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
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Link Love...do you really love my link?
How many of us have been riding the Link Love train? Don't know what I am talking about? If you have a Facebook Fan Page there is a movement out to increase your fans. Discusssion pages are being created for us all to share the url for our fan pages, etsy shops, blogs, twitters, flickr, or what ever else you may have to promote your business.
It is so much fun to click on all the links, see all the beautiful shops and learn about the great artist that create the items. I have become a fan of an obscene amount of shops, I think I am currently at about 370 or so. I know that is a crazy amount, but I am truly fascinated by what people create and what they have to say about what they create. Even in my spare time I search for how to's, tutorials, other blogs on crafting. So for me it is a real desire to be a fan. But is everyone who fanned my site in the last 2 weeks or so truly my fan?
I saw a post by another shop yesterday who said, "my numbers are moving, I gain a fan and lose a fan", she wondered if the people who had become her fans were really interested in fiber. She sales amazingly beautiful dyed fibers, but how many people really use them. While there is a large "bucket" of knitters, crocheters and felters out there, are all her fans really interested in buying her product.
I have to wonder the same thing, I have had my Jenjie shop for over a year now and my sales would be considered dismal by most. Although I am excited by every sale. I have over 200 fans on my Facebook page for this shop, I know of two sales I have made to fans. Now don't get me wrong I am truly grateful for even two sales, and for every single fan. But like my friend in the fiber arts I wonder if some are clicking just to click..........However, on the other hand, if you clicked and added me maybe I will create something that will spark your interest after all!
So I will just go on creating things that I love and I hope you will love, and hopefully my fans will come to love my items and find something they just have to have. I look forward to more and more fans, however I can get them :)
Today I am creating a new T shirt design that my one of my dear friends suggested last night, a reverse applique design with a wine glass design! I am so super excited about it I can hardly wait to get downstairs and make it.
And if you haven't fanned my page, come on down! I have a link love page too, so share you links!
Jennifer
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/mrsclaussewingroom
It is so much fun to click on all the links, see all the beautiful shops and learn about the great artist that create the items. I have become a fan of an obscene amount of shops, I think I am currently at about 370 or so. I know that is a crazy amount, but I am truly fascinated by what people create and what they have to say about what they create. Even in my spare time I search for how to's, tutorials, other blogs on crafting. So for me it is a real desire to be a fan. But is everyone who fanned my site in the last 2 weeks or so truly my fan?
I saw a post by another shop yesterday who said, "my numbers are moving, I gain a fan and lose a fan", she wondered if the people who had become her fans were really interested in fiber. She sales amazingly beautiful dyed fibers, but how many people really use them. While there is a large "bucket" of knitters, crocheters and felters out there, are all her fans really interested in buying her product.
I have to wonder the same thing, I have had my Jenjie shop for over a year now and my sales would be considered dismal by most. Although I am excited by every sale. I have over 200 fans on my Facebook page for this shop, I know of two sales I have made to fans. Now don't get me wrong I am truly grateful for even two sales, and for every single fan. But like my friend in the fiber arts I wonder if some are clicking just to click..........However, on the other hand, if you clicked and added me maybe I will create something that will spark your interest after all!
So I will just go on creating things that I love and I hope you will love, and hopefully my fans will come to love my items and find something they just have to have. I look forward to more and more fans, however I can get them :)
Today I am creating a new T shirt design that my one of my dear friends suggested last night, a reverse applique design with a wine glass design! I am so super excited about it I can hardly wait to get downstairs and make it.
And if you haven't fanned my page, come on down! I have a link love page too, so share you links!
Jennifer
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/mrsclaussewingroom
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Valentine's Day on Etsy
Love is in the air.... why is it when I say that it is in a little sing song voice in my head? I also immediately think of "The Love Boat"....do any of yall remember that? It was one of my favorite shows when I was growing up. Most people would say ( in a really fake voice) " Oh I am dating myself", but not me. I am so happy to be over 20 and under 50 that I don't care if you know how old I am! I do not however want you to see all my gray hair, and so I will be coloring that today! Okay, okay I digress........ This is suppose to be a Valentine's gift guide of sorts!
Many of you, I hope, have seen my gift guides in the past months. I hope they brought you ideas for your loved ones gifts. For me they are just another excuse to browse Etsy shops. I have to get you all on board with this. Etsy is like window shopping on steroids. EWWW or like potato chips once you get started you just can't stop until someone unplugs your computer.
So here are some shops that have some really cute items for gifts. These can be Valentine's or Brithday gifts, they are all occasions!
This first section is jewelry, I don't make jewelry but I am so in awe of the wonderful selection of jewelry on Etsy.
Meredithbead, http://www.meredithbead.etsy.com/, has a large selection of jewelry groupings. There are a large selection of Judaica, African, Thai, Chinesse, and the list goes on. I asked everyone to send me a link to their favorite listing, Merideth sent me 3 links, two that were favorites of shoppers and one that was her favorite. I choose her favorite, because when an artist has a favorite then there is something special about it!
The Gleeful Peacock, http://www.gleefulpeacock.etsy.com/, shared this lovely headband that would be perfect for any age lady in your life. It has a beautiful lacy feel to it and is really feminine.
JennJennD's shop, http://www.jennjennd.etsy.com/, has a wonderful assortment of all sorts of items. Most of them look good enough to eat. These charms are perfect for bracelets, necklaces, anklets, well just about anything. You can give your sweet a sweet, and not have to work it off in the gym ;)
Valentine's Day has never really been a thing for my husband and I, in fact in 17 years of marriage, I can only really remember one Valentine's when we ever did anything special. So I am always curious this time of the year at what you do for the men in your life, so as a side note comment me and tell me what you do.
Okay so on to other options, if you are not into jewelry there are other options. In fact there are so many I can't cover them all in one blog, so I am going to leave you with a few more cuties and then you can stay tuned for another addition.
This one is from Michelle's Clay Corner, http://www.michellesclaycorner.etsy.com/, who has an amazing assortment of original handmade clay items. Michelle loves creating custom items so if this item inspires you go visit her shop and see what you can find, or message her for a custom item.
Creating your own valentines cards, scrapbook, memory book? Check out this shop for some really cute appliques! Fabric4U, http://www.fabric4u.etsy.com/, they have several to choose from!
Or how about these die cuts, beautiful yellow roses are a wonderful break from traditional red! ScrapingMom1221, http://www.scrapingmom1221.etsy.com/, has lovely, lovely choices , lips, hearts, and much much more to use on your sweeties card. Nothing says I love you more than a handmade card!
And for those of us who don't make our own cards, there is The Paper Button, http://www.thepaperbutton.etsy.com/. I am a big fan of the handwritten sentiment and this is the perfect solution, a beautiful card that you can write your own message on. This is one of many lovely choices:
Lastly I have a couple of pillows, both of these pillows send a clear message to your loved one about how you feel.
First is Petette shop, http://www.petette.etsy.com/ , this shop has amazing pillows with all sorts of great messages, lovely colors and great designs. Check out this pillow that tells your loved one your heart belongs to them, you are "Sold" out in love!
And last but not least, My shop! http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/, go check out this fun mood pillow. I love to do custom work, so let me know if you want a different color to fit your bedroom, or even if you want a different message. This one shows your honey whether Tonight will be the night or NOT!!!!
So I hope you found something lovely, that will inspire you for whatever your gift need! Go check out these shops, or any of the wonderful shops on Etsy. http://www.etsy.com/
More to come this month, now that things have slowed down a bit I will be blogging more!
Happy Shopping!
Jennifer
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/mrsclaussewingroom
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
Many of you, I hope, have seen my gift guides in the past months. I hope they brought you ideas for your loved ones gifts. For me they are just another excuse to browse Etsy shops. I have to get you all on board with this. Etsy is like window shopping on steroids. EWWW or like potato chips once you get started you just can't stop until someone unplugs your computer.
So here are some shops that have some really cute items for gifts. These can be Valentine's or Brithday gifts, they are all occasions!
This first section is jewelry, I don't make jewelry but I am so in awe of the wonderful selection of jewelry on Etsy.
First up is Finding Charm, http://www.findingcharm.etsy.com/. This shop is offering free US Shipping and has really lovely items that are great occasions. Check out this piece with lovely red silk beads:
LiciaBeads: http://www.liciabeads.etsy.com/, I had so many options from this shop I almost couldn't choose. I was drawn to this one because of the name, "Entangled", and isn't that what love is? We become entangled in those we love, we share their hopes, dreams, loves!
LiciaBeads: http://www.liciabeads.etsy.com/, I had so many options from this shop I almost couldn't choose. I was drawn to this one because of the name, "Entangled", and isn't that what love is? We become entangled in those we love, we share their hopes, dreams, loves! Meredithbead, http://www.meredithbead.etsy.com/, has a large selection of jewelry groupings. There are a large selection of Judaica, African, Thai, Chinesse, and the list goes on. I asked everyone to send me a link to their favorite listing, Merideth sent me 3 links, two that were favorites of shoppers and one that was her favorite. I choose her favorite, because when an artist has a favorite then there is something special about it!The Gleeful Peacock, http://www.gleefulpeacock.etsy.com/, shared this lovely headband that would be perfect for any age lady in your life. It has a beautiful lacy feel to it and is really feminine.
JennJennD's shop, http://www.jennjennd.etsy.com/, has a wonderful assortment of all sorts of items. Most of them look good enough to eat. These charms are perfect for bracelets, necklaces, anklets, well just about anything. You can give your sweet a sweet, and not have to work it off in the gym ;) Valentine's Day has never really been a thing for my husband and I, in fact in 17 years of marriage, I can only really remember one Valentine's when we ever did anything special. So I am always curious this time of the year at what you do for the men in your life, so as a side note comment me and tell me what you do.Okay so on to other options, if you are not into jewelry there are other options. In fact there are so many I can't cover them all in one blog, so I am going to leave you with a few more cuties and then you can stay tuned for another addition.
This one is from Michelle's Clay Corner, http://www.michellesclaycorner.etsy.com/, who has an amazing assortment of original handmade clay items. Michelle loves creating custom items so if this item inspires you go visit her shop and see what you can find, or message her for a custom item.
Creating your own valentines cards, scrapbook, memory book? Check out this shop for some really cute appliques! Fabric4U, http://www.fabric4u.etsy.com/, they have several to choose from!Or how about these die cuts, beautiful yellow roses are a wonderful break from traditional red! ScrapingMom1221, http://www.scrapingmom1221.etsy.com/, has lovely, lovely choices , lips, hearts, and much much more to use on your sweeties card. Nothing says I love you more than a handmade card!
And for those of us who don't make our own cards, there is The Paper Button, http://www.thepaperbutton.etsy.com/. I am a big fan of the handwritten sentiment and this is the perfect solution, a beautiful card that you can write your own message on. This is one of many lovely choices:Lastly I have a couple of pillows, both of these pillows send a clear message to your loved one about how you feel.
First is Petette shop, http://www.petette.etsy.com/ , this shop has amazing pillows with all sorts of great messages, lovely colors and great designs. Check out this pillow that tells your loved one your heart belongs to them, you are "Sold" out in love!
And last but not least, My shop! http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/, go check out this fun mood pillow. I love to do custom work, so let me know if you want a different color to fit your bedroom, or even if you want a different message. This one shows your honey whether Tonight will be the night or NOT!!!!So I hope you found something lovely, that will inspire you for whatever your gift need! Go check out these shops, or any of the wonderful shops on Etsy. http://www.etsy.com/
More to come this month, now that things have slowed down a bit I will be blogging more!
Happy Shopping!
Jennifer
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/mrsclaussewingroom
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
Thursday, December 31, 2009
2009, thoughts and things
2009 has been full of firsts for me. All of them have been learning experiences! And even if they were not the experiences I wanted or expected they were good in their own way. 2009 saw me make my first Etsy sale, I found my niche, I learned how to promote myself and I found that my crafts have value. There is nothing more thrilling than selling something you have created and getting great feedback from those who bought from you. I ended the years sales last night with a sell of 3 fabric postcards I made months ago. The thrill when I received the email in my box was the same as the first time I made a sell. I hope that 2010 will bring more sales, but more importantly more connections with great people who love creating wonderful, beautiful items, and those who love buying these same items.
I look forward to creating more great items this year, and sharing the crafting and creating with you. I love sharing the ups and downs and I feel as if you are all out there supporting me, and that is a great feeling.
I wish you all a happy 2010 full of God's blessings! Can't wait to see what the new year brings.
Jennifer
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.jenjiestuff.com
http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
I look forward to creating more great items this year, and sharing the crafting and creating with you. I love sharing the ups and downs and I feel as if you are all out there supporting me, and that is a great feeling.
I wish you all a happy 2010 full of God's blessings! Can't wait to see what the new year brings.
Jennifer
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.jenjiestuff.com
http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Contest!!!!! GiveAway!!!!
Last year when I started my Jenjie shop on Etsy it took me a long time to get fans and followers of that shop. In the last year I have learned a lot about Etsy, promotion and such. But I still don't want to take all year to build up my newest shop..... so I am having a giveaway on facebook in hopes that you will bring your friends to my shop.
Here are the rules: this is based on the number of new fans you can bring to my fan page. Suggest my page to your friends and have them post your name on my wall between now the end of January. The fan with the most name post (by other fans) on my page will win a custom stocking with 1 name and 1 design. This is a $30.00 value. You get to pick the design and size of the stocking.
Thank you all for your support!
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
Happy Holidays!
Jennifer
Here are the rules: this is based on the number of new fans you can bring to my fan page. Suggest my page to your friends and have them post your name on my wall between now the end of January. The fan with the most name post (by other fans) on my page will win a custom stocking with 1 name and 1 design. This is a $30.00 value. You get to pick the design and size of the stocking.
Thank you all for your support!
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
Happy Holidays!
Jennifer
Monday, December 21, 2009
A few links I would like to share!
So everyone is so busy this week that I don't want to take up too much of your time with a long and wordy blog. Besides I read in a chat room tonight that the only way you will every have a great blog is if you are very funny! WEllllllll you guys have been reading, so I guess you know if I am very funny or not , LOL!!!
At any rate here are a couple of links I want you to check out. This first blog is a great fun blog full of great stories, recipes, pics, etc..... You will love it!
http://bellestalesandmore.blogspot.com/
From this blog you can link over to her website which has more short stories, poems, etc. She also has a kid's blog which is a lot of fun, she needs some followers and she loves interaction and comments, so go check her out and show her some love!
The next link is self serving!
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
I have opened my new Christmas shop and would love it if you guys would check it out on Etsy, fan me on facebook, etc..... I am actively taking orders all year for custom stockings. The earlier you get your order in for next year the more time we have to refine the design and make it perfect for your family.
I also had to add a tiered pricing for these stockings, with the cost of fabric and designs it was a necessity. I will work with you if you need to order multiple stockings you can contact me for a discount on orders of 3 or more stockings.
Happy Holidays to each and everyone of you! I hope that this time of the year is full of love and joy, peace and happiness.
Thanks for hanging out with me this year, I look forward to next year!
Jennifer
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.com
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
At any rate here are a couple of links I want you to check out. This first blog is a great fun blog full of great stories, recipes, pics, etc..... You will love it!
http://bellestalesandmore.blogspot.com/
From this blog you can link over to her website which has more short stories, poems, etc. She also has a kid's blog which is a lot of fun, she needs some followers and she loves interaction and comments, so go check her out and show her some love!
The next link is self serving!
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.etsy.com
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
I have opened my new Christmas shop and would love it if you guys would check it out on Etsy, fan me on facebook, etc..... I am actively taking orders all year for custom stockings. The earlier you get your order in for next year the more time we have to refine the design and make it perfect for your family.
I also had to add a tiered pricing for these stockings, with the cost of fabric and designs it was a necessity. I will work with you if you need to order multiple stockings you can contact me for a discount on orders of 3 or more stockings.
Happy Holidays to each and everyone of you! I hope that this time of the year is full of love and joy, peace and happiness.
Thanks for hanging out with me this year, I look forward to next year!
Jennifer
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.mrsclaussewingroom.com
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Dahlonega-GA/Mrs-Claus-Sewing-Room/211323905771
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
Friday, December 18, 2009
A new shop is on its way!
I have often wondered why someone would open a new Etsy shop, I mean good grief isn't one shop enough for anyone to keep up with? The answer to that question is yes! It is enough to keep one shop up. Yet I have polled the chat rooms and forums to understand why this happens and I have found that there are good and valid reasons for having two shops. Not only that, but given my current success with my Christmas Stockings I have decided to open a second shop myself. It may seem a little premature, but it is a thought that will not leave me alone and when that happens I find that I need to do it!
I will be opening in the next week or so a new shop dedicated to Christmas items, I have a whole brain full of wonderful ideas and new great items that I am just dying to get started on......well that is after I have given myself a couple of days to rest. I am super excited about this shop and its potential. For the last little while with my Jenjie Stuff shop I have felt adrift....not really sure of what I was doing and not really having any sales! This shop feels right, it feels like home, I can almost see it in my head and I know what it would look like live.
If this shop were reality it would be on the square in Dahlonega. As you walk in the door you are transported instantly, the walls are painted cranberry with murals that make you feel like you are in a winter village. There are large trees decked out with handmade ornaments and covered in twinkling lights and bows. There are shelves of wood holding books and cards and other assorted items. Hot chocolate and coffee and chocolate chip cookies are always available. My handmade stockings and tree skirts are hung all around the walls. Children come in for story time and sit in the corner listening intently as they are read too. Mother's and Grandmothers browse through my items to find the perfect gift for their family and I sit behind my machine right there in the store creating new items and basking in the glow of my little world......
But this isn't a reality store, it is a virtual store! So instead I will work to find the perfect banner, avatar, and I will fill my store with fabulous items. I hope you will all come visit me. I will be blogging and giving you a preview when I get it ready to go! Until then, have a wonderful holiday, and if you don't celebrate the holidays then have a great couple of weeks!
Jennifer
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
I will be opening in the next week or so a new shop dedicated to Christmas items, I have a whole brain full of wonderful ideas and new great items that I am just dying to get started on......well that is after I have given myself a couple of days to rest. I am super excited about this shop and its potential. For the last little while with my Jenjie Stuff shop I have felt adrift....not really sure of what I was doing and not really having any sales! This shop feels right, it feels like home, I can almost see it in my head and I know what it would look like live.
If this shop were reality it would be on the square in Dahlonega. As you walk in the door you are transported instantly, the walls are painted cranberry with murals that make you feel like you are in a winter village. There are large trees decked out with handmade ornaments and covered in twinkling lights and bows. There are shelves of wood holding books and cards and other assorted items. Hot chocolate and coffee and chocolate chip cookies are always available. My handmade stockings and tree skirts are hung all around the walls. Children come in for story time and sit in the corner listening intently as they are read too. Mother's and Grandmothers browse through my items to find the perfect gift for their family and I sit behind my machine right there in the store creating new items and basking in the glow of my little world......
But this isn't a reality store, it is a virtual store! So instead I will work to find the perfect banner, avatar, and I will fill my store with fabulous items. I hope you will all come visit me. I will be blogging and giving you a preview when I get it ready to go! Until then, have a wonderful holiday, and if you don't celebrate the holidays then have a great couple of weeks!
Jennifer
http://www.facebook.com/jenjiestuff
http://www.jenjie.etsy.com
http://www.twitter.com/jenjie73
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