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Locally handmade goodness to give or to get.
We’re a little obsessed. Last July, we rounded up eight fantastic local finds from Etsy.com, that ad-dictive online marketplace of all things handmade. Since then, we can’t stop scouting for gorgeous goods by Rhody artisans. Here are seven of our latest favorites, just in time for Mother’s Day and all those summer weddings — because there’s nothing like an artfully blown glass tumbler or handcrafted bar of soap to make you realize that it’s more than the thought that counts. —N.M.
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Interviews
Jen Yates, Ocean Mist Studio
Inspiration:
I am inspired by nature. I live by the ocean and love spending time outdoors.
Most popular item:
Locally, I sell a lot of sea glass jewelry, handmade soap, and photographic note cards. Online, my biggest seller has been my Mother Bird Necklace.
Best thing about Etsy:
I love working at home. It gives me time to enjoy my family and I'm able to reach many people through Etsy.
Favorite local Etsy shops:
There are so many talented artists and crafters here in Rhode Island. One of my favorites is Ashley Van Etten's Willywaw (www.etsy.com/shop/willywaw). Her nature inspired screen prints are beautiful.
Tracy Prince, Sea Find Designs
Inspiration:
Nostalgia. There's a little bit of my youth in every piece I create!
Most popular item:
My most popular item is my Eco Love Cut Heart Sea Glass Necklace. It really shows your love for the environment!
Best thing about Etsy:
I get to work from home; my children benefit immensely from this. I get to work with my children, and they love to help clean our Rhode Island beaches and make art with the stuff they find!! It's easy and I am truly fulfilled.
Favorite local Etsy shops:
My two favorite local Etsy shops are www.venbead.etsy.com and www.alamodestuff.etsy.com
Katie Leroy, Katie Leroy Custom Creations
Inspiration:
I have four beautiful children and try to involve them in what I do. Listen to their ideas and their laughter; hopefully inspire them to be creative.
Most popular item:
I don’t have one most popular item; it seems to change all the time. Right now my sock monkey magnets have been a big seller.
Best thing about Etsy:
The best thing about having a shop on Etsy is being a part of such a creative community. It is truly inspiring.
Favorite local Etsy shops:
Sea Glass Boutique, Willywaw (www.etsy.com/shop/willywaw) and Package in Style (www.etsy.com/shop/packageinstyle).
Hilal Minda, New Moon Studio
Inspiration:
I always loved making things with my hands. The best way to express my feelings and thoughts is when I draft or make things with clay. I love soft organic shapes and the use of contrasting colors. I like clean and simple designs.
Most popular item:
My most popular item is the porcelain Pomegranate vase.
Best thing about Etsy:
Since I became a mom in 2008, I had a great opportunity to continue my passion for creating things of beauty while raising my baby. It is such a great honor to be part of Etsy and share my work with other talented artists all around the world.
Favorite local Etsy items:
Eco-friendly snack bags and Macbook sleeves at www.housejewels.etsy.com and packaging supplies at www.packageinstyle.etsy.com. Also, hand-bound books and original prints at www.NatalieAsIs.etsy.com
Ceylan Erzan, Paper In Style
Inspiration:
You will see influences from my European heritage in both of my shops: simple designs but bold colors. I also love working with textured objects and vintage materials that remind me all the history of the Mediterranean region. I am also inspired by magazines, people, nature and my travels.
How she got started on Etsy:
I decided to open up a shop after spending weeks trying to find favors, favor tags and invitations for my sister’s baby shower. Around the same time, I attended Bryant University's The 2009 Women Summit , and the keynote speakers, Mireille Guiliano and Jean Chatzky, motivated and inspired me greatly. I attended the summit on March 12, 2009 and opened my shop on March 22, 2009! Since then, I opened my other shop package in style (www.packageinstyle.etsy.com) which has been featured on many national blogs.
Most popular item:
My dandelion stationery and elephant garland for birthdays and baby showers.
Best thing about Etsy:
I am a chemical engineer by training and I work full time. I started my Etsy shop as a hobby for relaxation and pleasure, and soon after found out that Etsy is a whole different culture. It is a very diverse community of artisans who help each other by sharing knowledge and skills, who promote each other, who celebrate success together: It is a great inclusive environment. I am doing business with Australia, UK, Singapore, Slovenia, etc. It is a lot of fun!
Favorite local Etsy shops:
My favorite local caterer is on Etsy: tulayskitchen.etsy.com; my favorite local pottery studio is newmoonstudio.etsy.com; my favorite local jewelry store is floweredsky.etsy.com; my favorite accessories shop is itsallinthebag01.etsy.com; and my favorite paintings are juliebcreative.etsy.com
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Reader Comments:
Amazing finds! A lot of talent. I loved the stationery so adorable :) - Didem
Great finds! I love "Paperinstyle"'s pretty and colorful creations! Thanks for sharing!