Sunday, August 31, 2008

Great Mom, Great Cause

Follow Etsyian and yet another Fabulous Artistic Mom, Amy of Giggleberry Creations is in the process of planning a major fundraiser help with program and life costs for her 7-year-old, Felicity, who has severe Autism.


Amy's family has found an amazing program through the Autism Treatment Center of America, and Felicity has made major strides already, but they need your help. Since the program is based in the U.S. and Amy's family lives in Sydney, Australia, travel expenses are mounting, and Amy has joined with the families of two other autistic children to help raise the funds they need to continue Felicity's development.

You can read more about Amy's family and the masquerade ball fundraiser here. Amy is asking fellow Etsy shop owners to donate items to be auctioned off at the event. If you can help, convo Amy via Giggleberry on Etsy.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Elegant Snobbery is a Handmade Kids Challenge Finalist

Fellow Fabulous Artistic Mom, super-talented illustrator, and all-around great gal, Marisa of Elegant Snobbery, is getting a teeny tiny bit of the recognition she deserves this week. Her "Hello Friend" print is a finalist in the art category of The Storque's Handmade Kids Challenge.


You can vote for your favorite in the art category here. Find a complete list of contest categories here. The winners in each category win a $200 etsy shopping spree and everyone who votes in the contest is entered to win one of 14 $350 etsy shopping sprees. Nice!

Congrats to Elegant Snobbery and good luck!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Featured Artist on Winklepots Blog

Macaroni and Glue is this week's featured artist on the Winklepots blog.


Check out the interview for some little-known Mac & Glue facts, and check out Winklepots on Etsy for amazing hand-painted children's clothing and other super cuteness!

Saturday, August 23, 2008

August Featured EtsyBlogger - Tulip's Treasure Box

This month's featured EtsyBlogger is Tulip's Treasure Box, jewelry artist and blogger extraordinaire from the sunshine state (hope you're safe and dry!). Congrats, Lily, on your month of EtsyBloggers fame. Please take a few minutes to check out her super cute Etsy shop. If you like a beachy feel and a cool color palette, you're in for a treat. Here are a few of my faves:




Friday, August 22, 2008

More Front Page Love and an Earlybird Special

Front page twice in one week?!? Yes, apparently it's possible. Last night the Storque treasury from the EtsyBloggers feature made the Etsy front page - woohoo!


And over in my shop, my 2008 holiday boxed sets are up and ready for purchase. As a bit of an incentive to stock up on cards early, I'm offering a $1.00 Paypal refund for every holiday card set purchased before October 1st. Fun, huh?

Thursday, August 21, 2008

EtsyBloggers in The Storque


EtsyBloggers is turning up the heat so far this August! With an increased focus on team treasuries and promotions, and a big anniversary sale this month, our team is definitely moving up in the world. Yesterday, The Storque included an awesome feature on EtsyBloggers.



Not only was it fabulous for the team to be featured, I was thrilled to find three of my products pictured in the article, as well as my Kitschy Kitschy Coo cards in the Storque-picked "related items" section.


Sheesh. Front page AND The Storque in one week... I could positively kiss somebody over there at Etsy.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Front Page Rocks!

There I was yesterday, just minding my own business at the gym, when suddenly my iPhone was all abuzz with convos and emails. "Whatever could it be?" I thought....

Front page, baby!


That rocks. What else can I say? Thanks to Winklepots for being the very first to let me know, and to Christina Williams for sending me a screenshot.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Blog Award - Sweet!

Thanks to one of my the sweetest people I've ever virtually "met," Nikki of Nikki's Nacs and the Nikki's Nacs blog, for nominating me for a blog award!


Here are the rules for passing on the love:

1. Put the logo on your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who awarded it to you.

3. Nominate at least 5 other blogs.

4. Add links to these blogs on your blog.

5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog.

And so (drumroll please) here are my nominees:

* Elegant Bloggery
* Michon Jewelry and Crafting Blog
* LJ Design & Photo
* Pyong Bricole
* Andrea Baker Designs

Thanks again, Nikki!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Holiday 2008 Preview

Holiday 2008 designs are here! Although they've not cropped up in the Etsy shop as of yet, the Macaroni and Glue holiday designs are now officially available (whew!). Look for these new listings, at early-shopper prices, to show up in the next few days. Here's a preview of what we've got cookin' for the holidays this year:






Wednesday, August 13, 2008

SALE - EtsyBloggers Birthday Bash!

SALE!! EtsyBloggers 1st Anniversary SALE!! *5 DAYS ONLY* 8/13 thru 8/17


We are the official street team for those who love to blog abut their craft, the creative process, and other Etsians! In the EtsyBloggers team you will find a global group of talented artists who offer a wide range of items which are handmade, vintage, and supplies.

Visit these EtsyBloggers shops from Wednesday 8/13 thru Sunday 8/17 and celebrate our team's 1st Anniversary with us!!

http://www.abracapocus.etsy.com Digital Illustrations, Photography and Note CardsFree Shipping on all items

http://AKeepersJackpot.etsy.com All items except custom orders:Spend $10-19.99 save 10% on your orderSpend $20-29.99 save 20% on your orderSpend $30 or more save 30% on your orderFree domestic shipping (US) on all orders over $50*If paying with PayPal, I will refund your savings after purchase.

http://aprettyrock.etsy.com Handcrafted Limited Edition JewelryBut One, Get One 1/2 half off (of equal or lesser value - no custom items, please)

http://aromaticbodyoils.etsy.com Soaps, Lotions, Skincare, The Works20% off any order

http://beadedtail.etsy.com Jewelry for animal lovers!10% off all items (excluding shipping) with code "Bloggers sale!"

http://bfbeads.etsy.com Breastfeeding jewelry, necklaces & braceletsFree priority mail shipping on orders over $25

http://calkat.etsy.com 20% off everything!Unique Artisan Jewelry

http://CandyStickLane.etsy.com See sale section for specials.Free shipping on all orders

http://www.chicycreations.etsy.com A free gift with all orders over $10.00 (before shipping)

http://colorfuldayz.etsy.com 25% Most ItemsPillows, Cases, Cards and other Fabric Goodies

http://cozy.etsy.com I will refund 20% of purchase price to all sales from August 13th to August 17th.(excluding shipping which is flat rate fee by Priority Mail no matter how large the order)

http://CraftyChefGraphics.etsy.com 250 free business cards with a pre-made or custom design package.

http://dizzydragonflies.etsy.com Free shipping and an extra 10% refunded if you mention that you heard about the sale from etsy bloggers!!

http://donnapool.etsy.com All Pocket Mirrors and Puzzle Ball Toys & Christmas Ornaments50% off

http://www.dorsethillbeads.etsy.com Unique handmade lampwork beadsFREE SHIPPING on all purchase...Special SALE section with already Reduced Priced items

http://FaerieRebecca.etsy.com Natural dolls and playthings10% off items in sale section

http://FaerieWaldorf.etsy.com Inspiration and supplies for the homeschooling familyFree shipping on all items

http://goldtonedesigns.etsy.com Accessories, Luxury Lounge Travel Wraps10% off all items with code Bloggers10%

http://homemadeoriginals.etsy.com See special sale section in my shop

http://impawsibletoresist.etsy.com See Sale section in my shop

http://joeyandaleethea.etsy.com Super cool baby and children's clothing...monster onesies, monster jeans, Ankle Biters...FREE SHIPPING plus 10% OFF everything in our shop!!

http://julieantinucci.etsy.com "Handmade Items for Everyday Use."See My Special Sale Section.

http://LazyTcrochet.Etsy.com Many items on SALE now, plus get FREE SHIPPING on orders of $40.00 or more.(Custom orders not included.)

http://www.lieblingdesigns.etsy.com jewelry25% off in SALE section, free shipping on orders of $50 or more using promo code EB08 in notes to seller!

http://macaroniandglue.etsy.com Take $2.00 off any boxed blank note or thank you card set!See SALE sections in my shop for all the designs to choose from

http://madebymelissa.etsy.com Jewelry, Vintage, Supplies, CrochetBuy any 2, get the 3rd half off

http://mamasmagicstudio.etsy.com "Fraternal earrings" and dragonfly suncatchersFree priority mail shipping on orders over $25

http://memoriesforlifesb.etsy.com Buy one Custom Name/Word Album, get $5 a second album.Buy two Custom Name/Word Albums, get $15 off a third album.

http://miesmama.etsy.com 10% off everything in my shop, to be refunded through paypal.

http://myaphrodite.etsy.com Passionate Jewelryfree shipping

http://www.pinetreedesigns.etsy.com Hand Stitched Paper Art for You and Your HomeFree Shipping!

http://www.rockababyclothingco.etsy.com Vintage inspired clothing for children and their dolliesFree Shipping (Sale items included)

http://rockstash.etsy.com Gemstones, beads and more!Free Shipping on orders over $20

http://roseworksjewelry.etsy.com Free Shipping and 10% off - jewelry.

http://scottieacres.etsy.com 10% off on all orders.Discount will be refunded or you can convo to have price adjusted prior to checkout.

http://shellmitchell.etsy.com cute fingerless glovesfree shipping!

http://spottedcowsoaps.etsy.com Handcrafted soaps & toiletries, Crochet Bath Accessories, Soy Candles & MoreCheck out our sale section for reduced price items.

http://storybeader.etsy.com Special EtsyBloggers 1st Anniversary SaleGreat jewelry and beaded items, ½ off regular priceLook in Section: Anniversary Sale

http://stormydesigns.etsy.com FREE shipping on orders of $10 or more.Your choice of a FREE pair of earrings with order of $20 or more.

http://sugarlovehoney.etsy.com baby shower items, wedding items, tutus, pillowcase dresses, tote bags10% Off All Items in my shop!

http://thefabmissb.etsy.com Find Your One of a Kind!Free shipping on all vintage and original greeting cards for the Etsy Bloggers Team Sale!

http://thejumpoff.etsy.com See sale section for specialsFree shipping on all orders

http://theophany.etsy.com Original art, photography, hand painted bags, and more..Free shipping during sale!

http://ToteNTots.etsy.com Free domestic and international (Australia, Canada, Europe) shipping on orders $40.00 and more.

http://TulipsTreasureBox.etsy.com See my EtsyBloggers 1st Anniversary Sale Section AND Shop Announcement for more...

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5508373§ion_id=5417430

http://twozanyzebras.etsy.com Free shipping on all itemsSpecializing in all things zany for babies including: blankets, bibs, stuffies and clothes.

http://weeoneslittlethings.etsy.com Boutique Baby Essentials, Blankets and Baby CarriersBuy one item, get the 2nd of equal or lesser value for 50% off!!!!

http://wylesstyle.etsy.com See special sale section in my shopI have an assortment of items on sale, including purses, totes, wristlets and clutches.

♥ You can always find the beautiful items from our team members by searching for "etsybloggers team": http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Teams Treasury

This morning I'm running out the door for my daughter's class and my (fasting - argh!) blood work. No, nothing's wrong - I'm just old apparently and require such things in advance of a routine physical.

Anywho, since I have nothing interesting to say (and am too grumpy and hungry anyway), I'll leave you with my pretty green treasury, which includes someone from each of my beloved street teams!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Coming Soon - Baby Stuff!

Although you wouldn't know it to look at my Etsy shop, birth announcements have always been and continue to be a big part of my offline business. Most of the time, I create a completely custom design for each new mama, but I've lately been channeling a bit of my non-Holiday design energy into creating some stock layouts. In preparation for a client meeting last week, I was able to find some fun new design elements, play around with baby-inspired color schemes, and come up with some initial offerings that I really love. A little more modern than my usual stuff. Here's a sneak peek at a few of my "flowers and pinwheels" layouts.






Look for these designs to show up in the shop sometime after my Holiday line launch at the end of the month! Got feedback? I'd love to hear it!

Friday, August 8, 2008

Stuff I Love - Jewelry Edition

This week has found me struggling with a bit of a creative block (not to mention persistent equipment issues, but that's another post entirely...). After cranking out my back to school selections for Artiste (take a peak at the new stuff here), I've attempted to resume work on my 2008 holiday line, only to find that what's coming out on the page, so to speak, is.... well... let's just say it's "lacking." Given the 100+ degree heat and my self-imposed August 15th deadline for launching the line, perhaps the cards are just stacked against me, but I've had quite a bit more difficulty back getting into a creative headspace this time than I normally would. And procrastination seems to be the order of the day.

And sooooooo... like any self-respecting procrastinatress (ya like that?), I've decided to spend a few minutes here with you playing show and tell with a few of my favorite pretty, girly things, all created by fellow Fabulous Artistic Moms.

These silver hoops by sarawestermark make my heart go pitter-patter:


This family pendant by theprettypeacock would make a fabulous gift for any mom!


These squiggly earrings by merkabajewelry are simply stunning:



I feel like these striking red earrings by PinkfireDesigns would be perfect with almost anything in my closet...


I just adore this ultrafeminine birdie pendant by earthexpressions:


And, sorry, but you can't have these. 'Cause I already do! I just had to show off these fantastic earrings by JGEdgeWear:


Check out the FAM Blog for more beautiful mom-made creations.

And now, back to the drawing board (literally). Have a great Friday!

Thursday, August 7, 2008

A Little Bitta Blog Love

This morning I received a lovely little convo from sassalynne saying that she'd featured my cards on her blog. And what an adorable little blog it is too! Rather than wait around for the treasury to open up and spending eons putting together the perfect compilation of items, only to have it expire in a few short days, this resourceful blogger puts together daily, permanent, lovely little mini-treasuries on any theme she fancies that day. And like the real thing, her treasuries always link back to the featured items, so her blog is a great place to grab a quick "best of" when you need a little Etsy fix.

I did a little browsing and this girl's got great taste (ahem - if I do say so myself...). Here's just a screen grab of Wednesday's picks:



(Sorry - apparently that pic's just going to be tiny...). Check out Sassa's Etsy Treasury for yourself and don't forget to leave a little comment love!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Wednesday Eye Candy - Shiny Objects Showcase

I don't know about you, but I'm in the mood for something light this morning. Feast your eyes, if you will, on my latest Trunkt showcase.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Guest Vendor with Artiste Congo


Tonight at 9 PM, Artiste Congo is stocking for Back to School and I'm honored to be joining them as guest vendor. Along with several of my best-selling card sets, I'll be offering some fun new college-themed sets that will be sold exclusively through Artiste until the end of the month. Here's a sneak peek:





Although I initially panicked when I heard we were going with a Back to School theme, I confess that I really enjoyed the design challenge and am looking forward to the chance to offer my line through another venue. Thanks to Valerie of Valerie's Gallery for putting me in touch with these talented ladies and to Sue of Pink Lemonade Shop for patiently walking me through the ins and outs of the stocking process. Check out all the Artiste Back to School offerings here and don't forget to "spot" your faves so you can get 'em tonight!

Monday, August 4, 2008

Scavenger Hunt!

Those fabulous FAMs are at it again. Through August 10th, Macaroni and Glue is participating in the Fabulous Artistic Moms street team's Back to School Fling and Scavenger Hunt.


Calling all players! We've got another great game for you - a Back To School (B2S) Scavenger Hunt where each of us have hidden either a little owl in one of our Etsy pics or the text “B2S” in an item description. All you need to do is find one of those owls in five different participating shops, submit your answers to Pandys or AbleMabel and you’ll be entered to win one of several FAMtastic FAMBucks prizes. In addition to the FAM Spring Fling Scavenger Hunt, all purchases made in the participating FAM Shops on Etsy will automatically be entered in the drawing.

HOW TO PLAY:

Each participating Etsy store has hidden the image of our FAM owl (above) or the text “B2S” in one or more of their listing descriptions or listing photos. Find the owl image or text in 5 participating shops and be entered for a chance to win! All purchases made from participating shops during the promotion will also be entered into the drawing.

Send your guesses to: Pandy's or AbleMabel on Etsy and please include the following information:

- Your name
- Your Etsy username (just a quick sign-up if you don't yet have one!)
- Your email address
- The URL to the items where you found the owls or B2S text

The drawing will be held shortly after the end of the event. The winners will be notified by convo or email. All entrants agree to have their names announced in the Etsy forums and on blogs.

PRIZES:

The prizes being awarded are FAM Bucks which are FAM Team coupons used in participating FAM stores on Etsy. FAM Bucks are codes that entitle the bearer to receive discounts in participating FAM stores. FAM Bucks allow the winner to choose their prize from any of the participating FAM stores. What a great prize!

Grand Prize: $100
Runner Up: $50
Honorable Mention: $10

Check out the FAM Blog for a complete list of participating shops!

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Fun New Toys From Trunkt

The folks at Trunkt have been hard at work adding fun new features for premium portfolio holders. Among other improvements, the Trunkt team recently released a tool for embedding a portfolio in your blog. Let's try this together, shall we, with the portfolio of one of Trunkt's founders, Dev Tandon...



Fun! And did you now you can also now send images from Trunkt portfolios as e-greeting cards to help spread the word about your favorite artists and designers? So get over there and start sharing the love, people!