new week, new shop - akka design

Happy Monday! I am so excited to introduce you to akkadesign, the next shop in the "new week, new shop" series. Let's get straight to some pictures:


Love it? The creative force behind akka design is Laura, who was born in Northwestern Spain and currently lives in Dublin, Ireland. Her shop is chocked full of textile jewelry created from gorgeous fabrics, ribbons, and yarns. Laura describes her style as "vibrant, colorful, and fun." I think her style suits summer perfectly. For the time being, you will find mostly brooches and hair clips, but Laura assures me you will find a series of necklaces and bracelets coming soon. I can't wait.


After becoming fed up with having to drag out her sewing machine and set up her supplies each time she was in the mood to create, Laura carved out herself a little craft corner in her bedroom. Regardless of its size, it keeps all of her materials in one space and allows her to focus. Because she is dealing with limited space, Laura keeps her supplies tidy and organized - employing plenty of containers and keeping things color coordinated. Here is a glimpse into where her lovely pieces come to be.


I loved her response when I asked her to describe her workspace. She said, "As for the tidiness, I always say that I am tidier with my ideas than with my things." I was a little confused at first because her area looked pretty clean to me! However, she went on to explain she allows herself to take everything out and make a mess while she is in the middle of creating one of her pieces, but cleans up and puts it all way when complete. Good advice I should probably listen to!


Do you love Laura's work, but worried about high international shipping charges? No worries. Laura is offering FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING for a limited time. Don't miss out.

coming next week!

>daily blog giveaway
>all orders put in grand prize giveaway
>free gift with purchase

giveaway winner!

The Random Number Generator always works, but isn't quite as fun as actually picking a name out of a bowl. I wrote down each entry on a piece of paper and picked from a fun pitcher I picked up at a thrift store last weekend.

(Yes, I am wearing more plaid...)

And the winner is...

Congrats, Mandaleighta!! You will be receiving an email shortly. Thanks to everyone who played, and Lisa for offering this gorgeous giveaway! Don't forget to visit whimsyandink if you haven't already!

friday favorites.

Is it possible to have a favorite set of favorites? If so, this would be it! It really is a lovely bunch.

1. Kreativlink
2. tuttistudio
3. 3squares
4. onelifejewelry

giveaway reminder

Enter here. It only takes a quick comment!

affordable treats.

It's already Wednesday again, which means only two more days until the weekend and more affordable treats! Even if you only have 5 bucks (skip your Starbucks drink, bring in leftovers rather than buy lunch...) you can pick up a handmade treat for yourself or a friend.

$5 and Under

1. wildanimus
2. KisforCalligraphy
3. CraftyDad
4. smutopia

$10 and Under

1. simplesongdesigns
2. boygirlparty
3. PomLove
4. theboldbanana


$20 and Under

1. Cabin
2. dalinda
3. smallstump
4. SweetLoveVintage

in search of wall art.

I have quite a few blank walls in my apartment, and think it's time to fill up a few. I always go back and forth because I will be moving in a few months and don't want to put too much time or money into something that's going to be coming back down rather quickly. But, I see no reason to not pick up a few pieces, and maybe get creative and make a few myself.

Here are a few of the contenders that I am considering:

from Ork Posters
(This one reminds me of back home in California!)

from hijirik


from dazeychic
(Make sure to click and zoom to read this one!)

from farouche

from rollandtumblepress

I think I may end up getting one or two prints, and mix them up with some framed vintage maps and personal pictures.

I'd love to hear any opinions on the ones I've chosen so far, or options I haven't see yet! Post any links you might have - either from shops or pictures of your own home if you're willing to share!

new week, new shop - whimsyandink

Sorry for the lack of "friday favorites" last week. I was under the weather, but back up and running after a few nights of going to bed around 8pm. Nothing a little sleep can't fix! You can be assured "friday favorites" will be back this week.

Next up for the "new week, new shop" feature is whimsyandink. Lisa Rios fills whimsyandink with clutches, rings and earrings, and lots of screen printed treasures. She describes her style as fresh, feminine, and eclectic and I compltely agree. What initially drew me to whimsyandink was the use of color - both bold and subtle. The rosette earrings come in a rainbow of shades, and her clutches are made from really fun patterns. The screen printed journals and sacks are black on natural cream and kraft for a vintage feel. Prepare yourself to want to make a purchase or two!


As you can see, Lisa incorporates screen printing in so many of her lovely products. I was thrilled when she offered to show some pictures from this process for crafters out there like me who love the look, but have never tried it themselves. It's a delicate process that involves positioning the screen, applying the ink, and lifting the screen without smudging the image!


Like many, Lisa doesn't have a bright, airy studio with perfect storage and perfect lighting to make her creations. Instead you will find her scattered throughout her Southern Californian apartment - her sewing station taking over her dining, her screen printing and jewelry supplies dominating her living room, and all of the rest stashed in her bedroom closet. Despite not having the ideal studio, Lisa proves you can still have a gorgeous work space. Take a peak into where she creates.


Lovely, isn't it? Now for the best part. Lisa was kind enough to offer one of her screen printed sacks with a beautiful silhouette to one lucky reader. I already purchased one last week to hold a special little present. I love them!


To enter, simply leave a comment on this post. Let Lisa know what you think of her work. Pass on any advice for an up and coming Etsy shop. Share your favorite product from Lisa's shop. Its up to you! Entries will be accepted up until Thursday evening at 9pm EST and announced on Friday.