Kiley has the cutest inspiration ever! I'm speaking of her beautiful daughter. I admire anyone who can manage to do any kind of craft while entertaining, raising, feeding a child. I don't have any children...well, I have a husband and a cat and those are hard enough to manage. Cherry Blossoms Design offers wonderfully delicate and beautiful hair accessories for little girls. Here's Kiley's interview:

What is your craft?
My craft is making beautiful & unique headbands (and other hair accessories) for infants, toddlers, and children.

How did you get started?
I established Cherry Blossoms in 2006 when my baby girl was born. I wanted high quality unique hair accessories that were both beautiful and functional and was unable to find any, so I began making my own. Compliments and inquiries from friends and family followed and after many requests, I decided it was time to make the big jump and begin selling my products.

Hobbyisit or Artisan?
I would have to say both. I believe it started out as a bit of a hobby but it has blossomed into something bigger. Doing this as a full time career plus being a mother and wife takes most of my energy. Not only am I making each item by hand I also am designing them, advertising them, and making sure they are comfortable and look adorable on delicate little heads!

What or who has influenced your art the most?
My daughter, she is my inspiration and My husband, he is my support.

Where do most of your sales come from?
Well I have only been a member of Etsy since the middle of May...I have had one sale so far and that was from a customer in the United Kingdom. I am working on some new designs to hopefully get online this month or next!

Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
Advertise! Advertise! Advertise! Word of mouth is pretty powerful. Also make a product you like making and that you are proud to sell!

Since this interview, Kiley has sold 9 more items! Congratulations! I know I'll be suggesting this shop to all my friends with little girls! Check out Kiley's Shop on Etsy. She can also be found at
www.myspace.com/cherryblossomsdesign. Thanks so much Kiley!

TA DA!!! Welcome to my new and improved, ever-evolving, cool-looking blog. Thickgurl is still arriving! Thanks to my husband, Thickgurl is constantly changing and it's getting better every time! Thanks Papi!!!

Presenting a wonderfully talented artist Miranda Hellman.She has some very beautiful paintings which are surreal and thought-provoking. She also makes amazing jewelry, books, and journals in another Etsy store called Mira Artz Here's her interview:

What is your craft?
I am primarily a painter and have shown in various galleries around New York. But I love handmade things and enjoy bookbinding, printmaking, jewelry, puppets and other hands on project I make up. As long as people enjoy the things I make, it makes me very happy.

How did you get started?
When I was in high school I worked for a Jewelry Store In Copenhagen, Denmark. The Woman who owned the store was great, she set me up doing repair work, alterations and custom work. From there I started my own Jewelry line that sold in small boutiques and craft markets.

Hobbyist or artisan?
Artist for life.
I love the arts. I graduated from Pratt Institute with a degree in Fine Arts, where I majored in painting

What or who has influenced your art the most?
Studying art history keeps me informed, humble and motivated.
I study all the masters living and dead. It’s a long list (so I’m not sure if you want to post that) my mom was good enough to take me to a lot of museums, shows, and the theater growing up.

Where do most of your sales come from?
Most sales come from recommendations from friends. And also people I meet at galleries and craft-shows around town.

Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
Stay committed and don’t get discouraged. The world today does not support the arts. The truth is that most art today whether it is dance, fine art, craft, theater is supported by the artists themselves. Some days I just what to give up. But then I think back to the short time I had a regular job, and the truth is, crating art is the best thing I know of.

Miranda Hellman has an awesome talent using different mediums and she also has some wonderful insight. Thanks Miranda!

Curvy Silhouettes » Blog Archive : Voluptuous Woman Company is casting for a movie » Voluptuous Woman Company is casting for a movie

Any lady that is interested in getting into the world of acting there is going to be a movie shoot soon in the Atlanta, GA area.

The Voluptuous Woman Company, Inc. has been chosen to conduct a preliminary casting of plus size women for a movie that will shoot in Atlanta, Georgia and feature a plus size lead.

If you are in the Atlanta, Georgia area, please send a full head shot and body shot along with your name, address, daytime and evening phone number, age, and size to casting@volupwoman.com by Saturday, June 23, 2007.

Casting Requirements:
*Seeking plus size women of all ethnic backgrounds
*Age 21 and up
*Size 16 and up
*Must live in the Atlanta, Georgia area

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

Emërtimet: bbw, entertainment

Alli Buyers: "They're not fat." | Big Fat Blog: "...So said the manager of a Walgreens in Santa Monica, California, where alli - the over-the-counter anal leakage weight loss drug - is selling well. 90 capsules, 60 bucks.

The tone of the piece suggests that buyers don't care about anal leakage; they just care if it works or not. And I'm sure, so sure, that this will be the one that works. Yep. Sad.

'I've tried so many other things,' said Monique Brown, a Santa Monica legal secretary who says she's been through Metabolife, CortiSlim and various products, some of which made her jittery. She dreams of losing 30 pounds.

At least, alli won't make her jittery, she said. 'I'm just willing to give it a try. There are side effects to a lot of things…. I work in an office and I sit all day. There's a bathroom right there. We've all worked together a long time. If you have to go, you have to go.'"

Emërtimet: health, weight loss

Ruben Esq's SketchBlog: Short Cuts If you haven't seen his work yet, you are missing some keen BBW erotica to tickle the fancy of that special man, (or woman) in your life. - Unita
------------------------------------------

I've gotten a few comments that I should draw women with short hair. I personally prefer long hair on women. I like seeing it and I like drawing it. I don't have too many drawings of women with short hair. If I do, it's because it fits a specific character, or I couldn't think of an interesting long style to draw.

Emërtimet: art, bbw

Tracey is a crafter in the true sense of the the word. She's got her hand in everything from jewelry to photography, knitting to card making. Like many crafters she wants to do it all, and she does! Here's her interview:











My main craft is jewelry design. But I also do many, many others. I'm a craft-aholic, I guess you can say *laugh* I also make cards, soaps, home-made remedies using essential oils and other things, decopauge and I make different items with polymer clay- including pendants and charms. I am soon going to be launching the Doe-Doe Dilly Bird line :) I also love photography and offer both matted and unmatted photos- some are digitally enhanced, but most are not. I am also working on something new, which I am VERY excited about. It's an invention that everyone (most who love electronics) will be able to use. I sent off for an inventor's kit for it *lol* Patent may be pending soon- not sure, it's so expensive! But it'll be making it's debut soon!!


I got started in crafts, in general, several years ago when I was in my early 20's. Hubby and I was in Wal-Mart and I saw a needlepoint kit I really loved. I told hubby I wanted it and he said, "You haven't ever done anything like that. You're not the crafty type. You can't do that." WRONG WORDS! Don't ever tell me I can't do something! So, of course I bought it and the rest is history. One thing lead to another. My sister is the one who got me into jewelry design. I kept telling her that I wasn't going to get into it, that I didn't need another hobby. But since I'm a rock, crystal and gem collector- it too seemed to be just a natural escalation.

I'm both a hobbyist and artisan. In my jewelry, I'm definitely an artisan. I call myself a Jewelry Artisan and Craftsman.

I'm not really sure anyone has influenced me the most. I'm a lover of all arts and appreciate all different styles and mediums, even if it is not my taste or forte. I respect all who do their art well and take it seriously. I find beauty in all things handcrafted and still find myself in 'awe' at the many wonderful things people create.
If I had to pick one person, I'd have to say, God. Seriously, when I look around at our earth and even in my backyard, early in the morning at just the pure beauty of the colors around, beneath and above me- I'm always amazed. And I always say, "Wow, God, you're an awesome craftsman!" or "Wow, what awesome craftsmanship!" *smiles*

To others I'd say, try not to get too disappointed when sales are down. (And I try to take my own advice) try to remember the reason you do your craft in the first place. We all do our craft(s) because we love making things with our own hands. It's a stress-reducer. We do it because it makes us happy and content while we are creating and proud of our achievement once it's completed. Now that we are selling our work, it can sometimes have the exact opposite effect than the whole initial reason for beginning our craft. Don't let the business side take the joy and peace away from you. Sometimes, we need to step back, take a deep breath and put things into perspective.

Thanks for the opportunity to share with others! I invite everyone to stop by my shop and keep checking back for the new items that will be making an appearance soon :)
I'm also opening a new store at mainstreetonlinemall- so you can find me at:

http://traceystreasures.etsy.com/

or

http://acraftersreality.blogspot.com/

I hope sellers take what Tracey says to heart because she's got a lot of good points. Thanks Tracey!

Emërtimet: etsy, interviews

Are you ready for Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance? — Full Figure Plus

I must say that I am looking foward to the debut of the third season of Mo’Nique’s Fat Chance. If you haven’t had a chance to see the winners of the America Votes video contest check them out. These lades will have a chance to be part of the group heading to Paris.

Emërtimet: bbw, fat chance, Mo 'Nique, monique

YouTube - AAGM: SHOW YOUR PRIDE

I am always intrigued by the male species of the craft world. They usually have a very interesting and different perspective when it comes to design. Choctaw's designs have quite a range from simple to intricate and Native American to modern. He has some wonderful creations and interesting influences. My most favorite it the armadilla ring, entitled Armando Armadillo.

Here's his interview (R.J.'s, that is, not Armando Armadillo):

I'm from the ghetto,homie. I was raised on bread & baloney. Never mind. I thought I was at open mike night at Rick's Flat Cat Bar & Grill.

I'm R.J. of www.choctaw.etsy.com and I'm addicted to silversmithing. It started out simply enough. I had just bought the single best men's sterling silver ring on earth at the time. It cost $175.00 back in the day. It was made of opal ,coral and turquoise. It had so much intricate work in it that it still amazes me.
I returned to purchase a sterling buckle and bracelet when it dawned on me that I could teach myself smithing if I bought the tools instead.



I began making gifts for Indian friends for birthdays. In months, orders began pouring in. I began doing shows and then opened a shop in a steel building because I am allergic to brick & mortar.

I kind of do my own thing. I don't feel limited to making only native american style jewelry just because I am one.

I am very deeply influenced by my dreams at night. I see all kinds of images and sketch them upon awakening. I am also influenced by late 1800's Choctaw jewelry seldom seen outside of local homes or museums.


Nature itself teaches me great lessons in design as well as in living.I am surrounded by wildlife as I live on 2 acres in the woods.
My philosophy is to try to create something beautiful everyday.
That makes me very happy.
A few tips to others might be to strive to be your very best at your craft. I am self-taught but you don't have to be. Use only the best materials available. Make things that will last. Pour your heart into it.
I still take custom orders,especially for rings. It thrills me to hear how happy someone is to wear it.

R.J. is also a comic. He's performing on Etsy 24/7 and he'll be on my blog all week!

Here's some insight to one of the many wonderful metalsmiths who are emerging on Etsy. Harmony Metals offers a wonderful selection of creative, one-of-a-kind precious metal jewelry. Here is her interview:

What is your craft?
I call myself a metalsmith...

How did you get started?
I went to college origionally for animation...a crafts course was required to graduate and luckily I took that early on...I chose jewelry fabrication and fell in love...so I switched majors...got my BFA in metalsmithing...and now here I am....


Hobbyist or artisan?
Definitely not a hobby...though I would do this for the rest of my life even if I didn't make any money...I just love creating unique pieces....

What or who has influenced your art the most?
I really don't have a lot of influence...to be honest I don't even really look at a lot of other jewelers work...I guess what drives me is to create something different...with my pieces...no two are alike...so I try to keep that going...




Where do most of your sales come from?
I make sales on etsy...and I get a lot of custom requests from friends and family...

Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
I would tell people to continue doing what drives you and makes you happy...never give up or feel defeated...there are a lot of people out there doing the same work...but you have to believe in yours...




It's always interesting to find out how people got started doing their craft and this was yet another example of the almost accidental emergence of a talented artist. Check out Harmony Metal's store on Etsy. You may find something you like for yourself or for someone special.

Here's another crafter Kunklebaby whose wonderfully crafted items for kids and infants have been inspired by her children. Her items are whimsical, colorful and fun! Here's her interview:

What is your craft?
Baby and Toddler gifts and accessories. Blankets, bibs, clothes and also custom slings.

How did you get started?
Kunklebaby was created after I had children. I found it hard to find stylish, hip items for both baby and mother. Everything looked the same-everywhere. I was still interested in style-even though I had children. Unable to find what I wanted, I started making it.Where do most of your sales come from?
Right now lots of custom orders-friends-family. I am new to etsy, so hoping to expand my circle.

Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
Love what you do. If you're not totally behind your work, no one else is going to be either. Have fun with it!
Hobbyist or artisan?
Hmmm. Artisan. I just like to think of myself as creative and unique.

What or who has influenced your art the most?
My beautiful children. Also my art background-I'm also a painter. I love color and form. I think it shows in my fabric and dress shapes.






So check Kunklebaby's store for your kids or if you know someone else who does. These items would also make great gifts.

Fiddlestitches is a shop which makes clothing and accessories for boys and girls. They have really cute items and the prices are very reasonable! Here's her interview, it short, sweet and to the point:

What is my craft?
I make clothing and accessories for children.

How did I get started?
I have been sewing since I was sixteen. I started Fiddlestitches after making hairbows for my daughter's cheer squad.






Hobbyist or artisan?
Not sure what I would be considered. I do run a fulltime business.

What or who has influenced your art the most?
My kids inspire the items I make.






Where do most of your sales come from?
Craft shows we work probably 20 a year.


Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
Promote, Promote, Promote!

There it is. We now know a little bit more about Fiddlestiches-in a nutshell. So if you want your kids to look cute check out her store on Etsy.

A Punkin Card Company is a wonderfully creative store which has beautiful handmade paper products. She's right up there with some of the better stationary and card creators on Etsy. You should check out her store. Here's a little bit about her:


1. What is your craft?
My craft is paper goods, mostly cards.

2. How did you get started?
When I was planning my wedding I looked into wedding invitations online and saw how much they cost for so little detail. I thought to myself, "I can make these" and I had a blast making them. Now I take that same creative drive to make cards and other paper goods.


3. Hobbyist or artisan?
Mainly a hobbist. In the near future I would like to make my little venture legal and get my business license.

4. What or who has influenced your art the most?
Well, my mother-in-law. She is very crafty and give me great inspiration to continue my craft. Also my fellow etsy crafters. There is nowhere else in the world where you can get encouragement and enjoyment out of a group of people.




5. Where do most of your sales come from?
Mainly from Etsy buyers but some are from local buyers in my town.

6. Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
I love my hobby and though I have had many people tell me that my cards are amazing, there are still people who think what I do is silly. Know that whatever you do, do it from the heart. Love it with all your soul no matter what other people think. It might be hard in the begining but if you keep at it your dreams will come true. I know it sounds silly but it just might be true.

Thanks A Punkin Card Company for your interview. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of you. I wish you much success.

This crafty crafter Natorious has quite a talent in many different crafts. It's always exciting and admirable to me when people have the ability to create with all different kinds of mediums. Here's her interview:

What is your craft?
I make all sorts of things. Truly. I've painted and drawn for as long as I could hold a pencil. I started sewing when I was very young, and mastered the sewing machine by 10 to make clothes for my toys. I learned to knit about a million times, but finally remembered how in university. So my craft is whatever I feel like making at the time, and this ranges from acrylic folkart paintings, to beaded jewelry, to clothing, to bags, to cat toys (I have a cat), and plush toys and things people ask me to make for them!

How did you get started?
Oops, I guess I started answering that question already. I need to keep my hands busy doing something almost all the time, otherwise I go crazy. So this rapidly turned into me multi-tasking: making something while participating in a conversation, sitting in class, watching a movie, travelling, etc. Eventually this turned into my spending money on materials that turned into toys and other things that I either gave away to charity, friends, or let accumulate in my home. Then I found Etsy!



Hobbyist or artisan?
Hobbyist for sure. I teach geology at a community college as my "day job" - and while I love making all the things I make, I really only will (if I'm lucky) make enough to restock materials!

What or who has influenced your art the most?
My surroundings. As a geologist I love love love going out into the great outdoors to explore and nerd out looking at rocks. So, when I find beautiful rocks I like to turn them into jewelry. When I see colour combinations in nature I like to replicate them also - I'm really into earth tones and warm colours, so often fabrics I use and colours I put together are inspired by the mountains or sunsets.
Otherwise, watching my cat do cat-like things certainly helps come up with an idea or two - especially for toys!



Where do most of your sales come from?
Well, I haven't been on Etsy for long, but the most I've sold has definitely been cat related. Actually, before being on Etsy, most of the items I was asked to make were for cats (my hand knit mice are popular - although none have sold on Etsy yet!). I'm still getting a feel for what will sell when I get my name out in the big wide world of Etsy!

Do you have a mantra or any tips for other artisans?
Hmmm... well, what I do is make what I love! And I have fun doing it. I'm putting love and good karma into my items, and I hope that the buyer of them will love their purchase, bringing that happy good karma back around! Not much of a tip, but it's certainly a mantra!


Thank you Natorius for insight on your crafts and for taking the time to do this interview. I hope everyone will check out her store.

YouTube - Mo'Nique Says "The Girls Are Walking"Not only am I impressed, I might be a little jealous. They are walking...do you hear me baby?

YouTube - Plus size tips and tricks

Men get a double-dose of reality this Friday, will they ever survive??

The Bachelor Guy » 70% of Women Fake Orgasms - 7 Tips to Make Sure She Won't With You: "Sit down. I've got some bad news for you. She fakes it. Maybe not all the time. Maybe it's only happened once or twice. But it's happened. Sorry, bubba, but some of that screaming has been pure When-Harry-Met-Sally-inspired theatrics.

Why would she let you think she got off when the only thing she really wanted was getting you off... of her? A few reasons. But the good news is it may not have been you - or your technique - that kept her from achieving sexual nirvana. Studies show that only 25% of women are able to experience The Big O through intercourse. (Compared to well over 90% of guys.) That leaves three-quarters of the ladies out there needing a little something more than a little of the ol' in-and-out to get their world rocking."

Emërtimet: fun facts

Think Your Penis Is Too Small? Think Again, Study: 85% Of Women Are Pleased With Partner’s Penis Size, But 45% of Men Wish Theirs Were Bigger - CBS News: "(WebMD) Eighty-five percent of women are pleased with their partner's penis proportions — yet many normal men suffer 'small-penis syndrome,' urologists report.

Small-penis syndrome is the anxiety of thinking one's penis is too small — even though it isn't. It's a totally different condition from having a truly tiny tinkler, a condition known by the cold, clinical name of micropenis.

Urologists Kevan R. Wylie of Royal Hallemshire Hospital and Ian Eardley of St. James Hospital in Leeds, England, review the literature on penis size in the June issue of the urology journal BJU International. They urge doctors not to laugh away these very real worries over an imaginary defect.

'It is very common for men to worry about the size of their penis,' Wylie says in a news release. 'It is important that these concerns aren't dismissed as this can heighten concerns and anxieties.'"

Emërtimet: fun facts