Idaho Etsy Team

Blueprint: Winning Etsy Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Katy Aguilar) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 16:00:00 +0000

I must admit that I have been in a sales rut this year. The economy may be bouncing back, but sadly, my shop has not seen the traffic or, more importantly, the sales, that it did when I first started up. So, I started asking myself, "What's wrong?". What's wrong with my product? What's wrong with me? I joined teams and tried getting more involved in networking on Facebook and Pintrest, but all these seemed to be having the opposite effect. So, again, I asked myself, "What went wrong?" I struggled with my own self doubt for a long while, convinced that I didn't have the chops to make it in such a highly competitive marketplace. What did I know? I was just a small town, Idaho-grown, nobody. So convinced was I that this recent lack of sales or traffic meant I had no chance to succeed, that I decided I was ready to close up shop.
I am writing a weekly spot on my South East Idaho Etsy blog called Friday Featured Shop, in which, I talk with fellow etsy sellers about their about their achievements on their etsy shop. I ask them a variety of questions, questions I believe new shop owners would be asking, had they the chance. And that's when it hit me! I am one of those new shops! I had the answers I needed right in front of me. These veteran shops were telling me, straight to my face, what needed to be done to make MY shop a success. Needless to say, I was feeling a little silly. Here I was, packing up shop, when I had awesome people sharing their stories of profit and success with me, and basically,handing me a blueprint for a winning business strategy. So, after I removed my dunce cap and unpacked my tulle, I decided my revelation should be shared! Let's jump right in!
1. PATIENCE

I can't stress this enough! Did you know that some of the most successful shops on etsy didn't make their first sale until four or more months after opening? I understand the feeling, eagerly looking at your stats page only to find out that the total days' views are less than noteworthy. It is so easy to feel discouraged about your brand. For me it felt like a cold rejection. The world had spoken. And

Katy was OUT! ......... Wrong! Patience is something I sorely lack. I was thinking that success was as simple as clicking 'Publish', and the sales would just come rolling in! But, if no one knows about my shop, how can I possibly hope to make a sale? And what hope would I have if I CLOSED my shop? Zero! Statistically, if you can brave the slow months when it seems all customers have disappeared, you will be rewarded later on. When you feel like giving up, like I did, ask yourself, "How may sales can I make if I have no shop for people to buy from?"
But patience isn't just sitting around and waiting and hoping that a sale will cross your path. You must be an active shop owner. Which brings me to number two in this blueprint.

2. NETWORKING
This as been the number one piece of advise I have gotten from almost all the shop owners. Using social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Pintrest are excellent (not to mention free!) ways to promote your brand. You would simply be a fool to pass up on the opportunity to share your product on high traffic sites like these. Starting a Facebook page featuring your items is so simple and gives all your friends, family and everyone who 'likes' your page an update every time you create something new. There is also an option to post your new material straight from etsy to your Facebook page. I have personally not entered the Twitter scene, as I am a bit daunted and a little confused by the whole thing, but I have heard from those who are familiar with it that it is a very effect marketing tool. Blogging, like this one you are enjoying now, is yet another totally effective AND completely free way to advertise your brand. I am slowly entering this high-tech world. Contributing to this blog was just one more tiny step I made to help myself get more comfortable with using the internet to my advantage. You too can create a customer base using this very effective tool. If you want your product to succeed take a deep breath and dive into the internet.
3. JOIN AN ETSY TEAM
You aren't the only one who wants you to succeed. Your family, friends and your fellow etsy teammates want to see you make the most of your business. Use this resource to help get your name out there. Give free product to your family and friends to wear around town and let your free walking billboards do the hard work for you. Participate in your etsy team by liking their items and adding people to your circle, they will almost certainly do the same for you. I am encouraged daily by my family and etsy teams members. Now, when I am feeling down, I turn to my family and etsy teammates for encouragement and answers. Use this valuable resource!
In conclusion, I would like to say that I have learned a very valuable lesson. Running a business is no cake walk and if you want it to be a success, you have to put hard work and a lot of time into it. These are just a sampling of the things that need to be done. Be creative and seize opportunities when they arise. You and your business will thank you for it. Preferably in dollars!

Linder Farms: Perfect for Fall Family Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Sal) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 16:48:00 +0000

Autumn is just around the corner....

Here in the Treasure Valley the leaves are starting to show hints of yellow and and cool(er) breeze is in the air. All these subtle changes remind me of one of my favorite places to visit in Idaho- Linder Farms. With it's opening date, Sept 21st, approaching, I thought I'd write up a little review for y'all.

This pumpkin patch found in Meridian, Idaho, is the perfect destination for Fall Family Fun. Complete with a petting zoo and laser tag, it provides a variety of activities that kids (and parents) of all ages will enjoy. One of my favorite things to do is go through the cornmaze and then ride on the hayride to find the perfect pumpkin for our porch.

Going to Linder Farms has been a family tradition of ours for 3, going on 4 years now.Their prices are very affordable and the customer service is amazing.

Check our there website for more information.

http://www.linderfarms.com/

Happy Fall (well, almost ☺)!

Sincerely,
Sal

WiP Wednesday #26

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000

My rotary cutting. Let me show it to you.

I know it doesn't look like much, but I spent a ton of time going through my fabric scraps and piecing them (which I love), and then I spent a ton of time using a rotary cutter (which I hate) to make them into even strips. I'll take the strips and sew them into logcabin blocks. That's next on the agenda. I love using this method to create bright and random-patterned blocks.

I use the blocks in quilts, or I make them into fat quarter sized blocks and use them in patterns just like I would any other fat quarter. It's a great way to have less fabric waste.

So that's what I've been up to. :) I'm starting to stress about the holiday craft show I do in Eagle, though. I really need to start cranking things out if I'm going to be ready in time.

Last week Lizbeth from Elizabeth's Garden joined up with a fun share. She's made it a goal to create a tiny tassel in every color she has on hand. Very cool! She's even being really organized about it, as evidenced below.

Great job! You can see more about her project by clicking the image above, or click here to visit her Etsy Shop.

Ready to join up? Just add a link to your blog where you've written about any in-progress project you're working on. It's that easy. Thanks for dropping by!
-Jerimi

WiP Wednesday #25

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000

I have a confession to make. I didn't get my rotary cutting done. *Le sigh* Maybe this week I'll get it done. I've put my back out pretty badly, though, so it's going to be a toss-up on whether I get it done.

I have been working on catnip pillows for my Etsy shop, and for an upcoming craft show, though. Aren't they cute? I love working with so many different colors.

All the little plastic baggies now have kitty faces on them, and are ready to be filled with catnip. I still have the sharpied fingers to prove it, too.

Last week Russet Lodge Knits shared several gorgeous and fun works-in-progress, including some original art work:

And check out the color on this:

That dyed fiber is a work of art all by itself. It reminds me of a Georgia O'Keeffe painting. You can read more about her (many!) works by clicking on the images above, or check out her Etsy shop by clicking here.

Thanks so much for joining us this week. I hope you'll share what you've got in the works by linking up this week. Thanks, and have a great week.
~Jerimi

WiP Wednesday #24

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Hello, all! I've spent most of a week down with the flu, so I've got a lot of catching up to do.

I finished the current batch of catnip kitty quilts! Check it out.

And in further news, I'm using up my scraps, oh yes I am. All these scraps have been pieced. Now I need to iron and trim them to size so I can make them into log cabins.

Last week Gabrielle shared her work in progress, which was nothing less than building an entire blog. Holy cow, Gabrielle! Great job! Check it out:

You can click on the image above to visit her lovely website or here to visit her Etsy shop.

Ok, ready to join in and show off all your work? Link up any time between now and Monday. Let's see what you've got!

WiP Wednesday #23

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Friends, Romans, Craftspersons, lend me your pepto! No, really. Lend me your pepto. I've been flattened by a nasty case of the flu, so this week's entry is going to be necessarily short. My husband is giving me the stink-eye as I type this, because I should really be in bed. Luckily, you can't catch the flu through a website, so you should be safe.

So below is the button you should click to share your lovely works in progress. I hope to hear from you!

Wishing you love, laughter, and a complete lack of the flu,
~Jerimi

WiP Wednesday #22

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Is it Wednesday again? Yay! That means it's time for *da*da*da*DUM* "Work In Progress Wednesday!" Ok, maybe that was a little over the top. Anyhow... it's me again, Jerimi.

I have a few irons in the fire this week, so to speak (not literally, because it's way too hot to have a fire right now). Still finishing up the last of this batch of catnip mini quilts:

If you click on the one below, you can see it in my shop. :)

I'm restocking my catnip samples, which means spending some up close and personal time with a sharpie. See all these tiny bags that I've written on?

I still need to draw kitties on them, like so:

So that's what I'm working away on. Last week we had two people step up to share their projects.

Lizbeth from Lizbeth's Garden and Barb from Mountain Quilt Works.

Lizbeth is working on a batch of Potpourri, which how cool is that? That's honestly something it's never crossed my mind to make, and that's saying something! I just don't have the skillset for it. Lizbeth sure does, though. She's also got quite a gift for photos. Check it out.

Beautiful, right? You can click on the image above to visit her blog, or here to visit her Etsy shop.

Barb shared some absolutely stunning batiks, as well as some interesting industry facts about shipping fabric.

I tell you what, I am loving that lime green. You can click on the image above to read more at Barb's blog, or visit her Etsy shop here.

Ready to join in? You can add a link to your own work any time between now and Monday evening. Thanks for dropping by. :)

Featured Seller - Bee Wise Goods

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Sun, 12 Aug 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Bee Wise Goods! Read on to learn more about Gabrielle and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Bee Wise Goods, we made a really long list of potential names and kept crossing things off until we decided on Bee Wise. When we decided on Bee Wise, the tagline became bee wise...shop wise to inspire people to consider every purchase and the way it would fit into their life. When I was young I would never by anything used because I had this notion that it was dirty or old fashioned but as I have become more wiise in my spending habits the treasure I have found over the years are far superior to anything I can find at a big box store. Etsy and small local boutiques are just better!

What do you love about Idaho?

The pace. I am originally from here but only came back to live 10 years ago, it's definitely my favorite home. When we first returned to Idaho in 1998 after living on every coast, in Canada, Alaska, the south, southwest, east and everywhere in between, I had a hard time at first settling down. I wanted to move again within a few years. I wanted more restaurants or shops, theater events... just more. Then Boise really started growing into a wonderful little (big) town. I friend of mine started the First Thursday thing after living in a large city that had a similar event, then shops started popping up and terrific restaurants. Now when I travel, I LOVE coming home to my city and I truly appreciate everything Idaho has to offer.

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Hike at Bogus Basin or Stack Rock. We also love to take people around the North End for shopping and local flavor. McCall is another destination that doesn't take long to get to and it has so much beauty to share.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I love bubble gum.

What do you do to relax?

I like to garden. Although gardening my main pass time, I also read a lot. It is the only way I can turn off the meandering of my brain and settle into a peaceful state. I'm not known as a relaxed person, I am always doing something, while doing something else. :) I knit and watch TV, I sew while listening to audio books or documentaries, I garden and teach school, I make bread while cleaning the pantry. I'm definitely going to be tired when I die. :)

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

India. I have a special place in my heart for India, we sponsor several children that live there and as we exchange letters with them and grow to understand the culture they live in, I would really like to take my kids there and meet them and help in improving their lives by doing maintenance on the orphanage and school they are at.

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

The cutie owl, but the woolie mittens I make in the winter run a close second. :)

How did you become interested in your craft?

I've been artistic always...went to school to be an artist...became one going on 20 years professionally...I am ever consummed by making functional and beautiful things. I grew up in a very hippie make everything from scratch environment. When my truck broke as a teenager or my jeans ripped, I was expected to figure it out and fix it. With help at first but soon, on my own. My mom owned an outfitter company in Alaska and I made dog booties by the thousands through high school. I went to college to become an industrial designer but stopped at fine artist. Then I built sets, made costumes, painted murals, simply repaired clothing, then made clothing and finally started Bee Wise with a reusable bag. We now have over 65 items in our line and I'm sure I will just keep coming up with more stuff as time goes on. Many things are custom oriented and sell slowly but I have personally made over 1200 grocery bags and 300 cutie owls, 250 pairs of mittens and so on. I love my craft, I love that I can make whatever I want and there are not limits to what can be imagined.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

The idea... I love making everything once, it's the production that is work. Mass production is not my favorite part of making and selling things but when I went to a manufacturer a few years ago and crunched numbers, I realized that unless I was supplying a store much larger than mine, I would give away my profit to not make it myself. I realized at that point that I want to be in charge of my quality control and just keep making everything until I can't keep up, then I would hire a couple of local sewists to help me rather than go the manufacturing route. Mary Jane Butters gave me that inspiration since that's what she does for many of her personal touched on her line of products. Rural women work for her to embroider etc. It keeps the work right in our own communities.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Don't give up! Usually creative people are going to keep being creative whether they sell their things or give them away. If you know your product has a buyer, that you are filling a need and can get the price to make it worthwhile, then go for it until it runs out, then be willing to change with the consumer to make the next thing that you love.

Thank you Gabrielle for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Gabrielle's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by Sara (I Felt Fuzzy).

WiP Wednesday #21

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Hi! Ready to share your work, this week? It's me again, Jerimi. I hope your summer is going great!

What a week. We celebrated my stepson's 14th birthday. Good lord. How did that happen? I won't lie - I'm feeling a little old, right now. Ok, a lot old. He's growing into a wonderful young man. Saying that just made me feel even more ancient. OK, changing the subject, now. :P

In other, less traumatic news, I completely finished 10 catnip blankets. That leaves 12 to go.

I was going to use velcro on the pockets, but it wound up making them really bulky. I think an open pocket looks much better.

Last week we were joined by Bonnie, from STUFFellaneous. She shared an Andy Warhol quote that inspired some of her work. Love it. Here's a shot of the postcards she's currently designing.

Aren't those materials fun? I can't wait to see what she makes it into. You can visit Bonnie's blog to read more (and see the quote!) by clicking on the photo above. You can also visit her Etsy shop.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

WiP Wednesday #20

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another installment of "Work In Progress Wednesday." I'm your host, Jerimi.

I don't know about you, but I haven't gotten done nearly what I would have liked to. We got a letter in the mail that we're going to have to endure yet another inspection by the property manager. So we've spent a lot of time getting things tidied up this week. It's been hard to make this place our home, since I feel constantly under the microscope. I will be very grateful when we're finally able to buy a home.

On the plus side, my garden is going like gangbusters. Thank you, little bee buddies!

I finished a few small gusseted bags with velcro closures. I think they're adorable, and I LOVE making them. I see making another 20 or so of them in my near future. I'm obsessive like that, I guess. ;)

You can click on the photo above to see it in my Etsy shop.

Last week we were joined by two brave souls.

Amanda, from Stitch To Stitch and Bonnie from STUFFellaneous.

Amanda shared some super cute little flowergirl sundresses. The colors, the eyelet, the ribbon... they're so sweet!

I can only imagine how cute these would be for a wedding. Her Etsy shop is just full of adorable items.

Bonnie celebrated the sale of her first handmade book (way to go!) and shared a book that was in progress. I love her scrappy approach!

She's got several fun items in her shop, too. LOVE the postcards! I'm on a real letter writing kick, and her cards look like too much fun.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

WiP Wednesday #19

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Hello, everyone! Welcome to another Work In Progress Wednesday. I'm your host, Jerimi.

As a PSA, I wanted to pass on a little tip if you're a blogger. Many blogs are set up so that people can only comment if they have, for instance, a WordPress account, or Gmail account, or Blogger, or... you name it. If your blog isn't set up to allow people the option to comment with "Name/URL", then you're missing out on reader participation. Between my various jobs and everything else, I already have 5 (FIVE!) email accounts to look after. I'll bet I'm not alone in that. I'm unlikely to take the time to set up yet another account, even if I really, really want to leave a comment. It's just too much to keep track of.

So, if you want more participation on your blog, make sure your comments are set to allow "Name/URL" as an option. :) Ok, that's the end of my PSA for today. I promise.

I'm getting really close to having a batch of pet blankets done. The bindings need to be hand sewn on the back, and I still need to make and attach catnip pockets. So close!

I'm also creeping up on my 100-item goal for my Etsy shop. It's been a long haul, but I'm nearly there. :) Everything I've read says 100 is the magic number. Does anyone have any opinion to add to that assertion? Have you found it to be true? Please feel free to chime in!

Last week we were joined by Elizabeth, from Lizbeth's Garden. She's been working on some stinkin' cute keychains.

They look like hard work, and they're awfully cute. Here's a finished one from her Etsy shop.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Featured Seller - Needle Nosey!

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 03:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Needle Nosey! Read on to learn more about Susan and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

NeedleNosey is my name and stitchin is my game. :) I wanted a name that related to needlework and I also wanted a little bit of a snark factor to go with the slighly irreverent nature of the shop. I thought NeedleNosey fit.

What do you love about Idaho?

Boise reminds my husband and I so much of where we both grew up in Northern California. We love the people, the outdoors, and in the summer we especially love the farmer's market downtown. We love wandering around and eating ourselves silly while supporting local businesses.

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Camp by a quiet lake, float the Boise River, and hit the farmer's market!

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I started competitive swimming when I was 9 and continued until I was 17 when I had to stop because of injuries. I loved it but had green hair for a lot of years.

What do you do to relax?

I wish I had more time to read! There just aren't enough hours in the day. I tend to multitask though so I always have an audiobook (or 4) loaded on my iPod. If I'm on the move or my hands are busy, I love having somebody read to me. Libraries are a great resource for audiobooks. :)

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

Universal in Florida. Harry Potter Theme Park. Yes. I'm a nerd.

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

At the moment, my favorite is the Bad Spellers pillow. My day job requires perfect spelling and grammar. Hubby is....spelling impaired. The subject has been a running joke in our relationship for over 25 years.

How did you become interested in your craft?

My grandmother taught me to stitch when I was 8 years old. We started with Christmas ornaments. I still have those ornaments on my tree every year.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

Needlework has always been an escape for me. It's something that allows me to slow down and tune the rest of the world out for a bit. I love being able to pass on to customers something that gives me so much pleasure. While most of the things in my shop are pretty basic, I'm always amazed that simple colored thread can produce such great things.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

I've been giving my finished products away for years and was always surprised when the recipients would exclaim over them. I guess I didn't get what they were so excited about because I've been stitching since time out of mind. I finally started to look into Etsy as a venue to thin out my pile of finished Christmas ornaments. The pillows were an afterthought. I listed a few items with my knees knocking and convinced the whole idea of me selling anything to anybody was ridiculous. Stupid me. My biggest suggestion would be to go in with confidence. I've been amazed at the response. If there is something you love to do, then just do it and jump in with both feet. :)

Thank you Susan for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Susan's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.

WiP Wednesday #18

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another Work In Progress (WiP) Wednesday! I'm a little under the weather this week, so it's going to be a short post. I hope your week is going better than mine! :)

I'm still plugging away at pet quilts. Most of them are done through the quilt sandwich stage. Many are quilted. Some have binding pinned on. I know it doesn't look like much, but it definitely felt like a lot.

My office looks like someone turned squirrels loose in it. It's been impossible to work on this project and have a neat office. Oh well! I'll probably live. ;) I'd like to have at least 24 completely done, so that I have a full page of them in my Etsy shop.

Last week we were joined by Barb, from Mountain Quiltworks. She's making some gorgeous granny blocks using these fabrics. I would never in a million years have thought to put these colors together, but I LOVE them.

She also shared a cute story about a close encounter with a skunk! Click on the photo above to read more about it on her blog, or you can visit her Etsy shop here.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Featured Seller - Russet Lodge Knits

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Russet Lodge Knits! Read on to learn more about Diane and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Russet Lodge Knits is the name of my shop, it's actually taken from a British comedian named Catherine Tate. She's a redhead and redheads are subjects of a lot of discrimination in the UK, so she came up with a comedy sketch about a safe house for redheads called Russet Lodge. As a redhead myself I thought this was hilarious, but it's also a nice cozy sounding name and evokes Idaho potatoes too. So far nobody's ever asked me about the Catherine Tate connection.

What do you love about Idaho?

I love everything about Idaho! I love the beautiful sunny weather, the ease of getting out into nature, the amazing fly fishing, the interesting history... I've lived all over the place, but I keep coming back to Idaho.

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Oh gosh, there are so many choices! I think one of my favorites in the Boise area is the Penitentary museum/botanical gardens. You can climb Table Rock with a picnic and it makes a great day out. I also enjoy the historic town of Chesterfield (near Soda Springs), which my family lived in for a long time. My great-grandma's house is there and it's now a museum. It's a big brick house and there's a US Geological Survey marker in the wall right near the front door.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I have eight chickens at home, named for characters from books, history, or tv shows I like.

What do you do to relax?

I love getting out in my garden and pulling weeds. I also enjoy listening to podcasts and audio books, and I help teach a Scottish dance class. Dancing is one of my greatest pleasures.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

I would love to go to Chile. The natural environment there is so beautiful. A backpacking trip would be my ideal way to visit.

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

One that generates a lot of buzz is my listing for custom spinning your pet's fur into yarn and, if desired, knitting it into a keepsake. I use brushings from your pet and I've created some really lovely yarns in the past. It's a nice way to keep a little bit of your pet with you wherever you go.

How did you become interested in your craft?

I've been interested in (and exposed to) the fiber arts since I was very young. My mom is a quilter, my grandma is a knitter, everyone in my family does something creative. I was always fascinated with folklore and fairy tales involving knitting, spinning, and weaving, and I was thrilled when I realized people still did these things and I could learn too! There's something about the history of these arts, the fact that they go back to the dawn of human civilization... it just thrills me and I feel like I have this connection with the past that is so profound.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

I really enjoy the sense of having busy hands but a mind that is free to wander and think over whatever thoughts pop up. I especially enjoy the mathematical and technical challenges of knitting. The idea of taking something as simple as yarn and figuring out how to make it into a three-dimensional object that will fit on a body is really interesting.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Go for it! The more time you put into it, the better it gets. The best suggestion I've ever received was to have a routine for posting items and doing other things like tweeting, blogging, giving away prizes, working with groups, etc. It can get overwhelming to do everything at once, so just take it one bite at a time.

A huge thank-you to Idaho Etsy Team. This is a great community and you guys are doing a lot to help us have fun and make the most out of Etsy.

Thank you Diane for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Daine's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief/I Felt Fuzzy.

WiP Wednesday #17

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Well, it's Wednesday again, and that means it's time for another WiP Wednesday! I'm your host, Jerimi. This is where we can share what we're all working on, whether it be crafty or otherwise.

I've been busily turning this:

Into this:

(Pet quilts.)

I've also got a lot of pieces cut for whole-cloth pet blankets, too. It feels really good to be using my fabric! My tendency is to buy it, then be too afraid to actually use it, because what if I mess up? Ridiculous, isn't it?

Last week Bonnie from STUFFellaneous shared some lovely book art projects, including this journal cover.

Doesn't she do beautiful work? Click on the photo above to read more on her blog, or you can visit her Etsy shop here.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Featured Shop of the Week - JMecham Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Sun, 08 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured shop of the week, JMecham Collection! Read on to learn more about Jamie and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

jmechamcollection...I decided to use my name mostly because I just love crocheting and have such a collection of patterns that I love to do almost any type of crochet work.

What do you love about Idaho?

I love the lifestyle. The farms in the area bring me such pride in my community and state.

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Camping... Idaho has so many wonderful places to explore the great outdoors.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I just had a beautiful baby girl about one month ago.

What do you do to relax?

I love to go for walks outside. I find the fresh air really rejuvinates me and clears my mind.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

I would love to travel to see the giant red wood trees in northern California.

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

My black and purple fringed scarf. I just love those colors.

How did you become interested in your craft?

I was taught crocheting when I was just a little girl. I find it really relaxes me and allows me to express myself creatively.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

I love developing patterns, color combos, and just trying new techniques.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Just to keep on keeping on. You may not have success immediately but all good things come to those who wait and persevere.

Jamie also loves to connect with all the local crafters we have in this wonderful state. You should leave her a comment and get in touch!

Thank you Jamie for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Jammie's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.

WiP Wednesday #16

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another WiP Wednesday. I'm your host, Jerimi. This is where we can share what we're all working on, whether it be crafty or otherwise.

Ready to see what I've been working on? Here it is! Forty finished needle books, buttons and all. These were fun to make. I really like the pirate-themed one.

Here's one that makes me smile every time. You can click on it to see it in my shop.

On to the next project!

I have a jump start on making some pet blankies. Here are several of the bindings that are waiting on blankets/quilts.

Last week we were joined by Diane from Russet Lodge Knitting, who shared her progress on both spinning, and a set of kilt hose. How cool are these?

Click on the photo above to read more about Diane's work, or visit her Etsy shop by clicking here.

McKenzie from Girl Loves Glam also dropped by to share some summer beauty tips.

Click on the photo above to read her tips, or click here to visit her Etsy shop.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

WiP Wednesday #15

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

It's been a wonderfully busy week, craft-wise. I'm still steadily working away to restock my Etsy shop, and part of that has been making needlebooks.

About half of them still need pages, and most of them still need buttons. I think the buttons are my favorite part, probably because they're not at all structural. There's no pressure to picking them out and sewing them on. I'm hoping to get these completely done this week. Wish me luck.

Mom's quilting group has been good enough to save their scraps for me. I've also been turning this:

Into this (covers for needlebooks):

If you'd like to read more about my WiPs, please click on any of the images above to visit my blog. :)

Last week we had two brave link partiers (is that even a term? It is now). Bonnie, from STUFFellaneous shared some really cute handmade books, inspired by tutorials on Pinterest.

Click on the image above to visit Bonnie's blog, or click here to visit her Etsy shop.

McKenzie from Girl Loves Glam shared a truly inspired tile make-over. I would never in a million years have thought of this, but I love it.

How cool is that? Click on the image above to see more at McKenzie's blog, or you can visit her Etsy shop by clicking here.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Featured Seller - Cheery Groove Crafts

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Cheery Groove Crafts! Read on to learn more about Sharon and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Cheery Groove Crafts. I love the Emperor's New Groove movie, and we try to be cheerful too. I smashed the two together and came up with Cheery Groove.

What do you love about Idaho?

The scenery! I love the Mountains and trees the best. I love the view from the tops of the mountains, and I love hiking in the forest. I love coming across unexpected streams. I love everything about Idaho, but most specifically the forest :)

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

I love hiking in North Idaho, though I live in the South. I grew up in Washington on the Idaho border and could literally throw a rock into Idaho from my house. There were lots of places to hike, right outside my door.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I can to the worm. I also love hamburgers :0)

What do you do to relax?

Photograph my kids.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

England. I want to visit England because I love the rain, and I love how green it makes everything. England seems to green and lush. Totally the kind of vacation spot I dream of. Plus I love everything English. Especially Harry Potter, yes I'm a nerd!

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

My corduroy boys blessing suits.

How did you become interested in your craft?

I started sewing when I was little, my mom loved to sew and showed me how.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

Seeing it all come together in the end.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Just find something you love and don't worry about being popular. If you love it, others will love it too.

Thank you Sharon for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Sharon's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.

WiP Wednesday #14

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to Work In Progress (WiP) Wednesday here at the Idaho Etsy Team Blog. As usual, I'm Jerimi, from Three Cat Limit. It's been a busy couple of weeks! I hope your week was happily full of good things. On the crafty side of things, I've been making needle books. Lots and lots of needle books.

A look at some of the book covers in-progress.

Some fun new fabric I found online. Can't wait to use this!

One of the completely finished books.

I'm pretty excited about getting so much done. It doesn't always work out that way! If you'd like to read more about my WiP, please click on one of the photos above. Thanks!

And now for my favorite part - showcasing some of our talented team members.

Diane from Russet Lodgejoined us last week. She shared some fun shots of in-progress kilt hose, and actual spinning with hand-dyed fibers. I don't knit, but spinning has always looked so peaceful and meditative to me. I love seeing other people doing it.

Isn't that blue just gorgeous? You can read more about Diane's work by clicking on the photo above to visit her blog, or click here to visit her Etsy shop.

We were also joined by Amanda from Stitch to Stitch. You've got to see these shots of her garden. The peonies are just beautiful.

You can click on the photo above to visit her blog, or click here to visit her Etsy shop.

Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Featured Seller - Just Hangin' Around

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Just Hangin' Around! Read on to learn more about Susan and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Just Hangin' Around. I make and sell jewelry, wall decorations and clutch bags...things that hang!

What do you love about Idaho?

My husband and I love the weather and fishing!

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Be sure and spend time in the outdoors, even if its just for a drive in the mountains.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I cannot pass up a garage sale, even if I'm going to be late for an appointment if I do.

What do you do to relax?

Fishing. Fishing. Fishing. Catch and release of course!

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

England. Its where my husband is from, and I would love to see where he grew up.

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

The green beaded cuff bracelet.

How did you become interested in your craft?

It evolved when my girls were young. It was a peaceful place I could go to be creative.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

Taking and object and making it into something else.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Don't get discouraged! There are plenty of people out there who will think your stuff is as cool as you do!

Thank you Susan for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Susan's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.

Featured Seller - Bubble Wabble

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Bubble Wabble! Read on to learn more about Elena and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Bubble Wabble - My kids helped me to come up with this name.

What do you love about Idaho?

Mountains! I also really enjoy camping!

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Just drive around - meet people, try our food...

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I was born in Europe.

What do you do to relax?

Spend time with my children and read books.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

Europe - Everyone really needs to go to Europe at least once in their lives!

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

My gator mitt and French Vanilla soap :)

How did you become interested in your craft?

I started doing my whimsical bath mitts when my son was little and hated to take baths...I came up with a mitt - he loved it, so did my friends ...

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

The final result - I make my own patterns for the mitts and see the bath mitt "to be born" from the picture - that's my favorite part.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Go for it! It won't hurt, and you'll have so much fun doing what you like to do!

Thank you Elena for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Elena's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.

WiP Wednesday #13

noreply@blogger.com (Jerimi) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Work In Progress (WiP) Wednesday here at the Idaho Etsy Team Blog. As usual, I'm Jerimi, from Three Cat Limit. If you're new to link parties, this is where team members can share a link to their blog (or Picassa, or Flickr, etc) to show off something they've been working on. You can jump in anytime between now and Monday night. I hope you'll consider giving us a peek at your work! Each week I try to feature someone who shared a WiP with us.

Since my sewing machine has been broken, I've been shaking the rust off my book arts interest. In other words, I've been turning this:

Into these:

It's been a lot of fun, and actually a nice change of pace. I'd forgotten how much fun it is to make little books. Ready to join the linky party? It will be open from today through next Monday. You can join up at any time between now and then.

Yum-Idaho Potato Shell Taco Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Custer) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

One of our team Pinterest's most repinned photos is that of the Idaho Potato Shell Taco Pie. I, myself, have not tried it yet (I don't like potatoes...shhh living in Idaho I did NOT just say that) but my wife really wants to try it. With over 450+ repins I thought I'd share the recipe here.

Idaho Potato Shell Taco Pie

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

¼ cup butter
⅔ cup milk
1 pkg. taco seasoning mix (1¼ oz.)
2½ cups mashed potato flakes
1 lb. ground beef
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded (4oz.)
sour cream, optional

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium sauce pan, melt butter.

Add milk and 2 Tbsps. of taco seasoning mix. Remove from heat and stir in potato flakes until incorporated. Press mixture over bottom of 10" pan.

2. In a medium skillet, cook beef and onions until beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain off fat and stir in remaining taco mix and barbecue sauce. Cook while stirring until bubbly, then pour into prepared potato crust.

3. Bake uncovered in oven for 30-35 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, and then top with cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. Cut into squares and serve with sour cream.

Recipe: Culinary Operations Manager Robert Landolphi, University of Connecticut, Storrs. Photo: The Idaho Potato Commission

Featured Seller- Every Little Thing!

noreply@blogger.com (Hideko) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Say hello to the Idaho Etsy Team's featured seller of the week, Every Little Thing! Read on to learn more about Pam and get a sneak peak into her shop!

(click on any photo to take you directly to the listing so you can learn more about the item!)

What is your shop name and what is the significance?

Every Little Thing- I found some random word dog tags and looking at them in my hand they spelled out "Every Little Thing" and that is what I use in my art -found objects or every little thing I find.

What do you love about Idaho?

There are lots of places to hike and bike ride.

Name one thing you would suggest people do when they come to visit the state?

Visit Stanley and the Sawtooth Mountains.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I just competed in my first mountain bike race.

What do you do to relax?

read, bike ride, watch a movie

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

Cinque Terre, Italy

Currently, what is your favorite shop item?

"Frog goes to the stream" reminds me what I love about Idaho.

How did you become interested in your craft?

I've always loved art. I was a painting major, then an art teacher and now incorporate my collections of stuff in my art.

What do you enjoy about the creative process?

It is literally like playing with the materials and coming up with fun combinations.

Any suggestions for those interested in selling their handmade items or vintage finds?

Start with a local event and grow from there.

Remember to have fun!

Thank you Pam for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better! I highly encourage you to check out Pam's shop HERE to see more!

This post was created by PhDstressrelief.