Krafty Max Originals

Tantrum Thusday 5/24/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Thu, 24 May 2012 09:19:00 +0000

I am sure that I could think of a good Tantrum for today, but I just cant seem to get in the mood for it. I have been working on a big project that just 'doesn't love me' lately and I have actually reached a point where I am setting it aside. I have tried and tried, but it just wont come to me. So, it has been replaced with another project - just as hard.... oh well!?! :)

One of the things I try to do is list something new everyday, but this week I have been very behind (means I have been trying to bead more) than I usually am. But, I thought I would ask if everyone has seen my DESTASH studio. Many don't know that I even have it! Here is just a few items I have:

So, for today I will make it short, I want to get working on my project....

If you're going to be able to look back on something and laugh about it, you might as well laugh about it now!

- Marie Osmond

Wonderful Wednesday 5/23/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 23 May 2012 09:05:00 +0000

Yesterday was spent ripping out the rows I had done the night before on a new creation I have been working on. I think I was 'sleep beading'! I am not really sure what was going on, but I was only beading about every third row!! So, my advice..... don't craft when you are exhausted!! :)

I want to show off this amazing collection that I am included in!

All Stitched Up!!!

Curated By: JewelrybyBeth

ArtFire.com

Jewelry Supplies

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I know that this isn't a new listing, but it is still one of my favorites! Please check it out!!!

Prehnite and Copper - oh my - Necklace Set - OOAK

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So for now, it is back to 're-beading' again! I have beaded and re-beaded some of the rows so many times I actually know them by heart.... but, it will be soooooo worth it once it is done!

Kindness is one of the most attractive assets of the human race.

-Anonuymous

Terrific Tuesday 5/22/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Tue, 22 May 2012 09:23:00 +0000

Yesterday turned out to be everything I hoped for! I was able to get so much done! Once again I am beading like crazy! With Birthday's and Graduations all happening at this time there is plenty of 'last minute' orders. I also just received an order for an entire bridal party. This one will be fun because they are all wearing different colors!! I'll get to make something for EACH brides maid - in her own color and style!

I have also been working on a 'larger' project. This one will be something amazing - if I can get it done in time and the way I want it! I'll start posting the photos on Wednesday if everything goes right - I've had to rip out and start over several times, so let's hope I got it right this time!!!

Yesterday I was able to list this amazing halter that my friend over at Par-O-Dice Creations finished. I was able to get Aye to model it for us, and boy was that a wake-up call. Just look at my 'little girl'! She is growing up so very fast! I know, it is about the amazing top that she is wearing, but I just can't get over how BIG she looks - until the last photo?!?! You'll have to click on the photo and go to the studio to see the LAST photo - I don't want to ruin the surprise!!

Hand Crochet Pink Yellow and White Summer Halter - Par-O-Dice Creation

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Then I listed another pair of earrings... I am having so much fun with these!!

Green and White Beadwoven Earrings

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Now, since I am bragging on my beautiful daughter I'll show off one more of her sketches. This is the 'eye of the dragon'. I am just amazed at her talent.....I wish she would draw even more....maybe a dragonfly? I DO have a birthday coming up!?!? :)

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Alright, I guess that is enough for now! I do want to leave you with this wonderful quote;

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.

~Helen Keller

Marvelous Monday 5/21/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Mon, 21 May 2012 08:39:00 +0000

Any of you that follow me every day know that I was out of town for most of the week. I went to a conference that will help me with my work at Operation: Military Kids. It was a wonderful couple of days - learning and listening - or as our great instructor said - FUN, FACTS and FOOD!!!

However, I was away from family and house and boy did I miss it! It is amazing how just a couple of days can make a difference!!

So, when I came home it was catch up time!

Catch up on:

Cuddles

Hugs

Kisses

Dishes

Laundry

more Cuddles

Beadwork

and more Hugs!

Now that I have all of those out of my system - at least for a few hours, I am going to spend the day creating and enjoying my quiet house - at least for a few hours!!

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I do want to show off another of my Aye's drawings. I am just so very impressed with her drawing. I am very creative, but I can NOT draw or paint! I have taken classes, gotten books and even had someone (my dad) who is a VERY talented pen and ink artist try to teach me. My daughter, however, is an amazing - SELF taught - artist. She looks through her books and sits and draws. I am so much in aah and envy of her! Isn't she talented?? Just AMAZING!

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Then there are the two new listings that I haven't show you yet! I just love them both!

Flowers are the Thing to Wear - Beadwoven Bracelet

Jade and Multi-Color Swarovski Crystal Delight Necklace Set

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For today, like I said, I am going to relax and enjoy the day. I WILL be doing some beading too!

Plant your feet firmly and let your heart have wings.

-unknown

Wonderful Wednesday 5/16/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 16 May 2012 09:35:00 +0000

I have such a busy week - once again! I am always surprised at how much I get done and that I still feel BEHIND! Is there a time when you actually catch up? Before you retire? Can I make it that long?? Oh well, I guess I have my beads, my kids - oh, that is where the stress comes from - and my wonderful hubby. Yep, LOVE THE BEADS!! ha ha ha :)

I did manage to get another listing done for today - and it is a great one! This bracelet took me SOOOO long to make. I did it free hand - without a pattern. You wouldn't think that is that hard, it is just diagonal stripes, right?? WELLLLLL, let me tell you, this one took forever. I can't even tell you how many times I had to 'back up' and re-do a section just because there was ONE color off!?!?! I made it VERY long so that I can adjust it to fit - it will look like a cuff when you wear it!! So, here it is!!!

The Waves of the Rainbow Beadwoven Peyote Cuff

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Now it is time for this Mom to show off some of my beautiful, wonderful, talented daughter's sketches..... I'll be showing one each day. Here is her Hydro Head - this one was for a school project!

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So, for today, that is all! I will leave you with this thought....

Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.

-Abraham Lincoln

Marvelous Monday 5/14/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:45:00 +0000

Yesterday was such a wonderful Mother's Day! I was able to relax and enjoy the day - yes, there were beads.... lots of beads!!

My Monster gave me a wonderful card and picture frame... and lots of kisses!!

Hubby got me these beautiful flowers....

And my beautiful Aye gave me a hand with EVERYTHING we did all day. And even more kisses!

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Today I will get the things I have finished over the past few days photographed and try to start listing them. But I did have a new Anklet to list today... it is a REALLY cute one! I just love this little bow! What do you think? Wouldn't that be cute on your ankle?

Pink Bow Swarovski Crystal Anklet

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Now, although I had a decent amount of sales over the weekend with this wonderful sale, I have been asked to extend it. I was asked by a couple of my fans to extend it until their payday, so here it is.... this has been extended until 5/21/12, but I will not be able to do it any longer than that. I really don't make much profit on each item - that is why my prices are so good - but I really want to sell more out of my studio, give you some great creations and also earn some more for some new supplies I would like to purchase! So, here you go, extended until 5/21/12!!

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For today I would like to leave you with this quote;

That best portion of a good man's life, his little nameless unremembered acts of kindness and love.

-William Wordsworth

Happy Mother's Day 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Sun, 13 May 2012 11:08:00 +0000

To all my friends, fans and family - Happy Mother's Day!

My wonderful kids!!!

My amazing Mother (When she was younger)!

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Remember, this sale can't last!!

Fabulous Friday 5/11/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Fri, 11 May 2012 09:46:00 +0000

Well, yesterday while I was cleaning up I had an epiphany! Yep, I sure did. For some reason I knew it was Mothers Day, but I really didn't realize it. NOW, I do! I suddenly thought of HOW many items I have in my studio and how much I would like a new set of tools for Mothers Day. So, here is what I thought up..... a WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN type of deal!

You, my wonderful fans and friends get 40% off any purchase that totals $40.00 or more. For me, I get to clear out some of my studio and buy some new tools and supplies. For everyone else, they get to watch as everyone snaps up my wonderful 'sparklies'!!!! So, WIN, WIN, WIN,WIN All the way around!!

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And yes, this even includes the new listing for today -

Savita the White Sun Goddess Beadwoven Necklace Set

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So, although it is SHORT, this post has some amazing news - with the sale - and fun. I will leave you with this word

LIVE!

Tantrum Thursday 5/10/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Thu, 10 May 2012 09:42:00 +0000

Although it is Tantrum Thursday I am just in to good of a mood to through a tantrum.... well, maybe not! How about a MINI one?

I have this customer that recently purchased something from me. She has ordered before, and each time there has been 'some type of issue' with either me or my creation. I am not sure why she orders from me, she never seems to be happy with me or what she gets. The color is always 'just a little but off' or the size is not quiet right for a 'perfect fit'. I know, you can't please everyone, but for some reason I just can't make her happy.

So, the problem is that she ordered something else. This time it is was custom order, rather expensive and a LOT to time to make. She paid me - my normal 1/2 down - we agreed on a design and I got started. about 1/2 way through she wanted to change the design.... it would require me to start over and buy new supplies - and told me if I couldn't change it she wanted to cancel the order and get her money back.

Now I have VERY clear policy about my custom orders and I know that most designers do, but where do you draw the line? I hate to loose a customer, I have to cover the costs I already have into the creation, I have a unhappy customer, AND I have a 1/2 finished 'customized' creation! Now, as far as my resolution with her, that is not really important, what is important is the message and standards you have with your custom orders.

Do you have a clear policy on custom orders? Are you upfront with your customers about what to expect? Do you communicate with your customers 'over and over' just to make sure they know that you are working on their item? Do you set a 'realistic' goal for the time it will take for you to make and ship the item?

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I have TWO new listings today, they are both soooo different from each other!

Here is the first listing -

A Tropical Rainforest You Can Wear Beadwoven Bracelet

And the second one -

Pink and Crystal Champagne Bracelet

I told you, totally different - but I just love them both! I would wear either one!

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And for a closing thought, I think this is appropriate;

The only power which can resist the power of fear is the power of love.

-Alan Stewart Paton

Wonderful Wednesday 5/9/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 09 May 2012 09:18:00 +0000

What a wonderful response I got received about my new earring creations - THANK YOU! I am always so encouraged by your comments! I went ahead and listed another pair for one of today new listings, they seem to be getting and even better reaction!!! What do you think?

The Sun of the Royal Queen Beadwoven Earrings

And then to continue the BLUE theme I also listing this new creation! I just love all the shades of blue that are in this necklace set!

Shades of Blue Have My Heart All in Swarovski Crystal Necklace Set

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Now, on to an amazing jacket that I won from Kiwi Stuff. I am still amazed that I actually won. I received this wonderful jacket a couple of days ago and have had to 'try it on' several times. It is sooooo comfortable and light. I can't wait to take it to camp this summer and be the ENVY of all the others who don't have anything even close. It is lightweight, very soft and comfortable and also fit perfectly! Thank you so much to Kiwi Stuff!!!!!

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And one more thing to 'show off' that I received. The other day I featured a friend and wonderful artist - Walk in the Woods llc. I featured this little notebook - and just had to have it! Well, it is now mine and it is just so cute and functional! I am SOOOO very impressed with the quality and attention to detail that she had to create this little book.

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And as a closing - something for all of us that create things with our own hands....

You cannot become or remain creative without solitude.

-Paul Tillich

Terrific Tuesday 5/8/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:30:00 +0000

Oh my, I had one of the most productive days yesterday that I have had in a LONG time. I was able to do the finish work on several pieces and I actually got time to take PHOTOS too! Again, PRODUCTIVE DAY!! I am so very proud of some of these creations.

One of the new techniques I have learned is how to do these 'little' Chaton's. I am having so much fun with them. They are basically the same as some of the LARGE centerpieces that I do, but on a MINI scale. The first couple of rows are done with 11o Delica's - meaning there are 11 beads per inch and the remaining rows are done with 14o Beads - meaning there are 14 beads per inch. Each earrings has been taking me about 1 1/2 hours - so about hours each....... once I get the design done. Several of them I have to 're-do' several times - there is a BIT of a learning curve (pardon the pun) to these little earrings!

So, tell me - honestly - what you think! I really want to know. Here is the first one's I am listing ( I have several pairs ready to go).

Pink and Silver Plated Beadwoven Swarovski Crystal Earrings

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Then there is this creation.... do you remember way back about a month ago I told you about the wonderful beads I received from Georgia Mountain Arts.....

What I may not have told you is that the Fused Glass Pendant over on the right was handmade by Ms. Peggy. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. The only down side, what to create around it. I felt like I just had to add a 'striking' color to the mix. So, I added copper seed beads.... here is what it turned out like....

So, once again I would like to thank Ms. Peggy from Georgia Mountain Arts for her great swap mix!

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So, with all that being said I will close for now and go back to my beading....I have even more to show you tomorrow!

All degrees of joy reside in the heart.

-Oswald Chambers

Marvelous Monday 5/7/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Mon, 07 May 2012 09:17:00 +0000

What a weekend. For the first time in a while I didn't have anything to do, any where to go, anything to worry about!! I had some order to finish up, laundry to wash and fold (UCK) and groceries to buy, but that was about it.... unless you count BEADING! I always try to find time to bead on the weekends, but this was a FULLY beading weekend! It was wonderful! I will spend some time today taking photos and start listing all the creations I made.... there are several wonderful ones!!!

I also got the idea to run a special over the weekend - free shipping (to the US or Canada) on my cell phone charms... it went over really well.... I think I make it even BIGGER!!

From now until May 14th - FREE SHIPPING on anything from my KRAFTY MAX ORIGINALS studio (to the US or CANADA). YEP... great Mother's day, hu?!?!

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Then there is this... an amazing review from a dear friend and another jewelry artist - thank you very much Kimber Flood from Reading with Bakin Goddess for the comments!!

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Now, it is off and 'creating' time with the CreationsColorChallengeGroup. This is a FUN challenge that ANYONE can participate in. The only 'rules' create and have fun! You do NOT have to have a studio, create for a living or even make something to sell.... the only thing you need to do is create something in RED & WHITE - this week and post it next week.... simple!! Come join us, it is very inspiring!

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For today I would like to leave you with this quote;

True love is not what you get - but what you sacrifice to give!

-Louis D. Izzo

Tantrum Thursday 5/3/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Thu, 03 May 2012 09:47:00 +0000

Oh boy, do I have a tantrum today....something that has been in the 'building' stage for a while.

People who copy other artists creations!

Yes, this has happened to me! Not very recently, but it just happened to a friend of mine and it brought up all the old feeling and 'meanness' I felt when this did happen to me. My friend is another jewelry artist and she creates very nice work. Much of it is wire wrapped and involves crystals and gemstones, so, it is quality and creative - and BEAUTIFUL! Recently a customer of hers sent her an email showing her a listing for another artist studio that was a dead match to one of her creations! Now this wasn't something that was inspired by my friends work, this was just about an exact replica - even the colors of wire and crystal were the same!!! When my friend confronted this other artist the comment was - I think you copied me!

Now I do know that there are so many people that do jewelry and so many styles that sometimes people come up with similar creations at about the same time, however, this was blatant. So, what to do???

Here is some of the best advice and information that I have found - it is by Inspirational Beading and although it focuses on beading, the theory is the same with almost every artistic industry.

Design Ethics for Beaders - Part One

Design Ethics for Beaders - Part Two

Please let me know what you think and if you have had this happen to you before.

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For a new listing I have this wonderful PURPLE DRAGONFLY set! YEP, two of my favorite things!!! What do you think?

Live Life to the Fullest Purple Dragonfly Necklace Set

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And there is still time to enter in the Give-A-Way over at Mom Does Reviews. Come on, I know you want to win something from my, I know you do!!

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And now, for a quote to close off this wonderful day;

To live long, it is necessary to live slowly.

-Cicero

Wonderful Wednesday 5/2/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 02 May 2012 08:56:00 +0000

Today is one of those days that I get to stay home and bead most of the day - so, for me, almost perfect! I have been working on such a variety of things lately, from simple Anklets to larger beadwoven pieces. I think that the variety keeps me going too!

Today I get to show off this wonderful necklace set that I made from my Grandmother's Stash. Even as I look at this one I am amazed at how perfectly I was able to match everything.... very eclectic!

Multi Color of Golden Love Necklace Set - from Grandmothers Stash

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Then, just to make my day perfect I found out that I was in this wonderful collection along with some other amazing beadweaving artists.... well, just see for yourself!

Passionate About Purple

Curated By: BonniesPlace

ArtFire.com

Handmade Soap

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Only one thing would make this better, if you entered into the give-a-way going on over at Mom Does Reviews of this beautiful necklace set. There are still a few days left, but you had better 'get a move on'.

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So, perfect 'sparkles'; perfect 'give-a-way'; perfect day of beading.... let's see, the closing word for today should be....

Perfect!

Terrific Tuesday 5/1/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Tue, 01 May 2012 09:32:00 +0000

Yesterday I spent the day catching up! It is amazing to me how quickly you can fall behind! I think I am just about ready for a vacation! Ya, RIGHT?!?! That would just mean more 'catch up' when we get back!!! :))) So, I am here, happy and full of life, beading my days away..... you know what, I AM on vacation - I don't think I really can complain!!

Yesterday I was able to make a few more things from my Grandmothers Stash - I'll list them later in the week. For today, the newest listing is

Sterling Silver Plated Dolphins and Swarovski Crystal Anklet

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I have also been working on some earring that I will try to finish later this week - they are Swarovski Crystals and beadwoven... they are turning out really nice! What do you think?

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Alright, there are still a few days left.... come see the review and give-a-way from Mom Does Reviews on this bracelet I made her....

and the necklace set I am giving away - it seem to be a big hit too....

So 'click on over'!! There are some great people to follow and daily entries you can do!

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For any of you looking for my featured artist, I have started to do in on my FaceBook Fan Page. The reason? It helps the people I feature get more notice! So check it out there everyday!!

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Today I leave you with this:

Kindess is like a rose, which though easily crushed and fragile, yet speaks a language of silent power.

-Frances J. Roberts.

Marvelous Monday 4/30/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:47:00 +0000

What a weekend!! Oh my it was so busy!! I has a Day Camp at the American Red Cross. 20 tweens and teens received training on Babysitting, First Aid and CPR. Talk about a wonderful was to teach your child about life, babysitting and growing up! These young adults are now trained and ready to take on the world - at least the world of babysitting!! P.S. My daughter, Aye, was one of those that went to the camp and passes!! You 'GO GIRL'!!

I was also able to work on some beadwork.... I can't wait to get a chance to list it later this week. I did manage to get one photographed and listed this morning - it is a simple and sparklie Anklet! Yep, it is getting to that 'summer' anklet season!!

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And did you know that the wonderful review and give-a-way from Mom Does Reviews is still going on? Yep, still time to enter! Here is the bracelet I made for her:

and the necklace set I am giving away - it seem to be a big hit too....

So 'click on over'!! There are some great people to follow and daily entries you can do!

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Now, for this week there is more beading and more fun! For today I'll leave you with this quote -

Love is never lost, if not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.

-Washington Irving

A Week in Review 4/23/12-4/29/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:23:00 +0000

Oh my goodness, this has been such a busy week! My little charms for the iPhone and other Smart Phones have taken off like crazy!! I am so amazed at how well they are selling!! I am already on my next order of plugs!!! Even when I am out people see the one I have on my phone - Purple and Dragonflies - and they ask me about them. I guess adding 'BLING' to your phone is back in fashion!!!

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I have also been busy promoting the wonderful review and give-a-way from Mom Does Reviews. I am so glad that she liked the bracelet I made for her:

and the necklace set I am giving away seem to be a big hit too....

You still have time to enter, so 'click on over'!! There are some great people to follow and daily entries you can do!

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And last but not least are all the wonderful things I created this past week! I know I was busy, I know I was 'running around', but I still took time to bead. For me that is my relaxation and the one thing that calms me down more than anything else! I hope to work on a couple of new creations this weekend too!

I hope that you all have a wonderful weekend and they are are able to do - whatever it is - that makes you feel calm and happy!

Fabulous Friday 4/27/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:27:00 +0000

Yesterday was yet another busy day, but that is OK, it was less 'wild'!! I don't mind busy, I don't mind hectic, but I really do like my schedule!! I know that means I have an 'A type' personality....well, some people call it something else, but we'll go with 'A type', ok??!!! :)

But, I did manage to get something new listed for today - and it is another one from my Grandmother's Stash!! What do you think? I just love it! ALL the beads are from her stash....oh, thank you Grandma!!

Tooth of Green Envy Necklace Set - From My Grandmothers Stash

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And then there is the Give-A-Way over at Mom Does Reviews! I think it will be worth your 'few moments' of time - here is the set I am giving away...

and here is what I made for her....

Not bad, hu??

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Today I am leaving you with a great quote -

Be glad of life, because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the starts.

-Henry van Dyke

Tantrum Thursday 4/26/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:33:00 +0000

This has been a 'whirl wind' week so far. Did you see all the new things yesterday? Oh, well, there is more!! I have started a partnership with Many Horses. I am going to be selling some select items through them. I have to say, working with this company has been amazing! Not only has there been GREAT communication, but the the real bonus, the friendly people! Thank you so very much for making this so wonderful!

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Then there is this... my swap mix that came yesterday from Beady Eyed Bunny. I just can't believe how beautiful these beads are.... my 'creative juices are flowing' in overdrive right now!!

And some of those were made by her!! Oh my, I can't wait!!! Please visit some of her sites..... Here is her post about our swap! http://www.beadyeyedbunny.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/international-swap.html

http://www.leahcurtis.co.uk/
www.beadyeyedbunny.blogspot.co.uk
http://www.flickr.com/photos/46895701@N03/sets/72157624078982246/

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Oh ya, and then on top of that my beautiful daughter got hit right beside her eye - trip to the clinic!!

She's fine, a black eye and one H-LL of a headache, but she'll be fine!

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Don't forget about my review and give-a-way with Mom Does Reviews - it will be well worth your time!!

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Not enough? You really need to see all the new designs I listed yesterday of the Cell Phone Charms. They turned out so great!! They are a bit MORE than the first one's, but I am still making both! It is simple, go HERE and you'll get to see them all!

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Enough? Well, with all this, I am going to end with this thought (I hope to use it myself)....

Slow Down and Relax!

Wonderful Wednesday 4/25/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:31:00 +0000

Oh my goodness!! If you follow me regularly you'll notice that there wasn't a Terrific Tuesday post yesterday. I had meant for there to be, but 'life gets in the way'! I am not sure how everything got away from me, but it did!! Oh well, that just means that I have more to tell you about today, and OH BOY, do I have a LOT to tell you about!!

First, let me show off this amazing review I received from Mom Does Reviews. When she contacted me about having her do a review the first thing I looked at was her 'numbers'. Here is what she sent me - Mom Does Reviews is ranked 50,851 in the world, according to Alexa.com. I have over 9400 Facebook Fans, 6000 Twitter Followers and 4000 Google plus followers. Now, for any of you (us) that have worked on our marketing together....this is amazing! Her numbers are something I 'inspire' to have!

So, of course I said yes! I asked her some basic questions - that I ask all my custom order clients - and we were off and running. She told me that she loved pink and purples and 'sparkles'....well, you know I just HAD to make her something with Swarovski Crystals, right?? Here is the bracelet that I made her:

And I guess, from her review, she liked it!! :))) She LOVED it!! Please, go read her review and check out the give-a-way she is running.... for me - just look at what you could win!

So go, read her review - please - and enter to win this Swarovski Crystal necklace set!

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Now, off to the next 'item'! I have gotten the studs in for my Cell Phone Charms. So, off today to bead up the orders I already have and to make some more! I have some 'ideas' for some of the new ones... keep a watch out! If you still want one, click on the photo, my custom orders always get made and shipped FIRST!

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Alright, just haven't gotten enough yet? Well, here is my new listing for today.... it is an ANKLET! Yep, Gold Leaves Anklet is just one in the several I have made lately. This one may not have any crystals, but it moves and flows! What do you think?

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I think I'll save some of my news for tomorrow.... I have to keep you coming back?!?! :) So here is what we ended up with, a review, a give-a-way, a new listing and follow up on custom order and a current listing.... I think that will do for today! BUT, come back tomorrow and I will have some OTHER news for you!! YEP... MORE!

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As a last word, I'll leave you with this quote;

Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together.

-Geothe

Marvelous Monday 4/23/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:13:00 +0000

Today seems like such a perfect day! After such a HOT spring, the temperature has dropped - even if it is only for a few days - and we had rain over the weekend!! The flowers are in bloom, the air is crisp and my house is full of BEADS.... ok, today is perfect!!

I did list something new on Friday - that will actually be today's newest listing - and it has gotten some great reviews already! Yes, it is another from my Grandmother's Stash!

Earthy Bird Locket Necklace Set - From Grandmothers Stash

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And I have to say, the reception of these 'little charms' has been amazing! I still have some that are ready for purchase in my ArtFire Studio. These will be custom ordered when I get the new studs in - they should be in today or tomorrow - and then sent right out! I am still getting some question about WHERE they go on the phone. They 'plug' into your earphone jack! Yep, it is that simple!

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Today's featured studio is - cnewcomb. This amazing artist creates some of the most beautiful items with wood. There were many different creations that I had a hard time choosing, I finally picked this beautiful Seam Ripper - mostly because of its practicality and beauty. With the love and support of his family and friends this amazing artist has turned his 'hobby' into something 'so much more'. You really should go look at his WHOLE studio! Remember, support handcrafted artists if you can, it will reward EVERYONE involved!

http://www.facebook.com/cnewcomb…

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And for a closing thought I would like to leave you with this quote;

A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.

-unknown

Fabulous Friday 4/20/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:33:00 +0000

For those of you that follow me regularly you know all about my Grandmother's Stash that I received from my mom after my Grandmother's passing around Christmas time last year. I have yet to take photos of EVERYTHING, but I have been going through the TEN, yes, I said TEN boxes of STASH that I received! I want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to not only my Grandmother for wanting me to have it and for my mother who has taken the time to pack and send it all to me.

The three of us - a couple of Chistma's a go!

My Mother and Grandmother

Every time I touch something from my Grandmother's Stash I have such great memories of her. She and I shared a passion for most things 'sparklie' and ALL things jewelry! I love the idea that my creations that are coming from her Stash are going to be going out 'into the world' as new creations for others to wear - and I know she would like it too!

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So, here is today's newest listing.... yes, it is from Grandmother's stash!

Beauty in Pink Necklace Set

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On another note I have ordered more of the studs to make these great cell phone charms that iPhones and other Smart Phones. I have listed a 'custom order' item in my studio so that you can order them now for me to make when I get them in. I am hoping they are in at the beginning of the week, so if you order now you can have yours in hand - as early as late next week!!

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Today's featured studio is - laserlace. Can you believe this art is carved in clay and colored with acrylics, metallic powders, and metal foils? The dimension and colors are just unbelievable! It is easy to see that each of her creations are full of her passion for art and life. Please go check out all these great works of art!

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For a closing thought I will leave you with this quote:

When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece.

-John Ruskin

Tantrum Thursday 4/19/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:57:00 +0000

It is funny how all throughout the week I throw these little 'mini' tantrums around the house and then when it comes time to write about a tantrum I can't think of anything to write about! I have chosen one of you today though, it is relevant to many of my fellow crafters/artisans and home run business owners.

When someone asks me what I do - I have come to say "I run my own company". This has come from many years of saying "I am a work from home mom" which got me that little 'I understand nod'. Until my son was born over 7 years ago I worked in Corporate America. I was very active, had a great job and a very large network of friends, clients and business partners. Then, I decided to stay home and dedicate my time to my own company. My value in the work force dropped from maybe a 10 to a low 2 over night! I am not sure how this happens.

No, I do not and never have home schooled my kids. For the most part (once my son got big enough) I put my kids in day care! That is right, I stayed home and still payed for day care.... why? Because I am running my own business, not just sitting around watching TV every day.

Most people say that crafters/artisan can't make a living at their trade - and most are right. I would NEVER have been able to do this without the love, financial and emotional support of my hubby and family. I am one of the lucky ones that has a hubby that not only has a great job (two actually) but also has benefits that come with that job for the entire family. This means that I do not have to get separate health benefits. This has added to the ability for me to stay at home.

Now I also contribute my children being able to go to after school activities, weekend camps, birthday parties and even the park - almost daily - because I am 'staying at home'. They would NEVER be able to do most of those things when I was working, they were in day care all day.

I have a routine that I follow every day. Now that I have started working outside the home (part time) it has really thrown my schedule off. I am not sure if I even knew how much time I put into the company until I started taking some of that time away. I love the outside job, and it is perfect for me, but it is amazing how I have to learn - all over again - to schedule my day and my life. If I thought I was busy before......

So, what do you say to those who ask - what do you do?

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Yesterday I posted these wonderful new creations - Cell Phone Charms for iPhones and other Smart Phones - and sold the first two I listed almost before I could list them. I have 3 more still up and more 'studs' ordered. I just love how these turned out. Yes, I am using one myself! Mine is PURPLE, what else could it be?

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I also listed a new creation for the CreationsColorChallengeGroup. Our colors this week were Red and Purple... here it is!

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Today closing words are simple -

Be Compassionate

Wonderful Wednesday 4/18/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:05:00 +0000

Today is a wonderful day!! I am sorry, but my post will be short and sweet! I have a day off, at home, alone with my beads.... have to bead!! I did do a new listing, yes, another one from my Grandmother's Stash.... I can't tell you how many wonderful creations I have going!!

China Lady Having a Quiet Moment Necklace Set

For all of you who are obsessed and possessed with your craft will understand, today is for beading!!

Terrific Tuesday 4/17/12

noreply@blogger.com (Krafty Max Originals) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:39:00 +0000

Yesterday I told you about Monsters trip to his friends birthday party, well, today I get to show off photos!! I just love these. Do you think he had fun? I only wish I was there to enjoy the day with him - thank you Kris from ApronsbyMeMe for making his day so wonderful!

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Yesterday I also told you that I would reveal what I made with the beads that Ms. Bonnie sent me, well, here we go! First, the beads - just as a reminder!

And here is what I made!!!

Emeline's Delicate Beauty is Revealed - Beadwoven Necklace Set

So, what do you think??

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And now it only seems fitting for me to feature Ms. Bonnie. Here creations are so very beautiful!! Over the past few months I have gotten to know this terrific lady and I actively watch her ArtFire Studio - BonniesPlace. Here is my favorite item that she still has listed...

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And now, for a closing thought...

Not what we have,

but what we use;

not what we see,

but what we choose -

these are the things

that mar or bless the

sum of human happiness.