Look around, swap, read the blog and share. I specialize in handmade gifts, unique one of a kind jewelry and accessories, and bath and body relaxation accessories. Spend some time browsing my links, and if you find something you want... Email me and mention Multiply and I will revise your invoice to grant a 10% discount..
Thanks for stopping by. Feel free to comment and share some ideas with me!
As the weekend begins I thought I should get busy and post some of my finished items in my shop! So, I have started adding them to Etsy and Artfire, but I really wanted to show them off here, too! Plus, with all the linky party's going on this week (and wow! I saw a lot when I was browsing my favorite blogs this morning!) it might be fun to post a few on the blog so I can participate in the parties, too! I am leaving the links for all the parties I am participating in this week so you can join in the fun, too!
So, here is my new necklace which I decided to call Serenity- why? Because the hues of blue just calm. When I ran across this bead mix at Joann's fabric a few weeks ago something compelled me to buy them. Normally I go for the pearl shapes or strings- rarely a mix of beads in several bags. I just really loved the colors, and they seemed to emit tranquil moments to me. So.... here she is- beaded wire crochet with some silver charms and a macrame organza ribbon, wire, chain,etc. A mixed up mash of jewelry findings in one piece- what'ya think?
And, I finally took the time to add my "Green with Envy Earrings" to the shop! I had shown these when I was still finishing them up, but I had to change the fishhooks out so they would hang right and then I put a slip stitch around the entire circle to give a more "finished" look-
And so that is what I have finished in the past 2 weeks! How about you? Show off your latest creations at some of the following parties! I will be there, and I hope to see you there, too! And now I am off to make soap! (after I study, clean the house, and take my little one to the library-!!)
Well, have you tried the LInky Love on Facebook? You post your links on someone's discussions tab, they then do the same to yours? Along the way, others who join the discussions follow others in the discussion? You get to see lots of others facebook fan pages and grow your Friends list? Cool idea, right? I have done it a few times, and found some pretty interesting facebook pages... But, I really enjoy reading blogs! I love reading what others are up to and keeping up with what they are working on, their inspirations, the drama of everyday life- not to mention, learning from tutorials and patterns. So, what if we tried linky love in the form of a blog? I thought it would be more of a "Get to know your followers" feature! Sometimes people start to follow one of my blogs, and I don't realize that someone new is here until weeks later. I thought that I would just randomly browse through the followers list each month and choose one of my followers, then explore their blog, explore any other links, and come back here to share it all with you... Sound good? I have found more interesting blogs by being led to one, checking their followers thumbnails or brief intro's, and then just clicking- forwarding to a new and unknown blog- it is like playing the lottery! You never know what you are going to get- something interesting (a jackpot!) or something that I am completely unfamiliar with (another jackpot!)- so, really it is a win! win! situation. Thus, I think the Getting to know your Followers feature will be a lot of fun! Anyone else doing something like this on their blogs? Participating in linky love? Doing any kind of exploration of new people who may be able to teach you something new? If so, share your ideas/ links and what you are doing here!
So, look for the new feature starting next week! It will be completely random- and of course, I will notify you (or ask permission) before posting any information here! The only real qualification is you have to be a follower! I might throw a giveaway or prizes in once in a while, too! Just for giggles and grins!
Scrapgirls has some awesome digital download freebies just added, too! http://store.scrapgirls.com/product/21621/ And take a second to look at the new page I just added for linky parties-blog hops- You can find it at http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com you can find the cool parties I have been linking up to- you will find some awesome inspiration and great new blogs! There is also a giveaway page that I just updated that lists all the cool items being offered up from various sponsors and bloggers! If you are hosting something, and would like to add it here, just leave me a comment! I would love to join in, and always happy to promote a fellow crafter/artisan!
Now.... On to what I have been working on...
I just finished my mixed fiber poncho which also acts as a shawl, cowl, scarf, etc... Created from some fibers/yarns/mixes and one size fits all. There are strategically placed buttons, so you can wear it a ton of ways... It measures 70" X 19" so you have plenty of room to wrap it different ways! Make sure to stop over at macrochet.com and see what every one else has been up to this week, too!
Scrapgirls has some awesome digital download freebies just added, too! http://store.scrapgirls.com/product/21621/ And take a second to look at the new page I just added for linky parties-blog hops- you can find the cool parties I have been linking up to- you will find some awesome inspiration and great new blogs! There is also a giveaway page that I just updated that lists all the cool items being offered up from various sponsors and bloggers! If you are hosting something, and would like to add it here, just leave me a comment! I would love to join in, and always happy to promote a fellow crafter/artisan!
Now.... On to what I have been working on...
I just finished my mixed fiber poncho which also acts as a shawl, cowl, scarf, etc... Created from some fibers/yarns/mixes and one size fits all. There are strategically placed buttons, so you can wear it a ton of ways... It measures 70" X 19" so you have plenty of room to wrap it different ways! Make sure to stop over at macrochet.com and see what every one else has been up to this week, too!
A few months back I began to participate in Seed Buzz, which is a program that allows you to promote others' blogs by discussing similar topics and linking to the blogs that you want to promote on Seed Buzz. Well, unfortunately I had not had the opportunity to promote too many, as I struggled to connect to the posts that I browsed through. That was, until today... Today I read an amazing blog post on how crafting and creative time can help one cope with depression. It inspired me to write about this concept. The blog is awesome and so insightful. Sometimes hearing someone else's story, helps you better understand your own. You can read it at http://torontocloseknit.blogspot.com/2010/10/lisas-story.html Now, we have all seen the old black and white movie with Jack Nicholson, "One flew over the cuckoo's nest" and watched as the patients in the film did "arts and crafts" with Popsicle sticks. According to this 70's flick, arts and crafts, in any form, could be soothing to the soul. I think that hypothesis can be considered fact today. Art can help you find the inner peace that you may need at any given moment, it also gives you an opportunity to express yourself - your real self- without threat of repercussion. How often do you mull over the "things you should have said" in your last argument with your husband? How many times have you thought, "I wish he could know how that makes me feel?" We all have words or thoughts that are lost at the moment, but later we regret not having that final say. Art offers you that final say. You can put your feelings, your fear, your anger, whatever... out there for everyone to see. Art is subjective, so how someone else may interpert your work may be completely different than your intent.
As a student of psychology, and finally wrapping up my Masters in Child and Adolescent Development, I have had the priviledge to examine a multiple of theories on mental states, emotion, motivation, and behavior. One theme that is often the common thread in the area of psychology is the ability of one to perceive themselves as worthwhile and having purpose, being appreciated or needed, and finding a sense of content with who they are. Art can help you find your way down that long and winding road. Depression is one of the most misunderstood disorders, because again, the symptoms present in a subjective, very personalized manner to each individual who suffers from it. Journaling has long been recommended as a therapeutic activity for individuals suffering from depression. Art is similar to journaling in that what you create at any given moment reflects how you feel at that moment. Have you ever started a project on Monday, then resumed work on Thursday and the piece evolve into something completely different? That happens to me all the time.... But, the way I felt on Monday has also evolved into something completely different by Thursday-
Art can be extremely beneficial to someone experiencing situational depression due to a death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, et. It allows a personal reflection on the situation and an opportunity to express how you feel about that situation without the constraints you may normally feel bound to. When I first learned of my son's uniqueness, Asperger's syndrome, it was an internal grieving for me. I had to face the realization that he was not going to be the child that sits on my lap and hugs me (like most mommy's want), he was not going to be the outgoing, social, class president that I had envisioned. But, as a mother and as his advocate, I could never let that sadness show. Instead I had to positively spin it and always focus on the strengths such as his very advanced intelligence, his sense of order, his ability to see more in every literal interaction than I could even imagine. I also had no one to share the daily stress and apprehension I felt with every change that occurred.
Over Christmas when most families are having parties and spending time with family, I had to plan out every minute of the day. I had to ensure that we limited the time we had in small areas with large amounts of people, I had to foresee situations where there would be a lot of noise, I had to ensure that the routine we do every day could still be done, along with all the extras and additions the holidays bring. I became so overwhelmed that I would have to go into the bathroom and lock the door so I could take five minutes to cry- and then put the patient, big smile back on, and attempt to control the environment to avoid him becoming overwhelmed and stressed. Daily, I have to let words and frustrations roll off my back when I am confronted with someone unfamiliar with the syndrome. I have to let go of the anger I feel when someone says, "He is spoiled!", or when someone says, "I don't think any child should take medications. The doctors just push that on parents these days." I have to take a deep breath and just acknowledge that these people could not possibly understand my life, or his, and let it go. Some times it feels like a constant juggling act of balance between my full time job, my classes, my son, and my husband- with little or no time for me in there. That is how art saves me. Every single day.
I encourage- No, let me CHALLENGE, those who feel emotionally dominated to pick up a tool- any tool- and attempt expression of what they are experiencing. You can use a paintbrush, a needle and thread, a pair of scissors and bottle of glue- even a stick to draw in the sand.... but let yourself have your say. You do not need a degree in design, you don't need an arsenal of equipment- you merely need a few minutes of time to interact with your tool and substrate. Begin with the idea that your work is to document this moment in time, so you can later reflect- don't burden yourself with the idea that someone may see your work. Let the moment be an experience of liberation for those emotions you have tucked inside. You will be surprised how refreshed and renewed you feel.... Who knows? You may find that you love to work with your hands and be driven by a passion to pursue it further-
Here are a few of my recent works- As you can tell, I am all over the place... I love creating jewelry, I adore crochet and fun fibers, even crocheting wire and beads... And when I have a real story to tell... I work in mixed media on canvas or small re purposed items.
I would love to hear how Art has touched your lives... or how you perceive it as a mode to emotional stability
You can link to this post, you can share my work with your readers if you provide a link back to this blog, you may not recopy my work or redistribute the method of my work, or advertise my work as yours. You may utilize this article as a resource or as part of your post- but please provide a link back to my blog!
One of my greatest passions is creating fun, fiberlicous scarves and fashion accessories. My beginning crochet days kept me in a more conservative arena, but once I learned the basic stitches and skills needed for crochet I began to explore the wonderful variety of fibers and yarns. Color is always an enticing factor, but the feel, texture, and appearance of the yarn is what really pulls me in. I have been fascinated the past few years as more variety has hit the yarn aisles of my favorite stores. The idea of mixing fun colors with rich textures is so appealing- I would love to learn how to spin and create my own fibers, but for now, I am content with utilizing a mixture of blends from my yarn stash in a project, and even holding several varying strands together as I stitch. Here are a few of my favorites from this past year:
Considering my fascination with creating scarves, I thought I would explore all the ways I can show my customers to wear them... But, as I started to write the post, I thought.. Hmmm.... I bet someone has already done this. Guess what? They have! And here are a few - which is great, because I had never thought of some of these ideas... So, thanks you fashion savvy bloggers who created these posts- Check them out yourself by clicking the links below!
What's your passion of the moment? What are you currently working on? Have you found something awesome you would like to share? Well, leave me a comment! I would love to hear from you...
One of my greatest passions is creating fun, fiberlicous scarves and fashion accessories. My beginning crochet days kept me in a more conservative arena, but once I learned the basic stitches and skills needed for crochet I began to explore the wonderful variety of fibers and yarns. Color is always an enticing factor, but the feel, texture, and appearance of the yarn is what really pulls me in. I have been fascinated the past few years as more variety has hit the yarn aisles of my favorite stores. The idea of mixing fun colors with rich textures is so appealing- I would love to learn how to spin and create my own fibers, but for now, I am content with utilizing a mixture of blends from my yarn stash in a project, and even holding several varying strands together as I stitch. Here are a few of my favorites from this past year:
Considering my fascination with creating scarves, I thought I would explore all the ways I can show my customers to wear them... But, as I started to write the post, I thought.. Hmmm.... I bet someone has already done this. Guess what? They have! And here are a few - which is great, because I had never thought of some of these ideas... So, thanks you fashion savvy bloggers who created these posts- Check them out yourself by clicking the links below!
What's your passion of the moment? What are you currently working on? Have you found something awesome you would like to share? Well, leave me a comment! I would love to hear from you...
Well, this is a busy week for me! My classes will be starting up soon, and it's almost back to school time for my son.... So, I thought for the next week I would focus on some smaller projects. Although smaller, it turns out, does not necessarily mean "quicker". I have been forming a relationship with the lighter guage wires, crochet threads, and beaded crochet techniques the past month, and so this week I was inspired to continue working on earrings. I finished a pair late last week, and here is a pair I finally finished Tuesday evening, Butterfly Wheels. These are created with size 5 silver crochet thread, pink pastel beads, and the transparent butterfly bead. Each wheel measures 2 X 2" and from the top of the wheel to the bottom are 3.7". I created this pattern, so if anyone would like me to share, just let me know. I entered these into the Work in Progress Wednesdays McLinky Blog Party over at macrochet.com
This week I thought it would be fun to participate in a "Work in Progress Wednesday Blog Roll"! You can nab the details at macrochet.blogspot.com
So, the idea is to post about what you are working on right now... Well, I have started quite a few new jewelry projects. I have also begun working on some new patterns that I have been debating on selling in my shop, but I think I am going to go ahead and give it a try- so I have been taking pictures, pictures, pictures of each step I take in creating some of my projects. But, for this Work in Progress Wednesday I am going to show off my latest ring. This is a beaded, crochet wire ring.
The wire is doubled over to ensure extra strength, then hammered out. There is a set of stitches that I do across the back of the beading, also, to keep from having any loose wires protruding and to avoid the beads working loose. I also go around the entire flower and feed a single wire in and out of the beads to further strenthen the previous crochet stitches and to give it a "finished look". So, what do you think?
My two favorite guys putting the tree up! They didn't need mom's help this year!
Learning the about Christmas from a five year old can be a humbling experience!
Still in awe of how a tree smells...
With Christmas comes gifts, right? Well, I have focused this holiday season on the idea of handmade, and less commercialism. I think I must have done a good job at this, because last night as we were watching television, me with a skein of yarn and crochet hook in hand, my son came into the living room carrying a tub of crayons and markers in one hand, a stack of paper in the other. He sat on the floor and said, "Don't look at me mom. I am making Christmas". He diligently worked on several papers and then put them into his portfolio (an old lap top case I had given him a while back for his art supplies). Later I noticed he had gathered several of his toys and was trying to tape them to the papers he had made. I asked him what he was doing, and he said, "I am giving my toys as presents. You said that Christmas is about giving something special to someone else. These are all my specialist toys." I thought I would cry. I asked him if he was sure, and explained that once he gives them then they are no longer his. He said he was taking them to school for his friends. "I have lots of toys. My friend XXXXX doesn't have any toys at the motel". My son has several children in his school that live in the emergency shelter in town. This shelter is actually a motel that the red cross pays for in emergency and homeless situations for women and children. After he said this, I did cry. I could not believe my five year old had such a huge heart. Today he told me that he has made a present for everyone but he doesn't know how to wrap them. So, my husband is grabbing some tissue paper and going to help him with this task later today.
I have thought about this all night, and wondered what can I do to keep that Christmas spirit all year long? How can I become more like this amazing, little boy? First thing this morning, I jumped on the web to see what organizations are out there that could use my help or donations of handmade items? And... Wow!... there are a lot. So, I decided that I would commit to a few places and spend a portion of my time creating for giving. I stumbled across this truly inspirational concept of creating slippers for women and children in shelters, the Pink Slipper Project. Just what I was looking for. So, I am starting this afternoon- but I wanted to share the information with those of you out there who are also feeling the holiday spirit, and hoping to not lose sight of the meaning once the sparkle, glitter, and lights come down.
I also thought that I would start a special page for "crafting for a cause" where you can link up to organizations that need your skills and talents! You can find this at http://www.mommytyme.org/Sellers-Resources.html It is mid way down on the page, right now. I hope to make a complete page just for this once I collect some more resources. Here is what is great about the idea, you do not have to donate a lot of money, commit to a ton of time, etc. As mom's, we all have crazy lives, and in this economy- some of us struggle to keep our own head above water, without a lot left over to spare. But, for those crafty souls out there, this can be a way to help with materials you may already have, and by blocking off just a little time each week that you would have spent creating anyway- you are making a difference. So, Crafty and Creative Minds out there, let's lead by example, and work towards holding on to the meaning of this holiday season all year long-
You can also come here every Saturday for an update of Crafting for a Cause, find new links, new services, new places to share your skills. Or maybe you are in need of help? Well, hopefully this will give you a place to find that resource.
So, here is my first project goal- Pink slippers! Check out more here or look to the side bar for the informational widget on the Pink Slipper Project:
they have a standard pattern you can use for knitting or sewing- and they accept variations on the patterns, as well.
If you have a cause or know of an organization that could use some creative and crafty hands to donate themselves, please comment below with the links/blog/URL/email/etc. I will gladly add it to the pages I am creating, and if I have the skill to help out- I will donate it! I would love to hear about your projects, ideas, etc. and how you feel the creative community can make a difference!
I am infatuated with mixed media artwork- I have always mixed a little of this with a little of that, but my family refers to my outcomes as "Valerie's version". Now, there are times when I try this with cooking, and it does not turn out so well... and a few times I have tried it with things like hair color and the effects were a little less than what I had hoped. I was so in "awe" the first time I picked up a Cloth Paper Scissors magazine at Joann Fabrics- I could not believe the astounding works that were in there. Next came Sommerset Studios, and WOW! I was hooked.
So, at my Etsy shop you will find bath and body items, crochet items, gifts, jewelry... really, a little bit of everything- Late at night, when everyone has gone to sleep... I creep into the den where I have my "art table" set up, and begin dabbling with a little bit of everything I have managed to acquire over the years, and attempt to find a way it all can mesh and be meaningful to me.
So, here is one of my latest works.... "Dream". It stemmed from the word and grew into an image that I had in my head, and it really turned out very close to what I had imagined. That is how I am inspired, Words. I read how some are inspired by nature, or music, or events, a poem, etc. For me, it is usually a word,phrase, or quote that evokes a strong image for me. And then I use that image and try to find a way to lay it out into something tactile. Sometimes it may become a canvas, a card, or a scarf, sweater, even a bar of soap. But, everything I create started as words either heard or read. So, this one is Dream. And for this tutorial I am creating layers and layers of background. I won't get through the whole thing in one post, so I will break it down into a few posts. It takes a lot of time in between drying spells... And this project actually took me about a week, you can do it quicker if you work steady- but as a mom, in the midst of my finals for grad school, and working full time...I do not get the opportunity to enjoy a steady creative session-
Here are some fun techniques I used to get texture with my backgrounds... Actually, it is a little mix of several different techniques (maybe I got a little carried away, eh?)
First, I wanted a soothing but interesting piece that would go great in a bedroom- something tranquil, but left you in a state of "hmm..." as you drift off to sleep. So, here is how I did it, and I am a novice- so there may be more detailed, term appropriate, advice and tutorials out there. I am not adhering to any specific theory or composition theme- it was more of a thought I had, that evolved and grew a little each day until I was happy with my results!
So, here we go...
First I picked out my "focal point"-for this project I wanted something that represented the idea "be content with yourself" and with that inner peace you can enjoy moments to "dream". It sounds kind of cheesy when I write it, but I really wanted to say " you are perfect the way you are, enjoy your moments of life, feel tranquil in who you are". For some reason the "dress maker mannequin" stamp that I have, seemed to be the perfect anchor for the image I wanted to create. I also have this cool square stamp of a face and it was just right to create an abstract person- So, after deciding on the focal I created the background for my stamps
The next thing I did was: I mixed some blue water color paint into a spray bottle with a tad bit of water, sprayed my watercolor paper lightly. Once dry, I stamped it with my images. Let that dry, cut them out and set aside.
Then: I started on the canvas background. Now this canvas was originally another piece I had created of a tree and bird - it had been decoupaged and layered with book print. To cover this I put on a thick layer of gesso. The tree form kept showing through, so I textured it. Here is where the fun comes in...
After the gesso was dry, I added a layer of glue and water mixture, brushed it on in all directions. Then I layered different textures such as yarn scraps, napkins, thick cardstock torn scraps, etc. Let this dry.
Next I chose a watercolor palette of purple, so I blended inward with blue on one side, slowly blending to purple and red on the other side, blending into purple. I then softened it with white all over the canvas- this created a light pink, light blue with a hint of purple. I still was not satisfied with the texture, though...
Next I layered on sheets of tissue paper in strips of pink, blue with a silver star pattern, and pink. Now I was beginning to see what I had imagined... Allowed this to dry. Then I mixed a little gesso with some of my watercolor paints (with a dip of water to make it nice and thin) and painted over it some more...
Next I started embellishing. I used book pages torn into strips to outly the edges (a frame type look), I cut out images from old cards, etc. and layered around the edges. I used some embellishments from Girl Papiere packaged die cuts that I had in my stockpile, but you could really use anything you have that fits the concept you are working on. I used matte modge Podge
Modge podge some more, add a little gesso here and there- then when this was dry I moved to the next stages .... but, I will get to those next post because this part of it took me about a week to accomplish- between multiple layers, drying, cutting, etc.
And while I was letting this dry, I also started on some "mixed fiber scarves"- that I just think are so much fun to make and wear... So, make sure you come back for those, too!
However, in the meantime, let me share some awesome sites I have stumbled on lately. I spend a lot of time browsing, studying, and attempting to learn from others... then, there are times I run across something and think.."wow! that is amazing- I wish I could do that" and these are some of those links!
I have tried a few ideas like the one below in the past, however, this tutorial really does a great job in simplifying and making it seem fun (my attempts were not so fun! I think I focused on making jewelry instead of making something I "felt". So, I can not wait to give it another try..)
As I began my holiday marketing campaign this year, I decided to try a few new avenues for marketing- you probably have received all the same advertisements and junk mail that I have for "marketing services", "viral marketing", etc. etc. Well, I decided to actually check out what some of these are- and I think I have a better understanding now of what these terms mean, and how we can actually use a few to our benefit!
I am on a pretty tight advertising budget, how about you? So, I have to be selective and use what will target the audience I am looking for. Free is really the price range I am at, but I really wouldn't mind paying for a service or plan, if I KNEW it would really get my company name out there in to the public.
One route you can take, and it is really affordable, is email customer lists, and opt in lists. This means, simply, sending a routine email out to your customers or to people who REQUEST your routine business emails. There are a couple ways you can do this- you can keep a hard copy list (write each email down on a piece of paper), join an email list building service, post sign up's at your various spots (your blog, website, etc.), or join a service that sends your email out for you. What can you put in your email? Well, you could add coupon codes, coupons, show off your latest items, sale information, links to your new shops, or even tell a little about yourself. Pictures are always a great way to grab someone's attention and market your items! So, the potential is truly endless..
Any other ideas out there of what you can add to your customer emails? I am NOT an expert, so I am always looking for advice from those out there that use marketing tools- comment or send a link and I will gladly post it!
So, if you are going to create an email opt in list for yourself you would need to set up a button on your site where viewers could click and be directed to a form. The form would request name and email address. From this you could create a weekly newsletter, email, flyer, etc. and send it to the people on your list. You can use any word type program to create your newsletter or flyer (many have templates already created for this). Sometimes mail programs will not let you send out "mass mailings", so you will have to send small groups at a time. This can be time consuming, obviously. But, if your budget is tight, this may be the best way to go.
Another idea would be to use an email service like Vista Mail. You can create and edit newsletters, emails, etc. utilizing a ton of really cool templates they have. You can also put an HTML code up on your sites and blogs, that Vista provides for you, which allows people to opt in to your list. Vista manages your contact list for you. You can group your customers into several categories or subgroups, thus allowing you to send out specific, target emails to those on your list. This is the service I currently use, and I have been pretty happy with it. It costs about 4.99 a month, and you can send out 1-2 emails per week to your list. I typically send one out every 3 weeks. I also have gained several new "potential" customers by using the email sign up buttons that Vista provides. Plus Vista tracks how many open your mail, how many automatically delete it, how many are moved to the spam folder, etc. This way you can avoid annoying those people who do not seem to be interested in your company, and focus on those "future customers" instead. Here is a link if you want to check this out....
There are probably several other services out there, I am just unfamiliar with most. If you use an email marketing program, share! I would love to hear about other services out there.
Now onto some other options... There are email list companies or email marketing companies that literally do all of the work for you. They encourage the list building through various methods, and create huge email lists of potential customers. A lot of services want you to buy this list they have created. I have never bought an email list, so I am not sure what the outcome would be with a campaign. However, I have just recently used a trial of an email marketing campaign program that provides the list of recipients. It is really simple, and the cost ranges from free to about 4.95. I am still at the free tier, and if it proves to be a useful service that grows my customer base, I would likely be willing to pay for the service. You can try it for free, also. In fact you can stay at the free level for as long as you choose. I have been utilizing the service as a free member for about 4 months. I have seen the numbers increase for the viewers at my sites, blogs, etc. but I can not say for sure it is because of this service or other measures I have implemented as part of my holiday marketing. Regardless, you are not out any money and it takes about 4 minutes to create the email you send out- so, really, you can't lose. Here is the link so you can give it a try: http://www.advertyze.com/go.php?r=9866
Another idea is to utilize the hard copy list I mentioned before, but use it as a snail mail list. Keep a sign up sheet at your shows, or fairs- ask for email and snail mail addresses. At holiday times you can send out a postcard, Christmas card, etc. with coupons or a mail order form for your customers! This is an idea I had not thought of until recently, but it is really obvious! Now, again, this may cost a little money at first because you will have to pay for postage, not to mention the time it takes to address and send out the cards- but the rewards could be tremendous for your business. I once heard that what makes a business grow is the REPEAT customers- (have you heard that, too?). You can add the addresses from your online customers to this list, also! If you use paypal for your postage, you can simply go into your account and pull up your shipping history. That's it!
So, there are a few email marketing ideas for you to think about. If you have some great methods you have tried, I would love to hear about them...
Well, Take a Breath Tuesday has come and gone... and I bet you are wondering if I forgot about the drawing? Nope! I have a winner, and I had hoped to contact her direct, but unfortunately, I have NO contact information! Why did I not ask for it? Crazy Mommy just wasn't thinking that day, I guess! So here is my plea for jhitomi to give me a shout so I can get your prize sent off to you! Congratulations !! and I hope you love it!!
Now, on to other items for today-
Next week I am offering a Gift Certificate, and reduced shipping at my Etsy shop ( http://www.MommyTyme.etsy.com ) - Plus I have added a few new items that I am really excited about!
At my artfire shop (http://www.artfire.com/MommyTyme ) I have added some new items, also! And I have a HUGE HOLIDAY sale happening that I hope you will check out!
So, here are the latest items I have added to the shop- I would love to hear what you think....
I have really been infatuated with creating scarves the past few weeks... I have already sold my mixed fiber collage scarf below- but I am in the midst of creating a second one as we speak...
created from a mixture of mohair yarn, cotton, baby fine, acrylic/wool blend worsted weight, and even some suede yarn! Several different stitch styles are going on, too! I actually purchased this pattern from Cindy Kamps on Etsy a few weeks ago- then, as always, I added a little of "this" and "that" throughout the process to make it a little more "Mommy Tyme" styling! But, if you love the Baroque look, are an avid crocheter, or just a huge fan of unique and stylish patterns- I suggest you check out Cindy Kamps! I love her patterns and have purchased in the past year, the neckwarmer book she has, the scarf book, and the Baroque poncho. Not to mention, she is one of my favorite designers on Ravelry!
Ok- next on my list is the blue stitched scarflette/cowl - One of my absolute favorites to make this season. I think I like this because the stitches are different constantly, so you don't get bored while in the crochet mode- but, again, this one was a pattern that I added an extra scallop row to, and then omitted some of the other. I added two layers of fringe to make it Full- and I wanted something that looked especially "giddy" when worn to the side. What are your thoughts?
Finally, make sure to stop by next week as I have a new tutorial coming up! A crochet pattern of one of my favorite scarves! Free, of course! And I will also post a new tutorial / Recipe on how to make your own dishwasher detergent with things you have in your cabinets! (Plus, it costs about 2 cents per load to use,and if you are worried..it really does clean your dishes and the hot water in your dishwasher reaches such a hot temperature that it already sanitizes them! so no worries, it really does work!)
So, that is it for now... I am always open to critics and thoughts? Have a great week, and I hope to see you back here in a few days for the tutorials!
Well, with all the hustle and bustle of the upcoming shopping days, I thought it might be nice to share a FREE gift with some of my followers and visitors after all the hub- bub this weekend! I don't know about you, but shopping stresses me out! I am not a big fan of fighting a crowd at 4am! That is why I am thrilled about the concept of Cyber Monday! I do most of my shopping online, anyway! And for the holidays I typically try to create something - but, there are always those few people that you just have no idea what to get them (and I end up relying on a gift card)- but, this year I believe (and am determined!) that there is something unique, artisan crafted, handmade, out there that I can surprise them with! So, I will be sleeping in on Friday, but up surfing the web bright and early Monday morning.
So, back to the giveaway, right? Well, here it goes:
Win this gold and black, flower embellished, crochet choker just by commenting about something you saw at my shops or website that may have caught your interest! That's it! I will hold the drawing on Tuesday (which I have labeled, Take a breath Tuesday). This choker is completely adjustable with a vintage style button closure. The floral embellishment covers the button closure, but you can also remove the embellishment for a sleeker, contemporary look! I like it both ways, and unfortunately I just could not commit to any one design so opted to combine both the ideas I had...It is created from a glitter metallic lame size 10 thread with a black size 3 to ensure durability and comfortable wear. So, here is your chance to win it (with minimal work involved!)
1. Visit any of my shops or website- http://www.mommytyme.org http://www.MommyTyme.etsy.com http://www.artfire.com/MommyTyme
2. Comment here on one thing you found interesting, you liked, etc. and you are entered!
Want some extra entries?
1. Tweet about the giveaway by adding the following to your post- "http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com Post Black Friday/Cyber Monday Giveaway" 2. Facebook/ Stumble upon/ My Space/ Etc! post about the giveaway and by adding the following to your post- "http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com Post Black Friday/Cyber Monday Giveaway" 3. Post a note on your blog by adding the following to your post- "http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com Post Black Friday/Cyber Monday Giveaway" 4. Anything else you do to help promote my giveaway by adding the following to your post- "http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com Post Black Friday/Cyber Monday Giveaway"
Ok- That's it, that's all! Cant wait to see you all browsing the pages over the next few days! Happy shopping! Oh, and don't forget to check out the upper right column here at the blog for a collection of sales and giveaways specifically for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping hoopla! nab some bargains!
So, only a few days left...so much to do, right? Where to begin? How will anyone possibly find my shop amongst all the other sales and specials out there? Time for optimism to kick in...
"Optimism: The doctrine, or belief, that everything is beautiful, including what is ugly, everything good, especially the bad, and everything right that is wrong."
Etsy shop owners- create your own coupon codes! Yeah! Now we can finally give special discounts without having to mess around with pay pal or send refunds! Woo hooo and just in time for Black Friday! See more about this here:
I just set up one for my Etsy shop at http://www.MommyTyme.etsy.com Just enter BlackFriday to receive an additional 10% off any item in my shop!
Participate in the holiday sale pages at Artfire! Just add the special tag to your items and it will be pulled and shown on the ARTFIRE holiday page specials! Find out all the details here:
For those of you using Zibbet, gift guides have been implemented for the BIG Sale Days- want in on this? Just List items under the Gift Guide or Black Friday category when you are adding your products! You can edit what you already have listed, or use the importers and put some new items in your shop...
AND- JUST FOR THE JOY OF THE HOLIDAYS- I AM OFFERING A GIVEAWAY AT MY BLOG! A GOLD AND BLACK HOLIDAY HANDMADE CROCHET CHOKER! SO AFTER ALL THE WORK YOU ARE DOING TO GET YOUR SHOP READY FOR THE SALES, TAKE A MOMENT TO TREAT YOURSELF! VISIT THE BLOG AT http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com and enter! DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON "TIME TO TAKE A BREATH TUESDAY"- 11/30/10! GOOD LUCK-
here's a sneak peek-
Finally.... If you haven't done it yet, make sure you add your shop to my Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales and giveaway page! Posted in the side bar at the blog http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com; on facebook fan page; being retweeted now until Monday at http://twitter.com/MommyTyme; and the extra page that is added HERE on this blog! I will keep updating the list from UNTIL Friday! So make sure to take advantage of this- all I ask in return is that you add the button or the URL- http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com to your page, your blog, your facebook or somewhere... Thanks everyone! and good luck this weekend!
Add the code from the button at the right column to promote the sales page! see the front page promotion at http://www.mommytyme.org
Black Friday? For the longest time I had no idea what this was... But, with all the hype in the online marketplaces and social networks (like Ning)- how can you miss it? So, as part of my marketing for the holidays series, I thought I would talk about creative ways to get yourself in the ranks (with all the competition, it may be a little tough) for the upcoming Friday Super Shopping Day!
So, if you are a shop owner, sell handmade, artisan crafted, artist, or a combination of many things... You likely are hoping Thursday and Friday this week are going to be BIG SALE days for you! But, how do you get noticed when there are so many competing shops? Well, I did a little research and here are a few tips for you:
1. Offer a sale- that is a given right? But make sure you put this in your title of the product, in your tags for the offer, and make sure that you have an accurate way of immediately offering this sale. What does that mean? Make sure you either reduce the price paid so that the customer does not have to wait for a rebate, or refund. Most shoppers want to see the money immediately. Or utilize coupon codes that automatically deduct the cost, etc.
2. Post your sale info. where the shoppers will be. If you belong to a social network that mostly sellers frequent, or forums for vendors, posting your sales there is just notifying your competition, right? Why out those places that shoppers visit- for example, use some traffic referral sites starting today, do link exchanges today, utilize project wonderful right away. Tip for Project Wonderful: Post your ads on sites that shoppers frequent! Don't just list your ad on sites or blogs that are targeted for the crafter/vendor/seller. So, for instance, avoid posting your ad on a blog for knitters that give patterns and tips, instead opt for the blog that shows off knitted items for sale. Make sense? and if you have the funds, now is the time to invest in your advertising on project wonderful. The free ads usually only run for one day, but if you bid .01 it will run until someone bids .02- is that clear? I hope I am explaining this correctly. Also, take the extra few minutes and set up a campaign that goes until Sunday- this way you get your busy Thurs. and Fri. shoppers, but also those stragglers that can't get to the computer until Sat or Sunday.
3. If you host a blog- set up direct links to your shop! Use your own platforms as sale banners! Utilize what you have and make the most of it! For example, if you have an artfire shop then you get a free blog with it, also. So, announce your shop sale on your blog and then post the link that goes directly to your shop (newby shoppers may not know how to maneuver around the site and find you), if you are having a sale on specific items, then put your link to Those Items. How do you find the link? Simply click on view store, then click on the sale item, then go to your bar at the top of your web page and right click on the URL to hi-lite it, then copy. Go back to your blog page, place your cursor where you want the link to be, right click again, hit paste- that's all there is to it! (for you advanced computer guru's this may be a little over - explaining, but I really want the new shop owners out there to get the most out of their available opportunities).
4. Take a little time and revise your key words. Now this is a little tricky for some... You really have to think about your selling platform (are you utilizing Etsy? artfire? zibbet? own website? selling on your blog?) and find out how the criteria is fed to google. I recently learned that Etsy shops stand out when they use catchy, descriptive adjectives for their products such as awesome, beautiful, outstanding, fantastic, unique, etc. But, Artfire focuses on the actual descriptive tags like color references, purpose, name, materials so you would go for like red, fiber, multi media, crochet, knitted, etc. Now- this is just THEORY- but, if you are trying to attract the general shopper (not just the shopper seeking out a uniquely crafted HANDMADE product)- you may want to remove the tag- HANDMADE- if you are using it. I know, I can't believe I am saying it... but, if you want someone to actually give your item a chance and check it out before excluding it, you may need to reel those shoppers in and give them the opportunity to browse it first. Many novice online shoppers unfamiliar with the handmade movement may be Leary of purchasing a handmade item at first, but getting them to your shop gives you the opportunity to sell it with your description, history, and feedback scores! Let's say a new shopper does a search for "baby hat", your item description may come up as "handmade, crocheted baby hat in soft blue acrylic" and this shopper may just pass on by and hit the Kohls advertisement. Or with the handmade removed, "Beautiful crochet blue soft acrylic baby hat". That may appeal, they click on your etsy
4. Why not send out an email to your customer list? If you do not have an email program, then this may be the time to invest in one (even if you only keep it for a month or two)- you will have it for the holidays and then the opportunity to send out your sales, holiday information, and new products to previous customers and get a few new ones. A great program (that is free the first month) is VISTA Print. Check out the link below for more information. Also, utilize traffic referral systems during this time. Many offer free email lists, traffic ranks, submission to various search engines, and advertising on various sites. I have listed a few of these for you- but, be very Leary of any paid services or contracts- until you have time to read the fine print- just submit your information and complete the sample email listings for now. That should be enough!
5. Don't forget to take advantage of blog hops, facebook fan pages, link love, etc. These type of activities promote you and you can help a fellow artisan by promoting them. Start by signing up for my facebook fan page below- then get on the discussion tab where it says link love and leave your links. I will promote them! Once you join my fan page, you can also promote yourself on the wall. Just introduce yourself, post your links, and load a photo or two. This page feeds to my website, my blogs, and to all my friends and fans! They in turn may have feeds also, so it goes to their friends and fans... See how quickly it can spread?
6. Finally, Finally, Finally..... To promote and share with all my readers, my blog site, fan page, squidoo lens readers and "rollers" , twitter, and more... I am putting together a Black Friday Super Sale and Giveaway Page! I will post this immediately and update it daily so everyone who may just be getting started with their sale plans has a chance to post their url. It will automatically feed to my twitter, facebook fan page, squidoo lens, plumdrop, merchant circle, LinkedIn, and web site. I will do some random promotions over the next week for the page with the lists and announcements on various traffic submission sites, referrals, exchanges! And everyone entered by Wednesday will have their shop /sale entered in my Super Sale email flyer I will send out! (if you would like to receive a copy, sign up for the email list in the box EMAIL UPDATES box below) In RETURN, all you have to do is promote the list and page by adding a brief post or update with the url linking to: http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com or grab the button/avatar:
So, GO TO THE COMMENTS SECTION AFTER THIS POST AND : if you are having a SALE, list the SALE INFORMATION and URL. If you are having a giveaway, LIST YOUR GIVEAWAY TITLE and URL. Leave these in the comments below- I have set up the page that announces all of the sales and giveaways at http://mommytymegifts.blogspot.com and it is listed on the front page of my website at http://www.mommytyme.org AND you can find more information at my Facebook Fan Page- and ongoing tweets will be referring the URL from now until Sunday!
So, Only 4 days left to prepare! Get busy, and then list your information here- just one extra way to promote and increase your Holiday Sales this season....
To get a copy of the flyer and to receive ongoing updates from here and the Mommy Tyme Gifts blog:
Sign up in the box at the left column! Orange box stating "Email list"
Join the Fan Page for more promotional opportunities and to see the posts about your sale:
Everyone is gearing up for the Holidays, and I would hate to not promote the holiday spirit! So, Mommy Tyme Gifts is offering....
FREE LIP BALM WITH EVERY ORDER- YUMMY FLAVORS INCLUDE MINT, CHERRY, CARAMEL, HONEY AND MORE... SO TREAT YOURSELF WHILE SHOPPING FOR THOSE ON YOUR LIST!
AND TAKE 10% OFF OF ALL ITEMS - YES, ALL ITEMS AT MY ARTFIRE SHOP- USE THIS COUPON TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SAVINGS! YOU CAN USE THIS COUPON UNTIL SUNDAY 11/30/10 AT MIDNIGHT!
But, that's not all.... I collected all my friend's and fellow artisan's holiday giveaways, sales, and shop information to share with you, too! See the list at the right column titled "Super Sales and Giveaways". Really, you could get all of your shopping completed seated in your chair with a cup of coffee, right now! No, it's true! Just look at the awesome ideas and the prices, wow! Need I say more? Just get browsing, and before you know, you will be done!
So, lets get shopping (and grab up all the freebies...) :
