Custom Zombie's Undead Ramblings

Lucky Number 13 Sale!

2012-01-06T09:40:00.000-05:00

After a year of slacking (or a year of being so busy that I can't manage everything efficiently...whichever way you prefer to look at it) I am bringing back the Lucky #13 Sale! :D

On the 13th of every month I will be offering a Buy One Get One Free deal on my Original Art Prints! And if it happens to be Friday the 13th (like this coming Friday!), you'll get a free gift too!! I'm changing things up a little bit this time around though - for the better! Now you'll get a free print with ANY purchase of $12 or more!

Please put the name of the print you'd like for free in the Message to Seller box. You can see all of the options for your free print here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CustomZombie?section_id=6065168

A Discount and New Product! :D

2011-09-05T16:20:00.000-04:00

Now through October 3rd, use code HWPREP20 to receive 20% off your entire purchase in my CustomZombie shop! Get ready for Halloween with cemetery photos, zombie portraits, divination tools, and pumpkin patterns! I'll be adding new items regularly so check back often!

Also, I'm now offering originally designed pumpkin patterns for sale - only $2 each. More to come soon!

Give Me Your Suggestions :)

2011-05-17T21:42:00.000-04:00

This is an open call for suggestions for my costume series. What would you like to see me put my spin on? Male, female, unisex, or couples costumes...doesn't matter. I'm not saying that every suggestion will make the cut but I will seriously consider each and every one I receive - so comment away! :)

Etsy's Dark Side Street Team: "It Came From Beyond!"

2011-04-06T15:50:00.001-04:00

So the month of March was way busy and hectic for me and I was a slacker when it came to doing the Dark Team's monthly exhibition....oops. To *attempt* to make up for it I've put together a couple of treasuries featuring the items submitted for March, along with a few extras! Enjoy!

'It Came From Beyond!' by CustomZombie

An "Etsy Dark Team" collection!

The Drifter theshadowfarm $145.00	Nosferatu Vampire n... FableAndFury $26.00	Sea Serpent and Dor... BlacknickSculp... $600.00
Evil eyes bustle tu... SistersOfTheMo... $45.00	Spooky Creepy Faces... agonysdecay $3.75	Born on the Chime H... thehauntedstud... $5.00
SALE this Week Worl... butchvsjoel $75.00	CUSTOM Mini Zombie ... LivingDeadGirl... $50.00	My Pretty Zombie Da... mrsevils $5.00
Reserved Roger99 Th... darklingdoll $18.00	Miniature Bird Cage... NacreousAlchem... $17.50	2 FUN Mini Zombie H... HumphreysHandm... $8.25
CUSTOM Mini Me Coff... CoffinCritters $28.95	SALE Tentacle Skirt wingsofsin $60.00	Men's Organic H... TheMightySquir... $30.00
Horror Girls - Mumm... thezombified $6.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

'It Came From Beyond (spillover)!' by CustomZombie

Extras from the "Etsy Dark Team" collection! ;)

Tar Phoenix V : The... theshadowfarm $85.00	YORICKS SKULL (Haml... SteamBathFacto... $10.00	Zombie Severed Fing... lilysbydesign $7.95
MAGGIE IN THE ATTIC... CoffinCritters $18.95	Queen Nefaria OOAK ... darklingdoll $79.00	Mini Scary Creepy E... LivingDeadGirl... $50.00
CRAZY Zombie Brains... HumphreysHandm... $25.75	cthulhu sock monste... darklingdoll $25.00	Cemetery Scene Box NacreousAlchem... $25.00
Tentacle Hood Wrap ... wingsofsin $55.00	Mr. Bones Winter Wo... NacreousAlchem... $30.00	Bite Size - Green S... LivingDeadGirl... $25.00
Stoneware Frankenst... skeletaldropki... $18.00	The Tattered Lurker... wingsofsin $70.00	Cthulhu Baby Hat Kn... HumphreysHandm... $25.00
Metaluna Mutant Lin... MonstrousIndus... $8.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Sherlock Bones!

2011-03-18T11:28:00.000-04:00

I have been watching a ton of Sherlock Holmes shows/movies lately (my husband is a fanatic) and was inspired to make this book cover parody. I'm hoping to end up with an entire series of this type of digital art print. :)

By the way, if you're a Holmes fan and you haven't seen the Grenada BBC series starring Jeremy Brett then you are just WRONG! ;)

Click the caption below the picture to be taken to the listing!

The Adventures of Sherlock Bones: The Dead-Headed League

Dia de los Muertos Party Costume

2011-03-10T14:48:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine decided that she wants her Halloween party this year to be Dia De Los Muertos themed. She put out a call for help on a costume and I started putting some thought into it. There are a few ways you could go with the costume and I wanted to put a twist on it. Read on to find out what cool stuff I came across!

Instead of the traditional Mexican dancer dress I thought we’d go with a more pinup/rockabilly style to add a sexy flair. I found this awesome piece on eBay from seller c-unique.

I also did some looking into the traditional route for those of you who might prefer it. Another great eBay find from ramseyscreations. All of the accessories I have picked out are meant to go with the rockabilly dress. In my opinion, you would only need the hair flower and makeup to finish the look if you go with the Mexican dancing dress.

You could go with whatever shoes suit your taste best but the addition of dulcemuertebows’s cute little clips would be a great idea!

What woman can leave the house without a purse? This adorable clutch from deluxejunque contrasts with the dress but keeps with the sugar skull theme.

Artistamuerta’s “Pretty In Pink” muertas rosary necklace is perfect for this costume, as is this fantastic charm bracelet by cosmictrinkets! And what Day of the Dead outfit could be complete without the requisite hair flower? A big, attention drawing one from Mandizzle fits the bill.

Now onto the sugar skull makeup! This link features several different tutorials for doing your own. There are many different styles – just find one that suits you best and go for it! And for those of you who don’t want to fool with makeup, Masquefaire offers many different masks that get the job done for you!

Put it all together and you will be one hot calavera!

A Review - "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: Dreadfully Ever After"

2011-03-06T09:36:00.000-05:00

The story opens with our newly married protagonists, Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy, defending their village from an army of flesh-eating “unmentionables.” But the honeymoon has barely begun when poor Mr. Darcy is nipped by a rampaging dreadful.
Elizabeth knows the proper course of action is to promptly behead her husband (and then burn the corpse, just to be safe). But when she learns of a miracle antidote under development in London, she realizes there may be one last chance to save her true love—and for everyone to live happily ever after.

Steve Hockensmith has done it again! I didn’t think the feeling could be any greater than it was when I finished “Dawn of the Dreadfuls” but it absolutely was! The feeling is one of simply not wanting a book to end. It’s one I’ve not had often but it was so strong when I finished “Dreadfully Ever After” that it was nearly painful. I LOVE this book!

The action doesn’t take long to start – only ten pages into the book the unmentionables infect Elizabeth’s beloved husband, Darcy. This is the event the entire book centers around as the Bennett family does their best to save him by putting their trust in Lady Catherine, befriending ninjas, and doing whatever necessary to lay hands on the fabled cure. Twists and shocking turns abound in the manner I’ve come to expect from the PPZ series. While we see less of Mrs. Bennett in this installment, we see much more of Kitty and Mary. Hockensmith develops their characters nicely, turns them around from the dislikeable (or at least, forgettable) personalities they had been before, and makes one nearly as fond of them as Austen made us of Lizzy and Jane.

London gets turned upside down, Lady Catherine finally gets what’s coming to her, and the whole family – with the exception of Mrs. Bennett – finds the happiness they all deserve. I am, however, saddened knowing that this is the last we are intended to hear of my favorite family from the Regency era! I thoroughly recommend “Dreadfully Ever After” to anyone who can read and if you haven’t yet indulged in “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” or “Dawn of the Dreadfuls” I suggest you do so! I suspect I will be reading all three again very soon: they have become my favorite books with “Dreadfully Ever After” unexpectedly slipping into the #1 spot!

"Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: Dreadfully Ever After" will be released on March 22nd, 2011. You can pre-order from Amazon now. You can also follow the book on Facebook to see what other early reviewers have to say about it!

Pirates vs Ninjas

2011-02-10T17:16:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows that pirate and ninjas are mortal enemies so what could make for a more interesting party?! My friends Will and Natasha wanted to host a Christmas party but they wanted to set it apart from all the rest – a Pirates vs Ninjas theme is how they accomplished that task.

I guess pirates and ninjas CAN get along!

Oh…maybe not!

I was lucky to know about this party early enough that I could hit up some Halloween clearance sales and get some custom orders from Etsy for our costumes. Plus I had a ton of accessories from our Halloween 2009 gypsy costumes that worked great for this purpose! My underbust corset/vest came from CreationsByAngelia, the shirt from ohanasewing, and my earrings from Sillycut.

Our budget pirates - not too bad!

We had always wanted to do pirate costumes but had just never got around to it. I definitely see us building on them though, since we had to do these on a major budget after our Halloween spending. Things we’d like to add:

• A sword for my costume
• A replica pistol for each of us (mine was hollow plastic)
• Actual cuffed boots for us both instead of covers
• A gold tooth cover for me
• A convincing clip-on earring for him
• A real jacket for him instead of costume quality

I think everyone had a blast with the costumes and decorations and it really made for a unique, non-Halloween, party! They are thinking of making a tradition and I truly hope they do!

Ninjas were definitely in the minority that night (because everyone knows that pirates are WAY cooler!)

Avast ye hearties, yo ho!

Ever seen pirates and ninjas playing Rock Band? Well now you have!

Time Warp to Halloween 2010!

2011-01-10T19:55:00.000-05:00

Now that my busy season is out of the way I finally have time to revisit my Halloween costume! If you followed my blog last year you know that I did an entire costume series and you may have been left wondering just what I was going to be. Well, my husband made the decision for me (since we normally like to do the matching thing) and we went with Steampunk!

My necklace is missing in this picture.

At the point he decided on it, I had already made my Steampunk Halloween post (see http://customzombie.blogspot.com/2010/06/steampunk-halloween.html) so, basically, all of my creative work was done and the only thing left was to put together the pieces. Unfortunately, I couldn’t afford the awesome skirt featured in the original post. But I do have an awesome grandma that is a fantastic seamstress! So I bought my materials, packed up my machine and went to see her.

I made a few other changes to my original vision as well: the addition of half gloves, losing the ring, leaving off the spats, and switching the propeller necklace out for a compass one. I also painted a nerf gun to fit the part but it’s not really visible in my pictures.

I was extremely pleased with how the costume turned out (even though people kept asking me if I was supposed to be Amelia Earhart) and would be happy to have another chance to wear it!

I wish I could have found some affordable spats for him.

My husband’s costume was much more difficult to come up with, mostly because he can’t make up his mind that far out from Halloween. In all fairness, I started asking in April and he didn’t decide until July. We went with a scientist/genius persona. You know the type – absorbed in his work, a bit disheveled and distracted. We grabbed the pants, shirt, pocket watch and shoes from a previous costume (Victorian-era Dracula) and me/my grandma made his vest. A quick jaunt through the interwebs produced a bowler, arm bands, goggles, and non-prescription glasses. I picked up the magnifying tool attached to the glasses at a hardware store. We bought a Nerf Maverick N-Strike to paint for the purpose. It turned out great! His costume was a hit and he was very pleased with it, which is a feat in itself!

This was our first Steampunk adventure but I don’t believe it will be our last…we had way too much fun!

MIA for the Holidays

2010-12-31T11:09:00.001-05:00

Wow, it's been a while since I've posted! I'm sorry to leave you guys hanging - things have just been extremely hectic during the holiday season. I'm busy today preparing for my New Year's party but I'll try to get some actual content up this coming week. Topics to look forward to: 2010's Halloween costume and the return of the costume series, Pirates vs Ninjas, and Etsy item features. Hope that's piqued your interest!

Have an awesome, safe New Year and I hope 2011 will be a great year for us all!

Q&A with Noiseless Clothing

2010-12-13T18:08:00.000-05:00

Don’t want to support Hot Topic but love band shirts? Look no further! Noiseless Clothing fits the bill and you can bet that you won’t show up to the next concert wearing the same shirt as half the audience if you shop with Steph. She also makes movie shirts and other one-of-a-kind creations!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
NC: My name is Steph and I am the only person behind my Etsy shop, Noiseless Clothing. I’ve been sewing for a little over two years; my mom taught me the basics of how to use a sewing machine and patterns, etc, and the rest is completely self taught by trial and error and a heck of a lot of practice! Noiseless isn’t my full time job (boo hiss!) I work a minimum wage retail job full time to fund my obsession of band t-shirts and fabric. In my spare time (when I’m not sewing!) I love going to gigs, baking cupcakes and reading. I’m a simple girl at heart!

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
NC: I mostly make music inspired, one of a kind, women’s clothing with a few accessories here and there. As my line is music inspired, I make a lot of clothes out of band t-shirts but I also like to make anything that would fall under the ‘alternative’ stereotype whether that be emo, goth, punk, scene, etc. In the future I’d like to expand into jewelry and would also like to try my hand at screen-printing my own designs.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
NC: I take inspiration from so many things but my biggest inspiration is by far music. I go to a lot of gigs in my spare time, and I always used to get so fed up of boys always getting the best band t-shirts. So, I started cutting them up and turning them into something unique and sexy! If I’m making a top from a band t-shirt, I like to listen to the bands’ music while I sew. I find it gives me inspiration for the overall style of the piece I’m working on. As for what keeps me motivated, it’s simply a love of sewing. It’s all I think about and I honestly don’t think there is anything else I would rather do with my life.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
NC: Every compliment I receive is the greatest! The compliments that I treasure the most are from people that I’ve never met. Family and friends are great at complimenting my work but they’re kinda obliged to! I think it’s lovely that complete strangers take time out from their busy lives to drop me an email just to say that they love my clothes. The fact that people like something that I dreamt up and created from scratch is amazing. And as silly as it may sound, it kind of restores my faith in humanity and reassures me that there are genuinely nice people in the world!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
NC: It wasn’t a sudden realization, more of a conscious effort to NOT be like other kids. I gradually got more and more tired of following trends and trying to fit in with everyone else and it stopped making sense to me. I couldn’t understand why everyone wanted to be the same when we were all so naturally different. Around this time I discovered rock music and that greatly influenced my style and I just drifted apart from the crowd. This of course came with its downsides as I was a target for bullies but I point blank refused to conform. As difficult as it was being a victim of bullying, I think it really benefitted me in the long run as I’m now more certain of who I am and what I believe in compared to other people.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
NC: On the five days a week when I’m at work, I go to work (well duh!) come home around 6, grab some food and sew until 10/11 at night. I have a Blackberry so all my emails and convo’s from Etsy get forwarded to my phone so when I’m on my lunch break at work, I’m still focusing on Noiseless. On my days off, I do all the promoting and internet stuff, picture taking and pattern cutting. I try really hard to stick to this routine so I can have new items added to my shop on a regular basis. Oh and I occasionally manage to fit in a social life!

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
NC: My obsession for vampires is slowly beginning to take over my life haha! I’m a huge fan of trashy vampire novels and movies and I even have a t-shirt saying ‘I love vampires’ so I think it’s safe to say I much prefer vampires. But not the sparkly ones. Don’t get me started on sparkly vampires!

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
NC: I know it’s not generally a horror film but I’m going to say Wednesday Addams from the Addams’ Family. I looked her up on Wikipedia and is said “Wednesday is originally a pale, dark-haired, grim-looking little girl with a fascination with death and the macabre”. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have an unhealthy obsession with the macabre and I just so happen to be dark haired and super pale!

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
NC: I don’t really know much about either as they are both American ‘monsters’ but I think the UK version would be the Loch Ness Monster which I don’t believe to be real as most sightings have been proved to be fake. So on that theory alone, I’ll say neither.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
NC: In my mind, a brief rain shower will instantly rust all the robots and I’m assuming they also have an off switch? So I’m going to say aliens.

CZ: What scares you?
NC: I’m TERRIFIED of spiders! No matter how small and pathetic they are, I will still scream and run out the room like a total girl haha! There was a spider in my car once while I was driving and it’s a miracle I didn’t crash. I don’t know what it is about them that creeps me out so much. Possibly the fact that they have too many legs or possibly the way they scuttle around so unnaturally. Just thinking of them is giving me shivers! Next question…..

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
NC: I’m gonna say with you. If you can’t beat them, join them right?

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
NC: My etsy shop - http://www.noiselessclothing.etsy.com/
My myspace page - www.myspace.com/noiselessclothing

Q&A with Living Dead Girl Nicole

2010-12-07T17:54:00.000-05:00

All things blood, gore, and braaaaaaains can be found in Living Dead Girl Nicole’s shop! If you are a zombie fan, or horror in general, it’s a must-shop place. Read about her and what drives her art here and be sure to follow the links below!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
LDGN: I find beauty in all things dark, spooky or mythical. Aspects of that are reflected not only in my style but also in my art work. When other little girls wanted to be ballerinas I wanted to be Elvira.... I still do! Some of my favorite things are horror movies/horror movie conventions, bats, Halloween (I'm a little obsessed and keep the décor out all year round), themed costume parties, Renaissance Faires, Tattoos (getting them and the whole art form itself), rock music/concerts (classic to heavy), fantasy and dark art, Universal Monsters and The Munsters. I love all things Rob Zombie, Tim Burton and Jim Henson. I have been with my high school sweetheart and soul mate, Frank, for 12 years this fall. We will be celebrating our 1 year wedding anniversary this Halloween. We have 2 cats, Ichabod and Sabbath, and live in our townhome filled of horror movie memorabilia, art and interesting collections of fun creepy things. My Mother-in-law says our house is like a "museum" ha ha. I love that!

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
LDGN: I like to draw, paint, scrapbook, craft and do anything that gets my creative blood flowing. So because of that my shop is a nice mix of various types of my artwork. I have prints of my celebrity portraits and misc drawings in my shop. I also have zombie head props/decorations which I make from rubber liquid latex and other fun materials. I also started a line in my shop I call Dead Girl Decay which consists of wearable art and accessories. Most of the items are for that dark spooky girl who still loves to express her feminine side or that pin up girl who likes a little danger in her wardrobe. As I create my shop will continue to expand. There really is no set limit on what I want to create and sell which I think makes my shop unique. It is always changing with new items to hopefully keep customers coming back for more.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?

LDGN: My artistic passion to create is really what is the spine of my shop. It’s what inspires and holds it all together. Since the first time I picked up a crayon as a little girl and started to kick ass in coloring contests I have been inspired to do art. My Dad, being an artist himself, was a huge inspiration to me and my art growing up. When other little kids were learning how to color in the lines he was showing me how he shades and blends colors. Because I like creating a wide range of art I can switch up the items I make which allows me more room for expression without feeling overwhelmed by one medium. My celebrity portraits depict characters from cinema, television and music that I admire. My zombie head prop decorations come from my love of horror and wanting so badly to be a part of the horror movie industry. My Dead Girl Decay wearable art line was actually inspired by my own personal spooky but feminine style. I have a arm sleeve (tattoo) that consists of dark beautiful woman from cinema and television with a banner that says “Pretty Scary”. All the women I admire that are dark, mysterious and odd but still drop dead gorgeous. It really expresses who I am as a person and how they have inspired me to be me. I wanted to create items that I feel women like myself would wear.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?

LDGN: Oh wow this is a tough one. I think it was a cross between a couple famous encounters. One when I met Cassandra Peterson. I gave her the portrait I drew of her as Elvira. And when she looked at it she said “Man this has been an art filled weekend. I have gotten a lot of great pieces.. but this one… this one.. is REEEEAAALY good!!!”. At that moment I realized a little girls dream could come true and I really think my heart literally skipped a beat. Another would be when I gave George Romero his “George” Zombie Head that I made of him. His manager walked me up to the front of the line when I showed him what I had to give to him. And when I walked up there I said “you always make zombies for all of us fans.. so I made you your very own zombie”. His eyes lit up. And he was like “WOW YOU made THIS!!! This is GREAT!!!” And he laughed and got a complete kick out of it and insisted we take a photo together with it. He displayed it on his table at the convention for the rest of the day and every time I walked by and saw it I got all giddy.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?

LDGN: When I took my Barbie dolls and colored them with my Crayola markers to make them look “different”. When the Jem and the Holograms and their enemies the Misfits came out I was in little girl doll heaven ha ha. I liked them because they were different. They had bright colorful hair and makeup and flashy odd punk rocker clothes and they looked nothing like my Barbie. To this day I still enjoy looking nothing like my Barbie.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?

LDGN: Every day is a new day to me with new opportunities. But typically I work full time in an office during the day (blah). My weekends are usually when I get the most time to unwind and do things as well as my art. My husband set me up a whole art area in our dungeon (some people call them basements) where I can go and hide and get lost in the creative madness. Art allows me to let my mind go of any stress and escape from the realities of the world. It truly makes me happy and keeps me sane.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?

LDGN: Ever since I was a little girl and I watched the Lost Boys I was intrigued. My all time favorite is Bram Stoker’s Dracula (the book that started it all and also the movie). My wedding gown was even based off of Mina’s red dress in the film and the theme of our wedding was “Love Never Dies”. There is just something about a vampire that is dangerous, mysterious and sexy that sucks you in (no pun intended). I am also a big zombie fan. I always say if they attacked I would hope I just got bit so I could join 'em and not fight 'em. Yeah so you might drool a little and live off brains and flesh, but why spend the rest of your life running in fear.. when you could be the one that is chasing everyone down and being feared. But if I had the choice between the two I would definitely want to spend the rest of my days as one of Dracula's brides.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
LDGN: I would definitely pick Baby Firefly from House of 1000 Corpses and the Devil’s Rejects. I like how she can lure you in with her charm but the minute you piss her off - watch out! In ways I am the same way. I can be nice to you but the minute you cross me it's over. Not to mention I am a huge horror fan and I love the concept of her killing…….she laughs in your face and still looks hot while doing it! Sheri Moon Zombie also happens to be one of my idols. I simply adore her. I actually have a Baby Firefly tattoo on my leg and have met her a couple of times. She is simply a beautiful person all around hands down and amazing to her fans. If I was famous I would want to be the same way.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
LDGN: I think Sasquatch is more likely to be real (his "image" looks like a stage of evolution anyways ha ha) but I would hope that El Chupacabra was real because I find it more intriguing.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
LDGN: Most definitely Aliens! I am sure they are already have a plan up their sleeves for 2012.

CZ: What scares you?
LDGN: I can handle all the spooky things that go bump in the night. I am more or less afraid of getting Alzheimer’s and not being able to remember the life I lived or the people I love. I know it’s a lot more serious of an answer than saying I am scared of spiders or clowns… but it’s truly my biggest fear.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
LDGN: Well I am already a living dead girl!! So Go TEAM UNDEAD!

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
LDGN:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LivingDeadGirlNicole
http://livingdeadgirlnicoleart.blogspot.com/

Q&A with AlreadyDead

2010-11-29T16:53:00.000-05:00

Love sugar skulls? Zombies? If you answered “Yes” to either of those you HAVE to see this shop! Anything Shayna Nelson (the artist behind Already Dead) gets her hands on gets transformed into something macabre – from porcelain cherubs to religious plaques. Read on for the juicy details, then be sure to check out her links!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
AD: I am a boring single mom of 2 who doesn’t look like it! I live in Virginia and I'm a TOTAL hermit. I don't do anything except shop at thrift stores pretty much. Poking around for more stuff to paint! I love thunderstorms and I HATE spiders!

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
AD: I sell mostly Day of the Dead type art and kitschy religious stuff. I love bright colors so most of my items are DOTD looking anyway, without even trying. I love making plaster ornaments and sardine tin nichos are pretty much an instant satisfaction art!

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
AD: I have NO motivation what-so-ever most of the time. It just hits me in spurts I guess. Most of the time I just want to jump off a bridge or something. Halloween is an obvious reason to make more creepies, but the few $'s I make from it just funds another thrift store trip!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
AD: "Never seen anything like it before!" ...that's pretty darn cool.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
AD: In Sunday school. When all the other kids were gaping mouthed, listening to a story of the Angel Gabriel coming out of the flames...I was like...."So.....wait a minute, you are telling me that this man was fireproof?" All the other kids HATED me from then on and I was politely asked to leave the class. The rest of regular school sucked a** so bad... I think I blocked it all out.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
AD: Rip myself out of bed at 7am to get my daughter in school...gargle, wash, and rinse with coffee....entertain the 2 year old so I can paint a bit WHILST fending off attacks from my bird, Tika. Listen to children scream and yell and throw fits until bed...more painting or not...depending on how much the kids screamed....then poke around online a bit and niters.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
AD: I don't prefer either I guess. It would suck to meet either, but I like painting zombie stuff way more.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
AD: None. I'm a cross between Tank Girl and Mrs. Cleaver.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
AD: Oh poo. Neither, that's all crap. BUT there is some SCARY SH*T living down deep in the ocean! And those are really real. Really.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
AD: Robots. Aliens would just be like..."Oh look we missed one”, and zap us.

CZ: What scares you?
AD: Spiders. Kids screaming. And zombie sheep. They were in a movie I saw recently and they scared the SH*T out of me.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
AD: I will have used my self-destruct button at that point. I will be of NO use or help to anyone.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
AD: My Etsy, Already Dead
Blog~~ http://44chicken.blogspot.com/
FaceBook~~ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Already-Dead-on-Etsy/296103948600#!/pages/Already-Dead-on-Etsy/296103948600?ref=mf
Twitter~~ http://twitter.com/44chicken

Busy Busy Busy

2010-11-24T10:19:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA for nearly two weeks! I've had content planned and everything - just haven't found the time to make it happen. I had planned on starting back the Etsy interviews after Halloween and I've got three wrote and ready to go. I promise they will go up soon!

I had also planned on doing a little piece about my Halloween costume, which was inspired by one of my costume pieces from earlier in the year. If anyone is interested I can put it up some time in December.

So to my readers, please be patient with me through the rest of the year! My calendar is booked with one thing or another for all of December (including a Pirate vs Ninjas party which should make for some interesting reading!) and my posting may be sporadic. I WILL get back on track next year - it'll be my New Year's resolution. ;)

Oh! And don't miss out on all the great deals from Etsy's Dark Side this weekend. Black Friday through Cyber Monday you can find crazy good sales from participating shops (including 20% off everything in my store!) See which shops and what deals here:
http://etsysdarksideteam.blogspot.com/2010/11/black-friday-to-cyber-monday-2010-edt.html

Holiday Shopping Made Easy (Or Easier, At Least!)

2010-11-11T16:30:00.000-05:00

I put together a few Stocking Stuffer Gift Guides to help people buy for those offbeat loved ones. All items are $10 or less and they are all made by members of Etsy's Dark Side team. Check them out for some great finds! Just click the picture to be taken to the site - from there you can click individual items for more info or to purchase!

Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide For HER

Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide For HIM

Dave Lowe's Haunt

2010-11-04T18:01:00.000-04:00

Dave Lowe is another example of “talent overload”! His haunt is one of my biggest inspirations because he dreams up a lot of budget-friendly props that still look fantastic! Who else could imagine a FedEx box as a tombstone or a plastic champagne glass as an apothecary jar stem? Take a look at these pictures and let them speak for themselves!

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
DL: Creatively, It's the only holiday so open to interpretation being based on the spooky unknown. It has its traditions and clichés, but the ordinary can be spun into folklore with good imagination. On Halloween day, you just don't watch a leaf fall from a tree in front of you, you wonder if there is something in the tree that made it fall. Personally, It's the only month of the year I don't have to clean up so carefully and worry about CSI sniffing around... the mess is just "decoration."

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
DL: I prefer to call it an October holiday-themed temporary outdoor public art installation. It started back in the mid '90's when I placed an electric chair and coffin I had made for the set of a Sci Fi channel show called "Sci Fi Buzz" on the lawn. The neighborhood kids went crazy for it and asked if there was going to be more...I got bit by the "haunt" bug. I still have the electric chair and it's used every year. It's the oldest prop in the display. When I was a little trick or treater, just a single carved pumpkin on a doorstep was magical, I really believed in the folklore of the holiday. Now it's fun creating some of that magic for kids.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
DL: Michael. When I first saw HALLOWEEN it was one of the last years I trick or treated and his hunting ground of Haddonfield looked like my suburban New York 'hood making him an even scarier character. I'm a bit biased though having seen the movie in the late '70's and how it inspired the entire masked maniac killer film genre that followed. I'd only ever say Jason, if he's wearing a Michael Myers mask. I do like Jason though, both guys are featured in my display. I've always imagined they're step brothers and Freddy Kruger's the illegitimate dad... that's the ultimate prequel movie surprise ending in my mind.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
DL: That's tough one... each year spawns the new creation and the favorite that October. If I had to choose it would be my grandmother up in the attic. I'm waiting a few more years for the mummification to look just perfect before she officially goes on display. Fingers crossed for 2012 or 2013!

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
DL: The evil laughter my girlfriend had when she first heard the screams of little kids visiting my haunt. One reason she's my fiancée now and one reason she scares me to this day as well.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
DL: Candy corn, it's the Christmas fruit cake of Halloween.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
DL: Well, about 11 months of thinking and talking about it, and then a 2 week late September to early October manic storm of crazed hysterical creation, followed by a Xanax overdose on November 1st.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
DL: I could list a 1001 "artistic" things, but it's really the 1001 reactions from kids over the years to my display that makes me love decorating. One year, an SUV stopped while I was out front. The mom driving pointed to the 3 little faces looking out the backseat window and said jokingly "You owe me gas money. They make me drive by everyday after school to see your yard." Those moments inspire me to run back into the garage and make something new that night to have on the lawn the next morning.

CZ: Morticia or Lily Munster?
DL: Elvira, best of both.

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
DL: They used to be. Every year, the first day I'd start decorating became a family get together. All would come over for coffee, sit on the porch and just watch...not helping at all and talk about how insane I was. I got tired of it. Now they're also in the attic with Grandma.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
DL: Creating a good fictional back story or theme and creating props that tell the tale. Something I could use as a title. A story that would keep the authorities' suspicions at bay when my family in the attic does finally go on display one year.

You can keep up with Dave’s Halloween progress (and other madness!) on his blog: http://davelowe.blogspot.com/

Love Manor

2010-11-03T14:04:00.000-04:00

I didn’t get all of my haunt features done in October…things just got too busy that last week. What that means for you guys is that Halloween is extended through this week! Today I’m featuring Love Manor and then you can expect a piece on Dave Lowe’s Haunt (or The Unnamed Haunt That No One Dare Name Because It's So Haunted ;) haha) in a day or two. So without further ado…

Johnny Love’s “Love Manor” is a giant piece of Halloween eye-candy. His photography is also phenomenal so even if you can’t see it in person you can still get the creepy vibe right from your computer screen. :)

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
LM: I think Halloween is one of my favorite holidays because of many things. First, I love how creative you can be with your decorating/prop building. Pretty much anything goes! Second, there's a feel of magic and wonder in the air, like anything's possible.

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
LM: I started decorating for Halloween many many years ago, before I can really remember. I remember decorating our hotel room in Florida when we stayed there in October when I was maybe 7. We put a huge jack o' lantern in the window and I dressed up like a ninja. Now, maybe within the past 6 years, I have really taken my decorating to a whole new level and have since been known as a "Home Haunter". It actually all started when I was browsing Yahoo! one day I saw their "Hot Searches", the first one being "Halloween Decorating Projects". Through that I found The Halloween Monster List and was, needless to say, hooked.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
LM: Michael Myers is definitely a classic amongst my family. I actually live within a few blocks of Tommy Doyle's home on Orange Grove here in Hollywood.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
LM: Anything vintage. I have collected decorations for many many years, many of which have been passed down to me from prior generations. I do, however, always say that the best decorations are not found in the Halloween isle at the store, but beyond it.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
LM: I think one of my favorite memories was after the trick or treaters had come through and were all home enjoying their collections of candy, I went outside into the cemetery and took a seat on the mausoleum and sat there, watching the fog weave through the tall grass, the fireflies fluttering through the bushes, the ambient sounds of crickets, frogs and the far away howling winds. When all of a sudden a hearse drove by, stopped, and whomever was inside took a moment to enjoy the display before they continued their journey on through the night.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
LM: Definitely a tough question. I'm a sucker for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. However I remember a lady used to hand out hot cider and caramel apples on our street, that was definitely the ultimate.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
LM: The entire year. I'm always thinking about it!

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
LM: I draw my inspiration from many things and people. I've always loved Disney and the creative displays and things they have created through the many years they've been around. I always look to The Haunted Mansion whenever I need some creativity. I've always loved Martha Stewart, knowing that Halloween is her favorite holiday is always encouraging. There are also many home haunters out there to which my hat must be tipped to!

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
LM: Morticia Addams. I love how the light casts across her eyes.

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
LM: They definitely share the insanity with me.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
LM: Many things of which I cannot tell. Everyone should be in for a surprise this year though!

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
LM: Please be sure to check out www.LoveManor.com and checkout my Twitter, Facebook, Blog and Flickr pages (all accessible from the front page of the website)! Comments and views are greatly appreciated!

Ugh

2010-11-02T09:26:00.000-04:00

I am so far behind on EVERYTHING! Halloween prep takes up so much of my time that everything else gets neglected. So now, even though all I want to do is sleep, I have fifty thousand things to catch up on. One of those things being posting the haunt features that I didn't get around to in October! Congratulations! The Halloween season will be extended for you guys for another week! ;) I'll try to get one up later today and hopefully the other will go up tomorrow. Sorry for dropping the ball last week!

Mourning Rose Manor

2010-10-29T11:03:00.000-04:00

Mourning Rose Manor is definitely a favorite of mine! The use of colored lighting is spot on and the imagery is simply haunting. You just don’t know what your eye will be drawn to next! I’m really looking forward to seeing what’s in store for 2010 – though I understand that if you’re in the area (Simi Valley, CA) you can check it out every night through Halloween!

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
MRM: I've always been into Halloween - pretty much since birth. My grandmother did costumes for the local theaters in whatever town they happened to be in, so it's genetic.

As far as haunting is concerned, I would say I really started (although very cheesy and small scale) about 15 years ago. It really skyrocketed after we built the crypt in 2004.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
MRM: Michael Myers - hands down. I actually didn't see the original Halloween until about 3 years ago (my head hung in shame), but it was still scary. However, Jason still is terrifying....I think it's Michael Myers slow deliberate walk that just gets to you.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
MRM: My favorite prop of mine is my FCG, Della. I can sit and watch her all night long and be fascinated.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
MRM: My favorite memory of my haunt was actually last year and has nothing to do with kids. Two older women came down later in the evening, obviously a mother and daughter. The mother was walking with a cane very, very gingerly. She was telling me how happy it makes her to see our haunt every year and that she never misses it. You understand that kids are fascinated by what we do...they don't always have much to compare it with. Having an older woman be so appreciative and excited about our display just made my year.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
MRM: Anything with chocolate is the ultimate Halloween candy - but if I have to choose - Baby Ruth.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
MRM: Every year varies as far as how much time we put in to it. Last year was terrible because of my husband and I both having surgery. In 2008, we built a lot of newer (but smaller) additions.

I'm really overdue for a complete overhaul, but it's not happening this year - LOL! It generally takes one whole day to set up everything except the crypt and inside the house. The crypt is two days and the house....well it goes slowly over a week or so (after work).

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
MRM: My biggest inspiration is Disneyland's Haunted Mansion. Being that we're a haunted yard or yard display, I want it to be accessible to everyone, of all ages. Our scares are very mild, because I want them to stay and look at everything. I'd rather go for eerie and creepy than gross or gory, it's just not my thing. I love the vibe of going through the Haunted Mansion and the anticipation of seeing something I've never seen before. I'd like to ditch my Doom Buggy and walk slowly through to see all the details that whiz by while riding.

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
MRM: Definitely Morticia Addams - she was a hussy and I love that!!

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
MRM: Ummm, yes my family is supportive of my haunting obsession and yes they think I'm insane!! The love me anyway and go along with my schemes for the most part.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
MRM: The future of my haunt is going to be about original ideas. I feel that I've tried to use traditional inspirations and give them my own twist, but I'd like to start forging ahead and be more imaginative. I'd also like to try paper mache because the props I see that are made of paper mache are usually the ones that inspire me the most.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
MRM: My own of course - http://www.mourningrosemanor.com/
Friend us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Simi-Valley/Mourning-Rose-Manor/254805367903

Tinker-rebel!

2010-10-25T16:55:00.000-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE Tinkerbell! She is the coolest female Disney character ever…I mean, how many other “good guys” tried to kill their rival? Pure evil! ;) She needs a costume that throws the picture of sweetness out the window though, so I give you Bad Tink!

Tinkerbell wears a little green strapless mini dress in the Disney films and I think that style is right but I want it to be darker. I picked out a black dress with purple trim from hellbabies.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48038895/rock-chick-mini-dress-by-hellbabies

You can’t be a pixie without wings! We need some that match Tink’s true nature and these gorgeous Cobweb Spider Wings by OnGossamerWings are perfect!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/55499236/moxie-fairy-wings-goth-cobweb-spider

As we all know, accessories make the outfit and I found some great ones for this costume! A fashionable pair of arm warmers from ZenAndCoffee and a Stitch Choker made by VonErickson are very fitting.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/57016184/deadly-nightshade-long-spat-style-arm

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59911580/the-original-vonerickson-stitch-choker

Last but not least, you have to have somewhere to keep your fairy dust and what better place than an adorable coffin purse?! This one from faboo is very appropriate for Tinkerbell’s new rebellious look.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/56146717/coffin-handbag-macabre-and-fabulous

Throw on your favorite pair of boots or wildest platform heels and you’re ready for a night of troublemaking, Tink style! And, no, that does not mean killing Wendy! :D

Terra Lair: Seven Layers of Scare

2010-10-22T17:18:00.000-04:00

Terra, Terror of the Cul de Sac, is not only talented at Halloween prop building – she’s also extremely willing to share her knowledge and experiences! Pretty much anything you see in her haunt can also be found on her blog with in-depth instructions to build/make it. So, if you can’t make it to Kansas City to see this Halloween phenom in person, be sure to check her out online!

Castle of Terra: Vampyr Reign was last year's theme.

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
TL: Halloween is awesome because it is so fun and you can spread that fun like a disease. Once they are infected, they are a Halloween fan for life!

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
TL: The moment I returned from Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights in 2005. As hubby and I were walking between all the different haunts I noticed that many queue line displays looked like something I could attempt. Off to Home Depot I went.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
TL: Jason! Would you believe I just saw both of those movies for the first time last year? The first go around I was too young to get into the theater. Then, I just kept trying to avoid seeing them because I don’t like gore. Ran out of road when someone at HalloweenForum dared me to watch them. After all these years of being afraid of seeing them I was like “Pffft..that was NOTHING!”

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
TL: Well, if you are asking of anyone’s prop, then it would be PumpkinRot’s new style of scarecrow in 2008: http://pumpkinrot.com/images/2008_83.jpg Completely blew me AWAY. It is everything about what I love about Halloween. Terrifying, mysterious and beautifully artistic.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
TL: Funny thing is, I didn’t even see it live when it happened. Last year I put a video camera outside of the haunt. A week after Halloween I had the chance to review the footage I got and there it was. A little girl’s dad finally came out of the haunt with her little sister and she ran up to her dad and pronounced that she didn’t scream ONCE. Just then, Boogedy fired off right in front of her and she made a HUGE scream! Loved it and so I put it at the end of my haunt video that’s up on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jQ1mKSQGNc

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
TL: Reese’s! I could eat and eat and eat those until I get sick.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
TL: I work on it all year and think about it constantly. When I’m not doing that, I’m dreaming about it.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
TL: Many pro-haunts: HalloweenHorrorNights (be there again this year), The Darkness, The ScareHouse and House of Torment. Then, of course, LaurieBeast and Pumpkinrot.

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
TL: Why Morticia of couse. She was sexy and drove Gomez crazy with passion.

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
TL: Both…They love me and so they don’t show that they think I’m nuts.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
TL: Better, better, better. Now that I feel I have a good handle on the Seven Layers of Scare I want to keep improving the haunt and keep it fresh.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
TL: Here’s my blog that has the Seven Layers of Scare and many of my tutorials:
http://www.halloweenforum.com/blogs/terra/
http://www.youtube.com/user/Scaryladyvideos

The Sculptress of Scare

2010-10-18T12:12:00.000-04:00

The Sculptress of Scare, known to the online Halloween community as Lauriebeast, has talent overload! Her pieces are extremely detailed and lifelike. Each one is eerily beautiful! If you are around the Wrightwood, CA area be sure to stop by Pinker Place, an antique store where Laurie’s creations are currently being displayed!

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
LB: I love this holiday because it allows for so much creative freedom. How bad can a holiday be where you can dress up however you would like, beg for candy, and scare the hell out of people.

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
LB: I've always passed out candy but didn't really get started doing a yard haunt until 2005, although I decorated the inside much earlier than that....just love the colors, smells, and feeling of the holiday.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
LB: They're both equally creepy.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
LB: That's a very difficult question to answer. I would have to say "The Bride" because she was my first anatomically accurate sculpt. I learned so much about anatomy during that sculpt which then led to even more creative freedom and accuracy with Vampiress Morbidia, Ophelia the Witch, Elfula Helmut, and my current project, Zelda the Witch...all favorites. :)

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
LB: That has to be the guy standing in front of Vampiress Morbidia for about 15 minutes waiting for her to blink, hehe.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
LB: Snickers bite size candy....mmmmm.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
LB: I start putting up the graveyard fence the first week in October along with the scarecrow. After that I just keep adding tombstones, ghosts in the trees, bats, spiders on the house, dead branch trimmings and cobwebs. I don't put my 8 main characters out until the big day and do a dress rehearsal the night before to check the lighting. Total time spent just on the outside is several hours each day for at least 7 days.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
LB: Until I joined HalloweenForum, I never realized how many people out there actually made a major production of their haunts. I was, and still am, blown away by the talent and camaraderie of these folks. I was introduced to the sculpting talents of Mike Melillo which then led to my feeble attempt at sculpting my first witch (the green one with no ears and no name). Since then, I've met a tremendous amount of very talented and creative folks, all of whom I draw inspiration from.

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
LB: Love 'em both....equally!

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
LB: Yes and yes :D

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
LB: That's a tough question to answer at the moment since my husband and I are selling our home. Where we're planning on moving to is in a mountain resort area and the kids don't trick or treat in the traditional way since there are no sidewalks or street lights. Plus there are lots of long uphill driveways, not to mention wildlife including bears, bobcats, and mountain lions. However, I'm told that the kids walk up and down the main street and collect candy from the 20 or so stores that stay open for them. I'm most likely going to set up a display with my characters in a fabulous antique shop and blow everyone away....they won't know what hit 'em! :D I won't have a graveyard or fog but may use some of the rickety fencing to stage the front of the store. The owner is giving me complete freedom to do my thing (be afraid...be very afraid)

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
LB: http://halloweenforum.com/
http://hauntforum.com/index.php
http://www.garageofevilnetwork.com/
http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q77/Lauriebeast/

Lucky Number 13 Sale - The Halloween Edition!

2010-10-13T09:36:00.000-04:00

On the 13th of every month I offer a Buy One Get One Free deal on my Original Art Prints! This month is special though because it's my birthday month and the Halloween season! So this time around you'll get a free print with ANY purchase! Remember this is only good today and Etsy time stamps the invoices so be sure to make your purchases by 11:59pm on the 13th!

Please put the name of the print you'd like for free in the Message to Seller box. You can see the options here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CustomZombie?section_id=6065168

Another Awesome BellaLili Giveaway!

2010-10-13T09:22:00.000-04:00

Bella Lili is giving away one of her fabulous Glam Rock bracelets (a $44 value)! Enter now so you don't miss out!

http://bellalilijewelry.blogspot.com/2010/10/halloween-2010-giveaway-glam-rock.html

The Haunting Grounds

2010-10-11T19:09:00.000-04:00

The Haunting Grounds…a home haunt in Scotia, NY ran by a life-long Halloween fanatic with the perfect house to set the mood. I’m SO jealous of that house! In looking at the 2010 projects on their Facebook page, I can see that this year is going to be a fantastic one! Check out the attention to detail in everything displayed in this haunt!

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
THG: Halloween has always been my favorite holiday, maybe because it was my first holiday, or maybe because it was so close to my birthday. Having been born just a few days shy of Halloween, I've always associated the two as a part of each other. My mother was even kind enough to, at my request, replace the traditional Birthday Cake with a Pumpkin Pie (or two). It’s almost as though Halloween is my belated birthday party every year. That aside, it's a great time to free yourself from all of the social rules and expectations of everyday life. A vast majority of us live most of our lives dressing, looking and behaving in a manner that society tells us is proper. Halloween gives us an opportunity to cut loose from that whom society thinks we should be, and allows us to become whatever we want. It's a time when it’s okay, or even cool to be weird, and even the socially unacceptable can feel accepted. The anonymity of donning a mask or dressing up also gives us a degree of confidence that some of us may not have under normal circumstances.

Fear is also one of the factors that makes Halloween great. That safe type of fear created by haunted houses and home haunts gives us a rush of adrenaline that we don’t often get to experience otherwise. It's what draws us to visit these places, and it's what has created, and still is creating so many memories for so many people every year. I think back to my time as a child, and I can remember more events pertaining to Halloween than of all of the other holidays combined. I think this holds true for a lot of others as well, and that is why I enjoy putting this much effort into the holiday; I'm making memories for our future generations.

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
THG: My interest in decorating for Halloween started as an early teenager. As my little sister and I grew older, my mother would begin to put less and less focus on decorating for Halloween (and more and more on Christmas), and by the time I had reached my teenage years, my mother’s arsenal of Halloween Decor had dwindled down to none but what might fit within a shoebox. Certainly I could not let my favorite holiday all but perish from my home, so at about 15 years old, I took matters into my own hands. Armed with only a plastic skull, a strobe light and enough scrap wood to build a house, I began to explore my artistic muses. Over the next few years, I would set up creepy displays in our front porch picture window, usually consisting of a rag bearing skeleton creeping amongst a few plywood tombstones. It was all very simple, but it was great fun. I continued my picture window haunt until the age of 21 when I finally moved out of my parent’s house. For the next 14 years, life in apartment buildings and 2-story flats made decorating impractical, and entry-level jobs made it unaffordable. Halloween consisted of little more than a few jack-o-lanterns on our front porch. In 2006, I started decorating again, but it wasn’t until 2008 that I did anything substantial. In December of 2008, my wife and I bought our first home, and last October, "The Haunting Grounds" was born.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
THG: I was always a fan of the Elm Street series, but given that Freddy Kruger doesn't don a mask, I'm going to have to go with Michael Myers. Jason definitely has the intimidation factor in his corner, but his demeanor is more menacing than creepy. Michael on the other hand, the way he works that William Shatner mask is just downright eerie.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
THG: I really love all of my Halloween props, but if I had to choose what I like the best, I guess I would have to say I'm most fond of the groundbreaker corpses. This year’s Gravedigger prop is the one that I am most proud of, so I guess that might qualify as my favorite for now.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
THG: I have very little to draw from in respect to my haunt. 2008 was my first big year, and it was fun, but nothing really stood out. 2009 was a very big let-down. I had spent 3 months preparing for the first haunt in our new home, and it was all cut short due to high winds and heavy rains. I hope that, 3 months from now, I can say that this year holds some potential for a favorite memory.

My all time favorite Halloween memory came when I worked as an actor for a local Haunted House, but that's a whole other story.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
THG: This one's easy... Kit Kat... Hands down.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
THG: I spend hundreds of hours making props all year long. Once Halloween is over, I start planning for next year’s props. I don’t like to be rushed through a project, so I prefer to get an early start. I'll start working on new props over the winter, which allows me to plug along at my own pace. Last year, I set excessively high goals for myself and ended up spending every free minute I had, for 3 straight months, working on props. The last week before Halloween, I take time off from work to set up my display. As my prop collection grows, I'm sure I will need to spend less time on it.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
THG: I draw inspiration from a variety of sources; movies, books, the work of other home haunters, and even my own twisted imagination. My return to haunting, and a lot of my earlier propwork was largely influenced by the work of a few very gifted individuals; SpookyBlue, Pumpkin Rot, Scott Stoll (Stolloween), and John Wolfe (Season of Shadows). I still frequent their sites to look for new ideas and to keep the "Halloween Bug" alive in the off season. I also get a lot of inspiration from my visits to the local Halloween stores and haunted houses, but I would have to say that my biggest inspiration comes from all of the talented members of the two forums I frequent, http://www.hauntforum.com/ and http://www.halloweenforum.com/

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
THG: I grew up watching The Munsters, but remember very little about the show besides Fred Gwynn’s quirky behavior as Herman Munster. I haven’t seen an episode of The Munsters in many years, and I never really got into The Addams Family, so I’m afraid I don’t have much of an opinion on that one.

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
THG: My kids are great, they all love Halloween, and for the most part, they all love helping out with the props and decorating (when it doesn’t interfere with their video games). My wife knows I’m a bit over the top, but she is also very supportive, and often very encouraging. Most of the time, she compliments my props and the hard work I put into them, and can often be found showing off photos of my works to her friends at work and on her Facebook. This however, is not always the case. The problem occurs when I allow my projects to interfere with my everyday responsibilities, which tends to happen far more often than it should. It is then that she becomes less accepting, and more critical of the time I spend on Halloween projects and our haunt. In essence, my family is very supportive, but they know I’m insane.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
THG: Over the next few years, I expect our haunt will continue to grow by leaps and bounds. I hope that within a few years, I can begin to reduce the amount of time spent building props drastically. From there, who knows? I’ve always enjoyed helping others, so I would like to use my haunt to that benefit. I was thinking of starting out small, most likely looking for food donations to help the local food pantry. If that is successful, I may look for other opportunities as well. The ultimate goal would be to grow and turn my haunt into a local charity based haunted house, but that's long off.

In addition to our Halloween props, I also plan to do a lot of work on our website, which I feel is an important part of the haunt. It’s the way I keep my haunt alive all year round. I use the site to share progress on our new props, photos of past haunts and various other Halloween related tidbits.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
THG:
http://thehauntinggrounds.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scotia-NY/The-Haunting-Grounds/156116834701

Surprise 12 Hour Sale!

2010-10-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

20% off everything in my store - prices are already marked down! This sale runs from 10am EST to 10pm EST...don't miss out!
http://www.customzombie.etsy.com/

Etsy's Dark Side 2nd Annual Halloween Scavenger Hunt!

2010-10-07T23:23:00.000-04:00

Come join the Etsy Dark Team in the 2nd Annual EDT Halloween Scavenger Hunt. The first 13 people who complete the Hunt will each win one item (chosen randomly) from our hundreds of dollars worth of prizes!
WHEN: Sunday October 10th @ 10am EST (7am PST, 9am CST)

WHERE: Start your hunt at http://SWStitchery.etsy.com/

HOW TO PLAY:

►Look through the shop's items to find this image:

►You'll find the link to the next shop to hunt through when you find the image!

►Compile a list of all the links to the items you find with the above image hidden in it, in order, starting with http://SWStitchery.Etsy.com/ .

►When you reach the end, convo your complete list of links to Room3Designs, or email her at: tiffwestlund[at]hotmail[dot]com .

Prizes include items such as jewelry, cocktails hats, pillows, art prints, ornaments, gift certificates, and more!

Good luck & have a spooky good time!

Mill Creek Haunted Hollow

2010-10-06T13:30:00.000-04:00

Talk about curb appeal! The Pankow's literally change the face of their house each year for Halloween. I cannot fathom the time and effort that goes into this yard haunt. Oh, and did I mention they give out FREE hot cider?!

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion why it is?
MCHH: Halloween has the best sense of humor. Whether you’re decorating for small children or an older crowd, there’s always room for fun. Halloween also has the greatest range of theme within a holiday. Silly, bloody, macabre, ghastly, etc. you can do almost anything for Halloween. This allows for a lot of range and creativity.

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
MCHH: I have decorated for Halloween since I was old enough to walk a pumpkin to the front porch, but I really started “haunting” when my wife and I bought our home in 2003.

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
MCHH: Michael Myers is creepier. I think a lot of that has to do with John Carpenter.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
MCHH: Currently my favorite prop is the false tower I built out of wood and Styrofoam to sit on top of the house. It’s a big piece and brings a lot of attention to the house. I hope one day to replace the fake tower with a real one!

I’m also very proud of my Cider Hut. I originally built a wooden cider shack, but last year I built a brand new structure that is far too nice to be called a “shack” so now it’s known as the cider hut. It’s a kiosk-like structure that I put out at the end of the haunt where I serve hot, homemade apple cider to ToTs and parents.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
MCHH: My little girls running through the graveyard laughing and giggling as they dart between the tombstones and grave fences.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
MCHH: Homemade popcorn balls.

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
MCHH: Let’s see, 365 days in a year, 24 hours in day…I’d say I put about 500 hours a year into Halloween, but a lot of that is design and planning.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
MCHH: My inspiration comes from all over. Television, movies, halloweenforum, holiday specials, etc. If I see something I like, I try to recreate it and put it in my haunt.

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
MCHH: Morticia – all the way!!

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
MCHH: My wife is supportive and collaborative and my kids get excited every year.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
MCHH: Every year I hope to improve props and add more detail. I’m always ambitious, but it boils down to available time. Someday, I’d like to add more moving props, a skeleton band, singing pumpkins, more tombstones, better witches, etc. The list never ends.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
MCHH:
http://www.millcreekhauntedhollow.com/
http://www.halloweenforum.com/
http://www.halloweenpropmaster.com/
http://www.pumpkinrot.com/
http://www.stolloween.com/

Visions of Madness

2010-10-02T13:21:00.000-04:00

Visions of Madness is a free yard haunt, open only on Halloween night, in New Albany, IN. The front yard is geared towards smaller children and isn’t too scary but go around back and you’re in for a scream! Each year brings new props and new scares. If you’re in the area it should definitely be on your Halloween “To Do” list!

CZ: I already know that Halloween is the most awesome holiday out there but my readers may not, so can you give us your opinion on why it is?
VoM: To begin with I love fall and everything about it (ie... The temperatures, the leaves, the smell...) Halloween is so different than any other holiday because there's no pressures. You're not fighting the crowds to get the perfect gift or trying to find time to see this person and that person. It's completely fun and plays on your emotions of fear. Seeing the look on the kids faces and the parents for that matter. You can be whoever or whatever you want to be for the day.

CZ: When did you start “haunting”?
VoM: My dad always made sure we had the biggest pumpkin when I was a kid and we always had the paper decorations on the house and the man with the goofy mask stuffed full of leaves on the porch. I started the tradition with my own kids just by always heading out to find the perfect pumpkin. Then I had a daughter who was born October 15, 2000. She loves Halloween! When she was 5 she wanted to have a Halloween birthday party and she wanted it to be scary. That Halloween we started with some big pumpkins a glow in the dark skeleton with black light hanging in the picture window and a creepy sounds CD. It took off from there a little more each year. Last year we moved to our current home and we have a huge backyard and that's when things really took off!

CZ: Creepiest man behind the mask – Michael Myers or Jason?
VoM: Definitely Michael. Our first real prop was a Michael Myers propped up against our garage. The neighborhood loved it. People wanted to get their picture taken with him.

CZ: What is your favorite prop/decoration and why?
VoM: Personally I love my scarecrow. I've always loved scarecrows and they creep me out. But I also like my toxic vomiter because it's the kids favorite. Don't know what it is about a creepy guy puking that makes kids so happy, but they love it.

CZ: You must have one absolute favorite memory about your haunt - tell us what it is.
VoM: Last year as some people were leaving they commented to each other, "That's what Halloween is about!" It makes me happy that people get it. I just love doing this stuff and I love seeing people enjoying it.

CZ: What’s the ultimate Halloween candy?
VoM: Aren't they all perfect? I really like candy corn!

CZ: How much time goes into your haunt each year?
VoM: Too much and not enough at the same time. We start thinking of new things for next year as soon as we open the haunt for this year. We work on it little by little all year round. We comb stores, yard sales, thrift stores, and even garbage looking for that one thing we really need for next year’s haunt.

CZ: From whom or what do you draw your inspiration?
VoM: It's just something i love. I love to see the kids faces when they walk through our haunt and they see something cool. I like when the kids are so scared to walk through they are fighting their parents with everything they have. Then they get to the exit and they're talking about how cool it was.

CZ: Morticia Addams or Lily Munster?
VoM: Morticia Addams

CZ: Is your family supportive of your haunting obsession or do they think you’re insane?
VoM: Both! We work on it as a family. I have 2 teenage children who think I’m crazy, but they have moments where they are cool with it. They never really want to work on it, but always want to bring their friends over to see everything. My youngest daughter loves it. She thinks it the greatest thing ever. She goes out trick or treating for 15 minutes around the short block and comes home to work in the yard. She loves to scare people and she's probably the creepiest thing in the yard at time. My wife works with me year round creating. I do the mechanical parts and she pulls in the artistic vision of it.

CZ: What does the future hold for your haunt?
VoM: Hopefully longevity and we really hope to get the word out and get more trick or treaters to come. We are trying to get the neighbors involved. We worked with a couple of them last year and we got some decorations in their yards and I’d love to see the whole neighborhood decked out. We'll continue to build new props as long as the trick or treaters keep coming.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
VoM: http://www.visions-of-madness.com/ and you can also become a fan of Visions of Madness on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-Albany-IN/Visions-of-Madness/135077173195742?ref=ts&v=wall#!/pages/New-Albany-IN/Visions-of-Madness/135077173195742?v=wall&ref=ts

Haunt Features for my Favorite Month!

2010-10-02T13:12:00.000-04:00

I love the month of October and am head-over-heels for Halloween (if you couldn't tell!) so I wanted to do something special this month on the blog. Each week I will be featuring several haunts - amateur, pro, garage, yard....anything goes! The criteria for being featured is that it has to be a fantastic, over the top, haunt. So check back here often throughout the month to see what spooky goodness is haunting the page!

Q&A with Raven Young

2010-09-27T14:24:00.000-04:00

“Dreadful Things by Raven”….I could not disagree more! Her shop is full of wonderful, beautiful things! You can find jewelry, paintings, spooky home décor, Christmas cards, and taxidermy art amongst other things. It’s definitely worth your time to peruse her wares!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
RY: I have been creating art as long as I can remember but was formally schooled in Anthropology. You can sometimes spot my cultural interests in my pieces. I am a Gemini and with that said am very much into both rural and city life. Weekends I could be dancing like the dead in NYC or hiking along a river, you just never know!

I love snakes, cats, dead things, religious art, horror films, and the occult.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
RY: I sell everything! Real bone jewelry, creepy home décor, original paintings, Goth Greeting cards, Gothic Christmas decorations, and even handmade corsets from vintage spats.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
RY: Much of my artwork is a gothic twist on folk art that I have seen growing up in this area of Pa. I live in Amish country and Hex signs are everywhere on barns. As a kid I was influenced also by Tim Burton, Keith Herring, and Clive Barker.

I never lose my motivation. Creating is something I have to do. It can be a curse at time because I am like a factory of ideas. I can become frustrated because I cannot create my pieces as fast as I envision them in my head.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
RY: A few people have said they could never spend the night in my house because my creations scare them. I guess that made me pretty happy..haha.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
RY: My parents really nurtured my creativity and let my interests develop naturally so by the time I was in grade school I noticed other kids say me as “weird”. I had pet reptiles starting at age 6 and would pick up anything creepy crawly. This was not so popular with the girls so I ended up making a lot of male friends early on. This made the girls really hate me later…haha.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
RY: I wake up very early, 530 am and work on art and orders before heading to my mundane day job. After work I am back at the art while taking care of my pet snakes, three cats, and gardens. I try to keep a busy social life as well and head to several goth clubs and events a month in the tri-state area.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires? RY: Overall … Vampires. They have something to say. Artistically I prefer the zombies though. Painting rotting flesh never gets boring!

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
RY: None. Although I do identify with/am influenced by fictional characters such as Dr. Frankenfurter, Jessica Rabbit, and Morticia.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
RY: El Chupacabra I suppose could exist. I definitely do not believe that a Sasquatch could exist. It would just be impossible from an evolutionary standpoint.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
RY: Robots would happen sooner but if there is life from another planet capable of visiting earth we would likely be doomed as well.

CZ: What scares you?
RY: George Bush and hairy centipedes. Everything else is game!

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
RY: I am always on the side of fellow Dark Siders! haha

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
RY: My shop: http://www.ravenofskys.etsy.com/
http://twitter.com/ravenofskys
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Dreadful-Things-by-Raven/169069259362?v=wall&ref=ts

Last Minute Costume

2010-09-25T13:57:00.001-04:00

I thought it would be good to include a costume that was easy to throw together and even easier to get into. So it’s not flashy, awe-inspiring, or a show stopper – but it is EFFECTIVE!

Several years ago I got invited to a very last minute Halloween party. My costume for that year was a rather elaborate one that I didn’t feel like putting on so I started digging through my closet. What I came up with is something very similar to what I’m presenting to you below. I walked into this party (where I only knew the two people I came with, the hostess, and a couple of others) and never took my mask off. It took the hostess a while to figure out who I was but she never let on to the other guests. It freaked people out! I had a blast being that mysterious, creepy person in the room, leering at people from behind my black hockey mask and wielding my plastic machete. :D

The mask is what the entire costume revolves around. Sure, you could throw on any old rubber mask but I want one that makes an impression! This one from nightmaresdream takes my black hockey mask to the next level.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/54558126/jason-insane-custom-clown-hockey-mask

Now the rest of your outfit sets the mood. Put this mask on with a pink ruffled shirt and no one is going to be frightened (except for me….of the shirt though, not the mask!). A skeleton torso tee by PoisonAppleShirts fits the bill.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49778377/womens-skeleton-angel-top-poison-apple

What psycho killer doesn’t love sharp objects? Especially stabby ones! A butcher knife necklace/earring combo, found in treasuredcharms’ shop, is perfect!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/56565894/miniature-knife-silver-plated-pewter

http://www.etsy.com/listing/56959441/miniature-knives-silver-plated-pewter

I fell in love with these when I saw them and just HAD to include them in this costume! Nevertoomuchglitter has Texas Chainsaw Manicure nails!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/55209037/texas-chainsaw-manicure-long-japanese

Top the whole thing off with a pair of dark denim distressed jeans, some beat up leather boots, an awesome leather jacket, and a fake stabbing implement and you’ll be ready to scare the crap out of all the trick-or-treaters in your neighborhood!

Q&A with Wings of Sin

2010-09-20T16:41:00.000-04:00

“Wings of Sin is a combination of a mad artist named Noah and a dancing seamstress named Melaney. We combine our mediums to create unique wearable art.”

This is how the profile on their shop reads but “unique wearable art” is such an understatement! How about exotic, inspiring, and beautiful to add to that line? I think so. ;)

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
WOS: I live deep in the woods. That is a huge part of me. I spend all the time that is not Wings of Sin fire dancing and belly dancing. This is what influences a lot of my clothing designs. If I could exist looking like a post apocalyptic tribal dancer all the time I would be very happy.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
WOS: In two words, dark and sexy. In more words then that, we focus mainly on clothing for the darker side of belly dance, fire dance, hoopers and all sorts of other performers. We have what we would call day to day wear as well, but most wouldn't think everyday wear when they see it. We do performances at fetish shows as well so we dance a fine line between gothic/industrial and bondage attire.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
WOS: I worked at a really bad, corporate, "punk" chain store that will remain nameless, ahem. I always worked with my friend Noah and we would just get disgusted by the crap that people would buy. I was already designing my own clothing and he started painting directly on the fabric. From here we began our career together as Wings of Sin. He now DJ's all our fashion shows and I write all the stories.

As for what keeps me motivated, it's almost entirely selfish. Being a post apocalyptic Elvin princess (that's my husband's nickname for me.) I know it's very difficult to find the kind of clothes that go with that feeling. I started making the clothes for myself and then realized there was actually a demand from others for this kind of look.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
WOS: After my first fashion show someone said about my models and clothing, "Well aren't you a bunch of She-Wolves of the Wasteland." That is now what my models are called.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
WOS: I remember the exact moment like it was yesterday. My favorite movie when I was a little girl was Legend. Everyone else liked Tom Cruise and all the little faeries. Yeah, they were nice, but I always sighed when Darkness came in the picture. I wanted Lily to stay with him and wear that dress and live in that castle forever.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
WOS: Well, I live in the middle of nowhere and it's called Hanksville. I have quite the menagerie of animals living with me, the most high maintenance one would be a 140lb mastiff named Lady. So I spend a good portion of my day cleaning up spit. When I'm not doing that or locked up in my leopard print dungeon of a sewing room I spend a lot of time running through the forest with my elven husband, Faeryl. I spend my nights with fine friends around my fire pit dancing with my fire fans.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
WOS: Well that's a difficult question. If I had to be one or make out with one I suppose I would choose vampire. However, I've always had a secret desire to be a necromancer so, zombies? Or, you could just be asking me which kind of movie I like best so, um, zombies. But, if I'm going to be completely honest here, I'm a werewolf girl to the core. It's my goal in life, to be turned.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
WOS: Okay, okay, this is sort of cheesy, but here it goes. I like to watch series a lot when I'm sewing. This way I can go on five to eight hour sewing marathons and just have something going on in the background. My current series I'm blowing through is Buffy. I just have to say, I relate to Drusilla way too much. I desperately love to dance in the moonlight, I'm a little on the looney side and I'm a huge fan of Billy Idol. Spike, come on.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
WOS: Absolutely, without a doubt, both of them exist. I know it.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
WOS: I just know it will be aliens because I am way more afraid of them.

CZ: What scares you?
WOS: The feeling of being trapped.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
WOS: It all depends. When civilization has ended and we live a vast desert wasteland can I run Bartertown?

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
http://www.wingsofsin.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wings-of-Sin/44953223902
www.modelmayhem.com/wingsofsin

I was on Etsy's Front Page today! :D

2010-09-13T21:27:00.002-04:00

akaCINDERS made this wonderful treasury yesterday (you can see the full treasury here - please go click and comment!) and Etsy saw fit to feature it on their front page this evening!

Q&A with ParadiseLost

2010-09-13T13:29:00.000-04:00

All I’m going to say about Paradise Lost is “WOW!” You must see this art for yourself and don’t let the few pictures you’ll see here keep you from checking out the rest of the shop!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
PL: Well, I’m an artist living in the SF Bay Area. I have sort of a no rules attitude about art. Sometimes I am a painter, sometimes an illustrator, and currently I am working on a series of large public murals. I’m really dyslexic too.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
PL: I mostly sell prints of images that I have tampered with in one way or another. Usually with acrylic paint or graphite. They are called Kirstograph prints, which is a word that I made up for what I am making.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
PL: There is so much material out there for me. Typically I use tintype images or old art books. French art almost exclusively, but I will paint over anything that sparks an idea. Once that happens I have to do it, and can’t focus on anything else until it’s done.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
PL: The other day I was showing a friend some of my work online and he said, “Wow, Seth learned to use Photoshop.” All of my paintings and drawings are done but hand, and the way you see it online is the way it looks in person. Photoshop can be a great tool, but I am a traditionalist down to my core.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
PL: I grew up in a community of people who shared money, cars, or whatever they had. There were five families and a couple of single people off and on. In school they wanted to put me in the slow class because I am dyslexic, so my mom pulled me out and taught me at home. About twenty of the kids in the community decided to do it too. Honestly, I have never felt like a 100% normal kid.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
PL: No two days are the same, which I really like. I’m painting a lot of murals right now, but really prefer to work on my own stuff. If I go too long without painting and drawing my own stuff I get really depressed.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
PL: Vampires. It’s not even close. I am a fan of Ann Rice and Bram Stoker and True Blood.
But I do secretly fantasize about being the only human in a world full of zombies that are really easy to kill as I make my way to the safe zone.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
PL: Any character with a head that spins all the way around.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
PL: My great grandpa claimed to have seen Bigfoot on a hike in Oregon. So between the two choices I’ll take the Sasquatch. But to be honest, I really think there is something to the Chupacabra.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
PL: I think robots and machines already have us over a barrel, but don’t know it. God help us if they ever become self aware like in Terminator. My friends think it is strange that I don’t have a cell phone, or credit card, and have never used an ATM.
But don’t think I’m not keeping one eye one the sky incase of an alien invasion.

CZ: What scares you?
PL: That’s easy. Myself. I have a wild imagination and it’s really hard for me to get disturbing things out of my head. It often gets to the point where I have to imagine the image burning down to ashes and the wind carrying them away. That usually does it, but not always.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
PL: Depends on what the undead masses have to offer me. Dental insurance would be great.

CZ: Any links you’d like included?
PL: http://www.paradiselost.etsy.com/

Pssst....In case you forgot....

2010-09-11T14:10:00.000-04:00

It's almost time for my Lucky Number 13 Sale!

On the 13th of every month I offer a Buy One Get One Free deal on my Original Art Prints! And if it happens to be Friday the 13th, you get a free gift too (though that won't happen again until May)! Please put the name of the print you'd like for free in the Message to Seller box.

You can see the options here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CustomZombie?section_id=6065168

Oh, and I've got some new prints in the shop too! Check 'em out!

Q&A with Cutter TwoWheels of FeralWares

2010-09-06T15:30:00.000-04:00

FeralWares is Cutter TwoWheels' very unique Etsy shop. Animal bones, steampunk, and mixed-media collages are mostly what you’ll find there and I strongly encourage you to check it out!
P.S. Until further notice all profits from her shop are funding the special needs of her arthritic dog – so if you see something you like please help them out!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
CTW: My name is Cutter, and my Etsy shop is Feral Wares. I currently live in central Florida, but I bounce around a lot. I'm from a small town near Buffalo, New York, and I find myself back there every so often. In the process of moving to Massachusetts, but begrudgingly. I may be one of the few Dark Siders that prefers the heat and sunshine to the cold and gloomy northeast.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
CTW: My shop is mostly made up of various types of jewelry and accessories. I also am a photographer and sometimes list mixed media abstracts featuring my photos. I'm an all around artist and have a broad range of skills, so you can expect just about anything in my shop, including crocheted and knitted things, sewn accessories, housewares, vintage things reclaimed and reworked... My brain has creative ADD and there's no end to the things I can dream up.

I'd like to take this moment to discuss what sets me apart from a lot of artists and crafters. The materials I use in my work are not typical crafters' supplies. I use animal bones in nearly all of my work. The bones are mostly collected from road kill, and sometimes I'm lucky enough to just happen upon them. I personally am vegan, and an animal rights activist, and personally feel that my creative work complements, rather than contradicts, my lifestyle. Making a presentation of animals (that were NOT harmed specifically for my means), and displaying them in a beautiful and thought-provoking manner, draws attention to the typical disregard of humans for other species of animals. It seems to me, the more disgusted and appalled people are when they see my work, the more they themselves engage in the abuse of animals - eating meat, using cosmetics and products tested on animals, and live lifestyles that otherwise leave a sasquatch-sized footprint on our planet. I find this fact to be particularly interesting.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?

CTW: As far as the jewelry goes, I love the way the organic bones mix with beads and old shiny costume jewelry. the dichotomy of something usually viewed as scary and repulsive (bones) put together with something flashy and bright and pretty (beads and costume jewelry and other found objects) creates a contrast that I find particularly magnetic. As for my larger artwork, I find inspiration in a photograph, whether found or taken by myself, and I build a story around it. I like to look at a weathered old photograph and dream up a story about a person, all of their dreams, fears, and secrets. Who knows? Maybe I guessed one or two of them right.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?

CTW: I took a metal-working jewelry class with this really awesome, supportive woman (who on a side note was the mother of my co-worker at the time), and she was an executive at a local cutlery company. Apparently, her cat brought home an owl and she asked if I could do something with the skull. I made her an absolutely stunning necklace, showcasing the skull embedded in some Victorian-era lace. Seeing the impressed look on her face (not to mention the hefty tip on top of my set commission price) was compliment enough, but when I found out she traveled to Germany and Japan for executive board meetings and WORE THAT NECKLACE, I was floored!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren't "like the other kids"?

CTW: HA. As long as I can remember. In catholic school (which may have been the first 'mistake'), the nuns took me out of kindergarten and had me sit in on third grade classes. Most kids made fun of me and I had nicknames like "brain baby" and that sort of thing. Needless to say, I didn't have any friends. I lived on a big (40+) acre farm, and I’d hang out in the woods all day and talk to trees and I had a pet hunk of moss who I would read stories too. I still believe gnomes are real. As a kid, I'd make the mistake of mentioning things like that to "the other kids", and they'd look at me like I had six arms and from then on I was a sort of leper. I don't mind, I rather enjoy not being "normal".

CZ: What's a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
CTW: My days are anything BUT "typical". I don't have any sort of set schedule, and trying to hold onto a job is like trying to hold onto a hot potato for me. I can go for weeks without working on a piece, and then I can have a streak where I lock myself in my workshop for 20 hours a day and can't sleep because I'm working on 6 different things. I guess I'm pretty sporadic. But it works for me. Sometimes I wish I could be creative all the time, then I'd have a lot more to show and a lot fewer piles of pack-ratted junk and -in-progresses laying around, but I suppose I'd probably burn out pretty fast.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
CTW: Hmmm... Is it sacrilege to say "neither"?
In all seriousness, the entire horror genre terrifies me. I'm more of a sci-fi nerd. Zombies scare me because they are very gory and aggressive and holy cow.... THEY EAT YOU! Vampires might even be scarier because they seem to be every day, romantic sweet-talkers, and then all of a sudden BAM! They get you in the end. I think they're pretty sleazy. Gives me the shivers.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
CTW: I suppose probably Frankenstein. I think I appear rather repulsive (more by choice than by birth), and I'm rather misunderstood.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?

CTW: Sasquatch. Totally. I'm wicked tall and umm 'sturdy', and that was my nickname in high school. If people thought I resembled him, he must for sure exist.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
CTW: This question is a little dated, I think. The machines we've created have already enslaved us.

CZ: What scares you?
CTW: My own squandered potential. That, and slugs.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
CTW: But wait, I AM one of the undead.....

CZ: Any links you'd like included?
CTW: My Etsy store: http://feralwares.etsy.com/
My personal Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/cuttertwowheels has some pictures of completed works and also has a tab for my Etsy shop. you can friend me and be notified when I've listed new work.

Thank you SO much for taking the time to read my interview! And if it leads you to my shop, then thanks for checking that out too! :-) -Cutter Two Wheels

Halloween Wish List

2010-09-04T13:47:00.000-04:00

Every year I have a wish list for Halloween and it's normally made up of high priced items that I will probably never have! I try to buy one thing from that list each year, along with all of my not-so-high priced purchases. Since I've been spending the whole morning drooling over and day dreaming about said list I thought I'd share it with you guys so you could do the same! ;)

Grandin Road
Every year Grandin Road carries a large selection of sophisticated, creepy Halloween offerings. This year is no exception:

Pre-lit Drippy Halloween Garland

Lifesize Wicked Witch

Flickering LED Halloween Candles

Halloween Spooky Hands with Clear Bowl

Spooky Halloween Willow Tree

Pottery Barn

While Pottery Barn doesn't have a huge Halloween section, they do carry some very cool (and very pricey) things!

Skeleton Hand Drink Dispenser Stand

Skeleton Hand Condiment Set

Cauldron Punch Bowl & Cups

Etsy

Etsy offers scads of fantastic Halloween items. There is so much available from a myriad of sellers - it's almost enough to make your head spin! Be sure to check out the other items these shops have for sale and to see what other sellers are offering just put "Halloween" in Etsy's search box (pssst...add "etsydarkteam" to check out the macabre offerings from my favorite team)!

Nasty Natured Foursome from DeadSpider

Flat Dark Orange Jack O'Lantern from PumpkinHollow

Tar Phoenix from TheShadowFarm

Halloween Black Glitter Skull with Crepe Paper Collar from RavenFaesCreations

Q&A with RubySkeleton

2010-08-30T13:05:00.001-04:00

RubySkeleton makes some of the most interesting hair accessories I’ve seen. Like dinosaurs? Pirates? Cards? Whatever it is you’re into she probably has something for you! Read on to find out what drives her creativity!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!

RS: I am a smoking, whisky drinking, hair flower making, 23 year old skeleton & I am madly in love with my soul mate Mike! I have been fascinated by skulls, skeletons, horror movies, & all my jazz since I could remember & I will always find the beauty within it. I find it mighty amazing that skulls, bones, skeletons lie beneath the flesh of living things & it shows only when the time is a tickin’ for death to come a knockin’.

I am getting married this Halloween to my amazing fiancé Mike. Every day we find more things we have in common. We have both held the love for Halloween, skulls, horror, etc., since we were youngins & then it was time to share it with one another. Whew you should see our home! We have been together over 7 years & I am excited & nervous for our BIG wedding day.

We have 10 awesome animals we love like children. We named them after horror movie icons & such because of our love for those type of movies & ideas. Bonez-our first baby, he is a 5 year old black cat, Medusa-bearded dragon, Skeleton-our beauty puppy, Phantom-crazy black & white cat, Pirate & Hooker-slider turtles, 2 red iguanas named Crimson & Vampyre, a gerbil named Darth Vader, &our newest addition- Zombie- our goofy puppy!

I am obsessed with & collect all things skulls, skeletons, bones, love eternal, zombies, vampires, polka dots, red & black, cherries, leopard & zebra print, hearts, stars, gaudy jewelry, hair flowers, music, movies, tattoos, pinup ladies, Marilyn Monroe , vintage goods, & many, many other things.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?

RS: I am currently selling handmade, unique, sweet, & spooky hair flowers!

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?

RS: The inspiration behind my shops lies between my love for spicing up my look with a hair flower & my soul mate Mike. I own probably 20 of my own hair flowers, 3 of which I created for myself. It all started when I wanted to buy a hair flower off Etsy & it was a little pricey. My fiancé Mike looked at me & said something of the nature, "I know you can make your own, you can be creative when you want, that way you can have them your way & the cost would not be as much as everywhere else". He gave me that push to tap into my creative side, I never thought I had. So off we went to craft stores to purchase the items I might need to carry on. I bought silk flowers, a few buttons, a glue gun, ribbon, & glitter. When I plugged in that glue gun I had no idea what I was getting myself into! After the first one was done I just could not stop! I did not want to go to work the following work day, I wanted to stay home & make hair flowers. My soul mate Mike encouraged me to create hair flowers for myself, then after the first one was finished, he encouraged me to try & sell my creations on a web site full of awesome creators that make all kinds of amazing items, which I had purchased from. All in all I am very happy that my creative side has finally come out to play in something productive that others can enjoy!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?

RS: I have only sold 5 so far but I have made a few for family & friends. Since I do not get to see the bright faces of my customers when they receive their hair flower, the best compliment would be seeing the faces of friends & family light up with a smile when I gave them a hair flower. Seeing that warms my bloody red heart!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?

RS: I have never been like other kids & I never wanted to be. I was always different, even to this day & I love it! The first time I realized was probably wayyy back in grade school when other kids just treated me different because I did not like the same things they did or wear the same things. In high school, I wanted this grey & black skirt outfit badly, it was crazy looking. My mom gets the $ to buy it, so I wore it to skewl, a preppy chick stops in the hallway, looks at me & my outfit & exclaims, "What the hell is that girl wearing" & busted out laughing with her friends. Yea, I was embarrassed & pissed off, but then a smile emerged knowing that I was different & my style has a mind of its own, it made me feel good! I always hated skewl in every grade, mostly because of all the judgmental kids walking around thinking they are better than everyone else. I was always quiet (still am at times), sure I had a few friends, some close, but I always preferred to be left alone when it came to the ludicrous sh*t. I love being unique & different, that will never change!

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?

RS: My typical day consists of waking up late everyday(I really should go to sleep sooner), brushing the bones in my mouth, getting some coffee, checking my email & all the good stuff, petting my babies, go to work, come home, eat dinner, rack my brain for new ideas for anything & everything whenever I find it possible, maybe watch a movie or 2, drink on occasion, forensic files @11pm, return to my nightmares.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?

RS: I love the idea of both but I would have to say that vampires is what I love more, I would rather drink red blood than eat mushy brains muahaha! And no, it is definitely not because of Twilight, I kinda refuse it set my eyes on it, it turns me off because it is not like the original, I give it props for trying to be different, but when I heard that there were vampires sparkling, no no no, not my taste! The whole idea behind vampires is just illuminating to me. Every time I watch a vampire movie, the passion I feel just makes me want to be bitten so I can hunger for the blood!

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?

RS: OH how I love the beautiful women of horror! My favorites are- Carrie White(Sissy Spacek), Kristy(Ashley Lawrence from Hellraiser), Linnea Quigley-Trash(the red headed punk rock chick from Return of the Living Dead), Kate Beckinsale, Jennifer Tilly, Sheri Moon Zombie, & many more!

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?

RS: I like to think either one exists. I would love to run into the El Chupacabra- it looks rather creepy! Sasquatch seems more likely to exist though.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?

RS: ALIENS!

CZ: What scares you?

RS: Believe it or not- sometimes the dark when I am alone, spiders, large snakes, being murdered, my family being murdered, animals treated badly, children being forced into liking something they do not want to like, children being treated badly & shown no love, the world ending, oil in the gulf, cancer, diseases, hospitals, going to the doctor, taking my babies to the vet, the list goes on...

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?

RS: I will definably be with you, until my brains get eaten & I have no control over which head looks most tasty!

Keep up with RubySkeleton's world here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/RubySkeleton
http://rubyskeleton.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/RubySkeleton
http://www.myspace.com/skull_bonez

When Witches Go Riding...

2010-08-26T18:28:00.000-04:00

Another of the classic costumes that I think deserves some attention is the witch. No offense to my pagan friends – I think we all know that the witch I’m talking about is a fictional character. ;) There are a lot of different takes on the witch costume. You could go modern or medieval, earthy or glamorous, beautiful enchantress or ugly old crone. One thing they have in common is that they are all wicked! So, without further ado, here’s my mish-mash idea of a good witch costume.

The dress makes the woman and this costume calls for one that is nothing short of fabulous. I decided to go with this renaissance era hooded gown from camelotcostumes. Why the hood? Because I felt the pointy hat was just a tad unrealistic for this vision.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49972349/medieval-gothic-vampire-halloween

Midnightzodiac has a fantastic purple leather bird mask that looks absolutely evil! I think it is perfect for my witch. She has to be incognito so as not to get burned at the stake. ;)

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49891767/leather-bird-mask-nightjar-owlet

On to accessories! We need items that are beautiful yet odd, and even a little repulsive to some people. This bird skull choker from ravenofskys fits the bill, as does NaturePunk’s glass fox eye ring.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/52748856/gothic-bird-skull-choker-real-skull-with

http://www.etsy.com/listing/53190209/taxidermy-glass-fox-eye-ring-in-silver

One last item that no self-respecting witch would be without – a broom! I love this black, natural one made by BROOMCHICK; it’s very fitting. Now throw on some pointy shoes, grab your familiar, and go make some mischief!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/53654778/black-colored-ceremonial-besom-witches

Q&A with LuluCupcake

2010-08-23T12:59:00.000-04:00

LuluCupcake is your one stop shop for Lolita bows, creepy hair clips, feather fascinators, and doggie hair bows!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
LLC: I am a hair stylist, and therefore obsessed with anything I can make and put in my hair! I keep one of everything I make. I love anything girly, especially bows. I love to make things for my little pug as well, because dogs need a little something extra sometimes too!

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
LLC: Hair accessories, bows, clips, feathers etc.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
LLC: The inspiration was that I has never found anything like what I make for your hair and at a good price! I really love crafting and I'm always inspired, so I never get bored.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
LLC: The best compliment is when I have a repeat customer and rave reviews. It makes me want to keep on doing what I'm doing.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
LLC: When I was 11, I realized I hated preppy clothing and I hated "fitting" in it wasn't me. Also at the ripe age of 5 I knew all the rock songs on the radio station, forget pop!

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
LLC: I work full time, so after that I craft for a few hours, fill any orders, post new things and usually wander into bed and drift off to it's all sunny on Philadelphia

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
LLC: I prefer a zombie vampire

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
LLC: The mean gremlins. I make weird noises

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
LLC: Sasquatch

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
LLC: Robots

CZ: What scares you?
LLC: The dark.. Seriously

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
LLC: With!

Keep a watch for new items from LuluCupcake here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lulucupcake
http://luluandcupcakes.blogspot.com/

Etsy Dark Team's Countdown to Halloween: Faux Pumpkin Carving

2010-08-20T17:30:00.002-04:00

I've written another article for the Dark Side's blog. This one is about carving fake pumpkins using a hot knife. Go check it out and then make some wicked pumpkins of your own!

Etsy Dark Team: Faux Pumpkin Carving

Q&A with Holly, creator of OrdoAtraSerpentis

2010-08-16T13:00:00.000-04:00

Holly is one of the newer members of Etsy’s Dark Side. I got to know her a little better by doing this interview and I hope you’ll do the same by reading it!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
OAS: During the daytime I work in I.T. I fell into I.T. while working part time to support my diploma study in Fine Arts and Fashion Design and Construction.
I have been making arts and crafts my whole life. I never feel complete or relaxed unless I am making something or thinking about making something. I LOVE knitting and am obsessed with Werewolves, cuttlefish and eels. I love black metal, industrial and classical music. I must marry The Doctor.
I started my Etsy shop as an excuse to get money back for the craft I make and was surprised (pleasantly) when people actually wanted to by my creations.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
OAS: I sell Clothing and Accessories featuring Hand Screenprinted art by myself and two others. These designs are inspired by the occult, gnostic, luciferian and sometimes just evil-ish things. Shirts, Skirts, Bags, Gauntlets and papergoods are all featured in the shop.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
OAS: My main inspiration is the Occult - luciferian and chaos gnosticism as well as plain old devil-y and demon-ish stuff. I don't need too much motivation as I constantly feel compelled to create and find it difficult to relax and stop. I like to think that I can have an influence on someone’s life, aesthetically and spiritually as most designs have a spiritual idea behind them.

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
OAS: The fact that anyone would buy and wear an item that I have created is flattering.
I often look at the favourites of customers and am excited to see my items alongside other amazing creations. One of my shirts was in the film clip for the industrial band Shiv-r which was exciting.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
OAS: I grew up in a small town on the south east coast of Australia. I was different from the second I was born; I had a blood clot on my spinal cord which means I had to (and have to now) use a wheelchair.
I was the only person within a 3 hours drive that was in a wheelchair. So from the start there was no point trying to be like everyone else. So I was just me. When I was a teenager my family moved to Sydney (capital of my state) and this was the first time I met other weird kids. Sydney had so much to offer and lots of cool shops and places it really opened up life to me and I realised I wanted to be an artist/designer.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
OAS: I wake up early and go to work. I work at work, check etsy emails at work and pack up items if I need to. My boss is really great about it, she understands that I work really hard to fit everything in.
I go home around 4. Get home and do some sewing or screen printing. Eat some dinner then mess around with photos and listing while listening to music. Do some knitting in bed, read some books (currently Elric of Melniboné).

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
OAS: Werewolves would destroy both in my mind. I think a Zombie Velociraptor would be cool though. I wouldn't mind going a few rounds with Erik Northman. Overall can I vote werewolf?

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
OAS: Hmm I would have to say werewolf, part nice normal girl, part blood thirsty crazed and obsessed with total annihilation.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
OAS: I actually don’t know anything about either of those as they are American and I live in Australia. We have things here called Bunyips which I suppose are like Sasquatch but are more evil spirits than dumb monster things. I think they are real, growing up in the bush I was pretty afraid of them.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
OAS: Robots! Germs kill Aliens!! Hopefully some hot ones.

CZ: What scares you?
OAS: Hmmm.... not achieving anything in life is terrifying, people with no will to do anything with their life. I also really hate caterpillars.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
OAS: Hmm… I would like to think I would be against to begin with then get turned in some glorious rampage of zombie slaughter culminating in being munched on and then becoming a zombie. That way I can try out both sides of the zombie apocalypse coin.

You can follow Holly and her art at these places:
http://www.ordoatraserpentis.etsy.com/
http://lycanthropica.blogspot.com/
http://lycanthropica.deviantart.com/
http://ordoatraserpentis.blogspot.com/

Idlehandsdesigns Giveaway Winner!

2010-08-16T09:39:00.000-04:00

Once again, I'd like to say thank you to all of the participants!

The winner of the Happy Phantom necklace is Tragic Bat! She has been contacted and has 48 hours to respond to my message. If at that point I have not heard from her I will pick a new winner.

I'm a little disappointed that we didn't get enough entries to unlock the second prize. I had raised the number because I've got so many more followers now then I did for the last giveaway - I had every expectation of meeting or surpassing the new required number! Maybe next time?

I'm not sure what our next contest will be but you can be sure, with Halloween fast approaching, that there will be one. ;)

Step Right Up! To my Ringmaster costume idea that is... ;)

2010-08-14T16:36:00.000-04:00

Circuses and carnivals have always had a creepy feel about them, therefore they make great Halloween fodder! So this week I’m going to cover a burlesque style Ringmaster costume!
I absolutely fell in love with lovechildboudoir’s work when I featured her in my Vampire Vixen piece. When I saw her Carnivale shrug I knew that I had to feature it too!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/53219483/carnivale-queen-burlesque-cirque

I’m pairing it with a cute tuxedo styled corset from kittyohara that has very simple lines to keep them from fighting for attention. SistersOfTheMoon’s huge Ringmaster tutu is the perfect compliment for the top half of our costume.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/43793896/corset-of-the-month-april-the-tuxedo

http://www.etsy.com/listing/42536816/the-ring-master-huge-poofy-red-and-black

These adorable red spats from StraightRazorSlasher will dress up any pair of heels you decide to go with for the occasion!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/40115971/heart-slasher-spats-unisex

And no master of ceremonies could be complete without their top hat and mustache! We’ll do a cute/girly take on these with a glittery mini from DeannaDangerDesigns and a sterling silver ‘stache by idlehandsdesigns.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/51017322/big-top-mini-top-hat-by-deanna-danger

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45706975/fancy-mustache-necklace-oxidized

Now add some fishnet stockings and a trademark whip and you’ll be dressed to impress ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, and children of all ages! ;)

Q&A with Erin R. Kelly of Somnambulant

2010-08-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

Erin has a HUGE imagination. Her art and stories can keep me entertained for hours! If you have a quirky sense of humor her shops are not to be missed. Take a peek into her head with this interview.

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
ERK: I'm a 31-year-old teenager who lives for Warped Tour, loves annoying people, and would consider sexing up a carnie if it meant I could travel with a carnival and ride the Zipper all summer.
I live in Pittsburgh with four cats, a 4-year-old son who requires a muzzle and restraints, and a super fantastic boyfriend who does everything but breathe for me and wipe my butt. (I'm only saying nice things about him today because he bought me lavender gelato and I have a real THANG for lavender-infused food.)
Things I might accept from you:
• Mixed CDs
• grilled cheese (especially when made with fancy cheese on pumpernickel)
• Draven shoes in a size 7.5
• Anything to do with The Cure
• a date to watch horror movies

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
ERK: I sell outsider art, paired with cautionary tales; pendants of said art; photographs from photoshoots I do involving plastic lens cameras and animal masks (those come with stories too); serial killer Valentines and Christmas cards.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
ERK: I'm inspired by lyrics of bands I like (currently Pierce the Veil, Chiodos, Emarosa, Dance Gavin Dance, & Circa Survive will come into play the most) and of course how I'm feeling about life. I'm actually taking a break from the art side of my Etsy ventures. I had a rough falling out with a good friend and she was always my #1 fan, so it's kind of depressing for me right now to hold a paint brush.
Hopefully I will reach the point where that WILL be my motivation to persevere!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
ERK: A few months ago, I totally got a convo from some lady who said she assumed I was a teenage boy based on my writing style and that she was "surprised" she ended up liking my art anyway. I laughed about that for hours. Then punched my head.
For real though, a customer returned a few weeks ago and asked that I make a miniature version of the Cupcake Couple I had previously painted of her and her fiancé, so that they could use it as the cake topper at their upcoming wedding.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?

ERK: I guess I always knew, maybe since middle school, because I found things funny that weren't supposed to be. But I was always good at keeping my thoughts to myself. However, I remember in high school, sometime in 1996, I wrote a satirical essay on funeral homes for English class. Most of the kids in my class were like, "What the f**k is wrong with you?" but my teacher was dying at her desk when she read it out loud. It was always the teachers who were "getting" my humor, and not the kids.
But probably mostly it was 7th grade when I realized I was the only one raiding cemeteries for dinner.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
ERK: This Darksider spends the first half of her day praying that her child won't suddenly develop the ability to kill people with his thoughts. If I'm lucky, he'll let me catch up some of my DVRd shows (like The Real World, I won't lie). Then in the evening, I put on my super-professional facade and sit at a desk at a super-professional downtown law firm, where I assist attorneys in the Conflicts Department. Basically, I scan s**t into pdf's.
If I'm lucky, I will get time to write obnoxious tales in my blog, spy on my neighbors, and maybe get in a nice sweaty run at the cemetery. I love exercising in cemeteries. There - that's something about me.

CZ: Zombies or Vampires?

ERK: I love both, but I think I'll go with vampires. (Not Twilight, don't worry!) Lost Boys will always be my jam.
My son is the household zombie fanatic.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
ERK: I don't think this is so much identifying with as much as I want to have his unkillable baby, but Michael Myers. I am oddly attracted to him. In fact, I started dating my boyfriend nine years ago because he was a delivery driver at the company I worked for, and when he wore his blue coveralls, he reminded me of good ol' Mike.
Every haunted house I go to, it's like Michael Myers just KNOWS he could get into my pants if he wanted to, so I'm always singled out. One of them had me pinned to a wall one time and it was like porn for me. Meanwhile, the person behind the mask could look like Clay Aiken and I wouldn't care.

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
ERK: Sasquatch, totally. That's why I won't go camping. Well, that and because I'm a priss.

CZ: What scares you?
ERK: Outer space, the ocean, glaciers, Alaska, water towers, power plants, being murdered, stumbling upon a shipwreck, open closet doors at night.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
ERK: With you, but please make sure I don't take a bullet to the head. I'm not good at paying attention.

Don't miss a single hilarious thought from Erin - follow her antics here:
http://ohhonestlyerin.com/
http://somnambulant.etsy.com/
http://appledale.etsy.com/
http://noncomposcards.etsy.com/

Lucky Number 13 - Friday the 13th Edition!

2010-08-09T12:00:00.001-04:00

As I've posted before, on the 13th of every month I will be offering a Buy One Get One Free deal on my Original Art Prints. If it happens to be Friday the 13th, like the one coming up, you'll get a free gift too! Now is a great time to start buying Halloween decorations (or gifts for your Halloween friends!) and you shouldn't miss out on a good deal!
When you check out, please put the name of the print you'd like for free in the Message to Seller box.
You can see all of your choices here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CustomZombie?section_id=6065168

Idlehandsdesigns Giveaway!

2010-08-02T13:05:00.001-04:00

Idlehandsdesigns was gracious enough to offer a Happy Phantom Necklace as a giveaway prize!
(I love this necklace! Would it be wrong to enter my own contest? ;))

http://www.etsy.com/listing/43074286/happy-phantom-skull-necklace-oxidized

Be sure to follow all the rules. Earn as many entries as possible and spread the word! If we get 40 contestants I will throw in a second prize! I’ll be using Random.org to pick the winner(s) and will contact them the morning of August 16th. Good luck to you all!

Rules for entry:

Make sure I have SOME way to contact you if you win (Blogspot, Facebook, Twitter, Etsy, email, etc). Entries with no form of contact will be deleted.

If you win, you have 48 hours to respond to my contact. If I have not heard from you by that time I will pick a new winner.

You must post links to your actions here. If I can’t verify that you actually posted where you say you did your entries won’t count.

Please post all actions in the same comment so I can see how many entrants there are in a glance. It is okay to make more than one comment if you come back later and complete more actions.

Go browse Idlehandsdesigns’ shop. Leave a comment on this blog post telling me what your favorite item is. This earns your first entry!

You have until August 15th, at 11:59 pm EST to enter.

How to gain extra entries:

+1 entry - Heart Idlehandsdesigns’ shop (new and existing count).

+1 entry – Be or become a follower of Idlehandsdesigns’ blog.

+1 entry - Subscribe to the feed of Idlehandsdesigns’ blog with a feed reader (new and existing count).

+1 entry – Be or become a follower of @idle_hands on twitter.

+1 entry – Be or become a fan of Idlehandsdesigns on Facebook.

+2 entries - Blog about this giveaway.

+2 entries - Tweet (Twitter) about this giveaway.

+2 entries - Make a Facebook post about this giveaway.

+5 entries - Make a purchase from Idlehandsdesigns’ shop and post the transaction ID here!

+5 entries - Make a purchase from my shop and post the transaction ID here!

Q&A with Idlehandsdesigns

2010-08-02T13:00:00.002-04:00

Idlehandsdesigns is one of the most amazing metal smiths I’ve ever seen! Her tastes are on the darker side but still light enough that anyone can find something in her shop. She took the time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions for us!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
IHD: I live in Seattle with my hubby and our two boston terriers named Ruby Sue and PJ. Here in the emerald city I enjoy long days slicing, burning and beating up metal from my home studio. Creating special pieces for special people all over the world. Thank you Etsy! Our household is 100% vegetarian and always buzzing with music ❥

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
IHD: Rings, necklaces and earrings. Oh and the cufflinks and resin work are new. I have two other brands that I want to start up before I leave this planet!

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
IHD: I'm mostly inspired by music and all things spooky. I design for myself and with friends or musicians in mind. It's very important to me that my jewelry is well loved and durable. I'm not as concerned with volume as I am with building a connection. Each sutured heart necklace has a story of heartbreak or recovery. And the mustaches and brothel tokens are fun!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
IHD: Etsy's blog featuring me in the top of '09! And twice ::) (You can check it out here: Spotlight)

CZ: You’ve been featured on Etsy’s front page over 30 times (WOW!) – which spotlighted piece is your favorite and why?
IHD: I was most proud of them featuring my sutured heart. It's my signature piece and have been making it for like five years now. In general Etsy featuring me has been huge for my confidence. It's a silly thing to be hung up on but my lack of confidence holds me back. So I'm working on that!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?

IHD: High school it started to sink in. For my 16th birthday I asked my mom for tarot cards and aromatherapy. I didn't get the tarot cards but an encyclopedia of aromatherapy along with lemongrass and lavender oil! It hasn't been until the last five years until I've embraced my inner weirdness. Ever since then things have gotten more awesome!

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
IHD: I'm presently a one lady operation, so my days are super long. Filled with corresponding about and making unique jewelry. Wrapping and packing orders. Building a community web on the internet. I also take all of my product shots as well as run the marketing department. Few... good thing I have amazing family. Support is nice.
When I'm not "working" I enjoying taking my two crazy sidekicks to the park and going to shows with my husband.

CZ: Zombies or Vampires?

IHD: Eeek! Vampires ::)

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most?
IHD: Liz from Hellboy

CZ: Which elusive creepy creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
IHD: I'm gonna have to go with Mr. Sasquatch since he's a local celebrity ::)

CZ: What scares you?

IHD: Being lame.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
IHD: Hell yes!

Idlehandsdesigns is a busy girl but you can keep up with all her doings at these places:
www.idlehandsdesigns.com
www.idlehandsdesigns.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.com/idle-hands-designs - Fans get special perks!
http://idlehandsdesigns.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/idle_hands

Idlehandsdesigns is also a proud member of Etsy's Dark Side team. You can find more about the team here:
www.etsydarkteam.webs.com
www.facebook.com/etsydarkteam

Learning to Sew

2010-07-29T18:15:00.000-04:00

I just got home from spending the last three days with my grandmother, learning how to sew. I bought a machine and wanted to learn how to use it so I wouldn’t have to bother her with all of my Halloween costume projects and my mending (do you know how big a pain it is to drive 2 hours one way to get a new zipper put in something?!).

I thought making some pieces for mine and my husband’s 2010 costumes might be a good learning experience. Suffice it to say that she ended up doing 85% of the work because the projects were way over my head, but I did learn how to use my machine and I did do some of the sewing. I even learned how to sew by hand. Hey, give me a break – I never took Home Ec. in school!

As frustrating as the projects were, we had fun and I feel like I could tackle an easier pattern soon. So here’s to the start of (hopefully) some great handmade Halloween costumes!

Q&A with DoBatsEatCats

2010-07-26T13:00:00.001-04:00

Every day is Halloween in DoBatsEatCats’ shop! She makes jewelry for the goth at heart – funky yet still dark – and her chainmail is gorgeous too! She even has some pretties that my mom would approve of. ;) Read all about her here!

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
DBEC: I'm a born-and-raised Chicagoan, currently living in the city with my boyfriend and my cat. I've always been involved in something creative, for as long as I can remember, whether it was acting, dance, music, or various forms of crafting. I started making jewelry years ago because I could never find what I was looking for in stores, and I opened my Etsy shop in August 2009. I was so excited to have found a venue where other crafters were successfully selling their work! When I'm not crafting, I'm working at my day job in textbook publishing, belly dancing (I used to dance with a troupe but am presently on an extended hiatus due to work and life stuff), or wandering around the city.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
DBEC: I make creepy and sparkly gothic, Victorian-inspired, and Celtic jewelry. But it's not all gloom and doom in my shop -- I've been known to combine bright shiny colors with my skulls and bats and I try not to take the whole goth aesthetic too seriously. I've also recently added a line of chainmaille jewelry to my shop -- I took a chainmaille class and have found myself utterly addicted to this art. It's the perfect meditative craft for someone who's obsessive about little details like me! Many items are one of a kind, and I love taking custom orders -- in fact, some of my favorite pieces have been collaborations between myself and a buyer.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
DBEC: Two things that inspire me are literature and found objects. I'm just a wee bit obsessed with Neil Gaiman and have done a number of Sandman - and Coraline - inspired pieces, most of which have sold so I am working on replenishing those. I've also done a number of Alice in Wonderland - inspired pieces in homage to my shop name (which is taken from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland"; unfortunately I can't claim credit for dreaming that up!).

I also love scouring yard sales and unusual sources for discarded sparkly things that I can make into something new. It's amazing the things people will get rid of! I recently created a couple of pieces made from upcycled chandelier parts, and more are on the way. We have an ancient chandelier in our front hallway and pieces started falling off of it -- so of course I've been transforming them into jewelry! My boyfriend did suggest at one point, "You know, you could just reattach those," but I think I just gave him a blank look, hahaha. I'm sure I'll eventually end up cannibalizing the entire thing.

I'm motivated by the possibility of one day being able to go out on my own and support myself through my art. I am not the corporate type AT ALL, and now that I've been in corporate America for a good 15 years or so, I'm finally coming to terms with the idea that I don't fit there and that's OK. Every time I have a bad day at the office, it only makes me want to work harder on my shop!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
DBEC: I had a buyer who purchased a bracelet and earring set from my shop and she was so pleased with it, she asked me to design her wedding jewelry. That was a really high compliment -- to be trusted by a complete stranger to create something to be worn on such an important day. I felt honored!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
DBEC: I haven't been "like the other kids" for as long as I can remember. My parents raised me to be an individual so I grew up with the idea that following the crowd wasn't a cool thing to do. I was a verbally precocious kid who began reading early, and I remember the neighborhood kids going up to my mom and asking her why I "used funny words" because I had a bigger vocabulary than they did. I also caused a stir in the seventh grade when I showed up at the school roller-skating party wearing black vinyl pants and a matching vest. At a Catholic school, no less. However, I then went through a long and ill-advised period of conformity that lasted into my early 20s, when I decided to give up trying to "pass" as normal -- I never was very good at it anyway!

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
DBEC: I spend an inordinate amount of time at my day job -- publishing is a tough and stressful field. My evenings are generally spent creating and listing new items, hanging out with my boy and my cat, or cooking something yummy and vegetarian.

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
DBEC: Vampires -- their aesthetic and fashion sense is far superior to that of zombies, in my opinion. Unless we're talking about those vampires that sparkle in the sun -- then, zombies.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
DBEC: Probably the girl who immediately gets killed at the beginning of any slasher movie. I freely admit that I run like a girl and fight like a girl -- I'd have no chance whatsoever at fending off a psycho serial killer!

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
DBEC: I think they're both real and are off having margaritas with the Loch Ness Monster and a very-much-alive Elvis.

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
DBEC: Robots, definitely. I can totally see "Battlestar Galactica" becoming a reality -- people getting too dependent on their electronic devices (iPhone, anyone?!) which then evolve without our really noticing it, become sentient and rebel. Aliens are just going to kidnap you and probe your various orifices, right?

CZ: What scares you?
DBEC: Those freaking "weeping angels" from Doctor Who. Those things scare the crap out of me! I had a nightmare not too long ago that the weeping angels invaded a craft fair I was showing at. They left my jewelry alone but seemed very interested in infecting the handmade soap being sold at the table next to me. I was running around warning people not to buy the soap because they'd be letting a weeping angel into their bathroom. Yeah, I have issues....

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
DBEC: BRAAAAAAAAIIIIINNNNNS. uh, I mean, with you! I took one of those "would you survive the zombie apocalypse" quizzes and utterly failed it, so my only hope is to join the undead masses!

Make sure to keep up with DoBatsEatCats at any of these websites!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/DoBatsEatCats
http://www.facebook.com/DoBatsEatCats
http://twitter.com/DoBatsEatCats
http://dobatseatcatsonetsy.blogspot.com/

Agonysdecay Giveaway Winners!

2010-07-26T08:47:00.000-04:00

Thanks so much to all of you who participated in the contest!

Ella is the winner of her choice of ring from Agonysdecay!

And since we had more than 20 people enter I unlocked a second prize of a $15 credit to my Etsy store (http://www.customzombie.etsy.com/) - the winner of that prize is erin!

The winners have been contacted and have 48 hours to respond to my messages. If at that point I have not heard from them I will pick a new winner/winners.

Oh, and I'll have another fantastic contest coming up soon - you won't want to miss this one! Check back often so you can get in on the action. :)

Vampire Vixen

2010-07-21T13:52:00.000-04:00

I always struggle with deciding on a costume that I think no one else will be wearing. This always keeps me from going as one of the classic costumes – namely a vampire. So I thought I’d take some time looking around Etsy for unique vampire pieces. I found some great items!

This fabulous “Lady Lovecraft” shrug from lovechildboudoir sets the entire tone for our costume.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/27576825/the-lady-lovecraft-burlesque-victoriana

I wanted a top that was elegant and attractive but still let the shrug be the “star”. A lacy, silk corset from decadentdesignz was the perfect choice. AISHAX’s Vampire’s Delight skirt was the obvious pick to finish off the outfit.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/39341190/black-silk-overbust-corset-made-to

http://www.etsy.com/listing/31398430/vampires-delight-cincher-corset-long

Fabulize makes these awesome Victorian spats that I think screams Vampire, as do these sexy fingerless gloves from ZenAndCoffee!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/36789781/victorian-pleather-spats

http://www.etsy.com/listing/51565874/bound-elegant-black-gothic-lolita-corset

Now on to the jewelry that helps pull the whole look together! I found two great rings, one for each hand: a ruby red stunner from CuriousGoodsCurios and an incredible bird skull ring by billyblue22. A bold necklace from EJPcreations tops the whole thing off magnificently!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47888415/reduced-price-stunning-vintage-victorian

http://www.etsy.com/listing/51390144/bird-skull-ring-silver-plated-metal-on

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45482476/necklace-neo-victorian-a-stitch-in-time

Agonysdecay Giveaway!

2010-07-19T13:05:00.005-04:00

Today we’ve got a giveaway from Agonysdecay! The prize is your choice of ring from her shop! Check out the choices HERE!

Be sure to follow all the rules. Earn as many entries as possible and spread the word! If we get 20 contestants I will throw in a second prize! I’ll be using Random.org to pick the winner(s) and will contact them the morning of July 26th. Good luck to you all!

Rules for entry:
Make sure I have SOME way to contact you if you win (Blogspot, Facebook, Twitter, Etsy, etc). Entries with no form of contact will be deleted.

If you win, you have 48 hours to respond to my contact. If I have not heard from you by that time I will pick a new winner.

You must post links to your actions here. If I can’t verify that you actually posted where you say you did your entries won’t count.

Please post all actions in the same comment so I can see how many entrants there are in a glance. It is okay to post more than one comment if you come back later and complete more actions.

Go browse Agonysdecay’s shop. Leave a comment on this blog post telling me what your favorite item is. This earns your first entry!

You have until July 25th, at 11:59 pm EST to enter.

How to gain extra entries:
+1 entry - Heart Agonysdecay’s shop (new and existing count).

+1 entry – Be or become a follower of Etsy’s Dark Side blog.

+1 entry - Subscribe to the feed of Etsy’s Dark Side blog with a feed reader (new and existing count).

+1 entry – Be or become a follower of @ EtsysDarkSide on twitter.

+1 entry – Be or become a fan of Etsy’s Dark Side on Facebook.

+2 entries - Blog about this giveaway.

+2 entries - Tweet (Twitter) about this giveaway.

+2 entries - Make a Facebook post about this giveaway.

+5 entries - Make a purchase from Agonysdecay’s shop and post the transaction ID here!

+5 entries - Make a purchase from my shop and post the transaction ID here!

Q&A with Agonysdecay!

2010-07-19T13:00:00.002-04:00

Jenny from Agonysdecay is a very busy ghoul! She makes a ton of different stuff and she does it all well. Her soaps are adorable (or creepy if your tastes aren’t like mine!) and smell great, her cameos are quality work….I could go on and on! Instead I’ll just let you read more about her and her art here:

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
AD: I'm a sweet transvestite, from transexual transylvania!! Really, I'm just an old spooky woman who enjoys making items that cater to the darker side of life. Death and all its components fascinate me. I am also a mother of a very mouthy 9 year old who likes Hannah Montana! JOY! By day, I take care of the terminally ill, mentally and physically disabled, and the elderly. Because of this experience, I'm hoping not to live past 60 ;)

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
AD: I sell mostly macabre and dark items. However, there are tons of items in my shop that are not spooky themed! I sell jewelry, soap, paper goodies, hair accessories, and OOAK items. I take custom orders for almost everything in my shop. I also take large custom orders for Gothic/Alternative weddings.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop?
AD: Since I was a little girl working with arts and crafts always amazed me. So, I'd have to say that my late mother was my inspiration. She wouldn't approve of the subject matter and style of my work but she was the one who initiated making things. My main source of inspiration is the dead, horror movies, music, and not to forget graveyards. ;)

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
AD: I have a special friend who has been shopping with me for years now. I'm pretty sure she owns every piece in my shop. She has given me the best compliments. Although there are many to choose from, I think my favorite is that she always says how much emotion, thought, and care I put into each item and package. This is a huge compliment to me because I do take a lot of time in each item and packaging.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
AD: When my parents died I had to move to a new town. It wasn't hard to realize that I wasn't like the other kids! Some of you elder spookies should remember this, when nose rings and colored hair was NOT acceptable. I was one of those unaccepted people and lived through that day. Only to grow up, get old, and see that EVERYONE and their mothers do it now...and its accepted!

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
AD: A typical day in the life of agonysdecay is just that, agony and decay.

CZ: Zombies or Vampires?
AD: Honestly, both. Zombies because one day, Zombies will be created (which they already are) for population control. I know that I will taken by Zombies just because they freak me out....the real life aspect of them. On screen, they fascinate me ;) Vampires? Why? They are the hottest damn creatures out there! I'll have to invent and modify the immortal factor though, who in the hell would want to live forever....

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most?
AD: Michael Myers, he is my love machine and my hubby.

CZ: What scares you?
AD: Many things scare me. Sharks. I'm REALLY afraid of sharks. As a child I used to swim far out into the ocean and never gave it a second thought. Nowadays you will find my pale legs and feet barely standing by the shore. Dead people in water. Yes, a strange fear. I am terrified of EVER finding a dead body in water. When I go to the lake or river, I always think I'm going to step into a dead bloated carcass. Specifically someones skull. To imagine what this would feel like and look like haunts me constantly. Cars submerged under water. Yes, another strange fear. I can't stand the thought of cars in water...and if they have dead people in them, shooooot me now! I'd probably have to commit myself if I was ever to see a dead person in a car, underwater.

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
AD: If 'us' are the Zombies, I'm going to die of fear anyhow so I'll be with you.

Check out all the great items Jenny offers in her shop and visit her often here:
http://www.agonysdecay.etsy.com/

Etsy Dark Team's Count Down to Halloween: Red Velvet Cake Eyeballs

2010-07-15T16:08:00.002-04:00

Have you guys seen the article I wrote for the Dark Side's blog? You haven't? Well what are you waiting for? Go check it out! :D

Etsy Dark Team: Red Velvet Cake Eyeballs

Etsy's Dark Side Facebook Page Reaches 1000 Fans!

2010-07-12T23:05:00.000-04:00

I am all kinds of excited about the Dark Side reaching 1000 fans on our Facebook page! So I'm having a storewide sale! Some of our other members are also having sales or giveaways! You can check out all the goings on here: http://etsysdarksideteam.blogspot.com/2010/07/come-celebrate-1k-fans-with.html
Check back often as there are still sales/giveaways being added!

P.S. My storewide sale CAN work in conjuction with my BOGO on the 13th deal! ;)

Q&A with CreationsByAngelia

2010-07-12T13:48:00.001-04:00

If you are a belly dancer or just into that fashion you NEED to check out Creations By Angelia’s shop! She also has some great items for the goth or steampunk at heart. :) Read more about her here:

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
CBA: I'm a stay at home mom of two, wife to one. I sew in my own sweat shop (the garage) in my 'spare' time. Meaning I sew after the kids go to bed and I'm up half the night. I started sewing items for dancing because it was sooo hard to find anything in a REAL plus sizes. I started with skirts and have expanded from there.

CZ: What type of items do you sell?
CBA: Creations By Angelia is primarily Belly Dance and Fusion dance themed items. 10 and 25 yard hem skirts, corset vests and belts, bustles and stylized bustle skirts, 4 yard Pantaloons, ghawazee style coats, and more... almost all items are custom made to order. There is a variety of items that are ready made and I LOVE to do custom work!! Most of my stuff is suitable for Ren Faire and SCA type dancing~

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop and what keeps you motivated?
CBA: I started my shop just because I wanted people to have options for costuming. I sew for EVERY size, since no one size is right. I sew for both women and men, and love when people are repeat customers!!
My main motivation is to keep feeding and caring for my Rescue Horses! My Ty and Gracie. Both are older but fun to ride!

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
CBA: I remember when I got a phone call from a lady who had ordered a custom pair of 4 yard pants and a matching vest. She had a hard time finding costumes because she was so small. She called me and told me that in class that night, she had worn her stuff and had felt like a queen, graceful and beautiful. Told me that she could tell it wasn't just a "job" for me. That I put a piece of myself into every piece of costuming that I create. It was almost as though she "got" it. I may make many simple items, but I care about who is going to wear them!

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
CBA: Uh... I've always been a bit off from others~ I was into vampires, zombies, monsters, ghosts and more when I was in grade school. As soon as I learned to read I was reading creepy books and every "real ghost story" type of book I could get my hands on. I grew up before Goosebumps and books like that. Remember the books Scary Stories to tell in the Dark and More Scary Stories to tell in the Dark??? Loved ‘em....

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
CBA: Typical day for me, sleep in till I have to drag my butt out of bed (hubby's currently out of work, so he's been getting up with the kids) Eat my breakfast while doing emails and checking orders and things like that. Do my day to day stuff, house work, laundry and so on... Spend about an hour and a half feeding and grooming my horses, then coming home and making dinner, getting kids into bath and shower, into bed, and then I can stop and go work on my projects! I stay up till 3-4 am... I've always been a bit of a night owl. I do read a lot in bed before I go to sleep~ It flavors my dreams~

CZ: Do you prefer zombies or vampires?
CBA: Hmmm I prefer vampires. not sparkly ones though... (those are fairy's with teeth). I do like wolves, and love how they have been getting portrayed in lots of books, and a few TV shows as "real" looking Wolves. Not just manimals...

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most and why?
CBA: Carrie~ I was always the odd person out in School, and still am! I always wished I could maim them. It made me a stronger person! Too bad I can’t make things move with my mind...

CZ: Which elusive creature do you believe is more likely to be real: El Chupacabra or Sasquatch?
CBA: Sasquatch. I live in the Northwest~ We have ‘em EVERYWHERE!

CZ: Who is more likely to enslave the human race - aliens or robots?
CBA: Well... I think we have enslaved ourselves... LOL But perhaps Aliens because they would be smarter than us.

CZ: What scares you?
CBA: Clowns. For real. Since I was a small child, they SCARED THE CRAP OUTTA ME! My Mom still laughs about it.
I'm also afraid of things in deep water. I love to swim, and have no issues swimming in deep water, but there is always that fear that something is gonna get me!

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
CBA: Depends... do they want my brains?

You can keep up with Angelia’s work by visiting these sites:
www.creationsbyangelia.com
www.creationsbyangelia.etsy.com
www.strumpetsdelight.etsy.com

EJPcreations Giveaway Winners!

2010-07-12T10:07:00.001-04:00

First I want to say thanks to everyone who participated! I had far more entries than I expected for such a new blog. :) Now, on to the winners!

The winner of the "Time Waits For No Woman" earrings donated by EJPcreations is Roxy!

And since we had more than 20 people enter I unlocked a second prize of a $15 credit to my Etsy store (http://www.customzombie.etsy.com/) - the winner of that prize is amanda!

The winners have 48 hours to respond to my messages. If at that point I have not heard from them I will pick a new winner/winners.

As a consolation prize and a thank you to those who entered the giveaway but did not win I am offering 10% off your entire purchase in my shop (excluding shipping charges) until the end of the day on Friday (the 16th)! To be eligible for the discount please put "CZUR giveaway" and the username you used to enter the contest in the Message to Seller box. The discount amount will be refunded via PayPal

Pinup Model for a Day

2010-07-07T17:27:00.003-04:00

I was helping a friend with some costume ideas and we were discussing awesome pinup fashion - that was the inspiration for this post! I wanted to go for a 1950’s bad girl look. I hope you enjoy what I came up with!

Every fifties goddess needs a pencil skirt whether she’s a pinup model or a rockabilly rebel. ZombieKittenO makes the perfect skirt for this outfit – the zipper up the back adds just enough “edginess”.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48084454/black-plain-jane-pencil-skirt-rockabilly

A polka-dotted, corset lacing, halter from psychodollclothing reminds you that even bad girls have a feminine side.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/44586714/all-polkadot-print-pinup

Taylorsays hand paints the soles of shoes and she has a pair that’s just right for our costume! They say “sexy” from the front and “hardcore” from behind!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48133774/like-woah

What kind of bad girl would we be without a leather jacket?! This cropped, biker style from snefter works great with the look (by the way, enjoy 25% off any item in their shop if you mention my blog!).

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50498939/vintage-fitted-black-leather-cropped

Now that we have a fabulous outfit for our rockabilly pinup queen we’ve got to top it off with equally fabulous accessories! We’ll do some classic fifties style with dhandf’s birdcage veil fascinator and an awesome pair of vintage cat eye glasses from NatinNYC. Then we’ll add some tattoo inspired rockabilly pieces for jewelry (a pair of dice necklace by treasuredcharms and Lucky 13 earrings from MarketStreetBroads).

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47989179/black-satin-veiled-mini-hat

http://www.etsy.com/listing/44123274/vintage-french-cat-eye-two-tone

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50501190/dice-silver-plated-charm-necklace-on-a

http://www.etsy.com/listing/34354225/lucky-13-earrings

Now, if you’re like me, we’ll need a little help pulling off a retro hairstyle! MissDemented has a black, wavy wig that will do the job beautifully! Just add a pair of fishnet stockings with a seam up the back and you're a pinup hottie for the night! :D

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48231038/long-curly-layered-black-wig

Q&A with Slainne

2010-07-05T13:00:00.001-04:00

Slainne is the man to see if you are into fantasy art! His sculpts cover a variety of interesting subjects, from sharks and dragons to zombies and living trees. Each pieces has a story that really sucks you in and makes you want to know more. He was nice enough to give us a peek into that creative mind of his here:

CZ: Tell us a little about yourself!
S: I've lived in Southern California my entire life, anywhere from Palm Springs to Angelus Oaks (below Big Bear) & all around the Inland Empire. I did grow up In San Bernardino, which is the most awkward name for a town, but I'm back living here now on the border of Loma Linda. By day I work at the local hospital - helping to watch patients at my station.
I really have worked a variety of jobs but my most important one was at the studio (SpotLight Designs), that's where I learned how to mold & do reproduction work for my Art. At night or my days off I like to create my art work. I guess I was the kid that always had his head in a fantasy novel or D&D book. I started off with painting & modding miniatures then I had taken several sculpting classes.
I'm also a huge gamer but it’s a lot better when I convince friends to join in. I'm a avid beer fan but not a heavy drinker - people never believe you if your stomach isn't completely flat =D. I'm into a lot of music, from industrial, alternative, electronic & underground music - too much to list!

CZ: What type of items do you sell?

S: I sell miniatures, candle holders, incense burners, wall hangings, fantasy/dungeon relief statuettes & now even magnets. I'm sure I have several other things that are in a few categories. Most everything I make is either fantasy/horror themed but I have done a few wildlife pieces as well. I think everyone has seen my reef shark.

CZ: What is the inspiration behind your shop?
S: There's something cool about old ruins or some forgotten dungeon. So I just kinda went with that in mind. Sanctum can mean "Holy place" but it also can mean a secretive place of importance. I'm just full of myself lol. I am doing a shop revamp pretty soon so I have to learn how to make a new banner. So something to look forward to. =)

CZ: What is the greatest compliment you have received about your work?
S: Let me start with the least compliment I've ever received. It was once suggested that I sell my original art work to thrift shops...*gasp* I started to see red…hehe. I've actually had a lot of good compliments ranking about the same. I've heard that I should be selling my work all over the Country & they are genuinely surprised I don't sell more than I do - or they're good actors lol.

CZ: When did you first realize that you weren’t “like the other kids”?
S: When they would hold me down & torture me…joking - but that's not far from the truth! It wasn't until 6th grade that I started to draw my first "monsters". I always liked creating - even at a young age.

CZ: What’s a typical day in the life of this Dark Sider like?
S: Ahh well, you've caught me at a bad time where I'm still getting out of my vacation mode.. hehe. I'm a pretty laid back person. If I'm not at work or in front of my computer then it’s a good bet I'm at my art desk sculpting or drawing a concept design away & listening to music or a show on DVD I've watched a hundred times. I still make time for family & friends. Sometimes it’s hard juggling everything but being single does help. I can literally do what I want when I want. That generally ends up being a new project for me though =D

CZ: Zombies or Vampires?
S: I choose Skeletons…hah! Joking - I really do like zombies & vampires. I just tend to do more skull art. Now if you’re asking what would I rather be…hmm…I don't want to taste anyone's brains so I would go with the vampire on that one.

CZ: Which horror character do you identify with most?
S: Probably Roger Cobb from "House". I've had many people not believe me during my life so I know exactly how He would have felt if he were a real person. I have also lived in a haunted house.

CZ: What scares you?
S: The thought of being stuck at my job forever…let’s just make sure that doesn't happen!

CZ: When my undead masses take over will you be with us or against us?
S: If I can wear my Necro armor & command undead of my own then I would be with you.. Muhahah! >=)

Don’t miss what Slainne will come up with next! Keep an eye on his Etsy shop.
http://www.slainne.etsy.com/