Thursday, August 5, 2010

giveaway & a collection: with the empty nest



.................................

i just love seeing what folks are collecting. i guess i kind of feel it tells us just a little bit about what inspires them, what they love, and what they choose to surround themselves with in their home. today, i'm delighted to present the next in the rikrak studio's collections series: 11 & a 1/2 quick questions with a wonderful artist on what they're collecting, (apart from their art supplies! ) you can also check out my new *the collectors* series on Etsy, based on these posts! hope you'll just love: porcelain tea cups and saucers with the empty nest. 
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who (are you) : My name is Janet Metzger, the lady behind 'The Empty Nest' on Etsy

what (are you collecting): Something I love collecting is porcelain teacup and saucers.

when (did you start) : My fascination began 35 years ago when my good friend threw me a bridal shower and everyone there had a different teacup for their coffee and tea. I fell instantly in love!
how (many do you have?): I currently own approx 70 sets in all colors and styles. English, Japanese, Chinese and European origin. 

where (do you find them) : I have purchased most of mine at auctions or thrift shops like Salvation Army and Goodwill. I have been lucky enough to have many given to me also.

where (do you keep them) : I own two china cabinets and they are crammed with teacups...I am bursting at the seams. 

what (‘s a crazy/interesting story behind one) : Once at an auction in Texas, at the end of the evening, I was bidding on a beautiful 20 piece set of Japanese Nippon china tea set. Nippon is famous for the gorgeous raised 24k gold decoration on their porcelain. I got into a bidding war with a man on the other side of the room, who I could not see from my spot. I was devastated to lose to this gentleman when the bidding got too rich for me. A few minutes later the man came up to me with a box and handed it to me...inside was the Nippon china I was trying to buy. He didn't really need it that badly and he thought I would appreciate them more than him...He GAVE them to me!! 

what (piece would you like to add): I don't really have anything specific I am looking for.
why (do you love them) : I just love the feminine look and the way they feel in your hands when drinking from them...just elegant. I love them all.

which (one is your favourite) & why : One of my favorites is my vintage Royal Doulton Brambly Hedge set. It is the season of Autumn from the Four Seasons Series. I adore the illustration of the little mouse asleep in his cozy bed with his stuffed rabbit...so cute.

what (else do you collect) : Aside from teacups I also swoon over gorgeous china plates and porcelain in general. Homer Laughlin and Johnson Brothers are current favorites. Recently found a 1940's Syracuse China coffee cup from an old Diner. I love the thought that a customer at the counter in an old diner drank coffee at 3 am from my cup. Absolute Americana! I'm addicted, much to my husbands dismay. He says I need a 12 step addiction program.


 

.....................

thanks so much, janet!
so lovely to join you for such a beautiful tea party!
thanks!


the empty nest's own beautiful artworks are a light & bright, sunny, airy complement to her collection as well! an expert of so many arts, i am always amazed as janet seemingly effortlessly masters a new artform or medium! her works in paint, fiber & fabric perfectly combine an eco-forward cottage-chic design with artisan stylings. 


and best of all, i've been lucky enough to get to know janet over the past little while as a dear sponsor on my blog, and am always inspired by her thoughtful, warm, generous personality.


isn't it great when an amazing artist is a wonderful person, too!?

the empty nest
shop | blog | twitter



read on to see how you can WIN an empty nest apron!







---> one lucky rikrak studio reader will win <--- 
this HOSTESS HALF APRON
WOW!

janet writes about the prize: "This lovely half hostess apron is perfect for all you English Cottage style mavins. I have styled the apron using 5 different high end designer fabrics, some vintage lace and gorgeous vintage buttons. The waistband has a gentle gathering for softness and the fabric ties are a beautiful blue Asian fan print.The color pallette is full of pinks, blues, greens, aqua and details like butterflies, fruit and seedpods. The lovely lace square is actually a pocket which is embellished with pretty buttons. I have sewn in a handy tea towel loop and embellished it with a fabulous vintage rhinestone button. This is some apron! Need a special gift for that best girlfriend who is always there for you? Maybe your Mom needs a thank you gift for all those times she babysat for your kids. This would be a gift that says ' I thought you deserved something special'.

Waistband measures approx. 25 inches with extra long fabric ties which makes this apron suitable for most body sizes.
Apron length measures approx. 20 inches
Apron skirt from side to side measures 36 inches

Please cold water wash and hang dry."




1. visit the lovely the Empty Nest shop
...  tell us about your favourite goodie & why you love it!
=   1 entry

... on etsy and tell us.
=   1 entry

3.  follow/subscribe to the Empty Nest blog
... & tell us.
=   1 entry

4. follow the Empty Nest (she's twitter.com/theemptynest ) & the rikrak shop (that's me! twitter.com/therikrakshopon twitter
... & tell us.
= 1 entry

5.  follow or subscribe to the rikrak studio blog
... & tell us.
= 1 entry

6. tweet on twitter
... about this giveaway and come back here and tell us! be sure to include @therikrakshop so i can find you! 
= 1 entry

7. tell us about who YOU'd love to have a teaparty with today!
= 1 entry

8. blog about this giveaway
... come back and tell us.
= 1 entry

9. :: PLEASE NOTE: 
each entry must be it's own comment.
thanks! ::


..........................................
:: RULES ::
a) it is possible to have a maximum of 8 entries total per person.
b) please make sure to leave each entry as it's own comment. thanks!

c) using random.org, 1 winner of the Empty Nest giveaway will be chosen on friday august 13th @ 9pm EST.
d) open to contestants worldwide.
e) please be sure to leave me an email where i can reach you if your account doesn't link to one. thanks.


................................................


yay to things wonderful folks!


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118 comments:

  1. Ok Krystal...I will be the first to comment and say "Thank You" for making me look so darn good ;-)
    I really appreciate all your hard work in promoting the 'buy handmade' way of life .
    Thanks again,
    Janet
    The Empty Nest

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love tea cups as well! I have a huge collection, too. Sadly, they are all packed away in boxes =(

    Anyway, I love this apron: http://www.etsy.com/listing/42783555/barefoot-in-the-park-couture-half-apron

    ReplyDelete
  3. I have added her shop to my favorites - I just love it!

    ReplyDelete
  4. I just added her blog to my blog roll, too.

    ReplyDelete
  5. I follow both of you on twitter - I am tashakaye09

    ReplyDelete
  6. you are on my blog roll already =)

    ReplyDelete
  7. Lovely, lovely pieces. I love the Toasted Coconut Cowl (and many other items).

    Clara

    cboza(at)vna1(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  8. I follow the rikrak studio on my Google Reader.

    Clara

    cboza(at)vna1(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  9. I love the cool water summer tote!

    mrunamistry at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  10. i hearted emptynest on etsy!
    username:MrunaM

    mrunamistry at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  11. i follow rickrack studio blog!

    mrunamistry at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  12. why only today? I would be ready to have Johnny Depp over for tea anytime!

    mrunamistry at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  13. follow the empty nest blog!

    mrunamistry at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  14. I just love this: http://www.etsy.com/listing/21223110/a-rose-is-a-rose-half-apron-as-featured
    it is so pretty and feminine.

    ReplyDelete
  15. i follow you both on twitter!
    @hndmdegiftguide

    ReplyDelete
  16. I would love to have tea with my Grandmother. She was the most amazing woman. I miss her so much everyday.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Great interview - I collect tea cups also. I inherited dozens of them from my husbands grandmother and have been addicted since (they are all so unique and beautiful).

    I love this item from the Empty Nest: http://www.etsy.com/listing/26544285/upcycled-spring-green-crafters-half

    I enjoy doing the craft show circuit and love sporting different sellers aprons. This one is just so pretty and unique.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I follow both of you on Twitter (@BoutiqueKarma)

    ReplyDelete
  19. 1. visit the lovely the Empty Nest shop
    ... tell us about your favourite goodie & why you love it!
    = 1 entry


    Blue Toile Cat 'n' Around Town Tote! emilyfette@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  20. I would love one of Janet's creations! Each one she does has a little story to it...love that!

    I would have tea with my mom and grandma! :) That sounds more fun than some famous person. LOL

    ~Kim

    ReplyDelete
  21. I'm going to tweet about it now. :)

    ~Kim

    ReplyDelete
  22. I love the Middleburg apron & The White Wedding one. I'm sure I'd be afraid to wear the white one, but it's beautiful! Oh, and the title makes me start singing that Billy Idol song!

    ~Kim

    Kim@everythingetsy.com

    ReplyDelete
  23. I subscribe to The Empty Nest. :)

    ~Kim

    ReplyDelete
  24. I follow both of you on twitter. :)

    I would love to win this, can't you tell?

    ~Kim

    ReplyDelete
  25. crafters apron! love it! http://www.etsy.com/listing/26544285/upcycled-spring-green-crafters-half

    ReplyDelete
  26. Such pretty aprons! I really love this one: http://www.etsy.com/listing/42339555/the-girl-back-home-couture-half-apron

    kyliept(at)gmail(dotcom

    ReplyDelete
  27. And if I could have a tea party today, it would be with the cast of 21 Jump Street!

    kyliept(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  28. I love the New York State of Mind Tote!

    hrfarley at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  29. Lovely giveaway! There are so many fantastic goodies in this shop.
    Here's one of my faves:
    http://www.etsy.com/listing/33061840/blossom-victorian-cowl-with-shipping
    I am very much into pale pink these days and I LOVE anything Victorian in style.
    Theresa (theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  30. I hearted The Empty Nest Shop (secret admirer)
    Theresa (theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  31. I am following both of you on twitter
    @faerymoongodess
    Theresa (theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  32. I would love to invite all of my blogging friends for an in-person tea party. Many of us connect on each other's blogs, but how fun would it be to all be in one place, face to face. :)
    Theresa (theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hi, My fav thingy there is Americana Bunny Handpainted Ladies Tee . The bunny is too cute :)

    Contact me dear :)
    liz_crowny@yahoo.com
    pintaliztiirene.blogspot.com

    thankies for helding this sweet giveaway and have a lovely day :)

    ReplyDelete
  34. What a great giveaway :) I would like to participate in it.
    Anw i am totally follower through Google Friend Connect.

    Contact me dear :)
    liz_crowny@yahoo.com
    pintaliztiirene.blogspot.com

    thankies for helding this sweet giveaway and have a perfect day :)

    ReplyDelete
  35. i would love to have a tea party with my hubby :)

    Contact me dear :)
    liz_crowny@yahoo.com
    pintaliztiirene.blogspot.com

    thankies for helding this sweet giveaway and have a lovely day :)

    ReplyDelete
  36. this is so cute: http://www.etsy.com/listing/49877818/cool-water-summer-tote-with-shipping
    engh.katie at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  37. shop hearted! (kting8)
    engh.katie at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  38. I Love the Down n Dirty Full Apron in Retro Pink n Green with Shipping Included I never am in the kitchen without an apron! Love the design!
    raquelk_87 (at) hotmail (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
  39. So many sweet items in the shop. My favorite is the New Zealand Suffolk Sheep Twins Cardigan. This is such an classy piece, the twin sheep is really adorable and I like that it is nicely finished with a pretty grosgrain ribbon, perfect for sweet little girls. Thanks for the lovely giveaway.

    yumihamano@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  40. I heart theemptynest Shop on etsy
    Username - raquelfriesen
    raquelk_87 (at) hotmail (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
  41. I subscribe via email, thank you.

    yumihamano@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  42. I follow you on twitter!
    Username – r_j_f
    raquelk_87 (at) hotmail (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
  43. I would love to have a tea party with all my sweet neices!

    ReplyDelete
  44. I just love the Down n Dirty Full Apron in Retro Pink n Green with Shipping Included. omydarlingblog(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  45. follow you both on twitter @omydarlingblog

    ReplyDelete
  46. I LOVE aprons!!
    http://www.etsy.com/listing/52028215/billy-idol-white-wedding-couture-apron
    this one is breath-taking!!
    earthdancedaph@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  47. I love her aprons, especially this one: http://www.etsy.com/listing/27173162/down-n-dirty-full-apron-in-retro-pink-n
    because of the contrasting colors (the pockets) and also because it's a full length apron.

    mscalitx(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  48. I just hearted the empty nest on etsy (Potof3Daisies).

    mscalitx(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  49. I follow the Empty nest blog!

    ReplyDelete
  50. I heart the emtpy nest etsy shop

    ReplyDelete
  51. I follow the empty nest and the rikrak studio on twitter. By the way, the link to the empty nest twitter page doesn't work, it gives you a blogger sign in page (it signed me out)? I manually added the right link http://twitter.com/theemptynest and it worked.

    ReplyDelete
  52. I follow the rikrak studio blog

    ReplyDelete
  53. I love the empty nest etsy shop! My favorite is the cat toile bag, but also adore the lilys cross stich apron and the pink daisy vintage napkins.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I would love a teaparty with my dear family members that moved to the other world, my dad for example, who has been gone for 33 years when I was just 12. Never really got to know him. That would be interesting!

    ReplyDelete
  55. I like
    Ruffled Makeup Bag with Shipping Included
    because it is very pretty

    sherrygo at hotmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  56. blogged http://joyfultearyzone.blogspot.com/2010/08/hostess-half-apron.html

    sherrygo at hotmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  57. My favorite item is the Blue Toile Cat 'n' Around Town Tote with Shipping Included

    luckysluna(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  58. I heart empty nest on etsy as luckysluna

    luckysluna(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  59. Great giveaway! I love to entertain so winning this would be great!

    I went to their shop and love the Billy Idol White Wedding Apron because I'm getting married and it's very fun! :)
    http://www.etsy.com/listing/52028215/billy-idol-white-wedding-couture-apron

    Seasidesmitten@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  60. I now heart the Empty Nest Shop (seasidesmitten).

    Seasidesmitten@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  61. I follow the the Empty Nest blog!

    Seasidesmitten@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  62. I follow the the rikrak studio blog!

    Seasidesmitten@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  63. I'd love to have a teaparty with my bridesmaids today because they are very special to me and it would be fun to dress up, drink tea, and desserts :)

    Seasidesmitten@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  64. Ny favorite item on your etsy site is : Barefoot in the Park Couture Half Apron with Shipping Included . I am learning how to sew (gah, sewing is hard!), and I can appreciate the time and effort that it takes.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Birds Egg Blue Upcycled Fingerless Gloves , my hands get SO cold on the computer, I would love something like this to keep them toasty warm, they look awsome to! Great colour!
    tracyschultz@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  66. I love the Australian Blue Daisy Cashmere Sweater Scarf — beautiful!

    tessa[dot]muggeridge[at]gmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  67. The A Rose is a Rose Half Apron is my favorite. I just love aprons and this one is so pretty!

    ReplyDelete
  68. I love the Little Sheila Yellow Petals Childs Sweater. I love the swingy silhouette and the yellow ties!

    urchiken at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  69. I adore the birds egg blue upcycled fingerless gloves. They look super soft for winter, but such a bright color to cheer up the dull winter months!

    demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  70. I totally love the Blue Toile Cat 'n' Around Town Tote! ^^ The fabrics used are just amazing! Love the overall design! c:

    vesipisaroita [at] gmail [dot] com

    ReplyDelete
  71. I subscribe to the rikrak studio blog via email! c:

    vesipisaroita [at] gmail [dot] com

    ReplyDelete
  72. I would love to have a teaparty with all of my high school friends! c:

    vesipisaroita [at] gmail [dot] com

    ReplyDelete
  73. What lovely goodies she has!
    I adore her "Pink Daisey Hand Painted Vintage Napkins!" I like
    that they are vintage and the green shade of the napkins is so soft.
    Of course, her hand painted daisies
    really make them special...
    Many thanks, Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  74. I "Hearted" The Empty Nest Shop.
    Again, many thanks...Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  75. Also, I follow and subscribe to The Empty Nest Blog...
    Thanks, Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  76. I follow The Empty Nest and The
    Rikrak Studio on Twitter...
    Merci, Cindi
    cmh512
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  77. I also follow your blog via
    Google Friend Connect~
    Cindi
    windycindy
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  78. "Tweet!"
    http://twitter.com/cmh512/status/20562266217.
    Merci, Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  79. Today, I would enjoy having a tea party with my best friends!
    Thanks, Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  80. i like the rose is a rose half apron, would be perfect for a summer afternoon party, so delicate and pretty looking
    nannypanpan at sbcglobal.net

    ReplyDelete
  81. I love the Middleburg apron

    So lovely!


    heatherkphoto@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  82. I love the A Passion For Pink-- Market Tote with Free Shipping

    Donna
    dwarrington1@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  83. I "heart" the Empty Nest on ETSY

    Donna
    dwarrington1@gmail.com
    ETSY username: 2Cats4Me

    ReplyDelete
  84. I follow the Empty Nest blog

    Donna
    dwarrington1@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  85. I follow and subscribe to your blog

    Donna
    dwarrington1@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  86. I love having teaparties with my granddaughter Carley...sometimes we have them outside as well....and pretend ones in her little kitchen.

    Donna
    dwarrington1@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  87. I like the Under the Sea Jumbo Beach Tote, my granddaughter would love this for her towels and swim suit when she goes to the pool!

    tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  88. this apron is so LOVELY!
    http://www.etsy.com/listing/26544285/upcycled-spring-green-crafters-half

    (i cant say that i'm a fan of teacups - i break them.)

    muffintopdesigns@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  89. and you have a heart from me!

    xoxo muffin

    ReplyDelete
  90. now i am following you! (in a non-stalker-y way, of course)

    ReplyDelete
  91. and i think that i'd love to have tea with the mad hatter. :)

    ReplyDelete
  92. Oh, I visited The Empty Nest shop and I really like the full apron. Retro style. And the much needed full cover upfor this messy cook!!

    I'd love to win the hostess apron (but I'd be afraid to wear it when I'm REALLY cookin')!

    And I love Janet's collection. I love tea cups, too.

    ReplyDelete
  93. i think the Kauai Inspired Summer Scarf is just gorgeous and it is a wonderful way to use those old napkins that are too pretty to use!

    sadiekate2001 at yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  94. i follow the the Empty Nest blog!

    sadiekate2001 at yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  95. i follow the rikrak studio blog!

    sadiekate2001 at yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  96. i think right now, i'd like to have a tea party with my two little sisters! they love tea parties!

    sadiekate2001 at yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  97. I love the "Banana Republic Rebirth Cardi with Shipping Included"...I'd like to wear thi cardigan!

    Contact: a.spigno@hotmail.it

    ReplyDelete
  98. I heart the shop on Etsy, ma Etsy name is: Aljna

    I forget to write my e-mail address in the previous comment:
    Aljna(at)hotmail.it

    ReplyDelete
  99. I follow your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  100. I visitted The Empty Nest Etsy shop and fell in love with so many of her things but my favorite was the Kauai Summer Scarf. That is so pretty.

    ReplyDelete
  101. I am a loyal follower of The Empty Nest.

    ReplyDelete
  102. I added The Empty Nest Etsy shop to my favorites on Etsy.

    ReplyDelete
  103. I have become a follower of the rikrak studio.

    ReplyDelete
  104. I would have tea with my Mom if I could have tea with anyone. She has been gone three years and we have loads to catch up on.

    ReplyDelete
  105. I like the A Rose is a Rose Half Apron. I love its color.

    annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  106. Hearted the Empty Nest Shop. username: SweepstakeLover

    annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  107. Email subscriber of you.

    annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  108. Tweeted: https://twitter.com/sweepstakelover/status/21001009939

    annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  109. Blogged: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2010/08/giveaway-with-empty-nest.html

    annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  110. I love the Barefoot in the Park half apron. It's so sweet and pretty. I love how everything in her shop is so feminine!

    abigail.lee {At} gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  111. My fav is the Lilys Cross Stitch Club Couture half apron (kmomcrafter@yahoo.com)

    ReplyDelete

thanks so much for your comments, nicies!
it's a joy to read what everyone writes here.
thank you!