1. What is your shop name and what do you sell? My shop name is ShadySideFarm, and I sell wool yarns, rovings and other wool products from our farm. We have upwards of 100 sheep on the farm with two different breeds. We're always looking for new and creative ways to market their wool. I also sell handwoven rag rugs (I've been weaving for over 10 years). We also offer hand-cranked socks made by my husband on his antique circular sock knitting machine.
2. What is your shop URL? http://shadysidefarm.etsy.com/
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? I opened my shop in November 2007.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? I love that we can have an on-line presence without a website designer. Etsy is a great way to get started in online selling without a huge investment of either time or money.
5. What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I'm proud of the fact that everything in our Etsy store is either handmade by someone in our family, or comes directly from the wool from our sheep.
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Hard to choose! But I think the one item I'd keep for myself is the Country Mix Handwoven Rag Rug--http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9992513
7. What teams do you belong to? Besides EtsyWMI, I also belong to the SHEteam (Schooling at Home Etsians).
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? I'm not really a great promoter. I guess I would have to say my blog is the most fun. You can find it at http://shadysidefarm.blogspot.com
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? My favorite jewelry maker is Linda at http://mompotter.etsy.com, and I'm very proud of my two daughters at http://farmgirldesigns.etsy.com.
10. What do you do in your spare time? What is spare time? I homeschool my 3 of my 4 kids (the oldest is in college), and I am the bookkeeper and hired hand on the farm. I run a mom-based taxi service, am chief cook and bottlewasher, I blog and play with etsy.
I don't get to weave nearly enough to suit me, and often joke that it's my "therapy."
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
October Challenge: "Michigan Autumn"
Hold on to your mittens! We have decided on a different theme for our first etsywmi challenge. The theme is "Michigan Autumn." After much discussion in the forums, it was the general consensus that our first challenge should be more of a general theme, making it easier for everyone to participate in their own medium, if desired.
In answer to some of your questions:
1. What is a challenge? Is it a contest? No, it isn't a contest. It is meant to spark ideas and to provide inspiration. And to be fun!
2. Will we list the items we create? If you want to, I think most people probably will. I guess it depends on how the projects turn out, at least for me!!!
3. What are the rules? There really are no rules. In the case of the first challenge, just create something that represents Michigan Autumn to you. Create as many items as you want! You may want to include "Michigan Autumn" in your title(or tags), in case anyone is inspired to make a treasury.
4. What do we do with our creations when they are finished? Still working on that one. Hopefully, this can be a regular section of our team blog, with links to your etsy shops. I will provide more information when I get that part worked out.
5. Will there be more challenges? I'm hoping we can do one a month. I would like to get something set upat least for November and December so people can start dreaming. TENTATIVELY, I'm thinking of "Bundle up, Michigan" for November. That way, anyone who had their hearts set on mittens can use them for the November challenge. I'm hoping for suggestions, though.
So, what do you think? Any further questions or suggestions? Let's get started!
~ Sarah
In answer to some of your questions:
1. What is a challenge? Is it a contest? No, it isn't a contest. It is meant to spark ideas and to provide inspiration. And to be fun!
2. Will we list the items we create? If you want to, I think most people probably will. I guess it depends on how the projects turn out, at least for me!!!
3. What are the rules? There really are no rules. In the case of the first challenge, just create something that represents Michigan Autumn to you. Create as many items as you want! You may want to include "Michigan Autumn" in your title(or tags), in case anyone is inspired to make a treasury.
4. What do we do with our creations when they are finished? Still working on that one. Hopefully, this can be a regular section of our team blog, with links to your etsy shops. I will provide more information when I get that part worked out.
5. Will there be more challenges? I'm hoping we can do one a month. I would like to get something set upat least for November and December so people can start dreaming. TENTATIVELY, I'm thinking of "Bundle up, Michigan" for November. That way, anyone who had their hearts set on mittens can use them for the November challenge. I'm hoping for suggestions, though.
So, what do you think? Any further questions or suggestions? Let's get started!
~ Sarah
Monday, September 15, 2008
Feature Artist: Claw Tree Design/Raid My Stash
1 & 2 What is your shop name and what do you sell? What is your shop URL? I have two Etsy shops. The first is is Claw Tree Design. Here I sell fiber art scarves and handbags as well as handmade jewelry in different styles. My other store Raid My Stash- a little supply shop where I sell small quantities of beads for those who want to try something new without a large investment. I have lots of little bits of beads left over, and people seem to like being able to buy small amounts.
3 When did you start selling on Etsy? I started selling on Etsy this summer, and am actually still stocking the Claw Tree Design store and plan to “launch” it this fall. I’m still figuring out how to do that. I expect it will happen in early October.
4 When did you start selling on Etsy? My favorite thing about Etsy is the creativity of the community. I can just browse for hours, amazed at the work that I see.
5 What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I love that I sell items that are actually used and worn and enjoyed by people, I love to hear someone tell me how much they still like a piece of jewelry years after they bought it.
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Currently the favorite item in my shop would be either the shell bracelet with seed beads and pearls “I found Another Shell” or the highly textured nuno felted scarf “Fall Fiesta” Both were so much fun to make, both are unique and beautiful in their own way.
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to the West Michigan Etsy team. I am new to Etsy and therefore new to this team, but I have enjoyed meeting members of the team and am impressed by how congenial and supportive they are.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? I haven’t yet promoted my shop, but I will do so this fall. I appreciate suggestions… I did participate in Etsy day at the Fulton Street Artisans Market, and that was fun.
9.What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? I have a list of favorite items that grows daily. I lately have been looking at nature photography, ceramics, and some copper metal work jewelry. All things that I do not make, but love to have…
10.What do you do in your spare time? My art is my spare time lately. I love to read, to hang out at the lake with the kids. I enjoy knitting and crochet, I like to walk and in the winter I ski when I can.
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? The only other thing I could share is the inspiration for the name of my shop – Claw Tree Design. A claw tree – as I call it - is a tree that for some reason has roots exposed that appear to be reaching for or clinging to the ground. I see these trees as a metaphor. They all started out as seedlings in a place that should have given them the nutrients to grow, but for some reason the ground underneath them changed, shifted, eroded, went away. Some trees then just die, but the claw tree extends its roots as far as they need to go in order to hang on to what it needs to stay alive and growing. It is a symbol of perseverance and faith. My avatar is a sketch I made years ago when learning how to draw. A claw tree was a difficult subject given my lack of experience but it turned out well. That was the first time I thought that I may just be able to create. It gave me the encouragement to continue drawing and eventually to pursue my creative urges into different mediums.
3 When did you start selling on Etsy? I started selling on Etsy this summer, and am actually still stocking the Claw Tree Design store and plan to “launch” it this fall. I’m still figuring out how to do that. I expect it will happen in early October.
4 When did you start selling on Etsy? My favorite thing about Etsy is the creativity of the community. I can just browse for hours, amazed at the work that I see.
5 What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I love that I sell items that are actually used and worn and enjoyed by people, I love to hear someone tell me how much they still like a piece of jewelry years after they bought it.
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Currently the favorite item in my shop would be either the shell bracelet with seed beads and pearls “I found Another Shell” or the highly textured nuno felted scarf “Fall Fiesta” Both were so much fun to make, both are unique and beautiful in their own way.
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to the West Michigan Etsy team. I am new to Etsy and therefore new to this team, but I have enjoyed meeting members of the team and am impressed by how congenial and supportive they are.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? I haven’t yet promoted my shop, but I will do so this fall. I appreciate suggestions… I did participate in Etsy day at the Fulton Street Artisans Market, and that was fun.
9.What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? I have a list of favorite items that grows daily. I lately have been looking at nature photography, ceramics, and some copper metal work jewelry. All things that I do not make, but love to have…
10.What do you do in your spare time? My art is my spare time lately. I love to read, to hang out at the lake with the kids. I enjoy knitting and crochet, I like to walk and in the winter I ski when I can.
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? The only other thing I could share is the inspiration for the name of my shop – Claw Tree Design. A claw tree – as I call it - is a tree that for some reason has roots exposed that appear to be reaching for or clinging to the ground. I see these trees as a metaphor. They all started out as seedlings in a place that should have given them the nutrients to grow, but for some reason the ground underneath them changed, shifted, eroded, went away. Some trees then just die, but the claw tree extends its roots as far as they need to go in order to hang on to what it needs to stay alive and growing. It is a symbol of perseverance and faith. My avatar is a sketch I made years ago when learning how to draw. A claw tree was a difficult subject given my lack of experience but it turned out well. That was the first time I thought that I may just be able to create. It gave me the encouragement to continue drawing and eventually to pursue my creative urges into different mediums.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Feature Artist: Heather's Crafts
1. What is your shop name and what do you sell? My shop is Heather's Crafts and I sell hand crafted dolls, pillows,small art quilts.
2. What is your shop URL? http://heatherweathers.etsy.com/
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? I "took the plunge" and quit my super stressful day job in December and I started selling on Etsy in July.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? Meeting new people and seeing the lovely goodies they make. I love collaboration and sharing ideas and advice. I haven't been able to do that since I left school.
5. What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I love the fact that I can make whatever I want. I sell items that have the strongest personalities...and every single thing is different and unique.
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Right now, my favorite item in my shop is the Portly Gentleman Deady Bearhttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13490794. I love how sweet he looks at me from my desk. It will be hard to part with that little guy.
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to EstyWMI, Etsy DollArtisans, and Etsy Dark Side Street Team
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Going to shows is really the most fun for me. I love meeting everyone and getting to know the regulars around town and I'm really building a great customer base that way. I keep hearing, "I need to know where you will be next!"
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? My ultimate favorite things I've found on Etsy are these beautiful headbands:whichgoose.etsy.com I'm also a sucker for innovative illustrations (as that was my major in college). Some of my favorites are: abstractheart.etsy.com,MiaMiBox.etsy.com, and a local girl deadbird.etsy.com
10. What do you do in your spare time? I don't consider myself as having spare time. I sew, paint, and draw constantly. Then I check Etsy and email with breakfast. It's great doing what I love all day long!
2. What is your shop URL? http://heatherweathers.etsy.com/
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? I "took the plunge" and quit my super stressful day job in December and I started selling on Etsy in July.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? Meeting new people and seeing the lovely goodies they make. I love collaboration and sharing ideas and advice. I haven't been able to do that since I left school.
5. What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I love the fact that I can make whatever I want. I sell items that have the strongest personalities...and every single thing is different and unique.
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Right now, my favorite item in my shop is the Portly Gentleman Deady Bearhttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13490794. I love how sweet he looks at me from my desk. It will be hard to part with that little guy.
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to EstyWMI, Etsy DollArtisans, and Etsy Dark Side Street Team
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Going to shows is really the most fun for me. I love meeting everyone and getting to know the regulars around town and I'm really building a great customer base that way. I keep hearing, "I need to know where you will be next!"
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? My ultimate favorite things I've found on Etsy are these beautiful headbands:whichgoose.etsy.com I'm also a sucker for innovative illustrations (as that was my major in college). Some of my favorites are: abstractheart.etsy.com,MiaMiBox.etsy.com, and a local girl deadbird.etsy.com
10. What do you do in your spare time? I don't consider myself as having spare time. I sew, paint, and draw constantly. Then I check Etsy and email with breakfast. It's great doing what I love all day long!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Feature Artist: Poppy Glass
1. What is your shop name and what do you sell? The name is Poppy Glass and I sell stained glass art and jewelry. Actually I just started adding the jewelry part as of late and it kinda seems to be taking over my shop which I am not so sure I like that much so I guess I need to get my butt busy on my panels again soon!
2. What is your shop URL? http://poppyglass.etsy.com/
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? Ummm lets see…I think it was March 15th of this year.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? I LOVE all the art! I cannot get enough of it. My favorites list is out of control.
5. What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I like that my stuff has a bit of a twist from your typical stained glass you see around. I try to create different things and keep it funky!
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? My favorite piece at the moment is my “Jubilence” piece just because I love color and this piece is like a big burst of color to hang up!
7. What teams do you belong to? Well Etsy West Michigan of course. I am really not that good about participating though. I really like being connected to local artsit though.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Hmmmm….I am not that good at promoting either I am afraid. I recently had a custom stamp made though with my shop name and url and I am going to being using it to make my own earring cards for my first show. Kinda like having them hang on my own business cards.
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? OMG there are so many! But one of the first things I ever bought on Etsy is still my favorite. I bought a couple of ACEO’s from Norway based artist Carambatack Design (www.carambatack.etsy.com) and I absolutely LOVE them and all of her work. It is so sweet and wonderful I plan on buying more and getting them framed for around my house.
10. What do you do in your spare time? Spare time? I have no spare time! LOL Seriously there is not alot of spare time in my life. I have a 4yr old daughter and a 1yr old son, a house to run, a business to run, I have been volunteering at the Obama Campaign, I try my hardest to find some ME time. And usually if I do I am kicked back with a beer and just vegging out in front of the TV or the computer.
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? I kinda feel like I am finally coming into my own since I have started here on Etsy. I have always been an artsy person, but just dabbled here and there and never really made any money doing it. And now that people are actually paying for MY work I feel like it finally has a purpose and some meaning to it. I guess that’s kinda silly to equate money with meaning, but it became more than just for me once I started selling things. Now I feel like I can do what I love and contribute to the family income and I don’t have to feel guilty about spending the crazy money I do on my supplies. I finally feel like a real artist!!!
2. What is your shop URL? http://poppyglass.etsy.com/
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? Ummm lets see…I think it was March 15th of this year.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? I LOVE all the art! I cannot get enough of it. My favorites list is out of control.
5. What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I like that my stuff has a bit of a twist from your typical stained glass you see around. I try to create different things and keep it funky!
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? My favorite piece at the moment is my “Jubilence” piece just because I love color and this piece is like a big burst of color to hang up!
7. What teams do you belong to? Well Etsy West Michigan of course. I am really not that good about participating though. I really like being connected to local artsit though.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Hmmmm….I am not that good at promoting either I am afraid. I recently had a custom stamp made though with my shop name and url and I am going to being using it to make my own earring cards for my first show. Kinda like having them hang on my own business cards.
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? OMG there are so many! But one of the first things I ever bought on Etsy is still my favorite. I bought a couple of ACEO’s from Norway based artist Carambatack Design (www.carambatack.etsy.com) and I absolutely LOVE them and all of her work. It is so sweet and wonderful I plan on buying more and getting them framed for around my house.
10. What do you do in your spare time? Spare time? I have no spare time! LOL Seriously there is not alot of spare time in my life. I have a 4yr old daughter and a 1yr old son, a house to run, a business to run, I have been volunteering at the Obama Campaign, I try my hardest to find some ME time. And usually if I do I am kicked back with a beer and just vegging out in front of the TV or the computer.
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? I kinda feel like I am finally coming into my own since I have started here on Etsy. I have always been an artsy person, but just dabbled here and there and never really made any money doing it. And now that people are actually paying for MY work I feel like it finally has a purpose and some meaning to it. I guess that’s kinda silly to equate money with meaning, but it became more than just for me once I started selling things. Now I feel like I can do what I love and contribute to the family income and I don’t have to feel guilty about spending the crazy money I do on my supplies. I finally feel like a real artist!!!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Feature Artist: Cottonseed
1. What is your shop name and what do you sell? Cotton Seed ~ I design wearable treasures and gifts, pretty packaging, and jewelry findings.
2.What are your shops URL? http://heatherweathers.etsy.com and http://cottonseed.etsy.com
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? July 2008.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? My favorite thing about etsy is the friendly, helpful, community of people. And the very high level of integrity in workmanship and business ethics. Etsy allows people like myself to share with the world what I love to do and am all about!
5.What is your favorite thing about what you sell? My favorite aspect about what I sell is the shear creativity to make a one of a kind wearable treasure, and know that someone will take it home and love and enjoy it!
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? My favorite item in my shop is my vintage silver spoon handle bracelets. The idea of taking something old and well used and loved, and giving it a new beautiful purpose gives me great joy. I get compliments every time I wear mine!
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to team ETSYWMI ~ ETSYWWWG.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Talk TALK taLK taLK ~ network on line and off.
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? Banners - clothes - jewelry - friends - soap.
10. What do you do in your spare time? I am a grandmother, I love to garden , ride my bicycle, walk with my husband, my family, read, I am active in my church, make quilts for the Red Cross in our county, mend clothes for seniors in our town, and talk!
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? Thanks so much for letting me share! Being an older person, not schooled on computers from day one, I have learned so much about this world of technology. And every day I find caring, knowledgeable, sharing, and most of all funny people , all on the internet!!! Mostly through Etsy. I wish all of you "the best" in your business endeavors.
2.What are your shops URL? http://heatherweathers.etsy.com and http://cottonseed.etsy.com
3. When did you start selling on Etsy? July 2008.
4. What is your favorite thing about Etsy? My favorite thing about etsy is the friendly, helpful, community of people. And the very high level of integrity in workmanship and business ethics. Etsy allows people like myself to share with the world what I love to do and am all about!
5.What is your favorite thing about what you sell? My favorite aspect about what I sell is the shear creativity to make a one of a kind wearable treasure, and know that someone will take it home and love and enjoy it!
6. What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? My favorite item in my shop is my vintage silver spoon handle bracelets. The idea of taking something old and well used and loved, and giving it a new beautiful purpose gives me great joy. I get compliments every time I wear mine!
7. What teams do you belong to? I belong to team ETSYWMI ~ ETSYWWWG.
8. What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Talk TALK taLK taLK ~ network on line and off.
9. What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? Banners - clothes - jewelry - friends - soap.
10. What do you do in your spare time? I am a grandmother, I love to garden , ride my bicycle, walk with my husband, my family, read, I am active in my church, make quilts for the Red Cross in our county, mend clothes for seniors in our town, and talk!
11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? Thanks so much for letting me share! Being an older person, not schooled on computers from day one, I have learned so much about this world of technology. And every day I find caring, knowledgeable, sharing, and most of all funny people , all on the internet!!! Mostly through Etsy. I wish all of you "the best" in your business endeavors.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Trunk Show at Gymnastiks Unlimited in Hudsonville
Mark your calendars! We have a Trunk Show on September 27th (the last Saturday of the month). Ten of our own Etsy West Michigan Artists are participating.
A Window Into Whimsy: Hand Sewn Purses, Totes and Handbags with a whimsical flair. Key Fobs and other small sewn items will also be available. Great for the gift giver, prices range from $5 to $35.
Elysium: I will be selling high quality sterling silver jewelry with semiprecious stones lampwork beads, and Swarovski crystals. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. In addition to that I will have beaded bookmarks, cell phone charms, wine glass charms, purse bling, and zipper pulls. My items range in price from $5.00 to $75.00.
Just Jaynes Add something special to your jewelry creations using sterling silver charms with an artistic flair!
Lilypie Designs: I will have unique hair accessories including no-slip clips, headbands, and ponytail holders for infants, toddlers, and girls. I will also have great gift items such as jumbo paper clip bookmarks, tutu tanks for little girls, and a few other new products
Lydia Layne Simple yet stunning sterling silver necklaces and earrings.
Mondry’s Yknot Shop: I will bring my scrunchies, knot hair ties, turks head knot bracelets & knot necklaces.
Perennial Piecer: I will be bringing my Raggy Chic jackets for Ladies, girls and 18" dolls along with a variety of sweatshirt jackets and quilted bookmarks.
Racermann: Everything that is listed in my store and and other crochet items that I have not listed yet. Polymer Clay Pendants, Radio-active Dust Bunnys, Sock Monkey Purses, can cozy's and dish clothes.
Sweet Surrender Candles: candles, tarts, tea lights, tart warmers, reed diffusers, and some bath & body items such as some lotions, bath fizzers and bath confetti
That Is So C.U.T.E.: Hand knit and felted cozies, ornaments, bowls, coaster and pet beds; beaded book thongs. Prices range from $5 to $50.
The Monkey Shop: I will be bringing my sock monkeys, neck cozy's, some sock monkey cards.
A Window Into Whimsy: Hand Sewn Purses, Totes and Handbags with a whimsical flair. Key Fobs and other small sewn items will also be available. Great for the gift giver, prices range from $5 to $35.
Elysium: I will be selling high quality sterling silver jewelry with semiprecious stones lampwork beads, and Swarovski crystals. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. In addition to that I will have beaded bookmarks, cell phone charms, wine glass charms, purse bling, and zipper pulls. My items range in price from $5.00 to $75.00.
Just Jaynes Add something special to your jewelry creations using sterling silver charms with an artistic flair!
Lilypie Designs: I will have unique hair accessories including no-slip clips, headbands, and ponytail holders for infants, toddlers, and girls. I will also have great gift items such as jumbo paper clip bookmarks, tutu tanks for little girls, and a few other new products
Lydia Layne Simple yet stunning sterling silver necklaces and earrings.
Mondry’s Yknot Shop: I will bring my scrunchies, knot hair ties, turks head knot bracelets & knot necklaces.
Perennial Piecer: I will be bringing my Raggy Chic jackets for Ladies, girls and 18" dolls along with a variety of sweatshirt jackets and quilted bookmarks.
Racermann: Everything that is listed in my store and and other crochet items that I have not listed yet. Polymer Clay Pendants, Radio-active Dust Bunnys, Sock Monkey Purses, can cozy's and dish clothes.
Sweet Surrender Candles: candles, tarts, tea lights, tart warmers, reed diffusers, and some bath & body items such as some lotions, bath fizzers and bath confetti
That Is So C.U.T.E.: Hand knit and felted cozies, ornaments, bowls, coaster and pet beds; beaded book thongs. Prices range from $5 to $50.
The Monkey Shop: I will be bringing my sock monkeys, neck cozy's, some sock monkey cards.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Feature Artist: Bliss Soybean Candles
What is your shop name and what do you sell? I have two Etsy shops! My main shop is Bliss Soybean Candles and Gifts which sells high end, decorative soy candles in jars, teas, gift sets, and the occasional votive. My other shop, Posies for Lewis, sells photography.
What is your shop URL? http://blisscandles.etsy.com http://posiesforlewis.etsy.com
When did you start selling on Etsy? Back in 2007. I actually gave up after a few months in 2007 and then came back in 2008, learned the “tricks of the trade,” and began to do very well. Posies for Lewis opened in 2008.
What is your favorite thing about Etsy? There are so many! Etsy has such a wonderful range of artists. Where else can you go and buy a $2 item or a $2000 item, both of which are fantastic?! I love turning people on to Etsy. From the seller side of things, the buyers are high caliber. I have sold on other sites as well and I just find the experience with Etsy buyers to be top notch! I also love the teams I am on. People are so wonderful and supportive. It is fun to create treasuries, network, blog, and all of that good stuff.
What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I have to admit I am one of my biggest fans. I have always been a candle addict – especially soy because it is just so much healthier and performs so much better than other waxes. I often tell people if you can’t afford to buy from me, at least promise me you will buy soy. I am so proud of my items because I know the quality is top notch and I love almost every single one of my 140+ fragrances! Sorry…I just can’t stand Patchouli and Clove…not my thingJ I’m all about the food, Fall, and Christmas fragrances making this my favorite time of year! I love to put fun gift sets together and am always keeping my eyes open to see if my suppliers have added any new jars or lids.
What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Oh dear! That’s tough. I LOVE my bigger jars. The Premium 16 oz jars are my fave because of the rusty lids. However, being a candle addict, a girl needs more candle than that so I make the 26 oz for myself! My favorite fragrances are Pumpkin Souffle, Pumpkin Spice, Vanilla Hazelnut Pumpkin, Cozy Home, Cinnamon Buns, Cinnamon Spice, Cool Citrus Basil, Spiced Apple Pecan, Energy, Coconut Bay (new!), Caramelized Pralines, Victorian Christmas, Twigs of Spruce, Balsam and Spice, and Pumpkin Pie. I have several more but those are ones I can’t do without!
What teams do you belong to? Etsy West Michigan, Interior Design Team/Design Style Guide, Cruelty Free Etsy, MICE, and Cottage Style. All are wonderful teams!
What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? I do so many things. I love to comment in Treasuries and create them. I am just never home any more when they open up! I like to talk in the Forums. My new favorite is doing Etsy Shop features on my blog (http://blisscandles.blogspot.com) and MySpace page. I am always developing promotional materials. I have the best time with this because I create my own stuff and send it off to VistaPrint and it looks like I paid big bucks – too cool! Yes, I am a computer nerd.
What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? I have so many! I love Serendipity’s stuff – always have: http://anneball.etsy.com. I found a handbag shop that is way cool: http://daphnenen.etsy.com. Dennis Anderson is very inspirational and has wonderful products. He has been so successful on Etsy that he quit his job!: http://dennisanderson.etsy.com.
What do you do in your spare time? Ha! I don’t have spare time. I have been making time to go to the beach lately though and it is time to start thinking about raking leaves and cleaning up the yard.11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? I highly encourage people to shop and sell on Etsy. The sellers and buyers are wonderful and the products are outstanding. If you are a seller, don’t give up. Learn the tricks and eventually it will pay off!
What is your shop URL? http://blisscandles.etsy.com http://posiesforlewis.etsy.com
When did you start selling on Etsy? Back in 2007. I actually gave up after a few months in 2007 and then came back in 2008, learned the “tricks of the trade,” and began to do very well. Posies for Lewis opened in 2008.
What is your favorite thing about Etsy? There are so many! Etsy has such a wonderful range of artists. Where else can you go and buy a $2 item or a $2000 item, both of which are fantastic?! I love turning people on to Etsy. From the seller side of things, the buyers are high caliber. I have sold on other sites as well and I just find the experience with Etsy buyers to be top notch! I also love the teams I am on. People are so wonderful and supportive. It is fun to create treasuries, network, blog, and all of that good stuff.
What is your favorite thing about what you sell? I have to admit I am one of my biggest fans. I have always been a candle addict – especially soy because it is just so much healthier and performs so much better than other waxes. I often tell people if you can’t afford to buy from me, at least promise me you will buy soy. I am so proud of my items because I know the quality is top notch and I love almost every single one of my 140+ fragrances! Sorry…I just can’t stand Patchouli and Clove…not my thingJ I’m all about the food, Fall, and Christmas fragrances making this my favorite time of year! I love to put fun gift sets together and am always keeping my eyes open to see if my suppliers have added any new jars or lids.
What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? Oh dear! That’s tough. I LOVE my bigger jars. The Premium 16 oz jars are my fave because of the rusty lids. However, being a candle addict, a girl needs more candle than that so I make the 26 oz for myself! My favorite fragrances are Pumpkin Souffle, Pumpkin Spice, Vanilla Hazelnut Pumpkin, Cozy Home, Cinnamon Buns, Cinnamon Spice, Cool Citrus Basil, Spiced Apple Pecan, Energy, Coconut Bay (new!), Caramelized Pralines, Victorian Christmas, Twigs of Spruce, Balsam and Spice, and Pumpkin Pie. I have several more but those are ones I can’t do without!
What teams do you belong to? Etsy West Michigan, Interior Design Team/Design Style Guide, Cruelty Free Etsy, MICE, and Cottage Style. All are wonderful teams!
What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? I do so many things. I love to comment in Treasuries and create them. I am just never home any more when they open up! I like to talk in the Forums. My new favorite is doing Etsy Shop features on my blog (http://blisscandles.blogspot.com) and MySpace page. I am always developing promotional materials. I have the best time with this because I create my own stuff and send it off to VistaPrint and it looks like I paid big bucks – too cool! Yes, I am a computer nerd.
What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy? I have so many! I love Serendipity’s stuff – always have: http://anneball.etsy.com. I found a handbag shop that is way cool: http://daphnenen.etsy.com. Dennis Anderson is very inspirational and has wonderful products. He has been so successful on Etsy that he quit his job!: http://dennisanderson.etsy.com.
What do you do in your spare time? Ha! I don’t have spare time. I have been making time to go to the beach lately though and it is time to start thinking about raking leaves and cleaning up the yard.11. Do you have anything else you would like to share? I highly encourage people to shop and sell on Etsy. The sellers and buyers are wonderful and the products are outstanding. If you are a seller, don’t give up. Learn the tricks and eventually it will pay off!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Feature Artist: Zeba
What is your shop name and what do you sell? My shop name is Zeba and I sell one of a kind unique jewelry designed by me.
What is your shop URL? http://zeba.etsy.com
When did you start selling on Etsy? I have been making jewelry for more than two years, but I opened my shop on June 23, 2008 and posted my first listing on July 1, 2008.
What is your favorite thing about Etsy? With all the shops on Etsy, I was expecting a cut throat competitive environment. Instead I found a friendly environment where you truly feel at home. Everyone is eager to help and share their lessons learned. On Etsy, you find people that are passionate about their craft and their main goal is to share their creation not to make a killing profit.
What is your favorite thing about what you sell? There are three things that I love about making jewelry.
1) I don't like to make the same thing twice. The journey for me is the creative process. To be able to create something new every time. With so many materials and methods available for making jewelry, I feel I can create a unique item for the rest of my life.
2) I enjoy showing off my creations. It is easy to show off your jewelry, it does not require a gallery; all you have to do is wear it. Every time, someone asks me `Where did you buy that', I get a great joy from saying `I made it myself'.
3) Last but not least favorite, is being able to express myself in many ways. I can be serious, funky, colorful, contemporary, classic or just playful.
What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? I feel like they are all my children and I love them all. But if I have to pick a favorite, then I say the Sterling Silver Flower bracelet at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14400432.
People often ask me "how did you think of this or that idea". They often say, they can not sit down and come up with a design. Oddly enough, my answer is "neither can I". This bracelet is a perfect example of my response. I had made the chain and I needed to attach it to a focal point, but I had no idea what. Then one day I was sitting at my desk and was playing with a couple of wire coils that I had made. And all of a sudden I saw the flower pattern emerging. So, I rushed to my workshop, and started creating the flower pattern. It took a few tries and made changes due to the fact that wire and fire have a mind of their own. But I have to say I am proud of the end result and I can say `I made that'.
What teams do you belong to? Etsy west Michigan, Michigan Indie Crafters of Etsy and Jewelry Design Shops on Etsy
What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Participate in my team activities and sharing my pictures with other groups on flicker.
What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy?
~ I really like the `rise and shine' Necklace by `BethMillner's shop'. The piece is well made with simple well composed design.
~ I found the `Garden Party' by cottonseed's shop very clever and original. The colors and the composition are stunning. ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14109423)
~ The `For The Love Of Peace' by willowmoonspirit's shop is intriguing. The color combination is very nice, and the bird is such a unique addition.
~ The `Amethyst necklace' by twistedlolly's shop. A woven piece very nicely done. It is a sophisticated design, and is done with my favorite stone, amethyst.
What do you do in your spare time? Making jewelry takes up most of my spare time. The rest I help my husband with our kitchen renovation. He is making the cabinets and I am making the stained glass inserts for the doors. Although, lately making jewelry has taken up most of my time.
Do you have anything else you would like to share?
Just one thing for everyone to remember "Find what you love to do and do it"
What is your shop URL? http://zeba.etsy.com
When did you start selling on Etsy? I have been making jewelry for more than two years, but I opened my shop on June 23, 2008 and posted my first listing on July 1, 2008.
What is your favorite thing about Etsy? With all the shops on Etsy, I was expecting a cut throat competitive environment. Instead I found a friendly environment where you truly feel at home. Everyone is eager to help and share their lessons learned. On Etsy, you find people that are passionate about their craft and their main goal is to share their creation not to make a killing profit.
What is your favorite thing about what you sell? There are three things that I love about making jewelry.
1) I don't like to make the same thing twice. The journey for me is the creative process. To be able to create something new every time. With so many materials and methods available for making jewelry, I feel I can create a unique item for the rest of my life.
2) I enjoy showing off my creations. It is easy to show off your jewelry, it does not require a gallery; all you have to do is wear it. Every time, someone asks me `Where did you buy that', I get a great joy from saying `I made it myself'.
3) Last but not least favorite, is being able to express myself in many ways. I can be serious, funky, colorful, contemporary, classic or just playful.
What is your favorite item in your own shop and why? I feel like they are all my children and I love them all. But if I have to pick a favorite, then I say the Sterling Silver Flower bracelet at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14400432.
People often ask me "how did you think of this or that idea". They often say, they can not sit down and come up with a design. Oddly enough, my answer is "neither can I". This bracelet is a perfect example of my response. I had made the chain and I needed to attach it to a focal point, but I had no idea what. Then one day I was sitting at my desk and was playing with a couple of wire coils that I had made. And all of a sudden I saw the flower pattern emerging. So, I rushed to my workshop, and started creating the flower pattern. It took a few tries and made changes due to the fact that wire and fire have a mind of their own. But I have to say I am proud of the end result and I can say `I made that'.
What teams do you belong to? Etsy west Michigan, Michigan Indie Crafters of Etsy and Jewelry Design Shops on Etsy
What is the most fun thing you do to promote your shop? Participate in my team activities and sharing my pictures with other groups on flicker.
What are some of your favorite finds by other sellers on Etsy?
~ I really like the `rise and shine' Necklace by `BethMillner's shop'. The piece is well made with simple well composed design.
~ I found the `Garden Party' by cottonseed's shop very clever and original. The colors and the composition are stunning. ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14109423)
~ The `For The Love Of Peace' by willowmoonspirit's shop is intriguing. The color combination is very nice, and the bird is such a unique addition.
~ The `Amethyst necklace' by twistedlolly's shop. A woven piece very nicely done. It is a sophisticated design, and is done with my favorite stone, amethyst.
What do you do in your spare time? Making jewelry takes up most of my spare time. The rest I help my husband with our kitchen renovation. He is making the cabinets and I am making the stained glass inserts for the doors. Although, lately making jewelry has taken up most of my time.
Do you have anything else you would like to share?
Just one thing for everyone to remember "Find what you love to do and do it"
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Come on over and check us ous!
Wondering who the Etsy West Michigan Team is? There are several ways to check us out...
1) click on the links to our stores over to the right
2) go to http://www.etsy.com and do a search by tags for etsywmi
1) click on the links to our stores over to the right
2) go to http://www.etsy.com and do a search by tags for etsywmi
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