Featured Seller: June from Threshold Paper Art

This week's featured seller is June from Threshold Paper Art.

I was born in Scotland and immigrated to Canada while very young. Interior design was my main occupation. I have a passion for all that is unique and handmade. I have always been on a quest for beauty doing whatever possible to enhance my surroundings and those of my clients. My love of interior design and craft was born. My craft repertoire included batik, decoupage, faux painting interiors, and mosaics. I was dubbed the glue gun queen by my friends.

Ever since my daughter brought home colorful notices home from school, I have been recycling them into homemade paper to produce unique cards. After several years of card making, the themes I was drawn to exploring required a larger format. I recycle paper and other organic material and transform it into art. I cast, embed, and collage the paper with a variety of materials such as metal, found objects, thread, mica, and text to create dimensional imagery. Hand-spun art fibers add a rich textural component to some pieces.

My design sensibility embraces both the old and the new. I explore themes of antiquity and faith, including biblical symbolism. Antiquity is created both by the rich textural properties of the paper and the symbols of the past.

The recurring theme in my art is transformation. Even the paper I make goes through the process of being destroyed in its original plant form, only to be transformed into a work of art. Inspiration is drawn from many sources including nature, ancient times, instrumental music, as well as contemporary design. The transcendent aspect of nature has a strong impact on my work. Much time is spent contemplating the majesty of nature. My sincere desire is to inspire and uplift others.

Check out Threshold Paper Art for more unique artwork. You can also follow the shop on Facebook and Twitter.

Christian Fine Art 8x10 Print Giveaway [CLOSED]

Several years ago, my friends lost their 4-month-old baby. I had a hard time finding an affordable and beautiful gift for them, until I stumbled upon Bugaboo Jewelry (it was also my first giveaway on this blog!). Last year, another woman I know lost her baby, this time in utero. I wanted to get her a similar customized gift, but I didn't know the details that well and didn't know her well enough to ask. I looked for other gift ideas multiple times, but didn't buy any, and thought the lateness of the gift would be awkward.

A year went by, and I thought the anniversary would be a good time for me to try again. I decided on a card I found during one of my previous searches. It was a beautiful drawing of Jesus cuddling a newborn, made by Alicia of Christian Fine Art. I asked Alicia to make it into a card instead of a print so I could write a message to my friend. Not only did she do that for me, but she also included an envelope and an extra card! I hope I won't need to use it anytime soon.

All of Alicia's artwork is wonderful and uplifting.

I am a mom in my mid-30s with four children. I absolutely love music and dancing! I also love ripsticking, long-boarding, roller blading, jogging, and hiking. Most of all, with everything I do in life--whether it's raising children, helping a friend, or painting a picture--my greatest desire is to inspire people to believe in Christ, His love, and His grace and to follow His words. This desire to share my personal testimony is born of the hope, joy, and peace I have found in my faith.

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*Beautiful, realistic artwork.
*Great gifts and home decor for Christians, and inspirational artwork that the nonreligious can appreciate as well.
*Excellent customer service! Alicia responds to questions quickly and is very accommodating.
  
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*I would love to see new artwork in the shop!

 One of you will win an 8x10 print of any baby-themed drawing! Open to the U.S. & Canada.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Paper Plaza Mini 3D Card Giveaway [CLOSED]

Here is the third, and final, review and giveaway from Vishruti's Etsy shops. This time it is for her paper shop, Paper Plaza:

I was born with a love for all things paper and developed a keen sense of environment conservation at a very young age. I got into crafting as a kid, but my interest grew more during my teens. I would typically be interested in paper, glitter, packaging, re-using, artistic design, poster making--what we call today communication design. 

Paper Plaza is all things paper with a touch of India and personal style. I love sourcing these wonderful Indian envelopes with lot of character. I make sure that they are of great quality. People use them as note card holders, gifting sets, envelope systems, etc. 

The first items listed were little handmade notecards. They sold very quickly! They surely carry a lot of emotion and "cute" with them. The whole idea of creating something so small and cute is awesome.  Each card is a piece of art, special and unique in its appearance and ready to ship--and they all ship free with another item!

Vishruti sent me this mini card and scrapbook flowers to review:

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*I love that the card is so small. I don't like writing meaningless or repetitive phrases on a blank card just for the sake of filling empty space, so these tiny cards are perfect for when you don't have much to say besides congratulations and your name.
*Very cute designs and lovely colors. The 3D look makes the cards classier and professional.
*The scrapbook flowers add the perfect Indian flair.
*Great customer service as always!

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*Some of the jewels on the flowers are off center.

Enter to win any mini 3D greeting card! Open worldwide.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Featured Seller: Rita from WhiteQuiet

This week's featured seller is Rita from WhiteQuiet, a shop of lovely crocheted items and vintage-inspired illustrations.

My name is Rita, and I am from Moscow, Russia. One day I decided to mix up my hobbies: handcrafting, fashion, design, and Internet marketing. Then I spiced it up with my favorite styles: bohemian, tribal, rustic, cottage chic, and vintage. I like playing with colors and getting inspired by nature. I work with all natural materials: pure wool, cotton, linen, soy yarn, gemstones, wood, and metal.

My Etsy shop is pretty new; I am still looking for the right concept and the right way to run my online business. I am really happy to find and join the Etsy community, and I hope to stay here for long.

Check out WhiteQuiet for more pretty products! You can also follow Rita and her shop on Tumblr, Pinterest, and Facebook.

Featured Sellers: Unique Artists on Etsy

This week's featured sellers all share one thing in common: they sell artwork. First is Nicole of Art, Design and Dreams, seller of photography cards and upcycled vintage items.

Exploring the world, its society and culture. Experimenting with its materials. Preserving real beauty. Discovering true happiness. Staying curious. That is my way as a crossmedia designer to approach art, design and dreams.

Facebook
Blog
Site

Second is Stanka of Lady Art Talk, seller of collages and wall art.

Design, the manufacturing of different things, the redesigning of clothes from old materials – these were always a part of my life. Since I can remember, I was always painting and coloring anything I could get my hands into. However, university education and my profession brought me to entirely different areas, like economy and sociology. A part of me was still waiting for the opportunity to create, and when I took the decision to do what I like most, everything became clear, and the next steps followed naturally.

About two years ago, I decided to do something new. While surfing on the Internet, I discovered lots of videos related to the work I do now – instantaneously I knew that this is what I wanted to do. I always had a passion for changing things into something else, and collage opened up a new possibility to express this emotion. Etsy popped up as 'the' place for selling my work. The magic of inspirational art is that it reminds you of who you are.

Twitter
Pinterest

Third is Janet from Made by JH, seller of handpainted iPhone cases.

I am a painter and student, living in the little big city of Charlotte, NC. I have studied accounting and marketing, but ultimately found my love in the arts. I love luxury fashion, hot fries, and family. I have a passion for making everyday items into a work of art. I am inspired by the sea, bold colors, textures, and the work of Vincent Van Gogh.

Facebook
Instagram

Indian Journals Upcycled Journal Giveaway [CLOSED]

I just did a giveaway for Vandana of Vintage Vandu. Now it's time to feature her lovely daughter, Vishruti, and her shop Indian Journals. 

My name is Vishruti. I live in Mumbai, India, with a very loving and supportive husband. I have a brilliant family to be proud of. My journey on Etsy began before my marriage, in 2009. At that time, my Etsy shop was an extension of my existing organic cotton fabrics and garments business and was originally named Adya International, like my off-Etsy business. 

As time passed, and my interest in eco, organic, recycled, earth-friendly products grew, I slowly forayed into paper products made from recycled and handmade paper. I also started to show keen interest in re-using and upcycling leftover fabrics into products of art. The journals were a natural byproduct of this idea. 

"Renew, Reuse, and Recycle" has always been our Mantra. Our shop uses upcycled saris , brocade woven fabric remnants, patchwork embroidered fabrics, Indian art screens, and traditional stitched and bound-book stitching techniques to create distinct and instantly appealing journals. We also use recycled paper which is then converted into handmade paper. 

Indian Journals is all about the extensive, beautiful, one-of-a-kind journals that give my customers delight and immense happiness, evident in the reviews and feedback I have received over the years.

Vishruti sent me this beautiful journal to review:

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*Eco friendly: made of upcycled fabrics and handmade paper.
*Small enough to fit in a purse to take with you.
*Variety of vibrant colors and patterns to choose from.
*Great prices and service.

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*None.

One of you lucky readers will win any 6x4 Indian journal you like! This giveaway is open worldwide.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Featured Seller: Oana from Art is Art 2014

This week's featured seller is Oana from Art is Art 2014.

I love art. I am a professional watercolor painter and calligrapher. I figured, why not do artful invitations with what I already know? Love my job :)

Check out Art is Art 2014 for more original artwork and even custom portraits. Use the coupon code OANA2014 for 10% off! You can also follow the shop on Facebook.

PoYo Designs Greeting Cards Giveaway [CLOSED]

I was very happy when Lorraine from PoYo Designs contacted me about doing a review and giveaway. I love writing thank you notes and sending letters, so her greeting card shop was a perfect fit for my blog. Here is a little about Lorraine:

I am a busy mum of three small boys, and I draw in between jobs. I have always drawn my own cards, mostly for family. I am inspired by colour, pattern, and texture. Drawing gives me the opportunity to balance myself and it makes me very content. Added bonus of course is to sell my work! I opened my Etsy shop in October. 

Why 100 percent handmade? The reason behind the printer-free zone is a basic one: I love to draw and paint. I love cards; I look for something really special. and different. I make cards that mean something to me and I hope they will mean something to you or the person you send it too.

 

Lorraine sent me these three cards to review:

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*Cute, original designs that are always hand drawn.
*Specific-event and all-occasion cards.
*Even the card shape is different than your everyday greeting card!
*I love her handwriting!
*Drawn on good quality card stock.
*Protectively packaged.
*Great customer service.

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*Not the best price for U.S. buyers, but if you give it to someone who keeps and cherishes cards, it's worth it!

One of you will win any 3 cards of your choice!

1 entry: Visit PoYo Designs and tell me which cards you would choose if you won.

1 entry: Pin any item to Pinterest.

1 entry: Follow PoYo Designs on Twitter.

1 entry: Like PoYo Designs on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect.

1 entry each (4 total possible): Share this giveaway on Facebook,  Twitter, Google+, or your blog.


Rules

• Please leave a separate comment for each entry. 
• Please leave your email address with one of your comments so I can contact you if you win.
• All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Monday, March 17. 
• This giveaway is open worldwide.

Bing Art 8x10 Pink & Purple Nightscape Print Giveaway [CLOSED]

I am very picky when it comes to art. I prefer photography and typography, and when it comes to painting, I sometimes enjoy watercolors. However, it is impossible not to like the beautiful oil paintings of Rachel Bingaman of Bing Art.

I'm a full-time professional artist living in the D.C. area with my husband and two beautiful children. My original oil paintings are internationally collected and can be found in private collections all over the world! 

My focus is primarily on contemporary and abstract landscapes. I pull colors from past memories and present experience and mix them into something I think is fit for canvas. Even the most mundane of moments can find itself transferred onto canvas.

Rachel  has an extensive award list, too, and her work has been featured in an art book and on the NBC series Save Me. I love the bright, bold colors in contrast with the whimsical, soft shapes. Some of her more abstract pieces remind me of sophisticated versions of illustrations from Dr. Seuss books. The one below reminds me of the opening title of the show Once Upon a Time.

One of you will win this stunning 8x10 giclee print of a pink and purple nightscape!

1 entry: Visit Bing Art and tell me what else you like.

1 entry: Heart Bing Art on Etsy. Leave your username.

1 entry: Like Bing Art on Facebook. Leave your username. 

1 entry: Subscribe to the email list for Rachel's blog.

1 entry: Like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect.

1 entry each (4 total possible): Post this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or your blog.

Rules

• Please leave a separate comment for each entry. 
• Please leave your email address in one of your comments so I can contact you if you win.
• All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Saturday, February 22. 
• This giveaway is open to the U.S. & Canada.

Words Turned into Art Customized Word Art Giveaway [CLOSED]

As a linguist and word nerd, I love word art. So I was very happy when Bano from Words Turned into Art approached me.

I'm a stay-at-home mom of a girl (7) and twin boys (4). I've always wanted to run my own business, and now that my kids are in school for part of the day, I think it's a good time for me to start. I've always been somewhat creative and designed original artwork for my children's rooms. Many of my friends have commented on them, saying that I should start a business selling them, so here we are! 

She personalized this Love print for me. I chose the colors, size, and all the words.

Isn't it beautiful? Much better than printing off generic Valentine's Day subway art! I decorated it with heart stickers and put it in a white frame on my mantle. (No photo because the lighting in my apartment stinks!)

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*Detailed customization (not many sellers offer so much personalization on word/subway art).
*Wonderful customer service and communication.
*Cute, original designs.
*Digital files mean no shipping costs!

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*More designs, please!

TWO WINNERS will get to choose their own personalized digital prints! Don't see a design you like? That's okay; she is willing to work with you in creating something new!

1 entry: Visit Words Turned into Art and tell me what design you would get and how you would personalize it.

1 entry: Heart Words Turned into Art on Etsy. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow Words Turned into Art on Twitter.

1 entry: Pin any print to Pinterest.

1 entry: Like Words Turned into Art on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect.

1 entry each (4 total possible): Post this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or your blog.

Rules

• Please leave a separate comment for each entry. 
• Please leave your email address in one of your comments so I can contact you if you win.
• All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Monday, February 17. 
• This giveaway is open worldwide.

Fun and Baubles $10 Store Credit Giveaway [CLOSED]

How many of you love vintage books, particularly Jane Austen? Then this giveaway for $10 to spend at the shop Fun and Baubles is perfect for you! First, a little about the seller:

Hello, I'm Ekatrina, a single 30-something-year-old mommy to a precious little one and currently working on a Biology PhD. In my spare time, I run a few online shops. One, Fun and Baubles, holds vintage treasures and handmade jewelry. It gives me an excuse to poke around old places and bring home unique vintage items to clean up and share, as well as a venue for my artistic jewelry design work. 

The second shop--Cards, Art, and Gifts--highlights my collection of vintage images and Photoshop abilities. It is a paradise for lovers of old books! I clean up beautiful old illustrations and print them on cards and posters. I’m also hoping to add small gift items such as bath salts, magnets, and gourmet hot chocolates to this shop soon.

My third and newest shop is hosted on Zibbet. It contains almost all the items found in my two Etsy shops (except the posters) and is the most likely to feature random sales just because I feel like it.
 
As if a child, school, and three online shops weren’t enough, I’ve started a blog! You can expect to find recipe reviews, helpful suggestions, DIY projects, and my favorite books, as well as excellent products from around the internet.

Ekatrina sent me a pretty card to review. It is an illustration from Jane Austen's Mansfield Park.

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*Lovely selection of illustrations.
*Comes with a self-sealing envelope.
*Shipped in a protective sheet.
*Perfect for many occasions: thank you, bridal shower, anniversary, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, thinking of you, just because, etc. (plus other cards in the shop work for baby showers)
*Great customer service. She sent me that particular card because she read on my blog that I love dancing! How considerate is that?

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*Sturdier card stock would make the cards feel more professional.

One of you will win $10 to her Zibbet store. If you already see something you like, use the coupon MOTHERHOOD for 12% off your purchase from the Zibbet shop!

1 entry: Visit Fun and Baubles on Zibbet and tell me what you would get with the $10.

1 entry: Subscribe to Ekatrina's mailing list to be notified of sales.

1 entry each (2 total possible): Heart Fun and Baubles or Cards, Art, and Gifts on Etsy. Leave your username.

1 entry: Pin any item to Pinterest.

1 entry: Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect.

1 entry: Like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry each (4 total possible): Post this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or your blog.

Rules

• Please leave a separate comment for each entry. 
• Please leave your email address in one of your comments so I can contact you if you win.
• All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Saturday, February 1. 
• This giveaway is open worldwide.

Eternal Girl $10 Store Credit Giveaway & Necklace Review [CLOSED]

I am so excited to share with you Julia's lovely Etsy shop Eternal Girl, which sells henna-inspired, hand-drawn jewelry and greeting cards.

I am from the DC area and am from a large family, with six siblings. I've always loved drawing ever since I was little, and a few years ago, I started incorporating it into my jewelry. My designs are inspired by henna art: each drawing features symbolic images specific to henna tradition. Available products include necklaces, rings, earrings, and open-ended greeting cards. Custom orders are also available.When I'm not fixated on my Etsy shop, I take care of children and pets. I love cooking, the outdoors, yoga, and swimming.

Julia let me pick a necklace to review, and I chose this stunning one:

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*Beautiful artwork! It looks even better in person.
*Good quality pendant and chain. Easy to put on.
*Comes in a darling handmade paper box.
*Great prices.
*Excellent customer service.

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*None

One of you lucky readers will win $10 store credit to buy whatever you want from Eternal Girl.

1 entry: Visit Eternal Girl and tell me what you would get with the store credit.

1 entry: Heart Eternal Girl on Etsy. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow Eternal Girl on Pinterest. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow Julia's blog on GFC or bloglovin'.

1 entry: Follow Eternal Girl on Twitter. Leave your username.

1 entry: Like Eternal Girl on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle on Facebook. Leave your username.

1 entry: Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect.

1 entry each (4 total possible): Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or your blog.

Please leave a separate comment for each entry. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Monday, December 16. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, December 17. Please leave your email in one of the entries so I can contact you if you win. This giveaway is open worldwide. Good luck!

Watch Me Grow Pregnancy & Baby Month Stickers Review

Throughout my pregnancy I took a few belly photos with pregnancy month stickers on my tummy. They were courtesy of Watch Me Grow Stickers, which primarily makes pregnancy and baby month stickers. Isn't this one cute?

I was given this set to review:

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*Large
*Creative designs and wide variety to choose from
*Inexpensive
*Good customer service

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*A couple of the images were fuzzy, but only in this set. The other designs have higher quality digital images.

I wish there were a way to save the stickers to reuse them with the next pregnancy/baby. Maybe use wax paper? Any ideas?

Check out Watch Me Grow Stickers for more cute sets! And you can use the code CLOSET for 20% off their new closet dividers!