Wednesday's Fifteen Minute Break

{via flickr}

Have a seat and take a break. I'm starting a new weekly series called 15 minute break. In these "fifteen minutes" I'm going to share some cool links with you. I'll cover everything from cool artists, photography, shopping or helpful resources. But no matter, it will be refreshing, relaxing and a stress free zone. So sit back and read on...

1. Craft Hacker - An insider's guide about craft hacking
2. Eleanor Harwick - awesome photography by a 15 year old in England
3. Indie Parade blog - photoblog of awesome things created by independent crafters and designers
4. The Blog Frog - Do you write a blog? Then you'll want to check out this site for cool widgets.
5. Banana Split Brownies - a delicious recipe by Kelly of Albanymommy.com

...come back next week for more cool links :)

Etsy Find: Beach Inspiration

The weather has been so nice I'm already thinking about Summer at the Beach. With this in mind, I found some lovely items on Etsy with a beach inspiration.

1. Surf by OneStepBeyond70

2. Vintage woven clutch by NattyFramebyPY

3. Sea Green Coriander headband by mixbaby

4. Sea Star by Flax and Spindle

5. Hibiscus rubber stamp by drumchick99

{found on Etsy}

Artisan Spotlight: Hooray for Spring!

Here are a few of my Spring favorites from Etsy...

(click images to see Etsy seller information)

Etsy Local: LA Black Bag

In preparing this article for you, I realize that I didn't want to showcase just any local (Charlotte area) Etsy seller. I wanted to find products whose creator is just as unique as they are. Alas, I bring you, LA Black Bags on etsy.

About the creator, Leslie Ann Black:
LA Black Bags is the creation of Leslie Ann Black. Leslie's philosphopy is that simple, uncomplicated, and classic styling is best. Leslie Ann Black has been sewing since in high school (70's), and she owes her skills to Aunt Betty Lou. Aunt Betty Lou, is the mother of two boys and welcomed the opportunity to have a girl's day of sewing with her niece. Leslie would start out with simple patterns and with each trip up the mountain (Berwick, PA) would see advancements in skills and techniques. Hopefully Aunt Betty Lou has forgiven her for those horrible John Wayne shirts with ruffles! Some things should never be repeated.

Here are just a few of her lovely creations (they also happen to be faves too!)

...fun stripes pattern and wristlets are so flirty ;)

Sweet Shoulder bag...soft colors and a nature theme perfect for all year long!

A beautiful handbag...reminds me of Summer at the Beach.

A classic shoulderbag...blue stripes are always in style.

Leslie Ann talks about what is so special about LA Black Bags :
"We have to really love what we do, to create a product that we are proud of. I believe in the independent creative process that is touched by human hands through every level, nothing mass produced. Each woman is an individual and so are LA Black Bags."

Leslie Ann also sells her fabulous handmade handbags in stores. You can get more information about Leslie Ann or her creations at www.leslieannblack.com but check out her Etsy store too!

When you buy a handbag, jewelry or anything for that matter, it's a great feeling to know that the creator/designer loves their work just as much as its new "owner". That's the best thing about handmade products.

Inspired by Nature

My inspiration today is all about nature . With Spring around the corner, I'm on the lookout for light, organic and natural designs. Here are some of my Etsy "nature" finds:

1. Printed scarf

2. Asclepius

3. Ceramic Coasters

4. Deer hand dish

5. Dandelion Necklace

6. Letterpress cards

7. Dandelion Scoop Tee

8. Bird wood pin

Oh dear...

Most of you know that I recently moved back to Charlotte, NC from Miami, Fl. After living in sunny and hot South Florida for three years, I took it all for granted.

I'm sorry, MIA. I didn't realize it then but I see you for all your beauty now. It's always too late isn't it? But here's what I love about you: 1) diverse cultures, 2) water sports, 3) beaches, and last but definitely not least 4) fun, fun, fun! Why am I bringing this up now, after living in a new city? Well, today as I was browsing through one of my favorite shops on Etsy, I was suddenly reminded of you, Miami.

Wham!

This dress is Miami to me - stylish, light, and fun. Miami will affect you and leave a lasting mark - even if you only stay for a weekend. I dare you to test my theory.

Long dress in grey by themachinestops $69

Tea Time

It's been raining all day and I feel like some tea. Join me for a cup? Oh no, I don't own a tea kettle. Well, I guess I can make tea in a regular old pot. But that's just not the same, is it? Another reason to shop...and get me one of these little teapots:

handpainted teapot by MotherHenna $40

This one keeps the traditional teapot shape but with a slightly whimsical and worldly view.

Green Teapot by jamestingey $95

James wheel throws his pots and the green color gives it a folksy look. Comforting.

Teapot by bellajoy $85

A unique design and yet simply called Teapot - made with porcelain and carved with a nature theme. This one is lovely.

Etsy shoutout: Yoola

I love accessories. Let me state that again...I luuuvvv accessories. And it's no overstatement when I say that I love the designs made by etsy seller, Yoola. Who wouldn't when you look at the intricately woven jewelry and home decor items she makes.

Golden Magical Flower earrings $33

Black Enchanting Isabelle necklace $26

Feminine Round lampshade $133

Felt Up Design

I spotted this designer on flickr today...I have two comments to make
1. Love the dress - it's so mod!
2. Art direction / styling is fab-u-lous!

Etsy Notables

A few treasures found on Etsy...

handmade coasters by seamsewswell

super cute magnets by Daisy Mae Designs

A sweet print for inspiration by Sinta