TheLuluBean

YAY for rad t-shirts!!

2008-10-17T23:10:00.000-07:00

I got my t-shirt from Saul at BareTree today!! I'm so happy with it. It fits so nicely and it's perfect!! I recommend his shirts even more now! Seriously, if you don't have any of his shirts, give him a try. You won't be sorry, I promise. : D

me in my super fly BareTree shirt

Thank you so much, Saul. I hope to buy many more!!

BareTree

2008-10-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

I come across a *lot* of sellers in the massive amounts of time that I spend on etsy, so it really takes something special to stick out. I ran into Saul of BareTree in etsy chat, and instantly went NUTS for his shop. There is literally nothing in that shop that I would not buy and wear on a daily basis.
He hand-screens each t-shirt, bag, or hat using an "eco-friendly water-based ink." And who doesn't like the idea of looking good without being an asshole to the environment? Take a peek at some of my favorites.....

Flying Gray Bird and Bare Tree Messenger Bag

The Tasty Fish T-Shirt

Bare Tree T-Shirt

Toothbrush Tank T-Shirt

Killing People Is Rude V-Neck T-Shirt

Saul can print almost any of his patterns on any style or color shirt you request. WooHoo for custom shirts! He uses American Apparel t-shirts, which I swear by because they are so soft and comfortable, but also are not made in sweatshops. And I don't know if you've heard, but sweatshops are no bueno.

(by the way girls, Saul is cute and single... just sayin.....)

Seriously though, his entire shop is fantastic. Go check it out HERE, and be prepared to fork over your dough.

Slackin!

2008-10-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

I've been really slackin on the blog lately. Unbelievable amount of stress going on up in here. So, I've decided to show you a few of my recent etsy favorites just to get this ball rolling a little.

Sugar Skull Girl print by badbird

How much do I love Andrea from badbird? I love her style, and she's super duper talented. She has a free monthly embroidery pattern and I eagerly anticipate the first of the month just because of it!
I am always completely impressed and in love with everything Andrea puts out, and this little sugar skull girl is no exception. I love the Dia de los Muertos celebration and I may just need to get one of these so it's Dia de los Muertos all year long!!

So Very Happy print by dazeychic

This print by dazeychic makes me smile. Gives me a lovely warm feeling inside. I've actually started throwing french fries out to the birds whenever I get them just because of this print.

Reinvented Rockin' Red Fairy Dress by jenellsrevenge

Found this dress by jenellsrevenge by checking out DIYscene. They have some seriously amazing and talented people there. This dress instantly grabbed my attention with the vibrant red. I've always loved slipdresses and I wish I fit into this or else it would be MINE. Absolutely gorgeous. (get more information and join DIYscene, please! they rock!!)

Illuminati Limited Edition print by MelodySage

Okay, no offense to anyone else on etsy, but.... MelodySage is my new favorite. I am completely awestricken by the detail in all her work. Go check out her shop and look at the detailed photos of each piece. It's insane! I can't imagine the amount of time and thought that goes into these things. I hope to own some of her work soon.

Sterling Silver Octopus Ring by westernmountain

I love love love looooove octopus. Octopi? Yes, I think that's it. This ring by westernmountain is super rad. The octopus completely wraps itself around your finger! How much cooler can you get??

Raindrop Hoodie by kachingdesign

Okay so this kachingdesign hoodie appeals to the emo in me. I find it to be incredibly unique. I especially love the raindrops on the hood. And hey.... It's on SALE too!!

City 44 Floating - Playable Art Mix 2.2 by gingerblah

Justin from gingerblah is honestly one of the coolest dudes *evah* and I am so glad he finally started adding items to his shop. I totally dig the idea of playable art. He makes a mix CD (the specific tracks are a surprise for the buyer) and does an original drawing on the front. The robot on this one is a definite favorite.

So yeah. LOVE LOVE LOVE all of these great items. Why wasn't I born rich instead of beautiful???

Weird.

2008-08-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

So I was looking on etsy today for the lady that makes stuffed deer heads for the wall, that are covered in cable knit. I wasn't sure how to find it so I just entered in 'taxidermy.'

What I found was.... astonishing. Finger bone necklaces, gold covered real squirrel hearts, human tooth jewelry, rodent skull barrettes, chicken foot earrings, etc. It was gross. Gross. Yes, yes, it's art. But.... gross. And I'm sure there's a buyer for every item, but... gross.

One item actually had the furry, whiskery head of a MOUSE. A real one! I cannot imagine wearing the head of a mouse around my neck. Honestly. What outfit does that go with? Does someone see that and think, "ZOMG! That would like totally go with my American Eagle polo shirt and khakis!" Really??

I suppose this is mean of me to post such things, and I'm sorry. The items themselves looked amazing, and of great quality. And were they not real, or had a stone or something instead of oh, say, a human TOOTH, they would be beautiful!

So yeah. Not for me. Or anyone else I know, for that matter. But, I will not deny their talent, and their love for what they all do definitely shows.

YAY ART!!

no news is good news

2008-08-17T15:44:00.001-07:00

Or something.

Yeah, pretty much nothing is going on.

Okay maybe I lied. I *did* get this fantabulous Justin Vining original... Through the Broken Glass. It's amazing. I can't wait until I can afford to buy more from him. He's a good guy. And he's from Valpo! That's maybe like, 40 miles? away from where I grew up! He even went to a rival high school. Ooooooh.
So yeah. Go check out his shop if you're ready to have your mind blown. You can also see his previous work and learn about the man at his site.

And I also discovered this super-de-duper photographer named Paul Pardue. Here are a few of my favorites:
From his ParduePictures etsy shop--
Rail
Flower Macro ACEO
Dusk Train
From his artnudephotography etsy shop--
Self Portrait (balancing on his arms... good lord!)
Black and White Nude

I know that he is trying to find models, so if any of yous happens to be in the Sacramento, California area, or know someone who is, please send them his way. He's got tremendous talent and is genuinely kind and sweet. Truly a professional.

And I hear he likes to cuddle.

So you can click on any of the above links to visit his sites or to contact Paul, or you can even contact me if you want. I don't bite.

Go to his sites and buy lots of stuff. Now.

2008-08-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

I am disgusted with myself.

If I could peel my skin off and run away right now, I would.

EGADS!

2008-07-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

Zappos just needs to give my paychecks directly to etsy. Honestly. The amount of money I spend on etsy is insane. You people need to stop making such cool shit! Now!

Recent purchases include:
Glue Guns vs. Real Guns
Sacred Heart necklace
Dinosaurs Are the New Robot

In other news, a new etsy team is on the horizon! I have teamed up with Alsatia from adorationsoap and Eddy of eddyizm fame to create Team AASSHAT! This stands for Artists Against Social Segregation, Hatred, and Totalitarianism. Ha Ha! Right now it is a flickr group only (go HERE to check it out or join), but we are working on getting it made into a full-on etsy team.
This etsy team obviously is named with tongue firmly in cheek, but we actually will have a purpose. We've discussed donating a certain percentage of our sales each month to a different charity. I'd also like to keep a running tally of the amount donated, just to show everyone that we may not take ourselves too seriously, but we do actually give a shit about something.
So yeah. Keep an eye peeled for that and contact me or go to that link above to join. It's already turned out to be a lot of fun.

Diabolical!!

2008-07-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

I think 'diabolical' is my new favorite word. It makes me think of those mustache-twirling cartoon villains, and saying "Mwah ha ha ha haaaaaaaa." Yeah, okay I'm strange.

And okay.... is it just me, or is it SUPER WEIRD when someone starts talking to you while you're in a public restroom? I walk in to the restroom at work and see a lady I was in my training class with. She's just walked in right before me, and says "Hi Shelby! How have you been?" I say, "Just peachy, *Beulah!" And I think that is that. Go into the stall and proceed to pee. Hey. It's a restroom story, you had to see it coming. And all of a sudden, Beulah calls out from her stall, "SO! This humidity is really somethin', isn't it!" I sit there a second, questioning whether to answer cos its just so uncomfortable, and finally I give in to being nice and say, "Yeeeeah.... Thought I was in Indiana again for a second!" And Beulah proceeds to have a conversation with me through the bathroom stall.
Does anyone else find this awkward and odd? Or am I just weird? I don't like the idea of someone being around for when I pee. And I don't like being around for them to, either. Don't call me if you're going to the bathroom. There is nothing that important that it cannot wait the 2-10 minutes it may take you to finish. There is almost nothing more disgusting to me than hearing a flush on the other end of the phone. AND FOR GOD'S SAKE WASH YOUR HANDS!
Yeah, so, please comment and tell me your opinions on this cos I'm honestly wondering if I'm the only person that thinks this.

*= name has been changed to protect the innocent

Adding to the madness!

2008-07-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

Alright so after talking with my buddy Mike (of Mikeatron fame), and drooling over his artwork for what seems like forever... I decided to just go for it and bought a print from him. I really, really want an original but at the moment I can't afford it, sadly. He does these spectacular paintings of characterized versions of celestial bodies. His Castor and Pollux was pretty damned amazing, but I think the original may be gone already. Boo.

Here's the Spillbot print I bought:

I am completely awestricken at what comes out of this guy's brain. He says talent doesn't exist, it's all about practice. But I think he's just a humble man that pours his heart out onto a canvas, just like the robot above.

He has the kind of imagination I can only pray for. I look at his paintings, the tiny little details, and wonder what kind of time must have gone into it. Maybe I'm gushing. I don't know. But I am completely lusting over his whole shop.

And! Because of him, I now know what the words 'smarmy' and 'extrapolate' mean. Rad.

So go check out his shop. And give him your money. Lots of it.

yup.

2008-07-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

I just remembered the time in which my coworker asked me how to spell "I'm."

Yes, I'm serious. She even asked if it was a real word.
Sigh.

I want to go home.

2008-07-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

I'm at work. And its been boring. All. Day.

I bought some photos from eddyizm today. Two of them are for my mom, and one is for me. It will be a lovely addition to my growing collection. I've been quite touched by his photos, there's real feeling in them and I don't usually connect well with photography. Sure, a photo may be pretty, but Eddy's photos surpass beauty if you ask me. Look for him on etsy or look at his entire amazing portfolio at eddyizm.com.

Sue Me.

2008-07-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

Okay so I haven't posted in like.... forever.

I've been inspired by Fallon (my sister-in-law, Olive and MyVintageBackyard) to update my blog. I had no idea she was posting so frequently on her own. I gotta get my ass into gear. Makin me look bad and shit. Heh.

I just finished up a custom order and I'm quite proud of it! Here it is:
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9375051
I've been working on personal projects for so long that it's nice to make a little money. I also sold my blue pillow finally! I'm so excited I could just pee.
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9373512
I love selling stuff.

And I've lately been starting an art collection. I've seen such great art on etsy and I keep going back to the listings just to look at it and admire it, that I decided to just give in and buy it. With all of Jesse's weird, random collections, I figure its time I start my own so I have something nice to look at.
Here's a few of the items I've bought:
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9184413
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9150165
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=8494040

Sorry for all the links, I'm at work and don't have the ability to save images.
So far, my original art collections include lovely pieces from etsy sellers SoopaJDelux, MoTowne, ElinopusPhotography, AshleighMichelle, AshleySpatula, and SunRaven0. I also have some prints from TheBlackApple, AshleyG, sjane, and BarkingBirdArt.

Hopefully these will be future purchases:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12818595 (I am completely NUTS for this piece. As well as the artist's work in general.)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8188754
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11805779

Okay yeah my taste ranges from the super-saccharine sweet to the dark and creepy. I can't help it. I'm bipolar like that.

boygirlparty

2008-01-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller is......

drumroll pleeeeease....

www.boygirlparty.etsy.com

Ta Da!!!

I've only recently come across this shop but I've fallen hard! The colors used, and the non-fussy design of it all is so appealing. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Dueling Bears 5x7 giclee print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8676601

Black Tree Hoodie http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8473966

Olive Inky Octo zipper case http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8621280

Pianocto 5x7 giclee print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8697751

Brown Acorn Squirrel t-shirt http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8557595

See what I mean? Gentle colors, sweet pretty design.... it just makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Now go check out the shop and fall in love!!!

January 5, 2008

2008-01-05T12:07:00.001-08:00

Alright so after a hellish month of December, I have at last returned to the blog. I've been going through a bit of a creative rut, not many ideas coming into my head, and even less of them have been any good.

On the other hand, Christmas was actually pretty decent this year. I got just what I wanted.... some genuine attention from my husband. It's very hard on me to have my mom and brother so far away (they're in Indiana, I'm in Las Vegas), to have to sit in with my in-laws for their holiday celebration. As much as I love them, I've never quite felt like one of them. Always felt like an outsider when it came to Christmas and such. So it's been wearing on me.
And the dog got a little sick. Urinary tract infection or something. But we got her some antibiotics and all is well. I swear she is the world's most expensive dog. But worth every penny.

I got another skein of yarn from www.SunriseLodgeFiberStu.etsy.com and it was custom. I chose the colors, gray and aqua with a bit of silver sparkle. It is amazing. I don't even care what I make with it, I just can't wait to use it! I wound it into a big ball by hand last night, and it's so smooth and very consistent in its size all the way through. And the color is *divine*. This is definitely my favorite purchase from them yet. Probably the most beautiful yarn I've ever come across. These girls do such a great job, I want to promote them in any way I can!

I did manage to land a job, finally. I don't start until Jan.28 but that's okay. At least I have a date to look forward to. It starts at a bit less than what I was making at my last job, but you advance a lot faster. My best friend works there and she was making $14.95 after 6 months, whereas at my last job it took me nearly 3 years to get to $13.75. It's zappos.com, so I will be taking orders over the phone. Sounds pretty good to me. Plus, 40% off employee discount, so HELLO shoes!!

Okay it's time for today's seller.....

December 15, 2007

2007-12-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

I have been on such a roll lately! After suffering through a seemingly endless string of bad days and weeks, I have finally gotten some much needed good karma.
I may sound crazy when I say this, but ever since I started blogging about sellers and their items, the happenings around me are so positive! I've been surrounded by generosity and appreciation, and it's just so wonderful. This has put me in a better mood, and I guess it's shown cos I've gotten several interviews and two job offers in the last two weeks. All this after being unemployed and getting no calls for a month! I'm going to start working for zappos.com, where my best friend works already and loves her job. We'll have a desk right near each other, so we'll see each other every day! And there are so many perks.... it's really going to be great, I can't wait to start.
I've got to tell you about a few days ago, though. The best day in like, forever. Friday I got up and realized that my part-time job, Hot Topic, was having a 50% off everything employee discount. But that also included clearance items, which I had been eyeballing this whole wall of jewelry clearance. I'm talking, after discount, super sweet necklaces and hair items for $1!!! So I was excited to go there and do a little "Me Shopping", but first I had an interview with zappos.com. I rocked that interview so hard, they hired me on the spot! After that, I remembered I had to renew my car registration, so I reluctantly drove to the DMV. Wah wah waaaaah. But I got a smog check in like 2 minutes, and I got a parking spot *right* by the door, without having to drive around for 20 minutes beforehand! So I stroll in, and holy crap... NO LINE. I renewed my registration and was out of there in less than 5 minutes. How does this happen??? Okay so after the DMV I went shopping and with all the clearance stuff, I actually ended up getting more than 50% off cos it was $260 worth of stuff for $100. Wowza. THeeeeeeeen, I go home and find out that my beautiful dog, Lulu, was chosen to be in a Pit Bull rescue charity calendar for 2008! She's on the cover AND on the December page. So rad!! And theeeeennnnn my husband calls and says he wants to take me out to dinner at our favorite restaurant, and it's going to be free! WooHoo for casino comps!
How awesome of a day is that? I haven't had a good day like that in so long, it really boosted my spirits.
And remember the generosity I told you about? Etsy has been so kind to me. OctopusMe's giving spirit and good nature is so wonderful. She's truly appreciative of the things around her and she's such a positive person! It's so nice to talk to her, cos it's calming and refreshing to see someone who is so content and thankful.
Then there's SunriseFiberLodgeStudio... my major etsy weakness! I try to avoid the shop cos every time I go in, I end up NEEDING to buy something. I'm not talking like, Oh that's pretty I'll think about buying it. I'm talking, I neeeeeeed this yarn like I need air. So I go in today, just to take a peek. And I find this:

It's called AfterMidnight. It's black with a silvery nylon sparkle. However, the price was listed a few dollars more than I had in my PayPal account. So I begged her to look at my shop and see if she'd be willing to trade me for the difference in the price, and she said that since I was such a loyal customer that she'd call it even for me. I was so shocked and grateful! I am really so appreciative that I don't even have words for it.

Usually at this time of year, I am disappointed by the selfishness of people. But right now I am almost overwhelmed with the giving spirit of these great sellers, and it makes me realize that not everyone is as self-centered as I once thought. There are truly kind and wonderful people out there that aren't just out for themselves, and that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

To check out these shops go here...
http://www.OctopusMe.etsy.com
http://www.SunriseFiberLodgeStu.etsy.com

Happy Holidays, everyone!!!!!

SJane

2007-12-05T17:11:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!!!!!

www.sjane.etsy.com

FAB-U-LOUS!!!!!!!!
Illustrations so cute I wanna smack myself.

Bandit Badge http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6825424

Lady Bunny Necklace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7983607

Gossip Sticker Set http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5344064

Toothpaste Sticker http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7074844

Oh, Sarah.... How do I love your shop?

Sarah's illustrations and cutesy little guys are so adorable, I had to order one of her Bandit Badges myself. I had her put it onto a pendant instead, and she was super friendly. Very helpful. I, of course, HAD to feature her Lady Bunny Necklace, since my mom's a lady named Bunnie. And in the description of the Toothpaste sticker, she talks of her hate for the taste of the minty stuff. I could not agree more! It's awful!! The descriptions of her items give you a peek at Sarah herself. Super friendly, artsy, and down to earth.

I'm going to be *obsessed* with checking this site for new stuff. I hear she might do prints or something like that, so my fingers are crossed!!!

Lake

2007-12-02T23:34:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!!

www.lake.etsy.com

I'd like to think if I made jewelry, that it would be just like the beauties made by lake.

So pretty. So simple. So elegant.

Blossom Vines http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8141966

Caviar Ring- Custom Size http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7730975

Dragee Ring Pair size 6.25 http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8169553

Nonpareil Ring Pair- Custom Size http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7129629

I like that she got a few of the names-- dragee and nonpareil-- from sugar decorations for cakes. Dragees were always my favorite extra to use on the cakes I decorated as a kid. The oxidized silver in the Caviar ring (my favorite) is rich and lovely, and the matte-like finish on the Nonpareil rings is something I've never really seen before. Certainly not pulled of as gorgeous as this, that is. It's soft and soothing silver, rather than the shiny look of sterling people are most used to. Sort of reminds me of a wedding cake covered in fondant-- soft and incredibly smooth. She's got me thinking of sugar I can't help it!!

I am so fond of her jewelry. I realize it's pretty much one of a kind, but I can't wait to see more items in her store. I want to see what she comes up with next so I can add a new item to my list of stuff that I covet.

December 2, 2007

2007-12-02T23:27:00.000-08:00

I'm currently working on some new stuff for my shop. Got a scarf in the works, some painted mirrors that are looking SUPER, and some more pins. The mirrors are ones I got from my crafty friend Crystal, and I was like "Ooooh I could paint some cute stuff on those." So I am. I started with some pearl white paint and got an entirely different effect than I imagined. It is like a whitewash. Really beautiful. Reminds me of birch bark cos you can see the grain of the wood underneath it still. Very cool. Other than that, nothing too spectacular.
I still don't have a job. Gonna have to go work for the family at the boot store. I guess a paycheck is a paycheck. If I even get one! My husband says I probably won't even get paid! I really hope he's joking cos I wouldn't wanna work there during the craziest busy season (biggest rodeo of the year is held here every year) and not get something out of it. I would rather be at home making stuff for my shop.
I thought I was getting sick, but fortunately for me I believe it's passed. I have gotten two migraines in three days though. I was hoping that had passed also, cos I hadn't had one in a while. It was such a relief not to get them 3-4 times a week. I hope it hasn't started again.

GetIntimidnated

2007-11-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!!

www.GetIntimidnated.etsy.com

There are so many stuffies on etsy it's hard to choose. But this seller's creativity is seemingly endless. Most of the Mr. Beardsleys in her shop are in disguise. So it's like you get two dolls in one!

Mr. Richardton Beardsley http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8016684

Pimp the Chimp Beardsley http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7803585

Baby of Baby Beardsley- Yellow Smock http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7822389

Masked Man Sully http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8129500

Little Lammie http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7811319

I think it's so cute that the masked Beardsleys look like garden gnomes. Or even like those fuzzy dogs with the mustaches and beards, what are they... schnauzers? I don't know if it was intentional but it's great all the same. I would love to get one of those guys home and switch his disguises off and on, maybe getting a couple of them and trading up like I did with my brother's GI Joes when I was little.

I found this shop while looking up Smashing Pumpkins items on a whim, and I found Mr. Beardsley disguised as Billy Corgan. It was perfect, obviously the work of another Pumpkins fan. It was correct down to the Fender Stratocaster and the tiny orange belt. Of course I decided I must have this and let her know that it was the best thing ever created. Too bad you guys can't see it, it was really great.... but it's MINE!!

And just in case you haven't noticed, or couldn't really tell from the picture, the lammie doesn't have legs. Nope. None. Zero out of four. Why, I don't know. But it's funny and sad at the same time. Makes you want to take her home, huh??

Fat Daddy Bake Shop

2007-11-27T11:06:00.000-08:00

Featured Seller of the Day!!

www.fatdaddybakeshop.etsy.com

Got a sweet tooth? PMS? Forget that... Do you have eyeballs??? The first time I laid eyes on these wonderful little guys I fell in love. And started drooling.

Candy Cane Christmas Party Cupcake http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8058104

Plain Jane in a Party Dress Cupcake http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8100408

Berry Berry Dark Cupcake http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8092768

Cuckoo For Coconut Cupcake http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7933411

Sugar Daddy Cupcake http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8056379

Okay. Now close your mouth and wipe your chin off.

She's the type of person you pray you move next-door to. And she uses the highest quality ingredients in these little pieces of heaven, so you know she loves what she does. I am amazed at the originality this lady has. The twists on holiday favorites like sugar cookies and candy canes? Genius! I imagine she is always coming up with recipe ideas, waking up in the middle of the night to jot the newest scrumptious one down. She's sold over 1000 of them in just four months, so you know she's doing something right!!

The banner at the top of her shop page says "Fat Daddy Bake Shop Loves You."
Well, I'm pretty safe in saying the feeling is mutual. Mmmmmmmmmmm.

Nov. 27, 2007

2007-11-27T10:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I didn't post anything cos I went with my friend, Crystal, to lunch and then to her house to just sit around and do crafts. I knew this girl was crafty, but WOW. I felt like a kid in a candy store! I had no idea where to start. I'm talking every single craft you can think of, it's in her house and she can show you how to do it. Insane.
I recently told her to go check out etsy, and sell the things she's made, cos she's so good at all of it. Her things are so wonderful, I'd buy all of them if she'd let me. I can't wait for her to get her shop up and running so I can feature her. I think she's going to do very well.
As for me, she showed me how to make clips for your hair, so I think I'm going to try that out. I've been wanting to for a while now, I just wasn't sure how to attach the clips properly. I bought the cutest little tiny child-size clips in different bright colors so those will be fun to use. And then for adults I got basic black. Can't go wrong there.

Nov. 25, 2007

2007-11-25T17:28:00.000-08:00

So I've been told I should talk a little about myself on my blog as well. Share what's going on, how my day was, the etsy stuff I'm making. I have to admit it's a little strange. I'm not one to write out stuff like this.

I'll tell you one thing, though. I am NEVER moving again. Okay, maybe once since I can't stand the place I've moved to. But never again afterward. I hate every aspect of it. Because of moving, things I've kept bottled up for a while have uncorked and come to the surface. Very stressful times. And to top that off, I am unable to spend any time on what calms my nerves-- painting, knitting, or sewing. I just today got my internet back. I was without it for four days I think it was, and for me, that's like taking away oxygen.

I did, however, get a new phone. Well, new to me. I had a pink Razr. Which I hated. My uncle works for the company that I have service through and I told him at Thanksgiving, "I haaaate my phone. As soon as I'm available to upgrade, I'm so going to your store and you're gonna get me a good phone. And immediately after that, I'm going to back over my pink piece of crap with my car a few times, and then set the lousy thing on fire." His girlfriend then says that she just got a new phone and her old one is still working quite well, and if I want it I can have it. So I took it. It's got a full keyboard for texting (my preferred way to communicate), and I don't even care what else it's got, it's not a pink Razr!!! I am seriously thankful this Thanksgiving.

Bradli

2007-11-25T17:11:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!!

http://www.bradli.etsy.com/

Before etsy, I was afraid of handmade soap. Cos I heard a lot of jazz about, if you make it wrong it can burn your skin and blah blah blah. I was pretty content with my cucumber and green tea Dove bar. But after seeing some of the beautiful creations on etsy, I am intrigued. And have been wanting bar after bar after bar of it.

Coconut Cream Cake Scented Handmade Soap http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8042148

Handmade Soap-Vegan Pear Fig Scented- Limited Edition http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7906708

Kiwi Cold Process Soap- Handmade- Fresh Kiwi Added- Vegan http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7731537

Raspberry Lemonade Shea and Cocoa Butter Cold Process Soap http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7229939

So my girl, Bradli is from my home state, Indiana!! We're from opposite ends of the state, but we're still Hoosiers!! I recently ordered and received the coconut cream cake, raspberry lemonade, Corona Beer (gift for my brother-in-law Mick), and vanilla marshmallow. Every once in a while she does these outrageous sales and I just can't help myself. The Corona soap is so cute... it has salt all over it! Sure it's for exfoliation but that is just the cutest idea. The other scents are so wonderful, you almost wanna lick them! That's probably a bad idea though so I really don't suggest it.

I can't wait to draw a hot bath and lather up with one of them. I'm almost afraid to use them, they're so pretty! Check bradli out if you want any kind of bath product, she makes them all!

CarmelaJay

2007-11-21T11:39:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!

www.CarmelaJay.etsy.com

Let's go over a few things I am obsessed with.
*glitter
*skulls
*sacred hearts
*curls and spirals

CarmelaJay's items include all of the above. How could I NOT love them? Holy crap, they're awesome!! I go to her shop at least three times a week to see if she's got new items. They're so unique, and rich with culture.

Christina Corazon Vida http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6443586

Dead Pez Murphy http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7561735

Grover Corazon http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7657487

Koz Vida http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7548969

Ms. Parrot Vida http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7888328

The items in CarmelaJay's shop are inspired by the Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, it is a tradition to remember and celebrate the lives of those precious family members who have passed. It is often misunderstood, and thought to be gruesome or scary, when it's just the opposite. A beautiful ceremony to honor those that came before them.

I don't really know too much about the significance of the decorated skulls or the sacred hearts, but I recognize their beauty. CarmelaJay presents these pieces so beautifully that it makes me want to learn more about the history.

Plus.... They're SPARKLY!!!

MelissaMoss

2007-11-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!

http://www.melissamoss.etsy.com/

There is just no other way to put it. Melissa Moss and her art are just plain rad. The way she uses color is so calming, even if the painting features a nasty, toothy, sea-like creature. Swirls and dots and lines... so simple but yet so amazingly alluring.

Burden Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5896700

Lura Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7217573

Moon Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7968946

Oase Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7361885

Verlin Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7914640

One reason I haven't lined my entire home in her work?
I'm afraid I'd be drooling all the time. I can just stare at these prints, lavishing every wavy line, every spiral. You can definitely tell Melissa Moss studied color psychology in college. Her use of color is beyond doubt unlike anyone else I've seen.

So be warned... I'd get your prints framed immediately if I were you. I doubt they're drool-proof.

OIive

2007-11-19T10:12:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Seller!!!

www.OIive.etsy.com

Beauty. Whimsy. Variety. Birds.

OIive sure likes her birds. She's got several areas of specialty listed on her shop, but it's very apparent her fondness of the feathered creatures. I've only put one example of her fowl obsession below, but if you look at her site you'll see what I'm saying.

The 2nd Cutest Sheep Ever Pillow http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7957714

Out On A Limb Wall Hanging http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7345242

Painted Modern Pillow http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7858033

Village Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7366652

OIive is a real sweetheart. She loves Christmas so much that every item sold from November 3 to December 3, gets an entry into a contest. The winner gets a present picked straight from their favorites list. She truly appreciates her customers, and really shows it. OIive's items are more than just stuff that she's sewn together, they're little pieces of her. You can see the love she puts into every item, and I find her whole shop to be simply marvelous.

OctopusMe

2007-11-18T12:26:00.000-08:00

Featured Seller of the Day!!

www.OctopusMe.etsy.com

Okay so I have a thing for octopus. Octopi? Yeah.

This is creativity at its best. Usually when you think of an octopus, you see swirling arms, suction cups, an angry mouthless octopus face.... And OctopusMe utilizes the tentacles alone. The jewelry on this site is so captivating, I find myself looking at the site for what must be hours.

Small Curly Duo Unmatched- Octopus Tentacle Earrings http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7853173

Versatile OctopusMe Tentacle Ring http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7568068

Curly Octopus Tentacle Pendant http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7851684

3 Octopus Suction Cup Stacking Rings http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7629572

OctopusMe also provides a bit of education on the subject in their shop announcement and profile. I, for one, had no idea that an octopus will sometimes rip its own arm off and wave it around in order to distract their foes, because they can simply grow a new one! I know I'd be distracted if someone I was fighting ripped their arm off. Bitchin!!

My favorite is the tentacle necklace. I would love nothing more than to get one of these for Christmas. Or for no reason at all. Any takers?

Remember to stop in each day for a new, groovy featured seller. And also stop by my shop www.thelulubean.etsy.com if you like.

Beautiful Pottery.

2007-11-17T12:06:00.000-08:00

Today's featured seller is...

www.JMNPOTTERY.etsy.com

Jennifer Nesbitt makes the most beautiful pottery. Totally unique. I fell in love with the rust heart brooch (below) and begged her to make me a custom wall hanging. It's similar to the gray heart hanging (also seen below) and I could NOT be happier. She is such a sweetheart, so friendly to me when I approached her. And inexpensive!! I told her she should raise her prices. I'm sure Jennifer will be very successful with her pottery... how could she not??? It's amazing!!

Wheelthrown Three Point Swirl Serving Bowl moss green turquoise rust http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7228747

Wheelthrown Poison Skully Mug ARSENIC rust copper http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7474543

Handmade Spiked Heart Wall Art Opal Gray Purple Turquoise http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7836902

Handmade Spiked Heart Brooch rust copper http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7455077

Handbuilt Soap Dish with Spiked Heart and Feet black rust http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7711097

I sincerely hope to be making more purchases from her in the future. She is extremely talented, and so creative. I've never seen anything like her pottery before. Do yourself a favor and buy some of her pieces before she gets famous!!

LOVE her.

2007-11-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

Featured artist of the day.......

www.stoopidgerl.etsy.com

How much does Stoopidgerl rock? Well, she rocks my socks off.

Her photos have that dirty, ominous vibe but are also sweet and childhood-memory inducing. And her resin jewelry is fantastic. Glittery and girly, yet humorous and sometimes creepy. This chick has mastered the art of combining the pretty and the ugly.

Take Me To Candy Land Fine Art Holga Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7753671

Sweet Tooth Candy Sprinkles Resin Necklace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7661585

Swimcap Fine Art Print http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7702017

Rich Bitch Superstar Resin Necklace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7839907

Above all, her work is colorful, sparkly, thought-provoking, and beautiful. I truly wish I could buy her whole shop. She is obviously someone who thoroughly enjoys what she does, and it is reflected in her work.

Thank you, Stoopidgerl, for being so effing rad. Rock on with your frock on!

The first of many.

2007-11-15T10:51:00.000-08:00

Alright so here is my very first featured seller!

:: drumroll ::

http://www.sunriselodgefiberstu.etsy.com/

The girls at Sunrise Lodge Fiber Studio are so sweet. And their yarn is an absolute dream. So beautiful, so easy to work with. After using their handspun and hand-dyed yarn, I refuse to buy from Michael's anymore. I just bought my fourth skein of yarn from them and don't see me stopping anytime soon.

Isla Merada http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7613959

Wine http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=6377002

My current favorite, Peppermint Stick http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7867612

I am so in love with Sunrise Lodge Fiber Studio, I want to take a bunch of their yarn and just roll around in it. Okay maybe that's a bit much, but they are definitely a life-changer for me. They have introduced me to handmade yarn and now there's no turnin back!

What do you really do with these things??

2007-11-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

So I started this blog. Not really sure what you're supposed to say in them. I've never really been the type to write down my thoughts.

However, I did see someone else's blog today and really liked their idea. She featured items from etsy, Ebay, and other sites that she was obsessed with. I easily become obsessed with random stuff so I figure, hey that's a great idea! So I'm using it.

I'll be back with some random wonderful stuff. Stay tuned.