tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22600284404989337302024-02-07T20:13:05.024-08:00Getting Crafty with Handmade SpecialtiesCrafty tips and other various ramblings.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-16815951390760669492014-02-18T13:52:00.000-08:002014-02-18T13:52:31.704-08:00Well, it's that time of year again...the time of year when I make a promise to myself to update my blog more often.<br />
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This time I might actually stick to it. I have a whole list of new crafts that I'm excited to make and share, and I also have some new and helpful crafting hints that any crafter can easily implement into their works of art.<br />
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So what's new this week?<br />
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Mirrors...<br />
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I've dabbled in almost every craft imaginable but what has stuck with me the most has been working with polymer clay. I LOVE the colors! So this week's project is working on combining some mirrors and clay together.<br />
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I'll be sure to keep you all updated on the results...promise:)<br />
<br />Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-70066709500725003622013-05-02T15:08:00.002-07:002013-05-02T15:08:58.485-07:00Crafting...Why Bother?Most people think I'm nuts for making a living out of crafting. Admittedly, it isn't the most lucrative career path I could have chosen for myself, but after 13 years of building my business I just refuse to give it up. I constantly fail and I always struggle. There's never enough time in the day to finish my work and there is always a new project to finish. It's frustrating, and at times, just a headache.<br />
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So why bother with it, and why do I encourage others to do it? One reason, I LOVE it! I've had many failures but I've also had huge successes, and it's those achievements that keep me inspired. Sometimes it's watching the success of other crafters that keep me going. I hosted a craft show at our civic center last year and I had a crafter stop in to see if there were any spaces available. Unfortunately, I had sold out and was completely full. I was running around like a maniac coordinating the show and checking on everyone, that I basically sent the poor guy away because I just didn't have the time to talk to him.<br />
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As he walked out the door one of my volunteers pulled me aside and said he had driven two hours just for a chance to see if there was a way he could display his work. I immediately ran out the door to talk to him. It turns out he had made some beautiful garden decorations. I still didn't have any room for him, but he wanted to bring in his laptop and show customers what he made. I agreed to let him in and gave him a small spot at one of the lunch tables, but because of that, a customer was able to see his work and he made a big sale. Needless to say, he went home a very happy crafter. But before he left to make his long trip home, he had mentioned his wife didn't think he was going to sell anything. My heart went out to him, because I knew what it felt like to not have support for your passion. So while it was good to know that he made the big sale, but it was even better knowing that he did it with little support and had the odds stacked against him.<br />
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It's stories like this that make what I do completely worth it. I know what it takes to put your heart and soul into something, to take the time and money and invest it into something you can only hope will bring you success. It's tough, but it's also the most rewarding experience I've ever had; and to be a part of someone's success story, makes what I do even better.<br />
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Help make a crafters day successful and stop by a craft fair, shop online or visit a local store. You never know what you're going to find and you have no idea how special that sale might be to its creator.<br />
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Here's some links to get you started...<br />
www.handmadespecialties.com<br />
www.handmadespecialties.artfire.com <br />
www.artfire.com<br />
www.etsy.com<br />
www.festivalnet.com<br />
www.craftlister.com <br />
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Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-60561186759641995442011-09-16T12:22:00.000-07:002011-09-16T12:27:49.048-07:00September Updates<div>September is here and that means the Fall season is ready to make its mark on the year. All of our crafters have been busy making new crafts and updating their display spaces. We have new crafters and fun events scheduled for the Fall so read on to view our newest updates.</div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tent Sale Saturday, September 17th</span><br />Get up to 50% off fall decor including candles, dishes, wall hangings, quilted table cloths and runners, jewelry and candles.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spring Craft Show Scheduled for May 5th, 2012</span><br />We are currently looking for crafters to join us at our Spring Craft Show at the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center on May 5th. Spaces start at just $25.00. If you would like an application please contact us at raeanne@handmadespecialties.com or call 847-546-0632.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fall Products Now Listed Online!</span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/HandmadeSpecialties/3828445" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a><br /><img style="width: 245px; height: 215px;" alt="Skeleton Halloween Countdown" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--120000--103917_product_281257493_thumb_large.jpg" /> <img style="width: 211px; height: 282px;" alt="Polymer Clay Halloween Witch" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--120000--103917_product_896112061_thumb_large.jpg" /><br /><a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/HandmadeSpecialties/3828445" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Use the coupon code FALL for free shipping on our Fall items.</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Crafts in Store</span><br />Be sure to stop in and see our quilted and crochet baby blankets, new soy candles, vintage tin signs and embroidered cloths. If you are looking for special orders, get them in soon before the busy Christmas season begins.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Show List</span><br />October 1st: Fox Lake OktoberFest<br />November 19th: Wildwood Presbyterian Church<br />November 26th/27th: Lake County Fairgrounds<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fall/Winter Hours</span><br />Monday Friday 11am-7pm<br />Saturday 10am-6pmS<br />unday Closed<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Sales Start October 1st</span><br />Get your pumpkins here on October 1st, 8th and 22nd and join us on the 22nd for our Fall Fest, where we will have pumpkin painting, raffles, hot chocolate and fun projects for the whole family. Festivities start at 11am.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-953722662281022542011-07-26T10:28:00.000-07:002011-08-01T09:35:59.503-07:00Crafting for Profit, pt3: Where are you selling it?Where you sell your crafts is just as important as what you're making. You have to decide whether you want to sit at a show all day, work on a website or leave your crafts in someone else's hands. They all come with advantages and disadvantages, you just have to decide what works best for you.<br /><br /><br />Let's start with the craft shows. Craft shows are wonderful places to network. You can find out about other crafts shows in the area and mingle with other artists. This is also a great place to establish a customer base and get feedback on your creations. The drawback is that you have to pack up your stuff, unload it, display it, pack it back up and take it home. It's a lot of work but if you are up to the challenge, try one out. Look for them in in local paper ads, churches, schools,<br />villages and online.<br /><br /><br />If you don't have time for a craft show, try selling online. There are easy to use sites, such as Artfire and Etsy where you can upload your pictures, fill out the descriptions and make contact with buyers. Selling online is a time consuming task and your presentation is just as important online as it is at a show, but you don't have to worry about lugging your belongings everywhere.<br /><br />You may want to also consider selling at stores or consignment shops. Check out the store and ask about their rules and policies. There should be a clear contract and pay period. If there is not, reconsider your options. You don't want to be in a store that cannot clearly tell you when they cut checks. Oce you are in a store that you are comfortable with, keep the space stocked with new and seasonally appropriate items. Getting into a store gives you daily exposure without the need to haul your creations from one location to another.<br /><br /><br />And for my last bit of advice on where to sell, don't forget to network with friends, family and co-workers, always when it is appropriate, of course. Home parties and business organizations are great places to network and establish clientele.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-28908790449293671332011-07-07T10:00:00.000-07:002011-07-07T13:14:37.884-07:00Smelling Great with Bath and Candle CraftsWhile dabbling in various crafts I came across some bath and candle supplies and decided to give it a try. I made pillars, soap bars, body washes, tarts and anything else I could think of creating. It turns out though, I was terrible at it! I wasn't patient enough to wait for the right temperature to pour candles, and my bath stuff was nice, but nothing spectacular. So I give credit to my wonderful bath and candle crafters here at my store. They make high quality products that they have spent their valuable time making and creating so that we all have the chance to smell great and feel good!<br /><br />If you are in the area July 22nd, we are having a candle and spa party where you can sample our bath products from 7pm-9pm. If you can't make it, be sure to visit them at their websites. Here's a little preview...<br /><br /><br /><br />Nancy Hertz- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lakehousesoycandles">Lake House Soy Candles</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsPKquTfoUUTjlLWp69G6VvUJ5Is1LEMmp_gJjYWSfWeSI0_9DzMK4W9o0sWuvYb2dKeRo81JuX_w6dxDPN57A4ow7WVZ4QbQYmSIBRzZ88deKeIU-ESERNnwwAekNkc9oxLX_zxOQrM/s1600/DSC02547.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626691461201016466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsPKquTfoUUTjlLWp69G6VvUJ5Is1LEMmp_gJjYWSfWeSI0_9DzMK4W9o0sWuvYb2dKeRo81JuX_w6dxDPN57A4ow7WVZ4QbQYmSIBRzZ88deKeIU-ESERNnwwAekNkc9oxLX_zxOQrM/s320/DSC02547.JPG" /></a><br />Nancy Hertz is owner and creator of Lake House Soy Candles. Her bath and candle products are environmentally safe and made from soy. Her candles have a strong scent throw and come in various sizes from 2oz tarts to 20oz jars. I've actually been using the tarts as an air freshener in the car. I just open the lid, set it in the cup holder and let the fragrance fill the car. It's been three weeks since I first put it in there and it's just as strong as the first day I placed it.<br /><br />Her smelly jellies are another great product. If you're not familiar with it, it's a jelly like substance that mixes with a fragrance. It's not a candle so you don't have to light it, a plus for people like me who don't light candles in the summer or have cats that jump all over tables and counters knocking things to the ground. All you do is put it in a container and smell away! I've been putting it in the bathroom and on a high shelf in the dog's room. When they dry out you just add water and you can even mix the different colors and pour them into layers in glass jars for really pretty effects.<br /><br />I hardly ever use makeup but I'm addicted to lip gloss and chapstick. I have one in every jacket pocket, purse and room in my house. I always seem to lose them so I figure if I put one everywhere I'll always have one around. Thankfully, Nancy has also started making Diva Lip Balm in addition to everything else she has. It's full of Vitamin E and is made from moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil. It's well worth a try for $2 in flavors like Wicked Watermelon, Posh Punch, Mango Tango and Ruby Red Cherry Pucker.<br /><br /><br />Pam Bigelow- <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=164354&seller_id=111367&op=new">Willow Trail Soap</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnZDWZct4VL179LD1HgAOI_7JR1ubuXP9qwZHvEKvqwo2uucDM3sCRR3Pw3MStQNNkxUur9HdIGO8H3VWHtN6Fts_FQCSCo46QJT5tfa-3F1edZ8MNYpsrzOEsnuJeUeq4aSIyzRjnRk/s1600/DSC02768.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuH-JnFByXGEyHAcPtPWAmAAPrpAxt1QGNUinz2lQ46CZcKNP4hmwW8QuDUHZfSqk96p6OXlNuTHvfEFUacLYND-hS-adVNJFx5t2fKJK9Hldhyphenhyphenq_VoxWqkMQQwpFip1YIlkFtlp0ivM/s1600/DSC02789.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626697132986246290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuH-JnFByXGEyHAcPtPWAmAAPrpAxt1QGNUinz2lQ46CZcKNP4hmwW8QuDUHZfSqk96p6OXlNuTHvfEFUacLYND-hS-adVNJFx5t2fKJK9Hldhyphenhyphenq_VoxWqkMQQwpFip1YIlkFtlp0ivM/s320/DSC02789.JPG" /></a><br />As I mentioned before, I dabbled in soap making. It turns out, I'm much better at using it than making it! I love the fact that Pam has taken the time to create colorful layers in her soaps. Not only are they pretty, but they have a rich lather when you use them. They leave a light scent behind without drying out your hands. Even her fragrances are unique, like Asian Plum and Blooming Tulips.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_y0kQRzuNtXl_pauAdeMWgJHsA6mXegOhlmXW5p_D_3YudYTvo8NjJt2D3iDDJTn4YStvzU1H29MA32cYOkwT6yPuWpSRXhOqwCntHfh8cRUkDyrbX7LpI2B42Kb_ynue_1aw7RzlIuw/s1600/DSC02782.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626697233320299906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_y0kQRzuNtXl_pauAdeMWgJHsA6mXegOhlmXW5p_D_3YudYTvo8NjJt2D3iDDJTn4YStvzU1H29MA32cYOkwT6yPuWpSRXhOqwCntHfh8cRUkDyrbX7LpI2B42Kb_ynue_1aw7RzlIuw/s320/DSC02782.JPG" /></a>Pam also makes this fantastic sugar scrub. I love it! Especially since it's summer and I wander around in sandals all the time, so I use it to keep my feet nicely moisturized. It's not as rough on your skin, like salt scrubs, and it comes in a creamy, highly fragrant container. Love Spell and White Tea and Ginger are my favorites. Don't tell my husband I told you but I even made him use it and he liked it! Sssshhhh.....<br /><br />The Goat Milk and Honey lotion is a great addition to the sugar scrub. After you're done scrubbing away, use the lotion for an additional moisturizer. It's not greasy and lasts all day. Try it in Strawberry Kiwi, Day at the Beach or Lilac. There's even an unscented one for those allergic to fragrances.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelke5DUBb9IFVS5RJ-ITUL1YK-v9zrH8cqoYd8S1h1s8Rlk-z1_6GC6jbP_QaQYv3-M7fBivhsvtbzWq28rHKa9w82TrpxSjL4o4_kcLxL_C7Q3YGDEfTXIU-dmxfxmTVZbe9VimP-Sg/s1600/DSC02803.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626703506976580290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelke5DUBb9IFVS5RJ-ITUL1YK-v9zrH8cqoYd8S1h1s8Rlk-z1_6GC6jbP_QaQYv3-M7fBivhsvtbzWq28rHKa9w82TrpxSjL4o4_kcLxL_C7Q3YGDEfTXIU-dmxfxmTVZbe9VimP-Sg/s320/DSC02803.JPG" /></a>Courtney Spino-<a href="http://www.ourmemoriescreated.com/">Our Memories Created</a><br />Courtney is our newest crafter here and I'm very excited to have her creations on display. Her Cucumber Melon bath fizzies are very fragrant and she even makes body washes! They come in colorful sqeeze bottles and are available in fragrances like Citrus, Tangerine and Mandarin Bergamont.<br /><br />In addition to her many bath and body products, she also makes scrapbook frames in any theme and for any occasion.<br /><br /><br /><br />So there's my preview for our Spa and Candle Party on the 22nd. If you're going to miss all the pampering, be sure to visit the crafters websites for more product information.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-53110598796011124422011-06-10T20:08:00.000-07:002011-06-10T20:54:20.659-07:00Crafting for Profit, Part 2<div>Today brings us to Part Two in our crafting for profit series- How are you selling it? This covers everything about your product presentation, from color, variety and yes, even your own salesmanship, which is a subject all in its own but we'll touch on it here. </div><div> </div><div>How you are selling your craft is important. Maybe that's an obvious statement but it truly is an important aspect in achieving sales. Your packaging should be an accent to your craft, not the focal point, tags should be clearly marked and products should be displayed so that customers can easily view them. </div><div> </div><div>As for the craft itself, make sure people know what it is and, if possible, offer variety. Whether selling online, at a show or in a store, you have just a few seconds to make an impression on a customer and grab their attention. Some products have clear uses such as t-shirts and earrings but other crafts are more difficult to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">decipher</span>. If you happen to have a product that needs an explanation, try promoting them through demonstrations or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">examples</span>. </div><div> </div><div>Variety is also important to meet the needs of your customers. You will never have everything for everyone. No matter how much you make, there will always be someone asking for something you don't have, but that's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ok</span>, with some experience you will be able to determine what your most popular products are.</div><div> </div><div>Salesmanship is also a large part of your products. Jewelry, for example, is a common craft item at shows but sometimes the sale has more to do with you than your products. Customers are attracted to positive, friendly and productive sales people, not ones that sit in corners working on puzzle books or playing games on their phones. Be friendly, but don't hover, and helpful but not pushy. </div><div> </div><div>Sometimes we need an outsider to take a look at our product and offer tips for selling it. If you need any help please feel free to contact me at <a href="mailto:raeanne@handmadespecialties.com">raeanne@handmadespecialties.com</a> and I will offer any help I can give. </div>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-70573260282429142422011-06-01T12:46:00.000-07:002011-06-01T13:33:56.581-07:00Summertime Finds<div align="center">I've dabbled in many crafts...paper, wood, photography, crochet, candles, soap, you name it, I've tried it, but I finally found my creative home in polymer clay. I've used in in jewelry, accents on signs, figurines and anything else I can get it to stick! It's fun and functional and I love making crafty new projects with it, and now that it's summer(finally), it's time to take on a few new projects. I'm always looking for something different besides jewelry or figurines and I've been inspired by my fellow <a href="http://www.polymerclaysmooshers.blogspot.com/">Polymer Clay Smooshers </a>members. Here's what they've been up to...<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=202109">Little Jar of Sunshine by Clay it Again</a><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613344692807167570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRtpwp6bX_C4pttge4cr-j-C3k_umSRqh480KXdP8Nei6wq6art1tH5W0KvssIAsK3rrcIG0eDgTGnjyOi5X04XBzY___YLgslkfmnY5k4CLLJfe3DQGXIzdG7HuamAlFZIX1VqjX5Lk/s320/sunshinejar.jpg" /> <br /><p align="center">I absolutely love jars and is this one not the perfect symbol for summer? Store something in it or give it as a gift, either way it makes a great summer item.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2530197">Sculpted Butterfly and Flowers Switchplate by Kneaded Things</a><br /></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613346628812020434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcj1pLcZiYXc_wQOTOC0a37yL6dxVHxBxV7BmnijFxt5AWZpwPBVSmvndmmw7mfCIZy73v3hien-t4JD87KpkI9VvYXc1FrDy4S37cub0WfEhK9WKhzvAVMgcjWA1CYb9LUatFHTS0y4k/s320/wallplate.jpg" /> <br /><p align="center">Another wonderfully different polymer clay creation. Switchplates are pretty boring by most standards but Kneaded Things has done a great job making this plate an eye catching piece. Just look at the detail on that butterfly!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=777538">Funky Metallic Quilt Block Mosaic Box by Into The Dawn</a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXsTk35tFkrIZXtXDJnYI_MzX29jTyWSHu1YWKqWsjVSKFQ9LtjrzmEYZ_XFsAmv8MXYCBftyJsoUohLNcTp-3pndS3gn0eRLTSfDaXVjH8zRZ-NP1ZOAI9Bug1CuFvPWc5Np81S0ox8/s1600/mosaic.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613348653637416082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXsTk35tFkrIZXtXDJnYI_MzX29jTyWSHu1YWKqWsjVSKFQ9LtjrzmEYZ_XFsAmv8MXYCBftyJsoUohLNcTp-3pndS3gn0eRLTSfDaXVjH8zRZ-NP1ZOAI9Bug1CuFvPWc5Np81S0ox8/s320/mosaic.jpg" /></p><br /><p align="center"></a>Just like jars, boxes have endless possibilities and this one is beautiful. You can really appreciate all the time that Into The Dawn has taken to make all those beautiful colors really shine.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=3278173">Teal, Silver and Brown Polymer Clay Crochet Necklace by Handmade Specialties</a> </p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613349716256392578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQYdHpOP_RDHLEKKOvBoD61g9I7J0GRFKySdRYmB6fC7fvo1DG5aRDoDAA9lBnOkZzOgI9a06Oad4Odh20-VQ9d8Dj8gtXsB33Blybklum_99hyh1vVD3jRf_KPJcRPaB5rj3FuzF-pA/s320/crn1.JPG" /> <br /><p align="center">Of course I have to add my own little piece! It's one of my many favorites and the crochet necklace just adds to the summer feel.<br /><br />Don't forget to check out our Smooshers site at <a href="http://www.polymerclaysmooshers.blogspot.com/">http://www.polymerclaysmooshers.blogspot.com/</a> to visit other fantastic polymer clay artists for gifts and inspiration. They've inspired me and I hope they inspire you too! </p>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-54758245320440842542011-05-25T09:58:00.000-07:002011-05-25T10:46:35.175-07:00Crafting for Profit: An IntroCrafting is something I have done all my life, from creating little ornaments as a kid to owning a full blown craft store now as an adult. It's not easy and the best I can do is share with you the basics of what I have learned over the past eleven years. I have a series of crafting subjects to share with you over the next few weeks and I hope that I can give you all some insight into how you can make your own crafting adventure profitable. What I have to share does not encompass every entire aspect of the business of crafting, it's mostly for beginners, but I hope that it will help you along and be a guide for you.<br /><br />So this week we discuss, "What are you Selling?" <br /><br />It's a simple question that I'm sure you have already established but ask yourself again, "What am I selling?" I ask because sometimes you can get pulled in so many directions in your projects that you don't know what you're making anymore. In the past I've dabbled in paper crafts, wood crafts, jewelry, photography and every other craft out there that I lost sight of what I really wanted to focus on, which was my clay projects. Variety is important when crafting but don't spread yourself so thin among all your projects that you can't concentrate on any of them.<br /><br />Another reason why we take a second look at what we make is we have to make sure that it is unique. Jewelry crafters, for instance, have the most difficult time trying to distinguish themselves from their competition. There are so many jewelry crafters out there that it can be hard to distinguish one from the other. So when you're crafting and looking at what you've made, ask yourself why you're different from your competition. Is it style, quality, material or is it you and your unique selling capabilities that makes this product different? <br /><br />Sometimes you don't have to worry about competition as a crafter. Some crafters are so creative that there's very few people who make a similar product. Sounds great right? Well that depends. Is it so different that no one knows what it is or what to do with it? That's when you start to research your product and see whether there is a need for it or if you need to genereate one. I'll give you an example...<br /><br />I held my Spring craft show earlier this month and I had one crafter there that had something I had never seen before. It was a plant hanger that required no nails because it hung using it's own support. Hard to describe, but trust me it was neat. They also had an option to purchase a hammock, using the same hanger, that you could take anywhere and use it, another great idea. They went through the trouble of patenting this idea and they are currently marketing it. So they had a product that was not common but useful, and unique, all examples of how we all need to look at our own creations. Get away from the thinking that "I like it so everyone else will too." Think more about the customer's point of view and what they like to buy and you will see a difference in your sales.<br /><br />Most importantly, never stop trying because doing nothing will get you nothing. Always strive to improve and don't be afraid of change because you never know how it's going to turn out. <br /><br />Agree? Disagree? Let me know! If you have any of your own insights please feel free to share them with me and leave a comment.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-74592686490113937052011-04-15T21:25:00.000-07:002011-04-15T21:36:57.911-07:00I'm Re-inspiredOnce again our store blog has had a long hiatus and once again I'm am determined to keep up with it! <br /><br />I am currently changing the look of the website this month and I think everyone will like the new format. If not, feel free to leave me a comment! We are now selling our products on ArtFire and through them I have been been connected with a fantastic group of polymer clay players who, like myself, love showing off their work. They have re-inspired me to connect and share all of my new pieces with all of you and I encourage you to also check them out at http://polymerclaysmooshers.blogspot.com/. I promise you won't be disappointed!<br /><br />In the meantime, I will continue to keep the website, store and blog updated with new crafts, ideas and anything else I can throw at you! <br /><br />See you soon!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpST81-72opklgs59andKEVEoJoMpJ41VE41IKSy9pWKVMdhXzvN6TgazxXigdbK9pO6anR61twjuCfY8K5yokkqRSkwO8Pt1fFWmmjKj5-n-bXQUNmDst1hlfhVOkhmuYccZyep6vTio/s1600/clay3.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpST81-72opklgs59andKEVEoJoMpJ41VE41IKSy9pWKVMdhXzvN6TgazxXigdbK9pO6anR61twjuCfY8K5yokkqRSkwO8Pt1fFWmmjKj5-n-bXQUNmDst1hlfhVOkhmuYccZyep6vTio/s320/clay3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596035672073323618" /></a>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-81486412537504925652010-07-22T10:30:00.000-07:002010-07-22T12:03:43.905-07:00Encouraging Words for Discouraged CraftersIt isn't easy being a crafter. We haul our equipment and supplies to various craft shows and spend hours creating products in the hopes that someone will buy them. Most people start crafting as a hobby, just something to do in their spare time and expel their creative energy, but some people take it a step further and sell what they have made. <br /><br />The first craft show is always a little wracking. I remember staying up all night making more inventory and only getting three hours sleep. I woke up early the next day, packed up my truck and drove to the gas station to fill up. At the time I had a partner and she needed to charge her phone, so she plugged it into the outlet in the dash. Little did we know that the wiring in my truck was malfunctioning and it ended up starting a fire. So here we are, next to a gas pump, with all of my newly made crafts stored in the truck and there's smoke billowing from the hood. Long story short, the fire department was called, I freaked out and cried, borrowed my husbands truck, composed myself and repacked my stuff. The truck was later towed and fixed.<br /><br />Most first craft show adventures aren't quite as dramatic but it was one of the best learning experiences I ever had. After all the trouble from the beginning of that day and all the work I did to prepare for that first show, I only did "ok." I didn't sell nearly the amount of product that I thought I would and I found that my sales skills were lacking. But after a few more shows I learned about what crafts were popular, what my customers liked and how to talk to them. The more I applied what I learned, the better my sales got. <br /><br />Crafters shouldn't be discouraged from selling their products just because they don't sell right away. It takes time and practice. Don't be afraid to take that step and introduce your product to the public. You should be proud of your creations. Ignore scrutiny, but not constructive criticism because you should never stop trying to improve your product.<br /><br />Selling what you make is incredibly challenging but just as rewarding. Build a positive support system for yourself among other successful crafters and learn from their experiences. Research your competitors and know that as much work that you put into selling your craft is what you will win back in return.<br /><br />Good luck and never stop trying!Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-68463820357504978822010-07-14T10:57:00.000-07:002010-07-14T10:58:34.572-07:00Selling your crafts? Tips for picking the right venue, Part 2Craft shows are a great place to sell handmade goods but are normally available only on the weekends. Traveling to shows also requires extra time to set up and break down the display, not to mention hauling it all around, plus the time to sit all weekend and sell. It’s a system that works for some, but not for all and that’s where selling at stores has its advantages. Stores offer more days of the week to sell, rather than just on weekends, and there is no need to constantly haul display equipment. There are a few things to consider before signing any contract with a consignment shop or store:<br /><br />1. Just as with crafts shows, it is equally important to find out how long the store has been open. Shops that have just opened may have weak sales at first because it takes time for customers to find out that it is there, but monthly rental fees are usually inexpensive in order to entice new crafters to sign contracts.<br />2. Get to know the owner. Do they have any experience owning their own business? How familiar are they with the craft market in their area? How hard do they work to satisfy their customers? Businesses are a reflection of their owner so crafters need to be sure that the owner and any employees are the people they want representing and selling their creations.<br />3. Shop around. Compare rates, display areas, location, and the types of crafts that are sold. If the store sells items that are not handmade, be cautious about selling there. Mass produced items don’t always hold the same quality and craftsmanship that a handmade item does. Most crafters do not want their creations associated with a mass produced product. Depending on the item, it can de-value something that is handmade.<br />4. Avoid shops that let anybody sell anything. These types of stores can end up having a flea market type of environment, which can be a disadvantage to most crafters when it comes to pricing. <br /><br />Whatever venue that a crafter chooses to sell at, the most important thing to consider is the comfort level. Crafters should be comfortable, no matter where they sell. <br /><br />For more info on where to find craft shows in the Waukegan area, visit www.festivalnet.comHandmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-42391672381369550352010-07-01T09:31:00.000-07:002010-07-01T09:35:02.875-07:00Selling your crafts? Tips for picking the right venue, Part 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-YIkGkvLN0UxLtYdN0MPMqPwaxqRh5YSwpMshe5OaXxQGtAodDa1qL5GM4xa_-5cDmdhzpofhyphenhyphenWPOfovCrVLoJHCnbnw7nhEmygUOZqqA08RFysrgerrT5HbLGrdQB4Y6SjZ39aLvKI/s1600/resized_storepics006.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-YIkGkvLN0UxLtYdN0MPMqPwaxqRh5YSwpMshe5OaXxQGtAodDa1qL5GM4xa_-5cDmdhzpofhyphenhyphenWPOfovCrVLoJHCnbnw7nhEmygUOZqqA08RFysrgerrT5HbLGrdQB4Y6SjZ39aLvKI/s320/resized_storepics006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488977075080830050" /></a><br />Crafting has a tendency to increase in popularity when the economy takes a downturn. People have limited funds and look for inexpensive activities to occupy their minds. While crafting usually starts off as an extracurricular activity to burn away excess creativity, it can often become a means of income through the sale of their wares; hence the inspiration for craft shows, stores, fairs and the like. Crafting can be an excellent source of income but selling it in the right venue is even more important. Crafters are easily discouraged when their products don’t sell but many times it’s because they have chosen the wrong venue. Here’s Part 1, on how to pick the right venue for selling crafts:<br /><br />Selling at a craft show<br /><br /><br />1. The number one question to ask when selling at a craft fair is how long the show has been running. It’s important because the longer the show has been running, the more likely people are aware of it and will attend. Longer running shows have built a sizable and loyal clientele. That doesn’t mean that first year shows won’t be successful but there will most likely be more customers at a long running show.<br /><br /> <br /><br />2. The next important question to ask is if vendors will be allowed to the show or if only crafts are allowed. Depending on what a crafter is selling will determine whether this matters or not. Vendors are usually at-home businesses like Mary Kay, Avon and Homemade Gourmet, all reputable companies but they are not crafters. If there is a candle catalog vendor selling their product next to a crafter that makes their own candle, it can make a difference.<br /> <br /><br />3. Find out if the show is juried. A juried show will ensure that there are no duplicates, and therefore very little competition among the crafters. Shows that are not juried end up having too many of one type of craft, usually jewelry, and do not give customers a variety of products to browse through. When customers don’t have a variety of products to browse, they get bored and leave early.<br /> <br /><br />4. Ask about advertising. How is the show being advertised? Where is it being advertised? Are there street signs? Be sure that the show promoters have made some effort to publicize the craft show because it will make a difference in the outcome of the overall sales. More advertising means more customers.<br /><br /><br />Stay tuned for Part 2, for tips on picking the right store to sell crafts.Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-62421073949437478132010-06-21T16:59:00.000-07:002010-06-25T12:49:09.578-07:00Top 5 classic crafts that are here to stayThere are endless types of crafts that creative people from all over the world have produced. Some are created for the home, some are made for kids, and others are made for no other reason than to just exist, and just like any mass produced merchandise, there are some crafts that are just a fad, while others have the staying power to be passed on from generation to generation. Here’s a list of top 5 classis crafts that are here to stay:<br /><br />5. Crochet Blankets: Baby blankets especially. It makes the perfect gift for a new baby and it can come in a full rainbow of colors, but they are not cheap. It takes time and plenty of material to whip up a crochet blanket. <br /><br />4. Candles: Soy has slowly begun to replace the paraffin waxes used in candle making. It’s easier to use, burns cleaner and is better all around for the environment. The fragrances come in an assortment of selections like Grandma’s Apple Pie, Lemon Meringue, and Downy April Fresh. <br /><br />3. Greeting Cards: People need cards to say the things that they cannot say themselves, therefore, card makers exist. A handmade card is much more special than receiving one off the shelf at Walgreens. <br /><br />2. Flower arrangements: It’s not just a matter to sticking some fake flowers in a vase. It takes a creative eye to turn an arrangement into something that a customer can take home and use as a centerpiece.<br /><br />1. Jewelry: Jewelry isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and people, women especially, have too many outfits to accessorize! <br /><br />Visit any local craft show and these items are sure to be found. In the Lake County area, Parkside Summer Arts and Crafts Festival is being held June 26th and Long Gove’s Strawberry Festival is being held on June 25th-27th. Both shows are within 30 minutes of the Waukegan area. <br /><br /><br />Have your own top 5 list? Leave a comment and share it with the rest of us!<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript"><br /><br /> var _gaq = _gaq || [];<br /> _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'UA-9606976-3']);<br /> _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']);<br /><br /> (function() {<br /> var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true;<br /> ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js';<br /> var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s);<br /> })();<br /><br /></script>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-14493646085406581342010-05-28T10:47:00.000-07:002010-06-10T13:15:20.141-07:00Crafts for the Non-Crafter, Part 1: Cheer up that Boring Livingroom!With Spring here and summer right around the corner, your living room deserves a little change! If you're anything like me you don't repaint your rooms every Spring or change the curtains for every season or holiday. I just try and pick the colors and patterns that my husband won't find too "girly" and put up something that looks good all year long. We chose blue and tan for our colors, tan walls, blue trim. The tan is a neutral color so that gives us the flexibility to work with a wide array of colors and patterns and the blue is just an added color bonus.<br /><br />So whether your walls are white, pink, blue, orange or any other color there are a ton of easy projects that you can put together to add that "something different" to your living room, without having to be a crafter and without it costing you an arm and a leg.<br /><br />So here's my quick list of easy projects for the livingroom. If you have any more ideas, please feel free to share with us!<br /><br />1. Get your pictures out of the closet or off your camera! My walls are completely uneven and I just had to cover them up with something so I bought some really inexpensive picture frames and decided that I was going to cover my entire wall with family and vacation photos. I'm not done yet but so far, so good...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6fhJjX7E7RRg4y9ZzZtpXcrOhsSF1S30yI9NjJxNlPL_Sgd0qLM9x0G5e51f47XlVbFa9-miMbH7tJ0RI2OGJztQjQDly9eUK93aKY_soBtA-gVZPXNjRgl3ppCCU1iyzbLvvAPUrG8/s1600/DSC01404.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 247px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 170px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479002188098992338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6fhJjX7E7RRg4y9ZzZtpXcrOhsSF1S30yI9NjJxNlPL_Sgd0qLM9x0G5e51f47XlVbFa9-miMbH7tJ0RI2OGJztQjQDly9eUK93aKY_soBtA-gVZPXNjRgl3ppCCU1iyzbLvvAPUrG8/s320/DSC01404.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />2. Put up some embroidered towels. If you don't like any of the patterns you find, all you have to do is ask the right crafter and I'm sure they will find what you're looking for (*hint hint*). Towels make the perfect accent to any space and don't just have to be used to wipe off your hands. I used mine to put on our side table and under our fish tank because the tank kept scratching the wood.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowFm1CdM9b2HyjJpeq1D2KHiOvBY3pX3_rQw_XoRUf1zUutcCNwz3AAR5bjibwJGmkduPyIx0k70Il5YeWRC49nfqflx_qEk7P5IGwXoaUPMLISkC2yDhwJrWsU8dA6v-ZWFJl9q8YrY/s1600/sunflowers.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 166px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 227px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479003102862913362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowFm1CdM9b2HyjJpeq1D2KHiOvBY3pX3_rQw_XoRUf1zUutcCNwz3AAR5bjibwJGmkduPyIx0k70Il5YeWRC49nfqflx_qEk7P5IGwXoaUPMLISkC2yDhwJrWsU8dA6v-ZWFJl9q8YrY/s320/sunflowers.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />3. Don't just update the look, make it smell better, too! I have two cats and two dogs in my house so I'm always afraid to have an open flame around. So while I love candles, I don't have too many in the house. But what I do have, thanks to Jody from Deja Vu K-9 Korner letting me borrow it, is a candle warmer. In my opinion, one of the best inventions ever. It makes the candle last sooooooo much longer. So instead of buring a candle I can use these wickless candles from my crafter Darlene, from FPO Candle Crafts. Her wicked candles and tarts are awesome too.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWunEQKY1e1frewgp0n9GuLWKLzcLvbBNGFetKdEc3n-sqLVBZHV39Ow6ynh7ZpeUMiHnR33UDCsi8YDoxYZWi-09tR31aGhphk4ZRpXp-ODbN6h2xeKQH_JnLMmd5B4CAMHNbJKmh0iw/s1600/DSC01157.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 153px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479003955978357842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWunEQKY1e1frewgp0n9GuLWKLzcLvbBNGFetKdEc3n-sqLVBZHV39Ow6ynh7ZpeUMiHnR33UDCsi8YDoxYZWi-09tR31aGhphk4ZRpXp-ODbN6h2xeKQH_JnLMmd5B4CAMHNbJKmh0iw/s320/DSC01157.JPG" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />4. Flowers can change the look of any room and they don't even have to be real. I prefer fake myself, no watering and it lasts forever, or as another one of my crafters says "fauxever".<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPAJzjTf2D6m89P3SBzdmjD63a8fZv1wVn1qbo6QKsWJYcRnLs85hUeNUXRD7kbFsr8d9B4gfSjz_a9xVlk6pRt_Zj_10cEkkkm_h7h6-6kiyKwQQbUb7UWtUyi-O6nOAdPWwPQ5H2HU/s1600/pics+008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 178px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 194px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479015021343119170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPAJzjTf2D6m89P3SBzdmjD63a8fZv1wVn1qbo6QKsWJYcRnLs85hUeNUXRD7kbFsr8d9B4gfSjz_a9xVlk6pRt_Zj_10cEkkkm_h7h6-6kiyKwQQbUb7UWtUyi-O6nOAdPWwPQ5H2HU/s320/pics+008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>5. Another picture idea, one of my favorites. I always feel bad about throwing away glass jars, like there's something I should be able to do with them, so I save them for when an idea pops in my head. All you have to do is tape your picture, or pictures if the jar is big enough, to the inside of the jar and use is as a table decoration. It'll be gauranteed to be a great conversation piece.<br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaR75LTJMBCgFbpEvN_3yMOpjsQsNSA-Dm1yqje05ttuCz0BgyYhk0DY1l7XTfxuRPIY1FGY5XmzcumjWBkVZK9_nSbXV9HYYiC9ctRvCONCIlfKIOznBxSyqimW6rY_5XnwCue6d5sU/s1600/pics+015.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 201px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479015491874952834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaR75LTJMBCgFbpEvN_3yMOpjsQsNSA-Dm1yqje05ttuCz0BgyYhk0DY1l7XTfxuRPIY1FGY5XmzcumjWBkVZK9_nSbXV9HYYiC9ctRvCONCIlfKIOznBxSyqimW6rY_5XnwCue6d5sU/s320/pics+015.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>That's all I have for now. I'm sure that as soon as I hit the publish button I'll think of something I should have added, but if there's something that you want to add please share it with the rest of us! </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Free Counters" src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" /></a><br /><a style="FONT-FAMILY: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; COLOR: #000000; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: none" title="Free Counters" href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank">Free Counters</a>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-15017839997354833072010-04-29T08:14:00.000-07:002010-05-22T09:26:57.793-07:00Mother's Day<p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi914yIKtQc20GcSQL94X5dzlqqqfQXALMnkypzoj7a8XlOfzam0E8vZNxhCI2bNbRsdlkUUAQE154rnT-4UA3mIDZbptK_G53fWTHJNqV2oHrCaD5rHR0SHtYwHTW-AAvLrWoa3JDSEPo/s1600/memom.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 317px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468314550656366978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi914yIKtQc20GcSQL94X5dzlqqqfQXALMnkypzoj7a8XlOfzam0E8vZNxhCI2bNbRsdlkUUAQE154rnT-4UA3mIDZbptK_G53fWTHJNqV2oHrCaD5rHR0SHtYwHTW-AAvLrWoa3JDSEPo/s320/memom.jpg" /></a></p><p>I actually thought about not posting this particular blog entry. I thought maybe that I should try to use this opportunity to showcase a few new crafts for Mother's Day, but as much as I want to do that, I couldn't stop thinking about my own mom and that it's really because of her that I started crafting in the first place. It all started off with project books and making ornaments for Christmas. She was into making dolls, wreaths and everything crochet. I always admired her for her crafting talent. Her crafting gene successfully passed to me and now I happily share my creations with others. So as a tribute to my own mother for this Mother's Day, I thought I would share with all of you why my mother is the greatest mother in the whole wide world!<br /><br />Now Mother's Day is just a couple days away and I haven't thought about what to get my own Mother. I keep making and selling things for other people to give to their mothers yet I haven't really stopped to think what I was going to do for my own. She already has everything, and of course, I have to work on Mother's Day. So what do I do?<br /><br />Admittedly, I'm not a great daughter. My mother and I fought when I was a kid...a lot. We never got along. Maybe it was just one of those mother-daughter things where we were just never meant to have peace among each other. I know that this fighting happens between parents and their kids quite often, but it hurts just the same. I'm not a parent, but from what I've witnessed from other parents out there, the job isn't easy. My mother and I would fight over things like my grades (I was an A student, by the way), my room, chores, painting my nails and wearing makeup. We would even fight over things like me wanting to quit ballet lessons when I was twelve and how much I wasn't practicing with my piano.<br /><br />But when I got older, the fights became more about my friends, and what I was doing and where I was going, boys, driving, and all the other things that a parent would fight about with their teenager. The fights were that much worse as I got older and learned how to turn the tables on her. Instead of her always picking on me I realized that she had plenty of faults of her own that I could throw right back at her. What can I say, my mother was a great fighter and I learned from the best.<br /><br />But my mother doesn't back down. She's was always ready for a good fight. I fought with her right up until the time I moved out of the house and got married. I always thought that she was just this horrible person who wanted nothing more than to make my life miserable.<br /><br />Oh how wrong I was. I can feel the tears welling in my eyes as I think about all the horrible things I have done and said to my mother: the time when I realized I was too old to hold my mothers hand, ignoring her when she came to visit me at school, making faces behind her back, talking bad about her to my friends, calling her names, slamming the door in her face, hurting her feelings and just being a bratty daughter in general. Never once did I ever take the time to think about how I was making my mother feel when I would fight with her.<br /><br />It has taken me until now, now that I am married and thinking about having children of my own, what my mother had to endure raising a little brat like me. She was only hard on my grades because she wanted me to do well and be smart, she wanted me to practice ballet and piano so I could have the opportunity to learn new things, and she wanted to know where I was because she cared about me and didn't want me hurt.<br /><br />To this day, my relationship with my mother is far from perfect. We still have a little fight left in us, but I've learned to let most of it go. I figure it's easier loving her for who she is, rather than wasting time picking on all of her faults. She's still my greatest supporter. She sends customers over to my store every chance she gets and we've made it a point to have our nails done together once a month. I even suffer a Saturday night once in a while to play bingo with her. It may not sound like much but I try to take every opportunity I can to spend time with my mother. I appreciate my mother so much more now than I ever have and I love her very much.<br /><br />So I may not know what I'm getting my mom this year, but I know that I would not trade her for anything. She's the best mom ever... that's right ever... and maybe for Mother's Day, that's exactly what I'll tell her. I can't see her arguing with me on that one :)<br /><br />And as a reminder...while I'm going on about appreciating mom's and all, don't forget to remember grandmas, sisters, aunt's, godmothers, friends, in-laws and all the mother's out there. All mom's deserve a little extra love once in a while. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Free Counters" src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" /></a><br /><a style="FONT-FAMILY: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; COLOR: #000000; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: none" title="Free Counters" href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank">Free Counters</a><br /><br /><!-- Include the Google Friend Connect javascript library. --><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.google.com/friendconnect/script/friendconnect.js"></script><br /><!-- Define the div tag where the gadget will be inserted. --><br /><div id="div-4260938901531548922" style="width:276px;border:1px solid #cccccc;"></div><br /><!-- Render the gadget into a div. --><br /><script type="text/javascript"><br />var skin = {};<br />skin['BORDER_COLOR'] = '#cccccc';<br />skin['ENDCAP_BG_COLOR'] = '#e0ecff';<br />skin['ENDCAP_TEXT_COLOR'] = '#333333';<br />skin['ENDCAP_LINK_COLOR'] = '#0000cc';<br />skin['ALTERNATE_BG_COLOR'] = '#ffffff';<br />skin['CONTENT_BG_COLOR'] = '#ffffff';<br />skin['CONTENT_LINK_COLOR'] = '#0000cc';<br />skin['CONTENT_TEXT_COLOR'] = '#333333';<br />skin['CONTENT_SECONDARY_LINK_COLOR'] = '#7777cc';<br />skin['CONTENT_SECONDARY_TEXT_COLOR'] = '#666666';<br />skin['CONTENT_HEADLINE_COLOR'] = '#333333';<br />skin['NUMBER_ROWS'] = '4';<br />google.friendconnect.container.setParentUrl('/' /* location of rpc_relay.html and canvas.html */);<br />google.friendconnect.container.renderMembersGadget(<br /> { id: 'div-4260938901531548922',<br /> site: '15542264546935081179' },<br /> skin);<br /></script>Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-42023513296673190472010-04-28T08:50:00.000-07:002010-05-03T16:14:34.447-07:00Featured Crafter: Laura Wilson with Cheeky Jezebel<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2Q84g273GmYgltyWOaVrLWkeX11brheOTouBw-vVTpXUeZ_eCP34n4yroYijJaQ1jlji9eUPxQ27HafY9Cgk3Okm56Sfzuq5UDZfYtGtm07duhVy5QQhc_1MGm_rT94An5qQqgddIbI/s1600/hippo.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 241px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2Q84g273GmYgltyWOaVrLWkeX11brheOTouBw-vVTpXUeZ_eCP34n4yroYijJaQ1jlji9eUPxQ27HafY9Cgk3Okm56Sfzuq5UDZfYtGtm07duhVy5QQhc_1MGm_rT94An5qQqgddIbI/s320/hippo.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465632582280167346" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Jewelry is incredibly popular in the crafting world. It seems like almost anybody can do it and jewelry crafters have to work very hard to make sure that what they are making and selling is different from all the competition. <br /><br />So when I was contacted by Laura I wasn't so sure that I needed another jewelry person in out store, but one look at her website and I was sold, because Laura actually designs and makes the pendents herself! <br /><br />I wanted to learn more about Laura and her work so of course I just had to interview her:<br /><br />When and why did you start crafting?<br /><br />I’ve loved art and creating things ever since I was old enough to use crayons! Unfortunately I kind of gave it up when it was time to attend college and I definitely wish I hadn’t. My parents have always backed me in my decisions, but seeing my friends going off to well known schools and with all the pressure from my teachers to do the same, I eventually gave up pursuing any artistic dreams. I attended community college, got an associates degree, went through a couple jobs while deciding what college to move on to, but something was missing. Passion. Last summer I really started to draw again and figured out a way to make jewelry from my designs and from there got a website up. It took me awhile to see what truly made me happy but now I wouldn’t give it up for anything. One thing I’ve learned is never let others make you think your dreams aren’t worth trying for.<br /><br /><br />Cheeky Jezebel is a very catchy name, is there a story behind it?<br /><br />The summer I started to take up my art again I would call people “cheeky” when they would say something sassy, so it was stuck in my head around the time I had to think up a name. Actually I believe it started because I saw the old Michael Myers SNL skit where he plays the little boy Simon and calls people “cheeky monkeys”! As far as the name Jezebel I always thought it was a pretty name and it seemed to fit well with “cheeky”. I get asked about the name a lot. I used to try to come up with a more profound answer but really in the end I just liked it and now it’s kind of become part of me :)<br /><br /><br />What is your favorite design and why?<br /><br />Right now it’s probably my baby hippo because he has a face only a mother would love! He has two little teeth sticking out and the big black eyes like a lot of my animal designs do, but to me he looks even more innocent than the rest. When I started working on him in photoshop I honestly thought he would be my least liked of all the animals but as it turns out he’s my favorite!<br /><br /><br />What makes your jewelry different?<br /><br />I think mainly that I use my own drawings. Each piece I create is an idea from my mind put onto paper and then it grows from there. I try to make things fun, colorful, and often cutesy, to look at.<br /><br /><br />What new projects are you currently working on?<br /><br />I’m doing the finishing touches on my “Sammie Cat” necklace. I made one so far and now have to go back and make a few changes. It’s in memory of my cat Sammie who passed away earlier this year. I’d like to eventually make a design of her holding a heart and give the proceeds to an animal charity in her honor. Along with that I’m also attempting to make a bird design with a vintage/kitschy feel, plus just finished the sketches for some dinosaur necklaces and for my “Kissing Koi Fish” necklace. I have a tendency to work on many designs at once.<br /><br /><br />What would be your advice to someone who wanted to start making jewelry?<br /><br />Jump in. Experiment with different kinds of jewelry until you figure out what you enjoy most and what feels right to you. Incorporate your own style and creativity into your work. Don’t be afraid to stand out or go against “the norm”. Above all have fun with it because I think it really does affect the final outcome of each design. If you love what you’ve created I think it’s easier for other people to love as well.<br /><br /><br />What is the biggest challenge you face in the craft market today?<br /><br />The ups and downs. It’s a broad statement but true. It seems like with arts and crafts one week could be the best week ever (financially, more recognition, etc.) but then the next could feel so slow. I’m still learning to push through the days when I feel like nothing is going right because I know they’ll be another day when something great will happen. You really have to have confidence in yourself, and that isn’t always easy because even though in some ways you’re trying to make others happy, in many ways it’s also about making yourself happy.<br /><br /><br />What has been your experience working with Handmade Specialties?<br /><br />I love it. There is such a wide variety of things to see there and so much talent. The owner, Raeanne, is very nice and encouraging. She really tries to get to know the artists and their art so she can tell customers what they’re looking at and some background behind the pieces. It’s the first store that my jewelry is in and so it’s very dear to my heart.<br /><br /><br />See more of Laura's designs at www.cheekyjezebel.com or stop in and visit her display.<br /><br /><br /><br /><!-- Counter Code START --><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" alt="Free Counters" border="0" ></a><br><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" title="Free Counters" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; color: #000000; text-decoration: none;">Free Counters</a><!-- Counter Code END -->Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-89388818577474455742010-04-27T00:31:00.000-07:002010-04-27T09:48:31.004-07:00Work from home? What is it that you do all day?!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfs0qcBC24zWV3kelJblyBIUneofsnCfKPIWw4rEDQxerZqPjpqFEnMsi2iufyMDctBhwvSkzYQkYl80mYr9la1Ip64_3Ihqy98RGSShQPePPKAbRQqBuDpgSt3Fbsog8_Fp-nfVDL4L8/s1600/store.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfs0qcBC24zWV3kelJblyBIUneofsnCfKPIWw4rEDQxerZqPjpqFEnMsi2iufyMDctBhwvSkzYQkYl80mYr9la1Ip64_3Ihqy98RGSShQPePPKAbRQqBuDpgSt3Fbsog8_Fp-nfVDL4L8/s320/store.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464685313761038690" /></a><br />I wouldn't exactly say that I work from home, but if you've seen my storefront you know that there is an apartment above it. That's where I live. So I don't work from home, but it's pretty close. <br /><br />I've been inspired to write this little entry for the simple fact that there is a misconception that just because you work from home, that work is easy. I'll admit, there is an advantage to living above my storefront. For lunch, I can just run upstairs and make myself a quick sandwich, I don't have to worry about not being able to let out dogs on time, and if I need to switch the laundry around I can. <br /><br />But the hardest part about working so close to home is that you're never away from work. I may be able to pop upstairs for a moment or two but the majority of my time is spent working downstairs in the store. <br /><br />Working so close to home has prompted many people to ask me what I do all day or how I do it. First of all, let me say that owning your own business is not a job, it's a lifestyle. Everything I do revolves around my business, just ask my husband. Our outings together usually include getting clay from Hobby Lobby or getting cups and spoons at Sam's Club. <br /><br />So what is it that I do all day? Easy...work! If you stop in and see me sitting at the desk at my computer, I'm not playing, I swear. Believe it or not, I do use my computer for more than just facebook and games... :) My day usually starts off with cleaning and general maintenance, then I tackle the paperwork. When that gets finished, I try to complete a few new crafts in between answering phone calls and helping the customers that come in to shop. I also take the time to update the website, look for new crafters and advertise my store.<br /><br />How do I do it? Some days I'm not sure but I think it has something to do with the fact that I refuse to stop trying and I refuse to let anyone stop me. I've always wanted to own my own business and I'm not letting go of it for anything. It's not easy owning your own business but it's the challenges that come with it that I love. It's really exciting for me to get an idea and put it into action and watch the results, whether it's making and selling necklaces or when I get a great response when I hold an event. It's hardest to think about how I do it when things don't go right, like when something I made turns out to not be a great seller. But that's what business is all about, you can't have success without failure and everyday I go to work ready to face that challenge.<br /><br />My biggest inspiration comes from my crafters. I work really hard to support my crafters and help them sell their creations. I truly enjoy watching a crafter succeed, knowing how difficult and disheartening this whole crafting business can be. <br /><br />So if you were wondering just how and why I do what I do, hopefully that's explains some of it. I'm sure I could go on and on about the how's and why's but I think I'll save that for another posting. Instead, I'll leave you with a few tips for those who own a home business or are thinking of owning one:<br /><br />This may sound like something you should already know but I feel as though I have to say it anyway: Take your business seriously. If you don't, neither will anyone else.<br /><br />Be sure that you have your own private workspace. Kids, spouses, and to-do lists can be very distracting.<br /><br />Dress like you're going to work. If you have any visitors, they will take you more seriously if you're dressed for work and not just lounging around in your pajamas.<br /><br />Don't let friends and family become distractions. Because you work from home, it is most likely a more relaxed environment compared to a corporate office. Friends and family may want to stop by without notice or call and chat with you. Post your work hours so that they know when you are available. <br /><br />Most importantly, don't be afraid to make time for yourself. Working from home can make you feel like you're always at work. Go to the gym, take a walk, visit with some friends or take on a hobby. You can get burned out by work so find something you enjoy to maintain a healthy balance between your work and home life.<br /><br /><!-- Counter Code START --><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" alt="Free Counters" border="0" ></a><br><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" title="Free Counters" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; color: #000000; text-decoration: none;">Free Counters</a><!-- Counter Code END -->Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-87675474412630959642010-04-01T08:29:00.000-07:002010-04-02T09:49:15.022-07:00Featured Crafter: Kristen VandeBerg, Kristen's Kreations<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UtNdP9Zu-3GqDW7bXWDLvVemK-7yD1NTzpxzzlhQFLJGxvEtGTRXeekQQ_yUOfleXjlJl1QeK_eRbQTS1fVYIDI01N9KUXEXw4Hv1eQ9YCIEiPpHnV5DpTC5P4zfoyTMU8OiLe08xaU/s1600/pics+026.JPG"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UtNdP9Zu-3GqDW7bXWDLvVemK-7yD1NTzpxzzlhQFLJGxvEtGTRXeekQQ_yUOfleXjlJl1QeK_eRbQTS1fVYIDI01N9KUXEXw4Hv1eQ9YCIEiPpHnV5DpTC5P4zfoyTMU8OiLe08xaU/s320/pics+026.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455581321351800786" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMTwVk3jR0G33zELKgYryon5GOxjZpnq_PUyuDMuT8tcVJmPt3T5cGdELRQSgVlt48lobkWNkVaATLZgrc9BfnColtq_32NActw1G7siniW-tPUBVNF8caJaOiZ26wgJYog_dx64A1Cg/s1600/pics+027.JPG"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMTwVk3jR0G33zELKgYryon5GOxjZpnq_PUyuDMuT8tcVJmPt3T5cGdELRQSgVlt48lobkWNkVaATLZgrc9BfnColtq_32NActw1G7siniW-tPUBVNF8caJaOiZ26wgJYog_dx64A1Cg/s320/pics+027.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455580970242650066" /></a><br />I have had the pleasure of working with Kristen, of Kristen's Kreations for over a year now. I met her at a local craft show and saw she had made greeting cards and bath baskets, which was needed in our store. Soon after our meeting, she graciously agreed to sell her crafts with me and has had her items on display ever since. <br /><br />Kristen is a local crafter from Antioch and makes beautiful handmade cards and bath sets that include bath salts and soaps. She has cards for every occasion and holiday in a variety of styles and even has some very handy boxed sets of thank you's, birthday, and assorted cards. <br /><br />One of the reasons why Kristen's cards are so special is that she spends the time to color them. All of that coloring in the lines you learn as a kid has definitly paid off for her because her cards are beautiful! <br /><br />So in order to give everyone a better idea of the how's and why's of what Kristen makes, she let me interview her: <br /><br /><strong>Can you describe the types of crafts you make?</strong><br />I make greeting cards for all occasions using a variety of materials, including stamps, stickers and buttons, markers, watercolor pencils and chalks just to name a few. <br /><br /><strong>When and why did you start crafting?</strong><br />I started crafting as a child with my grandmother, and it’s something that I continue today because I find it an enjoyable way to pass the time and because I like to make things that make other people happy.<br /><br /><strong>What made you choose card making as your crafting medium?</strong><br />I chose card making because I was tired of buying the same old boring cards at the store all the time, and wanted to give something different. I am constantly coming up with new ideas, and have a lot of fun making them come to life.<br /><br /><strong>What new projects are currently working on?</strong><br />I am starting to learn scrapbooking, and am working on a scrapbook for my 6mo old son.<br /><br /><strong>What would be your advice to someone who wanted to start making cards?</strong><br />Take a class or two at a local scrapbooking store. They definitely helped me in learning some different techniques and are a great source of information. Then, buy some paper and a few stamps and go for it!<br /><br /><strong>What is the biggest challenge you face in the craft market today?</strong><br />The biggest challenges are to design a product that is different from what is sold in stores and by other crafters, and to price it so that people will want to buy it.<br /><br /><strong>What has been your experience working with Handmade Specialties?</strong><br />I’ve had great experiences working with Handmade Specialties. Raeanne is a wonderful person and has become a good friend in the year that I’ve known her. I recommend the store to anyone who is looking for unique, handmade gifts.<br /><br /><br />For more of Kristen's Kreations visit her display in our store or online at http://kristens.kreations.tripod.com/index.html. <br /><br />Kristen also teaches classes on card making so if you are interested, give us a call!<br /><br /><!-- Counter Code START --><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" alt="Free Counters" border="0" ></a><br><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" title="Free Counters" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; color: #000000; text-decoration: none;">Free Counters</a><!-- Counter Code END -->Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-63937505496807123042010-03-12T08:39:00.000-08:002010-03-19T09:59:52.463-07:00How and where to Buy HandmadeOnce upon a time, everything was handmade. Now? Not so much. Yes, I do buy from Walmart, Target, and many other stores that sell items made in foreign countries, but what can I say? I can't argue with with their low prices and I'm not wealthy enough to fulfill my purchasing needs all from specialty shops.<br /><br />I know I'm not alone. Most people would rather buy their gifts and decor from the least expensive place available. I know I have fallen victim to that thinking, but there really is something special about buying something, and getting something, that was handmade. Thankfully, the handmade market is in an upswing. Our recently fallen economy has insipred many to partake in the land of crafting and sell their wares as a way of making some extra income. Because of that, there are many new, and not to mention trendy, crafts that are now available.<br /><br />So where do we buy these great crafts and what do we look for? Many churches and schools hold craft shows for a fundraising activity. You can find many types of crafters at this type of show, including non-craft items, along with many home based catalog businesses. Larger shows, usually over 100 booths, will be juried. Normally, these shows only allow handmade crafts.<br /><br />So what the difference? You can find many types of crafts at any show, large or small, but larger shows will generally offer more variety because of the jurying process. Smaller shows are less crowded and can give you the chance to talk to the crafter where larger shows can be so busy that you often don't get that chance.<br /><br />Craft malls and boutiques are another great place to search for crafts. For instance, I only let handmade items in my store. If someone is selling candles with me, I make sure that it is handmade, not just deocrated. Most craft malls will be the same. We are few and far between but it is worth the trip just to see what ideas people have been able to come up with. The plus side of a craft mall or boutique? You can visit when you want to, not just when there's a show. You can shop on your own schedule.<br /><br />Now what to look for...well, that really depends on what you want, but I do have a few tips on how to get the most for your money. First of all, crafters know that people are closely monitoring their spending habits and are generally spending less, so crafters have priced their wares accordingly. They have made sure that their items are reasonable, and you will find that many are competitively priced with the big chain stores. Many crafters will also offer price breaks when you purchase a certain quantity of an item, so look for pricing information in their booths.<br /><br />It is every crafter's dream to tbe able to make a living by selling the items they make. They truly appreciate every customer they have so support your local crafter as much as you can. You might be surprised at all the great things you'll find.<br /><br /><br /><!-- Counter Code START --><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" alt="Free Counters" border="0" ></a><br><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" title="Free Counters" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; color: #000000; text-decoration: none;">Free Counters</a><!-- Counter Code END -->Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2260028440498933730.post-80312629783042494922010-01-15T10:36:00.000-08:002010-03-19T10:00:09.139-07:00The Blog is Back! and lessons learned...Well here it is, my brand new blog for Handmade Specialties! Here you can read about all the new stuff happening at my store and just about anything else that pops into my mind (I promise to keep it crafty related-mostly).<br /><br />As for lessons learned over the past few months since my last post, I definitly have a few. First of all, if you at all value your blogs SAVE THEM!!! I recently upgraded my website services to a merchant account. I got tired of looking at the advertising on my pages. When I did, the blog that was connected to my old account was lost! So I may try to rewrite some of the info I had posted before.<br /><br />So on to another lesson...prioritize, prioritize, prioritize. I can't say it enough, prioritize! As a business owner I am not only the creator and manager, I am also the janitor, the book keeper, the sales clerk, the ice cream scooper, the dishwasher, the webmaster, the writer, and so on and so on. Not only do I have to deal with the business aspect of my life but my personal one as well where I perform the amazing duties of the dog walker, the floor cleaner, cook, book keeper (yup, here too), and oh yeah, wife! I also have to be all knowing so when questions like, "Hey honey, where's my shirt?" and "I can't find the string cheese," come about I have the answer. Now it sounds like I'm complaining but I'm not. I'm proud to say that I have an amazing husband who is very helpful around the house and we try to organize our daily life by prioritizing. It doesn't always work but hey, we can't all be perfect!<br /><br />So what am I prioritizing this week? To be honest, I'm not sure. There's too much to do. Some lesson learned, huh? But I know what I will do. I'm going to make a list of all the things I need to do and then I'm going to do them. I'll let you know how it goes.<br /><br /><!-- Counter Code START --><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/count.php?page=392820&style=miniscu&nbdigits=9&reloads=1" alt="Free Counters" border="0" ></a><br><a href="http://www.e-zeeinternet.com/" title="Free Counters" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; color: #000000; text-decoration: none;">Free Counters</a><!-- Counter Code END -->Handmade Specialtieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07427404362510014552noreply@blogger.com0