Parasols on Parade

To shield the powerful rays of the sun, parasols have been used for thousands of years. Here is an ArtFire shop, dbvictoria, that will have you taking a summer stroll in elegant style. Whether you are looking for Gothic Lolita, Steampunk, or simple Victorian, ruffles and lace gracefully dress up these sun blockers creating exquisite fashion accessories.

My daughter enjoys costuming in steampunk style and Victoria's parasols have wide appeal in this realm, as well as reminding me of the elegance of Mary Poppins or My Fair Lady. These parasols would also make exceptional photo props in any trendy studio.

Victoria also has a line of clever dust ruffle petticoats to add the perfect layer to your costuming. This artist then uses her talents in the jewelry arena, creating a line of beautifully beaded chokers among other charming pieces.

What is Victoria's secret? She is inspired by romance and beauty, and has a magpie's eye for shiny things.

Victoria designs in Washington State and ships internationally. More of her work can be seen on her website, and she is also found on Facebook.

Reindeer Bracelets

Maravilla is a very unique shop on zibbet where I discovered a wide array of interesting items, but the one that made me pause and take notice were the reindeer leather bracelets. Available in five colors of leather, Kelly decorates her attention commanding jewelry with woven pewter and copper wires. These pleasing designs can be enhanced with reindeer antler, silver beads or leather cording.

Kelly also fashions buffalo leather bracelets decorated with aged bone and sterling silver beads. If Steampunk is to your liking, be sure to see my favorite, the dragonfly necklace. This multi-talented lady doesn't stop there. She has beautiful punched tin and copper work, including prayer boxes holding your notes to the Father. Her copper light covers must look enchanting in the dark. You can even order a custom hatband for your favorite cowboy hat. What a unique and interesting artist!

From a studio nestled on a mountain in northern New Mexico, Kelly creates her treasures and ships internationally. She can be found on Etsy and has a website dedicated to her tinwork, with a second website where you can place custom bracelet orders. If you have any questions or special requests, don't hesitate to contact Kelly. She looks forward to working with you!

The Eyes Have It

This interesting and impressive ArtFire shop, DesertRubble, has a very unusual, eye-catching jewelry collection. Lynn has tried her hand at a variety of creative outlets over the years, developing a wide range of skills that she has put to very good use. She now turns her artistic passions toward exploring the wonders of polymer clay, which she has done with the skill of a master.

Be sure to stop by Lynn's blog to read a very candid discussion regarding her style, and where she feels she fits in the artistic community. Whether she calls her work Industrial Surrealism or some of her work falls into one of the Punk varieties, Goth, Steam, Industrial, or Cyber, it doesn't matter to me; I just know I like what I see.

Lynn creates her awesome steampunk visions in Arizona, ships internationally, and can be found on Facebook. If you are interested in a custom piece, please contact her, but be aware that all of her art works are unique and although she may create one similar, an exact replica is not possible, always assuring you of a one-of-a-kind treasure!

   

Masquerade Ball

The intricately cut leather work of masks and headbands can be found at a breathtaking Artfire shop, Tom Banwell Designs. If you want to make an impression at a masquerade ball, your unique designer leather mask will be found here. Bugs, Beatles, butterflies and bunnies are all found in an array of colors. You will enjoy browsing through this shop as each page presents with unexpected delights. Look at the span of the horns on that goat helmet!

A serious steampunk fan will discover a range of unparalleled leather helmets and masks guaranteed to be the hit at your next steampunk event. Tom also has a line of distinctive steampunk top hats. The Victorian cut work on the riding hat is amazing. Be sure to get a look at the plague doctor’s mask, my daughter’s favorite. Long ago, it was thought that bad smells would make one sick. Masks like this would be worn with potpourri in the beak protecting the wearer from plague.

This husband and wife team tools in California, ships internationally, and has an Etsy shop. More steampunk items can be found on their Facebook fan page. If you have a special request, Tom enjoys the challenge of a custom order. I like the simple elegance of the Celtic knot headband. This was such an interesting and fun shop to write up!