The Dragon's Breath

Nothing special....

2012-02-13T01:15:00.000-08:00

This is just a short post to let you know that I'm not having a new special in my shop this week.
The current 15% off shop-wide deal is good through Monday night (any order placed before 2am Pacific will receive the discount).

The main reason I'm not hosting a special this week is because I'm actually quite busy this week, working on samples for The Little Black Box. I'm also hoping to have a special announcement by the end of the week. AND I'm working on my bindrunes, coming up with a list and creating the bindrunes myself. Currently, my list includes Love, Protection, Health/Healing, Success, Wealth, Safe Travel, Peace/Happiness/Harmony (might be one, might be broken into separate ones, I'm not sure yet).... Are there any others you'd like to see offered? Please let me know.

And on that note, I need to step back from the computer and get some sleep, so that Monday can be productive around here. Keep your eyes peeled - you never know what you will find around here....

Project: Bindrunes

2012-02-11T17:02:00.000-08:00

Looks like I'm developing a new line of items to include for sale in my shop. Here's a little bit of information on runes and bindrunes, and the process of creating this new product especially for you.

A introduction to Runes and Bindrunes

a set of the 24 Elder Futhark runes
created by Sunfire

The runes are a set of magical symbols that represent forces in nature. They were used by the Norse peoples for a very long time simply as magical symbols. As trading increased and connections were made with other countries, the runes were adapted to serve as an alphabet for writing purposes.

Runic symbols can be found all around us, in architecture as well as nature. For personal magical uses, they are often carved or painted on stone or wood. Drawing the rune while focusing on its power helps to manifest that energy. A set of runes can be used for divination, similar to using a set of Tarot cards.

Bindrunes are a combination of multiple runes into one magical and powerful symbol. Opinions differ on how exactly to combine the runes, but in the end, the power and intention behind them can be the same.

My Bindrune experiment

A couple weeks ago, the thought of making a bindrune hung from appropriately-colored hemp came to mind. You may have seen my "test sample" in this blog post. I didn't realize how awesome this would become.

Energy bindrune
for Beth

I showed off my new ideas to the folks in the Zibbet chatroom, and Beth (of Chickamoo) asked if I could make a couple for her. After showing her the list of bindrunes I was using as a starting point, she picked out 4 that she wanted. 2 charms with a bindrune on each side. And I got to work.

Started flipping through my books and notes on runes and colors and intentions, and found a color appropriate for each bindrune. I used the ones that seemed to make the most sense for the intended purpose, and each charm now features 2 colors of hemp braided together, reinforcing the combination of the 2 bindrunes onto one charm.

Afterwards, I began looking over the list of bindrunes I started from, and began picking it apart. I wanted to actually see the runes used to make the image, and I wanted to really understand how and why those specific runes were chosen. As I was looking over it, I started to think that perhaps I should be making my own instead of just copying someone else's design.... That was certainly a smack in the face, and a reminder that I really need to learn these runes a bit better. (Yes, I have studied runes in the past, but not for very long, and it's been over 5 years since I've used them.)

The Future for my Bindrunes

Protection bindrune
for Beth

The more I think about it, the more I realize that these bindrunes will be more powerful and more appreciated by the recipients when the crafter of them understands what they are doing and why. Basically, I need to make them the way I feel most comfortable. For those that know about runes, I will NOT be rotating or flipping any runes to create my designs - appearance is not as important as the power behind the symbols. (Often, flipped or rotated runes are seen as having an opposite or otherwise altered effect.)

So, the next step in my bindrune process is to come up with a list of basic bindrunes, almost "generic" if you will, that I'd like to have available to my customers. But other than the list linked to above, I'm not sure what sorts of 'generic' bindrunes would be desired. If you have any suggestions on which ones I should/should not include, please let me know.

Once I have my list complete, then I will make each one (on paper with pencil until I am happy with the design, then burnt onto a disc) so I can photograph them. With all the images done, I can compile them into an easy chart that customers can see in a listing and pick the one(s) they'd like to have. There will also be an option for a truly customized bindrune, in which I will talk with you to find out exactly what you are aiming for, so that I can combine the best runes for your intentions.

I've already decided on pricing for these. $7.95 each, plus shipping. Can be single- or double-sided, or customized, no extra charge.

So, what do you think? All opinions, comments, suggestions and questions are welcomed and appreciated!

Zibbet Exhibit - Valentines

2012-02-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

It might be cutting it close to be showcasing Valentines only a few days before the actual day... sorry. There were just so many great dragons, that I had to save these for the last minute! Who knows, some of these people might be able to ship directly to your Valentine - can't hurt to ask, right? Have fun oogling the creative Valentine's gifts from Zibbet, anyway!

Ukelele Valentine Card by The Artful Badger	Paper Hearts (craft supply) by All About The Buttons	Sun Catcher ♥Valentine♥ by Dancing Rainbows
Pink Hearts Valentine's magnet by Fantasy Clay	Come Home Soon ACEO Valentine by Wild Goose Chase	Solid Chocolate Hugs and Kisses Lollipops by Red Rose Confections
Valentine's His & Hers Gift set by Beazer's Garden	Holiday Spirit Cord "Love" by Walk in the Woods	For My valentine by Paperville

Share, comment, you know the drill - if you like it, tell people about it!

1000 Facebook fans!

2012-02-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

I thought it was a big deal when I hit 500 fans, or even 800 fans.... but I've reached a huge milestone this week - 1000 Facebook fans! And, as promised, I'm celebrating all day Wednesday.

Be sure to stop by the Facebook page when you get a chance today - I'm bringing the music and the games, you bring your drink of choice and the happiness :)

Special of the Week

2012-02-06T13:19:00.000-08:00

OOAK Eternal Love heart

Well, here it is, a week before Valentine's day, and I haven't offered up any specials for you guys - shame on me. How am I supposed to entice you to pick up a unique, one-of-a-kind gift for your loved one if I don't offer a sale?

To remedy that, I'm making a quick post today to tell you about my last-minute Valentine's deal. Now through 2/13, everything in the shop is 15% off - no coupon needed, discount is already applied. Does not including shipping price. This DOES include any custom orders paid for before the end of the sale.

And for a little added BONUS ~ Mention that the item you ordered is a gift for your Valentine, and I will include a free gift in your package at no extra charge!

Hurry and cash in on this deal before it's gone, and treat your loved ones to a truly unique and special gift this holiday!

Zibbet Exhibit - Dragons, part 2

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Remember when I told you I found lots of great dragons on Zibbet? Well, here's more to go with the others.
Enjoy!

OOAK Lavender-Pearl dragon by WelcomeToMyWhimsy	Dragon pinback button by Portable Grafitti	Men's Leather Dragon cuff by JujuBee Jewelry Designs
Gunmetal black necklace with Dragon by Tam's Crafts and Collectibles	Snap Dragon 5x7 by Sarah Schism	Dragon window cling by Specialized Window Art
Black, red and grey Dragon-print pleated wristlet by A Stone's Throw	Double Dragons bright green tshirt by North Eastern Woodland Designs (2)	Sangre de Grado (Dragon's Blood) glycerin soap by Sakura Bath & Body

New things, in the works

2012-02-01T16:48:00.000-08:00

Some of you may know that I'm not always burning wood. Lately I've been working on a couple crochet projects (slippers for my mom and stepdad) that took longer than they probably should have, but they are done now, so I can get back to woodburning projects.

There's nothing like placing an order for wood pieces to get me in the mood to make more stuff. I've had some ideas in the back of my mind, and in my notebook, for a while now, and today I finally gave them a shot.

test samples

First, I needed a new charm to hang from my cell phone, as my original had broken quite some time ago. This new one features my dragon logo on one side, and my name (Sunfire) on the reverse. I hung it on my phone already, without spraying a sealant on it, because I want to test how this wood holds up without anything on it. Also, I didn't want to mix up my phone with my other half's phone (we have the same kind) any more.

Next in the picture is a diamond-shaped charm featuring a kanji design (this one is Peace). I have been working with round wood when it comes to charms, and I've been wanting to try something diamond or rectangular. I kinda like how this one came out - I just have to come up with a better something to hang it from... Also, it isn't sealed, and I'm sure this wood will look very nice with a sealant on it.

bindrune test

Then we have the bindrune charm. I'm really excited about this one! Seeing as I'm looking to do more pagan items for my shop, this seemed the basic first step, as I have already worked with runes before. The one pictured here that I created today is a combination of Gebo and Wunjo, for a loving/giving/safe/balanced relationship. And I've braided red and white hemp to it for love/sexual and trust energies, then hung it on a keyring for a finished look. I did not seal this yet, partly because I was just testing how the hemp would work, but also because I was considering finding something a bit less 'processed' to use as a sealant, something more 'natural' to go with the magical nature of the item. That's where I need your input - what do you suggest I use? Hmmm... as I was looking at the picture, I've already had one idea to change - make the bindrune with heavier lines, thicker and darker, bolder. Yes, that will certainly help.


sample magnet test

Last in the picture is a sample of a magnet I plan to 'mass-produce' in the coming month or so. I'm making them to be distributed in the Sample Z Box as well as The Little Black Boxes. I was considering sending them in for Pagan Packs fillers, but I may have a different idea (which I did not get a picture of). I might be revisiting the idea of bookthongs (you can read about that project here), with some improvements on the design and production of them. If so, I will certainly let you all know, with more pictures, of course.

So there you have my progress on projects so far. Trying to keep the good pace I had in January as 2012 moves forward.

Zibbet Exhibit - Year of the Dragon

2012-01-27T02:32:00.000-08:00

As we welcome in the Year of the Dragon, I had to do a search for my name's sake on Zibbet and see what I could find for cool dragon stuff.... Well, I found so many lovelies that I had to break it up into 2 separate Exhibits! Today I present to you part 1 - enjoy the amazing variety of dragons found on Zibbet.

Dragons on Zibbet

part 1

Curling Gold Dragon in flight handpainted bookmark by Enchanted Craft	Chinese Dragon earrings by Ajewelgift	Dragon's Blood Hand-Dipped Incense by Delightful Scents
Water Dragon, print of original watercolor by Lovely Things	Ceramic Dragon Amulet by Silly Kitty	Green Dragon by AllChainedUpandNoWhereToGo
Dragon YinYang Tattoo-inspired Tshirts by InkWear	Dragon hat, baby cap by mizdarlin's hats	Dragon shelf by Hueby's Wood Creations

Price adjustments, and other updates

2012-01-24T23:05:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be nice to blog about something other than what I've got on sale, or another Zibbet Exhibit... So here's some things that have been going on behind the scenes at Breath of the Dragon...

First, I need to announce that shipping rates in my shop have been adjusted, because the USPS raised prices as of Sunday (1/22). I am still offering free shipping worldwide for any keychain or small charm - this has not changed (and will not, as long as the price stays low). Other small items will be shipped for $2.15 (where it was once $1.75) in the US. Most of my large flat pieces will still ship for $6 in the US, but boxes and other larger items now cost $12 to ship in the US. Thanks to a handy printout sheet I picked up from my friendly postal clerk, I adjusted some International shipping prices as well. Wow, they are certainly a hindrance to global business, aren't they? But please don't let that stop you. If I can find a way to make the shipping cheaper, I will certainly do my best and refund any difference you may have paid to me. I promise.

Hogwarts plaque,
burned and painted with watercolors
by Breath of the Dragon

As I had mentioned in previous posts, this has been a good start to the year, as the custom orders kinda came at me all at once. It's certainly a wonderful feeling, that's for sure. Well, the 2 pentacle altar tiles are in their new homes, but the custom boxes are still sitting here waiting for full payment. Then there's the trade I did. You see, Kay of A Crafty Arab, was looking for a one-of-a-kind handmade gift for her daughter who is turning 10 soon. She asked in the trading group on Zibbet, and I mentioned that I can do a custom piece for her. After some discussion, we got things for the trade settled - a Hogwarts plaque for 100 custom pinback buttons. Since I got some advertising materials out of the deal, I'd say it was a pretty fair trade. And, just to clarify, I don't usually do images/designs that are obviously (or even remotely possibly) copyrighted, for sale at least. I have this huge paranoia of being busted for copyright infringement, and I've become very careful of what I create with whose designs. Since this was a trade and no money was exchanged, I did not infringe on any copyrights for commercial gain.

buttons for Zibbet, BotD, and TPA
created by A Crafty Arab

Aside from that, not too much has been going on around here... Plans are still in the works for samples, as I'd like to be more active in Pagan Packs, Sample Z Box, and finally get into The Little Black Boxes. Key chains were a bit too expensive to keep doing, and the full-sized magnets were also not fair to myself to be giving away. Smaller items that I can burn quickly and don't cost so much to produce will certainly be better - now I just need to get the supplies so that I can get started on my mass-production project...

Between burning custom pieces and being chatty online, I took a break and started crocheting a couple things. After I did felted wool hats for the family (the one for Ian was a test, then I made one for myself, and then mom and Tim wanted their own) for Christmas, mom bought the yarn she wanted for slippers. So I'm working on those now. And after I'm done with those, I am gonna be making a new pair of slippers for myself (since the first pair was kind of a test/learning process, and now I feel I can do them better), as well as a pair of hand warmers (or fingerless gloves) that I've wanted to have since it started to get cold out. In the back of my mind, I also have an idea brewing for a crocheted hemp 'fanny pack' thing, but I have to find the right kind/size of hemp to do it with...

I think that's about it for now. Better finish this up so I can get those slipper finished...

Special of the Week: Year of the Dragon

2012-01-23T00:53:00.000-08:00

So, the Chinese New Year is upon us, and for those keeping track, we are welcoming the Water Dragon this year.

green hemp dragon necklace
by Breath of the Dragon

I wish I had more dragon pieces already made - I would put them all on sale for this.... but alas, the only dragon piece I have completed and listed is this dragon necklace....

*ponders*

I tell ya what - First person to honestly want the item (as in, they can pay immediately) that speaks up [contact me] can have it for 25% off, and free shipping! You just have to speak up before 1/28.

Keep an eye on my Facebook and G+ pages for updates on this as the week progresses......

Zibbet Exhibit - SWEET DREAMS

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

Winter's finally hit, and when it's cold and snowy outside, I want to just stay in my warm bed and keep on dreamin' sweet dreams.... Stay inside where it's warm, but still get your window shopping in... Enjoy, comment, share!

Sweet Dreams Wall Decal by dabbledown	Tooth Fairy felt pillow by A Crafty Arab	Dream glass tile pendant by Izzy's Place
Dream Pillow by RWest Designs	Black leather Hibernating sleep mask by BreitWerk	Handpainted Other World Egg - California Dreaming by Enchanted Craft
Old man reading in bed Vintage Photo and Frame by Vintage Raige	Dream a Little Dream earrings by Xquisitely Lady M	Sweet Dreams wooden sign by Mama's Insanity

Special of the Week - Celtic artwork

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:00


Celtic Tree of Life wall plate by Breath of the Dragon

Over the last couple months, I really haven't done a Special of the Week in my shop.... mostly because I figured if my shoppers were going to buy this time of year, they'll buy what they want when they want it. But the holidays are over, and I have to kick those deals back into gear if I want to keep business moving smoothly.

Iron Cross magnet
by Breath of the Dragon

Fairly simple one this time around - now through 1/21, all items in the Celtic section are 20% off! That includes my gorgeous Tree of Life plate, as well as the recently relisted Celtic Recipe box. Quite a few things in there - so go look around.

AND, if you don't see what you want, any custom order that includes Celtic knotwork will also get 20% off! But only though Saturday, 1/21. Act now!

Zibbet Exhibit - COZY

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Even if there's no snow out there, it's still winter, which means you probably want to stay inside where it's warm and cozy, eh? Well, check out these cool Zibbet items to keep you and your stuff nice and cozy!

Knit Afghan in Winter White by The Needle House	Owl Cup Cozie by KnitsYoursKnotMine	eBook Cosy Cover Valentine Swirl by nunofelt
Stethoscope cover handknit with flowers by Handmade Fuzzy	Hankknit Meerkat Golf Club Cozy by Nifty Knits	Shaded Keyhole Scarf by AllAboutTheButtons
Soothing Warmer - Sunflowers by Lucky Clover Crafts	Denim Blue Stick Shift Cozy by Raige Creations	Tea Wallet Cozy in Blue Batik by Creations620

Great start so far...

2012-01-10T02:21:00.000-08:00

2012 is certainly turning out to be a good year! Other than yesterday (a deliciously wonderful Lazy Sunday), I feel like I've been going pretty much non-stop, but making great progress. It started the day before New Year's Eve, actually....

Commissioned Altar Pentacle

First, a custom order came in. I had made an account on Real Pagan a few months ago, but didn't do much with it.... just posted some images of my work and explained what I do. On Dec 30, someone left a comment on my wall there, saying that they'd like to commission me for a specific piece. Being that I live at my computer, right away I added her as a friend and sent a message to start discussion of what she would like to get. By the time I went to work (at Safeway) on New Year's Eve, I knew what I was making for her. And on 3 Jan, I was able to start burning. Finished and posted it this past Friday.

Next, also on the day before New Year's Eve, I had another custom order come in. My friend Roger had bought 2 custom boxes from me earlier, one for each of his kids for Christmas. The one for the boy featured my popular Tribal Greenman design on the lid with his name on the front, and for his daughter, he asked me to burn the Flame Rose design on the lid with her name on the front (I was so distracted that I forgot to take pictures of the finished boxes). Well, the day before New Year's Eve, Roger messaged me saying that he needed 2 more boxes like this, with different names. As of today, those boxes are waiting for the finishing touches and a few coats of sealant, then I can photo them and send them on their way to their new home(s).

The day I posted the above pentacle in my Zibbet shop, and added the photo to my FB page's album, I got another request, from a local person who wanted one for herself as well. I responded to her with a quoted price, but have yet to hear back. But I have faith that if she really wants it, she will get my message and contact me when she is ready.

Make Tea Not War tea storage box

So, with orders already coming in, I knew I was off to a good start. Then Sunday night I get an email from Judy, the lady who writes the Fantastic Five on Zibbet, notifying me that one of my items was featured in this week's blog. So once it was posted and live, of course I had to go check it out, read and comment, then share everywhere (FB, Google+, etc). It's very exciting to me to be featured, especially since I often feel like I'm not doing much that is attention-worthy with my business... Getting that email made my day, and week, for sure! You can see this week's Fantastic Five: Warm Up with a 'Cuppa Tea' here, and spot my Make Tea Not War storage box. If you're a Zibbeter, feel free to leave a comment. If you like what you see, please share it with your friends and family as well. Let the power of social networking work wonders!

Well, after I spent some time with that post, I found out that my mom (Nicole of Nicole's Visions) was the Featured Zibbeter this week! How super exciting! It's always neat to see someone you know getting the attention they deserve.

I think that about sums things up so far. Busy and exciting start to 2012, and I love it!

Oh, before I forget, I wanted to offer up a special deal to you folks - spend $10 or more in my shop, and use coupon code 5OFF10 to get $5 off your order. That means you can get one of my smaller plaques for about half price! Act (aka SHOP) now, I'm not sure when I'll take this deal away....

Zibbet Exhibit #2: WINTER

2012-01-06T02:41:00.001-08:00

Winter Sleep Original painting by JoJayson	Winter White Scarf by KraftyLady	Winter Forest head wreath by Lasting Creations by Jan
Trees of Winter Handmade Holiday gift tags by A Penny for Your Thoughts	Winter's Icy Edge by Dragonfire Photography	Snowman Winter Vase by Pizzaz Glaz
Winter White Roses w/ Antique Brass by Tootles Boutique	Winter Patchwork Bag by Millions of Stitches	Primitive Sign - Warm Winter Wishes by Scaredy Cat Primitives

2011 in Review

2012-01-05T14:46:00.000-08:00

I was surfing around other Zibbeter blogs and saw something I kinda liked.... Enchanted Craft did a year in review, where she highlighted events by month. A short, simple and clean way to sum up an entire year in 12 bullet points.... So here's my 2011 in Review:

January - Etsy shop officially closed; Grand Opening of Zibbet shop, the exclusive place to buy Breath of the Dragon original wood burnings. I began adding my dragon logo to all items I burned, as part of my signature. I was also hard at work making keychains as samples for Pagan Packs and Sample ZBox.
February - Very little creating, no selling, but I was working on my networking and blogging more; Crafty Business series of interviews starts.
March - Started to learn crochet; getting ready for the first craft show of the year.
April - Craft show at the Wenatchee Valley Senior Center; seriously contemplated shutting down my Turn Peace Around stuff...
May - Got outside more, between helping at the food bank regularly, gardening at the Community garden, and bike riding. Mass produced samples (keychains and magnets). Sales also began to pick up online.
June - Lots of samples leave my house and head for redistribution. Alphabetical shout-outs on my Facebook page. End of Crafty Business series on the blog.
July - Finally had enough sales in my Zibbet shop to afford a year of Premium at $69 - so I upgraded! I also took this opportunity to review my shop and give it more focus and direction.
August - Integrated Turn Peace Around into the main Zibbet shop (rather than letting it stand alone); started my Getting Out There series on the blog. Restarted the Special of the Week, as well.
September - More crochet; Lots of canning at home (both garden food and stuff from the food bank).
October - Decided, after many months of helping at the food bank, that I would rather recognize October as hunger Awareness Month, and 10% of all sales will be donated as food to my local food bank.
November - Another craft show at the Wenatchee Valley Senior Center - less work to do this time around. Some more crochet. Drop in views at the online shop, but increase in local sales. Spent Thanksgiving in Walla Walla, WA with family, and sold 5 TPA bags.
December - Second winter craft show, at Wenatchee High School (thankfully they had room for us, even 2 weeks before the show). Business slowed down after that., but I used that time to think about my business, and where I want it to go. Getting a little more organized now.

And there you have it, a quick recap of Breath of the Dragon in 2011. Can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us!

Charity report 2011

2012-01-02T12:32:00.001-08:00

Remember when I told you about my charitable giving plan? (If not, see the page here) Well, I'm happy to report that my first donation was a success.

Between October and December 2011, I earned enough (and received a generous additional $5 donation) to purchase $40 worth of food for the food bank. While I tossed ideas around in my head for the best way to get the most food for that money (i.e. only buying Safeway brand since I get the discount), my other half was kind enough to remind me of something. I've been there handing out food, I've heard from the people that go through the line, I've seen the food they hand out.... I should focus on getting food that we don't normally see there. And we should make it something that everyone can use.

See, some people that come through the line don't have a way to cook, and a lot of them don't even have a way to open cans. So something with a pop-tab lid that can be eaten cold would be good.

Even though I could have gotten more food for that $40, I instead put it towards Beanee Weenees - 27 little cans, to be exact. The kid at the register when I bought these thought I had some party going on, or that they were on a good sale or something. But when I explained that this is a donation from my business, I got the approving nod and "ah, okay".

All that's left now is to carry the heavy bag up a couple blocks and drop it off at the Women's Resource Center. I'm sure they will be grateful.

As a means of accountability, I put up a record on my Charity page of the amount of money used and the food it purchased, that I donate each quarter. Keep an eye on it for future updates.

Zibbet Exhibit #1

2011-12-31T01:14:00.000-08:00

Due to the lack of snow in my neck of the woods this winter, the Theme for my first-ever Zibbet Exhibit is SNOW....

Christmas Snowflake Sugar Cookies by RedRoseConfections	My Teddy and Me glass tile pendant by IzzysPlace	Winter Night Church gift tin by EnchantedCraft
Snow Trees solid oak coaster/tile by NicolesVisions	100 Custom Holiday Product Tags by PortableGraffitiGraphics	Snowflake Pendant by SueStitches
Snowflake Gift Card/Luggage/Business Card Tag by BreitWerk	2 Collectible Snow Babies by TexasEagle	Snow on the Grass earrings by XquisitelyLadyM

Special of the Week

2011-12-27T12:13:00.000-08:00

It's the end of the year - time to squeeze out those last-minute sales before we start calculating taxes....

So I'm offering 25% off everything in my shop, with coupon code YEBO11 - Good only thru 1 Jan 2012.

You know you want some.... and I bet you got a gift card for Christmas that would work as payment... So go look around the shop and scope out your favorite item(s)!

Record-keeping refresher

2011-12-12T01:41:00.001-08:00

I just spent an entire day polishing up my record-keeping, and I'm not done yet. But I am very proud of the progress I have made thus far.

Before, I simply kept track of what I had available for purchase by looking through my items physically and comparing it to what I have in my images. Now, I have a spreadsheet (OMG, look out - she's gettin' computer savvy!) listing every item available, if it has a quantity greater than 1, gave each item a number (based on the year it was made) and started recording some numbers... I know, so much fun, right? But, as a business owner, it needs to be done.

So what numbers was I crunching? First, I was trying to figure out if my current pricing method was working for me. If *I* am my business, is there really a difference between paying myself and claiming a profit? For me, not really. But I did go through and figure out a profit, as best as I could, for the pieces I have records on. Building my materials costs list was half the day, but it's good to have it done now, in an easy-to-read list, complete with where I got it from, and what the sale (vs regular) price was. As I find more suppliers and better prices, I'll add them in, too.

After deciding that Retail (the price I am selling the item for) - Cost (of materials) = Profit, I realized that the cost of labor isn't always going to be the same for every item I make, so I shouldn't worry so much about how much my crafting is paying me "per hour". But now that I do know the profit of an item, I can easily figure out the per hour rate I'll earn off each item. Thankfully, I have a paying part-time job to pay the bills, so I can focus on enjoying what I do instead of making as much money as I can doing something I don't really enjoy.

I'm hoping this is a good start to the new year - I will be making a stronger effort to accurately record not only the cost of materials, but also the amount of time I spend on a project. Another new change is coming to my record-keeping, but I haven't started that part just yet. My pen-and-paper ledger for the business.... oh boy.... I was running it similar to a checkbook, but I never had a current running total, so how would I have ever known if my business had actually turned a profit? Well, that's changing with the new year, too. I'll start with an entry for my current balance, aka the money in Paypal (which serves as my business account). Then, with each transaction I make in the name of my business, I will write it in and keep the running total current. I'm looking forward to seeing if my business is in the red or the black, after all these years of changing what I do before settling on pyrography and other crafts.

The Dark of Winter

2011-12-08T01:37:00.000-08:00

A time of reflection and contemplation. What have I done so far? Where am I now? Where do I want to go from here?

And therein lies my problem(s). I am really bad about not knowing what I really want. Not to mention I am terrible at fully committing to something, because it is easy for me to see the other side or something better. Oh yea, and I can be lazy at times, too.

Ian and I started discussing it a bit yesterday, and he told me that if I want this to be a business, first thing I need to do is calculate all the costs for everything I do. Like, how much does it cost in materials to make a keychain? And how much does it cost me in overhead to run an online shop the way that I am? What about my time - how much does that cost? And all this talk of cost just makes my head swim. I'm not sure I'm cut out for a full-blown business rather than a hobby that brings in money.

The thought that seems to be nagging at the back of my mind is whether or not I should change what I do, to something that will bring in more money more often. Don't get me wrong, I love doing my woodburning, and I especially love it when I get custom orders. But one or 2 custom items a month is almost not worth it. I see other people with a crafting business, and they sell multiple items a week, sometimes more than one thing a day! What is it they are selling that sells so well? Why doesn't my stuff sell that way? Oh yea, because my items are neither functional nor consumable. Not to mention they are not some super unique idea that solves a problem and serves a need that lots of people have....

The big question I have to answer is this: Do I want to simply make something that will make a profit? Or do I want to make money doing something I love? If I go with the first one, I will most likely have to change what I do.... but if I go with the second one, I will first have to figure out exactly what it is I want to do... Perhaps I will be able to come up with something that can meld these two extremes together.... The ideas are coming, but not going very far just yet...

First step, no matter what direction I take, is to start with the books. I was running my ledger similar to a checkbook, but I didn't keep a running total. Nor did I keep track of the cost of the items I still have in stock. So I need to do some number crunching and math, and set up the books in a new format that will easily show me how my business is doing at any given point.

The Gifting Season

2011-12-05T12:47:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again, and gift-giving is rampant. With everyone shopping at the big box stores, what's something that us small-business crafters can do to add some extra value to our work? Offer gift wrapping! It will certainly save the givers some time, especially if you are shipping their items cross country or even across the ponds!

I've decided that I will also do this - so any items ordered between now and Dec 16 will have free gift-wrapping added. If the items you purchase are NOT going to be gifts, just let me know.

My gift wrapping is a simple shiny green paper with snowflakes, and a nice red ribbon. No names are added - that's up to you. But since I have the paper and ribbon just sitting around, it seemed to make sense to offer this nice little touch during the holiday shopping season.

In other gifting news, I hope to make a donation of food to the food bank of my local Women's Resource Center. I plan to make a purchase of food with profits from items I have sold, both online and in person, and donate it to the Center in the name of Breath of the Dragon. This is just the beginning of what I hope to make a permanent addition to my business - giving 10% of my sales to my local food bank. More details on this will be coming in the new year.

Craft Shows can be addicting....

2011-11-13T22:49:00.001-08:00

Sunfire, with Breath of the Dragon on display

We did our Holiday Craft show at the biggest annual event in town... and while I didn't sell as much (or make as much money) as the last show I did back in April, both Ian (UberDreamer Concepts) and my mom (Nicole's Visions) did much better than last time.

LOTS more traffic than before, with people who were out scouting holiday gifts, money in hand. I had plenty of people looking and touching my work, and thus I had plenty of people to talk to about it. It felt really good to know that people actually appreciate my work, and to know it simply by the looks on their faces and the whispers they make to the people they are with. That's something that can be hard to come by in the online selling world (you can't always see the "word of mouth" making it's rounds).

TPA 'conversation starter' plaque

I also had the chance, more than once, to explain Turn Peace Around to people. See, I have this round plaque that I set up in the back of my display that has the symbol and the words on it. It's in the back, so that it isn't blaring or pushy. One gal asked how much it was, and when I told her it wasn't for sale, I had to explain why - it's my 'conversation starter' for the subject. I gave her a small business card and a postcard with the information about the reason for flipping the peace sign. These cards also have the link for the FB page (linked above), which they can visit for more information. I also told her that I do have hand-painted tote bags and some jewelry with the flipped peace sign for sale on Zibbet. The other lady that I spoke with about it, noticed the card in our display rack on the front (has all 3 business cards along with TPA cards), and she seemed rather interested when I explained to her about what it is. And THAT is how the word will spread - through people whose minds are open to the idea and willing to ask questions. I can't be pushy with this message, or it won't work. The ones that want to change it are the ones that will, and that's what matters to me.

Nicole, with Nicole's Visions on display

As for the title of this post, it's true. The energy that runs through you, the excitement and anticipation that builds as the day gets closer, the rush of joy you feel when someone picks up an item and says "I'll take it!" before they hand you the money.... It's all very addicting, like some kind of drug. It must be that instant gratification of receiving money in exchange for something you created.... and I think customers appreciate both seeing the person behind the craft as well as instantly receiving the item after paying for it.


Ian, with UberDreamer Concepts soap

The biggest high (which I'm still waiting for, but can tell it isn't too far away), is to have a fellow vendor at the show scouting out your stuff at the beginning of the day, then coming back later to buy something they spotted that they just had to have. Supporting your local craftsman is probably the biggest compliment, I think.

Usually you have to be registered and paid for any holiday shows way before now, but sometimes shows have empty spots. That's what we are hoping for - the Wenatchee High School does a big show the first weekend of December, and if there is room, we'd like to get in there as well. We'll try to prepare better for next year and have everything set up beforehand... but I really don't want to wait that long to do another show (*whiny voice*)... we'll see what happens, and of course, I'll let you know (watch Facebook!).

Special of the Week 11/7

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

I have a craft show this coming weekend, and I would love to get the groove moving in my direction by selling something online right before..... How do you like to prep for craft shows?

Anyhow, I have a ton of boxes already made, all of which make great gifts. Like this little Celtic treasure chest - perfect size to store your precious rocks, small incense cones, ticket stubs from the movies, or whatever small thing(s) you treasure.

This week's deal is as follows - purchase any box in my shop, and get a second item for 50% off! So, if you decide to pick up one of the coaster sets, you could get a small charm (to use as a wine charm) to go with it, for only $3.49

Only boxes that are already completed can be included in this offer, however your second item can be a custom item, and I will only charge you half of what I'd normally charge for that item.

If purchasing 2 ready-to-ship items, the discount will be refunded a.s.a.p. via PayPal.

Custom box orders are always welcomed, even if they are not on special. In fact, I've already made a listing for a custom recipe box (these were big sellers the past couple years). You can get a name, a specific design that matches your kitchen or the recipe cards you already have, or simply request modifications to designs I've already done before.

What are you waiting for? Visit the shop and check out the variety of boxes I have that would make great gifts for the people on your list this year!

It's not all about wood....

2011-11-05T16:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just need to do some crocheting...

It's gotten colder, and I need a hat on my head when I walk home from work. So I pulled out what I had last year, and the hat I really liked wearing has a big hole in the top - Oh no! Since I'm not much of a fixer, and I don't really have the money to support handmade and buy a new one, I decided I needed to just make one - it can't be that hard, can it?

Spent about 3 hours total doing some skimming through my favorite site for patterns, CrochetPatternCentral. There's always lots of cool patterns in there, and I knew I'd find something fairly simple in the design I was hoping for.... and I came across this very versatile pattern by The Bohemian Mermaid.

3 days later, of on-and-off hook work, and I'm done. I'm loving how it fits, too! The pattern was really easy to follow, all the adjustments she offered helped, and I even got creative by adding 3 rows of the rainbow yarn I had.

Now that I'm done with this hat, I have some more crocheting to do, too. We have a craft show coming up in a week, and Ian wants to have more soap sacks to sell with his soap. I picked up another skein of the same organic cotton, and will be making as many more as I can get out of it (5 of 6, if I remember). These take about 35 min each, so I should have them done in a couple days. Pictured here is one of the originals.

Special of the Week 10/31

2011-11-02T00:17:00.000-07:00

I've been slacking a little bit lately with my ~Special of the Week~ deals, and I apologize. I was starting to feel as if the specials weren't generating interest. But now that Halloween is over and Christmas is right around the corner, I have to get motivated and be diligent about it.

So, each week between now and Christmas, I'll have some kind of special in my shop, as my way thanking you for supporting a small-business crafter this holiday season. Amazing deals, like BOGO and Free Shipping, really make it more fun to pick out a truly unique gift for those on your list.

Since this week is halfway over already, I'll have to make it a really good sale, eh? How about..................

35% off any of my bigger pieces - boxes, wall plaques, hanging signs, coaster sets, picture frames.... Lots of great gift ideas! If you order any of these items before 11/5, you'll receive the discount price. No coupon code necessary - sale prices are already in effect!

Certain pieces are one-of-a-kind and cannot be reproduced, so grab them before they are gone. If it is NOT labeled as OOAK, then I can make a custom version of the item you see. It make take up to a week to complete the custom piece, but as long as the request is placed and the discussion started before Saturday night, you will get the discounted price when your item is finished and listed.

Go ahead, tell your friends! The more, the merrier! Visit the shop to browse through all the boxes, hanging signs, wall plaques and other larger types of items that are for sale.

Remember, order by 11/5 to get 35% off!

End of October...

2011-10-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Well, my fundraising for Hunger Awareness for the Women's Resource Center here in town has been pretty much non-existent. I haven't sold a single thing since that announcement. I hope it wasn't a deterrent for sales... Then again, maybe I just didn't advertise it enough (that's most likely the case).

So I've decided that from now on, 10% off all sales from my shop, no matter how small, will be donated to the Center at the end of the year. This will be an ongoing charity thing. I will have to update all of my listings to reflect this, and ensure to include something in the shop profile about it, but I don't mind. Seems like one month is not enough for a super-small business to raise awareness or money for anything, so I'm going to make it a permanent part of my business plan. In fact, I've added a PayPal donation button to the side of my shop, just in case someone wants to donate but doesn't really want to shop. I will be adding that button to the blog as well.

In other late-October news, I got some ornaments made and listed, finally. And when I was showing them off on Facebook, I got a request for some custom ones, so I've been working on them. I was kinda worried, honestly, because these custom ones are smaller versions of larger pieces I made. I wasn't sure how tough it would be to shrink down the designs, but I think they turned out okay. I was hoping to have them listed and ready to purchase on the 1st, which is what the customer asked for, but due to work and Halloween, it may be a day or 2 after that... They've already been burned - I just need to add the hole, sealant and ribbons. I do hope you love them, Milly!

One last thing for today - Now through the end of the month, I've marked all Support Ribbon items in my shop 50% off - that gives you 2+ days to pick up some unique and handmade Pink Ribbon gifts. There's magnets, key chains, cell charms and ornaments currently available. Custom orders not included in this sale. If you'd like to see other colors for support ribbons, let me know. Also, if you think I should make bigger pieces with these ribbons, send your ideas my way. I love expanding.

I won an award!

2011-10-22T02:13:00.000-07:00

Well, this blog did, anyhow. *sheepish grin* Who woulda thought I rambled enough to win something for it?

Rebecca, owner of Raige Creations and Vintage Raige, creator of the Toekini, actually found my blog interesting enough to call me a "Liebster" (that's German for "Favorite"). I'm so honored!

The thing about this blog award is that its aim is to spotlight up-and-coming bloggers with less than 200 followers (I definitely fit that bill!). I suppose it's a good way to get us more attention, eh?

Upon recieving this Liebster Award, there are a few rules:

1. Copy and paste the award on your blog. DONE
2. Thank the giver and link back to the blogger who gave it to you. DONE
3. Reveal your top 5 picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog. Ooh, that's the hard part... but I have to try - it's only fair.
4. Have faith that your followers will spread the love to other bloggers.

So, without further adieu, here's my picks for favorite blogs (of the moment):

~ Naturally Me is my mom's blog covering her journey to a more natural way of life. So far, it's about food, but there are other things that come up, too, and you can usually find something helpful in there, no matter what it is you are trying to change to be more natural.

~ The Sellers Nook was created to feature Zibbet artists. I know they had a few lined up at the start, but I'm not sure how often they update lately. Keep an eye out - you never know what you'll see... And if you look back through the blog, you'll see a feature on me!

~ Peace Now is a blog that can be personal at times, but carried with it a solid message. Sometimes it helps us deal with our own struggles when we can see that others are dealing with something similar, which is what we have here - a young man, dealing with life, seeking to create Peace all around him.

~ Edge of the Wildwood has a little bit of everything, from crafting information, to nature photography, to useful tips on a variety of subjects. You never know what you'll see next time she posts....

~ A Crafty Arab is better known as Kay from Zibbet. She's amazing in all she has done for Arabs in America. I know very little about that culture, but I am inspired by everything Kay does to promote a positive image for Arabs. I love seeing the little projects she comes up with for her kids, too.

One last blog I'd like to share (but she's got WAY more than 200 followers so she can't get the award) is Jamie Ridler Studios. I see nothing but positivity and inspiration oozing from every post that comes through my feed. Some days, that's what keeps me moving forward...

~Special of the Week~ 10/17

2011-10-17T14:14:00.000-07:00

Well, now that October is halfway over, I thought I should offer a sale price on all of my Pink Ribbon items (of which I still have quite a few, and can easily reproduce).

So, this week only (thru 10/22), all support ribbon items in my shop are 25% off! Makes a great gift for nurses who work specifically with women, for survivors of the battle, or even family members of someone who lost the fight. In fact, most items listed can be personalized, no extra charge! Just ask, and allow a little extra time for completion.

I currently have a set of keychain and cell charm that would be a great stocking stuffer combo... along with a few magnets and an ornament.

Since this deal applies to all items that are "support ribbon" based, I can make an item in your choice of color, if you have a different cause you want to show support for. Also, I can make custom ornaments with the name/year(s) of your choice with an appropriately colored ribbon. Last year, I made a set of 8 for a lady who gave them as gifts to the families that were affected by a serious loss.

So, have a look around and let me know how I can help you remember someone. Shop today and get 25% off!

~Getting Out There~ Part 6: Project Wonderful

2011-10-12T19:13:00.000-07:00

This post has taken me a while to get started.... First I put it off so I could explore the site some more before writing about it... Then I put it off because I just didn't want to write. But I'm starting to feel guilty for telling you guys I'm gonna write and then not do it.

So, since I have the night off from the paying job, and I feel invigorated simply by cleaning up my little corner of the apartment, I'm going to go ahead and write this post for you guys, because you deserve it.

Project Wonderful - What is it?
Some of you may have heard of it before, while others are totally new to the concept. I admit, I was skeptical from the first time I heard about Project Wonderful (free ad space? srsly? no way!), and I put off exploring it for quite some time. But as I began this series of new ways to get exposure online, I came across the site again, and decided why not give it a try. If it's free, what can it hurt?

one of many ways to search for a place to put your ads

There are 2 parts to Project Wonderful - the advertisers and the publishers. You can be both, as I've discovered, and it's not that hard to do either. Advertisers create ads, then bid on ad space. That's right, you set the limit of how much you will pay to advertise on a given site. You get to choose what site to advertise on, too, so you aren't stuck with your ad on a site that is totally irrelevant to your products/services. This way, you are getting closer to reaching your potential customers. The great thing is, some publishers don't have a minimum bid, so you could easily get free advertising, as long as you are the 'high bidder', or rather the only bidder. Bids are constantly updating, so if you aren't the high bidder, you don't pay for that time of advertising.

If you want to make a little money with your website, you can use Project Wonderful as a Publisher. These are the folks that set up ad space on their own site, and then let Advertisers bid on that space. If you have a high-ranking site with lots of daily visitors, advertisers will be more willing to pay money for ad space on your site.

As a test, I set up an account with both branches. Setting everything up is super easy, with simple language and easy guides along the way. Very friendly, too. Since the publishing part is easier, I'll cover that first.

You have to apply to be a publisher - there's a short form to fill out, where you include the URL of the page you want to put ad space on. It takes a few days for them to monitor your site and see if it's "worthy" (basically they are checking your traffic and content), but then they approve you. Once approved, you can easily get the code to place on your site - you get to choose the size of banners you will allow, and you can have up to 4 spaces on a given page. Place the code in your site, and that's it - the advertisers will be able to bid on your ad space as soon as you activate it.

sorted results matching my above search

If you are looking to get free advertising, all you need to do is create a banner(s) to advertise your site (you have a variety of sizes to pick from, all very common), then start bidding. Search through active publishers, check out the sites (visitor stats are included), and bid on sites that you would like to advertise on.

I only have one size ad to use right now, so I narrowed my search to sites that have that size available. As I looked through the list, I sorted it based on who has no minimum bid (as I want to get free advertising for now), then "Quickbid" on sites that had no current bid (to ensure I got immediate posting). As people bid on those same sites with a higher amount, I lost the "airtime", but not my place on the site. Once their bids expired, I became the "high bidder" again, until my bid expired.

As you can see, and I came to discover the more time I spent wandering through search results, the most common sites on Project Wonderful are gaming or web comics. Why? you ask - well, because those sorts of sites have constantly updated content, and people return to them on a daily basis.

One thing I noticed - there are quite a few sites that are no longer updating, so while the "price is right" (aka the current bid is $0), that may not be the best place for me to place an ad, as it is likely that no one will see it, let alone click it. So take your time to review the sites before aimlessly bidding on placement of your ad.

Something to keep in mind if you are a publisher - allow different sizes of banners. The more options you provide, the more likely you will have a variety of people bidding on space. As an advertiser, the more sizes of banners you have available to use, the more likely you are to be seen and to find ad space that fits your budget.

Another thing - bids are separated into 4 areas - US traffic, Canadian traffic, European traffic, and traffic from everywhere else. You could be the high bidder on Canadian or European traffic, but not the US traffic. If you ship internationally, this could be to your advantage. As a publisher, you can also set which traffic can be bid on for your site, and different price points for all of it.

I think that about covers it for an intro to the site. If you've used it before, feel free to chime in with your experience. If this is all really new to you, give it a try and let me know what you think. Of course, if you already have a lengthy "things to do to improve my business" list, add it to your list and bookmark this link, so you can come back and try it when you have more time/motivation/money/etc. I don't blame you, I really don't, for putting it off. Happens to all of us.

I can't promise another installment of this series any time soon, but keep an eye out - you never know what I'll find next :) If you liked this, please share it, too!

~Special of the Week~ 10/10

2011-10-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Now through Saturday, 10/15, all Zodiac items are 15% off!

Right now, I only have keychains premade with zodiac symbols on them. These wooden keychains are perfect for hanging on your car keys, since they weigh merely 0.2 ounces each! Each charm is burned by hand with the zodiac symbol on one side and the name of the symbol on the reverse, onto a wooden disc approx 1.5" across. Sealed with an acrylic sealant, these are easily cared for. The key chain is hung on approx 1" of heavy silver chain from a standard split keyring.

These little keychains would be great stocking stuffers as is, or if you ask nicely, I'll gladly customize it for you (a name, perhaps?).

Not really a keychain person? Or perhaps the person you are gifting isn't? How about a magnet or smaller charm (for, say, a cell phone)? I can do that - just send me a message with what you would like to see, and I'll get it made up for you a.s.a.p.!

As long as you request your custom items before 10/15, you will get the sale price, too!

AND, on top of it all, each item sold in my shop helps me feed my local community, by providing a donation to the Wenatchee Women's Resource Center. If you want to donate cash, rather than a portion of the items I have for sale, there's a PayPal Donate button located on my shop main page, on the right side. Any amount welcomed.

The ABCs of Sunfire

2011-10-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

I try to spare you guys the boring/lame/silly meme-style stuff in this blog, but I've seen a few other artists/small biz folks doing it, and decided it can't hurt to do just one.... So, for those that want to get to know me, here's the ABCs of Sunfire.

A. Age: 28 - I'll be 29 early December

B. Bed size: Queen - need room to share it, of course

C. Chore that you hate: dusting and vacuuming

D. Dogs: none - not enough room in this little apartment

E. Essential start to your day: Coffee, black with sugar

F. Favorite color: black, grey, blue, green, orange/fire....

G. Gold or Silver: silver, definitely

H. Height: 5ft 6in

I. Instruments you play: none anymore, but I played drums and bells in 5th grade

J. Job title: pyrographer, helper clerk @ Safeway

K. Kids: none

L. Live: at the foot of the Cascades on the Columbia River - aka Wenatchee, WA

M. Mother’s name: Nicole

N. Nicknames: Sunfire. All other names have disappeared from use at this age. Oh, does "honey" "sweetie" and "love" count?

O. Overnight hospital stays: none

P. Pet peeves: people that complain about something instead of trying to deal with it or fix it - aka fat people that continue to eat unhealthy or refuse to acknowledge information about the health of the food they eat....

Q. Quote from a movie: I don't know if I can pick just one. The one that's been floating around the house lately is "GAR-LIC chicken, yes!" from Stark Raving Mad.

R. Right or left handed: Right

S. Siblings: 1 younger sister

T. Time you wake up: between 10 and 11am

U. Underwear: what about them? LOL

V. Vegetable you hate: brussel sprouts

W. What makes you run late: the internet - I have a tendency to get caught up in something online, then realize "oh hey, I have to leave!"

X. X-Rays you’ve had: just dental, that I know of.

Y. Yummy food that you make: bread, from scratch... ya know, with yeast, kneading and rising, all that jazz. Either whole wheat or sourdough.

Z. Zoo animal: I've always had a thing for lions, don't know why...

October is...

2011-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

... a lot of things, apparently...especially in the United States. A lot of people and brands go Pink for October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness. There is also Domestic Violence Awareness, National Arts & Humanities, LGBT History, Infertility Awareness, recognizing American Pharmacists, and SIDS Awareness, among others (here's the Wiki page for October).

In previous years, I have set aside profits from sales in October to be donated for Breast Cancer Awareness.... However this year I'm doing something different. Over the past year, I've been helping at the Wenatchee Women's Resource Center for their weekly food bank. I see these people that come in for food, some on a regular basis, some only when they really need it. I think it's a real sign of the state of the economy when I see more and more 'regulars' at the weekly food bank.

According to Tanya who runs the food bank, October is also Hunger Awareness Month, at least in our area. Food donations are slim because the kids are back in school (i.e. parents don't have extra money to spend on food to be donated), and people are saving things (money and food alike) for the coming holiday season. Apparently this is the toughest time of year for food banks.

So this year, I will use 10% of all sales in October to buy food specifically to be donated to the Women's Resource Center. And for the remaining 11 months, 10% of all sales in my shop will be a financial donation to the Center, to cover any other needs they may have.

If you'd like to help me in this endeavor, all you have to do is make a purchase from my online shop. 10% of what you pay for the item(s) [not shipping] will be set aside as a donation. The more sales I make, the more I can donate to help those in need in my area.

I encourage you to find a cause important to you, and doing some of your own donating as well, in time/money/items/whatever. The best way to ensure a strong community is to help those around you that need it. Aside from the benefits they receive, it will make you feel good about yourself as well. Who knows, someday soon YOU might be the person in need, depending on the generosity of others... Only then can you truly understand what it means....

Pondering a tag line...

2011-09-30T01:56:00.000-07:00

So, a little back story, for those that are new and/or just don't know...

I have had Breath of the Dragon (the URL since 2003, the registered business since 2008) for a while... and I'm really trying to set in my mind that this pyrography is a business and not just a hobby. That means taking steps toward becoming a business.

I set up the URL to redirect to Zibbet as soon as I learned that I could. This way, anyone that had heard/remembered "Breath of the Dragon" could throw a ".com" on it and find my stuff.

Then we set out to make a logo for myself. The dragon you see now was one that I drew by hand, then we modified it on the computer to make it solid. Now it appears on anything I make, as a branding mark, next to my name and the year. It also appears anywhere I am trying to advertise my business (it makes a great avatar for networking sites). I still have work to do on the whole thing (like getting it cleaned up and made up in multiple sizes), but that has to wait until there is more money - Judy, I'm coming your way when I can.

Next I needed some sort of phrase to describe what I do. It came as an epiphany at work one day, and I am currently using "Specializing in Celtic, tribal and Kanji designs" because those define the styles I like to work in.

But I'm not sure it's what I want to stick with. Right now, my thing is this:
Breath of the Dragon, Pyrography by Sunfire ~ specializing in Celtic, tribal and Kanji designs
But if you have no idea what 'pyrography' is and I'm not there to answer your question immediately, it may or may not peak your interest enough to look around, or even go to my site (if you saw just my business card).

Then, as I was walking home from work one night, the thought "with a fiery touch" came to mind....
So I began pondering.... "Wooden Gifts, with a fiery touch"....

The next day I asked some fellow Zibbeters what they thought of this new tagline. Some immediately liked it as is, then someone suggested I focus on the "art" aspect of what I do.... "Wooden Art, with a fiery touch".... Then someone else chimed in saying that "designs" would help cover the art and the not-as-artistic gifty things...

I'm not sure I like the sound of "Wooden Art" because that makes me think that the person has created art by carving wood, or crafting wood into a specific shape/design/toy/etc. And as of now, all of my wood comes from the craft store (supplier) and I usually use 'as-is'.

So then today, the thought of putting the word "fiery" in the front came to mind.... something like "Fiery Wood Art and Gifts"... but I'm not sure I like that either....

Consider this my open call - asking for suggestions, input, comments, whatever. Please, help me iron this out! Thanks!

~Getting Out There~ Part 5: Galleries

2011-09-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

First off, forgive my delay in this posting... I got kinda sidetracked with who-knows-what, and never got around to deciding what the next post would be. But now that I've made some time, I'm working on some catch-up stuff....

So today, I wanted to talk a little about something I am totally unfamiliar with - exhibiting your artwork in a gallery, either digital or real life. Personally, I am having a hard time admitting that what I do is art, and not just a hobby. But I know that once I can see the items for what they really are, and not just what they are made of, I will finally see the value in my work, and I can begin to help others see that. Which is why I've never tried to get into any sort of gallery.

Now, you could always create an online gallery of your own, to simply showcase the work you've done. I helped my mom do that with her photography a few years back. We worked hard for quite some time (I coded the site, she told me what she wanted it to look like), and when it was done, it looked awesome! Black background to make the images stand out, unique layouts, with options to click for a larger view... I enjoyed working with the code, and she really appreciated the finished web site.

I know, I know, not everyone here has a handy web-tech in the family willing to work for you for free... But there are sites out there now that are designed for everyday people who want to upload and show off their talent. Aside from the obvious Facebook, there are sites like Flickr and Picasa. And, if you are sharing photos of items that are available for sale, you can always add a link directly to the item in your shop as part of the caption on your gallery site.

Electronic Cottage Gallery - Wood Artists

You probably knew about all those already, didn't you? That's okay, I was just covering the bases before I shared something new with you - a site I found called Electronic Cottage Gallery. From the sounds of it, this site is built on the ideals of a real-life gallery, complete with high standards and strict rules of judging one's work before it can be included in the gallery. (Again, this is why I've never tried) While it may seem daunting, or even useless, don't give up until you've read through all the rules - if you meet the criteria, it can't hurt to try getting in, right?

I was going to submit my works there, but there were a couple things that counted me out, like my unique web address re-directs to a different site instead of being a site I host and maintain on my own. Otherwise I'd be okay. If I could still afford to maintain my stand-alone site, I'd jump all over this.... but I can't really do that right now.

I'm sure some of you out there have your own website that could be submitted to this site, and I'd love to see you in there. Think of the people that would be cruising that site checking out the new art! They probably have more money than the people on Facebook that are simply following you until they have a few extra pennies to spend...

If you do submit your site, please let me know how the process goes for you. I'd love to get some insider info on this site....

Thanks for joining me this week. I hope to play around with Project Wonderful some before writing my next post in this series.... Any tips before I do? LOL

Special of the Week 9/19

2011-09-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

Celtic Tree of Life Plate

Well, it's that time of year again, when hours at the paying job (grocery store) are cut back for a while because the store 'isn't doing enough business'... And while I understand it, I still hate it. I was really enjoying working about 32 hours a week - that was just enough money to get by, without going crazy from working there too much.... But now I've been cut back to about 25 hours a week...

So, to encourage growth in my other source of income, I've put my whole shop on sale this week - 25% off anything you see listed! Keychains, magnets, boxes, plaques, Turn Peace Around items, custom pieces - you name it!

But hurry, this deal is only good through Saturday, 9/24. After that, everything goes back to full price.

Special of the Week 9/12

2011-09-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

Commissioned Altar Boxes

Since I love doing custom orders, I thought it would make sense to have various listings in my shop for the customizable items I can make. So far, you can pick from a customized small wooden charm, a customized keychain, or a customized memorial ribbon ornament. Today I just listed the customized recipe card box. But don't think that's the only custom items I can make - plaques, magnets, necklace charms and other sizes of boxes are also available. If I don't have the wood you are looking for, I will do my best to find it. Just ask, and I can make a unique listing for you.

So what's my special this week? 15% off any customized item, as long as it is ordered/requested/confirmed before Saturday, 9/17. If you make a purchase directly from one of the listings, I will refund the difference. If you would prefer me to make a unique listing once the item is complete, I will reflect the discounted price there. Just let me know!

Fallen tree slice burned with horse's brand

Customized items make great gifts for the holidays, as they not only showcase the abilities of the artist, but they are also unique and one-of-a-kind, picked and designed specifically for the person receiving it. It's not too early to start planning your gift list for this year...

I'd say about half of all the items I've sold since I started doing this were all custom items, either a customized version of something I already made, or a completely unique and custom idea. I love doing them, because each one has a different story behind it.

What's your story, and how will you let me bring it to life?

P.S. - Please don't ask me to create items with a copyrighted image/design. I do not want to deal with legal ramifications, and will only work with unique designs. If you have any questions on an image, just ask and we'll find out together.

~Getting Out There~ Part 4: CraftJuice

2011-09-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

Time seems to get away from me when I work at the paying job every day (tonight will be day 6 of 8 in a row), so forgive me if this post isn't up to par with the rest of them.

Today, I'd like to introduce you to CraftJuice, a fun little site I've taken to enjoying. In fact, I have that tab pinned open, so I can get to it whenever I'm in the mood.

What IS CraftJuice? you ask.... well, aside from being a "Social network for all things handmade from the world of crafts." "..it's a great way of showing off your craft items to a huge number of people - there are over 5,000+ followers of Craft Juice on Twitter and 1,000+ fans on Facebook it's a great way to network show off and even sell crafts... With the explosion of craft market places like etsy, folksy, artfire, misi and so many more the web needed a place to showcase the best crafts from all of them..."

The basis of it is to post an item for viewing - if that item has less than 5 votes, it is categorized as "Upcoming" - once you hit 5 or more votes, your item moves to the "Popular" page, and gets 'published ' on CraftJuice, which is then reposted to twitter and facebook, if not more places.

You have to create a free account to be able to post and vote, but they never send you spam emails - I've been with them for almost 2 months now, and gotten nothing from them.

The more you post, the more exposure you are bound to get, just don't post everything all at once. I have only posted 3 or 4 things, and I spread them out to a different day for each. Also, try different times, because you never know who will see your items and vote them up.

So, in return for posting items, you should go in and check out the Upcoming crafts and vote up the stuff you like (and conversely vote down any spammy, non-craft items that get posted) by clicking the blue up arrow next to the name of the item. The number there is how many votes it has currently. I go in once every couple days to check out all the new stuff that needs a push up.

I'm noticing some little feature each day, too... Like, I've discovered that if you click the Title of the posting from the main page, it goes to a separate page just for that single item. On that page you'll find a Like button, a Retweet button, as well as a Stumble button. There is also a list of people that have voted for that item, as well as some related items to check out. AND, they have a built-in Discussion thread thing, where you can post comments on the items, if you wish. I haven't seen many people using that last feature, but the others are nice to have, for sure.

There's also a way to check out your own stats, and apparently a way to follow other users (haven't really explored that just yet). I've also seen advertising spots one could purchase, but I have no idea how much it'd cost.

So, once you've created an account, posted a few items, and voted on some others, let me know what you think. I'm off to do some more voting right now :)

Sorry there's no pictures, kinda short on time right now. If you have questions, please ask. As for next week's post, I have no idea what I'll be writing about, but I do know there is still more to cover in this series, so keep your eyes peeled.

Special of the Week 9/5

2011-09-05T00:46:00.000-07:00

It's time for another ~Special of the Week~ This week, I'm featuring all of my Turn Peace Around items. Now through 9/9, you can grab any TPA item for 10% off! What a great way to pick out a unique handmade gift, or to introduce someone you know to this new thought regarding the peace sign.

For those that don't know, Turn Peace Around is my little mission to spread the message of a PRO-peace symbol, rather than an anit-war symbol. I'm doing this by creating a variety of handmade items featuring the flipped peace sign, and providing informational cards with each order so that you can explain why your peace sign is upside down.

The original peace sign was drawn as a man in despair over the nuclear arms race. A sad man, lost and empty, giving up on life.... Is that really the image we want representing a bountiful and peaceful world? We have to focus on the things we DO want, not the things we DON'T want... Our thoughts become our world, so think positive in order to create more positive.

So, think positive and pick up a new Turn Peace Around item - I've got jewelry, tote bags, and wooden charms to pick from, unless there's something custom you'd like me to make - just ask! Get it before 9/9 for 10% off!

~Getting Out There~ Part 3: Communities

2011-09-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

This week I want to talk a little about communities - you know, groups and places where people hang out and talk. I know, I know... more places to hang out online and take away from your creating or other real-life duties... not enough time in the day, right? That's where scheduling comes in to play. But that's a topic for another day.

Communities don't need to take up as much of your time as you think... Just 10-20 minutes a day, one or 2 days a week, to pop in the forums and say hi, or to post new pictures. The more places you are at, the less time you can spend on each, but the more potential to be seen.

So first, I have to bring up the Zibbet community. You don't have to be a seller on Zibbet to be a part of the community - everyone is welcome to come hang out! Sales and new promotions are always being posted, and there's lots of information about running a shop, selling overseas, celebrating international holidays, and just about anything you can think of to ask. The people are awesome, encouraging and extremely helpful. I try to pop in at least once every couple days. There is also a chat feature where you can get some real-time interaction with other Zibbet folks. I like popping in there once in a while.

There are lots of other communities out there, it just depends on how you want to connect with other people, and if you are trying to sell to potential customers, or just other crafters/sellers. This is where it is helpful to know your target market.

Personally, I'm on a few small business networking communities, but don't do much other than approve firend requests and add photos of my newest works. Here's a couple to look into:
-- Home Based Business - a network of fellow small, home-based business owners with years of experience to share with you. Lots of helpful articles and people already there, most of them in MLM or other similar tiered programs. Craft sellers really don't exist on this site, so it's a new place for us to reach out for customers.
-- Sales Spider - a network with a LOT of different things for small businesses, from resources and article on a variety of business topics, to a free classifieds section, to business leads and job opportunities. List your business in the directory to get your name out there, and wander around for a while.
-- WhyDoWork - this community is based on a forum, but also includes a site review feature as well as a blog full of resources. But really, it's the people there that are the greatest resource. I have a tendency to forget about this site, but end up back there one way or another.

As I mentioned before, it helps to connect with people on communities that are centered around the things you do, and as such, places like Indiepublic are great for anyone who loves indie, whether being the artist or the shopper. If you join, be sure to add information about your business in the profile, then wander through the groups and forums to see where you can contribute a little something.

I'm also a member of a woodburning community/forum - The Woodburner. Whenever I have questions regarding materials or techniques, I know where to go to ask. And I can share photos of my projects and get those reassuring comments that keep me going.

Whatever your talent, skill, product or niche, I'm sure there's at least one community out there for you to explore, hang out in, or at least post your business and shop link to. Think about it, then go exploring!

More to come in this series.... Next week we'll explore CraftJuice.

Special of the Week 8/29

2011-08-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

I think for this week, instead of offering a deal on one single item, I'm going to offer 25% off all items in a given category!

So, here ya go! For the next 6 days, all keychains are 25% off! That's my ~Special of the Week~ through 9/3.

This includes ready-made items as listed, customized items ordered before Saturday, and any Turn Peace Around keychains that are listed as well.

My keychains are great for people who aren't fond of heavy stuff dangling from their keys, since each wooden charm weighs a mere 0.2 ounces! They make great stocking stuffers for the person who has everything, since they can be personalized.

Grab yours today, and spread the word!

~Getting Out There~ Part 2: Link Referral

2011-08-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure if I wanted to dedicate a whole post to each individual site, but this one I know I can write plenty about, as I've been using Link Referral (off and on) for over 4 years now.

So, what is it? It's a system for generating traffic, similar to a traffic exchange, but often more personal. There are different ways to gain traffic to your site through Link Referral (LR), but the main thing I use and want to share with you is the directory itself.

This is one of those directories that you can NOT just "set it and forget it".... you need to be proactive in gaining traffic through this source. Give it about 10 minutes a day, as often as you can, and you'll see it working.

First, you sign up - name, password, email, the usual. You've also got the directory submission sections here as well - category and subcategory, site title, URL and description. ** Remember, keep it fairly short and concise, but still descriptive of what your site is about.

Once you're all set up (I believe there is a confirmation email), you can start earning traffic. That's right, I said "earning", because here, you have to work for the attention you get. Sure, you will get traffic just by being listed, but you'll get more traffic if you are listed higher in the directory.

To earn this higher ranking, you simply need to visit 30 sites and leave 5 reviews in a 24hr period. There are other things you can do, like make a post in the forums or add a site to your favorites list, but I rarely do those. Visiting the sites, however, is the easiest thing to do. Not to mention you aren't being forced to look at sites that don't interest you - simply browse through the directory and visit sites you might be interested in, based on the description. There is also a fairly new feature that allows you to search for sites based on a keyword. I have had LOTS of people find my business and pagan blogs because they search for "blogspot".

While you are wandering around checking out sites, you might see some that are really good, or ones that could use some constructive feedback. Be sure to let them know what you think by leaving that site a review. On the listings page, you will see options, one of them being "review this site". You will then see 4 categories that you can rate thumbs up, neutral, or thumbs down, followed by an overall rating for the site (1-10). You then leave a comment regarding the site. There are suggestions on what to mention in your review listed, but remember to be original and helpful in your comments. You don't want to be like "OMG perfect amazing site!" for every page you visit. Be sure to pick out specific things you noticed on their site (the color scheme, layout, choice of images, etc) and let the site owner know what you think of them. Be polite and professional, this can be the first impression you have on potential customers.

So, let's say you've received a few reviews already.... When you click the link to view them, you get all the details about the review, as well as the site that the person has set up on LR. So go check out their page! It counts as one of your 30 views for the day. And if you want to comment to the review they left for you, you need to leave them a review as well. So there's another point in your daily ranking.

Speaking of rankings, let's take a quick look at that. On the top right of most pages, you'll see a box like this. It shows you what you've already done to increase your rankings so far, and what else there is to do (notice "sites visited" and "sites reviewed"). There are helpful links everywhere, in case you aren't sure about something, like the quality rating part.

As you can see, I currently sit at #50 in the main category I chose, which was shopping, and #7 in the subcategory, which I picked as gifts. So if someone is wandering the directory and goes to Shopping > Gifts, they will see my site on the first page of the results. As I visit and review more sites today, those numbers will drop, meaning I show up higher in the results.

There's plenty more to discover in LR, like the forums (which I avoid since there really isn't much useful or helpful information there... more like people posting "I agree" just to get their ranking up) and what referrals can do for you, as well as some paid options. But like I said before, I've been using the free options to the best of my abilities, and I still get reviews and click-throughs to my site on a regular basis.

So, if my post has intrigued you enough, give it a shot. Let me know that you signed up, and I'll go hunt for you, so I can give you a review to get started. Play around with it some, and let me know what you think.

Whew! That was a long one! Thanks for sticking with me through it. Come back next week as we explore some communities to check out.

Sales are meant to be temporary...

2011-08-25T23:37:00.000-07:00

Or so I have come to realize....

When I first set up my Zibbet shop, moving over from Etsy, I included a shop section for Closeout items. These items were some of my oldest pieces that I still have in stock, and I thought the best way to move them was to offer them at 50% off. Little did I realize that this could been seen as a negative thing...

I have read things in various places lately that tell artists not to devalue their work, and that lowering prices would decrease the perceived value of one's items. And that got me to thinking about my Closeout section... Was it devaluing my own work?

So I decided to ask some fellow artisans and online sellers what they thought. I got a lot of valuable input on the connotations associated with words like "clearance" and "closeout", and it suddenly sank in to me that this is not the image I want to portray for my business.

As of today, I have decided that discounted prices on items need to be select sales/promotions, and not be permanent price adjustments. The closeout section of my shop is gone, all prices are adjusted back to normal, and I'll be able to use the Sales mode for shop-wide sales now.

Speaking of discounts, did I mention my Special of the Week? Grab this Celtic coaster set for 25% off, through Saturday (8/27) only!

Special of the Week 8/22

2011-08-22T00:08:00.000-07:00

I'm bringing back my --Special of the Week-- deals again, seeing as I have a lot of new stuff for you to pick from.

This week's special is one of those new pieces, featuring my favorite kind of design - Celtic knotwork. I present to you my Celtic Coaster Set w/ Matching Box!

Looking to add more Celtic class to your living room? Need somewhere to keep your drinks? Why not get this lovely set of matching Celtic knot coasters, complete with matching box for storage!

Normally priced at $44.95, you can get this set for 25% off this week only! Purchase before midnight 8/27 and pay only $33.75 (plus shipping)!

You never know when you'll see another deal like this, so jump on it before it's gone!

~Getting Out There~ Part 1: Directories

2011-08-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

First things first - when you are on a mission to get your business name "out there", you have to get on the Lists... the Directories. Sure, Google and Yahoo have probably already indexed you, so you probably show up on search results (somewhere, eventually). But you also want to get into directories - organized, searchable lists of sites and their descriptions. People that want quality results relating directly to their interests (gardeners will look on gardening directories, moms will be cruising mom-related directories, etc), are bound to check into directories.

Here are a few you need to get in on, especially if you are a crafter/artist:

DMOZ.org
dmoz is the home of the Open Directory Project, ODP, which is linked to AOL, Google, Yahoo, and other large search engines around the world. This one is my favorite so far. It is a HUGE directory, run and moderated by real people, with multiple language options. They have seemingly strict requirements, but those are there to ensure the quality of the listings in the directory. Be sure to read all the rules, and take a long walk through the directory to find the proper place for your site, before submitting your link. For most of us, these rules shouldn't be a problem. Remember, there are real people reviewing your submission, so it could take a little while to get a confirmation for your listing. I submitted mine almost 2 weeks ago, and I'm still waiting to hear back from them if I got in or not. But I am patient, and thinking positive.

freecraftfair.com
Free Craft Fair is a great site with loads of helpful information for crafters, particularly those trying to turn their hobby into a business. They have lots of articles on how to sell your crafts, and they enjoy featuring crafters on their site as well. There is also a dedicated Craft Directory, listing all sorts of sites that sell, teach and glorify crafts in all forms. Listing in the directory is free, just fill out the simple form here. I was in this directory with my old site, and recently contacted them about updating my listing. Friendly staff, easy to work with.

craftsitedirectory.com
The Craft Site Directory has been online for over 10 years now. They have lots of links already, and they aren't just shops. You'll find how-to sites, patterns, supplies, as well as online shops selling finished crafts. Getting listed is free - simply read the rules and send in your email. I used to be listed here when I had my stand-alone site, but have since been removed. Will be getting myself listed there again soon (already have the banner in my shop).

** youcraft.org has been removed from this post - while it seemed promising, I couldn't even create an account to try it out. Received a 404 Forbidden error page. So, don't bother. **

That's all the directories for now. But before I go, I wanted to leave you with a couple tips for directories:
-- Keep it short, simple and clear. Most places allow you to enter your own description of the site you are submitting, and some have size limits. So come up with a sentence or two that are short, but still clear on announcing what it is you do, and what can be found at the site you are submitting. Keep this handy as you move from one site to the next.
-- Re-directing may not be allowed. Some directories, like dmoz, do not allow submissions that are for URLs that simply redirect to another site. I had to enter my zibbet.com URL instead of using www.breathofthedragon.com which kinda makes me sad, but also lets me know that if I ever change my site, I will have to go back and resubmit my address.
-- Leave FB (and other social media) out of it. Unless you are selling on Facebook, and Facebook is the ONLY site for your goods, don't bother submitting your FB link. Social media is a fad that changes over time, as will you. So unless you expect to live on FB, Twitter, Stumble (or whatever) for the rest of your online life, stick with the most important address, your selling site.
-- Don't pay someone to do it for you. There are plenty of places online that offer to do directory submissions for you, often to a large number of directories.... but how many of those are actually worth it? Not to mention the quality places are cracking down on this submission-bots. So save your money, take a few extra minutes out of your week, and submit your link by hand, to quality sites you want to be affiliated with.

Okay, that's definitely enough for now. Don't mean to overwhelm you guys, just trying to group things together. Watch for the next one, as I will be introducing you to Link Referral, a tool I've been using for years now.

New Series: ~Getting Out There~

2011-08-17T00:53:00.000-07:00

So I found this site with a list of "50 sites to promote your website", and at first I was all like, 'yea, sure, a bunch of sites that just collect your data but don't do anything with it'.... but as I skimmed it (skipping over MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other well-known self-promo sites), I came across some sites that actually seemed worth my time, as an artist and crafter and small-business.

In fact, almost all the pages I want to share with you in this series are open in a set of tabs on my browser right now....

Originally, I was simply going to share these links on my FB business page, but quickly realized that I had a lot more to say than would fit in the 'comment' section of each posting... So I've decided to post each one here, and spread them out to once a week, so that I can give each site a thorough description as well as my take on how this site will help us out, as crafters and artists.

I'm not sure which day of the week I want to set these for yet... but keep an eye out - first one should be up within the next 7 days (max)....

Proud Supporter of Turn Peace Around

2011-08-08T16:28:00.000-07:00

For those that have been following my blog for a while, you know that I do more than just burn wood. I've also explored other crafts under the guise of creating items featuring a flipped peace sign for Turn Peace Around. You may also know that I have been reconsidering having a second shop for all of these items. Well, no more!

As of today, Turn Peace Around is now a section in the main Breath of the Dragon online shop.

All current listings from TPA have been moved, edited, and reposted on BotD@Zibbet. Once I finish this blog post, I will be updating the announcement on the old TPA shop, directing all new visitors to the section @ BotD.

I have new items that will be coming soon, too. So keep your eyes open and watch my little business grow!

New products and big changes coming soon...

2011-08-06T01:24:00.000-07:00

During this time of reflection (aka Mercury Retrograde), I've been reviewing and re-evaluating my online selling presence. First I was working on updating my cell phone charms into a simpler "small wooden charm" that could be used on a variety of items. With a bunch of new prop images and a list of new tags, I got to editing. That felt really good to get done. But then I felt like other things needed to be reconsidered.

Recent positive comments regarding the necklace I made for myself (seen at left) got me to thinking.... what if I did make these to sell? I originally picked up hemp jewelry making because of my second shop, but could easily adapt it to my wood burning, by featuring a woodburned charm as the focal of the necklace. That's what I did with my Horde necklace, and this custom one I made a couple years ago. So why not do more? I always thought if I got into jewelry, I'd get lost in the mix... but now I'm realizing that people who like my wood burnings might better appreciate a necklace they could wear any day of the week, rather than a plaque hanging on their wall. I'm not trying to sell jewelry, I'm selling the woodburning...

So, in the coming month, watch for hemp jewelry with woodburned charms to show up in my shop. Who knows, there might even been some plain hemp stuff (aka no wooden charm) as well. And yes, I plan to make bigger, chunkier stuff as well as dainty stuff - gotta cover both gender bases, after all.

Now for the big change.... As the reflecting continues, I turn once again to my second shop at Turn Peace Around. It's a cause I feel strongly about (just ask anyone that sees me on a regular basis), but I know I can't change everyone's mind about it. So I told myself I'd just leave the free shop up, and only promote it when I was around people that seemed interested. That never happens, it seems.

So what do I do with all this product I've already made that I can't seem to sell? Well, some of the pieces are wood, so it would make sense to add them to my main shop, where they would get more exposure (comes with being premium). But why add just the wood stuff? Why not make a subsection for all of my TPA items? Considering most of the jewelry is hemp, and I'll be introducing hemp stuff into my shop soon, I could easily connect the two.

And that's what I'm doing - I spent today duplicating and editing all of the listings from the TPA shop as drafts (not yet listed) into my Breath of the Dragon shop. Once I get some new and better pictures of those items, I will gradually start posting them (wood stuff first, of course). Once I've gotten everything listed in the one shop, I will adjust the announcement and profile of the second shop, directing everyone to the new subsection. Doubt it will matter much - I barely get 100 hits a month on that shop anyhow.

I will keep the 2 separate FB pages, though. I want people that appreciate the Turn Peace Around movement to be able to LIKE that without having to LIKE my woodburning page. There may be some duplicate posting between the two, and cross-tagging, but that comes with the territory. Plus, having a separate page for Turn Peace Around gives people somewhere to go to read about why I'm flipping peace signs in the first place.

At this point, I don't really want to set any of it live just yet... Something about starting something new during a retrograde that does sit right with me..... Although, I have heard that revisiting old ideas and reviving them with new life is a good thing during a retrograde. Since the jewelry is an old idea I'm revisiting, do you think it's okay to launch that? Combining the shops was a pretty new idea, so I think I'll ease into that slowly.... if I can. I have a habit of getting sucked into a project and not stopping until it's done, especially when I am personally connected to it like this. I guess we'll just have to see how it goes...

When all the new stuff is up, I'll be sure to let EVERYONE and their brother know, believe me. It's a huge step (both things), and I wouldn't want anyone to miss out.

Alright, getting sleepy - better post this so I can go to bed. Take care, and thanks for keeping up with my adventures!

Not just for cell phones any more....

2011-07-30T00:16:00.000-07:00

In the process of trying to truly develop my hobby into a business, I've gone through and revisited some ideas I originally had. For one, I decided to focus on Celtic knotwork and Kanji designs. Another is that I've discovered some of the many uses for (what I thought were only) cell phone charms.

Using the same method for attaching it to something as you would your cell phone (see image on right), by pulling the lanyard around the thing you want to attach it to, then pulling the charm back through the lanyard, you can attach these small wooden charms onto a variety of things. What better way to identify something as your own, than with a unique, hand-made wooden charm?

Let's look at some of these other uses...

Wine Glasses and other Drinkwear

You can easily attach these to most wine glasses, as long as the stem is small or average in size. If the stem is too thick, you can't get the charm to go back through the lanyard once it is wrapped around the stem. Wine glasses are not the only drinking vessels to adorn, however. You can also use these charms to identify your coffee mug, especially if you leave it in the break room at work. Again, the thicker the handle, the less likely the charm will easily attach to the mug handle.

Electronics

Just as most standard cell phones have the small loop for adding a charm, I've also come to learn that most digital cameras these days also have this same loop. I'm not sure, but perhaps even portable gaming devices (PSP, Nintendo DS, Gameboy, etc) have a place to connect a lanyard. What about SmartPhones? Check yours to see if it has this place to hang a lanyard. Make sure the world knows which one is yours, and easily identify it when it gets lost, by hanging a customized wooden charm from your favorite portable electronic device.

Accessories

Another place to hang these lightweight little charms is on any small metal ring, such as on a purse, keyring, or other accessory. As long as you don't use it as a zipper pull (the wood is weak because of the hole, and cannot withstand repeated tugging), you can mark just about any accessory with your little wooden tag.

What else?

Pretty much anything that has a loop through which you can put the lanyard, and still fit the charm back through the loop in the cord, you can identify as your own with my customized wooden charms. What will you think of to hang it on?

Check out my handmade charms, ready to ship today: Wooden Charms by Breath of the Dragon on Zibbet

Want your very own? Why not consider getting a customized charm? See this listing on Zibbet for details on custom orders.

Finding Focus and Direction

2011-07-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Over the last week or so, I've been trying to improve my shop, but I didn't know what or where or how. So I was doing some reading and chatting with some of the helpful folks on Zibbet. It took a while for all the information I was taking in to actually absorb into my brain and be processed. As I was walking to work (the paying job at the grocery store) last night, after spending almost all day in the chat room on Zibbet, my subconscious thoughts on the whole thing began to emerge (it's pretty easy to get lost in thought on a 20 min walk through town) to a point I could actually hear them.

It was the construction truck that I saw that broke the dam. On the truck were the words "Specializing in Roofing", and that first word just struck the right chord. I knew I had to specialize in my own shop if I wanted to find the focus and market niche I needed. After all, who do I market to if my products are all over the place?

So the first thing I needed to do was narrow down my work to certain 'categories'... I needed to find the themes that were most prominent, the ones I enjoyed making the most, and the ones that my customers have expressed the most interest in. Words like 'pagan' and 'dragons' were considered, but I decided that might scare away too many people. I wrote down the words that came to mind, and rearranged them based on how they sounded together. And so my new tagline emerged:

"Specializing in Celtic, Tribal and Kanji designs"

Some of the very first pieces I made were Kanji (Japanese writing), and I really love the smooth and flowy, yet sharp-edged, lines of those designs. Celtic knotwork is quite popular in pyrography, and so many of my fans have told me how much they love mine. And tribal, well, that just fits in with the smooth and flowy, yet sharp-edged, lines that I enjoy so much. It was just too perfect.

Alright, so I have my specialty.... but what about all the other stuff I've already made that doesn't fit into one of those 3 categories? I had to make a new set of sections for my shop, themes, that everything can fit into. Before, the sections in my shop were based on the type of item. But a lot of people are looking for a certain theme or style when they shop, so it only makes sense to have sections like that in my shop as well. Not to mention all of the successful shops I see have lots of sections that make it easier for their customers as well.

One of my favorite features of Zibbet is that we can have each item in more than one section. From what I understand, this is a fairly unique feature in online selling. So why not take advantage of it and make as many different kinds of sections as possible, to help the shoppers?

Here you can see my new list of sections, both Themes and Types. The numbers are # of items in that section. I just finished updating the listings this morning, so the numbers in Themes and Types should match the total number of listings in my shop (each item is in the main category, so that these categories show up on the side bar).

This new way of organizing will definitely help people better find what they are looking for in my shop. No matter if they are looking for boxes and keychains, or dragons and celtic knotwork.

As you can see, my most populated theme section right now is the Words / Sayings section. Guess I have been pretty busy with those, eh? LOL But I can also see that I need to make more items in my 'specialized' categories if I want to live up to my new tagline....

I must say, I am glad I did this now, when I only have 56 items in my shop... I can't imagine having to update every single listing when I get around to having over 100 items in my shop...

Are you looking for focus and direction in your shop? Look around at other successful shops, talk to people, read tips on discussion boards, and then let your subconscious tell you where you need to be going. I think the biggest tip that meant something to me was "Do what you love" - the people who appreciate it will find you and be your loyal customers. It didn't really sink in, though, until I tried to pick the right words to narrow down my themes... Do what you love, and do it to the best of your ability. You'll get more satisfaction from it.

Premium Upgrade

2011-07-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

For those that don't know, I sell my wood-burnings on a site called Zibbet. It is similar to Etsy and Artfire, but much newer, cleaner (looking), and friendlier. The best part? You can have a free account; pay nothing to list items, pay no fees when items sell, nothing!

Granted, it can feel a little restricting, because there are tons of cool features that are not available to free members. But it is a great way to get started. With a free account, you can list up to 50 items, do some basic customization to your shop (no limit on sections!), each listing gets 4 photo slots, and you have access to a wonderful community of very helpful sellers as well as the site admins.

So, since I was spending more money on fees at Etsy than I was actually making in profit, I decided to give the free shop a try. In January, I closed my Etsy shop and opened for business on Zibbet. I really enjoyed getting settled in, meeting people, and sharing my wood-burnings with a whole new crowd. I had seen some great-looking shops that were Premium (paid), and I kept saying that I would love to do that for my own.

Well, as of last night, I had finally had enough sales to afford the $69 for a year of Premium (that comes out to only $5.75/month!), thanks to a couple sales from a fellow seller. I had announced my goal, and within 24 hours, had reached it! I was/am totally stoked! So I got the orders packed and shipped this morning, and hurried home to work on the upgrade.

Sooooo many things have become available now - luckily I knew exactly where I wanted to start. First, change some colors to complete my branding. Next, adjust prices and set a sales mode for the Closeouts section, so that the sale price is obvious (hopefully encouraging more people to buy those, since they can easily see the deal they are getting). Then, review all items that had been listed at one point but were no longer active (due to previous limit on # of listings), check to see that I still had them in stock, and get them posted.

Some other changes I made: Added a few images to my shop Profile, of my craft show display, of myself, and of my dragon. Also picked some feedback to display at the top of the Shop Home. Inserted 2 widgets on the side bar (Facebook and Stik.com), probably going to add more later.

Who knows what's next? Probably coupon codes. Gonna set up a bunch for different uses, that's for sure. Any other suggestions?

Pagan Symbolism

2011-07-05T23:33:00.001-07:00

It's not always just about a pretty picture or a cute image. A lot of the designs I burn have a deeper meaning or they serve as a symbol of something greater. Today, I'd like to share some of those with you, starting with Pagan symbols, as they are some of the most prominent that I work with, and are often my best-sellers. Let me bring up just a few.

The pentacle (5 pointed star, or pentagram, encased within a circle) is one of the most common images related to Paganism, and a lot of Pagans/Witches/Wiccans/etc use it as a symbol of their faith, similar to Christians with the Cross. It usually represents the elements Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit as the top-most point. The inverted pentacle, with 2 points upward, is often related to Satanism and the "goat's head."

Another popular image is the Goddess, which takes on many forms. The Goddess is a universal symbol for fertility and nurturing, since the female is the life-bearer and home-tender, even in ancient history. I prefer the image of a curvy female figure with a spiral in the center and her arms raised above her head. Other Goddess images, like the Venus of Willendorf, feature a full-figured woman with large breasts and wide hips.

There are other symbols that represent the Goddess that aren't the human figure, like the triple moon, made up of 2 crescent moons and a full circle in the center. In many beliefs, the Goddess is also the moon, and just as a woman has phases in her life, so does the moon. This symbol represents the 3 main phases of the moon, which can be translated to the phases in a woman's life. Waxing is when the moon moves from New to Full, or it appears to be getting bigger. This period of growth correlates to the youth of a woman, also known as the Maiden stage. Once the moon has reached full, the Goddess is at her height, bearing children and raising a family, the Mother. As the moon begins to shrink back to knew, she has shed her light on the world and is readying for rest, also known as the Crone stage of the Goddess.

Just as there are symbols for the Goddess, Her other half has some popular images as well. The most common representation of the God is the Greenman, a face made of leaves. As the God rules over the warmer months and the growing season, it makes sense to have a those growing green things bring to life His face. Usually, the design is such that at first it looks like a jumbled mess, but after a closer look, you can see the face emerge from the lines and shading.

The spiral is the last one I'd like to touch on today. You can't deny that there is a cycle to life, and many Pagans see the Spiral as a representation of that cycle. Every action connects to other actions and creates growth in the life of the individual as well as the whole of humanity. Often, the spiral is added to other symbols to create a 'greater picture' that holds that much more meaning.

Pagans are the kind of people that sometimes choose to create their own religion by taking pieces from other faiths, and with that they also tend to take the symbols with them. Things like celtic knotwork, runes, stonehenge and crosses (equal-length arms) may be seen with pagan references now, but they all came from somewhere else. I'll be talking about those in other posts. For now, I think you have more than enough to think about....

800 Fans Celebration!

2011-07-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

Well, over at my Facebook page, I've been bragging that I'd do something big to celebrate reaching 800 fans, and it seems we've done it! So here's what I'm doing....

One lucky person will win $25 to spend as they like in my shop (this will cover the cost of items only - buyer is still required to pay shipping). If you want to win, you have to enter.

Rules:
~ You have to be 18 or older to enter.
~ You can only enter once.
~ You must be a fan of the Facebook page before entering.
~ You must provide a valid email address, so I can contact you if you win.

To enter, reply to this post with your full name (as it appears on FB, please), valid/current email address, and what you would spend the $25 on if you won. All replies will be kept confidential - your email address will not be shared with the world, or used for spam purposes, I promise. It's just a way to contact you if you win.

On Monday, 4 July, I will use random.org to pick a winner from the list of entries.

If you win, you will have 1 week to pick your items from the shop. Since I don't have a fancy account at Zibbet that allows me to use coupon codes, I will go over exactly how to pick your items and pay for shipping in an email to the winner. You will need to use as much of the $25 as you can - leftover credit cannot be saved. If you spend over $25 on the items, you will only have to pay the difference, plus shipping. But don't worry - I'll go over all of that in the email.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your entry in now!!

Crafty Business recap - the first 18

2011-06-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

I've finally run out of people to interview in my blog... so I'm taking a break from posting an interview this week to bring you a recap of all the people that I have interviewed so far, in case you missed any of them.

In order of appearance:
Rose Works Jewelry ~ I started with a friend I made through a local Etsy team, Ruthie, the mastermind behind Rose Works Jewelry. From bead-weaving to hemp, she does a lot of different things, and you're sure to find something you like.

AmyJosCreations ~ A fellow active Facebook-er, Amy was quick to jump on the opportunity to be part of my blog. While the name sounds vague and general, it's more of an umbrella name, because Amy does lots of different crafts, as you can see at AmyJosCreations.

POP Embroidery ~ Then we moved on to a new friend I made through Zibbet, Teresa of POP Embroidery. She started with cards and scrapbooking, but has since moved to embroidery, and she's pretty darn good at it, if I do say so myself.

Enchanted Craft ~ If you're into sci-fi and fantasy, then Nicole and her mom Gigi probably have something for you in their shop, Enchanted Craft. From dragons and fairies to pop-culture science fiction, they've got it all. And if they don't, just ask!

Beaded Bazaar ~ Back to jewelry, I brought you Joy of BeadedBazaar. Another person I met since moving to Zibbet, she's got a simple yet unique style that you are sure to love.

Clarify Wearable Art ~ This was one of those fully established businesses that gives inspiration to other small crafty businesses. Come see how Claranne of Clarify Wearable Art takes her experience working in the fashion industry and creates her own successful business.

Pretty Twisted Jewelry ~ Silver being my preferred color in metal jewelry, I enjoyed talking to Kim of Pretty Twisted Jewelry and showcasing her work. I'm sure you'll find something you adore as well.

Yummy Cuppy Crafts ~ Ever been told you need to find a niche and run with it? Well, Kimberly of Yummy Cuppy Crafts has done just that, with her collection of unique cupcake wrappers. But that's not all she does - check it out.

ARTiBILITY ~ I met Anna of ARTiBILITY through Facebook and Link Love, and it has been fun watching her come up with new unique gifts that she makes in her jewelry, particularly the hand-stamped stuff.

Scent by an Angel ~ One of my local crafter friends, I thought it only fair to bring some extra attention to Samantha, of Scent by an Angel. Her soy candles are super fun and luxurious, and we've enjoyed being at craft shows together.

Pizzaz Glaz ~ Nancy is a painter, and as you can see at Pizzaz Glaz, she'll paint on just about anything that gets in her way. She does some lovely work, and is very active in the Zibbet community.

Clay Art by Daresa ~ I love hearing stories of people that truly take off doing what they love. Daresa has done just that with Clay Art by Daresa, with her collection of clay figurines, particularly the Lucky Bugs line.

Elfling Creations ~ Another friend I originally met through Etsy, Meri of Elfling Creations has all sorts of items for the fantasy and magical lover. Elf ears, chainmaille, runes, dragons, and more - she's got it all.

Heavenly Princess ~ Sometimes young crafters and business people emerge, and it was definitely a pleasure talking to Jordan of Heavenly Princess about what it's like running in a business at such a young age. Seems like she's got a good head on her shoulders.

Moxnme ~ Stained glass is an art form that takes a lot time, patience, and energy. Michelle of Moxnme is one of those people that has the strength to work with it, and it was a pleasure to bring you this rare art form.

Quilling by Sandra White ~ Ever heard of quilling? Well, it's not as simple as it may sound - twirling paper around to create shapes. But Sandra (Quilling by Sandra White) has been doing it a long time, even before people knew what it was. Come see some of her amazing quilling art pieces.

Red Rose Confections ~ Sometimes your main business needs an extra push... And Heather of Red Rose Cakes (and it's subdivision, Red Rose Confections) has done a wonderful job supplementing her local cake business with an online candy shop.

Charmed Touches ~ One of my best customers, I had to bring you the creative explorations of my friend Daniel, who runs Charmed Touches while holding down a full-time job. I love when two small businesses can support each other.

Be sure to check out the interviews as well as the individual shops. I know these folks would appreciate the extra exposure. Who knows, you just might find that perfect 'Christmas in July' gift while you are browsing....

For anyone who has not been interviewed yet but would like to be, please send an email to sunfire-at-breathofthedragon-dot-com with the subject line "Blog Interview". I'll send you the starting questions and we'll get working on your posting. If you have already been interviewed, but know of someone that should be considered, send me an email with their name/shop/link and any other contact info. I will get a hold of that person and see if they'd like to be included.

Lessons Learned on Facebook

2011-06-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

I've tried something fun on my Facebook page - Alphabetical Shout-outs, a different letter of the alphabet each day.

For those that don't know, you can tag other FB pages that you have liked by typing @ before the page name. Also, if you type @ followed by a letter or two, options should appear in a drop-down menu-style list below your posting box. You can then select the page you are trying to tag. Once you'd posted, the tagged page will see your post on their own page.

So I decided to do a little cross-promotion for pages that I have 'Liked', by tagging pages in a daily post. Each day, I tagged pages that started with a different letter of the alphabet. June 1st, I tagged a bunch of pages I liked that start with "A". Little did I know what I was getting myself into - LOL!

Because of the way I manage my page, I can only tag pages that I have liked with my personal page. In order to see all the pages I have liked, I had to go to my own profile, select the Info tab, scroll down to the section labeled Activities & Interests, and click on "Show More Pages". I then had to scan through the whole list looking for pages that started with "A", then switch tabs to the business page and start typing the name in to tag it.

Lesson #1 - the list of pages is not sorted in any way.
Solution - copy the list, paste into Excel (one page name per row), then sort the list.
I did this one night, took about 2 hours (I have over 600 pages I've liked). I also took out the names of pages I would not be tagging - bands, charities, brands, local businesses, etc. Now I have a pretty list that is easily re-sorted anytime I like a new page.

Lesson #2 - tagged POSTS show up on the tagged person's page, but COMMENTS that include tags do NOT show up on the recipient's end.
Solution - ? ? ? Still working on a way to get around this. I want the pages to know I am helping them out, but there is a limit of 6 tags per post/comment, etc. The best thing, I think, is to come up with a way to tag 5 or 6 pages per post, instead of trying to post every page that starts with a certain letter.

One way I have seen tags done is to write a little story, and replace words in the story with a tagged page. Another way is a tagging 'round' sort of - I was tagged by someone, and in return I have to tag 5 more pages. I want to be different and unique, so I'll keep thinking of another way to spread out my tagging shout-outs.

Sorry there's no photos... I didn't feel like taking screen-shots. However, if you would like me to, to better explain anything, let me know.

Crafty Business: Charmed Touches

2011-06-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

This week on Crafty Business, I'm chatting with one of my best customers, who is also a small-business owner. Daniel Sullivan, of Charmed Touches, has not only been a pleasure to work with as a customer, but he has also supplied my boyfriend with oils for the soap he makes. It's a good thing when 2 small businesses can support each other!

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I have always had a fascination with helping individuals and working with herbs and other hobbies. I have studied herbs for the better part of 17 years, and I am constantly learning more and more each day. I look forward to continuing on this journey, and look forward to meeting all of the new people I come across each and every day!

~ How did you make the jump from studying herbs in their 'solid' form to working with them in a liquid extract form? What brought you to where you are now?
I currently work with herbs and herbal remedies in various forms. I plan to eventually carry bulk herbs, herbal tinctures, blended essential oils, individual essential oils, hand made jewelry, and bath salts in the near future. Further down the road, I would like to expand into carrying more bath and body products, but exactly what that would entail is yet to be determined. My experience and passion for the last 18 years has driven me to learn more and more about natural remedies and how to help others. That is my passion, and I believe that if you believe in something enough, the energy will be contagious and others will begin to share what we value.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I originally never intended to sell my oils, at first they were just a fun experiment. Then as I started getting better and better at it, and the requests continued, I decided to turn it into a business. Many people have been happy with the products I offer, and I look forward to offering more in the future.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Meeting new people I would have never met otherwise, and constantly having the opportunity to learn and improve something I am very passionate about.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part has been trying to get it going steady in an uncertain economy.

~ You seem to be doing alright so far - what do you most attribute your current success to?
I attribute my passion to succeed, personal drive, my love for natural things, and the support from friends and family, especially my friends. Without them, I would not be where I am today.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
No matter how hard it gets, keep going. Anything worthwhile is rarely easy.

Other Links:
Facebook
Twitter
Forum
Blog

Crafty Business: Red Rose Confections

2011-06-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

A lot of the businesses we feature here on Crafty Business create goods that aren't consumable.... but when we find food, and chocolate at that, we definitely need to feature them! Sweet treats is what you will find at Red Rose Confections (a sublet of Red Rose Cakes), brought to you by the talented Heather Santo.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I got started playing with food when I graduated high school and was looking for a job while I was in college that would pay more than minimum wage. I saw an ad in local grocery store that was looking for an apprentice cake decorator so I applied and got it. In my first job, I worked in the bakery as a helper to the cake decorator and I wanted to be the one that stood in the window making the cakes myself.

Fifteen years later, I was still doing it while I worked through college. I also learned some basic piping skills and chocolate work. When I got out of college, I realized that what I was doing was not paying the bills so I moved up in the company to human resources. Less than two years later I was laid-off and decided that it was time to going back to what I loved. Chocolate.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I decided to start selling my work after my lay-off as a way to get back into what I loved. Some of my friends suggested that I go into business for myself and doing cakes locally is hard to get off the ground so I started to expand to something that I could sell online: all of my chocolate products. Red Rose Confections is a subsidiary of my cake business: Red Rose Cakes. I purchased all of the equipment and the rest is history.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
The best part of my craft business journey has been meeting all of the talented people along the way and hearing positive reinforcement from complete strangers gives me the strength to go on and keep pursuing my dreams.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part so far is getting established. The economy is rough and people don’t have a lot of money to spend on frivolous things and if I want people to buy my product it must be unique and it must be stellar. I have to find a way to get them out of the large stores and to my handcrafted items.

~ Have you done any shows with your cakes and/or chocolates?
I haven't done any shows as of yet with it only coming up on my first year and with the move. A lot of them are quite expensive for tables (especially bridal shows) which is a lot of the reason why I haven't done it yet and all of my business cards are wrong so until we establish here and get new cards we are going to avoid shows. Hopefully during Christmas we will have money for a booth!

I think they would really help business, especially with candy because it will encourage impulse purchases. Its one thing to see a picture of a chocolate covered cookie and its another thing to have it all wrapped up and ready for you to purchase right then and there!

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
My number one suggestion to fellow crafters is PROMOTE! Promote everywhere you can and if it seems like you are blogging to yourself or posting and no one is reading, someone will and just keep doing it. Keep Tweeting. Keep Facebooking. Keep Blogging.

Other Links:
Facebook Page
Twitter
Artfire Studio
Zibbet Shop

Camera for sale....

2011-06-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

Hey folks... I'm doing some downsizing, trying to milk some money out of what I have... and I finally admitted to myself that I need to sell my digital SLR camera. It's a good camera, but for the last year plus, it's been sitting in the corner collecting dust on the bag. So, I'm trying to sell it.

Need a good camera for product shots, portraits, scenery, recording family memories? This could be just the thing for you.

I'd prefer to sell it locally, but if the right person wants it and is willing to pay for shipping, I can ship it (in the US). Comes with everything you need - manuals, extra battery, neck strap, bag, charger, 1GB CF memory card. Check out the craigslist posting for more details. Email me if you are seriously interested.

Crafty Business: Quilling by Sandra White

2011-06-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here on Crafty Business, we enjoy bringing you stories of successful artists, and sometimes we learn something new. Like today, we are exploring a rare craft known as Quilling. In fact, I had never even heard of it until about a year ago. Come meet Sandra J. White and her gorgeous work at Quilling by Sandra White.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I started quilling in 1975, simply as a way to create a wedding gift for my girlfriend. I picked up the quilling paper at a craft shop, made a large group of tiny flower, placed them around the wedding invitation and framed it. When I took the piece back to show the lady at the craft supply shop, she looked close and said "you didn't have a quilling tool!" I had wrapped the strips of paper around a pin to make the rolls. She sold me a 95 cent quilling tool, and I was off. It was so much easier with the tool that I haven't stopped. I developed the idea of placing the cut-out over the quilling, which is 'quilling my way', by accident. My mother in law and I were trying to collaborate a lamp shade as she did cut and pierced lampshades. But when the lamp was turned on, all you saw was a blob. When it was off, you saw the quilling behind the cutwork. And the story continues....

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I started selling my work because I enjoyed making it so much that I just wanted to keep creating. I had always loved any kind of needlework and sewing, but quilling just felt right. It was a craft that was in every craft magazine in the early 70's, so I tried it. I attended a craft show in a small mall a couple miles from home and sold a lot, like almost $100 -- that was a lot back then. So I was hooked. The feeling that someone actually liked my work enough to buy it was wonderful. And encouraging. My mom did some small dried floral pieces and hers sold too, so that was nice.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
I really feel that the best part of my journey has been the other craftspeople, now my friends, and all the encouragement we have given each other along the way. As a member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, we all get together at least once a year at the annual week long crafts fair. And it is always a reunion. We see each others new work and we all collect.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest has been the past few years trying to choose the best outlets in an economy that does not lend itself to the extras -- and my work tends to be an extra. The good part has been that people still get married, so my wedding invitations are still being requested. And once someone has bought one, they remember me the next time.

~ You've been doing this for a long time; Is there any one project that truly stands out in your memory, as a favorite or most interesting piece?
I can't really say that any piece particularly stands out in my mind as a favorite. The wedding invitations and birth announcements are always different, so they are just fun to create. Its nice to be part of all the weddings, which is up to well over 2,600 in 35 years. Each piece tends to lead to the next piece, and even a single heron is different next time, always thinking its better than the last, of course. Perhaps the piece that was most challenging was the piece that is completely different for me, my Quilled Quilt. It was a piece that I designed from a quilting theory because I wanted to use all the colors of quilling paper that are not used in flowers and birds. I designed the piece, cut the overlay and then starting quilling. I really had not thought about how big the spaces were and how much quilling was involved. Each space has a different shape and color. A challenge to finish, but wonderful when done. I may design more of these but on a smaller scale.........maybe. When the mood hits. [Then there is] the really big sunflower and mountains piece that I did. Probably the biggest challenge to finish... over 30 hours of quilling in it.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
I would just suggest that every craftsperson follow their dream and create what they love, not what the economy dictates.......... that little piece that you hate making 200 of is simply not worth it. You only need to sell one piece you love to make up for all 200 of those little 'I hate 'ems'.

Other Links:
Artfire
Bonanza
Zibbet
League of NH Craftsmen

Getting over burnout

2011-06-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

I think I'm starting to get out of this funk.... I hate to admit it, but I think I burned myself out, between the craft show in April and all the time I put into getting samples made for various people. For the last few weeks, I've had it in my head that I wanted to make something new, but that's as far as it ever got. When I mentioned it on my Facebook page, I got quite a few encouraging comments, suggesting that 'when you're ready, you will jump right in.' I guess today was that day...

A couple days ago, I pulled out a few pieces of wood from my stash box, figuring that if the naked wood sat around, I'd eventually have to do something with it (which almost always works). A 6"x6"x4" box, a small scalloped-edge plaque, and a larger oval plaque. The smaller plaque and the box came easy to me (no, I'm not sharing - I want to wait until they are done), but the oval piece went through many ideas before I settled on one that made me happy.

So, I got the pieces sanded up, and I traced the designs onto them. Amazingly, I even got the smaller plaque burned today. I was surprised how quickly it went. Hope to get the other two burned in the next couple days.

I'm not really sure what brought me out of the funk... perhaps it was the weather shifting, the wind and rain leaving and the warmth coming out... perhaps it was the productive day I had yesterday that got me started on a roll that I just had to keep going... then again, maybe I was just tired of hearing myself complain about not doing anything. Who knows? Whatever the case may be, I'm back. The more I focus on making things, the better I feel about my shop, which then generates a sale or two here and there... I honestly think the positive thinking actually works, even in the smallest ways, even for a business.

Well, I was rambling and now it's time for me to head out to the paying job for the evening. Hope everyone is having a splendid weekend!

Crafty Business: Moxnme

2011-05-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

While some forms of art require only a couple hours to complete, others take much more time, effort and supplies, like stained glass. This week on Crafty Business, we're chatting with Michelle Slivinsky, who does beautiful stained glass work and sells it at Moxnme.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I was influenced in the art of stained glass from my mother. I remember being young and watching her create such beautiful works of art. She always encouraged me to pursue art and gave me the freedom to explore any and every medium. She taught me the stained glass technique and encourages me to this day to continue to be creative. I try to create items using traditional methods in a non traditional way to bring stained glass into a modern "fun" art form.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
Stained glass is a process driven art form. There are so many steps that in order to improve my skills and technique and of course, pay for new supplies, I decided to participate in craft shows, create a website to showcase all of my work and now to sell already made items on Zibbet.

~ Do you seem to sell more in person at shows, or online?
I am very successful at shows and believe this is because I have the ability to engage with my customers. I feel that people want to know how and who created the item. We are a society that is very focused on technology but I think art is a personal feeling. Sometimes the buyer just needs to connect and "touch" an item. I try to have a variety of items available at shows to showcase my skills and allow the customer to envision the items in their homes. Once I connect with a customer at a show I very often hear back from them wanting something custom. Shows also allow you to see peoples reaction to your items and show you where you should focus your energy. I get many new ideas just from speaking with customers.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
The best part of this journey is seeing people connect with one of my pieces. Everyone has a connection to stained glass and a story, and I feel blessed to be a part of it.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part is having the confidence in my art and not getting discouraged. Stained glass is an expensive art form and a very hard one to master; not everyone appreciates this.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
My biggest suggestion for fellow artisans is to step away from the computer- get out and sell your items face to face. There is no greater feeling than meeting your customers. I like to think that every customer I meet has a circle of friends and if I make quality products and provide excellent service I will get a referral- word of mouth is key!

Other Links:
Main site for moxnme
Twitter

Crafty Business: Heavenly Princess

2011-05-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

While a lot of online sellers tell me that they've been crafting all their life, most of them have 20 years or more of their craft under their belt. This week on Crafty Business, we're chatting with Jordan Newhouse of Heavenly Princess, who shows us that younger people can also find success in the crafty business world.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
My grandmother's sister is an avid seamstress, and with no granddaughters of her own, she decided to teach me. I learned the basics from her and got addicted to Bernina sewing machines and the rest is history!

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
After seeing the matching dresses I made for myself and my sisters, a friend commissioned me to make some for her daughter. I was 12 years old at the time. After that, word got out and I kept making things for friends and friends of friends. Eventually, I decided to focus my work and go through all the red tape of starting an official business.

~ At 17, it can be tough to run a business and keep up with school - how do you manage to stay on top of everything?
I'm actually nearly 19 now, (I think I got that corrected on my website) and so I don't have to keep up with school anymore. I was fortunate to be home schooled, so my schedule was very flexible when I first started sewing to sell. Time management is something I am trying to be better at, and staying away from the internet is a big part of it. I am crazy about information, and there's just so much out there!

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
All the encouraging words I have gotten from friends and strangers, as well as knowing I'm using the talents God has given me.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Staying organized!

~ Do you think that being a business owner at such a young age has been beneficial?
Once again, I was home schooled and as I got older, I relied less on my parents and more on myself as teacher. It was a very natural transition to work for myself. My dad has been very supportive and helps me with the "hard stuff" (paperwork, yuk). I think it has been beneficial in that I must be responsible, getting orders finished and shipped, etc. People are relying on me! Another benefit is just having the opportunity. When I get older, I want to be a stay-at-home-mom, and that may or may not leave room for my business.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Stay passionate. Do what you love. Even if you think you could make more money doing alterations and people tell you you should do alterations, don't do it if you can't stand alterations! (sorry, preaching to myself here ;)

Other Links:
While all of these can be accessed from her main site, here's a few places to find Jordan...
Zibbet Shop
Twitter
Blog

Flash Promo Wednesday

2011-05-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is something a little new starting up on Zibbet, where anyone that agrees to join in helps promote Zibbet and individual shops by promoting each other. The idea is to share items as well as shops, blogs, and FB Pages, to help everyone get more exposure. I love the idea of promoting other people, as I know it will help me in the end, so I decided to jump in.

If you get a few minutes in your day, stop in and check out each of these shops. A lot of them also have blogs and FB Pages (I'll be posting those links on my FB page throughout the day, so watch for those) that you can follow as well, if you like. But now, on to the list!

Lori's Styling Hair Stuff
Hair bows and clippies for your little one - LOTS to pick from! Some might even look good in your hair... :)

Mimi and Colette - Stitched and Crocheted, for you, your pet, your home
Towels, reusable swiffer refills, pet collar slipcovers, market bags, neck coolers, washcloths and more! And that is just the tip of this crafty iceberg. So many useful things!

On Mommy's Apron - For Mom, Baby, and Home
Aprons, Kitchen stuff, Nursing covers, Throw Pillow covers, Baby Quilts, and Notecards. All with a fun, flirty and modern style!

Sky Jewelry
Jewelry handcrafted with beads, sterling silver, gold and silver metal, in simple yet elegant designs, with a wide range of colors and styles, to suit every occasion.

StrawberryFields - Art, Jewelry, Beads and More
The banner/name says it all!

POP Embroidery - for Personalized Gifts that POP!
Custom embroidery on just about anything you can imagine... Plus, check out her original design, the key strap!

Nicole's Visions - Visions of Life through Photography
Some gorgeous photography used to create some really unique gift ideas. (PS, this is my mom)

Dream With Me
More gorgeous photography!

Crafty Business: Efling Creations

2011-05-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan of fantasy and geeky goodness, then you're in for a treat this week on Crafty Business! Come for a stroll through the forest of Imagination and join me for a spot of tea with Meri Greenleaf, the mastermind behind Elfling Creations.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I've always been crafty; in school I took as many art classes as I could, eventually finding my niche in pottery. After I graduated high school I went a few years without doing anything more artsy than a few drawings here and there, but that all changed when I decided I wanted a Hufflepuff scarf about five (six?) years ago. My best friend's mom taught me how to crochet then, and after a slow start trying to learn from a lefty, I haven't looked back. Since then I've become a sort of jack of all trades, master of none- besides crochet, I sculpt polymer clay, hand-spin yarn, weave chainmaille, embroider, hand sew, and make ear cuffs, earrings, hemp jewelry, geeky keychains... I have a short attention span, so I'm constantly jumping from craft to craft and learning new ones.

Someday I'll get back into pottery, but that will have to wait until I have room for the supplies I need for it. Until then, I'm sticking with more portable crafts. And I never really got into drawing, despite that being the craft that bridged the gap, now that I think about it.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
One of my friends had found Etsy years ago (early '07) and I think she mentioned that I should try selling my art there- back then I was only crocheting wristbands and making simple beaded earrings, so those were what I started with in my shop. I rarely make those things anymore, so go figure!

~ Being that you enjoy so many different kinds of crafts, there has to be at least one you call your favorite... So, what is your favorite thing to make?
One that's my favorite... oh man, don't make me choose! ;) Probably what I enjoy making most are plushies- the crocheted dolls. I don't generally sell many of them, but I have made a *lot* for friends as gifts and those are the things I get the most joy out of creating because I know they're going to a good home. So much love and time and creativity goes into those plushies! As a geek, my favorite of those are when I get to turn my friends' and my own D&D characters into dolls. I think at this point I've made about a dozen of those.

~ Do you have something that is your least favorite to make?
Least favorite to make... okay, that would also fall under crochet, oddly enough: I really dislike making clothing. I don't have the attention span for large projects like that and I *hate* following patterns. With dolls, there's instant gratification as you can see them coming along. Only so much you can get excited about with a sleeve. ;)

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Learning new kinds of art and meeting (okay “meeting”, since they're online) other artists. I've made some awesome crafty friends over the years!

~ What's been the hardest part?
The business side of things. Creating things is so much fun, but photographing, editing photos, trying to come up with creative listing descriptions, then trying to get the word out so people can find you? Not nearly as fun as the creative process!

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Make what you want to make- create to make yourself happy, not others. There will be people out there interested in what you make, even if you think you're the only person who would want it. Trust me on this; I started making my cartilage chain earrings on a whim when I wanted something to connect between my piercings, then decided “What the heck?” and started listing a few, not thinking anyone would be interested, and they've become my best selling item. So follow your heart and put your love into what you make- and strive to be different.

Other Links:
Main Site
Etsy Shop
Blog
Facebook

Samples done, what next?

2011-05-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Well, as of yesterday, all my samples are complete and mailed off. Took me much longer than I had originally planned, but it's finally done. Now, I just hope it brings me sales.

This batch, the biggest, went off to The Sample Z Box, for inclusion in the May boxes (which go on sale tomorrow, 15 May). Any that are left will be added to the June Boxes (which will be available 15 June). If you are interested in sampling some fantastic Zibbet shops, consider buying a box - the cost is $18, which covers shipping within the US. Shipping outside the US is reasonable as well. To catch a glimpse of what is in the boxes, join us on Facebook, Blogger, and YouTube.

The other batches I made, each a bit smaller, went out to 3 wonderful ladies from Pagan Packs. I'm really hoping to reach more pagans, because I enjoy making pagan-themed items, and I know they will do well in my shop... especially once I start making them with reclaimed wood.

Now that this project is finally complete, though, I am feeling a bit lost... There are plenty of things to do, but I can't decide what to do next.... Not sure if I want to burn something new for the shop, crochet something else, or jump right in and figure out the next set of samples... Maybe I should just take a couple days off from business thought, so I can focus on kicking this cold that creeped in. What do you do once you've completed a big project?

Crafty Business: Clay Art by Daresa

2011-05-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

The joy of sharing stories on Crafty Business is that you get to hear about people that found their niche, some great product that really takes off, and the success that comes along with it. Come meet Daresa Brenner of Clay Art by Daresa who has done just that.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I started working with polymer clay in 2002, just because I was interested in learning a new craft. I started out making little figurines and beads just from my imagination. Then I started collecting books and looking online to learn different techniques with polymer clay. I have been making jewelry & accessories, figurines, photo holders & business card holders, ornaments, magnets & more. And now I am working on my first collectibles line of Lucky Bugs. :-)

~ Care to tell us a bit about your Lucky Bugs?
I actually started making polymer clay ladybugs last summer and listed the few that I had left for sale on Zibbet. They seemed to become popular instantly, so I decided to kick it up a notch by calling them Lucky Bugs and designed a couple of more unique bugs to sell. Then had the grand idea of holding a Lucky Bug Design Idea contest on Zibbet where some of the fellow Zibbeter submitted their design ideas. I created some of the designs they came up with and then opened up the discussion for voting. Flo the Garden Bug was the winner and Sandy Beach and Patriotic Angel of Love were very close runners up. I have also expanded the Lucky Bug Collectibles line into lapel pins and earrings for sale too.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I have been selling my craft from time to time during the past few years. I decided to try to focus on selling my items full time within the past year. I have been told by many people that I need to have my own shop. So, I decided that selling my work online would work out the best for me.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
I would say it is difficult to really pinpoint a best part of my craft business journey. I always enjoy the reaction that I get from people when they see my work. I have also enjoyed having my shops on Zibbet and being involved in the Zibbet community. I enjoy all of the interaction and all the wonderful support.

~ What's been the hardest part?
I believe sometimes it is difficult for me to find time to actually work on an inventory. I have mainly worked on custom orders during the past few months. I'm not complaining at all about having the orders to work on. I am a stay-at-home mom too, so my craft revolves around my children and keeping up with household chores. That's probably the main reason I have no time to work on the inventory like I want to.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Keep promoting yourself, hand out business cards everywhere you can and include extras in your orders. The best way to promote yourself is by word of mouth through others. And don't give up.... it takes at least 3-5 years to grow and establish a good return customer base.

Other Links:
Main Zibbet
Lucky Bugs shop
Blog
Facebook
Twitter

Additional information:
Daresa recently started collaborating on a project with Christy of EWEniqueparties by PartyPeople. Daresa is designing polymer clay cake toppers, placecard holders and other party favors to match the designs of Christy's party invitations and supplies. It is going to be an ongoing collaboration, with new additions coming in the near future. So far, Daresa has done the Ladybugs, Monster Splash Bash, Mod Monkey, Pirate and Minnie Mouse themed items to go with Christy's party supplies. They put links up in their descriptions to each other's shops to guide the customers to the other creations.

Mass-produced Handmade....

2011-05-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

Seems like an oxymoron, doesn't it? "Mass-produced" and "handmade" just don't fit together... but in this case, I see it as appropriate.

See, I'm making samples for a few different groups and people. And I decided that instead of making a bunch of different ones, I would just use this as another opportunity to work on advertising, marketing, and getting my name/logo out there. What I did last time was a bunch of keychains with the Dragon logo on one side, with "Breath of the Dragon" on the back. This time, I'm doing more of those, but I didn't have too many wood pieces, so I decided to do something else that's small and fairly easy to make - magnets. I'm making a bunch of rectangle magnets (3" x 2") with the Dragon logo and the business name on it. This can then be placed in a prominent place where the recipient can see it on a regular basis and remember my name (same concept with the keychains).

The reason I call this 'mass-produced' is because this time around, I've made 60 keychains and 80 magnets. So I'm working them assembly-line style. First I drilled holes and sanded as needed. Then I ran through and traced the design to each piece of wood. Next, I burn each piece. After all the pieces are burned, I can spray sealant on them (hopefully in the next day or so). Then I can put the finishing touches on them (chain and split ring, or magnetic strip as applicable). Once the final product is complete, then I can move on to packaging them up, writing out coupon codes, and sorting them for shipping.

I will be sending about 40 total pieces to the Sample Z Box, for inclusion in the May box (and probably some in June's as well). Those go on sale May 15th - keep your eyes peeled so you can grab one right away! Then I'll be sending some to 3 of the Pagan Packs members who will be handing them out almost immediately.

Oh, one last thing. I might, keyword MIGHT, be doing some samples for The Little Black Box. I just have to figure out something a bit cheaper and easier to do, because if it's taking me over a week to do 60 keychains and 80 full-size magnets, I will be spending more time making samples than doing any other work for the business... and I'm not sure I can afford that just yet... I would love to send in something more than just a business card with a coupon, something that I burned, something that serves a purpose and displays my talent at the same time, while letting the customer know what I can do. So at this point, any suggestions are welcomed. Thoughts I've already had include smaller magnets, book-thongs (a bookmark of sorts (ribbon, fabric, etc) with wood-burned charm on the end), wine glass charms, etc. All of these could be made on the same wood pieces I use for keychains or cell charms. But I was hoping for more ideas... What's something small, useful, and can be made of wood, that I could use to advertise what I do? Round-TUITs, perhaps? LOL

Because of the work I've been doing on these samples, and with more hours at the paying job, I have to post-pone my "Crafty Business" post this week. Forgive me... I hope to have one up next week, though, for sure.

Crafty Business: Pizzaz Glaz

2011-04-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

This week on Crafty Business, we're taking a look at the thought "it's never too late to learn something new" with Nancy Herzog of Pizazz Glaz.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I actually got interested in painting while I was at a large craft show where someone was selling their painted items. I kept looking at them & just felt a calling to try this. I had never painted before, so I bought a book & self taught myself, and from there it has just kept going. I love to paint & create.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I decided I wanted to try selling because I had many compliments from family & friends, so I started at a small craft show. I kept trying more things & decided to try painting on glass & here I am. My one son, who is a natural artist said, "Mom, you have developed your own style" and he loves what I do. That makes me feel very good!

~ What is your favorite thing to make? Least favorite?
My favorite thing to make, hmmm, that's hard. I like doing so many things, I really enjoy making signs & love to paint on vintage items alot. To be honest, I don't think I have a least favorite. Sometimes my brain doesn't want to do what I want it to & I have an off day!

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
I think that one of the best parts of my journey has been some of the people I have met & come in contact with. There are wonderful crafters & artisans all around, it's always nice to visit & learn from others.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part is trying to sell your items & finding places you can market them. Trying to keep up with your craft, marketing etc. I also sell my items at a shop that sells all handmade/handcrafted items from local artists called Under the Green Umbrella.

~ What networking methods have you found work best for you?
I think Facebook is a great way to network. I have a fan page at http://bit.ly/9MRStu . I also tweet a lot, Stumble & am on Linked In. I really think that the Promotions forum on Zibbet is great & people are so wonderful about helping to put your shops out there.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
My suggestion to other crafters is to not give up, if you love what you do keep going! Somedays it seems very hard & you wonder why you are doing it. I will say what my other son told me "Mom keep going, don't give up" & he is right.

Other Links:
Facebook
Twitter
Second Zibbet Shop
Etsy

I also have my painted pieces at:
Under the Green Umbrella
409 N. James St.
Rome, NY
A great little shop full of only handmade, handcrafted items from local people!

Crafty Business: Scent By An Angel

2011-04-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

This week on Crafty Business, I'm chatting with a friend from right here in Wenatchee. Samantha Angel was part of the group of crafters collectively known as "Creative Impressions" for about a year - all local crafters, joined together to share the cost of vendor space while helping each other out. The group kinda fell apart in the last couple years, but we still keep in touch as friends. So today I bring you Samantha's business, Scent By An Angel.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
By accident mostly…lol. I started selling a popular candle who touted the soy factor which I thought was really great. Then I started researching more and more on how soy candles are made and how they can call these supposed natural soy candles just that when they combine them with paraffin with other not so natural ingredients. So I decided to try my hand at making my own 100% soy candles. At first it was difficult because I didn’t know anything about it at all and what I learned was from the internet. It was very much of trial and error but I really think that made me love it that much more because I could create an a scented candle the way I wanted it. I don’t like it when candles tunnel (when the wax on the sides of the container doesn’t melt as the candle burns down) or when the wick burns itself out. I found that many candles I would buy in the stores had this problem. Those popular candles I started selling in the beginning were great but they were expensive and not 100% soy. So that led me to making my own and before long my friends and family were telling me how great my candles were and I should start selling them. And here I am.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
Well when I started I was a stay-at-home mom and with the urging of friends and family decided that if I could make a go of it I could help to contribute to our family with what I love doing.

- How has being a stay-at-home mom compliment or conflict with being a craft business owner?
I love the flexibility of being able to do my crafts on my own time. It’s so much better than punching a time clock. I’m able to work around my son’s schedule pretty well but sometimes it is hard keep up with the marketing aspect of it. There are only so many nap hours…lol.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Meeting and working with people I would never have met otherwise.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Promoting my business online and just trying to figure out how to gain exposure.

- Have you been more successful selling in person or online? Why do you think that is?
So far I have done better selling in person. Well, for me I think it is easier to talk to people in person about my candles and let them see, smell and touch them than to market online. But I’m working on that as well…slowly but surely.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Get together with other small business crafters. Working together brainstorming projects or just learning from one another has been amazing for me. Some people have been in the crafting business for a long time and are very willing to share their knowledge. It was so helpful for me because I had never done crafting before and I’m still learning so much everyday from other crafters.

Other Links:
Etsy Shop
Facebook Page

Mixing Business with a Message

2011-04-16T01:12:00.000-07:00

I'm at a crossroads, guys... and I'm not sure if I even need to be here, but I am.

For those that don't know, I opened a shop last year for Turn Peace Around - handmade items sporting a flipped peace sign. The message I'm trying to spread with it is that the original peace sign was drawn as a symbol of despair, and we should be using a more positive image to represent Peace. Flipping the 'arms' to appear raised connects the idea of peace with many different positive symbols and feelings throughout various cultures.

While this is a great message to spread, it has come to my attention that unless I am cramming it down everyone's throat, it won't ever really catch on. The peace sign is over 50 years old.... who really wants to change it now? I thought that by having a shop of handmade items, I could help spread this message while making a little money for my efforts.

But that's not happening.

I'm starting to wonder if I'm not the right kind of person to be pushing the message. I mean, I can't live and breathe it, so how can I encourage others to do that? It's a great idea, but I feel I'm no good beyond that point.

So here I am, torn between trying to spread a message of positive peace or making some money on the side. And sadly, the way things are going, the money side of the battle is starting to win.

I would love to push this idea, and focus on the concept for everything I do (craft shows, etc), but then my pyrography would be put to the wayside. I love both too much to neglect one or the other... and I've put a LOT of effort into building Breath of the Dragon up so far. Again, the question of money comes up - which one will bring in more money?

I know some of you might be thinking... "Why not just do both, and give them both the attention they need?" And my answer to that is my paying job. If I was unemployed, I would have more than enough time to devote to each... but (un)fortunately, I have a part-time paying job to attend 5 days a week. This takes up a lot of my time and energy, much to my dismay...

Is this the part of creating a business where I have to make sacrifices and put out 210% of myself? [In this case, it would be more than one business (hence the extra 100%)...]

I am just not sure if I want to continue to pursue Turn Peace Around as a business... I could use some input, if you have read this far and have a thought on the subject. Feel free to be honest and critical - I need that right now. That's often the difference between dreams and success....

Crafty Business: ARTiBILITY

2011-04-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it takes grit and determination to make your Crafty Business work, but as Anna Sourile of ARTiBILITY shows us this week, it's worth it. And in the end, she can give back to those that have helped her along the way...

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I have been creative all of my life. From crocheting to sewing... drawing to sculpting... photography to digital work. You name it, I have tried it.

I love painting and photography since it lets me capture the beauty that I see through my eyes. It allows me to enhance the colors or create a "feel" with every piece.

Jewelry designing just came naturally. It is a bit like sewing but you get to use tools like hammers, drills, saws and tumblers. I love wire art as well as PMC / ArtClay. This lets you create one of a kind pieces and use a torch. :)

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I was making gifts and things for myself and people started saying to me "How can I get that?" or "Can you make me one?" Then I met a lovely lady Laks - she was also designing pearl jewelry and getting certified through GIA - also her daughter sold on Etsy. We collaborated - did shows together which went fairly well with future orders. So I opened an Etsy shop, Artfire shop (I am one of the original beta testers) and made a website. The fact that we were and still are self employed (construction company) made it more of a necessity as well. I also create to help others through fund raising - support - and featuring caring or disabled / chronically ill artists. We support and donate to Military/Veteran (a US Marine myself), Cancer, Autism, Lupus, MS, Children's & Women's organizations and more.

~ I noticed your site is focused on the jewelry... Is that because you enjoy it more, or because that's what sells the best?
It is mainly because it is the one that takes the least amount of space in the home. And since it has been selling fairly steadily it is what i have stayed with - i am working on jewelry lines that include my art and photography specifically and jewelry made from it. Some of which i have started in glass necklaces. Many of the art items include the help of my husband and son which i have not been able to make time for. Our 5 year old keeps us busy as well.

~ It's awesome that you work with so many organizations and charities. Is there one in particular that means more to you than any other? Why?
The one that I support the most is our Marine Corps League. Being a US Marine veteran is and has been very important to me. It involved helping our community as well as veterans. I have been helping with Toys for Tots for years and knowing we can make a child smile at Christmas time is amazing!. I am currently serving as one of the Officers and want to be able to do more. Another great and very dear organizations to my heart are Lupus and Autism related. I have been struggling with SLE/Lupus for many years and my oldest son with Autism Spectrum Disorder - Asperger's. We try to help others by raising awareness or funds through multiple ways throughout the year.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Working on projects with my 15 year old son that has ASD (Asperger's); he is so creative.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Hardest part is when I am ill - sometimes I don't have the strength or dexterity to hold pliers and forget working a hammer or drill. Keeping this a successful and creative place is a challenge when you fall behind in life and you just want to do the best for your customers - when they just don't know the whole story. Each piece is my heart and soul but even more sweat and tears when I am ill.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Connect with other artists - social media has been especially wonderful as has Link Love on Facebook. Most people think 'Why would I want to feature or connect with another jewelry artist? - They will steal my business.' That is not the case: we HELP one another, not everyone does the same type or style, and we buy supplies in bulk together or from one another.

Other Links:
Facebook
Twitter
Etsy
Artfire
Blog

Getting ready for the Craft Show

2011-04-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a super busy day.... First day off from the grocery store in 7 days, so I had the whole day to work with. Started by getting up 2 hours earlier than normal, so that we had more time to get around. Went to Office Depot for paper (for Ian's soap labels), ink for the printer, glue sticks, and to check out a couple other things. Well, the paper Ian ~~wanted~~ needed was discontinued. So we had to run around town to see if anyone else had it (which they didn't), so we ended up back at Office Depot to buy an alternative.

Next step was for Ian to re-print ALL of his labels, cut them, and glue them onto the bars of soap = very time consuming. But he managed to get it done while other things we going on.

A trip to Arby's for lunch, then Jo-Ann's for yarn, and a local printer to get a quote on business cards. Having coupons for a craft store can be dangerous, especially when you are picking up a new hobby (I've gotten into crochet). But we put limits on how much to get, and behaved.

Then a trip up to mom's house for 'practice setup'. This was the main plan for the day, after all. We know what kind of space we have, and we wanted to play around with tables and grid wall to see how all 3 of us would fit. After a little rearranging, we came up with a great setup that pulls us all together, but still separates each of our businesses. All the while, Ian is cutting and gluing labels... Later, we took a table inside and took turns working with our setup, with the items out on the table. It definitely helped me to see [a] just how much stuff I really do have, an [b] what will work well to fill the table up but still allow all the items to be seen. I think it's gonna look great!

Once Ian was done labeling most of his soaps, he had to weigh them, for pricing purposes. Got through that, and left as much of our product at mom's house as possible. She'll be packing the car with all the stuff on Friday and bringing it to the Senior Center that evening for set-up. We just have to meet her there with anything else we need to bring (signs, tags, any other little stuff).

Came home, and the work didn't stop. Ian finished up the last 3 kinds of soap (labeling and weighing) while I crocheted soap sacks for him with the organic cotton we had picked up from Jo-Ann's earlier. He also got my signs printed for me, and designed and printed tags for me. He then pumped out some 'plain Jane' business cards for himself as well. I think it was almost 2am when we went to bed finally. But that's normal for us.... :)

So, what's left? For me, I need to cut my tags apart, punch holes and tie on the string, so that I can price the items Friday night. I think all that's left then is to make sure I have all the little things I need and bring them to set-up Friday night. I believe Ian is focused on pricing today, along with getting his Zibbet shop up and running again.

It almost feels surreal, like we got so much done yesterday, and there isn't much left.... so what are we forgetting? LOL Oh, I know, we've got things around the house to do - like do laundry, make bread, buy food... I think I'll work on that today... Tomorrow we'll get haircuts and check for finishing touches on our stuff. Then it's GO time!

I'd add a picture of my practice set-up, but I think we left the camera at mom's house last night....

Crafty Business: Yummy Cuppy Crafts

2011-04-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

While there are tons of wonderful jewelry crafters out there, we can't ignore all the other amazing crafts. This week, we're talking to Kimberly Turner of Yummy Cuppy Crafts, who had a great idea and rolled with it - unique and fun cupcake wrappers! Sometimes all it takes is one great idea to get a handmade shop noticed...

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I grew up with a crafty mom. We would do all kinds of crafts at home, decorate cookies, and things like that. I really got into crafts after my husband got deployed. After our kids were tucked in bed, the house was real quiet in the evenings. So to fill that void, I began making my own cupcake wrappers and started selling them online. And from there, my interest in all sorts of crafts just grew!

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I was chatting in a cake baking forum, and we were talking about how expensive cupcake wrappers were. That night I created my own wrappers and soon got a request from one of the forum members to make her some for a vacation bible school! And the rest is history.

~ How did you come up with the name for your shop/business?
When I first opened my shop, my only products were my cupcake ‘cuppies’! I figured it was unique and sounded ‘fun’!

~ Do you feel that being a military spouse has helped in the success of your business? How?
Being a military spouse means meeting new people ALL THE TIME, and it has really helped me share my crafts with new friends at every new duty station we go to! Having a shop like this is nice because I also don’t have to start from scratch each time we move! I can pick up where I left off once we get settled! No job hunting for me!

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
The best part about my craft business is that I have the flexibility to stay at home and raise my 4 children. And at the same time, I am able to do something I love, and although I may not make enough money from that to support our family, it’s enough to support my hobbies! (I leave making the big bucks up to my hubby!)

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part about my craft business is sometimes finding the time to create more things! I have my own craft room in our house, and sadly, I don’t get to spend as much time there as I’d like.

~ Besides cupcake wrappers, what is your favorite thing to make? Why?
I love hand-painting things, so I adore completing the custom nesting dolls and military duty station blocks! Each military member has a different story, no one’s story is the same, so I love to be able to help them tell their story through my custom crafts and let them share it with others!

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Don’t hesitate to share your creations with your closest friends and family. Sometimes they can be your best customers and advertisers! Word of mouth is so powerful!

Other Links:
Blog
Facebook
Twitter
Etsy

Crafty Business: Pretty Twisted Jewelry

2011-03-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for another jewelry artist in Crafty Business, so this week, I bring you some gorgeous antiqued silver jewelry made by Kim Schnell of Pretty Twisted Jewelry.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
Crafts have always been my addiction. It started at a young age with my addiction to latch hook rugs and paint by numbers, then crocheting and needlepoint, and eventually sewing. About 10 years ago I started quilting and made lots of baby quilts for baby showers, and quilts for wedding showers, too.

Back then I was also experimenting with making jewelry. I really love nicely made, unique handmade jewelry and would always buy it at shows, for myself and to give as gifts to others. I liked it so much, I was inspired to start creating some of my own designs.

Then in January of 2007, my mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She bravely fought it for 3 years and, sadly, passed away in May of 2010. Needless to say, we spent a lot of time in hospitals and doctor’s offices during those 3 years. One of her stays in the hospital was 7 weeks long.

I would bring my jewelry supplies with me to her appointments or when I would stay with her in the hospital. We would come up with designs and then I would make them for her to give to the nurses and staff. My mom was a very giving person, and she loved to hand out my jewelry, as did I. All these people were such great support for my mom, and were truly amazing with her. This was her way of giving something back to show her appreciation to them. This is when I stopped quilting and really started making jewelry. It was portable and faster to make than quilts, so we were able to give more away. We also made jewelry for raffle baskets for Relay for Life. We made pink jewelry for breast cancer and purple jewelry for pancreatic cancer.

Eventually, during that time, I started making jewelry to give away to family, friends, teachers, etc. and it kind of took off from there. I started getting inquiries about where they could buy it, where their friends could buy it, and requests for custom orders. It was very flattering, and it still is to this day. This is what gave me the idea to start a website.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
Honestly, if I could afford to do so, I would make my jewelry for the pleasure of making it and give it away. But unfortunately, the reality is supplies get expensive, and if I don’t sell, I don’t have money to make more.

I have friends and family that have been amazingly supportive and encouraged me to branch out and really focus on selling. After lots of research and preparation, and quite honestly, fear of failure and rejection in the cyber world, I finally took the leap and started an online shop in October of 2010. I started at my first website at Etsy, but just recently moved to Zibbet. Now that I've been selling, I really want to create a successful business.

~ What’s been the best part of your craft business journey?
The best part of my craft business journey has definitely been all the people I have met. There are so many nice people out there making their beautiful crafts and selling them. I have also met great people who appreciate handmade items and are supporting our love for creating by buying our designs. Those people are priceless and I am very thankful for them.

~ What’s been the hardest part?
Now that I am involved in selling my jewelry, I get frustrated that I am not getting my name out there enough. When it comes to promoting my website, I don’t feel like I know enough about online marketing. I can’t wrap my head around SEO’s, Google, AdWords, Twitter, etc. I’ve got the Facebook thing down, but only because that is more personal and social to me than the other venues. I’m more of a social person than a business minded person, which I think hurts me now that I am trying to create a business with my jewelry. I have figured out that I have no business sense whatsoever, but I’m working on that.

~ What’s your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Only do it if you love it. It’s easier to make than to sell. This is not a business to get into if you’re only looking to make money, you have to believe in what you’re making in order to sell it. At least that’s how I feel.

Other Links:
Facebook
Twitter

Kim would also like me to share with everyone her brother's Relay for Life page. Vince and his wife (shown in the middle of this picture) walk each year. This year is even more meaningful, as Kim & Vince's mother (shown on the right) passed in May 2010 after battling Pancreatic cancer. If you would be so kind, they would appreciate your support.

Picking up Crochet

2011-03-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a long time coming, and I finally did it. I am learning crochet.

I say it's been a long time coming because ever since I bought this water bottle holder from a new age shop in the near-by tourist town of Chelan, I've gotten nothing but compliments on it. Everyone asks if I made it, and I finally decided that I was going to learn how to replicate it. So I bought a set of crochet hooks, a skein of grey yarn, and started searching online.

Within a few hours, I understood Chain stitches, Single and Double crochet stitches, and how to turn my work. Then I learned how to make a circle, and did it repeatedly. The best part was that I wasn't wasting yarn - I could just pull the stitches back out and start over if I wanted to.

Alrighty, got the basics down. Now, to find a pattern and make sense of it. Oh boy, that was fun. At first it was just a bunch of letters, numbers and spaces. Eventually, though, I decoded it, and was like "this is super easy!" So I started with a pattern for a simple water bottle holder (since that was the original goal anyhow) - this one. After some more practice making the circle for the bottom, I felt pretty confident about it. I think it took me a total of 4 hours, at most, to get the whole base done... then another hour or so for the strap.
As you can see, I never got a crochet needle to attach them together... LOL

With what I had already learned so far, I figured it was time to start my own pattern. I understood how the basic stitches worked now, and I was starting to understand how certain stitches looked when completed, so I put that together to get the look I was wanting. Since I carry around the big SmartWater bottle, the basic one would be too small. But I wanted to make one that would fit big or regular bottles (versatility is good!). So I modified the base to be flexible in size. Then the netting part - I wanted it to be more dense than the original bottle holder I have, but I wanted it more spread out than the first pattern I used, so I added in some stitches to get it the way I liked.

The hardest part, I think, was the top. I had to come up with a way to condense 60 stitches around back down to 36.... At first it looked weird, but once I was done, it seemed fine. So, a couple rows to give a solid top piece, then on to the strap. This time, I wanted a stronger strap, so I went the opposite direction as the first pattern I saw. And at first, I thought I hadn't done enough rows, when in reality, I had done way too many. The weight of the bottle stretched the yarn more than I realized it would, so the strap is twice as long as I was hoping for. Until I get around to shortening it, I just tied a knot in the top for now.

There you have it - my start with crochet. It was fun to learn, and certainly very easy for me to pick up. My boyfriend is picking it up, too; he wants to make socks. We'll see how far he gets... LOL I'm looking forward to making more stuff, but I think I will stick with the bottle holders for a while, seeing as so many people are interested in it.

Crafty Business: Clarify Wearable Art

2011-03-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

When you can take what you love, combine it with years of experience in the trade, and add the internet, you can create the perfect Crafty Business! Claranne Knittel of Clarify Wearable Textile Art has done just that, taking years of experience in the garment industry and using it to come up with unique designs you won't find anywhere else!

~ How did you get started with your craft?
My mother started me sewing when I was 12 or 13 years old. I quickly developed a passion for the craft and attended Colorado State University where I received a Bachelors of Arts degree in Fashion Design. Using that degree I began working in the garment industry and spent 30+ years working for major garment manufacturers doing everything from Pattern-making to Quality Control to Product Development. Among the companies at which I worked early in my career were Eddie Bauer and White Stag. In 1993, I was one of eight persons who left Sierra Designs to found Mountain Hardwear.

I started machine knitting about 10 years ago after developing a sweater line for Columbia Sportswear. I found this was a fun way to produce interesting sweaters and tops, especially cotton sweaters suitable for a warmer climate or to wear when you just want a little something extra to stay comfortable in a cool office or home.

Eventually I left the corporate apparel industry for the chance to develop clothing lines for individuals, not the masses, but using some of the best practices I had picked up while working in the trade. Some years ago I wholesaled my products to select boutiques and had another sewer work for me, but decided to focus on very limited production runs of unique designs, and now my products are available only online, or at one of the two local sales of handmade crafts I do each year. I personally do all the work on my products from starting the design to sewing on the last button. I hand-dye and paint the fabrics in some of my designs. I do not weave my own fabric nor spin my own yarn, although I have been tempted.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I love to design garments. I love to sew. I love to knit. I love to crochet. These are things I need to do. By selling what I produce, (a) it brings in money to cover the cost of more fabric, more yarn, etc., and (b) as products ship out to customers it makes room for more things to come off my sewing and knitting machines.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Getting to make things.

~ What is your favorite thing to make?
I especially enjoy making skirts because they offer a large, unbroken area on which much may be done to individualize them. One example is a Six Gore Boot Skirt with a black and gold zigzag pattern wandering around the skirt just above the hemline. I have added decorative features to many of my skirts with stitching, embroidery, or contrasting or complementing fabric.

~ Least favorite?
It would be easy to say that if I don't like doing it, I just don't do it. But that's not true. One thing I learned during my years working as a product developer and in garment factories doing quality control is that there are some things that just have to be done, and done right, to produce a quality garment. Attaching buttons is one of those things that is tedious, but I hand sew all my buttons because I know there is really no good shortcut. They can be sewn on by machine, and most machine sewn buttons will probably be okay, but none will be as secure and durable as a button sewn on by hand.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Promoting my work does not come naturally. I much prefer to be designing and making things rather than marketing. I have no blog, do not tweet, and spend little time on Facebook. Still, I do enjoy the Zibbet.com forums and have found Stumbleupon a fun way to share some great things produced by other crafters.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Do what you love to do. I'm sure you will see almost everyone say that, but it is true. Doing what one loves can help you to get through the frustrating times we all have when it seems like no one has found your shop, no one appreciates what you produce.

Other Links:
Zibbet shop
ArtFire shop
Etsy shop
Facebook

Crafty Business: Beaded Bazaar

2011-03-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

I decided to go with someone rather new to online selling this week for Crafty Business, because sometimes you just need the newbie's take on things to remind you what it's like being fresh in the business. So today I present to you Joy Geoghegan, of BeadedBazaar!

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I started beading when I became a stay-at-home mum. It started as wanting to repair a couple of necklaces, as money was tight. Instead of restringing the jewelery I took it to bits and made something new on nylon thread. It was very basic but I really enjoyed dismantling things to make something new. It grew from there, buying bits on Ebay, visiting my local craft shop and taking all my jewelery to bits to make new things. The first thing I made was a necklace and bracelet set for my Mum, which I followed from a "recipe" in a magazine. I liked that I could make a few changes to make it my own and when it had finished it looked lovely.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
After I'd made a few more pieces, both my Mum and my boyfriend suggested that I should try selling a few things to see how it went. Now I've set up an internet shop, I'm addicted to it!

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
I'm still relatively new as far as using beading as my business, but the best part so far has to be my Mum reporting back that people are commenting on the pieces she wears while she's out and about. I also like just how many people look at your work, although only one sale to a friend so far, I'm sure my first "real" sales and the shop growing will be wonderful.

~ What's been the hardest part?
I think the hardest part is getting motivated. Recently, personal things in my day to day life have been very difficult to deal with and I did struggle with the idea of just selling everything and not bothering anymore. I had a very low patch and it took a lot of motivation to get started again. It took me time to realize that my beading isn't affecting anything else, its my time when my daughter is asleep and that if I concentrate, I can have a couple of hours not worrying about anything else than finishing the necklace I'm working on.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
My suggestion to fellow crafters would be make things that you love. If you do, then hopefully buyers will be able to see that love, and want it too.

Other links:
Twitter

Crafty Business: Enchanted Craft

2011-03-08T16:49:00.000-08:00

This week on Crafty Business, we're talking with Nicole Angell who runs Enchanted Craft with her mother, Gigi. Nicole does the painting, polymer clay, sewing and jewelry, and her mom does the crochet and knitted items. Their shop is full of fun items for anyone that enjoys sci-fi, magic, and fantasy. Take a look around, you might like it :)

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I have been a crafter since I was 2 and my Mom put a pair of plastic scissors in my hands and gave me some paper and glue. However my more serious endeavors, such as painting, really started when I was around 14 years old. I took art classes in high school, but even then my abilities far outstripped my poor teachers (2 different ones). Fairly quickly they gave up having me work with the class and just handed me the keys to the supply room saying "go teach yourself something". I taught myself ceramics, screen printing, painting murals, sculpture, wood burning, block printing, weaving, spinning - anything that was in that storage room. I painted Mardi Gras floats in Mobile Alabama (the HOME of Mardi Gras - pre-dates New Orleans by 50 yrs) from 1994 to 2006.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I sold my first item when I was in High School, but until recently I just couldn't fit selling into everyday life. Now I hope to make it my full time job.

~ How did you decide to open shop with your mom?
My Mom and I now live together since our husbands have passed away. It was natural to mix our hobbies together into our shop. We have about the same likes and dislikes so our shop reflects that. However my mom thinks the severed fingers is creepy.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
Helpful people giving tips in my Facebook group 'Promoting All Good Things Handmade'- like trying Zibbet!

~ What's been the hardest part?
Finding ways to promote my shop(s).

~ How do you currently promote your shop, and which would you say has been the most effective?
I promote on facebook, stumble, and a friend occasionally tweets. I have a few sci-fi facebook pages I promote, too, and they jump on certain items we make. My own website brings in a tiny bit of traffic and occasionally I have worked with a blogger- but bloggers with a large following take a while to 'post' on my items. I'm waiting for 'Mommatoldme' to post my totes right now.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Get a camera you can leave hooked up to your computer all the time- downloading pics eats up A BUNCH of TIME!

Other Links:
Main Website, showcasing her art.
Etsy shop
Promoting All Good Things Handmade Facebook group
Enchanted Craft Facebook page

Making room in the shop

2011-03-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

Alrighty, folks. I've got plenty of new pieces I want to list in my shop, but it's so full right now that there isn't any room. So I have to take some things down.

This weekend only (Friday - Monday, 4-7 March), all currently listed magnets will be BOGO! That's right! Buy one, get one FREE! Some are marked half price, too. Buy 2 half priced magnets, and you're getting 2 for less than the price of just one!

After this sale, I'll be taking down any remaining Breast Cancer Awareness pink ribbon items. They will be back in the shop in mid-September, just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Coming soon, lots of new magnets and a couple more boxes.... Help me make room!

Crafty Business: POP Embroidery

2011-03-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm chatting with Teresa Riley of POP Embroidery, formerly known as PaperOnParade. She's still a new friend to me, but she isn't new to crafting or selling. A new author for IndieSmiles, Teresa has plenty of experience and a super-positive attitude to share with everyone.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
My Grandmother taught me to sew when I was 8. At 10 I was using a sewing machine with ease. I believe I was born to sew and design all types of crafts.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I wanted to share my designs with others and was thrilled when others enjoyed my work. If I was going to craft full time, I needed an income.

~ Did you have to leave a regular job to pursue your craft business? Or have you been trying to turn your craft into profit from the beginning?
When our 3 children were babies I was blessed enough to be home with them and sewing was my full time job. As if raising 3 children wasn't a full time position!:) Over the years of moving with the Air Force, my sewing was always the extra income we needed until I found a full time job at our new location. Now hubby is retired from the military and it seem to be "my turn" to seek my dream job...Of course that is making embroidery my full time business.

~ What made you change medium from scrapbooking to embroidery? Do you think this change was for the best?
We recently moved from GA to NC and during the unpacking of my craft room, the embroidery machine was set up first. I realized how much I missed sewing and embroidery. At that point I knew without a doubt what craft my dream job was going to be....embroidery!

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
The best part of my selling online journey has been the network of crafters sharing their talents and giving hearts. Whether through Zibbet, Etsy, Link Love or other venues, meeting like-hearted people from all over the world has re-kindled my love of crafts and people.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Remembering the product I design has quality whether sales are good or not.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Stayed focused on your goals and believe in yourself!

Other links:
Facebook
Etsy Shop
Twitter Feed
POP Embroidery Blog

Crafty Business: AmyJosCreations

2011-02-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

This week on Crafty Business, we're talking to Amy Rabold of AmyJosCreations. A fellow Link Love participant on Facebook, it's been a pleasure knowing Amy. With her eclectic mix of handcrafted creations, there's something for everyone in her shop.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
My aunt would crochet, and I would watch her. I picked it up [and] started crafting at the age of 4 yrs old. I then started selling my items when I was 8 yrs old. I started with Crocheting potholders and making little magnets out of pom poms.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
I wanted to make my own money and who will hire an 8 yr old? So why not work for myself

~ Where and how did you start selling your work?
My mom used to take my finished items to her job, and her coworkers would ask for items in custom color combinations. After that I hit the pavement going store to store trying to talk to shop owners or buyers to see if they would like to carry my designs in their shops. After that I did arts & crafts shows, my mens' neckties were juried into a gallery here in San Antonio, and I was featured on the Day to Day Show that used to air here in San Antonio.

I was told I should be in New Orleans with the designs I make so Hubby gave up his job, and we moved to Metairie, LA, in 2004. There, I did several local craft shows and my jewelry was juried into the annual Mothers Day Event held at the Audubon Zoo, where only 10 Jewelry vendors are accepted to participate. Unfortunately, we chose the wrong time to move to Louisiana, because after only a year and a half Hurricane Katrina hit and we permanently relocated back to San Antonio. I was subsequently involved in a car accident that left me unable to do craft shows due to the long hours of sitting and standing so a friend told me about Etsy. I also learned about Artfire, so you can find me online at both sites.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
I think the best part was when my mens neckties and other crafts were featured on the "Day to Day" show, a local TV newscast.

~ What's been the hardest part?
The hardest part was about 18 years ago when I had 6 stores carrying my designs. I had just had a 3rd child (1st son) and he died at 6 weeks old due to SIDS so I had to tell all my clients I was taking time off.

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Listen to your heart and let your passions shine! Make more than 1, especially if it is not a "one of a kind" piece. Now I make 3, 6, or even 12 at a time of my best-selling pieces.

Other Links:
Become a Facebook fan
AmyJosCreations Etsy Shop

Pleasantly surprised

2011-02-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say "Thanks" to everyone who has checked out the Crafty Business series. I know only one has been posted, but I must say, I was pleasantly surprised to see as many readers and comments as I have. I'm not used to so much activity on my blog, and knowing that people are enjoying this encourages me to keep moving forward with it.

Tuesday will be installment #2 of Crafty Business, featuring AmyJos Creations. I've also got at least 4 more prepped and lined up, as well as another handful still sitting in my inbox waiting to be compiled.

I must say, it's a lot of fun meeting these artists and learning about what they do, where they come from, and how they are making it work. Can't wait for everyone to see! May this serve as education and inspiration to all of us small-business crafters out there!

And remember, I'd like to keep doing these as long as I can, so if you are interested in being included, please send an email to sunfire at breathofthedragon dot com with the subject "Blog Interview". Then I will reply to you with a list of questions to get me started.

Crafty Business: Rose Works Jewelry & Gifts

2011-02-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first installment of Crafty Business!

Today, we're featuring a friend of mine, Ruthie Stickney, of Rose Works Jewelry & Gifts. I met Ruthie through the Eastern WA Team on Etsy, of which neither of us are current members now, ironically. She's quite fun to be around, and I am very glad to have met her. It is an honor and pleasure to talk with her on the subject of a craft-centered business.

~ How did you get started with your craft?
I first learned how to make jewelry when I was 14. I dabbled here and there over the years and began to get serious about 4 years ago.

~ What sort of jewelry did you start making originally... and how has it evolved into what we see today?
I was originally taught to do some very basic wire work to make link-style bracelets. I just looked through my shop and realized I haven't done any of these in awhile! Hmm...you may have just inspired me.

From there I learned out to do basic stringing. A little backwards in difficulty level, but there you have it!

One day a gal I was working with found out I like making jewelry and showed me a bead weaving magazine. I fell in love instantly and that has become my passion! I still do quite a few other styles of jewelry, because I'm an ADD crafter, but bead weaving and bead embroidery are my passions now! I'm still pretty new to bead embroidery (in the last year) but I'm learning more all the time.

~ Why did you decide to start selling your work?
My friends and family told me too!

~ Where do you sell your work, and how did you decide to go with that venue?
I'm on both Etsy and Artfire. I started out on Etsy because a friend told me about it. While they have made some changes there I don't appreciate, I have made a lot of friends there who continue to inspire me and be a support, so I will be staying there for the time being.

~ What's been the best part of your craft business journey?
All the people! I've made some incredible friends through this journey and they have meant more to me than I can possibly say.

~ What's been the hardest part?
Insecurity. Selling jewelry is difficult. There are a lot of artists out there selling and because of that it can be hard to get your work noticed. Even though I know that it's really easy for me to slip into the thinking that my work isn't selling at a particular point in time because it's just horrible. Then I remember that there's a lot of jewelry out there, a lot of people have told me it's good, and we're in a bad economy!

~ What's your #1 suggestion to fellow small business crafters?
Find a balance between creating what sells and what you love. If you stop creating things you love then it'll show in your work and it's not worth it.

Other Links:
~ Second Shop, on Etsy
~ Rose Works Jewelry, On Facebook
~ Rose Works Jewelry Blog

Special Bonus!
Ruthie was so honored to be included that she is offering you guys a 10% coupon code valid in either of shops (Etsy or Artfire). Just use Sunfire10 in the coupon section when ordering.

Less crafting, more blogging

2011-02-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been less inclined to create new pieces, after that stretch where I made a whole bunch of new things. Since then, I've backed off a bit on creating, for a couple reasons...

[1] Once I got the new pieces listed on Zibbet, I filled up my shop. Since I have a free account, I can only list 50 items at any one time. So I feel as if I can't make much new stuff until some of the other stuff sells... I mean, I am sure I could keep making stuff, and just 'unlist' some of the closeout items.... but it feels strange to me. If I could warrant it, I'd upgrade so my listing amount is unlimited, but I can't do that, not yet.

[2] Besides not being able to list new stuff, I've also taken to working on my networking. My Facebook page for Breath of the Dragon hit 700 fans today, and my Turn Peace Around page hit 100 fans today. Not sure how I want to celebrate the 700 fans, but I am offering a drawing for a custom painted tote bag for the TPA page... check it out.

Other than Facebook, I've decided to do some cross-promoting here on my blog. I've been featured more than once in other blogs, so I thought it only fair to return the favor and do the same for anyone that is interested. You may have seen me post about this already, and you might have even sent me your interest... The first 2 posts are ready; Look for Rose Works Jewelry on 15 Feb and AmyJosCreations on 22 Feb. I am working on POP Embroidery now (scheduled for 1 March), but wanted to take a break and fill everyone in.

Don't get me wrong, I love creating. I have tons of ideas that I still want to make... but I've put blogging and networking at the top the last couple weeks. Maybe when I get tired of this, and I have a few interviews prepped, I can get back to creating new things...

How do you balance creating with networking and marketing? Seems like I can really only focus on one aspect of this business at a time...

Drumroll please....

2011-02-02T09:48:00.000-08:00

We have our first 2 keychain giveaway winners today!

The winner of Keychain Giveaway A was Art by Belle! Because you won this one, your entries for the second giveaway were tossed out.

For Keychain Giveaway B, the winner was Raige!

Ladies, please contact me with your mailing address and I'll have them out to you tomorrow.

Thanks to everyone who participated so far. Remember, there's still one more blog-related giveaway open (hint: search the blog for "giveaway") - find it and post as required.

The final giveaway is simply this: all orders in my shop between now and the end of February will count as an entry. So get shopping!!

Coming Soon: Crafty Business artist interviews

2011-02-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

I'm starting a new feature here on the blog in mid-February, "Crafty Business". I'll be featuring a different small business crafts-person every week as we discuss turning our hobby craft into a successful business.

If you are interested in being included, please send an email to sunfire-at-breathofthedragon-dot-com with the subject "Blog Interview" and I will send you the questions.

Look for the first one to be posted around 15 February.

Keychain Giveaways!

2011-01-25T00:54:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I told you something big was coming, and here it is! I have 4 Breath of the Dragon keychains to give away, and I finally decided how I'm going to do it. Since there are 4 keychains, I'm having 4 different giveaways. You can enter as many (or as few) giveaways as you want, but be aware that each giveaway has it's own restrictions on how many times you can enter.

Anyone can enter, even people who aren't fans of, or don't already follow, Breath of the Dragon, so invite all of your friends to check this out, too. The more, the merrier!

Giveaway A-- This one's pretty easy; simply comment on THIS blog post with a link back to your favorite item in my shop - one comment, and thus one entry, per person.

Giveaway B-- This one is a little more fun! Share Breath of the Dragon with your friends. It can be an item in the shop, the shop itself, the blog, the business page, or any other venue where you can find us. You can share on FB, twitter, stumble, linked in, or wherever else you network. Each SHARE counts as one entry, but since I am not on all of these sites, you must comment on this other post with a list of what you shared and where you shared it. You can post multiple comments, so don't spam your friends in just one day with all of my links :)

Giveaway C-- Find the hidden give-away post in my blog, and comment on it before 6 Feb. This post will specify what needs to be in your comment - if you don't fully meet the requirements, you won't get the entry.

Giveaway D-- All purchases made from the shop in February (thru 28 Feb) will be an entry for this drawing - make multiple purchases, and you get multiple entries. Based on separate orders, not each item purchased. If you order 3 things at once, you only get 1 entry.

To be eligible for any of the 4 giveaways, you must provide an email address to contact you with your entry.

You can only win one keychain, so if you win one of the earlier giveaways, you lose all entries and your name will be removed from all other giveaways.

These giveaways are open to all persons over the age of 18. There are no location restrictions.
Feel free to contact me with any questions regarding the giveaways. sunfire [at] breathofthedragon [dot] com