Arkansas Artists on Etsy

February Featured Seller - Best Loved Child

2012-01-29T06:59:00.001-06:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Cathy Lane and I,with my husband, started Best Loved Child. I make artistically painted children’s décor and play sets. My parents were ranchers in the wilds of themountain west but I gave up that life when in college I fell in love andmarried a California beach boy. I have astore of knowledge about cattle, farming and wildlife that is only useful nowwhen buying meat at Sam’s or drawing and painting my creations. I’m a wife to one, mom to six andunbelievably 8 amazing kids call meGrandma. 18 years ago my husband’scompany relocated all their operations to Little Rock and we relocated from SouthernCalifornia to beautiful Arkansas where people still ask me where my accent camefrom. I’ve been lucky enough to be doingthe Etsy shop for the last 2 years. WhenI lost my job, (I used to fire people for a living, Then I got fired) I decidedto go for it and have been fortunate to have a supportive husband.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I’m an obsessivereader. I’m very involved with myChurch. In my stay-at-home-mom years Ihad a custom sewing business and I still love to sew, especially for my girlygranddaughters. Hubby and I moved (from 20 miles away) and completely renovateda rental house (I painted or restored, every single surface, inside and outexcept the roof, myself) and we are planning to do another one.

What would be the title of your memoir? Why?

“I Could MakeThat”. I come from a family of terminalDIY souls. Mostly, making thingsyourself was a way to afford things we felt we would never have the money tobuy. It can get out of control. After my daughter’s wedding my sis said weall should be forced to stand in a corner and repeat “catering, catering,catering” until we believe we are capable of hiring one.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I love seeing otherartist’s work. I am very influenced by illustrated children’s books, especiallythose from 1900 through the 1940s.

What does handmade mean to you?

Handmade is a uniqueconnection. The best way I know to express my love is to make you something. My Wrangler jeans were sewn by hand by anunknown someone, but they are not “handmade”. Unlike those jeans, the quilt my greatgrandmother made and the mug I bought from a potter in Washington state, connectme to their makers each time I view or use them. Though neither maker knew me, thesecreations are expressions of love the maker had for someone and/or the love theyhad for their craft. The handmade movement also represents the ultimate “jobcreators”. When we make and sell, weare crafting our own jobs as well as our art/craft and that needs to beacknowledged, supported and celebrated.

Who has been most influential in your craft?

My parents. They never imagined me to be an artist, buttaught me, by their example, that I could learn how to do anything.

When did you know you were an artist/maker?

I always consideredmyself a maker. Everyone I knew was amaker. They made quilts, built houses, planted gardens, sewed clothing, createdjam and welded parts for the clothes dryer. When I was seven, I sewed a yellow cottondress with set in sheer sleeves, a fitted bodice and full skirt for my Barbie. It was hand sewn, by me, from a pattern of myown invention. I was proud, but in myfamily this was not considered remarkable. Becoming an artist took much longer,mostly I think, because I was never exposed to any art education or anyartists. (Don’t get me started on the lack of art education in schools.) I kepttrying to learn to paint and draw (mostly self-taught) and was well into my40’s before I started to dare think “I’m an artist”. The Etsy shop has helpedme validate that label. I loved hearingmy son tell someone recently “my Mom’s an artist”.

How would you describe your creative process?

It’s fueled by doing. I have too many ideas running through myhead. I keep journal/notebook/sketchbooks full of drawings and images Ilove. When I settle on an idea Iresearch photos and images and sometimes take my own photos. My ideas are somewhatvague until I’m doing the actual work of sketching, cutting and painting. As I make an item, ideas come to me of how itcan be improved that I can’t believe I didn’t think of in the planning stage.

If you could peek inside the studio of any artist, designer orcraftsman (dead or alive), who would it be?

Maud and MiskaPetersham. They were an award winning husbandwife team illustrating children’s books from 1917 through the 1960’s. I’m so in love with all their drawings andamazed at how they lived and worked together for so long.

What handmade possession do you most cherish?

I have so many! Topof the list may be my dining table and buffet with hand carving that was madeby a great uncle of mine for another great uncle and aunt. I can’t believe Iscored it over my siblings. I also gotteary eyed hanging some of my kid’s grade school handmade Christmas treeornaments this last Christmas.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

I force myself tofinish whatever I have on the work table. That usually clears the problem. Iget “stuck” trying to solve design problems and the best way, for me, is tojust slog through it. Perspirationreally helps inspiration.

Where would you like to be in ten years?

I’ll be approaching abirthday that many readers would consider Really Old. I very much hope to be: healthy, in a smaller house, still creatingand selling, better known for my work, traveling more, and living closer to theshort people in my life.

Catch up on all of the Best Loved Child items. Etsy Store and Cathy's Profile and Her Blog.

Just a Brief Warning

2012-01-27T11:48:00.002-06:00

Last night my twitter was hacked! Here is the scenario so that others can avoid it as well.

I got a private message from a team member, who I am sure was a victim as well, that said something to the affect of, "some really nasty things are being said about you here (insert link) I can't believe what they said"

I am a pretty self deprecating person and love to laugh at my own insanity, so I go to the link. It asks me to log into twitter, now I am doing this on my phone so I don't think anything of it. I log in and it says sorry you can't do that.

Okay well I am on my phone must be the problem, oh well.

Five minutes later ALL my followers have been sent private messages with the same silly statement. DANG IT ALL! So be warned, and don't get click happy unless you know for sure what is up!

Sharing the Joy!

2012-01-26T08:42:00.000-06:00

We have some really amazing people in our team, and we have been doing featured sellers once a month in order to promote all of our team members to be more successful. We also are having a treasury contest, which we may do maybe every other month or so in order to be the featured seller. We have to have some type of prize, and I think that is a pretty good one!

We have Facebook and Twitter on top of this blog that we hope is keeping team members informed and up to date on a lot of things we and our team members are doing. I personally have followed all team members with Twitter, Liked all the Facebook pages, and followed all the blogs on blogger and Tumbrl. Each morning I try (TRY) to spend at least one hour reading any new blog entries, scanning the twitter feed, and looking at Facebook. I feel like a real geek during this time period, but it helps me stay informed about our team and the amazing things we are all doing.

Our leader Lybly has made her first quilt! It is lovely, see it here. Missy of the Graceful Little Honey Bee is doing a really neat thing with shampoo or I should say the avoidance of shampoo, plus she is expecting! The Twisted Purl is lamenting her lack of blogging, but she is twitterific for sure! We have so many amazing shops in our team, and I love keeping up with all of them, it really give me inspiration for the things we can feature and do as a team!

I have the February Featured Seller selected and her information has been forwarded, so we are excited about that, but she had a great idea! We need a team photographer that makes us all look younger and thinner! Cathryn, I have put the word out now we shall see what happens!

If you want to me March's Featured Seller post your treasury on the team discussion page (there is a thread for the contest) and we will be selecting the winner on the 30th.

Do you Blog? You need to know this!

2012-01-20T14:51:00.001-06:00

It hasn't been very long that I have been aiding in writing the blog for our fantastic team. However I never had one of my own, until this week! So here I spent more time that I expected designing and redesigning the silly thing over the past few days. That was a learning experience in it's own right!

After my first post I was so excited I of course told various friends who blog, and one gave me insight which was news to me. You should always "ping" your blog after new posts in order to bring your blog higher in the search results of a search engine. Now I did a little research to learn what this meant and realized that there are a lot of ways to go about doing this. There is the super computer savvy method which involves uploading code to your blog and things which I have no concept of.

However the super fast way is to use a pinging service. The one I was turned on to was www.pingomatic.com which made me think of a pinball machine. I am sure there is some truth to that analogy as well.

Here is the process:

Step One: Go to www.pingomatic.com you will see a data information page like below.

Step Two: Enter your Blog name and the web page address into the form as shown. The RSS is if you have a feed link to include as well. I do not believe any team members have this yet, but you never know!

Step Three: Next to Common Services in parenthesis is "Check All" click that, and then click each box under Specialized Services. Your entries should look like the photo below.

Step Four: Click "Send Pings >>"

You're done! As I said this is not the only method for achieving this goal, but so far it is the fastest and easiest I have found. If there are other services that you know of, please share so we can forward that information on the the group as well.

This should help bring your blog postings higher in search engine results and as you blog more and ping more you will find more visitors and followers.

Happy Blogging!

New Year - New Adventures

2012-01-16T09:04:00.000-06:00

So here we are 2012! We begin each year with resolutions for weight loss, living healthier, working on our shops, maintaining inventory, and a plethora of other miscellaneous things that arguably we have resolved every year since adulthood.

So I wanted to make a resolution that at least once a week I will post something on our blog from one of our team members. We will have monthly featured sellers that are either randomly chosen by the team leaders, or winners of treasury contests.

We are having a contest RIGHT NOW that will select the March featured seller! http://www.etsy.com/teams/5192/aretsy/discuss/9526416/
Submit your entry and get featured!

We are working on a redesign of the blog to include our directory of shops, which we have had over one third of our members respond with their information.

We are also looking on the interwebz for craft shows etc that occur around the state that our team members might be interested in attending. We of course want to throw our own, but in an effort not to over resolve for the year, we have that on the to do list.

We would love to see participation on the team discussion boards, Facebook, Twitter, comments to the blogs, everything. If you have suggestions, needs, questions, or just want a coffee chat these are the best places to meet up and get those things done.

Let's Go AREtsiers! Those other teams, bless their hearts, got nothing on the talents in the Natural State!

This is the items from our team member this week......

This is a lovely stained glass bird house from Jackie Jasper of Mountain Lily Farm!

January Featured Seller! - Lucky Pups Pet Supplies

2012-01-01T09:57:00.006-06:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in the country loving the outdoors, animals, and creating things...and I still do. I decided to major in Graphic Design and graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelors of Art with a emphasis in Graphic Design.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Right now I'm planning a wedding, so that takes up a big part of my time. I also enjoy the outdoors, checking out new restaurants, and spending time with my fiance, friends and family.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I am inspired by everything around me. People, Nature, Places. Color palettes found in nature are my favorite.

What does handmade mean to you?

Handmade is very important to me. Something handcrafted is so much more special that any item made in a factory.

Who has been most influential in your craft?

My sculpture professor. If it hadn't been for my sculpture classes, I would have never learned to etch.

When did you know you were an artist/maker?

I still don't know that I'm an artist. ha. I just like to make things and somehow people like them enough to buy them.

How would you describe your creative process?

Research – Sketch – Test - Create

What handmade possession do you most cherish?

I would have to say my notebook of drawing from when I was younger. I loved to draw and I have all of them together in a binder.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

Take a break. If I go for a walk, shopping, or to a movie to get my mind off the project usually when I come back I'm ready to create.

Where would you like to be in ten years?

In ten years I would like to have a family, still working from home, and enjoying life.

Tell us a little bit about your Shop:

LuckyPups specializes in an assortment of custom pet items including treat jars, pet bowls, diners, and gifts. All of our creations are personalized with your dog's (or cat's) name in one of our 15 fun fonts. You choose the font that best fits your pet's personality. We can work with every pet owner to spoil and pamper your pet!

How did you become interested or involved in your craft or art?

I have always been interested in arts, but I became interested in etching in my college sculpture class.

When you made your first sell...what did you REALLY do?

I was SO excited. I told everyone I could and got started on the order immediately. It was finished and ready to be shipped out that same day.

Do you promote your shop in any way? Please, share!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/luckypups.shop

Twitter: twitter.com/luckypups_shop

Blog: luckypupspetsupplies.blogspot.com

I also was recently featured in CityDog Magazine

(finish the following sentence)
This year I would like to accomplish...

a new line of dog bowls for the shop. Maybe even a few collars and dog toys.

Team Successes?

2011-12-29T11:12:00.003-06:00

It is hard to remember that when I post these blog entries that not everyone knows me and when I refer to myself in the first person my English teacher cringes! My name is Felicia Norwood, and I am one of the four leaders of the AREtsy team! I have been working to help our team lately by posting discussions on the Team page in Etsy, facebook posts, and these blog posts. I am also working with the other leaders to make our team one of the best on Etsy!

In other teams I see discussions for treasury listings (we have a contest running now) and success threads (have one of those too) and I want all of us to work to celebrate our big and little victories! We will be making some changes to the blog in the way of including a directory, which we are requesting the information you want included be sent to sweetydarlindesigns@gmail.com. We are going to include a show schedule for the entire state, so send that information to the same email. I have been selecting and posting featured sellers on a monthly basis, the winner of the treasury contest gets to be featured in March!

We also want to eventually have a special AREtsy Craft fair!

In this depressed economy, and the pressures that creates on all of us we (as a society) seem to have lost our focus that there are some very good things in our lives worth focusing on, and I know for myself those are the things I want to focus on this next year. I think our team is one of those BIG HAPPY THINGS!

What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Team Pow Wow Drive!

2011-12-28T09:27:00.002-06:00

We have a rough direction of the way we want to use the Team Grant money received from Etsy. We are going to work on getting a Team Directory compiled, and getting some improvements to the blog. We want to make this a team collective that the general public can find us.

We want to include as much or as little information on each team member as they are comfortable with, such as name, shop name, shop category (as we plan on grouping the directory into categories) facebook, twitter, tumblr, blog, address, email, phone, etc.

We have posted in a few locations to send all your information to sweetydarlindesigns@gmail.com. That way no one is posting their information too publicly.

We will also want to keep our show directory up to date. So if you know of any shows, or events send those to us as well. That could be posted in a comment here, or sent to the email listed above.

We have looked around online, and have a few other sites that we are using as a rough guideline for things to include, but the best way to make the team better is to get the team members involved. Myself and the other leaders want to make this one of the best teams on Etsy, but that takes a collective effort.

Come on AREtsiers! Let's get to the pow wow and blow all those other people AWAY!

BIG WIN FOR THE TEAM!!!

2011-12-22T11:15:00.004-06:00

We have been awarded a Team Grant from Etsy!

The basic rules of the grant are that we can use it for any purpose with regards to team promotion, but we have to document the use of the money and Etsy wants us to report back to them with photos etc.

We could use it to have a craft fair, get team shirts, advertisements, team meetings, ANYTHING!!!

We will need input from the team in order to have plans of what we could do to spend the money as beneficially as possible!

Please comment with your ideas, and input! This is a great opportunity for our team to have some real positive impact for our shops and our state!

AREtsy Featured Shop: Mountain Home Pottery

2011-12-09T09:09:00.011-06:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My husband and I have owned and operated Mountain Home Floral Co. in Mountain Home for 19 years. I have been a floral designer for 36 years. (Really doesn't seem like that long!) I have a son and two daughters and two granddaughters. I started taking pottery classes six years ago, because one of the things I had always wanted to learn was how to throw clay on a potter’s wheel. Well, little did I know it would become a new passion in my life. Not only did I learn to throw clay, but I learned to hand-build with clay, which opened up a whole new world of form and design. Three years ago my instructor and mentor asked me to collaborate on a project with her and another clay artist and that has grown into another business venture for me. I am very passionate about clay and I can’t stop myself.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

My husband will tell you that I never stop creating things! I love to sew, knit, crochet, and make soap. I'm also learning how to make cheese. (If only we had room for a cow or maybe a goat.) Before I got into clay, I took cake decorating classes, now that is fun and yummy, but my family would cringe when they saw me coming with another cake! They were all gaining weight. Now they have to add extra support to their cabinet shelves to hold up all the stoneware pottery I have gifted them with. So they gained weight in a different way.

If I see some cute or interesting thing I have to figure out how to make it.

I do enjoy reading and watching movies (while I knit or crochet) and going on hikes in the woods with my husband. We live in one of the most beautiful states and I never tire of making day trips to go on hikes.

What would be the title of your memoir? Why?

“There’s Always One More Thing to Learn” I am a perpetual student, when we stop learning, we stop living.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I am inspired by nature. There is no greater artist than God.

What does handmade mean to you?

To me, handmade means taking something and changing it in to something else.

Who has been most influential in your craft?

The person who has influenced me the most in my craft is Deborah Mitchell, my clay instructor, mentor and friend. She has been very generous with her knowledge and encouraging with her critique of my work.

When did you know you were an artist/maker?

I guess I have always been an artist. When I was young I loved to paint and draw and make things with whatever was on hand. I started working in flower shops when I was 16 and that gave me another outlet for my creative side.

How would you describe your creative process?

With clay you can have an idea of where you want to go, but you need to let the clay lead you as well. It’s good to be flexible when working in clay. My favorite saying is “I meant to do that!” Thing usually turn out better than my original plan.

If you could peek inside the studio of any artist, designer or craftsman (dead or alive), who would it be?

I am fascinated with Glass Blowing. I would love to give that a try! I would love to watch just how to go about making a gob of molten glass transform into a beautiful work of art.

What handmade possession do you most cherish?

I have a number crocheted Afghans made by my Mother that I love. Every time I wrap up in one I can feel her giving me a hug. I cover my granddaughters when they come to visit, in ones that she made for my daughter when she was a baby. Mom passed away thirteen years ago.

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

I switch gears and do something different. Take a walk and really look around. Or if I’m really in a rut I clean the studio, that does it everytime!

Where would you like to be in ten years?

I would like to still be working in clay in ten years. Making the majority of my income from the sale of my pieces. I would like to be able to travel more and see places I have never been before.

Check out Mountain Home Pottery's Etsy Store and Liz's profile!

Hump Day Blues

2011-12-07T09:15:00.003-06:00

Today is the middle of the week. The time that we start to look forward to the weekend but are so glad it is no longer Monday. This weekend there is an AREtsy meet and greet in Fort Smith at the Sweet Bay Coffee company on Rogers Avenue. It will be between noon and 2PM, and is not a come and hang out type thing, even though you can come for sure. It is more of a come and say hi and stay or go at your preference.

We have selected one of our team members to have a featured selling post and will be putting that up in a week or so. At this time I have just been surfing the team members pages and arbitrarily selected someone, but I would also welcome submissions from shops that may wish to be featured.

Also I would love submissions from team members to do little tutorials about how to make simple things. Sometimes we all need something fun to create that is outside our norm.

I really do want to work with the whole team to make us a cohesive group of artisians that relish our Arkansas heritage and skills.

Coffee Chats?

2011-11-22T08:29:00.002-06:00

So in an effort to get to know our team members we are going to attempt to schedule some coffee chat sessions in various areas around the state.

I (Felicia Norwood) have scheduled a meeting here in Fort Smith for December 10th between 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm at the Sweet Bay Coffee Company on Rogers next to Creekmore Park.

We would like to thank Sweet Bay Coffee for allowing us to use their space, free of charge, and are excited to patronize our local small businesses.

Just comment on this post to RSVP that you will be there! I am all excited now!

I will work to have one in the Fayetteville area maybe after the first of the year, but if there are any Etsiers up there that want to get together just let me know and I will help find a place and post all the details.

Anyone else want to schedule a meet and greet coffee chat?

Getting Back on Track

2011-11-15T16:45:00.004-06:00

Hello AREtsyers!

It has been a while since any posts have been made, but we want to get back on track and try to keep all of us connected! We have a lot of exciting ideas and would like to call on our members to pitch in and help us all! We will briefly list a few of the ideas, and look forward to seeing some comments regarding your thoughts.

1. Monthly featured team members, similar to the Etsy Featured Seller with the same questions to start and then maybe tweek them to our interests.

2. Tutorials from selected team members for quick and easy ideas for gifts, or other simple projects.

3. AREtsy events for team members in regional areas to get together, craft, drink coffee, and get to know one another.

We all lead busy lives, between homes, work, family, friends, and crafting. However we think as Arkansas, crafters, and Etsyiers we can work to make our group the best!

Let's hear from your all, and we look forward to getting to know all of you better!

Wear Your Team Spirit

2011-05-18T10:32:00.000-05:00

We need your help!
Calling all AREtsians... We would like to design and print AREtsy t-shirts!

We would love as many of our talented members as possible to give this little design request a try! Make them cute, clever, the world is your oyster, anything goes! We will then load all of them to a 'voting' page and send out the link, so that all members, or fans, can vote on their design. We will work hard to find printing options that are as cost-conscience as possible (and if any members can help there, please drop us a line!)... and will make these tee's available for purchase!

We would like to have all your ideas by Sunday, June 5th and hope to have the voting page up on the 8th. You can send to AREtsy@gmail.com. This initial design can be just flat artwork and we will place them on a tee for voting (just send instructions on where on the tee you'd like the artwork to go)... artwork will have to be kept to one side of t-shirt design. You will have to be willing to share your working files with us, so that we can print and keep handy for future needs. The voting will be anonymous, however, we will share proudly who created the 'favorite' look!

Who wouldn't want to sport their team pride, and advertise their shop on Etsy at the same time? What a great idea! Thank you labdesigns!

AREtsy Featured Shop: The Little Chick Boutique

2011-04-01T11:11:00.000-05:00

Photos courtesy of The Little Chick Boutique.
Rhyming Words Crayon Roll

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I am a self proclaimed domestic diva, wife, mother, personal chef, taxi driver.....you name it.....and I would not change it for the world. In my past life, I was a corporate aviation designer, but since having my daughter I have focused my attention on my creativity and building a business that will allow me to spend more time with my precious 1 year old.

Tell us a little bit about your shop:

The Little Chick Boutique specializes in baby accessories, monogramming and embroidery. We will be branching out into more fun things for mommy and also wedding items in the next coming months.

How did you become interested or involved in your craft or art?

I have always sewn for myself and others and I love to design so it made since to me to combine the two.

Crayon Roll - Retro Pink Paisley

How did you find Etsy?

I actually found Etsy from a purchase that I made myself.

When you made your first sell...what did you REALLY do?

I did cartwheels.....well not literally. But they were sure going on in my stomach. I was ecstatic.

What is one thing that you have learned through your experience as an Etsy member that has impacted you as a person?

Organization and prioritizing....okay that’s two things, but they have been a real challenge for me as a shop owner and I’m getting better at both.

Do you promote your shop in any way? Please, share!

I try to promote as much as I can thru word of mouth as well as facebook (the little chick) and my blog. www.thelittlechickboutique.blogspot.com

The Reversible EVERYTHING Bar - Retro Pink Paisley

(finish the following sentence)
This year I would like to accomplish...

I would love to be able to do some trade shows/craft shows this year and branch out my products.

Finally, just for fun, list 5 of your favorite movies, 5 of your favorite bands and your most favorite thing in the world to eat!
Movies: 1) Eat, Pray, Love 2) Harry Potter Series 3) Kate and Leopold 4) When Harry Met Sally 5) Casablanca
Books: 1) Dave Matthews 2) Train 3) Enya 4) Iron and Wine 5) One Republic
Favorite thing to eat: Chocolate

Set of (2) Appliqued Bibs - Pear and Strawberry

Seeing Green

2011-03-17T12:35:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Pinch Proof St. Patricks Day Tee or Onsie
by lulustiles

Organic Mineral Eyeshadow
Shimmer Green
by faceitcosmetics

Garden Herbs Loofah
Aloe and Olive Oil Bar
by Whimsywares

Absinthe - 80 yrds
by WoolyHands

St. Patricks Day Jabot
by FrockTarts

Crafting for a Cause

2011-03-10T15:56:00.000-06:00

Blog by AREtsy member: JenuineMemories

Photos courtesy of JenuineMemories.
Hope Vintage-Look Scrapbook

As a single person, who still has a wonderful day job as a teacher, my crafting is my "hobby". Note: that should read escape, pamper, alone time, etc. So more often than not my scrapbooking/ cardmaking hobby has evolved into a self-loving expression of and to myself. And my crowded studio (my spare bedroom) and my shrinking wallet reflect that I love Jen A LOT. Which is fine, but lately I have had the urge to give back.

So I was pleased to find in a recent etsy email, a link to Crafting It Forward. From there I found a link to where to donate. The first thing that caught my eye was Operation Write Home.

This allows card crafters like myself to send cards for the troops to write home on. An important thing to remember is that these are for our military men and women to write home to their families. They have a place where you can send hero cards. They have some rules and regulations, so read over them carefully. In my opinion, I can't think of a better way to give back than to make it easier for a service man or woman to write home. They really want "blank inside" cards and cards that can be used year round. I sent over some of my Sock monkey cards.

I hope that some quirky service man or woman will write home to their significant other or child using my cards. That would make my day and make me feel just a teeny bit less selfish.

Happy Crafting!

- Jennifer

@JenuineMemories on Etsy

Other inspire ideas to craft for a cause:

Love Letters: Random Cards of Kindness Founded and run by a Florida teenager, Love Letters “creates positive and inspirational homemade cards for children with life-threatening illnesses.”
Life Books General effort to create scrapbooks for kids in foster homes.
Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy

Thank you so much Jennifer for taking the time to share your story and this inspiring idea! Any other blog ideas? We would love to hear from you! Email us at AREtsy@gmail.com.

AREtsy Featured Shop: Primal Painter

2011-03-04T13:32:00.000-06:00

Modern Abstract Painting Wall Sculpture
Photos Courtesy of Primal Painter

Describe yourself in 5 words:

I'm an artsy, creative, spiritual, nature loving, color loving, cartoon loving, dreamer type.

Tell us a little bit about your shop.

Right now my shop is concentrated on geometric colorful abstract wall sculptures, although I'm also moving in the direction of abstract figurative wall sculpture and 3D chakra and aura interpretations intended for healing purposes. http://primalpainter.etsy.com

How did you become interested or involved in your craft or art?

I've always been defined as an artist, even as a young child, so I guess making art is just a natural way of being for me.

Modern Abstract Art Painting Wall Sculptures:
Red Diamond, Spiral Blue and Modern Art

How did you find Etsy?

I googled online marketing opportunities for artists

When you made your first sell...what did you REALLY do?

LOL, I did some crazy dance with lots of hair tossing and shakin' that thang

What is one thing that you have learned through your experience as an Etsy member that has impacted you as a person?

There's a sense of freedom with Etsy. It seems to have broken down some fear barriers about trying something artistically new. It's opened up the creative flow and natural evolution that artists thrive on.

Has another shop, blogger or website inspired you or helped to shape your vision for your own shop (like a muse)?

No one shop in particular has influenced me in terms of my own shop appearance, but there are dozens and dozens of shops that I admire and would like to achieve their level of professionalism and performance.

Wall Sculpture 3D Art Mirror
Green Violet Starburst

Do you promote your shop in any way? Please, share!

Oh gosh, I wish I had some magic way to promote! I haven't been involved in online marketing for very long, so I still have alot to learn. Possibilities include: making treasuries, having a blog, getting involved with teams and the forums, facebook page, twitter, and art shows

(finish the following sentence)
This year I would like to accomplish...

feeling complete creative fulfillment and financial security from my etsy shop and other online venues each and every month.

Finally, just for fun, list 5 of your favorite movies, 5 of your favorite bands and your most favorite thing in the world to eat!

Movies: 1) Avatar 2) Alice in Wonderland (Johnny Depp) 3) Lord of the Rings Trilogy 4) Pirates of the Caribbean Trilogy 5) Ice Age

Bands: 1) Nickleback 2) Metallica 3) 3 Doors Down 4) Fuel 5) Saliva
Favorite thing to eat is: As a bad girl: Dove Dark Chocolate. As a good girl: sugar snap peas and cherry tomatoes fresh off the vine in my garden..yummy!

What's one thing you would do to improve Etsy for sellers?

I think it would be cool if when an item gets, say 5 hearts, it automatically gets moved to the first page of its category without having to relist. A reward system for love, right on!

AREtsy Featured Shop: Shelly's Crafting

2011-02-18T13:03:00.000-06:00

Diaper Bag - All-Purpose Bag
Photos Courtesy of Shelly's Crafting

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I am a 26 year old mother of two. I have a 3 year old son named Gracen and a 7 month old daughter named Patience. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Warren, for six years. I live in Centerton, AR. I enjoy sewing and crafting, singing in my church choir, loving on my kiddos, and hanging out with friends.

Tell us a little bit about your shop:

I love kiddos!! So, my shop is full of creations for all those cute kiddos out there!

In Order: Spring Garden Burpy Set,
Garden Argyle Boutique Burpy Duo,
Boys Polka Dot Boutique Burpy Pack

How did you become interested or involved in your craft or art?

I have always loved crafting, but never thought I would be able to use it to make money. When I had my first child, I was working full time. I missed my son terribly during that time and I prayed that the Lord would provide a way for me to financially be able to stay home with my son. Now, three years and a daughter later, I am a stay at home mom babysitting part-time and working to build my Etsy business.

How did you find Etsy?

I stumbled across Etsy when I was searching online for a way to be able to sell some of my handmade items.

When you made your first sell...what did you REALLY do?

Called my very supportive husband and my very best friend to share the news!!!

What is one thing that you have learned through your experience as an Etsy member that has impacted you as a person?

That "I can do it." Years ago I would have never thought I would be making and selling items on the internet. I would have never had the confidence to do it. But, Etsy has provided a way for me to sell my items and each time I sell an item and I receive positive feedback it boost my self esteem and make me want to run to my craft room and try something new.

Has another shop, blogger or website inspired you or helped to shape your vision for your own shop (like a muse)?

Most shops I see are inspiring and I can learn so much from all the other Etsy members.

Do you promote your shop in any way? Please, share!

I have lots of friends and family that are very supportive and hand out business cards for me. Some even take items of mine to work with them to sell. I also have a Fanpage on Facebook.

(finish the following sentence)
This year I would like to accomplish...
my 100th sell on Etsy!!

Double Layer Twirl Skirt

Finally, just for fun, list 5 of your favorite movies, 5 of your favorite bands and your most favorite thing in the world to eat!

Movies
Facing the Giants
Love Dare
Twilight Movies
The Notebook

Favorite Bands
Mercy Me
FFH
Avalon
Casting Crowns

Favorite Thing to Eat: Taco Salad

Our Sentiments Exactly

2011-02-14T14:15:00.000-06:00

Ditto on the Love Cards by Gingiber

Heart on a Stick by punkinhead

MuLti hEaRts Small Bowl by mmcollins

Red Heart Button Ring by JulieRose

Happy Valentine's Day!

AREtsy Featured Shop: Closet Lush Boutique

2011-02-11T10:00:00.030-06:00

Top: Monogrammed Lavender Candle - Set of 3
Bottom Left: Ivory Swarovski Pearl & Clear Crystal Earrings
Bottom Right: Seven Necklace
Photos Courtesy of Closet Lush Boutique.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I've always loved the arts. I grew up drawing, reading, writing, crafting. Anything I could do with my hands. Anything intellectual. I'm a weird mix of laid back and perfectionism. As opposite as that seems, I like everything to be perfect. Im very detailed. But I'm also relaxed. Is that possible?

Tell us a little bit about your shop:

Closet Lush Boutique started out in October 2010 for local friends and family. (Located in Russellville, AR) It expanded to include friends of friends and co-workers and so forth. At the time, we mainly featured the most sought after items. Brand name, if you will. I discovered Etsy and joined in December 2010. I mostly browsed through other people's handmade items... and that inspired me to limit brand name items and focus my attention back to crafting.

How did you become interested or involved in your craft or art?

I think it is just a natural thing for people. We all like to fill our time with hobbies. Some people have a gift in certain areas, like painting (and how I wish I could paint!). I started as early as could remember. I used to draw... a lot.

Sorority Picture Frame

How did you find Etsy?

I stumbled upon it while searching for ways to list items online. It was much better than ebay. The users are friendly and it had a sense of community. Something I didn't expect to find, but made me stay.

Has another shop, blogger or website inspired you or helped to shape your vision for your own shop (like a muse)?

For Strange Women. That shop is the best shop I have ever seen. Her photos are remarkable, her listings are perfect. Very inspiring!

Do you promote your shop in any way? Please, share!
Facebook
Blog

(finish the following sentence)
This year I would like to accomplish...

a growing shop. I would love more people to discover my work, to wear my work, to tell their friends about it. I wouldn't mind this being what I do everyday. In fact, I hope it happens!

Finally, just for fun, list 5 of your favorite movies, 5 of your favorite bands and your most favorite thing in the world to eat!

Movies: The Notebook, Titanic, Iron Man, Transformers, & National Treasure.
I love action movies... The Notebook & Titanic are the only two romantic movies I actually like.
Bands: I like rock. I love Linkin Park, Skillet, Hoobastank, and Paramore. But I love Carrie Underwood too!
Favorite thing to eat: Either chocolate or salads. Hard to pick.

As you can tell, I like the extremes. There doesn't seem to be a "happy medium" to me. But honestly, I'm quite happy on one end or the other.

Blog Beautiful!

2011-02-10T21:26:00.000-06:00

Drum roll please... and, REVEAL!
The blog receieved the new look facelift today! Hooray! Let us know what you think? Also, please be sure to share with us any ideas you have on how we can continue to improve this location as a perfect 'one-stop' for an overall connection to the AREtsy group - both for Members and for all our friends/fans.

Take note of the exciting new pages at the top too! We wanted to have another spot to list our Members with links to their Etsy shops and social media spaces, as well as, another place to list all upcoming shows in the state (and surrounding area) and events planned for the AREtsy group. These pages defintely take time, so thank you all for your patience... but most importantly, send us anything you can or know about to make sure we get it included!

Calling all bloggers! Starting very soon we will launch the 'shop profiles', where we'll get a chance to learn a little more about our members... BUT, anyone who has an idea for a blogpost, helpful tips, business advice, etc. that they would be interested in writing about and submitting, we would LOVE to hear from you! Just email us at AREtsy@gmail.com. Thanks everyone!

Vote Now!!

2011-01-19T16:30:00.000-06:00

for the 'New Year. New Look.'

We are giving AREtsy a make-over for the new year and we now have some designs to choose from! Thanks to everyone who contributed something, your help was greatly appreciated!

Just click on the following link to choose a design you think fits the look and personality best of our little ole' Etsy team. You can comment on as many as you like but you can only choose one! Can't wait to hear your thoughts!!!

http://fb.me/twkZj4Lk

New Year. New Look.

2011-01-07T10:59:00.004-06:00

We need your help!

Calling all AREtsians... We are looking to give a new 'look' to AREtsy. Updating the identity as it were, for what we use on our blog header, Etsy profile pic/banner, facebook, twitter, etc. We would love as many of our talented members as possible to give this little design request a try! We will then load all of them to a 'voting' page and send out the link, so that all members, or fans, can vote on their favorite new look.

We would like to have all your ideas by Sunday, January 16th and hope to have the voting page up on the 17th. You can send to AREtsy@gmail.com. This initial design should be 450 x 300 pixels per inch. jpegs will do fine. You will have to be willing to share your working files with us, so that we can translate into all sizes needed and keep handy for future needs. The voting will be anonymous, however, we will share proudly who created the 'favorite' look!

So, doodle-on, snap some pics, drink some coffee - however, you get inspired! We look forward to seeing your new look!

2010-12-21T13:48:00.000-06:00

Team Challenge: Create your own AREtsy treasury!
What better way to use all our communication forums than to share some of our favorite reasons we love Etsy and our team?! Make sure you let us know of your curation - spread the word on our Etsy team Forum!

A New Face on Facebook

2010-12-08T09:42:00.000-06:00

Have you heard the news? Have you told your friends? AREtsy is now on Facebook! Yes, we know most of the world is there too... That's the point! What better tool to use to get the word out about AREtsy and our members?! We really want to bulk up our social media presence so that we can use it as a tool for all AREtsy shopowners who are interested in getting a bit more free advertising.
Who doesn't love free advertising?

To try to increase the excitement and build our fanbase quickly, we are going to do a giveaway once we meet 500 fans on Facebook, then 1000 fans. Anyone who is interested in donating a piece to include in the winners AREtsy prize package, please let us know by sending a pic of the item and short blurb to AREtsy@gmail.com (We will then compile them and make a photo folder on FB, as well as, get the word out about this awesome offer!)

You could even win!

Tell all your 'friends' :)

Tweet, Tweet

2010-12-02T19:27:00.003-06:00

photo: artandartifacts

AREtsy Team now has a Facebook and Twitter account! We'd love to get as many 'likes' on Facebook as possible so tell your friends and tell them to tell their friends!

More to come!

It's just about time...

2010-07-29T10:24:00.006-05:00

Photo courtesy of WoolyHands - Bunting created by the talented PunkinHead (both of AREtsy)

It's the end of July... do you know when your next craft show is?

It dawned on me last night that I have less than three months until my first BIG show of the season. Ummm... where did the time go? I had huge plans to knit and spin throughout the year to be prepared for this, but somehow, I've let time get away from me. The AREtsy group is starting to be abuzz with news of shows and first time attendees so I thought it might be wise to post a link to one of our earlier blog posts about attending craft shows.

Craft Show Preparation Link of Goodness

Of course every show is different and how we get ready for them will change depending on the location, length, and type of show. We'll soon have posts with new tips, links to shows and who from AREtsy is attending, and information about HUGE nationally known shows. But for now, reply to this post and let us know of any craft show secrets you might have. We'd love to hear from you.

We're still here!

2010-05-25T21:33:00.001-05:00

This blog is still alive... I promise!

In the works are plans to add an upcoming events section... tutorials... Etsy news... lots of good stuff. Please hang in there, we'll be back soon :)

Pleased to meet you!

2010-01-13T13:50:00.003-06:00

pre-made scrapbook pages from TheBeehive

We have had so many new faces join AREtsy during the past couple of months. A few have popped into the forums or Yahoo message boards to say hello but some have been pretty quiet. We have such a large group that it might be a bit overwhelming to new folks.

So, for all of you new AREtsy members - Hello and we're all pleased to meet you!

Did you know we have a chat forum over at Etsy? Go here to see it. It's a great place to let us know what you're up to, get the latest updates about the team, blog and Etsy and it's also just a great place to get to know each other. One of the wonderful things about AREtsy is how friendly we all are. So come on over, grab a cup of tea, and just sit back and chat with us. We'd love to have you.

Ch-ch-ch-changes

2010-01-11T13:33:00.002-06:00

Etsy's founder has announced some way cool... no, super cool, no way super cool changes over in the forums. You can read the announcement here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6401253

I'm really looking forward to all of the changes, but the two that really have my tail wagging the most are the ones about multiple shops under one account (life just got easier) and the Etsy Team changes. Each Etsy Team will have a section with their own forums, marketplace, and possibly even more. I've already got so many ideas going through my head on this one. Imagine being able to keep up with your team on Etsy instead of having to go to Google or Yahoo group functions? Fabulous.

If you haven't read the announcement, go there, now. You won't be sorry.

Resolutions

2010-01-05T10:05:00.002-06:00

"Reflections" by NightSkyProducts

The turn of the year bring New Year Resolutions. Everyone is talking about them right now. In fact, if you're like me, you're probably tired of being asked "What resolutions did you make?". I've grown cynical of this question and I've been known to sarcastically reply with "Not to make any so I don't break them and feel like a failure". However sarcastic we might be about personal resolutions, we all know that goals are good for our businesses.

I've sat down and thought about what I wanted to do this year to increase sales, increase recognition, increase increase increase! I've kept it simple. I know that I'm not going to do anything HUGE this year. There is no need to tackle something I'm not ready to take on yet. No reason to set yourself up for failure before you even get halfway through January. So, take a minute, write down what goals you have for your business this year and think about what it would take to achieve that goal and put things into motion.

Can't think of any goals for your business other than make more money? Here's some to get you started:

- Sell in your first craft show.
- If you already sell in craft shows, add another, larger one, to your list.
- Consider what your business name says about you. Does it fit with your brand? Do you have a brand?
- Do you love doing what your doing? If not, what changes could be made to make you fall in love all over again?
- Do you have all of your legal paperwork in order? No? 2010 might be a good time to go ahead and do that.

So, what goals have you set for your business in 2010? List some in the comments or link to a blog post you did about it. Sharing ideas will help all of us out. I can't wait to hear what some of you have planned this year.

'Tis The Season To Shop Handmade In Arkansas

2009-11-11T09:43:00.007-06:00

It's that time of year again, time to do your holiday shopping! What better way to shop than to shop handmade (and locally!)? You get beautiful, quality items while supporting your local artisans and artists, sounds pretty good to us! So many of our AREtsy team members are getting ready to sell their wares in Arkansas craft shows all over the state that I just had to share a list. If you know of any other shows, please leave a comment about it! If you're an AREtsy member who is participating in a show but aren't listed, please leave your information here.

2009 Holiday Craft Shows

Northwest Arkansas Boutique Show
Saturday, November 14 : 10AM - 5PM
Holiday Inn Convention Center in Springdale, AR
Show Website

AREtsy members selling at this show:
Dana of PishPoshCreations
Erin of Idyllhands and Woolyhands

Handmade for the Holidays
Saturday, November 14 : 9AM - 4PM
ArtChurch in Hot Springs, AR
Show Website

AREtsy members selling at this show:
Ducky Jewelry Designs
The Beehive
EkioArt

Lamar Handmade Boutique
Saturday, November 14 : 9AM - 7PM
Memorial Hall in Lamar, MO
Show Website

AREtst members selling at this show:
MyCurlyRed

Searcy All Handmade Show
Saturday, November 14 : 8AM - 3PM
Carmichael Center in Searcy

AREtsy members selling at this show:
LoonLanding

Fayetteville Farmer's Market - Holiday Markets
Saturday, November 21 : 7AM - 1PM
Downtown Fayetteville on the Sqaure
and
Saturday, December 5: 9AM - 3PM
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

Both will feature more crafts and gift items than the usual market and include the following AREtsy members:
Laurie of Punkinhead and Girlchild
Erin of Idyllhands and Woolyhands

Arts Eureka Fall Show
Saturday, November 28 and Sunday, November 29
Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center in Eureka Springs, AR

Carmichael Center Holiday Show
Saturday, December 5 : 8AM - 3PM
Carmichael Center in Searcy

AREtsy members at this show:
LoonLanding

HAPPY HOLIDAY SHOPPING!!!

Handcrafted Holiday

2009-11-06T11:25:00.004-06:00

Coming next week will be a list of shows that the artists of AREtsy are participating in for the Holidays, but there is a show tomorrow that will have some local artists in it (a few who are members of AREtsy). I didn't want that event to get missed because it will be a great opportunity to come out, meet some AREtsy ladies and have some fun.

What: A Handcrafted Holiday
When: Saturday, November 7
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Walton Arts Center's Nadine Baum Studios (corner of West Avenue and Spring Street)

This boutique show will feature the following shops:
Punkinhead Designs
Night Sky Products
Lather Me Up Soaps
Ladybugs and Gentlemen
Charlotte Goodreau Massage Specialist
Idyll Hands
Wooly Hands

There will be Holiday treats to snack on, delicious drinks (leaded and unleaded), festive music and lots of one of a kind items perfect for any Christmas presents for friends, family, or yourself!

So come on out - we'd love to see you there. Bring a friend (or three) and enjoy a girls evening out!

Do you know what weekend it is?

2009-10-12T09:49:00.002-05:00

It's War Eagle Weekend! Can you guys believe that this weekend is finally here? An entire weekend... well, you could almost say week... full of craft fairs. Too many craft fairs for one person to visit. We have War Eagle, Bella Vista Arts and Crafts Festival, the NWArkansas Craft Show in two locations, Spanker Creek (although I don't recommend going to this one), shows at the Frisco Mall, Jones Center and a plethora of other places.

This weekend is one of my favorite weekends of the year. I always loved hunting craft shows for that perfect gift for someone (or myself), getting to samples the dips and sauces that vendors sell, and just having a blast getting in the spirit of the season. Since becoming a vendor in the craft show circuit a few years ago, I have missed out on the fun of the hunt. Sure, I can get some Christmas shopping in while hanging out at my booth for a few days, but it's not the same as hopping from show to show only taking a break for lunch. I just miss the shopping - what can I say... a girl's gotta shop!

Who's heading out for the shows this weekend? Who's vending? Leave a comment telling us where you'll be so we can get out and shop from some local Etsy artists.

So put on your comfy shoes, empty your bank account and start shopping for Christmas!

Ravenwood Festival

2009-09-29T07:56:00.008-05:00

Click to enlarge poster

If you're a lover of all things steampunk then there's an event coming to Northwest Arkansas October 2nd and 3rd you will not want to miss called Ravenwood Festival. Ravenwood Festival is a yearly Steampunk, Darkwave, Industrial event that takes place in Northwest Arkansas featuring bands, live performance artists, and djs from all over North America as well as artisans from all over the globe. One of the artisans that will be selling her wares at the festival is our very own El's Bells! For more information on the performers, vendors and tickets visit ravenwoodfestival.com

**If you're a member of AREtsy and have an upcoming event you'd like to share on the team blog, please feel free to contact us via the yahoo group, etsy team thread, or by directly contacting IdyllHands or TheBeehive on etsy.**

Do The Math

2009-09-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

Bubble Gum Chalkboard by Moxie Sisters

Trying to decided if an artsy/crafty business venture is in your best interest? Here's a great food for thought article that might help you make that decision a more informed one! This article was written by Laurie of Glassbead on Etsy and originally posted on her blog, Isinglass Design. Thank you so much for sharing this great article with us!

Do The Math

As you attempt to get your home-based art or craft business off the ground, you may be approached by folks who have shows they would like you to participate in, or shops they want you to sell your products in. Here’s my special tip to help you make these important decisions- do the math! It’s very important to figure out how much something is really going to cost you before you sign on the dotted line and turn over your hard-earned money. What do I mean, how much it’s really going to cost you? Well, first and most important is the booth fee, or percentage the shop will take off the top. Booth fees are pretty straightforward.

Here’s an example. Let’s say I have heard about a show with a $100 booth fee. A fee of $100 is just that, no hidden costs, no percentages. But what, exactly, would I need to sell to make that kind of fee a sensible investment? I have often heard that a booth fee should be no more than 20% of your gross. So if I pay a booth fee of $100, I would want to bring in at least $500.
I would think about the number of hours the show lasts, the amount of inventory I predict I can have in my booth, etc. Does it seem feasible? I have found, in the larger shows I have done, that I can generally sell maybe 20-25% of the stock I have on hand. So for a show like this I would want to have at least $2000 worth of product on hand. I know that can be easily done. Now how about the hours of the show? Well, let’s say the show is just one day- a Saturday from 10am to 8pm. That’s 10 hours. Ok, so if I sold an average of $50 worth of items an hour, I could make that booth fee. Do-able? Well, probably.

There are plenty of other considerations, though. Is it in town? That means no hotel and minimal gas costs. Is it a juried craft show? I find that that is what draws the type of customers I am looking for. Is it indoors or outdoors? Bad weather can ruin your chances of having a good day at an outdoor show. Do I know anyone who has done the show? What do they think? This is a starting point, though folks have different ideas of what a ‘good show’ is.
All of these things and many more should be taken into consideration, but doing the math on that show fee is the first, very important step.

Here’s an example a friend presented me with recently- a craft mall situation where he would pay $100 a month, plus 15% of his sales. Hmmm… That sounded a little iffy to me, so I did the math for him. Here’s what I told him. Well, if you sold $1000 worth of your product a month, you would pay that $100 rent, plus another $150 a month in fees. That’s 25% of your sales. Is that sensible for you? Well, he knew from previous shop experiences that it was pretty unlikely that he would sell $1000 worth of product in one shop in a month. And if he sold less, the percentage he would be paying the shop would just go up. For me, the answer was a definite no. I don’t think he’s going to do it either.

Yes, there may be times when you just want to take the plunge, roll the dice, and see what happens. But I’d strongly suggest that you first do the math, and not delude yourself about how things will turn out financially in the end.

Hope this helps with some of those difficult show decisions!

**If you're a member of AREtsy and have a great article you'd like to share on the team blog, please feel free to contact us via the yahoo group, etsy team thread, or by directly contacting IdyllHands or TheBeehive on etsy.**

Is that a cool breeze I'm feeling?

2009-08-31T13:30:00.006-05:00

The weather in NW Arkansas, although mild all summer, has taken a cooler turn this past couple of days. Could it be that Autumn is descending upon the Ozark Mountains just in time for the start of craft fair season? Can we be that lucky?

Did I lose you at craft fair? That's right, this coming weekend, Labor Day weekend, marks the start of the craft fair season for Northwest Arkansas. The Clothesline Fair will be taking place in Prairie Grove at the Battlefield Park. This has always been one of my favorite fairs to visit. The artists are amazing, the food is good, and the scenery is lovely. In fact, this fair will be featuring a couple of the AREtsy team members! Starlightdesigns and PeacesofIndigo will both be on site - so make sure to drop by and meet some fellow team members.

This is a HUGE event with tons of artists to shop with. Come on out and get some Christmas shopping done early, eat a turkey leg, drink some fresh squeezed Lemonade and listen to some live music. You'll be sorry if you miss it!

For more information, please visit the Arts Center of the Ozarks Website here.

AREtsy Spring Tweet Swap Creations

2009-07-25T21:40:00.009-05:00

Arkansas Artists on Etsy members are hearing the sweet chirping of birds! Awhile back we had our team's Spring Tweet Swap and here are some of the beautiful creations our team members came up with for this lovely birdie theme. Be sure to click the image or link below to be taken to the artist's Etsy shop.

Water Cast Sterling Silver Pendant on Oxidized SS Chain by Teresa Smith of TSmithDesigns
handmade silver and gemstone jewelry

Watercolor Robin by Suzanne Churchill of arpainter
watercolor painter specializing in house portraits

Swallow Necklace by Erin of Idyll Hands
handmade jewelry and hand knit Accessories

Birdhouse Heart Home by Beth of Heart Homes
clay tiles and sculpture

Knitting Bird shadow box by Sunny of The Beehive
custom scrapbooks and unique paper crafts

Drum roll please...

2009-07-05T22:17:00.004-05:00

I mentioned in a previous post that something big was coming in July. Hopefully, this won't disappoint.

AREtsy is having a team wide Christmas in July sale starting Monday, July 6 and lasting 2 weeks until Sunday, July 19. This sale is HUGE! There are some amazing deals to be had and you don't want to miss out.

Here is a list of participating AREtsy shops along with some basic details for their sales. What are you waiting for? Go shop!

The Beehive - $5 off scrapbooks, memory catchers, framed silhouettes and premade page layouts (including custom orders), free shipping on all other items not mentioned above. Also, receive $5 off future purchases. Just enter "Christmas in July" in notes to seller at time of checkout to receive the discount.

Idyll Hands - HUGE sale section and free shipping on all jewelry purchases! Other discounts and specials to be announced over the next two weeks.

Wooly Hands - Huge sale section on yarns and roving. New items and discounts to be announced over the next two weeks.

Urban Amulets - Free gift with each purchase.

Peaces of Indigo - Free shipping to be refunded via PayPal after purchase.

The Doodle Brush - Free shipping

Girlchild - Free shipping. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

Punkinhead - Free shipping. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

Forever and a Day - Free shipping and free gift with purchase, contact seller prior to purchase with "Christmas in July" to receive discount.

The Wishing Well - Free shipping and free gift with purchase, contact seller prior to purchase with "Christmas in July" to receive discount.

Tutu Cute and Moore - Free sweetly embellished hanger to match any tutu purchase.

Elizabeth Jayne - free shipping or 25% off order. Leave a note to seller requested discount.

AJs Art Studio - discounted items and free shipping. Shipping will be refunded after payment.

AR Painter - commissioned paintings will receive matching note card. All other purchases will receive a free ACEO.

My Curly Red - Buy one get one half off on all zipper pulls, free shipping, and large clearance section.

Ekio Art - all items already marked down.

Shillcutt Studio - free shipping, will be refunded after payment via PayPal.

Glass Bead - buy one get one of equal or lesser value half off. Item will be refunded after payment.

Bluetail Designs - 20% off of everything and free shipping to US and Canada. Enter "July09" in notes to seller at time of check out to receive refund via PayPal.

Simply Stacy Jewelry - 15% off of everything (excluding mother and grandmother bracelets). Send a convo to seller letting her know which items you want and she'll adjust their price.

Rum and Rubies - see shop for details

BBs Bowtique - Buy one item, get one half off. Wait for a revised invoice prior to paying.

Connies Inspirations - free gift with each purchase

Linda68 - free shipping in the US, $1 everywhere else.

Hats Etc - buy one item get one half off - item refunded after payment.

BMacre - free shipping with $20 purchase, free shipping and free gift with $50 purchase. Refunded via PayPal after payment.

Heart Homes - free shipping with $20 purchase, free shipping and free gift with $50 purchase. Refunded via PayPal after payment.

Sew Into You - discounted Christmas fabrics.

Madd Crocheter - 10% discount on all items. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

ScrapADot - buy one item, get one item half off. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

Handy Helpers - select items discounted. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

ElsBells - free shipping on all items.

By Cheryl Images - buy one luggage tag, get one luggage tag free.

Pamper Me Please - sale section and $1 shipping to US and Canada (excludes items in Flavors section).

Oak Leaf Hollow - 10% off of everything. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

Oak Leaf Hollow Vintage - 10% off of everything. To be refunded after payment via PayPal.

TDogArt - select discounted items in the jewelry and ACEOs sections.

Something BIG

2009-06-23T22:17:00.001-05:00

Something BIG is coming in July. Keep your eyes peeled and directed on this blog on July 6 for a HUGE announcement.

You won't want to miss it.

I promise.

Etsy wide YART Sale!!!

2009-06-09T11:44:00.018-05:00

For those of you who were selling or shopping on Etsy last summer, you might remember a viral sale dubbed the "YART Sale". It was a single idea introduced in the forums that spiraled and took Etsy by storm. The idea of a YART Sale is like a yard sale... but with art! Many, many, many Etsy shops jumped on board to participate last summer with sales on items, free shipping, free gifts with purchase, and so much more.

Well, the 2nd annual YART Sale is taking place again this year and is sponsored by the ESST (Etsy Supply Street Team). It officially takes place Wednesday, June 10 - Sunday, June 14. It's a good chance to find many great deals from some fabulous Etsy artists. Just due a tag search for "Yart" to find shops that are participating. Many AREtsy members are also participating. You can shop here in Arkansas AND get a great deal on some great items by browsing the following list (keep visiting as more artists join in on the sale - they will be added to the list):

IdyllHands - jewelry
WoolyHands - handspun yarn, spinning fiber
SewIntoYou - destash fabric
MaddCrocheter - yarn
ForeverAndADay - jewerly
ARPainter - notecards

MyCurlyRed - jewelry
EkioArt - handcrafted whimsy
TheBeehive - handcrafted paper goods, scrapbooks, and more!
HeartHomes - clay creations for your home
TutuCuteandMoore - custom children's gifts
SimplyStacyJewelry - jewelry
OakLeafHollowVintage - vintage goodies
OakLeafHollow - primitive and whimsical folk art
GlassBead - lampwork glass beads and jewelry
MoxieSisters - furniture, lamps, paintings, pillows, chalkboards

For more information about the YART Sale - visit the Etsy Supplies Street Team blog here.

At Home In Arkansas Magazine

2009-05-30T07:48:00.006-05:00

The new issue of At Home In Arkansas Magazine is now on the newsstands. Make sure you grab a copy since you'll be seeing some familiar faces. This month's issue is all about cottage style and contains an article on cottage industry with some of our AREtsians' handmade goodness featured! Grab it up off the newsstands, your local bookstore or go see the online version here. Those featured in the article are:

Moxie Sisters
art and artifact s
mm collins
Suzanne Churchill
bmacre
the beehive
Sarah Ridgley
Storia Home
Cheryl images

Girls Night "Beaut-ique"

2009-05-26T13:13:00.005-05:00

Three of your fellow AREtsy members will be participating in a boutique... or should I say beaut-ique sale on Thursday, May 28 in Rogers, AR. Punkinhead, Idyllhands/Woolyhands, and NightskyProducts will all be selling their goods along with a few other local artists and there will be some wine, non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and massages as well.

So come on out to Balanced Body at 816 B West Poplar in Rogers on Thursday evening between 5:30 PM and 9:00 PM.

Oh - did I mention, there will be door prizes? So come on out, meet some fellow AREtsians and have a fabulous time with the ladies.

Pssst - there is the potential that this event could grow a bit for the Holiday season, so if you're looking for a trunk sale in NWArkansas to get in on, it might be a good idea to come down and meet the ladies who organize it *winks*

Anyone up for a team sale?

2009-05-26T08:28:00.004-05:00

While we're still lazing away the days here in May, summer is just around the corner. Before you know it, it will be June and just 4 weeks later, we'll be facing July dead on. The AREtsy team will be holding a team wide "Chrismtas in July" sale in July. It will either be the entire month or the first couple of weeks - that has yet to be determined. We'll promote it here on this blog, on our personal blogs, on Twitter, Facebook, other team blogs (we do have some sister teams), in the Etsy forums and on the Etsy event calendar. It should be big - so I'm hoping you'll all join in.

If you are interested in participating (and I sincerely hope you are), please email send me a convo on Etsy (Idyllhands) with your shop name, what your sale is (type of discount, free shipping, etc) and how the buyers will redeem their discount/sale (for example - will they leave a note at time of purchase? Will your items already be priced at their sale price?).

We're looking forward to a great summer of sales!

Perspectives: Traditions and Innovations in Glass Beads

2009-05-18T20:44:00.007-05:00

More exciting team member news! Laurie Ament, known to most of us as glassbead, has just had an incredible honor bestowed upon her glass, she's going to have one of her beads (pictured left) in a juried show in Corning, New York being hosted by the International Society of Glass Beadmakers (ISGB). This is an incredible honor and the show is going to include a list of impressive glass artists that Laurie is honored to be among. Below is the show's description, as found on the ISGB website, but be sure to click here for a full list of glass artists that will be in the show and a gorgeous slide show of their very impressive work. You can also visit Laurie's Etsy shop, Isinglass Designs, to make some of her gorgeous beads yours or find her regularly at the River Market in downtown Little Rock, AR. Congratulations Laurie!

Perspectives: Traditions and Innovations in Glass Beads

We are pleased to announce the artists whose work will be our 2009 Perspectives exhibition and part of the GAS Conference in Corning, New York!

This juried exhibit presented by ISGB, represents the endlessly captivating styles, techniques, and processes used in contemporary glass beadmaking. Unique color, form, and textural elements were combined to highlight the infinite possibilities of glass, as expressed by our members. Artists were encouraged to create a bead that best captured their inspiration, innovation, and personal "voice."

This distinctive collection of small wonders in glass artistry can be enjoyed June 5 to September 7 at the Radisson Hotel, Corning, and opens specifically as part of the 2009 GAS Conference. Artists, collectors, gallery and museum personnel, writers, and critics from around the globe will come together to celebrate the medium that unites us all - glass!

In addition to the exhibition that will be showcased to glass enthusiasts all summer long, the top three beads with the highest jury scores will share the COVER of the summer issue of The Glass Bead magazine. These artists will be announced no later than May 12.

Last Chance To Swap: AREtsy Team Spring Tweets Swap

2009-05-18T09:38:00.003-05:00

If you're an AREtsy team member who wants to participate in the Spring Tweets Swap please get your information in ASAP! Brandy will be sending out match ups for the swap Wednesday night! Happy Swapping! You can find the swap information here.

Big Etsy Twitter Team Sidewalk Sale!

2009-05-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Etsy Twitter Team is having a Sidewalk Sale to celebrate the spring weather and to get outside a bit! Virtually! So please take a stroll down our sidewalk of shop listings. Each shop is having a different sale so check them all out. There are some extremely great deals going on this week!!

The sales run from Sunday, May 17th to Saturday, May 23rd.

BeadworkByAmanda.etsy.com
20% off – discount applied in pricing

PrettyCheap.etsy.com
FREE card with purchase of any 3 items! Exquisite floral, original photos and detailed embroidered cards will be given free (choice of free card by prettycheap). Just ask for your free card at check out (please purchase 3 items in one transaction).

SumikoShop.etsy.com
Free shipping worldwide shipping all week. Please contact her before buying, She will cancel shipments or mention "Etsy Twitter Team" in the message to seller at checkout.

MeagansDesigns.etsy.com
KaedanKrafts.etsy.com
Offering free worldwide shipping for both of her shops that will be already marked with $0 shipping

InMyHeadStudios.etsy.com
15% off items (not including shipping or NY state sales tax if applicable). Add the comment "Etsy Twitter Sidewalk Sale" during checkout. Discount given via PayPal refund.

ACageyBee.etsy.com
Every order will get a free sampler pack of 4 postcards included in their shipment! In the note to seller box, please mention "Sidewalk Sale" to get your free postcards.

SoapRehab.etsy.com
Free Shipping

Threepeats.etsy.com
All necklaces $5.00 off! After payment, $5.00 will be refunded to the buyer’s PayPal account for each necklace purchased.

SandisTs.etsy.com
Free Shipping - After payment, shipping will be refunded via PayPal

FirebirdHouse.etsy.com
30% off all purchases that total $20 or more. PayPal refund given for discount.

WaysideViolet.etsy.com
20% off all items in my shop: To participate type "May" in the message to buyer. Discount will be refunded via PayPal after purchase

ScrapArcs.etsy.com
All earrings $5 or less per pair. Prices already marked down.

SouthpawStudios.etsy.com
15% off, + Plus free worldwide shipping. Also $5 gift certificate included for future purchases (limit one per customer). Redeemed with code "Sidewalk TW Sale" in message to seller box, then you will receive a prompt PayPal refund

HuayruroPeru.etsy.com
20% discount using PayPal refund to everyone mentioning "Sidewalk Sale" in message to seller box

CuriousMess.etsy.com
Free shipping worldwide.

RhodesAnnalsDesigns.etsy.com
10% off list price - Leave message to seller saying “sidewalk”. She will do a revised invoice or if you have already paid via PayPal she will do a refund.

JaybirdDesigns.etsy.com
all baby and kid items are marked 50% off in special shop section

AquarianBath.etsy.com
Free Lavender Spearmint Lip Balm with purchase of $10 or more. Add the comment "Etsy Twitter Sidewalk Sale" during checkout.

MindyG.etsy.com
Free shipping within the US only (via USPS First Class) with any purchase. Add to message to seller box "sidewalk sale" and you will get a refund through PayPal for the shipping amount.

Jenco13.etsy.com
free shipping to anyone in the USA and a flat rate of $5 to all other countries on her list for items over $20 and $3 for items under $20. Discount given via PayPal refund

TamaraGarvey.etsy.com
With any purchase, get a FREE single card of your choosing from any of the card sets in the Stationary section of her shop. Just include which card you'd like in the Message to Seller box, or contact her soon after purchase.

MissesKwittys.etsy.com
Free USA shipping or Half Price international shipping when you spend $20.00 or more in her Etsy shop. Plus she will be tossing a free little "thank you" present into each package! Just put "EtsyTwitter Rocks" in the note to seller and she will refund the shipping discount back to your PayPal account.

PurpleLemonDesigns.etsy.com
Free Shipping! Use code “SIDEWALK” in the notes to the seller, and she will refund the shipping after the order is paid for through PayPal

BRefour.etsy.com
Most items are already on sale but you can get and additional 10% off on orders of $15.00 or more by entering the words "Sidewalk Sale" in notes to seller. The 10% will be refunded through PayPal.

LindaB142.etsy.com
20% off purchases over $5. Buyers need to use the Promo Code "Sidewalk" and she will refund the discount via PayPal. Free shipping for orders over $30.

Tamdoll.etsy.com
Free domestic shipping on non-ribbon items. Will automatically give a PayPal refund for items not already specially marked as part of the sale.

ArtWhims.etsy.com
Free Shipping on every item in the shop! To redeem this great deal, enter “MAYSIDEWALK” into the message to the seller upon check out. You will be reimbursed through PayPal for the cost of shipping.

DeeJayPhotography.etsy.com
Free shipping! Type "Sidewalk Sale" in Notes to seller to receive a refund via PayPal.

NikkyLeeDesigns.etsy.com
15% off items $20 or more. "Sidewalk" in message to seller to get discount. Wait to pay for revised invoice

AmbientLights.etsy.com
20% off all items*! Please write "May Sidewalk Sale" in notes to seller when checking out and wait for a revised invoice or pay and you will be refunded via PayPal. *discount valid for items only, does not include shipping or taxes if applicable.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Many thanks to SassyCat.etsy.com for creating our sale graphic!! I could not have hoped for something better!! Thank you!!

Spreading Some Etsy Team Love: The Etsy Twitter Team Sidewalk Sale

2009-05-15T16:42:00.005-05:00

The Etsy Twitter Team is having a fantastic sale that starts on Sunday so keep your eyes pealed for participating shops. The full list of shops and the specials they'll be running will be posted on Sunday! Until then, here's a little teaser:

The Etsy Twitter Team is having a Sidewalk Sale to celebrate the spring weather and to get outside a bit! Virtually! Each shop is having a different sale so check them all out. Some extremely great deals will be going on!!

The sales run from Sunday, May 17th to Saturday, May 23rd.
Shops and sales to be announced Sunday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Many thanks to SassyCat.etsy.com for creating our sale graphic!! I could not have hoped for something better!! Thank you!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Why, you might be asking, would a group for Arkansas Artists on Etsy be promoting a Twitter Team sale? It's all in the name of team spirit, because the more teams band together to help each other the more we can all get out of our promos, sales, knowledge and all around Etsy love! AREtsy will be hosting our own summer sale soon and the Etsy Twitter Team has agreed to promote our sale! I'm feeling the love!

Team Swap Time: Spring Tweets Swap

2009-05-14T12:42:00.005-05:00

Brandy of ekioart has graciously accepted the title of Swap Queen for our team! A big thanks to her for helping us all build our group! Swaps are a time consuming thing to organize and we're so glad to have someone willing to take on the job. Brandy will be heading up regular swaps for our team and has already worked up our first challenge. It's a cute one!

Swaps are great fun. They are a way to stretch your creativity, make something you may not think to make otherwise and to trade for someone else's fantastic creation. Sound pretty great? It is! Here are the rules, if you're interested please view the yahoo group link here to see her email address, where you'll send your info. Happy swapping!

Spring Tweets Swap.

This swap will be all about birds. Swallows, Robins, Blue Jays, Mockingbirds,
DoDo's you name the bird this swaps about it! From their adorable and unique nests to
their little flitting tails.

Here's the low down.

A. This swap will be one lovingly crafted item from you to your partner. Lets
say it's a Medium.  Medium is considered (by time) 2 or more hours, (by size)
one single necklace or bracelet, a scarf, (by cost) $10-$30 dollars. Now, if you
want to do a couple of smalls instead of one med that's fine too. And if you
want to do one Large that's fine too, just make sure your partner knows so they
don't feel bad when it arrives and they only sent you a med.

B. Time limit. Lets start this puppy on May 20th and say send outs are June
15th. That's nearly a month to do one swap item. Of course, you can always send
earlier, I just want to give everyone plenty of time as I know there are plenty
of spring things to do!

C. Fill out this form!

               Name of swap: Spring Tweets!
               Etsy username:
               Email address:
               Your real name:
               Mailing address:
               Anything your allergic to?
               Is there any craft you would NOT like to receive?
         Your fav colors, wists, styles, artists?
         Is there something you collect (IE, boxes, tiles, tiny pictures, etc)
               Anything else you want to share with your partner?

All in all, we want you to just have fun with it, get creative and enjoy getting
to know one another!

IF YOU WANT TO PARTICIPATE, REMEMBER TO SEND YOUR INFO TO ORGANIZER
VIA PRIVATE MESSAGE AND NOT TO REPLY WITH IT HERE.
Please send your email with the info to (go to yahoo group thread here for email address)

Suzanne Churchill: Mural and Art Exhibit

2009-05-11T22:43:00.008-05:00

16x80' mural in downtown Blytheville by Suzanne Churchill

AREtsy member and painter Suzanne Churchill has much to celebrate with the recent completion and installation of her mural in downtown Blytheville, Arkansas. The mural is comprised of 40 4'x8' wood panels that had to be transported from Jonesboro, where the artist lives, a trek of about 1.5 hours. That accomplishment is topped off with an exhibition of her paintings at The Ritz in Blytheville, Arkansas for the month of May. Congratulations Suzanne!

Blytheville Bus Station, a painting by Suzanne Churchill that can be viewed at The Ritz in Blytheville, Arkansas through the month of May.

Be sure to visit Suzanne's Etsy shop: arpainter
and her website: Suzanne Churchill Designs

Stefano's Gallery - Open House

2009-05-07T21:05:00.003-05:00

Hey all of you in Little Rock - Teresa of TSmithDesigns will be hosting an open house at Stefano's Gallery next week. There will be wine and goodies... oh, and some great artwork! So if you're in the area, make it out to help support a fellow AREtsy member (and to get that glass of wine!).

The important details:

Stefano's Gallery
5501 Kavanaugh Suite C

Wednesday May 13th

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

I can't wait to hear about the open house!

It's Kind of a Big Deal

2009-05-06T16:10:00.003-05:00

Debby of StarlightDesigns will have her work featured at the Arkansas Studies Institute in downtown Little Rock! The Arkansas Studies Institute is a joint project between the Central Arkansas Library System and the University of Arkansas - Little Rock. Located in the Main Library campus in the River Market District, this is a place where people can learn more about what has shaped our state's past and what guides the future of Arkansas.

If this sounds like a big deal, that is because it is. What a great honor to be featured in such a way! Make sure to drop by and check out her lampwork art - you won't be disappointed!