tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57088226871745764792024-02-07T05:45:10.900-05:00The Elle's Beads BlogHandmade + Eco-Friendly + On a BudgetUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-55877313374841337702011-04-06T18:34:00.001-04:002011-04-06T18:37:00.221-04:00EB Friday Hotlist: All Good Things...(I know it's not really Friday, but I sure wish it was!)<br />
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As you've seen, I have not been updating my blog lately. If you've stopped by my shops, you also know that I'm not listing new items and I'm letting all of the current items expire. I have made the difficult decision to shut down Elle's Beads. I won't be updating the blog again any time soon, if ever, for the same reasons.<br />
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If I could give a crafter some advice about starting a business online, it would be to determine upfront how much time you wish to invest in building your business and how you will measure success. Back in 2009 when I started Elle's Beads, I thought I wanted to run my jewelry business as a full job. It didn't take long for me to realize that the "Quit Your Day Job" lifestyle wasn't actually what I wanted. Instead, I decided it would be a lot more fun to make whatever I wanted to make on my own time without the pressure of needing to bring in extra income. That worked really well for me. Through blogs, Twitter, forums, and teams I met tons of interesting people from all over. I am grateful to have had these experiences.<br />
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However, as I've said in previous posts, part of the calculations you should do when you're making business decisions is a cost/benefit ratio. You have to be mature enough to define what success means for you and then evaluate whether or not what you're putting out is worth what you're getting in return. In other words, you have to decide at what point you need to step back from the business or shut it down altogether.<br />
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For me, the other things I have going on in my life are more important to me than running and promoting Elle's Beads. I work full-time at a day job, and starting tomorrow I'll be working an additional part-time job in the evenings and on weekends. I'm doing all this so that I can be in a better financial position when I start law school in the fall. The school I'll be attending is 4 hours away, so in between work hours, I'll be spending a lot of time packing, cleaning, and getting ready to move. (Not to mention that I'll be looking for a place to live up there as well.) Additionally, since first-year, full-time law students are strongly encouraged not to work even part-time during the first year, I'm relatively certain I won't have time to make things, photograph them, edit the photos, and list them online. I am completely sure I won't have time on top of that to do any promoting of my shop whatsoever. Since my future career opportunities are more important to me than my beads, my cost/benefit analysis is telling me to quit while I'm ahead.<br />
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I want to thank each and every person who has posted comments here, bought jewelry from me, or has given me support in other ways. While it's possible that I'll come back next summer or in a few years down the road, returning isn't in the cards right now. My Etsy account will remain open, even after the last item has expired, and I paid out the nose for a lifetime Zibbet account, so I'll have a presence over there as well. Be sure to keep in touch!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-48910610757287021662011-04-01T00:20:00.000-04:002011-04-01T00:20:17.108-04:00Weekly Treasures: March 2011Sorry for the drive-by posting, but here are a few treasuries in which I was featured this past month:<br />
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Please stay tuned for the full story about where I've been, where I'm going, and what the future is for Elle's Beads!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-61154072098879836752011-03-17T05:54:00.000-04:002011-03-17T05:54:06.840-04:00Weekly BEST: All About Cats<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/allaboutcats"><img height="52" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.5504068.jpg" width="400" /></a><span id="goog_1561299699"></span><span id="goog_1561299700"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This week, I have the pleasure of featuring All About Cats, a handmade shop from Vermont. The owner, Linda, inherited her creative side from her mother. You can read about their relationship <a href="http://allaboutcatsetsy.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html">here on Linda's blog</a>. Linda's favorite crafts are sewing and painting, and she puts her talents to good use in creating fun and imaginative toys for cats (and trinkets for their owners). Her use of bright, bold colors and animal patterns make her items truly "pop." Here are a few of my favorites from the All About Cats Etsy shop:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70184639/dora-the-duckling-organic-catnip-bell"><img alt="Dora The Duckling Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy" height="320" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.227755257.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70184639/dora-the-duckling-organic-catnip-bell">Dora The Duckling Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy $6.00</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69816488/two-balls-organic-catnip-bell-cat-toys"><img alt="Two Balls Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toys" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.226216667.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69816488/two-balls-organic-catnip-bell-cat-toys">Two Balls Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toys $6.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62882126/four-whimsical-fabric-cat-magnets"><img alt="Four Whimsical Fabric Cat Magnets" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.196459075.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62882126/four-whimsical-fabric-cat-magnets">Four Whimsical Fabric Cat Magnets $8.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66993448/four-reversable-cat-print-fabric"><img alt="Four Reversable Cat Print Fabric Coasters" height="320" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.212612833.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66993448/four-reversable-cat-print-fabric">Four Reversable Cat Print Fabric Coasters $8.00</a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Linda's toys can be made without catnip if you prefer, so feel free to contact her if you would like a special order made. Find All About Cats at these locations around the web:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AllAboutCats">http://www.etsy.com/shop/AllAboutCats</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Shop 2: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ThisAndThatInVermont">http://www.etsy.com/shop/ThisAndThatInVermont</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Blog: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://allaboutcatsetsy.blogspot.com/">http://allaboutcatsetsy.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Facebook: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/All-About-Cats/178751288826475?v=wall">http://www.facebook.com/pages/All-About-Cats/178751288826475?v=wall</a></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Which item from All About Cats would you give to the cat lover in your life? Be sure to let us know in the comments!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Until next time,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Elle</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-42068612729841499782011-03-09T13:59:00.001-05:002011-03-09T14:02:50.641-05:00Weekly BEST: Sandyvern<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sandyvern"><img height="52" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.7492357.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This week I'm featuring Sandy's Handmade Soaps & Things (sandyvern on Etsy), a unique shop from Stamford, CT. Sandy describes herself as a "self-taught crafter" and has developed skills in soap making, knitting, and jewelry making. While I'm only featuring her soaps here, be sure to check out the link section at the bottom of the post to find some of her knitting and jewelry (the monsters are too cute to miss!).<br />
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Sandy has been making soaps for three years through both the cold and "melt and pour" processes. Her ingredients include oils, butters, lye, goat milk, oatmeal, and honey. Interestingly, a batch of soap can take up to six weeks to perfect. Be sure to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/sandyvern">check out her Etsy profile here</a> for more information about her creative process.<br />
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Here are a few of the scrumptious soaps for sale at Sandy's Handmade Soaps & Things:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/48214994/toasted-coconut-bar"><img alt="Toasted Coconut Bar" height="239" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.158147587.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/48214994/toasted-coconut-bar">Toasted Coconut Bar $5.95</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/46691775/soap-popsicles"><img alt="Soap Popsicles" height="240" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.143646221.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/46691775/soap-popsicles">Soap Popsicles $4.95</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50855570/brown-sugar-scrub-soap"><img alt="Brown Sugar Scrub Soap" height="240" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.156171795.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50855570/brown-sugar-scrub-soap">Brown Sugar Scrub Soap $4.95</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62610248/blueberry-crunch-soap"><img alt="Blueberry Crunch Soap" height="320" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.195527793.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62610248/blueberry-crunch-soap">Blueberry Crunch Soap $5.95</a></div><br />
Sandy has a variety of other offerings that I did not have room to share with you here, so be sure to check out both Sandy's Handmade Soaps & More and her other shops. Find Sandyvern at these places around the web:<br />
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Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sandyvern">http://www.etsy.com/shop/sandyvern</a><br />
Shop 2: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/monsterlovemadness">http://www.etsy.com/shop/monsterlovemadness</a><br />
Shop 3: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/simplysandysthings">http://www.etsy.com/shop/simplysandysthings</a><br />
Blog: <a href="http://theadventuresofsandyvern.blogspot.com/">http://theadventuresofsandyvern.blogspot.com</a><br />
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Don't forget to come back here and let us know in the comments which item(s) you like best!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Elle<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-16348753875248780042011-03-04T08:00:00.000-05:002011-03-04T08:00:18.124-05:00EB Friday Hotlist: Five Tips for Avoiding or Reducing the Stress of Running an Indie Small BusinessWhen I sat down to write this post yesterday my first thought was: Wow, what a long and stressful week! I don't know about you, but TGIF has taken on a whole new meaning for me this week! Ironically, that thought gave me the inspiration for today's Hotlist post:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/programwitch/1483037699/" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Stress Reduction Kit by programwitch, on Flickr"><img alt="Stress Reduction Kit" height="200" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1367/1483037699_21becff487.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/programwitch/1483037699/">Stress Reduction Kit </a>by<br />
Programwitch, Used Under<br />
Creative Commons License</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Whether you are making 50 sales a year or 50 sales a week, you know the meaning of the word "stress." You probably also know that reducing this stress as much as possible helps you not only have a better quality of life, but also helps you run a better business and create a better buying experience for your customers. This time of year can be difficult for people, albeit in a different way than in the weeks leading up to Christmas. There is a lot of anticipation and frenzied preparation in December, only to be followed by a (typically) slower January and potential disappointment over the way things went during the holiday buying season. Whether you've got the pre-spring blues or you're struggling to keep up with orders, I think it's time for a brief refresher course in stress reduction. Here are five basic tips to help you deal:<br />
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<a href="http://www.zibbet.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz92bUwZB1LrqZLN0mCO5_kRV7EC5YT10NSXQTDLQlZdhRmh-oOIaHM5PIO1q4rbkStktpQhWMJCaScKhisIhazMB04J-w7danYujVYPacV95bVLNGEsglHIHVNxPdcDWybqPhw7KnrfIJ/s1600/zibbet+community.jpg" /></a><b>* <u>Engage with others.</u></b> Maybe you're on a site like <a href="http://www.zibbet.com/">Zibbet</a>, which makes it easy for you to connect with other people through groups and forums. These people are trying to do the same thing as you - run a profitable online business. Not only can enjoying the fun conversations about any and everything be a relaxing experience in itself, but engaging with other business owners will allow you to use them as a resource in the future. When you don't know how to do something (i.e. ship packages to customers in Taiwan, create a coupon code, resize photos), it's great to be able to consult other indie business owners and get constructive feedback instead of stumbling along in the dark all by yourself. Oh and if you're not on a marketplace website, there is still no excuse for not engaging. Join a site like <a href="http://creatingthehive.com/">Creating the Hive</a> and get involved in the conversation! <br />
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<b>* <u>Know your season</u></b><u>.</u> People often feel that January and February are the worst months for their handmade businesses. The Christmas/holiday rush is over and people are out of cash to spend on non-necessities. This can make a seller feel like their shop isn't up to par, when really there are other factors in play. Don't beat yourself up because your shop views dipped one day out of 30 or freak out on the Etsy forums over a short-term dip in your Google Analytics charts. Also remember, different seasons are different for different sellers. A business selling thick wool scarves and knitted beanies is not likely to have a rush on orders in July, and a custom swimsuit shop may not have a Christmas rush at all. Keep things in perspective and know that ups and downs in sales are natural for a business.<br />
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<b>* <u>Stay organized.</u></b> I've always been an advocate of <a href="http://ellesbeads.blogspot.com/2010/04/eb-friday-hotlist-how-to-stay-sane_09.html">keeping a schedule</a> but that's not the only way you should try to be organized. Keeping your accounting up to date, your crafting room in some semblance of order, and your shipping supplies in one place and ready to be used when orders come in can help keep you from feeling so overwhelmed. Check out the second article in the suggested reading list for more information about this strategy.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drtonygeorge/541930581/" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="YOGA in nature's way by Tony George, on Flickr"><img alt="YOGA in nature's way" height="200" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1205/541930581_076045a556.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drtonygeorge/541930581/">Yoga In Nature's Way</a><br />
by Tony George, Used Under <br />
Creative Commons License</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>* <u>Take a breather</u></b><u>.</u> Seriously, it's okay! There is no reason to let the stress of running a handmade business overrun your life. Are orders (or the lack thereof) just driving you nuts? Go take a walk, eat a snack, do some yoga - then come back recharged and ready to get back on the grind. It's important to make sure you're taking time for yourself and your friends/family on a regular basis. You wouldn't work 12 hours a day, 365 days a year at a regular day job, right? So why do you think you have to just because you're running a handmade business? You do have to put in a lot of time, but one of the best thing about having a your business online is that you can put it on hiatus whenever you want. Schedule yourself some time and take a vacation (or "staycation" if you're broke). Whether you take a break for a day or a year, the market for goods and services will still be there when you are ready to tackle your next project.<br />
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<b>* <u>Evaluate yourself</u></b><u>.</u> Whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game for a while, the handmade business world is not for the faint of heart. Just see the first blog on the suggested reading list for a little perspective. At many day jobs, if not most, supervisors conduct yearly or quarterly evaluations of their subordinates. These evaluations can determine whether or not that employee keeps their job. Since you don't have another boss to do it for you, you should make self-evaluation a regular part of your planning. Taking stock at regular intervals of what's working for you and what isn't will make decisions like changing product lines or closing up shop all together much easier to determine.<br />
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As you can see, these tips for stress reduction aren't new - I've been supporting these ideas for ages and they certainly weren't my own original ideas! Sometimes though, it can be beneficial to be reminded of the basics! Be sure to check out the links below for great insights on this subject.<br />
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<b>Suggested Reading List:</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.fangirltastic.com/content/sisters-doing-it-themselves-%E2%80%93-blunt-business-advice-handmade-market-1">Blunt Business Advice for the Handmade Market:</a> If you're thinking about taking the full-time handmade business plunge (known on Etsy as "Quitting Your Day Job"), this is a must-read article. MinervaLi doesn't hold back in this blog post and can help you understand exactly what you're getting into.<br />
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<a href="http://papernstitchblog.com/2010/07/14/improve-your-productivity-and-lower-your-stress/">Improve Your Productivity and Lower Your Stress:</a> In addition to being a fabulous example of how to do a guest post, this article by Celeste gives you tried and true tips for getting more done in less time with minimal fuss.<br />
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<a href="http://www.americasbestcompanies.com/blog/stress-level-at-work.aspx">15 Ways to Reduce Your Stress Level at Work:</a> This article was written to help B&M business owners and employees have a less-stressful work environment. Let's face it though - many of these suggestions can be clearly and easily applied to your online business as well.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-3561968292021808372011-03-03T12:00:00.000-05:002011-03-03T12:00:05.924-05:00Weekly Treasures: Amber Sunsets In Your LifeContinuing this week's "sunshine" theme, I'm pleased to share with you a treasury by the talented <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/freedom32">Freedom32</a> on Etsy: <br />
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My beaded peace sign bookmark made it into this beautiful color-themed treasury:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/45304239/peace-sign-beaded-gold-bookmark" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Peace Sign Beaded Gold Bookmark" height="196" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.139063569.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/45304239/peace-sign-beaded-gold-bookmark">Beaded Gold Bookmark $15.00 </a></div><br />
Be sure to check out Freedom32's <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/freedom32?section_id=7745195#">original paintings</a> and other items, as well as the shops featured in her treasury. Feel free to leave a comment both here and on the treasury to let us know what you think!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-21342092974939064152011-03-01T12:00:00.002-05:002011-03-01T12:00:09.662-05:00Weekly BEST: You Are My Sunshine<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/youaremysunshine"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.6913741.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Speaking of sunshine, this week I have the privilege of featuring a shop that always brightens my day! You Are My Sunshine is run by Nina, a jewelry artisan and vintage treasure seeker from the "Sunshine State" (aka Florida). The name of her shop has a touching origin, which you can read about on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/youaremysunshine#">her profile</a>. While Nina does have a <a href="http://mysunshinevintage.etsy.com/">separate vintage shop</a>, You Are My Sunshine has a sophisticated vintage feel of it's own. Natural themes and bright, bold colors abound in her many accessories and statement pieces. Here are a few pieces I'd love to own:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/43376564/recycled-vintage-bobby-pin-set-purple"><img alt="Recycled Vintage Bobby Pin Set Purple Berries" height="227" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.132557112.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/43376564/recycled-vintage-bobby-pin-set-purple">Recycled Vintage Bobby Pin Set $10.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/43438306/classic-oval-rescued-vintage-earring"><img alt="Classic Oval Rescued Vintage Earring Ring" height="227" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.132768842.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/43438306/classic-oval-rescued-vintage-earring">Classic Oval Rescued Vintage Earring Ring $7.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/31178796/necklace-like-a-monet-painting-in-blue"><img alt="Necklace, Like A Monet Painting in Blue and Yellow" height="228" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.91284890.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/31178796/necklace-like-a-monet-painting-in-blue">Necklace, Like a Monet Painting $50.00</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/30897076/woodland-fabric-flower-bracelet-corsage"><img alt="Woodland Fabric Flower Bracelet Corsage" height="228" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.90346586.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/30897076/woodland-fabric-flower-bracelet-corsage">Woodland Fabric Flower Bracelet $25.00</a></div><br />
Nina has the entrepreneurial spirit <a href="http://www.ninainflorida.com/p/about-me.html">in her blood</a> and her shops are evidence of both her skill as an artist and as a business owner. I encourage you to sit back and enjoy flipping through the many pages of her items, as there's no telling what treasure might grab you! Find Nina and You Are My Sunshine at these places around the web:<br />
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Shop 1: <a href="http://youaremysunshine.etsy.com/">youaremysunshine.etsy.com</a><br />
Shop 2: <a href="http://mysunshinevintage.etsy.com/">mysunshinevintage.etsy.com</a><br />
Blog: <a href="http://ninas-day.blogspot.com/">ninas-day.blogspot.com</a><br />
Flickr: <a href="http://youaremysunshine-etsy.flickr.com/">youaremysunshine-etsy.flickr.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://youaremysunshine.facebook.com/">youaremysunshine.facebook.com</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/mysunshine4etsy">twitter.com/mysunshine4etsy</a><br />
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So what's your favorite thing from or about You Are My Sunshine? Let us know in the comments!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Elle<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-86970112009434901292011-02-28T12:00:00.001-05:002011-02-28T12:00:00.297-05:00Weekly Treasures: Orange You Wanting a Bit of Sunshine?I hope the weather where you are is as gorgeous and warm as it is here. I'm so glad that <i>all</i> of February wasn't a snowy/rainy drag! <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/danaemau" style="color: #0192b5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Danaemau</a></span></span></span> brought some of that sunshine to Etsy last week with a beautiful orange treasury:<br />
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This fabulous buyer was kind enough to include one of my own items in her gallery - my deep orange ladybug earrings:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47111723/deep-orange-wood-and-crystal-ladybug"><img alt="Deep Orange Wood and Crystal Ladybug Earrings" height="200" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.160740785.jpg" width="166" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47111723/deep-orange-wood-and-crystal-ladybug">Wood and Crystal Earrings $12.00</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> For more of Danaemau's treasury lists, be sure to visit her profile (linked above). Feel free to leave a comment here or on the treasury to let us know what you think of the collection!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Elle</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-62194093614192190662011-02-22T19:18:00.000-05:002011-02-22T19:18:11.957-05:00Weekly BEST: Alexander's Designs<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/alexandersdesigns"><img height="52" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.6236493.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This week I'm introducing you to not one, but <i>two </i>talented artisans from Missouri. Alexander's Designs is a joint venture run by a husband and wife team, Jenny and Skip. Both have been making jewelry for several years and they each have developed rather sophisticated talents, including fused glass techniques and metalsmithing. The end result is a collection of unique, handcrafted wearable art pieces blending glass, semi-precious stones, crystals, and precious metals. Here are a few of my favorites from this shop:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49666684/sale-chessboard-sterling-silver-ring"><img alt="SALE Chessboard Sterling Silver Ring" height="240" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.152195304.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49666684/sale-chessboard-sterling-silver-ring">Chessboard Sterling Silver Ring $58.50</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67058817/sale-dichroic-ugly-glass-pendant-p7-417"><img alt="SALE Dichroic Ugly Glass Pendant (P7-417-10-D)" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.212884354.jpg" width="306" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67058817/sale-dichroic-ugly-glass-pendant-p7-417">Dichroic Ugly Glass Pendant $11.25 </a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37715455/sale-ugly-glass-fused-glass-striped"><img alt="SALE Ugly Glass Fused Glass Striped Pendant" height="260" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.206143857.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37715455/sale-ugly-glass-fused-glass-striped">Fused Glass Striped Pendant $10.80</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37520182/sale-blue-bubbles-fused-glass-pendant"><img alt="SALE Blue Bubbles Fused Glass Pendant" height="269" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.166144546.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37520182/sale-blue-bubbles-fused-glass-pendant">Blue Bubbles Fused Glass Pendant $13.50</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Although it should be obvious that the prices I post in my blog features are subject to change, I do want to point out that Alexander's Designs is having a sale right now. These discounts are only good until 2/25/11, so be sure to check out the shop now to get what you want!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Find Alexander's Designs at these places around the web:</div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/alexandersdesigns">http://www.etsy.com/shop/alexandersdesigns</a><br />
Shop 2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">: </span></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ClassicallySimple">http://www.etsy.com/shop/ClassicallySimple</a> --> Fabulous items on sale through tomorrow 2/23!<br />
Shop 3: <a href="http://beaderydestash.etsy.com/">http://beaderydestash.etsy.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://alexandersdesigns.blogspot.com/">http://alexandersdesigns.blogspot.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alexanders-Designs/117051398358147">http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alexanders-Designs/117051398358147</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After you're done shopping, be sure to come back and tell us which items are your favorites and/or which ones you purchased!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Elle<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-73139502926407545572011-02-18T08:00:00.002-05:002011-02-18T08:00:13.165-05:00EB Friday Hotlist: Postling<a href="http://www.postling.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TAi5gZUw2yk/TVGfy2Fl4TI/AAAAAAAABvQ/IRBkx8HWRN8/s1600/postling.jpg" /></a>I get asked frequently how I manage to update my various social media accounts with fresh content on a regular basis. While life does get in the way sometimes, I am able to minimize disruptions by scheduling things in advance and working hard to get as much done as possible when I do find a few free moments. One of the tools that helps me do this more efficiently is <a href="http://www.postling.com/">Postling</a>.<br />
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Postling is a scheduling website that lets you post things to your various social media sites from their portal. You can add a variety of social media accounts to your "brand," including Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, LinkedIn and Blogger. Once you've added the social media account, you can use Postling to update it, either by an immediate post or a scheduled one. You're also able to check your "stream" or the feed of posts that come from those you follow on a particular network.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbpA0TMHn5Sqi8CIJg5VVSPnVgF68xJhIgfjb380sIG7P3JJQ-0PfpXE_Y4aC-lyo5AQK3d0UL6XBDhmvEYGjxfrbkGFXIcksJQLdMuQGjEJhfX7P1Q3ZIzOjEqWY885HgdxUqI13yeIaO/s1600/postling+published+posts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbpA0TMHn5Sqi8CIJg5VVSPnVgF68xJhIgfjb380sIG7P3JJQ-0PfpXE_Y4aC-lyo5AQK3d0UL6XBDhmvEYGjxfrbkGFXIcksJQLdMuQGjEJhfX7P1Q3ZIzOjEqWY885HgdxUqI13yeIaO/s320/postling+published+posts.jpg" width="320" /></a>I prefer to update my Facebook and Flickr accounts manually, and I use TwitterFeed and Hootsuite to schedule my Twitter posts. I signed up for Postling primarily to deal with a problem I've encountered with Tumblr. <a href="http://ellesbeads.blogspot.com/2010/07/eb-friday-hotlist-using-tumblr-as.html">Tumblr can be a great marketing tool</a> and I'm currently using my micro-photo blog there to promote my brand name, the indie community, and Zibbet. However, I have had a problem with Tumblr's internal scheduling feature. I would set a few photos to be posted over the course of the coming week and check in a few days to find that they hadn't posted. Ack!<br />
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Postling eliminates my need for concern. I simply create posts in much the same way I would in Tumblr. I add tags and set the date and time I want my posts to appear. I can confirm that the posts are set up the way I want them to be by checking the "Drafts and Scheduled" section (pictured below). I typically set up about two weeks worth of posts at once, and it takes me about 30 minutes or so from start to finish (depending on how long it takes me to find the pictures I want). I then set a Google Calendar alert to remind me when my posts are running out so that I can redo the process when necessary.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix5SSq1Bdz5esVa55dbLkkeVYxrg2M364iH9tNomSrLTf9DpeSft4b-0hhuzeZHt7rylhTtpRXBtcQu8-m35G-ff9uQv2JZOMRtRC1UC3GMvcwODa0AIy8oyxL5aUeiAVYZju4Yr19X7oe/s1600/postling+drafts+and+scheduled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix5SSq1Bdz5esVa55dbLkkeVYxrg2M364iH9tNomSrLTf9DpeSft4b-0hhuzeZHt7rylhTtpRXBtcQu8-m35G-ff9uQv2JZOMRtRC1UC3GMvcwODa0AIy8oyxL5aUeiAVYZju4Yr19X7oe/s400/postling+drafts+and+scheduled.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
My understanding is that Postling has a variety of other features for paid members. As I only utilize their free service, I can't recommend those features. I will say that Postling has helped me keep my Tumblr consistently updated and for that reason I recommend checking out their free service if you're looking for a post scheduling service.<br />
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Have you used Postling? What are your thoughts on it? Have any other schedulers you use? Let us know which ones so we can check those out too!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-37536670261232922112011-02-15T08:00:00.060-05:002011-02-15T08:00:15.974-05:00Weekly BEST: Too Much of a Good Thing<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.6990115.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">Long time readers of the blog may remember this shop from <a href="http://ellesbeads.blogspot.com/2010/09/weekly-best-too-much-of-good-thing.html">an earlier feature in September 2010</a>. Too Much of a Good Thing has really grown since then and I think you'll fall in love with the new items! For those of you who don't know, Leyla (the artist) has a variety of crafty talents ranging from wearable art to paper crafts to amigurumi. When I first introduced her I wanted to show off her beautiful cards, but this time I'd like to showcase some of her unique and colorful accessories for you:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64271174/red-zipper-flower-brooch-by-too-much-of"><img alt="Red Zipper Flower Brooch by Too Much of a Good Thing on Etsy" height="318" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.201723885.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64271174/red-zipper-flower-brooch-by-too-much-of">Red Zipper Flower Brooch $9.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64274752/tan-neutral-zipper-flower-statement"><img alt="Tan Neutral Zipper Flower Statement Headband by Too Much of a Good Thing on Etsy" height="319" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.201735620.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64274752/tan-neutral-zipper-flower-statement">Tan Neutral Zipper Flower Headband $12.50</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66245284/chocolate-brown-slouchy-beanie-hat-by"><img alt="Chocolate Brown Slouchy Beanie Hat by Too Much of a Good Thing on Etsy" height="319" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.209543968.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66245284/chocolate-brown-slouchy-beanie-hat-by">Chocolate Brown Slouchy Beanie Hat $18.50</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65165760/sage-green-ear-flap-beanie-by-too-much"><img alt="Sage Green Ear Flap Beanie by Too Much of a Good Thing on Etsy" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.205223207.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65165760/sage-green-ear-flap-beanie-by-too-much">Sage Green Ear Flap Beanie $19.50</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">For more crocheted goodies, zipper flowers (how cool are those!?), and many other handmade items, make sure to mosey on over to Leyla's Etsy shop and browse around! Find Too Much of a Good Thing at these places around the web:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop: <a href="http://toomuchofagoodthing.etsy.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">TooMuchOfAGoodThing.etsy.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://leylafolsom.blogspot.com/">leylafolsom.blogspot.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Also if you're local to Salem, Oregon or just happen to be out that way, <a href="http://leylafolsom.blogspot.com/p/find-me.html">check out this link</a> to find out where you can purchase Leyla's work in local shops.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">What is your favorite item from Too Much of a Good Thing? Let me know in the comments!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Elle</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-91133314214399792962011-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:002011-02-14T08:00:42.120-05:00Weekly Treasures: Happy Valentine's DayHappy Valentine's Day from Elle's Beads! Although I do not have any personal attachment to this holiday, I know there are many who enjoy it and I wish those people a romantic and meaningful celebration. And....umm....Happy Monday to the rest of you! <br />
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(Oh, lighten up - I hate Mondays too!). <br />
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Here's a look at the Valentine's Day treasuries I've posted over the last month in case you missed them:<br />
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I hope you'll have fun browsing though the shops. Go easy on the wine and have a great night! :)<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-39990384558438830182011-02-13T08:00:00.000-05:002011-02-13T08:00:01.534-05:00Weekly Treasures: Be My {Foodie} ValentineThis is the last of the 4-part treasury series celebrating the creative ways Etsians express love. This week's theme is food love and is designed with the foodie (food and/or wine aficionado) in mind:<br />
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I hope you enjoy browsing through these artists' shops! Please feel free to comment here or on the treasury and let me know what you think!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-22885560566657825662011-02-11T08:00:00.000-05:002011-02-11T08:00:23.493-05:00EB Friday Hotlist: Why People Should Buy From You and Not a Big Box StoreThis week I want to talk about the indie movement in general. Regardless of whether or not you sell online or at craft fairs or both, regardless of whether this is a hobby for you or a business or both, you are selling your items so that people will buy them from you. Your motivation may be different from the next person, but the basic goal is still the same - sales.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vasta/3927746470/" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Stories. by vasta, on Flickr"><img alt="Stories." height="200" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2614/3927746470_a219f0305c.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stories by vasta on Flickr<br />
Used under Creative Commons<br />
license</td></tr>
</tbody></table>How do you get sales? At the most basic level, getting sales requires 1) having a product and 2) putting it out for sale. To make a sale, you also have to set a price for the product and pricing your work can be a somewhat contentious issue among indie sellers. Some businesspeople lament the hobbyists who can charge less for their work because profit is not their motivation. Some hobbyists lament that their work is seen by some as inferior because it is frequently (and incorrectly) assumed that price is directly correlated with quality. No matter where your items fall on the pricing continuum, and no matter what criticism you receive (i.e. your prices are cheap so you must have Walmart quality items or why buy from you when I can get the same thing 75% off at Walmart) there is still a huge difference between your crafts and the similar items people buy at Walmart. <br />
<br />
So why <i>should </i>someone buy a (insert name of craft here) from you as opposed to Walmart? I can get cheap, trendy jewelry there for a fraction of the price of some I see on Etsy. I can buy crocheted cozies, dyed scarves, and trendy shoes all in the same place without paying shipping or walking around a dusty farmer's market in the heat/cold/rain. What makes the handmade or vintage items you sell better than the mass-produced beauties in stores like Walmart?<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/normalityrelief/3224721382/" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Stories by normalityrelief, on Flickr"><img alt="Stories" height="133" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3411/3224721382_bb6616733a.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stories by normalityrelief on Flickr<br />
Used under Creative Commons license</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Only you can answer that question specifically. Maybe you've spent weeks combing over thrift store shelves and antique malls to find those perfect dresses and brooches and silk ties for your vintage shop. Maybe you fire up the kiln every other night to finish up the pottery you take to the local market each week. Perhaps the beads you use in your jewelry came from your grandmother, who is the one who taught you how to bead 40 years ago. Everyone's special selling point will be different, but the point is that every indie shop, handmade or vintage, has a story behind it. Telling this story in a compelling way is what will draw people to your shop instead of the big box retailers.<br />
<br />
This week's suggested reading list will give you some ideas on how to figure out what your story is and how to turn that story into selling points to present to potential buyers.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/APRjQ-G6uZ8?fs=1" width="425"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>Suggested Reading:</b><br />
<br />
Buy Handmade: <a href="http://www.buyhandmade.org/why-buy-handmade">Why Buy Handmade?</a> - Article with some of the reasons why people are choosing to buy handmade. Check out the list of links for ideas that may help you with developing your story and deciding why your indie shop is unique.<br />
<br />
Etsy Blog: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/storque/seller-handbook/how-to-sell-your-story-with-johnny-b-truant-10899/">How to Sell Your Story with Johnny B. Truant</a> - Article with great ideas on how to incorporate your story into your item listings to get people more interested in buying your items.<br />
<br />
Etsy Community: <a href="http://community.etsy.com/selling/etsy-shop-makeover-challenge-storytelling">Etsy Shop Makeover Challenge: Storytelling</a> - Step-by-step article that helps you define your story, develop it, and turn it into a compelling artisan/shop profile, from the talented storyteller whose YouTube video I've embedded above.<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
Elle<br />
<br />
P.S. My six word story is: Strength is the will to overcome. What's yours? Leave it in the comments after checking out Suggested Reading article #3.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-65558291482841619072011-02-10T08:00:00.002-05:002011-02-10T08:00:28.747-05:00New Items from Elle's BeadsAs you may remember, I'm a big fan of Animoto slideshows for showing off one's work and creating YouTube videos. Here's the newest slideshow I made featuring some new items I'm working on listing on Etsy:<br />
<br />
<object height="193" width="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/p1XCszflUbE?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/p1XCszflUbE?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="250" height="165"></embed></object><br />
<br />
As you can see, I'm trying to add a lot of bright, colorful items, especially in yellow - one of the colors that isn't represented often in my shop. What new items, colors, or styles are you working with this winter? Let us know in the comments!<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-76231272044115821992011-02-08T08:00:00.001-05:002011-02-08T08:00:03.061-05:00Weekly BEST: MysticWynd<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysticwynd"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.6656664.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">"An awareness of peace and love rose anew, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">As the spirit found truth and the Mystic Wynd blew..." </span></span></div><br />
This week I have the pleasure of introducing you to Mystic Wynd, the shop owned and operated by BESTeam leader Karen. Karen hails from Scottsdale, Arizona and started expressing her creativity at a young age while living with her family in Chicago. Mystic Wynd is primarily a jewelry shop, though you will find little trinkets and handmade accessories sprinkled throughout the various sections. Although she features a very diverse range of styles, her use of categories makes it easy to find what you want. There really is something for everyone here, the reasons for which you can find in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/mysticwynd">Karen's Etsy profile</a>. As such, I've tried to pick items from different style categories to share with you:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49643387/peridot-swarvoski-crystal-chandelier"><img alt="Peridot Swarvoski Crystal Chandelier Drop Earrings" height="320" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.152113620.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49643387/peridot-swarvoski-crystal-chandelier">Peridot Swarvoski Crystal Chandelier Drop Earrings $14.50</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/30261723/rose-necklace-in-champagne-blush-w-pearl"><img alt="Rose Necklace in Champagne Blush w Pearl and Crystal" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.137377999.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/30261723/rose-necklace-in-champagne-blush-w-pearl">Rose Necklace in Champagne Blush $31.95</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/19517848/green-apple-turquoise-w-pearl-necklace"><img alt="Green Apple Turquoise w Pearl Necklace" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.52195046.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/19517848/green-apple-turquoise-w-pearl-necklace">Green Apple Turquoise with Pearl Necklace $44.95</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/19367581/magenta-pink-go-go-heart-charm-necklace"><img alt="Magenta Pink Go-Go Heart Charm Necklace - Love N Luck" height="320" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.51696036.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/19367581/magenta-pink-go-go-heart-charm-necklace">Magenta Pink Heart Charm Necklace $12.95</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">You can find Mystic Wynd at these places around the web:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysticwynd">http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysticwynd</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop 2: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MWElegance">http://www.etsy.com/shop/MWElegance</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop 3: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheCraftersCabinet">http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheCraftersCabinet</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Blog: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://mysticwynd.blogspot.com/">http://mysticwynd.blogspot.com</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Twitter: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://twitter.com/mysticwynd">http://twitter.com/mysticwynd</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Facebook: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/mysticwynd">http://www.facebook.com/mysticwynd</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Be sure to check out the shop and come back here after browsing to let us know which jewelry style is your favorite!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Elle</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-19133715234828796262011-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:002011-02-07T08:00:13.039-05:00Weekly Treasures: Helloooo YelloooowwMy yellow beaded chunky ring is making waves again in a lovely treasury featuring members of the Queer Etsy Street Team. Check out the entire treasury below or <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d4df7598f606d91e61ef2a8/helloooo-yellooooww">click here</a>:<br />
<br />
<script src="http://www.craftcult.com/js/trwi.js?s=2&l=4d4df7598f606d91e61ef2a8&r=6031&t=s&m=1&u=8081560&">
</script><br />
<br />
Be sure to check out all of the shops, including the curator's (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AllThatIAm">AllThatIAm</a>). She makes beautiful wire and gemstone jewelry. Here's one of my favorite pieces from her shop:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62626158/apatite-amethyst-and-sterling-silver"><img alt="Apatite, Amethyst, and Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Pendant ... MANDALA DREAMS" height="187" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.195583347.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62626158/apatite-amethyst-and-sterling-silver">Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Pendant $395.00</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Feel free to leave a comment here or on the treasury to let us know what you think of the selection!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Elle</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-1092335352561553712011-02-06T08:00:00.001-05:002011-02-06T08:00:10.230-05:00Weekly Treasures: Be My {Geeky} ValentineThe third, in what I have now decided will be a 4-part treasury series, is yet another unconventional collection of items pulled from Etsy search. This week's theme is geekery and has some great gift ideas for those who have nerdy chick or geeky guy to buy for this V-day:<br />
<br />
<script src="http://www.craftcult.com/js/trwi.js?s=2&l=4d4df51e2e6c8eef269ffb64&r=6024&t=s&m=0&u=8081560&">
</script><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I hope you enjoy browsing through this collection and the artists' shops. Please feel free to leave a comment here or <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d4df51e2e6c8eef269ffb64/be-my-geeky-valentine">on the treasury</a> to let me know what you think!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Until next time,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Elle</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-61765574131577952422011-02-01T08:02:00.004-05:002011-02-01T08:06:15.805-05:00Weekly BEST: WriteOwl<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WriteOwl"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.7381840.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This week I have the distinct pleasure of introducing you to Write Owl Designs (WriteOwl) from Portland, Oregon. The multi-talented shop owner, Jean, got her start in journal making at the age of eight. You can read about her source of inspiration <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/WriteOwl">here on her Etsy profile</a>. Write Owl journals are perfect for doodling in, crafting poetry, and so much more. Jean encourages those who buy her items to use them as platforms for creating their own art.<br />
<br />
Writing has always been therapeutic for me, but most of the journals I've had over the years have been spiral composition notebooks. If I could go back and replace those drab, boring notebooks with handmade works of art, these are the ones I couldn't do with out:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55206197/pink-and-brown-cupcake-hardback-journal" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Pink and Brown Cupcake Hardback Journal" height="239" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.170730008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55206197/pink-and-brown-cupcake-hardback-journal">Pink and Brown Cupcake Hardback Journal $26.00</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55207667/romantic-vintage-postcard-hardback" target="_blank"><img alt="Romantic Vintage Postcard Hardback Journal -- Red Spine" height="239" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.170734814.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55207667/romantic-vintage-postcard-hardback">Romantic Vintage Postcard Hardback Journal $26.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In addition to bookmaking, Jean also has a knack for making great desk accessories to go along with the journals, namely hand-painted pottery. Here are a couple of my favorite pieces:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56233977/brown-stripe-and-peach-lace-ceramic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Brown Stripe and Peach Lace Ceramic Pencil Cup" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.174164202.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56233977/brown-stripe-and-peach-lace-ceramic">Peach Lace Ceramic Pencil Cup $15.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55364376/set-of-2-round-teal-and-brown-lace" target="_blank"><img alt="Set of 2 Round Teal and Brown Lace Coasters" height="239" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.171255638.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55364376/set-of-2-round-teal-and-brown-lace">Set of 2 Teal and Brown Lace Coasters $10.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Keep in mind that Write Owl Designs also offers custom orders for those who don't find the perfect item <span style="font-size: small;">already sitting in the shop. Find Write Owl around the web at these locations:</span><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/writeowldesigns">twitter.com/writeowldesigns</a></span><br style="color: black;" /><span style="color: black;"> Facebook:<a href="http://facebook.com/writeowldesigns"> facebook.com/writeowldesigns</a></span><br style="color: black;" /><span style="color: black;"> Blog: <a href="http://writeowldesigns.blogspot.com/">writeowldesigns.blogspot.com</a></span><br style="color: black;" /><span style="color: black;"> Livejournal: <a href="http://writeowldesigns.livejournal.com/">writeowldesigns.livejournal.com </a></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Make sure to check out the shop and, as always, come back here and let us know what items you like best!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Until next time,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Elle</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-29332381222619428382011-01-30T08:00:00.002-05:002011-01-30T08:00:01.817-05:00Weekly Treasures: Be My {Gothic} ValentineThis week my Valentine's Day-themed treasury is a bit darker, but in a good way. While I'm not a part of the Gothic subculture, I do find some of the Goth-themed fine art and handmade items on Etsy to be quite beautiful and filled with complexity. I decided to feature some of these items in a small 12-item treasury I put together using Etsy search:<br />
<br />
<h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d3fac79f9036d9160d03bbb" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;"> 'Be My {Gothic} Valentine' </a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ellesbeads" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;"> ellesbeads </a> </h2><h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;">Beautiful collection of Gothic valentines and romantic items pulled from Etsy search<br />
</h2><table style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 8px; line-height: 19px; width: auto;"><tbody>
<tr> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64835279" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.210885999.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64835279" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Original Art Card '... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/oddballartco" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> oddballartco </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$25.00 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65009510" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.204609972.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65009510" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Dark Victorian Valentin... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpiritedWoodland" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> SpiritedWoodla... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$9.00 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62387538" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.194774226.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62387538" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Blood Red Rose on Gothi... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/robinhoodcouture" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> robinhoodcoutu... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$28.00 </div></td> </tr>
<tr><td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66484054" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.210519452.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66484054" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Tree of Hearts </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/piasayshi" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> piasayshi </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$6.50 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65502517" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.206549546.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65502517" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Desdemona Necklace </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DesignTheory" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> DesignTheory </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$85.00 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/20569160" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.55702992.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/20569160" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> LOVE/HATE 8x10 art prin... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtByLupeFlores" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> ArtByLupeFlore... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$12.99 </div></td> </tr>
<tr><td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/18713677" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.115701631.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/18713677" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> 5 Gothic Black Floral H... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DawnToDuskGifts" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> DawnToDuskGift... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$22.50 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65922061" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.208228377.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65922061" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> The dark night - black... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/floraljewellery" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> floraljeweller... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$18.00 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66728356" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.211523401.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66728356" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Valentines Large Gift S... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rockinpapernscissors" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> rockinpapernsc... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$2.50 </div></td> </tr>
<tr><td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61778606" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.192738219.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61778606" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Only Have Eyes - Goth G... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/GingerDead" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> GingerDead </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$2.75 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37558675" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.112752527.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/37558675" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Black Leather Love Cuff... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LoveAtFirstBlush" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> LoveAtFirstBlu... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$75.00 </div></td> <td height="140px" style="border: 1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64728204" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.203506089.jpg" style="border: none; padding: 0px;" width="140px" /> <br />
</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64728204" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="text-decoration: none;"> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px;"> Rorschach Romance Silk ... </span> </a> <br />
<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LunaLacunaAtelier" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;"> LunaLacunaAtel... </a> </div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$25.00 </div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #b2b2b2; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://www.whalesharkwebsites.com/tools/treasury.php">Treasury tool</a> is sponsored by <a href="http://lazzia.com/">Lazzia.com</a>. </div><br />
I hope you enjoy browsing through these artists' shops! Please feel free to comment here or on the treasury and let me know what you think!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-56378057381697995882011-01-26T08:00:00.002-05:002011-01-26T08:00:02.946-05:00Weekly Treasures: The BEST Spring CollectionI don't know if you're following the national weather stories, but this has been an unusually snowy and (in my opinion) dreary winter. Sometimes it's encouraging to look forward to warmer seasons and relief from slippery black ice and high heating bills. One of my fellow Etsy sellers and BESTeam members has decided to beat the cold with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d3d73d890148eefe3254f31/the-best-spring-collection">a brightly colored team treasury</a> in the spirit of springtime:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d3d73d890148eefe3254f31/the-best-spring-collection"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TAi5gZUw2yk/TT-Fmo4KgEI/AAAAAAAABu8/JRmoay5G2-g/s400/best+spring.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><br />
The item of mine pulled for this treasury is my Yellow Beaded Chunky Adjustable Ring:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65675162/yellow-beaded-chunky-adjustable-ring" target="_blank"><img alt="Yellow Beaded Chunky Adjustable Ring" height="158" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.207240569.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Be sure to check out the curator's shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/YOURDAILYJEWELS">Your Daily Jewels</a>, and all of the wonderful BESTeam shops represented here!<br />
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Also, if you made or were included in a spring or summer-themed treasury, be sure to post the link in the comments!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-26039629588166634242011-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:002011-01-25T08:00:00.404-05:00Weekly BEST: 41park<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/41park"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.7961189.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This week I have the pleasure of introducing you to a talented artisan from Natick, MA (near Boston). Liza, a wife and mother with formal training in fine art and art education, is the creative soul behind 41park. While she has professional experience as a painter and potter, Liza's 41park Etsy shop focuses on my favorite medium: handmade jewelry. In addition to beautiful gemstones and metals, her jewelry often features eco-friendly components such as recycled silver and vintage glass. Here are a few of my favorite items from 41park:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41477386/spiral-bracelet-copper-amethyst" target="_blank"><img alt="Spiral : bracelet . copper . amethyst" height="213" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.126058120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41477386/spiral-bracelet-copper-amethyst">Spiral Bracelet $45.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47324093/lil-girls-nest-necklace-birthstone" target="_blank"><img alt="Lil' Girls Nest : necklace . birthstone . sterling silver" height="213" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.144965694.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47324093/lil-girls-nest-necklace-birthstone">Lil' Girls Nest $37.00</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64059522/mini-half-spiral-ring-sterling-silver" target="_blank"><img alt="Mini Half Spiral : ring . sterling silver . quartz crystal" height="199" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.200907232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64059522/mini-half-spiral-ring-sterling-silver">Mini Half Spiral Ring $40.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62481644/boston-garden-ginkgo-necklace-angelite" target="_blank"><img alt="Boston Garden Ginkgo : necklace . Angelite" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.199460102.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62481644/boston-garden-ginkgo-necklace-angelite">Boston Garden Ginkgo $92.00</a></div><br />
Each of her pieces has a story to tell, so I encourage you to visit the shop and read the descriptions! Find 41park at these places around the web: <br />
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Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/41park">etsy.com/shop/41park</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/41park/278664667185">facebook.com/pages/41park/278664667185</a><br />
Blog: <a href="http://41park.blogspot.com/">41park.blogspot.com</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/41park">twitter.com/41park</a><br />
e-Newsletter: <a href="http://eepurl.com/kZFH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://eepurl.com/kZFH</a><br />
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Don't forget to come back here and leave a comment about your favorite item and/or the 41park shop!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Elle<br />
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<i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-17941563752386594782011-01-23T08:00:00.009-05:002011-01-23T08:00:02.051-05:00Weekly Treasures: Be My {Eco-Friendly} ValentineAs long-time readers know, I love eco-friendly items and try to do my part in minimizing my environmental impact. I also love supporting those artisans who are trying to do the same. For this weekly treasures post, I've put together a small, 12-item treasury of sepia and earth toned eco-friendly items in the spirit of the Valentine's shopping season:<br />
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<h2 style="font-size: 16px; font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;"><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: none;" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d33c79c3bdb8eef5d8d9b7e"> 'Be My {Eco-Friendly} Valentine' </a> by <a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: none;" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ellesbeads"> ellesbeads </a> </h2><h2 style="font-size: 16px; font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;">Lovely collection of recycled, upcycled, repurposed, and otherwise eco-friendly items pulled from Etsy search.<br> </h2><table style="border-spacing: 8px; width: auto; border-collapse: separate; line-height: 19px;"><tbody><tr> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64990882" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.205209460.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64990882" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Je tadore French Adorat... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/deepfried" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> deepfried </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$7.75 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55444586" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.171518251.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55444586" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Love Coasters in Chocol... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sparrownestknits" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> sparrownestkni... </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$28.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66082136" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.208880924.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66082136" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Mixed metal vintage 2 h... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mixedmetalmimi" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> mixedmetalmimi </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$45.00 </div></td> </tr> <tr><td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61063684" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.190341616.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61063684" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> FREE Shipping Valentine... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/braggingbags" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> braggingbags </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$19.99 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64760684" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.203636329.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64760684" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Valentine Heart Purpleh... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/decoratethediva" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> decoratethediv... </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$18.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65592284" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.206912977.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65592284" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Woodgrain magnets - 6 l... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/tinchDesignStudio" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> tinchDesignStu... </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$12.00 </div></td> </tr> <tr><td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63642111" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.205160331.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63642111" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Candle Holder Natural W... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtisticWood" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> ArtisticWood </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$15.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55764648" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.172590306.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55764648" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> PETOSKEYS PUTTY AND LOV... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Allybeans" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> Allybeans </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$15.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65053847" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.204783477.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65053847" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Laser Cut Mini Wooden H... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TimberGreenWoods" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> TimberGreenWoo... </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$3.95 </div></td> </tr> <tr><td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/44199613" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.135359128.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/44199613" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> I Love You - Wood Penda... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SwanRiverStone" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> SwanRiverStone </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$22.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65469313" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.206414755.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65469313" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> Mountain of Love </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/foulardthreads" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> foulardthreads </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$36.00 </div></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="140px" height="140px"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52027183" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img style="border: medium none; padding: 0px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.160084923.jpg" width="140px"> <br> </a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52027183" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif;"> A Little Bit of Romance... </span> </a> <br> <div style="font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(178, 178, 178);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shortysgourmettreats" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> shortysgourmet... </a> </div><div style="color: rgb(120, 192, 66); font-size: 8px; font-family: sans-serif; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">$5.00 </div></td> </tr> </tbody></table><p style="color: rgb(178, 178, 178); font-size: 10px; font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;">Generated using <a href="http://www.whalesharkwebsites.com/tools/treasury.php">Treasury HTML code generator</a> by <a href="http://www.whalesharkwebsites.com">Whale Shark Websites</a>. </p><br />
I hope you enjoy browsing through this collection and the artists' shops. Please feel free to leave a comment here or on the treasury to let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-26074753186892497702011-01-21T19:54:00.001-05:002011-01-21T20:06:32.809-05:00Weekly BEST: Fluttering Flowers<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FlutteringFlowers"><img alt="" height="52" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/iusb_760x100.7856286.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><br />
As a special treat this week, I'm doing a bonus Weekly BEST feature on a shop in Oklahoma that is just too cute not to share with you! Fluttering Flowers is a fantastically whimsical place full of bright color and youthful imagination. <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-align: left;">Deborah, t</span></span>h</span>e artist behind Fluttering Flowers, was introduced to her craft at a young age and has a true talent for shaping plain blocks of clay into something quite magical. Here are a few of my favorites from her large selection of handcrafted pieces:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63971651/4-little-big-eared-bunnies-fimo-and" target="_blank"><img alt="4 Little Big Eared Bunnies FIMO and Sculpey" height="161" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.200565821.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63971651/4-little-big-eared-bunnies-fimo-and">4 Little Big Eared Bunnies $4.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64436564/fruit-pendant-fimo-and-sculpey" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Fruit Pendant FIMO and Sculpey" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.202362935.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64436564/fruit-pendant-fimo-and-sculpey">Fruit Pendant $6.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60218312/7-small-trees-fimo-and-sculpey" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="7 Small Trees Fimo and Sculpey Microbeads Plant Sticks" height="167" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.187497241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60218312/7-small-trees-fimo-and-sculpey">7 Small Trees $3.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64837152/rainbow-mushroom-and-noodle-plant-sticks" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Rainbow Mushroom and Noodle Plant Sticks for Terrarium or House Plant FIMO and Sculpey" height="320" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.203937828.jpg" width="289" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64837152/rainbow-mushroom-and-noodle-plant-sticks">Mushrooms and Noodle Plant Sticks $12.00</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-align: left;">Deborah's</span></span></span> shop has well over 100 listings for you to browse through, so I encourage you to take some time to discover more of her work. You can find Fluttering Flowers at these locations around the web:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FlutteringFlowers">etsy.com/shop/FlutteringFlowers</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://polymerplaytime.blogspot.com/">polymerplaytime.blogspot.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/PicassosTears">twitter.com/PicassosTears</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Be sure to leave a comment and let us know which Fluttering Flowers creation is your favorite!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Elle</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>I'm a part of an Etsy team called <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">Boosting Etsy Shops Team</a> or <a href="http://boostingetsyshopsteam.blogspot.com/" style="color: #f29002; text-decoration: none;">BEST</a>. The purpose of the group is to provide promotion for each team member through our existing social networking accounts. Each week I'll be doing a blog feature about a different team member.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708822687174576479.post-1216700332707793592011-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:002011-01-21T08:00:02.988-05:00EB Friday Hotlist: Rethinking Your Handmade Business' Brand in 2011Topics about branding have been popping up again all over the web, including in the Etsy Blog, over the past couple of months. When the year starts winding down or the new year starts gearing up, people tend to reevaluate their goals and decide where they want to move next. While it's certainly true that this type of reflection can happen at any point during the year, the start of a new year for many people can feel like a new beginning - a fresh, clean slate. In light of this, here are a few questions you should be asking yourself about your business:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/angietorres/4564135255/" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Goal Setting by angietorres, on Flickr"><img alt="Goal Setting" height="133" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4564135255_23e3aee2ac.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Angie Torres<br />
Used under Creative Commons License</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>1. What were my goals last year and how well did I meet them? Were these realistic goals, or perhaps were they either overly ambitious or not ambitious enough?<br />
2. What are my goals for the new year? Where do I want my shop to be in 3 months? 6 months? 12 months? How do I plan to go about achieving those goals? If I'm not sure, how will I decide on the best approach to try?<br />
3. Where do I see my business in the long term? 2 years from now? 5 years from now? Do my goals for the next year help me move forward towards my long term goals?<br />
<br />
In order to really answer these questions, you need to keep your brand in mind. If you can't clearly articulate your brand in a few short sentences, it's time to stop and really think about what exactly you're attempting to accomplish. Here are some questions to ask yourself in order to define your brand:<br />
<br />
1. What am I selling? <br />
2. What need does this product fill and for whom?<br />
3. What makes my product unique from the others on the market?<br />
<br />
Those last two questions are really part of a larger question: Why should someone buy what I'm selling? Once you've figured out the answers, you can start branding your shop. You want to make sure that your business, from the shop front to the final package in the customer's hands, reflects the answers to those three basic questions. If you're able to consistently fill a need with your product and you are somehow distinctive from other people selling things to meet that same need, you've got a unique selling proposition (USP). Your goal at that point is to share your USP with your target market. Everything from your packaging, to your communication with customers, to your shop's graphics should be a reflection of your USP.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnonolan/4701714888/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="#12 - Goals by JohnONolan, on Flickr"><img alt="#12 - Goals" height="132" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4701714888_e29a0e3e8e.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by John O'Nolan<br />
Used under Creative Commons License</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Perhaps your goal for 2011 should be developing your USP and figuring out your branding. Perhaps you should be tweaking your branding or focusing on new ways to reach your target market. Maybe it's time to make the tough decision to separate items into two shops that simply can't be effectively branded in the same shop. Or maybe it's time to focus on the visual - making your shop graphics and product photos tell a coherent, attractive story. Whatever your goals for 2011, be sure to keep your brand and USP in mind, so that any changes you make are in sync with the needs of your target market.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Suggested Reading:</b></u><br />
<br />
<u>Etsy Blog:</u> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/storque/seller-handbook/shop-makeover-creating-a-brand-identity-for-your-shop-11567/"><span style="font-size: small;">Shop Makeover: Creating a Brand Identity for Your Shop</span></a> - Article in the Storque about defining your brand, complete with a USP worksheet and tips for how to make your brand consistent at every point of the sale (before, during, after).<br />
<br />
<u>The Bookshop Blog:</u> <a href="http://bookshopblog.com/2010/11/25/bookshop-branding-your-store-is-not-your-own/">Bookshop Branding - Your Store Is Not Your Own</a> - Article for B&M booksellers, but when taken as a metaphor, it works beautifully for online sellers as well. For example, when he talks about the backdrop (paint, shelving, etc.), think shop banner, avatar, color scheme, photo props, etc.<br />
<br />
<u>Brand Studio:</u> <a href="http://ibrandstudio.com/inspiration/6-tips-for-branding-your-office-freebies">6 Tips for Branding Your Business Freebies</a> - Great ideas that can be adapted and applied to online businesses. As the title suggests, this article is specifically about extending your branding to your freebies, i.e. business cards, magnets, pens, discount cards, etc.<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
ElleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0