Interview with Cynthia Machata of Artisan Whimsy

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of corresponding with Cynthia Machata, Lead Editor for Artisan Whimsy: A Creative Bead Chat, asking about my work with freeform peyote, self-publishing, teaching and more. 

Artisan Whimsy is the brainchild of Melinda Orr, with the goal of 'bringing the handmade beading/jewelry community together in a place where newbie or skilled artisans could share and learn'.  The free online magazine definitely lives up to it's vision.

The content of these online magazines is more fluid than the mainstream publications we all already know and love.  A single issue may combine artist interviews (such as the one featuring yours truly, starting on page 78 in case you're curious), sneak peaks into artists' studios, lots of gorgeous eye candy for inspiration, and a variety of short tips and tutorials, including tips and techniques for beading, wirework, manipulating photos, improving one's blog and running a craft-based business.  They can even include embedded video tutorials. 

Interested in writing an article?  Consider submitting your idea!

 A little peak inside (I think the layout and design is lovely): 

In parting, I'll also add a shout out to Creative Spark, another free glossi edited by Hope Smitherman and produced by ZnetShows.  Especially if you have a love for crystals or sea glass. 


Do you have a favorite online beading magazine?  I'd love to hear. 

Premeire Issue of Creative Spark Online Magazine

free, online magazine by

Last month witnessed the launch of Creative Spark, a beautiful new online magazine (otherwise known as a glossi).  Designed and edited by Hope Smitherman and backed by Znet Shows, it features the works of thirteen designers and artists, including yours truly.

Talk about eye candy and inspiration!  The work and photography in here is gorgeous.  We were all challenged to respond to the theme "Rings and Bling" with a secondary inspiration of the changing of the season. It's fascinating to see the different interpretations.   And it's official - I'm in love with those cultured sea glass loops! 

The glossi is extremely image heavy, to the point that I had some trouble loading it on my iPad - but it was definitely worth hauling out the laptop.  So many wonderful ideas. 



Here are some sneak peaks into the interior:

lovely two page spread - these earrings make me think of summers spent at the lake

Bobbie Rafferty's Crystal Waves necklace is one of my favorites

One of my pieces, and my new artist photo (ack!)

The next issue of Creative Spark is scheduled for Winter 2013/2014 and will focus on Pearls. Oh la la!