Craft Love Blog | by SoCoDivka Designs

Craft Love Blog is Moving!

2011-10-19T14:44:00.000-05:00

I decided to move this blog over to Wordpress on my own site on my own server...after converting my website from Flash to Wordpress to help with SEO.

I do hope you'll follow me over!
Thanks so much for reading over the years!

xo
Shanna

A Piece for Charity,a SALE, & New Designs!

2011-10-07T20:13:00.001-05:00

This one-of-a-kind necklace made from a vintage brooch will be up for auction at the OctoTea 16 event, to benefit Paul Kirby Emergency fund at AIDS Services of Austin!

Check it out in this treasury, also:

Here are some other lovelies that are newly listed in my shop, below. Remember everything--even clearance items--is 10% off in my shop through 10/15 with the code "Fall2011"!

Favorite Things: Jean Jean Vintage

2011-09-14T21:58:00.000-05:00

I found a new shop today I adore--Jean Jean Vintage. It's filled with a perfect section of the most lovely vintage items. It looks like my dream jewelry box!

Go visit Jean Jean Vintage!

Summertime | The August Break

2011-08-30T13:09:00.002-05:00

We took a quick trip down to Port Aransas on the Texas coast a couple weekends ago. I took along my Holga camera.

Google Places & Method Hair presents ...East Side Cycle Soiree

2011-08-22T11:06:00.003-05:00

I will be at this Austin Fashion Week event this Wednesday 8/24 with my jewelry for sale and information on my other business, Nostalgia Film. I really am a huge fan of Method Hair, and this event sounds like it will be a lot of fun--free drinks, food, and a brass band!

Join us for Austin Fashion Week in celebration of artists, music, and style - benefitting the Austin Cyclists Association. Complimentary libations by Treaty Oak Distilling Co. Free food from Freebirds World Burrito. Music by DJ Lord Pyro and Best Best Best Friends Band! The event will feature Green Goat Designs - Method Hair - Niz Graphics - John Castro from Kastro Kills - Kucoon - and Sandra Antoun With Kitsch Trading Co.. Be there!

Studio Clearance Sale!

2011-08-17T17:33:00.001-05:00

Taking a break from the August Break to let you know about a big sale!

I recently got back some items from the shop I sell my jewelry at and am also trying to clear out some space in my studio, so I decided to offer select jewelry items at $3 to $5 off in my shop!

Check out what's on sale:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79778843/sale-was-25-now-22-vintage-brass-locket

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79777231/sale-was-25-now-22-art-deco-brass-floral

http://www.etsy.com/listing/52575246/sale-was-30-now-25-vintage-bird-and

http://www.etsy.com/listing/35554064/sale-was-25-now-20-purple-polkadot

http://www.etsy.com/listing/32122490/sale-was-15-now-10-flower-bud-earrings

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62841611/sale-was-25-now-22-vintage-floral-black

http://www.etsy.com/listing/35556332/sale-was-25-now-20-bold-paisley-red

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79776027/sale-was-30-now-25-vintage-bird-and

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79776804/sale-was-30-now-25-vintage-charm-and

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79779578/sale-was-30-now-25-vintage-porcelain

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79780399/sale-was-25-now-22-sweet-flower-earrings

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79780599/sale-was-25-now-22-sweet-silver-bow

http://www.etsy.com/listing/79781390/sale-was-25-now-20-sweet-vintage


http://www.etsy.com/listing/79781522/sale-was-15-now-10-mid-century-modern

Texas Hill Country | The August Break

2011-08-09T11:38:00.002-05:00

We recently got to spend a weekend with friends out at the cabins where we got married on the San Gabriel River in Liberty Hill, Texas. I had just found a vintage Diana camera (from the '60s probably) on eBay, and I took it along to capture some images. There is still a little water in poor drought-stricken Texas as you can see... just a little bit.

Puppy Love | The August Break

2011-08-04T13:20:00.000-05:00

I'm using today's August Break photo post to share our sweet rescue pups' faces with you, and to tell the Central Texans and Austinites among you how to find your own new furry friend this hot August weekend!

This Friday, Austin Humane Society is trying to beat the heat by adopting out the first 107 animals for FREE! Dogs, cats, kittens -- all FREE as part of their 107 Degrees of Love Event from 12pm - 7pm! Don't miss out!
Free adoptions at Austin Pets Alive! on Saturday!
Free adoptions at Humane Society of Williamson County on Saturday, too!

Holga Airstream | The August Break

2011-08-03T16:20:00.000-05:00

Etsy Treasuries

2011-07-27T13:03:00.000-05:00

Here are a etsy few treasuries from the last few months that my jewelry and my Custom Boutonnieres (and my husband!) appeared in. The last one, I made for featuring Etsy Austin Craft Riot artists, but didn't get a chance to share at the time. Enjoy!

Rich, Red and a little Rustic

Wedding on the brain

Austin Mix Tape

Pinterest & DIY

2011-07-27T12:55:00.000-05:00

Are any of you as obsessed with Pinterest as I am?

I am loving the fact, I can save DIY tutorials and inspiration for later, and it's perfect for me since I am a very visually minded person. I've started inspiration boards for DIY & crafts, for inspiration for custom wedding party jewelry designs, inspired weddings for my Nostalgia Film blog, photography, things I covet, other random design & inspiration, and more (food, travel, etc.). Here are some of my favorite DIY projects I am saving for a rainy day (though it may be a while since there's a major drought in Texas!):

Also, unrelated, The Frisky (a site I love and freelanced for) is having Get a Hobby Week and asking: Readers, Tell Us About Your Hobbies!

What's New at SoCoDivka Designs

2011-07-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

This Saturday 7/9

I will be donating a $40 gift certificate to my etsy shop at The Lonely Ladies' Planned Parenthood Benefit. Come out for a chance to win that or a ton of other raffle items including things from: End of an Ear, Eastside Yoga, Cinema East, Eastside Cafe, Method Hair, Alamo Drafthouse, East Side Show Room, and a ton more! Featruring The Lonely Ladies DJs, Yellow Fever, Rebecca Havemeyer, Agent Ribbons, and a huge vintage trunk show featuring my friend Donna Barton of Slinky Whistle Bait and more!

Starts at 7pm & it's free!

New Designs

I will be working on a slew of new things this weekend for the site and for Lovely Austin. If you're local, stop by Lovely Austin: they have many pairs of my rose stud earrings for just $10 and new brass bobby pin sets for just $12. Both make great gifts!

I also have some special new items up in the shop that are particularly dear to me--a one-of-a-kind necklace made with an estate brooch that would be perfect for a bridal look, and a very long locket, that has the perfect combination of brass components and pearls...

etsy.com

Other News

I recently participated in a wedding show for my other business with my husband, Nostalgia Film. I went about preparing for a wedding show, much like a craft show and sewed a custom table runner and three sets of bunting to match our business colors, which inspired me to add custom bunting back to my etsy shop!

My handsome husband

So, drop me a line below, and let me know what's new? What have you been making? What events are you going to?

Happy weekend,

Shanna
xo

Lovely DIY & Giveaway Coming Soon!

2011-05-14T13:10:00.002-05:00

I am loving the chalkboard pendant DIY posted over at Oh Hello Friend yesterday! I am going to be trying to make some of these soon!

Oh Hello Friend DIY

Also, SoCoDivka Designs will be doing a necklace giveaway when we hit 300 "likes," and we are close! So, join me there, please!

SoCoDivka Designs

Promote Your Page Too

Have a lovely weekend!
xo
Shanna

Catching up!

2011-04-14T21:17:00.001-05:00

Nostalgia Film; photo by Heather Curiel

Wow, it's been almost a month since I've written. It's been a busy month since SXSW! My husband and I launched Nostalgia Film, which is vintage-style Super 8 film & HD cinematography. While we mainly are focusing on weddings, we can do family films, engagements, music videos, commercials, or anything else you can imagine, so please tell your friends, especially the engaged ones!

Hollywood!

I am blogging for Nostalgia Film, too, so you can read more on the blog, or keep up with us on Facebook or Twitter.

We spent a week in L.A. in late March in a Super 8 filmmaking workshop, which was awesome and enlightening (despite being sick all the while)!

So the trip and taxes, new business paperwork, and a trip to Granbury last weekend to see family, hang out by the lake, and wish my uncle a happy 70th birthday have all been what I have been up to lately.

Granbury, Texas

As far as SoCoDivka Designs goes, I have been focusing on custom orders--working on one now for an August bride--and thinking up new ideas. What would you like to see more of in the shop?

Also, if you haven't "liked" my Facebook page for SoCoDivka Designs, please do! I will do a giveaway when we reach 300 fans! I haven't decided what it will be yet... but I have some ideas!

So... what about you? What's new in your world?

Etsy in Austin Awesomeness!

2011-03-16T22:46:00.000-05:00

The event the Etsy Austin Street Team helped with last weekend during SXSW Interactive has been featured on CNN and Fast Company!

Photo by Anna Gonzalez, CNN.com

Living the handmade dream on and offline, CNN.com

Etsy's Handmade Hack-a-Thon Is the Perfect Antidote to SXSW Tech-Talk Overload, FastCompany.com

Lovely Art, Fashion & Live Music!

2011-03-10T12:18:00.000-06:00

Have you had enough SXSW event invites yet? Surely; I don't even know how to keep them all straight. But I do love the lovely gals at Lovely Austin, so these are stops worth making. And, um, Paula's Texas Orange and Lemon liqueur, ya'll!

Spring is in the air which in Austin means MUSIC! Join Lovely for three days of bands, art, and fashion (and naturally booze! sponsored by Paula's Texas Orange and Blingg Apparel). Check out our calendar of events below.

Thursday, March 17th
Click to RSVP

4-8 Blingg Apparel T-shirt Launch featuring the artwork of Matthew Bonifacio Rodriguez
6-8 Allen Daniell Band

Friday, March 18th
Click here to RSVP

4-6 Popup

Saturday, March 19th
Click here to RSVP

2-4 Secret Trains
5-7 Whiskey Shivers

Etsy in Austin!

2011-03-10T11:44:00.000-06:00

Details as promised! I will be manning the booth 4-6pm Sunday, and will probably be there a good chunk of the weekend for events. Hit me up before then if you want an Etsy bandanna or a Etsy Austin sticker!

----

Etsy is headed to SXSW and we'd love to see you there! Join us at Venue 222 in the heart of downtown Austin for two full days and nights of DIY + Handmade + Music goodness. Stop by and get your hands dirty with upcycling tees into bags, painting shot glasses, screenprinting, handmade music, buttons, DJs, bands and more!

Stay after-hours as we transform our craft labs into a rocking lounge with live music from Neighbors, The Black Angels, Quintron & Miss Pussycat, DJ Rana June (the iPad DJ)! Plus, a DIY fashion show of Etsy and BurdaStyle members from across the USA.

Excited? So are we. Tweet us #EtsyAustin

Here's the line-up:

----

SATURDAY, MARCH 12
• Noon-4pm: Crafting, screenprinting, mingling, and more.
• 4-6pm: Code as Craft: Moving Fast at Scale, a mini-conference with the Etsy engineering team (http://etsy.me/foInRq)
• 6-8PM: Online/Offline: A Meetup for Social Media + Community Managers, hosted by Etsy, Meetup.com, Google, and #CMMeetup (RSVP here: http://etsy.me/SXSWmeetup).
• 8PM-close: Live performances by Neighbors (http://neighborsmusic.com/) and the Black Angels (http://theblackangels.com/).

SUNDAY, MARCH 13
• Noon-1pm: Stop by for our Etsy-approved hangover kits and come chat with the Etsy team.
• 1-4pm: Handmade Music Craft Session & live performance.
• 5pm: People Powered Communities Panel with Nora Abousteit (co-Founder BurdaStyle), Mr. Bob Nanna (Threadless), Micki Krimmel (Neighborgoods.net), Charles Adler (Kickstarter) and Vanessa Bertozzi (Director of Community and Education, Etsy).
• 7pm: Live performance by Quintron and Ms. Pussycat (http://www.quintronandmisspussycat.com/).
• 9pm: BurdaStyle DIY Fashion Show (http://www.burdastyle.com/blog/meet-the-designers-burdastyle-diy-fashion-show).
• 10pm-close: Live performance by DJ Rana June (http://www.destroythesilence.com/).

----

All our Austin events are free and open to the public. 21+ where required. Stop by anytime to chat with our Etsy team since we'd love to meet you. Our Etsy Austin street team (http://etsyaustin.blogspot.com/) will also be helping us hit as much ground as we can cover. To follow along, tweet us using the hashtag #EtsyAustin. Plus, share your tips, recommendations and photos below! We can't wait to see you in Austin!

New Designs and a SXSW Event!

2011-03-09T14:12:00.000-06:00

Please join Etsy in Austin! and check out designs from the Etsy Austin street team (including mine!) at the Wall of Wow! I will post some more details soon!

Collage Necklace

Red Swarovski Dangle Earrings in Brass

Pink Jade Sugar Skull Earrings

Colorful Magenta Estate Dangle Earrings in Brass

Smoky Swarkovski Dangle Earrings in Brass

Valentine's Trunk Show!

2011-02-26T20:02:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all who came out to the Lovely Austin Trunk Show on February 12th. It was a lot of fun! Stay tuned for the next event! I have a lot of pieces there right now, so check it out of you want something new to add to your wardrobe!

Right now, I am busy working on custom work and new designs. I got a lot of fun, vintage jewelry at estate sales last weekend; I can't wait to give new life to some of the pieces!

New banner!

That's me! I forgot to take photos 'til the very end, so I look like I am about to run out the door!

My dear friend Lesley

You can see some Black & Blue Letterpress simple, sweet "I Love You" cards

Favorite Things: Matou en Peluche

2011-01-26T16:24:00.002-06:00

Matou en Peluche (a.k.a. Samantha Battersby) is an illustrator of such lovely drawings and prints. I want so many of them. Her Art Deco ladies, animals, and mermaids are so charming! Which would you choose?


Mermaid Jemima takes Harry for a walk

Bird art - The Blue Bird of Happiness

Art Deco Georgette

Jemima leads the Crustacean Calisthenics class

An appreciative audience

Bird art - TWO BLUE BIRDS of happiness

Dorothy

Mermaid art - Crustacean cafe

Art Deco Millie

Valentine's DIY

2011-01-21T15:53:00.000-06:00

There's a great post today over at oh, hello friend: you are loved that's full of Valentine's DIY projects: diy with Brittni. This adorable heart makes me want to learn to crochet!

Valentine's Day :: Crocheted hearts tutorial

Plus Martha Stewart's site has a big section on "How to Charm Your Valentine." Check out the Heart-Shaped Soap

and Crayon Hearts projects.

A few other of Martha's craft ideas I love:

Good Thing: Heart-Felted Scarf

Valentine Flowers


Knot Bracelet

And this one has to be my favorite... I have always wanted to learn how to do this... Luckily it has a video, so maybe there is hope for me!

Papercut Hearts

If you love craft tutorials, also check out Totally Tutorials, which I just discovered. I love this Valentine Bath Salts tutorial from Shrimp Salad Circus.

how to-sday . valentine bath salts

And I totally want to make these... Yum.

strawberry pink champagne cupcake recipe

And last but not least, over at Craft Gossip, check out Nine Valentine's craft tutorials.

All these crafts make me think of the childlike joy that comes with making Valentines at Valentine's Day.
What do you think? Do you want to try any of these or any other crafts for your loved ones?

Favorite Things: Whimsical Handmade Jewelry by Sea of Bees

2011-01-20T11:16:00.000-06:00

Inspired by rustic woodlands, nature, and wild animals, Sea of Bees offers one-of-a-kind whimsical handmade treasures for vibrant individuals who desire unique, handcrafted jewelry that reflects their own amazing personal style.


Woodland Fantasy Whimsical Mounted Doe Brooch Pin

Rabbit Key Necklace


Woodland Fantasy Whimsical Bird Head Ring ooak

Woodland Fantasy Whimsical Mounted Doe Necklace

Deer Ring Woodland Fantasy Whimsical Huge Deer Antler Silver

Super awesome free sites to advertise and promote your handmade crafts

2011-01-11T16:12:00.000-06:00

This is a great list over at the Unanimous Crafters site. Can't wait 'til I have time to dig into it!

Super awesome free sites to advertise and promote your handmade crafts | List of helpful resources curated by Unanimous Crafters

Embroidery Wednesday!

2011-01-05T13:15:00.001-06:00

I just had to snatch these up from etsy seller teasemade--so cute! And they're my favorite colors, so how could I resist?

http://www.etsy.com/shop/teasemade

Love these, too!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/55069746/bicycle-ring

http://www.etsy.com/listing/57998924/petal-face-ring-blue

And from the seller, ThreeRedApples, check out this awesome find! I need this for my wall, badly...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62655124/gypsies-at-heart-textile-wall-art

Also, I can totally relate to this one:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62788324/i-love-my-bed-wall-art-in-purple

Last Minute FREE DIY X-Mas Mix Tape

2010-12-23T10:19:00.001-06:00

I have recently fallen in love with the blog Happiness Is... Her daily doses of cute and covet-worthy items are always a bright spot in my inbox. Yesterday, she featured this great freebie for any last minute Christmas mix CDs you're making! Perfect along with a bottle of wine or homemade cookies for a Christmas party host or hostess or anyone road-tripping this holiday!

What's your favorite Christmas tune for the perfect holiday mix tape? Let me know in the comments!

I've had "Last Christmas" by Wham in my head all week! (I also hear the Glee version is great!) I'm also loving Electronic Santa from Blazer Force. Did you know you can download a whole FREE indie Christmas mix, The Christmas Gig, on Target's website?

Best Coast and Wavves

Coconut Records, a solo project by Jason Schwartzman (swoon)

Blazer Force

End of Year SALE!

2010-12-22T14:13:00.001-06:00

I'm offering 20% off in my shop until the new year (on non-custom items)! Use coupon code "newyear20" at checkout. I only have a few necklaces in the shop now, but I will be adding new items in the next two weeks as I get them photographed and listed from my remaining inventory, so please check back!

I also took a lot of my latest designs to Lovely Austin last weekend, so you can check my new work out there, too, if you're in the Austin area! They have so much cute stuff there right now--I walked out with a funky sweater top and some cute earrings made from recycled glass and feathers!

Happy Holidays!

xoxo

SoCoDivka Designs

Pear & Peacock: DIY

2010-12-22T14:00:00.000-06:00

I just discovered this site today, after coming across her cute jewelry.
There are a lot of fun DIY tutorials, most for the holidays. My favorite has to be the DIY: Sequin Ornaments.
They remind me so much of ornaments my parents had from the '70s! Yay, handmade nostalgia!

Pear & Peacock: DIY

Free Holidays DIY Project E-Book

2010-12-17T11:38:00.000-06:00

Eight Holiday Tutorials and DIY Projects | papernstitch

Holiday Crafts

2010-12-10T11:53:00.004-06:00

Two weeks to Christmas!? That's crazy. Where did 2010 go? While we've barely managed to get our tree and lights up, I still hope to make a couple Christmas homemade crafts.

At the top of my list, these gift tags. We made chocolate orange homebrew beer (yum!!) for gifting this year. Instead of going the label route we did for our wedding brew, I want to make these gift tags, and tie them to the bottles with baking twine!

Holiday Freebie: Typographic Gift Tags » Eat Drink Chic

I always love bunting to cheer up a space -

DIY: winter fun bunting {download}

I also love these felt crafts, found via Oh, Hello, Friend

DIY: felt shingle tree

DecoratingHomemade for the Holidays: Easy Felt Crafts

What holiday crafts are you making this year?

Wedding DIY

2010-12-06T16:43:00.001-06:00

Here are some of the DIY projects we took on for our recet wedding. I got photographer photos back a few weeks ago and haven't had the chance to share yet. There are even more projects we did than are shown here, regrettably, I didn't get photos of them all!

I custom made the ringbearer pillow with this fantastic papel picado print I found at Vista Latina. The rings attached for show I'd even made in silversmithing class! I also made the boutonnieres, as you can see here, for all of the groomsmen, our ringbearer, and the guy of honor on my side. The coordinating papel picado/Dia de Los Muertos ties are from Cyberoptix.

I also made the flower girl's basket (and hair clip, not pictured here).

With the help of lady pals the morning of the wedding, I made this bouquet. I couldn't be happier with how it turned out! We trimmed the flower budget by buying in bulk from Costco online. Which brings us to our centerpieces...

We hand painted mason jars with aqua vitreous paint, then baked them, and added coordinating ribbons.Then just set a colorful, European-style pre-made bouquet into each one.

You can sort of see in the background the card box I made. I found the base at Hobby Lobby and painted it a coordinating aqua. I handlettered "Cards" and added the same papel picado print as above. Also on top...

...were little skulls I handmade from clay. They kind of look a bit like us...

Above are some signs and a chalkboard the groom made for the wedding!

Maybe one day soon I can create some tutorials!

SoCoDivka Designs and Black & Blue Letterpress >> 78704 Market TONIGHT

2010-12-02T09:29:00.001-06:00

Cindy of Black & Blue Letterpress and I will be at the 78704 Market tonight at 1600 S Congress Ave. in Austin for First Thursday from approximately 5:30pm - 10pm or so. (Cindy will be there earlier, from about 3:30pm on...)

I have lots of new designs including sweet vintage brass lockets and more, very reasonably priced: from $8 earrings to $15 - 37 necklaces.

Cindy has a lot of fresh letterpress - cute note cards, lovely letter sets, and notepads perfect for gift giving (I bought several for stocking stuffers at E.A.S.T.).

More about Black & Blue Letterpress:

Black & Blue is a letterpress print shop that specializes in fine ephemera and custom stationary based in Austin, TX. Both Cindy St. John and Scott Pierce have backgrounds in poetry, and Scott has been a designer and letterpress printer for almost ten years with Effing Press. They like words, ink, metal, paper, art, kittens and breakfast tacos.

Come do your holiday shopping with us!

WeAre78704.com - 78704 Market

View Larger Map

Etsy Success Today

2010-11-23T17:07:00.000-06:00

In case you missed it, the Etsy Success Newsletter today had some great stuff in it. There's an excellent article on holiday craft shows chock full with tips. After reading it, I think I can make my table for December's First Thursday a lot more rocking. Here's my table from E.A.S.T. -

Also, finally what a lot of us have been waiting for: Coupon Codes! I can't wait to try it out with a code this week. I am listing a ton of new stuff this week as I get organized after E.A.S.T.

Have a great week and a wonderful Thanksgiving!

New Custom Work

2010-11-02T21:16:00.000-05:00

Since getting back from my honeymoon, I've been busy getting two custom bridal orders together!

The first was a group of four necklaces--in navy blue, black, and silver--for my dear friends Jamie and Daniel's wedding. The bridesmaids got asymmetrical necklaces with a navy blue vintage-inspired Lucite floral cabochon set in silver with silver Czech glass beads. The groomsmaiden got a black vintage Lucite rose with silver Czech glass beads.

I was so excited to get to see these on the ladies last Saturday. They looked great!

I also just finished a custom duo for a bride who's getting married in January, as gifts for the friends reading in her ceremony.

One features a vintage Lucite butterfly wing charm and the other features a Tibetan silver butterfly flower. Both feature deep grayish-plum glass pearls.

That's it for now. As always, let me know if you have any custom ideas you want to talk about. I will be out in about in a couple of weeks for the second weekend of E.A.S.T. and First Thursday in December--both with my friend Cindy of Dead Weather letterpress. I will post details here soon!

Happy Fall!

Newest Work

2010-10-20T11:14:00.000-05:00

All of my jewelry is at Lovely Austin right now, however I am getting busy for the holidays and hope to do at least one weekend of E.A.S.T. and maybe the First Thursday in December and a couple of other shows, as well as working on custom bridal orders.

Favorite Things: obscurio

2010-10-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

Obscurio was etsy's featured seller today, with good reason. I am enchanted by these bizarre, antique photographs of circus sideshow performers, everyday people of yore, and tintype portraits:

{all images from obscurio's shop}

Saved From the Fire

2010-10-18T17:08:00.000-05:00

I stumbled across this today, and I love this new concept. On Etsy, they've started a new project: Saved From the Fire. What if your house was burning down and you could only grab your one most treasured possession? Documenting it with a paragraph and a photograph, readers are contributing theirs to the flickr pool.

I guess this satisfies my voyeurism into other people's lives. I am stumped trying to think of my one object... But I will get back to you soon...

What would be the one thing that you save?

I am back! Just Married!

2010-10-18T16:57:00.001-05:00

I am back in Austin! The wedding was an amazing whirlwind, that was so much fun. My amazing friends and family helped up pull the whole thing off, decorating and helping and being awesome every time I turned around.

It was such a wonderful day--and whole wedding weekend--that flew by in a heartbeat!

I have lots to share about the wedding and awesome honeymoon after in Maui, Hawaii, but I will save them for another day when the jet lag has finally has worn off. A couple of my favorite photos taken by my friends in the meantime:

One last post! Wedding Shoes...

2010-09-30T12:01:00.002-05:00

This post over at Modish, inspired one last post of my own.

(Plus I have so much nervous energy that I cannot do a thing with right now: I have flowers that need arranging, and decorations that need organizing, and reception clothes and honeymoon clothes that need packing, but my hands are tied 'til almost 8pm tonight and we leave in the a.m.! So in the listless meantime... why not think about shoes! OMG shoes!)

Modish posted her own adorable wedding shoes that she will wear in just five days by Poetic Licence.

I LOVE the red ones, too!

Here are mine, by Seychelles... to wear in just two!

And my reception boots for dancin' up a storm!

It's absolutely a funny coincidence that two of my favorite bloggers--Modish & Oh, Hello, Friend--and I are all getting married in the same week! The latter is having lovely guest blog posts the whole time she is away...

That's it for me for now...
Talk to you in a couple of weeks!
xo

We're getting married!

2010-09-28T15:45:00.002-05:00

In just a few short days on Saturday, October 2nd, we will be getting married before the sunset in Liberty Hill, Texas, on the banks of the San Gabriel River!

I am trying to finish up work, scurry about for last-minute preparations, and crafts, and rest up. Only me and my terrible timing... I actually came down with strep throat and a respiratory infection just days before our wedding! What a week it's been!

But today, which cheered me up immensely, our lovely photographer, Heather Curiel, sent me the tintypes I took with her a couple of weeks ago. I am so excited! In case you don't know much about tintypes, you can read more here. They are a style of primitive photography from the mid-1800s. I don't want to give away too much before the wedding, but here is a sneak peak. I'll talk to you again in a couple of weeks! All the best!

Shanna
xoxo

Tintype by Heather Curiel

Favorite Things: Lip Glosserie

2010-09-23T13:45:00.001-05:00

Lip Glosserie is based in Austin, Texas, and is is 100% natural and vegan.

If the Special Chocolate Orange lip balm I got for free in my gift bag at the opening of Discovering the Language of Photography at the Ransom Center last Friday is any indication, her lip glosses are delicious!! Many thanks to the Wondercraft, too, for the tickets to the opening!

These would make great gifts or stocking suffers as the holidays near, and they are very affordable! I can't wait to try more delectable flavors! Yum!

{Blissful Buttercream Lip Balm - Handmade}

{Spicy Gingersnap Lip Balm - Handmade}

{Decadent White Chocolate Lip Balm - Handmade}

Local Austin Beauty and Fashion Events!

2010-09-13T11:04:00.002-05:00

I know not all of my readers live in Austin, but for those who do, here are a few events coming up in the next few weeks:

Lovelypallooza - 1 Year Anniversary Kick off! September 17 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Has it really been a year since they opened their doors?? Please help kick off the weekend with free Lonestar and Live music from Whiskey Shivers. This is a kid friendly event so bring 'em if you got 'em!

Workshop - "The meaning of stones - what's right for you" September 18 · 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Winifred Adams of Designs by Winifred will teach us about optimizing body system health; energetics; and how to determine the signs of your symptoms and how to alleviate them both with gems and herbs.

Mimosas, Massages & Make-overs! September 19 · 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Wrap up the weekend with a little relaxation! What better way to spend a Sunday than with mimosas, $5 chair massage by Roy Eakins from Russ and Company Salon and make up tips from Austin Fashion Awards winner Lecia Eakins of Beauty on the Go.

Mana Culture will host a South 1st St. Fashion Show & Benefit for for Cause to Celebrate on Friday, Oct 1st 8-11pm. mEnjoy this fashionable event as you groove to the beats of Local Dj Manny, while performers dance to tribal rhythms and models strut down the runway in Austins hottest trends and styles! Tickets are $10 at the door, with all proceeds going directly to charity! Complimentary cocktails to guest over 21! The show will include S. 1st businesses: Mana Culture, Pangaea, Amelia's Retro-vogue, Lovely Boutique, Schatzelein, and Shine Salon. There will be a jungle theme, so get ready to release the inner animal in you!

Favorite Things: Specimental

2010-09-03T11:11:00.000-05:00

My inner rockhound is delighted by these pieces by a Vancouver-based artist, Specimental:

{Aqua Aura Quartz Crystal Specimen Ring}

{Pink Tourmaline Crystal in Tree Bark Sterling Silver Ring}

{Geode, Ruby, and Pyrite Sterling Silver Necklace}

{Sea Urchin Fossil in Oxidized Sterling Silver Ring}

Thankful Thursday

2010-09-02T10:15:00.000-05:00

A blog post over at Bookworm to Bombshell inspired my to write down 50 things I am thankful for. This seems like a great practice, because things have been a little tough lately here--especially healthwise, so it's good to focus on something other than the gray clouds that seem to keep getting in the way!

My fiancé
Getting married in one (gasp!) month
The honeymoon!
My family
My friends
My two doggies
Having a job
Creativity
Alone time
Living in fun-filled city
Sunshine
The ocean and the beach
Rivers, lakes, the Greenbelt, Barton Springs
good books
Travel
SCUBA diving
our home
yoga
suprises
memories
weekends
potential and entrepreneurial spirit
the non-static nature of things
tenacity
sushi
chai
pizza
feta cheese
sunsets
jewelry-making
jewelry
music
movies & film
freedom
sleeping late and lazy mornings
pedicures
massages
wine
flowers
architecture
the internet
blue jeans
soft t-shirts
cable
hot baths
My sweetie's cooking
generosity
exercise
high-thread count sheets
nature

one crafter's renegade craft fair experience, craft shows, doing it all!

2010-08-19T12:37:00.000-05:00

I found this post great:
monkeysalwayslook: my renegade craft fair experience

I have been intimidated by Renegade and the bigger shows, so this makes it feel doable! And even maybe worth it profitably!
Plus, I learned I need to stand up at my next show. Long days and shyness aside! :)

{Monkeys Always Look}

Here's another helpful post, too from :

how well should you do at craft shows?

Perfect timing, considering there's an email in my inbox from a new gallery about being chosen for a show in December... I want to do it! Now to find the time to do the things I love (make stuff!) in the midst of trying to make a wedding happen and working so hard all day!

Here's some reader questions...

How do you juggle your crafty business if it's not your only business?

And do you have any tips for craft shows?

-Shanna

Favorite Things: Pin-up Style Swimwear

2010-08-13T10:40:00.000-05:00

With the countdown to my honeymoon on (52 days!) I stumbled across these beauties from Drama Queen, who's having a Summer Sale, and am having to sit on my hands to avoid buying one rightthisinstant to lounge in on the beach!

Which one is your favorite?

{source}

DIY Drink Parasols

2010-08-10T11:04:00.001-05:00

A Field Journal: Pink Parasols

More here:
www.papermash.co.uk

Handmade Weddings :: Etsy Blog

2010-07-28T16:39:00.002-05:00

Search: handmade weddings :: Etsy Blog

I love Etsy's new wedding section. So much great stuff for a DIY bride!

How-Tuesday: Create a Luscious Bridal Bouquet

Handmade Weddings: Southern Intimacy

News, a Party, and Favorite Things

2010-07-23T11:17:00.001-05:00

Sorry I have been AWOL! Big work deadlines and wedding planning make a girl no fun! I hope to have a bunch of new jewelry of my own by November, in time for EAST, a show at a friend's house, and the holidays. We'll see how that goes. I am also looking into classes to further my jewelry-making education (whether that's a MFA or just classes). In the meantime, my whole line is on display at Lovely Austin and they are having a PARTY on the 31st! I sure will be ready to celebrate that day as my work deadlines will have just passed!

Now for some new Favorite Things...

I am a big fan of this metalsmith from NOLA's two shops: Adorn & Conquer! & Ya betta' supa don't!
She uses metal to make jewelry about the issues and things she's passionate about, and I think that's awesome!

Adorn & Conquer is art for the body, jewelry for activists, and adornment with a message:

{SAVE THE GULF sea turtle necklace}

Every sale will donation $5-$10 (depending on piece) to the National Audubon Society, to help with the gulf spill oiled animal cleaning.

I had to buy this one, below, yesterday; can't wait for it to arrive!

I have been so distraught about the situation in the gulf with Kemp's Ridley sea turtles...

I love a purchase that will help these amazing creatures...

As a long-time SCUBA diver, I have a long-time love of sea turtles, and encountering them in the wild--on two occasions--has been among my luckiest and favorite moments in life. My sweet fiance even has a tattooed sea turtle on his shoulder! (The first time I saw that on our fourth date at Barton Springs, I knew he was a man after my heart. ;))

~

Here are some other awesome finds from her shops:

{SAVE THE GULF heart necklace}

{We Need Urban Farming}

Ya betta' supa don't! has more of her work, lots of it centering on NOLA themes:

I want this one, too!

{crab love necklace}

{Nola Shotgun Necklace}

~

That's all for today.

Talk soon!

xoxo

Shanna, SoCoDivka Designs

Favorite Things: Yermit

2010-06-26T12:16:00.000-05:00

I love their PLUSH AND DRUNK BEARS

If stuffed singer songwriters are more your thing, they have those, too!

Also... Zombies!

{http://www.etsy.com/shop/Yermit}

I need this hat...

2010-06-24T16:36:00.000-05:00

{manon of hollywood}

And her hair, too! Love it!

Loteria Confetti!

2010-06-24T14:11:00.000-05:00

I just got an idea for table confetti for our wedding, and maybe you can use this idea for something festive, too! I wanted to write it down before I forget it, because my mind is going a million miles a minute lately.

I bought some pre-cut paper flower confetti in aqua at Michael's for something dumb, like $4 or $5 bucks for a little jar. I was daydreaming of the other things I could make confetti with (going with our schizo vintage/Mexican fiesta/dia de los muertos/papel picado themes) and thought about the random stack of Loteria cards I found in our closet the other night (which you can find in your town or on the internet... I just happen to be a hopeless packrat). Plus, I saw some awesome cut-out stamps at Michael's that I bet could make confetti even more fun!

I will post when I make them and have pics to share. I have a busy weekend of crafting coming up - new vintage Lucite studs to take to Lovely, Austin, painting ball jars aqua blue for centerpieces, and making confetti!

{vista latina}

While I was looking for the graphic above, I also found this AMAZING fabric.... Guess who's ordering some for table runners... or hell, the ring-bearer pillow I keep putting off making! :)

{vista latina}

xo,
Shanna

Fabric Flower Crafts

2010-06-23T16:15:00.002-05:00

Here I go reposting from my wedding blog again. It's just that a lot of wedding crafts have non-wedding uses, too, and I am also wound up in channeling my creativity into wedding stuff for now... I can totally picture some non-wedding applications for these little beauties! Now to find the time!

DIY Wedding Challenge 2010: Fabric Flower - Project Wedding

Best DIY Wedding Craft List I've Seen!

2010-06-21T10:33:00.001-05:00

So excited about this, I am crossposting thjis great find from my wedding blog. Now if only there was more time to make it all!!!

43 DIY Wedding Projects For The Budget Bride

Purple HazeTreasury Feature

2010-06-16T23:53:00.000-05:00

My Vintage-Inspired Floral Necklace in June made it into a lovely treasury!

Hey Austin Crafters! Check out Crafting Comfort

2010-06-16T16:49:00.000-05:00

Crafting Comfort is a network of volunteers in the Central Texas area. Volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year making handcrafted items designed to provide comfort.

Volunteers come from all walks of life, young and old, sewing enthusiasts, knitters, crocheters, scrap bookers and many other varied interests. Their common goal is to provide comfort to those in need. Our volunteers understand how a warm quilt or a handcrafted toy can provide security in stressful situations. Handcrafts made with love and concern for the recipient provide their own healing power.

Here are current projects at the Charity Craft Center:

Medical Play Dolls - need 70 a month
Receiving blankets - need 50 per month
Kids surgical caps - need 20 per month
Breast Cancer Heart Pillows - need 20 per month
Breast Cancer Eye Sachets - need 30 per month
Breast Cancer Camisoles - need 20 per month

This sounds like an awesome way to use your craftiness for a good cause!

Etsians Help The Gulf Coast

2010-06-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

I stumbled across this shop today, which is a collective etsy shop to help the gulf coast recover from the BP oil spill. Etsy sellers have donated their items so that 100% of the proceeds will be given to the Gulf Coast recovery effort (after etsy and PayPal fees). More on other etsian efforts here.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49160947/nola-love-fleur-de-lis-unisex-organic

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49199670/i-stand-each-day-on-the-shore

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49284102/help-the-gulf-coast-octopus-fused-glass

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49324669/delicate-wing-pendant

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49446409/puddles-enameled-copper-earrings

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49429716/friendly-turtle-4x6-original-signed

Please help SoCoDivka Designs win a grant!

2010-06-10T14:26:00.002-05:00

Please help me out! I am trying to win a small business grant. This could really be the kick in the pants I need... To carve out studio space (instead of the kitchen table) and get some silversmithing supplies, so I can start working in silver at home (with ventilation for those acetylene gasses!). It would be a dream come true!

It only takes a second, and I'd be eternally grateful!

http://bit.ly/bz2ny6

It's super easy to do, if you haven't already, just go to that link above or click on "Add your comment" on the widget and fill out #3. "Cast Your Vote."

Many thanks!

xo
Shanna

Erica WeinerJewelry

2010-06-10T11:19:00.001-05:00

Amazing vintage and vintage-inspired jewelry can be found at Erica Weiner Jewelry.

I totally want this ring as a wedding band. The story behind it is fantastic (and as you may know, I am half Czech--I even majored in Slavic Studies--so I love anything Slavic!)

{14K Old Slavic Gift Ring}

{sterling}

{Blue Fluorapatite Raw Crystal Earrings LIMITED EDITION}

{Refurbished Giant Opaque Red Plastic Rhinestone Stud Earrings}

I have more goodness to share with you -- an amazing owl ring in sterling and gemstones I found on etsy for $20 (!) but the seller is on vacation now, so it will have to wait a few days...

LexLuxe Giveaway at Modish

2010-06-09T21:24:00.000-05:00

Gorgeous mesh earrings yours (if you're lucky) for a comment, tweet, post, or reblog!

An Etsy Game!

2010-05-23T21:05:00.000-05:00

Use the new Etsy suggested shops feature (go to favorites and click the tab that says "suggested shops") and post a link to the first shop on your list. Tell me in the comments if you LOVE it!

I got Tilly Bloom: Illustration Jewelry, Art Prints & Curious Objects
http://www.etsy.com/shop/TillyBloom

I do love it! Very much. Great, stark photography, too!

{Tilly Bloom}
http://www.etsy.com/shop/TillyBloom

How to Make Money on Etsy @ Inc.

2010-05-23T20:41:00.000-05:00

Be Different
Killer Photographs and Detailed Descriptions
The Art of the Listing
Get Involved

See the whole article here...

Simple Online Accounting for Crafters

2010-05-07T13:06:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest things that scared me about starting my own small crafting business was what if I were to actually make more than $600 in a year and be forced to file for taxes!? Somehow, despite being born to a mom who was a valedictorian in math, I ended up a creative type, wonderful with words and artsy endeavors. Math is lost on me, and not just that I don't enjoy it and that it doesn't come easily, it gives me full-on anxiety!

So, I was thrilled to have just found Outright.com. I just started using it. It provides FREE software that allows you to easily import from online accounts to put your bookkeeping on autopilot and prepare taxes and gives you up-to-the-moment reports for profit and loss, income, and expenses. So hopefully tax time next year (despite the added stress of combining finances and marriage for the first time!), won't be so stressful thanks to my little craft biz.

What I've been up to....

2010-05-07T11:11:00.004-05:00

Well, not making enough jewelry for one! I'm on it!

Almost all of my pieces are at Lovely, Austin, and I just have a small handful on etsy right now. What I do have up is 15% off through Sunday to for a Mother's Day sale. Happy Mother's Day to all the mamas!

This wedding planning takes a lot of energy!! But it's coming together. My DIY save the date postcards went out yesterday!

We also got to go to Jazzfest in New Orleans, one of my favorite cities in the world, to see a reunited Simon and Garfunkel. I hadn't been in more than five years since the storm and Mike had never been. (He fell in love, as I knew he would!) We ate delicious food --shrimp, oysters, crab, crawfish, muffuletta, po-boy--ran around the city, made new friends, and had as much fun as you can pack into 65 hours or so!

Is Etsy Old Hat...?

2010-05-04T17:16:00.000-05:00

That's a question a lot of us seller have been asking ourselves lately and that comes up in this article today:

Top 10 Reasons You Should Not Sell on Etsy

I myself was very successful in my first several months on etsy, then the sales began to taper off. At the same time, I have found a growing personal interest in boutique consignment and local shows and trunk sales to offest slow etsy performance. Especially when you log on to etsy and see the same handful of sellers getting attention without much new and provocative getting featured and stuff all over the site that is obviously not handmade or vintage.

I think maybe the ship is selling... and it's time to get creative with other ways of marketing your handmade business. What do you think?

Awesome Letterpress Giveaway!

2010-04-27T14:13:00.001-05:00

At the cute blog, oh, hello, friend:

letterpress week - daily giveaway #2:

I own a couple of prints from one of the shops in the giveaways! So cute. I love them in my vintage kitchen...

SoCoDivka Designs in a Springtime Etsy Treasury!

2010-04-20T23:40:00.000-05:00

I am thrilled that my Savannah necklace is featured!

Forgive me for oversharing...

2010-04-15T11:43:00.001-05:00

...but I just got a sneak peak of our engagement photos we took last Saturday with Heather Curiel.
I LOVE them!

Tonight at Lovely Austin!

2010-04-15T11:41:00.000-05:00

I'm having my first ever trunk show!

Please stop by if you can! Do it for the cookies and Cape Cods! Yum!

Thursday, April 15th
4 - 7 p.m.

Lovely Austin
1106 S. 1st
Austin, TX 78704
www.lovelyaustin.com
www.socodivkadesigns.com

Lovely Austin's Event Link
SoCoDivka Designs Event Link

SoCoDivka Designs Trunk Show at Lovely Austin

2010-04-12T17:20:00.000-05:00

You're invited to a Jewelry Trunk Show with designer Shanna Howard from SoCoDivka Designs.

Cape Cods, cookies, and shopping!

Thursday, April 15th
4 - 7 p.m.

1106 S. 1st
Austin, TX 78704

www.lovelyaustin.com
www.socodivkadesigns.com

----
About Lovely, Austin:

At Lovely Austin we believe that our shop should be a reflection of the lovely people who live in this unique city. There are many things that are important to us; living elegantly and simply, doing our part to be green, and providing a space where women can come together to buy, sell and trade wonderful goods.

Our collections are a reflection of these beliefs and we offer a variety of gently used fashions, eclectic jewelry and contemporary lines designed by talented local designers. It is our mission to redefine the expectations of consignment. Come visit us at Lovely Austin!

Affordable DIY Save the Date Postcards

2010-04-07T14:10:00.002-05:00

I'm cross-posting this from my other wedding blog... After I started talking to the blogger behind Oh So Beautiful Paper (a great site!) after commenting on the Spanish Garden Party Save the Dates post because I was loving on their Save the Dates ( I have yet come to calling them STDs as it seems many wedding bloggers, do!) and color scheme.

I thought I'd share with you my easy way to make Save the Date postcards on the cheap.

All it took was a little design research into what I liked, a little dabbling in Photoshop, a papel picado graphic that I tinted to match some aqua paper flowers I am using since we are having a bit of a fiesta/Dia de Los Muertos theme, a fun carnival font from 1001Fonts.com.

I was able to order 100 postcards for less than $37 at Vistaprint!! (Not including shipping and handling).

Now if only addressing and mailing them was that easy! Thanks to google docs' address web form, I am having some help with getting my address book into fighting shape.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-05T13:16:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a fantastic Easter weekend filled with wonder... friends... and sugar!

I Made It Blog Party at Everything Etsy

2010-04-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

This post is part of the I Made It Blog Party at Everything Etsy

Happy Spring! An Update on All Things!

2010-04-01T15:39:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone! My apologies for being a M.I.A. blogger. SXSW weekend I came down with a bad cold, and I've been missing in action for two weeks! I am finally recovering (and going to see Anthony Bourdain tonight at the Paramount, yipee!)

Not much in shop news to report, other than I am slowly getting new items listed on etsy that I made a while back for the Wondercraft Grand Opening and SXSW selling on SoCo that I didn't get to do. (I plan on selling on SoCo in May--I will keep you posted!). I did get to see a few bands (including Low Anthem, the Cave Singers, Man Man, and She & Him) at SXSW before I got really sick!

I finished up my silversmithing class at Doughtery Arts on Monday. I can't wait to show you pictures of the rings I made, and a pendant, and earrings. I made one ring out of vintage foil-backed Harlequin glass and another ring of gallery wire and prehnite. The pendant, I made out out of antique, white, floral glass in a paisley shape. Plus I made some hammered bands for Mike and I and several pairs of earring wires. I will get photos up soon!

Other than that, a lot of my creative energy is going to wedding planning and wedding-stuff-making. I made a batch of aqua and red buttoniers for the fellas. I will take some photos of those, too. And I customized a guest book and made a flower girl's basket and need to start work on the ring bearer's pillow. Plus I made an awesome hair clip for myself to wear! I need to make hairclips and necklaces for my bridesladies, too... I gave up on making my own veil though, and think I will order one soon.

Plus Mike and I took our first batch of engagement photos to try out photographers--it was actually a lot of fun. We ventured all over SoCo and South Austin. I can't wait to share those, too... More wedding planning and crafts can be found over at my other blog.

Thanks for reading! Happy Spring!

Come see me! 3/20 During SXSW in Austin!

2010-03-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

SoCoDivka Designs will be selling jewelry on Saturday 3/20 (morning/early afternoon) on SoCo behind the food trailers in Austin during SXSW! Come say hi!

1603 South Congress Ave.

{Source: www.cyburbia.org)

March is National Craft Month!

2010-03-10T12:29:00.004-06:00

Did you know that crafting can reduce stress, build self-esteem and increase physical dexterity? In fact, recent studies from NYU and Harvard have shown that activities ranging from scrapbooking to knitting can actually improve concentration, while enhancing health and mental wellness.

With interest from younger crafters, advances in technology, and riding the immense popularity of do-it-yourself web and TV programming, craft ideas and innovations are being spread across the globe to all four corners of the planet. Crafting has successfully survived another U.S. recession enjoying what some are calling a "crafting renaissance." According to the Craft & Hobby Association over 56% of all U.S. households are crafting in one form or another creating a $27 BILLION U.S. craft and hobby industry!

What are you currently crafting and how do you plan to celebrate?

National Craft Month at Craftster

How to Celebrate National Craft Month from eHow

More information from the Craft & Hobby Association

Celebrate National Craft Month from Craftplace

National Craft Month Supplies at Overstock

Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design Class

2010-03-09T23:04:00.000-06:00

I've been quiet lately, but I've been totally absorbed in a Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design class at the Austin Dougherty Arts Center. Here's what I've been making...

Photos from Lovely Austin...

2010-03-02T14:52:00.000-06:00

Here are my necklaces dangling in the window of Lovely Austin. If you happen to be in South Austin, go check them out!

Another much beloved shop!

2010-03-02T14:49:00.000-06:00

I have been coveting LORiOLA's amazing necklaces as long as I remember. She's having free shipping... So tempted! Cupcakes, skulls, all manner of hearts...

Which is your favorite?

{LORiOLA}

Adorable handmade vintage clothing shop!

2010-03-02T10:39:00.001-06:00

I can't decide what's more adorable about Nudeedudee's etsy shop--the lovingly crafted vintage clothes or the seller herself!

Check out the finds from her shop:

{Nudeedudee}

Wondercraft Blog Feature

2010-02-26T14:38:00.000-06:00

Wondercraft featured me on their blog:

Wondercraft Grand Opening... Thanks!

2010-02-26T10:07:00.000-06:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Wondercraft Grand Opening. It was a blast! I got to meet some awesome crafty ladies (and gents) and see some of my favorite faces! It really makes me want to do more shows in the future (this was only my second one), and I learned a lot (about how to secure displays in the wind... always having tape and rocks and lights on hand...how to set up credit card processing, and more). Thanks to the ladies of the Wondercraft for the opportunity, too.

Next Thursday!

2010-02-18T17:53:00.000-06:00

I will be selling jewelry there and have earrings in the free gift bags for the first 25 people!

Local talent at Lovely Austin!

2010-02-12T09:23:00.000-06:00

{Lovely Austin}

Come tie one on! The WonderCraft: Grand Opening at The Art Pad, Austin, Texas, Thursday Feb. 25th!

2010-02-11T16:06:00.004-06:00

The WonderCraft: Grand Opening at The Art Pad – Come tie one on!

The first 25 guests will receive gift bags chock full of handmade items, samples and other goodies!

SoCoDivka Designs will have vintage, Lucite earrings in the gift bags!

Vendors include: annemarie, Austin Art Metals, Baby Bolt, Craft Chi, DeLisa Designs, Frou Frou Skincare, Gypsy Harte, Merritt Gade, Nepenthe’s Bathtime, Pigsey Art, pommes frites, SoCoDivka Designs, Squid Ink Kollective & Sweet Wolf

Learn screen-printing and embroidery on neckties! - $3

Sponsors include: Apothecary Cafe & Wine Bar, Blue Note Bakery, The Cupcake Bar, Paper Place, Weasel Bee Studios, & EtsyAustin

Come tie one on with The WonderCraft as it celebrates its landing at The Art Pad, a walk-in mosaic studio offering art supplies, gifts, parties & classes (www.theartpadstudio.com), and now home to Lapis Lane, a Bead Boutique (www.lapislanebeads.com).

The WonderCraft has joined The Art Pad and Lapis Lane Beads to become the latest crafting destination
in Austin. The theme of the party is neckties, bring one or wear one, they’ll be crafting with them all night. The party will also feature locally handmade goods, food, and other Austin favorites. The ever-popular button maker will also be a fun activity. Photo booth by Lucinda Lewis.

Facebook Invite

Etsy Hearts are a Numbers Game

2010-02-02T12:10:00.000-06:00

This is probably old news to some of you, but I just stumbled across this older Storque article and it's an interesting way to take a look at a little bit of the math and ratios behind your shop... (for those of us who hate math.)

The Numbers Game: Ratios and Your Shop's Popularity

My First Etsy Treasury: from Cupcakes to Cowgirls

2010-02-01T17:29:00.000-06:00

{http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=109716}

Everything's Coming Up Roses, and a Give-away at Flea Market Style

2010-01-28T10:25:00.000-06:00

The prize is a beautiful numbered and signed print of an image plucked straight from the fresh, new magazine. Headlining a story on roses, the print is a beautiful souvenir of the magazine and the fresh take on vintage beauty we pride ourselves on delivering.
[Enter Here]

Violette Lilac Vintage Flowers Necklace.

2010-01-25T21:53:00.000-06:00

Save the Date!

2010-01-25T16:50:00.000-06:00

I was accepted to this show, and will be selling my wares there and have giveaways in the gift bags! Austinites, hope to see you there!

The WonderCraft: Grand Opening at The Art Pad – Come tie one on!

Austin, TX- February 25, 2010 6-9pm

Come tie one on with The WonderCraft as it celebrates its landing at The Art Pad, a walk-in mosaic studio offering art supplies, gifts, parties & classes, and now home to Lapis Lane, a Bead Boutique. The WonderCraft has joined The Art Pad and Lapis Lane Beads to become the latest crafting destination in Austin. The theme of the party is neckties, bring one or wear one, they’ll be crafting with them all night. The party will also feature locally handmade goods, food, and other Austin favorites. The ever-popular button maker will also be a fun activity. Photo booth by Lucinda Lewis.

The WonderCraft is a collaboration of four of Austin’s prominent crafters, together offering a myriad of talents. The result is part mobile crafting studio, part boutique, and part classroom. Operating out of a vintage Airstream trailer, they sell handmade goods, teach crafting classes, as well as host parties and events. Their new location at The Art Pad gives them the possibility of open hours on the weekends when they’re not traveling to another crafty event. Help them celebrate and come craft, party, and shop at this new collective Thursday, February 25 6-9pm.

The WonderCraft is located at The Art Pad at 4520 Burnet Road, Austin, TX, 78756
$3 to participate in the neck tie craft, otherwise it's a free event. The first 25 guests will receive gift bags chock full of handmade items, samples and other goodies.

New Necklaces and a Valentine's Gift!

2010-01-24T19:29:00.002-06:00

♥ ♥ ♥ Happy Valentine's Day!♥ ♥ ♥
Get $5 OFF ANY NECKLACE when you use the code "Sweetheart" at checkout!
Get FREE SHIPPING when you buy two or more items!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

FREE SHIPPING!

2010-01-22T11:51:00.002-06:00

♥ Get FREE SHIPPING when you buy two or more items! The difference will be refunded through PayPal.♥

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SoCoDivka

Cute Find of the Day

2010-01-22T10:42:00.000-06:00

spidercamp.etsy.com, provided lots of giggles and smiles today:

And she's having a "big "i'm sick of storing all these bunnies" bunny sale"!

{source}

Make sure to check out the wonderful collection of weird stickers!

Handmade Marketer

2010-01-21T12:48:00.000-06:00

Other etsy sellers, I highly recommend checking out the Handmade Marketer if you haven't already. Get tips and ideas delivered to your inbox in the EBC Action Newsletter, or follow her on twitter or connect with the Etsy Business Blog on Facebook.

http://handmademarketer.com/

Cute Find of the Day: Round Rabbit

2010-01-21T10:45:00.000-06:00

Round Rabbit's Nancy Schindler makes porcelain jewelry full-time, and is also an art historian and documentary film maker. I love her porcelain jewelry in bright colors and have had my eye on the clover and fawn earrings below for quite some time...

{round rabbit}

It's 10p.m. ...

2010-01-21T10:23:00.001-06:00

It's 10p.m. - Do You Know Where Your Shipping Package Is?

This article from Indie CEO is chock full of helpful etsy seller shipping and packaging advice, as well as some frightening realizations what our packages might travel through to get to our customers and how to better prepare in case the worst happens.

New Earrings in my Shop!

2010-01-20T21:30:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! How's your new year going?

It's been a slow month for new designs--too many other things going on: car shopping with the fiance, wedding planning, busy work schedule, parties and get-togethers, beer-making, birthday party planning, and volunteering. I'm looking forward to getting a chance to work on new jewelry this weekend!

I did manage to finally get these three cute, new earrings listed:

{Vintage Lucite Mod Hoops in Pink or Lilac.}

{Raspberry Gem Earrings.}

My Wedding Blog: South Austin Wedding Story

2010-01-11T15:00:00.001-06:00

If you have any interest in things wedding-related, I also have a personal wedding blog, South Austin Wedding Story, that I created to help bookmark cute ideas and plan as we figure this wedding thing out, at:
http://southaustinlovestory.blogspot.com/
With lots of etsy and offbeat wedding finds...

Cute Find of the Day: Sofia Masri

2010-01-11T12:25:00.001-06:00

Another one of my favorite shops full of handmade porcelain jewelry... I think soon I will finally buy one of these pieces I have been eyeing so long. But which one?

{source}

{interview with artist}

Cute Find of the Day

2010-01-08T11:24:00.001-06:00

This Italian-based hat maker had a hat featured in etsy's email today, and after I clicked over to her site, I fell in love. Not only is she adorable, her vintage-inspired hats are too! She also has so much fun with her photos, which is inspiring. Oftentimes photographing an item after the fun of creating it can seem like a chore, instead of another creative endeavor (and it shows in the photo; guilty as charged).

Time to start saving up for a hat!

{Retro Repro Handmade}

Etsy Homepage in my Favorite Colors Today

2010-01-05T16:45:00.001-06:00

Love that vintage '50s clock!

These are going to be our wedding colors, too...