Pagan Team Challenge 2013

VOTING IS OPEN UNTIL APRIL 14, 2013 

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE!!!

We kick off the new year with a team challenge. The theme for this challenge is 'Your Pagan Way'. What that means is that team members are to create something that embodies their pagan-ness. It may be who they call upon, what they most admire in nature, or who knows what might come from this theme.
Guaranteed, this will be a unique and beautiful collection of pagan 'style'.
As entries are submitted, they will be posted here. After the deadline and all entries are in, we will begin the voting. Voting will be in mid March.

ENTRY # 1 By Ramona Friggasdotter and in her shop Urd Handicrafts.

"Brisingamen", Freyja's necklace of desire

 

This is what Ramona has to say about the creation of her piece~

Full Persian 6in1 is definitely one of the most beautiful chainmaille weaves. It is a rope type weave made of lots of stacked rings, looking similar to a Viking wire weaving, and it is a great choice for jewelry because of its thick, tight appearance.

Because of its similarity with Viking knit, we made a necklace inspired by the most famous necklace from Norse tradition - Brisingamen, the necklace of desire owned by Freyja (Freya), Goddess of love, fertility and beauty, also connected to war and death of fallen heroes. The word Brísingamen comes from Old Norse brisinga "flaming, glowing" and men "jewelry, ornament", and it was probably made of gold and amber.

Our Norse-inspired chainmaille necklace is a unique, deluxe, heavy piece of jewelry made of silver-plated copper rings, tightly weaved to make a Full Persian chain that is 7 mm thick. It is adorned with a huge rectangular pendant made of polished red jasper.

ENTRY # 2 is from leighswiccanboutique

Elemental Power Stone

This is what Mandi has to say about her piece~

These Stones are very powerful. You can feel their energy!While in a state of Meditation Hold your stones lightly in your hand and you can actually feel them pulsate, or tingle once they have been attuned to you. The stones themselves sometimes become very warm when you are working with them. I can state this fact as being true from my own personal Experience with these stones. In fact while I was photographing a previous set that I sold here on Etsy upon request, the screen on my camera had these little moving spots on it all around the area of the stones when I had zoomed in on them, actually detecting their energy field. I have not attuned these stones. I only worked with them during the design process.
Basic Info on the stones:These stones are found at the base of a natural pyramid mount in the center of the continental USA, and are the same type of rock, having the same properties. Kansas Pop Rocks usually come in pairs, a smoother stone which has Yin or female energy and is referred to as the female, and a rougher stone that has Yang or masculine energy and is referred to as the male. Kansas Pop Rocks are excellent for balancing energy and polarities of all kinds. They are used a lot in energy healing and psychic healing to release blockages. They are also used a lot to balance the chakras and align them. They are also excellent for grounding excess energies, grounding people who are feeling "spacey", and for shielding. In the both the household plant pots and out in nature, Kansas Pop Rocks are used to promote plant growth. Kansas Pop Rocks are also used in healing arthritis, back pain, general healing, regeneration of cells, adrenal glands, chronic fatigue, and physical energy.

ENTRY # 3 is from Elizabeth from NaturaPlumaDesigns

Natural Birch Bark Mask with Purple Flowers and Moss

This is what Elizabeth has to say about her piece~

This unique mask is made from natural birch bark which has naturally fallen from a birch tree in my yard. It has been carefully cut to fit the face, and eye holes have been burned into the bark. Dried purple flowers trail upward to a point at the top of the mask. Dried springy green moss is affixed to the base of the flowers, and in spots just underneath the flowers as they come to the top of the mask. The flowers were part of a bouquet that I dried in my dehydrator, and the dried moss was purchased at a craft store. Twine string acts as a ribbon to tie the mask together. The mask has been sprayed with a light coat of sealant to prevent breakage and decay.
This beautiful mask is wearable art. It can be displayed or worn depending on your preference.

You can also read her blog about this mask and others.

ENTRY # 4 is from Moon'sCraft's from MoonsCraftsUK

Pendulum in Oak

This pendulum is crafted from oak and depicts the wheel of the year in pyrography. At the end of each of the eight points which represent the eight sabbats or pagan celebratory festivals are different coloured rhinestones.

This pendulum has been lightly varnished to ensure the integrity of the design, however the top has been left unvarnished to allow the energy to be charged and to flow. 

The pendulum is attached to the cord with a handmade copper spiral, which connects to the crystal and moonstone beads. The centrepiece of these beads is a single spiral of life in silver to represent the cycles of life, the ebb and flow. 

Finally the pendulum is finished with a grey silk silver cord and finished a large tibetan silver Triquetra representing the power of three. 

A stunning pendulum.

All Moon's crafts pieces are ethically foraged and created in the UK entirely by hand. No stencils are used for the art work and all art is original. Each piece is magically correct and researched to ensure all energy within the piece can be utilised spcifically and magically. 

ENTRY # 5 by Pamela Kaylor from inkleing 

Labyrinth Walk Pagan Prayer Beads 

 

Labyrinth Walk Pagan Prayer beads can be a useful tool for meditation or focusing spiritual energies. This set is comprised of: 9 6mm Serpentine, 9 6mm Yellow Jade and 9 6mm Peach Aventurine with tiny daisy beads and 4 beautiful pieces of Yellow Flower Jade. This set begins with a Spiral Goddess charm and ends with a Labyrinth charm with tiny peridot bead . The total length is 16”. The more you use prayer beads, the more they feel at home in your hand, and bring your mind to the spiritual and contemplative. Give them a try!

Natural gemstone beads also help us make a connection to the earth itself. This link opens us to the Web of Life, the positive energy of Nature, and to the Divine. Using prayer beads joins us to an ancient spiritual tradition, and sets us on a new path of discovery. As we use prayer beads, each individual bead links us to our fellow spiritual travelers.

Yellow Jade is a stone of joy and happiness

Peach or Apricot Aventurine gently increases the energy, help with decision-making and can boost creativity.

Serpentine is an earthing stone that aids meditation and spiritual exploration.

Peridot assists in rebirth and renewal of all kinds. Peridot also brings abundance and prosperity. It also assists in finding what is lost, and strengthens ESP abilities

Flower Jade ~ Nephrite Jade from New Zealand~ Maori appreciation of jade centers on these features patterns that seem to evoke images of forests, rivers and clouds. 

 ENTRY # 6  is from faeriewise and her shop EarthMoonandStars'  

 Green Man Embroidered and Quilted Wall Hanging 

 

Here are the lyrics to a favorite song, and what helped inspire me as I listened to it while creating this piece :

Noon of the Solstice by Damh the Bard

In times long past
Lived a Man of green,
And his footsteps brought life wherever he'd been.
In the deepest wildwood
Was the place he was seen,
And the people did love
And protect him.
And they saw his face change,
With the turn of the Wheel
Of the Seasons,
They heard his voice sing.

(Chorus)
I'm the Horned God,
I'm the face in the trees,
I'm the breath of the wind that rustles the leaves,
I'm the Green Man
In the wildwood I roam,
Cernunnos, I'm Pan and I'm Herne.

I shall be as the Dark Holly King,
Darkness and cold
In my cloak I will bring,
And on Winter's nights
To me you will sing,
Till the air around me starts changing,
And on the noon of the solstice
I'll give up my crown,
To the Light
And the Mighty Oak King.

All Summer long
I shall rule just and fair,
Bring your crops to fruit
With the light that I share,
With fire and water,
From earth into air,
But the Wheel it keeps
Steadily turning.
And on the noon of the Solstice
I'll give up my crown,
To the cold and the Dark Holly King.

T'is now modern times
And the Summer is here,
The Winter has gone
And the air it is clear,
On a fine day I walked
Through a woods I live near,
When a battle I spied
Through a clearing,
Two giants of leaves,
One light and one dark,
Even now the Wheel it is turning!

STAY TUNED...... I think we have our last entry, dead line for Challenge submissions is just a few days away....VOTING WILL Begin shortly after.
 

Beltane Fire Challenge

The Pagan Team on Etsy was challenged to creat an item in their medium!

As one of the Fire Festivals nears, turn your energy to the coming of the May Queen and the conception of a new year to come!

Brenda of HowlingCaterpillars challenges you to create a representation of the Fires of Beltane!

Enjoy the entries below, read the great descriptions and select your favorite by voting in our poll to the right! The winner will have an interview posted to the bolg, or select the next challenge theme and timeline!
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From LeighsWiccanBotique:

Beltane Floral Photo Locket Scented Wreath

What a wonderful Wreath to Celebrate the Season with. This is also an Etsy Pagan Team Beltane Challenge Piece!

This Beautiful wreath I created is truly one of a kind. I love to do these pieces for several reasons.
1. They are always bright and cheerful no matter what the season is.
2. They smell great!
3. I get to use up a lot of my old stock beads on them hehehe.

This large wreath is very special though because it is a keepsake piece. The center features a beautiful vintage golden locket to display pictures of your family, kids, grand kids, or that special someone in.

The out side of this wreath contains an assortment of artificial flowers like Lily's, Carnations, Pink Roses, and Beautiful glittery green leaves. Amongst the flowers I have done bead work, containing gemstones as well on the outside, and down the center.

Gemstones in this piece are cherry quartz, red coral, jasper, shell, and sea glass, accessorized with Glass, and Acrylic beads.

The center is adorn with a vintage photo locket that opens, and closes that has a red feather behind it. On the side of the locket is a pewter red blazing sun, which is easily adjusted so it sits the way you want it without blocking any of the photo's you place within the locket. I showed this in one of the pictures above to.

The scent is one of my own unique creations, and it is so refreshing. It will just lighten up your room! It is scented with Minty Lavender, which is just totally amazing!

This wreath is approx. 11" wide, and when hanging it is approx. 14" long.
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From HowlingCaterpillars

Beltane Altar In a Box OOAK

This is a brand new item. It is part of my PaganTeam's Beltane Challenge.

It started out as a plain brown papier mache box which I covered with Scrapbooking Paper in Green Grass and Wood patterns. The top I painted with Navy Blue, White, Colonial Blue and Off White so that it looks like the Earth from Space.

Inside you will find the startings of a personal altar for this holiday.

There is a Sandalwood jar candle, a Hawthorn branch and 5 feathers.

On the top is alway 3 wooden Stags, a Pair of Ivies, a Small Sun with a Spiral all surrounding a Large Sun with a Spiral.
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From TheWitchOfWitchcraft

Myrtle Wood Wand Beltane's Fire Powerhouse Fertility Wand 


Beltane's Fire is a powerhouse of Magick for fertility spells and rituals. All parts of this enchanting beauty corresponds to fertility and the physical, mental and spiritual healing that is always necessary when infertility is at hand.

Myrtle wood, copper wire securing the stones and spiraling it's way around the wand and forming nests around the stones, connecting the egg shaped geode to the quartz point, carressing the Ruby in Zoistite trigger/focus stone in the proccess. Green cotton threads with the correct number of knots, strands and wraps. 9 Olive shells are held in a woven copper bundle with 4 tibetan silver rabbits circling round.

There is a mother holding a child charm, a mother and baby elephant, turtle, alligator charms as well. A queen bee charm dangles happily with the others. I hand formed a copper and glass piece that symbolizes a pregnant woman that sways gently, suspended from the geode receptive end. There are strands of green cotton floss amongst the copper like bits in a bird's nest... Four emerald green goose feathers complete the receptive end.

Many, many hours were spent researching and crafting this potent tool for you. You can rest assured that everything is correct. After your purchase, I will explain how to properly use the trigger/ focus stone on this wand which is my original concept. There will be some slight movement of the stones since I strive not to use adhesives on the tools I create. Rest assured that they are quite securely attached to the wand via the copper wire that runs through the wand for energy conduction.

Approximately 21 inches long.
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From AStitchingWitch

Appliqued Quilted Beltane Altar Cloth, Wall Hanging , Table Runner Star Burst Reversable

What beautiful bright colors in this striking star burst quilt. I love the unique edge to this quilt a look all its own. The Batik fabric is just gorgeous with colors of fuchsia, orange, yellow, purple, green in a floral design.

I have appliquéd the star-burst center in a Batik with purples and pink design for the small points and the larger points with a solid purple.

The center is quilted in a continuous circle and the larger purple points are quilted with curly Q's and stars and the outer are is stipple quilted.

This quilt is done in a flip and turn method so the back is black with yellow and the quilting shows the star burst. Which is really nice since it makes it reversible.

Perfect Altar Cloth for celebrating the beginning of Ostara / Beltane Spring with the growth of flowers and the abundance of mother earth Litha , Lammas / Summer

Really nice size of : 22 inches x 21 inches
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From Moon HunterJewelry

Fire ruby red swarovski crystal dangle burst earrings with sterling hooks

Different shades of red swarovski crystal rondelles and bicones accented with silver plated beads create an attractive crystal burst with lots of movement. They sparkle and shine like fire, very dynamic. Sterling silver hooks won't aggravate allergies.

Measures about 3 inches or 8 cm from top of the hook to the tip of the bottom bead.

These are versatile, will look great with just about anything! Put the fire on!!!
These earrings seem to burn with an inner light, they'll burn, sparkle and shine and grab eyes. They seem to be fire elemental, can go with a t shirt or an evening gown and look super hot!!

A New Beginning Challenge! Please vote on the right!

The Team was challenged to create an item that reflects the theme 'A New Beginning.'

"The year draws to a close and a new dawn of increasing light approaches.The Winter Solstice/Yule brings the beginning of a new solar cycle. The veil, thin from All Hallow's Eve/Samhain, regains substance. We are moving into the year 2012, a year that holds much that has yet to be seen.

What will you create to represent the turning of the wheel, the beginning of 2012?"

Check out these great entries! and vote! Poll ends Sunday, February 19th!
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From:

Cynimue Green Nymph Apothecary and Wyrdcraft

IMBOLC Spell Kit - Candlemas, Brigid's Feast, Light Ritual, Groundhog Day - Simple, yet POWERFUL - Celebrate the Approach of SPRING

IMBOLC RITUAL


Imbolc is celebrated on February 1 or 2 (or February 12, according to the Old Calendar) in the northern hemisphere and August 1 in the southern hemisphere. These dates fall approximately halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.

Imbolc derives from the Old Irish "i'mbolg," meaning "in the belly." This refers to the pregnancy of ewes. A medieval glossary etymologizes the term as "oimelc," meaning "ewe's milk."

Imbolc is one of the cross-quarter days observed in Celtic mythology. It is a FIRE festival. The sun is becoming stronger, and the days are growing longer.

It celebrates the promise of fertility and the preparation of the earth for planting. Imbolc is filled with the anticipation of life about to burst forth.

Imbolc is also known as Brigid’s Day, Candlemas, or Groundhog Day, and it marks the end of t he dark of winter and celebrates the growing light and the first tremblings of spring’s approach. It is a time to move away from the old and prepare for the new, to “spring clean” the hearth and home as well as the soul.

*This spell kit includes everything you need to spring clean your mind, body, spirit, and home. It's a great way to welcome the New Year. Whether you celebrate in wild revelry or quiet solitude, this spell kit will add a fitting facet to your magical evening!

Great for any ritual that inspires a strong, blessed, new beginning.

Everything is fittingly blessed, charged, and anointed.

I make these kits to order, so if you want me to add any special elements or use any specifics when creating and blessing, please convo me.

Included in this kit:
-Cleansing, Strength, and Renewal-influencing herbs and spices potpourri
-a rune-inscribed candle
-Instruction/Information Spell Scroll
-stick incense
-velvet pouch
-blank parchment paper

Everything is enclosed in a reusable craft box and tied with satin ribbon. It makes a lovely gift for yourself or someone else!
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From:
RekonsWorkshop

Spring rings

This ring was made for the Paganteam Challenge "A New Beginning". You can vote for it here: http://www.paganteam.blogspot.com/ starting January 30th.

Handcast of pewter in a hand-carved soapstone mold, the way pewtercasting has been done for centuries, this ring features images of Spring: young spring plants, flowers, and animals, and an egg in a nest, with clouds, the sun, and a rainbow in the sky. Spring is not only a time of year when new life flourishes; it is symbolic of new beginnings and hope. The ring is open-backed and adjustable, and cast in lead-free pewter. One of the rings is shown at the base of the photo unbent, so you can see the full design.

This item's price includes FREE SHIPPING to any United States or Canadian address in a padded mailer.
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From:
FaerieNotions
Petrified Wood Turquiose Picture Jasper Gemstone Pendant Necklace - 18 Inches - Spiral Red

This necklace was made for the Paganteam Challenge "A New Beginning". You can vote for it here: http://www.paganteam.blogspot.com/

A new beginning is what everyone needs. A way to start fresh, wipe the slate clean. What better way to do so than with the energy this necklace provides? With the protective energies of Petrified Wood and Turquoise, and the balancing energy of Picture Jasper, a new beginning surely waits just beyond the horizon.

A bold spiral pendant lays at the center of this gorgeous necklace. Vivid red petrified wood beads, turquoise and picture jasper beads are a stunning color combination. It measures 18" and is finished off with a lobster clasp. It is believed by many that stones have metaphysical properties. Petrified wood is thought to protect against negative energy, while picture jasper encourages balance and stability. Turquoise is also thought to be a protective stone.
I take pride in offering stones that are natural. There are no dyed or synthetic beads used in my items. That gives each piece a genuine energy that will lift and heal your spirits. I use professional coated beading wire, silver plated findings and crimps, unless otherwise stated. I check all clasps and strength test all crimped ends to make sure every finished product is
secure.
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From:
DragonsMoon
Phoenix Kimono watercolor painting print in frame

This listing is for a scanned photo copy of the original painting, 'Japanese Phoenix' by Suzanne Maxwell. It is also the entry into PaganTeam's seasonal challenge, 'New Beginning'.
The mythological creature the Phoenix represents new beginnings by its nature to rise from the ashes. The Phoenix is found across the globe and represents wisdom, immortality and compassion.

The Ho-Oo is the Japanese version of the Phoenix.
Ho is the male and Oo is female.
The arrival of this fire bird signals a new era when it descends from sky and blesses people with good deeds. When finished, the Ho-Oo returns to the heavens and waits for the next new era.
It is also said that the Ho-Oo comes only in times of peace and prosperity.

I gave the kimono a background of bamboo. Bamboo also has symbolic meaning. Strength and endurance. A storm can take down many trees, but the flexible nature of the bamboo allows it to weather the storm and retain it's beauty.

The bamboo seed even ties to the phoenix, Myth says that the phoenix eats only bamboo seeds.

The coming of 2012 has been significant for decades. Much question and wondering is focused on the end date of the Mayan calendar. Some say doomsday is coming others say it is an awakening.
Those two opposing ideas are reflected in the nature of the Phoenix.
With every end there is a beginning.

For me 2012 represents a new beginning as I turn to my art more and more. This painting is also #2 of a series of kimono paintings I am doing.

This listing is for an 8x10 inch scanned copy of the original painting (also 8x10). The copy is a photo print on photo paper. The image is framed. I have sanded and finished the frame with a cherry wood stain and lightly clear coated the frame.

'Japanese Phoenix' is copyright protected. The watermark will not appear on the item in the listing.
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From:

HowlingCaterpillers

Break On Through Necklace Sea Green Creamy White Cameo OOAK
This Brand New One Of A Kind Item is my contribution for the PaganTeam Challenge with the theme of "A New Beginning."

Cobalt Quilter asked us: "The Year draws to a Close and a New Dawn of Increasing Light approaches.The Winter Solstice/Yule brings the Beginning of a new Solar Cycle. The veil, thin from All Hallow's Eve/Samhain, regains substance. We are moving into the Year 2012, a Year that holds much that has yet to be seen."

"What will you create to represent the turning of the wheel, the beginning of 2012?"

According to Numerologists, and Archaeologists and other -Gists, the World will come to an end on 21 Dec12.
The Hopi say:
"There was the cycle of the mineral, the rock. There was the cycle of the plant. And now we are in the cycle of the animals coming to the end of that and beginning the cycle of the human being."

Bible Codes describe a Holocaust caused by a comet striking the earth.

Some Chicken Littles say that Planet X or Niburu will approach us and cause enormous upheavals in our Little Blue Marble, everything from Earthquakes, Polar Shifts or “3 Days of Ddarkness” caused by Niburu’s gravity stopping the earth from spinning.

There have been prophecies like this since Biblical Times. Remember Y2K?

*I* happen to believe that the End Times are not the exact Stop! Step on the Brakes! End of Everything. *I* believe that it’s a New Start. The folks that live in Balance and Harmony with their Environment, not chasing after the All Mighty Dollar, will be the ones that see the rest of them through. 2012 WILL be a time of Change, but you can make it worse by holding up a sign saying "The End Is Near!!" or you can roll with it and be part of the Change for the Better.

My version of this rather serious topic is based on the Lighter Side of your Home Planet being bulldozed for an Interstellar Highway…"The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams.

"So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish" is the Fourth Book of the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy "trilogy". Its Title is the Message left by the Dolphins when they depart ed Planet Earth just before it was demolished.

Inside his still-standing home, Arthur finds a gift-wrapped bowl inscribed with the words "So Long and Thanks..." which he then uses for his Babel Fish, a Universal Language Translator Doohickey.
John Watson, a scientist who knows why the Dolphins disappeared, shows Arthur and his girlfriend Fenchurch, a bowl with the words "So long and thanks for all the fish" inscribed on it that they all own and encourages them to listen to it. They learn from the bow l's audio message that the Dolphins, aware of the Vogons (a sluglike bureaucratic race who's idea it was to destroy the Earth) left Earth for an alternate dimension, but NOT before replacing the destroyed Earth with a new version and transporting everything to it as a way of saving humans.

The Necklace is about 19 Inches long including the Flower Toggle Clasp. The Cameo Look Focal shows a Dolphin jumping out of the Water and through a Hoop that could be a Star Gate or a Worm Hole or a Portal to their New Dimension where Human Beings haven’t completely bulloxed things up yet. Or a Place where Everyone lives together in Harmony and Balance only taking what is needed, nothing more and helping those who need it without questi on.

I found some beautiful Square Beads that I hadn’t seen before that resemble the ripples of an Ocean far out to Sea.

The Creamy White Carved Sea Shell Round Beads compliment the Pendant.
The Square Beads were labelled "Sea Weed Stone". It seems as if it's a type of Agate or Quartz that has beautiful layers of different shades of green, clear, and tan.
Green Quartz is used for Prosperity and Luck. It can help strengthen your bond to the Earth and brings one's Energies into Harmony for Healing.
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From:
TreegoldandBeegold
Wheel of the Year Seasonal Embroidered Patch
This item is participating in the PaganTeam Challenge "New Beginnings" Please vote for it at: http://www.paganteam.blogspot.com/

Love the changing to the seasons? This patch represents just that.

It is a 3 1/2 inch round machine embroidery patch. This detailed patch contains 25 different colors to bring out each of the seasons.

Note the border that changes as you progress through the seasons. There are buds in the spring, green leaves in summer, orange leaves in the fall and only the branches in winter.

This is NOT an iron on patch. It must be sewn or glued on to the item you wish to put it on.

Patch is washable and will hold up to repeated wear like any commercially bought patch.

People and Planet First

The Pagan Team on Etsy is participating in the People and Planet First Campaign being hosted by Artisans Gallery Team on Etsy.

Through a series of blog posts Etsy Teams are taking the opportunity to share their opinions on supporting sustainable communities, indi businesses, as well as the role Etsy has played in fostering that independence.

The Pagan Team is an active group of individuals who come together to support each other. The team has an off Etsy site, The Tree House, where the 'community' that is our 'Etsy Team' gathers to further discuss and support one another as we develop our on line presence and local ventures we may undertake. We also share on the discussion area provided by Etsy, where we have ongoing discussions as well.

The opportunity to connect and communicate facilitates, team activities such as challenges, sales or giveaways. Finding ways to encourage Etsy shoppers to visit our Pagan Team shops in the open market that is Etsy, is part of what our team emphasizes. And then there is the inspiration of team members like Theresa Taylor.

Theresa, is a full time artist with Etsy sites and a brick and mortar Gallery/Boutique the Keyhole Gallery in Lakewood, OH. She describes herself as a DIY Momma who needs to create, and work with her hands. A jeweler first, she loves to work with metal in any application. Art Dolls are her next love, so putting metal and dolls together was just natural, as you can see from her shop DarklingDoll

Theresa i a bit eclectic. As she says, "I followed my imagination thru the keyhole and it led me to open a gallery, yay! It takes all my time, but it is bliss!" To learn more about the Keyhole check out the blog, or find items in the Gallery's Etsy Shop.

There are many active indi business people involved with Etsy teams! The following treasuries are a small sample of Pagan team Artisans work, Check out the great work!

End of Summer Challenge Winner!!

The winner is Michelle Simkins of Greenfingers!!

I asked her to share a bit about herself!

A little biographical info: I grew up with a crafty mom, in a public school that had good electives and offered art and music as part of the regular curriculum. That combination gave me lots of room and resources to make things from a young age. One of my grandma's taught me to embroider. The other one taught me to crochet, though I never really got past making ridiculously long crochet chains. I also started composing stories as soon as I learned how to write. I've always been happiest when I was either reading a novel or making something, whether it was an object or a story. No surprise that I grew up to choose creative pursuits as my work.

Where do you get your inspiration? My creative inspiration comes from everywhere. Usually it starts as a picture in my head that won't go away, and often I'm not sure where that picture came from. Other times it comes from wanting a finished object--a knitted pouch for my tarot cards, for example--and not finding a pattern anywhere that makes me happy. Once the concept is fully realized, my color and embellishment choices are kind of intuitive. I work by what feels right. Which sometimes means groping around and trying different things until I get that "a-HA!" feeling.

How long have you been creating original knitting patterns? I created my first pattern in 2007. It was the knitted goddess pattern, and I woke up one morning with the idea almost fully formed in my head. It only took two prototypes to have the pattern the way I wanted it.

When & where do you create? I create whenever I can. Ideas seem to come at me pretty regularly, though sometimes it takes a long time to get around to exploring them. I have a spreadsheet on my computer for ideas, so I don't lose track of them. I mostly create in my bedroom or living room, when I'm working on knitted items or writing. If it's something with herbs or flowers I work outside in an old fifth wheel trailer that's heated with a wood stove.

How does it fit in your life? Creativity kind of IS my life. Right now I'm spending all of my time creating, doing energy work and readings, or volunteering. I quit my day job a few years ago and now I work for myself and love it. But my creative priorities are constantly shifting, and certain processes and methods come and go for me. I always love knitting, for example, but how much time I spend on it varies drastically from one month to another.

What advantages to see in being a part of a team and participating in events, like this challenge? For me, being part of a team is about finding other creative people to connect with. It's been difficult to participate lately, with life and family keeping me busy, but I've really enjoyed seeing what other people are creating, sharing ideas with them, and troubleshooting/problem solving with them. And challenges are wonderful because they give me a little creative kick in the pants. With a deadline and some parameters the creative process gets narrowed down a little, which makes it easier in some ways. Other times, the possibilities are so limitless it can be difficult to know where to begin. A design challenge gives my wheels a direction to spin in. Also . . . it's fun to meet a challenge AND to see how other people meet the same challenge.

Thanks for sharing Michelle!

End of Summer Challenge Entries!

The team was challenged to create an item that reflects the Summer's End. The beginning of Autumn, serious harvest preparations as we see the fruition of our efforts, not only in the garden but in our lives. What have we been putting our energies into? What results do we anticipate?

Here are the entries! Be sure to vote for your favorite!

1. Red Agate Pentacle Hematite Aragonite Moonstone Gemstone Necklace 22 Inches - Summers End By FaerieNotions!

A beautiful sun, setting in the sky, is what this pendant reminds me of. Orange and red bring warmth to the eye, accented by a small pentacle. Hematite, aragonite, moonstone and silver plated spacers make up the rest of this great necklace. The necklace measures at 22" and is finished off with a S clasp. It is believed by many that stones have metaphysical properties. Hematite is a healing stone, excellent also for it's grounding abilities. Moonstone has a gentle protective energy, also well known for attracting love. Aragonite brings an urge to find truth in reality, as well as increasing energy in your self-worth as you seek to find the truth in yourself, and red agate is known for its healing ability and for bringing calmness and peace to the wearer. All of these stones work together to bring you to a more complete and fruitful place, a place where you can harvest your best abilities and reap the benefits of good physical and mental health.

2. Summer's End Knitted Drawstring Pouch by Green Fingers

I designed this pouch for the PaganTeam's "Summer's End" design challenge. It reflects the colors of trees and changing leaves.

It's the perfect size to hold a crystal sphere, or to protect small items like jewelry when traveling. The leaf motif is knitted from superwash wool, and the body of the pouch is a cotton bamboo blend. The entire pouch is machine washable in cold water, but should be dried flat.

3. ACEO Quilted, Embellished Textile Art by Cobaltquilter

This ACEO is one in a series of quilted and embellished trading card sized textile art.

This listing is for the one seen in the first photo titled 'In the light of the new moon.'

This is my entry in the Paganteam Summer's end challenge, winter is a dark time of the year for me, much like a new moon I must maintain my awareness of the coming light!

There are 9 ACEOs in this Gray and Black series.

I have doodled with my sewing machine in black on a gray fabric, this was a practice/warm up piece. I then cut the piece into 2.5 X 3.5 inch trading card sized pieces of art. I have embellished with beads and charms. The edges are a knotted selection of yarns I picked up at the local thrift store!

Each small quilt is then glued to a piece of heavy weight watercolor paper. Each one is titled, signed and dated with the year.

Healing Intent Challenge winner BluuLotus Designs shares about herself and her creative process!

Hi, My name is Michelle Molesch (BluuLotusDesigns on Etsy) and this is my story :

I knew I was an artist the moment I could use my hands to create, draw, paint, mold and touch. So from the very first drawing I made I knew this is what I wanted to do as a profession when I would grow up to an adult. Although the process of following my dream from childhood to young adult would prove itself difficult, I had to fight for my dream and become stubborn and unwilling to mold myself into something I was not. My parents have well intentions but knew going into the Art field would be hard to make a living off of so they tried to nudge me towards doing something I did not love 100% with my heart. So, with that all said I nonetheless kept pursuing my prefer'd dream in attempt to show them that not giving up something can prove to pay off in the end.

After a year's hiatus after High School was over It was time for me to go to college. I have always wanted to attend an Art School to improve my skills and become a master of the Art. Unfortunately the University's in this country are very expensive and would end up spending most of your life to pay off tuition. So, upon my father's suggestion I went into a community college in North East Ohio (also my birth place) because there I had relatives and family that I could reside with until I found roommates, a part time job and a place to stay. I did so and attended Lakeland Community College for about 4 years taking every available Art Class they had. From this I learned Pottery for the first time taking to the wheel was natural, refreshing and calming to the soul; I learned metal smiting and jewelry design, finding this art form to be one of the most intensive and endearing. I was disappointed with the painting classes and teachers, I REALLY wanted to go into oils and learn the like masters, but alas they were not up to par. I also took photography classes and learned how to use the dark room and the process of creating your pictures yourself was very fun and rewarding.

I also met some of my most important friends and spiritual teacher's that would open me up and show me my path as not only an artist but as a shaman, pagan, medium and green witch. Through these friends I learned deep within my soul I had more gifts than I realized and I am still finding out the extent of where my gifts can take me into this world. I am really grateful for them and what they have taught me about my mind, body and spirit. Given this I changed my outlook on the universe with whole new meaning, it was like a breath of fresh air...a breeze taking me and stretching my imagination as far as I could reach it. But also I needed to keep myself grounded and make sure I do not stray off my given path which indeed I would do so once I had returned to Florida. I did not have a real stable spiritual group in Florida like I did in Ohio so staying on my life path was proving to be more and more difficult with every twist and turn.

Actually I did not get a chance to finish Lakeland and I had to leave not out of my own free will and I was very sad and devastated to leave behind such wonderful friends and community. It hit me so hard I became depressed and sunk into a dark period of my life using the internet, games and of course my art to escape from a reality I did not want to acknowledge. Feel like a bird trapped in it's cage I yearned for escape to spread these wings to fly into the world. I would meet new friend's and people who would encourage me not to give up what I had started. This in turn slowly made me stronger, but I still felt something was missing in my life ..and that was LOVE. I did go through some important life changing relationships that really taught me more about myself and my body.

One fateful day I was bored so I decided to go on a old RPG game online just to make the time go by faster. So, upon playing I found my old guild I was part of and they instantly took me under their wings again. I know this sounds nerdy and corny but I needed to level up my wizard so I was being helped out by a Monk.. and this character was being played by my future boyfriend! Who knew that I'd find love on a silly little game online! We instantly became friends for about a year and kept in touch through MSN messenger and then SKYPE. Talking very frequently to each other and steady gaming partners. Turns out he is only 1 year and 1 day older than me. He is from Vienna, Austria and a pieces to boot like me!

After a year went by I became somehow busy and disconnected from the internet for almost a month in 2009. Once back online, I was afraid my long distance friend would of abandoned me by now...but, this was not the case! Once I got back online he was there waiting for me! Asking me he was worried something happened to me and had missed me dearly. So, from there on out we decided to make the move and meet each other in person. Of course I could not afford to go visit him but instead he would come and see me. After about 8-9 month's waiting we met for the first time in person and I was full of butterflies and anticipation that made me seem like I was floating on Cloud 9!! Everything had worked out great and we immediately made plans to move in with him in Austria! But once again this would prove to be a little more difficult than I thought!

Now this was only because my family's history of unorganized and last minute planning. But other wise we were also bombarded with help for money from both of my younger and older brother's. So the adventure of getting myself from point A in Florida to point B in Vienna, Austria would be a interesting one. I managed to go twice for 3 month periods in 2010. Finally when I had to return back to the states I was could not fathom being apart from my boyfriend. But, was determined not to return until I had completed all the unnecessary paper work to go back into the country. It took almost a whole year but we finally have completed all the steps in order for me to get my student residency permit. The task of moving to Austria was a very tough one! But now with the paper work out of the way I could finally once again spread my wings to the world!

in less than 2 weeks I will be finally flying over to Vienna, Austria and will start (with the luck from the goddess) attending @ the university of the arts in October 2011!!!!! This process has taken over 10 years in the making for me to make my dreams into a reality! Not only will I get to go to a Art School like I've always wanted, but I will be doing it with the man I love in a country I love in Europe! I feel great to finally be able to safely transition into the world. I proved to my family and relatives that not giving up sure does pay off in the end!!!! Now the final task at hand is to choose ONE thing to master in. Which I am still contemplating. It's between Fashion Design, Painting, Jewelry Design, Pottery and Photography!!

So.. now let me tell you a little bit about my creative process.. for me it really depends on what medium of art I am doing at the moment. But in general I find inspiration everywhere I look! If it be in a book, online or someone walking by on the street.. but my main inspiration comes from Nature. I love the earth and all of the wonderful things she has to offer us..and I find that the most inspirational. Once I have chosen my points of inspiration I write or draw them out in my sketch books and go from there!!! I try to make myself sketch more often, that's one of the things I flunked in college..was not being able to sketch out my idea's before executing them! I was sort of the last minute artist.. I hated the idea of sketching them out because I found the image in my head to be already more detailed than what I could fit or have time to do on paper. So in the end I was afraid if I sketched it out it would ruin the concept I had in my head all along! If that makes sense!

Recently I have been creating what I could either afford or could find readily available supplies or materials for! But I sort of go back and forth between painting with acrylics making paintings inspired by Monet in the impressionistic style, or doing my current infatuation with Buddha faces! I also love to paint with watercolors making illustrations first in ink with heavy thick lines reminiscent of the Art Nouveau period inspired by Alphonse Mucha and his curvy women he painted. I also enjoy spending hours knitting away and sewing at the sewing machine. I am working on my own line of knit wear designs but it's a long and slow process! If I am not doing art I am working out, doing yoga, talking to friend's online, blogging, art watching or just chilling with my kitty on the couch (while knitting)!

I hope that my story inspires others not to give up their dreams! because in the end only you can make it manifest for yourself! -namaste!!

Healing Intent Challenge Entries

The Team was challenged to create a work that reflects intent, how we connect and heal each other and our planet, as an aware family. I encouraged members of the Pagan Team to create with focused intent for those in need beyond our immediate reach. Reflect our ability to heal each other through creative expression. Events in the Universe affect us all, who we stand with to find and give solace defines who we are.

The results are fantastic! Below you will find each entry with a description and a link to the item on Etsy. Please vote for your favorite, the poll will close Sunday July 10, come back to see the winner! There will be a follow up post featuring details about the winning artist!

#1 ArmoredHearts

Fire Lotus Candle Skirt

Spring is the season of fire; this Lotus flower shaped Candle skirt is like a ring of metallic fire around a single flame or consciousness. 3 colors of fire; red, orange and gold create this open blossom. Relaxed and calming; yet empowering.

Decorate your home, altar or any personal space with serene style. This tea light candle skirt sets the tone of healing power and focus for the season and for all seasons to come.

Hand woven stainless steel rings with red, orange and gold anodized aluminum scales in an open lotus flower. Measures approx. 3 1/2 inch in diameter.

3 white, vanilla scented soy tea lights are included. Fits standard PLASTIC tea lights.

Disclaimer: always set a candle on a heat proof dish or plate. This item will retain heat so have a care when blowing out the candle or changing the tea light. I am not responsible for accidental injury while using this product; in two words: BE CAREFUL!

This Pattern was created by Mike Stevenson from Borealis Metalwork and distributed by my scale supplier The Ring Lord.

I love working with scales and have great ideas for this design as well as working to find a similar pattering using large scales and pillar candles, stay turned!


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#2 NativeWorksMother Earth Beaded Turtle Necklace

Why Turtles? 'intent and healing.'

Native American lore teaches that Turtle is the first symbol for our great Mother Earth. It teaches that She belongs to both the Water and the Earth. It is Turtle that brought up mud from the bottom of the oceans to create the first land. Turtle represents the true essence of creativity. All life is created of the Earth and all life shall return. We must remember to respect and honor the gifts that Turtle gives to us everyday. Be mindful of the cycles of give and take. The Earth Mother gives us everything we need to sustain our lives and we must remember to give back to her. Do not abuse her.

Turtle carries her home upon her back, it is her place of comfort and her place of protection. It is her shield against the outside world when she is feeling threatened. It allows her to return to the protective womb of the Earth until she feels it is safe to return to the outside world.

Turtle is a fine teacher in the art of grounding. If you find your self feeling the negative energies of others, whether it be in the form of jealousy, envy, or hate then you need to connect to Turtle and the Earth Mother . Hear the rhythm of the earth and align yourself with Turtle Medicine. Learn to walk a balanced road and you will create a peaceful and abundant life. By doing so you will show others that their negative thoughts and actions do not affect you.

I have been working on this new design over the last few weeks and happy to now have it available on my store. I created this little guy using No.11 seed beads in translucent Dark Jade, inside color Jade and Cream yellow, and light Green.

All beads are hand stitched using a special technique I created to resemble loom beading. I designed the necklace part using the same beads as the turtle so that there is a perfect match. This is truly a unique and one of a kind piece.

The necklace is 81/2" long and fits up to a 17" neck. It was designed to be worn as a choker style necklace.


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#3 TheVillageShaman
Serpentina Ophicius Yellow Turquoise Necklace

This item is an interesting expression of mystery! I have had this anchor piece for a year, and couldn't quite think of the right thing to put it on, or in... or with! Today, I acquire some beautiful and unique yellow turquoise and 5 minutes later, I am compelled to dig up my brass "Serpentina"!

Also recognized as the Minoan Snake Goddess, she's just over 19inches from knot to knot. This is a naturally multi-colored strand of hemp carrying a total of 100 rounds of yellow turquoise (4mm). The brass toggles accent the color of Serpentina perfectly and bring the whole piece together beautifully!

There is a lot of mystery about Serpentina. I have heard that she is referred to and worshiped as the "White Goddess" and is the secret basis for the constellation of Ophicius (recently popularized in Western Zodiac debates and also attributed to the great Egyptian priest and healer, Imhotep). With two snakes, she is/was definitely a sign of healing/medicine, magic, sensual energy and wisdom.

My focus on this peace was of the power of intent to heal. Turquoise is a stone long used as a healing agent and snake symbolism has its most ancient roots in medicine and magic. It is my intent that this very special piece bring positive energy to all who see, hear about, touch and wear it. She has been waiting for a long time and I look forward to finding her rightful place!

For the best in health and peace,

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#4 BluuLotusDesigns

IN-Trance Series: The Sacred Spiral Dance 16 X 20 Canvas

I tend to channel energy from the divine to induce a trance like state as I paint.

I create the painting for free flow of energy and to eliminate the need to be constrictive thus allowing myself free-form of movement while being playful and joyous in nature. This is new to my usual way of painting which is controlling or trying to do something that is not me!

I came to the realization while making my 2nd painting of that the energy emitted off the painting can be very healing.. now each painting I do I shower my love and joy into the painting so I share that energy with other people..as a healer and a shaman I find it necessary to radiate the vibrancy of a deeper subconscious level of attunement with the over soul in order to fully understand the meaning of love for oneself and others. Once the connection with the over soul is complete one may find the need to pass on this unconditional love to those around them.. even strangers. This is my idea for an ideal world where no boundaries exist and we all may live in peace and harmony with each other.
So each step we take to share our love with the higher self may as well be the key to unlocking the tragic state that the earth is in at this moment...lets all remember to be open and share the love and magic that we hold within our hearts and heal one another until no darkness may be left on this planet! -namaste

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#5 EJCreationsIntented

Blessing Salt Healing Blend

Blessing Salt Healing Blend Blessing Salt Healing Blend Blessing Salt Healing Blend
This listing is for one 3"x5" bag of Healing Blessing Salt.

Our Blessing Salts are made for a variety of specific intentions. Healing Blend should be used whenever you are feeling ill. It can be placed in the corners of a room or sprinkle a little in your pillowcase for a little extra healing energy while you sleep. It can even be used in the bath, just be sure to place it in a tea bag or cover the drain so that the herbs do not clog it. It also makes a wonderful casting salt for healing rituals.

Each batch of Blessing Salt is cleansed and charged with selenite before it is packaged. This is done to assure that it is energized and ready to be used when you need it.

These salts are handmade just for you in the heart of Houston, TX!

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#6 Eldwenne


Goddess Spiral and Glass Series Bracelet 1

The Goddess Spiral has inspired me so. In lieu of leaning to the cliche and including the goddess figure, I've taken the symbol of the spiral and captured through the glass beads what the Goddess personifies.

This bracelet contains the Goddess spiral and combines it with beautiful orbs of glass beads with gold painted accents, embellished with copper colored seed beads. Beautiful wine colored glass beads dangle from either end.

Goddess jewelry is empowerment. Serenity. Peaceful strength, surrounded by nurturing warmth.

This bracelet was designed with the goddess' spiral symbol, to invoke strength and enlightenment.

All of Eldwenne's Fantasy's jewelry is cleansed with sage during the creative process, as well as immediately prior to shipping.

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#7 HowlingCaterpillars

Mitakuye Oyasin (Everything is Connected) All Natural Bracelet

This Brand New Item is a Bracelet that was inspired by the Pagan Team Spring Challenge put forward by CobaltQuilter.

It contains all of the Metaphysical Elements in Combination: Earth, Air, Fire and Water, with the fifth Element of Spirit, my creativity, also going into it.

It is 8 and a Half Inches Long from Lobster Claw Clasp to Jump Ring. The bracelet is strung on 7 Strand, .022 Diameter Nylon Coated Miniature Wire Cable. The clasp components are gold plated.

The all Natural Beads are Buri Nuts, Cowry Shells, Lava Rock, and elongated Bicone Wood Beads.

The very prettily splotched Cream and Brown Round Beads are Buri Seeds. Buri gives one a Connection to Higher Understanding. They give Clarity, and a sense of Calm, allowing one to think and feel clearly, and to be in touch with one's Spirit.
The Buri Tree is the most common Palm tree in the Philippines, and has a variety of uses, from the Buds as Vegetables to the Stalk used for creating a common Alcoholic Beverage imbibed by locals called Tuba. The Fibre from the Tree is also used in the creating of Hats and Fans and Rope too! The Leaves are turned into Raffia. The Buds are used in Salads. The Seeds are used for Rosary Beads and Buttons. Immature Leaves can be used for Sails and Baskets.
The Seeds are actually Nuts that are hand shaped. They’re Lightweight, and have a Smooth Finish. They take dye easily making them very versatile to work with.
Buri Nuts' Elements are Earth, and Air. Earth, because the Tree's roots are deep in the Earth. Air, because it gives us back oxygen for us to breathe.

Lava Rock is the Physical Embodiment of Fire. Lava Rock can be used to develop a relationship with the Fire Elementals, bringing about quick action towards long-sought after goals. The Energy of Fire is Direct, Powerful, Passionate, and Headstrong. It can be very useful for those who are Indecisive, or Timid. Lava Rock can also help one develop stronger ties with the Earth, because it was once of one Elemental form, and has been transformed to another. It can also be beneficial for Fire Signs who feel they are too quick to jump into action or fly off the handle, by balancing them with the blending of Earth's Grounding Energies.
The Correct Name for Lava Rock is Scoria. Scoria is a Dark-Coloured, Vesicular(Like a Blister or with Bubbles), Extrusive(Flowing Out, not being thrown out) Igneous Rock. The Blisters are a result of trapped gas within the Lava at the time of cooling. It often forms as a frothy crust on the top of a Pyroclastic Flow.
Scoria's Elements are Fire and Earth. It starts are molten rock which is Fire, then changes into Rock which is Earth.

The Cowry Shell is a Symbol of Good Luck and Material Wealth. It is a Gift from a Goddess, so it always bears her Blessings. If you look closely, the Bottom Side of a Cowry Shell resembles the Female Sexual Parts. The Top Side is shaped like the Abdomen of a very Pregnant Woman. The natural design of the Cowry is one main reason why this Shell has maintained so much popularity throughout the years. Spiritually, according to African legend, if you are attracted to Cowry Shells, you could be kin to an Ocean Spirit of Wealth. It also represents Goddess Protection, which is very Powerful and connected with the Strength of the Ocean. Throughout Africa, and the Americas, the Cowry symbolized the power of Destiny and Prosperity. Cowry was also thought of as the "Money of Ifa", who was a Scribe and allowed messages between Heaven and Earth in the Yoruba culture of Western Africa. Shades of Tekhuti!
Cowry's Element is Water, naturally.

The Carved Wood Beads are from a sustainable source from Korea, or the Philippines. They are an Elongated Bicone shape with Tribal looking Carvings of Lines and Dots.
Trees have the Elements of Earth, where their roots hold them, and Air, which they produce to help us live.

This bracelet is not only Tribal looking but it's a good choice for the eco minded. After doing all my research, I discovered that all of the things I used to make the necklace were sustainable and eco friendly Yay me!

Please check out this listing for the matching necklace:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/71413695/mitakuye-oyasin-all-are-related-all