Are Supplies Really Necessary?

Photo Courtesy of massdistraction

 As someone who makes handmade jewelry and glass beads, I have a bead addiction problem. So, of course supplies are necessary!

But...is it really necessary for the big "handmade" sites to sell supplies as part of their offerings?

Yes, there are handmade supplies. Lampwork beads are considered as much on many sites.

But do these sites, that promote themselves as handmade, really need to scores of other supply shops, offering made in China merchandise alongside those supplies handmade one by one? Isn't this in conflict somewhat with the mission of these sites, to support the handmade lifestyle and artist?

If you are a source for handmade products, then *everything* allowed should be handmade by individual artists--even the supplies.

I'm curious to hear what other artists think about this situation--should Etsy, Artfire, and Zibbet have a supply section that allows re-sellers and importers? Is this of benefit to handmade crafters because they can in theory shop on the same site that they sell? Or is this just a ploy to cushion the earnings of the sites on the backs of handmade artists?

My opinion? I think allowing resellers and importers, even when they are properly identified, undermines the "mission" of these handmade sales venues. If you are a source for handmade products, then *everything* allowed should be handmade by individual artists--even the supplies. I would gladly do my shopping elsewhere for my crystals and chains that fill out my jewelry creations.

Let me know what you think. Let me know if my bringing this up ticks you off. Or is it a non-issue?

Friday Fun Finds is Back!

One of my favorite posts was always doing the Friday Fun Finds, so of course, I had to bring them back! I love looking at the work of handmade artists, and this gives me the perfect excuse to spend some time browsing the online shops of the creative.

I'm not sure about where you live, but Spring decided to take her own, sweet time arriving this year. It felt like we were going to have barren trees and dreary, cold days forever! Then, like magic, the trees decided to rebel and unfurled their leaves--one of the sure signs that winter has been kicked to the curb. So in celebration of spring being better late than never, I offer you some beautiful handmade trees.

A gorgeous Carnelian Tree Pendant, by LOC Designs. Found in their Zibbet Shop!

Next, Magnolias no2, a beautiful fine art print, by Jessica Doyle. Found in her Etsy shop.

Finally, this Blackbird and Branches Aluminum Cuff by K. Murphy Designs. Found in their Artfire Shop.

What fun finds have you discovered in our theme of trees?

Featured Artist: Jennifer of Jennifer Lynn Productions

I love photography of unusual objects. It takes a special eye to see the physical world and capture an object within that is spiritual and meaningful. When I visited Jennifer Lynn Productions' shop, I immediately saw a number of photos that captured my attention--I love her subject matter which runs from the mundane shown in a artistic way, to her graveyard scenes, which are full of emotion. In addition, Jennifer also makes mixed media art, jewelry & handbags.



What does it mean to you to "buy handmade"?
What it means to me is that the buyer and the artisan build a personal relationship. The buyer sees where his/her goodies come from, how they are made, how the materials are sourced. The artisan may share some of their techniques, or even the stories behind what they make. There is usually a relationship built between seller and buyer, and often the products are created in a sustainable way. You know no one is being exploited.

How long have you been active in your craft?
I have been artistic all of my life. I have been actively trying to sell what I make probably for close to ten years. I had another venture, with a friend, before I started my current business.


What inspires your work?
Lots of things inspire my work: colors, feelings, folklore/mythology, conversations, my dreams, even my family. Often, it's the materials that spark an idea for a certain piece. I'll see a piece of fabric for instance, and it will seem to tell me: "I need you to make me into a ..." It's very strange. I don't quite know how to explain it! LOL!

Where do you sell your creations?
http://jenniferlynnproductions.artfire.com , http://jlynnpro.etsy.com , http://jlynnpro.redbubble.com . I'm in the process of emptying the Etsy shop, but as long as I have items there, I will sell through it.

Are there any special accolades you have earned in your field?
I have, for two years in a row, won blue and red ribbons in a local arts show for both my photography and my mixed media pieces.

Featured Artist: Michelle of Creative Critters

This week's featured artist is another talented artist with clay. Michelle, of Creative Critters, creates these amazingly-detailed, small scale sculptures out of polymer clay.

What does it mean to you to "buy handmade"?
Buying handmade means purchasing something an individual created with their own hands, versus a mass produced item manufactured by a large corporation. When an individual makes something there is more pride involved, generally speaking. I certainly prefer to buy from fellow artisans whenever possible. So far I've never been disappointed with the products I've received.


How long have you been active in your craft?
Since I was old enough to sculpt Play-Doh! I really got serious about sculpting around the age of 22 or 23. I began buying all the how-to books I could find, and tried to learn as much as possible about the art. I keep some of my early projects around to remind myself just how far I've come over the last 10 years or so, as well as to remind myself that there are no limits to what I can achieve creatively. I began sewing my cloth dolls around the age of 29 or 30, after my friend gave me a "Make Your Own Waldorf Doll" kit. I don't use the name "Waldorf" on my dolls though, because I've created my own patterns and just used that original kit as a learning tool. As for the knitted animals, my friend taught me how to knit about 3 years ago. I've always loved stuffed animals, so when I found books with patterns for knitted stuffed toys, I was off and running! Of course, I've also adapted all those patterns and come up with completely new ones as my skills have progressed.


What inspires your work?
Fantasy, for one thing. If you look in my shop you'll find lots of fantasy sculptures, as well as my line of plush World of Warcraft characters. I also find a lot if inspiration in the natural world. I love plants, animals, and all sorts of wild places. I can find inspiration in just about anything, really. My imagination is a fertile playground, with new ideas sprouting up all the time!

Where do you sell your creations?
I sell my work at http://creativecritters.artfire.com, and I have a blog at http://creativecrittersblog.blogspot.com where I sometimes add more information about items for sale, projects I'm currently working on, and a variety of other topics.

Have you received any special accolades in your field?
Several of my pieces have been featured in Polymer Cafe Magazine including Scorch the Rockin' Dragon (Feb. 09) and my Miniature Log Cabin sculpture (Oct. 08). One of my handsewn cloth dolls was featured in Creative Home Arts magazine as well.

Featured Artist: Linda of Buttonwilloe

My first thought when I saw this week's featured artist was that her work couldn't possibly be handmade! But no, it is just years of experience that allows Linda of Buttonwilloe to make incredible hand-sculpted figures out of clay. I am truly amazed at her talent and skill, which is why I am happy to have her as a featured artist!


What does it mean to you to "buy handmade"?
To me, it means someone has put their time, love and part of themselves into creating something very special. When an artist creates an original design, I like the term "heartmade", because original designs are often an extension of who we are and sometimes reflect our personality and lifestyle.

How long have you been active in your craft?
I started sculpting little figures and giving them as gifts when I got married in 1972. Early in the 1980's, I sold at my very first craft show in a friend's home.



What inspires your work?
The sweet face of a little baby. The purr of a kitten, and the happy tail of an excited puppy. Babies of any species in general...except creepy crawlies. I truly believe our talents and abilities are gifts from our loving God, and that we are all "precious in His sight." It's my hope that my little creations will bless your heart and make you smile.



Where do you sell your creations?
Since the early 1980's I've been selling at arts and crafts festivals in Southern California, where I live. You can check them out at www.sugarplumcrafts.com and www.Harvestfestival.com. I also do a craft fair in my hometown called Nutcracker Boutique. I sell online at www.buttonwilloe.artfire.com.


Are there any special accolades you have earned in your field?
In 2002, the Harvest Festival honored me with "best in show" at the Long Beach location. It was so exciting. The staff came to my booth, literally with bells and whistles, and presented me with a beautiful plaque that I have displayed in my booth ever since. I also received "most festive booth" and the "Heart of Sugar Plum" awards at Sugar Plum Festival. Last year Sugar Plum honored those of us who have been participating in their shows over 20 years. There were only six of us. It was a very sweet and memorable occasion.

Featured Artist: Artisan Goods by Gayle

I am always truly amazed when I come across an artist who does their craft well. I'm even more amazed when I come across an artist who does *many* things well! Gayle, of Artisan Goods by Gayle, is a self-taught photographer and crafter. Her work reveals a love of culture and a diversity of style.

What does it mean to you to "buy handmade"?
In my opinion, handmade gifts still retain major credibility as being the most "thoughtful" (ie. "it's the thought that counts"). As an artisan, I know how much thought, skill and passion goes into a piece. Unlike mass produced products, handmade artisan items exhibit individualism which is an appealing aspect to me. If there is a back story shared, then it can actually influence my decision to purchase. Also, as a struggling artisan myself, I fully realize the importance of supporting my fellow colleagues so that they can continue to create, too.



How long have you been active in your craft?
Photography I was self taught during the 1970s I had my own small local photo business until I was forced to close it due to the recession. I began actively selling my fine art photos again in 2003. Jewelry was learned and apprenticed in handwrought silverwork during the early 1970s at an international art institute in another country. I didn't immediately pursue it after returning to the states due to costs and life in general, then began creating and selling my current OOAK styles in 2007. I began creating my conceptual soft sculpture art dolls, accent pillows and art cards in the year 2000

What inspires your work?
My inspiration comes from all that I am exposed to, be it cultures, nature, poetry, films, atmosphere, whimsy, color, heritage, memories, shape and textures. My work conveys my delight in simple pleasures and a passion for life.


Where do you sell your creations?
Currently my only shop is at Artfire. I am currently looking at other venues.

Are there any special accolades you have earned in your field?
Thus far, my fine art photos have received numerous awards, won contests, been used for teaching examples, and have been added to private collections.

Lovely Surprise!

There is nothing better for a lampwork bead artist to see their beads made into gorgeous jewelry. The other day I happened to recognize the name of ArtFire's Item of the Hour artisan, as she had bought some of my beads a while back.

As I browsed The Beaded Lily's Artfire shop, imagine my delight when I found two beautiful pieces featuring my beads! I decided to share them here, like a proud momma!







This piece, entitled Chocolate Cherry Velvet Necklace, featured one of my focal beads, and some unique chocolaty rhodonite. So decadent!










In A Bit of Bedu necklace, some of my lampwork lentils are paired with turquoise crystals, mother of pearl and silver. I can totally see this necklace with a gorgeous southwest-styled outfit!

Life's A Beach!!

I am in the process of moving, which is never fun! To help make it through I am dreaming often of kicking back and relaxing at a beautiful, peaceful beach by the ocean. It seems only fitting to highlight some beautiful handmade works that can help bring a little bit of the beach to you, wherever you may be! All are from shops on Artfire.






This beautiful Beach Watch is by MySRCreations. They have watches made with all sorts of miniatures in every theme imaginable!











This Beach-in-a-Bottle Charm is made by Treasures from Hawaii. I think the shop name says it all!












This fun Summer Plate is by Nikkidoodle. Even the back of the plate is decorated and signed by the artist.



















Can you imagine this Ivory Beach Shell Frame by beachgrasscottage showcasing your favorite vacation from your latest beach venture?













Last, by not least by a mile, is this gorgeous Beach Comber bracelet by Freshwater Designs. The bracelet features artisan made lampwork and sterling beach-themed charms!

And the Winner is....

After dealing with my internet being down last night, I am back and ready to announce the winner and answers of the Lampwork Treasure Hunt!

The winner is: Susan Wells of swellsthings.etsy.com ! Susan wins a pair of my handmade lampwork earrings!

Were you wondering what the answers were to the treasure hunt? They are revealed below, with a photo and link to the Etsy listing!

Treasure #1
1) Stephen King wrote about a dark one.
2) Only mail deer have these (use the singular!)
3) Free term: lampwork

Tower of Strength by juliechristie


















Treasure #2
1) If you have too much of something, you are up to your...
2) These are meant to decorate your ears
3) Free term: divas

Eyeball Earrings by JanelDudleyBeads














Treasure #3
1) A type of dark chocolate cake
2) A muffin's sweeter cousin
3) Free term: divas

Chocolate Devil's Food Cupcake by HollysFollyGlass





















Treasure #4
1) These are a girl's best friend
2) This can be cloudy, sunny or dark
3) Free term: divas

Diamonds in the Sky by Glass Addictions


















Treasure #5
1) Adjective for someone who loves their country
2) Jewelry that hangs from a necklace
3) Free term: divas

Three Cheers for the Red, White & Blue by LAJewelryDesigns




















Treasure #6
1) He brings happiness on his wings
2) She opened a box of trouble
3) Free term: divas

Bluebird of Happiness by islandgirl




















Treasure #7
1) Man's best friend
2) Beware the curse of the monkey's...
3) Free term: divas

Zoe's Friends Paw Print Focal by infernoglassbeads




















Thanks again to everyone who played with us! :)

Friday Fun Finds 6.5.2009

Thank God it's Friday! Nothing like relaxing on the weekend with a little music serenade. Each of these handmade items has music in it's soul, and is sure to nourish yours as you kick back and relax. All of these items were found on Artfire!






1957 Elegant Music Tags by PetitPoulailler

















Musical Throw Pillow Case by RLP Photo Press



















Shaded Strings by The Infinite Lens




















Electric Guitar Upcycled Domino Pendant by Ninja Jenn

















Hula Girls Guitar Pick Earrings by The Birds and the Beads














Summer Night Mixed Media Guitar by CT Studios

All About Handmade News

As some of you know, I am a columnist for a new website aimed at being an amazing resource for the handmade artist, handmadenews.org . I am really impressed with the quality of the articles coming out of this website (and not just because I write some of them)!

I will take time each week to share not only the current articles I have written for the Business Tips department, but some of the best articles from the rest of the site as well.

So without further adieu...

MUST READS from Handmadenews.org

This week we have tackled Accounting & Paperwork in the Business Tips department. Please check out my Is Your Price Right? to help you think about all that needs to be figured into the price of your product, and Stay Sane with Filing to get some tips on organizing and filing paperwork for the small business.

A very fun article, in the aptly named "Just for Fun" department gives you a quiz to take to see if you maybe take your crafting a little too seriously. Are You and Obsessive Crafter? pokes fun at all of us who have, in the past, been sucked into the craft zone.

Next, for all of you color-lovers out there comes Color Toys and Joys! Every handmade artist has debated over color themes at some point, and this article list some tools to help you make your decision.

Finally, for this first week on my blog, I am going to feature a whole department as a must read. The Green Wise department is full of articles about going green with your crafts and your life. With articles about using found materials to make crafts, to more serious topics such as what is really in your make-up, this department has a number of fantastic pieces sure to inform.

So be sure to visit handmadenews.org when you are looking for crafting information. But be careful--it's easy to lose yourself in the pleasure!

Handmade News!

I am so excited to be part of a new venture aimed at taking the pulse of the handmade movement. Handmadenews.org is a brand new, daily online news magazine full of information of interest to anyone who creates or loves to buy handmade goods!

I am currently a columnist in the Business Tips section. Even though Handmadenews.org has just gotten off of the ground, I have already had two of my columns published. Please check them out! The first, Finding Your Niche, talks about how you can combine passions to create one-of-a-kind art that will be in demand. The second, What's in Your Name, talks about the importance of naming your online business.

In addition to Business Tips, Handmadenews.org also has daily columns in Craft Techniques, Marketing, Craft Trends, Going Green, and much more! Be prepared to spend some time browsing the articles! There will truly be a treasure trove of information available for the handmade artisan.

I will still be posting my blog here, but I am going to focus more on presenting new-found handmade artists and trends, since my business-focused columns will be on Handmadenews.org . If you would like to be a featured artist, or know someone that would be great to feature, please email me at handmadechicblog@gmail.com!

Hot for ArtFire!

Last week I talked about how Etsy made selling handmade cool. Now, I have to admit, I have found something I think is even cooler.

There are a number of new sites aiming to refine the handmade online experience. ArtFire is one of those sites, and in my humble opinion, they are going to give Etsy a run for their not-so-proverbial money.

I signed up for ArtFire a few months ago. At first, I was dissapointed in their layout, especially once you got into the categories. It seemed like it would be pure chance that anyone would ever find my beads, and I became hesitant to invest to much in my ArtFire shop.

However, members of my online groups kept praising how great the ArtFire team is at responding to feedback. A few days ago, I went back for a real look-see at the site. It is amazing!

First off, each category has a section up top for random items to be featured at the top of the item page. These are random, not paid for by the artists, like the seldom noticed Etsy features that run at the top of item pages (never noticed those? I hardly do either!). Next, they have created an interface where you can sort items by price, time listed, and number of views. If you are one of those people who get a rush "discovering" a new artist, ArtFire gives you countless ways to get your fix.

Second is the fact that every item listed gets on the front page, and it is in a nice large format, not that tiny little filmstrip Etsy has running. They also have a great search feature that lets you decide if you want to include supplies and vintage in your quest. You can then narrow down your items further by price, or excluding certain terms. They have made finding items very easy for you.

Finally, we have to talk about price. While Etsy is affordable, I found that I was regularly having bills of over $20 when I would list regularly. The listing fees were on .20 but they would add up quickly with the 3.5% commission. ArtFire does it different, very different. If you only want to have 10 items in your shop at one time, you can have an ArtFire shop for free. Yes, FREE! If you usually keep more items stocked, you pay a flat monthly fee. Right now (and for the next week), you can sign up and only pay $12 a month for everything. No matter how much you list or how much you sell, you will only have to pay ArtFire $12 each month.

I know that this might not be the best choice for everyone, but if you want to budget exactly what your expenses will be for selling online, this may be for you. I personally love it.

This really is not to say that I don't like Etsy anymore. I still do, and will keep my shop there are well. But, if what I have seen so far is any indication, ArtFire will force Etsy to step up to the plate and become more responsive to its sellers.

Featured Artists: Fire Divas

This week's featured "artist" is actually a collection of lampwork artists who have come together with a common purpose: to advance their love of handmade glass beads.

Originally formed as a street team on etsy, the members had known each other through the popular lampwork forum, lampworketc.com. As time passed, the core group of members wanted to remain connected yet move beyond just one venue. The name of the group was changed, members re-committed to the group's goals, and Fire Divas was born.

Every member of Fire Divas is committed to offering only the best handmade lampwork beads and sculpture, while supporting each other's artistic endeavors. The group may boast some well-known lampworkers, but no one person is valued above any other. Each and every artist contributes to the success of Fire Divas as a whole.

Fans of handmade lampwork beads should know that members of Fire Divas have shops on both etsy and ArtFire; search "Fire Divas" on these sites to find the beatiful offerings the Divas have for you!

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade firedivas.etsy.com

Online Venues; Which Do You Prefer?

There are so many online venues for independent artisans to sell their creations today. Each venue has their positives and negatives, but all of them have allowed us to reach customers we never would have met otherwise!

In upcoming posts, I will be discussing the major online venues, looking at how they help, and sometimes hurt, the independent artist. For now, I want to know which of the online venues you currently use to sell your goods. The poll will be up for a week, so you can always come back later if you don't have time right now!