*Happy Monday!!*

This are some fast DIY and inspirational ideas for a Monday!

| Featured Seller | Joanna Horvat |

Joanna is a creative artist and a happy etsy seller.

---Please, tell me a little about your self.

I am a teacher and artist that lives in Sydney, Australia.

Art has always been a passion of mine. It was always my favourite subject at school and I went on to study art for many years after school. I love all different kinds of art- painting, ceramics, photography, jewellery design- you name it. I guess that is why my Etsy store has such variety. 

I am always making something... or thinking about what I'm going to make!

--- Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am a school teacher. Recently, I have been teaching English to grades 7-9. Everyday is an adventure as a teacher! 

In my spare time I love the outdoors- especially visiting beautiful beaches and lakes. I have a passion for food and I love to cook slices and cakes- tried and tested recipes that my mother has passed down. I have a quirky sense of humour and love having a laugh with family and friends. I love comedy series and funny movies too! I really love cats- I tell my students I am a crazy cat lady! I have two at home that require a lot of attention. You will see them pop up into my creations at times!

---What would you like to do in the future?

In the future I want to continue to both teach and create. I want to continue to design and make creations that I would be proud to wear myself. I want to continue to build up my Etsy store, Kite Design, so I can share my passion for creating with more people around the world.

---What does handmade mean to you?
Thinking, designing and making creations that you would be proud to wear yourself, but can't find any where else! 

---How would you describe your creative process?
I am always thinking about new creative ideas and how I can make them come to life. I choose to create things that I would love to wear myself but can't find anywhere else! Often, I think off quirky little things, like retro items, that make me smile. A work, more often than not, starts with a drawing and then turns into a piece of jewelry, a bag or a screen print. 

---Do you like what you do? Why?
I really love what I do because I have always had the desire to create, as well as the hope that I can inspire others too.



Some of Jo's work:

Thanks a lot Jo,

We hope to see your work again soon!

xoxo, Monica

| Featured Seller | Crystal Ho |

Crystal is a talented, creative Web Developer + Print Designer + Fine Artist.
Actually she works on Etsy, selling beautiful canvas cards.

------- 1. Please, Tell me how you discovered Etsy:
From a friend's laptop skin that she purchased through Etsy. I then discover that Etsy is like a treasure island.

-------- 2. What is your biggest inspiration?
My inspiration comes mostly from photo and life experiences. I go through photos of animals and find the ones that I can connect with. Each drawing represents a exploration of my inner being. They are reflections of self. 


--------3. What would you like to do in the future?
To have a home studio where I can have space to hold art classes, to work on web/graphic design, and of course, to draw!


--------4. What does handmade mean to you?

Handmade is a way of communication. It is valuable because handmade item is part of the artist's soul. It is personal. It's a gateway to communicate with the artist. It's a moment the artist wants to share. 

--------5. Can you tell us about a funny experience you had while working?

In my first carfare art fair under the rain, I found out that my patio umbrella is smaller than I thought and I end up setting up my booth under a bus stop. 


   Some of Crystal's work as an fine artist:

Some of Crystal's work as a web developer:

Thanks a lot Crystal, 
for being the first Featured Seller in The handmade blog.
We hope to see you again soon!