I’ve made a bit of progress, and have some silver bezels soldered. I’ve also started fabricating the pieces of some silver pendants I thought would be fun to make.
This class has been a lot of fun so far. The women are funny and much hilarity ensues during each session. I’ve gotten over my fear of burning the place down and feel pretty comfortable with the torch now. So comfortable in fact, that I’ve got a bench set up in the garage. Lovely hubby was kind enough to clear a work space for me for my torch and all the associated accoutrements.
I know, the bezels look HORRIBLE as they still need to be trimmed, cleaned and polished. But it is progress.
Tomorrow I’ll post a pic of the silver and blue aventurine ring I finished.
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Shiny Spotlight Thursday
There are some really talented artists, designers and creators that sell their handmade items on Artfire and etsy. I thought it might be nice to highlight some of the things that caught my eye this week while browsing.
Clicking on each image will link you to the seller of each item, if you decide you simply must purchase it.
If you haven’t opened an account on etsy to purchase handmade items, you really should. Also, if you haven’t checked out Artfire in a while, you need to browse the new shops and the new studio designs. Artfire doesn’t require you to open an account to purchase handmade goods. Easy peasy.
Have you seen all the really cute handmade baby and kid stuff available on Artfire and etsy? Enjoy.
Baby Leather Elephant Moks by Scandeez
Koto Japanese Lounge Set byMountain Aven Baby
Sock monkeys from Muffin Top Designs
Handpainted Step Stool from Growin Like a Weed
Bucket Hat by Snooky Doodle
Happy Shopping everyone!
Look for the Shiny Spotlight every Thursday.
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I saw a thread in the etsy forums today with the title “Is Free Shipping the new black?” Perfect timing, as I’ve been noodling the idea for the last week or so.
I read an article called “Is Free Shipping More Attractive Than A Dollar Discount?” a couple of weeks ago that prompted the thought process. I’ve never been one to base my purchasing decision on whether or not the item would be shipped to me for free. Well, except for commodity type items, like books. Amazon is a perfect example in my case. If I am able to purchase EXACTLY the same book for the same price I can get it locally AND have it shipped for free to my front door, instead of having to drive to the store, physically pick it off the shelf, stand in line to pay and then drive home, then, well, I generally choose to make my purchase at Amazon.
So, does free shipping really matter with handmade items? Will it make an impact in number of sales? By default, with the exception of a few core items, handmade isn’t a commodity item. Meaning that in most cases, there are substantial differences in design, materials and quality. My buying decision is based on those things and not the price, generally. There are definitely sellers of handmade that are extremely successful, AND offer free shipping. Does the one contribute to the other?
And, does offering free shipping entice the buyer of handmade goods to purchase additional items he/she might not otherwise? I don’t know, but I’m willing to experiment a bit. I’ve edited the shipping profiles in both my Artfire (well, sort of on Artfire. I’m working on editing EACH listing. sigh) and my etsy shops to state that shipping is only charged on the first item. Each subsequent item in the same purchase is shipped for free. Time will tell if this is something that appeals to buyers.
What’s been your experience so far? Both as a buyer and a seller? Have you changed your shipping profile lately in your shop? Have you noticed any impact?
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From time to time, I profile fellow artisans from Artfire and etsy. Today’s artisan profile belongs to Gail from Jewelry by Gail Mason. Gail is a fellow member on the Starving Artists Jewelry forum. If you’d like to chat with like minded, seriously talented artists, join us.
“Gail has been an artist for many years. She studied painting with professional artist Stacy Netherland and promoted and sold her work around the country. Gail also spent many years working with gemstones and jewelry on a retail level. Most recently she studied jewelry design with artisan Lynne Anderson.
Gail is a member in the SRAJD (Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer). Gail has a style all her own and works wonders with wire, beads, metal and glass. She is developing her skills in making lampwork glass and also has recently added chain-maille woven jewelry to her line. She remains focused on the needs and desires of the individual in her custom order pieces.
Her industry knowledge is based upon practical experience gained through attending trade shows and while working in a number of traditional jewelry stores for several years. She is very capable in judging the quality, style and fit of all types of jewelry.
Just a little information about my business name. I started out planning to paint and sell my artwork (canvas) along with wooden furniture that my husband builds (wood) and some craft items (things). As time went on I found the jewelry design much more to my liking and have expanded into doing primarily just that. As the name was established and registered I decided to keep it for now.
I enjoy doing home parties and trunk shows. I invested in the display and racks needed for trunk shows so now I can take all or part of my inventory to a persons home or business for a showing. ”
What are your favorite materials?
Sterling silver and Swarovski crystals
What are your favorite pieces to create?
Currently chain maille weaves with crystal accents. I did some lampwork and liked that but it is an entirely different media.
What inspires you?
When I finish a piece the final result always gets me ready for another challenge.
How do you describe your design style?
Mostly traditional, following acceptable patterns with my own variations thrown in.
What artists have influenced you, and how?
Lynn Anderson taught me lampwork and showed me that aspect of jewelry. My chainmaille knowledge came from “Spyder” and her videos and some great books on maille.
What advice would you give to an artist just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to try it but plan on spending time learning and investing money in supplies.
What do you wish someone would have told you when you first started selling online? Web site creation is not easy and does not always result in a profit.
How do you spend time when you are NOT creating?
I work 42 hours a week and use my 3 days off to create jewelry items. My husband and I like to travel when time permits. Sometimes a day trip is all we can get though.
Thanks Gail!
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Shiny Spotlight Thursday
There are some really talented artists, designers and creators that sell their handmade items on Artfire and etsy. I thought it might be nice to highlight some of the things that caught my eye this week while browsing.
Clicking on each image will link you to the seller of each item, if you decide you simply must purchase it.
If you haven’t opened an account on etsy to purchase handmade items, you really should. Also, if you haven’t checked out Artfire in a while, you need to browse the new shops and the new studio designs. Artfire doesn’t require you to open an account to purchase handmade goods. Easy peasy.
The US celebrates it’s independence this weekend. This week’s selections were inspired by that red, white and blue themed holiday.
Itty Bitty Medium Tote Handbag – Red White and Blue – Handmade Purse By Itty Bitty Bags
Red, White and Blue Lampwork Bead by Betsy Beads
All American Apple Pie 16oz Hand-Poured All Natural Soy Wax Candle By Sky Line Candle Company
4th of July tutu set By Glitz Glam Boutique
Patriotic Dog Collar from Retro Animals
Look for the Shiny Spotlight every Thursday.
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My pal, and very talented jewelry designer, Brandi from Catie’s Blue, posted about the words people use to find her shop, according to Google Analytics. You should read her blog post aptly titled Google Analytics – Hilarious .
Her post prompted me to share some of the more hysterical search terms used to find my etsy shop. I figured you might get a giggle out of them as well. Plus, I have an ulterior motive. I’d like you to comment and share some of yours. Google Analytics is my friend.
LOL
So without further ado, here is my list of some of the more, ahem, interesting search terms used to find my etsy shop. BTW.. have you SEEN my etsy shop? I’m pretty sure none of these things exist in it, nor have they EVER existed in it.
1. lavender pigs
2. 1970s modern plastic desk
3. american tourister vintage tiara train case
4. art deco bowls
5. babys first mukluks
6. betty crocker dinner for two cook book 1958
7. black tap pant women’s plus (comment from author: Seriously? Seriously)
8. fetus necklace (huh?)
9. foundling (I guess it could be worse.. it could be fondling. LOL)
10. how to crochet balls
11. sperm earrings (um, wha?)
12. stuffed animal noses
Ok, your turn. What are your favorites?
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