I opened up my Etsy shop UpcycleFever last March and to celebrate, it's CONTEST time! My shop has definitely grown and I've learned SO many things this past year. I'm having so much fun creating things and figuring out ways to upcycle items into awesome wearables.
So, here's what you have to do! Very simple really! Comment below with EITHER your favorite upcycling DIY project idea (link or quick explanation) OR the best advice you would give to a new Etsy shop owner!
The winner will receive a pair of studs and a bottle cap key chain (of their choice), and I will make new blog posts with all the coolest replies!
Welcome! Welcome to Lena Chinners from the unique shop All That is Counted. The fellow Floridian stopped by for a chat, and peek at her items. Don't forget to show her love with some comments!
When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?
I have been doing counted cross stitch for over 40 years and have given the stitched items to family and friends for years so my daughter suggested that I try and sell some on Etsy... she has a shop also called Luckiiarts.
Where does your inspiration come from?
I only stitch what I would enjoy having in my own home. What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created? I did a small town street for myself . It is approx. 60" long and only 12" high. It has small houses, shops, a doctors office, trees, fountain and park, paved sidewalk and a small road running the entire length. I also made the frame in a woodworking class I was taking out of oak floor boards. It hangs above the large opening between my dining room and Florida room.
Besides creating things, what do you do?
I am fortunate in that I am retired. I was a bookkeeper in a High School for many years.
What is the most important advice anyone has given you?
Only make things you would use yourself or would be proud to give as gifts.
What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?
Be patient, go to other shops, see what is out there, follow people who's items you like, and appreciate. You also need to promote yourself to a certain degree, you need to let people see your items and not just wait for them to find you. Additionally, it is really important to tag your items with the right descriptions....and most important have fun!
The 2nd shop of the month is run by the dynamic duo John & Rebecca. Thanks to the owners of the shop Seventy1Percent, for sharing their two cents. Be sure to check out their Twitter, Facebook, and website!
When did
you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items? I lost my job. Rebecca
told me to "Seas the Day" and go for it. I had always had a dream to
create my own tees. She told me to use this negative and turn it into a
positive.
Where
does your inspiration come from? The initial inspiration was a love for the
ocean and its beauty. We are also inspired by other water related activities,
sea life, and our customers.
What’s
the most memorable custom item you’ve created? A super cool tee customized
for a rock band.
Besides
creating things, what do you do? We are a husband and wife team who love to
surf, bike, do yoga, and enjoy life.
What is
the most important advice anyone has given you? My mom said not to be scared.
She said it was F.E.A.R. "False Evidence Appearing Real."
What is
the most important advice you'd like to give to other Etsy sellers? Go for it
with your full heart! Create and be proud of what you do. If you fall, get back
up and keep moving.
Virtual round of applause for our first Etsy shop feature for the month of December. Fellow Team FEST member and Floridian, Cyndie from Cyndie Smith Designs stops by for a chat. You can also find her on Facebook and on Blogger.
When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?
I've been creative all my life and dabbled in a few mediums, like pottery and painting. But when I took my first metalsmith lesson, I was hooked and knew I'd found my place!
Where does your inspiration come from?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature but a couple of series grew from emotional baggage. That was actually some of my best work, so I guess there's some truth to the old saying about tortured artists!
What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created?
My life cuff, which is also my avatar. It was created in honor of a friend who died too young from breast cancer. The cuff told a story of loss and love. I made so many custom for other folks, telling their stories, that I had to stop because it was emotionally draining.
Besides creating things, what do you do?
I love boating, growing Orchids and bicycling.
What is the most important advice anyone has given you?
Give thanks for all you have.
What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?
Don't give up! Slow times can be discouraging so use that time to improve your shop. That way you'll be ready for the next up cycle of sales!
The next shop feature for the month of October hails from Lehigh Acres, Florida. Let's give Natalee Wright from Black Willow Soaps a virtual round of applause for taking the time to share her story. As always, check for links below and shower us with comments!
When did
you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?
My
mother and her friend, Kurt, had been talking about selling handcrafted items
at craft shows in our area. They asked me to join them and bring my soaps and
candles. So, I made a bunch of soaps to go to the craft fair. Unfortunately, it
never panned out and I was left with all of these soaps. Christmas had just
passed, so I couldn’t really gift the items. I had sold on Etsy before with
just original artwork and really couldn’t get it to work out. But, I figured
why not try it again with my new products. So far, it has been a wonderful
journey.
Where
does your inspiration come from?
I gain
inspiration from everything. Most of the time, you can tell what I have been
looking at with my new products! The beach themed tealight candle holder came from a
trip to the beach with my husband. The rose candle holder came from the memory
of the beautiful roses that my mother had in our yard when we lived in Indiana.
My friends and family are a big inspiration and usually the last word on
whether or not one of my products will be listed. Chances are if they like it,
someone else will enjoy it as well.
What’s
the most memorable custom item you’ve created?
My Aunt
Amy told me that she couldn't use certain soaps because they caused her to get
a rash. I created the Lavender Oatmeal Shea Butter Soap just for her. It didn't
cause her to get a rash and she loved it.
Besides
creating things, what do you do?
During
normal business hours, I am a case manager for senior citizens. I help provide
services to senior citizens that allow them to stay in their home instead of
going to a nursing home. If I am not at work, I am usually working on my shop.
My hobbies kind of surround my shop. I like to paint, create, and grow herbs to
put in my soaps. I spend time with my family whenever I can. Most of my family
outings even seem to encompass my shop, like the beach, thrift stores, and the
flea market. In a sense, I am always working…at least in my mind. My brain
never stops thinking about what I could be creating or doing for my shop.
What is
the most important advice anyone has given you?
It will
all work out. In fact, my husband says it repeatedly.
What is
the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?
Dive in!
You never know what will happen until you try. I firmly believe that dreams
never die, they just change a little over the years. So, I would say to anyone
who wants to create their own business or exclusively work in the products that
I work in, that they should go for it and see what is waiting at the other end.
Life’s journey begins with a single step, right?
Show Natalee some virtual love! Her back story is truly inspiring, don't forget to stay positive out there!
Event: Downtown Open Market
Date: Monthly, Every 3rd Sunday from 10am-4pm
Location: 308 S. Federal Hwy Boca Raton, Florida 33432
More Info Here
Positives
- FREE! - free to park, and no admission charge
- Variety
- Most craft shows have tons of jewelry vendors, and this event was no
exception. However each vendor had different types and price ranges than
the other. Everything from computer chip resin charms to high class
beaded necklaces. I also spotted some items that I don't often see at
shows such as quilts, pet items, custom painted vans, and detailed paintings.
- Great
location - The craft booths are in a lovely plaza full of local shops
and restaurants, which is a benefit for the customers and vendors! Its
also great that it's on a paved road and not in grass. It's also very
easy to find, right on the corner of a main street.
Negatives
- Outdoors - Of course, Florida weather is unpredictable and you never
know when it will death rain, drizzle softly, or glare down heat like
hell on Earth.
- Low turnout? - When I scoped this show out, it
was an overcast day but there was no rain. I'm not sure if this factored
into how little people were there. I also showed at closer towards the
end at 3pm, so I can't speak for the early afternoon
- No extra
programming - There didn't seem to be any extra activities or
programming at this event. For example, food trucks, a local singer,
health booths, and so on. I love to mosey through booth and check stuff
out, but it was a little to quiet and dull for me. Live music or
something would have been nice!
Vendor Tips
- Not sure if electricity was provided, but I doubt it
- Bring a tent! Although it didn't seem to be required, the vendors under a tent looked more presentable and professional.
- Bring snacks! The restaurants look like they had tasty food, but they also looked a little pricey!
- Turnout
could be hit or miss. I spoke to some vendors and found that several
did great while others did poorly. Just depends on the batch of folks
that show up that day. Again, there may have been less people due to a
chance of rain, but overall vendors said this event is hit or miss.
Bottom Line -
A great event to check out local crafters and their wares. Not entirely
family friendly if you are looking for a day full of activities, but
awesome if you wanted to sit down for Sunday lunch afterwards!
Upcoming Shows & Craft Bazaar in the Tri County Areas!! Giving you all the info that I could find!
Pompano City Wide Market
Sep 15 from 9am-3pm
1801 Northeast 6th Street, Pompano Beach
City-Wide Market is unlike any other flea market in South Florida! It's a huge MONTHLY garage sale, flea market, vintage and local product fair rolled into one fantastic INDOOR event!
More info here!
Charity Quarter Auction
Sep 18 at 6:00pm
Knights of Columbus Council 2075, West Palm Beach, FL
All you have to do is bring a roll (or two!) of quarters and get ready to have an awesome night! We'll teach you how to play and you'll learn VERY quickly if this is your first time. WARNING: The Quarter Auction is addicting!!
More info here!
Downtown Open Market
Sep 23 from 10am-4pm
308 S. Federal Hwy Boca Raton, Florida 33432
Boca's Downton Open Market is held at the Monument Piazza at Royal Palm Place. Royal Palm Place itself has become a mecca for amazing food, fabulous shopping at a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and jewelers. Set amidst flowering gardens, Mediterranean fountains and tranquil piazzas, you can indulge yourself or find that perfect gift for a special someone on your list.
More info here!
Homestead Pavilion 2 Day Arts & Craft Fair
Sep 22-23 10am-5pm
Ft Lauderdale Chocolate Blues & Business Networking Festival
Sep 27 from 2pm-7pm
4900 Powerline Rd, Fr Lauderdale, FL 33309
More info here
Hey folks! I've been slow with posting, but for good
reason! I'm vending in TWO craft shows this month. Obviously, that
takes preparation. Details for both below, hope to see you there!
**City Wide Market - Sunday June 24
City-Wide
Market is unlike any other flea market in South Florida! It's a huge
MONTHLY garage sale, flea market, vintage and local product fair rolled
into one fantastic INDOOR event!
FREE Admission / FREE Parking!
Location: 1801 Northeast 6th Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060
Night Owl at the Flagler Village - Saturday June 30
Independent Local Vendors. Music. Food. Art. Drinks. Gypsies. Unicorns. FREE Admission. FREE Craft Beers, Wine and Cocktails ALL NIGHT! Food trucks will line the surrounding streets, so come hungry!
All proceeds from the Night Owl Market event will go directly to funding Flagler Village -- contributing to building a community garden and monument sign to add identity to and improve the thriving neighborhood.
I'm no expert, and I've only had a minor in Marketing. But, I'll tell you what, I am a g-ddamn good reader! There are two major themes that reappear in any and all articles on selling products online. Whether you use a site like Etsy or Ebay, or sell products online on your own site; these two themes will apply to you. Actually, I think these also apply to just plain blogging as well.
Number One - Photography Counts!!
A good clear picture gives your consumers a chance to see what your product is made of. Remember, they can't touch and feel your products, and rely solely on your depiction to make their assumptions.
Quick tips for good pics!
- Keep it simple: Crazy patterns and busy backgrounds distract and take away from your product
- Consider Models: If applicable, use people or models to exhibit items like jewelry and clothing. This way, a consumer can picture the item on themselves, especially if they see it looks good on someone else. Common sense really, you ever go to Target and see pictures of plain clothes?
- Props Count: For certain items, props can make all the difference. But don't get carried away. For example, let's say you make lamps. A couple of snapshots of your lamp on a classy nightshade might make someone think, hmmm that might just look good in my own house.
- Lighting is everything; Brighten your photos! Find any measly computer program that adjusts photos and you'll be set. Heck, I just use auto fix on my Windows Picture Manager and that usually does the trick!
Number Two - Search Engine Optimization
SEO huh? When someone is online searching the entire world of the internet, how do you expect them to find little old you? Using SEO tips can help your page and products get found online, if you use them right.
Quick tips to get clicks! (so maybe I like to rhyme, whatever)
- Analytics are your friend: I beg you, use Google Analytics (Shop stats on Etsy) to find out how people get to your pages and what they used to get there.
- Search Engines are also your friend: If you run a private site, search engines often have features where you can add your URL to their list. Nothing to lose there, and its simple.
- Tag away: On hosted sites like, Ebay or Etsy tags can make all the difference. Use analytics to check periodically if your tags are actually working! Catering tags to current trends and holidays can also get you a few more views.
- Titles? KISS (ie Keep It Simple Stupid): Especially on sites like Etsy, you don't want to ruin a good title. Include descriptive concise words that you can imagine buyers actually typing into their search bar. For example, if I made a fish painting I'd title it "Large Animal Painting - 10 feet by 10 feet Oil painting on canvas etc etc" instead of "Tuna at Sunset - An original handdrafted oil piece". Catch my drift?
Anyhoo, did you really read through all of that? Haha, just wondering. Here are some reference sites for good reading!
I'll post more on online selling tips, we have much to learn grasshoppers. ;)
I wanted to sure some fabulous tips from Gena Divine, over at BakeAllTheThings on Etsy.com. A lot of sellers wonder; Do one day sales work? How could I promote it? Is it even worth it? Well, Gena Divine can tell you that they DO work! Here is what she had to say.
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I held a 28% off sale for 24 hours to celebrate my 28th birthday.
Results:
26 sales from 19 customers
17/19 new customers and only 5/19 were personal friends or family
What worked:
1 [by far the most successful]. Facebook - I have about 300 followers on Facebook and also about 600 personal friends/family members. I promoted the sale about 6 times in 24 hours on my Page and 3 times on my personal page.
2. Twitter - I have about 90 Twitter followers. I promoted the sale about 4 times in 24 hours. 5 followers re-tweeted sale info at least once.
3. Forum/Team postings - yes, I fully admit to commenting on some forum/team posts with thinly-veiled promotions. However, my comments were always relevant to the topics at hand.
What didn't work:
1. Shop announcement - this may have been because I didn't even THINK to list the sale in my shop announcement until the halfway mark.
2. Team promotion threads - none of my sales came as a result of posting in a promo thread for teams, despite doing this 3 times over 24 hours in about 30 different teams.
Overall impressions:
1. Thrilled that so many new customers gave my shop a chance!
2. Kinda glad that the % of customers I already knew in person was small
3. Good to know that Facebook is the best tool for my marketing
4. Glad to know I can stop posting in so many promotional team threads
5. Holy cow do I have a lot of baking to do in the next week!
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Show Gena some love and thanks for the awesome insight by checking out her Etsy shop BakeAllTheThings and FB page here
