Blog Feature - Not So Shabby Chic

Some people are talented. I mean really talented. The kind of talented that makes the rest of us go, "Hey! No fair! Share the wealth!" Well, today's feature, Not So Shabby Chic is an example of one of those really talented people. And Rebecca, Not So Shabby Chic's really talented gal, is sharing the wealth in her shop on Etsy. Besides being insanely talented, she's also one of the nicest people you will ever meet. Let's find out some stuff about her!

Don't you just think this decoupaged Victorian roses heart key chain is to die for cute?

Being constantly cold, I feel as if this green merino/acrylic sarflette neckwarmer and I need to be BFF.

Isn't Snowie the Needle Felted Snowman just the cutest little man you've ever seen?

Are you sick of hearing from me yet? Well, on to Rebecca's responses to our five questions!

1) My favorite product to make... hmm that's a tough one... I guess I'll have to go with my needle felted critters, especially when I'm coming up with a new one!

2) I get my inspiration from various sources: I get a lot from nature, I get some from my buyer's requests, and sometimes I get them from other people like family and friends!

3) I have always been a crafter ever since I was a little girl; my mom is very crafty and she always had me involved in making things with her. She taught me how to knit, crochet, and sew when I was around 8 years old, and she also taught me various other crafts. I love making things for other people, but sometimes they don't always appreciate it... but I found I couldn't stop crafting! So, my little shop was born! I figured if people were willing to pay money for my crafts then they would definitely appreciate them. I also found it very cool to think that my crafts would end up all around the world. Needle felting was something I discovered once I came on Etsy, and I loved the look of it so much I decided to teach myself -- and I'm so glad I did!

4) On a rainy Tuesday night you can find me sitting on my couch with my cats, my laptop, and my crafts -- I'm usually busy chatting away in Etsy's chat rooms while simultaneously working on orders or a new item.

5) I have had my hands in various crafts that I don't even have featured in my shop (yet) -- crafts such as quilling and flower-arranging and calligraphy and quilting -- almost nothing is off-limits! I enjoy it all! Through crafting I find a sense of relaxation and I also feel rewarded. I urge anyone who doesn't craft to try and find one to their liking -- there are so many different kinds out there! :)

Okay, if you're not totally in love with Not So Shabby Chic by now, well, you must not be human. Go check it out and enjoy!

Mygiveawaytoday discount

Know what's awesome? The amazing discount that mygiveawaytoday readers get at my etsy store. Know what else is awesome? That you can get both that discount AND use the promotion that's on the etsy store. Yeah. You should probably go check it out.


http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com
http://littlevenicedesigns.etsy.com

Welcome, welcome!

Welcome to Give Away Today folks! So glad to have you here! Look around, see what's going on, and enjoy your shopping! Let us know if there's anything you need - we'll be happy to oblige.

Ending ahead of schedule

The Ideas giveaway is going to end now rather than in two days. Don't worry, there's a really good reason, which you will WANT to tune in for tomorrow. Trust me, it's going to be AMAZING! In the meantime, I need a winner, don't I? Well, that winner is Lynette for the following idea: "I would love to see a cute red and white watch band so it is Valentines day looking but not too cheesy." Girl, I like the way you think. In fact, I liked it so much that I chose you as the winner AND made a preview of this lovely. Tell me what you think, all! Lynette, let's be in contact about how I can get this lil' cutie to you.

Valentine's Day Ideas (aka heartfelt featurettes)

Valentine's Day is coming up. This is an important holiday. Well, I think it is anyway. And those of you who know me in person will know why. Not only am I a girl and not only do I love pink things, but Valentine may just be my last name. Sigh. How cute. And I have a ton of stuff on the Etsy site you can get/give for Valentine's Day, but I'll be the first to admit that for some, jewelry just doesn't work or is too cliche. What ever shall I do, you ask? Well, you keep reading this post, because I have 10 superb ideas from my Etsy friends out there, and these are dang good ideas if I do say so myself.

Option 1: Gift for the nerd in your life.
Who has nerds in their lives? Um, I do. The mister is a big nerd. He is glued to his computer for work, school, and play, so something computer-y works best for him. I, however, am a hopeless romantic, so this really fun and cute personalized keyboard is perfect for both of us. Good job, andyabel!

Option 2: Gift for the pet lover in your life.
I live in an apartment complex that won't let me have pets, and this makes me sad. I want a puppy SO badly! I have friends that have puppies and they love their little cuties so much. So, while I can't have a puppy of my own, I can help my friends celebrate the puppies (or kitties) in their lives with these cute Valentine's Day scarves for pets. Aren't they just so cute? Kidsandpetsboutique, you did an amazing job with these.

Option 3: Gift for the writer  in your life.
I love to write. And doodle. And scribble. Basically, I love paper. I bet if I sat down and counted, I would find 3 gazillion notebooks in my house, and I am constantly buying more. This beautiful leather journal with key is the paper person's perfect pad (did you notice the alliteration). The embossed leather makes it look so classic and inviting that you can't but help to put all your ideas in it. TeoStudios, great work!

Option 4: Gift for the spa-a-holic
I love baths. Who doesn't? I love trips to the spa where I can be treated to wonderful smelling, high quality products that make me look and feel like a million bucks. I don't always have the time or the money to make it to the spa, but I can do a spa at home experience. That's why these cute soaps are so great. Not only can I use them to relax and pamper myself, but every time I look at them I can remember how much the giver of the soaps loves me. Innerearthsoaps gets the credit for this beauty.

Option 5: Gift for the vintage fan
I love vintage, antique things. New things are great, too, but knowing that something is so beautiful and so meaningful that it passes the test of time just adds to the experience of the item. Plus, old fashioned art work just looks so classic and clean - you can't help but just love it. That's why this vintage Valentine postcard is perfect. It can be so meaningful for you and your loved one, and it's so neat to know it meant something just as special to someone else, too. Good find, abbysrelics!

Option 6: Gift for the cuddlebug in your life
Who doesn't love a good cuddle? While I'll admit that there are people who enjoy the cuddle more than others, everyone likes a good snuggle that says, "Hey! I love you and I'll always be here to protect you." That's why I love this cute little love bird. When you're not there to snuggle your cuddlebug, this cute little love bird can do the job for you. Plus, who doesn't just want to stare at this cutie for hours? DogDaemona did a beautiful job with this cutie, don't you think?

Option 7: Gift for the pack rat
I keep everything, and I do mean everything. You never know when you're going to need that one random thing! And truth be told, everything I keep has some sort of meaning for me. The problem is that I run out of places to put these lovely things. So that's why I love this beautifully crafted wooden box. Not only will I be sure to use it, but I can keep my special treasures in the heart you've given me. Awww, great job, dikruck!

Option 8: Gift for the chocolate lover
I don't know how anyone can dislike chocolate, and I don't know how anyone can go a day without any chocolate. So gourmet chocolate is sounding great to me. But it get's better: stick caramel in the middle and you've got a deal - I'll do whatever you want me to do! I am putty in your hands! So not only was I a sucker to love these chocolate caramel truffles, but they are beautiful as well. What could be better? Oh wait, I know - eating them. Nikid, you'll be hearing from me - and soon!

Option 9: Gift for the picture lover
Okay, this might be my favorite idea. We did this for my mom for Mother's Day a few years ago, and she was in tears for a few days. What's better than a picture (after all, they are worth 1000 words)? The only thing is a personalized portrait. Not only does it say, "Hey, I know you like this picture, so I got it for you," but it says, "Hey, not only did I get you something I know you'd like, but look how personal this is." EmmaVasquez is so talented, you'll want to keep her on the list of people you need to know.

Option 10: Gift for the practical and straitforward:
A few years ago, for my Valentine's Day cards, I drew an anatomical heart and wrote "I heart you" on the inside. I thought I was so funny and creative, and everyone laughed SO much when they received them. The only thing that would have been better would be this pill box. Not only is it kind of cute and super funny, but it has a practical use and you can literally keep your heart with them. Good one, nataliesnest!

I hope this gift guide will help you find your perfect gift! Happy shopping for gifts, and happy Valentine's Day!

Don't Forget the Giveaway!

Once upon a time, I was doing a giveaway. That giveaway is set to end in 5 days. That being the case, you may want to enter. http://littlevenicedesigns.blogspot.com/2010/01/ideas-ideas-ideas.html

amanda 0830 - preview

Insomnia makes me...

1. adjust pricing for products and shipping to better suit you all
2. make sure the names of the products are clear
3. clean up the side bar of the blog
4. eat my new favorite treat, bagelfuls
and all from Scouty, my laptop, whilst sitting up in bed

What does insomnia make you do?

My blog feature

I love doing blog features for other artists. And I suppose karma loves that I do those features as well, because someone featured me! Small Dog was nice enough to not only be one of my wonderful friends, but to brag about me as well. Plus she is hilarious. So go check it out!

Blog Feature - Gilliauna’s Bits and Beads

Another week, another blog feature. And I’m so excited to introduce you to Gilliauna’s Bits and Beads store. This shoppe is actually run by two friends, Zoie and Leal, and they are so creative.

Let's look at some of their really REALLY cute stuff, shall we?

This cute earring is so fun and versatile and I probably want it.

 This tranquility stone choker matches everything and it's so dang cute!

 

 I love reading, so this dragonfly's kiss bookmark is right up my alley.

 

And this is only the beginning! Gilliauna's Bits and Beads is full of beautiful pieces that any girl would love to own, to wear, and to give to her friends. But enough of my blabbing - let's hear from the ladies!

1. What is your favorite product to make?

Zoie - I adore working with earrings. I like how delicate they feel to the touch while I'm working on them and I have a hard time not keeping each creation for myself!

Leal - My favorite product to make varries depending on what I'm making at the time. Usually whatever I'm working on becomes my favorite for the duration of a project. At the moment, I'm working on rosaries, which is very exacting and time consuming work, but also very rewarding. They're a new project I'm just starting out with and am enjoying a great deal.

2. Where do you get your inspiration?

Zoie - I'm very drawn to color, all color. So a great deal of my inspiration comes from that. Visually, I can't resist certain combinations of hues and shades and I try and share that enjoyment with others through my craft.

Leal - Primarily nature. I'm a big fan of the outdoors and spend as much time there as possible when weather permits. I bring back with me from those experiences new ideas to incorporate into my work.

3. How did you get started making your products?

Zoie - I've been crafting for my entire life... *Smile* I come from a long line of women crafters. Each generation of women in my family has had certain talents. My mother sews, embroiders and makes wonderful candy and candles... my grandmother was a potter and sculptor as well as made beautiful hand-crafted porcelain dishes. My great-grandmother made lace and did breathtaking embroidery. My mother started me out early looking for what crafts I would take to... and things just progressed from there.

Leal - Zoie got me into crafting when I was young, which I've been doing since soon after I met her. She was a family/spiritual advisor for my family and it wasn't uncommon for her to come over and sit my sister and I down around our coffee table and spend time with us crafting while we talked about our day, beliefs, ideas for holiday celebrations, parents, life, etc. Much to my father's dismay, I stuck with it growing up.

4. It’s Tuesday night and it’s raining. What are you doing?

Zoie - It's been chilly here lately and I like to snuggle myself under a nice soft blanket with a tray in my lap and work on my craft or spend some time reading. Most of my evenings are spent that way. I'm not much of a tv watcher so there's music playing in the background and the quiet hum of the clothes dryer coming from the other room. Sometimes I'll spend that time of day working on pics to load into Etsy as product photos.

Leal - Fitting question since we live wedged between rainforests and mountain terrain. I've usually got the TV on. I might help my twin sister with her homework if she needs it or work on my own if I have anything to finish up. Probably sit at the table and craft for a bit or log on with the laptop and spend it talking to my boyfriend in IMs while promoting and exploring advertising ideas.

5. What else do you want to tell us about you/your product?

We'd love to have more custom orders. We offer them in our shop and both of us are happy to work with customers who are looking for something unique and special that's created just for them or to their specifications to be given as a gift to another.

Don't you just love them so much? I know I do. I'll beat you to their site - ready, set, GO!

Valentine's Day!

It's coming! And you know that you want to get something special for that special someone (including yourself). So why not head over to my Etsy shoppe and look at all of the items with "love" in the title. Between now and February 8th, every item with "love" in the title comes with a free pair of flower earrings. Free. So you should go check it out. In fact, let me give you a preview with these new, beautiful love bird earrings.

Mr. Venice saves the day!

Good thing he gets the internet! No more frownie faces! So sorry for the inconvenience.

Picture Problems

For some reason, during different times of the day, the pictures on the previous post are appearing as giant frownie faces, which makes me frown, too. I'm working to fix it (promise!), but if you get a frownie and you wanna see the real pic, I have linked the words that described the pictures. For now, be patient while I try to fix the internet.

Blog Feature - Wish With Me

Are you ready for the blog features to begin? I know I am, and I'm so excited to feature this fabulous Etsy shoppe called Wish With Me.

Let me show you some of the amazing handmade stuffed animals you can find at Wish With Me's Etsy store, because they are so cute. I kind of want them all...

This cute wish dog is just looking for a cuddle...

Do you think my boss would mind if I brought the tiny turtle playset to work with me?

 I hope the tiny wish fairy makes all my dreams come true!

 

I am a sucker for stuffed animals, especially when they are this cute. And you can tell that they are made with love, which makes them so much more special.

So let's meet Wish With Me!

Here's what Kathie, Wish With Me's creator-extrordinaire, says about the five get-to-know-you questions:
My favorite things to make are my tiny stuffed animals, even though there a bit difficult on my eyes. There just so cute when there finished. :)

My inspiration comes from the memories of my own childhood and the things I liked to play with and remembering all the little things my children used to love to have.

I always wanted to find a way to sell my creations, but never knew how to go about it. I heard of Etsy in a magazine and on the View and I kind of studied all the ins and outs for a couple months. I then saw someone make a dog out of gloves on T.V. and I took that dog and put the Wish with me twist on it. I used buttons, beads, fabrics and imagination. My wish dog was the very first item sold in my shop. I put the word WISH on his belly, because that seemed to say it all. Close to his heart was an embroidered wishing star with a Swarovoski crystal in the center. One of his eyes was encircled with embroidery floss to give him that whimsical, wishful look and I finished off with a little hand crocheted scarf to give him that cozy feeling. I still offer my Wish dog along with about 35 other items. I also have another 30 items I add to my shop here and there.


So it's a Tuesday night, it's raining and I'm usually on the sofa, watching T.V. and sewing, cutting, sketching out new ideas or gathering materials for my next project.

I've been creating things all my life. The best part of what I do is seeing that awesome expression on the face of those I touch with the things I create, and reading the feedback from a customer who just received their package in the mail. My shops name is wishwithme because this shop is the wish I've had for as long as I can remember. I invite my customers and future customers to wish along with me. Some of my best ideas come from my customers. I take great pride in the quality of the things I create. From my half inch stuffed lady bug, to my fourteen inch tall Fuzzy Tummy Wummy. I love the challenge of a custom order.

Now you know Wish With Me, so go check them out!

Ideas, ideas, ideas

It's time (already) to start thinking about Valentine's day. And I would love your help. What jewelry item should I make specifically for Valentine's day? Keep in mind what I already do because that's about my skill level at the moment! If your idea is the one I like the best and I end up making it... I will send you one of those items for FREE. Yes, I said free. Seriously. Free. So how do you enter? Well, leave a comment for me with your idea. The winner will be announced on January 20th, so tune in to see what happens. Alright, now go suggest!