Romantica Nocturnis: An Interview with Clothing Designer Joelle Richard

Greetings, Everyone! Today I have an interview with Joelle Richard, the lovely clothing designer behind Romantica Nocturnis: Victoriana and alternative clothing and accessories for women and men. I hope you enjoy reading about Joelle and her clothing designs :)

Joelle Richard, designer and owner: Romantica Nocturnis

How did you realize you had a calling to design clothing?

My interest in fashion really only peaked once I realized how much I was drawn to the Goth aesthetic. Once I started trying to build myself a Gothic wardrobe, I got the sense that most of the clothes that I wanted to wear weren't available to me, and I would sometimes sketch designs that were in my head. My boyfriend (now fiancé) was the one who suggested I pursue fashion design, and I did need some convincing at first. But I was a waitress at the time and hated my job, so I eventually decided that going back to school and learning a skill that I could use towards a creative career was the way to go.

Victorian pinstripe waist skirt by Romantica Nocturnis

How long have you been creating handmade clothing?

I started studying fashion at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design in 2006, and graduated from the Fashion Design diploma program in 2009, and with a diploma of Advanced Study in 2010. I started up Romantica Nocturnis in September of 2010, so I've been doing it professionally for just over two and a half years, but I would say that I've had the skills to really bring my designs to life since 2009.

Victorian pinstripe shrug with short sleeves

What or who inspires your creations?

Inspiration can come from endless different places. But I can certainly say that historical fashion, particularly from the Victorian era, has a big draw for me. I never go for historical accuracy, though, I just bring specific elements into my designs. I'll also pick up design elements from other places, like on TV and in movies, photos on the internet, people on the street, even from characters in video games and anime. One tiny detail can inspire a whole outfit, and then that outfit can inspire a whole collection.

Victorian velvet and lace top by Romantica Nocturnis

How do you begin your design process?

I'd like to say that I always start with a sketch or illustration, but the truth is that sometimes I never commit the ideas to paper. Sometimes I get so excited by a new design idea that I'll want to just jump right in! Next comes pattern drafting, which I get a lot of satisfaction from when I'm able to work out a new kind of pattern all on my own. I'm at a point where I can generally picture in my head, from start to finish, exactly how I'll go about creating a garment, and that's something I'm pretty proud of.

Victorian men's velvet waistcoat

What are your favorite fabrics to work with?

Even as a student I always felt the need to challenge myself with my designs, so I've never shied away from using difficult fabrics. So when I say that I love working with velvet, lace, and satin, it's because I love the look of them, and not because it's easy! Stretch velvet in particular, which I tend to use quite often, can be a real pain to work with. But it's well worth the trouble to have the finished piece be made from a beautiful fabric.

Victorian men's velvet spats

What other things besides clothing do you enjoy creating?

While I've always been a very creative person, especially as a child, I have to say that lately I don't really spend a lot of time making things other than clothing. I've always enjoyed drawing, but I hardly ever draw anymore now. I used to devote a lot of time to playing music too, but don't feel the need to do that anymore either. I painted my kitchen recently, does that count? ;)

Stretch lace sleeves

What other interests do you enjoy in your spare time?

Well, I will proudly admit that I'm a giant geek, so a lot of my hobbies are of a geeky nature. I love to read, particularly fantasy novels, and I'm a long-time gamer (currently playing Skyrim and also Tetris occasionally). My fiancé and I also enjoy listening to various podcasts together, and there are, of course, a few TV shows I enjoy - I can't get enough of Once Upon a Time, and am eagerly awaiting season three of Game of Thrones.

Velveteen corset, satin circle skirt and lace shrug, One of a kind by Romantica Nocturnis

 

What is your favorite quotation?

That's a difficult thing to narrow down, but being very fond of Oscar Wilde I'll choose “You can never be overdressed or overeducated.”

 

Faux-leather bustier and satin bustle skirt, One of a kind by Romantica Nocturnis

 

 

Where can we find your lovely clothing designs?

www.etsy.com/shop/RomanticaNocturnis
www.facebook.com/romanticanocturnis

 

Black velveteen and blue jacquard dress, One of a kind by Romantica Nocturnis

 

Thank you for the interview, Joelle!  Until next time, Dear Readers!  xoxo Cat

 

** ALL PHOTOGRAPHS ARE THE PROPERTY OF AND COPYRIGHT OF JOELLE RICHARDS AND ROMANTICA NOCTURNIS AND ARE USED WITH PERMISSION.

Dank Artistry: An Interview with Spoon Jeweler, Dan Kemp

I have had a passion for spoon rings and spoon jewelry since my dear aunt Isabella gave me an old spoon ring she had owned back in the 1970's.  Suddenly I was in love with silverware and patterns.  My personal favorite pattern is the Charter Oak, but I have developed a love for spoon jewelry with roses and those with Art Nouveau patterns. Because of the multitude of patterns out there, there is a diverse array of looks and styles from a very Victorian look to a very modern Gothic look. I think it's a very unique and affordable way to create a really cool and fashionable look!

Today I have my interview with Dan Kemp, the talented spoon jeweler of  Dank Artistry. I am in love with his unique collection of patterns and the heirloom quality jewelry he creates from them. Now let's meet Dan!

Michelangelo Spoon Ring by Dank Artistry

"How did you become interested in creating spoon jewelry?"

It came about sort of organically. After quitting my job I started making a bunch of stuff to sell. I originally thought I was going to make a business of sewing and selling pants. Pants were hard to sell because there are so many different sizing options. I started to make jewelry to sell as well. I was melting down spoons to make organically shaped pendants. I found a few spoons with some really cool designs and made them into crude spoon rings. They sold much better than anything else I was making at the time so I just kept making them!

Dan Kemp

"What is the most unique piece of spoon jewelry you have created in terms of your design?"

I think my spoon and fork sculptures are the most unique. I am fascinated by insects and flowers, and have made a few models of insects out of spoons that have turned out great. I don't sell those online, they are something I do to exercise my creativity.

Spoon Insect by Dank Kemp

 

"Do you have a favorite pattern or one you consider the most coveted to find?"

That's like asking me to pick my favorite child! I love the Art Nouveau period patterns from 1900 - 1910. I collect Watson's and Wallace's floral series teaspoons just for fun.

Rose Spoon Ring by Dan Kemp 

"What do you remember about your very first customer and sale?"

When began I was selling my jewelry and art at a small craft market in a tiny town, I sold a few things to friends at the sales first. The first thing I really sold to someone I didn't know, (or who wasn't a friend of a friend) was a spoon ring. I remember thinking that perhaps I really would be able to make it in my own business. At that time I was really poor, making just enough to pay my bills.

Knife Bell Necklace by Dank Artistry

 

"Apart from designing stunning spoon and silverware jewelry, what else do you enjoy doing?"

My wife and I spend a lot of time with our friends laughing. I have an addiction to rex begonias and live bearing fish. I also have a big collection of instruments I like to practice and learn to play. Last year I decided I wanted to become financially literate, so I spend a lot of time learning about money.

Repousse Kirk Stieff Spoon Ring by Dank Artistry 

"What handmade possession do you personally cherish the most?"

On our wedding day my mom presented my wife and I with a painting of us finger painting together as children. It's a beautiful painting she made. It's kind of humorous because when I was the age I am in the painting, my wife was still in diapers. My wife's hand in the painting is taken from a picture of my brother's hand in a photo from when we were kids. It's quirky, strange, and funny if you know the story behind the painting. Once everyone involved is dead it will be a wonderful heirloom:)

Spoon Bracelet Precious Pattern by Dank Artistry

 

 "What music do you listen to while you create your pieces?"

I listen to Folk music from:  folkalley.com

Dan Kemp in his studio workshop

"Where can we find your beautiful jewelry?"

www.facebook.com/DankArt
www.dankartistry.etsy.com
www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/DankArtistry
www.dankartistry.com

Thank you, Dan!

**All photos courtesy of and copyright of Dan Kemp and Dank Artistry.

I Do Believe in Faeries: An Interview with Theresa MacNaughton of Faerie Moon Creations

Greetings, everyone!  Today I have a little interview with the multi-talented Theresa MacNaughton of Faerie Moon Creations.  I have been a fan of Theresa's art for some time now and just recently released a perfume featuring her sweet and gorgeous art that she created just for my perfume.  Now let's read on about Theresa and take a look at some of her magical art and her whimsical, and romantic jewelry :)

Original mixed media art was created to benefit The M & L Hockman Ranch

What inspired you to become an artist?

I have always loved art since I was a child. I entertained the idea of becoming an artist as a teenager, but life took me down a different path. It wasn't until several years ago that I had the urge to try again – but offering original art and jewelry on etsy.

Red Paper Rose Earrings

What are you favorite art mediums to create with?

I love working with acrylic paint and colored pencil. When I was younger, I was actually afraid of color...but now I embrace it!

Blue Wooden Butterfly Necklace by Faerie Moon Creations

What is your favorite theme to create around?

My favorite themes are whimsy, nature, and faeries.  

Red Haired Butterfly Faerie Fine Art Giclee Print

Can you tell us how you begin creating a piece?

When creating an art piece, I will usually have an idea in my mind of how I want it to look. I'll begin sketching the main image and take it from there, I especially love to work on faces. I adore creating beautiful eyes – because I believe that's where stories are told.

Cinderella Mini Art Print Necklace

You also make a lot of lovely jewelry, tell us a little about the pieces you make and what inspires them.

I enjoy making jewelry that I, myself, would like to wear. I often create one-of-a-kind pieces but sometimes will duplicate a design if I find it is really popular. Our jewelry designs are whimsical and pretty and nature-based. My husband is my jewelry partner-in-crime. He works on the metal designs – he enjoys manipulating silver and copper and turning them into interesting, unique jewelry pieces.

Silver Beaded Calla Lily Earrings

What is the most unique piece of art or jewelry you have created?

A bracelet we call “Mystic Moons” is one of our more unique pieces. I love the natural look of the earthy colored beads along with the copper washers and silver spirals. A lot of work went into this piece. My husband had a great time working on it.

Mystic Moons by Faerie Moon Creations 

What other hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?

I love reading, photography, hiking, baking (especially cupcakes) and knitting.

Dorothy and Toto Art Print Bookmark by Theresa MacNaughton

What handmade possession do you cherish the most?

My favorite handmade possession actually came from my husband. He actually found this lovely smooth large rock that was in the shape of a heart. He beautifully painted in delicate shades of red and inscribed it with “My love for you is as solid as a rock.” I simply adore it. He often makes me little handmade trinkets from nature findings.

Where can we find your sweet, lovely artwork and beautiful jewelry and read more about you?

Etsy www.etsy.com/shop/faerymoongoddess
Blog faeriemooncreations.blogspot.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/FaerieMoonCreations
Pinterest pinterest.com/faeriemoon
Twitter twitter.com/faerymoongodess
 

Thank you so much for sharing, Theresa!

 

Now, here is the artwork Theresa, created for my newest perfume oil, Naenia.  The first TEN people to buy the perfume will get one of ten special LIMITED EDITION art print bookmarks of this artwork by Theresa.  This art will be found no where else, so only ten of you will have a chance to own an art print of it as a large format bookmark.  They are protected in plastic and come with a tassel. Theresa has made these very lovely for you :)

NAENIA: PERFUME Oil by Deep Midnight Perfumes, art by Theresa MacNaughton of Faerie Moon Creations

 

 

See you again soon!  XOXO  Cat

 

**Photographs courtesy of and copyright of Theresa MacNaughton of Faerie Moon Creations.

** Perfume listing copyright of Cat Marx of Deep Midnight Perfumes, Artwork Copyright of Theresa MacNaughton and Faerie Moon Creations, for use by Deep Midnight Perfumes Only.

An Interview with Ally of Feral Strumpet: "Wanton whimsies for wildlings"

I have quite a few favorite shop on etsy, and Feral Strumpet is one of the shops that first captured my wandering, jewelry-addicted eye.  My friend Ally has taken the time to answer these interview questions so we can all learn a little bit more about her and her stunning jewelry :) Here is a chance to take a look and find something special for yourself or a loved one for Valentine's Day as well!

Valentine Wine Red Fairy Flower Earrings

 

What inspired you to become a jewelry designer?

Ever since I was a teenager scouring thrift stores, I have refurbished vintage jewellery making it into something new, but it wasn't until I moved to Yorkshire from London that I became serious about it. I was jobless, a bit desperate and a friend said, "Why don't you sell the jewellery you make?"

 

      Feral Valentine Red Sacred Heart Earrings by Feral Strumpet

How do you begin your design process and what are your favorite materials?

Most of my designs start from stories, myths and archetypes that surface in my reading and research on the history of Witchcraft in Europe. I love to go hiking on the moors, and often things will come to me suddenly while taking in that vastness. Characters arise and I know what they are wearing-- and then I make it. My favourite materials right now are raw crystals. I have pounds of them which have come to me like wayward children. I've cleaned them-- literally and ritually. Working with them has given me vivid dreams.

You have a lot of wonderful fantasy themes in your pieces. What is your favorite theme to create around?

I think of all the forgotten wise women throughout history, and sometimes I fancy they whisper to me while I work. Also, there is the indulgence of childhood in many of my pieces. I have always loved fantasy literature since I was a child. I used to dream of riding dragons and visiting enchanted places. I guess I haven't changed that much!

Describe the very first piece you created?

My first jewellery I ever made were strings of beads to wear on my wrists. I was covered in bracelets--it was the 80s. But the first piece that marked the particular design that led to me making jewellery professionally was the Black Hearted Love Rosary Necklace:

Black Rosary Necklace and Carved Cinnabar Heart by Feral Strumpet

Versions of this necklace have become a best seller; it has been featured on the front page of Etsy. I made the first one 10 years ago and wear it all the time-- now, I listen to the rosary fragments that come to me. If they want to be black-hearted, that's what I make them.

Tell us a little about the shows where you exhibit and sell your jewelry and creations.

My favourite place to sell is Eastercon, the British Science Fiction convention. There is a great sense of community, enthusiasm and wacky fun. I feel as if I am with my people!

What piece of jewelry remains your favorite?

My current favourite is the Spiral Promise Ring.

Most of my designs are marked by Victorian excess, and it was a delight to make something so simple, meaningful and well-made. I had been perfecting the design for a long time. I wear mine every day.

Spiral Promise Ring by Feral Strumpet

 

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

My secret identity as a tribal bellydancer has recently been revealed. I also love knitting, brewing beer and reading. I have been known to write a novel or two.

 

Hot Air Balloon Bookmark by Feral Strumpet

What handmade possession do you treasure the most?

This is the hardest question to answer! I live with handmade things all around me. I will always buy handmade things before I will go to the high street, whether it be perfume (yours!) or tea towels. Is it the Edward Gorey quilt my mother made for me? My new teeshirt by Raintower on Etsy or my constant companion, the Ring of Brodgar ring by Steven Cooper?

www.aurora-jewellery.co/steven-cooper-master-craftsman/ I can't say!

Black Sacred Heart Earrings by Feral Strumpet

 

 

Where can we find your jewelry and wanton whimsies for wildlings?

-- www.feralstrumpet.com (blog)
-- www.facebook.com/pages/Feral-Strumpet-on-Etsy/194855940556056 (facebook)
-- @feralstrumpet (twitter)
-- feralstrumpet.tumblr.com/ (tumblr)

 

Art Nouveau Heart Rosary Necklace by Feral Strumpet

Thank you so much, Ally!

*** All photographs courtsesy of and copyright of Ally Shaw of Feral Strumpet

Victorian Sugarplums: Happy Holidays!

Victorian Sugarplums from the kitchen of Cat Marx

This is an authentic sugarplum recipe from the Victorian Era.  I have made a few modern modifications to it. But these are true sugarplums.  Many people often hear the term and think it is plum, of some sort, as you will see that is not the case. I use all unsulphered fruits.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried apricots

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1 cup pitted dates

½ cup cranberries

½ cup golden raisins or plain raisins

2 tsp. orange zest

3 tablespoons of orange juice

¼ cup honey

¼ cup candied ginger…you may adjust according to taste

You may add these spices according to taste:

¼ tsp. nutmeg, ¼ tsp. cinnamon,¼ tsp. cardamom…you will also see this in some stores as cardamon...same thing

½ cup white organic sugar or fine turbinado sugar for rolling the sugarplums in.

You may also add a Tbsp. of rum or brandy to taste.

 

Thanks to most modern kitchens, we can chop all of this in a food processor.  Take each fruit and nut ingredient and the candied ginger and pulse in a food processor until chopped to an even medium texture. The fruit and nuts should begin to clump. Transfer to a large bowl and add the honey, orange juice, orange zest, desired spices, and rum or brandy if chosen, and mix well with a wooden spoon.  Roll by hand into bite sized balls and roll in the sugar.  This will make about 4 dozen or so sugarplums, less if you make the balls larger. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container lined in wax paper.  The longer you keep the sugarplums, the more refined the tastes seem to become as they meld.  I often wait 48 hours before serving them.  Enjoy and happy holidays!  XOXO Cat 

“Hobbit” Forming

When I was a child of twelve or thirteen, the first fantasy book that my parents gave me to read was “The Hobbit”.  I can remember staying up until 2:00 AM in my room reading about Bilbo and his band of adventuring dwarves….and of course the dragon.  I read and re-read the book many times and became hooked on high fantasy novels, eagerly devouring any book I could about dragons, wizards, brave warriors and the like. “The Hobbit” remains one of my favorite books to this day, and Tolkien my favorite author.

Last fall of 2011, I began working on a series of perfumes that would be inspired by this beloved book.  In early spring of this year, 2012, I released my first perfume in the series inspired by “The Hobbit”---”Dungeons Deep”, followed by “House of Healing”,  and soon after those, “The Halfling’s Party”, “Dragon’s Orb”, and “Black Arrow”, released this late fall.  I want to describe my creation process a little bit below.
 
My goal was to create a series of very complex and unique scents that would represent each of the free races of Middle Earth (Hobbits, Dwarves, Humans, and Elves), and Gandalf and Smaug as well.  I wanted them each to tell a mini story of portions of the novel. Each of the perfumes oils went through several incarnations before I had each one exactly the way I wanted it.

There are certain series of perfumes that I have worked on for over a year and this is one of them, and definitely a labor of love and my perfume ode to J.R.R. Tolkien and the world of “The Hobbit.”

"Dungeons Deep": Here I wanted to create a scent that would make you feel like you were in the throne hall of a great underground dwarven city, full of mystery and a warm spicy, slighty smoky earthiness.

Dungeons Deep Perfume Oil

The dwarf lords living in their halls of stone were great metalworkers, smiths, craftsmen, warriors, lovers of hospitality and gatherings, and honorable and proud to the end. This fantasy perfume is inspired by Thorin Oakenshield and the dwarf lords and dwarf warriors in The Hobbit. Inhale and you will find yourself surrounded by: A deep cavern hall covered in ancient moss, the scents of earth and fire, tempered with benzoin, and a sweet warm tobacco blended with unique spices. A Unisex scent that is dark and earthy upon first application and finishes with a magical, warm, sweet smokiness on the dry down.

****************
 "House of Healing": For the elves I wanted to capture a scent that was fresh and clean, green and floral combined, evoked a sense of peace and well-being, and reminded one of a forest with the lofty elven spires of Rivendell where a weary traveler could take their rest.

House of Healing Perfume Oil

The Elves who dwelt in a magnificent hidden valley near the foothills and mountains of mist, were great healers, lovers of peace and harmony, and blessed with grace and wisdom that extended to the dome of stars. This fantasy perfume is inspired by Rivendell, Elrond and all the Elven Lords and Ladies in The Hobbit. In this last safe refuge, one might breathe in the soft, earthy comforts of: wild iris, linden blossoms, fragrant green trees and grasses, fallen oaks leaves, and sweet morning dewdrops. Magical and serene.

****************
 “The Halfling’s Party”: This one was a lot of fun to work on as I used a lot of gourmand scent notes. Hobbits do love their food and drink and I wanted this perfume to be just like walking into Bilbo’s house and smelling fine food and drink, and the comforts of hearth and home. I wanted it to make the wearer feel as if they had come to join the Bilbo’s party with Gandalf and all the dwarves. I even included my photo of The Hobbit Hole at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival.

The Halfling's Party Perfume Oil
This fantasy perfume oil is inspired by The Hobbit and the characters of Bilbo and Frodo and their companions. Bring a friend or two, or four or maybe more to a generously hosted Halfling Party; they love to give as well as receive! Freshly buttered bread, harvest apples baked into a caramel tart, rum, red wine (for the wizard), and a light citrus with background notes of old polished wood, sweet tobacco leaf, and a dusting of oak wood roaring in a welcoming hearth...makes for a fine, comforting, gourmand scent that tips to the feminine side of the scale but can certainly be enjoyed by both sexes.

****************
 “Dragon’s Orb”: Creating this scent was a bit of challenge. I wanted notes to represent both the dragon, Smaug, and the Arkenstone. To me the dragon would be fiery and enigmatic, and the Arkenstone cool and magical. Here I combined main scent notes that evoke both concepts and work very well together. My website listing features the wonderful artwork of M. Beau Studio, created specifically for my perfume.

Dragon's Orb
Inspired by the wondrous white gem, the Arkenstone, sought by Thorin Oakenshield and guarded by Smaug the dragon of The Hobbit. Rich white amber, vetiver and softer greens evoke the beauty and earthiness of the gem, while spicy black pepper, juniper berries, several mysterious resin notes and herbs attest to the darkness of the dragon. A unisex scent that is spicy and warm, with a unique coolness on the dry down.

****************
And lastly I have “Black Arrow”:  I wanted this to represent Bard the bowman, the human who brought down Smaug with his spelled arrow. It had to be bold and intense and for this, I created my own special accord which I named Dragonfire. The perfume evokes the bravery of Bard trying to slay the dragon while the town around him is going up in flames. I had was great to be able to photograph model Apollo Hawthorne, who made a perfect representation of Bard for my concept.

Black Arrow Perfume Oil
Do you have the audacity to stand against the dragon? Inspired by Bard, the human who slew Smaug the dragon with his black arrow in The Hobbit; this is a bold yet unisex perfume oil, tending towards the masculine. Deep resins, blackened honey, and smoldering dragonfire envelop you in a daring, dark, and adventurous scent.

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Recently, the Barnes and Noble website, Spark Notes, requested my permission to showcase my perfumes inspired by “The Hobbit” on their website for an article on

unique Hobbit items “Inspired by the Shire”:

http://www.sparknotes.com/mindhut/2012/11/27/inspired-by-the-shire-check-out-these-hobbit-themed-novelties
 

The Hobbit inspired perfume sampler set of all five scents

 
I want to thank all of my fans and customers for their love and support of my perfume creations. Creating these and all my scents has been a true joy! Best wishes to you always! Cat xoxo



**Copyright 2010-present Deep Midnight Perfumes All Rights Reserved. The product descriptions, product names, notated photographic images, logos, banners and product/label designs are the intellectual property of “Deep Midnight Perfumes” and may not be reproduced in any way without written consent. 

THE CAT SLAVE: An Interview with Donna Baker and C.L.A.W.S.

Today I have an interview for you with Donna Baker, owner of the shop, THE CAT SLAVE, on etsy and C.L.A.W.S. (Cat Lovers Alliance for Welfare and Sterilization), a non-profit tax exempt 501.3c animal charity.  Donna and her daughter Wendy both have shops on etsy selling an array of steampunk and fantasy themed jewelry and other fun things to support the charity.  Deep Midnight Perfumes donates to C.L.A.W.S. I hope you enjoy reading and learning about this wonderful woman and her charity!

 

Filigree Necklace with Bottle Charms by The Cat Slave on etsy

How did you decide you wanted to rescue and provide for animals?

"There was a horrible place beyond any description in Nashville, TN that was the Metro Dog Pound. I knew of it for years but felt powerless to do anything about it.
Prior to that, all my life, I had picked up and fixed and homed for life animals (primarily cats) and felt like, "ok, this makes a difference".

In 1991 I ran across a gal who felt as I did about the dog pound and the war was on. We became the dog pounds worst nightmare. Cats were tortured and starved in the awful place (as were dogs) and hated.

Our efforts gained us some fellow warriors. For two years we kept the cats pulled out of the pound, vetted and placed in forever homes. It got hugely expensive, so I went to Nashville Humane to try to get them to help us. They did. I could go in there anytime as their agent and pull cats without paying the pull fee.

Finally after about 4 years, we (the core group) managed to pressure the health department and local government to train the staff (training, imagine!) about euthanasia technique, cleaning practices, and several other major changes like putting puppies and kittens on newspaper so their little feet would not go through the wire of the bottom of the cage, and separating  dogs, not by the day they came in but according to male/female, large/small, sick/not sick (yet). Then finally there came a new facility that was up to date and not down on the river where no one ever went.  The founding of C.L.A.W.S. grew out of that."

 

Spa/Grooming Day!

I am sure a lot is involved in the rescue process, but can you tell us a little bit about how you find and rescue animals?

"Early on it was from the dog pound, and then we worked with the shelter in fostering especially during kitten season.

For about the last 12-13 years we have moved mostly to TNR as we felt they needed our help more than the more friendly ones. We do not euthanize unless there is suffering. So over the years our focus has been on dislocated ferals, those who could not be released at the trapping site for various reasons, and have morphed into more of a sanctuary for disgruntled, an or special needs felines.

Since moving to the country 10 years ago, and living on a dead end road in a county that is all too unaware of spay/neuter, we have no problem finding needy animals.  We assist with traps, education and contacts to help people with their barn cats or any cat/kitten they find. Education is sorely needed in rural areas." 

Black Lace Choker by The Cat Slave on etsy
 

You are a registered 501.3c charity and raise funds for the animals you rescue through the designs you create. How did you come to create jewelry to support the charity you run?

"Before we moved to the country, being near a large city (Nashville), we had a great deal of support. The country is very, very different.   Mars/Nutro generously donates food to us and I, with a vast number of years in veterinary clinics and experience, can handle most things that arise with the animals. As all non-profits like ours there is never an overabundance of money so we pick up a lot of the cost of maintenance for our facility. Being in a county that does not even have a veterinarian is difficult.  However, have a country vet who is good to us and is available for emergencies. We are fortunate to have him."

Keepsake Gift Tag by The Faery Watcher on etsy

Please tell us little about what inspires you to create and/or rescue?

"The need for money for the animals guided me into making jewelry to generate funds for our rescue/sanctuary."

Filigree Mask Necklace by The Cat Slave on etsy

Describe your feelings when you rescue and place an animal in a new home?

"A forever home for a cat or kitten that had a hard start in life is very rewarding. Having had a pet sitting business for 18 years (before moving to the country) I had a pipeline to good homes very often.

Most people don’t realize how hard it is to find, screen and "read" prospective homes. Not everyone who wants a pet should not have one and we have do not problem turning someone down for a better situation. You learn what questions to ask, "Did you want an indoor cat or outdoor cat" (want indoor homes), have you had a cat before (wrong answer is "oh yeah, a lot of them".....ok where are they now?) Moving, remarriage, family changes etc. where they did not take their furred family member is instant disqualification. Being a committed pet owner who will keep their pet no matter what the inconvenience is all we will consider."

Stained Glass style Buttons by The Faery Watcher on etsy

Apart from designing beautiful jewelry and rescuing animals, what else do you enjoy doing?
"I love cottage gardening, ponds, politics, period piece movies, being in this beautiful setting in my dream log home:)"

Cat Angel Necklace by The Cat Slave on etsy

I know they are all so precious and sweet, but what animal you have rescued has touched your life the most?

"Now that’s a hard one. If I could only pick one, it would be Picnic from the Women’s Prison in Nashville, TN. A guard had tried to kill her and she suffered permanent injuries, was very, very angry, could not be released to a farm (had no lower jaw and blind in one eye) so she lived with us and became a little love sponge. I knew every hug and kindness we gave her might in some way counteract the horrible things she had gone through at the prison. She passed away quietly, here at home, in her bed, 6 years ago. We miss her and always smile when we think about her."

Picnic

Where can we find your lovely jewelry and information on your charity?

"My daughter, Wendy, and I have shops on Etsy,

thecatslave.etsy.com 
thefaerywatcher.etsy.com

We exhibit together for shows: I am Donna, she is Wendy, and together we are Donwyn Creations.

We have a presence on other sites, iCraft.ca, Art Fire, Zibbet, and Goodsmiths. Shops on these other sites are not full for lack of time as the animals come first. Everything else comes after the animals.

On FB I am thecatslave and Donna (Hedge) Baker, and on Twitter I am "catslaveiam".
Wendy has a FB page, thefaerywatcher, Wendy Baker-Smith."

Metal and Lace Goddess Necklace by The Faery Watcher on etsy

Thank you for the inteview, Donna, and for all the good work you do for animals! 

Dear readers, I hope you have enjoyed this interview.  Best wishes--Cat xoxo ;)

** All photos courtesy of and copyright of Donna Baker and Wendy Baker-Smith