Interview with Dmitry Saltykov of Diram's Wares

Interview with Dmitry Saltykov of Diram's Wares

Rico:
What's Your Name?

Dmitry Saltykov 


Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Dmitry Saltykov :

Most of my stores go by the name Diram, it's what some of my friends jokingly call me.

My first and biggest shop is Diram's Wares which focuses primarily on kitchen products, such as aprons, mugs, coasters and plates. Diram's Wares

The second shop I have is Diram's Travels which features pictures of Canada coast to coast (From Victoria, BC to St John's, NL) on postcards, canvas prints, postal stamps and posters.

Diram's Travels

Features pictures of Canada coast to coast (From Victoria, BC to St John's, NL) on postcards, canvas prints, postal stamps and posters.

iDiramStore

Features electronic cases for various iOS and Android devices.


Diram's Pillows

and Diram's Pillows which sells just pillows.



Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle? How Long did it take to achieve ProSeller status?

Dmitry Saltykov :
I have been on Zazzle since April 2012. I achieved Zazzle Pro status in August 2013.


Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Dmitry Saltykov :
I did not make a sale for two months after I started, but when that first sale finally came I realized that this is an opportunity I should not pass. Also being on the Zazzle forum and seeing how much effort people put into it really inspired me to work harder.


Rico:
How would you describe your design style?

Dmitry Saltykov :
I usually have floral and pattern designs, as well as nature and food photography.


Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Dmitry Saltykov :
I use GIMP for my art store, and my Xperia T (12mp) phone camera for my photography store.


Rico:
What makes your shop stand out from the rest?

Dmitry Saltykov :
My main store features hohloma, traditional Russian floral artwork, it's very beautiful and unique and pays homage to my heritage. My travel store has a lot of memories for the time when I got to see a good chunk of Canada.


Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Dmitry Saltykov :
Don't give up and don't be discouraged during slow times.


Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Dmitry Saltykov :
The forum has a lot of useful information and support for newcomers.


Rico:
Zazzle has helped many people meet goals that they otherwise wouldn’t have achieved. What has Zazzle helped you to achieve in your personal life?

Dmitry Saltykov :
Zazzle has allowed me to realize that it is not mandatory anymore to rely just on your traditional job income in this turbulent economy, which in turn gave me a piece of mind.


Rico:
Tell me 5 random things you want everyone to know about you?

Dmitry Saltykov :

I was born in Russia and lived there until I was 16.
I am fluent in both Russian and English.
The next language I want to tackle is Spanish.
I had a chance to travel Canada coast to coast.
I think tea is much better than coffee.


Rico:
Include links to 5 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Dmitry Saltykov :

Tea Biscuit Throw Pillow

Tea Biscuit Throw Pillow by DiramsWares
Shop for another pillow.

This is one of my favorite pillows, just picture how awesome it is to sleep on a cookie?

Modern Green Throw Pillow

Modern Green Throw Pillow by DiramsWares
See other throw pillows.

This is another pillow I really like. The color and the subtle ornament on it is beautiful. 

Hamburger Apron

Hamburger Apron by DiramsWares
Design your own customizable aprons at zazzle.com.

This apron would be a gift for barbecue lovers.

Maple Leaf Coffee Mugs

Maple Leaf Coffee Mugs by DiramsWares
View other Maple Mugs

This mug is just simple, artistic and Canadian. 

Tree and Wind Party Plate

Tree and Wind Party Plate by DiramsWares
See more Tree Plates at zazzle.com

This plate is very unique and artistic. It symbolizes the end of summer. 

Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online? (Facebook, Twitter, other blog or website)

Dmitry Saltykov :
I was on Facebook before, but no longer. I just recently started using Pinterest because it seems like a relatively simple photo sharing platform. I can be found on Pinterest



My Picks: 



Colorful Butterfly Napkin

Colorful Butterfly Napkin by DiramsWares
Look at more Colorful Napkins at zazzle

Lazy Pandas Mug

Lazy Pandas Mug by DiramsWares
Browse Lazy Mugs online at Zazzle.com

Double Dragon Dinner Plates

Double Dragon Dinner Plates by DiramsWares
Browse more Dragon Plates at Zazzle

Blue Bird Ornament Drink Pitcher

Blue Bird Ornament Drink Pitcher by DiramsWares
Browse other drink pitcher designs on Zazzle.

Pumpkin City Placemats

Pumpkin City Placemats by DiramsWares
Shop for another place mat.

Interview with Sarah of My little eden

Rico:
What's Your Name?


Sarah



Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Sarah :

My little eden



Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Sarah :
Almost 2 years



Rico:
How did you find Zazzle?

Sarah :
Via redbubble



Rico:
Are you a ProSeller?

Sarah :
Yes



Rico:
What type of Holiday product(s) do you sell the most of? (ex: t-shirts, mugs, electronics, etc.)

Sarah :
t-shirts, iphone cases



Rico:
What's your best selling Holiday Design?

Sarah :

 


Rudolph red-nosed reindeer girly pink t-shirt

Rudolph red-nosed reindeer girly pink t-shirt by Mylittleeden
More Christmas T-Shirts

Cute stylish Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer tailored with a touch of pink scarf uniquely designed christmas seasonal tee. Design and illustration by Sarah Trett. www.sarahtrett.com

Rico:
What is your favorite Holiday?

Sarah :
Summer



Rico:
What's your favorite Holiday tradition?

Sarah :
Putting out Santa's and reindeer snacks



Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Sarah :
Keep at it!



Rico:
What was your first sale (include link)?

Sarah :

 


Ballerina princess pink and auburn hair girl mug

Ballerina princess pink and auburn hair girl mug by Mylittleeden
Create unique custom printed coffee mugs on zazzle.

Cute originally designed mug for your special little Ballerina. Personalise with your own choice of name and message. Exclusively designed by Sarah Trett. Also available in purple colour with blonde hair dancer

Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Sarah :
Everything, I paint, draw, design on computer and even use clay!



Rico:
What is your favorite aspect about Zazzle?

Sarah :
The customisation



Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Sarah :
Nature



Rico:
Do you sell Holiday products all year or just in season?

Sarah :
All year!



Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Sarah :
Add more products and promote, promote, promote!



Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Sarah :
Look after my son!



Rico:
For most each product or design they create is special. What is your most favorite design and why (include link)?

Sarah :




Tawny Owl in the snow fine art card

Tawny Owl in the snow fine art card by Mylittleeden
See other Christmas Cards

Wildlife fine art card. Customise with your own message. Card reproduced from fine art watercolour and gouache painting by Sarah Trett. www.sarahtrett.com

Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Sarah :

Worked as a graphic designer for 15 years.

I love nature.

Moved from UK to Australia.

Love to paint and design.

Work day and night on zazzle for little reward!



Rico:
Include links to 3 of your favorite Holiday designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Sarah :

 


Tawny Owl in the snow fine art stamp

Tawny Owl in the snow fine art stamp by Mylittleeden
Design personalized postage stamps online at zazzle.com

Fine art owl in watercolour took me almost 2 months to paint feel it deserves some much needed exposure.

Christmas deer fine art card

Christmas deer fine art card by Mylittleeden
Create a card designs on Zazzle

Fine art deer arcylic painting I love the little one trying to copy the parent.

Angel of peace blue Christmas stamp

Angel of peace blue Christmas stamp by Mylittleeden
Design your own USPS photo stamps from Zazzle.

Cute original artwork to sent some peace this Christmas

Rico:
If you could purchase any Holiday item (from another Zazzle store) what would it be? Why?

Sarah :

I don't think I would. I have too much of my own I still would like to buy first. If I need something then I make it up, that's what I love about zazzle.



Rico:
Zazzle has helped many people meet goals that they otherwise wouldn’t have achieved. What has Zazzle helped you to achieve in your personal life?

Sarah :
Getting my artwork out from the cupboard and into people's hands in whatever form that may take, always a delight to sell something.



Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online? (Facebook, Twitter, other blog or website)

Sarah :

Twitter

Facebook

Redbubble

Squidoo

Interview with Dana of Bedazzled By Zazzle

 Bedazzled By Zazzle



Rico:
What's Your Name?

Dana

Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Dana :

Bedazzled By Zazzle -

Cool Designs For Everyone ... The name seemed pretty accurate for how *I* felt about Zazzle when I came across it.



Rico:
What type of product do you sell the most of?

Dana :

Best selling items are invitations, stickers, tshirts, mugs, business cards... but I sell a big variety of product types.



Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Dana :

Since late 2009.



Rico:
How did you find Zazzle?

Dana :

I was originally at Cafe Press and didn't like their pricing structure and other limitations, so decided it was time for a change. Found Zazzle and was totally "Bedazzled"...



Rico:
Are you a ProSeller?
If yes, how long from the time you open a shop until you made it to ProSeller?

Dana :

Yes I am a ProSeller, I made it to first level ProSeller about 2-3 months after joining. But that was thanks to lots of sales right around Christmas that first year.



Rico:
What made you decide to open your own store?

Dana :

I've always been creative and looking for ways to earn income from that while I stay home with my kids, who were both born micro-preemies. I love the potential Zazzle offers with the flexibility of time and being able to creative whatever random thing I am in the mood for that particular day.



Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Dana :

To put designs on as many product types as possible. Not to limit things based on my own preference, because you just never know what someone else might love and buy.



Rico:
What was your first sale (include link)?

Dana : 

 

Decorative Damask Pattern Name Address Bookplate Round Sticker

Decorative Damask Pattern Name Address Bookplate Round Sticker by BedazzledByZazzle
Design your own personalized photo stickers online at zazzle.com

I sold 50 sheets of this damask sticker set to a - very appreciated - customer in the United Kingdom. :) I was more than thrilled.



Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Dana :

I'm not locked into just one thing, and even try to find new things to create from constantly. I use several graphics and 3D programs; like photoshop, illustrator, artrage, poser... I take photographs and sometimes modify them extensively or not, and even purchase licensed art to use from other talented designers as well.



Rico:
What is your favorite aspect about Zazzle?

Dana :

This is a hard one because I really love so much about it.... Great community, income, etc. But I especially love lately how many new items they have released to design on: Clocks (woohoo), cake toppers, luggage tags... And it seems like something else is always just around the corner.



Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Dana :

If I had to pick one single thing, I would say my family. Without my husband and kids being so supportive and even helpful in creating at times, I would not be able to do this like I do.



Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Dana :

I do other web work as well - hosting and web design, own and run two digital scrapbook stores, stock photo, but I try to fit as much Zazzle time in as possible each week. And sometimes just have marathon days where I try to get as much done in one day as I can.



Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Dana :

Be persistant and patient... Do what you can, when you can and eventually you will start to see the results from it. The best thing is that it is residual and what you do can pay off over and over again through the years.



Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Dana :

Be a mom and wife, homeschool my two kids, enjoy my family, read. :)



Rico:
For most each product or design they create is special. What is your most favorite design and why (include link)?

Dana :

Psychedelic Spiral Neon Decorative Abstract Art Throw Pillow

Psychedelic Spiral Neon Decorative Abstract Art Throw Pillow by BedazzledByZazzle
See other throw pillows.

I just love this fractal design, the colors, the composition, everything about it. I have it on quite a few different product types, I even order business cards with it for myself.



Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Dana :

Funny, this is the hardest question yet...

My kids were born two years apart, but both weighed 1 lb and 3 oz.

I love love love pens, and these days my wacom tablet and pens even more.

I'd pick peanut butter over chocolate any day.

I bite my nails, and am always trying to break that bad habit for good.

I have insomnia pretty often and do a lot of design creation at night because of it.



Rico:
Include links to 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Dana : 

 

Happy Thanksgiving - Owl and Pumpkin Greeting Card

Happy Thanksgiving - Owl and Pumpkin Greeting Card by BedazzledByZazzle
View other Beautiful Cards

This design is one of my favorites, I used a digital scrapbook kit I created to cluster together lots of Fall and Thanksgiving style embellishments and left a spot for a customer to add their photograph. I have sold many of these cards, and its been featured on the Thanksgiving page at Zazzle.





Adorable Squirrel Eating Peanut Photo Mouse Pad

Adorable Squirrel Eating Peanut Photo Mouse Pad by BedazzledByZazzle
Design a unique custom mouse pad.

The photo on this design brings back lots of fun memories for me, and I just love the detail I was able to capture too. We took the kids out to the park with a bag of peanuts and before long they were throwing some out to the squirrels. The squirrels were brave enough to come right up and take an unopened peanut from a hand several times.





Personal Chef Veggie Vegetables Food Cook Art Business Cards

Personal Chef Veggie Vegetables Food Cook Art Business Cards by BedazzledByZazzle
Browse other Bedazzled Business Cards

I drew all of the vegetables on this business card design and really loved how it turned out, made me wish I was a personal chef myself. I'm really happy its been a popular seller for me too.



Rico:
If you could purchase ANY item (from someone else) what would it be? Why?

Dana : 

 

Nomads of the Mystic Dunes Fairy Unicorn Poster

Nomads of the Mystic Dunes Fairy Unicorn Poster by robmolily
Make your own large poster at Zazzle.

Wow, there are so many talented designers at Zazzle... I probably have a list a mile long of things I have seen and love. But if I could buy any one thing right now it would be this for my daughter.



Rico:
Zazzle has helped many people meet goals that they otherwise wouldn’t have achieved. What has Zazzle helped you to achieve in your personal life?

Dana :

Zazzle is just one more important way I get to work from home and be creative at the same time.



Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online? (Facebook, Twitter, other blog or website)

Dana :

Facebook

BedazzledByZazzle.com

Twitter

Interview with Erin Cooper of ShadoWind Original Art By Erin Cooper

 Erin Cooper


Rico:
What's Your Name?

Erin Cooper

Rico:
List your shop(s) - 

Erin Cooper :

ShadoWind Original Art By Erin Cooper

Most of my art focuses on the fantasy genre, but I also enjoy making animal and wildlife art. I have been going by the name Shadowind online since sometime around high school, I like the name as it evokes an imagery in my mind of what you would see if you could visualize the movement of the wind. I imagine would look similar to the way rippling water reflects and shines and casts shadows on things. The interplay between shadow and light fascinates me. I also love ravens which with their black color look like a little shadow on the wind.



Rico:
What type of product do you sell the most of?

Erin Cooper :

I sold a lot of my 2012 dragon calendars this year, besides that I think my greeting cards probably sell the most.



Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Erin Cooper :

I believe it’s been about 3 or 4 years.



Rico:
How did you find Zazzle?

Erin Cooper :

I found Zazzle through another artist and friend of mine who I met when I was attending school at the University of Saint Francis.

Here are his two shops: Tee Freak - Unique and Fun T-Shirts Sketchy Tees - Unique and Fun T-Shirts



Rico:
Are you a ProSeller?
If yes, how long from the time you open a shop until you made it to ProSeller?

Erin Cooper :

Yes, I think I got my pro seller status sometime at the beginning of last year. But I don’t remember when exactly.



Rico:
What made you decide to open your own store?

Erin Cooper :

At the time I already had a shop with cafepress, but It never sold anything and I never did much with it advertising or anything.

I liked the looks of zazzle's and I liked that they had some unique products that looked like fun to design (like shoes and skateboards).

I wanted a fresh start with new artwork at and a new shop so I thought I would try it out, I sold something the first week I opened my shop which I found very encouraging so I've been Zazzling ever since!



Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Erin Cooper :

To use as many good/accurate keywords for products as possible when posting a product.



Rico:
What was your first sale (include link)?

Erin Cooper :

 

"Together we are One" Unicorn postcard was my first sale to someone from France!

Together we are One PostCard by Shadowind_ErinCooper
Design unique photo postcard at zazzle.com

Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Erin Cooper :

Most often I will draw a design out on regular white computer paper, and then scan it in and color it using Photoshop. I will sometimes work with solely traditional medium like color pencil or acrylic paint and then just scan or take a photo.



Rico:
What is your favorite aspect about Zazzle?

Erin Cooper :

I like how easy it is to design and post products!



Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Erin Cooper :

Many things inspire me sometimes just little everyday situations or things. Other great artists certainly, to name a few I love the works of Susan Seddon Boulet, art by imaginism’s Bobby chiu, Josephine Wall paintings, and sculptures by M. Pena… and many other great fantasy artists. However I am also influenced by wonderful books I may be reading or by dreams I might have, or nature herself. My fourlegged friends are often inspiration to me, as are my friends and family.



Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Erin Cooper :

It can very quite a lot depending on my mood, how inspired I feel, the whether, how distracted I get by other things during the week. It can be anywhere from a couple hours every day all week long, to getting on and spending almost all day designing or on zazzle creating products a few days in a row until I am burned out on it.



Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Erin Cooper :

Try to stay active online, even if it’s just to get on and comment on other products you like or add a little update on your main page and change the featured products for the season it is. Advertise as much as you can by joining other art websites and linking back to zazzle, places like deviant art and forums and groups. When you comment on others art be very genuine, try to pick out what it is you like about the art and why and say so instead of a simple “this is great!”   Also never forget to always keep learning!



Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Erin Cooper :

When I am not drawing if the weather is nice I like to be outside, I love to hike in the woods, and garden. If the weather is not nice (snow and cold) I like to read, mostly fantasy novels but some new age and spirituality type stuff occasionally too.
I also hang out with and take care of my four legged furred and or feathered family including my horse, Cricket.



Rico:
For most each product or design they create is special. What is your most favorite design and why (include link)? 
 

Erin Cooper :

I try to come up with new designs all the time and the more I post the more favorites I end up having...but at the moment I think my most favorite design is my "learning the ways" dragon design

Learning the Ways~ mug by Shadowind_ErinCooper
Make a personalized mug on zazzle.

I think its one of my favorites now, because I got this design on one of my own hoodies for Christmas and it turned out really well and is so comfortable, I wear it all the time. I also like the mystery and magic surrounding the little dragon and how he seems more like an intelligent character rather than just a fire breathing monster. I try to put a lot of thought into the creatures I draw and design and what their stories might be behind them so they are more interesting to look at.



Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Erin Cooper :

I am always trying to become a better artist and person

I can’t stand people who disrespect or are outright cruel to animals

I try my best to live in the moment

I am a really quiet person and very introspective

I would like to live in and earthship someday



Rico:
Include links to 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Erin Cooper :

 

Learning the Ways~dragon shirt

Learning the Ways~dragon shirt by Shadowind_ErinCooper
Create your own personal t-shirts online at zazzle.com

I have this one on a dark blue hoodie I got at Christmas and it prints out great! I’m going to be doing the dragon in different colors soon too because my brother wanted this same design with a green dragon. I like to think of dragons as having their own intelligence and culture rather than just being scary vicious monsters. In my opinion dragons like many real reptilian creatures sometimes get a lot of bad press they don't deserve and are often cast as the enemy or villain in stories so in my work i try to depict them a little differently. This dragon is study on different types of magic specifically crystal gazing.





Different! Upside Down Owl Greeting Card

Different! Upside Down Owl Greeting Card by Shadowind_ErinCooper
Get unique custom made cards online at zazzle.com.

A lot can be said of being proud to be different and unique! I believe in keeping an open mind at all times and find value in what many call weird or unusual, i think we should celebrate these sorts of differences don't you? This little owl design is and adorable way to do just that!





Toadstools~ jar candy jars

Toadstools~ jar by Shadowind_ErinCooper
See more Toadstool Candy Jars

I just love how these mushrooms turned out, I see mushrooms when I walk in the woods all the time and they are just fun to look at and draw aren’t they? Plus they are surrounded in faery lore and mythology. I watched this program about fungi that told how certain shelf mushrooms can be used to clean up oil spills. I think fungi are fantastic and under rated, people are leery of them because they have been used as psychedelics but I think everyone should learn a little more about them!




Rico:
If you could purchase ANY item (of someone else’s) what would it be? Why?

Erin Cooper :

 

The Great Feline Mouse Pads

The Great Feline by Philip_Straub
Create own mousepad on zazzle.

There are lots of other zazzle artists designs and products I like a lot, it would be really hard to choose just one!  If you really want to see all the stuff I like check out my wishlist/likes on my profile page :D ;)



Rico:
Zazzle has helped many people meet goals that they otherwise wouldn’t have achieved. What has Zazzle helped you to achieve in your personal life?

Erin Cooper :

Well currently I don't have a steady job doing anything else. I do freelance art jobs when I can find them, but Zazzle has helped me to earn some cash since graduating and to feel like I am continuing my art career even though I am otherwise unemployed.



Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online? (Facebook, Twitter, other blog or website)

Erin Cooper :

Deviant Art

Twitter

Facebook

Elfwood (this one doesn’t get updated much)

Webs page

 

Rico:
Anything else you'd like to share? 

Erin Cooper :

Readers please check out my friend’s shop too if you have time! Tee Freak - Unique and Fun T-Shirts


To see more of Erin's wonderful art visit ShadoWind Original Art By Erin Cooper

Interview with Kathryn Strick of KAStrick Designs

 Kathryn Strick of KAStrick Designs

Rico:
What's Your Name?

Kathryn Strick

Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Kathryn Strick :

KAStrick Designs


Rico:
What type of product do you sell the most of?

Kathryn Strick :

I am placing my designs on clothing & accessories, mugs, and laptop sleeves primarily. Zazzle is bringing out new items all the time, so I will be looking for those items where my designs can best be presented. Right now I am focusing on messenger bags and place mats.


Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Kathryn Strick :

Two months


Rico:
Are you a ProSeller?

Kathryn Strick :

Not yet


Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Kathryn Strick :

The information on the forums has been very helpful for marketing and networking.


Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Kathryn Strick :

My Toshiba laptop and MandalaMaker 2.0 software. For some designs I have used Paint.net as well as the texturizing available through Microsoft Word of all places!


Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Kathryn Strick :

I am inspired by nature, various cultural and spiritual influences. I lived in Colorado for a time in the 80's, so the colors of the southwest and Native American design are a big influence. Poetry and song lyrics will often come to mind while I am creating a design.


Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Kathryn Strick :

Since I am just starting out while working part-time, raising a family, and doing volunteer work, probably 10-20 hours a week. I try to create one design every couple of days, and then place the designs on the items for my store.


Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Kathryn Strick :

Don't compare your artistic work with others. Stay true to your inner muse. There will be a niche just for you.


Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Kathryn Strick :

I am a professional counselor & therapist using Reiki and other energy therapies; cooking & baking; an avid reader of science fiction and suspense novels; a hospice volunteer; enjoying time with my husband and teenage sons.


Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Kathryn Strick :

I've stood in both oceans,

hiked down Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point in the Grand Canyon,

would move to Montana in a heartbeat,

never stopped looking for a horse on Christmas morning,

and yes I do believe we are not alone in this vast Universe.


Rico:
Include links to 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design. 
 

Kathryn Strick :




Red Star Kachina 2012 Magnets

Red Star Kachina 2012 by KAStrickDesigns
More Digital Magnets

There are Native American prophecies about the appearance of the Red & Blue Star Kachinas signaling the transition from the 4th to the 5th world. Kachinas are supernatural beings who bestow health, happiness, and long life upon the people.





Up up and Away 2012 Mug

Up up and Away 2012 by KAStrickDesigns
Make a unique personalized coffee mug online at Zazzle.

Clare Goodwin chose this design for her Center of the Circle Newsletter in Deceber 2011, when I was chosen artist of the month. Alan Goodwin is the developer of the MandalaMaker 2.0 software that I use to create my designs. I had only been using the software for a month, so I was very pleased to have been noticed!






Courage 2012 sticker

Courage 2012 by KAStrickDesigns
Browse more Mandala Stickers

This is a richly colored, strong mandala, featuring a central yantra. A yantra is used as a meditative focus, and while you see it in two dimensions, it is actually a multidimensional structure for accessing higher consciousness.


Rico:
One of My Favorite Designs from you shop: 
 




Dreamcatcher 2012 neck tie

Dreamcatcher 2012 by KAStrickDesigns
Browse more Digitalart Ties

Dream-catchers filter out bad dreams according to Native American lore. They are burned to nothingness in the rising sun the next morning.Rico: I love dream catchers! Love this design and colors.


Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online?

Kathryn Strick :

My designs are available through Fine Art America as canvas and acrylic prints, framed and matted, or art cards.

KAStrick Designs Fine Art

My Facebook Fan Page is KAStrick Designs.

KAStrick Designs Facebook Fan Page
 

Rico:
Anything else you'd like to share?

Kathryn Strick :

I am looking at other formats to have my designs printed on tiles, cloth, and ceramic dinnerware. There are local art shows coming up that I am exploring as venues for getting my designs known here at home.

When I was in high school we took an interest survey for career planning. My results said I should be either an artist or a forest ranger. I spent the majority of my adult life in science, education, and technology. I'd like to find the fulfillment of my artistic side in this last part of my life.

Interview with Dalia Tenenbaum, aka yarijik

 Dalia Tenenbaum, aka yarijik

Rico:
What's Your Name?

My name is Dalia Tenenbaum, aka yarijik

Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Beautiful Things for Beautiful People gift shop

"Beautiful things for beautiful people" is all about photography, mainly nature and animals from all over the world. Some of them where taken by me and some - by my spouse.

Graphiking gift shop

"Graphiking" is about Illustrations. I love to draw and this is where I let my creativity burst out. There are monsters, holidays illustrations, romance and loads of other cute images.

Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Since 2009, if I'm correct, but I really started seriously using it only a year ago.

Rico: Are you a ProSeller?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

I am and it happened only recently... i guess you cant really get there if it's not a goal.

Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Do, do, do, create, create, create!

Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

It is mainly a Photoshop for my photos; Pen and paper + Illustrator for my graphics.

Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Nature, animals, special events like annual holidays, kids and their toys; cartoons and colors.

Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

It is usually depends on the everyday events. Up untill now I would spent an hour or two a week... and that was the best case scenario :)

A few months ago I became a full time freelance illustrator and it gave me an opportunity to invest some more time in Zazzle too, so right now it stand on 2-3 hours a day, not including image creation itself.

Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Read the forum before you do anything. It can save a newbie a lot of extra and unnecessary work in the future.

Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

I love watching movies!!! And usually I watch something while creating or uploading. Also I love traveling and hiking; I live in Israel, it's a beautiful county and I try walk it as much as possible.

Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

1. I always look at the full half of the glass.

2. I have a natural blond-reddish hair.

3. I love to figure skate.

4. I want to illustrate a children book next year.

5. I prefer to be.

Rico:
List 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Dalia Tenenbaum :

Illustration of a Cute round creature with flowers Cat Water Bowl

Illustration of a Cute round creature with flowers by graphiking
Browse Creature Pet Bowls

I created this one as an exercise to see what can be possibly created from a simple circle. Can't help it, I think this creature is absolutely adorable, it makes me smile each time I see it.




Singing chick coffee mugs

Singing chick by graphiking
View more Singing Mugs

This cute singing bird is one of the first images I ever uploaded to Zazzle. It;s just so positive and cute!!!



Jack o’lantern with dry tree and a moon bag

Jack o’lantern with dry tree and a moon by graphiking
View other Jack Bags

This Jack o'lantern with a dry tree was created,obviously, for Halloween. Somehow it looks just right to me.

Rico:
This is one of my personal favorite designs from your shop



Mushrooms and blue butterfly t-shirt

Mushrooms and blue butterfly by graphiking
Join one of the biggest artist affiliate programs

Rico: This is adorable! I love the colors.

Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online?

Dalia Tenenbaum :

You can find me on Weekly Doodles Blog , where I write about illustration and report y development as one.

See my additional work on Flicker

This is my ShutterStock gallery Shutterstock

And of course, the Twitter

Interview with Shelley Kuhn of Designs by Shell

Shelley Kuhn of Designs by Shell

Rico:
What's Your Name?

Shelley Kuhn

Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Shelley Kuhn :
 
Designs by Shell

My Store is Designs by Shell I chose the name just simply because it represents me and my artwork. I’m not sure I really have a specific theme for my store but I would say my designs cover everything from cute and stylish to whimsical and fun along with a nature/floral theme. I love to create designs for birthdays, holidays and weddings. Things like fancy cakes and cupcakes, flirty flowers, and expressive cartoon animals. I also dabble in amateur photography and have sold many of my favourite flower (hydrangea) pictures.

Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Shelley Kuhn :
I started at Zazzle in the fall of 2008.

Rico: Are you a ProSeller?

Shelley Kuhn :
I am a ProSeller. I reached this level just over a year ago. It did take some time and a lot of creating to get to this point.

Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Shelley Kuhn :
The best advice I received when I was just starting out was to never delete designs or products that you don’t think will sell. You never know who will be interested in them. I have found this to be true and have sold products that I really wanted to delete but am now glad I didn’t. I was also advised to create new designs daily or at least as often as possible, the more you have in your store the more opportunity for sales.

Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Shelley Kuhn :
To create my designs I draw everything on my Dell Tablet with a digital pen. I use a paint program called Sumo Paint. For my photography I simply use my digital camera. ( All you need is a steady hand and a good eye)

Rico:
Who or what inspires you?

Shelley Kuhn :
I am inspired by many things but especially nature, flowers and my love of the outdoors.

Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Shelley Kuhn :
I spend about 4 hrs. a day on Zazzle. This includes marketing my designs as well.

Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Shelley Kuhn :
If I was to give someone who is just starting out on Zazzle my advice it would be first of all don’t expect sales over night. Create good quality designs and lots of them and the sales will come. Don’t forget your tags, this is so important in order for your products to be found by the search engines and for your potential customers to find you.

Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Shelley Kuhn :
When I’m taking a break from my work I love to spend time with my husband and family. Going for walks, going for coffee, working out at the gym, reading.

Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you? 

Shelley Kuhn :
 
Five random things about me…
I love to sing and I’m on a worship team
I don’t eat red meat
I love chocolate (almost any kind)
Like to try new recipes
Fall is my favourite season

Rico:
List 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Shelley Kuhn :
 

Roaring Good Time Party Invitation

Roaring Good Time Party Invitation by seashell2
Design a custom printed announcement at zazzle

I love this cute animal birthday party invitation, I just had fun drawing that cute little tiger face, animals can be made with the cutest expressions!

Designer Cakes Business Cards

Designer Cakes by seashell2
More Designer cake Business Cards

This elegant designer cake business card is one of my popular ones. I love the soft color combinations that I used. It seems others like it too!

Best Music Teacher Coffee Mugs

Best Music Teacher by seashell2
Browse other Music Mugs

This music teacher mug is one of my simpler designs featuring black musical notes on a soft yellow background. It’s been a good seller for me!

Rico:
This is one of my personal favorite designs from your shop 

Halloween Cat Cupcake Christmas Tree Ornament

Halloween Cat Cupcake by seashell2
Browse Halloween Ornaments

Cute Cupcake Halloween - A cute faced cat cupcake in an orange cupcake liner. Halloween candies around the base. A border of stripes in green and orange. 

Rico:
I just fell in love with this design as soon as I saw it. I love the colors. The cat is adorable and the composition is great!

Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online?

Shelley Kuhn :
 
Shells Zazzle Journal
Twitter @ShellsDesigns2
Facebook

Interview with Peter Guckes aka Greendeer

Peter Guckes aka Greendeer










Rico:
What's Your Name?
 
Peter Guckes

Rico:
List your shop(s) -

Peter Guckes
I have one shop on zazzle, greendeer

Rico:
How long have you been at Zazzle?

Peter Guckes
I joined zazzle in february, so I am rather new to this. This may be the reason I didn’t sell much yet, which means I am far from being a ProSeller. Still hope to make it one day.

Rico:
What's the best advise you got when you were starting out?

Peter Guckes
When I started at zazzle, I thought all I had to do was upload my designs and wait for the sales. In the forum I found out that it is a lot of work and you have to promote to get noticed. The people in the forum are so helpful, it is amazing!

Rico:
What medium/tools do you use to create your designs?

Peter Guckes
I make my drawings with a paintbrush and ink and add the colour digitally. I do other things, too but for the store I decided to stay with this style of illustrations.

Rico:
Who or what inspires you?
 
Peter Guckes
Inspiration is not a problem – I just make pictures of my fellow animals here in the wood and put them on t-shirts – who knows where ideas come from anyway? It is a rather mysterious process …

Rico:
How much time a week to you spend on Zazzle?

Peter Guckes
I spend as much time on zazzle as possible, still as I don’t sell much I have to do something for a living. But a few hours every day are usual for me.

Rico:
What's the best advise you can give someone just starting out on Zazzle?

Peter Guckes
My advice to new zazzlers is to be patient. I had no idea how big this is when I started. Thousands of shops, billions of products. It takes very very much time to get noticed and I’m not there yet, so it may be better not to take my advice and ask a more successful shopkeeper ;-)

Rico:
What do you like to do when you are not creating art?

Peter Guckes
I don’t draw animals all the time, I am a deer, so I do deer things like roaming the wood, eating leaves, belling, that kind of occupations …

Rico:
Tell me 5 random things everyone should know about you?

Peter Guckes
Being asked for things everyone should know about me confuses me. I am not a person everyone needs to know about, I’m just a simple green animal. I’d like many people to know I do illustrations and have a zazzle store (which anyone who reads this might have guessed by know), I also do other things like photography and play music (sometimes), You won’t find me on facebook and I am left-hooved.

Rico:
Include links to 3 of your favorite designs you want me to feature. Tell me something about each design.

Peter Guckes
Picking 3 favorite designs isn't easy, as all of those creatures mean a lot to me, so don't be upset if you're not included, folks:

Gotowork coffee mug

gotowork by greendeer

This is one of the first animals I did in this style, long before I found out about zazzle. The simplicity and expression make it still one of my favourite.

Yeti t shirt

yeti by greendeer

The yeti is a close friend who always helped ma out when i got into snow trouble

Porcupine t shirts

porcupine by greendeer

This shirt got a TBA (what ever that is), I’m quite proud of the porcupine drawing as it has that quiet madness I was going for...

Rico:
Where else can our readers find you online? 

Peter Guckes

Who ever likes my work might want to have a look into my blog at deer prudence where you can read little stories about these creatures.