ok etsians I am making an oath to you that come new yr I will get back into the swing of this blogging thing. I am sorry I have dropped off the face of the planet! I am thinking of switching up my formula and was wanting some feedback from you guys!

Please tell me what you would like to see. More questions to the seller? Less questions? No questions? Items with a theme? I'm thinking of featuring more related items with no questions for the seller. Please guide me followers =)

See ya next yr!

Bust

Well black Friday was a bust for ms sadly. I'm not sure how to get back in the groove ):


- Posted using black magic and positive thinking.

Black Friday

Sp thus is my first Etsy Black Friday/Cyber Monday and I'm wondering how to go about it? Do I offer a free gift, % off, or free gift wrap/free shipping. I wanna be competitive so I am adding some more stuff. Thank good ness!!! Any advice would be appreciated :)


- Posted using black magic and positive thinking.

On the go!

Well I've moved onto mobile blogging. So expect to be seeing me a lot more in your readers :) which is a good thing right....RIGHT?

- Posted using black magic and positive thinking.

DIY Shrink Plastic Necklace Kit

Included in the kit:
*4 Pre-Cut Shrink Plastic Circles
*4 Silver Clasp Sets
*4 Pieces of Hemp Rope (cut to your desired length)
*3 Colored Pencils (any colored pencil will work)
*Detailed Instructions.

From: sofacityaccessories

Price: 9.00

1. Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I chose Etsy because I have been a shopper on the site for several years. I love the idea of spending my money with individuals who put their time and love into creating their items. It's so much more personal than buying from a major retailer. I love opening a package to find a handwritten note from the seller. You don't get that anywhere else.
I also have several shops that I now work with in the U.S. and Canada, where I do consignment and wholesale orders. I guess it's the small town in me that gets me so happy thinking about people purchasing my items in places I've never been.

2. What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

The thing I purchase the most on Etsy are supplies and services that I need for my shop, such as my banner(iluvdesign.etsy.com). I would never purchase graphic design services for my shop anywhere else. There's no need. There are such great artists right here.


3. What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

I'd have to say that 5erg is high on my list. Silja, the artist, is extremely talented. Her work is very quirky and like nothing else I've ever seen. I love her work so much that I use it for my jewelry line. She has been wonderful to work with and is such a genuine, nice person. I never thought, joining Etsy, that I would soon have a business relationship with someone I've never met in Estonia. This is part of what makes Etsy so interesting. It unites people from all over the world.

4. Any advice for new sellers?

The best advice I can give is to stay true to yourself. Of course we'd all like to be a huge Etsy success story. But if you aren't creating items that you love to make, it really defeats the purpose. If I became a success by making things that I'm not passionate about, it would be no different than earning a living in any other industry. It's just another job.

5. And a favorite quote?

I don't like "inspirational" quotes. One of my favorites is a George quote from Seinfeld, which has no relevance to anything, but it makes me laugh.
"He's beboppin' and scattin', and I'm losin' it!"

The Kelly Pot Holder from Prettyinpurple.etsy.com

Ive used Joel Dewberry's light yellow demask and Amy Butler's polka dots. To protect your hands from the hot oven, roasting dishes etc, this beautiful fabric is covering Insul-Bright.

It measures approx 20.5cm square (8 inches). You can also use it as a trivit to protect your benchtops and dining tables from hot dishes.

From: Prettyinpurple

Price: 5.00

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?
I chose Etsy because I love their "Buy Homemade" theory. Don't get me wrong, I still buy from the corporate conglomerate shops, just not as much as I used to. If we all support each other then we would have less need to "go to the shops".
I also sell at various craft markets around Perth (Western Australia). Im a regular at the Mundaring Markets which is the second Sunday in the month. This is meant to be purely craft and fresh produce, however, ive seen some cheap imported stuff creeping in (not happy about that)

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)
I LOVE to buy my fabrics on Etsy. For a start its cheaper than what I can get it in my local shops, it gets delivered straight to my front door and i don't have to drag the kids to yet another fabric shop (cause they really like that - not).
Lately I've been searching Etsy for some really cool Christmas presents - I like to be organised and hate leaving things to the last minute.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?
My favourite Etsy fabric Seller would have to be Fabricshoppe. The fabric is beautiful and just what I want. Jody's service is fantastic and the postage is fast, which is really important to me as things always take longer to get to me "Down Under".
My favourite Perth Sellers are: Neddynibbles for really cute vintage inspired aprons, Delightsociety for devine soaps, Staceytara for unique jewelry and Trio for groovy Blyth clothes.

4- Any advice for new sellers?
Always answer convo's. List something at least every second day to keep your shop current and at the top of the list, even if it means re-listing something. Shop around and "heart" other shops because we all check to see who "hearts" us. This creats more traffic to your shop.

5-And a favorite quote?
"If its not your's don't touch it". It's not a famous one, just one that I say to the kids everyday!!!

Luck of the Irish-Four Leaf Clover Collage Pendant from naturellechic.etsy.com

This pendant measures approximately 7/8" square, 3/8" thick, (23 mm square, 5 mm thick), and comes with a silver plated bail.

Many of my glass shapes have been made by hand and are not necessarily uniform.

Due to the hand-made nature of my jewelry each piece is created individually and slight variations from the photo may occur.

Although my pendants are water resistant they are not waterproof.

From: naturellechic

Price: 16.00

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else? I sell through home parties, local craft shows and through Etsy. Many of my sales have been through wearing my pendants- sold right off my neck! As for the internet, Etsy has the widest handcraft buying audience and is the best showcase for craft items.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.) I love seeking out the unique- a personalized item or something special for one of my 10 grandchildren. I just bought a hand crocheted hat for my Yo Gabba Gabba fan grandson-and he loves it.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$? I love the crisp look of KathyPanton on Etsy. Most of her items are under $20.

4- Any advice for new sellers? Don't give up! Learn, Learn, Learn. I opened a store last year and had a total of no sales! but I read the forums and heeded the advise that friendly Etsians were giving. I improved my product-improved my photography-and started promoting under my new shop. I'm off to a good year with my on-line and direct sales.

5-And a favorite quote? The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.
e e cummings

Vintage puzzle piece bracelet from dustydrawers.etsy.com

This really cool bracelet started with a gold cab setting bracelet on which I added really cool vintage puzzle pieces with postal stamp images. Very colorful. The pieces are sealed for extra durability. Measures 6.5".

From: dustydrawers

Price: 16.00

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else? Etsy was recommended to me by a friend and I really like the look of the site as well as the large number of sellers. I only sell on Etsy - I couldn't keep up with another site!

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)I love all the vintage jewelry supplies available on Etsy - they are well priced and the variety is amazing. I would never find these items on my own!

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$? I enjoy the mineral makeup from PUREnaturalMinerals. You can buy small trial size containers that cost around $5 which will last a long time. I had been using mineral makeup manufactured by a big company, but feel much better to be supporting another Etsian and getting a great quality product.

4- Any advice for new sellers? Have patience and enjoy what you are doing. Take really good pictures, they are almost as important as the product itself.

5-And a favorite quote?
"Don't believe everything you think" - a bumper sticker stuck to the back of a beat up old van. I loved it because I am a chronic over-thinker!

Vintage Extra Large Red and White Stripe Tie Neck Secretary Blouse from pineapplemint.etsy.com

This vintage 1980s secretary blouse is very light weight and would make a really good layering piece. Fiber content is not listed but it is definitely synthetic. Ties at the neck. Lovely bright red color, perfect condition. Marked size 16. Slightly gathered at shoulders.

Size estimate: XL

Bust: 42"

Shoulder to shoulder: 22" (from sleeve opening to sleeve opening)

Waist: 43"

Length: 25"

Condition: excellent

Price: 16.00

From: pineapplemint

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?
I chose to sell on Etsy because I like the site's overall message and interface. I like that it is pleasant to look at but also simple in its layout and aesthetics. Also, I have friends who sell on Etsy who recommended it. I sell the occasional item on Ebay, but not really any vintage. If I happen to come across something that is newer but a good find, I will turn to Ebay. I must admit, though, that in general I find the Ebay experience unpleasant and have mostly moved away from using it.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)
I have mostly used Etsy to buy vintage clothes or shoes. Especially boots! Sometimes I really want a particular style and I can usually find whatever I want on Etsy. I am constantly looking at fancy bags, too, but I haven't yet bought one!

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?
I really love this ring from shiningstones.
It is unique while still being simple and the colors are so pretty. Now I am wondering why I haven't bought this...

4- Any advice for new sellers?
It is really important to take the best photos you possibly can, and to be accurate in listings. The buyer cannot see your item, so be their eyes. Taking good photos doesn't mean you have to invest in expensive equipment. Just make sure you're using good light and a background that does justice to what you are trying to sell.

5-And a favorite quote?

I don't really have a good quote, but I do like to say "McRib is back!" (when applicable)

DANG!

Woke up to 2 sales this morning!! The Etsy gods are smiling on me and hopefully this gives me the shove I need to stock my store for the holidays!! Stay tuned for special blog only deals and a giveaway perhaps??

Vintage ELECTRIC BLUE Suede 80's Belt

It is electric, royal, or cobalt blue, pick your favorite. It is genuine suede leather and kinda western style. Size Small and does not stretch. Good condition, shows signs of wear but has a lot of life left in it. Look at pics, what you see is what you get!

Price: 10.00

From: twistedviridiana

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I decided to sell on Etsy because it is perfect for independent designers/artists since it's strictly handmade, vintage, and supplies. I love the fact that the listings last 4 months, the fees are VERY low, you get your own FREE store (address), and that Etsy gives seller awesome opportunities to be "discovered" by being featured. I used to sell my items at an indie boutique, but they closed down. So, I only sell on Etsy right now, but I would love to sell at boutiques again.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

I love buying supplies on Etsy! I find the most unique, beautiful, and affordable jewelry pieces here that my nearby craft store can't offer.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

Right now, one of my favorite items are these cute little pink and gold earrings that have pacifier and antique baby stroller charms. They are very me right now, because I'm currently pregnant with a baby girl...3 more weeks...oy! I really wanted to use them in my baby shower but, the baby is taking everything! :)

4- Any advice for new sellers?

My number one advice to new sellers is to look at their pictures and ask themselves if it would convince them to buy the item according to the pictures, not knowing what it really looks like in person. I really think that is the key to selling your items, to have great pictures that show the item as accurate as possible. I can't stand blurry or far away pictures.... Also, be very, very, very, very PATIENT. I'm still being patient.

5-And a favorite quote?

"To make a long story short, don't tell it."

gypsy dream from peppertree.etsy.com

a double strand necklace. the shorter chain has an awesome vintage brooch as the center piece. it's a picture of an art nouveau styled woman. she's very pretty and i believe she's a beautiful dancer. the longer strand has a lovely delicate center piece. a few strands of chain with some bells attached to the bottom. perfect for the gypsy woman.
the shorter part of the necklace measure 20.7 inches. the longer strand hangs 26 inches long. this piece is cool and one of a kind.

Price: 20.00

From: peppertree

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

i choose to sell on etsy because its a little community. even if i meet people at a party or on the street and i find out they sell on etsy too its like an instant bond. haha. i also think etsy is fair to the sellers. they don't overcharge you like some sites do. i don't sell on any other sites, but i do sell things to my friends and friends of friends. i would like to one day have enough items to take to a local craft fair.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

i'm starting to become addicted to buying handmade/vegan makeup on etsy. its really has been making my skin look ten times better! i really like theallnaturalface and lighthouseminerals. i also like to buy interesting jewelry. things i would have never thought of doing.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

i really love the knitted bows from YesJess. she can make them in any color you want and they're only 7 dollars!

4- Any advice for new sellers?

invest in a fairly decent camera, learn how to use it(especially the macro setting). renew items as often as you can afford, and be patient!

5-And a favorite quote?
"i know myself..but that is all"-f scott fitzgerald, this side of paradise

Typewriter Key Initial Ring from nataliesnest.etsy.com

These are replicas of typewriter keys, turned into rings. The ring is silver plated and adjustable (fits most sizes). The top of the ring has a layer of resin to protect the surface and give it a more realistic look.
{HAHA I bought the "R"}
Choose your letter and write it in notes to seller.

Price: 4.75

From: nataliesnest

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?
I chose to sell on Etsy because:
1)it is pretty much the cheapest way to have an online business
2)it is very organized and easy to use (I love to be organized!)
3)the environment- I have had so many great experiences with fellow Etsy sellers and buyers. People on Etsy truly love to be there!

The only other place I sell my things are at local craft shows/markets.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)
I have bought supplies and I have found some great unique hand made gifts for friends. But my favorite things to buy (and just browse for hours) are the vintage items. I am a sucker for vintage stuff-especially from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?
That is REALLY hard to scale it down!! But I have to say I have been impressed by a product I bought for my husband back on Father's Day. It was a shaving soap cube and face lotion set from ShopRedLeaf. The cube has lasted so long and it smells great!

4- Any advice for new sellers?
A few things I have learned over the last year since opening my shop have been:
1)come up with a logo and have consistent themes within your shop and product packaging-your products will stand out and you will look put together
2)list and re-list items frequently (several times a week if not daily)-this is the best way people will see your stuff-otherwise you keep getting pushed back on all the search lists
3)Take good pictures of your items! I am convinced that when I can't sell an item it is directly related to the quality of the pictures and how it is presented in my ad
4)Create stuff you love-don't just try to make things you think people will like. If you love it, there will surely be someone else out there that does too! It took me a few months to find my niche and I changed my direction from when I first got on Etsy and I am much happier now.

5-And a favorite quote?
"Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans."-John Lennon

Appalachian Trail Barrette from sweettarragon.etsy.com

Sage green freshwater pearls, pietersite nuggets, chocolate brown Swarovski pearls, and khaki green Swarovski crystals are woven together with silver wire into a landscape of rocky terrain. The barrette measures about three inches in length, and has a hefty spring mechanism to hold even the unruliest hair.

Price: 8.50

From: sweettarragon

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?
Etsy was the fastest way for me to get my items online when I started selling. I also have accounts at Artfire, 1000 Markets, and Silkfair, but I don't list there often. My original intention was to create my own site (I'm also a web designer/developer), but other projects always took precedence. As my partner and I networked with other crafters, we found that there's a huge desire for user-friendly e-commerce on self-hosted sites, and so we've spent the last 18 months developing a product that's scheduled to launch in January. Once that's up and running, I intend to pull all my other online accounts, but I'll always maintain a presence on Etsy.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)
Little gifts for myself, like lip balms and soaps from my friend Kate's store, Om Shanti Handcrafts , and my gorgeous business card holder from WoodNYou.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?
Om Shanti's Tangerine Vanilla Lip Balm I keep one on my desk and carry one with me everywhere!

4- Any advice for new sellers?
Promote, promote, promote! Etsy is a huge market, and people don't always find you on their own. Tell everyone you know, get out there and advertise (word of mouth or otherwise), and keep at it.

5-And a favorite quote?
"Tinkerbell says, and I find I agree, you have to break rules if you want to break free. Do as you like - we're determined to be wicked girls saving ourselves."
-Seanan McGuire, "Wicked Girls"

tweed jacket from kinfauns.etsy.com

It is excellently handcrafted and made in the USA.
The buttons are fabric covered in the tweed on inside and around the outside it is covered with fabric used in the jacket's lining.
There are 2 cute pockets on the front that measure 4" high and 4 3/4" wide.
The back has a little belt detail with 2 buttons at either end.

Measurements:
Bust: 36"
Waist:37"
Length from CB neck:20"

Fabric:
Outer (tweed): 100% wool
Inside lining: Rayon
There are 2 labels on the inside (see picture)

Condition: Good especially for it's age. The only issue I noticed was a small moth hole at the bottom of left sleeve.
Jacket has not been washed.

Price: 14.00

From: Kinfauns

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I liked how etsy was simple and visually appealing and how the creators seem to be much more in support of the artisans and sellers themselves and for what each of them stand for, rather than overcharging to make more money for themselves.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

-Vintage sewing patterns!

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

3 fabric gnome buttons from atomicrose for $4.00!

4- Any advice for new sellers?

Be creative with your listings, while at the same time being very detailed about the item you are selling! Vintage items especially have flaws (I call them characteristics), that definitely need to be brought to the potential buyers attention before purchasing, no matter how small!

5-And a favorite quote?

"All human beings are also dream beings. Dreaming ties all mankind together". - Jack Kerouac

VINTAGE Wooden Trinket/ Keepsake/ Jewelry Box from Vintagecaravan.etsy.com

This is a Delicate Vintage little wooden Trinket Jewelry or Keepsake Box.

Measures 2" tall 2.5" across.

Has a Beautiful Blonde finish with a detailed Floral Decal on top. The inside is lined with a Teal felt like finish that matches the ribbons in the floral design.

Price: 3.00

From: Vintagecaravan

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I came to Etsy because of its amazing talent. A new Artesian Market Place was just what I needed! I’ve been an artist for years selling locally, but had never quite found the right outlet online… until now. I have 3 stores here on Etsy because of the wide range of interests and mediums I like to play around with.
I do sell on other sites, and will be on my own soon. Etsy however will always be my foundation.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

I like to by gifts for myself. Generally I’m always making gifts for other people, so when I see something unique, or something I haven’t tried or can’t make… I spoil myself with a Vintage or handmade treasure.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

Well there are several, but one is the Ammo- Ammonite Fossil in Cherry Wood by Hendywood.

4- Any advice for new sellers?

Be honest, and kind in your dealings.
Don’t give up if you have a slow start. Sometimes it takes a minute to find your nitch but when you do… you’ll be making a living, living.

5-And a favorite quote?

“Be the light you wish to see in the world.”
~Gandhi

Checkbook Cover - Gothic Rose from nancygamon.etsy.com

Add a colorful splash to your pocketbook, and make check writing fun! This checkbook cover features clear vinyl flaps for holding your check stack and register - so you can easily see your balance at a glance.

Made from Amy Butler designer fabric featuring lush blossoms in rich hues.

All products are guaranteed for 1 year. Love your purchase or return it for a full refund (including shipping).

Price: 10.00

From: nancygamon

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I'm happy to have my creations available in several online venues and in person boutiques. My first experience selling handmade items was on Etsy. It's such a lively, friendly community. I've learned a lot over the past three years there and gradually expanded my business as a result. There was an article in "ReadyMade" magazine about Etsy that initially sparked my interest. Encouragement from friends led me to take the plunge.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

It's fun to support other artists and craftspeople. While I hand make many of the gifts I give, I admittedly don't know how to do everything. I enjoy having a ready resource of unique options in other media, and have purchased items like handmade books, jewelry, screen printed apparel, whistles, goblets and horns.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

Simple, beautiful, affordable.

4- Any advice for new sellers?

Patience. It takes time to learn the skills necessary to be a dynamic small business owner, savvy independent marketer, efficient accountant, innovative photographer, and all the other roles that get added on to just being your own creative self. Give yourself the time and freedom to stretch and grow. Overnight success isn't mandatory. It's okay to relax and enjoy the process.

5-And a favorite quote?

"There is only one success - to spend your life in your own way." - Christopher Morley

Trio Earrings from craftedit.etsy.com

These earrings feature a cute and colorful trio of carnelians (orange), rainbow moonstones (clear and iridescent), and amazonites (light teal). These brass-colored metal earrings have a vintage-looking patina and hang 3/4 of an inch below the earwires.

Price: 8.00

From: craftedit

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?
I chose to sell on Etsy because I love to craft, and I have made far more handcrafted items than I can use or give to friends. I also wanted to be part of the amazing Etsy community.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)
I like to buy jewelry-making supplies and random works of art.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?
This beautiful poster by crscheffe.

4- Any advice for new sellers?
Take nice photos of your items—items that are well-photographed, in focus, and well-lit sure catch my attention. Provide a variety of products at various price points in your shop. Don’t give up if you haven’t made sales because someone somewhere loves/will love your products!

5-And a favorite quote?
I couldn’t decide between these two:
“Experience is not what happens to you; it is what you do with what happens to you.”
-Aldous Huxley

“All great deeds and all great thoughts have a ridiculous beginning. Great works are often born on a street corner or in a restaurant's revolving door.”
-Albert Camus

Bowling Is Groovy vintage metal pinback button from fifthquadrant.etsy.com

Cool metal pin measures 1 3/8” diameter. In excellent condition. This came from a “house frozen in time” estate sale so I’m certain it’s authentic 1960s to 1970s. Proof that hippies bowl.

Price: 5.00

From: fifthquadrant

1-Why did you choose to sell on Etsy/ and do you sell anywhere else?

I currently do not sell anywhere else. I first heard about etsy on Martha Stewart's television show and opened an account so I could by some artwork. When I found out you can also sell vintage on etsy, that seemed like a good fit since I am quite a collector of (too) many things. I also intended to sell some of my original artwork on etsy, but I haven't gotten very much of that listed.

2- What is your fave thing to buy on Etsy (whether it be supplies or gifts etc.)

My favorite thing to buy is small format size original artwork, especially paintings.

3-What is your current fave product/SELLER(not in your store) under 20$?

I have a painting I love by timssally that was one of the first things I bought on etsy and I'm always checking out her shop to see what new artwork she's listed. I currently have my eye on this.

4- Any advice for new sellers?

Be patient (it took close to a year before I started seeing steady sales) and try to list (something every day to build up your inventory and hopefully keep being seen. Use the forums...there is so much great information available there. Keep learning how to take better photographs. Communicate with your customers, and don't take things personally if something goes awry.

5-And a favorite quote?

"Bowling is Groovy"