Stosh B Designs

In all fairness, I first came across Stosh B Designs when she ordered some custom graphic work from me. But, I fell in love instantly, and I've become really familiar with her jewelry from working so closely with her product photos. This Silver and Copper Cuff Bracelet would so be mine right now, but I am saving up for a super duper printer and summer is my husband's slow season at work. As much as I'd love to say to heck with priorities, hubby just doesn't see it the same way.



All of the jewelry at Stosh B Designs is handmade at her home studio in California. To quote the About the Artist section at StoshBDesigns.com:

"My source of inspiration is often a mystery – simply put, I am inspired by the act of creating itself. I feel so strongly about this process that it has become imperative for me to do what I do. Working with glass and silver and creating wearable art allows me to focus my energies and passion into extracting things of grace and beauty from once inanimate pieces of glass and silver. In our chaotic modern world of multitasking and conflicting priorities, this focused, pure process is a gift that I simultaneously respect and treasure.



I'm big on texture- I have an OCD like compulsion to reach out and touch anything that looks like it "feels neat". Every time I see one of Stosh B Design's pieces I can imagine rubbing my finger across it and feeling the bumps and grooves. I love the combinations of textured metal and smooth stone along with the use of Asian imagery.



You can find Stosh B Designs by clicking on the following links:
StoshBDesigns.com
Stosh B Designs on Etsy

Mary Littfin

After almost a week of internet connection not up to par and getting my oldest ready for a spring break vacation with his best friend's family, I'm back with today's Monday feature for the home.

Some of Mary Littfin's earliest memories are of her mother sewing at the kitchen table. The passion for fabric started at a young age, and by the time she was 10 Mary's mom decided she was ready to use the sewing machine- power and all. Despite dabbling in many creative outlets, the joy of sewing is something she always returns to.



I love all the different styles in this shop. From elegant cloth dinner napkins to fun prints for your children's lunch box, this store has something for every occasion. And, not only are they completely reusable and eco-friendly, but they can definitely save you money in the long run compared to the use and toss alternative of the paper variety. Save the planet AND save money- how awesome is that?



In addition to the environmental and economical benefits, the cotton and fleece fabric choices are much softer than paper. And, no matter how cute the paper towel companies think their designs are, there is absolutely nothing that matches my decor. Included with the wide selection of cloth napkins you will find in Mary's shop, there are also sections for table runners, pennants, aprons and very trendy oven mitts.



You can check out Mary Littfin's wonderful wares at her shop on Etsy.

Sacred Suds

I don't get to try everything that is featured here on Upscale Handmade. It just wouldn't be possible- I can't afford it and I refuse to ever be one of those bloggers that goes around asking for samples and freebies so I can write some trumped up review of a product that I only like because it was free. However, in the case of today's featured shop, Sacred Suds, I can tell you exactly how much I personally love it.

I was admittedly nervous when it came to trying handmade soap. Would it really get me clean? Would I SMELL clean? Would I still enjoy my evening bath/shower ritual? Yes, yes and YES!




I can't narrow down everything I love about this soap to just one favorite aspect. The scents are pleasing, without leaving an overpowering smell on your skin (ever have someone walk into a room and you can smell their fruity, bubble gummy scent from 10 feet away?)There is a rich, creamy lather that leaves you feeling clean without feeling moisture deprived. The soaps at Sacred Suds are also vegetarian friendly and use no animal fats in the production. But, by far, the biggest testimony to how great these soaps are is my 3 year old who throws a fit if I try to use his Disney character soap on him. Sometimes I try anyway- just because he's cute when he's mad. It always starts off with a polite "no, thank you", but if I inch closer to the tub he will give me the evil eye and tell me "I said NO."



Sacred Suds soaps are inspired by deities of ancient mythology - Goddesses of love, peace, and prosperity, and Gods of action, nature, and joy. The soaps are cruelty free, detergent free, and dye free. Couple that with the commitment to minimizing the ecological impact and the choice to use only sustainable, environmentally friendly ingredients and suppliers, and this soap is not only body friendly but Earth friendly as well.



You can check out Sacred Suds for yourself by clicking on these links:
SacredSuds.com
Sacred Suds on Etsy
Follow Sacred Suds on Twitter

Monika Design

Monika Design offers the cutest little coasters you've ever seen. Originally from Czech Republic and now living in Florida, her style incorporates bright colors, wonderful design and, of course, excellent craftsmanship. She was even featured in the October 09 issue of First For Women Magazine.



Monika uses 100% cotton yarn in her creations. The cotton is super absorbent and soaks up any moisture to protect your surfaces from those unsightly rings. Many of the designs revolve around themes from nature- fruit, flowers and owls. Don't worry if you don't see exactly what you're looking for- she is more than happy to work with you to create exactly what you need.



Hand crochet coasters are a perfect gifts for housewarming, hostesses, teachers, friends, or just about anyone- everyone needs them. Why not have something cute and interesting instead of just a plain piece of wood? In addition to the coasters, Monika also offers a small selection of potholders, wash clothes and bath puffs. Wholesale is also available for those who may be interested.



You can find Monika Design by clicking on the following links. And, in case someone hasn't noticed, clicking on the pictures will take you directly to the Etsy listing for that item. :)

Monika Design on Etsy
Monika Design on Twitter

Sunday Brunch with Dean Custom Designs

For our very first Sunday Brunch interview we have invited Dean Custom Designs. You can get to know more about her and her products reading the following interview. And, be sure to check out her shop on Etsy for her wonderful line of Pursekeys.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I am married to man of my dreams!! I have a beautiful 16 year old daughter who just loves the fact I can make her really "cool" stuff!!


Tell us about your product.

My Purskey Line started out because I could not find a cell phone charm or purse charm that looked pretty!! I decided that why not try and make one myself! I went to a local beading store where they were most helpful in teaching me how to make a hook and I bought the prettiest purple czech glass for my very first cell charm!!




How did you start out creating?

I really enjoyed making my cell charm and wanted to make more!!! The problem was how expensive everything was!! I went on ebay and hit the jackpot with some really awesome quality beads and charms!!

What is your favorite aspect of running your own business?

I do not know that I have a favorite aspect of running my own business!! I enjoy making the Purskeys and really love to see one sell!!! I am not large enough at this time...lol




What direction would you like to go in the future?

I would really love to see everyone with a Purskey on their purse or Key chain. I am also trying to branch out by using the Purskeys on bridal bouqets, or vases with floral arrangement! I am currently working with a local florist on this last bit!!!


Where can we find you?


You can find me on
Etsy
Twitter
and Facebook