Member Artisan Feature: Sherry Dole Art

"Once upon a time there was a village in the land of Southern Mississippi USA. In a cottage surrounded by an enchanted Wild Garden of trees, flowers and many animals and birds there lived a joyful artist."* 

That artist is Sherry Dole, artist/owner of Sherry Dole Art.  A lifelong artist, Sherry turned pro 15 years ago. “I went thru a difficult time and creating art saved my life,” she explains.  

Also an avid gardener, animal lover, and costume and theatre history buff, Sherry draws inspiration from both nature and history.

As an artist, her biggest challenge is time management. “I always underestimate how long a project will take since my paintings are so labor intensive,” she says. The effort is worth it though, when people tell Sherry how her paintings make them smile and feel good.

Her work has been featured in art shows and galleries across the United States. Hundreds of her pieces are at home in private collections in the U.S., England, Scotland, Ireland, France and Costa Rica.  In addition to her paintings, her Etsy shop offers giclee prints and polyresin sculptures.

Other skills she’d like to explore include computer, digital photography, typing. Says Sherry, “This list could go on forever – I’m always learning!”

Louisiana is important to Sherry. “Growing up in south Mississippi meant New Orleans was always the place to celebrate special occasions, dates and vacations,” she elaborates. “Early on, I fell in love with the history, the people and the wonderful festivals of Louisiana.”

Be sure to check out Sherry's Etsy shop where the proceeds from certain items benefit The Gulf Restoration Network.

To learn more about Sherry Dole and her art, visit:

Her Etsy shop: http://www.sherrydoleart.etsy.com/

Her blog: http://sherrydoleart.blogspot.com/

http://www.theartofsherrydole.blogspot.com/

On Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/SherryDole
On Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/sherrydole,
On Zazzle: http://www.Zazzle.com/SherryDole

* quote excerpted from the shop page of Sherry Dole Art on Etsy.com

Camellia City Market Wants You to Know

Member Artisan Profile: Black Dog Studio

If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit Black Dog Studio, I encourage you to do so. This shop features pen and ink, &/or colored pencil drawings, some painting, a little handmade polymer clay jewelry. Artist Leah has been drawing since early childhood and it’s in her blood. “My first memory is at three years old my Mom gave me a pen to draw on the paper on the exam table in the doctor's office to calm me down,” she explains. Her grandmother, mother and sister are all very creative. Art is “just what we did,” said Leah.

When asked about her favorite piece, she has a hard time choosing but prefers colored pencil drawings on black Stonehenge paper, featuring a metaphorical image. Leah’s biggest challenge is one to which we can all relate: not having enough time! And yet, it’s important for her to carve out the time necessary to tap into her creative energies. “If I don't do it, I start getting coo-coo, so it is kind of like having to eat or breathe for me,” she says.


She offers the following advice to other artists/sellers: “Focus on what you love to do, don't spend lots of time on something just to sell it (easier said than done if you are really trying to get some sales going to continue your craft). Another thing...don't feel like you need to do art in one particular category. Artsy minds are eclectic! Feel free to experiment with different media and not feel pinned in to one medium.”


Leah’s connection to Louisiana is strong: she was born and raised in Baton Rouge. “I love the natural environment,” she says, “we are so very lucky to have such a beautiful place to live.” In fact, she draws much of her inspiration from nature, as well as ancient art and “peeps like Matisse, Van Gogh, and my fave Walter Anderson.”

One skill she’d like to learn is “PATIENCE! And silk painting.”

Perfect for the holidays, be sure to check out Leah's line of ornaments.

To learn more about Leah’s art, visit the following sites:

http://blackdogstudio.etsy.com/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackdogstudio

Member Artisan Profile: Jodie Flowers

Meet Jodie Flowers, winner of the Handmade Louisiana’s second Craft-a-Long (theme: "Education, School and Learning"). She is the artist/proprietor of Jodie Flowers - Animal Flowers Art Studio. Jodie is a true Renaissance woman! Her creations include mixed media, sewing, ceramics, polymer clay, among others.

When asked how she got her creative start, Jodie replies, “My mom basically built the house I grew up in from scratch. She combined two old shacks and fixed them up with tons of salvage stuff from New Orleans. She taught me to sew and I used to make clothes for my dolls when I was little. I loved making things with paper and scotch tape too. Then I went on to school and thought I wanted to go into journalism (because I love to write too). Liked it [writing] in high school, but in college, things took a turn and all I wanted to do was to take every Art class available. I stayed in college for seven years just making stuff. I graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from SLU.”

Monster Patch

Jodie finds inspiration all over, including from her son, cartoons, nature, the sea, bugs, poems, Dr. Seuss, Tim Burton, Alice in Wonderland, Shell Silverstein, Maurice Sendak, Flickr, and “my mind's eye.” This explains the wonderfully eclectic nature of her body of work.

Her favorite pieces include her Crazy Leg Wall Vases and Screen Porch Spiders. Also popular are her monster patches. And let’s not forget her winning Craft-a-Long entry: Book Bugs.

Crazy Leg Vases

The best thing about being an artist, Jodie explains, is “doing what I love, when I want to and always having $$ in my pocket for myself, my husband and my son.”

When asked what she finds most challenging about being an artisan, Jodie says, “Juggling being a Mom, Wife, Daughter, Friend, and a full time Artist, when all I want to do is create all the time. If I had an island I could seclude myself on, I would!”

Jodie has this piece of advice to offer her fellow artists: “Promote, Promote, Promote! Tell everyone about your work, take chances and make something every day!!!”

What’s next for Jodie? One skill she’d like to learn is lampwork (glass bead making) and knitting. “I wish I could knit something more than a long scarf and learn to bind them all off properly. LOL!” she says.

Winning Craft-a-Long Entry: Book Bugs

Jodie explains her Louisiana connection: “I was not born here. I was born in Ismir Turkey, but my mom and dad are from here. My dad was a dentist in the Army, they returned to Louisiana when I was very young and I have lived here ever since.” She’s lived in Baton Rouge, Jackson, St. Francisville, Zachary, Hammond and now Abita Springs. “Louisiana is nice. I have traveled to some great places and this seems to be the place for me,” Jodie says. “You can make friends easily here. The weather could be cooler, but as long as there is AC, I am fine where I am.”

Visit Jodie online at:

http://www.jodieflowers.etsy.com/
http://www.jodieflowers.webs.com/
http://www.jodieflowers.synthasite.com/
http://www.waterstreetpottery.com/
http://www.lalunaarts.com/
http://www.twitter.com/jodieflowers
http://www.myspace.com/jodieflowers

First Craft a Long Winner Is...........

Ooh La La...Louisiana by BDOriginals!! Congrats!!

BDOriginals had 34% off the vote, which was on the sidebar of our blog. Congratulations!! Thank you everyone who entered and keep posted because another Craft a Long is in the works!!

Our winner will receive a free ad on our blog for one month, please email amy@handmadelouisiana.com for deatils!

Thanks for voting everyone!! If your fave did not win, make sure you VOTE next time! Not only that, but spread the word! Use facebook, Twitter, and more to promote YOUR favorite artisan!

Our Winner:

Member Artisan Profile: By Apryl

It gives me great pleasure to introduce Apryl, artist and owner of Original Creations By Apryl. Her favorite medium is wire, and she specializes in wire tree sculptures available exclusively online (links below). Check out her stunning cake topper:

She began creating five years ago when she opted not to finish her college education. Looking for a new challenge, she was inspired in part by a friend who had an online business. Apryl says, “I was fortunate enough to have a grandmother who created wire trees and a grandfather who did wire wrap jewelry. They took the time to teach me what they knew and it has become my full time job!”

One of the perks of being a self-employed artist/business woman is total freedom. “I love that I don’t have to work for anyone else or leave the house,” she explains. “It’s horrible and true! I never worked well with others and every job I’ve ever had I’ve always just viewed as temporary. Most days I’m in my pajamas ALL DAY and I love it!”

When asked about inspiration and the creative process, Apryl responded, “I would say that I have whims that excite me so much I have to drop what I’m doing to work on them! I kind of live in a bubble and make things up as I go. I never plan, I just let things fall together as they will. It seems to work.”

Indeed it does! Apryl’s business doubled last year and during the prior year. However, with the downturn in the economy, she’s not seeing growth this year. In response, Apryl is focusing on one-of-a-kind custom orders, rather than trying to launch new lines.

“Lately, I’ve been looking to become less of a business woman and more of an artist,” she explains. “Creating something totally new and different has really gotten me excited. Right now my favorite piece is the one I’m working on, a tree with a beachy shell theme! Tomorrow it could be something to do with wood, or gravel, or some rock I found…who knows!"

When asked what skill she would most like to learn, Apryl says, “Patience! I have none at all. If I’m not busy every second of the day I get a little crazy. I’m sure you meant a business or a craft skill but honestly, patience is all I wish for!”

Her biggest piece of wisdom for other artists is to develop photography skills that showcase one’s items. While pleased with her current photos, Apryl says she’ll be re-taking them over the next week or two because, “I think they can be better!”

Apryl is a transplant to Louisiana. She and her husband reside in Bridge City, which is near New Orleans. She’s originally from West Virginia and lived in New York until her husband found a job here a few years ago. “We really love it here,” Apryl says, “and plan to stay until he retires or we get washed away!” Spoken like a true Louisianian.

To view Apryl’s creations, check the following links:
http://byapryl.com/
http://byapryl.etsy.com/

You can read Apryl’s blog: http://byapryl.blogspot.com/

Member Artisan Profile: Gabrielle Acres

I'm pleased to introduce you to Gabrielle, who works with organically grown herbs to create bath and body products that are both healthy and pure. Gabrielle has been working with herbs for about fifteen years.

She and her husband own a small herb nursery called Gabrielle Acres Farm in New Iberia. About seven years ago she began making soy candles, but longed to make soap. After a life changing accident at her local farmers' market five years ago, Gabrielle realized how important it is to try to accomplish and fulfill one's dreams.

Gabrielle loves soapmaking and the history of herbs. She finds it peaceful to spend time growing and collecting herbs to use them in her creations. For inspiration, she loves to read books and visit websites to learn more about her craft.

When asked if she has one favorite item that she makes, Gabrielle replied, "I love all of my soaps, but one favorite is my Organic Rose Garden Soap and a new one that I am really excited about is my Spiced Organic Apple Soap." Another new item is soap made with organically grown cucumbers and organic yogurt.

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With four children and eleven grandchildren, Gabrielle's home is very busy with family and friends. In addition to her bath and body business, she teaches piano privately in her home. She admits that one of her greatest challenges is trying to schedule quiet time to allow the creative juices to flow.

One skill Gabrielle would like to learn is is how to better photograph her creations. When asked to provide one piece of advice for other sellers, Gabrielle offers this: "Enjoy what you do, spend time in study and research, and give it time.

Gabrielle's connections to Louisiana run deep. She explains, "We [she and her husband] were both born in New Iberia, LA. During our early marriage, we lived in California and Illinois while my husband was in the Air Force. At these times, I realized what a wonderful state we have. We lived in the Mojave Desert in California and I missed the rain so much!!"

In addition to growing herbs, during the summer, Gabrielle grows tomatoes, which her husband brings them to the local farmers' market in New Iberia. Gabrielle and her husband have a pecan orchard and love the fall months when the family, incuding two daughters, goes out to pick pecans. They crack and sell pecan halves during the fall and early winter months. There are also bees on the pecan property and Gabrielle's husband brings native honey to the market.

Gabrielle sells her high quality bath and body items both online and off. She usually has a booth at Earth Day in Baton Rouge and at the Sunset Herb Festival in early May. She also sells from her home, where she has a room with her items displayed.

Here's how you can learn more about Gabrielle and her fabulous creations:

Her website: http://http://www.gabrielleacres.com/

Her Etsy Shop: http://www.herbfriend.etsy.com/

Her Artfire Shop: http://www.gabriellenatural.artfire.com/

On Twitter: herbfriend

Her Blog: http://www.gabriellesgarden.blogspot.com/

Member Artisan Feature: Southern Voodoo

Meet Michelle, the artist behind the Etsy shop, Southern Voodoo. She has been creating fun, high quality hair accessories for two years. Michelle's unique designs have an architectural quality that goes beyond the traditional bow!

Louisiana-born and raised, she finds inspiration for her ribbon art clippies everywhere. Her nature themes include the crawfish, crab, bumblebee, frog, among others. For foodies, there are ice cream cones and strawberry clips. You'll even find people, in the form of a cheerleader, or ballet dancer.


A big LSU fan, Michelle's favorite creation is the LSU Tiger Head clippie found on her Bayou Bows n More website. She also has an LSU woven ribbon headband.


While it's sometimes a challenge finding time for both creating and her family, she says her favorite work perk is, "I get to stay home with my daughter and be home for when my son comes home from school."

When asked whether she had one piece of advice for other handmade sellers, she replies, "Don't sell yourself short."

Check out Southern Voodoo's beautiful creations at her Etsy shop, Southern Voodoo, and at her Bayou Bows n More website.

Member Artisan Feature: Cheese and Chocolate

“CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE” - That is the inspired name of Merry Rubins’ shop. She and her daughter Robyn sell jewelry, art and knitted animals.

Merry makes the jewelry. She and her daughter both knit. In fact when we get together for our “Handmade Louisiana” group meetings, Merry always brings along her knitting basket. She somehow manages to knit and talk at the same time without ever missing a beat on either one. Go Merry! (I can’t seem to walk and chew gum at the same time!)

Her jewelry pieces are feminine and graceful. Her wire-wraps, precise; and she doesn’t mind doing lots of them, making some pretty pieces with lots of movement. She also seems to have a good sense for color-mixing, as seen in the necklace below.


She states that right now she is leaning towards pearls in her designs and considers the Marissa necklace (above) and the matching earrings http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23366066 to be her current favorites, though she loves all of her creations. Some of her other favorite materials to work with are crystals and sterling silver.Merry says she has been crafting as long as she can remember and has been making jewelry for about five years. When asked how she started in jewelry-making she says that while on vacation she purchased a necklace. She was so intrigued with it that when she got home she took a jewelry making class at a local bead shop, and "the rest is history".

“My biggest challenge in jewelry making”, she says, “is saying “no” to myself in a bead shop. I love all of the colors and shapes and want to buy them all.”

Merry finds peace in her jewelry making and says “I find making jewelry very calming. I can become very focused on the items before me and can even tune out any fights between my daughters.

Many things inspire her to create - Books, TV, Magazines, Nature, Color...

One thing Merry would like to do is use Precious Metal Clay to create unique jewelry pieces. She has taken one class and is anxious to learn more.

Merry has been a resident of Louisiana since 1976. Her husband is from New Orleans. When she graduated from LSU, they decided to stay in the area. She says, “Louisiana offers so much in the way of culture and diversity. We have things here you cannot find anywhere else in the world. It moves to a beat all its own.”

Merry has a second shop called Working the Stash. Here she carries destash supplies, which at the moment are rubber stamps. You can check it out here: http://www.workingthestash.etsy.com/

When asked if she had any advice for other sellers, Merry says,“I guess I would say make what you love. I am not one to make a piece purely because it might sell, or to follow a trend. I want to make jewelry that will be lovely long after the trends have changed.”

Come visit with Merry! You can find her here... http://www.cheeseandchocolate.etsy.com/
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.artfire.com/
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.1000markets.com/
http://www.workingthestash.etsy.com/
http://cheeseandchocolate.byhand.me/
http://welovecheeseandchocolate.blogspot.com/
Cheese and Chocolate fan page on Facebook

~~Article Written by DazzleMe

Twitter Anyone?

Many of our members have Twitter and/or Plurk accounts. It is a wonderful way to get to know the person behind the items you love. It is also a great way to find out about wonderful new creations or sales. Check out these members by following them on Plurk or Twitter.

Mama's Little Monkeys/Fleur de Ink/Amos Amelia Soaps/Destash City- http://www.plurk.com/mamaslittlemonkeys
Mama's Little Monkeys/Fleur de Ink/Amos Amelia Soaps- http://www.twitter.com/fleurdeink
Debi Deaux Designs- http://www.twitter.com/debideaux
Gabrielle Acres- http://twitter.com/Herbfriend
Miss Malaprop- http://twitter.com/MissMalaprop
Embellished Bayou- http://www.twitter.com/embellishbayou
Andrea Evans Designs- http://www.twitter.com/aevansdesign
Lynne Anne's- http://www.twitter.com/lynneannes
Design Studio 504/Supply Studio 504- http://www.twitter.com/designstudio504
Andrea Evans Design- http://www.twitter.com/aevansdesign
Lemon Jitters- http://www.twitter.com/lemonjitters
Art by Mags!- http://www.twitter.com/artbymags
5 O'Clock Crows- http://www.twitter.com/5oclockcrows
Nomolos Designs- http://www.twitter.com/nomolosdesigns
Miss Malaprop- http://www.twitter.com/missmalaprop
Koala Bear Creations- http://www.twitter.com/koalacreations
Amazing Art Photos- http://www.twitter.com/amazingartphoto
JMS- Magazine Street Designs- http://www.twitter.com/magazinejms
Chloe Boutique- http://www.twitter.com/chloeboutique
Charmaine's Boutique- http://www.twitter.com/charmainesbutiq
New Orleans Umbrella Company- http://www.twitter.com/lizmpetro
Stitches in Cotton- http://www.twitter.com/stitchesincotton

Where Can You Purchase Our Wonderful Items?

We have many excellent artisans as members of Handmade Louisiana. The listings below offer you some options on where you can find your favorite items.

-Art-

Art by Mags!- Urban folk art for the masses
http://www.artbymags.com/
http://www.artbymags.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- In Exchange, Storyville

Bluebird Art- Creations inspired by nature, dreams and the subconscious mind
http://www.bluebird-art.com/
http://www.bluebirdart.etsy.com/

BOLOdesigns- Art created from recycled materials
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BOLOdesigns

Cheese and Chocolate- Original works of art and jewelry
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.etsy.com/

CT Studios- Art and accessories for you and your home
http://ctstudios.artfire.com/

EvesJulia12- June bug art
http://www.evesjulia12.etsy.com/

Knotaway- Photography, printmaking, tatting, lace, paintings...
http://www.knotaway.etsy.com/

Nichole Paints!- Vivid art for your home or business
http://www.nicholepaints.com/
http://www.ashtonatelier.etsy.com/

Noulou Illustrations- Daydreams, and doodles, created for children (and their parents)
http://www.noulouillunstrations.com/
http://www.lilab.etsy.com/
http://www.noulou.bigcartel.com/

Original Creations by Apryl- Handcrafted gemstone wire tree sculptures
http://www.byapryl.com/
http://www.byapryl.etsy.com/
http://www.byapryl.artfire.com/

Play of Light Studio Designs- Art, jewlery, sculpture
http://fineartamerica.com/artwork/tag/jodi+marze+kass/

Sherry Dole Art- Original animal paintings and prints
http://sherrydoleart.etsy.com/
http://www.zazzle.com/sherrydole*

Southern Heart Gallery- American contemporary folk art
http://www.folk-art.com/
http://www.southernheart.etsy.com/

Vintage Snaps and Scraps- Altered expressions...inspired by the past
http://www.vintagesnapsnandscraps.com/
http://www.vintagesnapsandscraps.etsy.com/

-Bath and Beauty-

2 Virgos Designs- Premium handcrafted soaps and such
http://www.2virgosdesigns.etsy.com/

Amelia Amos Soaps- Handmade soaps from the south
http://www.ameliaamos.etsy.com/

Embellished Bayou- Glycerin soaps
http://www.embellishedbayou.etsy.com/

Gabrielle Acres- Working with nature and herbs to create bath and body products
http://www.gabrielleacres.com/
http://www.gabriellenatural.artfire.com/
http://www.herbfriend.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Poncio's Tuxedos on Main Street in New Iberia, LA

Herb ‘n Development Handmades- Handmades by hands God made http://herbndevelopment.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/HerbnDevelopment

-Candles-

Sassy Soy Creations
http://www.sassysoycreations.etsy.com/

-Ceramics and Pottery-

Hurricane Pottery- Wheel thrown stoneware pottery with awesome glazes
http://www.hurricanepottery.com/
http://www.hurricanepottery.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Mandeville Trailhead Market

-Children-

Bayou Moon- Children's accessories and clothing
http://www.bayoumoon.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Spoiled Rotten in Monroe, LA

Bows for Belles- Boutique hair bows, snap clips, headbands, hats & more!
http://www.bowsforbellesshop.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- Sugar and Spice in Ocean Springs, MS; Oh Baby in Moss Point, MS; My Lil' Sunshine in Gauthier, MS; Home Sweet Home in the Singing River Mall in Gauthier, MS; Robin's Nest in Hurley, MS; Picket Fence in Vidalia, LA

Butterflies and Rainbows- An affordable custom clothing boutique
http://www.brkids.etsy.com/

Dazzle Me- Jewelry, photography, children's clothing, and handmade cards
http://www.dazzleme.etsy.com/
http://www.dazzleme.artfire.com/

Funski Munki- Fun clothing for the lil’ munki in your life
http://www.funskimunki.etsy.com/

GAR Sticks and String- Knitted and felted home accessories, animals, baby items
http://www.garsticksandstring.etsy.com/

Georganna and Company-Children's clothing and plush toys
http://www.georgannaandcompany.etsy.com/
http://www.hyenacart.com/georgannaandcompany

Girls Love Bows- Custom hair hows, monogramming & supplies boutique
http://www.girlslovebows.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Kinchen's

Hailey's Beads & Bows- A unique boutique
http://www.haileysbeadsandbows.etsy.com/
www.HaileysBeadsAndBows.com 
Retail location for items: 1st Saturdays at the free craft market in Clinton, LA

Hopscotch Square- Children's clothing and accessories to keep your child in the latest style
http://www.hopscotchsquare.artfire.com/
http://www.hopscotchsquare.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Evon and Suzette Designs in DeQuincy, LA

Lila’s Bowtique- Quality handmade hair bows and accessories
http://www.lilasbowtique.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LilasBowtique

KnitZy Handmade Fashion Accessories - one of a kind hats, scarves, headbands, collars and other hand spun and knitted accessories
www.KnitZy.com
sales@KnitZy.com

NOLA NUKS Embroidered Pacifier and Ponytail Holders
http://www.nolanuks.com
http://www.facebook.com/nolanuks
Retail locations throughout the New Orleans area

MagnoliasBoutique-unique children's clothing and  vintage chenille creations

http://www.etsy.com/shop/magnoliasboutique

Mama's Little Monkeys- Custom gifts for mom, baby, and more

http://www.mamaslittlemonkeys.artfire.com/
http://www.mamaslittlemonkeys.etsy.com/

My 2 Princesses Creations- Hair accessories, jewelry, and baby items http://www.simply2exquisite.com/
http://www.my2princesses.etsy.com/

Nana J of Nine- Handmade children's clothing
http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Nana-J-of-Nine_W0QQ_armrsZ1

Nap Mat Covers- Your one stop shop for nap mat covers

http://www.napmatcovers.etsy.com/

Pacha Mamma- Helping us to celebrate the 'Earth Mother' within ourselves
http://www.pachamamma.etsy.com/

Payte*Pie Accessory Boutique- Unique tutus, bows, clothes, and who knows!
http://www.paytepieaccessoryboutique.com/
Retail location for items- Jete Dance Studio in Prairieville, LA

PurseOnlyYours- Adorable clothing for girls
http://www.purseonlyyours.etsy.com/

Quibby’s Bows- Bows made to last throughout your little girls "bow years"
http://www.quibby84.etsy.com/

Rosella Claire- Custom creations
http://www.rosellaclaire.etsy.com/

Stitches in Cotton- 100% cotton clothing and accessories
http://www.stitchesincotton.etsy.com/
http://www.mommydee7.etsy.com/

Vivy's Closet- Whimsical clothing for little girls
http://www.vivyscloset.etsy.com/

-Embroidery-

My 2 Princesses Creations- Monogrammed travel mugs
http://www.simply2exquisite.com/
http://www.my2princesses.etsy.com/

Nanny Dot's Unique Baby Items- Handmade with pride and care
http://www.dacopeland.etsy.com/

Rosella Claire- Custom creations
http://www.rosellaclaire.etsy.com/

Spiffy Sprouts - The cutest stuff you've ever seen
http://www.spiffysprouts.com/
http://spiffysproutsnola.etsy.com/

-Fabric-

Destash City- Where my addiction is your gain
http://destashcity.artfire.com
http://www.destashcity.etsy.com/

-Floral-

Fleur De Ink- Custom flower pens
http://www.fleurdeink.com/

-Glass-

Debi Deaux Designs-Handmade flamework glass- beads, sculpture & wearable art
http://www.debideaux.com/
http://www.debideaux.artfire.com/
http://www.debideaux.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Art Market of New Orleans- Palmer Park in New Orleans, LA

Expressions On Glass- Say "I Love You" with a beautifully carved paperweight or vase!
http://www.expressionsonglass.com/
http://www.lindadale.etsy.com/

Hvnly Designs- Something unique with a New Orleans Flair, but with some METRY attitude thrown in for good measure
http://www.metrychick.com/
http://www.hvnlydesigns.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- in boutiques

-Graphic Design-

Rue Design- An eclectic mix of southern inspiration
http://www.ruedesign.etsy.com/

~Housewares~

5 O'Clock Crows- Resist patterned textiles, handmade quilts
http://www.5oclockcrows.etsy.com/
http://www.artfire.com/users/5oclockcrows

Art by Mags!- Urban folk art for the masses
http://www.artbymags.com/
http://www.artbymags.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- In Exchange, Storyville

Art on the Half Shell- Unique, one-of-a-kind timepieces for the oyster and seafood connoisseur and coastal enthusiast!
http://www.ArtOnTheHalfShell.net
http://www.artonthehalfshell.etsy.com

Barbs Macrame and More- Unique handmade gifts
http://www.barbsmacrameandmore.etsy.com/
http://www.barbsmacrameandmore.artfire.com/

CT Studios- Art and accessories for you and your home
http://ctstudios.artfire.com/

Etco- Handmade jewelry and paper bowls
http://www.etco.etsy.com/

Embellished Bayou- Hand painted frames and custom designs
http://www.embellishedbayou.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Lil' Miss Priss Boutique and Company in Shreveport, LA

Fleur De Ink- Custom flower pens
http://www.fleurdeink.com/

GAR Sticks and String- Knitted and felted home accessories, animals, baby items
http://www.garsticksandstring.etsy.com/

Geaux to Gifts- Decorative home fragrances
http://www.heaven-scent.net/
http://www.geaux2gifts.etsy.com/
http://www.shop-nola.com/

Louisiana Grown
http://www.imadveus1.etsy.com/

Merci Beaucoup Designs- Home accents and stationery http://www.mercibeaucoupdesigns.etsy.com/

Micro Mops--Keeping your world clean and pretty!
http://www.micromops.etsy.com
http://www.micromops.artfire.com

Rue Design- An eclectic mix of southern inspiration
http://www.ruedesign.etsy.com/

Special From Rachel- Creations for giving and decorating
http://www.specialfromrachel.etsy.com/

-Jewelry-

Barbs Macrame and More- Unique handmade gifts
http://www.barbsmacrameandmore.etsy.com/
http://www.barbsmacrameandmore.artfire.com/

Bayou Tatter- Beautiful hand knitted and tatted accessories
http://www.bayoutatter.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Feret Street Market in New Orleans

Bluebird Art- Creations inspired by nature, dreams and the subconscious mind
http://www.bluebird-art.com/
http://www.bluebirdart.etsy.com/

BOLOdesigns- Pendants with flair
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BOLOdesigns

Charmies- Beaded creations for all occasions
http://www.charmiesonline.com/
http://www.charmiesonline.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- Local boutiques

Cheese and Chocolate- Artisan jewelry
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.etsy.com/
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.artfire.com/

Chloe Boutique- Handmade jewelry from the bayou
http://www.wildlifer78.etsy.com/
http://www.chloeboutique.artfire.com/

CT Studios- Art and accessories for you and your home
http://ctstudios.artfire.com/

Design Studio 504- Island Bound collection
http://www.designstudio504.etsy.com/

Dazzle Me- Jewelry, photography, children's clothing, and handmade cards
http://www.dazzleme.etsy.com/
http://www.dazzleme.artfire.com/

Etco- Handmade jewelry and paper bowls
http://www.etco.etsy.com/

Flambeaux Design Company- A collection of unique handmade polymer clay and copper wire jewelry
http://www.flambeauxdesigncompany.com/
http://www.flambeaux.etsy.com/
http://www.flambeaux.artfire.com/
Retail location for items- Storyville New Orleans

Gaudet's Gems- Fine artisan jewelry in sterling silver
http://www.gaudetsgems.etsy.com/

Hailey's Beads & Bows- A unique boutique
http://www.haileysbeadsandbows.etsy.com/
Retail location for items: 1st Saturdays at the free craft market in Clinton, LA

JMS- Magazine Street Designs- Unique collaged pieces
http://www.magazinejms.etsy.com/
http://www.magazinejms.weebly.com/

Lemon Jitters- Handmade jewelry: vintage and repurposed materials
http://www.lemonjitters.etsy.com/

Lisa Raspino Handcrafted Jewelry- Artisan jewelry
http://www.lisaraspino.com/
http://www.lisaraspino.etsy.com/
http://www.lisaraspino.artfire.com/
http://www.lisaraspino.1000markets.com/

McKenzie’s Designs- Unique and one of a kind
http://www.mckenzies.biz/

Precious Metals- Handmade artisan jewelry
http://www.preciousmetals4u.etsy.com/

Redhead Lady Collection- Eat, drink and wear jewelry
http://www.louieandtheredheadlady.com/
http://www.redheadlady2.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Louie and the Redhead Lady Restaurant in Mandeville, LA

Savoy Truffle- from New Orleans with love...
http://www.savoytruffles.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- Magazine Metals in New Orleans, LA; GOGO Jewlery in New Orleans, LA; Fifi Mahony's in New Orleans, LA

Sweet Madelyn's Boutique- Bitty bracelets and other jewelry
http://www.sweetmadelyn.etsy.com/
http://www.sweetmadelynsboutique.com/

-Clothing and Accessories-

Badge Reels-- ID holders, keychains, lanyards. You're at work, might as well look good!
http://www.badgereels.etsy.com
http://www.badgereels.artfire.com


Bayou Tatter- Beautiful hand knitted and tatted accessories
http://www.bayoutatter.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- Feret Street Market in New Orleans

CT Studios- Art and accessories for you and your home
http://ctstudios.artfire.com/

DL Creations- Largest selection of rhinestone transfer designs in New Orleans
http://www.rhinestonefetish.com/

JMS- Magazine Street Designs- Unique collaged pieces
http://www.magazinejms.etsy.com/
http://www.magazinejms.weebly.com/

KnitZy Handmade Fashion Accessories - one of a kind hats, scarves, headbands, collars and other hand spun and knitted accessories
www.KnitZy.com
sales@KnitZy.com

Knotaway- Photography, printmaking, tatting, lace, paintings...
http://www.knotaway.etsy.com/

Lady Fleur Designs- Designs are inspired by the southern lady - reflecting simplicity with sophistication
http://www.ladyfleurdesigns.com/
http://www.ladyfleur.etsy.com/

Miss Malaprop- Indie finds for your uncommon life
http://www.missmalaprop.com/
https://www.shopmissmalaprop.com/cart.php?m=product_vendor_list&v=2

My Three Blind Mice- Handmade crochet items and vintage glass http://www.mythreeblindmice.etsy.com/

New Orleans Umbrella Company- Original hand decorated umbrellas
http://www.lizmpetro.etsy.com/
http://www.artfire.com/users/NewOrleansUmbrellas
Retail location for items- Lost and Found in New Orleans, LA

Pamela’s PNW Creations- Beautiful accessories from beautiful fabric
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PamelasPNWCreations
Retail location for items- Harrison Medical Center Gift Shop

Pretty 'n' Preppy- Pretty, functional, preppy tote bags, key fobs, water bottle wraps, and much more
http://www.prettyandpreppy.com/
http://www.prettynpreppy.etsy.com/

PurseOnlyYours- Beautiful crocheted purses
http://www.purseonlyyours.etsy.com/

She Loves Me Not Clothing Company- Handmade clothing and accessories for you
http://www.cuteshirtgirl.etsy.com/
Retail location for items- The Foundry Square on Magazine Street in New Orleans

Splendiferous Fiber- Wearable art and accessories
http://www.splendiferousfiber.etsy.com/
http://www.splendiferousfiber.artfire.com/
http://public.fotki.com/wlstarn/
Retail location for items- Alexandria Museum of Art gift shop in Alexandria, LA

Stitches in Cotton- 100% cotton clothing and accessories
http://www.stitchesincotton.etsy.com/
http://www.mommydee7.etsy.com/

SuperDuper- Couture cocktail hats, feathered headpieces, bridal & unique hair accessories
http://www.annmariepopko.com/
http://www.superduper.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- Fifi Mahony's and House of Lounge (both in New Orleans)

Trapped In Time Designs- Custom and ready made costumes, clothing and accessories
http://www.trappedintimedesigns.etsy.com/

-Men’s Clothing and Accessories-

Bow Tie Ben- Custom handcrafted bow ties
http://www.bowtieben.etsy.com/

KnitZy Handmade Fashion Accessories - one of a kind hats, scarves, headbands, collars and other hand spun and knitted accessories
www.KnitZy.com
sales@KnitZy.com

-Paper Goods-

Bayou Moon- Party supplies and children's clothing and accessories
http://www.bayoumoon.etsy.com/

Dazzle Me- Jewelry, photography, children's clothing, and handmade cards
http://www.dazzleme.etsy.com/
http://www.dazzleme.artfire.com/

Merci Beaucoup Designs- Home accents and stationery
http://www.mercibeaucoupdesigns.etsy.com/

Noulou Illustrations- Daydreams, and doodles, created for children (and their parents)
http://www.noulouillunstrations.com/
http://www.lilab.etsy.com/
http://www.noulou.bigcartel.com/

WStoreyCreations- Greeting Cards and other goods
http://www.wstoreycreations.etsy.com/

-Pets-

2 Virgos Designs- Primo's Pawtourage dog themed soaps
http://www.2virgosdesigns.etsy.com/

Scrivener's Retreat- Handmade toys for pets and people
http://www.scrivenerferret.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- Wagging Tail in Santa Monica, CA; Optimal Pet Foods in Calgary, AB, Canada

-Photography-

Amazing Art Photos- Sharing the beauty of everyday things through photography
http://www.amazingartphotos.com/
http://www.amazingartwork.net/

Bird Cottage- Bringing bird photos to life
http://www.birdcottage.etsy.com/

Dazzle Me- Jewelry, photography, children's clothing, and handmade cards
http://www.dazzleme.etsy.com/
http://www.dazzleme.artfire.com/

Lightworld Photo Art - limited edition color photos
www.lightworld.org
ze@lightworld.org

Rue Design- An eclectic mix of southern inspiration
http://www.ruedesign.etsy.com/

-Plants-

Gabrielle Acres- Seeds grown organically
http://www.gabrielleacres.com/
http://www.gabriellenatural.artfire.com/
http://www.herbfriend.etsy.com/

-Supplies-

CharmPacks- Quilting supplies
http://charmpacksplus.com/

Destash City- Where my addiction is your gain
http://destashcity.artfire.com
http://www.destashcity.etsy.com/

Nanoo Designs- Children's clothing e-patterns
http://www.youcanmakethis.com/info/authors/1039293363
http://www.nanoochildrendesigns.etsy.com/
Retail locations for items- All Brands Stores(Louisiana); Sew Blessed Fabrics (Hahira, GA)

Supply Studio 504- Eclectic mix of jewelry supplies
http://www.supplustudio.etsy.com/

Working the Stash- Destash rubber stamp supplies
http://www.workingthestash.etsy.com/

-Toys-

Cheese and Chocolate- Knitted animals
http://www.cheeseandchocolate.etsy.com/

GAR Sticks and String- Knitted and felted home accessories, animals, baby items
http://www.garsticksandstring.etsy.com/

Georganna and Company-Children's clothing and plush toys
http://www.georgannaandcompany.etsy.com/
http://www.hyenacart.com/georgannaandcompany

Mama's Little Monkeys- Custom gifts for mom, baby, and more

http://www.mamaslittlemonkeys.artfire.com/
http://www.mamaslittlemonkeys.etsy.com/

-Vintage-

My Three Blind Mice- Handmade crochet items and vintage glass http://www.mythreeblindmice.etsy.com/

Spanish Moss Vintage- Vintage and supplies southern style
http://www.spanishmoss.etsy.com/

Artisan Features Coming SOON!

Hi all! Don't forget to get active in the forums (click the lovely fleur de lis on the right there---->) and make sure you post in the artisan features section if you'd like to be featured. Instructions on how to do so are there. Then, please be patient! I have a lot on my plate and it takes time to write up a good feature! I don't like Q&A features, so I write them article style.

~*~*~
We had a meeting on May 4th...Okay, Merry and I had a meeting... and that's okay! We all have lives, crazy lives, and we can only do with what we can! That is why the forums are so important! I HIGHLY encourage you to jump right in, chat wherever you feel like. It's easy to keep up with new posts by simply clicking the 'new posts' button once in the forums (and the new ones will be highlighed red). Posting at least ONCE a month is a REQUIREMENT of the group. We do not ask for money and not much of your time, so we feel this is something everyone can do.

We will have another meeting May 25th at 10 am in Covington. Please see the forums for more details.

You are also encouraged to work out your own local get togethers. These need not be anything official, but please feel free to contact members in your area and get together! Share idea, brainstorm, etc. If you have anything that will help the group, please share it on the forums. The Indie Handmade lifestyle is not just about business, but fun, family, friends and laughs!

~*~*~**~~*
Again, please feel free to email me any suggestions for the blog or any questions at mamaslittlemonkeys at yahoo.com or direct them through the portal/forums.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend and gets their creative juices flowing!!

~~~
Amy

Welcome!!

to Handmade Louisiana! This is a brand new blog for ALL handmade artisans in Louisiana! This is also a great blog for those who want to PURCHASE excellent handmade Louisiana items! We will have a fearless blog leader, Lisa, who you can find at www.lisaraspino.etsy.com, who will basically be your blog go-to gal!

Want to JOIN Handmade Louisiana? Then you can contact Merry at www.cheeseandchocolate.etsy.com or visit our BRAND NEW FORUM at http://handmadela.informe.com/portal.html

So come on down, get involved in Handmade Louisiana life and have fun!

~~AwesomeAmy
Admin/Group Owner