MonkeyBuns

New to MonkeyBuns

2010-05-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

Things have been pretty busy in my life. I'm working at my "real job" a lot more. The coffee industry is a great deal of fun but it does keep me away from my two passions in life Anthony and my jewelry. Thankfully I work with a great group of ladies and a gent.
These are a few of the new pieces to MonkeyBuns.

Lake House

Honey Coils

Apple Grove

2010-05-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

The first weekend in May I participated in the Waverly Art Walk 2010. This Art Walk was an amazing way to kick off craft season! I meet a lot of talented artist in Waverly. Here are a few of their fabulous works of art. Remember to support you're local art community!!!

Cole Art Pottery

Wheel-thrown Stoneware Art Pottery

Douglas Cole

Sumner, IA

deccvc@iowatelecom.net

Steve Hunter Design

Illustration and Design for Advertising

Cedar Falls

sh.design@cfu.net

MetalWorks

Dave Leeper

Cedar Rapids

www.leeperarts.com

Prange's Fabric Pictures

Hand Apppliqued Wall Hangings

Greeting Cards

Meg Prange

Russell

meg.prange@yahoo.com

JK Creative Wood

Kalona

Jkwood@kctc.net

Lightworks

Hand Mard Art

Brad Howland

Cedar Falls

www.lightworksart.etsy.com

Bent Thoughts

Metal Garden Sculptures

Rod

Oskaloosa

info@bent-thoughts.com

www.bent-thoughts.com

Waverly Art Bus

Displays art work done by Middle and High School students from Waverly and the surrounding areas.

Stan

2010-04-22T17:42:00.001-07:00

Stan, originally uploaded by Monkey Buns Etsy.

**Introducing a new line to MonkeyBuns**

Stan is a punky little guy who just wants to have fun; even if it's naughty. Join Stan through his beaded journey.

Stan is quite the naughty little guy sometimes. He's hand bead woven in a two drop Peyote stitch. The spring green and crisp white pair nicely in this cuff.

Stan measures 7 1/4"x 1 1/4".

This cuff was complete with a silver twist clasp. Once this clasp is locked into place it's not going any where!

Stay tuned for the next Stan cuff!!

Reading a Peyote Graph...

2010-03-08T08:50:00.000-08:00

Reading a Peyote graph is something that I've never been able to do. I have long ago added it in with crochet and knitting. These concepts are understood by my brain and yet the connection gets dropped between the brain and hands. Well I've been giving my own Peyote patterns a go again. This time I've been using a word chart. What a difference that makes!
I've been working on some new patterns in Herringbone stitch. Here are a few of my new completed pieces in Herringbone

Eye of the Storm

Swirls

Stay tuned for updates on new Peyote Cuffs. Perhaps an owl shall appear soon....

Great Treasury Feature

2010-02-19T15:28:00.000-08:00

2010 New Years Resolutions

2010-01-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again where we all pledge to do things that we know we won't simply because we don't have anyone to answer to if we don't. There is no punishment if we don't give up the sweets, be nicer to people, or spend less money. This year I'm dedicated to keeping my business New Years Resolutions.

Keep up on my tax stuff through out the year not 2 days before I they're due. Here's a great program to track your income and expenses for the year http://secure.outright.com/income

Organize my beads and work station. I need to learn to work within my space and clean up afterwards lol.

Re-shoot my photos. I've already started this one!

Apply for more art shows rather than craft show which often tend to be more like flea markets in my area.

Market myself better

I have more but realistically the more I pledge to do the more likely it won't get done.

I challenge each of you to make your New Year Resolutions public so you are accountable for them.

Be a better JET

Jalousie Etsy Find of the Week

2009-12-13T13:56:00.000-08:00

Jalousie is a new T-shirt shop on Etsy. Right now they have one design available in a variety of colours including: black, light grey, navy blue and light blue.

These tanks are longer than most on the market creating a slimming effect. Made from cotton they are breathable and comfortable! If there banner is any indicator then great things will continue to come from this shop in the future.

Available in Women’s sizes XS, S, M, L, XL

Are you interested in being featured as MonkeyBuns' Etsy Find of the Week? Let me know!

Etsy Problems

2009-12-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

If you are an active member of Etsy then you know about the daily struggles that handmade artist face. Between the same shops being featured over and over again, resellers, glitches in the system and people who are selling (and taking money from us) items that are not handmade Etsy is forecasting an internal storm.

What it really boils down to is that Etsy wants to make money and they'll make it any way they can. I think in the beginning they really did care about providing a venue where handmade artist were allowed to gather and be successful. Then as time passed and they got so famous their morals and ideals took a down slide. This problem is not limited to just Etsy it can be seen in most successful businesses. When one person, say an Etsy Artist, is in complete control of their shop they make all the designs, they chose the prices and qualities of their products, they market the product. Now lets say that shop owner gains huge success and now their demand is so great they can't possibly do everything themselves as they are only humans so they start taking on employees to take some of the weight and stress off themselves. As the business continues to grow more of the day to day decisions are filtered down the chain OWNER----->VP----->Manager----->Employee. Every time some one makes a decision for you about your business they bring their own set of morals and visions to the table that may not match the owner's. The owner however is now busy thinking about other things other than the little day to day things they used to love and thrive off. In Etsy's case where at one point the owner really did care about us artists they have so many other things on their plates that they forgot about those of us who got them where they are today. The members of their chain care about getting a good pay check in this economy and the bills they have to pay. Where does that leave us artist?

I've observed that some artist have taken on the "if you can't beat them join them" theory. I ask how does this help our cause? How can we yell about our rights as handmade artists when our fellow artist are selling out? In some cases instead of standing on the front line and making it known that with out us artists Etsy can make no money artist have gone to . If there's nothing to buy there's no money going into Etsy. Is it realistic that every seller will shut up shop? No because we have bills to pay.

I've been told more than once at craft shows, through family and friends that "you know if you just make ___________and sell it for ________ you'd make so much money" I generally say that isn't my business vision. I don't want to mass produce junk in order to sell because that makes me cheap. I fully understand that in this economy not everyone can buy one of my cuffs for forty dollars. My solution? To pour my skill into a skinnier version to allow for price variance. I use the same quality materials and love in my Skinny Minis and I do in my bigger pieces. That has become my solution. I don't believe in using cheaper products to mass product items that I see are selling well. If you start doing that then you've become the Owner who sells out.

I encourage artists to make a stand and make it your own. Stand on the front line in a way that makes you comfortable.

What are your thoughts?

Great Winter Trend Colors Winner!!

2009-11-30T08:41:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Sabrita the winner of MonkeyBuns' November give away!!!

sabrita said...

I am such a fan of green- the dark sage is my favorite. Thank you.

sabrita@juno.com

If you didn't win this time stay tuned for MonkeyBuns' next blog give away!!!

Black Friday Sale

2009-11-26T06:07:00.000-08:00

Black Friday Sale

30% off at MonkeyBuns

11/27/2009

Don't fight the crowds

stay in the comfort of your home

and find the perfect gift

for all the women in you life!!!

Iowa Craft:39 MacNider Museum Exhibit Update

2009-11-25T08:36:00.000-08:00

Iowa Craft:39 Exhibit

This weekend the Iowa Craft:39 MacNider Museum Exhibit opened in Mason City. In addition to the opening of the Exhibit an awards ceramony was held. I must admit I didn't think I'd place although I was hopefully. They announced honorable mention and it wasn't my name. At that point I started telling myself it's a honor to be included and this is great exposure. Then they read the best in jewelry category winner and it was me!! I just thought hey they said my name. I was shocked that my simpler piece won even though I myself am drawn to simple pieces.

My favorite man was my date as well as my parents.

The lovely judge and me at my display.

Great Winter Trend Colors

2009-11-16T07:14:00.000-08:00

As a jewelry designer I am realizing that it extremely important to know what new color trends are coming. Sometimes I baulk at the colors and I'm right and then sometimes I have to kick myself. But at last Winter 2009 colors are right up my

personal color love alley. I love love love rich earthy tones.

Drum roll please:

Leave MonkeyBuns a comment letting us know which color or piece you love the most and why. You could win a $10.00 Gift Certificate to MonkeyBuns!!! Drawing will be on Nov. 30th!!! Let your friends know.

Monday what else is there to say

2009-11-09T06:16:00.000-08:00

Good morning blog followers!

It is again Monday :( the world's longest day. I work at my "real" job six days a week now so it seems like Sundays burn away so quickly. I have been working hard at wire wrapping on Sundays. I've seen my ups and downs and a few bruises along the way.

Two out of the four pieces I submitted to the Iowa Craft Exhibit were accepted.

The will be exhibited at MacNider Museum from November 19th to February 20th.

MonkeyBuns Update

2009-10-26T07:08:00.000-07:00

I'm currently waiting to hear if I made it into MacNider Art Museum's Iowa Crafts Exhibit. I entered the following pieces:

Fall Crossing

Queen's Tea

Rainy Days

Stockman

I should hear something the first week of November. If I'm accepted I'll be in the exhibit through February and stand to win some money.

In other news MonkeyBuns has seen a couple horrible craft shows in the last month. This weekend really took the grand prize. We had to content with a horrible band that did a sound check all day. The horrible music drove away customers but you win some and lose some. I highly advise that you when you are signing up for craft shows that you ask for vendor contact information from the previous year and contact those people for a honest review of the show. The promoter will always tell you it was a fabulous show. I encourage you to post your best craft show tip in comments.

If you enjoy my ramblings let others know!

Jet Sale 9/25-9/27

2009-09-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

JETSALE : WEEKEND DEALS 25 - 27 September 2009

Snuggle up this weekend with some great offers from the JET team on
Etsy. Whether you're looking for something special for a birthday,
would like to accessorize your outfit for the upcoming Halloween fun,
or are already looking forward to the Christmas season - you'll find
plenty of jewellery and accessories to choose from in the JET team
SALE.

JET team comprises of a large number of artisans who handcraft and
present for sale their own creations directly to you. There are many
styles of jewellery to choose from, and if, on an odd chance, you
don't find exactly what you're looking for, you can always request a
custom item. Supplies, clutches, bags, hair accessories, scarves, pins
and many other items are also included in this promotion.

Shop local with us! Whether you're in US, Canada, UK, Australia, Asia,
Brazil, or Europe - you'll find a shop close to you as our members are
located all over the world!

To take advantage of JET team SALE, visit any of the shops in the list
below & note the Shop Announcement on the home page. Each shop has
it's own special discounts during this weekend, but each request you
either to contact them for a custom/reserved listing mentioning
'WEEKEND DEALS', or, alternatively put 'WEEKEND DEALS' in notes to the
seller at the checkout in order to take advantage of the discounts.

MonkeyBuns will be offering 25% off my sale section and free shipping store wide.

LIST OF PARTICIPATING SHOPS:
http://3squares.etsy.com
http://abacusbeadcreations.etsy.com
http://adroitjewelers.etsy.com
http://Angeliquescreations.etsy.com
http://artmadebytammy.etsy.com
http://beadifuldesigns.etsy.com
http://brookejewelry.etsy.com
http://capitalcitycrafts.etsy.com
http://cocosgreenhouse.etsy.com
http://combustionglassworks.etsy.com
http://cooljewelrydesign.etsy.com
http://cooljewelryjr.etsy.com
http://crystalimpressions.etsy.com
http://danugs.etsy.com
http://dashery.etsy.com
http://designsbycher.etsy.com
http://divinedesignbyforet.etsy.com
http://emotionaloasis.etsy.com
http://erikaprice.etsy.com
http://foret.etsy.com
http://forettwo.etsy.com
http://grandmamarilyns.etsy.com
http://grandmamarilynstoo.etsy.com
http://intheraw.etsy.com
http://jdsgemsnd.etsy.com
http://jemsbyjbandcompany.etsy.com
http://jewelry24seven.etsy.com
http://justicejewelry.etsy.com
http://littlebrownbird.etsy.com
http://littlebugjewelry.etsy.com
http://lotusstone.etsy.com
http://lucidjewelry.etsy.com
http://malves1009.etsy.com
http://marciejanedesigns.etsy.com
http://metalicious.etsy.com
http://michon.etsy.com
http://nightskyjewelry.etsy.com
http://ovgilliesdesigns.etsy.com
http://satindollco.etsy.com
http://sendinglovegallery.etsy.com
http://stoutdg2.etsy.com
http://sugarpanda.etsy.com
http://thebrasshussy.etsy.com
http://urbanmetal.etsy.com
http://vitrine.etsy.com

August Bead-a-Day Calendar Challenge Update

2009-09-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

Well September is upon us and rather quickly I might add. I've been hard at work on the Bead-a-Day Calendar Challenge for August. Wouldn't you know it the awesome cabs I got from my fellow JET, Tara at CombustionGlassWorks, sprouted legs and walked away. So I had to dive deep into my stash and found a great broach that was once my grandma's. I hope to complete it very soon over my four day weekend. Until then please shout out your dates for the September challenge!!

August Bead-a-Day Calendar Challenge

2009-07-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone who shared their pick and story! I decided to put all the dates in a hat and drew one. The winner for the month of August is...................Sending Love's Birthday March 4th. Once I drew the winner I scampered to my Bead-a-Day Calendar to check and see what the project will bring. Turns out it's a continuation from March 3rd. My project for Augst will be a Framed Cabochon Brooch. This is something I've wanted to do for awhile and have been horrible at it. Check back through out August to see my progress.

For those of you whose dates weren't drawn this month never fear! I'll leave yours in for the next drawing. Until then keep those dates coming!!!

New Blog Challenge

2009-07-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

This year I bought the greatest tear away calendar! The Bead-a-Day 2009 Beading Calendar. It's fabulous but I have no idea where to start. I know I could just start in January and work my way through but what fun is that? If I knew what was coming the Beading ADD in me would kick into gear and I'd have a bunch of half completed projects running around. So I'm asking you my blog reads the few of you our there to pick the date of my project of adventure each month.

On the first of every month I'll attempt the project of the day for the month. If it's a quick project I may do two a month. Then when I'm done you can be the judge.

Please pick a day of the year and tell me why it's significant to you.

It's Been Awhile

2009-07-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the best blogger in the world seeing at the last time I blogged was two months ago. Opps.

So what is keeping me so busy? Balancing real life and the dream.

I recently did two show and learnt a lot from them. One was an up class art world sale and the other was a carnival craft showed. I paid around the same for each one only the carnival show was 3 days and the art show was 1. Guess what? I did much better at the art show. I now know my market. Knowing my market and watching my stats on websites had really shown me who to target.

Speaking of shows I have two upcoming shows in August. On August 8th you can find me at Affordables on 1St's Annual Business Expo and Party in Mason City Iowa from 10-4. Afforables on 1st is a great place that provides jobs for the Medially Handicapped. They asked me to donate for their drawing and silent auction. I made a Rose Quartz wire wrapped necklace with a shiny metal tree pendant with complimentary wire wrapped bracelet and earrings. I haven't take the photos yet.

August 15th You can find me in Charles City Iowa at the Art-A-Fest show from 10-4.

Besides all of that I have really seen some success of Etsy as of late. I wish that I had enjoyed this success before I went back to work. Perhaps then I wouldn't have gone back to work. I recently completed the first bracelet in a new line of bangles and some resin pieces. Picture to come when I get a chance to take them.

I will have to take a short break from the crazy ideas in my head to complete a string of custom orders.
Stayed tuned to a new blog challenge........

Lipstick Lady Wired Wrapped Charm Bracelet

2009-05-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to own a Lipstick Victorian house. The architecture in a Lipstick Victorian home is just beautiful. Unfortunately updating a home of that era to be eco friendly is very expensive so for now that is just a dream. When I first saw the beads I used to create this bracelet I immediately thought Lipstick Victorian house. Each of these little faucted purple, green, gold and cranberry plastic beads was hand wrapped using gold color head pins to increase the richness of the bracelet. Lipstick Lady was finished completed with a magnetic gold ball clasp. Lipstick Lady Wired Wrapped Charm Bracelet measures 7 5/8".

4th of July

2009-05-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of the 4th of July. It maybe because my birthday is around the same time or it could be the carnival, the parade, the huge craft show. It seemed only natural to make this 4th of July Charm Bracelet.

Sutlry

2009-05-18T06:18:00.001-07:00

Sultry: characterized by or arousing passion

This weeks finds are all about sultriness. These are my top 5 picks from a search for Sultry.

1. Follow the Raven-Print
by SandyMichelle
2.

Sultry Red and Black with Cheetah Print Organza Garter

by Garter Lady

Aronia Eyeliner Eye Shadow Vegan Deep Purple Matte Mineral Makeup Pink Quartz Minerals

by pinkquartzminerals

4.

Indiscretion Ear Bobs

by gypsyeyesjewelry

5.

PRINT - The Way It Has Always Been

by John Clark

Strawberry Daiquiri Cube Cuff

2009-05-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

Strawberry Daiquiri Cube Cuff

Strawberry Daiquiris are sweet with a punch of flavor so why not wear one on your wrist? Strawberry Daiquiri Cuff is a great way to jazz up an outfit this summer. Each clear color lined cube was hand woven to create this summery cuff. Strawberry Daiquiri was finished off with a silver hook clasp. Strawberry Daiquiri Cuff measures 7 1/4"x1".

What's going on at Monkeybuns?

2009-04-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

Hello All
It's been awhile since I blogged. Right now life is a little hectic between my "real job" as a preschool teacher, planning my first open house and applying to craft shows. This weekend is my first open house wow talk about tense lol. I've only done one craft show and now I'm working on this open house where it's just me. This first go around is going to be friends and family. I'm looking forward to my first run. I'm also looking for craft shows and I have found a couple that I'm really looking forward to them. I still have to get in first so keep those fingers crossed.
I'm very excited about where I want to be next year at this time with Monkeybuns. I recently read a blog entry from Tim Adam. The article was about using Twitter, Facebook etc but what I really learnt from it was that you can't think of your Etsy shop as a place to sell your hobby you have to think of it as a business. I've thought about my Etsy shop as a business but have always been really shy about marketing my items to friends and family. It is my goal to step outside my thoughts of my jewelry and try to be a better spokes person. Next year at this time I want to be a full time jewelry maker not working for "the man". I challenge those of you who are currently doing the 9-5 to take this journey with me.

Beach View Charm Bracelet

2009-04-21T08:33:00.001-07:00

Beach View Charm Bracelet, originally uploaded by Monkey Buns Etsy.

I've decided to branch out into other jewelry. My first new branch is wire work. I must say at first I was really frustrated but now I find wire work fun. I'm still learning all the ins and outs.

Light Bright Cuff

2009-04-01T13:45:00.001-07:00

Light Bright Cuff, originally uploaded by Monkey Buns Etsy.

Grab a piece of your childhood with this new cuff!

JET SPRING FLING SALES!!

2009-03-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

Jet Spring Fling Officially starts tomorrow!!!

My fellow JET team members have so awesome sales going on!

DASHERYFREE SHIPPING in the US and Canada FREE CIRCLE SHELL EARRINGS with order over $25 and SPECIAL SALE SECTION of up to 50% off

Sendinglovegallery

15% off one jewelry item, 20% off two

MichonFree gift with purchase, plus free shipping on orders over $25. Use code "fling" at check out.

CrystalImpressions

Be sure to visit MY SPRING FLING SECTION for huge sales for these 3 days!
25% SPRING FLING SECTION....PLEASE CONVO ME for price adjustments!!!!!!

3squares

I'll be offering free world-wide shipping on all items in my shop this weekend.

ErikaPrice

20% discount on all
jewelry in my special JETS SPRING FLING section. Plus FREE world-
wide shipping, and all profits from my jewelry sales donated to charity!

AdroitJewelers
Buy one get one 1/2 off

OVGILLIESDESIGNS
FREE postage on all items in the SpRiNg fLiNg section & any from any other section ordered at the same time (all items to be sent together). Plus a FREE pair of the lovely BLUE LAKE earrings with all orders over $50. (BLUE LAKE earrings option is provisional at the moment as I'm in the process of getting more beads.) All orders made during the Fling Weekend will be sent out on Monday-Tuesday.

MonkeyBuns25% off my Spring Fling Sale Section

Spring Fling Event

2009-03-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

Click on the invite for more information!

Everyone who is anyone is going to be there!! I haven't decided exactly what my sale will be so stay tuned for my sale update and my fellow Jets sale updates!!! See you there!

Announcing a new blog challenge

2009-03-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

It's not secrete that the economy has taken a huge hit. As an Etsy artist I've felt the wrath of sales dropping off and picking up. This year I'm all about giving back to my Etsy Economy. I've sat down and thought how can I do this? I can't really afford to buy everything I want off Etsy; and the list of things I want is huge; so how can I give back in a fun way? Blog Challenge is what I've come up with. What is Blog Challenge What does it mean for the Etsy community? What's in it for me? These are probably the questions you're asking yourself.
What is Blog Challenge?
Blog Challenge is a monthly contest. At the beginning of each month a new challenge will be issued. Everyone on Etsy is welcome to try the challenge which will consist of a theme. I will post the theme challenge on the first of the month and you will have til the last day of the month to complete your Blog Challenge for the following month.
Example: For April the theme is going to be Spring. It is your job to complete a Blog Challenge piece that you feel represents spring in your craft arena. You have until March 31st at 9am centeral time to email me at krystal.backer@gmail.com with a photo of your item along with your shop link. Voting for April will take place on my blog starting April 2nd ending on Aprile 9th. On April 10th the winner will be announced.

What's in it for you?
The winner will receive a feature on my blog. In addition I will promote you that month using Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, and the Etsy Forums. Second place winner will get to choose a theme for an upcoming challenge.

What's in it for the Etsy Community?
This is a great way for the Etsy Community to work together to help each other sell. It is also a great way to meet other Etsians.

If this sounds like something you would be interested in doing please get your spring inspired items emailed to me at krystal.backer. Then check back April 2nd to vote! Don't forget to tell your friends and family to vote too!
Good luck!!

I'm on Cheap Tweet

2009-02-27T13:59:00.000-08:00

Please stop by and vote!

Starring2 by CCCraftstudion

2009-02-27T05:57:00.001-08:00

starring2, originally uploaded by cccraftstudio.

First a little from the artist:
A twinkling sterling silver starlight bead sits on the top of your finger, shining brightly. The star bead is slightly under 3/4" in diameter. The shank of the ring is sculptured cast sterling silver, finished to a mirror shine.
This ring is approximately size 7. It is not available in other sizes.
Due to the nature of it's construction, you may need a slightly bigger size than you normally wear.
Handmade in New jersey, shipped in a gift box.

Now a little from me:
I love this ring it's so whimsical! With Capital City Crafts Studio you are guaranteed the finest craftsmanship! You can find this fabulous ring for sale in Capital City Crafts Studio's Etsy shop.

Spring Fling Bracelet

2009-02-23T11:19:00.001-08:00

Spring Fling Bracelet, originally uploaded by Monkey Buns Etsy.

Fresh cut grass, children playing in parks full of laughter, sun shinning high in the sky with warm winds around us, pretty new flowers in bloom. Aaa the feeling of spring bring us renewed energy. Spring Fling captures these feelings for me. I hand wove each of the green Toho beads and pink lined clear cubes in a Peyote stitch to create this eye catcher. Spring Fling was completed with a great silver oval clasp.
Spring Fling measures 7 1/2" x 1 1/4".Fresh cut grass, children playing in parks full of laughter, sun shinning high in the sky with warm winds around us, pretty new flowers in bloom. Aaa the feeling of spring bring us renewed energy. Spring Fling captures these feelings for me. I hand wove each of the green Toho beads and pink lined clear cubes in a Peyote stitch to create this eye catcher. Spring Fling was completed with a great silver oval clasp.
Spring Fling measures 7 1/2" x 1 1/4".

Black Friday Sale

2008-11-28T05:59:00.000-08:00

Today is Black Friday on Etsy too!
My shop is offering
10% off rings
20% off bracelets and rings
FREE gift of a custom skinny mini with purchases over $50.00 *shipping not included *price is after the discount is applied
Visit my shop!

Hitting a Big Goal

2008-11-03T06:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I hit a goal I've been after for some time now! I received my 400th heart on Etsy. For those of you who don't know hearts on Etsy represent people who love your work.

Jet Holiday Sales of my fellow JETS

2008-10-25T18:53:00.001-07:00

Here is a list of fabulous jewelry and sales for the annual JET Holiday Sale. Please check these shops out for your holiday gift needs!Malves1009
Check out my JHS- JET Holiday Sale section for some great buys on some lovely jewelry. The prices reflect the discount already for easy checkout, if there is anything else you're interested in just shoot me a convo and we'll work it out.

LittleBugJewelry
I am offering %15 off all my JHS items, plus some of the necklaces come with a free gift. PLUS anyone who buys anything from any section of my shop during JHS is entered to win a surprise gift

Metalicious

Metalicious is offering 30% off her Jet Holiday Sale Section!

SilverCanyons

☆♥ All items in my JHS section have been marked down for hassle free shopping during the sale. ☆♥
★ ★ ADDITIONAL SAVINGS: I am offering tiered discounts throughout my entire store: ★ ★
if you spend $25.00 or more, you’ll receive 10% off an additional item
if you spend $50.00 or more, you’ll receive 20% off an additional item
if you spend $75.00 or more, you’ll receive 25% off an additional item
If you spend $100.00 or more, you’ll receive 40% off an additional item

Please type "JHS - I want my ___ % Discount! " in the notes at checkout to receive your discount!
Wait until I send you a revised invoice through PayPal, which will reflect your discount.

CoolJewelryJR

CooljewelryJR is offering 20% off items in sale section; 10% off all others. If you spend $100, take 40% off another item. I plan on changing my sale around...and the items around.

BusyBeads
Check out BusyBeads Holiday Special Sale section for sale items!

AdroitJewelers

I have FREE SHIPPING on EVERYTHING in my shop, PLUS and additional 10% off anything in the Jet Holiday Sale Section. Prices have already been reduced in that section. Here is a picture of one item in that section.

Jemsbyjbandcompany

Our JHS Sale is currently 20% off any of the items in our JHS section. Avoid the rush and start your holiday shopping now!!!!
Put JHS in your notes to seller section of the invoice and wait for a corrected billing prior to paying. Or, if you prefer, we can refund you the discount through paypal.

Vandiva

Vandiva is offering 25% of her whole shop! There is a large selection to choose from.

SendingLove Gallery

Please take a look at my JHS section for handcrafted jewelry perfect for the holiday season. All have been specially priced for the duration of the sale. Save even more with a 20% discount on everything else in my shop...I will refund all 20% discounts through PayPal, or I can send you a revised invoice if you convo me first. Save even more: if you spend $50 or more on JHS and regular merchandise (net total, after any 20% discounts are taken) Enjoy FREE SHIPPING

The BrassHussy
The BrassHussy is offering a BOGO sale of buy one get one half off!!

✈JET Holiday Sale Special✈

2008-10-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

I'm kicking off the JET Holiday Sale with a great deal. Starting at midnight all my cube bracelets will be 35% off!! This sale will run through the 28th. Keep checking back for the next sale!!
Introducing Carnival Glass just in time for this sale! Please search JHSJETTEAM to find other great deals on fabulous jewelry!!

2008-10-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

JET Holiday Sale
10.26.08-11.08.08
Check out my Etsy Shop for great holiday gifts
Through out this mega sale I'll be running different Sales!!!

My First Craft Show

2008-09-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Today was my first craft show. It seemed liked I wouldn't get everything done in time but I did. I worked really hard to build up stock for the show and this morning I was blessed to have my family help me set up. I got off to a rocky start because I was right next to another jewelry booth and the lady kept giving me dirty looks. My husband wasn't able to help me past setting up because he had to take care of our little monkey. I was really lucky that both my parents really wanted to help. It was a fabulous day for weather 76 degrees with a light wind. It happened to be Dillinger Day's. I happen to live in Mason City Iowa where Dillinger robbed a bank. They did reenactments all day and offered music, food and fun. I sold 9 bracelets and got a order for a custom piece. Over all I had a fun day with my parents and made some money too. I got invited to another show in November and I can't wait!

A topsy turby day

2008-08-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

It has been quite the topsy turby day already and it's only 9:30. My morning started off at 1 am when my husband woke up with the flu. Poor guy when he gets sick he usually gets really sick. At about 7 my son woke up and came to wake me up. Of course he didn't know that his daddy is home with the flu so when my husband sat up it scared him. He took off running for the bathroom, slipped on the rug and hit his jaw/chin on the bath tub. At first I thought he was okay just a bump but then I saw a bunch of blood on my shirt. Then I noticed that his chin/jaw had a gash on it. So it was off to the ER where they had to glue his face back together. I hate hate hate it when my little guy gets hurt! He was so brave and was more worried about Daddy being sick. Once I had Anthony set up with his dough nut (his bravery treat) I went about checking my email and Etsy. Guess what? I was on the front page!! This is the 3rd time and it always feels like the first time. My fellow Jet, Lavalleygirly, got me the following screen shot. My bracelet is the first box in the third row down.Today I will also see the end of my bead hiatus. You maybe wondering doesn't she have more time left? I do I have 1 and a 1/2 months left. However my local bead store is closing and selling all their stuff for cheap. I can't resist a good deal. After this load up I shall be done for awhile I swear!! My mom ran across a craft fair going on next month so I'm going to be doing my first show. I'm really nervous. I'll keep you all updated on the progress of my show and my little guy's face. As always Happy Crafting and stay away from the bath tub monsters!

Thinking Outside the Box Fridays- Promoting

2008-08-15T04:16:00.000-07:00

I know that some people are under the logic if I build an Etsy shop they will come. Sorry to tell you this but that just isn't true. Running an online shop is much different than running a brick and morter shop where someone may find you in the phone book or by chance. In the online world you have to promote yourself. I work under the logic of you'll get out of Etsy what you put into Etsy. So let's talk promotion. There are ways to promote yourself on Etsy like forums, showcases, treasuries etc. but today I want to talk about promoting outside of Etsy to bring new buyers into our shops.

Myspace/Facebook
If you don't already promote yourself on Myspace or Facebook I suggest setting up an account dedicated solely to your Etsy shop. You should add as many people as you can that you think will genuinely be interested in your craft. Once you add someone look at their friends would any of them be interested? Myspace offers groups join ones that apply to you! Then network your butt off.

Stumble Yourself
There is a great way to help yourself get traffic it's called StumbleUpon. Basically it's a place where you can submit websites that you think are interesting. Every time you list an new item Stumble it.

Find Forums
Do a Google search for forums that apply to you. Ning is a great community with a lot of communities to join. You can post pictures, talk on forums, and promote yourself.

Ecard
Ecard is a great place to promote your blog, there by promoting your shop. Once you sign up you go to the campaign tab and find blogs you want to "drop your card". It does drive traffic to your blog.

Contact your local media
Your local media wants to know about you! Call your local newspapers and news station and see if they are interested in doing a human interest story on you. This will help draw in local buyers.

Leave your business cards
Always carry business cards on you because you never know when you'll need them. Ask if you can leave a stack at your local craft shop. Also when you, your friends or family go on vacation leave business cards. When my parents went on a cruise they left my business cards in Seattle and Alaska.

Advertise
Some times you have to spend money to make money. Advertising is one of these times. You should of course exhaust all the free advertising you can get first, find free ads on blogs and other online forums. Once you have exhausted those make sure you research your options before you spend money.

Submit to Craft Magazines
Find magazines that are targeted at your craft and submit your work to them. Some times you have to submit more than once.

Join a Street Team on Etsy
Joining a street team on Etsy will help you get exposure but more than that it will help you find support and more ideas on promoting.

Submit to online search engines
This can be time consuming but in the end it really can pay off. There are thousands of search engines besides the big ones everyone knows. Search for online directories then submit submit submit!

Promote Others
You should take time to promote others in treasuries, your own blog and to friends and family.

These are just a couple of ways to promote yourself out side the box. If you have any other suggestions please let me know! As always happy crafting!

I have a bead addiction

2008-08-13T10:08:00.001-07:00

Everyone who knows me knows that I'm on a self imposed three month no bead buying hiatus. I've managed the first month quite well thanks to my fellow Jets, Jeweledblossoms and Thevintagejewlerybox, who have both sent me some really great beads. I also have a pile of items that have beads on them that I have been meaning to take apart. This past month I took a part a purse covered in wood beads to get my fix. You can see what I created with combination of the beads the Thevingagejewelrybox and the purse beads in my Etsy shop. What lead me to this self imposed hiatus you ask? A month ago I bought this fabulous wood case from Hobby Lobby to put my beads in so I could see what I had better. I thought for sure when I bought it that I would have room left over for future buys. I was very wrong. I filled up almost the whole case with just my Delicas, Toho and cubes. It was while I was transferring my beads into their new little cases that I realized that I didn't even know I had half the beads I do! I accept my bead addiction and know some day I shall have to seek help. Below are the photos of my about an 1/8 of my stash. I still have to go through my wood, metal, other glass besides seeds, resin and beads I use for hemp. I'm glad my husband has no idea how much money I've spent lol. I should mention that I also have a touch of OCD when it comes to organizing my beads as you can tell by the photos.
I feel better now that I have accepted my addiction lol. If you have a huge stash you'd like to share let me know I 'd love to show your addiction. As always happy crafting!

I've been a bad blogger of late

2008-08-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

I've been such a bad blogger lately! With the holiday season upon us I've been a busy little beader. Here are some of the bracelets that have kept me away from my blog.
Cherry Kisses
Flower Garden

Dirty Ice
Jolly Rancher

These are just a couple of the new pieces you can find in my shop. I've also started the long processes of expanding my creativity. I recently joined a great knitting group but found I still can't knit to save my life. The great ladies of my group are letting me stay in the group and be the beading knitter. Next week they are going to try to teach me how to crochet. Let's hope that doesn't go over like a lead balloon. I've also started to make Scrabble and bamboo pendants. I know that market is really over saturated right now but I hope that mine are funky enough to make their own mark. While I've been on blog hiatus one of my best friends had a little girl, Jazzlyn. She is quite the cutie and I'm not just saying that because I'm her aunt. She had about an inch of dark hair!
I hope to be back blogging more regularly in the weeks to come. Look for my Etsy Find of the Week, Etsy Artist of the Week and Thinking Outside the Box Fridays. If you have any suggestions for these let me know!! As always happy crafting!

My Find of the Week 7/23/08

2008-07-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

I see great things on Etsy all the time! I've decided to do a Etsy find of the week. My first find is this adorable Fat Monkey from Sweetestpeas' shop. Fat Monkey is 5.5" tall and carries a waist line of 14.5".
Fat Monkey swings from the trees right into your heart. He loves bananas, of course! But, since he's sneaky, he might try to get into everything in the kitchen.
Things to know:
♥Fat Monkey is made to order. Please allow Sweetestpea 7-10 days to complete this little guy for you.
♥You can choose the color of your monkey! How great is that? All you have to do is convo Sweetestpea.
♥Fat monkey is best for children over 3. If you would like a Fat Monkey for a child under 3 adjustments can be made just let Sweetestpea know and she will embroider the eyes, make an unbendable tail and not include a beanbag.
♥If you prefer another animal check out her shop!
I'm always looking for great Etsy items to feature! If you're interested let me know! As always happy crafting.

Etsy Feature ☼Manamoon☼

2008-07-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

I meet this week's feature artist on Flickr. Manamoon is perhaps one of the most talented wire jewelry makers I've ever seen. Manamoon is a husband, Damein, and wife, Sharon, team that works 7 days a week to create their beautiful pieces. They started their Etsy shop on January 13 of this year and have already had 14 sales!! You can find their jewelry on their personal website. Damein does all of their Chain Maille pieces while Sharon concentrates on the other jewelry aspects of their fabulous shop. You only have to spend a few seconds in their shop to understand how talented they are. It's like a jewelry candy store!! One of my favorite things about Manamoon is that they use focal beads from other very talented Etsy Artist in their pieces. Every time I think I can pick a favorite piece they come up with a new one that is fabulous. Here are a few of my favorites:

This geourgous piece is called Royal Vineyard.

This bracelet is called Seeds of Life.

I'm always looking for great artist to feature. If you're interested please let me know! As always happy crafting!

Some new dandies

2008-07-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a busy one for me. I managed to complete five bracelets. I just couldn't help it I got a huge order of beads in. I some how managed to get them all done, start a sixth and go see my dad's band play. It's been a long week but it was worth it. I've only listed one of my new babies looking for a home, so you'll have to wait until later in the week to see the other four. :)

This is Deep Blue Shimmer. I hand wove this bracelet in a Peyote Stitch using 11/0 Japanese Triangles. The shimmer in this bracelet is fabulous. I'm always looking for great Etsy Artists and pieces to feature. If this describes you let me know!! As always Happy Crafting!

Thinking Outside the Box Fridays

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

It's no secrete that Etsy is hard work and some times it can feel like you're working your tail off with no results. Sometimes you have to think outside the box to achieve what you want. Here are my top 10 ways to be more successful on Etsy. I can't say that if you do all these things you will be the top seller on Etsy.

1. If what you are doing isn't working try something else.
When ever I start feeling like things aren't working I try a new technique. I make jewelry but if you make soaps for instance try a new scent, make salts etc. If you aren't selling well a couple new items will freshen up your shop and also make you excited to do something new.

2. Treat your shop like a business.
I think a lot of people look at there shop as a hobby and it maybe a hobby but your buyer doesn't know that. You want to put your best face forward. That means don't complain in forums all the time.

3. Promote
You need to promote yourself because in reality no one is going to do that for you. I'll be giving promotion tips in my next Thinking Outside the Box.

4. Blog
I know that blogging can seem like one more thing that you have to do on your list. Make sure that if you blog it's because you want to and not just because it's on a list somewhere and everyone is doing it. Read other people's blogs! Surf around blogs are great place to network and learn.

5. Join a street team
I love my street teams, especially my Jets. Find a street team that you fit into well. Street teams will help you promote, offer great friendships and most of all give you tons of support.

6. Don't depend on Etsy as your main income
You're probably saying what is she talking about? Well I'm saying don't put all your eggs in one basket. Is Etsy the most popular handmade selling website? Yes it is but the more you're out there the more you're noticed. There are a lot of other websites like Lov.li, Craigslist, DaWanda etc.

7. Give Back
Help others along the way. If someone is in the forums and ask a question that may have been asked a thousand times DO NOT jump on them. Instead help them. Yeah they could have done a search but chances are they may not know how. Remember you were new once too. Also I know that I personally make a note of people who are nasty in forums and don't buy from them. I figure if that's how they treat their co-workers than how will they treat me. Give back also through promoting others!

8. Observe the Golden Rule
If you send someone a convo or leave them feedback you'd like the same in return right? Well don't forget that others do too. Try to return convos in 48 hours because if a person has to wait longer they will move on and buy from someone else. There goes your sale. Feedback is really important to a lot of Etsy sellers. We want to know did you like my product? Was my customer service good?

9. Photos and Tags
Use all your photo slots and tags if you can. When doing your photos make sure they are clear and the background doesn't take away from your item. Also make sure you do one macro photo so people can really see your stitching, colors etc. Tagging is so important on Etsy! When you have tags to fill don't forget colors, textures, materials and how would you search for your item if you were going to buy it?

10. ALWAYS HAVE FUN!!
I think the most important tip is to always have fun. Once you craft becomes a pain staking job that isn't fun your craft will reflect that. You should see this as a job but who wants to work at a job that is awful? No one! You are your boss so don't hate yourself.

Stay tuned for more Thinking Outside the Box. If you have any tips to add leave a comment! I'm always looking for great pieces and Etsy Artists to feature. If you think that's you let me know! As always happy crafting!

Etsy Feature ♥Bbesigns♥

2008-07-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

I belong to one of the greatest street teams on Etsy, the Jets. As a group we are doing a cross promotion with Etsy Greeting Street Team. I'm very excited to feature my partner, Bbesigns.

Twenty five years ago she received her BFA in design from Kansas City Art Institute. Just two months later she was blessed with the birth of her first son. She made that tough decision to put her career on the back burner to raise her three sons. Now that her sons have grown into men she is ready to get back to her love of design. Through out the years she has dappled in jewelry, interior design and lots of boy scout crafts. She i
s now concentrating on her new love paper crafts. She creates one of a kind cards. Each card is hand made by her so each one is different from the next. On June 6th of 2007 she joined our great community of Etsy. Since that time she has enjoyed 11 sales. She enjoys doing large orders so if you have an upcoming event, birthday or just want a pick me up card visit her shop. An added bonus right now if you buy three single cards you will receive one card free!!
One of my favorite card sets in her Birthday Cards with Quotes Set of 4.
♥I'm always looking for great people to feature. If you think you're that person please contact me via a conversation on Etsy! As always Happy Crafting!

Outside My Comfort Zone

2008-07-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

As an artist myself I always respect others work but I must say I always thought stringing beads was easy. In some cases I still find that stringing can be easy. My parent's friend wanted me to make her an anklet. I told my parents you know what that just isn't my thing. After a little nudging I decided to give it a whirl again. Below are my two creations.
Starry Love Nights

Amber Canyon

Let me know what you think! As always Happy Crafting!

My Baby Started Daycare and I Survied

2008-07-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my baby, okay he's almost two, started daycare. This is something that I've struggled with myself and with my husband. My husband has been trying to get Anthony in daycare for some time now. I've always stayed home with him and it just plain hurt my heart to think that someone else would care for my baby. Naturally I was also paranoid that he'd be hit, learn to swear or hate it. I think that's the first time mom in me. Lately I've gotten to the point in my jewelry business that I just need more time to work without little bead loving fingers touching everything. So yesterday was the big day. I got up bathed Anthony, got him breakfast and took a shower. I was doing great and felt we had made a good decision. I toured the daycare center and met the staff; both were great. I was fine while we got in the car and for half of the 7 minute drive. At the last stop sign before I had to drop him off I just started to loose it. I managed to pull myself together to sign him in. I took him to his Snoopey room to drop him off. All the kids were having so much fun playing ring around the rosie. I thought to myself keep it together lady. Then Anthony started to bawl and scream Mama no Mama no!! Next thing you know we're clingy together both of us bawling like we'd never see each other again. It was so hard to hand him over and have to leave while he was screaming Mama. I left the room only to be greeted by the older kids getting ready to go to swimming lessons. They actually pointed at me and asked what was wrong with me. Which of course only made me cry worse because I was so embarrassed. Then I had to go to Hobby Lobby to get a clasp to finish up a bracelet. I managed to get a lot done yesterday after I got through my break down. I spent 10 minutes on the phone with my mom telling her how awful of a person I was for abandoning my son when he was scared. I'm lucky to have a great friend who recently had to take her daughter to daycare too and a great street team in the Jets to get me through. My husband called from work to check on him and he was just fine. When I went to pick him up he was napping and still alive. I guess we both made it through one of the toughest days.

This is one of the pieces I did yesterday. I started Honey while on vacation last week. I finished her up yesterday. When the sun hits this bracelet it shimmers so nice.
Sandy Waves is another bracelet I completed yesterday. Sandy Waves is a mixture of two of my most popular bracelets, Oil Spill and Copper Elegance, both of which have found new homes. This bracelet is really a great mix of Sand and Waves just like a day at the beach.

Though I was very productive in starting another project, completing two bracelets and almost finishing a third, yesterday was still rough. I know over time Anthony and I will both adjust.

Birthday Bash Entire Store Sale July 9th 2008

2008-07-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

Come help me celebrate my birthday!!

Front Page

2008-07-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited that I managed to get on the front page again. Thanks to my fellow Jet, JealousyDesign, and her fabulous treasury, Between the Moon and the Mind.

New this Week

2008-07-03T05:51:00.000-07:00

This week was a good listing week for me. I hope you enjoy these new pieces! Let me know what you think.♥
Funky Wood is a mix of different vintage red, oranges, brown and tan wood beads. The different shapes and colors blend together to create this funky piece inspired by the 70's. Funky Wood was strung using two lengths of Fireline to ensure it's durability and finished off with a magnetic silver clasp. It measures 21" in length. You can purchase this bracelet in my Etsy Store.

Cobblestone reminds me of a small town in Nebraska. The up town area has this beautiful cobblestone brick sidewalks. I used 11/0 Delica Triangles in the colors of copper and a deep brick red in a Peyote Stitch. I used a hand woven beaded Peyote tube as a finishing clasp. Cobblestone is 6 1/2" x 1 3/4". The thickness of this beautiful bracelet makes a real statement. You can purchase this bracelet from my Etsy Shop.
When I was a child my grandma had this wicker furniture that was so beautiful. Follow the Wicker Road reminds me of that furniture if it had crossed the yellow brick road. This bracelet is made out of 11/0 Glass Triangles that look and feel like wood. I used my Stain Glass design to create Follow the Wicker Road Bracelet. The bracelet is very light weight and will drape your wrist delicately. Follow the Wicker Road Bracelet features a hand woven Peyote Stitch tube clasp. This bracelet measures 7 1/4" x 1 1/4". You can purchase this bracelet in my Etsy Shop.

This week I also completed my first custom piece.
Do you have new pieces this week? Let me know. I'm always looking for new people to feature in my blog. If your interested let me know ! Happy Crafting♥

Truley Blessed

2008-06-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

I was starting to question if I was going to be able to really make a go of my Etsy business. I enjoy weaving a lot and find it so relaxing so I would keep doing it. I was becoming discouraged because I just wasn't making sales. Then all the sudden this last week I've made 4 sales. I feel truly blessed every time I get a heart, am featured in a treasury and make a sale. It's so gratifying. I'm really looking forward to my first show next month. I just really wanted to say thank you to everyone who has shown me love and appreciation for my craft. (((hugs)))

Front Page

2008-06-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am so excited much like a school girl. Today I was on the front page of Etsy!!! For those of you who don't know what that means it's the ultimate honor. I would like to thank Sandfibers for not only telling me but for taking a screen shot, and posting a blog on the Etsy Beadweavers Street Team blog. Please visit her store to see all of her inspiring jewelry!!!My 70's Wacky Wood bracelet is the center photo in the second to last row.

Yart Sale

2008-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

I'm participating in the First Annual Yart Sale on Etsy. A Yart Sale is a lot like a yard sale. If you purchase from my Etsy Shop between June 11-20 you will receive 20% off!! How fun! Check out Etsy for other Yart Sellers!

The things you take for granted.

2008-06-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Today I blog with a heavy heart. I live in Mason City, Iowa and we have had the worst flood hit us since 1993. The devastation and destruction here in heart breaking.
It all started Saturday afternoon. My husband, son, brother and I ran out to Target to get stuff for supper when the tornado warnings went off. The Target staff wanted everyone to go into their coolers but from working at Kum and Go I know that it's not as safe as they would want everyone to think. So we took off running for the car and headed to my parents' house 12 miles away in the next town over. We watched the storm roll in and before long the news was announcing that a tornado touched down at the airport which is less than 2 miles away from my parents' house. We were very lucky that it lost it's momentum. We made it back home safety before the down poor started. Sunday we woke up to a day of rain. We have a park here, East Park, that in down in the center of hills so you have to drive down in. This park has a normally beautiful river that runs through it called the Winnebago River. East Park flooding is really no surprise to us locals because it happens almost every summer. This year we broke a record from 1933 for the worst flood. At it's highest crest the river was 18.74 feet. The devastation the rivers, lakes and streams flooding has caused here really makes you want to sit down and just cry. All of our restaurants are on mandatory shut down until further notice, we haven't had water here since Sunday and the amount of homes damaged or destroyed is mind blowing. We don't have water because our water plant flooded. Ironic huh? Once we knew the water was going to be shut off I ran to Target to get water. There were hordes of people doing the same thing making the isle look like a tornado had hit it. I did manage to get some water but I didn't take in to consideration that we would need water to flush the toilet, cook and brush our teeth. So yesterday we had to go out of state to get water.
My parents' house had 2.5 feet of water in the basement after the sewer backed up. The worst part is that they are on vacation and have no idea what they will come home to. Their brand new washer, water heater, furnace, tons of clothes, keepsakes and dryer are probably a loss. My best friend's lower level apartment flooded ruining all of her living room items. Not to mention all the local people who have lost their homes. We are supposed to receive more rain today, tomorrow and Thursday.
It is in times like this that I realize just how much I take for granted. I encourage you all to really take a minute today to realized how truly blessed we all are. When you drink the water out of the faucet take the time to appreciate that it's there. Our town has lost a lot of it's historical homes and our ability to feel safe in our homes. The pictures below show some of the flooding damage. If you have the ability to help please contact The Red Cross. We have a lot of people in North Iowa that have no clothes, no home and every little bit really does help!! If you aren't able to donate please donate your prayers for all of us.

Carnival Flapper

2008-05-30T15:56:00.000-07:00

Well the summer is upon us well kind of here. Some days it's 40 degrees other days it's 80 frickin fickle Iowa weather! Anyways I designed this bracelet as an omag to summer carnivals with a dash of flappers from the 20's. This fine little dandy is available in my Etsy Shop.

In other news it has been awhile since I've featured a fellow Etsian. Shame on me! I've been so busy lately that I just haven't had the time. I shall be featuring a great Etsian next week so be sure to check back!

Two New Pieces

2008-05-28T06:47:00.001-07:00

I just listed two new pieces last night.

I'm really loving the combination of blue and brown right now. Blue and brown set the mood in this sky inspired chunky bracelet! The white swirls represent the clouds in the blue sky. Strong on elastic this bracelet will fit most wrists. You can find this bracelet in my Etsy shop.

My second freshly listed item is my Ring Tailed Lemur bracelet. I had some left over beads from another project so I thought what the hay.

My husband said that this bracelet reminded him of a Ring Tailed Lemur because of the beaded beads. Each beaded bead is hand woven using fireline and galvanized tangerine, galvanized hot pink and galvanized light teal delica beads. I used elastic to couple the beaded beads with silver spacers. You can find this bracelet in my Etsy Shop.

I've been neglecting my blog

2008-05-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend all! I've been neglecting my blog because I've been so busy! I've had a really great last two weeks! I was featured in a couple really well put together treasuries. I was also featured on Talent Database's Craft Portal. My biggest accomplishment this week was having Fire Mountain Gems add me to their Notable Artist page. I also completed two and half bracelets; one for my mom's birthday which was made out of size 15/0 emerald Toho beads. I also finally finish my Mardi Gras bracelet which has left me with a sad feeling. I made my Mardi Gras bracelet out of size 11/0 Galvanized Tangerine, Galvanized Hot Pink and Galvanized Light Teal Delicas. I was so excited about this bracelet from the planning to the first bead strung to the final bead.
I just finished Mardi Gras bracelet yesterday. This is the bracelet that I made my mom for her birthday.
Fire Mountain Gem featured me and my Stain Glass Cuff.

Talent Database's Craft Portal Featured my Coal Shimmer Bracelet
Treasury 5-11-08 featured my Roman Elegance Bracelet

Treasury 5-15-08 featured my Spring Love Cuff Treasury 5-22-08 featured my Oil Spill Cuff.
I'd love to hear what you think of my new piece!

Treasury Feature

2008-05-12T06:14:00.001-07:00

I was very excited to wake up to a treasury feature today! Check out the treasury at http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=44039 to see all the other very talented Jet Team Members who were also featured!

Coming Soon

2008-05-06T05:50:00.000-07:00

Monkey Announcement:
Coming soon I will be starting a couple of series on my blog. The first series will be my challenge series. In this challenge it's all about taking my fellow Etsians out of their element. The second series will be about Going Green. Stay tuned for more!

Etsy Child

2008-04-20T06:41:00.000-07:00

As a mom to a toddler I think one of the best categories at Etsy is the items available for children. If you search children on Etsy you will find 134685 items! Those 134685 items include everything from hats, toys, clothes, books, plushies and many more. What a great place to find a perfect birthday present! Each item is hand made with love!
I have chose some of the find Etsy sellers who dedicate their shops to little people to feature this week.
Lookmamamadeit joined the Etsy community on February 29th of this year. Her shop features felt food items for children. She is inspired by her 5 year old. Silvia has been thinking about making children's toys since she was a child! She has her Masters in Art History.
While browsing Silvia's shop I saw this lovely Cake and Ice-Cream Summer Party. The set comes with a strawberry and chocolate cake (2.2"diameter x 1.8"tall), two cookies with pink liners, a strawberry ice-cream cone (3.9"long), a chocolate ice-cream cone (3.9"long), and a lemon lollipop. Each item is made out of rich wool blend felt except for the ice cream cones which are made out of thicker acrylic felt. You can find this
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10862611
for $32.00. Silvia also offers fruit, vegetables, and other assorted goodies.

Crackersart is another great Etsy seller who joined the community on August 8th of 2007. Sarah used to be a graphic designer but found it didn't give her enough of a creative outlet. In 1998 Sarah started Crackersart to achieve the creative outlet she desired. Her two little boys are her inspiration for her great digital illustrations.
Quackers the Duck is a great example of her digital illustrations. He is printed on smooth acid free 100% cotton rag fine art paper using archival inks. This print is 8" x 10" with a white boarder making it easy to frame. Each print is signed and date on the back. You can find this print at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11030504 for $18.00.

If you are looking for a great wall mural then look no further than Loribiebel's shop. She joined the Etsy community on November 11th of 2007. She started doing children's murals in 1991. She realized that making murals that could be move able and not permanent was the way to go. This would be a great way to decorate your little one's room without having to paint over it as they grow!
My favorite mural from her shop is Farm by Storytime Walls. It comes with a barn (21 1/2"x16 1/2"), cow (16"x15"), horse
(17"x14"), pigs(15 1/2"x9"), lambs(16"x11"), tree(9"x14 1/2"), and clouds (17"x11") You can find this great mural at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7974725
$138.00. Loribiebel's shop also offers a circus mural, bug mural and individual pieces.

Whimbrella joined the Etsy community on August 12th 2007. She learned
to sew from watching her mother as a little girl. She still enjoys sewing with her mother. One of my favorite items from her shop are her Ready to Go Coloring Totes. Each tote comes with 8 standard crayons and a coloring book! What a great way to help your children pass the time in a car or at a doctor's appointment. The tote measures 6"x6" and is machine washable. You can find this tote at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8664477 for $12.50.

Etsy is a great place to find the perfect gift for any little one in your life!

Check out all these great Etsy shops at
http://lookmamamadeit.etsy.com
http://crackersart.etsy.com
http://loribiebel.etsy.com
http://whimbrella.etsy.com

Featured Seller- Barflybling

2008-04-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a great pair of earrings then stop in at Barflybling. The first thing you will notice is her great banner featuring a pin up lady drinking a martini that sets the tone for her shop. Barflybling got her BFA in drawing and painting and has 20 years experience creating jewelry. You can see how materials inspire her when you look at her exquisite jewelry. She likes to work with sterling silver wire, gemstones and lampwork beads.
Barflybling enjoys taking apart vintage items to make them into contemporary pieces. She has done this beautifully with these Silver Seed Pods. The beads are vintage silver Lucite beads that hang from a handmade round sterling silver ear wires. These earrings are one of a kind! You can get them at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7480173
for $12.00.

Blue Tornado is a great example of Barflybling's use of lampwork beads. Made of 18mm blue twisted glass with purple swirls accented with glass blue beads make these earrings stunning! The earrings measure 1 3/4" long. You can find these beautiful earrings at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5843511 for $9.00!

Barflybling isn't limited to just earrings! Silver Swirl Necklace is a stunning necklace featuring a Silver tone swirl charm on a 18" sterling silver chain. You can find this gorgeous necklace at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8891815 for $12.00. You can get the making earrings for $12.00.

These are just a few examples of the fine jewelry Barflybling makes. Check out her other items at http://barflybling.etsy.com

Etsy Friends

2008-04-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

Etsy has a community like no other! There are so many people who are willing to selflessly help others that it never fails to amaze me.
I thought I would feature some of these fine ladies who took the time to blog about me.

I love this print from Arabbitgirl's shop. It is a great example of Asian art! Arabbitgirl's is from one of my favorite places in the states Boston. She has been making collages for twenty years. A great example is Wind. Wind is a 7"x7" digital collage reproduction print. Arabbitgirl's prints each of her prints on Epson Professional Enhanced matte paper. You can find this print at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10848537 for $20.00! While you're there check out her other works of art!

Odannysgirl has a patten pending on this Lace Certified Organic Cotton Dining Out Travel Bib Set. This is an item that I wish I had when my son was a baby. How great is this not only does it fold up for traveling convenience but it's also organic and comes with a great wood spoon! You can find this great bib set at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10943618 for $44.95. It won't be long before this is the gift to give to new moms and dads.

Beautifully Brown

2008-04-07T06:17:00.000-07:00

Beautifully Brown? you might say. How can brown be beautiful? Usually when you ask people their favorite color you will very rarely hear brown. I'm am on of those rare people who find brown beautiful. All you have to do is take a wander around Etsy to find some really great examples of why brown is beautiful.
This first piece is a fine example of why brown is beautiful. Jessica Doyle is the artist behind this piece in titled Spring 8x8 Fine Print Art. There are three other prints in this series representing all the seasons. This fine print was created using Faber Castell Pitt artist pens, Micron Pens, Windsor and Newton watercolor on Arches cold press watercolor paper. Each print is titled and signed on the back. You can find this great piece at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10758899 for $18.00.While you're there check out Jessica's other prints!

Early Budding Vine Bracelet from Giftbearer's Budding Vine (TM) Line is one of most original pieces of brown I found on Etsy. The process of making this wonderful bracelet takes two weeks! Giftbearer uses fine silver slip layered onto a real vine then burned out. A bronezey-gunmetal color is then added to give the bracelet texture before the stones are set. This bracelet will fit a 5" wrist. You can find this excellent bracelet at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10838889 for $600.00. While you're there check out Giftbearer's Budding Vine Line!

Homelab is responsible for this next piece, Beige and Brown Collar with Wood Buttons. I saw it awhile back and thought it was off a runway. This collar can be worn as a wrap, a scarf or a half turtle neck. You can find this great piece at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9662105 for $45.00 While you are there check out Homelab's other pieces!

Dawn Lewis created this ACEO, Heritage Gee Gee, Limited Edition Photo Card. The story behind this card is what fascinated me the most. The little girl butterfly is actually Dawn's mum as a little girl. She photoed the photo to create this card. What was more fascinating was that the cards are printed on playing cards. You can choose which ever card you want! It is the first out of twenty four in her Fairy Series. You can find this card at
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10702089 for $4.00. Check out Dawn's other ACEO while you're visiting her shop.

The final piece in my beautiful browns is this hoodie by Binarywinter. I found that Binarywinter's description was way better than my description would ever be.
In Victorian times, a woman's treasured charm was most often a cameo carved with her own likeness. A portrait of great artistry would typically be carved on shell or stone, and framed by a floral motif that reflected the Victorians' love of gardening.
Adorned with graceful gears and delicate blossoms, our Cameo Mecanique is a modern take on a timeless charm. The cameo is nestled on the back of the hoodie, with two sets of elegant gears on both sides of the hood. Silk-screened by hand using creamy bronze ink onto a brown American Apparel women's fleece zip hoodie. 100% cotton, lusciously soft and cozy, perfect for spring nights!
You can find this hoodie at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10755250 for $45.00. When you visit Binarywinter's shop you will find a list of sizes so you can pick the best fit for you or a friend!

Perhaps brown isn't the prettiest or most popular color in spectrum but I challenge anyone to say that brown can't be beautiful! These pieces from great artist show case my point exactly.

Etsy Shops:
http://jessicadoyle.etsy.com
http://dawnlewisimagery.etsy.com
http://giftbearer.etsy.com
http://homelab.etsy.com
http://binarywinter.etsy.com

Featured Seller- Andy's Rascals

2008-04-03T09:14:00.001-07:00

When you enter Andy's Rascals shop (http://andysrascals.etsy.com) you know that you have found a little treasury trove. I discovered Andy's shop a couple of weeks ago and fell in love with her little figurines. Andy started her passion after realizing that her kids were not represented anywhere so her and a friend took a ceramics class. That one class got her hooked and Andy started making her great figurines. Her first sales came from a local gift shop where she received five dollars for each figurine. If I had ran across them at the gift shop I would have bought everyone! Andy spent the next eleven years doing the Victorian Country Christmas craft show before landing at Etsy on January 26 of this year. In the few months she has been at Etsy she has enjoyed twenty sales!!

Each of Andy's figurines has a personality all it's own. This little Donkey is pouting just like your little one does! He is $14.95 like most of her single figurines. You can find him at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_
9675489.

How cute is this little booger?
This little guys is also $14.95 and well worth the conversations he'll start at your next dinner party! Every time I see him I have to smile. You can find him at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing.

This two some is quit the pair! I think the frog just found out that he isn't a prince! This fun pair is $34.95. You can find it at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9558931

I hope you have enjoyed learning about Andy's Rascals! Please take the time to see all the other great pieces she has in her shop!!!!

New Pieces

2008-04-03T06:36:00.000-07:00

These two peices were listed last week. I just couldn’t figure out how to get pictures in my blog. Thanks to Bendawndavis (http://bendawndavis.etsy.com) I finally figured it out! Please visit her shop she has beautiful things!

Okay here are a couple of my new pieces:

Stain Glass Cuff

Stain Glass Cuff is a combination of 11/0 Toho Beads and 11/0 Mill Hill beads. This is my first design and I’m very excited to see what else I’ll make from it!

My other new piece is Wacky Wood.

Wacky Wood is just a great natural braclet that compliments every outfit. This is the first bracelet that I’ve made that I have attachment to lol.

Let me know what you think!

What's been going on

2008-03-27T06:01:00.000-07:00

Recently Macnider Art Museum asked me if I would be interested in selling some of my jewelry in their gift shop. This is a great honor for me and I dug in right away to make pieces for the shop. In June I will be in their art festival. I have a great deal of work a head of me.
I have completed some new pieces too.
I call this one Coal Shimmer. It was hand woven out of 3mm black cube beads and black Nymo. It is on sale at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10520741

When I started to create the bracelet to the right it reminded me of my mother in law, Wendy. It is my take on RAW. I loved this bracelet so much that I did one in blue too. You can find this bracelet on sale at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10520171

2008-02-23T19:12:00.000-08:00

http://monkeybun.etsy.com