Crafty Vixens Store's topics - tribe.net

Product photos

Bellatrix — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:13:17 GMT

I sell custom-made tribal bellydance clothing & accessories, specializing in the plus-size genre, and in addition to my tribe http://tribes.tribe.net/belliphat , we also have an Etsy store that's been up since February: http://belliphat.etsy.com I am not very happy with my photos of my items, and I fear that they are actually hindering my sales. I take all of the pictures myself, as I can't afford to hire someone else to do it -- and I generally feel that they (a) aren't very eye-catching, and (b) don't really capture how beautiful these items are in person. They look rather drab in the photos compared to how lush they look in person.

Since I don't have the funds to hire a professional photographer (the catch-22 of being a start-up), does anyone have any suggestions on what I can do to make my photos more interesting, lush & appealing - while still conveying all of the information about the items that I need to?

Any help given would be truly appreciated. Thanks!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 7 replies

Any suggestions on how to sell thousands of plus size patterns?

Laura — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:08:50 GMT

I have a huge collection of plus size patterns for ladies. I was overweight for most of my life, and then I lost 200 + pounds, and I have literally thousands of patterns from my days as a larger lady. I am cleaning out my craft/sewing room to make the house less cluttered and move myself into a life of simpler living.

Any ideas on a good way to market and sell the patterns? All are in EXCELLENT condition, and hundreds of them have never even been cut!

I appreciate your suggestions!

The new kid around here :)

Laura

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 4 replies

Online stores

lobocita — Sun, 06 May 2007 17:26:15 GMT

So how has the web been treating your business? Just thought I would take a general survey of how things are for everyone.

1. Do you find yourself doing more or less work to make online sales in 2007?

2. Are the new tools of the internet helping your sales... such as blogs, YouTube, and more?

3. Do you find yourself buying third-party services to help online sales, such as yahoo ads, email services, evite and others?

4. Have you changed your real world sales efforts because of online sales: going to craft fairs more or less? Selling on commission in stores more or less? etc etc

Just trying to kick up some conversation in here, I know we are all interested in discussing our crafty stores.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 12 replies

Tips for a new online seller

melaney — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 13:46:42 GMT

Hello everyone. I've been selling clothing on ebay and other such sites for a couple years now, but in the past few months I've started an actual website of my own. It's called Wings of Sin and I do bellydance and gothic clothing and jewelry all hand made. I really want to get it out there and I've found a few ways, but I was wondering if all you fine crafters out there had any tips for someone new in the business. Any advice would be welcome and appreciated. Thanks!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 4 replies

Hello everyone!

niccolina — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 21:51:42 GMT

Hi everyone, my names Niccolina (Nic to my friends) and I'm new on the site. Seems like this is an active group, which is good. Look forward to getting to know each of you....and feel free to introduce yourself to me.

Have a great weekend!

Nic

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Crafts on YouTube

lobocita — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 16:45:42 GMT

Recently Kat wrote:

"my pieces do not seem like something made for YouTube"

I say "use your creativity to find a way to put your crafts on YouTube"...

Turn your craft into a superhero (a lampshade can save the decor of the most banal apartment!)
Turn your craft into a health recommendation (4 out of 5 doctors recommend a nifty lampshade for optimal health)
Turn your craft into an important family member (show videos of the family celebrating the lampshades birthday, first steps, first day of school, etc)

Bah! Use your creativity!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

another newbie...

marion — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 14:20:52 GMT

I'm marion/artmixter. I am a Scottish artist living and working in Norfolk, UK, with a shop on etsy and one on DaWanda, not to mention sundry blogs, pages and the like...I pop up all over the place <g>. I've been a maker for a long time, but I'm new to online selling. Looking forward to getting to know folks here, and to learning from you...and maybe being able to share some experience; I do have ten years experience in training and development/personnel, which comes in handy sometimes...<g>.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Spam vs permission marketing

lobocita — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 16:39:31 GMT

There is a huge difference between spam and permission marketing. For your marketing purposes, you might be afraid of the wrong thing.

If you ask people for their email address (and they give it to you), when you send them email, you are not spamming. You are sending them opportunities and business offers that they *agreed* to receive.

So, build up your client email list, let them know that you will be contacting them... and then contact them with impunity! They can choose to delete or ignore your message, or then can get something real valuable out of it.

The difference between an email that gets deleted and one that gets read: the subject line and the "from" line.

Make sure your "From" line is accurate, so that the recipient isn't confused at any time. I receive email from "Borders Rewards" quite frequently, and I tend to keep them.. just in case I have been thinking about dropping in soon. I get emails from Home Depot frequently... and I usually delete them right away, but every *once* in a while I realize "hey! I am going to be buying new trash cans soon... better keep that one".

The subject line can make or break me on deleting or not. "Save on all new boots in stock" will catch me reading an email versus "Save 10% on all orders"... I love saving money in general, but I love saving money on boots in specific. The sale might even be for all orders, but they got me to read the email by specifying boots.

So, take every opportunity to ask your visitors for permission to email them. State your policy up front (you will be sending email, you won't sell your list, and they can be removed at any time) and give them an idea on frequency (we periodically send email, we seasonally send email, we send email offers every Monday).

Then feel free to market your services to those who want to hear from you! Sending permission email marketing to a very specific 40 customers is more effective than sending spam to a random 10,000 email addresses anyway.

Hope this helps,

Jo Ann Villalobos
moderator, Crafty Vixens tribes

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Found this website

Karen — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 21:11:23 GMT

This looks like a pretty good site to sell you goods from. I just found it today, so I don't have any info on them.

www.poppytalkhandmade.com/

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

Etsy Sale

candicmt — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:14:50 GMT

Hey guys, I just wanted to let you all know that I am having a sale on all my items on Etsy.
The site is
www.candicmt.etsy.com
Go check it out...

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

Can I copyright a creative idea w/no skill to draw it?

candacecrawford — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 21:44:00 GMT

***Cross posted in Crafty Vixens tribe**

Hi everyone,

I have an idea to create a t-shirt line (sort of like the Ed Hardy line) but targeted toward people of color. Here's the problem: I can't draw. While I'm pretty crafty, figure drawing just isn't my thing. I know exactly how I want the drawings to look, but have no skill in translating the vision onto paper. Hire and artist right? But now, will the idea now become the artist's? Is there a way to protect my idea once this artist puts it to paper? Will it become 50/50? Should I just take an art class?:) Just wondering. I'm going too start a business plan, but this was one of the questions rolling through my head.

Candace

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

Looking for artists and crafters

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 05:17:40 GMT

Wanting to sell their wares in a new store in Evergreen, Colorado. The store - called RavenGlass Gallery - will be opening at the beginning of October 2007. I'm looking for artists in all sorts of mediums - musicians and writers are welcome as well. The store will be run on a commission basis with a twist. YOU set the price on your work, we add a small markup to cover costs, and you get a monthly check. Hopefully, we'll be contacting you more often because your stuff is flying off the shelves! We cover the rent, the utilities, the set up, the selling, the taxes - all you have to do is provide your art and an inventory and price list.

If you'd be interested in consigning your art , or know artists - beginning or established - who would be interested, please feel free to contact us.

We will featuring a different artist every month, in the store, online (website soon to come) and on our myspace page - www.myspace.com/RavenGlassGallery.

Feel free to call me with any questions - my cell is 515-865-5111.

Hope to be hearing from you soon - I'd love to have you on my artist's list!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 4 replies

New to the tribe:)

Laura — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 18:22:36 GMT

Hi all!

I am new around here but hubby has been a member of tribe for quite some time.

I am an avid home crafter. I have sold only a few things at craft sales, etc. for charity.

I love to sew, scrapbook, make cards, bead, stamp, heck you name it! I swear I have a small craft store in one bedroom of our house! My family agrees ~LOL~

I look forward to getting to know everyone and making some new friends.

Brightest Blessings ~

Laura

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Pricing and sizing??

dress-me-up — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 01:08:58 GMT

I am working out pricing for skirts, dresses and such.
But sizing is really hard for me. What I call a 7 some women want to call a 5.
Is there a universal guide out there?
Or can I write on my tags 40" waist? Seems sensitive.
What about S-M-L? It seem like I could go that route but that there would still be a
big verience in the actuality of how the dress or skirt fits.

Pricing you girls covered a little in my other topic...but.
What about prices on the street vs. in store pricing. It seems people think
street vending is cheeper. I would like to be competitive with store prices
and sell to the public. Prices as fallows: Sun Dress $85; Tea Dress pull over $70 zipper $75; Fan skirt $65; Ruffled Skirt $55; Mens shirts $68; Mens pants $55(reconstucted) Mens pants $70; Mens shorts $45; Little girls dresses $50

Also what about changing prices???
Thank you oh so much again.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 6 replies

They are back...but what next?

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 18:43:57 GMT

My lampshades have returned to me from a gallery showing. They are back and still for sale at my website:
http://www.ladyleopardess.com/m-beadcrafts.shtml

However, I have a few questions for people:

My lampshades go for over $100. Because of that, it is safe to say that a niche market would be the kind that would see my stuff for its beauty and would be willing to pay for it. Does anyone have any experiences in finding a market like this for their own creations?

Kat

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

San Diego Trunk Show

BurningBronwen — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 15:54:37 GMT

We are in the process of arranging a last minute pre-burn trunk show in San Diego. If anyone has suggestions on location, I'd love to hear them. Right now we have a couple of parks including Balboa, the Kava Lounge, the Epicenter in Mira Mesa and the LGBT Center in Hillcrest under consideration.

We would LOVE to have many vendors there with some items people may be clamoring for just before the Burn. Please contact me if you are interested in participating. Any items from used clothing, swap/freebie items, handmade clothing, costuming and accessories, fire toys, hoola hoops, camping gear etc is welcome.

We would also like to have some performers doing their thing if anyone is interested. Depending on the location/restrictions/permits, we may be able to host someone if they would like to do a wine/cheese tasting.

The date will be Saturday August 18th.

Feel free to email me privately or comment in the forum. We're looking forward to hearing from you.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Just getting started

Mercedes — Tue, 08 May 2007 16:10:03 GMT

A few weeks ago I launched my first website. I'm just getting started with running a crafty biusness and I would love to hear from all you guys' experience what works, what doesn't. As far as online website, marketing, and other avenues what would you recommend? I would also love to hear what you think of what I have.
www.playafur.com

Thank you
Fuzzy dreams

Mercedes

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 7 replies

Over accomidating?

dress-me-up — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 21:41:32 GMT

I sold a dress that is very nice with lots of detailing and very unique fabric for $50.
I didn't have a dressing room at the time and the girl emailed me saying that it didn't fit.
She wants to return the dress and have me make another one like it. (For the same price).

I have been looking for similar fabric and there really isn't any like it.
So I have been digging through all the back and white prints and finding some good ones.
But none even close to the original.
With all this searchin I have been doing some soul searching too. I think I under priced
this dress a lot. It is soooo unique. People have been telling me that my pricing is low and now I think I under stand what they are talking about. So now I am caught feeling like I need to accomidate her but at the same time make her a $50 dress.

Has anyone else been caught in this delicate balance? I want her to love the dress I even thought of
taking photos of the fabric, emailing them to her, then going back to the store to get the one she
picks. Then the $50 came to haunt me. I can't spend this much time on this (I just can't afford to).
What do you think is a good compromise?

Also if you have any tips on pricing. That would be so helpful. Maybe another post.

In all honesty, Amber

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 5 replies

Prepare for the Playa EVENTS-- BUY LOCAL... BUY BURNER!

Nikki — Tue, 08 May 2007 17:09:19 GMT

Calling all Crafty Vixens!!
I've put together a series of events in the city over the summer that not only will be fun but a great outlet to sell your crafts or services!!
BUY LOCAL... BUY BURNER!
If you, or someone you know would like to perform or sell something let me know. It's going to be lots of fun and a great way to support the burner community!!

Here are the details:

We are putting together a series of events connecting Burners with Burner Business products and services to get you ready for the Burn! This is a unique series of events because all vendors are Burners! It will have performing artists, a Burning Man 2007 ticket raffle, demonstrations and much more!

We are looking for an eclectic bunch of burner owned/made products to make this event a total
Prepare for the Playa event. We already have interest from El wire/light toys, personal dome structures, Faux fur coats and accessories, tattoo artists, a hair scupltress, but we know there are many other unique, quirky and just cool Burner made items out there that are screaming for an audience!

We will bring the audience to you!
Sundays 12-7pm
June 10th,
July 22nd, &
August 12th

The events will be held at Mighty 119 Utah. Tons of free parking and the bar will be open with Sunday afternoon Bloody Marys and other drink specials to get our clientele in the mood!

Our website has all the information you need including an application to join us!!
www.preparefortheplaya.com

Don't wait- vendor categories are limited to allow the best mix of products and services and ARE FILLING UP!

See you all in June!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Sold my first piece

Mema — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 13:56:10 GMT

I sold my first piece of Stained Glass this weekend. Yea!!! Right now I am bringing my work to my shop (hair Salon) wshere I have it priced and displayed. Evidentually I will probably post some on epab. Just a little leary of doing that. If I do ebay then I will list the items for a price that I will accept. I cannot affort for pieces to go too low and that is a gamble wiath ebay.

Has anyone had any experience with selling their craft on ebay?

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 10 replies

New to the Tribe, but not to the trade

Michele — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 04:11:38 GMT

Hi
Been blogging for almost a month, but just started posting in the Tribes. I am a jewelry maker, and aspiring clothing designer. I sell my pretties as Lotus Creations. I have two wholesale accounts that sell my jewelry. One in Brattleboro, VT, one in Colrain, MA. And I sell jewelry retail online at my website www.michelesstrawberryland.com and at www.strawberrylotus.etsy.com . At craft fairs and on consignment where I work at All About Beads. My goals for this year... To get my jewelry in galleries as there are so many in the "Valley" and, start submitting photos to magazines and hope to get my work published somewhere besides Beadwork Magazines' website.
I look forward to reading posts and getting to know everyone.
Blessed Be
Michele

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Workshops

Tabi — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 06:39:53 GMT

Does anyone on here do workshops related to their craft or as part of thier business? I am wondering if anyone has used Craigs List to advertise workshops and if so if you have any words of advice about this type of advertising.

Thanks,
Tabi

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 8 replies

traffic

amyirish — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 16:28:59 GMT

Help. I need ideas for bringing people into my store.

Here's what I've done so far:
took out an ad in the local newspaper, donated gift certificate to local Catholic school silent auction. Left flyers and class schedules in the following places:
post office, hair salons,grocery stores and Libraries in both Sikeston and Charleston. Visited City Halls of both Bertrand and Charleston and chatted up the staff while leaving flyers.
I'm on a heavily travelled road and I have a HUGE sign in the front yard and I hang a large, colorful quilt from the front porch when I'm open for business.
I joined the local quilters guild, volunteered for a position on the board and handed out my fall class list at their meeting.

I've also gone on the web and listed my store on every quilt and sewing related site that has store listings. I've joined the AQS in Paducah and am listed on their site as well.

How else can I get the word out?

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 7 replies

Like one-of-a-kind shirts?!

eahendrix — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 13:56:11 GMT

Hey everyone,

if you like one-of-a-kind shirts, check out www.eahendrix.com!
There is a huge Sale! Up to 90% off....

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

petrified

amyirish — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 17:32:41 GMT

The date is fast approaching. The renovation is nearly complete. I'll be opening my little quilt shop next weekend and now I'm on the verge of panic. This is the biggest thing I've ever done and it just scares me silly.

Just tell me its gonna be okay.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 4 replies

Colored Aluminum Chain source?

2libradesigns — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 08:23:16 GMT

Does anyone know where I can buy small amounts and bulk colored aluminum chain? I believe it is also called colored anodized aluminum craft chain. I have searched and searched the 'net, but to no avail.
Lisa

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 3 replies

New

Mema — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 15:17:00 GMT

Hi all, I am new here, am looking forward to learning new from all of you talented women. I have been selling my crafts for years Its nice to find others.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Been lurking.... now I'm coming out!

belial — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 19:20:46 GMT

Hi.... I've been lurking for a while, but have finally gotten my **** together and wanted to introduce myself.... I have been crafting for years, crochet, macrame, natural art, etc. I mainly sell my crochet work. www. tatsudesigns.etsy.com I have been inspired by you all and hope I can return the favor sometime....... ;) thanks

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

New Member..Beader Addict..lol

Laura Betty — Tue, 12 Sep 2006 16:15:16 GMT

Hi...My name is Laura Bett and I create beaded jewelry..I have saved beads all of my life and a few years ago decided to do something with them...I took classes at William Holland School in the Ga. Mts. (a great school for all kinds of crafty endeavors, do a Google search and check them out) and begin to create and sell necklaces and earrings....I have my work on consignment with shops and do well, also have done shows, which have been good....NOW I am very curious about selling online...SO that is why I joined this group to see what success others have had with various sites, etc. I have sold collectables on ebay and have checked out the progress of jewelry on ebay..To me it doesn't look that promising, but what do I know!!! I use alot of crystal and sparkly stuff and incorporate wire and other "items" in my creations, not just beads....I also do other crafty things that I would love to try and sell.....Hope I can add to as well as take from this group!!!! Namaste'

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

New crafty vixen entrepeneur Introducing myself --

Fragile Industries Studios — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 02:59:33 GMT

What a great tribe! I feel like I've stumbled into the kind of party where you don't know anyone, but can't wait to meet everyone. I've learned a lot already just from cruising the discussion threads.

shameless promotion: http://www.fragileindustries.com

I'm an altered artist selling ready-made and custom work: altered books, shrines, embellishments, and lots of wedding-related items. I'm hoping that the custom work will catch on, especially as gifts. My site is a work-in-progress, and probably always will be. I am a very reluctant self-taught geek in web matters.

I describe my trade as "participatory" -- I won't repeat the explanation here, but it's on my homepage and more fully described on the "about the artist" page.

Any advice, comments, questions, love letters (especially if you're George Clooney) greatly appreciated.

Thanks to everyone here for the marvelous support!

Lisa
Fragile Industries Studio

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 3 replies

My first paid commission completed -- a moment of pride and humility

Fragile Industries Studios — Mon, 31 Jul 2006 18:57:46 GMT

My work is mostly created by commission for custom work, as I most enjoy creating pieces with the recipient in mind and according to their personal desires. My website can be seen at http://www.fragileindustries.com.

My most recent commission was for a wedding shrine for an outdoor wedding in Oregon. A shrine or altar is a devotional object, a three-dimensional assemblage with a wood base somewhat like a cabinet or box, depending on your your needs. It can be a memory object, including momentos or photos of your own choosing, and I build thematically from there. In the case of a wedding, special event or occassion, a shrine can memorialize a past wedding or be a part of the ceremony and/or event itself. They can also be wonderful gifts for such occasions.

This piece was for inclusion in the wedding ceremony and celebration, a three-day event which sounded like one part Burning Man, one part Renaissance Fair, and a great portion of the creativity and originality of the delightful couple themselves. The bride and groom wanted their guests to complete the shrine with embellishments I provided in keeping with their theme. I duplicated the beautiful colors of the invitation and painted the base, a intricately carved antique wall cabinet about 18"x9"x4" with two doors opening into a large interior recess, and two drawers underneath. I applied a collage of images, both those provided by the couple, and from Asian and Indian art (their theme) on flat areas of the surface, and applied gold leaf to the molding and elements of the carvings. I antiqued the finish with a variety of glazes and shimmery acrylics, and sent it off with more collage images (peel and stick), handmade paper on which the guests could write their good wishes to put in the drawers, and three-dimensional objects that would coordinate well, such as hand-blown glass beads, Asian coins, hand-painted and embellished tiles, pressed flowers, and so on. I even included an easy-to-use adhesive method to avoid sticky mess. The couple was ecstatic and the guests had a great time helping to create a completely personal work of art that will have great meaning for years to come.

More than any money received, more than the confidence boost of actually completing a paid commission at last, I was humbled and honored to contribute to such a special moment in the lives of these wonderful young people.

Selected photos of this semi-completed work and its embellishments as I sent them out can be seen on my Tribe photo album (accessible by a link under my photo on my personal page) I'd post the link, but the posting system here on tribe doesn't seem to accept long URLS . I will include photos from the ceremony and the finished product when I receive them. My Tribe album also includes selected images of my other work: altered books and shrines in various styles.

If you are interested in a more detailed look at my work and descriptions of my process, along with explanations of the practice and theory of altered art and assemblage, visith http://www.fragileindustries.com, or contact me at info@fragileindustries.com. I look forward to hearing from other artists and those interested in obtaining a unique and personal work of their own.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

online store catalog update

lobocita — Wed, 03 May 2006 12:23:37 GMT

So... since we all have websites online here, it interests me to know how easy or difficult it is for you to update your store catalog? I suppose we have two styles of online stores here:
1. private store (where you host your host your own website/domain and your own catalog)
2. leased store (where you build your catalog on another site: etsy.com or ebay.com, etc)

I have a private store, leased stores don't work for me.

My catalog update is about a one week process, whether I am releasing one new product or a new collection of products. sometimes i can collapse a few tasks into one day, but not if i release more than 4 products at once. It goes something like this:

Day 1. produce a great sample for photographing
Day 2. shoot great photos of sample
Day 3. do photoshop edits, produce 5 versions: master, hi-res, lg jpg, med jpg, sm jp
Day 4. stage webpage update: product descriptions, new home page, menu/nav update
Day 5. write press release, stage email design
Day 6. deploy webpage update
Day 7. deploy press release
Day 8 deploy email

Well, there is more to it than that, because we also post the press release to the webpage and have a whole area for the press to come in and pickup hi-res photos and stuff.

Anyhoo, I do all of this webpage updating with a partner, because while that is going on, we are also finishing inventory of products and shipping them to the fulfillment house so they are in their hands the day the products go live on the site (yeah yeah, ideally that should have happened long beforehand... we are working on that)

Anyhoo... am I the only one getting sick of people saying "wow, you sell things online, that must be easy... just take a photo and the money comes pouring in!"?

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

the straight poop on etsy

amyirish — Sun, 31 Jul 2005 01:17:07 GMT

I just opened my store last night out of curiosity. Does anyone know if this site is generating actual sales? Love the format, but not sure.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 15 replies

New -introducing myself

indigopegasus — Tue, 06 Jun 2006 18:28:35 GMT

Hi,

I am one zany crafter..love to create, and glad to be among the like minded.
My store link just forwards to eBay for the time being..eventually will be a stand alone store:
www.indigopegasusbazaar.com

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

I am new and just wanted to say Hi!

MrPuppets — Tue, 23 May 2006 15:30:47 GMT

Hi, I have been making things for myself for years and just recently started selling online. I am working on getting more customers into my shop so I can start selling beyond family and friends, and this looks like a great place full of good people that could help. Feel free to check out my shop and let me know what you think http:/www.mrpuppets.etsy.com and I am looking forward to talking with you and learning and helping out any way I can.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

introduction

Tue, 02 May 2006 22:00:42 GMT

Hello!

I just recently joined trib.net and came across this tribe today. I wanted to take a minute and introduce myself.

I have been making jewelry for over 10 years and selling my wares for about 3 years. I have a website (www.futuremomo.com). I've done a few local trunk shows in San Francisco, like Feria Urbana and Vestiti Roupa.

This looks like a great group and I am excited about sharing my experiences and learning from all of you.

Jessica

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

New.. Just Introducing myself!

Norma — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 12:47:21 GMT

Hello EveryBody,
I'm Norma. and I'm new on Board here. It seems like a great place to be. I look forward to
meeting all.
~Norma
Http://www.spsell.com/normasbathandbody.html

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

design your own shirt!!!

eahendrix — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 19:41:31 GMT

Go to:

www.eahendrix.com/DesignAShirt.html

And start designing...

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

CraftyVixens Store Members map

lobocita — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 19:48:12 GMT

CraftyVixens Store is excited to announce a new resource for our tribe: an interactive map of all CraftyVixens Store members around the world. Please add yourself to the map and check out your neighbors at the new CraftyVixens Members Store map.

To be added to the Crafty Vixens Store Members map, please use the instructions below, or see http://www.medior.net/craftyvixens/

NOTE: This is beta software/website, so it is still a bit clunky, but overall powerful software. Please be patient, ask fellow CraftyVixens for help. If you run into major snags, please use the feedback link at the bottom of the platial.com webpage.

Get Started
CRAFTY VIXENS STORE MEMBERS MAP

1. Register on www.platial.com, a new interactive website to map your favorite places!

2. Find CraftyVixens by clicking on the People link at top of page. Search for "CraftyVixens" with no space.

3. At the right, click on the map called Crafty Vixens Store Members map to add yourself..
- Click the "Add Places to this map" link at the bottom of the map.
- Enter your location zip code and press the Zoom to button.
- If the location is correct, click the "Next" button.
- Enter your tribe name with "CV" at the beginning.

4. Find yourself! Click on the Maps link at top of page.Search for "Crafty Vixens Store Members"

CRAFTY VIXENS RESOURCE MAPS

1. Find CraftyVixens by clicking on the People link at top of page. Search for "CraftyVixens" with no space.

2. Select from the list of Crafty Vixens maps at the right. So far we have some members maps and some resource maps.

If you have a suggestion for a new map, please send email to craftyvixens@medior.net We are adding new maps everyday! After the map is made, anyone can add a place/member to the map.

3. Add a new place to the Crafty Vixens Map by clicking on the map.
- Click the “Add Places to this map” link at the bottom of the map.
- Enter your location address, including street, city, zip then press the Zoom to button.
- If the location is correct, click the “Next” button.
- Enter the location name, web address, tags, and description. Use Google Image Search to find an image to add for the location.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

new store launch, feedback welcome

msdynomite — Mon, 06 Feb 2006 01:29:52 GMT

ok, I think I'm posting this in the right tribe. I just launched my first online store, on Etsy.com. I'm still frantically trying to finish some details, like a proper store banner and website design, but I'd say it's all 90% there. I'd love some feedback, advice, critique, etc. if any of you have a moment to check it out.

the main portal page is here: www.ultradeluxedesigns.com
which links to the individual product pages on my etsy store, which is here: www.dyno.etsy.com

thanks in advance.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 5 replies

How do you charge?

bigsockgrrl — Tue, 31 Jan 2006 07:21:52 GMT

Hi. I'm new to this tribe, and new to selling my work. I'm planning to sell stuffed animals, reconstructed clothing, and whatever else I end up making. (I also do book arts, drawing, collage, and other occasional random stuff.) I'm really in the visualizing and planning stages of this venture, so I can't show you my store or anything.

One of the things that has been baffling me about selling my stuff is that I'm not sure what to charge. I'm thinking I need to take into account the following and come up with rates for each. I'm not asking what I should charge as much as I'm asking what process you've gone through to set your rates, what you've taken into account, etc.

-hours of work on each piece $10-15 per hour? Should this depend upon which craft I'm selling?
-average market rate for similar items
-what I'd be willing to pay for such a thing
those are easy to account for, but these last few are more difficult:
-materials cost--I use a lot of recycled stuff, so it doesn't cost me much if anything. should I take that into account for prices?
-studio cost
-time and money spent on business promotion, maintenance, sales, negotiation, etc.

So, how do you calculate cost?

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 12 replies

Finally up to date on my page

SPark — Thu, 09 Feb 2006 04:58:12 GMT

I got bogged down about eight months ago in projects, and just didn't feel I had the time to stick the stuff I'd just finished up on my page. I put it off to do later. And, of course, once you start down that path, everything else just gets stacked on the "do when I have time" heap, but you never have time.

Well, this week I finally updated my webpage. I now have all my projects in galleries, nice and organized, and I've updated my for sale areas and my commission prices.

http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume

Take a look. Suggestions and feedback are, of course, welcome.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Small Business Training, Bay Area

lobocita — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 04:57:33 GMT

[cross-posted in several tribes]

This is a company that I have taken training with in the past and I recommend them. They are currently offering inexpensive business classes in the bay area [extends to Vacaville, so be sure to read!], I encourage you to pursue them:

http://www.sbdctap.com/training/index.php

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Froogle

franceschina — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 18:06:17 GMT

Are any of you using Froogle to bring traffic to your site?

I just started the process last night of adding my Etsy listings to Froogle. It's not easy or fun, but I do hope it works in the long run.

I actually did run into a technological snag as I was trying to FTP my listings to Froogle--something about not recognizing my password. Anyone else have difficulties?

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 4 replies

journals

labalianne — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 16:39:53 GMT

Do any of you happen to use journals to sell your things, or tell your customers about sales, news, new products? I have seen there are quite a few crafters that use LiveJournal and other similar things to sell their products.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 2 replies

New and introducing myself

modthyrth — Fri, 06 Jan 2006 19:45:39 GMT

Hi All,

I just wanted to write a quick note to introduce myself. I run a web based business called Tradewind Tiaras ( http://www.tradewindtiaras.com ). We specialize in handcrafted bridal accessories; mostly tiaras but also veils, hairpins, necklaces, crystal bouquets, etc. All are made from genuine pearls and Swarovski crystals.

I've been working full time on my business since may of 2001, and it's been a crazy adventure. Not at all where I thought I'd end up (I was an attorney briefly before my business took off and took over my life).

My husband is a programmer (free slave labor!) and created our e-commerce site. Our stuff is all so customizable that none of the pre-packaged solutions worked for us.

We do overture advertizing, and get a lot through word of mouth. We tried doing a very expensive full page ad in Modern Bride once. Lots of fun, but I got only one confirmed sale (for $22!) from that ad. My mom just got her MBA in marketing, however, and I'm looking forward to picking her brain.

I'm really looking forward to getting to know the rest of you, and learning a lot from everyone.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

commerce manager

amyirish — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 04:53:52 GMT

Microsoft is offerring a service and frontpage add in called Commerce Manager. It includes the SSL cert, shopping cart functions, a wizard to configure credit card processing and such.
I'm currently using OSCommerce and I find it so cumbersome. I know I could hire someone to do it for me, but I need to update about every 2 or 3 months. Its proving to be too difficult and time consuming for me to use.
Have any of you looked at this Microsoft product? I'm curious if you all think its worth the expense.
Keep in mind that I am not a programmer or a developer and am not likely to take classes in writing code.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 6 replies

Big Sale...50% on everything!!!

eahendrix — Sat, 05 Nov 2005 20:28:37 GMT

Big Sale...Nov 7th- 21st

50% on everything!!!

www.eahendrix.com

Everything got to go!!!

I need some space!!!

Have fun shopping!!!!

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

Marketing Vision

lobocita — Sat, 30 Jul 2005 14:27:10 GMT

I would eventually like to market your products/stores to the greater tribe community. More to come on this idea, and it is slowly forging.

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 16 replies

What drives traffic to your site?

lobocita — Mon, 01 Aug 2005 11:53:03 GMT

As an executive web producer, this is the absolute FIRST question I ask a client who wants to produce a website... and for all of you here, this is the question you need to ask about your store.

Are most of your site visits word-of-mouth? The general marketing rule of thumb is to expect .2% of your marketing to result in an inquiry [not necessarily a sale], so that is a lot of talking!

What are the things you have done to drive traffic to your site? What are the percentages and what are the numbers?

word-of-mouth
email signature
url on business card
url on hang tag
url on stickers
url on bumper stickers
banner ads
webring
thank you email
print postcards
print newsletter
business card on fabric/craft store bulletin board
business card at local grocery/other store
ad on someone else's print newsletter
url on packing materials
url on shipping information
url on receipt
weekly outbound email newsletter
monthly outbound email newsletter
quarterly outbound email newsletter
banner ads on someone else's newsletter

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 9 replies

Free business mentoring for LA-area women-owned small businesses

lobocita — Thu, 08 Sep 2005 05:03:19 GMT

------------------
Sorry for the late notice on this, chicas, but I went today, and I whole-heartedly recommend you call to get in. There is still room to sign up:
-----------------------------

Through a combination of training, workshops, tailored consulting, development, business insight and support services up to 60 women will have the opportunity of adding an online component to their business and vie for a final $10,000 grand scholarship to support the development of an eCommerce web site.

Program participation is at no cost for women small business owners and acceptance is limited. A $50 fee is required upon enrollment and will be fully refunded to all participants attending at least 75% of the training units. Enrollment is limited to 60 women business owners, registrations close on September 6th, 2005 or upon reaching attendance limit.

Only 60 of the top applicants will be selected to enter the four-phase program and finalists will receive digital scholarships at the Gala Award Ceremony in 2006. The 2004/2005 SheBusiness program attracted more than 200 applicants.

Registration
The first SheBusiness session is Wednesday, September 7, 2005 at the Millennium Biltmore, 506 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90071. Pre-registration is required. To apply, visit http://www.sbtechnologyinstitute.org/shebusiness

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies

So many unique and stylish shirts!!!

eahendrix — Wed, 17 Aug 2005 12:56:59 GMT

Check out the shirts on my website!
All shirts are designed and handmade by E.A.Hendrix.

www.eahendrix.com

Have fun and tell everybody you knw :-))

xoxo
Erika

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 1 reply

Getting Started

lobocita — Sat, 30 Jul 2005 14:04:01 GMT

This tribe is by invitation only. It is a spin-off of Crafty Vixens tribe, as a place to have deeper discussions about selling your crafts online, through etsy, ebay, or other.

This tribe is a work-in-progress, and we are the charter members, here to forge a place that works for all members/contributors.

My general concerns are respect, fairness, confidentiality and mostly in having peer-to-peer advice.

So, let's get this tribe started!

Welcome, let us all support each other.

Sincerely,

lobo v.43

Jo Ann Villalobos
moderator, Crafty Vixens tribe

posted in Crafty Vixens Store - 0 replies