GIVEAWAY: Weekend Kits

Weekend Kits has been a longtime funky find! Over the years, Weekend Kits has continued to offer quality craft kits that cover many categories & appeal to crafters of all ages & skill sets. The biggest benefit of purchasing through Weekend Kits is that all the supplies can be found on one site versus wasting time driving around to multiple stores hunting for project supplies.

The new items section is a perfect example of the versatility & selection the site offers. There is a great selection of jewelry making kits for kids, as well as multiple quilt kits for beginners to name just a few. Weekend Kits also offers a large selection of Sublime Stitching embroidery patterns and plush animal sewing kits which I love! (Pictured: Klutz - Jewelry Making Kit for Kids - Dot Jewelry)

And, while it may seem way too early to start thinking about holiday crafting, December is less than six months away. This means that there is no better time than the present to start working on holiday projects. Thankfully, Weekend Kits makes it a bit easier with the numerous Christmas Craft Kits, such as the stocking kits and card making kits. (Pictured: Felt Pillow Kit - Christmas Craft - Colorful Tree)

I think it is so important to encourage the creativity in children. Weekend Kits makes it easy to provide youngsters with all the tools they need to complete a great project. The Beaded Bands Bracelet Kit by Klutz Jewelry is one of the site's best sellers. Order one today...and while you're at it, treat yourself to a project kit, too! Happy crafting everyone!!!

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats JC! ***

PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a Tree Crewel Embroidery Kit, a 5-Inch Embroidery Hoop, and a pair of Mundial Embroidery Scissors from Weekend Kits.

(items pictured above)

TO ENTER: Visit Weekend Kits & leave a comment on this post noting at least one craft kit you would like to have.

EXTRA ENTRY: Like Weekend Kits on Facebook,

then leave a comment on this post noting

that you have done so.

ENDS: Sunday, August 4, 2013 at 6pm CDT.

byMarta

Marta Berk of byMarta creates unique and original wearable art. Based in Brooklyn, New York, Marta is a painter & illustrator who creates low brow whimsical characters in oil and graphite. Currently, Marta sells her art as Giclée prints that she prints using archival inks on professional archival paper, as well as wearable art jewelry and hair accessories.

I adore the bright, cheerful designs Marta creates. The hand-crafted Peace Bird locket (pictured) that includes a small key charm is lovely. This image is also available in the form of an adjustable bracelet, as well as bottlecap hair clips.

The mushroom art (pictured) is a perfect example of Marta's whimsical nature which I love! This great illustration is available as a print, as well as magnets, hair bow, and necklace.

To learn more about Marta's work, visit her blog and her Facebook page.

SPECIAL OFFER: Receive a 15% discount on all merchandise with coupon code FF15OFF. Offer expires September 27, 2012.

GIVEAWAY: The Silver Craftsman

Sheldon Roy is the 14 year old creative force behind The Silver Craftsman. His shop features a wide variety of unique items made out of silverware ranging from jewelry to garden markers. I love the silver napkin ring holders (pictured) & the silverware bracelets with beads are beautiful. I asked Sheldon how he got started working with silverware.

"Last year, I saw someone stamping silverware and it was intriguing. I thought, I can do that! So I made personalized luggage tags for myself out of flattened spoons. That is where it all started and I was hooked. I made a few items for gifts and many started telling me, You have a real talent, you need to sell these! So, in March of this year, I started my own Etsy shop and it has really taken off. I like to say all my items are hand-crafted or handmade...there is a real craft involved, coming up with my own original ideas and unique items, telling their own story. My items aren't something you can find in popular jewelry stores."

He went on to say that jewelry making wasn't on his radar as an interest, but he really enjoys it now. In addition, Sheldon also enjoys basketball, baseball, fishing, playing guitar & also does lawn work. Talk about an active enterprising young man! SPECIAL OFFER: Receive free shipping when placing an order between August 6th and August 20th, 2012, with coupon code SHIPFREE.

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Elizabeth!***

PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a $25.00 credit for anything in The Silver Craftsman shop.

TO ENTER: Visit The Silver Craftsman & leave a comment on this post noting one of your favorite items.

ENDS: Monday, August 20th, at 9pm CST.

GIVEAWAY: Mary's Jewelry Designs

Mary Bishop, owner of Mary's Jewelry Designs, began making jewelry in March 2011 as a therapeutic escape from being a full-time college student with a full-time work schedule. Once she realized how much she loved beading gemstone jewelry, she decided to turn this wonderful hobby into a small business.

Mary specializes in beaded gemstone and pearl jewelry that are always unique and eye-catching. Mary says she strives to provide high-quality jewelry at affordable prices for the everyday woman. The wide selection of necklace & earring sets are terrific, especially the Chunky Blue Howlite Set (above). I also love the Multi-Colored Agate Gemstone set.

One of Mary's latest offerings are the polymer clay floral rings. Available in a variety of colors, these rings are the perfect accessory for any ensemble, especially during Spring & Summer months! Colorful coordinating bracelets are also available. (pictured: Bright Pink Polymer Clay Rose Ring)

Mary's Jewelry Designs has participated in several craft shows in the East Texas area, including Longview Trades Days, the 1st Annual Funky Finds Spring Fling in Longview, and arts and crafts shows at local churches. In 2012, she plans to participate in shows not only in East Texas, but also in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. You can also purchase Mary's products in person at Vines and Friends in Longview, Texas, on Saturday, June 30th, and in July - dates TBA. Also, Mary recently sent jewelry to Adele, Ann Rice, Kristen Stewart, Katy Perry, and Ashley Green, so keep an eye out when browsing magazines & you may see a celeb sporting one of these lovely designs!

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Angel! ***

PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a custom made beautiful three strand Picasso jasper gemstone bracelet (pictured). This gorgeous bracelet features Czech rondelle crystals & Picasso jasper gemstones. Matching necklace and earrings are available for purchase.

TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post noting which of Mary's designs you like best.

ADDITIONAL ENTRY: Like Mary's Jewelry Designs on Facebook, then leave a comment on this post noting you have done so.

ENDS: 9pm CDT, Sunday, July 1st.

GIVEAWAY: FENNOfashion

Megan Fenno began FENNOfashion in 2009 not only to sell trendy vintage-inspired accessories, but to be an active part of the community & worthy causes. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Megan has continued to evolve her lovely line of accessories. I have followed her work since the beginning & she is as sweet & kind as she is talented! Purple is my favorite color & I love the new Amethyst Chandelier Earrings. The Aqua Ornate Bracelet is another beauty, as is the Yellow Rose Ring, which is also very affordable. Megan offers a wide variety of necklaces & earrings, as well as jewelry made using Acai seeds & custom design work. Megan also writes for a great site, CincySavers.com, and writes excellent columns featuring DIY ideas & much more. Be sure to follow FENNOfashion on Facebook for special offers, jewelry giveaways & inspiring articles.

Receive a 20% discount on your entire purchase using coupon code FUNKYXMAS (expires December 17, 2011). Place order by December 17 & your order is guaranteed to arrive by Christmas Eve.

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Vicki S! ***

PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a pair of earrings or a bracelet (Winner's Choice) from FENNOfashion!

TO ENTER: Visit FENNOfashion and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item.

EXTRA ENTRY: Like FENNOfashion on Facebook & leave a comment on this post noting you have done so.

DEADLINE: 9pm CST, Saturday, December 17th.

Hovey Lee

Established in 2005, Hovey Lee offers a variety of exquisite handmade eco jewelry. Although Hovey has a degree in music & library science, jewelry making has been a part of her life since her teenage years & she has earned the Gemological Institute of America's AJP certificate. Hovey Lee strives to offer thoughtful, inspired & meaningful pieces that are personal & timeless. I really like Gold Press III (pictured), a carved brass cuff bangle made using reclaimed brass metal. Hovey offers a wide variety of beautiful earrings, including the sparkly pair named Carney II and recycled green glass drops named Vanna III. Hovey Lee also features many necklaces & rings, some made using gems, as well as a men's section. Learn more about this wonderful eco-friendly company on Facebook.

GIVEAWAY: Custom Hemp Treasures

Using the ancient technique macrame, Rachel Steck of Custom Hemp Treasures creates handmade hemp jewelry that is very funky & unique. Rachel says that she believes hemp is a very under-used material for jewelry. Made from the Cannabis sativa plant, a renewable resource, hemp is an environmentally-friendly product. By knotting hemp together, she makes beautiful hemp bracelets, necklaces, & anklets, all of which are customizable. She also incorporates beads, pendants & charms into her designs. I really like the hemp necklace with glass beads, as well as the braided bracelets. Check out Rachel's blog for more info, as well as Custom Knit Treasures where you can purchase her hand-knit designs.

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Sarah! ***

PRIZE: One lucky winner will receive a hemp necklace & hemp bracelet of their choice from Custom Hemp Treasures.

TO ENTER: Visit Custom Hemp Treasures & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item.

ENDS: Saturday, October 8 at 9pm CDT.

Burnt Spaghetti

Peta Cherubin of Burnt Spaghetti creates handmade jewelry that is colorful & kitschy. Based in Victoria, Australia, Peta uses lots of unexpected items, as well as vintage pieces when creating. I really like the paper-covered bangles, especially the vibrant red & blue one. The charm bracelets are packed with lots of interesting tidbits like plastic food and fun animals. And the personal hygiene earrings (pictured) are a hoot! Take some time to explore all the funky offerings at Burnt Spaghetti, as well as Peta's blog and Facebook page.

GIVEAWAY: Hip Fusion Designs

I've been a fan of Hip Fusion Designs for a while now. Designer Neida Joseph-Abel creates ultra-cool & hip handcrafted metal clay & dichroic glass jewelry. She says that two of her hottest sellers this season have been the Just Beachy Sea Glass bracelet (pictured) and the Summer Loving Bronze & Beaded Bracelet. Both are lovely & I'm so intrigued by the latter that is made using eco-friendly wooden beads made from coconuts!

Hip Fusion Designs also has a fun birthday club you definitely want to take advantage of. Simply email your birth date (year not required) to Neida at neida@hipfusiondesigns.com. On your special day, you will receive a coupon via email that includes a discount & a freebie, too. Talk about a birthday treat!

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Ginger & Tasha! ***

PRIZES: Two lucky winners will win a $50 gift certificate!

TO ENTER: Visit Hip Fusion Designs & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item.

1 ADDITIONAL ENTRY: Sign up for the birthday club (see info above), then leave a comment on this post noting you have done so.

1 ADDITIONAL ENTRY: Like Hip Fusion Designs on Facebook, then leave a comment on this post noting you have done so.

ENDS: 9pm EST, Saturday, September 3rd.

GIVEAWAY: Cold Picnic Jewelry

Cold Picnic Jewelry was formed last year by partners Phoebe Sung & Peter Buer. The duo says Cold Picnic is their attempt to carry on the tradition of storytelling through symbols. Their Spring 2011 collection was made entirely with vintage chains & findings and scrap leather from a local bird-toy factory. The result is a variety of unique pieces that make a statement. One of my favorite pieces is the braided brass bangle, the perfect complement to the braided brass ring. The leather pieces, such as the printed textile motif tube bracelet, are especially interesting. I would have to describe the lovely braided bangle (pictured) as hippie chic & the leather & mixed chain printed charm bracelet (pictured below) brings to mind eye-catching hieroglyphics from another century. Both pieces demonstrate just how unique Cold Picnic Jewelry's designs really are! The duo recently started a Twitter account, the perfect way to keep up with this great company!

*** GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Hugette E.! ***

PRIZE: One winner will receive a $30 gift certificate from Cold Picnic Jewelry.

TO ENTER: Visit Cold Picnic Jewelry & leave a comment on this post noting which design is your favorite.

EXTRA ENTRY: Like Cold Picnic Jewelry on Facebook, then leave a comment on this post noting you have done so.

ENDS: 9pm EST, Saturday, August 13.

Funky Five: Jewelry Designs

1. Noelani Villanueva of Coconut Head Jewelry specializes in creating odd, unique and interesting science jewelry. Pictured: Purple and Gold Erlenmeyer Flasks

2. Artulia Jewelry features handcrafted artisan jewelry by Meaghan Aires. Pictured: Circle Cluster Set

3. Debrah Block Krol of DBK Design Arts creates totally unique wire mesh, as well as stunning scarves and an assortment of hand-knit & vintage fabric pillows. Pictured: lime & hand-dyed ribbon cuff with brass rings

4. Catherine of Sparkles N Glitter creates jewelry, cell phone & camera cases, and cards that will add a touch of bling to your life. Pictured: Cupcake Necklace

5. Lisa Compton of Grimm and Grete creates urban bohemian chic accessories. Pictured: Rainbow Fluorite Multichain Necklace

Funky Five: Purple Power

1. Original Bracelet by Acai Jewelry

2. Purple Heart Pendant by Sketch Customs

3. Purple Princess Feather Earrings by Pretty Vagrant

4. Purple Iris Necklace by Beach Moms Designs

5. Social Butterfly Baby Onesie by Shirt Girls

FENNOfashion

Megan Fenno is the founder & designer behind FENNOfashion, an online boutique of vintage-inspired accessories that are handmade in Cincinnati, Ohio. This week she announced the launch of her new website that features the bells & whistles she has long dreamed about. Some of the new features include 'like' and 'tweet' buttons next to each product, as well as larger images. Users also have the ability to create a customer account and Megan's business news is now displayed in images instead of straight text. I have long been a fan of Megan's high-quality accessory designs. The new Champagne Ribbon Bracelet is beautiful and I love the girly Pink Hollywood Earrings (pictured)! Megan also offers lovely handmade clutches and unique Acai jewelry.

Jewelry Finds

I love jewelry year-round, but there's something special about unique accessories in warm weather months. A funky necklace or bold earrings can turn a simple warm-weather ensemble from casual to chic with minimal effort.

LoOnY JeWeLS features 100% hand-stitched & drawn bijoux created by Lisa Piccinini. Based in Italy, she constructs brooches (pictured) that feature an original ink drawing embellished with metal beads & sequins. I also like her bold & whimsical necklaces, especially the elephant.

Colette's Boutique is a great source for a variety of wire jewelry that incorporates beautiful semi-precious gemstones & sparkly crystals. The blue green Sunflower pendant (pictured) is the perfect accessory for spring & summer. I also love the Cleopatra earrings!


Michelle Watson, the owner & designer behind Mimi & Lu, creates accessories that are derived from a fine art standpoint. I would love to have several of the colorful Carolina bracelets (pictured) to layer. And the Lovescript necklace is lovely!

Los Angeles-based Under Oak Studios offers pendants, dirty words & shiny stones created by Joy Diani. Sounds interesting, doesn't it? The ladybug initial necklace is super cute and the Denim Wood Spears necklace (pictured) is a great statement piece.

And, for those who like accessories of the steampunk persuasion, there's Noble Studios. I especially like the a variety of cool rings made using antique buttons, gears & clock parts. Don't miss the extensive sale section! (pictured: Blue Rhinestone Propeller Ring)

Alloy Jewelry

Alloy Jewelry features tasteful designs that are personalized & hand-stamped, making each piece a work of wearable art. A mother of two young boys, Leah Jones uses mixed metals to achieve a funky stylish look in her pieces. Her collection of necklaces is full of unique creative designs, as demonstrated in the church window quote necklace. And the three-tone disc family necklace is a great way to carry your family close to your heart. Alloy Jewelry also offers bracelets & rings, as well as versatile charms & earrings. The domed disc initial ring is especially lovely. Leah says the most important part of her business is you, the customer, and she makes it her priority to respond to each request right away & involve you in the process of ordering the perfect piece. Alloy Jewelry is the perfect place to find gifts for Mother's Day, graduation & grandparent gifts, and wedding attendant gifts. And for all of you Royal fans anticipating Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton, you will be interested to know that Leah recently received a thank-you letter from Buckingham Palace thanking her for the "lovely personalized necklace" she made for the bride-to-be! If you're ever interested in hosting an "e-trunk show", contact Leah for more info. (pictured: Heart of Gold necklace - just an example of Leah's work; Giveaway winner chooses which necklace they would like to receive.)

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats marybelle! Leah is giving away a customized necklace (winner's choice) to one lucky winner. To enter, visit Alloy Jewelry & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. For an additional entry, "like" Alloy on Facebook & leave a comment on this post noting you have done so. Giveaway ends at 9pm EST, Saturday, April 9.

Bella Boutique

Bella Boutique was founded in July 2010 by Katerina Strange. At just 15 years old, she creates unique accessories using fibers, fabrics, and metals. When Russian-born Katia is not creating custom designs, she spends her time raising budgies, developing her talent as a classical pianist, and producing music videos for her online channel. By upcycling & repurposing everyday objects, Katia creates accessories that teens & adults will both enjoy. The snap tab earrings combine recycled soda tabs with colorful buttons, and the snap tab bracelet (pictured) are the perfect colorful accessory for groups of youngsters who want to show school spirit. Bella Boutique also features beaded bracelets, pearl earrings, and more.

One Star Designs

One Star Designs features one-of-a-kind wearable art created by Jennifer Julian. I love the electric Frankenstein charm bracelet. It's not only eye-catching, but the little charms are like special little treats you discover when examining the piece for a moment. Billed as the perfect bracelet for any Rockabilly Betty, the Cherries & Dice Oh My bracelet is another show stopper. As far as the bracelets go, I have to declare the One Sunny Hello Kitty Day (pictured) as my absolute favorite. This is the perfect accessory for Spring & I can think of few things that would put me in a better mood than a great Hello Kitty accessory. In addition to the funky bracelets, Jenn also offers unique earrings and necklaces.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Howell! One Star Designs is giving away a $30 Gift Certificate. To enter, visit Jenn's Etsy shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. For an additional entry, "like" One Star Designs on Facebook & leave a comment on this post noting you have done so. Giveaway ends at 9pm EST, Saturday, February 26.

Funky Five: Accessorize

1. Brown Woven Clutch by NV ArteWear

2. White & Green Sea Glass Necklace by Goofy Moose Productions

3. Brown Owl Hat by EnviroCrafter

4. Weld Punk - Danger Cuff by Mark Kalen Designs

5. Melon & Green Earrings by Felíz Beads

Funky Five: Valentine's Day

1. Pewter Heart Button Bracelets by Amy Peters' Studio

2. Recycled Wooden LOVE Sign by Oh Dier

3. Paper Valentine Heart Tee by EmersonMade.

4. DIY Felt Valentine Envelopes by The Crafting Chicks

5. Natural Love Blank Card by Yvonne4eyes

Ghostlove

Dawn Rozakis of Ghostlove infuses modern & vintage elements to create fresh new looks with a ton of personality & just the right amount of sass! This accessory brand consists of pieces that can be classified as Steampunk, Gothic, Victorian, Kawaii and more. The Pirate collection is a unique, nautical-inspired series that is sure to turn heads. I especially like the Octopus Brooch. The Lady Fetish bracelet is a very feminine accessory that is another fav. And, if you're looking for accessories that are a bit more whimsical, don't miss the Fairytale themed jewelry. The magical seahorse is divine!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Emily R.! Ghostlove is giving away one $20 gift certificate. To enter, visit Ghostlove & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at 9pm EST, Sunday, January 2nd. Please leave an email address so I can contact you if you are the winner!