HandmadeCatalog Craft Blog

Top 5 Thanksgiving Day Crafts for Kids

2011-11-15T10:20:00.001-08:00

When I say I am a life long crafter, I'm serious. Some of my earliest craft memories are in preparation for the holidays. When you are a kid, it seems to take for ever to get through the Thanksgiving weekend and start the official kid's countdown to the big day. So you say you have some little ones that are experiencing their own angst while waiting? I've scoured the net and found my personal top 5 favorite Thanksgiving Day crafts for kids and listed them here. Their score is based on their ease, minimal amount of supplies and overall fun for both the instructors and the young crafters in training:

Number 5: Turkey Place Cards
If you are hosting a Thanksgiving Dinner, then you and your kid can make Thanksgiving Place Cards. Some card stock works best but you can use any paper or cardboard medium you have around that will fold in half and stand up. Find some pictures of turkeys, fall leaves, pumpkins and other autumn related pictures in magazines or even grocery store flyers. Cut them out, arrange and paste them on the place cards, write the guests name and you are done! Set them on the table and everyone knows exactly where to sit. My favorite example of Thanksgiving Place Card Crafts with instructions is from AmazingMoms.com

Number 4: Thanksgiving Paper Plate Turkey
This is an old favorite from kindergarten, a real classic and super easy to make. You will need some brown paint, paper plates, glue or paste and some colored construction paper. Basically you paint the plate brown, cut out colored feathers and glue to the back of the plate. Draw a cute face to finish. A great example of the Thanksgiving Paper Plate Turkey Craft is available to Allkidsnetwork.com

Number 3: The Pine Cone Turkey
Easy and fun for all, basically you glue a face on the end of a pine cone and add colorful feather to the rear. Get the pine cones from your yard or the grocery store, you might need a craft store for the feathers though. See pictures of the Pine Cone Turkey craft for kids here.

Number 2: The Hand Turkey
If you went to public school, you made one of these for sure. You trace your hand and your thumb is the turkey's head. Add color and other embellishments and you have true keepsake. Be sure to date it, you know you will keep it.

Number 1: Paper Turkey Dinner
This is a new one for me and I fell in love with it. You will need some lunch sized paper bags, paper plates, construction paper, glue, twine and pipe cleaners but it is so fun, it will be worth the investment. Get the detail from Busy Bee Kids Crafts.

And while the little ones are busy, sneak over to HandmadeCatalog.com and do some early Christmas shopping ;:

Please Leave Your Hat On

2011-10-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Hats are making a huge comeback in the USA for all types of trendy reasons. We were well on our way to a full blown Hat Trend and then the flames were fueled by the Royal Wedding and all those fabulous hats across the pond. If you watch a lot of TV you may have noticed just how this head gear is taking off in the form of fedoras on police detectives, sit-com girls with cute beanies and guys knitting Mohawk caps on the do it yourself shows. It's no wonder hats are making such a come back, they are fun to wear, can be very sexy and certainly allow for self expression. And to top it off (pun intended), they provide warmth and protection for your head and hair. Some of the more popular of the head toppers this winter are wide brim leather hats, gangster hats and Amish hats. For those that looking for something a little more whimsical or comfortable, look for knitted and crocheted hats. You can also make your own hats, there are plenty of free patterns out there to try.

How ever you get yours, it is definitively time to get your hat on!

Holiday "Bull-tique" Lake Forest, CA 10/28/2011 - 10/29/2011

2011-10-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a great Holiday Craft Boutique in Southern California this weekend? Then make sure you drop the El Toro High School Holiday “Bull-tique” for some awesome holiday craft shopping. The craft boutique is this weekend starting Friday night, Oct 28 & 29, 2011 BOOTH #8 Friday night 4PM to 9PM - and Saturday 9AM to 5PM.

It's being held at the El Toro High School at 25255 Toledo Way,Lake Forest, CA.

Be sure to visit Wineslippers Creations at this show, they will be offering their wonderful wine coasters, hand painted wine glasses, wine decanters, wine bottle lamps, handmade jewelry and feather toppers!

Tell Carol we said Hi and send us some pictures from the show!

Wineslippers Creations Fall 2011 Show Schedule

2011-10-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

WinesplippersCreations has been a member of HandmadeCatalog.com for years and offers the most wonderful wine related crafts in the virtual world.

They also share their products in the real world at several craft festivals in the southern California area. Below is their new Fall Schedule of Shows.

If you can, please drop by and say Hi to Carol and see how wonderful her crafts really are, in person!

And if you aren't in California, you can visit their website at WineslipplersCreations.com

Littlest Angel Guild’s Gift Faire Oct 20 & 21, 2011 BOOTH 14
Thursday, Oct 20 5PM to 7PM - Friday, Oct 21 9AM to 6PM
Yorba Linda Community Center
4501 Casa Loma Avenue
Yorba Linda, Ca 92886
714-961-7181

El Dorado Quarter Back Holiday Boutique Oct 22, 2011
Saturday, Oct 22 9AM to 4PM GREAT SHOW!!!
El Dorado High School
1651 N. Valencia Avenue
Placentia, Ca

El Toro High School Holiday “Bull-tique”
Oct 28 & 29, 2011 BOOTH #8 Friday night 4PM to 9PM - Saturday 9AM to 5PM
El Toro High School GREAT SHOW!!!
25255 Toledo Way
Lake Forest, Ca

Irvine Holiday Faire
Nov 4 & 5, 2011 BOOTH #CT79 Friday night 5PM – 9PM - Saturday 9AM – 4PM
Irvine Fine Arts Center GREAT SHOW!!!
14321 Yale Avenue
Irvine, Ca

First America Title in Santa Ana
Nov 11, 2011 Friday 7:30AM – 2PM
1 First American Way
Santa Ana, Ca 92707

MOP Festival
Nov 12, 2011 - Saturday, 9AM – 3PM
South Shores Church
32712 Crown Valley Pkwy
Monarch Beach, Ca 92629

MOPS Holiday Boutique
Nov 16 & 17, 2011 Wednesday 6PM to 9PM - Thursday 9:30AM – 12:00NOON
Religious Education Center Solano Catholic Church
22082 Antonio Parkway
Rancho Santa Margarita, Ca 92688

Mission Viejo Community Center Boutique
Nov 19, 2011 BOOTH #11 (Sycamore Room) Saturday 8AM – 5PM
24932 Veterans GREAT SHOW!!!!!
Mission Viejo, Ca 92692 949-830-7066

Buy Crafts and Sell Crafts Online :: Handmade Catalog

2011-06-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

Home page is updated now with new Bears, Bunnies, Purses and Hand Painted Glass Plates!

Come visit us at Buy Crafts and Sell Crafts Online :: Handmade Catalog

Craft Events in Southern California in June 2011

2011-06-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

June is known for pleasant days and the perfect time of year for craft fairs and craft shows. Here are some the great events taking place this weekend (6/3/11 - 6/5/11) in the Los Angeles area and if you are staying in, be sure to shop for crafts at HandmadeCatalog.com. We have thousands of handmade crafts and hand crafted gifts and decor. We are always open, rain or shine!

Courtesy of Mommy's Craft Side:
6/3/11 -ChildTime's Country Fair.- Orange, CA-
Tons of Vendors (including our own I Heart Tutu's!) as well as food, Petting Zoo, Carnival Games & more!
5:30-8PM2839 VillaReal Rd
Orange, CA 92867
714.637.2022
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6/4/11 -Dexter Middle School Fundraiser Btq.- Whittier, CA
Over 40 Vendors!
11532 Floral Drive
Whittier, CA 90254
9AM-3PM
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Also in town this weekend:

6/4/11 - ARTWALK - Culver City, CA

The City of Culver City will present the sixth annual ARTWALK Culver City on Saturday, June 4, 2011 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. This free, self-guided tour of over thirty-five local art galleries and exhibition spaces is sponsored by The Hammer Museum, ForYourArt, 89.9 KCRW, LA Weekly, Flavorpill and Sony Pictures Entertainment. ARTWALK Culver City opens the doors of the area’s art galleries to introduce a wider audience to the unique vitality of the artist spaces of Culver City. Please contact the Culver City Cultural Affairs Hotline at 310.253.5716 for more information on ARTWALK Culver City.

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6/4/11 - Fiesta Del Sol - Solana Beach, CA (San Diego)

June 4 - 5, 2011

The 32nd annual event takes place adjacent to Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach within the area bordered by South Sierra Avenue and Acacia Avenue. The free two-day fiesta opens each morning at 9am with the arts & crafts fair and closes each evening at 9pm after the conclusion of the last musical performance.

Have a crafty weekend - see you at the show!

Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com

Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

New Crafts Wednesdays - June 1, 2011

2011-06-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

June is an event filled month, did you know it is the National Month for Fruits & Veggies, Roses, Dairies and Flags?

While many of our craft members are busy doing springtime craft shows, they are still adding new and exciting products to the HandmadeCatalog craft mall. Here's a shortlist of the new arrivals since last week:

New Beach decor:

Starfish Sea Shell Designs

Driftwood decor with a beach feel

New Beach Jewelry:

Walks on the Beach Bracelet

We also have dozens of new Fabrics for sale by the yard:

Cute Cats Fabric

Like I said, this is a short list, come see all the wonderful, "Handmade in the USA" crafts and decor at HandmadeCatalog.com - over 2,500 unique treasures await your visit.

Have a crafty Hump Day!

Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

Learn Crafts Online - How to Make Money with Scrapbooking‏

2011-05-31T08:06:00.000-07:00

It's possible to earn a living doing what you love - isn't
that what we all dream of?

Scrapbooking is a huge industry. There are tons of websites devoted 
to scrapbooking. You can find scrapbook supplies, scrapping 
inspiration, scrapbook quotes and much more. So, how do you jump into 
this hot market? How do you make money with scrapbooking?

Making money with scrapbooking is possible, the primary key to a 
successful scrapbooking business is to find a scrapbooking business 
format that fits your lifestyle and your goals. There are several ways 
to approach a scrapbooking business.

Are you interested in a scrapbooking business with a well-known product 
line? If so, then direct sales companies are a great way to get 
involved with the scrapbooking industry. With direct sales, you 
represent an already established product line and earn commission on 
your sales. You can find a variety of scrapbook direct sales companies 
online, I recommend you do some research before choosing a company. 
DSA.org is a great resource for shopping for a direct sales company. 
A lot of people start out home-based businesses with direct sales 
because it is a relatively inexpensive method of starting a home 
business.

Another way to make money with scrapbooking is to develop or craft 
your own signature line items. For example, you could custom design 
your own scrapbook kits, or perhaps you could specialize in quilling 
techniques for scrapbooking. If you are artistic, and you want to use 
your art skills to make money with scrapbooking, then this do-it-yourself
method might be the perfect avenue for you to start making money with 
scrapbooking. While, you are building up a customer base, ebay.com is 
a great way to get some exposure for your designs. By creating your own 
quality signature pieces, you'll create a devoted customer base.

Still, another way to make money with scrapbooking would be to create 
your own scrapbook web-store. This could be a very expensive venture 
with inventory etc. Be sure to do your homework and research and 
create a solid business plan before jumping into a business of this type.
If you have the capital, it would be a great way to get a foothold 
in the scrapbook industry.

Another fun way to make money with scrapbooking is by creating scrapbooks 
for others as a paid service. You could even specialize in certain key 
niches - baby scrapbooks, wedding scrapbooks, travel scrapbooks, etc. 
Busy moms and busy families are always looking for services to simplify 
their lives - a customized scrapbook service may be exactly what they 
need to get those photos into an album.

There's still another great way to make money with scrapbooking. It's 
called affiliate marketing. Affiliate marketing is a great way to make 
money online - you simply find affiliate programs that pertain to 
scrapbooking (and that have a good product line that you want to promote.) 
You can find programs via Google. The great thing about affiliate marketing 
is that you can start making money with little to no cash outflow. 
Affiliate programs are free to join - you just do the promotion.

As you can see, there are many opportunities to make money with scrapbooking. 
It's a matter of choosing which path you want to take - and maybe thinking 
a little outside the box. Good luck, I hope these tips help you make money 
with scrapbooking.

This article was written by Kim Monaco of Learn Crafts Online 
(http://www.learncraftsonline.com). She is a mommy on a mission
to help other people learn crafts and enjoy crafting, and maybe even
make $$ with crafting.

Have a crafty day!
Kim

Reposted with permission.

Kim, this is a great article for anyone wanting to start a crafts related business! Thank you for sharing and for being part of a great craft organization! After your master your crafts, be sure to offer them in our HandmadeCatalog!

Vlog Your Way to a Profitable Craft Business

2011-05-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

Vlog - what's that? This is the term for video blogs, a wonderful way to new share your talent with the world. Vlogs are for everyone, of course, but they are having a significant impact on the arts and crafts business as more and more videos are created and shared worldwide.

There are numerous ways a professional artist and crafter can utilize vlogging to increase exposure to their products and make money from advertising at the same time. For example, you could video yourself making your crafts or shopping for craft materials. You could also video your shop or your craft booth to share with those that live far away. One of the most popular ways to attract attention is to create a "how-to" video.

Here are some sites to help you get started vlogging about your crafts. You will want to get familiar with youtube.com just because this is the most popular and easy way to get started. Take some time to view the top rated craft videos to see what works and for inspiration. If you creating a "how-to" craft video you might want to post it to ehow.com, a site just for how-to do things. The new smart phones have video apps that allow easy posting and if you are lucky enough to have a new tablet, they have great video editing apps that will turn you into a polished videographer in no time. Don't forget to tell your Facebook fans about your video and post it to your profile too!

Another tip, add a text version of the sound track and add this to your posts. Many of us use our computers in silence (while others are sleeping or watching tv) and can't crank the volume. I like to watch the videos and be able to read the instructions too.

While you are trying to build your crafts business, be sure to learn how to monetize your blogs and vlogs by placing some advertising on your pages. Google's AdSense are the most popular, but there are many others that are easy to use. When you are semi-famous, get a hold of some craft related advertisers such as Jo-Anns or Michaels Crafts. Learn about their affiliate programs and earn a little profit each time they sell something that linked from your site. And there is always Amazon.com - you can add craft related books and other materials through their affiliate program too.

Once your video is published, let everyone know, including HandmadeCatalog.com. We will blog about it and help you launch this exciting new way to profit from your crafts. In fact, check our one of our top selling crafters, Long Meadows Farm Quilts' videos about her shop for a fantastic example of vlogging crafts for profits.

Have a Crafty Weekend!

Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com

New Crafts Wednesdays! New listing in May 2011

2011-05-25T08:29:00.000-07:00

Black & White Kitty Fabric

I am designating today and future Wednesdays posts to New Listings on HandmadeCatalog.com during the previous week or so as a way to showcase new products. We have been fortunate to have lots of new members this month and plenty of new arrivals from our long-time members too.

Personalized Christmas Stockings

Woof Woof's Custom Dog Boots recently joined HandmadeCatalog.com and I showcased her Custom Dog Boots last week. Since then they have added a lot of fabric for sale like this pattern on the right:

Mary Zee Crafts has been busy getting ready for the holiday and has listed some fantastic Christmas Stockings and Padded Children's Books that can be personalized like these on the left.

Black and White Flowers Organizers

GrammiBear Crafts has just listed more wonderful organizers, like this this black and white flower patterned organizer. These are great for all different kinds of applications, a teacher's desk comes to my mind first but then you can use these organizers everywhere. Year's ago, we purchased a similar design organizer to fit over a Home Depot bucket and were able to replace our crowed tool box and now, all the hand tools are easy to find. These organizers from GrammiBear Crafts make great gifts and are so attractive too!

Also new this week are these great place mats from SewJean. They are hand quilted and a little retro and I love them!

Quilted Green Flower Placemats

Wait, there are still more new listings, in fact too many too list here so please visit our website to find just the right handmade gift, decor and more!

Would you like to learn about how to sell your crafts online? HandmadeCatalog.com would love to help you turn your hobbies into profits!

Have a Crafty Wednesday Everyone!

Ruff N Stuff Collars - Member Spotlight

2011-05-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

On Tuesdays I like to put the spotlight on one of our HandmadeCatalog valued members and today I am writing about Ruff N Stuff Collars. This professional crafter has found her niche and what a fine niche it is. Handcrafted Dog Collars is Ruff N Stuff specialty and they have been marketing these well-made dog collars with us for years.

Ruff N Stuff Collars is home-based family business. All the dog collars are handmade and they offer over 200 different colors, prints and fabrics. Although all the collars are available in a 1" width, you can request other widths and other colors, patterns and fabrics.

The best part of Ruff N Stuff Collars, besides their wonderful dog collars, is that they post pictures of their customer's dogs wearing their new collars:

Here is a beautiful pup wearing his Ruff N Stuff Flames Collar

You can shop for Ruff N Stuffs Collars at HandmadeCatalog.com

Here are some of my favorites:

Pink Camo Dog Collar

Green Frogs Dog Collar

American Flag with Sparkles Dog Collar - Perfect for the 4th of July Picnic!

You can browse our website for more than dog collars you know, we also carry dog boots, dog blankets, dog clothing and dog beds - all handmade in the USA!!

Thank you Ruff N Stuff for brighting our days and our pups!

Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

My Quest To Crochet For Profit

2011-05-23T07:11:00.000-07:00

My Quest To Crochet For Profit by TAMMY RICH
Any hand crafted item displays a unique talent. Crocheting has been my first love since I was four years old. In sixth grade I crafted an original duck pattern on top of a plastic egg to make for all my friends. My first tablecloth was completed at age nine. My first granny square print blanket was completed in second grade. It came as no surprise when I decided to explore crocheting for profit.
My initial considerations included costs, profit and time. The deciding factor was the time involved in crafting a handmade print blanket. The market will only bear a certain sale price. By the time you subtract thread costs, labor equated to less than minimum wage. So I tried smaller items that were usually seasonal. Now you are talking inventory and lots of it. You can never predict what items will sell. When you find out, there is usually not enough time to replenish the stock. Such is the dilemma for seasonal items. It becomes difficult to keep up with demand while other items in inventory will be overstocked. Hiring help was not feasible as I did not know anyone with my level of talent. And the cost would be prohibitive.
Next I explored the idea of special order print blankets. First, it was hard to set a price because everyone wants a different pattern in a different size using different colors. Special colors require a search and are always more expensive. A little differentiation to a standard pattern may also require research and purchasing new design materials. Money, costs and more time are expended. Before you realize it, there is no profit.
And the biggest issue that most craft entrepreneurs overlook is the copyrighted design market. You simply cannot reproduce any copyrighted design for profit. This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to find yourself in the middle of a lawsuit. And everyone desires a print blanket featuring their favorite copyrighted sports team logo or cartoon character. Additionally, patrons sometimes feel they have complete artistic control over your creation since they are paying for it. It is extremely difficult to change a design midway through the creative process.
So I choose personally to crochet only for fun and enjoyment. If someone asks me nicely, I will usually craft them anything they desire. Sometimes people see my talent and demand one of their own. They feel money always talks and simply forget to ask me if I will do it for them. This mistake usually determines whether or not I do anything for them now or in the future. A demand for an item or a duplicate of a print blanket I am crafting will not generally work.
I do my best work for auctions and raffles for good causes I support. I purchase print blankets for my own personal use because I can always make anything for myself later. My crocheting time is better spent crafting one of a kind items for people who would otherwise never be able to own and enjoy a homemade print blanket. This ensures crocheting will continue to be my first love and favorite hobby.
Tammy Rich is an internet niche marketer who enjoys spending time online in internet forums, bookmarking sites and social sites. She is an advocate for female business owners. Visit My Inflatable Air Bed for a selection of inflatable air beds.

Re-printed with permission from Amazines.com

Pam Wylie says: "Thank you Tammy for your interesting look at crochet. I am sure our readers will benefit from your experience"

Are you looking for ways to profit from your crochet? Come sell online with us at HandmadeCatalog.com - we've helped so many crafters get started!
Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

Local Produce Patch Rocks Indio, CA

2011-05-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

After decades of being Angelinos (from Los Angeles) we moved about 150 miles south to the town of Salton City.

Once a week we go into town, either to Brawley which is about 30 miles to the south or north to Indio/Palm Springs.

Today we went to Indio / La Quinta, but we took the back roads, it is a beautiful ride and it took for ever since I wanted to stop every couple of miles to take pictures.

The first farm we came to was a vineyard. Did you know over 90% of the table grapes for the USA are actually grown right here in the Coachella Valley. We've watched these grapes grow from what looked like dead sticks in a row only to see them today:

You can actually see the lovely little grapes hanging in the shades of their leaves. Pretty soon you will see a great deal of grapes at your grocery store and there is a good chance they grew up right here in Indio.

Further down the road was a farm that was recently harvested and looked so peaceful it was hard to image that in 15 minutes we would be in La Quinta, complete with mini mansions, top golf and one of everything just like the big city.

Beauty in every direction today - those are date palms on the side!

And we scored some bargains at the produce patch too!

These were 4 for 1 Dollar

And Gala Apples for .99 cents / lb

Now we are stocked up and ready for a busy week ahead.

Hope you enjoyed your weekend too!

Fashion Meets Paws! New Custom Dog Boots

2011-05-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

Check out these new custom dog boots by
Woof Woof's Custom Dog Boots!

Does your best friend wear boots?

Does your dog wear boots?

Does that sound like a funny question?

Well, not as funny as you might think. Many of our four-legged friends need paw protection, just like we need shoes. For example, if you live in the desert, you already know to take your dog for his walk very early in the morning to prevent sunburn, heat exhaustion and burning the pads of his feet. But what about when you want to take your dog boating (aluminum docks are like rectangular fry pans), or a dog park with a huge white-hot parking lot you have to cross before you get to the grass? Another thing our pups get can get into is broken glass. Both our dog and cat have come in with cuts from glass they managed to find in our walks. Don't even get me started on snow. Or bees, snakes, etc. Anyway, you get the idea, boots just make sense for some dogs!

If your dog is new to boots, prepare to video his first wearing, it can be hilarious. But they get used them quickly, especially if they start to associate the boots with going outdoors.

When our buddy-dog first got his boots they only came in red, but thanks to Woof Woof's Custom Dog Boots, you can get a custom fitted pair of dog boots and in different colors too!

The Largest Arts and Crafts Fair In Southern Califonia

2011-05-20T17:23:00.000-07:00

The Fiesta Hermosa bills itself as the largest craft fair in So Cal and it happens twice each year, Memorial Weekend and Labor Day Weekend. If you haven't been, it is worth the trip.

There are over 250 arts and crafts booths with loads of hand made ceramics, original design jewelry and hundreds of other handmade crafts!

The Fair takes place in downtown Hermosa Beach with the ocean as the backdrop! The temperature is always mild when the cali-bound usher in the summer and whoosh it out at Labor Day.

There are 2 stages with live music, a giant food court - yum! and, oh yes, a Beer Garden!

Ride your bike, they have a bike valet service too!

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Can't make it to these shows, that's okay. You can always shop for crafts at HandmadeCatalog.com and if you are crafty, you can sell your creations here too!

Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

Vintage Market A'ffaire: 4 Days Left til the Next A'ffaire!"

2011-05-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

This looks like too much for any near Walnut, Iowa - had to mention it~

Vintage Market A'ffaire: 4 Days Left til the Next A'ffaire!"

Market Place Crafts 4th of July Brea, CA

2011-05-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Reserve your craft booth now!

July 4 Country Fair - 2011 – Brea, CA

7 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

at City Hall Park, 401 S. Brea Blvd

Admission is free

Contact (714) 990-7771 or patt@cityofbrea.net for more information
The day-long festivities begin with the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at 7 a.m. followed by the Brea Ministerial Association Morning Service. The Fair opens at 10 a.m. and continues until 4:30 p.m. with live entertainment, Kiddie parade, food, games, exhibits, Jr. Idol contest, teen fun area and Market Place craft area. Swimming at the Plunge begins at 11 a.m. for $1.

Nutcracker Craft Boutique in Brea, CA 2011

2011-05-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

Nutcracker Craft Boutique
Friday, November 18; 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. AND
Saturday, November 19, 2011; 9 a.m.-4 p.m
Where: at the Brea Community Center, 695 E. Madison Way
Admission is $2 and parking is free
Contact (714) 990-7771 or patt@cityofbrea.net for more information

This boutique has it all. Over 250 vendors display one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, decorations, food and collectibles. Shoppers can also pick up a quick snack or beverage at the Food Alley. All proceeds benefit the Community Center’s youth and family programs.

This is a fantastic show. There are both inside and outside (front and back) booths and no two vendors are selling exactly the same thing. I didn't see any questionable crafts, like the faux quilters or mass jewelry artists and I like that. You can certainly fill one day and possible two days if you really want to see everything. Brilliant new designs and ideas are everywhere as this is one of top North Orange County, CA, USA (close to Disneyland, CA) premier crafting events. If you are in Southern California and looking for a top Craft Fair or Boutique, this is the one to choose!

This craft event gets very crowded, so come early and be prepared to be patient while looking for parking.

This craft show is a "Rain or Shine" craft fair, so bring your sweater and umbrella if it looks like a storm is brewing.

See you there!

Gramma Knits Outside the Box

2011-05-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

Knitting, defined as combining a piece of thread with 2 needles, has been a method of fabric making for centuries and most of us associate hand knitting with blankets known as afghans. Little has changed in knitting for all these years until now. Let me introduce you to Gramma's Kints. This long time knitter has looked way beyond traditional knitting and brings us a fantastic new way to look at yarn. She gave up her knitting machine years ago and opts for the her highly skilled hands to produce exciting new products in a centuries old craft.
Here is my favorite example of knitting outside the box: Gramma's Knitted Book/Tote Bag:

This bag is pictured as a knitting tote but they can be made as a pocket book with long shoulder straps. They are knitted with double yarn and are double thick, making the so very sturdy. Also there are to outside pockets, one knitted and closed with a button, the other is lined with matching lining material. Then Gramma's Knits takes it a little further with these adorable knitted, stuffed animals:

These little cuties are soft with no buttons to pop off, they are sure to become their favorite bed-time pal.
Right now, Gramma is working on her latest creation so be sure to visit her website often for great crafts and plenty of inspiration for you to think outside the box.

Would you like to learn how to sell your knitting profit? We can help you at HandmadeCatalog.com and you can learn a lot from these two e-books:

Knitting for Profit - Knitting for Profit is a 134 page eBook by Liz Raad that teaches you how to knit from start to finish.
Knit-easy - a Knitters Guide to Success - Everyday thousands want to learn the ancient craft of knitting - to help themselves, help others, just to chill out, earn money and many other reasons - Knit-easy shows them how.

We would love to see your knitted creations and welcome your comments. Have a crafty day!
Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website,HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

Mother's Day Crafts - 5 Top Project Sites

2011-05-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

Maybe Mother's Day is holiday dreamed up by florists and card makers but it is nice to have a day to appreciate the Moms. When you are born, you enter into a relationship that is as unique as your tiny fingerprints. Lucky people have a very long, wonderful, deep, loving bond with their mothers, while others, not so much. When you mom is gone from your life or from this earth, the relationship doesn't end as you think it might. This special relationship grows on in your mind forever. It is as Marcus Tullius Cicero said, " The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living."

Build the memories while you can, learn everything your mom is willing teach you. She may not be right all the time, but she is your mom. Give her a call today or drop by if you can. You will make her day and trust me, years later you will remember today with happy thoughts.

You can tell I miss my mom, she's been gone for years now and today I will think of her a million times. Tears will well up, but not fall, as 40 years of happy Mother's Day memories replace the sadness almost immediately. One of the happiest memories of Mother's Day are the crafts my mom and I would create together. I've put together a list of my favorite websites that have Mother's Day craft projects and ideas below. Maybe you can create a crafty memory today.

Did you already create something for Mother's Day or did your child give you a great handmade Mother's Day craft? We would love to see some pictures, please send them by email or social network for sharing!

Below are my top 5 website picks for Mother's Day gift ideas and easy crafts.

1) Mother's Day Crafts - 151 - this site has 151 Mother's Day Crafts, from kids crafts to elegant creations.
2) Kaboose - this site has gifts, cards and recipes to make for Mother's Day
3) Mother's Day Celebration - lots of Mother's Day crafts for little kids and older kids
4) The Activity Cupboard - Mother's Day crafts are part of a large database of free craft projects, very cool.
5) The Crafty Crow - Great crafts for kids' Mother's Day crafts and they feature "Crafts by Amanda" (she's cool too).

Happy Mother's Day!
Pam Wylie ~ HandmadeCatalog.com
Life-Long Crafter and Professional Internet Marketer, Pam Wylie has helped 100s of professional crafters and artisans sell their handcrafted work online through her successful website, HandmadeCatalog.com for over 10 years now. She also performs website design, SEO training and is a full-time, loving care-giver.

Craft Fairs near the Salton Sea - Palm Springs Villagefest

2011-05-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Although the Salton Sea area is rather rural with lots of farm land we are only an hour away from Palm Springs. As you might imagine, PS has one of very everything and two most things, including luxury golf courses, fabulous hotels and spas and sunshine most of the year. Since the 1960's celebrities have been coming to the oasis in the desert. The streets have names like Bob Hope Drive and Dinah Shore Blvd. It's definitely a stark contrast from the Salton Sea area.

Just when you think there is no soul in Palm Springs, you discover the Villagefest on Palm Canyon. A very large dog-friendly festival in its 16th year! There are over 200 booths with unique food, local artwork and handmade crafts! There is live street entertainment and this show is voted the best event around, year after year.

What really sets this festival apart from other you may have attended, it is at night! The Palm Springs Villagefest happens every Thursday night, starting around 6 or 7 pm. Many of the shops and restaurants on Palm Canyon stay open late. Get a little different experience each time you visit. tantalize you with a new

5 Fab Gifts for Mom Under $50

2011-04-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is May 8th and we know you want to dazzle her with a unique and surprising gift. If you are like most of us these days, you are on a tight budget. Here are 5 absolutely wonderful gifts that will have your Mom wondering if you robbed a bank just for her:

Bottle Lamps

Copper Jewelry Sets

Knitted Hoodies

Cats Aprons

Plant Holders

Time to Thank your Teachers!

2011-04-25T06:10:00.000-07:00

Time to Appreciate your Teacher!

Teacher's Day is May 2nd and we have lots of great gifts for all types of teachers. This year your gift will stand apart from all other if you shop handmade. Fresh Apples are great gifts for teachers but why not try this Apple Cloche Hat or this Teacher Charm Bracelet?

We have things for the classroom too; the ABC Tissue Box Cover and the unique Curious George First Aid Kit. And we just added some fantastic children's padded books that can take a classroom beating. Teachers make a difference everyday - thank you!

If you want to find out when new crafts are listed, please sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for visiting and Have a Very Crafty Day!

Twin Zs Handmade Treasures Member Spotlight

2011-04-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

Twin Zs Handmade Treasures has been a valued member of HandmadeCatalog.com for years. She makes the most elegant badge holders. For those that have to wear a badge for work know all to well, the holder is important. I purchased one of Twin Zs holders and every day I received a compliment and a "where did you get it"?

These hand crafted badge holders are available in different colors and lengths so you can get just the right one to fit your wardrobe.

Twins Zs creates a lot of different crafts too, not just badge holders.

One the most viewed product on our website is the Travel Napper for children:

The Travel Napper makes riding in the car more comfortable for your little ones. These travel pillows are shaped like kids favorite animals. They go around the back of their necks and will support their heads and keep them from bobbing when they fall asleepl. They are made from soft fleece and stuffed with polyester fiberfill. Shape available; lamb, bunny, pink kitty, blue kitty.

These are just a few of the fantastic creations from Twin Zs Handmade Treasures. Most items include free shipping too!

Click here to view all of Twin Zs Handmade Treasures.

Moon & Stars Theme

2011-04-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Happening tonight, April 21, 2001, is one of the better Meteor Showers of the year, this shower is called the LYRIDS.

They should show up sometime over the USA after midnight tonight.

If you plan to watch, be sure to bring a blanket and some hot chocolate, it's still chilly out there.

Quite possibly, you will be inspired as our artists and crafters have been by the nigh

t sky as shown in these crafts; the Moon and Stars Cloche Hat, and this adorable Moon and Stars Baby Blanket, or the Moonlight By The Sea Necklace Set and the Selene Moon Goddess Bookmark.

Stay warm and enjoy the show but get some rest as the Earth Day is tomorrow and the Easter weekend starts tomorrow!

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