Well if you read my last blog you saw that I questioned that the fans from the link love movement really loved my shop or were just seeking large numbers. This blog was motivated from another shop who observed that their fans numbers were moving during the day, up and down. I, too, had noticed that same sort of movement and knowing that I don't overly update to the point that I feel like I am being annoying ;) I was thinking that some had become my fans just temporarily.
I will say that since link love I have made two sales in a week and I have nothing to attribute it to other than great exposure. I haven't add any new items, or re listed any more frequently than I normally do. I know, I know two sales in a week is not a rush!!! But when you are struggling to get noticed it is a reason for celebration! So on the Link Love subject I stand corrected, and as I said in my last blog, I WELCOME all fans, no matter why you are here! The more the merrier. For whatever reason you fanned me, I hope you will stick around, comment, like, and suggest me to your friends.
Now the other thing I have on my mind with regards to crafting, sewing, Etsy and the like.
It is this, Handmade is NOT Cheapmade. This is driving me crazy! I see time and again on Etsy's Alchemy request for items where the ideal price is grossly understated.
I can't attest to all mediums, but buying hand sewn items is generally not cheaper than buying at a chain store. One of the big reasons for this is the cost of fabric. The fabric that we buy is in a smaller volume. We don't get the by the bolt price, even though most of us would love to have bolts of fabric! Typically we purchase in small volume from a local retailer whenever possible. Along with fabric, there is buttons, elastic, zippers, liners, and all those together will cost more than a factory produced item. All that without factoring in the cost of the labor to produce. I am sure that the challenge that seamstresses face are similar to those of other artist who create all the amazing items you can find on Etsy or other handmade sites.
When you shop handmade do it with these things in mind. You are creating true Economic stimulus! Handmade artist are producing their items locally and general stimulating that local economy. You are getting an item from an artist who is passionate about what they create and about your experience with their product. Your returning business and referrals to your friends are what drives their future success. They are invested in you! If a mega store loses your business, there is always another customer to replace you. With handmade, if we lose your business, we have lost a lot! While we hope to provide you with a product that is a value, it will not necessarily be a "deal" compared to the retail market.
I love to see all my blog followers and I encourage you to comment my blog, tell me what you like, give me your opinions! I want to hear from you!
Stop in and see me soon!
Jennifer
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.facebook.com/mrsclaussewingroom
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
Saturday, February 13, 2010
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I really agree that handmade is not cheapmade! I make each and every one of my shirts by hand, and I can't tell you how much it bothers me that people post on Alchemy for ridiculously cheap prices (for example, three shirts for $20). That doesn't even cover the costs of the blank shirts, vinyl cutter machine, vinyl, and heat press that I am still paying off, let alone the time I spend making sure it is all aligned, properly pressed, etc.
ReplyDeleteGreat post!
Java Jess,
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for commenting this blog. I am glad to know that I am not the only one who has issues with this on Etsy. I talk to Etsians who don't even attempt Alchemy at all.
Keep reading :)
Jennifer