Whatever Holiday Shopping Guide, Day Three: Arts, Crafts, Music and More

Posted on December 5, 2012    Posted by      153 Comments

The Whatever Holiday Shopping Guide 2012 continues, and today we move away from books and focus on other gifts and crafts — which you can take to mean just about any other sort of thing a creative person might make: Music, art, knitting, jewelry, artisanal foodstuffs and so on. These can be great, unique gifts for special folks in your life, and things you can’t just get down at the mall. I hope you see some cool stuff here.

Please note that the comment thread today is only for creators to post about their gifts for sale; please do not leave other comments, as they will be snipped out to keep the thread from getting cluttered. Thanks!

Creators: Here’s how to post in this thread. Please follow these directions!

1. Creators (of things other than books) only. This is an intentionally expansive category, so if you’ve made something and have it available for the public to try or buy, you can probably post about in this thread. The exception to this is books (including comics and graphic novels), which have two previously existing threads, one for traditionally-published works and one for non-traditionally published works (Note: if you are an author and also create other stuff, you may promote that other stuff today). Don’t post if you are not the creator of the thing you want to promote, please.

2. Personally-created and completed works only. This thread is specifically for artists and creators who are making their own unique works. Mass-produceable things like CDs, buttons or T-shirts are acceptable if  you’ve personally created what’s on it. But please don’t use this thread for things that were created by others, which you happen to sell. Likewise, do not post about works in progress, even if you’re posting them publicly elsewhere. Remember that this is supposed to be a gift guide, and that these are things meant to be given to other people. Also, don’t just promote yourself unless you have something to sell or provide, that others may give as a gift.

3. One post per creator. In that post, you can list whatever creations of yours you like, but allow me to suggest you focus on your most recent creation. Note also that the majority of Whatever’s readership is in the US/Canada, so I suggest focusing on things available in North America.

4. Keep your description of your work brief (there will be a lot of posts, I’m guessing) and entertaining. Imagine the person is in front of you as you tell them about your work and is interested but easily distracted.

5. You may include a link to a sales site if you like by using standard HTML link scripting. Be warned that if you include too many links (typically three or more) your post may get sent to the moderating queue. If this happens, don’t panic: I’ll be going in through the day to release moderated posts. Note that posts will occasionally go into the moderation queue semi-randomly; Don’t panic about that either.

6. As noted above, comment posts that are not from creators promoting their work as specified above will be deleted, in order to keep the comment thread useful for people looking to find interesting work.

Now: Tell us about your stuff!

Category: Uncategorized    

153 Comments on “Whatever Holiday Shopping Guide, Day Three: Arts, Crafts, Music and More”

  1. Again: This thread is for makers of arts/crafts and musician/artists, etc only. Any other comments, including questions or comments about the books in the thread, will be deleted (and unlike I usually do, there will be no trace it ever existed). This is to keep the thread clear for its sole purpose: Giving readers here a list of cool stuff to consider for gifts this holiday season.

    Reminder also that there will also be threads for other works and recommendations:

    Monday: Traditionally published books (if you’re an author of a traditionally published work, you can still post here)
    Yesterday: Non-Traditionally published books (again, if you’re an author in this category, you can still post here)
    Tomorrow: Fan recommendations
    Friday: Charities

    So there will almost certainly be a chance for you to promote yourself and/or the work of someone who makes cool gifts.

  2. My name is Steve Nicholson. I used to be in a band with three other Steves called The Universal Steve. We managed to put out two albums in five years. They were released by a small label (the second was download-only). We will never see a dime from these sales, but I’m still proud of both albums and would love to see them fulfill their only real purpose which was to have people listen to them. The first is called E Pluribus Esteban and is available on iTunes and on Amazon. The second is called Ryer Island (named after the island in the Sacramento Delta on which we built the studio where we recorded the album) and is likewise available on iTunes and on Amazon.

    Here’s what the Sacramento News & Review wrote about our first album: 12 examples of organic bong-in-the-shed country rock—songs that ramble to a point and then nicely decompose. Especially stellar is Randall’s guitar work, which justifies the purchase price alone. Low-key thrills from the Nick Drake-and-Pavement-attack-Mickey Newbury songbook, but certainly worth your time. They also reviewed a live show.

    A couple notes: our label apparently wasn’t detail-oriented so listed Ryer Island as a country album (which it isn’t so don’t panic) and got the track order wrong. If you want to see the real order you can visit our website if you promise not to judge me on my poor 2004-era web design.

    So, a perfect gift for your friend or family member who is an organic bong-in-the-shed country rock fan. I would love to hear from anyone who likes or doesn’t like either album.

  5. Hi everyone! My name is Wumples and I make Wumplekins. I’m sure you’re all familiar with the standard sock monkey, but these sock creatures are a little different (Day of the Dead sugar skull sock monkeys, anyone?). Each sock monkey takes anywhere between 8-12 hours to make by hand, and if I say so myself, are pretty adorable. I also accept commissions and issue gift certificates. Visit Wumplekins on Etsy!

  6. I am in this band called Cheshire Moon. The main link is under my name. You can buy CDs there, you can also find us at cheshiremoon.bandcamp.com. You can listen to the CD and download it in all of the various forms that Bandcamp will let you download, mp3, flac etc. There are also a lot of mp3s on our website. We try to record demos of all of our songs and put them up for free.

    I hate having to describe our music, but if I had to I would say airy, pagan folk/post-punk.

  8. Thanks, John!

    My name’s Melanie Fletcher, and when I’m not writing I make Stuff(TM). Stuff(TM) includes, but is not limited to, jewelry (beadweaving, beaded bracelets and earrings, chainmail jewelry, sterling silver sawed/pierced pendants), plush dolls, knitted and crocheted items, artwork, and miniatures. I adore getting custom orders, and have an Etsy store at http://www.etsy.com/shop/belaurientarts. This week we’re running a sale — use the promo code 20PERCENTOFF to get 20% off your entire purchase. Sales will continue through the rest of the month — come on over and browse!

  11. Thank you for this opportunity, John! For a new artist like me, it’s a real gift of hope to get the word out!

    When you think about the music you love, what do you conclude? Are you drawn to meaningful, empowering lyrics? Tight, resonant harmonies? Sing-able melodies? Intricate instrumentation?

    If any of these are true, please try listening FREE to the Candles Enough debut EP “Fire on the Hill.” These four songs give a nice sample of our variety, from a folky tune to an angry rock beat to a sparse and moving duet to something that has been described as “Enya sung by Sarah Brightman.” I dunno about that last part, but it sounds good!

    You can listen to the whole album FREE at http://candlesenough.bandcamp.com and if you like what you hear, you can download all the songs for just $5. If you would like a “real” CD and not a virtual one, contact us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/candlesenough) and we will be more than happy to send one to you. Please Like us on Facebook if you get the chance so we can let you know when the next, full-length album comes out (and so you know when and where to find us performing live!).

    Candles Enough is the result of two women finding themselves and finding each other through music. Starting as friends, then best friends, then partners, and now wives, we carry a message about the inextinguishable spirit of the human heart, the loyalty of love, and the courage of dreaming in our music. These are our stories, our beliefs, our hopes, our fears, our failings and our triumphs writ large in the hope that they will encourage somewhere someone to find their own light in the darkness as we have found ours.

  12. Hi Folks, I use a microscope to take pictures of colourful and amazing mineral specimens and crystals i.e. Pretty Rocks. I’ve put these designs on all sorts of things, from art prints and cards, to mugs, some rather gorgeous jewellery, and even custom fabric. Way too many to list here. I’m still a bit new to the business side so my site PrettyRockDesigns.com is just a placeholder, but from there you can find all Pretty Rock Designs gear. Thanks for reading :-)

  13. I like shiny things.

    Expect obsessive attention to detail, unusual and high quality gems, delicious finishes, and singular designs at Madame Magpie’s Shiny Things where just about all of my jewelry is made to order for you.

    I’ve been pounding metal, collecting gems, and catching stuff on fire out in the Arizona desert since 2008. Been silversmithing since 1996. I have a penchant for Scandinavian Modern furniture, and you’ll see that love affair with sleek lines and forms in my silver and copper jewelry.

    Stop by and drop me a line. There’s still time to design custom jewelry pieces for Christmas. Let’s make something beautiful together!

    http://MmeMagpie.com

  14. Thanks for providing this venue, John! I’m offering:

    Slime Mold Photographic Prints
    Insect Photographic Prints, Insanely Discounted

    I’m a science photographer, normally for textbooks & magazines and the like, but this year I’ve put selected prints on sale for barely above cost- starting at $2.99/print- as it turns out that’s about the budget for the starving science grad students that read my blog.

    Oddly, while the prints have been selling briskly, it seems no one is interested in the bed bugs.

  16. ** Steampunk Monkey Nation, The Society of Sinister Simians, The Union of Superlative Heroes and The Order of Nefarious Villains **

    These are just a few of the character series represented as signed prints and trading card sets available in the ChetArt online shop. Also available: Famous authors, artists and musicians embodied as cats and dogs as well as a casino quality poker deck with 54 individual monkey portraits.

    Find this whole mess of lowbrow foolishness over at:
    http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChetArt

    Give the gift of monkey!

  17. Hello all.

    My name is Paul Weimer (@princejvstin) on twitter. If you’ve followed me on twitter, you are probably aware that one of the things I do, besides genre reviews and other things, is photography. This fall, I started selling prints of my photos to deal with a catastrophe involving the sudden non-warrantable failure of my camera.

    I’ve decided to continue to sell prints of my photos. I am happy to ship anywhere in North America. A selection of some of the photos I have available are here:

    http://www.skyseastone.net/jvstin/unjvst/009047.html

    My specialties are landscape and architectural photography. (I do have some animal ones from visits to places like Yellowstone National Park, too).

    If you should happen to see a photo that I tweet or share that is not in the selection, I’d be happy to create a print of that for you, too.

    Best Regards,
    Paul Weimer

  18. My band is Fit and the Conniptions. Reviewer Oliver Arditi said my lyrics were “intelligent, direct, funny and big-hearted”. The music is mostly bluesy folk rock.

    See what you think: http://music.conniptions.org/

    It’s ‘pay what you think it’s worth’ for downloads, and CDs are available. All CC-licensed, so if you like the music you are strongly encouraged to share it with friends.

  22. Ever attend a convention and wish you had something to hang your con badge from that wasn’t mass produced? Something that just work look good with your outfit? I make ID lanyards and badge pins that are both fun and functional, along with some shiny hair toys.
    All items are hand made or assembled by me, with occasional hindrance from my cat.

    http://www.etsy.com/shop/BeadsAbove

    I’m also offering free first class shipping for orders in the USA and Canada until Dec. 20.

  23. My name is Sam Haney Press, and I do awesome and terrible things to books – but don’t worry, I ensure that none of them are valuable or rare before I start transforming them, & I try to use every part of the book. I turn covers into book purses/clutches, I embed illustrations into jewelry, and mold/shape text pages into insects, flowers, and anything else upon request.

    To check out what I’ve recently created, I recommend my Tumblr page, and to see what I currently have in stock, go to my Etsy shop.

    I also have a holiday sale going on until December 14th: use coupon code HOLIDAYPAPER at checkout to get 15% off your entire order.

  24. John, thanks for providing this venue to your readers. I’m a fine art photographer located near the coast of Maine and sell prints, notecards, and such. Two of my bodies of work that might be of particular interest are my Adventures in Celestial Mechanics series (http://jimnickelson.com/adventures-in-celestial-mechanics/) capturing the rising full moon over the Maine landscape, and my night landscapes series (http://jimnickelson.com/nightfall/). Thanks for taking a look!

  25. Photography prints of various subjects ranging from cute animals to vacation spots (Paris! Disneyland! London! Even a T.A.R.D.I.S. in there somewhere!) Prints are available in a wide variety of sizes and materials as well as gifts (mugs, key chains, coasters, you name it and it’s likely to be there.)

    http://www.AnaviNoslo.com

  26. Ohhh, shiny thing so far, nice!

    My name is Shirley, and I don’t post a lot, but I do read Whatever all the time. I started out with one Esty shop making clothing and geeky amigurumi, but it just looked weird, so I split my products into two stores. I only have limited geek stuff right now (and I’m sold right the heck out of Jayne hats, sorry), but you can see what’s left at The Cutesy Faery

    At my original shop, The Glitzy Faery , my most popular items are my custom petticoats, but I also have some nice ready-made things.

    If you knit, I do have the best pattern for Jayne’s ma’s cunning hat over on my blog .

    Thanks for looking!

  27. Hi folks, I write music that goes a little bit like this:

    Mix equal parts Progressive Rock, French Electronica and Japanese Computer Game Soundtracks. Add a healthy portion of Sci-fi and Fantasy tropes and stir. Season with extract of Heavy Metal for taste and bake for more than a few years. Serve on a bed of software, samples and synthesizers with a side order of odd time signatures and sparkly capes.

    Hopefully that should give you a rough idea what I’m about, and if not you can listen here:

    http://music.scifielectro.com

    It should be free to download, unless a lot of people decide they want to do so before the end of the month, in which case it becomes pay what you want.

    Cheers!

  28. this is a fantastic idea! thanks!!!

    I’m a “knitter for hire”, specializing in hand knit accessories (hats, gloves, socks, scarves, cawfee cozies, etc), using only the finest natural fiber yarns. i have finished items for sale on my etsy site and also love to make custom request items!

  29. Hi Whateverites!

    Here’s an album of instrumental music, most of it categorized as “downtempo” or “chillout” with a couple of other sorts thrown in. http://jasonrubenstein.com/album/distant-early-warning

    It’s by me (Jason Rubenstein) and fretless bassist/guitarist Roman Morykit (of the band Gypsy Soul). It’s a lovely collection of music and it makes a wonderful gift to the music-lovers around you.

    Pay what you want; share it as many times as you like. And I sincerely hope you enjoy the music.

    happy holidays,
    Jason Rubenstein

  30. I make unique handmade bags from damaged books and comic books. Handmade in Dublin, Ireland, a waterproof coating makes them splash and drizzle-resistant.
    US – Bags purchased from my Etsy shop before midnight this Thurs 6th should reach you before Christmas
    UK – Bags purchased from my Etsy shop before midnight on Mon 17th should reach you before Christmas
    Ireland – You can buy from my Etsy store or also browse a selection in Tamp & Stitch in Templebar, Dublin
    http://www.etsy.com/shop/BrickAndAnvil

  33. I’m a visual artist who makes – among other things – GLITTER BACON CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS.

    Glitter bacon is my own invention. It’s handmade, one-of-a-kind, and people who’ve seen it in person ask me if it’s made of actual preserved bacon slices (it’s not – I painted all those realistic details on myself!).

    I also do kickass comic-book inspired acrylic paintings.

  34. Hey John! Thanks for doing this again this year.

    I wasn’t even sure where to put this, but today’s post seems to be the best place. I’ve started something that I hope will catch on: letters! (Note to younger readers: letters were like blog posts that you couldn’t click on.)

    The Letter is a monthly print letter that you can subscribe to. I’ll type up an essay, a short story, whatever is happening that month, maybe even throw in some recipes, handwrite it (or type it on a typewriter), put it in an envelope, lick a stamp, and then it will be delivered to you by a person in a uniform!

    There are different levels to the subscriptions. You can just get a subscription for a year or you can pay more and get free gifts, signed books, a collectible, maybe even a phone call from me. Details are here:

    http://sassone.wordpress.com/2012/01/11/introducing-the-letter/

    And thanks in advance for taking a look!

    Bob Sassone

  36. Hi my name is Laurent Lavigne and used to work in the movie industry. One day I left to make games.
    After 4 years of mostly not knowing what I wanted, I finally finished my first game with the help of the excellent Fraser McCormick.

    This game is McDROID, it’s a shooter-tower defense hybrid with robots, weird creatures and strawberries. McDROID is now in Beta and you can see it here: http://youtu.be/M7ISAi7v0RM. You can also get it at http://www.desura.com/games/mcdroid for half price.

    What’s fantastic about making a product rather than providing a service is seeing the reactions of people using it (http://youtu.be/k3lzyzx5clM).

  37. Hi, I’m Wondie and I make jewelry, clothing and accessories. Everything is handmade by me, giving it a unique quality. My items are available at http://rewondered.etsy.com and I am also still accepting custom orders for Christmas delivery. Most of my small items ship for free within the United States. Some of my most popular items include Simple Charm Necklaces and Earrings, Gamer Girl Dice Necklaces, Straitjacket Hoodies, Wondiosyncra-Tees (upcycled T-shirts celebrating what makes you wonderful), Monster Fleece Hats, and Tu-Tus in custom color combinations.

  38. Thanks again for this opportunity, sir!

    I posted yesterday about FAR WEST, my company’s transmedia property — a mash-up of Spaghetti Westerns and Chinese Wuxia that we’re exploring across multiple platforms: a tabletop RPG, fiction (which I posted a link to yesterday), art, a forthcoming webseries, and more.

    Part of that “and more” includes MUSIC! We’ve got a soundtrack album that’s available on iTunes, Bandcamp, Amazon and other places. The album is called ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE FAR WEST, and you can listen to samples (and buy directly from us) here on the website: http://intothefarwest.com/store/

  39. My mom is an artist, and I offered to post here for her – my friends always go crazy for her cephalopottery. Her functional and quirky ceramic mugs, teapots, bowls, jars and other sculptural pieces are durable, high fired stoneware. Choose from an astonishing array of squids, seahorses, mermaids, octopuses, and other interesting forms in wonderful colors. Enjoy! http://www.skybirdarts.etsy.com

  40. I’m Christiane of Threeravens Fiber Studio, and I make things for people who make things – that is, yarn and fiber for people who like to knit, crochet, or do other fiber arts. I also make simple textured jewelry from my yarn, as well as handspun yarn covered lamps. I blend amazing fibers, colors, and textures into a tactile rainbow of awesome!
    http://www.threeravens.net

    Thank you so much for offering this opportunity!

  41. Thanks for doing this, John. My husband and I run a small home-based woodworking business called Laughing Coyote Woodworks. If you’re looking for handmade, Vermont-made wood items and want to support independent artisans, please check us out. Our main website is Laughing Coyote Woodworks. We also have an Etsy shop. Thanks!

  42. I am Miss M. Turner and I run PhoenixFire Designs. I live in Florida with my guy and two cats. I am a handmade jewelry artist and my signature piece is the Tree of Life Pendant. I also make bird nest jewelry, earrings, bracelets, bridal/formal pieces and more.

    EVERYTHING CAN BE CUSTOMIZED! Since it’s all made by hand from scratch, I can easily accommodate special requests. I have won numerous awards for my pieces and have been selling on Etsy for 6 years now. A year ago, I had major surgery and lost my job while in recovery and decided to focus on PhoenixFire Designs instead and now I couldn’t be happier. I look forward to making something beautiful for you!

    You can also Like us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PhoenixFireDesigns

  43. Hi there! My name is Kt Obermanns, and I’m a freelance illustrator and artist. I do portraits, provide authors with illustrations for their books and stories, create comic books, design logos- if you need it done, I can do it. No dropping off a concept and waiting around for a picture that might not match what you want, either – I’ll work with you until you’re absolutely happy with your art. You can see a small example of my work here: http://ktobermannsart.tumblr.com .

    Thank you so much for this opportunity, John!

  46. Hello there. My name is Ed and I make musical things. I have plenty of music online for download at whatever price you feel is worthy. Genre-wise, my music is mostly influenced by progressive rock, metal, punk, and Weird Al. It’s a strange mix, but I think it works. Check out my bandcamp page at http://edklingenberger.bandcamp.com for my full-length releases. Or, if you’d rather, head to my blog at http://edmakesthings.wordpress.com for some Christmas music posted just a few days ago.

    Thanks again for doing this, John!

  48. My name is Casey Henry and I make banjo teaching DVDs. Actually, my whole family does. Our company is called The Murphy Method and we can teach you to play bluegrass banjo even if you’ve never SEEN a banjo before. (You do, however, have to HAVE a banjo…looking at it is optional.)

    My latest project is Banjo Backup for Fiddle Tunes, which teaches a whole bunch of backup for traditional fiddle tunes. You do already have to know how to play in order for this to be of use.

    But the one that everyone starts with is Beginning Banjo Volume 1 and it starts at the very beginning with “Here’s how you hold your banjo,” and “Here’s how you put on your picks.” If you’re giving someone a banjo, or know someone who is getting a banjo, this is perfect to accompany it.

    And we also have a couple DVDs for clawhammer (old-time) if that is more your style.

    Happy Holidays and Merry Picking Everyone!

  50. Awesome idea, John!

    I offer three of our songs you can listen to for free in in our Soundcloudand buy here in iTunes. (only the “Three Songs” EP is ours! the other one belongs to a different band with the same name!)

    We’re currently recording our crowd-funded album so if you like what you hear, support us by buying the songs in iTunes so we can release our debut album before the end of winter! :)

    Thanks again John, and merry days to everyone!

  51. Hello there! My name is Sara, and I specialize in two different crafty mediums: pottery and paper. The fun results of both of these can be seen at my Etsy site, http://branwen71.etsy.com . I have some holiday-themed items, and also everyday normal designs.

    My favorite pieces are my labyrinth meditation bowls and plates. If you can’t walk a labyrinth regularly (which is a very calming activity), you can trace the labyrinth on my pottery and get your Zen on.

    Happy Holidays!

  53. My name is Sarah and I am a graphic artist working under the alias of scorcha, purveyor of tasty yet insidious design & illustration. In addition to custom illustration, logos, and design, I love to work with my hands. You can find zombie Christmas cards, printed odes to goats, and handmade books in my shop on Artfire.

    Everything in the shop is hand made, from the wood cut I made for the Scapegoat print to the blank books that really are sewn together. I use recycled materials where possible, and the paper in the books is good quality, accepting dry materials and light washes.

    Please feel free to contact me with questions, and thanks for taking a look. And John, thanks for the venue.

  54. My name is Susan Fox and I’m an oil painter who specializes in subject matter from Mongolia, to which I travel every year (seven times so far).

    I also paint small original oils of a variety of subjects, including animals and landscapes, that I sell through my blog and which are very affordable because I believe that art is for everyone and that people should be able to have original paintings in their homes, not just prints.

    To see my latest offerings, go to: http://foxstudio.wordpress.com/available-small-original-oil-paintings/
    You are also invited to check out my larger works at http://www.foxstudio.biz and follow my art news at http://www.facebook.com/SusanFoxArt.

    Thank you, John Scalzi, for supporting the arts! And Happy Holidays to you all!

  55. Kate of Om Shanti Naturals, here, where I make all-natural, crap-free, occasionally geeky bath and body stuff. Everyone needs soap, right? And I’ve got plenty of that. Plus lip balm, body scrubs, bath oils, and other luxurious stuff. Y’all come shopping.

  56. We are ENOCH a symphonic black metal band from Italy. Our sound is hard to describe… in a recent interview our guitarist (who is endorsed by ESP Guitars, New York) said “it just sounds like ENOCH Metal”. Our latest CD “Tenebra” includes a multi-page, colored booklet and is available worldwide. For orders within North America send an e-mail to neonpromotion@gmail.com and ask for it. If you want to send “Tenebra” to family / friends in Europe contact enochmetal@gmail.com
    To find out more about us and our style, look at concert pics, click on this link right here.
    http://www.neon-promotions.com/Enoch.html

  57. Hello! I run a little Canadian business called Shiny Glass Creations. I specialize in making absolutely gorgeous fused glass jewelry. Our customers are absolutely blown away by how pretty our products look!

    Here’s one of many enthusiastic testimonials you can find on my feedback page: “This is my second purchase from this store, and the earrings are so beautiful and the seller is great too. I will be back for more in the near future.”

    Honestly, you have to check these out. If you’re a Firefly fan (and who isn’t, really?) the first thing you will think when you see the pictures is “Shiny!” This will be perfect for the Kaylee or Inara (or both!) in your life.

    And now you know the inspiration behind the name!

    We’re currently selling: earrings (both studs and dangly earrings), pendants, bobby pins, seasonally-themed earrings and pendants, and Christmas tree ornaments.

    If you’re interested in buying, please use the coupon code ‘SCALZI’ to save 10% off your order. We ship to Canada and the U.S.

    You can visit our store at http://www.etsy.com/shop/shinyglasscreations

  58. Remember the scene in Jo Walton’s TOOTH AND CLAW where someone finds a necklace? I made that necklace.

    I’m Elise Matthesen, sometimes known as Lioness, nominated for a World Fantasy Award in 2009 for making jewelry that inspires other people to write SF, fantasy, poetry, and a whole bunch of stuff. My named jewelry pieces have sparked writing by Elizabeth Bear, Jo Walton, Emma Bull, Sarah Monette, and lots of other folks, but you aren’t required to write a story or a novel just to enjoy and wear the shinies. (Though if you want to get pieces for inspiration for yourself or someone else, that’s lovely!) If you saw Lynne Thomas accept her Hugo Award in Chicago, the spectacular necklace she was wearing was on loan from me, and it’s on sale at the moment.

    Oh, right, sale! Yeah, I’ve been having a December Shiny Sale all this week, so the timing here is perfect. I’m adding things to it each day, too. (Look for tektite and meteorite pieces and dinosaur bone pieces coming tomorrow, because I’ll be up at the workbench this afternoon finishing a few new ones. I’m thinking tektite pendants and maybe a hair ornament or two. We’ll see which inspiration hits.) There are necklaces, pendants, and earrings in the sale using stuff ranging from coprolite to labradorite to Czech pressed glass to … well, let’s just say that if it holds still long enough, I’ll probably put sterling silver wirework around it.

    Scalzi has seen my shinies, so he can attest that they are both shiny and nifty.

    Honour your inner magpie!

  60. Hi – I’m Jon Lucca of TWIG CASE CO. We make the only FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 cases in the world, made from paper and bamboo.

    They also happen to be the most durable cases made from natural materials out there. :)

    Each one is laser-engraved, handmade and finished, and all right in the tiny town of Waseca, Minnesota. We’ve got well-known artists such as Jim Woodring, and not-so-well known, (like me).

    http://www.twigcase.com

  61. Hello! My name is Jake Boyd and I make custom designed emergency “go bags”. As we have seen recently in New York with hurricane Sandy there may be a time in your life that you need to get out of town in a hurry. When that happens what are you gonna take with you? How long will it take to get help? What will you eat and where will you sleep? I will design a customized emergency equipment go bag for you and your family. It will be tailored to your geographic location and to your specific needs in an emergency.
    For example. If you live on Manhattan Island you are not gonna need gear for living in a woodland environment. If you are a single man or woman your needs will be different than those of a family of three. And someone living in the Midwest will probobly not need to worry about costal hurricanes. Everyone has different needs and my gear will take that into account.
    Email me at alwaysreadybags@gmail.com and we can start getting ready!
    Thanks you John Scalzi for the opportunity!
    Jake

  62. Hello! I’m Betsie and I create fantastical fiber art to wear- scarves, headbands, brooches, and hairclips. All inspired by nature, fantasy, and folklore. My work focuses on using free motion embroidery to create intricate leaves, flowers and feathers in a myriad of colors. My leafy scarves are a one of the most recognisable of my designs… I even made a Game of Thrones weirwood tree scarf. Through fiber arts I aim to bring a bit of the fantastic into everyday life.

    Here is my Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheFaerieMarket

    Thank-you, John!

  63. Hi, I am a fine art abstract photographer. I create abstract, dream-like art of the small details of nature: leaves, seeds, and petals. Here’s what some fans have said:

    – It’s so beautiful it actually gave me goose pimples!
    – Your photography is magical + dreamy.
    – Hauntingly beautiful and elegant photographs.
    – Your art reminds me of outer space. It’s like the view from the Enterprise’s window.
    – It is magical, sensuous, luminous!

  64. Hi! I’m Liana Winsauer of Otter Necessities. My husband Ron and I make leather goods including belts, belt pouches, satchels, and other goodies, for both historical reenactors and everyday use.

    You can find examples of our work at our website: http://www.otternecessities.com/. From there you can use the contact form or e-mail me at otter at otternecessities dot com to place an order, or look for the “OtterNecessities” shops on Etsy or ArtFire. We usually keep at least one of everything in black and some shade(s) of brown, and happily do custom work.

  65. Awesome Awesome blog! My name is Brandie and I paint, original or anything requested for children’s bedrooms, your living room, weddings, showers, anniversary’s, ornaments and well anything that will sit still long enough for me to put my paint brush to it. I recently did a sailboat painting for a couples 25th wedding anniversary with their names written in the clouds. Name your budget and we will work within in it. I can be found at http://www.etsy.com/shop/intentionalhope
    Thank you!

  67. Hi John, and readers of the Whatever! I finally produced my first solo harp and vocal CD this year, after ten years playing in the filk band Wild Mercy and seven in the trad Irish group Alair; the tracks are all either original compositions or arrangements of traditional tunes. Has gotten consistent 5-star reviews on CDBaby.com by its listeners and is available in physical form or digital download at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/jenmidkiff Give your friends the gift of music at Christmastime!

  68. Again, many thanks for doing this, Mr. Scalzi.

    In addition to writing about things that go bump in the night (and morning and afternoon), I also make and sell my own jewelry. It’s a hobby I’ve had for years and just last year took to the marketplace known as Etsy.

    I make bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, do custom orders, make a lot of baseball themed pieces because it’s my favorite sport, and sometimes put up one-time, non-jewelry items. If you’re looking for something a little off-beat that most stores don’t sell, you might find what you’re looking for in my Jewelry Box.

  69. Hi John,

    I’m excited to announce that my son and I released our first iPad/iPhone/iPodTouch game, and it is available for free. As a tutor for children with dyslexia, my idea was to create a fun game that allowed children (and adults) with dyslexia to practice one of the core reading skills. We focused on vowel recognition (you pet a cat, sit on a cot, and cut a steak). Magnispies was born. It is a four level skill game where players must aim the laser and find the spies who carry the briefcase with the right vowel. It would make a great (free) gift for anyone who is in a reading program and wants to have a little fun as they learn to read with fluency and accuracy.

    You can find the game on iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/magnispies/id563738158?mt=8

    We hope to have it available in Android soon, but my son is busy with his work at a new startup company and I’m busy writing new books, so….please be patient. By the time we do the Android update, we’ll have some game updates too.

  70. Hi! I’m Kim and I sell home made gourmet custom scented soaps!! All of my soaps are made with ingredients that I find in my very own kitchen!!

    Here is my etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CloverKitchen

    I’m also wanting to sell home made gourmet lollipops!! So Drop by my shop every so often to check for that

  71. Hi Whatever readers!

    I’m a member of the Capital City Ringers, a community handbell ensemble in Lansing, Michigan. We play a wide variety of music: from Bach to Elvis, Trans-Siberian Orchestra to John Philip Sousa, plus original music written specifically for handbells, and we perform all over Michigan and the Midwest. We’re definitely not your grandmother’s church choir!

    We’re a non-profit organization and depend on donations and CD sales to further our obsession with this unique instrument. We have several CDs for sale, the most recent – Aurora Bronzealis – features live recordings from previous holiday concerts. One of my favorite pieces on that CD is the William Tell Overture which you can watch us ring live in this video. Also, because it’s Christmas, here’s a sextet of us ringing the ever-popular Carol of the Bells.

    Thanks for reading! Yay bells!

    http://www.capitalcityringers.com/

    PS: We have three concerts this weekend (Dec 7-10) for folks in the Lansing and Ann Arbor, Michigan areas. CDs are available for purchase at the concerts. See our website for details.

  72. Hey there! I make gorgeous one of a kind costume and fantasy frock coats and vest for men and women. I produce beautiful things to fit every body, and I do mean that! Visit http://kristismart.com to find the perfect coat for your wedding, your ringmaster performance, or the captaincy of your newest pirate ship.

  73. I’m Victoria Vesey, and I’m the brain behind Ninth Circle Design. I’ve been designing funny tshirts and buttons on Cafepress and Zazzle for years now (links on the website above).

    More relevant to this thread – I’ve started posting some of my art. I take nature photographs and draw trees. Weird, tentacle-like trees. Check them out on RedBubble at: <a href="http://www.redbubble.com/people/ninthcircle/portfolio if you like cards and prints and posters.

  74. Thank you for this opportunity!

    I’m Brittany of Forget-Me-Not Fibers and I hand-dye yarn, especially sock yarn, for knitters, crocheters and other fiber artists to use in their creations. I take my inspirations from nature, history, and geekery, and personally hand dye each skein to reflect their colors, textures, and theme.

    Don’t use yarn yourself but known someone who does? Sock aka fingering weight yarn is a great gift because usually you only need the one skein to make a whole pair of socks!

    Come check us out at http://forgetmenotfibers.etsy.com

  75. Hi friends! I live in Longmont, CO and participate in the medieval world of the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism – sca.org). I make leather-bound journals, woven crafts, and medieval attire. My shop is also capable of undertaking custom orders – perfect to suit whatever your taste!
    http://www.etsy.com/shop/applegirl5

  76. Jewelry is my thing, and I would love to hook you up with a special one-of-a-kind pair of earrings, a bracelet, or a necklace to give someone special this year (or to glam up your favorite holiday outfit). I also do custom work and upcycling of existing pieces into new pieces to wear. Come see what I have to offer at http://www.etsy.com/shop/BettysBeadSoup. (If you prefer vintage stuff, check out my other store, Faye’s Fabulous Finds…) Happy holidays, y’all!!

  79. “These are the stories of Edgar Allen Poe
    Not exactly the boy next do’.”

    — Lou Reed

    Lou Reed has released over 20 albums worth of songs since the Velvet Underground split. Some are great. Most are not. I love them all. But “Best Of” compilations are boring, right? And so, instead of hacking their way through the highlights, So. Cal. art rock stalwarts Wckr Spgt covered the worst of Lou Reed. The discriminating Lou Reed fan will regrettably get the point immediately. Half of the songs are done up in a real studio, while half of them feature more Velvet-Underground-inspired sonics — all of it shitty.
    To love Lou Reed is to hate Lou Reed, and nowhere is that tension better illustrated than on Wckr Spgt’s Shitty Lou. Available from Shrimper Records in two formats: mp3 download (obviously) and (less obviously) cassette.

  80. Hiya, what a great idea! My name is Casee Wilson – I’m a singer-songwriter based in York, UK (but I will happily send CDs to the US, and anywhere in the world in fact!) and my first album, Beggars and Blues is available at http://www.caseewilson.co.uk/beggarsandblues.html (real life signed CD) or http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/caseewilson (some real CDs left, but also downloads). CDs bought direct from me will come signed and with a free download card to give to a friend, or to keep (but I don’t mind the CD being ripped!) I also offer a bespoke commission service where you can have a song written for someone special – please contact me for more information :) Happy holidays and merry Christmas to you all! Caseex

  82. Hello! I make shiny things out of wire and pretty rocks and glass beads and whatever else happens to catch my eye, and people seem to like buying them. In fact, they seem to like it so much that my website is very nearly empty at the moment, but you can take a look at what’s left (and what’s sold recently) at http://wyrdingstudios.com and follow me on Twitter @wyrdingstudios for assorted randomness, pictures of shiny things (and cats, and occasionally a toddler) and updates. I should have some new jewelry up on the site by Friday.

    I also have a pretty nifty subscription thing available, where you can sign up to get a pair of earrings in the mail every month. Shiny surprises make a nice change from bills and junk mail!

  83. I am Joy of Joy Did It Fiber Art and Design. I am a shibori artist. Arashi shibori is a form of Japanese tie and dye that involves silk, string and a PVC pipe (really!). I work in silk and make a lot of scarves. I was in my first show last weekend!!!!

    My website: http://joydidit.com

    My online store: http://joydidit.etsy.com

  84. Thanks for featuring artists, John!

    I make these really cool Silk Ribbon Bracelets in all kinds of cool colors. Did I mention that they are cool? And unique. In a boho chic kinda way. Check them out at http://www.ever-designs.com/servlet/the-Bracelets-cln-Silk-Ribbon-Bracelets/Categories

    My shop http://www.everdesigns.com

    Currently running a fun contest to give you a chance to win one of my silk ribbon bracelets http://wwww.facebook.com/EverDesigns

    Be sure to check out the rest of my jewelry too!

  85. I am posting this on behalf of my wife, Elizabeth Harac, with her permission. She has created a single-person charity (501 C3 Non Profit, registered with the IRS), called Hands of Hope. She creates amigurumi (Japanese for “ridiculously cute crocheted things”) and patterns, and all sales of these items, from her store at http://www.etsy.com/shop/handsofhope goes to provide needlework supplies and instructions to help girls in Zimbabwe learn some skills and have the capacity to earn money to get an education. She is working with Girl Child Network Worldwide, which makes sure the kits are distributed appropriately. This also helps create social networks among the girls, which in turn gives them psychological support and a society of their own. Also, the stuff is really cute, and a lot of it is geek/sci-fi centric (items not currently in stock can be requested, and my wife will do custom work (she’s done some people’s WoW characters, for instance).

  86. Hi! Very cool of you to offer this, thank you.
    I make tiny little hand-sculpted food out of polymer clay and (most of the time) turn it into jewelry. I’ve got cakes, cookies, bread and more as rings, earrings and pendants.

    You can find me on Etsy as Petite Pastries.

    Thanks again!

  89. Thanks for doing this again, John. ^_^
     
    Crime and the Forces of Evil are a band of superheroes turned supervillains turned musicians performing rage-driven acoustic elfmetal. On the side, we record traditional mostly-Newfoundland music about piracy, riot, and revolution. Like all good supervillains, we’re heavily into DIY, and blog about about what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, and who we’re doing it to.
     
    Also, we tell you where you need to put the money if you don’t want a visit from our volcano-powered heat ray.
     
    mp3s are on iTunes and Amazon and the usual places, but our physical CDs are better gifts, and are on holiday sale right now. Protect yourself and your friends for less today!
     
            Dick Tracy Must Die, our first studio album:
            http://music.crimeandtheforcesofevil.com/album/dick-tracy-must-die
     
            Cracksman Betty is mostly riot and revolution trad, but also derailing lulz like “Dalek Boy/Cyborgs Behaving Badly”:
            http://music.crimeandtheforcesofevil.com/album/cracksman-betty-remixed-and-remastered
     
    We’re currently in the lair’s studio again, working with our minions on two different projects at the same time: our next studio album, Din of Thieves, and a fantasy novel soundtrack, The Free Court of Seattle. So follow the band blog for news and early warnings. Remember: no one can protect you if you don’t protect yourself, hmmmm?

  90. I design and print custom and pre-made maps and other graphic art for my store, The Rift Brain (http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheRiftBrain). Also for sale are original pen and ink drawings by hand. My shop has been featured on everyone’s favorite design blog, DesignSponge! Convo me on Etsy with the Subject “WHATEVERGUIDE” to get 10% off your order!

  91. Hey there, I am Aurora. I make jewelry of a unique and unusual nature. My themes range from the fantastical to the natural. I work mostly in silver and gold and I use precious and semi-precious gems. All of my stuff is hand made by me, largely at my over-sized jewelry bench in my living room (sometimes I have to fight the cat for desk space) Please help support a starving artist and check out my work at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/LoricaDesigns?ref=si_shop
    Or on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/loricadesigns?fref=ts
    Happy Shopping!

  92. I’m Cat Faber. I write songs about science fiction and fantasy subjects–a genre called “filk.” I have a CD out called “The King’s Lute” which is available at Bandcamp. You can stream the music for free there to see if you like it before you decide whether to buy.

  94. Hi – thanks so much for doing this! I am the owner of and creator/seamstress at Whimsical Dragonfly.

    Whimsical Dragonfly ~
    Handmade clothing and accessories for babies and kids that you and your child will love. I am constantly creating new styles and color combinations that are added to my shop monthly. Most of my pieces are one-of-a-kind. Fashion, comfort, and durability are always in mind and your child can have trendy boutique styles without the boutique price. At Whimsical Dragonfly, we celebrate the unique and the original – we want your child to stand out in the crowd!
    * Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/WhimsicalDragonfly
    * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whimsicaldragonfly
    ► DISCOUNT: use promo code WHATEVER for 30% off your purchase

  95. I make a wide variety of handmade knitted and crocheted items. I’ve got adult hat-and-scarf sets, children’s and adults’ hat-and-mitten sets, soft and colorful baby sweaters, fashion accessories, and doll clothes, all at great prices! I am also willing to do custom orders, just feel free to ask.

    My online store, Simply Stunning, is at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/sara7844

    And here’s a cute picture of a happy customer on my Facebook page:
    https://www.facebook.com/pages/Simply-Stunning-HandKnits/282621525112537

  96. Thanks for the opportunity!

    I’m Kristal Crow, and I’ve been creating original jewelry designs since 2000, primarily wire-wrapped pendants and beaded statement jewelry. I had to stop selling on the road a few years ago due to an injury (Hint: if you ever want to knock your garage down yourself, DON’T, hire someone to do it!). Now bedridden, I’ve turned back to my jewelry, which can be seen here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheRealCrystalCrow

  97. I sell one-of-a-kind knitted and felted soft sculptures that I call Alien Pets.

    Think of them as Teddy Bears for alien children.
    The bodies are knitted as one piece and then felted and stuffed. No two are the same. Each pet is numbered, signed and dated. They are made out of wool and wool blend yarns with button or needle-felted eyes.

    If your’re near Cincinnati I can be found at:
    Essex Studios art walk, Studion 231, 7 & 8 December, 6 pm – 10 pm.
    Cincinnati Observatory Center Luminaria, 9 December, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
    Brazee Street Studios Second Friday, 14 December, 6 pm – 9 pm
    I don’t have a web sales store but I have a Facebook page and I am willing to take comissions although there is limited time for this year.

    Links to the above locations are on my page.
    http://www.facebook.com/#!/AlienPets?fref=ts

    Embrace the unkown, abduct one now!

  98. My name is Michael Althauser, and I’m a wargamer and a roleplayer. I’ve been gaming and playing with dice since high school, through a variety of systems including Dungeons and Dragons, Pathfinder, Warhammer 40K, Warmachine, and more. In college I learned to sew, and thought I would turn that skill to making my own dice bags. That’s how Greyed Out Productions got started.

    I make high quality dice bags in a variety of colors and fabrics. I’m really fond of the suede dice bags, which come in a selection of colors and feel incredible because of the suede. I also make reversible dice bags, meaning you can turn them inside out to show different fabric depending on your mood. And last but certainly not least, I’ve started screen printing a variety of gaming related designs on dice bags as well.

    You can find my Etsy store at greyedout.etsy.com – if the HTML works, that’s Greyed Out

    I’m happy to ship internationally as well.

  99. Thanks for the opportunity, John! I’ve made a cool PC computer game called Artemis: Spaceship Bridge Simulator. It’s a multi-player game that lets you play “star trek bridge” with your friends, just like you wanted to when you were 12. Everyone has a role, and a computer station, and 2-6 players can work together to operate the ship and save the sector.

    Check it out at http://artemis.eochu.com
    Buy the digital download from https://sites.fastspring.com/artemis/instant/artemisspaceshipbridgesimulator

    The Fastspring 25% off code is WHATEVER
    The RegNow 25% off code is WHAT-L5QO-EVER
    Both codes are active until the end of the year.

    Thanks for playing!

  100. Thanks John!
    My Etsy shop is Below the Deep. My friend & I make jewelry and scarves – all handmade in NYC. Our jewelry is unique and inspired by the things that we love, so you’ll find a lot of semiprecious stones, distressed metals, and skulls. Our infinity scarves are all hand-sewn from super soft, luxurious materials like cotton, wool, and cashmere. Promo codes: WHATEVER for 10% off your purchase, and DECSHIP for free US shipping throughout December. http://www.etsy.com/shop/belowthedeep
    My other project is making ridiculous and/or amusing t-shirts, such as the Fake Geek Girl shirt. All shirts include free US shipping until December 10. http://faceless.storenvy.com/

  101. Thanks, John, and hi everyone!
    I’m a photographer – landscapes, cityscapes, and occasionally people in capes are my favorite things to shoot.
    I’m offering prints and calendars this year – go to JoshTrudell.com and click on Photography.
    No one wants to be the redshirt who doesn’t go there. Nothing good happens to them.

  103. Thanks, John, for rocking out these opportunities this week!

    I have t-shirts. There’s a zombie shirt – the NaNoWriMo inspired “I’m on a horse!” shirt, and some dolphins. You can check out the designs, there’s only four, but I think they are fun. (I’m bad at this sales pitch thing.) http://adorningschemes.spreadshirt.com/

    And then I have photography available through society 6 – mostly landscapes and some urban settings. Which also sells some stationary cards and iphone cases: http://society6.com/RADesilets

    Thanks anyone who stops by to check it out :)

    Rachel

  107. I’m Keli, the owner of Sheep Dreamery, a store selling yarn personally hand dyed by me. My yarn colorways vary; many of my current yarn colorways are based on Nordic culture. I also do a weekly videocast where I show and discuss the yarns I have for sale as well as talk about current happenings in the crafting world.

    A direct link to my Etsy store: Sheep Dreamery on Etsy

    My weekly videocasts on YouTube: Sheep Dreamery videocast

    Twitter: Sheep Dreamery

    Facebook: Sheep Dreamery

    Ravelry: Sheep Dreamery Group

    Use the code REDSHIRTS2012 for 10% off of your purchases until January 1!

  108. I’m posting this for my husband, Mr Bucket – Just call me Hyacinth. Mr Bucket hand prints original designs on high quality t shirts. The designs all feature the iconic Mr Bucket. We’re in Australia, so you’d have to be quick off the mark if you want delivery by Xmas! Payment is by PayPal.

    http://www.mrbucket.com.au/

  109. Hi everyone, I’m Jay (@jayisajedi on Twitter). I make and sell unique and occasionally quirky jewelry. My jewelry is very affordable because I reuse materials from other items as often as possible. For example, there is a bangle bracelet made from water bottles, which looks much cooler than it sounds. http://www.etsy.com/shop/HoneybeeAlley

  111. Hi! I am an artist (photography, digital, mixed-media) working with fantasy/space themes and also more classic nature/figural work. You can see some of my work at http://jeliza.net, which has a link to my online shop as well as work that is available but I haven’t listed on artfire yet.

    In my “regular” (rent-paying) art life, I design and produce custom fine photography books, particularly wedding albums, and you can see my work at http://www.alacartealbums.com. Actually making a new album in time for Christmas would be something of a rush job, but I thought I would put it out there anyway. :)

  113. Thanks so much for the opportunity to share my work. I make jewelry and household objects from glass, beads, and precious metals (sterling, fine silver and copper mostly) On my website, you can see my fused glass and dichroic glass pendants and shortly, I should also have some of my up-cycled glass bottle serving dishes on there as well. Thanks for looking. My website is http://www.RiverGirlDesigns.

  114. Do you like heavy, mean and moody rock music with angry synths and gritty guitars? If you do, check out my group, Ember After at our website: http://emberafter.com — there is cheap music to buy via Bandcamp, or iTunes, or Amazon mp3, etc. Or CDs at our CD Baby page, also linked to from our site. Thanks all!

  116. Thank you, John!

    I make websites of all kinds – blogs, forums, e-stores, and more. Do I code them from scratch? No… that would consume too much time and astronomically drive up the price. (Besides, that would mean I have to learn PHP, Java, Flash/HTML 5, and host of other computery languages. And then I’d have to make them behave with regards to one other, which is something I’m still trying to accomplish with my children. With that said though, I can make minor coding changes.) I use Joomla for websites and e-stores, WordPress for blogs, and SMF to create forums.

    The artisticality (alert: another made up word) is in the design itself. My favorite part is incorporating a logo and color scheme into a site. If you don’t have a logo we can come up with one together – or skip it. I’ve discounted prices for the next month (no really, I did – I’m not about the fake discount gimmick).

    Give the gift of “website” to yourself or someone else this holiday season!

    Website: http://www.webworksnw.com

  117. I recently released my submission tracking app for writers, Story Tracker for Mac. You can find a free trial version on my website, and it’s available for purchase direct from my website and also on the Mac App Store.

    It’s also available on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, and the database can be transferred to and from the Mac version.

    You can find out more at: http://andrewnicolle.com

    Thanks, John!

  120. Thank you for the opportunity for crafters and others to put their work out on this venue.

    I’m Amy and I work primarily in the style of illuminated manuscripts of the medieval, renaissance, and baroque periods. My work includes calligraphy and much of my work is custom-made for occasions such as anniversaries, weddings, births, and other life cycle events. I can also work in more modern styles, as well as hand-calligraphing thank you and occasion cards. My website can be seen here: https://sites.google.com/site/theskilledquill/home

    Finally, I make pearl jewelry (from earrings and broaches to bracelets and necklaces). I hope to open an esty store soon for my calligraphed and stamped cards as well as my jewelry . Check my website (which will be getting a re-work soon) for details about my esty site.

  121. Hi there! My name’s Dmitri, and I make a bunch of stuff- leatherworks, handmade and hand-painted masks (including a certain betentacled Elder God, for the Lovecraftians), all manner of steampunk accessories, digital art prints, and even a rather curious deck of playing cards- all of which can be found here on my site: http://tormentedartifacts.com/

    Or if you want, you can grab me on Facebok under the name Tormented Artifacts, or on twitter as @T_Artifacts.

  122. I have an on-line t-shirt shop. I do the designs, but have a company that does the printing so it will be of higher quality. http://slogansheroes.net Depending on your sense of humor, you may find some of them funny, you may not. But there are sections for each branch of the service, because I believe in heroes. Military and civilian. This is perhaps self-aggrandizing, as I was 25th Infantry and a Deputy Sheriff. There are also quotes from my Grandmother, and references to various books, movies, tv shows. I’m trying to work up something about “at least I didn’t kick myself in my own uvula”, a reference to Old Man’s War. I was falling off the couch when I read it! Forced my sons to listen to me read it, it has now become family code for “it could be worse”. 8)

  123. Hello, I’m Nadja. I make all kinds of things; I bead, I decoupage, I crochet scarves, hats, and fingerless gloves, I do some sewing… my main thing, though, is Transformers. I make Transformers jewelry, and I LOVE commissions. Come check it out, if you please. Helpful Cat Creations.

  125. Thank for this opportunity, John.

    I have two Etsy shops for my art.

    My photography can be found at http://irvingplace.etsy.com and my jewelry can be found at http://thefloatingmarket.etsy.com.

    My photography tends to hint at a narrative, and I always like to imagine the story behind the image. I currently have 4×6 prints, matted and ready to frame at 5×7, though other sizes are available on request.

    My jewelry is primarily made with found objects. I have a series of cufflinks made from old transit tokens and vintage settings. I call it “formal wear for the Post-Apocalypse.

    Both stores have just a few listings at the moment, because I want to start small and build up if there is a demand. However, I have many more items available than what is listed in the stores, so drop me a line if you like what you see in general, but haven’t see a particular piece that you want.

  127. I’m Margo Anderson. I publish a line of sewing patterns for making historically accurate Renaissance clothing. My patterns are some of the largest and most extensive ones in the industry, and each of them comes with a looseleaf, book length instruction manual with illustrated step by step instructions. They’re written for the intermediate sew-er, but I’ve had a number of dedicated beginners make them successfully. Check them out at http://www.margospatterns.com

  128. I make ceramics that are totally functionally and amazingly lovely. I use a fine porcelain and throw the pieces on a potter’s wheel, and my good friend Meghan decorates them using cake decorating techniques (imagine an actual pastry bag and all the different metal tips, but instead of buttery frosting we use clay). Each bowl, cup or vase feels great and looks elegant—this is art that you are meant to use and enjoy!

    Visit our Etsy shop and see if there’s something perfect for you or an awesome person you know: http://www.etsy.com/shop/jampdx

  131. Not arts and crafts but it is a product I make myself. Just a small production winery in the Sierra Nevada foothills (a couple hours north of Fresno, if that helps!) I make wines from some less usual varieties like Tempranillo and Verdelho, and they’re pretty darn yummy. I think there are even some regular readers here who are in my wine club… anyway, if you do choose to order, mention Whatever in the order notes and I’ll add a fun surprise to the order. We can ship to most states. http://www.twistedoak.com/wine Thanks John! – Jeff

  132. Thank you for the opportunity to post. My name is Alyssa and I make soy candles. I use several different materials. I especially take pride in trying to repurpose tins, jars and cans for making candles add also recycled fabrics for decorations. Take a look if you like candles :) http://www.etsy.com/shop/ohhappyday8

  133. Hello! I’m Kendra of Silver Owl Creations, and I make jewelry out of wire wrapped antique keys decorated with hand-colored brass leaves or wings, crystals, and bits of clockwork. I also make swirly wire earrings, bracelets, and pendants.

    My Etsy shop is http://www.etsy.com/shop/silverowlcreations.

    I’ll be putting adiditional pieces in the shop over the next week or so, and I generally post on my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SilverOwlCreations when new pieces go up.

  135. I’m the designer of a strategy boardgame called Fealty, published last December. It’s been generally well received, and I’m proud of it; it plays in about 30 minutes, but packs a lot of thought into that short playtime.

    It may be available at your local hobby/game store. If not, you can order it from Funagain Games, or other online stores which carry specialty games. (Amazon also had 1 copy in stock as of this posting.)

    [Hmm. The preview of this comment contains odd line breaks that I can’t seem to get rid of. Apologies if the formatting’s strange.]

  138. Whoa, cool! Thanks for this opportunity, John!

    They call me Rusty, and I make jewelry. Everyday jewelry, special-occasion jewelry, and most of all geeky jewelry. What I’ve got in my shop right now is primarily Transformers and Firefly-related, with a bit of LOTR and MLP-inspired stuff as well.

    I do customs as well, so if you’re a Whovian, Trekkie, Star-Wars…ite?, comics fan, whatever, I can make you a OOAK piece of shiny to express it! One of my repeat customers gleefully refers to my work as “stealth-fan” – she wears her Transformers pieces to her corporate job all the time, Transformers fans recognize them for what they are, and no one else is the wiser!

    You can find me here: http://spacehappy.etsy.com Hope to see a few of ya’ll! :)

  139. G’day!
    I am a keen photographer who lives in Australia and loves taking photos of things around me. Am lucky enough to live in a beautiful place with exotic birds, kangaroos, black swans and wonderful landscapes.

    I would appreciate any time you have to see my work at http://dryade.smugmug.com

    Prints and downloads are available for purchase.

    This is something I really love, I look forward to sharing it with you :)

  140. Well, I’m a little late to the party, but I will gladly thank John for the opportunity to self-pimp about a gift which keeps giving, that being a subscription to Bull Spec, a magazine of speculative fiction. Your target giftee (or you!) will get something immediate for under the tree or stocking stuffing purposes, and then occasional, semi-regular reminders of how awesome you were when another full-size, illustrated issue full of fiction, interviews, poetry, and more arrives.

  142. We are ENOCH a symphonic black metal band from Italy. Our sound is hard to describe… in a recent interview our guitarist (who is endorsed by ES Guitars, New York) said “it just sounds like ENOCH Metal”. Our latest CD “Tenebra” includes a multi-page, colored booklet and is available worldwide. For orders within North America send an e-mail to neonpromotion@gmail.com and ask for it. If you want to send “Tenebra” to family / friends in Europe contact enochmetal@gmail.com
    To find out more about us and our style, look at concert pics, click on this link right here.
    http://www.neon-promotions.com/Enoch.html

    (The text was edited on December 6th, Danilo is endorsed by ES Guitars, New York).

  143. I’m Sarah, and I left the world of federal contractor IT several months ago to pursue freelance writing/editing and art. I have a moderately twisted sensibility that leads me to making a lot of creepy but cute (but creepy!) artworks. Some of what I’ve made is available on my Etsy store: http://www.etsy.com/shop/RazorBunny

    My top seller right now is the Yeti Rug. Inspired by the classic stop-motion Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, it’s a faux sheepskin modified to look like the Abominable Snowman. I have a tendency to do unfortunate things to characters from my childhood.

    The shop is still a work in progress, but I think I’m getting there in terms of variety and quality.

    The item I’m most proud of is my stuffed squid: https://www.etsy.com/listing/115281753/slappy-the-squishy-squid

    He’s a prototype for a pattern I designed from scratch. I’m hoping to improve the design and start making these in various sizes and colors. Eventually I’d like to do a true Giant Squid sized toy.

  145. Thank you for this space, John!

    PROG ROCK ORIGINAL AUSTRALIAN MUSIC! I used to be in a band called “never”, a progressive rock band from Brisbane, Australia with a female singer and lyricist: me. The four of us built up a strong following in Brisbane over 5 years and released a CD independently after saving up a helluva lot of money to book the recording studio and mixing and mastering. The excellent cover design on the CD was by our drummer, Rudi Weber, who is also a graphic designer, and all of my lyrics are included in the CD jacket.

    Sadly, we each went our separate ways (I am now working on new music but don’t have anything released yet). However, we are all very very proud of our CD and the music is as strong as ever, even listening to it now many years later with a critical ear. I would love to get the music back out there. I still have copies to sell for $US15 each plus shipping (these are limited!). Contact me through my website http://about.me/Rowena_SW and let me know if you are interested in buying one of these limited CDs!

    But don’t take my word for it!
    LISTEN to three of the songs from the CD here: http://triplejunearthed.com/never
    READ reviews here:
    http://www.couriermail.com.au/entertainment/music/never-say-never/story-e6freqgx-1111113595429
    http://www.ravemagazine.com.au/content/view/4306/181
    CONTACT ME to buy: http://about.me/Rowena_SW

  147. I’m Tara and when I’m not working as a makeup artist (preferably special effects makeup) in film and TV I make creepy things in my basement. My most recent work is a series of pendants (or Christmas tree ornaments!) inspired by Lovecraft, Mary Shelley, and Bram Stoker, filtered through popular media. Check them out at:
    http://www.etsy.com/shop/evilcritter
    along with a severed head, masks, horns, books covered in “skin,” etc.

  148. Thank you for providing this forum- at OghamArt.com we create an exclusive line of prints, jewelry, stationery and other gift itmes using Ogham, the ancient Irish alphabet. We also do custom Ogham prints and tattoo designs. Please stop by and have a look! Use code: DEC2012 and save 30% off your purchase thru 12/9/12

  150. Hi, I’m Jay Spears, and my Xmas EP has five fab Xmas tunes that will get your Lords a-leaping and your geese a-laying. Adoring angels piously plucking their harps on high? I think not. Creamy harmonies, jingly beats, sassy saxes and a dash of attitude will make your Yuletide gay. Stuff THAT in your stocking, Little Mister! Hear ’em here:

    http://www.jayspears.com/xmas09.shtml

    Feliz Navidad, dudes!

  152. Coming to this party a little late, but here goes! I’m a singer and conductor, and two of my groups have CDs out. My a cappella vocal quartet Anthology has a CD of jazz and folk here. And my choral ensemble Cantilena just released a Christmas CD. The Cantilena CD will be of particular interest to classical nerds, as it has a number of pieces on it that have never before been recorded.

  153. I’ll immediately grasp your rss as I can’t find your email subscription link or newsletter service.

    Do you’ve any? Please let me realize in order that I may just
    subscribe. Thanks.

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