Today's featured artist is ButterflyMoon!

I need to sit and relax....breathe deeply.....breathe deeply......


Okay, it's not working. So, I guess I just need to learn how to macrame hemp because according to Jen, of Hemp Butterfly, it is very relaxing! And as I look through her shop I can understand why.....what a cool way to create such beautiful pieces. She has necklaces, chokers, earrings, bracelets, key chains, and even photography!

How would you describe your shop? Definately a work in progress. It still doesn't look like what I want it to look and it is missing a lot of items. But I am so very proud. I want it to have a feel that people will stop by and relax and find exactly what they are looking for. I want them to feel at home and calm and yes.. Irie.

How long have you been crafting? I have been crafting for over 12 years. Strictly beadwork and hempwork. My best friend Leann from Oregon taught me how to macrame and I took off from there. It is a form of meditation, unusualness and creativity all in one for me. I stopped for a few years, babies came and I found I had no time to be creative. Decided to jump back on that horse and get rid of all these images and creations in my mind. I want to be able to give a piece of myself to each and every person who stops by. Maybe I will inspire someone!

Where does your inspiration come from? Many, many places. I do a lot of bead window shopping, if I see one I like an image and idea will pop into my head. I spend a lot of money on beads! I get a lot of inspiration from nature, the ocean, animals and my kids. There is no easy way to answer this question I get ideas even in dreams...

What is your favorite piece? and why? I don't think I have a favorite piece. I love all the work I have done, they are like my children. But if I had to pick one today it would have to be my Chinese Butterfly and my Biddy Buddah Necklaces. I have been in love with butterflies ever since I was a little girl and this necklace well to me it is just striking. The Biddy Buddah, I love his serene, peaceful, calm face. I see this necklace and I feel so at peace. I hope they go to good homes.

How do you spend your time when you're not crafting? Oh boy! When I am not crafting I am thinking of crafting. I also work at a Title Company in Fort Lauderdale (Archer Land Title) as a closer, admin. assistant, notary and receptionist... I am a very, very busy girl. I love both my jobs, it lets me wear different hats and I learn so much and meet so many beautiful people everyday.

What is the best advice you have received? and from whom? This is another tough one. I have received such beautiful advice from everyone. But I think I have to give kudos to my wonderful partner in crime, boyfriend, husband, friend, my everything.. Mario.. He was the one who said are you happy with what you are doing? if not find something you like and go for it. I told him I wanted to start making jewelry and macrame again and he got in the car and took me to a bead store! He gives me unconditional support everyday, he takes my pictures, he is doing my website.. you could call him my number one fan as I am his also.

Final comments? Etsy has been a blessing in my life. I haven't sold much but I have made so many beautiful souls in here! Thanks to whoever came up with this great website that allows me to put my works and show them to the world.

Thank you so much Jen for participating on my blog! It was so much fun reading your interview (Mario definately sounds like a good egg! Oh, and I go bead window shopping all the time too!)!

Everybody must stop by her Etsy shop to take a peek at the wonderful macarame jewelry (and gorgeous photos) she has created! http://www.butterflymoon.etsy.com