DiademJewels: Faerie Inspirations on Etsy

Some weeks ago I invited the featured artists of EtsyLounge to fill out the interview questionnaire at the bottom of this page, and DiademJewels is our first responder. She blogs and sells her wondrous creations on Etsy. Both sites are a feast for the eyes. The artist/designer is a 23 year old biology student with a penchant for belly dancing, steampunk fashions and geeky conventions. Inspired by faerie lore, nature & flowers and Greek mythology, she imbues her designs with romance and mysticism. The craftsmanship is most impressive, especially given she is self-taught. Her favorite materials are sterling silver wire, faceted stones, freshwater pearls, crystals and lampwork beads. Beautiful designs and photography make her store and blog a true feast for the eyes. *The necklace shown at the left is her best-seller, and the other photos show a few of the many lovely creations from DiademJewels.etsy.com.

Outdoor Living with Etsy Creations

Handpicked on Etsy

Summertime in the Pacific Northwest means super long days, entertaining in the garden, al fresco dining and mild evenings on the patio. Today I focused on Etsy creations that enhance outdoor summer life. Featured today are garden enchantments for all ages, functional weatherproof furniture from whimsical to elegant, and a couple of summery wraps for bare shoulders including one of my own cozy wraps that protect against post-sunset breezes. Click on the pictures to go directly to these Etsy listings. Prices range from $17.00 to $925.00
From top left to bottom right, today's featured artisans include: katsarayarns, HangLooseHangers, filofashion, johntunger, CatsMeowArt, calicoskiescrafts, MillionTabbies, AspenIronworks, deliafurniture, joejeach, BearPawPottery

Trolls: Ungainly Beauty on Etsy

Handpicked on Etsy

In Norse mythology, trolls were magical creatures imbued with special skills, often dwelling in caves, mountains or woodlands. More threatening are J.R.R. Tolkein's trolls of the The Hobbit, who inhabit the Middle Earth and are portrayed as oversized, ungainly, super-strong, crude, rather stupid humanoid creatures with comical Cockney accents who enjoy their meat and beer. In my search last week for fairy-inspired creations on Etsy, I ran across doll-makers whose repertoire includes trolls and decided this theme deserves a special showcase. Whether or not you are a doll or a troll afficionado, I suspect most of us can marvel at the artistry displayed by today's featured Etsy artisans who use their sculptural skills and various media in making these imaginitive creatures. Click on the pictures to go directly to these listings. Prices range from $39.99 to $290.00

From top left to bottom right, today's Etsy artists include: ToadstoolsNTreestump, UtesTrolls, thepaintedpoppet, fairyrealm, petradi, jennifercarson, ArtFeyStudio, DollThreadsandClay

Fairies and Nymphs: Unreal Creations on Etsy

Handpicked on Etsy

The artist is like a magician, using not a magic wand but special skills and imagination to transform materials into objects of charm, romance and mystery.
Enchanted creatures inspired today's featured artists to create these examples of modern day romance that celebrate the supernatural beings who dwell in woodland forests. Pagan lore of woodland fairies, nymphs and sprites not only infuse modern day children's tales, but are embraced by grown-up women who use a touch of fairy dust or tattered silk and lace to reveal their inner sprite. Click on the pictures to go directly to these listings. Prices range from $14.50 to $5000.00.
From top left to bottom right, today's Etsy artisans include: catherinavonisenburg, zeng, moosupvalleydesigns, mulberrymud, stelladesigns, catherinavonisenburg, destinationhome, amandarosestudios, emilygrayjewels, EnchantedGypsy