This week was all over the place. We had the primary elections for the 2010-11 SBO's, in which #3 was running. The slogan she chose was, "Vote for me. I already told my mom I won." Catchy, isn't it? She put together a great video for her skit too where she sang her own rendition of the Backstreet Boys "I want it that way". This girl's got moxy - I'll give her that. She made the first cut too, so she'll continue on next week. I've been crafting up a storm making samples of the projects we'll make at girls' camp. I'm just about done putting the devotionals together too ... along with the camp skit and cheer. (It's been busy) Soccer games ... photographing extra stock for my shop update that hasn't actually happened yet ... and #4's orchestra concert filled up the rest of the week. OH! And I scored on a great card rack for the Christmas shows - extra motivation to actually get some cards designed and printed up, right? I can always use extra motivation.
Showing posts with label Etsy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Etsy. Show all posts
Friday, May 21, 2010
Week in Review 5/20/10
This week was all over the place. We had the primary elections for the 2010-11 SBO's, in which #3 was running. The slogan she chose was, "Vote for me. I already told my mom I won." Catchy, isn't it? She put together a great video for her skit too where she sang her own rendition of the Backstreet Boys "I want it that way". This girl's got moxy - I'll give her that. She made the first cut too, so she'll continue on next week. I've been crafting up a storm making samples of the projects we'll make at girls' camp. I'm just about done putting the devotionals together too ... along with the camp skit and cheer. (It's been busy) Soccer games ... photographing extra stock for my shop update that hasn't actually happened yet ... and #4's orchestra concert filled up the rest of the week. OH! And I scored on a great card rack for the Christmas shows - extra motivation to actually get some cards designed and printed up, right? I can always use extra motivation.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Etsy Love
My sweet long-distance friend, Rachel, from ReadySetGo featured me in her fabulous treasury this week. LOVE the color Rachel! Thanks for thinking of me!
You can view it in detail here.
You can view it in detail here.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Week in Review 5/13/10
Another birthday = another partay! #4 opted to skip the 'friend' party last year, so we went a little overboard this year. We decided to take his rag-tag group of friends to Boondocks for the night of their lives. ;) They were all so excited and were such fun to hang out with. We all had a blast watching the boys run around and get crazy. Driving and laser tag were definitely the highlights of the night ... followed very closely by his violin cake (courtesy of his ever talented mommy ... don't forget I'm the step-mommy so I'm not bragging shamelessly this time).We also squeezed in Izzy biweekly haircut and were able to have a great visit with hubby's mom on Mothers' Day. Work is ... work. I've finished up counting my leftover inventory from Beehive and have to admit I was more than a little disappointed. I should really just stop selling these in Utah. I can't compete with jewelry, hair accessories and baby items in this market. :( On the other hand, now I have loads of new stock for a big shop update. I just need to photograph like a madwoman and make all the new listings.
I also have girls' camp in the works and have been busy planning craft projects and devotionals for the girls. I'm running out of time for that too, only about a month left. Good thing I work well under pressure.
Cosa Verde
I was recently contacted by one of the owners of cosa verde. "cosa verde is an online showcase where you can market your environmentally-friendly goods directly to shoppers around the world. Think of us as a craft fair for the eco-conscious." Liz fell in love with my work and has invited me to come and check them out. She's giving me a great discount (free) on a trial basis ... so why not? They're site looks great, is easy to navigate and features some great artists who are also trying to make the world a greener place. Hopefully I'll be all set up within a few days; it will be interesting to see what this does to my Etsy traffic. Here's a sneak peek for you:
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Artist Crush: Bykali
Ooh, you've gotta love that Etsy has a 'Shop Local' feature. It's great to see what your neighbors are coming up with when you hit a dry spell. Bykali is one of my favorites. She's a long-time crush that I watch from afar. I've even come across her booth at local craft fairs, but haven't had a chance to meet her yet. I love that her pieces are industrial in design, but have this super glossy finish that gives them a bling all their own.
I wonder what your neighbors have come up with.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
De-stash Craft
It's that time. The kids are in school. There are quiet moments to be found between laundry and work. The crafty goddess (ha!) in me is dying to come out. It's time to do some crafty de-stashing. First up is a new batch of classy glass, magnets to be more specific.
You'll need:
jumbo flat glass gems
Mod Podge
fine glitter
rub on decals of choice
something to cut fun text from
x-acto knife
glass and ceramic paint
appropriately sized paint brushes
magnets
glue of choice
1) Wash the glass marbles/gems in hot soapy water and dry thoroughly. We need to get all the dust, grease and schmutz off of them so our pretties will all stick properly. Choose a set of 3 or 4 that are about the same size that do not have big flaws.
2) Decide which decals you want to apply. Cut them to the appropriate size hold in place on the flat side of the glass gem, sticky side down. Use your applicator tool to transfer the decal to the gem. Be sure to go over all areas of the decal before you move on.
3) Use your x-acto knife to carefully cut around the text you'd like to use. I cut a jagged line on all four sides of the word or phrase and then push along the cut with the blade to tear the piece out. Once you've decided where to place it on your gem, spread a smooth, thin layer of Mod Podge to the side of the paper that will be visible. Carefully adhere it to the glass and press down firmly on all parts of the paper.
4) Spread a thin, even layer of Mod Podge over the flat area of the gem. This is to seal the text and decal and will also hold your glitter. Sprinkle glitter where you'd like it and allow the whole piece to dry thoroughly. You can also use clear fingernail polish for this step.
5) Shake your paint bottle to mix it well, then apply a generous layer of paint to the entire flat area of the gem. If you get streaks, your paint is probably too old. Don't worry, just let it dry and then paint on a second coat. Let the paint dry until it is no longer tacky.
6) Using your glue of choice, attach the magnets. Ta-da! These are quick to make and gorgeous to boot! What great little gifts for friends, neighbors, teachers ... just about anyone!
There are more, but you'll have to check my Etsy store in the next couple of days to see them!
You'll need:
jumbo flat glass gems
Mod Podge
fine glitter
rub on decals of choice
something to cut fun text from
x-acto knife
glass and ceramic paint
appropriately sized paint brushes
magnets
glue of choice
1) Wash the glass marbles/gems in hot soapy water and dry thoroughly. We need to get all the dust, grease and schmutz off of them so our pretties will all stick properly. Choose a set of 3 or 4 that are about the same size that do not have big flaws.
2) Decide which decals you want to apply. Cut them to the appropriate size hold in place on the flat side of the glass gem, sticky side down. Use your applicator tool to transfer the decal to the gem. Be sure to go over all areas of the decal before you move on.
3) Use your x-acto knife to carefully cut around the text you'd like to use. I cut a jagged line on all four sides of the word or phrase and then push along the cut with the blade to tear the piece out. Once you've decided where to place it on your gem, spread a smooth, thin layer of Mod Podge to the side of the paper that will be visible. Carefully adhere it to the glass and press down firmly on all parts of the paper.
4) Spread a thin, even layer of Mod Podge over the flat area of the gem. This is to seal the text and decal and will also hold your glitter. Sprinkle glitter where you'd like it and allow the whole piece to dry thoroughly. You can also use clear fingernail polish for this step.
5) Shake your paint bottle to mix it well, then apply a generous layer of paint to the entire flat area of the gem. If you get streaks, your paint is probably too old. Don't worry, just let it dry and then paint on a second coat. Let the paint dry until it is no longer tacky.
6) Using your glue of choice, attach the magnets. Ta-da! These are quick to make and gorgeous to boot! What great little gifts for friends, neighbors, teachers ... just about anyone!
There are more, but you'll have to check my Etsy store in the next couple of days to see them!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Artist Crush: Crafterall
I love it when the Etsy Finds email brings me something truly unique and delicious! A short while ago it delivered a beautiful image from an Etsy shop called Crafterall. It was love at first sight and I immediately contacted the artist to ask about her perfect packaging. We got to 'talking' and she was so lovely as to answer a few other questions so that I could introduce her to you properly.
Tell us a little about yourself ...
My name is Marnie, I'm a native Minnesotan, and I share my home with my hubby, our two young daughters, and a retired racing greyhound. I have waited tables at a pizza restaurant, greeted guests at a hotel, worked at a scrapbook store, and taught English to high school seniors. My favorite job is that of full-time Mommy and part-time crafter. I'm able to sneak in bits of work here and there throughout the day and then dive in at night after the girls go to bed. My husband telecommutes from home so we live a pretty darn idyllic life. It is sweet.
Have you always been a crafty gal?
Yes, absolutely. For me, crafting is the necessary and logical next step from my "Pack-rat-ism." For years, I would keep virtually anything with the firm thought that I could "make somethin' outta this someday." I've been able to cut back considerably on my collecting of stuff, but my collection itself is still too large and still too "precious" to cut into. I think the inherent re-purposing of most crafts is what has appealed to me the most over the years. Being able to either repair something or to make something new for myself using materials I have around me is surprisingly liberating and inspiring feeling. Frankly, it's a bit addictive, and I love it.
How in the world did you start making art with cut paper?
I have always enjoyed working with paper. For a while I was obsessed with origami, then it was on to making my own cards to send to pen pals. My high school art teacher, Mr. May taught me the proper techniques for using an X-Acto blade and it was like I was given a new drawing tool. I learned how to hold a pair of scissors and move the paper to cut more intricately, and, working at a paper store allowed me to experiment on paper styles and thicknesses. The topographic designs of much of my work began as a happy accident that gained a decent following. Even though I've cut through nearly a million layers of cardstock over the last two years, each piece has been different and that has afforded me enough creative freedom to maintain that delicate balance between art and business. Still, I continually strive to make my designs more intricate, interesting, and innovative.
What things inspire you?
I'm inspired most by little masterpieces, natural or designed. I love finding little interesting details in nature: the tidy little hands of a squirrel around an acorn, the perfect symmetry of an emerging seedling, the curve of the long whiskers over the eye's of my dog. I also get inspired by the work of others: artist Andy Goldsworthy, composer Gustav Holst, and so many of my colleagues on Etsy. I tend to carry a big "net" with me at all times, and mentally capture little details like this as often as I can without being too "spacey." I love my little camera and bring it with me practically everywhere for this same reason.
Where is your 'happy place'?
I try to make any place my happy place. Life is way too short to be grumpy about anything. Still, there are a few places that I suppose are a little more sacred: a certain little glen in the woods on my parents' property up north, being sandwiched between my daughters with a book on my lap, my bedroom on a sunny Saturday morning, a moonless night in February while walking the dog, and my studio downstairs when it's way too late and I'm just getting my second wind.
Where have you found your biggest financial success so far? (Etsy, wholesale, craft shows, etc)
Over the long run, Etsy has been a steadily growing source of success for me. I've made some great connections and contacts through it and I sincerely value the entire setup of the program. It is an increasingly complicated system to learn, and each step has helped me understand more of what it takes to be a successful independent artist. It is because of Etsy that I have had wholesale orders, invitations to craft fairs and other business-related ventures.
Marnie, it was an absolute pleasure finding you. Thank you.
Tell us a little about yourself ...My name is Marnie, I'm a native Minnesotan, and I share my home with my hubby, our two young daughters, and a retired racing greyhound. I have waited tables at a pizza restaurant, greeted guests at a hotel, worked at a scrapbook store, and taught English to high school seniors. My favorite job is that of full-time Mommy and part-time crafter. I'm able to sneak in bits of work here and there throughout the day and then dive in at night after the girls go to bed. My husband telecommutes from home so we live a pretty darn idyllic life. It is sweet.
Have you always been a crafty gal?
Yes, absolutely. For me, crafting is the necessary and logical next step from my "Pack-rat-ism." For years, I would keep virtually anything with the firm thought that I could "make somethin' outta this someday." I've been able to cut back considerably on my collecting of stuff, but my collection itself is still too large and still too "precious" to cut into. I think the inherent re-purposing of most crafts is what has appealed to me the most over the years. Being able to either repair something or to make something new for myself using materials I have around me is surprisingly liberating and inspiring feeling. Frankly, it's a bit addictive, and I love it.
How in the world did you start making art with cut paper?I have always enjoyed working with paper. For a while I was obsessed with origami, then it was on to making my own cards to send to pen pals. My high school art teacher, Mr. May taught me the proper techniques for using an X-Acto blade and it was like I was given a new drawing tool. I learned how to hold a pair of scissors and move the paper to cut more intricately, and, working at a paper store allowed me to experiment on paper styles and thicknesses. The topographic designs of much of my work began as a happy accident that gained a decent following. Even though I've cut through nearly a million layers of cardstock over the last two years, each piece has been different and that has afforded me enough creative freedom to maintain that delicate balance between art and business. Still, I continually strive to make my designs more intricate, interesting, and innovative.
What things inspire you?
I'm inspired most by little masterpieces, natural or designed. I love finding little interesting details in nature: the tidy little hands of a squirrel around an acorn, the perfect symmetry of an emerging seedling, the curve of the long whiskers over the eye's of my dog. I also get inspired by the work of others: artist Andy Goldsworthy, composer Gustav Holst, and so many of my colleagues on Etsy. I tend to carry a big "net" with me at all times, and mentally capture little details like this as often as I can without being too "spacey." I love my little camera and bring it with me practically everywhere for this same reason.
Where is your 'happy place'?I try to make any place my happy place. Life is way too short to be grumpy about anything. Still, there are a few places that I suppose are a little more sacred: a certain little glen in the woods on my parents' property up north, being sandwiched between my daughters with a book on my lap, my bedroom on a sunny Saturday morning, a moonless night in February while walking the dog, and my studio downstairs when it's way too late and I'm just getting my second wind.
Where have you found your biggest financial success so far? (Etsy, wholesale, craft shows, etc)
Over the long run, Etsy has been a steadily growing source of success for me. I've made some great connections and contacts through it and I sincerely value the entire setup of the program. It is an increasingly complicated system to learn, and each step has helped me understand more of what it takes to be a successful independent artist. It is because of Etsy that I have had wholesale orders, invitations to craft fairs and other business-related ventures.
Marnie, it was an absolute pleasure finding you. Thank you.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
I'm a wiki-How Hero!
Do people often say to you, "You should sell these on Etsy!" or "Are you on Etsy yet?" If the answer is yes, then it's time to get off your keester and set up shop! It's easier than you think, trust me.(my intro)
It's official, I wrote my very first wiki-How article this morning. It took just a smidge of planning and I had to organize my thoughts, but I got to write about something that is part of my day-to-day ... Etsy! There was actually a request posted for "How to sell crafts on Etsy". How had this not been posted yet? Lucky me. It's pretty straight forward with the necessary tips and small details. I hope it makes sense to other readers out there too ... but it's done. Wow! What if I could accomplish any goal in less than 24 hours? Wouldn't that just change my whole universe?
And now little old me, MariposaAvenue, is on the Charity Leaderboard with my own literary contribution. I am responsible for 1 more book going to Africa. I wonder how many more articles I can come up with this month. Stay tuned.
It's official, I wrote my very first wiki-How article this morning. It took just a smidge of planning and I had to organize my thoughts, but I got to write about something that is part of my day-to-day ... Etsy! There was actually a request posted for "How to sell crafts on Etsy". How had this not been posted yet? Lucky me. It's pretty straight forward with the necessary tips and small details. I hope it makes sense to other readers out there too ... but it's done. Wow! What if I could accomplish any goal in less than 24 hours? Wouldn't that just change my whole universe?
And now little old me, MariposaAvenue, is on the Charity Leaderboard with my own literary contribution. I am responsible for 1 more book going to Africa. I wonder how many more articles I can come up with this month. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Undiscovered Pretties - MorninGloria's
I love this set of three. They would look great in pearl or iridescent beads for a bride too. These particular pieces are set on silver flat clips, but she is happy to customize them for you. Go see which ones you like best
Monday, July 27, 2009
Artist Crush
Let me introduce you to one of my favorite Etsy photographers, Erin Tyner. She is self-taught and likes to experiment with new styles and techniques. This ongoing series entitled Half Awake is currently available in her Etsy shop. It features miniature figures in different settings that are breathtaking. I love her vision. You can see more of her work at Erin Tyner Photography. Her prints are very reasonably priced. Go and get acquainted with her.
Friday, July 24, 2009
I'll Stick Around ...
I woke up to more Etsy sales this morning - I LOVE YOU EMILY!!! Over 100 new hearts and at least 10 sales with a couple custom orders in the works now too. Etsy Finds, you're a life saver. This has a been a tough year when it comes down to numbers and I sometimes wonder if it's time to bury the lanterns and move on. But days like these talk me into sticking it out. I'm inspired and re-energized and ready to put some great new items in my shop. The whole new vibe reminded me of this great video by Arckid ... so I thought I'd share the sentiment with you today. Crank this one up.After the 'abuse' and the 'neglect' over the last few months, the praise and encouragement I received yesterday are enough to talk me into staying. Thank you.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Etsy Finds
Yay me! I was lucky enough to be included in the Etsy Finds today! What a great surprise for a blah Thursday morning. If you don't already get these emails, you can see the other featured artists here. This is the piece Emily chose from my shop. I love Emily!!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Finished!!!
I just finished up this great class from a fantastic Etsy shop called The Sequined Shoe. Kara is truly ingenious! I wish I'd been that driven as a 17 year old. What in the heck was I doing with all my time?
Her art journaling class centered around music inspiration gave me the opportunities to create these goodies. Admittedly, this is not my normal style of art ... but it was a lot of fun to get my hands dirty and glue stuff on to layers and layers of thick, wrinkly paper while listening to some of my favorite music. My girls are both dying to try their hands at it now too. 
** Posted edit: Just realized I have one more page to do for random lyric interjection ... and I forgot to make the doily flower embellishment. Oops. Back to work.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Undiscovered Genius - Adoptabot
Brian Marshall should be my new best friend.
Every once in a while a search for new and fabulous ideas through the Etsy Pounce feature. If sales are slow for me, I search for "Just Sold" to see what in the heck people ARE buying these days. Usually I look through the "Undiscovered" shops to see if I can help out another artist and be their first purchase. Now and again I find true genius like this. How fun are these guys?
If Brian really were my new bestie ... I'm sure he'd send me one of these delightful orphans for my upcoming birthday next month. Brian? Thoughts? :D Go check out his shop HERE and pick out your favorite.
Every once in a while a search for new and fabulous ideas through the Etsy Pounce feature. If sales are slow for me, I search for "Just Sold" to see what in the heck people ARE buying these days. Usually I look through the "Undiscovered" shops to see if I can help out another artist and be their first purchase. Now and again I find true genius like this. How fun are these guys?
If Brian really were my new bestie ... I'm sure he'd send me one of these delightful orphans for my upcoming birthday next month. Brian? Thoughts? :D Go check out his shop HERE and pick out your favorite.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Artist Crush
I confess. I am in love with Amy Giocomelli's work. The colors. The tone. The flow of her pieces all speak to me. I’m partial to the larger works that spill over to two or three canvases. They belong over my fireplace, in my dining room and one in my bedroom would be dreamy. Amy is from LA, but now lives in Colorado. She started her career as a mural artist and has her work displayed in all 8 Disney parks around the world.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Looking Ahead
Look what came for me in the mail yesterday! It’s my press kit for the American Craft Council Show in San Francisco, complete with 5 Exhibitor Guest Passes. I have been accepted to the AltCraft section of the show August 14-16. The Council describes it like this:
“This section features rising indie craft artists whose work illustrates the innovative techniques and materials of the burgeoning new handmade movement. The work of 16 artists, selected through a special jury process, will be presented in a unique loft space in the Fort Mason pier.”
Yay me! They’ve also opened up this show to wholesale buyers, so hopefully I’ll be able to pick up a few new accounts there as well. Now, I just need to nail down my display options and try to really ‘wow’ them. Huge thanks going out to the Etsy Storque who plugged their 'Call for Artists'!! I owe you guys.
“This section features rising indie craft artists whose work illustrates the innovative techniques and materials of the burgeoning new handmade movement. The work of 16 artists, selected through a special jury process, will be presented in a unique loft space in the Fort Mason pier.”
Yay me! They’ve also opened up this show to wholesale buyers, so hopefully I’ll be able to pick up a few new accounts there as well. Now, I just need to nail down my display options and try to really ‘wow’ them. Huge thanks going out to the Etsy Storque who plugged their 'Call for Artists'!! I owe you guys.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Festival Pendant Lights
These fun little babies are my latest creation. I'm so proud.
OK. I have to admit that they were really my dear hubbies great idea. I've made a larger version of them for about a year now, but he was adamant that they would look great in a smaller, soup can sort of size. I thought he was a little crazy, but gave it a shot to show him I knew better. *sigh* He was right! And look how cute they are!
I have them in a load of colors: red, yellow, blue, green, white, purple and gold.
I just need to plan a fabulous photo shoot so I can update my Etsy shop and give them a proper spotlight.
OK. I have to admit that they were really my dear hubbies great idea. I've made a larger version of them for about a year now, but he was adamant that they would look great in a smaller, soup can sort of size. I thought he was a little crazy, but gave it a shot to show him I knew better. *sigh* He was right! And look how cute they are!
I have them in a load of colors: red, yellow, blue, green, white, purple and gold.
I just need to plan a fabulous photo shoot so I can update my Etsy shop and give them a proper spotlight.
Monday, July 13, 2009
New Favorite Shop
These are featured in Tara Gilchrist's etsy store and are just gorgeous. I love fused glass and am always looking for more. I just can't help myself. 
I love the colors and the workmanship looks fantastic. They are sweet and simple, just perfect for me. Go and have a look at her other listings too. These would make great gifts, especially considering that her prices are so modest. Have fun shopping.
I love the colors and the workmanship looks fantastic. They are sweet and simple, just perfect for me. Go and have a look at her other listings too. These would make great gifts, especially considering that her prices are so modest. Have fun shopping.
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