TenJewel

Plonka by Dalinda

2008-03-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

In the Spotlight: Plonka by Dalinda
Etsy Store: http://dalinda.etsy.com
Blog: http://dalinda.typepad.com/

I wanted to share this superb Etsy shop which is chockfull with fantastic needle craft, knit and crochet objects. Plonka by Dalinda provides all sorts of ingenious bits and bobs from bags, purses, clutches and zippies to adorable pixie hats, mittens, quirky toys and few surprises.

I bought Ludvig the 1st last August. I was impressed with the quality of the work and attention to detail that went into his creation. He was a gift though and I was absolutely crushed when I had to part with him.

Aside from everything being incredibly well made, Linda uses a fantastic range of fabrics in her work and the designs themselves are ingenious too.

I guess Plonka by Dalinda is just one of *those* stores that you find yourself always checking in on from time to time.

A few of my favorites…..

I love these Ludvig Plushies:

Here's a tag pillow I've been eyeing:

These pixie hats are so sweet! Plonkas house zippy:

Meatout Day - A Vegan Etsy Promotion

2008-03-19T04:07:00.000-07:00

In honor of meatout day (Mar. 20th) the Vegan Etsy team members are running various in-store promotions. For more information and a list of participating stores, check out their blog: http://veganetsy.blogspot.com/2008/03/meatout-promotion.html

They are great stores so don’t miss out on this promotion!

Burts Bees

2008-03-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

I’ve known about Burts Bees for a while but the brand isn’t carried by any local retailers here so I’d never actually tried it. I have quite sensitive skin too and I’ve suffered from psoriasis (I had a really bad incident of it during my last exams) so I have to be careful with the products that I use. Anyway, my boyfriend bought me a Burts Bees head-to-toe starter kit for my birthday last week.

I’m an instant Burts Bees fan. This is truly a fantastic range of natural products that’s worth going a bit out of your way for. I’ve found all the products to be mild and gentle but extremely effective and everything smells really scrumptious! I’m especially fond of the almond milk beeswax hand crème and the banana & beeswax hand crème. The lettuce toner and milk & honey lotion are personal favourites of mine too.

The head-to-toe kit is a great way to sample a few of the products.

U.S Customers: http://www.burtsbees.com
Canada: http://www.burtsbees.ca/burtsbees.htm
UK & Ireland: http://www.hqhair.com/
http://www.urbanapothecary.co.uk/
http://www.myburtsbees.co.uk/
http://www.missgroovy.co.uk
http://www.slapiton.tv/acatalog/Burts_Bees_Healthy_Skin.html
Irish Stockists: http://www.ecoshop.ie
http://www.thehealthstore.ie
http://www.oceanhealthstore.com/shop/index.1.html
http://www.miramira.ie
http://purelyu.com/default.asp?s=3eqiig72839&

Blog Love

2008-02-27T02:46:00.000-08:00

Great Storque article about blogging "Etsy Sellers Who Blog / Blog Love".
Check it out: here! - I’m not going to regurgitate the content of the article here but it is informative, well written and well worth the read!

DISAPPEARANCE OF NICHOLAS FRANCISCO 2/13/08

2008-02-21T02:19:00.000-08:00

A fellow etsyian's husband has been missing since 2/13/08. His wife Christine owns two Etsy shops (which are now obviously closed) http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5588252 &
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5008691

Christine has a 4 and 2 year old and is pregnant with her third child. I can't imagine what she must be going through. Please everybody Christine needs your prayers, thoughts (((hugs))) and good vibes. Please pass this information on & post it on your blogs, personal pages or whatever.

Dedicated Site: http://mailpen.net/
News Updates :http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_021608WAB_missing_seatac_man_KS.cbc94803.html
http://www.komotv.com/news/15682797.html
Etsy Thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5472516&page=1
Updated Thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5475232
Continued: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5477512
Promo Thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5473832
Buttons http://hazelhazel.wordpress.com/2008/02/17/buttons/
Flyer: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3113/2280537696_388d4d609d_b.jpg

Great New Bead Supplies For You.

2008-02-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

Check out my studio overstock store http://tenjewelbeads.etsy.com/

Not just for Valentines Day

2008-02-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

Ok, I’m not trying to take the lazy way out here but I will not be doing a valentine’s list and I refuse to post a neon pink etsy mini. I will encourage you to have a look at my own personal etsy favourites though – stuff that I heart, sellers that I love, insight into what this girl wants, perfect last minute valentine’s gifts for her that are just as perfect on any other day!

http://www.etsy.com/favorite_listings_public.php?user_id=61088

What happened to Granny’s Pearls?

2008-02-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

Remember your grandmothers pearls? The standard princess necklace, which consisted of a single strand of pearls 16 - 18 inches long made with perfectly round pearls, uniform, lustrous, simple, elegant and oh so versatile.

You might imagine that because I make jewelry that I would make my own jewelry instead of buying it. I actually buy a lot of jewelry because I think that to make it for yourself is a bit of a chore rather than the treat it’s supposed to be. Today I decided to treat myself to what I call “granny’s pearls”. I have always thought that the best way to wear pearls is in the princess style and that no jewelry box is complete without the mandatory princess necklace of perfect pearls. They are indubitably the little black dress of your jewelry box.

Having searched for hours to find my “granny’s pearls”, I resolved to have to make the necklace myself! I think that I’ve seen every type of necklace involving pearls of any description that you could possibly imagine except for the one I wanted. There were hundreds upon hundreds of them. I did see one necklace that had a lovely style and the pearls graduated in size from large to small back toward the clasp. The only draw back is that they were "simulated", glass or plastic? with a laughable price tag of US$70. I can’t believe it - what happed to granny’s pearls? Is there a conspiracy? Is simple elegance dead? Could I really rob a nursing home?

<>end rant<>

Mad about Moo

2008-02-05T11:20:00.000-08:00

I'm totally addicted to moo.com! Their stickerbooks and minicards are just far too fabulous. I've always used vistaprint to make my business cards and I was told about moo.com yonks ago but I'm one of these people who hoards stuff and resists change.

If you've ever seen the minicards, as the name suggests they are smaller than a normal card and the print quality is excellent. The site itself is actually a pleasure, very user friendly and the pricing is just unbeatable too. You can turn your flickr photos into fantastic minicards in just a few clicks. In fact, it's all a bit too great because you'll probably end up buying up a storm.

= = = = >> www.moo.com

In fact, you could also use another great site that I discovered this week, futureme.org, to remind your future self to buy some lovely moo cards.

www.futureMe.org << = = = =

Newest Items

2008-01-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

A few of my newest.....

Buying Turquoise (or any Gemstone) Guide

2008-01-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

Turquoise is one of the most popular stones, it has been for centuries and the reasons are obvious. So much has been written about turquoise and there’s a huge amount of information and disagreement on the subject. In recent times, the market has been flooded with a worrying amount of cheap imitations, and synthetics. Some of these imitations are difficult to detect and because it can be a confusing subject anyway, its very easy to end up paying out hard cash on something that isn’t exactly everything it appears to be.

Before you Buy
Here are a few things to consider before buying turquoise (or any gem):

>> Any time you pay a premium for gemstone jewelry you should be sure the seller is reputable and knowledgeable about all aspects of the item.

>> Is it marked or listed in any way as authentic, genuine, natural etc? You can ask the seller about this but you’ll only have their word for it. I would wonder why something genuine is not marked as such since that would be it’s main selling point?

>> Ask for information such as grade and origin. If the seller can‘t tell the difference between a AA and B- stone or doesn’t know whether their turquoise is from Arizona, China or Pluto, then I would wonder if they knew what they were doing.

>> Ask about any treatments that may have been made to the stone. Is it dyed, enhanced, wax-treated, stabilized, reconstituted etc. Do they do even know what these treatments are?

>> Is it $0.50? Generally, you get what you pay for.

>> If it’s called triple choc strawberry pie ancient pink turquoise, it might be a fake. Watch out for suspicious sounding, two parted fantasy type names.

Regarding the different treatments:
Enhanced Turquoise (Zachary treatment/process)
Turquoise that has been treated with chemicals, then heated but because the heating process destroys any traces of the chemicals, it‘s virtually impossible to tell the difference from natural turquoise. Only higher grade stones can be treated in this way.

Enhanced Turquoise (Foutz treatment/process)
This process involves taking medium grade turquoise and impregnating it with vaporized quartz to improve it’s strength. Like the Zachary treatment, this is very difficult to detect.

Natural Processed Turquoise
This is an excellent new treatment where the stone is treated with non-toxic chemicals before being soaked in water. The treatment is then impossible to detect and is the highest grade of treatment. It also has the benefit that the stone does not become more green over time, as untreated turquoise does.

Wax Treated (also called waxing or oiling)
The surface of the stone is applied with a paraffin wax or oil treatment. This is a very old, historic treatment given to turquoise in order to enhance the color and surface luster of the stone. A lot of turquoise from China was treated in this way but Chinese producers now prefer the stabilization method.

Stabilized Turquoise
This treatment consists of using an epoxy or acrylic (plastic) resin to bond lower grade turquoise material to strengthen it and make it acceptable for use in jewelry. Over time, exposure to pollution, detergents, lotions and oils may change its color.

Reconstituted Turquoise
This treatment is where tiny pieces or powdered down stone is taken with dye, fillers and plastics to form a larger solid “stone”. This is considered to be an imitation . Reconstituted turquoise cuts easier than stabilized material, but has a lower value.

Block Turquoise
This is an outright imitation and it contains no actual turquoise. Its creation involves taking stimulants of ceramic, plastic and other materials. Swirls of black dye are added to simulate the matrix.

Backed Turquoise
This treatment is used on stones like cabochons and cuts that will be set in jewelry pieces. It involves placing a layer of epoxy or acrylic bonding resin on the back on the stone, which is then concealed by the setting.

Dyed Turquoise
This could be anything really. It could be turquoise that has been dyed to enhance its overall color or veins. Or more likely, it could be a number of other stones that can be dyed to look like turquoise. Your “dyed turquoise” will often be revealed as “dyed howlite, magnesite or dolomite” posing turquoise. Even certain ceramics, plastics and glass can be dyed to look like turquoise.

Turquoise Grades & Common Descriptions
AA - gems-grade natural turquoise.
Origin: (probably one of the larger mines such as the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona)

-A & -B (c)- commercial quality, probably enhanced in some way or even stabilized.
Origin: Various (China, Mexico, USA)

African Turquoise - Actually a Misnomer
This is a type Jasper found in Africa that is sold as “African Turquoise” due to its similar matrix.

Apple Turquoise - Probably Stabilized or Reconstituted
Green-Green Color, with or (especially)without a matrix.

Australian Turquoise - Another Misnomer
Probably variscite

Chinese Turquoise - Be careful
Stabilized/Reconstituted
Possible dyed calcite or soapstone parading as turquoise.

Fox Turquoise - NOT to be mistaken for faux turquoise! High quality
Fox is one of Nevada’s most productive turquoise mines.

Mexican Turquoise - Stabilized
Color and matrix (or lack of it) emulates Sleeping Beauty turquoise

Viennese Turquoise - This is actually glass!

Other attributes: Matrix and Color
The matrix is the dark pattern or variegation appearing all over the stone. The perfect matrix is a matter of opinion and personal taste but be careful of stones that have no matrix at all because that MAY be an indication that they are treated (see above). Stones completely covered with these markings are less valuable. I prefer a nice bluey-green stone with a middling of darkest brown-black matrix. A web matrix is considered most valuable

Ultimately, you will be buying the stone because you enjoy its wonderful features, including its color. Turquoise is available in a huge range of colors from aqua blue to very, very green. You should choose the color that pleases you best.

In fact, the “perfect” turquoise stone is the one that speaks to you. Don’t buy an “investment” or “money worth” piece. Don’t buy a stone that by all accounts has the best attributes or is in fashion right now. It's all realative and you should choose the stone that has the most value for you.

Tests
There are a number of tests you can use to ascertain if your turquoise is natural or otherwise treated. You'll find them here: LINK: http://www.lapidaryjournal.com/feature/may03str.cfm

Unique Expressions: How to Promote Your Website

2008-01-21T13:25:00.000-08:00

Unique Expressions: How to Promote Your Website: "How to Promote Your Website"

- Great post with lots of helpful info on promoting your website online. It's really generous and nice of jessprkle to compile and post all of this information, which is invaluable for the old hand and newbie alike!

Featured Etsy Artists

2008-01-21T08:50:00.000-08:00

Etsy is THE venue for so many wonderful and talented people that standing out from the crowd can be an excruciatingly difficult task.

Entering the TimeMachine or Treasury is like getting on some type of cool crafty rollercoaster. You’re immediately slapped in the face with all this fantastic stuff and there really is just no end to the talent. The problem is that you start drooling over everything and can’t really focus on any one thing.

Basically, it takes something really special to draw you out of sensory overload, just stop you dead in your tracks and absorb your attention. Here are a few of the stores that get my undivided attention:

http://gobuggy.etsy.com/ GoBuggy is a very obvious choice for me because the product itself just so great! The items in this store are interesting, fun, imaginative and very well made. You look and this shop and become really quite convinced that you do need everything in it!

http://christinegant.etsy.com/ ChristineGant sells wonderful bath and beauty products. All fabulous, original choices here and everything looks so edible too!

http://cottonbirddesigns.etsy.com Cottonbirddesigns hand stitched little paper and fabric birds are just delightful. A really great idea and each one begs you to take it home! !

A Couple of My Latest Additions

2008-01-20T15:55:00.000-08:00

Just a few of my newest items...

Jewelry Gift Box Template

2008-01-20T07:11:00.000-08:00

Following up on my recent Packing for Etsy Post, I found this post
http://cmguajardo.blogspot.com/2008/01/jewelry-gift-box-template.html detailing Cynthia’s experiments and giving step by step instructions on using a Mirk Wood template to make your own gift boxes from recycled cardboard. It really is a great idea, it’s not difficult to do and all the materials are probably lurking somewhere around your every own house!
Must read.

Have you taken the Pledge?

2008-01-18T12:55:00.000-08:00

If you haven’t, there’s no time like the present!

http://team.etsy.com/downloads-bh.html

Postage and Packaging for Etsy

2008-01-18T04:25:00.000-08:00

January tends to be slow on Etsy so there’s a lot time that you spend thinking about how to improve your store. I was thinking back on sellers that I’d purchased from and what made them memorable to me. Packaging, I think, is a huge factor. All the products were fabulous and unique of course but they were also all packaged really beautifully.

So that’s what I’ve been doing today, trying to improve my packaging. There’s quite a bit more to it than you’d think.

I’ve had great packaging ideas but when you break it down to individual costs and its $15 on each parcel, then it’s just not feasible. You have to really hunt down those bulk lots and work hard to get good deals.

To start with, you have essentials like the padded envelopes stuffed with shredded paper, tissue paper, micro-fiber or whatever else you use to protect your precious items. After that you have to go for simple enclosures like paper flowers, stickers, professionally printed business cards and “next order” discount cards, tags and jewelry cards, ribbon, boxes or embellished jewelry bags or whatever else you use.

If the postal costs alone on each parcel is around $3-4 depending on the destination and you’re only prepared to charge a max of $6 p&p (because you don’t want to be accused of having outrageous postage and packing charges) then you don’t have a lot of funds left to spend on nice packaging! I think that wherever you see really low p&p costs, a portion of the packaging costs have actually been worked into the purchase price of the item.

The other thing that you have to consider is whether something is appropriate to enclose with your package. Generally speaking, I’d stay away from enclosures of the flavored or fragrant kind as they might not be to the recipients taste. If you sell soap or perfume, enclosing samples is fine. If you sell any foodstuffs, enclosing samples is fine but just watch out for the nut allergies. If you sell jewelry, enclosing e.g. soap samples is not fine. A recipient that has ordered jewelry probably doesn’t want to be attacked by anything smelly upon opening their parcel. Just remember, you think it smells wonderful but maybe I think it smells like satans a**! (sorry)

Yes, so that got a bit rantish but it is very difficult because you have to think of everything. I’ll post photos of my new packaging once everything I’ve ordered arrives. I'm happy that I got the most that I could whilst making sure that shipping doesn’t go over $6.

White Balance Adjustments

2008-01-16T04:11:00.000-08:00

I’m going to talk about the white balance function in the simplest terms I can. I’m probably stepping into hot water here but when I first started trying to figure out these settings, I was just looking to find a few simple tips to help improve my Etsy photos.

I found lots of places where the white balance function was being discussed feverishly and everybody seemed to have some type of opinion. There’s just so much information there and it’s very confusing if you’re starting from a zero knowledge base and only want simple information.

No. 1 – What is this white balance thingy anyway?
White balance is simply a color correction function. You know you might need to adjust your white balance if your photos are too blue, too orange or too green.

No. 2 – Why does that happen?
I could go into this for a couple of paragraphs but basically, different light sources offer different color light. Normally, you don’t notice this because your eye makes up for it. Your camera is not able to do that.

No. 3 – Oh, I see, I need to increase the intensity of light then?
No! It’s about the color of the light and has nothing to do with intensity of the light. You might be outside taking great photos under natural daylight, and then you go inside and start taking icky photos under light bulbs. This is not happening because you have a crappy camera or need to increase the intensity of the light. The light bulb IS giving off a different color light.

No. 4 – Ok, so what can I do?
Your camera defines all color based on what it thinks the color white looks like and hence the importance of having the correct white balance. If you set the correct value for white then everything else with be alright (that rhymed, I’m really sorry).

No. 5 – Just tell me how to fix it already?
Purchase Paint Shop Pro or alternatively, your camera will have a number of settings to deal with this problem. Go the white balance menu (the one with the little pictures of a light bulb, sun, cloud and whatnot etc.)

Depending on your camera, you generally will have the following options:

Auto
Incandescent
Fluorescent
Sunlight
Flash
Cloud
Night
Smart/Preset/Manual

Auto tries to figure everything out on its own and virtually never succeeds. The rest of them are guesstimates, which means that if you’re taking photo’s under direct sunlight then a good place to start is to select “Sunlight” from the white balance menu but these are general settings and do not guarantee perfection. Preset allows you to take a photo of something white and select “this is white”. The camera then uses that value to define all other color and produce what should be good photos.

So you see that this white balance thingy is actually not very complicated at all! Don’t’ be afraid to experiment with ANY of your camera settings. Adjusting your white balance is something that gives immediate results. I find that the best thing is to find what works for you. Think of it as nothing more than a tool to help solve color issues.

Gemstone Misnomers

2008-01-15T06:40:00.000-08:00

Every now and again I make a point of throwing my eye over the list of common gemstone misnomers. It’s important to have researched this area if you’re going to be buying and selling gems. You don’t want to sell somebody the wrong thing and you don’t want go get ripped off yourself by buying something that is not what it appears to be.

I’ve seen these misnomers crop up in the jewelry category on Etsy and other places. I really don’t think sellers are deliberately mis-naming stones but suppliers will sometimes mislabel supplies to help them sell. Some unscrupulous suppliers will mislabel gems to help them sell and to attract a higher sale price. To combat falling victim to this type of thing, Robert Shipley’s Dictionary of Gems and Gemology is an invaluable guide to have. If you don’t already have it, take a look at the link below, it actually takes a lot of it’s definitions from Shipley’s Dictionary.

http://www.gemscape.com/html/misnomer.htm

Nepalese Rudraksha Berries

2008-01-14T12:28:00.001-08:00

Rudraksha berries are a sacred bead for followers of the teachings of Hinduism, Buddhism and Zen and are often used to make sacred m`ala prayer beads or rosaries. Buddha wore these Beads, so did Gandhi, the Dalai Lama and enlightened Indian Yogis.

Now available at http://tenjewelbeads.etsy.com/

Ten Thousand Villages

2008-01-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

Another great site that I've only just found and really must share:
http://www.tenthousandvillages.com (I've added a permanent link to my menu)
What a great site! Not just the principle of it, but the products too.

Quoted from TenTousandVillages...

"Ten Thousand Villages is a founding member of the International Fair Trade Association, an organization that includes over 200 members in 55 countries, including many artisan groups in developing countries. We are part of a worldwide movement that is striving to improve the livelihood of disadvantaged people in developing countries through the expansion of fair trade...

We market quality products from diverse cultures around the world made by people that we know and care enough about to do business in a manner that together we consider fair. We strive to operate as a business with a compassionate mission so that we can provide vital, fair income to artisans. Our dream is to one day see that all artisans in developing countries will earn a fair wage, be treated with dignity and respect and be able to live a life of quality. "

The site offers wonderful handcrafted items that are beautiful and unique. Items that you just won't find anywhere else. Personally, I have my eye set on the Cinnamon Bark Tea Box. I'm encouraged by the aroma reported in customer reviews, which is exactly what I would have hoped for.

Please visits the great site!

i just work here:: what would chuck norris do - amazing facts.

2008-01-12T11:17:00.000-08:00

i just work here:: what would chuck norris do - amazing facts.

Flower Earwires

2008-01-12T04:43:00.001-08:00

I love these new earwires that I made, they were a completely random idea too. They remind me of tiny wildflowers and I love the organic feel, the way the earwire meanders and twists.

Feline Frolics

2008-01-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

My cat, Mindy, keeps jumping up and demanding attention while I'm busy trying to take photographs. She's very bold!! ..

...but also cute. The fact that she's so cute is the only reason she gets away with it. Cats really know exactly how to play you!

My Daemon

2008-01-11T02:03:00.000-08:00

I saw this on starrydesigns blog and took the test...

www.freerice.com

2008-01-10T14:31:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share my new favorite site, FreeRice. This site is fun and totally addictive, it improves your vocabulary and encourages you to become more articulate (<---see). If that's not enough, it's also for a very good cause!

Come on - give it a go!
www.freerice.com

Finally, an Update!

2008-01-08T06:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Even I can’t believe I let so long go by without an update. I am suitably ashamed!

I’m not going to even try to make excuses for myself. I have been just too busy these last couple weeks. I’m thinking of shutting down my kituchi shop. The truth is that I just don’t have the time to promote it. I sell my work outside of etsy as well as working on my TenJewel Etsy store and working full time. With Etsy, you sorta get what you put into it and that’s all there is to it.

Anyways, I hope that everybody had a great holiday.
I’ve personally just gotten so fat, I really have. I'm on a cabbage soup diet now.

Here’s some of my latest pretties:

Got Screwed, Got featured, Off to the Japanese Gardens!

2007-09-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is a an odd title. I don’t really know where to start so firstly, let me say that there’s lots more new items added to my store =) I’ve been working really hard to create new designs, take good photos and actually list items. I had to sever my connection with a boutique that I sold my work through but it actually works out nicely for me because I won’t have such a hard time keeping my etsy store up-to-date and I won’t be under such pressure trying to add new items.

I was thinking about it for a long time and it’s such a difficult decision. My work sells for much more in boutiques and I get more money even when they’re screwing me. It’s also difficult to confront somebody with a professional attitude. What happened was that when they gave me a statement for the work that had been sold, they were listing the prices lower than what the work had actually sold for. They get a percentage of the sale price so this meant that they were basically keeping more money for themselves than agreed. I found out because I had an idea that there was something going on and I sent my friend down to buy a one of my designs from the boutique. Sure enough the price on my statement was different than the price she had paid. I was really livid about it so I went down with her receipt and my statement and confronted them about it. They said that THEY were disappointed by my actions!? I mean WTF? Was there an alternative? They said that it was just a mistake on that particular item probably because they had marked items down as 30% off. The discount was on their computers picelist and the statement had been generated from that but somehow the actual piece itself had inadvertently not been marked down on the price tag before it sold. Yes, well apart from my initial suspicions and the fact that I know what my works sells for, the ‘somehow” and “probably” or “inadvertently”, that was a reasonable enough explanation if it hadn’t taken them so long to come up with it! I said that I felt that there was no relationship of trust between us and that it would be better if I took my business elsewhere. It just goes to show how easily independent designers can get screwed, even the seasoned ones. I think that this is definitely a lesson for old and new designers to be careful with consignment even when everything seems to be in order on paper.

Oh well, on the positive side I’ve been featured on two blogs this week: http://jellybeansart.blogspot.com/2007/08/etsy-feature-tenjewel.html
& http://visitatwhitsend.blogspot.com

My gorgeous new hill tribe silver arrived too! I kind of just want to get stuck in. When I see pretty things then I have difficulty pulling myself back and being considerate about my designs. I’m going to take my new supplies, my camera, my sketchpad and myself to the Japanese Gardens to gather my thoughts and designs. I haven’t been there in ages and I could do with some wind down time anyway. The peace and harmony there is unexplainable. The Japanese Gardens at Tully are world-famous, considered to be the finest in Europe. The gardens are a hundred years old and trace the journey of a soul from oblivion to eternity. It’s really fascinating and gardens are not just horticultural but artistic, philosophical and historical. It’s such a beautiful place where every element comes together and every tiny little thing is a part of a bigger overall design. I can’t wait to go and gather some inspirations and hopefully I will come back with great pictures and some good designs too!

Urgently needed update

2007-08-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know I haven’t updated here in such a long time. Items in my store fell below 20 due to multiple orders so I had to work hard to put items back in my store. Lots of new items now! Lots of new gemstones too and my Andalusite arrived! Seriously, there are too many new items for me to show you here so I’ll just post a few of my favourites.

I realise that I missed a featured etsyian interview too and I’ll bring those back next Friday. I actually read on the forum on etsy that some people look for payment in the form of freebies and whatnot from people that they feature. I’m so shocked by that. The reason that I run these interviews is because I enjoy doing them, I love reading artists interviews and I’m genuinely interested in other designers work, what they’re trying to do and why. If you have a store on etsy and you want to be featured, it’s completely free so just comment here or send me a convo.

I’m going to have my Wrapped Sunstone Earrings with Hill Tribe Silver, Freshwater Pearl and Peridot http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6811312 featured on http://www.smidge.ca/. It’s a fantastic looking site and really well laid out. It showcases handmade items created by independent artists and has a different a theme each week. My earrings will be under this weeks theme of Shades of Summer. My favourite theme so far is probably Grassy Green: http://www.smidge.ca/grassy_green.html, such great items!

My interview with Designed by Diana

2007-08-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Handbag addicts are in for a real treat now! DESIGNED BY DIANA is another great etsyian who sells handmade bags and purses. Diana's line has something for everyone, her work is just really impeccably well made and her designs are exclusive, trendy, stylish and distinctive with affordable price tags. What more could you ask for?.....

Tell us a bit about yourself. What is your name, label, location, & whatnot?
I’m Diana and I live in Miami, Florida. I live with my husband, our cat and our doggie. I work a day job at an international cable network, but my real passion is designed by Diana. I dream and scheme about my bags all day and when I get home the fun starts, making patterns, cutting, sewing and designing.

When did you start crafting?
I started crafting before I can remember. The first thing I remember making was painting a receiving blanket with Gonzo for my baby brother when I was six. My mom has always been a crafter and I loved to craft alongside her. My first solo project was a plastic canvas blowfish tissue holder. I loved it and think it may still be floating around my mom’s house.

Describe your craft in one word:
Hmmm... just one? Funky

Explain your craft, what drives you and your inspirations:
I make handbags because I’m a handbag addict. I just love having all sorts of bags, so I started making them to quell my addiction. I love mod and retro fabrics and patterns. I get inspired by so many things, clothing, a trip to the bookstore, an idea can come anywhere at anytime, which is why I always have a little notebook to jot them down in my bag.

What makes you different than other sellers?
My bags are unique. I try to get unique fabrics and handles to make my bags true originals.

Have you had anyone that you consider to be a mentor? Tell us about them.
Totally. I consider my grandmother to be my mentor. She has been a seamstress for over 65 years. She learned to sew and make her own patterns in Cuba and brought her craft with her to the US. She’s worked in many factories and even opened a couple of factories of her own. By the time I was born she was doing “costura a la medida” (custom fitted clothing) from her home. I would sit by the sewing machine and help her sometimes. I got the sewing bug from her. I, of course was one of her best customers. She’s made every prom dress and even my wedding dress. Her work is always of the best quality, true craftsmanship. It always looked as if you would have gotten it in a store. I aspire to have my work look as professional as her does.

Do you have a favourite product or a signature piece? Show us.
I have to say, though I love all my pieces, my Angela bag has a special place in my heart. It was the first bag I ever made and sold and was basically the beginning of designed by Diana. Here is the latest Angela bag with a cool Alexander Henry Geisha print. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5891482

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
Love what you do, cause in the end, the money may not come, but if you love what you’re doing you will be happy no matter what. And another thing, if you want your craft business to work, you have to treat it like a business. Take it seriously, while still having fun of course, but dedicate time to it and it will get you results.

Where do you see yourself going with your craft in the future?
Eventually I’d love to see people walking down the streets in every city with one of my bags. I’ve been dreaming of having 2 designed by Diana lines, one ready-to-wear and one couture-- just like the big fashion designers.

Don’t forget to tell us where we can buy your work:
You can learn more about designed by Diana at www.designedbyDiana.com which links to my etsy store at http://designedbyDiana.etsy.com

Coming up next!

2007-08-07T12:31:00.000-07:00

OMG, I’ve just had a major supplies shopping spree. I cleaned out my studio a couple of weeks ago to get rid of all the beads that I had in stock that have been discontinued or because I only dealt with that supplier one time. Anyways, out with the old and in with the new!!…God I’m so broke. Here’s what I bought and will be featuring in my designs shortly. I might actually sell some overstock in these beads on etsy because I had to buy full strands in gross and in some cases I just wont be using them all.

I bought probably about TEN different types of chalcedony briolettes, I love them so much I bought every colour except rose pink because that was sold out, Karen Silver Orchids, flower buds, roses and hammered stations. Lots of Karen Silver, I’m in love with Karen Silver too! I got some different Marquise Briolettes because they seem to be a very popular shape. I also got some more flashy moonstone briolettes because they were such a great hit, gorgeous green amethyst briolettes, beautiful colourful fluorite briolettes, iolite briolettes
and *drum roll* ANDALUSITE briolettes!! I’ve been wanting Andalusite for so long, it’s so so beautiful! I can’t wait to start creating with my new supplies!!

Also, I got 17 new hearts on etsy today? That seems sudden and suspicious. Very weird.

My interview with CraftasticDesigns!

2007-08-03T02:51:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! This weeks interview is with Shannon & Jess of CraftasticDesigns. Please visit thier shop, they have amazing products in a range of categories so you'll be bound to find something whether your looking for jewelry, original artwork, home decor, something for your baby or something for your pet!

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Tell us a bit about yourself. What are your name, label, location, & whatnot?

Our store is named Craftastic Designs. It is run by Shannon & Jess. We have been friends since kindergarten. We are located in Somerset and Fall River, Massachusetts.

When did you start crafting?
(Shann) I've been interested in creating art since I was a little girl. Before I can remember.

(Jess) I always loved painting and doing crafts but I didn't get seriously into making jewelry until about 3 years ago after I hurt my back.

Describe your craft in one word:
(Shann) I would have to say "practical" Many of my items are used in everyday life.

(Jess) "STYLISH" I want my jewelry to make people feel good and look good when they wear it, and I want my paintings, vases and candle holders to look good in peoples homes. I don't sell anything I wouldn't want for myself.

Explain your craft, what drives you and your inspirations:
(Shann) I focus mainly on sewing and quilting. I love getting new fabrics and imagining what I can create out of it! I am definitely inspired by colors and patterns in the fabrics I choose.

(Jess) I paint, make jewelry, and make decoupage vases. Usually I am inspired by colors or if I have a certain pendant for a necklace I take my inspiration from that. When I paint I am inspired by the mood I am in.

What makes you different than other sellers?
(Shann) We have such a unique collection of items.

(Jess) What she said lol!

Have you had anyone that you consider to be a mentor? Tell us about them.
(Shann) My dad is very artistic. I used to love watching him draw me things when I was younger. He always encouraged me to fulfill my creative side.

(Jess) My high school art teachers taught me so much. I don't think I would be able to do what I do without them.

Do you have a favourite product or a signature piece? Show us.
(Shann) This is my favorite. It is my first quilt and I am really proud of it!http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6438915 also these seem to be a hit on Etsy and Craft fairs: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6413376

(Jess) This painting is my favorite I put a lot of emotion into my paintings so I get pretty attached to them http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6290757

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
(Shann) Make sure that you really enjoy your craft! Don't do it just to make money. Express yourself and show it off to the world!

(Jess) Wow Shann how can I beat that lol. I would just suggest that you do as many craft fairs as you can to get yourself out there. If you have a bad experience at one craft fair don't give up it just might be the wrong crowd for what you are selling.

Where do you see yourself going with your craft in the future?

(Shann) I would love to have my own baby boutique. I've wanted to do that since I was a teenager.

(Jess) I would like to do more custom jobs for weddings and stuff I recently did one for the first time and I loved it. I would also like to have a little art gallery or a craft store.

Don’t forget to tell us where we can buy your work:
http://www.craftasticdesigns.etsy.com/

Fancy Feline catnip toy set

Pretty Kitty Bib and Burp Cloth Set

Magenta Leaf Candle Holder

Photographing your work for etsy

2007-08-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

A few days ago another seller on Etsy contacted me for advice on photographing work for etsy. This is sort of hilarious if you only knew what a goofus I really am when it comes to photography. Admittedly, I’ve gotten better but a look at my sold items will reveal some very serious photography idiocy of gargantuan cringe-worthiness. Yes. Well, enough about that because I thought that I might as well post what I’ve learned about photographing your work for etsy…..

Taking pictures from different angles and getting down to the same level to take your pictures, not just holding the camera above the piece. e.g. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5710679

Using a neutral background is important. I made the mistake of using fussy backgrounds in the beginning and they really only distract from your piece. Mine were REALLY fussy. Before: http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5643860 *cringe*Now I use natural fibre handmade paper e.g banana paper, wood etc. Just anything neutral and definitely not on a surface that reflects light. After: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6566074

Natural daylight is great and sunlight is better! I live in Ireland and it’s almost always dull, overcast and raining like hell but as soon as the sun comes out you’ll find in my garden taking photographs of my work. I love sunlight (not direct sunlight) and I use the flash too.

Zoom! Showoff the detail of your pieces and bear in mind what it will look like reduced to a thumbnail because that’s what potential buyers will see first.

Set your camera to macro and lock the focus. I have a Canon Powershot and it’s virtually always set to macro. Different cameras have different closeup capabilities but to lock the focus properly, hold the camera at an angle, zoom, position the piece {doesn’t have to be centred*, experiment a bit), press the shutter button down a bit and hold it. Now you have a focused view and you can evaluate and reposition if necessary or if you’re satisfied then push the shutter button down all the way and hold it until the flash goes off.

Hold your camera steady with both hands otherwise the photo will be blurred. Don’t be tense and rest against something if you have to. {use the tripod, if you have one}

I take lots of different photos at lots of different angles, and distances etc. and out of every 15 photos that I take I choose the best 5.

Images for Etsy must be in a jpeg format and square, at least 1000 pixels wide. *Since photos in etsy are automatically cropped to be square, when you take a photo bear in mind that a strip on each side will be cut off.

I think that you just get better at taking photos through experience and through experimentation.There’s lots more info about taking photos for etsy on the etsywiki too: http://www.etsywiki.com/index.php?title=Photos

Whoohoo!

2007-07-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

I’ve been so busy creating with my new supplies and I think I’m in love with Hilltribe silver now. I sold the most expensive item on my etsy store yet, which was actually a grab bag full of supplies from a recent studio clean out. Wouldn’t you have guessed that the most expensive thing I sell on etsy would turn out to be supplies!

I know that I was going to go and reply to all my deviantart messages and comment on everyone’s deviations but I went looking for a new car instead. I bought a silver Nissan Micra that I’m going to name “Betsy”. Every car I’ve ever had has actually been named Betsy and this one will be no exception. I love Betsy!

I’m so happy but in a penniless sort of way so I really have to keep my hand out of the cookie jar for a while. This is proving difficult since I keep seeing stuff that I really want so I’ve devised a cunning plan of hearting all the items that I’m going to demand as Christmas presents in a few months, lol!
new items: -

My interview with Spare Time Satchels!

2007-07-27T03:57:00.000-07:00

Yay! another great Etsyian, another great interview!

Tell us a bit about yourself. What are your name, label, location, & whatnot?

My name is Sharon Lipps and I live in the Raleigh NC area. I am a full time working mom, with a wonderful husband and two beautiful little boys (2 ½ and 1 ½). I started knitting as a way to relax in the evenings, I started with baby blankets and moved on to other projects that did not take quite so long and I enjoyed doing it. I originally made a purse for my niece. I enjoyed doing it so much I made another one then another one and so on. I loved how they turned out so I decided to see if they would sell, plus I had a number of people say how great they looked. Therefore, Spare Time Satchels was born!!!

When did you start crafting?

I started crafting (knitting) in 2003. Primarily as something to keep my hands occupied to stop smoking!!! I do have knitting in the blood though!! Both grandmothers and my mother all knit and I originally learned from them about the age of 7 or so.

Describe your craft in one word:

RELAXING!!!!

Explain your craft, what drives you and your inspirations:

Primarily my craft is my SANITY!!! With two boys, born within a year, you need something for that!!!!…LOL… I just enjoy making beautiful things. Also, my purses are very unique and I like the fact they are highly functional, washable and different than those you can find anywhere.

What makes you different than other sellers?
I feel my purses are different than most purse makers just for the fact they are all unique!!! Sure, I can follow a pattern but they will all be handmade, handcrafted and especially with felting a purse no two will EVER be the same. Felting is a process which definitely makes each purse unique.Have you had anyone that you consider to be a mentor? Tell us about them.
As far as a mentor goes, that would be both of my grandmothers. I remember vividly as a child both of them just knitting, knitting and knitting. They made so many extraordinary things such as, mittens, hats scarves, sweaters, Christmas ornaments, dolls, doilies etc….

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
Enjoy what you do would be my best piece of advice.

Where do you see yourself going with your craft in the future?
In the future I would just like to continue making great purses!! I would eventually like to do more patterns in them but hey…I am relatively new at this as well and I am constantly learning new things.

Don’t forget to tell us where we can buy your work:
You can see what I make, you can purchase a purse, bag, wristlet or pouches on my website at www.sparetimesatchels.com (this links right to my ETSY website). I will also be very happy to custom make one for you, just let me know what you want and I will do it.

Some fabulous items from Spare Time Satchels……

Blog Make-over, Deviant Art and Earring Madness!

2007-07-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

My blog has had a make-over! I think it's much more simple and easy to read now.

I visited my DeviantArt page today with great intentions of replying to my messages but every time I blink there are like 100 more of them. I feel guilty for hiding out and not replying when people have taken the time to look at my work and comment on it so I'm going to go through them all at the weekend. I just hate sending repetitive messages and I want to look at other peoples work and give them some sort of valuable feedback. I hate sending messages like "wow, that’s great!" or "beautiful!" because It sounds like I didn't really look or I'm a serial bestfriender. I know it's much more useful for designers to hear what works or doesn’t work with the design.

I've gone mad making earrings lately. I started to make my own earwires, which I put off for a while because I was nervous that I'd forget to file one of them and somebody’s' ear would get ripped off. I understand that customers prefer jewelry that doesn't maim them, lol. It really is simple though, you just wind the wire around something like a fat marker then cut up one side like you would for split rings, turn a loop at one end, file the other end and that's it. Now if only it would stop raining, I could take nice photos of them all!!

New Items & This Years Debutante Ball

2007-07-23T02:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, I've been very busy creating new items for my shop and taking better photos too. I got some beautiful labradorite and moonstone that have gorgeous rainbow flashes and beautiful rose quartz that goes great with my pink tourmaline and pearls.
I consigned some of the items that were in my shop so I had to overwrite the listings :)

I've been really busy with commissions too! I get to design the jewelry for two Debutantes and I can't wait to see them in their dresses wearing my jewelry and hair accessories . Hopefully I will get some photo's of them looking fabulous too!!

My interview with Bottledupdesigns!

2007-07-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

I’m so glad that I decided to interview other etysians through my blog if only because I discovered this great etsyian! If you want to support an indie artist, protect the environment and wildlife, look fabulous and swipe yourself a great deal too, then you’ll definitely want to visit bottledupdesigns! The other thing that I’ll say is that if you do want to grab yourself a bottledupdesign of your own, do it fast! This is definitely set to become one of the hottest shops on etsy: http://bottledupdesigns.etsy.com

When did you start crafting?
Well, having two young children, I guess I am always crafting! But as for this specific product, it evolved over the last year. Where I live is all wooded behind me. There are numerous old bottle dumps and all through the woods are broken pieces of glass. As we walk through the woods, I would pick up a piece and tell my children how old it is and what is was from. Each piece is like a little history lesson. When I think of the times the country was going through as I describe some of the old glass! As an avid bottle collector, through the years I have picked up many bottles and collected them for display. One day, one of my dogs feet was cut badly on the broken glass and I started rethinking just letting the pieces lay. I became concerned for the wildlife, the deer, foxes, squirrels, and thousands of others becoming injured as well on this glass, and decided to do something better with it. Without really know what I was going to do, my k ids help pick some up. We carefully washed it, and I commented it was as pretty as gems. That's how the idea was born. I came up with a way to carefully ensure the edges were smooth, taught myself how to drill the glass, and made notes on the history of each piece I was worked with. What we have now is "Bottled Up Designs", jewelry made from the glass of antique bottles. With each piece, I include the "Story of the Glass" which notes what the glass came from, and how old the glass is. In some cases, well over 100 years old!

Describe your craft in one word:
I guess I would have to say - unique! I can guarantee no one else has anything like this!

Explain your craft, what drives you and your inspirations:
I am very passionate about old glass and the history behind it. Our way of living, the times our country and the world is going through, is reflected on these old pieces. I feel with what I am doing, I can bring a little bit of this history to people, and help clean up the environment at the same time.

What makes you different than other sellers?
I think the product itself sets me apart. Many people are using new products which takes vast amounts of oil, energy, natural resources, and manpower to create the pieces to make these. With mine, I am simply reclaiming something was already used, many, many years ago and making them beautiful again. Something with a true story behind it you can share as you wear them.

Have you had anyone that you consider to be a mentor?
I would have to say no. What I am creating has come out of my love the glass, and my desire to make the environment a little better. The product evolved by trying different things and seeking opinions and advise from many people.

Do you have a favorite piece or signature piece?
I would have to say I do not. I am always amazed as I dig the glass out of the dirt, caked under years of leaves, and moss, how the beauty is preserved and how truly beautiful this historical glass is.

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http://bottledupdesigns.etsy.com

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Featured Etsy Artist Interviews

2007-07-06T06:54:00.001-07:00

I've decided to interview a different etsy artist here every week. I will be featuring artists from various categories not just jewelry. The indie community can use all the support it can get and this is something that I've been thinking about doing for a while. I've thought about it and finally decided that these are the 10 questions that I will ask each artist to answer:

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Tell us a bit about yourself. What are your name, label, location, & whatnot?

When did you start crafting?

Describe your craft in one word:

Explain your craft, what drives you and your inspirations:

What makes you different than other sellers?

Have you had anyone that you consider to be a mentor? Tell us about them.

Do you have a favourite product or a signature piece? Show us.

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

Where do you see yourself going with your craft in the future?

Don’t forget to tell us where we can buy your work:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Look what I found

2007-07-03T15:31:00.000-07:00

L@@K what I bought: http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5659171
Granny Smith - Prehnite slices and wrapped silver earrings from Glimmerjewelry. The first thing that just really caught my eye and that I absolutely *had to* have in a long time. Glimmerjewelry’s shop is packed full of fabulous jewels!!

The other thing that I discovered is http://www.beaut.ie/blog/ Beaut.ie, the Irish Beauty Blog, which is updated a couple of times a day and is run by two sisters, self confessed product whores, who offer beauty info, reviews, DIY, advice and a good giggle :)

Linking Your Website back to Etsy & New for Kituchi

2007-06-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

I just finished re-designing both my sites and linking them back to etsy. Etsy doesn't allow you to post links or URLs anywhere in your shop to your website as it encourages buyers to purchase your items elsewhere and that's considered fee avoidance. You cannot list an item for sale on Etsy and then list the same item for sale anywhere else.

Previously, I had been listing items on etsy and listing different items on my own website. This became a bit difficult for me, like trying to run numerous shops when all I really needed a website for is to drive more traffic to my etsy shop and list more information, have a page with it's own look and feel that tells people what my designs are about.

I've basically taken advantage of Etsy mini to create my website and all my items are linked back to etsy. All items can only be purchased through etsy so it's not fee avoidance. Hopefully things will just be much easier now.

Screenshots:

http://www.tenjewelcollection.com/

http://kituchi.com/

NEWLY LISTED AT: http://kituchi.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6266434

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6266315

Briolette Earrings

2007-06-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

I love a nice pair of simple brio earrings because they're so easy to wear, you can take them from casual to work to going out and they always look so pretty and elegant.

I made two pairs, the rosequartz ones are for myself, lol and and I'll put the blue chalcedonly ones up on etsy shortly:

MAH earrings!

I'll put these on http://tenjewel.etsy.com/

Grilled Cheese

2007-06-22T02:42:00.000-07:00

I saw these really tasty looking grilled cheese charms over on DeviantART. They are soooooo realistic and yummy looking…MMM-MMM! http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/57559984/?q=by%3Aaquanina&qh=sort%3Atime+-in%3Ascraps

*must see*
Available for purchase here: -
http://www.tinycravings.com/grilled-cheese-charm-new.html ~ Scented Custom Cupcake Jewelry here too, donuts, cookies and lots of other delicious jewelry.

Etsy Newbie Guide

2007-06-20T02:30:00.000-07:00

Sagittariusgallery posted a great newbie guide in the Etsy forums which is basically a list questions frequently posted in the help section with links to thread answers. It's a really well thought-out post that's very helpful and I'm sure it took a long time to compile so I thought I'd post a link here in case it gets buried: -

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5117255

To check it out, it's a great read even for seasoned etsyians!

New for Kituchi

2007-06-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

New items to be added.....

Njadean's Faerie Basket

2007-06-15T03:41:00.000-07:00

This is such a nice idea, it's really whimisal and sweet and I think we could all do with one of these at times: - http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/53267017/

Andalusite

2007-06-15T03:26:00.001-07:00

I've really been loving Andalusite lately. It really does seem to be an up-and-coming favourite among jewelry designers and it really is a fantastic gem. Faceted andalusite brios look great, they've got red, green, and yellow colours that resembles a muted form of iridescence.
Andalusite is a polymorph [kyanite and sillimanite], it's pleochroic so it shows different colours in different directions and it's really affordable too. How did I not discover this until now! I'm usually quite well up about these things.

Bestbeads had some for sale on Etsy, they're all sold out now but there's a good picture of it: - http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5429373

Kituchi Vintage Filigree Jewels

2007-05-23T02:22:00.000-07:00

I've just opened a second shop on etsy to concentrate on my filigree and vintage brass jewels: -
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5099922
Just a few items at the moment but I will be adding more regularly. I’ve been noticing that some of the most successful sellers, have found their niche and just stuck with it. I think it's important not to have a shop that has so many styles it loses its identity. I've been working hard to section my work and stick to promoting each section individually. It's easier for me to do it this way also because some venues have strict rules that the same item can't be listed in different venues, separating different styles to different places makes it less confusing and gives me better exposure.

Brain Controls

2007-05-08T03:54:00.000-07:00

You Are 65% Left Brained, 35% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

Lov.li

2007-05-08T03:52:00.000-07:00

I just joined Lov.li, my address is http://www.lov.li/users/1472. There’s just a few items at the moment but I will be adding more. No repeat items, everything is new and not available on etsy.

Sale!!!!!!!!

2007-05-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the sale section of my etsy shop. Selected items have been reduced by up to 50%!! Offer open for a limited time only!!!!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=61088&section_id=5079604

Etsians who Blog

2007-04-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Some great etsians & their blogs:

PamperingBeki
SeeJayneKnitYarns
artgirlx
moogancreations
marshallarts
KathyysKrafts
trystbykerry
lpdesigns
JenniferRydinDesigns
prairiedaisyhandspun
poppycat
groovyvinyl
sandramccall
KatiedidDesigns
faerwear
fairiesnest
InseineCreations
misseskwittys
appleandeve
gwillowcatstudio
angelstuff
ellebeestudio
MarmeeCraft
epositive
TheIvyLeaf
scarfitup
cinderelish
ArtisticJen
bellacolle
artgirlx
iSew
electrikolor
ellyzee
calobee
BestBeads
JustAnotherDay
AliciaBock

Much needed update

2007-04-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

Check out my new beaded, crochet cuff from Lilycobweb! Are you Jealous?
I think it’s totally awesome and so is Rena! Watch out for her on etsy http://lilycobweb.etsy.com/ or see some of her work on Designstolove http://www.designstolove.com/designer/lilycobweb/p1/lilycobweb.aspx

I bought me a new ring mandrel on ebay too. I love rings but it’s really hard to make them without a proper mandrel!

Most of my new supplies have arrived & I’ve added lots of new items to my shop. I’ve taken all new photographs for etsy as well. It was time to admit that I’m never going to get my camera back from my Ex and I can’t keep using the scanner so I bought a new camera, it’s a Canon PowerShot.

SOLD:

WISHLIST:
I saw this on the DeviantArt print shop & I think it would look an awful lot cooler on my wall, haha:).

Tragic Moustache by Gislene Mayumi Matsui, I just love it!

http://www.deviantart.com/print/427250/

New supplies & great handmade soap seller on etsy

2007-04-04T04:20:00.000-07:00

I just bought a load of new supplies, gemstone & sterling silver. I got some wonderful Indian rubies from nutraj over on etsy. I got some lovely watermelon tourmaline too and gorgeous peridot rondells. I also bought beautiful chalcedony briolettes that I plan to make earrings with and chunky coral, angelite, turquoise and lemon jade beads for rings. I finally bought bulk giverny glass which I usually buy by the bead so I'll be able to reduce my price on those. I bought bulk gemstone rounds as well and I probably won't use all of them so I'll be selling some at my etsy shop under supplies. I got lots of freshwater pearls, some lovely peacock colour ones and pearl sticks. I can't wait to start creating with all these great new goodies.

I also want to spotlight MartinsvilleEmporium for their gorgeous handmade soaps and lip balms. I just received my order from them and I absolutely love them, seriously addictive!! You must check them out!!! Will blog again soon !

Uisce - Woven suede pendant

2007-04-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

This is a new type of necklace which I did by weaving suede similar to how you would with wire and then decorating it with beads and pearls. I'm pretty pleased with the result & I love using fabric in my pieces!!

Site Re-designed

2007-03-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yay! I re-designed my website. Getting a decent gallery up and running is a total headache because you've got to get product descriptions, enlarged images and cart buttons all in there as neatly as possible so it looks good but is easy to navigate. I layed the gallery out on a table, used highslide to zoom on the thumbnails, added the description by tooltip and then placed the cart buttons underneath. I did all the graphics in photoshop myself. I'm obviously not the best web-designer but I’m happy with this new layout. Now for some screenshots.....

New Collage Pendants

2007-02-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

Some new collage pendants that I've been doing. The collage is placed over bamboo which I think looks much nicer than dominos. I’m redesigning my website so I’ll probably wait until the site is re-launched to put these up.

Welcome Message

2007-02-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome to TenJewel’s Blog! tenjewelcollection.com is my online store. I thought I’d start this new blog to concentrate on my jewelry creations but I’ll probably also use it to rant about blythe dolls, college, etsy etc.
Anyways, I will be showing you my designs here obviously and I’ll also be showcasing other fantastic designers whose work inspires me.