Ella Etc.

TiffanyDeMichele Quality Handmade Wigs and Extensions

2011-03-13T16:39:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you, but I think wigs are great. Some people have issues with their hair, or want to change it up but don't want to dye it/cut it/damage it, and I think wigs can just be really fun. You can go grandiose and funky colored, or just something simple that's longer or shorter than your own hair. Oh, the possibilities...

Tiffany DeMichele has a great shop on etsy selling her handmade wigs, and I must say there are several for sale that I wouldn't mind owning...

Like this one! A very cute & curly auburn wig. (And it can be heat-styled, so you could straighten it, too.)

...Or this one!

Check out Tiffany's shop, you're bound to find something that fits your style.

Lena Quist

2011-02-12T13:25:00.002-05:00

If you haven't heard about Lena Quist, it's about time you do.

Lena sells all kinds of fabulous and outrageous clothing...which is right up my alley!
You can check out here Etsy shop and see all of her lovely creations, like these

Lace Up, Stay Ups

or these Lightning Leggings

and how about these studded and chain fringed shoulder pads
A lot of her stuff has glam rock style to it, and is definitely for those who aren't afraid to be a little grandiose.
For those of you who are fans of Kat Von D, she was recently spotted in a pair of Lena Quist silver cross leggings (which are available here).
Having the typical college-student budget, these are a little out of my price range, but if you're like me you can always save up, add them to your Etsy favorites for later, or just covet from afar. Either way, Lena is sure to be one of the next big brands in alternative fashion.
...and if you don't know, now you know.

Galleria-T

2011-01-08T21:20:00.001-05:00

LAUNCHING JANUARY 9TH 2011
www.galleria-t.com
Created by London born, Milan based
Eric Christopher Hall.

With over a decade of experience working for some of the worlds biggest fashion houses, Eric has achieved a lifelong ambition of going it alone and channeling all of his creativity and vision into the development of the Galleria-T brand.

The whole concept of Galleria-T is about creating and exhibiting beautiful pieces of unique wearable art, ‘where the clothing is the canvas.’

All of the Galleria-T artwork has been meticulously selected and commissioned in collaboration with a handpicked selection of International Illustrators, Graphic Designers, Photographers, Fashion Stylists, Musicians, and others working within the Fashion and Creative Media industries.

Each Galleria-T garment has been ethically produced and printed in the USA, and is certified ‘Sweatshop Free’

Each item features a print which is incredibly light, the colours are luminously vibrant, and the texture of the ink soft to touch.

The production of our apparel incorporates a special hybrid style of printing in which a discharge underbase is used with an especially soft ink which is then applied over the top.

This creates a strong print with bright colours while keeping the printing really soft (even on the darker coloured garments).

Galleria-T will be releasing small capsule collections on a regular basis, not following the usual trend of releasing pieces according to the season, therefore there will always be an almost constant flow of new products available in our online store, and also eventually in selected independent boutiques Worldwide.

LUSH!

2011-01-04T11:13:00.004-05:00

Sadly, there is not a Lush store for many, many (hundreds) of miles where I am. But thankfully, there is a LUSH giveaway happening at the French Linen blog! It ends tomorrow, so hurry on over and check it out! While you're at it, check out LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics. They have some great stuff!

MT Coffinz - tutus, dreads, and more!

2010-11-29T11:19:00.002-05:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted on my blog, I've been pretty busy these last few months! But I just made a post-worthy discovery! I found MTCoffinz , an awesome Etsy shop that specializes in all things alternative! Hair falls, tutus, belt skirts, even winter accessories!

Check out these great rainbow striped armwarmers:

Or these Bubblegum Pink and Black hairfalls...

...and don't forget the tutus!

Definitely some great gifts in this shop, the holidays are right around the corner! I know I would love to see some of these things under my tree on Xmas! Head on over to MTCoffinz to see all of the great stuff they've got!

Very cool giveaway

2010-07-22T14:40:00.005-04:00

Very cool giveaway over at Custom Zombie's Undead Ramblings blog from Agonysdecay. You can win your choice of ring!

I had to add this shop to my favorites. Seriously. I will be buying something as soon as I get some extra $$$. This shop has something for every Goth/zombie/horror/macabre/Victorian enthusiast. Jewelry, soap, hair accessories, and more - all in one adorable little Etsy shop!

Check out the giveaway before it ends July 25th!

Handmade soap from Soap Deli.

2010-06-23T13:54:00.005-04:00

This past week I won a giveaway on the Soap Deli blog for a gift certificate to the Soap Deli. Etsy shop. As anyone who shops or sells on Etsy knows, there are a TON of handmade soap shops on Etsy. . . I just happened to be lucky enough to win some products from this one! Not only was Rebecca, owner of Soap Deli. very prompt to answer any questions I had about products and how to redeem my gift certificate, but she shipped the package promptly, too! Oh, and she there in a few extra samples for me, as well. Now that's great customer service!

I have nothing but good things to say about Rebecca and her shop. I would totally recommend her soap to anyone, she sells goats milk, sea salt, and VEGAN SOAPS! I am a total animal lover, so when the fact that she sells vegan products totally appeals to me. And vegan or not, they smell great! Oh, and her soaps also happen to be great for dry skin and eczema. Since it's summer I don't really have any dry skin trouble, but I do have eczema - though it shows up rarely, and I think more often in the winter, it's nice to know that her soap not only smells great, but also has benefits for my skin! But that's enough boasting about how great her shop is, and on to what I ordered from her. . .

I ordered:

Falling for You - cocoa butter and shea, cold process VEGAN soap - A light scent. The word "delicate" comes to mind. According to her page: "an alluring blend of Lemon Peel, Vanilla, Musk, and Mandarin." Sounds about right! Not overpowering, which is always a concern for me when ordering scented products online. She also says it is great as a facial bar, or an all-over soap, which I could totally see why this would make a great facial soap bar. I have used facial scrubs for years, and have only used body washes, not bar soaps for too long to remember now- but, this is definitely something that could change that. Also, according to feedback from one customer, it is also great as a shampoo bar. Plus, my boyfriend who tends to like Old Spice and Axe, typically mens bath product scents, loved this one, just to give you an idea that it's not an overtly feminine smell by any means; could definitely be a unisex product.

2. Raspberry and Vanilla - cocoa butter and shea, cold process VEGAN soap - The description list it as "a soft yet fruity blend of raspberry, plum, and vanilla". I love vanilla, I love raspberries figured I couldn't go wrong, and I didn't. Not too sweet, not too strong. Accroding to one buyers feedback for this soap: "So far your soaps have been the best for my very dry skin out of the natural ones that I've tried! Thanks again!"

3. Lemon and Poppyseed cold process soap, ALL NATURAL. VEGAN - Like lemon poppy seed muffins? Of course you do! Who doesn't. This soap is scented like a fresh, tasty batch of those muffins. Only in this case, you get to have a nice, clean lemon scent and the poppy seeds exfoliate your skin!

4. Red Velvet Cake, shea butter and goat's milk cold process soap - "My handmade Red Velvet Cake Goat Milk and Shea Butter Soap is a delicious combination of dark chocolate, strawberry syrup, and red currant, cocoa powder, sugar cane and vanilla." The name and description sold me on this one. I am totally a fan of red velvet cake...Well, I am a fan of cake..Okay, a fan of confections in general. I LIKE SWEETS. lol But here was my concern with this one before I order it - I must admit, I was worried when I saw dark chocolate and cocoa powder as notes. Simply because every time, except for maybe one or two ever, that I have seen ANYTHING supposed chocolate scented it would only smell NOTHING like chocolate, but it would usually make me feel sick. I can't quite describe the smell those prodcuts would have, but they were always bad, so now I tend to veer away from them. And I know that's a problem quite a few of my friends and other people I've run into have had, so they don't go for chocolate scents either- not because they don't like chocolate, but because they don't like the weird faux-chocolate, off-putting, kind-of-like-dirt-but-more-metallic smell. lol
BUT FEAR NOT! THIS IS NOT THE CASE IN THIS TASTY, RED VELVET SOAP! Though, I didn't immediately think of chocolate when I smelled this soap. It definitely smells sweet and cake-like, but like her other products not at all overpowering. As in, you wouldn't get a tooth ache from smelling this.

So that's what I ordered....but that is not all! Yes, the lovely Rebecca also included 3 samples!

She included a...
- Lemon Lavender cold process she butter soap - My boyfriend wants this one. Badly. lol As he put it, "It smells like health food store. I want it." Lavender can be a really heavy off putting scent in some instances, or a really relaxing, light scent. In this case, it's the latter. Not too strong, just right. Worth buying, if you like lavender, lemon, or calming scents.

- Natural Patchouli shea butter cold process soap, ALL NATURAL - I love patchouli, but in most cases it is a STRONG smell. Typically if you walk into a room wearing patchouli, everyone will know it. From across the room. In this case, the soap stays true to the smell of patchouli (as it is made with 100% natural patchouli essential oil), but it is not overpowering. Patchouli lovers and hippies rejoice!

- Red Velvet Cake goat milk lotion - I had told her after ordering my soaps that I wished I could have ordered a bottle of her red velvet cake, but that I only saw it in $20 full-size bottles. And I wished she had samples of it available, because I didn't want to buy that then not be able to try as many soaps and scents. She was kind enough to include a VERY generous 2 oz. sample of this lotion in with my order - which I am very thankful for. It will last me a while for sure. It smells just like a sweet, cake confection. But I love it most because I can't smell it from 10 ft. away, it's a perfectly light sweetness. Just as any fragrance should be. Not greasy, perfect. Everything you would want in a lotion. I put a bit on my hands this afternoon, they still feel moisturized and smell just like red velvet cake.

My Soap Deli swag:

Just in case this post didn't give you an idea of how great her products and service are, check out her Etsy feedback- she has 2632 sales! Of that she has received ZERO negative feedback, ONE neutral feedback, and 2460 positive feedback. I rest my case.

HERE ARE ALL OF HER LINKS:

SOAP DELI SHOP

Soap Deli Blog

Soap Deli Twitter

Soap Deli Facebook

Pinup shoes!

2010-06-22T16:00:00.003-04:00

Okay, so this post may not pertain to handmade wares- BUT my reader know, I am a huge fan of retro/Burlesque/pinup style. So, imagine my delight when I found this giveaway on Review Retreat!

They are hosting a giveaway offering the chance for one lucky reader to win any 1 pair of shoes from pinupshoes.com of their choosing! HOW COOL IS THAT?!

They offer a wide variety of heels (sooo many heels!), flats, platforms, and boots. They have shoes for women, men, and children- and some unisex shoes, too. The giveaway closes July 12th, so check it out while there is still time!

Mr.Sogs (via Familylicious)

2010-06-18T08:17:00.004-04:00

I was skimming through the blog-o-sphere this morning and found this great review (AND giveaway) on the Familylicious blog. - click here to check it out -

Upon reading the review and seeing all of the adorable pictures that were posted, I immediately fell in love with Mr.Sogs creatures.

I checked out his Etsy shop and loved every bit of what I found. Strange little plush creatures. According to his shop announcement:
"All the creatures from Mr. Sogs are handmade and every creature is two of a kind with an identical twin so that none of them will ever be lonely. Every pair is unique and can be adopted as a pair or individually."
How cute!

Definitely check out the review on Familylicious, and have a look at his Etsy shop- filled with bunnies, and Penguins, and Creatures; Sea Suckers, OddVarks, and Orbs! You're guaranteed to find a strange, new friend to love.

The Winner of the Uprinting 500 Business Card Giveaway Is...

2010-03-28T00:26:00.003-04:00

The winner of the Uprinting 500 business card GIVEAWAY is...

April!

Uprinting Business Card GIVEAWAY!

2010-03-19T20:26:00.011-04:00

-THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED-

I know that many small business owners and Etsy sellers, like myself, are always in need of business cards. You ship them out with orders, you give them to friends...and let's face it, ordering them can get costly. ...But hat's something one of my lucky readers won't have to worry about for awhile because Uprinting has offered to give 500 business cards to one of my readers. And even better...not only will the winner win 500 business cards, but they will receive free shipping! I have used Uprinting before and I was very pleased with the quality of their products. They offer gloss, matte, and even recycled cards.

The Prize:

500 Business Cards for One (1) Winner
Sizes: 2 x 3.5”, 2 x 3”, 2 x 2” (square card) or 1.75 x 3.5” (slim card)
Paper: 14 pt gloss cardstock, 14 pt matte cardstock or 13 pt recycled uncoated cardstock
Specifications: Full Color Both Sides; Offset Press; 3 Business Day Printing
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping
Print online

This giveaway is open to US Residents only.

To check out their business cards, templates, or to design your own go to: http://www.uprinting.com/Business-Cards.html

To Enter:
Comment on this blog telling me what you would use these business cards for. Don't forget to leave your e-mail address so I can contact you if you win!

Extra Entries:
Follow Ella Etc. on Twitter (1 entry)

Become a fan of Ella Etc. on Facebook - (1 entry)

Follow this blog - (1 entry)

Comment on another one of my blog posts, and come back to this post with a link to what you commented on - (1 entry)

Purchase an item from my Etsy shop, leave 'uprinting giveaway' in message to seller box at checkout - (2 entries)

GIVEAWAY ENDS Sunday, MARCH 28th, 2010.

The winner will be chosen via random.org. Good luck, everyone!

The finished displays! (And some new items...)

2010-03-16T13:48:00.011-04:00

The necklace display and bracelet display are finished! Now, I am just about set in terms of displays. I just need one more ring display and then I'll be good to go!

The bracelet display that my boyfriend built for me (and I painted it...and choose the pretty green paint):

Bracelets on the display:

The necklace display:
And since I finished some of my brand new resin bangles, I thought I'd include a few pics of them, too. I am very proud of how they turned out!

The first two bangles I made:

So I am loving these! And I am very excited to see what customers and other craftspeople think of them at the fairs, festivals, and farmers markets I'm going to be doing. I have been hunting for more vending locations. So far it's the farmer's market, starting May 29th. August 14th is August West Fest. There's still potential of doing a fundraiser at the high school sometime in April/May. I was contacted regarding a festival in Montgomery, VT in early Sept. which I am highly considering. Last night I found an indie crafts fair in VT! I applied to be a vendor and I am REALLY hoping to get in. That will be May 8th, if I get a table. I didn't know there was an indie/alternative crafts fair in this state! It's called the Queen City Crafts Bazaar. I will know in about 10 days whether I'm in or not, but fingers crossed until then! Really want to be a part of this one!

Keeping busy!

2010-03-14T14:27:00.013-04:00

Sometimes, it's just easier to update fans and followers via my Facebook page or Twitter page with a quick sentence or a picture, than to write an entire blog. To be honest, I tend not to have much to say, and I haven't been keeping up on my blog as much as I would like to.But mostly lately, it's because I have been so busy!

I've been getting ready for upcoming events, at which I am going to be selling. That means trying to build up a lot of inventory and items to sell, working on brand new items that I've never made before, getting all of my displays ready, ordering supplies...It may not sound like much, but it is keeping me fairly busy. But, I am very excited for everything that is coming up. Starting this May, I'm going to be selling at a local Farmer's Market. In August, I'm going to be selling at the August West Festival in Jay Peak, VT. Also, I visited my former high school this past week and spent a day there talking with each art class proposing a sign designing contest to them. I need a sign for my vending table to get the attention of potential buyers and let them know what I am selling. I put up an offer to the students, to design a sign for me to display at my table at all of these upcoming events, and whoever creates the sign I choose as my favorite I will make them a pendant/necklace from my shop for free (or a ring, or hairclips if they would prefer). My former art teacher got a kick out of the idea, loved that I wanted to involve and likes that I am still involved in art. Several other former teachers of mine were very impressed with my work, and the fact that I was attempting to run a small business on my own and pave such a path for myself. I brought some of my latest items with me to show the students, and I even made a few sales (to students and teachers). I will probably be posting pictures of the winning sign when the contest ends, so keep an eye out for that upcoming post.

The reason I decided to blog today was because I have been working on getting some of my jewelry displays finished today, with the help of my boyfriend. We picked up some wood and a jar of bright green paint. The two displays that we're working on today are - a necklace display (using some wood that he fashioned into a frame, and some screen), and double-tiered bracelet holder. I wanted two rows of bracelets because I think I'm going to be putting beaded bracelets on one row, and the resin bracelets that I will soon be making on the other.

They're not finished just yet, but I will try to post pictures when they are. In the meantime, here are some pictures of a few of the things I've been working on:

The beginnings of the bracelet and necklace displays.

A few of the brand new necklace designs. None of these are posted in my Etsy shop right now, but they are available upon request, if you see something you like!

One of my ring displays. ALL new rings, none of these are listed in my Etsy shop. I still need to make another display for my bigger rings that are going to be around maybe $8 (which is still VERY reasonable for a handmade resin ring, they're typically at least $10.)

The same ring display as previously pictured. Guess what this pretty, green box originally was? .....A box of chocolates! Gotta love re-purposing and recycling! I stuck some of my new hairclips (again, available upon request but not currently available in my shop) and some sets of earrings to the back of the box, as you can see. Which, conveniently frees up a lot of table space. ...I love being so crafty!

Now, all I need to do (in terms of display gathering, anyway) is get another ring display for my bigger rings that will cost a few dollars more, and I need to put some finishing touches on a ring display that I have for my children's rings! I know, I know, LOTS of ring displays. But I can't wait till I put all these displays to use really soon!

Life is a cabaret!

2010-02-17T16:58:00.009-05:00

Personally, I love cabaret/burlesque style. There's just something about corsets, lace, feathers... And as I have been looking for a few new pretties for myself, I browsed Etsy for the most fabulous Burlesque-inspired items I could find. I came across quite a few beauties (some of which I would just love to call my own, so I simply had to add a few of them to my favorites). I made a list, which was difficult, I found SO many great things!

And The Winner Is...

2010-02-12T20:12:00.003-05:00

The winner of the Spectrum Cosmetics giveaway is.....

Jessica!

Jessica, I will contact Erica and get your info to her right away so she can contact you and get those samples out to you!

Spectrum Cosmetics - Review & GIVEAWAY

2010-01-25T17:35:00.019-05:00

Erica, of Spectrum Cosmetics, was nice enough not only to let me do the interview - but a review of her products! ...AND A GIVEAWAY!

I don't wear eye shadow as much as I used to, and when I do I typically gravitate towards vibrant colors. Usually, with bright eye color (or really any eye color) you get it and it's really bright and pretty in the package, but then when you put it on it's really light, you have to wet it and put it on thicker than you should have to. Then, it just ends up cakey, and lasts an hour...Ugh. No fun at all. If you're looking for pretty shadows and pigments on a budget, you can find yourself hard-pressed to find a good product.

Erica let me choose 5 colors that I would like to try (was difficult choosing, with so many pretty colors), and was very sweet through all of our convos. The 5 colors I chose were: Peacock, Poe, Lenore, Green Man, and Under The Sea.

-THE REVIEW-

Peacock

I REALLY liked this one, it just might be my favorite. The name is very fitting for the color, a very pretty, shimmery blue-green. It's not dark, it's really vibrant and beautiful. I applied it dry, and with only one coat, and got great results! I highly recommend this product. Definitely worth buying...and at $4 you can't go wrong! It would cost the same price (or more) in a drugstore for a lower quality product.

Lenore

I absolutely loved this shade of purple. It went on exactly the same color as shown in the pot above. It's a slightly shimmery purple pigment, a really nice shade of purple. After Peacock and Under The Sea, this is one is my third favorite. I thought it looked nice. If you're looking for some pretty purple pigment - look no further.

Poe

Personally, this wasn't a favorite of mine. I preferred Lenore in terms of a purple color. But, that all depends on what colors you like and what looks good on you. This is a matte purple, a very true shade.

Green Man

This one was my least favorite of the five products I tried. Again, it all depends on what you like and what colors you feel comfortable wearing. This is a matte spearmint green shade. I just didn't feel it looked that great on me, but it could definitely work on some people.

Under The Sea

Loved it. Loved this color. I couldn't decide if this one was my favorite or Peacock, but I would definitely recommend this shade to anyone. It may look similar to Green Man in these pictures, but this one is so much prettier in my opinion. It's shimmery, and not in a weird silvery way that shimmery makeup can sometimes have. I was really impressed with this color. I think it would work on just about anyone. (Side note: Of all the five shades, my boyfriend thought this one was the prettiest by far. Said it was his favorite, no question.)

THE GIVEAWAY!
Erika has offered to giveaway 3 sample pigments of the winners choice!
She has 59 fabulous colors to choose from, so you have a nice selection to choose from. (And might I add, the sample bags are fairly generous you could get at least 2-3 uses out of them.)

TO ENTER:
Leave a comment with your favorite Spectrum Cosmetics color. Leave your email address so that you can be contacted if you win!

EXTRA ENTRIES (LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY):

- Follow this blog

- Purchase an item from Spectrum Cosmetics. Then come back here and leave a comment with your Etsy username, and that you made a purchase.

- Subscribe to the Spectrum Cosmetics YouTube channel

- Heart the Spectrum Cosmetics shop.

This contest ends February 12, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST.

The winner will be chosen at random and will be announced the following day. This giveaway is only open to U.S. residents. This prize is not redeemable for cash or a shop credit. None of these pictures were touched up. All of the opinions I have given are my own, and I was not paid to give them.

Spectrum Cosmetics - The Interview

2010-01-25T17:10:00.009-05:00

I'd like to introduce you to Spectrum Cosmetics. Erica, owner of Spectrum Cosmetics, specializes in making pure mineral makeup. You can view her shop HERE.

Name? Age? Location?
Erica, 25, Pennsylvania.

What is the purpose, principle business aims, target market, policies and values of Spectrum Cosmetics?
My purpose is to provide natural cosmetics at a more affordable price. My target market is any one that loves makeup, and doesn't want to have chemicals slathered all over their face! My main policy is to be as helpful and fair as I can be. I want to keep my prices low, so everyone can enjoy them.

How long have you been selling cosmetics?
Though I have been making my own cosmetics for years, I just recently discovered Etsy in August of '09 and began selling my own cosmetics around October of that year when I realized that there was a lack of it available.

What inspired you to make your own cosmetics?
I was tired of not knowing what it was that was in my cosmetics, and I'm entirely AGAINST animal testing. Favorite colors were always being discontinued, and the prices of things just kept raising, so I began doing research, and testing colors out on anyone that would let me near them with a brush. :)

Are your products Vegan-friendly?
99 percent of my products are vegan friendly - However, there are 1 or 2 that do contain carmine. All ingredients are listed for each individual color though, so there are no surprises.

Have your products been tested? On?
All ingredients that I use have been FDA approved. And, I test thoroughly on myself and anyone around me.

What do you use to make your products?
All pigments are natural substances such as mica, titanium dioxide, tin oxide, iron oxide and similar substances.

What do you do when your not selling or making your products?
When I'm not selling or making more product I'm busy with my boys. I'm a mom of a very active 6 year old, and a curious little 5 month old baby.

What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
None, I've done factory work, I've made windows, and Zippo components, fuel cells, medical supplies, plastic injection moldings, I worked retail FAR too long. I was a cook at a golf course, I bar tended, and even worked at a pizza shop, and I have to say that working at home and being with my kids is the most gratifying.

Finally, what is your most cherished handmade possession?
Anything that my son makes.

And The Winners Are....

2010-01-24T14:15:00.005-05:00

It is time to announce the winners of both the Ella Etc. Resin Sprinkle Earring giveaway, and the CinCin's Crafts Handmade Earring giveaway!

The winner of the Ella Etc. Resin Sprinkle Earrings is...

Twistwear!

And the winner of the CinCin's Crafts Glass Earrings giveaway is...

Emily!

Emily, CinCin will soon be contacting you via email.

Congrats to the winners, and thank you to everyone who entered!

Valentine's Day is on it's way...

2010-01-22T11:39:00.007-05:00

It's almost Valentine's Day. Some think it is the most romantic day of the year, while others think it is a totally overrated day to celebrate commercialism.
For those of you who are celebrating this year, I've made a list of some of my favorite handmade Valentine cards! And well, those of you who aren't celebrating will at least get a chuckle out of some of them. I've found the sweet and the sleazy, and everything in between! Hope you find something you like!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2010-01-18T19:52:00.012-05:00

I'm fairly new to this whole blogging thing and I'm trying to keep up with it fairly regularly. So, I decided what better idea for a post than my favorite handmade items that I got this past year!

Indian Blue Feather Headband, from Stix And Jones-

I wasn't sure how well I would pull this headband off, but I thought it looked gorgeous, reminded me of something a flapper might wear in the 1920's. Although it's a very bold accessory, it's classy- not flashy. It is a very beautiful hair piece, and I have gotten many compliments on it.

Divine Cha-Cha Heels Magnet, from Picard Creative-

The day I found Picard Creative on Etsy, I fell in love immediately. Seriously! Her shop is honestly one of my absolute favorites, I just adore everything she makes. I love the mixed-media style of her work - the glamorous pinups, old Hollywood stars, and humorous photos, paired with witty phrases. And, her magnet are made of recycled tin can lids! How cool is that?! Magnets isn't the only thing she makes. She also has bookmarks, checkbook covers, and lots of other items in her shop. Oh, and she does custom items!

End Mass Production Womens T-Shirt, from DeadWorry-

My boyfriend got this one for me for Christmas. I found it on Etsy one day and ended up wanting to get it for months. I have always loved creating things and been very much a Do-It-Yourself kinda gal, and then I started selling on Etsy in November. So finding (and owning) this shirt just made perfect sense!

"She Couldn't Be Good" Glass Pendant Necklace, from Laughing Vixen Lounge-

I love pinups, so I thought this pendant was fabulous the second I saw it. Laughing Vixen sells glass pendants, charm bracelets, bubble bracelets, and charmed pendants. She has quite a bit of retro style pinup and pulp stuff. But that's not all she sells - check her out!

Coco Lavender 4 oz. Massage Candle, from YumYumCandles-

I am usually weary of scented items over the internet because you can never know exactly how the product smells. Also, I had never tried massage candles before. In theory, it sounded great- I like lavender, candles, and massages...And when I got it and tried it out, it was totally great! Their Coco Lavender scent is so good. It isn't super potent, it's a really comforting smell. They describe it on their site as "A mix of lavender & vanilla with hints of coconut & musk." Let me just say that the term "musk" usually scares me off, because any time I have ever smelled anything with a musk tone it usually has a VERY strong smell. The notes in this scent are very subtle, and it all comes together wonderfully to form a very nice, cozy scent. Also, if you like the smell of drier sheets or warm laundry, I suggest you try their Clean Massage Candle.

Handmade Earring GIVEAWAY!

2010-01-13T11:44:00.007-05:00

I got my sister so interested in Etsy that she just recently opened a shop of her own! And my giveaway gave her an idea...She is giving away THIS pair of earrings:

TO ENTER:
Visit Cin Cin's Crafts and leave a comment on this post telling with your favorite item in the shop. Don't forget to leave me your e-mail address so I can contact you if you win!

EXTRA ENTRIES (LEAVE A SEPERATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY):

- Become a follower on twitter - (1 Entry)

- Add Cin Cin's Crafts to your favorites on Etsy - (1 Additional Entry)

- Purchase an item from Cin Cin's Crafts - (4 Additional Entries per item. *Entries valid upon payment* Leave a comment on this post with your Etsy username, or put 'giveaway' in the message to seller box at checkout.)

This contest ends January 24, 2009 at 6:00 PM EST. The winner will be chosen by traditional drawing (number of entries) and will be announced the following day. In the event of a tie, a winner will be chosen at random from the tied entries. This giveaway is only open to U.S. residents. This prize is not redeemable for cash or a shop credit.

Steampunk, anyone?

2009-12-23T21:53:00.006-05:00

If you're a fan of Steampunk art and jewelry, or you just like unique, beautiful jewelry then check out Catherinette Rings. This shop has been a favorite of mine on Etsy for a while now, and if you haven't checked them out yet, I suggest you do.

They sell gorgeous, handmade jewelry- rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, tie tacks..oh, and they have gift certificates! Not only are their items great, but so is their shipping cost- they offer free shipping EVERYWHERE! I highly suggest this shop.

Speaking of giveaways!

2009-12-23T19:56:00.002-05:00

Have you checked out Laughing Vixen on Etsy? Well, I love her shop and she's having a giveaway here! Her shop has been a favorite of mine for a while now, I love her pendants. If you haven't checked her out yet, her shop is worth a look!

Who Doesn't Love A Good GIVEAWAY?

2009-12-21T22:03:00.005-05:00

2009 is almost over...and why not ring in the new year with a brand new pair of earrings! I'm giving away THIS pair of resin sprinkle stud earrings- handmade by me!

These earrings are approx. 1/2" wide, are made of resin and filled with sprinkles. Although they may look good enough to eat, they are not edible. They are, however, the perfect way to brighten up your day!

TO ENTER:
Visit my shop and leave a comment on this post telling me what your favorite item in the shop is. Don't forget to leave me your e-mail address so I can contact you if you win! (And if you want, you can leave me a link to your Etsy shop, so I can check out the great things that you make!)

EXTRA ENTRIES (leave separate comments for each entry):

- Follow my blog - (1 Additional Entry - Don't forget to leave a comment telling me that you're following.)

- Become my fan on Facebook - (1 Additional Entry - Leave a comment telling me, and if you're already a fan, you still need to leave a comment on this post!)

- Add my button to your blog. (2 Additional Entries - Leave a comment, with your blog URL.)

- Purchase an item from my shop - (8 Additional Entries per item. *Entries valid upon payment* Leave a comment on this post with your Etsy username, or put 'giveaway' in the message to seller box at checkout.)

This contest ends January 24, 2009 at 11:59 PM EST. The winner will be chosen by traditional drawing (number of entries) and will be announced the following day. In the event of a tie, a winner will be chosen at random from the tied entries. This giveaway is only open to U.S. residents. This prize is not redeemable for cash or a shop credit.

What I've Been Up To...

2009-12-13T13:17:00.001-05:00

Just to update everyone, I've been working on all kinds of new resin items to post in my shop. I've already put a few pendants up in the last few days, and I've been making more everyday.
In the meantime, I figured I'd show you a few handmade gifts I made for my friends and family this Christmas, just for fun. Enjoy.

Here's a resin necklace I made for my sister. She really likes blue things, and I thought I'd make her something fairly basic. I worked on getting all the colors just right, and I think it turned out really nice...

And since my sister loves rainbows and colorful things, she loves all of the sprinkle items in my shop. She insisted I make her one of these pendants, so here it is...

This a bracelet I made with glass beads, for my mother. She's one of those people who is fairly difficult to shop for. I know she likes pastels, and I've made her a few bracelets in the past that she wears, so I figured why not make her another bracelet...

And finally, this is a charm bracelet I made for my boyfriend's mother. I knew I wanted to make her something but I wasn't sure what. Then he told me she really likes The Wizard of Oz, so I thought of this! I'm not going to give it to her till Dec. 25th, so I hope she likes it. He says she'll love it...

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!

2009-12-10T15:17:00.000-05:00

Ahh! It's a really busy day for me, and the internet has been down which hasn't helped any!
But, I'm in pretty good mood, nonetheless. My resin arrived today! So, I'm working on all kinds of great, new items that'll be in the shop soon (so keep an eye out)! Plus, I sold another item today! Woohoo!
...And if that's not enough to be happy about, I won a contest on this blog: http://silvermoonwitch.blogspot.com/2009/12/blog-giveaway-holiday-ornament-from.html. I'm am simply ecstatic about this, because Picard Creative truly is one of my favorite Etsy shops. I'm not just saying that because I won, either! If you haven't yet, you should definitely check out her shop. She sells these great magnets (and ornaments!) made from upcycled tin can lids, with great pictures in them. She also sells checkbook covers, debit card cases, bookmarks, and all kinds of cute stuff.

So, definitely check out Picard Creative, and don't forget to check out my shop as I'll be posting new items in the days and weeks to come.

What's going on at Ella Arts....

2009-12-07T17:03:00.000-05:00

Here's a little update for my followers and fans about what's to come at www.ellaarts.etsy.com.

The shop name will soon be changing! 'Ella Arts' is now going to be 'Ella Etc.'
Have no fear! I will be selling the same great items I already have in the shop (...And, a few new additions as well.)

Also, I'm waiting on an order of resin to come in, and I'd love to hear ANY suggestions my followers have for pendants to make. I have a few new ideas up my sleeve, but I'd love to know what you would like to see (words, pictures, colors, sprinkles, etc...Tell me what you have in mind, or what YOU would wear.) Just comment on this post with your ideas! I'd like to know what you're interested in.

The ULTIMATE Holiday Gift Guide

2009-12-03T18:40:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again. The holidays are upon us. Which means, it's time to fulfill your social expectations and give gifts to those around you.
I've decided to make it a bit easier on you and compose the ULTIMATE holiday gift guide. That's right, last minute shoppers- look no further, I've taken care of everything. I've scoured the earth (well, I've scoured Etsy...) to find you the best of the best. I'm talking handmade gifts! Enjoy.

GREETING CARDS:

$5 And Under:

FOR THE BOOK LOVER:

FOR THE MUSIC LOVER:

FOR THE GEEK:

FOR HER:

FOR HIM:

FOR KIDS:

HANUKKAH:

First blog...here we go!

2009-12-01T00:51:00.000-05:00

My name is Gabriella, I am a 19 years old, and I like to make things. All kind of things.
I draw, make collages, recycled/upcycled things, jewelry (I recently started working with resin and I fell in love with it immediately. But I also do bead work, hemp work, and lots of other things), etc. I'm into anything I use as a creative outlet.
(My next goal is to learn how to sew and knit/crochet.)

I'm making this blog in an effort not only to promote the things I make, but also D.I.Y/handmade crafts, clothes, jewelry, etc. in general.
In posts to come, I'm going to show you how to make all kind of really great, cute, cheap things.

I recently started selling items on Etsy. I've only had a few sales, but it's great to see people's interest and appreciation for the things in make.

Check out my Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ellaarts

I also have a Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Ella-Arts/186540875840?ref=ts