Meet Etsy Artist & Graphic Designer: Krystan

Krystan is a full-time graphic designer and illustrator, who often does freelance work as well. She earned her Bachelors degree in 2005 and has been enjoying her craft ever since. A Rhode Island native, she recently made the move to Providence in a beautiful neighborhood near the water. Inspiration for her bright, cheerful style comes from friends, music, bright colors, simple patterns, and "the general hilarity that is (her) life." Almost everyone she surrounds herself with is incredibly funny - and her day often mimics "The Office;" her favorite show. "I can't wait for the writer's strike to be over," she admits. Although she's been creating since she was a baby (she still has the first drawing she ever did), she's only been working on graphic design for eight years. "(Etsy) is definitely both a job and a hobby for me. I'm not sure what I would do without it!" Like most of us, she hopes to eventually transition to Etsy full time. "Take good, clear photos, have a good banner (of course I would suggest that!), and list often," she reccomends. Please check out her shop: http://krystan.etsy.com/

-Wendy Baylis

Dharma Designs

http://dharmadesigns.etsy.com/

Meet Etsy Jewelry Artist: ANORIGINALJEWELRY

A mere 23, Ashley lives in New York where she attended The Fashion Institute of Technology, studying Jewelry Design. While she has only been selling her cutting edge designs since 2005, she was already commissioned to create a custom piece for Warner Brothers Recording Artist "Mozella." Not surprisingly music is a big inspiration to her. She even has a "Music Inspired" section on her own website (http://www.anoriginaljewelry.com/). "I am also inspired by people in general. Sometimes when I meet someone I can imagine a piece that would go with their personality," she explains. "I like to do things that are eye catching while keeping in mind that eye catching doesn't necessarily mean huge or neon colors," she says of her edgy yet elegant style. She has been fortunate enough to turn her art into her career. "I am really throwing everything I have into this. Hopefully I can forge ahead and make a name for myself." She is committed to being a valuable part of the Etsy community, sharing her knowledge and helping other artists get exposure. "There is nothing wrong with sharing suppliers or tips," she suggests. "I do it all the time. I really believe that the beauty in this community is our access to each other. We are each others greatest resource! I think if you look at everyone as competition you're only hurting yourself. I love to buy jewelry and crafts from other artisans on Etsy, I believe you need to give support to get it back!" Well said. Please check out her Etsy shop: http://anoriginaljewelry.etsy.com/

-Wendy Baylis

Dharma Designs

http://dharmadesigns.etsy.com

My FAB new Etsy banner from artist: callista311

Well - I've decided to mix things up a bit and get a new banner, business card template, blog header, and labels. I chose the wonderfully talented Etsian callista311 this time around - and I'm so in love with her work so far I had to share. She completed the business card template and banner already (which is temporarily my blog header, too) - and I am completely impressed. She has shown not only great artistry, but patience, excellent customer service, and quick communication. I highly recommend her for all your Etsy shop and graphic design needs. Please check her out: http://callista311.etsy.com/

-Wendy Baylis

Dharma Designs

http://dharmadesigns.etsy.com/

Meet Etsy Metal and Jewelry Artist: BShehu

Bela, the hip young talent behind Etsy shop BShehu, is an up-and-coming jewelry and fashion designer, who had her own retail boutique in Center City Philadelphia for three years. "Being in love is the ultimate inspiration for me," she admits, which is expertly reflected in her elegant and romantic style. It may seem hard to believe, but she has only been selling her beautiful jewelry pieces for two years. At the moment Etsy is both a hobby and a job - and she hopes to get more exposure this year. She knows the importance of promoting on and off Etsy and reccomends her fellow sellers be dilligent in getting their name out there. Please check out her shop: http://bshehu.etsy.com/

-Wendy Baylis

Dharma Designs

http://dharmadesigns.etsy.com/