Rodmas Creations

Red Gifts under 50

2011-11-22T06:19:00.000-08:00

Fabric Covered Buttons - Sunbonnet Sue with Teddy Bear - Size 44 28mm 1 1/8" - Set of 4

2011-11-20T02:39:00.000-08:00

A set of 4 fabric covered buttons with Sunbonnet Sue on them. Sue is sitting with a lovely teddy bear in her arms.

Power of Treasury

2011-11-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

We have been featured in N.A. 's Treasury and it has brought us lots of traffic and a sale ! This is our first experience on the power of treasury.

Sunbonnet Sue Fabric Covered Buttons, and Pin Backs

2011-11-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

We're going to list some Sunbonnet Sue Fabric Covered Buttons and Pin Back Buttons this week.

Come to our Etsy store and have a look.

They're really cute and adorable.

CLOSED Giveaway - Christmas Treasure Hunting

2011-11-01T00:16:00.001-07:00

It is already November, Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming soon. We would like to share our joy with you. There will be a game at Rodmas Creations to give away 1 item each day for FREE in this week.

Start and End Date

1Nov2011 to 7Nov2011

How to enter?

Check our blog at blogger or our web site, you can find hints for the daily treasury hunting.
Visit our shop at Etsy.
Find out the item with "Treasure Hunting" in product description.
Purchase the item and we'll refund to you after that. Or send me a conversation on Etsy. First come first serve.
Favorite our shop, follow us on twitter, like our facebook page
You will then get the treasure you've found.

Prize

1 item from our Etsy shop will be selected randomly each day, which includes handmade bags, fabric covered buttons, handmade soap and crafting supplies, ranging from $2 USD to $20 USD.

Prize Delivery Date

Prize will be shipped upon the end of event.

Each person can enter ONCE only

The first hint is : Christmas

Purple Clematis Applique A5 size Notebook Cover Giveaway Result

2011-10-31T22:10:00.000-07:00

Natalie, congratulations, you're the winner of Purple Clematis Applique A5 size Notebok Cover Giveaway. I've sent an email to you for the delivery address.

New Bag - Handmade Navy Blue Sakura Drawstring Tote

2011-10-25T08:36:00.001-07:00

Haven't listed bags for a long time, here is the newest tote.

I love this one very much, originally wanted to make it as my lunch bag.

However, I mainly work at home now and it is not necessary to me anymore, so decided to sell it instead.

The fabric was bought in my Taiwan Trip years ago. I love this very much.

TT Team Chain Game Round 5 #1

2011-10-20T08:48:00.001-07:00

Etsy Treasury - I love Sky Blue

2011-10-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

Sky Blue is always my favorite color. Larimar is my favorite gemstone. People say it helps creativity which is what I need now.

Austria Trip 2011 - Day 1

2011-10-10T05:07:00.000-07:00

We departed from Hong Kong at 2:10am and arrived Doha at around 5:35am, and then change flight from Doha to Vienna after around 3 hours. Arrived Vienna at 13:30.The service of Qatar is excellent. The best idea was using stickers to indicate your order during your sleep - don’t disturb, wake me for meal or wake me for duty free shopping. The meal is okay. The Older Airbus in our second flight was not very nice however.

Doha International Airport is being renovated and expanded (there will be a new one in 2012). The airport is old - still using bus to take people from the plane to the terminal. They use colours to help people to get to the right place. The airport is built on desert and we saw much sands. Islamic buildings are beautiful.

We realised having long and short flights is better idea because you can have better sleep. Actually I didn't have much sleep in both flights and was extremely sleepy and exhausted after we arrived Austria.

Our first stop was Salzburg, so we took Railjet from Vienna to Salzburg.

We arrived Achat hotel at Salzburg after 18:00, there was a Subway nearby. Hence we bought sandwiches for dinner. I chose turkey, ham, beacon, American cheese, salad, tomato, honey mustard dressing which was quite delicious. Actually I have never tried Subway in Hong Kong as there are not many Subway here.

Austria is so beautiful, the little houses, the large area of grasslands and farms fascinate me. But there are lots of people smoking around and English was not as common as in Germany which brings us a little bit inconvenience.

Achat Hotel is great, the room is big with classic design. I was surprised to see such big room. There were 1 bath room, and another room for toilet and sit bath. The bed was comfortable except the pillow.

My husband is a train lover, of course he took a photo for trains here.

We realized we should take a photo for our room after some time, and tried to resume the original tidy look of the bed, but in vain :P

The decorations of the room make you feel that you've gone back many years ago.

The door in the middle is the room's door. You can find the toilet and sit bath tub behind the right door and the left door is for the bathroom.

Etsy Treasury - Silver

2011-10-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

Pinkii Life International Giveaway

2011-10-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

Pinkii Life is holding a giveaway from Etsy. The prize is a sweet pendent from Lizabettas

You may join here:

http://pinkii-life-g3lakmini.blogspot.com/2011/10/pinkii-life-2nd-giveaway-d.html

Christmas Hair Clips

2011-10-07T03:09:00.000-07:00

We're going to list some new hair clips covered in ribbons for Christmas. Please visit our Etsy store and web site for more details.

CLOSED Purple Clematis Applique A5 size Notebook Cover Giveaway

2011-10-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

We'd like to learn more about your preference and purchasing practice of fabrics. Kindly spend a few minutes to fill in this 7 questions survey to get a chance to enter this giveaway.

The prize of this giveaway is a Purple Clematis Applique A5 size Notebook Cover which is sold at $20 USD.

1 winner will be chosen using random.org and notified by email on 31Oct2011.

Etsy Treasury - Music

2011-10-06T05:10:00.001-07:00

Etsy Treasury - Plane

2011-09-25T02:34:00.000-07:00

$20 Clover Cotton Linen Mini Tote Giveaway Winner

2011-09-22T03:47:00.000-07:00

bored2quickly, congratulations! You are the winner of Clover Mini Tote Giveaway. I will send you an email soon for your address.

Etsy Treasury - Purple

2011-09-19T03:06:00.000-07:00

Hair Clips Board

2011-09-18T00:20:00.001-07:00

New Business Cards

2011-09-18T00:12:00.000-07:00

With the change of name, we need new business cards. Here are the existing ones and new ones:

Existing:
New:

First time bags

2011-09-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

The pattern was bought from keykaloupatterns months ago and finally tried out last week. Both focus fabrics were bought from San Francisco and I love the second one very much.

$20 Clover Cotton Linen Mini Tote Giveaway (Closed)

2011-09-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

I will give away a mini tote for free. It is handmade by me ! NO shipping fee is needed.

To get this Clover Cotton Linen Mini Tote, you will have to

Like Rodmas Creations on Facebook and leave a comment on the Wall saying you entered this giveaway and your name on blogger
Blog this giveaway and leave the URL in your comment on this post

1 winner will be chosen using random.org and notified by email on 21Sep2011.

Red Elephant Holding Blue Ball Fabric Covered Buttons

2011-09-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

The first time I saw an elephant was when I was in kindergarten. My mom and her friend bought us to a zoo. There was an big big elephant and it made strange noise. We saw it from some distance and it suddenly sprayed water to us.

A few listings have been made on our website and etsy store with cute elephants fabric covered buttons, come and have a look.

Pink Sakura Fabric Covered Buttons

2011-09-02T07:35:00.001-07:00

I have been to Japan several times, but have never seen Sakura.
Hope will have a chance soon.

This Sakura Fabric Covered Buttons is made of the same fabric of Rabbits in Pink Fabric Covered Buttons.

The photo of Sakura Fabric Covered Buttons was taken with my new light box. The photo of Rabbits in Pink Fabric Covered Buttons was taken with natural light. Which one do you think is better ?

New Product - Red Elephant Fabric Covered Buttons

2011-08-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

The first time I saw elephant was in a zoo, when I was 5, the elephant sprayed water to the visitors. The zoo has now closed and I have never seen elephants again in Hong Kong.

These are 2 cute elephant fabric covered buttons. They are in the first batch of fabric covered buttons I made with the fabric covered button machine.

Fabric Covered Buttons Machine

2011-08-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have recently bought a fabric covered buttons machine for making more beautiful buttons. It is convenient to use, you just need to press the handle, the surface and the bottom of the buttons can be attached to each other tightly.

With the use of this machine, I've created many many fabric covered buttons. Come to visit us and have a look !

Changes

2011-08-06T00:47:00.001-07:00

Our name has been changed ! Dream Mist Crafts is now Rodmas Creations. The name Rodmas is actually my husband's idea, which is the reverse of our names, Dorothy (i.e. Dor) and Sam. This name was used when we created our wedding website in 2007, and then I have decided to use it as the name our small handmade shop.
The name was changed because I would like to have an easy-to-remember name for the web site.

The new web site of Rodmas Creations has been launched. The official website of Rodmas Creations include an online store and a blog for sharing of crafting and aromatherapy. Please come and visit us, you will find more and more information, products and offers in the future.

Essential Oil Research - Citrus aurantium var amara (Neroli)

2011-04-20T23:53:00.001-07:00

About Neroli

Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Citrus
Species: C. aurantium

Neroli (Citrus aurantium var amara) essential oil is extracted from blossoms of the bitter orange trees. Apart from Neroli oil, bitter orange trees also produce Petitgrain oil (leaves) and Bitter Orange oil (fruits).

To produce Neroli oil, blossoms have to be collected by hands in late April to early May, and then the oil is extracted by water distillation.

The perfume Eau-de-Cologne is traditionally made from Neroli.

History

Neroli oil is produced in many countries such as Algeria, Egypt, France, Haiti, Italy, Morocco and Spain. It is believed that the origin of bitter orange trees is South-East Asia.

There is legend that during the 17^th century in Italy, Anne Marie de la Trémoille (Orsini), who was duchess of Bracciano and princess of Nerola, first introduced neroli oil as a fashionable fragrance to high society. She used it whilst bathing and also to perfume her stationary, scarves and most famously, her gloves.

Orange blossoms are traditionally used in weddings. They were seen as a symbol of purity and virginity

Therapeutic uses

Skin

Neroli oil stimulates cells and helps with broken capillaries, so can be used in eye creams to help reduce dark under-eye circles. Neroli oil’s antiseptic, bactericidal and cytophylatic properties also help skin problems and keep skin elastic and in good shape. Neroli oil promotes cell regeneration, hence can be used for combating stretch marks and scarring.

Psychological

Neroli oil helps insomnia, and as one of the essential oils with the most sedative effects is useful for treating depression, anxiety and shock and is also effective in calming heart palpitations, treating headaches, neuralgia and vertigo. It can help when a patient is convalescing and is a good general tonic.

The aroma of Neroli oil creates calming, soothing effect and helps to promote our parasympathetic nervous system, which aids in relaxation or the body and mind.

On a subtle level, Neroli can help one to develop the inner trust which will allows self-acceptance and produces feelings of security and protection. Neroli brings in positive energy. It helps one to relax as well as face our emotional fears. It can help to promote sensual comfort. It eases grief and also helps one to experience joyful love. It can reunite the conscious and subconscious minds and can promote direct communication with the spiritual world. Neroli can help one to become aware of unresolved issues so that one can deal with them. Neroli can also help to facilitate all kinds of creative activities when they are inspired by spiritual aspirations. Neroli is often used in happiness and protection blends.

Digestion

Neroli oil’s calming effect can also be beneficial to the digestive tract. It can be used for intestinal spasms, colitis and diarrhea.

Neroli oil infused tea or supplement of Neroli oil can be taken to treat your upset stomach due to diarrhea, colitis or intestinal disorders. When applied topically to the abdominal region, Neroli oil can help lessen the effects of menstrual cramping, discomfort and bloating as well.

Personal Comments

Neroli is one of my favorite oils and it is also one of my first oils. The smell of Neroli is quite strong. One drop can last for a long time. Its present sweet smell is difficult to be resisted by most people. Whenever I smell the scent of Neroli, I breathe more deeply and feel calmed. It seems that everything in the world slows down. I can also feel that the smell of Neroli goes down to my stomach, as if I have eaten the blossoms.

Reference

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neroli

http://www.quinessence.com/tunisian_neroli_oil.htm

http://www.dermaxime.com/neroli.htm

http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/neroli.htm

http://www.ehow.com/about_5251358_benefits-neroli-oil.html

http://www.wciablog.com/2008/01/neroli-orange-blossom-citrus-aurantium.html

Essential Oil Research - Piper nigrum (Black Pepper)

2011-04-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

Family: Piperaceae
Genus: Piper
Species: P. nigrum

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a flowering vine, cultivated for its fruit, which us usually dried and used as a spice and seasoning. It is used to flavor most savory dishes, meats, chicken, fish, dressings sauces, pickles and cheese.

It is also used internally in the West to aid digestion and relieve gas. In Chinese medicine, it is used to treat food poisoning, stomach chills, cholera, dysentery, vomiting caused by hypothermia.

It is used in aromatherapy as black pepper essential oil for pain relief, increasing circulation, muscular aches, exhaustion, fevers and digestive problems.

History

Black pepper is one of the oldest spices in the world. The history of black pepper in India dates back to prehistoric times and it was valuable, was referred to as “black gold”. It traveled to Europe, Middle East and North Africa during the medieval period and started to be cultivated in Southeast Asia by the 16^th century.

Black pepper has been used in the traditional treatment in India and China. The black pepper essential oil has also been used in ancient India, and is still being used in aromatherapy nowadays.

As Food

Chicken with Garlic and Black Pepper
Black Pepper Crab
Black Pepper Beef

Therapeutic uses

1. Aids digestive system

2. Aids muscles pains

3. Increases circulation

Personal Comments

a good spice for baking pork together soya sauce

smell of its essential oil makes me:

feel warm at my heart
feel the nose and throat stimulated
awkward
feel hungry
think of wood

Reference

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_pepper

http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-black-pepper.htm

http://www.aromaweb.com/essentialoilsaf/blackpepper.asp

http://www.gretchenspantry.com/recipe/chicken-with-garlic-and-black-pepper.aspx

http://rasamalaysia.com/recipe-black-pepper-crab/

http://www.travelchinaguide.com/tour/food/chinese-cooking/black-pepper-beef.htm

http://www.indianetzone.com/41/history_black_pepper.htm

http://www.agripinoy.net/pepper-plants-and-how-pepper-is-made.html

http://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Gastritis

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/muscle-anatomy.html

http://www.zunal.com/webquest.php?w=37532

Product Photography

2010-11-18T01:35:00.000-08:00

I've made a lighting box and have spent a few hours on products photography. Tried various ways to test the lighting and found that using white background is far better than black one. However, I've some products which are in white or something pale and I would like to pop them up with black. Besides, the lighting box I've made is too small and cannot even take a photo for the Rose on Pale Green Quilt Cellphone Bag. Need to find a larger box.

Below is a new product, Handmade Rabbits in Pink Fabric Covered Button Keychain. The photos are better than those being taken under sunlight.

New photos being taken inside the lighting box.

Photos of similar products being taken under sunlight

Aromatherapy - Acne Scars

2010-11-14T17:14:00.000-08:00

There are some acne scars on my forehead. They are some old scars which have stayed for more than a year. I have recently made myself a blend to lighten the scar. Besides, the oil is for moisturizing my sensitive skin in fall. Here is my blend:

Neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis)

Neroli is my favorite oil. Apart from its uplifting characteristics, it's famous for scars healing.

I usually have acne on my forehead before menstruation. Tea Tree is antiseptic and is good for acne.

Geranium can regulate hormones inside our body, hence can also reduce acne before menstruation.

You may be able to find Evening primrose Oil tablets. Evening Primorse oil is rich in fatty acids (GLA) gamma-linolenic acid. It also regulates oestrogen, progestogen and prolactin. It is also anti-inflammatory and is good for treating eczema. Evening Primorse helps in rejuvenating process of your skin and hence I chose it as one of the base oil for this scars healing blend.

Jojoba is moisturizing and good for healing. Like Evening Primorse, it is anti-inflammatory and good for eczema.

I use this facial blend after washing my face each morning and night after cleaning. The scars have been lightened after 2 weeks.

First Treasury for CAST

2010-11-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

This is the first treasury I have created for the team Christian Artists Street Team (CAST). Nice to meet you everyone !

Aromatherapy Recipe - stuffy nose

2010-11-11T23:48:00.000-08:00

I have nose allergy, and it gets worse while the weather changes. I always have runny and stuffy nose in the morning and had the following blending which helps a lot:

Lemon (Citrus Limonium)
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora)
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

I apply the essential oils with Grapeseed as the base oil on my chest and neck. Sometimes may be right under my nose. However, please be reminded that Lemon is phototoxic. You may want to replace Lemon with Atlas Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), which I tried and it works well too.

Lemon, Ravintsara, Eucalyptus, Atlas Cedarwood are good essential oils for respiratory system. Lemon is refreshing and suitable to be used in the morning. Ravintsara and Atlas Cedarwood are my favorite essential oils for respiratory system as they work well on me. I like to inhale them if my nose is seriously stuffy. Eucalyptus is antiseptic and mucolytic and is well known for killing germs, respiratory problems. However, Eucalyptus has to be avoided if you have epilepsy and may be stimulating on children.

$40 Mini Tote, Zipper Clutch and Soap Giveaway CLOSED

2010-11-10T17:11:00.000-08:00

5 winners in the mandatory entry and 1 winner in the extra entry has been selected. Email will be sent to the winners for addresses and the gifts will be mailed to you. Congratulations.

To celebrate my full return to Etsy, I'd like to have a giveaway on my blog. I will give away a set of mini tote, zipper clutch and a piece of raspberry pink clay soap for free. All of them are handmade by me ! NO shipping fee is needed.

Mandatory Entry
To get the Raspberry Pink Clay Soap, you will have to do ONE of the followings:

Heart Dream Mist Crafts on Etsy and leave your Etsy name in your comment on this post
Tweet this giveaway and leave the URL in your comment on this post
Blog this giveaway and leave the URL in your comment on this post
Follow this blog and a comment on this post
Like Dream Mist Crafts on Facebook and leave a comment on the Wall saying you entered this giveaway and your name on blogger

5 winners will be chosen using random.org and notified by email / facebook message by 15Dec. You can enter once only and must do this entry before qualifying for the extra entry.

Extra Entry
To get the Mini Tote + Zipper Clutch + Raspberry Pink Clay Soap, apart from the mandatory entry, you will have to visit Dream Mist Crafts, blog about your favorite item, then leave the URL of your post in your comment.

1 winner will be chosen using random.org and notified by email by 15Dec.

This is a worldwide giveaway.

End Time: 15Dec2010 10:00am EST

I'm back

2010-11-09T22:10:00.001-08:00

My handmade shop and this blog have been abandoned for more than a year due to sickness. It was really ashamed that I could not take care both my full time job and the shop together. But I want to say "I'm back".

I have taken unpaid leaves from end of September, and then was busy on mid-term exams of my aromatherapy diploma. Finally I've time to post new products to my shop.

These clutch have been made for more than a year, but I didn't have time to post them.

Mr. Liu Xiaobo's Sentence - After 10 years, can we still enjoy freedoms & rights we have ?

2009-12-25T08:01:00.001-08:00

It isn't the first time, Chinese being in jailed for what they've said / what they've written.

The Chinese government claims itself to be a civilized country.
A civilized country, which doesn't allow voices against the government.
A civilized country, which allows one party ONLY to be in power.
A civilized country, which limits access of the Internet of her people (include popular community web sites e.g. facebook, twitter, youtube etc).
A civilized country, which puts her people into jail simply because of some peaceful expressions on their political view.
A civilized country, which judges with closed doors.

I feel ashamed to be a Chinese, honestly. Whenever I'm asked about my nation, I just simply say 'I come from Hong Kong'.

First they came - Martin Niemöller (1892–1984)

When the Nazis came for the communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a communist.

Then they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.

Then they came for the trade unionists,
I did not protest;
I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews,
I did not speak out;
I was not a Jew.

When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out for me.

If we do nothing and just sit back, we or our next generations may face the same problem one day.
Can we still enjoy freedoms we've after 10 years ?
Can we still have the rights we've now after 10 years ?
Can we still strike on every 1Jul after 10 years ?

I'm not sure what I can do at this moment. I may throw a boom to Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region one day, perhaps >.*

There are things I'm pretty sure, I will NEVER go to the mainland until it's completely open. I will send the related news about Mr. Liu Xiaobo to people in the mainland. I will try my best not to buy things made in China. These don't help anything, just some silly and silent protests to make myself happier.

News about the sentence of Mr. Liu Xiaobo
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8430548.stm

Chapter 8 in different languages:
http://knol.google.com/k/%E9%9B%B6%E5%85%AB%E5%AE%AA%E7%AB%A0-08%E5%AE%AA%E7%AB%A0-%E7%AE%80%E4%BD%93%E4%B8%AD%E6%96%87%E7%89%88-%E7%B9%81%E4%BD%93%E4%B8%AD%E6%96%87%E7%89%88-%E6%97%A5%E6%96%87%E7%89%88-%E8%8B%B1%E6%96%87%E7%89%88-%E6%B3%95%E6%96%87%E7%89%88#Charter_08_(28)English_Version(29)

Featured Seller: donnapool

2009-02-09T04:58:00.000-08:00

www.donnapool.etsy.com

Feb's featured seller is donnapool. Do you want to have buttons / magnets which are customized for you ? Donna makes custom buttons and magnets.
I love cats and just found that there are lots of pretty photos of cats.

New Year's Goal

2009-01-11T00:04:00.000-08:00

Here are my new year's goals of my shop, and I will try my best to archieve them.

1. open another shop for supplies
Currently I sell my handmade products and supplies together on dorothywyn.etsy.com and www.dorothywyn.com . I'm going to move the supplies to dreamsupplies.etsy.com .

2. create new products
I would like to make some useful and cute stuffs which can make people smile and people can use them daily at the same time. I don't have any idea yet, but I really hope people can still live happily under bad economic situations.

Featured Seller: kstreasures

2009-01-10T23:55:00.001-08:00

www.kstreasures.etsy.com
Jan's featured seller is RoseWorksJewelry. I blogged about this shop before. Hence, I'd like to blog about Ruthie's another shop which was just started in Dec2008.

You can find different kind of products in this shop. Bookmark, cell phone charm, cell phone bag etc.
My favorite one in this book mark. The scalloped pattern is quite. If you want a different color, you just need to tell Ruthie as custom order is welcome.

Christmas Spotlight

2008-12-14T04:01:00.000-08:00

I didn't make any Christmas items (luckily I didn't), because I have joined Etsy for a few months only and there hasn't been much traffic. I believe Christmas isn't a magic and I will not be busy because of Christmas.

However, I did find some wonderful Christmas gifts. Although I didn't buy one because of the expensive shipping to Hong Kong, I recommend you to buy one if you are in the U.S.

This is a shop I featured before. There are lots of stuffer for Christmas. The duckies, turkeys etc are lovely.

If you love duckies, this gift set is a perfect one.

Featured Seller: spottedcowsoaps

2008-12-14T03:48:00.001-08:00

www.spottedcowsoaps.etsy.com

If you're still thinking Christmas gifts to your fathers, brothers, husbands, boy friends etc, you may visit this shop. There are some nicely packed soaps for men.

Apart from soaps, you can find massage oils, bath accessories etc. If you want to find some ways to relax yourselves or people you love, you must visit this shop.

Featured Shop: Sweet Lollipop Shop

2008-11-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

www.duckysoaps.etsy.com

The ducky in this shop is lovely. I am considering to buy the Santa Claus duck as Christmas gift for my husband ^^

1. What is your shop name ?
My official business name is Sweet Lollipop Shop, however I have 4 stores currently on etsy, DuckySoaps, SweetLollipopShop, BodyBeautiful and Kinky.

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?
Well, my name is Louise although I am nicknamed by most people that know me 'Louissa'. I was born in the United Kingdom and have lived here in the United States now for 5 years. I'm married to a fantastic guy who is awesome at making anything out of wood which is very handy when you have as many hobbies as I do and need storage, and I have 4 great kids aged between 9 and 18, my oldest two both being in the military here and in the UK. I began making candy approximately 4 years ago and then began making soaps seriously about a year later. I love creating for children most of all and seeing the reactions on their faces when they see what I create for them, there's something really special about watching a childs face just totally light up with a smile. Having 3 daughters, the younger two also being very artistic we love to make things together and they are definately my drive and my inspiration and both love to help out.

3. What is your shop URL ?
We have a few:
http://sweetlollipopshop.etsy.com (crystal barley candy lollipops and jewels)
http://duckysoaps.etsy.com (ducky and animal soaps)
http://bodybeautiful.etsy.com (a little bit of everything)
http://www.sweetlollipopshop.com

4. When did you start selling handmade ?
I officially opened Sweet Lollipop Shop in November 2006

5. How did you start selling handmade ?
My husband and I purchased our first home together in 2005 with the intention of us both working full time, however shortly after I was diagnosed with a chronic health issue that made it impossible to work outside the home, so we decided to sell the house the following year and move somewhere a little smaller and more affordable until my health improved which unfortunately didn't happen. I still really wanted to feel that I could contribute financially as I've always been stubbornly independent. A close friend suggested I should be making the candy I made at holidays for get togethers and selling them at craft shows and online because she thought they were so unique and that other people would actually buy them and enjoy them. I did my research and once I realised how popular handmade had become and then I found etsy, my creative juices were totally sparked and I began going off in all different directions, taking every hobby I'd ever enjoyed or been tempted to try and went a little crazy with it.

6. Why do you like crafting ?
I love to create and I get bored very easily so enjoy doing multiple different crafts especially ones that I can do with my children, sometimes I think I have the mind of a 5 year old but maybe that's just the kid in me! Being able to make something and see the positive reactions of others when they eat it or use it has to be one of the most rewarding experiences and just makes you want to keep on creating more and more. Also being lucky enough to work from home, be my own boss, set my own hours and do something that the whole family can enjoy together is amazingly fun. I honestly wish I could just do nothing but simply create 24/7 and the magic listing and packaging fairy would do all the administrative and cleaning up after me, who knows maybe one day when I'm rich and famous!

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?
Oh my gosh, I don't think I have an absolute favorite but I do think my elephant ducky soap is the most adorable of my ducky soaps. I couldn't think of a color scheme I was happy with for so long and I felt that grey would look dull and icky as a soap color, so was pleasantly surprised when I tried it as the base color with the pink and clear and now I totally love it. My favorite candy currently is the peppermint flavored crystal candy jewels, they're perfectly bite sized and have just the right amount of delicate minty flavor and no nasty preservatives!

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?
For the last 2 years the whole family has taken part in local craft shows including NH Made Try It and Buy It Expo, and we also now have our products in a couple of stores, the most recent being Freetown Yankee Market in Raymond, NH.

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?
I love to buy handmade, I have purchased so many things for my girls in particular including jewelry, cupcakes in a jar, unique cuddly bears and I love doing trades, especially around the holidays. I have tons of favorite stores, a few of them include britishcreamtea, pandys, Boodlebub and my favorite jewelry creator BonnyJewelry whom I just purchased a gorgeous triple heart necklace for my daughter for Christmas from.

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?
I currently have over 160 animal & ducky soaps listed in my ducky soaps store and I still have at least that many I haven't even managed to get listed yet! I also was lucky enough to become part of The Little Black Boxes (http://www.thelittleblackboxes.com), which are a great way for indie artists to get their creations out there and let the world see they exist whilst providing a great box of goodies every month on sale for everyone that loves to buy handmade!

Taipei trip 2008

2008-11-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

I've been to Taipei with my husband for 5 days last week. One of the main objective is purchasing fabrics.

We enjoyed lots of delicious food, waited for sunset at Dan Shuei, bought some fabrics. We were impressed by the fabrics market. It is large, well organized. There are many different kinds of fabrics, including Japanese ones.

Beautiful sunset at Dan Shuei, it is so romantic there.

Fabrics Market

Fabrics I've bought

Doll Houses

Busy Streets at Night (Yummy ~~~~)

Featured Shop: BeautifulBridget

2008-11-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

www.beautifulbridget.etsy.com



It's been cool here in Hong Kong recently (Autumn has come finally...) It would be great to have a scarf.

1. What is your shop name ?
BeautifulBridget

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?
As you may have guessed, I absolutely LOVE to create! My hands are always busy...if I don't have something to occupy my hands, I will fall asleep in 15 minutes...so I make things  ;)   I create premium scarves, cowls, scarflettes, hats, pure cotton scrubbies, apple jackets, coffee cozies, iPod pockets, and washcloth and dishcloth sets.  My creative genius (am I allowed to call it that?) usually comes out late in the evenings while my daughters (missindie on Etsy and JustBeaded on Etsy) and I get together to watch our favorite reality TV shows...our "mother and daughter" time which I cherish more than anything else in life.  My primary craft is crocheting, I've enjoyed doing it since my Mom taught it to me when I was a young girl and now as an adult I get ideas that pop into my head for new creations or I see things that I like and make my own crochet versions of them.  There is nothing that feels better than hearing how someone else is enjoying something you created!

3. What is your shop URL ?
www.beautifulbridget.etsy.com

4. When did you start selling handmade ?
I've crocheted since I was a little girl and finally realized my dream of selling my handmade items in May of 2008.

5. How did you start selling handmade ?
I was fortunate to have a friend tell me about Etsy and instantly opened my store and began selling.

6. Why do you like crafting ? 
Crocheting totally relaxes me at the end of a busy day.  Plus, I get totally wrapped up in creating using different colors and techniques and love the outcome, it's such a thrill to list a newly created item!  


7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?
Right now it is probably my Desert Trail Cowl.....it was super fun to make and is SO warm and toasty!  You can see it here:  http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16729631

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?
During the holiday season I have the opportunity to take my crafts to a cute little local handmade shop called Village Gifts....my daughter and I personally know the owner and each year she invites us to showcase our scarf collections there.

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?
I sure do!  My absolute favorite shop right now is WhatsThatSmell.etsy.com (she has the BEST candle tarts!) and I also love aromalite.etsy.com (her soaps are SO creamy!), pandacub.etsy.com (handmade hair accessories), GudonyaToo.etsy.com (for the absolute BEST handmade shampoo and conditioner)....I think I shop handmade more than I do in regular stores now!  Of course, I also love my daughter's shops:  missindie.etsy.com and JustBeaded.etsy.com

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?
Well, I have a few "interesting" items that most people haven't seen yet....probably the most interesting are the apple jackets I sell, they really keep your apples from getting bruised:  
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5879067&section_id=5514887

Also, my change keepers are really cool and is a great way to make sure you always have spare change available:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5879067&section_id=5470323

And alot of people really like my unique dust busters:
http://www.etsy.com/search_results_shop.php?search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5879067&search_query=dust

Featured Shop: Eunice’s Needlecraft Shop

2008-11-10T06:37:00.000-08:00

http://EuniceNeedlecraft.com

1. What is your shop name ?
After thinking about it and sleeping on it for days, I decided to name my shop “Eunice’s Needlecraft Shop”. Eunice is my name. The beautiful name Eunice is a derivative of the name Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. This Biblical name (Eunice was the mother of Timothy) is Greek in origin and it means “happiness and victory”. This is an old-fashioned name and was popular in the 16th century.

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?
I am pure and lovely! I take pride in the quality of my work and take time to do excellent work at a fair price. I do my best to leave no room for error by keeping an eye on the little things. This makes the difference between good work and excellent work! In fact, I strive for professional work because I am indeed a perfectionist!

I love to crochet and knit and sometimes incorporate both techniques. I like to constantly improve my skill, learn new stitches and patterns, and make all sorts of things, from doilies and flowers to scarves and baby blankets. I am all about making fun and quick projects.

3. What is your shop URL ?
My shop URL is http://EuniceNeedlecraft.com and it is same as my shop name.

4. When did you start selling handmade ?
I decided to turn my creative hobby into a business, and share my creations with the world. So, I started my Etsy shop on June 18, 2008. I put the money I make back into the shop so I can make better crafts.

5. How did you start selling handmade ?
For me, it all began with my love for yarn. My mother taught me crochet when I was little. Since then, I have always loved yarn. However, I forgot about yarn for several years, until a few years ago I started to knit again. Lately I’ve gotten addicted to crocheting and knitting. I am addicted to buying yarn, touching it, and making things with it. And this love turned into making small and cute but useful things that I could use myself. I started giving them to people I knew and kept making more. It is the most addictive hobby I have ever had! Finally I decided I was going to have to either stop making them or start selling them.

6. Why do you like crafting ?
I love crocheting and knitting because it can provide an opportunity to relax and focus, and is a good escape into a world of meditation. Also it is just fun, fun and more fun!

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?
I enjoy my craftwork very much, so everything I sell is made with love and comes with all my blessings! I love everything I make and am very proud of them.

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?
No, I don’t. However, I have wanted to give our local famers’ market a try. I will do some research on that.

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?
Yes, I do buy handmade and I hope many others will pledge to buy handmade too. Handmade gifts are often considered the most thoughtful. I just bought a wallet with ID window and coin purse this week from Launer London http://launer.com/ for my fiancé. All their items are made by craftsmen and women using traditional skills. My fiancé and I are very satisfied with the quality of the product and the customer service was excellent. I also purchase and trade in Etsy for lots of handmade soaps, yarn, cards, jewelry, treats, etc. The experience is always wonderful and I love the products very much. Besides, I also buy hand-grown vegetables and fruits from our local farmers’ market regularly.

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?
My shop encompasses a range of things in different colors. Behind each piece that I sell there is a story. For example, I designed this Floral Crystals Amulet Bag http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15298794 when my fiancé and I picnicked at our local park on a beautiful sunny day, and the Floral Headband Ear Warmer http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16380635 while my fiancé fed me strawberries! Everything in my shop reminds me of my sweetest and most beautiful memories in my life. I hope it will bring good luck to its new owner. So that’s my craft; that is my passion!

Featured Shop: Sock Monkey Jungle

2008-11-09T05:23:00.000-08:00

www.bluesaphire.etsy.com

1. What is your shop name ?
My shop is called Sock Monkey Jungle you can usually find me monkeying around in there :O)

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?
My name is Jan i am 44yrs young :OP I am a wife and a mother to 3 children Glenn,Melanie and Ryan,i have a rabbit called Thumpa a Guineapig called Patchy and a west highland terrier called Benji.
I am a Sock Monkey Addict lol, i love what i do, it keeps me sane :OP

3. What is your shop URL ?
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5194547&show_panel=true

4. When did you start selling handmade ?
I have always been creative since being a young girl, i enjoyed needlecrafts,art,casting miniature fireplaces,
crosstiching,painting,jewelery making,bead making,but sock monkeys are the foremost in my life !

5. How did you start selling handmade ?
I started selling on ebay a long time ago,then on some craft sites,but settled selling on etsy as i made good friends and its a great community.

6. Why do you like crafting ?
I like crafting because it keeps me sane, keeps me out of trouble,and because every time i create a new sock monkey its like bringing a
little character to life,i love to make people smile and also love to make people happy,my life revolves around sock monkeys 24/7 its my passion!

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?
Every character i make is individual,like it has its own unique look and character,i love everyone i have never made the same and will continue to
love each and every one i make in the future, i have no favorites i love em all!!

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?
I have opened recently my uk website shop where i sell my sock monkeys and other monkey related gifts http://www.sockmonkeyjungle.vpweb.co.uk/

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?
Oh gosh yes i always promote and buy handmade, if i have anything to purchase that could be handmade i will check etsy first,it supports sellers
and encourages continuation of art, expression and inspiration handmade rocks!
I could list a hundred shops i like ! I will mention a lovely lady i purchased from recently,i just love her fun artistic flair she paints fatcats
and i just LOVE the vase i got from her! SunnysWoodnGifts's Shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5043347
i have favourite jewelery shops,sewing shops,cake shops,oh gosh so many dont get me started lol! My paypal dont like them much though! :OP

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?
I am always learning,developing,trying hard to be the best i can at what i do,i have a blog where you can follow me to see what new creations i have
introduced the desire to keep introducing new and unique is a strong drive which comes deep within me so please do follow me if you like my work and would like to see updates
i may even follow you back !
http://sockmonkeyaddict.blogspot.com/

StumbleUpon - Your help is needed

2008-11-07T23:47:00.001-08:00

I am still struggling to drive more traffic to my web site. It would be great if anybody can do me a favor by clicking the following button. This can help me to have higher rank in StumbleUpon and hence more traffic.

Featured Seller: storybeader

2008-11-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

www.storybeader.etsy.com

I love jewelry made of glass. You feel cool once the glass touch your skin in summer. Pink is one of my favorite color apart from sky blue. Heart shape is always my love. There is a pair of earrings which match with this bracelet.

Bee Fabric Covered Buttons Giveaway

2008-11-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

In order to understand what our customers want, Dream Mist Crafts is conducting a survey about your interests on hair accessories.
All participants will participate in a lucky draw on Busy Bee Fabric Covered Buttons

To enter: please complete this survey before 30Oct2008. A random winner wll be selected. The winner will be announcer at http://dorothywyn.blogspot.com on 1Nov2008

The gift will be shipped from Hong Kong as air mail. We can make them as ponytail holder if necessary.

Your information will definitely help us to success, please join us.

Winner:
c***g***g**m@yahoo.com. Congratulations, separate email will be sent to you regarding to delivery.

Bear and Elephant Fabric Covered Buttons Giveaway

2008-11-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the opening of our web site, we will have a blog giveaway.

To Enter:
Leave a comment on this post, tell us which product you like most and your comments / suggestions about the web site.
The contest ends, 30 October at 11:59 PM EST. A random winner will be chosen and announced on 1 November.

The gift will be shipped from Hong Kong as air mail. We can make them as ponytail holders if necessary.

Winner:
The winner of this giveaway is Mannie Vincent. Congratulations, Mannie.

Featured Shop: BARBOSAART: The Art of Laura Barbosa

2008-10-31T09:07:00.001-07:00

barbosaart.etsy.com

When I was a child, I loved painting. Unfortunately, I am weak in this. I cannot draw the image in my mind onto paper.
Laura creates great painting and sell them in various web sites include Etsy. My favorite is the painting on Chihuahua.

1. What is your shop name ?

BARBOSAART: The Art of Laura Barbosa

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?

On Etsy, I am offering my Original Acrylic Paintings that are hand painted, signed and copyrighted by me, the Artist, Laura Barbosa - AKA barbosaart. Each Artwork Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity(COA), Artist Biography and Monthly Promotion Flyer. All my Art is an original creation! I am a Full Time Artist living off my income obtained from selling my original work.

3. What is your shop URL ? barbosaart.etsy.com

4. When did you start selling handmade ?

When I was in high school. My first successful sale was a hand painted sweatshirt and from there I received more orders for custom t-shirts created from photos.

5. How did you start selling handmade ?

Just seemed to happen on its own. I have been selling hand painted t-shirts, sweatshirts, shoes and custom pet portraits ever since I can remember. I am now a full time artist and rely on my art sales to live.

6. Why do you like crafting ?

Because it is something that truly comes from the heart and soul. How wonderful is it to receive a custom painting or handmade item from a loved one or even ordering one for yourself? These are the kind of things people treasure forever...There is no substitute for a handmade, one of a kind gift!

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?

I have alot of favorites because everything I create, I truly LOVE! But on the top of my list is "END OF THE AGES" & "BULLDOG IN A BOG"

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?

I tried selling offline but it actually cost so much more to rent a space and set up your products, that I would rather sell online.

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?

I LOVE HANDMADE GIFTS!!! I just joined ETSY but I would love to buy products from Studiomusings, Piddies, Lizardsjewerly, OMG I could go on forever. I truly think the Etsy Artists are the best at their crafts..better than anywhere I have ever been to or seen in my life!

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?

I offer ***** FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ARTWORK TO USA AND CANADA ***** Plus I have a wonderful Original Painting that I must sacrifice due to Medical Bills...What an incredible piece. I really wanted to save it for my retirement, but with the economy of today..I have to sell all my originals....But as long as I sell them on ETSY, I will be happy because I know that whomever buys it will truly love it. I also OFFER **ALCHEMY**On occasion I take orders for Pet Portraits and Custom Made Artwork to match any decor. Email me to check my availability for custom work. If you are ordering something for the Holidays...PLEASE contact me ASAP so I can get your gift finished on time. If you are looking for something not listed in my etsy shop...email me what you may be looking for...I just may have it on another website and will list it on etsy just for you.

Featured Shop: The Wildfire

2008-10-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

TheWildfire.etsy.com

I don't use candles actually, but attracted by the beautiful candles in this shop. The design and colors of the candles are so beautiful that it's hard not to love it. The candles are all wax, no paint is used. Isn't it wonderful ? My favorite in this shop is Dragonfly Luminary.

1. What is your shop name ?
The Wildfire

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?
I'm blessed to be a stay-at-home mom, though I didn't always feel that way. I have an independent personality and it was hard to adjust to not working, not providing for myself, and the monotonous routine of wash clean cook. I love my children, but desperately needed something for "me time". (that oh so joyous moment called nap time)
My husband bought me a little candle maker for Christmas one year and I haven't stopped since. I upgraded my equipment, taught myself all the techniques to a perfect a candle, and now take those techniques to the extreme.

3. What is your shop URL ?
www.thewildfire.etsy.com

4. When did you start selling handmade ?
Summer of 2007
I opened my Etsy shop in the Fall of 2007; the best decision I've made so far.

5. How did you start selling handmade ?
Once my house had a candle (or 2) in every room, I would give them out to family and friends. I soon had people offering to buy them and I definitely took them up on that offer.

6. Why do you like crafting ?
I love working with my hands.

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?
Oh boy, that's a tough one. Every new candle I produce is my favorite. If I don't like it, I don't put it out there.
If I really had to make a decision, I'd say my Red Flower. It's big (4x4), so it has a long burn life, the design is beautiful when lit and even unlit, plus you can reuse it over and over again by just placing a tea light in the center once the wax has burned all the way down. All of my 4x4 pillar candles leave an outer shell behind for that reason.

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?
Yes. I would love to own my own shop one day, but for now I sell to my community. It's a word of mouth thing.
My goal for 2009 is to push wholesale and get my candles in a local shop, then maybe even do a few fair/festivals.

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?
Of course!
I love handmade soaps and really enjoy Shannon's Irish Bliss. They smell wonderful and she offers many organic products which is A+ to me.
Then I have a few friends offline who do amazing work, as well.

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?
I don't use paint on my candles. All of my designs are all wax. I do this because it gives the candle a more sleek and stylish look. Plus, it helps me get some of the unique illuminating effects I love so much.

Featured Shop: Rose Works Jewelry

2008-10-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

roseworksjewelry.etsy.com

Ruthie sells colorful and jewelry in her shop. My favorite is her Brick Weave Bracelet in Blue Diamonds which is in my favorite blue.

1. What is your shop name ?

Rose Works Jewelry

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?

My name is Ruthie. I'm a newly-wed with severe health problems so I work from home. I split my day between doing work for others (ie, my "real" job), and working on building my business :) I create jewelry in a variety of styles. I love to bead weave, but that's very time consuming and I also enjoy making simpler, more traditional pieces. I'm always looking to expand my knowledge in jewelry creation and to learn new things!

3. What is your shop URL ?

www.roseworksjewelry.etsy.com

4. When did you start selling handmade ?

May of this year.

5. How did you start selling handmade ?

I've had friends telling me for years that I should sell the jewelry that I made for fun! I'd been seriously thinking about it for awhile but wasn't quite sure where to start. Last spring a friend introduced me to Etsy and the rest, as they say, is history!

6. Why do you like crafting ?

I find it very relaxing! I also love that it allows me to stay productive even when I'm house-bound by my health problems. Plus- there's nothing like the thrill of seeing someone wearing an item you created!

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?

Oh - that's so hard to decide! I have two that I really love right now. My Heroes, Godsend, bracelet was a journey of learning for me. It looks simple, but it took me awhile to figure out how to translate the symbol into a workable and weave-able design! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15500587 I also really love my Rosita's Coffee House Necklace - because I love coffee! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16028460

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?

Yes and no. I don't have any place where I consistently sell off-line at the moment, but I had a lot of fun doing farmers markets this summer, I have a jewelry party at my Mom's coming up, and I plan on doing a Christmas bazaar or two :) Plus there's always word of mouth!

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?

I do! When I can afford it :P I love http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5589742, http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=72942, and http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5843010 :)

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share?

Um, um, um, I'm always expanding my shop inventory - so check back frequently!

Your Shop Information Is Needed

2008-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

It is always like to do window shopping on the Internet and there are always lots of good shops. I'd like to feature some of these shops on this blog and a shopping guide which is still in progress. If you're interested to be featured, please fill in the following questionnaire and send email to dorothywyn@gmail.com. I'll notify you if you are featured.

1. What is your shop name ?

2. Can you introduce a little bit about yourself and what you make ?

3. What is your shop URL ?

4. When did you start selling handmade ?

5. How did you start selling handmade ?

6. Why do you like crafting ?

7. What is your favorite product in your shop ?

8. Do you sell offline ? If yes, where ?

9. Do you buy handmade ? What are your favorite stores ?

10. Any interesting things about your shop you would like to share ?

7 New Ponytail Holders

2008-10-19T07:59:00.001-07:00

I have decided to make more hair accessories with my fabric covered buttons since hair accessories are more useful than simply buttons. When you see some lovely fabric covered buttons, you may not buy them unless you're a collector or you craft. Hair accessories like ponytail holders, bobby pins made of these buttons may be more popular (I hope...).

I spent some time on thinking about the package. How should I pack the ponytail holders to make it more adorable? Finally I've decided to buy a pair of wave-cutting scissors for cutting the edges of the cards, and use a hemp rope to tie the ponytail holders onto the cards. This look simple and clean.

I listed ponytail holders with simple pattern like polka dots this week. There will be more different style e.g. cute cats, dogs etc in the future.

Nice tool - Stumble

2008-10-11T09:25:00.001-07:00

I registered Stumble the day before yesterday for promoting our handmade store.

Stumble is a personalized web sites recommendations tool. What you need to do are only registering for an account, adding a Stumble bar to your Firefox. After that, you can recommend your site or blog to Stumble so that your pages can be recommended to the others. You can also train Stumble by 'Like' web sites you love, so that it knows how to recommend sites to you.

I've got only a little traffic from Stumble yesterday, but what makes me happy is that it is really really fun to visit sites randomly with Stumble. I've found interesting quilting sites, fabric stores etc through Stumble.

This reminds me my final year project in the university years ago. I did similar thing, about recommending web sites to the users according to their interests.

Featured Seller: bfbeads

2008-10-08T03:41:00.000-07:00

www.bfbeads.etsy.com

Well... I believe that my mother would not cut her long and beautiful hair if she saw this shop 26 years ago.

This is a lovely store with functional jewelry for nursing mothers. Instead of pulling mother's hair, there is something safe and more attractive to baby to focus on.

Sometimes ago, I heard that babies love red things. This necklace would probably be attractive to babies.

Personally, I like this one most. It is elegant. The idea of child's stone and mom's stone is interesting.

Jewelry in this shop is absolutely perfect gift to your girl friends or wives with babies.

I believe if I have a baby after years, I won't have to cut my long hair like my mother did.

A Game of Tag

2008-10-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

I've been "tagged" by manderlyrose, a fellow Etsy shop keeper. The name of the game is to learn about people, so I need to list six things about myself...and I need to tag five others. I shall randomly choose them from the etsy bloggers...Please take a few minutes to visit these shops, they have some cool stuff! At some point I'll learn how to do mini shops, but for now, take my word on it :-)

www.DirtyFootprints.etsy.com
www.curiousmess.etsy.com
www.greyeyedesigns.etsy.com
www.LazyTcrochet.etsy.com
www.memoriesforlifesb.etsy.com

6 secret things about me:
1) Apart from my husband, I sleep with a teddy bear, a lion from Nicci, a fish (which is like a ball) every night. I treat them as my sons :P

2) I want to move to San Francisco if I have retired. I love the weather there. I like Marina very much.

3) If I have 10 million, I would resign from my day job immediately and concentrate on my shop.

4) I like swimming, but have never swam in the sea. I'm afraid of the waves....

5) I hate sweating, so I'm a bit lack of exercises and easily catch cold.

6) I like playing the piano, but I don't like taking piano exams. So I'm still grade 7....

My Day Job

2008-09-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

I have a day job, as a Senior Development Officer (something like System Analyst) in an IT department of a global bank. I have just switched my role recently, which is production support on a global custody system.

Apart from answering users queries, fixing production problems etc, I was given a mission with this new role. I have to find out ways to minimize our support cost. In another word, I need to streamline the support process, try to work out a support model which needs less effort.

I was given this mission mostly because the poor economy. Our budget was cut this year, 1,100 people were laid off globally. Our business likely prefer cutting the support cost and using the money to add more features to our system.

I am trying to study any improvements on our current support mode, hope I can complete this mission. Otherwise, I may be the next one to be laid off :P

Yeah! Dream Mist Crafts Official Web Site Giveaway

2008-09-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

It was a long weekend in Hong Kong (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), but I did nothing on my crafts. No no no, I was not lazy. I was busy on setting up the web site of Dream Mist Crafts.

To celebrate the opening of the web site, we will have opening sale and opening lucky draw. You may check our event calendar for details.

I ordered the Domain with $9.99 / year, and web hosting with $12.95 / month from Pappashop on Saturday morning in Hong Kong. The site was ready with a shopping cart the next day. (yes, very fast).

I spent the whole Sunday on the content of the shop, and then the whole Monday on the template and banner, and updating the link on my community network pages.

Having your own web site is really nice. You can include whatever you like e.g. subcategories, floral layout etc.

Pappa-Pak supports bulk update of inventory. You can also apply discount to products in a category or all products. There is event calendar, gift registry etc with Pappa-Pak. You can see more features on their web site.

Pappashop uses Mal's e-commerence for the shopping cart. It supports setting rules for shipping, coupon codes etc, which allows autmoatic calculation of shipping cost and discount while buyers check out.

The next thing I would do is trying to improve the SEO of the site by making suitable meta keywords, descriptions etc.

OK, you don't have to worry. I still love Etsy. The community there is so nice and cannot be replaced by anything. I am NOT going to leave Etsy and have never thought of this. I will list most of my products on both sites. For those which are very unique, I may list on either site.

Crochet Cell Phone Bags

2008-09-15T07:45:00.000-07:00

Last week, I've been working on crochet cell phone bags.
I wanted to make something for fall and winter. The first thing which come into my mind is crochet.
I wanted to crochet cell phone bags a long time ago. However, I didn't have a suitable needle to do so.
Hence, I bought needles at different sizes and started working.
Here are the 3 bags I've made. There will be one more.

Tote

2008-09-09T22:17:00.001-07:00

It was my first time to make totes last week. I decided to make them because ChiliMango gave me kind suggestions while I was upset with no sale in July.

I didn't make totes in the past because I am not confident if people would like the fabrics I have chosen. If the others don't like them and wouldn't buy the totes, the fabrics would be wasted. It consumes half yard of fabrics for every mini totes I have made !

Luckily, I have got positive feedback from Etsian in the chat room and other network communities.

People usually like the Green and Yellow Strip Mini Tote more. The fabric was bought from Black Cat Quilts in San Francisco when I visited my grandmother in late May.

Another popular one is the Clover Cotton Linen Mini Tote, which has got more views than the Green and Yellow Strip although people mention it has got less votes. This fabric was brought from a bulk purchase from Taiwan hosted by a Hong Kong blogger.

It seems that the Dark Red Chess Board Mini Tote is less popular. I made a zipper clutch with the same fabric before and both of them are not popular.

The Little Black Box or The Sampler

2008-08-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

I'm going to get my business card this week, and would like to send samplers (perhaps some buttons).
I've found out 2 places so far, and I'm considering which one I should send to

1) The Little Black Box
2) The Sampler

Here is some comparisons:

Lower limit of samples
The Little Black Box : none
The Sampler : 25 samples

Benefits
The Little Black Box : none except sending your samples to potential buyers
The Sampler : 1) a box of sample ; 2) logo being put on their site ; 3) discount on advertising on their site

Feedback from Etsy Forum
It seems that The Little Black Box has a better feedback.
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5740145

Other consideratiosn
- You can simply send coupon codes too to The Little Black Box. There is no restriction on the sampler to be sent.
- The Little Black Box ships to the U.S. only.

Typhoon Day

2008-08-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

A typhoon has just visited HK and signal No.8 has been hoisted. We didn't go to office today (yeah, 1 extra day off). I've spent my day off for my shop.

I've decided to print some business cards. Actually, I love Moo cards (especially the mini cards). However, they're to expensive to me at the moment (while I have 2 sales only).
Finally, I've decided to have my cards printed in a local Hong Kong store Print1000.
I spent a morning to design the business card and submitted the order. I wanted to show some of my items on the cards, so I picked up some pictures and made a college with Picasa.
Here is the finalized version and the outcome should have round corners which make it more special.

In the afternoon, I finished the mini wallet and cellphone bag I have been working on. Asked my husband to retake some more pictures in my store and take photos for those new items.
The new items will be listed in this week.

Revising my shop

2008-08-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

I've spent an afternoon to retake photos (actually it was my husband who did it, I just pass the items to him and show my hand/fingers), edit & upload them to our shop.
I've also revised the descriptions and tags of my items.

Some photos need improvements, we'll continue tomorrow.

We've found that taking photos under natural light and indoor have great difference. We took the photos near a window today. Although it was not sunny, the light is far better than we had indoor.

Hope these can bring me my third, forth etc sales....

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

No Sale in July

2008-08-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

We didn't have any sales in my 2nd month. Sad... V.V Are we doing anything wrong ?
Something has to be changed, we're going to take our photos again; change the descriptions; change the tags etc. Hope we'll get our 3rd sale soon.

Actually, I've been sick from 13July, wasn't productive during these 2 weeks.

New banner of my shop

2008-07-18T21:13:00.001-07:00

Finally, I have a banner for my shop.
The blue logo was designed by my husband, and the banner was made by BannerBee.
It seems that the feel of original size if quite different from the smaller one (760 x 100 px)

Tangram

2008-07-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever played Tangram puzzles ? Love it or not ? Don't you think that Tangram is amazing ? You can use 7 pieces of puzzles to make up many pictures.
I'm going to apply Tangram puzzles to my handmade items.
The first round is drawstring bags with swan on it.

One more shop has disappeared

2008-07-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

In Hong Kong, patchwork and quilts are not popular. It is not easy to find a supplies store or handcrafts classroom.
In the past few months, one of the stores in Causeway Bay has moved to a much smaller shop. With goods all over and you can hardly walk or find what you want there.
Yesterday, I went to Madoka at Whampoa and wanted to buy some batting there. However, it has been closed!!! I was so upset since it is one of my favorite store, and one of the few retail store which sells Japanese fabric.

Applique Week

2008-07-03T04:59:00.001-07:00

I made some applique card cases and a drawstring bag during the last weekend, and going to post them to my Etsy shop in this week.
I love the elf, actually I think it's a little bit like Santa Claus when it was finished. I'm going to make some more in different clothes.

My husband loves the hexagon flower one, keeps saying it's beautiful.

He loves the fabric inside too, that's why he took a close up of it.