Interview - Miss Genki

Interview with the lovely Tanaz of Miss Genki!

Q. Please tell us a little about your self and Miss Genki:/Q. What made you start making jewellery?

My name is Tanaz and my life has always lacked creative energy. I have been learning jewellery making and always know trends. I just Love it. It just never occurred to me to actually start my own Jewellery so I did. I just think you should follow your heart and just do what makes you happy. OK here is a little more about me: I lived half my life in Iran, the other half in Cardiff Wales. Then one day I realised how I needed more and I should experience one other culture. I have always had a love for Japan. But I was too scared to go alone, in the end I believe Japan chose me as the job as an English teacher came my way and before I knew it I was in training and getting ready. The second I got on the plane it hit me I was going to Japan and it was scary, but mostly exciting. It was the best think i ever did. Took the chance to the pursuit of happiness and I know myself much more because of it. It was there that I discovered my love for Japanese fashion and there the seed of the idea for Miss Genki was planted.

Miss Genki is based on the wacky, fun, cute and uniqueness of Japanese fashion. It was so inspiring to see people dress in what made them happy and it was all so much fun. I felt free. So I wanted to share that with others. As well as wanting my ideas and my creativity to be seen. For the first time in my life I was doing things based on what made ME happy and not all the things I was always meant to be. I feel free and happy when I am buying new items looking for new idea and just everything to do with Miss Genki. This is why I named it Miss Genki, which reflects all this. Genki means happy, joyful, being OK and the word Genki itself is the exact way I felt. I truly know what Genki means now and before Japan I was never truly happy. So you could say I have finally found myself and let myself feel the good things in life. Life is too short and what counts is how happy you are and seeing all the good you are blessed with not concentrating on the bad or things you are not give.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I live in Cardiff, Wales.

Q. What are your favourite pieces to make?

My favourite pieces at the moment are Owls and recently have elephant necklaces too. I don't know why but absolutely love Owls, they are just so pretty. I also love "Love" necklaces and earrings. Anything that's romantic based, even red lips (which I have recently got). Oh the romantic stuff does not at all reflect my own life. I just think Loving yourself first before anyone else is most important. There are a lot I don't like about myself, but think as women we are too quick to judge ourselves. I do it all the time myself mainly how i have gained weight or how i want to be back to my smaller size. I just like to have something that reminds me of who I am and that I like myself regardless of all the other things I think I should be. Its a nice feeling.

Q. What are your best sellers?

I think the owl necklaces have been most popular and the camera. I guess because they are different and they are things you can't find most places. Most of my items are quite popular as they are all quite unique.

Q. Do you wear your jewellery yourself?

Yes. I buy what I like. My favourite pieces at the moment are Owl and elephants. I absolutely love owls not sure why as they do seem creepy, but in jewellery I like their roundness and big eyes.
I have this one owl that I adore and don't wanna part with it. I know the whole idea is to sell it but I just love most things so always have an extra for myself because once I don't I remember how pretty it was and wish I had one for me, lol.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

My main inspiration is Tokyo's fashion scene. I just notice everyday things and as I buy from all kinds of places, I just go through pictures and buy what I like. I just think what would I like to wear to make me happy or put a smile on my face. I love pearls, but also like anything funky and fun. I just think fashion should be fun. As we grow up we just seem to forget how to have fun, so we have to do so in most things we do. In what we wear (I don't mean looking silly, just to dress for ourselves), what we do and surround ourselves with good vibes.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

This is more of of a fantasy, but my big dream would be for Miss Genki to be a brand and to sell in big shops under my own name. Then as my biggest inspiration has been Tokyo would like to have a little boutique either in Harajuku (which has the funkiest boutiques) or in the most famous department store in Shibuya called 109. These were places I would shop at and I think if I ever make it that far, I know I have done something very right. As for me I see myself in 5years making/selling jewellery as a full-time career and being more creative with my life. Hopefully also have time to take breaks and not be how I am now which is work full time and Miss Genki in all the free time I get.

You can find Miss. Genki on Facebook
www.facebook.com/missgenkijewellery

And http://www.missgenki.com/ will be coming soon!

Interview - Kokokelli

Dotted with hearts interview Kelly of Kokokelli :-)

Q. Please tell us a little about yourself and Kokokelli

My name is Kelly 'Womble' Johnson and I'm 29 years old. Kokokelli is my crafting name and I started making handmade jewellery & greeting cards in January 2010.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I'm from Oldbury in the West Midlands (not far from Birmingham/Dudley/West Bromwich/Smethwick)

Q. What made you get into jewellery and card making?

I've always been very arty farty and praised highly for my creative talents. I saw some jewellery that a friend had made at a jewellery workshop run at the Birmingham Bead Shop (http://www.thebirminghambeadshop.co.uk/) and just thought to myself "yeah I could do that!" so I bought a small starter kit with the tools and findings off eBay and it went from there really. I used my best friend as a kind of guinea pig as it was her birthday the end of January lol so I made her a handmade birthday card and made her a necklace, bracelet & earring set which she absolutely loved!!

Q. What are your most popular items?

I don't really have any 'best sellers' so to speak but I seem to sell more bracelets more than anything at the moment as they are reasonably priced and different from those you see in the shops (as is everything else I make)

Q.What do you enjoy making the most?

I absolutely love making custom orders for people as each one is unique and one of a kind! It's also a challenge and I love a good challenge! Especially when there's certain things you need to find for a certain piece. I've done some lovely jewellery sets, badge bracelets and a beautiful wedding card which was just a masterpiece in my eyes! lol

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I get asked this question quite a bit lol I get my inspiration from many things I guess, stuff I like, stuff I've grown up with, people I've known, I even run ideas past my mom sometimes lol. They'll be days when something will just pop in my head or I'll be out and about and I'll see something and it'll just trigger off a huge light bulb in my head lol.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

I would love nothing more than to have my own proper business from home doing what I do best and making lots of money from it lol (who wouldn't) plus that way I'd be able to start the family I've always wanted and still work at the same time.

Q. What are you doing for Halloween?

To be honest I don't really do the whole Halloween thing anymore. We went trick or treating a couple of times as kids but that's about it. It's not really the same as it used to be now especially round here, sometimes you're scared to answer the door when you've got masked hoodies banging who are only after your money anyway! It may change when I have kids and it would be nice to take them trick or treating while they're young so they can have some fun, we'll just have to wait and see lol.

Kokokelli Shop - http://www.folksy.com/shops/Kokokelli

Kokokelli Fanpage - http://www.facebook.com/Kokokelli

Kokokelli Twitter - http://twitter.com/KokokelliWomble

Kokokelli Blog - http://kokokelli.blogspot.com/

Email - womblej70@hotmail.co.uk

Interview - Crafty Chics

Dotted with Hearts got to interview the lovely Charlie of Crafty Chics.

Q. Please tell us a little about yourself and Crafty Chics

My name is Charlie I’m married to Mr Smith and have 3 quite fabulous kids, Tyler, Macy Mai, and our latest Big Ron … Pre children I studied fashion promotion and graphic design and have always had a passion for fashion and accessories. Being a Mummy meant I could give up full time work and concentrate on making a lovely home and lovely things. My most favoured treasures in the world are my family and friends, and my LV bag. I love vintage lace and Sunday morning car booting followed by lunch at Nana's.

Crafty Chics was created out of the love of all things vintage, I hope you will find a unique selection of accessories made from some gorgeous new materials as well as some very unique vintage pieces. Some beautiful flowery Headbands, Tiaras, Hair Combs and Bobby Pins perfect for any occasion, from everyday wear through to Mother of the bride.
Plus some beautifully handmade Shoulder Pads, perfect to dress up any outfit, some fantastic shoe clips to vamp up a pair of shoes or flip flops, and some very individual rings and brooches. I work alot on individual customers requirements.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I am based in Leigh On Sea in Essex, it is a beautiful area of the world to live.

Q. What made you get into crafting?

In my teens I started making jewellery for myself and friends, mainly through the desire to have items that were individual. Probably like many other crafters and designers I have dabbled in lots of crafts including card making and home wares over the years. But my heart has always been in accessories.

Q. What your most favourite things to make?

That's a hard one I love making the shoulder accessories, I love the time I spend making them and that each one is unique in its own way. But give me a piece of lace and some ribbon and I'll happily make anything.

Q. What are your most popular items?

I would say the elasticated headbands are very popular, whether it be with a single ribbon flower or a headband with a cluster of lace flowers. They are so versatile and different flowers and colouring can change them from something to throw on with jeans and a shirt to something to wear for a night out.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I get my inspiration from all manor of places. I love looking out for new trends from the catwalk, but I also take inspiration from my surroundings and nature. Sometimes just looking at a pile of ribbon and lace together on my table can be enough to come up with a new design.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

Crafty Chics is still very new and I am keen to let it grow naturally, and have fun along the way. I have recently started selling through boutiques locally here in Leigh On Sea, so I am keen to expand on that. Probably every designers dream is to own their own boutique which I would obviously love. I would say though in five years times I would just like to see myself happily creating accessories with happy customer x

You can find Crafty Chicks on Facebook www.facebook.com/craftychics or you can visit the website at http://www.craftychics.weebly.com/

Photos by Bump Baby and Beyond Photgraphy http://www.facebook.com/bumpbabybeyondphotography

Interview - CandyDoll Couture

Dotted with Hearts got to interview the very talented Emma of

Candy Doll Couture!

Q. Tell us a little about yourself and CandyDoll Couture

Hi! I'm Emma, owner of CandyDoll Couture. I am 23 years old and love anything Kawaii! I have always had an interest in arts and crafts ever since I was a little girl and decided to study Art and Design at college. I then went onto studying Textiles which is where I found my love for sewing and print! When I was 17 I started buying in band t-shirts and reconstructing them into cute dresses and tops with contrasting fabrics. I then moved onto Jewellery making. I found out about Fimo (Polymer clay) and discovered all the amazing things you could do with it which is where I began to come up with quirky, colourful charms and pendants.
I started CandyDoll Couture officially in 2008 on Etsy.com. I felt there was a gap in the market in the UK for Kawaii and Lolita jewellery and decided to come up with pieces that were inspired from childhood characters such as Hello Kitty and Barbie. I then started sourcing charms from Japan and China, mixing these with kitsch and handmade charms made by me. In 2009 I decided to leave Etsy and set up my dot com. Etsy is a great place to showcase your creations and find unique items but I felt that I wanted to take my business further and be in complete control of my website.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I live in the North East of England, dreaming of one day moving to New York!

Q. What made you get into crafting?

My grandmother is a knitter and seamstress so I was brought up with the crafts. I used to sit with her and make plush toys and miniature clothes for my Barbies. I also loved drawing and would constantly make cards for my family members! Then, when I was at college I had the best Art tutor. She always encouraged me to push the boundaries and try new things. She really helped me to discover what it was I really wanted to do.

Q. What are your favourite items to make? Do you make custom pieces?

My favourite items to make are the fimo food such as the Marshmallow charm bracelet and glittery Cupcake bracelets. I also love making little purses, which I have recently started adding to the site! I plan to make some make-up bags and Ipod cases also.

Q. What are your most popular items?

The rainbow and clouds kawaii felt brooch is very popular, along with the dead bunny phone charm. My cute greetings cards are also popular at craft fairs!

Q. Do you wear your pieces yourself?

I do. I tend to make things and then decide I must keep this one, and that one, as I love them so much! I normally wear my hair clips and bracelets.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

Japanese street fashion is my main inspiration. I love all the different styles such as Decora, Lolita, Visual Kei etc. I love the FRUiTS books by Shoichi Aoki and also the Gothic and Lolita Bibles. My favourite designers are Betsey Johnson and Tarina Tarantino. I also love Doe Deere (aka LimeCrime) and Shrinkle too!

Q. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone else thinking about selling there own crafts?

All I would say is just to follow your heart and do what you love. The best thing to do as well if you are selling your crafts online is to build up a network and promote, promote, promote your wares! Carry your business cards with you everywhere, you never know who you might meet!

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

I would love to eventually sell my screen printed fabric and t-shirts, stock my items in various boutiques and open my own bricks and mortar shop!

You can find Candy Doll Couture on the following sites...

http://www.candydollcouture.com

http://www.candydollcouture.blogspot.com

http://www.twitter.com/candydollshop

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/CandyDoll-Couture/183514012429

Interview - Creaciones Alraune

Interview with Creaciones Alraune

Q. Tell us a little and yourself and Creaciones Alraune

I come from Spain. I was born in Cádiz, and since I was a child, I felt attracted by crafting, it was one of my favourite sunjects at school. Through the years, it has became my way of living...

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I live in Galicia since 1992, it,s placed on the northeast of Spain. There are strong Celtic roots in this country, and it is reflected on the arts in general.

Q. What made you start dress making and crafting?

Since I was a child, when someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I used to say "fashion designer", I wanted to create beautiful clothes and accessories, so I was always making clothes for my dolls, and painting dresses. I think I had it really clear.

Q. What are your favourite items to create?

I enjoy a lot when making corsets and mini hats, I love to see their creation, what they become when they're finished.

Q. What are your most popular items?

I could say corsets, girls love it, even though they're not the cheapest products amongst my creations..... I guess that it is because they can be made at the wish of the costumer, and choose fabrics, colours, embroideries, embellishments....

Q. Where can people buy your creations? Do you do custom orders?

My creations are not found on stores, sorry! Anyone interested can contact me and order anything. And yes, I do custom orders. On the fact, the immense majority of the things I do are requested by my costumers. They ask me something, and generally, they accept suggestions, I guess I'm lucky about it...

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

It may sound as a topic, but inspiration is everywhere, and it comes when it's less expected! It may be a film, a book, a vintage image, generally I love to take a look at some of my books about history of fashion, and look for details. So, the results can be both Gothic, Steam punk, Victorian, Retro or vintage.... but never the things you,ll find on an ordinary store.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

On a backstage, looking at models dressed with my creations on the catwalk. Or creating clothes for a historical film, or doing historical reproductions for a Fashion museum.... who knows!! Anyway, I can't imagine my life and my future without a nail in my hand....

Links to Creaciones Alraune

http://www.creaciones-alraune.es/blog

I'm on facebook too. Just search for "Creaciones Alraune".

Interview -The Deity Chain

Dotted with Hearts interviewed the lovely Soo of The Deity Chain!

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and The Deity Chain

A: My name is Soo, and i am a 44 year old mother of 3. I've always been what you could describe as 'arty'. and i just love making things! whether that be a piece of jewellery, a painting, or as i have done more recently, a bag!
I founded The DeityChain in 2008 and it consists of me and my children..well, when i say children, my boys are men now, lol! They help in lots of ways, with the packaging, marketing, etc...and making me lots of cups of coffee when i am busy making orders!
My daughter is incredibly talented: watch out for some of her work appearing in the 'art' section of The DeityChain website! :)

Q. Where in the world are you based?

A: I am based in the North-West of England, near Manchester.

Q.What made you start making jewellery?

A: about 5 years ago i started making my own cards to send to friends and family: i used to attach little charms and pieces of jewellery to them, and after lots of suggestions to sell them, i started doing just that!...at craft fairs, car boots, etc.... then in 2008 i started The DeityChain: by this point i had already started to make jewellery which was selling faster than the cards(!), and i built a website which i have just recently updated as i thought the old site was looking a bit tired and jaded!

Q. What are your most popular pieces?

A: My bag charms are very popular, understandably(!!), the faerie necklaces and wraparound bracelets have always sold well and the little heart boxes i have just introduced seem to be going down well too!

Q. Do you wear the jewellery you make yourself?

A: of course! promote, promote, promote, lol! ...but seriously, yes, the great thing about being able to make it yourself is you can make exactly what you really like, and change it as often as you like! I also always, always have my bag charms and fabric hearts attached to my handbag.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

A: well now, that is an easy one! F-A-E-R-I-E-S! yeah, i know, I'm a middle-aged woman who is STILL hung up on faeries, but what can i say? i love them! ...i just love the whole romance of them, the idea that they are watching, protecting and causing mischief....yeah, faeries definitely... .....and hearts .....and flowers.... I'm just an old romantic at heart! :)

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

A: gosh...well....i would love love LOVE to be running The DeityChain as a full-time business.
i am certainly happiest fiddling about making pieces of jewellery or painting..
My dream is for The DeityChain to be a recognised name..... a label... something people would know just by looking at it...that would be great!



www.thedeitychain.com
email: soo@thedeitychain.com

Interview - Toxic Cherry

Interview with Toxic Cherry

Q. Tell us a little about yourself and Toxic Cherry Jewellery

I have been designing jewellery since 2009 but never really took it all that seriously. I'm a naturally creative person and a few months back when a friend mentioned she'd love to start a jewellery business, I had that little light bulb moment. I already had all the designs so all I had to do was get down to the practical side. I give credit to my mom for suggesting materials and such lol. Toxic Cherry launched officially as a business at the end of August this year and I appreciate all the support so much.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

Based in Birmingham in the UK but have customers all across the UK and hopefully will expand internationally.

Q. What made you get into crafting?

As I said earlier, I'd always love designing pieces and it was my friend that spurred me on to turning them into solid creations :)

Q. What are your favourite items to make?

I love making all of them. Honestly lol. I would never make an item that I wouldn't love to wear myself so I put a lot of effort into design and making them.

Q. What are your most popular items?

It seems quite equal across the board at the moment. Customers compliment the 'razzle dazzle' pieces the most but I've had a lot of interest in the clay hearts and leopard print bows.

Q. Do you wear your jewellery & accessories yourself?

Yes all the time. :) Like I said, I would never make anything I didn't love myself or didn't deem 'fit' to wear. Plus, it's a great marketing technique, especially on nights out and people ask where you get your jewellery from :)

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

The general feel of the 'rock' scene in the UK and 'old skool' tattoo designs. I'd say my main demographic is the 'alternative' subculture so I take a lot of inspiration from designs associated with them.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

Still running Toxic Cherry hopefully. And fingers crossed by then it will have taken off internationally. It is my great passion at the moment. And I'd love it to be a big part of my future.

You can find Toxic Cherry at...
www.facebook.com/toxiccherryjewellery

Sadly Toxic Cherry received some abuse and criticism at the start of her launch, she says ' I would like to point out to your readers and repeat what I have said from the start, I have at no point intentionally 'copied' anyone or any design. My jewellery stems from my ideas and my mothers suggestions. Any likeness to another jeweller is coincidental'.

Interview - Delicious Secrets

Dotted With Hearts got to interview jewellery maker,

Jo, from Delicious Secrets

Q. Tell us a little about yourself and Delicious Secrets

Well my name is Joanne, Jo for short and I am 19 almost 20. Ever since I was young, I have loved anything involving art and making things. I studied art at secondary school and carried it on at college receiving a national award and a national diploma for art and design. Throughout college and school, I managed to get my hands dirty and create things which I loved. Delicious Secrets started earlier on this year. I got the ideas from other jewellery designers. Whenever I have browsed jewellery within shops and online, I also thought it’ll be amazing to be able to create my own. Other people have been my inspiration.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I am based in Kent, United Kingdom. I live at home with my parents and siblings so I create everything from home.

Q. What made you get into crafting?

I’ll say from a young age of enjoying Art and design it is from this that is has progressed from. Inspirations from other jewellers and other pieces have also had a take on this.

Q. What are your favourite items to make?

I really like making the ‘candy’ items the most. Each charm is unique from the one before and the one after this. My favourite charms I’ve made are the gingerbread men and the cookies.

Q. What are your most popular items on Delicious Secrets?

I’ll have to say, the Filigree butterfly which is the Facebook profile image, has become the most popular and has drawn a lot of attention to Delicious Secrets. Also, the mini jar collections have attracted a lot of eyes.

Q. Do you wear your jewellery & accessories yourself?

I wear the belt look bracelets on a daily basis. My favourite ones I wear are the blue and white, together. As for my other items, I haven’t worn any of these yet because I have small stock because I have just started up and I don’t want to little amount of my items in case customers wanted them. I have a few ideas and items coming up and I will defiantly be taking one out for myself of these.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

Anything cute, vintage or girly becomes an inspiration to me. As well as other jewellery designers.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

Besides jewellery crafting, I also have a passion for photography. I’ll hopefully like to see myself making this more of a career for myself and keeping up with the jewellery designing.

People can contact me through facebook which is http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php?id=100001417848187&ref=ts

or you can search Deliciious-Secrets Jewellery.

Items can also be purchased from http://www.delicious-secrets.co.uk/

Interview - Embroidery Emporium

Interview with Vicki of Embroidery Emporium!

Q. So tell us a bit about yourself and Embroidery Emporium

OK, well I'm Vicki! I recently graduated in music but sewing it seems, has taken over my life :) I got taught how to cross stitch when I was about 7 or 8 and have always enjoyed making things by hand. I've been making cross stitched cards for friends and family for several years now and really love creating that perfect card for a special occasion. It's only really been since I finished University and regained some free time that I have started trying to advertise the things I make more on the Internet and start selling custom made items. As well as cross stitching cards and gifts I have also started making embroidered felt key rings, which are great fun to do!! The other part of Embroidery Emporium is historical embroidery. I have recently started to become more and more involved with historical re-enactment, and spend a lot of time making recreations of historical embroidery, such as black work as part of various different costumes.


Q. What made you get into crafting and embroidery?

Hmm I've always loved making things and sewing is something that I enjoy doing. I've always hated hunting around the shops for the right card or gifts for people so started making more and more things myself. It's a great feeling when you give someone a card or present that has been totally handmade and seeing how much they love and appreciate what you have given them.


Q. What are your favourite things to embroider?

Hehe all of it!! I love making the cards. Most of them are quite quick and easy to make, and I get to do so many fabulous little designs which I know the person receiving will love! I love making the larger cross stitch gifts as well. I especially like working with the designs that are all a single block colour. So simple yet so effective. Blackwork is another favourite. Probably the most time consuming and tricky of the bunch as it involves so much fine detail, but seeing the end result is just amazing. And the fact that the blackwork is then worn by others as part of their historical costumes is just great to see :) I love all of it really!!!


Q. What are your most popular items?

Cards. Definitely the cards. I never seem to stop making them, and always have several on the go all the time.


Q. Where can people purchase your crafts?

Currently only via my facebook page - Embroidery Emporium Sewing. But I am working on a website at the moment as well, which will hopefully be up and running soon :)


Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I think I'd have to say my main inspiration for embroidery would have to be the paintings of Holbein. It amazes me that someone can paint with that much detail in their work, that even 400 years later people can still recreate Tudor embroidery from his paintings. Amazing stuff.
Also, I'd never really thought about putting my creations on the net before and trying to sell them, until I saw some of the amazing crafty ladies on facebook setting up shops, and it really inspired me to put the things I make out there with them :)


Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

Ah, um hopefully selling lots of things on my own website and making people happy with the things I create them :). I'd love to get a stall up and running and travel round craft fairs selling my items as well as that would just be brilliant! Ideally a shop full of my handmade goodies would just be fantastic :)


I can be found on facebook here -

http://www.facebook.com/embroideryemporium

The Lipstattoo Halloween Giveaway!

The lovely Lipstattoo is holding her 3rd Halloween giveaway!

After her huge popularity with her amazing hand made Human Centipede necklace she is kindly spreading her success with other artists and businesses.
So far over 30 aritst and businesses have donated Halloween themed goodies and prizes to this giveaway!

The list of items, links and pictures will then go live on http://lipstattoo.horror-extreme.com/ at the end of September and a winner will be drawn just before Halloween at random.

Interview - Lily's Emporium

Interview with Lily of Lily's Emporium!

Q. Tell us a little about you and Lily's Emporium

I myself am Lily, a girl that doesn't take anything seriously! I established Lily's Emporium in January 2010 when I finally plucked up the courage to spread my work across the web. I make anything! Jewellery, hats, cuffs, pillows, paintings, cosplay costumes and accessories... people ask me to make stuff and I try to make it for them!

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I'm based in Glasgow, Scotland, UK. I'm a city girl!

Q. What made you start crafting and making jewellery?

I've been doing it for as long as I can remember. When I was really young I'd rip up my Barbie's old clothes then sew parts together and make them new outfits. I only recently started making jewellery this year, but I've been sewing and knitting since as far back as I can remember. I love it, it's something I can get lost in and just forget about the world for a while.

Q. What are your favourite pieces to make?

I love making jewellery that I've always wanted to see! I can remember searching everywhere for a Pokemon necklace and when I started the Emporium I was like, "you know what, I'll make it for myself!!". Necklaces are my favourite items to make, although I love making new rings and hats too!

Q. What are your most popular items on your website?

My pikachu hats! They're cheap, good quality and are SO comfortable, I've just sold my last one again; this is the third batch of them! Another thing I've always wanted yet never found one I liked until I made it!

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I take inspiration from everything, mostly things I loved during my childhood. I get epiphanies when I'm talking to people and I'll say, "hold on, I just had a great idea...". Even whilst writing this I just had an amazing idea for a set of necklaces! I'm a total geek so I get inspiration from all the geeky little things I like. My main inspirations are my two passions in life: science and animals! I love the Japanese pop culture too, a lot of stuff inspired by these things are coming soon!

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

I'd like to be a bit more established in the crafting industry. As much as I love it, I never want it to be a full time job, it would take all the fun out of it. I want to be a scientist, but I'd never give up crafting for the world! It earns me some extra money during the summer and keeps me occupied when I'm bored! I love what my little hobby has become and I can't wait for it to grow, I want people to adore my jewellery and anticipate new creations from me. My greatest ambition for Lily's Emporium would be to have cute little high street boutiques stocking my jewellery or maybe even a shop of my own, but a girl can dream for the time being right?

You can find Lily's Emporium at...
Myspace - www.myspace.com/LilysEmporium
Etsy - www.lilysemporium.etsy.com
Blog - www.lilysemporiumofficial.blogspot.com
Bebo - www.bebo.com/LilysEmporium
Twitter - www.twitter.com/Lily_Lestrange

Interview -Cinder's Creations

Dotted with Hearts interviewed Cinder's Creations!

Q. Tell us a little about you and Cinder's Creations

I'm a 20 year old female from a small town who is absolutely unhappy with where my life is. I started creating jewelry out of boredom and realized that I actually really liked making it and that some of it was super cute. The stuff started to build up around my house, I brought some to work and people started buying the necklaces I was making. I then decided, hey why not start building this as an online business and I realized that maybe I would like to do this in the future. Cinder's Creations was just the outcome of that.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I am based in a small boring town in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Q. What made you start crafting?

Boredom to be honest, I've always been artsy fartsy, but in such a small town there is nothing to do so I started crafting when found the other artsy things I did weren't for me.

Q. What are your favourite pieces to make?

I like making necklaces, especially colorful ones. Rainbows make my heart happy.

Q. What are your most popular items?

Butterfly necklaces seem to be the favorite.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I don't really have an inspiration, to be totally honest it's out of sheer boredom that I decided to start making jewelry.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

I'm not really sure where I would like to see myself tomorrow. To answer that question is impossible for me. I would like to try making soap sometime, that would be cool.

You can find Cinder's Creations at...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Port-Hawkesbury-NS/Cinders-Creations/115148571867545?ref=ts&__a=9&ajaxpipe=1
Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/omgitsniki

Interview - Temporary:Secretary

Dotted with Hearts got to interview Temporary:Secretary!

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and Temporary:Secretary -

Temporary:Secretary (http://www.temporary-secretary.com/) started in early 2008. We have grown a lot as a brand since then. I began making things for friends and family. Then I sold a few pieces on eBay. I notched up a website by myself and decide to create a brand that would offer something special without the designer price tag. It is affordable yet exclusive. We produce things in small quantities, therefore, a slim chance that you will see someone else wearing the same jewellery. We want to make people feel like they own something special and unique, but also fashionable and wearable. We offer a huge range of styles, so there is something for everyone. The difference between shopping at Temporary:Secretary and the average high street is the experience. With every parcel we send out, we guarantee that the person that receives it will feel like it's Christmas! We adore our customers, every single one of them. Everything is gift wrapped; it is the personal touches that you don't get with high street.



Q. Where in the world are you based?

Temporary:Secretary started in Newcastle. That is where I went to uni at. I loved it. But at the moment, I am back in a little town in the north that I call home. It has a castle and a river, lots of charity shops and lots of cobbles! (Which is almost impossible to walk on if you're wearing heels!) An interesting fact for you is that Lewis Caroll, the author of Alice in Wonderland, attended school here in Richmond in the 1840's. The school building is still used. It's very Gothic and the playground is the shape of a coffin. Very bizarre.


Q. What was it that made you start producing jewellery?

Temporary:Secretary was created shortly after I completed an internship at a fashion and accessories company. I studied Fashion Marketing at University and had always thought that once I graduated, I would try to get a job with a big snazzy fashion brand. I also studied fashion at college so for the total of six year, I did a lot of designing, pattern cutting, illustrating, styling, sewing - some examples of my work are on the blog. I love fashion in every way and I wouldn't have had it any other way! So anyway, I had a few work placements and it made me take my head out of the clouds to realise what I could learn about myself and what was really right for me. Because I had started the business during university, I didn't take it seriously - It didn't really start out as a jewellery brand, I didn't find a direction to go in to at first. I played around with garments and making skirts, sourcing vintage items. It was extra pocket money for doing something I love. It has been the best job ever, and although I did a lot of pondering after my time at uni had finished, I am glad to find my feet and decided to carry on doing this after graduation. 2010 has been an exciting year for Temporary:Secretary, let's just hope it carries on getting better and better!



Q. What are your favourite pieces to make?

There are a few but my favourite product to make is the Keep Calm and Carry On pendants, they come in 6 different colours and they look great when it all comes together as a finished product. Similarly, the doll face necklaces are fun to make. I love name necklaces and I've got 4 of them! But I thought "what about face necklaces! That could work!". There are 24 doll faces to choose from so hopefully, everyone can find one that looks like them. Another fun product to make is the cupcake charm bracelets. My favourite is the gold - it makes the cute cupcake charms stand out so much more than the silver.


Q. What are your most popular items?

It is definitely the Alice in Wonderland and Wizard of Oz products. One of our very first products launched on the website was Welcome to Wonderland necklace, it is one of our best sellers, along with our Alice bracelets which have been featured in Heat and Look magazine. The Wizard of Oz necklaces are popular too, it is the little ruby slippers that I love making. They are originally silver but i glitter them to give it that classic Wizard Of Oz magical sparkle! The glitter goes absolutely everywhere and I see red glitter about for weeks! But it's definitely worth it.



Q. Do you have any new projects coming up?

Since end of June, I have been working on the autumn and Christmas range. Lots of cute and quirky jewellery coming up! The first new batch from the latest range will be launched in the first week of September.


Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I get inspiration from everything. Everything and everyone around is inspires me. I sometimes think that I should settle on one style but I am open minded to everything - which kind of explains why the jewellery on my website ranges from loud, colourful kitsch to subtle, vintage style pieces.


Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

Although I have answered this question so many times, this is always a tricky one, I am the most indecisive character when it comes to thinking ahead. If I was asked what I want to do in the next 5 minutes, I would quickly decide and then have no time to change it. But knowing that I've got 5 years to change my mind, I would list a bunch of things, change my mind, go round in circles (OK, maybe go round in 10 circles!) and then possible end up with a plan. Right now, my thoughts for the next 5 years are to build and develop Temporary:Secretary as a strong brand, and hope to expand it. It would be also be awesome if I ended up in London in 5 years time, too.

www.temporary-secretary.com

www.twitter.com/tempsec

www.facebook.com/tempsec

http://temporary-secretary.blogspot.com/

Interview - Uma Jewellery

Dotted with Hearts Interview with 'elegantly funky'

Uma Jewellery

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and Uma Jewellery

I'm third culture gal, Thai by blood with a mix of this and that. I lived in Chicago, Melbourne, now Bangkok, and I'm sure there will be more cities in the future! ;) My Jewelry line is named after my mom 'Uma.' We design the pieces together, so its a mother daughter collaboration. My mothers style is more elegant, where mine is more funky. therefore I like describe Uma Jewelry as 'Elegantly Funky' Our pieces are unique, bold, and give a statement. We want to make ladies of all ages feel more beautiful and confident with our pieces. It gives off a lot of energy!


Q. Where in the world are you based?

Right now I'm based in Bangkok, Thailand! I plan on going to Canada or back to Australia in the next year or two!

Q. What made you get into making jewellery?

My mother originally was a full time jeweler. She stopped after she got sick. Now that shes all better, i thought why not start design and making pieces with her again. Art has always been in my heart, and I love to make pretty shinny things! Ladies love that!

Q. What are your favourite pieces to make? What materials do you most like to use?

i love making necklaces! They are more striking then earrings or bracelets. I love to use colorful stones. I've now discovered crystals which I also love!

Q. What are your most popular items?

My necklace called the 'twist' is the most popular selling one now!

Q. Do you wear the jewelery/ accessories yourself?

Definitely! Gotta promote promote! Plus it always funks up an outfit!

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

People, places, food, anything really!


Q. Do you have any new projects coming up?

Yep, we will be teaching Jewelry making in Bangkok soon, so I'm very excited bout that!

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

I successful Jeweler and Photographer. Also I'm gonna get my yoga teaching certificate and teach Yoga as well!


Uma Jewelry Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DianePIroon

Photography shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/umaart

My photography: www.dianepiroon.wordpress.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/EtsyDiane

Interview - Lucky Penny Creations

Dotted with Hearts interviewed Stacey of Lucky Penny Creations

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and Lucky Penny Creations

Hi I am Stacey I am 24 years old And I run Lucky Penny Creations with my best friend Katie.


Q. Where in the world are you based?

We are based in Milton Keynes land of the concrete cows.


Q. What made start making jewellery?

I started making jewellery for myself as a hobby, then it got to the stage that I had far too much jewellery to wear myself so my best friend and I decided to go into business together.



Q. What are your favourite pieces to make?

Our favourite pieces to make have to be the pieces made out of fimo clay (makes me feel like a child again)



Q. Do you have any new projects coming up?

I am currently learning how to build websites so that I can build us a site (it may take awhile).



Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

We don't have any particular inspiration, but we do like to theme some of our pieces for example we have a collection of 'Alice in wonderland jewellery'. Keep your eye out for more themed jewellery coming soon.


Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

In 5 years time hopefully I would of finished building our website. I would like to be running Lucky Penny Creations full time instead of along side a full time job.

You can find Lucky Penny Creations on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Lucky-Penny-Creations/112585515424813?ref=ts

Interview - VelvetVolcano

Dotted with Hearts got to interview new jewellery designer - VelvetVolcano

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and VelvetVolcano

My names Tamsyn (also known as Velvet), I'm 20 years old and have been running VelvetVolcano since November 2009.
I make crystal encrusted jewellery and accessories.


Q. Where in the world are you based?

Cornwall, U.K


Q. What made you get into crafting?

It's in my blood, all the women in my family are all crafty in their own ways - ranging from crochet / knitting, drawing and painting to graphic design.

I've been creating since I was little and I've always been artistic, being brought up in a creative environment is definitely a big part of that.



Q. What are your favourite pieces to make? What materials do you most like to use?

I love making commissions and custom orders for my customers, its so personal and I always love a challenge :).

Creating something unique for someone is really nice, especially as there is so much mass-production in the fashion world.


Q. What are your most popular items?

The Super Mario Shrooms, Cherry Necklaces and the 'Tied In a Bow' necklaces.



Q. Do you wear the jewelery/ accessories yourself?

Absolutely!

My products are definitely all my style and I always wear them out, I wouldn't ever sell a product I wouldn't be happy to wear myself. :)



Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I'm very inspired by the human body, the inner workings and the outer 'coating' as such.

I started out making anatomical pendants which then progressed into exploring how people 'accessorise' themselves, from body modification to good old personal style.

I'm very inspired by Rockabilly/Psychobilly and Punk styles too.



Q. Do you have any new projects coming up?

I'm hoping to branch out a lot with VV, there's a lot of exciting stuff in the pipeline :).



Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

I hope that my products will make it into some shops, that I will have stalls frequently and that VV will be bigger and better :).


Official Facebook Page:
Http://www.facebook.com/velvetvolcano.jewellery

Facebook Fan Page:
http://www.facebook.com/velvetvolcano

Blog:
http://velvetvolcano.blogspot.com

Interview- C-Unique

Dotted with Hearts gave an interview to C-unique!

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself and C-Unique

A. Well I've always loved making things and watching my mum sew as a child. Then when I was 15 and going through a slightly Gothic phase, I decide I wanted a long black skirt for school to wear with my Docs, but I couldn't find one in any shops. So, I went to the local fabric shop, bought some fabric and went home and made one. After that I was hooked, I made weird and random things for my friends so that we looked different to everyone else. After what seemed like years of making clothing for myself and close friends, interest started to grow and I started to make clothes on a more professional level. As time has gone by, I am now very busy with a large range of ladies clothing and accessories, including hand bags and jewellery.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

A. I am based in Worcester, England.

Q. What made you get into crafting/ clothes making?

A. I've grown up making anything and everything! It's so satisfying to see the end result of something you've worked hard on. I remember being about 8 years old and selling friendship bracelets I had made, in the playground.

Q. What are your favourite pieces to make? What materials do you most like to use?

A. I'd say hand bags are my favourite things to make, although I always want to keep them all! I like to work with cotton the most, it's easy to use and gives a good structured end result to my clothing.

Q. What are your most popular items?

A. My most popular items are the 'Marilyn' and the 'Gypsy' tops. The 'Gypsy' top suits any shape or size and comes in many different colours and fabrics!

Q. Do you wear the jewelery/ clothing yourself?

A. Absolutely! Being tall and slim, I find it hard to get alternative clothes to fit. I started out making stuff just for myself, It never occurred to me that the items I had made to satisfy my tastes would prove so popular with friends and people I have never met! It always makes me feel good inside when a stranger compliments me on something I'm wearing that I've made.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

A. My inspiration can come from really random everyday things, but I'd probably say that music is my biggest inspiration. Different genres produce different outcomes for my designs. The 1950's and tattoo culture plays a huge part in my most recent ranges, I love combining the two and getting a 50's look with an edge.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

A. I'd like my creations to be available in more shops, not just in the UK, but worldwide. It's a slow process, but I'm sure I'll get there.

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/c-unique

www.facebook.com/c.uniqueclothing

www.c-unique.co.uk

New items from Vicki Death

New items from horror/tattoo artist Vicki Death!

Check out the Vicki Death etsy store for these items & more!

http://www.vickideath.etsy.com/