{Artist Spotlight} Sasha's Hand Poured & The Immaculate Beard

Sasha’s booth is full of self care and dynamite holiday gifts, so we know you’ll be pumped to find Sasha's Hand Poured and The Immaculate Beard joining us again for the 2019 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash. We connected for a quick Q&A just for y’all …

What are you most looking forward to for the Jingle Bash?
Personally I always love shopping our fellow vendors and making new friends at the Bash!!! The shoppers are so enthusiastic for the handmade movement, it always encourages me to keep on doing what I do!!

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?
I introduced Bubble Bath Bombs to the line this fall and am excited to share them at the Bash!

What is your favorite part of prepping for an upcoming show?
Definitely the new product offerings! So fun to experiment and bring the winners to the show!

What makes this event special for you?
The friendships we have made over the years at this event are priceless!! Shoppers and vendors both.

Is there a story behind your business name?
True to the name, every item we make is mixed, poured, packaged, and labeled by hand!!

What is a typical day of work like for you?
Coffee, wake up kids, breakfast, start schoolwork (I homeschool 3 boys!), out to workspace to start checking off the list. I try to always have a plan for the next day waiting when I get out to the workspace.

What is your professional background and how did it lead you to the creative work you are pursuing now?
I have an educational background in chemistry and mathematics which led to working in education and educational software. So basically unrelated except chemistry makes me want to make things so I can feel like a chemist! HA!

How would you describe your shop?
I have Sasha’s HandPoured, which is a handmade line of fun, great smelling bath, body, & home fragrance goods. Then there is the men’s line, The Immaculate Beard, which is intended to help the bearded, AND clean shaven look, smell and feel their very best. My motto is LOOK GOOD, SMELL GOOD, FEEL GOOD!

What do you enjoy most about working with your team?
Learning and sharing experiences. The pros are so willing to help and the new ones are eager to learn!

What do you find the most challenging about your work?
Time management.

Do you have any tips for finding work/life balance?
I wish I did. HA! I do try to have certain times and days totally off limits for working in the workspace. But every fall I break all my own rules. It is a work in progress for me!

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 9. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Fun Cool Wall Clocks

Denah is another first timer at the Bash, and we’re sure you’ll want to snag a few minutes at the Fun Cool Wall Clocks booth during the 2019 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash. We gave Denah a penny for her thoughts in a quick Q&A just for y’all …

What are you most looking forward to for the Jingle Bash?
I am new to Dallas and this is my first show since moving here. I’ve participated in many shows, but never one as large as the Jingle Bash! I’m so excited for this experience and to get to meet many new customers.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?
I will have a 42” diameter mandala clock with me, which is one of my signature designs. It is usually a custom order piece, but I will have one available for purchase that day AND it just may (wink, wink) have a special show price. I will also have quite a few one-of-a-kind coin clocks for sale.

What is your favorite part of prepping for an upcoming show?
I’m building a brand-new display for this show and I’m thrilled to see how it’s coming together.

What makes this event special for you?
I sell primarily through my Etsy shop online, so while I “talk” to customers daily, it is almost always via computer message. I love getting the chance to interact with people in person.

Is there a story behind your business name?
People frequently use the words “fun” and “cool” when they see my work, so it evolved from that. One customer called me “The Bad-Ass Clock Lady” and I was tempted to rename my shop at one point!

What is a typical day of work like for you?
I am an early riser. Since I work from my home, I am often in my studio by 4-5am. A typical week is 6 or 7 12-hour days, but I do enjoy taking a week or two off whenever I have the chance to visit with my two adult daughters. I do occasionally try to work in some time with my husband, two dogs and the gym!

What is your professional background and how did it lead you to the creative work you are pursuing now?
I have a degree in graphic design and worked in advertising for years. After my kids were born, I began working as a commissioned pencil artist and drew homes and churches all over the world. It was great part-time work while I had little ones to care for. After doing that for many years (and also working in the public school system for a while), I needed a change. My husband fully supported my desire to make a go at becoming a full-time artist. I had a vision for a penny clock and just felt compelled to make it. I did and it sold, and then another, and another, and all of a sudden I knew I was on to something. I am continually having new ideas for designs and it is extremely satisfying to turn them into reality. My father was a wood-worker and built clocks for many years. I did not consciously set out to follow in his footsteps, but that is exactly what I ended up doing. He no longer builds, but is great at giving me advice when I need it and it has become a wonderful connection for the two of us. And I have received many free tools!

How would you describe your shop?
Over 80% of my listings are for custom work. I love talking to my customers and giving them exactly what they need. My designs range from rustic to industrial to modern to farmhouse.

What do you enjoy most about working with your team?
I don’t have a team, no employees.

What do you find the most challenging about your work?
Since I do work alone and at home, it can be isolating. Especially since moving to Dallas from North Carolina, it has been hard to connect with others. I do enjoy the Etsy Dallas group and hope to get to know them better as I become more involved.

Do you have any tips for finding work/life balance?
No, I'm not very good at it! I tend to be a bit work-obsessive.

Is there anything you would like to add?
I once had a customer give me a very unusual but extremely flattering review. Not sure if you can use it, but here goes… This lady had been messaging me about one of my backwards clocks for a week or two. She wanted it but was anxious to spend $200 on a clock. But finally, she said “I have been thinking about this clock constantly as if it is a new lover of mine. I must have it.” HAHA and wow!!!! And yes, she did buy it.

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 9. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} The Crafter Way

Krys is a newcomer to the Bash, and we think you’ll be excited to find The Crafter Way joining us at the 2019 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash. We connected with her for a quick Q&A just for y’all …

What are you most looking forward to for the Jingle Bash?
Making people laugh. I love meeting customers in person and connecting for a moment over a snarky joke or cheesy pun.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?
We have a ton of new cards for the Bash, including some cheeky holiday cards. We also have new mix packs for the forgetful folks who never have a card when they need one.

What makes this event special for you?
The community and collaboration of this group is just magical. It makes me feel whole. I’ve also been lucky enough to volunteer with Etsy Dallas in coordinating the event this year, so I can’t wait to see it come to life!

Is there a story behind your business name?
Most definitely! I love being a crafter of words, but the story is much dorkier than that!

In the late 90s, my bestie, Christine, and I were craft shopping. She’d changed her mind about buying yet another photo box and dropped it on the nearest shelf rather than returning it to where it belonged. I instinctively shouted, “that is not the crafter way!” It became our motto of sorts, and I knew someday it would be my brand.

What is a typical day of work like for you?
I need structure. And I love alliterations. So, my schedule is marketing mornings and art afternoons. After my coffee, I start by working on my Etsy shop, social media, and whatever is on my marketing to do list. After lunch (or my second coffee), it’s time for product development, so illustrating and writing .

What is your professional background and how did it lead you to the creative work you are pursuing now?
In my undergrad, I studied photography and design, and this year I’m finishing my MBA/MS in marketing. My designer and copywriter sides play nicely together for The Crafter Way.

How would you describe your brand?
We make greeting cards and gifts that push the envelope: snarky meets sweet. We want to give you a laugh and it be contagious.

What inspires your work?
I find inspiration in the little awkward moments of day-to-day life. I love to laugh, especially at myself.

What do you enjoy most about working with your team?
Overwhelming love and support. My husband and dearest friends support me at shows, laugh at my jokes, and never complain. Plus they’re my favorite people in the world!

What do you find the most challenging about your work?
Definitely the hardest part for me is knowing when the joke will land with my audience - and not just me, LOL. Also, when the creative spark hits (often at 12 am), I’m notorious for being so absorbed that I forget to do important things… like sleep and eat.

Do you have any tips for finding work/life balance?
No, do you?

Jokes aside, I heard something powerful at a conference recently that really struck a chord. Elizabeth Gilbert shared the story of her journey to becoming a writer, and at a pivotal point her mentor challenged her, “What are you willing to give up to get the life you’re pretending you want?”

I’m a work in progress, but that sentiment inspires me to focus on the good stuff.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We can’t wait to meet you at the Bash!

Meet the Team: Christine, Matt, Krys, Tara (left to right)

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 9. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

DIY Halloween Costume - Monarch Butterfly

It is October! If you are the crafty type like me, it officially means you have been scrolling Pinterest for costume inspiration. Well, I have some happy news for you. Etsy Dallas is pulling their creativity together to share a homemade Halloween costume with you every week this month!

To begin, I’m sharing this show stopping Monarch Butterfly! This was my daughter’s costume last year, and you would not believe how many compliments and responses we had walking down the sidewalk. Some people even crossed the road to get a closer peek. She loved every second of it, and just beamed from door to door.

Now, I won’t lie to you and tell you this was fast and easy. It took some time to create, but the end result was so worth it and the supply cost was modest. If you have a Silhouette Cameo, these cut files (orange and white) will speed things up. If you don’t, print this file twice, and stick each to the backs of your scrapbook paper to cut out the shapes by hand. Our butterfly was about 2’ tall and just under 3’ wide.

Here is what you need: 

Silhouette Cameo 

or Scissors and Patience

4 Sheets Orange Glitter Scrapbook Paper - 12x12

2 Sheets White Glitter Scrapbook Paper - Letter Sized

A Pencil

Glue

Black Foam Core Board

4 Black Elastic Headbands

And, this Reference Photo

Here is how you do it: 

Use Silhouette Studio to cut out the wing shapes. There is a glitter paper setting, but you may have to play with your settings to get it right depending on the brand and weight of your paper. In the file, I have included the upper wing shapes and lower wing shapes. Cut two of the upper wing shapes. Then move the lower wing shapes to the cutting area, and cut two of those. After those have finished cutting, open the dots file, and cut two using the white glitter paper. 

It is a good idea to keep the shapes separated because they add up very quickly. So, use piles or baggies and label them to keep things organized. Once you have separated your shapes, use the reference butterfly to jigsaw the shapes together on top of the foam board like this.

Once you have everything spaced properly, glue the orange pieces down, and lay out the white pieces. This part is a bit tricky, but even if they aren’t an exact mirror, they look real.

Glue those down as well, then use your pencil and reference photo to draw the outline of the butterfly around the pieces. Remember to leave an inch+ border, and add the wavy details! (My pencil outline is a little hard to see in the photo, look towards the bottom left.)

Cut the butterfly outline from the foam board. I had best results with a serrated knife. Follow the steps on the other side with the remaining glitter paper.

Poke two holes in the center top and bottom for the straps. Inserting the knife or scissors and twisting is a good way to do this. Knot the end of two elastics together then string the loops through the hole to make straps. For stabilization, repeat on the second hole.

Pair the wings with a black outfit and shoes, and use pipe cleaners for antennae. 

We would love to see your Halloween crafting on Instagram, tag us @etsydallas.I hope to see you back next week for another handmade costume!

Shop+Artist interview with Innerglow Art

The shop: Innerglow Art
The artist: Sarah Hickey

The name Innerglow was inspired by one of Sarah’s favorite songs in middle school. She loves the word and what it represents. “To me it means letting your inner light shine. True beauty is on the inside and is then reflected outside by the actions and deeds,” Sarah said. “We all have an ‘innerglow.’ We all have a story to share with the world.”

Innerglow Art will be available at the 2017 Jingle Bash. This is Sarah’s first time as a Jingle Bash artist and we are thrilled to have her share her work with you. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and just being a part of a show I’ve heard so many good things about from other vendors,” Sarah said. She is bringing some new items to the Bash. “I’m excited to put my art on objects other than canvases,” she said. Be sure to visit her booth to check out the coasters, kitchen items and more.

A typical day for Sarah begins with coffee (us too!), journaling and quiet time. Then she starts work on commissions. She spends her days painting, dropping off paintings, picking up frames and getting more supplies. You can keep up with her on Instagram @innerglowart for more behind-the-scenes looks. “I love the excitement of creating new things,” she said. “And getting my friends and followers excited about what to look forward to.”

Sarah says she loves color, exploring new techniques, and painting with purpose. She has always enjoyed art but didn’t really pursue it until after college. “One day, I started painting abstract paintings on large canvases and got so much positive feedback from friends and family I started painting more. Before I knew it, I was painting part-time while working my home health speech therapy job,” she said. Now Innerglow is her full-time job. She said it has been fun getting to create her own schedule.

She donates a portion of her earnings every quarter to a non-profit in the Philippines. “I think what people value most in their life will be reflected in their actions day to day. A good priorities check every now and then is good for the soul,” Sarah said. “At the end of the day, ask yourself, did I live my day to its fullest? What would I have wanted to spend more time doing if I could?”

Stop by and say hello to Sarah at the 2017 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash where you can shop the best handmade artists from near and far. We will be at Eddie Deen's Ranch 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, November 11, 2017. See y'all at the Bash!

Shop+Artist interview with Mod + Jo

The shop: Mod + Jo
The artist: Jordan Flynn

When Jordan created Mod + Jo, she wanted to provide unique and affordable accessories that women could buy for themselves and the other women in their lives. “I wanted to fill the gap between inexpensive mass-produced accessories we find at fast fashion shops and high-end designer accessories that make your wallet cringe,” Jordan said. 

Jordan has always been drawn to vintage or “mod” color combinations and modern style with a blend of what is current. That is part of what inspired her shop name. She incorporated that inspiration with "Jo," her childhood nickname. Her typical workday begins with coffee and emails. After taking care of the administrative end of things, she begins working on orders.

“I majored in merchandising at North Texas with a minor in business,” Jordan said. “I also worked at a high-end lifestyle store in Dallas. Having the hands-on experience working with a buyer and artisan pieces really helped push me into the direction of wanting to build something for myself.”

She grew Mod + Jo into what it is now while living abroad for a few years while her husband was on assignment for work. “I had the time to sit back and rebrand,” she said. “Without having the experience overseas through living and traveling, I don’t think Mod + Jo would be what it is today.” 

A big fan of the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash, this will be Jordan’s first time as a vendor at the show. “I’m excited to meet our customers in person, help them style our pieces, and make new relationships,” she said. “I have always been a spectator and shopper at the Bash. It will be exciting now to be on the other side.” Mod + Jo will be introducing some new pieces during the Jingle Bash in addition to offering special discounts for shoppers. 

Stop by and say hello to Jordan at the 2017 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash where you can shop the best handmade artists from near and far. We will be at Eddie Deen's Ranch 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, November 11, 2017. See y'all at the Bash!

Don't miss these Labor Day sales from a few of our Etsy Dallas shops

Don't miss out on these Labor Day deals from some of our favorite Etsy Dallas shops. Here's wishing you all a fun and safe long weekend.

Expressions Bracelets - 20% off all hand-stamped jewelry. No coupon needed. 

Custom maps - 20% off. No coupon needed.

Mesa Blue Jewelry - Free shipping on all orders over $75. Code: FREESHIP

The Pig and the Peacock Soaps & More - 20% off. No coupon needed. 

Wandering Paper Co. - 30% off with code LABORDAY

Whipped Up Wonderful Bath Bombs - 20% storewide sale. No coupon needed.

P.S. Our newsletter subscribers got the scoop about these deals first. *hint hint*

Handmade Father's Day Gift Guide with Heidy

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 18th. Do you have your present yet? We’ve shopped through the best of local Dallas Etsy artists to find unique, handcrafted gifts for Dad and gathered our favorite fifteen here.

From left:  Kat French Designs, Tokodots

But first, the card. Designer, Kat French on her inspiration:

“I made this card thinking of my own dad and my husband who labor all week long then give it their all on the weekends taking care of the house, cars, yards and do it all without complaining.”

And Tokodots’ card is, of course, perfect for anytime you want to thank Dad.

The Top 15 Handmade Father’s Day Gifts

Clockwise from left: Jenny N Design, Mesa Blue, Wingbean Woodworks 

​1. The Professional Backpack from Jenny N Design, $253

2. Leather Wrap Bracelet from Mesa Blue, $25

3. Drink Local Bottle Opener from Wingbean Woodworks, $35

 Clockwise from top left: Piece of Shards, Expressions Bracelets, Rhapsody Letterpress, A Cheery Blossom

4. Docking Station and Organizer from Piece of Shards, $59.95

5. Best Dad Ever Keychain from Expressions Bracelets, $15.95

6. Fahrenheit 451 Literary Quote from Rhapsody Letterpress, $20.00

7. Personalized Leather Notebook from a Cheery Blossom, starting at $30.00

Clockwise from top left: mini-Fab, The Pig and the Peacock, Sasha’s Hand-Poured, Big T Woodworks 

​8. The Trio Multi-tool Pocket Beard Comb from mini-Fab, $34.99

9. Tobacco and Leather Scent Soy Wax Candlefrom The Pig and the Peacock, $10.00

10. Beard Balm from Sasha’s Hand-Poured, $18.00

11. Paduak and Zebrawood Beard Comb from Big T Woodworks, $28.00

Clockwise from top left: Joy Street Maps, Wandering Paper Co., Vinyl Revamped, Mush Tushy 

12. Hand Drawn Map of Dallas Print from Joy Street Maps, starting at $25.00

13. Dallas Skyline Linocut Block Print from Wandering Paper Co, $20

14. Jimmy Buffet Lyrics on Reclaimed Vinyl Record Wall Art from Vinyl Revamped, $15.95

15. Dallas Cowboys Inspired Wall Art from Mush Tushy, $55.00

Happy Father's Day to all our wonderful dads, and thank you for all you do!