The Inspired Spider

Hey! Look! I'm still here.

2010-06-07T09:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a year since I blogged. I'm sure SOMEBODY missed me. Surely, there is at least one person who missed me.

I'll try to post some interesting things soon. But, with my life about to get crazier, I'm not making any promises.

E.B. Spider Summer Sale!

2009-06-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

Summer Sun Headband pictured above.

I'm having a summer sale in my Etsy shop, with two ways to save!

Buy a large cupcake purse, get a small one FREE!

(Sale good through June 24th - limit 2 free)

Spend $15 before shipping, get a 10% off coupon - good on your next order (Sale good through June 27 - limit 1 coupon per person)

Custom orders are accepted! Let me make something that your little girl(s) will LOVE!

E.B. Spider - crocheted accessories from the web

Crafting Funk

2009-06-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get in a funk; where you just can't be creative? Yeah well, I'm in one of those. I think it's because my house is too messy to even turn around in, or at least it seems that way. I am a messy person by nature, but lately disorganization drives me BATTY!

I would post pictures of my pantry, but I'd be embarrased. It's a wreck. I can't handle not being able to access my stockpile of food. If you didn't know, I'm a coupon clipper, and I stockpile on things when I find a sale. Check out my other blog for all your couponing needs. [/End of shameless plug]

I will soon be opening up a new Etsy shop to sell hair bows. I have really got into making them for my daughter and want to try selling them. I'll let you know when I open up for business.

Until then, I am busy with all kinds of other stuff. You'd think summer would be a little more calm, but not so far. Uh, I can't wait for things to calm down again!

Lovely Blog Award

2009-06-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

I was catching up on some blog reading today and discovered that I've been awarded the "Lovely Blog Award" from Crystal of Pampered Papier. Click on that link to go to her lovely Etsy shop. There you will find paper goods for all of your needs. Be sure to check out her blog too. Thanks Crystal!

The rules for this one are:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

These are the great blogs I am passing the award on to:

Crystal's Adventures in Couponing

I Am a Money Magnet

Crafty Mama Creations

Pink Buckaroo Designs

Krazy Life of the Armstrong K

Misty's Scrappy Stuff

Phew, that was hard to work to come up with 15!

Mommy Monday Review - Fisher-Price Snuggle-Kins (Cheetah)

2009-06-08T11:06:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

These newborns come with a line of animals. When the animal is in the upright position, it makes animal like giggling sounds. When you put the bottle in the mouth, it makes feeding sounds. By laying the animal down, the eyes close and it makes cooing sounds as it goes to sleep.

Very cute toy!

Mom of 1 Smart Kid Charlotte, NC 6/8/2009

Pros: Good Quality, Cute, Snuggly, Soft, Interactive, Perfect Size

Best Uses: All Ages, Imaginative Play, Older Children, Young Children

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent, Stay At Home Parent, Education Oriented

My daughter got money for her birthday, so I knew this was the item we were going to purchase. She played with it every time we went into Toys R Us.

My daughter just turned 2 and can play with this Cheetah very well. She loves the fact that it makes sipping noises when you put a bottle in it's mouth. She is just amazed at how it will drink and fall asleep. Great toy!

()

My PRESCHOOLER?!

2009-05-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, my daughter turned 2 today. We haven't had a party yet. The party will be next week, since it was just more convinent for everyone. Don't worry though, she did get a present today - a sand & water table. She was soaked after about 15 minutes of playing with it, haha!

So, onto the reason for my title...
I get weekly emails from Babycenter.com that tell me what milestones to except, parenting tips, kid friendly activities, etc. Last week, the subject of the emails said "My Toddler this Week." I log into my email today, and see an email titled, "My Preschooler this Week." PRESCHOOLER? Ok, I wasn't gonna get all sentimental like most mommies on their kids' birthdays, but a PRESCHOOLER? That just sounds like such a big kid!

I have not shed a tear about her turning 2, nor will I. Now when she was 3 1/2 months old and outgrew her bassinet and thus had to be moved to her own room, in her own crib... yeah that's another story. I was crying my eyes out that night, even though her room was RIGHT BESIDE ours. Hubby thought it was cute that I was crying, but I could tell that he also thought I was slightly crazy.

For some reason, Emma knew a few days ago what birthdays were all about. I'm still trying to figure out how she knew all this. I kept telling her each day, "Your birthday is in 7 days" "6 days" and so forth. I said NOTHING about presents or anything like that. So when it was 4 days away from her b-day I said, "Your birthday is in 4 days." She said "4 days and I get presents." WHAT? Holy cow, this girl is smart! (Everyone tells us this. I think we have a little genius on our hands. I only hope when she gets to be a teenager that hubby and I are still smarter than her, LOL!)

Anyway, after I got Emma up this morning, I sang "Happy Birthday" to her. I fed her breakfast and got her ready to go shopping. My mom was coming over and we were going to go shopping for party decorations and things like that. So, Emma is sitting on the floor, watching what else, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. She looks at me randomly and asks "I get presents today?" Haha! I said "You might get a present today. It depends on what we find when we are out shopping." She looked at me and asks, "And birthday cake?" Ohmigosh. This kid knows everything. I said "Yes you might get some birthday cake today, but you will definitely get some next week at your party."

Luckily, a little later, my mom arrived with breakfast and a dessert. Yep, you guessed it. A small birthday cake. Which reminds me, last year Emma wanted nothing to do with digging into the cake. She stuck her finger in the icing and then immediately wanted it wiped off. I think we'll try again this year. Should be fun to watch!

Crazy Life

2009-05-29T14:32:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy busy for me lately. I am in the midst of planning a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse birthday party. We are trying to do it on a small budget. So far, so good. I'll have to post pics of the handmade decorations I am doing.

If you're like me, you are in a financial crunch right now. Please check out my other blog for coupons and money saving tips: Save Yourself Silly

The party is next Saturday, so after that, I should be back to posting on a (more) regular basis. My little girl will turn 2 tomorrow though!

MIA for a While

2009-04-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

I will be MIA for about the next two weeks. I have a vacation coming up, and I have yet to pack.

I'm so excited though. It's my favorite vacation destination....
Disney World here I come!

Mommy Monday Review - Disney 2 in 1 Harness Buddy - Mickey

2009-04-14T08:32:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

A fun and friendly way to keep kids close in crowds. Latch on to the tail of the backpack and you have your little ones safely in tow. A VELCRO® brand closure pocket on the back holds kids stuff. It looks cute and gives you peace of mind for family outings. Machine washable. For ages 18 and u...

Great backpack and harness!

Mom of 1 Smart Girl Charlotte, NC 4/14/2009

Pros: Useful, Strong Construction, Lightweight, Easy To Install

Best Uses: Toddlers

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

I know there are a lot of people out there that are against harnesses, but sometimes toddlers don't leave you much of an option when they want to walk but won't hold your hand.

I bought this for my 2 year old daughter, for our upcoming trip to Disney World. She adores it! She thinks it's funny when I hold the strap and she can't walk any farther.

You can remove the parent strap and just let the child carry it as a backpack. Mickey has a small pocket that you can fit sunglasses, or something in.

Both Mickey and the parent strap are VERY soft. It seems comfy, and while it is slightly big for my petite 2 yr old, we both like it a lot!

()

Current "Obsessions"

2009-04-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

Do you have any current "obsessions"? Any craft supply you are currently addicted to? Any song you cannot stop singing? I challenge you to list 5 current obsessions you have. Post your answers on your own blog, and encourage others to do the same!

My 5 Current Obsessions
1) David Cook's album - I absolutely love every song on it. It is a FABULOUS rock n' roll CD.

2) Buttons - I can't get enough of them. I use them on TONS of craft projects.

3) Hair Clips for my daughter - I love buying her unique and cute hair clips to go with her various outfits.

4) Disney World - Not that this one ever fades away, but with my trip coming up in *checks calendar* 23 days, I am just extra obsessed I guess.

5) Blogs/Twitter - I spend entirely too much time on the internet trying to find cool blogs and people to follow. Feel free to comment so I can check out your blog!

Custom Easter Basket - Just Completed!

2009-04-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

I just finished an order for a custom Easter basket. She wanted an initial on it, to personalize it more for her daughter. So, I cut the letter "A" from felt, then glued and stitched it onto the basket.

The basket turned out bigger than I expected, but I'm sure that's ok.

I am so happy with how this turned out. I hope the buyer is just as happy.

Next year, I think I may sell these in my shop. Or, who knows, I may list these in my shop during the fall. They would make great birthday or Christmas gifts.

Handmade Giveaway & Egg Hunt - from Etsy's ACE Team

2009-04-02T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Amazing Carolina Etsians Team (ACE Team) is doing a HUGE team giveaway. Grand prize is worth over $100. Plus, there are runner-up prizes to win too!

I am giving away this Cinnamon Spice Mug Cozy.

Are you interested in what else you can win and how to enter? Go here for all the details: http://aceteamnews.blogspot.com/

Headbands!

2009-04-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on a line of crocheted headbands. I just finished the first one. What do you think?

You can click the image to go to my shop listing. More photos are available there.
Stay tuned for more headbands in various colors!

Meanwhile, here are some of my favorite headbands:

Green Satin Braided Headband - from StefaniesBownanza

Punk Princess Woven Headband - from AvasMommy07

Ice Queen Headband - from WashedUpMermaid

New Shop Banner

2009-03-31T14:34:00.000-07:00

I really needed a new shop banner. I wanted a new color scheme, so I decided to stick with the black & white, but I wanted something in green.

Here's the banner I bought from sugarelli:

Isn't my tagline just too cute? I think it's kinda funny. Spider web/world wide web, haha! I'm such a dork.

Anyway, please click on the banner to visit my shop and see the new banner (in it's original size).

Mommy Monday Review - Especially for Baby Stroller Rain Cover

2009-03-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

Toys R Us

Able to fit standard strollers with canopies, the Especially for Baby Stroller Rain Cover offers quick and easy protection from the elements and attaches conveniently with snaps. Side inserts made of mesh netting provide proper ventilation. Surface wash only. Dimensions: 20"W x 28"H x 18&...

Junk

Mom of 2 Yr Old Girl Charlotte, NC 3/29/2009

Cons: Hard To Adjust, Flimsy

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

I got the slightly longer rain cover in a BRU store (the $19.99 one).

It is absolute junk! I tried to unzip one side of it and the zipper pull just came off! So I thought I'd take it back and get another one.

Then, when I was folding it up to put it back in the package, the "handy storage pouch" on the back, cracked and split.

A piece of junk! Even if it had not fallen apart, I still wouldn't have liked it. I think the way it's made is more complicated than it needs to be.

I will be forking out the extra money to buy the one that's made by my stroller company.

()

Easter Etsy Finds

2009-03-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

I never wait around for a treasury, so I decided to do a mock treasury in Etsy's Poster Sketch tool. If you are unfamiliar with Poster Sketch, you really should check it out. You can store items in it until a treasury opens up. Very neat!

Items are listed below, by rows, going from left to right.

Row 1

Big Botique Bow - StefaniesBownanza

Cotton Carrot Pouch - EBSpider (That's me!)

Easter Minkee Bunnies - RetroRugrats

Row 2

Easter Spring Felt Sugar Cookies - SugarChicBaby

Peas and Carrots Soap - SunBasilGarden
Modern Rabbits Mini Notes - PamperedPapier

Row 3

Robin's Egg Scrubber - Laksaware

Love Bunnies Print - ElegantSnobbery

Itty Bitty Pocket Bunny - TheCupcakeGirls

Row 4

Bob the Bunny Ring - AlloverArt

What's Up Doc Cookies - CakeBoxCookies

Happy Easter Stripes Dog Collar - GoneDoggie

Row 5

Leaf Printed Easter Carrot Shirt - Sweet3LeafPrints

Funky Stripes Fabric Basket - BaffinBaskets

Easter Bunny Clip Set - CuteandSweet

Check out some of these fabulous Easter items. It's not too late to order!

A Busted Lip and Blood Make an Upset Toddler & Mommy

2009-03-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

If that title doesn't make you want to read, I don't know what will.

Last night my almost 2 year old DD (internet speak for: dear daughter) was standing at the door, waiting for her Daddy to come back inside from chopping wood.

After about 20 minutes, he ran out of daylight and had to come back in. As soon as he walked in, I looked over and saw DD suddenly disappear. I didn't think twice about it. I figured she just sat down or stumbled and fell on her bottom.

Then I saw hubby's face. His eyes got really big and he scooped her up immediately. Meanwhile DD is holding her breath (normal thing for her when she gets hurt) then starts screaming once she actually breathes. Hubby says she hit her head right on the corner of the couch. I'm thinking, weird, she hits her head all the time and just keeps going, she never cries like that.

After she had been crying for a few minutes, we look at her head to see if there is a bump. Wrong. She has busted her lip, or bit it, just something because there is blood all over her mouth and in her mouth. There is blood on hubby's shirt.

I run to grab some ice to put on her lip because it's starting to swell. She screams harder and won't let me put it on there. I try handing her chilled teethers. She won't have those either. So there I am holding a bleeding, screaming child who won't let me do anything to help her.

She has busted her lip before, but it wasn't as bad as this time. The last time, I didn't do well at all. First, let me explain that I don't do well with the sight of blood. As a child, I hated loosing teeth because I would have the taste of blood in my mouth and it would make me nauseous. I would get queasy and feel like I was about to pass out. I thought my own blood was the only blood that bothered me, until DD busted her lip the first time. It was scary to see DD bleeding and screaming. I was shaky after that first time, and it took me a good 10 minutes to calm back down.

This time however, I wasn't freaked out. I just wanted to comfort my baby and hold her as long as she needed holding. Mommies don't get to be queasy when their child is injured. They have to jump into action without even thinking twice.

The lesson I learned from all of this? NEVER run out of Infant's Tylenol and Baby Orajel. You will need it sometime, and chances are, when you are completely out, you will need it.

Here is her swollen lip. This picture is from today. It looked a lot worse last night. (Oh, and please excuse her messy mouth, she just had a snack, haha). See how swollen her left side is? Poor thing.

Mommy Monday Review - My Two Babes Waterproof Labels

2009-03-23T12:06:00.000-07:00

I ordered these waterproof/dishwasher safe labels from My Two Babes. This was my second order from Kristin, and I'm just as happy with this order as I was the first.

I have never had a problem with these stickers coming off. I have even been known to remove a sticker and replace it in a different spot, and I still haven't had any problems with them coming off.

These stickers are a MUST if you take your child to daycare or even to church. My little one stays at home with me, but when we take her to church, these stickers really help. If a cup gets left behind, they know exactly who it goes to.

I recommend these stickers to everyone! Kristin has a 100% positive Etsy feedback score. Order from her, and you will see why!

Tips for Tagging on Etsy

2009-03-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for ways to help tag my items with just the right words, so Etsy buyers can find them easily.

My biggest tagging tip is to ALWAYS tag items with colors. Many Etsy treasuries are done in color schemes. If you don't put colors in, you are missing out on a HUGE audience. I always use the common color and sometimes a more specific color, if I have room. For example, if I have an orange item, I will use one tag for "orange" and one tag for "tangerine." See the "Tagging for Maximum Exposure" article below for ideas on specific color names.

Here are some great articles on tagging:
Tagging for Maximum Exposure on Etsy
Etsy's Guide to Tagging

Mommy Monday Review - Disney Fairies High Back Chair

2009-03-16T09:43:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

Cozy plush chair just the right size for toddlers. This plush chair is great for lounging reading and watching TV in comfort. This chair comes in great designs and various colors and licenses. It has a very sturdy foam construction and a plush, soft removable washable cover. Kids will love to have ...

Great size!

Mom of 1 Smart Girl - Charlotte, NC 3/16/2009

Pros: Colorful, Easy To Clean, Cute, Durable, Fun

Best Uses: Toddlers

Describe Yourself: Stay At Home Parent, First Time Parent, Education Oriented

My daughter, who is almost 2, loves this chair. She carries it around until she figures out where she wants to set it. It's lightweight, has a removeable cover for easy washing, it is low to the ground for little legs, and seems to be really comfy for her.

She likes it so much that I'm thinking about getting her the sofa for her birthday.

Mommy Monday Review - Big Bubble Bucket by Little Kids

2009-03-09T12:49:00.002-07:00

Welcome to the first installment of Mommy Mondays on my blog. On Mondays, I will review toys, games, and other things that I have recently purchased for my daughter or other children. These may be handmade items or items you buy in a regular store.

Today's item is the No Spill Big Bubble Bucket by Little Kids. I bought this for my 21 month old daughter last week since it is getting warmer outside. When it's warm, we like to go outside and blow bubbles. She is now at the "independent age" where it's no longer entertaining to watch Mommy blow the bubbles and try to catch them, she simply MUST try to blow them herself. So, I purchased this bucket and some bubble liquid.

Thise bucket has 3 bubble wands. These wands have big handles that little hands can hold onto easily. My daughter can even fit them back in the slots, on the top of the bucket, to dip them back into the bubble liquid.

This bucket is a fantastic thing for little ones. It's easy to fill by the parents (simply unscrew the bottom) and easy to use for little hands. I highly recommend this. You can find this bucket at Target stores (although I couldn't find it on their website), or by clicking on the link above to see what stores near you sell it.

Why yes, I am a Disney dork!

2009-03-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know me that well, I must confess now that I am a Disney fanatic. I have been to Disney World quite a few times and no vacation has ever compared to the magic and hospitality that I received there. The food, resorts, rides, shops - just everything is amazing!

My family (group of 7 adults and 1 toddler) is going back to Disney World in May. We are staying at my favorite resort, the Polynesian. It is going to be so nice to stay on the monorail loop with a toddler. Just push the stroller directly onto the monorail. Fantastic!

Anyway, I am so hyped up about this trip that I already want to start packing. Not to mention that you have to pack so much stuff for toddlers, that I feel like I better start now so I get it all, LOL. (I told you I'm a Disney dork!)

So I'm hoping May comes super duper fast!

Airplane Hair Clip (from Cutesie Clips)

2009-03-04T11:20:00.000-08:00

I ordered this for a friend's little girl. She was having an airplane themed birthday party, so I couldn't resist buying this.

I haven't ordered from Cutesie Clips for my daughter yet, but I'm sure I will in the near future. This clip is so well made! Excellent quailty and also excellent customer service. I was emailed when my clip was shipped, so I didn't have to wonder where it was or if it was shipped. Fantastic seller!

Click the image to go to her shop!

Snow Day!

2009-03-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Even my hubby got to stay home today (which is very rare). It's all starting to melt now, but we had about 4-5 inches this morning.

Here's a pic from our front porch, this morning around 9 AM.

It's so nice to see lots of snow. We don't get much snow here in the south, so everyone is excited to see it. All the kids in the neighborhood are having snowball fights. It's such a fun day!

Wow, it's been a while.

2009-02-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

It's been so long since I have posted on my blog. The inspiration to blog has just packed up and left.

Anyway, since I cannot always figure out crafty things to blog about, I decided to change my blog focus a bit. This blog will now focus on my life, as both a mom and crafter.

Notice the stroller review I posted today? Yeah that's the mom part of the blog now. Haha.

Hope you all enjoy the new direction my blog is taking. I hope to blog more in the near future. Thanks for reading!

My Review of Peg Perego Aria Stroller - Corallo

2009-02-27T14:01:00.000-08:00

Toys R Us

The Aria OH One-Hand is Peg Peregos lightweight, full-featured convenience stroller. Youll love the way this stroller folds effortlessly and compactly with one hand and one step, and carrying it after folding is easy with the convenient handle. Even with all of its simplicity, the Aria OH still gi...

PERFECT!

Brandy, mom of 1 active girl Charlotte, NC 2/27/2009

Pros: Smooth Ride, Easy to Set Up, Stylish, Comfortable, Easily Stowed, Lightweight, Easy To Maneuver

Best Uses: Toddlers

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

Don't be put off by the price of this stroller. IT IS WORTH IT!

We bought this mainly to go to Disney World with, and to replace our huge Graco stroller.

This stroller has a large basket for a lightweight stroller. I can a medium sized diaper bag plus a backpack purse in it. It also has a reclining seat, two child cup holders with snack track in between, and a parent cup holder. The canopy goes lower than most, and covers my daughter EXTREMELY well, which is exciting for that Florida sun!

We have owned many strollers because we could never find the right one. But now we have, this one is just PERFECT! It is the only stroller we have owned where our daughter's cups actually fit completely inside the cup holders. Oh, and it only weighs about 9 pounds, folds very compactly and is self standing when folded! It also has a carrying handle on one side. This thing is fantastic!

()

Thanksgiving Jokes

2008-11-26T08:11:00.000-08:00

With a sometimes stressful holiday approaching, I thought we all could use a good laugh. I've complied a few Thanksgiving jokes below to keep us all in good cheer.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE GOOD NAPKINS The joys of having girls.
My mother taught me to read when I was four years old (her first mistake).

One day I was in the bathroom and noticed one of the cabinet doors was ajar. I read the box in the cabinet. I then asked my mother why she was keeping 'napkins' in the bathroom. Didn't they belong in the kitchen? Not wanting to burden me with unnecessary facts, she told me that those were for 'special occasions' (her second mistake).

Now fast forward a few months.... It's Thanksgiving Day, and my folks are leaving to pick up my uncle and his wife for dinner. Mom had assignments for all of us while they were gone. Mine was to set the table. When they returned, my uncle came in first and immediately burst into laughter. Next came his wife who gasped, then began giggling. Next came my father, who roared with laughter. Then came Mom, who almost died of embarrassment when she saw each place setting on the table with a 'special occasion' Kotex napkin at each plate, with the fork carefully arranged on top. I had even tucked the little tail in so they didn't hang off the edge!!

My mother asked me why I used these and, of course, my response sent the other adults into further fits of laughter. 'But, Mom, you said they were for special occasions!!!'

Pass this on to your girlfriends who need a good laugh or anyone who has a daughter! Life is too short for drama and petty things, so for heavens sake, use the good napkins whenever you can!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Why did the indian chief wear so many feathers?

To keep his wig-wam

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What did the mother turkey say to her disobedient children?

If your father could see you now, he'd turn over in his gravy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What do you call the feathers on a turkey?

Turkey feathers, duh.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If april showers bring may flowers, what do may flowers bring?

pilgrims

Giveaway from AllOverArt

2008-11-19T06:15:00.000-08:00

All Over Art is having a giveaway on her blog. You can visit her blog here.

All Over Art has many great paintings and hand painted pendants. You really should check out her shop!

Custom Cupcakes

2008-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

I just listed on my shop announcement my Christmas deadline. Please get your cupcake orders in by Nov. 21st in order to make sure that I have time to do them.

I have listed a custom cupcake order which you can find here: Custom Cupcake Order - Large

If you would like another size, please contact me.

Buy a large cupcake by Nov. 7th and receive a free small cupcake purse!

Cupcake Sale/Giveaway

2008-11-03T06:43:00.000-08:00

I am running a short sale/giveaway on my cupcake purses. Buy a large cupcake purse, get one small cupcake purse for free!

Information on discount:
Only one free cupcake per person. Small cupcake may or may not be customizable; this depends on availability. Purchase must be made between 11/3 & 11/7. Sale ends 11/7 at 11:59pm eastern time. Custom orders are eligible for free small cupcake purse giveaway. Only one free cupcake per person.

$10 Gift Certificate Giveaway

2008-10-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

I forgot to post about this the other day. Love Etsy Feedback has featured my shop and my giveaway. I am giving away a $10 gift certificate to my shop http://www.ebspider.etsy.com

Go here to enter: http://loveetsyfeedback.blogspot.com/2008/10/feature-65-win-10-gift-certificate.html

A Bakery Full of Cupcakes

2008-10-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

My newest obsession is cupcakes! I have created cupcake purses and listed a few in my Etsy shop. These are just a few of the cupcake themed items that I have in mind. Stay tuned for more calorie-free goodness!

If you would like a custom cupcake, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to join my mailing list to receive coupons and updates about my shop, send me a convo on Etsy. http://ebspider.etsy.com

Featured Again - YAY

2008-10-13T07:02:00.000-07:00

I have been featured on this blog today: http://www.apunkincardcompanyblog.com/

It's a feature called "In Their Own Words." I didn't do an interview, I simply just wrote up a short paragraph about my business and myself. I think it turned out well.

Please go comment on that blog and show me some support! Thanks.

Panic Mode is Setting In

2008-10-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

HOLY COW! I have a craft show tomorrow and I don't have everything done. I'm about to hyperventilate!

I still have to do all of the following:

Price everything. (About half of my stuff is priced.)
Make sure fabric labels are on just about everything (They won't go on the tube scarves.)
Make signs for booth.
Make freebie treat bags for kids.

There are tons of other things on my list too. But, these are the main things. Plus I have to try to find some of those tablecloth clips/clamps to hold the tablecloth onto my tables.

I just may have a nervous breakdown by the end of the day. Please send me pixie dust, because magic is the only way I am going to get everything done!!!

I've been featured again!

2008-10-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

I logged into Etsy today to find a convo from someone, letting me know I was featured on their site.

My Queen Elizabeth Earrings are featured here: http://craftykinoko.typepad.com/

I always get so excited when someone features me. I need all the exposure I can get!

Destashing My Stuff

2008-10-02T05:46:00.000-07:00

Since sales are slow on handmade items, I am trying to destash some things to get a little extra money.

Yesterday I listed this cotton cloth. It's a yard and a half of tropical pink-ness. Exact dimensions in inches and centimeters are provided on the listing description, which can be found here. You can also click on the photo to go to the listing.

My Newsletter

2008-10-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am in a Promotion-Crazy mood lately. I have done just about everything I can think of to drum up some business... well except one thing.

It occured to me that I needed to create a newsletter. So, the other day, I did just that.

The first newsletter is pretty simple. It explains what to look for in upcoming newsletters, has some info about me, updates about my shop, and it lists a few upcoming items that will be available in my shop. It also has a special sweepstakes, available only to my subscribers!!!

If you would like to sign up for my newsletter, please convo me on Etsy, or comment on this post saying you would like to join.

Craft Show Coming Up

2008-09-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

I'm doing a craft show in October (my first one in years) and I'm on a desperate search for some tablecloths. I can't decide what color I want. I may do white on the bottom and add a piece of blue, pink, or green cloth on the top for a splash of color. I want it to be eye catching.

I also have to create a sign for my booth. I want to do a handmade sign because I think that adds a nice touch to your handmade craft booth. It shows you are really into handmade.

I'm also hoping to get some pvc pipe to raise my tables, away from cleptos and little cotton candy covered hands, haha. Plus I really think it will make my items and booth stand out more. I'm learned a lot since the last show I did.

I'll keep my blog update with what I decide to do.

I am finally finished!

2008-09-17T13:52:00.000-07:00

It took me a month to finish this blanket (about 63 hours total). This was a custom order for a friend. It is a Dallas Cowboys blanket. I am so happy with the way it turned out.

Check out my new fabric labels in the pictures below. I got them from JennifersJewels. Fantastic labels at great prices!

I love the way the three layered star turned out. (I must admit stitching the star on the blanket is the hardest part. I tried very carefully not to show any thread on the opposite side).

Busy Busy Me!

2008-08-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

I realize that I have not blogged in a while, so I thought I would update everyone on my life.

For the past week I have been working on a custom afghan order - a Dallas Cowboys blanket with an handstitched felt star, similar to my Blooms and Stripes Blanket

Last week, hubby and I took our daugther (almost 15 months old) to the zoo for the first time. She had a blast! Her favorite part of the trip was the aquarium. Now we're on a search for local aquariums, haha.

Since I blogged last, I am now a Co-Administrator for the Amazing Carolina Etsians Team. We are a group of North Carolina Etsy sellers who are promotion crazy and very friendly. It's a great team, please contact me about joining if you live in NC.

I'm getting ready for a craft show in October at a local festival. I have tons of things to sale! I just have to get some things to dress up my booth.

I'm having a sale through the month of September- Free shipping on orders of $40 or more! Please check out my shop by clicking on the orange Etsy circle above. Thanks!

Featured Again! Yay!

2008-07-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

I have been featured again!

Winklepots was kind enough to feature me on her blog. I had filled out some questions a few weeks ago, and I completely forgot about it until she convo'ed me today.

Winklepots Blog

I'm so excited!

I haven't been able to list very many things lately because I've been super busy making promos and doing some "spring" cleaning around the house. I'm desperately trying to get my craft room in order so my projects won't keep spilling into other rooms!

Right now I'm off to take some pictures and clean some more. I'll blog tomorrow with pics of my promos, hopefully.

PoshDots

2008-07-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

This week's featured artist is: Posh Dots

What is your name? Becky

What all do you make & what is your specialty? I love to do most anything ralted to arts and crafts...sewing, beading, painting, paper products, ceramics, collage. You name it, I've probably done it! My specialty is custom hand painted children's decor, especially wooden letters.

How did you get into what you do? I was expecting my daughter three years ago and wanted letters for her room. But, her name is 11 letters long and I could not affford any that I saw on-line. My oldest son was peeking over my shoulder one day when I was "shopping". I commented that I loved the letters, but could not afford them. He says, "well, you can buy them at Wal-Mart in the craft department." DUH! Off we went to get them. Since then, I have found a wonderful crafter near by that cuts the letters for me, offering a wide variety of fonts and sizes. The rest is history!

What item in your shop is your favorite, and why? Ironically, my favorite piece is not one of my names. It is a piece that I did in January 2007. The description gives an explanation. I posted it on an on-line support group that I belong to and it spread like wildfire! I've probably sold/made close to 80 pieces like it. It was the first time in my life that I really felt like an artist and motivate me to keep going.

What are your goals in creating your items? Right now, my goal is to keep up with orders, LOL! Complete one name a day. :)

Anything else you would like people to know about you or your items? I am a perfectionist. I have to love to finished product before the custome sees it. Original desings are my specialty. Give me an idea and I'm off and running! Esty has been such a wonderful place to meet wonderful people. I'm always amazed at the connections I have with my customers. It is such a joy to create custom work.

If you like the catepillar art above, you can find it on Becky's other shop at: BSBCreations

Shopping for the Business

2008-07-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

After tons of searching, I have finally found something easy to make that will make a good freebie to give away as a promo. I found these little wooden shapes that I'm embellishing with paint markers. I plan to put them on pinbacks and cliping them to business cards. Some of them are even spiders!

I also bought some pink tissue paper to wrap future purchases in. I know, not all women like pink, but like it or not, it's the colors of my shop right now. It's also the color of my business cards.

Finally, I bought a black mess trash can that I plan to turn upside down to use as an earring display for a future craft show. I got the tip from a blog or a forum thread, I can't remember which.

I still need to get some things:

Cardstock to make item tags
Spider Stamp for item tags

I would blog more tonight, but after all that shopping and then going to dinner with hubby and a very sleepy/ill-tempered baby, I am exhausted. I need some sleep! ZZzzZzzzzZZzz

Introducing Friday Finds!

2008-07-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

From now on, if my 13 month old permits me to that is, I'll be featuring individual items from Etsy sellers on Fridays.

Here are the first two!

This piece of jewelry is from Fig Tree Jewelry

This is a hand stamped sterling silver round on top of a turquoise round. All of this on a sterling silver chain.

I love the message on this necklace. As a mom, I definitely agree with it. The journey is terrifying at first, but then once you get into it, it's so rewarding.

This necklace is from Yana Designs

This necklace is made of plastic buttons, glass pearls, and seed beads. All of this is on silver plated chain.

I love button jewelry. It's my newest obsession. I love how she put extra beads with these buttons. It gives it something extra. I love the oranges too, it's so summery.

Please visit these two wonderful shops and look at their work. There is more to be found!

New Earrings!

2008-07-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

I am in love with these earrings. I had to stash away enough supplies to make myself a pair too.

I also listed some Christmas Ornaments and a Fall Scarf. Stores are putting out their winter stuff now so I figured I would start too!

I've been featured!

2008-07-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

.

My first feature on a blog has finally come! SplashesofColor has an all Etsy blog and I am the first to be featured!

Check it out: Wonderful World of Etsy

Blooms and Stripes Blanket

2008-07-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest listing. It was a casual project that I worked on, off and on, for three and a half years. Not sure how much actual time was put into this blanket, but I know it's a lot. I'm so happy with it.

After finishing it, I though it needed something else. I then created a felt flower for it. Two plastic, pink, flower buttons top off the green flower. The green flower is handstitched (and glued) to the pink flower with pink embroidery floss. The pink flower was then glued and handstitched to the blanket with green embroidery floss.

The entire blanket measures 69 inches long by 52 inches wide (before washing). I measured it while the stripes were vertical.

I can only hope that I find a good owner for this blanket. Wow I'm treating it like a pet, haha. But I just hope someone else falls in love with this blanket like I have. I have no use for it though since it doesn't even match my daughter's room. It's very warm and soft and incredibly well made. You will not be disappointed if you decide to purchase this blanket!

Click here to view this item: Blooms and Stripes Blanket

AndreaBaker

2008-06-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

This week's featured artist is: AndreaBaker

What is your name?

Andrea Baker

What all do you make & what is your specialty?

I make one of a kind Handbags, craft aprons, and business card cozies. My specialty is the Business Card Cozy.

How did you get into what you do?

I got into sewing as a business because I love making things. So it just happened that some one suggested I sell them.

What item in your shop is your favorite, and why?

I have to say I'm really loving my craft aprons. I think any etsy seller would benefit from having one, plus they can be customized to fit the sellers style. My craft aprons are also good for cooking, cleaning, anything really.

What are your goals in creating your items?

My goal when I create an item is to create the best item I can for my customers.

Anything else you would like people to know about you or your items?

I'm a work at home mom of two beautiful children. I am married to a very supportive husband. I'd like to thank EB Spider for selecting me to be featured on her blog. Thank you so much.

Unorganized Team

2008-06-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

So I joined a new team on the Etsy website. I am so frustrated by it too.

So I sign up for their "website" page. And then I realize what a mess it all is. There are not many members as of right now, but if it does start to kick off, it is going to be an even bigger mess.

My complaints so far:

The forum on this website does not have sections, so every post is just thrown together in one big blob.
I posted a question on the forum FIVE days ago, and it has yet to be answered.
I sent a message to the team leader, asking the same question, and she still has not answered.
There was supposed to be a team meeting in chat, and we were supposed to be emailed the password for the room. Well, we never got an email (and there is not excuse for this, IMO. Send us the password early for crap's sake.) And the team leader ended up not starting the chat, which I can understand if things come up, but I still don't get the password thing.
I have yet to find out what we need to put on our item tags to let them show up in team searches.

I am ultra frustrated right now and I'm seriously thinking about leaving the team. If you're going to start a freakin' team, be organized or get someone to help you get that way. Gah I could SCREAM right now!

SoapyLove

2008-06-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

This week's featured artist is: SoapyLove

What all do you make & what is your specialty?

*I make glycerin soaps of all kinds, but my specialty is definitely Soapsicles!

How did you get into what you do?

*I started soap crafting over 3 years ago when I was pregnant with my son. I got totally obsessed and had way too many soaps! So I started selling online, which was really all I could do since I worked full time. I had the good fortune of being the first glycerin soap crafter chosen as an Etsy featured artist and was a guest on DIY's Craft Lab. Right now I am also writing a soap crafting book which will be published next year.

What item in your shop is your favorite, and why? (Please provide a link)

*My favorite Soapsicle is the Peace, Love, and Soapiness because the colors are so pretty! I think that popsicles and rainbows go hand in hand.

What are your goals in creating your items?

*I want my designs to be creative, innovative, unique, and most of all - bring a smile to your face!

Anything else you would like people to know about you or your items?

*Yes! Soapylove Soapsicles are great for children. Many people are concerned that kids will try to eat the soaps, but I assure them that one lick will prevent them from trying again! Plus the stick is a great non-slip handle for little ones who get frustrated by slippery bars. I will be announcing some new styles and a new soap dish very soon, so sign up for my newsletter to be the first to know.

You can sign up for the newsletter on her website.

Earrings!

2008-06-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

My newest obsession is earrings. I have been making earrings from things I already have in my stash. These are just a few of the ideas I have. There are definitely more to come. Check out my shop: E.B.Spider for these and other creations.

BubblesandMimi

2008-06-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

This week's featured artist is: BubblesandMimi

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What all do you make & what is your specialty? I love to create items and gifts especially for baby's and Toddlers.From blankets and Burpies to Chic clothing for your little one.

How did you get into crafts?My sister in law taught me how to sew when I was 15 and I will forever be greatful for that gift. Being a military spouse it is nice to have something I enjoy to do to pass the time away from family. Its just a bonus that I know how to make clothes for my little one.

What item in your shop is your favorite, and why? This peasant dress if my favorite ( at least for now)The fit is very flattering for petite or large children and the belt can double as a headband.

What is your goal in making your items? I create things for moms and kids that I would use for my own child. Everything is tested and pre washed to make sure that it lasts!With so many toys and baby items on the market being recalled. My goal was to make something SAFE for children and why not make it fun stylish and functional?

Anything else you would like people to know about you or your items? My daughter is my greatest joy and I am so happy I have been able to spend the last 2 years at home with her. Making things for your baby allows me to stay home with mine.

You can visit her shop here: bubblesandmimi.etsy.com