UpcycleFever

UpcycleFever has Moved!

2013-11-23T13:54:00.002-05:00

Find Marcia's new blog, links, and posts at WayfarerPrints.Blogspot.com !

It's been fun here, but we have officially moved on!

Shop Anniversary Contest!

2013-03-10T12:03:00.001-04:00

I opened up my Etsy shop UpcycleFever last March and to celebrate, it's CONTEST time! My shop has definitely grown and I've learned SO many things this past year. I'm having so much fun creating things and figuring out ways to upcycle items into awesome wearables.

So, here's what you have to do! Very simple really! Comment below with EITHER your favorite upcycling DIY project idea (link or quick explanation) OR the best advice you would give to a new Etsy shop owner!

The winner will receive a pair of studs and a bottle cap key chain (of their choice), and I will make new blog posts with all the coolest replies!

Congratulations to Erin Lee! Please email upcyclefever@gmail.com for details on how to redeem your prizes!

March Shop of the Month: PearlReef

2013-03-08T10:40:00.000-05:00

Our March feature, PearlReef has tons of handmade upcycled bike tube& pearl jewelry. Check out some of her simple & sweet insights. You can also check out their Facebook fan page.

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?

I always enjoy creating handmade items, they make my family and friends smile. I've been making and teaching jewelry classes for 7 years and I just opened my Etsy shop last year.

Where does your inspiration come from?

In 2009 I spent 9 months and made a trip around the world. I got a lot of inspiration in my trip and I'm sure it's influencing my jewelry designs.

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created?

I made a wedding necklace for a woman 5 years ago. She designed her own dress and couldn't find any necklace that could match it. I made a unique pearl necklace for her that not only fits the dress, but also framed her face very well so she looked stunning. She cried when she put it on, and I was SO happy for her!

Besides creating things, what do you do?

I travel, I cook, and I write software programs!

What is the most important advice anyone has given you?

Be careful with super glue, your fingers can be glued together.

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?

Be creative and be patient!

March Happenings

2013-02-26T13:50:00.000-05:00

There are some uber cool events going on in March! Catch me at Big Bang Bazaar in Maitland & Night Owl Market in Fort Lauderdale! Check back every once in awhile for updates & additions.

3/1 - Food in Motion
Time: 5-12am Address: 800 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Details - FREE Beer & Admission, Food Trucks, Food Market, Vintage Vendors,

3/2-3 - City Wide Market Fort Lauderdale
Time: 9-5pm Address: 800 NE 8th St Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Vintage, locally made, edibles & more. FREE admission & parking

3/7 - Dr. Sketchy's with Miss Lizzie Rae
Time: 7-10pm Address: 608 South Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Details - $10 admission, Bring your drawing materials to sketch live models

3/8 - Girls Vs. Boys Art Show Opening at Bear and Bird Gallery
Time: 7-10pm Address: 4566 N. University Drive, Lauderhill, Florida 33351

Details - 4 boys vs 4 girls in an art faceoff, beer & cupcake tasting, and more

3/9 - 90s Art show at Green Room

Time: 10p-5am Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Details - Music, videos, & art. Submissions due 3/7

3/10 - An Evening With The Onion
Time: 7:30pm Address: The Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale
Details - The Onion, will bring its parody-news broadcasts for a live performance

3/9 - Wynwood Art Walk *Every 2nd Saturday

Time: 6:30-11:00pm Address: 36 Street to 20 Street, NE 2 Ave to NW 6th Ave

Details - Free admission to all galleries, local craft vendors, & food trucks!

3/23 - Big Bang Bazaar "NERD is the word"***

Time: 11-6pm Address: 641 S Maitland Ave, Maitland, Florida 32751

Details - Indie Arts, Craft, & Vintage Bazaar.

3/24 - Downtown Open Market *Every Month

Time: 7-11pm Address: 308 S Federal Hwy, Boca Raton, Fl

Details - Local artists, crafters, specialty food, & other businesses

3/26 - Brickell Art Walk *Every Last Tuesday

Time: 5-10:30pm Address: Mary Brickell Village Area

Details - Contemporary artists, avant garde curators, etc

3/29 - Cos Play Friday *Every Last Friday

Time: 10pm-4am Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Cos players welcome! Music & drink specials all night

3/30 - F.A.T. Village Art Walk *Every Last Saturday

Time: 10-4:00pm Address: NW 1st Ave & NW 5th St., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301

Details - Free admission to exhibitions, galleries, community theaters, & more!

3/30 - Night Owl Market***
Time: 5-11pm Address: 541 NW 1st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Details - FREE admission & drinks. Indie Local Vendors. Music. Food. Art

Photography Tips!

2013-02-19T10:07:00.000-05:00

Thanks to friendly & wise Etsyians, I am chock full of photography advice. I just bought a new camera, and plan on learning how to use it to makes my photos more professional. Until then, I shall share some of the quick tips I've gotten!

The more basic your camera, the more reliant you are on perfect lighting conditions

Complicated cameras give you more control, but take the time to practice!

"Bridge" cameras could be better for new learners, with a lot of features and lower prices

Don't ever use built in camera flash!

You want soft white light for product photos; go outdoors on an overcast day, indoors when the sun isn't to harsh, or invest in special daylight bulbs

It takes more time to clean up a mess and not make one, a photo program can only do so much! Get your photos done right the first time, before trying to edit away

Good lighting and learning your camera settings should amount to minimal tweaking in a photo imaging program

For product photos, use a plain background that doesn't distract!

Amazing Links
Kouture Crochet's Photography Tips with Links
DigitalRev YouTube Channel
Digital Photography Review
CNET Digital Camera Reviews

Last Minute DIY Valentine's Gifts

2013-02-13T09:16:00.000-05:00

Make Your Own Canvas Portrait

Whether you want to make something quick for your sweetheart, mother, best friend, or with your kids, here's a couple of cute & easy DIY ideas. Get to crafting, you're cutting it close!

DIY Lavender & Chamomile Bath Melts

Robot Valentines

Lollipop Flowers

Yarn Heart Art

Happy Valentine's Day, don't forget to spread the love to everyone you care about!

February Shop Feature: All That is Counted

2013-02-06T09:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome! Welcome to Lena Chinners from the unique shop All That is Counted. The fellow Floridian stopped by for a chat, and peek at her items. Don't forget to show her love with some comments!

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?

I have been doing counted cross stitch for over 40 years and have given the stitched items to family and friends for years so my daughter suggested that I try and sell some on Etsy... she has a shop also called Luckiiarts.

Where does your inspiration come from?
I only stitch what I would enjoy having in my own home. What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created? I did a small town street for myself . It is approx. 60" long and only 12" high. It has small houses, shops, a doctors office, trees, fountain and park, paved sidewalk and a small road running the entire length. I also made the frame in a woodworking class I was taking out of oak floor boards. It hangs above the large opening between my dining room and Florida room.
Besides creating things, what do you do?
I am fortunate in that I am retired. I was a bookkeeper in a High School for many years.
What is the most important advice anyone has given you?
Only make things you would use yourself or would be proud to give as gifts.

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?
Be patient, go to other shops, see what is out there, follow people who's items you like, and appreciate. You also need to promote yourself to a certain degree, you need to let people see your items and not just wait for them to find you. Additionally, it is really important to tag your items with the right descriptions....and most important have fun!

February Events; Bazaars, Walks, Fairs, & more

2013-02-02T00:10:00.000-05:00

Market at Memorial Hospital Miramar *Every Sunday
Time: 9-2:30pm Address: 1901 Southwest 172 Avenue, Miramar, FL
Details - FREE Admission & Parking. Full of local produce & other organic products

2/2 - Retro Indie Market

Time: 11-6pm Address: 1010 S Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach, FL

Details - $5 admission, fresh vintage & handmade finds!

2/2-3 - City Wide Market Fort Lauderdale

Time: 9-5pm Address: 800 NE 8th St Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Vintage, locally made, edibles & more. FREE admission & parking.

2/2 - NOBE art walk

Time: 7-11pm Address: 3320 NE 32nd St Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Handmade items, live music, access to galleries & exhibits

2/8 - Dwntwn Concert Series

Time: 6pm Address: 301 North Biscayne Boulevard Miami, Florida

Details - FREE festival, farmer's market, craft venders, beer garden, concerts

2/10 - Chili Cook Off at Pinecrest Gardens

Time: 12-5:00pm Address: 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, FL

Details - $5 admission, Rides, live music, line dancing, kids crafts, etc

1/04-2/09 - Nerdcore Fandom Group Art Show

Time: 7-10:00pm Address: 2716 S Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, Fl 33405

Details - Art celebrating video games, Star Wars, Anime, 80s shows, etc

2/9 - Wynwood Art Walk *Every 2nd Saturday

Time: 6:30-11:00pm Address: 36 Street to 20 Street, NE 2 Ave to NW 6th Ave

Details - Free admission to all galleries, local craft vendors, & food trucks!

2/16-17 - Margate International Street Festival

Time: 12:00pm Address: Margate Blvd & 441

Details - Free admission, carnival rides, food, dancers, car show, arts & crafts, etc

2/17 - Downtown Open Market *Every Month

Time: 7-11:00pm Address: 308 S Federal Hwy, Boca Raton, Fl

Details - Local artists, crafters, specialty food, & other businesses

2/22 - Cos Play Friday *Every Last Friday

Time: 10-4:00am Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Cos players welcome! Music & drink specials all night

2/23 - F.A.T. Village Art Walk *Every Last Saturday

Time: 10-4:00pm Address: NW 1st Ave & NW 5th St., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301

Details - Free admission to exhibitions, galleries, community theaters, & more!

2/23 - Taste of Miami Lakes Festival

Time: 11-7:00pm Address: Downtown Miami Lakes, main street

Details - FREE entertainment, live music, kids activities, giveaways & more

2/24 - Indie Craft Bazaar at Revolution Live

Time: 12-5:00pm Address: 100 SW 3rd ave Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Details - Indoors with local artists & crafters, plus activities & drink specials

2/26 - Brickell Art Walk *Every Last Tuesday

Time: 5-10:30pm Address: Mary Brickell Village Area

Details - Contemporary artists, avant garde curators, etc

Check back for changes & inform me of errors or broken links!

American Horror Story!

2013-01-25T23:39:00.001-05:00

My latest tv show obsession deserves some Etsy love.

Featured!!

2013-01-21T21:10:00.002-05:00

My items are being featured in giveaway from Rachybop on YouTube! There's a (worldwide) contest for four of my different awesomely upcycled bottle cap earrings & necklaces!

Here's the link! You have until next Sunday (1/27)!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9RFlZUhOA0

Amazing Repurposed Homes!!

2013-01-12T12:15:00.000-05:00

Okay, so maybe this isn't exactly a DIY craft post, but hey, we're in the spirit of upcycling! Airbnb picks made an awesome list of 29 repurposed rentals! Here are a few. Commence the droolfest of beautiful homes! Maybe you'll get an idea or two.

Converted Firehouse

French Watchtower

Converted Gas Station

Ukraine Dance Hall

Box Factory Loft

Repurposed Houseboat

January Shops of the Month: ConversationGlass

2013-01-07T21:46:00.001-05:00

Welcome the family owned shop ConversationGlass from Dallas, TX. They've got some insights to share and of course link for you to check out (Facebook Pinterest& Twitter). Yay Etsy! Buy local & handmade! Better yet, upcycled! ;D

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items? We're a family business - my wife, my daughter and myself. We found a way to teach our daughter that business can have a conscience through our bottle crafting! We take bottles destined for landfills and make awesome glassware and housewares from them. The process from start to finish is quite fun. From finding just the right bottles, to cutting them into something reusable and fun.

Where does your inspiration come from? My inspiration comes primarily from having a family that likes to eat regularly! All kidding aside, we are passionate about living responsibly. We know that there are many things on this planet that are renewable. As a family that's felt the effects of industrial outsourcing and labor expendability, we sought a way to find our own way. And this way had to harm none - a business with a conscience.

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created? Our most memorable item so far has been a bottle hand-etched by my 14 year old daughter. Getting and keeping our daughter involved and excited about the process can be a challenge. With typical teenage reluctance, she dragged a bit at first, but now she gets excited, too when we complete glassware sets and make sales. Recently, she designed (by hand) a Dr Who Tardis from a Bombay Sapphire bottle. Impressive work that brought her mucho satisfaction!

Besides creating things, what do you do? Aside from our shop, I am a stay at home Dad that works part time in software sales. My partner and wife is a veterinary technician full time. We spend most of our free time catering to our 3 dogs - Arwen, Nyxie, and Fenway.

What is the most important advice anyone has given you? The best advice I've received in two-fold. First, provide the best customer service you possibly can. When looking for handmade items, people want to feel special. They can get poor customer service at Wal-Mart. Second, don't be discouraged by hard work. You determine where your shop goes. I think sharing this advice with other sellers is my best advice. Pay it forward, so to speak.

January Crafty Events & Artsy Happenings

2013-01-04T20:26:00.000-05:00

Lined it up for the New Year! Trying to get into Night Owl Market on the 26th.

1/04-2/09 - Nerdcore Fandom Group Art Show

Time: 7-10:00pm Address: 2716 S Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, Fl 33405

Details - Art celebrating video games, Star Wars, Anime, 80s shows, etc

1/12 - Wynwood Art Walk *Every 2nd Saturday

Time: 6:30-11:00pm Address: 36 Street to 20 Street, NE 2 Ave to NW 6th Ave

Details - Free admission to all galleries, local craft vendors, & food trucks!

1/18-20 - Animate Miami by Florida Supercon

Time: 2-3:00am* (on Fri) Address: 711 NW 72nd Ave, Miami, Fl 33126

Details - Anime, Animation, & Cosplay Convention. Don't miss 3 days of fun.

1/26 - Revel on The Block at F.A.T. Village

Time: 2-11:00pm Address: NW 1st Ave & NW 5th St., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301

Details - A catalyst to connect community; food trucks, live music, arts & more

1/26 - F.A.T. Village Art Walk *Every Last Saturday

Time: 7-11:00pm Address: NW 1st Ave & NW 5th St., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301

Details - Free admission to exhibitions, galleries, community theaters, & more!

1/26 - Night Owl Market at F.A.T. Village

Time: 5-11:00pm Address: NW 1st Ave & NW 5th St., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301

Details - Free alcohol, craft & arts vendors, vintage dealers, & more

1/29 - Brickell Art Walk *Every Last Tuesday

Time: 5-10:30pm Address: Mary Brickell Village Area

Details - Contemporary artists, avant garde curators, etc

As always, check back often for detail changes & new additions!

Eco-Holidays - How to Recycle Xmas Cards!

2012-12-28T13:41:00.003-05:00

If you're not running around with a chicken with its head cutoff trying to spend your gift cards, hold the phones and check out these simple & awesome crafty ideas for recycling holiday cards.

Holiday Card Ornaments

Christmas Cards into Gift Tags

Holiday Card Decor

Framed Christmas Card Art

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Men!!

2012-12-17T11:47:00.000-05:00

'A Gift Guide for Men' by DPTsewinmachine

A last minute gift guide to get your guy something special. Why are men so hard to shop for anyway! Sheesh!

Geek Cup Coffee, 15 oz.... InqSquad $20.00	Mens Bear Punch t-shirt... sharpshirter $21.00	The Three Bears: Handma... GiveAHootPets $55.00
Circuit Board Computer ... ScatterbrainT... $30.00	Clap Trap Borderlands V... StirTheatreTs... $16.00	Star Wars Chewbacca Chi... Chiblets $30.00
Red, White and Legend -... BLENDEDimages $75.00	Hand-drawn, hand-made c... geekvintageuk $8.99	Batman and joker painti... HandmadeByAAA $32.00
Batman/Joker Necklace CheckedRetros... $5.00	Handmade Upcycled Gas C... EclecticElect... $115.00	Video Game Organizer fo... mjcritterandc... $19.99
Vintage French Apple Cr... LondonPalletC... $150.00	Scrabble Tile Cuff Link... writeaboutit $15.00	Recycled Starbucks Coff... writeaboutit $3.50
Mens ring size US10 ind... IMNIUM $85.00

Treasury tool by StylishHome.

Shops of The Month: Seventy1Percent

2012-12-16T20:59:00.001-05:00

The 2nd shop of the month is run by the dynamic duo John & Rebecca. Thanks to the owners of the shop Seventy1Percent, for sharing their two cents. Be sure to check out their Twitter, Facebook, and website!

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items? I lost my job. Rebecca told me to "Seas the Day" and go for it. I had always had a dream to create my own tees. She told me to use this negative and turn it into a positive.

Where does your inspiration come from? The initial inspiration was a love for the ocean and its beauty. We are also inspired by other water related activities, sea life, and our customers.

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created? A super cool tee customized for a rock band.

Besides creating things, what do you do? We are a husband and wife team who love to surf, bike, do yoga, and enjoy life.

What is the most important advice anyone has given you? My mom said not to be scared. She said it was F.E.A.R. "False Evidence Appearing Real."

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other Etsy sellers? Go for it with your full heart! Create and be proud of what you do. If you fall, get back up and keep moving.

Shops of the Month: Cyndie Smith Designs

2012-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Virtual round of applause for our first Etsy shop feature for the month of December. Fellow Team FEST member and Floridian, Cyndie from Cyndie Smith Designs stops by for a chat. You can also find her on Facebook and on Blogger.

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?
I've been creative all my life and dabbled in a few mediums, like pottery and painting. But when I took my first metalsmith lesson, I was hooked and knew I'd found my place!

Where does your inspiration come from?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature but a couple of series grew from emotional baggage. That was actually some of my best work, so I guess there's some truth to the old saying about tortured artists!

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created?
My life cuff, which is also my avatar. It was created in honor of a friend who died too young from breast cancer. The cuff told a story of loss and love. I made so many custom for other folks, telling their stories, that I had to stop because it was emotionally draining.

Besides creating things, what do you do?
I love boating, growing Orchids and bicycling.

What is the most important advice anyone has given you?
Give thanks for all you have.

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?
Don't give up! Slow times can be discouraging so use that time to improve your shop. That way you'll be ready for the next up cycle of sales!

December Craft Shows & Happening

2012-12-02T22:43:00.000-05:00

Upcoming events! I'll be vending at the Indie Craft Bazaar on 12/16!

12/04/12 - PAWS Holiday Shopping Bazaar
Time: 10-3:00pm Address: 1725 Southeast 12th Street, Fort Lauderdale
Details - Vendors, drinks, & light bites benefiting Humane Society of Broward County

12/07/12 - 1:1 Super 8 Cinema Soirée

Time: 7-10:00pm Address: two locations IWAN & Poor House

Details -Film, Food, Drink, Music

12/08/12 - Wynwood Art Walk *Every 2nd Saturday

Time: ~7-11:00pm Address: 36 Street to 20 Street, NE 2 Ave to NW 6th Ave

Details - Free admission to all galleries, local craft vendors, & food trucks!

12/08/12 - FreedomEXPOSED

Time: 7-11:30pm Address: 450 NW 27th St. Miami, FL 33127
Details - Live interactive art experience with a handmade vendor showcase

12/14/12 - Smash-Con

Time: 10pm Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Details - Comic con event with Music, comics, art, crafts, baked goods, & more

12/15/12 - Holiday Trunk Show
Time: 12-6pm Address: 2716 S Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach
Details - Local artists & crafters, FREE cookies & hot cocoa

12/15/12 - Cosmic Cheer Holiday Market & Musical

Time: 7-12am Address: IWAN 810 NE 4 Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Details - Play, Bands, Craft Vendors, Art, Treats & Drinks, Fun

12/16/12 - The Market at Memorial Hospital Miramar *Every Sunday
Time: 9:00-2:30pm Address: 1901 Southwest 172 Avenue, Miramar, FL
Details - FREE Admission & Parking. Chock full of local produce & organic products. This date will have Santa Claus.

12/16/12 - Indie Craft Bazaar *** I'll be vending here!!

Time: 12-5pm Address: 100 SW 3rd Ave, Ft Lauderdale

Details - Goodie bags for 1st 100 guests! An independent art & handmade festival.

12/16/12 - Christmas Coffeehaus

Time: 2-5pm Address: Undergrounds Coffeehaus 3020 N Federal Highway, Ft Lauderdale

Details - Christmas crafts & other wares,

12/22/12 - Holiday Shop & Adopt

Time: 10-5pm Address: Petco Boynton Beach

Details - Handmade vendors, Santa pet pictures, book signing, & more

12/22/12 - Santa-Con Art Show

Time: 10-3am Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale

Details - Holiday pub crawl stop, post apocalypse Santa art

12/28/12 - Quentin Tarantino Art Show

Time: 10-1am Address: 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale

Details - Music, Art, Burlesque performances

This list is often updated thru out the month!!! Stay posted!

DIY Craft Booth Displays

2012-11-28T17:51:00.000-05:00

Its high time holiday shopping season! Too busy to go and snag some displays? Too cheap to shell out cash for your craft booth? Pressed for time? Check out these easy peasy ways to DIY for your next indie craft bazaar.

Necklace Display = Grab a yard sale sign, fold it over & glue in place, paint the other side!

DIY & Customizable Table Banner = Grab some wood and chalkboard paint and you're set!


Ring Display = Grab an old box, glue foam inside & slice it, tuck & cover with fabric!

Necklace/Bracelet Display = cover paper towel rolls with denim and glue to cardboard!

Detailed instructions for making a Ring Display and Necklace/Bracelet Display

Here's some more ideas from my "Presentation is Key" board on Pinterest!

DIY Rolling Coat Rack on Design Sponge

Ring Holder tutorial on Toasted Coconut

Easy DIY Jewelry Displays on Squidoo

Paint Chip Jewelry Card on Itsy Bitsy Paper

Decoupage Comic Book Shoes

2012-11-21T10:05:00.000-05:00

I finally decided to cash in some more Pinterest ideas and starting making comic book shoes. If you don't feel like buying them from my shop or other Etsy sellers, you can DIY!! Just cut strips, paint the shoes with modge podge, and gloss over when the whole shoe is covered. FYI my first try took me two hours!

What You Need

Newspaper to cover your surface
Brushes
Modge Podge (there are different types, I used puzzle saver)
Comic Books
Scissors
Shoes of your choice
Extras - glitter, paint, other embellishments & decor

Some other ideas for revamping old shoes
Magazine Collage Shoes on Stars for Streetlights
Floral Fabric Boots on A Beautiful Mess
DIY Sparkle Glitter Boots on Sprinkles in Springs
Painted Pink Neon Shoes on Angel in the North

Shops of The Month: Untwisted Sister

2012-11-16T08:18:00.000-05:00

Welcome fellow team FEST member Terri, from the online Etsy shop Untwisted Sister!

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?

After I learned to do wire wrapping, realized I was actually pretty good at it. I couldn't possibly wear everything I made!

Where does your inspiration come from?

Often it comes from my students. They might ask me how to do something or in class someone makes a mistake I have to fix and end up with 'happy accidents'.

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created?

My Egyptian bracelet with a twist which was created as a 'happy accident'.

Besides creating things, what do you do?

I'm an avid Ladies doubles tennis player. I was president of our County League with over 1800 members for 2 years and currently captain a team.

What is the most important advice anyone has given you?

Treat your customers the way you'd want to be treated.

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other etsy sellers?

If you enjoy what you're doing you will be successful, even if it doesn't make you wealthy.

Check out all her links, and feel free to comment below

Etsy Shop

Facebook Page

Easy Wood Crafts!

2012-11-14T09:43:00.001-05:00

Holiday season is here! Time to stock up on pinterest ideas and DIY gift ideas! I made these simple gifts last year for my family, and they loved them!! Whether you're a regular Picasso or just a good scribbler, you can make something nice.

What you need

Acrylic Paint
Paint brushes
Wood photo frame, jewelry box, planks, etc
String for hanging
Hot glue or screw to attach string
Stencils (or you can DIY some!)

Some Other Ideas

Weathered Beach Signs

Painted Wood Blocks

Wood & Branches Wall Art

Wooden Frames & Prints

Handprint Wood Plaques

Shops of The Month: Just4UWearables

2012-11-04T12:48:00.000-05:00

Our first feature for November is a fellow Floridian & Team FEST member from Miami, FL. Welcome Rosemarie from Just4UWearables, and check out her links at the bottom!

When did you know you wanted to create and sell handmade items?

After I learned how to crochet and I made a crochet dress as a gift for someone, my sister encouraged me to sell my creations.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Everywhere!

What’s the most memorable custom item you’ve created?

A poncho, hat and mitten set for my niece.

Besides creating things, what do you do?

I love to decorate, entertain, and exercise to keep fit.

What is the most important advice anyone has given you?

First, knowledge is power. Second, always think before you act.

What is the most important advice you'd like to give to other Etsy sellers?

As long as you are enjoying what you do, keep on doing it. Don't let financial gains define your creativity.

Check out the links below & feel free to comment!

Etsy Shop

Facebook

November Craft Shows & Happenings

2012-11-01T19:42:00.001-04:00

Upcoming events for the month of November! I will be at Formula Ink, Geekfest, & Itty Bitty Blazar!! See y'all around!

11/02/12 - South Florida DAY of the DEAD Celebration

Time - 3:30pm - until

Location - FAT Village ARTS District, NW 5th St. at NW 1st Ave

Details - Programming includes skeleton processional, family day, nocturnes, craft crypt, boneyard bandstand, community art, artwalk, ofrendas, and more! Most events are free!!

Links - http://www.dayofthedeadflorida.com/?page_id=2

11/03/12 - NOBE Art Walk

Time - 7pm-11pm

Location - A1A & North East 32nd, 33rd, 34th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Details - Open Art Studio exhibitions, live music, outdoor cafes, jewelry & craft vendors, fashion, etc. NAC GALLERY will be continuing their Fine Art Auctions.

Links - https://www.facebook.com/events/163180157153540/

11/10/12 - Wynwood Art Walk

*Every second Saturday each month

Time - around 7pm-11:00pm

Location - 36 Street to 20 Street and NE 2 Avenue to NW 6th Avenue.

Details - Community wide, free admission to all art galleries, local craft vendors, & food trucks!

Links - http://www.wynwoodartwalk.com/

11/10/12 - Pancakes & Booze Art Show

Time - 8pm - 2am

Location - Fusse' Studios 327 NE 59th Terrace, Miami, Florida 33137

Details - Over 75 artists exhibiting, all you can eat pancakes, live body painting, live art battle! $5 cover, 21+.

Links - https://www.facebook.com/events/293045347461409/

11/11/12 - Art Show, Car Show, & Food Trucks

Time - 10am - 4pm

Location - 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar

Details - Come out for something different. Guys like to go to car shows, but girls love to go shopping, this event is a win win for everyone!

11/11/12 - Formula Ink Tattoo Grand Opening

**I'll be vending here!

Time - 1pm-7pm

Location - 1218 NE 4th Ave. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Details - The FREE event is an Artist Bizarre to help celebrate the grand opening for Formula Ink Tattoo! Other small businesses inside the plaza will be open with their own specials going on as well!

Links - https://www.facebook.com/events/505845312766460/

11/18/12 - Downtown Open Market

*Monthly, on Sundays

Time - 10am-4pm

Location - Royal Palm Place, 308 S. Federal Hwy Boca Raton, Fl 33432

Details - Arts, crafts, & vintage goods. FREE admission & FREE parking!

Links - http://www.downtownopenmarket.com/boca.asp

11/18/12 - The Market at Memorial Hospital Miramar

*Weekly each Sunday, this date has special programming

Time - 9:00am - 2:30pm

Location - 1901 Southwest 172 Avenue, Miramar, FL

Details - FREE Admission & Parking. Full of local produce & organic products. Harvest market, pumpkin & apple pie baking contest, and Shrek is coming!

11/18/12 - GeekFest Florida

**I'll be vending here!

Time - 10am-7pm

Location - FAU Grand Palm Room, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431

Details - Expo of all things geek like Comics, Games, Collectables, Anime, Sci Fi, DVDs/Movies/TV, Tech Gadgets, Cosplay, Art, Toys, Sports & Non Sports Cards, Star Wars, Star Trek, Apparel, Posters and more !!!

Links - http://www.geekfestflorida.com/

11/24/12 F.A.T. Village ArtWalk

*Last Saturday of each month

Time - 7pm - 11pm

Location - west of Andrews Ave, east of the railroad tracks, and bordered on the south by NW 4th Ave. and the north by NW 6th Ave

Details - Day of the Dead Event Preview

Links - http://fatvillage.com/main/?page_id=34

11/24/12 - Itty Bitty Blazar Gala Part IV

**I'll be vending here!

Time - 7pm-12:00am

Location - IWAN gallery, 810 NE 4 Ave, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Details - Fashion, art revue, and musical experience. $10 cover, free drinks all night! Attire is Avant-garde / Glam / Rock & Roll.

Links - https://www.facebook.com/events/504361902926948/?fref=ts

11/27/12 - Brickell Art Walk

*Last Tuesday of each month

Time - 5pm - 10:30pm

Location - Mary Brickell Villege Area

Details - Venues will not only offer exceptional and iconic contemporary artists, but also some of the most avant garde curators

Links - http://www.brickellartwalk.com/

Check back often!! This list is regularly updated!!

Pinterest Love: DIY Nail Polish

2012-10-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

I'd like to share this cool DIY idea for nail polish! I got lost in Etsy the other day and discovered the world of Franken Polish!

Pinned from Delightedmomma.com, this simple do it yourself project won't take more than 15 minutes. All you need is clear nail polish and some old eyeshadow!

Want to repin it? Click here

You can also find me on Pinterest, here!

I gave this one a try, but I think I over did it with the eyeshadow. I made a bottle of cheap glittery gold polish into a lively lime colored one, but it doesn't hold well. Chipped within hours. :(

If you want more info about making franken polish or nail polish from scratch check out this informative link from the Crafty Ninja, DIY Franken Polish