Introducing Greenbelts…

I enjoy introducing artists now and again, who really spark my interest, and I’ve found someone who not only makes astonishingly original pieces, but she does it using recycled materials that we all wear out and throw away – belts.

Her name is Shannon Ritscher.  She is from Seattle, WA.  Shannon is a part-time graphic designer and part-time crafter (Greenbelts), but she is also a full-time, stay at home mom to her 4 year old son – Henry.  (Round of applause for balancing all three and rockin’ it out on Etsy at the same time!)  She’s awesome, is an inspiration, has a ton to choose from on Etsy and I seriously have so many favorites, it makes my head spin!

I don’t know about you, but I think the growth process of artists, when they work from the ground up, is a beautiful thing.  Shannon started listing on Etsy in June of 2007.  When I asked her about her early beginnings, she recalled, making collars and cuffs for friends and family for Christmas presents just 6 months before she opened shop.  She said they liked them so well that she thought she’d try her hand at selling them.  As Shannon thought back, she said, “I worked out of my neighbors basement for one full year before my husband finally built me a little work space (shed) on our back porch just a few months ago. Yea!”  If you’re a crafter, you can likely relate.  I know I started working at the kitchen table, which was followed by a relocation to our home office, with yet another bulge into our guest bedroom.  I don’t think the growth and development ever ends. 

I asked Shannon what her favorite material or materials are to use.  I’ve already said belts were one, but you’ll see from her work, she also enjoys working with buttons, found objects, and bottle caps and humorously, a favorite of most but not often thought of, Shannon’s other favorite thing to work with is “time.”   

Shannon’s personal favorite of the items in her shop is a toss-up, but here was her response…  “The first one is a cuff made from a very cool weathered leather belt, a giant metal washer, and an amazing vintage dark abalone carved button. The contrast between the materials makes my heart flutter. I also have a soft spot for the red, white and black large cut flower cuff and collar setthat I have listed right now. I just about go cross-eyed every night, sitting and cutting out flowers (TONS of flowers!). I think they look adorable though – especially on. I love things that are girly but without all the frill.”  I’m sure there are lots of people out there that share Shannon’s taste!

When I asked her what she loves about handmade items, Shannon said she loves the unexpected aspect of handmade items.  Wonderfully said, Shannon’s additional comments were, “when you see something fantastic that is made from something else (recycled) and/or something that is uniquely beautiful – Well, there’s nothing better.”  She also added, “I do tend to gravitate toward recycled pieces because I love things that have a story behind them.”  I too love stories and because I’m a talker, love things that generate fun conversation!  Shannon’s items are and do, exactly that, which may be why I love them so much!  Plus, I’m an animal lover with three dogs – what fashionable, dog owner girl wouldn’t love having a matching dog collar and owner cuff set?  They’re sweet!

For all of our Etsy readers out there, I always think it’s good to know how other Etsians are promoting.  I’m a firm believer in working smarter, and not harder, so I’m regularly looking to borrow ideas from other successful people.  Shannon’s success has come primarily from promoting her items through her website, a blog, her Etsy shop, Myspace, and similar web based opportunities.  

Even though we are pretty much saturated by technology these days, I know some people still don’t realize the power and marketing potential of the Internet.  With 386 Etsy items sold and having 100% positive feedback, Shannon is one to prove that it works! 

Shannon says that most of her promotional efforts have been put on hold until her son starts school next year and she has a little more time to give it a good effort.  Currently, she has products in 8 stores, from Seattle to the UK.  She has a portfolio on TrunkT, her Greenbelts are featured on www.seekingdesigners.com and various blogs like www.pupstyle.com, itsthedogslife.com, www.treehugger.com, www.ourgreatgreenglobe.com, etc.  She is also gearing up to attend some local art/craft shows this summer.  Jeesh!  For having her promotions on “hold,” I’d say she’s pretty active and thriving!

Shannon had some kind words for me for featuring her in my blog, but after learning about her, her talents, and drive, I have this to say to her: Shannon –>YOU rock! 

High Five!

And lastly – one more thing about Shannon — she’s great because her birthday is the same day as Anthony and I’s wedding Anniversary…December 17th. 

And to top it off…

I just got some lovely news from my very first friend EVER on Etsy – marie fly fly.  She said she has seen me “ALL OVER” Etsy!  It was totally news to me, but she said that she’s seen me in the gift guides, in treasuries, and in the Etsy finds news (not sure what that is yet, but I’m gonna find out!)  Oh!  It made me happy and even got a big “high five” from the hubby!    I went to the gift guides and, low and behold…there I am!  I’m actually on the first page of the “Everyday $15.00 and under” gift guide! 

So, as I like to do, I’ve saved the image for posterity and here it is:
Good Night All!    Sweetest dreams! 

Wow! What a Day Yesterday! :)

Have you ever done the happy dance?  You know…

~**~._.wigGGle._~**~_.giGGgle._~**~_.jUMp!._~*$*~_:)!yAy!:)
_.wigGGle._~**~_.wigGGle._~**~_.wWEEEeeeeee!!!!._~**~_.
tWIst._~**~_.tURn._~**~_.shOUt!._~**~_.jUMp!._~**~_.yAY 4 Me!!!._.~**~

Well, I am DOIN’ the HAPPY DANCE!!  Yesterday, I sold a bracelet, then ten minutes later, had a request to make and re-list one of my sold items, THEN I sold another bracelet within twenty minutes!!!  THEN… this morning I got a treasury on Treasury West – you might be in it! 
View it here: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=5463).   

I just I have no idea what happened.  I am going to say that it’s karma.  What goes around, comes around.  Help others and it always comes back to help you!  I’m so excited!  So, now I’ve got to get crackin’!  After some morning exercise, I’ll be packing up jewelry, making some more, and painting some glassware for the boutique that I have to visit next week…can’t wait to show you what I’ve come up with!!  Whoo Hooo!!! Yay! 

Oh… Here’s a little fun for you.  A GUESSING GAME:  Can you guess which item I was requested to re-list?  Go to my Etsy Store to see what sold and make some guesses in the comments, as to what was requested for a re-list. 

I’m going to post again later, but until then, I’ll share a pic of the little chicken that is going to be making it’s way to my mom in the mail…My mom collects chickens and she quilts.  My mother in law had these little chickens in her kitchen and it totally reminded me of my mom.  I asked about them and she told me a friend of hers made them, so I asked about paying her friend to make me one, but she just gave this one to me instead!  My mother in law is so nice!  So, my mom doesn’t know it yet, but she’s going to be getting a gift!  Not sure how much she reads my blog, but if she does, SURPRISE!  You’re getting a cute, little, quilted chicken!    ISN’T IT ADORABLE?!!!

  

If you have an hour and a half…

Another video from Randy Pausch.  It’s about Time Management.
Watch this…it’s worth the time you’ll invest. 

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5784740380335567758

New Etsy Shops and Finds

Not too long ago, I was featured on the Cache Valley Boutique blog.  In helping to drive traffic to the blog, I offered to feature some artists in my blog.  After enjoyably browsing their shops and wares, I have created a list to share with you.  Many of the shops have offered discounts and incentives for my blog readers so, when you buy, mention NICOLE LEE ARTISTRY’S BLOG in the “message to seller.”  I’ve noted all incentives in RED.  It is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of awesome handmade items.  Let’s begin.

MY BOYS – Custom Cards, Prints and Designs for ANY Occasion…even Web Banners!    Announcements, Thank You Cards, Save the Date Cards, Business or Pleasure –  you’re sure to find something!  Lots to choose from and custom designs are welcome.  Here’s a personal message from Holly, the mind and crafter behind the MyBoys store…”I will soon be adding a personalized stationary line! This line will feature monogrammed stationary with both simple and funky designs. As with all my products, I love to do custom orders, so if you have something specific in mind, just let me know!  Thanks, Holly”  BONUS FOR NLA BLOG READERS: Free shipping on orders over $50  Here’s a selection of what you’ll find at MyBoys Shop,

    

DaisyWares  - Hand Made Vegan Jewelry & Vegan Beauty Products.  DaisyWares uses NO animal by-products and donates 10% of all sales to the Animal Place in Vacaville, CA. They are a wonderful organization that rescues abused farm animals. How nice!  DaisyWares is also a proud member of Vegan Etsy.  BONUS FOR NLA BLOG READERS: 10% off anything in the DaisyWares store and Buy one get one free on the children’s jewelry section! (Children’s section only)  Check out these great items in DaisyWare’s Etsy shop:

    
 

Montagyoo:  Colorful and original photos and collages.  The beautiful colors and images she has will catch your eye, tug at your heart strings and definitely elicit some emotions.  Many of the images in Sara’s store make me reminisce of places I’ve been before and bring back some good memories.  Perhaps it will do the same for you! BONUS FOR NLA BLOG READERS:  Sara will send you a FREE 4×6 photo print (randomly of her choosing) with all orders that are accompanied with mention of NICOLE LEE ARTISTRY’S BLOG in the “message to seller.”

     

kishcrafts - Totally unique and amazing polymer clay creations in the shapes of many, many items, but mostly foods and sweets!  Whether you’re looking for unique gifts for others or something special for yourself, trust me when I say, this is a fun shop to look at!  You’ll be amazed at the teeny, tiny creations and the incredible details in the art!  The food creations look mouth-wateringly real and will make your taste buds definitely perk!  Almost anything listed can be made into earrings, pins/brooches, cell phone charms, rings and necklaces and custom designs are welcome, so let your imagination run free!  Here’s a personal note from kishcrafts…”I am so proud to be one of your spotlight artists. Thanks again for taking the time to feature me and my little sweet treat creations!! I would like to welcome all of nicoleeartistry’s blog readers to pop on over to my etsy shop and take a look around. If you see something that catches your eye, I would be more than happy to offer you a 10% discount on any 1 item in my shop.”

   

julscrafts: A very sweet, stay-at-home MOM who enjoys making a variety of crafts.  You never know what you might find in her store, but she has a lot of beautiful dried floral arrangements that would warm any home.  She also has a collection of unique destash.
BONUS FOR NLA BLOG READERS:   20% off your total order when you mention NICOLE LEE ARTISTRY in the “message to seller.”  The more you buy, the more you will save on shipping costs also!

  

Wings of Healing:  Offers some awesome images in the form of post cards, greeting cards, or amazing framed art for your wall.  Most images have a lovely description or story to accompany it, so you get to learn about the images as you shop.  BONUS FOR NLA BLOG READERS: Greeting cards - Buy One Get One Free AND FREE SHIPPING on Matted photography in the United States!  Here’s a personal note from Nicole at Wings of Healing:  “I hope that you enjoy the scenes you are about to partake of.  Scenes that I hope will bless your spirit and soul.  Take the time to rest and don’t overdo it. Surround yourself with a plethora of peace, whether it be your own backyard or even scenes and music in your office or car. Thank you.  Sincerely, Nicole (Nikki)”  Wings of Healing - an enjoyable read and quite enjoyable to the eye:

    
  
You can also visit her website at: http://www.wings-of-healing.com

And lastly, BUT DEFINITELY NOT LEAST…

The White Lye Soap Co. - offers handmade soap, bath and lip luxuries using the cold process method of soap-making.  All White Lye Soap Co. bath and body delights contain fresh botanicals, luscious fruits and veggies, and many other delightful additives.  They have a wonderful selection of goods for many occasions and I think you’ll see…
you’ll also find some truly delightful gift ideas as well!

       

It’s All About Setting Goals

What are your dreams?  What do you want more than anything?  What do you think about that you hope for and desire?  Think about it for a moment and ask yourself if you are doing anything about your dreams.  Do you make an effort to make your dreams a reality or do you chalk it up as having your “head in the clouds?”

R U …   OR   ?

I believe that we have dreams for a reason and I believe that reason is destiny.  I think that the universe and God urge us in directions that propel us towards our dreams, and if we let it happen, are willing to trust, and we keep an open mind, I truly believe that we can make our dreams happen. 

Part of making our dreams a concrete reality is setting goals.  When we set goals, we are making a commitment to invest in making our aspirations REAL.  Goals should be tangible, reasonable and measurable, should offer emotional satisfaction and benefit our overall dream, and should be something we can visualize happening.  When you set goals, you are creating an outline for your future.  It’s exciting to know that, when we set and achieve a new goal, WE are making OUR OWN wishes come true!  Knowing that we have the ability to play part in creating our own destiny is so empowering!     

Every day, week, month and year, I set goals for myself and I write them down.  I look at them regularly and I let other people know what my goals are.  I revise them if they need to change and I work hard to make them happen. 

My goals for March were to:
1.  Get to my 10th sale on Etsy
2.  Obtain 200 hearts on Etsy
3.  Get at least one local shop/boutique to carry some craft that I make.
4.  Make more money on Etsy than I made last month.

I am happy to report that I have 11 Etsy sales, I am at 180 hearts on Etsy, I have gotten one local shop to carry my items (possibly more before March is over) and as of last night, I have now made more this month than last month, so I am super close to meeting ALL goals set for the month of March.  Yay! (Thank you to Deborah in Pennsylvania for buying two necklaces last night!)

 

It is such a good feeling to achieve your goals.  I’d like to hear what your goals are and what you do to achieve them.  Please comment and share!    Maybe we can help one another!

Jewelry Survey — A STUPENDOUS SUCCESS!!!

Thank you to all who participated in my jewelry survey!  I collected my 100 participants within 2 hours!!!!  That is outstanding!  If you tried to participate and the survey link didn’t work, it was probably because I had already collected my 100 by the time you arrived to help me out.  Thank you for trying though!  I do appreciate it! 

To view all of the results, you can select the page I created (see top navigation of my blog) or click here –> http://nicoleleeartistry.wordpress.com/jewelry-survey-results-are-in/

Please help by taking my jewelry survey.

I’ve been wanting to collect information on what types of jewelry people like and what they are interested in, as well as what they would pay.  I’ve decided to put together a short survey, so if you could help me out, I’d appreciate your feedback!  (There are 10 Questions.)

Click Here to take survey

Butterfly Chic Boutique…

….very kindly featured my blue watermelon earrings in her blog today.    Butterfly Chic Boutique specializes in Custom Graphics, including Banners, Ads, paper and fabric creations.  Here is a selection of their Etsy inventory, but visit their store to see more!  They also have a Cafe Press Shop and a beautiful Websiteoutside of Etsy.  
 

Popular Bracelet is now sold…

After making my “Red Hot Wood Necklace,” I received a custom order request for a bracelet that was similar.  After making the adorable bracelet and listing it, the listing go so many positive reviews that I think I’m going to have to make another and re-list! 
It’s made of large, natural wood beads, red coral rounds, and a copper toggle closure.

 
It’s getting ready to go to it’s happy new owner, Rachel, later today.  :O) 
Isn’t it adorable?  She has excellent taste! 
THANKS RACHEL!

What do you think?  Should I re-list it?