Etsy West Michigan

Getting to Know WhatCirca

2011-11-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

For 5 years WhatCirca has been on Etsy selling an eclectic mix of vintage clothing and accessories as well as wedding accessories like personalized hangers for wedding gowns, hair accessories, and belts and sashes. She started her shop on Etsy because of her passion for vintage items and it remains as the bulk of her shop.

About her style - Eclectic. I like anything that I have not seen before and I am sucker for anything with lace.

Her other gig - I am the main contributor for another local blog for September's Bride, a Bridal Boutique in Downtown Holland. I write the blog for our vintage couture collection. We restyle heirloom gowns for brides and also have an inventory of our own that are available in the boutique for purchase.

Favorite thing about West Michigan - The change of the four seasons. Just when I am getting a little tiresome of one, it changes!

For the Little Ones

2011-11-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

(clockwise from top left)

Apple and Pear Tunic Dress by Marcellas3Monkeys

Pirate Monkeys Flannel Rag Edge Quilt by 2CraftyChix

Organic Toddler Tshirt by LEFTright

Bright Flower Bobby Pins by HoneyWillowDesigns

Patchwork Baby Bib by delainie

Click here to see the complete treasury from MariaSoleil

Michigan Fashion

2011-10-06T10:50:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from left)

Black Thumbhole Top by joclothing

Rock Crystal Quartz Ring by RareDesign

Hand Knit Circle Scarf by fieldstudy

Black Leather Ankle Boots by LoveCharles

Halloween

2011-10-04T11:00:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Green Eyeball Earrings by TabbyCatCariactures

Flower Headband by SimplySweetStudio

Witch Rag Doll by BelindasGarden

Decorative Ball Home Decor by JulieAndCo

Ponytail Holders by MomNMiaQuilts

Halloween Gift Tags by MariaSoliel

Michigan Fashion

2011-09-08T08:45:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Leather Headband from Hende

Oversized Knit Sweater Coat from OldGoldVintage

Copper Wired Cuff Bracelet by TheBeadGirl

Silver Black Crop Top Shirt from NutnichaDresses

Pretty Little Thing

2011-09-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Sisters necklace by JustJaynes

Fawn Deer Plush by YellowHorseArtStudio

Decorative Temari by JulieAndCo

Blank Book by MapleStreetPaperCo

Women's Slippers by GoodLittleThings

Michigan Fashion

2011-09-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Embroidered Lace Blouse from GoodieTrueVintage

Dainty Diamonds Antique Brass Necklace by CandyCrack

Wrap Skirt by MiloCreativeStudios

Vintage 70s Gray Leather Oxfords from OldGoldVintage

Teal

2011-08-29T10:00:00.002-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Teal Stained Glass Business Card Holder by BelloGlass

Little Anna Skirt by SewManyFreckles

Set of 2 Cards Mod Happy Birthday by sincerelyYOU

Office Butterflies in Flight by mybutterflyheaven

Double Layer Crochet Flowers by NeedlePointNMore

Groovy Guitars Boutique Bib by MomNMiaQuilts

Michigan Fashion

2011-08-25T11:00:00.001-04:00

(clockwise from left)

Vintage 1950s Sundress from SmallEarthVintage

Antique Straw Hat from HazeyJaneVintage

Peachy Glass Pearl Earrings by HoneyWillowDesigns

Vintage Beaded Sandals from WoollyMammothVintage

Fly Away

2011-08-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

(clockwise from top left)

Let Go 8x10 Print by SomeOddGirl

Itty Bitty Hot Air Balloon Studs by CatherineMarissa

Tweet Yellow Birds Ponytail Holders by MomNMiaQuilts

Organic Cotton Baby Bib Paper Airplane by LEFTright

Teacup Pincushion Japanese Temari by JulieAndCo

Gift Tags Blue Polka Dot Priceless by MariaSoleil

Can you feel it?

2011-06-23T10:04:00.002-04:00

By FromTheHeartPillows

Ode to the Manke

2011-06-22T19:04:00.001-04:00

By Lashelle of mybutterflyheaven

Etsy West Michigan June Treasury Challenge

2011-06-21T13:02:00.003-04:00

This animal treasury is brought to you by Sally Manke.

To view the entire collection, click on the picture!

Etsy West Michigan June Treasury Challenge

2011-06-20T13:56:00.004-04:00

This month's treasury is all about Texture! Sally Manke won the last treasury challenge, so one of her items is in each treasury.

SallyManke
Something smooth
Something shiny
Something fuzzy
Something bumpy
Something rough
Something silky
Something wet
Something sharp
Something fluffy
Something velvety
Something creamy
4 extras!

Want to see the whole treasury? Click on the photo!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-09T16:24:00.000-04:00

1. Handmade Button Porcelain by paperpeacock

2. Seaside Handmade Cold Processed Soap by HiveMamaSoap

3. Paris in the Spring Crown Gift Tags by MariaSoleil

4. Macaroni Picnic - Handspun Wool Cocoon by OrganicMamas

5. Butterflies in Flight by MyButterflyHeaven

Click here to see the complete treasury from CatherineMarissa

Simple SEO: Shop Title

2011-05-02T06:00:00.002-04:00

Classic To/From Gift Tags by CoraAnneDesigns

When you enter a shop on Etsy what is it that you first see? Most likely, it's the visuals. The banner. Product photos. After the first impression - you start some reading. The shop title, shop announcement, and shop sections are three tidbits that you can control on your shop home page to help get customers to your site and let them know what your shop is about. We're just going to start with the Shop Title as short and sweet bits of SEO are best.

Your shop title is the short intro that shows up at the top left of your shop home page. It is also included in the page title and in search engines. You only have about 66 characters (according to Etsy) that will show up in Google results so here you want to be concise yet convey your shop and its offerings. You will obviously want to mention your product. You can choose to be very specific like "sock monkeys" or general like "jewelry" depending on what items you create. For the rest of your shop title include style terms, your shop name, or a phrase that communicates something personal about your shop.

Modern and simple sterling silver jewelry for everyone

Kat's Krafts: Unique Cootie Catcher Wedding Favors

Rag rugs and wool products fresh from our farm to you

Fabulous and Feminine Bridal and Hair Accessories

Your shop title may be one small part of bringing traffic to your shop via SEO, but it's an important one that should be used to introduce your business. What's your shop title?

Mother's Day Gift Guide

2011-04-30T15:00:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day Card from Articulations

Mother's Day is coming up quickly (just over 1 week away!) If you've procrastinated it's time to shop local. Shopping local on Etsy often means you can get your items in 2-3 days and, of course, helps local individuals. Here are a variety of gifts to choose for Mom so you can find just the right one.

Peach Copper and Sage Green Necklace by AbacusBeadCreations - $76

She deserves it, right? So indulge Mom with this intricate necklace strung by hand in sweet shades of peach, copper and sage green beads. This versatile necklace can be worn with or without the matching porcelain pendant. Soft, earthy colors that blend with so many clothing styles this season. And sure to look classic for years to come.

Large Stirring Mixing Spoon by BurlChaser - $65

If you like this large Bocote spoon you should buy it before my mom sees it! Her spoon jar is overflowing with beautiful handmade spoons. It just seems like there is always room for one more!

Mother's Day Gift Basket by CindysSuds - $29.95

This Mother's Day, why not treat Mom to a wonderful gift basket of homemade soap, lip balm and body butter. Give Mom a little pampering, you know she won't treat herself! She'll love how soft her skin will feel after showering with handmade soap and indulging her skin in Body Butter and Lip Balm. She'll feel special and loved knowing you thought of her!

Fused Candle Shelter by giapet - $16

Brighten up your Mom's day with this Glass Candle Shelter. Just place this unique shelter in front of a small pillar or votive candle and watch the light dance through the glass. Great mood lighting for a romantic evening too! Made from high quality art glass, shipped directly from the artist with love.

Beaded Embroidered Thread Ball by JulieandCo - $40

This hand embroidered Japanese thread ball, known as temari, is an incredibly unique and special gift for Mom this year! Embellished with glittering woodland colored beads and embroidered over glittering gold metallic thread, this decorative ball is perfect for any decor and can be displayed alone on a candle holder, or in a basket with other decorative balls, or simply set over a mantle. This is an ancient folk art presented in modern style.

Jade Beach Glass Pendant and Companion Stone by lhsblack - $15

What a perfect gift for the beautiful Mom in your life. This gorgeous jade beach glass and speckled beach stone would look stunning as a simple yet elegant necklace. Just add a couple jump rings and slide it onto a leather cord and voila! Happy Mother's Day!

Recycled Butterfly Room Decor by MyButterflyHeaven - $25

Butterflies come in all shapes, sizes and colors - just like our mothers. Give her a gift that speaks without saying a word with this butterfly room decor.

Mother's Day Flower Brooch by ObrienObjects -$16

As a kid, I remember my dad giving my mom a Mother's Day corsage every year and after a few days the pretty flowers wilting and turning brown. So now instead of a corsage that will only last a few days and only be in vogue on Mother's Day, my porcelain flower brooches are year round stylish and artifact lasting. Plus they are perfect for mothers who like more contemporary styled adornments that require no watering or refrigeration.

Coiled Rope Upcycled Basket/Planter by SallyManke - $32

Delight mom with this bright green Coiled Rope Planter on Mother's Day. You can both celebrate a "green" holiday with this "green" colored basket constructed from all cotton "green" batik scraps from my quilting studio that are wrapped around recycled "green" cotton clothesline, Next plant it with mom favorite herbs for healthy meals and fewer trips to the market. This is the only clothesline she needs to bring enjoyment on this special day.

Upcycled Decoupage Box by Squatting Gypsy - $15

This recycled little piece of art is a great Mother's Day gift, because not only can you give her gift in it, she can also keep it on her vanity or desk to keep all her little keepsakes in, such as: jewelry, bobby pins, paperclips, mechanical pencil lead, erasers, post-it-notes or whatever.

2011-04-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

Crafty Moms, Cool Shopping: woodtv.com

Check out some of our members' items on EightWest yesterday and this Saturday in person at the Handmade in the Grand Trunk Show!

Strike a Pose

2011-04-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

Sterling Silver Photographers Camera by JustJaynes

We all know that photography is the most important aspect of selling online. Your photos have to catch the customer's eye and answer any questions they may have. To be appealing yet informative your photos should be clear, convincing, and cohesive. Your background can support all of these goals. It can make your product stand out, add visual interest, and tie your shop together as a whole.

How can a background take your photography to the next level?

Happy Easter

2011-04-23T16:21:00.000-04:00

1. Phat B Style Bunny by YellowHorseArtStudio

2. Little woven metal Easter basket by ModernPoetry

3. Peekaboo bunny ponytail holder by GirlsLikeTrucks

4. Large Easter Egg Wreath by MidnightOilWreaths

Incorporating Trends: Merchandising Notes

2011-04-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

Custom Vintage Typewriter Key Ring Initial by luv4sams

Every month Etsy releases its merchandising notes outlining just what styles, trends, and topics they'll be promoting for the following month. When the article comes out it's a great idea to go through and see which keywords apply to your items. You can add those keywords to relevant listings as tags. This is what Etsy thinks people will be searching for and what they'll be looking to get on the front page.

A few keywords from this month's notes that would fit luv4sams' ring are personalization, vintage fashion, typewriters, and letters. This week take a few minutes to check out the article for May and add relevant trending tags to your shop.

Pale Pink and Charcoal

2011-04-13T18:06:00.000-04:00

1. 8.5 x 11 Handmade Paper Pink Luster Pack by MapleStreetPaperCo

2. Poppy Headband by TheElegantElle

3. Pretty Spark Pink Bow Shoe Clips by PixelandHank

4. Gray Shimmer Hand-Dyed Polish Star Ornament by CranetteCreations

Click here to see the complete treasury by BlueGuppy

Social Media: Choosing a Platform

2011-04-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

Friends Rock Greeting Card from SomeOddGirl

As Etsians we are constantly hearing that we should be participating in social media. Not only should we be on Facebook and Twitter, but Tumblr, StumbleUpon, Flickr, Kaboodle, Pinterest, Ning, and YouTube. Maybe that's an exaggeration, but you don't have to do it all. You don't have to do any of it if you don't want. Social media is only one aspect of marketing and it's up to you to decide if it fits into the overall scheme for you and your shop. If you decide to move forward, start small. Find one platform to use and once you're comfortable there, maybe add another.

When you're just starting up it's easiest to go with one of the larger, more well-known sites like Facebook or Twitter. Essentially these sites work the same sharing information like pictures, listings, upcoming shows, and random tid bits. How you interact in these communities is very different, however, so do your research before making a decision.

If you're looking to grow your social media presence, it's time to branch out into sites which will allow you to reach a more specific market. If you take great photos, sharing them on Flickr is a great idea. Here you can add your images to specific groups for interested users to see. Ravelry is a site dedicated to knitters and crocheters. DeviantArt is for artists to share their work in various media like photography, digital art, and traditional art forms. Kaboodle is a social shopping site. There are hundreds more, so with a little searching you can find one for you.

For your homework, first, decide if social media is right for you. Decide if you have the time and want to make the effort to participate in these communities. Secondly, if you decide to dive in or take on more, do some research to pick out the platform that best fits you. Let us know what you choose!

Little Bit of Sunshine

2011-04-07T10:00:00.000-04:00

1. Party Pack of Simple Flower Rings by JustJaynes

2. Paper Dolls Bean Bags Set by ABShoppe

3. Handmade Necklace with Stoneware Robin Pendant by AliceHuntStudio

4. Delicate Drops 14k gold filled earrings by CatherineMarissa

Click here to see the complete treasury by MariaSoleil

Hello Spring

2011-04-06T14:06:00.001-04:00

1. Sleeveless Wrap Cardigan Baby Blue by MiloCreativeStudios

2. Simply Beauty Butterfly Tags by MariaSoleil

3. Pandora Style Lampwork Glass Bead by giapet

4. Birdcage Walk Recycled Designer Wallpaper by VidaDesigns

Click here to see the complete treasury by CatherineMarissa

Simple SEO: In-bound Links

2011-04-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

Sterling Silver Keep Calm Carry On Charm Necklace by JustJaynes

Oh no! It's that ever confusing, overwhelming acronym - SEO! Don't worry. Keep calm. We're going to work through this together. While SEO is a complex topic there are some simple ways to help improve your Etsy shop's search-ability.

Let's back up one second. What is SEO? Search Engine Optimization. In the broadest sense it is a tactic for how we can fine tune our shops to help customers find us via search engines like Google and Bing.

One aspect of SEO is in-bound links. These are links found all over the web that lead to your shop. You want to have these - lots of these. When a search engine sees that there are links going into your shop, it builds your shop's credibility. It shows that people find your shop interesting and relevant and can bump your shop up in search results.

Here's what we do here on the blog to help your in-bound links. Every member shop with 5+ items has an EtsyMini under our Members List tab. 1 link. Every time we feature a team treasury you've made there is a link to your shop. 1 more link. Each time you have an item in one of those mini treasuries there are 2 links - one to the item and one to your shop.

Now, here is what you can do this week. Insert links to your shop within your shop. Yes - these count! There are a lot of ways to do this, but one of the easiest is to end each of your item listings with a simple statement like "continue shopping here" with a link to your shop home page. If you want to go above and beyond try incorporating links into your profile, shop policies, and even shop announcement. Remember, these links can connect to anywhere in your shop and still benefit SEO. That includes to your profile, policies, listings, and shop sections.

Off to do your homework and be sure to report back! Look for a new task every Monday.

What to do when sales are slow

2011-04-02T09:45:00.000-04:00

A question was posed in our weekly chat thread. “What do you do when sale are slow?” So I started the next thread with that topic and many teammates contributed! Here are the responses.

LaShelle of MyButterflyHeaven says to work on new ideas, retake less than quality pictures, organize your work space, etc.

Maria of MomNMiaQuilts
The most important thing you can do is keep at it. If you have a lag, take advantage of the time to build up your inventory, improve your pictures, advertise outside of Etsy. If you don't have new items to list, then renew a few things each day. I know a lot of people don't like to do that, but I can tell you that it definitely works for me.

Carla of CarlasInspirations says
Find new avenues to promote outside of Etsy to bring people in.

Cathy of JustJaynes list includes:
Brainstorm blog ideas

Brainstorm newsletter ideas
Build my newsletter list
Converse and promote on Twitter
Check tags and description
Redesign or markdown items that haven't sold

Laura of ShowerTreatSoap
My tip would be to sell on more than one venue if you can. Craft shows, online, in a store, fundraisers, maybe even wholesale.

Julie of CelebrateToday says
My biggest tip lately is to look for new ideas that get you excited again.

Nicole of LEFTright:
I'm new at all this, so when I have slow times I'm reading advise from other sucessful shops as well as working on new products. SEO, product descriptions, photography... so much to learn! I think if you have a blog it is a good time to post tutorials or contests to drive traffic to your shop.

CatherineMarissa:
when sales are slow - - I get off the computer. :) I pull out some of my old materials and try to think of new ways to use them. I might take some new photos or consider items I could remove from the shop to streamline it.

Peg of Abacusbeadcreations:
For me it's retaking pictures. That's a never ending struggle. And also, I'd say it's a good time to catch up on all the boring bookkeeping and inventory work that always gets put at the bottom of the list. It's always horrible to tackle months of that stuff at a time, so I try to work on it a couple times a month.

RECTurnings expanded into creating supplies for other sellers.

Janice of 2CraftyChix says:
I have no true downtime. I am making inventory for the up coming shows. I have taken the time to take pics and add listings. I did not do that as much last year and I do have better sales this year from it.

Debbie of NewBagsByAnOldBag says
In my downtime I usually work on stocking up products for the craft shows coming up.

Melissa of Rainwaterstudios says
I blog, twitter, facebook and offer giveaways when my sales are slow. Don't make the giveaways so complicated that no one wants to participate though, 3 steps is good, like ~ become a fan or like me on facebook, twitter, leave a comment on my blog, add yourself to my circle on etsy, things like that help.

Kristie of Beadenchanting says
I haven't had a sale since the beginning of January, but i have been keeping busy with other aspects of my "hobby" (jewelry making, that is): making more jewelry, learning as much as possible about facebooking, etsy, reading about marketing, promoting,....

SallyManke gave us this great tip!
I also carry one of my bags then capture anyone who makes a comment, do a 30 commercial and pop a business card in their hands. Hubby keeps my business cards in his wallet as well.

We hope some of these suggestions inspire you to try a new form of promoting your shop and selling more of your awesome handmade goods!

A Spring Day

2011-03-31T20:43:00.000-04:00

1. Bustin Out 3D Yo Yo Flower Garden by mybutterflyheaven

2. Blue Carnival Glass Candy Box by FreshlyOld

3. Honey Almond Milk Soap from HiveMamaSoap

4. Butterflies and Flower Flannel Rag Edge Quilt by 2CraftyChix

Click here to see the complete treasury from ShadySideFarm

Aqua and Lime

2011-03-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

1. Groovy Guitar Fabric Boutique Ball Rattle Toy by LittleThingsBoutique

2. Aqua and Blue Zircon Multistrand Necklace by abacusbeadcreations

3. Green Chandelier Folded Tags by CoraAnneDesigns

4. Warm Hands Pocket Warmers Lime Green by FirstFruitsLLC

Click here to see the complete treasury by SewManyFreckles

Titillating Temptations

2011-03-15T11:00:00.000-04:00

1. Teal Duotone Trinket Bowl Trio by DelightedHands3113

2. Sterling Silver Peace Pennant Earrings by JustJaynes

3. Riley Floral Boutique Bib by MomNMiaQuilts

4. Vintage Inspired Teal Aqua Flower Necklace by CelebrateToday

5. Wool/Nylon DK Weight Handdyed Sock Yarn by ShadySideFarm

6. Ivory with Silver Tips SunStar Ornament by CranetteCreations

Click here to see the complete treasury by MyButterflyHeaven

Getting to Know BarbarasQuilts

2011-03-12T10:00:00.001-05:00

Children's Quilt Purple with Bright Fun Squares by BarbarasQuilts

You guessed it - we're meeting Barbara from Barbara's Quilts today. Barbara has been quilting for over 18 years and it shows through the beauties in her shop. In addition to her Etsy shop, Barbara has a brick-and-mortar store in Cedar Springs called Garden Path Quilts offering quilting supplies, classes, and products from local artisans.

About her products - I hand make lap-size quilts, baby quilts, and quilted wall hangings. Some of the wall hangings are miniatures! I love to make all kinds of quilt designs. You'll find bold colors, muted colors, simple designs, and appliques.

Her top favorite anything - My family! Which includes dh, daughter and hubby, son, and two miniatures doxies - Duke and Emma.

More craftiness - Since I own a quilt store and do a lot of sewing and teaching classes, I need my own down-time. Scrapbooking is my down-time. A different way of being creative!

Just Around the Corner

2011-03-09T09:00:00.004-05:00

1. Horse of Course Tag Along Blanket by yellowhorseartstudio

2. Vibrant Purple SunStar Polish Star Ornament by CranetteCreations

3. Yowza Yellow Pocket Mirror by luv4sams

4. Vegan Cold Process Olive Oil Soaps by ShowerTreatSoap

5. Recycled Multi Color Double Butterfly Wall Decor by MyButterflyHeaven

6. Butterfly Altered Clipboard by MariaSoleil

Click here to see the complete treasury by OneHauteHostess

Oh How I Love Thee

2011-03-04T13:00:00.001-05:00

1. Organic Cotton That's How I Roll Onesie by LEFTright

2. Ceramic Buttons Set of Three by paperpeacock

3. Under the Fence Arabian Horse Print by CindyPriceArt

4. Vintage Inspired Caramel Brown Lotus Flower Necklace by CelebrateToday

5. Paul - Fabric Flower and Wheat Boutonniere by PixelAndHank

Click here to see the complete treasury by JaspersRomance

Treasures From Michigan

2011-02-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

1. Chocolate Brown Fabric and Chenille Boutique Bib by LittleThingsBoutique

2. Stuffed Animal Sock Monkey by TheMonkeyShop

3. Shore Breeze Soy 18oz Jar Candle by BlissCandles

4. Silver Feather Earrings by BrooksJewels

5. Textured Glass Pearl Necklace Spring Colors by nixydesigns

Click here to see the complete treasury from CelebrateToday

February Challenge

2011-02-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

1. Good Morning Sunday Cardigan by MyFavoriteSweater

2. 11 Piece Vintage Wooden Salad Bowl Set by SweetMossVintage

3. Baby Blue Stained Glass Pendant by BelloGlass

4. Lake Michigan Sunset by WatercolorsByWayne

5. Little Drops of Heaven Necklace by SealedWithKS

6. Silver Crystals Round Wrist Watch by WatchTimeFly

7. Snowing Down South Vintage Slip by PleasandPeninsula

8. Triple Ruffle Tights for Girls Pattern by DreamSpunKids

9. Stella Felted Ruffle Scarf by LolettaDesigns

Click here to see the complete treasury by JustJaynes

Getting to Know First Fruits LLC

2011-02-21T09:00:00.003-05:00

Pick any 12 jars of Jam, Jelly, or Butter from First Fruits

It's time to meet Bonnie from First Fruits LLC. Bonnie keeps plenty busy in the kitchen making treats like cookies, homemade marshmallows, and canned goods and selling at several markets through the year. You can find all of these in her shop along with a few other crafted items.

About her kitchen - I love being in the kitchen. My craft area is actually a part of my regular kitchen. To me it is the center of the home.

Her favorites - Chocolate, Fruit, Baking. (Not too surprising, right?)

Besides creating - I love spending time with my family. Taking walks, camping, reading, having fun.

Locally you can find Bonnie in the winter at The Mercato in Building 50 in Traverse City on Saturdays from 10am-2pm or in Homespun Antiques & Crafts in Gaylord. In the summer she is at the Gaylord Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Bellaire Farmer's Market on Fridays and on Thursdays at the Mancelona Farmer's Market.

Challenge in Green

2011-02-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

1. A Touch of Romance Chandelier Earrings by WendyBethCreations

2. Jade Beach Glass Pendant and Companion Stone by lhsblack

3. Candy Scoops Set of 3 Customize Your Color by OneHauteHostess

4. Tote Bag by NewBagsByAnOldBag

Click here to see the complete treasury from DesignsByLaShelle

Darker Days

2011-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

1. Champagne Pirate Skull and Crossbones Ring by FireGrog

2. Dahlia Fabric Flower Statement Bib Necklace by FreshMetal

3. Champagne Butterfly Crystal Bookmark by DesignsByLaShelle

4. Destiny Up Close 4x6 Matted Print by NewLeafDesigns

5. Momento Mori Skull Cameo Bow Victorian Earrings by GypsyMoonArt

Click here to see the complete treasury by WendyBethCreations

Think Spring

2011-02-03T14:00:00.002-05:00

1. Hand Carved Pottery Serving Platter by AnneMariesPottery

2. Teal Duotone Trinket Bowl Trio by DelightedHands3113

3. Wristlet/Clutch Gran N Go by NewBagsByAnOldBag

4. Stuffed Animal Sock Monkey by TheMonkeyShop

5. Warm Hands Pocket Warmer - Lime Green by FirstFruitsLLC

6. Love You Card Valentine by Articulations

Click here to see the complete treasury from OneHauteHostess

Treasury Hunt

2011-01-31T11:00:00.001-05:00

1. White Howlite Nursing Bracelet by OrganicMamas

2. 1.3 oz Combed Corriedale and Icicle Top for Spinning by YarntoSpin

3. The Sweetheart Rose Fabric Flower Mini Bib Necklace by FreshMetal

4. Homemade Marshmallows - 1 dozen by FirstFruitsLLC

5. Mandarin Cranberry Bliss Soy 12oz Candle by BlissCandles

Click here to see the complete treasury by OneHauteHostess

Soothing Blues

2011-01-26T13:00:00.001-05:00

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes by TrilliumStudios

2. Winter White Mittens for Him by FeltSassy

3. MaryJane Sleep Sack for 0-6 Months by KimScherer

4. Pot Holder Set by NeedlepointNMore

Click here to see the complete treasury from BySaraLynn

Fun and Games

2011-01-21T12:00:00.002-05:00

1. Dark Chocolate Decadence by MySweetSerendipity

2. Purple and White Felted Flower Barrette by DreamWhimsy

3. Brown and Pink Swirls Altered Clipboard by MariaSoleil

4. Handwoven Rag Rug - Corduroy - 26x62 by ShadySideFarm

5. Makeup Bag by IslandGirlBags

Click here to see the complete treasury from SewManyFreckles

West Michigan Menagerie

2011-01-12T10:00:00.002-05:00

1. Medium Sock Monkey from TheMonkeyShop

2. Sweet Somethings Turquoise Flower Ring from TheElegantElle

3. Frogs in a Garden Flannel Rag Edge Quilt from 2CraftyChix

4. Owl Stampede Set of 5 1" Button Magnets from TheEmptyNest

5. Beaded Letter Opener - Orange and Green from OneHauteHostess

6. Sea Foam Hand Embroidered Thread Ball from JulieandCo

Click here to see the complete treasury from DesignsByLaShelle

Getting to Know Mom N Mia Quilts

2011-01-09T12:48:00.002-05:00

Boutique Burp Cloth and Bib Gift Set by Mom N Mia Quilts

Maria from Mom N Mia Quilts is the woman behind the sewing machine. After the day job, time with her family, and rooting on the Spartans, Maria finds time to put into her business making high quality, affordable baby items, gifts, and more for modern moms and kids. She creates a wide variety of items for the kiddos in great fabrics. She also designs and makes custom quilts and bedding.

On her start - I've been sewing since I was young, and taught myself how to quilt. Many of the items you'll find for sale in the store were inspired by my own children or my many nieces and nephews. All of my items are handmade from the highest quality materials, and are made with care and love.

Her favorite anythings - Pretty fabric, reading and sunny days.

Around the world - I've only been selling on Etsy since March of 2008, but my products appear in over a dozen high-end boutiques across the US and around the world. Currently at 15 high-end boutiques across the US, in Ireland, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and more!

Loving what she does - I love creating quilts and great baby gifts, and I especially love being able to share my creations with others.

Hunting for Treasure

2011-01-06T14:30:00.000-05:00

1. Dusk Dalia Fabric Flower Bib Necklace by FreshMetal

2. Boutique Burp Cloth Set - Limited Edition by MomnMiaQuilts

3. Colorful Fun Button Ring by JustJaynes

4. Blue Waters Lampwork Beads by CosmicZinnia

Click here to see the complete treasury from MariaSoleil

Getting to Know 2 Crafty Chix

2011-01-03T14:22:00.002-05:00

Elephants in Purple and Green Flannel Rag Edge Quilt

Janice is the powerhouse behind 2 Crafty Chix based out of Holland. In her shop you can find her specialty flannel rag edge quilts, but at her shows you'll find a wide range of items including crayon rolls, pacifier clips, chair covers, and bibs. Janice works extremely hard on her business and is happy to call it her full-time job. Janice was kind enough to answer a few questions, so let's hear from her!

On her start - My business started when I wanted to do shows with the person who was formerly my bestest friend. Some where along the way she decided she did not want to do shows together. I kept on doing shows with my mom. I kept the name since I had come up with it. People know my chicken logo and know my product. I have a nice following at craft shows around Michigan.

Some of her favorites - Casablanca, Zoolander, Survivor, House, NCIS, Castle, Green Eggs and Ham, Franny and Zooey, Janet Evanovich, Charlaine Harris, JD Salinger, Elizabeth George, Sue Grafton, U2, and lots of others

About herself - I am somewhat crazy. I am a single lady - I love to have fun. My quilts and other stuff are my full time source of income. I love to do it. I am a hard worker. I like being my own boss and making my way in this world. I love being me - that is what I enjoy most.

Some of her advice - Don't under price your stuff. Your time and materials are worth something. Remember you are NOT A BIG BOX STORE you CANNOT compete with them nor should you want to. Treat your shop like the business it is. It is no longer a hobby when you are putting yourself out there. Read a book about the craft business - there are plenty of them on the market. Go into Barnes and Noble or look on Amazon. Educate yourself in the business aspects of well - running a business.

Getting to Know Y Knot Shop

2010-12-22T11:00:00.001-05:00

Light Blue Polka Dot Tube Hot/Cold Therapy Pad by YKnotShop

When you meet and talk with Jenn from YKnotShop you can tell what's important to her. It's her family and that's what actually got her into making her therapy pads. Jenn's shop is filled with therapy pads for all needs and accessories made with satin cord. Here's more about Jenn and YKnotShop in her own words...

On how she got started - I actually started out on Etsy as MondrysYknotShop for the fleece hats and scarves that I was making. Then my husband at the time was in need of some therapy and I started making my heating pads for him and decided that it would great to help others in pain as well.

What she's working on - Right now I am working on hand warmers and eye masks. I am also working on starting up a line of hand bags. My creativity is all over the place in my mind.

What she enjoys most in life and in West Michigan - My children. My family. They are truly all that keeps me in this place.

Her best advice - Never give up, never stop creating and no matter what anyone says know you ARE the best you can be.

You can find Jenn on Etsy, Twitter, Facebook and at her blog.

Dark Elegance

2010-12-06T11:22:00.001-05:00

1. November Sunset - Felted Wool Fiber Art by julieandco2

2. Dragon Scale Necklace - Brushed Aluminum by unicornsgarden

3. Gray Pearl and Montana Blue Crystal Earrings by abacusbeadcreations

4. Ally - Plum Aubergine Fascinator Headband by TheElegantElle

Kerstmarkt

2010-12-02T10:00:00.035-05:00

Click to Enlarge for Dates and Times

Just before Thanksgiving Day each year, 16 wooden booths appear at the Holland Farmers' Market at 8th and Pine. For three weekends, vendors are open Friday nights and Saturday days selling their handmade Christmas goods. Items include greenery, wooden utensils and boxes, food gifts, chain saw carvings, quilts, rugs, glass ornaments, handmade soaps, pet treats, wool socks and mittens. The market is patterned after the European open-air markets held at Christmastime.

Included in this year's Kerstmarkt are three EtsyWMI team members: 2CraftyChix, YKnotShop, and ShadySideFarm. For a unique holiday shopping experience, come on out to Holland to visit the Kerstmarkt.

Lining Up for These

2010-11-29T10:15:00.002-05:00

1. Temari Pincusion Teacup from JulieandCo

2. Wine Bottle Bling from OneHauteHostess

3. Gabbi - Yellow Flower Headband from TheElegantElle

4. Race Cars Boy Quilt from BarbarasQuilts

Click here to see the complete treasury from BarbarasQuilts

Holiday Sales

2010-11-24T21:30:00.005-05:00

MomNMiaQuilts
5% Off Most Items
From 11/26 to 12/10
Prices Already Adjusted
Bonus Discount for Facebook Fans

HempHelpers
40% Off Everything From 11/26 to 11/29
Plus Free Shipping Until 12/31
Prices Already Adjusted

Just Jaynes
15% Off on 11/26 and 10% Off on 11/29
Plus Free Shipping
Prices Already Adjusted

WhatKnotBags
10% Off All Purchases

Through 12/31

Use Coupon Code: Coupon10

CatherineMarissa
Select Itty Bitty Rings & Studs

Marked Down to $10

Evening of 11/25 to 11/29

New Deals Added Through the Weekend

CelebrateToday
Vintage Inspired Flowers and Crystal
Briolette Pieces $5 Off
Plus Free Shipping 11/22 to 12/31
Prices Already Adjusted

ShowerTreatSoap
10% Off Everything
From 11/26 to 11/20
Prices Already Adjusted

IslandGirlBags
20% Off Everything
From 11/25 to 11/29
Prices Already Adjusted

JulieandCo
$1 Domestic Shipping
Any Size Order in the US
11/21 to 11/29

Getting to Know Designs By LaShelle

2010-11-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

For anyone that has met LaShelle, in person and on Etsy, you know that she is a wonderful and memorable person. She's upbeat and can always make you smile! You can find LaShelle on Etsy and on her Facebook Fan Page. So here's a little more about her and her shop here on Etsy in her own words.

On her crafting mania - I love to add sparkle to anything I create so I use a lot of crystals in my jewelry. Wedding pomanders are so fun, pretty to look at, and so I added those as well. I've also recycled ceramic rocks from my shop and called them 'vibe rock pendants' and, well, you'll really find a mix of just about everything from vintage jewelry to bookmarks. My mania shows.

On her latest project - I've begun making beaded pictures and placing them in shadow boxes. I love my beaded pictures.

What's important to her - My daughters, grandsons, and my sweet husband.

A tip for teammates - Be yourself. Don't worry about what people think of you, because if you're fake they'll know it anyway.

And some thanks - I have appreciated my team so much, and all the help, friendship and support they've given me over the last 3 years.

Sweet and Simple

2010-11-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

1. Sterling Silver Mint Leaf Necklace by JustJaynes

2. Fern Hand Embroidered Thread Ball by JulieandCo

3. Sterling Silver Branch Ring by CatherineMarissa

4. Mossy Lime Reclaimed Ramie Cotton Yarn by DelightedHands3113

5. Candy Scoops - Customize Your Color by OneHauteHostess

See the complete treasury by MariaSoleil here

Getting to Know MariaSoleil

2010-11-17T10:00:00.005-05:00

Christmas Gift Tags in Pomegranate from MariaSoleil

MariaSoleil is an Etsy shop filled with paper goodies like cards and gift tags with a style self described as happy and whimsical, yet functional. Locally, you'll be able to visit her next weekend at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church in Rockford, MI on November 20th. We asked Celene to answer a few questions - so let's hear from the artist herself!

On her craft and supplies - I love to frequent scrapbooking stores (but don't scrapbook!) I am a paper and rubber stamp addict. If I never bought another supply I could keep my shop alive for years.

Her current project - I am getting Christmas tags and cards ready to put into my shop. I also have a nice stock of small altered clipboards that need to get photographed and added.

Outside of Etsy - I love going to the beach in the summer and hibernating in the winter. Some might say that I have an addiction to Disneyworld. I love being a mom and trying to keep up with all that comes with that.

A few words of advice for teammates - Come chat in the team forum with us! Just jump in there and make some noise so we can get to know you. I have learned a lot of tips there, especially about shows and general etsy information. I think to get something out of being on a team you need to participate. Plus, it's fun!

And a random factoid - I was born left handed, on Sweetest Day to 2 crazy hippies back in the '70s. I have evolved from macrame, latch hooked rugs, and batik to where I am now.

Not Ready To Let Go of Fall

2010-11-15T10:00:00.001-05:00

1. Boutique Bib - Bloom Vines in Orange by MomnMiaQuilts

2. Two Bliss Premium Soy 16oz Jar Candles by blisscandles

3. Pumpkin Spice Mittens by FeltSassy

4. Zoe Earrings by AnneOverbeek

5. Autumn Bonfire Hand Embroidered Thread Ball by julieandco

6. Tiger Iron Moukaite Crystal Copper Chunky Bracelet by abacusbeadcreations

7. Colors Beach Stones by lhsblack

8. Magnet Set Black and Red by delainie

See the complete treasury by MariaSoleil here

Breast Cancer Awareness

2010-10-11T09:00:00.003-04:00

1. Find A Cure 9 Inch Single Point Knitting Needles Size 7 by yarn2spin

2. Breast Cancer Awareness Neck/Shoulder Heating Pad by YKnotShop

3. Sterling Silver Awareness Ribbon Studs by CatherineMarissa

They Call Me Mellow Yellow

2010-10-04T10:00:00.001-04:00

1. Zippered Pouch - Mustard Spots by delainie

2. Heavenly Hunk Golden Fossil Pendant by lhsblack

3. Cottolin - Cotton Linen Weaving Yarn or Thread by yarn2spin

4. Glowing Yellow Cab Necklace by WhiskeyGirlJewels

Tips from Your Teammates

2010-09-30T09:00:00.002-04:00

In the past few weekly forum threads our members have had the opportunity to share their tips, questions, and general crafty advice. A couple weeks ago members were asked to share an Etsy tip about anything from listing to promoting. Here's what a few of our fabulous members had to say.

MariaSoliel says, "When I tag, I list all of the colors in the item, and sometimes off names, too (like chocolate for brown). I also tag with my shop's name and of course, etsywmi team. Tagging is how people find your stuff in a search so be sure to use them all!"

YKnotShop says, "My tip, don't stop trying. I know it is hard, but the

harder you work it the more prosperous you are sure to be."

OneHauteHostess says, "I would say look up and see if your items are called something else in another country. I found out that the candy buffets that are so popular at weddings here are called "lolly" buffets in other countries. I've added that to my tags and sold 3 to Australia!"

TheElegantElle says, "My best tip would be to truly renew

or list something new every day. I did it in the months of

July and August and saw a HUGE return.

JulieAndCo says, "Make sure if you have measurements for dimensions, weights, etc. to put it into metric as well for all our overseas shoppers."

AbacusBeadCreations says, "My Etsy tip is to make lots of treasuries. Making treasuries helps get you into treasuries. And that's the only

way to get to the FP of Etsy these days."

DelightedHands3113 says, "Have great, clear, crisp, engaging, irresistible photos in every single photo slot."

ArtPrize with Silvine Photography

2010-09-27T09:00:00.002-04:00

ArtPrize is such a large platform that I definitely knew I wanted my art to convey a message, and an important one. It started with a trip around the world. I lived in Europe, Asia and Africa for almost three years and when I came home I was a different person; I had a new perspective on life. A lot of what I saw was beautiful and some of it was harsh, but the overwhelming message was that we are all the same beneath the surface. We have different lifestyles, different cultures, different religions, but we are all human beings. We need to understand that we are all just a small part of a larger whole and we need to learn to live together peacefully. That’s why at the heart of my art piece there is the message of “Coexist”. It blends together different religious symbols and those of peace and love. The rest of the photographs show different religions (Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism) and different lifestyles (nomadic, rural, urban). I included a photograph of Grand Rapids to show that we too need to be a part in spreading this important message of world peace and tolerance, we can’t simply let others do the work for us. So if you are able, please come to Grand Rapids and check out all the art in this year’s ArtPrize. Each piece is a work of love and labor by the artists and knowing that people are seeing their art and hearing their message is an absolutely amazing experience. You can see my piece, “Coexistence”, at the Ottawa Tavern along with a lot of other great artists.

Find more of Michelle's work on her website and in her Etsy shops.

ArtPrize with Yellow Horse Art Studio

2010-09-25T10:30:00.002-04:00

As a busy mom of 2 kids, ages 2 and 3, I have a long wish list of things to do for myself. This year ArtPrize has offered me one wish off that list. There is nothing that I love more than to work with my hands, whether it is in my shop with my tools, in my studio with my paints, or in my craft room with my sewing machine. My ArtPrize entry is a beautiful mesh of all my loves. It combines my love of woodworking with my love of paining and my afinity for finding God in the lonely places outside. "Febuary" is a 18" wide 48" tall woodcut overlaid with paint and textile that reflects on finding hope in seaons of trial and waiting. It's a deeply personal entry for me since I have often found myself waiting and waiting and waiting. I know the outcome will be good - when it finally gets here, but until then the waiting is lonley, cold and seems eternal. Everyone I know seems to have been in that place, that waiting place. We all know that there's an end, just like spring is just around the corner in Febuary, but here in Michigan that is still 2 to 3 months away. I hope that my piece reflects not only the trying feeling of that waiting time, but also the hope that shines just around the corner. You can view photos of the work in progress as well as the finished piece via my yellowhorseartstudio facebook page - under the ARTPRIZE photo gallery. Photos don't do it justice though - there are so many layers of transparent paint and metallic touches that you really should go down and see it in person at Lena Meijer Heart Center!

Find more of Anneke's work in her Etsy shop.

On a Search

2010-09-20T13:30:00.001-04:00

Today's items were found using the "etsywmi team" tag in Etsy search.

   1. Coconute Heishe and Pearl Necklace with Teal Pendant by AbacusBeadCreations
   2. Long Aque Chalcedony Earrings by CatherineMarissa
   3. Sterling Silver and Blue Bead Charm Necklace by JustJaynes
   4. Midnight Star Hand Embroidered Thread Ball Japanese Temari by JulieandCo

Blueberry Pickin'

2010-08-23T21:06:00.001-04:00

     Deep Dusk Snowflakes Garland Scarf by DelightedHands3113
     Sock Yarn to Go by ShadySideFarms
     Temari Teacup Pincushion by JulieandCo
     Lapis and Silver Men's Ring by UnicornsGarden
     Jet Czech Glass Multi Strand Necklace by AbacusBeadCreations

Pretty in Pink

2010-08-16T11:40:00.001-04:00

1. Mini Messenger Bag by Delainie

2. Poppy Headband by TheElegantElle

3. Sweet Pinks Boutique Burp Cloth Set by MomnMiaQuilts

4. Pretty in Pink Small Hair Bow by RyleesCollection

5. Girls 18M Appliqué Pear Sweatshirt by PerennialPiecer

Team Meeting: August 14, 2010

2010-08-12T13:00:00.001-04:00

We are having a team meeting/photo workshop on Saturday, August 14th at Schuler's Books (10 am) on Alpine Ave in G.R. Please come on out to meet team members, visit, and get your photography questions answer by our own Michelle of SilvinePhotography.etsy.com. She is hoping to explain that white-balance thingy we've all heard about yet don't understand.

For planning purposes, please check the poll over on the Yahoo group and let us know if you're a yes, no or a maybe to attend.

Why you really shouldn't link your Facebook Fan Page and your Twitter accounts

2010-08-07T22:34:00.001-04:00

I know...it seems like a great idea. Link your Fan Page & your Twitter feed...you only need to post once and it gets to both pages. When you post something in your Facebook Fan Page and it shows up simultaneously in your Twitter feed there are several problems I can think of. I'm sure there are more. If you have another pet peeve about this, please let us know by leaving a comment.

What could be wrong with this idea? Well, let me tell you...

TWITTER IS ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS
It's not just pushing out information to your followers. Relationships involve more than 1 person...that means what takes place on Twitter is a conversation between people. OK, not every single tweet is going to be part of a conversation...but if you never have had a conversation on Twitter, you are really missing out. I watch TV shows and tweet back and forth about what's happening with friends.

Problem # 1
If people are both fans on Facebook and Followers on Twitter, they will see the exact same thing 2 times. I know when I have to read duplicates often, I am going to either unlike you on Facebook or unfollow you on Twitter. I don't need to see the same thing twice. Please have some respect for my time.

Problem # 2
You may think that by having your Facebook posts feed into your Twitter account you are making it easier on yourself to be active on Twitter. Reality check - you aren't; you aren't being active on Twitter. Why? Because you aren't having a real conversation with anyone on Twitter.

One of the great benefits to Tweeting are the replies & the interaction you get from others. You can vent, joke, ask questions and you will often get a reply. If you get a reply, and fail to acknowledge it, you have failed. Not only have you failed in simple common courtesy, but also in your purpose for tweeting in the first place. Remember, you are using your Fan Page to promote your business. By failing to have your Twitter-persona acknowledge those people who have taken the time to reply to you, what impression are you leaving with them? Whether intended or not, I think the impression you are leaving is that you can't/won't/don't take the time to thank or respond. Hmmm...if you got this impression from someone you were thinking of buying from, would your intentions change?

Problems # 3
Think about all those folks who are able to see your Twitter feed at work. Think about all those Facebook links you post in Facebook...and therefore in Twitter because you are linking these accounts. Then think about how many companies ban or outright block Facebook at work. Yes, I work at one of these. I see lots of links that look interesting so I click on them (yes, during my lunch hour!) Oops, I've now been taking to a Facebook page! Thanks for taking me where I'm not allowed. If you do this too much, I will unfollow you on Twitter.

Problem # 4
If you link the other way (Twitter feeding into Facebook) it doesn't make sense for those who don't Tweet. What are these status updates that contain the #, @ or RT?

Problem # 5
Facebook & Twitter are 2 different animals. Why would you want to treat them the same? When you post something on Facebook, you do not have the 140 character limitations that are on Twitter. This means the first 140 characters you use on Facebook show up on Twitter...and will probably not make a whole lot of sense. Are you trying to confuse potential customers or friends?

Problem # 6
Links. When you post a link in Facebook, space is no issue and you have the whole website address...and you know how long these can be! When you post a link on Twitter, if it's long, you really really should be shortening it with a tiny url.

So, to sum up...remember this please. Facebook is for telling your friends what you're doing. Twitter is for telling the world what you're doing. What you tell your friends is not the same as what you tell strangers. So please refrain from the "set it and forget it" mentality of this convenient app.

Want to do some more reading and get more opinions?
Why You Shouldn’t Trust Feeds For Social Updates
Don’t Link your Facebook Fan Page and Twitter Statuses

Peridot

2010-08-02T11:03:00.001-04:00

1. Peridot Silver Net Necklace by pennylane495

2. August Birthstone - Personalized Silver Necklace by CelebrateToday

3. Key Lime Pie Natural Olive Oil Castile Soap by BlissCandles

4. Itty Bitty Sterling Silver Branch Studs by CatherineMarissa

More than Words

2010-07-27T12:00:00.002-04:00

What are you?

Crafter. Artisan. Designer. Maker.

What are your items?

Handmade. Homemade. Crafted. Created.

Last week in Scoutie Girl's "We Scout Wednesday" post she asked "how do you define handmade versus homemade?"

No matter which word you choose to define yourself and your items - it's all the same. Well, technically speaking. It gets tricky when you consider that all these words are subjective. Insert one person's perceptions, experiences, connotations and they transform into a whole other monster.

To a "serious" businesswoman calling her items "homemade" could be a slap in the face. They are, after all, fine silversmithed wares. To another equally professional crafter this may be a dear compliment. It means their items are embraced and valued on a personal level.

Last Christmas my half-sister's mother asked her not to spend any money on her for a gift because she would not be able to spend anything on her. During the phone conversation my sister eagerly replied, "Don't worry about it. I made your gift." The other line of the phone was silent for a moment and was quickly followed with "You made my gift?"

Skipping ahead to Christmas day. She opened her gift - a stunning lap quilt made using the many collected ties of her recently passed husband. Needless to say she cried in joy and memoriam and this is arguably her most prized possession.

So why get tied up in words? We're all passionate people creating items we love. We want our items to be valued, used and to impact the lives of those who use them in some small way. Homemade or handcrafted? Who cares. They're just words.

Google Analytics: Time of Visits

2010-07-22T10:27:00.002-04:00

One of the easiest statistics to find on Google Analytics is the number of visits to your site. This is the default graph shown on your GA Dashboard and is the first statistic under Site Usage also on the Dashboard. When you go to the Visitor Overview via the sidebar you can see how many unique individuals make up those visits. But do you know where to go to see when those visits occurred?

You can find this and lots of other information in the sidebar by going to "Visitors" > "Visitor Trending." Under Visitor Trending you can go into subcategories to see your unique visitors, how much time visitors spend on your site, and pageviews. It's under the "Visits" tab that you'll be able to see when people have stopped at your shop.

The default graph for this displays visits according to day. You'll have to click on the small clock icon to display by time.

I also think it's best to expand the date range to get a more accurate result. You can see in the first graph below that there is a slight spike during the 7:00 hour. This is because (thankfully) I was featured on the front page at this hour during the last month. On the right the graph shows the time of visits to my Etsy shop over the course of three months and what is more "typical" for my shop.

Now what can you do with this information? The primary way I use this information is to determine when to list items. The highest traffic in my shop is from 10am to 4pm and again from 9pm to 11pm. I've chosen to ignore the 7am and 8am hours because I know of traffic from the front page at that time that likely skewed results. I'll list during these peak hours and avoid listing during early morning and dinnertime. For some, this might also be an affirmation to keep blogging during those times or promoting on Facebook. If one of my goals was to increase my international views, however, I might choose to list during those early morning hours to increase traffic. Having the information is the first step. After that you can learn to use it to work with your strengths, weaknesses, and your goals.

Finding your Niche

2010-07-21T17:41:00.002-04:00

When sales are slow, sellers are quick to question their pricing, photography, relisting practices, or social networking skills. I think before dealing with any of those issues (all important, by the way) a seller would be wise to spend time finding her niche.

If you have read any articles about developing a craft business, you no doubt have heard about niche before. When I started out selling my jewelry, I read that word over and over and nodded my head. Of course I know my niche, I would think. I sell jewelry. It turns out I did not have a niche at all and my lack of sales could attest to that.

Merriam-Webster defines niche as a “specialized market”. Here are my three tips for creating your niche:

1. Narrow your view

If you are trying to offer something for everyone, stop.

Refine your product focus. If someone asks what you sell, your answer needs to be very specific. To say “I sell jewelry” is not enough. Is your jewelry contemporary and colorful? classic and delicate? modern and sculptural? vintage and ornate?

By narrowing your view to a specific product and style, you are able to attract the customers who really appreciate and want what you offer.

SELLER EXAMPLE

Julie of julieandco is a great example of a seller with a specific focus. A buyer that clicks on one of her temari as it scrolls across the front page arrives in a shop full of temari, essentially a shop full of items the buyer is interested in. Imagine if that same buyer clicked on the temari and found herself in a shop selling temari, mineral makeup, upcycled cork picture frames, and pearl earrings. The buyer might not be interested in most of the shop and will leave. By narrowing her product view, Julie created a shop that is professional and appealing.

2. Be consistent

Once you have narrowed your view, you will need to be consistent. Take the time to evaluate new ideas and determine if they truly fit with the product focus that you selected before you list them in your shop.

For example, if you create paintings that are abstract and brightly colored, resist the temptation to list that pastel still life bouquet you painted over the weekend. It does not fit with what your customers expect. If you feel the need to add a new product to the shop, perhaps you could have your abstract and colorful paintings made into prints, magnets, or calendars that are in line with your style.

With Etsy curating collections based on current trends, it is tempting to try to cover every suggested trend in your shop in hopes of being featured. If trends are consistent with your specialized market, by all means incorporate them. If they are not, resist the urge to add them as they will only clutter your shop.

SELLER EXAMPLE

Lisa of The Empty Nest creates goodies that are youthful, fun, and quirky. Even with a variety of products in her shop (mirrors, necklaces, cufflinks, key chains, etc), she has kept a consistent feel. If you are worried that having a narrow view will make your shop dull, Lisa will prove otherwise. You can add variety within your specialized market and still have a shop with a cohesive look.

3. Stay focused

After you have narrowed your view and filled your shop with a selection of work that is consistent with your specific style, you are ready for what I consider the most challenging step of this process - staying focused on the niche you created.

Attractive and successful galleries know what style they are selling and curate based on the look and feel they aim to achieve. Craft sellers will benefit from this strategy. The “next big idea” can be hard to resist...especially if you see someone else selling it successfully. If you have a new creation or see a new popular product, take the time to evaluate if it fits with your shop’s style.

Does staying focused mean you need to sell the exact same product forever? Absolutely not. Evolution will happen in a shop. It is desirable for a shop to improve and change as the artist develops new skills and interests. Keep in mind, though, that the customer base you built while selling primitive clay figurines probably won’t be interested in your modern, sculptural garden art. To evolve successfully, you should maintain focus on your specific shop style.

SELLER EXAMPLE

Kara of Elysium’s Beach Stone Supplies has a clear product focus maintained on every page of her shop. She sells stones and that is all you will find in her shop (which is a GOOD thing!). Imagine if she started destashing crystals, fabric, vintage books, and scrapbook supplies in this shop. She might have something for everyone, but that would be a turnoff for the buyers who came looking for her lovely drilled stones. Her shop is an excellent example of choosing a product in a specific style, being consistent, and staying focused.

Give it a try - - narrow your view, be consistent, and stay focused!

Thanks so much to Catherine from CatherineMarissa for writing this great article.

For the Men

2010-07-19T11:00:00.004-04:00

   1. Antler handle compact key ring knife by AntlerPens
   2. Personalized Mustache Notecards by ylimepulp
   3. Black Zipper Bracelet by spiritzips
   4. Walnut Pot with a Saddle Stem by HendersonPipes

Google Analytics: Intro and Install

2010-07-14T11:00:00.003-04:00

Google Analytics is a great tool to track so many different statistics related to your Etsy shop, blog, or other site. Here is a screenshot of my Google Analytics homepage. You can see I use mine to watch my own personal (neglected) blog, my Etsy shop, the EtsyWMI blog, and my online porfolio. GA will show you how many visitors are coming to your site, what they're clicking on, how they find your site, where they're from, and so much more. It's easy to get overwhelmed with GA, however, so we'll try to keep it simple here.

To install and use Google Analytics, you'll need a Google account. During the New Account Signup you'll enter your website URL (whether it be your Etsy shop or Blogger blog, pick just one to start with), contact info, and agree to the typical user agreement. At the end there will be tracking info, but I'll show you another place to find that information.

To find your tracking information from the GA homepage, you'll start by clicking on the "Edit" button in line with the site name. From here, click on the "Check Status" button as seen below. At this point you won't have the check mark and "Receiving Data" but that's how you know GA is working correctly once you've installed your codes.

On this page you'll be able to see your Google Analytics Tracking ID which you'll need for Etsy and the html code which you'll need for tracking your Blogger blog. These codes will be different depending on which web site profile you're in. In my case, this is the code for my Etsy Shop so I would only use the top code. When I want the code for my blog, I will go under that profile, or set up a new profile, from the GA home page and use the html code.

Now hop over to Etsy in a new tab. Under "Your Etsy" click on "Web Analytics" in the left sidebar. This is where you'll enter your tracking ID that looks something like this, UA-#######-#. It's easiest to just copy and paste the code over. Don't forget to save.

You're done with the Etsy part! Remember, it'll take 24 hours for Google Analytics to collect and show some data. This is the same for any new site you start to track. Inserting the html code into Blogger is slightly more difficult. In Blogger, navigate to the "Design" tab of your blog and from there click on the "Edit HTML" tab. Use the search feature by pressing Ctrl + F to find "/head" in your template's html code. It is before this piece of coding that you'll paste the code from your Google Analytics page.

Again, remember to save. In another 24 hours you'll be able to check your Google Analytics for traffic to your Etsy shop and Blogger site. If you have any more questions about setting up Google Analytics, try this link to Etsy Help on the subject.

This is just the beginning in a series of posts related to Google Analytics. I'll be showing you how to find answers to specific questions like "What time of day do people most visit my shop?" and "Where does my shop traffic come from?" Do you have any questions you'd like answered with the help of Google Analytics?

Members Monday: Kavali8

2010-07-12T11:00:00.003-04:00

Welcome our new featured seller, Cassi from Kavali8!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.

I am a mother of a 3-year-old and I work from home. I mostly love to create abstract and floral canvas paintings. I also love photography and creating greeting cards.

What are you currently working on?

I'm currently working on a new Poppies Painting.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?

In my free time I usually spend it with family and friends.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?

I would like to sell more of my paintings and maybe have them featured in local galleries or coffee shops.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?

You can find me at Kavali8.etsy.com and sometimes I am at the Fulton Street Artisans Market.

Team Calendar

2010-07-07T15:35:00.031-04:00

In case you haven't noticed, there are a few new things going on around the EtsyWMI blog page. First, a new template. It's been changed for a little while, but I think it's time to point out that it's stunning. We have a wider format great for bigger pictures and two side columns over on the right. Over there you can find a poll, all sorts of links, and a team calendar. The team calendar will highlight events that our members are participating in like weekly markets, craft shows, and the occasional team meet-up. Are there any markets or shows you would like to see added to the calendar? Leave a comment and we'll post it!

Happy 4th of July Weekend

2010-07-02T12:24:00.000-04:00

Have a happy and safe holiday weekend!

Updated Seller Resources Page

2010-06-30T12:30:00.050-04:00

One of the great things about being on the team is that there is an amazing group of people to go to for advice. Here on the Etsy West Michigan blog we want to help, too! That's why a few months ago one of our team leaders, Cathy from JustJaynes, set up the Seller Resources page. This page has recently been updated with more links to info about setting up social media tools, taking great photos, and more.

Here are some links you can find there - How to Effectively Use Social Media, Ten Simple Tips for Success on Twitter, and How to Brighten Your Photos.

What other topics would you like to see in the Seller Resources?

On the Road Again

2010-06-28T11:30:00.005-04:00

1. Entering Memphis- Fine Art Photograph by BlueEyedBadger
2. Slapdash Wallet -- No. 70 by Delainie
3. Sterling Silver Compass Rose Pendant Necklace by Just Jaynes
4. Vehicle Ponytail Holders Fabric Covered Buttons by GirlsLikeTrucks
5. San Francisco California Map Pendant by ChellasCollection
6. Springtime Dogwoods by TrilliumStudios

Team Tag Reminder

2010-06-24T11:30:00.015-04:00

Did you know that our team has a team tag? It's "etsywmi team" and if you're a member, you can use it as one of your 14 tags on as many items as you like. Now, why use one of your valuable tags for EtsyWMI? First, it will help to identify you as an Etsy West Michigan team member. Secondly, it will help teammates to find your items to include in team treasuries like this one I made last night.

Treasuries are a great tool for sharing the wonderful pieces our team has to offer. Some treasuries are lucky enough to be selected by admin and be featured on the front page of Etsy resulting in hundreds of views for those featured!

One final reason to use the "etsywmi team" tag is that we promote it! At opening day of the Fulton Street Artisans Market flyers were handed out teaching shoppers how to search for team items on Etsy. We also have a badge which you can add to your blog or as a photo in your listing to help promote our team.

In addition to searching our team tag, you can see our members and their work by checking out our newly updated EtsyWMI Members Blog and our team profile. For starters, be sure to take advantage of being a member of Etsy West Michigan by using our "etsywmi team" tag in your shop on as many items as you like!

Members Monday: Silvine Photography

2010-06-21T10:37:00.005-04:00

Time for a new featured member! This week it's Michelle from Silvine Photography.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I took many of my photographs while living in and traveling through Europe, Asia and Africa. I loved the different kinds of people I met and the various cultures I experienced. Each one of my photographs is like a candid shot of someone's life in another country. Through my photography I want to erase borders that may exist because of distance, language or misunderstanding. My shop allows me to share different cultures and my experiences with others.

What are you currently working on?
I'm developing a new line of photo greeting cards and travel journals.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
I usually spend my free time brushing up on my languages, cooking or playing tennis.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
In a year, I'd like to see my clientele grow and be able to enter more events so that I can share my art with a wider range of people.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
My website is www.silvinedesigns.com. Otherwise you can find me on Facebook or Twitter. Locally I'll be at the Fulton Street Artisan's Market every Sunday this summer, and in late September I'll be exhibiting at Ottawa Tavern in downtown Grand Rapids for ArtPrize 2010.

Michelle also has a wonderful jewelry shop on Etsy in addition to her photography.

Etsy Craft Party!

2010-06-17T09:53:00.003-04:00

This Friday is Etsy's birthday and they're celebrating by inspiring craft parties all over the world! Etsy West Michigan will be hosting a craft party meet-up and everyone is invited.

The party is this Friday, June the 18th, and will be at Schuler Books on 28th Street in Kentwood starting at 8pm. You can RSVP on Facebook or on MeetUp.com. Feel free to bring your camera & crafts to work on and share. Hope to see you there!

Hello Birdie

2010-06-14T11:00:00.004-04:00

1. Boutique Bib - Starling on White by MomnMiaQuilts
2. Antique Silver Mini Purdy Birdie Earrings by Luv4Sams
3. Birds of a Feather by VidaDesigns
4. Sterling Silver Swallow Necklace by JustJaynes
5. Bird on a Branch Gift Tags - Set of 12 by MariaSoleil

At the Market

2010-06-10T11:00:00.066-04:00

One of the things I anticipate the most about joining the Fulton Street Artisans Market this summer is the fabulous community I feel I will become a part of. LaShelle from Designs By LaShelle really tells it best about how market can be so much more than just a shopping and selling venue.

My name is LaShelle Green of Designs By LaShelle. I was actually the first person to apply and pay for a season spot this year for the Fulton Street ARTisan Market beginning Sunday June 13 from 11-3pm and continuing through the summer, every Sunday through the end of September.

I love people and being creative so after being invited to participate at the Fulton Street ARTisian Market I decided to jump right in with both feet as one of 4 season ARTisians. My rememberences of last year were at first a little scary but soon turned into wonderful. I wasn't sure about how I was going to "tarp" my space, had no idea how to set up my tables and basically, never doing anything like it before, I felt a bit frustrated. But all those feelings turned into rays of sunshine when I attended the market meeting intended to aid those that needed to know how to set up their tarps for shade, etc. I really appreciated that. I also got advice from those in the etsy forum that had been to the market before and I wrote down ideas and began planning how I would pack my car and actually set my tables up at home. This helped immensly.

I used days at the market while sitting behind my table to observe how others sold their items. I also used this time to make back stock while visiting with people next to me, and meeting all the interesting and creative people that walked by. I looked for ways to make someone's day. I made a pair of earrings for a little girl that didn't have any money. I met an older, disabled lady and we became instant friends. I invited her to come behind my table and for the next two Sundays taught her how to make a necklace and earring set. It's not all about making money to me. It's about the friends you make and the hearts that are needing to connect with someone that cares. For me being out at the Fulton Street ARTisian Market isn't about 'stuff' it's about the people. Hope to see you there!

Members Monday: katskrafts

2010-06-07T11:00:00.004-04:00

Katrina from Kat's Krafts is our new featured seller!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.

My name is Katrina and I'm from Holland, MI. I am wife to my darling hubby, Greg, and mother to a rambunctious 10 month old, Caden. When I'm not busying myself in those roles, I am busy with my etsy shop, Kat's Krafts. When I started my shop I was selling handmade cards, scrapbook embellishments, etc. but after I started offering custom cootie catchers 2 years ago, I haven't had time for anything else! So, now my shop is devoted to my cooties and although it's been a bit hard to adjust myself to a different kind of creative outlet, I am excited at the success I've had.

What are you currently working on?
Summer is hyper busy for me - wedding season is in high gear and so am I! My product line has expanded from cootie catcher favors to menus and programs and place cards. Even brochures and invites! I've got a lot of other ideas clanging around up there, too, but it's so hard to find the time to bring those ideas to fruition, photograph them, come up with pricing and list them in my shop right now. So I'm saving them up for fall and winter when things are less hectic. :)

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
I like to spend time with my family. My husband is my best friend, we have so much fun together and my son Caden is just a joy to be around. At 10 months, he keeps us smiling- we are definitely smitten! Aside from my family, I LOVE getting some Starbuck's with my best friend Trish (who has an awesome etsy shop, too- daisysanddots) and shopping or just talking. And my other love is scrapbooking or creating something! I love to lose myself in making something, but those times are so few and far between now as a mommy and business owner.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
I would love for my product line to have expanded with some of the ideas I've got right now. I would love to have my business model for wholesale of my designs set in stone and partnerships made with the many vendors who have inquired about offering my products, but that I've put off for the time being and I would love to have an employee to help me with the day to day shop maintenance stuff so that I could be more free to create.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?

You can find me on Etsy or on my blog. I don't have a facebook account, mainly because my life is already too occupied with being on the computer and I do have a twitter account, but I never use it. In fact, I only signed up because everyone was all "a-twitter" (pardon the pun, haha) about how good it would be for business. My first and only tweet was, "I can't believe I broke down and signed up for this!"

If you're in Holland, you will probably find me at Fris. I believe in shopping locally and proud to say that I purchase all of my supplies there. I have formed some great relationships with the staff there and they have helped make my business grow by offering quality products at very reasonable prices! If I'm not at Fris shopping for cootie supplies, I'm probably at Starbuck's or browsing the scrapbook aisles at Hobby Lobby.

At the Market

2010-06-04T12:10:00.002-04:00

If you're a regular in the EtsyWMI team forums or know a Grand Rapids area artist, you've probably heard FSAM referenced time and time again. It is coming up in just over a week after all! EtsyWMI team member Jenn from YKnotShop, has put together a Q&A to help you learn more about FSAM as a newbie to the market.

I was wondering what FSAM means?
FSAM = Fulton Street ARTisans Market.

I am new to the market give me some details on FSAM!!
It is an open air market that is located at the Fulton Street Farmers Market (corner of Fulton and Fuller in Grand Rapids) on Sundays starting June 13th. You get one 16 foot booth/stall for $10 or an 8 foot booth/stall for $7 first come first served basis.

Some things you may want to know about your booth:
Your booth will be about 16' long and slanted forward. You will need table coverings, shade and other basic things that you would need for a show as in props and such. Remember, it is an outdoor open market. A 10x10 canopy will cover little more than half of your booth. I also put a tarp out over my customers - they tend to stick around at your booth longer when it is shaded. You can park your car right back up to your spot.

Can I still sign up?

There are only a limited number of season vendors, but there are lots of spaces other than that. If you are free on June 13th stop down and see what it is about. The 13th is full but there are usually openings on the other Sundays and you do not have to commit to every Sunday. I am afraid that I can't say that every Sunday is full of people but there is starting to be quite a lot of people coming more and more. It is definitely a growing market.

How much inventory should I bring with me?
That is entirely up to you. Do you have a half booth or a full booth? Each half is 8ft long so you want to look full but not over full. You can always have extra in the car to replenish, so just make what you think will be good and go from there. There is no magic number. My booth has changed so much over the past 3 years it isn't even funny. You will learn from experience. I don't sell what you sell so I can't tell you really how much to bring. Like I said bring what you've got and if it is too much keep some hidden to replenish. If it looks like not enough do some filling in and know that next time you need more.

Some set ups
I have a few of my older set-ups here if you want to take a look. You can see some here from other artisans.

Feel free to take a trip down to the market during the week, when the farmers are there, and you can get a feel for the space and how others do things like canopies. Sometimes there are crafters there too so you could say hi and glean some info from them.

You can always find more info about FSAM on Facebook and on their website.

The most important thing is to have FUN!!!!! See you there.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T11:00:00.005-04:00

1. Handmade Gold Star Pendant of Porcelain Clay by AliceHuntStudio

2. Custom Date Sterling Silver Ring by CatherineMarissa

3. Ponytail Elastics American Flag - Set of Two by GirlsLikeTrucks

4. Corn Filled Square Microwave Heating Pad Americana by YKnotShop

5. Cross on the Sidewalk 8x10 Fine Art Photograph by SilvinePhotography

Members Monday: YellowHorseArtStudio

2010-05-17T13:59:00.001-04:00

Welcome our new featured seller, Anneke from Yellow Horse Art Studio!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I am a mom of 2 under 3; my kids are 18 months apart and keep me on my toes. I am home with them all day and then switch off w/ my husband and go to work at a hardware store as their PM kitchen designer a couple of nights a week and usually Saturdays. My shop is newer on Etsy, but I hope that it will reflect the diverse nature of the products that we can produce. I started by listing my stuffed animals, because I have gotten such good feedback on them. We design our own patterns for everything we post on Etsy, since I have yet to find any pre-fab ones that I like (without alterations) from anywhere. We also plan on adding my wood- and linoleum-cut stamp cards and possibly some of my photography from around the country.

What are you currently working on?
We are working on expanding our shop and our product line. We started at Christmas with only our "Herd" dangle ponies, which aren't even listed on our Etsy page (only our Facebook page), and moved on to "Blue" ponies and "Jack" rabbits (with feedback from our friends), and then the tag-alongs ("suggested" by my daughter). Our newest animal, "Max" the frog, was actually a custom request from a friend, but when 3 other people asked for one, he was added to our prodcut list. Outside the shop, I will soon be starting to work on a wood-cut piece for ArtPrize this fall - I am a registered artist currently in search of a venue.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
Free time? Where did that go? I love to garden in our small yard with our kids and just be outside - take walks and hike. I used to do a lot more solo hiking, before the kids came along, in some very rustic places - Point Reyes, CA and the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC, just to name a couple - but now with 2 in tow, we stick to paved trails (read as: playgrounds).

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
We are hoping to get into a few craft shows before and during the ArtPrize contest to help promote our piece and link our sales of other product with that. By next year, I would like be able to do several spring and fall craft shows with multiple around the holidays. We are just starting to get together lists of local shows, and would welcome any suggestions. I feel like my business is on "simmer" right now with my kids being still at home all day, but it's still very important to keep stirring until I can move it to a more powerful burner - hopefully in 3-4 yrs.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
Right now we are planning to be at the West Michigan Moms Sale at the DeltaPlex in September, and Christmas Through Lowell in November. We are looking to pick up another show possibly in August or October to fill in the gaps. Online you can find Yellow Horse Art Studio here:

Members Monday: Turnadaisy

2010-05-03T17:18:00.003-04:00

This week we'll be learning more about Mark and Suzanne from Turnadaisy, our new featured shop!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
Turnadaisy was created by Mark & Suzanne Vainner. We have been together 21 years and are always elbow deep in multiple projects, usually with recycled or upcycled items. We love finding creative ways to make life easier and more fun. Turnadaisy is a rotating table company. We provide a dizzying array of sizes and styles of rotating tables, all material is recycled or upcycled. Our largest tables are 42" which is 19 cubic feet ea. of attractive, durable, recycled material no longer going into our landfills! "Lazy Susan" has never worked so hard or been so Green. Turnadaisy is also a member of the Design Style Guide an amazing group of artists specializing in supplying professional interior designers, home stagers and more with quality handmade art.

Large scale, user-friendly, touchable garden sculpture is another passion for us. We were thrilled to be chosen by The B.O.B. during the inaugural year of ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Mi. to display our Turnadaisy Flowering Garden bench. Suzanne is also a balloon artist. We were fortunate enough to work with Larry Moss, Kelly Cheatle and Cathy Adams on their ArtPrize entry "Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus" made entirely out of balloons. See Suzanne's balloon portfolio here.

What are you currently working on?
We are working on a number of things. We are busy finalizing the new member of the Turnadaisy family, the Turnadaisy Juiced. The Juiced is a 42" Original Turnadiasy with 3 electrical outlets spaced around the edge. These outlets give you the power to plug-in just about anything you want and still spin the table freely. We are very excited about this new item, the uses are endless. People with disabilities can have a lamp, laptop computer, a phone, ipod charger - whatever they need plugged in. Horticultural types can plug-in lights or hydroponic pumps. Crafters can plug-in glue guns, work lights, dremel tools etc. Entertainment types can plug-in lights, food warmers, crockpots and more.

The website is in the middle of an exciting "reboot" by Andrea & Jason Rigler at webmanna.com. Our logo has just received a makeover by Jennifer McDonald and we are re-shooting product stills and video for the new website with Elizabeth (stills)and Jamie(video)Klueck at ElizabethKphotographic.com.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
Suzanne loves to garden and take pictures of the various flowers in the garden. Mark has spent years using upcycled and recycled material to transform our home into a cool place to work and live. We also have an indoor pond with Koi, Butterfly Koi, a Rayukin, a Goldfish and a cool little fish with unknown parentage, named Mutt.

Art, vintage and antique hunting are a big part of our lives as well. We also have a beautiful American Pit Bull Terrier, Emma. Emma was abandoned in our yard in early March of 09 and has added a lot of fun & excitement to our once quiet house. Emma goes to school with Ron Watson & Apryl Lea at Pawsitive Vybe, an amazing world-class dog training studio, located in Rockford, Mi. Apryl is also a staff trainer at Paws with a Cause. We have learned so much about positive dog training, met the best trainers out there and had a lot of fun. We are grateful to live close enough to train there multiple times a week.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
We would really like to see Turnadaisy contribute even more to this great community by adding a couple of people to the payroll. We also look forward to folks being able to see a Turnadaisy in action for themselves at more retail locations.

How was your experience participating in Art Prize last year & do you plan on entering again this year?
ArtPrize was amazing. We learned so much and proved to ourselves we could in the matter of a few short months design, build, attract a venue with our portfolio, successfully install a large-scale sculpture and have people, media & photographers alike, really enjoy it. The chance to discuss our work with the public and other artists and see their reactions was just priceless. The first time someone said it belonged at Meijer Gardens was more than we could have dreamed of and then we heard it enough times I lost track, making all the work worth every minute.

We were planning to enter the sculpture again this year. We wanted to try to secure a more open and green space. It was difficult to appreciate the shadows this sculpture throws where it was. Unfortunately, ArtPrize has chosen to not allow a piece previously entered. It is disappointing, but it's their event. We loved it and will always be grateful for the chance to participate. We have decided to focus on the Turnadaisy tables (new website & logo, video etc. soon) and looking for a place the Turnadaisy Flowering Garden Bench can call home. 2011 might be a different story - we will participate whenever we can.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
Locally Turnadaisy is currently found at Growco at 1042 Michigan St. N.E in Grand Rapids. Growco has a beautiful selection of Bonsai as well as a knowledgable staff who will help you with just about anything you could ever want to know about growing plants, under lights, in hydroponic environments and more.
Turnadaisy can also be found in several places online.

Members Monday: lhsblack

2010-04-26T12:24:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to your regularly scheduled Members Monday! This week our featured EtsyWMI member is Kara from lhsblack.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I am a mother of two young boys and I have managed to stay at home with them to raise them. Since the birth of my first son, I quit my job as an elementary music teacher and just worked a couple evenings part time as an early childhood music teacher. I still teach these classes, though now that my kids are both in school full time I have been trying to teach more during the day and less in the evenings. I started a shop on Etsy two years ago and thought it would be an excellent way to express my creativity in my jewelry making AND make a little money to help support my addiction and possibly bring a little help to our family financially. Jewelry is a very competitive genre on Etsy and it was very hard to get noticed and become successful. I had another little addiction of collecting stones every time I went to the beach and I had an extensive collection. I started making jewelry with beach stones in them and them I decided to offer the drilled stones to the Etsy community. I started my beach stones supply shop one year ago, and I LOVE it!!! I get to beach comb, get creative with how I put my listings together, and make a little money doing it.

What are you currently working on?
I am excited about warmer weather because I will be heading back to the beaches to restock. I am currently trying to list three new things per day and fill up my categories that are empty right now such as connectors and earring pairs.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
In my free time, I enjoy being outside with my family, cookouts with our friends, and bonfires. In the summer we are at the beach a lot swimming (and looking for stones), boating, and fishing (we don't enjoy fishing, but our kids do). I have a horse and I enjoy going out on trail rides with some of my friends from the barn.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
In a year, I would like to see my shop consistently stocked at about 100-120 listings, and have a solid customer base. Everyone has been very happy with their stones, and I am steadily growing my repeat customers.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
You can also check out my jewelry at 1000 Markets, www.elysiumjewelry.1000markets.com.

Calling All EtsyWMI Members

2010-04-19T11:00:00.001-04:00

It's been two weeks since the last Members Monday post and here we are at another Monday. Obviously this isn't your typical Members Monday post. I really enjoy posting and learning about our members every week, but have run into some complications so to speak. Primarily non-responses which leave me strapped for people at the last minute (eek!). Instead of using random.org from a full list of our EtsyWMI team members, I'd love to start a list of people who would be interested in participating in Members Monday. If this is you, convo me here.

On another note, I'd love to hear suggestions for the blog and the type of things that you, the reader, would like to see. How often would you like to see posts? Do you like regular features or one-time topics more? If you're an EtsyWMI teammate that would like to contribute go ahead and convo me using the link above. Thanks for your input ahead of time!

Members Monday: SewManyFreckles

2010-04-05T11:50:00.001-04:00

The first Monday of April belongs to our new featured seller, Amanda from SewManyFreckles!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I am 23, married to a wonderful husband who loves the fact that I sew, and we have a crazy 8 mo old puppy named Pickle. I learned how to sew about 12 years ago and became an avid quilter. About two years ago I was in school for interior design and was taking a sewing class. Since I could practically teach the class myself, I decided to take on a challenge by making my little sister a flower girl dress for our upcoming wedding. After that, I started making some very simple children's clothing items like sun dresses. I decided that I wanted to try my hand at some craft shows with a friend of mine and got crazy making more kids items. This is also when Freckles came into the making. The main items that I was comfortable with were appliqued shirts, etc. The applique was just like the things I did in my quilts so it was an easy transition. I sold items at a few craft shows, but the shows didn't turn out as well as I had hoped. In the last six months, I've decided to step away from the applique as my main interest and I have started working on dresses, skirts, etc. I have now included "baby" in my business name in order to better represent my items. Freckles and Freckles Baby, are one in the same - a childresn's boutique. I am making anything from custom appliqued items to burp cloths to dresses and hair clips.

What are you currently working on?
This month I am very excited! I have just purchased the fabric for my upcoming 4th of July items. I will be making halter dresses, peasant shirts, hair clips and neckties for the upcoming holiday! I hope to have samples ready for pre-orders very soon. I am also working on an addition to my blog that will show all of my available items with sizes and prices.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
I sew on a daily basis and I haven't been quilting much since I started my business. With that in mind I would say that in my free time, I like to spend time with my husband and my puppy. My husband and I like to watch movies, and visit with friends. Our puppy also keeps us very busy!

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
In a year, I would love to see my business supporting itself. I currently work full time in addition to Freckles. I am hoping that within a year my husband will have a teaching job and then I won't have to work full time. I don't plan to make millions - just enough to come out ahead. I love that I am able to sew and make things for others while still making some money. I am also looking forward to adding bags, jackets, and more items for boys.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
You can find Freckles online in the following locations:

I will also be at some local craft shows. You can find updated information for times and locations on my blog.

Thanks so much, Amanda! I loved learning about how your business started and am excited to see where it goes in the future.

Mildy Late Members Monday: DelightedHands3113

2010-03-30T15:17:00.001-04:00

The alliteration remains and we welcome Kendra from DelightedHands3113!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I live out in the country north of Cedar Springs, where the bears and coyotes roam. I have a physics degree, work in a law office, and love to play with yarn. I recently added a pattern section to my shop. I have half a dozen patterns listed now, and plan to write more this spring and summer.

What are you currently working on?
I just finished a sweet, fuzzy little pair of pink baby booties for my hubby's coworker. Now I am designing a knit version of my modular drawer organizer pattern. There is also a left mitten with an awesome cabled pattern waiting for its mate, but since our snow recently exited the scene, it may have a long wait.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
My family is very close; we love to work on projects, play games, garden, and be silly together. I also play classical guitar in my church's worship team, and love to read.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
I plan to focus on developing and adding new patterns, and perhaps make some of my reclaimed yarn available in my shop.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
In addition to my Etsy shop,www.DelightedHands3113.etsy.com, you can find me on Ravelry as ThirtyOneThirteen. Come visit!

Thanks, Kendra! You can also read more about Kendra here (scroll down) and have a chance to win one of her unique patterns.

Members Monday: BellaJoy

2010-03-22T16:25:00.001-04:00

Time to welcome a new featured seller - Heidi from Bella Joy Pottery!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.

I'm a full time clay artist and can actually buy my own health insurance. :) I also teach ceramics part time at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. I live in Plainwell, MI and have two cats and a dog. I like reading, swimming, being outside, tomatoes, gardening, taking naps, and going fishing with my boyfriend Joe.

What are you currently working on?

I currently working on expanding my lace line. I knit lace and dip in porcelain slip to create vases, teapots, and cups. I'm trying to teach myself how to crochet because people keep telling me it's faster and easier than knitting.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?

What's free time? I like to go out to eat, watch movies, run, and take Hunter (my dog) for walks.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?

I would like to see enough sales on my shop so that I can cut out some more retails shows in the summer. I also hope to do more wholesale. I don't like working weekends in the summer.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
Oh man. I have a website http://www.bellajoypottery.com. I have a Facebook Fan page - http://www.facebook.com/HeidiMCF. I have a Twitter account - http://twitter.com/HeidiMCF.
I have a blog - http://www.heidifahrenbacherbellajoy.blogspot.com.

My work can be found at:

Ann Arbor Art Center - Ann Arbor, MI
Art Center of Battle Creek - Battle Creek, MI
Brandy's Boutique - Plainwell, MI
Gallery on Main - Bay Harbor, MI
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts - Kalamazoo, MI
Khnemu Gallery - Fennville, MI
Pewabic Pottery - Detroit, MI
Craft and Folk Art Museum - Los Angeles, CA
Water Street Coffee Joint - Kalamazoo, MI

For art fairs this summer I'll be in the East Lansing show, the KIA Bronson Park Show, Highland Park Fine Craft Fair (suburb of Chicago), Krasl Art Fair on the Bluffs, the State Street Art Fair in Ann Arbor, and Bay Harbor Art Fair.

Wow! Thanks so much, Heidi. This girl is everywhere so be sure to check out her work in person and in this weeks Featured Seller sidebar.

Introducing another batch of new EtsyWMI team members - ThePursery, jesseelin, and ChellasCollection.

Members Monday: VivianLaneJewelry

2010-03-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday and this week we're getting to know our new featured seller, Laine from Vivian Lane Jewelry!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I'm a stay-at-home-mom who worked full time outside of the home before my son was born. After he was born (and life started to finally settle down a little bit) I realized that I desperately needed a hobby - something I did specifically for myself. I love jewelry, and I love creating things that I think are beautiful, but, as I say in my shop announcement, I only have so many fingers/wrists/ears/etc.

What are you currently working on?
The items that sell the most in my store are the "mom" necklaces (customized stamped metal) and the wire-wrapped trees that I also customize based on the customer's preference of stones. I have a couple of ideas of items to add in the coming months, but nothing firm yet.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
Play with my kid. Sleep! :) I love to read, and I'm also a huge television fan.

Where would you to see your shop and business in a year?
Honestly, I love where my shop is at right now. I have just enough business that it supports me adding new items when I want to learn something new, but not so much that I'm overwhelmed. I'd love to try a craft show or two, though.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
http://VivianLaneJewelry.etsy.com
http://www.twitter.com/VLJewelry
http://www.facebook.com/VivianLaneJewelry

Laine also is hosting a giveaway on this blog where you can win a $15 gift certificate and free shipping! I'm thinking a custom Mother's Day gift would be great for the winner!

Now to introduce a few more of our newest members! Here's SpinDriftGlassWorks, BarbarasQuilts, and AlteredIron.

Members Monday: ineedclosure

2010-03-07T19:46:00.002-05:00

Welcome back for another (slightly early) week of Members Monday. This week random.org picked one of our newest EtsyWMI team members to be featured. Introducing...

Autumn from I Need Closure is our new EtsyWMI shop of the week!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.

I'm from Hesperia, MI. I graduated from Central Michigan University in 2006 with a Bachelor's of Fine Art in printmaking. After I graduated I spent about two and a half years working at a ceramics studio/local artist's gallery in Rochester, MI, Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio. I moved back to the area recently to try and make a go of selling my art for a living, and my Etsy shop, I Need Closure, is one of the ways I am trying to accomplish that. I also make functional wheel thrown pottery, which may soon warrant it's own shop.

What are you currently working on?

Currently, I am working on about a million different things. Buttons, most immediately, but also making and finding places to sell my functional pottery. Very slowly figuring out how to work this dang'ol' etsy contraption. Teaching pottery classes at the Newaygo County Council for the Arts, in Fremont, MI. Applying for graduate schools, summer jobs, galleries and such. Planning a baby shower, trying to keep my house clean, and trying to decide what I'm having for dinner tonight.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
I found that my problem with running your own "business" is that you're never really off the clock. I am constantly thinking about what I should or could be doing in regards to buttons or pottery. Which is good and bad. It makes it hard to stop and relax, but then you also get those really great ideas at 3 a.m. When I actually do get myself out of the studio or off the computer, I really enjoy cooking and then eating what I've/we've cooked with my family. I do a massive amount of reading and I spend a bit of time knitting, too - which is where I got the button idea from. And when I sell enough buttons I treat myself to a night out in Grand Rapids with friends, which usually involves tasty micro-brews followed by coney dogs.

Where would you to see your shop and business in a year?
In a year's time... I haven't the foggiest. This has been a big change for me too! My life is a little topsy turvy at the moment, and I can't decide if I like not knowing where I'll be in year. Best case scenario, I'll be enrolled at some wonderful graduate school, making pottery and buttons and mailing my buttons all over the country. But who knows what other opportunities will arise?

Where can we find you online and/or locally?
I am really just starting out, here. I am starting to get a hang of this Etsy thing, but I'm afraid I'm a little out of the loop when it come to having a presence on the web. But I have my own personal IT guy (thanks, little brother), so the website and facebook page are coming. In real life, I Need Closure Buttons can be found at:

The Attic Window Quilt Shop - Comstock Park, MI
Quilt Something - Fremont, MI
Fanna's Mercantile - Hesperia, MI
Six Degrees Retail Store - Benton Harbor, MI

Thanks so much, Autumn! I loved learning more about you and getting a peek at your great personality. Be sure to check out a few items from I Need Closer this week in the sidebar.

Let's welcome some of our newest EtsyWMI members to round out this Members Monday. Welcome to marcellas3monkeys, antlerpens, and TheHealingCupboard!

First Members Monday!

2010-03-01T22:31:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone - BySaraLynn here. To start off March with a bang, I'm going to be writing a new weekly feature here on the EtsyWMI team blog! For the past couple of months every Monday our featured shop of the week has been changing in the sidebar. Members Monday is going to give us a little peak into that shop every week and the person behind it along with introducing a few new members. So here goes!

Mary Beth from Island Girl Bags is our new EtsyWMI shop of the week.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop

I'm a stay at home mom of two boys who are very busy with school activities and sports. I've been married to the most supportive man for 12 years now. My shop consists of mostly handbags and tons of accessories that fit right into your bag!

What are you currently working on?

I'm always working on my inventory. I've got a bunch of outdoor shows coming up this Spring and Summer so I'm working on having a lot of choices for my customers.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?

Both of my boys are in hockey, soccer and baseball so that keeps me super busy. I love watching them play their sports.

Where would you to see your shop and business in a year?

I would love to get my name out a little more locally. I've started doing home shows and really enjoy them, so it's getting there.

Where can we find you online and/or locally?

http://www.islandgirlbags.com and on Etsy. Locally I do home parties and different events throughout the summer.

Thanks so much for being our first interview, Mary Beth! Be sure to check out some of her items this week in the sidebar.

And now to welcome a few new EtsyWMI members. A warm welcome to AugustMoonArtistree, bellajoy, and TheElegantElle.

Team Get Together!

2010-03-01T12:14:00.004-05:00

Saturday, February 27, a few of us meet up to chat, show off our latest projects, and share some of our best seller tips! It was a lot of fun! I always enjoy these get-togethers! Visit the forum or watch for group posts for the next gathering.

From left, standing: Ginny (NewLeafDesigns) LaShelle (La01Shelle) Barbara (BarbarasQuilts) Jesse (Jesseelin) Cathy (JustJaynes) Holly (Inthemaking01)

From left, sitting: Harriet (ThatIsSoCute) Amy (PerennialPiecer) Julie (CelebrateToday)

New Seller Resources page

2010-02-28T09:11:00.002-05:00

On the right sidebar, we now have Pages. We'll be able to add several pages of information. The first we've started is Seller Resources. Let me know what other links you'd like to see in the Seller Resources page!

Welcome New Members!

2010-01-05T13:48:00.001-05:00

In the past few months EtsyWMI has continued to grow and welcome new members! Some have been selling on Etsy for years and others are brand new. Let's take a moment to welcome some of the latest additions to the team.

Alice from AliceHuntStudio

Shari from BeachGrassCottage

Darlene from ChickenScratchPrims and MySweetSerendipity

Cassandra from Kavali8

Michelle from MichellesVinylDesign

Jennifer from SacredCake

Dale from SpiritZips

Shannon from SRHarris

Black Friday to Cyber Monday Deals - Bonus!

2009-11-26T14:25:00.004-05:00

This last group of EtsyWMI sellers have awesome multifaceted deals with a combination of free shipping, discounts, and freebies. Remember to shop all of our Black Friday to Cyber Monday Deals for fabulous, handmade gifts on Etsy!

3prince1princess.etsy.com : Free shipping on all US orders and 30% off orders over $20.00. Also on bows for every 5 you get 1 free

abacusbeadcreations.etsy.com : Free Worldwide Shipping on everything in my shop. Plus free gift with all of my necklaces, bracelets, and watches - a pretty fabric drawstring bag for safe keeping or gift-giving

Delainie.etsy.com : Free Domestic Shipping on any purchase of $20 or more. Plus a free gift with every purchase through December 25th

forrestconcepts.etsy.com : 2 journals for $25 plus free shipping for purchase of 2 or more journals. Discount will be refunded through PayPal
genesisonedesigns.etsy.com : 30% off all jewelry.
Free shipping on all orders over $75.00
Discount will be issued PayPal.

gentleadornments.etsy.com 10% off all orders. Free shipping for all US order & free shpping for all international orders over $50

Lhsblack.etsy.com : Free Worldwide Shipping on all orders over $10. Plus receive a free gift of some surprise extras! Shipping will be refunded through Paypal

Black Friday to Cyber Monday Deals - BOGO

2009-11-26T10:10:00.026-05:00

These EtsyWMI shops are offering special Buy One Get One deals!

2craftychix.etsy.com : Buy 1 quilt get the 2nd quilt 10% off excluding shipping. Refund through PayPal

CatherineMarissa.etsy.com : Buy 3 Itty Bitty Studs, get a 4th pair free! Just order 3 and leave me a message at checkout with the design you'd like to receive free

MariaSoleil.etsy.com : Buy 2 items, get 1 free. Free item will be refunded through PayPal

secondsight.etsy.com : Buy 1 item, get a 2nd item of equal or lesser value half off

thepreppyblueberry.etsy.com : Buy 2 get 1 Free. Free item will be refunded through PayPal

Whatcirca.etsy.com : Buy any 1 item, get a $5 item Free! Purchase one item and your pick of one item in the $5 section free

Black Friday to Cyber Monday Deals - Discounts

2009-11-25T21:48:00.015-05:00

These EtsyWMI shops are offering discounts in their shops! Be sure to check them out.

articulations.etsy.com : 10% off regular prices excluding shipping

craftinator.etsy.com : All scarves half off

firstfruitsllc.etsy.com : 10% off Everything excluding shipping, limited to $10

MomNMiaQuilts.etsy.com : Take 10% off regular prices excluding shipping

NancySellsGlass.etsy.com : 10% off purchase excluding shipping

Ooahvintageglam.etsy.com : Take 10% off any one item, 15% off two or more

ShowerTreatSoap.etsy.com : 10% off your entire purchase excluding shipping
WindyLou.etsy.com : Holiday bibs 20% off excluding shipping