Fangobbles, who I originally thought just did paintings and I found this super cute zippered pouch.

Now that you have read through all of this and have seen some amazing work, you may have noticed my comment in the beginning of this post about myself being so passionate about bags, well that is because I am BagsByMelanie, maker of all sorts of different bags. I have quite a variety of things to choose from because I am always changing and trying new things. Always trying to design the next big thing. Which of course hasn't happened yet, but it will. One of my favorites is this brown and white bag, which not only you can see here, but if you are in the Concord area you can go see it, in person at the Speakeasy Boutique.

Almost all of my bags are one of a kind creations, I usually only make more then one if someone asks for it.

Well I think this brings us to the end of this long post about bags. I hope you enjoyed reading it, and looking at all the different variety we have to offer here in New Hampshire.

MuchachaK makes the treasury

2008-03-11T18:01:00.003-04:00

Katy's little birds from the treasury by estasketch made the front page today!
I thought I would jump in and add this post to celebrate our love for Katy and all of her hard work with the street team.
Go Katy!

Artist Snapshot: Susan Schwake/artesprit

2008-02-26T21:00:00.006-05:00

This lovely bird is the work of Susan Schwake. Known as artesprit on Etsy, Susan is a fine artist and owner of the artstream gallery in Rochester, NH.

Her smaller works have found a home at her Etsy shop Artesprit.

But a broader offering of her work can be seen at her website, www.susanschwake.com.

Artisan Profile: Pandys and Griffin Gear!

2008-02-19T00:43:00.003-05:00

Michelle of GriffinGear and Pandy's of Lake Sunapee is a busy lady. She has two Etsy shops after all. GriffinGear is her home shop for great gear for pint sized guys...like flannel lounge pants, fleece pants, vests, jackets and hats. Pandys of Lake Sunapee is home to the oh-so-handy beer quilt and other quilted items including wall quilts, table quilts, quilted totes, quilted coasters, pouches, fabric gift bags, creative chaos quilted keychains. She's proof that not only do we have a talented membership, but many multi-talented members as well.

We should all be so lucky as this beer, to be lounging lakeside in a Pandy's Beer Quilt...ahhh summer in New Hampshire...

Artisan Profile: CV Creationz!

2008-02-10T21:33:00.000-05:00

Christina von Hahmann aka CV Creationz, started out making jewelry four years ago but has slowly morphed her shop into a little girls' gifts and accessories shop mostly themed around hair accessories (bows, barrettes, bow holders, headbands and more): Christina's Shop. It's a good place to check out if you've got little girls to shop for. One of her particularly fun items is her Tooth Fairy bracelet kit. The basic idea: lose a tooth, replace it with a bauble on a sweet charm bracelet you can keep forever: Tooth Fairy Bracelet Kit... All in all Christina is a purveyor of cute stuff for little girls who happen to love bows and baubles!

Portable Creative Space!

2008-02-04T18:23:00.000-05:00

Not only is Bonny of BonnyJewelry talented, she's apparently also organized! Suggestions for organization of a portable creative space from Bonny herself:

"Since space is very limited, I have come up with a portable system and work from my kitchen counter (much to my husband's chagrin). I have a rolling cart which holds most of my beading related items. A label maker (one of my new best friends) was used to mark each box with the color inside for easy viewing. A large tool box holds my various small tools, as well as bigger items like sterling wire, hammers, my bench block, etc.

My kitchen table doubles as a photography area where I set up my lightbox and have my display material at the ready for picture taking. The foot gets the most notice at craft shows that I attend - it is used for my anklets but people just think it's funny to see a foot on the table! I love the lightbox since it folds up nearly flat and I can store it just about anywhere."

Thank you for sharing Bonny, and perhaps shaming the rest of us into fulfilling our New Year's Resolutions to make our own workspaces more efficient and productive places to create! Note to self: must get labelmaker...

If you'd like to see the fruits of Bonny's very organized labor, visit her Etsy Shop...

Special Art Therapy Feature: Creating with Kids

2008-02-01T17:17:00.001-05:00

So it’s about the environment that we create for our children that will make a huge difference in their creative lives. The physical environment starts off with media available to them, media appropriate for their age group, I might add (I will post about the media range in future weeks/months…come subscribe to the RSS feed now and check back often).

Modeling the behavior is also part of the physical environment…do you create? Do you give yourself time to get messy and play with crayons, markers, clay, paint, colored water, needle and thread? Children’s brains work in such a way that they are very tactile…they learn by touching, seeing, doing. Their developing brains need constant stimulation to grow pathways that will enable them to achieve new abilities now and later in life. In the Alzheimer’s world it’s called “Use it or loose it!” well, with art, creativity and kids you are encouraging them to develop it, so they can use it and hopefully keep using it. If you are one of the many wonderful artists from Etsy then you are half way there!

Now, to establish their mental environment: It’s important to establish space to create. Space and boundaries can be established with lines drawn on the driveway with sidewalk chalk or with painter’s tape on the kitchen table. Use of a placemat or tray is also helpful to establish boundaries. Paper itself is a boundary of sorts but clay or textile work may need more effort to set up and put away. Yes, these are also physical ways of manipulating their environments but what you are also doing is un-cluttering their visual space. Once they have space to focus to task they are more apt to benefit from the time spent doing the activity.

What if you have siblings and a toddler keeps touching older brother or sister’s image? A common response is, “oh, Suzy just wants to do what you are doing”. That will only lead to the older child feeling under valued. When a child wants to create make sure you set up space for both or all children in the home. Art is like a magnet and if one leads, others will follow. Applaud the leadership of the older child to initiate the activity and ask the older child from the beginning to help set up space for both/all.

Reinforce boundaries, “this is your paper and that is Johny’s”. Be careful not to add your artistic touch to an image or creation without asking first too. They may allow it but they may also feel like they have no other choice as most kids want to please the parent. Respect, on all levels of creativity, will yield a happy, creative, well developed sense of autonomy and encourage positive sibling interaction.

It is common to hear that the older child wants to work with markers but the younger child is unable to refrain from drawing on their body and mom or dad would prefer crayons be used. Know this going into the process, and brainstorm what artists use and maybe get some higher-end crayons for the children. The older child will love that they are “artist” quality media and the younger child will be using developmentally appropriate media. Also have a crayon sharpener available to the older child for a chiseled tip, this too is a tool that they will value as special to their age and will allow for more precise line placement.

The spiritual environment is the space you give to their fragile and ever developing sense of self and self worth. Different age groups have different needs with this, sometimes it’s strictly through peer interaction but often times it’s the refueling they get from mom and dad that helps foster their sense of wholeness verses feelings of inadequacy. When your child draws or creates…do you hear yourself saying, “Oh honey, it’s wonderful, what is it?” This simple statement can be so earth shatteringly painful to their egos. All of a sudden what was simple expression and play has turned into function and value and performance…trying to please mom or dad, they respond with “It’s you”…or some other idea that pops into their head.

The time a child creates…the seconds of creation is when you will find out what the image expresses…not minutes after it’s completed. Spend time with your child while they create. Foster a dialogue with them about their use of color and stroke, how they choose to fill up space or choose to leave areas empty. Encourage them to project thoughts into the scribble or image…”if your picture could talk what would it say to you? What is it thinking? What does the painting wish they could do? What is the yellow color feeling?” Rather than asking them “what is it” remark about the shapes and juxtaposition of objects, balance of the image or asymmetry. Yes, I do use those terms with my kids since they were about 2 or 3 and drawing up a storm…it expands their vocabulary and provides words of value to what they create, rather than judging and providing expectations of performance.

Embrace the image whether it is pretty or not to your eye, the moment of expression is beautiful and that is ART! Support their process of creating through support of the environment whether the end result is a cherished keepsake or not.

Authored by Jodi of HappyHouseQuilts, New Hampshire Street Team member, and Master's Level Art Therapist. You can find more of her writings at HappyHouseQuilts blog...

Crafty Kathi on Chronicle Update

2008-01-28T15:44:00.000-05:00

As promised we would let you know when we knew any more about it.

Well here's the link, Kathi will be on Friday February 1st.

http://www.wmur.com/chronicle/15131048/detail.html

Artisan Profile: Happy House Quilts!

2008-01-26T20:00:00.000-05:00

Jodi is a mom of 3 small kids who loves to sew and is inspired by quilts--and a NH Street Team member. About her art, and busy life, she says, "Because I can't dedicate time to making large projects right now, I make small quilt inspired accessories for your daily life. Practical and functional accessories for your hair or your child's hair, as well as brooches, bookmarks, and coffee quilts. I also am a registered, Master's Level, Art Therapist and have developed a craft kit for children to learn to sew and create from within as they also make practical accessories out of felt." Her pretty hair quilt clips can be found in her Etsy Shop, Happy House Quilts!

Our Very own Crafty Kathi

2008-01-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

Is on her way to being the most famous NH Street Teamer of all :)

Kathi just had the following article posted in The Concord Insider, this just following an interview for New Hampshire Chronicle.

Congrats Kathi!!!!

http://www.theconcordinsider.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080122/THECONCORDINSIDER/801220404/1299/REPOSITORY

Artisan profile: Silver Mountain Originals!

2008-01-20T17:56:00.000-05:00

Tammy of Silver Mountain Originals is an artisan of many talents. Her work and her shop are a fun mixture of fabric, collage, knitting, sewn goods, recycled objects, art dolls, jewelry, handbags, and photographic cards. Take a glance at her online home and you'll see what I mean: http://www.tamdoll.etsy.com

This is her "The Queen" mini-art-quilt collage, a beautiful mixture of textures and colors, from an eclectic artist:

Made in NH

2008-01-11T07:47:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for that unique item that was made in New Hampshire?

Well let me try to make it a little easier for you.

Knowing that sometimes it is a little overwhelming trying to find what your looking for on Etsy, here is a few quick links and helpful hints to get you going.

First and foremost, I made it fairly easy to find a good portion of us by adding a list of New Hampshire Street Team members on the right. Just scroll down and you will see it.

Did you see those pictures on your scroll down, those are links to some of our shops, so there is another way.

Now lets assume you made it to the Etsy.com home page, there is a lot of awesome features there. Such as Shop Local, (my personal favorite way to search) you can type in "New Hampshire" in the search line and find all the sellers from the state. You can narrow it down some by city even, if you choose.

Then there is the Geolocator, which I personally don't find as much fun, but you can find us in there.

If you choose to use the search function you can find some of us just by simply typing "NH" or even this "NHMADE"in that search line.

I hope I have made it some what easier for you to find what your looking for. Etsy is a large site with some amazing items. No more amazing then those made and handcrafted in the Granite State.

Chronicle, Etsy and Plastic Bags

2008-01-10T18:03:00.000-05:00

What do these have in common you ask?

Well let me tell you, our very own CraftyKathi spent a few hours today with the team from NH Chronicle.

Here's a few words from Kathi herself:

"I honestly was crazy nervous (stomach in the throat kind of nervous)and I have to say that they (Donna and Chris, the cameraman) were sovery nice and genuine. It was very low key. We talked about my bags,recycling, how I started...etc. Chris set up. We started taping andtalked again about my bags and stuff. Then camera shots of my bags,the plastic bags I use to make my bags, some shots of me crocheting,even put my son Jadon in there helping me string."

So in the next few weeks if you have access to WMUR make sure you tune it at 7:30 pm to NH Chronicle.

As soon as we hear more as to when the segment will air you will know too.

CONGRATULATIONS KATHI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our team in the press

2008-01-04T14:43:00.000-05:00

The end of last year was certainly exciting for our team.

From articles in the Union Leader, and Portsmouth Magazine, the word is getting out.

So here's to this year and much success for all!!

Craft Fair Season Continues!

2007-11-24T14:59:00.000-05:00

Happy House Quilts managed to pull of their first craft fair as well on November 17 in Bow. Gilford Middle School is the next stop for this shop on the road...December 1.

Buy Handmade!
Support your local crafters!
Buy Made in NH items!!!
Shop at Etsy.com to find more made in NH items!

BUY HANDMADE, Please :)

2007-10-25T20:16:00.000-04:00

Not only should you buy handmade but we want you to get handmade for all your holiday gifts.

When you buy handmade you may be helping a stay at home mother, or someone who just lost their job, or even someone just like yourself.

So buy handmade and support some wonderful people.

Here's a quick link to help you get started on your all handmade holiday gift giving. Following this link will bring you to a list of terrific items made right here in the Granite state!

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title&search_query=nh

My first fair...

2007-10-22T17:56:00.000-04:00

of the season has come and gone, and I am quite happy with how it came out.

I had a lot of bags with me that no one has even seen in my etsy shop. I had a great time and learned a lot about what caught peoples eyes.

I am looking forward to next month for the fair in Derry, NH that Bonny talked me into doing!

Congrats to Michelle of Pandy's

2007-10-04T08:13:00.000-04:00

As most of you know the Deerfield fair was this past weekend. It was a great time, the weather was great and the blue ribbon's were a flying.

Michelle entered a quilted tote bag, a lap quilt, and a small table quilt and got blue ribbons on all three. Which if you don't know that means first place!! Michelle's children are also talented like their mother because they got blue ribbons on their items too.

To read more about it check out her blog at http://pandysoflakesunapee.blogspot.com/

Kathi Rienstra--CraftyKathi

2007-09-25T07:57:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Kathi Rienstra

Your Shop URL: craftykathi.etsy.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I have always loved to craft. My mother taught me to knit and crochet. I taught myself ANYTHING that had to do with creating something. I had a girlfriend once tell me I would drive a handmade car if I could figure out how to make it. I love the process, I love the creativity of it and I love the endless possibilities.

Tell us about what you make: I take plastic bags and crochet them into reusable bags/totes. There are SO many plastic bags in our world. I had often recycled them in a recycling bin, used them to throw diapers away when my kids were little and yes, sadly, thrown some away when I could not find any other place to use them. I am so happy to find a great crafty way to use up some of the plastic that seems to be everywhere.

How did you learn your craft?: Several years ago my Grandmother came up to NH from Florida. She had learned to crochet plastic bags into reusable totes/bags. She had one for all of her grandchildren. I fell in love with the idea of reusing the plastic bags and begged her to teach me. Ever since I can't seem to look at a plastic bag without thinking how it might look crocheted. Thanks Grammie!

How did you find Etsy?: A friend of mine, Jodi (happyhousequilts.etsy.com). She had told me SEVERAL times to sell my bags. I nodded and agreed but wasn't doing anything about it. She then said I should put them on Etsy. I, of course said, "What's Etsy?" She filled me in and I am so glad she did. Thanks Jodi!!!!

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: I LOVE that there is a site just for handmade items. It is really a wonderful place to find some great unique items from the heart of so many crafters.

New Hampshire Street Team at Etsy enters Autumn!

2007-09-21T21:23:00.001-04:00

Good-bye Summer...we will bid you farewell and usher in the next season that just happens to be an amazing time of the year to live in NH! But if you can't live here...then buy a little bit of it and take it back home with you!

Happy Leaf Peeping Season!

Click oh this to see some wonderful items from the New Hampshire Street Team with the theme of autumn!!!

Want to learn more about your favorite NH sellers?

2007-09-11T19:34:00.001-04:00

Then make sure you check out their blogs!

I just added a few links to their personal blogs, make sure you check them out.

Craft fair season is almost upon us!

2007-08-24T19:48:00.001-04:00

While your out and about checking out craft fairs make sure you pencil in the following dates. You wouldn't want to miss your chance to meet the lovely people behind these great New Hampshire made crafts!

Holly Rose Aromatherapy:
September 8th - Manchester, NH 10-4 Mill City Festival
September 29th and 30th - Andover, MA Greater Lawrence Vocational Technical school
November 10th - St. Mary's Craft Fair at Dover High School 9-3 Dover, NH

MuchachaK:
The South End Holiday Market in Boston, December 8th and 9th.

For more info please check out the following link: http://southendholidaymarket.com/vendorguidelines.htm

Scrappy Seller:
November 3rd - Dover Parents Music Club
November 17th - ExeterAnnual Yuletide Fair

Bonny Jewelry:
September 22nd - Fall Fling Craft Fair, Concord NH
October 20th - Harvest Craft Fair, Somersworth NH
November 3rd - 5th Annual Holiday Craft Fair, Northwood NH
November 10th - Memorial HS Craft Fair, Manchester NH
November 17th - Saint Thomas Aquinas Christmas Fair, Derry NH
December 1st - GFWC Hudson Craft Show, Hudson NH

Bags By Melanie:
October 20th - First Church in Sterling MA

Happy House Quilts:
November 17th - Bow PTO
December 1st - Gilford High School

Pandys:
November 10th - Memorial High School Craft Fair, Manchester NH

Deedaloos:
November 24th - Kingswood Regional High School

We hope to see you there!!!!

Bonny Anderson -- BonnyJewelry

2007-08-15T10:25:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Bonny Anderson

Your Shop URL: http://bonnyjewelry.etsy.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I'm a New Englander at heart - I was born and raised on the Maine coast near the Canadian border but now live in Manchester NH with my hubby and collie.

Tell us about what you make: I sell beautiful and affordable handmade beaded jewelry items.

How did you learn your craft?: I got hooked on making jewelry when I visited a small bead store in Maine and made my first necklace - I love the creativity and "instant" gratification of being able to wear something that I made with my own two little hands. New ideas and techniques fascinate me - I've always got more ideas than time! For the most part, I've learned my beading and stringing techniques after much research and through trial and error. Once I've got a design in my head, I try to figure out how to translate it to my jewelry and make it work.

How did you find Etsy?: I found Etsy by looking around the web for Christmas ideas and stumbled across some items that belonged to other Etsy shops. After checking into it a bit more, I decided to open my own shop.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: All of the people I've met online who are willing to share their ideas and suggestions and support to someone who is just starting out in the online selling world. Their ideas and insights all provide a very supportive environment for the new sellers on the block.

Christina von Hahmann -- CvCreationZ

2007-08-07T16:35:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Christina von Hahmann

Your Shop URL: www.cvcreationz.etsy.

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I am a SAHM and a Air Force Wife. I grew up in the military life style as my Dad was in the Air Force. I have two sisters and two brothers all of which at some point were linked to the Air Force either through marriage or through enlisting themselves. We moved every 2-3 years when I grew up and I liked it quite a bit, I liked meeting people form all over. As I got older though I thought for sure that I wouldn't want to move around the rest of my life. I met my husband by chance and sure enough he was in the Air Force. I love our life and I have grown quite fond of moving around. Not sure what I'll do when we retire and stay put.

Tell us about what you make: I started out making jewelry and I have always been very creative and through the past years my jewelry making has morphed into a little bit of everything now. I currently make jewelry, hair bows, barrettes, Tooth Fairy Kits, Potty Princess Kits and a few other items realted to children. i have slowly been moving in the direction of a children's boutique with my shop and I find that I enjoy that a lot more.

How did you learn your craft?: A lot of my crafts just come from my creative mind. I find that I need something and then I try to make my own solution to the problem. In other cases I have seen items that I like and have taken them down a different road and turned them into my own original idea.

How did you find Etsy?: I am not quite sure how I found ETSY. I think that I was doing a search for something I was looking for and kept running across the word ETSY in most of the links I was given. I just followed a few of them and did a little research on what ETSY was and found that it was perfect for what I wanted to do with my jewelry.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: I think my favorite aspect about ETSY is the fact that they run it a little like Ebay but they don't kill you with fees and they are very generous with the amount of time your listing lasts. Four months to sell something is awesome and who can beat 20 cents per listing?

Jodi Doody -- HappyHouseQuilts

2007-07-31T09:59:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Jodi Doody

Your Shop URL:
http://HappyHouseQuilts.etsy.com

My Blog:
http://HappyHouseQuilts.blogspot.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I’m a wife, mother to 3 amazing girls and a Masters Level Art Therapist. I’m a SAHM, an avid crafter and now business owner of Happyhousequilts.com. I started my Etsy shop back in March of 2007 and sell my own unique quilt inspired items. It really pleases me to know that I can inspire my kids, help with the budget, use my Art Therapy Training and be creative, all at the same time!

Tell us about what you make: Happy House Quilts is a shop to find one-of-a-kind, quilt inspired, handmade, and boutique quality accessories. Practical and fashionable accessories are made exclusively in New Hampshire by a crafty stay at home mom. Items include Coffee Quilts™ for hot or cold beverages, Hair Quilts™ for women and children to tame their tresses, Ruff Quilts™ for pets, Quilt Clamps™ for catching clutter and Threadibilities Craft Kits™ for school age children and pre-teensto bust through their boredom and give them a lifelong skill of crafting and sewing.

The Hair Quilt product line is expanding with functional Slides, French Style Barrette “Thread Art” Hair Quilts(tm) for ladies and girls, Silk Blossom Appliqué Hair Quilts(tm), Felt Clips for the younger age groups and Headache-free Headbands(tm) with interchangeable clips that work with them. Custom orders including custom sized Slides, “Mommy and Me” as well as “Puppy and Me” sets available upon request.

The Threadibility Craft Kits™ product line is also expanding just in time for the holiday shopping season! There are multiple sizes in the Threadibilities Clip Kits™, large felt shapes and small shapes. Special orders for birthday parties are available as well. New kits designed special for boys and girls to make, including Quilt Clamps™ and holiday ornaments with a spot to include their school photo!!! These kits will be great for school age children to work on and then give as gifts when their piggy banks can’t support a major shopping spree at the mall.

How did you learn your craft?: I have always loved crafts. Ever since I can remember I preferred to create things over sports or many other activities. I minored in Art in college and I went to graduate school for Art Therapy. Part of the curriculum was learning about various media however textiles never entered the equation until I be came a mother and then began watching HGTV and Simply Quilts with Alex Anderson. I studied that show for several years even video taping it to learn and relearn techniques. Much of the time I would try the projects and out of this was born much of my home décor. I have always worked small as the kids don’t let me work in large chunks of time. But small works for me as I like to make practical items and much of them are small.

How did you find Etsy?: I stumbled upon it doing research for products.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: I love the community and the support that you can get if you reach out for it.

At Etsy I am proud to be founding member of EtsyMom Street Team, and a member of NH Street Team, and EtsyKids Street Team.

Holly Moccia -- Hollyrose Aromatherapy

2007-07-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Holly Moccia

Your Shop URL: www.hollyrose.etsy.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself: My name is Holly and I make aromatherapy bath and body products made with pure essential oils. I consider this a hobby as well as a small business. I am located in Barrington,NH near the seacoast. I enjoy what I do and am always looking to expand and create new products!

Tell us about what you make: Pure aromatherapy bath and body products made fresh to order. I am in the process of updating my etsy store feature only products made with essential oils and not cheap fragrances. I sell body butters,body spray,massage oil,incense and more.

How did you learn your craft?: I learned one year when I decided to make massage oils for christmas and I started blending different oils together.

How did you find Etsy?: Hmm I can't really remember but I think it was on a crafting forum.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: Everything is unique and handmade.

Katy Brown -- MuchachaK

2007-07-16T09:40:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Katy Brown, aka "muchacha K"

Your Shop URL: http://muchachaK.com (My main website links to my Etsy shop, and is the official home for my business.)

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I'm a West Coast transplant (though I was born in NH). I've lived in the Seattle area, the San Francisco Bay area, and now, lovely New England. I've always been a creative person, performing theater and music, creating handmade stuff, writing plays. Right now my primary muse is my sewing machine. It's a vintage industrial Singer and it looks like a Studebaker. It's avocado green, and beautiful, but functional...that's what I try to achieve with my sewn creations as well.

Tell us about what you make: I make handbags and hair accessories primarily. My shop has been accused of being "really happy", as I tend to use lots of fun colors and patterns, and happy little birds and other found objects in my work.

How did you learn your craft?: Started sewing at the age of 6. My mother gave me a tiny hand sewing kit and I still have it. I sewed by hand for 20 years before discovering the joys and exhilirating speed of sewing machines. Now, I almost exclusively sew by machine, though occasionally, I'll do some meticulous hand embroidery on some of my items. Sometimes people don't notice it's hand-stitched, because it's so neat and tidy. My grandmother was a very crafty lady and she taught me a lot about sewing, finishing projects properly, patternmaking. She also encouraged me to be essentially fearless about the whole thing--you see something, just make a pattern, see what happens, make one! I've never taken a proper sewing class, but the sense of sewing adventure that I got from my grammy has driven me to more than make up for it on my own...

How did you find Etsy?: I found Etsy because I was a regular on http://craftster.org and a lot of people on there knew about it. I signed up on Etsy when it was just a month old, so I guess that makes me an old-timer. I was already in the process of setting up my online shop when I realized that hosting my shop on Etsy would actually be a much better idea.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: I love it that Etsy provides access to online selling to a wide variety of handcrafters, with a wide variety of experience and skill levels. It is an empowering feeling to make something with your own hands, and even more empowering to experience the exchange of value when you trade with others, or when someone buys that thing that you made. Etsy is really a terrific template and tool, it is what you make it, and it opens so many cool possibilities for people. I also love the variety of types of handmade items you can find--everything from jewelry, to handmade furniture, and blown-glass items. (I've also met some terrific friends on Etsy!)

2007-07-09T07:17:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Kim Mullen

Your Shop URL: www.fangobbles.etsy.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I have enjoyed making art and crafts since I was very young. I'm 32 and I've been married nearly 10 years. I'm a hip mom of three kids ages 6,9, and 10. My husband has a great job and I am lucky enough to be at home enjoying the kids. Besides artwork and crafts, I enjoy listening to music, hiking, reading, gardening, cooking, and unfortunately for my budget, shopping. We moved into an antique farmhouse a year ago which I'm still painting and decorating. I am never bored. During the school year I volunteer in the kids school.

Tell us about what you make: I make artwork, purses and totes, baby items and clothing, and whatever comes to mind I am always trying something new. I just love making things!!

How did you learn your craft?: I have been sewing since 7th grade home economics class. As a teen punk-rock/goth type sewing came in handy because at that time funky clothes were very hard to find. Whenever I wanted to learn a new technique I got a book about it. I have bought so many DIY books over the years I could fill a bookcase!

How did you find Etsy?: My crafty friend, Jami. Her shop is called "eclu".

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: On Etsy there are the widest variety of the most clever/creative things I've seen anywhere. I used to agonize over what to buy my Generation X friends for a gift ...no more! I mean they even have crocheted guinea pigs!! I love Etsy!!

Michele Wood -- Pandys

2007-07-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

Your Name: Michele Wood

Your Shop URL: http://www.pandys.etsy.com/

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I am a stay at home mom, I love to garden, read, sew, cross stitch, play with my kids, I have never been really good at just sitting still or housework.

Tell us about what you make: I make quilts, quilted bags, quilted coasters and beer quilts (tm)

How did you learn your craft?: My mom's mom always sewed...her nickname was Pandy, hence the shop name, and my mother sews and made all of my clothes for the longest time, she taught me to sew, but I think some of it was just "in the blood".

How did you find Etsy?: A friend told me.

What is your favorite aspect about Etsy?: The ease of having shop (I also love the social aspect, I've met some great people and the majority of the people are super helpful.

2007-06-28T13:12:00.000-04:00

NH Street Team Blog is a great place to get to know all sorts of amazing people and crafters from the wonderful state of New Hampshire that have "met" through Etsy.com

Not only will you be able to see some amazing handcrafted items made in New Hampshire you will get to know a little bit about all of us and learn what makes us all tick.

Thanks for checking to see what we are all about!!!